Copyright 1995 - . All rights reserved. The content (including but not limited to text, photo, multimedia information, etc) published in this site belongs to China Daily Information Co (CDIC). Without written authorization from CDIC, such content shall not be republished or used in any form. Note: Browsers with 1024*768 or higher resolution are suggested for this site.

0108263 License for publishing multimedia online



Registration Number: 130349 Registration Number: 130349
China's high-tech manufacturing sector reports robust profit growth from Jan-Oct

08:57, November 28, 2025 By Zhang Yiyi ( Global Times

China's industrial enterprises posted steady profit growth in the first 10 months of 2025, with profits in the high-tech manufacturing sector rising by 8.0 percent year-on-year, underscoring the continued upgrade of traditional industries and the strengthening momentum of industrial transformation, according to data released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) on Thursday.

Profits in China's high-tech manufacturing sector maintained solid growth momentum in the first 10 months of the year, rising 8.0 percent year-on-year, which was 6.1 percentage points faster than the overall industrial growth rate, NBS data showed.

A breakdown of the data points to strong performances in several segments. Profits in smart electronics surged, with unmanned aerial vehicle manufacturing posting a 116.1 percent increase and intelligent in-vehicle equipment recording a 114.9 percent rise.

The semiconductor sector also saw rapid improvement, with integrated circuit manufacturing profits up 89.2 percent, electronic materials rising 86.0 percent, and discrete devices increasing 17.4 percent. Precision instrument manufacturing continued to benefit from high-quality development, as profits in optical instruments grew 38.2 percent and those in specialized instruments rose 14.1 percent, the data showed.

China's traditional industries also showed clear gains from ongoing upgrades. In the first 10 months of 2025, several segments posted profit growth rates far above their sectoral averages.

In raw materials, profits in graphite and carbon products jumped 77.7 percent, biochemical and microbial pesticides rose 73.4 percent, and information-use chemical materials increased 19.1 percent  each far exceeding their broader industry averages by 76.7, 78.8 and 24.5 percentage points.

In chemical fibers, rubber and plastics, profits in bio-based chemical fiber manufacturing climbed 61.2 percent, while recycled rubber posted a 15.4 percent increase  outperforming their category averages by 58.3 and 20.4 percentage points.

China's industrial profits remained on a steady upward path in the first 10 months of 2025, rising 1.9 percent year-on-year and marking the third consecutive month since August of accelerating cumulative growth, the data showed.

Among major sectors, mining profits fell 27.8 percent, but the decline narrowed from the previous period, while manufacturing profits climbed 7.7 percent and profits in electricity, heating, gas and water utilities increased 9.5 percent. In October alone, profits dropped 5.5 percent year-on-year, partly due to a higher base last year and faster growth in financial expenses.

Industrial firms continued to record steady revenue growth, with operating income rising 1.8 percent year-on-year in the first 10 months. The sustained increase in revenue created good conditions for the ongoing recovery in corporate profitability, the data revealed.

Profits in China's equipment manufacturing sector grew 7.8 percent year-on-year in the first 10 months of 2025, contributing 2.8 percentage points to overall industrial profit growth. The sector accounted for 38.5 percent of total industrial profits, up 2.0 percentage points from a year earlier, indicating a continued improvement in the industrial profit structure.

Of the eight major categories within equipment manufacturing, seven reported year-on-year profit gains. Profits in the railway, shipbuilding and aerospace segment jumped 32.0 percent, while those in the electronics sector rose 12.8 percent. Electrical machinery manufacturing saw profits rise 7.0 percent. General equipment manufacturers posted a 6.2 percent increase. Special equipment producers recorded profit growth of 5.0 percent.

Bian Yongzu, a senior researcher at the China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations, told the Global Times that the strong profit growth in high-tech manufacturing underscores the steady rise of China's tech competitiveness. He noted that sustained policy support in finance and taxation policies significantly boosted corporate research and development, while Chinese universities and research institutes strengthened their talent and innovation capacity.

He said that China's extensive manufacturing base and integrated supply chain have sharply reduced production costs for high-tech products, giving Chinese firms a clear edge in global competition. This full-chain advantage, from research to large-scale production, has become a major driver of the sector's expansion.

Bian added that China's massive market provides abundant application scenarios, enabling new technologies to be deployed quickly, which helps accelerate the upgrading of traditional industries. The integration of high-tech innovation with the real economy is pushing manufacturing toward greater sophistication and intelligence.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Blog Archive: Dec 2025 (42) Nov 2025 (141) Oct 2025 (153) Sep 2025 (149) Aug 2025 (154) Jul 2025 (155) Jun 2025 (150) May 2025 (155) Apr 2025 (9) Mar 2025 (149) Feb 2025 (139) Jan 2025 (155) Dec 2024 (144) Nov 2024 (143) Oct 2024 (155) Sep 2024 (149) Aug 2024 (155) Jul 2024 (155) Jun 2024 (150) May 2024 (153) Apr 2024 (149) Mar 2024 (155) Feb 2024 (145) Jan 2024 (155) Dec 2023 (155) Nov 2023 (150) Oct 2023 (155) Sep 2023 (150) Aug 2023 (155) Jul 2023 (155) Jun 2023 (150) May 2023 (155) Apr 2023 (150) Mar 2023 (155) Feb 2023 (140) Jan 2023 (155) Dec 2022 (156) Nov 2022 (150) Oct 2022 (155) Sep 2022 (150) Aug 2022 (155) Jul 2022 (154) Jun 2022 (150) May 2022 (155) Apr 2022 (150) Mar 2022 (155) Feb 2022 (140) Jan 2022 (156) Dec 2021 (156) Nov 2021 (150) Oct 2021 (155) Sep 2021 (150) Aug 2021 (155) Jul 2021 (155) Jun 2021 (150) May 2021 (155) Apr 2021 (150) Mar 2021 (155) Feb 2021 (140) Jan 2021 (155) Dec 2020 (155) Nov 2020 (150) Oct 2020 (158) Sep 2020 (150) Aug 2020 (130) Jul 2020 (124) Jun 2020 (120) May 2020 (124) Apr 2020 (120) Mar 2020 (124) Feb 2020 (116) Jan 2020 (125) Dec 2019 (126) Nov 2019 (120) Oct 2019 (124) Sep 2019 (120) Aug 2019 (125) Jul 2019 (124) Jun 2019 (120) May 2019 (123) Apr 2019 (121) Mar 2019 (124) Feb 2019 (112) Jan 2019 (125) Dec 2018 (126) Nov 2018 (120) Oct 2018 (124) Sep 2018 (121) Aug 2018 (124) Jul 2018 (125) Jun 2018 (120) May 2018 (124) Apr 2018 (121) Mar 2018 (124) Feb 2018 (112) Jan 2018 (123) Dec 2017 (124) Nov 2017 (124) Oct 2017 (141) Sep 2017 (135) Aug 2017 (138) Jul 2017 (137) Jun 2017 (134) May 2017 (138) Apr 2017 (135) Mar 2017 (139) Feb 2017 (129) Jan 2017 (143) Dec 2016 (135) Nov 2016 (138) Oct 2016 (142) Sep 2016 (128) Aug 2016 (133) Jul 2016 (136) Jun 2016 (138) May 2016 (164) Apr 2016 (311) Mar 2016 (348) Feb 2016 (320) Jan 2016 (348) Dec 2015 (314) Nov 2015 (338) Oct 2015 (363) Sep 2015 (358) Aug 2015 (399) Jul 2015 (374) Jun 2015 (331) May 2015 (337) Apr 2015 (319) Mar 2015 (320) Feb 2015 (271) Jan 2015 (286) Dec 2014 (254) Nov 2014 (238) Oct 2014 (287) Sep 2014 (267) Aug 2014 (259) Jul 2014 (260) Jun 2014 (238) May 2014 (241) Apr 2014 (228) Mar 2014 (240) Feb 2014 (217) Jan 2014 (263) Dec 2013 (226) Nov 2013 (254) Oct 2013 (256) Sep 2013 (252) Aug 2013 (263) Jul 2013 (261) Jun 2013 (251) May 2013 (250) Apr 2013 (221) Mar 2013 (193) Feb 2013 (164) Jan 2013 (157) Dec 2012 (155) Nov 2012 (240) Oct 2012 (526) Sep 2012 (411) Aug 2012 (394) Jul 2012 (284) Jun 2012 (229) May 2012 (213) Apr 2012 (213) Mar 2012 (253) Feb 2012 (269) Jan 2012 (298) Dec 2011 (273) Nov 2011 (219) Oct 2011 (204) Sep 2011 (201) Aug 2011 (236) Jul 2011 (217) Jun 2011 (211) May 2011 (206) Apr 2011 (215) Mar 2011 (215) Feb 2011 (186) Jan 2011 (215) Dec 2010 (107) Nov 2010 (98) Oct 2010 (55)
Banned in the 1979 after the Islamic Revolution, opium cultivation could be legalised again by Irans parliament. Supporters argue it is necessary for critical drug production, while opponents accuse the government of seeking profits. The goal is to increase production from 450 tonnes per year to about 1,000 tonnes.

Tehran (AsiaNews)  Iran is considering legalising opium cultivation for the first time since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, a controversial move that officials say is necessary to ensure pharmaceutical supplies, but critics say it is merely profit-driven.

The administration led by President Masoud Pezeshkian is pushing to add provisions regarding domestic poppy cultivation and state-controlled opium distribution to proposed legislation currently under consideration in Irans parliament (Majles).

The proposals would overturn Iran's 46-year ban on production and return the country to legal cultivation under international supervision.

The plan has sparked controversy among government agencies, raised doubts about the Islamic Republic's actual pharmaceutical needs, and exposed contradictions in officials' statements about what the country intends to grow.

Health Minister Mohammad Reza Zafarghandi launched the idea of legalising cultivation during a meeting of the Planning and Development Council in Kerman Province on 20 November. The minister urged members of the Majles to approve the necessary regulations, especially at a time of shortages of even essential medicines.

In our country, we have certain medicines without which we cannot function, and many of their raw materials used to come from Afghanistan and were processed in our factories. Now these raw materials no longer arrive, and we need a law that would allow us to cultivate opium, Zafarghandi said.

His statement followed similar comments made by Pezeshkian, who met with members of the Majles Legal and Judiciary Committee and officials from Irans Drug Control Headquarters (DCHQ) on 6 October to discuss amending the drug control law.

The president proposed a two-pronged approach that includes legal access to drugs, eliminating black-market demand, and intensifying crackdowns on illegal traffic and distribution.

The proposal marks a major shift in Iran's drug policy. The country banned opium cultivation in 1979 and has relied on drug imports ever since, as well as seizures, to supply its pharmaceutical industry.

The Majles Research Centre strongly opposes the proposal. In a published report, it questions the government's justifications and suggests hidden economic motives, accusing certain officials of inflating demand to justify expanding poppy cultivation.

According to the study, Iran's pharmaceutical companies have obtained an annual average of 450 to 460 tonnes of opium over the past decade. Government officials now claim the country needs 1,000 tonnes annually, more than double the previous requirement.

Complicating matters, several government agencies have provided conflicting information about the type of poppy the country intends to cultivate, further contributing to the confusion.

The Ministry of Health and its Food and Drugs division have openly supported opium cultivation and the removal of current legal obstacles.

The DCHQ insists that the government plans to grow a different variety, not the traditional poppy.

Afghanistan is not the world's only source of pharmaceutical opium, and many major drug-manufacturing countries do not grow poppies domestically.

At least 15 nations are permitted to grow poppies under the supervision of the International Narcotics Control Board, a United Nations body.

Irans neighbours Turkey and India both produce opium. Other licensed producers are Australia, France, Spain, Hungary, Czechia, Poland, Estonia, Romania, North Macedonia, and China.

Major pharmaceutical powers  including the United States, Germany, Japan, Switzerland, South Korea, Singapore, and Canada  have banned domestic cultivation and import pharmaceutical opium from countries with legal cultivation permits.

This international picture suggests that Afghanistan's unreliability alone may not make domestic cultivation necessary. Iran could potentially secure pharmaceutical opium from other licenced producers if its neighbour becomes an unreliable supplier, especially as production has been hampered since the Taliban's return to power in the summer of 2021.

Meanwhile, Iran has used strategic reserves to offset the reduction in seizures and imports in recent years, raising concerns about the sustainability of supplies.
Today's headlines: Floods continue to cause damage in Southeast Asia, and now Sri Lanka is also preparing for the arrival of Cyclone Ditwah; In Malaysia, the state of Sabah, the poorest in the country, is preparing for local elections; Hong Kong authorities have ended rescue operations, with 200 people still missing; Participants in an anti-Chinese demonstration arrested in Kazakhstan.

ISRAEL  SYRIA

The Israeli army carried out a raid on Beit Jinn, in the countryside around Damascus, killing at least 12 people. The town of Tal al-Ahmar, in the southern province of Quineitra, on the border with Israel, was also targeted. The Israeli army justified the operation as necessary to neutralise terrorists who had intensified attacks against Israeli civilians, without providing any evidence for these claims. At the same time, despite the ceasefire in Gaza, Israel today carried out multiple attacks on Khan Younis and Rafah inside the Strip, while in the West Bank it killed two unarmed Palestinians.

CLIMATE CHANGE

There are at least 90 deaths in Indonesia due to flooding. Southeast Asia has been hit by a series of cyclones in recent weeks, which have so far affected millions of people in Malaysia and Thailand. But the damage has also spread to Sri Lanka, where 56 people have been reported dead and at least 21 missing. The island is preparing to face Cyclone Ditwah, which is expected to move along the east coast today.

MALAYSIA

Local elections will be held tomorrow in the Malaysian state of Sabah. A report by Nikkei Asia says that voters are tired, distrustful and impatient for change. It is this sentiment that has turned the polls in the eastern state on the island of Borneo into a national indicator, especially for Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who is considering calling a general election next year, two years ahead of schedule. Sabah has a population of 3.4 million, about 10% of the nation, and is the poorest region in the country, with a poverty rate of 17.7% in 2024. It is also one of the most ethnically diverse states.

HONG KONG

Local authorities have announced the end of rescue operations at the Wang Fuk Court residential complex in the Tai Po district. The death toll has risen to 128, with 79 injured and 200 missing, making it one of the deadliest fires in the world in the last 15 years. So far, three people linked to the company that was carrying out the renovation work and where the fire appears to have started have been arrested. Thousands of Hong Kongers, according to Hong Kong Free Press, have mobilised to support the survivors.

PAKISTAN

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has asked the Pakistani government to hold a meeting with former Prime Minister and party leader Imran Khan, 78, who has been in prison since August 2023. However, the former prime minister has not seen his family or lawyers for three weeks, and no reason has been given for this. Khan is not even allowed to undergo medical examinations. The PTI spokesperson has expressed concern about the leader's health.

KAZAKHSTAN  CHINA

Participants in an anti-Chinese demonstration were arrested in Kazakhstan after burning the Chinese flag and a portrait of President Xi Jinping. all members of the unregistered Atazurt party, which defends the rights of Turanian peoples in the Chinese region of Xinjiang. They have been accused of acts of vandalism and inciting inter-ethnic hatred, for which 13 people have been placed in solitary confinement and face up to 10 years in prison.

RUSSIA

FSB agent Aleksandr Samofal, known to have been involved in attempts to poison opposition politicians Vladimir Kara-Murza and Aleksey Navalny, has been promoted to major general and appointed deputy head of the Moscow and Moscow Oblast services, according to reports by journalist Valeria Ratnikova in Dozd. who emigrated abroad following persecution by Samofal himself.
by Vladimir Rozanskij

Books and essays are among the tools traditionally used to oppose regimes. Sales of books on the difficult pages of the past are on the rise. Research into stories about dictatorships and the lives of ordinary people under them is very popular. Sales of stories about the crimes of autocrats have grown by 70%. However, historians and writers of utopian novels are now banned.

Moscow (AsiaNews) - In Russia, literature has traditionally been one of the main tools of opposition to dictatorships, from the Tsarist to the Soviet regimes, and now also in Putin's Russia, which, not surprisingly, is tightening its grip on censorship of all types of unpatriotic publications, both in print and digital formats.

Since the spring of 2022, Russians have been rereading stories about the crimes of Nazi Germany, life during the Third Reich and how the country rebuilt itself after the devastation of the Second World War, a scenario very similar to what is happening in Russia today.

Even this historical literature, which is apparently fully in line with the rhetoric of victory over today's Western Nazis, has become a form of criticism of the Kremlin's authoritarian and aggressive regime, and its dissemination is also viewed with suspicion, with only official versions approved by state bodies being allowed to be read.

One of the most sought-after texts since the mobilisation in the autumn of 2022 has been The Mobilised Nation by Nicholas Stargardt, an Australian historian at the University of Oxford, who studied the private correspondence of Germans at the time of Nazi mobilisation, seeking to understand how the war could be justified and how many reacted by considering the war an injustice, an act of ferocity and genocide. In fact, this book was soon banned in all bookshops and libraries in Russia.

As critic Boris Grozovskij observes on his Telegram channel, one of the foundations for understanding events is precisely the analogy at the historical level, which allows us to overcome the lack of information.

This approach is favoured by literature, which, in a context of indecision, confusion and growing censorship, allows us to compare different situations without going into the details of current events, taking on meanings beyond the official or apparent ones, without running too much risk of repression.

The mechanism of analogy, after all, is the basis of any interest and curiosity about history, seeking to understand the present through the past.

Since no two situations are identical and perfectly coincidental, the work of professional historians consists of identifying all the open questions, opening the reader's mind to new considerations, as political scientist Ivan Krastev writes in Foreign Policy.

Historical analogies can be risky or random, but they highlight not only similarities but also differences, becoming very useful tools for analysis and for imagining the political and social prospects of the future.

According to research by Natalia Vasilenok of Stanford University, Russia's leading book networks today, such as Citaj-Gorod and LiveLib, show continued growth in sales of books on the difficult pages of the past, which are impossible to censor in their entirety.

People are looking for stories about the many dictatorial regimes, about the lives of ordinary people under them, and the crimes of autocrats are one of the most read topics, accounting for 70% of sales. Restrictions on this literary sector have also begun in recent months, with assessments that discussing wars can discredit the Russian armed forces.

Historians and writers of utopian novels are now banned, such as Vladimir Sorokin, Russia's leading author today, but also foreign authors such as Michael Cunningham and James Baldwin, who are easily accused of LGBT propaganda for their stories about non-traditional aspects of life in today's and yesterday's societies.

Since April this year, the Russian Writers' Union has begun operating a very Soviet-style expert centre for historical re-enactment, to verify the compliance of each book with Russian legislation, with the official revival of censorship of words and thoughts.

The symbol of this new/old phase of enforced silence was the ban on the publication of Konstantin Pakhalyuk's book, In Search of Russian Antiquity, to prevent a look into the past from revealing the reality of today's Russia.
28 November 2025 15:25 (UTC+04:00)

Akbar Novruz Read more

A criminal case has been formally referred to court against an individual accused of terrorism and multiple particularly serious crimes committed in the city of Khankendi.

Azernews reports that the Press Service of the Prosecutor General's Office released detailed information on the case.

According to the statement, a terrorist act was carried out in Khankendi on September 14 of this year, involving an explosion, the use of firearms and ammunition, and an attempted intentional killing of more than two police officers. The Investigation Department of the Prosecutor Generals Office has completed the preliminary investigation launched under the relevant articles of the Criminal Code.

Investigators established reasonable suspicions that Karen Avanesyan, a Khankendi resident of Armenian origin born in 1967, committed a series of grave offenses.

According to the case materials, Avanesyan allegedly sought to violate public security, generate panic among civilians, and carry out acts of terrorism accompanied by explosions, loss of life, and other dangerous consequences. To this end, he acquired an AKMS automatic rifle, its full set of components, and a large quantity of hand grenades left behind by illegal armed groups that operated in Khankendi until September 2023. He then concealed the weapons in the city for an extended period.

On the morning of September 14, at around 07:00, Avanesyan reportedly left the social shelter where he resided, retrieved the hidden weapons, loaded them in preparation for firing, and by 09:00 took up a position inside an uninhabited house. There, he waited for the arrival of police officers.

Investigators say that after observing a large number of law enforcement personnel attempting to locate him, Avanesyan concluded that the conditions were ripe for a terrorist attack and the killing of multiple government officials. From his hiding place, he opened fire on police officers using the automatic weapon, then threw hand grenades at them, causing explosions.

As a result, three police officers sustained varying degrees of bodily injuries, were evacuated from the area, and received necessary medical treatment, which saved their lives.

Despite repeated warnings and lawful demands by authorities, Avanesyan reportedly refused to surrender. Police officers detained him using firearms in accordance with legal procedures, after which he was transported to a hospital and provided medical assistance.

Based on the evidence collected, Avanesyan was charged under multiple articles of the Criminal Code, including:

Articles 29,120.2.3; 29,120.2.4; 29,120.2.7; 29,120.2.11  attempted murder of two or more persons in connection with terrorism, committed in a generally dangerous manner and linked to the performance of official duties;

Article 214.2.3  terrorism using firearms and objects employed as weapons;

Article 228.1  illegal acquisition, storage, and transportation of firearms, their components, and ammunition;

Article 315  resistance and use of force against a representative of the authorities.

Upon the motion of the investigative body and the submission of the supervising prosecutor, the Khankendi City Court ordered a preventive measure of arrest against Avanesyan.

The preliminary investigation has now been completed, and the criminal case has been forwarded to the Ganja Court of Grave Crimes for judicial consideration.
28 November 2025 08:30 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

Azerbaijan is taking decisive steps to reduce its traditional reliance on oil and gas revenues, recognising economic diversification as a cornerstone of sustainable and resilient growth. Over the past decade, the government has implemented a comprehensive strategy to strengthen non-oil industries, stimulate exports, foster innovation, and create stable employment opportunities. Central to this effort is the Entrepreneurship Development Fund (EDF), which provides preferential loans and targeted financial support to enterprises in priority sectors of the non-oil economy, enabling them to expand production, adopt modern technologies, and compete in international markets.

The significance of the non-oil sector is also reflected in the attention given by the head of state to the inauguration of new industrial facilities. Recently, President Ilham Aliyev participated in the opening of the AZWOOL mineral stone wool plant, operated by the Matanat-A company in the Garadagh district of Baku, one of several visits underscoring the governments commitment to industrial diversification. When briefed, the President was informed that Matanat-A, which has been operating in the construction materials sector for 25 years, employs approximately 1,000 people across its enterprises. This highlights a key principle of Azerbaijans economic policy: sustainable growth and the creation of permanent jobs are essential components of a diversified, resilient economy.

Total project investment amounts to 43 million manats, of which 10 million manats were provided as a preferential loan by the Fund. The EDF plays a pivotal role in stimulating investment in Azerbaijans non-oil economy. Its mission encompasses financing the creation of new production facilities, processing and infrastructure enterprises, and innovative businesses, particularly those focused on export-oriented or import-substituting products. By providing soft loans, equipment financing, and guarantee-interest subsidy mechanisms, the Fund ensures that private sector initiatives align with national economic goals.

In 2024, the Fund successfully implemented its projected allocation of 200 million manats for soft loans and exceeded expectations by providing 248.1 million manats to finance 5,722 investment projects with a total value of 481.6 million manats. These projects created 4,334 new jobs, demonstrating the direct link between preferential financing and employment growth in non-oil sectors.

The EDF strategically distributes loans across sectors that have high potential to diversify the economy and expand exports. Agricultural production received the largest share of loans132.2 million manatsreflecting the sectors role in both domestic food security and export potential. Meanwhile, financing for the production and processing of industrial products, including agricultural goods, rose by 28.9% compared to 2023, signaling a deliberate push to strengthen manufacturing, processing, and industrial capacities.

In addition to agriculture and industry, the Fund supports a wide range of non-oil sectors, including green financing, digital development and innovation, tourism, medicine, education, logistics, aquaculture, and services. This broad approach ensures that economic growth is inclusive, technology-driven, and aligned with the countrys long-term development strategy.

One of the key outcomes of the Funds interventions is employment generation. By financing new enterprises and expansions, the Fund directly contributes to the creation of permanent jobs. The 2024 investment cycle alone demonstrates how financial support translates into tangible socio-economic benefits, improving livelihoods and stimulating regional development.

Beyond job creation, the EDF facilitates private sector participation in the economy. By lowering financial barriers and providing access to concessional credit, the Fund encourages entrepreneurs to invest in non-oil production, adopt modern technologies, and expand export-oriented operations. This approach strengthens the private sector as a driver of innovation, productivity, and economic resilience.

A significant focus of the Fund is on boosting the international competitiveness of Azerbaijani products. Enterprises supported by preferential loans are better positioned to meet international quality standards, expand production capacity, and access foreign markets. This strategy aligns with initiatives such as the Made in Azerbaijan brand, which promotes Azerbaijani non-oil products abroad through exhibitions, marketing campaigns, and state-supported retail channels.

By linking financial support to export-oriented growth, the Fund contributes directly to reducing Azerbaijans reliance on oil exports, increasing foreign exchange earnings, and integrating the country more deeply into global supply chains.

The Entrepreneurship Development Fund exemplifies how targeted financial policy can catalyze structural transformation in a resource-dependent economy. Preferential financing encourages entrepreneurship, accelerates industrialization, and stimulates the production of innovative, high-quality goods. By focusing on export-oriented and import-substituting enterprises, the Fund ensures that economic growth is both sustainable and globally competitive.

Moreover, the Funds approach aligns with broader government priorities, including job creation, regional development, technology adoption, and environmental sustainability. This integrated strategy demonstrates that financial support is not just about lending; it is about building the foundations of a diversified, resilient, and knowledge-driven economy.

Azerbaijans non-oil sector is entering a phase of accelerated growth, driven by strategic public-private collaboration and the targeted support of the Entrepreneurship Development Fund. Through concessional loans, investment promotion measures, and sector-specific programs, the Fund enables enterprises to expand production, enhance export competitiveness, and create jobs. These efforts are transforming the economic landscape, reducing the countrys dependency on oil, and positioning Azerbaijan as a competitive player in global markets. The EDFs role underscores the importance of smart financial intervention in fostering sustainable economic diversification and long-term prosperity.
28 November 2025 13:20 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

The employment rate in Azerbaijans liberated territories exceeds 92%, Sadig Aliyev, Chairman of the State Employment Agency (SEA), told journalists, Azernews reports.

He explained that under the Great Return program, employment opportunities for residents in these areas are assessed before resettlement.

According to Aliyev, the SEA has been implementing its activities in the liberated territories under the motto Employment Before Resettlement. Residents employment potential is evaluated first, including their professional skills, after which information about vacancies with employers in the liberated areas is collected. Based on these assessments, steps are taken to ensure their employment after resettlement.
28 November 2025 16:02 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

A delegation led by Taleh Kazimov, Chairman of the Central Bank of Azerbaijan, held a meeting with Li Yunze, Minister and head of the National Financial Regulatory Administration of the Peoples Republic of China, during an official business visit to China, Azernews reports citing the Central Bank of Azerbaijan (CBA).

The meeting featured an in-depth exchange of views on recent developments and ongoing reforms in both countries economies. Discussions focused on trends in the banking and insurance sectors, the concept of risk-based supervision, the enhancement of regulatory technologies, and the application of artificial intelligence-based solutions in regulatory processes. Experiences regarding new approaches and innovative solutions in the insurance sector were also shared.

The parties explored opportunities to expand cooperation between Azerbaijan and Chinas financial regulatory bodies. Prospects for strengthening interaction between the banking and insurance sectors were discussed, with both sides emphasizing their interest in advancing this collaboration.
28 November 2025 17:02 (UTC+04:00)

Full digital access to all news for 1 year

Full digital access to all news for 6 months

Full digital access to all news for 3 months

Full digital access to all news for 1 month

Find the plan that suits you best.

Analysts note that the combination of higher volume and marginally lower prices suggests stronger trade efficiency and growing demand in Azerbaijans passenger vehicle sector.

Here we are to serve you with news right now. It does not cost much, but worth your attention.

Choose to support open, independent, quality journalism and subscribe on a monthly basis.

By subscribing to our online newspaper, you can have full digital access to all news, analysis, and much more.

Subscribe

You can also follow AzerNEWS on Twitter @AzerNewsAz or Facebook @AzerNewsNewspaper

Thank you!
28 November 2025 18:34 (UTC+04:00)

Laman Ismayilova Read more

Chairman of the Board of the Icherisheher State Historical and Architectural Reserve Rufat Mahmud has participated in the international event titled "International Symposium: A Century of National Palaces," which held in Istanbul, Turkiye, Azernews reports.

The symposium, which held significant importance in terms of discussing international experiences in the preservation of historical and cultural heritage, monument restoration, and museology, brought together leaders of palace museums and historical-cultural reserves from various countries, as well as scholars.

They delivered presentations on topics such as the management, restoration, sustainable development, musealization, and preservation of museum collections of heritage monuments.

During a session held as part of the event, Chairman Ruft Mahmud delivered a speech on the topic "From Preservation to Presentation: Turning Icherisheher's Monuments into Museums," providing information on the efforts and experiences related to the preservation, restoration, and musealization of monuments.

During his visit, Ruft Mahmud also met with Mustafa Tural, the head of the Istanbul Historical Areas Directorate, which is responsible for managing four historical monuments listed in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

During the meeting, they discussed the exchange of experiences in the management of heritage sites and explored possibilities for future collaboration.
28 November 2025 17:20 (UTC+04:00)

Laman Ismayilova Read more

A jubilee event dedicated to the 90th anniversary of People's Artist, Professor, State Prize Laureate, and holder of the "Shohrat" and "Istiqlal" Orders, eminent composer Vasif Adigozalov, has taken place at the Azerbaijan Composers' Union, Azernews reports.

During the event, President of the Azerbaijan Composers' Union, People's Artist, corresponding member of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences (ANAS), and Professor, Firangiz Alizadeh, discussed the creative legacy of Vasif Adigozalov, a worthy successor to the Gara Garayev school.

She stressed that his diverse body of work spans various musical genres, noting that his cantatas, oratorios, and the patriotic opera "Natavan" continue to stir deep emotions in listeners both within Azerbaijan and internationally. Firangiz Alizadeh also mentioned that Vasif Adigozalov's works are part of the "Eternal Signatures" collection, a project by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation. She added that it is gratifying to see the composer's magnificent pieces still being performed widely across the country's concert stages and incorporated into educational curricula.

The event featured presentations by musicologists, who explored different facets of Vasif Adigozalov's artistry.

The Union's Secretary, Dr Leyla Zohrabova, Associate Professor, delivered a talk on "The Reflection of National Music Traditions in Vasif Adigozalov's Symphonic Works."

Dr Imruz Afandiyeva, Honoured Art Worker and Professor, shared "Memories of Vasif Adigozeaov," while Professor Hajar Babayeva, Honoured Art Worker, spoke on "Vasif Adigozalov and Azerbaijani Literature." Dr Seadat Tahmirazgizi, Honoured Cultural Worker, discussed "Patriotism in Vasif Adigozalov's Music."

Vasif Adigozalov's son, People's Artist Yalchin Adigozalov, expressed his commitment to ensuring his father's works are diligently promoted throughout his own career in music. The event continued with a musical performance.

Under the direction of People's Artist Gulbac Imanova, the State Choir Capella performed fragments from Vasif Adigozalov's oratorios "Canaqqala  1915" and "Qarabag Shikastsi" (soloist: Gunel Asadova, concertmasters: Vafa Azizova, Elkhan Niftiyev).

The composer's Violin Concerto was performed by international competition laureates Lala Mukhtarova (violin) and Zuleykha Usubova (piano), while his "Three Preludes for Piano" were played by Honoured Artist Elnara Keberlinskaya. His celebrated works, the "Qrnfil" romance and the song "Lay-lay", were presented by international competition laureate Rvan Mustafazad (tar) and Sevinc Krimova (piano).

The event concluded with a video presentation of a segment from Vasif Adigozalov's "Qarabag Shikastsi" oratorio, performed by the Azerbaijan State Symphony Orchestra and the State Choir Capella, conducted by Yalchin Adigozalov.

Vasif Adigozalov was born on July 28, 1935, in Baku. He began his musical journey with early training in piano at a specialised music school. In 1953, he entered the Azerbaijan State Conservatory, where he studied composition, graduating in 1958, followed by a degree in piano in 1959.

During his student years, Vasif Adigozalov composed his first pieces, which were showcased at the first Congress of Composers of Azerbaijan in 1956. Between 1957 and 1959, he worked as the chief editor for the State Committee for Television and Radio Broadcasting of Azerbaijan.

From 1959 to 1960, he taught at the Baku Music College named after Asaf Zeynally, and later became the chief music editor at the Azerbaijan State Philharmonic from 1960 to 1961.

From 1962 to 1968, Vasif Adigozalov served as the responsible secretary of the Union of Composers of Azerbaijan, and between 1968 and 1978, he was the artistic director of the Azerbaijan State Song and Dance Ensemble. He also led the Baku Music College as its director from 1972 to 1983.

In 1972, Vasif Adigozalov began a long-standing association with the Baku Music Academy. As a teacher, associate professor, and later professor, he made significant contributions to the development of young musicians. From 1990 onward, he served as the first secretary of the Azerbaijan Composers' Union.

A key figure in Azerbaijani music, Vasif Adigozalov's compositions reflect the cultural and artistic pulse of his time. His work is recognised for blending contemporary styles with Azerbaijani musical traditions, especially the deep-rooted art of mugham.

His compositions span various genres, including symphonies, symphonic poems, concertos, oratorios, operas, and musical comedies, all of which earned him widespread acclaim. His pieces also contributed significantly to Azerbaijani film and theatre music.

Vasif Adigozalov played an instrumental role in the advancement of Azerbaijan's composer school. He was deeply committed to the training of professional musicians and to the activities of the Union of Composers of Azerbaijan. Known for his intellectual integrity, he consistently demonstrated a strong sense of civic responsibility in regard to the events shaping society.

His contributions to Azerbaijani music and culture have been highly praised. He was honored with many prestigious awards, including the "Glory" Order in 1995 and the "Istiglal" Order in 2005.

Vasif Adigozalov passed away on September 15, 2006, and was laid to rest in the Alley of Honor.
28 November 2025 10:37 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

The first-ever Future Professions Summit, organized by the State Employment Agency, has officially opened in Baku, Azernews reports.

The summit aims to support participants in preparing for the future world of work by fostering professional discussions on transformations in the labor market, emerging professions and skill requirements, as well as the impact of technology and innovation on business.

Key objectives of the summit include identifying and promoting future professions and skills, sharing new trends shaping the business landscape, strengthening cooperation among partners, and enabling professionals in the target audience to access more flexible, innovative, and competitive career solutions.

The event brings together 250 participants, including local and international career consultants, trainers, HR specialists, entrepreneurs, education experts, representatives of the public and private sectors, and development mentors.

It is worth noting that the summit was previously held on October 30 in Nakhchivan city under the motto Towards the Future.
28 November 2025 10:50 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

The 7th meeting of ministers and senior officials responsible for media and information within the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) is underway in Baku, Azernews reports.

The gathering brings together OTS Deputy Secretary-General Omer Kocaman; Executive Director of the Azerbaijan Media Development Agency Ahmed Ismayilov; Kazakhstans Deputy Minister of Culture and Information Kanat Iskakov; Kyrgyzstans Ambassador to Azerbaijan Maksat Mamytkanov; Deputy Head of the Public Relations Department of the Presidency of Turkiye Ferhat Pirincci; and Director of Uzbekistans Mass Media Content Production Center under the Presidential Administration Kobuljon Akhmedov.

Foreign Minister of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, an observer member of the Organization, Tahsin Ertugruloglu, is also taking part.

Addressing the event, Executive Director of the Azerbaijan Media Development Agency Ahmed Ismayilov noted that under the leadership of the President of Azerbaijan, the country places strong emphasis on advancing its media sector.

He highlighted key achievements, including the celebration of the 150th anniversary of the Azerbaijani national press and the recognition of numerous journalists for their contributions.

Ismayilov also emphasized the growing importance of the annual Shusha Media Forumheld with the participation of the President of Azerbaijan and attended actively by Turkic statesas well as the yearly Media Literacy program conducted each December, which he said plays a vital role in enhancing critical thinking and professional development among journalists and media specialists.

Ismayilov stressed that Azerbaijan views the OTS not only as an economic and political alliance but also as an essential platform for countering disinformation and hybrid information threats.

We are consistently working to safeguard our information sovereignty. By 2025, Azerbaijans cooperation with other Turkic states in the media sphere has deepened significantly, he added.
28 November 2025 11:03 (UTC+04:00)

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent a congratulatory letter to His Excellency Mr. Jose Ramos-Horta, President of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste.

Azernews presents the letter:

Dear Mr. President,

On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the proclamation of independence of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, I sincerely congratulate you and, through you, the entire friendly people of your country, and extend my sincerest wishes.

We are delighted by the new momentum in relations between Azerbaijan and Timor-Leste. We attach great importance to the development of our interstate relations, which are built on solid foundations and mutual respect, and to the further enrichment of our cooperation with new substance.

I am confident that we will continue our joint efforts to strengthen the friendly relations between Azerbaijan and Timor-Leste and to expand our cooperation both bilaterally and multilaterally.

On this remarkable day, I wish you robust health, happiness and every success in your endeavours, as well as lasting peace and prosperity to the friendly people of Timor-Leste.

Sincerely,

Ilham Aliyev

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

Baku, 25 November 2025"
28 November 2025 11:05 (UTC+04:00)

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent a congratulatory letter to His Excellency Mr. Bajram Begaj, President of the Republic of Albania.

Azernews presents the letter:

Dear Mr. President,

On my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan, I sincerely congratulate you and, through you, your entire people on the occasion of the national holiday of the Republic of Albania.

We attach great importance to relations between Azerbaijan and Albania. We are pleased with the steady development of our interstate ties, built on solid foundations, and with the expansion of our cooperation.

The intensity of our meetings and visits attests to the level of AzerbaijanAlbania friendship and the dynamic nature of our mutual relations. I fondly recall my visit to Tirana this May to participate in the 6th Summit of the European Political Community.

I am confident that we will continue our joint efforts to strengthen friendly relations between Azerbaijan and Albania and to further deepen mutually beneficial cooperation across a number of areas, in line with the will of our peoples.

On this joyous day, I wish you good health, happiness, and success in your endeavors, as well as lasting peace and prosperity to the friendly people of Albania.

Respectfully,

Ilham Aliyev

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

Baku, 25 November 2025".
28 November 2025 11:58 (UTC+04:00)

We attach great importance to relations between Azerbaijan and Albania. We are pleased with the steady development of our interstate ties, built on solid foundations, and with the expansion of our cooperation, said President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev in his congratulatory letter to President of Albania Bajram Begaj on the occasion of his countrys national holiday.

In his letter, President Ilham Aliyev further noted: The intensity of our meetings and visits attests to the level of AzerbaijanAlbania friendship and the dynamic nature of our mutual relations. I fondly recall my visit to Tirana this May to participate in the 6th Summit of the European Political Community.

I am confident that we will continue our joint efforts to strengthen friendly relations between Azerbaijan and Albania and to further deepen mutually beneficial cooperation across a number of areas, in line with the will of our peoples.
28 November 2025 17:05 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

Assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Head of the Foreign Policy Affairs Department of the Presidential Administration Hikmet Hajiyev has paid a visit to NATO Headquarters in Brussels.

As reported by Azernews, citing the Permanent Mission of Azerbaijan to NATO, which shared the information on its official account on X, Hajiyevs visit included a series of high-level meetings at the Alliances headquarters.

During the trip, Hajiyev met with ambassadors of the North Atlantic Council as well as NATO Assistant Secretary General for Political Affairs and Security Policy, Burcu San. The discussions revisited the recent visit of North Atlantic Council ambassadors to Azerbaijan and their meeting with President Ilham Aliyev.

The sides held extensive exchanges on a broad range of issues, including the successful partnership between Azerbaijan and NATO, prospects for further cooperation, and Azerbaijans contributions to the Alliance, particularly in strengthening Europes energy security. Regional security developments and progress on the Azerbaijan-Armenia peace agenda were also among the key topics addressed during the meetings.
The recent UN climate conference may have shown the beginning of the end for the UN's CO2 climate charade. The conference contained enough hints on things wrong with the UN climate agenda from destroying 100,000 trees in the Amazon rain forest to build a road to its site to the conference's "green energy" big battery bursting into flame by spontaneous combustion toward the end of the conference. (Those big lithium batteries are prone to do that as they have many places around the world.)

It was the content of the conference, however, that gave the plot away. In one sense, it was all about money, with Third World countries trying to use the climate charade as an excuse to shake down industrialized countries, and special interests with their hands out everywhere one looked. Then there was the "woke" overtone to just about everything.

Around the world, the climate crusade is getting a political pushback. In Europe, parties openly hostile to the UN / EU climate agenda are winning elections and topping polls. Farmers are in open revolt calling the climate agenda "Climate Communism." Longtime climate crusader and globalist leader Bill Gates has flipped on them and now says all the doom talk about climate is wrong. Swiss voters are expected to overwhelmingly reject a proposed "climate tax" in a referendum Sunday.

https://www.zerohedge.com/geopolitical/un-conference-proves-climate-agenda-all-about-money-and-woke-cultism

https://www.manhattancontrarian.com/blog/2025-11-25-a-few-markers-on-the-road-to-the-demise-of-the-climate-apocalypse
28 November 2025, AUCKLAND, NZ: Listed primary healthcare provider Green Cross Health, the Group behind Unichem, Life Pharmacy and The Doctors, reported Operating Revenue of $264.4m and Net Profit After Tax Attributable to Shareholders of $7.2m for the six months to 30 September 2025.

Result Summary

Operating Revenue of $264.4m, up 2%

Operating Profit (EBIT) of $17.5m, up 9%

Net Profit After Tax Attributable to Shareholders of $7.2m, up 27%

3.0cps interim dividend declared, to be paid on 18 December 2025.

Group Commentary

Green Cross Health Group CEO Rachael Newfield, commented, Over the last few months Green Cross Health has worked closely with Health New Zealand to satisfy the conditions required to become a Primary Health Organisation and is pleased to have received approval to commence operations from 1 July 2026.

While this years annual funding uplift for Medical is encouraging, Government investment in the pharmacy sector continues to be inadequate. Community pharmacy is well-poised to tackle many primary healthcare issues in New Zealand. The recent national measles outbreak saw Life and Unichem pharmacies respond with a public outreach campaign which drove a significant increase in measles vaccinations, demonstrating the sectors importance in facilitating preventative care. The Company calls for improved funding to pharmacies and expansion of pharmacists scope to better utilise this extensive network of skilled clinicians and alleviate pressure on other areas of the health system.

Pharmacy Division

Revenue in Pharmacy was flat at $181.7m, with Operating Profit down 14% to $7.7m as margin reduced due to a shift in sales mix from higher margin retail to lower margin dispensary. Unichem and Life pharmacies administered over 304,000 vaccinations, a 6% increase on the prior period. Same store prescriptions were in line with the prior period.

The expansion of the newly launched Care & Advice Health Hubs is progressing well, with the division on track to achieve 200 branded pharmacies by year end. Extension of clinical services continues, with Care & Advice Health Hub pharmacists now able to assess, treat and dispense specified medication for 14 conditions, including Wegovy weight loss medication with patient monitoring and follow-up.

The period was one of significant digital investment to support a seamless and engaging omnichannel customer experience. A new Unichem Pharmacy website was launched, allowing customers to browse stock availability online before visiting a store, click & collect products or opt for home delivery. In addition, an upgraded online booking system was developed to complement Care & Advice Health Hubs, giving customers a convenient way to connect with the extended services now available through their local Unichem or Life pharmacy. The creation of a new pharmacy app which is fully integrated with the booking system is well progressed. The app will feature a modern and user-friendly interface to facilitate medication management and service access, with launch planned for the second half of the year.

To grow within the beauty market, the Beauty by Life store concept expanded to two further locations in the period, Life Queensgate and Life Albany. The refreshed layout modernises the shopper experience and has enabled the division to secure new product brands for the Beauty by Life stores as well as the wider network. The enhanced offer is supplemented by beauty services to enrich customer experience and appeal to a broader market. Initial results are encouraging, outperforming the historical format, and roll-out plans for further stores are under review.

Medical Division

Medical Revenue for the period grew 6% to $82.7m, with Operating Profit up 42% to $11.6m. Enrolled patients within the portfolio of 65 medical centres totalled 414,500, the largest enrolled patient base of any general practice group in New Zealand.

The 1 July 2025 Government funding boost for general practices is a significant step forward in improving health outcomes for all patients. In addition, Health New Zealand granted approval to Green Cross Health to establish a new Primary Health Organisation which will begin operating on 1 July 2026. This is a pivotal milestone for the Company and will strengthen frontline services by optimising funding, eliminating administrative layers and enhancing the care provided to communities across New Zealand.

During the period, The Doctors Online GP service was selected as one of the providers for the roll-out of Health New Zealands new digital health service to improve timely access to healthcare. As a result, online consultation volumes more than doubled compared to the same period last year, with the service also assisting medical centres throughout the network to maintain timely appointment availability for patients. Given the national shortage of general practitioners, the team-based care model is being implemented across the network to enable patients to be connected with the most appropriate clinician, increasing access by reducing patient wait times and lifting operational efficiency.

Investment in technology, branding and site refurbishments also advanced in the period with the launch of a refreshed website designed to improve user experience including streamlining key functions such as new enrolments and appointment bookings. The Doctors app user base at 30 September 2025 totalled 148,000 registered users, an increase of 38,000 (+35%) since September 2024, booking an average of 23,000 appointments per month using the app. One practice rebranded to The Doctors during the period while another commenced a substantial refurbishment and expansion to double patient capacity in a larger, modernised clinical environment.

Outlook and Dividend

In the second half of the financial year the Company will be focused on preparing for the 1 July 2026 commencement of the newly approved Primary Health Organisation. Investment in technology, targeted refurbishments and cost management will be a priority in both divisions. In Pharmacy, investment in new products and extended services through the Care & Advice Health Hubs will continue, along with advocating for required funding. The Board is cautiously optimistic regarding the recovery of the New Zealand economy and the outlook for retail in 2026.

The Board has declared an interim dividend of 3.00 cents per share.

Comments from our readers

No comments yet

Add your comment:

Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. Comments from free email addresses such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc may not be approved. Anti-spam verification: Type the text you see in the image into the field below. You are asked to do this in order to verify that this enquiry is not being performed by an automated process.

Related News:

December 11th Morning Report

December 10th Morning Report

CDI APPOINTS JULIAN SMITH AS INDEPENDENT DIRECTOR

EROAD director Cameron Kinloch to step down in March 2026

RUA - Pro Rata Rights Offer

December 8th Morning Report

GEN - Dividend Reinvestment Plan Strike Price

Fletcher Building Update on Funding Facilities

December 5th Morning Report

Pacific Edge Names Simon Flood Chairman Designate


The issue relates to a model of Airbus jet which makes up more than half the global fleet

Northern Irelands airports could be facing disruption after Airbus issued an urgent recall notice that will affect thousands of planes.

In a statement, Airbus said a recent incident involving an A320-family aircraft had revealed intense solar radiation may corrupt data critical to the functioning of flight controls.

"Airbus acknowledges these recommendations will lead to operational disruptions to passengers and customers," the company said.

"We apologise for the inconvenience caused and will work closely with operators, while keeping safety as our number one and overriding priority.

As we are expecting this to result in some disruption, we will inform customers directly about any changes to our flying programme tomorrow

The issue is thought to affect more than half the models global fleet. Airbus data indicates there are around 11,300 A320-family aircraft in operation, including 6,440 of the core A320 model.

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) confirmed on Friday evening that the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) had issued a directive ordering some air carriers with A320s in their fleet to halt operations.

They warned affected aircraft will have to have software modified or remain on the ground from Sunday onwards until the software has been changed.

It is understood impacted A320 models at their base when the directive is issued will be required to stay there until software modification is applied, with National Air Traffic Services (NATS) raising concerns over congestion at airports.

In most cases, the update is expected to take around two hours, but with tight scheduling for many aircraft, disruption is likely. Short notice cancellations could be a possibility over the weekend.

For about two-thirds of the affected jets, the recall will result in a relatively brief grounding as airlines revert to a previous software version, industry sources said.

But the scale of the operation is expected to cause significant disruption. Hundreds of jets may also have to have hardware changed, leading to weeks out of service.

Belfast International Airport

News Catch Up - Friday 28 November

The incident that triggered the action involved a JetBlue flight from Cancun, Mexico, to Newark, US on October 30, industry sources have said.

Flight 1230 made an emergency landing at Tampa, Florida, and several people were taken to hospital after a flight control problem and a sudden uncommanded drop in altitude.

No impact on flights is expected at Belfast International Airport on Friday, but a spokesperson said the issues are being monitored.

"This situation is fast moving and is likely to change over the coming hours, they added.

"Any passengers due to travel tomorrow (Saturday November 29) should check with their airline for the latest flight information.

"We will endeavour to keep passengers updated via our social channels as we get more information.

Giancarlo Buono, Director of Aviation Safety at the UK Civil Aviation Authority, said the organisation had been made aware of the issue.

"We appreciate the disruption this may cause to some people flying over the coming days, he said,

Passengers should check with their airline whether their flights are affected. Airlines have a duty of care to look after passengers when a flight is delayed.

National Air Traffic Services (NATS) has confirmed it is aware of the CAAs announcement.

"We are working closely with airlines and airports to understand likely operational impact and support their planning. Passengers should check with their airline for the latest information on their flight, said a spokesperson.

easyJet said they had commenced the required software update on their aircraft, but advised passengers travelling on Saturday to continue to monitor their flights.

"Following the safety directive issued to airlines operating A320 family aircraft, we have commenced and already completed the software update on many aircraft which require them and continue to work closely with the safety authorities, added a spokesperson.

We plan to operate our flying programme normally on Saturday and ask that customers travelling continue to monitor their flights on flight tracker.

Safety is our highest priority and easyJet will fully comply with the directive and always operates its fleet of aircraft in strict compliance with manufacturers guidelines.

Jet2.com said its flying programme would be unaffected by the recall.

"In line with other operators of Airbus aircraft, we are installing software updates on a very small number of aircraft in our fleet. We can confirm there will be no impact to our flying programme as a result, said a spokesperson.

A spokesperson for Aer Lingus said a limited number of its fleet were affected.

"Following an alert raised by Airbus, a directive has been issued to airlines advising them of a requirement to update instances of a particular version of software installed on some of the global Airbus A320 family of aircraft, they said.

"In Aer Lingus case a limited number of aircraft are impacted, and the airline is taking immediate steps to complete the required software installation. As a result, Aer Lingus expects that there will be no significant operational disruption.

Belfast City Airport has been approached for comment.
Northern Ireland

Cultural blind spot at MI5 over Troubles legacy, says Boutcher, while also hitting out at devious ammunition theft
Kneecap announce legal action after Canadian government distances itself from MPs ban on rap trio

The band have branded one Canadian MPs comments as untrue and malicious

Kneecap members following a court appearance in London

Liam Tunney Fri 28 Nov 2025 at 21:34







Belfast rap trio Kneecap have said they are to take legal action against a Canadian MP after his government distanced themselves from comments claiming the band were barred from entering the country.
The Education Minister has reminded all schools to carry on teaching religious education based on the Holy Scriptures, advising them that a judgement from the Supreme Court in London last week has not struck down existing legislation.

In a letter to principals, Paul Givan admitted his department will look to reform the RE syllabus in the wake of the judgement.

The Supreme Court ruled that RE had not been taught in an objective, critical and pluralist manner, that collective worship was similarly not conveyed in such a way in schools and that the Christian-focused RE taught in Northern Ireland was unlawful.

The Minister has now informed schools that while the judgement was complex, it remained the case that schools have a legal requirement to hold collective worship like assemblies each day.

Last Wednesdays ruling by the UK Supreme Court had brought a long running case taken by a anonymous father and daughter from Belfast to a close.

In 2022, the High Court in Belfast had ruled that the Christian-based RE taught at primary schools in Northern Ireland was unlawful. However, the Department of Education then won an appeal against that judgement.

But last week the Supreme Court unanimously allowed the father and daughters subsequent appeal and dismissed the Departments cross-appeal.

A spokesperson for The Department of Education had said: We will carefully consider the complex judgement and its implications and will provide advice to schools in the near future.

And Mr Givan has now informed schools that the Department has requested further legal advice to understand the full implications of the judgment.

Informing schools they are expected to continue following the legislation by teaching religious education based on the Holy Scriptures, he added that the area of collective worship requires further consideration.

While parents have the right to withdraw their child, the Supreme Court found that current arrangements did not meet legal requirements, he said.

The court had also ruled that exercising the right to withdraw a child from RE lessons and worship could place an undue burden on an objecting parent.

The judges stressed the case was not about secularism in education and insisted that no-one was suggesting that RE should not be provided in schools.

Mr Givan added that judgement recognised that Christianity is the main religion in Northern Ireland, and the greater part of RE would still focus on knowledge of Christianity.

He said that schools can expect further comprehensive and legally sound guidance soon, but that the department had now requested further legal advice to understand the full implications of the judgment.

While unionist politicians, notably from the DUP and TUV, had expressed disappointment at the Supreme Court ruling, Reverend Andrew Forster, the Bishop of Derry and Raphoe and Chair of the Transferor Representatives Council (TRC) said his organisation will take some time to consider the ruling.

The judgement brings a long court process to a conclusion and once the ruling is considered, he added.

We hope it will provide clarity and direction in respect of both the teaching of religious education and collective worship in schools.

The leader of Northern Irelands humanists, Boyd Sleator said the ruling provided a great opportunity for the Department of Education to revisit and re-write the curriculum, while Bishop Donal McKeown, from the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools said: Northern Ireland has changed a lot since the last core curriculum was put together. This is an opportunity for all of us to be involved in renewing the RE curriculum to enable us to create a healthy, forward-looking society.

TUV leader Jim Allister had called the verdict deeply disturbing and an affront not only to teachers and parents but to the Christian foundations upon which our education system has long rested,

He said the court ruling was another insidious elevation of rights of non-Christian parents over those of Christian parents.

Mr Allister also urged the Education Minister to protect Christian values in our schools and he was joined in criticising the judgement by DUP deputy leader Michelle McIlveen, a former Education Minister, who said the ruling was deeply disappointing, and would concern many parents, governors, teachers and faith communities for whom the ethos is so important.

David Smyth, Head of Evangelical Alliance NI, though, added that: This is not suggesting that religious education should not be provided in schools in Northern Ireland. Nor is this the end of Christian collective worship in schools

Schools will continue to teach about Christianity but may be required to do so in a more objective, critical and pluralistic manner. This is not a moment for fear.

In the Assembly earlier this week the Minister told MLAs: We have parents contacting schools demanding that Nativity plays are cancelled. Not just in light of this Supreme Court judgment but years before this has happened... I can give an absolute, categorical answer: Nativity plays can continue to take place within our schools.

Education Minister Paul Givan at his office in Parliament Buildings at Stormont.

News Catch Up - Friday 28 November

Mr Givan added that school principals had contacted his department seeking advice on the issue, which he has now provided, pending the further exploration of legal implications.
A second man appeared in court this morning in relation to the incident

Deputy Chief Constable Bobby Singleton briefs the media on the attempted murder of police officers in Derry

A 21-year-old man has been charged with the attempted murder of a police officer in Londonderry.

The man has also been charged with a number of other offences, including wounding with intent to do grievous bodily harm, assault on police and possession of an offensive weapon with intent to commit an indictable offence.

He will appear at Dungannon Magistrates Court on Saturday November 29.

As is usual procedure, all charges will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service.

It follows an incident during which two police officers were allegedly stabbed inside a house in the Collon Lane area of Derry on Thursday morning.

Two police officers were stabbed during the incident (Inset the knife recovered)

A second man  20-year-old Connlan Boyle, a cleaner from Roskeen Park in the Hazelbank area of the city  appeared before Derry Magistrates Court on Friday morning charged in connection to the alleged incident.

Boyle has been charged with assaulting three police officers and with twice assaulting a police-designated detention officer following his arrest.

Hes further charged with possessing a quantity of cannabis found in the Collon Lane house where he was detained.

A police officer told Deputy District Judge Sean OHare that the defendant, who has 16 previous convictions, was currently under seven suspended sentences for previous violent assaults against police officers and was also on probation for breaching previously imposed court bail conditions.

The defendant was remanded in custody until December 10.

There was widespread condemnation over the incident which has been described as a brutal and barbaric attack.

Police confirmed one officer was stabbed in the leg and was taken to hospital for treatment, while the other officer was stabbed in the chest but was wearing equipment which protected them.

Northern Irelands First Minister Michelle ONeill described the attack as utterly reprehensible and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said it was appalling.

Elaine McCormill from the Police Federation said: I think it is shocking we stand here time and again calling out on the criminal behaviour and attacks on our officers when they are trying to do their job."
Ronan OGara touted for All Blacks role as former Ireland fly-half is handed two-match ban
Graffiti threatening workers at the site of the Boyne Bridge in October 2024 (Pacemaker)

The Palestine flag will not be flown from Belfast City Hall on Saturday to mark the UN International Day of Solidarity with the People of Palestine

There are fears that Christmas shoppers and festive revellers could face disruption this weekend due to a number of loyalist parades and a pro-Palestinian rally taking place in the city.

The Parades Commission has been notified of three separate demonstrations in the vicinity of City Hall on Saturday.

Graffiti threatening workers at the site of the Boyne Bridge in October 2024 (Pacemaker)

Two loyalist flute bands will take part in a separate parade organised by the 1642 Boyne Bridge Defenders Historical Group, which will leave from outside Sandy Row Orange Hall at around 12.30pm.

The procession will make its way through the city centre towards the front gates of City Hall, with arrival expected at 1.10pm, just five minutes before 2,000 pro-Palestinian activists set off from Donegall Street.

Activists taking part in the Ireland-Palestine Solidarity Campaign rally will make their way along Royal Avenue to Donegall Place before reaching City Hall.

A demonstration will also take place at Queens Square between 2.15pm and 2.45pm.

Ulster Unionist councillor Jim Rodgers said he is a proud democrat and believes in the right to protest.

However, he urged demonstrators to be mindful of the potential detrimental impact on traders and visitors to the city.

I would sincerely hope there is no trouble, but these things are very hard to predict, Mr Rodgers said.

It is unfortunate the way things have developed.

Pro-Palestine activists in Belfast last month (Pacemaker)

It is always better to sit around the table and talk to resolve our differences, especially in the run-up to Christmas when retailers are heavily dependent on things going well.

Some stores havent had a great time of late. People need to speak to each other instead of creating problems for traders and people out trying to enjoy themselves.

Its understood Belfast Christmas Market organisers are aware of the parades and have contingency plans in place. Access will be available via the side gates on Donegall Square West and East.

The PSNI confirmed it is aware of a number of planned protests at City Hall and advised the public to expect traffic disruption in the city centre between 11.30am and 3pm.

An appropriate and proportionate policing response will be provided, with officers on the ground before and during the events to ensure public safety and assist with traffic diversions and temporary road closures, a spokesperson added.

The Palestine flag will not be flown from Belfast City Hall on Saturday to mark the UN International Day of Solidarity with the People of Palestine

News Catch Up - Friday 28 November

It comes as Belfast City Council confirmed a Palestinian flag will not be flown from the civic building on Saturday.

The local authority agreed earlier this month to fly the emblem. However, unionist members opposed the move, prompting council chiefs to seek legal advice.

Council records show the call-in was considered by counsel to have merit on procedural grounds.

A special council meeting will take place on Monday, when members will be required to reconsider the decision to fly the flag for the United Nations International Day of Solidarity with the People of Palestine.

Separately, four pipe bands will take part in a family-friendly parade organised by the Ulster-Scots Agency including Campbell College Pipe Band, Mass Pipe Band, Major Sinclair Pipe Band and Northern Ireland Drum Major Group.

Around 300 people are expected to take part in the community event which is due to leave Gordon Street at 11.30am before circling City Hall and ending at Donegall Square South an hour later.
A man has been extradited from Spain to Northern Ireland to stand trial over offences involving sexual activity with a child.

Police confirmed the 45-year-old was extradited on Thursday over the alleged offences which occurred in the Ballymena area in August and October 2020.

The PSNI said the man is wanted for five offences and has been sought for arrest by police since 2021 after he did not answer bail.

PSNI Sergeant Davey from the International Policing Unit said: The male was initially arrested in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria on April 25th 2025 and on Thursday, 27th November completed the extradition proceedings with his successful return to Northern Ireland.

He is expected to appear before Coleraine Magistrates Court on Friday, 28th November.

This extradition demonstrates our commitment to tracking down fugitives wanted here in Northern Ireland.

In this case we worked closely with the UKs Joint International Crime Centre and Spains Policia Nacional to locate, arrest and extradite this suspect. Our message is clear to anyone who has left Northern Ireland to the consequences of their actions. We will relentlessly pursue those that are trying to delay or deny justice to victims of crime.

The man was extradited from Spain. Picture: Belfast Telegraph

News Catch Up - Thursday 27 November

The Police Service of Northern Ireland will continue to work with our national and international partners to make sure offenders are brought before the courts.
November 28, 2025: Ukraine has been seeking American Tomahawk cruise missiles. These 1.3 ton missiles are 5.56 meters long and have a 310 kg warhead containing 120 kg of high explosives. Top speed is 920 kilometers an hour and maximum range is classified but believed to be nearly 2,000 kilometers. Ukraine wants Tomahawks to attack Russian weapons factories that are too far from Ukraine to be hit with any current Ukrainian missiles. Two key targets are the Geran long range missile factory that is 1,500 kilometers from Ukraine and a ballistic missile plant. Both of these plants cover a large area that would require at least 150 Tomahawks to inflict enough damage to shut the plants down. Getting that many Tomahawks past Russian air defenses would be unlikely. That means the risks of completing the mission are high and not worth the cost of the Tomahawks, which is about $3 million each.

It is more likely that Ukraine could carry out these long range cruise missile attacks successfully using the Flamingo cruise missile. Ukraine has been developing this missile, with a 3,000 kilometers range and a 1.1 ton warhead. It entered service this year in small numbers. Ukraine hopes to increase Flamingo production to about a hundred a month.

Meanwhile, Ukraine is doing quite well with several other similar missiles. Two years ago, Ukrainian warplanes using the 1.3-ton Storm Shadow cruise missiles were quite successful. Max range is 550 kilometers, and top speed is 1,100 kilometers an hour. There is a 450 kg high explosive warhead and multiple guidance systems, including GPS, INS/Inertial Navigation System and terrain recognition. GPS can be jammed but the other two systems cannot. The missile has stealth features but is not invisible to radars. Storm Shadow is vulnerable to air defense systems. The Russians are familiar with Storm Shadow because it has been in service since 2003 and used since 2011 in Libya, Iraq, Syria Yemen and now Ukraine. Britain and France are sending more missiles like Storm Shadow and Scalp, but not enough to do decisive damage to Russian weapons plants and economic targets.

Since Ukraine is already producing nearly 80 percent of the weapons it uses, getting behind the Flamingo project, or something similar, may be the best way forward. The Ukrainians know what they need and are able to build these weapons quickly and in large quantities. Defending their country is important to Ukrainian weapons manufacturers. Nations financing the Ukrainian war effort might be most effective in providing Ukraine enough money to develop and build their own weapons.

Russia also has Kh-101 cruise missiles that are like the Tomahawk. Over a thousand Kh-101s have been used against Ukraine. Components for these missiles come from 70 different manufacturers, many of them within range of current Ukrainian drones and missiles. Ukraine wants the United States and NATO to increase the economic sanctions on these companies. Some of these Russian firms appear to have avoided the impact of the sanctions. Ukraine wants the sanctions to be fine-tuned to do the most damage to the 70 firms making the Kh-101s available for attacks on Ukrainian targets.
A person has been taken to hospital after being rescued from a house fire in Co Down this morning.

The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service said the person was in the house in Irish Street in Downpatrick when crews were tasked to the incident.

Two appliances attended the scene at around 9.45am.

A NIFRS spokesperson said: Firefighters were called to reports of a fire at a mid-terrace flat on Irish Street, Downpatrick, Down.

"Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used 1 jet and 1 hose reel jet to extinguish the fire. Firefighters rescued 1 casualty from the property and treated them with first aid.

Stock photo.

News Catch Up - Friday 28 November

"The casualty was then transferred to the care of NIAS. Firefighters used a gas monitor to confirm levels were normal.

"The cause of the fire is believed to be accidental and the incident was dealt with by 10.48am.
The girl has been found (Niall Carson/PA)

A schoolgirl who was reported missing in north Belfast has been found.

Police had previously issued an appeal for the publics help in locating the girl.

The girl has been found (Niall Carson/PA)

News Catch Up - Thursday 27 November

It has since been confirmed she has been located safe and well.
Teen actor says you get blown up for being what you wanted to be in gripping seventies-set series

Mary-Kate Page at her own trailor on the set of Trespasses

Teenage Trespasses star Mary-Kate Page got a lesson in the Troubles on the hard-hitting drama.

The Belfast schoolgirl was immersed in the history of the conflict for the Channel 4 series about the fallout from an affair between a Catholic schoolteacher and a married Protestant solicitor.

The seventies-set drama stars Lola Petticrew and Tom Cullen as the couple in the grip of their dangerous liaison with Gillian Anderson as the teachers alcoholic mother.

Mary-Kate plays Mandy McGeown, whose family are targeted by loyalists because of their parents mixed marriage, who are offered support by teacher Cushla.

My mum grew up in the Troubles and she tells me all these stories and I knew a bit about it, says the young actor.

But some of the stories I couldnt believe thats how it was back in the day. You get blown up for being what you wanted to be.

When Mandys dad Seamie, played by Andrew Porter, is badly beaten up she says the make-up effects were shockingly realistic. In heart-breaking scenes the McGeown children, Davy, played by Daithi O hAragain and Conlaoch Gough-Cunninghams Tommy, have to feed their father and help him hold a cigarette.

The family are dealt another devastating blow when theyre burned out of their home in the drama, based on the novel by Louise Kennedy.

In the scenes with the daddy I knew it was just make-up and I had a lot of fun with Andy, says Mary-Kate.

Mary-Kate Page is hugged by Gillian Anderson

When theyre burned out that was hard. It was so intense and I had to keep crying until I didnt think there was another tear left in me.

We had to keep doing it over and over and even though its hard work its really enjoyable.

I found it funny when people were shouting things at me but this is what happened 50 years ago.

At just 13 Mary-Kate is already a veteran, with an acting career that started at four in acting company Brassneck Youth, run by her mum Alison McCrudden.

The young star has since notched up CBBC comedy Pickle Storm, about an alien family moving to earth, the Irish language voiceover for kids series Puffin Rock and hit play Project Children at the Lyric Theatre in Belfast. She also took part in the Connections festival in Londons National Theatre in June.

Mary-Kate Page on set with fellow Trespasses star Daithi O hAragain

With her lengthy CV she was able to overcome any nerves going onto the Trespasses set, and it helped that co-stars Lola and Gillian were so kind to their young co-star.

Say Nothing star Lola, who is non-binary and uses the they pronoun, gave Mary-Kate the courage to speak to director Dawn Shadforth about her role.

In one scene she suggested her character would have been crying and the production team agreed and changed her hair and make-up to fit her proposal.

There is a scene where Lola was talking to the director as if they had been there a million years. Lola was coming up with ideas and the director was taking them on board, and then I was able to talk to the director and give my own ideas.

Lola probably doesnt know this but they were a mentor. They were so professional coming on set and so inspirational.

Mary-Kate Page at her own trailor on the set of Trespasses

I had to put on a facade: Julian Simmons on working through grief

The young star also got a taste of the showbiz life.

I had my costumes and my trailer, which was one trailer away from Gillian Andersons, she says.

At the start I was thinking what am I doing here? but I was more excited than nervous.

Gillian was really lovely and she talked to me a lot about her air fryer.

It helps you see these are just normal people.

Bilingual Mary-Kate bonded with fellow Irish speaker Daithi between takes, while preparing to sit her Irish GCSE.

Mary-Kate Page at her trailor

She says the Trespasses premiere and seeing the trailer on TV brought home the scale of the drama, and its global reach.

It was just crazy when I saw myself on the trailer on Channel 4, and I had all my friends texting me.

Its great to spread this story to the world because the world probably doesnt know this happened, she says.
The impressive stag was attacked and beheaded (FingalCountyCouncil/PA)

The callous killing of an iconic stag which was found beheaded in Co Dublin has been condemned.

The headless body of the stag, which was part of the deer herd at Newbridge Demesne, Donabate, was found on Thursday morning, according to Fingal County Council.

In a statement, the council said the stag had been killed overnight by intruders who had broken into the park.

The discovery was made when staff went to feed the herd of Irish Red Deer, they said.

The stag, who was eight years old, was one of two in the herd.

Mayor of Fingal Tom OLeary described the incident as shocking.

I have visited this park area with my granddaughters who really enjoyed meeting the stag and deer, he said.

A wonderful animal to behold close up. Its truly shocking that someone would carry out this act.

I am appealing to anybody with information to contact the gardai or the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

It is illegal to kill deer without a licence and I hope that the perpetrators can be brought to justice.

Ivan Smith, foreman of Works at Newbridge House and Traditional Farm, added: We are absolutely shocked by this incident.

He was a lovely stag with a beautiful pair of antlers and was a big favourite with the public who walk through the park.

The council said the matter is currently being investigated by An Garda Siochana and the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

Anybody with information is asked to contact the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or email wildlifeenforcement@npws.gov.ie.
Enoch Burke was ordered to pay 15,000 euro in damages to a Co Westmeath School (Brian Lawless/PA)

Enoch Burkes salary is to be paid to Wilsons Hospital School as he still owes them 15,000 euro in damages, a court has ordered.

Mr Burke appeared before the High Court via video link from Mountjoy Prison where he has been since Tuesday, after Mr Justice Brian Cregan ordered him to be jailed for repeated and flagrant breaches of court orders on November 18.

Mr Burke and his family, who are evangelical Christians from Co Mayo, are embroiled in a lengthy legal row with Wilsons Hospital School, where Mr Burke formerly worked as a teacher.

The row stems from incidents at the Co Westmeath school over a request in 2022 from the then-principal that a student be addressed by a new name and pronoun.

Since then, Mr Burke has repeatedly trespassed on school property, breaching a court order.

The court heard that although Mr Burke has been dismissed from the school on the grounds of gross misconduct, he is still being paid a teachers salary from the Department of Education and Youth, pending an appeal before the Disciplinary Appeals Panel.

In August 2023, the school was awarded damages of 15,000 euro for trespass on their grounds but, on Friday, Mr Justice Cregan said Mr Burke had not paid a single euro of this judgment.

He granted the school a garnishee order, where a debtors salary is paid directly to the person owed, on the grounds Mr Burke owes a considerable debt to the school.

Mr Justice Cregan also said he was satisfied the court has the power to confiscate vehicles which Mr Burke used to access the school, describing his actions as flagrant breaches of the court order.

However, he said as Mr Burke is currently in prison it is not necessary to sequester these vehicles at this time, but said the measure could be considered again at a future date.

Enoch Burkes father Sean (left) and his brother Dr Isaac Burke outside the High Court in Dublin (Brian Lawless/PA)

The hearing at the Four Courts in Dublin was disrupted by Enoch Burkes father, Sean, and brother, Dr Isaac Burke, before it began.

Mr Burke was due to appear by video link, but technical difficulties meant his appearance was delayed.

As the delay continued, Dr Burke remonstrated with the judge saying that as Enoch Burke was not appearing in person, he had no advocate in court and no one to hand up documents.

Mr Justice Cregan told him he did not intend to allow him, or his father, to remain in court and asked them both to leave saying they had no right of audience.

Telling them: Every time you have appeared before me, you have disrupted the court.

Dr Burke began to shout that this was absolutely disgraceful, shocking and unjust behaviour.

Five uniformed gardai entered the court and two escorted Dr Burke out of the room.

Mr Burke senior then, too, began shouting, saying: Im a member of the public, I have a right to be here. This is totally unjust, this is totally wrong, this is absolutely wrong.

He, too, was led away from the court as Mr Justice Cregan rose and adjourned the hearing.

When the video link was establish Enoch Burke himself brought up the issue of his method of appearance, saying he was greatly disadvantaged by not appearing in person.

He accused the schools barrister Rosemary Mallon of underhand dealings, claiming he was originally supposed to appear in person but she had his production order changed so that he would appear by video link.

He claimed she had the ear of the court.

In response Ms Mallon said: No good deed goes unpunished.

She said she had requested Mr Burke be produced by video link out of fairness to him as there had been no production order for him and she was concerned he would not be produced.

Mr Burke claimed this was not true and said the court needs to be truthful to which Mr Justice Cregan responded: I will not take any lectures on truth-telling from you.

In his judgment, Mr Justice Cregan said Mr Burke would be released from prison if he promises not to trespass on the schools property again, saying: He does not have to accept transgenderism.

He does not have to stop protesting against transgenderism. He does not have to change his religious beliefs one iota.
A Syrian civil defence worker checks an armoured vehicle that was destroyed during an Israeli forces raid in the southern Syrian village of Beit Jin, Syria (Sana via AP)

Israeli forces raided a Syrian village and opened fire when they were confronted by residents, killing at least 13 people, Syrian officials said/

The Israeli attack on Friday was the deadliest since its troops seized a swathe of southern Syria a year ago.

Syrias Foreign Ministry called the attack a horrific massacre and said women and children were among those killed.

A Syrian civil defence worker checks a house that was destroyed during an Israeli forces raid in the southern Syrian village of Beit Jin (AP photo)

The Syrian state news agency Sana said Israeli forces entered the village of Beit Jin aiming to seize local men and opened heavy fire after being confronted by residents.

Dozens of families fled the area.

Israel said on Friday it conducted an operation to apprehend suspects from the Jamaa Islamiya militant group in Beit Jin who were planning IED and rocket attacks into Israel.

It said other militants opened fire at the troops, injuring six, and that troops returned fire, including bringing in air support.

It said the operation had concluded, all of the suspects were apprehended and a number of militants were killed.

A local official in the village, Walid Okasha, told The Associated Press that those killed were civilians.

Among the dead were a man, his wife, his two children and his brother as well as another man who had gotten married the day before.

Firas Daher, a Beit Jin resident, told the AP that troops moved in around 3am and were met by slight resistance, with light weapons.

A woman holds a sign during a protest against an Israeli raid in the southern Syrian village of Beit Jin, in Damascus (Ghaith Alsayed/AP)

Troops responded with drones and helicopters and fire from heavy machine guns.

Whenever anyone would move inside the village or any car would move, it would get hit. When we tried to take injured people to the hospital, they would hit the car carrying them, he said.

Since the fall of former Syrian president Bashar Assad in December 2024, Israeli forces have held a slice of southern Syria that was previously a UN-patrolled buffer zone under a 1974 disengagement agreement.

Troops have regularly carried out operations in villages and towns inside and outside the zone, including raids snatching people it says are suspected militants.

Israel has also launched hundreds of airstrikes on Syrian military sites and pushed for a demilitarised zone south of Damascus.

Israeli raids have several times been met by armed local residents.

In April, troops raided the town of Nawa, and when confronted by residents, the military carried out airstrikes in the town, killing nine people.

A month earlier, Israeli forces killed six people in the village of Koayiah in similar clashes during a raid.

Syrian civil defence workers check a house that was destroyed during an Israeli forces raid in the southern Syrian village of Beit Jin (AP photo)

In a previous raid on Beit Jin in June, Israeli forces seized several people who they said were Hamas members  a characterisation disputed by residents  and killed a man whose family said had a history of schizophrenia.

Israel says it seized the 400-square-kilometer (155-square-mile) demilitarised buffer zone in southern Syria in a pre-emptive move to prevent militants from moving into the area after Islamist insurgents toppled Assad.

It says the move is temporary, but critics accuse Israel of taking advantage of Syrias turmoil for a land grab.

Israel still controls the Golan Heights that it captured from Syria during the 1967 Mideast war and later annexed  a move not recognised by most of the international community.

Syrian officials have condemned the Israeli incursions as a violation of Syrias sovereignty.
Bennington, VT (05201)

Today

Scattered snow showers during the morning. Then partly to mostly cloudy this afternoon. High 24F. Winds W at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of snow 30%..

Tonight

A few snow showers around this evening, otherwise mostly cloudy. Low 13F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of snow 30%.
If you'd like to leave a comment (or a tip or a question) about this story with the editors, please email us

We also welcome letters to the editor for publication; you can do that by filling out our letters form and submitting it to the newsroom.
November 28, 2025: China has been deploying three meter and 2 .6 meter in diameter maritime buoys in the South China Sea. Similar buoys are showing up in the Yellow Sea near South Korea. The buoys contain instruments that measure and collect information on wind speed, direction, temperature, humidity, air pressure, atmospheric CO2 partial pressure, visibility, precipitation, waves, currents, seawater temperature, salinity, turbidity, chlorophyll, dissolved oxygen, seawater CO2 partial pressure, and GPS locations of where the data collected as well as when it was collected.

The placement of these buoys in the South China Sea appears to be part of the Chinese effort to assert ownership of the islands and reefs in areas that, according to international law, belong to the Philippines. Similar tactics in the South Korea's Yellow sea are part of a program to take control of the Yellow Sea using tactics and techniques that are working in the South China Sea. Buoys are a new tactic in the Chinese maritime conquest arsenal. China is patient and will continue to develop new tactics and techniques until they wear their opponents down.

China also uses AUVs/Autonomous Undersea Vehicles set loose to collect technical data on the water all the way from the surface to the sea bottom. This data collection is very useful in submarine operations. The AUVs are also called UUVs/Unmanned Underwater Vehicles and they have been getting cheaper, more capable, and more proliferating. These AUVs are silent, very small, and able to operate on their own for up to a year. The first models were two meters long, weighed 59 kgs and operated completely on their own for up to a year collecting valuable information about underwater conditions. What this AUV does is automatically move slowly at 30-70 kilometers a day underwater, collecting data on salinity and temperature and transmitting back via a satellite link every hour or so as the AUV briefly reaches the surface. This data improves the effectiveness of sonars used by friendly forces, making it easier to detect and track enemy submarines. Thats because the speed of sound travelling through water varies acco

The U.S. Navy currently has over 2,000 of these AUVs in service or on order and plans to keep increasing this robotic ASW fleet as long as they keep demonstrating they can do the job. UAVs replace many of the ocean survey ships long used for this kind of work. The survey ships take temperature and salinity readings from instruments deployed from the ship as well as a global network of several thousand research buoys. Unlike the survey ships, the AUVs can be deployed in areas where hostile subs are believed to be operating and be kept at it if needed. If successful in regular use, larger versions are planned, equipped with more sensors and longer duration.

China already has survey ships in service as well as a growing network of buoys. China will be deploying its autonomous AUVs throughout the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean, along with buoys. The AUVs and buoys will be serviced by the expanding Chinese fleet that is seen more frequently throughout the Pacific and Indian Oceans. China has already captured or stolen, if classified, a lot of data similar to what American systems collected over the decades and is using that to enhance its own databases.

For the moment this new network concentrates on the South China Sea but will also include land-based data processing and fusion combining data from different sensors in one of the Paracel Islands in the South China Sea, another in South Chinas Guangdong province and third somewhere in South Asia where it will share data with other nations. The data fusion centers will also include material collected by warships and commercial ships and aircraft. China also plans to make some of this data available to everyone as a contribution to safe operation of maritime commerce and fishing.
This is a subscriber exclusive story.

Subscribe today to access this story and all of our stories with 24/7 unlimited access.

Subscribe today. Cancel anytime.

Subscribe now for 99

Subscriber Sign In | Return Home
MILL RIVER  When the sale of Limestone Farm became a matter of record last week, county and area dairymen and others were not sure whether to offer the former owners congratulations or condolences.
People in town adored little Pietro. Everyone seemed to know him; large crowds would gather and toss nickels to him as he busked his way through downtown Pittsfield singing in his melodious, childish voice.

Born in a tiny village outside Verona, Italy, young Pietro Pellizzari arrived in the U.S. with his mother and three older siblings on the steamship Columbia in 1921. Their father Giuseppe had arrived in Pittsfield the year before, working in a Richmond iron mine until he got a job at the G.E. plant. It was a common story, in a city that had doubled in population in the past 20 years, most of it made up of immigrants. The family soon moved to a new 6 room place on Ventura Avenue. This was the dream of America.

Unfortunately, that dream had been rewritten specifically to exclude kids like Pietro.

The physicians describe the malady as psychosis  he had tantrums, according to Eagle coverage at the time. At times he acted strangely. But he was a genius in many ways, especially about music.

Certain articles describe Pietro as having sleeping sickness, the sudden neurological ailment that was perplexing the world medical community at the time, but by most accounts whatever Pietro was dealing with doesnt match much symptoms for sleeping sickness.

Perhaps today he would have had an IEP for autism or ADHD. It would be impossible for even a trained professional to diagnose retroactively from the limited information available.

Then, deficient and defective were the legal terms used in Pietros case.

As the 1907 Commissioner General of Immigration had said, the exclusion from this country of the morally, mentally, and physically deficient is the principal object to be accomplished by the immigration laws.

1907 saw Congress pass more stringent immigration law to anyone certified by an immigration official as being mentally or physically defective. Given the constant ethnic prejudices of the time, this was a net cast very widely. The subsequent immigration act of 1924 was even more steeped in bigotry and ableism.

By mid 1923, a state welfare official noted the apparent neurodivergence and took Pietro from his family on Ventura Ave., forcing him into the Foxboro state hospital.

Many people in Pittsfield spoke up for Pietro. All the faculty from his school wrote letters. Attorney (and later Judge) Charles Alberti worked tirelessly on the case at no cost, fighting the case from here to Boston. Knowing the rigidity of the law, he played for time, managing to postpone deportation proceedings for nearly two years. The longer Pietro remained in the country, the more Alberti intended to contend that it would be an extraordinary cruelty to deport him without his family, who could not afford to return with him. He had only an elderly grandmother back in Italy, and she was infirm.

As the situation is viewed here, deportation means that the lad will be shorn from his family and cast adrift, helpless on an unknown sea, summarized The Berkshire Eagle, in March 1925.

Public pressure even got Republican Congressman Allen Treadway involved, meeting with immigration officials in a bid to keep the boy here. Pittsfield donors pledged they would put up $10,000 in a fund for any care he might need in the future, to show that he would not be a public charge. Thats almost $200,000 in todays dollars.

Like Americans everywhere, though, they were helpless to get around the bigoted laws theyd supported out of fear. In mid April the final word came down from Edward Henning, Assistant Secretary of Labor under Calvin Coolidge: Pietro was to be deported without further delay. The ten year old was put on a boat alone back to Italy.

His family continued to live in Pittsfield for many years after. His siblings poured years of labor into the G.E., and Brother Palmi Pellizzari fought for this country at Iwo Jima. Theres no clear evidence whether they ever saw Pietro again, though; his fate after is a bit hazy. I could find a record for only one Pietro Pellizzari in Italy later with the right birth year; that man lived to 1999 and had at least one child. I hope it was him.

In the context of 1925 America, Pietro was deemed unfit to be naturalized into a country then deeply enthralled with eugenics and racial purity. The KKK was at its all-time historical peak in 1925, with millions of white protestants enrolled nationally. Madison Grants book, The Passing of the Great Race, on the genetic superiority of Nordic whites, was wildly popular. Even natural born white citizens of English/northern European descent, though, were losing their civil rights to expanding eugenics laws, if they were unlucky enough to find themselves designated deficient. State laws allowing for forced sterilization of people deemed feeble-minded had begun passing in 1907, and after the Supreme Court upheld it in Buck vs. Bell in 1927, the floodgate opened. By the early 1940s tens of thousands of Americans had been forcibly sterilized for all manner of perceived differences.

While Pietro was waiting for his fate to be decided and Congress was passing the ethnic immigration quotas that would eventually keep Anne Frank from escaping to the U.S., at that very same time historians say Landsberg prison's most infamous inmate was taking notes. Hitler was reading about the new U.S. immigration and anti-miscegenation laws, picking up concepts for what would become the Nuremberg laws a decade later. No one knew it then, but the same American eugenics-based policies that ripped Pietro from his family were helping inspire some of the legislative framework for the coming Holocaust in Germany.
My mother  was perfectly horrified, Annie Oakley once said, when I began shooting and tried to keep me in school, but I would run away and go quail shooting in the woods or trim my dresses with wreaths of wildflowers.

Born in 1860, Phoebe Ann Moses when she was 15 and living in Ohio learned to hit her targets using her fathers old Kentucky rifle. She supplied small game to a grocer who resold it to customers in Cincinnati. One hotel owner, learning of her ability, suggested she enter a shooting contest against the well-known marksman Frank E. Butler.

She did. And to the amazement of those watching, she hit 25 objects out of 25. Butler missed one. They fell in love and eventually the two married in 1876. Annie joined him on the show business circuit in 1882, taking the stage name Annie Oakley. Two years later, she met Sitting Bull, the Lakota leader who was then a prisoner of the federal government at Fort Yates.

He called her Little Sure Shot.

The contents of his pockets were often emptied into the hands of small, ragged little boys, she recalled, nor could he understand how so much wealth should go brushing by, unmindful of the poor.

The Butlers had joined Buffalo Bills Codys Wild West show in 1885, and she became the star attraction, Butler her manager. When they traveled to Europe she met Queen Victoria.

The impresario Cody had hunted buffalo, served with the Union forces and scouted for the Army during the Plains wars. He launched his traveling show in 1883.

It was during their 17 years with the show that the Butlers came to Pittsfield in 1895 for a show at the Pittsfield Fair Grounds. General admission was 50. Miss Annie Oakley, the Peerless Lady Wing Shot oohed and awed the audience. Buffalo Bills Cow-boy Band played. A herd of bison showed off in a pen. A U.S. Cavalry detachment marched down the street.

Same year, same show, North Adams. In the evening the grounds were brilliantly lighted by electricity, an electric plant being with the show. By this powerful lighted rifle shooting was as easy as by day, and the exhibition of glass ball breaking by Col. Cody, who did his work in the saddle with his horse on the run, and by Miss Annie Oakley and Johnny Baker [another marksman], were truly marvelous.

Annie and 20 Real Cuban Heroes and the hoard of 1,100 men and horses also showed off in North Adams in 1898.

In 1900 the Butlers returned to Pittsfield for a one-day parade and appearance featuring 600 men! 500 horses! and a re-enactment of Teddy Roosevelts charge up San Juan Hill. Annie starred along with Russian Cossacks, Mexican vaqueros, South American gauchos, Riffian Arabs and American Indians  The hero horsemen of two hemispheres, as an advertisement boasted in The Berkshire Eagle.

One Berkshire man, Ernest C. Stone, a Pittsfield electrician, in 1960 recalled to Berkshire Eagle reporter Arthur Myers witnessing Annies skills when he was growing up in Biddeford, Maine. His father was a traveling salesman and had gotten to know Buffalo Bill  who provided free tickets to the show, Stone said. It was in 1895.

Annie was a celebrity influencer of her day, endorsing NewBros Herpicide " the Original Remedy That Kills the Dandruff Germ." Displaying her big head of hair, she touted the product in advertisements in the North Adams Transcript and The Eagle in 1907. Travelling as I do continuously, I have been troubled a great deal with dandruff and falling hair, and until I tried Herpicide, I never found a remedy that was satisfactory, she was quoted.

Aim for the high mark and you will hit it, was the sharpshooters philosophy No, not the first time, not the second time and maybe not the third. But keep on aiming and keep on shooting for only practice will make you perfect. Finally youll hit the bulls-eye of success.

Annie suffered a serious back injury in a train accident in 1901, only a decade later coming back into the public with the Young Buffalo Show under the management of Frederick T. Cummins, aka Ka-Ko-To, as Sioux Chief Red Cloud called him. Cummins had formerly been advance agent for Barnum & Baileys Circus. The show arrived in Pittsfield in 28 train cars in 1912. Featured attractions now included Australian aboriginals  skilled with spears and boomerangs. There were Japanese acrobats, long-horned cattle from Iceland, and elephants and camels.

Among the features of the performances are the feats of marksmanship performed by Miss Annie Oakley, the champion rifle shot of the world, in a wonderful feat of breaking five balls thrown in the air at one time, The Eagle reported.

How could Nitta Thompson on her bridle-less, rearing horse Buyrnester, who walked across the Wahconah Park field on its rear legs, compete? Or Billy and Mario Waite, the Australians snapping 85-foot-long bullwhips?

Young Buffalo Jr., Rattlesnake Pete and Steve Crazysnake charmed the youngsters and the antics of Zeke Cortossel and his partner from White River Junction, Vt., amused with their antics eating bread from loaves held in their arms.

There were two local performers there  Yvonne Cologne of North Adams doing cowgirl stunts and Eddie Dempsey of Williamstown doing cowboy tricks.

The Butlers retired in 1913 to live in Maryland and later North Carolina. She helped recruit women volunteers during World War I. She was in the midst of a comeback when the couple were injured in an auto accident. They died within three weeks of each other in 1926.

Pittsfield is one of the many cities in which Annie Oakley gave exhibitions of her skill , The Eagle noted at her death.

But her legacy lived on as she was depicted in movies, a Broadway play, a television show and in comic books in decades to come.
DALTON  Dicken Crane wasnt at the Select Board meeting on Nov. 10 when the final parcel of the Bardin Property was awarded to Thomas and Esther Balardini, but when he found out the next day, he figured he was outbid.

But it turns out, he wasn't.

Crane submitted a $51,510 bid, more than $20,000 higher than the winning offer.

I was completely surprised, Crane said. That almost never happens.

The Bardin property, a 148-acre tract of farmland, came into the towns ownership in 2014 for nonpayment of taxes. The land is in four parcels, and the Balardinis own the three other parcels near the Windsor border.

The Balardinis bid $31,500 for the parcel  the second lowest of the four offers for the land. The minimum bid was $28,900, and a deposit of 10 percent was required.

Crane, who has run Holiday Brook Farm since 1991, is planning to file an appeal to the Attorney Generals Office Bid Unit.

The appeal, he said, represents residents and taxpayers who are missing out on $20,000 because Select Board members opted not to accept the highest bid.

I think the Select Board has a fiduciary responsibility  to make a decision that is the best for everyone in town, Crane said at a Select Board meeting on Monday.

Select Board member John Boyle said choosing the Balardinis' bid was in the best interest of the town.

Select Board Chair Robert Bishop said the town is moving forward with the Balardinis and that they are still in the process of completing a purchase agreement.

At the Monday night meeting, Crane spoke during the public address portion, voicing his displeasure with their decision. Crane mentioned how he is an abutter of the property and urged the Board to follow Massachusetts law regarding the sale of properties.

The law states that except as otherwise provided by law, any sale of real property shall be awarded, after advertisement for bids, to the bidder who is the highest responsible bidder. Crane pointed out that the law also includes properties that are determined to have a fair market value of $50,000.

Crane is alleging that because the assessed value of the property was below $50,000, Boyle felt it was exempt from the law. With two bids over $50,000, Crane is claiming that the fair market value is over $50,000; thus it would apply to the law, and the property should be awarded to the highest bidder.

After the Select Board meeting on Monday, Boyle referenced the initial request for bids document that was drafted by the towns counsel.

The document said that the town reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive informalities in bids, to cancel this Request for Bids if it is in the Towns best interest to do so, and to award the contract in the best interest of [the town].

We do have that right, and we reserve that right, and we stated it right here with the invitation to bid, Boyle said.

At the Nov. 10 meeting, the Select Board voted 3-1 to award the parcel to the Balardinis, with member Tony Pagliarulo voting against and member Dan Esko not present. Pagliarulo said he thought the town was going to take the highest bidder.

During the public address portion on Monday, multiple residents spoke in support of Crane and questioned why Boyle was in favor of awarding the bid to the Balardinis. Peter Bardin spoke about Boyles reference to the Balardinis being good stewards of the land, pointing out that Crane is involved in many environmental organizations and is also a good steward.

Crane said that the assessors map does not show his abutting property, but that he has better access to the parcel, stating it's safer than the sketchy right of way previously mentioned by the Select Board.

Im asking that you take into account that I also am an abutter, also have access, and was the highest bidder by over $20,000, Crane said.

Dalton resident Art Sanders said he was shocked by the Select Boards decision and that he is concerned and worried with how those types of decisions are made in the town.

The final parcel is 9.15 acres located just off Route 9, on the town line of Windsor, former interim Town Manager Henry H. Terry Williams III said. It abuts Windsor on the eastern side and has an easement to allow access to the property.

The Bardin estate entered into its Agricultural Preservation Restriction agreement in 1990, when James Edgar Bardin signed on to receive $260,000 for the land. Since then, the property has been restricted to agricultural use.

The Select Board announced the land was available in June 2022, and that year Town Meeting voted in favor of selling the land rather than leasing it, according to iBerkshires.

In October 2024, the parcels under the agricultural restriction were sold to the Balardinis for $150,000, according to iBerkshires. The 9.15-acre parcel is the non-restricted piece of property, Williams said.
LENOX  Lenox Public Schools is entering a period of leadership change, with Superintendent William Collins announcing that high school Principal Jeremiah Ames will succeed Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Operations Melissa Falkowski when she retires next summer.

In an email to the school community, Collins noted that Ames was selected following a comprehensive search process and the recommendation of two interview committees.

The principal opening that will be created by Ames' promotion will be advertised through a national search starting in January.

A search committee, including representatives of students and parents, will be formed in December, Collins said, to ensure we identify the just right successor to Ames.

Asked what attracted him to the finance post, Ames told The Eagle that the principal at [the middle and high school] does a lot in the realm of budget, finance and human resources. The two roles are different, but there is quite a bit of overlap. Im looking forward to pulling the roles into closer alignment and hope to be in the schools as much as possible."

He explained that the transition path gives us nearly seven months to work with our students, families and staff to select the next principal of LMMHS. It gives me even more time to work with Melissa Falkowski through our transition.

As for the search for his successor, Ames said he hopes the school can continue the momentum they've established recently in building up the school's culture of belonging.

"Finding a school leader committed to this work  and to supporting staff and students as they work in this direction  will be one of the most important things we do as a school community this year," Ames said.

Falkowski joined the Lenox school district in November 2019, having served in similar posts at the Central Berkshire Regional School District since 2012. She will retire next September after working with Ames in the transition.

Melissa's thoughtful stewardship and deep institutional knowledge have served Lenox Public Schools exceptionally well, Collins said. Her steady fiscal leadership has been invaluable, and I am both personally and professionally grateful for her service.

The fall 2026 leadership changes also include Morris Elementary School Principal Brenda Kelleys full-time transition to director of curriculum, instruction and assessment. Holly Soules, currently assistant principal, will succeed Kelley at Morris.

Collins said the district will have a strong "homegrown" district administrative team heading into the 20262027 school year.

In a separate announcement last week, Collins, Ames and Kelley noted that U.S. News & World Reports annual school rankings listed Lenox Memorial Middle School as 115 out of 1,064 Massachusetts middle schools. Morris was ranked 122 out of 1,542 elementary schools statewide.

Schools are ranked on student performance on state assessments, how well they prepare students for future academic success and other key indicators.

These rankings are a direct reflection of the dedication that our students and staff show every single day, said Collins. Our schools succeed because this community values education and because our educators and support staff give students the tools to thrive. I am proud of everyone who contributes to our learning environment and to the success of every child in Lenox.
Stay up to date on Berkshires news with Berkshires in Brief, our free daily newsletter

When the Adams Police will record their interactions Mandatory recordings, according to the policy, include the following: Traffic stops

Pedestrian stops

Vehicle pursuits

Prisoner transports

Crimes in progress

Calls for service

Searches

Arrests

Booking prisoners

Uses of force

Prisoner cell checks

While interacting with people who enter the police department, if the interaction could result in charges being filed or a complaint being filed against a police department member

Witness and victim interviews

Crowd management

Investigative and enforcement activities, where an officers judgment, a video recording would assist in the investigation or prosecution of a crime or when a recording of an encounter would assist in documenting the incident for later review

ADAMS  After sitting in a box for two years, body cameras owned by the Adams Police Department are front and center of the vests of local officers recording their actions and words.

It didnt take acting police Chief Timothy Sorrell long to implement a policy for body-worn cameras or for the officers to begin wearing them.

Sorrell was named acting chief Oct. 2, following the Sept. 8 announcement that Police Chief K. Scott Kelley was placed on paid administrative leave for an undisclosed reason.

Sorrell is being paid $4,003 biweekly, in a contract that runs to Dec. 31 with an option to renew on a monthly basis.

On Nov. 19, Sorrell presented a list of nine policies he has implemented since taking the position, including one for body-worn cameras. He has also begun allowing the police station to be unmanned periodically, following a 2023 town meeting vote, which reversed an earlier bylaw requiring staffing of the station at all times.

At the Nov. 19 Select Board meeting, Sorrell played footage of interactions police captured with body-worn cameras, including one of a person jumping out of a second-story window and fleeing on foot with a chase ensuing. Faces were smudged out.

Some of the footage came from a camera worn by Patrolman Kevin Stant.

He said its useful to have the footage.

Just the ability to see that  for the report, writing standpoint of it  and go back and not miss any details has been very helpful, he said.

Sorrell said he didnt know why the body cameras had been left in the closet for so long.

It was before my tenure here and when I got into this position, that was one of the first pushes I had, was to get those out, he said.

The small box-shaped cameras are constantly recording video, but only when activated do they record audio as well.

The cameras are tied magnetically to an officers firearm. As soon as the firearm leaves the holster, the body-worn cameras will begin recording audio as well as video. Officers can also manually activate them.

On Nov. 15, all officers began recording interactions that might result in loss of life, injury or damage to property or chance of citizen complaint, according to the policy.

The policy states that whenever possible, officers should inform people they are being recorded, and, In locations where individuals have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as a residence, they may decline to be recorded unless the recording is being made pursuant to an arrest or search 

The policy also states that a supervisor will periodically review footage to check that an officer is using the cameras properly and will respond to the scene when a camera has been activated.

Having the flexibility to leave the police station unmanned periodically makes that requirement easier for the on-duty sergeant.

A red phone in the lobby of the police station has phone numbers for the Adams Police Department non-emergency line and advises those facing an emergency to dial 911.

Calls to that phone number will automatically forward to the Berkshire Regional Emergency Communications Center to ensure response.

In addition, if the phone inside the Adams Police Station rings more than four times, on the fifth ring, it will also be routed to the Berkshire Regional Emergency Communications Center.

Im looking at the dispatchers, and they're answering a phone or on a phone with somebody, and the other lines are ringing, Sorrell said. Either you have to tell this person, Hey, I got to put you on hold. I got to grab the other phone, or, if this is emergency enough, they're still talking and that phone is going unanswered.

Sorrell recalled a recent situation of a ringing phone.

We had a situation in the lobby the other night where the desk officer had to come out from behind the glass to go out to the lobby to handle something, which meant nobody was in there answering the call, Sorrell said. But luckily, we had already set up the call transfer.

Sorrell, 59, worked for the Lanesborough Police Department for more than 33 years as a Lanesborough police officer, about six of which he was police chief. After he retired in 2021, he worked as a special police officer in Adams doing pistol permitting and traffic details. His son, Nicholas Sorrell, is a patrolman.

Born in Pittsfield, he graduated from Lenox Memorial High School. He then enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and served as a military police officer in the United States. After he was honorably discharged in 1986, he took a job as a part-time police officer in Lenox. He was appointed to the Lanesborough Police Department in 1987 and graduated from the ninth Foxborough Police Department Massachusetts Police Officer's Class.
Stay up to date on Berkshires news with Berkshires in Brief, our free daily newsletter

NORTH ADAMS  For over four decades, two downtown churches have served hundreds of meals for people in need.

This year, All Saints Episcopal Church on Summer Street celebrated 41 years of delivering Thanksgiving meals to Northern Berkshire seniors. Around the corner on Main Street, the Berkshire Food Project prepped and distributed ready-to-warm meals on Wednesday in its lunchroom inside First Congregational Church.

Here's what to know about both traditions.

All Saints Episcopal Church

Led by sisters Shannon and Aja Daugherty, making and delivering meals from All Saints is a Thanksgiving tradition started by their mother Diane Bleau. Now, the sisters organize the meal delivery while their children package the meals. The sisters' cousin Syid Uqdah and his kids also help in the kitchen and the packaging assembly line.

The traditional roast turkey and fixings were delivered to 244 seniors age 60 and older who spent the holiday alone in North Adams, Adams, Cheshire, Florida and Williamstown. The meals were delivered by about 40 volunteer drivers and each driver delivered anywhere from about four to seven meals, said the sisters.

"We want them to go out hot," Shannon said.

It was the fourth year that retired letter carrier Dick Dussatti, 69, loaded up a cooler with meals at All Saints to deliver to the high rises on Ashland Street. After a late morning of delivering meals, he'd go back to his wife and kids for their own celebration.

"I'm helping [my wife] by being away while she has knives in her hands," he said.

Before he retired three years ago, Dussatti, a North Adams native, delivered mail to the high rises for 35 of the 38 years he worked. He also delivers meals from the church monthly on Sundays. As Dussatti entered the lobby of the apartment complex, he was greeted by Dan Rolnick, who has lived at the complex for 23 years and who Dussatti nicknamed the mayor of the high rises.

"It's because I know just about everybody," said Rolnick. Dussatti gave him a meal and a few extras for other residents on his list.

"He knows where people are if they aren't here when they are delivered," said Dussatti.

Resident Corey Fortin chatted in the lobby with Rolnick and also received a meal.

"It's like being at home, the food's very good," said Fortin.

As Dussatti knocked on each senior's door, they opened it and saw a familiar face. He knew which residents were Yankees fans and joked with several of them about when the team would finally fire its manager or which first baseman the Red Sox were eyeing.

"I was very familiar with this place," he said. "I miss so many who are gone, but I got to meet so many."

After finishing his deliveries and realizing he had an extra meal left over, Dussatti handed it to Rolnick, who would save it for someone.

"They usually find someone to give it to," said Dussatti. "There is always someone who needs it."

The Berkshire Food Project

During its Wednesday lunch service of sandwiches and soup, the Berkshire Food Project distributed about 200 takeout Thanksgiving meals ready to heat up for the next day, said Executive Director Matt Alcombright.

The turkeys were donated by Baldor Foods, Casita and an anonymous donor. Casita and Tourists in North Adams and Mezze Bar + Bistro in Williamstown prepped, cooked and brought the turkeys to Berkshire Food Project, ready to eat.

Next year, the Berkshire Food Project will celebrate 40 years of cooking and serving free meals. In the autumn of 1986, Williams College students along with residents and the Rev. Elizabeth Wheeler created the program to offer regular free lunches at First Congregational Church.

"Our goal is to have you come and eat, that is all we want you to do," said Alcombright Tuesday at a City Council meeting, where he gave a presentation on food insecurity.

Resident Emanuela Bunt picked up meals for her family of four and an extra. She said she was going to give it to someone she knows who is homeless near her house. Bunt said she and her family live on disability benefits. "It means that we get a Thanksgiving dinner and we don't get it otherwise, and nothing else is open.

Mary Taylor and Cathy Crowther each took meals and were going to share with another friend the next day. Taylor, who is a personal care assistant, said she was taking an extra meal to her client she was seeing after lunch.

"It will be very helpful for him," she said. "These people here are so good. They always have stuff for you."

Taylor was also excited when she learned she could take one of the festive orange flower centerpieces home, which were donated by Mount Williams Greenhouses.

Alcombright said that anyone is welcome at the food project every day it is open. As it begins to celebrate 40 years of serving meals, Alcombright said the project wants more people and community groups regardless of income status to dine at the project.

"There is an increasing need in this community for food, and for safe spaces for people to be," said Alcombright, who said that they've seen hundreds of new faces in the dining room this year. "Many of our guests don't even want to eat, they just want to be warm. As we know, food breaks down a lot of barriers ... so our goal is to eat lunch and dine with our guests and create a safe relationship where they can have more difficult conversations."
I had no idea that an exact replica of Daniel Chester Frenchs studio was built, did you? French (1850-1931) built his summer home and workspace, Chesterwood, beginning in 1898. The studio was completed first and the house in 1901. He gave his young assistant, Henry Augustus Lukeman (1872-1935), the architectural plans for the studio, and his replica was completed in 1900.

After Lukeman, it became the studio of his nephew-by-marriage, renowned stained glass artist Frederick Ludwig Leuchs. Today, Leuchs daughters, and Lukemans great-nieces, Paula Leuchs McNay and Catherine Leuchs Bohrman, are restoring the studio. When asked why they would undertake the difficult task of restoration, McNay said, to continue supporting the arts in Stockbridge and to preserve history.

Buildings are the repositories of our history. We take a loved one, stand outside a house and say that is where I was born, and our story begins. Commentator Michael Steele recently told a similar story while he was a panelist on Real Time with Bill Maher. Steele recounted being taken by his father to stand outside the White House and how he first heard the story of our country. When Steele shared that on air, Maher responded: It is just a building.

Yes, to some, it is just an old building. To others, when a building is torn down it leaves a rent in the fabric of our history.

The White House was built between 1798 and 1801. Our second president, John Adams, was the first to live there. Our third president, Thomas Jefferson, completed the peoples house in 1801, designing and adding the two final touches: the East and West colonnades.

George Washington, our first president, never lived in the White House, but he selected its location, the architect and the design. Through that design, its modest size and simple dignity, the form of government it symbolized could be explained.

An old building, a small historic object and a sepia photograph are all imbued with something that informs and amplifies a time, a place and a story. We in Berkshire County must have felt that way, because we have saved so much. Along our main streets and backroads, the interspersing of our historic structures is not just the springboard for telling our history; it is also the basis of the appearance and the character of our area.

Hanging in the balance.' Pittsfields William Russell Allen House named among states most endangered landmarks City officials in Pittsfield are renewing efforts to save the historic William Russell Allen House with a feasibility study as it was listed among Massachusetts Most Endangered Historic Resources for 2025.

In 2009, Jim Shulman, an avid collector and Berkshire Eagle columnist, wrote and asked what we could do to preserve the William Russell Allen House on East Street. Could the historic house be converted into a museum to literally hold the images and objects of Berkshire past, which inspired and informed Shulmans stories of Pittsfield? With $200,000 amassed through the generosity of the Mass Division of Asset Management and Maintenance, the Berkshire Bank Foundation, a generous private donor and Soldier On, we stabilized the 1886 house. With that amount, we could stabilize WRA but could go no further.

This year, Pittsfield Historical Commission Chairman John Dickson requested I write a letter of support for Preservation Massachusetts to place WRA on its Most Endangered Historic Resources 2025 list. Never count a good man out: What I started in 2009, John Dickson might finish in 2025.

Another day, another email: Kripalu Center for Yoga wrote to me about the restoration of the 134-year-old gatehouse at Shadow Brook. Its yet another property that underscores what we stand to lose if we dont preserve notable buildings and landmarks: not just history but the regional economic benefits bolstered by that history in the tourism and hospitality sectors.

With enthusiasm, I wrote a grant that could be used to apply to private foundations and for government grants. Jennifer Joyce, Kripalu director of gifts and gratitude wrote: What youve created for us is absolutely stunning. Youve captured not just what we need to raise funds, but the very heart and soul of why this matters.

Our history is the underpinning of our communal identity and our economy. It facilitates telling our story and, by extension, Americas story.

There seem to be cycles and fads in what we humans value. This might be a time when many prefer tearing down and building new, espousing that new is better.

So, right now it might be more difficult to preserve even as it is more important to fight for the balance between current needs and the relics of the past. Think for a moment of all the empty buildings in Berkshire County. We need housing, but do we need to build all of it anew? Maybe we need to achieve that balance by rehabilitating extant buildings for new purposes.

I miss the East Wing, and I would miss the Shadow Brook gatehouse, the William Russell Allen House and the relationship between the extant buildings at Ventfort Hall.

When we turn the page on the last day of 2025, our country will be entering the year of its 250th birthday. From coast to coast, folks will be telling our story. In New England, we will be able to point to our earliest buildings. From Salem Street in Boston to Main Street in Stockbridge, we can stand and point at the North Church or the Mission House and say, That is where our country was born, and so our story begins.
A blaze broke out at the University of Warwick's Arthur Vick 1 residence on the evening of 19 November, prompting a full evacuation. A student says residents initially dismissed the fire alarm after experiencing 'two false alarms half an hour earlier', shortly before the real incident forced them to flee. The blaze, reported at around 9pm, triggered a large emergency response.

Students and Staff Safe, No Injuries

West Midlands Fire Service confirmed that eight crews were dispatched, along with police and ambulance teams. The University later confirmed that no injuries had been reported, despite multiple ambulances leaving campus as a precaution.

Why Students First Ignored the Alarm

One resident told The Boar that students did not initially evacuate because they believed the alarm was faulty. 'I thought my flat was joking when they told me we actually needed to leave,' they said, noting that repeated false alarms had happened shortly before the incident.

Some TikTok users later speculated that the fire began due to a hair straightener left on. Earlier reports from students at the scene also suggested it may have been an 'oil fire', though authorities have not confirmed any cause.

Emergency Accommodation Provided

Displaced students were directed to the Junction building for support, where university staff provided assistance. The institution confirmed it is helping residents find alternative emergency housing and has arranged both wellbeing support and campus security presence throughout the night.

A university spokesperson said on Thursday morning (20 November):

'Emergency services were called to a fire on campus at the Arthur Vick 1 residence block on Wednesday night. The fire is now out. 'All students have been evacuated and no injuries have been reported. Those affected are being helped by the University to find alternative forms of emergency accommodation. Wellbeing services are providing support to those affected.'

Members of the Warwick Christian Union also expressed their willingness to offer spare rooms to affected students and handed out hot drinks and biscuits at Junction after the evacuation.

Warwick Has Experienced Fires Before

This is not the first time Warwick has faced a campus fire leading to emergency evacuations. In 2023, a blaze at the university's Physics Building forced students and staff out of nearby facilities, after a lithium-ion car battery ignited during testing in a laboratory chamber, according to The Tab.

During the incident, both fire engines and ambulances were present. One student also claimed that a class was allowed to continue 'despite smelling like burning bleach because the alarms weren't working', while others were forced to abandon lab sessions.

Fire Safety Protocols In Place

The University of Warwick states that all halls of residence are fitted with automatic fire detection and alarm systems, with students required to follow evacuation procedures and keep fire doors closed at all times to prevent the spread of flames and smoke. According to its residential fire guidance, students are expected to familiarise themselves with escape routes, report hazards and avoid leaving electrical devices unattended.

While the cause of the latest blaze has yet to be confirmed, the incident has renewed questions among students about alarm reliability and fire awareness.

Originally published on IBTimes UK
Access this story and all of our stories with 24/7 unlimited access.

Kevin OHara, a longtime Eagle contributor, is the author of Ins and Outs of a Locked Ward: My 30 Years as a Psychiatric Nurse.
Act now  the sooner you receive a lung cancer screening, the sooner medical teams can detect and treat cancer in its early, more manageable stages.
Quality local journalism needs your support

Access this story and all of our stories with 24/7 unlimited access.

Subscribe today. Cancel anytime.

Subscribe now for 99

Subscriber Sign In | Return Home
In recent years, antisemitism in America has surged at an alarming rate, including everything from vandalism and verbal harassment to violence on campuses and even murder. In May 2025, two young Israeli embassy staffers, Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim, were murdered in Washington, DC, simply for being Israeli. Then, in June, pro-Israel demonstrators in Boulder, Colorado, who were simply waving flags and singing, were violently attacked. In New Jersey, four freshman students in Manalapan High School reportedly shared Snapchat messages in which they called to kill every last Jew and joked about dressing up as Adolf Hitler and Holocaust victims for Halloween. These are just a few of thousands of instances of antisemitism that represent an even more disturbing escalation of hate on US soil that highlights the urgent need for action.

The Antisemitism Surge in America

This recent spike in antisemitism in America ignited when Hamas terrorists attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in the deaths of 1,200 Israelis, including children and elderly Holocaust Survivors, and the kidnapping of 250 individuals. Within weeks, the narrative flipped, and Israel, the victim of a brutal terrorist attack, was recast as the aggressor. This fueled a wave of hate against the Jewish people that quickly spread to America.

According to the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), there were nearly 10,000 antisemitic incidents reported in the year following the outbreak of the wara more than 100 percent increase from the previous year. A recent joint survey by the ADL and the Jewish Federations of America (JFA) showed that more than half of Jewish Americans experienced at least one form of antisemitism in the past year. Sadly, 57 percent believe antisemitism is now a normal Jewish experience.

From January 1 to July 31, 2025, the Antisemitism Research Center (ARC) by Combat Antisemitism Movement (CAM) recorded 3,883 incidentsa 9.4 percent rise over the same period in 2024. This included a wave of antisemitism that infiltrated mainstream culturelike Kanye Wests release of a single and music video titled Heil Hitler, a Pulitzer Prize awarded to a Hamas hostage denier for commentary on the Israel-Hamas war, and widespread media coverage of a factually incorrect statement made by a United Nations spokesperson, who falsely claimed that 14,000 Gazan babies would die in 48 hours.

This normalization of antisemitic speech has emboldened hate in schools, where Jewish students are being targeted for harassment, excluded from clubs, or even physically threatened, as well as in the media and in neighborhoods. Social media users even justified the murders of Yaron and Sarah in Washington, DC.

The Jewish people are living in fear for their lives, while terrorists are bolstered by the mainstream cultures normalization of this toxic rhetoric against Israel and the Jewish people. One Jewish man on a television news bite said that Jews feel like they are being hunted.

Another blatant example of antisemitic bias is the early mainstream media reports on the morning of June 1, 2025, that indicated that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) were responsible for killing more than 30 civilians outside an aid distribution center in Gaza. Those reports were based solely on information provided by the Hamas-led Health Ministry and were quickly reported without contention or context, even after Israel denied the reports. This is not the first time that the terrorist organization has used propaganda and the mainstream media to further its agenda and distort the reality of the war.

Since then, conservative influencers like Tucker Carlson and Candace Owens have espoused antisemitic conspiracy theories to the millions of viewers who follow them. Both speak from a Christian perspective but veer into the absurd with accusations such as blaming Israel for the assassination of Charlie Kirk. They both seem to be somewhat obsessed with Israel and driven by antisemitism. Tucker Carlson even used his few minutes at Charlie Kirks memorial to point a finger at the Jews for killing Jesus, implying their role in Kirks death.

Political Antisemitism

What we are witnessing is not just religious or racial antisemitismit is also a dangerous form of political antisemitism aimed at the Jewish collective that targets the mere existence of Israel as a Jewish state. The radical left-wing antisemitic movement, masked as anti-Israelism, is in fact promoting outright antisemitism. The willingness of those in this movement to harm any Jew they encounter demonstrates that they are using politics as an excuse to attack and kill Jewsperiod.

Its Time to Act

Now is the time to raise our voices and stand boldly with the State of Israel and the Jewish people. We must urgently turn our attention to the next generation of American Christiansyoung people inundated daily with antisemitic narratives on social media and university campuses. To reach them, we need innovative, relevant education that speaks their language and meets them where they are.

We must also spotlight media accountability and launch focused educational efforts that defend truth and protect Jewish communities. We must demand that the mainstream and legacy media prioritize integrity and moral clarity over being the first to report breaking news or further the agenda that Israel and the Jewish people are the aggressors when its obvious that they are the victims of heinous violence again and again.

Silence in the face of this vile and growing hostility toward Gods people is not an option.

This article was originally published on July 3, 2025, at: https://icejusa.org/2025/07/03/antisemitism-in-america/

Photo credit: Getty Image/tzahiV via Canva Pro

Learn More from OnePlace.com:

For over 40 years, Dr. Susan Michael has advanced the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem (ICEJ) in the USA and worldwide. She serves as the USA President and sits on the ICEJs international Board of Directors. She is frequently asked to address complex issues to diverse audiencesincluding antisemitism, Jewish-Christian relations, and Middle East affairsand does so with clarity and grace. Dr. Michael leads the American Christian Leaders for Israel (ACLI) network, has authored books, such as Encounter the 3D Bible: How to Read the Bible so It Comes to Life, and has developed educational resources, including the IsraelAnswers website, ICEJ U online courses, and curricula for Christian colleges.
BillOReilly.com is not available in this country.



We apologize for any inconvenience.
Pharmacopoeia Commission of India inks three MoUs with Nagaland government

November 28, 2025 | Friday | News

Collaboration aims to strengthen surveillance in the pharma and ingredients sector

image credit- pib

The Pharmacopoeia Commission of India (IPC), Ghaziabad, an autonomous institute under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, has signed three Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with Nagaland Medical Council, Nagaland State Drug Control Administration (NSDCA), Department of Health and Family Welfare, Nagaland and State Pharmacy Council, Government of Nagaland.

The MoU was signed during a one-day training programme on monitoring in the pharma and materials sector. It was organised by the Pharmacopoeia Commission of India, Ghaziabad in collaboration with the Nagaland State Drug Control Administration (NSDCA), Department of Health and Family Welfare, Nagaland.

The event aimed to strengthen IPC's collaborative efforts in promoting public health by facilitating the use of Indian Pharmacopoeia reference substances and impurity standards in drug testing laboratories under NSDCA, safe and rational use of drugs, enhancing surveillance activities in the pharma and ingredients sector, and advancing patient safety initiatives in the state of Nagaland.

This MoU is expected to enhance professional engagement, establish adverse drug reaction (ADR) Monitoring Centres/Medical Devices Monitoring Centres/Monitoring Centres. It is expected to encourage wider participation in ADR reporting through establishment of Medical Device Monitoring Centres and strengthen the drug safety monitoring mechanism in the sector.

IPC is committed to provide all possible technical guidance and expert support for these initiatives. NSDCA and Nagaland State Pharmacy Council are also expected to cooperate with the Government of India to facilitate the establishment of Medical Colleges/Pharmacies in the country.
IISc and Henry Royce Institute announce strategic bioprinting partnership

November 28, 2025 | Friday | News

A step forward in uniting UK and Indian scientific strengths under the UK-India Technology Security Initiative

The Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru and the Henry Royce Institute at The University of Manchester, UK have signed a Letter of intent (LoI) for a major new agreement to collaborate on cutting-edge research in 3D bioprinting, biofabrication, and materials science.

The partnership is a step forward in uniting UK and Indian scientific strengths under the UK-India Technology Security Initiative to accelerate innovation in healthcare, precision medicine and sustainable bio-manufacturing.

The collaboration brings together world-leading expertise in bioprinting, biomaterials, engineering biology and advanced manufacturing. Over the coming years, IISc and Royce will work jointly to develop new biomaterials, organotypic models, medical implants and translational technologies that support next-generation healthcare solutions. Clinical adoption and commercialisation of bioprinting technologies sits at the heart of the agreement.

Joint R&D projects, training programmes and talent development initiatives will be launched with support from co-funding mechanisms in the UK and India. These activities aim to strengthen capacity building and accelerate research translation across both countries.

A key initiative emerging from the partnership is the UKIndia Bioprinting and Engineering Biology Summit (BioSculpt 2025), which was held at IISc Bengaluru from 2628 November 2025 under the UK-India Technology Security Initiative.

UK Science Minister Lord Vallance said, Bioprinting is an incredibly exciting field. Being able to build biological systems, and eventually even entire organs, in the lab wont just help make medical research easier. It could form an important part of the UK Governments work, rolling out alternatives to animal testing and ultimately ending it wherever possible."
Northwestern University is closing in on a controversial agreement with President Donald Trump's administration that would require the institution to pay approximately $75 million to restore $790 million in frozen federal research grants and end a federal antisemitism investigation that has hung over the campus for months.

The deal, reported by The New York Times and confirmed by the US Department of Education as being in final negotiations, would represent the second-largest financial settlement extracted by the Trump administration from elite universities in its aggressive campaign to reshape higher education policies around diversity programs, campus protests, and allegations of antisemitism.

The Education Department spokesperson said Wednesday that while "the deal is not final," the parties are "negotiating in good faith and making progress," adding they look forward "to announcing a final agreement soon that will ensure all students have equal learning opportunities, hiring and admissions decisions are merit-based, and the university once again prioritizes truth seeking and academic excellence."

The Price of Federal Funding

Under the proposed terms, Northwestern would pay a $75 million fine directly to the federal governmentmoney that will not support students, research, or any educational purpose but instead flow to federal coffers as what critics characterize as punishment for the university's handling of Gaza-related campus protests.

In exchange, the Trump administration would restore access to hundreds of millions in frozen federal research funding and close investigations into alleged "widespread antisemitic harassment" at the university.

The $75 million figure places Northwestern's settlement behind only Columbia University, which agreed to pay more than $200 million over three years earlier this year, but significantly higher than other institutions that have struck deals with the administration.

Cornell University committed to a $30 million fine plus an additional $30 million investment in agricultural research programs. Brown University agreed to steer $50 million into state workforce programs. The University of Virginia and University of Pennsylvania have also reached agreements, though the financial terms of those deals have not been fully disclosed.

A Nine-Month Crisis

The path to this settlement has been financially devastating for Northwestern. The Trump administration froze approximately $790 million in federal research funding in April 2025, triggering an immediate crisis for the university's extensive research operations.

According to data from Grant Witness, more than $1.06 billion in awards from the National Institutes of Health and National Science Foundation have gone unpaid since the freeze begana figure substantially higher than the initially frozen $790 million, suggesting the financial damage has compounded as new grants were also withheld.

Northwestern responded by self-funding research operations from its own reserves, a stopgap measure that proved astronomically expensive. Faculty members told the Chicago Tribune the university was spending approximately $10 million per week to keep research projects alive during the standoff.

In July, facing what officials described as a "significant budget gap" that couldn't be bridged without cutting personnel costs, Northwestern announced it would eliminate more than 400 staff positions425 jobs in total, though nearly half had been vacant.

University officials described the layoffs as "a drastic step" and "the most painful measure we have had to take," acknowledging the human cost of the federal pressure campaign.

In September, the university pledged to continue funding essential research needs through at least the end of 2025, though administrators urged "fiscal responsibility" and "conservative use of funds to help minimize University risk."

The Fall of a President

The federal pressure campaign contributed directly to a dramatic leadership change. Former Northwestern President Michael Schill resigned abruptly in September after facing months of attacks from Republicans over his handling of a pro-Palestinian encampment on campus during spring 2024.

Schill had appeared before a hostile congressional hearing where Republican lawmakers accused him of failing to adequately protect Jewish students. While he did not explicitly cite the federal funding freeze when announcing his resignation, Schill acknowledged "difficult problems" at the federal level.

His replacement, Henry Bienenwho previously served as Northwestern's president from 1995 to 2009inherited the task of navigating negotiations with the Trump administration.

In October, Bienen told faculty members he wanted to strike a deal to restore research funding but would not sign an agreement that "hinders the autonomy of the university." The emerging $75 million settlement suggests the boundaries of that autonomy have now been defined.

What Northwestern Is Agreeing To

While the full terms of the deal have not been publicly disclosed, Bloomberg reported that Northwestern has taken steps to fight antisemitism and roll back diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs that Trump has aggressively pushed schools to dismantle.

The agreement appears similar in structure to other university settlements, which have typically required:

Enhanced efforts to combat antisemitism on campus

Substantial rollback or elimination of DEI programs in hiring and admissions

Commitments to "merit-based" admissions and employment decisions

Implementation of new training programs and oversight mechanisms

Regular reporting to federal authorities on compliance

These requirements align with the Trump administration's "Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education"a standardized agreement designed by billionaire financier Marc Rowan that the White House has offered to universities in exchange for preferential funding treatment.

Northwestern was not among the original nine elite institutions that received the compact in October, but the administration subsequently indicated it would extend the offer to all higher education institutions willing to commit to the policy changes.

Faculty Revolt and Community Protest

The prospect of a settlement has deeply divided the Northwestern community. At an October 15 Faculty Assembly meeting, 595 faculty members voted to pass a resolution opposing capitulation to the Trump administration, with only four against and eight abstentions.

When news of potential negotiations emerged in August, hundreds of faculty members signed a statement calling the school "complicit in an assault on institutions of higher education."

Community protests have reinforced faculty opposition. In mid-November, more than 20 members of the Evanston and Northwestern communities rallied at The Arch, the campus landmark, urging the university "to stand strong" against federal demands.

Protesters waved signs reading "Stand Strong NU" and "NU Fight Fascism," chanting modified versions of the school fight song with lyrics changed to "Go Northwestern, win this game!"

McCormick Professor Michael Peshkin attended holding a sign that read "No 'Deal' With Fascists," telling the crowd: "We have a responsibility that is more than just securing our funding. We have a responsibility to academic freedom, we have a patriotic responsibility to supporting and defending democracy."

Seventh Ward resident David Bice criticized Northwestern for not fighting as Harvard has done, noting that Harvard "actually went to court to fight" rather than immediately pursuing settlement negotiations.

Mary Jo Barrett, a 1976 Northwestern graduate and Evanston resident, warned of financial consequences: "If they give money or take money or fold to being paid by the oligarchy, I, for one, will never give a dime to the school again."

The Extortion Debate

Critics across the political spectrum have characterized the Trump administration's approach to universities as extortionusing federal funding as leverage to extract both policy changes and direct financial payments.

Universities receive billions in federal research grants annually, making them highly vulnerable to funding freezes. When the Trump administration simultaneously withholds funding while offering "deals" to restore it in exchange for payments and policy changes, institutions face impossible choices between financial survival and institutional principles.

The pattern is now well-established. Columbia paid $200 million. Cornell paid $60 million. Brown paid $50 million. Now Northwestern appears ready to pay $75 million. Each payment flows directly to the federal government rather than supporting education, research, or students.

Defenders of the administration's approach argue universities have systematically failed to address antisemitism and have allowed DEI programs to compromise academic merit. From this perspective, the settlements represent accountability for institutions that ignored federal civil rights laws and misused taxpayer funding.

The debate reflects fundamental disagreements about academic freedom, the appropriate scope of federal oversight, and whether the government should use funding leverage to reshape university policies on contentious social and political issues.

Divergent Institutional Responses

Not all universities have chosen Northwestern's path. Harvard, despite similar pressure and funding threats, has fought back in court and successfully secured temporary restoration of some funding through litigation.

In a recent ruling, a federal judge determined that the Trump administration couldn't implement a "blanket policy of denying any future grants" to UCLA and other University of California institutions as a pressure tactic during civil rights investigations.

These legal victories suggest universities with sufficient resources and will to fight may be able to resist some federal demands, though the costs of litigation and continued funding uncertainty make settlement attractive even to wealthy institutions.

The divergent approachesHarvard fighting, Columbia paying, Northwestern negotiatingwill likely shape how other universities respond as the Trump administration extends its pressure campaign to additional institutions.

The Research Impact

Beyond the financial and political dimensions, the Northwestern situation has had direct impacts on research operations and scientific progress.

Stop-work orders have affected more than 100 federally funded research projects. Graduate students have faced uncertainty about funding for their dissertations. Postdoctoral researchers have seen positions eliminated or put on hold. Faculty members have scrambled to find alternative funding sources or mothball projects mid-stream.

The disciplines affected span the research spectrumfrom biomedical research seeking cures for diseases to social science examining policy questions to engineering developing new technologies. When federal research funding stops flowing, scientific progress slows or halts, with consequences extending far beyond individual institutions.

"Research is central to Northwestern's mission of advancing knowledge for the greater good, and the discoveries made by our scholars contribute to life-saving innovations every day," Bienen and Board Chair Peter Barris wrote in September, emphasizing what was at stake.

The Broader Trump University Campaign

Northwestern represents just one front in the Trump administration's comprehensive campaign to reshape American higher education.

The administration has frozen funding at dozens of institutions, opened antisemitism investigations at more than 60 universities, launched civil rights probes into diversity hiring practices, and demanded compliance with the "Compact for Academic Excellence" that requires eliminating DEI programs and committing to "merit-based" admissions.

Education Secretary Linda McMahon has repeatedly signaled that deals with Harvard and other prominent institutions are "almost finished," suggesting Northwestern will not be the last to settle.

The cumulative effect is a fundamental restructuring of the relationship between federal government and higher educationmoving from a partnership model where universities received research grants to pursue scientific questions toward a compliance model where universities implement federally mandated policies in exchange for funding access.

Whether this represents necessary accountability for institutional failures or dangerous politicization of higher education depends largely on one's perspective on the underlying controversies around antisemitism, DEI, and campus speech.
by Ed Simon

Behind the neo-classical facade of the Tate Gallery in Milbank, all grey stone and Corinthian columned, its pediment topped with a grandiose visage of Britannia with her trident and Grecian martial helmet, there is a near-revolutionary work of art first displayed to great controversy in 2001. Winner of that years Turner Prize, English conceptual artist Martin Creeds much-hated Work No. 227: The lights going on and off was the millennial culmination of a certain ironic 90s Cool Britannia aesthetic, the resultant natural progression of Oasis, Blur, Britpop, Blair and Damien Hirsts diamond-crusted skull and shark in formaldehyde. Work No. 227: The lights going on and off consists entirely of an empty white-walled gallery in which the lights flicker off and on for five seconds apiece. In the indomitable art-speak of gallery guides, exhibiting the great rhetoric of rationalization, curator Helen Delany argues on the Tates website that Creeds work confounds the viewers normal expectations, that the piece plays with the viewers sense of space and time and in so doing he implicated and empowers the viewer, forcing an awareness of, and interaction with, the physical actuality of the space. In a 2001 Telegraph article auspiciously noting the 20,000 monetary sum that Creed received as part of the Turner prize, Nigel Reynolds soberly reports that the announcement was met with a mixture of incredulity, attempts at philosophizing and plain outrage. Jonathan Jones, in a Guardian piece written upon the Tates purchasing of Work No. 227: The Lights going on and off (rumored to have sold for 110,000) explains with an admirably honest ambivalence that One moment I am entranced by a simple, eloquent Creed gesture, the next I am wondering if this is not all a bit pretentious? To Jones grappling I can add my own critique of Creed, my feeling that the problem with Work No. 227: The lights going on and off is that its simply not pretentious enough.

I began the previous paragraph by saying that Creeds work was near-revolutionary, and I believe that Work No. 227: The lights going on and off was a missed opportunity to produce something truly aesthetically radical, as opposed to a work that walks a tight-rope between mystical profundity and gimmick. Something in the fact that there is a contingent of art critic who, fearing the insult of innate conservatism, will justify any Dadaist or Fluxus inspired contemporary art inspired practical joke as Art, and thus we have Maurizio Cattelans The Comedian, the infamous banana duct-tapped to a wall which sold for $120,000 at Miamis Art Basel last year (and must have been an occasion for money laundering, right?). Ive got no horse in the race of modern art criticism, so Ill only break my silence to say again that if people find a lot of these things as absurd, funny, or outrageous, my biggest problem with Work No. 227: The lights going on and off, with its epileptic flickering of dull white light and shadow on sterile alabaster gallery walls, is that its far too traditional, far too conservative, far too old-fashioned. Indications of what could have been are hinted at in the gallery descriptions; from 2006 to 2007 it was exhibited at the Museum of Modern Art in New York, and the description of the piece reads that this work is almost nothing, the Tates page is even more evocative. Where a picture of the piece would normally be displayed, the Tates web page simply reads SORRY, NO IMAGE AVAILABLE. Yet a Google image search will result in any number of photographs of Work No. 227: The lights going on and off, the Tate and MoMAs respectable looking empty white gallery spaces bathed in a prosaic electric glow. If Creeds work had fully lived up to its anarchic promise, then even this would have been impossible.

To embody the radical potential of artistic minimalism, the work shouldnt have been almost nothing, it should have been nothing. There should have been no apology for NO IMAGE AVAILABLE; it should have read IMAGE IMPOSSIBLE. When first drafting this essay, I had misremembered Creeds piece; I recalled it as having been behind a bricked-up wall, not visible to any museum-goers, and that belief in the existence of the flickering light was thus an act of complete faith. That would have been a much better version of Work No. 227: The lights going on and off, in my opinion. Even better would have been if the light bulb itself didnt actually exist. A work of complete and utter idealism, a nonexistent god towards whom we can supplicate ourselves. If Creeds art had taken that form, I think that it would have unironically been the greatest work of our short century; art pushed to the absolute limit of what representation means, of what existence means. It would have been to craft the completely imaginary work, the non-existent piece, but to compel it into reality in the minds of the viewers themselves. Not familiar enough with Creeds work to confidently make an argument one way or the other, I do note that he was raised as a Quaker, and as Alain Besancon argues in The Forbidden Image: An Intellectual History of Iconoclasm, abstract art developed within a religious and, more precisely, a mystical movement. The Quakers, as the truest and most complete of Protestant iconoclasts, perhaps exerted some sort of influence on Creed, though I dont wonder that even if a bit of that divine Simplicity filtered its way into Work No. 227: The lights going on and off, if his faith wasnt quite complete enough to plumb the complete Silence, that totalizing Nothing. What it gestures towards, but doesnt quite accomplish itself, is a perfect iconoclastic piece, an immaculate apophatic work.

Which returns us to one of the strangest moments of art appreciation to ever occur in human history, when following the Roman general Pompeys taking of Jerusalem in 63 BCE, he strode into the Jewish Temple. A century later and the Jewish-Roman historian Josephus would record that Pompey entered the Temple and saw all that which it was unlawful for any other men to see but only for the high priests. Assembled before the general was the golden table, the holy candlestick, and the pouring vessels and a great quantity of spices. Josephus records that despite having slaughtered some 12,000 Jews who were defending the Temple, Pompey demanded that the sacred objects not be molested, and that offerings continue as they had before, with one exception  he demanded to be brought into the inner sanctum, the Holy of Holies, the beating heart of the building and the sacred space whereby Gods indwelling presence was to dwell during the annual Day of Atonement. Neither a Jew nor a priest, this space was forbidden to Pompey, but he bestrode into the Holy of Holies regardless, expecting no doubt that the room would be piled high with riches, with jewels, with an encrusted statue of the living God Himself. Tacitus records that Pompey rather discovered that the sanctuary was empty and the Holy of Holies untenanted. Thus, did one of the most powerful men in the world discover the theological and aesthetic sublimity of the Jews God, who could be circumscribed not in marble or gold, but was most fully encapsulated within the sacred absence that was the center of the holy Temple. Pompey envisioned something like the massive colossus of Helios bestride the bay of Rhodes, or the gilded ivory behemoth of Zeus in Olympia. What he discovered was all the more beautiful and powerful  he discovered nothing. Like a non-existent flickering light-bulb in an invisible room.

Judaism, Islam, and to a lesser extent Protestantism (in some forms) are iconoclastic faiths, and insomuch as this relates to art history and questions of representation and abstraction, the figurative and the literal, there is something interesting and important about that fact. But should the prohibition on graven images, the Second Commandment for Jews, which is folded into the First Commandment for many Christians, be reduced to a simple issue of representation, then its true import is occluded (and besides, it should be emphasized that a prohibition on idolatry is not the same as a ban on images). Yes, the prohibition on graven images has had a tangible material effect on art history; think of the intricate calligraphy born from Sunni Islam, or of mosques decorated with mosaics depicting complex non-figurative geometric patterns. And yes, iconoclasm has had profound social, political, and cultural implications as well; the iconoclastic fury that dominated Byzantine Orthodoxy during the eighth-century or the stripping of the altars during Englands sixteenth-century Henrician Reformation. All of these examples have a direct line going back to that empty room espied by Pompey, but iconoclasm is more than mere aesthetics; more even than mere enforcement of religious law. Iconoclasm, whereby there is the admission made that depictions of divinity arent just unlawful, but in fact impossible, is the fundamental axiom and paradox of all representation. The Jews could have built a statue of Yahweh and put it in the Holy of Holies, some garish puppet of marble and gold, crusted in precious stones and rubbed daily with olive oil to preserve the illusion of a bright sheen. What they did was infinitely greater  they put nothing in the room. An ontological principle, a declaration about reality  somethings are fundamentally impossible to represent. Taken to its final, logical conclusion, for Gods immanence and transcendence are such that a statement about divinity cant help but be a statement about everything else  iconoclasm implies that its impossible to represent anything, everything. Such is the cheeky point made by the Belgian painter Rene Magritte in his celebrated 1929 composition The Treachery of Images with its depiction of a pipe and the verbal reminder that Ceci nest pas une pipe.

From that observation, the iconoclastic principle is inviolate. Not a prohibition so much as a statement about the nature of reality itself. Religions can have their rules, but as we think of the issue of representation as a broader metaphysical question, what the Commandment implies isnt just that you shouldnt make graven images, but that its literally impossible to do (or to make any image of a thing-in-itself). The map, to paraphrase Borges, isnt the territory. Any representation, and any statement about a particular representation (whether were speaking of painting or poetry, and so on) is a statement about the paradoxical tension between the impossibility of depicting anything-in-itself while we continue to depict things all the time. All representations  every painting, drawing, sculpture, or literary description  is strung between something and nothing, presence and absence, image and lacunae. To critically understand all issues of representation, which is to say all questions of art, literature, and so on, is to toggle between iconoclasm and iconophilism; what it requires is an iconological analysis.

Rachel F. Stapleton and Antonio Viselli write in Iconoclasm: The Breaking and Making of Images that All icons have their limits, their breaking points. It could be said that this includes iconoclastic images as well; that the complex, baroque, and rococo are in their own way acts of iconoclastic fury enacted against abstraction and minimalism. To read iconoclasm or iconophilism in an overly literal way  as simply image and the absence of image  is to fall into a trap. Any creation or destruction of an image entails an equal and opposite reaction, if you will. Kristine Kolrud and Marina Prusac write in Iconoclasm from Antiquity to Modernity that Iconoclasm depends on the power of image, and Id equally say that figurative representation depends on the potential of absence, on the haunting of nothing, on the possibility of non-existence. When I say that we must view art and read literature through the lens of iconological analysis, this is not an aesthetic value judgement that says minimalism or abstraction should be valorized at the expense of the figurative or literal  far from it. Its to say that any mode of representation can be understood as interpretable through both iconoclasm and iconophilism. Besancon implies something similar (albeit in a historical sense), writing that any triumph of iconoclasm or iconophilism is ambiguous secured by an unstable compromise whereby any theological resolution of the problem, which entails a reaffirmation of the Incarnation, does not of itself guarantee that the image expresses and realizes that goal of incarnation. Jackson Pollocks No. 5 has much to say about presence and representation; Francois Bouchers The Triumph of Venus equally has much to say about absence and abstraction. The central conceit of iconological analysis is to understand that every representation is haunted equally by absence and presence, not dissimilar (though neither reducible either) to Jacques Derridas observation in Positions about the systematic play of differences, of the traces of differences, of the spacing by means of which elements are related to each other.

Work No. 227: The lights going on and off had the potential to be the greatest work of this century not because radical minimalism is or isnt preferable to any other type of art  a work isnt greater because its simpler. Creeds piece could have achieved greatness, rather, because had it embraced the most radical of simplicities it would literalize the iconological tension that exists at the core of all representational work. As it is, no artist has created such a purely abstract work, one that would exist between the very space which separates atoms and words, a fully mystical work that is equal with sublime nothingness. Other media has embraced those paradoxes, none more completely than the American composer John Cages celebrated 433, which in its entirety consists of a single rest that endures for exactly four minutes and thirty-three seconds, the elevation of eternal silence to the realm of music. By skirting the edge of pure abstraction, 433 becomes a work played by everybody, everywhere, continually; it exists within every rest of every figurative song ever composed, it was played at the origin of the universe, it was played before that origin. Cages iconoclastic musical composition reminds us that this tension between presence and absence defines all representation, that is to say that it defines all aspects of reality except for those things-in-themselves. A gross error to assume that iconological analysis only applies to painting, or drawing, or the plastic arts, as 433 can testify towards.

With that in mind, its my contention that nothing more fully embodies the iconological principle about how representation must forever be in tension between presence and absence than specifically language  the literary arts. Languages paradox is that it so fully conjures intricately created worlds, but nothing is more abstract that arbitrary symbols on a page, ink stains on the pulp of dead trees. Theology has long intuited the stunning absences that lay at the heart of language, for theology is a very particular type of literature that ostensibly has as its purpose the description of something which is by definition indescribable. While most Christian theology, particularly in Western Christendom, embraces whats know as a kataphatic approach, whereby positive descriptions of the divine are privileged (i.e. God is good, God is great) there is a minority approach known as apophatic theology, whereby God is iconoclastically described in terms of negatives (i.e. God is not not good, God is not not great.) Apophatic theology is an iconoclasm of ideas and language, it asks the adherent to strip away all of the constructed debris which accrues onto our conceptions of the divine and to thus approach that mystery in a reverential silence. Still a normative strain in Eastern Orthodoxy, apophatic theology has venerable roots throughout the Christianity, traceable back to the Neo-Platonism of late antiquity, and explicated by thinkers like Pseudo-Dionysius the Areopagite, the Medieval philosophers John Scotus Erigena, Meister Eckhart, John of the Cross, and more recently by figures as diverse as Soren Kierkegaard and Ludwig Wittgenstein. Erigena provides as helpful a summation of apophatic thought as anyone, when he explains that We do not know what God is. God Himself does not know what He is because He is not anything. Literally God is not, because He transcends being.

Theology is a discourse of words, so that apophasis can credibly be expected to say something generally about language as much as divinity, which is to say that it informs literature and criticism (or that it should). Apophasis, in that it concerns itself with words, can be equally powerful as a means of secular literary criticism as much as it is a method of theology. William Franke writes in A Philosophy of the Unsayable that the unsayable is what repels language, yet it requires language of some kind in order to be described, so as to register at all, a succinct statement of the iconological tension. We see an investigation of that tension in aural and literary practices from glossolalia to asemic writing. He argues that a critic must cultivate an attitude toward words that is at once skeptical and fideistic  unconvinced by the pretended adequacy of words, yet acutely attuned to what they must miss grasping and passionately open to what they cannot say. What this gestures toward is the possibility of an apophatic literature and an attendant apophatic criticism (though perhaps the two are identical). This is to imagine the possibility of criticism which considers literature in a via negativa manner, and of works which function like a silent musical score, or as if theyre the vacant Holy of Holies or a non-existent light-bulb in an empty room. Consider, if you will, the possibility that there are an infinite number of literary works that exist beyond language, that can only be described by what they are not, for their contents are ineffable, their narratives unsayable, their characters unimaginable, their themes inconceivable. The literature of sheer impossibility. Now consider that the only literary criticism worth reading is that which attempts to use the inadequate feebleness of words to describe those books.

For what I suggest to you is that just as Creeds work is apophatic art, even more so Cages composition, we must imagine veritable libraries of texts that can only be described apophatically, and that dwells all around us, bolstering the existence of literature that is uninteresting enough to actually exist. Approaching that null point is to engage in theoretical reflection on the only true literature, which ultimately is the mind of God. The only worthwhile literary theory is enmeshed with that text. Such literature and theory are finally identical with itself, but as is the nature of apophasis we can pull back from the abyss a bit and shape some things into words, gesture towards ineffability even if such gestures are by their nature illusory. Let us turn to Giuseppe Ungaretti, the Italian modernist who despite his dubious political allegiances was able to compose a couplet of extreme parsimony that chimerically written in the apophatic mode  Millumino/Dimmenso, very roughly translated as I illuminate myself/with the immense. John Burnside writes in The Music of Time: Poetry in the Twentieth Century that this hermetic piece, almost impossible to translate into English [tries] to reconcile, or fuse, the individual, that which is finite, with the immense  we might say the infinite, or even, in a particular sense, the sublime. More than that, it marries presence and absence, nothing and the infinite, silence and cacophony, oblivion and immortality, into a glowing eternity. Like Creeds art, Ungarettis short poem is no more or less apophatic than any other work every produced, for we all dwell in that gap between what can be said and what is forever occluded. Words beyond words, for it points at that gap, and in that honesty, it gives intimations to the shrieking silence that lay beyond  the word of God.

***

Enjoying the content on 3QD? Help keep us going by donating now.
The Trump administration on Thursday blamed Biden-era vetting failures for the admission of an Afghan immigrant suspected of shooting two National Guard members in Washington DC, but the alleged gunman was granted asylum this year under president Donald Trump, according to a US government file seen by Reuters.

Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, entered the US on September 8th, 2021, under Operation Allies Welcome. The resettlement programme was set up by former Democratic president Joe Biden after the US military withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021 that led to the rapid collapse of the Afghan government and the country's takeover by the Taliban.

FBI director Kash Patel and Jeanine Pirro, the US attorney for the District of Columbia, both Trump appointees, said during a press conference on Thursday that the Biden administration had failed to conduct adequate background checks or vetting on Lakanwal before allowing him to enter the US in 2021.

Advertisement

Neither official provided any evidence to support their assertion.

Mr Trump said one of the two West Virginia National Guard members shot by an Afghan national near the White House had died, calling the gunman who had worked with the CIA in his native country a savage monster.

As part of his Thanksgiving call to US troops, Mr Trump said that he had just learned that Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, had died, while Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, 24, was fighting for his life.

Mr Patel said Lakanwal, who had worked with US government forces during the US war in Afghanistan, was improperly allowed to enter the US because "the prior administration made the decision to allow thousands of people into this country without doing a single piece of background checking or vetting".

The programme, which allowed more than 70,000 Afghan nationals into the US, according to a congressional report, was designed with vetting procedures, including by US counter-terrorism and intelligence agencies. But the large-scale and rushed nature of the evacuations led critics to say the background checks were inefficient.

Afghan suspect had worked with CIA

Under the Operation Allies Welcome programME, Afghans evacuated to the US were granted a two-year "parole" that allowed them to live and work legally and then apply for a more permanent status.

The document reviewed by Reuters said Lakanwal applied for asylum in December 2024 and was approved on April 23rd of this year, three months after Mr Trump took office. Lakanwal, 29, who resided in Washington state, had no known criminal history, the official said.

Advertisement

The government file on Lakanwal said he had been vetted by the US because of his work with US government partners during the war in Afghanistan, and no potentially disqualifying information had been found.

"This animal would've never been here if not for Joe Biden's dangerous policies which allowed countless unvetted criminals to invade our country and harm the American people," said Abigail Jackson, a White House spokeswoman.

CIA director John Ratcliffe said in a statement that Lakanwal had worked with CIA-backed local units in Afghanistan.

"The Biden Administration justified bringing the alleged shooter to the United States in September 2021 due to his prior work with the U.S. Government, including CIA, as a member of a partner force in Kandahar, which ended shortly following the chaotic evacuation," Mr Ratcliffe said. "This individual - and so many others - should have never been allowed to come here."

The shooting of US troops on American soil by an immigrant is likely to reverberate across the American political landscape. Mr Trump has already ordered the deployment of 500 more troops to Washington.

Trump narrative on immigration

While Lakanwal was in the country legally, the incident plays directly into Mr Trumps narrative on immigration. He has made cracking down on both legal and illegal immigration a centrepiece of his presidency, and this case may give him an opening to broaden the debate beyond legality to include closer scrutiny of the vetting of immigrants.

In a video message posted by the White House on Wednesday, Mr Trump called Lakanwal an "animal" and the shootings "an act of terror".

Advertisement

Mr Trump called for a "re-examination" of all Afghan nationals who entered the US during the Biden administration. All immigration applications by Afghan nationals were suspended by the Trump administration on Wednesday night.

World Trump vows to freeze migration from Third World Countries after DC attack Read more

US Department of Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement that the Trump administration would review all Biden-era asylum cases, expanding on a review of Biden-era refugees reported by Reuters earlier this week.

A source familiar with the matter said the suspension included applications by Afghans who had worked with the CIA.

The attack has also revived Trump administration criticism of the chaotic US withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021.

The withdrawal led to a collapse of the Afghan government that was much quicker than expected. The evacuation of thousands of Afghans fueled concerns by Republicans that potential terrorists could sneak into the US.
The callous killing of an iconic stag which was found beheaded in Co Dublin has been condemned.

The headless body of the stag, which was part of the deer herd at Newbridge Demesne, Donabate, was found on Thursday morning, according to Fingal County Council.

In a statement, the council said the stag had been killed overnight by intruders who had broken into the park.

The discovery was made when staff went to feed the herd of Irish Red Deer, they said.

A wonderful animal to behold close up. Its truly shocking that someone would carry out this act Tom O'Leary, mayor of Fingal

The stag, who was eight years old, was one of two in the herd.

Mayor of Fingal Tom OLeary described the incident as shocking.

I have visited this park area with my granddaughters who really enjoyed meeting the stag and deer, he said.

A wonderful animal to behold close up. Its truly shocking that someone would carry out this act.

Advertisement

I am appealing to anybody with information to contact the gardai or the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

It is illegal to kill deer without a licence and I hope that the perpetrators can be brought to justice.

Ivan Smith, foreman of Works at Newbridge House and Traditional Farm, added: We are absolutely shocked by this incident.

He was a lovely stag with a beautiful pair of antlers and was a big favourite with the public who walk through the park.

The council said the matter is currently being investigated by An Garda Siochana and the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

Anybody with information is asked to contact the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or email wildlifeenforcement@npws.gov.ie.
Five members of an Athlone family were found to have built up 366,000 in undeclared earnings and thousands of euros worth of designer clothes, a court has heard.

Carers allowance recipient, Christopher Joyce, 51, and his wife, 50, Julie Joyce, who is on disability allowance, their sons William, 27, and David Patrick Joyce, 28, and Williams 28-year-old wife Kathleen Reilly, all of Ardilaun, Athlone, Co Westmeath, pleaded guilty at Mullingar Circuit Criminal Court to money laundering from 2020 to 2023.

The father and his two sons also admitted drug-dealing charges.

The court heard their activities triggered a probe by Athlone gardai, which led to warrants to examine the five family members finances through their bank, credit union, and Revolut records.

Christian Louboutin, Louis Vuitton, Balenciaga, and Canada Goose dresses, coats, purses, runners and high heels were among the 30,000 cache of designer labels catalogued at their home.

Advertisement

They remain on bail will be sentenced in December.

Judge Kenneth Connolly heard how garda enquiries revealed that Christopher and Julie Joyce, parents to seven children, had received 165,000 in their various accounts.

Christopher had turned to drug dealing as a result of gambling debts and was ashamed, the court heard. His wife had suffered serious health problems.

David Patrick Joyce had received 38,294, William Joyce had picked up 61,000, and mother of two Kathleen Joyce had 101,000 transferred into her accounts over the same period.

The court heard in 2022 that undercover gardai contacted drug dealers on a particular mobile phone number or through Snapchat. Members of the Westmeath Divisional units sent a series of messages looking to buy drugs.

A garda arrived and met Christopher Joyce at a location in Athlone, and bought about 110 worth of cocaine from him, and another supply valued at 150 about two months later.

David Patrick Joyce, on three dates, sold three deals of cocaine, with a total value of 800.

Ireland Hospital apologises to woman whose tests went 'under-reported' and suffered cervical cancer Read more

Unemployed William Joyce sold 300 worth of cocaine to an undercover Garda on three days in 2022, and met him at the Midlands Regional Hospital in Mullingar for these transactions.

William was later stopped while driving and found to have 8,000 in cash. His brother, David, who owned a 16,000 Jeep, told gardai it was for buying a horse.

David Joyce had maintained he had been awarded about 80,000 over the years as a result of traffic accidents. The court heard he had a caravan worth 7,200 and that he had since started a roofing business.

Parked at the family home were a 35,000 Volkswagen car and a 40,000 Toyota Land Cruiser.
Dublin City Council has said that hundreds of flags erected across the city by anti-immigration groups will not be removed.

Instead, the council will launch initiatives to promote a deeper understanding of the Irish flag, according to the Irish Times.

The flags began appearing in August, with calls from councillors and members of the public for them to be removed.

Proponents of the flags say they signify patriotism and national pride; but opponents argue they are designed to intimidate immigrants.

The decision by the council follows concerns that any large-scale removal would provoke an angry response and could put council workers in danger.

Speaking on Newstalk, Sinn Fein councillor Daithi Doolan said people need to look at why they're putting up the flags in the first place: "I'm not going to demand other people put themselves at risk to take down the flags when I think the people who put them up themselves need to look at the state of some of those flags and take them down out of honor for the flag and our communities.

"And also what we don't want to do is put our foot on somebody else's landmine and be drawn into a battle with them which we can't win."
A 55-year-old Kerry man has been sentenced to life imprisonment for the violent murder of his wonderful and hardworking mother - described as someone who always had a smile for everyone - whom he strangled to death at her Killarney home three years ago.

Billy Burns had pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to the murder of his 75-year-old mother Miriam Burns, but a jury unanimously rejected that defence earlier this week.

The 12 jurors accepted the prosecution's case that the actions of 55-year-old Burns in killing his mother stemmed not from mental illness but from his "long-term abuse of drugs and alcohol" and anger towards his mother.

The trial heard that Burns had been aggressive and violent towards Ms Burns since he was a teenager and on one occasion broke her jaw.

Advertisement

Burns had denied to gardai any involvement in his mother's death, told lies about his movements on the day and made deliberate attempts to destroy evidence related to the killing, the prosecution had also argued.

Ms Justice Karen OConnor on Friday sentenced Burns to the mandatory term of life imprisonment.

Passing sentence, Ms Justice OConnor noted the familys decision not to provide a victim impact statement to the court.

'Unimaginable grief'

Ms Justice OConnor conveyed her condolences to Miriam Burns family, friends and neighbours who, she said, had displayed extraordinary dignity and composure at all times despite hearing heartbreaking evidence of the violent nature of their mothers death. She acknowledged the unimaginable grief for those left behind.

The judge said those present in court for the trial had received an insight into the type of person Miriam Burns was, noting that despite bringing up her family on her own, the 75-year-old always had a big smile for everyone and was always glamourous.

The judge said she got a strong sense that the deceased was a hardworking woman who looked after her family and was committed to all of them.

The love and grief this family feels was palpable during the trial, she said. Its a testament to the love she gave to all of you.

Evidence

The trial had heard evidence, she said, of the efforts made by Ms Burns son Shane in Australia and of her daughter Sharon to find out if their mother was okay.

Advertisement

Ms Justice OConnor said one could only imagine the shock Shane Burns must have felt when he was on the end of a phoneline and heard this desperate, desperate news.

She said Ms Burns had embraced technology and loved Netflix as well as Facetime and WhatsApp which, she said, allowed her to communicate with her family.

She was a woman who loved to chat no matter how busy she was, Ms Justice OConnor said. She was described in this trial as being the queen of communication.

The judge told Ms Burns family they had honoured her legacy throughout the trial process and would no doubt always honour the wonderful woman she was, the dignity she taught you and the values she had.

Miriam Burns was found dead at her home at Ardshanavooley, Killarney, Co Kerry on August 15th, 2022, when concerned family members asked neighbours to check on her.

It was the prosecutions case that Burns killed his mother some time between 10pm on August 12th and the early hours of August 13th.

Pathologist's report

A pathologist's report showed that she died from manual strangulation associated with blunt force trauma to the head.

During his trial, State Pathologist Dr Margaret Bolster described injuries to Ms Burns's face, neck, back and legs that were consistent with multiple blows, manual strangulation and possible suffocation.

Two psychiatrists differed on whether Billy Burns, who the trial heard was suffering a manic episode related to bipolar disorder when he killed his mother, qualified for a special verdict of not guilty of murder by reason of insanity.

Advertisement

Burns' treating psychiatrist Dr Eugene Morgan, who was called by the defence, told the trial that the 55-year-old was suffering from hypomania due to bipolar affective disorder and met the criteria for the special verdict.

Dr Stephen Monks, a consultant psychiatrist at the Central Mental Hospital, said that despite Burns's mental illness, he understood the nature and quality of his actions when killing his mother, knew it was wrong and was able to refrain from the killing.

The jury of eight men and four women at the Central Criminal Court took six hours and eight minutes to reject Billy Burns' plea of not guilty by reason of insanity.

The trial heard that Miriam Burns, a mother of four adult children, lived alone at Ardshanavooley. Two days before her death, Billy Burns returned to the Killarney area having spent time away.

He did not have a place to stay and lived rough in the Ross Castle area.

On August 12th, he called to his mother's home but the visit "ended badly", and a witness saw Billy Burns slamming his mother's front door and shouting at her: "You f*****g c**t."

Burns returned to his mother's house at about 10pm that night and remained there until the following morning.

He left his mother's home at about 7.30pm on a bike with a rucksack on his back and cycled back to Ross Castle where he lit fires at various locations in an attempt to destroy the items he had taken from his mother's.

Advertisement

DNA

The trial was told that garda forensic teams found the remnants of four fires in the Ross Castle area. Among the ashes of one fire, they found a small piece of fabric that matched the bloodstained night slip that Ms Burns had been wearing when she died. They also found a cushion with blood-staining that matched Ms Burns DNA in Billy Burns rucksack.

Burns was subsequently arrested and interviewed. When asked about allegations that he had killed his mother, Burns replied: "I didn't kill the bitch."

Sharon Kelleher, the defendant's eldest sibling, told the trial that their mother knew from experience that Billy could be dangerous, but she always tried to help him. Ms Kelleher said her mother "got the brunt of it" when the accused was coming down off drugs.

Before the sentence was passed, Detective Inspector John Kelly told prosecuting counsel Ronan Prendergast BL that Burns has 42 previous convictions, including for drugs, unauthorised taking, public order and road traffic offences as well as one for assault causing harm and production of an article.

The court also heard that the case against Burns consisted of witness evidence as well forensic and technical evidence and information garnered from more than 20,000 hours of CCTV examined by gardai.

Detective Inspector John Kelly confirmed to Mr Prendergast that prior the killing, Burns had sourced drugs including crack cocaine and cannabis and that the argument which took place between Burns and his mother on August 12th was likely related to the issue of money.
An Englishman who was caught with cannabis valued at almost 400,000 as he travelled through Dublin Airport has been jailed for four and a half years.

Daniel Munday (23) of Yew Tree Cottages, Knellers Lane, United Kingdom pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis for sale or supply on April 24th 2025.

He has no previous convictions.

Garda Jennifer Lynch told Dublin Circuit Criminal Court that a customs officer stopped Munday as he went through the blue channel at the airport after he was spotted acting in a suspicious and evasive manner.

An X-ray of his suitcase revealed vacuum-packed packages of cannabis valued at 398,700 and weighing 22 kg.

He initially gave a false name but later admitted he was to go to a hotel and wait to be approached. He gave an account of his own role in the offending.

Advertisement

Michael Hourigan SC, defending, said his client had a difficult upbringing with a backdrop of addiction and personal trauma.

He said Munday had written a letter outlining the background to this offence, which he handed into court. He also handed in a number of references.

He submitted his client had been under duress and pressure and said there was no suggestion of him receiving anything. He said this had not been a sophisticated offence, noting he had exceeded the normal baggage weight allowance and drawn attention to himself.

He said Munday has no links to Ireland at all. He said his client had previously worked as a plumber and been active in sporting endeavours.

Passing the sentence on Thursday, Judge Martin Nolan said he was satisfied Munday had been transporting and holding the drugs for third parties.

The judge said Munday had entered early guilty pleas and was unlikely to reoffend. He noted he had contributed to his local area and it seems he has a place to live with extended family

He imposed a prison term of four and a half years to date from when Munday went into custody last April.
A company owned by one of Britains richest men has won a landmark equality law appeal as the High Court has ruled a corporate entity is entitled to pursue a racial discrimination claim challenging the application of financial sanctions against Russia.

XTX Markets Technologies Ltd, owned by billionaire financial trader Dr Alexander Gerko, had a complaint under the Equal Status Act 2000 dismissed by the Workplace Relations Commission in 2023 on the grounds that it had no standing under the legislation.

The companys substantive allegation - that Aviva Investors Liquidity Funds PLC discriminated against it by refusing to let it buy in due to its association with the Russian-born Dr Gerko - may now be referred back to the WRC for a decision.

In 2021 and 2022, XTX had engaged with the Aviva investment fund about the provision of investment services, the High Court noted.

Advertisement

There was concern that the investment fund was barred from selling certain euro-denominated transferable securities  stocks and bonds  because of EU sanctions targeting Russian nationals and companies following the invasion of Ukraine.

Dr Gerko obtained British citizenship in 2016 and gave up his Russian passport in 2022, but was still a joint citizen of both nations at the time of the alleged discrimination, the court noted.

Ultimately, the fund refused to do business with XTX, citing the sanctions regime.

WRC adjudicator Valerie Murtagh was persuaded by the argument that XTX did not have standing to bring such a claim as a private limited company and found she had no jurisdiction to investigate the matter.

She noted that she was following a line of decisions dating back to 2008, when the Gloria LGBT choir was found by the Equality Tribunal to have no standing to pursue a claim against the Cork International Choral Festival.

The decision was affirmed on appeal to the Circuit Court, and XTX then pursued a further appeal to the High Court.

The central issue in the case was the way that the word person was used in the Equal Status Act.

XTX, represented by barristers Lorna Lynch SC and Owen Keany BL in the matter, took the position at the WRC that the word person ought to be interpreted as including corporate entities.

Kate Egan BL, for the investment fund, argued that the legislation appears to contemplate a corporate entity as a possible perpetrator of discrimination only.

Potential victims of discrimination could only be natural persons, it was further submitted.

Advertisement

At appeal stage, XTXs lawyers argued further that this restrictive interpretation was inconsistent with the European directive on racial equality, which specifically envisaged that the protections provided at national level would include protections for corporate entities against such discrimination

In her ruling, Ms Justice Siobhan Phelan wrote that while all of the protected characteristics shielded by the Equal Status Act were inherently human  but that they were clearly capable of attaching themselves to others, whether they were natural persons, corporate entities, or other legal persons.

She noted the argument that a legal person, like a company, could be discriminated against because it employs Muslims or gay and transgendered persons.

Fear of such discrimination on the part of an employer could lead to discriminatory practices in hiring, she added.

If the respondents stance on the definition of corporate personhood held sway, the judge wrote, a hypothetical company which lost out on business because it employed a person with a protected characteristic would have no recourse.

I am satisfied that a legal entity may have standing to bring a claim under the 2000 Acts, Judge Phelan wrote.

Far from suggesting a restricted field of application, however, the language, purpose and context of the legislation all support expansive provision for protection for discrimination and promotion of equality rather than the contrary, the judge added.

She wrote that her provisional view was that the ruling of the circuit court should be set aside and the matter should be referred back to the WRC for a full hearing.

The judge added that she would hear submissions from the parties on her final order in the matter if the same cannot be agreed.

Ms Lynch and Mr Keany were instructed by Ledwith Solicitors LLP for XTX in the matter. Ms Egan, for the investment fund, was instructed by A&L Goodbody.
The Irish arm of global tobacco giant, British American Tobacco, has reported that its nicotine pouch sales soared in Ireland last year.

PJ Carroll & Co Ltd's nicotine pouch sales increased almost fivefold to 29 million in 2024, up from 6 million in 2023.

The directors for PJ Carroll & Co Ltd confirm that sales of VELO delivered exceptional growth in 2024" where revenues from VELO increased by 442 per cent on 2023.

The firm only launched its VELO brand in June 2023, and it contributed 3 per cent of overall revenues that year.

The directors state that the VELO brand achieved a 45.9 per cent market share in 2024.

PJ Carroll and Co Ltds overall net revenues increased by 11 per cent from 30.53 million to 33.75 million.

The directors state that the revenues performance was driven by strong growth in VELO and continued Vapour momentum offsetting the decline in combustible volumes.

Advertisement

They said that although combustible volumes declined by 11 per cent on 2023 to 200m sticks, the business delivered strong value extraction through manufacturers' price increase in April 2024".

Combustibles revenue totalled 71 per cent of total business in 2024 compared to 75 per cent of revenues in 2023. Revenues from the sale of vapes increased by 2 per cent last year.

The firm achieved gross revenues of 179.43 million in 2024, which included 145.67 million in excise duties and other taxes.

Pre-tax profits at PJ Carroll & Company Ltd last year declined by 8 per cent to 5.69 million.

The sharp increase in sales of VELO comes against the background of the Cabinet giving approval to the Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, to develop a law to prohibit the sale to minors of nicotine products such as pouches.

The new law is also to prohibit the advertising of these products in all retail outlets and their display in mixed retail outlets.

Nicotine pouches are typically white and contain a powder made of the highly addictive chemical nicotine, flavourings and other ingredients. They are typically placed between a persons lip and gum.

This years Health Ireland survey found that 1 per cent of the population use nicotine pouches, with this rising to 3 per cent in the 15 to 24-year-old cohort. Men are more likely than women to use them, the survey said.

Belgium, France and the Netherlands have all introduced bans on nicotine pouches, while other EU countries are introducing or considering tighter regulation around the products.

Numbers employed at PJ Carroll & Co Ltd totalled 22 and staff costs totalled 1.3 million. Directors remuneration totalled 204,000.

A note states that the company is undergoing an audit of its tax affairs in the Republic of Ireland.

The note states that the company "has paid 1.2m to Irish Revenue subsequent to year end and which is provided for in these financial statements in relation to the tax audit".

The directors state that illicit and duty-free purchasing was a combined 37 per cent of the market in 2024, according to Revenue Commissioner's own figures.

Accumulated profits stood at 40.8 million.
A hotly tipped dystopian romantasy and a dinner party gone wrong lead this weeks line-up

Fiction

The Dinner Party by Viola van de Sandt is published in hardback by Tinder Press. Available now

Franca is a dropout from a prestigious Dutch university who, after a close friendship turns sour, uproots her life and moves to Londons South Kensington with the charming and wealthy Andrew. Struggling to find her place in this new world, simmering tensions and repressed traumas collide one cataclysmic evening when she is asked at late notice to pull together an extravagant dinner party on a sweltering summer night, with booze boosting the belligerence beyond boiling point. Viola van de Sandts debut novel is a powerful, provocative and often cringingly confronting study of female rage unleashed. Francas intoxicating tale is often darkly funny despite the subject matter, so, while there is plenty of discomfort in staying the course of this nightmarish soiree, you will want to stick around for the big twist that arrives before dessert.

8/10

Review by James Cann

To Cage A Wild Bird by Brooke Fast is published in hardback by Wayward TxF. Available now

Romantasy publishing has become a colossal success  even if some people are a tad snooty about it. Debut author Brooke Fast is entering the realm with a dystopian take that smacks of Hunger Games, but features some pretty graphic sex. Raven is a bounty hunter in Dividium, an area of post-second civil war US, where even the tiniest of crimes gets you packed off to Endlock, a prison where inmates are hunted to death by Dividiums wealthiest citizens. When Ravens younger brother is arrested, she must infiltrate the facility to save him, and then somehow break them both back out, without being murdered in the process. She needs help though, and a guard who keeps eyeing her up in all the wrong (and right) ways, may hold the answer. The peril feels suitably high, even if the security in Endlock is farcically poor, so Ravens trysts with her forbidden love do make you want to shout at the book, As IF that could happen, but for a few hours of sexy escapism, Raven is a dynamic heroine. The wait for book two is on.

7/10

Review by Ella Walker

All We Want For Christmas by Phillipa Ashley is published in paperback by Penguin. Available now



All We Want For Christmas is a typical feel-good seasonal book that ticks all the right boxes. Lara works in a castle in the Lake District and has recently gone through a rough break-up. Flynn is the castles new technical manager, who Lara first met at Halloween, but didnt know shed see him again at work one Christmassy day. What starts off as a friendship then blooms as Flynn slowly breaks down Laras walls and she eventually lets herself grow closer to him. The festive romcom stands out for its magical, fictional backdrop, Ravendale Castle, and for Ashleys writing. She really puts readers in the scene, especially with descriptions of a light trail and Winter Spectacular event being organised. It also has the perfect mix of drama, tension, snow and romance. This is a heartwarming story about two people who have been hurt before, allowing love in again.

8/10

Review by Sara Keenan

Non-fiction

Radical Cartography by William Rankin is published in hardback by Picador. Available now



Far removed from the stereotype of staid old scrolls on dusty library shelves, William Rankin offers a lavish, contemporary take on the importance of maps in an increasingly splintered world. Split into seven sections  Boundaries, Layers, People, Projections, Colour, Scale and Time  Radical Cartography charts the elements of map-making that are critical in shaping the viewers perception, and underscores the inescapable subjectivity that comes with representing mere statistics. Rankin presents an engrossing yet sometimes unsettling argument for the implications of those choices, in terms of the potential manipulation of public opinion, and its potential consequences. As Rankin shows, it is an argument that goes back to old world maps that put a central, outsized focus on Colonialist Europe. The timely highlight is Julien Bousacs map of Palestine, which renders the territory as a tranquil Archipelago of green islands, surrounded by a sea of blue.

8/10

Review by Mark Staniforth

Childrens book of the week

Robin by Sarah Ann Juckes, illustrated by Linde Faas, is published in hardback by Simon & Schuster Childrens UK. Available now

A courageous tale of a young boy finding his identity in a world where hes afraid to speak up or step out of the shadows. Eddie Loxleys life is tough, with concern over his sister Scarlets health as she often spends time in hospital, leaving their parents riddled with worry and Eddie not knowing how to deal with being a good brother and being himself, without feeling guilty. With no real friends to speak of, the apologetic Eddie feels like hes overlooked and ignored a lot. But heading into the woods and sharing his problems with the ancient trees there helps the youngster shed some of his burden. Soon enough he makes friends with a loyal robin, a wild girl called Mari and a brave boy at school called Richard, who all help him see his potential and find his voice. A beautiful story that will pull at your heartstrings.

9/10

Review by Karen Shield

BOOK CHARTS FOR THE WEEK ENDING NOVEMBER 22nd

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

HARDBACK (FICTION)

1. Brimstone by Callie Hart

2. When the Moon Hatched by Sarah A. Parker

3. Flesh by David Szalay

4. The Bond that Burns by Briar Boleyn

5. The Impossible Fortune by Richard Osman

6. Exit Strategy:Jack Reacher by Lee Child and Andrew Child

7. The Christmas Clue by Nicola Upson

8. Rose Field: The Book of Dust Volume Three by Philip Pullman

9. The Secret of Secrets by Dan Brown

10. Alchemised by SenLinYu

(Compiled by Waterstones)

HARDBACK (NON-FICTION)

1. Always Remember:The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, the Horse and the Storm by Charlie Mackesy

2. Book of Lives:A Memoir of Sorts by Margaret Atwood

3. Mary 90:My Very Best Recipes by Mary Berry

4. Private Eye Annual 2025 by Ian Hislop

5. Guinness World Records 2026

6. Dont Believe Everything You Think By Joseph Nguyen

7. Diddly Squat: The Farmers Dog by Jeremy Clarkson

8. A Mind of My Own by Kathy Burke

9. Seven Tenths Of A Second by Zak Brown

10. The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins and Sawyer Robbins

(Compiled by Waterstones)

AUDIOBOOKS (FICTION AND NONFICTION)

1. Harry Potter and the Philosophers Stone by J.K. Rowling

2. Brimstone by Callie Hart

3. The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins

4. Nobodys Girl by Virginia Roberts Giuffre

5. The Long Shoe by Bob Mortimer

6. The Impossible Fortune by Richard Osman

7. A Mind of My Own by Kathy Burke

8. Exit Strategy by Lee Child and Andrew Child

9. Quicksilver by Callie Hart

10. Flesh by David Szalay

(Compiled by Audible)
The number of race hate incidents recorded in Northern Ireland over the last year is the third highest on record, according to police figures.

Across the board, the number of race, sexual orientation and transgender identity incidents were up from October 1st, 2024 to September 30th, 2025 compared to the previous 12 months.

However crimes with race-hate motivation saw the biggest increase, according to the figures published on Thursday.

Police respond to violence in Ballymena in June 2025. (Niall Carson/PA)

The 12-month period included a period of rioting across Northern Ireland in June, which came after two Romanian-speaking teenagers were charged with attempted rape after allegedly sexually assaulting a teenage girl in Ballymena.

Across the 12 months, the Police Service of Northern Ireland recorded 270 more race incidents and 112 more race crimes.

They found the number of both race incidents (2,048) and race crimes (1,280) are the third highest 12-month levels recorded since the data series began in 2004/05.

Advertisement

Four of the five highest monthly levels of race incidents were recorded between June and September 2025 which coincides with disorder spreading from Ballymena, to Larne, Belfast and Portadown.

According to the statistics, the 347 race incidents recorded in June 2025 were the second highest monthly level in the data series, two lower than the 349 race incidents recorded in August 2024.

The number of sexual orientation incidents rose from 359 to 363 and crimes fell from 221 to 215, and transgender identity incidents and crimes rose from 61 to 68 and from 31 to 39 respectively.

Elsewhere, there was a decrease of five sectarian incidents, while the number of crimes rose by 22, disability incidents decreased by one from 78 to 77 and crimes increased from 42 to 45.

Faith/religion incidents and crimes fell from 109 to 76 and from 74 to 54 respectively.

Patrick Corrigan, Amnesty Internationals Northern Ireland director (PA)

Amnesty International slammed a shameful year and urged Stormont to author a new anti-racism strategy.

Patrick Corrigan, Amnesty Internationals Northern Ireland director, called for action.

This has been a shameful year of racist violence  from the targeting of families in Ballymena and other towns this summer to daily attacks on homes right across Northern Ireland, he said.

Behind every shocking statistic, there is a real person or family left living in fear.

Yet too many politicians have echoed anti-migrant misinformation that provides the backdrop to these attacks, rather than stand with the victims of hate crimes.

Meanwhile, the Executives under-powered 2015-25 Race Equality Strategy has been a dismal failure. It expires in a month, with no agreed plan in place to follow.

We urgently need a bold action plan to confront and dismantle the toxic prejudice that has been allowed to take root across Northern Ireland.
Israeli forces raided a Syrian village and opened fire when they were confronted by residents, killing at least 13 people, Syrian officials said/

The Israeli attack on Friday was the deadliest since its troops seized a swathe of southern Syria a year ago.

Syrias Foreign Ministry called the attack a horrific massacre and said women and children were among those killed.



A Syrian civil defence worker checks a house that was destroyed during an Israeli forces raid in the southern Syrian village of Beit Jin (AP photo)

The Syrian state news agency Sana said Israeli forces entered the village of Beit Jin aiming to seize local men and opened heavy fire after being confronted by residents.

Dozens of families fled the area.

Israel said on Friday it conducted an operation to apprehend suspects from the Jamaa Islamiya militant group in Beit Jin who were planning IED and rocket attacks into Israel.

Advertisement

It said other militants opened fire at the troops, injuring six, and that troops returned fire, including bringing in air support.

It said the operation had concluded, all of the suspects were apprehended and a number of militants were killed.

A local official in the village, Walid Okasha, told The Associated Press that those killed were civilians.

Among the dead were a man, his wife, his two children and his brother as well as another man who had gotten married the day before.

Firas Daher, a Beit Jin resident, told the AP that troops moved in around 3am and were met by slight resistance, with light weapons.



A woman holds a sign during a protest against an Israeli raid in the southern Syrian village of Beit Jin, in Damascus (Ghaith Alsayed/AP)

Troops responded with drones and helicopters and fire from heavy machine guns.

Whenever anyone would move inside the village or any car would move, it would get hit. When we tried to take injured people to the hospital, they would hit the car carrying them, he said.

Since the fall of former Syrian president Bashar Assad in December 2024, Israeli forces have held a slice of southern Syria that was previously a UN-patrolled buffer zone under a 1974 disengagement agreement.

Troops have regularly carried out operations in villages and towns inside and outside the zone, including raids snatching people it says are suspected militants.

Israel has also launched hundreds of airstrikes on Syrian military sites and pushed for a demilitarised zone south of Damascus.

Advertisement

Israeli raids have several times been met by armed local residents.

In April, troops raided the town of Nawa, and when confronted by residents, the military carried out airstrikes in the town, killing nine people.

A month earlier, Israeli forces killed six people in the village of Koayiah in similar clashes during a raid.



Syrian civil defence workers check a house that was destroyed during an Israeli forces raid in the southern Syrian village of Beit Jin (AP photo)

In a previous raid on Beit Jin in June, Israeli forces seized several people who they said were Hamas members  a characterisation disputed by residents  and killed a man whose family said had a history of schizophrenia.

Israel says it seized the 400-square-kilometer (155-square-mile) demilitarised buffer zone in southern Syria in a pre-emptive move to prevent militants from moving into the area after Islamist insurgents toppled Assad.

It says the move is temporary, but critics accuse Israel of taking advantage of Syrias turmoil for a land grab.

Israel still controls the Golan Heights that it captured from Syria during the 1967 Mideast war and later annexed  a move not recognised by most of the international community.

Syrian officials have condemned the Israeli incursions as a violation of Syrias sovereignty.
Charges against a man accused of shooting two National Guard members in Washington DC have been upgraded to first-degree murder, prosecutors said.

The announcement came after the death of one of the soldiers.

Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, 24, were taken to hospital in critical condition after Wednesday afternoons shooting and President Donald Trump announced on Thursday evening that Spc Beckstrom had died.

On Thursday morning, Rahmanullah Lakanwal faced charges of assault with intent to kill while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, but Jeanine Pirro, the US attorney for the District of Columbia, suggested the charges would be upgraded if either of the victims did not survive.

Ms Pirro said Lakanwal drove across the country to launch an ambush-style attack with a .357 Smith & Wesson revolver.

Advertisement

He initially faced charges of assault with intent to kill while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence.

Ms Pirro said its too soon to say what the suspects motives were.

People who knew the suspect say he served in a CIA-backed Afghan Army unit before migrating to the US.

The 29-year-old worked in one of the special Zero Units in the southern province of Kandahar, according to a resident of the eastern Afghan province of Khost, who identified himself as Lakanwals cousin.

He said the suspect was originally from the province and his brother had worked in the unit as well.

The cousin spoke to the Associated Press on condition of anonymity. He said Lakanwal had started out working as a security guard for the unit in 2012 and was later promoted to become a team leader and a GPS specialist.

A former official from the unit said Lakanwals brother was a platoon leader.

Lakanwal entered the US in 2021 through Operation Allies Welcome, a Biden administration programme that evacuated and resettled tens of thousands of Afghans after the US withdrawal from the country, officials said.

He applied for asylum during the Biden administration, but his application was approved under the Trump administration, #AfghanEvac said in a statement.

Lakanwal has been living in Bellingham, about 80 miles north of Seattle, with his wife and five children, said his former landlady, Kristina Widman.

In his address to troops on Thursday, Mr Trump said Lakanwal went cuckoo. I mean, he went nuts.

Advertisement

The president called Spc Beckstrom an incredible person, outstanding in every single way. The White House said he spoke to her parents after his remarks.

She enlisted in 2023, the same year she graduated high school, and served with distinction as a military police officer with the 863rd Military Police Company, the West Virginia National Guard said in a statement.

She exemplified leadership, dedication and professionalism, the statement said, adding that Spc Beckstrom volunteered to serve as part of Operation DC Safe and Beautiful, helping to ensure the safety and security of our nations capital.

Mr Trump used the announcement to say the shooting was a terrorist attack and criticised the Biden administration for enabling Afghans who worked with US forces during the Afghanistan War to enter the US.

The initiative brought roughly 76,000 people to the country, many of whom had worked alongside US troops and diplomats as interpreters and translators.

World Trump says one of the National Guard members shot in Washington has died Read more

It has since faced intense scrutiny from Mr Trump and others over allegations of gaps in the vetting process, but advocates say there was extensive vetting and the programme offered a lifeline to people at risk of Taliban reprisals.

On Wednesday night, the president called for the re-investigation of all Afghan refugees who had entered under the Biden administration.

The director of US Citizenship and Immigration Services Joseph Edlow said the agency would take additional steps to screen people from 19 high-risk countries to the maximum degree possible.

He did not name the countries, but in June, the administration banned travel to the US by citizens of 12 countries and restricted access from seven others, citing national security concerns.
Charges against a man accused of shooting two National Guard members in Washington DC have been upgraded to first-degree murder, prosecutors said.

The announcement came after the death of one of the soldiers.

Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, 24, were taken to hospital in critical condition after Wednesday afternoons shooting and President Donald Trump announced on Thursday evening that Spc Beckstrom had died.



National Guard are seen after two soldiers were shot near the White House in Washington DC (Evan Vucci/AP)

On Thursday morning, Rahmanullah Lakanwal faced charges of assault with intent to kill while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, but Jeanine Pirro, the US attorney for the District of Columbia, suggested the charges would be upgraded if either of the victims did not survive.

Ms Pirro said Lakanwal drove across the country to launch an ambush-style attack with a .357 Smith & Wesson revolver.

Advertisement

He initially faced charges of assault with intent to kill while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence.

Ms Pirro said its too soon to say what the suspects motives were.

People who knew the suspect say he served in a CIA-backed Afghan Army unit before migrating to the US.

The 29-year-old worked in one of the special Zero Units in the southern province of Kandahar, according to a resident of the eastern Afghan province of Khost, who identified himself as Lakanwals cousin.

He said the suspect was originally from the province and his brother had worked in the unit as well.

The cousin spoke to the Associated Press on condition of anonymity. He said Lakanwal had started out working as a security guard for the unit in 2012 and was later promoted to become a team leader and a GPS specialist.

A former official from the unit said Lakanwals brother was a platoon leader.



Streets are blocked after reports two National Guard soldiers were shot near the White House (Evan Vucci/AP)

Lakanwal entered the US in 2021 through Operation Allies Welcome, a Biden administration programme that evacuated and resettled tens of thousands of Afghans after the US withdrawal from the country, officials said.

He applied for asylum during the Biden administration, but his application was approved under the Trump administration, #AfghanEvac said in a statement.

Advertisement

Lakanwal has been living in Bellingham, about 80 miles north of Seattle, with his wife and five children, said his former landlady, Kristina Widman.

In his address to troops on Thursday, Mr Trump said Lakanwal went cuckoo. I mean, he went nuts.

The president called Spc Beckstrom an incredible person, outstanding in every single way. The White House said he spoke to her parents after his remarks.

She enlisted in 2023, the same year she graduated high school, and served with distinction as a military police officer with the 863rd Military Police Company, the West Virginia National Guard said in a statement.

She exemplified leadership, dedication and professionalism, the statement said, adding that Spc Beckstrom volunteered to serve as part of Operation DC Safe and Beautiful, helping to ensure the safety and security of our nations capital.

Mr Trump used the announcement to say the shooting was a terrorist attack and criticised the Biden administration for enabling Afghans who worked with US forces during the Afghanistan War to enter the US.

The initiative brought roughly 76,000 people to the country, many of whom had worked alongside US troops and diplomats as interpreters and translators.

It has since faced intense scrutiny from Mr Trump and others over allegations of gaps in the vetting process, but advocates say there was extensive vetting and the programme offered a lifeline to people at risk of Taliban reprisals.

On Wednesday night, the president called for the re-investigation of all Afghan refugees who had entered under the Biden administration.

The director of US Citizenship and Immigration Services Joseph Edlow said the agency would take additional steps to screen people from 19 high-risk countries to the maximum degree possible.

He did not name the countries but in June the administration banned travel to the US by citizens of 12 countries and restricted access from seven others, citing national security concerns.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced the resignation of his chief of staff Andriy Yermak, whose residence was searched earlier in the day by anti-corruption investigators.

Mr Yermak has been Ukraines lead negotiator in peace talks with Russia and the US, and he has been a trusted confidante of Mr Zelensky for years.

The unprecedented searches at the heart of Ukraines government come at a time when Kyiv is under intense US pressure to sign a peace deal nearly four years after Russia invaded.

In a nod to likely controversy over Mr Yermaks long stay at his side, Mr Zelensky said Russia was waiting for Ukraine to make missteps and upset the delicate and tense peace negotiations.

We dont have a right to retreat or argue between ourselves. If we lose unity, we risk losing everything, ourselves, Ukraine, our future, the Ukrainian leader said. We must unite, we must hold on. We have no other choice. We wont have another Ukraine.

Advertisement

Mr Yermaks name did not appear on a list of officials Mr Zelensky said would make up the Ukrainian delegation for the next round of negotiations with the US.

The president said: To preserve our internal strength, there must be no reasons to be distracted at anything else except for defence of Ukraine. I dont want anybody to be questioning Ukraine, and thats why we have todays decisions.

In his nightly address, he announced he was resetting the presidential office. He said Mr Yermak had submitted his resignation and he would begin consultations on Saturday to appoint a new chief of staff.

Two national agencies fighting entrenched corruption in Ukraine said their searches targeted Mr Yermak.

Oleksii Tkachuk, a spokesman for Mr Yermak, said the anti-graft agencies had not served a notice of suspicion, meaning Mr Yermak was not a suspect in an investigation.

Mr Tkachuk added that Mr Yermak had not been told what the searches related to.

Mr Yermak, a powerful figure in Ukraine and a key participant in talks with the US, confirmed that officials searched his apartment in the presidential compound in central Kyiv, where checkpoints limit public access.

Media reports said Mr Yermaks office was also searched, but investigators declined to comment on that.

The investigators are facing no obstacles, Mr Yermak wrote on Telegram. He added that he was co-operating fully with them and his lawyers were present.

The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office are leading a major investigation into a 100 million dollar (75 million) energy sector corruption scandal involving senior Ukrainian officials, which has dominated domestic headlines in recent weeks.

Advertisement

It was not clear if the searches were connected to the case and a spokesperson for the NABU, Anton Tatarnikov, declined to comment, citing legal restrictions on revealing details on an ongoing probe.

A spokesman for the European Commission, Guillaume Mercier, told Ukrainian local news station Radio Svoboda on Friday that they were following developments closely and the searches showed that Ukraines anti-corruption agencies were working.

He added that fighting corruption was central to the countrys European Union accession.

Investigators suspect that Tymur Mindich, a one-time business partner of Mr Zelensky, was the plots mastermind. He has fled the country, with any criminal proceedings against him likely to be carried out in absentia. Two senior government ministers have resigned in the scandal.

Two of Mr Yermaks former deputies  Oleh Tatarov and Rostyslav Shurma  left the government last year after watchdogs investigated them for financial wrongdoing. A third deputy, Andrii Smyrnov, was investigated for bribes and other wrongdoing but still works for Mr Yermak.

The scandal has heaped more problems on Mr Zelensky as he seeks continued support from western countries for Ukraines war effort and tries to ensure continued foreign funding. The European Union, which Ukraine wants to join, has told him he must crack down on graft.

He faced an unprecedented rebellion from his own legislators earlier this month after investigators published details of their energy sector investigation.

Although Mr Yermak was not accused of any wrongdoing, several senior legislators in Mr Zelenskys party said Mr Yermak should take responsibility for the debacle to restore public trust.

Advertisement

Some said that if the president did not fire him, the party could split, threatening his parliamentary majority, but Mr Zelensky defied them.

He urged Ukrainians to unite and stop the political games in light of the US pressure to reach a settlement with Russia.

Mr Yermak met Mr Zelensky over 15 years ago when he was a lawyer venturing into the TV production business and Mr Zelensky was a famous Ukrainian comedian and actor.

He oversaw foreign affairs as part of Mr Zelenskys first presidential team and was promoted to chief of staff in February 2020.

Mr Yermak has accompanied Mr Zelensky on every trip abroad since Russias invasion in February 2022, and the presidents trust in him has made Mr Yermaks power appear almost untouchable.

Domestically, officials describe Mr Yermak as Mr Zelenskys gatekeeper, and he is widely believed to have chosen all senior government appointees, including prime ministers and ministers.

Individuals connected to Mr Yermak and the presidents office have come under investigation before.
Advertisement

Sponsored BusinessCompaniesBulls N' Bears Runners of the Week: European Metals, Synertec, Enlitic & Latitude66 Brought to you by BULLS N BEARS Andrew Todd November 28, 2025  6:08pm 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 bulls are back in town, who would have thought? Less than four weeks till Santa and it looks like the fat man is already stuffing the markets stockings. A little over a week from every man and his dog predicting no rate cut till the new year, the market oracles have changed their minds yet again. One minute the United States treasury has rates on hold forever, the next minute a December cut is baked in at over 90 per cent. This weeks Bulls N Bears ASX Runner of the Week is European Metals. Last weeks bloodbath feels like ancient history as the S&P500 flirts with the prospects of the magical 7000-point mark and the AI bubble is beginning to look more like an impenetrable shotput. Even market doomsayers are struggling to find a scape goat for a reversal as Thanksgiving and Christmas look like they might become one extended holiday.

Advertisement

Precious metals have had a healthy bounce. Off all-time highs of $6700 an ounce, gold has consolidated nicely and looks to be on its next move north as Deutsche bank calls for $8300 by as soon as next year. Golds less well off cousin, Silver, has been on an even bigger tear. As inventories dry up the alternative precious metal is pushing all-time highs as it moves out of the yellow metals shadow and into the limelight. Back with the market darling though and critical mineral tungsten has quietly taken the reins, doubling from $500 per tonne a few months ago to more than $1050 this week. A fact not lost on major players EQ Resources and Tungsten Mining, both of which have doubled and then some in recent weeks. In a bit of a reality check to Australian markets the Chinese equivalent to Nvidia  Moore Threads  has pulled off the most over-subscribed IPO in living memory. Raising a casual $1.7 billion for its IPO wasnt going to be a problem after the book was 4126 times covered for a staggering $6.32 trillion dollars in potential capital. More than double the total size of the ASX if you dont mind. Just as everyone was certain the end was nigh last week, they are locked in now for a big finish to 2025 if the rug doesnt get yanked.

Advertisement

Last weeks Bulls N Bears Runners bunch is a proper mixed bag of liquorish all sorts. From zero emissions lithium dreams to zero-emission gas-field tech, AI and a cheeky WA gold play, all the flavours were there in last weeks list. European Metals monster Cinovec lithium-tin project straddling the Czech-German border in Europe. EUROPEAN METALS HOLDINGS LTD (ASX: EMH)

Up 150 % (22c  55c) The Bulls N Bears Runner of the week is rollercoaster lithium tragic European Metals after it secured provisional approval for a government grant worth up to a lazy $645 million to ramp its Cinovec lithium project into production. The grant is one of the single biggest direct project-level funding packages ever handed out for a critical raw materials play inside the European Union and has Cinovec already anointed as a strategic project of critical importance to the EU under its Critical Raw Materials Act.

Advertisement

It seems this long-time lithium hopefully is finally getting built, whether the lithium price likes it or not. The company says its grant reimburses up to 35 per cent of eligible capex in annual draw-downs, with the only real strings being that the project has to be finished by 31 December 2032. For a deposit thats been in the too-hard basket since the Howard government, this is effectively a giant green flag wrapped in cash. Cinovec is Europes largest hard-rock lithium resource with 7.2 million tonnes of lithium reserves straddling the Czech-German border in what the company says is one of the most mining-friendly corners of the continent. The plan is a monster integrated mine and refinery spitting out battery-grade lithium hydroxide for the German car industry that is currently sweating on Chinese supply.

Advertisement

Fridays announcement set fire to its share price that screamed to an intraday high of 55c, up 150 per cent from last weeks close of 22c on a huge $3.5 million-plus traded on the day. After a decade of studies, demos and more capital raises than living memory, European Metals finally has a war chest that isnt reliant on the spot price or dilution. Synertecs Powerhouse battery system that is set to bolster Shell QGCs coal seam gas operations in Queensland. SYNERTEC CORPORATION LTD (ASX: SOP)

Up 120 % (2c  4.2c) Pipped at the post for the last week is zero-emissions tech darling Synertec Corporation which locked in a flagship contract with Shells Queensland Gas Company (QGC) to land its Powerhouse renewable microgrid onto a working coal-seam-gas sites in Queenslands Surat Basin.

Advertisement

The deal marks the first time a major has officially backed the tech for a brownfields coal seam gas (CSG) operation and has now put Synertec on the map. The company says its Powerhouse system is a fully islanded, AI-controlled solar battery beast that runs 24/7 with zero fossil-fuel backup with zero unplanned outages. The deal locks in its system for an initial five-year deployment to prove its mettle in the energy big leagues. Its exactly the kind of thing upstream gas players need to hit their decarbonisation targets and keep protesters blocking off their tax paying roads. The deal is structured as a six-month BOOM (Build-Own-Operate-Maintain) trial with a flat monthly rental  basically a try-before-you-buy deal that lets Shell QGC kick the tyres before rolling the tech out Queensland wide. Delivery is slated for the end of next year, which means revenue kicks in almost immediately.

Advertisement

Curiously Tuesdays after-market saw a mysterious 40.5 million share crossing at 1.8c for $730,000 that had the punting fraternity instantly intrigued. Sure enough, Wednesday morning the Shell contract landed and the stock went full vertical from a 2c close to an intraday high of 4.2c for a 120 per cent gain on more than a million dollars worth of trading for the week. For a company thats spent years proving the tech in the field, this is the blue-chip validation the market has been waiting for. If the Powerhouse unit performs as advertised, expect follow-on orders to snowball across QGCs hundreds of wells  and probably across the gas industry-wide. Enlitics AI-imaging technology has been whitelisted by health technology major Royal Phillips as one of two products globally to manage its radiology imaging empire. ENLITIC INCORPORATED LTD (ASX: ENL)

Up 105 % (2.2c  4.5c)

Advertisement

Snagging the bronze medal in a photo-finish for the last week is medical-AI dark horse Enlitic, which woke from a slumber Tuesday to reveal it had been anointed one of only two approved vendors worldwide to provide AI-powered DICOM data-migration and workflow tools for health tech major Royal Philips entire enterprise-imaging customer base. Philips boatsts $32 billion in revenue, a $40 billion market cap and operates across more than 100 countries and is clearly the 800-pound gorilla in the radiology industry. The deal instantly plugs Enlitics ENDEX data-standardisation platform into thousands of hospitals, giving it a direct revenue pipeline into a radiology market that analysts peg between $54 - $120 billion and growing. ENDEX uses deep AI-learning to clean, de-identify and standardise messy imaging data during migrations or day-to-day workflows  the exact pain point hospitals face when upgrading systems or merging datasets. Enlitics stock surged on Tuesday, hiking from 2.2c last week to 4.5c by lunch time on $3 million-plus traded, for a 105 per cent gain from last week.

Advertisement

The company says the partnership opens the door to cross-selling Enlitics ENABLE module and potentially could provide deeper integration into Philips workflow suite. With global radiology AI spend forecast to compound at a mind boggling 30 per cent for the rest of the decade, Enlitic has gone from speculative side-hustle to genuine global player almost overnight. Latitude66s newly acquired Red Dog open pit deposit in the Laverton goldfields of Western Australia.

LATITUDE 66 LTD (ASX: LAT)

Up 90% (4.8c  9.1c) Rounding out the Runners podium with a handy acquisition last week is gold junior Latitude 66, which dropped two binding option deals to snatch an 80 per cent stake in its latest Laverton gold project.

Advertisement

The company says the deal covers some 17 granted mining tenements for 253-square-kilometres of prime real estate in one of the hottest gold addresses in the world, with the project boasting a tidy existing 13,500 ounce shallow JORC resource that looks ready to go. The main prospect is its Red Dog open pit, which was mined by Matsa Resources back in 2019 for some 12,704 ounce at a very handy 2.3 grams per tonne (g/t) from a flat-lying oxide blanket that starts just 3m below surface. That might sound skinny, but thats nearly $80 million worth of gold in todays figures and Latitude says the thing remains open in literally every direction. Previous drilling outside the old pit walls still holds some solid hits like 4m running at 7.3g/t gold from just 13m and 6m going 4.8g/t from 22 m. Throw in the nearby Tin Dog syenite-hosted system - also on a granted mining lease - and youve got a proper little starter-pack sitting just 7km from Brightstars Second Fortune mine and within easy trucking distance of no fewer than five operating mills.

Advertisement

The fast-track potential was not lost on Latitude which has swiftly moved to station a drill rig at the project before the ink had barely dried on the aquisition. The company recently banked a non-dilutive $6 million war-chest - $2m cash and $4m in Carnaby Resources scrip - from divesting its Queensland copper-ground leaving it cashed-up and motivated to get its rigs humming in a white hot gold market and address. Management says its first program is targeting immediate extensions to Red Dog and first-pass drilling at Tin Dog, with results expected just in time for Christmas. While Laverton was the shiny new toy stealing the limelight last week, it is worth remembering Latitudes Finnish projects still remain front of mind. The company holds some 650,000 ounces of gold and 5800 tonnes of cobalt at its flagship KSB and PSB gold-cobalt projects in Finland  at a handy grade of 2.7g/t gold in open pits.

Advertisement

Management has repeatedly said both Finland and WA are core, but for now, Laverton gives the company a near-term, high-margin cash-flow option that awoke the market last week. Lattitude66s shares took off on Thursday, ripping from Fridays 4.8c close to a high of 9.1c, up some 90 per cent on half a million dollars of strong volume. Red Dog could easily turn out to have plenty of bite left in it in an address with plenty of oxide gold and needy mills within a stones throw away. Is your ASX-listed company doing something interesting? Contact: mattbirney@bullsnbears.com.au

Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share More: Bulls N' Bears

Sharemarket

Shares
Advertisement

BusinessConsumer affairsGadgets Retro audio boom: Why cassettes and CDs have risen from the dead Elias Visontay November 29, 2025  4:37am 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 70 View all comments

Cassette tapes and CDs are joining the vinyl-led retro audio boom, driven by listener desire for physical media as well as the stronger revenue potential for artists, which have both been lacking in the streaming era. The return to physical audio technology has seen equipment to manufacture records, discs and tapes that was destined for scrapping instead restored and capacities ramped up across the country. Meanwhile overseas, production lines for devices that play the historic audio mediums are reopening, and local retailers are selling boombox and Walkman-like devices ahead of Christmas. Red Eye Records customer Aidan Mulholland looking through albums this week. James Brickwood Royalties and the record renaissance Since the mid-2010s, records have most noticeably led the renaissance in vintage formats.

Advertisement

Vinyl record manufacturing generated about $287.4 million in revenue in Australia between 2020 and July 2025, according to industry analysis from IBISWorld. CD duplication and replication accounted for $49.7 million. The Australian industry has steadily recovered from a dramatic low point where local manufacturing of records all but disappeared, forcing it to rely on just one vinyl pressing plant for much of the 2010s. In the years since, the number of pressing plants has tripled as listeners returned to vinyl, drawn in by nostalgia, the mediums warm analogue sound and its tactile and collectible qualities  qualities that are in stark contrast to the experience on Spotify and Apple Music. The feeling you get from putting on a CD, LP or cassette will always feel better ... than pressing a triangle on your phone. Matt Huddy, manager at Red Eye Records Over the past decade, vinyl sales have increased roughly tenfold. In 2012, Australians bought about 127,000 12-inch LPs, according to the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA). By 2024, that rose to 1,178,000.

Advertisement

Taylor Swifts The Life of a Showgirl cassette in Portofino Orange Glitter shell Taylor Swift The resurgence has also been driven by the paltry royalties paid by streaming platforms  Spotify pays between $US0.003 and $US.005 per stream. As a result, artists have leant into physical formats as a more reliable income stream and as a way to better connect with fans. Other artists, such as Melbourne band King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard, have pulled their music from Spotify (the band did it in protest at its founders links to the defence industry), adding to the appeal of their physical releases. Cassettes and CDs stacking up Records continue to be dominant, but CDs and cassettes are again populating display racks in shops and merchandise stands at gigs.

Advertisement

Aside from nostalgia and aesthetics, discs and tapes are more profitable and less risky for artists, said Scott Wilson, owner of Replicat, which manages music and merchandise manufacturing for independent labels and artists. Related Article Pop culture Sydney hardcore punk band takes out Australias most lucrative music award Fledgling bands and artists can order CDs and cassettes for as little as $6 each in production runs of 100, and commonly sell them for between $15-$30 to fans. Meanwhile, ordering 100 vinyl records will cost about $25 per unit, but routinely sell to listeners for between $50-$100. Vinyl records become much cheaper, down to $10, when production volumes increase. Cassette orders, for their part, can be turned around in two weeks, and can be done in runs of just 50, requiring minimal upfront risk for artists. Buying a physical album isnt just about the music  its about supporting the artist directly [and] owning a keepsake, Wilson said.

Advertisement

Matt Huddy, manager at Sydneys Red Eye Records, said that while records had overtaken CD sales in the last decade, demand was now split roughly evenly between the two. He put that down to price, saying younger customers, including teenagers who cant afford vinyls, still want to buy something physical to support their favourite artists. Well always be tactile creatures and the feeling you get from putting on a CD, LP or cassette will always feel better and more of a connection to the music youre playing than pressing a triangle on your phone, Huddy said. Ownership of physical media plays a part too; it becomes a part of who you are. Musicians can also take advantage of new colours and materials. Taylor Swift released her latest album The Life of a Showgirl in multiple collectible variations, such as a Portofino Orange Glitter cassette, and vinyls in Summertime Spritz Pink Shimmer and Yellow Sparkle Vinyl, with exclusivity deals to different retailers. Jarrah Saunders duplicating cassettes at Dex Audio in Melbournes Kensington. Jason South

Advertisement

Cassettes in bright colours are also common among other modern artists releasing on the medium, such as Dua Lipa, Charli XCX, G Flip, Royel Otis and The 1975. Production lines reopened Cassettes are a medium that local artists almost lost entirely. Dex Audio, in Melbournes Kensington, was Australias last remaining high-quantity cassette-duplicating business, and its machines were largely unused through much of the 2010s. Its funny, about eight years ago, I was looking to make some space in the warehouse here and we had all this surplus cassette equipment just gathering dust, I was about to call the scrappers but then our manager intervened and said Ive just had an inquiry for a cassettes, recalls Greg Williams, who co-founded Dex in 1978. The business is also Australias only manufacturer of CDs and DVDs. There are fans buying the records, CDs or cassettes of their favourite artists, and they may not have anything to play them on. Scott Wilson, owner of Replicat

Advertisement

Williams restored the equipment, drew up a price list and trained staff to duplicate tapes. While orders are nowhere near the 300,000 per month they once produced in the mediums 1980s heyday, Williams expects to produce 10,000 audio cassettes over the next month, in what is one of the busiest times of the year ahead of Christmas and bands touring. Its been increasing recently. People expect to see it as merch at a show, he said. Weve got a whole new generation who havent experienced tapes before, and what stimulates them is colour. Were doing a lot in primary colours now, they want them to pop. The kids are taking ownership of tapes, putting their own stamp on the medium, and I kind of like that, Williams said. Cassettes produced at Dex Audio in Melbournes Kensington. Jason South However, young fans of artists who are releasing physical formats are bumping into a bizarre problem: most dont own devices on which to play them. Even CD players have vanished from most modern cars.

Advertisement

There are fans buying the records, CDs or cassettes of their favourite artists, and they may not have anything to play them on, said Wilson. Teenagers buying cassettes are also finding they dont have the tools traditionally used to rewind them: pencils, after all, are less common in the digital era. Weve seen young artists selling audio cassettes with a free pencil to fans, said Wilson. Procuring a player can be tricky  Dex Audio frequently receives queries about repairing second-hand machines  so cassette and CD player manufacturing has been revived as a result. We Are Rewind, a personal Bluetooth-enabled cassette player recently put into production. We Are Rewind Retailers including JB Hi-Fi now advertise a range of cassette and CD players, in addition to selling new releases on the format. While the retro boombox and Walkman designs are popular, other players have new features such as integrated bluetooth so they can be used with wireless headphones.

Advertisement

One of those manufacturers is French company We Are Rewind, whose products are sold at JB Hi-Fi. Every time I talk about what I do to people I meet, they open their eyes wide and say, Really? Thats crazy, the cassette is actually coming back?  said Romain Boudruche, its chief executive. The company, which started in 2019,expects to sell up to 20,000 of its Bluetooth-enabled brightly coloured players, which include personal devices and boombox speakers, next year. Its customer base is split between 50-60 year olds wanting to play their old tapes, and a much younger generation who first discovered the older tech through shows such as Stranger Things, said Boudruche. Sydneys Red Eye Records is expecting a busy sales period leading into Christmas. James Brickwood Given all the new fans, stores must stock diverse tastes. Classics such as Fleetwood Macs Rumours and Pink Floyds Dark Side of the Moon always sell well at Red Eye, Huddy said, and ahead of this Christmas, new releases from Rosalia and alternative indie band Geese are expected to sell out. Ultimately, its about being prepared for any music fan to walk in excited to grow their physical music collection. You could be selling a [rapper] NAS LP followed up with Beethovens 7th. The Business Briefing newsletter delivers major stories, exclusive coverage and expert opinion. Sign up to get it every weekday morning.
Advertisement

CultureBooksReview Zadie Smith on creativity, politics and falling out of a window Thuy On November 28, 2025  2:30pm 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

Whats good, whats bad, and whats in between in literature? Here we review the latest titles. See all stories .

ESSAYS

Dead and Alive

Zadie Smith

Hamish Hamilton, $36.99 Zadie Smith has written six novels, the first  White Teeth, published when she was in her early 20s, was an instant bestseller. The others received varying degrees of commercial and critical success. In time, she also followed suit with essays and short stories. Dead and Alive is her fourth non-fiction work and displays the same erudition and elegance of her previous essays. These 30 contributions are wide-ranging, with tributes to writers including Martin Amis, Philip Roth, Hilary Mantel and Joan Didion, and excursions into book, art and film criticism. Theres also a love letter to New York, a rumination about the meaning of agelessness and ideas about the craft of writing. As with any random assortment of essays, some pieces will resonate with the reader more than others. If particular subjects dont interest, Smith offers the gracious reminder in the foreword that within the covers of this book, you have freedom of movement, and this freedom is absolute. The collection opens with a couple of surveys into particular objets dart, wherein Smith also riffs about the pesky white male gaze, exoticisation, fetishisation and the Eurocentric view. She then does a deep dive into the Tar movie (2022), starring Cate Blanchett as a conductor, who also happens to be in crisis and the least fashionable [one] on earth: the midlife kind. As a fellow Gen Xer (Smith is 50), her take on the Tar character is both empathetic and excoriating: The old are vampiric. The old hoard resources. They use status and power and youth itself to distract themselves from the inevitable, but then another salvo to ponder: Why do female ambition and desire have to be so monstrous?

Advertisement

With her astute eye and wry commentary, Smith is as nimble a visual arts and movie critic as she is a literary one. One of the highlights of Dead and Alive is a nuanced take on representation in fiction. Instead of the troubling cultural appropriation term, what if, she posits, we think of it as interpersonal voyeurism or profound other-fascination. It may prove provocative to some readers, but Smith does not believe in the notion that we can and should write only about people who are fundamentally like us: racially, sexually, genetically, nationally, politically, personally. Shed never have written any of her books if shed held firm to that dogma, she points out. After all, storytelling is an invitation to inhabit a hypothetical space in which you have imagined access to whatever is not you. In the end, surely its up to the reader to decide on the plausibility of the characters presented before them. Smith is as fine an essayist as she is a novelist. Getty Given the authors Jamaican-English heritage, its not surprising that there are essays about race: a survey of a book about Black England, a foreword to a study of African American culture in New York and an insight into black freedom of expression as seen through the work of artist Kara Walker. But Smith is also politically expansive, with contributions on Trump, Gaza and the 2024 British and American elections. Elsewhere, there is a series of obituaries that are lively and entertaining snapshots of various influential men and women of letters. She may not agree with various aspects of Amis, Roths or Morrisons oeuvre or personal beliefs, but Smith opines, Whenever I consider the very many writers who have left their mark on my own writing in one way or another, I am reminded you do not need to be perfectly aligned with somebody to be in their debt

Advertisement

Related Article Literature Celebrities raved about her debut novel. Now Madeleine Gray is back Dead authors aside, lest you think these essays are all lofty and serious-minded, fear not, Smiths sense of humour is very much alive. Her account of how her sulky, slovenly teenaged self fell 12 metres out of her window is hilarious in its retelling of the angsty world-view of this petulant klutz. Whether its consternation about the ubiquity of smartphones, (We have decimated what was left of our kids privacy: they are entirely porous to the world, even in the seclusion of their rooms) and Metas monetisation of teen boys versus girls (harder for the former because self identity and the product is more easily tied to the latter), Smith is indubitably as fine an essayist as she is a novelist. The way her sentences flow and her arguments coalesce make it seem like essay-writing is easy, but interestingly enough, the author believes fiction is more challenging. Everyone has opinions and everyone loves to air them. Fiction for me is about attending to everything that isnt me. Thats harder. The Booklist is a weekly newsletter for book lovers from Jason Steger. Get it delivered every Friday.
Advertisement

Updated NationalAviation Chaos, cancellations at Australian airports as A320 Airbus planes recalled worldwide Chris Zappone and Alexander Darling Updated November 29, 2025  2:33pm ,first published November 29, 2025  7:36am 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

Thousands of Australian travellers flight plans have been thrown into chaos after aerospace giant Airbus flagged a problem affecting 6000 planes. Jetstar has cancelled or delayed 90 flights while rolling out urgent software updates to 34 of its planes. Loading Overnight, Airbus ordered airlines to undertake software modifications on its A320 after it discovered the risk of errors in its flight control being triggered by intense solar radiation.

Advertisement

The problem first came to light when an October 30 JetBlue flight flying from Cancun, Mexico to Newark, New Jersey experienced a drop in altitude, forcing it to make an unscheduled stop in Tampa, Florida. Related Article Analysis

Aviation Airbus A320 grounding to have ripple effects for days Airbus said that 85 per cent of the affected aircraft require data uploading that can be completed in a matter of hours. For the remaining 15 per cent, a hardware change is required. Airbus is working to accelerate delivery of the hardware to affected airlines, a spokesman said. Many Jetstar flights from Sydney to Victorias Tullamarine and Avalon airports, Adelaide, Perth and Hobart were cancelled on Saturday morning. Crowds at the Jetstar check-in area at Melbourne airport had reduced somewhat by early Saturday afternoon. Jetstar said that as of 3.30pm (AEDT) on Saturday, 20 of the 34 affected aircraft were ready to return to service. Were expecting the remaining to be ready overnight, allowing flights to resume as planned on Sunday, November 30, a spokesperson said.

Advertisement

There may be some flow-on delays or cancellations on Sunday as the network fully recovers. Perth Airport said the recall would also affect Western Australia, and urged passengers to check with their airlines as the situation developed. The cancellations have caused disruptions for thousands of year 12 leavers intending to travel to the Gold Coast and Byron Bay for schoolies week. Passengers queueing at Melbourne Airport on Saturday after the Airbus emergency alert. Jason South Eighteen-year-old Tom Feeney, from Malvern in Melbourne, and five friends booked their accommodation for this weeks schoolies festivities at Byron Bay two years ago, and the flights to Ballina  the closest airport  last January.

Advertisement

After arriving in Sydney, they discovered the flight to Ballina was cancelled. On Saturday morning, they were waiting at Sydney Airport for a flight to Brisbane, the only flight they could get. Oli Gill, Alex Marchesani, Henry Willee, Tom Feeney and Oscar Sorell wait at Sydney Airport on Saturday for a flight to Brisbane. Julie Power A friends mother has organised an UberXL from Brisbane to Byron. We got lucky, Feeney said. Quite a lot of people were trying to get a seat, but there are literally none left. At Melbourne Airport, the line for the Jetstar service desk snaked 100 metres through Terminal 4 as a handful of staff rushed around to manage the crowds. Nikki Anderson and Dee Hovey got up early to drive from Berwick, in Melbournes south-east, for a flight to Queensland, where their children will play in a basketball tournament this week, but their flight was cancelled on Saturday morning.

Advertisement

We got spray tans for this, Hovey said light-heartedly as the pair waited in line, hoping to get a later flight to Brisbane. Thousands of Jetstar passengers are affected by cancellations, including Nikki Anderson and Dee Hovey from Berwick. Jason South Luckily, their boys flew with Virgin and were unaffected by the Airbus recall that has caused chaos for Jetstar. Anderson suggested the budget airline should put on some drinks for the parents of the schoolies affected by the disruption. Mums have worked their arse off all week to get the house clean, food in the fridge, everyone else packed, she said. The mums have done it hard to get here, and now the mums are impacted!

Advertisement

In the noisy Melbourne terminal, Jetstar chief pilot Tyrone Simes said about 90 flights had been affected on Saturday. Explaining the problem, he said a flight control computer on board the affected planes had shown an anomaly. He said this was a result of a recent software upgrade, which now had to be reversed on each aircraft before they could fly again. The updates take two to three hours.

Advertisement

We have 85 [A320] aircraft [in our fleet]. However, only 34 of the aeroplanes have this anomaly identified. Thousands of people, including these Sydney travellers, have had their plans upended by the nearly 100 flight cancellations on Saturday morning. Sitthixay Ditthavong Melbourne Airports chief of aviation, Jim Parashos, said all hands were on deck to help Jetstar. We have engineers taking a look at the aircraft on the ground, and we will get them on their way as soon as we can, he said. Ive spoken to a lot of travellers that are heading up to Byron and the Gold Coast [for schoolies]. We appreciate their frustration, but theyve been very understanding.

Advertisement

Sydney Airport said it was supporting Jetstar as they work to resolve the issue and strongly advise all Jetstar customers to check their flight status with the airline before travelling to the airport. Travellers trying to get to schoolies on the NSW-Queensland border are among those affected by Saturdays disruptions. Sitthixay Ditthavong AirAsia flies A320s to Perth, Adelaide, Darwin and Bali. Bo Lingam, group chief executive of AirAsia, said: We are taking immediate steps to comply with the Airworthiness Directive and aim to complete the process within the next 48 hours. Footage from Melbourne Airport on Saturday morning showed crowds and chaos as passengers tried to figure out what was happening with their flights. Saturday mornings delays in Australia also come after a fire forced the evacuation of Melbourne Airports Terminal 1 on Friday night.

Advertisement

At Sydney Airport, domestic Terminal 2 was extremely crowded by 10.30am. Virgin Australia operates only four A320s, all of them in its regional Western Australia business. The Brisbane-based airline expects to cover any disruptions with its existing capacity in its Boeing 737 fleet. A sobering sight for travellers. Sitthixay Ditthavong A Qantas source said that while it had some A320s in WA, the issue was not affecting its aircraft. Air New Zealand said it expects service to return to normal by Sunday evening.

Advertisement

We currently anticipate a total of around 20 cancellations across today and tomorrow, with our schedule expected to return to normal by Monday, said chief safety and risk officer Nathan McGraw. Customers travelling today and tomorrow should continue to check the Air NZ app or website for the latest information on their flight, he said. There are 2274 Airbus A320s in service in the Asia-Pacific region, more than any other single region globally, according to Cirium, an aviation analytics company. The setback appears to be among the largest recalls affecting Airbus in its 55-year history and comes weeks after the A320 overtook the Boeing 737 as the most-delivered model.

Advertisement

There are about 11,300 A320-family jets in operation, including 6440 of the core A320 model, which first flew in 1987. Inside an Airbus A320-200 aircraft cabin. Getty Images Earlier, Airbus released a statement saying a recent event involving an A320 family aircraft has revealed that intense solar radiation may corrupt data critical to the functioning of flight controls. Airbus said it subsequently identified a significant number of its aircraft that may be affected. Overseas, the worlds largest A320 operator, American Airlines, said some 340 aircraft  70 per cent of its A320 fleet  would need the fix.

Advertisement

In Colombia, the recall is also affecting 70 per cent of the airline Aviancas fleet. The airline has closed ticket sales until December 8. Other airlines said they would take planes briefly out of service for repairs, including Germanys Lufthansa, Indias IndiGo and UK-based easyJet. With Mary Ward, Julie Power, Lachlan Abbott, Rebecca Peppiatt and Reuters Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.
Advertisement

An 18-year-old has been charged with the murder of a 28-year-old man who was shot dead in Sydneys west on Friday morning. The teenager appeared in court on Saturday, where he was refused bail. Another man, aged 25, is in hospital with minor injuries under police guard after the shooting. Emergency services found Mal Seve, 28, with gunshot wounds to his neck, chest and leg after responding to reports of a shooting on Carinya Street, Blacktown, about 11.50am on Friday. Loading

Advertisement

Seve was treated by paramedics but died at the scene. Police were unable to stop a black Mazda ute from fleeing the scene, and pursued the vehicle before it crashed on nearby Kildare Road. The men allegedly ran from the scene and were arrested a short time later. As well as being charged with murder, the younger man was also charged with taking and driving a vehicle without the consent of its owner, driving dangerously, and failing to stop for police. Mal Seve was shot dead in Blacktown on Friday morning. Nine News His case will next be heard at Blacktown Local Court on January 29.

Advertisement

Blacktown Police Area Commander, Superintendent Brendan Gorman said Seve and both men in custody were known to police, and that any potential underworld links would be explored as part of an investigation. He said police heard the gunshots as they were fired, and were on the scene within seconds, leading to the arrests of the alleged offenders within a very short time after the shooting. Forensic officers found two unloaded guns and bullets dumped in front of a suburban home about 300 metres from the shooting. A handgun is photographed by police forensics outside a home on Kildare Road, Blacktown. James Brickwood A witness, electrician Mohammed Hamdan, said when he heard about five bangs, he knew immediately they were bullets.



Im from Palestine, Gaza, said Hamdan, who arrived in Sydney two years ago.

Advertisement

I have heard this sound before, but here in Australia, this is the first time I have experienced something like that. A ute seen crashed near the scene of a fatal shooting in Sydneys west. Nine News It was a war zone when I last heard something like this. Hamdan said he was eating lunch only 50 metres from where the shooting took place, inside a community centre. When he ran out onto the street after hearing the bullets, he saw someone fleeing on foot.



The sound was so strong, he said. I saw police cars here near the entrance, and someone running and jumping the fence. Get alerts on breaking news as it happens. Sign up for our Breaking News Alert.
Advertisement

Exclusive NationalVictoriaBuilding Bad Fair Work chief launches scathing attack on Allan government over inaction on construction crime, corruption Nick McKenzie November 28, 2025  4:09pm 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 nations union and employer group watchdog has called out Victoria and the Allan governments infrastructure projects for hosting more alleged corruption, intimidation and union and bikie standover activity than any other jurisdiction in the country. In a rare and explosive public intervention, Fair Work Commission chief Murray Furlong has also attacked Australias biggest government infrastructure contractors  which are earning billions of dollars from taxpayers  for their entrenched failure to act on the corruption and lawlessness that has seen the all-powerful CFMEU enter administration. Fair Work Commission general manager Murray Furlong. Rhett Wyman Furlong also identified multiple landmark government projects allegedly infiltrated by criminal or unlawful behaviour, including Victorias North East Link, Suburban Rail Loop and Metro Tunnel, the Western Sydney Airport and corresponding rail link, and in Queensland, the Gold Coast light rail. The move by Furlong, an avowedly apolitical public servant, to call out Victoria and the so-called tier one contractors working across Australia on major state and federal projects highlights his frustration as the most senior public servant driving the once-in-a-generation efforts to clean up the construction sector.

Advertisement

In a speech to an industry conference on Friday, Furlong praised the work of CFMEU administrator Mark Irving, KC, which has led to up to two dozen officials and staff being forced out of the unions Victorian branch in the last fortnight, as well as over two dozen forced redundancies over the last few months at branches in NSW, Queensland and other states. Irvings torching of certain factions responsible for transforming Australias most powerful union into the countrys most corrupt and lawless was preceded by the sacking of CFMEU bosses last year  in direct response to this mastheads ongoing Building Bad series  including bribe-taking NSW chief Darren Greenfield and those loyal to disgraced ex-union strongman John Setka. The CFMEU has been placed into administration. Joe Armao However, in contrast to his support of Irving, Furlong was scathing of industry and government inaction. His presentation included a slide titled: The behaviour you walk past is the behaviour you accept. Mr Irving and his considerable efforts need to be matched by all other major participants in the industry. This includes tier one builders, their clients and funders, major contractors, employer associations and other unions, in addition to state and Commonwealth governments, he said.

Advertisement

This is a once in a generation opportunity to reform behaviours across the industry  for the benefit of all industry participants, and our community more broadly. Furlong revealed the Fair Work Commission had collected and triaged over 1050 complaints of industry misconduct, spanning allegations of coercion, corruption, bribery, extortion, union stand over activity, sexual harassment and criminal infiltration, outlaw motorcycle gang involvement and control, and supply of illicit drugs on sites. The North East Link construction site in Melbourne. Jason South Over 600 of these reports relate to alleged conduct on construction sites located in Victoria, he said, followed by Queensland and NSW. There is a significant and disproportionate over representation of alleged illegal conduct on construction sites located in Victoria  so approximately 60 per cent of all reports coming from the one state.

Advertisement

Most of the alleged conduct falls outside my jurisdiction, so I have shared this information with other regulators, law enforcement agencies and other government bodies. Related Article Exclusive

Building Bad Violence, betrayal and intimidation: Insider blows whistle on reality of CFMEU While stressing most of the allegations were as yet unproven, Furlong said they had been very important in shedding further light on the scale of the issues and that state and federal government funded infrastructure projects featured heavily in the allegations of crime and corruption. This over representation in Victoria is consistent with what we have observed in relation to reports of alleged illegal conduct on government funded projects across the country. Of the 95 reports that identified a project by name that we are aware has received government funding, more than 45 per cent relate to projects in Victoria. Furlongs frustration builds on the view held by dozens of industry watchers who have briefed this masthead over the last year and include senior unionists, law enforcement officials and building company figures.

Advertisement

While they all acknowledge police agencies in Victoria and, to a lesser extent NSW, have stepped up efforts to combat crime in the construction sector, governments in both states remain unwilling to fully and thoroughly confront the corruption deeply embedded in taxpayer-funded major projects. The Allan government has been particularly resistant to a broad royal commission style inquiry  which is underway in Queensland  despite its so-called Big Build infrastructure projects being linked to the bulk of allegations of wrongdoing on taxpayer sites. The Victorian Liberals have promised a royal commission into the CFMEUs misconduct and influence on Big Build projects if they win next years state election. Furlongs most pointed criticism was reserved for major government contractors.

Advertisement

While he didnt name any specific players, this masthead has previously reported how almost all of the tier-one contractors  which include Webuild, Lend Lease, Laing ORourke, John Holland and Acciona  have been variously accused of enabling or failing to adequately respond to union corruption or organised crime infiltration. Related Article Exclusive

Building Bad Famous football club at centre of corruption, conflict-of-interest claims In NSW, multinational giant Webuild stands accused of turning a blind eye to serious alleged corruption on the Western Sydney Airport metro project, while multiple tier-one companies working on Victorias rail level-crossing projects acquiesced to union demands to install bikie gang members on projects. Furlong was scathing of what he called the activities and inactivity of tier-one builders. In my 25 years, I have not observed any discernible, consistent leadership from this cohort to actively contribute to fixing the endemic issues that have persisted for decades, he said.

Advertisement

The size of these builders and their boards, management and legal and compliance units provide a heightened ability and, I would say, responsibility to start showing conspicuous leadership  to start proactively contributing to the solutions, and stop relying on the actions of others. I am hopeful they will step up soon. Speaking at a press conference for the Metro Tunnel on Friday, before Furlongs remarks, Victorian Transport Infrastructure Minister Gabrielle Williams insisted the government was doing everything possible to make sure work sites were safe and behaviour met community standards. We accept that there is a very broad body of work going on, not only here in Victoria and led by the state and our partners, but also nationally, she said. I expect it will take a bit of time. Be the first to know when major news happens. Sign up for breaking news alerts on email or turn on notifications in the app.
Advertisement

NationalWACourts Double life: Perth man who hacked into womens personal data using evil twin WiFi jailed Rebecca Peppiatt November 28, 2025  4:37pm 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

A Perth father-of-threes double life has been revealed in court as he was jailed for using his IT skills to hack into the personal data of scores of unsuspecting women. Michael Clapsis, 44, was sentenced on Friday in Perth District Court after a major police investigation uncovered thousands of intimate images and videos of women  one of whom was just 17  on his devices last year. Michael Clapsis admitted creating a fake Wi-Fi. The IT professional, who grew up in Mosman Park and went to Christian Brothers College in Fremantle, was arrested at Perth Airport after an airline employee reported concerns about a suspicious WiFi network during a domestic flight in April 2024. Australian Federal Police searched Clapsis luggage and seized a portable wireless access device, a laptop and a mobile phone from his hand luggage. They also searched his Palmyra home.

Advertisement

A month later he was arrested, with the AFP alleged Clapsis used the portable wireless access device to create evil twin free WiFi networks which lured unsuspecting users into believing they were legitimate services. When police asked for the pin code to access Clapsis data, he gave them the wrong one, before deleting nearly 2000 images and videos of a total of 17 women in various stages of undress and partaking in sexual activity. No one should ever have to go through this, one his victims said in a letter tendered to the court. How could someone do this? I feel like I have eyes on me 24/7. Thoughts of hatred, disgust and shame have impacted me severely. Even though they were only pictures, they were mine not yours.

Advertisement

Another of his victims who used to work with Clapsis went on to become a police officer, and he downloaded pictures she had of herself in uniform. Michael Clapsis admitted making a fake WIFI account to steal personal information. The realisation that this information was taken from me has left me exposed and vulnerable, she wrote. Another woman spoke of feeling unsafe after the violation. I felt like someone was always watching me, she said.

Advertisement

Between April 22 and 23, 2024, Clapsis also used a computer software tool to unlawfully access his employers laptop to access confidential online meetings between his employer and the AFP regarding the investigation. Related Article Updated

Courts Perth dad who created evil twin Wi-Fi did so to access pictures of women Police found Clapsis had curated the images and videos of the women into folders under their names, which he had been collecting for nearly 10 years. It was done, not as part of a joint effort or collaboration, but by Mr Clapsis alone without the knowledge or assistance of anyone else, his lawyer Anthony Ayres told the court. It was done for sexual voyeurism. It was not done to the financial detriment of his victims or for his financial benefit.

Advertisement

Throughout his offending, Clapsis was living a double life, Ayres told the court. He had a successful career in a $160,000-a-year IT job, a wife and three children in an idyllic Palmyra property, all the while quietly spying on the lives of vulnerable young women. He has brought shame to himself and his family, Ayres told the court. Hes sought to seek help, to seek insight, to seek understanding and address his way of thinking. Clapsis was diagnosed with level one autism spectrum disorder, but it was not linked to his offending, the court was told. He did, however, show signs of suffering from voyeurism disorder.

Advertisement

Judge Darren Renton sentenced Clapsis for a combined total of seven years and four months in jail, with eligibility for parole after three years and eight months. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.
Advertisement

PoliticsFederalEnvironmental protection Labor to fast-track nature law enforcement due to fears of land-clearing rush Mike Foley November 28, 2025  4:01pm 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

Environment Minister Murray Watt is so worried that farmers will rush to rev up the bulldozers and fell swaths of trees on their land before the Albanese governments landmark nature reforms that he is ordering laws into effect within days, demanding his department crack down on illegal activity. We dont want to see a rush to destroying the kind of vegetation that will now be protected under the law, and people need to know that if they break the law, we will be cracking down on that, Watt said on Friday. Environment Minister Murray Watt, announcing his reforms had been enacted, said he had ordered a crackdown on illegal land clearing. Dominic Lorrimer The Albanese government cut a deal with the Greens and passed the ambitious bill through parliament on the last sitting day of the year. One of the most controversial changes, described by the National Farmers Federation as bitterly disappointing, is the removal of the continued use provision from the act, meaning that the clearing of native vegetation regrowth, including trees, that is more than 15 years old will no longer be exempt from scrutiny under law.

Advertisement

Related Article Updated

Environmental protection Albanese strikes deal with the Greens to pass environment protection bill Watt said he would not risk a transition period for farmers before the new protection is enforced, in case farmers rushed to knock down trees before the Governor General gives royal assent and signs the legislation into law. Ive spoken this morning with the secretary of my department about the need to make sure that our compliance and enforcement teams are ready to enforce these new laws, Watt said. We cant allow too much of a gap between us having announced that there will be these changes to land clearing and implementing them, and thats why we are commencing those provisions about land clearing on the date of royal assent to this bill in the next few days. Land clearing is listed as a top cause of species extinction in the federal governments nature report card, the State of the Environment Report.

Advertisement

National environment laws operate alongside state regulations and are focused on so-called matters of national environmental significance, such as endangered animals. The most widespread clearing of native vegetation under the continued use exemption has occurred in Queensland. According to the state governments Statewide Landcover and Trees Study, more than 320,000 hectares of land were cleared in the 2022-23 financial year. Ecologists list land clearing as a top cause of wildlife loss. Wolter Peeters As much as 85 per cent of the cleared land had vegetation on it that was more than 15 years old and, according to studies by the Australian Conservation Foundation, more than 80 per cent of the land was likely to involve matters of national environmental significance, which includes endangered species like greater gliders, northern quolls, and many birds such as the painted snipe. Biodiversity councillor and conservation ecology professor Brendan Wintle said the reforms could deliver a significant boost for endangered animals if they are enforced, a major change from the status quo.

Advertisement

Until now, the department has typically assumed that land clearing would fall under the continued use exemption, Wintle said. If the laws are properly enforced ... it could be a really important improvement for threatened species in this country. General president of Queensland farmer lobby AgForce, Shane McCarthy, said the reforms imposed unnecessary green tape for farmers and would prevent them from actively managing their grazing land and reduce productivity. For somebody living down in inner-city Hobart or inner-city Melbourne, or in the bubble of Canberra, to tell a producer that has lived on that piece of land for five generations how best to manage it is borderline ridiculous, McCarthy said. Its unproductive, its unnecessary and these guys know their land intimately, they know every creature, every plant that is on that property  they know where the endangered animals and plants are.

Advertisement

There is always a bad egg, but 99.9 per cent of producers look after those areas. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter.
Hefei in China's Anhui promotes development of intelligent robot industry

Xinhua) 09:10, November 28, 2025

An engineer observes a humanoid robot grabbing a component at a laboratory of Leju Robotics in Hefei, east China's Anhui Province, Oct. 24, 2025. In recent years, Hefei has been actively promoting the development of its intelligent robot industry. The city is now home to a full-chain industrial system for research, development and manufacturing of robotics that comprises 190 related enterprises. (Xinhua/Zhou Mu)

A staff member trains a humanoid robot to fetch objects for data collection purpose at Zerith, a robotics company, in Hefei, east China's Anhui Province, Nov. 25, 2025. In recent years, Hefei has been actively promoting the development of its intelligent robot industry. The city is now home to a full-chain industrial system for research, development and manufacturing of robotics that comprises 190 related enterprises. (Xinhua/Zhou Mu)

An engineer runs a simulation program at Leju Robotics in Hefei, east China's Anhui Province, Oct. 24, 2025. In recent years, Hefei has been actively promoting the development of its intelligent robot industry. The city is now home to a full-chain industrial system for research, development and manufacturing of robotics that comprises 190 related enterprises. (Xinhua/Zhou Mu)

A humanoid robot, operated by a staff member for data collection purpose, fetches objects at Zerith, a robotics company, in Hefei, east China's Anhui Province, Nov. 25, 2025. In recent years, Hefei has been actively promoting the development of its intelligent robot industry. The city is now home to a full-chain industrial system for research, development and manufacturing of robotics that comprises 190 related enterprises. (Xinhua/Zhou Mu)

A staff member trains a humanoid robot to play Chinese diabolo (kongzhu) for data collection purpose at Zerith, a robotics company, in Hefei, east China's Anhui Province, Nov. 25, 2025. In recent years, Hefei has been actively promoting the development of its intelligent robot industry. The city is now home to a full-chain industrial system for research, development and manufacturing of robotics that comprises 190 related enterprises. (Xinhua/Zhou Mu)

A staff member trains a humanoid robot to fetch objects for data collection purpose at Zerith, a robotics company, in Hefei, east China's Anhui Province, Nov. 25, 2025. In recent years, Hefei has been actively promoting the development of its intelligent robot industry. The city is now home to a full-chain industrial system for research, development and manufacturing of robotics that comprises 190 related enterprises. (Xinhua/Zhou Mu)

An engineer operates a humanoid robot via VR equipment for data collection purpose at a laboratory of Leju Robotics in Hefei, east China's Anhui Province, Oct. 24, 2025. In recent years, Hefei has been actively promoting the development of its intelligent robot industry. The city is now home to a full-chain industrial system for research, development and manufacturing of robotics that comprises 190 related enterprises. (Xinhua/Zhou Mu)

An engineer adjusts a humanoid robot at a laboratory of Leju Robotics in Hefei, east China's Anhui Province, Oct. 24, 2025. In recent years, Hefei has been actively promoting the development of its intelligent robot industry. The city is now home to a full-chain industrial system for research, development and manufacturing of robotics that comprises 190 related enterprises. (Xinhua/Zhou Mu)

A staff member trains a humanoid robot to fetch objects for data collection purpose at Zerith, a robotics company, in Hefei, east China's Anhui Province, Nov. 25, 2025. In recent years, Hefei has been actively promoting the development of its intelligent robot industry. The city is now home to a full-chain industrial system for research, development and manufacturing of robotics that comprises 190 related enterprises. (Xinhua/Zhou Mu)

An engineer installs battery for a humanoid robot at Leju Robotics in Hefei, east China's Anhui Province, Oct. 24, 2025. In recent years, Hefei has been actively promoting the development of its intelligent robot industry. The city is now home to a full-chain industrial system for research, development and manufacturing of robotics that comprises 190 related enterprises. (Xinhua/Zhou Mu)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
State Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington Washington D.C. West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Puerto Rico US Virgin Islands Armed Forces Americas Armed Forces Pacific Armed Forces Europe Northern Mariana Islands Marshall Islands American Samoa Federated States of Micronesia Guam Palau Alberta, Canada British Columbia, Canada Manitoba, Canada New Brunswick, Canada Newfoundland, Canada Nova Scotia, Canada Northwest Territories, Canada Nunavut, Canada Ontario, Canada Prince Edward Island, Canada Quebec, Canada Saskatchewan, Canada Yukon Territory, Canada

Zip Code
High Court reporters

Denis OBrien is expected to appeal a High Court jurys combined award of 823,500 to two lawyers the businessman defamed in a 2016 press release, the court has heard.

Last week, the jury found that Mr OBrien and his long-time spokesman James Morrissey defamed Darragh Mackin and Gavin Booth in the statement that implied the solicitors acted for the IRA.

Mr OBrien and Mr Morrissey were ordered to pay the lawyers 411,750 each to compensate for the damage done to the solicitors reputations arising from the defamation. The jurys award of damages fell within the category for very serious instances of defamation.

The solicitors, partners at Belfast firm Phoenix Law, brought the proceedings against Mr OBrien and Mr Morrissey, complaining of a sentence in the statement that read: Sinn Fein/IRA certainly got the report they paid for.

Mr OBrien made the statement in response to a report on media ownership in Ireland. Mr Mackin and Mr Booth were credited as co-authors of the report, which was commissioned by then Sinn Fein MEP Lynn Boylan.

At the time of the report, Mr OBrien owned substantial stakes in Irish media companies.

On Friday, Darren Lehane SC, appearing for the defendants with barrister Joe Holt, and instructed by Meagher Solicitors, told Mr Justice Tony OConnor that his clients intend to appeal the jurys award of damages to the Court of Appeal.

Mr Lehane said he was applying for a stay in respect of the jurys award of damages.

Setting out the appeal in general terms, Mr Lehane said the jurys award of general damages  270,000 to each solicitor  was at the very top of the scale.

According to Supreme Court guidelines, awards of between 200,000 to 300,000 are reserved for very serious instances of defamation. A jury should only award more than 300,000 in exceptional cases.

Mr Lehane said their appeal would contend that, having regard to the evidence before the jury, the award shouldnt have been at the range it was at.

Mr Lehane said the jurys award of aggravated damages  141,750 to each solicitor  was objectively disproportionate because it represented a 52 per cent increase in the total award.

Mr Lehane noted that the jurys award was one of the largest payouts in a defamation case in recent years.

Counsel said they had a bona fide appeal and were entitled to ask for a stay.

Tom Hogan SC, appearing for the solicitors with barrister Conan Fegan, and instructed by Johnsons Solicitors, noted that the focus of the appeal will be on the jurys award. He said he welcomed the defendants acceptance of the defamation.

Mr Hogan opposed the application for a stay and said the test for setting aside a jurys award was a very high bar. Counsel said Mr OBriens side must convince the Court of Appeal that no reasonable jury should have made such an award.

Mr Hogan submitted that the chances of the appeal against the general damages award succeeding were slim. The appeal would suggest that saying someone worked on behalf of the IRA was not a serious defamation, he submitted.

He also opposed the contention that there were grounds to appeal the award of aggravated damages, pointing to the manner in which the defence was run.

Mr Hogan submitted that prior to the appeal, his clients should each be paid 300,000 arising from the award of damages, and a similar amount in legal costs. He said the legal costs in the case were obviously very significant.

Responding, Mr Holt said a payment of 300,000 would represent about 72 per cent of the overall award  a figure way out of line when compared with other cases.

Mr Holt submitted that if his clients are successful, the costs of the appeal would offset the costs of the High Court action.

Mr Justice OConnor granted a stay on the execution of judgment against the defendants, but directed that they pay the solicitors 211,750 each within 28 days. The judge refused a stay on legal costs.

The judge said the defendants accept that they defamed the solicitors, and the jurys verdict should not be diminished in any way. He said the best way forward was to grant the stay sought with the condition of a payout.
By Rebecca Black, PA

The number of race hate incidents recorded in Northern Ireland over the last year is the third highest on record, according to police figures.

Across the board, the number of race, sexual orientation and transgender identity incidents were up from October 1st, 2024 to September 30th, 2025 compared to the previous 12 months.

However crimes with race-hate motivation saw the biggest increase, according to the figures published on Thursday.

Police respond to violence in Ballymena in June 2025. (Niall Carson/PA)

The 12-month period included a period of rioting across Northern Ireland in June, which came after two Romanian-speaking teenagers were charged with attempted rape after allegedly sexually assaulting a teenage girl in Ballymena.

Across the 12 months, the Police Service of Northern Ireland recorded 270 more race incidents and 112 more race crimes.

They found the number of both race incidents (2,048) and race crimes (1,280) are the third highest 12-month levels recorded since the data series began in 2004/05.

Four of the five highest monthly levels of race incidents were recorded between June and September 2025 which coincides with disorder spreading from Ballymena, to Larne, Belfast and Portadown.

According to the statistics, the 347 race incidents recorded in June 2025 were the second highest monthly level in the data series, two lower than the 349 race incidents recorded in August 2024.

The number of sexual orientation incidents rose from 359 to 363 and crimes fell from 221 to 215, and transgender identity incidents and crimes rose from 61 to 68 and from 31 to 39 respectively.

Elsewhere, there was a decrease of five sectarian incidents, while the number of crimes rose by 22, disability incidents decreased by one from 78 to 77 and crimes increased from 42 to 45.

Faith/religion incidents and crimes fell from 109 to 76 and from 74 to 54 respectively.

Patrick Corrigan, Amnesty Internationals Northern Ireland director (PA)

Amnesty International slammed a shameful year and urged Stormont to author a new anti-racism strategy.

Patrick Corrigan, Amnesty Internationals Northern Ireland director, called for action.

This has been a shameful year of racist violence  from the targeting of families in Ballymena and other towns this summer to daily attacks on homes right across Northern Ireland, he said.

Behind every shocking statistic, there is a real person or family left living in fear.

Yet too many politicians have echoed anti-migrant misinformation that provides the backdrop to these attacks, rather than stand with the victims of hate crimes.

Meanwhile, the Executives under-powered 2015-25 Race Equality Strategy has been a dismal failure. It expires in a month, with no agreed plan in place to follow.

We urgently need a bold action plan to confront and dismantle the toxic prejudice that has been allowed to take root across Northern Ireland.
High Court reporters

A Tibetan Buddhist monk seeking asylum here has been left "in limbo" by the Irish State, which is refusing to give him an extension of time to lodge an appeal against their rejection of his claim for asylum, the High Court has been told.

The man, who cannot be named, claims, through legal papers, that he left China for "political reasons".

He claims he will be "persecuted and tortured" should he be sent to China, as he is a symbol of Tibetan culture.

The monk, who attends the Four Courts in full religious robes, has said he is a symbol of "the Tibetan root of religion and culture".

He claims that he was delayed in filing an appeal against the State's refusal to grant asylum due to extraordinary circumstances when the home of one of his legal team in Sudan was bombed.

At the High Court on Friday, Anthony Hanrahan SC, for the man, told the court that the monk was "in limbo" due to the lack of progress in the case. Mr Hanrahan said there was no deportation order in place and that his client was surviving on 100 a week.

Counsel said the case should not be linked to pending judgments in other similar test cases and that progress should be made due to the "unusual and precarious" situation the monk found himself in.

Mr Justice Anthony Barr adjourned the matter to next week for it to come before Ms Justice Sara Phelan, who had previously dealt with the case.

In papers submitted by his legal team - Mr Hanrahan with Eoin Heffernan BL - the monk claims he left Tibet in April 2016 and went to Nepal until September 2024 before arriving in Ireland in October 2024, when he applied for international protection.

In January of this year, his application for asylum was rejected and his intent was to appeal that decision to an appeals tribunal, he claims.

The man is taking the action against the International Protection Appeals Tribunal (IPAT) and the Minister for Justice.

In April, he was granted leave by the High Court to challenge IPAT's rejection of his application, which was refused under time limit constraints.

The man submits that a Sudanese legal secretary of his legal team was preparing a notice of appeal, but received notification that her family home in Sudan had been destroyed by an airstrike and that a close family friend had been killed in the attack.

He submits that the woman was left in a state of shock and distress by the news and mistakenly believed she had submitted the notice of appeal in time.

This, he submits, amounts to extraordinary circumstances over which IPAT could use its power of discretion.

In March, IPAT refused an extension of time to file a challenge to deny him asylum.

IPAT was asked to reconsider the application for the extension of time, but told the monks solicitors that the application could not be reconsidered and that "the Tribunal does not have the jurisdiction to accept an appeal which it has already rejected.
Advertisement

Pakistan's land route exports of cement to Afghanistan have been halted since mid-October due to escalating tensions between the two governments. No import or export has occurred since then. The All Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association (APCMA) and cement exporters based in the northern regions have not yet commented on the situation. However, a southern-based exporter indicated that this issue is likely to affect other market participants.

Currently, export data to Afghanistan is not available on the APCMA website. Still, previous figures show that Pakistan's cement exports have ranged between 1.5-2.5Mt in recent years.

In a related matter, DG Khan Cement Co Ltd (DGKC) highlighted that border closures with Afghanistan have disrupted coal supplies, prompting it to shift to imported coal.

Additionally, Pakistan has reiterated that trade with Afghanistan will not resume until Kabul takes significant measures to prevent cross-border terrorist infiltration and dismantle terrorist hideouts. The Federal Minister for Commerce emphasised during the inauguration of FoodAg 2025 in Karachi that, while Pakistan will bear trade losses, it will not compromise the safety of its citizens and security forces. He stated that Kabul must halt cross-border terrorist activities and that Pakistan is prepared to reopen trade routes if co-operation is extended in both letter and spirit.

It is important to note that the trade and import halt between Pakistan and Afghanistan is causing significant losses for both countries, exceeding PKR1bn (US$3.54m) per day. The closure of key border crossings, including Torkham and Chaman, has stranded hundreds of containers and disrupted supply chains.

The suspension of cement exports to Afghanistan is impacting its construction industry. Efforts to resolve the situation have included two rounds of talks held in Qatar and Turkiye, but these discussions were unsuccessful. Recently, Russia and Iran have offered to mediate discussions aimed at achieving peace and prosperity in the region. Additionally, the Pakistan-Afghanistan Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry has urged the government to intervene and resolve the trade impasse.

by Abdul Rab Siddiqi, Pakistan
Advertisement

The latest quarterly report on Saudi Arabias cement sector shows that cement sales amounted to 13.8Mt in the third quarter of 2025, up 11.3 per cent YoY from the 12.4Mt recorded in 3Q24.

Cement production was 14.1Mt in 3Q25, up 12.8 per cent YoY from 12.5Mt in the same period of 2024. Cement stocks amounted to roughly 0.5Mt in 3Q25, little changed from 3Q24.

Clinker production was 13.9Mt down 2.8 per cent YoY from 14.3Mt in Q324. Clinker stocks were 44.2Mt in 3Q25, down 2.2 per cent YoY from 45.2Mt in 3Q24.

The average price of a 50kg bag of cement reached SAR15.70 (US$4.19) in 3Q25, up around one per cent YoY from SAR15.55 in 3Q24. Prices hit a record high of SAR15.89 in August 2025.

January-September 2025

Cement sales amounted to 39.5Mt in the first nine months of 2025, up 13.2 per cent YoY from the 34.9Mt recorded in the same period of 2024.

Cement production was 40.7Mt in 9M25, up 12.7 per cent YoY from 36.1Mt in the same period of 2024. Clinker production was 42Mt down 1.2 per cent YoY from 42.5Mt in 9M24.

Saudi Arabia has a designed production capacity of 81Mta, while actual production capacity does not exceed 66Mta.

Cement exports amounted to 1.23Mt in 9M25, down 38.2 per cent YoY from 1.99Mt in the same period of 2024. Clinker exports amounted to 4.85Mt in 9M25, up 8.5 per cent YoY from 4.47Mt in 9M24.

Cement exports are dominated by two companies, Saudi Cement Co and Najran Cement Co, which account for approximately 98 per cent of total cement exports. Clinker exports are dominated by Yanbu Cement, which increased its market share of clinker exports to account for 56 per cent, up from 25 per cent in 2024, and Saudi Cement, whose market share declined to 24 per cent from 51 per cent.
Annes Church of Toronto in Ontario, Canada, which was destroyed in an arson attack on June 9, 2024. | Photo credit: Facebook/ St. Annes Church of Toronto

Authorities in Toronto have opened an arson investigation into the fire that consumed a historic Anglican church last year, destroying the landmark hours before Sunday services were set to begin.

St. Annes Church, a Toronto congregation within the Anglican Church of Canada, was engulfed in flames on June 9, 2024, leaving the structure in ruins after an early-morning blaze swept through the entire building.

On Monday, the Toronto Police Service formally announced that the incident is now investigating the fire as a suspected arson.

In a joint statement responding to the development, the Anglican Diocese of Toronto and the St. Annes community expressed sadness at the update while expressing gratitude to investigators for their ongoing work.

Bishop Kevin Robertson, who serves as a suffragan bishop in the diocese, said he was heartbroken at the possibility the blaze was intentional.

He stated he was devastated to hear that the fire that destroyed the congregation of St. Annes building on Gladstone may have been deliberately set, and encouraged prayers both for the congregation and for anyone responsible. We pray for the person or persons who may have perpetrated this act, that they might seek forgiveness and healing.

The Rev. Hannah Johnston, priest-in-charge of St. Annes, was quoted in the statement as saying that while the loss of the building has been devastating, the community is resilient.

Our faith tells us that there is hope even in the face of suffering and death, and that new life can spring from the ashes, she said. The church is the people who gather in worship and in service of others, and we look forward to worshipping and serving in this neighborhood for many more years to come.

Founded in 1908, St. Annes was an architectural and cultural landmark built in the Byzantine Revival style, adorned with interior murals created by 10 Toronto artists during the 1920s. The Canadian government designated the structure a national historic site in 1997, recognizing its artistic and spiritual significance.

In recent years, churches across CanadaCatholic, Anglican, and Eastern Orthodoxhave faced a surge of vandalism and arson attacks. The escalation began in 2021 after false speculation suggested that mass graves of Indigenous children had been discovered at former Catholic-run residential schools.

Subsequent scholarly reviews challenged the claims, noting that some sites were existing cemeteries that contained adult remains and others yielded no confirmed remains of children. Despite this, dozens of churches were attacked in the aftermath of the accusations.

According to reporting last year by the independent media outlet True North, at least 96 church buildings across Canada have been desecrated, vandalized, or destroyed since the mass grave allegations arose.
Photo credit: Unsplash/ JV

The United States military could soon end its historic partnership with Scouting America, formerly the Boy Scouts of America, according to a draft memo reportedly circulating within the Pentagon.

National Public Radio reported Tuesday that U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth is preparing to cut formal ties with the youth organization, though the memo has not yet been formally issued. The document allegedly argues that Scouting America has shifted away from its traditional mission.

Hegseth, according to the reported memo, criticized the group for becoming "genderless" and accused it of having begun to attack boy-friendly spaces. He asserted that The organization once endorsed by President Theodore Roosevelt no longer supports the future of American boys, claiming the youth organization had strayed from its meritocratic roots.

Should these proposed changes be implemented, the militarys logistical and medical support for the National Jamboreewhich draws as many as 20,000 participantswould be discontinued, and scouting units would be barred from meeting on military bases.

In response, Scouting America released a statement calling the development unexpected and troubling, noting that our nation's military has walked side-by-side with Scouts for generations.

The group further emphasized that many service members come from scouting backgrounds. An enormous percentage of those in our military academies are Scouts and Eagle Scouts. Our Scouts and leaders admire and are inspired by our military heroes. Many of our Scouts trade their Scouting uniforms for the uniforms of our nation's armed forces, the statement read.

Scouting America rejected accusations that it no longer advanced meritocracy among its members, calling the accusation "clearly uninformed."

Badges and ranks are not given, they are earned. Just ask any Eagle Scout. Young men and young women alike thrive in Scouting. Scouts wear an American flag on their sleeves and swear a duty to God and country, the group said.

In May 2024, the Boy Scouts of America announced it would adopt the name Scouting America beginning Feb. 8, 2024, in recognition of the organization's 115th anniversary.

Scouting American President Roger A. Krone said at the time that the change will be a simple but very important evolution as we seek to ensure that everyone feels welcome in scouting.

The identity change followed the organizations 2018 decision to allow girls to join troop unitsan expansion that triggered a trademark dispute with the Girl Scouts of the United States of America.

The Girl Scouts argued in their lawsuit that the coed decision had led to widespread public confusion. Since BSA's announcement that it would admit girls to its core programs, GSUSA's fears about the damage that would be caused to its trademarks and the mission those trademarks symbolize have been realized, the complaint stated.

According to the Girl Scouts, families and schools across the country mistakenly believed the two organizations had merged or that the Girl Scouts had ceased to exist entirely. Parents interested in signing up for Girl Scouts programs have instead mistakenly signed up for the new girls' programs offered by BSA, they alleged.

The legal battle concluded in July 2022 when both organizations agreed to drop their claims.
Photo credit: Unsplash/ Isaac Quesada

The North Dakota Supreme Court has upheld the states near-total abortion ban, reversing a lower court decision.

In a ruling released last Friday in Access Independent Health Services, Inc., et al. v. Drew H. Wrigley et al., the high court addressed whether North Dakotas 2023 abortion ban could lawfully remain in effect.

Although three of the five participating justices concluded that the statute was unconstitutional, state law requires a supermajority of the courtnot a simple majorityto strike down an enacted statute on constitutional grounds.

Justices Daniel Crothers and Lisa Fair McEvers, joined by District Judge Daniel Narumwho sat in for recused Justice Douglas Bahrtook the position that the ban violates constitutional protections.

Meanwhile, Chief Justice Jon Jensen and Justice Jerod Tufte ruled that the law was constitutional, with Tufte writing that the argument that the ban was unconstitutionally vague was invalid.

Because the Plaintiffs have presented only hypothetical scenarios and have not demonstrated the statute is vague as applied to any actual conduct, their facial challenge fails to satisfy our established precedent, he wrote.

Tufte further noted that while the laws exception for medical emergencies is not exhaustive, it still provides sufficient clarity.

The serious health risk exception does not present a clear answer to every imaginable situation. No statute can. This statute provides minimum guidelines to avoid arbitrary and discriminatory enforcement, and also provides fair warning to a reasonable person about what conduct is prohibited, he stated.

The contested statute was enacted in April 2023, when then-Gov. Doug Burgum signed a bill outlawing abortion in all circumstances except cases involving a serious medical emergency for the mother, or when rape or incest is reported and the unborn child is six weeks gestation or younger.

The Red River Womens Clinic in Fargo challenged the ban later that year, filing suit in July 2023. In September 2024, Burleigh County District Judge Bruce Romanick ruled in favor of the clinic, finding the law unconstitutionalan outcome the Supreme Court has now reversed.
Home News 13 Israelis arrested after breaching border, crossing into Syria, calling for settlements in Syrian Golan

Thirteen Israeli citizens were arrested after breaching the border and crossing into Syrian territory at two separate locations in the Golan Heights and Mount Hermon on Thursday, the Israel Defense Forces said.

The move was coordinated and planned by a group calling itself the Bashan Pioneers, using the biblical name for the Golan Heights. It advocates for setting up Israeli settlements in the Israeli-held buffer zone inside Syrian territory and carried out a similar operation last August.

The IDF stated, Troops were dispatched to the two locations and shortly afterward, the civilians were located. After some of them confronted the forces, they were safely returned to Israeli territory under IDF escort. The suspects were transferred for further processing to the Israel Police.

The IDF strongly condemns this incident and emphasizes its severity, which constitutes a criminal offense that endangers civilians and IDF troops.

According to Army Radio, one group crossed the border after opening a military gate in the border fence, and driving a vehicle decorated with Israeli flags while shouting, May we get to settle [here]!

Five people reportedly crossed the border in the area of Mount Hermon, and eight others near the Syrian village Bir al-Ajam, across the border from the Israeli town Alonei Habashan in the central Golan Heights.

One group was seen driving around inside Bir al-Ajam before being caught and returned to Israel.

The incident raises concerns over border security along the sensitive buffer zone, following Augusts incident, as well as the mass breach of the border by hundreds of Israeli Druze in an effort to protect their brethren in Syria last July.

Doron Kadosh, Army Radios military correspondent, commented, It is unclear how the IDF failed to prevent the cutting of the border fence with a power saw, and even more unclear how this happened only four months after a similar incident, when the IDF promised to investigate and draw conclusions.

The IDF should not be condemning such events. The IDF should be preventing and stopping them before they happen. A situation in which a border is cut with a power saw and people drive a car into Syrian territory to wander around should never have been possible in the first place.

Today it is Israeli civilians who want to settle in Syria  tomorrow it could be others on the opposite side of the border, Kadosh warned.

The incident took place just hours before six Israeli troops were wounded in a firefight during a cross-border raid in the village of Beit Jinn in southern Syria, highlighting the tense situation on Israels northern border.

This article was originally published by All Israel News.
Home News Afghan national charged with first-degree murder for National Guard attack

The 29-year-old Afghan national arrested in connection with Wednesday's shooting of two National Guard members in Washington, D.C., was charged with first-degree murder on Friday, following the death of 20-year-old National Guard Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom.

Rahmanullah Lakanwal, who immigrated to the U.S. in 2021 and recently settled in Bellingham, Washington, with his wife and five children, was upgraded from initial assault charges following Beckstrom's death, authorities said.

Beckstrom, a West Virginia National Guard member deployed to the capital for security operations, succumbed to her injuries late Thursday at a local hospital, President Donald Trump confirmed in a statement.

The second victim, U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, remains in critical but stable condition at George Washington University Hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery.

"We are hoping the more information we can get ... the more we will find out about what actually happened in terms of this individual even being in this country to ambush and shoot down an innocent young woman," Pirro said during an appearance on "Fox & Friends," adding that there may be more charges to come.

Pirro, flanked by FBI Director Kash Patel during a Thursday press conference, detailed how Lakanwal faced three counts of assault with intent to kill while armed, plus firearm possession during a crime of violence.

The shooting unfolded Wednesday afternoon near the Farragut West Metro station amid a heightened National Guard presence in D.C.

Once a trusted ally in America's longest war, Lakanwal was part of a CIA-backed paramilitary organization responsible for securing U.S. and NATO bases in Kabul, Afghan and U.S. officials told The New York Times.

Fleeing Taliban threats, Lakanwal was granted asylum under the Trump administration in April 2025.

Trump vowed swift justice.

"We are filled with righteous anger and ferocious resolve," Trump said in a public address. "I am determined to ensure that the animal who perpetrated this atrocity pays the steepest possible price."

Attorney General Pam Bondi echoed the sentiment, signaling the pursuit of the federal death penalty if convicted.

The attack has reignited debates over vetting Afghan evacuees, as Republicans were critical of the Biden administration's handling of the humanitarian parole program after the U.S. military's withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021.
Home News Anglican priest dies in captivity after being kidnapped in Nigeria amid wave of abductions

Amid a rash of mass kidnappings in Nigeria, an Anglican priest in Nigeria abducted along with his wife and daughter has died in captivity, leaders of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion announced on Wednesday.

The Rev. Edwin Achi was kidnapped on Oct. 28 along with his wife, Sarah Achi, and daughter from Nissi village, Chikun County, in Kaduna state. Church leaders did not say how he died, but the assailants had demanded a ransom of 600 million naira ($415,216).

The Venerable Edwin, who was kidnapped alongside his wife on 28 October, has been confirmed dead, the Anglican leaders said in a press statement. His transition is a painful loss to the entire Diocese, the clergy, the church family and all who were blessed by his faithful ministry, humble spirit and unwavering devotion to the service of God. We continue to pray for the release of his wife and daughter still in the hands of kidnappers.

Days before his death, his captors released a photo of him and his wife along with other captive Christians.

Harrison Gwamnishu of Safe City Foundation had said in a prior press statement that the ransom sum was outrageous.

In the photo released by the kidnappers, other innocent victims are also seen, showing this is not an isolated attack but part of a growing wave of insecurity, Gwamnishu said. I am calling on the federal government, the Kaduna state government and all relevant security agencies to act swiftly and decisively. This situation is unacceptable. Every day these victims remain in captivity is another day of trauma and uncertainty for their families and communities. The government must intervene immediately to secure their safe release.

Nelly Achi, a relative of the Anglican priest, had said in a public statement, We are crying and pleading for mercy, Jehovah; 600 million [naira] is the demand for their ransom. This is quite huge for the family to handle. We are soliciting and begging for your acts of kindness.

Wave of Kidnappings

The announcement came as Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, under pressure from the U.S. administration, on Wednesday ordered the recruitment of 20,000 security personnel to be added to the existing force of 30,000 following a wave of mass kidnappings.

The police will recruit an additional 20,000 officers, bringing the total to 50,000, Tinubu said in a press statement. My fellow Nigerians, this is a national emergency, and we are responding by deploying more boots on the ground, especially in security-challenged areas.

Among recent mass kidnappings, gunmen abducted 303 students from a Catholic boarding school in Papiri village, Niger state, on Nov. 21, according to the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). About 50 of them escaped shortly after, according to the local chapter of CAN.

Niger Gov. Umar Bago reportedly said the number of abducted students was far, far below 303 and that area schools had been closed four years ago due to threats. He faulted St. Marys Catholic School officials for re-opening the institution as gunmen issued threats two month prior and also four years ago, resulting in the school closures, according to the BBC.

In Eruku village, Kwara state, assailants killed two Christians at the worship service of Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) and abducted 38 others on Nov. 21. Tinubu and state officials announced on Sunday that the 38 worshippers abducted in Kwara state had been released without giving terms of their freedom.

In Kebbi states Maga town, 25 girls were kidnapped from the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School on Nov. 17, with one reportedly escaping the same day. Again, without providing details, Tinubu announced on Tuesday that the 24 remaining schoolgirls had been released.

Suspected culprits in the kidnappings are Islamic extremist groups, predominantly Muslim Fulani militias and criminal gangs.

In the countrys North-Central zone, where Christians are more common than they are in the North-East and North-West, Islamic extremist Fulani militia attack farming communities, killing many hundreds, Christians above all, according to a report by the United Kingdoms All-Party Parliamentary Group for International Freedom or Belief (APPG).

Jihadist groups such as Boko Haram and the splinter group Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP), among others, are also active in the countrys northern states, where federal government control is scant and Christians and their communities continue to be the targets of raids, sexual violence and roadblock killings, according to the report. Abductions for ransom have increased considerably in recent years.

The violence has spread to southern states, and a new jihadist terror group, Lakurawa, has emerged in the northwest, armed with advanced weaponry and a radical Islamist agenda, according to Open Doors 2025 World Watch List report. Lakurawa is affiliated with the expansionist Al-Qaeda insurgency Jamaa Nusrat ul-Islam wa al-Muslimin, or JNIM, originating in Mali.

Numbering in the millions across Nigeria and the Sahel, predominantly Muslim Fulani comprise hundreds of clans of many different lineages who do not hold extremist views, but some Fulani do adhere to radical Islamist ideology, according to the APPG report.

They adopt a comparable strategy to Boko Haram and ISWAP and demonstrate a clear intent to target Christians and potent symbols of Christian identity, the APPG report states.

Christian leaders in Nigeria have said they believe herdsmen attacks on Christian communities in Nigerias Middle Belt are inspired by their desire to forcefully take over Christians lands and impose Islam as desertification has made it difficult for them to sustain their herds.

Nigeria remained among the most dangerous places on earth for Christians, according to the WWL. Of the 4,476 Christians killed for their faith worldwide during the reporting period, 3,100 (69%) were in Nigeria, according to the WWL.

The measure of anti-Christian violence in the country is already at the maximum possible under World Watch List methodology, the report stated.

Nigeria ranked seventh on the 2025 WWL list of the 50 worst countries for Christians.

This article was published by Christian Daily International-Morning Star News.
Home News California drops $67K in fines against Bay Area church, Christian school over COVID-era guidelines

In what attorneys say is a landmark vindication, California regulators have dismissed all citations against a Bay Area church and Christian school issued at the height of the states stringent COVID-19 restrictions.

In December 2020, inspectors with the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) inspected Calvary Chapel San Jose (CCSJ) and its affiliated Calvary Christian Academy (CCA) over complaints about children not wearing masks.

After inspection, the agency filed a petition with the Santa Clara County Superior Court for a warrant to inspect the Academy for Cal/OSHA violations, according to attorneys with Advocates for Faith & Freedom, a religious liberty advocacy group.

While attorneys argued that inspectors relied on a faulty affidavit when applying for a warrant for additional inspections, a judge granted the request, leading to 15 citations totaling $67,330.

Advocates for Faith & Freedom, representing the church and school, successfully moved to suppress all evidence obtained under the warrant, arguing it lacked the particularized facts required by the Fourth Amendment. The Superior Court agreed and granted the motion to suppress.

After the core evidence was excluded, Cal/OSHA ultimately withdrew all remaining citations.

The agency also determined there was no finding of wrongdoing, while the church and school admitted no fault. The resolution cannot be used against them in any future proceedings, attorneys announced this week.

This is a complete victory, not only for Calvary Christian Academy, but for every church and Christian school in California, said Joel Oster, Vice President and Chief of Trial Litigation for Advocates for Faith & Freedom. The State tried to use OSHA as a weapon to intimidate a religious institution. They failed. And they were forced to walk away from their own claims.

Attorney Nicolai Cocis, who also represented the ministry, said the court upheld the constitutional rights of Calvary Chapel San Jose and Calvary Christian Academy. This ruling underscores the importance of due process and the protection of religious freedoms against unwarranted governmental overreach.

Earlier this month, Advocates for Faith & Freedom announced its intention to join the American Center for Law & Justice (ACLJ) in defending Calvary Chapel San Jose Pastor Mike McClure before the U.S. Supreme Court, seeking to have more than $1.2 million in fines levied under Gov. Gavin Newsom thrown out.

Attorneys say the Supreme Court has upheld in Tandon v. Newsom and other cases that religious gatherings cannot be treated worse than comparable secular activities.

Churches were punished while secular entities operated freely, said Joel Oster, vice president and chief of trial litigation for Advocates for Faith & Freedom. If government can impose crushing penalties until churches surrender constitutional freedoms, then those freedoms are meaningless.

Advocates for Faith & Freedom and ACLJ are expected to file their petition with the court in the coming weeks.
Home News GOP lawmaker faces backlash after linking Orthodox churches to Russian 'intelligence operation'

A Republican congressman from South Carolina is facing backlash from his colleagues and some Orthodox Christian leaders after he accused Russia-aligned Orthodox churches of functioning as "intelligence operations" for Russia.

The controversy began after U.S. Rep. Joe Wilson, R-S.C., reacted to an invitation for a "Legislative Day of Action" organized by the Russian Orthodox Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in a Nov. 18 post on X.

Characterizing the event as a ploy by the Russian Orthodox Church (ROC), which he called "not a separate religious organization but an extension of the Russian state," Wilson urged lawmakers not to "entertain this intelligence operation," citing Russia's suppression of evangelism and attacks on Christians in Ukraine.

The post, which highlighted an email promoting the Nov. 18 gathering to advocate for the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC)  a body historically tied to Moscow but now asserting independence  drew backlash from Wilson's own party.

Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, R-Fla., who hosted Orthodox leaders during the visit, called Wilson's response "alarming and disappointing," arguing it ignored pleas for aid to imprisoned UOC members.

"It is both alarming and disappointing that @RepJoeWilson, instead of responding to a request for help on behalf of imprisoned Ukranian Orthodox members currently being held in Ukraine, chose to turn this into a press campaign against them," Luna wrote on X.

"[H]is first priority is to his own country ... ensuring that American taxpayer dollars are not used to imprison Orthodox Christians simply because the word 'Russia' appears in their church name."

Former Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., labeled the remarks a "rather bigoted smear," while South Carolina State Rep. Thomas Beach, responding from Wilson's home state, decried them as "actual Soviet stuff" that smeared local American converts.

"One of the largest OCA [Orthodox Church in America] parishes in America is in Greenville, SC. These are Americans. ... Calling for the investigation of these good Christians? That's actual Soviet stuff," Beach posted.

In a follow-up X post, Wilson clarified that his "comments pertain ONLY to the leadership of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia (ROCOR) operating under the umbrella of the Moscow Patriarchate." He accused Patriarch Kirill, a Putin ally and alleged former KGB officer, of advocating "mass murder and persecution of Christians."

Father John Whiteford, a Texas-based ROCOR priest and organizer, framed the episode as part of a U.S.-fueled "persecution" predating the 2022 invasion. In a Nov. 19 blog post, he claimed Wilson's mother was his seventh cousin and lambasted the congressman for targeting "Americans" born in New Jersey, San Francisco and Australia.

"He is not attacking foreigners. He is attacking Americans, and he is attacking them for daring to speak out about the abuse of innocent people," Whiteford wrote, calling the war a "pretext" for escalation.

In response to what he called growing persecution against the UOC, Whiteford announced a Dec. 16 rally in Washington to affirm "religious freedom and the right to petition our government."

Despite pushback from his own party, Wilson received support from the Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate (AEP), a group of influential Greek American lay leaders loyal to Istanbul-based Patriarch Bartholomew, who granted independence to Ukraine's rival Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU) in 2019.

Referring to the Russian clergy as "boosters of Vladimir Putin's unjust, immoral and monstrous war against Ukraine," AEP National Commander Anthony J. Limberakis praised Wilson and condemned the lobbying as a "deceptive attempt to legitimize Russia's use of the Orthodox Church as an arm of its aggressive foreign policy."

"The meeting seeks to solicit an American blessing upon its misleading tactics, which result in the persecution of the Orthodox Christians in Ukraine," wrote Limberakis. "The AEP expresses our heartfelt gratitude to [Wilson] for calling attention to the fact that the canonical Ukrainian Orthodox Church is facing 'increasing pressure and persecution in Ukraine.'"

In 2024, Ukrainian lawmakers passed legislation banning religious groups with ties to the Russian Orthodox Church and the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, which held ties to the Moscow patriarch but ended those ties in May 2022 after Russia's invasion began. The ban doesn't apply to the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, which many global Orthodox leaders have recognized as independent of Russian influence.

Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Ukraine's Security Council has seized the assets of clergy members and banned them from certain economic or legal activities.

Washington-based international religious freedom expert and human rights lawyer Nina Shea of the Hudson Institute contends that Ukraine has a right to restrict what it deems to be "weaponized" religious institutions whose leaders have voiced support for Russian aggression. In an op-ed for the National Review in January 2024, she noted that Moscow Patriarch Kirill is an active participant in Russia's war efforts.

"Religion was not Putin's primary reason for invading Ukraine, but Kirill has been his stalwart partner in the fight," wrote Shea, who formerly served as a commissioner on the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom.

"In 1927, after Stalin slaughtered or imprisoned over 50,000 Orthodox religious, and even greater numbers of laity, the Russian Orthodox leadership capitulated with a 'Declaration of Loyalty to the Soviets.' Today, the Moscow Patriarchate continues as an active and loyal Putin ally."
Home News India's Supreme Court upholds Christian army officers dismissal for refusing to enter temple

The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday dismissed the appeal of a Christian Army officer who was terminated for refusing to enter the inner sanctum of his regiments temple, describing his conduct as the grossest kind of indiscipline.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi refused to interfere with the Delhi High Courts decision upholding the dismissal of Lieutenant Samuel Kamalesan, saying his actions were incompatible with military discipline.

What kind of message has he been sending? He should have been thrown out for this only. This is the grossest kind of indiscipline by an Army official, Chief Justice Kant said.

The bench told the officers counsel that leaders must lead by example and that Kamalesan had insulted his troops.

When a pastor counselled you, you leave it at that. You cannot have your private understanding of what your religion permits. That too in uniform, the Chief Justice added.

Senior Advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan, appearing for Kamalesan, argued that his client was dismissed for a single act of refusal. He said the officer declined to enter the innermost sanctum of a temple at his posting as it violated his Christian faith, but had otherwise participated respectfully in all multi-faith spaces and regimental events.

The Chief Justice questioned whether such conduct was permissible in a disciplined force. He asked how a troop leader could refuse to accompany his soldiers into a place they considered sacred.

The court noted that the regiment also maintained a gurdwara for its Sikh soldiers. A gurdwara is one of the most secular places. The manner in which he is behaving, is he not insulting other religions? the Chief Justice asked.

Sankaranarayanan invoked Article 25 of the Constitution, which guarantees the fundamental right to practise religion. He argued that this right cannot be taken away just because someone has donned a uniform.

Justice Bagchi responded: Article 25 protects essential religious features, not every sentiment. Where in the Christian faith is entering a temple barred?

The bench pointed out that the officer had ignored advice from a local pastor, who reportedly said entering a sarva dharma sthal would not violate the Christian faith.

You may be outstanding in 100 things, but the Indian Army is known for its secular approach. You have failed to respect the sentiments of your own soldiers, the Chief Justice said when counsel suggested the dismissal penalty could be reconsidered.

When the appellants counsel said not issuing a notice would send the wrong message to society, the bench replied: This will send a strong message.

Kamalesan was commissioned in 2017 into the 3rd Cavalry Regiment and posted as troop leader of B Squadron, which comprised Sikh personnel. The regiment maintained a temple and a gurdwara, but not a sarva dharma sthal or a church.

The officer claimed he accompanied troops to both places for weekly religious parades but refrained from entering the sanctum during aarti, havan or puja, citing religious conscience.

The Army said Kamalesan repeatedly refused to attend mandatory regimental parades. Senior officers made multiple attempts to counsel him on the importance of regimentation, but he refused. This weakened unit cohesion, a critical requirement for operational effectiveness, the Army argued.

The Army concluded that Kamalesans further retention was undesirable. The Delhi High Court upheld his dismissal, holding that regimental religious spaces, though rooted in history, serve a secular, unifying purpose rather than a denominational one.

The Supreme Court agreed with this assessment and dismissed Kamalesans appeal, affirming that his conduct violated military discipline and undermined the secular ethos that defines the Indian Army.

This article was originally published by Christian Today India.
Home News 'Unconscionable': Jailed pregnant women giving birth in cells, report claims

Advocates are calling for action after dozens of pregnant women or their families alleged in a new report that jails in the United States have subjected them to severe mistreatment or medical neglect, including women who gave birth on dirty cell floors.

Bloomberg Law and NBC News published the findings after a year-long investigation involving interviews with over 60 people, including a dozen previously incarcerated women.

After reviewing federal civil rights lawsuits from 2017 to 2024, the reporters found at least 54 pregnant women or their families alleged to have been subjected to severe mistreatment or medical neglect. Many of the pregnant women who have made allegations about mistreatment had been locked up for "petty crimes," the report states.

"No matter what crime a pregnant woman has been arrested for, there is no justifiable reason to ignore her cries for help, to not attend to her with urgency, to not care about her or the life she is bearing," Amie Ichikawa, a former inmate and the executive director of the nonprofit Woman II Woman, told The Christian Post.

"In order for any progress to be made regarding this issue, we as a nation are going to have to have a change of heart," she continued. "I pray that this report reaches those who are called to remember the prisoners as if they were together with them in prison, and that they start to act like the mistreatment and suffering of our sisters in jail is also happening to them."

Tiana Hill, who has testified about her experience before the U.S. Congress, was held at the Clayton County Jail in December 2019 after being accused of battery and violating probation. For months, she claims to have reportedly asked jail officials for prenatal care, but she was denied, according to the report.

When Hill went into labor, she told the jail staff that she needed to go to the hospital, but the staff allegedly told her that she wasn't pregnant and instructed her to return to her cell. She eventually delivered her son in the cell, and the newborn died four days later.

Hill later settled a lawsuit with CorrectHealth Clayton LLC, which denied the allegations. She is also pursuing a lawsuit against the sheriff and the county, both of which deny the allegations against them.

Ichikawa, who served nearly five years in the Central California Women's Facility, asserted that the country "hates" incarcerated women.

"I don't mean in a modern or emotional way, but as an action," Ichikawa told The Christian Post. "Society, medical professionals, and our government have actively turned their heads to the ongoing female human rights crisis in our nation's carceral system."

Ichikawa said that she knows women who have given birth in shackles and children who were born in custody.

Other pregnant women who experienced pregnancy complications while incarcerated allegedly suffered medical neglect.

Lanekia Brown died at the age of 37 due to an abdominal hemorrhage caused by an ectopic pregnancy, according to a lawsuit. Brown had been accused of trafficking marijuana, and she was jailed at the Madison County Detention Center in Mississippi.

After she was jailed, Brown complained of escalating abdominal pain, but she was reportedly never seen by a doctor. The pregnant woman was allegedly left unattended in a medical holding cell, even as she vomited and bled.

"Every woman, no matter her circumstances, deserves compassionate and professional care throughout her pregnancy," Brandi Swindell, founder and CEO of Stanton Healthcare International and Stanton Public Policy Center, said in a statement provided to CP.

"We cannot look away from their struggle. These mothers carry real children with real futures, and their lives have value and purpose. Supporting them is an expression of who we are as a just and compassionate society," Swindell stated, calling for "immediate reforms" to the care provided to women behind bars.

"When we defend the most vulnerable women among us, we help build a culture of hope that lifts entire communities," she added.

Rev. Patrick Mahoney, the chief strategy officer for Stanton Public Policy Center, also called for "immediate action" following the release of the report on the treatment of incarcerated women and their children.

"Congress and our nation's governors must immediately investigate this horrific violation of women's civil rights and implement policies to ensure incarcerated pregnant women and their children are protected and cared for," Mahoney told CP.

"It is unconscionable for our political officials to remain silent as pregnant women are enduring this kind of mistreatment and abuse while under the care of our government," he continued.
Home News Roblox serves as 'hunting ground' for child predators, lawsuit claims

Roblox failed to implement safety standards that would've protected an Oklahoma teenager who an adult sexually exploited after meeting through the popular gaming platform, a new lawsuit alleges, as the company faces mounting legal pressure.

The teenager's mother is suing the platform, with the Dolman Law Group filing a lawsuit last Thursday in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. The lawsuit is one of several abuse-related lawsuits that have been filed against Roblox in recent years.

The boy, who is one of the plaintiffs, is identified as "John Doe J.H" in the suit, while Roblox is named as the defendant.

The complaint asserts that Roblox has served as a "hunting ground" for child-sex predators for years, claiming it gives them "easy access" to children and fails to screen users properly.

"As a direct result of Defendant's reckless disregard for child safety, Plaintiff has suffered devastating and life-altering psychological trauma," the lawsuit states." His life will never be the same."

"When Plaintiff first started playing on Roblox, Plaintiff's mother believed that Roblox was safe for children because it was designed and marketed for kids," the complaint reads, noting that Roblox fueled this perception by advertising the supposed "safety and security of the app."

"Unbeknownst to Plaintiff's mother at the time, this was nothing more than a false facade of safety," the legal document states.

As the complaint alleges, the teenager was an "avid Roblox user" before a predator targeted him through the application in 2023. The predator lied and said that he was the same age as the plaintiff, and he used "well-documented grooming tactics" to establish a relationship with the teen.

"After cultivating Plaintiff's trust on Defendant's dangerous app, the predators sent Plaintiff graphic messages and sent him sexually explicit images of themselves," the complaint states. "Exploiting the trust he had been allowed to build through Defendant's defective app, the predator coerced Plaintiff to send sexually explicit images of himself  including images of his genitals."

The lawsuit requests that the gaming platform compensate the plaintiff for the physical pain and suffering, mental anguish, medical expenses and other injuries allegedly caused by the teen's use of Roblox's products.

"We are deeply troubled by any incident that endangers our users. While we cannot comment on claims raised in litigation, protecting children is a top priority, which is why our policies are purposely stricter than those found on many other platforms," a Roblox spokesperson told The Christian Post.

In 2025 alone, Roblox launched 145 new safety initiatives, the representative speaking on the company's behalf told CP.

"We encourage anyone to report content or behavior that may violate our Community Standards using our Report Abuse feature," the Roblox spokesperson said. "We also partner with law enforcement and leading child safety and mental health organizations worldwide to combat the sexual exploitation of children, such as the Tech Coalition's Lantern project and Robust Open Online Safety Tools or ROOST."

Earlier this month, Roblox announced that it would require users to complete an age check through Facial Age Estimation or ID verification before they can chat with other users within a similar age group. The gaming platform will roll out the requirement in select markets in December before expanding it globally in early January, according to the announcement.

"This innovation enables age-based chat and limits communication between minors and adults," the Roblox spokesperson told CP. "We also limit chat for younger users, don't allow the sharing of external images, and have filters designed to block the sharing of personal information."

The spokesperson also said that Roblox uses advanced technology and 24/7 human moderation to help detect and prevent inappropriate content and behavior.

"We understand that no system is perfect, which is why we are constantly working to improve our safety tools and platform restrictions," the spokesperson stated.

Tim Nester, vice president of communications at the National Center on Sexual Exploitation, criticized Roblox's "abysmal track record" on children's safety, which he believes led to the current lawsuit and over 30 others against the platform.

"There is no doubt that Roblox's chat feature has enabled predators to groom children for sexual abuse," Nester told CP. "Minors can also access sexually explicit 'experiences,' and there has been minimal moderation and easy workarounds for safety controls. Children can also easily exchange Robux and other in-game currencies, which gives predators another way to persuade and extort minors."

"Children should not be prey on a gaming platform marketed to kids," Nester added. "Congress must pass the Kids Online Safety Act so that gaming and tech platforms design their platforms with safety in mind before harm happens."

The Oklahoma teen is not the first time a predator has used Roblox to target children.

An 11-year-old girl in New Jersey was kidnapped by a man she met through Roblox, WABC reported in 2023. The suspect, 27-year-old Darius Matylewich, met up with the girl and transported her 135 miles to Bear, Delaware, without her parents' knowledge.

In another case, a male predator who used platforms like Roblox sexually groomed a 13-year-old Utah boy, NBC News reported in April 2023. The predator eventually kidnapped and sexually assaulted the child before the authorities intervened and brought the boy home.
Home News Texas Christian University to sunset race, gender studies departments

Texas Christian University (TCU) will shutter two race and gender studies departments at the end of the academic year, after fewer than a dozen undergraduates were enrolled in the programs.

TCU will close its Department of Women & Gender Studies and the Department of Comparative Race and Ethnic Studies in June 2026, according to a TCU statement. A spokesperson for the Fort Worth-based university told TCU 360 the decision was based on low enrollment numbers rather than any political decision.

According to the school, nine undergraduate students were enrolled as majors in Comparative Race and Ethnic Studies, while two undergraduates were Women & Gender Studies majors as of fall 2025.

All faculty, major and minor students, and classes will move to the oversight of the English department once the departments are dissolved next year. Students will still have the option to major or minor in both programs through different departments, according to TCU.

As part of its Women & Gender Studies program, students are taught concepts such as social construction of gender, sex, and sexuality, intersectionality, [and] privilege and oppression along with instruction on how to create and execute activist projects focused on social justice.

According to the Comparative Race and Ethnic Studies department page, it aims to decolonize higher education and educate students for the purpose of ending various systems of oppression in every facet of our shared society.

The Christian Post reached out to TCU for comment on Wednesday ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday.

The decision to dissolve the two liberal arts departments is the latest shakeup to hit diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives at TCU following the departure of the chancellors senior advisor and chief inclusion officer in September.

Dr. Jonathan Benjamin-Alvarado, who was hired in March 2022, is no longer with TCU and two important university functions have been realigned to departments where they have incredible support, a TCU spokesperson said at the time.

In April, TCU eliminated its Office of Diversity and Inclusion and scrubbed any related content from its website. TCUs Burnett School of Medicine and Harris College of Nursing and Health Sciences also removed their own DEI pages.

Shortly after President Donald Trump took office in January, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announced a ban on DEI agencies in all state agencies  a move that mirrored Trumps own executive order on DEI.

Last month, TCU disputed claims it canceled a scheduled Turning Point USA event featuring Chloe Cole, a woman who temporarily identified as a male before de-transitioning back to her biological sex.

High-profile Republicans, including Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, denounced the move, which TCU denied was politically motivated. TCU told Fox News in a statement it was given short notice and that the requested space was already booked.
U.S. Military May Cut Scouting America, Benny Hinn Divorces Again, 38 Nigerian Church Hostages Freed

link to download the audio instead. link to download the audio instead. 06:31 06:31

Top headlines for Friday, November 28, 2025

In this episode, we explore the U.S. militarys potential break with Scouting America amid claims the group has strayed from its mission, the second divorce of televangelist Benny Hinn and his wife Suzanne, and the dramatic rescue of 38 worshipers abducted during a church service in North Central Nigeria.

00:11 U.S. military may cut ties with Scouting America: report

00:57 Parents sue Tennessee over universal school voucher program

01:45 'Little House on the Prairie' is attracting largest audience yet

02:33 Benny Hinny and wife Suzanne finalize divorce for a second time

03:19 Mel Gibson's screenwriter discusses 'Passion' sequel

04:07 Nigeria: 38 Christians freed after abduction from worship service

04:53 Dallas Jenkins encourages childlike faith through new show
Home Opinion This Thanksgiving season makes me think of the American Revolution

Americans have experienced this Thanksgiving season with a disconcerting dissonance concerning who we are as a people. There are many who want to tie being American to ethnicity or the length of time their ancestors have inhabited this continent. Many others, thankfully a majority, identify being American with allegiance and loyalty to a set of beliefs and principles embodied in our founding document, the Declaration of Independence, no matter how long their families have been here.

Those who espouse this credal definition, including the belief that All men are created equal by their Creator, that they have the right to govern themselves, and that government obtains its authority from the consent of the governed, have identified that translucent truth which makes the American Revolution and the American Experiment the wonder and envy of the world these past two centuries.

Ken Burns, the multi-award-winning documentarian, in his latest project, The American Revolution series, identifies the truly revolutionary nature of the American Revolution. Until 1776, all humanity had been subjects under the control of a government. The Founding Fathers were the first human beings to assert that people were citizens, and had the right to elect their government and hold it accountable to the people.

Of course, they had their blind spots as 18th-century men and women, just as we have our blind spots as 21st-century men and women. To their credit, and ours, we have often made heroic efforts, including a bloody and bitter Civil War, in efforts to correct these blind spots.

Ken Burns, being interviewed about his American Revolution documentary, said that the Revolutions credal assertion that All men are created equal was so revolutionary for humanity that it was the greatest event since the birth of Christ. When I first heard the statement by Burns, I was shocked, and as a Christian, I felt it was a bit sacrilegious.

However, when I reflected on it, I felt Burns was almost right in attempting to describe the enormous influence of the American Revolution on human history. Personally, I would rank the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ as the most significant event in history, human or otherwise. However, excepting the life, death and resurrection of Jesus, the only events I would say outrank the American Revolution in human history are the coming of the Holy Spirit in a new and mighty way at Pentecost (Acts 2) and the Reformation in the 16th and 17th century Europe and North America. Of course, without that Reformation, it is difficult, if not impossible, to imagine the American Revolution.

It should be truly humbling to all Americans that we share this remarkable heritage. It is not only a privilege, but a tremendous responsibility to protect this priceless heritage and pass it on unsullied to future generations of Americans.

This Thanksgiving season, let us all give thanks for the unique blessings we experience as Americans, and let us all pledge to work diligently to not only protect, but to expand our freedoms and liberties to all our citizens and those overseas who long for the freedoms we so often take for granted.

I will never forget going to Romania shortly after the fall of the U.S.S.R. to participate in a conference on religious liberty. I was meeting with the Romanian equivalent of our Attorney General. He reached behind him and pulled a book from his shelf. He opened it to the American Declaration of Independence and read, All men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Then he looked at me with tears in his eyes and said, We want what you have. I thought, How many Americans have read the Declaration of Independence, and if so, how long has it been since they last read it? Read it, read it to your family this Thanksgiving season, and let us all give thanks for all those who have sacrificed to protect our liberties.
Peace Corps volunteer Packy Malley has organized a fundraiser featuring multiple musical acts to benefit the people of Jamaica dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. Associated Press

CLEVELAND, Ohio  Additional details have been announced for Packy Malleys fundraiser to help Jamaicans in the aftermath of the hurricane that roared through the island nation in October.

Malley was on medical leave from the Peace Corps, where he served in Jamaica. After the hurricane ripped through the nation, he knew he had to do something to help.

So he created the Jamaican Hurricane Benefit and Holiday Gathering. Its 4 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, at the West Side Irish American Club, 8559 Jennings Road, Olmsted Township.

Related: Packy Malley creates Cleveland fundraiser to help Jamaicans after hurricane

Music lineup

 Carlos Jones

 Alex Bevan

 Jim and Beth Miller

 Mariama Whyte

 Umojah National Reggae Band

 JR Blessington

 Milton Blake

 PC3 Jazz Trio

JoJo Carlonis Italian Restaurant of Berea will provide the food. The event will have a cash bar.

Money raised will go to building supplies, roofing boards, generators and medical aid.

Cost is $44.52. Go to Facebook or Eventbrite to reserve tickets.

Malley, of the Malleys Chocolates family, is a former Jamaican-record disc jockey who founded the Midwest Reggae Festival in 1992. Malley attended St. Ignatius High School and Ohio State University.

As Malley said on his Facebook announcement: This event is about good people from America helping good people in Jamaica.

Hurricane Melissa was savage, slowly swirling over the nation. It was responsible for 45 deaths, displaced thousands and caused $7 billion in damages.

Malley plans to return to Jamaica in his Peace Corps role.
India and Slovenia recently took part in the 10th Session of the Joint Committee on Trade and Economic Cooperation (JCTEC) in New Delhi where sectoral cooperation was explored across agriculture, chemicals and pharmaceuticals, health, transport, energy, tourism, MSMEs, and Ayurveda and traditional systems of medicine, as well as other trade and business-related matters.The meeting was co-chaired by Joint Secretary with India's Department of Commerce, Saket Kumar, and the Director General for Economic, Cultural and Scientific Diplomacy at Slovenia's Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, Peter Japelj.They reviewed the current state of bilateral economic engagement to strengthen cooperation across key sectors and chart a forward-looking roadmap for trade and investment between the two nations. Japelj also met Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal.In financial year 2024-25, India's bilateral trade with Slovenia clocked $848.13 million, with exports worth $586.04 million and imports worth $262.09 million.India and Slovenia already have agreements on setting up a Joint Committee on Bilateral Trade and Cooperation, Scientific and Technology Cooperation, a Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement and an Agreement on Mutual Promotion and Protection of Investments.Both sides expressed optimism for an early conclusion of a balanced and mutually beneficial India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), for which a delegation from the EU is expected to come to India next month to continue talks.Over the past few months, India has held talks with several EU member countries like Germany, France, Italy, Sweden, Norway, and Romania. India and the EU are looking to conclude FTA talks within the current calendar year.
The Bombay High Court on Thursday pulled up the Maharashtra government for attributing Mumbais worsening air quality to volcanic ash from Ethiopia, refusing to accept the explanation and noting that pollution levels in the city had deteriorated well before the volcanic activity.The court was hearing a suo motu petition on Mumbais poor air quality. During the proceedings, the state governments counsel submitted that the recent spike in pollution was caused by Ethiopian volcanic ash. The bench rejected the argument and said to the state government's counsel, 'Do not blame the volcanic ashes. The city's air quality was poor long before the ashes erupted.'Petitioners placed fresh Air Quality Index (AQI) data before the court, showing that AQI levels crossed 300 in several parts of Mumbai, while parts of Navi Mumbai recorded AQI readings above 400, falling under the severe category.Earlier this week, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) Director General, Mritunjay Mohapatra, told CNBC-TV18 that volcanic ash had no impact on air quality. The High Court also expressed concern over deteriorating air quality in Delhi and highlighted how worsening pollution levels across Indian cities were impacting public health.The suo motu petition was first taken up by the Bombay High Court in 2023.Meanwhile, BMC Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani told CNBC-TV18 that, "The civic body is closely monitoring the situation. BMC has intensified mitigation measures such as misting and sprinkling water to settle dust, deep cleaning of roads, and issuing stop-work notices to construction sites depending on the AQI levels in different areas."So far, the BMC has issued stop-work notices to 62 construction sites. Areas such as Mazgaon, Deonar, Chakala, Wadala, Malad and Worli are among the worst affected.The IMD has attributed the air pollution to weak easterly and south-easterly winds, which failed to disperse pollutants. Bikram Singh, Head of IMDs West Zone, told CNBC-TV18 that, "Slightly stronger westerly winds are expected from Friday onwards, which should help disperse pollutants and lead to an improvement in air quality."


Operation Sagar Bandhu commences.



INS Vikrant and INS Udaygiri hand over relief material at Colombo. Further steps are underway. #OperationSagarBandhu https://t.co/woMrpfRs3b pic.twitter.com/yrRCmeJsmY

 Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) November 28, 2025

India on Friday, November 28, delivered essential relief supplies to cyclone-battered Sri Lanka, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveying to the island nation that New Delhi stands ready provide more aid to it to deal with the situation.New Delhi launched Operation Sagar Bandhu to assist Sri Lanka in its hour of crisis and the first tranche of relief materials were handed after the consignments were transported by Indian Navys aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and frontline ship INS Udaigiri.At least 56 people have been killed in Sri Lanka due to floods and landslides.Over 43,900 people from 12,313 families have been hit by the extreme weather conditions, according to Sri Lankan authorities.My heartfelt condolences to the people of Sri Lanka who have lost their loved ones due to Cyclone Ditwah. I pray for the safety, comfort and swift recovery of all affected families, Modi said on social media.In solidarity with our closest maritime neighbour, India has urgently dispatched relief materials and vital humanitarian assistance and disaster relief support under Operation Sagar Bandhu, he said.We stand ready to provide more aid and assistance as the situation evolves.Guided by Indias Neighbourhood First policy and Vision MAHASAGAR, India continues to stand firmly with Sri Lanka in its hour of need, he added.Modi announced the MAHASAGAR or Mutual And Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions vision for Indias engagement with the Global South during his visit to Mauritius in March.Separately External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar announced launching of Operation Sagar Bandhu to help Sri Lanka deal with deaths and destruction caused by Cyclone Ditwah.Operation Sagar Bandhu commences. INS Vikrant and INS Udaigiri hand over relief material at Colombo. Further steps are underway, he said.Indias first indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, and latest indigenous stealth frigate INS Udaygiri are in Sri Lanka to participate at a three-day International Fleet Review (IFR) that began on Thursday.The event is being hosted to mark Sri Lanka Navys 75th anniversary. It features participation of naval ships from several countries.Sri Lankan defence officials said INS Vikrant was formally requested for use of its aircraft for ongoing rescue and relief operations for the cyclone relief operations.
Pakistan on Friday once again criticised Defence Minister Rajnath Singhs remarks about its Sindh province becoming a part of India, saying his comments were deeply troubling.Addressing an event hosted by the Sindhi community in New Delhi on Sunday, Singh said that borders can change and tomorrow Sindh may return to India.Pakistans Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said the statement of the Indian defence minister was deeply troubling.India should refrain from issuing such provocative statements he said at the weekly media briefing here.Replying to a question about India not sharing the data in connection with the Indus Water Treaty, Andrabi said the Indian action was a matter of grave concern and a violation of the treaty.To another question, the spokesperson said that the ceasefire between Pakistan and Afghanistan was not a traditional ceasefire agreed after a conflict between them.Pakistan-Afghanistan ceasefire implied that there would be no terrorist attack by the Afghan-sponsored terrorist proxies into Pakistan, he said.Andrabi said there have been major terrorist attacks after this ceasefire, adding that in that sense, the ceasefire is not holding because the ceasefire was about ceasing terrorist attacks inside Pakistan by TTP and Afghan nationals using Afghan soil.If Afghan nationals are attacking, as they did so in Islamabad and elsewhere, Pakistan cannot be very optimistic about a ceasefire, which in any case is not the traditional ceasefire between the two states, he said.He also said that Pakistans military preparedness is robust and any security challenge would be addressed with the seriousness that it merits.
Working together for steady, long-term progress in global climate governance

10:03, November 28, 2025 By He Yin ( People's Daily

Tourists pose for a picture with a COP30-themed installation in Belem, Brazil. (People's Daily/Shi Yuanhao)

The 30th UN Climate Change Conference (COP30) held in Belem, Brazil, saw intensive discussions and negotiations on critical climate issues as nations collectively worked toward identifying shared solutions to the ongoing climate crisis.

As a proactive contributor and a responsible participant in global climate action, China has been participating in major agenda items and working with all stakeholders to ensure COP30 deliver positive and balanced outcomes. These efforts demonstrate China's leading role in global climate governance and its image as a responsible major country, contributing greater stability and certainty to the global climate process.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement, a critical juncture for global climate governance. The latest Emissions Gap Report 2025 released by the UN Environment Programme shows that the world is facing significant challenges in achieving the Paris Agreement's key climate goals. A particularly concerning issue is the widening gap between climate-finance commitments and actual financial needs. Meanwhile, some countries remain reluctant to advance energy transitions, leaving the world grappling with a "double deficit" in both momentum and trust.

At this moment, it is crucial for nations to uphold true multilateralism, strengthen solidarity and cooperation, adhere to the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, and translate commitments into concrete action to ensure steady and sustained progress in global climate governance.

During COP30, China has played a positive and constructive role, working with all parties to support the Brazilian presidency in ensuring the conference's success. China remains committed to helping chart the course and create conditions for global climate governance in the next decade, on the basis of upholding multilateralism and focusing on implementation.

Photo shows wind turbine blades to be exported, manufactured by an enterprise in Nantong, east China's Jiangsu province. (Photo/Xu Congjun)

China hosted a series of side events at the China Pavilion, focusing on key themes such as China's roadmap for carbon peaking and carbon neutrality, its energy transition, and new-energy development, sharing its experience and insights for global climate governance. As President of COP30 Andre Correa do Lago noted, China is developing solutions that benefit everyone.

Harmony between humanity and nature is a defining hallmark of Chinese modernization. China has made carbon peaking and carbon neutrality a national strategy, established the most systematic and comprehensive carbon reduction policy framework in the world, and built the largest and fastest-growing renewable energy system, the largest and most complete new energy industrial chain, and achieved the world's largest and fastest promotion and adoption of new energy vehicles. As the world's largest developing country, China will achieve the highest reduction in carbon emission intensity and complete the transition from peak carbon to carbon neutrality quicker than any other country. Its pursuit of green development continues to inject new momentum into global sustainable development.

In tackling climate change, China remains a steadfast advocate of multilateralism, a strong proponent of international cooperation, a major contributor to low-carbon technologies, and an important leader in the global green transition.

China has fully and proactively implemented the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement, making significant strides toward its 2030 nationally determined contributions (NDCs). Notably, China has already achieved key targets ahead of schedule, such as the total installed capacity of wind and solar power and increases in forest stock volume.

By the end of October 2025, China had signed 55 memoranda of understanding on South-South cooperation to address climate change with 43 developing countries. Additionally, China has also submitted its 2035 NDC to the UNFCCC Secretariat, which for the first time covers all economic sectors and all greenhouse gasses.

China's growing influence in the global energy transition has been widely acknowledged by the international community. It has made significant contributions to global climate response, particularly in supporting developing countries, and has inspired other nations to jointly pursue a more sustainable future. As a responsible major country, China has become a pivotal leader in global climate governance through its substantive actions and commitments.

Climate change presents a global challenge demanding collective action from all sides. China will continue accelerating its comprehensive transition toward green and low-carbon development to strengthen its contribution to addressing climate change. Developed countries, for their part, must uphold their historical responsibilities, lead efforts in reducing emissions, and provide developing countries with sufficient financial, technological, and capacity-building support.

It is hoped that all parties can build on the outcomes of COP30, advance climate multilateralism, accelerate the global transition toward green and low-carbon development, and work together toward a clean, more sustainable world that benefits all humanity.

Photo shows solar panels installed on rooftops of buildings in an industrial park in Fuzhou, east China's Jiangxi province. (Photo/Xie Dong)

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Veep is one of the most awarded comedy television shows of all time. The show was so prescient that even six years after ending, punchlines still seem to predict the future. But even a show that mostly stayed at the top of its game has some weak spots.

For Veep, those moments mostly occurred after the departure of original showrunner Armando Iannucci following the fourth season of the show. The post-Iannucci episodes were still hilariousand often exceedingly incisive in their portrayal of American politiciansbut the show also struggled to balance out scathing punchlines with sometimes-unwatchable levels of cruelty from already-unlikable characters.

Don't Miss

The worst of this was in Season 6, Episode 8, titled Judge.

In the episode, Vice President Selina Meyer (Julia Louise-Dreyfus) takes her entourage down to White City, Alabama to celebrate her bag man Garys (Tony Hale) 40th birthday in his hometown. This is where Selina gets to meet Garys mother, Imogene (Jean Smart) and his father, Judge (Stephen Root).

Judge is a cruel, possibly closeted, man with a total lack of respect for his son and his perspective. This pitting of Garys psyche against his father's doesnt inspire much laughter. Somehow, across seven seasons of television that includes jokes about school shooters, abortion, the failure to liberate Tibet, suicide, corruption, terroism, eating disorders, disabled veterans, and the total mockery that is the U.S. government, watching Gary get bullied by his father and Selina is almost too sad to bear.

In the climax, Selina steals a story Gary meant to tell about his father for her own desperate attempt to win favor. Its a classic Selina movesomething she does throughout the show. Somehow though, watching her do it to Gary when she knows his horrid family situation was too brutal. It felt too low, even for a woman who once made her chief of staff, Amy Brookheimer (Anna Chlumsky), claim that Selinas pregnancy test was her own from a miscarriage.

Advertisement

Selinas betrayal of Gary for her own benefit foreshadows the finale. That episode winds up changing Garys life, but the disloyalty in Judge makes it the hardest one to watch.
What weird spell does Angela Rayner cast upon Keir Starmer?

The Prime Minister melts like a ball of grease at the mere mention of her name. In his saucer eyes, darling Ange can do no wrong, despite that little local difficulty when she failed to pay enough stamp duty on a property during her tenure as housing minister.

Not a good look. Indeed, one that forced her resignation, but so what? Sir Keir doesnt care. He has made no secret of the fact that he wants her back in his Cabinet and this week praised her as the best example ever of social mobility in the UK.

Oh, come off it. John Major, for example, was the son of a circus performer, grew up in a flat in Brixton, left school at 16 and went on to become prime minister.

Betty Boothroyd was the daughter of two mill workers, lived in a terraced house in Dewsbury and was a Tiller Girl before becoming an MP and the first female Speaker of the House of Commons.

Angela Rayner is nothing special in any regard, but Starmer craves her authenticity the way the Scarecrow in the Wizard of Oz craves a brain. He would not be just a muffin, with his head all full of stuffin, as the song goes, if he only had an Ange.

He recently said he was proud of her journey from council house to Cabinet and added that she gave many working-class children, particularly girls, a real sense of aspiration.

So patronising  and yet this is how closet poshos like him really think about us povvos scrabbling around in the gutter of life, desperate for a saviour to rise from these streets.

'In his saucer eyes, darling Ange can do no wrong,' writes Jan Moir

As a working-class girl myself I see Angela Rayner as an embarrassment to our kind, not an inspiration. With her vaping and Venom cocktails and her suspect property deals not only does she let the side down but  just like Chancellor Rachel Reeves  when the going gets tough she blames her gender and her background for any criticism. And that is what is really unforgiveable.

Both Rayner and Reeves claim that as working-class female politicians they face unfair scrutiny and abuse, with the implication being that a lot of the disapproval that comes their way is motivated by sexism and classism.

However, there could be another explanation. What if it is because they are both just bloody useless?

Rayner was last seen limping into the sunset in her R2-D2 Star Wars heels back in September. But just like Yoda and the gang, she will be back. Darth Starmer will make sure of that.

Meanwhile, before delivering her chaotic Budget on Wednesday, Reeves loftily told a newspaper she was sick of people mansplaining how to be Chancellor to me and added: I recognise that Ive got a target on me. You can see that in the media; theyre going for me all the time.

Rachel! What are you talking about? It is the medias job to hold politicians to account, especially those  like you  holding one of the great Offices of State, not to mention a senior position in government.

And we have done so for every failing Chancellor since Winston Churchill returned the pound to the gold standard in 1925. Kwasi Kwarteng was spared no quarter when he blew up the markets in 2022. Architect of austerity George Osborne was repeatedly attacked over his policies. And 50 years ago, even that old bruiser Denis Healey once said that he had to grow a thick skin to cope with it all.

What makes Rachel think she is any different? What makes Angela believe she, too, is a special case? Both have big tough jobs at the sharp end of politics, but wilt like wallflowers and bawl like cry-babies at the first sign of trouble.

Sir Keir and Angela Rayner during the concert celebrating the 80th anniversary of VE Day in May

I suspect the truth is that  deep down  both of them expect preferential kid glove treatment because they are women who have risen to Cabinet level, believing that this somehow confers a special status and gives them an automatic respect.

And please, guv, some luvverly extra deference for the mutual humble backgrounds, ta muchly.

Well, it doesnt work like that. You only had to look at Rachel Reeves face when Kemi Badenoch delivered her blistering response to the Budget.

She looked tearful, puzzled, shocked, hurt and utterly stricken  as if someone had just stolen her Jelly Tots at a kiddy party. You have to wonder what she expected. Applause?

Some have condemned the personal nature of Badenochs attack, but  as a woman considering a woman criticising a woman  I believe she was entirely justified in mocking the Chancellors risible attempts to deflect criticism as mansplaining. And the rest. The Conservative leaders straight talking, take-no-prisoners approach seemed to connect with those ordinary people who despair at the chaos, the U-turns and the lies we have been fed over this Budget and indeed, everything else since Labour were elected.

In a bleak week for politics Kemi was the only spark of hope  especially when one considers that weve got over three more years of this rubbish to go.

In the meantime, the PM loves his working-class heroines; he dreams of the return of his Angela and he praises his Rachel and often reminds everyone that she is the first woman to hold the office of Chancellor in its 800-year history.

The pity of it all is that if she carries on like this, she just might be the last.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex took a break from saving the world to help pack meals for poor people in Los Angeles this week. How lovely that a photographer was on hand to capture this golden act of mercy; Megan in a pinny, Harry looking brave and handsome as he filled a polystyrene box with sliced peppers. Of course, back in Britain our royals do exactly the same kind of charity work  but without the self-congratulatory air and the censored kiddies.

For I do wish Harry and Meghan would make up their minds about their childrens privacy. Either Archie and Lili are part of the process and a useful marketing tool, or they are not. Either keep them out of the picture or happily include them. Blanking out their faces or only showing the back of their heads is just an annoying affectation. Show up, do good? If you say so.

Dress for less? Unusually, Strictly hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly both wore outfits from the High Street on Sunday nights results show. Claudia was in a 23 leopard-print shift from H&M, while Tess climbed aboard a 161 velvet halterneck dress from Karen Millen. They both looked fabulous  which just proves you dont have to spend thousands on designer outfits, jewellery and accessories to look good  but try telling that to Anton Du Beke.

Baubles to subtlety! I'd love a bright Christmas

Michelle Keegan and Mark Wright have been roasted for the Christmas decor they have installed at their Essex mansion.

Not so much for their taste in tinsel, more that the extravagant display inside and out is apparently flaunting their wealth.

Oh, the mean politics of envy is everywhere these days, not just baked into the Budget.

I really hope the couple just ignore the moaners and celebrate their Christmas exactly as they please.

Yes, their house is lit up like Blackpool Illuminations, but so what? I see every bulb and bauble as a triumph of hope and cheer against the long, dark winter ahead.

Anyway, designer and taste arbiter Nicky Haslam says the whole point of Christmas decorations is that there should be a wasteful extravagance. However, he does have rules, including the dictum that decorations shouldnt be up for ages because that is annoying.

He only likes just-picked ivy and holly. He used to hate scented candles, now he insists on Lily of the Valley ones from Bamford and a mystical theme throughout.

Food and drink? I worship mince pies, he booms. He serves cocktails with sausages on sticks and pastel-coloured fairy cakes from the Co-op. He also advises buying cheap Co-op vodka and decanting it into fancy bottles.

Only super-posh people like Nicky can get away with such flagrant one-downmanship.

Michelle and Mark and the rest of us can only throw another bauble on the tree and hope for the best.

Doctor's ban should be for ever

Dr Rahmeh Aladwan has been handed a 15-month suspension from the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service for comments she made on X

Dr Rahmeh Aladwan is furious after being handed a 15-month suspension from the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service for alleged anti-Semitic and pro-terrorism comments she made on X.

The panel found that the nature of her comments posed a risk to public confidence and cited posts in which Dr Aladwan, who is British-Palestinian, referred to Hamas members as oppressed resistance fighters, not terrorists and martyrs, then described October 7 as the day Israel was humiliated.

Additional posts reportedly mocked female Israeli hostages, branded Britains Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis as Rabbi Genocide, claimed the Holocaust was a fabricated victim narrative, compared Zionism to Nazism and described Jewish people as the most despicable people on the planet.

Her lawyer argued that it was political speech and not hate speech, but thankfully no one was much impressed with that line of defence.

However, I dont think a suspension is enough. Why should someone with such ugly views be allowed to practise medicine in the first place?

A Fergie tell-all interview? She'd only damage herself

The royals are reportedly worried that Sarah Ferguson might do an interview with an American network

Fergie is a loose cannon  tell us something new. Now that she is dumped and broke and madder than ever, the royals are worried the former Duchess of York might do an interview with an American network for a six-figure sum. But what truth bombs has Ferg got in her arsenal?

What could she possibly say that would damage the Windsors yet make herself look good? Her credibility is non-existent and she has been exposed as the greedy liar she was all along.

It wasnt that long ago she was pretending in public that she had spurned Jeffrey Epstein, yet still grovelling to him in private, ever hopeful of another sixpence being thrown her way.

Let her do the interviews, I say. The only person she can make things worse for is herself.
Not Tom Utley's ideal picture of a son-in-law: The Mail's op-ed writer says he would have to draw on all his acting skills to feign delight at such a union

When our 27-year-old son and his long-standing girlfriend announced their intention to marry, I felt I had a duty to fake surprise.

In fact, Id known from almost the first moment I saw them together that they would end up at the altar, judging that they were made for each other and no other outcome was imaginable.

As for our other feelings, my wife and I had no need to feign our unqualified joy at the prospect of welcoming Lisa into the family. Pretty, clever, accomplished and sweet-natured, she is everything a loving parent could wish for in a daughter-in-law.

Which brings me to a surreal thought that has been haunting me all week. How would I have felt if our son had announced that he would like to present his intended . . . and into the room, blushing prettily, had tiptoed not the lovely Lisa, 32, but the gargantuan, shambling form of our official national treasure, 57-year-old Stephen Fry?

In the case of Robert and Melinda Spencer, aged 57 and 52 respectively, this is no mere outlandish fantasy. It is something theyve actually experienced. For they are the parents of Elliott  27, like our newlywed son  a stand-up comedian who is to be married to Mr Fry.

Of course, it wont have come as a shock to the Spencers since they must surely have known their son is gay. And I must say they have behaved impeccably, telling the Press what any son would wish his parents to say about his choice of spouse.

Were over the moon, said Elliotts dad, a surveyor, while his wife added that the couple had known each other for quite a long time, and she had met Mr Fry many times. Its great news, she said.

Now, for all I know, they were expressing the unembellished truth  and if they had any private doubts, they did a good job of keeping them to themselves.

But if they genuinely had no such reservations about welcoming Mr Fry as a future son-in-law, all I can suggest is that they are very atypical of our generation.

As for myself, I confess that in their circumstances I would have had to draw on all my acting skills to put on even an unconvincing display of pleasure.

Certainly, I would have sought reassurance in running through the positives, reminding myself that its not the parents feelings that matter on these occasions, but only the childrens. After all, if the happy couple love each other, and if it looks like lasting, that must be what counts for most.

I would have told myself that any spouse of Mr Fry could at least look forward to being very comfortably off for the rest of his days, jetting hither and thither to meet all sorts of interesting and famous people.

Indeed, Elliott seems to have been having a whale of a time with his fiance, tweeting breathless accounts from all over the world about his meetings with George Clooney and his wife Amal (they are as lovely as they seem), Al Pacino (cant believe I met him the other week), Emma Thompson (lovely company), Jimmy Carr, David Cameron and J.K. Rowling, who declared him a member of Gryffindor house at Hogwarts.

I would also remind myself that Mr Fry is a man of many gifts, who can be hugely engaging company. Indeed, on the one occasion I met him, he was courtesy and charm itself.

So much for the plus-side of the match. But then I think of the minuses  and, lets face it, they amount to a pretty impressive pile.

First, theres that dramatic age gap  and before I expose myself to a Twitter storm of hatred from the gay lobby (Ill risk doing that in a moment), let me say that I would have felt pretty squeamish if our 27-year-old had said he planned to marry a woman of 57.

At the risk of being branded an appalling hypocrite, since even at 61 I can see the attractions of women in their 20s and 30s, I reckon I would also have felt very uncomfortable if any 27-year-old daughter of mine had thrown in her lot with a man of Mr Frys age.

Then there are his much publicised fits of deep depression, which must surely be a worry (though let us hope that marriage will help lift that veil).

I would have very strong reservations, too, about Mr Frys unapologetic past abuse of cocaine  a drug whose trade has left a trail of blood across the West Indies and South America, blighting the lives of millions.

If I were his father-in-law, I know that I would also have great trouble suppressing my irritation over his twee use of language (a certain cat is out of a certain bag, adorable tweets are bringing me close to sobbing). However, I can see that this is a trivial objection, which I could probably overcome for the duration of a family Christmas dinner.

Betrothed: Fry, 57, with his fiance Elliot Spencer, 27, whose parents have said they are 'over the moon' at the prospect of their son's marriage to the actor and comedian who has earned a place as a national treasure

But I can delay that potential Twitter storm no longer. For Id be disingenuous to pretend I dont also have difficulty in accepting the idea that a man can marry another man, or a woman a woman.

I entreat you not to misunderstand me. It would break my heart if any son of mine felt I was such a bigot that he couldnt tell me he was gay, or thought that Id love him any the less for it. Id also like it on record that I came round long ago to civil partnerships, and Im a little ashamed of my initial opposition to them.

But as I understand marriage, its an institution for child-rearing and mutual support between the sexes, which means the real thing can only be between a man and a woman.

Of course, youre welcome to say that my views are Neanderthal and dont matter a damn. But it is surely an incontrovertible fact that many millions share them.

I strongly suspect, too, that some of my other objections to the Fry-Spencer match will have occurred to many, if not most, parents of 27-year-olds.

But here is the truly remarkable thing. In all the copious coverage of the engagement over the past eight days, Ive detected only two raised eyebrows. One belonged to the Mails own, ever-brave Amanda Platell, who drew disapproving attention to the age-gap. The other was a throwaway line from our equally doughty Sarah Vine, who floated the idea that a part of Mr Frys appeal to his fiance may lie in the latters showbiz connections.

But no other paper that Ive read has suggested theres anything otherwise remarkable about this forthcoming marriage  let alone anything iffy or rum. Nor has anyone attempted to exploit the story for comic potential  odd, surely, since both participants are comedians.

Even the Sun  notorious in the past for such headlines as Pulpit poofters on a story about gay vicars  treated the story exactly as it would have done any heterosexual engagement, reporting: Loved-up Stephen Fry is deeply touched by the response to our revelations yesterday that he plans to marry toy-boy lover Elliott Spencer.

Mutual support: Fry arrives with Spencer at Cwmbran Magistrates court in South Wales, where the latter appeared charged with speeding offences last week

One possible explanation is that my trade has been seized by a collective fit of sensitivity to other peoples feelings. But I see no evidence of that elsewhere, as we go on mocking politicians, accusing famous actresses of being too fat or too thin, or laying into minor royals for their ghastly taste in clothes.

No, the truth is that most of us are simply terrified of the awesome power of the gay lobby to silence criticism. In particular, were scared of Mr Frys ability to mobilise his Twitter mob of 8.3 million followers, condemning us at the touch of a send button to torrents of abuse if we give a hint of offence.

Of course, some may say this is a salutary development. But can it ever be truly healthy if newspapers dont dare print thoughts harboured by millions  whether about mass immigration, benefits for single parents, gay marriage or anything else short of incitement to violence?

One final question. This was the week celebrities and politicians from all over the free world linked arms in defence of a Paris magazines right to give gratuitous offence to Muslims. OK, nobody is going to shoot me. But how many of them, I wonder, would show the same solidarity with a paper that showed similar disrespect for Mr Frys nuptial arrangements?
Of all the hysterical scares about the Brexit vote, the nuttiest Ive heard is this weeks theory that it may have caused a collapse of self-confidence among young British women.

Such was the suggestion put forward  apparently with a straight face  by a group calling itself the Young Womens Trust (YWT), as it unveiled a survey of 4,000 under-30s, asking about their troubles and anxieties.

This finds that 54 per cent of women aged 18-30 claim they lack self-confidence, compared with only 39 per cent of men in the same age group.

A group of young women take to the waters of Ullswater in the Lake District to cool off recently. But are women like this really lacking in self-confidence?

Meanwhile, the number of young women saying they are worried about their future has apparently risen in a single year from 38 per cent to 55 per cent.

As it warns that a generation of females is growing up tortured by anxiety, self-doubt and despair, the YWT solemnly declares: A Brexit factor when comparing this year to last cannot be ruled out, given that the fieldwork for the 2016 survey took place immediately after the referendum on UK membership of the EU.

I confess that even before I reached that sentence, I suspected this report was a load of old tosh.

Yes, I was quite prepared to believe that many more young women than men had told the pollsters they lacked self-confidence. After all, women through the ages have been much more open about their feelings and insecurities than my own, more reticent sex.

But anyone who has encountered males and females in this age-group  and I write as the father of four sons, three of them under 30  will surely testify that in the self-confidence stakes, the lasses beat the lads hands down.

Of course, there are exceptions of both sexes. But in my experience, the female friends of our offspring are ten times more outgoing and easier to talk to than the monosyllabic, introspective males.

This greater self-confidence must go some way to explaining why young women these days often find it easier to land jobs than their male contemporaries.

Young men might be loud and full of machismo, but do they actually possess more self-confidence than young women deep down? I don't think so

As the Office for National Statistics (ONS) reports, last year, women aged 22-29 in full-time work were typically better paid, too.

It is also worth noting that figures released last month by the university admissions service UCAS showed 27,400 more women than men were offered places at the first time of asking this year.

I might add that girls  being more gregarious, better at forming friendships and readier to get on with strangers  tend to move out of the family nest and into flat-shares at a younger age than boys, who linger ever longer at home (though Im not naming names!)

All of which makes me wonder about some of the other complaints in the YWT survey.

Take the claim that 39 per cent of young women struggle to make their wages last until the end of the month, compared with only 27 per cent of young men.

Clearly, the YWT wants us to draw the inference that females in this age-group are harder-up than males. But since the ONS suggests the opposite (where full-time employees are concerned), dare I put forward an alternative explanation?

Could it be that career women tend to spend more cash than men, on such things as clothes, shoes and make-up?

Even in these gender-fluid times, after all, retail therapy remains a distinctively feminine cure for lifes ills.

To many of us chaps  at least three of my four sons included  shopping remains as grim an ordeal as sitting through an hour of Strictly Come Dancing or The Great British Bake Off.

To be fair, another reason for twenty-something womens comparative shortage of funds before payday may be that they are more likely to have homes to call their own, with rent to pay and food to buy, while less self-confident males remain in the family nest (though I mustnt sound obsessed).

But this cannot be construed as evidence that they are hard done by.

Or take the surveys finding that 30 per cent of young women say they have experienced sex discrimination when working or looking for work.

To me, the only surprise was that the figure was so low.

But this is not because I believe there is widespread discrimination against women any more (though there was when I was starting out in the world of work).

Indeed, most of the figures suggest the contrary, what with the gender pay gap fast closing and women overtaking men, not only in university places but also in admission to most of the professions, including medicine, the law and now the Church.

No, the only reason Im surprised that just 30 per cent complain of sex discrimination is that feminist groups never cease telling women that such bigotry is endemic.

You cant switch on Womans Hour or Newsnight, or open The Guardian, without being told its a scandal that there are too few female engineers, heart surgeons or whatever.

So successful have they been in putting across this message that three-quarters of the women surveyed (and even 54 per cent of the men) said they believed sex discrimination is still rife in the workplace  which makes it all the more remarkable that less than a third claim to have suffered it themselves.

With this ready-made excuse, you might think that any woman turned down for a job or promotion, which went instead to a man, might be tempted to blame old-fashioned male chauvinism. All credit to womens fair-mindedness that so few do.

What I would like to know is how many young men claim to have suffered sex discrimination in the workplace.

After all, there are plenty these days who are passed over for jobs or promotion in favour of women (I can think of three off the top of my head).

But alas, the survey gives no figure. In the right-on world of the YWT, unlike the real world, the phenomenon of sex discrimination against men appears not to exist.

But then this organisation makes no secret of its militant feminist credentials, bemoaning the fact that only 1 per cent of its young interviewees thought construction work best suited to women, while 59 per cent believed it more fitted to men.

It draws comfort, however, from its finding that 71 per cent believe engineering is equally suited to both sexes.

Are young women coming under pressure to adopt traditionally masculine careers that clash with their feminine instincts?

There are encouraging, albeit early signs, of reduced gender stereotyping of roles among young people, says the report. Compared with last year, significantly more people said that jobs were equally suited to young men and young women.

But why should this be thought encouraging?

Call me a Neanderthal, but I would say there are clear differences between the sexes  not just physical  which make some jobs eminently more suited to men than women, and vice versa.

Indeed, isnt it just possible that one of the reasons why 46 per cent of young women say they feel worn down, while 38 per cent worry about their mental health, may be that they are under constant pressure from organisations such as YWT to adopt traditionally masculine careers that clash with their feminine instincts?

Of course, other reasons must include the pressures of social media, the work-life balance and the modern female neurosis about body image.

It is even conceivable, I suppose, that impressionable young women were plunged into gloom by Brexit (in which case, shame on you, Georgie Porgie Osborne, for making the girls cry with your absurd scaremongering).

But I reckon a hell of a lot of the blame lies with pressure groups such as YWT, which refuse to accept the animal nature of homo sapiens and the psychological differences between the sexes.

What is this YWT, anyway? Fascinatingly, it turns out to be the new name of the good old YWCA  the Young Womens Christian Association, founded in 1855 to offer comfort, education and support, in a warm Christian atmosphere to single women arriving in London from the countryside.

Now hijacked by feminists and reinvented as a worldwide human rights-based organisation, its trustees include two close former aides of Gordon Brown  Deborah Mattinson and the Labour peeress Sue Nye. Enough said.
A pancreatic cancer specialist has warned that thousands of people could be mistaking little-known signs of the disease for common health issues.

Dubbed the 'silent killer' due to its subtle symptoms, pancreatic cancer kills around 10,000 people in the UK every year.

According to the charity Pancreatic Cancer Action, it is the deadliest common cancer and, currently, more than half of people die within three months of diagnosis.

Eight in ten cases are diagnosed too late. This is because common symptoms are often mistaken for other, more common ailments such as IBS.

Now, Dr Neville Menezes, a consultant pancreatic surgeon at Ashford and St Peters Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and a founding member of the charity has urged Britons to be vigilant for specific symptoms of the disease.

He said: 'Pancreatic cancer can develop quietly. By the time symptoms become severe, the disease is often advanced.

'Recognising subtle changes in your body and acting quickly can make all the difference.

'These symptoms don't always mean pancreatic cancer, but if they persist for more than four weeks, it's crucial to see your GP.'

Your browser does not support iframes.

Dr Neville Menezes, a consultant pancreatic surgeon at Ashford and St Peters Hospital NHS Foundation Trust has urged Britons to be vigilant for specific symptoms of the disease

The often overlooked symptom is 'persistent abdominal or back pain that doesn't go away and does not respond to medical treatment,' he added.

The second, meanwhile, is unexplained weight loss or a persistent loss of appetite.

Known medically as Cachexia, or wasting syndrome, the symptom causes extreme loss of muscle and fat.

People with early-stage cancers dont usually get cachexia, research shows.

But up to four in five of people with advanced cancer develop some degree of cachexia.

In cancer, it's thought to be driven by inflammation.

That's because inflammation can promote muscle wastage and a tumour can take energy away from the rest of the body.

Jaundice, when the skin or eyes turn yellow, which is often accompanied by dark urine or pale stools, is another key sign, Dr Menezes said.

His warning follows a concerning rise in the illness, which also claimed the life of actor Alan Rickman in 2016, just six months after his diagnosis

Digestive issues, such as nausea, indigestion, bloating or changes in bowel habits that are persisting for no apparent reason,' may also indicate pancreatic cancer, he added.

Such signs, are also key indicators of potential bowel cancer.

Itchy skin and 'new-onset diabetes' which has been recently diagnosed with no prior history of it, are the other key symptoms of pancreatic cancer, he added.

This is because the pancreas produces hormones such as insulin and glucagon, which help convert sugar from food into energy.

Pancreatic cancer can inhibit the gland from making enough of these hormones  which can lead to unstable blood sugar levels.

His warning follows a concerning rise in the illness, which also claimed the life of actor Alan Rickman in 2016, just six months after his diagnosis.

Cases have risen by almost ten per cent in last decade and it is estimated there could be around 16,000 new cases of pancreatic cancer in the UK by 2040.
A pioneering stem cell treatment could extend the lives of thousands of people with heart failure  but final trials to see it rolled out on the NHS are being hampered by a lack of funding.

The procedure has been shown to regenerate damaged heart cells, providing a lifeline for patients who otherwise have only months to live.

Stem cells are the body's raw material for self-repair.

They can become any type of specialist cell and by using them, experts have for the first time, successfully reversed heart damage.

However, the treatment is being offered to a few hundred patients  and without funding for the final trials it will not be made available on the NHS.

Professor Anthony Mathur, a cardiologist at Barts Health NHS Trust in London who pioneered the therapy, said: 'We have shown that we are able to dramatically improve patients' heart health, extend their life and improve quality of life for people who had been given no other option.

'However, we are having to rely on charitable funding and can currently only treat a select number of patients with end stage heart failure.'

Heart failure is a deadly condition in which the heart cannot pump blood as well as it should.

Your browser does not support iframes.

It is incurable and steadily worsens, causing symptoms such as breathlessness, fatigue and swelling that can become so severe that sufferers may need emergency treatment.

An estimated one million Britons have the condition  which usually develops after a heart attack  and there are around 200,000 diagnoses every year.

The initial trials for the stem cell therapy have focused on those with end-stage heart failure who have failed to respond to standard approaches.

Researchers suggest there are some 100,000 people who fit that criteria.

But Professor Mathur says the procedure could also benefit thousands of other patients before their condition deteriorates, meaning their lives may be extended.

Patients on the trial undertake a five-day course of injections that activate their own stem cells before they are extracted from bone marrow on day six.

These are processed at a laboratory before being injected back into an artery near the heart.

'Eight in ten patients feel better within a month of treatment,' Professor Mathur added.

One of those who has experienced a miracle turnaround from the treatment is 80-year-old Veronica Merry

Tests revealed that her heart function had gone from 40 per cent to 65 per cent, which is back in the normal range

One of those who has experienced a miracle turnaround from the treatment is 80-year-old Veronica Merry.

Two years ago, the great grandmother was diagnosed with acute heart failure and told she had 18 months left.

It followed a decade-long struggle with heart problems and three failed operations before doctors decided there was no other treatment available to her.

She deteriorated rapidly, leaving her housebound, unable to complete basic tasks and her quality of life 'virtually nonexistent'.

Ms Merry said: 'I couldn't even walk up the stairs or put the vacuum round without collapsing in a chair. I had to give up doing the things I loved.'

That was until a newspaper article alerted her to the new heart procedure, which she received in August 2023.

Just weeks later she experienced a new lease of life and was able to go on holiday and spend time with her grandchildren.

Tests revealed that her heart function had gone from 40 per cent to 65 per cent, which is back in the normal range.

The Heart Cells Foundation was founded by Jennifer Rosenberg and her late husband Ian who was one of the first patients to recieve the pioneering treatment in Germany

'I never thought I'd feel this well again,' she said.

'For three years I missed out on so much. Now I can jump in my car, go shopping, visit my family  just live my life.'

St Bartholomew's Hospital currently offers the treatment through a compassionate care programme, funded by the charity Heart Cells Foundation.

This week the team at Barts, funded by the charity Heart Cells Foundation, set out their plans for a phase III clinical trial for 700 patients. This is the final hurdle before a new therapy can be rolled out on the NHS.

Barts is the only centre in the world to offer stem cell therapy and some 500 heart failure patients have been treated through early trials and a compassionate unit programme.

Results have been remarkable, and the team is seeking investors to get the phase III trial, which requires 10 million in funding, over the line.

The procedure costs about 12,000, compared with 300,000 for a heart transplant.

But analysis from the York Health Economics Consortium found that rolling it out on the NHS would be cost-saving or cost-neutral.

Heart failure accounts for one million hospital bed days and 100,000 admissions a year.

Without NHS funding for the trial, the charity have resorted to fundraising.

Jenifer Rosenberg OBE, founder of the Heart Cells Foundation said: What began as a personal mission after my husband Ians diagnosis has grown into one of the most promising breakthroughs in heart failure treatment anywhere in the world.

We now have the science, the clinical experience, and the real-world results.

'This Phase III trial gives us the opportunity to turn two decades of progress into a treatment that could transform care for many patients suffering with heart failure.

If we succeed, the UK will become the first country to offer regenerative therapy for heart failure through its national health service. That is an extraordinary moment for patients and for the NHS.
Government advisors are today expected to reject calls for a widespread prostate cancer screening programme in a major blow to British men.

Health secretary Wes Streeting will now come under pressure from charities and MPs to 'show leadership' and overrule the panel, as is within his power.

The UK National Screening Committee yesterday met to consider the latest evidence on the costs and benefits before issuing its highly anticipated recommendation to ministers.

It is understood to have ruled out widespread population screening and targeted screening of black men and those with a family history of disease, who are at higher risk.

Instead, it is thought to have advised focusing only on those with particular genetic mutations, which raise their odds of developing tumours.

It comes despite a major study last month found screening men for prostate cancer slashes their risk of dying from the disease by 13 per cent, with one such death prevented for every 456 men checked - a figure that is comparable to existing breast and bowel cancer screening programmes.

The draft guidance from the committee will be formally published this afternoon and will then be subject to a 12 week public consultation.

Prostate cancer is now the most common cancer in the UK, with 63,000 cases and 12,000 deaths each year - but unlike breast, bowel and lung cancer, there is currently no national screening programme.

Screening men for prostate cancer slashes their risk of dying from the disease by 13 per cent

The Daily Mail is campaigning to end needless prostate cancer deaths and for a national prostate cancer screening programme, initially targeted at high risk men, such as those who are black, have a family history of the disease or particular genetic mutations.

Mr Streeting told MPs on Tuesday he would consider the conclusions carefully and thrash out the arguments to reach the right way forward.

More than 120 MPs signed a letter that former prime minister Rishi Sunak delivered to Mr Streeting on Monday, saying a prostate cancer screening programme would be a legacy-defining advance for mens health

And David Cameron, another former Conservative prime minister, revealed on Sunday that he has been treated for prostate cancer as he gave his backing to the routine checks.

A poll published on the eve of the crunch decision found nine in ten people want a prostate cancer screening programme.

The survey of 3,000 UK adults shows 90 per cent wanted members to back the life-saving initiative, describing it as important.

This includes 62 per cent who say rolling out routine checks to help catch the disease early when it is easier to treat is very important.

Women with sons and grandsons were among the strongest supporters.

It has been five years since the committee last considered introducing prostate screening, meaning tens of thousands more men are likely to die from the disease if takes as long to revisit its decision again.

The OnePoll survey, commissioned by Prostate Cancer Research, found support for prostate cancer screening is strongest among older people, rising to 95 per cent among those aged 65 and over.

Only 37 per cent of respondents knew there is currently no screening programme, 40 per cent said the Government is performing badly on improving early diagnosis of cancer and 63 per cent say it is not doing enough to reduce health inequalities.

The public is in favour of a screening programme that initially targets men at highest risk, in line with the Daily Mails campaign.

Four in five (80 per cent) support this approach and only 4 per cent oppose the idea.

Prostate cancer screening was supported by people across the political spectrum, the poll found, underlining the political risk of ignoring public sentiment on the issue, Prostate Cancer Research said.
Wes Streeting is under mounting pressure to launch a prostate cancer screening programme for all high-risk men despite advisors today rejecting the proposal.

Charities, patients and MPs say the health secretary should show leadership and use his powers to defy the bombshell recommendation from the UK National Screening Committee.

They warn a failure to act now will condemn thousands more men to avoidable deaths.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in the UK, with 63,000 cases and 12,000 deaths each year - but unlike breast, bowel and lung cancer, there is currently no national screening programme.

Former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, an ambassador for the charity Prostate Cancer Research, described the committees recommendation as deeply disappointing.

He added: This is a missed opportunity to make a generational difference to male health, and to take a massive step towards tackling the most common cancer among British men.

I applaud all those who have spoken out in support of a targeted screening programme for prostate cancer.

'I can assure them that the campaign goes on; we will not give up. No family should lose a father, a brother or a son unnecessarily.

The Daily Mail is campaigning to end needless prostate deaths

The Daily Mail is among those campaigning to end needless prostate cancer deaths and for a national prostate cancer screening programme, initially targeted at high risk men, such as those who are black, have a family history of the disease or particular genetic mutations.

The UKNSC met yesterday to consider the latest evidence on the costs and benefits of screening before delivering their draft conclusions to ministers.

They ruled out widespread population screening and checks targeted at those who are black or have a family history of disease, despite these groups facing a higher risk.

Instead, they advised focusing only on those with particular genetic mutations, known as BRCA1 and BRCA2, which accounts for a mere three men in 1,000.

Half of men with these mutations will develop prostate cancer over their lifetime and a third of men with these mutations will develop aggressive prostate cancer.

The UKNSC wants this cohort to be offered a PSA blood test every two years from the ages of 45 to 61, which means around 30,000 could be eligible.

The decision to exclude almost the entire population of men comes after a major study last month showed prostate screening slashes their risk of dying from the disease by 13 per cent, with one death prevented for every 456 men checked - a figure that is comparable to existing breast and bowel cancer screening programmes.

The panel say the PSA test is not accurate enough for population-wide use and could cause more harm than good, with too many men undergoing unnecessary biopsies or surgery.

Rishi Sunak described the recommendation as 'deeply disappointing'

But Prostate Cancer Research said the recommendation was a missed opportunity and the 'historical harms associated with screening have been dramatically reduced by advances in diagnosis and treatment.

Its chief executive Oliver Kemp said a delay in widening access to screening would continue to condemn the lives of thousands more men.

He added: Todays decision to recommend screening to BRCA variant carriers does not go far enough.

It is a missed opportunity for other high-risk groups, including black men and men with family history.

We are failing these groups and entrenching inequalities further by not providing them with the best chance of having their disease caught early  when they are more likely to survive.

The draft guidance from the committee will now be subject to a 12 week public consultation, during which time other experts and interested parties can submit additional evidence for consideration.

This will be reviewed by the Committee before they issue their final recommendation in March.

Ministers usually follow the advice of the UKNSC but have the power to defy them if they believe they have got it wrong.

Former prime minister David Cameron backed screening after revealing his own prostate cancer battle

Mr Streeting told MPs on Tuesday he would consider the conclusions carefully and thrash out the arguments to reach the right way forward.

He today vowed to bring together his own group of experts with differing views before reaching a decision, leaving a glimmer of hope that targeted screening could still be rolled out on a larger scale.

Mr Streeting said: I have always said I want to see screening in place for the most common cancer in men, provided this is backed by evidence.

I want to change the NHS so it diagnoses earlier and treats faster. That aim will be balanced against the harms that wider screening could cause to men.

I will examine the evidence and arguments in this draft recommendation thoroughly, bringing together those with differing views, ahead of the final recommendation in March.

Former prime minister David Cameron, who revealed his prostate cancer diagnosis earlier this week, urged Mr Streeting to be brave and bold on screening.

Writing on X, he said: Make the first step more significant than whats being recommended. Put in place a proper, targeted screening programme that involves all those at higher-risk.

Without it, more men will die, more families will lose a loved one. This is avoidable and can be done.'

Nick Jones, prostate cancer survivor and founder of Soho House

Nick Jones, the founder of Soho House and a leading campaigner for prostate cancer screening following his own diagnosis, said: Its now up to Wes Streeting who needs to take the lead and do the right thing.

Black men and those in other high-risk groups deserve the right to an NHS targeted screening program that will save thousands of lives.

Wes - over to you.

Comedian Sir Stephen Fry, who revealed in 2018 he had undergone surgery after being diagnosed with prostate cancer, said: Men in the UK deserve so much better. I hope the country sees sense.

Men still have a right to ask their GP for a PSA blood test that can detect early signs of prostate cancer.

Experts are waiting to see data from a large trial launched by Prostate Cancer UK last week into whether combining PSA with other tests, such as rapid MRI scans, could lead to a recommendation for population-wide screening.

The UKNSC said it will work closely with this Transform trial to gather more data. It is hoped the results will be ready within two years.

Blackadder actor Sir Tony Robinson, 79, who spoke in 2023 about his diagnosis, said he was bitterly disappointed with the committee decision.

Comedian Sir Stephen Fry, a prostate cancer survivor who is backing prostate cancer screening

Sky News anchor Dermot Murnaghan, 67, who has incurable stage four prostate cancer, said: I really thought we were heading to an exciting moment here.

Im so disappointed that the committee has decided not to recommend screening  it felt about time progress was made for men.

Despite this moment not being what wed hoped, I will keep fighting until we start to turn the tide on prostate cancer.

Football World Cup winner Sir Geoff Hurst said: I think it should be mandatory for men over 45 years of age to be given bi-annual or even annual prostate testing.

I have known many people to suffer with prostate cancer, and given correct testing and early enough testing, they couldve been furnished with a much better outcome.

Sir Chris Hoy, who revealed last year his prostate cancer had spread to his bones and doctors gave him between two and four years to live, said he is 'disappointed and saddened' by the recommendation to limit prostate cancer screening.

The six-time Olympic cycling gold medallist also said introducing regular checks for men with a higher genetic risk of the disease 'is a very small step forward' but 'not enough'.

'I am determined to continue to use my platform to raise awareness, encourage open discussion, raise vital funds for further research and support, and to campaign for change.'

Sky News anchor Dermot Murnaghan, 67, who has incurable stage four prostate cancer

Former footballer Les Ferdinand and actor Colin McFarlane also shared their disappointment at the decision.

Laura Kerby, chief executive of Prostate Cancer UK, said: The committees decision will come as a blow to the tens of thousands of men, loved ones and families whove fought for a screening programme.

Today were deeply disappointed, but as determined as ever, and it wont slow us down.

People are sick and tired of seeing the men they love harmed by this disease, and we wont rest until no mans diagnosis is left to chance.

We know that a mass screening programme could save thousands of mens lives.

While screening men with BRCA gene variations will save only a fraction of that, the committees decision is the first time theyve recommended screening of any kind for prostate cancer.

It shows that research and evidence can shift the dial and save mens lives.

The UKNSC said it was working with the NHS on ways to find men with BRCA, which is also known as the Angelina Jolie gene after the 'Girl, Interrupted' actress, who had her breasts and ovaries removed when her mother died of ovarian cancer and she learned she was a carrier.

At present, men may become aware they have the fault when a woman in their family with breast cancer tests positive for BRCA.

At present, men may become aware they have the fault when a woman in their family with breast cancer tests positive for BRCA.

More than 120 MPs signed a letter to Mr Streeting on Monday, saying a prostate cancer screening programme would be a legacy-defining advance for mens health

A poll of 3,000 UK adults published on the eve of the crunch decision found nine in ten people want a prostate cancer screening programme.
A 52-year-old man was nearly blinded by a syphilis infection that attacked both of his eyes, a stark warning that the sexually transmitted disease can cause catastrophic vision loss.

The unnamed promiscuous patient, according to his doctors in Bulgaria, experienced sight loss so rapid that within a month of the onset of vision symptoms, he could only perceive light in his right eye, according to a medical report.

Doctors diagnosed him with ocular syphilis, a consequence of the sexually transmitted bacterial infection traveling to his eyes and causing severe inflammation.

The condition, which affects around 14,000 Americans and can emerge when the underlying STD goes untreated, manifests as panuveitis, a severe inflammation affecting the entire interior of the eye.

An examination revealed the extensive damage: dense floaters clouded his vision, his retina was swollen, and the inflammation was so severe in his right eye that his optic nerve was completely obscured, rendering him nearly blind.

The spread of the infection can lead to inflammation inside the eye, retinal damage and optic nerve swelling, potentially resulting in permanent blindness if not treated promptly.

Syphilis has been a major driver in a nationwide increase in sexually transmitted infections over the past two decades; most alarmingly, in newborn babies who contract it from their mothers.

The STD rarely causes ocular syphilis. Severe inflammation can damage the retina and optic nerve, risking permanent blindness if not treated quickly (stock)

Your browser does not support iframes.

Ocular inflammation is categorized as either granulomatous or non-granulomatous.

The non-granulomatous form is now more common and presents with finer eye deposits, often accompanied by back-of-the-eye issues like floaters, retinal swelling, and inflamed blood vessels and optic nerve.

The unidentified patient, who doctors reported had a history of paying for sex, first took himself to the University Hospital in Pleven, Bulgaria, on July 3, 2024 for a concerning genital rash, which was accompanied by burning and itching.

Syphilis typically starts as a genital sore. However, if left untreated, the bacteria do not remain localized.

They enter the bloodstream, spreading throughout the entire body and potentially attacking major organs, including the eyes, brain and heart.

Doctors immediately noted a rash with red bumps and pustules on his scalp and groin area, along with scaly red patches on his torso. He also reported his declining eyesight.

Blood tests quickly confirmed a syphilis infection, which affects about 200,000 Americans each year and is experiencing a dramatic rise in the US since 2020 that has seen cases soar by over 50 percent.

According to the most recent CDC data, syphilis rates in the US surged dramatically over a five-year period, reaching a peak in 2023.

Between 2020 and 2023, cases in the US increased by over 54 percent, hitting a rate of 62.5 per 100,000 people.

This close-up shows posterior synechiae, where the iris has abnormally adhered to the eye's lens due to severe internal inflammation

The man began experiencing a gradual loss of vision, starting in his right eye and then affecting his left, with his sight worsening significantly over the following month.

He was started on an aggressive treatment of intravenous penicillin and steroids for a week, followed by a series of five weekly penicillin shots to ensure the bacteria were eradicated.

The day after he was admitted, an eye specialist examined him and gave him a secondary diagnosis, syphilitic panuveitis, a specific form of ocular syphilis marked by severe inflammation affecting the entire interior of both eyes.

His vision was extremely poor; he could only perceive light in his right eye and had extremely blurry vision in his left.

The examination revealed severe inflammation throughout his eyes, with dense floaters and swelling of the retina and optic nerve so bad it was hidden in his right eye.

Doctors determined that the IV antibiotics to treat his syphilis would also address the severe eye infection. The ophthalmologist prescribed antibiotic-steroid eye drops to relieve the pain and inflammation.

After one week of treatment with IV and eye drop antibiotics, his vision had improved slightly from only seeing light to 20/2000 in his right eye and 20/200 in his left, measurements that indicate profoundly poor vision to near total blindness in his left eye.

His treatment was adjusted over the following months, including the addition of anti-inflammatory eye drops and a steroid injection around his more severely affected right eye.

This image shows a swollen optic nerve head (papillitis). The disc's margins are blurred and the nerve is slightly elevated, indicating inflammation that can damage vision

Over the 14-week follow-up period, the patient ultimately recovered to 20/25 in the right eye, leaving only a slight blur and to a perfect 20/20 in the left. The only lingering side effect was moderate sensitivity to light.

The course of treatment was successful. The dense floaters in his eyes cleared within two months and the swelling of his optic nerve resolved.

Syphilis is often called the great imitator in medicine because its symptoms can look like many other eye diseases, most commonly causing uveitis, an inflammation of the eye's middle layer.

Congenital syphilis is the fastest-growing facet of the US syphilis epidemic and the most concerning to experts.

While overall syphilis rates show a potential recent decline, cases of babies born with syphilis have skyrocketed, rising a staggering 83 percent over the past five years. The rate increased from 60.0 per 100,000 in 2020 to a projected 109.6 in 2024.
The call came in at 6.30am: Were going under. The liquidators are coming to clear us out so you need to come now and get your wine. The wine in question, worth 50,000, was in the cellar of a big City property firm and, as yet, not paid for.

For a split second, wine seller and expert Tom Gilbey froze in his Hammersmith office. The only reasonable course of action was to drop everything, drive across London, break into the cellar with the entry code provided by the whistleblower and take all of their wine back, while the chatter of liquidators filling in paperwork could be heard upstairs.

By 7.15am Tom and his men were pulling up outside, by 8.30am they had rescued the lot.

Glass half full: the infectious fun of Tom Gilbey

It may not be Dan Brown but who would have thought that selling wine would be so fraught? According to Toms fascinating new book, life in the wine world is far from simple.

Whether it be wine heists, 72-hour round trips to Spain to collect missing Christmas party season shipments, or supplying five of the best French wines to a dinner of 24 Chinese businessmen in Wellington Arch (the budget? 12,000), there is little time to put your feet up.

Tom is a popular figure on social media, dispelling the myths and banishing the snobbery of traditional wine buffs. He seems just as happy enjoying a glass of chicken wine (La Vieille Ferme to those not in the know) as he is a classically produced Chablis.

But you shouldnt doubt his credentials as he takes us on a tour of 100 wines. Not only did Gilbey grow up in his parents wine bar, surrounded by a variety of grapes, customs and tastes, but he has impeccable wine pedigree. Back in 1857 his great-great-great-grandfather Alfred Gilbey and his older brother Walter started importing good, cheap plonk from South Africa.

After only three years, W. and A. Gilbey supplied 20,000 very merry customers. Ten years later there was a shop on Oxford Street and a gin distillery in Camden, and the family were on their way to becoming one of the next great booze dynasties.

However, as with any family business, when you employ the eldest son, no matter how stupid he is, and give him way more responsibility than he can manage, the path rarely runs smooth.

Thirsty is available now from the Mail Bookshop

By the time Toms father came to the firm he was merely a number on an HR form, as W. and A. Gilbey had been subsumed into the colossus that is Diageo.

Toms inherited business acumen shines through when he gets his first job selling wine. He bolstered his 9k salary with 10 per cent commission, selling 700,000 worth of wine in his first year; 1.3 million in his second. In his third he was made partner. No drunken fool then.

His childlike enthusiasm displayed in his TikToks translates rather better on page than screen. There are laugh-out-loud moments, and real excitement and heart in this book.

We go to Beaujolais in the back of a Citroen CX with his dad, uncle and cousin; we go on his first date with his wife; we meet wine growers, makers and tasters that produce the wine that sits in cellars across the world. By the end we realise that what is special about wine is not that it can taste like the nectar of the gods, or evoke a bad hangover (although that is an important consideration), but that it recalls memories, transports our tastebuds, and suffuses our lunches, evenings and dinner tables with joy.

Combined with Toms extensive but easily comprehensible knowledge, we get a full-bodied book thats really got legs.
LITERARY FICTION

Anthony Cummins

The Benefactors is available now from the Mail Bookshop

THE BENEFACTORS by Wendy Erskine (Sceptre 18.99, 336pp)

Ignored by the Booker judges, this multi-voiced Belfast saga is a knockout triumph bursting with warmth and emotional wisdom. Centred on three mothers whose sons are accused of a grave crime, it supplies page-turning drama as well as narrative experiment  part of the story is told via cameos from more than 50 supporting characters.

TONYINTERRUPTOR by Nicola Barker (Granta 16.99, 224pp)

One of our most brilliantly eccentric novelists was on top form in this freewheeling farce about the online brouhaha that erupts after a heckler disrupts a jazz concert. A fizzy comedy of 21st-century manners coupled with an intimate tale of family strife.

HELM by Sarah Hall (Faber 20, 368pp)

No novel this year had more ambition than this ecological epic about a Cumbrian wind, as experienced by characters ranging from a neolithic herdswoman to a retired cop battling PTSD. The bold concept is electrified by Halls inventive language.

Stephanie Cross

The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny is available now from the Mail Bookshop

THE LONELINESS OF SONIA AND SUNNY by Kiran Desai (Hamish Hamilton 25, 688pp)

Desais third novel was deservedly Booker shortlisted (and would indeed have made a worthy winner). Moving between India and America, it follows would-be writer Sonia and journalist Sunny, but is far richer, more profound and more original than a simple love story. At nearly 700pp, if you want to get truly lost in a great book this Christmas, look no further.

THE BEST OF EVERYTHING by Kit de Waal (Tinder Press 20, 320pp)

Published in April, this books magnificent central character, auxiliary nurse Paulette, has stayed with me all year. Christmas can be a lonely time, and de Waal has immense empathy for the plight of outsiders. But ultimately this is a book about the triumph of kindness, and will light up the darkest winters night.

FLASHLIGHT by Susan Choi (Jonathan Cape 20, 464pp)

There are some novels that you remember for the plot and some for the characters, but its not often that a book delivers so brilliantly on both. Based on actual events, Chois epic Booker shortlisted novel spins out from the kidnapping of a Korean academic, following both his plight and his abandoned family. Its sweeping and intimate, breathtakingly ambitious and thrillingly executed.

Claire Allfree

Flesh is available now from the Mail Bookshop

Flesh by David Szalay (Jonathan Cape 18.99, 368pp)

This years Booker Prize winner, about a working class Hungarian who loses everything he gains, is both a searing existential parable and a riveting portrait of masculinity adrift. A novel for our times.

Perfection by Vincenzo Latronico (Fitzcarraldo 12.99, 120pp)

Two young creatives attempt to live their best lives in Berlin in this cool evisceration of impeccably curated twentysomething lifestyles, shortlisted for this years International Booker Prize. A gut punch reality check for your favourite Gen Zedder.

Under the Eye of the Big Bird by Hiromi Kawakami (Granta 9.99, 288pp)

Im still haunted by this dystopian Japanese novel about the appalling transformative potential of AI on human life months after having read it. Written in disarmingly dreamy prose, its a horribly persuasive depiction of our future extinction, made all the more nightmarish by how willingly we appear to be walking towards it.

Popular: Wendy Holden

The Secret of Secrets is available now from the Mail Bookshop

THE SECRETS OF DRAGONFLY LODGE by Rachel Hore (Simon and Schuster 16.99, 480pp)

This lovely Norfolk-set novel will calm festive nerves with its delicious mid-century feel. Journalist Stef becomes intrigued by her mothers elderly neighbour. Nancy was a brilliant scientist, so why didnt her career reach the top? Stef discovers a tale of sexism and skulduggery, not to mention Nancys smouldering grandson.

THE SECRET OF SECRETS by Dan Brown (Bantam 25, 688pp)

In a luxury hotel among the spires and cobbles of Prague, we find Brown regular Robert Langdon with brainy sidekick Katherine. Her book on the wider consciousness seems a problem for someone, but who? Several chases and cliffhangers later, we find out. This house-brick-sized tome will look impressive under the Christmas tree.

WELL, THIS IS AWKWARD by Esther Walker (Bedford Square 16.99, 336pp)

While her anarchist mums in hospital, teenager Sunny moves from their off-grid Welsh cabin to her aunt Maireads smart London flat. Shes never been to school, let alone had a burger. Its a baptism of fire for both of them, but gradually they find common ground. Touching, heartwarming and bracingly satirical about middle-class life.

CRIME: Geoffrey Wansell

The Dogwalkers' Detective Agency is available now from the Mail Bookshop

The Dogwalkers Detective Agency by Michael Hogan (Penguin Michael Joseph 9.99, 480pp)

Cosy crime takes a delightfully fresh turn with this striking debut about a graphic designer who returns to his childhood home at the seaside and finds a body while walking three dogs. One body breeds another, and the plot gently thickens. If you like Richard Osmans books, you will love this.

The Killing Stones by Ann Cleeves (Macmillan 22, 384pp)

Detective Jimmy Perez returns, but not to Shetland  to Orkney, where he has moved with his pregnant partner Willow and their son. He finds his childhood friend, Archie Stout, murdered with a Neolithic stone. Superb characters, a complex mystery and Cleevess matchless style.

The Proving Ground by Michael Connelly (Orion 22, 400pp)

Lincoln Lawyer, Mickey Haller, ace criminal defender, seems to leave crime behind to take on a civil lawsuit, that  inevitably  starts with a crime. An AI companys chatbot drives a 16-year-old boy to kill his ex-girlfriend. Ferocious storytelling, and a great hero.

DEBUTS: Sara Lawrence

Flat Earth is available now from the Mail Bookshop

Flat Earth by Anika Jade Levy (Abacus 14.99, 224pp)

This captivating coming-of-age novel is set in New York and revolves around the relationship between graduate students and best friends Avery and Frances. Frances is from a wealthy background, Avery is not. Frances drops out yet still becomes successful. Avery, meanwhile, is a mess. Clever, cool and current.

Bring the House Down by Charlotte Runcie (The Borough Press 16.99, 320pp)

When journalist Sophies theatre critic colleague Alex becomes embroiled in an extraordinary scandal, she has a ringside seat. Alex is known for his brutal reviews, but when he sleeps with a woman before his particularly eviscerating takedown of her show is published, he cannot foresee the hell that is about to be unleashed. Unputdownable.

The Compound by Aisling Rawle (Borough Press 16.99, 352pp)

In a vaguely dystopian near-future on the set of a reality TV dating show similar to Love Island, Lily is competing to stay in the compound. References to wars, climate catastrophes and mass mask-wearing on the outside contribute to the increasing sense of menace on the inside. Brilliant on performance and consumerism.

HISTORICAL: Eithne Farry

The Rush is available now from the Mail Bookshop

The Rush by Beth Lewis (Viper 18.99, 400pp)

Canada, 1898, and the Yukon is in the grip of gold fever, making men desperate and dangerous. Lewis pitches three spirited women, pell-mell, into this lawless world, and sets about testing their mettle with murder, mayhem and endless mud. Its a cracking read, a rip-roaring adventure peopled with engaging, vividly drawn characters and vibrant with emotional drama and gutsy plotlines.

The Artist by Lucy Steeds (John Murray 16.99, 304pp)

Honeyed heat and slow-burn attraction make for a smouldering atmosphere in Steeds intense, beautifully realised debut as art, love and autonomy play their parts in the lives of writer Joseph, aspiring artist Ettie and her uncle, the reclusive painter Tata, in the Provence of 1920. Heartbreakingly beautiful, its a blaze of a book  poetic, passionate and quietly powerful.

The Pretender by Jo Harkin (Bloomsbury 18.99, 464pp)

Theres much fun to be had in Harkins riotous, mischievous take on a thorny patch in English history as the warring factions of Lancaster and York transform endearingly bamboozled farmers boy Lambert Simnel into Edward Plantagenet, the future king, once Henry VII is disposed by their underhand, political machinations. Funny and furiously imaginative, this is a brilliant debut.

CONTEMPORARY: Sara Lawrence

Heart the Lover is available now from the Mail Bookshop

Heart the Lover by Lily King (Canongate 18.99, 256pp)

The narrator of this beautifully written, emotionally intelligent story about love is studying creative writing at an American university when she meets star students and best friends Sam and Yash. Years later, our female lead is a successful writer, married with children, when a surprise visit throws her straight back into emotional chaos. Fabulous.

Picture Imperfect by Jacqueline Wilson (Bantam 22, 352pp)

This adult sequel to Wilsons bestselling 1999 childrens book The Illustrated Mum is extremely nostalgic. Marigold, the illustrated mum of the title, suffers from bipolar disorder.

Narrated by Dolphin, her youngest daughter, its a moving account of children dealing with maternal mental health issues. Now 33, Dolphin is still trapped by Marigolds needs.

Bitter Sweet by Hattie Williams (Orion 16.99, 400pp)

Charlie is 23 and works as a junior assistant at a leading publisher. Although this is the job of her dreams, Charlies mother died when she was 16 and her self-esteem has been shaky ever since.

When Charlie begins an affair with her favourite author she quickly becomes isolated. Compelling and great on power and control.

PSYCHOS: Christena Appleyard

The Cut is available now from the Mail Bookshop

The Cut by Richard Armitage (Faber & Faber 18.99, 336pp)

Already successful, actor Armitage (The Hobbit) is now making his name as an accomplished writer. The Cut tells the story of a cool architect who returns to his roots, a village where he is confronted with a mass of overpowering, disturbing memories.

A murdered school friend is at the centre of this powerfully moving book that tackles childhood bullying and its toxic adult legacy.

Our Beautiful Mess by Adele Parks (Harper Collins 16.95, 448pp)

Theres no such thing as a disappointing Parks thriller. Theyre always good for beginners and seasoned fans.

A mother is blindsided by her daughter coming home with her new boyfriend. Parks cleverly reveals the mothers back story and the roots of the boyfriends connection to her panic. Its a disturbing and sometimes difficult read with a terrific ending.

The Trials of Lila Dalton by L. J. Shepherd (Pushkin Press 16.99, 352pp)

A barrister suffering from amnesia finds herself standing in a courtroom with a man accused of mass murder. She has no idea why she is there. This is an intriguing start to a truly original storyline set against a dystopian backdrop and a complex plot.

Excellent writing and truly relatable characters.
Its 3am and I am sitting bolt upright in bed, thoughts racing. Waves of fear wash over me and I can hear my heart thumping in my chest.

The reason? My financial future looks grim and Ive got no idea how Im ever going to support myself in my later years.

Like most of the country after Rachel Reeves Budget raid on pensions, Im feeling the pressure.

But if youre stressed about having to cut down on holidays and meals out to safeguard your retirement, spare a thought for the 45 per cent of working-age adults, like me, not paying into a pension. In fact, Ive never paid into a pension.

Single, 64, and a freelance writer, my crystal ball is foretelling a miserable sort of penury, thanks to my total failure to make any provision for my old age.

In fact, it was only when more well-off friends began to complain about their retirement prospects that I even realised the mess I was in. To be frank, Ive been totally clueless.

Having been freelance most of my life, Im unsure if Ill even qualify for the full state pension. You need 35 years of paying National Insurance to get the full amount  currently 230.25 per week.

But, like many women with precarious careers, Im unsure Ill make the grade. It would have been the same if Id left work to have kids  I never did have any  but at least then Id have people to support me.

Kate Mulvey has never paid into a pension. As she has worked freelance, she is unsure she will even qualify for the full state pension due to National Insurance rules

Im even jealous of the so-called Waspi women campaigning about the changes to womens state pension age. At least many of them will get the full whack when the time comes.

Youre probably wondering how I can have reached the age of 64 without having ever paid into a pension, and how I can still be so naive about my finances that Ive done little to rectify the situation.

Perversely, its been such a source of anxiety I subconsciously ignored the reality not only of getting older, but of the need to have clear goals and plans for the future.

Growing up in the 1970s in an artistic family, there wasnt much money about, so there was no need to think about planning what to do with it, though both my parents had private pensions by their 40s. My father was constantly telling me to put a bit by, but silly me thought she knew better.

My 20s were a haze of parties and expensive clothes. I was working as a PR account executive, but the company never enrolled me into a pension scheme and I never thought to ask. Now, I wish my teachers had taught me about pensions and Isas rather than Pythagoras theorem.

It was only when I started working as a feature writer in my 30s that I heard colleagues discussing pensions.

But I was a freelancer, and the onus was on me to set up a private pension. It was so many miles down the list of priorities that it simply disappeared. In that, it seems, Im not alone; 20 per cent of women have no private pension provision.

Saving for the future made sense for my friends, whod started settling down with husbands and children. But, with no family to support, why did I need to think about saving for later on? It would surely bring me more enjoyment to have the extra cash now.

Kate has even gone teetotal to pinch the pennies, saving money by drinking fizzy water instead of wine

I remember drumming my fingers on the table in boredom at dinner parties as Smug Marrieds weighed up the benefits of various schemes. How tedious, I thought, as I sloped off to some nightclub.

I look back on that woman and want to shake her. I secured various book deals over the years, and could have used the sizeable advances to top up my pension pot, or even put a deposit on a house. When the opportunity arose in 1996 to buy a flat, I chose not to, spending the money on clothes instead.

Ever the optimist, I always assumed things would just turn out OK. Or, to be specific, I always believed Id get married, and hed give me security. Fat chance.

I used to think my unconventional life was better; forward planning felt oppressive and scary. But I cant tell you how many times I have come home to a cold house and an empty fridge and felt dejected and frightened.

When I hit my 50s and realised that male-shaped pot at the end of the rainbow wasnt going to appear, I started to seriously worry about my finances, but was unsure how to mitigate the problem. Today, I feel a kind of hopelessness that Ive left everything too late.

My earnings tide me over, but I rarely have enough left to stash anything for a rainy day, let alone for retirement.

Im lucky to have had a flat left to me by my parents  which I live in, paying the small mortgage and service charge  otherwise Id definitely be living in a flatshare.

Without a partner to shoulder the burden, Im covering everything with my earnings, which are unpredictable.

Though Im  finally  trying to improve my financial situation, its a far cry from friends who, while worrying about their finances, dont realise how lucky they are. They talk about stocks, shares and Isas and I feel a shiver of inadequacy.

I know its my fault. As I look at their comfortable lives it just emphasises that Ive thrown everything away for a life of momentary pleasures. The stress has seen me develop chronic migraines and anxiety.

Theres a stigma about being old and poor. Youre meant to have set yourself up for a comfortable old age, and people get uncomfortable when you moan about not being able to pay the bills. It all has a whiff of Eau de Failure about it.

It takes its toll on friendships, too. Its painful when the people you considered good friends shun you because your lifestyle has slipped behind.

I met up with one friend recently for coffee. She wanted to talk about her husbands new job and selling their enormous home in Kensington, while I wanted to moan about how eggs and pesto were bankrupting me. I suppose theres a slight comfort in knowing that a fifth of women are also currently in a similar pension-less situation. But that comfort wont pay my bills.

So, what does the future hold?

Im now saving money in whatever way I can. Ive started auditing my finances and looking at pension plans. Ive gone teetotal and am saving thousands by drinking fizzy water instead of wine. And I love writing as much as ever, so working into my dotage isnt too bleak a prospect, I suppose.

While I massively regret not giving myself a pension, I dont regret the fun Ive had. I just never realised I would be paying such a high price for it.

Tap water, anyone?

What to do if you're in your 60s with no private pension

Tanya Jefferies, Pensions and Investments Editor, says:

Its not too late  open a self-invested personal pension (Sipp) and contribute what you can afford each month. These can be opened in addition to a work pension, and are also suitable for the self-employed. If youre employed you should be automatically enrolled into a pension, and if you opted out you can easily still re-join. The money should grow in a tax-efficient way and provide a useful lump sum or an income to draw on when youre older.

Check your state pension and if you havent paid the required amount of National Insurance to earn enough qualifying years you can buy annual top-ups to fill up any gaps over the past six years. Its worth scraping the money together. It costs roughly 900 per one-year top-up  less for a part year. Once you start getting your state pension youll earn what you paid back quickly  usually within three-and-a-half years  so as long as you live to 70, youll make your money back. After that, its all profit! Check your NI contributions here: gov.uk/check-state-pension
At 37, I lost my virginity. For the second time. As I slipped between the sheets with my new partner Mark, I said with a laugh, Ive never done this before.

I meant I had never been so exposed, so real, so... sober. Technically, I had lost my virginity aged 17 after a drunken night with a work colleague. But I then spent almost 20 years having sex under the influence, often remembering little about the act itself and doing things I would later regret, including cheating on partners.

There had been many occasions when I woke up in a strange bed with no memory of how I got there. Unsurprisingly, I had rarely climaxed during sex. I certainly knew nothing of the electrifying fulfilment and connection that proper intimacy  without alcohol  can bring.

Thats why I think of that night with Mark as the first time I had  proper, meaningful  sex. Id been sober for 18 months and it was the first time I was with a man without drinking.

It was revelatory, like stepping into the light after a lifetime in the dark. I experienced orgasms more intense than Id ever felt.

I was no longer passive; I didnt let sex just happen to me. I was in complete control and had never felt sexier.

You dont need to be an alcoholic like me to never have experienced sex sober. So many women say they need a bit of liquid courage to sleep with a new partner; some say they cant imagine even sharing a kiss without a glass of wine.

Research shows that as many as 64 per cent of people in the UK have had sex while intoxicated, but just 20 per cent always enjoy it.

At 37, Catherine Renton had sex sober for the first time

Alcohol is deeply embedded in modern dating culture. Like many women, I used to think I had to be tipsy to feel sexy. But Ive discovered theres nothing more sensual than being in the moment.

Ive certainly come a long way from that drunken first encounter with a work colleague, after a night out that saw me down a bottle of wine, despite not being old enough to drink.

He kept telling me I was beautiful, and I was so drunk that I believed him. We went back to his place. The sex was over quickly and, when I began to sober up, I hurriedly put my clothes back on.

We never had sex again; I felt embarrassed that Id exposed myself (in every way) to him, and thought hed only had sex with me because he was drunk.

Studying journalism at university in my early 20s, I hit the bottle hard. I often missed lectures because of hangovers and skipped afternoon tutorials to go out drinking again. I would spend 80 a week on socialising rather than food and existed on snacks and sandwiches.

When I left college in 2006 and entered full-time work, I had a group of party pals who I could always rely on for a good night out.

I regularly drank to the point of blackout. The next day, Id wake with an aching head, mysterious bruises and sometimes with a mystery man in my bed.

Sober, I could barely make eye contact with a guy; drunk, I would flirt outrageously with anyone who crossed my path, including people I knew were already taken. I even lost a friendship over my flirting after I became overly affectionate with a friends partner and she accused me of trying to steal him.

Catherine hated the person she became when she was drunk: argumentative, brash and attention-seeking

With cripplingly low self-esteem, I thrived on male attention when I was drunk and often had no intention of following through on my flirting.

My first date with my future husband was in a bar. This led to me staying at his house after I missed my last train home. We had sex that night but as soon as it was over I got dressed again, even though I was staying the night.

He laughed as I put my clothes back on, saying, Its too late, Ive already seen you naked! But I was too scared for him to see me without clothes when wed both sobered up. We dated for four weeks before I let him see me naked when I was sober and, although he couldnt have been more complimentary, I struggled to believe him.

We married when I was 22 and still a student; he was 29 and a journalist. We were both big social drinkers. For the first three months of our marriage, we partied and had lots of drunken sex.

Gradually my husbands drinking calmed down, but Id still go out on a big nights with my student friends, returning home a stumbling, slurring wreck.

It soon became clear we were in very different places. He wanted children and I wasnt sure I would ever be ready. I also suffered from anxiety and depression, a long-term consequence of bullying in my teens.

We went from lovers and best friends to strangers sleeping in separate beds. He would much rather stay at home with a box set, whereas Id rather be out on the town.

We split when I was 25 and I moved back in with my parents. Humiliated, I carried on drinking and had more drunken hook-ups that I barely remember.

In her early 30s, Catherine had a drunken hook-up with a married colleague that developed into a full-blown affair

I did things drunk I knew I wouldnt have done sober. At 26, after a boozy Christmas party, I cheated on a new boyfriend with a friend, who was also in a relationship. Our respective partners never found out and Im ashamed to say getting away with it made me feel like my actions had no consequences.

Then, at 31, I lost my mum to cancer and my drinking escalated. Id often grab a bottle of wine on the way home from work to help lull me into a fitful sleep.

The drunken sexual exploits continued, too. In my early 30s, I had a drunken hook-up with a married colleague that developed into a full-blown affair. He left his wife for me  something I never asked him to do  and for the first time I realised that my self-destructive patterns were affecting more than just me.

I hated the person I became when I was drunk  argumentative, brash and attention-seeking  but I didnt love myself enough to stop.

It wasnt until I turned 35 that things changed after I made an appointment with my GP. I hadnt slept properly in months and had panic attacks so severe I sometimes struggled to leave the house. He asked me if I had any plans to end my life and I told him: No, but I am disappointed when I wake up every morning.

He suggested I quit alcohol for a month to see if my mental health improved. It was January 2017 and, thankfully, with everyone on the Dry January bandwagon, it was an easy month to stay sober.

Within a fortnight, my anxiety started to ease and my sleep was undisturbed for the first time in years. I gave up dating around the same time, although my love life had been fairly unsuccessful since my divorce. My three-year marriage was my longest relationship; my low self-esteem made it difficult to form deep connections. My reckless behaviour when I drank didnt help.

Thankfully a month of sobriety turned into two, then six. My anxiety was almost non-existent.

Initially, I thought about sobriety in terms of what Id never do again. In particular, I wondered if Id ever again be able to date, much less have sex sober. The idea seemed impossible  without drink I was still painfully shy.

I had started going to Alcoholics Anonymous, which I attended weekly for the first three months of sobriety, and was advised not to start a new relationship in the first year. You can end up replacing one addiction (alcohol) with another, like love.

Eight months into my sobriety, I went to a party and met a very cute guy. We began flirting and everything was going well until he went to the bar to get us a drink. I told him I was sober and he seemed almost offended when I refused to accept an alcoholic drink. He said, I want to take you home, wouldnt it be better if we were both a bit loosened up?

Stunned, I told him that I wouldnt be coerced into drinking just so I could have sex and walked away. This was progress. I used to match guys drink-for-drink, always ending up drunker, so the balance of power would always be tipped in their favour. Now, I was in control.

I was already in therapy and began speaking more about my past sexual exploits. I told my therapist that Id faked almost every orgasm Id had with a partner and we worked out why Id been afraid to have sex sober.

I may have had more than 30 sexual partners by then, but I didnt know what I liked in bed; I had always gone along with what my partner wanted.

My therapist suggested getting to know my own erogenous zones before I considered partnered sober sex. I began exploring my body in front of a full-length mirror and found tender spots I didnt know existed; stroking the gentle curve under my belly set my senses on fire and grazing my inner thighs with my fingers gave me goosebumps.

I found out I needed very little encouragement to orgasm, despite having struggled to do this with partners for many years.

When I returned to dating apps, I was upfront about being sober, and while that deterred some potential suitors, most were understanding.

I had been sober for a year and a half when I met Mark. After a couple of dates, we decided to have sex  it was the first time Id been fully present. Thats why it felt like losing my virginity again.

Knowing my own body far better, I felt more comfortable with Mark than with previous partners. I knew exactly what I needed and wasnt afraid to ask.

We dated for a few weeks but realised wed be better off as friends. I will always be grateful to him for being so kind and gentle with me as I re-entered the dating pool.

Sober me was more deliberate and selective with partners. As a drinker, I tended to fall for narcissists who would lap up my fawning attention. Now I realised that the kind, gentle men I would previously have dismissed as boring were just what I needed.

I found myself gravitating toward men who didnt drink either. Wed share stories from our drinking days and instead of trying to laugh off some of the more worrisome behaviour, like blackouts, we acknowledged that we were lucky to have emerged relatively unscathed.

Before, I had always been looking for the ego boost of being attractive enough to sleep with when I went home with a man, rather than a genuine connection. I thought all I was good for was a quick fumble before staggering home in the early hours. Now I know I deserve so much more.

Instead of bars, my dates now take place in coffee shops or on walks and I no longer look to have sex on the first date. I used to depend on booze to power through boring dates, but now I am happy to cut my losses and leave if I dont feel a connection.

Nerves can still affect me, but I accept that really fulfilling connections can be a slow burn, rather than instant fireworks.

Now 43, Im more than happy to tell potential partners what makes me feel good. Its liberating, I think, for both of us. Hes not guessing and Im not faking.

The past eight years of sobriety have taught me much about forgiveness, particularly forgiving myself. I beat myself up for a long time for actions often out of my control. No one forced me to drink excessively, but plenty of people were willing to take advantage when I wasnt capable of making sensible decisions.

These days I date on and off. I am after quality, not quantity. If someone had told the younger me how good sex could be without drinking, I wouldnt have believed them. Its so good, in fact, its one of the main reasons I wish Id quit boozing years ago.
A supermarket staple is about to be in extremely short supply - or, if available, a lot more expensive.

Capsicums are the latest fresh produce item to have their supply impacted by severe weather events in 2025.

At Coles, signs have already begun to appear next to the capsicum shelves, notifying shoppers of current forecast shortages.

Daily Mail spotted a sign in one Sydney store that read: 'Due to extreme weather in the growing regions, there may be limited availability of yellow and green capsicums.

We are working closely with our growers to improve supply as quickly as possible,' the notice continued. 'We apologise for any inconvenience caused.'

Currently at Coles, green capsicums are priced at $8.90 per kilo, red capsicums are $10.90 per kilo and, yellow capsicums are $12.90 per kilo.

Meanwhile, Woolworths' online shopping site lists red capsicums as 'out of stock'.

For green capsicums, the website also states they're available to buy 'in store only' - not through online shopping.

Daily Mail observed a Customer Notice sign at a Coles store in Sydney indicating that capsicums were currently in short supply

This Customer Notice has been spied at several supermarkets as capsicum supply starts to dwindle. It explains that the issue stems from recent 'extreme weather in the growing regions'

At Woolworths, the online shopping website for red capsicum confirms that it is currently 'out of stock'

At grocery chain store Harris Farm, a Sydney store still currently has plenty of capsicum supply, but prices are much higher than usual. The green variety is $12.99 per kilo, yellow is $15.99 per kilo, and red are the most expensive at $17.99 per kilo.

Daily Mail spoke to Anthony Parisi of wholesale produce supplier Parisi Australia, who explained why capsicum stocks are low and prices are high.

The head of relations said the capsicum shortage is a result of recent severe weather in Queensland's Bundaberg region.

He explained: 'Around 90 per cent of Australia's capsicum supply at this time of year would normally come from this region - it's their peak season.

'But this year's crops were completely ruined by heavy rain and hail damage.

'When that happens, all the fruit is damaged and starts to rot because of the water,' he continued. 'It then can't be sold, meaning there's no product arriving at market. And that's what's caused the shortage.'

Anthony noted that limited supply means prices are rapidly rising wherever capsicum is still available.

He predicts supply will stay low for the next three to four weeks, until capsicums from South Australia come onto the market.

At chain greengrocer Harris Farm, a Sydney store still currently has a plentiful capsicum supply, but prices are higher than usual

Anthony Parisi from wholesale fruit and veg supplier Parisi Australia explained why capsicum stocks are low and prices are high in supermarkets - resulting from a recent weather event in Queensland's Bundaberg region

'We'll be relying on produce from South Australia for the next supply of capsicum - but there will only be very, very little available from them at the start of their season,' Anthony said. 'So that is why we're falling short at the moment.'

Although the Coles notice referred only to green and yellow capsicums, Anthony said there's reduced available across all colours.

Red, yellow and green capsicums are generally not different types of capsicums, but rather the same fruit at different stages of maturity and ripeness. As a capsicum matures, it turns from green to yellow, then orange, and finally to red. The sweetness and nutritional value increases with each stage.

Anthony noted that other less mainstream produce like bullhorn peppers and a range of chillies, including long red chilli and bird's eye chillies, had also been impacted in supply as a result of the recent Queensland weather event.

'Where they are available, prices have gone ballistic,' Anthony noted. 'There'll be very, very little of those coming through until the New South Wales season starts, which is usually late January to early February.'

Anthony predicts that it could be a month before capsicum supply improves and prices drop, which will occur when South Australian regions become the core source for the country's capsicum supply.

'With any produce item, it's a matter of supply and demand,' he explained.

'When supply is great, prices are very low,' he said. 'We only hit those very high prices for fruit or vegetables when it's out of season, when low volumes are being imported, or after a catastrophic weather event - like what happened in Queensland.

Anthony Parisi predicts that capsicum supply will resume as normal in three to four weeks - at which point the prices should also drop

'You might remember a few years ago when iceberg lettuces were over $10 per head - that happened after floods in the Hawkesbury region destroyed almost all the crops.'

There have been a number of fruit and vegetable supply issues for Aussies in 2025, resulting from a myriad of weather events.

Earlier this year, shoppers struggled to locate popular shopping staples like sweet potatoes and strawberries.

Other fruit and vegetables to have recently faced supply issues due to adverse weather conditions have included blueberries, spring onions, and broccoli.
Disney has been brutally mocked online after sharing what appeared to be an AI-generated photo of Mickey Mouse with a rather noticeable mistake.

Last month, popular YouTube star Garrett 'The Purple Hoser' Hilbert embarked on a challenge to visit every Disney park in 75 hours and documented it all on his channel, called Dude Perfect.

The official Disney Parks YouTube account shared his video afterward - but many people were quick to notice something odd about the thumbnail.

It showed Hilbert sitting next to Mickey Mouse on a roller coaster, however, the beloved character sported bizarre, tiny and sharp teeth.

Since Mickey Mouse doesn't usually have teeth, it left many convinced that the thumbnail image had been created using AI.

It has since been changed to remove the teeth from the snap.

But that didn't stop social media users and fans around the world from sharing their outrage over Disney promoting a photo that seemed to be created by AI, especially since the company had previously sued an AI company for copyright infringement over the use of its characters.

'The weird toothy AI Mickey thumbnail = disturbing and gross. Nightmare-inducing,' one person commented under Disney's post.

'The thumbnail itself makes me not want to click on this video. Pass,' scathed another.

Disney has been brutally mocked online after sharing what appeared to be an AI-generated photo of Mickey Mouse while promoting a video from Dude Perfect's YouTube channel

The thumbnail showed Garrett 'The Purple Hoser' Hilbert sitting next to Mickey Mouse on a roller coaster, however, the beloved character sported bizarre, tiny and sharp teeth

'Every time I think this account can't get any worse, you somehow dig deeper. Low quality content and AI slop, just perfect,' someone else added.

'Disappointed - Disney should be ashamed of reposting a thumbnail that contains AI Mickey,' read a fourth comment.

'You'd think this company would have guidelines or standards for this stuff but I guess not.'

'Not a chance I'm clicking on this AI monstrosity. Do better. A lot better,' said a fifth.

'Glad to see Disney is supporting AI of its characters,' a different person sarcastically penned.

The Daily Mail has reached out to Disney for comment.

Variety reported back in June that both Disney and NBCUniversal had filed a federal lawsuit against Midjourney, a 'generative AI start-up.'

The companies claimed Midjourney 'displays hundreds, if not thousands, of images generated by its Image Service at the request of its subscribers that infringe Plaintiffs' Copyrighted Works.'

Since Mickey Mouse doesn't usually have teeth, it left many convinced that the thumbnail image had been created using AI (stock image)

Hilbert embarked on a challenge to visit every Disney park in 75 hours and documented it all on his channel, called Dude Perfect, which Disney reshared

Even so, Disney has slowly been implementing AI into both its parks and streaming service.

Earlier this month, a Disney animator unleashed a furious tirade against the company and even encouraged people to boycott its streaming service after CEO Bob Iger tease that AI-generated content was in the works.

'AI is going to give us the ability to provide users of Disney+ with a much more engaged experience,' Iger said during the Earnings Results Webcast, per the Hollywood Reporter.

'[This includes] the ability for them to create user-generated content, the ability for them to create user-generated content and to consume user-generated content - mostly short-form - from others.'

Dana Terrace, who created the Disney Channel animated series The Owl House, brutally slammed the announcement afterwards.

She told fans not only to unsubscribe from Disney+ but also to watch her own show illegally.

'Unsubscribe from Disney+. Pirate Owl House. I don't care. F**k gen AI,' she wrote in a furious X (formerly Twitter) post.

To 'pirate' a film or show means to illegally copy, distribute or share it without the copyright holder's permission.

It has since been changed to remove the teeth from the snap (above), but that didn't stop social media users and Disney fans across the globe from sharing their outrage over it

Mickey is seen in 2007 at the High School Musical 2 premiere, showcasing his toothless smile

'"If you pay us we'll let you make your own content slop! That we will own!" You can draw and write and post your own s**t for free,' she added in another post. 'Bob Iger and his ilk are f**king ghouls.'

Disney also recently teased a brand new AI-powered Olaf robot that will walk and talk just like the Frozen character coming to Disneyland Paris early next year.

The high-tech device can move around through a combination of remote control and AI programmed to adapt to its surroundings.

Kyle Laughlin, product and technology leader at Disney, called it 'one of the most expressive and true-to-life characters built.'

'From the way he moves to the way he looks, every gesture and detail is crafted to reflect the Olaf audiences have seen in the film,' he said.

To make the snowman's movements as authentic as possible, engineers relied on a type of AI called reinforcement learning.

Disney recently teased a brand new AI-powered Olaf robot that will walk and talk just like the Frozen character coming to Disneyland Paris early next year

The hi-tech device can move around through a combination of remote operation and AI that's programmed to adapt to surroundings

This is where a robot learns to make intelligent decisions through trial and error by interacting with its environment.

The technology allows Olaf the robot to practice thousands of motions inside a computer simulation until his real-life movements look natural.

'It takes humans years to perfect our motor skills for walking, and it takes additional years of practice to perform acrobatic motions that only a few of us can master,' Laughlin said.

'Deep reinforcement learning is a technology that helps robots acquire such skills in a shorter amount of time.

'To make this technology scale well, we need fast and parallel simulation.'
A plastic surgeon weighed in on what work the star may have undergone

The reality star, 66, recently showed off her age-defying figure - and face

Kathy Hilton has not only been making headlines for her role on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills - but also for her extremely youthful looks.

Although she's always been in the spotlight, the star, now 66, has made an even bigger splash lately by joining her sister, Kyle Richards, as a 'friend of' on the Bravo reality show in 2021.

Not to mention, Hilton was also a big part of her daughter Paris Hilton's Peacock show, Paris in Love.

This week, the star posted a picture to Instagram of herself and her husband, Rick Hilton, in honor of their 46th wedding anniversary.

The blonde socialite turned heads in a skimpy black lace minidress showing off her age-defying figure - and face.

In the snap, Hilton looked half her age as she posed next to Rick, who was dressed in an all-white suit and a navy blue zip-up.

Fans were captivated by her youthful visage, gushing over how good Hilton looked.

'Va-va-voom! Okay Kathy, you look amazing! Happy anniversary!' one person wrote.

Fans went wild after seeing a snap Kathy Hilton with her husband, Rick Hilton, celebrating their 46th wedding anniversary, astounded by her youthful look

'Kathy!!! You look so so sooo HOTTT,' agreed a second.

Someone else wrote: 'You both look incredible and you're just as amazing on the inside too! God bless you both. Happy Anniversary.'

Hilton has never publicly confirmed or denied any plastic surgery rumors, but now, a plastic surgeon has revealed exclusively to Daily Mail whether they believe that the star has been under the knife or not.

Oregon-based plastic surgeon Dr Sean McNally, who has never treated Hilton directly, suggested that the star has indeed undergone cosmetic surgery.

'The two things that stand out the most for me are how open her eyes look which is likely due to an upper blepharoplasty and the angle of her brows and eyes have changed,' the expert exclusively told the Daily Mail after looking at pictures of Hilton.

'They're both more canted up laterally which is likely secondary to a temporal brow lift.'

He continued that he suspects she has also had cosmetic injections, claiming: 'Her lips are definitely done and I suspect that she has also been getting filler to her midface to help maintain her natural fullness in this area.'

Discussing her seeming absence of age spots, Dr McNally shared: 'This is likely due to a combination of a solid skin care routine and regular maintenance with IPL and/or lasers.'

Oregon-based plastic surgeon Dr Sean McNally, who has never treated Hilton directly, suggested that the star has indeed undergone plastic surgery. She is pictured here in 1996 with her daughter Paris and husband Rick

Hilton in 1999 at The Royal Oak Foundation Benefit Gala in New York (left) and at Kris Jenner's 70th birthday earlier in November this year (right)

Hilton looking youthful and glowing with her husband Rick in 2001

Kathy Hilton with her daughter Nikki in 2012

Hilton pictured at a gala in 2022 sporting a very youthful glow

Dr McNally, who has never treated Hilton (pictured in 2024), suggested she may gave had cosmetic injections, claiming: 'Her lips are definitely done and I suspect that she has also been getting filler to her midface to help maintain her natural fullness in this area'

The Daily Mail has reached out for comment.

Hilton has previously opened up about her skincare routine, which involves at-home laser treatments, dry brushing, and collagen drinks.

The reality star told US Weekly she uses an at-home laser treatment called The Lyma Laser.

'It's amazing, I really love it,' she told the publication, adding she loves trying out new advances in skincare technology.

'Theres so many things out there right now that are available to us. Why not try it? Ive always been into skincare,' she said.

In addition to the laser treatments, the actress also likes to dry brush every day to detoxify the skin, and drink a collagen drink to increase hydration and the elasticity in her skin.

Last year, Hilton and her daughter Nikki, 40, paired with British skincare brand No.7 - and shared how they utilize the products to feel their absolute best.

Hilton shared how the brand has helped keep her skin fresh - and one of her beauty tips involved a bit of rose water.

'To give you a little background, my mother is a skincare junkie and when she would visit London, she would come back with No7 because they've been around for almost 90 years, so I've always loved it,' The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star also told Hello.
A Native American actress who starred in 'The Last of Us' says she was detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents who called her tribal ID 'fake'.

Elaine Miles, best known for her roles in 90s CBS dramedy 'Northern Exposure' and the movie 'Smoke Signals', described the alleged experience in a post to Facebook.

It happened in Pendleton, Oregon, on November 19, Miles said.

The 65-year-old recalled how four men with masks and ICE-labeled gear confronted her on-foot as she waited for a bus with plans to head to a nearby Target.

The men, emerging from two unmarked black SUVs, demanded her ID, she said.

Once she obliged, the agents told her the identification 'looked fake,' Miles wrote on the Lakota People's Law Project's official Facebook group.

'Told them call that number & it will be The Enrollment Office of my tribe. They kept saying "anyone can make those, it's fake" I was so mad!' she fumed.

Miles claimed she threatened to call the tribe for the agents. They responded by threating to take her phone, she said.

Elaine Miles - who starred as Marlon's wife Florence in 'The Last of Us' - claimed she was detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents who called her tribal ID 'fake' in Southeastern Washington last week

The 65-year-old described the alleged experience in a post to Facebook. She said it happened November 19 at a bus stop in Pendleton, Oregon

The actress cursed the agents and labeled them 'racist bigots.'

She recalled telling one of the men 'you're a disgrace to your people' because he was Mexican.

A Thursday report from The Seattle Times offered more details about the incident, including that Mile's identification was a federally recognized card registered with the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation in Oregon.

A fifth agent reportedly pulled up during the incident.

At that point, the other agents allegedly left Miles alone.

Miles said that throughout the process, the agents refused to provide their names or badge numbers.

Her post to Facebook - apart from a reshare from the California Lakota nonprofit - has since been made unavailable.

'They suppose to be taking the "rapist, felon, robbers, drug n human traffickers" not women waiting at bus stop Watch your back in the Eastside of the Emerald City,' Miles told members.

Miles, who starred on the CBS sitcom 'Northern Exposure', cursed the agents and labeled them 'racist bigots'

Miles said that throughout the process, the agents refused to provide their names or badge numbers

Miles, who also starred in the 2009 TV movie Wyvern, told the Times that shes now afraid to leave her house.

Her detainment happened on the same day ICE arrested multiple people at Redmonds Bear Creek Village shopping center, which is close to the bus stop where she says she was stopped.

The Daily Mail has reached out to ICE for comment.

Miles told the Times that her son and uncle were both detained by ICE agents who also at first did not accept their tribal IDs, before being let go.
Donald Trump was allegedly taped making a claim about the 2024 assassination attempt on his life that, if true, 'would shatter our understanding of recent history,' a writer has suggested.

Journalist Ryan Lizza, ex-boyfriend of former New York Magazine reporter Olivia Nuzzi, has claimed she used a sketch artist to secretly surveil Trump at his home in Mar-a-Lago.

Nuzzi is said to have successfully convinced the publication to commission a portrait of Trump and artist Isabelle Brourman went to his Florida residence under those pretenses in the summer of 2024, Lizza claimed.

While there, Brourman is said to have overheard Trump talk about the recent assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania - however, the details of what he allegedly said are still unknown.

Florida is a two-party consent state, meaning that it is illegal to record a conversation without the consent of both people involved.

Lizza's claim came in part three of an eight-part series published on Substack on Wednesday about his relationship with Nuzzi, meaning readers may learn what Trump allegedly said in part four.

Feds recently revealed the young man who attempted to assassinate Trump, 20-year-old Thomas Crooks, had a long record of espousing political violence. They also said he acted alone.

At the time of the alleged recording, in the summer 2024, the now-President was taking campaign meetings with the likes of Matt Gaetz and Susie Wiles.

'Trump had taken a liking to Izzy when she worked as a sketch artist during his Manhattan trial, and Olivia figured he would enjoy having her around him. She was right,' Lizza, 51, wrote of his ex's alleged reasoning in sending in Brourman.

Ryan Lizza, the ex-boyfriend of former New York Magazine reporter Olivia Nuzzi (seen together in April 2023) has claimed she used a sketch artist to secretly surveil Donald Trump

Lizza wrote Trump was heard saying something about the attempt on his life in Butler in July 2024 'would shatter our understanding of recent history'

He claimed Nuzzi, 32, was in the midst of collecting material that would 'help make [Robert F Kennedy Jr] the next president.'

Lizza, a former Politico reporter, billed his ex as a sort of undercover 'political operative' for the then-candidate during a fling that began the year before.

The allegations are only the latest from Lizza, who is in the midst of a sprawling, scathing Substack series after calling off his engagement to Nuzzi in September 2024.

At the time, he claimed an affair between Nuzzi and RFK Jr, 71, was the reason.

After the news broke, Nuzzi was put on leave by New York Magazine. She was fully ousted in October 2024. She is Vanity Fair's new west coast editor and is on the verge of publishing a book about the recent scandal, called American Canto.

In part one of his series, Lizza claimed Nuzzi had not only cheated on him with Kennedy but with former Republican Representative Mark Sanford.

The artist, Isabelle Brourman (pictured in 2018), was armed with a recording device secretly hidden in her bag, the former Politico reporter wrote on Substack Wednesday

Feds recently revealed the man who attempted to assassinate Trump, 20-year-old Thomas Crooks, had a long record of espousing political violence. They also said he acted alone

In the follow-up, Lizza detailed erotic poetry allegedly sent to his then-girlfriend by RFK Jr.

'Yr open mouth awaiting my harvest, the Health Secretary is alleged to have said at the time.

In the most recent installment, Lizza wrote how, through a practice often referred to as 'catch-and-kill', Nuzzi allegedly snapped up damaging storylines that would have damaged RFK Jr's campaign.

'What you have been reading about here is not really a scandal about sex, but a scandal about journalistic ethics,' wrote Lizza.

The strategy helped negotiate the terms of RFK Jr's eventual endorsement of Trump and positioned him for a spot in his Cabinet, he claimed.

RFK Jr called off his campaign in August 2024, and, in her recent memoir, Nuzzi admitted to being attracted to Kennedy around this time. She has maintained that it was non-physical and did not influence her reporting.

Kennedy, meanwhile, has denied the affair. He remains married to 60-year-old Cheryl Hines.

As the claims continue to mount, Nuzzi's Vanity Fair job could be in jeopardy.

LIzza, formerly a journalist for Politico, left readers guessing at what was allegedly said

'What you have been reading about here is not really a scandal about sex, but a scandal about journalistic ethics,' wrote Lizza of Nuzzi, who he said sought to get RFK Jr elected over Trump following a fling in 2023

The revelations about Nuzzi's alleged affair with Sanford could see her ousted from her new role at Vanity Fair, with bosses there investigating.

A rep who spoke with The New York Times told the paper: 'We were taken by surprise, and we are looking at all the facts.'

The Daily Mail has contacted Brourman and Nuzzi for comment, as well as representatives for Vanity Fair.
Tenants will foot the bill for painful tax hikes Rachel Reeves imposed on landlords in the Budget, property insiders warn.

The Chancellor increased income tax on money made from renting out properties from 20 to 22 per cent for landlords paying the basic rate, and from 40 to 42 per cent for those on the higher rate.

It will net the Treasury 500million extra per year by 2028-29.

This extra cost will be passed to tenants through higher rents, it is claimed.

Michael Cook, chief executive of estate agents LRG, described the move as 'a back-door stealth tax on renters rather than landlords'.

Extra costs: Industry experts say rents are likely to rise as a consequence of the Budget

While rent rises have eased off this year, tenants are still stinging from double-digit annual percentage rises in the aftermath of the pandemic.

Average advertised rents outside of London rose 3.1 per cent to a record high of 1,385 per month in the year to the end of October 2025, according to Rightmove.

This represents 44 per cent of the average person's salary, the property website said, up from 40 per cent five years ago.

Tenants could even be forced to leave their homes as a result of Reeves' tax increase which will bite in April 2027, property experts said, as more landlords will decide to quit the market all together.

Adam Jennings, head of lettings at estate agent Chestertons, said the move will have 'dire consequences' for tenants.

'More landlords could decide to sell up which will result in fewer available rental properties and leave more renters struggling to find a property within their budget,' he added.

While bad news for tenants, this could prove positive for those looking to get on the property ladder.

David Hollingworth, associate director at broker L&C mortgages, said: 'This will be another big blow to landlords who have been increasingly hit by measures that have made it harder to maintain returns on rental property.

'If they choose to exit, it may potentially free up property for first time buyers.'

It is the latest in a string of punishing tax hikes landlords have had to contend with in the past decade.

In her previous Budget in October 2024, Reeves added a 2 per cent stamp duty surcharge for landlord buying properties on top of the extra 3 per cent they already pay, adding thousands of pounds to the cost of buy-to-let purchases.

Landlords who own property in their own name, rather than in a company structure, are also now unable to fully offset mortgage interest costs against their tax bill as they did previously.

Some are also concerned about the impact of the Renters Rights Act which became law last month but has not yet been fully enacted.

This bans 'no-fault' evictions, meaning landlords must prove they have a good reason to ask tenants to move out, and stops landlords from tying tenants in to fixed-term contracts.

It will also stop landlords from refusing renters because they have children or receive benefits, and from refusing requests from tenants to keep a pet without good reason.
During a painful run-up to the Budget, Rachel Reeves and her team repeatedly complained about the Office of Budget Responsibilitys choice to reassess Britains productivity.

Despite a reality in which the Bank of England and the IMF had pared UK productivity and growth projections, it was suggested that the OBR was behaving unfairly, having failed to update its upbeat forecast for 15 years.

The Chancellor places great faith in the 120billion of extra capital spending to deliver improved productivity and output.

As wonderful as projects such as a Lower Thames Crossing might be, big infrastructure will struggle to repair Britains growth shortfall any time soon.

The US has some of the worst roads, bridges, railways and airports in the Western world but the most robust expansion.

'As President Calvin Coolidge noted a century ago: The chief business of the American people is business.

Tax and spend: Chancellor Rachel Reeves (pictured) is convinced that government can deliver growth through state investment

One would be hard put to find Reeves or anyone in the Labour Party say that. Among the more disturbing lines in the OBRs forecast is the trend for business investment.

Far from driving output and prosperity, it is set to slump by 0.4 per cent next year and expand at a pallid rate up to 2030.

The wealth-creating private sector of the economy has little chance of delivering. Reeves could have doubled down on business expensing, allowing firms to charge investment in plant, machinery, and the digital economy against tax.

Remarkably she headed in a different direction. The Budget toughens up the rules governing the writing down of assets, in a move that raises 5.5billion of revenue over the course of the Parliament.

It may appear a harmless adjustment, but it strips cash out of corporate coffers.

Money being removed from commerce far exceeds the amounts being spent on what the Red Book describes as a Modern Industrial Strategy to support key sectors such as life sciences and digital tech.

Reeves promised an assault on the cost of living with a price freeze on rail fares and prescriptions and the removal of green charges from household energy bills.

Thats all fine. But the jump in the minimum wage, the upcoming workers rights bill and the raid on salary sacrifice pension contributions all add to corporate costs and eventually feed through to higher prices.

The Chancellor is convinced that government can deliver growth through state investment. Soaring costs of HS2, the super-nuclear plant at Hinkley and disruptive, never-ending road works, all show how little bang the state gets for its buck.

Dimon geezer

Writing in his annual letter to shareholders in 2021, celebrity banker Jamie Dimon argued that Brexit cannot be positive for Britain and warned the bank might move European operations out of London.

That has changed dramatically. JP Morgan has launched Chase as an online bank in London and acquired City wealth management app Nutmeg.

Currently, admiration for Britain shows no bounds. JP Morgans new state-of-the-art headquarters in Manhattan was designed by famed UK architects Foster + Partners, and the multi-layered catering  including a pub  is being provided by Compass.

Now the Wall Street giant is calling on Foster again to design one of Europes biggest towers in East London at Canary Wharf as part of a whopping 9.9billion investment in Britain.

The new tower will house 12,000 JP Morgan bankers and be its largest office in Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

The project will be one of the biggest post-Brexit commitments to London as a financial centre, dwarfing the Shard and demonstrate that the glory days for Canary Wharf, a landmark project of the Thatcher-Heseltine era, are far from over.

The Chancellors decision to forgo a new bank tax, as advocated on the Left, cannot have hurt.

University challenge

NatWest is doing its bit to support UK innovators at pioneering research universities by signing entrepreneurial partnerships with Oxford, Manchester, Brighton and York.

Its target is to support British R&D by backing early-stage firms, university spin-outs, and student entrepreneurs.

Not quite venture investors Sequoia and Silicon Valley yet, but the right idea.
The most successful new Chinese car manufacturers in the UK have responded to the Chancellor's latest sting on electric vehicles by introducing a new deal that mitigates its financial impact.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced on Wednesday an additional eVED tax on EVs with a 3p per mile charge that will come into force in April 2028.

The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) estimates that it will cost EV drivers an extra 255 in the fiscal year 2028-29 if they drive 8,500 miles annual - and this will be on top of the standard rate of VED, which currently stands at 195.

But to make sure new EV buyers aren't stung, Omoda and Jaecoo - sub-brands of Chery, China's largest car export - have introduced their own 'EV Tax Rebate' on their two all-electric models.

The Omoda E5 and Jaecoo E5 electric SUVs will come with a tax rebate equivalent to 20,000 miles at 3p per mile.

While the Treasury's road pricing tax will not come into effect for another three years, Omoda and Jaecoo say the saving can be used immediately on vehicles purchased through its joint national retailer network.

Omoda and Jaecoo - sub-brands of Chery, China's largest car export - have introduced their own 'EV Tax Rebate' on their two all-electric models to help EV buyers who will have to pay the new EV pay-per-mile tax from 2028

As long as the vehicle has an approved 48-month finance agreement and orders are placed and accepted by 31 December, new Omoda and Jaecoo customers can enjoy their EVs with the manufacturer-funded saving.

The new Chinese co-brands say this ensures that the value of the rebate remains relevant over the full four-year term. In this way it effectively pre-covers a portion of the future tax burden during the life of the agreement.

The EV Tax Rebate is designed to 'ensure customers can immediately benefit from lower running costs and reduced lifetime ownership expenditure at a time when electric vehicles are becoming increasingly central to the UKs transport and decarbonisation strategy'.

The OBR says the average 255-a-year charge to EV owners is roughly equivalent to half the rate of fuel duty tax paid per mile by drivers of petrol and diesel vehicles.

The Omoda and Jaecoo EV Tax Rebate intends to offset between two and three-years worth of this new pay-per-mile EV tax.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced this afternoon that electric vehicles will be subject to a 3p per mile road pricing charge from April 2028 that she says 'is only right' EV owners pay

Omoda E5: The electric SUV and Jaecoo E5 small electric SUV will come with a tax rebate equivalent to 20,000 miles at 3p per mile

Gary Lan, CEO of Omoda and Jaecoo, said: 'The Budget introduces a new 3p-per-mile EV tax from 2028-2029, and we want to make the transition to electric driving as smooth as possible for our customers immediately  not three or four years from now.

'Our EV Tax Rebate for the Omoda E5 and Jaecoo E5 effectively covers the first few years of this new tax, giving drivers the equivalent of thousands of miles of zero-cost motoring.

'These vehicles represent the forefront of electric mobility, and this initiative reflects our commitment to making clean, efficient, and intelligent transportation more accessible to UK drivers from day one.'

Jaecoo E5: The Omoda and Jaecoo EV Tax Rebate intends to offset between two- and three-years worth of this new pay-per-mile EV tax. The vehicle has to be bought through the OJ network with an approved 48-month finance agreement and orders need to be placed and accepted by 31 December

Omoda launched in the UK in August 2024 and Jaecoo in January 2025, and yet combined the two Chinese brands surpassed 25,000 sales by August this year.

In September alone they jointly sold over 10,000 vehicles and achieved a 3.45 per cent market share making both brands some of 'the fastest-growing and most in-demand automotive brands in the country'.

They've quickly established themselves as offering affordable, tech-heavy crossover and SUV models that deliver a lot for the money, especially compared to many European premium car makers.

Lan comments: 'Were building trust, proving ourselves, and giving customers more than they expect.'
An agreement to end the war in Ukraine is said to be closer. The truce between Israel and Hamas is largely holding, too.

Is this the moment to give thanks, breathe a huge sigh of relief and sell defence stocks after their stellar rises?

Or are Nato countries and other governments set to further increase their defence spending plans?

Geopolitical instability remains high, with tensions in the Far East and elsewhere.

Meanwhile, the US may, in future, prove less willing to be the global policeman.

In 2024, Nato members' military expenditure was $2.7 trillion, but this will be raised as they move towards their pledge to allocate 5 per cent of GDP to defence by 2035.

Supersonic: Eurofighter Typhoons are part-built by BAE Systems

In this week's Budge, Chancellor Rachel Reeves reiterated that 2.6 per cent of Britain's GDP will be dedicated to defence by April 2027, although the commitment to boost this target to 3 per cent by 2035  at a cost of 32billion  was mysteriously missing from Budget forecasts.

Not so long ago, shares in UK aerospace, armaments and munitions operators such as BAE, Babcock and Rolls-Royce were shunned by some on moral grounds.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022 sparked a significant shift in thinking, as part of which investing in the defence of the realm began to be seen as ethical.

One result of this alteration in attitudes has been a jump in the share price of Rolls-Royce, which is some 1050 per cent higher than three years ago at 1068p, despite having moved sideways in recent weeks.

But analysts seem to consider the shares to be what you could call reassuringly expensive.

Brokers UBS  which first recommended Rolls-Royce in March 2023 (when the price was 153p)  are even targeting another leap to 1345p.

This forecast suggests that Rolls-Royce and other defence stocks have become an essential defensive part of a portfolio in a world that remains hugely uncertain. These are three UK stocks that could be the bulwark in your portfolio.

Ambitious plans: Tufan Erginbilic

Rolls-Royce

Tufan Erginbilic, the engineer's chief executive, aspires to turn the 87.5billion business into the largest FTSE 100 company.

This is the kind of ambition that sets shareholders' pulses racing, although they have already enjoyed a considerable bounty from the turnaround at Rolls-Royce, driven by the energetic Erginbilic.

The leap to the top of the FTSE 100, unseating AstraZeneca from this prized position, would be propelled partly by the artificial intelligence (AI) arms race.

Rolls-Royce makes nuclear reactors for submarines, but it will also be building small nuclear reactors (SMRs) to provide energy for data centres. These are vast, server-filled structures vital to the deployment of AI.

Of course, Rolls-Royce would also need to rely on more demand for its engines from its civil and defence customers.

The business derives most of its revenues from engine maintenance and servicing, ensuring that they spend more time in the air. The recent third-quarter results showed that engine flying hours (EFHs) are at 109 per cent of their pre-pandemic level.

As this column reported last week, Stephen Anness, head of global equities at Invesco, remains upbeat about the prospects for Rolls-Royce, highlighting such strengths as improving margins in its civil aviation operation and the contribution that SMRs will make in getting cash to flow.

His optimism is widely shared. Analysts rate Rolls-Royce a 'buy' with an average target price of 1198p.

RBC Capital Market has a target of 1275p, contending that the company will keep on exceeding profit expectations.

Chloe Lemarie of Jefferies is even more enthusiastic, with a target price of 1290p.

Babcock

At the announcement of its better-than-expected full-year profits this week, Babcock confirmed the view that nations do not intend to trim defence spending.

Chief executive David Lockwood cited a 'sustained uplift in global defence budgets'  particularly in the fields of marine and nuclear.

Babcock, a 5.62billion FTSE 100 member, designs and manufactures specialist equipment, building vessels such as the Type 31 warship.

It also provides support services, maintaining the Royal Navy's nuclear submarines, for example.

Babcock shares are up by 124 per cent since January to 1133p. Nevertheless, analysts rate them a 'buy', with a target price of 1308p, enthused by the firm's strong order pipeline.

BAE Systems

BAE is Britain's largest name in defence. The output of this multinational corporation includes aircraft, fighter jets and submarines.

It will also be making the satellites for America's Golden Dome missile defence system.

This 48.3billion FTSE 100 business' shares hit a high of 2073p in October. They have fallen to 1651p. But this is still 43 per cent higher than at the start of the year, suggesting that investors have been taking advantage of the dip to snap up a slice of this British success story.

Just two of the 20 analysts that follow the stock consider them to be a 'sell'.

Seven believe you should 'hold', but 11 think they are 'buy'. The average target price is 2121p. Major trusts, such as City of London, have exposure to BAE.

But if you would like a spread of global players in the armaments, aerospace and munition industries, the Han Future of Defence exchange traded fund (ETF) tends to be the option preferred by the professionals, including Ben Yearsley of Fairview Consulting.

He points out that the fund aims not only to benefit from the defence spending of Nato members and their allies, but also from a portion of state budgets now being reserved for cybersecurity.

The fund's major holdings include the French aerospace contractor Safran and German group Rheinmetall, known for products such as the Lynx armoured vehicle and the Skyranger air defence system.

The largest stake is Palantir, the US technology titan famous for its expertise in the AI-powered analysis of battlefield data.

It is one of President Trump's favoured defence names. Shares in Palantir have soared by 2240 per cent over the past three years, but were caught up this month in the alarm over the overvaluation of AI stocks.

These concerns persist, but a diversification into defence could prove a shield at this nervous time in our history.
JP Morgan Chase has unveiled plans to build a tower in Londons Canary Wharf in an estimated 10billion boost to the UK.

The banking giants plans come as rival Goldman Sachs revealed it will double the number of staff at its Birmingham office in the coming years, from around 500 to more than 1,000.

The fresh commitments to their businesses in the UK come a day after the Budget, in which banks escaped tax rises that many in the industry had feared.

Rachel Reeves said the banks were choosing Britain because they like what they heard in the Budget.

Ahead of the Budget, the Chancellor reportedly asked banks to praise her plans after she decided against raising taxes on the industry.

This raised eyebrows in the City. Veteran banker Ken Costa, former chairman of Lazard International, said no credible business person has been prepared to endorse this Budget.

London calling: An artist's impression of the planned JP Morgan Chase tower in London's Canary Wharf

JP Morgan Chase said the new building will house 12,000 of its staff, and take six years to build.

Chief executive Jamie Dimon said: This building will represent our lasting commitment to the City, the UK, our clients and our people.
Car production slumped to a near-70-year low last month in the wake of the crippling cyber attack on Jaguar Land Rover, industry figures revealed.

Just over 59,000 vehicles rolled off UK production lines in October, down 23.8 per cent on a year earlier, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

It was the worst October for the industry since 1956.

The slump triggered fresh criticism of the Governments new pay-per-mile levy on electric vehicles  with the SMMT branding it the wrong measure at the wrong time.

The UK car industry was plunged into crisis when JLR, the countrys biggest carmaker, was hit by hackers at the end of August, forcing it to close down its factories for five weeks.

The company, owned by Indias Tata Motors, only resumed production in early October having failed to build a single car in September.

Around 1,000 vehicles a day usually roll off JLR production lines in the West Midlands and Merseyside and the pause left its suppliers in limbo.

Halted: Around 1,000 vehicles a day usually roll off JLR production lines in the West Midlands (pictured) and Merseyside and the pause left its suppliers in limbo

There were fears that small firms producing parts for the car giant could collapse without financial support.

Mike Hawes, the SMMT chief executive, said the crisis was felt across the car industry.

He added: Growth is on the horizon, however, and government has recognised the automotive industry as a pillar of national strategic importance.

Investment competitiveness also depends on a healthy domestic market, however, notably for EVs, and introducing a new electric vehicle excise duty is the wrong measure at the wrong time.

'This new tax will undermine demand, so government must work with industry to reduce the cost of compliance and protect the UKs investment appeal.

The SMMT figures showed almost half of Octobers output was electrified  battery electric, plug-in hybrid or hybrid models.

Car production for the UK market fell by 10.6 per cent to 13,785 units, while output for export declined by 27.1 per cent.

The SMMT said 45,225 cars were produced for global markets  representing more than three quarters of total output.
Retailers have accused Labour of not wanting to upset China after Rachel Reeves said it could take four years to close a customs loophole on cheap imports.

Bosses are furious after the Chancellor said the clampdown will take place as late as March 2029 so the Government can consult on the technical detail first.

The concession allows firms like Shein and Temu, most of whose products are made in China, to post parcels under 135 directly to UK shoppers without paying duty.

Andrew Goodacre of the British Independent Retailers Association accused Labour of not wanting to upset China in any shape or form  and if that means High Street retailers suffering, so be it.

He said: Why wait until 2029? The USA closed their loophole in six months. Europe are set to do the same next year.

'Four years is an extraordinary amount of time. In the meantime we are expected to live with this unfair competition.
The UK is facing a shortage of Guinness Zero this Christmas after workers voted to go on strike in a dispute over pay, union bosses have warned.

Around 90 staff at the companys packaging site in Belfast will walk out on December 5 with the industrial action running until December 13.

The Unite union said the workers are demanding a substantial increase in pay to close the gap with their counterparts at owner Diageos site in Runcorn in Cheshire.

The union claimed the 'the UK is facing a Guinness zero drought this Christmas' due to the strike - something vehemently denied by Diageo.

Unite regional officer Michael Keenan said: Diageos Belfast site is the worlds biggest producer of Guinness Zero and this strike action will severely disrupt production lines in the run-up to Christmas. Management needs to stop disrespecting our members and return to the negotiating table with an offer that meets workers pay expectations.

Diageo launched Guinness Zero to tap into growing demand for non-alcoholic drinks

Diageo, whose other brands include Johnnie Walker, Smirnoff and Captain Morgan, launched Guinness Zero in 2020 to tap into growing demand for non-alcoholic drinks.

The strike is a headache for new boss Sir Dave Lewis, who takes over at Diageo on January 1 soon after the industrial action comes to an end.

The former Tesco chief, who will be paid 1.5million a year plus bonuses, is known as 'Drastic Dave' in the City for his ability to cut costs and take bold decisions.

He has been brought in to revive flagging sales and turn Diageo around - with some speculating that this could even include the sale of Guinness.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham added: Diageo is one of the largest and most profitable drinks companies in the world. It can fully afford to make workers a decent offer but has chosen to put profits before people.

A Diageo spokesman said: There will be no disruption to the supply of Guinness or Guinness 0.0 over the Christmas period.

We have contingency plans in place to manage any potential impact at our can packaging site in Belfast.

While we are disappointed by the outcome of the ballot for industrial action at our can packaging site in Belfast, we strongly believe that continued engagement is the best way of securing a resolution that recognises employees for their valued contribution, while ensuring the long-term competitiveness of the site.
So, what a week its been for Boohoo investors. The shares have doubled on the back of a strong uptick in trading.

But the headline grabber has been the row that has erupted over a potential 150 million payout to the companys chief executive if he can enact a Lazarus-like revival of the business, which now trades under the Debenhams name.

The share-based payout to Dan Finley, which is based on meeting some very stretching criteria, wont be put to a vote by investors. This is reported to have irked Mike Ashleys Frasers Group, which owns around 29 per cent of Boohoo.

The company has defended its decision to push through a new turnaround incentive plan without putting it to a shareholder vote, saying a formal approval process would slow the company down at a critical moment.

The group argued that speeding up the scheme would better motivate senior leaders to deliver what it described as substantial share price growth.

In a pointed reference to Frasers, Boohoo said a major competitor with a large stake had repeatedly hindered its strategy and day-to-day operations.

Against that backdrop, the board said it believed skipping a vote was the most effective way to protect the interests of other investors and get the turnaround plan moving.

Debenhams boss Dan Finley set for 150m payday if shares skyrocket

The new incentive package, called the Group Turnaround Scheme, could be worth up to about 222million for the entire management team if the shares climb to 300p within the next five years.

Now, that is a big ask, given they are sitting at around 25p (up 40 per cent on Friday). According to Peel Hunt, theres still a lot of heavy lifting to do. That seems to be the understatement of the year.

Turning to the wider market, the AIM All-Share entered the final day of a quiet weeks trading in fine fettle, adding 2 per cent. The small-cap benchmark received a double dose of decent news this week from Chancellor Rachel Reeves.

Shes introducing a three-year exemption from stamp duty for new UK listings, which is hoped will kick-start the IPO market. Sentiment was further buoyed by the changes to cash ISA rules, which it is hoped will funnel savings into the public markets. Whether that cash finds its way as far down as AIM and Aquis remains to be seen.

Just behind Boohoo on the winners list was European Metals, which jumped 60 per cent after the firm announced that its 49 per cent-owned Cinovec lithium project has been approved for a Czech government grant of up to 360million.

The award, subject to final administrative steps, is under the Strategic Investments for a Climate-Neutral Economy programme. The grant will fund eligible capital costs and support large-scale battery material production.

Cinovec has already received 36million from the EU Just Transition Fund and has been declared a Strategic Project under the EU Critical Raw Materials Act. These designations provide access to accelerated permitting and EU-level financial support, it noted.

Up 51 per cent, Shield Therapeutics appears to be getting its mojo back. The fact the movement came in a zero-news week for the business does look a little spurious. However, the group is seeing decent commercial traction for its iron-deficiency drug.

Now onto the losers. EQTEC shares plunged 43 per cent as the waste-to-energy group warned of working-capital strain and detailed a debt-restructuring plan involving Rebel Ion, which may buy 5.8 million of loans. The deal requires an equity raise, with no certainty it will complete.

Versarien shares tumbled 39 per cent after a would-be buyer abandoned talks to acquire its remaining assets, leaving the engineering materials group weighing options including administration. The collapse of last months tentative deal removes a potential lifeline as the board seeks urgent alternatives.

Premier African Minerals slid 32 per cent this week and is down 83 per cent year-to-date after raising 500,000 via a discounted share subscription. The cash offers short-term breathing room for Zulu project work, but heavy dilution and ongoing funding strain weighed on sentiment.

And finally, IP Group was on the up this week, rising 8 per cent after the Chancellor handed deep-tech investors a genuine boost.

Susie Harris of IPs Parkwalk investment arm told Proactive that doubling the funding cap for knowledge-intensive companies to 40 million should help UK spinouts stay and scale at home rather than being snapped up early.

With support from bodies such as the British Business Bank and the National Wealth Fund, she argued the UK now has a clearer path to becoming a scale-up economy, and that later-stage capital, including pension funds, could finally start backing these companies through global growth.

For all the breaking mid- and small-cap news go to www.proactiveinvestors.co.uk
Britain is 'stuck in reverse' and the Budget did nothing to resolve it, according to the boss of Asda.

Allan Leighton, who has spent decades running some of the country's largest retailers, lambasted the Chancellor for policies that 'hamper investment' and hit growth.

The comments came as he shed light on Asda's own problems  with a botched IT upgrade setting a turnaround back by six months.

In stark comments that highlight the extent of businesses' frustration with Rachel Reeves, Leighton said: 'The country is stuck in reverse.

'It needs two things: growth and productivity.

'Nothing that the Government is doing is helping either of those two things.

Forthright view: Britain is 'stuck in reverse' and the Budget did nothing to resolve it, according to Allan Leighton

'If you don't grow, you don't have any productivity. If you don't grow and don't have any productivity, you don't have any consumer confidence.

'So I sort of nearly give up. I don't think the Budget was helpful in any way, shape or form.'

He added that he 'can list 5,000 things that are hampering growth' as firms face yet further rises in business rates and wages following the Chancellor's speech.

Before the Budget, Leighton urged Reeves to 'stop taxing everything' while Tesco boss Ken Murphy declared 'enough is enough'.

Despite concerns about consumer confidence, Leighton said Britons were still set to spend big at Christmas and admitted 'we always think it's going to be worse than it is'.

But he warned that customers were 'obviously not reacting positively' following the Budget this week.

Leighton, who made a return to Asda as executive chairman last year, said the supermarket will have to win back customers after sales dropped following a botched IT transformation.

Asda said the rollout of its 'Project Future' upgrade caused issues including 'inconsistent' stock levels and 'a poor customer experience online'.

This led to sales plunging 2.8 per cent to 5.3billion over the three months to the end of September.

This compared to the 0.2 per cent fall in the three months to the end of June  the previous quarter.

Leighton said: 'Clearly, we have lost some customers  but there's always an opportunity to win them back. Particularly on grocery home shopping, we will have to rebuild that customer base and restore some confidence.'

The UK's third-largest supermarket  placed behind Tesco and Sainsbury's  is nearly a year into what Leighton reckons will be a three to five-year revival mission.

Asda's market share has shrunk since its takeover four years ago by private equity business TDR and the billionaire Issa brothers.

Some retail analysts are even predicting that discount retailer Aldi could be just weeks from overtaking Asda as the UK's number three..

The supermarket group has been 'ultra-aggressive on pricing' to entice customers away from other supermarkets in the run-up to Christmas, Leighton added.
The boss of All Bar One owner Mitchells & Butlers has accused Rachel Reeves of being 'disingenuous' over business rates after it emerged pubs face a near-13,000 jump in their bills.

The Chancellor on Wednesday said she would 'introduce permanently lower tax rates' for more than 750,000 retail, hospitality and leisure properties.

She claimed it would be 'the lowest tax rates since 1991'.

But thousands of pubs and restaurants are now on the brink after it emerged their business rates bill will in fact rise.

'Disingenuous': Rachel Reeves said she would 'introduce permanently lower tax rates' for more than 750,000 retail, hospitality and leisure properties

Figures from UK Hospitality show that the average pub's business rates will increase by an 'eye-watering' 1,400 next year.

M&B chief executive Phil Urban said it was 'slightly disingenuous that she called out hospitality and retail as her being supportive [of], when the reality for some is business rates will jump'.

Kate Nicholls, boss of trade body UK Hospitality, said: 'The Government promised in its manifesto that it would level the playing field between the High Street and online giants. The plan in the Budget to achieve this is quickly unravelling.'

Publicans were shocked to discover after the Budget that their bills will go up and not down.

This is because small businesses will see just a 5p cut to their 'multiplier' that calculates the bill  a far cry from the 20p that had been called for.

After an initial 15 per cent increase next year, the average pub will see bills continue to rise each year  and by 2029 they will have risen by 76 per cent, or 12,900.

The bill for a distribution warehouse  as used by online giants such as Amazon  will have only increased by 16 per cent by 2029.

It came as M&B, whose pub chain brands also include Harvester, said it would have to foot an extra 130million hit on costs. These include wage increases announced at this week's Budget as well as rising food prices.
The number of new international college students in the United States has plunged by double digits, a new report by the Institute of International Education reveals  even as domestic student numbers continue to rise.

Enrollment has fallen by 17 percent this fall after a shift that could cost the US an estimated $1.1 billion and eliminate 23,000 jobs nationwide, according to the analysis.

The sharp decline in foreign students follows a series of Trump administration moves to tighten immigration rules, including reduced access to student visas.

Schools were urged to limit the number of foreign students they admit, while a 19country travel ban that has been in effect for about 6months, paused student visa interviews, and created outright cancellations of some visas that have made it substantially harder for students overseas to enter American campuses.

Russian anthropology student Polina Igumnova, who arrived at Hamilton College in New York in summer 2023, reports that foreign students are now avoiding the US for college, instead choosing universities in Europe and the Middle East.

'They don't feel welcome or safe necessarily coming here based on what we have seen lately,' she explained.

She says she hasn't seen her family since she came to the states. The risk of having to reapply for a visa is too great.

'I haven't been able to leave the country since Trump came into office because of my visa... It takes some people up to half a year to get visa interviews in some cases,' Igumnova said. 'I obviously won't be going home for the holidays.'

The number of new international college students in the United States has plunged by double digits, a new report by the Institute of International Education reveals  even as domestic student numbers continue to rise

Georgia State Patrol officers detain a demonstrator on the campus of Emory University during a proPalestinian demonstration

PhD students process through yard during Harvard University's 374th Commencement in May, 2025

Closeup of a sample of the Form I20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status

In late May 2025, universities began openly rebuking the administrations tightening restrictions on foreign students. Harvard filed a lawsuit on May 23 after the government attempted to block it from enrolling international students.

Two hundred college presidents also put out a joint-statement after the administrations education changes, warning that the mounting travel and visa barriers threatened academic freedom and the countrys research pipeline.

'Sometimes it feels like the US is turning into Russia... so I guess I feel at home,' Igumnova added sarcastically.

An Iranian student who asked to remain anonymous tells Daily Mail her university in Chicago has seen zero new students from Iran this year. Usually, she says there were around 100 new fellow Iranians that made her feel like she had a community.

'It's upsetting. They don't try to come anymore either,' she said.

Some experts warn that the trend could weaken the US economy in the long run, noting that immigrants often drive entrepreneurship and research efforts.

They also predict that next year could show even lower numbers as students decide to go elsewhere for their college experience.

Though the 17 percent slide is smaller than the 30 to 40 percent drop NAFSA predicted earlier this year, the organization's chief executive, Fanta Aw, issued a stark warning about America's slipping competitiveness.

'The pipeline of global talent in the United States is in a precarious position,' said Fanta Aw, NAFSA executive director and CEO. 'This fall, there are alarming declines that we ignore at our own peril. Other countries are creating effective incentives to capitalize on our mistakes,' she added.

A US official from the State Department defended the stricter process, saying, 'A US visa is a privilege, not a right As President Trump has said, we want to have great students here. The United States remains the global leader in higher education as the number one destination for international students... while ensuring only the top talent enter our nation'

Graduating MIT students wait in line to enter the OneMIT Commencement Ceremony

Federal data also revealed where the steepest declines are coming from.

An August International Trade Administration report found that Iran experienced an 86 percent drop in student visitors, followed by Syria at 63 percent and Haiti at 53 percent. Travel restrictions also impacted enrollment from Venezuela and Russia, both US adversaries.

Neal McCluskey, the Director of the Center for Educational Freedom at the Cato Institute, said the decline was predictable.

'It has since moderated that message, but I think the damage was already done for this academic year,' McCluskey noted.

A White House official said new guidelines cap international students at 15 percent of a university's undergraduate population, with no more than 5 percent from any single country.

'When the students don't come, neither does the money,' McCluskey pointed out.

He does, however, see signs of change coming down the pipeline.

'I think the trend is swinging back to greater openness I think that is in recognition of the value to the country of international students coming to our institutions and, often, staying and becoming important parts of the workforce,' McCluskey said.

He also noted, 'I think if the original goal was to discourage foreign enrollment, that goal might be changing.'

The White House argues that its policies are improving higher education by 'restoring merit.'

Universities, the White House official added, must also share relevant information about foreign students, including discipline records, when requested by the Department of Homeland Security or the Department of State

'He is simultaneously strengthening our country's visa programs to put American national security first,' said White House spokesperson Anna Kelly.

A State Department official defended the stricter process, saying, 'A US visa is a privilege, not a right.'
He masterminded two of the most daring prison escapes in modern history.

But Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzman is now claiming that the one place he can't break out of, is slowly destroying him.

The Mexican drug lord is suing federal officials over his extreme isolation and other conditions that he argues amount to cruel and unusual punishment, according to a new legal complaint.

And the Daily Mail can reveal, he is so starved for human contact that he is enjoying the visits of an 'attractive' Spanish-language interpreter behind bars.

'He really does like our interpreter,' David Lane, one of his Denver-based team of lawyers told the Daily Mail in an exclusive interview.

Drug kingpins at ADX have been known to hire gorgeous paralegals and interpreters with whom they're allowed visits.

The women offer company and conversation, the ultimate luxury at ADX.

Separated by the thick glass walls of a highly secured visiting booth, clients tell them about their lives and families, and ogle at them while federal monitors look on.

Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzman has been serving his life sentence at the most restrictive prison facilities in the country since 2019

The notorious drug lord, who has infamously escaped prison twice, is now languishing at United States Penitentiary, Administrative Maximum Facility, also called ADX, in Florence, Colorado

A diamond encrusted gun seized from El Chapo that's now displayed at a drug museum in Mexico City to fight against drug trafficking

There are strictly enforced dress rules prohibiting them from showing cleavage or wearing skirts that fall above the knee.

Guzman, 68, has been serving his life sentence at the United States Penitentiary, Administrative Maximum Facility, also called ADX, in Florence, Colorado since 2019.

Known as the 'Alcatraz of the Rockies,' it is the US government's highest-security supermax, housing inmates deemed too dangerous for other prisons  or too likely to escape.

Assigned to ADX's most restrictive wing, known as 'the Suites,' he typically spends at least 23 hours a day alone in a cell the size of two queen-sized mattresses, with limited access to an outdoor recreation cage and extremely little human contact.

His civil rights complaint lists a litany of grievances about his living conditions, including five years of sleep deprivation and 'near-constant severe sinus, ear, nose, and throat pain for years, without adequate medical care.'

'He is suffering greatly as a result of all this,' Lane said.

'Even in a prison known for its deprivation and isolation, he is virtually more deprived of human contact than any other inmate.'

Lane says Guzman's special set of restrictions, known as Special Administration Measures (SAMS), limit his ability to discuss who his client comes into contact with.

'If I divulge things that the government perceives are SAMS restrictions, things go very badly for me and for him,' he said.

Each cell at the supermax prison - which was designed to house the 'worst of the worst'- has a 4in-wide slit-like window angled so as neither to provide a view of the sky nor of other cells

Assigned to ADX's most restrictive wing, known as 'the Suites,' he typically spends at least 23 hours a day alone in a cell the size of two queen-sized mattresses, with

His filing also claims that special restrictions designed to prevent him from running his cartel from behind bars 'keep him from contact with his family' and give him 'little to no access to Spanish-speaking mental health professionals, and no meaningful access to educational programs and materials that could help him learn English and therefore pave the way to more substantial human contact.'

In a statement to the Daily Mail, a spokesperson said: 'The Bureau of Prisons does not comment on pending litigation or matters that are the subject of legal proceedings.'

Guzman spent decades running the Sinaloa Cartel, one of the largest, most powerful and violent drug trafficking rings in the world.

He became notorious for smuggling massive amounts of cocaine, heroin, marijuana and methamphetamine into multiple continents. Much of it came into the US through a sophisticated network of tunnels.

Guzman, once named by Forbes as among the world's richest people, is also infamous for having bribed law enforcement and politicians and assassinated his rivals through death squads.

Indictments against him in the US detail dozens of specific murders linked to him or his orders, but some sources suggest that thousands of people may have died as a result of the cartel's activities under his leadership.

The rags-to-riches cartel boss became somewhat of a folk hero in Mexico after escaping from a prison there in 2001, allegedly smuggled out in a laundry cart.

He spent 13 years on the run before being caught and sent to a maximum-security prison.

His legend grew in 2015 when he escaped again, this time through a tunnel his crews bored between a warehouse nearly a mile from his prison to a shaft under the shower of his cell.

The underground escape route was large enough so that the 5'6" 'El Chapo'  Spanish for 'shorty'  could stand upright.

The tunnel was equipped with a motorbike to make his get-away faster.

'He becomes the GOAT of prison escapes,' Carl Pike, a retired US Drug Enforcement Administration special agent who worked on Guzman's case, says in a documentary about the cartel boss's wife, Emma Coronel.

The show, 'Married to El Chapo: Emma Coronel speaks,' is set to premier on Oxygen on Friday.

It is part of her effort to reinvent  or, at least, explain  herself in light of her family's notoriety.

Guzman spent decades running Mexico's Sinaloa Cartel, one of the largest, most powerful and violent drug trafficking rings in the world. He is pictured after his capture in in 2014

An expert at escaping from Mexican prisons - El Chapo's current home is constantly being watched by guards atop towers

Coronel was a regional beauty queen in Mexico when she married Guzman, 32 years her senior, at age 18 in 2007. The couple has twin girls.

He was recaptured six months after his second prison escape and extradited to the US.

Coronel regularly attended her husband's trial in New York, during which she learned of his long string of infidelity.

'He didn't do drugs. He didn't really drink. But he ate Viagra like candy. He was addicted to women,' Pike says in the documentary.

'I can tell you it hurts that I wasn't the only partner in his life, that there were some before, after and while we were together,' Coronel adds about her husband's cheating.

It also came out at trial that Coronel helped plan Guzman's second escape from prison by smuggling to him a GPS watch that helped cartel members digging the tunnel pinpoint the exact location of his cell.

She was arrested and charged for involvement with the cartel, ultimately pleading guilty in 2021 to three federal charges.

She has been living under federal supervision since her release from prison in 2023, and is cultivating her fame partly by doing modeling work  including a runway appearance during fashion week in Milan last year when she modeled a wedding dress.

A documentary about the cartel boss's wife, 'Married to El Chapo: Emma Coronel speaks' is set to premier on Oxygen on November 28

Coronel opens up about learning she wasn't 'the only partner' in her husband's life

Coronel cannot communicate with her husband, who is under special restrictions at ADX severely limiting his access to mail, phone calls and visits so he can't continue running the Sinaloa Cartel from behind bars.

He has for seven years also been prohibited from contact with her, his sisters and adult children, some of whom have been involved  directly or indirectly  with the drug ring.

One of them, Ovidio Guzman Lopez, who helped run the cartel after his father's extradition, pleaded guilty to federal drug charges last summer.

Lane told us that his client is allowed to speak by phone only with the 14-year-old twin daughters he shares with Coronel.

'They're the only family he can communicate with,' he said.

Guzman filed his lawsuit specifically against ADX's warden, Mistelle Starr, and a counselor at the prison named John Holbrooks.

He alleges that, despite pain in his ears, nose and throat for more than three years, prison brass have refused to let him see a specialist 'or any other qualified medical professional who could help treat and alleviate his condition.'

'Plaintiff has resorted to stuffing small pieces of toilet paper in his ears at night to try to alleviate the pain, with no notable success,' his court filing reads.

The drug kingpin's wife Emma Coronel Aispuro (pictured in 2017) was a regional beauty queen in Mexico when she married Guzman, 32 years her senior, at age 18. He has been banned from contacting her from behind bars

Coronel Aispuro is pictured with the couple's twin girls arriving at the Brooklyn Federal Courthouse in 2018

It goes on to say that hot air is blown into Guzman's cell for 15 minutes every two hours, waking him four to five times each night.

'Indeed, his mattress gets so hot that he opts to sleep on the concrete frame instead, in hopes of ameliorating his overheating enough to get even small amounts (of) sleep,' his filing claims.

The complaint says Guzman has begun suffering high blood pressure, depression and memory problems due to prolonged sleep deprivation.

On a typical day, the drug lord  who does not speak English  has no contact with anyone who speaks his native Spanish, depriving him of 'meaningful contact with other human beings,' it reads.

'Plaintiff is endeavoring to learn English to expand his world and hopefully enhance his ability to connect with the people around him, as well as to learn about the American criminal and civil justice system and meaningfully participate in his own litigation.

But he is being prevented from learning English by Defendants: he is given ESL worksheets that do not include Spanish instructions and are therefore entirely inscrutable to him.'

The complaint also alleges that the warden has denied Guzman access to Spanish-speaking mental health professionals.

Without such access, his lawyers argue: 'Plaintiff therefore has vanishingly little help from the mental health staff to deal with the trauma of prolonged solitary confinement and other events and conditions which adversely affect his mental health.'

Guzman's civil rights complaint claims he has suffered health issues, including five years of sleep deprivation, behind bars

Meals at ADX are shoved through slots in the door and inmates like Guzman are only allowed out of their cell a few hours a week to exercise alone in a recreation cage below ground level with no direct sunlight

Solitary confinement was first used in the US in the 1820s as a morally progressive social experiment by Quakers, who urged lawmakers to replace amputations, mutilations and the death penalty with efforts toward rehabilitation.

They hoped that long periods of introspection would help criminals repent.

Charles Dickens, after touring an American prison that imposed prolonged isolation in the 1840s, described its effect as a 'slow and daily tampering with the mysteries of the brain immeasurably worse than any torture of the body.'

Most prisons suspended solitary confinement in the mid- to late-1800s once it became clear that it wasn't rehabilitating inmates.

The Supreme Court weighed in on the topic in 1890, freeing a Colorado man who had been sentenced to death for killing his wife because of the psychological harm solitary confinement had caused him.

It described how long-term isolation can make inmates crazy, writing that a considerable number 'fell, after even a short confinement, into a semi-fatuous condition, from which it was next to impossible to arouse them.'

Solitary confinement came back into use after 1983 when inmates killed two guards in two separate incidents on one day at the US Penitentiary in Marion, Illinois, then the highest security federal prison.

That set in motion a scramble to build the federal supermax in Colorado to put the so-called 'worst of the worst' in prolonged solitary confinement  removing them not only from the rest of society, but also from each other and staff.

Guzman, is shown in this courtroom sketch with defense attorney Jeffrey Lichtman in Brooklyn federal court in November 2018

ADX is the only federal super-maximum detention facility in the US and is home to America's most notorious criminals

Meals at ADX are shoved through slots in the door. Guzman is allowed out of his cell a few hours a week to exercise, alone, in an adjacent recreation cage below ground level with no direct sunlight.

'He's in the holeyest of holes,' says Lane, noting that his client spends time reading books in Spanish or watching the limited Spanish-language TV available to him.

'He has not seen the sun, he has not felt the sun in years,' she adds.

Court records suggest Guzman also may have struck up a relationship with another inmate housed on his extra-restrictive wing of ADX.

James 'Jimmy' Sabatino is a mobster and con artist with a history of running scams even from behind bars.

In a highly unusual move, Sabatino  who once persuaded a FedEx office that he was the president of the Miami Dolphins and needed to retrieve some packages, thus netting himself $268,000-worth of Super Bowl tickets asked to serve his 20-year sentence at ADX, arguing that the only way to stop himself from conning people is to be totally cut off.

But the extreme isolation was apparently too much, and Sabatino and Guzman have been communicating by knocking or shouting through the walls of their nearby cells.

In a court filing earlier this year, Sabatino argued that long-term isolation has caused his mental health, and Guzman's, to deteriorate.

He asked that the pair be allowed in their adjacent recreation cages at the same time so they can walk and talk together.

'They are human beings,' Sabatino's lawyer told CBS News Miami. 'They may be flawed individuals, but they should be treated as human beings.'
It was a conveyor belt of depravity as well as a shuttle for some of the world's most famous individuals, including two US presidents.

Now, more dark secrets of Jeffrey Epstein's infamous Lolita Express private airliner are set to come under the microscope with the imminent dump of Government files on the dead pedophile financier.

The notorious sex-trafficker used his Boeing 727-100 to ferry a host of international A-listers around the globe, including ex-Commander in Chief Bill Clinton and the former Prince Andrew, now known as Mr Andrew Mountbatten Windsor.

But he also used callsign N90JE to shuttle his young girl victims between lavish homes in New York, the US Virgin Islands, New Mexico and his waterfront mansion in Palm Beach, Florida.

President Donald Trump, named as a passenger on the jet according to flight logs, signed the Epstein Transparency Act into law on November 19.

It means the Department of Justice has until December 19 to release all unclassified records of the investigation into the monster, who killed himself in prison in 2019.

These must also include files relating to his accomplice 'madam', Ghislaine Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year sentence in a cushy Texas prison  and crucially, 'flight logs or travel records' including 'itineraries, pilot records'.

Any revelations are therefore likely to include a spotlight on the infamous aircraft, in which 63-year-old Maxwell was photographed creepily giving Epstein a foot massage with her white shirt wide open.

With a major dump of Justice Department files looming, investigators and the public are bracing for new revelations about the dark secrets aboard Epstein's Lolita Express

Exclusive Daily Mail images offer a rare look inside the jet, showing gaudy decor throughout - most strikingly, a red-velvet-clad TV room centered around a paneled sofa

Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year sentence in a cushy Texas prison, has been seen on the Lolita Express, with one photo showing her rubbing his feet while sitting on gray fur

And that means the possibility of a whole new tranche of VIP names being outed and becoming embroiled in the Epstein horror story.

The jet, which took its last flight in 2016, was sitting forlornly at Georgia's Brunswick Golden Isles Airport when photographed by the Daily Mail in 2020.

Our exclusive pictures revealed the expansive layout of the aircraft, which was split into a series of rooms.

Garish red, dark brown, cream and brass dominated the decor, which included extensive wood paneling, mirrored walls and deep cushioning.

One room contained sectional sofas with individual armrests like many families have in their homes to watch TV. Another was dominated by bright red velvet, including a paneled sofa.

At the back of the plane, a large wooden bed had under-mattress drawers that still contained spare bed linen.

Clinton, 79, flew on it up to a reported 26 times after he left office, but he would hardly have recognized the formerly lavish interior, which fell into disrepair as the plane was mothballed.

However, chilling pointers to the notorious former owner remained  including monogrammed tissues and a bottle of Johnson's baby lotion in a wooden-paneled bathroom.

Another picture from the DOJ next door to the red velvet room was another large cream-colored velvet sectional that created a circle to match the shape of the room

In the planes rear section, a sizable wooden bed was found, with under-mattress storage that continued to house folded spare sheets

Epstein made sure he had plenty of sheets for his bed in the rear cabin of his private aircraft

Although the plane now sits abandoned, remnants of Epstein still linger, including in the bathroom where old bottles of Johnson's baby lotion and monogrammed tissues are found under the cabinets

Mundane items such as toilet paper, water bottles and instant coffee were other reminders of the corroded and virtually worthless jet's former life.

The plane arrived in Georgia from Palm Beach on July 11, 2016, and became unregistered three years later. Two years ago, Florida-based World Aviation Services, which acquired it, told the Daily Mail it was set to be scrapped after failing to find a buyer.

Clinton's reps have said he flew on the Lolita Express on four overall trips related to humanitarian and philanthropic work for his foundation.

These included multiple flight legs to locations including Morocco, China, Armenia, Japan, Singapore, Norway and Belgium.

The former president has repeatedly said he was unaware of Epstein's crimes. He's also denied ever visiting the pedophile's notorious bolt hole of Little Saint James in the US Virgin Islands, where girls were imported to be horrifically sexually abused.

He was, however, photographed in 2002 receiving a neck massage from masseuse-turned-actress Chauntae Davies, who was 22 at the time and an eventual vocal Epstein accuser.

The snap shows him smiling as a kneeling Davies massages his shoulders in an airport lounge chair during a Lolita Express refueling stop in Portugal on a foundation trip to Africa.

Maxwell was also on the flight and reportedly encouraged Davies to give Clinton the treatment after he'd complained of a stiff neck.

President Trump, who has been pictured multiple times with Epstein and his accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell, signed the Epstein Transparency Act into law on November 19, giving the DOJ a deadline of December 19 to release all files relating to the disgraced financier

Epstein kept his plane well-stocked. Mundane items such as toilet paper, water bottles and instant coffee were other reminders of the corroded and virtually worthless jet's former life

The front area of the aircraft features the bathroom

Only the best for Epstein, including pricey Voss water at the side of the bathroom sink

Pictured is the office/conference room his private aircraft

In 2020, photos emerged showing Clinton getting a neck massage from another of Epstein's accusers, Chauntae Davies, then 22, during a Lolita Express refueling stop on the 2002 Africa jaunt

There are flight records logged with the Federal Aviation Administration indicating he flew on Epstein's private jet at least 26 times (Pictured: Clinton on 'Lolita Express')

The one-time therapist  who went on to accuse Epstein of repeatedly raping her  said Clinton was a 'perfect gentleman' during the trip and she saw 'absolutely no foul play involving him'.

A fellow passenger on the Clinton Foundation mission to Africa was Oscar-winning Kevin Spacey, 65, who said there were 'young girls' on the plane.

The controversial House of Cards star, who was photographed with Maxwell on a throne at Buckingham Palace, has called for all Epstein files to be made public.

'For those of us with nothing to fear, the truth can't come soon enough,' he said.

President Trump was named as a passenger on a flight log revealed in Maxwell's 2021 trial in New York, in which she was found guilty of six counts, including sex trafficking a minor.

It shows he traveled on a two-leg trip in May 1994 with ex-wife Marla Maples and then infant daughter Tiffany to Teterboro, New Jersey.

Meanwhile, logs record the former Prince Andrew, whose public humiliation for his Epstein association was sealed earlier this month when he was stripped of his title, making four trips on the Lolita Express.

Pictured is the rear/back of Epstein's private aircraft with bathroom and shower area and what appears to be mold

The jet, which last flew in 2016, was photographed sitting abandoned at Georgias Brunswick Golden Isles Airport in 2020, with World Aviation Services later telling the Daily Mail it planned to scrap the aircraft after failing to find a buye

These include a 1999 flight from the US Virgin Islands to Palm Beach with Russian model Anna Malova, who was later jailed in the United States over prescription painkillers. The former prince has denied that he set foot on Little Saint James, in the island chain.

Epstein pilot David Rodgers claimed in a legal deposition that Andrew flew on the jet at least twice with tragic Virginia Giuffre, who alleged she was pimped out to the royal by the pedophile.

Giuffre received an estimated $16 million in a confidential settlement from Andrew in 2022, despite the royal continuing to deny her sex claims. She committed suicide in April this year at her home in Australia.
Anti-China activist Drew Pavlou was asked to leave after attempting to protest during a visit by Chinese official Chairman Zhao Leji in Brisbane over the weekend.

The incident occurred on Sunday at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Fig Tree Pocket during Zhao's four-day high-level visit. Chairman Zhao is China's third-highest-ranking official.

Pavlou said the Chinese embassy organised the visit and that busloads of government supporters were brought in to greet Chairman Zhao.

'I thought somebody had to do a small protest,' Pavlou told Sky News.

Armed with a sign reading: 'Gold Coast luxury condos for sale. Xi is very angry with you. Defect now while you still can,' Pavlou attempted to disrupt Chairman Zhao's visit.

He said police approached him about the sign and questioned its meaning.

'There's this phenomenon called Chinese Police Liaison Officers - essentially, they are members of the community deputised by Queensland Police to uphold multiculturalism,' Pavlou said.

'They wanted to assess whether my sign would be considered disrespectful to CCP leadership. Honestly, it made me think: what country am I even living in? I felt like I was under foreign occupation.'

Anti-China activist Drew Pavlou was asked to leave while attempting to protest during a visit by Chinese official Chairman Zhao Leji in Brisbane over the weekend

After a discussion, permission was ultimately granted by police for Pavlou to keep his sign, but he was restricted to an area behind supporters

Footage posted to social media showed Pavlou being approached by police.

'You coming here today to film, celebrate, whatever? You going to do any protest whatsoever?' an officer asked.

'I'm just standing in the open,' Pavlou replied.

'As long as you don't do anything silly, you're not going to be arrested or something like that, OK? As long as you don't yell, you don't swear, if you're just coming here to basically watch this crowd,' the officer added.

A liason officer then discussed the sign with her colleagues.

'Even if it's not offensive, it's still probably potentially disrespectful. It may not be right at this point for security and safety.'

After a discussion, police ultimately allowed Pavlou to keep his sign but restricted him to an area behind supporters.

'This part here is restricted for supporters,' an officer said.

A liason officer said: 'Even if it's not offensive, it's still probably potentially disrespectful. It may not be right at this point for security and safety'

Undeterred, as Chairman Zhao arrived, Pavlou climbed onto a bench and shouted: 'Mr Leji, we support you, Mr Leji, defect now before Xi comes.'

Pavlou hit back: 'That's pretty unfair. At that point, I may as well protest on the river down there.'

Undeterred, as Chairman Zhao arrived, Pavlou climbed onto a bench and shouted: 'Mr Leji, we support you! Mr Leji, defect now before Xi comes!'

CCP supporters waving large Chinese flags moved to block his view.

A police officer then grabbed Pavlou by the pants and escorted him back to his car.

Pavlou was told he had not followed instructions and was on private property.

'This is Australia, this is Brisbane. I thought I'd be able to exercise my right to speak freely as an Australian citizen - and strangely enough, these police liaison officers are trying to jostle me away to protect the honour of a visiting communist functionary.'

A spokesperson for Queensland Police Service confirmed to the Daily Mail that there are currently nine Chinese-speaking Police Liaison Officers (PLOs) across the state.

'Their role includes liaising with the community, advising police officers on the cultural beliefs, needs and protocols of the communities, identifying potential disorder problems and improving community access to policing services,' they said.

Chinese official Chairman Zhao Leji landed in Brisbane on Saturday for a high-level four day visit which included a chat with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese

'All PLOs undertake vetting and security checks prior to commencing employment, including criminal and traffic history and declarable associations.'

The spokesperson said officers have body worn camera footage of the incident and investigations were launched in relation to Pavlou's sign.

'Officers requested PLOs take pictures of the content of the sign (written in both English and Chinese) to translate the content, ensuring no offences where being committed under the hate crime legislation,' they said.

'The PLO asked the mans permission to take the photo.'
Rachel Reeves' Tory-supporting uncle has attacked his niece's Budget for 'benefits people' - declaring: 'I feel she and the government are totally out of their depth.'

Terry Smith, 73, said the country has become a 'bloody disgrace'.

The retired construction industry boss said: 'People work hard to make their lives better and all she's doing is coming back for more and more tax.'

While stressing his niece  who is clobbering the country with 26bn of tax rises - is a 'really good person', he said: 'In my opinion, this Budget was for the benefit people and I don't understand that at all.

'She says she's supporting working-class people  but how is she doing that?'

Mr Smith, of Gillingham, Kent, previously criticised the Chancellor's first tax-hiking Budget last October, saying: 'It's tax, tax, tax - that's all they've done!'

Thirteen months on, he said: 'The country is in crisis. There are many ways to get out of this, by making people better off, curbing the amount of overspend.

Rachel Reeves' lifelong Tory-supporting uncle Terry Smith may now back Nigel Farage

Classic car enthusiast Mr Smith believes Labour - and Ms Reeves - are 'out of their depth'

'I feel she and the government are totally out of their depth.

'This government is unfit to run the country. I'm hoping (they) are taken down and there is a general election.'

While praising Tory leader Kemi Badenoch's 'brilliant' Budget response, Mr Smith added: 'Nigel Farage might get in next, let's give the guy a chance.

'He doesn't put up with people who don't want to work, the waifs and strays. These problems need hard government, which we haven't got.

'At the moment, it's a bloody disgrace, it's so weak. We're going down and down.'

Mr Smith accused his niece of 'blaming the same old things' such as the war in Ukraine and Donald Trump's tariffs  and using them as a 'smokescreen' for her failure to curb ballooning government spending, on welfare and migrants.

He said: 'At the first Budget, she said there was a 22bn black hole. With 40bn of tax rises, she said that was sorted, so she wouldn't come back for more. Now, the black hole is 34bn so taxes are going up again.

'People work hard to make their lives better and all she's doing is coming back for more and more tax.

'She's doing all this (tax rises) for the backbenchers and for the likes of (Energy Secretary) Ed Miliband, (Home Secretary) Yvette Cooper, (Health Secretary) Wes Streeting and (Education Secretary) Bridget Phillipson.'

Mr Smith - who describes Margaret Thatcher as 'the greatest Prime Minister I've ever known'  went on: 'We have a socialist government turning into a Marxist government'.

Mr Smith accused his niece of breaking manifesto promises not to put up income tax or national insurance in a 'sneaky way' by continuing to freeze thresholds.

And he described higher council taxes for people with homes worth over 2m as a 'property tax for people who worked really hard'.

'If they've done all that hard work and paid all their taxes, why should they be penalised?'

Of the decision to charge National Insurance on salary sacrifice pension contributions above 2,000, Mr Smith said: 'Charging NI on pension savings which help people save for their retirement so they are not a burden on the state doesn't make any sense.'

He accused Ms Reeves and the government of 'looking after the people who don't want to work  or say they can't work' through the benefits system.

And turning to the decision to axe the two-child benefit cap, he said: 'If you can afford children, fine. If you can't afford them, don't have them.'

Mr Smith said the government should not be subsidising green energy, because 'if it doesn't make money, why do it?'.

Rachel Reeves' uncle says she is acting to appease backbenchers whilst deterring saving

The businessman said Ms Reeves' decision to cut the annual cash ISA allowance from 20,000 to 12,000 and increase tax on savings interest and property income meant 'all areas to save (up) money are being closed off'.

Meanwhile, he said private landlords sometimes take 'great risks'  but 'all this tax makes it not worth the hassle'.

He added: 'Where can people put their money? Anything you do, they want more tax.'

He called on the government to bring forward revision of business rates to target 'big warehouses 'which have to pay very little tax' instead of 'taking it out of smaller firms'.

Mr Smith also suggested 'Shell, BP and these other multinationals' should 'be hit with a bigger tax rather than poor old motorists' whose fuel duty rises in September.

And he claimed people who bought electric vehicles felt they 'have been conned'.

He said: 'In previous years, governments wanted everyone to move to having electric vehicles. Now they are charging per mile in tax. They didn't make this clear when the vehicles were sold.'

Mr Smith claimed VAT being slapped on customers using taxi apps such as Uber was 'all about helping' Hackney carriage drivers living in 'Labour-held areas'.

And he pointed out how Ms Reeves' flagship train fare freeze 'doesn't apply to railcards or advance fares'  whilst failing to cut costs such as curbing very large extra overtime payments and so-called Spanish practices where 'three people are needed to do a job one could do'.

Mr Smith also pointed out how funding for regional mayors, plus the devolved Welsh and Scottish governments was 'just to satisfy local politicians'  which will 'help the Labour party'.

He attacked the 1.8bn cost of proposed identity cards  set aside in Ms Reeves' Budget  as 'unnecessary' when 'there's already a system which works perfectly well'

He said: 'Most people have a passport or driving licence and everyone has a National Insurance number.'

Terry Smith's verdict in full on Reeves' nightmare Budget

Income tax and National Insurance:

'She has raised National Insurance and Income Tax and VAT when she said she wouldn't be coming back for any more. She said she wasn't increasing income tax for working people, she wasn't increasing NI. She's very cleverly disguised these matters.

'What she's actually doing, as wages increase, is more people go into higher tax bands. It's a sneaky way of increasing the tax.'

Salary sacrifice pension contributions

'Then you've got pensions where they're going to start charging NI. Charging NI on pension savings to help people save for their retirement so they are not a burden on the state doesn't make any sense to me.'

Council tax rise for bigger homes:

'We have this property tax for people who worked really hard and put their neck on the block so they could afford to buy higher priced properties.

'Why should they have to pay 2500 a year if their house is worth 2m or 7500 a year if their house is worth 5m? If they've done all that hard work and paid all their taxes, why should they be penalised?

Benefits and two-child benefit cap

'They are looking after the people who don't want to work  or say they can't work. I know people on benefits who say they can't work. When I ran my construction firm, I had people ask for a day off so they could go for an interview for benefits. It's a total fiddle.

'Spending 2.5-3bn on axing the two-child benefit cap: If you can afford children, fine. If you can't afford them, don't have them. I am aware of young girls who get pregnant so they don't have to work. This (change) gives them no incentive to work.'

Energy subsidy:

'I don't understand why it should cost the state. I've lived in Grimsby and Cleethorpes and it's now the wind energy capital of Europe. If it doesn't make money, why do it?'

Savings:

'The cash ISA allowance is down to 12,000 from 20,000  there's no incentive to save above that. All areas to save (up) money are being closed off. It's ridiculous.

'They're putting tax bands up 2% when normal working people are trying to be better off when they are saving or investing in other properties. Where can people put their money? The government wants to tax you wherever you put it. Anything you do, they want more tax.'

Business rates (being reevaluated next year):

'There are big warehouses owned by Amazon, all the big supermarkets, which have to pay very little tax  hit them rather than them taking it out of smaller firms.'

Fuel duty:

'They are going to put it right back up  but why can't Shell, BP and these other multinationals be hit with a bigger tax rather than poor old motorists?

'We pay a massive amount of road tax but my car's forever being knocked driving through potholes.'

Electric vehicles:

'In previous years, governments wanted everyone to move to having electric vehicles.

'They are charging EVs 3 pence per mile in tax. They didn't make this clear when the vehicles were sold. People who bought them have been conned.

'I have friends who bought EVs and now feel they are being persecuted. One does 20,000 miles. This and other taxes (VED and 'expensive car supplement') will cost him 2,000 a year. It's absolutely ridiculous.'

Train fares:

'They say they've been frozen but that doesn't apply to railcards or advance fares. Network Rail workers get double, treble time over Christmas.

'I know 5 people who have worked over Christmas and ended up being stood around drinking cups of tea, or they'll need three people to do a job one could do. There could be efficiencies.'

Landlords:

'I used to have properties and I have friends who still have. You save and invest in real estate but you take risks in doing that, which can be massive.

'Most people are not going to be paying the 22 pence tax rate, it's going to be 42p or 47p. One person I know, who lets out a lovely flat in Islington, he said 'I'm going to put it on the market. All this tax makes it not worth the hassle'.'

VAT rise on private hire taxis such as Uber:

'I use Uber and they are absolutely brilliant. You know what you are paying for the journey.

'Their taxi drivers work hard and provide a good value service. I don't use black cabs because they are too expensive. If you are sat in traffic, the costs just go up and up.

'There are a lot of Hackney carriage drivers in Labour-held areas and helping them is what this is all about.'

Library funding/ school portakabins pledge:

'She mentioned how there was a lack of libraries when she was at school but that was 30 years ago. She's got to get over that  they aren't necessary. I've children, grandchildren but I never see them in a library.

'They've laptops, electronic devices and can find out anything they want. If they want a book, they order it online.

'She also spoke about school portakabins. They are fine, they are perfect.

'They've got heating, lighting, everything you need. I have done work for schools in South London and many of their classrooms are portakabins. They work fine.'

ID cards:

'Most people have a passport or driving licence and everyone has a National Insurance number. If you want to check if someone is legal to work, you can check that. I realise they have to crack down on all these back street places but why spend more money on a new system when there's already a system which works perfectly well?'

NHS:

'I don't understand what they are doing with all the money. You can never get a doctor's appointment and have to go through a receptionist to say what you want to discuss. I remember a time when a GP would come round to your house.'
A suspected drug dealer was caught after officers drafted in a police helicopter to track him as he drove through east London.

The alleged criminal was followed near Hollybush Hill and when he got blocked in a cul-del-sac he attempted to flee on foot.

The video above shows the moment the chase ended as he was caught and arrested.
Scotland's police chief has launched a major review of grooming gang cases dating back more than a decade.

Chief Constable Jo Farrell said the exercise is aimed at looking again at unresolved allegations and carrying out fresh investigations.

She said Police Scotland is identifying child sexual exploitation crimes recorded since January 2013 involving one or more victims and two or more suspects and where the victim is under the age of 18.

The move came as John Swinney said the Scottish Governments position on a grooming inquiry will be announced before Christmas.

He said he is giving every serious consideration to this important issue amid mounting calls for a public inquiry.

At a board meeting of the Scottish Police Authority (SPA), Ms Farrell said: Following investigation, a number of these [grooming gang] crimes were reported to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service and some have resulted in criminal justice outcomes.

Others, for example in relation to reports involving young people as the offender and the victim, may have been progressed through other routes, for example the Childrens Reporter.

She said of crimes which fit the criteria mentioned and which remain unsolved, we continue to be in contact with Operation Beaconport [the grooming gangs police inquiry in England and Wales] to assist with a UK law enforcement approach.

Grooming gang survivor Fiona Goddard who quit the UK government Inquiry

Chief Constable Jo Farrell said the exercise is aimed at looking again at unresolved allegations

Ms Farrell added: Should the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service request any further investigation of matters previously reported, we will undertake those inquiries.

The move comes after Baroness Louise Casey published a separate audit on the nature and scale of group-based child sexual abuse in England and Wales in June, saying the ethnicity of people involved in grooming gangs had been shied away from by authorities.

At the SPA meeting, Ms Farrell said: As part of this work, we will develop an overview of the demographics of suspects and offenders to identify any patterns, trends or concerns.

Ms Farrell said she briefed Mr Swinney, Justice Secretary Angela Constance, Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth and other ministers on grooming gangs at the First Ministers Bute House residence in Edinburgh on Monday.

Earlier this month, Fiona Goddard, from Bradford, told how she was trafficked to Scotland by Asian men. She was raped at houses in Glasgow and Edinburgh.

Scottish Tory justice spokesman Liam Kerr said: This review from the Chief Constable reinforces the need for a grooming gangs inquiry in Scotland.

She has given a clear hint that there may be more crucial information to come to light when these appalling crimes are looked at again by the force. John Swinney should finally do the right thing and ensure an inquiry can go ahead to uncover the full truth about the scale of grooming gangs in Scotland.

Figures published this year suggest that 650 cases of child sexual exploitation have been recorded in Scotland since 2016 when the category was created on the Child Protection Register after the Rotherham scandal.

It came as the Scottish Police Authority heard that officers at the centre of the Brollygate row faced a complex inquiry.

During the spat at a rally outside the Scottish parliament in September, Susan Smith of womens right group For Women Scotland was accused of damaging an umbrella belonging to trans activist counter-protester Tom Harlow

An outcry led the force to apologise and confirm no crime was committed. Defending the officers involved, Chief Constable Jo Farrell said: I recognise our officers are having to make difficult decisions in environments which are complex and difficult to navigate.

Tory MSP Pam Gosal said: John Swinney and SNP ministers should guarantee officers will be fully focused on protecting our communities, rather than getting embroiled in rows about umbrellas.
BOSSES of Scotlands first heroin shooting gallery are to lobby the countrys top law officer to allow it to provide a crack cocaine smoking area.

The Thistle, a three-year pilot facility which provides a supervised area for injecting drugs, opened in the East End of Glasgow in January.

Managers of the 2.3million centre say an inhalation room would attract more addicts to the Scottish Government-financed clinic, run jointly by Glasgow City Council and the NHS.

Officials involved in the project say it has become evident that a smoking/inhalation space is critical in order to realise the full benefit of the centre.

Scottish Tory drugs minister Annie Wells said: Thistle bosses clearly feel emboldened by SNP ministers continued support for their flagship drug consumption room to be making this call.

John Swinney should intervene and tell Thistle bosses that his SNP government wont be given the green light to these plans. Since The Thistle opened, cocaine has been reported as accounting for 67 per cent of substances injected, with anecdotal evidence of a shift to smoking/inhalation of drugs, particularly cocaine, officials said.

Injection bay areas in the Using Space at The Thistle drugs consumption room in Glasgow

Bosses at The Thistle are now lobbying for a crack smoking area to be added to the facility

Members of the citys integration joint board (IJB)  which oversees health and social care services approved the development of a business case for an inhalation space yesterday.

It is currently not legal for the Thistle to operate a smoking room, but it is planning talks with the Scottish Government over amending regulations to define the Thistle as an exempt service.

A report to the IJB states if a smoking/inhalation room is added then the statement of prosecution policy may need to be amended.

It adds: This would require further liaison with the Crown Office and formal communication with the Lord Advocate.

In response to a recent Scottish Affairs Committee report, the UK Government said it does not support drug consumption rooms or expansion of facilities at The Thistle to enable users to inhale drugs.

It added: The Scottish Government has stated that in order to supply such equipment, Glasgow City Health and Social Care Partnership would need to apply to the Lord Advocate for the necessary exemptions; how to respond to such a request would be a matter for the Lord Advocate.

Legal issues, costs, staffing and the best location for the space would be explored during the development of the business case.

A room for smoking drugs was initially dropped due to potential delays while legal issues were explored as well as extra costs and ventilation requirements.

Bosses at the facility will lobby Lord Advocate Dorothy Bain to allow it to provide a crack cocaine smoking area

The IJB report states recent overdose clusters in Glasgow have been linked to increased smoking/inhalation of crack cocaine contaminated with other substances, while cocaine was implicated in 52 per cent of drug-related deaths in Glasgow last year.

Officials add that feedback has highlighted the lack of inhalation spaces as the main barrier to using the service.

The report continued: The creation of a smoking/inhalation space would enable staff to encourage clients to transition from injection to smoking.

The plan has sparked anger at a time when thousands of patients are languishing on waiting lists for diagnosis and treatment.

Dr Neil McKeganey of the Centre for Substance Use Research has said previously that the proposal to extend Glasgows so-called safe injecting site to enable users to inhale cocaine in the absence of any data showing that the centre is succeeding in reducing Scotlands drug death toll is little short of utter recklessness.

A Crown Office spokesman said: The Lord Advocate would consider any request to extend the pilot schemes statement of prosecution policy.
A former worker at the World Trade Center who narrowly escaped the atrocities of 9/11 was beaten to death by a group of teenagers, police said.

Roger Borkum, 64, was found severely injured on October 19 in the downtown area of Jacksonville, Florida.

According to arrest report seen by the Daily Mail, Borkum, who was homeless at the time, was attacked by three teenagers on three separate occasions that night.

After the third violent attack, the teens are accused of fleeing the scene on foot with Borkum being found by a witness, he died four days later from his injuries.

Marcavion Lacey, 19, Robert Pope, 16, and Justin Curry, 13, have all been charged with his murder. According to the report Curry was 12 at the time of Borkum's death.

An obituary for Borkum, who is originally from Long Island, New York, said he worked on the 77th floor of tower one in a consulting position.

It said he 'narrowly escaped death' after his job ended in July 2001, as all of his colleagues died in the attacks on the World Trade Center that September.

According to the report, Borkum was found with a 'large amount of blood pooled near his head, with blood also trailing the sidewalk' last month.

Roger Borkum, 64, was found severely injured on October 19 in the downtown area of Jacksonville, Florida

Borkum was allegedly attacked by three teenagers on three separate occasions that night. The oldest was 19-year-old Marcavion Lacey (pictured)

Robert Pope, 16, was another one of Borkum's alleged assailants. He and the other two teens were charged with Borkum's murder

The youngest of Borkum's alleged attackers was Justin Curry, 13. He was just 12 years old at the time of the savage beating

The report said that his attackers were spotted 'rummaging' through his backpack at one time.

One of the suspects is said to have blamed the attack on Borkum, claiming he 'dissed' their 'dead homies.'

The report also added that Borkum's death was ruled to have been from blunt force trauma.

His sister Deborah told the Florida Times-Union: 'Although we don't know what transpired in Roger's life that caused him to be homeless, we'll always remember him to be a man of integrity and a great work ethic.

'He was a soft spoken man who cared for everyone he ever met. He is missed greatly.'

An online obituary said that Borkum lost his wife Celeste in 2009 while on a humanitarian visit to Africa, without giving further details.

In a statement, the State Attorney's Office said: 'The juvenile justice system is neither designed nor equipped to handle offenders or offenses of this magnitude.

'In Juvenile Court, the State must relinquish its authority to the Department of Juvenile Justice, where the available sanctions fall far short of those permitted in Circuit Court - and far short of what is necessary for this crime.

'By handling this case in Circuit Court, we ensure that it receives the level of accountability, supervision, and judicial oversight that the facts and law demand.'

One of the suspects is said to have blamed the attack on Borkum, claiming he 'dissed' their 'dead homies'

Borkum's sister, Deborah, said: 'We'll always remember him to be a man of integrity and a great work ethic'

In a statement, the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office said: 'On Sunday, October 19, 2025, District 1 patrol officers responded to an aggravated battery and discovered Roger Borkum had been severely beaten.

'He was taken to a local hospital where he died from his injuries four days later.

'A witness who saw the attack provided officers with descriptions of the three young suspects, allowing police to locate them within hours.

'Following a thorough investigation by JSO's Homicide Unit detectives, in partnership with the State Attorneys Office, the suspects were identified as 13-year-old Justin Curry, 16-year-old Robert Pope, and 19-year-old Marcavion Lacey. Curry was just 12 years old the night of the attack.

'Pope and Lacey were arrested shortly after Borkums death. On Thursday, November 20, 2025, a Duval County grand jury indicted Curry. All three teens are charged with murder.'
The immigrant accused of shooting two National Guard troops in Washington D.C. had 'suffered mental issues' after his years of fighting in a CIA-backed military unit during the conflict in Afghanistan.

Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, is in custody after the horror shootout just 800 yards from the White House on Wednesday afternoon, which left two one West Virginian soldier dead and another battling critical injuries.

He arrived in America in 2021 as part of the disastrous US withdrawal in Afghanistan after serving as an ally of Special Forces troops in his CIA-backed 'Zero Unit.' Lakanwal applied for asylum in 2024 after his temporary visa lapsed, and in April 2025, it was granted by the Trump administration.

Now, a longtime friend has shared details about his mental health battle struggling with the horrors he saw and violence he carried out as part of his duty within the unit.

'When he saw blood, bodies, and the wounded, he could not tolerate it,' the childhood friend told The New York Times.

'It put a lot of pressure on his mind.'

The father-of-five was part of the elite paramilitary outfit which engaged in combat with the Taliban during the war in Afghanistan, often referred to as a 'death squad.'

While his role within the unit is not clear, his taskforce was often linked to night raids, covert operations and was suspected of carrying out executions.

Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, is in custody after the horror shootout just 800 yards from the White House on Wednesday afternoon

The shooting left two young West Virginian soldiers with critical injuries

'He would tell me and our friends that their military operations were very tough, their job was very difficult, and they were under a lot of pressure,' the friend said.

Hours after his identity was made public on Wednesday night, CIA Director John Ratcliffe sensationally admitted Lakanwal was known to his agency and had worked with the team.

He told Fox News that his involvement was 'as a member of a partner force in Kandahar, which ended shortly following the chaotic evacuation.'

He echoed comments made hours earlier by Trump that the former administration's 'disastrous' actions during the withdrawal allowed unvetted foreigners to enter the US on temporary visas.

'The Biden administration justified bringing the alleged shooter to the United States in September 2021 due to his prior work with the US government, including the CIA,' Ratcliffe said.

'The individual - and so many others - should have never been allowed to come here,' he added.

'Our citizens and service members deserve far better than to endure the ongoing fallout from the Biden administration's catastrophic failures.'

But it later emerged the Trump administration was actually the authority who granted Lakanwal permission to stay in the US.

Sarah Beckstrom's father, Gary Beckstrom, said his daughter will not survive injuries she sustained from being shot while on duty in Washington, DC

Andrew Wolfe was shot alongside Beckstrom in Washington, DC on Wednesday

The Biden administration initially allowed Lakanwal into the US in September 2021 as a refugee under Operation Allies Welcome.

But his visa expired and in 2024 he applied for asylum, which was granted by the Trump administration in April 2025.

A White House official told the Daily Mail that Lakanwal would not have been removed from the country because of his parole status.

'This Afghan national was paroled into the US by the Biden Admin,' the White House official said.

'After that, Joe Biden signed into law that parole program, and entered into the 2023 Ahmed Court Settlement, which bound USCIS to adjudicate his asylum claim on an expedited bases. Regardless of asylum status, this monster would not have been removed due to his parole status, granted by Joe Biden.'

The Trump administration regularly defy court orders and prior Congressional statutes.

On Thursday night, Trump announced he would 'permanently pause migration' from third world countries and ordered a green card audit of 19 nations in response to the attack.

He also vowed to end all federal benefits for noncitizens, denaturalize migrants who undermine the U.S., and deport any foreign nationals deemed a security risk or 'non-compatible with Western Civilization.'

'I will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the U.S. system to fully recover,' he wrote on Truth Social.

'Only REVERSE MIGRATION can fully cure this situation. Other than that, HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL, except those that hate, steal, murder, and destroy everything that America stands for - You wont be here for long!'

The suspect had been relocated from Afghanistan to Bellingham, Washington state. Police allege he drove across the country from his home, where he lived with his wife and five children near the Canadian border.

Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and Andrew Wolfe, 24, were left in critical condition after undergoing surgery. The soldiers were shot by a .357 Smith and Wesson revolver.

On Thursday night, Trump confirmed that Beckstrom had tragically died from her injuries.

Officials said at the Thursday press conference that Lakanwal drove across the country from his home in Bellingham, Washington, to DC before he fired at the troops on Wednesday afternoon with a .357 revolver

Trump said the American people are filled with 'righteous anger and enormous resolve' as he slammed Biden for allowing the suspect to reside in the United States

Late on Wednesday night, CIA Director John Ratcliffe sensationally revealed Rahmanullah Lakanwal had direct links to the CIA from his work alongside US Special Forces in Afghanistan

'Just seconds before I went on, right now, I heard that Sarah Beckstrom of West Virginia, one of the guardsmen that we were talking about, highly respected, young, magnificent person... outstanding in every way, she's just passed away,' he said.

'She's no longer with us. She's looking down on us right now. Her parents are with her. It's just happened. She was savagely attacked, she's dead.'

Trump went on to say Beckstrom was 'an incredible person. Outstanding in every single way, department.

'Just horrible,' he added.

Beckstrom's devastated father Gary revealed earlier on Thursday that she would not survive her injuries.

'She has a mortal wound, it's not going to be a recovery,' he said from her bedside. 'I'm holding her hand right now.'

US Attorney Jeanine Pirro's notes during a Thursday briefing mentioned the suspected shooter yelled 'allahu akbar' before the attack.
Labour is under pressure to ditch Angela Rayner's 'job killing' workers' rights agenda after watering down her controversial plan for day one employment rights.

In a humiliating U-turn, the government last night announced it was dropping Ms Rayner's plan to give people the right to sue their employer for unfair dismissal on their first day in the job.

The right had been a key Labour manifesto pledge and Left-wingers last night accused the government of a 'sellout'.

But employers had warned the move would become a shirkers' charter and destroy opportunities for young people trying to get their first job.

Ministers were also locked in a standoff with the House of Lords, where opposition peers were delaying the entire Employment Rights Bill over the issue.

The U-turn comes just days after Downing Street said it would resist all attempts to water down the plan.

Culture secretary Lisa Nandy said the 'compromise' brokered at secret talks with business and union leaders, would enable the legislation to pass. Day one rights to sick pay will still go ahead.

'We've reached a compromise,' she said. 'Will it please everybody? No, it won't. But when you put this package together, getting this onto the statute book has been long overdue and will make a massive difference to people across the country.'

The decision to water down day one rights is a blow to Angela Rayner, who had championed the controversial plan as Deputy PM

Shadow business secretary Andrew Griffith urged the PM to 'grow a backbone' and dump the entire Employment Rights Bill

But ministers are now facing calls to ditch the entire Employment Rights Bill, which the government's own assessment found will saddle firms with an extra 5 billion a year in red tape.

Shadow business secretary Andrew Griffith said: 'Shadow Business Secretary, Andrew Griffith, said: 'This humiliating U-turn on a Labour flagship bill is a Conservative victory and will give some relief to business.

'But this is just one element of this rushed 330-page, job-killing legislation. It doesn't change the fact the Bill is still not fit-for-purpose, nor does it change the fact it will give unions the 'Right to Roam', ban banter in pubs, or end flexible working.

'Keir Starmer must grow a backbone, stand up to his union paymasters and ditch every single job-destroying anti-growth measure in the employment rights bill now.

'Only the Conservatives will stand up for business and jobs to deliver a stronger economy.'

Senior business figures echoed the call for the legislation to be scrapped and said it was time for Labour to get serious about growth.

Entrepreneur Luke Johnson, former chairman of Gail's Bakery said the decision was 'good news as far as it goes, but added: 'The entire bill is bad for jobs, investment and living standards and it should be entirely scrapped.'

Alex Hall-Chen, of the Institute of Directors, said: 'Time and time again business leaders have told us that day one protections against unfair dismissal would increase the cost of employment and disincentivise hiring. The government's climbdown will give employers the confidence that they can correct hiring mistakes without risking lengthy and expensive tribunal cases.

'Whilst this change represents significant progress for employers, we continue to have concerns about other measures in the Bill, particularly around guaranteed hours, trade union recognition, and industrial action thresholds.'

CBI chief Rain Newton-Smith urged ministers to water down the workers' rights charter this week

However, the decision also triggered a Labour revolt last night.

Former shadow chancellor John McDonnell branded the decision a 'sellout', adding: 'If it's unfair to sack someone, it's unfair whenever it occurs whether it's day one or after 6 months. The principle is fairness.

Ms Rayner declined to comment.

But Labour MP Justin Madders, who is a close ally of the former deputy PM, said the decision to axe a key manifesto commitment was a 'very serious matter'.

He added: 'We will need a great deal of convincing that this is the right thing to do.'

Unite union boss Sharon Graham said the legislation was now 'a shell of its former self'. She added: 'With fire and rehire and zero hours contracts not being banned, the Bill is already unrecognisable.

'These constant row backs will only damage workers' confidence that the protections promised will be worth the wait. Labour needs to keep its promises.'

Workers will not now get the right to claim unfair dismissal until they have been in a job for at least six months. The period is shorter than the current two years, but is designed to ease fears among employers that the day one plan would have made them a target for vexatious claims from staff who have only just started.

Ministers have also agreed that the new six-month entitlement can only be reduced in future by primary legislation.

CBI chief rain Newton-Smith described the legislation this week as 'disappointing and damaging' and accused ministers of ignoring employers' concerns.

'Business is not just a resource to be taxed when the going gets tough. They are the ones creating jobs, building opportunities, lifting living standards and driving real change in communities,' she said.

Business secretary Peter Kyle came under fire over the issue at this week's CBI conference and hinted at a potential climb down.

No 10 ruled out any concessions on Monday, saying the Prime Minister would resist all attempts to water down the Employment Rights Bill in the House of Lords.

The PM's spokesman said: 'The Employment Rights Bill is good for workers, good for businesses, and good for the economy.

'We will overturn all attempts to scupper our plans, including watering down day one protection from unfair dismissal and limiting the ban on exploitative zero hours contracts.'

A spokesman for the Department for Business and Trade said ministers had brokered talks between employers and unions in recent days to reach the compromise.

The spokesman said day one rights to sick pay and paternity leave would still be introduced in April next year. But the right to claim unfair dismissal from the first day of employment has been dropped.

The spokesman said: 'Reforms to benefit millions of working people, including some of the lowest paid workers, would otherwise be significantly delayed if the Bill does not reach Royal Assent in line with our delivery timetable. Businesses too need time to prepare for what are a series of significant changes.'

Business leaders have savaged the Employment Rights Bill, which the government's own assessment shows will cost firms 5billion a year in extra red tape. But the right to claim unfair dismissal has been the biggest single bone of contention.
The assistant principal of a Virginia high school and his brother have been arrested over an alleged plot to kill Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents.

John Wilson Bennett, 54, and Mark Booth Bennett, 59, were detained at separate locations on November 19 after authorities uncovered the alleged plan.

The Department of Homeland Security said in a statement an off-duty police officer from Norfolk, Virginia, overheard the duo discussing plans to 'kill police officers and ICE agents' while dining at a local restaurant.

An investigation was launched on November 17 after Mark Bennett 'was overheard saying he was planning to meet with likeminded individuals in Las Vegas, Nevada, to purchase firearms with explosive rounds to carry out the attacks.'

Mark was arrested at the Norfolk International Airport where 'he was scheduled to depart on a flight to Charlotte, North Carolina, en route to Las Vegas,' DHS said.

Meanwhile, John was arrested in Virginia beach, where he has worked as assistant principal of Kempsville High School since 2009.

Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin described the plot as 'chilling.'

'It's chilling that a human being, much less a child educator, would plot to ambush and kill ICE law enforcement officers,' she said.

John Wilson Bennett (pictured) has been charged with conspiracy to commit malicious wounding

Mark Booth Bennett (pictured) was arrested at the Norfolk International Airport

She added that the duo offered 'such specifics as to getting a high caliber rifle that would pierce the law enforcements' bullet proof vests.'

McLaughlin noted officers are 'facing a more than 1,150 percent increase in assaults against them and an 8,000 percent increase in death threats.

'They risk their lives every single day to remove the worst of the worst including murderers, rapists, pedophiles, terrorists, and gang members.

'From bounties placed on their heads for their murders, threats to their families, stalking, and doxxing online, our officers are experiencing an unprecedented level of violence and threats against them and their families.'

Both men have been charged with conspiracy to commit malicious wounding.

According to a criminal complaint seen by WTKR, Mark allegedly told his brother he had purchased an assault rifle which 'utilizes the explosive rounds that are needed to penetrate the vests' worn by ICE agents.

John allegedly laughed and expressed an interest in 'going hunting' with his older brother.

Kempsville High School allegedly placed the assistant principal on leave after his arrest.

John has worked as assistant principal of Kempsville High School since 2009

Kempsville High School allegedly placed the assistant principal on leave after his arrest. he's seen in a photo on the school website

Daily Mail has contacted the school for comment.

Earlier this month, Border Patrol agents were shot at by an unidentified man in Chicago during a routine operation, according to the Department of Homeland Security.

Officials said officers were fired upon by an unknown male behind the wheel of a black Jeep who fled the scene.

'Over the past two months, we've seen an increase in assaults and obstruction targeting federal law enforcement during operations,' DHS said at the time.

'These confrontations highlight the dangers our agents face daily and the escalating aggression toward law enforcement. The violence must end.'
Karoline Leavitt has shared a touching tribute to her mom while offering a behind-the-scenes glance at her family's Thanksgiving after Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents detained her nephew's Brazilian mother.

The White House press secretary shared a series of happy snaps and short videos to her Instagram on Thursday, documenting her efforts ahead of the celebration.

She revealed she was using her mother's stuffing recipe for her sit down dinner, and shared a snap of her pumpkin themed coffee mug in the kitchen.

'I'll be here all day - my happy place,' she wrote, alongside an emoji of a chef.

The glimpse at how the Leavitt family is spending Thanksgiving comes just days after it emerged her nephew's mother, Bruna Ferreira, had been picked up by ICE and was languishing in a southern Louisiana detention facility.

Ferreira was picked up by authorities in Revere, Massachusetts, earlier this month while trying to collect her 11-year-old son, Michael Leavitt Jr.

The little boy's father is Leavitt's brother, Michael Sr.

Her lawyer said she had arrived in 1998 and remained in the US under the federally protected Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. She was in the process of getting her residency.

Karoline Leavitt has offered a behind-the-scenes glance at her family's Thanksgiving

She revealed she was using her mother's stuffing recipe for her sit down dinner

The White House press secretary shared a series of happy snaps and short videos to her Instagram on Thursday, documenting her efforts ahead of the celebration

Michael Sr said in a statement that the 11-year-old lives with him and his wife full-time, but has always maintained a relationship with his biological mother.

He told WBUR his 'only concern has always been the safety, well-being, and privacy of [his] son.'

Michael Sr said the little boy has not had an opportunity to speak with his mom since she was first detained by ICE 'several weeks ago.'

Ferreira's sister Graziela Dos Santos Rodrigues, 27, told The Boston Globe that Ferreira had desperately tried to tell ICE agents of her relationship to Leavitt at the time of her arrest.

'They were not the most gentle with her,' she said of the agents, who swarmed her car after Ferreira drove from Massachusetts to New Hampshire to pick up Michael.

'I'm sure my sister was terrified, frantic. She's been here since she was six years old. She's more American than she is anything else.

'I'm sure she tried to just use whatever she could come up with in the moment. However, it didn't really help very much.'

Rodrigues - who launched a GoFundMe to support her sister - claims that both Michael Sr and his father, Bob Leavitt, had little advice for Ferreira after her arrest.

Ferreira shares a child with Leavitt's brother, Michael (pictured together)

Ferreira had desperately tried to tell ICE agents of her relationship to Leavitt at the time of her arrest

It comes just days after it emerged her nephew's mother, Bruna Ferreira (pictured), had been picked up by ICE and was languishing in a southern Louisiana detention facility

'They just kept saying, 'Tell her to self-deport.' Self-deport to where? Brazil is not her home.'

Rodrigues also said Wednesday that Leavitt has not reached out to help.

'If she were to help in any way, if she were willing to do anything to help us, she would have reached out by now. She has my phone number,' Rodrigues said.

A source familiar with the family dynamic told the Daily Mail that Leavitt has not spoken with her nephew's mother in many years.

'This individual is the mother of Karoline's nephew and they have not spoken in many years,' the insider said.

'The child has lived full-time in New Hampshire with his father since he was born. He has never resided with his mother.'

The Department of Homeland Security told the Daily Mail that Ferreira is a 'criminal illegal alien' who 'has a previous arrest for battery.'

The spokesman added: 'She entered the US on a B2 tourist visa that required her to depart the US by June 6, 1999.'

She shared a snap of her pumpkin themed coffee mug in the kitchen. 'I'll be here all day - my happy place,' she wrote, alongside an emoji of a chef

Leavitt showed her family's set up for Thanksgiving, and her husband carving the turkey

'Under President Trump and Secretary Noem, all individuals unlawfully present in the United States are subject to deportation.'

Todd Pomerleau, an attorney representing Ferreira, said she was totally blindsided by her arrest and railed against DHS's allegations about her supposed criminal charge.

'Bruna has no criminal record whatsoever,' Pomerleau said.

'I don't know where that is coming from. Show us the proof. There's no charges out there. She's not a criminal illegal alien.

'She's in the process of actually getting her residency and she was abruptly arrested and taken from her young child right before Thanksgiving.'
Attorney General Pam Bondi erupted in fury on Thanksgiving, unleashing a blistering rebuke of what she called 'progressive left idiots' after two National Guard members were gunned down in a brazen ambush just blocks from the White House.

Bondi vowed Thursday morning that the accused shooter would face the death penalty if the wounded troops do not survive Wednesday's 'terror attack.'

Sadly, on Thursday evening President Trump announced 20-year-old Specialist Sarah Beckstrom had died from her wounds.

Bondi delivered the emotional on-air broadside during a live appearance on Fox & Friends following the shooting of both Beckstrom and Staff Sgt Andrew Wolfe, 24, both of the West Virginia National Guard.

Wolfe remains in hospital in critical condition.

'We are evaluating everything,' Bondi told Fox host Emily Compagno. 'Everyone has been up all night since it happened, evaluating everything regarding this monster - the president's right, he is a monster - who did this.'

The most explosive moment came after Bondi was asked to respond to Democratic criticism of the National Guard deployment - including warnings that troops could be used against American civilians.

'What these lawmakers are doing and what some of these news anchors on other networks are doing, what their guests are saying is disgusting and despicable,' she said.

Attorney General Pam Bondi, left, erupted in fury on Thanksgiving morning during an interview with Fox & Friends

National Guard members, Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe and Specialist Sarah Beckstrom were shot. Beckstrom later died from her injuries on Thursday afternoon

Afghan soldier Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, was named as the alleged gunman

'But it's actually sad what our country has come to with these progressive left idiots who are doing this and saying this about our heroes who are keeping them safe.

'And some of the people who are saying this have security details to keep them safe. It's unbelievable to me.'

Bondi tied the tragedy directly to what she described as government failures and border security breakdowns.

'We have looked, Emily, at failed policies of Biden from autopenning violent felons being taken off death row to letting people into our country without proper vetting after the entire Afghanistan debacle, and it has been tremendously horrible for these young people's families who were going through this,' Bondi said.

'Right now, we will base our charges on their prognosis. If something happens, I will tell you right now. I will tell you early, we will do everything in our power to seek the death penalty against that monster, who should not have been in our country.'

Bondi was visibly upset as she choked back tears as she revealed how Beckstrom, had volunteered for duty so others could go home for the holiday.

'She volunteered to be there on Thanksgiving working today. She volunteered, as did many of those guardsmen and women, so other people could be home with their families,' Bondi said.

When asked what the maximum charges could be, Bondi said the legal outcome hinges on whether the two victims survive their injuries.

Emergency personnel are seen gathering in a cordoned off area where National Guard soldiers were shot near the White House on Wednesday in Washington DC

Streets are blocked after two National Guard soldiers were shot near the White House

'Worst-case scenario minimum life in prison with terrorism charges,' she said.

'And again, it's still a very active open investigation ATF has been involved analyzing the gun. They are moving at light speed to make sure justice is served because these men and women out there on the streets every day are our heroes.'

She confirmed that the suspect entered the US in 2021, and that the national security division of the Justice Department, the FBI, the ATF, and federal agencies across the government are now part of what she called a full-scale national investigation.

The gunman has been identified by US Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, an Afghan national who came to the US during the Biden administration's Operation Allies Welcome evacuation program.

Pirro said the suspect launched an 'ambush-style' attack with a .357 Smith & Wesson revolver and currently faces charges of assault with intent to kill while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence.

'It's too soon to say what the suspect's motives were,' Pirro said, adding: 'We are praying that they survive and that the highest charge will not have to be murder in the first degree. But make no mistake, if they do not, that will certainly be the charge.'

FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed the case is now being treated as terrorism, calling it a 'coast-to-coast investigation.'

Lakanwal previously worked in a CIA-backed Afghan Army 'Zero Unit' and entered the United States in 2021 during the chaotic US withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Officials said at the Thursday press conference that Lakanwal drove across the country from his home in Bellingham, Washington, to DC before he fired at the troops on Wednesday afternoon with a .357 revolver

Bondi was visibly upset as she choked back tears as she revealed how specialist Sarah Beckstrom, had volunteered for duty so others could go home for the holiday

President Donald Trump ordered 500 additional National Guard troops into Washington after the attack

CIA Director John Ratcliffe confirmed in a statement that Lakanwal's relationship with the US government 'ended shortly following the chaotic evacuation.'

Lakanwal later settled in Bellingham, Washington State, with his wife and five children, according to his former landlord Kristina Widman.

Following the attack, President Donald Trump ordered 500 additional National Guard troops into Washington.

Bondi said Trump was in constant communication as the crisis unfolded.

'President Trump and I were talking all day yesterday,' she said. 'We will not be taken down by this. We will not be threatened. We will not be intimidated as a country.'

Trump later issued a video statement calling for a reinvestigation of all Afghan evacuees.

'If they can't love our country, we don't want them,' Trump said, calling the shooting 'a crime against our entire nation.'
The Trump administration is to launch a sweeping immigration security review that could impact tens of thousands of legal residents, ordering every green card issued to immigrants from 19 'countries of concern' to be reexamined.

Federal officials describe it as a 'full scale, rigorous' process and a dramatic escalation triggered by the attempted assassination-style shooting of two National Guard members in Washington, one of whom died on Thursday evening.

The order was announced publicly by Joseph B. Edlow, director of United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, who said the move had come directly from President Donald Trump.

'At the direction of @POTUS, I have directed a full scale, rigorous reexamination of every Green Card for every alien from every country of concern,' Edlow wrote.

In a follow-up message, he underscored the administration's position.

'The protection of this country and of the American people remains paramount, and the American people will not bear the cost of the prior administration's reckless resettlement policies. American safety is non negotiable.'

Federal officials pointed to a June presidential proclamation that identifies the 19 nations now subject to the review.

The 'countries of concern' are: Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen, Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela.

Trump announced Beckstrom's death on Thursday night, describing her as an 'incredible person' and 'outstanding in every way'

Nationals of Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen, Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela will have their Green Cards reexamined

Your browser does not support iframes.

While the administration has not stated how many green card holders could be affected, the order is one of the most aggressive retroactive immigration screening actions ever undertaken by a sitting administration.

At the same time as the USCIS green card review, the Department of Homeland Security confirmed it is now re-examining all asylum cases approved under the Biden administration, dramatically widening the scope.

The combined actions effectively place two of the largest immigration legal pathways of the last decade - asylum and Afghan humanitarian resettlement - under retroactive federal review.

Following Wednesday's attack, Trump released a video message calling for a fresh investigation of every Afghan refugee admitted to the United States during the post-withdrawal evacuation.

'If they can't love our country, we don't want them,' Trump said, adding that the shooting was 'a crime against our entire nation.'

Trump also attacked Somali refugees in Minnesota, saying they were 'ripping apart that once-great state,' as part of his broader pledge to deport those in the country illegally and suspend most refugee admissions.

The president has said he intends to remove anyone 'who does not belong here or does not add benefit to our country.'

The order was announced publicly by Joseph B Edlow, director of United States Citizenship and Immigration Services

National Guard members, Staff Sgt Andrew Wolfe and Specialist Sarah Beckstrom were shot. Beckstrom later died from her injuries on Thursday

Members of law enforcement, including the US Secret Service and the Washington Metropolitan Police Department, secure the scene following a shooting near the White House

Afghan soldier Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, was named as the alleged gunman

The announcement surrounding green card review came within hours of an act of violence in the nation's capital, where two West Virginia National Guard members were ambushed.

Sadly, on Thursday evening President Trump announced 20-year-old Specialist Sarah Beckstrom had died from her wounds after being shot in the 'terror attack.'

He colleague, Staff Sgt Andrew Wolfe, 24, remains in critical condition in hospital.

The accused gunman was identified by authorities as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national who entered the United States in 2021 during the mass evacuation following the collapse of the US-backed Afghan government.

The shooting is now being investigated as an act of terrorism, according to federal officials.

Lakanwal was one of roughly 76,000 Afghans brought into the United States under Operation Allies Welcome, the emergency resettlement initiative launched after the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan during the chaotic US withdrawal.

The program was designed to extract interpreters, fighters, drivers, and others who had assisted the US mission during 20 years of war.

It was overseen by then-President Joe Biden, who said the United States owed those Afghans protection.

But critics, including Trump and congressional Republicans, warned from the outset that the evacuation was rushed and dangerously under-vetted.

'This individual - and so many others - should have never been allowed to come here. Our citizens and servicemembers deserve far better than to endure the ongoing fallout from the Biden Administration's catastrophic failures,' said John Ratcliffe, the CIA director.

Ratcliffe also confirmed Lakanwal's past connection to US intelligence.

'Lakanwal worked with the CIA as a member of a partner force in Kandahar,' Ratcliffe said, without detailing his exact duties.

The Kandahar region, located deep in southern Afghanistan, served as a Taliban stronghold and saw brutal fighting between NATO forces and insurgents after the September 11 attacks.

The CIA relied heavily on Afghan operatives for translation, logistics, and frontline combat support.

Little is publicly known about Lakanwal's four years in the United States.

A former landlord said he lived in Bellingham, Washington, with his wife and five children.

Authorities have not disclosed what prompted him to drive across the country to Washington before the shooting.

Officials said at the Thursday press conference that Lakanwal drove across the country from his home in Bellingham, Washington, to DC before he fired at the troops on Wednesday afternoon with a .357 revolver

The Trump administration is to launch a sweeping immigration security review of green cards issued to immigrants from 19 'countries of concern'

According to #AfghanEvac, Lakanwal's asylum was approved in April under the Trump administration, after undergoing fingerprinting, iris scans, background checks, interviews, and formal risk assessments required of all asylum applicants.

A US official told CNN the suspect was 'clean on all checks' both before working with the US government and again before entering the country.

Humanitarian and veteran-led groups involved in Afghan resettlement warned against using the alleged actions of one man to condemn an entire population of evacuees.

'I don't want people to leverage this tragedy into a political ploy,' said Shawn VanDiver, president of #AfghanEvac.
A Sydney high school student is set to to take the Albanese government all the way to the High Court over its social media ban, just two weeks before its enforced.

Noah Jones, 15, said the ban, which blocks children under the age of 16 from Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, X, and YouTube, is doomed to fail.

'As a free Australian I should be able to express myself and in the modern world, that's online through social media,' Noah told the Daily Mail.

'Kids will still use social media but in secret and they are (in) more danger by being scared of getting into trouble for using socials after the ban so they won't report bullies or predators.

'Nearly everyone I know intends to get around the ban but not tell their parents.'

Noah, who turns 16 next August, said his friends were planning to bypass the age restrictions by making fake profiles on other platforms.

He also said he was 'very confident' in the success of the high court challenge.

'The High Court know it's so important that the government shouldn't stop my right to democracy. Democracy doesn't start at 16 on your birthday,' he said.

Ironically, Noah learned about the impending ban on social media, pictured with mum Renee

'The problem is with (teens using fake profiles), if they're being secretive about it, they can't report anyone or say something to parents or police because they weren't supposed to be on the platform in the first place, so they're at more risk,' he said.

Noah has been named along with fellow 15-year-old Macy Neyland as the two plaintiffs in the case filed by NSW Libertarian MP John Ruddick on Wednesday.

Noah's mum, Renee Jones, said the government should work with platforms to crack down on unsafe online content, rather than removing children from the digital space.

'We have deliberately raised these children to be digitally aware,' Ms Jones, a former primary school teacher who now works in family law, told Daily Mail on Friday.

'I've heard Noah and his friends talk about, 'Why are we being punished? We're not the ones doing the wrong thing?'

'This is not a family who doesn't recognise the horror of parts of the online world... Noah knows what needs to be reported, he talks to his friends about it, and that was the kind of reform I needed from my government, rather than cast them out.'

Ms Jones warned children will 'go secretive if they believe they'll get in trouble.'

'Who is their safe person to tell if they are approached by a predator online and they weren't supposed to be there? They will not tell us,' she said.

NSW Libertarian MP John Ruddick (pictured) filed the court action on Wednesday

Communications Minister Anika Wells said the Federal Government is holding firm on the ban

'My dream is for Australian kids to make predators tremble. I want an eSafety Commissioner who is so fierce and so bold in the protection of our kids that she engages with these technology giants.

'The legislation is so lazy and I'm profoundly disappointed.'

The court action, which was filed via Ruddick's organisation, Digital Freedom Project, argues the ban will rob 2.6million young people of their constitutionally implied right to freedom of political communication.

The federal government, Communications Minister Anika Wells and the eSafety commissioner have all been named as respondents in the case.

The group hopes to win an injunction that would delay the law from coming into effect, with a court date set to be scheduled in the next few days.

Ms Jones said she is 'incredibly confident' the case will be upheld in the High Court.

'The constitution does not let the government shut down political communication just because these Australians are young,' she said. 'They have a right to that discourse.'

Under the ban, social media platforms can accept ID as one form of age check, but its not allowed to be the sole method of identification.

Currently, children under the age of 16 will be kicked off the platforms on December 10

Both Meta and Snap Inc, which runs the popular app Snapchat, said they will use ID checks as a fallback option.

It comes as reports suggest that teens are finding ways around the ban as obscure social media apps start to appear in Australia's AppStore charts.

According to analytics platform Sensor Tower, a largely unknown group chat platform called Yope is the top app in the charts, indicating a spike in downloads.

This, coinciding with videos circulating online that promote similar apps to the ones on the banned list, suggest teens could be getting ready to jump ship.

'So we all using this Yope app for the ban,' one TikTok user said this week.

'Lemon 8 is the (TikTok) replacement and Yope is (Snapchat) replacement,' another wrote in the comments of the video.

The communications minister responded to the legal challenge in parliament this week, saying she and her government would be standing firm.

'Despite the fact that we are receiving threats and legal challenges by people with ulterior motives, the Albanese Labor government remains steadfastly on the side of parents, and not of platforms,' Wells said.

'We will not be intimidated by threats. We will not be intimidated by legal challenges.

'We will not be intimidated by big tech on the behalf of Australian parents.

'We stand firm.'
A mum who mowed down a 12-year-old girl on a pedestrian crossing told a court she initially thought she had run over a 'musical instrument'.

Alexis Lloyd was hit by a car at a pedestrian crossing outside Willetton Senior High School in Perth about 8.30am on June 26, 2023.

The schoolgirl, who was in Year 7 at the time, suffered a broken leg and collarbone, and spent weeks in a wheelchair recovering from surgery.

Two years later, Tahira Shaheen, 52, was sentenced to jail for a total of 16 months with eligibility for parole after eight months.

The District Court of WA heard the learner driver was taking her son to school when she hit the schoolgirl.

She had been driving unsupervised and was not displaying her L plates at the time.

'I didn't tell anyone. I was embarrassed because my child goes to Willetton Senior High School,' she told the court, as reported by 9News.

The court heard Shaheen's son came home and said a student had been hit by a car.

Tahira Shaheen (pictured) has been sentenced to jail for a total of 16 months after she hit a 12-year-old girl outside Willetton Senior High School in Perth in June 2023

Alexis Lloyd was hit by a car at a pedestrian crossing outside Willetton Senior High School in Perth about 8.30am on June 26, 2023

The schoolgirl, who was in Year 7 at the time, suffered a broken leg and collarbone, and spent weeks in a wheelchair recovering from surgery

She had been driving unsupervised and was not displaying her L plates at the time

'You claim it was embarrassment that stopped you doing either of those things, but in circumstances where you didn't have a driver's licence the only rational conclusion is that you knew you would be in trouble,' Judge Laura Christian said.

'Your failure to stop or call for assistance was callous - you had no idea whether that person you hit was dead or alive.'

Ms Lloyd's family previously claimed Shaheen had used 'stalling tactics' by alleging an intellectual impairment to reduce her culpability.

But the court heard Shaheen had embarked on a master's degree in psychology in her native Pakistan and had since completed a certificate III in aged care.

While facing the charges, the mother gained her full Australian driver's licence.

Outside court, Alexis' mother, Tory Carter, said the 16-month jail sentence had provided relief for her family, adding: 'This is what I was hoping for'.

'I was hoping for a couple of years, and not so much for her - I'm sure she's a lovely lady - but this does need to send that clear message to everybody that you can't do that,' she said.

'Today's sentencing has brought justice finally for the callous hit-and-run of Alexis. We're relieved that the court today finally recognised the seriousness of this crime.

'We hope that the outcome sends a clear message that leaving the scene of a crime and failing to take responsibility is unacceptable.'
Doctors say the father-of-two has just weeks to live

An Aussie dad has been told he has just weeks to live after he was forced to call off his dream wedding in Fiji and get a $107,000 emergency flight back home.

Matt Graham, 44, was holidaying on the picturesque island with his partner Bree, 27, when he ended up with a bowel obstruction just days before they were due to wed.

The Gold Coast couple had got married in Australia a few months prior but wanted an overseas celebration after Matt was diagnosed with stage four colorectal cancer.

Ms Graham said the blockage came on quickly, with his doctors in Australia urging the couple to return immediately or the father-of-two 'wouldn't be coming home'.

They were forced to pay for a Medevac flight to the tune of over $107,000, after their travel insurance 'hung up' on them and 'left [them] high and dry'.

'That was probably the worst week of our lives when it should have been the best,' Ms Graham told Daily Mail.

'He'd been doing well - the clinical trial he was on before we left for Fiji was shrinking all the tumours, his markers were going down. We hadn't had any complications.

'We got about halfway through our first day before everything turned to c***. We were about two hours away from any hospital worth going to so we ended up making a makeshift hospital in the hotel room.'

'I would sacrifice everything to save him, but I cannot do this alone,' Bree Graham said. She is pictured with her husband Matt in happier times

Ms Graham described her husband as the most loving and caring father to his daughters

Matt's two daughters - aged 13 and 10 - are hoping their dad responds to the new treatment

Ms Graham said the couple were forced to pay the hefty cost upfront - a move that has stripped them entirely of their life savings.

Matt was first diagnosed with cancer in 2021 when he was living in New Zealand, where his two daughters, aged 10 and 13, still live with their mum.

He underwent surgery to remove the tumour and was given the 'all clear' but 18 months later the cancer returned with a vengeance.

A scan following a 'suspected hernia' showed the cancer had spread to his liver.

Matt underwent major surgeries to remove 45 percent of his liver and endured months of chemotherapy and treatments.

Since the couple's ordeal in Fiji, they've now been told there is nothing more doctors can do after the cancer spread to Matt's liver, brain and bones.

His liver now has a blockage in it and is shutting down.

The couple are now hoping to raise $250,000 for Matt to try, in what they believe, will be a life-saving treatment in India.

The couple were friends first, meeting at the gym in 2022

It was discovered that Matt has the aggressive and fast growing BRAFv600e mutation

'It's been constant since May 2023 - it's encompassed our entire life and changed everything... and now he's at the point where he's run out of options,' Ms Graham, who works in the fitness industry, said.

'The clinic in India sends his bloodwork to a European company called RGCC and they test his bloods and tumours to find out exactly what chemotherapy dose he needs, and what medications and supplements his tumours are sensitive to.

'And then, because they don't have the red tape that Australia has, they can give it to him. It sounds so simple, but the issue is, they won't give it to him here because it's not the PBS-funded, or government-recommended dosage or type of medication to cure his type of cancer.

'We heard about a UK patient at the clinic who had terminal cancer and was told that she wasn't going to make it till Christmas. Now they're talking about her flight home for Christmas because she's on the mend.

'So when we talk to people like that, we just can't ignore it. I can't not try to get him there... because I genuinely don't know how long we can keep him going here.'

As for Matt, knowing he has the support of his dedicated wife and loving daughters is what keeps him pushing on.

'Every time we talk to his eldest daughter about it, she just has the biggest smile ever and you can tell none of the other things matter to her. She just hears that her Dad might get better,' Ms Graham said.

'That's reason enough for us to go. He is the best Dad, those two girls are his whole world. It's been so amazing to watch his girls and see how deeply he cares for them.

'I feel their pain and I don't want them to lose their dad, as much as I don't want to lose my husband.'
A shark expert has shared a timely warning after a Swiss woman died and her boyfriend was left critically injured in a horror attack on NSW's Mid North Coast.

Emergency services rushed to the remote Kylies Beach at Crowdy Bay, south of Port Macquarie, about 6.30am on Thursday.

Despite heroic efforts from bystanders, the woman, believed to be 25, succumbed to her injuries before paramedics arrived at the scene.

Her boyfriend, 26, was airlifted to John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle and remains in a serious but stable condition.

It was revealed on Friday that the couple were filming dolphins on a GoPro when they were attacked by what is believed to have been a three-metre bull shark.

Police have reviewed the GoPro footage, which is understood to have captured dolphins in the seconds before the attack.

Bond University shark expert Dr Daryl McPhee told Daily Mail it was a common misconception that swimming with dolphins is safe because they deter sharks.

'Unfortunately, it is a myth,' he told, adding that the presence of dolphins can often indicate that sharks are nearby.

A man in his 20s (pictured) was injured trying to save a woman from a fatal shark attack

The woman, believed to be 25, died after she was attacked by a shark during an early-morning swim at Crowdy Bay on the NSW Mid North Coast on Thursday

Bond University shark expert Dr Daryl McPhee said there has been an increase in shark attacks in NSW and across Australia since 1980 (pictured, a stock image of a bull shark)

'When there are dolphins around, it often means you have got a source of fish (which they feed on) around, which may also be food for sharks,' he explained.

'Sharks also prey on dolphins as well.'

Dr McPhee said shark attacks on the water's surface, which are referred to in records as 'bites', are on the rise in NSW and across Australia.

'Between 1980 and 1999 there were only three bites in NSW but, between 2010 and 2019, there were 30 of them. That demonstrates the increasing trend,' he said.

'In Australia, between 1980 and 1989, there were six bites on the water surface in Australia, with two fatalities.

'But compare that to the period from 2000 to 2009 when there were 26 bites with three fatalities. And then 2010 to 2019 when there were 53 bites, with seven fatalities.'

He said the surge in shark attacks was due to several contributing factors, primarily the increased number of people in the water.

'We don't know the trends in the populations of the three shark species responsible for most bites: white, tiger and bull sharks,' he said.

Dr McPhee warned swimmers to avoid areas where there are schools of fish that can be preyed upon by other marine life (pictured, sharks were spotted in a feeding frenzy close to shore at Moreton Island, off the coast of Queensland)

He said impacts of climate change is driving bull sharks into warmer waters.

'Bull sharks are spending more time in the Greater Sydney region,' he said.

'That's also projected to increase.'

Dr McPhee shared his top tips on keeping shark safe this summer.

'If you're swimming at a patrolled beach, make sure to go between the flags, particularly during the summer months when bull sharks are likely to be more active,' he said.

'Avoid swimming when there are obvious signs of schools of fish that can feed other fish, dolphins and birds. Just be aware of your surroundings.'

The expert said people should avoid swimming about a kilometre from river mouths, as well as dirty or flood waters.

'If a shark has been spotted, the advice is to get out of the water as smoothly and quickly as possible,' he advised.

Following the tragedy, NSW Surf Rescue's James Turner said it served as a reminder of the risks people face when swimming at non-patrolled beaches.

'This is in a nice, secluded area where people go to swim. We want them to be aware of the risk in non-patrolled locations,' he said.
The man accused of shooting two Washington DC National Guard members led a quiet and unassuming life since he came to the US in 2021, according to his neighbors.

On Wednesday, the FBI raided the apartment of Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, in Bellingham, Washington, according to neighbors who spoke with the New York Post.

Lakanwal is accused of shooting national guardsmen Andrew Wolfe, 24, and Sarah Beckstrom, 20, near the White House on Wednesday afternoon. Beckstrom died from her injuries Thursday and Wolfe is in a critical condition.

Lakanwal's neighbors told the Post he was often seen playing Call of Duty and FIFA in his sparsely furnished apartment, where he lived with his wife and five kids.

The apartment reportedly had no beds, and members of the family slept on a few couch cushions instead.

Neighbors said the family 'never made a peep,' and that Lakanwal did not speak much English. His oldest child is 14, they added.

The Bellingham area, where Lakanwal was given housing following the US's rocky withdrawal from Afghanistan, is very liberal, according to the locals. They said it is 'Very welcoming. Very diverse. Very open.'

Officials said that Lakanwal drove across the country to commit the vicious attack against Wolfe and Beckstrom, both of whom he is accused of shooting in the head with a .357 revolver.

Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, is accused of shooting National Guardsmen Andrew Wolfe, 24, and Sarah Beckstrom, 20. Beckstrom died Thursday and Wolfe is in a critical condition

The apartment complex where Rahmanullah Lakanwal, the suspect in the shooting of two National Guard members, lived in Bellingham, Washington

Andrew Wolfe, 24, was one of the victims in the shooting. He is in critical condition after being shot in the head with a .357 revolver

Sarah Beckstrom, 20, died in the hospital Thursday night from her injuries. Trump announced her death Thursday evening

Lakanwal's neighbor said that the FBI kicked down the accused shooter's door about 16 hours after the attack. He said he could hear loud banging and agents shouting 'FBI.'

A motive for the vicious, ambush-style shooting remains unclear. Law enforcement sources told CNN that Lakanwal is not cooperating with police.

The suspect appeared to target the soldiers, firing first at one of the guardsmen who was mere feet away, according to those law enforcement sources.

He then allegedly fired at the other guardsman who tried to get behind a bus stop shelter.

Immediately after the shooting, a third national guardsman reportedly took Lakanwal down. The accused shooter reportedly also received gunshot wounds during the attack, and he is being treated in the hospital.

DC US Attorney Jeanine Pirro said that both soldiers had been sworn into the West Virginia National Guard just days before the attack.

Before Beckstrom died, Pirro said the accused shooter would be charged with three counts of assault with intent to kill while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence.

She added that the charges could be upgraded in the coming days, depending on the condition of the two National Guardsmen. If either of them dies, Lakanwal would face murder in the first degree, she said.

Officials said that Lakanwal drove across the country from his home in Bellingham, Washington, to DC before he fired at the troops on Wednesday afternoon with a .357 revolver

Bellingham, Washington, where Lakanwal was given housing following the US's rocky withdrawal from Afghanistan, is 'Very welcoming. Very diverse. Very open,' according to locals

Attorney General Pam Bondi previously told Fox News that the White House could pursue terrorism charges and the death penalty in the case.

FBI Director Kash Patel has said that his agency is conducting a 'coast-to-coast' investigation, which has included raiding two properties in Washington associated with the suspect.

Late on Wednesday night, CIA Director John Ratcliffe told Fox News that Lakanwal had direct links to the CIA from his work alongside US Special Forces in Afghanistan.

'The Biden administration justified bringing the alleged shooter to the United States in September 2021 due to his prior work with the US government, including CIA,' Ratcliffe admitted.

He said his involvement with the CIA was 'as a member of a partner force in Kandahar, which ended shortly following the chaotic evacuation.'

'The individual - and so many others - should have never been allowed to come here,' Ratcliffe added.

'Our citizens and service members deserve far better than to endure the ongoing fallout from the Biden administration's catastrophic failures.'

President Donald Trump has also pinned blame on former President Biden. 'The suspect in custody is a foreigner who entered our country from Afghanistan, a hellhole on earth,' Trump said.

The suspect appeared to target the soldiers, firing first at one of the guardsmen who was mere feet away. He then allegedly fired at the other guardsman who tried to get behind a bus stop shelter.

Lakanwal's neighbors said he was often seen playing Call of Duty in his sparsely furnished home

'He was flown in by the Biden administration in September 2021, on those infamous flights that everybody was talking about. Nobody knew who was coming in.

'His status was extended under legislation signed by President Biden, a disastrous president, the worst in our history.'

However even though the Biden administration initially allowed Lakanwal into the US in September 2021 as a refugee under Operation Allies Welcome, his visa expired and in 2024 he applied for asylum. This was granted by the Trump administration in April 2025.

A White House official told the Daily Mail that Lakanwal would not have been removed from the country because of his parole status.

'This Afghan national was paroled into the US by the Biden Admin,' the White House official said.

'After that, Joe Biden signed into law that parole program, and entered into the 2023 Ahmed Court Settlement, which bound USCIS to adjudicate his asylum claim on an expedited bases. Regardless of asylum status, this monster would not have been removed due to his parole status, granted by Joe Biden.'

The Trump administration regularly defy court orders and prior Congressional statutes.

The president ordered an additional 500 troops to be deployed in DC following the shooting, according to Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, who called the attack a 'cowardly, dastardly act, targeting the best of America.'

A motive for the vicious, ambush-style shooting remains unclear. Law enforcement sources told CNN that Lakanwal is not cooperating with police.

One of the stricken soldiers is seen in the back of an ambulance after being shot near the White House

US Citizenship and Immigration Services has indefinitely stopped 'processing of all immigration requests relating to Afghan nationals, effective immediately... pending further review of security and vetting protocols.

'The protection and safety of our homeland and of the American people remains our singular focus and mission,' the department said in a statement.

On Thursday night, Trump said he will 'permanently pause migration' from third world countries and ordered a green card audit of 19 nations, in response to the attack.

He also vowed to end all federal benefits for noncitizens, denaturalize migrants who undermine the US and deport any foreign nationals deemed a security risk or 'non-compatible with Western Civilization.'

Trump vowed that 'the animal' who shot the troops 'will pay a very steep price.'
There's a video doing the rounds on social media in which a huge crowd of men stand on top of the White Cliffs of Dover, waving Union Jacks, shouting in unison: 'Protect our country! Protect our people! We will not be moved! Secure our border!' and letting out a roar of pent-up frustration.

It has had thousands of views and generated a lot of angry comments.

In another, again watched thousands of times, an attractive woman in her 30s rants about Sadiq Khan's 'plan' to build 40,000 houses in London, just for Muslims, so that they can always be near mosques and halal food shops. 'I'm f*****g fuming. Am I hearing right?' she raves.

A third claims Keir Starmer will introduce Sharia law. Another claims the PM has resigned. One post - just a photo of migrants on an overcrowded boat accompanied by sad music and the words: 'Share if you want Britain to put its OWN PEOPLE before foreigners looking for handouts!' - got more than 50,000 views.

These posts - popping up on X, YouTube, Instagram and originating from Facebook pages with names such as Heart Of British, Proper British Pride and Together For Britain and some copying the names of genuine groups - are all fake.

Rubbish. Or 'slop', as this wave of AI-generated content has become known. But 'slop' that touches a nerve in our increasingly fragile society, by spreading racist and anti-immigrant misinformation to whip up discontent. And, importantly, none of it is British.

Because these accounts - along with hundreds of others with supposedly patriotic names - are run from Sri Lanka by a young influencer called Geeth Sooriyapura, who uses them to make money from online advertising revenues.

And Sooriyapura, in turn, is just one of the small army of global content providers who are stoking fury and meddling in other societies thousands of miles away, while hiding behind the anonymity of social media.

An AI video going viral online showing huge crowd of men stand on top of the White Cliffs of Dover, waving Union Jacks, shouting in unison: 'Protect our country! Protect our people! We will not be moved! Secure our border!'

One fake image shows Keir Starmer and Sadiq Khan in jail. The AI pictures are being made by foreign trolls in order to get rich

But hopefully not for much longer. Because, finally, after endless pleas for greater transparency for its users, X has just launched a feature in which every account displays the country or region it is based in, as well as when it was created and how many times its username has been changed.

'This is an important first step to securing the integrity of the global town square,' said Nikita Bier, X's head of product.

X is the first of the big social media platforms to bring in this seismic change - others are likely to follow - and ever since, users have been gleefully poring over 'country of origin' details and exclaiming loudly and angrily.

Because there have been some big revelations - and not just here in Britain.

Let's start in America, where it turns out many of the seemingly endless accounts projecting themselves as patriotic 'Americans' and supporting President Trump and his Maga movement are, in fact, not American at all.

Both Maga Nation, which has nearly 400,000 followers and posts multiple times a day, and the similarly named MagaNationX, which boasts the rather unlettered slogan, 'Patriot Voice For We The People', have been traced to Eastern Europe.

Then there is ULTRAMAGATRUMP2028, which claims to hail from Washington DC but turns out to be based in Africa. Dark Maga, which presents as an ultra-conservative voice, is posting from Thailand; MAGA Scope, with more than 51,000 followers, operates from Nigeria; and TRUMP_ARMY_ , with more than half a million followers, hails from India.

The fallout is also on the Left where an account run by Proud Democrat 'Ron Smith', who claims to be a MAGA Hunter, has been traced to Kenya.

Pictured: an AI generated image showing a fake protest outside parliament calling for a General Election

One post claimed Sadiq Khan has a 'plan' to build 40,000 houses in London, just for Muslims, so that they can always be near mosques and halal food shops

Suddenly, we also know that accounts sharing harrowing videos of the war in Gaza - and, crucially, seeking donations - are actually based in Indonesia.

Alleged 'survivors from northern Gaza' are posting from Malaysia. A 'father of six in a displacement camp' is a user from Bangladesh. And one user claiming to be 'a witness from Rafah' is making it all up from Afghanistan.

Worryingly, it even turns out that various accounts posing as IDF soldiers are users in London. 'Yasmine.muhamsd,' who describes herself as 'a mother in Gaza struggling to survive' and pleads for donations for her hungry baby - is in India. She deleted the account in a hurry when she was exposed.

Some have stolen real identities. The fake Mahmoud Salma, operating from the UK, claims to be a Palestinian father trying to raise his two daughters in Gaza under constant Israeli bombardment. He also asked for donations, by impersonating the real Salma family - who have their own genuine account.

We could fill this whole newspaper with all the fake accounts spreading disinformation here in the UK - stirring the pot from overseas.

Reform Party UK Exposed, an account boasting nearly 70,000 followers and posting dozens of anti-Reform missives a day, comes from America.

Several accounts in favour of Scottish independence - including one called Ewan McGregor and claiming to be from Dundee - are posting from Iran.

Even Collingwood, one of the UK's most influential, highbrow, Right-wing accounts, with 67,000 followers, appears to have links to Russia.

Meanwhile, the hugely popular Yookay Aesthetics, with 51,000 followers, which claims to hail from Bradford, is based in South America. And the now-deleted ReformWatford - with the tagline, 'we can't go on like this' - posted from Nigeria.

Another post falsely claimed that Starmer had resigned and Nigel Farage had launched a no confidence vote

As the dust settles, the big question is, of course, why it has taken X so long to take action?

Ever since Elon Musk took over the platform in 2022, the site has experienced a surge in anti-Semitism, racism, hate speech and AI slop.

Musk himself has unwittingly promoted some fake accounts.

Inevitable West, which started posting on X a year ago, claims to be a defender of Western values and identifies as a 'British Patriot', is reportedly a 31-year-old Indian former fruit juice salesman separately accused of masterminding a 550million Asian betting fraud.

And thanks to more than 30 retweets and comments by Musk, that account has more than 300,000 followers.

Yet it appears that while some of these accounts are politically motivated - to meddle, influence policy and agitate - many of these nefarious influencers are apparently just in it for the money.

Sooriyapura, who was exposed with his 100-plus fake accounts earlier this month by The Bureau of Investigative Journalism, describes himself as a 'Facebook Monetisation Expert' and claims to have made at least 230,000 from this slop, mainly due to revenue from adverts shown as people watch his AI-generated videos.

In the UK, he says, he particularly targets elderly Brits 'because they are the ones who don't like immigrants'.

Posts such as the one above are AI 'slop' that touches a nerve in our increasingly fragile society, by spreading racist and anti-immigrant misinformation to whip up discontent. And, importantly, none of it is British

It seems to be working, given the expensive cars, big watches, five star hotels, luxury apartments and swimming pools he shows off on Instagram.

Sooriyapura also insists he does not encourage violence and is only interested in teaching people how to make money from social media. But that is rubbish.

This is external societal meddling on an extraordinary scale - and it's deeply damaging.

We can all remember how, within minutes of news breaking of the monstrous Southport terrorist attack in July last year, when three little girls were fatally stabbed at a dance class, social media lit up with rumours about the attacker's origin.

One X post claimed he was 'alleged to be a Muslim immigrant'. The assertion was false but the post was viewed millions of times in the run up to riots that followed.

It came from an account called @EuropeanInvasion, which publishes anti-immigrant content and was later linked to individuals and operations based in the UAE and Turkey - purely to stir up trouble here.

Under existing law in England and Wales, it's an offence to send threatening, abusive or offensive messages online.

But the provisions of the Online Safety Act 2023, which requires social media firms to immediately take down any dangerous and misleading content, will not come into effect until the end of the year.

Ever since Elon Musk took over X , formerly Twitter, in 2022 the site has experienced a surge in anti-Semitism, racism, hate speech and AI slop

So until now, we've had to rely on the tech giants enforcing their own guidelines, which has not gone well. As one commentator said recently: 'We're living in the Wild West of slop - something has to change.'

Hopefully that process has started. The changes introduced by X's Nikita Bier, are not perfect: the very determined are still hiding behind VPNs, or 'virtual private networks', which allow people to hide their location.

But commentators are hailing the beginning of a new era of transparency and predicting other social media providers will follow suit.

Let's hope so but, in the meantime, we need to be vigilant.

So next time you get revved up by a post about the Reform Party, or immigration, or see a video of Sir Keir in prison, or kissing someone (other than his wife) in full Islamic dress or, well, doing pretty much anything other than making a hash of running the country, please check where the account originates. And if it's any country other than ours, press 'report'.
Dame Priti Patel has accused Sir Keir Starmer of putting Britain's security and global reputation at risk for his own political survival.

She warned that anti-Semitism in the UK has surged to levels not seen since the Jeremy Corbyn era and that British Jews are being left unsafe.

It comes as Sir Keir pledged on Thursday to keep Jewish people 'in my mind's eye' and tackle the 'cultural issue' of anti-Semitism.

In a hard-hitting interview with the Daily Mail, the Shadow Foreign Secretary said Labour was undermining vital intelligence cooperation with Israel, a key ally, as it is more concerned with pandering to party activists than defending Britain's security.

'When it comes to security and intelligence, that is a cooperation that can never, ever be broken or undermined. You're seeing that direction with these people. That is simply not acceptable,' she said.

Speaking on a three-day visit to Israel, Dame Priti said Labour had strained the once-strong partnership between the two nations, adding: 'Israel is pivotal to our domestic security. And the way Israel contributes to security in the region affects Britain and British citizens.'

Relations have cooled since Labour first suspended arms licences during Israel's war on Hamas in Gaza, then moved to recognise a Palestinian state.

Critics have warned that the UK has lost influence and that Israel no longer sees Britain as a strategic partner.

Dame Priti Patel pictured in Tel Aviv. The shadow foreign secretary warned that anti-Semitism in the UK has surged to levels not seen since the Jeremy Corbyn era

Dame Priti said Britain and Israel face 'common threats' and warned the consequences of the breakdown in relations between the countries directly endanger the UK public.

'They need to take a hard look at themselves, because of the jeopardy they bring to the British people, our country, our security, international standing and reputation.'

Dame Priti also attacked Sir Sadiq Khan, saying: 'My major complaint is still with the mayor of London. He is responsible for allowing those vile, anti-Semitic hate marches, to get out of hand. Weekend after weekend, he's facilitated them, and allowed them to grow. And that is an absolute disgrace.

'Not only has he brought London to a standstill, he's destroyed our reputation, our credibility as a safe city where people want to go, for the Jewish community, in particular.'

She called local authorities' decision to ban Maccabi Tel Aviv fans from a match against Aston Villa this month a humiliation for Britain, accusing Labour of being 'complicit and colluding' after reports that West Midlands Police relied on 'factually incorrect evidence' to push for the ban.

Her comments reflect growing fear after the Manchester synagogue terror attack that killed two people last month.
Britain is facing a new 'brain drain' that threatens to add to the pain of Rachel Reeves' disastrous Budget.

Official figures on Thursday revealed an exodus of young Britons while asylum seekers now make up nearly half of net migration.

As Ms Reeves struggles with her drive for growth, such stark changes risk putting even more strain on the public purse and dragging down the economy yet further, experts warn.

Taxpayers face footing an 'intolerable burden' to support migrants arriving here, they said, while this week's Budget is likely to drive away even more young people.

Overall net migration  the difference between those arriving to live long-term in the UK minus those emigrating  plummeted to 204,000 in the year to June, the Office for National Statistics said, on the back of a series of tough Tory measures.

But the number of asylum seekers coming to Britain has surged to a record high, meaning they make up a far greater share of the numbers.

Meanwhile, 174,000 16-to 34-year-olds fled Labour's high-tax state in the year to March, accounting for just over two-thirds of Britons leaving the country, the ONS said.

Following measures unveiled by Ms Reeves on Wednesday, alongside her manifesto-busting 30billion tax hikes, young people face a battle to find work, with a rise in the minimum wage meaning businesses are less likely to take a chance on them.

Britain is facing a new 'brain drain' that threatens to add to the pain of Rachel Reeves' disastrous Budget. Pictured: British Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves poses with the red budget box outside 11 Downing Street in London, Britain, November 26, 2025

Official figures on Thursday revealed an exodus of young Britons while asylum seekers now make up nearly half of net migration. Pictured: Migrants onboard an inflatable boat help others climb aboard during an attempt to cross the English Channel, off the beach of Gravelines, northern France, 27 September 2025

Those who do find employment will pay income tax earlier and at higher rates due to the freezing of the personal allowance and tax bands, while student loan repayment thresholds were also paused, meaning graduates face earlier deductions from their pay packet as they start work.

In a further significant development which will affect the economy, the number of skilled foreign workers coming here dropped to 57,000 in the 12 months to September from 75,000 the previous year.

The new data showed asylum seekers  including small boat migrants  made up 44 per cent of the net number of migrants overall.

Separately, official statistics published for the first time on Thursday showed migrants who go on to win refugee status are far more likely to be unemployed.

Even after living here for eight years, 48 per cent of working-age refugees are in work, far below the average employment rate of 74 per cent, and continue to rely on welfare hand-outs.

Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp said: 'It is a day of shame for the Government. Nearly half of net migration is asylum seekers, many of whom arrived illegally.

'Around half of asylum seekers do not end up getting a job, meaning hard-pressed taxpayers are being fleeced to fund a benefits bonanza for illegal immigrants.

'This puts an intolerable, multi-billion pound burden on the nation's finances.'

Mr Philp added: 'This "brain drain" will only get worse after Labour's punishing Budget this week.'

Dr Ben Brindle, of Oxford University's Migration Observatory, said: 'It does seem that the composition of migration has become less favourable from an economic perspective, with fewer people getting skilled worker visas and a higher share of refugees, who often need a lot of support.'

Allowing for Britons who returned to live here, net emigration of British nationals was 112,000 in the year, most of whom were aged 16-34.

By comparison, only 1,000 Britons aged over 65 emigrated while 12,000 returned to live here.

A spokesman for the Migration Observatory added: 'The only major migration category where net migration did not decrease was asylum.

'Long-term immigration of asylum seekers was 96,000 in the year ending June 2025, making up 11 per cent of all immigration  double the 5 per cent share in 2019.

Following measures unveiled by Ms Reeves on Wednesday, alongside her manifesto-busting 30billion tax hikes, young people face a battle to find work, with a rise in the minimum wage meaning businesses are less likely to take a chance on them

'Relatively few asylum migrants emigrate, so net migration of people seeking asylum was 90,000 in the same period, equivalent 44 per cent of total net migration.'

It was double the pre-Brexit figure of 22 per cent in 2019. The figures could, however, be even more stark than depicted in the Migration Observatory's analysis.

Separate Home Office data published on Thursday  covering the year to September, a more recent period than the ONS figures  showed there were a record 110,051 asylum claims.

This could make the proportion of net migration made up by asylum seekers even more pronounced in future figures.

There was a fall in long-term immigration levels to 898,000 in the year to June  the first time it has dipped below a million since 2021.

The largest group was migrants from outside the EU, on 670,000.

The year saw 85,000 EU nationals come to live here long-term, down from a peak of 521,000 in 2016. It also saw 155,000 EU nationals emigrate from Britain.

Total emigration  including Britons  was 693,000.

The number of foreign nationals granted settled status is running at the highest level in more than a decade.

There were 158,137 granted 'indefinite leave to remain', the highest figure since 2011. There were 240,613 grants of British citizenship.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said: 'Net migration is at its lowest level in half a decade and has fallen by more than two-thirds under this Government.

'But we are going further because the pace and scale of migration has placed immense pressure on local communities.

'Last week, I announced reforms to ensure that those who come here must contribute and put in more than they take out.'
A mother-of-four with an IQ of 71 has been sentenced for her role in an elaborate scheme that ripped off the NDIS for $1.1million.

Angelina Deliciso, 48, was supported by her daughter when she appeared in Sydney's District Court in Darlinghurst on Friday after pleading guilty to negligently dealing with the proceeds of crime worth more than $1million.

The court previously heard a psychologist assessed Deliciso's IQ at 71 because of mental health difficulties and 'low cognitive function'. The general population average is around 100.

But the court heard she helped launder more than $1million of fraudulently obtained NDIS cash by handing it out in brown paper bags to people she thought were subcontractors at construction sites.

According to court documents, large sums of money filtered into Deliciso's bank account between July 31 and September 7, 2018, ranging from $29,472 to $304,340, amounting to $1,122,881.13 within the six-week period.

She withdrew the money from 81 ATMs across Sydney and placed them in brown paper bags.

She then handed the bags out her car window to people she thought were construction subcontractors for the building company, King Construction NSW Pty Ltd, which she ran with her estranged younger son Mehdi Hammoud.

At the time, Deliciso was unemployed and was not receiving government benefits.

Angelina Deliciso is pictured walking into court in Darlinghurst on Friday

Angelina Deliciso was supported by her daughter in court on Friday (pictured together)

Deliciso was initially charged with recklessly dealing with the proceeds of crime, but the charge was downgraded to negligence because she was clearly not the mastermind of the operation and apparently had no idea what was going on.

The court heard she was sexually abused and exposed to pornography as a child, and forced to marry a man who beat her.

Years later, her oldest son was placed in juvenile detention after he 'seriously assaulted her and stomped on her head', the judge said.

Deliciso cried audibly as Judge Christopher O'Brien delivered the sentence of an 18-month intensive corrections order, which is a jail sentence served in the community.

Judge O'Brien said Deliciso's mental health issues, combined with her lack of education and disadvantaged upbringing, meant that she was genuinely negligent of the fact that she was dealing with the proceeds of crime.

The money trail

According to court documents, Mr Hammoud received $32,155.84 from a registered NDIS provider called Australia Wide Care Pty Ltd into the account held by his business, No Limit Crane Service Pty Ltd, within the same six-week period.

When Deliciso was questioned by NDIA investigators, she suggested they instead ask Mr Hammoud about the payments.

Mr Hammoud has not been charged with any offences.

Court documents said the money was deposited to Deliciso from accounts held by a registered NDIS provider called Australia Wide Care Pty Ltd (AWC).

Angelina Deliciso was sentenced for her role in an elaborate NDIS money laundering scheme

AWC operated under the name Terrence McKenna, who was listed as the sole director and shareholder, but the NDIA later found that Mr McKenna had no control over the company and his identity had been stolen as part of the elaborate fraud.

AWC made 422 false claims on behalf of disabled participants who never received the disability services outlined in the claims.

Deliciso is not accused of identity theft or making false NDIS claims for AWC.

She didn't question the deposits from AWC because she thought they were payments from Mr McKenna to King Construction NSW Pty Ltd for the renovation of an Islamic childcare centre.

The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) couldnt find any evidence to suggest King Construction provided building services to AWC.

When investigators asked Deliciso to identify other projects King Construction had worked on, she pointed to a block of flats near her home on the NSW south coast where she left money for workers.

However, the NDIA found construction on the unit block was carried out by a completely different company which had no record of involvement with Deliciso, King Construction, Mr Hammoud or his business No Limit Crane Service.

Angelina Deliciso was abused as a child and assessed by a psychologist to have a very low IQ

According to court documents, Deliciso believed King Construction was a legitimate construction business.

She said she looked after payroll and often withdrew cash to pay labourers, including dogmen, riggers, traffic controllers, crane operators and hoist operators until the business closed in 2019.

She said she wasnt aware of any relationship or payments between King Construction and the NDIS, and she would never knowingly defraud the NDIS.

During sentencing on Friday, Judge O'Brien said Deliciso's daughter is her primary carer.

'The offender has a complex history of trauma, depression, bipolar and attention deficit disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, major depressive disorder, and mild intellectual disability,' he said.

'Even if I'm not satisfied that her history is linked to offending, her mental deficits are likely to have played a role.'

He said she failed to take responsibility for her actions in her written apology to the court, but she did enter a guilty plea and he was satisfied she was remorseful.

She was convicted and sentenced to 18 months' imprisonment, to be served by way of intensive corrections order.

Angelina Deliciso is pictured with her daughter and lawyer while leaving court on Friday

Deliciso was arrested in 2018 after the NDIA found that eight companies were falsely registered as NDIS providers for the purpose of fraud.

Seven of those companies were registered with stolen identities.

Companies including Adventure Care, Fourstar Care, Ambulant Care, Kanesh, Martcorp, Smart Transport, and Rorke submitted a combined 1276 false claims on behalf of participants, valued at $3,807,881.63.

That amount was removed from the participants' plans, even though they never received the services.

None of the companies provided care service to holders of NDIS participant plans.
President Donald Trump announced on a call with servicemembers that National Guard soldier Sarah Beckstrom has died from her injuries after she was shot in a Washington DC 'terror attack.'

The 20-year-old was ambushed alongside fellow West Virginia National Guard member Andrew Wolfe while on duty near the White House on Wednesday night.

During a live-streamed Thanksgiving phone call with military personnel on Thursday evening, Trump revealed Beckstrom had tragically succumbed to her injuries.

'Just seconds before I went on, right now, I heard that Sarah Beckstrom of West Virginia, one of the guardsmen that we were talking about, highly respected, young, magnificent person... outstanding in every way, she's just passed away,' he said.

'She's no longer with us. She's looking down on us right now. Her parents are with her. It's just happened. She was savagely attacked, she's dead.'

Trump went on to say Beckstrom was 'an incredible person. Outstanding in every single way, department.

'Just horrible,' he added.

Afghan suspect Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, is currently in custody while hospitalized with non-life-threatening wounds allegedly sustained in the shootout.

Beckstrom's devastated father, Gary, had earlier revealed she would not survive her injuries.

President Donald Trump has confirmed that National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom has died from her injuries after she was shot dead in a Washington DC 'terror attack'

Trump announced Beckstrom's death on Thursday night, describing her as an 'incredible person' and 'outstanding in every way'

Afghan soldier Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, was named as the alleged gunman

'She has a mortal wound, it's not going to be a recovery,' he told The New York Times, speaking from her bedside. 'I'm holding her hand right now.'

West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey said Beckstrom's death was 'not the result we hoped for, but it is the result we all feared.

'Sarah served with courage, extraordinary resolve, and an unwavering sense of duty to her state and to her nation,' he wrote in a moving tribute to X.

'She answered the call to serve, stepped forward willingly, and carried out her mission with the strength and character that define the very best of the West Virginia National Guard.

'Today, we honor her bravery and her sacrifice as we mourn the loss of a young woman who gave everything she had in defense of others.'

He vowed to 'forever hold her family, her friends, and her fellow Guardsmen in our prayers as they grieve what no family should ever have to bear.'

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth also offered condolences to the family on Thanksgiving, writing: 'An American hero, at home with the LORD. RIP, Specialist Sarah Beckstrom. May our nation kneel in prayer for her family.'

Suspect Lakanwal arrived in America in 2021 as part of the disastrous US withdrawal in Afghanistan after serving as an ally of Special Forces troops in his CIA-backed 'Zero Unit.'

Sarah is seen here alongside her father Gary in an image shared to social media

Beckstrom was 'ambushed' with fellow West Virginia National Guard member Andrew Wolfe

He applied for asylum in 2024 after his temporary visa lapsed, and in April 2025, it was granted by the Trump administration.

On Thursday night, Trump announced he would 'permanently pause migration' from third world countries and ordered a green card audit of 19 nations in response to the attack.

He also vowed to end all federal benefits for noncitizens, denaturalize migrants who undermine the U.S., and deport any foreign nationals deemed a security risk or 'non-compatible with Western Civilization.'

'I will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the U.S. system to fully recover,' he wrote on Truth Social.

'Only REVERSE MIGRATION can fully cure this situation. Other than that, HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL, except those that hate, steal, murder, and destroy everything that America stands for - You wont be here for long!'

On Thursday, a longtime friend shared details about Lakanwal's mental health battle struggling with the horrors he saw and violence he carried out as part of his duty within the unit.

'When he saw blood, bodies, and the wounded, he could not tolerate it,' the childhood friend told The New York Times.

'It put a lot of pressure on his mind.'

The father-of-five was part of the elite paramilitary outfit which engaged in combat with the Taliban during the war in Afghanistan, often referred to as a 'death squad.'

Lakanwal allegedly shot the National Guard soldiers just 800 yards from the White House on Wednesday.

The suspect drove across the country from his home in Bellingham, Washington state, where he lived with his wife and five children near the Canadian border, authorities said.

The soldiers were shot by a .357 Smith and Wesson revolver.

Officials said at the Thursday press conference that Lakanwal drove across the country from his home in Bellingham, Washington, to DC before he fired at the troops on Wednesday afternoon with a .357 revolver

Footage emerged from the scene on Wednesday showing first responders performing CPR on a troop shot in the head

A member of law enforcement with a rifle at the scene near the White House

DC US Attorney Jeanine Pirro said that she believed the two 'were sworn in' to National Guard duty 'less than 24 hours before they were shot on the street.'

Lakanwal initially faced charges of assault with intent to kill while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence.

But Pirro vowed those charges would be upgraded to murder in the first degree if either of his alleged victims did not survive.

'We are praying that they survive and that the highest charge will not have to be murder in the first degree,' she said prior to Beckstrom's death.

'But make no mistake, if they do not, that will certainly be the charge.'
An NHS clinical trial giving puberty blockers to children will ask participants as young as 12 if they identify as 'two spirit'.

The 10.7million trial will recruit 250 boys and girls aged between 10 and 15 who have been diagnosed with 'gender incongruence' and give more than half hormone-suppressing drugs that pause the physical changes of puberty.

The new trial called Pathways, commissioned by the NHS and to be run by a team at King's College London, was granted ethical approval last week and is due to begin early next year.

It states its aims as evaluating the risks and benefits of giving puberty blockers to children who identify as transgender and have parental consent.

But critics have threatened a High Court challenge, arguing it risks subject children to experimental treatment which could harm them.

The Times reported that it has now been revealed that the children will be asked to complete a gender identity questionnaire as part of the trial.

The document begins: 'In this measure, gender identity is defined as someone's internal sense of self'.

The children are to then be asked 'what best describes' their gender identity and given a series of options to tick, including 'definitely' a boy or girl, 'mainly' a boy or girl, 'neither a boy or girl', 'not sure' and 'none of the above'.

The trial was ask children over 12 about 'gender identity labels' including 'two spirit', 'agender' 'genderqueer' and 'other'

Participants over 12 years old will also be asked about 'gender identity labels' and again given a range of descriptions to tick, including 'two spirit' 'agender' 'genderqueer' and 'other'.

The term 'two spirit' has its roots in indigenous North American culture, where people have historically identified as having both a masculine and feminine spirit, creating a third gender role in their communities.

Gender-critical health practitioners including Dr Louise Irvine said the questionnaire already shows a bias towards 'gender affirmatory ideology'.

Dr Irvine is a GP and co-chairman of the Clinical Advisory Network on Sex and Gender - a collective of clinicians who have voiced concerns about the rise of gender ideology in healthcare.

The gender-critical group argue the 'labels' asked of the children were 'ideological' in themselves.

Dr Irvine told the Times: 'It's absolutely ridiculous. It shows that the whole trial is imbued with gender affirmatory ideology. What this question will do is reinforce the ideology in the eyes of the children.'

She added: 'It will be confusing and most kids won't even know what it means.

'Questions should also be clear and clearly understood, so the study fails in that respect.'

Sue Evans, a psychotherapist and former clinical nurse specialist at the now closed Tavistock children's gender identity clinic, also argued the use of the term 'two spirit' in the study suggested gender ideology was at play, saying that an idea originating in Native American culture had been 'transferred in an ideological way'.

After a review by paediatrician Dr Hilary Cass into the use of puberty blockers found there was weak evidence to support their use in treating children, the NHS stopped routinely prescribing them in March last year.

This was then followed by an indefinite government ban covering private clinics in December.

The new trial is intended to fill the evidence gap identified by Dr Cass in her review of the treatment of gender dysphoria in children.

It will study the potential health risks associated with the drugs such as bone density, brain development, and mental health over time.
Labour's record-breaking tax increases will leave the richest half of households 1,000 a year worse off, a think-tank warned yesterday.

Britain's tax bill is on course to rise by 68billion  when combining the impact of Rachel Reeves' first two Budgets  according to the Resolution Foundation.

And it will add up to the biggest tax-raising Parliament in history, according to the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS).

Experts said the outlook for the economy under Labour  which insists that growth is its number one mission  was 'truly dismal'.

The Left-leaning Resolution Foundation said the combined impact of the Chancellor's two Budgets so far overtakes that of two Tories, Norman Lamont and Kenneth Clarke, in the 1990s.

It is 'the biggest double whammy of taxes for a newly-elected government on record,' the think-tank's research director James Smith said.

And chief executive Ruth Curtice said the sluggish economic outlook meant more pain was likely to come, with 'plenty more bracing Budgets' on the way.

A breakdown of the figures illustrates Labour's determination to raid aspirational middle-earners in order to splurge more on benefits. The Chancellor's freeze in income tax thresholds combined with the mansion tax on homes worth 2million or more are among the policies that will leave better-off families worse off to the tune of 1,000 on average. Some 78 per cent of households in the top half are expected to be worse off overall.

Britain's tax bill is on course to rise by 68billion  when combining the impact of Rachel Reeves ' first two Budgets  according to the Resolution Foundation

At the same time, the poorer half of families stand to gain 90 overall thanks to welfare spending, including the removal of the two-child benefit cap.

They also benefit from more general giveaways on energy prices and fuel duty  outweighing the impact, for this group, of tax hikes.

The IFS said the Budget had done nothing to boost the 'lacklustre' economy or 'stagnating' living standards.

Disposable incomes will only grow by around 0.5 per cent per year on average over the course of this Parliament, which it branded 'truly dismal'. IFS director Helen Miller said: 'Growth not only makes us richer, it makes almost every problem easier to solve.

'At the last Budget the Chancellor said: 'Every Budget I deliver will be focused on our mission to grow the economy.' That wasn't on show yesterday.'

She accused Ms Reeves of shying away from 'meaningful' tax reform, and instead delivering a Budget that felt like a government trying to 'scrape through'.

Ms Miller also claimed that the months of briefing about the poor state of the public finances had not materialised. Rather than facing a Budget black hole, Ms Reeves had been on course for a small surplus, with just a 6billion downgrade in the outlook.

Therefore, the Chancellor had made a 'decision' to hike taxes to increase spending and boost her headroom, even though there was 'no fiscal repair job needed'.

The decision to extend the freeze in personal tax thresholds for three years will mean more than a quarter of all taxpayers fall into the higher or additional rate bands, the IFS said.

And its analysis suggested basic-rate taxpayers will pay 220 more tax per year, while higher-rate taxpayers will have to stump up 600 more per year. Middle and higher income households will bear the brunt of all the tax changes combined.

Experts also raised doubts about sharp spending cuts  around the time of the next election  that would be needed for the Chancellor to meet her Budget targets.

Yael Selfim, chief economist at KPMG UK, said firms were gloomy at the prospect that this would mean more taxes for them.

'There is no message. It's very difficult for businesses to think there is growth.

'The Chancellor still says a lot of the right things, it's just that there's no delivery. The time has passed when you actually hope this will come.'
The devastated father of Anna Kepner, the 18-year-old cheerleader found dead aboard a Caribbean cruise ship, has declared he will 'fight' to ensure her teenage stepbrother is held accountable if investigators determine he played a role in her death.

Anna's father, Christopher Kepner, 41, told People that his 16-year-old stepson is possibly under investigation in connection with the case and said he will not shield him should criminal charges follow.

'I do not stand behind what my stepson has done,' Kepner said. 'I want him to face the consequences... I will be fighting to make sure that does happen.'

The explosive statement comes as the FBI continues probing what authorities have now ruled a homicide after Anna's body lifeless body was found by a housekeeper onboard the ship.

She had been hidden beneath a bed inside the cabin she shared with her 16-year-old stepbrother and her 14-year-old younger half-brother on the Carnival Horizon.

Her official death certificate states she was 'mechanically asphyxiated by other person(s).'

Authorities explained the term as meaning the cause of death was asphyxiation via a bar hold and that arm was pressed across her neck.

Kepner said the last time he saw his daughter alive was on November 6, when the blended family had gathered for dinner aboard the ship as it sailed between Mexico and Florida.

Anna Kepner was found dead at 11.17am on November 7 while she was on a Carnival cruise ship with her family

Anna's father, Christopher Kepner, 41, said his 16-year-old stepson is possibly under investigation in connection with the case

But the following day, the celebration had turned into a scene of horror.

The FBI has not publicly identified a suspect or person of interest.

Soon after the FBI launched its investigation, Anna's stepmother, Shauntel Hudson, stated in an unrelated custody filing that her 16-year-old son - Anna's stepbrother - may be subject to a criminal investigation.

Christopher Kepner said he cannot yet say what exactly happened inside that cabin but acknowledged the devastating questions hanging over the family.

'I cannot say that he is responsible but I can't decline. He was the only one that was in the room and the FBI has an ongoing investigation in which they will have to provide the evidence to say that he did do it or did not do this,' he told People.

'Right now, my best course of action is to let the FBI do what they're doing,' he said.

'They have the evidence that they need. When they make the arrest then we'll start seeing the justice side of things.'

On the night of her death, Anna's younger brother heard yelling and chairs being thrown in the cabin, where she was alone with her stepbrother, according to what the teen's exboyfriend Josh Tew told reporters at a memorial service earlier this month.

Josh claimed Anna's younger brother told him their stepbrother prevented him from entering their room and that he'd 'heard her yelling at her in a harmful way, like 'shut the hell up' and 'stuff like that.'

Even as investigators close in, Christopher admits the allegations remain difficult to reconcile with the boy he thought he knew.

Anna is seen congratulating her 16-year-old stepbrother on receiving a pair of school awards

Anna's cause of death was ruled to have been caused by asphyxiation via a bar hold  an arm placed across the neck

'He was a normal kid,' he said. 'And I would've never thought that any of this would've happened.'

Anna's grandmother, Barbara Kepner, echoed that disbelief in an interview with ABC News.

'They were just like brother and sister,' she said, adding how they were 'two peas in a pod.'

Barbara previously explained that the teen boy had struggled emotionally in the past.

'I heard him say in his own words that he does not remember what happened,' she said.

'During [his police interview] he was an emotional mess. He couldn't speak, he couldn't believe what happened.'

Sources previously told the Daily Mail that Anna went to bed early on November 6, saying she didn't feel well.

Her 14-year-old brother later left the room to take photos around the ship, leaving Anna alone with her stepbrother.

Anna's obituary said she planned to join the US Navy after graduating from high school and later become a K9 police officer

Anna's grandmother Barbara told Good Morning America that the teen and her stepbrother's relationship was just 'like brother and sister'

The next morning, when the two boys went to breakfast and Anna could not be found, a medical emergency was announced over the ship's loudspeakers. Her father ran to the cabin.

A cleaning crew had already made the discovery. Anna was declared dead at 11.17am on November 7.

Court filings show volatile family dynamics in the months leading up to the cruise.

Anna had lived with her father and his former wife Tabitha Kepner until their 2023 split.

Christopher later began a relationship with Shauntel Hudson, who had recently divorced Thomas Hudson.

Shauntel moved into Christopher's three-bed, $300,000 home in Titusville, Florida with her two youngest children.

Her oldest son, Andrew, resisted moving so fiercely that court filings say he attempted to leap from his mother's moving car.

'The eldest child then tried to jump out of the moving vehicle at which time the mother had to restrain him from doing so as the vehicle was moving,' Shauntel wrote.

Andrew, the eldest son of Anna Kepner's new stepmom Shauntel Hudson, was so desperate to avoid living in their blended family he tried leaping from his mom's moving car to escape, according to court papers

Andrew was absent from the cruise that Anna took with her father Christopher, 41, her half-siblings aged nine and 14, her grandparents, stepmom Shauntel, 36, and Shauntel's two youngest children

The blended family share a modest three-bedroom home close to Cape Canaveral and the Kennedy Space Center in Florida

Josh Tew, who broke up with the 18-year-old cheerleader six months ago, told reporters outside her memorial service that he saw the 16-year-old stepbrother attempt to 'get on top of her' while they were on Facetime

Andrew was allowed to remain with his father. The 16-year-old son later moved in - the same boy now linked to Anna's death.

Anna's former boyfriend Josh Tew has claimed disturbing behavior involving the stepbrother months earlier.

'She was too scared to tell anybody,' Tew said. 'Because he said that if she said anything about [him] getting on top of her, he'd do something to her.'

Tew also told reporters that Anna sometimes avoided her own bedroom and feared being alone in the house.

Emergency court filings submitted last week by both Shauntel Hudson and Thomas Hudson confirmed the existence of an FBI investigation.

'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 wrote in her response.
An Australian charcoal chicken chain started in Sydney by an immigrant Lebanese family has been snapped up by a New York investment company for almost $1billion.

Married couple Andre and Carole Estephan opened El Jannah as a single store beside a train station in Granville, in the city's west, in 1998.

Over the past 27 years, the family-run business has catapulted from humble beginnings to a fast-food juggernaut, with the brand now operating 48 stores across the country.

Now, the highly-coveted restaurant empire has gone under the hammer for close to $1billion after a fiercely-contested auction.

New York-based private equity firm General Atlantic, which is headquartered in the United States, acquired the business after outbidding offers from Goldman Sachs Asset Management and Melbourne buyout firm BGH Capital.

It is understood the Estephans will retain a significant stake in the business and remain involved. CEO Brett Houldin will also maintain his position.

Mr Houldin would not share the specifics about the transaction, but said El Jannah is excited about the new partnership.

'Were delighted to have found a partner that is strategically aligned with the Estephan family, management and our franchisees,' Mr Houldin told the Financial Review.

El Jannah's husband-and-wife duo Andre and Carole Estephan are pictured inside a store

El Jannah is now a fast-food juggernaut with 48 locations in NSW, Victoria and the ACT after its humble beginnings as a single store beside a train station (a branch is pictured)

'Were looking forward to this next chapter in El Jannahs story.'

The family-run business currently has 30 stores in NSW, 17 in Victoria, and 1 in the ACT, with two more stores set to open next month in Hawthorn, in Melbourne's inner east, and Woden, in Canberra's south.

Each week, a whopping 100,000 chickens go through its franchise network, with the company aiming to expand to 70 restaurants by July 1, 2026.

Mr Houldin said in October last year his ambition was for El Jannah to have 300 sites 'maybe closer to 500 if we can' within the next decade.

The brand hopes to become a household favourite to vie with fellow chicken-oriented fast-food giants KFC and Red Rooster.

The auction came after it was revealed in January that the husband and wife were testing the waters for a potential sale, with international investment banks such as Morgan Stanley looking to advise the owners and broker a deal.

El Jannah's roots go back to the first chicken shop called Awafi which was opened by Andre and Samira and their respective partners in 1997 in the Sydney suburb of Granville.

Andre and Samira's family moved to Australia to flee Lebanon's civil war in the 1970s.

The couple's first El Jannah store in Granville (pictured) opened in 1998

El Jannah has set its sights on becoming a household name across the nation

The new billionaires sold their sprawling Dural home for $15million last year

After spending years working as a taxi driver, Andre decided to reignite his childhood passion for cooking and paired up with his sibling to venture into hospitality.

Samira and her husband Simon Azzi chipped in the majority of the capital with Andre and his wife Carole putting in the rest.

Awafi offered traditional Lebanese-style chicken cooked over an open pit of charcoals, with the delicious smell reportedly drawing in customers from the nearby train station and word soon spread through the surrounding suburbs.

'People think Australians are the only ones to barbecue, but it's normal for every home to cook with charcoals in Lebanon,' Simon and Samira's daughter Sindy said.

In 1998, Andre and Carole had decided to split from Simon and Samira and go out on their own by founding El Jannah, which means 'heaven' in Arabic.

Andre took on the administration and front-of-house side of the business while Carole worked as chef in the back kitchen.

Being a family business, agreements about Awafi's methods and finances were informal and led to a rivalry between the new El Jannah and the Azzis, who continued on with Awafi, as the two restaurants competed for customers.

El Jannah's chargrilled fare - served with Lebanese mixed pickles, pita bread, fries and a generous serving of its famed garlic sauce - saw it rise to the top of Sydney's warring chicken chains.

Awafi along with Hawa, also from Western Sydney, Portuguese immigrant-founded Frangos and the aforementioned eastern suburbs-based Chargrilled Charlies have all seen success but El Jannah's meteoric rise has outshone them.

The Lebanese chain wants to rival fast-food giants KFC and Red Rooster as the chicken provider of choice in Australian homes

'Back in 1998, El Jannah was one of the first of its kind to offer this type of food,' Mr Estephan told Real Commercial last year.

'We saw an opportunity to sell a high-quality product that wasn't already widely available and Granville was an ideal location because of the existing Lebanese community.

'We loved seeing customers who enjoyed our food and would return with their friends and family. With our charcoal chicken as the hero and sales growing, by the end of the first year of trade we knew it would be a successful business.'

The company branched out on its second location in nearby Punchbowl in 2009, followed by other locations in its 'heartland' of Western Sydney.

It then moved into Melbourne with venues in Preston, Campbellfield and Craigieburn performing well.

It now has regional NSW locations in Tahmoor and Albion Park, along with a store in Gungahlin in the ACT.

The fast-food powerhouse also has its eyes set on spreading into South Australia and Queensland.

'I'd love the brand to be all over the country and potentially go international,' Mr Houldin said.

Recent success stories in Australia's red-hot fast food industry include burrito chain Guzman y Gomez, which recently floated on the ASX, and Sunshine Coast founded Betty's Burgers, which has exploded to 60 locations in under 10 years.

General Atlantic is best known in Australia for its investment in aged and disability care platform Mable, which is its only asset headquartered Down Under.

In 2023, the American equity firm also backed Authentic Brands Group - which bought Boardriders and luxury fashion brand Zimmermann - with a $500million investment.
A man was shot and killed in broad daylight on a quiet Sydney street on Friday, triggering a dramatic police chase that ended with two arrests.

Emergency services were called to Carinya Street, Blacktown, around 11.50am after reports of a public shooting and found a man with wounds to his neck, chest, and leg.

He was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics but died at the scene.

Police quickly identified a black Mazda Ute fleeing the area.

The car then crashed a street over on Kildare Road, and two occupants ran from the vehicle.

They were arrested a short time later and taken to Blacktown Police Station.

'The pursuit lasted approximately five minutes and ended with a minor crash, after which it was terminated,' a NSW Police spokesperson said.

'Police chased both alleged offenders from the vehicle and arrested them a short time later.

'Both men have been conveyed to Blacktown Police Station, where they are currently in custody.'

Two people suspected of shooting a man dead in broad daylight on Carinya Street, in Blacktown, on Friday have been arrested by police

The pair had fled the scene of the shooting in a Mazda but, after it crashed, had attempted to run from NSW Police officers before they were apprehended

There is no threat to the public but, the community has been urged by police to avoid the area

Footage published by independent media channel SCN Worldstar showed one of the suspected shooters lying on the ground between two cars with a cut on his face, surrounded by officers as he was handcuffed.

NSW Police confirmed the pair in custody are men aged 18 and in their early 20s.

Both suspects and the victim are known to police.

'There is no threat to the public, however, the community is urged to avoid the area,' the spokesperson said.

Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the shooting continue, including whether the shooting was linked to the underworld gang war.
A young Florida gym teacher has been arrested after allegedly sending inappropriate photos and text messages to a middle school-aged student.

Yezmar Angeanis Ramos-Figueroa, 22, was detained by detectives with the Osceola County Sheriffs Office on Wednesday, according to police.

She was charged with distributing obscene material to a minor and transmitting harmful material to a minor - both felonies - according to Osceola County Corrections and Jail Services records.

The 13-year-old student's mother reported the alleged inappropriate contact to police in mid-October.

The 22-year-old was working at Central Pointe Christian Academy as a PE teacher when she allegedly committed the crimes.

The academy is a private K-12 school with different locations for the middle school and the high school. Ramos-Figueroa worked at the middle school in Kissimmee, about 20 miles south of Central Orlando.

According to the Osceola Sheriff's Office, detectives obtained text messages and photographs sent to the student's phone by Ramos-Figueroa after questioning her.

The former PE teacher 'admitted to texting and sending a picture to the victim,' the sheriff's office added.

Yezmar Angeanis Ramos-Figueroa, 22, was arrested by detectives with the Osceola County Sheriffs Office on Wednesday

She was charged with distributing obscene material to a minor and transmitting harmful material to a minor, which are both felonies

Ramos-Figueroa 'admitted to texting and sending a picture to the victim,' according to the sheriff's office

Ramos-Figueroa is currently being held at the Osceola County Jail. Her bond is set at $5,000 for each of her charges, for a total of $10,000.

Both of her charges are third-degree felonies. If found guilty, each charge would carry a maximum sentence of five years in prison.

Teachers being arrested for inappropriate conduct with underage students is not uncommon.

Earlier this month, a 31-year-old former Missouri middle school teacher was sentenced to ten years in prison after she pleaded guilty to sexually abusing at least one student.

She would offer money, marijuana and alcohol in exchange for sex or to allow her to perform oral sex, according to court documents.

The prior month, a Nebraska educator and her boyfriend were arrested and charged with allegedly grooming and sex trafficking a student.

The young student's mother reported the alleged inappropriate contact to police in mid-October

Ramos-Figueroa was working at the middle school location of Central Pointe Christian Academy in Kissimmee as a PE teacher when she allegedly committed the crimes

The teacher reportedly led a student upstairs to her bedroom and made a request that the student interpreted as sexual. After the student declined, the teacher apologized and told her not to tell anyone before giving her $100 in $20 increments, according to court documents.

Last year, a 65-year-old school teacher from California who had previously been fired for inappropriate conversations with a 16-year-old student was arrested after he was caught inside the girl's bedroom.

In 2017, the mother of a 14-year-old girl found sexts from a 32-year-old teacher on the young teen's phone.

In 2016, a former Pennsylvania high school teacher was charged with sending a video showing herself performing a sex act and nude photos of herself to a 17-year-old male student.
Six months' pregnant with two children at home, a young woman was understandably upset when her four-year-old found a gun inside their couch.

Kiara Ferguson, 27, took the homemade firearm from her little girl and marched to the back of the family home where her partner of 10 years was on the toilet.

'What have I told you about this?' she said to Adam Winmar, the father of her children.

Winmar's previous attempts to discharge the firearm had never worked, but the gun was loaded.

Ms Ferguson dropped the weapon, a homemade 12-gauge spring pipe gun, onto the tiled bathroom floor.

'In a stroke of terrible misfortune' the gun hit the tiles and fired a single shot, which hit Ms Ferguson below her eye, Supreme Court Justice Michael Croucher said.

'She fell to the floor, mortally wounded,' the judge told the court sitting in Shepparton on Friday.

Winmar called triple zero and began CPR, however Ms Ferguson could not be saved and she died in the bathroom of their Shepparton home on April 1, 2023.

The gun hit the tiles and fired a single shot - hitting Kiara Ferguson below the eye. She died in the bathroom of the family's Shepparton, Victoria home

Adam Winmar pleaded guilty to reckless conduct endangering life and possessing a firearm as a prohibited person. He was sentenced to three months' imprisonment

Justice Croucher said Winmar's storage of the gun inside a crevice of their couch in the lounge room, which was easily accessible to their two children, had endangered their lives as well as Ms Ferguson's.

'It was a profoundly stupid thing to do,' he said, as he jailed him for three months on Friday.

'Any loaded gun is to be treated as potentially dangerous, especially so when young children might get their hands on it.'

Winmar was initially charged with a firearm offence and pleaded guilty in the Koori Court, however prosecutors upgraded it to negligent manslaughter.

Before a trial was due to begin, the prosecution abandoned the most serious charge and Winmar pleaded guilty to reckless conduct endangering life and possessing a firearm as a prohibited person.

He was given a sentence indication of three months in prison followed by a 12-month community corrections order.

The judge imposed this sentence, despite hearing on Friday morning that Winmar was continuing to abuse drugs as recently as this week.

Prosecutor Jim Shaw said Winmar admitted he was using methamphetamine every day and consuming GHB four to five days a week.

Winmar also had a lengthy criminal history and continued to offend after Ms Ferguson's death, including committing assault and choking offences for which he was given a four-month jail term in April.

After completing this term, and while on a community corrections order, he committed an affray in public with others while holding a meat cleaver, for which he received another three months' jail.

But Justice Croucher ultimately found Winmar's experience of losing his partner, not being allowed to see his children and his 'extreme guilt and devastation' over what he did, were its own form of punishment.

'I am satisfied that Mr Winmar is extremely unlikely ever again to have a loaded gun at his premises, let alone to store a gun in such a manner,' the judge said.

Winmar was taken into custody after the hearing to begin serving his three-month prison term.

Upon his release he must perform 200 hours of community work and undergo treatment for drug and alcohol abuse at a residential facility.

13YARN 13 92 76

Lifeline 13 11 14
Explosive details in the battle over Virginia Giuffre's fortune are expected to be released in coming days as the Supreme Court in Perth has recommended that Robert Giuffre join his sons in civil proceedings to take control of his late wife's will.

In a short case management meeting in Perth on Friday, Registrar Danielle Davies indicated that there were other parties she considered should potentially be added into the proceedings vying for millions left by the late sex trafficking victim.

Virginia's adult sons, Christian, 19 and Noah, 18, are already embroiled in the series of claims and counterclaims with Karrie Louden, Virginia's former lawyer, and her carer and housekeeper at the time of her death, Cheryl Myers.

Ms Davies said she thought 'the deceased's husband could be joined or at the very least notified' before the next case management meeting.

According to lawyer JB Patty, representing Christian and Noah, when the summons to be granted authority over their mother's estate was filed by Giuffre's sons in June, there was a document in the filing which accompanied a writ from Robert Giuffre.

'My understanding is that Robert's consent was attached to an application for a non-contentious grant (from the will),' Ms Davies told the court.

'He would consent to the grant being made to his sons, but now there's defence and counterclaims, which would remove his entitlement.'

Mr Patty agreed that this had been the case prior to Ms Louden and Ms Myers filing counterclaims and becoming defendants in the civil battle over the Giuffre's estate.

Virginia and Robert Giuffre (pictured) were married for over two decades before they split in early 2025

Virginia Giuffre pictured with brother Sky Roberts (left) and half-brother Daniel Scott Wilson

The former Duke of York, Virginia Giuffre, and Ghislaine Maxwell in an undated picture

The Registrar also highlighted the claim of Virginia's youngest child, a teenage daughter - who cannot be identified for legal reasons.

'Apart from the two boys and Robert, there is the girl,' she said.

'If it's the case that Robert is joined, he could also be joined in his capacity as guardian for (his daughter).'

But she warned that, because of the complicated nature of the case, this paved the way for a possible conflict 'between Robert's interests and the interests of the minor'.

The intriguing details of the counterclaims between Karrie Louden and Cheryl Myers on one side and the two Giuffre brothers on the other are expected to come to light once pleadings in the case are publicly released, which will likely be next week.

At stake is more than $25million, comprising a 2022 payout of up to $24.5million from the former prince, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, $770,000 paid by paedophile Jeffrey Epstein in 2009 and an undisclosed sum paid by his associate Ghislaine Maxwell in 2017 after Giuffre sued her for defamation.

It was reportedly Virginia Giuffre's fear of losing this money amid turmoil over her failed marriage that was swirling around the 41-year-old when she took her own life seven months ago, on April 25.

At the time of her death, Virginia was subject to a restraining order taken out by Robert in the Perth courts which she said prevented her from seeing her children.

She owned four properties, including the $2.5million Perth beach house overlooking the Indian Ocean where Robert now lives with their three children, and the $1.3million farmhouse about 80km north of Perth where she took her life.

Ms Louden and Ms Myers, who mounted the legal challenge against Virginia's sons, are being represented by respected commercial litigator Craig Hollett.

Virginia Giuffre died in April this year in Western Australia, where she had lived for several years

Virginia Giuffre lived in this home in Ocean Reef (pictured) before her separation from her husband. After they split, she moved to a farm the couple also owned at Neergabby, around 84km north of Perth

Jemin Jo, who is representing Giuffre's sons and brothers, is pictured outside the Perth Supreme Court

Mr Hollett declined to comment outside the court on Friday other than to summarise the request to include other parties such as Robert Giuffre.

The case is expected to resume early in 2026.
A packed Jetstar flight with almost 200 passengers onboard was diverted to Sydney after an 'unusual' smell was detected in the air vents.

Emergency services were called to the airport in Mascot about 2.20pm on Friday, with NSW Police confirming the aircraft had landed safely.

No injuries have been reported.

Flight JQ650 from Coolangatta was scheduled to arrive in Canberra at 2.50pm but was forced to divert after the unusual smell was detected.

Jetstar said they are still working to determine the source of the smell.

The airline did not confirm whether passengers would be put on a new flight on Friday afternoon or if alternative transport to Canberra would be organised.

More to come.
A suspect has been arrested for the brutal murder of an American man in Trinidad and Tobago.

Christopher Brown, 43, was found stabbed to death around 10.30pm on Wednesday in a small fishing village on the island of Tobago by officers with the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service.

He was a builder from Silverthorne, Colorado, according to a local police report.

The officers had been responding to a report that Brown was found unresponsive in the area.

The American was found with multiple stab wounds and a 'metal object' protruding from his back. Investigators are still working to determine the motive for the murder.

Police were told that Brown had been having dinner and drinks with friends on Wednesday evening before he went off on his own, telling his friends he was going to buy marijuana.

Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro told The Associated Press: 'I can confirm that a suspect is currently in custody.' No further information about the suspect has been released to the public.

The Daily Mail has reached out to the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service for comment.

Christopher Brown, 43, was found stabbed to death around 10.30pm on Wednesday in Tobago (pictured, stock image)

The American was found in a small fishing village with multiple stab wounds and a 'metal object' protruding from his back (stock image)

Officers who found Brown had been responding to a report that the American was found unresponsive in the area

Tobago's Division of Tourism condemned the murder and said this was 'the first such act of violence' in the fishing village where Brown was found dead. They added that the village is traditionally known for being safe and welcoming.

Authorities did not say whether Brown was a tourist who had recently arrived in Trinidad and Tobago or if he had been there for an extended period of time.

Brown's killing was the latest in a surge of murders the dual-island nation has experienced over the past year.

So far in 2025, the country has recorded 330 homicides, which has prompted officials to declare a state of emergency.

Authorities took the measure in July, saying a criminal network in the country's prisons was plotting to kill government officials and attack public institutions.

That is the second state of emergency caused by consecutive years of swelling murder rates.

In December 2024, the nation also declared a state of emergency after 623 murders were recorded over the course of the year.

The number of murders has made the small Caribbean country, with a population of around 1.5 million, one of the nations with the highest homicide rates in Latin America.

Authorities did not say when Brown had arrived in Trinidad and Tobago or how long he had been there

So far in 2025, Trinidad and Tobago has recorded 330 homicides, which has prompted officials to declare a state of emergency

Organized crime in the twin-island republic is responsible for the majority of the murders, many of which are linked to the international drug trade.

Last year, police estimated that around 42.6 per cent of all killings were gang-related.

According to the US State Department, the country's proximity to Venezuela and its direct transportation links to Europe and North America make it a 'prime location for narcotics trans-shipment'.

In one high-profile spate of violence, five men were gunned down overnight in a shop on the outskirts of the capital, Port of Spain, which police believed was linked to the killing of a prominent gang leader the day before.

Before the recent states of emergency for the high murder rates, the last state of emergency declared in the country was in May 2021 to allow for restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Almost 300,000 people arrived in Trinidad and Tobago by air or sea in 2024, according to government statistics - a figure that rises to nearly half a million once cruise ship arrivals are factored in.
A teenager is fighting for life and another man has been seriously injured after a stabbing left pools of blood on the floor at an Adelaide shopping centre during Black Friday sales.

Police and paramedics responded to reports of a fight inside the food court of the Elizabeth City shopping centre in Adelaide's northern suburbs, just after 2pm on Friday.

SA Police confirmed that a 20-year-old was stabbed in the abdomen and a 16-year-old boy was stabbed in the leg during the incident. The 16-year-old is fighting for life.

A man was arrested at the scene and is now being interviewed by police. His identity is yet to be confirmed.

During a press conference on Friday afternoon, SA Police confirmed the disturbance wasn't 'a random incident'.

They also confirmed detectives had obtained the knife used in the attack.

Police said they are still searching for a fourth person who was part of the group involved in the brawl.

Superintendent Amit Sareen said: 'The injuries sustained by the 16-year-old boy are considered life-threatening.'

The incident is believed to be a stabbing, with what appears to be blood on the floor

Superintendent Amit Sareen said the teenager had life-threatening injuries

Police and paramedics responded to reports of a fight inside the Elizabeth City shopping centre in Adelaide's northern suburbs, just after 2pm on Friday

'This was not a random attack. We understand the members of the group were known to each other,' he said.

Police swarmed the Elizabeth City shopping centre on Friday

In a video circulating online, a woman can be heard shouting for help as she holds up a person who appears to have been injured. 'Give me a trolley, give me a trolley now,' she screams, gesturing to other shoppers.

Pools of blood could be seen on the floor in the confronting video.

A witness told the ABC she fled the commotion.

'We were sitting down and I was feeding my daughter and all of a sudden we just seen a whole bunch of people surrounding one guy and one guy jumped on another and it was chaotic,' she said.

'We didn't see anything [in terms of a weapon] but there was a lot of shouting and everything like that and we just got up and walked away.'

She said she then took refuge in Big W, which was located nearby.

'We didn't see anything [in terms of a weapon] but there was a lot of shouting and everything like that and we just got up and walked away.'

Anyone who witnessed this incident or has any mobile phone footage is asked to approach police at the scene or provide their details via Crime Stoppers.
President Donald Trump will 'permanently pause migration' from third world countries and ordered a green card audit of 19 nations after the Washington, DC terror attack that left a National Guard soldier dead.

Trump blasted former president Joe Biden for letting unvetted migrants stream into America - claiming he allowed the Afghan shooting suspect into the US during the disastrous 2021 withdrawal.

'I will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the US system to fully recover,' he said in a Truth Social post Thursday night.

Trump also vowed to end all federal benefits for noncitizens, denaturalize migrants who undermine the US, and deport any foreign nationals deemed a security risk or 'non-compatible with Western Civilization'.

'Only REVERSE MIGRATION can fully cure this situation,' he wrote in the Truth Social post.

'Other than that, HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL, except those that hate, steal, murder, and destroy everything that America stands for - You wont be here for long!'

Trump earlier demanded every green card issued to immigrants from 19 'countries of concern' face an urgent reexamination.

The countries are: Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen, Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela.

President Donald Trump has paused all migration from third world countries and ordered an audit of green card holders from 19 countries as part of his response to a terror attack in Washington DC which left a National Guard soldier dead and another in a critical condition

Trump blasted former president Joe Biden for letting unvetted migrants stream into America - claiming he allowed the Afghan shooting suspect into the US during the disastrous 2021 withdrawal. Hundreds of Afghans were seen crowded into cargo jets during the withdrawal

The US withdrew troops from Afghanistan in 2021, granting visas to Afghans who had assisted US Special Forces during the war effort. Pictured: Soldiers guarding the airport in Kabul during the withdrawal

The extraordinary measures come after 29-year-old Afghan Rahmanullah Lakanwal allegedly shot two National Guardsmen who were on duty near the White House, leaving 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom dead and 24-year-old Andrew Wolfe fighting for his life.

Lakanwal arrived in America in 2021 as part of the disastrous US withdrawal from Afghanistan after serving as an ally of Special Forces troops in his CIA-backed 'Zero Unit'.

During the withdrawal incredible photos and video showed hundreds of Afghans running to board cargo jets. On one plane 640 migrants were overloaded into an aircraft designed to carry 150.

Trump on Thursday humiliated CBS reporter Nancy Cordes after she questioned his claims that Biden was to blame for this week's attack, and noted it was actually his administration which vetted Lakanwal and granted him asylum.

'Actually, your DOJ IG just reported this year that there was thorough vetting by DHS and by the FBI of these Afghans who were brought into the US,' Cordes, the Chief White House Correspondent for CBS, said. 'So why do you blame the Biden administration for what this man did?'

Trump was outraged by her line of questioning, instantly firing back: 'Are you stupid?'

'Because they let them in. Are you stupid? Are you a stupid person?' he said. 'They came in on a plane along with thousands of other people that shouldn't be here and you're just asking questions because you're a stupid person.'

After delivering his scathing rebuke, Trump turned his attention back to his sweeping immigration security review, which could impact tens of thousands of legal residents.

Afghan soldier Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, was named as the alleged gunman in custody over the shooting

Sarah Beckstrom tragically succumbed to her injuries on Thursday, hours after her dad publicly confirmed she would not survive

Wolfe was shot alongside Beckstrom in Washington, DC on Wednesday

Federal officials describe it as a 'full scale, rigorous' process and a dramatic escalation triggered by Wednesday's deadly attack.

The announcements come on a dramatic day where the president earlier had to deliver the devastating news that Beckstrom had succumbed to her injuries on a live-streamed phone call with service members.

'Just seconds before I went on, right now, I heard that Sarah Beckstrom of West Virginia, one of the guardsmen that we were talking about, highly respected, young, magnificent person... outstanding in every way, she's just passed away,' he said in the call to troops.

'She's no longer with us. She's looking down on us right now. Her parents are with her. It's just happened. She was savagely attacked, she's dead.'

Her colleague, Staff Sgt Andrew Wolfe, 24, remains in critical condition in hospital.

In Trump's furious rant against Biden on Thursday night, he vowed to 'terminate all of the millions of Biden illegal admissions, including those signed by Sleepy Joe Bidens Autopen.'

He also said he would 'remove anyone who is not a net asset to the United States, or is incapable of loving our Country, end all Federal benefits and subsidies to noncitizens of our Country, denaturalize migrants who undermine domestic tranquility, and deport any Foreign National who is a public charge, security risk, or non-compatible with Western Civilization.

'These goals will be pursued with the aim of achieving a major reduction in illegal and disruptive populations, including those admitted through an unauthorized and illegal Autopen approval process.'

Trump lashed out at the reporter, asking 'are you stupid?' when she challenged his repeated arguments that Biden was to blame for the tragedy

Trump humiliated CBS reporter Nancy Cordes (pictured) in a scathing dressing down calling her a 'stupid person' after she questioned Trump's claims that Biden was to blame for the tragedy, and noted it was actually his administration which vetted Lakanwal and granted him asylum

Nationals of Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen, Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela will have their Green Cards reexamined

He lamented the census data which revealed there are 53 million foreigners in America, claiming 'most of which are on welfare, from failed nations, or from prisons, mental institutions, gangs, or drug cartels.

'They and their children are supported through massive payments from Patriotic American Citizens who, because of their beautiful hearts, do not want to openly complain or cause trouble in any way, shape, or form.'

Trump said everyday Americans 'put up with what has happened to our Country, but its eating them alive to do so!'

'This refugee burden is the leading cause of social dysfunction in America, something that did not exist after World War II (Failed schools, high crime, urban decay, overcrowded hospitals, housing shortages, and large deficits, etc.)'

In the same lengthy Truth Social post, Trump singled out refugees from Somalia, claiming they are 'completely taking over the once great State of Minnesota' and targeting Somalian congresswoman Ilhan Omar as 'the worst "Congressman/woman" in our Country.'

'Always wrapped in her swaddling hijab, and who probably came into the U.S.A. illegally,' he wrote, adding 'you are not allowed to marry your brother.'

Trump's swipe at Omar comes on the back of years-long speculation - which were never substantiated and partly perpetuated by Trump himself in 2019 - that she married her brother.

He said Omar 'does nothing but hatefully complain about our Country, its Constitution, and how badly she is treated, when her place of origin is a decadent, backward, and crime ridden nation, which is essentially not even a country.'

Your browser does not support iframes.

Trump shared a lengthy Truth Social post on Thanksgiving night just hours after revealing one of the National Guard's shot in the attack had died

Shooting suspect Lakanwal applied for asylum in 2024 after his temporary visa lapsed, and in April 2025, it was granted by the Trump administration.

A White House official told the Daily Mail that Lakanwal would not have been removed from the country because of his parole status.

'This Afghan national was paroled into the US by the Biden Admin,' the White House official said.

'After that, Joe Biden signed into law that parole program, and entered into the 2023 Ahmed Court Settlement, which bound USCIS to adjudicate his asylum claim on an expedited bases. Regardless of asylum status, this monster would not have been removed due to his parole status, granted by Joe Biden.'

Earlier on Thursday, a longtime friend shared details about his mental health battle struggling with the horrors he saw and violence he carried out as part of his duty within the unit.

'When he saw blood, bodies, and the wounded, he could not tolerate it,' the childhood friend told The New York Times.

'It put a lot of pressure on his mind.'

The father-of-five was part of the elite paramilitary outfit which engaged in combat with the Taliban during the war in Afghanistan, often referred to as a 'death squad'.

Sarah Beckstrom's father had heartbreakingly shared that his daughter would not survive her injuries and was at her bedside when she died

The apartment complex where Rahmanullah Lakanwal, and his family live in Bellingham, Washington

While his role within the unit is not clear, his taskforce was often linked to night raids, covert operations and was suspected of carrying out executions.

'He would tell me and our friends that their military operations were very tough, their job was very difficult, and they were under a lot of pressure,' the friend said.

Hours after his identity was made public on Wednesday night, CIA Director John Ratcliffe sensationally admitted Lakanwal was known to his agency and had worked with the team.

He told Fox News that his involvement was 'as a member of a partner force in Kandahar, which ended shortly following the chaotic evacuation'.
A heroic young man who carried his girlfriend back to shore after a shark savaged his leg has been identified.

Lukas Schindler, 26, and his girlfriend Livia Muhlheim, 25, were mauled by a bull shark during an early morning swim in the unpatrolled waters off Kylies Beach at Crowdy Bay, south of Port Macquarie, on Thursday.

Emergency services were called to the beach, known to be a shark hotspot, at about 6.30am following reports that the young Swiss couple had been attacked.

Mr Schindler, an exchange student, who had recently qualified as a diving instructor tried desperately to fight off the three-metre shark as it attacked his girlfriend.

The 25-year-old had been using a GoPro to film herself swimming with dolphins moments before the shark bit her several times, tearing off her left arm.

Eventually he managed to scare it away but not before the animal mauled Ms Muhlheim and bit him twice on the leg as well.

These injuries did not stop Mr Schindler getting her to shore where bystanders immediately jumped in to try and save her life.

Despite their best efforts, Ms Muhlheim succumbed to her injuries before paramedics arrived.

Lukas Schindler, 26, and his girlfriend were mauled by a shark in unpatrolled waters off Kylies Beach at Crowdy Bay, south of Port Macquarie, on Thursday

Amid the attack Mr Schindler swam out to his girlfriend as fast as he could.

He managed to punch it several times before the shark latched onto his right leg and but him twice.

Upon getting back to shore Mr Schindler raced to retrieve his phone and call emergency services.

This was when a passerby spotted the severely injured exchange student and applied a makeshift tourniquet to his leg using her swimmers.

The bystander was guided by paramedics on the phone and authorities have praised her as likely having saved Mr Schindler's life.

Mr Schindler was flown to John Hunter Hospital, in Newcastle, where he remained in a stable condition on Friday.

Police are now reviewing the footage Ms Muhlheim captured in the lead up to the attack, although it is unknown if the attack itself was captured on camera.

A report is being prepared for the coroner.

Mr Schindler managed to carry Livia Muhlheim, 25, back to shore despite having been bitten in the leg twice by the three-metre shark

A massive operation is now underway to track down the shark believed to have attacked the couple.

Drones and drum lines were dispatched to the area of the beach where the incident took place on Thursday.

Mr Schindler completed his diving instructors' course at a Bondi dive centre and had served as a first lieutenant in the Swiss Armed Forces, according to his online posts.

Both he and his girlfriend had only arrived at their Mid North Coast campsite late Wednesday night, other campers told The Age.

The pair had set off for their morning swim at the unpatrolled beach early the next day.

Police have confirmed they are in contact with the Consulate General of Switzerland in Sydney to notify the couple's family abroad.
Donald Trump humiliated a journalist in a stunning on-camera outburst on Thursday, viciously snapping at the reporter 'Are you stupid? Are you a stupid person?'

The personal attack came during a press conference over the Afghan suspect accused of shooting two National Guard members in Washington, DC on Wednesday.

The extraordinary exchange unfolded as reporters pressed Trump about the vetting of the accused gunman Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, and whether federal screening failures were actually to blame rather than immigration policy.

Nancy Cordes, 51, CBS News chief White House correspondent, calmly noted that federal officials had said the suspect 'worked very closely with the CIA in Afghanistan for years, that he was vetted and the vetting came up clean'.

The President immediately lashed back.

'He went cuckoo. I mean, he went nuts,' Trump said.

'It happens too often with these people. You see them. But look, this is how they come in, they're standing on top of each other. That's an airplane. There was no vetting or anything. They came in unvetted and we have a lot of others in this country and we're going to get them out.'

Cordes then pushed again, citing federal watchdog findings.

President Donald Trump humiliated a journalist in a stunning on-camera outburst on Thursday

Trump viciously snapped at reporter Nancy Cordes, CBS News chief White House correspondent, with the words 'Are you stupid? Are you a stupid person?' after she pressed him on how the alleged DC shooter was able to enter the US

'Actually, your DOJ IG [United States Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General] just reported this year that there was thorough vetting by DHS and by the FBI of these Afghans who were brought into the US, so why do you blame the Biden administration for what this man did?'

Trump's response devolved into a stingingly personal attack as he laid into Cordes, who was educated at Princeton University.

'Because they let them in. Are you stupid? Are you a stupid person?' he fired back.

'Because they came in on a plane along with thousands of other people that shouldn't be here and you're just asking questions because you're a stupid person.'

He continued, launching into a broad condemnation of the Afghanistan withdrawal and immigration law.

'And there's a law passed that it's almost impossible to get them out. You can't get them out once they come in, and they came in and they were unvetted, they were unchecked, there were many of them, and they came in on big planes and it was disgraceful,' Trump said.

'The whole Afghanistan situation was a mess. It should've never taken place we would've left from Bagram, and we would've kept Bagram by the way.'

Despite the verbal barrage, the reporter seemed to take the insult in her stride, though at one point appeared to raise an eyebrow and nod as Trump continued to berate her, ignoring the information she was attempting to clarify.

Cordes, seen in purple, managed to keep her cool despite being insulted by the President

Trump grew visibly frustrated as he attempted to show how many Afghan nationals entered the country under chaotic conditions

The photo Trump showed was of 640 Afghans being rescued from Kabul in August 2021 in a cargo jet that was designed to carry 150

Thursday night's explosive confrontation between the president and a female reporter centered on the shooting of two National Guard members on Wednesday afternoon in Washington, DC.

It was the latest in a string of outbursts from Trump against reporters.

This week Trump slammed a female New York Times reporter for being 'ugly' after dredging up 'creepy' health rumors about him.

Katie Rogers co-wrote a piece about how Trump, 79, has scaled back his public appearances in his second term compared to his first stint in the White House.

The article claimed that the President's attempts to project 'round-the-clock energy, virility and physical stamina' were becoming difficult for him to maintain as he ages.

'The Creeps at the Failing New York Times are at it again,' Trump told his followers on Truth Social on Wednesday morning. 'Radical Left Lunatics in the soon to fold New York Times did a hit piece on me that I am perhaps losing my Energy, despite facts that show the exact opposite.'

'They know this is wrong, as is almost every thing that they write about me, including election results, ALL PURPOSELY NEGATIVE. This cheap RAG is truly an ENEMY OF THE PEOPLE.

'The writer of the story, Katie Rogers, who is assigned to write only bad things about me, is a third-rate reporter who is ugly, both inside and out.'

Earlier this month, Trump snapped at a journalist after being asked about the Epstein files on Air Force One

Trump also fired back at Katie Rogers after she co-wrote a piece about how the President's age and health are starting to catch up with him in the Oval Office

Then, earlier this month Trump told Bloomberg reporter Catherine Lucey to be 'quiet, piggy' after she asked about the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files.

At the time, the President was being quizzed by journalists on Air Force One.

Lucey appeared to ask Trump a question relating to Epstein before the President began waving a finger in her face.

Quiet, quiet piggy! Trump snapped at the journalist while she stood off camera.

The President later lashed out at her again, days later, in another heated exchange.

While speaking to the press outside Air Force One, Trump began responding to a question from Lucey regarding Tucker Carlson's interview with white supremacist Nick Fuentes.

The President was then interrupted by the journalist, leading to a sudden outburst: 'Will you let me finish my statement?

'You are the worst! You're with Bloomberg, right? You are the worst! I don't know why they even have you.'

And in October, Trump made a point of shutting down an ABC News reporter just days after George Stephanopoulos abruptly cut off JD Vance during a heated interview .

Officials said at the Thursday press conference that Lakanwal drove across the country from his home in Bellingham, Washington, to DC before he fired at the troops on Wednesday afternoon with a .357 revolver

The President was taking questions from reporters following a meeting with Argentinian President Javier Milei when he snubbed the broadcaster, offering a blunt explanation for his decision.

'You're ABC fake news,' Trump said as a reporter tried to ask him a question .

'I don't take questions from ABC fake news after what you did with Stephanopoulos to the Vice President of the United States, I don't take questions from ABC fake news,' he declared.

Stephanopoulos had been interviewing the vice-president when the conversation spiraled out of control.

Earlier Thursday, Trump solemnly announced that National Guard Sarah Beckstrom, 20, had died from her injuries, describing her as an 'incredible person' and 'outstanding in every way'.

Her colleague, Andrew Wolfe, 24, remains in a critical condition in hospital.

Accused gunman Lakanwal, an Afghan national who entered the United States in 2021 during the mass evacuation that followed the collapse of the US-backed Afghan government.

Officials said he drove from Bellingham, Washington, across the country to the nation's capital before opening fire with a .357 revolver.

National Guard members, Staff Sgt Andrew Wolfe and Specialist Sarah Beckstrom were shot. Beckstrom later died from her injuries on Thursday

Afghan soldier Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, has been named as the alleged gunman

Federal authorities are investigating the attack as an act of terrorism.

According to US officials, Lakanwal worked with the CIA during the Afghanistan war. CIA Director John Ratcliffe confirmed that relationship.

'This individual  and so many others  should have never been allowed to come here. Our citizens and servicemembers deserve far better than to endure the ongoing fallout from the Biden Administration's catastrophic failures,' Ratcliffe said.

He also confirmed: 'Lakanwal worked with the CIA as a member of a partner force in Kandahar.'

Kandahar served as a Taliban stronghold and saw intense combat following the Sept. 11 attacks. The CIA relied heavily on Afghan operatives during the conflict.

According to #AfghanEvac, Lakanwal's asylum was approved in April under the Trump administration after fingerprinting, iris scans, background checks, interviews, and formal risk assessments.

A US official later told CNN the suspect was 'clean on all checks' both before working with the US government and again before entering the country.

Humanitarian groups have warned against weaponizing the crime.

'I don't want people to leverage this tragedy into a political ploy,' said Shawn VanDiver, president of #AfghanEvac.
Detectives are investigating evidence linking a Serbian assassin to the unsolved murder of Jill Dando.

The BBC Crimewatch presenter, 37, was shot in the head on the doorstep of her home on Gowan Avenue, Fulham, in April 1999. Her killer has never been found.

CCTV footage showing an unidentified man, known as Man X, walking along the gunman's likely escape route around 20 minutes after Ms Dando's murder is one of few leads examined by police.

Milorad Ulemek, 57, a Serbian former paramilitary commander and convicted assassin who is serving a 40-year prison sentence, has also been named as a possible suspect in the case.

Now, new evidence has prompted the Metropolitan Police to re-examine his involvement in Ms Dando's murder.

Among the latest revelations is a picture of the convicted double-killer wearing a stripy blue tie similar to the one worn by Man X in the CCTV footage.

The photo shows Ulemek, known by his nickname Legija, next to his first wife, former Journalist Maja Lukovic, and was supposedly taken in Serbia at some time between 1992 and 1998.

A witness also previously claimed that a man she saw 'running for his life' from the scene bears a resemblance to the notorious assassin.

Jill Dando who was shot in the head on the doorstep of her home on Gowan Avenue, Fulham, in April 1999

The first image shows CCTV footage of an unidentified man, known as Man X, walking along the gunman's likely escape route. The second shows Milorad Ulemek, 57, wearing a stripy blue tie like the one worn by Man X

Emi Polito, a facial comparison expert, was commissioned by the Mirror to examine the similarities between the ties worn in both photos.

He found the most 'significant' was similarity is a number of dark tones in the light stripes of Man X's tie which mirror the one worn by Ulemek.

Both ties also have the same 'general form and style' and three dark stripes 'broadly similar size and tone'. The appearance of the ties under the knot is also similar.

But Mr Polito said the analysis 'moderately supports' the claim that they are the same tie, although he warned that the poor quality of the CCTV makes it impossible to reach a more definitive judgement.

The original CCTV is supposedly among 223 boxes of material that are being held in police deep storage. Modern forensic imaging should help officers decide whether to treat Ulemek as a subject, the Mirror reported.

The Met Police told the newspaper that detectives are 'assessing this information to understand whether it's a new and realistic line of enquiry.'

After Ms Dando was killed, the BBC received a call saying she was targeted in revenge for a recent Nato attack on a TV station in Belgrade, Serbia, in which 17 people died.

Weeks earlier she had hosted a television appeal that raised 54 million for Kosovan refugees who fled Serbian paramilitaries during the civil war in the former Yugoslavia.

At the time of Jill's death, Ulemek led a squad of assassins targeting those opposing dictator Slobodan Milosevic.

The Daily Mail's front page the day after Jill Dando was murdered on April 27, 1999

The journalist's tragic and brutal death has long been the subject of intense speculation

Notorious assassin Milorad Lukovic Ulemek, alias Legija, seen in May 2004

Mr Polito has previously been commissioned to compare the CCTV of Man X to the assassin.

He gave 'limited support' to the theory that Ulemek looks like the unidentified person along the gunman's likely escape route. This is the second lowest on a subjective scale range from 'no support' to 'powerful support'.

Mr Polito alleges the assassin and Man X share a similarly shaped mouth, chin and hairline. The Mirror reports the expert as saying the general shape and sizes of their noses and ear are also the same.

But the CCTV imagery was blurry and he clarified that his observations only add 'light weight' to the theory that they're the same person.

The man on the CCTV is a white male with dark hair in a dark suit, thought to have been born in the 60s.

He was seen about a mile away from the murder scene, by Putney Bridge underground station. He bought a ticket, went through the barriers but then left the station through another exit.

He was 'sweating heavily' and speaking into a mobile phone when he took the bus to the tube station a few minutes after the incident, according to The Mirror.

The newspaper said that Ulemek was in his 30s at the time and of a similar build.

Meanwhile, speaking to a witness who saw the mystery man running from the area, The Mirror quoted her as saying: 'It's him'.

She told the newspaper 'I've no doubt' and said: 'I'm bad for remembering names but I'm good with faces'.

CCTV footage shows the television presenter on the morning of her death

Gowan Avenue, Fulham, London, where Jill Dando was shot dead in 1999

A 9mm Beretta pistol and magazine which was found shortly before midday on the foreshore of the Thames near Putney Bridge in west London, was being examined by forensic experts

Six distinctive marks were found on the cartridge case used by the gunman who killed Jill

A month before Jill died, Ulemek was asked to murder a 'leading journalist', a court heard previously. But he declined, he said, because he was needed in Kosovo.

The Crimewatch star once time admitted that her role on the show left her in fear of retribution from the criminals she sought to expose.

And in 1999, she featured on Crimewatch as the victim of a brutal assassination two years later. Her career meant there was an extensive list of suspects.

It has long been suspected that she was shot by a professional assassin.

In 1999, Detective Chief Inspector Hamish Campbell was a senior investigating officer in the Met's murder squad, based in Kensington, West London.

He had never met Jill, though she had made an appeal on Crimewatch for one of his old murder inquiries and they had attended the same lunch at Scotland Yard, where she had spoken of her fears of a 'hit' being carried out on a Crimewatch presenter.

When told by a colleague that reports were coming through that a woman had been 'stabbed' in Fulham, Campbell decided to take a sergeant and go see for himself as it it was a 'very unusual' crime for that area of London.

As he drove down, he received a call from his chief superintendent who said to him bluntly, 'that case, that's going to be Jill Dando', it was heard in a Netflix documentary which aired last year.
Two Iranian men and a naturalised British citizen have been arrested after a crime network helping migrants work illegally across the UK has been exposed.

More than 100 mini-marts, car washes and barber shops operating from Dundee to south Devon have been linked to the crime network.

Two Iranian men aged 32 and 28 were arrested have been arrested after multiple addresses in Birmingham and the West Midlands were raided by immigration officers.

A third man, described as a naturalised British citizen aged 43 by the Home Office, was also arrested.

The three men are being held on suspicion of facilitating illegal entry to the UK and facilitating illegal working.

Earlier this month, an investigation was 'immediately launched' after BBC News' uncovered a criminal network enabling migrants to work in mini-marts across the UK - despite having no legal right to employment in Britain.

The syndicate was discovered in an undercover operation that saw reporters pose as asylum seekers keen to purchase a shop that they could operate off the books - in exchange for a monthly fee paid to 'ghost directors'.

These individuals take on the shops in their name but play no part in the running of the businesses - and claim to face little scrutiny, with dozens of stores to their name on Companies House.

Two Iranian men aged 32 and 28 were arrested have been arrested after multiple addresses in Birmingham and the West Midlands were raided by immigration officers

A third man, described as a naturalised British citizen aged 43 by the Home Office, was also arrested

The three men are being held on suspicion of facilitating illegal entry to the UK and facilitating illegal working

The stores are then run by asylum seekers whose names are nowhere near the business and have no right to work in the UK.

Many of them sell illegal cigarettes and vapes, including to children, seemingly without fear of being discovered.

They also employ others on pitiful wages as low as 4 an hour.

Andy Radcliffe, Assistant Director from Immigration Enforcement, is leading the probe into the allegations involving HMRC, the National Crime Agency, Companies House, police forces and Trading Standards.

Mr Radcliffe said: 'We're taking this very seriously...people could go to prison for this, we could take assets off them, so we're taking it very seriously.'

The Home Office launched the investigation after it was uncovered that more than 100 businesses were linked to a Kurdish criminal network that enables migrants to work in mini-marts across the UK - despite having no legal right to employment in Britain.

One asylum seeker, who says his claim was rejected, was found to be trying to sell a mini-mart for 18,000 cash without using an accountant.

Secret camera footage also showed him telling the reporters how he could avoid paying for electricity bills - by using a trick to stop the meter from working.

The Kurdish migrant said he paid another man 250 a month to have his name on the business documents.

He told the reporters he had never paid council tax and had not registered the company.

He also admitted that he had regular customers as young as 12 buying tobacco and vapes.

The shop worker also told them how he kept the bulk of his stock in an untaxed car to conceal it from Trading Standards officers during the day.

Another man was exposed who said he had 'customers in every city' and could wipe illegal working fines worth up to 60,000.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood admitted that these kinds of criminal networks 'create an incentive for people to come here illegally'.

Questioned by the BBC, last week, Ms Mahmood said: 'What your reporters were able to scrutinise and show is absolutely evidence of why our system is broken.

'It's why this government has been cracking down on illegal working.'

In the Budget, Rachel Reeves announced funding for 45 new Trading Standards officers and said there would be 'additional enforcement activity on High Streets, focusing on illicit tobacco and vaping products'.
Kevin Spacey will face sex assault claims from three men in a three-week High Court civil trial in 2026.

Three men, Ruari Cannon, who has waived his right to anonymity, and two others who have not, allege the actor abused them between 2000 and 2015.

They claim to have met the Hollywood star, 66, through his position as an artistic director at the Old Vic Theatre.

All three men are taking legal action against Mr Spacey at the High Court, meanwhile, Mr Cannon is also bringing action against the theatre.

Mr Spacey denies the allegations, and in 2023, he was acquitted of nine sex offences relating to four men.

Elizabeth-Ann Gumbel KC, for the three men, said on Wednesday that the cases should be heard together.

In a written submission for a hearing, she added that this would mean the men and Mr Spacey would not have to give evidence more than once.

'If the cases were heard separately, the defendant would need to give evidence in each case and be available for trial on three separate occasions,' she said.

Three men are taking legal action against Kevin Spacey (pictured at the Filming Italy Venice Award in 2025) at the High Court in 2026

Ruari Cannon, (pictured in 2012) who has waived his right to anonymity, and two others who have not, allege the actor abused them between 2000 and 2015

'Each of the claimants will be a witness in the other claimants' cases and a number of other witnesses will be called in support of each claimant's case.'

Meanwhile, William McCormick KC, for Spacey, said the case of a man known as LNP should be heard in the country court, separate from the two other men.

He said, 'on a rational analysis', the only common feature between Cannon, a man known as GHI and LNP's cases is the American actor.

'The fact that he met, or in the case of Cannon, is said to have met, each claimant in the context of his work at the Old Vic takes matters no further,' he said.

'The circumstances of the alleged assaults are markedly different and occur many years apart.'

Mrs Justice Lambert, sitting with Judge David Cook, set a provisional three-week window for all three cases to be heard in the High Court next October.

Claire Glasgow, of Fieldfisher, the law firm representing the three men, said after the hearing: 'Today was a good outcome for the claimants that all three claims stay in the High Court and we look forward to receiving Mr Spacey's defence on LNP.

'The judge confirmed that all three claims will be case-managed together so that similar allegations will be tried at the same time or sequentially by the same judge.

'This will hopefully ease some of the stress for our clients.'
The floor-to-floor search for bodies has begun in Hong Kong's scorched skyscrapers where hundreds of people are feared to have died.

At least 128 people are now known to have been killed in the blaze that started Wednesday at Wang Fuk Court in the suburban Tai Po district.

Dozens more were injured, and about 900 of the 4,800 residents were evacuated to temporary shelter.

Photographs show emergency workers bringing out the first victims from the blackened towers, as well as the pets that miraculously survived the inferno.

Seven of the eight 32-story towers in the building complex were engulfed in flames after construction materials and bamboo scaffolding spread the fire. Officials said extreme heat was hampering rescue efforts.

Officials are investigating why construction materials, netting and bamboo scaffolding being used in renovations to the exterior of the buildings caught fire.

In the meantime, authorities arrested three people, the directors and an engineering consultant of a construction company, on suspicion of manslaughter.

Police did not name the company, but they searched the office of Prestige Construction & Engineering Co., which was in charge of the renovations. Phone calls to the company's offices went unanswered.

Officials said they suspect that some materials, such as plastic foam panels being used to protect windows from damage, did not meet fire resistance standards. High winds helped spread the flames.

Animal rescue workers carry a dog recovered from the fire-ravaged Wang Fuk Court housing complex, in Tai Po, Hong Kong, China November 28, 2025

A bouquet of flowers near the buildings at the scene of where a major fire engulfed several residential buildings at Wang Fuk Court on November 28, 2025 in Hong Kong. Hong Kong Building Fire

A body is transferred to be identified in the aftermath of a major fire that swept through several apartment blocks at the Wang Fuk Court residential estate in Hong Kong's Tai Po district on November 28, 2025.

It took more than 1,000 firefighters some 24 hours to bring the blaze under control, and even nearly two days later, smoke continued to drift out of the charred skeletons of the buildings from the occasional flare-up.

The final search of the buildings was expected to be completed later on Friday at which point officials have said they will officially end the rescue phase of their operation at the complex in Tai Po district, a northern suburb near Hong Kong's border with mainland China.

It was unclear how many people could possibly be inside the buildings, which had almost 2,000 apartments.

'We will endeavour to force entry into all the units of the seven blocks concerned so as to ensure that there are no other possible casualties,' said Derek Armstrong Chan, a deputy director of Hong Kong Fire Services.

Firefighters struggled to bring the blaze under control as their ladders and hoses could only reach just over halfway up the 32-story buildings, or about 174 feet - under 20 stories.

High winds and extremely high heat may have prevented use of aerial equipment such as helicopters. The high temperatures also deterred firefighters from entering the buildings to fight the blaze and rescue survivors, said Derek Armstrong Chan, a deputy director of Hong Kong's Fire Services.

Hong Kong leader John Lee said the government would set up a task force to investigate the fire and the case would be submitted to the Coroner's Court, which conducts inquiries into the causes and circumstances of certain deaths.

Lee said the government planned to inspect all housing estates undergoing major repairs to review the safety of scaffolding and construction materials. He also promised to provide 'all possible support' to those affected by the fire.

The hundreds of survivors who were evacuated or were outside the buildings at the time the fire started were staying in temporary shelters, including a nearby school.

There, workers were distributing bottled water, food and other necessities. Volunteers were bringing supplies like water and snacks.

More than 70 people were injured, including about a dozen firefighters, the city's Fire Services Department said.

Among the dead was a 37-year-old firefighter, who was found with burns on his face half an hour after losing contact with colleagues.

He had been with the service for nine years.

About a third of Hong Kong residents live in the government's Housing Authority dwellings. Wang Fuk Court is privately owned but subsidised housing built in the 1980s.

A view of the rubble in the aftermath of the Tai Po apartment fire in Hong Kong, China, November 28, 2025

Firefighters scoured the torched high-rise buildings in the apartment complex for scores of people listed as missing

Health workers examine a body near residential buildings damaged by fire at Wang Fuk Court in the Tai Po district on November 28, 2025 in Hong Kong

Emergency responders carry a body at the scene of the Tai Po apartment fire in Hong Kong, China, 28 November 2025

People look at donated clothes near residential buildings damaged by fire at Wang Fuk Court in the Tai Po district on November 28, 2025 in Hong Kong, China

The basic apartments in the complex measure 430-485 square feet, according to online real estate listings. Like most Hong Kong mass market housing, they appear to lack smoke detectors or sprinkler systems.

The buildings were constructed before revisions to Hong Kong's fire codes required mandatory fire refuge floors.

Hong Kong's 7.5 million residents mostly live in cramped apartments crammed on scarce flat lands or perched on the slopes of steep mountainsides. Many of those high-rise buildings are crowded closely together.

The fire was deadlier than a 1996 blaze in a commercial building in Kowloon that killed 41 people. A warehouse fire in 1948 killed 176 people.

Police said the company leaders in charge of the renovation of the apartments were suspected of gross negligence and seized bidding documents, a list of employees, 14 computers and three mobile phones in a raid of the construction business' office.

The apartments from which a total of 25 unanswered rescue calls were received, which are being prioritised, were primarily on higher floors, where the fire was last to be extinguished, Mr Chan said.

Most of the casualties were in the first two buildings to catch fire.

The apartment complex housed many older people.

A woman is seen crying near residential buildings that continue to burn at Wang Fuk Court in the Tai Po district on November 27, 2025 in Hong Kong, Chin

Thick smoke and flames rise as a major fire engulfs several apartment blocks at the Wang Fuk Court residential estate in Hong Kong's Tai Po district on November 26, 2025

A man reacts, as smoke rises while flames engulf bamboo scaffolding across multiple buildings at Wang Fuk Court housing estate, in Tai Po, Hong Kong, China, November 26, 2025

Thick smoke and flames rise as a major fire engulfs several apartment blocks at the Wang Fuk Court residential estate in Hong Kong's Tai Po district on November 26, 2025

Among the dead was a 37-year-old firefighter, who was found with burns on his face half an hour after losing contact with colleagues

People gathered on a nearby overhead walkway, watching in dismay as smoke billowed from the buildings while scores of fire engines and ambulances lined the road below the complex

Crowds gathered in nearby streets and public areas to organise aid for displaced residents and firefighters, part of a spontaneous effort that drew people from across the city.

'It's truly touching. The spirit of Hong Kong people is that when one is in trouble, everyone lends support... It shows that Hong Kong people are full of love,' Stone Ngai, 38, one of the organisers of an impromptu aid station, told AFP.

Multiple residents of Wang Fuk Court said that they did not hear any fire alarm and had to go door-to-door to alert neighbours to the danger.

'The fire spread so quickly. I saw one hose trying to save several buildings, and I felt it was far too slow,' said a man surnamed Suen, recalling his plight the day before.

'Ringing doorbells, knocking on doors, alerting the neighbours, telling them to leave - that's what the situation was like.'

Another displaced resident, Wong Sik-kam, recalled how his son was one of the firefighters dispatched to the scene.

'My son called me and told me about the fire... I thought it was just a normal fire, like a kitchen accident that would be put out. Who knew it would get so bad?' Wong said.

As firefighters battled floor by floor in the flaming housing complex to find survivors and reunite them with fearful relatives, another band of volunteers swung into action to rescue the estate's pets.

Dozens of workers from Hong Kong's animal welfare agencies turned out with oxygenated pet carriers and animal ambulances to search for pets in the blazing complex, as social media posts depicted elderly people weeping for animals they left behind in the rush to save human lives.

Some animal welfare workers carrying cages even negotiated with police to allow them through cordons keeping out the public.

'Pet owners contacted our alliance and we compiled a list of more than 100 cases,' said Anson Cheng, of the animal welfare group Hong Kong Guardians.

'We shared the cases with firefighters so that they can help check the flats and pick up the pets if they see them.'

By Thursday morning, at least 10 cats, seven dogs and several turtles had been rescued.

Hong Kong's system of micro-chipping dogs and cats meant it was possible that some survivors could be reunited with pets that managed to escape the blaze, said Cheng.

Huddling under a blanket in a nearby park, a woman surnamed Law said she had been waiting for her cat and had been searching online platforms for news.

She had left 10-year-old Fa when she fled her apartment, expecting to return.

'It was a very small fire when I went down,' she said. 'Half an hour later, the fire already went all the way to the top. Nearby areas were also burning, there's no way to get back in. I feel bad.'

Hong Kong's anti-corruption agency said on Thursday it was investigating possible corruption relating to the renovation project.

Authorities planned immediate inspections of housing estates undergoing major renovations to ensure scaffolding and construction materials meet safety standards.
Keir Starmer is braced for Angela Rayner to join a brewing Labour revolt over ditching a key plank of workers' rights reforms today.

The PM faces fury for breaking another manifesto pledge after abruptly abandoning 'day one' rights to sue for unfair dismissal last night.

But the situation could become dramatically worse for Sir Keir if his former deputy - who championed the overhaul - publicly condemns him.

Close allies of Ms Rayner have made clear their anger, but she has yet to respond amid intense speculation at Westminster that she wants to make a return to the political frontline. The MP was forced to resign in September after admitting underpaying tens of thousands of pounds of stamp duty.

Sent out to defend the government on the airwaves this morning, Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson admitted she had not spoken to Ms Rayner.

Keir Starmer is braced for Angela Rayner to join a brewing Labour revolt over ditching a key plank of workers' rights reforms today

The situation could become dramatically worse for Sir Keir if his former deputy Ms Rayner (pictured) - who championed the overhaul - publicly condemns him

Ex-employment minister Justin Madders, a key ally of Ms Rayner who was sacked in Sir Keir's reshuffle earlier this year, said the manifesto had been broken

Former shadow chancellor John McDonnell was among those condemning the U-turn

Labour MPs have been voicing alarm at the prospect of more 'backsliding' on the plans

The humiliating U-turn capped a dire week after widespread criticism of the Budget's massive tax raid. Ministers have denied that package explicitly broke the manifesto, despite the IFS think-tank and other experts arguing it did.

Just days ago Downing Street insisted it would resist all attempts to water down the employment plans.

'The Employment Rights Bill is good for workers, it's good for businesses and it's good for the economy, and we will overturn all attempts to scupper these plans including watering down Day One protection from unfair dismissal,' the PM's spokesman said on Monday.

The right had been a key Labour manifesto pledge and Left-wingers accused the government of a 'sellout'.

But employers had warned the move would become a shirkers' charter and destroy opportunities for young people trying to get their first job.

Ministers were also locked in a standoff with the House of Lords, where opposition peers were delaying the entire Employment Rights Bill over the issue.

A 'compromise' brokered at secret talks with business and union leaders will put the threshold at six months. Day one rights to sick pay will still go ahead.

Ms Phillipson said this morning that the legislation could have been delayed for a year without the concession.

'There has been discussion on the point around unfair dismissal and the time period between businesses, the TUC and Government, and following that discussion there's been agreement about the way forward, which is welcome,' she said.

'It means that the time limit will come down from two years to six months, and that runs alongside important day-one rights around sick pay and around parental leave. But the risk here was that if we didn't make progress, those important rights wouldn't come into force from April next year.'

She insisted it was not a broken manifesto promise, because Labour's election document had committed to a consultation.

The manifesto said 'we will consult fully with businesses, workers, and civil society on how to put our plans into practice before legislation is passed' but went on: 'This will include banning exploitative zero hours contracts; ending fire and rehire; and introducing basic rights from day one to parental leave, sick pay, and protection from unfair dismissal.'

Asked if it was a broken promise, Ms Phillipson said: 'In the manifesto, what we said was that we would work with trade unions, with business, with civil society, in consulting on those protections that we'd be bringing forward.

'So, there are both parts to that, within the manifesto, the important rights and the consultation.'

Speaking to broadcasters last night, Business Secretary Peter Kyle insisted the compromise had been found by 'unions and the employers' and 'it's not my job to stand in the way of that compromise'.

'They've gone through the difficult process of working together to find a compromise it's my job to accept it,' he said.

Mr Kyle also denied the concession was a breach of Labour's manifesto.

But ex-employment minister Justin Madders, a key ally of Ms Rayner who was sacked in Sir Keir's reshuffle earlier this year, rejected the claim.

'It might be a compromise. It might even be necessary to get the Bill passed (as soon as possible). But it most definitely is a manifesto breach,' the MP for Ellesmere Port and Bromborough said.

Unite boss Sharon Graham said the Bill had become 'a shell of its former self' while TUC general secretary Paul Nowak said the 'absolute priority' was to get the legislation on to the statute books.

'Following the Government's announcement, it is now vital that peers respect Labour's manifesto mandate and that this Bill secures royal assent as quickly as possible,' Mr Nowak said.

Ms Graham said: 'These constant row-backs will only damage workers' confidence that the protections promised will be worth the wait. Labour needs to keep its promises.'

Business groups welcomed Thursday's concession, saying the qualifying period of six months was 'crucial for businesses' confidence to hire and to support employment, at the same time as protecting workers'.

However, they warned that firms would 'still have concerns' about many of the powers within the Bill, including thresholds for industrial action, guaranteed hours contracts and seasonal and temporary workers.

'We remain committed to working with Government and unions to dealing with this in the necessary secondary legislation to implement the Bill,' the six industry groups involved in discussions with trade unions said.

Tory leader Kemi Badenoch described the move as 'another humiliating U-turn' for Labour and said the legislation still contains 'measures that will damage businesses and be terrible for economic growth'.

Sent out to defend the government on the airwaves this morning, Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson admitted she had not spoken to Ms Rayner

Clapham and Brixton Hill's Labour MP Bell Ribeiro-Addy told the BBC: 'Rolling back now is a huge problem because if we're rolling back now, what other tweaks are we going to accept? What else are we going to get pushed into? We're literally the Labour Party.

'We are here to make policy for working people and this was one of the best opportunities we had to do that, one of the best in a generation.'

Former shadow chancellor John McDonnell said in a post on X: 'Is this a sellout? Yes it certainly is. If it's unfair to sack someone, it's unfair whenever it occurs whether it's day one or after 6 months. The principle is fairness.'
Pope Leo has starkly warned that World War Three is already being fought and that the future of humanity is at stake.

In his first overseas speech since he was made the leader of the Catholic world in May, the American pope said that 'ambitions and choices that trample on justice and peace' were throwing the world into chaos.

He told political leaders in Turkey that the world was experiencing 'a heightened level of conflict on the global level, fuelled by prevailing strategies of economic and military power'.

'We must in no way give in to this,' he pleaded at an event with Turkish president Tayyip Erdogan after they held a private meeting, adding: 'The future of humanity is at stake'.

According to the Council on Foreign Relations, conflict has been reported in the Americas, Asia, Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

The biggest conflicts include Israel's war against Hamas in Gaza, which has seen airstrikes hit targets across the enclave despite a ceasefire being reached in October, as well as Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the civil war in Sudan.

Speaking to journalists aboard the papal flight from Rome to Ankara, Leo said he wanted to use his first overseas trip to urge peace for the world, and to encourage people of different backgrounds to live together in harmony.

'We hope to announce, transmit, proclaim how important peace is throughout the world,' the pope said at the beginning of the three-hour flight.

Pope Leo (pictured, centre) has starkly warned that World War Three is already being fought and that the future of humanity is at stake

Pope Leo XIV greets a child during a meeting with bishops, priests, deacons, consecrated persons, and pastoral workers at the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit on November 28, 2025 in Istanbul, Turkey

He added that he wanted to 'invite all people to come together, to search for greater unity, greater harmony'.

Leo, 70 and in good health, has a crowded itinerary during his six-day overseas trip.

In Turkey, he will also visit Istanbul's Blue Mosque on Saturday, in his first visit as pope to a Muslim place of worship, and will celebrate a Catholic Mass at the city's Volkswagen Arena.

Peace is expected to be a key theme of the pope's visit to Lebanon, which starts on Sunday.

Lebanon, which has the largest share of Christians in the Middle East, has been rocked by the spillover of the Gaza conflict, as Israel and the Lebanese Shi'ite Muslim militant group Hezbollah went to war, culminating in a devastating Israeli offensive.

Leaders in Lebanon, which hosts 1 million Syrian and Palestinian refugees and is also struggling to recover after years of economic crisis, are worried Israel will dramatically escalate its strikes in coming months and hope the papal visit might bring global attention to the country.
A 33-year-old woman fell 80ft to her death while taking a photograph of a beauty spot from a 'crumbling' cliffside staircase.

Journalist Leticia Lembi was fatally injured after plunging from the cliff in Barranca de Los Lobos in Mar del Plata, Argentina, on Wednesday.

She is said to have been visiting the area with family and friends when the tragedy occurred.

Leticia was reported to have been standing on a deteriorated concrete platform and an old staircase leading down to the beach when she lost her balance and fell around 25 metres (82 feet) onto the rocks below.

Firefighters, paramedics and police officers rushed to the scene, but she was pronounced dead at the scene.

Rescue teams confirmed the impact would have been instantly fatal and mounted an operation to recover the body from the base of the cliff as the tide advanced.

Prosecutor Carlos Russo also attended the scene and has classified the incident as an accidental death, El Pais reported.

Just hours before her death, Leticia had posted a photograph of her smiling while on a visit to a vineyard around 10 miles away from the beach.

Journalist Leticia Lembi was fatally injured after plunging from a cliff in Barranca de Los Lobos in Mar del Plata, Argentina, on Wednesday

Last social post: The 33-year-old had visited Costa&Pampa, the country's first ocean winery, just hours before she tragically fell to her death

Prosecutor Carlos Russo has classified the incident on Wednesday as an accidental death

'Here, playing the wine woman,' the 33-year-old wrote in an Instagram story showing her at Costa&Pampa, the country's first ocean winery.

Leticia was from Tres Arroyos, around 170 miles away from the scene of the incident, and held a degree in Journalism and Social Communication from the National University of La Plata.

As well as her main work in digital marketing, she previously worked as a correspondent for local newspaper La Voz del Pueblo in 2020.

Emergency services mounted an operation to recover the 33-year-old's body after she fell

A view from the cliff at the Argentinian beauty spot where Leticia Lembi fell to her death

At the time of her death, she was working as a strategic coordinator at the digital marketing consultancy Onlera. The agency was founded by her cousin, Santiago Escudero, who was with her when the accident occurred.

In Tres Arroyos, Leticia was known not only for her professional career, but also for her love of dogs and for belonging to a well-known local family.

She posted several pictures of herself on social media posing with her dachshund.

Locals in Mar del Plata stated the staircase and concrete platform where the accident happened had long shown signs of extreme erosion and structural deterioration.

Despite warning signs about the danger of landslides on the cliffs in the area, the viewpoint and access route was still open to visitors and tourists.
Anti-graft investigators have today raided the home and offices of Volodymyr Zelensky's powerful chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, in the latest corruption embarrassment to his the Ukrainian leader.

The country's National Anti-Corruption Agency (NABU) and Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) are 'conducting investigative actions (searches) at the head of the Office of the President of Ukraine', NABU said in a statement.

'The investigative actions are sanctioned and are being carried out as part of an investigation,' NABU said in a statement', the agency added.

Yermak himself has said since this morning's raid that he is fully cooperating with investigators.

The 54-year-old is considered Ukraine's second-most powerful man, having stood by Zelensky's side since he took office in 2019.

But Ukrainian MPs and watchdogs have called for Zelensky's chief of staff to be sacked amid a massive 75million energy corruption scandal that has been the latest embarrassment for the embattled president.

Both NABU and SAPO alleged that a group, including Ukrainian government officials, were collecting bribes from the state nuclear power company, Energoatom.

The group of officials are said to have collected 10-15% of the value of each contract given, amounting to 75million that was unlawfully given to the tiny group - money that could have been used to help defend Ukraine from Russian attacks.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and Head of the Presidential Office Andriy Yermak walk, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine January 22, 2024

Anti-graft investigators have today raided the home and offices of Volodymyr Zelensky's powerful chief of staff, Andriy Yermak (pictured)

Yermak's political opponents have been trying to link him to the scandal that has rocked the embattled nation, claiming that either he or one of his underlings is the anonymous individual referred to as 'Ali Baba' in wiretapped conversations related to the investigation.

Yermak has denied involvement in the scheme, telling German newspaper Welt last week: 'People mention me, and sometimes, absolutely without any evidence, they try to accuse me of things I don't even know about'.

The alleged ringleader and mastermind of the corruption scheme is businessman Timur Mindich, a long-time contact of Zelensky's.

Even before Zelensky's shock rise to high office in 2019, Mindich is said to have been one of his closest associated.

This didn't stop the Ukrainian president from placing sanctions against Mindich, who has since fled Ukraine.

The country, which has been battling with Russia for nearly four years, is on the cusp of agreeing a peace deal brokered by the US.

But Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever has said the European Union's plan to use frozen Russian state assets to fund Ukraine could endanger the chances for a potential peace deal.

'Hastily moving forward on the proposed reparations loan scheme would have, as a collateral damage, that we as EU are effectively preventing reaching an eventual peace deal,' De Wever said in a letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, seen by Reuters.

A man walks on the debris of a burning house, destroyed after a Russian attack in Kharkiv, Ukraine, Thursday, March 24, 2022

Servicemen of the 93rd Kholodnyi Yar Separate Mechanized Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces load in a pickup truck after a combat mission, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, near the frontline town of Kostiantynivka in Donetsk region, Ukraine November 27, 2025

A Malka self-propelled cannon fires towards Ukrainian positions in an undisclosed location in Ukraine on November 28

The Financial Times first reported on the letter late on Thursday.

EU leaders tried at a summit last month to agree on a plan to use 140 billion euros (122billion) in frozen Russian sovereign assets in Europe as a loan for Kyiv, but failed to secure the backing of Belgium, where much of the funds are held.

The European Commission did not respond to a request for comment outside regular business hours.

The European Commission, the EU's executive body, hopes to address Belgium's concerns in a draft legal proposal which it will present this week on using the frozen sovereign assets to support Kyiv in 2026 and 2027, EU officials have said.

In the letter, De Wever also said Belgium had not seen 'any proposed legal language by the commission'.
A teenager died after she was tied up and thrown into a swamp to drown in an honour killing because her Western behaviour shamed her family, according to prosecutors in the Netherlands.

Ryan Al Najjar's brothers have now been put on trial for her murder, while her father, who is accused of ordering the killing, fled the country to return to Syria.

Mohamed, 23, and Muhanad Al Najjar, 25, are charged with taking part in the horrific crime against their 18-year-old sister, whose body was found gagged with her hands bound behind her back, ankles taped together, and submerged in a swamp six days after she vanished from the family home in Joure.

Their father, Khaled, will be tried in absentia. Ryan disappeared on May 22, 2024. A passerby discovered her body on May 28 in Lelystad, about 25 miles north-east of Amsterdam.

Investigators later found DNA belonging to her father under her fingernails, indicating that she had put up a fight.

Dutch prosecutors say Ryan was murdered because she had a boyfriend, behaved in a way her family considered 'Western,' and had 'shamed' them.

The Public Prosecution Service formally designated her killing as an honour crime.

The brothers, whose trial began yesterday, insist they were not involved and say their father carried out the murder alone.

Ryan's body was found in a swamp six days after she disappeared from her family home in the Netherlands. She was gagged and her hands were tied behind her back

A court sketch of suspects Mohammed, right, and Muhanad Al Najjar, accused of helping their father kill their sister. The men have insisted their father acted alone

Your browser does not support iframes.

Khaled allegedly sent two emails to Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf claiming responsibility and saying his sons were innocent. Prosecutors, however, rejected that claim.

They argue that the father told his sons to collect Ryan, drive her to an isolated location, and throw her into the water while she was gagged and weighed down.

The prosecution says the brothers carried out the plan knowing she would die.

Before her death, Ryan was being monitored by the police and was given protection, but that was ended prior to her murder. It has not been revealed why her protection was discontinued.

Both brothers were arrested shortly after the body was located and have remained in custody since then. Their father fled the country and has not been tracked down.

According to the Dutch current-affairs programme Nieuwsuur, Khaled is believed to be living in northern Syria and has remarried since the killing.

The Dutch Ministry of Justice and Security told the programme that the Netherlands currently has no way to secure his return.

'The possibilities for criminal cooperation with Syria are currently not available,' the Ministry said. 'The criminal justice authorities required for this cooperation are not [yet] operational in Syria.'

The teenager's body was discovered by a passerby in a swamp after prosecutors say her father orchestrated her murder

However, Syria's own Ministry of Justice has disputed that assertion. Minister Mazhar al-Wais said the system had been rebuilt and was functioning.

'That may have been the case in the beginning when the regime had just fallen. Now the Syrian justice system has been fully restored,' he said.

He said the country was 'ready', adding that Syria has already received three legal-assistance requests from European nations.

'We will provide the necessary legal assistance in accordance with the regulations.'

The Syrian minister also said his government had never received a request from the Netherlands regarding this case.

The brothers' lawyers had earlier requested that they be released from pre-trial custody. But a judge ruled that they must be held behind bars until their trial.

It has been estimated that cops in the Netherlands provide heavy protection to at least five women per year at risk of honour killings.

Reports from various countries have shown that there has been an increase in honour killings and abuses in Europe over the last twenty to thirty years.

In 2023, a Pakistani couple accused of murdering their 18-year-old daughter after she rejected their demands to marry her cousin were jailed for life in Italy.

Investigators dug up Saman Abbas' body in November 2022 in an abandoned farmhouse near the fields where her father worked. She was found to have suffered a broken neck.

The body of 18-year-old Saman Abbas (pictured) was dug up in November 2022 in an abandoned farmhouse near the fields where her father worked in northern Italy

A year and a half before the discovery, she was last seen alive on CCTV footage walking around the same fields with her parents.

Last year, a Swedish court jailed a Somalian refugee for life after he murdered his seven-months-pregnant girlfriend in 2023.

Saga Forsgren Elneborg, 20, was murdered by her boyfriend, Mohamedamin Abdirisek Ibrahim, who decided to kill her instead of facing the shame of telling his Muslim family that he was expecting a baby with her.

Prosecutors say he strangled her at their home in the city of Orebro in April 2023, in a case that sparked a huge outcry in Sweden.

In Germany, a Muslim mother and father who killed their daughter, 19, after she brought 'shame' on the family because she had sex with a 23-year-old man they did not approve of, were also jailed for life.

Azadullah Khan crept into his daughter, Lareeb's, room as she slept and strangled her while her mother, Shazia, looked on. They then disposed of her body.

The couple, who are from Pakistan, had intended to give Lareeb away in an arranged marriage. They killed her when the police wrote to them to let them know their daughter had been caught trying to steal condoms.
A homeowner has sued an energy giant amid claims that its plans for new electricity pylons near his property have reduced its value by 125,000.

Matt Gready from Dunecht, Aberdeenshire, alleges he was just about to sell his home for around 700,000 before energy firm SSE announced their pylon plans.

As a result of the electric power lines set to be installed just 230 metres from his house, the buyer pulled out.

And when the home was eventually sold, he claims he was 'forced' to sell it for 125,000 less than its initial value.

Now, the father is suing the energy company for himself and thousands of other county locals whose homes have been impacted by SSE's pylon proposals.

He highlighted that while SSE branded itself as a 'champion of fair and just energy transition' they were 'destroying' the values of thousands of properties.

It comes as the company, which is one of three UK transmission line operators, announced plans to build 350 pylons from Kintore to Tealing, Angus.

Not only did it spark 10,600 objections from locals, but caused the sale of Mr Gready's home to collapse entirely, he claims.

Matt Gready (pictured) from Dunecht, Aberdeenshire, alleges he was just about to sell his home for around 700,000 before energy firm SSE announced their pylon plans

He said after SSE announced plans to build pylons within 230 metres of his home, he was forced to sell the Dunecht property (pictured) for 125,000 less

'After seven more buyers pulled out, I was forced to sell at 575,000,' he told The Telegraph.

He requested SSE compensate him for the loss, however, the firm has refused to engage and denied liability entirely.

'They told me they didn't want to offer compensation for fear of setting a precedent, but their plans caused me a direct loss of 125,000 and SSE should compensate me for that.'

Alexander Burnett, MSP for Aberdeenshire West has setn a letter to the Scottish Government and the energy firm, saying those affected by their pylon plans should be compensated.

The lives of locals have been 'turned upside down' by the 'hugely damaging' proposals.

'Neither SSE nor the Government have any understanding of the magnitude of this issue and the misery it is causing for communities who are fearing for their future,' the politician added.

The 350 pylons stretching from Kintore to Tealing were part of the company's 22billion Pathway to 2030 investment programme.

The initiative will see electricity carried from wind farms from rural areas of the country to cities in England and southern Scotland.

Pictured: The property's living room. Mr Gready said the initial sale and seven more fell through amid the pylon plans

Pictured: Mr Gready's former kitchen. SSE had announced plans to build 350 pylons from Kintore to Tealing, Angus

Not only did it spark 10,600 objections from locals, but caused the sale of Mr Gready's home to collapse entirely, he claims (Pictured: A bedroom at the Scottish home)

Holyrood and Westminster have both declared that plans like these were key to decarbonising the country's electricity system.

Power transmission firms say pylons have no or very little impact on the value of homes, as residents become accustomed to the buzzing noises they produce.

Meanwhile, research from the London School of Economics has warned that such schemes determined the exact opposite.

Professor Steve Gibbons and former PhD student, Cheng Keat Tang, concluded that a property's value dropped by 20 per cent when pylons were built within 250 metres.

The research suggested that compensating homes for pylon schemes could become 'very large' as 28 million homes are located within 1500 metres of the structures, resulting in a 24billion in 2024 house prices.

Researchers also forewarned that pylons could have a similar devastating impact as wind and solar farms.

An SSE spokesman said: 'We're sorry to hear of Mr Gready's concerns and have been in regular dialogue with him to better understand these. In this case, we don't consider that a legal basis has been established to substantiate an award of compensation.

'In developing our proposals, we have carefully balanced a range of environmental, technical and economic considerations.'
China's defense ministry warns Japan of heavy price for intervention into Taiwan question

Xinhua) 10:06, November 28, 2025

BEIJING, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- China's defense ministry on Thursday warned Japan that should it dare to cross the red line and invite troubles to itself, it is destined to pay a heavy price.

"The Taiwan question is purely an internal affair of China, and how to solve the Taiwan question has nothing to do with Japan," Jiang Bin, a spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, said in response to the progress of a Japanese plan to station medium-range surface-to-air missiles at Yonaguni Island about 110 kilometers east of China's Taiwan region.

"The People's Liberation Army has strong capabilities and reliable means to defeat any aggressors," he said.

Noting that this year marks the 80th anniversary of Taiwan's restoration, Jiang criticized Japan for suggesting military intervention into a so-called Taiwan contingency, instead of repenting for its war crimes of invading and colonizing Taiwan.

This dangerous approach, Jiang warned, will uproot the post-WWII international order and lead Japan to repeat the mistakes of its militarist past.

When commenting on Japan's air-defense missiles sales to the United States and discussions on increasing its defense spending, Jiang called on the international community to be on high alert, as Japan's revisionist attempts, including drastically increasing its defense budget, relaxing restrictions on weapons export, and attempting to intervene militarily into the Taiwan question, pose serious threats to regional peace and stability.

"We urge the Japanese side to fully repent for its war crimes and immediately abandon dangerous attempts. Any attempt to repeat the evil path of aggression and expansion and undermine the post-WWII international order will not succeed," he said.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
One of the brothers behind Liverpool's notorious Huyton Firm has been jailed for 18 years after breaking his cover while on the run in the Netherlands by going on an alcohol-fuelled bender.

Francis Coggins had managed to evade the authorities for five years before he was arrested by Dutch police for being drunk and disorderly.

The 60-year-old had been living in the coastal town of Zandvoort, where he bought cocaine and heroin before shipping it to the UK via the UPS network.

He remained at large after his younger brother Vincent, 59 - who focused on the gang's UK operations - was arrested and jailed in 2020.

Liverpool Crown Court heard yesterday that Francis Coggins was arrested by beat officers from the Dutch National Police.

He was found 'collapsed' in the street outside a residential property.

Coggins made his first appearance at a court in Amsterdam to begin the process of extradition to the UK on June 4.

He was returned in late August after consenting to extradition and in September pleaded guilty to a series of drugs charges, including conspiracy to import and supply cocaine.

Coggins sent drugs from mainland Europe to North Wales by putting them into parcels with UPS waybills attached.

The packages were sent using genuine account numbers, predominately for unsuspecting clothing company G-Star Raw, with the waybill stating that the receiver would pay the costs of shipping.

Francis Coggins had managed to evade the authorities for five years before he was arrested by Dutch police for being drunk and disorderly. He had rarely been pictured before this mugshot

Coggins sent drugs from mainland Europe to North Wales by putting them into parcels with UPS waybills attached

The parcels were addressed to real homes in the area covered by UPS's Deeside depot in North Wales, but intercepted by a corrupt worker who then passed the drugs onto couriers to be distributed to other UK gangs.

Over just a year, Coggins oversaw the import of more than a tonne of class A drugs with a minimum wholesale value of over 16m.

Alex Langhorn, prosecuting, told Liverpool Crown Court: 'The OCG which were engaged in sourcing, storing and supplying wholesale, multi-kilogram quantities of cocaine and diamorphine, more commonly known as heroin.

'They sold to people locally on Merseyside, across the country, and in Scotland.

'Francis Coggins, based in the Netherlands, organised the importation of drugs being supplied by the group. Vincent Coggins, although kept up to date with when imports were due to arrive, was focused on the domestic operation - the supply of cocaine and diamorphine in England and Wales.

'Francis Coggins was also involved in this aspect of the business and negotiated directly, and via others like Paul Fitzsimmons and Edward Robert Jarvis, deals for the supply of cocaine and diamorphine - approving the giving of credit and the prices to be charged.'

Prosecutors said the two brothers were 'equals, each with their own areas of responsibility, albeit those working for them in the United Kingdom, such as Mr Fitzsimmons and Mr Jarvis, appeared to have deferred to Francis Coggins as to the prices which should be charged'.

Messages showed both of the Coggins brothers were referred to as 'gaffa' or 'headmaster' by other members of the gang.

Their gang - known as the Huyton Firm - supplied 350kg of drugs over a three-month period in the spring and early summer of 2020.

The operation earned them huge profits, with 880,000 of cash collected over just one two-week period.

The Huyton Firm had a reputation for extreme violence and employed Thomas Cashman, the murderer of nine-year-old Olivia Pratt-Korbel, as a hitman.

Their downfall began on May 23, 2020, when one of their stash houses in Merseyside was raided and 1million of cocaine stolen.

Vincent Coggins (left) was the head of Merseyside's notorious Huyton Firm and ordered attacks on rivals like the one that killed Olivia. Huyton firm hitman Thomas Cashman (right) was jailed for life for murdering nine-year-old Olivia Pratt-Korbel in August 2022

The court heard that in the following days, 'it was Vincent Coggins who took the lead in seeking to identify the culprits and recover the money', blackmailing and threatening the family he believed responsible for the robbery to hand over money and property.

Mr Langhorn told the court: 'Vincent Coggins was the driving force behind the conspiracy to blackmail, and whilst Francis Coggins did not encourage his brother to use violence, nor did he dissuade him from doing what they considered necessary to recover the drugs counselling him on how they might identify those responsible.

'He was also kept up to date by others about what had occurred and what was known about the robbery.

'It would seem that whilst he wanted to know what was going on he was content to let his brother deal with the issue, not least as in the context of messages being exchanged about new information someone had been able to find on their police records for them Francis Coggins asked his brother, ''how man more peopled we terrorism there all terrified off you really (sic)''.'

In mitigation, Sam Blom-Cooper, defending, told the court that his client's responsibility in the 'bleak coastal town' of Zandvoort was the 'physical handling of drugs, inspection of drugs, giving customers an idea of the quality of drugs and putting them into the UPS system.'

Mr Blom-Cooper put to the court that his client fell below Vincent Coggins in the crime group hierarchy.

He said: 'The overall decision maker was Vincent Coggins. Vincent Coggins himself says ''boss of the Huyton Firm, aren't I''.

'If there was a case of joint decision making it is not a comment he would have made. It is clear he is at the pinnacle of the group.'

Mr Blom-Cooper added: '[Francis Coggins] is physically there, he is exposing himself to a level of risk that Mr Gibney (who organised the North Wales importation plot) and Vincent Coggins did not do.

'You don't have Vincent Coggins engaging physically with the drugs in the same way Francis Coggins is...he is there on his own because part of his role is to roll his sleeves up and deal with the drugs physically.'

Olivia was hit by a stray bullet as a gunman chased another man in to her house

But Judge Robert Trevor-Jones told Francis Coggins, who appeared to the court via video link from HMP Manchester, disagreed with the mitigation and said his position was at the head of the crime group with his younger brother.

Sentencing, the judge told him: 'In conclusion, you were directing or organising the buying and or selling of these drugs on a commercial scale. You had substantial links and influence on others in a chain and you had an expectation of a substantial financial advantage.'

Francis, who wore a grey prison-issue sweatshirt and glasses and sported greying, brown hair, was sentenced to 18 years in prison.

The father, who was supported in court by a large number of his family, muttered 'thank you' after hearing his sentence.

Vincent Coggins and eight other members of the crime group, including Jarvis, money man Fitzsimmons, enforcer Paul Woodford and drug dealer Michael Earle were arrested in June 2020 as part of an investigation by the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit (NWROCU), codenamed Operation SubZero.

The gang were sentenced to a total of more than 150 years in prison.
The leader of a staff association for rank-and-file police officers has received a 100 per cent bonus for the past two years as he was paid 1.4million over the period.

Mukund Krishna, chief executive of the Police Federation of England and Wales, received a total annual remuneration of 701,100 for each of 2024 and 2025.

The former management consultant's annual salary had already been disclosed on Tuesday as 342,000 after a freedom of information request by a police officer.

But now, the federation has also said he received a 100 per cent bonus 'retention payment' and a 5 per cent contribution of 17,000 to his pension for each year.

Mr Krishna's total remuneration means he receives the biggest paycheque of any trade association or union leader in Britain, according to The Times.

Shadow home secretary Chris Philp said: 'This is a staggeringly large amount of money. The Police Federation members should think very carefully about questions of appropriateness and value for money.'

But the federation claimed Mr Krishna, who became the organisation's first chief executive in 2023, has helped save it tens of millions of pounds in liabilities.

Bosses said their liabilities over two historic group action claims by members which related to pensions changes and a cyber attack could have been 110million.

Mukund Krishna is chief executive of the Police Federation of England and Wales

The federation settled both cases for 40million, saving it 70million, and said it had 'resolved potentially catastrophic legal risks at a fraction of the potential liability'.

But police officer Lee Broadbent, who led the pensions action, told the newspaper that members agreed to the lower amount to avoid bankrupting the federation.

He added: 'To suggest [the federation] got the liability down because of savvy negotiating is insulting.

'It has been worked out that Krishna has earned in two years what a police officer would make in 30 years. At a time when some officers are using food banks it is grotesque.'

The salary details were published after an FOI request from Greater Manchester Police chief inspector Rob Riddell request was turned down, and he complained to the Information Commissioner's Office.

Shadow home secretary Chris Philp said: 'This is a staggeringly large amount of money'

A spokesman for the Police Federation of England and Wales told the Daily Mail: 'Since 2023, the federation has stabilised its finances, resolved potentially catastrophic legal risks at a fraction of the potential liability, rebuilt reserves, invested in our representatives and services, and secured more than 150 million in compensation for members.

'The CEO's remuneration was agreed in 2023 and benchmarked to ensure it was right for the scale of the challenges the organisation faced, and the skillset needed to resolve those challenges.

'Remuneration for 2024 and 2025 amounted to 342,000 basic salary, a retention payment of 342,000 for achieving board-approved objectives, and standard employer contributions of 5 per cent into the organisation's pension scheme.

'The retention payment, which is not uncommon in senior turnaround roles, reflects the achievement of objectives including reducing the federation's potential liabilities from more than 110million to 40million, saving the organisation more than 70million.'

The federation represents 150,000 police officers across England and Wales and is deemed a staff association rather than a union because police are legally banned from taking industrial action.
Israeli troops have been accused of executing two unarmed Palestinian men they suspected of being terrorists who surrendered during a raid in the West Bank.

Horrific footage taken during a military raid in the Palestinian city of Jenin showed Israeli border cops shooting the men dead from point blank range after they emerged from a building with their hands in the air.

Both of the men, who were later named as Mahmoud Qassem Abdallah, 26, and Youssef Asasa, 37, were seen lifting up their shirts as they knelt on the floor, in an apparent show that they were unarmed.

They then lay down on the ground in front of the building, before the Israeli forces directed the men back inside the building and opened fire.

The deaths of the two men are the latest in a long-running campaign of terror in the West Bank, which has ramped up since October 2023. Israel says it is cracking down on militants, but Palestinians and rights groups accuse Israel of using excessive force and say dozens of unarmed civilians have been killed.

The IDF said the Jenin incident was under review, but claimed that the two men were terrorists who had earlier led attacks on Israeli troops.

The IDF and local police claimed the men, who were 'wanted individuals who had carried out terror activities, including hurling explosives and firing at security forces', had been holed up in a multi-hour 'surrender procedure'.

A spokesperson said: 'The forces entered the area, enclosed the structure in which the suspects were located and initiated a surrender procedure that lasted several hours.

Israeli troops have been accused of executing two unarmed Palestinian men who surrendered during a raid in the West Bank

The men were named as Mahmoud Qassem Abdallah, 26, and Youssef Asasa, 37

'Following the use of engineering tools on the structure, the two suspects exited.

'Following their exit, fire was directed toward the suspects. The incident is under review by the commanders on the ground and will be transferred to the relevant professional bodies.'

Both Mahmoud's and Youssef's bodies were taken by Israeli troops following the incident that the Palestinian Authority, the West Bank's governing body, described as a 'deliberate war crime'.

A Palestinian Authority spokesman said: 'Israeli occupation forces executed two young Palestinians in Jenin in cold blood, even after they had turned themselves in.

'An outright extrajudicial killing in blatant violation of international humanitarian law.'

But Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel's hard-right security minister, said the Israeli troops had his support.

He said: 'Lending full backing to the border police and IDF troops who shot at wanted terrorists who were coming out of a building in Jenin.

'The troops acted precisely as is expected of them  terrorists have to die'.

People help clean the site of a reported shooting that left two Palestinians dead during a military operation in the occupied West Bank city of Jenin on November 27, 2025

People inspect the site of a reported shooting that left two Palestinians dead during a military operation in the occupied West Bank city of Jenin on November 27, 2025

The shooting is part of a larger operation in a northeastern region of the West Bank. Israel's military has detained more than 100 people since Tuesday in the town of Tubas, according to Abdullah al-Zaghari, spokesman for the advocacy group Palestinian Prisoners' Club.

The military has said the operation was a response to 'attempts to establish terrorist strongholds and construction of terror infrastructures in the area'.

On November 19, Palestinian attackers stabbed an Israeli to death and wounded three more at a West Bank intersection before being shot down by troops.

Israel's military has scaled up military operations in the West Bank since the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack, which triggered the war in Gaza.

The latest operation comes amid a rising tide of Israeli settler violence in the West Bank. Israeli leaders have played down the settler attacks as the work of a small minority.

But Palestinians say the attacks are frequent, often in close proximity to Israeli troops, and the settlers are rarely punished.
Germany has drawn up a classified 1,200-page plan that spells out how up to 800,000 NATO troops would be dispatched to Europe's frontlines if Russia attempted an attack on the alliance.

It comes after senior officials at the organisation warned that Vladimir Putin could be ready to test NATO's borders before 2029.

Germany's operation, known as OPLAN DEU, was written in secret by a small group of senior officers inside the Julius Leber Barracks in Berlin.

It is now being rolled out at speed as intelligence agencies warn that Moscow's recent sabotage attempts, drone incursions and spying operations across Europe may signal preparations for an earlier confrontation.

The blueprint describes in detail how German, American and allied forces would be moved from ports and airfields in the west to the eastern front, using a network of roads, rail links and rivers that planners admit have been weakened by decades of underinvestment.

The document, revealed in a Wall Street Journal report, also outlines how convoys would be protected from sabotage, misinformation campaigns and drone attacks along the way.

German officials have repeatedly warned that Russia could regain enough strength to threaten a NATO member by 2029.

But senior figures now believe Moscow may move sooner if a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine frees up troops and equipment.

Under the plan, 800,000 NATO troops would be deployed to Europe's frontlines if Russia were to launch an attack on NATO

Vladimir Putin speaking at a press conference yesterday. German senior officials have warned that the Russian tyrant could launch an attack on NATO by 2029

Analysts say Europe's geography puts Germany directly in the pathway of any major reinforcement effort.

'With the Alps forming a natural barrier, NATO troops would have to cross Germany,' said Tim Stuchtey of the Brandenburg Institute for Society and Security.

The plan marks a major shift for Germany, which for decades dismantled the infrastructure it once relied on during the Cold War.

Large parts of the current road and rail network cannot support heavy military vehicles, and many bridges are too weak for armoured convoys.

Government estimates say 20 per cent of highways and more than a quarter of highway bridges require urgent repairs, while ports in the North Sea and Baltic Sea need 15 billion in upgrades.

Planners say the country must now rebuild an 'all of society' approach to defence.

This means updating outdated laws, reversing years of procurement delays and bringing private companies into military planning.

'We must relearn what we unlearnt,' said Deputy Defence Minister Nils Schmid. 'We have to drag people back from retirement to tell us how we did it back then.'

Elements of this new strategy were tested during a series of large exercises this autumn.

In one drill, the defence contractor Rheinmetall built a camp for 500 soldiers, complete with showers, fuel stations and drone surveillance, in just 14 days.

But the drills also exposed problems - some sites were too small for the number of military vehicles, while others were spread across separate plots of land.

In a previous test, a convoy was delayed by traffic congestion that required an entirely new traffic light system to fix.

These issues are being fed back into updated versions of the plan. The current document is stored on an isolated internal system known as the 'red network' and is expected to go through repeated revisions as Germany prepares for a potential conflict.

The challenge facing Germany is not only physical. Officials say peacetime laws hamper the ability to counter sabotage or deploy drones for surveillance.

Threats to infrastructure are already growing. Germany has recorded thousands of background security checks on critical infrastructure employees, and courts have jailed individuals for planning attacks on transport networks.

This week, Polish authorities linked an explosion on railway tracks to Russian involvement.

OPLAN DEU began shortly after Russia launched its full-scale attack on Ukraine in 2022.

Ukrainian emergency rescuers working at the site of a Russian drone strike in September. Plans for the blueprint began shortly after Putin launched his invasion on the country in 2022

Former Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced a 100 billion rearmament package, and the military created a new Territorial Command tasked with writing the plan.

The blueprint was completed in its first form last year and has since been expanded to include hospitals, police forces and disaster agencies.

Exercises have tested how troops would move through major cities. In Hamburg, 500 NATO soldiers arrived by ship and attempted to form a 65-vehicle convoy to move east.

The drill simulated drone surveillance, protest blockades and attacks on key choke points. Soldiers were forced to halt for hours because police did not have the chemicals required to remove activists who had glued themselves to the road.

Despite the challenges it faces, the military insists it is progressing quickly.

'Considering that we started with a blank page in early 2023, we are very happy with where we are today,' said one of the plan's authors. 'This is a very sophisticated product.'

Yet the most pressing question remains how much time Europe has left. German leaders warn that the security environment is deteriorating fast.

'The threats are real,' Chancellor Friedrich Merz said in September. 'We're not at war, but we no longer live in peacetime.'

In recent months, Putin has been accused of provocations by violating NATO members' airspace with drones and fighter jets.

In September, several Russian drones sent to Ukraine in an overnight attack crossed into Poland, hitting the home of an elderly couple and destroying its roof. Analysts have said World War Three could have been triggered if the occupants had been killed.

The Polish government responded by vowing to shoot down any foreign objects in its airspace.

In September, a Russian drone struck an elderly couple's home. Poland later vowed that it would shoot down any foreign objects in its airspace

A photo provided by the Swedish armed forces show one of Putin's MIG-31 jets flying over Estonia's airspace in September

That same month, NATO fighter jets were scrambled after three of Putin's powerful MIG-31 aircraft were seen flying over Estonia and staying there for 12 minutes.

On September 22, Copenhagen Airport, the busiest in Denmark, was forced to close for several hours after suspected Russian drones were seen flying over its runway.

It led to several flight cancellations and redirections, and left over 20,000 people stranded. There have also been accusations of Russian drones over military bases across the continent.

Officials in the European Union have warned that Russia is in a proxy war with Europe, a claim the Kremlin has consistently denied.

Several European countries have been thinking ahead in preparation for the eventuality of war with Putin's forces.

Yesterday, France revealed its plans to bring back military national service for 18-year-old men and women. Meanwhile, earlier this year, Poland announced that it would begin military training for all adult men.

The country, along with Poland, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, which all share a border with Russia, pulled out of the Ottawa Convention, banning anti-personnel landmines.

Europe is also set to unveil a new anti-drone system that would repel any future Russian attacks.
Police chiefs have been urged to overhaul vetting of new recruits after scandals involving female officers having affairs with criminals including gangland drug lords.

Campaigners told the Daily Mail that not enough was being done to prevent 'susceptible' young officers signing up only to then end up in disgrace.

The calls come as a trainee police officer was this week banned for life for passing information to her drug dealer boyfriend.

Ex-West Yorkshire Police officer Maryam Ilyas, 20, accessed the force's computers to find confidential data and inform her criminal boyfriend about an operation into him.

It was found that Ms Ilyas had used police computer systems to search for details about the man on three occasions between March and May 2025.

Ms Ilyas resigned ahead of her disciplinary hearing on Wednesday, but the panel ruled that she would have otherwise been fired.

Her links to the man were identified when he was arrested in June, with officers finding messages between the pair, including pictures of money and chats about drugs.

The hearing was told that Ms Ilyas failed to notify the force of her relationship with the man when she was recruited in June 2024, and in January, she told investigators she was 'unaware of his criminal history'.

Ex-West Yorkshire Police officer Maryam Ilyas, 20, accessed the force's computers to find confidential data to inform her criminal boyfriend about an operation into him

This is the moment Choni Kelly was caught kissing prisoner Josh Whelan at Forest Bank prison while dressed in police uniform

Former PC Lorna Pennycook (pictured) raided West Midlands Police systems 200 times so she could supply information to her 'professional' crook boyfriend

Catherine Hankinson, the force's former deputy chief constable, ruled that messages indicated an 'existing relationship' up to July 2025.

She said the officer's conduct had been 'repeated', 'sustained' and 'intentional'.

The case is one of several involving police officers entering into relationships with criminals - while prison warders have also been punished for affairs with inmates.

Former police officer Norman Brennan, founder of the Victims Of Crime Trust charity, expressed his dismay at the recent revelations - and also suggested Ms Ilyas should have faced a criminal investigation as well as the disciplinary probe.

He told the Daily Mail: 'This is unacceptable and it seems like it's happening more and more these days, in both the police and the prison services.

'Such behaviour undermines the whole criminal justice system and also erodes public trust.

'Young people are being recruited but the vetting is letting people through that should never be in the police, especially when there are links to the criminal underworld.

'In this latest case, she wasn't arrested or charged  but there are cases that do warrant arrest and imprisonment.

'The whole criminal justice system is in a mess and it's going to get a lot worse.'

West Yorkshire Police said: 'Criminal proceedings were carefully considered. However, after a full review, the circumstances did not meet the evidential threshold required for a referral to the CPS.'

Other cases include that of a corrupt female police officer filmed passionately kissing her inmate lover in a prison waiting room while still in her uniform as they carried out a secret fling in plain sight.

Choni Kenny was spotted on CCTV having an illicit affair with drug dealer Josh Whelan, to whom she passed information and provided 20 mobile phones so he could still run his criminal enterprise behind bars.

When the relationship broke down after his release, the 27-year-old started a relationship with former schoolmate Rahim Mottley, who was under investigation by Greater Manchester Police and had moved to Spain.

She told him about planned firearms raid and promised to find out who the 'local grasses' were, after searching police systems for information when he was arrested.

But her crimes were exposed when her fateful kiss with Whelan at Forest Bank Prison was spotted on CCTV by GMP anti-corruption investigators as they probed her movements, phone and computer use.

She was also seen with Whelan in her BMW and went to a Nando's restaurant with him, before going to work where she searched for details of prisoners released that week.

The Greater Manchester Police officer was jailed in April at Manchester Crown Court for three years and nine months after she was convicted of passing information to both men.

Choni Kenny, of Cheadle in Greater Manchester, admitted four counts of misconduct in a public office and one count of conspiracy to commit misconduct in a public office

Whelan, of no fixed address, pleaded guilty to three charges of possessing an illegal mobile phone in prison.

During her sentencing hearing, it was heard how the corrupt police officer Choni Kenny (pictured) passed information to two crook associates Josh Whelan and Rahim Mottley

Mottley, 28, was sentenced to two years and four months after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit misconduct in a public office

Choni Kenny, 27, who joined Greater Manchester Police (GMP) in 2020, was given a jail sentence of three years and nine months at Liverpool Crown Court in April 2025

'Committed criminal' Whelan, was reimprisoned for two years after admitting to possessing a phone in prison, possession of a bladed article, racially aggravated assault, threatening behaviour and a bail offence.

Mottley, 28, was sentenced to two years and four months after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit misconduct in a public office.

Another ban was handed out to a corrupt police officer who was 'infatuated' with her secret criminal boyfriend and raided police systems to pass intelligence to him.

Former PC Lorna Pennycook accessed West Midlands Police systems 200 times so she could supply information to 'professional' crook Anthony Kennedy.

She 'researched' confidential details about investigations and shared them with her lorry jacker partner before attempting to cover her tracks by telling him to delete their messages.

Pennycook even convinced Kennedy not to end their affair after he realised she was a police officer.

At an accelerated misconduct hearing in July, Pennycook was found to have breached standards of professional behaviour.

A panel ruled that her actions amounted to gross misconduct and she would have been dismissed had she still been working for the force.

Former PC Lorna Pennycook (pictured) accessed West Midlands Police systems 200 times so she could supply information to 'professional' crook Anthony Kennedy

Her actions were 'calculated, deliberate, in no sense coerced', a report from the hearing read.

Pennycook joined the force in January 2009, spending the majority of her career on the Birmingham East Neighbourhood Policing Unit where she became acting sergeant in August 2020.

In March 2021, she was posted to the organised crime and gangs team as a constable.

She started a relationship with Kennedy in 2016, finding out he was 'involved in criminality' the following year.

The report from Chief Constable Craig Guildford read: '[Kennedy] wanted to end the relationship upon discovering your profession; you clearly did not want to end the relationship despite learning that he was a criminal.

'You remained in a relationship with him. You did not disclose this relationship to your supervisor.'

Pennycook 'used numerous police systems to access sensitive policing information and intelligence' which was not relevant to her duties between August 2017 and February 2021.

This was 'deliberate conduct' to get hold of information which would have been useful to Kennedy and his criminal associates, the report read.

Kennedy admitted assisting in the commission of misconduct in a public office and was jailed for four years last year

Pennycook told Kennedy - who was known to be part of an organised criminal group - to delete her messages and 'requested a burner phone' so messages were not linked to her.

She was arrested in April 2021 and resigned three months later.

The panel heard how she was charged with misconduct in a public office and admitted the charge - but with an 'untruthful basis of plea'.

But her basis of plea was later abandoned and she was jailed for four years last December.

Pennycook, formerly of Walsall, penned a letter to a case worker within the force's professional standards department in March 2025.

She 'fully acknowledged' her wrongdoing and said she expected to be dismissed.

Pennycook was found to have breached the standards of professional behaviour relating to confidentiality, discreditable conduct and honesty and integrity.

She now features on the College of Policing's barred list.

Anthony Kennedy (pictured) was known to be part of an organised criminal group

Kennedy, then 43 and of Tipton in the West Midlands, admitted assisting in the commission of misconduct in a public office and was jailed for four years last year.

Birmingham Crown Court previously heard how he had a criminal record boasting 18 convictions for 41 offences.

This included a gang lorry jacking in Oldbury which led to him being locked up for eight years in 2012.

Kennedy threatened to end his relationship with Pennycook over concerns it would have been damaging to his reputation with his criminal friends.

But Pennycook warned she would not leave him alone and said it would be 'advantageous' for him if they stayed together.

The former officer called Kennedy significantly more times than he contacted her during the four-year period, the court heard.

Pennycook had access to force computer systems which held information on crime reports, logs, custody records, alleged crimes, telephone numbers, vehicle registrations, wanted suspects, warrants to be executed and the management of prisoners.

She also 'attempted to shift the blame' upon Kennedy before she was sentenced, claiming she had acted under pressure.

Carly Fay, 25, acted as a 'conduit' for Dylan Neilson (picture together) and a customer after he smuggled a haul of drugs into Creamfields in Daresbury, Cheshire

Meanwhile, a budding young police officer was caught assisting her drug dealer boyfriend in selling cocaine and ecstasy at a major music festival - but avoided jail after revealing she was pregnant with his child.

Carly Fay, 25, acted as a 'conduit' for Dylan Neilson and a customer after he smuggled a haul of drugs into Creamfields in Daresbury, Cheshire.

Fay, who aspired to join the Metropolitan Police, exchanged messages with a woman named Emily about the prices for cocaine.

Fay and Neilson travelled 230 miles to the festival from their homes in Glasgow and were detained after security staff spotted him acting suspiciously.

Neilson, 29, from the Coatbridge area, was rugby tackled to the floor and found to have 15 bags of cocaine, 324 ecstasy tablets, and 4.23g of broken ecstasy tablets - while 13,000 in cash was recovered.

He was found with 15 bags of cocaine, 324 ecstasy tablets, 4.23 grams of broken ecstasy tablets and cash totaling 13,000 - and additional drugs were discovered in their tent.

Fay denied supplying drugs but incriminating messages were found on her phone.

At Chester Crown Court last year, Fay pleaded guilty to being concerned in the supply of cocaine and MDMA.

Fay, who aspired to join the Metropolitan Police , exchanged messages with a woman named Emily about the prices for cocaine. Fay quoted 50 for half a gram and 80 for a gram. When asked if Neilson, 29, could provide Emily with credit, she added: 'He won't do tick'

Neilson, 29, (pictured) from the Coatbridge area of the Scottish city tried to make a run for it but was rugby tackled to the floor and was found to have 15 bags of cocaine, 324 ecstasy tablets, and 4.23 grams of broken ecstasy tablets. Altogether, 13,000 in cash was recovered

The court heard that Neilson offered to serve more jail time so Fay (pictured) could avoid prison. Fay was also fined 750

She faced two years in jail but was sentenced to 18 months suspended for two years.

Defence counsel Kate Morley said: 'The relationship between them is now over.

'Miss Fay gives a description of the toxic relationship and how she felt in the relationship.

'She considered that the balance of power was heavily in favour of Mr Neilson.

'Whilst she does not say that Mr Neilsen forced her or threatened her to assist in the supply of drugs, such was the nature of the relationship there was a subtle pressure to assist him.'

Neilson, who has previous drug offences, was jailed for 30 months after he pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply cocaine and MDMA and to possession of criminal property.

In another case, a rookie police officer embarked on an affair with her married boss before going on a date with a drugs kingpin - but avoided a misconduct hearing.

Caitlin Howarth, 25, was just weeks into her career with West Yorkshire Police when she struck up an illicit romance with Chief Superintendent Daniel Greenwood - a father of two 17 years her senior.

Mr Greenwood, then the 93,000-a-year Covid enforcement chief for Bradford, lost his job after admitting gross misconduct over the 'obviously wrong' affair last year.

Caitlin Howarth, 25, pictured, was just weeks into her career with West Yorkshire Police when she struck up an illicit romance with a police boss

Chief Superintendent Daniel Greenwood, above, then the 93,000-a-year Covid enforcement chief for Bradford, lost his 21-year career after admitting gross misconduct over the 'obviously wrong' affair last year

Ms Howarth, who boasts more than 11,500 Instagram followers and regularly shares revealing selfies, was due to face a similar police disciplinary hearing.

But the Daily Mail revealed how those proceedings were quietly shelved - and after a criminal case alleging Ms Howarth committed misconduct in public office was also dropped last year.

A West Yorkshire Police spokesman said in September: 'A review of the misconduct matters took place following Ms Howarth's acquittal. This established there was no case to answer.'

Mr Greenwood, once tipped as a future assistant chief at West Yorkshire Police, flouted lockdown rules to sneak off for trysts with Ms Howarth, despite being responsible for enforcing stay-at-home rules.

The pair swapped raunchy pictures and even had sex while he was out jogging, with the affair causing 'tittle-tattle' and 'gossip in the ranks'.

Ms Howarth had sex with Mr Greenwood, 42, after he helped her secure a job in the force in 2019.

After meeting in person in March 2020, the pair swapped flirty messages and sexually explicit pictures over the summer.

Ms Howarth, above, who boasts more than 11,500 Instagram followers and regularly shares revealing selfies, was due to face a similar police disciplinary hearing

However, the Daily Mail revealed those proceedings had been quietly shelved

The pair had sex during the January 2021 Covid lockdown, shortly after her 21st birthday and when she had been a probationer PC for just seven weeks, and again in July 2021.

The relationship was eventually exposed in November 2021 when Ms Howarth was investigated by anti-corruption officers over meet-ups with Joseph Shaw, a drug dealer later jailed over a 1.5million heroin racket.

A disciplinary panel found Greenwood abused his position of trust and responsibility. He quit just two days before he could be formally sacked, later reinventing himself as a cheesemaker.

When quizzed over the illicit liaisons, Mr Greenwood told investigators that the fling was 'habitually initiated' by Ms Howarth who 'found older menmore attractive'.

She, in turn, said she did not have sex with Mr Greenwood because of his rank but 'because I was going through a rough time with my boyfriend'.

Howarth, from Bingley in West Yorkshire, told investigators: 'I ended up getting feelings and then that's how it happened.

She added: 'He always asked me to delete the messages. I think he deleted them so that his wife didn't see but he used to say 'make sure you delete the pictures or delete the messages'.

'Towards the end I didn't [because] I didn't think. I didn't know why I needed to. I think he deleted them from my iCloud at his request.'

Ms Howarth had sex with Greenwood, 42, after he helped her secure a job in the force in 2019

Ms Howarth was investigated by anti-corruption officers over meet-ups with Joseph Shaw, above, a drug dealer later jailed over a 1.5million heroin racket

During Mr Greenwood's misconduct hearing, it emerged Ms Howarth had been on a Tinder date with drug dealer Shaw, whose brother Daniel was in prison at the time.

Shaw, 31, was jailed for six and a half years in January 2023 after admitting a drugs supply plot with his brother Daniel, 27, and has since been released.

Alsi put behind bars, in November 2023, was corrupt police worker Natalie Mottram, after she illegally accessed sensitive information to tip off a criminal friend about a secret international investigation into serious crime.

Mottram, then 25, from Warrington, was sentenced to three years and nine months after betraying her police bosses - only to be caught in an undercover sting operation set up to trap whoever was leaking secrets to criminals.

She had been working as an intelligence analyst at the ROCU when she was arrested by National Crime Agency (NCA) officers on June 12, 2020.

Mottram was held as part of Operation Venetic - the NCA-led UK response to the takedown of the encrypted communications platform EncroChat, used by gangsters and serious criminals across Europe to avoid detection.

Mottram, whose job involved making threat assessments of organised crime gangs, told Jonathan Kay, 39, about the covert EncroChat operation, and that officers had intelligence on him.

She admitted misconduct in public office, perverting the course of justice and unauthorised access to computer material, at an earlier court hearing.

Natalie Mottram, 25, from Warrington, betrayed her police bosses but was caught in an undercover sting operation

Jonathan Kay, 39, was given secret information by Mottram and has been jailed for perverting the course of justice

Kay admitted perverting the course of justice at an earlier hearing and was sentenced to two years and six months in jail.

John McKeon, head of the NCA's anti-corruption unit, said: 'Operation Venetic is a once-in-a-generation investigation which has made a huge contribution to public protection.

'More than 1,240 offenders have been convicted, more than 173 firearms recovered and more than nine tonnes of heroin and cocaine seized. More than 200 threats to life were averted. But Mottram's actions had the potential to derail all that.'

Assistant Chief Constable Jo Edwards, head of the North West ROCU, said: 'The overwhelming majority of people who work in policing do so to protect the public from harm, and they devote years of service to that end.

'Sadly, the actions of Natalie Mottram undermine the good work that is being done daily by her colleagues here at the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit.'

Superintendent Simon Parsonage, head of professional standards at Cheshire Constabulary, said: 'As this case demonstrates, nobody is above the law and I want to reassure the public that we are committed to doing all we can to root out any officers or staff who fail to meet the high standards that the people of Cheshire expect and deserve.'

The NCA inquiry was part of an Independent Office for Police Conduct-directed investigation.

Rosemary Ainslie, head of the Crown Prosecution Service Special Crime Division, added: 'Mottram's corrupt actions were a gross breach of trust and had the potential to be hugely damaging to a very important and large-scale investigation into EncroChat and organised crime.
Have YOU moved to Australia or Dubai from Britain? Please email aidan.radnedge.mol@dailymail.co.uk

Young people moving from the UK to the likes of Australia and Dubai are fuelling an exodus of more than one million Brits over the last four years.

Workers are boasting on social media of sunnier weather and healthier bank accounts as huge numbers choose to head abroad to escape Labour's tax hikes.

An estimated 252,000 Britons left the UK in the year to June 2025, according to figures published yesterday by the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

The total has been broadly the same in recent years - at 257,000 in the year to June 2024, 252,000 in the year to June 2023 and 240,000 in the year to June 2022.

But the latest data gives more evidence for the ongoing trend of young Brits increasingly moving abroad for better wages, lower taxes and cheaper housing.

Some post TikTok videos, especially from Australia and Dubai, boasting of a better lifestyle having left their family and friends in the UK in pursuit of happiness.

The Conservatives have accused Labour of presiding over a 'brain drain' where some of the UK's brightest young doctors and entrepreneurs are looking abroad.

Many are flocking Down Under where they can find a youth unemployment rate of 9.8 per cent last month, according to Australian Bureau of Statistics data.

Have YOU moved to Australia or Dubai from Britain? Please email aidan.radnedge.mol@dailymail.co.uk

Young people heading to Australia are now posting TikTok videos under the heading of 'the Australia effect' which shows someone's transition to a 'happier life' living in the country

The UK's youth unemployment rate was 15.3 per cent in the third quarter of this year, according to the ONS - the highest level outside the pandemic in a decade.

Britons were also the fastest-growing nationality of people taking up working holiday visas to Australia in 2024/25, a rise of 80 per cent from the previous year.

Top ten countries Brits are leaving the UK for Spain: 14.1% United States 13.6% Australia 11.2% France 10.1% Italy 6.7% Germany 5.5% United Arab Emirates 4.0% New Zealand 3.8% Ireland 3.2% Canada 3.2% Proportions compiled by Compare My Move based on 2023 data Advertisement

Some are now posting TikTok videos under the heading of 'the Australia effect' which shows someone's transition to a 'happier life' living in the country.

Many are also heading to the United Arab Emirates having been attracted by tax-free salaries, year-round sunshine and a strong finance and technology jobs market.

Another popular option is Ireland, given its close proximity and no need for a visa; and Canada, for its job opportunities and the world-famous landscapes. Portugal, Spain and the US are also cited as favourable destinations for emigrating Brits.

Experts believe young people are taking advantage of more liberal rules in countries away from the UK especially in the Middle East, where visas can allow for remote working.

Madeleine Sumption, director of Oxford University's Migration Observatory, told the Telegraph: 'Speaking to immigration lawyers, what was keeping them busy was people working remotely in countries where they didn't have immigration permission to do so.'

Some 174,000 16-to 34-year-olds fled Labour's high-tax state in the year to March, accounting for just over two-thirds of Britons leaving the country, the ONS said.

This was made up of 87,000 people aged 16 to 24 and 87,000 aged 25 to 34. Across those two age groups, 63,000 Britons returned from overseas in the same period.

This gave a net figure of about 110,000 Britons aged 16 to 34 who emigrated over the year.

@mr_moss_global    The British are moving directly to Ras al Khaimah #movetorak #britishexpat #RasalKhaimah #almarjanisland    - Elman 57 @elleappps The western media love to portray a false narrative about the Middle East. I was born and raised in the UK and literally feared for my life, regardless to whether it was light or dark. Nearly 4 years ago I moved to the UAE and can honestly say that this is the safest Ive ever felt in my life. Ive visited Saudi Arabia a few times and do not have any bad words to say. They are hospitable, kind and very generous!! The west pick on Arabs because they know the real problem is the white men in suits. The UAEs safety for women is unmatched  original sound - Elle | Brit in Dubai

Many young Brits are taking to TikTok to talk about a move to the UAE, having been attracted by tax-free salaries, year-round sunshine and a strong finance and technology jobs market

Your browser does not support iframes.

Meanwhile only 1,000 Britons aged over 65 emigrated while 12,000 returned to live here.

Emigration of British nationals has been running at around 250,000 a year since 2021, though a comparison with figures before 2021 is not possible because of a change in the way the ONS estimates this category.

Following measures unveiled by Rachel Reeves in Budget on Wednesday, alongside her manifesto-busting 30billion tax hikes, young people face a battle to find work, with a rise in the minimum wage meaning businesses are less likely to take a chance on them.

Those who do find employment will pay income tax earlier and at higher rates due to the freezing of the personal allowance and tax bands, while student loan repayment thresholds were also paused, meaning graduates face earlier deductions from their pay packet as they start work.

As well as the exodus of young Britons, the latest ONS data found asylum seekers now make up nearly half of net migration  threatening to add to the pain of the Budget.

Experts warned that as the Chancellor struggles with her drive for growth, such stark changes risk putting even more strain on the public purse and dragging down the economy yet further.

Taxpayers face footing an 'intolerable burden' to support migrants arriving here, they said, while the Budget is likely to drive away even more young people.

Overall net migration  the difference between those arriving to live long-term in the UK minus those emigrating  plummeted to 204,000 in the year to June, the Office for National Statistics said, on the back of a series of tough Tory measures.

But the number of asylum seekers coming to Britain has surged to a record high, meaning they make up a far greater share of the numbers.

This ONS graph shows how long-term emigration from the UK continues to rise. It displays the number of non-EU+, EU+ and British nationals emigrating long-term from the UK each year

In a further significant development which will affect the economy, the number of skilled foreign workers coming here dropped to 57,000 in the 12 months to September from 75,000 the previous year.

The new data showed asylum seekers  including small boat migrants  made up 44 per cent of the net number of migrants overall.

Separately, official statistics published for the first time yesterday showed migrants who go on to win refugee status are far more likely to be unemployed.

Even after living here for eight years, 48 per cent of working-age refugees are in work, far below the average employment rate of 74 per cent, and continue to rely on welfare hand-outs.

Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp said: 'It is a day of shame for the Government. Nearly half of net migration is asylum seekers, many of whom arrived illegally.

'Around half of asylum seekers do not end up getting a job, meaning hard-pressed taxpayers are being fleeced to fund a benefits bonanza for illegal immigrants.

'This puts an intolerable, multi-billion pound burden on the nation's finances.'

Mr Philp added: 'This 'brain drain' will only get worse after Labour's punishing Budget this week.'

Dr Ben Brindle, of Oxford University's Migration Observatory, said: 'It does seem that the composition of migration has become less favourable from an economic perspective, with fewer people getting skilled worker visas and a higher share of refugees, who often need a lot of support.'

A spokesman for the Migration Observatory added: 'The only major migration category where net migration did not decrease was asylum.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves delivers her Budget in the House of Commons on Wednesday

'Long-term immigration of asylum seekers was 96,000 in the year ending June 2025, making up 11 per cent of all immigration  double the 5 per cent share in 2019.

'Relatively few asylum migrants emigrate, so net migration of people seeking asylum was 90,000 in the same period, equivalent 44 per cent of total net migration.'

It was double the pre-Brexit figure of 22 per cent in 2019. The figures could, however, be even more stark than depicted in the Migration Observatory's analysis.

Separate Home Office data published yesterday  covering the year to September, a more recent period than the ONS figures  showed there were a record 110,051 asylum claims.

This could make the proportion of net migration made up by asylum seekers even more pronounced in future figures.

There was a fall in long-term immigration levels to 898,000 in the year to June  the first time it has dipped below a million since 2021.

The largest group was migrants from outside the EU, on 670,000.

The year saw 85,000 EU nationals come to live here long-term, down from a peak of 521,000 in 2016. It also saw 155,000 EU nationals emigrate from Britain.

Total emigration  including Britons  was 693,000.

The number of foreign nationals granted settled status is running at the highest level in more than a decade.

There were 158,137 granted 'indefinite leave to remain', the highest figure since 2011. There were 240,613 grants of British citizenship.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said: 'Net migration is at its lowest level in half a decade and has fallen by more than two-thirds under this Government.

'But we are going further because the pace and scale of migration has placed immense pressure on local communities. Last week, I announced reforms to ensure that those who come here must contribute and put in more than they take out.'
An immigrant living in the UK illegally has been allowed to stay because deporting him would be 'unduly harsh' on his daughter who he 'spent a lot of time taking to ballet', a judge has ruled.

The Albanian national, 40, who was granted anonymity, was previously deported from Britain but re-entered the country and has lived here unlawfully since 2016.

He was set to be removed from the UK, but a tribunal judge ruled that doing so would be 'unduly harsh' on his daughter.

This was despite the fact that he is not with her mother and does not even appear on his daughter's birth certificate.

The immigrant's daughter and her mother both have refugee status and cannot return to Albania. Therefore if he was deported, they would not be able to visit him.

The mother told the tribunal that he 'meant everything' to their daughter, and he 'spent a lot of time and money on taking her to ballet, to parties and other places, as well as attending her parents' evenings'.

His daughter's school said the child was so concerned about the risk he might be deported that they had put in place regular sessions to support her.

Arguing against keeping him in the UK, the Home Office said he 'did not have a genuine and subsisting relationship with his daughter' and 'there was no evidence of any relationship between them before 2022' - six years after his unlawful re-entry.

An immigrant who has lived in the UK illegally for nine years has been allowed to stay in the UK following a ruling from the Upper Tribunal Immigration and Asylum Chamber (pictured)

A map of Algeria, where the immigrant in from. He was previously deported from Britain but re-entered the country and has lived here unlawfully since 2016

First-tier Tribunal Judge Fraser Latta accepted this evidence, and found that the daughter was 'a vulnerable child'.

The judge accepted that he collected her from school four or five times per week and saw her at the weekends.

He concluded that there was a genuine and subsisting relationship between them and that separating the respondent and his daughter would be unduly harsh.

The Home Office appealed the decision because the judge had not given good reasons to believe the Independent Social Worker's evidence.

It added that the judge hadn't properly directed himself on the legal meaning of 'unduly harsh'.

However Judge John Jolliffe said that the Home Office had not 'taken steps to challenge the evidence'.

Judge Jolliffe said: 'Losing physical contact with her father would be detrimental and would have a significant impact on her, such that to do so would meet the high threshold of being unduly harsh.

'The Tribunal might have formed a different view of that issue if the Home Office had advanced evidence to counter the reports of the independent social worker, or if the Home Office had taken steps to challenge that evidence, for example through cross-examination.

'If one or both of those steps had been taken, the task of the judge resolving the issue would have been more complex, and the Tribunal might well have expected more reasoning.

'However, the Home Office chose not to take either of those steps. In those circumstances, the reasoning is legally sufficient.
A prolific thief who displayed 'extreme aggression and temper' as he kicked and punched a pensioner to death in the street after demanding his groceries has been jailed.

Peter Augustine, 59, brutally murdered 87-year-old frail John Mackey after he visited a Co-op store in Manor House, north London, on the afternoon of May 6.

Augustine had watched Mr Mackey as he made his way to the shop then a takeaway to buy himself some dinner.

The killer shouted 'give me the bag' during the tussle, and left his elderly victim lying prone on the floor and bleeding profusely from his head after a savage, minute-long assault.

Augustine, who claimed he was motivated by hunger, then frisked Mr Mackey, who had dementia and walked with a stick, and made off with his shopping bag - which included a box of cornflakes, an own brand cottage pie and his dinner of sausage and chips.

Augustine, who refused to attend court, was handed a life sentence with a minimum term of 23 years before he can be considered for release by Her Honour Judge Sarah Whitehouse KC at the Old Bailey today.

She said: 'It was a cowardly attack, the defendant has shown no remorse.

'If he (Augustine) was genuinely starving, I have no doubt that this kind, generous gentleman would have shared what he had with him.'

Mr Mackey's family praised the judge's verdict, saying: 'Knowing [Augustine] will never see the light of day is the only consolation we have to losing such a wonderful uncle.'

Frail John Mackey, 87, was murdered as he visited a Co-op store in Manor House, north London

The moment police arrested Peter Augustine for the murder of John Mackey

The prosecutor told jurors that at the time, Augustine (pictured) was living in 'reduced circumstances' and was effectively homeless

Mr Mackey's niece Patricia Schan gave a moving statement to the court on behalf of the family.

She described her Arsenal-supporting uncle as 'perfect', one of 11 brothers and sisters who had no children of his own but was very close to his 22 nieces and nephews.

She said: 'He always had a twinkle in his eye, dressed immaculately and never seen without one of his many trilby hats.'

A member of the jury, who returned to witness the sentencing, appeared to wipe a tear from her eye as Ms Schan paid tribute to her uncle, an Irishman from Callan in County Kilkenny, who had lived in London for around 70 years.

Johns family also paid tribute to him outside court, saying: 'Today is the end of a journey our family never wanted to take and wouldn't wish on anyone.

'A lovely gentle uncle was taken from us in a brutal act of senseless violence by a man the exact opposite of John Mackey

'Dearly loved by your sisters Betty and Ellen, brothers Tommy and Liam, his 22 nieces and nephews in his community, John was a quiet, unassuming, and charming man.'

'His loss will always be felt, but his memory will live on in the true Irish tradition of storytelling, and there are still many tales. He will always be remembered with a smile.

Police pieced together events from CCTV footage, although the attack itself was not caught on camera.

John Mackey (pictured), who was bleeding from his head, regained consciousness but was unable to tell officers what had happened

Mr Mackey's family including nephew Adrian Kennedy, centre, welcomed the sentence of life imprisonment

Mr Mackey had set off from his address shortly after 5pm wearing a distinctive trilby hat, grey mackintosh coat and carrying a walking stick and black bag.

At 5.12pm, he went into the Co-op where he bought cornflakes, an own-brand cottage pie and Mirror newspaper which he put in his bag.

He paid for his goods using a 20 note and put the change of 11.50 in his trouser pocket.

Eighteen minutes later, Augustine began to follow the pensioner.

Mr Mackey then went into Manor Kebab at 5.36pm and bought sausage and chips as the defendant loitered outside, the trial was told.

The victim was last seen on camera at 5.50pm and Augustine reappeared on CCTV three minutes later carrying what looked like the victim's bag, the trial heard.

A later search of the defendant's room uncovered what was left of Mr Mackey's groceries and wrapping from the cottage pie, and sausage and chips.

Mr Mackey regained consciousness briefly in hospital but was unable to tell police exactly what happened before he died from his injuries.

Prosecutor Jane Bickerstaff KC previously told the trial Mr Mackey was 5ft 5ins tall and weighed less than nine stone.

She said: 'He would have been largely unable to put up any resistance to the attack due to his age and infirmity.'

She told the sentencing hearing today: 'What he (Augustine) in fact did, over the course of a minute, was he used a level of violence, causing in that time a fatal injury, all wholly unnecessary, carried out in extreme anger.'

The prosecutor told jurors that at the time, Augustine was living in 'reduced circumstances' and was effectively homeless.

She said he had used 'extreme force' after he targeted Mr Mackey.

'When the defendant kicked and punched an elderly, vulnerable and largely defenceless man, who was prone on the floor, the Crown says that he intended to cause him really serious harm,' Ms Bickerstaff said.

Augustine was handed a life term with a minimum of 23 years for murder, less the 203 days he has spent in custody.

He was also handed an eight-year sentence for robbery, and a further four-week sentence for theft three days before the attack. The sentences will run concurrently.

The judge said Augustine, who has a host of previous convictions, may never be released from prison.
Alleged stabber is not old enough to be charged

An 11-year-old boy who allegedly stabbed another student at school will not be charged for the crime because he is too young to be prosecuted.

The 11-year-old was questioned by police over the stabbing of an eight-year-old at Brentwood Park Primary School in Melbourne's south-east at 9am on Thursday.

The alleged attack happened in Berwick just as the bell rang for school to begin.

Emergency services treated the alleged victim for non-life-threatening injuries at the scene.

Two schools were briefly put into lockdown as the incident played out as a female staff member of Brentwood Park Primary was also treated for minor injuries.

Officers took the 11-year-old boy to hospital for assessment after their questioning ended.

Reports from the day suggested the alleged child attacker, believed to be in Grade 5, assaulted a teacher before running off and attacking a Grade 1 and a Grade 2 pupil.

A search of the child's bag allegedly uncovered two other kitchen knives.

An 11-year-old child who allegedly stabbed another student at school will avoid charges because the age of criminal responsibility in Victoria is 12

Brentwood Park Primary was locked down this week after an alleged stabbing

Brentwood Park Primary School was placed into lockdown after a stabbing

On Friday, however, Victoria Police announced that no charges would be laid over the alleged attack because the children were too young.

'The 11-year-old boy will not be charged as the minimum age of criminal responsibility is 12,' a spokesperson said in a statement.

'Victoria Police continue to work with government partners to ensure all those involved are supported.'

The Department of Education confirmed it was supporting the injured student and staff member on Thursday.

Anybody else who may need support has also been offered assistance from the department.
The CEO of Southern Water was placed under citizens arrest by female activists who held hands and surrounded him after he allegedly caused a 'public nuisance'.

Footage shows Lawrence Gosden encircled by the anti-pollution protesters as he makes his way to a conference in London.

The flustered businessman says 'I'm so sorry, can I please make my way to my meeting' and 'please don't constrain me' as the women refuse to let him go.

Gosden was accused of four counts of causing a public nuisance, with the claims centring on illegal sewage spills, equipment maintenance standards and the alleged 'mismanagement' of funds.

Citizens arrest is an archaic civil practice that allows citizens to detain a criminal until police arrive.

A woman, who appears to be the ringleader, tells Mr Gosden 'this is a very serious matter'.

Mr Gosden responds, 'right now you're actually stopping me from getting on with that job. It's really important. Rather than this I'd love to just talk to you about what we're doing and how we're actually doing it.'

The Citizen's Arrest Network members called the police and presented officers with a 'dossier of evidence' when they arrived, but the officers opted to release the CEO.

Footage shows businessman Lawrence Gosden surrounded by hand-holding anti-pollution protesters as he makes his way to a conference in London

Mr Gosden attempts to reason with a woman who appears to be the ringleader of the all-female group

Southern Water said: 'On Tuesday morning, our chief executive was impeded for a short time on his way into a trade event where he was speaking about the turnaround he is leading at Southern Water'

The group said: 'Under Gosden, Southern Water is responsible for the most serious category of sewage pollution into rivers and seas and is under investigation by the Environment Agency.

'In July a letter signed by ten MPs representing constituencies served by Southern Water urged Gosden to reject his bonus following bill increases and poor water quality.'

A spokesman added: 'This month millions of toxic plastic beads washed up on the beach of Camber Sands in East Sussex.

'It's been called the "worst plastic pellet pollution incident on the UK coast for years" and an "ecological disaster".

'The beads were released by Southern Water, who did not admit to this drastic pollution for weeks.

'They are dangerous if not deadly to wildlife - and therefore all living creatures in the food chain - and are expected to have delivered sewage pathogens straight to the adults and children living in the area.'

Southern Water did not initially claim responsibility for the Camber Sands spill, but on November 10 said it believed it had used the bio-beads in a wastewater treatment works.

The company said a screening filter failed, resulting in the beads being released into the sea.

Southern Water said it began to work with partner agencies immediately after receiving reports of beads being washed up along the coastline.

A spokesman said: 'On Tuesday morning, our chief executive was impeded for a short time on his way into a trade event where he was speaking about the turnaround he is leading at Southern Water.

'After a few minutes, the stunt was over and Lawrence proceeded to take part in the event as planned.'

Earlier this year Mark Thurston, CEO of Anglican Water, was subjected to a citizen's arrest on his way to work.

In a separate incident, an attempt was also made to detain the boss of Thames Water, Chris Weston.
Jeremy Corbyn's new left wing party will finally get round to deciding what to call itself this weekend, a mere five months after it was launched.

The socialist collective provisionally entitled Your Party gathers in for its first conference this weekend to try and iron out the many teething problems that have beset it.

Ms Sultana quit Labour in July saying she would co-lead the new party with Mr Corbyn, something that is now very unlikely to happen.

She was also involved in a major rift with him and the other male MPs involved in the party, branding them a 'sexist boys club'.

Activities at the conference include producing a shortlist of permanent names for the party. They will be put to a vote and the winner announced by Mr Corbyn in his speech on Sunday night.

But anyone hoping for a belated display of unity from him and and fellow former Labour MP Zarah Sultana after the dismal start to the party's life will have their hopes dashed.

The pair, who have been at loggerheads from the start, are kicking off the conference by holding rival rallies for supporters just half a mile apart in Liverpool tonight.

Ms Sultana initially did not invite Mr Corbyn to her event, but he is holding his own, an hour earlier, where he will be joined by his long-time ally, the former Unite union kingpin Len McCluskey.

And after seeing her chances of becoming co-leader dashed, Ms Sultana this week said she backed plans for a 'collective leadership' under which Mr Corbyn would be blocked from being in sole charge as well.

The socialist collective provisionally entitled Your Party gathers in for its first conference this weekend to try and iron out the many teething problems that have beset it

Ms Sultana quit Labour in July saying she would co-lead the new party with Mr Corbyn, but later branded him and other male MPs in it a 'sexist boys club'

Mr offered a lukewarm apology to his hard Left followers this week for the shambles surrounding the launch of his new political party.

The former Labour leader said he was 'sorry if you are all disappointed' following a summer of chaos.

In an eve-of-conference interview with the New Statesman today Mr Corbyn said: 'We are all socialists. It's never going to be an easy road. And for any misdemeanours on my part, of course, I apologise. But I want to make things work.'

While serving as interim leader and the overwhelming favourite to be voted the party's permanent leader in a vote next year Mr Corbyn, now 76, was rather coy about whether he would do so.

He said he was 'very prepared to do that job', adding: 'I'm around, I'm here.'

But allies of the former Labour leader today said he was being 'a touch avoidant' about the whole thing, telling the Guardian he has a propensity to 'disappear to his allotment for 24 hours without his phone'.

At the same time, the Green Party under new leader Zack Polanski has surged in the polls and appears to have won over the disillusioned Labour voters that Your Party was hoping to attract.

Earlier this month two MPs pulled out of efforts to set up the new outfit.

Iqbal Mohamed said in a statement that he had decided to leave Your Party and continue to serve his Dewsbury and Batley constituency as an Independent MP.

It came after MP Adnan Hussain said he was withdrawing from the party's 'steering process', citing concerns about factionalism and 'veiled prejudice' against Muslims.

They had been among the six MPs that were helping to set up the party, alongside Corbyn, Sultana, Shockat Adam and Ayoub Khan.

But its foundation has been marred by internal division, with a dispute between Mr Corbyn and Ms Sultana resulting in a botched membership launch and threats of legal action.

Earlier this month, the Independent Alliance of MPs  which includes Mr Corbyn, Mr Adam, Mr Khan, Mr Hussain and Mr Mohamed  said Your Party was still attempting to recover money donated by supporters when Ms Sultana promoted a new membership portal that was later disowned as an 'unauthorised email'.
The monarchy has to change to become more 'in tune' with the country, David Dimbleby has said.

But the veteran broadcaster, 87, believes Prince William will make 'radical alterations' when he succeeds his father as monarch.

Mr Dimbleby spoke out this morning ahead of his three-part documentary airing on the BBC that will delve into the extent of the power that the Royal Family still wields.

The programme, titled What's the Monarchy For?, airs just weeks after Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was stripped of his prince and Duke of York title following fresh revelations about his relationship with paedophile Jeffrey Epstein.

The BBC itself has also in recent weeks faced fresh criticism over its cover-up of reporter Martin Bashir's deception in securing his bombshell TV interview with Princess Diana.

The new documentary comes following polls that show how public support for the Royal Family dipped slightly after the latest news about Andrew emerged.

Mr Dimbleby has covered dozens of royal events, including the funerals of Princess Diana in 1997 and Queen Elizabeth II in 2022.

Speaking to BBC Radio 4's Today programme this morning, he said the monarchy will have to adapt to survive, but does not believe that Britons would vote to ditch the royals altogether.

The monarchy has to change to become more 'in tune' with the country, David Dimbleby has said

'The idea of a republic, I was thinking about it,' he said.

'To find a president that would suit England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, I'm not sure it is easy as the Republican movement think, so I suspect our future is a monarchy but it does need to be a monarchy that fits the 21st century, it can't be one that is just, you know, a flamboyant display of power and wealth.

'It has got to change in some way so that it is more in tune with a country that is after all no longer top dog and maybe can no longer quite sustain that level of grandeur.'

He does though suspect that King Charles, who as the Prince of Wales became notorious for expressing forthright views and was alleged to have tried to influence government decisions via his 'black spider' memos to ministers, may not have given up pushing his opinions in private.

'I am interested that he may not quite have abandoned it, and I am curious about the role that he plays,' Mr Dimbleby said.

'But, as I say, William certainly seems to take a different view, we dont yet know what it is.'

The broadcaster admitted he was shocked when he examined the workings of the monarchy for his new series.

'Almost everything surprised me, because I had never really looked at it in depth,' he said.

'And we had wonderful interviews with the most senior members of the Palace hierarchy, the private secretaries to the Queen, about moments when they thought they had got it a bit wrong, Diana's death for instance.

David Dimbley presented Question Time for nearly 25 years, retiring in 2018

'They have a wonderful way of talking about it, "we were a bit behind the curve".'

Prince William recently insisted that he will not be afraid to make difficult decisions as monarch, telling Canadian actor Eugene Levy that 'change is on my agenda'.

Mr Dimbleby said: 'What William's on about is, if the monarchy is to remain popular in the future, it has got to make changes, [there have] got to be some radical alterations.

'I don't know what he is thinking of but we posit one or two in the [programme].'

The broadcaster's new documentary will also examine royal finances. Mr Dimbleby said King Charles is Britain's 'first billionaire' monarch.

He added of the Royal Family: 'They have a load of concessions about money, the tax that they pay voluntarily, taxes that they don't pay and I look at all that, and the workings of the Duchy [of Cornwall] and the way that money is spent, and how the Duchies operate, it is all contentious matters that people have looked into but I think is interesting.'

His latest comments come after he slammed the BBC's reluctance to criticise the Royal Family and admitted he was surprised by the 'degree of control' the Palace has over the corporation.

Speaking at the Henley Literary Festival in 2022, the former Question Time presenter accused the broadcaster of avoiding topics 'they feel their viewers will not like' after returning to cover the Queen's funeral last month.

And he highlighted topics such as things like 'the power that the palace has to change taxation legislation' and contrasting views on whether the Duchy of Cornwall should be paying capital gains tax.

He said: 'All those issues are never touched by the BBC because I think they feel their viewers will not like it - a visceral feeling.

'I think it is wrong and these things should be properly examined.'

What's the Monarchy For? begins on Tuesday at 9pm on BBC One.
Devastating footage shows the moment a father held his newborn baby on a yacht just five minutes before he was killed in a jetski crash in front of his partner.

Ali Watson, 28, was enjoying a boat trip with girlfriend Charlotte Lescott and their daughter Soulie in Dubai, where the British family had moved weeks earlier for a 'better life'.

Just minutes later Ali, from Coventry, hopped on a jetski before another one being ridden at speed by an instructor carrying a female passenger collided with him, killing him at the scene, an inquest heard yesterday.

In another tragic twist, Charlotte discovered Ali had cancelled their life insurance policy, and was unable to get the belongings they had shipped to Dubai because it was all in his name. She now uses TikTok to educate other families about the importance of having life insurance.

Emotional footage posted by the mother shows the young father cuddling his baby on a yacht next to his loving partner, just minutes before the collision.

Ali kisses his daughter on the cheek as she leans into him, putting her tiny hands on his chest.

Charlotte captioned the video: 'They don't know it yet but five minutes later he will ride a jetski and a terrible accident will take his life.'

She said the family were enjoying a 'normal day' when tragedy struck on December 6, 2020.

'It felt like a normal day. We woke up, we went to the mall. He got onto a jetski, put his life jacket on, and I said "be safe, love you", and that was the last time I ever spoke to him,' she said.

Ali Watson (left) and his partner Charlotte Lescott (right) were on a yacht with their baby in Dubai minutes before the fatal jetski crash happened

The couple had moved from Britain to the United Arab Emirates weeks earlier

'I watched the accident happen; I saw it all. I let out the most horrifying scream.'

After learning their life insurance policy had been cancelled, Charlotte said: 'You need to be aware of everything financially in the household. I don't tolerate anything now, don't just leave it to your partner.'

Ali had been working in the UAE as a marketing manager and went out on the organised boat trip in December 2020, having moved from the UK in September that year.

An inquest at Exeter Coroner's Court yesterday heard the father was riding one jetski when a second one collided with him.

The second jetski was being driven at a fast speed by an instructor with a female passenger onboard.

The coroner was told the passenger, who was a lifeguard, jumped off the water craft because she was frightened of the speed just before the collision happened.

Ali was thrown into the air and landed face down in the water. He died from blunt force chest wounds at the scene.

His stepfather John Watson said Ali was a 'likeable character' who had set up his own business in Dubai in 2020.

He had previous experience of riding jetskis and the ones used that day had been hired by the boat trip organisers.

The inquest heard suspended jail sentences and fines were handed out to those responsible for the crash.

Charlotte said the family were enjoying a 'normal day' when tragedy struck on December 6, 2020

The family-of-three before the tragic jetski crash in December 2020

Assistant Devon coroner Luisa Nicholson said Ali died as a result of an accident.

Charlotte's heartbreaking final words to her husband were 'be safe, I love you'.

The mother, a content creator from Birmingham, said: 'We went on a boat with a bunch of friends.

'He was out in the water on a jetski and the instructor collided with him.

'I was holding the baby on the boat and witnessed it.

'The last thing I said was "be safe, I love you".

'My world stopped spinning the moment Ali died. I couldn't function. The world around you is still carrying on.'

Charlotte and Ali met on Depop in 2018 when he messaged her after she bought some trainers off him.

The pair hit it off and moved in together three months later.

It was December 2019 when they found out they were expecting a baby together. The couple were over the moon, and then Soulie arrived on July 29, 2020.

Due to the restrictions in place in the UK the family decided to try out Dubai in September.

Charlotte said: 'He really wasn't happy in the UK. There was no quality of life. We ended up building a life there.

'It was just nice. We had a better quality of life. We could take Soulie swimming. I felt life was complete.'

But Charlotte's world came crashing down just weeks later.

She said: 'Even when I saw the crash I didn't think the worst.

'I thought he'd have a broken leg. Death doesn't go through your mind.

'When my friend said Char you need to sit down - I knew what she was going to say. I just felt my whole world had collapsed.

The couple were over the moon when they found out Charlotte was pregnant

Charlotte now uses TikTok to educate other families about the importance of having life insurance

'I just remember screaming at the top of my lungs.'

She said she struggled to keep going for Soulie when she found out their life insurance policy wasn't active.

Now she raises awareness to make sure others are financially aware and to keep Ali's memory alive.

She said: 'It had been cancelled. We had a lot of stuff in a shipment. A lot of Soulie's clothes, the cot.

'I couldn't get it released to me because it was in Ali's name.

'Me and my baby had literally nothing. When you lose someone unexpectedly, life stops. You still have to pay rent or mortgage and bills.

'They don't stop but you have stopped.'

Now Charlotte is in a better place and has an open conversation with Soulie about her dad.

She said: 'If I didn't have her I would be lost. I had to carry on because she was a new born. Soulie is very aware of her dad. She's dreams of him. She's got his eyes. She's very fragile, sensitive and very kind.

'She's such a ray of sunshine. I just want to protect her at all costs.'

Charlotte did have family and friends to support her when she was back in the UK but felt embarrassed to ask for help sometimes.

She said: 'I was embarrassed to ask family. I didn't want to say "can you help me financially?" You don't want to think about paying the bills.

'I didn't take ownership of my finances.'

Charlotte now wants to make sure others are not relying on their partners financially and have life insurance - like Mumsurance - in place.

She said: 'Be aware of it for yourself. Don't just rely on him.'
A popular pub landlady was killed in a devastating blaze after the battery on her Vax cordless vacuum cleaner exploded, an inquest has heard.

Ann Michelle Male, 58, died from smoke inhalation after a fire tore through her country pub in the village of Stottesdon, Shropshire, on July 14 this year.

Emergency services were called to the Fighting Cocks Inn at around 6.52pm after neighbours reported seeing smoke coming from a window.

Fire crews forced their way into the pub and found a bedroom ablaze.

Teams had to tackle thick black smoke as they opened the door and used a thermal imaging camera to find Mrs Male unresponsive on the floor, an inquest at Shropshire Coroners' Court in Shrewsbury heard.

Firefighters started to perform CPR, with paramedics taking over after they arrived, but sadly she was pronounced dead at 7.40pm.

Ross Donnelly, of Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service, said he believed the fire was accidental and had started after an explosion in the battery belonging to her Vax Blade cordless vacuum cleaner.

The inquest heard Mrs Male, known as Annie, was 'the life and soul of every room she entered' and a 'deeply loving' person.

Ann Michelle Male (left, pictured with partner Rob), 58, died from smoke inhalation after a fire tore through her country pub in the village of Stottesdon, Shropshire, on July 14 this year

Emergency services were called to the Fighting Cocks Inn (pictured) at around 6.52pm after neighbours reported seeing smoke coming from a window

The hearing was told Mrs Male, originally from Sutton Coldfield in the West Midlands, had revived the country pub after completing a lifelong dream to own and run her own business.

The pub remains closed in the aftermath of the fire.

A report commissioned by Vax was provided for the hearing, after the company had the remains of the battery examined by an independent expert.

Shropshire senior coroner John Ellery said the report concluded it was not possible to say if it was a genuine Vax battery which had exploded.

But the coroner accepted evidence from Mrs Male's partner Rob, who said the battery was an original Vax battery.

A solicitor representing the company at the hearing told the coroner that all Vax batteries are manufactured to international standards and subject to 'rigorous testing'.

The inquest was also told there was no pattern of manufacturing defect with the product.

Mr Donnelly's report said that the battery had gone into a state of 'thermal runaway' which led to the explosion.

The inquest heard Mrs Male, known as Annie, was 'the life and soul of every room she entered' and a 'deeply loving' person

Flowers were left at the scene for Mrs Male, who was a popular local landlady

Police outside The Fighting Cocks Pub in Stottesdon following the fatal blaze

The fire was caused by the explosion of a battery in the Vax Blade cordless vacuum cleaner (stock image)

The inquest heard it can be caused by a number of issues, such as a defective battery, the battery having been damaged by an impact, ageing, or environmental exposure.

However, Mr Ellery said that because of the state of the battery after the explosion there was no conclusive evidence which showed the cause for the catastrophic failure.

He added: 'What we do not know is precisely when the battery exploded, but when it happened it must have immediately caused smoke for Annie to fall unconscious.'

Mr Ellery concluded that Mrs Male's death was accidental, but said the case served as a warning about the potential dangers of lithium ion batteries.

He said: 'This inquest does highlight the dangers of batteries that can explode, whether they are charging or not.'

The inquest heard a moving tribute from Mrs Male's daughter, Georgia Higgins, who described her as 'the life and soul of every room she entered' and 'a deeply loving person who was the glue that held our family together.'

The statement told how travelling had become Mrs Male's passion but 'only for sunny spots where she could soak up the rays'.

It described how she had 'transformed' the Fighting Cocks after taking over, 'breathing new life into the venue and the village'.

Mrs Higgins's statement explained how her mother had 'adored' the pub, and 'fell in love with the country life'.

She added: 'She is missed by so many; the world is undoubtedly a darker place without her light.'

Vax's parent company has been contacted for comment.
President Trump is mulling whether to deport the family of the Afghan migrant accused of opening fire on National Guardsmen in Washington DC.

Trump said his team are 'looking at that right now' when asked about potentially deporting the wife and five children of 29-year-old terror suspect Rahmanullah Lakanwal.

'Were looking at the whole situation with family. Its a tragic situation,' he added.

Trump spoke of potentially deporting Lakanwal's family as the White House said it would 'permanently pause' all migration from third-world countries.

At an event on Thursday evening, Trump also announced the passing of West Virginia National Guard soldier Sarah Beckstrom, 20, days after the shooting.

The other National Guard soldier targeted in the shooting, Andrew Wolfe, 24, remains in critical condition. On Friday morning, charges against Lakanwal were upgraded to first degree murder following Beckstrom's death.

Lakanwal was brought to the United States in 2021 as part of former president Joe Biden's Operation Allies Welcome when he withdrew from Afghanistan, which facilitated temporary visas for Afghans who assisted US Special Forces.

He settled in Bellingham, Washington, with his wife and at least five children, and their home was raided on Thursday by FBI agents.

Officials said at a Thursday press conference that Lakanwal drove across the country from his home in Bellingham to DC before he fired at the troops on Wednesday afternoon with a .357 revolver.

President Trump revealed that the White House is considering deporting the family of the Afghan migrant accused of opening fire on National Guardsmen in Washington DC

Afghan soldier Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, was named as the alleged gunman in custody over the horror shoot-out

FBI Director Kash Patel said his agency was carrying out a 'coast-to-coast' investigation, which has included raiding two properties in Washington associated with the suspect.

Lakanwal was previously charged with three counts of assault with intent to kill while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, however officials said the charges were dependent on the condition of the victims.

Following Beckstrom's passing, it is likely officials will make good on a vow from Attorney General Pam Bondi after the shooting, where she told Fox News that the White House could pursue terrorism charges and the death penalty in the case.

Late on Wednesday night, CIA Director John Ratcliffe told Fox News Lakanwal had direct links to the CIA from his work alongside US Special Forces in Afghanistan.

'The Biden administration justified bringing the alleged shooter to the United States in September 2021 due to his prior work with the U.S. government, including CIA,' Ratcliffe admitted.

He said his involvement with the CIA was 'as a member of a partner force in Kandahar, which ended shortly following the chaotic evacuation.'

Sarah Beckstrom, 20, tragically lost her life two days after she was shot in the attack

Andrew Wolfe, 24, remains in critical condition

Officials said Lakanwal drove across the country from his home in Bellingham, Washington, to DC before he fired at the troops on Wednesday afternoon with a .357 revolver

Like President Trump, Ratcliffe slammed the former administration's 'disastrous' actions during the withdrawal of Afghanistan, which allowed unvetted foreigners to enter the US on temporary visas.

'The individual - and so many others - should have never been allowed to come here,' Ratcliffe said.

'Our citizens and service members deserve far better than to endure the ongoing fallout from the Biden administration's catastrophic failures.'

Trump announced Beckstrom's death on Thursday evening during a call with military leaders to mark the Thanksgiving holiday.

He said: 'Shes just passed away. Shes no longer with us. Shes looking down at us right now... she was an incredible person, outstanding in every single way.

The apartment complex where Rahmanullah Lakanwal, the suspect in the shooting of two National Guard members, and his family reportedly lived in Bellingham, Washington

Trump announced on Thursday night that his administration would 'permanently pause' all migration'from third world countries and order a green card audit of 19 nations in response to the shooting.

In a Truth Social post, Trump blasted former president Joe Biden for letting unvetted migrants stream into America - claiming he allowed the Afghan shooting suspect into the US during the disastrous 2021 withdrawal.

'I will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the US system to fully recover,' he wrote on social media.

Trump also vowed to end all federal benefits for noncitizens, denaturalize migrants who undermine the US, and deport any foreign nationals deemed a security risk or 'non-compatible with Western Civilization'.

'Only REVERSE MIGRATION can fully cure this situation,' he wrote in the Truth Social post.

'Other than that, HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL, except those that hate, steal, murder, and destroy everything that America stands for - You wont be here for long!'

The countries that will face a re-examination are: Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen, Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela.
Thousands of travellers have been evacuated from a major Australian airport after a fire broke out on Friday night.

At least 1,500 people were delayed by two hours at Melbourne Airport's Terminal 1 after the fire started about 7pm.

A Melbourne Airport spokesperson said the fire was extinguished in less than 20 minutes and didn't spread to other terminals.

'Following a fire in Terminal 1 earlier this evening, emergency services have cleared the terminal as safe to partially reopen and for operations to recommence,' the spokesperson said.

'We are now supporting passengers as they return to the terminal and operations resume. The safety of passengers and staff is our top priority right now. We thank travellers for their patience and co-operation throughout the disruption.'

According to Flightradar24, a line of 11 planes were on the tarmac at the domestic terminal at 9pm.

Qantas passengers who had recently landed in Melbourne were stranded on the tarmac as the fire was being put out. As a result of the evacuation, there are some impacts to travelling customers including a number of delays and cancellations.

Qantas is working to reaccommodate all customers on the first available services on Saturday, including additional scheduled flights.

Thousands hafve been delayed at Melbourne Airport due to a fire in Terminal 1

Qantas passengers are facing long delays
A Democrat who could become the San Francisco mayor's right-hand woman believes police officers should go gunless in the crime-riddled city.

Natalie Gee is on the shortlist of contenders to fill the Sunset District supervisor seat inside City Hall despite the local police union rallying against her consideration.

Louis Wong, the union's president, said Gee's views on law enforcement are concerning and claimed she had the 'desire to silence the collective voice of the rank-and-file officers who keep this city safe,' he wrote in a letter to Mayor Daniel Lurie, The San Francisco Chronicle reported.

Gee indicated in a 2024 candidate questionnaire that she supported having the policing union dissolved and that officers should carry 'tasers and non-lethal weapons instead of using guns'.

She also said that she supported getting rid of qualified immunity, which shields officers and public officials from some lawsuits, The Chronicle reported.

Public safety is Lurie's biggest priority as he continues to work to clean up the downtown area and crack down on drug-fueled crimes.

Although citywide crime is down 25 percent compared to last year, the Bay Area city's Union Square zone has become an area to avoid for residents thanks to rampant fentanyl use, frequent thefts and violence.

Natalie Gee is on the shortlist of contenders to fill the Sunset District supervisor seat inside City Hall, but the local police union is rallying against her consideration

Gee indicated in a 2024 candidate questionnaire that she supported having the policing union dissolved and that officers should carry 'tasers and non-lethal weapons instead of using guns'

Out-of-control homeless encampments and crime had become a mainstay of the downtown Tenderloin district, forcing major brands to close flagship stores.

Gee's district would be on the other side of San Francisco from the Tenderloin District. Sunset is considered one of the safer neighborhoods.

On her website, Gee talked about wanting to get officers 'out of their cars and back onto neighborhood beats, where they can prevent crime through visibility and connection'.

'Ill also support expanding unarmed response teams for mental health and wellness calls, so police can focus on violent crime and community safety can be shared across trained professionals,' she said.

In response to Wong's letter, Gee said she would 'welcome the opportunity to meet with' the union president to 'work toward a real solution', The Chronicle reported.

Gee has not publicly addressed the concern around her policing stance.

'I have always shown up in good faith with a willingness to collaborate, and I will continue choosing unity,' she said in a statement.

Gee, who currently serves as an aide to Supervisor Shamann Walton, is currently up against three others for the Sunset District role.

Louis Wong, the union's president, said Gee's views on law enforcement is concerning and claimed she had the 'desire to silence the collective voice of the rank-and-file officers who keep this city safe'

Mayor Daniel Lurie, who recently visited the district she would cover, told residents that safety is his number one priority as he tries to clean up the crime-riddled city

Lurie, who recently visited the district, told residents that safety is his number one priority.

'And I think its a huge priority for this district,' he said.

But it wasn't just her beliefs on policing that Wong took issue with. He also highlighted to Lurie that Gee has indicated that she has donated to anti-police issues and has said she wants to dissolve ICE, and is supportive of reparations among other progressive policies.

If Lurie selects her, she will hold the role in the interim, but has said she plans to run for the seat permanently this summer.

She would be replacing Beya Alcaraz, who vacated the seat just a week into her tenure.

She left after questionable business practices she may have engaged in while running a pet store surfaced. She evaded giving a direct answer to the allegations.

'I fought tooth and nail to keep my business open,' she told ABC 7. 'The city makes it really hard to be able to operate a small business.

'I don't owe any taxes. I, as a small business owner, it was really hard. We didn't as a business, every cent got poured back in. We didn't make any money. And so these are the things I did as a small business owner. We're to keep our lights on, to keep our employees, paid and to keep our animals well cared for.'

Daily Mail has contacted Gee and Alcaraz for comment.
If the Covid Inquiry, which rumbles remorselessly on, is looking for anything else to add to its expensive agenda, it might reflect on this: how pandemic-era boys cooped up in their bedrooms got hooked on the worst of the internet  from porn to propaganda  ruining untold numbers of them in the process.

The most damaged among this generation have gone on to commit the violence they binge online. Over and over again its the same story: modern attackers who came of age during Covid, who have since been marinating their brains in internet bile or extreme porn, who lurk on platforms such as Discord or 4chan, finding consolation among other comrades-in-grievance.

Such as 20-year-old Thomas Crooks, the quiet, bespectacled nursing home worker who attempted to assassinate Donald Trump in Pennsylvania last year and was subsequently killed by the secret service. This month we learned of his disturbing online life: espousing political violence; searching for muscle mommies (a warped sexual fetish of scantily clad cartoon characters with muscular male bodies and female heads); dabbling in the sub-cultures that lurk in the strangest corners of the internet.

One of Crookss profiles was on DeviantArt, a site notorious for hosting a community of furries, people who identify as human-like animals or who have a sexual interest in them.

While some simply like to adopt a fursona and pretend to be, say, a wolf who walks upright and shops in Tesco, others fantasise about sexualised cartoon animals: Disney gone deviant.

Crookss online habits revealed fascinating parallels with Tyler James Robinson, another twenty-something dabbler in the furry movement who in September killed Right-wing activist Charlie Kirk at a rally in Utah. Robinson has yet to enter a plea and his preliminary hearing is set to start on January 16.

A furry fandom website features an account name matching one that Robinson used on his various gaming and online accounts.

And one of his shell casings was engraved with the words NoTices Bulge OWO Whats This?  gobbledegook to most of us, but to the furry subculture a clear reference to the bulge of a man role-playing as a cat.

Tyler James Robinson, who killed Right-wing activist Charlie Kirk in September, is believed to have been involved in the furry community

'Quiet' Thomas Crooks was shot dead by the secret service after he attempted to assassinate Donald Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania last year

Both assassins were born in 2003, meaning they were at a formative age when the pandemic hit. Like millions of teenage boys, they were coming of age  socially and sexually. Just as they were trying to make sense of their hormones, urges and identities, the internet emerged as a 24/7 seductress. And while being online for hours and hours a day might have seemed alarming in 2019, by 2021 a pandemic-altered world barely registered that a swathe of young people now spent their lives glued to the internet. Friends described Kirks killer, Robinson, as being terminally online.

A third young man born in 2003 was Payton Gendron, the avowed white supremacist who in 2022 killed ten people in a supermarket in Buffalo, New York.

According to his twisted online diary, the mental rot set in when I first started to use 4chan [a notorious internet forum] a few months after Covid started. Of the pandemics earliest days, Gendron wrote: I lost myself and a bit of my sanity.

In 2021, meanwhile, a 21-year-old attacker named Robert Aaron Long killed eight people in Atlanta  mainly Asian women  later blaming his addiction to online pornography.

Long had been so desperate to escape his round-the-clock urges that he even begged for his computer to be taken away. Failing to slay his demons that way, a twisted logic led him to try to kill people working in massage parlours, on the grounds that they were representatives of the temptation he had failed to overcome.

The world inhabited by young men such as these is entirely different from ours: a place with its own language, nihilistic in-jokes and references. To those living in these sub-cultures, we are normies  ordinary people who struggle to understand the depths of their misery or the complexities of their personality. Their flesh and blood might be in our world, but their hearts and souls reside in another one entirely.

Crooks, Robinson, Gendron and Long are extreme examples, but they are just the most violent and visible tip of the iceberg. Put simply, the leap we collectively undertook around five years ago  from the internet as a nice place to while away an hour as somewhere to spend most of your life  has ruined a generation of young men.

Robert Aaron Long killed eight women in Atlanta in 2021, mainly of Asian descent, and blamed his addiction to online pornography

White supremacist Payton Gendron weeps during his sentencing for killing ten people at a supermarket in Buffalo, New York in 2022

Millions of males in their late teens and 20s are living half-lives, shut away in musty bedrooms with no horizon beyond the top of their monitor, no self-esteem, no desire to participate in a real world that is drab and dull by comparison, and in which they hold pitifully little power and agency.

While many young women are also snared by the internet, its lure  and its most extreme offerings  are particularly powerful and poisonous for young men.

Those who refuse to accept any hardwired differences between the sexes may quail at this, but the male psyche does tend to yearn for tribal belonging, adventure and adrenaline with a force that is less common in women.

When modern life denies young men these things, the sense of grievance can be acute. Enter the internet, which excels at consoling them with infinite varieties of distraction and depravity.

Take the hideous phenomenon known as gooning, a new kind of sexual kick gaining traction among this pornography-obsessed generation of men. Rather than seeing the act as a one-off, the gooners goal is to masturbate for hours at a time.

Thousands are in potential gooncaves  sitting in rooms furnished with three, four or more screens lit up with extreme pornography as they livestream themselves to equally damaged individuals.

That this cult is alive and growing should shock, but frankly it doesnt. If you have a generation of young people whose primary source of interest and excitement comes through an internet connection, then of course the ante must always be upped. There must be ever-inventive ways to get that dopamine hit.

Our feeling towards the Gen-Zs who lose months or years of their lives to chat forums  and even to those who become addicted to extreme pornography  should not be mere disgust or disdain, but also deep sympathy. Their round-the-clock access to highly addictive, soul-staining content has overwhelmed their ability to see whats good for them, and what good they might achieve.

Aside from those who kill or do harm, I feel sorry for those whose social and sexual instincts have been warped thanks to years spent in these sub-cultures. My anger is reserved for the internet firms who make inordinate sums from facilitating these communities  and the social media platforms that are grotesquely indifferent to the extreme content that is making them very, very rich.

You could call their stance defending free speech or free expression; you could also call it turning a blind eye while the seeds of misery  and, even, as we have seen, extreme violence  are sown.

Government after government seems incapable of forcing these companies to take action, too in thrall to Big Tech, too timid even to ban smartphones in schools.

It is now quite clear that, while teenagers were at that critical age during the pandemic, they got sucked online  some into its most violent, provocative and depraved corners. Many remain stuck there today.

Meanwhile, the internet giants shirk responsibility, politicians shrug their shoulders, and those who know better look the other way. When will we wake up to the harm being done?
A famed Portland oyster restaurant that has sat on the same corner for 118 years is on the brink of closing amid a decline in the Democratic city following the pandemic and the legalization of all drugs.

Dan & Louis Oyster Bar is one of the oldest restaurants in Portland and first opened in 1907.

But the community it has served for more than a century has recently evaporated into a 'ghost town'.

'We are literally living paycheck to paycheck,' Michelle Wachsmuth, a co-owner who married into the family, told The Oregonian. 'It depends on how many people are coming in, really, whether I can pay my bills right now.'

The restaurant first hit a road bump in 2020 when the Covid outbreak forced it to close. Conditions were only exacerbated by Portland's ill-advised experiment with drug decriminalization.

The policy saw downtown become an open-air drug market leading to protests which drove customers away.

By 2023, Oregon counted more than 20,000 homeless people, nearly two-thirds of them unsheltered, as overdose deaths surged.

Even though the city rolled back the policy last year, Michelle and her husband, Meinert 'Keoni' Wachsmuth say the damage has been done.

Dan & Louis Oyster Bar is one of the oldest restaurants in Portland, opening in 1907, but it may have to close after it lost tons of business after the city decriminalized drugs and the pandemic

'We are literally living paycheck to paycheck,' Michelle Wachsmuth (pictured with her husband) told The Oregonian . 'It depends on how many people are coming in, really, whether I can pay my bills right now'

'If you love us, youve got to get back down here,' Michelle begged. 'All of the old favorites will be gone if people dont start coming downtown again.'

The oyster bar took such a hit, the couple sometimes closes the restaurant up to two to three days a week.

And now that the summer season is gone and a nearby market will be closed between January and February, the couple is unsure if their restaurant can continue its legacy in Portland.

'It might be easier to just walk away from everything, but I feel this responsibility to Portland - to this historic Portland,' Michelle told The Oregonian.

'We really want to keep this going as much as we can for as long as we can.'

But they're aware they have to 'sell a certain amount of dollars a day to make payroll'.

They are struggling to pull in diners for lunch and dinner, and often have plenty of open tables waiting for hungry residents.

Despite hard times the couple still offer a bowl of clam chowder to anyone in need - a perk that started when SNAP was threatened during the 43-day government shutdown.

Pictured: A drug user in Portland in November 2025. The city decriminalized drugs in 2020 before rolling back on it in 2024

A homeless encampment in Portland in October. Michelle is now begging locals to come back to the downtown area and patronize their restaurant, as the 118-year-old restaurant is struggling

Pictured; A person doing drugs in Portland in October. 'It might be easier to just walk away from everything, but I feel this responsibility to Portland - to this historic Portland,' Michelle told The Oregonian

The Daily Mail has reached out to the restaurant for comment.

Despite some rebound in downtown tourism, homeless encampments and drug addicts can still be seen all around.

Office vacancy is still at a high with 35 percent empty - the highest among America's top 25 largest downtowns.

In 2022, Carlene, a then-21-year-old student, exclusively told the Daily Mail that she 'walked with blinders' to avoid viewing the monstrosity the city had become.

'Otherwise you wouldn't come here at all,' she said.
A massive homeless encampment has popped up near two of Seattle's most famous tourist hot spots, as the city braces for a super-woke new mayor to take office.

Shocking images shared on social media showed dozens of tents surrounded by litter sitting outside the Museum of Pop Culture and the Space Needle.

'This encampment started out as two tents several months ago, and it's been allowed to grow and fester. Right around the corner from there there are more tents on a side street,' one X user wrote.

The museum and Space Needle are among the Emerald City's most popular attractions, with many locals now concerned that the influx of tent-dwelling vagrants badly sullies the area.

Advocates have sounded the alarm that policies from Seattle's newly elected democratic socialist mayor Katie Wilson, 43, could lead to an influx of homeless people, drug use and growing encampments.

The director of We Heart Seattle, a organization dedicated to clearing trash from the city's streets, Andrea Suarez told KIRO Newsradio she is concerned that more tent camps will pop up in the city's parks.

'This is going to be an inflow nightmare. What's going through my mind is what's going through the mind of the drug addict, what's going through the mind of the criminal. They are going to come to Seattle,' she said.

Wilson, who has been compared to fellow Democratic Socialist Zohran Mamdani, the Mayor-elect of New York City, campaigned on ending encampment sweeps and treating drug use as a public health crisis instead of criminal matter.

Shocking images shared on social media showed dozens of tents surrounded by litter sitting outside the Museum of Pop Culture (pictured)

Advocates have sounded the alarm that policies from Seattle's newly elected democratic socialist mayor Katie Wilson (pictured), 43, could lead to an influx of homeless people

Early data indicated that overdose deaths due to fentanyl in Seattle and King County in 2025 are on the rise and forecast to match or exceed last year's totals, Fox 13 reported.

'This is worse than I have seen since 2020 during the middle of the pandemic,' Suarez said. 'This is not an encampment. This is a drug scene.'

Seattle has become a byword for the surge in crime, homelessness and open drug use that swept many American cities that adopted a progressive stance in the wake of George Floyd's June 2020 murder.

The city's ritzy Capitol Hill neighborhood was overtaken by anarchists that summer and nicknamed CHAZ (Capitol Hill Autonomous Zone), ruining homes and businesses.

But while other blue cities have sought to curb woke excesses, Wilson and her ilk appear happy to indulge them, frustrating many in a city once known as the wealthy headquarters for tech giants including Microsoft and Amazon.

Critics have called Wilson, who also campaigned on affordability, privileged and out of touch, as she regularly receives checks from her professor parents to pay for childcare.

Those critics also highlight that Wilson dropped out of Oxford University just six weeks shy of graduation, leaving the school without debt thanks to her parents.

Outgoing Mayor Bruce Harrell's reelection website featured a quote from Carolyn Riley-Payne, former Seattle King County NAACP President, saying: 'It's hard to trust a candidate running on their challenges with affordability when her familys wealth shields her from actual consequences and financial stress.

'Wilson chose to not graduate from college, and now chooses to rely on parental subsidy to avoid financial hardship.' Wilson's new job will pay her around $230,000-a-year, meaning she'll be less reliant on her parents for money.

On her parents' dime, Wilson, studied physics and philosophy at Balliol, a constituent college of Oxford University in the UK, before quitting to drift across America on a bus.

Her father, David Wilson, is a distinguished former professor who paid for her education and has admitted he regularly helped his 43-year-old daughter pay for childcare costs.

Social media users said the homeless encampment near the museum and iconic Space Needle (pictured) started a few months ago

Wilson (pictured) campaigned on ending encampment sweeps and treating drug use as a public health crisis instead of criminal matter

David told Daily Mail that he needed some time to understand his daughter's shocking decision to leave the English university in 2004 with only a few weeks left in her last semester.

'Katie dropped out of Oxford and she decided to fall in the direction of social activism, of course they [Katie and her husband] made their own way by doing odd jobs,' he said.

David said that while touring the US, Katie and her husband decided to stay in Seattle for many reasons, particularly an open library system that would allow her to access books from the University of Washington.

'She made damn sure that she could actually continue to do what college students do,' her father said.

'What you can see from that is she never really left the whole ethos of college and academic life - scholarship, science, telling the truth. It's almost a moral system that stayed with her, that remained a part of who she is.'

He said that his daughter had an all-or-nothing mentality, meaning that to pursue her fight as an activist, she needed no safety net: 'It seemed very ill-advised at the time.'

'Why would you walk away from something like that? I kept thinking, why start from nothing? Not that you [Katie] gave us any choice,' David said.

'But now I understand. It was that whole idea of burning bridges so you don't have a Plan B.'

Critics have called Wilson, who also campaigned on affordability, privileged and out of touch, as she regularly receives checks from her professor parents (pictured with her father)

However, her father said he was not the only one skeptical of Wilson's decision; her husband Scott Myers, with whom she traveled the country after dropping out, allegedly also disapproved of her decision to leave school.

Wilson told KUOW that when she moved to Seattle in 2004, she cut herself off from her parents' money and 'worked a bunch of working-class jobs.'

'Psychologically, it really did something to me,' Wilson said.

In 2011, she founded the Transit Riders Union, a nonprofit focused on improving public transportation in Seattle and Kings County. Tax records show she earned close to $73,000 from the nonprofit in 2022 while working 55-hour weeks.

Currently, her husband does not have a paying job. That means the couple's household income is below what would be considered enough money to support themselves and their child in Seattle.

'It just speaks to how expensive and unaffordable it is, right?' she told KUOW.

'If you're lucky enough to have parents who can pitch in a little bit, that's not something to be embarrassed about.'

A spokesperson for Wilson's campaign previously told the Daily Mail: 'Families from all different kinds of economic backgrounds support each other in all different kinds of ways.'
A Long Island county has plans for increased security measures on its border with New York City following Zohran Mamdani's mayoral win.

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman told Fox News he is 'doing everything necessary to make sure Nassau County is safe.'

He announced plans to bolster the police force and increase collaboration with ICE which he says will protect residents from crime.

'We are installing technology along the border to New York City that will read license plates, have facial recognition that will have video cameras,' he told Fox.

Nassau County shares a border with the Big Apple borough of Queens. An estimated 300,000 Long Island residents make the commute to New York City everyday.

'This new technology will enhance our ability to read license plates, improve video monitoring, and strengthen our overall security posture,' he wrote on social media.

'Nassau County will always take every measure necessary to keep our communities safe.'

Blakeman told the outlet that Mamdani 'talks like he's pro-criminal' and has even called the new mayor 'anti-American'.

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman is cracking down on crime amid fears of a surge in crime following Zohran Mamdani's electoral win

Zohran Mamdani's 'radical policies have inspired a new focus on surveillance on the border' Blakeman said

Mamdani has promoted pro-immigrant policies and even previously vowed to cut funding from the NYPD.

He has since walked back on that statement and recently decided to keep on police Commissioner Jessica Tisch from the Adam's administration.

Blakeman vowed to tap into the Nassau County police force as a direct response to Mamdani's 'radical' policies.

'With the incoming mayors radical policies, were taking proactive steps to protect our residents and maintain law and order,' Blakeman said in a social media post.

The Long Island county was declared the safest county in the country by US News & World Report in 2024.

The county executive is an avid Trump supporter and has critiqued Mamdani's role as mayor even before he was elected this November.

Nassau County was reported to be the safest county in the US in 2024

'Were hoping [Mamdani] doesnt get elected, but we will be prepared if he does,' he told the New York Post in October.

'Well hire more police officers, make sure that our patrols on the border are more intensive, and we will do everything in our power to keep the residents of Nassau County safe.'

He also threatened to stop sharing Nassau County Police intelligence with the NYPD.

Amidst Mamdani's victory it seems that Blakeman has kept his promise.

One hundred cadets enrolled in Nassau's police academy will graduate next year and join the police force along with hundreds of new hires.

Blakeman also ridiculed New York's status as a sanctuary state, calling the position a 'big mistake'.

Nassau County has taken a non-sanctuary stance, by Blakeman's instruction. He praised the county's 'comprehensive agreement with ICE' and robust police force.

Blakeman has critiqued New York state's sanctuary state policy and chosen to bolster police and collaboration with ICE

Blakeman won re-election to the county executive seat on November 4 with his pro-law and order policies.

'I never ran away from my pro-Trump policies,' he said, discussing his win.

'I supported the president, and I continue to support the president. People respected me for that, even if they disagree, because they knew that I wasn't a phony.'

He is said to be eyeing a 2026 run at the New York governor's seat.

The Daily Mail contacted Blakeman and Mamdani for comment.
No law requires them to be notified prior to transfer

Corrections departments have no legal obligation to notify parents and guardians when their children are being transferred between centres in one Aussie territory.

The Northern Territory's corrections department has been accused of shuttling children from Alice Springs to Darwin without notifying their families.

These transfers have been happening since at least November 2024, two politicians have alleged.

It all began when Central Australia's Alice Springs Youth Detention Centre had its school closed by the territory government.

After that, children began to be moved, according to independent member for Johnston Justine Davis.

Her suspicions began with reports of children 'vanishing' between detention centres, she said.

Ms Davis asked Corrections Minister Gerard Maley if her suspicions were correct during question time in the NT Parliament on Thursday.

These theories were proven partially true when Mr Maley confirmed children had been moved but he failed to specify whether the laws had changed around notifying parents of it.

Children in the Northern Territory are allegedly being moved between correctional facilities without their parents' knowledge (pictured, Holtze Youth Detention Centre in Darwin)

The territory has no law that requires parents or guardians be notified when their children are transferred between facilities (pictured, stock)

Justine Davis mentioned the issue during question time in parliament on Thursday

Ms Davis noted there was 'laughter from the other side of the chamber' as she asked the minister her question.

'Reports say your government has changed a critical policy regarding the transfer of young people from Alice Springs to the Holtze Youth Detention Centre, specifically that parents no longer need to be notified before a child is moved,' she said, reports the ABC.

Mr Maley dodged the specifics of her question and instead insisted any child's parents have the 'personal responsibility' of knowing where their children are.

'How would you not know that your child has been to court and is going through the court process,' he said.

'If they did not know about it, maybe it is back to personal responsibility.'

The Department of Corrections told the publication it always attempted to notify any 'relevant adults' when children were transferred between facilities.

Although the department did confirm there was no legal requirement for guardians to be notified.

This policy also extends to parents and direct family members.

Corrections Minister Gerard Maley said it was parents' responsibility to know where their children are

However, the department stressed that 'significant effort is made by Youth Justice staff for a detainee's parent or caregiver to be informed' prior to any such move.

Outside parliament, Shadow Attorney-General Chansey Paech told reporters it was incumbent on the CLP to be honest about its policy.

Since Ms Davis' efforts in parliament Mr Paech said he had been 'inundated' with messages from families who did not know where their children were being held.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted the Department of Corrections for comment.
A hero National Guardsman was seen gunning down suspected DC terror shooter Rahmanullah Lakanwal seconds after the Afghan opened fire on two soldiers.

The unidentified soldier let off five rounds immediately after Lakanwal, 29, is said to have ambushed Andrew Wolfe, 24, and Sarah Beckstrom, 20, who has since died.

Footage captured by a bystander in a vehicle showed Lakanwal carrying a snub nose revolver, he was seen on the ground seconds later.

Lakanwal is in custody while hospitalized with non-life-threatening wounds sustained in the shootout.

DC US Attorney Jeanine Pirro said on Thursday that the lone gunman was armed with a .357 Smith and Wesson revolver when he allegedly opened fire on the two 'without provocation, ambush style.'

She said: 'One guardsman is struck, goes down, and then the shooter leans over and strikes the guardsman again. Another guardsman is struck several times.

'Fellow guardsmen who were there responded immediately, engaging the suspect, neutralizing the threat and subduing him at the scene.'

Donald Trump announced the death of Beckstrom on Thursday evening after she succumbed to her injuries.

The unidentified soldier let off five rounds immediately after Lakanwal, 29, is said to have ambushed Andrew Wolfe, 24, and Sarah Beckstrom, 20

DC US Attorney Jeanine Pirro said on Thursday that the lone gunman was armed with a .357 Smith and Wesson revolver when he allegedly opened fire

Wolfe, left, and Beckstrom, right, were said to have been sworn in just 24 hours before they were shot on Wednesday, Backstrom died from her injuries on Thursday evening

'She's no longer with us. She's looking down on us right now. Her parents are with her. It's just happened. She was savagely attacked, she's dead.'

Trump went on to say Beckstrom was 'an incredible person. Outstanding in every single way, department.'

He said the attack was 'just horrible.'

According to authorities, Lakanwal drove across the country from his home in Bellingham, Washington, to DC before he fired at the troops.

Afghan soldier Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, was named as the alleged gunman

He was brought to the United States in 2021 as part of Joe Biden's Operation Allies Welcome, following the withdrawal from Afghanistan.

The program evacuated and resettled tens of thousands of Afghans after the US exited.

Prior to his arrival, the suspect worked with the US, including the CIA, 'as a member of a partner force in Kandahar,' John Ratcliffe, the spy agency's director said.

He did not specify what work Lakanwal did, but said the relationship 'ended shortly following the chaotic evacuation' of US service members from Afghanistan.

The two victims were on the ground inside the city as part of Trump's ongoing effort to clean up the streets of DC.

Beckstrom is seen here alongside her father Gary in an image shared to social media

Following the shooting, the President's administration quickly ordered 500 more National Guard members to the city.

On Thursday, Trump announced he would 'permanently pause migration' from third developing countries and ordered a green card audit of 19 nations in response to the attack.

He also vowed to end all federal benefits for noncitizens, denaturalize migrants who undermine the US, and deport any foreign nationals deemed a security risk or 'non-compatible with Western Civilization.'

'I will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the US system to fully recover,' he wrote on Truth Social.

Pirro said the suspect remains under heavy guard inside a hospital following the shooting.

He currently faces charges of assault with intent to kill while armed and in possession of a firearm during a crime of violence.

Pirro said during the press conference that 'it's too soon to say' what the suspect's motives were.

She added: 'We are praying that they survive and that the highest charge will not have to be murder in the first degree.

'But make no mistake, if they do not, that will certainly be the charge.'
A Maryland man living in an RV allegedly doused his family home with gasoline and set it on fire after a fallout with his wife who lived in the house, police said.

Michael Weisgerber, 59, was arrested and charged with arson after allegedly admitting to authorities that he intentionally set fire to his Sykesville home on Tuesday, according to WMAR 2 News.

The blaze allegedly followed a dispute with his estranged wife, who had been living in the property while he stayed in a mobile home parked in the driveway.

Weisgerber told cops he insisted that he never intended to harm his wife when he allegedly ignited the home.

'He did indicate that he did not want to injure his wife. He said that numerous times to our investigators,' Master Deputy State Fire Marshal Oliver Alkire told the outlet.

'He wanted to make sure he was ensuring her safety when he did this,' he added.

The chaos began shortly after 8am, when the Sheriffs Office was called to the 500 block of Sherry Drive in Carroll County for a domestic disturbance.

Authorities said that Weisgerbers wife called after he forcefully entered the home, breaking several windows in the process, according to WMAR.

Michael Weisgerber, 59, of Maryland, allegedly doused his family home with gasoline and set it on fire after a fallout with his wife, who lived in the house, police said

Weisgerber was arrested and charged with arson after admitting to authorities that he intentionally set fire to his Sykesville home on Tuesday

The blaze allegedly followed a dispute with his estranged wife, who had been living in the home while he stayed in a mobile home parked in the driveway

'During that phone call, it was indicated that he may have wanted to set the house on fire,' Alkire told the outlet.

Charging documents obtained by CBS News revealed that his wife told dispatchers that her 'husband was going crazy and was going to blow up the house'.

Deputies arrived to find a massive column of black smoke already billowing from the home, with Weisgerber standing just outside.

'I looked out my window and it was ablaze,' neighbor John Enright told CBS. 'I thought it was an accident, of course. You don't think the guy would set it on fire, but that's exactly what he did.'

Firefighters from Carroll County Fire and EMS, Gamber & Community Fire Company and several other departments responded to the home to bring the blaze under control, according to WBFF News.

At the scene, Weisgerber, who sustained minor injuries from the blast, allegedly admitted to authorities that he had purposely set the fire.

He was detained shortly after and taken to a local hospital for treatment before being transferred to the Carroll County Detention Center.

Chilling images from the incident show the homes right side completely gutted by fire reduced to its frame, while the rest of the house sustained roof damage.

Weisgerber, who was questioned by police at the scene insisted that he never intended to harm his wife when he ignited the home

Chilling images from the incident show the homes right side completely gutted by fire and reduced to its frame (pictured)

Firefighters from Carroll County Fire and EMS, Gamber & Community Fire Company and several other departments responded to the home to bring the blaze under control

Still, the blaze caused an estimated $300,000 in damage, according to CBS News.

'It comes down to mental health. Obviously, he was not in his right mind anymore, which is very sad,' neighbor Cathy Noll, Enright's fiance, told CBS.

'Not only did the woman lose her home, her daughter was down the street, hysterical,' she added.

'They lost everything. I don't think there's any rebuilding of that house. I think it's going to be totally demolished.'

Investigators reviewed surveillance footage that reportedly showed Weisgerber 'dousing' an upstairs bedroom with the fire accelerant and igniting it.

It was later confirmed that gasoline vapors caused an explosion that 'blew a rear door from its frame,' as reported by WBFF.

According to authorities, Weisgerber confessed to entering the home while his wife was outside, locked the door to make sure she wasnt inside and then set the interior ablaze with gasoline.

Court records also revealed that Weisgerbers wife had reported an earlier attempt to torch the house on November 16, which he allegedly put out before emergency crews could respond, according to CBS.

The blaze caused an estimated $300,000 in damage

Court records revealed that Weisgerbers wife had reported an earlier attempt to torch the house on November 16, which he allegedly put out before emergency crews could respond

On Wednesday in Carroll County Circuit Court, Weisgerber waived a bail review and was charged with reckless endangerment and arson

The couple had been married for roughly 30 years, according to WMAR News.

On Wednesday in Carroll County Circuit Court, Weisgerber waived a bail review and was charged with reckless endangerment and arson.

'Their life is changed forever,' Noll told CBS. 'You never, never, never know what goes on behind closed doors.'
French police are to start intercepting UK-bound small boats full of migrants in the English Channel, it emerged today.

It follows months of arguments with the UK over the danger of such operations.

An official document obtained by Le Monde has been signed by four prefects responsible for the administration of parts of the Channel and North Sea.

These include beaches around Calais and Dunkirk, from which thousands of migrants head off to England every day.

In a report released late on Thursday night, Le Monde writes: 'The maritime gendarmerie will conduct operations at sea to intercept inflatable boats intended to transport migrants to England.

'According to a document dated November 25, consulted by Le Monde, and signed by four prefects  the maritime prefect of the Channel and the North Sea, as well as the prefects of the Nord, Somme, and Pas-de-Calais departments  the operational framework for these unprecedented interventions has been established.'

The new document was at the centre of negotiations between London and Paris over the last year, when more than 39,000 migrants came across the Channel.

Most are asylum seekers from countries such as Iran, Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Eritrea and Sudan.

French police are to start intercepting UK-bound small boats full of migrants in the English Channel, following a plea by Keir Starmer to French President Emmanuel Macron. Pictured: People thought to be migrants on board a small boat in Gravelines, France, earlier this month

More than 39,000 migrants have crossed the Channel so far this year, according to the latest statistics. Pictured: Migrants brought in by Border Force to Dover, Kent, earlier this month

Your browser does not support iframes.

Le Monde quoted a leaked letter from Keir Starmer to French President Emmanuel Macron, in which the Prime Minister writes: 'It is essential that we deploy these tactics this month,' adding: 'We do not have an effective deterrent in the Channel.'

There are still extreme concerns about safety, on a route where people regularly die, either by drowning or suffocation in the flimsy boats.

The leaked document stated: 'The unprecedented nature and sensitivity of these operations necessitate adaptability and flexibility.

'The absolute and unwavering priority is safeguarding human life.'

France's Maritime Gendarmerie will start the new operations, focusing initially on ports and channels.

To begin with, so-called 'taxi boats' will be stopped. These are relatively empty vessels which slip into the Channel before smugglers load them up off beaches.

During interceptions, maritime police will have to deploy 'graduated and reversible measures covering a spectrum ranging from an order to stop, to immobilising the boats, diverting them, and handing the individuals over to the authorities'.

According to earlier revelations, nets will be used to try and immobilise water taxi propellers.

Your browser does not support iframes.

Britain pays the French almost 500million to prevent thousands of foreigners reaching British shores, and has regularly claimed it is not getting its money's worth.

The last Interior Minister, Bruno Retailleau, approved a plan to allow sea interventions in certain circumstances, including shallow water, but these appeared to have been put on ice.

Mr Retailleau wanted a new French 'maritime intervention force' that escorts migrant small boats away from England.

The radical plan will see fast patrol craft surrounding dinghies packed with passengers who have paid people smugglers thousands to reach the UK.

But French police unions have claimed that turning their members into 'sea police' would be 'extremely dangerous'.

A senior source at Alliance  the largest police union in the country  said: 'People don't seem to realise how dangerous it is to try and carry out arrests at sea, while trying to force a boat to change course.

'If there are 80 people on an overcrowded boat, including women and children, then it is extremely dangerous to try and stop them.'

The French Navy has also objected to intervening at sea, with one senior officer saying: 'Disaster, including drownings, can easily happen.'
A transatlantic flight had to be aborted after a man went on a 'drug-fuelled' rampage and began attacking fellow passengers.

The World2Fly flight took off from Katowice, Poland just after 10am - following a two-hour delay - on Thursday, bound for the Dominican Republic.

But the pilot diverted five hours into the flight to the Azores after trouble broke out mid-flight.

The plane was forced to make an emergency landing at Terceira Lajes Airport, where the aggressive passenger was detained by police, Polish newspaper Fakt reported.

Initial reports suggested that the man was 'under the influence of intoxicants, most likely psychoactive substances.'

He is said to have become 'agitated and aggressive' and was directing attacks at other passengers.

Following the incident, the plane took off again from Terceira island at around 5pm.

The plane went on to reach its destination in Puerto Plata, a city in the north-west of the Dominican Republic.

A transatlantic World2Fly flight had to be aborted after a man went on a 'drug-fuelled' rampage and began attacking fellow passengers

Flight tracking information shows the plane diverting to Terceira Lajes Airport in the Azores around five hours after take-off

World2Fly's troubles follow other recent flight diversions caused by passengers.

On November 9, a JetBlue plane departing from Boston Logan International Airport heading to Tampa International Airport made an emergency landing after a passenger was apparently found smoking inside the toilet.

The Airbus A321 was en route with 200 passengers, Simple Flying reports, when someone reported the smell of marijuana.

Instagram account @you_can_see_atc posted footage revealing the moment a pilot contacted Air Traffic Control about the issue, at 34,000 feet in the air.

In the audio, he said: 'For JetBlue 1191, we had a security issue on board with a passenger, mostly a disturbance.'

The pilot went on to explain how the smoke was noticed by flight attendants.

He said: 'They were smoking marijuana. Our crew inhaled it. And now we're overweight landing [when an aircraft lands with a gross weight exceeding its maximum design landing weight]. So that's the main reason for the emergency.'

The plane turned around and returned to Boston Airport.

In another incident from September, a Ryanair flight was diverted after a passenger reportedly 'ate his passport' and another attempted to flush his down the toilet.

Around 15 to 20 minutes into the journey from Milan to London Stansted, two men began to behave 'strange', an anonymous source told the Daily Star.

Shortly after the seatbelt signed was switched off, one of the men, who was seated at the front of the plane, reportedly ripped pages out of his passport and ate them, causing passengers to 'freak out'.

Meanwhile, another man attempted to 'flush his passport down the toilet'.

The flight was diverted to Paris, where the two men were arrested before the flight continued on to London.
Good Morning Britain presenter Susanna Reid snapped at co-host Ed Balls in a fiery argument not seen by viewers, it has been claimed.

Tensions are said to have flared off-screen amid this morning's broadcast, as they continued their coverage of this week's Budget.

Reports have suggested Ms Reid, 54, told off 58-year-old ex-Labour minister Mr Balls during an advert over his plans for how he would conduct the next segment.

The pair had yesterday grilled Chancellor Rachel Reeves over her Budget plans.

A source was quoted as saying: 'They usually have a great relationship, but its clear Susanna wears the trousers.

'Shes an incredibly experienced and competent journalist and presenter who has been covering the budget for decades.

'Seeing as Ed is a former Shadow Chancellor, Budget week is like Christmas to him.

'He loves feeling like hes still at the heart of government and balancing the books, but forgot hes in Susannas territory now and she rules the roost.'

Susanna Reid (left) had Rachel Reeves (right) looking flustered on Thursday after grilling her about whether she broke Labour's manifesto commitments in the Budget

They told the Sun: 'Ed got carried away and was soon put in his place by Susanna who helped keep them on track during a very busy news week.'

It comes after Ms Reid left Chancellor Rachel Reeves looking flustered on Thursday when grilling her about whether she had broken Labour's manifesto commitments.

The Good Morning Britain presenter piled pressure on the Chancellor during an awkward encounter as she appeared on the ITV breakfast show a day after unveiling a 30billion assault on British workers.

Ms Reeves unveiled a series of smaller money grabbing tax increases in a desperate bid to balance the books, having abandoned plans for a manifesto-busting income tax rise earlier this month.

These include a new pay-per-mile tax for electric vehicles, increased taxes on online betting and a so-called 'mansion tax' on homes worth more than 2million.

But she continued to face accusations of breaching Labour's election promise not to raise taxes on 'working people' after introducing a 13billion freeze on income tax for three years.

During a heated exchange with Ms Reid, the Labour MP repeatedly denied breaching the manifesto pledge and insisted the document only committed to not changing tax 'rates'.

But the presenter refused to let the floundering Chancellor off the hook, asking her: 'How can anyone believe anything you say?'

Former Labour Shadow Chancellor Ed Balls and Susanna Reid are regular GMB co-hosts

'I am Chancellor in the world as it is and not in the world as I might like it to be,' Ms Reeves replied, before repeating the ways in which the Government was easing costs on taxpayers.

Ms Reid and Mr Balls have had heated debates on air in the past, including one about fly tipping earlier this year - prompting complaints from viewers that they were talking over each other.

She said at the time, 'My thing, bins on streets', prompting Mr Balls to interrupt and say: 'She wants a personal bin outside her house.'

She then added: 'No, I have a personal bin like every resident does.'

Mr Balls snapped back: 'And a public police officer to make sure that anybody that puts things in your bin kind of gets convicted.'

Ms Reid then replied: 'No, obviously not a police officer. I don't know about where you live, but where we live, the council provides a bin obviously for me and my house, outside.'

She added: 'When you come out of schools for instance and you've got lots of children and they've been to the shop and they've got loads of rubbish, where do they put the rubbish?

'I don't mind if they put it in my bin obviously, but my bin isn't outside every single school.

Your browser does not support iframes.

Your browser does not support iframes.

'The kids could take the rubbish home with them unless they're going to the common, I don't understand why we took away the bins.'

GMB faced a backlash last year after Mr Balls interviewed his wife Yvette Cooper on the show - with complaints about what was dubbed a 'huge conflict of interest'.

The then-Home Secretary Ms Cooper, now Foreign Secretary, was on the breakfast programme to discuss whether the police's response to the nationwide riots had been sufficient.

Mr Balls has become a regular GMB host after losing his parliamentary seat in 2015 and pursuing a media career - including being a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing the following year.

He and Ms Cooper, who became Home Secretary after Labour won the general election in July 2024, have been married since 1998.

Ofcom later announced they had 'carefully' considered the issue and would not pursue any further action over the interview.

ITV sources have denied there were any tensions between the presenting pair today and insisted they had worked together 'perfectly well' on Budget coverage.
Two Romanian teenagers accused of attempting to rape a schoolgirl in Ballymena are to have the charges withdrawn, a judge ordered today.

The boys, aged 14 and 15, have been held in custody since the alleged sexual assault which led to sustained racially-motivated rioting in the Country Antrim town during the summer.

But at Belfast Youth Court today, the Public Prosecution Service (PPS) was granted permission to end criminal proceedings against the defendants based on 'significant evidential developments'.

Both teenagers will now be released from the juvenile detention centre where they have been held for more than five months.

The pair were jointly charged with the attempted rape of the girl on June 7 this year.

A third youth suspected of involvement in the alleged attack is believed to have fled to Romania the following day.

None of the accused can be identified because of their ages.

Fire burns near a demonstrator during rioting in Ballymena, Northern Ireland, in June

Smoke billows as demonstrators gather in front of riot police vehicles in Ballymena in June

Officers from the PSNI form a barricade with riot shields during disorder in Ballymena in June

Previous courts heard claims that the girl had been dragged down an alleyway into a garage in the Clonavon Terrace area of Ballymena.

She managed to escape when the three teenagers were disturbed by a noise outside and ran off, it was contended at the time.

Racial violence erupted in the town following the alleged incident before spreading to other parts of Northern Ireland.

However, in an unexpected development, a formal application was made to halt the case against the two defendants.

A lawyer for the PPS told the court it has a duty to keep prosecution decisions under consideration and take into account any change in circumstances.

'Where new information or evidence becomes available, it will be considered along with all existing information and evidence in the case and the test for prosecution applied,' she said.

'We have recently been made aware of significant evidential developments in this case, and in light of this new evidence it has been determined that the test for prosecution is no longer met on evidential grounds.

Police in Portadown in County Armagh in June, following three nights of disorder in Ballymena

A member of the crowd walks towards the PSNI riot squad officers in Ballymena in June

Properties in the Country Antrim town of Ballymena with signs saying 'locals live here' in June

'Therefore the case should not proceed.'

Representatives from the prosecution and police investigation teams have met with the complainant and her family to explain the reasons for the decision, the court was told.

The two teenage accused, represented by barristers Conn O'Neill and Victoria Loane under the instructions of O'Neill Solicitors, did not appear during the brief hearing.

However, Mr O'Neill raised no objection to the application.

'The sooner this can be relayed to Woodlands (Juvenile Justice Centre) the sooner these two youths can be released,' counsel said.

'They have been detained since the outset.'

Granting the order sought by the PPS, District Judge George Conner said: 'I'm aware this is a very sensitive case, but the matters are now marked withdrawn.

'The less I say about it the better.'
Plans to move migrants into army barracks have been delayed amid safety concerns after hundreds of furious locals marched against the move.

Ministers initially promised Crowborough Camp in East Sussex and Cameron Barracks in Inverness would start housing hundreds of asylum seekers by December 1.

The military barracks are going to be used to house the migrants as part of the Government's bid to reduce the use of asylum hotels.

But the scheme has been postponed because basic requirements have still not been put in place.

The Home Office have been working with stakeholders to understand the viability of moving asylum seekers into Cameron Barracks and Crowborough, a source said.

It comes after hundreds of East Sussex locals protested against government plans to move migrants into the camp, which can house up to 540 people, last weekend.

Demonstrators draped in English flags held placards as they marked a third consecutive week of protesting.

Six hundred marchers wore numbered bibs to highlight the number of asylum seekers who were expected to be housed at the site next week.

Plans to move migrants into army barracks have been delayed amid safety concerns after hundreds of furious locals marched against the move

On Sunday hundreds of protesters took to the streets of Crowborough to protest against the military barracks being used to house migrants

UKIP Leader Nick Tenconi joined the protesters today wearing numbers to signify the amount of asylum seekers expected at Crowborough Army Camp

Locals have described Labour's plans to 'dump' the asylum seekers in the camp on the edge of the small Sussex town as 'underhand'.

A Home Office spokesperson said: 'We are furious at the level of illegal migrants and asylum hotels.

'Moving to large military sites is an important part of our reforms to tackle illegal migration and the pull factors that make the UK an attractive destination.

'We are continuing to accelerate plans to move people into Crowborough and Cameron Barracks, when the sites are fully operational and safe.

'We will not replicate the mistakes of the past where rushed plans have led to unsafe and chaotic situations that impacts the local community.'

A sign during an anti-immigration protest near Crowborough Training Camp in East Sussex

A general view of Crowborough Training Camp, East Sussex - soon to home migrants

Crowborough has a population of around 22,000 and locals believe their way of life could be threatened by the asylum seekers

People attend a protest against asylum seekers being housed at an army training camp

Crowds on the village green started to dwindle when UKIP leader Nick Tenconi started speaking

Organisers estimated up to 3000 people braved near torrential rain

Two marches started in Crowborough in pouring rain before converging in the town centre and heading to a rally on November 23, 2025

Adult cadet instructors are now considering suspending all training once the migrants are moved in, warning that they cannot guarantee the safeguarding of youngsters on site.

Senior instructors have voiced deep concern about mixing the youth detachments with an influx of adult males and say the risks remain unresolved.

In recent days, large fences have also been erected around the perimeter, and security guards with dogs have been seen patrolling the area as preparations continue for the arrival of more than 500 asylum seekers.

Parents and cadet volunteers  none of whom have official training  have reportedly taken it upon themselves to carry out 'counter patrols' near pick-up and drop-off times to monitor any potential risks.

Crowborough Shield, a residents' group opposing the plans, warned that cadets 'will be displaced, with no alternative location offered.'

Crowborough has a population of around 22,000 and locals believe their way of life could be threatened by the asylum seekers.

Organisers handed out 600 numbered cards to marchers, with Penny Saunders, 58, an office administrator, carrying the number 600.

'I'm Crowborough born and bred. I haven't marched before, but I'm in total agreement with it. It will make a huge difference to our community,' she said.

'I've seen catastrophic changes already. Our local services can't cope as it is. I've seen crime rise, and it'll only get worse.

Chair of the Crowborough Shield campaign group Kim Bailey said: 'We have never wanted this to become a political campaign. This is still all about Crowborough'

Police said they are investigating reports of windows being smashed at the army camp

'This is about community and the fact these men will be undocumented. It is about safety. The reason people want to live here is about the community and safety. It is not about racism,' Penny said.

Adam, who declined to give his surname, carried number one.

The 43-year-old company director from Crowborough said: 'I wanted to make a stand against what is being imposed on our community.

'I want to protect my mum, my wife and daughter. We will be here until we don't have to come any more.'

Councillor Andrew Wilson, who represents Crowborough South East Ward, said Sunday's protest was 'a fantastic sight to see' from a community 'kept in the dark' about Home Office plans.

He said: 'It's been a fantastic community response to a Home Office plan that is completely inappropriate.

'If you look across the country at other places where asylum seekers have been housed, such as asylum hotels in Epping, there have been issues.

'There's not a lot to do in Crowborough - we're a very small town... This is introducing a level of risk which I'm not sure the Home Office has appreciated.'

Cllr Wilson, who has lived in the town for 11 years, added he is concerned Crowborough lacks the police presence he believes will be needed if asylum seekers are housed at the base.

As of July 2025, the Home Office was spending around 5.77million a day on asylum hotels, down by 8.3million from the previous year.

But fresh figures revealed asylum seekers living in hotels at taxpayers' expense had jumped to more than 36,000, the highest level for nearly two years.

New Home Office data showed 36,273 migrants were in hotel accommodation at the end of September, up 4,232 from 32,041 at the end of June.

There were 111,651 in all receiving taxpayer-funded asylum support, an increase of nearly 5,600 in three months but below the peak of just under 124,000 hit in September 2023.

The Home Office said a record 110,051 people claimed asylum in the UK in the year ending to September.

That was up 13 per cent on the previous year and 7 per cent more than the previous peak of 103,081 in 2002.

This made it a new record high after a previous figure of 111,000 for the year to June was revised down slightly.

Separate data from the Office for National Statistics showed a significant fall in net migration - the total number of migrants arriving to live long-term in the Uk minus those emigrating.

In the year to June net migration was 204,000, two-thirds lower than a year earlier when it stood at 649,000.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has said he is 'determined to close all of our asylum hotels.'
Donald Trump is said to be preparing to recognise Russian control over Crimea and other occupied Ukrainian territories in a bid to secure a deal with Vladimir Putin to end the war.

According to The Telegraph, officials close to the talks say the US president has dispatched his peace envoy, Steve Witkoff, along with his son-in-law, Jared Kushner, to set out the proposal to Putin in Moscow.

The move would mark the most dramatic shift in US policy toward the conflict since Russia seized Crimea in 2014, and risks a major split with European governments that have repeatedly rejected any peace plans involving territorial concessions.

One official briefed on Witkoff and Kushner's approach told the publication: 'It's increasingly clear the Americans don't care about the European position. They say the Europeans can do whatever they want.'

Yesterday, Russia's leader signalled that recognition of the Kremlin's territorial claims would be a key demand in any negotiations over Trump's peace initiative.

He said Washington's acceptance of Russia's sovereignty over Crimea, as well as the Donetsk and Luhansk regions, would form part of the core issues in talks.

On Friday, the Kremlin confirmed it had received an amended US proposal following urgent discussions between Ukrainian and American officials in Geneva last weekend.

That meeting came after Witkoff presented a 28-point draft to Russian officials offering 'de facto' recognition of Russia's control of Crimea and both occupied Donbas regions.

Donald is said to be preparing to officially recognise Russian control over Crimea and other territory it claims in Ukraine

Jared Kushner, left, and Steve Witkoff, at the White House in September. The pair are said to be travelling to Moscow to present Putin with the plan

Firefighters put out a blaze after a Russian drone struck a residential building on November 25. Trump's move is said to be aimed at ending the war in Ukraine, which has been raging since 2022

His outline also suggested total recognition of Russian-held territory behind the current line of contact in Kherson and Zaporizhzhia after a ceasefire.

US and Ukrainian officials subsequently reworked the document into a shorter 19-point plan, described by Kyiv as less favourable to Moscow.

But people familiar with the exchange are said to have insisted that the question of US recognition has remained inside the American framework.

Ukraine continues to insist that it cannot legally hand over any part of its territory. Under the Ukrainian constitution, no president is permitted to cede land without a nationwide referendum.

In an interview with The Atlantic, Andriy Yermak, President Zelensky's chief of staff, who helped negotiate the updated proposal, reiterated that position: 'Not a single sane person today would sign a document to give up territory.

'As long as Zelensky is president, no one should count on us giving up territory. He will not sign away territory. The constitution prohibits this. Nobody can do that unless they want to go against the Ukrainian constitution and the Ukrainian people.'

Yermak and Ukraine's national security adviser Rustem Umerov are expected to travel to Florida for further talks at Trump's Mar-a-Lago base in the coming days.

The latest American deal reportedly leaves the most sensitive sections, particularly territorial outcomes, blank, to be resolved only in a face-to-face meeting between Zelensky and Trump if that occurs.

A US offer to legitimise Russian territorial gains would place Washington at odds with European governments that have maintained a united diplomatic stance since 2014.

After a meeting of the coalition supporting Ukraine this week, its members said: 'They were clear on the principle that borders must not be changed by force.

'This remains one of the fundamental principles for preserving stability and peace in Europe and beyond.'

Vladimir Putin has insisted that territorial concessions would be key to any proposal to end the war

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky has rejected demands to give up Ukrainian territories

A resident walks in front of a burning building set on fire by Russian drone strikes. European governments have insisted that territory concessions must not form the basis of any peace plan

Your browser does not support iframes.

A European counter-proposal presented to the Americans is said to remove any reference to recognising Russian control and instead states: 'Territorial issues will be discussed and resolved after a full and unconditional ceasefire.'

The European Union, the United Kingdom, the United States and most of the international community have refused since 2014 to recognise Russia's annexation of Crimea, and they rejected its 2022 claims to the regions of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia.

Formal US recognition of Russian sovereignty over occupied territory would break with decades of American diplomatic doctrine.

Washington refused to recognise the Soviet annexation of the Baltic states during the Cold War, and that stance has often served as a reference point during the current conflict.

Any shift would also risk undermining the Western sanctions architecture created after the invasion, most of which is tied to Russias illegal annexations.

Analysts have also raised concerns that it could also complicate Ukraines long-term security agreements with European governments, which assume existing borders.

Moscows insistence on retaining all territory it claims, including areas where fighting is ongoing, suggests the Kremlin is not prepared to make territorial concessions to secure peace.

European concern has intensified further after leaked recordings revealed Witkoff coaching Russian officials on appealing to the Trump administration.

In those calls, he referred to Ukraine needing to give up Donetsk, prompting questions about whether US envoys had already signalled willingness to support Russian demands.

Ukrainian officials say they still expect the most difficult issues, including the status of Crimea and the east, to remain unresolved until Trump and Zelensky speak directly. Zelensky has not yet confirmed whether he will travel to the US.
Prosecutors have upgraded the charges against the man accused of shooting two National Guard troops in Washington DC after one of the victims passed away.

Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, will now face charges of first-degree murder after allegedly opening fire on soldiers Andrew Wolfe, 24, and Sarah Beckstrom, 20, on Wednesday near the White House.

On Friday, President Trump announced that Beckstrom had tragically died from her injuries. Wolfe remains in critical condition.

Beckstrom's death led DC US Attorney Jeanine Pirro to upgrade his charges from three counts of assault with intent to kill while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, to first-degree murder.

Speaking on Fox and Friends, Pirro said the investigation into Lakanwal would continue '24/7', and she said her office is exploring bringing further charges.

'We will find out what actually happened, in terms of this individual even being in this country, and being in a position to ambush and shoot down an innocent young woman who was doing her duty to the people of this country,' Pirro added.

The upgraded charges against Lakanwal come as Trump revealed that he is considering deporting the family of the terror suspect, including at least five children.

Trump said his team are 'looking at that right now' when asked about the fate of Lakanwal's family, describing the fallout as a 'tragic situation.'

Prosecutors have upgraded the charges against Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, the suspect accused of shooting two National Guard troops in Washington DC, after one of the victims passed away

West Virginia National Guard troop Sarah Beckstrom, 20, passed away days after being shot in the head in the horror attack in Washington DC

Officials said at a Thursday press conference that Lakanwal drove across the country from his home in Bellingham, Washington to DC before he fired at the troops on Wednesday afternoon with a .357 revolver.

Lakanwal was brought to the United States in 2021 as part of former president Joe Biden's Operation Allies Welcome when he withdrew from Afghanistan, which facilitated temporary visas for Afghans who assisted US Special Forces.

The shooting sparked scrutiny on how the terror suspect was allowed to be brought to the US, and Trump has sought to quickly cast blame on the Biden administration.

Trump said Friday that his White House would 'permanently pause' all migration from third-world countries as a result.

Late on Wednesday night, CIA Director John Ratcliffe told Fox News Lakanwal had direct links to the CIA from his work alongside US Special Forces in Afghanistan.

'The Biden administration justified bringing the alleged shooter to the United States in September 2021 due to his prior work with the U.S. government, including CIA,' Ratcliffe admitted.

He said his involvement with the CIA was 'as a member of a partner force in Kandahar, which ended shortly following the chaotic evacuation.'

Like President Trump, Ratcliffe slammed the former administration's 'disastrous' actions during the withdrawal of Afghanistan, which allowed unvetted foreigners to enter the US on temporary visas.

'The individual - and so many others - should have never been allowed to come here,' Ratcliffe said.

'Our citizens and service members deserve far better than to endure the ongoing fallout from the Biden administration's catastrophic failures.'

Andrew Wolfe, 24, was also shot in the attack, and he remains in critical condition

Officials said Lakanwal drove across the country from his home in Bellingham, Washington, to DC before he fired at the troops on Wednesday afternoon with a .357 revolver

As Trump announced that his administration would 'permanently pause' all migration'from third world countries, he said officials would also order a green card audit of 19 nations in response to the shooting.

In a Truth Social post, Trump blasted former president Joe Biden for letting unvetted migrants stream into America - claiming he allowed the Afghan shooting suspect into the US during the disastrous 2021 withdrawal.

'I will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the US system to fully recover,' he wrote on social media.

Trump also vowed to end all federal benefits for noncitizens, denaturalize migrants who undermine the US, and deport any foreign nationals deemed a security risk or 'non-compatible with Western Civilization'.

'Only REVERSE MIGRATION can fully cure this situation,' he wrote in the Truth Social post.

'Other than that, HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL, except those that hate, steal, murder, and destroy everything that America stands for - You wont be here for long!'

The countries that will face a re-examination are: Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen, Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela.
Sitting cross-legged on the pavement with his head in his hands, Ernestas Juska appeared chillingly calm as he told police, Ive just killed someone.

Just moments earlier, the 21-year-old had savagely murdered an innocent sleeping woman at his mothers home before strolling to a bus stop and quietly asking a member of the public to call police.

Now after Juska was jailed for life today it can be revealed how the loner murdered Nina Denisova, 39, after becoming consumed by fantasies of having sex with dead bodies due to a fixation with extreme pornography.

The jobless Lithuanian was high on drink and cocaine when he decided he wanted to kill someone after spending the evening socialising with his mother and family friends including Ms Denisova at his mothers home in Dartford, Kent.

The loner roamed the house looking for a weapon around 6am, taking the biggest kitchen knife he could find before pouncing on the unsuspecting victim stabbing her in the neck as she slept in a spare bedroom.

In an act of unspeakable depravity, as Ms Denisova struggled, Juska put his hands over her mouth, he then stabbed her through both eyes, in the stomach and chest.

As she lay dying, Juska clambered onto the bed to have sex with her corpse, later telling police he wanted to see what it felt like to f*** her, admitting he wasn't proud of it.

Following the murder on August 17, 2024, Juska left the property and walked to a nearby bus stop, where he calmly asked a member of the public to call police, admitting he had just killed someone.

Ernestas Juska in custody after the murder

In police bodycam footage, Juska is seen sitting cross-legged on the pavement as an officer approaches him, asking: 'What's going on, lad?'.

'I killed someone. A friend of my mum's he casually replied.

Following his arrest, Juska, who had been rebuffed by the victim years earlier at the age of 16, told police he didn't feel anything.

He told police he had decided to lash out and kill someone, but claimed he did not know why, saying he felt excitement in the moments leading up to the murder.

Police bodycam footage showed the killer displaying no emotion, simply nodding as he was told in custody that the victim had died.

Jailing him for 24 years and seven months today, Mr Justice Dexter Dias, KC, said: I have no doubt that the last moments of Nina Denisova's life were lived in extreme, unexpected and undeserved horror.

The suffering she experienced as she died for no reason except that you, Ernestas Juska, developed a preoccupation with killing a human being, including an entirely innocent one, is unimaginable.

The moment Juska was arrested

But you were not finished, and you insisted on making your lurid fantasising about having sexual intercourse come true, even when your brutal violence had turned the living breathing human being you attacked in the most cowardly way as she slept into a corpse.

Maidstone Crown Court heard that medical experts found Juska's consumption of violent pornography had an extreme impact on him.

Describing him as a deeply disturbed individual responsible for an extreme explosion of sexual and sadistic conduct, the judge said it cannot be a coincidence that the defendant wanted to have sex with a corpse after consuming pornography focusing on dead bodies, rape and bestiality.

He decided he wanted to kill someone, he thought through his options, he did not want to kill his mother or sister and he knew Ms Denisova was in the house and asleep, the judge said.

He had a chance to stop; instead, he intensified his attack, he chose a particularly cruel and sadistic method of doing so.

The judge told the defendant: This was a murder involving acts of almost unimaginable depravity.

I have no doubt that the risk you, Ernestas Juska, currently present to the public is grave.

Ms Denisovas brother described the victim as a very calm and positive person who had arrived in the UK from Lithuania in 2006.

We can never forgive him for what he's done and we will never be able to understand why he did what he did that sad day, he said.

Beth O'Reilly KC, defending, said Juskas shame is palpable.

In the dock, Juska's eyes were downcast throughout the entire hearing.

He admitted murder and committing a sexual offence against a deceased female at an earlier hearing.

Detective Sergeant Max Gregory said: Juska was responsible for an act of shocking and senseless brutality, seemingly without reason or any hint of remorse.

He targeted a helpless victim as she slept and inflicted multiple injuries during a sustained and savage attack. The fact that he went on to commit further appalling acts after her death shows a level of depravity which defies belief.

Juska's actions have devastated a family and taken away a much-loved daughter and sister. We are only relieved that he has now been jailed for life and can no longer pose a threat to anyone.
Donald Trump in a rage-filled late-night message on Thanksgiving called Tim Walz a retard and accused Ilhan Omar of incest with her brother as part of offering a chilling cure to deal with illegal immigrants.

The president vowed to end all immigration from third world countries in a late night post on Truth Social following the shooting of two National Guard soldiers in DC just yards from the White House earlier this week. Guard member Sarah Beckstrom passed away on Thanksgiving as a result of the attack.

Trump went on to claim that Walz, who serves as the governor of Minnesota and was Kamala Harris' running mate, has allowed hundreds of thousands of Somalian migrants to prey on innocent people in his state.

Somalian gangs are roving the streets looking for prey as our wonderful people stay locked in their apartments and houses hoping against hope that they will be left alone, he wrote in a Truth Social post.

The seriously retarded Governor of Minnesota, Tim Walz, does nothing, either through fear, incompetence, or both.

Trump then turned his attention to Omar, a House lawmaker from Minnesota, by mocking her swaddling hijab and claiming she illegally entered the country by marrying her brother.

Probably came into the USA. illegally in that you are not allowed to marry your brother, does nothing but hatefully complain about our Country, its Constitution, and how badly she is treated.

The president ended his rant by vowing to cure the issue of migration with reverse migration, claiming disruptive populations were admitted into the US via Joe Bidens illegal autopen approval.

Trump issued a chilling final warning to illegal immigrants following the deadly DC shooting

The president accused Illhan Omar of illegally immigrating to the US by marrying her brother

Trump referred to Tim Walz as a 'retard' during his Truth Social rant

Only REVERSE MIGRATION can fully cure this situation. Other than that, HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL, except those that hate, steal, murder, and destroy everything that America stands for.

Walz responded to Trumps insults by questioning the state of the presidents health.

Release the MRI results, Walz wrote on X. During a recent health check-up, Trump had an MRI scan, the results of which remain undisclosed.

Trumps rant occurred hours after he announced that Beckstrom had tragically succumbed to her injuries on Thursday.

Afghan migrant Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, was named as the alleged gunman in custody over the shooting.

Lakanwal was admitted into the country under the Biden administration in 2021 following the Talibans takeover of Afghanistan. He had previously worked with the CIA to combat the jihadists during the war.

The other injured National Guard soldier Andrew Wolfe remains in critical condition and is fighting for his life.

Trump earlier demanded every green card issued to immigrants from 19 'countries of concern' face an urgent reexamination.

Sarah Beckham tragically died on Thursday following a shooting in Washington DC

Trump wrote his late-night message attacking Walz and Omar on Truth Social

The countries are: Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen, Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela.

Trump also vowed to end all federal benefits for noncitizens, denaturalize migrants who undermine the US, and deport any foreign nationals deemed a security risk or 'non-compatible with Western Civilization.
France was stunned after thieves took off with some of the countrys finest historic jewellery from the Louvre museum last month.

And its now been left shell-shocked by an even more slippery case - the disappearance of almost 80,000 worth of luxury snails.

Jean-Mathieu Dauvergne said he is facing a 'tough blow' after 450kg of fresh and frozen snails were taken from his farm in Bouzy, in the eastern Champagne region.

He had been due to supply some of Frances most prestigious restaurants over the Christmas period, including the Michelin-starred Domaine les Crayeres in Reims.

Mr Dauvergne, who owns LEscargot des Grands Crus farm, said he had lost his entire years work in the theft on Sunday night.

Almost 80,000 worth of luxury snails were stolen from LEscargot des Grands Crus farm

They cut the wire fence, broke open the door with a pickaxe, smashed the motion sensor lighting and then helped themselves. Its incredible to have stolen so much. It must be for a very well organised network, he told the newspaper Le Parisien.

He said there were enough snails for 10,000 meals, estimating that he lost 90,000 (78,000). It is a blow to the sector, because while the French consume up to 14,300 tons of snails each year, about 95 per cent are imported - mainly from Belgium, Turkey, Hungary, Romania, Greece and Indonesia.

Commander Remi Dubois, a police officer based in Epernay, told The Times that Mr Dauvergnes snails were worth almost as much as Champagne. He said the criminals appeared to be experienced and professional.

The last escargot heist was in December 2024, when thieves in Haute-Savoie stole nearly 2,500 cooked snails. Mr Dauvergne, who has now installed cameras at his farm, said: It's a fairly rare phenomenon as there are only 300 producers in France. But in times of crisis, it risks becoming more and more frequent.

He is now scrambling to supply restaurants in time for Christmas by purchasing snails from other farmers. But because his own produce is so highly sought after, not all chefs are pleased.

Cesar Petelot, the owner of La Table du 18 restaurant, usually serves the snails in puff pastry with parsley cream and confit garlic. But he told television station TF1 that he would remove the dish from the menu if the snails did not come from LEscargot des Grands Crus.
A grandfather who allegedly attempted to drown his daughter-in-law during a fiery dispute over his will while vacationing in Florida will face no prison time.

Mark R. Gibbon, 62, visiting from the UK, was arrested in August after allegedly holding his 33-year-old daughter-in-law Jasmine Wyld underwater during a fight over the 'stipulations of his will,' according to an arrest affidavit obtained by Law & Crime.

The violent struggle, during which Wyld declared she 'could not breathe and was going to drown,' ended only after his granddaughter and neighbors called 911.

According to investigators, Gibbon said the confrontation erupted when a drinking-fueled discussion about the will led to Wyld slapping him, though he insisted he never intended to drown her.

Gibbon was taken into custody at the scene and booked into Polk County Jail without bond on second-degree murder and battery charges, including one count of battery by strangulation.

A month after his arrest, Gibbon reportedly paid $25,000 and $1,000 to gain temporary release during proceedings, documents obtained by Sky News revealed.

But earlier this month, Judge Michelle Pincket released Gibbon on time served after he pleaded guilty to battery and a lesser charge, with the second-degree murder and strangulation charge dropped in the plea agreement.

The State Attorney's Office reported that Wyld requested Gibbon's release and return to the UK, believing he had been 'punished enough' for the ordeal, according to Sky News.

Mark R. Gibbon (right), 62, who allegedly attempted to drown his 33-year-old daughter-in-law Jasmine Wyld (left) during a fight over his will while in Florida will face no prison time

Gibbon, visiting from the UK, was arrested in August at the Solterra Resort (pictured) after he allegedly tried to hold Wyld's head underwater in the pool to prevent her from breathing during an argument over his grandchildren

Earlier this month, Judge Michelle Pincket released Gibbon (pictured) on time served after he pleaded guilty to battery and a lesser charge, with the second-degree murder and strangulation charge dropped in the plea agreement

'The victim informed our office that she felt the defendant had been punished enough and she desired that he be allowed to return to England and have contact with her and her daughter,' the office told the outlet.

'She had no fear of him,' they added. 'The defendant completed an anger management course and was adjudicated guilty of battery.'

Gibbon was instead ordered to pay $1,308.68 in fines and fees, ultimately avoiding any time behind bars.

The brutal incident unfolded on August 3, when Gibbon, visiting from his home in Beaconsfield, England, was vacationing with family in Davenport - just a short distance from Walt Disney World and its other theme parks.

Authorities rushed to the Solterra Resort on Pine Tree Trail just before 5:20pm after reports of a disturbance in the rental property's backyard pool, according to the Polk County Sheriff's Office.

Both Wyld and other witnesses reported that an argument in the pool about his grandchildren escalated, with Gibbon allegedly trying to hold his daughter-in-law underwater to prevent her from breathing.

He allegedly 'pushed her under the water and held her down multiple times,' according to the complaint obtained by Law & Crime.

As Wyld struggled to break free and keep her head above the water, Gibbon allegedly continued to force her back under.

The State Attorney's Office reported that Wyld (pictured) requested Gibbon's release and return to the UK, believing he had been 'punished enough' for the ordeal

Wyld's (left) nine-year-old daughter witnessed the terrifying scene and immediately 'jumped into the pool' to protect her mother from her grandfather's (right) attack

'She advised that she could not breathe and believed that she was going to drown,' investigators wrote in the charging documents, according to the outlet.

'The victim advised that she had to fight Mark in order to get away from him and under the water,' they added.

Wyld's nine-year-old daughter witnessed the terrifying scene and immediately 'jumped into the pool' to protect her mother from her grandfather's attack, police said.

Authorities said that despite her courageous attempt to defend her mother, Gibbon allegedly shoved his young granddaughter aside and carried on.

It was at that point that Wyld noticed neighbors nearby and screamed for them to call 911.

Gibbon allegedly stopped only after hearing two sisters from Ohio, who were vacationing right next door, alert the sheriff's office.

Thankfully Wyld survived the incident, though she reportedly sustained several scratches across her chest amid the chaos.

After being arrested and read his Miranda rights, Gibbon allegedly confessed to repeatedly pushing his daughter-in-law's head underwater, though he claimed the goal was never to drown her.

Gibbon (pictured) allegedly stopped only after hearing two sisters from Ohio, who were vacationing right next door, alert the sheriff's office

According to investigators, Gibbon (right) said the confrontation erupted when a drinking-fueled discussion about the will led to Wyld (left) slapping him, though he insisted he never intended to drown her

Thankfully Wyld (pictured) survived the incident, though she reportedly sustained several scratches across her chest amid the chaos

'It's great that Polk County draws visitors from all across the world, but we expect vacationer's to behave while they visit with us, just as we expect our lifelong residents to do the same,' Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd said after his arrest.

'Because Mr. Gibbon couldn't control his anger, he may find himself spending a lot more time in Florida than he had anticipated,' he added.

However, the court finalized a deal on November 7, ordering Gibbons passport returned so he could travel back to the United Kingdom.

Two years prior, Gibbons son and Wyld's former partner was sentenced to jail for running over his own father.

Alex Gibbon, 34, was understood to have hit Mark Gibbon with a $97,000 Porsche following a heated argument over the family business in May 2023.

In August, the Daily Mail revealed that Gibbon was in a romantic relationship with his Wyld, his son's ex partner.

A family source revealed that Alex and his father no longer speak, and last year, Alex was jailed for trying to drive a car straight into his estranged father.

According to the source, 'Mark and Jasmine have been seeing each other for a few years, but they've never admitted it.'

Two years prior, Gibbons son and Wyld's (right) former partner Alex Gibbon (left) was jailed allegedly hitting his father with a $97,000 Porsche following a heated argument over the family business in May 2023

In August, the Daily Mail revealed that Gibbon was in a romantic relationship with his Wyld, his son's ex partner (both pictured)

'Alex and his dad don't speak at all,' they added. 'There have been a number of issues within the family.'

'He feels an awful betrayal at how his dad has struck up a relationship with the mother of his two children.'

Gibbon's son reportedly struck him as he stood in front of the car while Alex attempted to drive away in Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire.

In February 2024, Alex pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by dangerous driving and harassment without violence. He was sentenced to two years in prison, given a three-year driving ban, and placed under a five-year restraining order.
A delivery driver who killed a seven-year-old girl when he performed a dangerous overtake in a hidden dip was today jailed for six years.

Veselin Dudenski, 39, was delivering parcels when his van smashed head-on into a car carrying Elsie Gascoigne and her father, Jamie, in Nocton, Lincolnshire, on January 3.

Elsie had been on her way home from a shopping trip when the two vehicles collided.

She died the next day in hospital while her father, who was driving the car, was left with permanent injuries.

Dudenski pleaded guilty to causing her death by dangerous driving and causing serious injury to Mr Gascoigne.

The defendant, who has been driving vans and lorries professionally for 17 years, was today jailed at Lincoln Crown Court and disqualified from driving for eight years.

Dudenski, who the court heard has a young child, was also told that he is liable to automatic deportation because he is a Bulgarian national.

Passing sentence, Judge Catarina Sjolin Knight told the defendant: 'You simply did not take the time and care you needed to ensure that when you crossed the centre line into the other carriageway it was clear.

'I did not until today see remorse for Elsie and her family.'

A victim impact statement from Elsie's mother was read out in court on behalf of the whole family.

'That day destroyed our lives and everything we were as a family,' she stated.

She described Elsie as a child who 'loved animals, especially horses and dreamed of owning a white horse.'

'We will never recover from this. Our daughter was seven years old, full of love, light and laughter, and she is gone forever,' she added.

Elsie Gascoigne, 7, was killed when her father's car was involved in a head-on collision with a van being driven dangerously by Veselin Dudenski, 39

Dudenski, who the court heard has a young child, was also told that he is liable to automatic deportation because he is a foreign national

Dudenski was working as a sub-contracted delivery driver when he attempted the overtake on the B1202 at Metheringham Heath.

Claire Holmes, prosecuting, said Elsie was a rear passenger in a blue Kia car and travelling home from a trip shopping and visiting McDonalds when the vehicle was struck head-on by Dudenski's white Citroen Relay van at around 5.45pm.

Ms Holmes told the court Dudenski had already overtaken a Ford Ranger and then, a short time later, moved onto the wrong side of the road to pass another unknown vehicle in the hidden dip.

The driver of the Ford Ranger said the first overtake was safe but described the second pass as 'silly,' the court heard.

Ms Holmes said: 'There were warnings of the hidden dip, road signs and road markings.

'Either Dudenski paid insignificant attention and did not see the warnings or he saw them and ignored them.'

The prosecutor said Mr Gascoigne tried to take evasive action but a head-on collision could not be avoided.

The driver of the Ford Ranger stopped to help but could not open the doors of the Kia.

The witness could see Elsie in the back of the vehicle and told Dudensk: 'You killed a kid.'

Elsie, from Metheringham, Lincs, was taken to hospital after suffering a broken neck but died in the early hours of the following morning.

Mr Gascoigne also suffered serious injuries in the collision and was left with a permanent disability to his elbow. He continues to suffer from flashbacks and nightmares.

Charles Myatt, mitigating, admitted Dudenski was familiar with the area but said he mistakenly thought he was at a different part of the road.

'He did not know the hidden dip was there,' Mr Myatt explained. 'He thought it was further along the road.'

Dudenski was sentenced to six years imprisonment for the offence of causing death by dangerous driving with a concurrent sentence of 22 months imprisonment for causing serious injury to Mr Gascoigne.

The court heard Dudenski has permanent settled status in the UK but is now liable for automatic deportation.
Volodymyr Zelensky's under-fire chief of staff has dramatically quit this afternoon hours after anti-graft investigators searched his home amid a deepening corruption crisis in Ukraine.

Andriy Yermak's resignation comes with Kyiv already rocked by a major fraud probe into 75million ($100m) energy kickbacks in what has been dubbed the 'golden toilet' scandal.

Zelensky, who announced Yermak's departure in a video this afternoon, is now facing mounting domestic chaos as he desperately tries to secure a favourable outcome in peace talks between Russia and America.

'Russia really wants Ukraine to make mistakes. There will be no mistakes on our part,' Zelensky said in the video.

Anti-graft agencies are already probing a massive energy corruption scandal that has been the latest embarrassment for the embattled president.

Both NABU and SAPO alleged that a group of seven, including Ukrainian government officials, were collecting bribes from the state nuclear power company, Energoatom.

The group of officials are said to have collected 10-15 per cent of the value of each contract given, amounting to 75million that was unlawfully given to the tiny group - money that could have been used to help defend Ukraine from Russian attacks.

The scandal provoked further anger after a former Ukrainian government official said the businessman allegedly at the head of the scheme 'had an apartment with golden toilets'.

Yermak's political opponents have been trying to link him to the scandal that has rocked the embattled nation, claiming that either he or one of his underlings is the anonymous individual referred to as 'Ali Baba' in wiretapped conversations related to the investigation.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky and Head of the Presidential Office Andriy Yermak walk, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine January 22, 2024

The 54-year-old previously denied involvement in the scheme, telling German newspaper Welt last week: 'People mention me, and sometimes, absolutely without any evidence, they try to accuse me of things I don't even know about.'

Yermak was once considered Ukraine's second-most powerful man, having stood by Zelensky's side since he took office in 2019.

Zelensky said of his former chief of staff: 'The president's office of Ukraine will undergo a full reboot. Its head, Andriy Yermak, has tendered his resignation.

'I am grateful to Andriy for consistently presenting Ukraine's position at the negotiating table exactly as it ought to be presented. His stance has always been staunchly patriotic.

'However, I want to avoid any rumours or needless speculation. As for the future head of the Office, tomorrow I will hold consultations with those who may be suited to lead this institution.'

He added: 'We are now preparing for a meeting with the American side to discuss the steps needed to secure a genuine peace, and one that is worthy of our people.

'At a time when all attention is fixed on diplomacy and on defending the country during the war, we must draw on our inner strength... and for that inner strength to hold, there must be no distractions from anything other than the defence of Ukraine. I want there to be no doubts about our country, from anyone'.

The alleged ringleader and mastermind of the corruption scheme is businessman Timur Mindich, a long-time contact of Zelensky's.

Even before Zelensky's shock rise to high office in 2019, Mindich is said to have been one of his closest associates.

Businessman Timur Mindich has been named as one of several suspects and is understood to have fled Ukraine last week

The scam has been named the 'golden toilet' scandal because one of the suspects had a gold lavatory in his luxury apartment. FILE PHOTO: A golden toilet inside the house of Russian colonel Alexey Safonov

A man walks in front of burning residential building after a Russian attack on Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine, Wednesday, November 26, 2025

A resident stands on a street while buildings burn after an evening Russian drone strike, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine, November 25, 2025

Zelenksy and Mindich's close friendship is well documented and, according to Ukrainian officials, experts and activists, Mindich's rise to power is closely linked to his relationship with Zelensky's inner circle.

The president used Mindich's armored car during the final stretch of his presidential campaign in 2019, and in 2021, Zelensky celebrated his birthday in the businessman's apartment during COVID. The two own properties in the same building.

Mindich was also a close business associate of Ukrainian oligarch Ihor Kolomoysky, who backed Zelensky's presidential campaign.

Zelensky later cut ties with the billionaire and in 2023, Kolomoysky was arrested by Ukrainian security services on fraud and money-laundering charges.

This didn't stop the Ukrainian president from placing sanctions against Mindich, who has since fled Ukraine. Any criminal proceedings against Mindich, who has reportedly fled to Poland, are likely to be carried out in absentia.

The scandal comes as Donald Trump is said to be preparing to recognise Russian control over Crimea and other occupied Ukrainian territories in a bid to secure a deal with Vladimir Putin to end the war.

According to The Telegraph, officials close to the talks say the US president has dispatched his peace envoy, Steve Witkoff, along with his son-in-law, Jared Kushner, to set out the proposal to Putin in Moscow.

The move would mark the most dramatic shift in US policy toward the conflict since Russia seized Crimea in 2014, and risks a major split with European governments that have repeatedly rejected any peace plans involving territorial concessions.

One official briefed on Witkoff and Kushner's approach told the publication: 'It's increasingly clear the Americans don't care about the European position. They say the Europeans can do whatever they want.'
FRANCE is belatedly to make limited attempts to stop migrant dinghies at sea  after Keir Starmer privately admitted there was no effective deterrent.

The astonishing admission has emerged in a leak to a French newspaper, showing the British Prime Minister has begged for action to halt the rising numbers of small boats crossing the Channel.

More than 60,000 migrants have arrived in Britain via dinghy since Labours election last year.

One of Sir Keirs first acts was to abandon the Conservative deterrent plan of flying small boat arrivals to Rwanda.

His own policy of deporting a small proportion of such illegals back across the Channel has seen only 153 go back - with, farcically, at least two of THEM immediately returning to England. And 134 legitimate migrants have been flown here in return.

Crucially, since the small-boat crossings began in 2018, France has refused to intervene against dinghies or migrants in water as little as ankle deep, through fear of drownings.

Only now is action to begin, following Sir Keirs desperate plea  but safety remains paramount.

Migrants charge into the sea at Gravelines, near Dunkirk, to board an England-bound dinghy

Papers leaked to Frances Le Monde newspaper suggest dinghies will only be stopped while relatively empty, and the rubber boats will not be slashed. Neither will they be snagged in nets.

Downing Street added that any action would only take place in the shallows.

And the Daily Mails observation of people smugglers so-called taxi boats shows that there are only moments when fewer than a dozen migrants are aboard.

In the hotspot harbour town of Gravelines, between Calais and Dunkirk, the small boats are typically launched on a canal to the sea, a mile inland, before dawn.

But the 30ft-long dinghies need around a dozen men to carry them to the water  and those men then board immediately. Whether a boat carrying 12 will be deemed suitable to tackle remains to be seen.

Once the initial team of migrants is aboard, they chug straight out to the Channel and collect up to 70 more 1,200-a-fare passengers from the neighbouring beach, before heading for Dover.

An official document confirming the new tactic, obtained by Le Monde, was signed on Tuesday by four local government prefects for the Channel and North Sea coastline.

This includes the beaches around Calais and Dunkirk, from which more than a thousand migrants sometimes head for England in a single day.

The document confirms the Maritime Gendarmeriewill conduct operations at sea to intercept inflatable boats intended to transport migrants to England.

Embarrassingly for Sir Keir, the leak quotes a letter he sent French president Emmanuel Macron pleading: It is essential that we deploy these tactics this month, adding, We do not have an effective deterrent in the Channel.

Yet exactly how far the Maritime Gendarmerie will go remains undefined, with the leaked document saying: The unprecedented nature and sensitivity of these operations necessitate adaptability and flexibility, continuing the absolute and unwavering priority is safeguarding human life.

A Maritime Gendarmerie source told the BBC dinghies would only be stopped at sea before picking up passengers.

The sea police will focus on ports and channels, such as the sea canal through Gravelines, and target the taxi boats  which have emerged over the last few years to exploit the authorities refusal to tackle boats or migrants already in the water.

But the leaked document says the officers will use graduated and reversible measures covering a spectrum ranging from an order to stop, to immobilising the boats, to diverting them, and to handing the individuals over to the authorities.

An order to stop is likely to be ignored.

And reversible measures indicates the officers will not slash or puncture the inflatable boats, causing them to sink  in apparent recognition of the fact that the African migrants often used by the Iraqi Kurd people-smuggling gangs to launch the boats, in return for cheaper fares, may be non-swimmers.

A spokesperson for the Maritime Gendarmerie also stressed that nets would NOT be used to intercept boats or even to snarl their outboard motor propellers, contrary to previous speculation.

French police unions are wary of both endangering migrants at sea  possibly leading to manslaughter charges  and of the drowning risk to officers.

A source at police union Alliance said: People dont seem to realise how dangerous it is to try and carry out arrests at sea, while trying to force a boat to change course.

If there are eighty people on an overcrowded boat, including women and children, then it is extremely dangerous to try to stop them.

A senior French Navy officer has also objected to sea interceptions, saying: Disaster, including drownings, can easily happen.

A UK Government spokesman said: We continue to work closely with our French partners on the shared challenge of illegal migration, and we have already worked to ensure officers in France review their maritime tactics so they can intervene in the shallow waters.

There have been no recorded dinghy crossings this week due to high winds  bad weather remaining the only effective barrier to crossings.
Sir Keir Starmer is once more at war with the left after he ditched a key part of Angela Rayner's workers' rights bonanza.

Just a day after the Prime Minister and Rachel Reeves caved into Labour backbenchers' demands by lifting the two-child benefit cap, he reignited their fury by scrapping long-standing plans to allow employees to claim unfair dismissal from day one in new jobs.

Yet ministers denied claims by angry MPs that the latest U-turn constituted another breach of the party's manifesto while Downing Street dodged allegations it had lied about the secret talks with unions and business chiefs that led to the climbdown.

As the PM faced demands from trade unions to reinstate to the watered-down proposal, the Tories urged him to hold firm  and go further by scrapping the entire Employment Rights Bill.

Shadow Business Secretary Andrew Griffith told the Daily Mail: 'Only last Monday Starmer said he was fully in favour of saddling businesses with ruinous day one legal burdens. It's good that he's changed his mind but who can tell whether it lasts.

'And with its back to the 1970s blank cheque to the unions, he really ought to have the spine to scrap the whole thing.'

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Chancellor Rachel Reeves pictured the day after the Budget

Last year Labour's election manifesto vowed a Government led by Sir Keir would introduce legislation in its first 100 days to 'make work pay' including 'introducing basic rights from day one to parental leave, sick pay, and protection from unfair dismissal'.

Yet the bill, which the Government's own impact assessment admits will cost businesses 5billion a year, has not yet become law after the House of Lords  where Labour does not have a majority  repeatedly voted down key elements.

On Thursday evening, the Government dramatically announced it was giving in and would replace day one protection from unfair dismissal with a reduction in the qualifying period from the current two years to six months, as peers had suggested.

Former employment minister Justin Madders, a close ally of Ms Rayner, said: 'It might be a compromise. It might even be necessary to get the Bill passed (as soon as possible). But it most definitely is a manifesto breach.'

Veteran Labour MP Diane Abbott said: 'This is a breach of our manifesto commitments.'

Former Shadow Employment Minister Andy McDonald said: 'We went into the election with that manifesto promise to bring about day one rights, including the right not to be unfairly dismissed.'

And General Secretary of the TSSA union Maryam Eslamdoust said: 'This is a very significant watering down of the Employment Rights Bill and a breach of Labour's manifesto commitment - one we do not support. It's vital that the government thinks again about this damaging U-turn.'

Yet Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson denied Labour was breaking another manifesto pledge  just days after the Chancellor was accused of doing so by freezing income tax thresholds again.

She told Sky News on Friday: 'In the manifesto, what we said was that we would work with trade unions, with businesses, with civil society, in consulting on those protections that we'd be bringing forward.

'So, there are both parts to that, within the manifesto, the important rights and the consultation.'

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson denied Labour had breached a manifesto pledge by scrapping the plan to let workers claim unfair dismissal on day one in their new jobs

On Monday, the Prime Minister's spokesman had told reporters: 'The Employment Rights Bill is good for workers, it's good for businesses and it's good for the economy, and we will overturn all attempts to scupper these plans including watering down day one protection from unfair dismissal.'

However at the same time, ministers had been meeting unions and business groups behind closed doors to thrash out the compromise that was agreed on Thursday.

Asked if it would have been more honest to tell journalists the talks were taking place, a No 10 spokesman said on Friday: 'It was our position as of then and going into those talks that we wanted to deliver those reforms as swiftly as possible and in full.'

Sources said negotiations were still live and no agreement had been reached at the time of Monday's statement to reporters.
Britain is braced for a weekend washout with torrential downpours and strong winds set to batter the UK.

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning across parts of the UK from Saturday until early next week.

As much as two inches of rain is expected to fall in some areas and the heavy rain could lead to travel disruption for Brits due to difficult driving conditions.

Forecasters warned that a developing area of low pressure would move across Wales, the Midlands, southern England and parts of Yorkshire on Saturday.

This will bring 'bands of heavy rain and gusty winds'.

There is potential for 20-30mm of rain to fall across England and Wales, with 50mm possible in places and on high ground, there is chance of between 60 to 80mm of rain falling.

The Met Office has also issued a further yellow weather warning for rain on Monday covering much of the south of England as well as parts of Wales.

They said another Atlantic system will sweep in from the South West at the end of the weekend.

Two woman shelter from the rain under an umbrella in Cheltenham. As much as two inches of rain is expected to fall in some areas

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning across parts of the UK from Saturday until early next week

This is expected to bring further rain, with the heaviest rainfall likely over parts of south and south-west England and South Wales.

There will also be strong winds, with wind gusts reaching gale force along exposed costs, it added.

Jason Kelly, chief meteorologist at the Met Office, said: 'While the exact track of the low remains uncertain at this time, there is a clear signal for strong winds and periods of heavy rain, which could lead to surface water flooding and delays to road and rail travel.

'Rain will also push into north-east England during Saturday, some of which could fall as snow over higher ground when the system meets colder air coming down from the north.

'Sunday will be drier and brighter, albeit colder, for many areas with blustery winds lingering near some North Sea coasts. Expect widespread frost overnight into Monday before the next weather system approaches.'

A spokesperson for the Met Office added: 'Yellow warnings for rain have been issued and we are closely monitoring developments. Forecasts will be updated as the situation evolves.'

There is a chance that homes and businesses could be flooded, with a small chance that some communities will become cut off from flooded roads, the forecaster said.

It estimated the chance of power cuts and loss of other services to some homes and businesses as 'slight'.

Motorists should be braced for difficult driving conditions as parts of Britain prepare for a weekend washout

Residents are urged to check if their property could be at risk of flooding and to consider preparing a flood plan and kit if so.

The weather is expected to remain changeable through next week, with occasional dry spells.

According to forecasters, there could be some snowfall across some areas of the north next week.

But overall temperatures are expected to be a little warmer than usual next week.
President Donald Trump has banned South Africa from attending next year's G20 summit for what he characterizes as human rights abuses leading to the slaughter of 'white people.'

'The United States did not attend the G20 in South Africa, because the South African Government refuses to acknowledge or address the horrific Human Right Abuses endured by Afrikaners, and other descendants of Dutch, French, and German settlers,' the president wrote on social media Friday morning.

'Therefore, at my direction, South Africa will NOT be receiving an invitation to the 2026 G20, which will be hosted in the Great City of Miami, Florida next year,' he continued.

The president has been outraged over reports of South Africans killing their fellow Afrikaner minority and instructed his administration to boycott last week's G20 summit in Johannesburg.

Trump has said they face a 'white genocide' under the current South African regime led by Cyril Ramaphosa, who denies the claim. In May, Trump confronted Ramaphosa during a meeting in the Oval Office, where he showed the president videos and pictures of the alleged atrocities.

South African crime statistics do not show that Afrikaners are being targeted in a systematic or genocidal manner. The country's overall murder rate is high, but the majority of victims are Black South Africans, not Afrikaners.

The montage featured clips of speeches from Julius Malema, the founder and leader of the communist Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party, who regularly uses the 'Shoot the Boer, Shoot the farmer' at rallies. Though Malema and Ramaphosa regularly disagree and are at odds.

'To put it more bluntly, they are killing white people, and randomly allowing their farms to be taken from them,' Trump wrote on Friday. 'Therefore, at my direction, South Africa will NOT be receiving an invitation to the 2026 G20, which will be hosted in the Great City of Miami, Florida next year,' he added.

'At my direction, South Africa will NOT be receiving an invitation to the 2026 G20, which will be hosted in the Great City of Miami, Florida next year,' Trump posted on Friday

Phakamile Sitho representing 'No More Farm Murders' carries a placard as he protests with his small group on the opening day of the G20 Summit, outside the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa, November 22, 2025

South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa speaks during the G20

Claims of a 'white genocide' have been repeatedly dismissed by South African officials, independent judges, and international media as 'imaginary' and 'not real'

In addition, the president announced that the G20 member would no longer receive aid from the US.

'South Africa has demonstrated to the World they are not a country worthy of Membership anywhere, and we are going to stop all payments and subsidies to them, effective immediately.'

The US obligated $564 million for the country in FY2024, according to USA Facts, and $103 million for FY2025. The Trump administration also pulled funding for the country in its crackdown on USAID earlier this year.

Taking a shot at his lifelong foes, the president also accused the New York Times and the 'Fake News Media' of not issuing 'a word against this genocide.'

'That's why all the Liars and Pretenders of the Radical Left Media are going out of business!'

The latest road bump with the country happened during the G20 last week.

Typically, the G20 ceremony concludes with a gaveling out ceremony and the handover of control to the country that will host the annual meeting next.

World Leaders including European Council President Antonio Costa, China's Prime Minister Li Qiang, Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Angola's President Joao Lourenco, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and France's President Emmanuel Macron pose for a photograph as leaders assembled for the 'family photo' at the G20 Summit, in Johannesburg, South Africa, November 22, 2025

Since the US boycotted the session in South Africa, no US official received the gavel.

Though Trump claims there was a US representative there and that Ramaphosa willingly chose not to pass off the gavel.

'At the conclusion of the G20, South Africa refused to hand off the G20 Presidency to a Senior Representative from our U.S. Embassy, who attended the Closing Ceremony,' Trump alleged.

That went against a previous statement from the president, however.

'No US Government Official will attend as long as these Human Rights abuses continue,' Trump posted earlier this month before the G20.
A Texas girl rescued from a collapsing sand hole was close to being buried alive before being saved by her father.

The 12yearold became trapped at the Spring Creek nature trail in The Woodlands after a large hole she was digging in the sand caved in.

The terrifying collapse happened around 5pm on Thanksgiving near the end of Pruitt Road.

The preteen was covered 'completely', according to The Woodlands Fire Department.

When firefighters, medics and police arrived, only the girl's face and head were showing.

The girl's father had immediately rushed to her rescue and cleared enough sand from around his daughter's head to keep her breathing.

Units from the South Montgomery County Fire Department, the Montgomery County Hospital District and the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office also responded to the call.

They found the preteen buried in a sandbar on the west bank of Panther Creek, south of a pedestrian bridge.

A 12yearold girl was trapped in the Spring Creek nature trail in The Woodlands when a hole she was digging collapsed

The preteen's father immediately responded to the sand hole's collapse and cleared enough sand from around his daughter's head to allow her to breathe

They 'carefully cleared away' the sand and freed the girl, The Woodlands Fire Department said.

The girl was evaluated by doctors after being rescued and released to her parents. They 'declined' to take her to the hospital, officials said.

No further updates have been released regarding the girl's identity or subsequent condition since Thursday.

Photos released on Facebook showed more than a dozen responders working to clear the scene of the cavein.

In a social media post, The Woodlands Fire Department said: 'First responders from four agencies worked together seamlessly to turn a near tragedy into a Thanksgiving story that will be told for decades!'

The heroic rescue was also praised by local officials.

Montgomery County judge Mark Keough likewise pointed out that law enforcement had sprung into action during a holiday.

He wrote on Facebook: 'While most of us were enjoying family and turkey dinner many of our first responders were out doing what they do best.

The Woodlands Fire Department said a call was placed around 5pm Thursday reporting a cavein

So thankful for the men and women who work around the clock to keep us safe. They worked quickly to make this bad day better for this family.'

The Montgomery County Fire Marshal's Office thanked the local agencies involved in saving the girl.

'On this day of Thanksgiving, we are grateful for all those serving our community,' the office shared on social media.

The Spring Creek nature trail runs for 14 miles and is advertised as being, 'open to hikers, bikers, birders, and other nature lovers.'

The trail was mostly built by volunteers, according to its website.

A map posted by The Woodlands Fire Department showing where the rescue took place depicted the trail as being almost entirely surrounded by trees.

The Daily Mail reached out to the Woodlands Fire Department, the South Montgomery County Fire Department and the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office for further comment.
An American woman who mysteriously disappeared from a cruise ship in the Caribbean has been found.

Ann Evans, 55, vanished during an organized island tour on Sint Maarten, east of Puerto Rico, on November 20.

In an update on Friday, the Police Force of Sint Maarten said: 'Following coordination between KPSM and other partners, contact has been made with the individual in question.

'In accordance with the laws governing privacy and the protection of personal data, no additional information will be released about the individual or their circumstances.'

She was last seen departing the Holland America Line Rotterdam ship that morning before boarding the bus tour but never returned.

Officials hunting for Evans said she got off the bus in Marigot, French Saint Martin, and an update on Thursday said she was spotted checking into a hotel.

Questions still remain over her disappearance. It is unclear at this time if she was traveling on her own, and if she has since returned to the ship.

Ann Evans, 55, was only at the second stop of her cruise when she failed to return to the ship on November 20

She was traveling on a Holland America Line cruise (pictured: stock image)

It is also unclear at this time why the missing persons alert wasn't issued until a week after she never returned to the ship.

Evans's trip to the Netherlands-owned island was only the second stop on the cruise.

The ship took off from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on November 16, stopping at Carnival's private island, Half Moon Cay, before hitting the Dutch-French island.

The boat traveled to St Lucia Island, Tobago, Barbados and more afterward.

According to the Holland America website, the Rotterdam ship is their newest vessel and can house up to 4,173 guests when its staterooms are all fully booked.

In a statement, the company said: 'We appreciate the efforts of local authorities in Sint Maarten and were glad to see the situation has been resolved.'

The Daily Mail has contacted the Police Force of Sint Maarten for further comment.
Militant resident doctors are to vote on extending their strike mandate for a further six months as they pursue a 26 per cent pay rise.

The British Medical Association would be free to inflict chaos on the NHS until August if members back the move in a major blow to patients.

The medics, previously known as junior doctors, have already received a pay rise worth 28.9 per cent over the past three years but are seeking even more.

Health secretary Wes Streeting has accused the morally reprehensible BMA of acting like a cartel and of trying to hold the country to ransom over their demands.

He has tried to drive a wedge between doctors and their union, writing to them directly before their last strike earlier this month to outline proposals for improving their working conditions and pleading with them to cross picket lines and report for duty.

Support for strikes appears to be waning among resident doctors, with fewer than half of those eligible to vote backing walkouts at the last ballot.

The doctors cost the health service around 300million each time they walkout for five days, while also hampering efforts to cut waiting lists.

Health leaders warn that further action would force hospitals to cut frontline services as the burden of paying consultants overtime to cover for absent colleagues blows an unmanageable hole in their budgets.

Striking doctors munch on donuts on the picket line

It comes a day after the BMA was accused of hypocrisy for offering its own staff a pay rise of just 2 per cent, sparking a formal dispute with the GMB union, which represents over three in four of its employees.

Dr Layla McCay, director of policy at the NHS Confederation, said health service leaders will be incredibly disappointed at the BMAs decision to re-ballot its members.

We know that strikes have had a major financial impact on the NHS already, with the last five-day walkout estimated to have cost a staggering 300 million, she said.

'With these costs not included in the health services budgets, future strikes will force NHS leaders to make difficult choices, including reducing staff and patient services to try and balance the books.

Dr Jack Fletcher, chairman of the BMAs resident doctors committee, said: A new mandate for strikes should not be necessary.

We should have been able to put this dispute to bed months ago with a responsible deal on jobs and pay.

The last walkout by resident doctors took place from November 14 to 19.

The ballot to extend the strike mandate will run from December 8 until February 2.

Health secretary Wes Streeting

Medics will be asked if they are prepared to take action over a lack of jobs and severe pay erosion, the BMA said.

Mr Streeting said: It is disappointing to see the BMA threatening further unnecessary strike action which harms patients, the NHS and resident doctors themselves.

After a 28.9 per cent pay rise over the last three years and the highest pay awards across the whole public sector for the last two, resident doctors can see this is a Government that backs them.

'The Government made an offer that would improve the career progression and job opportunities of resident doctors, and lower the professional costs of being a doctor.

The BMA rejected it without even putting it to their members. It is the BMA that is blocking a better deal for its members.

Instead of indulging in more damaging strike action, the BMA should get back around the table and work with us to rebuild our NHS.
Las Vegas's main airport has seen a worrying drop in the number of passengers passing through it, as tourists shun Sin City over rip-off prices.

Harry Reid International Airport saw 4.9 million passengers arrive and depart in October - an 8.9 percent drop compared to October 2024.

That drop was not a mere blip either, with passenger numbers down 5.1 percent so far in 2025 compared to last year, with a total of 46.3 million using the travel hub.

Passengers using budget airline Spirit to fly to Las Vegas slumped by an enormous 61 percent in October compared to last year, with just 300,000 using the bright yellow jets for Sin City travel.

Spirit has filed for bankruptcy protection twice this year, with that financial chaos affecting its schedules.

But passenger numbers at Harry Reid are unlikely to recover soon.

Tourism from Canada - a vitally important market for Vegas.

Those numbers have been blamed on soaring prices, President Trump's tariffs and his 'jokes' about turning the country into America's 51st state.

Sin City has struggled throughout 2025 amid skyrocketing prices, falling rates of hotel stays and a lack of tourists to the Nevada party hub

Spirit Airlines carried just under 300,000 passengers to Las Vegas in October - a steep 61.2 percent drop from the year before

The number of international tourists visiting Harry Reid dropped by 14.2 percent in October compared to the same month last year.

Canada sat well above that average - its two major airlines WestJet and Air Canada saw passengers slump by 33.2 percent and 26.3 percent respectively.

The top boss of MGM resorts has even admitted Las Vegas has become a rip-off and even declared 'shame on us' as he derided his own hotels' extortionate prices that have driven tourists way.

MGM President and CEO Bill Hornbuckle revealed during an earnings call last month that his resorts have 'price-corrected' after being rocked by a summer of public scandal.

The company was met with heavy criticism after a guest at its four-star ARIA hotel revealed they were charged $26 for a single bottle of water.

The Daily Mail revealed the company's flagship Bellagio Hotel was charging guests an extra $25 just to eat room service off plates.

Visitation dropped 4.4 percent to 3.4 million people in October compared to the same month last year

The number of passengers at Harry Reid International Airport fell 8.2 percent to 4.9 million compared to October 2024

MGM's parking fees, restaurant and cafe menu prices, and the hefty resort fees guest are charged on top of their nightly room rate, have also come under fire.

'Shame on us,' Hornbuckle told the investor meeting, according to a transcript of the call reviewed by the Daily Mail.

Highlighting the 'infamous bottle of water' and how a Starbucks coffee at three-star Excalibur costs $12, the CEO admitted the firm had not been considerate to the needs of its clientele.

'We should have been more sensitive to the overall experience at a place like Excalibur to those customers,' he said.

'You can't have a $29 room and a $12 coffee.'

He added that MGM has made changes to its prices and believes the company has demonstrated that 'we understand value, we understand Las Vegas, and we'll always be that.'
This is the moment a prolific thief who punched a pensioner to death in the street for his saveloy and chips takeaway was arrested.

Peter Augustine, 59, brutally murdered frail John Mackey, 87, after he visited a Co-op store in Manor House, north London, on the afternoon of May 6.

Augustine had watched Mr Mackey as he made his way to the shop then a takeaway to buy himself some dinner.

The killer shouted 'give me the bag' during the tussle, and left his elderly victim lying prone on the floor and bleeding profusely from his head after a savage, minute-long assault.

Augustine, who claimed he was motivated by hunger, then frisked Mr Mackey, who had dementia and walked with a stick, and made off with his shopping bag - which included a box of cornflakes, an own brand cottage pie and his dinner of sausage and chips.

He was arrested at home by police, who found a half-eaten portion of saveloy and chips.

In bodycam footage captured during his arrest, Augustine furiously told police officers: 'I've not murdered nobody... I've not killed no one. What you talking about?'

Augustine, who refused to attend court, was handed a life sentence with a minimum term of 23 years before he can be considered for release by Her Honour Judge Sarah Whitehouse KC at the Old Bailey today.

She said: 'It was a cowardly attack, the defendant has shown no remorse.

Frail John Mackey, 87, was murdered as he visited a Co-op store in Manor House, north London

The moment police arrested Peter Augustine for the murder of John Mackey

The prosecutor told jurors that at the time, Augustine (pictured) was living in 'reduced circumstances' and was effectively homeless

'Peter Augustine killed this gentle, innocent man.

'He attacked Mr Mackey for a box of cornflakes, a pint of milk and a saveloy sausage.'

'I have no doubt that if the defendant was genuinely starving, I have no doubt that this kind, generous gentleman would have shared what he had with him.'

Mr Mackey's family praised the judge's verdict, saying: 'Knowing [Augustine] will never see the light of day is the only consolation we have to losing such a wonderful uncle.'

Mr Mackey's niece Patricia Schan gave a moving statement to the court on behalf of the family.

She described her Arsenal-supporting uncle as 'perfect', one of 11 brothers and sisters who had no children of his own but was very close to his 22 nieces and nephews.

She said: 'He always had a twinkle in his eye, dressed immaculately and never seen without one of his many trilby hats.'

A member of the jury, who returned to witness the sentencing, appeared to wipe a tear from her eye as Ms Schan paid tribute to her uncle, an Irishman from Callan in County Kilkenny, who had lived in London for around 70 years.

Johns family also paid tribute to him outside court, saying: 'Today is the end of a journey our family never wanted to take and wouldn't wish on anyone.

'A lovely gentle uncle was taken from us in a brutal act of senseless violence by a man the exact opposite of John Mackey

'Dearly loved by your sisters Betty and Ellen, brothers Tommy and Liam, his 22 nieces and nephews in his community, John was a quiet, unassuming, and charming man.'

'His loss will always be felt, but his memory will live on in the true Irish tradition of storytelling, and there are still many tales. He will always be remembered with a smile.

Police pieced together events from CCTV footage, although the attack itself was not caught on camera.

John Mackey (pictured), who was bleeding from his head, regained consciousness but was unable to tell officers what had happened

Mr Mackey's family including nephew Adrian Kennedy, centre, welcomed the sentence of life imprisonment

Mr Mackey had set off from his address shortly after 5pm wearing a distinctive trilby hat, grey mackintosh coat and carrying a walking stick and black bag.

At 5.12pm, he went into the Co-op where he bought cornflakes, an own-brand cottage pie and Mirror newspaper which he put in his bag.

He paid for his goods using a 20 note and put the change of 11.50 in his trouser pocket.

Eighteen minutes later, Augustine began to follow the pensioner.

Mr Mackey then went into Manor Kebab at 5.36pm and bought sausage and chips as the defendant loitered outside, the trial was told.

The victim was last seen on camera at 5.50pm and Augustine reappeared on CCTV three minutes later carrying what looked like the victim's bag, the trial heard.

A later search of the defendant's room uncovered what was left of Mr Mackey's groceries and wrapping from the cottage pie, and sausage and chips.

Mr Mackey regained consciousness briefly in hospital but was unable to tell police exactly what happened before he died from his injuries.

Prosecutor Jane Bickerstaff KC previously told the trial Mr Mackey was 5ft 5ins tall and weighed less than nine stone.

She said: 'He would have been largely unable to put up any resistance to the attack due to his age and infirmity.'

She told the sentencing hearing today: 'What he (Augustine) in fact did, over the course of a minute, was he used a level of violence, causing in that time a fatal injury, all wholly unnecessary, carried out in extreme anger.'

The prosecutor told jurors that at the time, Augustine was living in 'reduced circumstances' and was effectively homeless.

She said he had used 'extreme force' after he targeted Mr Mackey.

'When the defendant kicked and punched an elderly, vulnerable and largely defenceless man, who was prone on the floor, the Crown says that he intended to cause him really serious harm,' Ms Bickerstaff said.

Augustine was handed a life term with a minimum of 23 years for murder, less the 203 days he has spent in custody.

He was also handed an eight-year sentence for robbery, and a further four-week sentence for theft three days before the attack. The sentences will run concurrently.

The judge said Augustine, who has a host of previous convictions, may never be released from prison.

Speaking outside the court, Mr Mackey's family said: 'My personal view is relief, a lack of respect but relief. Because he was so disruptive during the trial and the complete lack of respect he showed our uncle and us as a family.

'Today was just wonderful because he would have disrupted it so much it wouldn't have happened as it did.'
A row has erupted after a BBC Scotland journalist issued a bizarre trigger warning ahead of an interview with Sandie Peggies lawyer, claiming some listeners may find her vocabulary challenging.

The astonishing intervention came as Martin Geissler, host of the Scotcast podcast, introduced barrister Naomi Cunningham, who has represented the A&E nurse in her fight against NHS Fife and trans medic Dr Beth Upton.

The leading barrister has also hit out at the Scottish Government for being in denial over the landmark Supreme Court ruling on the Equality Act 2010.

At the start of the podcast, Mr Geissler welcomed Ms Cunningham, adding that she represents one side in what is a white-hot argument and for that reason there may be some people out there who find some of the vocabulary shes about to use a bit challenging.

The broadcasters words sparked an angry backlash, with critics questioning whether the corporations guidelines on impartiality may have been breached.

The campaign group SEEN in Journalism (SIJ) posted on social media: If any gratitude you feel to Scotcast for platforming Naomi Cunningham is putting you off complaining about the trigger warning, dont let it. It must never happen again.

Posting on X, Ms Cunningham said: The journalists of SEEN in Journalism are right... It needs to stop.

Lawyer Naomi Cunningham gave an interview to the BBC's Scotcast

Nurse Sandie Peggie has sued NHS Fife and trans medic Dr Beth Upton

The BBCs Martin Geissler called Peggie lawyers comments challenging

Last night, a BBC Scotland spokesman said the phrasing fell short of a formal trigger warning.

Scottish Conservative MSP Annie Wells said: I strongly suspect no such caveat would have preceded an interview with a trans-rights activist.

Several people posted that they had already complained, or were planning to complain, to BBC Scotland over Ms Cunninghams treatment.
A shockingly petty sibling squabble broke out amongst five heirs after they were each told they'd inherit a $10 million home as part of their family's 'trust reveal'.

The unidentified offspring were exposed in a recent Wall Street Journal article offering a fascinating insight into how and when the offspring of the super-wealthy are told how much their parents plan to give them.

Jen Galvagna, head of trust, estates and tax at the Bank of America, revealed the circumstances around the falling out of the unnamed family.

She told the outlet that the five heirs were to each inherit one of their family's homes around the world. Three of the properties were worth around $10 million each and were carefully chosen to give the impression of the parents being fair.

Hoping to avoid a sibling squabble, their parents even fixed their trust fund in such a way so that if one received a more expensive home their share of liquid assets fell.

But Galvagna said insults and accusations were soon flying.

'People were questioning why they got this house, and not the other house', she told the outlet.

The ungrateful siblings nitpicked over the location of their respective mansions - with one on water the most sought after - as well as how well they'd been renovated.

HBO's hit drama Succession saw the offspring of media magnate Logan Roy (played by Brian Cox, center) locked in a series of petty and personal squabbles over their inheritance. And the super-rich behave just the same way in real life, experts say

The enviable drama calls to mind HBO's hit series Succession, in which the cosseted and lazy children of media magnate Logan Roy (Brian Cox) fought over what they perceived to be their dues.

According to those who spoke with the Journal, the most popular structure for the uber rich involves a dynasty trust.

Those trusts enable their holders to move wealth down through a potentially infinite number of generations in a way that can legally avoid estate and inheritance taxes.

Galvagna told the outlet that she worked with a trust that was set up specifically to help fund a child's equestrian hobby.

The fund was filled with $75 million and allowed the client's daughter to buy and stable horses, cover medical bills, hire instructors and insure the animals.

Galvagna said the trust allowed for further distributions tied to the girl's education, health and other expenses.

Another family put an emphasis on money being paid out of their fund specifically for travel, in the hopes that their children would see the world.

Galvagna said that the fund allowed for a $300,000 annual disbursement just for vacations.

Jen Galvagna, head of trust, estates and tax at the Bank of America, seen here, revealed the circumstances around the falling out of the unnamed family

According to those who spoke with the Wall Street Journal, the most popular structure for the uber rich involves a dynasty trust

Other experts say ultra-rich parents are keen to provide for their children while emphasizing the need for them to work hard and contribute to society.

Some trusts will match an heir's existing income to motivate them to progress through their career and climb the ladder.

Others pay out bonuses if a heir graduated with a certain grade average, or if they earned a four-year degree.

They are typically stuffed with stocks, bonds, cash, properties and family heirlooms but some occasionally contain businesses or other assets.

Sunil Tolani, a hotel entrepreneur, told the outlet that a Holiday Inn Express he owns and other hotels are all in a trust fund for his sons.

As well as the properties, his personal homes, gold jewelry, watches and his wife's Hermes handbags are all included.

Tolani said: 'The biggest gift you can give to the people you love is to create an estate plan.'

Luke Jernagan works with families in breaking the news of the value of their trust funds to their children.

He told the outlet that he helps write scripts for them and his firm will actually host the meeting, saying: 'I've never been to one of those where people weren't teary.'

According to the outlet, one of the reasons families start to disclose the true values of the funds is if they suspect one of their children is on the verge of marrying.

Failing to have that talk can prove difficult, a Fidelity survey found this year that 68 percent of parents hadn't told their children what they would inherit.

Over half hadn't discussed their net worth with their kids, fearing that their may blow the money.

According to Cerulli Associates, over $100 trillion will be passed down to younger generations and to charities until 2048. Around $62 trillion will come from high-net-worth individuals.

Trusts and estates have already generated $290 billion in income for beneficiaries this year alone. If that figure keeps on track, it will blow a record that dates back to 2003, according to tracker IBISWorld.
What an image. No wonder it went viral. A woman in a burka strides across a parliamentary chamber, face and body entirely concealed, but legs  and high heels  very much on display.

The faces you can see, those of her political colleagues, say it all: What on earth? The proud and unrepentant owner of the legs, and the burka (bought online, she tells me. Can you imagine if Id gone into a shop?) is Senator Pauline Hanson, founder and leader of the Right-wing populist One Nation party in Australia.

Think of her as Nigel Farage  but in a frock and with the flamboyance and footwork that comes with having made the final of the Australian version of Strictly Come Dancing.

This week, the 71-year-old grandmother-of- five caused uproar when, objecting to not being allowed to introduce a Bill to ban public wearing of full-face coverings such as the burka and niqab, she marched out of the Senate  only to return clad in her very own black burka, arguing that, since there was no dress code in parliament, she had every right to wear it.

The spectacle caused uproar. The Senate was suspended for an hour and a half.

Condemnation came fast, with colleagues  across party lines  calling the stunt racist, disrespectful, a mockery of faith. Senator Hanson was accused of vilifying Islam and stoking prejudice. She was suspended from the Senate for seven days, the motion to punish her carried by 55-5, one of the strongest rebukes in decades.

It was not the first time she has faced serious accusations of racism. In 2022, after she told fellow senator Mehreen Faruqi on social media to pack your bags and p*** off back to Pakistan, she was censured by the Senate. In 2024 a court held Hanson legally liable for racial discrimination, a judge ruling that her comment breached the Racial Discrimination Act because it was likely to offend, insult, humiliate or intimidate on the basis of race or national origin.

Does she care about the furore she has caused this week? Absolutely not. Have you seen my Facebook page? she asks, defiant during our Zoom interview.

Senator Pauline Hanson is founder and leader of the Right-wing populist One Nation party in Australia

She caused uproar when she marched into the Senate in a black burka and high heels in protest over not being allowed to introduce a bill banning them

I dont know if youre aware but Ive got the biggest social media following of any politician [in Australia]. Ive got 200k more followers than the prime minister.

Ive had people joining my party because of this. Ordinary people are behind me. Ive had people coming up giving me hugs. People who disagreed with me 20 years ago have been coming up saying, You were right. The things you warned us about have happened. 

The woman who likes to cause outrage  Im the woman who will say the unsayable, she declares  is outraged that her protest is being called a stunt.

It was not a stunt. A stunt is designed to show off. This was to highlight the hypocrisy. This was me saying, You dont want to discuss banning the burka, but then you are screaming at me to take it off? You cant have it both ways. 

Its certainly a provocative way to spark debate about an issue that is already a global concern.

Across the world, some 23 countries have banned the burka to some degree. In 2010, France passed a law banning the full-face veil in public places, but there are also restrictions in place in Austria, Denmark and the Netherlands.

Even several Muslim-majority countries have restrictions, mostly driven by security or administrative concerns.

Why cant it even be debated in Australia? Its political correctness and wokeness that mean you cant call things out for what they are, she says. Her argument is simple. The wearing of the burka is not a religious requirement and is ultimately divisive. It causes security and administrative headaches. Why should you have to take a helmet off to go into a bank and yet . . ?.

Hanson was suspended from the Senate for seven days for her burka-wearing stunt in the Senate

But her key point today is that it is fundamentally anti-women.

Ive also done it to prove a point that women are being oppressed by the men who are forcing them to wear it. Womens rights are being stripped away from them. Everyone here  the Greens, Labour  are screaming for womens rights, domestic violence, same pay, superannuation, all these issues, and yet they wont stand up for women who are forced to wear a burka by men.

How did a female politician whose career has been built on an anti-immigration message even come to have a burka handy? Hanson explains that she had a member of staff order hers online eight years ago just before she carried out a similar parliamentary protest. That one was planned. I wore black pants under it.

It caused similar outrage but, afterwards, the burka was bundled away in a wardrobe in her office.

When she was thwarted over her proposed Bill this week, she saw red  and black. I have these moments, an epiphany, and it just came to me: Ill put it on. Because it wasnt planned, I just had my everyday clothes underneath.

Frankly, she looked almost comical stumbling her way through the chamber, but what did it feel like, under there? Its horrible. It really is terrible. I was struggling to see where I was going. Its like this facade you are behind, completely hidden. No one can see your facial expressions.

Nor could she see the horror on her colleagues faces but she doesnt care about that because there is no love lost there.

Everyone is supposed to be treated the same in Australia, regardless of race. Its pretty unheard of to stop a senator from moving their private members Bill, but they stopped me because they dont like me. They dont like my politics. I dont particularly like them either. But shutting me down isnt democratic. Its not giving the people a voice.

Senator Hanson pictured outside Parliament House in Canberra on Wednesday

She was not always a fearless battleaxe of a woman, she says. She has been married twice, has two children from each marriage, and claims today that she experienced domestic violence in her second marriage. I was not the person I am today, she points out.

Today, she takes no prisoners. Her political stance brought her death threats in the early days. Her daughter Lee also had a death threat when she was 13, and it was taken seriously enough for Lee to have to move from the family home into hiding for a while.

She founded Pauline Hansons One Nation party in 1997. It was very much a one-woman show. She set out her wares: anti-immigration, scepticism of multiculturalism, standing-up for what she calls ordinary Australians and a traditional Australia rooted in Anglo-Celtic history.

She has British roots herself. Her paternal grandparents emigrated from London and Wiltshire; her maternal grandparents were born in Ireland.

One Nation used to be a minnow of a party, and still is to a degree, but its influence is growing. In the 2025 election, it doubled its representation in the Senate and now holds four seats, putting it on a par with some of the traditional smaller parties. The polls have recorded a surge recently, attributed to voter disillusionment over issues such as immigration and net zero. So parallels with the Reform Party here. And yes, Hanson knows Nigel Farage.

Ive met Nigel when he came here, and we had dinner at a function recently in the States.

Are you happy with the comparison? Why wouldnt I be? Im not embarrassed by that. They also call me the Trump of Australia. We are on the same lines, same page.

And yet she stands by the sentiment and by the idea that the immigration issue is worse in the UK. You are in a bad space in the UK, you really are, she says. Were only about five years behind you. Whats happening with your flags, with your refugees being put into hotels paid for by the Government? The same thing is happening here and Australians are fed up with it  this losing your country.

Hanson was suspended while campaigning for the passage of a bill banning the Islamic garment

We get into quite the conversation about feminism. Some online trolls said she looked better with a burka on. Was she bothered? No. I dont care what the ratbags say. Does she always wear heels? Is it a power thing? No, I like to look smart and why would I finish that with flatties? I like to dress up. She rolls her eyes when I say that some say heels are a symbol of the patriarchy, a mans idea of what a woman should wear.

I dont please anyone but myself, she says. But cant you understand that some women say the same thing about wearing a burka? Their body; their choice?

Fine. Go and find yourselves a country where you will fit in very nicely with the laws and everything that is happening in that country. Australia is a country that is about assimilation, she says, not for turning.

One of her political heroines is Margaret Thatcher, who didnt much care what people thought about her either. I have a lot of respect for her, and for a lot of the things she tried to do. And she was a strong woman. People want leaders with conviction. Her critics say that Hanson is an irrelevance, even in Australia, but her latest stunt has made her  and her message  hard to ignore.

She reminds me that the message is not new. Ive been saying the same thing for 20 years.

Whats heartening is that people who used to oppose me are coming up to me now and saying You were right.
A politician named after Adolf Hitler has secured a fifth term in office.

Adolf Hitler Uunona went viral during Namibias local elections in 2020 where he won by a landslide. And he retained his seat this week with another huge majority.

Mr Uunona, 59, ran for the role of district administrator in the Ompundja region.

The politician, who has been in power since 2004, said: My father named me after this man. He probably didnt understand what Adolf Hitler stood for.

As a child I saw it as a totally normal name. Only as I grew up did I understand that this man wanted to conquer the whole world.

Mr Uunona said his wife called him Adolf, adding that he usually goes by Adolf Uunona.

His name was abbreviated to Adolf H in a list of candidates printed in a government gazette.

Adolf Hitler Uunona, 59, has been district administrator in the Ompundja region on Namibia since 2004

Adolf Hitler, who the politician shares a name with, of the Nazi party is seen in Germany in 1935

The fact I have this name does not mean I want to conquer Oshana, he said, referring to the region where he won the election in 2020.

It doesnt mean Im striving for world domination.

But following his latest election win, Mr Uunona said he has officially changed his name due to the unwanted attention.

He said: My name is not Adolf Hitler, I am Adolf Uunona.

I have seen in the past people calling me Adolf Hitler and trying to associate me with someone I do not even know.

Once known as German South West Africa, Namibia was a German colony from 1884 until the empire was stripped of its possessions following the First World War .

Namibia is still home to a small German-speaking community and some people still have German names.
Police have launched a probe after a man was attacked at a hotel that has been used to house asylum seekers in Aberdeen.

The incident took place at around 10.45am yesterday at the Hampton by Hilton hotel in Westhill, which has been used to house asylum seekers since 2023.

A 26-year-old male sustained facial injuries following the incident.

Three men have been arrested in connection with the report of an assault and a weapon was recovered from the scene.

Police Scotland said there is no wider risk to the public and remain at the hotel, while enquiries are ongoing.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: 'Officers were called to a premises in the Gordon Park area of Westhill, Aberdeenshire, at around 10.45am on Friday, 28 November, 2025 following a report of an assault.

'A 26-year-old man was assaulted by a group of men and suffered a facial injury as a result. A weapon has been recovered from the scene.

'Three men have been arrested in connection with the incident and enquiries remain ongoing. 'The incident is believed to be contained and there is no wider risk to the public.'

Police have launched a probe after a man was attacked at a hotel that has been used to house asylum seekers in Aberdeen. Pictured: Men sit on the ground at one of the migrant hotels in Aberdeen

The incident took place at around 10.45am yesterday at the Hampton by Hilton hotel in Westfield (pictured), which has been used to house asylum seekers since 2023

Andrew Bowie MP for West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine said: 'This is very troubling. I've been in touch with the Police over security arrangements at the hotel in the past and will revisit this on behalf of the community.

'Now the most important thing is that they get the time and space to investigate this incident.'

Several protests by anti-immigration groups have been with counter-protests in recent months.

A Home Office spokesperson said: 'This is a horrific incident and our thoughts go out to those affected. Violence in asylum seeker accommodation is not acceptable and any perpetrators will face the full force of the law.

'The safety and wellbeing of all asylum seekers remain a priority for the Home Office, and we are committed to ensuring they receive the support and protection they need.'
The veteran ITV News at Ten presenter Sandy Gall has left behind a huge sum of money to his children in his will.

Gall, whose career spanned over 50 years, died at his home in Kent aged 97 in July this year.

Now, the contents of his will have been revealed where he left a small fortune to his four children - which includes his daughter Carlotta who followed in his footsteps to become a legendary foreign correspondent - whom she shared with his wife Eleanor.

The will leaves his entire estate to his son and three daughters which at the time of his death was worth 632,749.

Following deductions it's now worth a respectable 331,303.

In a tribute, at the time of his death, his family said: 'His was a great life, generously and courageously lived.'

His daughter Carlotta said that she was 'very sad but proud'.

Working at the Aberdeen Press and Journal and Reuters before joining ITN, he covered everything from the Suez Crisis in 1956 to the Lockerbie bombing in 1988.

Sandy Gall, whose career spanned over 50 years, died at his home in Kent aged 97 in July this year

Gall in Afghanistan in 1996. Gall presented News at Ten from 1970 to 1991

He worked at the foreign news agency as a correspondent for a decade, with one of his first assignments to cover the assassination of President Kennedy in Dallas, Texas in 1963.

While working on the ground for ITN was one of the few journalists to remain in Vietnam after the fall of Saigon, having watched the first American marines go ashore at Da Nang, filing pictures from inside a helicopter gunship.

Then the country's most-watched programme, Gall presented News at Ten from 1970 to 1991.

In this time he was regularly paired with enigmatic Reginald Bosanquet.

He continued to work as a special reporter before finally retiring in 1992.

Gall then continued to work, setting up Sandy Gall's Afghanistan Appeal to treat people from the war-ravaged nation. The charity was run by his wife and two of his daughters.

The work was inspired by his time reporting in the Middle East, where he witnessed the horrors of battles including the Gulf War in 1991.

Gall was born in 1927 in Penang, Malaya - which is now known as Malaysia.

His Scottish father managed a rubber plantation, and the family returned home to Britain when he was four.

In recognition of his journalism, Gall received a CBE in 1987 and a Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George in 2011 (pictured)

After leaving university in 1953, he joined Reuters, where he reported from across the world - and even spent time in a Ugandan prison death cell during the civil war.

He moved to ITN in 1963, where he characteristically demanded more funds to help with his coverage. During his coverage in Asia, the broadcaster cabled him to say 'You are supposed to be reporting Vietnam, not buying it.'

Gall's wife Eleanor died in 2018.

In recognition of his journalism, Gall received a CBE in 1987 and a Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George in 2011.
Donald Trump has revoked every executive order Joe Biden signed with an autopen - escalating the battle over the legitimacy of the ailing ex-president's administration.

'I am hereby canceling all executive orders, and anything else that was not directly signed by Crooked Joe Biden, because the people who operated the autopen did so illegally,' Trump wrote on Truth Social on Friday.

'Joe Biden was not involved in the autopen process and, if he says he was, he will be brought up on charges of perjury.'

Presidents may legally undo executive orders signed by their predecessors, including pardons, however there is no legal mechanism to retract clemency after it is granted.

Biden signed 162 executive orders during his tenure.

Among the most controversial were the autopen-signed pardons of Dr. Anthony Fauci, General Mark Milley, and members of the January 6 committee.

Biden also pardoned family members - James B. Biden, Sara Jones Biden, Valerie Biden Owens, John T. Owens, and Francis W. Biden - on his last full day in office.

The Democrat's only hand-signed pardon during his final months in office was also his most pivotal - the order signed for his recovering cocaine-addict son, Hunter.

An image of an autopen signing former U.S. President Joe Biden's signature is displayed in place of a portrait Biden next to portraits of U.S President Donald Trump at the 'Presidential Walk of Fame' along the Colonnade at the White House

The 83-year-old claims he personally authorized every single pardon and commutation where the autopen was used.

The device, which has been used by Republican and Democratic presidents including Trump, replicates signatures.

Trump says he only uses the autopen to sign insignificant papers and that it should not be used for important orders, such as pardons.

The president has frequently called into question the legitimacy of the orders, citing Biden's declining cognitive health and reports that senior White House aides frequently made executive decisions on his behalf.

The Republican-led House Oversight Committee last month asked the Justice Department to carry out a review of every single executive order made by Biden.

It released a lengthy report which described a deeply 'flawed process', akin to a 'presidential pardon game of telephone' used in the Biden White House.

'The Committee has found that President Biden's aides coordinated a cover-up of the president's diminishing faculties,' it said.

The GOP report shed light on the never-before-exposed chain of command, which appears to have relied heavily on secondary and tertiary information passed along by decision makers who were not even present in certain meetings.

Joe Biden in Nantucket with his family on Thanksgiving

Hunter Biden and his wife Melissa Cohen are spotted in Nantucket on Thanksgiving

Investigators describe the structure as 'lax', and the instances of the 'clemency actions taken in the final days of the Biden presidency' are called the 'most flagrant.'

One particular instance laid out in the report highlights ex-White House Chief of Staff Jeff Zients admitting that not all decisions made by the president were formally documented.

The pardons of Biden family members in the final days of the administration were communicated 'second-hand' to a Zients aide, Rosa Po, who informed Zients about the pardons.

He then 'verbally authorized the use of the autopen from home' without knowing who actually executed the signatures.

Acting through his aide's email, Zients approved the autopen's use for the clemency actions without confirming with Biden that those were in fact his wishes.

Due to concerns about the president's mental state and the opaque approval process, the committee has deemed all autopen-signed executive actions without direct written presidential consent to be invalid.

Attorney General Pam Bondi said in October that her team was 'reviewing the Biden administration's reported use of autopen for pardons.'
A gut-wrenching image captured the moment law enforcement officials rushed to help the Virginia National Guard members who were shot in the horrifying Washington DC 'terror attack.'

The picture, taken by CBS and seen in the news broadcast below, showed the harrowing aftermath of the Wednesday shooting near the White House.

Police officers were seen running to the aid of the fallen soldiers, Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and Air Force Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, 24.

The victims were unconscious on the ground after they were gunned down, and law enforcement officials bravely performed CPR until the ambulance arrived.

While both victims were rushed to the hospital in critical condition, Beckstrom, who was shot in the head, tragically died from her severe injuries on Thanksgiving. Wolfe remains fighting for his life as of Friday.

The soldiers were ambushed on Wednesday while on patrol as part of President Donald Trump's ongoing effort to clean up the streets of DC.

Afghan soldier Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, was named as the alleged gunman in the shooting. He entered the US in 2021 under Joe Biden's administration.

He allegedly fired at the National Guard soldiers just 800 yards from the White House and only stopped when a National Guard member intervened by shooting back.

Following the attack security efforts have been ramped up across the US capital.

National Guard members and police were seen in Washington DC on Friday, two days after two members were shot

Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and Air Force Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, 24,were shot

'Law enforcement agencies across Washington, DC, including the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), are working in close coordination with the National Guard to ensure the safety of our community,' an MPD spokesperson told The Hill on Friday.

'As we enter the holiday season, we encourage everyone to remain vigilant.'

Trump declared that he will 'permanently pause migration' from third-world countries and ordered a green card audit of 19 nations in response to the attack.

He also vowed to end all federal benefits for noncitizens, denaturalize migrants who undermine the US, and deport any foreign nationals deemed a security risk or 'non-compatible with Western Civilization.'

'I will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the US system to fully recover,' he wrote on Truth Social on Thursday night.

'Only REVERSE MIGRATION can fully cure this situation. Other than that, HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL, except those that hate, steal, murder, and destroy everything that America stands for - You wont be here for long!'

On Friday the Trump administration officially instructed the pause. USCIS asylum officers will now refrain from approving, denying or closing asylum applications that are received.

The Trump administration has blamed Wednesday's shooting on Biden's lax immigration policies.

Afghan soldier Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, was named as the suspected gunman in the Wednesday attack

A memorial was created to honor Beckstrom after she was killed in the shooting

'He was flown in by the Biden administration in September 2021, on those infamous flights that everybody was talking about. Nobody knew who was coming in,' Trump said of Lakanwal.

'His status was extended under legislation signed by President Biden, a disastrous president, the worst in our history.'

Late on Wednesday night, CIA Director John Ratcliffe told Fox News that Lakanwal had direct links to the CIA from his work alongside US Special Forces in Afghanistan.

'The Biden administration justified bringing the alleged shooter to the United States in September 2021 due to his prior work with the US government, including CIA,' Ratcliffe admitted.

He said his involvement with the CIA was 'as a member of a partner force in Kandahar, which ended shortly following the chaotic evacuation.'

Lakanwal was part of the elite paramilitary outfit that engaged in combat with the Taliban during the war in Afghanistan, often referred to as a 'death squad.'

Like President Trump, Ratcliffe slammed the former administration's 'disastrous' actions during the withdrawal from Afghanistan, which allowed unvetted foreigners to enter the US on temporary visas.

'The individual - and so many others - should have never been allowed to come here,' Ratcliffe said.

Trump announced Beckstrom's death on Thursday night, describing her as an 'incredible person' and 'outstanding in every way'

The National Guard was seen patrolling near the Lincoln Memorial in DC on Friday

'Our citizens and service members deserve far better than to endure the ongoing fallout from the Biden administration's catastrophic failures.'

Trump broke the heartbreaking news of Beckstrom's death on Thursday night during a Thanksgiving call with troops.

'Just seconds before I went on, right now, I heard that Sarah Beckstrom of West Virginia, one of the guardsmen that we were talking about, highly respected, young, magnificent person... outstanding in every way, she's just passed away,' he said.

'She's no longer with us. She's looking down on us right now. Her parents are with her. It's just happened. She was savagely attacked, she's dead.'

Lakanwal is facing first-degree murder and related charges, federal prosecutors announced.

He is in custody while hospitalized for the non-life-threatening wounds he sustained in the shootout.
Dramatic video has shown pro-Palestinian protesters storming a New York City store on one of the busiest shopping days of the year.

The footage showed dozens of protesters bursting into the Zara store on Fifth Avenue as police officers rushed to get them out.

The demonstrators were chanting: 'They fund the genocide, Free Palestine!' as stunned shoppers searching for Black Friday bargains looked on.

One protester was seen wearing a black-and-white keffiyeh scarf, a traditional Arab headdress that has become a symbol of Palestinian advocacy.

The protester also waved a Palestinian flag through the packed retail store, as others blew whistles and another blasted Zara as 'a genocidal company.'

The New York Police Department confirmed to Daily Mail that a 29-year-old man was arrested for trespassing, and three individuals were issued criminal summonses.

Protesters continued demonstrations into the early evening, marching down Fifth Avenue with signs, drums, and flags.

'While you're shopping, bombs are dropping,' protesters chanted down the popular shopping avenue.

Protesters were seen waving Palestinian flags down Fifth Avenue as some demonstrators stormed inside Zara

Protesters accused Zara of being a 'genocidal company' and urged shoppers not to purchase from the brand

The demonstration resulted in one arrest, and the NYPD confirmed that over 70 protesters arrived to urge a boycott on the biggest shopping day of the year

'No ICE. No KKK. No fascist USA,' another group chanted.

One sign read, 'Free Palestine, Save Gaza,' while another urged onlookers to 'Think before you buy.'

Another large orange sign read: 'Israel is killing children!'

Protesters marched with drums, flags, and chanted to free the war-torn region from bombs.

Demonstrators also gathered in front of the Microsoft store, chanting: 'Microsoft you can't hide. We charge you with genocide.'

'We will not be complicit in the exploitation of our neighbors, including children,' another chanted.

Most onlookers continued their shopping trips, but one furious man screamed at the protesters for being 'pieces of s***.'

'F*** you, you piece of s****s,' he yelled as one protester filmed.

The demonstrators used signs and chants to urge boycotts of major retail brands in support of Palestine

Protesters blew whistles and chanted 'Free Palestine' as officers were heard instructing the demonstrators to leave the store

Another onlooker in a long brown coat told the demonstrators to 'F*** off' and stormed across the street.

The protesters also demonstrated in front of the Apple Store on Fifth Avenue, across the street from Central Park.

A sidewalk vendor told the New York Daily News that she witnessed three people getting handcuffed by police during the protest.

'Anytime I ever see protests coming down the Fifth Ave., everybodys usually pretty decent. This was the first time Ive ever seen any arrests,' she said.

'They had drums, almost like a little band. They were playing music,' she added.

'And then something happened. Somebody started pushing. Cops were telling them they werent allowed on the property.'

The Palestinian BDS (Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions) National Committee called for a boycott of Zara products over the summer, accusing the major retailer of economic ties with Israel.

The committee cited Zara's decision to expand business into Tel Aviv by opening a store there at the start of the year.

Officers with the New York City Police Department broke up the protest and attempted to escort demonstrators out of Zara

One protester was seen wearing a black-and-white keffiyeh scarf, a traditional Arab headdress that has become a symbol for Palestinian advocacy

Protesters barged into the store with Palestinian flags as shoppers watched on in confusion

Zara previously came under fire when one of the brand's designers, Vanessa Perilman (left) was accused of making offensive comments to Palestinian model Qaher Harhash (right)

They also pointed to a controversy in 2021 when the brand's head designer, Vanessa Perilman, made anti-Palestinian remarks to a Palestinian model named Qaher Harhash online.

'Maybe if your people were educated then they wouldn't blow up the hospitals and schools that Israel helped to pay for in Gaza,' Perilman said to Harhash in a direct message on Instagram.

The company condemned Perliman's comments, issuing a statement at the time that read: 'Zara is a diverse company and we shall never tolerate discrimination of any kind.'

'We condemn these comments that do not reflect our core values of respect for one another, and we regret the offense that they have caused.'

Zara also came under fire in 2022 after it was reported that chairman Joey Schwebel hosted a campaign event with far-right politician Itamar Ben-Gvir.

Microsoft faced backlash in August when a media investigation by the Guardian, +927 Magazine, and Local Call reported that an Israeli military intelligence unit was using the company's cloud services to store telephone communications of Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank.

Microsoft then announced in September that specific Israeli military subscriptions and services were disabled.

Human Rights Watch wrote an open letter to Microsoft, calling on the company to re-examine its contracts with the Israeli military and other government authorities.

The Palestinian BDS (Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions) National Committee called for a boycott of Zara products over the summer (file photo)

Microsoft came under fire in August when a media investigation revealed an Israeli military intelligence unit was using the company's cloud services to store telephone communications of Palestinians (file photo)

'Microsoft will continue to be a company guided by principles and ethics. We will hold every decision, statement, and action to this standard. This is non-negotiable,' Brad Smith, Vice Chair & President of Microsoft, wrote in response to The Guardian's reporting.

The Daily Mail has reached out to Zara, Microsoft, and Apple for comment on Friday's protests.
As the poet and sage Matthew Arnold wrote, those who only half believe are doomed to hesitate and falter life away.

In the same tenor, Friday's findings on prostate cancer screening have an air of equivocation about them which could lead to a tragic, terminal outcome for men who develop this invisible killer.

The UK National Screening Committee recommended those with a known genetic risk should be screened every two years. But, to huge disappointment, it rejected wider testing on the grounds it is likely to cause more harm than good.

It suggested broad screening would lead to very high levels of overdiagnosis and to patients then being diverted into treatment and suffering needlessly from side-effects.

The Daily Mails End Needless Prostate Deaths campaign has tirelessly argued that, as far as this disease is concerned, knowledge is power.

Concerns raised by the committee can surely be alleviated by good medical advice. A positive screening result should be treated as a warning light and discussed carefully with doctors, not necessarily triggering a headlong rush to treatment.

The recommendations are not yet set in stone, and the charity Prostate Cancer UK said it remains as determined as ever to fight for a mass screening programme which could save thousands of mens lives.

Surely Wes Streeting, a kidney cancer survivor, believes utterly  not half-heartedly  in the pivotal importance of early diagnosis? The Health Secretary must not falter like Arnolds procrastinators, and should instead act decisively to ensure wider screening begins as soon as possible.

The UK National Screening Committee recommended those with a known genetic risk for prostate cancer should be screened every two years (file photo)

Labours endless lies

Even Labours staunchest supporters are becoming restless over the untruths peddled by Sir Keir Starmers Government.

In an excruciating television interview on Friday, Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson attempted to argue Labours manifesto did not commit to broadening workplace rules on unfair dismissal.

This was not the impression the document gave to everyone else who read it, including the partys trade union paymasters.

The transport union TSSA (proud to be affiliated to the Labour Party) condemned the very significant watering down of the new legislation.

Its general secretary said, aghast, that it was a breach of Labours manifesto commitment  one we do not support.

Meanwhile, Chancellor Rachel Reeves was accused of deliberately misleading the public and the financial markets.

The Treasurys own watchdog revealed she was told months ago there was, in fact, no shortfall in the public finances.

And instead of Reevess claimed black hole, she had more than 4billion in financial headroom.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves was accused of deliberately misleading the public and the financial markets in this week's Budget

Yet she carried on delivering grim warnings about the state of the Governments books, laying the blame on the Conservatives for years of economic mismanagement.

Thanks to the OBR we now know this to be an utter fiction. It was concocted as a cover for new taxes in order to fund Reevess blockbuster benefits rises.

In turn, these hand-outs will aim to shore up Labour parliamentary seats which are coming under threat from Reform, the Greens and rabidly pro-Gaza independents.

Now the City, the trade unions and every tax-burdened worker in Britain have a clear understanding that Labour does not tell the truth.

Can there be anyone at all left in the country who still believes and trusts this degenerate Government?
His runaway nephew Harry got 15 million for writing his memoirs  so how much more can ex-Prince Andrew expect for his? Thats the thought racing through publishers minds this week as the disgraced former duke packs his bags and prepares to vacate Royal Lodge.

While speculation is rife that Sarah Ferguson is preparing to break ranks and write a tell-all book, publishers agree that the far greater prize would be Andrews tale  with his anecdotes of growing up in the worlds most exclusive family, then throwing it all away though his fatal association with Jeffrey Epstein.

And why not?

Back in the 1950s Andrews great-uncle, the Duke of Windsor, shocked his family and the wider royal court by announcing he was writing his life-story.

Then, hot on his heels, his wife Wallis announced she, too, would give her version of events which led up to the Abdication  the greatest crisis to hit Britains royal family in centuries.

In each case, they were motivated equally by money  and revenge.

The dukes book, A Kings Story, was published in 1951, sending his brother King George VI into one of his famous gnashes, and making bitter enemies of previously loyal royal servants.

No royal has been treated so brutally by his own people since King Charles I was beheaded in 1649

Tom Bradby's interview with Prince Harry was broadcast two days before the royal's autobiography was published in January 2023

His former private secretary Sir Alan Lascelles seethed: If you knew what that man had taken out of the country [when he abdicated], you would know that he does not need money. He is in a royal trade union, and the trade union rules are against this kind of thing, He is the meanest royal there has ever been.

Writing about what had been, till then, a sacrosanct subject  the private life behind the royal public facade  was damaging to the Dukes reputation and more important, the royal familys, Lascelles said.

But Edward Windsor couldnt care less. Wounded by never being allowed to return to the country he once ruled, and beside himself with rage that the Duchess was never to be allowed the title of Her Royal Highness, he knew he couldnt be stopped from writing what he wanted.

Lascelles opined that the only way to stop him was to appeal to his better nature  but I am sorry to say that long experience has convinced me he has no such feelings when the interests of the Monarchy conflict with his own.

Fast-forward 70 years, and history is in danger of repeating itself. Unlike royal servants who are obliged to sign confidentiality agreements, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor faces no such obstacle  hes free to write what he likes.

If he likes. And all the indications are that hes not taking his ousting from his family home of more than 20 years with good grace. Renowned for his arrogance and self-belief, it would not take much for a publisher to get him to spill the beans.

But how many beans? And how much would he get for spilling them?

The dukes book, A Kings Story, was published in 1951, sending his brother King George VI into one of his famous gnashes,

Sir Alan Lascelles (seen here with Winston Churchill) his former private secretary Sir Alan Lascelles seethed: If you knew what that man had taken out of the country [when he abdicated], you would know that he does not need money

Obviously everyone wants the inside track on his time with Epstein, a publishing executive told me. That is the Holy Grail  no royal has been treated so brutally by his own people since King Charles I was beheaded in 1649, and hes clearly angry at the way hes been dumped. In those circumstances he might be prepared to talk, in broad terms, about his involvement with Epstein, simply to get his side of the story across.

But he has to be careful his words dont incriminate him. The Democrats in the US Congress have asked Andrew to appear before them, and now he no longer has royal immunity, hed have to tread very, very carefully.

But he must be dying to say something in order to salvage his professional reputation.

Even if Andrew resists that temptation, theres still a colossal amount he could tell. As Queen Elizabeths favourite son he would have plenty to say that we dont yet know about our legendary monarch. And plenty more to say about his big brother Charles, who stripped him of his honours.

The price for even that  without the detail on Epstein  will far outweigh Prince Harrys 15 million advance. One literary agent I spoke to this week told me: Were looking at maybe 25 million. With the right ghost-writer asking him the right questions, we could see the history of the House of Windsor completely rewritten with what he knows. Hes a time-bomb waiting to explode.

So will Andrew do it?

Such a deal would almost certainly send him into exile  the Sandringham house arranged for him, and the various financial deals still being put into place, would have to go. He has inheritance money enough to keep him comfortable for the rest of his life, but to a man used to jet-setting around the world and rubbing shoulders with potentates, 25 million might sound like chicken-feed.

Not so Fergie, whose income bracket never came close to matching her ex-husbands.

Sarah Ferguson was signing copies of her book, My Story in November 1996 which had poor reviews

Prince Harry was reportedly paid 15 million for his story

But shed have to do a deal with herself  to give up whatever housing arrangement the royals are working out for her, plus her income as mother of Queen Elizabeths grandchildren. I was told. In return  depending on how much shes prepared to reveal  she could still match Prince Harrys 15 million for her memoirs, maybe more.

Back in the 1950s A Kings Story earned the Duke of Windsor the equivalent of 12 million in todays money. The Duchesss memoir The Heart Has Its Reasons  a quote from the 17th century philosopher Blaise Pascal, arguing for heart-over-head when it comes to making decisions - earned the equivalent of 6m. What with the settlement from Buckingham Palace they got when they left England for good, it was enough for the duke and duchess to get by on.

Andrew was never King, but what he knows  and what hes prepared to tell  could well make the Abdication look like a teddy-bears picnic.

And Fergie, too, knows where the bodies are buried. Never will there have been a more stressful Christmas than the one ahead, as King Charles waits at Sandringham to discover the consequences of sending his brother and ex-sister in law out into the wilderness..
With a beaming smile and waves to well-wishers, the Princess of Wales looked the picture of elegance as she strolled into the Anna Freud centre on Thursday.

But beyond her usual poise and grace, the future queen made a very clever nod to her first visit to the children's mental health charity, which was almost a decade a go.

Kate's tailored check dress bore a strong resemblance to the Ralph Lauren shirt-dress she wore to the centre in September 2015.

The 43-year-old future queen, who is patron of the charity, returned to one of her favourite designers for the outing, selecting a knee-length number by Emilia Wickstead, which she previously wore to Harvard University during a trip to the US in 2022.

While the colour of the dresses differed, with this week's in shades of blue rather than black and white, they shared a number of common features, from a sharp collar and cinched waist to long sleeves and a knee-length skirt.

By evoking her very first visit to the charity during Thursday's outing, Kate subtly highlighted the length of her involvement with the organisation, reaffirming her commitment to children's causes.

The Princess's choice of US label Ralph Lauren in 2015 and New Zealand designer Emilia Wickstead this week equally reflected her longstanding preference for elegant, classic styling.

Her complexion now was no less radiant than it was 10 years ago, with the most obvious difference in her appearance being her noticeably blonder hair.

The Princess of Wales chose a houndstooth dress by Emilia Wickstead for her visit to Anna Freud

The Emilia Wickstead dress that she wore this morning bore a striking resemblance to a Ralph Lauren number she wore during her first visit to the charity back in September 2015

Kate's Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood has launched an initiative with Anna Freud to create a training curriculum for health visitors.

The scheme aims to help their work supporting the early social and emotional development of children.

Since 2016 she has been patron of the organisation which carries out evidence-based research and training on children, young people and families' mental health.

Kate began her visit to the institution's offices by meeting families who are working with Anna Freud and the Institute of Health Visitors to shape the new scheme.

Kate met with the organisation's chief executive Professor Eamon McCrory at the Anna Freud Centre near King's Cross to discuss its work with mental health.

She told a gathering of senior executives in the City of London that 'profitability' and making a 'positive impact' are not 'incompatible', at the summit hosted by her Royal Foundation to drive action and investment in the early years development of children.

Delivering the summit's opening speech, Kate told guests her passion for promoting early years, described in the past as her 'life's work', stemmed from the 'essential truth' that 'the love we feel in our earliest years fundamentally shapes who we become and how we thrive as adults'.

She went on to say: 'A loving home ultimately teaches us how to love and how to care, but every environment has the potential to shape our hearts.

The dresses both had a cinched waist and a sharp collar

'Every one of you interacts with your own environment; a home, a family, a business, a workforce, a community. These are the ecosystems that you yourselves help to weave.'

Earlier this week, the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood announced a major research project into how using digital devices impacts young children.

The 100,000 study aims to help families connect in the modern digital world - and it comes just weeks after Kate penned a heartfelt essay on the topic.

The research will examine how to reduce parent-child disruption caused by digital devices, otherwise known as 'technoference'.

Last month, Kate wrote an essay discussing the importance of connection in yesterday's digital landscape, which was published by the centre she set up in 2021.

The Princess of Wales' poignant article, titled The Power of Human Connection in a Distracted World, spoke of raising children in an increasingly digital and disconnected world.

Kate shares three children with Prince William: Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, nine, and Prince Louis, six.

The royal wrote: 'For babies and young children, the pull of screens will be even stronger than for older children and adults, the habits more deeply ingrained as they grow.

They equally featured long sleeves and a knee-length skirt

'Yet this is precisely the period when children should start developing the social and emotional skills that will serve them throughout life,' the mother-of-three added.

The Princess said the nation was currently 'raising a generation that may be more connected than any in history while simultaneously being more isolated, more lonely, and less equipped to form the warm, meaningful relationships that research tells us are the foundation of a healthy life.'

She urged parents to strive to be 'fully present with the people we care about', saying 'It means protecting sacred spaces for genuine connection: family dinners, conversations, moments of genuine eye contact and engaged listening.'

The new study will look at how to help parents build stronger connections in the early years of raising their kids, as well as finding a healthy balance with technology.
The Prince and Princess of Monaco took their children on a festive family outing to inaugurate the nation's Christmas lights last night.

Former Olympic swimmer Charlene, 47, and her husband Albert II, 67, dressed their 10-year-old twins Jacques and Gabriella in matching beige outfits, with the young princess sporting a designer Fendi poncho.

They pressed a button, officially igniting the city's illuminations from a large tree in the Market Square - Place du Marche La Condamine - with large crowds in attendance.

Also present were the mayor, Georges Marsan, and members of the Municipal Council, making the beginning of the country's year-end celebrations.

Doting on her daughter and son, Charlene, who was in a black and white hounds tooth print trench coat and leather boots for the winter weather, beamed and clapped at their efforts.

Elsewhere, Albert, who protected himself from the cold in a navy jacket, also smiled as he posed for photos with his family.

Earlier this month, Charlene was the picture of elegance in an all-white ensemble as she and her husband celebrated Monaco's National Day.

The glamorous royal certainly lived up to her title Her Serene Highness as she and Albert enjoyed morning mass at the Our Lady Immaculate Cathedral before being joined by their children to wave at crowds of wellwishers from the Palace balcony, dressed to the nines as they took in the festivities below.

The Prince and Princess of Monaco took their children on a festive family outing to inaugurate the nation's Christmas lights last night

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 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 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.

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.

Albert, 67, who protected himself from the cold in a navy jacket, also smiled as he posed for photos with his family

The children pressed a button, officially igniting the city's illuminations from a large tree in the Market Square - Place du Marche La Condamine - with large crowds in attendance

Doting on her daughter and son, Charlene, 47, who was in a black and white hounds tooth print trench coat and leather boots for the winter weather, beamed and clapped at their efforts

Former Olympic swimmer Charlene and her husband Albert dressed their 10-year-old twins Jacques and Gabriella in matching beige ensembles, with the young princess sporting a designer Fendi poncho

Also present were the mayor, Georges Marsan, and members of the Municipal Council, making the beginning of the country's year-end 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.
They're frequently seen sitting front row at fashion shows or rubbing shoulders with the A-list at exclusive events and parties.

And this week Princess Diana's twin nieces, Lady Amelia and Eliza Spencer, 33, managed to attend a very glitzy event - while supporting their cousin Prince William.

The sisters - who are the daughters of Charles Spencer, 9th Earl Spencer and Victoria Aitken - arrived at the 2025 Tusk Conservation Awards at London's The Savoy Hotel on Wednesday in matching little black dresses, both by luxury London fashion designer, Safiyaa.

William - who was there to present several awards honouring conservation efforts, including the eponymous Prince William Award for Conservation in Africa - was also supported by his cousin Zara Tindall, who likewise opted for a little black dress.

Zara, dressed in a 530 Narcissa mini dress was joined by her husband Mike Tindall for the night out.

Lady Eliza Spencer and Lady Amelia Spencer wore matching LBDs to the 2025 Tusk Conservation Awards

Amelia and Eliza's gowns both had embellished necklines

Zara Tindall was also at the awards, wearing a Rebecca Vallance mini dress

Eliza and Amelia's recent outing marked their third co-ordinated moment in days.

The twins often co-orindate their outits - and they did just that for their appearance at a two star-studded events in Qatar over the weekend.

The pair were pictured on the red carpet at the Fashion Trust Arabia 2025 Awards held at the National Museum of Qatar on November 22.

For the occasion, they wore complimentary embellished gowns from Lebanese fashion designer, Zuhair Murad.

Amelia stunned in dusty pink dress while her sister Eliza wore teal.

The twins both went all out with statement Chopard diamonds for the night.

'We are incredibly honoured to wear the beautiful @chopard jewellery tonight, paired with our breathtaking gowns by @zuhairmuradofficial' they wrote on Instagram.

'Its always inspiring to celebrate the next generation of creatives, and even more special to wear @zuhairmuradofficial as he is honoured with the Trailblazer Award for his incredible global impact.'

The twins were back on the red carpet again the next day with new matchy-matchy looks for the Franca Fund Gala 2025 at the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha.

William rubbed shoulders with many A-listers, including Ronnie Wood and John Cleese

Zara, dressed in a 530 Narcissa mini dress was joined by her husband Mike Tindall for the night out

Ceawlin Thynn, 8th Marquess of Bath and Emma Thynn were among the well-heeled guests

Mike Tindall was also sure to support his wife's cousin

Eliza and Amelia arrived for the gala on November 23 both wearing metallic gowns by Indian designer, Manish Malhotra, and once again decked out in Chopard jewellery.

The pair opened up about leaning into the 'twinning' fashion looks in an interview with W Magazine in June, explaining their style is 'incredibly similar'.

'It comes quite naturally to us since our style and taste are so incredibly similar,' Amelia told the outlet. 'In fact, we usually end up choosing the exact same looks.'

Speaking of their bond during the interview, Amelia added: 'Were quite shy people naturally, and having each other for such big moments like red carpets or campaigns - and just having my biggest, and I think Elizas biggest, support system there constantly - its so comforting.

'So its a safety net and empowering. We encourage each other. We know how each other is feeling. If ones not having the best day, we lift each other up, we work together.'
Princess Lilibet appears to have followed in the footsteps of her mother Meghan Markle with her love for stylish dressing.

Meghan and Prince Harry's young daughter, who was born in the US and lives in Montecito, was seen during a Thanksgiving outing this week alongside her parents and brother Prince Archie, six.

Though her face was kept out of the photos, Lili, four, was seen with her bright red hair neatly pulled back into a plait for a volunteering visit to a community kitchen.

She wore a festive red tartan 'Taffeta Party' dress from sustainable brand Hope & Henry, complete with a black bow and ruffled short sleeves, which was reduced from 38 to 26.

The dress has since sold out, prompting comparisons between Lili and her mother, who has previously spoken about how brands she wears get a sales boost after she's seen in them.

The Duchess of Sussex has been building her investment portfolio since she left the Firm with Prince Harry in 2020, and has put money into five to ten brands - including handbag label Cesta Collective, whose designs she's sported on multiple occasions.

Like the Princess of Wales's 'Kate Effect', which sees her outfits sell out within minutes of being seen, Meghan's wardrobe also holds influential power. On one engagement in 2018, her bag from the Scottish brand Strathberry sold out 11 minutes after Meghan was seen proudly sporting it on an engagement with Harry.

Royal fans were quick to make comparisons, with one taking to social media to write: 'Like mother like daughter,' while others claimed it marked the start of 'The Lilibet Effect'.

Princess Lilibet appears to have followed in the footsteps of her mother Meghan Markle with her love of stylish dressing

Another wrote: 'Meg done passed her power down to them babies. Welcome to the Lili Diana effect y'all! IKTR.'

A third person said: 'If I had a daughter Id buy it too. Adorable!!'

The dress is still available to buy on third-party sites, such as Amazon, and appears to still be in stock in other colours at the time of writing.

The dresses, shoes and even sunglasses worn by Princess Charlotte, 10, also often sell out, similar to her mother's Kate effect.

For example, her 39 Rachel Riley dress sold out in less than 24 hours after she made a surprise appearance at the Commonwealth Games in 2022.

Classic, understated and age-appropriate, Charlotte's wardrobe is filled with floral dresses from Spanish brands, cardigans and buckled shoes from Papouelli, a label which has experienced world-wide interest since the princess appeared in them around the time of the Coronation.

Charlotte also wears simple plimsolls from Trotters, the cult London childrenswear shop in Chelsea. Breton stripes are a favourite print.

Interest in the young princesss clothes and accessories began before she was even one day old.

Though her face was kept out of the photos, Lili, four, was seen with her bright red hair neatly pulled back into a plait

She wore a festive red tartan 'Taffeta Party' dress from sustainable brand Hope & Henry

Minutes after she had appeared on the steps of the Lindo Wing at St Mary's, Paddington, the baby's GH Hurt & Son shawl had attracted 100,000 visitors to their website from more than 183 countries.

It's not known if Lilibet has ever met her cousin, Charlotte, 10.

Earlier this week, Meghan shared a video montage from the day at Our Big Kitchen where the royals, as part of the Archewell Foundation initiative, helped bake cookies, slice vegetables and package meals for people in Los Angeles experiencing food insecurity.

The photos showed Lili's long red hair - the very same shade as her father's - braided beneath a hat.

'How I love Lilis hair colour!' one person wrote on X.

Meghan and Harry have shared rare glimpses of their children over the years - both of whom have red hair.

Archie and Lilibet recently featured in a video posted to Meghan's Instagram grid on October 26 from a family weekend carving pumpkins.

Harry and Meghan brought their two kids along to volunteer at the community kitchen

Harry with his daughter Lilibet in a photo posted by Meghan for Lilibet's birthday

Earlier that month, Meghan marked International Day of the Girl on October 11 with a heartwarming photo of her and daughter holding hands, as well as a short clip of Lilibet running on the lawn outside.

'To all the girls - this world is yours. Do everything you can to protect your rights, use your voice, support each other. We will do the same for you. It's your right and our responsibility. Go get 'em girl,' the Duchess of Sussex penned on Instagram.

Lilibet turned four in June. which Meghan marked on social media with a recent photo Harry and their daughter holding hands and another of him holding Lilibet as a newborn.

'The sweetest bond to watch unfold,' Meghan wrote. 'Daddy's little girl and favourite adventurer.'
Your next facial could have a delicious twist, as scientists are looking to turn potato waste into 'skincare gold'.

As unlikely as it sounds, scientists say that potato shaws  the aboveground stems and leaves of a potato plant, traditionally discarded after harvest  contain key ingredients for cosmetics and makeup.

This includes solanesol  a compound vital for producing coenzyme Q10  and vitamin K2.

Q10 is an antioxidant that plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy, youthfullooking skin, which is often used in serums and moisturisers.

Meanwhile, vitamin K2 has been linked to collagen and calcium metabolism, and is usually sold in tablet form.

Cosmetic companies currently source solanesol mainly from tobacco plants.

However, demand for this ingredient has risen exponentially in recent decades.

If successful, the project, led by the University of Aberdeen, could mean the likes of moisturisers and face masks could include ingredients sourced from spuds.

Potato shaws are the aboveground stems and leaves of a potato plant, which are traditionally discarded after harvest (file image)

Researchers are looking to turn potato waste into 'skincare gold' that can be used in cosmetics. Pictured: Harvesting seed potatoes in Scotland

Previous studies have already hinted at the skincare potential of the humble potato.

One paper, published in 2019, found that treating skin with potato peel extract significantly increased the expression of collagen  a protein that causes wrinkles and sagging when depleted.

'These results suggest that potato peel extract could be a novel and effective antiaging material,' the researchers concluded.

Potatoes are also a popular DIY skincare ingredient for concerns like hyperpigmentation, dark circles and acne.

The humble spud has even been said to help smooth away crows' feet when applied mashed and mixed with lemon juice.

Actress Olivia Munn has previously revealed she eats Japanese sweet potatoes in order to keep her skin looking young.

Sweet potato contains betocarotene, a nutrient the body immediately converts into vitamin A which protects skin from harmful UV rays and other environmental stressors.

It is also rich in vitamins C and E which boost the production of collagen, tightening skin and infusing it with a bright, healthy glow.

Q10 is already used in a range of cosmetic products, including this day cream from Nivea. It is an antioxidant that plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy, youthfullooking skin

Bizarre skincare ingredients already in use Placenta

Semen

Bird poop

Sheep sebum

Marijuana

Bee venom

Goat milk

Fish scales

Tree sap Advertisement

The researchers say their initiative could create new income streams for Scottish farmers while reducing agricultural waste.

With 12,800 hectares of seed potatoes grown in Scotland, the industry could yield up to 120 tonnes of solanesol per year.

Grampian Growers, a farmerowned cooperative based on the east coast of Scotland, said the project is 'particularly significant' for the potato industry.

Professor Heather Wilson, Chair in Immunology, at University of Aberdeen, added: 'Exploring the quality and yield of solanesol extracted from locally sourced potato shawsand evaluating its potential applications across the cosmeceutical and related industries represents an exciting and impactful area of research.'

Some skincare brands already use bizarre ingredients in their products  including placenta.

Snail slime, bird poop, sheep sebum and marijuana have also made into lotions and eye creams.

Scientists also recently discovered 'natural Botox' in bee venom that can deage the face in less than a month.

The compound's key component, the melittin peptide, has been shown to trigger the skin's natural repair mechanisms by mimicking a controlled injury  prompting increased production of collagen, elastic fibres and hyaluronic acid.

Earlier this year, high street brand Boots launched a new TikTokinspired range featuring 'trending ingredients' such as lion's mane, ashwaganda and sea moss.

The range, called HABI, features a mix of ingredients that promise to boost energy, provide calm or help people 'get in the zone and going with the flow'.

One is lion's mane  a large, white, shaggy medicinal mushroom. It contains bioactive substances that are thought to have beneficial effects on the body  especially the brain, heart and gut.

Ashwagandha, meanwhile, is an evergreen shrub that grows in Asia and Africa.

The roots and leaves of the plant have been turned into powders or extracts and used in traditional medicine for centuries and it is commonly promoted for stress and anxiety reduction.
A study reveals how the Temple of Venus has stood the test of time  and it suggests the Romans were even more clever than we gave them credit.

The stunning octagonal structure at Baiae near Naples, southern Italy, has stood for nearly 2,000 years in a geologically active area.

Built to the orders of Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century, it features a great hall that served as a thermal building within a large complex of public baths.

Scientists at the University of Naples Federico II have analysed samples around the structure's base to uncover what has made it so long-lasting.

They found the Romans deliberately added volcanic materials as they knew it would make the 80ft-wide-building more durable.

Roman builders selected different volcanic materials depending on the structural requirement, according to study author Dr Concetta Rispoli.

'The temple has remained standing because its geomaterials behave almost like a natural rock,' she told the Daily Mail.

'Instead of weakening, the materials continue to lock together and consolidate as they age.'

The stunning octagonal structure at Baiae near Naples, southern Italy has stood for nearly 2,000 years in a geologically active area

Commissioned by Emperor Hadrian, it was the grand bathing pool of Baiae's imperial thermal complex. It features an octagonal exterior plan that becomes circular on the inside

The temple is in a remarkable state of preservation despite being nearly 2,000 years old and in the Phlegraean Fields, a volcanic region affected by 'bradyseism'  the slow rising and sinking of Earth's surface caused by volcanic activity.

Mysteriously, the material used to build the Temple of Venus in Naples has endured even as Earth's surface around it sank.

Steady ground movement has lowered the temple to roughly 20 feet (six metres) below today's surface; however, while the ground has moved, the structure has remained 'remarkably stable'.

For the study, the team collected nine samples from the Temple of Venus, including mortar, bricks and several types of volcanic stone.

They also collected efflorescence  the white, powdery deposits of soluble salts that form on the surface of bricks and other materials.

They examined samples under powerful microscopes and X-rays to identify each material's structure and texture specific chemical ingredients.

According to the findings, the bricks and mortars were lime-based materials mixed with volcanic particles  likely an intentional addition by the Romans.

'In simple terms, the Romans built this monument using materials that react together and become stronger over time,' Dr Rispoli told the Daily Mail.

This sketch of the Temple of Venus shows the location of some of the nine probed samples

Pictured, polarized light microphotographs bedding mortars used in the creation of the Temple of Venus by the Romans

What is the Temple of Venus? The Temple of Venus is a Roman structure at Baiae near Naples, southern Italy. Commissioned by Emperor Hadrian, it was the grand bathing pool of Baiae's imperial thermal complex. It features an octagonal exterior plan that becomes circular on the inside. Its size and structural elegance have intrigued travellers and designers for centuries, along with its resilience. It stands in the Phlegraean Fields, a region shaped by both volcanism and bradyseism - the slow rising and sinking of Earth's surface caused by volcanic activity. Advertisement

She continued: 'The key element is the use of local volcanic materials from the Phlegraean Fields.

'When these volcanic components were mixed with lime, they triggered a chemical reaction that gradually formed new minerals inside the mortar.

'This process made the structure remarkably solid and resistant to water, humidity and ground movements.'

The academic pointed to one kind of volcanic ash known as pozzolana, which was 'was far more than a simple filler'.

'When mixed with lime, pozzolana produced chemical reactions that created a dense, long-lasting mortar, she told the Daily Mail.

'This technology allowed the Romans to build large, stable structures even in an active volcanic landscape.

The team also found evidence that the scoria, a lightweight volcanic rock often used in landscaping and construction, was imported from the Vesuvian region slightly further east where one of the most famous and deadly volcanic eruptions took place in the 1st century.

'Very light scoria was used in the upper parts of the building to reduce weight, while stronger volcanic tuffs and lavas were placed in supporting areas,' Dr Rispoli added.

The structure was named the Temple of Venus - after the discovery of a statue of the Roman goddess of love and desire in 1595

'This careful material selection is one of the reasons the monument is still standing after nearly two thousand years.'

Despite the name, the building was not a temple in the religious sense.

The academic explained: 'The so-called Temple of Venus was actually the "natatio", the large swimming hall of the imperial bath complex at Baiae.

'It was part of a much larger thermal and residential complex used for bathing, social activities and medical treatments.

'The association with Venus comes from a statue found there in 1595, but the building itself was designed as part of the baths, not as a place of worship.'

The study provides further insights into the 'technical skills achieved by the ancient Romans, and how their production technology was aimed at innovation, quality, sustainability, durability and, not least, beauty'.

'From an architectural perspective, the Romans inspired many populations, both past and present,' Dr Rispoli and colleagues say in their study published in Geoheritage.

'Their ability to build monuments starting from simple geological materials and obtaining more complex ones that would last over time has been, and still is, object of interest for researchers.'

Famously, the Romans founded one of the greatest empires in history, conquering the Mediterranean area and half of Europe.

The sign of their expansive influence and dominance can be seen through buildings, roads, aqueducts, temples and monuments.
Archaeologists have proven the existence of a lost ring of pits near Stonehenge, and say it could be Britain's largest prehistoric structure.

The ring of more than 20 pits, some of which are 10 metres deep and five metres wide, extends in an arc more than a mile across.

At their centre are the ancient sites of Durrington Walls and Woodhenge, 1.8 miles (2.9 kilometres) northeast of Stonehenge, where the henge builders held ritual feasts.

Using an array of novel scientific techniques, researchers now say that these pits were likely constructed by Neolithic people around 4,500 years ago.

Researchers say that carving the pits into Wiltshire's chalky ground would have taken an enormous amount of planning and effort.

Lead researcher Professor Vincent Gaffney, of the University of Bradford, told the Daily Mail that the vast structure was a 'cosmological statement'.

He says: 'They link Durrington walls henge and another site at Larkhill  a causewayed enclosure about a thousand years earlier. '

'And in doing so, inscribed a boundary into the landscape  setting aside an area of special significance.'

Scientists have proven the existence of a lost ring of pits nearby Stonehenge, which is likely the UK's largest prehistoric monument

The pits surround ancient sites of Durrington Walls and Woodhenge, 1.8 miles (2.9 kilometres) northeast of Stonehenge (pictured). These sites are believed to be where the Stonehenge builders held ritual feasts

The pits surrounding Durrington Walls were first found in 2020, and were immediately hailed as one of Britain's most impressive ancient sites.

The discovery of the pit circle appeared to further cement the Salisbury Plane's reputation as a uniquely important religious site for Britain's Neolithic people.

This area is not only home to Stonehenge, but also a wider series of interconnected ceremonial structures, stone circles, and cemeteries from the Stone Age.

Durrington Walls, which sits at the epicentre of the pit circle, is a 'superhenge' that is believed to be the largest anywhere in the UK.

Likewise, the nearby 'Woodhenge' was an enormous timber monument built around 2500 BC, consisting of six concentric rings of posts of varying size forming an oval monument 40 metres across.

However, scientists have questioned whether the pits were really dug by humans or whether they might have been natural features of the landscape.

In a new research paper, titled 'The Perils of Pits', Professor Gaffney and his coauthors present a new batch of scientific evidence to prove the pits' human origins.

Since no one technique could answer all of their questions, the researchers deployed an array of techniques to work out the exact structure of the pits.

Your browser does not support iframes.

The pits encircle the ancient sites of Durrington Walls and Woodhenge. Woodhenge was an enormous timber monument built around 2500 BC, consisting of six concentric rings of posts of varying size forming an oval monument 40 metres across. Pictured: Stone pillars marking the locations of Woodhenge's timber posts

Scientists had questioned whether the pits were really manmade. So scientists used an array of scientific tests to work out their exact shape and structure

First, they used a technique called electrical resistance tomography, which measures changes in electrical resistance at the surface to work out the size of underground structures.

Then, radar and magnetic imaging were used to assess their depth and shape.

'This in itself did not prove these features to be manmade,' says Professor Gaffney.

'So sediment cores were extracted and an array of techniques, including novel geochemistry, were used to characterise the nature of the soils.'

'Optically stimulated luminescence' was used to work out the last time that the soils were exposed to the sun, and 'sedDNA' to extract plant and animal DNA directly from the dirt.

This revealed that each pit had the same pattern of repeating layers, starting in the late Neolithic period  something that would be extremely unlikely to happen naturally.

These techniques also identified the DNA of sheep and cattle, which suggests that the pit circle was being occupied and farmed at the time.

Professor Gaffney says: 'It confirms that this structure  probably the largest prehistoric monument in Britain at least  is a purposefully constructed monument in a landscape which is itself exceptional.'

The researchers used a technique called electrical resistance tomography, which measures changes in electrical resistance at the surface to work out the size of underground structures (illustrated)

The researchers found that the pits had a consistent pattern of layers and even contained DNA of cattle and sheep. This suggests that they were deliberately built by humans

By showing that these vast pits were carved by humans, the researchers have shown that Britain's ancient people were much more organised than had previously been believed.

'The size of the structure demonstrates the society they lived in was capable of planning and motivating large numbers of people for religious purposes,' says Professor Gaffney.

The pit circle is so large that you cannot see across to the other side, but still traces a nearperfect circle around Durrington Walls.

This regularity suggests that the pits must have been laid out by pacing, which implies that the people of ancient Britain had a numerical system for counting.

If true, this could be some of the very earliest evidence for the ability to count in Neolithic Britain.

However, Professor Gaffney says we will 'probably not' ever know exactly why these pits were built.
Apple has injected fans with a 'heartwarming' dose of authentic festive cheer with its new Christmas advert.

And it's managed to do so without relying on artificial intelligence (AI).

Entitled 'A Critter Carol', the twominute clip features two hikers walking through a wonderful wintery woodland before one unknowingly drops his iPhone.

As they walk away, some Muppetlike critters find the phone and film themselves performing the Flight of the Conchords song 'Friends' before returning it to him.

Apple shot the film on an iPhone 17 Pro and had the animal models handcrafted  a far cry from CocaCola's advert released earlier this month made entirely with AI.

On X, fans have called it 'heartwarming', 'adorable', 'pure holiday magic' and an 'absolutely brilliant video'.

While one commented they 'love that this is hand made and not AI'.

Another person said: 'And that's how you make a lovely Holiday Spot without AI slop. @CocaCola can learn one or two things here. Happy holidays.'

Entitled 'A Critter Carol', the twominute clip features real models of woodland animals, including a racoon, a bear, an owl and a squirrel

Some Muppetslike critters find the iPhone and film themselves performing the Flight of the Conchords song 'Friends' before returning it to him

One person said: 'And that's how you make a lovely Holiday Spot without AI slop. @CocaCola can learn one or two things here. Happy holidays'

CEO Tim Cook posted the ad on X with the caption: 'Holiday cheer, a little bit of magic, and a whole lot of heart, captured on iPhone 17 Pro by a few handmade puppet friends!'

In response, someone said: 'Makes me realize how soulless most CGI is.'

Another posted: 'Just watched it honestly got a little dustyeyed by the end. The puppets, the song, all shot on iPhone... it's pure holiday magic. Well played, Apple.'

Apple shared an additional threeminute video giving a behindthescenes look into the making of the advert, which was directed by Australian filmmaker Mark Molloy.

It reveals an enormous set recreating the entire forest built three feet off the ground and lifesized models of the various animals, including a racoon, bear, squirrel and rabbit.

During filming, many of the larger animals were operated by men in blue bodysuits who were later digitally edited out.

The smaller models, meanwhile, were glove puppets worn by staff who were perched out of sight just below the set.

According to Molloy, he 'wanted to embrace the tactile nature of puppetry' and 'was really keen to go back to craftsmanship'.

During filming, many of the larger animals were operated by men in blue bodysuits who were later digitally edited out, while others were glove puppets

On X (Twitter), fans have called the ad 'heartwarming', 'pure holiday magic' and an 'absolutely brilliant video'

This user said: 'Just watched it honestly got a little dustyeyed by the end. The puppets, the song, all shot on iPhone... it's pure holiday magic. Well played, Apple'

Another said 'it feels like Apple quietly tipping its hat to the humans behind the screen'

How do you make an AI ad? CocaCola has worked with at least three AI studios  Secret Level, Silverside AI and Wild Card. It relied on 'generative' AI  where clever AI systems are trained on a large amount of data to generate new video, images, text and other content. It said the approach was an 'efficient' way of saving time and money  but critics pointed out the firm is not short of such luxuries. CocaCola reportedly has a net worth of more than $300 billion. Advertisement

'There's a reality to how we built these creatures but also how we brought them to life that is imperfect,' Molloy said.

'These animals take control, they take the iPhone 17 Pro and they go and tell a story with it.'

It's unclear how much the whole production cost; the trilliondollarcompany has been approached for comment.

But it was almost certainly more expensive than this year's Christmas commercial from CocaCola.

For many people around the world, CocaCola's muchloved 'Holidays are Coming' advert marks the beginning of Christmas.

First aired in 1995, the ad shows the soft drink giant's red delivery trucks emblazoned with lights making festive deliveries through a snowy landscape.

Ever since, variations of the promo have arrived in the weeks leading up to Christmas  but for the second year running CocaCola has used AI to make the whole thing.

Generally, the use of AI in advertising and the arts has proved a controversial move, as some critics feel it forces creative types out of work.

HolidAIs are coming: CocaCola has used artificial intelligence to reinvent its iconic Christmas advert in 2024 (pictured) and again this year

When its first AI Christmas ad was revealed last year, commentators called it 'garbage', 'ugly' and 'too niche', while calling the multibilliondollar corporation 'lazy'.

One X user posted: 'just saw an ai generated coca cola commercial on tv... genuinely how are we letting this happen.

'I feel like im watching the death of art and our planet unfold in front of my eyes and no one irl [in real life] seems to care.'

Meanwhile, this year's followup was called 'terrible', 'soulless' and 'the best ad I've ever seen for Pepsi'.

Not all of Apple's adverts have hit the mark though; in 2024 the company had to apologize for a 'tasteless' clip plugging its new iPad.

The oneminute video had a collection of artistic objects  including paints, books and musical instruments  being crushed by an industrial press.

One critic said: 'Ah, Apple providing the perfect metaphor for whats happening to the creative arts & humanities, and then mistakenly thinking its a good look for an advert.'
People across the US will be looking forward to digging into their Thanksgiving leftovers today  with many crafting their scraps into sandwiches.

But what makes the perfect Thanksgiving leftover sandwich?

Professor Charles Spence, Professor of Experimental Psychology at the University of Oxford, has revealed the secret formula.

Many of the ingredients will come as no surprise  including turkey, cranberry sauce, and sweet potatoes.

However, other additions are slightly more unusual.

According to Professor Spence, a zest of orange will help to take your sub to the next level.

Speaking to the Daily Mail, he advised: 'I would zest a little orange on top to enhance the aromatic notes in our sandwich.'

So, would you eat his perfectly formulated recipe?

Your browser does not support iframes.

As with any good sandwich, Professor Spence's recipe begins with bread  in this case, pumpkin seed slices.

While many people like to remove the crusts, the scientist advises against this.

'[Use] pumpkin seed slides of bread (crust on) so you keep seeded exterior, preferably a good orange colour,' he explained to the Daily Mail.

'Research suggests we like autumnal colours of the golden orange.'

Of course, the star of the show should be turkey.

And if possible, this should be leg meat rather than breast.

'The darker coloured leg meat has more flavour than breast,' Professor Spence explained.

For both acidity and colour, top the turkey with a 'healthy slathering' of cranberry sauce.

People across the US will be looking forward to digging into their Thanksgiving leftovers today  with many crafting their scraps into sandwiches. But what makes the perfect Thanksgiving leftover sandwich?

The perfect Thanksgiving leftover sandwich Pumpkin seed slides of bread (crust on)

Turkey (darker coloured leg meat preferable to breast)

A slathering of cranberry sauce

Orange zest

Fresh ginger and nutmeg

Sweet potato crisps

Thin slices of celery Advertisement

'Homemade is preferable as this will likely be more acidic, so better to cut through the fat,' the expert added.

Up until this point, all of these ingredients probably sound quite familiar to Thanksgiving leftover sandwichmaking aficionados.

However, the next three ingredients  orange zest, fresh ginger, and nutmeg  might raise some eyebrows.

The orange zest serves to enhance the aromatic notes, while the fresh ginger and nutmeg 'add a note of winter warming spice', Professor Spence claims.

Next, we need a bit of crunch.

'Given that we all love crunchy, crispy, crackly foods, you should ensure some of the fillings appeal to the ear and help signal freshness,' he previously said.

While sweet potato might sound like an unlikely contender to bring the crunch, Professor Spence suggests crisps made from the vegetable could be perfect.

'We need something noisy. Sadly, sweet potato leftovers from last night are likely to be too soggy, so one might substitute sweet potato crisps,' he said.

'If necessary, you could try making them at home in your air fryer.'

Finally, Professor Spence recommends adding some greenery to your sandwich.

Instead of basic lettuce, the psychologist says that celery could be a great option.

'Lettuce is not necessarily available, but perhaps some thin slices of celery which became hugely popular in States, and was for a while a luxury food at end of 19th Century,' he added.
When the Romans invaded Britain in 43 AD, they introduced a host of innovations, ranging from roads and aqueducts to wine and public toilets.

Now, scientists say we have something else to thank the Romans for: pet cats.

A new study of ancient DNA has revealed that cats only became our companions around 3,500 years ago.

And it wasn't until 2,000 years ago that the first domestic kitties finally made their way into Europe and the UK.

Scientists analysed feline remains from 97 archaeological sites dating back 10,000 years from across Europe and the Near East.

This revealed that cats were first truly domesticated somewhere in North Africa, before being picked up and brought to Europe by Roman traders.

Lead author Dr Claudio Ottoni, a palaeontologist from the University of Rome Tor Vergata, told Daily Mail: '2,000 years is a relatively short time in evolutionary terms,

'It is striking that in such a short time, cats were able to "conquer the world".'

Scientists say that cats weren't domesticated until 3,500 years ago, and only arrived in Europe with the Romans 2,000 years ago

All modern domestic cats are descendants of the African wildcat, which gradually transformed into the friendly pets we know today.

Until now, scientists believes this process took place around 10,000 years ago in the prehistoric Levant, at around the same time as the birth of agriculture.

The idea was that, as humans started storing larger amounts of grains and staying in permanent settlements, our homes started to fill with mice and rats  attracting wildcats to stay with us.

However, two new research papers, published in Cell Genomics and Science, have overturned those assumptions.

By tracing back the cat DNA, Dr Ottoni and his coauthors found 77 distinct cat genomes that recorded the species' movements through time.

This shows that the species we call domestic cats, Felis catus, only emerged around 3,500 years ago.

Researchers can't pin down exactly where pet cats first appeared, since they appear to have emerged in several regions and cultures in North Africa at roughly the same time.

In Pharaonic Egypt, it didn't take long for cats to become deeply entrenched in the spiritual beliefs of the day.

Domesticated cats emerged in North Africa and spread to Europe with the Romans, who took them as mouse hunters on grain ships

What did the Romans ever do for us? The arrival of the Romans brought a number of major technological and cultural innovations to Britain. These include: Paved roads

Aqueducts

The first major towns

Public toilets

Coins as currency

The trademark

Written language

A formal system of measuring distance Advertisement

Cats were praised for their ability to kill rats and venomous snakes, and were treated as holy animals  although they were never technically worshipped.

However, it would take another 1,500 years for cats to make their way to Europe.

Looking at the ancient genomes, the scientists actually found two 'waves' of cat migration to Europe.

The first took place around 2,200 years ago, when people brought African wildcats with them from Northwest Africa to the island of Sardinia, from which Sardinia's modern wild cats are descended.

True domestic cats were only brought to Europe 200 years later, around the start of the first millennium in the Roman imperial period.

Roman traders likely picked up the cats as a form of natural pest control on long sea journeys, dropping them off or selling them when they arrived in distant ports.

So, when Emperor Hadrian's imperial legions landed on Britain's shores, they also brought their cats with them.

Dr Ottoni says: 'Cats were probably following the Roman army and its entourage of people moving along with them.

All modern domestic cats are descendants of the African wildcat (pictured), which slowly adapted to live with humans in North Africa

'Cats were companions, but they were also useful to keep rodents and pests away from food, and for example, also leather materials.'

Interestingly, this research also reveals that our cats' wild relatives held on a lot longer in other parts of the world.

In China, the researchers found that people lived alongside leopard cats for around 3,500 years before domestic cats arrived.

These are small wildcats with leopardlike spots, often known as 'chickenkilling tigers', which were likely attracted by humans' scraps of food and the rodents that infested farmers' settlements.

Scientists have found evidence that people in China lived alongside these largely wild animals since the Neolithic period about 5,400 years ago.

Professor Luo Shu-Jin, of Peking University, told Daily Mail: 'Leopard cats fed on rodents exploiting millet stores, indicating they lived near settlements and benefited from human-created niches, while providing natural rodent control in return.'

However, humans' friendship with the leopard cat ended during the turbulent times after the fall of the Han Dynasty in 220 AD.

'Climate cooling, reduced agricultural output, social upheaval, and population decline likely collapsed the human niche that had supported commensal leopard cats,' says Professor Shu-Jin.

Domestic cats only arrived in China around 700 AD. Prior to this, people had already been living with wild cats for thousands of years. Pictured: One of the earliest depictions of a cat in China from 168 BC

Domestic cats only arrived on the scene around 700 AD, as traders and diplomats carried them from the Middle East and Levant along the Silk Road.

These cats were often white  seen as a sacred colour  which is likely why the proportion of white cats in East Asia today is higher than anywhere else in the world.

As people started to keep more chickens, public opinion turned against the wilder leopard cats and smaller domestic cats slowly took their place.

Professor Shu-Jin says, 'They naturally out-compete leopard cats in human environments: both are good at catching mice, but only one kills chickens.'
The human penis is 'conservative' compared to other members of the animal kingdom  and now a scientist reveals why this is.

Michelle Spear, a professor of anatomy at the University of Bristol, says penises in the animal kingdom can be spiked, corkscrewed and even detachable.

The reason they have such elaborate shapes and features is to help increase the chance of insemination, she explains in a piece for The Conversation.

That's because becoming a father in the wild is more competitive  and success is more down to chance.

In comparison, humans have a less competitive and more pair-bonded mating ritual, in that a man and a woman tend to be together as they try for a baby.

As a result, we've not had to develop these extreme penile features such as bones and backward-facing spines.

'The human penis is so uniform, it's an anatomical outlier,' Professor Spear says.

'Understanding why penises evolved, and why they differ so widely, also helps explain why humans have one at all.'

Michelle Spear, a professor of anatomy at the University of Bristol, reveals why human phalluses are so 'conservative' compared to other animals (file photo)

As Professor Spear explains, non-human penises tend to be more elaborate because they are adapted for 'sperm competition'.

This is when multiple males mate with the same female, and their sperm compete internally for fertilisation.

Essentially, various weird and wonderful penises in the animal kingdom are used as a 'competitive tool'.

The domestic cat, for instance, has backward-facing spines on its penis.

These stimulate ovulation in the female, ensuring sperm meets a ready egg, but also discourage mating with other males by making withdrawal painful.

Perhaps even more gruesomely, male bedbugs use a dagger-like penis to stab through the abdominal wall and deposit sperm, a 2001 study revealed.

This traumatic insemination is not typically deadly, although the female's injuries take time and energy to heal.

More bizarrely, some species of male ducks have corkscrew-shaped penises that can extend in under half a second.

Male ducks are infamous for their bizarre penises (pictured), which are corkscrew-shaped

This image shows more complex primate penises - brown lemur (a), white-bellied spider monkey (b), black-capped squirrel monkey (c), macaque (d, e, f), baboon (g) and chimp (h)

The strangest penises in nature Domestic cat - backward-facing spines

- backward-facing spines Bedbug - dagger-like

- dagger-like Duck - corkscrew-shaped

- corkscrew-shaped Dog, chimp, walrus - bones

- bones Echidna - four heads Advertisement

'This is a response to female ducks evolving highly convoluted vaginas with dead-end pockets and spirals that twist in the opposite direction,' Professor Spear said.

'This is a textbook example of sexual antagonistic co-evolution, where male traits that increase fertilisation rates are countered by female traits that limit male control.'

Certain mammals such as dogs, chimps and walruses have a penis bone, known as the baculum  a form of structural support that allows penetration without having to rely on blood pressure to get an erection.

A bone in the penis allows a male to mate for a long time with a female  another distinct advantage in the race to inseminate and pass on genes.

In contrast, humans don't have a penis bone, as we tend to be a monogamous species, and men don't need to compete for a partner quite as much.

Of course, penises first evolved as a solution to one simple problem  how to achieve internal fertilisation.

'The first animals lived in the sea before our ancestors started living on land half a billion years ago,' the academic explains.

'Today, many aquatic animals still simply release sperm and eggs into the water.

The 'very strange and unusual' echidna penis remains a mystery to researchers who still don't understand why it has four heads

Your browser does not support iframes.

'However, as organisms moved to land, a new mechanism was needed to transfer sperm into the female body  enter the penis.'

The human penis is also pretty big, at least in comparison with some of our closest living relatives.

While the average human manhood measures 5.1 inch (13cm) when erect, the chimp and the bonobo only boast a 3.1 inch (8cm) shaft.

Meanwhile, the orangutan's member measures 3.3 inch (8.5cm) and the gorilla only has a tiddler  just 1.25 inch (3cm).

Simon Underdown, professor of biological anthropology at Oxford Brookes University, said there's a reason for humans being 'king of the swingers'.

And it is 'almost certainly' related to humans starting to walk on two legs (becoming 'bipedal').
A US Navy 'Doomsday plane' has vanished after embarking on a mysterious transatlantic mission.

The Boeing E-6B Mercury was last seen crossing the Atlantic east of Virginia Beach on public flight-tracking systems around 8.30am ET on Friday.

One of just 16 specialized 'Doomsday planes,' Mercury serves as a command-and-control hub for US Strategic Command, the Secretary of War and the President.

It can also transmit orders to carry out nuclear strikes if necessary.

Flight data showed the aircraft departed Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Maryland, and followed a routine southeast path over the Chesapeake Bay, skirting the Norfolk naval complex before heading offshore.

About 60 miles east of the Virginia Capes, its public transponder went dark, a normal practice during sensitive operations.

Once over the ocean, Mercury typically enters classified warning zones, lowers a multi-mile trailing wire antenna, and flies racetrack patterns for four to eight hours while sending secure test messages to submarines and ground stations.

Turning off its transponder during these operations has long led trackers to report the aircraft as 'gone dark.'

Flight tracking data spotted the plane taking off around 8.30am and soaring over the Atlantic before vanishing from radar

The aircraft, operating under the callsign AFD FE2, followed a familiar route used for TACAMO (Take Charge and Move Out) missions that keep US strategic forces, including ballistic-missile submarines, connected to national command authorities even during nuclear conflict.

It came just one day after Thanksgiving, a period when US strategic forces traditionally scale back operations before quickly returning to full readiness.

The 'Doomsday plane' fleet makes up part of Operation Looking Glass, officially known as the Airborne Command Post, which helps communicate with American nuclear forces if ground-based command centers are destroyed.

According to the squadron, its mission is to allow the President and the Secretary of War to directly liaise with US submarines, bombers, and missile silos in the event of a nuclear war.

Boeing built the Navy's fleet between 1989 and 1992.

'The TACAMO airplanes support the Navy's ballistic missile submarine force, providing a vital link to the force from national command authorities,' Boeing's description reads.

'The TACAMO E-6B airplanes are equipped with dual trailing wires that serve as transmitter and antenna, transmitting in the very low frequency spectrum.'

Mercury was built to withstand any large electromagnetic pulse generated by a nuclear disaster.

One of just 16 specialized 'Doomsday planes,' Mercury serves as a command-and-control hub for US Strategic Command, the Secretary of War and the President

The US Navy's 'Doomsday plane' conducted five mysterious flights in March. All missions saw the plane leave Oklahoma and circle Omaha, Nebraska

It relies on older analogue technology rather than digital technology, which would be fried by the pulse.

A previous sighting was in March, when flight radar tracked a Mercury leaving Tinker Air Force Base around 9am ET and soaring around Omaha, where Offutt Air Base is located.

Offutt Air Force Base is a nuclear command, control and communications base that supports national leadership and warfighters.

AirNav Radar, a flight tracker, captured the planes path as it circled and weaved in the skies over Nebraska.

The flight tracker spotted three other Mercury planes in the skies on Monday as well.

One of the planes did a shorter trip, circling outside Tulsa and returning to base one hour later.

Another flew south toward Dallas, and the last Mercury was spotted leaving from Maryland.

That flight also lasted no more than one hour. The purposes of the five Mercury flights are unknown.
Airbus, one of the biggest aircraft makers globally, has issued a major warning that could likely ground many of its 6,000 passenger jets worldwide.

The aeronautics company announced Friday that it discovered a potential vulnerability in the Airbus A320s onboard software. During solar storms, bursts of particles from the sun, this flaw could interfere with pilots ability to steer or stabilize the plane.

Airbus issued an Alert Operators Transmission (AOT), a global warning that urges all airlines using the A320 passenger jet to immediately update their software and hardware to better protect against radiation interference.

'Airbus has consequently identified a significant number of A320 Family aircraft currently in service which may be impacted,' the company said in a statement on Friday.

The affected planes are used by airlines around the globe, including by American Airlines, which reportedly has the largest fleet of A320s, and announced they are working on software updates to 340 of their 480 jets.

In the US, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and JetBlue also operate three of the top 10 largest fleets of A320s worldwide.

Germany's Lufthansa, India's IndiGo, and easyJet in the UK revealed that they would have to pull several of their passenger planes from service in order to update the vulnerable computer systems, according to Reuters.

Industry safety experts believe the problem originated on a JetBlue flight from Cancun, Mexico to Newark, New Jersey that suddenly suffered an uncontrolled drop in altitude of thousands of feet on October 30, injuring at least 15 people.

An investigation involving the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) found intense solar radiation corrupted critical data in the flight control computers, causing the plane to momentarily lose accurate positioning information and plunge downwards.

Airbus has issued an emergency alert for the A320 passenger jet (Pictured) which could suffer electronics problems during solar storms

Intense solar activity in Earth's atmosphere results from solar flares or coronal mass ejections striking the planet with charged particles that can damage electronic (Stock Image)

During the October 30 incident, JetBlue Flight 1230 was cruising at 35,000 feet when the solar radiation caused the uncontrolled drop.

One of the next radio transmissions revealed that the A320 was leveling off at 10,000 feet so the plane could land in Tampa, Florida.

The pilot also reported that multiple passengers had been injured, likely suffering cuts on their heads as the flight plummeted almost 25,000 feet.

'JetBlue 1230 descending to 10,000, we're leveling 297,' the pilot said in audio obtained from the air traffic control transmission by CBS42.

'We need medical equipment; we have at least three people injured, maybe a laceration in the head.'

Daily Mail has reached out to both Airbus and JetBlue for comment regarding the incident and how many flights may be grounded by the emergency warning.

The A320 recently became the best-selling commercial aircraft in history, surpassing the Boeing 737.

'Airbus acknowledges these recommendations will lead to operational disruptions to passengers and customers,' the company confirmed in its statement.

JetBlue Flight 1230, an Airbus 320, is believed to be the origin of the emergency warning, which affects all A320s that may be vulnerable to solar radiation (Pictured: A JetBlue A320)

The Airbus A320 family includes the A319, A320, and longer A321 models, and more than 12,000 have now been delivered around the world.

It is a narrow-body, twin-engine plane designed mainly for short and medium-haul flights, like New York to Los Angeles or London to Madrid, and is the aircraft that flyers are most likely to board on a typical domestic or regional trip.

Depending on how each airline configures its seats, a single A320-family jet can carry anywhere from about 120 to 240 passengers, making it the airline workhorse that flies millions of people every day.

Several passengers were injured on an October 30 JetBlue flight from Mexico to New Jersey after the plane suffered a control issue, the airline revealed

Flyers on social media have already begun to claim that their flights have been cancelled amid the mass A320 groundings.

On Reddit, one passenger allegedly on board an A321 posted that the airport in Istanbul, Turkey was filled with planes coming in for a landing, although it's unclear if this was related to the Airbus software issues.

'Captain says there are so many aircraft on the ground, and we dont know how much longer we will need to wait to be able to leave the aircraft,' the social media user said.

Geomagnetic storms, a major cause of solar radiation, occur when massive eruptions of solar plasma temporarily disrupt Earths magnetic field, similar to a gust of wind shaking a flagpole.

These storms, caused by solar wind and coronal mass ejections, typically take one to five days to reach Earth, allowing scientists to predict their impact on the planet in advance.

Two weeks ago, a severe G4, the second-highest classification for solar storms, struck Earth and was feared to trigger widespread outages to phone networks and power grids.

Previous solar storms have interfered with satellite communication throughout the world, including causing outages among Elon Musk's Starlink internet service.
A 33-year-old woman fell 80ft to her death while taking a photograph of a beauty spot from a 'crumbling' cliffside staircase.

Journalist Leticia Lembi was fatally injured after plunging from the cliff in Barranca de Los Lobos in Mar del Plata, Argentina, on Wednesday.

She is said to have been visiting the area with family and friends when the tragedy occurred.

Tragic: Journalist Leticia Lembi was fatally injured after plunging from a cliff in Barranca de Los Lobos in Mar del Plata, Argentina, on Wednesday

View: A view from the cliff at the Argentinian beauty spot where Leticia Lembi fell to her death

Leticia was reported to have been standing on a deteriorated concrete platform and an old staircase leading down to the beach when she lost her balance and fell around 82 feet onto the rocks below.

Firefighters, paramedics, and police officers rushed to the scene, but she was pronounced dead at the scene.

Rescue teams confirmed the impact would have been instantly fatal and mounted an operation to recover the body from the base of the cliff as the tide advanced.

Last social post: The 33-year-old had visited Costa&Pampa, the country's first ocean winery, just hours before she tragically fell to her death

Prosecutor Carlos Russo also attended the scene and has classified the incident as an accidental death, El Pais reported.

Just hours before her death, Leticia had posted a photograph of her smiling while on a visit to a vineyard around 10 miles away from the beach.

'Here, playing the wine woman,' the 33-year-old wrote in an Instagram story showing her at Costa&Pampa, the country's first ocean winery.

Leticia was from Tres Arroyos, around 170 miles away from the scene of the incident, and held a degree in Journalism and Social Communication from the National University of La Plata.

As well as her main work in digital marketing, she previously worked as a correspondent for local newspaper La Voz del Pueblo in 2020.

Accident: Prosecutor Carlos Russo has classified the incident on Wednesday as an accidental death

At the time of her death, she was working as a strategic coordinator at the digital marketing consultancy Onlera. The agency was founded by her cousin, Santiago Escudero, who was with her when the accident occurred.

In Tres Arroyos, Leticia was known not only for her professional career, but also for her love of dogs and for belonging to a well-known local family.

She posted several pictures of herself on social media posing with her dachshund.

Locals in Mar del Plata stated the staircase and concrete platform where the accident happened had long shown signs of extreme erosion and structural deterioration.

Despite warning signs about the danger of landslides on the cliffs in the area, the viewpoint and access route was still open to visitors and tourists.
Kathy Hilton has not only been making headlines for her role on The Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills - but also for her extremely youthful looks.

Although she's always been in the spotlight, the star, 66, has made an even bigger splash lately by joining her sister, Kyle Richards, as a 'friend of' on the Bravo reality show in 2021.

Not to mention, Kathy was also a big part of her daughter Paris Hilton's Peacock show, Paris in Love.

SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO

So young! Fans went wild after seeing a snap Kathy Hilton with her husband, Rick Hilton, celebrating their 46th wedding anniversary, for her youthful look

This week, the star posted a picture to Instagram of herself and her husband, Rick Hilton, in honor of their 46th wedding anniversary.

The socialite turned heads in a skimpy black lace minidress showing off her age-defying figure - and face.

In the snap, Hilton looked half her age as she posed next to Rick, who was dressed in an all-white suit and a navy blue zip-up.

One fan wrote: 'Va-va-voom! Okay Kathy, you look amazing! Happy anniversary!'

Another said: 'Kathy! You look so so so HOT.'

Someone else wrote: 'You both look incredible and you're just as amazing on the inside too! God bless you both. Happy Anniversary.'

Hilton has never publicly confirmed or denied any plastic surgery rumors, but now, a plastic surgeon has revealed exclusively to Daily Mail if they believe that the star has been under the knife or not.

Oregon-based plastic surgeon Dr Sean McNally, who has never treated Hilton directly, suggested that the star has indeed undergone cosmetic surgery.

Young family: Kathy pictured here in 1996 with her daughter Paris and husband Rick

McNally said: 'The two things that stand out the most for me are how open her eyes look which is likely due to an upper blepharoplasty and the angle of her brows and eyes have changed.

'They're both more canted up laterally which is likely secondary to a temporal brow lift.'

He continued that he suspects she has also had cosmetic injections, claiming: 'Her lips are definitely done and I suspect that she has also been getting filler to her midface to help maintain her natural fullness in this area.'

Discussing her seeming absence of age spots, McNally added: 'This is likely due to a combination of a solid skin care routine and regular maintenance with IPL and/or lasers.'

Then and now: Kathy in 1999 at The Royal Oak Foundation Benefit Gala in New York (left) and at Kris Jenner's 70th birthday earlier in November this year (right)

Simply stunning: Kathy looking youthful with her husband Rick in 2001

More recent: Kathy pictured at a gala in 2022 sporting a very youthful glow

Kathy has previously opened up about her skincare routine, which involves at-home laser treatments, dry brushing, and collagen drinks.

The reality star told US Weekly she uses an at-home laser treatment called The Lyma Laser.

She said: 'It's amazing, I really love it.

'Theres so many things out there right now that are available to us. Why not try it? Ive always been into skincare.'

In addition to the laser treatments, the actress also likes to dry brush every day to detoxify her skin, and drink a collagen drink to increase hydration and the elasticity in her skin.
As Black Friday kicks off today, November 28, there will be countless holiday and travel-related deals on offer.

Keen holidaymakers will likely be ready to bag a bargain this weekend.

And this will continue through to Cyber Monday and Travel Tuesday next week - with so many travel offers available for a discount price.

However, the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has urged travellers to be careful when booking trips during the sales period.

It revealed that a whopping 11million was lost to holiday fraud in 2024, according to City of London Police.

Out of the entire country, Londoners lost the most, totalling nearly 2.5million.

Several other areas were massively hit, too, including the West Midlands which was hit with 546,000 in losses.

Elsewhere, holidaymakers in Greater Manchester lost 508,000 and travel enthusiasts in Hampshire were hit by 482,000.

As Black Friday kicks off today, November 28, there will be countless holiday and travel-related deals on offer - but tourists have been warned to stay vigilant for scams (stock)

The CAA shared tips to avoid being caught out during Black Friday and Travel Tuesday sales.

It recommends travellers check the trip has ATOL protection before handing over any money.

The organisation explained that companies 'selling air package holidays in the UK must hold an ATOL (Air Travel Organiser's Licence)'.

This means that if the company ceases trading before the holiday, customers are still protected, too.

It is also recommended to use a credit card when booking a break away.

Using a credit card could offer protection under the Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act.

Travel insurance is another way for holidaymakers to protect themselves in case of cancellations or emergencies.

Selina Chadha, Group Director of Consumers & Markets at the UK Civil Aviation Authority, said: 'Holiday fraud is a growing concern, especially around major sales events like Travel Tuesday.

But keen holidaymakers have been warned that the bargains may be too good to be true at times (stock)

'With over 11 million lost in 2024 alone, it's important that consumers are equipped with the knowledge they need to protect themselves.

'Before booking, check that your travel provider is an ATOL holder and that your holiday is ATOL protected.

'You should receive an ATOL Certificate that confirms what's covered.

'Using a credit card and taking out travel insurance can also provide extra peace of mind if things don't go to plan.'
On holiday, every penny counts.

From parking to pints, airport costs can add up quickly, eating into your holiday budget before you've even left the country.

But according to experts, you can save thousands on a long-haul trip if you know one key piece of advice.

According to a new report by Which?, there could be an easy way for a family of four to save at least 1,000 on a trip to Sydney or Tokyo.

Instead of starting your trip at Heathrow or Gatwick, the consumer group recommends finding the cheapest flight you can to Istanbul.

Which? analysed price data from Skyscanner and saw that the average flight from London to Sydney costs 1,012, while Istanbul to Sydney is 653. Thats a difference of 359 per person.

For Tokyo, it was 350 cheaper per person.

Experts at Which? claim they have seen flights to Istanbul from Bristol, Manchester or London for less than 30.

Instead of starting your trip at Heathrow or Gatwick, consumer group Which? recommend finding the cheapest flight you can to Istanbul

The group also compared the price of flying from nine European airports to long-haul destinations such as New York, Los Angeles, Cape Town and Sydney.

On average, across all the destinations, it was 139 per person cheaper to fly from Istanbul than Amsterdam, and 137 per person cheaper than flying from London.

Oslo was the second cheapest airport at 612, then Paris and Stockholm (both 641), Madrid (672), Copenhagen (682) and Frankfurt (705).

But there were big variations, depending on where youre heading.

Unsurprisingly, Istanbul is not a good choice for westbound flights.

Copenhagen had the cheapest flights to New York (355) and Oslo had the cheapest flights to LA (401). Although, unlike if you fly from London, your flight would have to be indirect.

Paris had the cheapest flights to Mexico City.

London is the second most expensive city to fly from, after Amsterdam, for the selection of eight long-haul destinations.

London is an expensive place to start a long-haul trip - if you can, choose these airports instead

Its nearly 200 per person cheaper to fly from Oslo to Bangkok than from London, 247 cheaper to fly to Tokyo from Stockholm, and 182 cheaper to fly to Cape Town from Oslo (despite it being a lot further away than the UK).

Part of the explanation is tax. The long-haul tax from the UK in economy class is 94.

Taxes from other countries range from zero - Turkey and Sweden - to around 40 from France.

It could also be that high demand for flights from the UK pushes the prices up.
A major UK airport operator has hit out at Rachel Reeves' Budget and claims it is 'impacting hard-working people'.

The Chancellor of the Exchequer has announced a business rate increase in her recent Budget.

It will see major airports across the country hit with huge increases in their rate bills.

Manchester Airports Group, which operates Manchester Airport, East Midlands Airport and Stansted, will be charged 75million.

A spokesperson for the company told the Daily Mail it would have to 'look again' at its future investment plans due to the budget.

They said: 'This Government has rightly recognised aviation's role in delivering its growth mission. Its policy support for major infrastructure investment that creates jobs, powers regions and unlocks global trade has been welcome.

'That position is inconsistent with the decision to more than double airports' business rates bills.

'Airports were already some of the highest rates-payers in the country and were prepared to pay significantly more.

Manchester Airports Group, which operates Manchester Airport, East Midlands Airport (pictured) and Stansted, will be charged 75million

What's more, as a result of the higher rates, Manchester Airports Group claimed it is 'inevitable air travel will become more expensive' because of the costs.

The spokesperson added: 'But increases of more than 100% mean we have to look again at our plans to invest more than 2bn in our airports across the UK over the next five years.

'It is inevitable air travel will become more expensive as the industry absorbs these costs.

'That impacts hard-working people throughout the country and makes global trade harder for businesses.

'Unless a realistic long-term settlement is agreed in the upcoming review, the growth of our sector - and the economy - will be held back.'

Heathrow, which already pays the highest rate in the country, is set to see its rate bill go from 117 million to 240million in three years, according to tax advisor company Ryan LLC.

The UK's biggest hub will see a 353 per cent increase in its rateable value in 2026, in comparison to its valuation in 2023.

London Gatwick Airport will also see its rate bill more than double, and will be hit with an 80million charge by 2028-29.

A spokesperson for the company told the Daily Mail it would have to 'look again' at its future investment plans due to the budget

The chief executive of AirportsUK, Karen Dee, told The Telegraph how holidaymakers will be impacted by the bill increases.

She said: 'It's a short-sighted move that passengers will feel in their pockets with both hard-working families and business flyers experiencing price rises and more limited choices.'

The expert hit out at Labour supporting new terminals and runways whilst also ramping up charges that might make such plans difficult for hubs.

She explained how the increase could make some companies 'review billions of pounds of transformational investments' as well as put jobs at risk.

'This will obviously have a knock-on effect for the businesses that depend on airport connectivity in all areas of England, negatively impacting local economies that depend on the supply chains, tourists and connections their airports provide,' Karen added.

She blames the increases on how successful the travel industry has managed to bounce back from the pandemic.

This, Karen says, has led to the cost being passed to airlines and therefore an increase in fares for passengers.
The world's dirtiest city has been revealed - and it's been criticised for having crumbling buildings and rubbish on the streets.

Budapest has been labelled the worlds dirtiest city.

The Hungarian capital tops the list as Europes dirtiest city, with more than 37.9 per cent of cleanliness-related reviews describing dirt or poor upkeep.

Reports online by visitors and tourists of dirtiness in the city have suggested it is unkempt.

One Reddit user wrote: 'Why is there so much rubbish and junk from peoples houses out on the streets of Budapest?!'

They added: 'Seems like a free for all! People scavenging for anything and everything. I have never seen this before.'

Users in the comments explained that in the city, each section of each district has a date each year where the council will collect belongings that are no longer wanted.

They added: 'In the inner districts where tourists roam, this can be an eyesore.'

The world's dirtiest city has been revealed - and it's been criticised for having crumbling buildings and rubbish on the streets

The Hungarian capital tops the list as Europes dirtiest city, with more than 37.9 per cent of cleanliness-related reviews describing dirt or poor upkeep

Other reports echo this complaint, with one TripAdvisor review saying: 'Budapest is beautiful but old and kind of dirty!'

One visitor wrote on Quora: 'Why is Budapest so filthy?'

And images online showing beer bottles and rubbish strewn across the streets back up the claims.

After Budapest, cities such as Rome, Paris and Florence, where ancient sites and high tourist levels are expected, cleanliness seems a bigger challenge.

Italy has the biggest cleanliness problem overall, according to the research from Radical Storage.

Rome came in second place in the ranking of dirties cities, with 35.7 per cent of reviews being negative.

Taking the third spot was Las Vegas, with 31.6 per cent of cleanliness-related reviews being negative.

Coming fourth was Florence, with 29.6 per cent of reviews being negative.

Other reports from visitors, for instance on online forum, echo this complaint, with one TripAdvisor review saying: 'Budapest is beautiful but old and kind of dirty!'

And images online showing beer bottles and rubbish strewn across the streets back up the claims

Paris came in fifth, as 28.2 per cent of reviews showed a negative opinion.

Of all countries, Italy has the most cities appearing among the worlds dirtiest, with four historic centres - Rome, Florence, Milan and Verona - all ranking within the top 10 for the highest proportion of negative cleanliness reviews.

The new study from Radical Storage analysed more than 70,000 Google reviews of the top 10 attractions across 100 cities in Euromonitors Top City Destinations Index.

It then determined which cities rank the highest and lowest for cleanliness.

Online reviews from the past twelve months were scanned for words such as clean and dirty to measure which cities are most frequently praised or criticised.
A flight had to make an emergency landing after a passenger was apparently found smoking inside the toilet.

On November 9, a JetBlue plane departed from Boston Logan International Airport and was heading to Tampa International Airport.

The Airbus A321 was en route to complete flight JBU1191 and was carrying 200 passengers, Simple Flying reports.

Things took a turn when someone on board reportedly smoked marijuana and the smell wafted over to the cabin crew.

Instagram account @you_can_see_atc posted footage that reveals the moment a pilot contacted Air Traffic Control about the issue, at 34,000 feet in the air.

In the audio, he said: 'For JetBlue 1191, we had a security issue on board with a passenger, mostly a disturbance.'

The pilot goes on to explain how the smoke was noticed by flight attendants.

He said: 'They were smoking marijuana. Our crew inhaled it. And now we're overweight landing [when an aircraft lands with a gross weight exceeding its maximum design landing weight]. So that's the main reason for the emergency.'

On November 9 a JetBlue plane departed from Boston Logan International Airport and was heading to Tampa International Airport (stock)

The plane was then arranged to return to Boston Airport and the controller replied: 'JetBlue 1191, Boston, information K is now current, expect ILS RWY 22L approach.

'Tower advises if you'd like the longer runway, 15R, that is available and expect a light chop in the descent.'

Flight data on Flight Aware shows how the plane departed at 5.20pm and a depiction of the route details how it turns around.

The plane landed at 7.32pm at Boston Logan International Airport.

The Daily Mail approached JetBlue for comment.

It comes after a Ryanair flight was diverted after a passenger reportedly 'ate his passport' and another attempted to flush one down the toilet.

Around 15 to 20 minutes into the journey from Milan to London-Stansted, two men began to behave 'strange', an anonymous source told the Daily Star.

Shortly after the seatbelt signed was switched off, one of the men, who was seated at the front of the plane, reportedly ripped pages out of his passport and ate them, causing passengers to 'freak out'.

Things took a turn when someone on board reportedly smoked marijuana and the smell wafted over to the cabin crew (stock)

Meanwhile, another man attempted to 'flush his passport down the toilet'.

'Staff were notified and went to see what was going on at the front of the plane,' the source told the publication.

'Suddenly, the whole mood changed  no one onboard knew what was going on; these people were acting weird.'

A flight attendant reportedly knocked on the toilet door and tried to convince the man to stop flushing the important travel document down the loo.
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

Many travellers battle with motion sickness, a condition that can hamper the enjoyment of a trip.

And while there are plenty of products on the market that claim to cure motion sickness, there is a much more affordable solution that you could already have in your kitchen cupboards.

'You don't need expensive tablets or special wristbands,' travel expert Yasmin Pekel from Blue Cruise told The Mirror.

'A peppermint tea bag genuinely helps settle the stomach before you travel.'

It's well-known that peppermint can help relax the stomach and relieve nausea. It can be bought in the form of an essential oil or capsule, as well as in tea bags.

Drinking peppermint tea is a great alternative to other expensive medications that can come with side effects.

A box of 40 peppermint tea bags costs just 1.60 from Tesco - that's 4p per bag.

They are also often provided for free in hotel rooms and at breakfast buffets.

Many travellers battle with motion sickness, a condition that can hamper the enjoyment of a trip

You can carry a couple of peppermint tea bags in your carry-on bag and ask for a cup of hot water on the plane.

For car journeys or boat trips, bringing your own Thermos is a good idea. As a bonus, it can keep you toasty on chilly days.

The travel expert explained: 'When your eyes and ears send mixed messages to the brain, that's when travel sickness starts.

'Peppermint helps smooth out that response and stops the feeling of motion building up.

'Peppermint has stood the test of time. It's safe, it's easy to find and it works for adults and children.

'A lozenge or mint sweet can help too, but tea is the best option because it keeps you hydrated and the smell alone helps people feel less queasy.'

The NHS explains: 'Motion sickness is caused by repeated movements when travelling, like going over bumps in a car or moving up and down in a boat, plane or train.

'The inner ear sends different signals to your brain from those your eyes are seeing. These confusing messages cause you to feel unwell.'

Drinking peppermint tea is a great alternative to other expensive medications that can come with side effects

It recommends looking straight ahead or closing your eyes and breathing slowly to alleviate the effects of motion sickness.

Australian author Zoe-Foster-Blake previously revealed that you can use your smartphone to avoid getting motion sickness while in the car.

She explained that people with the Apple IOS 18 update on their iPhone can actually turn on a special setting called 'Vehicle Motion Cues'.

Found in the settings part of the phone, the Vehicle Motion Cues appear as 'animated dots on the edges of the screen that represent how the vehicle is moving without interfering with what you're doing on iPhone.'

The sensors can detect when the user is in a moving vehicle. Apple says users need to click on the motion button in the accessibility section of settings. They can select to put on vehicle motion cues.
The swooshing sounds of people skating on crisp ice, and the excited chatter of friends drinking hot chocolate nearby, is a Christmas staple for many.

There are countless ice rinks around the world, but there is one that's the been dubbed Europe's most sought after seasonal rink.

Grand Palais de Glaces in Paris is located under the Grand Palais museum's iconic glass dome.

Research by European ferry operator DFDS revealed the popular rink has seen a 83 per cent year-on-year increase in searches.

The analysis looked at 75 ice rinks across Europe and compared average Google searches from December to February

As the largest temporary indoor ice rink in the world, the Grand Palais de Glaces is a whopping 2,700 m.

It's open from December 13 to January 7 and guests can skate under the stars until 2am during the extended evening sessions.

The rink is a quick trip away from the UK, too. A flight from London to Paris is only around one hour and 20 minutes, according to Skyscanner.

Grand Palais de Glaces in Paris is located under the Grand Palais museum's iconic glass dome

Vienna Ice World in Austria is spread across two levels and is 10,000 m.

It placed second in the rankings and saw a 32 per cent year-on-year search increase.

The rink is open from January until March in the City Hall Square and is one of the biggest open-air artificial ice rinks in the world.

It also features the unique Sky Rink which is a terrace on the first level with a 150-metre long ramp.

Located in Cologne, Germany, the Ice Rink at Heumarkt ranked third.

Tucked away amongst the Heinzels Wintermarchen Chirstmas market, the rink has had a 16 per cent increase in interest.

It's surrounded by decorative stalls and opens from November 24 to January 4.

Matadero Madrid Ice Rink in the Spanish capital placed fourth with an eight per cent increase.

Vienna Ice World in Austria is spread across two levels and is 10,000 m

Europes most popular seasonal ice rinks Grand Palais de Glaces, France Vienna Ice World, Austria Ice Rink at Heumarkt, Germany Matadero Madrid Ice Rink, Spain Old Town Ice Rink, Tallinn Source: DFDS Advertisement

Meanwhile, Old Town Ice Rink in Tallinn came fifth with seven per cent.

DFDS' analysis also looked at the most popular outdoor rinks in Europe and placed Skate at Somerset House, in London, first.

The ice rink attracted 195,700 Google searches across the winter period and is open from November 12 to January 11.

Another London spot, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, ranked second and was followed by Vienna Ice World.
Marjorie Taylor Greene shocked the D.C. set when she dramatically quit Congress last week, but she won't be out of a job for long if TV bosses get their way.

Speculation is already swirling that Greene could be on the 'shortlist' to join ABC's The View following her surprisingly well received appearance on the talk show earlier this month.

The rumors kicked off last week when MTG announced her resignation from her seat in the U.S. House of Representatives last week.

Moments after the bombshell announcement, former View star Meghan McCain posted to X, 'I knew she was going to be the next co-host of The View!'

McCain held the conservative seat on The View from 2017 to 2021, before quitting and being replaced by Alyssa Farah Griffin the following year.

Speculation is rife that Marjorie Taylor Greene could be headed to The View next year following her shock exit from Congress

Griffin is currently preparing to go on maternity leave ahead of the birth of her first child in February.

It's convenient timing, given that Greene's resignation will take effect from January 5.

Speaking to Daily Mail, a View producer said 'never say never' when it comes to MTG joining the long-running show.

'She was actually really lovely behind the scenes - no one expected that,' the insider said.

'And I know that we had a lot more social media engagement that day. Before she was on, I'd have been like "absolutely not", but now I could see the vision if they decided to go that route,' they continued.

'I don't think it's in the immediate plans or anything, but she is definitely someone who would be on a shortlist.'

However, another source close to the situation isn't convinced that Greene will join the show any time soon, telling Daily Mail, 'the table is full'.

A View producer says Greene could be on the 'shortlist' to join the talk show following her surprisingly well received appearance earlier this month

Media and PR specialist Vanessa Santos, who runs the politically-charged publicity firm Renegade DC, believes that Greene would be a great fit for the show.

'The View would be lucky to have her,' Santos told Daily Mail.

'Even if she's distancing herself from Trump right now, she still represents traditional Republican values - and she'd bring a level of courage and clarity that show desperately needs.'

Unfortunately, View staple Joy Behar has already tried to throw water on rumors that MTG could be a replacement for Whoopi Goldberg.

'Don't worry, she's not being replaced by Marjorie Taylor Greene,' Behar said about Whoopi on Monday's episode.

Daily Mail has contacted ABC and Greene for comment.

During her appearance on The View earlier this month, Greene, 51, and outspoken liberal co-host Sunny Hostin discussed the Georgia politician's attacks on both Republicans and Democrats.

At the time, Greene insisted she has always felt comfortable defying party lines and only wants the best for working-class Americans.

She also complained about the government shutdown and said she was sick of the 'p**sing contest between the men' while slamming other Washington, DC lawmakers.

Speaking to Daily Mail, a View producer said 'never say never' when it comes to MTG joining the long-running show

The conversation that followed was civil, with the women touching on topics ranging from the administration's handling of the case surrounding Jeffrey Epstein to Israel's assault on Gaza.

The appearance was incredibly well received, impressing both Hostin and loyal viewers of the show.

'Im sitting here just stumped, because you are a very different person than I thought you were,' Hostin said at one point during the interview.

Greene responded, 'Well, youve only seen me in clips and headlines, and thats not fair.'

She added, 'All of this two-party fighting, you guys are all victims of the political industrial complex. Its built on fundraising and fighting and toxic garbage. That exists all over social media, but its not gonna solve our problems in this country.'

Greene had been embroiled in a nasty spat with Trump in the wake of her guest appearance on The View.

Earlier this month, he branded the Georgia Representative as 'Marjorie Taylor Brown' adding, 'Green grass turns Brown when it begins to ROT!'

In a follow up post, he also labelled her 'Marjorie Traitor Greene', after saying she 'betrayed the entire Republican Party when she turned Left.'

A dismissive Behar has already shared on air that Greene is 'not replacing' Whoopi Goldberg on the program

Greene and Trump continued to trade social media barbs with Greene sharing screenshots of texts she sent to Trump about the Epstein files.

On November 21, Greene announced she will resign from Congress at the beginning of 2026 following her split from longtime ally Trump.

In a lengthy statement and 10-minute video, she branded the president 'hateful' over his decision to retract his endorsement of her, a move which saw him dismiss Greene as a 'ranting lunatic'.

The Georgia lawmaker cited a growing disgust with the political establishment in Washington and her fight for the release of the so-called Epstein files which formed the brunt of her feud with Trump.

Trump appeared to soften in the aftermath of Greene's resignation from Congress.

'It's not going to be easy for her,' he said referring to her being able to revive her career in politics. 'I'd love to see that.'
Nicola Peltz Beckham has accused the groomers who allegedly killed her beloved chihuahua of potentially harming 'several' other pets - as she demands the business hand over its client records.

In court documents filed last week and obtained by the Daily Mail, the actress, 30, seeks to uncover whether her pooch Nala's death is part of a wider pattern of abuse by Westchester-based HoundSpa, which she claims is now refusing to provide its customer list.

Lawyers for Peltz say both parties are now at an 'impasse' after the company has failed to comply with her initial request and their meeting to resolve the matter outside of court in October.

Peltz, who is married to British-born Brooklyn Beckham, 26, filed her original lawsuit against HoundSpa, its owner Deborah Gittleman and dog groomer Jonny Ceballos in 2024.

The Bates Motel star claimed that 'healthy, happy dog' Nala returned from a session at the mobile dog groomers in 'severe physical distress' and died hours later.

Nicola Peltz claims her beloved chihuahua Nala was left injured and in severe physical distress after a routine grooming at HoundSpa's mobile van in Bedford, New York, last year

The chihuahua fell ill after a mobile grooming session in New York. She later died after being rushed to an emergency vet (Nicola and Brooklyn pictured at Nala's grave)

Veterinary records revealed the eight-year-old dog suffered from fluid in her lungs, neurological issues and a dangerously rapid heart rate before her untimely death.

Peltz was left in distress over the incident and claims Nala's death was due to 'intentional and malicious abuse'.

In the new filing, Peltz's lawyers Alicia Talbe and Daniella Vincent said that HoundSpa is refusing to hand over the customer list, claiming that the demand is too broad.

'Several other HoundSpa customers have reported that their dogs, like Plaintiff's dog, were injured by defendants,' the documents state.

'Plaintiff, therefore, has a good faith basis to believe that HoundSpa's customer list includes other customers, who are yet to be identified and whose dogs were similarly injured.

'The customer list could lead to the discovery of other individuals whose dogs were injured by defendants, which is relevant to plaintiff's claims regarding defendants' intent and knowledge.'

Peltz, 30, is now requesting the dog groomers turn over client records to determine whether Nala's death could be part of a wider pattern of abuse by the company

HoundSpa, located in Bedford, New York, has mixed Google reviews with some customers complaining about poor treatment of their animals

The filing states that after a conference between lawyers on November 18, the parties were 'at an impasse' and so asked the judge to resolve it.

The document does not mention any customers by name, however, HoundSpa has mixed Google reviews, with some customers complaining about poor treatment of their animals.

Overall, the company has a three-star rating out of five.

In a review from seven months ago, Lauren Krasne gave the company one star out of five and wrote: 'Hound Spa was by far the worst grooming job my dogs have ever gotten.

'My younger dog came back to me with cuts from the razor on her chest and stomach and the groomer did not say anything about it. Do not put your dogs in a dangerous situation and use them.'

Carmen Santos also gave one star and wrote an even more scathing review, which was liked by 37 people.

One dog owner, Lauren Krasne, who used HoundSpa's services claims it was the 'worst grooming job my dogs have ever gotten' and that they came back maimed

She wrote: 'DO NOT USE HOUND SPA if you love your animals'.

Santos said she got her German Shepherd and Shiba / Husky mix groomed by Ceballos but got a 'bad vibe' because he 'wasn't friendly'.

When Santos tried to speak to Gittleman, she would 'brush over' her concerns, Santos claimed.

Another woman, Gigi Perry, gave one star in her review and said she had a 'horrible experience' with HoundSpa.

She claimed her dog had been left 'traumatized' and that after every grooming, her dog got diarrhea from stress.

Perry wrote: 'This absolute last visit... Jonny came in the home, mishandled the puppy (in front of several witnesses) in such a horrific manner the pup peed as he grabbed them!

The couple had been pictured cuddling with the adorable pooch in photos shared on social media

'LAST TIME. NEVER AGAIN!'

HoundSpa's website touts its mobile dog grooming service which is a 'crate-free / stress-free' way to groom your pet, where the animal never leaves their home.

But even its Facebook page - where it posts pictures of groomed dogs - has been marked by comments from Peltz's supporters.

Next to a picture of a woman standing outside the grooming van one user wrote: 'Need cameras inside the van. Rip Nala.'

Gittleman's lawyer Tony Siano said in an email: 'My client and I will conduct this litigation in court, not by social media posts.'

He dismissed the filing as just an 'argument' from Peltz's side.

The Daily Mail has reached out to Ceballos's lawyer and a representative for Peltz for comment.
She's been open about her past addiction battles and her multiple suicide attempts, but the Daily Mail can reveal Eminem's ex-wife Kim Scott is now sober and lives a quiet life.

Seen in exclusive Daily Mail photos, the mom-of-four appeared weary as she returned to her Detroit, Michigan, home following a trip to shop for groceries ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday.

Wearing baggy pants, a Y2K-style Von Dutch trucker cap and a hoodie, grim-faced Scott, 50, appeared to be struggling with her heavy load.

Scott lives just six miles from the home of her rapper ex-husband, who she infamously married twice  once in 1999 and again in 2006.

Both marriages proved short-lived, although the former couple did have one child together  Hailee Jade, who gave birth to her own first child, son Elliot Marshall McClintock, earlier this year.

Eminem also adopted Scott's daughter Stevie, 23, who was born between the two marriages and identifies as non-binary, and her niece Alaina, 32, who was welcomed into the family in the early 2000s due to her mother Dawn's own addiction problems.

Eminem's ex wife Kim Scott was spotted hauling in Thanksgiving groceries ahead of the holidays back to her Detroit home

The blonde former drug addict, who cropped her hair short, lives just six miles from her rapper ex-husband, whom she famously married twice - first in 1999 and again in 2006

Scott, 50 has openly discussed her past demons, including struggles with addiction, time in jail, and suicide attempts

'I have full custody of my niece,' the devoted dad told Rolling Stone in 2004. 'My niece has been a part of my life ever since she was born.

'Me and Kim pretty much had her, she'd live with us wherever we was at.'

Despite the turbulent marriages, Eminem, whose real name is Marshall Mathers III, and Scott remain close, with both attending Hailie Jade's wedding in May 2024.

Scott now lives a quiet life in her $400,000 ranch-style home with son Parker, who was born following her second split from Eminem.

Her newly peaceful existence is a far cry from her troubled upbringing and tumultuous time in the spotlight at the height of her rapper ex-husband's fame.

The 50-year-old inspired several Eminem hits, not all of them positive, among them the violent murder fantasy Kim and Love The Way You Lie.

On her grocery haul, she kept it casual but Y2K chic, wearing baggy black pants, a Von Dutch trucker cap and a black quarter-zip hoodie

Scott now leads a quiet life in her $400,000 ranch-style home with her son Parker, who was born after her second split from Eminem

Scott's relationship with Eminem was a source of inspiration for the rapper - both bad and good - particularly for his songs Kim and Love The Way You Lie

The couple share one biological daughter named Hailie Jade (center). Eminem also adopted Scott's daughter Stevie, 23, (left) who was born between the two marriages and identifies as non-binary, and her niece Alaina, 32 (right)

Both have copped to taking drugs during the two marriages, while Scott's life has been punctuated by legal troubles  including a 2000 arrest for disorderly conduct following an altercation outside a nightclub with the rapper.

Scott was last collared in 2015 after she crashed her Cadillac Escalade SUV while drunk in what she later said was a suicide attempt.

'It was intentional,' Scott admitted on Detroit's Channel 995 radio show Mojo in the Morning.

'I never expected to make it out alive.'

She later recalled, 'I sat at the end of a road where I knew that no one else but myself would get hurt. Yes, I drank, yes, I took pills and I hit the gas and aimed for a pole.'

For that, she received a year's probation, a fine and was ordered to get therapy for her mental health woes.

Scott was last arrested in 2015 after crashing her Cadillac Escalade while intoxicated into a pole, an incident she later described as a suicide attempt

The exes faced a heated courtroom clash in 2007, with Eminem seeking to bar her from making negative remarks about him, fearing it might affect their daughter

In 2022, Scott revealed she attempted suicide for a second time following the death of her beloved mom, Kathy Sluck.

Audio from a 911 call in July 2022 revealed one of Scott's four children found her 'surrounded by blood and pills on her bathroom floor'.

On arriving at the house, first responders found Scott to be 'combative and violent' and also had 'several small lacerations on the back of her leg'.

According to a police report, Scott was found 'bleeding excessively' and was on the bathroom floor holding an 'unidentified object' in her hands.

The report claimed that she had 'attempted to strike the responding officer' and added she appeared to have 'difficulty speaking, was slurring her speech and later fluctuated in various levels of consciousness.'

A box was also discovered that contained 'haphazard messages' that Kim had penned to family members and a 'do not resuscitate' request that she had written.

That episode led to a 45-day stint in rehab, with Scott telling the US Sun in 2023 that she is now 'doing good'.

She added: 'It's been hard, I lost my mom, my dad, and my sister [over the past 10 years]. '[But] I'm good. I've been clean since about October, I went to Jefferson House [a rehab]...for 45 days.'
Rumours have been circulating on social media this week that Hollywood actor Timothee Chalamet is actually secretly a rapper.

The star, 29, is known for his roles in huge films like Dune and Wonka, but many have become convinced that he is a rapper called EsDeeKid.

The viral star is from Liverpool and his songs have been climbing into the top 20 of the UK singles chart in recent weeks amid the whisperings.

Mysteriously, EsDeeKid is completely anonymous in all of his pictures and at his shows he always wears masks and balaclavas to conceal his real identity.

Online many have been sharing pictures of Timothee next to EsDeeKid and are pointing out the similarities.

Fans have been penning on X: 'the timothee chalamet is esdeekid theory has got to be top 5 conspiracy theories of all time.',

Rumours have been circulating on social media this week that Hollywood actor Timothee Chalamet is actually secretly a rapper

The viral star is from Liverpool and his songs have been climbing into the top 20 of the UK singles chart in recent weeks

'Could be. Dude has the ability to sound like this from his roles and the use of a linguists and just adjusting the pitch of his voice.',

'Looks like his eyes'.,

'Fav theory.',

However others were quick to point out that EsDeeKid has a strong Scouse accent that the American star wouldn't be able to pull off.

The rumours appear to stem from a TikTok posted on November 11, from a user named KJ Freeman who posted a clip setting out his evidence, with the caption: 'this is going to sound crazy...'

He pointed out that the pair both have green eyes and have the same skull-print Alexander McQueen scarf.

Timothee was also seen at the London show of EsDeeKid collaborator Fakemink, reports GQ.

Freeman added in another post: 'it's in his DNA to do some s**t like that'.

A representative for Timothee has been contacted by the Daily Mail for comment.

Online many have been sharing pictures of Timothee next to EsDeeKid and are pointing out the similarities

Other TikTokers took images of the actor and put fake face coverings on him to show that it could be him

Mysteriously, EsDeeKid is completely anonymous in all of his pictures and at his shows he wears masks and balaclavas to conceal his real identity

The rumours appear to stem from a TikTok posted on November 11, from a user named KJ Freeman who posted a clip setting out his evidence, with the caption: 'this is going to sound crazy...'

The rumours come after the actor is thought to have called it quits with girlfriend Kylie Jenner.

The actor and the makeup mogul, 28 - who shares two children with rapper Travis Scott - first sparked headlines when their unlikely romance began in April 2023 after meeting at Paris Fashion Week.

And for months rumors of an on-again, off-again relationship have swirled around the pair.

A few weeks ago the Daily Mail reported it was officially 'trouble in paradise' for the Dune star and the Kylie Cosmetics billionaire.

Chalamet 'broke up with Kylie,' one source claimed, adding, 'this has happened before  but she talked him into getting back together. She is crazy about him so that could well happen again.'

A second source told the Daily Mail, 'There is trouble in paradise, but they aren't completely over.'

They added, 'He is filming quite a bit, and she feels that she has to chase him. She is putting in the work more than him.'

The timing coincides with Chalamet's new Vogue cover interview, which many fans interpreted as him taking a subtle swipe at Jenner.

The magazine noted that the actor 'will not talk about his relationship,' and quoted him saying, 'I don't say that with any fear, I just don't have anything to say.'

Despite not wanting to talk about his romance, the Vogue interviewer added that Chalamet 'didn't mind at all acknowledging the new stage of his life that he is entering into.'

He also mentioned that his sister recently welcomed a baby and his Dune co-star Zendaya is newly engaged to Tom Holland, hinting that fatherhood is something he's now thinking about: 'That could be on the radar.'

Jenner, meanwhile, kept things equally tight-lipped in her own 2024 British Vogue profile, telling the outlet, 'Privacy is so important to me in life.'

But according to Radar, the makeup mogul isn't thrilled about Chalamet's reluctance to publicly acknowledge their romance.

Insiders told the outlet that the Vogue interview opened up an already sore spot - Jenner reportedly feels she's doing more emotional lifting than he is.

A friend told Radar that Jenner believed they were ready to go more public and was blindsided when he brushed off the subject so lightly.

'Kylie was really upset by how casually Timothee dismissed the question. She honestly believed they were past the point of hiding things and that he'd want to celebrate their relationship, not act like it doesn't exist,' the friend said.

Though she's been 'shocked and heartbroken,' sources say she's trying to keep things upbeat for fans: 'She's raging, shocked and heartbroken at the same time, but, as usual, is trying to put a brave face on things by keeping posting 'happy' social media snaps.'

Their packed calendars haven't helped either.

The rumours come after the actor is thought to have called it quits with girlfriend Kylie Jenner (pictured in March 2025)

One insider familiar with the situation said, 'It's really strained things,' adding that Jenner has been the one 'reaching out, calling, visiting  but she's beginning to feel like she's putting in all the effort'.

That imbalance is starting to take its toll.

'She's traveled everywhere to support Timothee, but he rarely returns the favor. It's starting to really bother her,' the source said.

Industry insiders, however, say Chalamet simply isn't the type to put his relationships front and center.

'He's never been the kind of person to make his relationships part of the spotlight,' one told Radar.
Brendan 'Jonesy' Jones put his career on the line for his Gold FM co-host Amanda Keller.

This year, the Gold FM Sydney breakfast duo released their book Pump Up The Jam to celebrate 20 years on the radio waves together.

In the tome, the 57-year-old lifted the lid on the lengths he went to secure his co-host on the show in 2004.

With ratings tanking and his former co-host Kayley Harris leaving the platform, things weren't looking good for Gold FM, known as WSFM at the time.

'We were coming fifth in a five horse race, and I thought, "theyre going to get rid of me!"' he told news.com.au on Friday.

Jonesy, who had previously worked with Amanda, 63, at Triple J, urged WSFM to bring her on board as his new co-host, guaranteeing them that the show would reach number one with her behind the mic.

Brendan 'Jonesy' Jones (pictured) put his career on the line for his Gold FM co-host Amanda Keller

This year, the Gold FM Sydney breakfast duo released their book Pump Up The Jam to celebrate 20 years on the radio waves together (Pictured: Brendan 'Jonesy' Jones and Amanda Kellar)

Encouraging them to offer her whatever she wanted, Jonesy even went as far as to bet his own job on their success, adding that management could fire him without paying out his already-signed three-year contract if they didn't make number one within the year.

'All I wanted to do was work a breakfast show with her and I knew it would work,' he said.

Jonesy's big risk paid off, with the radio duo nabbing the number one spot on the Sydney breakfast show charts within nine months, beginning a fruitful radio partnership that would span two decades.

Despite their longstanding success on-air, Amanda and 'Jonesy' addressed reports in August that they were being booted from their Sydney breakfast slot to make way for a Melbourne star.

Jonesy & Amanda will be moved to the Gold 101.7 drive slot in 2026 after 20 years of waking up with their listeners, while Christian O'Connell expands to take their morning slot.

The radio hosts addressed the news on their FM show, saying they would drag their listeners 'kicking and screaming' to the drive slot with them.

'You and I have some big news. We have re-signed here at Gold. I don't want to say "but", but it's "and"there are going to be some changes,' Amanda said.

'Brendan and I are going to go to the drive shift... We could have stayed doing breakfast for years. We've never fought the hours.'

Jonesy & Amanda will be moved to the Gold 101.7 drive slot in 2026 after 20 years of waking up with their listeners, while Christian O'Connell (pictured) expands to take their morning slot

'We've spent 20 years with you guys. And this is the thing. We're going to drag you kicking and screaming with us to drive,' she continued.

'We've spent every morning with you guys for 20 years, and now we're going to spend time with you later in the day. We're really excited about that.'

Amanda went on to say: 'As long as you guys come with us and listen to us in drive, all is right with the world.'

Listeners were divided by the news, with some saying it was a 'terrible' move, while others were excited to listen to Jonesy & Amanda on the drive home from work.

'Oohhh breakfast won't be the same. I love listening to you guys in the morning,' one person wrote on Instagram.

'This is terrible. Why do we need change? It's working well now,' another added.

'This sounds more like a demotion,' suggested a third.

But someone else commented: 'I will listen to you guys no matter what time of the day or night you're on.'

'I will be following you pair wherever you go,' another agreed.

'Definitely will miss you in the morning! But so glad we will still get to listen to you in the afternoon!' yet another fan wrote.
Pia Whitesell is getting into the festive spirit.

The former Home and Away star shared a glimpse of her huge Christmas tree inside the $57 million LA mega-mansion she shares with her Hollywood agent husband Patrick on Thursday.

The 42-year-old was putting stunning crystal baubles on the fairy-lit tree, which is situated in their giant plush living room.

Pia, her husband, and her family dressed the fir after enjoying Thanksgiving dinner in their chic dining room.

The second the plates are cleared, she captioned footage of the impressive tree.

She also posted a photo of the impressive food and Champagne spread the family were enjoying.

Pia Whitesell is getting into the festive spirit

The former Home and Away star shared a glimpse of her huge Christmas tree inside the $57 million LA mega-mansion she shares with her Hollywood agent husband Patrick on Thursday

Pia recently gave her fans a look inside the $57million LA mega-mansion she shares with Patrick.

She revealed a glimpse at her lavish living quarters in an Instagram Stories post.

The image depicted the high arches in the spacious abode which featured a neon pink artwork on the wall.

There were also black couches and beige seats, as well as another grey marble seating area.

Hollywood power player Patrick, 60, is the proud owner of the AUD$57million Tuscan-style home in Holmby Hills, Los Angeles.

He is the executive chairman of Endeavor talent agency and is widely considered one of the most influential men in movies with a client list including Ben Affleck, Hugh Jackman and Kate Beckinsale.

The home features a resort-style swimming pool, a driveway lined with olive trees, and even its own maid's quarters for staff.

It spans more than 19,000 sq ft, and sits on 1.35 acres of land.

Pia also shared all of the fancy food and Champagne the family were enjoying on Thanksgiving

Pia recently gave her fans a look inside the $57million LA mega-mansion she shares with Patrick.

Hollywood power player Patrick, 60, is the proud owner of the AUD$57million Tuscan-style home in Holmby Hills, Los Angeles

The glamorous brunette, who is mother to teenage sons Isaiah and Lennox from two previous relationships, married Patrick in May 2021. Pictured with Patrick

The couple, who tied the knot in secret in 2021, gave their home a makeover before moving in, with extensive renovations taking place while they lived in their oceanfront property in Malibu.

Their Holmby Hills home has a top-of-the-range security system and gated driveway, and privacy is guaranteed because it cannot be seen from the street.

The mansion has a luxurious but cosy feel inside, featuring ornate high ceilings, fireplaces throughout as well as a dramatic foyer.

There's also a gourmet kitchen, a library and home theatre, in addition to a smaller guest house on the grounds.

Holmby Hills is one of LA's most exclusive neighbourhoods. The Whitesells' new home is close to the AUD$220million mansion built for the late TV executive Aaron Spelling and his widow, Candy Spelling.
Kim Kardashian's 12-year-old daughter North West doesn't mince words when it comes to critiquing her mom's outfits and in this week's episode of The Kardashians, she outdid herself.

The precocious tween told her mom that 'people hate' on her ensembles 'every year.'

Despite the tough talk coming from her first born, Kardashian, 45, didn't seem to mind - too much.

The episode took viewers back to the build-up hours before the Met Gala in May 2025 and featured the mother-of-four getting ready for her big entrance.

'Last night, North came in my room. She gave me the cutest little balloon that says, 'Good Luck,' and some flowers,' Kardashian told an off-camera producer while getting her hair and makeup done.

The scene cut back to the night before when Kardashian was lounging on the bed of her hotel and North walked in with a bouquet of flowers.

Kim Kardashian's 12-year-old daughter North West doesn't mince words when it comes to critiquing her mom's outfits and in this week's episode of The Kardashians, she outdid herself

The tween told her mom 'people hate' her ensembles 'every year'; Kim and North are pictured on April 23

'Oh, my gosh! Where did you get these? You know what? This made my day,' the reality star told her daughter.

Kardashian confessed she was worried about a snag having to do with her Chrome Hearts black leather dress and the reaction she would get. The issue had her wanting to bail on the bash altogether.

North told her mom like it was, 'What's the worst that could happen? People hate on your outfit? They do that every year.

'You just have to go - that's it,' North concluded.

Kardashian appeared to be relieved, saying, 'You're my motivating factor.'

The legal eagle's style team solved the fitting issue by cutting the dress in two.

'We ended up cutting it up - the dress - in two pieces,' she said in Thursday's episode because 'the proportions weren't right.'

Once at the event held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Kardashian told Vogue that North was 'a big critiquer' of what she wears but that her daughter has become 'pretty good' with how she delivers her opinions.

Kardashian, who is also mom to Saint, Chicago and Psalm with ex-husband Kanye West, said of North, 'She's also in a really positive place right now, where it's just like, 'Hey, even if that's not my style, I'm not going to critique that, just be you and if you like that, then that's what you should be into.''

Thursday's episode took viewers back to the build-up hours before the Met Gala in May and featured the mother-of-four getting ready for her big entrance

Kim was touched when North brought her flowers especially at a time when she was worrying about a snag having to do with the Chrome Hearts black leather dress she was planning to wear to the NYC bash

The worried mom contemplated skipping the event but North encouraged her to go, saying, 'What's the worst that could happen? People hate on your outfit? They do that every year'

North stood firm and told Kim, 'You just have to go - that's it'

North famously bashed her mom's look at the 2023 Met Gala, saying the Schiaparelli ensemble that featured 50,000 freshwater pearls looked like something straight out of the 'dollar store'

This wasn't the first time North stepped on Kardashian's train.

The pre-teen famously bashed her mom's look at the 2023 Met Gala, saying the Schiaparelli ensemble that featured 50,000 freshwater pearls looked like something straight out of the 'dollar store.'

'It looks like she's a Hawaiian girl with her dress all ripped,' North said on a 2023 episode of The Kardashians. 'The pearls look fake.'

North also compared the Balenciaga gown she wore to the 2021 Met Gala to a 'plastic bag.'

Kardashian tried to keep a chin up, saying at the time, 'You can't really take it seriously, getting roasted by a 10-year-old. I never do,' adding, 'but it stings a little.'
Kim Kardashian aired out her frustrations over co-parenting with ex-husband Kanye West on the latest episode of The Kardashians.

The 45-year-old mother-of-four voiced her angst over conflicts with her ex, 48, during a car ride with sister Kourtney Kardashian's baby daddy Scott Disick.

The billionaire mogul admitted she sometimes feels like 'snapping' over the challenging relationship with her former spouse, to whom she was wed from 2014 until her February 2021 divorce filing.

'I'm sorry about all that you're going through. It looks stressful,' Scott acknowledged in the scene. 'I mean, I see some stuff [online], and it's like, "f**k."'

Kim said she finds it 'frustrating' when the Chicago-bred rapper questions her 'character as a mom.'

'Sometimes I just feel like snapping, but I can't. I just can't,' the SKIMS founder lamented.

Kim Kardashian aired out her frustrations over co-parenting with ex-husband Kanye West on the latest episode of The Kardashians

The billionaire mogul admitted she sometimes feels like 'snapping' over the challenging relationship with her former spouse, to whom she was wed from 2014 until her February 2021 divorce filing; pictured in 2019

Kim insisted that she's tried to forge a healthy relationship between the Yeezy designer and their kids: North, 12, Saint, nine, Chicago, seven, and Psalm, six.

When an off-camera producer highlighted that Kim's 'ex is very loud out there,' she replied, 'I just can't really engage. I think it's just for the better.'

She said her 'only focus and job' is to stay 'strong' for their brood as the more consistent and present parent.

The Daily Mail has contacted West's representatives for comment.

In 2022 the multihyphenate broke down into tears as she discussed parenting alongside Kanye.

During an appearance on the Angie Martinez IRL podcast, she explained that she has tried to shield her kids from 'all of the crazy s***' that comes with her ex's public outbursts.

However, she said that if they after question her about it in the future she will be 'prepared' to answer.

The All's Fair actress got choked up as she discussed their public divorce and compared her children's childhood to hers, during which she raised by late attorney Robert Kardashian.

'I had the best dad. I don't want to get emotional. It has just been a day for me. It's hard. S*** like co-parenting, it's really f***ing hard, you know?' she said through teary eyes.

Kim and Kanye tied the knot in Italy in 2014, less than one year after North was born.

The Vogue cover star filed for divorce in February 2021, and it was finalized the following year.

Kanye is now married to Australian model and arcihtect Bianca Censori, 30.

The 45-year-old mother-of-four voiced her angst over conflicts with her ex, 48, during a car ride with sister Kourtney Kardashian's baby daddy Scott Disick

Kim insisted that she's tried to forge a healthy relationship between the Yeezy designer and their kids: North, 12, Saint, nine, Chicago, seven, and Psalm, six

Kim insisted that she's tried to forge a healthy relationship between the Yeezy designer and their kids

The Keeping Up With the Kardashians alum also spoke about her doomed marriage while on Alex Cooper's Call Her Daddy podcast in October.

When Alex asked about the last time Kanye saw their children, she replied, 'Hmm. Whenever he'll call them and ask. It's probably been a couple months since we've heard from him.'

Despite the difficulties of navigating her and her kids' relationship with their father  who has become increasingly erratic in recent years  Kim insisted that she has 'never once' kept them apart.

As for why she never publicly refutes the 'narrative' that she denies her ex-husband his parenting time, Kim explained she's 'just not that girl online that's gonna fight back.'

However, she confessed that she's come close and emphasized that her situation is 'not easy' and 'really sucks.'
The Man In The Mask: An Orkney Murder (BBC2)

Rating:

Please spare a thought for the people who write detective dramas. They can try as hard as they like, but they'll never produce anything as dramatic and mysterious as real life. In evidence, I refer you to

The Man In The Mask: An Orkney Murder. One evening in June 1994, a waiter called Shamsuddin Mahmood was working at a restaurant in Kirkwall, the largest town in Orkney.

The restaurant was fairly busy, and at about 7.15pm he was taking an order at a table when a man in a balaclava calmly walked in and shot Shamsuddin in the head at point-blank range.

'It was like a scene out of an American gangster movie,' said one witness.

Police struggled from the start. There was no obvious motive. The victim, who was 26, had arrived in the UK from Bangladesh in 1991. He was friendly, popular, and had no enemies.

But then, the investigation took an astonishing turn that divides opinion in Orkney to this very day.

Suspicion fell on a 15-year-old schoolboy called Michael Ross, who'd been spotted in woods a fortnight before the attack, dressed in a balaclava that he later destroyed.

To add another twist, his father was a police constable in Kirkwall and was involved in the inquiry (he was later jailed for withholding evidence).

Shamsuddin Mahmood in waistcoast inthe restaurant he worked in

Eddy and Moira Ross, holding a photograph of their son, Michael

Yet forensic officers found no evidence linking Ross to the murder. The weapon was never found, and he had no obvious connection to the victim.

Then, more than a decade after the crime, a witness reported having seen him in nearby public toilets with a gun and a balaclava.

'It's a story full of twists and turns,' said journalist Hazel

Martin, presenting this very thorough three-part investigation. 'Newsroom colleagues would talk about it as one of the strangest cases they'd ever reported on.'

She has been given access to witness statements and interviews with Ross. She has spoken with his parents, and some of the officers involved. And the truth is, the case is still as baffling as ever.

Ross, who went on to serve in the Army in Iraq and rose to the rank of sergeant, was convicted of murder in 2008 and jailed for 25 years. He still maintains his innocence.

As one supporter told Martin: 'How could this have been a 15-year-old boy? It's not the kind of crime that is committed by a 15-year-old boy in Orkney.'

To emphasise his age, we were told that police had to take him out of a PE lesson before they could question him.

On the other hand, young Ross was very keen on guns. In his room, police found a deactivated sub-machine gun  a present from his dad.

The walls were covered with pictures of guns and tanks. In the house, officers also found five pistols, two revolvers, three rifles and a shotgun.

Whatever your view on the verdict, he certainly wasn't your average teenager.

CHRISTOPHER STEVENS is away
Radio star Robin Bailey has been left devastated after her radio show was axed.

The KIIS FM host looked very emotional outside her Brisbane studios after it was revealed she and her fellow breakfast stars Kip Wightman and Corey Oates were wrapping up their show two weeks early.

She was seen leaning against a car wiping away tears from her cheek.

Robin, who first arrived on the Brisbane radio scene in 1995, was glassy-eyed and had her arms across her chest, clearly distressed by the ordeal.

She was later seen pausing on the stairs to gather herself before re-entering the building.

The 55-year-old wore a pair of snakeskin mini shorts and a brown shirt, complete with layered bangles and a pair of Birkenstock thongs.

Robin Bailey (pictured) is looking worse for wear after her radio show was axed

The KIIS FM host was pictured on Friday looking notably emotional outside the Brisbane studios after it was revealed that she and her fellow breakfast stars Kip Wightman and Corey Oates were wrapping up their show two weeks early

It was announced in October that Brisbane breakfast hosts Kip, Corey and Robin would be leaving the airwaves by the end of the year.

However, despite claims that they would wrap up their show on December 12, the trio said this week they would be doing their final show this Friday.

They shared a short clip to their Instagram on Thursday with the title '2nd last show stitch-up', confirming their plans to leave earlier than their slated exit.

The surprise departure comes as Kip and Corey revealed their next career move  a Brisbane Broncos-themed podcast with NRL great Sam Thaiday.

The Unofficial Broncos Podcast with Sammy, Oatsey and Kip is slated to launch in February 2026.

Speaking about the pair's new appointment, Kip was quick to joke about their recent unemployment.

'Look, when the radio station said "Were making changes" we thought that meant new chairs,' he said in a statement.

'Turns out the "changes" were us leaving. So yeah, podcasting felt like a natural step down.'

The 55-year-old wore a pair of snakeskin mini shorts and a brown shirt, complete with layered bangles and a pair of Birkenstock thongs, as she was seen leaving the building

She was later seen pausing on the stairs, caught in a moment of thought, before re-entering the building

A self-effacing Corey added that he joined the podcast as he didn't want his KIIS co-star to 'suffer alone'.

'Kip lost his job, and I thought, why should he suffer alone?' he said.

'Besides, Sammy said hed shout lunch if I joined, and Im easily convinced.'

News of the trio's axing came just a couple of months after former Brisbane Broncos star Corey signed on to the show after retiring from the NRL last year.

In a statement released by ARN, it was revealed that the show's final broadcast will air on December 12.

A spokesperson went on to praise the hosts for their 'hard work, creativity and commitment to the Brisbane audience.'

'Their contribution has been significant and will be celebrated in the weeks ahead,' the statement added.

However, the trio's replacement  Craig 'Lowie' Low  raised more than a few eyebrows when announced in October.

Insiders slammed the appointment with one telling the Courier Mail the shock jock was a 'poor man's Kyle Sandilands'.

'I feel so bad that the team is going to be replaced with someone like that,' the source said. 'It just makes me sick.'
An Australian rock icon cut a very casual figure when he stepped out in Sydney this week.

Legendary AC/DC guitarist Angus Young was taking a well-earned break from the band's Australian tour on Friday with his wife of 45 years Ellen van Lochem.

The couple were out and about to enjoy some yum-cha, and Angus, 70, looked a far cry from his on-stage schoolboy persona.

The Thunderstruck rocker wore a light grey T-shirt and a pair of form-fitting light blue jeans.

He finished the casual look with a pair of Converse Chuck Taylor sneakers, leaving his long, silver mane to blow in the breeze.

Wife Ellen, meanwhile, put on quite the colourful display in an abstract-patterned dress in pink, blue and purple tones.

Legendary AC/DC guitarist Angus Young, 70, took a well-earned break from the band's Australian tour this week, stepping out for lunch with his wife of 45 years Ellen van Lochem

She also carried a large multicoloured crochet tote bag and wore her blonde locks back in a tight bun.

The couple looked to be enjoying their downtime, happily chatting as they made their way to the restaurant.

After two massive shows at Melbourne's Rod Laver Arena, AC/DC were hailed 'hometown heroes' when they rolled into Sydney last week.

They did it in fine style, too  with a gigantic 21-song setlist that included some of their most iconic tracks.

Opening the set with their 1978 classic If You Want Blood (You've Got It), the band held an adoring crowd at Accor Stadium in the palm of its hand until the two-song encore of T.N.T. and the triumphant For Those About to Rock We Salute You.

Angus was a picture of energy and rock and roll swagger as he commanded the stage with his iconic strut.

Ever the schoolboy, Angus also wore his trademark uniform, this time swapping the bright red shorts and blazer he had worn for the first Melbourne show for a deep purple tone.

He added a pop of colour to his trademark outfit by donning a bright yellow schoolboy cap emblazoned with a large 'A'.

The couple were out and about to enjoy some yum-cha, and Angus looked a far cry from his on-stage schoolboy persona

The Thunderstruck rocker wore a light grey T-shirt and a pair of form-fitting light blue jeans. He finished the casual look with a pair of Converse Chuck Taylor sneakers, leaving his long, silver mane to blow in the breeze

Wife Ellen, meanwhile, put on quite the colourful display in an abstract-patterned dress in pink, blue and purple tones

Expertly slinging a black Gibson SG guitar, Angus looked in his element, running around the stage with abandon.

The fans looked to be lapping up every second of the powerhouse performance, too.

Photos showed an ecstatic crowd beaming with pure rock and roll glee as they took in the triumphant set, many wearing AC/DC-branded devil horns.

The show elicited a flurry of excitement from fans on social media, too.

The band shared a 'thank you, Sydney' post to Instagram after the show, which was met with a swarm of reciprocated love.

Married At First Sight star Dean Wells offered a gushing: 'Outta control! Still the best rock band of all time.'

Dean also took to his own Instagram to document the gig, and continued to gush about the iconic rockers.

'This has got to be the toughest generation in history,' he wrote over a clip of Angus.

She also carried a large multicoloured crochet tote bag and wore her blonde locks back in a tight bun

The couple looked to be enjoying their downtime, happily chatting as they made their way to the restaurant

After two massive shows at Melbourne's Rod Laver Arena, AC/DC were hailed 'hometown heroes' when they rolled into Sydney last week. Angus is pictured with frontman Brian Johnson, 78

'Every song is about either fighting or war and, at 70 years old, these guys still kick a** over all modern music.'

Another fan echoed Dean's sentiment, saying the band put on a show that belied their age.

'Thankyou hometown heroes. The local lads were unbelievable,' the fan gushed.

'Brian sounded like he did 20 yrs ago & Angus puts any musician to shame with his energy. He runs, struts, and jumps for 2 hrs playing incredible solos.'

A third agreed wholeheartedly with: 'Brian is absolutely killing it. He can run rings around guys half his age.'

The iconic Australian rockers are midway through the Down Under leg of their world Power Up tour.

Now mid-way through the Down Under leg of their global Power Up tour, AC/DC will play the bp Adelaide Grand Final on Sunday before heading to Perth's Optus Stadium on December 4 and 8.

They will round out the run with a further two shows at Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium on December 14 and 18.
Meghan King's ex-husband Jim Edmonds shared a sweet family photo with their three children on Friday, after being awarded temporary custody.

The former athlete, 55, looked every inch the doting father as he and his wife Kortnie Edmonds posed with his daughter Aspen, nine, and twin sons Hart and Hayes, seven.

Edmonds captioned the outdoors snap, 'Lots of love.'

It comes after former Real Housewives of Orange County star Meghan, 41, spent Thanksgiving away from her kids, after losing custody last week.

Though the reality TV star currently has supervised visitation rights with the children on Tuesdays and Thursdays, they were not with her for the holiday, according to Page Six.

Instead, the kids spent Thanksgiving with their father at his and Kortnie's home in Tennessee.

Meghan King's, 41, ex-husband Jim Edmonds, 55, shared a sweet family photo with their three children and his wife Kortnie on Friday, after being awarded temporary custody

It comes after former Real Housewives of Orange County star Meghan spent Thanksgiving away from her kids, after losing custody last week; Seen in 2020

King, who lives in Missouri, did not share any social media updates about how she spent the holiday this year.

Last week, King  who split from Edmonds in 2019 after five years of marriage  temporarily lost custody of her kids following an investigation by Child Protective Services, reported Page Six.

The Daily Mail has reached out to King's representatives for comment.

A source told Page Six that King allegedly gave Hayes prescription medication that had not been prescribed to him on multiple occasions.

The insider claimed she administered Ritalin, a drug used to treat ADHD, despite Hayes never having been diagnosed with the condition.

Us Weekly first reported that CPS became involved after a staff member at the childrens elementary school contacted authorities, allegedly after King requested that a school nurse administer the medication to Hayes.

Page Six further reported that Edmonds and his wife Kortnie were in Tennessee when CPS contacted him, prompting the couple to fly immediately to Missouri to be with the children.

While Edmonds now holds sole physical custody, King has reportedly been granted supervised visitation twice per week, reports Page Six.

A temporary restraining order has also been issued, with a court hearing scheduled for December 9 to determine whether the current custody arrangement will become permanent, per Page Six.

Instead, her daughter Aspen, nine, and twin sons Hart and Hayes, seven, spent Thanksgiving with their father and his wife at their home in Tennessee

Though the reality TV star currently has supervised visitation rights with the kids on Tuesdays and Thursdays, they were not with her for the holiday, according to Page Six

King  who split from Edmonds in 2019 after five years of marriage  temporarily lost custody of her kids following an investigation by Child Protective Services

King allegedly gave Hayesn the prescription medication Ritalin  a drug used to treat ADHD  on multiple occasions, despite Hayes never having been diagnosed with the condition

Former RHOC co-star Kelly Dodd appeared to confirm the situation in a TikTok video posted Thursday, revealing that she had spoken to King following the reports.

So I just got off the phone with Meghan King Edmonds, Dodd said.

And she said that she gave one of her other twins Hayes some Ritalin, I guess, and it made her a dangerous mother.

Despite acknowledging past conflicts, Dodd defended King, calling her a devoted parent.

Weve had a lot of differences but she loves those babies, she loves those kids, and I know for a fact shes a good mother, Dodd insisted. She is an excellent mother.

Dodd added that she was praying for her former co-star and urged followers to do the same, captioning her video: #meghanking pray for her.. She lost custody of her kids! #prayers #losingcustodyoftheirkids.

Earlier this week King shared a heartfelt birthday tribute to her eldest child, Aspen, who turned nine.

'The brightest light, my greatest joy. A spectacular gift from God was born 9 years ago today.'

'When I learned what love is. I love you Aspen King Edmonds. I love you to infinity, she wrote alongside a smiling photo of her daughter, whom she called her favorite female to ever walk the planet.

The custody dispute follows a series of public disputes between King and Edmonds, including police being called earlier this year after King allegedly refused to leave his home.

King and Edmonds married in 2014 and finalized their divorce in 2021.

King and Edmonds married in 2014 and finalized their divorce in 2021. Edmonds later married former Playboy model Kortnie in 2022; Seen with King in 2018

Edmonds later married former Playboy model Kortnie OConnor in 2022, just two months after his divorce from King was finalized.

The exes have also publicly clashed over their son Harts medical diagnosis, with King stating he has cerebral palsy while Edmonds maintains he has periventricular leukomalacia (PVL), a condition involving brain white matter damage.

King was briefly married to lawyer Cuffe Biden Owens, nephew of President Joe Biden, in 2021.

The marriage ended just two months later and was annulled in July 2022.
Bristol Palin shared an update on her scary battle with facial paralysis while celebrating Thanksgiving with family near her Austin, Texas home on Thursday.

The 35-year-old Austin Home Seekers realtor - who boasts 989,000 social media followers - shared an Instastory featuring herself and nine-year-old daughter Sailor Grace Meyer detailing their festive 'fits' for turkey day.

'Black skinnies, black long sleeve, same denim shirt I wear all the time, vintage Louis Vuitton,' Palin listed off.

'...and still a crooked face,' the star added.

In August, during day 194 of her condition, the nepo baby of former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin had said her face was 'slowly getting better.'

Palin was diagnosed with a form of Bell's palsy in January, revealing: 'I woke up and it was paralyzed, completely out of the blue - no warning, wasn't sick, didn't get the [vaccine], no recent Botox... just paralyzed.'

November vs. January: Bristol Palin shared an update on her scary battle with facial paralysis while celebrating Thanksgiving with family near her Austin, TX home on Thursday

The Boy Hart founder quit caffeine and processed foods and she's undergone numerous treatments to help speed up her recovery including acupuncture, massage, oxygen chamber treatment and red light therapy.

Most people completely recover from Bell's palsy in about six months, which means Palin is suffering from a more severe version of the short-term muscle weakness condition.

Some experts think the facial droop is caused by irritation of the nerve that controls muscles on one side of the face while others believe it's a reaction to a viral infection such as herpes or mononucleosis - according to the Mayo Clinic.

Other celebrities who've reportedly come down with Bell's palsy include George Clooney, Angelina Jolie, The Bachelorette alum Emily Maynard Johnson and wrestling announcer Jim Ross.

The house flipper also welcomed eight-year-old daughter Atlee Bay Meyer during her 19-month marriage to Medal of Honor-winning Marine Dakota Meyer, which ended in 2018.

Palin was only 18 when she and her high school sweetheart-turned-fiance Levi Johnston welcomed their 16-year-old son Tripp Easton before splitting five years later in 2010.

The NY Times bestselling author's pregnancy was announced at the 2008 Republican National Convention and caused a mini-scandal in the vice presidential campaign of her 61-year-old mother.

The 35-year-old Austin Home Seekers realtor shared an Instastory featuring herself and nine-year-old daughter Sailor detailing their festive 'fits' for turkey day

'Black skinnies, black long sleeve, same denim shirt I wear all the time, vintage Louis Vuitton,' Palin listed off

'...and still a crooked face,' she lamented

In August, during day 194 of her condition, the nepo baby of former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin had said her face was 'slowly getting better'

Palin was diagnosed with a form of Bell's palsy in January, revealing: 'I woke up and it was paralyzed, completely out of the blue - no warning, wasn't sick, didn't get the [vaccine], no recent Botox... just paralyzed'

The Boy Hart founder is also mother to eight-year-old daughter Atlee (2-L, pictured September 1) with ex-husband Dakota Meyer and 16-year-old son Tripp (2-R) with ex-fiance Levi Johnston

Palin's pregnancy at age 18 was announced at the 2008 Republican National Convention and caused a mini-scandal in the vice presidential campaign of her 61-year-old mother (R)

Last year, Tripp made the decision to move to Alaska to live with his 35-year-old father, who welcomed three homeschooled daughters with wife Sunny Oglesby Johnston.

'As hard as it is for me, and it's so hard for my girls too, I know that he needs to grow that relationship with his dad,' Palin said on the Sex, Lies, and Spray Tans podcast last year.

'And he loves Alaska so much, he's hunting and fishing all the time. So I know that it's going to be a good thing.'

The former teen mom visits the aspiring motocross rider 'every other month' and speaks with him via FaceTime 'every day before and after school.'

As for future plans, Palin said in July she'd 'never push college' as Tripp 'wants to work' and 'have his hand in some sort of real estate/development.'

The 5ft6in brunette competed on two season of ABC dance competition, Dancing with the Stars, in 2010 (placing third) and 2012 (placing ninth).

Meanwhile, Tripp and his dance partner Hailey Bills were the first pair eliminated in ABC spin-off Dancing with the Stars: Juniors in 2018.
Big Brother Australia housemates Holly Young and Coco Beeby certainly made the most of the Gold Coast sun this week.

The pair were spotted taking a break from reality show drama on Friday, working on their tans poolside.

They were the picture of rest and relaxation as they reclined on large folding beach chairs.

Holly, 31, flaunted her bronzed form in a white two-piece bikini which showed off her trim and taut torso.

She also put on quite the leggy display, thanks to the skimpy, side-tied bikini bottoms.

Reclining on a blue and white striped towel, Holly protected herself from the sun with a blue visor cap with a wide brim that almost obscured her face.

Big Brother housemates Holly Young and Coco Beeby certainly made the most of the Gold Coast sun this week. The pair were spotted taking a break from reality show drama on Friday, working on their tans poolside

Coco, 30, meanwhile, put on a similarly summery display, wearing a lemon-coloured bikini top and patterned bottoms that stood out against her bronzed body.

Looking similarly relaxed and beach-ready on a red and white striped towel, Coco also went sun-smart for her tanning session, wearing a camouflage-patterned cap.

The pair were joined by fellow housemate Allana Jackson, 45, who sauntered up to the pair wrapped in a blue and white towel.

The arrival of a third did not disturb Holly and Coco's rest and relaxation, though, with the pair continuing to work on their tans as they chatted.

Holly and Coco have not been immune from criticism during their time in the house.

This week, viewers took to social media to slam some of the contestants  including Holly and Coco after offensive comments were heard on the livestream

One scene showed Conor Maysey, 31, who has Tourette syndrome, complaining to Colin Ridley, 21, about his girlfriend Holly, who allegedly told the disability advocate that she understood him because she knows people who have Down syndrome.

The comment left Conor feeling 'horrific'.

Holly, 31, flaunted her bronzed form in a white two-piece bikini which showed off her trim and taut torso. She also put on quite the leggy display, thanks to the skimpy, side-tied bikini bottoms

Reclining on a blue and white striped towel, Holly protected herself from the sun with a blue visor cap with a wide brim that almost obscured her face

Another incident in the Big Brother house saw Conor allegedly make an ableist joke, however the livestream was said to have been cut short by producers in an attempt to avoid scrutiny.

Despite this, the moment was uploaded on Reddit and viewers slammed the multiple remarks made by the contestants, including one comment by Coco, who is said to have dropped the offensive term 'spaz' while in the house.

'The producers of this show fell short on who they chose as housemates,' one person complained on TikTok.

Another chimed in: 'Friendly reminder Holly also called people "downies".'

'Its called empathy, something Holly doesnt have,' a third penned.

Other countries have decided to scrap live-streaming on Big Brother, with the censoring of offensive language made increasingly difficult when it comes to 24/7 filming.

'This is exactly why the livestream disappeared for years,' an insider told Pedestrian.tv.

'You cannot control "casual racism" on a reality show' they added, also claiming that an editing delay fails to protect anyone.

Coco, 30, meanwhile, put on a similarly summery display, wearing a lemon-coloured bikini top and patterned bottoms that stood out against her bronzed body

The arrival of a third did not disturb Holly and Coco's rest and relaxation, though, with the pair continuing to work on their tans as they chatted

Holly and Coco have not been immune from criticism during their time in the Big Brother house.

Holly has also drawn the ire of some of the housemates, particularly Abiola Oreyomi who was reduced to tears after a clash with holly on the subject of 'pretty privilege'.

Evicted housemate Michael Downes also threw some shade at Holly on Star 104.5 FM's Gina and Matty show, claiming that she, and her on-camera relationship with housemate Colin was 'fake'.

'So if you think Holly's fake, does that mean that Holly and Colin's romance is fake as well?' host Matt Baseley asked.

Michael didn't mince words, replying: 'Mate 100 per cent, everybody knows that.'

'I said that ain't lasting until halfway down the eviction runway... that's not a thing!'
Gemma Collins has threatened to sue ITV for damages over a 'highly offensive' sketch created of her to promote I'm A Celeb All Stars.

The TOWIE star, 44, filmed the spinoff in South Africa alongside Sir Mo Farah, Harry Redknapp, Ashley Roberts, and Scarlett Moffatt, all of whom have agreed to brave the jungle for a second time.

But Gemma says she was left 'hurt' and 'upset' by a caricature sketch created of each contestant by ITV to promote the series, calling her own picture 'highly offensive' and 'damn right disgusting.'

She even threatened legal action over the 'unflattering' promotional material, questioning why the show's stars are being turned into a 'laughing stock' despite giving their all to the program.

The reality personality made her feelings known to producers in a group WhatsApp chat, where she refused to share her caricature with the rest of the cast.

Gemma first appeared on I'm A Celeb in 2014, famously quitting the show after just three days due to the lack of food and tough living conditions.

Gemma Collins has threatened to sue ITV for damages over a 'highly offensive' sketch created of her to promote I'm A Celeb All Stars

The TOWIE star first appeared on I'm A Celeb in 2014, famously quitting the show after just three days due to the lack of food and tough living conditions

The reality personality made her feelings known to producers in a group WhatsApp chat, where she refused to share her caricature with the rest of the cast

A source revealed: 'Caricature sketches were made of each of the celebrities taking part in I'm A Celeb All Stars.

'It was meant to be a bit of fun to use for promotional purposes when the show is officially announced, and most of the contestants could see the funny side. But Gemma was really upset by her image.

'She has worked hard over the years to feel confident in her own skin, and it was difficult for her to see herself portrayed in such an exaggerated way, which definitely felt unkind.

'Gemma also felt frustrated, given all the hard work and energy she had put into filming I'm A Celeb All Stars. Even returning to the show, when she hated it so much the first time, she didn't expect to be made a laughing stock.'

A source added: 'There is no dispute, and anything that upset Gemma has now been rectified.

'There was a creative process involved, with some back and forth, but everyone has been able to move forward.'

I'm A Celeb All Stars is set to air early next year and will also feature former contestants David Haye, Seann Walsh, Sinitta, Adam Thomas, and Beverley Callard.

Producers convinced Gemma, who since leaving TOWIE has fronted a successful BBC podcast and is currently filming her new reality series Four Weddings and a Baby, to take part after she only lasted three days during her first stint.

The Daily Mail has contacted Gemma's representative and ITV for comment.

Producers convinced Gemma, who since leaving TOWIE has fronted a BBC podcast and is currently filming her new reality series, to take part after she only latest three days in 2014

Before heading to the jungle, Gemma later revealed that she had been robbed and attacked, which explained her vulnerable position on the show

The current series of I'm A Celeb is airing on ITV, and on Friday evening's show the first celebrity will be voted out of the competition

Before heading to the jungle, Gemma later revealed that she had been robbed and attacked, which explained her vulnerable position on the show.

Once Gemma left the camp in 2014, she explained her version of events, saying: 'What a lot of people didn't know is that 24 hours before I went in, something really bad happened to me, and I had quite serious injuries, injuries to my head and all over my body.

'But I didn't want to let anyone down, and I was like, I've got to do this; it's such a massive opportunity.

'But when I got into the jungle, everyone was saying I had only been in there for two days, when I had actually been in there for six. I had just been through so much trauma, and when I got in there, the shock came out.'

Now in a much better place both mentally and physically, Gemma, who is engaged to fiance Rami Hawash, took on the jungle for a second time to show how far she has come since her first appearance.

After having one of the most successful years of her career thanks to multiple lucrative brand deals and securing her own TV series, Gemma hopes that viewers will see her in a much better light compared to in 2014.

The current series of I'm A Celeb is airing on ITV, and on Friday evening's show the first celebrity will be voted out of the competition.

After going head-to-head during the rivals challenge, the losing contestants, Aitch, Jack Osbourne, Alex Scott, Angry Ginge, Martin Kemp, Kelly Brook, and Ruby Wax, are up for the first public vote.
Simon Cowell's fiancee Lauren Silverman gave a sneak peek inside their home as she celebrated Thanksgiving with her family on Thursday.

The socialite, 48, who moved to a lavish 8M Cotswolds farmhouse with the music mogul in 2021, 66, took to her Instagram story to repost a sweet selfie of herself and a family member standing in the beautiful main entrance of their home.

Her home, which has now been decorated for the festive season, features a large green Christmas tree as a centrepiece in the hallway.

The tree, which twinkled with warm fairy lights, was warmly decorated with red and silver baubles and featured a gold star tree topper.

Large black-and-white picture frames were also hung on the walls, and her main entrance boasted polished porcelain tiles and a beautiful wrap-around staircase.

Meanwhile, a long drop stairwell cluster chandelier lit up the main entrance and staircase.

Simon Cowell's fiancee Lauren Silverman, 48, gave a sneak peek inside the main entrance of their beautifully decorated home as she celebrated Thanksgiving with her family on Thursday

Meanwhile, her fiance, Simon, 66, also gave viewers a glimpse of their dining room and living room as he took to his Instagram to post a video of himself chilling with his beloved Yorkshire Terriers, Squiddy and Diddly

Lauren's fiance, Simon, also took to his Instagram on Thursday to post a video of himself chilling in his dining room with his beloved Yorkshire Terriers, Squiddy and Diddly.

In the background, a large wooden storage unit can be seen at the side, which features wine glasses on display and modern black-framed glass doors.

Meanwhile, viewers also got the chance to catch a glimpse of his living room, which featured black-and-white vintage picture frames and a large grey sofa.

It comes as Simon is preparing for the launch of his new Netflix talent show.

And despite anticipation surrounding the launch, the star enjoyed a relaxing boat trip with his fiancee Lauren, their son and his stepson on Wednesday.

The stunning socialite looked radiant in the snap as she posed in a skimpy white bikini while sitting alongside her clan on the back of the boat.

Simon and Lauren share son Eric, 11, while Lauren is mother to son Adam, 19, with her businessman ex-husband Andrew Silverman.

She shared a caption reading: 'Grateful for this. Wishing everyone a happy thanksgiving. Whether you celebrate it or not...'

It comes after Lauren marked Thanksgiving with a sweet snap, as she posed on a boat with her fiance Simon Cowell, their son Eric, 11, and her son Adam, 19

The star has been with music mogul Simon since 2013 and recently changed her Instagram handle to use the name Cowell in a hint that the pair have married (seen together in 2022)

It comes after Lauren broke her silence on filming a Netflix show with her partner Simon, describing it as 'terrifying'.

The star has been with music mogul Simon since 2013 and recently changed her Instagram handle to use the name Cowell in a hint that the pair have married.

The couple first met in Barbados in 2004, but didn't start dating until around 2012. They welcomed their son Eric in 2014 and got engaged in 2021.

Now Lauren has spoken about her nerves surrounding the release of Simon's upcoming Netflix show - in which notoriously private Lauren makes regular features.

The recent trailer showed an array of scenes featuring Lauren, where she expressed concern over Simon's health and even at one point walks out of filming after a tense exchange.

Sharing the trailer on social media on Tuesday, Lauren said: 'My first Instagram post! Everyone who knows me, knows how private I am, so the past two years on this project has been such a new experience.

'This is something we have been working on as a family every day, and I am SO proud of Simon and the whole team.'

She added: 'It's terrifying but so exciting at the same time, and I really hope you all love the series when it drops on @netflix December 10! Lauren X.'
Amber Heard gave a rare insight into her family life as she shared an array of unseen photos from Thanksgiving celebrations over the years.

The 39-year-old actress took to Instagram on Friday to share an array of snaps from her years of family dinners, as well as a rare picture of her eldest daughter Oonagh when she was younger.

The first snap showed Amber posing behind a huge spread, which included sweet potato casserole, turkey and a massive bowl of mashed potatoes.

In a picture from a different Thanksgiving year, Amber was seen cooking up a storm as she fried chicken in a pan while in another throwback she was seen prepping vegetables with her father David.

She was also seen serving up food at the table as her daughter Oonagh, now four, sat in a high-chair when she was still a toddler. Amber also welcomed twins Agnes and Ocean earlier this year but they were not pictured.

Amber captioned the snaps: 'Thanksgiving cheers over the years. A look back at all the full hearts and plates I've shared.

Amber Heard gave a rare insight into her family life on Instagram on Friday as she shared an array of unseen photos from Thanksgiving celebrations over the years - including one of her daughter Oonagh as a toddler

In another throwback photo, Amber was seen prepping vegetables with her father David and getting ready to serve the turkey

'Hoping you are well topped up on both this year.'

It comes just weeks after Amber brought her twins Ocean and Agnes out in public for the first time as she celebrated Halloween in Madrid, Spain.

She took to Instagram earlier this month with multiple photos of her outing trick-or-treating with the kids, as she was dressed as a witch in a black dress with a pointed hat.

The Aquaman star was accompanied by her daughter Oonagh Paige, four, and five-month-old twins Ocean and Agnes.

'Halloweening with my minnies,' Amber captioned an accompanying post, which had more than 80,000 likes in five hours from her 5 million Instagram followers as of Friday evening.

One of Amber's baby twins had a spider hat on, while the other was wearing an orange pumpkin hat.

Oonagh was clad in striped tights and a witchy dress to match her mum as October drew to a close.

Amber appears to be happily rebuilding her life following years of scandal-ridden litigation linked to her split with ex-husband Johnny Depp, 62.

The first snap showed Amber posing behind a huge spread, which included sweet potato casserole, turkey and a massive bowl of mashed potatoes

The 39-year-old actress took to Instagram on Friday to share an array of snaps from her years of family dinners

In a picture from a different Thanksgiving year, Amber was seen cooking up a storm as she fried chicken in a pan

Amber captioned the snaps: 'Thanksgiving cheers over the years. A look back at all the full hearts and plates I've shared'

Amber addressed welcoming the twins, who she carried, in a Mothers Day post this past May.

'Mother's Day 2025 will be one I'll never forget,' Amber said. 'This year I am elated beyond words to celebrate the completion of the family I've strived to build for years.

'Today I officially share the news that I welcomed twins into the Heard gang. My daughter Agnes and my son Ocean are keeping my hands (and my heart) full.

She continued: 'When I had my first baby girl Oonagh four years ago, my world changed forever.

'I thought I couldn't possibly burst with more joy. Well, now I am bursting times three!!!'

It comes just weeks after Amber brought her twins Ocean and Agnes out in public for the first time as she celebrated Halloween in Madrid, Spain

She took to Instagram earlier this month with multiple photos of her outing trick-or-treating with the kids, as she was dressed as a witch in a black dress with a pointed hat

On a more sombre note, Amber said 'becoming a mother by myself and on my own terms despite my own fertility challenges has been the most humbling experience of my life.'

She added: 'I am eternally grateful that I was able to choose this responsibly and thoughtfully.

'To all the moms, wherever you are today and however you got here, my dream family and I are celebrating with you.'

Amber concluded her post, 'Mama and babies are enjoying every minute. And Oonagh is happily running the show.'
Gemma Collins has opened up about her recent mental health struggles in a festive snap shared to her Instagram on Thursday, just weeks after her mother was taken to the hospital with pneumonia.

The TV personality, 44, who has been keeping her followers updated on her mother Joan, 70, as she recovers in hospital, admitted that behind the glam of the festive photo, she has been struggling the last three weeks and feels 'broken inside'.

She told her followers: 'SOS. Behind the glam of this picture the last three weeks I have been broken inside and so low I cant tell you  Remember its whos round the table and not what gifts you get .

'Normally Im 100 million miles Infront upbeat and organized with mum being in hospital Ive not been able to cope recently everything is too much even getting dressed daily  mum will be home soon and I will be happy again Im sure.

She added: 'Sadly I was let down by my Christmas install company if anyone has a slot and is happy for us to film for sky tv please let me know 

'Is anyone else struggling this year ? Are you feeling it any tips for feeling low Ive never had this before x ITS funny how the gram tells a thousand lies !!!'

Gemma Collins has opened up about her recent mental health struggles in a festive snap shared to her Instagram on Thursday, just weeks after her mother was taken to the hospital with pneumonia (both pictured last year)

The TV personality, 44, who has been keeping her followers updated on her mother Joan, 70, as she recovers in hospital, admitted that behind the glam of the festive photo, she has been struggling the last three weeks and feels 'broken inside'

Gemma's post comes after she shared a health update on her mother, Joan, on Thursday.

The TOWIE icon revealed that Joan is 'slowly on the mend' as she shared a snap of her smiling mother in her hospital bed with family.

She wrote: 'Seeing mummy slowly on the mend today finally is a miracle from above and the incredible doctors and physios at Broomfield hospital. I can't thank you enough.'

Pneumonia is a type of chest infection that affects the tiny air sacs in the lungs. The condition causes these sacs to be become inflamed and fill with fluid, making it harder to breathe.

Almost two weeks ago, Gemma asked fans to pray for her beloved mum Joan, who she revealed was 'really unwell' with pneumonia.

Gemma accompanied the photo with a heartbreaking post which read: 'This week has been the toughest week of my life I didnt know if I was coming or going and still dont my mum is really unwell and I just want to thank the NHS doctors and nurses at BROOMFIELD HOSPITAL CHELMSFORD HOSPITAL FOR looking after mum so well.

'Mum has phenomena [sic] and is really struggling please if you believe in prayer like me please say a prayer for mum to get well asap. Thank you to all my closest for being there for me and for everyone who has reached out to higher powers to help mum you know who you are.'

Gemma continued: 'Also all the friends and family who have visited and keep bringing the love for mum, mum and me always have loved Madonna and her music so its getting me through atm giving me a lift.'

Gemma's post comes after she shared a health update on her mother, Joan, on Thursday (both pictured 2022)

The TOWIE icon revealed that Joan is 'slowly on the mend' as she shared a snap of her smiling mother in her hospital bed with family

Last year, Gemma was told how her mother could die after she was rushed to the hospital after she stopped breathing.

Speaking to The Sun, she said: 'I've had a lot of stress the last couple of weeks.

'My mum was suddenly taken into hospital, and I was told she could die. They would not resuscitate her if she went into cardiac arrest.

'So imagine that, you know, I'm in the hospital having been out for dinner the day before, and then the next day I'm like, "wow", so that was a massive shock.'

Gemma revealed that Joan had been rushed to the hospital and was in intensive care.

The reality TV personality shared sweet snaps with her mum to social media, telling fans Joan is 'really ill at the minute'.

In a video shared to Instagram, Gemma - who has openly spoken about her mother's health struggles in the past - explained: 'My mum is really ill at the minute, she's in intensive care.

'It's been a hell of a time, and you know, I'm really happy, and well, not that happy, because my mum's in intensive care, but she is on the mend, thank god.'

Gemma later wrote: 'Last week I had the shock of my life when my mum stopped breathing. I called an ambulance and was told to prepare for the worst, and would I like to resuscitate her.'

She then reassured worried fans that Joan is now 'stable' and will 'hopefully' be much better soon.
Katie Price revealed she is having 'night sweats' and 'feels sick' as she issued major health update on Thursday after visiting her doctor.

The TV personality, 47, has started hormone replacement therapy to treat menopause symptoms - in a pill and gel format - after her recent weight loss.

Speaking for the first time in detail about the effects of her being on HRT, she discussed how she feels 'worse' but is 'persevering.'

Joining her sister Sophie on their podcast, The Katie Price Show, she explained: 'It's my sixth day today. I've been feeling sick, I'm bloated and I'm very tired.

'I'm not sure if it's the HRT. I'm on two tablets and then I put the gel on my thigh. I didn't want a patch because I thought it might come off.'

'I'm still getting the night sweats, if not worse, but I am persevering. I have one more week of the tablets then it's just the gel.'

Katie Price revealed she is having 'night sweats' and 'feels sick' as she issued major health update on Thursday after visiting her doctor (pictured in May)

The TV personality, 47, has started hormone replacement therapy to treat menopause symptoms - in a pill and gel format - after her recent weight loss (pictured in September 2024)

Katie went on to say: 'Mum would get the night sweats and they do say that things are genetic.'

On a previous episode she said: 'I'm getting old. So I take two tablets every evening for 14 days and I rub gel into my thigh every day.

'Make me nice. I don't know. It will help with the brain fog. It's just the doc told me to go on it.'

The star revealed her mum Amy and step-father Paul were overjoyed with her decision to take the plunge and start taking the medication.

Last month, Katie confessed that she had been hospitalised for her weight loss - which she initially conceded was her aim - however later insisted was baffling doctors and left her needing tests to assess the situation.

Katie told fans on her Snapchat Story that she 'doesn't know why' her frame is shrinking so much as she undergoes tests.

She began: 'I've been up early at the doctors so she could do some bloods and because my veins are so s*** they had three attempts.

'They could only fill two tubes up, so I've got to go back in two weeks. And I've got to have my stitches out then because they looked at my little stab wound that I did...'

Joining her sister Sophie on their podcast, The Katie Price Show , she explained: 'It's my sixth day today. I've been feeling sick, I'm bloated and I'm very tired' (pictured in July 2024)

Katie added: 'The reason I'm going to the doctors is because I keep losing weight and I don't know why. So that's that.'

She detailed her mum Amy's happiness at her decision to use HRT, saying: 'She's so happy, I rang her I'm like, I'm starting the HRT tonight I picked it up. And then Paul saying, ohh you'll be a different person. I was like, does it really change you?'

She previously spoke about her menopause fears, saying: 'In an honest chat, Katie admitted she often gets 'brain fog' as well as the night sweats.

Opening up, she said: 'I'm getting the brain fog going through the pre-menostal [menopause] or whatever it's called, and I wake up and my bed is soaking wet. I hate it.'

And speaking to her sister Sophie on her podcast in February, she explained: 'I'm not sleeping at night and I'm normally a really good sleeper, so something's going on.

'So I'm just going to get my blood test because maybe I'm having an early menopause, I don't know how it all works, but I'm still having my periods.'
The good times showed no sign of ending on Friday as Maura Higgins continued her 35th birthday celebrations in Dubai.

The former Love Island star has jetted to the United Arab Emirates with a group of friends for back-to-back parties and dinner dates in honour of her special day.

But Maura, who celebrated her birthday on November 25, traded the glamorous outfits for a racy bikini as she ended her week by steering a rented yacht across Dubai Marina.

Taking to Instagram, the TV personality showed off her lithe physique in a white two-piece while commandeering the boat for the purposes of her latest post.

Accompanied by influencer friend Sophia Laura, Maura also enjoyed a picturesque jet ski ride around the harbour as dusk fell across Dubai.

The birthday break comes after Maura admitted to using Botox in a recent Instagram post - after previously denying she uses the injectable cosmetic treatment.

The good times showed no sign of ending on Friday as Maura Higgins continued her 35th birthday celebrations in Dubai

Accompanied by influencer friend Sophia Laura, Maura enjoyed a picturesque jet ski ride around Dubai Marina as dusk fell across the United Arab Emirates

She told followers: 'When I first got perioral dermatitis I stop getting facials altogether, now it's just skincare and of course with the help of Botox from the best @drroshoffical.'

The Love island star previously spoke about her cosmetic work soon after appearing on the ITV2 reality dating show in 2021.

She said: 'I got my lips done three months after coming out of Love Island, and lip fillers last five to six months. I haven't had anything done since then; I just let it dissolve.

'But people still assume I've had my lips done, Botox. People are even saying I've had my nose done when I've not actually had any work.'

She added: 'I had braces on for a long time, and since my teeth have moved, they've actually pushed my lips out slightly.

'I feel like I don't need it. If I were to get my lips done now with my straight teeth, it just wouldn't be a good look.'

Maura will add another string to her TV bow in January after signing up for the second series of The Celebrity Traitors USA.

Despite being filmed with a predominantly American cast, the show follows is filmed at Ardross castle in the Scottish Highlands - the same venue used by BBC producers for the British version.

The former Love Island star has jetted to the United Arab Emirates with a group of friends for back-to-back parties and dinner dates in honour of her special day

The birthday break comes after Maura admitted to using Botox in a recent Instagram post - after previously denying she uses the injectable cosmetic treatment

However, Claudia Winkleman plays no part in the US variant, with hosting duties handled by Scottish actor Alan Cumming.

Higgins will be joined on the upcoming season by many other well-known faces including Jason and Travis Kelce's mother, Donna, 74.

Discussing her forthcoming appearance on the show, which will also be streamed on BBC iPlayer, the TV personality described the events of the upcoming season as 'chaos'.

She told The Playlist: 'In this new season, there is chaos again, once more. There is chaos and it's brutal. It's brutal.

'About halfway through, there is a scene in it that is the greatest moment in Traitors' history. Honestly, I just cannot wait for the world to see it. It's utter carnage and utter just mad. It's just brilliant!'
Peter Kay took another jibe at Cat Deeley during his interview on This Morning on Thursday as well as calling her out for an annoying interview habit.

The comedian, 52, accused Cat of telling his whole anecdote after the presenter asked: 'Can we talk about Billy Joel?'

As Peter unenthusiastically replied: 'If you want,' Cat then continued: 'Because weren't you in Ireland and you went to go and see him and was it your dad who is a big Billy Joel fan?'

Accusing her of stealing the anecdote he asked: 'Why don't you just tell it? There's literally nothing left to tell of that story'.

As Ben agreed: 'She always does this,' Cat laughed the incident off as she protested: 'No I didn't give away the big bit'.

However it wasn't the only issue Peter had with the presenter, after he later called her out for her 'active listening'.

Peter Kay took another jibe at Cat Deeley during his This Morning interview on Thursday as comedian proved once again he isn't afraid to speak his mind

The comedian, 52, accused Cat of telling his whole anecdote after the presenter asked: 'Can we talk about Billy Joel ?'

Peter was listing the 12 cancer charities that he will be donating the revenue of his tour to when he flashed Cat a look after she interjected with a 'Yeah' each time he spoke.

Beginning to chuckle, he added: 'I'm not laughing at bowel cancer, it's because she keeps saying, "yeah".'

Looking embarrassed, Cat then began to giggle and turned her face away, as Ben stepped in: 'It's called active listening, my wife does it and it drives me mad.'

Peter then joked: 'Well, if you've got any issues with that and you want to ring up...?' before continuing to list the charities.

Show viewers immediately took to X, formerly Twitter, to react to the moment, celebrating a guest had 'finally called Cat out' for the behaviour.

One penned: 'At last someone has done it! Peter Kay calling out Cat Deeley on all her "yep... yeah...aha...um" while someone is trying to talk!'

It is clear that Peter isn't afraid to say what he thinks, live TV or not, and earlier this year the star hit headlines several times after ordering hecklers out of his shows.

Taking no nonsense at his gig in Manchester last February, Peter kicked out a woman who yelled 'we love you' at the star during the show.

Accusing her of stealing the anecdote he asked: 'Why don't you just tell it? There's literally nothing left to tell of that story'

Earlier this year the star hit headlines several times after ordering hecklers out of his shows (pictured confronting hecklers at his London show in March)

However it wasn't the only issue Peter had with the presenter, after he later called her out for her 'active listening'

The audience member, who later identified herself as Myar Curran, 25, was then chucked out of the arena and compared to Emmerdale actress Lisa Riley.

The comedian shouted back at her: 'Go on, off you go Lisa Riley.'

While in an interview with Good Morning Britain, Myar said she would never watch him again after he left her feeling 'humiliated'.

She branded Kay a 'bully' and accused him of singling her out because of her weight.

Peter later broke his silence on the incident after as he said: 'I didn't realise it was an insult. She did look remarkably like Lisa Riley, I didn't realise that was an insult.'

Furthermore Lisa herself confirmed there was no bad blood between herself and the comedian as she shared on Instagram: 'Please draw a line under this now, I am not offended, never was offended. I love Peter Kay to pieces. Laughter is my favourite medicine.'

Peter was clearly already irate after having two hecklers already removed from the show after one man repeatedly shouted out 'garlic bread'.

One audience member told the Daily Mail at the time that they had walked out early because he was 'nasty and bitter' and his performance was poor'.

One person said: 'It was embarrassing, the guy only shouted garlic bread and the woman just shouted we love you Peter. Waited 20 years to see him and was disappointed.'

Another said: 'We were sat in front of the guy. He shouted garlic bread about four times, as a professional comedian, he [Kay] should have handled the situation better, the woman only said she loved him! They werent heckling or swearing'.

Meanwhile a month later the star once again interrupted his sell out show, this time in London, to call out a group of hecklers.

Peter labelled the rowdy audience members 'k***heads and cheeky monkeys' before they were eventually escorted out.

In the clip exclusively obtained by the Daily Mail, the star referenced the Lisa Riley incident jokes  to the audience: 'Do any of you look like Lisa Riley in this area. No, alright, let's just throw that out,' pointing to the section where the box is.

He added:' You look like Right Said Fred in there. You've all had too much. Now then what are we gonna do with you now?'

Then as the man carried on heckling, Peter could be heard saying: 'Go on, jump! Go on, just jump. See if you bounce,' to laughs from the audience.
China urges U.S. to immediately lift embargo, sanctions against Cuba

Xinhua) 10:20, November 28, 2025

BEIJING, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- China urges the United States to heed the call for just from the international community and immediately lift its embargo and sanctions against Cuba, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Thursday.

Guo's remarks came after Alena Douhan, United Nations special rapporteur on the negative impact of unilateral coercive measures on the enjoyment of human rights, visited Cuba and noted in a preliminary report that the U.S. sanctions have had serious impacts on Cuba's economy and humanitarian situation, and have violated multiple norms of international law.

Guo told a daily news briefing that the report is in full agreement with the recent resolution adopted by the UN General Assembly, with an overwhelming majority urging the United States to end its embargo against Cuba.

Noting that China has always opposed the U.S. blockade and sanctions against Cuba, Guo said that China urges the United States to heed the call for just from the international community, immediately lift its blockade and sanctions against Cuba, and remove Cuba from the list of "state sponsors of terrorism."

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Peter Kay has revealed he turned down Netflix's request for the rights to Phoenix Nights because they wanted to put a trigger warning on it.

The comedian, 52, created the series as a spin-off from an iconic episode of his show That Peter Kay Thing and starred himself and Paddy McGuinness.

It went down a hit with viewers, but in the years since fans have struggled to find anywhere to watch back old episodes.

And they still won't be able to anytime soon as Peter revealed he said no to Netflix when they asked to add it to the streamer because they wanted him to add a trigger warning at the beginning.

'Basically, it's not very politically correct now', he said of the series on Friday's Capital Breakfast with Jordan North, Chris Stark and Sian Welby.

Peter also confessed the streaming giant sent him an air fryer as a 'Christmas gift' - but he believes it was to try and sweeten him up in the hopes he'd say yes.

Peter Kay has revealed he turned down Netflix's request for the rights to Phoenix Nights because they wanted to put a trigger warning on it on Capital Breakfast on Friday

The comedian, 52, created the series (Pictured) as a spin-off from an iconic episode of his show That Peter Kay Thing and starred himself and Paddy McGuinness

Phoenix Nights was a sitcom set in The Phoenix Club, a working men's club in the north of England.

Its controversial and downright problematic characters included fire safety officer Keith Lard who dabbled in bestiality to the Chinese illegal immigrant worker characters - with actor Daniel Kitson leaving the show and blasting it as 'lazy and racist'. Peter was also criticised for playing a man in a wheelchair.

He said: 'I got one (an airfryer) free from Netflix. They got in touch with me last year because they wanted to put Phoenix Nights on Netflix. They rang me up and said, "Can we license some of your shows to put on Netflix?"

'Anyway, they sent me a load of paperwork. Basically, it's not very politically correct now. So you know when they put those "This was made in a time [warnings]..." do you know what I mean?'

Peter added: 'I just said, "I'm not keen on that, I don't really want a warning before it". So, I just said, "No, I'll leave it". Anyway, they sent me an air fryer.

'I think that was trying to sweeten me.'

He continued: 'Anyway this guy, I'll not say his name, from Netflix, Jon Mountague, he said "What would you like for eh... would you like something for Christmas from Netflix?" I said "I'll tell you what I'll have Jon, I'll have one of them knock off Fire Sticks". No, kidding.

'Anyway, the Netflix air fryer arrived. It was a Phillips air fryer, it weren't even a Ninja one. But I was grateful.

'But I think if you're gonna get one Sian get a Ninja one. It had stickers everywhere on it saying Netflix. Netflix stickers all over it which I thought were quite funny.

'It broke. It broke last year.'

'Basically, it's not very politically correct now', he said of the series on Friday's Capital Breakfast with Jordan North, Chris Stark and Sian Welby

Phoenix Nights went down a hit with viewers, but in the years since fans have struggled to find anywhere to watch back old episodes

It comes after Cat Deeley was left stunned on Thursday after Peter called her out for an interview habit in the middle of a live chat on This Morning - leaving fans thrilled.

The presenter, who co-hosts the ITV daytime series alongside Ben Shephard, was joined by the comedian to discuss his tour, Better Late Than Never.

Peter opened up on his decision to donate all the money made from the tour to a series of cancer charities as he sat down with Cat, 49, and Ben, 50.

He went on to list all of the 12 charities the money would go to on the tour, which has been extended for even more dates after first starting in 2022.

Among the charities listed were the Teenage Cancer Trust, Kidney Cancer UK, Blood Cancer UK, Bowel Cancer UK and Prostate Cancer UK.

But as the comic was listing of the names, written down on a piece of paper so he could remember their names, he let out a chuckle in Cat's direction as he noticed she kept responding 'yes' to each charity name.

'My tour has been on a while,' he told the hosts. 'I am doing extra shows and they are all for 12 charities which are, Children with Cancer UK, the Teenage Cancer Trust, Kidney Cancer UK, Blood Cancer UK, Bowel Cancer...

'I'm not laughing at bowel cancer, it's because she keeps saying, "yeah".'

Looking embarrassed, Cat began to giggle and turned her face away, as Ben stepped in: 'It's called active listening, my wife does it and it drives me mad.'

Looking down the lens of the camera, Peter then joked: 'Well, if you've got any issues with that and you want to ring up...?' before continuing to list the charities.

Please credit: Listen to Capital Breakfast with Jordan North, Chris Stark and Sian Welby weekdays from 6am  10am across the UK and on Global Player
Dame Mary Berry has revealed how lucky she feels to have a husband who is still by her side.

The TV personality, 90, has been married to husband Paul John March Hunning, 93, for nearly 60 years and they share two other children Thomas, 57, and Annabel, 55.

Speaking at an event during Yeovil Literary Festival this week, she explained how many of her friends are alone after their partner's passed away.

Paul, a retired antique bookseller, is becoming increasingly 'frail and forgetful' with Mary explaining how she makes sure someone is always with him incase he 'topples over.'

She admitted: 'I am lucky to have him because so many of my girlfriends have not got their husbands. But I have got one. He is forgetful but he is lovely.

'My dear old mum lived until she was 105 and she always used to get really ratty when her friends died. I remember she used to say "So inconvenient!"'

Dame Mary Berry has revealed how lucky she feels to have a husband who is still with her

The TV personality, 90, has been married to husband Paul John March Hunning, 93, for nearly 60 years and they share two other children Thomas, 57, and Annabel, 55 (pictured in 2021)

Mary confessed that she doesn't like to be away from Paul and the couple's home in Henley-on-Thames for long periods of time.

When she is filming her BBC shows or touring the UK to promote her cookbooks, she tries her best to get back to be with him in the evening.

But sometimes if she has to have an overnight stay at a hotel then that is when their daughter Annabel steps in and keeps an eye on him.

Mary added: 'I am very lucky to have a husband who says "You enjoy it. Off you go!" but I am rarely away for the night but when I am my darling daughter will be there to cook his supper and keep an eye that he doesnt topple over because he is 93.'

She also joked how Paul  whom she has been married to for 59 years - is so terrible in the kitchen, he prefers to open a bottle of wine rather than make a cuppa.

The chef told fans as she promoted her new book Mary At 90: 'I do the cooking at home. My husband, as he always says, has other qualities.

'My sister in law came to visit us in Penn once and arrived early at about 5pm and I wasnt there and Paul said "What can I give you? What would you like to drink? Red or white?" and she said "No. Id like a cup of tea". And he said "I dont do tea.'"

The former Bake Off judge also explained how she has managed to stay healthy and reach the age of 90 by following some simple rules.

Speaking at an event during Yeovil Literary Festival this week, she explained how many of her friends are alone after their partner's passed away (pictured in 2016)

She admitted: 'I am lucky to have him because so many of my girlfriends have not got their husbands. But I have got one. He is forgetful but he is lovely'

She said: 'I dont have second helpings. I eat a bit less nowadays  unlike my husband who likes little-and-often snacks like biscuits out of the tin when I am not looking.

'My guilty pleasure is Pringles. If I am having my one glass of wine at the end of the evening.. and the glass is getting bigger.. they are addictive.

'And if I finish work late and I come home starving I have been known to have toast and marmalade and a glass of wine.'

Mary previously revealed she kept her options open when she first met Paul.

The former Bake Off judge said she wanted to 'keep her options open' even though she liked Paul.

She described Paul as 'the London one' while she also had 'several' boyfriends in Bath where she was studying catering in the week.

Speaking with former Bake Off star Sue Perkins on her An Hour or So With podcast, Mary said: 'Paul was a friend of my brother's, and I met him and we sort of did things together.

'But I had another boyfriend in Bath, and he was in London and I used to go home at the weekend.

'Paul was the London one and I had a Bath one, actually there were several in Bath... You keep your options open.'
Made In Chelsea star Tabitha Willett has announced her surprise engagement to Harry Hoare after secretly dating the wealthy heir.

The TV personality, who returned to the long-running E4 show ahead of its 29th series in March, shared the news with Instagram followers on Friday morning.

Revealing her diamond studded engagement ring for the first time alongside various photos of herself alongside her new fiance, Willett, 33, wrote: 'Love you more than you'll ever know.'

A formal announcement was printed by The Times on the newspaper's births, marriages and deaths page on Friday morning.

'The engagement is announced between Henry (Harry), son of Mrs Virginia Hoare and the late Mr Timothy Hoare, and Tabitha, second daughter of Mr Daniel Willett and Miss Muffin Hurst,' it read.

News of Willett's engagement would likely come as a surprise to Made In Chelsea fans, who recently watched her brief romance with co-star Arman Pouladian-Kari play out on screen.

Made In Chelsea star Tabitha Willett has confirmed her engagement to Harry Hoare, just weeks after viewers saw her embark on a brief romance with co-star Arman Pouladian-Kari

The TV personality, who returned to the long-running E4 show ahead of its 29th series in March, shared the news with Instagram followers on Friday morning

Harry's wealthy stockbroker father Timothy passed away aged 69 in 2019.

His funeral, held in London, was attended by Sarah Ferguson, then the Duchess of York, her daughters Princess Eugenie and Beatrice, and Sir Bob Geldof.

The millionaire financier lived at the Grade-II listed Hollycombe House in Liphook, Hampshire, with his wife Virginia, which they filled with treasured antiques.

A prized painting by the late surrealist Salvador Dali, various ornaments and pieces of valuable furniture from the property were sold at auction in 2021.

Timothy, who attended prestigious private school Eton, was very close to Geldof, the prominent singer-songwriter who organised the Band Aid campaign to raise money for Ethiopian famine victims in the 1980s.

The financier had been married three times and had five children.

He founded the successful brokering operation T Hoare & Co in 1993, which helped fund mining projects around the world.

Described by the Daily Mail's Sebastian Shakespeare as a 'once-Falstaffian, popular figure', he famously shot a leopard dead in Tanzania in 2006.

Willett shared various photos of herself alongside new fiance Harry, son of the late multimillionaire stockbroker Timothy Hoare

News of the engagement had been formerly announced by The Times in the newspaper's births, marriages and deaths page on Friday morning

Harry's wealthy stockbroker father Timothy (pictured) passed away aged 69 in 2019. His funeral, held in London, was attended by Sarah Ferguson, then the Duchess of York

The millionaire financier lived at the Grade-II listed Hollycombe House (pictured) in Liphook, Hampshire, with his wife Virginia, which they filled with treasured antiques

The TV personality announced her separation from former fiance Fraser Carruthers in 2020 after the coronavirus pandemic forced the couple to postpone their wedding that July

Willett, who raises six-year old daughter Ottilie with former partner Fraser Carruthers, originally joined the Made In Chelsea cast in 2018, during their annual trip to Croatia.

A tumultuous year on the show saw her hit it off with Miles Nazaire before secretly dating Sam Prince.

She left in 2019, but has since returned for its 29th and 30th series', during which she embarked on a short-lived romance with Arman Pouladian-Kari.

Viewers watched as she ended her brief relationship with the DJ after discovering he was still close with his ex, Yasmine Zweegers - only to reunite for a secret tryst.

The TV personality announced her separation from club mogul Fraser Carruthers in 2020 after the coronavirus pandemic forced the couple to postpone their wedding that July.

She told Instagram followers at the time: 'After months of consideration and many long and thoughtful conversations, Fraser and I have decided to separate. As you can imagine, this is an incredibly hard time for us as a family.

'This year has provided so many uncertainties and forced us to postpone and eventually cancel our wedding as well as being new and full time parents and government closures of businesses.

'Ottilie is our world and remains our number one priority. We also share so much love and respect for one another and our beautiful daughter and we are eager for her to grow up watching us mature into a modern family, as close friends.

'Fraser is the most incredible father and it fills me with great sadness that we have been unable to make our relationship work.'

Willett shares daughter Ottilie with Fraser (pictured together in an undated Instagram photo)

She added: 'We still love each other very much and know that our future is better and more stable this way.

'As we find our feet and navigate our new relationship, we ask for respect and kindness.

'We may be a little quieter than usual as we settle into our new normal and we thank you in advance for your love and support.

'This is all Fraser and myself will be commenting on this matter at this delicate time.

'The community that we have formed together on this platform means the world to me and I am looking forward to sharing our ongoing journey as honestly and openly as I am able to, with you. With love, Tabitha, Fraser and Ottilie.'
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

Celebrities including Kate Beckinsale and Sofia Richie have been fighting skin issues and signs of ageing with a clever at home device.

The celebrity-approved skin saviour has been used by actress Kate, 52, to 'fight gravity' while Sofia, 27, has credited it for 'transforming her face.'

As with most Hollywood-approved products, facial treatments can be expensive but the LYMA Laser currently has 25% off and is now priced at 1,499.

Other A-listers who have hailed the device 'amazing' and even ditched injectable skin treatments, include Kate Hudson, Sienna Miller and Carey Mulligan.

In an update shared to her Instagram, Kate Beckinsale could be seen using a LYMA laser on her skin in a bid to avoid becoming 'saggy and baggy.'

She said: 'Fight gravity. Hold it on areas that you dont want to be saggy and baggy, like under your chin, so you dont get turkey neck.'

Celebrities including Kate Beckinsale and Sofia Richie have been fighting skin issues and signs of ageing with a clever at home device

The celebrity-approved skin saviour has been used by actress Kate, 52, to 'fight gravity' while Sofia, 27, has credited it for 'transforming her face'

Kate continued: 'You can do your decolletage area and those flabby, crepey bits on your arms. It has been a life saver. I would really highly recommend.

'It feels kind of nice too and b) you dont need a lot of time out of your day and c) youre not injecting weird shit into your body.'

Sofia explained how she suffered with pigmentation after her pregnancy and has benefited from its brightening benefits.

She said: 'I cannot say enough good things about the Lyma Laser. I do it every night before bed while I'm watching a movie.

'This has changed my skin. Within a week, this transformed my skin. It's such a great product.'

Meanwhile, Carey admitted to gifting herself a laser following her Oscars nomination last year.

The actress said: 'Its three lasers in one and its the most amazing thing. I used it the entire way on the plane. It doesn't damage the cells, it just renews them.

'I've got a scar just above my brow from when I walked into a door in the middle of the night to go feed my baby, and this scar is going away. This is going to be going everywhere with me, all over me.'

In an update shared to her Instagram, Kate Beckinsale could be seen using a LYMA laser on her skin in a bid to avoid becoming 'saggy and baggy'

Meanwhile, Carey Mulligan admitted to gifting herself a laser following her Oscars nomination last year to help fix a scar on her eyebrow

Sofia explained how she suffered with pigmentation after her pregnancy and has benefited from its brightening benefits

Kate Hudson said: 'This is one of the best things I've ever used on my face'

LeAnne Rimes has also giving the laser a glowing review as she revealed: 'After 5-weeks of consistent use, I can tell a difference in the texture of my skin. Its tighter, brighter, smoother'

With celebrities reaping the benefits of the laser, how does it work?

The laser is engineered to speed up the skin rejuvenation process by increasing energy reserves that detoxify and hydrate the skin.

Supercharged skin cells able to regenerate at a much faster rate mean firmer, brighter, younger looking skin.

Results show plumping, lifting, firming, sculpting, smoothing and brightening of the skin, all without any damage and from the privacy of your own home.
When a 17-year-old Tupac Shakur walked into Leila Steinberg's living room, she sat up and took notice.

For one thing, the aspiring rapper was supremely talented, elevating her weekly poetry circles with his exquisite verses and poignant phrasings.

Then there were the pirouettes and plies, his outlandish persona and his look: pink eye shadow, black nail varnish and, once, a full cheerleader outfit.

'I'd never met a person like Tupac,' said Steinberg, a community activist and 'elder sister' to the Bay Area high school students.

'He was so unique and outside the box. I initially assumed he was gay, because he was extremely feminine. Everything from his mannerisms to doing ballet in my living room.'

In fact, she said, 'I do believe, nowadays, he would have defined himself as fluid.'

Almost 30 years after his murder, Tupac still manages to surprise.

Now, a new book, 'Only God Can Judge Me,' has revealed a remarkable hidden side to the gangsta rap pioneer and his complicated relationship with his own sexuality.

According to friends if Tupac Shakur was alive today he would define himself as 'fluid'

Steinberg is one of the many close friends who spoke to the author, Jeff Pearlman, to reveal that the man with 'Thug Life' tattooed across his stomach was actually flamboyant, sensitive, bookish and even 'effeminate' before he became a famous rap superstar.

Born in New York City to a Black Panther mother who rapidly descended into crack addiction, Tupac had a transient childhood, moving in 1984 to Baltimore, where his mother, Afeni Shakur, had relatives.

Encouraged by an artsy, white, liberal couple who lived next door, in 1986 theatrical and curious Tupac auditioned for and was accepted by the prestigious Baltimore School for the Arts.

Tuition was free for city residents; those outside Baltimore paid $15,000 a year for the opportunity to study alongside future stars of Broadway and Hollywood.

Jada Pinkett-Smith, future wife of Will Smith, was in Tupac's class, and the pair were close.

Another classmate was Seth Bloom, who described himself in the book as 'a gay theatre kid'.

He and Tupac hit it off so much so that, Bloom told Pearlman, there was a frisson between them, beyond friendship. He recounted how at a party they were drinking tequila shots and were dared to kiss each other.

'He kissed me,' said Bloom. 'We kind of vamped it up, our lips touched. I know I wasn't the only boy Tupac kissed.

'When we were alone, I always felt a thing. You know that sexual tension where you hold a glare a second or two too long, or you touch someone longer than normal? That was Tupac.

'My belief is he was somewhere between heterosexual and bisexual.'

Tupac thrived at the school - wildly popular and successful with the girls but also loved longingly by the boys for his mischievous, outlandish ways.

'He kissed me,' said Bloom. 'We kind of vamped it up, our lips touched. I know I wasn't the only boy Tupac kissed.'

Tupac, pictured above in the 1988 Baltimore School of Arts yearbook. The rapper thrived at the school where he was popular and successful with girls and loved longingly by boys.

Yet within two years of joining BSA, he was forced to leave: his mother Afeni kicked the then-17-year-old Tupac out of the house and shipped him across the country to live with family friends in Marin City, in the Bay Area of California.

Tupac enrolled at Tamalpais High, where he met Steinberg and her artistic entourage.

'He was so different than most of the kids from Marin City,' said Chava Bramwell, a white classmate who spoke to Pearlman. 'Honestly, it was strange for us to see a black kid like him.

'He was in touch with his feelings. He was feminine and soft and sweet and gentle. Really, he was effeminate. Very effeminate.'

Liza Monjauze, another classmate, told how she and Tupac went to the mall together to get both ears pierced. Tupac spray-painted his own clothes, and bleached blonde a strip of his hair, which Monjauze said was 'really confusing.'

And La Donna Bonner, also in Tupac's class, told Pearlman how for the 1988 'Spirit Week' - an annual celebration of the school's culture - Tupac dressed in a full cheerleader outfit, complete with the skirt and pompoms, and paraded through the cafeteria.

'I asked around - "Excuse me, who is this crazy boy? And what has he been smoking?"'

On graduating, Tupac's nomadic existence continued. He bought a house in Atlanta but was drawn back to his native city of New York - breaking hearts wherever he went. His womanizing was legendary - and devastating.

In November 1993, 19-year-old Ayanna Jackson, whom he had met in a nightclub, accused him of raping her at a Manhattan hotel with two other men.

Tupac denied the charges but was convicted of sexual abuse and sent to Rikers Island for a month. An eight-month stint at Clinton Correctional Facility in upstate New York followed. Just 20 miles from the Canadian border, it was nicknamed Siberia for its harsh conditions: the rapper was there from Valentine's Day of 1995 until October that same year.

Wendy Williams, then a radio shock-jock, claimed that Tupac was raped in prison by fellow inmates, something he denied in a 1995 interview with the Los Angeles Times.

He said it was hard 'watching the media report all kinds of lies about me, like that I got raped in jail. That never happened.'

Tupac's womanizing was legendary and devastating. In November 1993, 19-year-old Ayanna Jackson, whom he had met in a nightclub, accused him of raping her at a Manhattan hotel with two other men.

Tupac was convicted of sexual abuse and sent to Rikers Island for a month. An eight-month stint at Clinton Correctional Facility in upstate New York followed.

What is undeniable is that Tupac made a series of surprising friends while behind bars.

Not least, his cell mate, described by Pearlman as 'a flamboyant gay man,' who cooked up tomato soup in their cell and shared it with the rapper.

Another man with whom Tupac formed a close bond was a corrections officer, who wrote a 2021 book about his experiences inside prisons under the pseudonym Michael Christopher.

Christopher took an interest in Tupac's writings and became something of a therapist to the rapper as he talked through his traumatic, poverty-stricken childhood and told of his absent father and dysfunctional mother.

When Tupac was freed, he signed a photo for Christopher, writing: 'To a good man. I wish you all the success in the world.'

He also became good friends with Joey Fama, an Italian American convicted for the murder of a young black man in Brooklyn, who, Pearlman writes, became 'briefly the face of bigotry in the Big Apple'.

And college student Shannon Siegel, who like Fama was white, and convicted of almost beating to death a black man he saw talking to a girl he was dating.

They were, writes Pearlman, 'men he certainly would not have hung with on the outside.'

But then, for Tupac, his public persona and private reality were two very different things.

Shot dead in Las Vegas following a fight with a rival LA-based gang, he died on September 13, 1996, at the age of 25.

Three of the four people in the car that pulled up alongside Tupac's vehicle that night, spraying it with bullets, are dead.

The sole survivor, former gang leader, Duane 'Keffe D' Davis, will go on trial in February.
Traditionally it's a time of goodwill, kindness and generosity - just ask Jackie Adams, who has ensured her absent grandson still gets a stocking this Christmas, despite his pivotal role in a rapidly deepening family feud.

With David and Victoria Beckham thought to be spending the festive season with an assortment of extended family members, among them Victoria's mother Jackie, eldest son Brooklyn will be ensconced at the Los Angeles home he shares with his actress wife Nicola Peltz.

The influencer, who appears to spend much of his time filming Instagram content for his 16 million followers, has been notably absent from every key family event over the course of the year - among them his father's milestone 50th birthday celebration and long awaited recent investiture.

But while his self-imposed estrangement is expected to continue over Christmas, Brooklyn's grandmother Jackie is begging for him to come home for the festive period by publicly sharing a picture of his personalised stocking hanging on the fireplace.

Taking to Instagram on Friday, Victoria shared a video of her mother's festive display, tastefully ranged across a stone chimney breast in her front room.

Pinned above the hearth, identical red stockings for Brooklyn, Romeo, Cruz and Harper are evident, alongside their numerous cousins - among them Liberty, Tallulah, Finlay and Quincy, the four children Victoria's younger sister Louise shares with her ex-husband, Darren Flood.

Brooklyn Beckham's gran has begged him to come home for Christmas with a pointed Instagram snap of his personalised stocking hanging on her fireplace on Friday

Brooklyn (pictured with Jackie) has been notably absent from every key family event over the course of the year - among them his father's milestone 50th birthday celebration

Captioning the video, the former Spice Girl wrote: 'So many grandchildren!'

Friends of the Beckham family say that Jackie  and Davids mum Sandra  are very sad at the rift that means they no longer see, especially because they were always so close.

Jackie spent a lot of time with Brooklyn when he was a baby and young toddler because David and Victoria were still working away a lot. Sources say that Brooklyn was always so happy to see the two women at the many Beckham family get togethers.

David and Victoria are making peace with not having Brooklyn around, they are sad but they are having to accept it, says the source familiar with the fall out.

But its the grandmothers. They adore Brooklyn, they were so, so close to him. He loved them so much, he adored them in fact, but now they dont see him.

Theyre not getting any younger and the cold truth of it all is that nobody knows when they will see Brooklyn next. Its Jackie and Sandra who everyone feels so sorry for amongst the whole family schism.

Sources say that both Jackie and Sandra were very surprised to see that Brooklyn and wife Nicola had renewed their wedding vows earlier this year without telling them.

The couple were also absent as Victoria celebrated the launch of her Netflix docuseries with family members in October.

While his estrangement is expected to continue over Christmas, Brooklyn's grandmother is hopeful she will see Brooklyn

Romeo and Cruz's stocking is also visible in Victoria Beckham's recent Instagram post

Elsewhere Harper Beckham's stocking sits alongside one for her young cousin, Quincy

The fashion designer was surrounded by her nearest and dearest at the London premiere while Brooklyn and his wife were thousands of miles away in Beverly Hills.

Despite the rift, his grandmother has been keen to maintain a connection with Brooklyn, and even commented on one of his recent cooking tutorials.

Brooklyn, whose culinary skills have often divided followers, won universal praise in October after preparing a delicious looking beef wellington.

But it was a telling comment from Jackie which stood out, with the proud grandmother posting: 'That looks amazing Brooklyn. Lots of love.'

In a recent interview, Victoria spoke about the 'changing dynamics' in her family in the midst of her feud with her son.

The fashion designer appeared on the Call Her Daddy podcast with Alex Cooper and spoke about her 'close family', but did not reference Brooklyn directly.

She said: 'I mean, we're such a close family and, you know, communication is key and we always let them know that anything that they want to talk about, you know, this is a safe forum. You know, that's really important.'

Brooklyn, whose culinary skills have often divided followers, won universal praise in October after preparing a delicious looking beef wellington

But it was a telling comment from Jackie which stood out, with the proud grandmother posting: 'That looks amazing Brooklyn. Lots of love'

Brooklyn missed his father's long awaited recent investiture at Windsor Castle
Abbey Clancy looked effortlessly chic in a black dress as she joined her look-a-like daughter, Sophia, and her sister, Elle, at the SPACE NK Christmas party on Friday.

The model, 39, stunned in the figure-hugging dress, which she paired with a double-breasted black jacket.

She added inches to her statuesque frame as she slipped into a pair of towering black stilettos.

To complete her sophisticated look, Abbey toted around her belongings in a chic black leather handbag.

Trailing close behind was her look-a-like daughter, Sophia, 14, who stepped out in a purple dress and black boots.

Meanwhile, Elle looked incredible in thigh-high brown leather boots and a brown blazer dress.

Abbey Clancy looked effortlessly chic in a black dressas she joined her look-a-like daughter, Sophia, and her sister, Elle, at the SPACE NK Christmas party on Friday

The model, 39, stunned in the figure-hugging dress, which she paired with a double-breasted black jacket

Elle shared an insight into the party as she posted a sweet clip of her and Sophia being playful during the dinner.

It comes after Abbey recently joked she wanted to 'die' after a very embarrassing encounter, which took place when she was nine months pregnant.

The Britain's Next Top Model star shares daughters Sophia and Liberty, and sons Johnny and Jack, with her husband, Peter Crouch, 44.

Speaking on her podcast, The Therapy Crouch, the model explained she was heavily pregnant when she had an awkward interaction with another mother in a chemist.

She said: 'I had a terrible incident in a chemist once when I was nine months pregnant and had a hold of a six-month-old baby.

'There was a lady at the till with a baby and what I thought was a pregnant tummy. I said to her, "God, you're as nutty as me".

'The baby was kicking off and I went, "Oh God, we've got it all to come, haven't we?"

She added inches to her statuesque frame as she slipped into a pair of towering black stilettos

To complete her sophisticated look, Abbey toted around her belongings in a chic black leather handbag

Trailing close behind was her look-a-like daughter, Sophia, 14, who stepped out in a purple dress and black boots

Meanwhile, Elle looked incredible in thigh-high brown leather boots and a brown blazer dress

Elle shared an insight into the party as she posted a sweet clip of her and Sophia being playful during the dinner

'She said "I'm not pregnant, this is my baby weight from this baby", and I just wanted to die. I was like, "I am so sorry, I am so sorry".

'She went, "Don't worry about it", and thought it was funny, but I was heartbroken. It's not good, never, ever do that.'

Meanwhile, Peter said that he never congratulates someone unless they explicitly mention they're pregnant.

He said: 'I genuinely don't ever say congratulations, even if I know someone is blatantly eight months pregnant.

'I still don't say it. I would never even... I just wouldn't mention it, and if they say something like, "I've only got a month to go", then you go, "Congratulations by the way". I would never say congratulations, ever, because you never know.'

Abbey and Peter have been an item since 2006 and eventually tied the knot in 2011.

The lovebirds recently proved they're still madly in love by sharing a passionate kiss during a recent Oasis concert.

The couple, who tied the knot in 2011, didn't seem to care who was around to see as they locked lips during the gig in Dublin in August.

Abbey and ex-Liverpool striker Peter were joined by their teenage daughter, Sophia, as they cosied up to each other in snaps shared to Abbey's Instagram.

It comes after Abbey recently joked she wanted to 'die' after a very embarrassing encounter, which took place when she was nine months pregnant

The band are currently on their world reunion tour, Oasis Live '25, and fans across the globe have turned out in their masses to watch them perform.

The Crouches decided to watch the band perform in Ireland, with Abbey reminiscing on how good a time it was.

Abbey captioned her dump: '@oasis we had a blast love you guys.'

Another video showed Peter singing as behind the camera, Abbey could be heard shouting to her husband: 'You're fit, you're fit' before he pulled his bucket hat over his eyes pretending to be shy.
It's been a turbulent few days for Freddy Brazier after he split from his pregnant girlfriend following weeks of arguments.

But now it appears that the 21-year-old model and son of the late Jade Goody has turned to his grandmother Jackiey Budden as he adapts to life as a single man once again.

On Thursday morning, Nan and grandson enjoyed a dog walk near Jackieys home in Bermondsey, south-east London, just two days after the news of Freddys split from Holly Swinburn was revealed by the Daily Mail.

Dressed in brown trousers and wearing a black woolly hat to shield him from the cold, Freddy took his bully dog Pablo for a stroll with Jackiey  Jades mother.

But while the pair seemed to be in high spirits, theres one person who certainly wont be after seeing these photographs: Freddys father Jeff.

Jeff has spent more than a year desperately trying to keep his youngest son away from Jackiey, who he believes is a bad influence on Freddy. He even went so far as to hire lawyers in an unsuccessful bid to prevent Freddy seeing Jackiey, 68  the closest person he has to a mother following Jades tragic death back in 2009.

And Ive got more bad news for Jeff, 46, who also split from his wife, the PR executive Kate Dwyer, this week  because I can reveal that Freddy has moved back in with Jackiey after a spell living in his fathers home in Harlow, Essex  and is now staying in the spare room at her two-bedroom council flat in Bermondsey.

A source close to the family said: Freddy loves his nan, they fight like cat and dog, but Jackiey is the closest thing he has to a mum.

Freddy, who has moved into his grandmother's house in Bermondsey, south-east London, was spotted going for a walk yesterday. He also seems to have won the battle with his ex over who would keep their dog, Pablo

Jackiey Budden on a dog walk while smoking

Jackiey is the mother of Jade Goody and is Freddy's grandmother

Freddy revealed that his grandmother was the person who introduced him to cannabis

Freddy's ex Holly wanted to keep dog Pablo at her home after the pair split

Jackiey pictured leaving a pet shop in Bermondsey

Freddy has previously spoken about being in rehab and being sectioned

After Freddy said his grandmother introduced him to cannabis, she hit back, saying: 'It just isnt true at all  I cant believe it

But Jeff absolutely hates that Freddy and Jackiey are close. He doesnt like Freddy being around her. Jeff tells people that his son is troubled and that Jackiey makes it worse. Its a war that will never end.

While Freddy was with [his ex-girlfriend] Holly, he was living between Jackieys house and Jeffs. But now hes on his own he has gone back to his nans. He likes it there, he can chill out, smoke and talk about his mum. He sleeps in her old bedroom, its comforting for him.

While Freddy has been busy making amends with his grandmother, Jeff jetted off to Iceland for a work trip for ITV news shows Good Morning Britain and Lorraine.

During that time it emerged that he had split from Kate and that his son had also dumped his girlfriend, Holly, who is four months pregnant with his first child.

Our exclusive pictures also reveal that Freddy has won the battle with his ex over who would keep their dog, Pablo. He told friends that Holly wanted to keep him at her home.

Those close to the young couple say it is now unlikely they will ever get back together after their split. Its a shame, they actually were a lovely couple and got on very well at times, said one source.

One source described Freddy and Holly's break-up as 'messy'

Holly Swinburn and Freddy Brazier at the Pride of Britain Awards in October

Jackiey has a two-bedroom council flat in Bermondsey

Jeff Brazier, Freddy's father, made an unsuccessful bid to prevent Freddy seeing Jackiey

Freddy is reportedly staying in Jackiey's spare room, which used to be Jade's room

Jackiey has insisted she is not responsible for Freddy's cannabis use

Jeff Brazier announced his split from wife Kate Dwyer this week

Jade Goody's mother and Freddy's grandmother, Jackiey Budden, who Freddy has reportedly moved in with

Indeed, their short, on-off romance turned into a more serious one almost overnight when Holly revealed she was expecting a baby earlier this summer with a shock photograph of a positive pregnancy test  blindsiding Freddy. Initially, Freddy was concerned the baby wasnt his, but it is reported a paternity test proved he was the father. One source said: It all feels so messy, sadly it feels like that is always going to be the way.

Things havent always been smooth sailing between Freddy and his grandmother either. Earlier this year, they had a bust-up after he publicly claimed that she introduced him to cannabis.

He said on social media: My nan is definitely the person who introduced me to reefer [a cannabis cigarette] and got me hooked. Its one of those things, I was 12.

Ive been smoking since I was 12, Ive been to rehab, Ive been sectioned, Ive had manic episodes. Theres been a real journey and its been a tough one.

His comments prompted Jackiey to hit back, insisting she is not responsible for his cannabis use.

She said: Ive read all these things hes said about me and I just cant believe hed say them. It just isnt true at all  I cant believe it.

So, only time will tell whether Freddy and Jackieys latest truce holds.
Kelly Dodd threatened to release embarrassing recordings she made of her 19-year-old daughter Jolie in an explosive voice note that has leaked online.

The Real Housewives of Orange County alum shares Jolie with her ex-husband Michael Dodd, whom she split from in 2017 after 11 years of marriage.

Their divorce triggered a rancorous custody drama, with Kelly at one point accusing Michael of being a 'deadbeat,' but by 2021 they appeared to have arrived at an amicable co-parenting relationship that she characterized as a 'miracle.'

However they were feuding publicly again by 2022, and now Kelly is claiming that Jolie - who is now at university in Paris - has 'blocked me on everything.'

As a result, Kelly sent a voice note to one of her daughter's friends asking that it be passed along to Jolie, only for the friend to turn around and post a social media video of herself vaping and playing Kelly's message for the public to hear.

Kelly can be heard furiously lambasting Jolie for 'taking' her father's 'side,' and warning that she would publicize recordings she made of her daughter 'screaming' at Michael for not buying her a car or taking her on holiday.

The Daily Mail has contacted Kelly for comment.

Kelly Dodd threatened to release embarrassing recordings she made of her 19-year-old daughter Jolie in an explosive voice note that has leaked online

The voice note went viral on Thanksgiving, at which point Jolie was in Paris, where she posted Insta Stories of a Kim Petras gig she attended that night.

'Jolie blocked me from everything. So I want you to forward this message to her, okay? Forward this message to her: You just opened up Pandora's Box, Jolie,' Kelly said in the voice note, which was sent at a date that remains unknown.

'I have recordings of you screaming at your dad because he hasn't taken you on vacation, screaming that he didn't buy you a car,' she claimed.

'Do you remember those recordings that I saved? I have those and I am gonna publicly put them out there. Do you understand?'

Kelly then bewailed the fact Jolie would 'do this to me' - possibly referring to blocking her - 'after I bought you a car, paid for your college, paid for your health insurance, took you to the doctor's, got you all your clothes, housed you, did all that.'

She raged: 'Meanwhile your dad was banging some f***ing loser and put those three kids first before you. I have all of those, okay?'

It was unclear if she was referring to Laura White, the woman Michael dated for years after his split from Kelly. In 2021, Kelly called her an 'amazing step Mom' to Jolie.

In her new voice message for Jolie, Kelly raged that 'what you just did right now, you're gonna look like a fool, you dumb little girl. You're stupid for even thinking that you're gonna win.'

The Real Housewives of Orange County alum shares Jolie with her ex-husband Michael Dodd, whom she split from in 2017 after 11 years of marriage; Kelly and Michael pictured in 2016

Now Kelly is claiming that Jolie - who is enrolled at a university in Paris - has 'blocked me on everything,' so she sent a voice note to her daughter's friend to be passed along

Kelly is pictured in a recent TikTok defending her former Real Housewives of Orange County co-star Meghan King over her alleged custody issues

She then indicated she had retained criminal defense lawyer Cameron Talley, who secured the domestic violence acquittal of MMA fighter Jason 'Mayhem' Miller, now known as Mayhem the Newsman on The Adam Carolla Show.

In the new voice message meant for Jolie, Kelly sneered that Talley was 'laughing at you. You're a joke and so is your dad and for you to even take his side after what he has done to you since seventh grade is absolutely crazy.'

As the voice note went viral, Kelly responded by re-posting Insta Stories from the fan account @bravowoodx that defended her and denounced Jolie as a 'b****.'

'This whole Kelly Dodd voicemail thing is such a f***ing joke. Oh, please, give me a f***ing break,' the fan account snorted in the post Kelly reshared.

'You clearly don't have a teenage daughter if you feel bad for Jolie here. Let alone a spoiled and entitled f***ing brat that uses whatever parent benefits her in the moment. She sure isn't complaining about that fully luxuriously, furnished apartment in Paris and tuition by Mommy,' the account continued.

'So who's the one who ended up putting things out in the public??? Mom or daughter?? Yeah. That's what I thought. She's no longer a child.'

The fan said Jolie 'needs a cold hard reality check. Uses her mom for fifteen years, and then blocks her to go use her dad who abandoned her now. Little b****.'

However the same account uploaded another post, this time in a more conciliatory vein, which Kelly also reshared to her own Insta Stories.

As the voice ntoe went viral, Kelly responded by re-posting Insta Stories from the fan account @bravowoodx that defended her and denounced Jolie as a 'b****.'

However the same account uploaded another post, this time in a more conciliatory vein, which Kelly also reshared to her own Insta Stories

'All family fights and make up, no one is spared. I have seen Kelly and her love for her daughter is so very real, all moms and daughters fight,' read that message.

'No one should judge a parents love or anger it's between her and her daughter. Wishing them peace and working it out.'

The mother and daughter appeared to share a friendly equation as recently as August 2024, when Kelly proudly posted an Instagram video of herself helping Jolie move into her college dormitory in Paris after she graduated high school earlier that year.

However by this August, Kelly's brother Eric Meza posted a shirtless video of himself fresh out of the shower, sensationally claiming Jolie had 'disowned' her mother and 'has nothing to do with her. Jolies done with her. Shes a terrible mom.'

Kelly, who has been married to Fox News personality Rick Leventhal since 2020, fired back dismissing Meza as a 'psycho' who was 'full of s***.'
Chili's employees are expressing fury over the restaurant's wicked new menu item.

As part of a November special, the fast-casual eatery launched two alcoholic beverages influenced by the newly-released Wicked: For Good movie.

One is a green Elphaba-inspired margarita with hints of apple called The Witches Brew Marg.

The other is a bright-pink Glinda-themed margarita with dragon fruit named The Good Witch Marg.

Each $6 drink is topped with a playful garnish - a black witch's hat or a pink magic wand.

While the new drinks may seem fun and festive, they have proven to be a nightmare for employees of the Tex-Mex eatery.

An account claiming to be a Chili's worker posted on a Reddit forum dedicated to the chain that the Wicked drinks were making their life 'a living hell.'

The post asked: 'is anyone else's Chili's absolute chaos because of the Wicked drinks?'

As part of a November special, the fast-casual eatery launched two alcoholic beverages influenced by the newly-released Wicked: For Good movie

One is a green Elphaba-inspired margarita with hints of apple called The Witches Brew Marg and the other is a bright-pink Glinda-themed margarita with dragon fruit named The Good Witch Marg

'I feel like a flying monkey behind the bar,' the user continued.

'My bar manager added a THIRD bartender for Friday and Saturday because the morning bartender isn't making enough batches and our numbers are plummeting because we have to stop what were doing to make them. Is that fair at all?'

Those claiming to be Chili's employees at different locations jumped in, saying that the original poster was fortunate to be allowed to batch make the cocktails.

'These witches got my fingers looking like I got a hold of the dark hold with how the blue curacao is staining them dark blue,' a worker who had to craft each drink individually complained.

Another chimed in: 'It's annoying too cus a lot of non drinkers and kids are asking for virgin versions cus they want the swizzle sticks.'

A curious Reddit user asked workers on the r/Chilis thread: 'I'm curious how many drinks are you guys making a day?' to which a different account responded: 'Saturday nights probably 500 at least.'

One user wrote: 'We made over 700 wicked margaritas tonight. Not even counting all the "mocktail" versions (aka lemonade) I had to do for my tables. I cannot wait for November to be over.'

Someone else added: 'It's MISERABLE, we've had to put in an emergency liquor order that still hasn't shown up, so our manager have gone to the liquor store TWICE for lunazul & triple sec; we've run out of dragon fruit, the lemon and lime for sour, and the wand swizzles.'

While the new drinks may seem fun and festive, they have proven to be a nightmare for employees of the Tex-Mex eatery

Each $6 drink is topped with a playful garnish - a black witch's hat or a pink magic wand

They added: 'Last Friday and Saturday we ran out of not only marg glasses, but also the 16 oz pints we were forced to them in multiple times throughout the night; mind you the movie hasn't even come out yet, praying for my comrades this weekend.'

In May, it was revealed that Chili's held the title of America's margarita king after pulling off 'the best comeback of all time.'

Margaritas are the top-selling cocktail in the US, and Chili's sells more than any other restaurant brand nationwide.

Last year alone, it sold more than 25 million margaritas.
America's hottest corporate trend is layoffs.

FedEx, America's second-largest shipping and logistics company, is shutting down a logistics operation in Coppell, Texas, and laying off nearly 900 workers, according to a WARN notice filed with the Texas Workforce Commission.

It's the latest example of a legacy company to announce a mass layoff in the past month.

Several companies are delivering pink slips while embracing automation as AI reshapes the job market.

The FedEx facility, located in an industrial pocket north of Dallas, employs 856 people.

The company said cuts will come in waves, with roughly 60 workers losing their jobs in January, with the remaining layoffs unfolding over the next several months.

The entire site will likely shutter by the end of April.

FedEx says the closure is due to a major customer transitioning its business to a different location operated by a new logistics provider.

FedEx said it is laying off 856 Texas-based staffers and shutting down a logistics center after a corporate partner is moving its operations

FedEx's CEO, Raj Subramaniam, took over the company's top role in June 2022

But FedEx hasn't revealed which company is making the move.

The notice also states that the affected employees are not unionized and will continue receiving wages and benefits through their final day.

'Team members at this facility were notified in advance, and some will be eligible for other roles within the company, including at other FedEx facilities in the area,' the company told the Daily Mail.

'We are committed to supporting affected employees through job placement assistance, relocation aid, or severance, as applicable.'

The layoffs mark a sharp turn from the hiring push FedEx mounted just over three years ago, when it hosted a job fair to staff the same site.

They also land during a broader slowdown across Texas, which has spent years as one of the nation's hottest corporate growth hubs.

But many of the companies that have moved their operations to Texas are billion-dollar tech and logistics companies that are building out their AI capacity.

And many of those firms have contributed to a recent record-breaking trend of layoffs.

FedEx told the Daily Mail that impacted employees can apply for other jobs in the company

Layoff-tracking firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas estimated that employers cut 153,074 jobs in October, a 175 percent increase from last year and a 183 percent jump from September.

It marks the sharpest monthly rise since 2003.

That trend has extended across some of America's largest firms  including Amazon, Target, Walmart, Apple, General Motors, and ConocoPhillips  while the companies report billions in earnings.

'Some may ask why we're reducing roles when the company is performing well,' Beth Galetti, an HR lead at Amazon, wrote in a public note in October, while the company slashed 14,000 positions.

'What we need to remember is that the world is changing quickly. This generation of AI is the most transformative technology we've seen since the internet, and it's enabling companies to innovate much faster than ever before.'

HP announced 6,000 staffers would be axed on Tuesday, UPS has cut 34,000 this year, Target slashed 1,800 corporate workers from its headcount in October, and Starbucks laid off 900 in late September.
AMB Financial Corp. (OTCMKTS:AMFC  Get Free Report) shot up 0.7% during mid-day trading on Tuesday . The stock traded as high as $29.50 and last traded at $29.50. 200 shares traded hands during trading, a decline of 86% from the average session volume of 1,460 shares. The stock had previously closed at $29.30.

AMB Financial Stock Performance

The firms 50 day moving average is $28.53 and its 200-day moving average is $24.93.

AMB Financial Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

AMB Financial Corp. operates as the bank holding company for American Community Bank of Indiana that provides financial services to customers in Indiana. The company provides savings, checking, health savings, individual retirement, and money market deposit accounts, as well as certificates of deposit.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for AMB Financial Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for AMB Financial and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
American Hotel Income Properties REIT LP (TSE:HOT.UN  Get Free Report) traded up 20% on Tuesday . The stock traded as high as C$0.37 and last traded at C$0.36. 335,536 shares were traded during mid-day trading, an increase of 525% from the average session volume of 53,673 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$0.30.

American Hotel Income Properties REIT Trading Down 4.3%

The stock has a market capitalization of C$25.09 million, a P/E ratio of -0.29 and a beta of -0.82. The company has a current ratio of 0.44, a quick ratio of 0.36 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 276.63. The business has a 50-day moving average price of C$0.36 and a two-hundred day moving average price of C$0.42.

Get American Hotel Income Properties REIT alerts:

American Hotel Income Properties REIT (TSE:HOT.UN  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Friday, November 7th. The company reported C($0.34) EPS for the quarter. The company had revenue of C$66.24 million during the quarter. American Hotel Income Properties REIT had a negative net margin of 34.67% and a negative return on equity of 34.11%. On average, analysts expect that American Hotel Income Properties REIT LP will post 0.0406452 EPS for the current fiscal year.

American Hotel Income Properties REIT Company Profile

American Hotel Income Properties REIT LP is a trust that invests in hotel real estate properties. The companys primary business is owning Premium Branded hotels, which have franchise agreements with international hotel brands including Marriott, Hilton, and IHG. It generates revenue from the room, food, beverage, and other revenue.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for American Hotel Income Properties REIT Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for American Hotel Income Properties REIT and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
ASOS Plc (LON:ASC  Get Free Report) insider Jose Antonio Ramos Calamonte sold 13,061 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of GBX 219, for a total transaction of 28,603.59.

ASOS Stock Up 2.6%

ASC stock opened at GBX 239.04 on Friday. ASOS Plc has a twelve month low of GBX 215 and a twelve month high of GBX 454.20. The company has a quick ratio of 0.39, a current ratio of 1.61 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 187.55. The firm has a market capitalization of 284.90 million, a PE ratio of -0.97, a PEG ratio of -1.26 and a beta of 2.86. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of GBX 253.09 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of GBX 289.87.

Get ASOS alerts:

ASOS (LON:ASC  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Friday, November 21st. The company reported GBX (250.10) EPS for the quarter. ASOS had a negative net margin of 11.66% and a negative return on equity of 59.37%. On average, equities analysts predict that ASOS Plc will post 12.4165252 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several research firms have weighed in on ASC. Berenberg Bank reaffirmed a buy rating and issued a GBX 600 price target on shares of ASOS in a report on Thursday, November 13th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. decreased their price objective on shares of ASOS from GBX 270 to GBX 240 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research report on Monday. Peel Hunt reaffirmed an add rating and issued a GBX 335 target price on shares of ASOS in a research note on Thursday, November 13th. Panmure Gordon reiterated a hold rating and set a GBX 350 target price on shares of ASOS in a research report on Monday. Finally, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft decreased their price target on shares of ASOS from GBX 440 to GBX 375 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Friday, November 21st. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and two have issued a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of GBX 383.33.

Read Our Latest Research Report on ASOS

About ASOS

(Get Free Report)

ASOS Plc operates as an online fashion retailer in the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Sweden, the Netherlands, Denmark, Poland, and internationally. It offers womenswear and menswear products. The company sells its products under the ASOS Design, ASOS Edition, ASOS Luxe, ASOS 4505, Collusion, Reclaimed Vintage, Topshop, Topman, Miss Selfridge, HIIT, AsYou, Dark Future, UNRVLLD/SPPLY, Crooked Tongues, Daysocial, Actual, and Weekend Collective brands, as well as through third-party brands.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for ASOS Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for ASOS and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Barclays PLC (LON:BARC  Get Free Report)s share price passed above its 200-day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a 200-day moving average of GBX 362.73 and traded as high as GBX 413.55. Barclays shares last traded at GBX 410, with a volume of 30,992,604 shares trading hands.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several research analysts have recently issued reports on the company. Shore Capital reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of Barclays in a research note on Wednesday, October 22nd. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft reissued a buy rating and set a GBX 380 target price on shares of Barclays in a research note on Wednesday, July 30th. Citigroup increased their price target on Barclays from GBX 400 to GBX 415 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Thursday, October 23rd. Royal Bank Of Canada raised their target price on Barclays from GBX 435 to GBX 500 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Thursday, October 23rd. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their price objective on Barclays from GBX 500 to GBX 525 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Tuesday, November 11th. Five analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has issued a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Barclays has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of GBX 450.

Get Barclays alerts:

Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on Barclays

Barclays Trading Up 1.6%

The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of GBX 393.54 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of GBX 363.59. The firm has a market cap of 59.79 billion, a PE ratio of 10.59, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.15 and a beta of 1.36.

Barclays (LON:BARC  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, October 22nd. The financial services provider reported GBX 10.40 earnings per share for the quarter. Barclays had a return on equity of 6.97% and a net margin of 19.54%. As a group, sell-side analysts predict that Barclays PLC will post 39.1062802 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Barclays Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Barclays PLC provides various financial services in the United Kingdom, Europe, the Americas, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. The company operates through Barclays UK and Barclays International division segments. It offers financial services, such as retail banking, credit cards, wholesale banking, investment banking, wealth management, and investment management services.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Barclays Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Barclays and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Botswana Diamonds plc (LON:BOD  Get Free Report) dropped 8% during trading on Tuesday . The stock traded as low as GBX 0.23 and last traded at GBX 0.23. Approximately 3,018,301 shares were traded during trading, an increase of 13% from the average daily volume of 2,668,978 shares. The stock had previously closed at GBX 0.25.

Botswana Diamonds Stock Down 2.3%

The firm has a market cap of 2.58 million, a PE ratio of -4.30 and a beta of 0.80. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of GBX 0.27 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of GBX 0.26.

About Botswana Diamonds

(Get Free Report)

Botswana Diamonds plc explores for and develops diamond properties in Botswana, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. The company's flagship property is the Thorny River/Marsfontein property located in South Africa. It also explores primarily in the Kalahari region of Botswana. Botswana Diamonds plc was formerly known as Botswana Exploration plc and changed its name to Botswana Diamonds plc in October 2010.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Botswana Diamonds Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Botswana Diamonds and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of CBRE Global Real Estate Income Fund (NYSE:IGR  Get Free Report) crossed below its two hundred day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a two hundred day moving average of $5.02 and traded as low as $4.55. CBRE Global Real Estate Income Fund shares last traded at $4.6050, with a volume of 1,390,389 shares traded.

CBRE Global Real Estate Income Fund Stock Performance

The business has a 50 day moving average price of $4.92 and a 200-day moving average price of $5.02.

Get CBRE Global Real Estate Income Fund alerts:

CBRE Global Real Estate Income Fund Announces Dividend

The firm also recently announced a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 31st. Shareholders of record on Friday, December 19th will be issued a $0.06 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, December 19th. This represents a c) dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 15.6%.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On CBRE Global Real Estate Income Fund

CBRE Global Real Estate Income Fund Company Profile

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in IGR. Atticus Wealth Management LLC lifted its stake in shares of CBRE Global Real Estate Income Fund by 41.0% in the second quarter. Atticus Wealth Management LLC now owns 7,340 shares of the closed-end funds stock valued at $39,000 after purchasing an additional 2,136 shares during the period. Global Retirement Partners LLC increased its holdings in CBRE Global Real Estate Income Fund by 12.7% in the third quarter. Global Retirement Partners LLC now owns 25,114 shares of the closed-end funds stock valued at $129,000 after buying an additional 2,828 shares in the last quarter. Roman Butler Fullerton & Co. lifted its position in shares of CBRE Global Real Estate Income Fund by 1.2% during the 2nd quarter. Roman Butler Fullerton & Co. now owns 257,529 shares of the closed-end funds stock valued at $1,282,000 after acquiring an additional 2,997 shares during the period. SeaCrest Wealth Management LLC lifted its position in shares of CBRE Global Real Estate Income Fund by 7.8% during the 2nd quarter. SeaCrest Wealth Management LLC now owns 42,345 shares of the closed-end funds stock valued at $224,000 after acquiring an additional 3,054 shares during the period. Finally, Samalin Investment Counsel LLC boosted its stake in shares of CBRE Global Real Estate Income Fund by 3.7% during the 3rd quarter. Samalin Investment Counsel LLC now owns 93,407 shares of the closed-end funds stock worth $480,000 after acquiring an additional 3,296 shares in the last quarter.

(Get Free Report)

CBRE Clarion Global Real Estate Income Fund specializes in investments in various property types, including office, retail, diversified, apartments, industrials, hotels, healthcare, and storage. It invests in the public equity markets across the developed markets of North America, Europe, Australia, and Asia.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for CBRE Global Real Estate Income Fund Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for CBRE Global Real Estate Income Fund and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of Churchill China plc (LON:CHH  Get Free Report) crossed below its 200-day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a 200-day moving average of GBX 478.23 and traded as low as GBX 343. Churchill China shares last traded at GBX 343, with a volume of 25,236 shares trading hands.

Churchill China Trading Up 3.0%

The stock has a 50-day moving average of GBX 375.60 and a two-hundred day moving average of GBX 476.56. The company has a market cap of 39.87 million, a P/E ratio of 7.86, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 4.81 and a beta of 0.96. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.10, a quick ratio of 2.22 and a current ratio of 4.18.

Get Churchill China alerts:

Churchill China (LON:CHH  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, September 3rd. The company reported GBX 21 EPS for the quarter. Churchill China had a return on equity of 12.97% and a net margin of 9.92%. On average, equities research analysts predict that Churchill China plc will post 76.2128707 earnings per share for the current year.

Insiders Place Their Bets

Churchill China Company Profile

In other news, insider Mark Moore acquired 730 shares of Churchill China stock in a transaction on Thursday, October 23rd. The stock was acquired at an average cost of GBX 360 per share, for a total transaction of 2,628. Corporate insiders own 24.35% of the companys stock.

(Get Free Report)

Churchill China plc manufactures and sells ceramic and related products in the United Kingdom, rest of Europe, the United States, and internationally. The company provides plates, bowls, trays and boards, crates and carriers, stands and risers, cookware, counter serving ware, cups, mugs, saucers, beverage pots, jugs, chip mugs, dip pots and sauce dishes, lids, glassware, cutlery, utensils, and accessories, as well as raw materials for the ceramics industry.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Churchill China Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Churchill China and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of First Farmers and Merchants Co. (OTCMKTS:FFMH  Get Free Report) passed above its 50-day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a 50-day moving average of $45.29 and traded as high as $47.99. First Farmers and Merchants shares last traded at $47.99, with a volume of 200 shares.

First Farmers and Merchants Trading Up 0.4%

The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $45.42 and a 200 day simple moving average of $43.57.

About First Farmers and Merchants

(Get Free Report)

First Farmers and Merchants Corporation operates as the bank holding company for First Farmers and Merchants Bank that provides various banking and financial services in Middle Tennessee and Northern Alabama. The company's deposit products include personal and business checking and savings, and individual retirement and investment accounts, as well as certificates of deposit.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for First Farmers and Merchants Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for First Farmers and Merchants and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
HealthWarehouse.com Inc. (OTCMKTS:HEWA  Get Free Report)s share price crossed below its two hundred day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a two hundred day moving average of $0.12 and traded as low as $0.1090. HealthWarehouse.com shares last traded at $0.1090, with a volume of 1,764 shares changing hands.

HealthWarehouse.com Stock Down 9.2%

The businesss 50 day moving average is $0.13 and its two-hundred day moving average is $0.12.

About HealthWarehouse.com

(Get Free Report)

HealthWarehouse.com, Inc operates an online and mail order pharmacy. The company markets a range of generic, brand name, and pet prescription medicines, as well as over-the-counter (OTC) medications and products. It sells its products in 50 states and the District of Columbia in the United States to focus on the out-of-pocket prescription drug market.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for HealthWarehouse.com Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for HealthWarehouse.com and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Molson Coors Beverage (NYSE:TAP.A  Get Free Report) traded up 0.1% during mid-day trading on Tuesday . The company traded as high as $45.55 and last traded at $45.58. 482 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, an increase of 12% from the average session volume of 430 shares. The stock had previously closed at $45.55.

Molson Coors Beverage Stock Up 0.1%

The stocks 50-day moving average price is $47.65 and its 200 day moving average price is $51.46.

Get Molson Coors Beverage alerts:

Molson Coors Beverage (NYSE:TAP.A  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, November 4th. The company reported $1.67 earnings per share for the quarter. The business had revenue of $2.97 billion during the quarter.

About Molson Coors Beverage

Molson Coors Beverage Company manufactures, markets, and sells beer and other malt beverage products under various brands in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia Pacific. The company offers flavored malt beverages including hard seltzers, craft, and ready to drink beverages. It provides its products under Aspall Cider, Blue Moon, Coors Original, Hop Valley brands, Leinenkugel's, Miller Genuine Draft, Molson Ultra, Sharp's, Staropramen, and Vizzy Hard Seltzer above premier brands; Bergenbier, Borsodi, Carling, Coors Banquet, Coors Light, Jelen, Kamenitza, Miller Lite, Molson Canadian Lager, Molson Dry, Molson Export, and Niksicko, Ozujsko under the premium brands; and Branik, Icehouse, Keystone, Miller High Life, Milwaukee's Best, and Steel Reserve under the economy brands.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Molson Coors Beverage Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Molson Coors Beverage and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Oracle Power plc (LON:ORCP  Get Free Report)s share price fell 7.9% during trading on Thursday . The stock traded as low as GBX 0.03 and last traded at GBX 0.04. 229,433,156 shares were traded during trading, a decline of 0% from the average session volume of 230,563,844 shares. The stock had previously closed at GBX 0.04.

Oracle Power Stock Down 7.9%

The firm has a 50 day moving average of GBX 0.04 and a 200 day moving average of GBX 0.02. The firm has a market cap of 5.50 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -17.50 and a beta of 1.44. The company has a quick ratio of 5.67, a current ratio of 3.74 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 9.98.

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.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Oracle Power Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Oracle Power and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft (NYSE:DB  Get Free Report) and Barclays (NYSE:BCS  Get Free Report) are both large-cap finance companies, but which is the superior business? We will contrast the two companies based on the strength of their risk, valuation, institutional ownership, earnings, dividends, profitability and analyst recommendations.

Analyst Recommendations

This is a breakdown of recent ratings for Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft and Barclays, as provided by MarketBeat.

Get Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft alerts:

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft 1 5 4 1 2.45 Barclays 0 2 4 0 2.67

Dividends

Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft pays an annual dividend of $0.21 per share and has a dividend yield of 0.6%. Barclays pays an annual dividend of $0.32 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.4%. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft pays out 7.8% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Barclays pays out 14.7% 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. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft has raised its dividend for 4 consecutive years.

Risk & Volatility

Earnings and Valuation

Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft has a beta of 1.02, meaning that its share price is 2% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Barclays has a beta of 1.14, meaning that its share price is 14% more volatile than the S&P 500.

This table compares Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft and Barclayss revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft $31.58 billion 2.24 $4.70 billion $2.71 13.09 Barclays $34.23 billion 2.28 $8.06 billion $2.17 10.33

Barclays has higher revenue and earnings than Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft. Barclays is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Profitability

This table compares Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft and Barclays net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft 7.99% 6.13% 0.36% Barclays 21.26% 8.19% 0.39%

Insider and Institutional Ownership

27.9% of Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 3.4% of Barclays shares are held by institutional investors. 0.0% of Barclays shares are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, large money managers and endowments believe a company will outperform the market over the long term.

Summary

Barclays beats Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft on 10 of the 16 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft

(Get Free Report)

Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft, a stock corporation, provides corporate and investment banking, and asset management products and services to private individuals, corporate entities, and institutional clients in Germany, the United Kingdom, rest of Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the Americas, and the Asia-Pacific. It operates through Corporate Bank, Investment Bank, Private Bank, and Asset Management segments. The Corporate Bank segment offers cash management, trade finance and lending, trust and agency, and securities services, as well as risk management solutions. The Investment Bank segment provides debt origination, merger and acquisitions, foreign exchange, and equity advisory and origination platform services. The Private Bank segment offers payment and account services, and credit and deposit products, as well as investment advice products, such as environmental, social, and governance products. This segment also provides banking, wealth management, other financial, and postal and parcel services; and supports in planning, managing and investing wealth, financing personal and business interests, and servicing institutional and corporate needs. The Asset Management segment offers investment solutions, such as alternative investments, which include real estate, infrastructure, liquid real assets, and sustainable investments; and various other services, including insurance and pension solutions, asset liability management, portfolio management solutions, and asset allocation advisory to individuals and institutions. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft was founded in 1870 and is headquartered in Frankfurt am Main, Germany.

About Barclays

(Get Free Report)

Barclays PLC provides various financial services in the United Kingdom, Europe, the Americas, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. The company operates through Barclays UK and Barclays International division segments. It offers financial services, such as retail banking, credit cards, wholesale banking, investment banking, wealth management, and investment management services. In addition, the company engages in securities dealing activities. The company was formerly known as Barclays Bank Limited and changed its name to Barclays PLC in January 1985. Barclays PLC was founded in 1690 and is headquartered in London, the United Kingdom.

Receive News & Ratings for Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Romanian Investment Fund (NYSEAMERICAN:RIF  Get Free Report) crossed below its 50 day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a 50 day moving average of $11.90 and traded as low as $11.69. Romanian Investment Fund shares last traded at $11.90, with a volume of 60,100 shares changing hands.

Romanian Investment Fund Trading Up 1.2%

The stocks 50 day simple moving average is $11.90 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $11.90.

About Romanian Investment Fund

(Get Free Report)

Seven Hills Realty Trust, a real estate investment trust, focuses on originating and investing in first mortgage loans secured by middle market and transitional commercial real estate in the United States. The company has elected to be taxed as a real estate investment trust. As a result, it would not be subject to corporate income tax on that portion of its net income that is distributed to shareholders.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Romanian Investment Fund Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Romanian Investment Fund and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
STS Global Income & Growth Trust (LON:STS  Get Free Report) passed below its 200-day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a 200-day moving average of GBX 242.48 and traded as low as GBX 237.55. STS Global Income & Growth Trust shares last traded at GBX 238, with a volume of 61,261 shares trading hands.

STS Global Income & Growth Trust Trading Up 0.8%

The company has a quick ratio of 0.40, a current ratio of 0.15 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 5.00. The company has a market cap of 279.96 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.29 and a beta of 0.42. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of GBX 239.62 and a two-hundred day moving average price of GBX 242.44.

Get STS Global Income & Growth Trust alerts:

Insider Activity at STS Global Income & Growth Trust

In other news, insider Bridget Guerin acquired 4,002 shares of STS Global Income & Growth Trust stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, September 9th. The shares were bought at an average cost of GBX 248 per share, with a total value of 9,924.96. Corporate insiders own 0.54% of the companys stock.

STS Global Income & Growth Trust Company Profile

Securities Trust of Scotland plc is a closed-ended equity mutual fund launched and managed by Martin Currie Fund Management Limited. It is co-managed by Martin Currie Investment Management Limited. The fund invests in public equity markets across the globe. It seeks to invest in stocks of companies operating across diversified sectors.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for STS Global Income & Growth Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for STS Global Income & Growth Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Taylor Wimpey plc (OTCMKTS:TWODF  Get Free Report) rose 1.1% during mid-day trading on Tuesday . The company traded as high as $1.34 and last traded at $1.34. Approximately 408,476 shares traded hands during trading, an increase of 1,048% from the average daily volume of 35,573 shares. The stock had previously closed at $1.3250.

Analyst Ratings Changes

TWODF has been the topic of several analyst reports. Citigroup reiterated a buy rating on shares of Taylor Wimpey in a research note on Friday, October 3rd. The Goldman Sachs Group began coverage on shares of Taylor Wimpey in a research note on Monday. They issued a neutral rating on the stock. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy.

Get Taylor Wimpey alerts:

View Our Latest Research Report on Taylor Wimpey

Taylor Wimpey Price Performance

About Taylor Wimpey

The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $1.36 and a 200 day simple moving average of $1.42.

(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.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Taylor Wimpey Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Taylor Wimpey and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of Tenaz Energy Corp. (TSE:TNZ  Get Free Report) dropped 2.8% during mid-day trading on Tuesday . The company traded as low as C$23.55 and last traded at C$23.55. Approximately 103,319 shares were traded during mid-day trading, an increase of 33% from the average daily volume of 77,881 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$24.23.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Separately, National Bankshares lifted their price objective on Tenaz Energy from C$32.00 to C$34.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 22nd. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating and one has given a Buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Strong Buy and an average price target of C$25.75.

Get Tenaz Energy alerts:

Check Out Our Latest Research Report on Tenaz Energy

Tenaz Energy Trading Down 0.5%

The stocks 50 day simple moving average is C$24.66 and its 200 day simple moving average is C$21.25. The firm has a market cap of C$680.56 million, a PE ratio of 3.90 and a beta of 0.66. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 10.56, a quick ratio of 2.77 and a current ratio of 1.43.

Tenaz Energy (TSE:TNZ  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, November 6th. The company reported C$0.75 earnings per share for the quarter. Tenaz Energy had a net margin of 2.83% and a return on equity of 1.90%. The firm had revenue of C$93.78 million for the quarter. On average, sell-side analysts forecast that Tenaz Energy Corp. will post 0.3896418 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

About Tenaz Energy

(Get Free Report)

Tenaz Energy Corp. (TSX:TNZ) is a public energy company focused on the acquisition and sustainable development of international oil and gas assets capable of returning free cash flow to shareholders.Tenaz has domestic operations in Canada along with offshore gas assets in the Netherlands. The domestic operations consist of a semi-conventional oil project in the Rex member of the Upper Mannville group at Leduc-Woodbend in central Alberta.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Tenaz Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Tenaz Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Theriva Biologics, Inc. (NYSEAMERICAN:TOVX  Get Free Report) shares rose 3.4% on Tuesday . The stock traded as high as $0.2450 and last traded at $0.2388. Approximately 1,538,827 shares were traded during trading, a decline of 67% from the average daily volume of 4,710,868 shares. The stock had previously closed at $0.2309.

Theriva Biologics Price Performance

The firm has a market cap of $2.47 million, a P/E ratio of -0.01 and a beta of 0.65. The company has a quick ratio of 1.19, a current ratio of 1.19 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.15. The businesss 50 day moving average is $0.35 and its two-hundred day moving average is $0.42.

Get Theriva Biologics alerts:

Theriva Biologics (NYSEAMERICAN:TOVX  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, November 12th. The company reported ($0.45) earnings per share for the quarter.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Theriva Biologics

Theriva Biologics Company Profile

An institutional investor recently bought a new position in Theriva Biologics stock. Two Sigma Investments LP acquired a new position in Theriva Biologics, Inc. ( NYSEAMERICAN:TOVX Free Report ) in the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor acquired 61,837 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $25,000. Two Sigma Investments LP owned about 0.64% of Theriva Biologics as of its most recent SEC filing. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 6.17% of the companys stock.

(Get Free Report)

Theriva Biologics, Inc, a clinical-stage company, develops therapeutics to treat cancer and related diseases in areas of high unmet need in the United States. The companys lead product candidate is VCN-01, a clinical stage oncolytic human adenovirus that is in a Phase 2 clinical study for the treatment of pancreatic cancer; a Phase 1 clinical study for the treatment of retinalblastoma; a Phase 1 clinical study for the treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma; and a Phase 1 clinical study for the treatment of solid tumors.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Theriva Biologics Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Theriva Biologics and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Suncor Energy Inc. (NYSE:SU  Get Free Report) (TSE:SU) saw unusually large options trading on Wednesday. Stock investors bought 28,315 put options on the stock. This represents an increase of approximately 2,998% compared to the average daily volume of 914 put options.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Suncor Energy

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Vanguard Group Inc. grew its stake in shares of Suncor Energy by 3.1% in the 2nd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 54,631,516 shares of the oil and gas producers stock worth $2,046,442,000 after purchasing an additional 1,632,247 shares during the last quarter. Artisan Partners Limited Partnership boosted its holdings in Suncor Energy by 0.4% during the third quarter. Artisan Partners Limited Partnership now owns 33,868,775 shares of the oil and gas producers stock worth $1,417,029,000 after buying an additional 145,800 shares in the last quarter. Dodge & Cox grew its position in Suncor Energy by 0.3% in the third quarter. Dodge & Cox now owns 27,471,954 shares of the oil and gas producers stock worth $1,148,602,000 after buying an additional 70,300 shares during the last quarter. The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company increased its holdings in shares of Suncor Energy by 3.2% in the second quarter. The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company now owns 20,911,602 shares of the oil and gas producers stock valued at $779,788,000 after buying an additional 641,354 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Principal Financial Group Inc. lifted its position in shares of Suncor Energy by 0.6% during the 3rd quarter. Principal Financial Group Inc. now owns 18,854,921 shares of the oil and gas producers stock valued at $789,213,000 after acquiring an additional 106,765 shares during the last quarter. 67.37% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Get Suncor Energy alerts:

Suncor Energy Stock Performance

SU opened at $44.47 on Friday. The company has a market capitalization of $53.44 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.68, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.52 and a beta of 0.75. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.19, a current ratio of 1.26 and a quick ratio of 0.77. Suncor Energy has a 1-year low of $30.79 and a 1-year high of $45.60. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $41.60 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $39.80.

Suncor Energy Increases Dividend

Suncor Energy ( NYSE:SU Get Free Report ) (TSE:SU) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, November 4th. The oil and gas producer reported $1.07 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.85 by $0.22. Suncor Energy had a return on equity of 13.21% and a net margin of 11.35%.The company had revenue of $9.04 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $8.82 billion. During the same period last year, the firm earned $1.48 EPS. Research analysts predict that Suncor Energy will post 3.42 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 24th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, December 3rd will be given a $0.60 dividend. This represents a $2.40 annualized dividend and a yield of 5.4%. This is a boost from Suncor Energys previous quarterly dividend of $0.41. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, December 3rd. Suncor Energys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 55.74%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

SU has been the topic of a number of recent research reports. Weiss Ratings restated a buy (b) rating on shares of Suncor Energy in a research report on Tuesday. Royal Bank Of Canada reaffirmed an outperform rating and set a $65.00 target price on shares of Suncor Energy in a report on Friday, October 3rd. Raymond James Financial upgraded Suncor Energy from a market perform rating to an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, November 6th. Wells Fargo & Company initiated coverage on shares of Suncor Energy in a report on Friday, October 17th. They set an equal weight rating for the company. Finally, Zacks Research lowered shares of Suncor Energy from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 15th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, four have given a Buy rating, four have assigned a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $65.00.

View Our Latest Stock Report on Suncor Energy

Suncor Energy Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Suncor Energy Inc operates as an integrated energy company in Canada, the United States, and internationally. It operates through Oil Sands; Exploration and Production; and Refining and Marketing segments. The Oil Sands segment explores, develops, and produces bitumen, synthetic crude oil, and related products.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Suncor Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Suncor Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Several brokerages have updated their recommendations and price targets on shares of Pebblebrook Hotel Trust (NYSE: PEB) in the last few weeks:

11/25/2025  Pebblebrook Hotel Trust had its sell (d) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings.

11/24/2025  Pebblebrook Hotel Trust was downgraded by analysts at Zacks Research from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating.

11/19/2025  Pebblebrook Hotel Trust had its sell (d) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings.

11/13/2025  Pebblebrook Hotel Trust had its sell (d) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings.

11/10/2025  Pebblebrook Hotel Trust was downgraded by analysts at Compass Point from a neutral rating to a sell rating. They now have a $11.50 price target on the stock, down previously from $12.00.

11/6/2025  Pebblebrook Hotel Trust was given a new $13.50 price target on by analysts at Stifel Nicolaus.

10/24/2025  Pebblebrook Hotel Trust was upgraded by analysts at Zacks Research from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating.

10/22/2025  Pebblebrook Hotel Trust was given a new $9.00 price target on by analysts at Morgan Stanley.

10/8/2025  Pebblebrook Hotel Trust had its sell (d+) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings.

10/3/2025  Pebblebrook Hotel Trust was upgraded by analysts at Wells Fargo & Company to a hold rating.

10/1/2025  Pebblebrook Hotel Trust is now covered by analysts at Cantor Fitzgerald. They set a neutral rating and a $12.00 price target on the stock.

10/1/2025  Pebblebrook Hotel Trust is now covered by analysts at Cantor Fitzgerald. They set a neutral rating and a $12.00 price target on the stock.

Pebblebrook Hotel Trust Announces Dividend

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, October 15th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, September 30th were paid a dividend of $0.01 per share. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, September 30th. This represents a $0.04 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.4%. Pebblebrook Hotel Trusts dividend payout ratio is presently -3.36%.

Pebblebrook Hotel Trust (NYSE: PEB) is a publicly traded real estate investment trust ("REIT") and the largest owner of urban and resort lifestyle hotels and resorts in the United States. The Company owns 47 hotels and resorts, totaling approximately 12,200 guest rooms across 13 urban and resort markets.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Pebblebrook Hotel Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Pebblebrook Hotel Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Global Retirement Partners LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Illinois Tool Works Inc. (NYSE:ITW  Free Report) during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund purchased 3,468 shares of the industrial products companys stock, valued at approximately $857,000.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently modified their holdings of ITW. Jefferies Financial Group Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Illinois Tool Works by 7.2% during the 2nd quarter. Jefferies Financial Group Inc. now owns 18,509 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $4,576,000 after buying an additional 1,237 shares in the last quarter. Prudential Financial Inc. raised its holdings in Illinois Tool Works by 8.9% during the second quarter. Prudential Financial Inc. now owns 155,743 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $38,507,000 after acquiring an additional 12,670 shares during the period. Coldstream Capital Management Inc. lifted its position in shares of Illinois Tool Works by 6.5% in the second quarter. Coldstream Capital Management Inc. now owns 8,530 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $2,109,000 after acquiring an additional 524 shares in the last quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Illinois Tool Works by 0.5% in the second quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 2,541,391 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $628,360,000 after acquiring an additional 12,558 shares during the period. Finally, American Century Companies Inc. grew its position in shares of Illinois Tool Works by 5.5% during the second quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 63,752 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $15,763,000 after purchasing an additional 3,311 shares in the last quarter. 79.77% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Get Illinois Tool Works alerts:

Insider Buying and Selling at Illinois Tool Works

In related news, CAO Randall J. Scheuneman sold 6,802 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Thursday, September 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $265.08, for a total value of $1,803,074.16. Following the sale, the chief accounting officer directly owned 10,314 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,734,035.12. This represents a 39.74% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, Director Pamela B. Strobel sold 1,521 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, November 5th. The shares were sold at an average price of $245.25, for a total value of $373,025.25. Following the transaction, the director owned 39,249 shares of the companys stock, valued at $9,625,817.25. This trade represents a 3.73% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. Corporate insiders own 0.88% of the companys stock.

Illinois Tool Works Stock Up 0.4%

Shares of NYSE ITW opened at $249.27 on Friday. The company has a current ratio of 1.53, a quick ratio of 1.11 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.39. Illinois Tool Works Inc. has a 12-month low of $214.66 and a 12-month high of $279.13. The firms 50-day moving average price is $250.02 and its 200-day moving average price is $253.20. The stock has a market capitalization of $72.31 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 24.18, a P/E/G ratio of 4.10 and a beta of 1.11.

Illinois Tool Works (NYSE:ITW  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Friday, October 24th. The industrial products company reported $2.81 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.72 by $0.09. The company had revenue of $4.06 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.09 billion. Illinois Tool Works had a return on equity of 93.26% and a net margin of 19.05%.The firms revenue for the quarter was up 2.3% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $3.91 earnings per share. Illinois Tool Works has set its FY 2025 guidance at 10.400-10.500 EPS. On average, equities research analysts anticipate that Illinois Tool Works Inc. will post 10.39 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Illinois Tool Works Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, January 9th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, December 31st will be given a dividend of $1.61 per share. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, December 31st. This represents a $6.44 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.6%. Illinois Tool Workss payout ratio is 62.46%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

ITW has been the topic of a number of research analyst reports. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft boosted their price target on Illinois Tool Works from $265.00 to $268.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a report on Thursday, October 2nd. Robert W. Baird set a $265.00 target price on shares of Illinois Tool Works in a report on Monday, October 27th. Bank of America upgraded shares of Illinois Tool Works from an underperform rating to a neutral rating and lifted their price target for the company from $220.00 to $255.00 in a report on Tuesday, November 18th. Evercore ISI dropped their price objective on shares of Illinois Tool Works from $261.00 to $253.00 and set an underperform rating for the company in a report on Monday, November 17th. Finally, Barclays lifted their target price on Illinois Tool Works from $243.00 to $244.00 and gave the stock an underweight rating in a report on Monday, October 27th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, eight have issued a Hold rating and three have issued a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Reduce and an average price target of $263.77.

Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on ITW

Illinois Tool Works Profile

(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.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Illinois Tool Works Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Illinois Tool Works and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Swiss National Bank acquired a new stake in Franklin Resources, Inc. (NYSE:BEN  Free Report) in the 2nd quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The firm acquired 552,100 shares of the closed-end funds stock, valued at approximately $13,168,000.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently modified their holdings of the business. Manchester Capital Management LLC grew its holdings in shares of Franklin Resources by 49.9% in the first quarter. Manchester Capital Management LLC now owns 1,668 shares of the closed-end funds stock valued at $32,000 after acquiring an additional 555 shares in the last quarter. Brooklyn Investment Group boosted its position in Franklin Resources by 78.3% in the first quarter. Brooklyn Investment Group now owns 3,139 shares of the closed-end funds stock worth $60,000 after purchasing an additional 1,378 shares during the last quarter. Assetmark Inc. boosted its position in Franklin Resources by 80.2% in the second quarter. Assetmark Inc. now owns 2,777 shares of the closed-end funds stock worth $66,000 after purchasing an additional 1,236 shares during the last quarter. CX Institutional grew its stake in Franklin Resources by 245.1% in the 2nd quarter. CX Institutional now owns 3,379 shares of the closed-end funds stock valued at $81,000 after purchasing an additional 2,400 shares during the period. Finally, Signaturefd LLC increased its position in shares of Franklin Resources by 51.9% during the 2nd quarter. Signaturefd LLC now owns 3,938 shares of the closed-end funds stock valued at $94,000 after purchasing an additional 1,346 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 47.56% of the companys stock.

Get Franklin Resources alerts:

Franklin Resources Price Performance

BEN opened at $22.52 on Friday. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $22.79 and a 200-day moving average price of $23.49. Franklin Resources, Inc. has a twelve month low of $16.25 and a twelve month high of $26.08. The company has a quick ratio of 1.55, a current ratio of 1.55 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.94. The company has a market capitalization of $11.73 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 44.17, a PEG ratio of 1.65 and a beta of 1.49.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Franklin Resources ( NYSE:BEN Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Friday, November 7th. The closed-end fund reported $0.67 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.57 by $0.10. Franklin Resources had a net margin of 3.73% and a return on equity of 8.76%. The company had revenue of $1.82 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.17 billion. During the same period last year, the firm earned $0.59 EPS. Franklin Resourcess revenue for the quarter was up 6.0% on a year-over-year basis. Equities analysts expect that Franklin Resources, Inc. will post 2.16 EPS for the current year.

A number of equities analysts recently weighed in on BEN shares. Barclays cut their price target on shares of Franklin Resources from $23.00 to $20.00 and set an underweight rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, October 21st. Evercore ISI dropped their target price on shares of Franklin Resources from $25.00 to $23.00 and set an underperform rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, October 9th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. reduced their target price on shares of Franklin Resources from $26.00 to $25.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Monday, November 10th. Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c+) rating on shares of Franklin Resources in a research note on Monday. Finally, Morgan Stanley upped their price objective on Franklin Resources from $20.00 to $21.00 and gave the company an underweight rating in a research note on Tuesday, August 12th. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, five have given a Hold rating and five have issued a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Reduce and a consensus target price of $23.91.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on BEN

Franklin Resources Profile

(Free Report)

Franklin Resources, Inc is a publicly owned asset management holding company. Through its subsidiaries, the firm provides its services to individuals, institutions, pension plans, trusts, and partnerships. It launches equity, fixed income, balanced, and multi-asset mutual funds through its subsidiaries.

Read More

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BEN? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Franklin Resources, Inc. (NYSE:BEN  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Franklin Resources Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Franklin Resources and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Employees Retirement System of Texas acquired a new position in shares of The Clorox Company (NYSE:CLX  Free Report) in the 2nd quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The fund acquired 5,909 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $709,000.

A number of other hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of CLX. Nomura Asset Management Co. Ltd. lifted its stake in shares of Clorox by 9.0% during the 2nd quarter. Nomura Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 335,514 shares of the companys stock worth $40,285,000 after acquiring an additional 27,639 shares during the last quarter. Simplicity Wealth LLC increased its stake in Clorox by 157.3% in the second quarter. Simplicity Wealth LLC now owns 18,316 shares of the companys stock worth $2,199,000 after purchasing an additional 11,198 shares during the period. Raymond James Financial Inc. lifted its position in shares of Clorox by 15.6% during the first quarter. Raymond James Financial Inc. now owns 269,926 shares of the companys stock worth $39,747,000 after purchasing an additional 36,352 shares during the last quarter. Vise Technologies Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Clorox during the second quarter valued at $328,000. Finally, Nuance Investments LLC boosted its stake in shares of Clorox by 182.5% during the second quarter. Nuance Investments LLC now owns 848,106 shares of the companys stock valued at $101,832,000 after purchasing an additional 547,839 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 78.53% of the companys stock.

Get Clorox alerts:

Insider Buying and Selling

In other news, COO Eric H. Reynolds sold 15,041 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Thursday, September 4th. The stock was sold at an average price of $123.78, for a total transaction of $1,861,774.98. Following the transaction, the chief operating officer directly owned 54,221 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $6,711,475.38. This represents a 21.72% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, Director Pierre R. Breber acquired 4,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, November 21st. The shares were acquired at an average price of $104.13 per share, with a total value of $416,520.00. Following the acquisition, the director owned 13,000 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,353,690. The trade was a 44.44% increase in their position. The SEC filing for this purchase provides additional information. Corporate insiders own 0.63% of the companys stock.

Clorox Trading Up 0.8%

Shares of NYSE CLX opened at $107.75 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 5.15, a current ratio of 0.84 and a quick ratio of 0.57. The stock has a market capitalization of $13.14 billion, a P/E ratio of 16.53, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.92 and a beta of 0.52. The Clorox Company has a 1-year low of $98.20 and a 1-year high of $171.37. The business has a fifty day moving average price of $113.90 and a 200 day moving average price of $121.57.

Clorox (NYSE:CLX  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Monday, November 3rd. The company reported $0.85 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.78 by $0.07. The company had revenue of $1.43 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.41 billion. Clorox had a return on equity of 377.86% and a net margin of 11.40%.The firms quarterly revenue was down 18.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $1.86 earnings per share. Clorox has set its FY 2026 guidance at 5.950-6.300 EPS. Equities research analysts expect that The Clorox Company will post 7.15 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Clorox Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, February 13th. Investors of record on Wednesday, January 28th will be paid a dividend of $1.24 per share. This represents a $4.96 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.6%. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, January 28th. Cloroxs payout ratio is 77.86%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of equities research analysts recently weighed in on the stock. Morgan Stanley decreased their price objective on shares of Clorox from $137.00 to $125.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, November 4th. TD Cowen decreased their price target on shares of Clorox from $120.00 to $117.00 and set a hold rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, October 1st. Barclays lowered their price target on Clorox from $112.00 to $108.00 and set an underweight rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, November 4th. UBS Group set a $119.00 price objective on Clorox and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Tuesday, November 4th. Finally, BNP Paribas Exane lowered their target price on Clorox from $110.00 to $103.00 and set an underperform rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, November 4th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, twelve have given a Hold rating and five have given a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Reduce and a consensus target price of $125.69.

Get Our Latest Analysis on CLX

About Clorox

(Free Report)

The Clorox Company manufactures and markets consumer and professional products worldwide. It operates through four segments: Health and Wellness, Household, Lifestyle, and International. The Health and Wellness segment offers cleaning products, such as laundry additives and home care products primarily under the Clorox, Clorox2, Scentiva, Pine-Sol, Liquid-Plumr, Tilex, and Formula 409 brands; professional cleaning and disinfecting products under the CloroxPro and Clorox Healthcare brands; professional food service products under the Hidden Valley brand; and vitamins, minerals and supplement products under the RenewLife, Natural Vitality, NeoCell, and Rainbow Light brands in the United States.

Featured Articles

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CLX? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for The Clorox Company (NYSE:CLX  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Clorox Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Clorox and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
AngloGold Ashanti PLC (NYSE:AU  Get Free Report) gapped down before the market opened on Friday . The stock had previously closed at $88.91, but opened at $84.30. AngloGold Ashanti shares last traded at $84.4260, with a volume of 2,088,997 shares trading hands.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

AU has been the subject of several recent analyst reports. Wall Street Zen raised shares of AngloGold Ashanti from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Saturday, November 15th. Weiss Ratings raised shares of AngloGold Ashanti from a hold (c+) rating to a buy (b-) rating in a research report on Friday, October 24th. Scotiabank boosted their price objective on AngloGold Ashanti from $90.00 to $92.00 and gave the company a sector outperform rating in a report on Wednesday, November 12th. Roth Capital set a $76.00 price objective on AngloGold Ashanti and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Friday, October 3rd. Finally, Zacks Research upgraded AngloGold Ashanti from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 28th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, six have given a Buy rating and one has given a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $69.50.

Get AngloGold Ashanti alerts:

View Our Latest Stock Report on AU

AngloGold Ashanti Trading Down 5.4%

The company has a current ratio of 2.99, a quick ratio of 2.22 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.22. The businesss 50-day moving average is $73.42 and its two-hundred day moving average is $58.56. The firm has a market cap of $35.29 billion, a P/E ratio of 22.31 and a beta of 0.48.

AngloGold Ashanti (NYSE:AU  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, November 11th. The mining company reported $1.32 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.34 by ($0.02). AngloGold Ashanti had a return on equity of 22.54% and a net margin of 23.60%.The business had revenue of $2.37 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.53 billion. As a group, analysts expect that AngloGold Ashanti PLC will post 3.83 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

AngloGold Ashanti Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 12th. Investors of record on Friday, November 28th will be given a dividend of $0.91 per share. The ex-dividend date is Friday, November 28th. This represents a $3.64 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 4.3%. AngloGold Ashantis payout ratio is currently 80.18%.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On AngloGold Ashanti

A number of hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Liontrust Investment Partners LLP bought a new position in shares of AngloGold Ashanti during the third quarter worth about $213,000. CIBC Private Wealth Group LLC lifted its position in AngloGold Ashanti by 33.4% in the 3rd quarter. CIBC Private Wealth Group LLC now owns 599 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $42,000 after purchasing an additional 150 shares during the last quarter. Coldstream Capital Management Inc. acquired a new position in AngloGold Ashanti during the 3rd quarter valued at about $212,000. Danske Bank A S bought a new position in AngloGold Ashanti in the 3rd quarter worth about $717,000. Finally, Advisory Services Network LLC increased its stake in shares of AngloGold Ashanti by 328.7% in the third quarter. Advisory Services Network LLC now owns 24,862 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $1,749,000 after purchasing an additional 19,063 shares during the period. 36.09% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

AngloGold Ashanti Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

AngloGold Ashanti plc operates as a gold mining company in Africa, Australia, and the Americas. The company primarily explores for gold, as well as produces silver and sulphuric acid as by-products. Its flagship property is a 100% owned Geita mine located in the Lake Victoria goldfields of the Mwanza region in north-western Tanzania.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for AngloGold Ashanti Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for AngloGold Ashanti and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Quadrant Capital Group LLC increased its position in shares of Aon plc (NYSE:AON  Free Report) by 43.8% during the second quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 6,666 shares of the financial services providers stock after buying an additional 2,032 shares during the quarter. Quadrant Capital Group LLCs holdings in AON were worth $2,378,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

A number of other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in AON. Vinva Investment Management Ltd grew its position in shares of AON by 10.1% in the second quarter. Vinva Investment Management Ltd now owns 7,821 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $2,759,000 after purchasing an additional 719 shares during the period. Employees Retirement System of Texas grew its holdings in shares of AON by 88.1% during the second quarter. Employees Retirement System of Texas now owns 20,174 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $7,197,000 after buying an additional 9,448 shares in the last quarter. Choreo LLC boosted its position in AON by 13.1% during the second quarter. Choreo LLC now owns 7,490 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $2,672,000 after acquiring an additional 870 shares during the last quarter. Northwest & Ethical Investments L.P. acquired a new stake in AON in the 2nd quarter valued at about $928,000. Finally, Russell Investments Group Ltd. boosted its holdings in shares of AON by 1.2% during the 2nd quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd. now owns 291,660 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $104,022,000 after purchasing an additional 3,354 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 86.14% of the companys stock.

Get AON alerts:

AON Stock Up 0.6%

AON stock opened at $353.09 on Friday. The stocks fifty day simple moving average is $349.13 and its 200-day simple moving average is $357.13. The company has a current ratio of 1.52, a quick ratio of 1.52 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.93. The firm has a market capitalization of $75.89 billion, a P/E ratio of 29.57, a P/E/G ratio of 1.92 and a beta of 0.86. Aon plc has a twelve month low of $323.73 and a twelve month high of $412.97.

AON Dividend Announcement

AON ( NYSE:AON Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Friday, October 31st. The financial services provider reported $3.05 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.91 by $0.14. The business had revenue of $4 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $3.97 billion. AON had a return on equity of 50.91% and a net margin of 15.54%.The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 7.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $2.72 earnings per share. As a group, equities analysts expect that Aon plc will post 17.21 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, November 14th. Stockholders of record on Monday, November 3rd were issued a $0.745 dividend. This represents a $2.98 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.8%. The ex-dividend date was Monday, November 3rd. AONs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 23.88%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of equities analysts have weighed in on AON shares. Cantor Fitzgerald raised AON to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, August 13th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods dropped their price objective on shares of AON from $428.00 to $410.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, November 4th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. reduced their target price on shares of AON from $436.00 to $433.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, October 9th. Citigroup raised shares of AON from a neutral rating to a buy rating and set a $402.00 price target for the company in a research note on Monday, November 3rd. Finally, UBS Group lowered their price objective on AON from $400.00 to $390.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Monday, November 10th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, twelve have assigned a Buy rating and five have issued a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $416.56.

Read Our Latest Analysis on AON

AON Company Profile

(Free Report)

Aon Plc engages in the provision of risk, health, and wealth solutions. It focuses on risk capital including claim management, reinsurance, risk analysis, management, retention, and transfer; and human capital involving analytics, health and benefits, investments, pensions and retirement, talent and rewards, and workplace wellbeing.

See Also

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding AON? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Aon plc (NYSE:AON  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for AON Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for AON and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Arcus Biosciences (NYSE:RCUS  Get Free Report) had its price objective increased by research analysts at Bank of America from $17.00 to $26.00 in a research note issued on Friday,Benzinga reports. The brokerage presently has a neutral rating on the stock. Bank of Americas price target would suggest a potential upside of 0.68% from the companys current price.

RCUS has been the topic of several other reports. Wedbush set a $35.00 target price on Arcus Biosciences and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 29th. The Goldman Sachs Group upped their target price on Arcus Biosciences from $14.00 to $16.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, October 30th. Wells Fargo & Company lifted their price target on shares of Arcus Biosciences from $25.00 to $29.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Monday, October 20th. HC Wainwright upped their price objective on shares of Arcus Biosciences from $24.00 to $28.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 29th. Finally, Truist Financial reissued a buy rating and set a $39.00 target price (up previously from $32.00) on shares of Arcus Biosciences in a research note on Tuesday, October 7th. Seven 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.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $29.44.

Get Arcus Biosciences alerts:

Get Our Latest Stock Report on Arcus Biosciences

Arcus Biosciences Trading Up 1.0%

Shares of RCUS stock traded up $0.27 during trading hours on Friday, reaching $25.83. 362,857 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 1,121,739. The firm has a market capitalization of $2.79 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -7.50 and a beta of 0.90. Arcus Biosciences has a 12-month low of $6.50 and a 12-month high of $26.32. The companys 50-day moving average price is $17.67 and its 200-day moving average price is $12.43. The company has a current ratio of 3.65, a quick ratio of 3.65 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.22.

Arcus Biosciences (NYSE:RCUS  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, October 28th. The company reported ($1.27) EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of ($1.33) by $0.06. Arcus Biosciences had a negative return on equity of 68.17% and a negative net margin of 136.40%.The company had revenue of $26.00 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $19.89 million. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted ($1.00) EPS. Arcus Biosciencess quarterly revenue was down 45.8% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that Arcus Biosciences will post -3.15 earnings per share for the current year.

Insider Buying and Selling at Arcus Biosciences

In other Arcus Biosciences news, COO Jennifer Jarrett sold 37,792 shares of Arcus Biosciences stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, October 8th. The stock was sold at an average price of $15.05, for a total value of $568,769.60. Following the transaction, the chief operating officer directly owned 214,232 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,224,191.60. This trade represents a 15.00% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, CAO Alexander Azoy sold 2,831 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, September 29th. The shares were sold at an average price of $13.00, for a total value of $36,803.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief accounting officer directly owned 27,363 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $355,719. This trade represents a 9.38% decrease in their position. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Insiders have sold 210,875 shares of company stock worth $4,017,263 in the last 90 days. Company insiders own 9.60% of the companys stock.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Arcus Biosciences

Institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the business. GAMMA Investing LLC boosted its stake in shares of Arcus Biosciences by 59.1% during the 3rd quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 2,748 shares of the companys stock valued at $37,000 after buying an additional 1,021 shares during the last quarter. SBI Securities Co. Ltd. raised its holdings in Arcus Biosciences by 13,547.6% in the third quarter. SBI Securities Co. Ltd. now owns 2,866 shares of the companys stock valued at $39,000 after acquiring an additional 2,845 shares in the last quarter. Abich Financial Wealth Management LLC acquired a new stake in Arcus Biosciences in the third quarter valued at $69,000. CWM LLC boosted its stake in Arcus Biosciences by 233.6% during the 2nd quarter. CWM LLC now owns 5,441 shares of the companys stock valued at $44,000 after acquiring an additional 3,810 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Ameritas Investment Partners Inc. grew its holdings in Arcus Biosciences by 34.3% during the 2nd quarter. Ameritas Investment Partners Inc. now owns 7,038 shares of the companys stock worth $57,000 after acquiring an additional 1,796 shares in the last quarter. 92.89% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About Arcus Biosciences

(Get Free Report)

Arcus Biosciences, Inc, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, develops and commercializes cancer therapies in the United States. The company's pipeline products include Domvanalimab, an anti-TIGIT antibody, which is in Phase 2 and Phase 3 clinical trial; and AB308, an investigational anti-TIGIT monoclonal antibody, which is in Phase 1b clinical trial to study people with advanced solid and hematologic malignancies.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Arcus Biosciences Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Arcus Biosciences and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Prologis, Teledyne Technologies, Ascendis Pharma A/S, Hamilton Lane, Canopy Growth, Hercules Capital, and BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust are the seven Growth stocks to watch today, according to MarketBeats stock screener tool. Growth stocks are shares of companies expected to grow revenue and earnings faster than the overall market, often because they operate in expanding industries or reinvest profits to fuel future expansion. Investors buy them primarily for capital appreciation rather than income; they often trade at higher valuations and can be more volatile than value or dividend-paying stocks. These companies had the highest dollar trading volume of any Growth stocks within the last several days.

Get alerts:

Prologis (PLD)

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.

Teledyne Technologies (TDY)

Teledyne Technologies Incorporated, together with its subsidiaries, provides enabling technologies for industrial growth markets in the United States and internationally. Its Digital Imaging segment provides visible spectrum sensors and digital cameras; and infrared, ultraviolet, visible, and X-ray spectra; as well as micro electromechanical systems and semiconductors, including analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog converters.

Read Our Latest Research Report on TDY

Ascendis Pharma A/S (ASND)

Ascendis Pharma A/S, a biopharmaceutical company, focuses on developing therapies for unmet medical needs. It offers SKYTROFA for treating patients with growth hormone deficiency (GHD). The company is also developing a pipeline of three independent endocrinology rare disease product candidates in clinical development, as well as focuses on advancing oncology therapeutic candidates.

Read Our Latest Research Report on ASND

Hamilton Lane (HLNE)

Hamilton Lane Incorporated is a private equity firm specializing in early venture, emerging growth, turnaround, middle market, mature, mid-venture, bridge, buyout, distressed/vulture, loan, mezzanine in growth capital companies. It prefers to invest in energy, industrials, consumer discretionary, health care, real estate, information technology, utilities, and consumer services.

Read Our Latest Research Report on HLNE

Canopy Growth (CGC)

Canopy Growth Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the production, distribution, and sale of cannabis and hemp-based products for recreational and medical purposes primarily in the United States, Canada, Germany, and internationally. It operates through Canada Cannabis, International Markets Cannabis, and Storz & Bickel segments.

Read Our Latest Research Report on CGC

Hercules Capital (HTGC)

Hercules Capital, Inc. is a business development company. The firm specializing in providing venture debt, debt, senior secured loans, and growth capital to privately held venture capital-backed companies at all stages of development from startups to expansion stage including select publicly listed companies and select special opportunity lower middle market companies that require additional capital to fund acquisitions, recapitalizations and refinancing and established-stage companies.

Read Our Latest Research Report on HTGC

BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust (BIGZ)

BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust is a mutual fund launched by BlackRock, Inc. and managed by BlackRock Advisors, LLC. BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust is based in United States.

Read Our Latest Research Report on BIGZ

See Also
State Board of Administration of Florida Retirement System raised its stake in shares of BlackRock (NYSE:BLK  Free Report) by 2.7% in the second quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The institutional investor owned 144,929 shares of the asset managers stock after purchasing an additional 3,822 shares during the period. State Board of Administration of Florida Retirement Systems holdings in BlackRock were worth $152,067,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the stock. Game Plan Financial Advisors LLC raised its stake in shares of BlackRock by 100.0% during the 1st quarter. Game Plan Financial Advisors LLC now owns 30 shares of the asset managers stock worth $28,000 after purchasing an additional 15 shares in the last quarter. Garde Capital Inc. increased its stake in shares of BlackRock by 200.0% during the 2nd quarter. Garde Capital Inc. now owns 27 shares of the asset managers stock worth $28,000 after purchasing an additional 18 shares during the last quarter. Traub Capital Management LLC bought a new position in shares of BlackRock during the 2nd quarter valued at $28,000. Cheviot Value Management LLC bought a new stake in BlackRock in the first quarter worth $30,000. Finally, Whipplewood Advisors LLC increased its position in BlackRock by 107.1% during the second quarter. Whipplewood Advisors LLC now owns 29 shares of the asset managers stock worth $30,000 after buying an additional 15 shares during the last quarter. 80.69% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Get BlackRock alerts:

BlackRock Stock Up 1.1%

Shares of BLK opened at $1,041.18 on Friday. The company has a quick ratio of 4.04, a current ratio of 4.04 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.39. The company has a 50-day moving average price of $1,109.83 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $1,080.30. The stock has a market cap of $161.54 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 26.77, a P/E/G ratio of 1.90 and a beta of 1.48. BlackRock has a 12 month low of $773.74 and a 12 month high of $1,219.94.

BlackRock Dividend Announcement

BlackRock ( NYSE:BLK Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, October 14th. The asset manager reported $11.55 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $11.78 by ($0.23). The company had revenue of $6.51 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $6.22 billion. BlackRock had a net margin of 26.64% and a return on equity of 15.36%. The businesss revenue was up 25.2% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the company earned $11.46 earnings per share. Equities analysts predict that BlackRock will post 47.41 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 23rd. Stockholders of record on Friday, December 5th will be paid a dividend of $5.21 per share. This represents a $20.84 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.0%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, December 5th. BlackRocks dividend payout ratio is 53.59%.

Insider Buying and Selling

In other news, Director Rachel Lord sold 12,000 shares of BlackRock stock in a transaction on Monday, October 20th. The stock was sold at an average price of $1,165.04, for a total value of $13,980,480.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director directly owned 7,205 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $8,394,113.20. This trade represents a 62.48% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Insiders own 1.98% of the companys stock.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

BLK has been the subject of several analyst reports. Citigroup boosted their target price on BlackRock from $1,200.00 to $1,350.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Monday, September 29th. BMO Capital Markets raised their target price on BlackRock from $1,280.00 to $1,300.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Tuesday, October 21st. Argus raised their price objective on shares of BlackRock from $1,165.00 to $1,330.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 15th. Loop Capital set a $1,255.00 price target on shares of BlackRock in a report on Tuesday, October 21st. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group raised their price target on shares of BlackRock from $1,196.00 to $1,325.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 7th. Seventeen analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and three have given a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $1,302.59.

Get Our Latest Research Report on BlackRock

About BlackRock

(Free Report)

BlackRock, Inc is a publicly owned investment manager. The firm primarily provides its services to institutional, intermediary, and individual investors including corporate, public, union, and industry pension plans, insurance companies, third-party mutual funds, endowments, public institutions, governments, foundations, charities, sovereign wealth funds, corporations, official institutions, and banks.

Recommended Stories

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BLK? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for BlackRock (NYSE:BLK  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for BlackRock Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for BlackRock and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of Bluebird Merchant Ventures Limited (LON:BMV  Get Free Report) dropped 7.5% on Friday . The stock traded as low as GBX 0.37 and last traded at GBX 0.37. Approximately 383,417 shares were traded during trading, a decline of 97% from the average daily volume of 12,538,350 shares. The stock had previously closed at GBX 0.40.

Bluebird Merchant Ventures Price Performance

The company has a market capitalization of 3.20 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -1.12 and a beta of 0.62. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of GBX 0.55 and a 200-day simple moving average of GBX 0.85. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.29, a current ratio of 0.08 and a quick ratio of 0.08.

Bluebird Merchant Ventures Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Bluebird Merchant Ventures Limited, together with its subsidiaries, engages in mining and developing of mineral properties. The company primarily explores for gold and silver deposits. It holds interests in the Gubong project and Kochang project located in South Korea. The company was incorporated in 2014 and is based in Road Town, the British Virgin Islands.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for Bluebird Merchant Ventures Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bluebird Merchant Ventures and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of Duke Energy Corporation (NYSE:DUK  Get Free Report) have been given an average rating of Moderate Buy by the nineteen brokerages that are covering the firm, MarketBeat Ratings reports. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell recommendation, six have given a hold recommendation, eleven have assigned a buy recommendation and one has given a strong buy recommendation to the company. The average 1-year price target among brokerages that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is $138.4375.

Several analysts have recently commented on DUK shares. BMO Capital Markets decreased their price objective on Duke Energy from $138.00 to $136.00 in a report on Monday, November 10th. Royal Bank Of Canada upgraded Duke Energy to a hold rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 28th. Cowen initiated coverage on Duke Energy in a report on Wednesday, October 15th. They issued a buy rating for the company. Jefferies Financial Group upped their price objective on shares of Duke Energy from $134.00 to $138.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a report on Wednesday, October 15th. Finally, Evercore ISI started coverage on shares of Duke Energy in a research note on Monday, October 6th. They issued an outperform rating and a $143.00 target price for the company.

Get Duke Energy alerts:

Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on Duke Energy

Insider Activity

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

In related news, EVP Robert Alexander Glenn sold 8,200 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Wednesday, November 19th. The stock was sold at an average price of $123.80, for a total value of $1,015,160.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president owned 11,367 shares in the company, valued at $1,407,234.60. This trade represents a 41.91% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this link . 0.14% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the company. Simon Quick Advisors LLC lifted its holdings in Duke Energy by 42.2% during the second quarter. Simon Quick Advisors LLC now owns 7,444 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $878,000 after purchasing an additional 2,210 shares in the last quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. increased its stake in shares of Duke Energy by 1.1% during the first quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 8,656,244 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $1,055,087,000 after purchasing an additional 93,699 shares in the last quarter. Resolution Capital Ltd raised its position in shares of Duke Energy by 7.6% during the 1st quarter. Resolution Capital Ltd now owns 59,995 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $7,318,000 after purchasing an additional 4,255 shares during the last quarter. Raymond James Financial Inc. lifted its stake in Duke Energy by 88.1% in the 1st quarter. Raymond James Financial Inc. now owns 4,861,309 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $592,934,000 after buying an additional 2,276,948 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Westbourne Investments Inc. acquired a new stake in Duke Energy in the 2nd quarter worth about $282,000. 65.31% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Duke Energy Stock Up 1.3%

NYSE:DUK opened at $123.52 on Friday. The companys 50-day simple moving average is $124.52 and its 200-day simple moving average is $121.02. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.55, a quick ratio of 0.42 and a current ratio of 0.66. Duke Energy has a fifty-two week low of $105.20 and a fifty-two week high of $130.03. The stock has a market capitalization of $96.06 billion, a P/E ratio of 20.08, a P/E/G ratio of 3.05 and a beta of 0.45.

Duke Energy (NYSE:DUK  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, November 6th. The utilities provider reported $1.81 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.75 by $0.06. The firm had revenue of $8.54 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $8.51 billion. Duke Energy had a net margin of 15.51% and a return on equity of 9.85%. Duke Energys revenue was up 4.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $1.62 EPS. On average, equities analysts anticipate that Duke Energy will post 6.33 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Duke Energy Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 16th. Stockholders of record on Friday, November 14th will be issued a dividend of $1.065 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 14th. This represents a $4.26 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.4%. Duke Energys payout ratio is 66.98%.

Duke Energy Company Profile

(Get 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.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Duke Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Duke Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Brookfield Infrastructure Partners LP (NYSE:BIP  Get Free Report) (TSE:BIP.UN) hit a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Wednesday . The company traded as high as $36.12 and last traded at $36.11, with a volume of 102945 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at $35.80.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several brokerages recently issued reports on BIP. Wall Street Zen raised Brookfield Infrastructure Partners from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Saturday, November 8th. National Bank Financial raised Brookfield Infrastructure Partners from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Thursday, September 25th. National Bankshares set a $35.00 price objective on Brookfield Infrastructure Partners and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Friday, September 26th. Royal Bank Of Canada set a $40.00 target price on shares of Brookfield Infrastructure Partners and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Wednesday, August 27th. Finally, Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c) rating on shares of Brookfield Infrastructure Partners in a research report on Wednesday. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, four have given a Buy rating and three have assigned a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Brookfield Infrastructure Partners presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $40.43.

Get Brookfield Infrastructure Partners alerts:

View Our Latest Stock Report on Brookfield Infrastructure Partners

Brookfield Infrastructure Partners Stock Performance

The business has a 50-day moving average of $34.28 and a two-hundred day moving average of $32.81. The company has a market cap of $16.72 billion, a P/E ratio of 721.56 and a beta of 1.14. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.66, a current ratio of 0.88 and a quick ratio of 0.85.

Brookfield Infrastructure Partners (NYSE:BIP  Get Free Report) (TSE:BIP.UN) last announced its earnings results on Friday, November 7th. The utilities provider reported $0.44 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.86 by ($0.42). Brookfield Infrastructure Partners had a return on equity of 1.15% and a net margin of 1.54%.The firm had revenue of $5.98 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.05 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $0.76 earnings per share. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 13.4% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, sell-side analysts predict that Brookfield Infrastructure Partners LP will post 3.45 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Brookfield Infrastructure Partners Dividend Announcement

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 31st. Investors of record on Friday, November 28th will be given a dividend of $0.43 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 28th. This represents a $1.72 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 4.8%. Brookfield Infrastructure Partnerss dividend payout ratio is presently 256.72%.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Brookfield Infrastructure Partners

A number of large investors have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Addenda Capital Inc. increased its position in Brookfield Infrastructure Partners by 13.5% during the 2nd quarter. Addenda Capital Inc. now owns 704,591 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $23,604,000 after buying an additional 83,770 shares in the last quarter. Picton Mahoney Asset Management acquired a new stake in Brookfield Infrastructure Partners in the second quarter worth about $46,203,000. Value Partners Investments Inc. grew its stake in shares of Brookfield Infrastructure Partners by 99.5% during the second quarter. Value Partners Investments Inc. now owns 47,294 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $1,581,000 after acquiring an additional 23,582 shares during the last quarter. Aviso Financial Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Brookfield Infrastructure Partners by 30.2% during the second quarter. Aviso Financial Inc. now owns 383,100 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $12,832,000 after acquiring an additional 88,948 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Farther Finance Advisors LLC raised its position in shares of Brookfield Infrastructure Partners by 248.1% in the 2nd quarter. Farther Finance Advisors LLC now owns 7,807 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $262,000 after purchasing an additional 5,564 shares during the last quarter. 57.92% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About Brookfield Infrastructure Partners

(Get Free Report)

Brookfield Infrastructure Partners L.P. owns and operates utilities, transport, midstream, and data businesses in North and South America, Europe, and the Asia Pacific. The company's Utilities segment operates approximately 2,900 km of electricity transmission lines; 4,200 km of natural gas pipelines; 8.1 million electricity and natural gas connections; and 0.6 million long-term contracted sub-metering services.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Brookfield Infrastructure Partners Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Brookfield Infrastructure Partners and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Cardiff Property (LON:CDFF  Get Free Report) announced its earnings results on Thursday. The company reported GBX 132.90 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, Digital Look Earnings reports. Cardiff Property had a net margin of 89.05% and a return on equity of 3.96%.

Cardiff Property Stock Performance

Shares of CDFF stock opened at GBX 2,600 on Friday. The business has a 50-day moving average price of GBX 2,598.70 and a two-hundred day moving average price of GBX 2,596.83. Cardiff Property has a 12-month low of GBX 2,300 and a 12-month high of GBX 2,700. The company has a quick ratio of 6.39, a current ratio of 17.28 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.52. The firm has a market cap of 26.10 million, a P/E ratio of 25.45 and a beta of -0.11.

Get Cardiff Property alerts:

Cardiff Property Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

See Also

The Group, including Campmoss, specialises in property investment and development in the Thames Valley. The total portfolio including the jointly controlled Campmoss investment and development portfolio, valued in excess of 22m, is primarily located to the west of London, close to Heathrow Airport and in Surrey and Berkshire.

Receive News & Ratings for Cardiff Property Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Cardiff Property and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Ceconomy (OTCMKTS:MTTRY  Get Free Report) shares gapped up prior to trading on Friday . The stock had previously closed at $0.93, but opened at $1.00. Ceconomy shares last traded at $1.00, with a volume of 132 shares changing hands.

Ceconomy Stock Performance

The firms fifty day moving average is $0.98 and its 200-day moving average is $0.86. The company has a current ratio of 0.92, a quick ratio of 0.48 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 3.78. The stock has a market capitalization of $2.33 billion, a PE ratio of 13.72 and a beta of 1.33.

Ceconomy Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Ceconomy AG, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the consumer electronics retail business. It operates stores under the MediaMarkt and Saturn brands. The company offers professional assistance for the installation, connection, and troubleshooting of electronic devices at home under the Deutsche Technikberatung brand.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Ceconomy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Ceconomy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Equity Bancshares (NYSE:EQBK  Get Free Report) and CoastalSouth Bancshares (NYSE:COSO  Get Free Report) are both small-cap financial services companies, but which is the superior business? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their risk, institutional ownership, valuation, profitability, earnings, analyst recommendations and dividends.

Analyst Recommendations

This is a summary of current ratings and price targets for Equity Bancshares and CoastalSouth Bancshares, as provided by MarketBeat.

Get Equity Bancshares alerts:

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Equity Bancshares 0 1 0 2 3.33 CoastalSouth Bancshares 1 0 1 0 2.00

Institutional and Insider Ownership

71.8% of Equity Bancshares shares are held by institutional investors. 6.6% of Equity Bancshares shares are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, endowments and large money managers believe a stock is poised for long-term growth.

Profitability

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Equity Bancshares 5.01% 12.13% 1.39% CoastalSouth Bancshares N/A N/A N/A

Earnings & Valuation

This table compares Equity Bancshares and CoastalSouth Bancshares net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

This table compares Equity Bancshares and CoastalSouth Bancsharess gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Equity Bancshares $192.21 million 4.32 $62.62 million $1.20 36.28 CoastalSouth Bancshares N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

Equity Bancshares has higher revenue and earnings than CoastalSouth Bancshares.

Summary

Equity Bancshares beats CoastalSouth Bancshares on 8 of the 9 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Equity Bancshares

(Get Free Report)

Equity Bancshares, Inc. operates as the bank holding company for Equity Bank that provides a range of banking, mortgage banking, and financial services to individual and corporate customers. The company accepts various demand, savings, money market, and time deposits. Its loan products include commercial and industrial, commercial real estate-backed, commercial lines of credit, working capital, term, equipment financing, acquisition, expansion and development, borrowing base, real estate construction, homebuilder, agricultural, government guaranteed, and other loan products to national and regional companies, restaurant franchisees, hoteliers, real estate developers, manufacturing and industrial companies, agribusiness companies, and other businesses. The companys loan products also comprise various consumer loans to individuals and professionals, including residential real estate loans, home equity loans and lines of credit, installment loans, unsecured and secured personal lines of credit, overdraft protection, and letters of credit. It also provides debit cards; online banking solutions, such as access to account balances, online transfers, online bill payment, and electronic delivery of customer statements; mobile banking solutions comprising remote check deposits with mobile bill pay; ATMs; and treasury management, wire transfer, automated clearing house, and stop payment services. In addition, the company offers cash management deposit products, such as lockbox, remote deposit capture, positive pay, reverse positive pay, account reconciliation services, zero balance accounts, and sweep accounts, as well as banking services through telephone, mail, and personal appointments. As of December 31, 2021, it operated a network of 69 branches in Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. The company was founded in 2002 and is headquartered in Wichita, Kansas.

About CoastalSouth Bancshares

(Get Free Report)

CoastalSouth Bancshares, Inc. is a bank holding company headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. Through our wholly owned subsidiary, Coastal States Bank, a South Carolina state-chartered commercial bank, we offer a full range of banking products and services designed for businesses, real estate professionals, and consumers looking for a deep and meaningful relationship with their bank. Today, we have a community banking presence in some of the fastest growing and most business-friendly markets in the U.S., namely the Lowcountry of South Carolina (Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, and Beaufort), nearby Savannah, Georgia, and the Atlanta, Georgia market.  In addition to our traditional community banking operations, we operate four specialty lines of business that provide scalability and diversification:  Senior Housing Lending  focuses on lending to operators across the spectrum of senior care, with an emphasis on assisted living;  Marine Lending  focuses on consumer loans primarily to high-net-worth borrowers secured by yachts and high-end sport fishing vessels;  Government Guaranteed Lending  focuses on origination of small business and other loans guaranteed by the SBA and USDA; and  Mortgage Banker Finance  focuses on mortgage warehouse lending to mortgage originators. By combining the relationship-based focus of a community bank with our specialty lines of business, we believe we can capitalize on the substantial growth opportunities available in our markets, particularly given the scarcity of community banks between $1.5 billion and $5.0 billion in total assets. Our principal executive offices are located in Atlanta, Georgia.

Receive News & Ratings for Equity Bancshares Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Equity Bancshares and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Knife River (NYSE:KNF  Get Free Report) and Owens Corning (NYSE:OC  Get Free Report) are both mid-cap construction companies, but which is the superior stock? We will compare the two companies based on the strength of their earnings, valuation, profitability, risk, analyst recommendations, dividends and institutional ownership.

Profitability

This table compares Knife River and Owens Cornings net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Get Knife River alerts:

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Knife River 4.87% 9.97% 4.41% Owens Corning 2.98% 24.49% 8.85%

Institutional & Insider Ownership

80.1% of Knife River shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 88.4% of Owens Corning shares are owned by institutional investors. 0.3% of Knife River shares are owned by insiders. Comparatively, 0.8% of Owens Corning shares are owned by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that large money managers, endowments and hedge funds believe a company is poised for long-term growth.

Analyst Recommendations

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Knife River 0 1 6 0 2.86 Owens Corning 2 5 10 0 2.47

This is a summary of current recommendations for Knife River and Owens Corning, as reported by MarketBeat.

Knife River currently has a consensus price target of $99.00, indicating a potential upside of 32.28%. Owens Corning has a consensus price target of $157.67, indicating a potential upside of 39.23%. Given Owens Cornings higher possible upside, analysts plainly believe Owens Corning is more favorable than Knife River.

Valuation and Earnings

This table compares Knife River and Owens Cornings top-line revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Knife River $2.90 billion 1.46 $201.68 million $2.61 28.67 Owens Corning $11.66 billion 0.80 $647.00 million ($5.72) -19.80

Owens Corning has higher revenue and earnings than Knife River. Owens Corning is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Knife River, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Volatility & Risk

Knife River has a beta of 0.53, suggesting that its share price is 47% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Owens Corning has a beta of 1.31, suggesting that its share price is 31% more volatile than the S&P 500.

Summary

Owens Corning beats Knife River on 10 of the 14 factors compared between the two stocks.

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.

About Owens Corning

(Get Free Report)

Owens Corning manufactures and sells building and construction materials in the United States, Europe, the Asia Pacific, and internationally. It operates in three segments: Roofing, Insulation, and Composites. The Roofing segment manufactures and sells laminate and strip asphalt roofing shingles, oxidized asphalt materials, and roofing components used in residential and commercial construction, and specialty applications. This segment sells its products through distributors, home centers, and lumberyards, as well as to roofing contractors for built-up roofing asphalt systems; and manufacturers in automotive, chemical, rubber, and construction industries. The Insulation segment manufactures and sells thermal and acoustical batts, loosefill insulation, spray foam insulation, foam sheathing and accessories under the Owens Corning PINK, and FIBERGLAS brands; and glass fiber pipe insulation, energy efficient flexible duct media, bonded and granulated mineral wool insulation, cellular glass insulation, and foam insulation under the FOAMULAR, FOAMGLAS, and Paroc brand names used in construction applications. This segment sells its products primarily to the insulation installers, home centers, lumberyards, retailers, and distributors. The Composites segment manufactures, fabricates, and sells glass reinforcements in the form of fiber; and glass fiber products in the form of fabrics, non-wovens, and composite lumber. Its products are used in building structures, roofing shingles, tubs and showers, pools, decking, flooring, pipes and tanks, poles, electrical equipment, and wind-energy turbine blades. This segment sells its products directly to parts molders, fabricators, and shingle manufacturers. The company was incorporated in 1938 and is headquartered in Toledo, Ohio.

Receive News & Ratings for Knife River Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Knife River and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
SSP Group (OTCMKTS:SSPPF  Get Free Report) and Brinker International (NYSE:EAT  Get Free Report) are both retail/wholesale companies, but which is the better investment? We will compare the two businesses based on the strength of their dividends, risk, valuation, analyst recommendations, earnings, institutional ownership and profitability.

Analyst Ratings

This is a summary of current ratings and recommmendations for SSP Group and Brinker International, as provided by MarketBeat.com.

Get SSP Group alerts:

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score SSP Group 0 2 1 0 2.33 Brinker International 0 9 10 0 2.53

Brinker International has a consensus price target of $167.44, suggesting a potential upside of 9.75%. Given Brinker Internationals stronger consensus rating and higher possible upside, analysts plainly believe Brinker International is more favorable than SSP Group.

Profitability

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets SSP Group N/A N/A N/A Brinker International 7.94% 164.66% 17.30%

Valuation and Earnings

This table compares SSP Group and Brinker Internationals net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

This table compares SSP Group and Brinker Internationals top-line revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio SSP Group $4.35 billion 0.31 $34.75 million N/A N/A Brinker International $5.59 billion 1.21 $383.10 million $9.64 15.83

Brinker International has higher revenue and earnings than SSP Group.

Risk and Volatility

SSP Group has a beta of 0.77, indicating that its stock price is 23% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Brinker International has a beta of 1.38, indicating that its stock price is 38% more volatile than the S&P 500.

Summary

Brinker International beats SSP Group on 10 of the 10 factors compared between the two stocks.

About SSP Group

(Get Free Report)

SSP Group plc operates food and beverage outlets in North America, Europe, the United Kingdom, Ireland, the Asia Pacific, Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and internationally. The company operates outlets at airports, railway stations, motorway service areas, hospitals, and shopping centers. It also operates sandwich shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants. SSP Group plc was founded in 1961 and is headquartered in London, the United Kingdom.

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. The company also operates virtual brands, It's Just Wings. Brinker International, Inc. was founded in 1975 and is headquartered in Dallas, Texas.

Receive News & Ratings for SSP Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for SSP Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Rhumbline Advisers boosted its stake in shares of Conagra Brands (NYSE:CAG  Free Report) by 10.1% during the 2nd quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The firm owned 1,065,093 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 97,397 shares during the quarter. Rhumbline Advisers holdings in Conagra Brands were worth $21,802,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the stock. Campbell & CO Investment Adviser LLC purchased a new stake in Conagra Brands in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $2,489,000. Y Intercept Hong Kong Ltd acquired a new position in shares of Conagra Brands in the 2nd quarter valued at $10,465,000. Triton Financial Group Inc purchased a new stake in Conagra Brands during the second quarter worth $690,000. Bleakley Financial Group LLC purchased a new stake in Conagra Brands during the second quarter worth $356,000. Finally, Zurcher Kantonalbank Zurich Cantonalbank grew its position in Conagra Brands by 6.8% during the first quarter. Zurcher Kantonalbank Zurich Cantonalbank now owns 259,697 shares of the companys stock valued at $6,926,000 after buying an additional 16,546 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 83.75% of the companys stock.

Get Conagra Brands alerts:

Insider Activity at Conagra Brands

In other news, SVP Melissa C. Napier sold 13,011 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, November 4th. The shares were sold at an average price of $17.19, for a total value of $223,659.09. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. 0.57% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of brokerages have weighed in on CAG. The Goldman Sachs Group decreased their price objective on shares of Conagra Brands from $18.00 to $16.00 and set a sell rating for the company in a research report on Monday. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a sell (d+) rating on shares of Conagra Brands in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Evercore ISI lowered their price target on Conagra Brands from $24.00 to $23.00 and set an in-line rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, September 24th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. started coverage on Conagra Brands in a research report on Wednesday, August 20th. They issued a neutral rating and a $20.00 price objective for the company. Finally, Morgan Stanley upped their target price on Conagra Brands from $20.00 to $21.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research note on Wednesday, September 24th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, ten have issued a Hold rating and three have issued a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Reduce and an average target price of $21.50.

View Our Latest Stock Report on Conagra Brands

Conagra Brands Trading Up 0.6%

CAG stock opened at $17.85 on Friday. Conagra Brands has a 12-month low of $16.60 and a 12-month high of $28.69. The businesss 50-day moving average is $18.00 and its 200 day moving average is $19.57. The company has a current ratio of 1.06, a quick ratio of 0.44 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.81. The stock has a market cap of $8.54 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.14, a PEG ratio of 1.65 and a beta of 0.03.

Conagra Brands (NYSE:CAG  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, October 1st. The company reported $0.39 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.33 by $0.06. The business had revenue of $2.63 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.62 billion. Conagra Brands had a return on equity of 11.72% and a net margin of 7.42%.The businesss quarterly revenue was down 5.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $0.53 earnings per share. Conagra Brands has set its FY 2026 guidance at 1.700-1.85 EPS. On average, sell-side analysts anticipate that Conagra Brands will post 2.35 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Conagra Brands Announces Dividend

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, November 26th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, October 30th were paid a dividend of $0.35 per share. This represents a $1.40 annualized dividend and a yield of 7.8%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, October 30th. Conagra Brandss payout ratio is 79.55%.

About Conagra Brands

(Free Report)

Conagra Brands, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, operates as a consumer packaged goods food company primarily in the United States. The company operates through Grocery & Snacks, Refrigerated & Frozen, International, and Foodservice segments. The Grocery & Snacks segment primarily offers shelf stable food products through various retail channels.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CAG? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Conagra Brands (NYSE:CAG  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Conagra Brands Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Conagra Brands and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Crake Asset Management LLP bought a new stake in shares of Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE:LUV  Free Report) during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm bought 1,040,000 shares of the airlines stock, valued at approximately $33,738,000. Southwest Airlines accounts for about 1.8% of Crake Asset Management LLPs investment portfolio, making the stock its 16th largest position. Crake Asset Management LLP owned 0.20% of Southwest Airlines at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Elevation Point Wealth Partners LLC purchased a new position in Southwest Airlines during the second quarter valued at approximately $25,000. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd purchased a new stake in Southwest Airlines during the second quarter worth $31,000. Pandora Wealth Inc. bought a new stake in Southwest Airlines during the 1st quarter valued at $34,000. Hantz Financial Services Inc. boosted its position in Southwest Airlines by 81.4% during the 2nd quarter. Hantz Financial Services Inc. now owns 1,056 shares of the airlines stock valued at $34,000 after acquiring an additional 474 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Cheviot Value Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of Southwest Airlines in the 1st quarter valued at $42,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 80.82% of the companys stock.

Get Southwest Airlines alerts:

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of equities research analysts recently weighed in on LUV shares. Wall Street Zen upgraded Southwest Airlines from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Saturday, October 25th. Jefferies Financial Group boosted their target price on shares of Southwest Airlines from $30.00 to $31.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a report on Wednesday, October 1st. Susquehanna raised their price target on shares of Southwest Airlines from $30.00 to $35.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Friday, October 3rd. TD Cowen lifted their price objective on shares of Southwest Airlines from $21.00 to $24.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Friday, October 3rd. Finally, UBS Group decreased their target price on shares of Southwest Airlines from $35.00 to $33.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Friday, October 24th. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, ten have assigned a Hold rating and four have issued a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $33.80.

Southwest Airlines Stock Performance

LUV opened at $35.07 on Friday. The company has a market cap of $18.13 billion, a P/E ratio of 53.95, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.75 and a beta of 1.23. The company has a quick ratio of 0.42, a current ratio of 0.49 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.52. The firms 50-day moving average price is $32.44 and its 200-day moving average price is $32.51. Southwest Airlines Co. has a 52-week low of $23.82 and a 52-week high of $37.96.

Southwest Airlines (NYSE:LUV  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, February 6th. The airline reported ($0.38) EPS for the quarter. The company had revenue of $6.17 billion during the quarter. Southwest Airlines had a return on equity of 6.39% and a net margin of 1.38%. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that Southwest Airlines Co. will post 1.55 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Southwest Airlines Announces Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, January 16th. Stockholders of record on Friday, December 26th will be issued a dividend of $0.18 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, December 26th. This represents a $0.72 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.1%. Southwest Airliness payout ratio is 110.77%.

About Southwest Airlines

(Free Report)

Southwest Airlines Co operates as a passenger airline company that provides scheduled air transportation services in the United States and near-international markets. As of December 31, 2023, the company operated a total fleet of 817 Boeing 737 aircraft; and served 121 destinations in 42 states, the District of Columbia, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, as well as ten near-international countries, including Mexico, Jamaica, the Bahamas, Aruba, the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, Belize, Cuba, the Cayman Islands, and Turks and Caicos.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding LUV? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE:LUV  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Southwest Airlines Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Southwest Airlines and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Daimler Truck Holding AG  Sponsored ADR (OTCMKTS:DTRUY  Get Free Report) shares gapped down prior to trading on Friday . The stock had previously closed at $21.62, but opened at $21.00. Daimler Truck shares last traded at $21.16, with a volume of 11,445 shares traded.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

DTRUY has been the topic of several analyst reports. Zacks Research cut shares of Daimler Truck from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a research note on Monday, October 13th. Royal Bank Of Canada reiterated an outperform rating on shares of Daimler Truck in a research report on Tuesday, August 5th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and two have given a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold.

Get Daimler Truck alerts:

Read Our Latest Stock Report on DTRUY

Daimler Truck Stock Performance

About Daimler Truck

The firm has a 50-day moving average of $20.61 and a 200-day moving average of $22.19.

(Get Free Report)

Daimler Truck Holding AG manufactures and sells commercial trucks. The company was founded in 2021 and is based in Stuttgart, Germany.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Daimler Truck Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Daimler Truck and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Crake Asset Management LLP lowered its stake in Dell Technologies Inc. (NYSE:DELL  Free Report) by 29.7% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 525,774 shares of the technology companys stock after selling 222,492 shares during the quarter. Dell Technologies makes up about 3.4% of Crake Asset Management LLPs holdings, making the stock its 9th biggest position. Crake Asset Management LLP owned about 0.08% of Dell Technologies worth $64,460,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Other hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Quadrature Capital Ltd purchased a new stake in shares of Dell Technologies in the second quarter valued at $9,531,000. Level Four Advisory Services LLC raised its stake in Dell Technologies by 95.7% in the 2nd quarter. Level Four Advisory Services LLC now owns 7,456 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $914,000 after purchasing an additional 3,647 shares during the last quarter. State Board of Administration of Florida Retirement System raised its stake in Dell Technologies by 5.3% in the 2nd quarter. State Board of Administration of Florida Retirement System now owns 273,662 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $33,551,000 after purchasing an additional 13,797 shares during the last quarter. Johnson Financial Group Inc. lifted its holdings in Dell Technologies by 66.2% in the 2nd quarter. Johnson Financial Group Inc. now owns 251 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $31,000 after purchasing an additional 100 shares in the last quarter. Finally, United Super Pty Ltd in its capacity as Trustee for the Construction & Building Unions Superannuation Fund acquired a new stake in shares of Dell Technologies during the 2nd quarter worth about $650,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 76.37% of the companys stock.

Get Dell Technologies alerts:

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 that occurred on Thursday, September 18th. The shares were sold at an average price of $132.32, for a total transaction of $74,760,800.00. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through 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 transaction of $112,183,364.02. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. Over the last ninety days, insiders have sold 4,537,755 shares of company stock worth $642,644,973. 42.00% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Dell Technologies Stock Up 5.9%

DELL stock opened at $133.33 on Friday. The company has a market cap of $89.65 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.78, a PEG ratio of 1.01 and a beta of 1.02. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $143.66 and a 200-day simple moving average of $130.36. Dell Technologies Inc. has a 52 week low of $66.25 and a 52 week high of $168.08.

Dell Technologies (NYSE:DELL  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, November 25th. The technology company reported $2.59 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.47 by $0.12. The firm had revenue of $27.01 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $27.26 billion. Dell Technologies had a negative return on equity of 234.84% and a net margin of 5.01%.The firms quarterly revenue was up 10.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business earned $2.15 earnings per share. Dell Technologies has set its FY 2026 guidance at 9.920-9.920 EPS. Q4 2026 guidance at 3.500-3.500 EPS. As a group, analysts expect that Dell Technologies Inc. will post 6.93 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Dell Technologies Announces Dividend

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, October 31st. Investors of record on Tuesday, October 21st were issued a $0.525 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, October 21st. This represents a $2.10 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.6%. Dell Technologiess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 30.88%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

DELL has been the subject of a number of analyst reports. Mizuho boosted their price objective on shares of Dell Technologies from $170.00 to $175.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday. Citigroup reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of Dell Technologies in a research note on Wednesday. Daiwa Capital Markets increased their price target on Dell Technologies from $125.00 to $140.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Thursday, September 11th. UBS Group decreased their price objective on Dell Technologies from $186.00 to $167.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday. Finally, Sanford C. Bernstein upped their target price on Dell Technologies from $175.00 to $180.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Sixteen research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, eight have issued a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $161.11.

Read Our Latest Report on DELL

About Dell Technologies

(Free Report)

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).

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Dell Technologies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Dell Technologies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Elevation Point Wealth Partners LLC grew its position in shares of EOG Resources, Inc. (NYSE:EOG  Free Report) by 37.9% during the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 11,202 shares of the energy exploration companys stock after acquiring an additional 3,076 shares during the quarter. Elevation Point Wealth Partners LLCs holdings in EOG Resources were worth $1,340,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. SCP Investment LP bought a new position in shares of EOG Resources during the second quarter valued at about $455,000. Quadrant Capital Group LLC increased its stake in EOG Resources by 27.6% in the 2nd quarter. Quadrant Capital Group LLC now owns 16,324 shares of the energy exploration companys stock valued at $1,953,000 after buying an additional 3,530 shares during the last quarter. Vinva Investment Management Ltd increased its stake in EOG Resources by 57.9% in the 2nd quarter. Vinva Investment Management Ltd now owns 78,102 shares of the energy exploration companys stock valued at $9,435,000 after buying an additional 28,625 shares during the last quarter. Choreo LLC lifted its position in shares of EOG Resources by 41.6% during the 2nd quarter. Choreo LLC now owns 15,388 shares of the energy exploration companys stock worth $1,841,000 after buying an additional 4,522 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Russell Investments Group Ltd. boosted its stake in shares of EOG Resources by 3.8% in the 2nd quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd. now owns 690,328 shares of the energy exploration companys stock worth $82,597,000 after buying an additional 25,078 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 89.91% of the companys stock.

Get EOG Resources alerts:

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several equities analysts have recently issued reports on EOG shares. Mizuho reduced their target price on EOG Resources from $140.00 to $133.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a report on Monday, September 15th. BMO Capital Markets cut their price objective on EOG Resources from $134.00 to $130.00 in a research report on Tuesday, November 11th. Wells Fargo & Company decreased their target price on EOG Resources from $127.00 to $126.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, November 11th. Jefferies Financial Group set a $145.00 target price on EOG Resources in a research note on Sunday, October 12th. Finally, KeyCorp cut their price target on shares of EOG Resources from $140.00 to $138.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, September 3rd. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eleven have given a Buy rating and sixteen have issued a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $140.33.

EOG Resources Price Performance

Shares of NYSE EOG opened at $106.27 on Friday. The company has a current ratio of 1.79, a quick ratio of 1.61 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.12. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $108.90 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $115.24. EOG Resources, Inc. has a 1-year low of $102.52 and a 1-year high of $138.18. The firm has a market cap of $57.66 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.33, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 8.20 and a beta of 0.72.

EOG Resources (NYSE:EOG  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, November 6th. The energy exploration company reported $2.71 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.42 by $0.29. The firm had revenue of $5.85 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $5.48 billion. EOG Resources had a return on equity of 20.51% and a net margin of 25.25%.The businesss revenue for the quarter was down 2.0% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $2.89 EPS. Analysts anticipate that EOG Resources, Inc. will post 11.47 earnings per share for the current year.

EOG Resources Announces Dividend

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, January 30th. Shareholders of record on Friday, January 16th will be given a dividend of $1.02 per share. This represents a $4.08 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.8%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, January 16th. EOG Resourcess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 40.64%.

About EOG Resources

(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.

See Also

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding EOG? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for EOG Resources, Inc. (NYSE:EOG  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for EOG Resources Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for EOG Resources and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Employees Retirement System of Texas acquired a new stake in shares of Vistra Corp. (NYSE:VST  Free Report) during the second quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The institutional investor acquired 2,791 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $541,000.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Nuveen LLC purchased a new position in Vistra in the 1st quarter valued at about $209,149,000. Assenagon Asset Management S.A. raised its position in shares of Vistra by 2,341.6% in the second quarter. Assenagon Asset Management S.A. now owns 865,562 shares of the companys stock valued at $167,755,000 after buying an additional 830,111 shares during the last quarter. National Pension Service raised its position in shares of Vistra by 81.6% in the second quarter. National Pension Service now owns 1,125,100 shares of the companys stock valued at $218,056,000 after buying an additional 505,495 shares during the last quarter. Fred Alger Management LLC lifted its stake in shares of Vistra by 102.5% during the first quarter. Fred Alger Management LLC now owns 973,339 shares of the companys stock valued at $114,309,000 after buying an additional 492,765 shares during the period. Finally, 140 Summer Partners LP acquired a new stake in Vistra during the first quarter worth approximately $56,876,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 90.88% of the companys stock.

Get Vistra alerts:

Vistra Stock Up 3.7%

Shares of NYSE VST opened at $177.14 on Friday. The stock has a market capitalization of $60.02 billion, a PE ratio of 63.95, a P/E/G ratio of 3.04 and a beta of 1.30. The company has a quick ratio of 0.88, a current ratio of 0.99 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 5.74. The firm has a fifty day moving average of $192.56 and a 200-day moving average of $188.55. Vistra Corp. has a 52-week low of $90.51 and a 52-week high of $219.82.

Vistra Increases Dividend

Vistra ( NYSE:VST Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Friday, November 7th. The company reported $1.75 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.78 by ($0.03). Vistra had a return on equity of 64.04% and a net margin of 6.70%.The firm had revenue of $4.97 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $6.60 billion. On average, analysts anticipate that Vistra Corp. will post 7 EPS for the current year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 31st. Stockholders of record on Monday, December 22nd will be paid a $0.227 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, December 22nd. This represents a $0.91 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.5%. This is an increase from Vistras previous quarterly dividend of $0.23. Vistras dividend payout ratio is presently 32.49%.

Insider Transactions at Vistra

In other Vistra news, EVP Stephanie Zapata Moore sold 8,219 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, November 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $173.35, for a total transaction of $1,424,763.65. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president directly owned 79,854 shares in the company, valued at $13,842,690.90. The trade was a 9.33% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, EVP Carrie Lee Kirby sold 58,275 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, November 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $174.75, for a total transaction of $10,183,556.25. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president directly owned 218,239 shares of the companys stock, valued at $38,137,265.25. The trade was a 21.07% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. Insiders have sold a total of 868,339 shares of company stock worth $173,242,584 over the last 90 days. Company insiders own 1.42% of the companys stock.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several research analysts have weighed in on VST shares. Wall Street Zen downgraded Vistra from a hold rating to a sell rating in a report on Friday, September 5th. Morgan Stanley restated an overweight rating and set a $225.00 price objective on shares of Vistra in a report on Thursday, November 20th. TD Cowen began coverage on Vistra in a research note on Thursday, October 16th. They issued a buy rating and a $250.00 target price for the company. KeyCorp assumed coverage on Vistra in a research report on Monday. They set an overweight rating and a $217.00 target price on the stock. Finally, Daiwa Capital Markets raised Vistra from a neutral rating to a buy rating and set a $250.00 price target on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, September 17th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, twelve have assigned a Buy rating and three have assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Buy and a consensus price target of $233.20.

Read Our Latest Stock Report on VST

Vistra Profile

(Free Report)

Vistra Corp., together with its subsidiaries, operates as an integrated retail electricity and power generation company. The company operates through six segments: Retail, Texas, East, West, Sunset, and Asset Closure. It retails electricity and natural gas to residential, commercial, and industrial customers across states in the United States and the District of Columbia.

Read More

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding VST? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Vistra Corp. (NYSE:VST  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Vistra Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Vistra and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of Encompass Health Corporation (NYSE:EHC  Get Free Report) have earned a consensus recommendation of Buy from the eleven ratings firms that are covering the firm, MarketBeat.com reports. One analyst has rated the stock with a hold recommendation, eight have given a buy recommendation and two have issued a strong buy recommendation on the company. The average twelve-month price objective among brokerages that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $142.8571.

A number of equities research analysts recently issued reports on the stock. Barclays increased their target price on shares of Encompass Health from $141.00 to $150.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Thursday, October 30th. Bank of America lifted their target price on shares of Encompass Health from $145.00 to $160.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, September 10th. Wall Street Zen raised Encompass Health from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Sunday, November 23rd. Truist Financial raised their price target on Encompass Health from $135.00 to $140.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Thursday, August 14th. Finally, Raymond James Financial raised Encompass Health to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Friday, October 31st.

Get Encompass Health alerts:

Read Our Latest Research Report on EHC

Encompass Health Trading Up 0.1%

Shares of EHC opened at $116.36 on Friday. The company has a current ratio of 1.06, a quick ratio of 1.06 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.76. The stock has a market cap of $11.71 billion, a PE ratio of 22.00, a PEG ratio of 2.20 and a beta of 0.91. Encompass Health has a 1 year low of $87.85 and a 1 year high of $127.99. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $120.62 and a 200-day simple moving average of $119.51.

Encompass Health (NYSE:EHC  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, March 16th. The company reported $0.93 earnings per share for the quarter. The firm had revenue of $136.30 million for the quarter. Encompass Health had a return on equity of 18.19% and a net margin of 9.33%. Encompass Health has set its FY22 guidance at $3.83-$4.19 EPS. On average, sell-side analysts predict that Encompass Health will post 4.8 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Encompass Health Dividend Announcement

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, January 15th. Investors of record on Friday, January 2nd will be given a dividend of $0.19 per share. The ex-dividend date is Friday, January 2nd. This represents a $0.76 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.7%. Encompass Healths dividend payout ratio is 14.37%.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Encompass Health

A number of institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of EHC. IFP Advisors Inc grew its stake in shares of Encompass Health by 5.9% during the first quarter. IFP Advisors Inc now owns 2,814 shares of the companys stock valued at $285,000 after purchasing an additional 158 shares during the last quarter. Allianz Asset Management GmbH boosted its position in Encompass Health by 42.4% in the 1st quarter. Allianz Asset Management GmbH now owns 396,649 shares of the companys stock valued at $40,173,000 after buying an additional 118,056 shares during the last quarter. Y Intercept Hong Kong Ltd acquired a new stake in shares of Encompass Health in the 1st quarter valued at $505,000. Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH bought a new stake in shares of Encompass Health during the first quarter worth $12,165,000. Finally, KLP Kapitalforvaltning AS lifted its stake in shares of Encompass Health by 2.0% during the first quarter. KLP Kapitalforvaltning AS now owns 20,900 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,117,000 after acquiring an additional 400 shares during the period. 97.25% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Encompass Health Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Encompass Health Corporation provides post-acute healthcare services in the United States and Puerto Rico. It owns and operates inpatient rehabilitation hospitals that provide medical, nursing, therapy, and ancillary services. The company provides specialized rehabilitative treatment on an inpatient basis to patients who have experienced physical or cognitive disabilities or injuries due to medical conditions, such as strokes, hip fractures, and various debilitating neurological conditions.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for Encompass Health Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Encompass Health and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Erste Group Bank AG (OTCMKTS:EBKDY  Get Free Report)s stock price reached a new 52-week high during trading on Friday . The company traded as high as $54.7133 and last traded at $54.49, with a volume of 36654 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at $53.80.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

EBKDY has been the subject of several research analyst reports. Zacks Research upgraded Erste Group Bank to a hold rating in a research report on Monday, August 11th. Morgan Stanley reaffirmed an overweight rating on shares of Erste Group Bank in a research report on Monday. Oddo Bhf cut shares of Erste Group Bank to a neutral rating in a research report on Thursday, November 6th. Cfra Research upgraded shares of Erste Group Bank to a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, August 5th. Finally, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft restated a buy rating on shares of Erste Group Bank in a research note on Wednesday, November 5th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, two have issued a Buy rating and four have assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy.

Get Erste Group Bank alerts:

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on Erste Group Bank

Erste Group Bank Stock Up 1.1%

The stock has a market cap of $44.65 billion, a PE ratio of 13.43, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.83 and a beta of 1.08. The firm has a fifty day moving average of $50.42 and a 200 day moving average of $46.61.

Erste Group Bank (OTCMKTS:EBKDY  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Friday, October 31st. The financial services provider reported $1.29 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.10 by $0.19. Erste Group Bank had a return on equity of 10.08% and a net margin of 16.96%.The business had revenue of $3.38 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.30 billion. On average, equities research analysts forecast that Erste Group Bank AG will post 4.05 EPS for the current fiscal 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.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Erste Group Bank Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Erste Group Bank and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of Eurofins Scient (OTCMKTS:ERFSF  Get Free Report) saw an uptick in trading volume on Wednesday . 1,067 shares traded hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 26% from the previous sessions volume of 1,437 shares.The stock last traded at $67.00 and had previously closed at $68.8240.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

ERFSF has been the subject of a number of analyst reports. Citigroup reaffirmed a neutral rating on shares of Eurofins Scient in a research report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft restated a hold rating on shares of Eurofins Scient in a research note on Wednesday, October 29th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating and six have given a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold.

Get Eurofins Scient alerts:

Read Our Latest Report on Eurofins Scient

Eurofins Scient Stock Performance

About Eurofins Scient

The company has a quick ratio of 1.19, a current ratio of 1.26 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.77. The businesss fifty day simple moving average is $71.23 and its 200-day simple moving average is $71.92.

(Get Free Report)

Eurofins Scientific SE, together with its subsidiaries, provides various analytical testing and laboratory services worldwide. The company offers a portfolio of various analytical methods and tests to evaluate the safety, identity, composition, authenticity, origin, traceability, and purity of various products.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Eurofins Scient Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Eurofins Scient and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
F m Investments LLC increased its stake in shares of Dynatrace, Inc. (NYSE:DT  Free Report) by 1.5% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 108,531 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 1,560 shares during the period. F m Investments LLCs holdings in Dynatrace were worth $5,992,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Avantax Advisory Services Inc. raised its position in Dynatrace by 13.1% in the 1st quarter. Avantax Advisory Services Inc. now owns 16,270 shares of the companys stock worth $767,000 after purchasing an additional 1,888 shares during the last quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers raised its position in shares of Dynatrace by 4.6% during the 1st quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 55,281 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,606,000 after acquiring an additional 2,412 shares during the last quarter. TD Asset Management Inc raised its position in shares of Dynatrace by 1.6% during the 1st quarter. TD Asset Management Inc now owns 25,939 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,223,000 after acquiring an additional 417 shares during the last quarter. LPL Financial LLC lifted its stake in shares of Dynatrace by 9.1% in the 1st quarter. LPL Financial LLC now owns 222,688 shares of the companys stock valued at $10,268,000 after purchasing an additional 18,600 shares during the period. Finally, Mackenzie Financial Corp bought a new position in shares of Dynatrace in the 1st quarter worth $391,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 94.28% of the companys stock.

Get Dynatrace alerts:

Insider Buying and Selling at Dynatrace

In related news, CEO Rick M. Mcconnell sold 30,000 shares of Dynatrace stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, November 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $46.61, for a total value of $1,398,300.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer owned 108,125 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $5,039,706.25. The trade was a 21.72% 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, EVP Dan Zugelder sold 7,503 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, October 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of $50.00, for a total value of $375,150.00. Following the transaction, the executive vice president directly owned 1,420 shares of the companys stock, valued at $71,000. This trade represents a 84.09% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. Over the last 90 days, insiders sold 42,602 shares of company stock valued at $2,021,259. Corporate insiders own 0.57% of the companys stock.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of equities analysts have issued reports on the company. Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c) rating on shares of Dynatrace in a report on Monday. BMO Capital Markets decreased their price objective on shares of Dynatrace from $63.00 to $62.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Thursday, August 7th. Scotiabank cut their target price on shares of Dynatrace from $67.00 to $60.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, November 6th. Rosenblatt Securities reissued a buy rating and issued a $67.00 price target on shares of Dynatrace in a report on Thursday, November 6th. Finally, Wall Street Zen downgraded Dynatrace from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, October 3rd. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, seventeen have given a Buy rating and six have given a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Dynatrace currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $61.59.

View Our Latest Research Report on DT

Dynatrace Stock Down 0.9%

Shares of NYSE:DT opened at $44.21 on Friday. Dynatrace, Inc. has a 12 month low of $39.30 and a 12 month high of $63.00. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $47.86 and its 200 day simple moving average is $50.67. The firm has a market cap of $13.33 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 26.47, a PEG ratio of 3.51 and a beta of 0.85.

Dynatrace (NYSE:DT  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, November 5th. The company reported $0.44 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates 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 for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $487.33 million. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $0.37 EPS. Dynatraces revenue for the quarter 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. Research analysts expect that Dynatrace, Inc. will post 0.68 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Dynatrace Profile

(Free Report)

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.

Recommended Stories

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding DT? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Dynatrace, Inc. (NYSE:DT  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Dynatrace Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Dynatrace and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Financial Advocates Investment Management raised its holdings in Huntington Ingalls Industries, Inc. (NYSE:HII  Free Report) by 48.0% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 1,781 shares of the aerospace companys stock after acquiring an additional 578 shares during the quarter. Financial Advocates Investment Managements holdings in Huntington Ingalls Industries were worth $430,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of HII. AE Wealth Management LLC bought a new position in Huntington Ingalls Industries during the 1st quarter worth $311,000. Avantax Advisory Services Inc. increased its stake in shares of Huntington Ingalls Industries by 6.3% in the first quarter. Avantax Advisory Services Inc. now owns 8,364 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $1,707,000 after buying an additional 499 shares during the period. Cetera Investment Advisers boosted its holdings in Huntington Ingalls Industries by 18.3% in the first quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 38,117 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $7,777,000 after acquiring an additional 5,888 shares during the last quarter. Assetmark Inc. lifted its position in shares of Huntington Ingalls Industries by 40.0% in the 1st quarter. Assetmark Inc. now owns 10,921 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $2,228,000 after purchasing an additional 3,119 shares during the period. Finally, LPL Financial LLC boosted its stake in shares of Huntington Ingalls Industries by 63.9% in the 1st quarter. LPL Financial LLC now owns 193,759 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $39,535,000 after purchasing an additional 75,576 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 90.46% of the companys stock.

Get Huntington Ingalls Industries alerts:

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

HII has been the subject of a number of analyst reports. TD Cowen lifted their target price on shares of Huntington Ingalls Industries from $320.00 to $350.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Friday, October 31st. Zacks Research downgraded Huntington Ingalls Industries from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Thursday, August 14th. Sanford C. Bernstein reaffirmed a market perform rating and set a $362.00 target price on shares of Huntington Ingalls Industries in a research note on Friday, November 7th. The Goldman Sachs Group boosted their price target on Huntington Ingalls Industries from $316.00 to $356.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Friday, October 31st. Finally, Bank of America lifted their price objective on shares of Huntington Ingalls Industries from $180.00 to $260.00 and gave the company an underperform rating in a research note on Wednesday, August 13th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, five have assigned a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $318.57.

Huntington Ingalls Industries Trading Down 0.0%

Shares of Huntington Ingalls Industries stock opened at $314.64 on Friday. The stock has a market capitalization of $12.35 billion, a PE ratio of 23.55, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.71 and a beta of 0.40. Huntington Ingalls Industries, Inc. has a 52 week low of $158.88 and a 52 week high of $330.00. The stock has a 50 day moving average price of $297.08 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $267.01. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.55, a quick ratio of 1.00 and a current ratio of 1.08.

Huntington Ingalls Industries (NYSE:HII  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The aerospace company reported $3.68 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates 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 for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.95 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $2.56 earnings per share. Huntington Ingalls Industriess revenue for the quarter was up 16.1% on a year-over-year basis. Huntington Ingalls Industries has set its FY 2025 guidance at EPS. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that Huntington Ingalls Industries, Inc. will post 13.99 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Huntington Ingalls Industries Increases Dividend

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 12th. Shareholders of record on Friday, November 28th will be paid a $1.38 dividend. This represents a $5.52 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.8%. This is a positive change from Huntington Ingalls Industriess previous quarterly dividend of $1.35. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 28th. Huntington Ingalls Industriess payout ratio is 38.12%.

Insider Activity

In other news, CAO Nicolas G. Schuck sold 466 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, November 4th. The shares were sold at an average price of $314.36, for a total transaction of $146,491.76. Following the completion of the sale, the chief accounting officer directly owned 2,418 shares of the companys stock, valued at $760,122.48. The trade was a 16.16% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this link. Also, CEO Christopher D. Kastner sold 15,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, November 12th. The stock was sold at an average price of $321.06, for a total transaction of $4,815,900.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer owned 68,139 shares in the company, valued at $21,876,707.34. This represents a 18.04% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. Insiders sold 16,316 shares of company stock worth $5,230,516 over the last three months. 0.72% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

About Huntington Ingalls Industries

(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.

Recommended Stories

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding HII? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Huntington Ingalls Industries, Inc. (NYSE:HII  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Huntington Ingalls Industries Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Huntington Ingalls Industries and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Franklin Resources Inc. lifted its holdings in Tri Pointe Homes Inc. (NYSE:TPH  Free Report) by 4.2% in the 2nd quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The firm owned 764,832 shares of the construction companys stock after acquiring an additional 31,094 shares during the quarter. Franklin Resources Inc.s holdings in Tri Pointe Homes were worth $24,436,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently modified their holdings of TPH. Legal & General Group Plc raised its stake in Tri Pointe Homes by 1.9% in the second quarter. Legal & General Group Plc now owns 265,762 shares of the construction companys stock worth $8,491,000 after buying an additional 5,066 shares in the last quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased its holdings in shares of Tri Pointe Homes by 37.5% in the 2nd quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 877,599 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $28,039,000 after acquiring an additional 239,238 shares during the period. Dynamic Technology Lab Private Ltd boosted its position in Tri Pointe Homes by 49.5% during the second quarter. Dynamic Technology Lab Private Ltd now owns 41,131 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $1,314,000 after purchasing an additional 13,610 shares in the last quarter. Factorial Partners LLC grew its stake in Tri Pointe Homes by 2.3% in the second quarter. Factorial Partners LLC now owns 89,000 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $2,844,000 after purchasing an additional 2,000 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Creative Planning grew its stake in Tri Pointe Homes by 18.0% in the second quarter. Creative Planning now owns 42,465 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $1,357,000 after purchasing an additional 6,491 shares during the last quarter. 97.01% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

Get Tri Pointe Homes alerts:

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several research firms recently commented on TPH. Evercore ISI reiterated an in-line rating and set a $34.00 price objective (down previously from $38.00) on shares of Tri Pointe Homes in a research note on Tuesday, October 7th. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c) rating on shares of Tri Pointe Homes in a report on Thursday, October 30th. Finally, Wall Street Zen upgraded Tri Pointe Homes from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, August 30th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, two have given a Buy rating and four have issued a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $39.25.

Tri Pointe Homes Trading Up 1.2%

Shares of Tri Pointe Homes stock opened at $34.25 on Friday. Tri Pointe Homes Inc. has a 12-month low of $27.90 and a 12-month high of $44.52. The firms 50 day simple moving average is $32.51 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $32.71. The company has a current ratio of 2.01, a quick ratio of 2.01 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.34. The firm has a market capitalization of $2.94 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.10, a PEG ratio of 0.83 and a beta of 1.28.

Tri Pointe Homes (NYSE:TPH  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 23rd. The construction company reported $0.71 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.51 by $0.20. Tri Pointe Homes had a net margin of 8.44% and a return on equity of 9.79%. The firm had revenue of $836.87 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $782.22 million. During the same period in the previous year, the company earned $1.18 earnings per share. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 26.6% compared to the same quarter last year. Analysts predict that Tri Pointe Homes Inc. will post 3.58 EPS for the current year.

About Tri Pointe Homes

(Free Report)

Tri Pointe Homes, Inc engages in the design, construction, and sale of single-family attached and detached homes in the United States. The company operates through a portfolio of six regional home building brands comprising Maracay in Arizona; Pardee Homes in California and Nevada; Quadrant Homes in Washington; Trendmaker Homes in Texas; TRI Pointe Homes in California, Colorado, and the Carolinas; and Winchester Homes in Maryland and Northern Virginia.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding TPH? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Tri Pointe Homes Inc. (NYSE:TPH  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Tri Pointe Homes Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Tri Pointe Homes and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Fresnillo PLC (OTCMKTS:FNLPF  Get Free Report) shares hit a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Friday . The stock traded as high as $36.36 and last traded at $34.32, with a volume of 4150 shares. The stock had previously closed at $32.5995.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of research firms recently weighed in on FNLPF. Hsbc Global Res raised shares of Fresnillo from a moderate sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Monday, October 13th. Royal Bank Of Canada reissued a sector perform rating on shares of Fresnillo in a research note on Monday, August 11th. Morgan Stanley restated an underweight rating on shares of Fresnillo in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. HSBC raised shares of Fresnillo to a hold rating in a report on Monday, October 13th. Finally, Zacks Research upgraded Fresnillo from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Friday, September 19th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, one has issued a Buy rating, five have issued a Hold rating and two have assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Fresnillo currently has a consensus rating of Hold.

Get Fresnillo alerts:

Get Our Latest Analysis on FNLPF

Fresnillo Stock Up 7.4%

About Fresnillo

The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $31.06 and a 200-day simple moving average of $24.28. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.20, a quick ratio of 4.34 and a current ratio of 5.09.

(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.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for Fresnillo Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Fresnillo and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Global Retirement Partners LLC bought a new position in shares of Aflac Incorporated (NYSE:AFL  Free Report) in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor bought 9,827 shares of the financial services providers stock, valued at approximately $1,036,000.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently modified their holdings of the business. Brighton Jones LLC grew its stake in Aflac by 64.4% during the 4th quarter. Brighton Jones LLC now owns 14,570 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,507,000 after acquiring an additional 5,708 shares in the last quarter. Bison Wealth LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Aflac by 4.3% during the 4th quarter. Bison Wealth LLC now owns 4,402 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $455,000 after purchasing an additional 183 shares during the last quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp grew its position in shares of Aflac by 7.5% in the first quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp now owns 74,764 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $8,313,000 after purchasing an additional 5,203 shares in the last quarter. Foundations Investment Advisors LLC grew its position in shares of Aflac by 31.4% in the first quarter. Foundations Investment Advisors LLC now owns 7,880 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $876,000 after purchasing an additional 1,885 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Meeder Asset Management Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Aflac by 90.8% in the first quarter. Meeder Asset Management Inc. now owns 330 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $37,000 after purchasing an additional 157 shares during the last quarter. 67.44% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Get Aflac alerts:

Aflac Price Performance

Aflac stock opened at $110.66 on Friday. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $110.26 and its 200-day simple moving average is $106.23. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.33, a quick ratio of 0.11 and a current ratio of 0.11. Aflac Incorporated has a 1 year low of $96.95 and a 1 year high of $115.83. The company has a market capitalization of $58.00 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 25.09, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.93 and a beta of 0.83.

Aflac ( NYSE:AFL Get Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Monday, February 27th. The financial services provider reported $1.07 earnings per share for the quarter. The firm 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%. As a group, equities research analysts expect that Aflac Incorporated will post 6.88 earnings per share for the current year.

Aflac announced that its board has initiated a share buyback program on Tuesday, August 12th that allows the company to buyback 100,000,000 outstanding shares. This buyback authorization allows the financial services provider to purchase shares of its stock through open market purchases. Stock buyback programs are often an indication that the companys leadership believes its shares are undervalued.

Aflac Increases Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, March 2nd. Investors of record on Wednesday, February 18th will be issued a $0.61 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, February 18th. This represents a $2.44 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.2%. This is a boost from Aflacs previous quarterly dividend of $0.58. Aflacs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 31.85%.

Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, Director Joseph L. Moskowitz sold 1,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, November 7th. The stock was sold at an average price of $114.00, for a total transaction of $114,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director directly owned 23,615 shares in the company, valued at $2,692,110. This trade represents a 4.06% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this link. Also, EVP Audrey B. Tillman sold 15,862 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, November 18th. The stock was sold at an average price of $112.00, for a total transaction of $1,776,544.00. Following the sale, the executive vice president owned 230,688 shares in the company, valued at $25,837,056. This trade represents a 6.43% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. In the last 90 days, insiders have sold 22,822 shares of company stock valued at $2,571,002. Corporate insiders own 0.90% of the companys stock.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

AFL has been the topic of a number of recent research reports. Wall Street Zen raised Aflac from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Saturday, August 9th. UBS Group reduced their price target on Aflac from $114.00 to $111.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, August 6th. Piper Sandler set a $125.00 price objective on shares of Aflac and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Tuesday, October 7th. Evercore ISI raised their price objective on shares of Aflac from $110.00 to $111.00 and gave the stock an underperform rating in a research report on Friday, November 7th. Finally, Morgan Stanley boosted their target price on shares of Aflac from $113.00 to $118.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Monday, November 17th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, six have issued a Hold rating and two have issued a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $111.00.

View Our Latest Report on AFL

Aflac 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.

Featured Stories

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding AFL? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Aflac Incorporated (NYSE:AFL  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Aflac Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Aflac and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
GM Advisory Group LLC purchased a new position in shares of Emerson Electric Co. (NYSE:EMR  Free Report) during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund purchased 2,760 shares of the industrial products companys stock, valued at approximately $368,000.

Several other large investors also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Emerson Electric by 1.3% in the second quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 54,129,898 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $7,217,139,000 after purchasing an additional 695,105 shares during the period. Wellington Management Group LLP lifted its holdings in Emerson Electric by 6.9% in the 1st quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 15,280,950 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $1,675,403,000 after buying an additional 980,652 shares in the last quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted its position in Emerson Electric by 75.0% in the 2nd quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 12,538,402 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $1,671,762,000 after buying an additional 5,371,585 shares during the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC grew its stake in shares of Emerson Electric by 0.7% during the second quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 12,143,357 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $1,610,958,000 after acquiring an additional 89,192 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Nordea Investment Management AB increased its position in shares of Emerson Electric by 19.5% during the second quarter. Nordea Investment Management AB now owns 9,195,005 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $1,223,947,000 after acquiring an additional 1,499,000 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 74.30% of the companys stock.

Get Emerson Electric alerts:

Emerson Electric Stock Performance

EMR stock opened at $131.54 on Friday. The firm has a market cap of $73.90 billion, a P/E ratio of 28.29, a P/E/G ratio of 2.36 and a beta of 1.30. The stocks 50 day simple moving average is $131.32 and its 200 day simple moving average is $131.74. The company has a current ratio of 0.85, a quick ratio of 0.63 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.42. Emerson Electric Co. has a 12-month low of $90.06 and a 12-month high of $150.27.

Emerson Electric Increases Dividend

Emerson Electric ( NYSE:EMR Get Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Thursday, April 6th. The industrial products company reported $0.79 earnings per share for the quarter. Emerson Electric had a net margin of 14.92% and a return on equity of 14.34%. The firm had revenue of $3.16 billion during the quarter. As a group, equities research analysts predict that Emerson Electric Co. will post 5.96 EPS for the current year.

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 issued a $0.555 dividend. This is an increase from Emerson Electrics previous quarterly dividend of $0.53. This represents a $2.22 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.7%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 14th. Emerson Electrics dividend payout ratio is 54.95%.

Emerson Electric declared that its board has approved a stock buyback plan on Wednesday, November 5th that authorizes the company to buyback $0.00 in shares. This buyback authorization authorizes the industrial products company to purchase shares of its stock through open market purchases. Shares buyback plans are usually a sign that the companys management believes its shares are undervalued.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of research analysts recently commented on EMR shares. Barclays increased their price target on Emerson Electric from $127.00 to $135.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Thursday, November 6th. Wells Fargo & Company reiterated an equal weight rating and set a $140.00 target price (down from $150.00) on shares of Emerson Electric in a research note on Monday, October 6th. Weiss Ratings restated a buy (b-) rating on shares of Emerson Electric in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Wolfe Research increased their price objective on shares of Emerson Electric from $165.00 to $168.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, November 21st. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada dropped their target price on shares of Emerson Electric from $155.00 to $153.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, November 6th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, ten have given a Buy rating, five have given a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $148.13.

View Our Latest Report on EMR

Emerson Electric Profile

(Free Report)

Emerson Electric Co, a technology and software company, provides various solutions for customers in industrial, commercial, and consumer markets in the Americas, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. It operates in six segments: Final Control, Control Systems & Software, Measurement & Analytical, AspenTech, Discrete Automation, and Safety & Productivity.

See Also

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding EMR? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Emerson Electric Co. (NYSE:EMR  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Emerson Electric Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Emerson Electric and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
GM Advisory Group LLC bought a new position in shares of Novartis AG (NYSE:NVS  Free Report) during the 2nd quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The fund bought 2,493 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $302,000.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the stock. WPG Advisers LLC purchased a new position in Novartis during the first quarter worth approximately $25,000. GFG Capital LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Novartis in the 2nd quarter worth $26,000. Legacy Investment Solutions LLC purchased a new position in shares of Novartis during the 2nd quarter worth $30,000. Barrett & Company Inc. acquired a new position in shares of Novartis during the 2nd quarter valued at about $31,000. Finally, MCF Advisors LLC boosted its position in shares of Novartis by 66.0% during the 2nd quarter. MCF Advisors LLC now owns 264 shares of the companys stock valued at $32,000 after acquiring an additional 105 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 13.12% of the companys stock.

Get Novartis alerts:

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of equities analysts have commented on the stock. Morgan Stanley raised shares of Novartis from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating in a research note on Friday, October 31st. Bank of America upgraded shares of Novartis from a neutral rating to a buy rating in a report on Tuesday. 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 note on Wednesday, October 29th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group restated a hold rating on shares of Novartis in a research report on Monday, October 27th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, four have given a Buy rating, six have issued a Hold rating and three have assigned a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $122.33.

Novartis Stock Up 0.1%

Shares of NYSE NVS opened at $130.44 on Friday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.62, a current ratio of 0.88 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.50. The businesss 50 day moving average is $128.17 and its two-hundred day moving average is $122.36. Novartis AG has a 52-week low of $96.06 and a 52-week high of $134.00. The firm has a market cap of $275.54 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.82, a PEG ratio of 1.93 and a beta of 0.60.

Novartis (NYSE:NVS  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, October 28th. The company reported $2.25 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $2.26 by ($0.01). Novartis had a return on equity of 41.21% and a net margin of 26.49%.The firm had revenue of $14.36 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $13.70 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $2.06 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was up 8.5% on a year-over-year basis. Research analysts predict that Novartis AG will post 8.45 EPS for the current year.

Novartis Company Profile

(Free Report)

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.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding NVS? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Novartis AG (NYSE:NVS  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Novartis Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Novartis and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Halma (OTCMKTS:HLMAF  Get Free Report) shares dropped 3.5% during mid-day trading on Friday . The stock traded as low as $46.74 and last traded at $46.74. Approximately 691 shares were traded during trading, a decline of 95% from the average daily volume of 14,029 shares. The stock had previously closed at $48.43.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several equities research analysts have commented on HLMAF shares. Barclays restated an overweight rating on shares of Halma in a research note on Friday, September 26th. UBS Group restated a buy rating on shares of Halma in a research report on Thursday, September 25th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft reiterated a hold rating on shares of Halma in a research report on Monday, October 6th. Zacks Research lowered Halma from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Monday, August 18th. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group raised shares of Halma to a strong-buy rating in a report on Wednesday, August 6th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, two have issued a Buy rating, four have given a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy.

Get Halma alerts:

Read Our Latest Stock Report on HLMAF

Halma Stock Down 3.6%

About Halma

The company has a fifty day moving average price of $46.36 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $44.07. The company has a quick ratio of 1.78, a current ratio of 2.44 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.37.

(Get Free Report)

Halma plc, together its subsidiaries, provides technology solutions in the safety, health, and environmental markets in the United States, Mainland Europe, the United Kingdom, the Asia Pacific, Africa, the Middle East, and internationally. It operates through three segments: Safety, Environmental & Analysis, and Medical.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Halma Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Halma and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Inceptionr LLC bought a new stake in shares of Everest Group, Ltd. (NYSE:EG  Free Report) in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm bought 1,596 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $542,000.

A number of other hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in EG. SVB Wealth LLC bought a new position in Everest Group during the first quarter valued at about $30,000. Zions Bancorporation National Association UT bought a new position in shares of Everest Group during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $34,000. Board of the Pension Protection Fund purchased a new stake in shares of Everest Group during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $34,000. WPG Advisers LLC bought a new stake in shares of Everest Group in the 1st quarter worth approximately $37,000. Finally, Allworth Financial LP lifted its stake in Everest Group by 96.8% in the second quarter. Allworth Financial LP now owns 183 shares of the companys stock valued at $62,000 after purchasing an additional 90 shares during the last quarter. 92.64% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

Get Everest Group alerts:

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of analysts have issued reports on the company. Wolfe Research raised Everest Group from an underperform rating to a peer perform rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 29th. Wells Fargo & Company lowered their price objective on Everest Group from $383.00 to $343.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, October 29th. Cantor Fitzgerald raised shares of Everest Group to a hold rating in a report on Wednesday, August 13th. Barclays reduced their target price on shares of Everest Group from $425.00 to $365.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Friday, October 31st. Finally, Wall Street Zen cut shares of Everest Group from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Sunday, November 2nd. Five equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and ten have assigned a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $368.77.

Everest Group Trading Down 0.6%

Shares of Everest Group stock opened at $312.17 on Friday. The companys 50-day moving average price is $334.30 and its 200-day moving average price is $337.08. 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, Ltd. has a 12-month low of $302.44 and a 12-month high of $392.11. The company has a market cap of $13.10 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 23.78, a PEG ratio of 0.25 and a beta of 0.47.

Everest Group (NYSE:EG  Get Free Report) last posted its 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 return on equity of 3.81% and a net margin of 3.12%.The firm had revenue of $4.32 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $3.86 billion. During the same period last year, the company posted $11.80 EPS. The businesss revenue was up .8% on a year-over-year basis. On average, equities analysts expect that Everest Group, Ltd. will post 47.93 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Everest Group Announces Dividend

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 12th. Investors of record on Wednesday, November 26th will be given a $2.00 dividend. This represents a $8.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.6%. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, November 26th. Everest Groups dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 60.93%.

Insider Buying and Selling at Everest Group

In other Everest Group news, Director William F. Galtney, Jr. bought 11,385 shares of Everest Group stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, October 29th. The stock was acquired at an average cost of $307.38 per share, for a total transaction of $3,499,521.30. Following the completion of the transaction, the director directly owned 45,491 shares in the company, valued at $13,983,023.58. This represents a 33.38% increase in their ownership of the stock. The purchase was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this link. Also, Director Allan Levine bought 3,100 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on 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 completion of the purchase, the director directly owned 4,153 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,271,150.24. The trade was a 294.40% increase in their ownership of the stock. The SEC filing for this purchase provides additional information. 1.10% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

About Everest Group

(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.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for Everest Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Everest Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Green Dot Corporation (NYSE:GDOT  Get Free Report) Director Saturnino Sixto Fanlo sold 13,451 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Friday, November 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $12.61, for a total value of $169,617.11. Following the completion of the sale, the director owned 92,737 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,169,413.57. This represents a 12.67% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink.

Green Dot Trading Up 2.2%

GDOT stock traded up $0.27 during mid-day trading on Friday, reaching $12.57. 1,038,682 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 836,987. The business has a 50-day moving average price of $12.46 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $11.64. The stock has a market capitalization of $696.63 million, a PE ratio of -14.79 and a beta of 0.80. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.07, a quick ratio of 0.54 and a current ratio of 0.54. Green Dot Corporation has a one year low of $6.12 and a one year high of $15.41.

Get Green Dot alerts:

Green Dot (NYSE:GDOT  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Monday, November 10th. The financial services provider reported $0.06 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of ($0.11) by $0.17. The firm had revenue of $491.85 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $483.84 million. Green Dot had a negative net margin of 2.33% and a positive return on equity of 9.81%. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 20.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the company earned $0.13 EPS. Green Dot has set its FY 2025 guidance at 1.310-1.440 EPS. Equities research analysts expect that Green Dot Corporation will post 0.87 EPS for the current year.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several brokerages have commented on GDOT. Zacks Research downgraded Green Dot from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, October 16th. Northland Capmk lowered shares of Green Dot from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Tuesday. Weiss Ratings restated a sell (d-) rating on shares of Green Dot in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Wall Street Zen downgraded shares of Green Dot from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Saturday, November 15th. Finally, Northland Securities set a $14.25 price target on Green Dot and gave the company a market perform rating in a report on Tuesday. One research analyst has 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, Green Dot currently has an average rating of Reduce and an average price target of $12.56.

Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on Green Dot

Institutional Trading of Green Dot

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of GDOT. No Street GP LP raised its position in shares of Green Dot by 150.0% in the 3rd quarter. No Street GP LP now owns 4,000,000 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $53,720,000 after acquiring an additional 2,400,000 shares in the last quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership boosted its position in Green Dot by 403.1% during the second quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership now owns 1,223,123 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $13,185,000 after purchasing an additional 980,012 shares in the last quarter. Oberweis Asset Management Inc. purchased a new position in Green Dot in the third quarter valued at about $13,031,000. Nuveen LLC purchased a new position in Green Dot in the first quarter valued at about $5,901,000. Finally, Acuitas Investments LLC bought a new position in Green Dot in the third quarter worth about $5,587,000. Institutional investors own 92.56% of the companys stock.

About Green Dot

(Get Free Report)

Green Dot Corporation, a financial technology and registered bank holding company, provides various financial services to consumers and businesses in the United States. It operates through three segments: Consumer Services, Business to Business Services, and Money Movement Services. The company provides deposit account programs, including consumer and small business checking account products, network-branded reloadable prepaid debit cards and gift cards, and secured credit programs.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Green Dot Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Green Dot and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
QuantumScape Corporation (NYSE:QS  Get Free Report) CFO Kevin Hettrich sold 9,800 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, November 21st. The shares were sold at an average price of $11.29, for a total value of $110,642.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief financial officer owned 1,502,238 shares in the company, valued at approximately $16,960,267.02. This represents a 0.65% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website.

Kevin Hettrich also recently made the following trade(s):

Get QuantumScape alerts:

On Wednesday, October 1st, Kevin Hettrich sold 9,800 shares of QuantumScape stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $13.94, for a total transaction of $136,612.00.

On Friday, September 12th, Kevin Hettrich sold 9,800 shares of QuantumScape stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $9.20, for a total transaction of $90,160.00.

QuantumScape Stock Up 2.0%

NYSE:QS opened at $12.10 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.02, a current ratio of 21.14 and a quick ratio of 21.14. The companys fifty day moving average price is $14.59 and its 200-day moving average price is $9.91. QuantumScape Corporation has a 1-year low of $3.40 and a 1-year high of $19.07. The firm has a market capitalization of $7.27 billion, a P/E ratio of -14.93 and a beta of 4.83.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

QuantumScape ( NYSE:QS Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, October 22nd. The company reported ($0.18) EPS for the quarter, meeting the consensus estimate of ($0.18). During the same quarter in the previous year, the business earned ($0.23) earnings per share. As a group, equities research analysts anticipate that QuantumScape Corporation will post -0.82 EPS for the current year.

QS has been the topic of several analyst reports. TD Cowen raised their target price on QuantumScape from $5.00 to $16.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a report on Thursday, October 30th. Evercore ISI restated an in-line rating and issued a $12.00 price objective (up previously from $8.00) on shares of QuantumScape in a research report on Monday. HSBC cut shares of QuantumScape from a hold rating to a reduce rating and raised their price objective for the stock from $5.30 to $10.50 in a research note on Wednesday, November 19th. Hsbc Global Res upgraded shares of QuantumScape to a moderate sell rating in a research note on Wednesday, November 19th. Finally, Cowen restated a hold rating on shares of QuantumScape in a research report on Thursday, October 30th. Six analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating and four have given a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Reduce and a consensus target price of $8.81.

Read Our Latest Stock Report on QuantumScape

Institutional Trading of QuantumScape

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in QS. Centaurus Financial Inc. acquired a new position in shares of QuantumScape during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $129,000. Coldstream Capital Management Inc. raised its position in QuantumScape by 8.2% during the third quarter. Coldstream Capital Management Inc. now owns 12,408 shares of the companys stock worth $153,000 after acquiring an additional 939 shares during the period. Advisory Services Network LLC purchased a new position in QuantumScape during the third quarter valued at $809,000. Kestra Private Wealth Services LLC lifted its holdings in QuantumScape by 121.4% during the third quarter. Kestra Private Wealth Services LLC now owns 68,706 shares of the companys stock valued at $846,000 after purchasing an additional 37,668 shares in the last quarter. Finally, NewEdge Advisors LLC grew its position in shares of QuantumScape by 207.3% in the third quarter. NewEdge Advisors LLC now owns 64,343 shares of the companys stock valued at $793,000 after purchasing an additional 43,402 shares during the period. 29.87% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

QuantumScape Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

QuantumScape Corporation, a research and development stage company, focuses on the development and commercialization of solid-state lithium-metal batteries for electric vehicles and other applications. The company was founded in 2010 and is headquartered in San Jose, California.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for QuantumScape Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for QuantumScape and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Invesco Ltd. (NYSE:IVZ  Get Free Report) hit a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Wednesday . The company traded as high as $24.77 and last traded at $24.7390, with a volume of 689562 shares. The stock had previously closed at $24.23.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several analysts have recently commented on the stock. Royal Bank Of Canada lifted their price target on shares of Invesco from $23.00 to $25.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a research report on Thursday, October 30th. Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c+) rating on shares of Invesco in a research report on Tuesday. Bank of America upped their price target on Invesco from $23.00 to $25.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, October 2nd. Fundamental Research set a $27.00 price objective on Invesco in a research report on Friday, October 31st. Finally, Citigroup boosted their price objective on shares of Invesco from $22.00 to $25.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Monday, September 29th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, five have issued a Buy rating and eleven have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $23.63.

Get Invesco alerts:

View Our Latest Report on IVZ

Invesco Price Performance

The company has a current ratio of 1.30, a quick ratio of 1.30 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.67. The stock has a market cap of $10.93 billion, a PE ratio of 16.70, a P/E/G ratio of 0.85 and a beta of 1.72. The company has a fifty day moving average of $23.33 and a 200-day moving average of $20.06.

Invesco (NYSE:IVZ  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, October 28th. The asset manager reported $0.61 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.44 by $0.17. The company had revenue of $1.19 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.17 billion. Invesco had a return on equity of 8.52% and a net margin of 14.15%.Invescos revenue for the quarter was up 7.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the business posted $0.44 EPS. Sell-side analysts expect that Invesco Ltd. will post 1.87 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Invesco Announces Dividend

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 2nd. Investors of record on Friday, November 14th will be issued a $0.21 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, November 14th. This represents a $0.84 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.4%. Invescos payout ratio is 57.14%.

Insider Activity at Invesco

In other Invesco news, Director Douglas J. Sharp sold 160,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, October 31st. The shares were sold at an average price of $23.56, for a total transaction of $3,769,600.00. Following the sale, the director directly owned 192 shares in the company, valued at $4,523.52. This represents a 99.88% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. Also, Director Stephanie Butcher sold 103,192 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, September 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $22.12, for a total transaction of $2,282,607.04. Following the completion of the transaction, the director directly owned 29,855 shares of the companys stock, valued at $660,392.60. This represents a 77.56% decrease in their position. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. 1.21% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Invesco

Several large investors have recently bought and sold shares of IVZ. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Invesco by 99.6% in the 1st quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 7,026,920 shares of the asset managers stock valued at $106,598,000 after buying an additional 3,507,150 shares during the period. First Trust Advisors LP raised its holdings in Invesco by 5,065.4% in the second quarter. First Trust Advisors LP now owns 3,380,933 shares of the asset managers stock valued at $53,317,000 after acquiring an additional 3,315,480 shares in the last quarter. Norges Bank acquired a new stake in Invesco in the second quarter valued at approximately $51,838,000. AQR Capital Management LLC lifted its stake in Invesco by 35.4% in the first quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC now owns 11,028,524 shares of the asset managers stock worth $165,262,000 after acquiring an additional 2,882,928 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Holocene Advisors LP acquired a new position in Invesco during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $55,719,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 66.09% of the companys stock.

Invesco Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Invesco Ltd. is a publicly owned investment manager. The firm provides its services to retail clients, institutional clients, high-net worth clients, public entities, corporations, unions, non-profit organizations, endowments, foundations, pension funds, financial institutions, and sovereign wealth funds.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Invesco Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Invesco and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Korea Investment CORP lessened its holdings in The Boeing Company (NYSE:BA  Free Report) by 17.4% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 383,493 shares of the aircraft producers stock after selling 80,641 shares during the quarter. Korea Investment CORPs holdings in Boeing were worth $80,353,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of BA. Wallace Advisory Group LLC boosted its position in shares of Boeing by 1.2% in the 2nd quarter. Wallace Advisory Group LLC now owns 3,570 shares of the aircraft producers stock worth $748,000 after purchasing an additional 44 shares during the last quarter. Aspire Capital Advisors LLC lifted its stake in Boeing by 0.8% in the second quarter. Aspire Capital Advisors LLC now owns 5,943 shares of the aircraft producers stock valued at $1,245,000 after buying an additional 45 shares during the period. Lantz Financial LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Boeing by 1.5% during the 2nd quarter. Lantz Financial LLC now owns 3,072 shares of the aircraft producers stock valued at $644,000 after purchasing an additional 46 shares in the last quarter. Blue Barn Wealth LLC increased its stake in Boeing by 1.8% during the 2nd quarter. Blue Barn Wealth LLC now owns 2,594 shares of the aircraft producers stock worth $544,000 after purchasing an additional 46 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Atlas Brown Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Boeing by 0.7% in the second quarter. Atlas Brown Inc. now owns 6,498 shares of the aircraft producers stock valued at $1,362,000 after buying an additional 48 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 64.82% of the companys stock.

Get Boeing alerts:

Boeing Stock Performance

Shares of BA stock opened at $186.90 on Friday. The Boeing Company has a 52-week low of $128.88 and a 52-week high of $242.69. The firms 50-day moving average is $206.38 and its 200-day moving average is $214.34. The stock has a market cap of $142.06 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -13.66 and a beta of 1.44.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Boeing ( NYSE:BA Get Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, October 29th. The aircraft producer reported ($7.47) earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of ($0.51) by ($6.96). The company had revenue of $23.27 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $21.61 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned ($10.44) earnings per share. The companys revenue was up 30.4% compared to the same quarter last year. Sell-side analysts predict that The Boeing Company will post -2.58 EPS for the current fiscal year.

BA has been the subject of a number of research reports. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft cut Boeing from a buy rating to a hold rating and set a $240.00 target price for the company. in a report on Thursday, October 30th. Royal Bank Of Canada reiterated an outperform rating and issued a $250.00 price objective on shares of Boeing in a report on Monday, September 29th. BNP Paribas set a $150.00 price objective on shares of Boeing in a research report on Tuesday, November 18th. Sanford C. Bernstein reaffirmed an outperform rating and issued a $267.00 target price on shares of Boeing in a research report on Friday, November 14th. Finally, Zacks Research lowered shares of Boeing from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 29th. Three analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, fifteen have issued a Buy rating, three have issued a Hold rating and six have assigned a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $232.09.

View Our Latest Report on BA

Insider Activity at Boeing

In related news, EVP Uma M. Amuluru sold 1,366 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Thursday, November 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $197.66, for a total value of $270,003.56. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president directly owned 14,656 shares in the company, valued at $2,896,904.96. The trade was a 8.53% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Also, SVP Dana S. Deasy acquired 554 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, November 24th. The stock was purchased at an average cost of $178.88 per share, for a total transaction of $99,099.52. Following the completion of the acquisition, the senior vice president owned 28,442 shares in the company, valued at approximately $5,087,704.96. This represents a 1.99% increase in their ownership of the stock. The SEC filing for this purchase provides additional information. Company insiders own 0.09% of the companys stock.

Boeing Company Profile

(Free Report)

The Boeing Company, together with its subsidiaries, designs, develops, manufactures, sells, services, and supports commercial jetliners, military aircraft, satellites, missile defense, human space flight and launch systems, and services worldwide. The company operates through Commercial Airplanes; Defense, Space & Security; and Global Services segments.

Featured Articles

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BA? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for The Boeing Company (NYSE:BA  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Boeing Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Boeing and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Lavras Gold Corp. (CVE:LGC  Get Free Report) reached a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Friday . The company traded as high as C$3.38 and last traded at C$3.40, with a volume of 41885 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at C$2.97.

Lavras Gold Stock Performance

The company has a market cap of C$198.32 million, a PE ratio of -48.57 and a beta of -1.44. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.60, a current ratio of 4.11 and a quick ratio of 11.12. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of C$2.46 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of C$2.31.

Lavras Gold Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Lavras Gold Corp. engages in the exploration and development of mineral resource properties in Brazil. It holds interests in the Lavras do Sul, an advanced exploration gold project with 29 mineral rights covering approximately 22,000 hectares located in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The company was incorporated in 2021 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Lavras Gold Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Lavras Gold and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Legal & General Group Plc increased its holdings in Mueller Water Products (NYSE:MWA  Free Report) by 8.3% in the second quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The firm owned 1,040,708 shares of the industrial products companys stock after buying an additional 80,053 shares during the quarter. Legal & General Group Plcs holdings in Mueller Water Products were worth $25,019,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its position in shares of Mueller Water Products by 16.8% in the first quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 19,795,482 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $503,201,000 after buying an additional 2,840,895 shares in the last quarter. Nuveen LLC purchased a new position in shares of Mueller Water Products during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $61,497,000. Fuller & Thaler Asset Management Inc. grew its stake in Mueller Water Products by 66.2% in the 1st quarter. Fuller & Thaler Asset Management Inc. now owns 5,401,086 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $137,296,000 after acquiring an additional 2,152,096 shares during the period. Westfield Capital Management Co. LP purchased a new stake in Mueller Water Products in the 1st quarter worth $53,854,000. Finally, Invesco Ltd. raised its position in Mueller Water Products by 21.6% during the first quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 4,880,108 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $124,052,000 after acquiring an additional 865,977 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 91.68% of the companys stock.

Get Mueller Water Products alerts:

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Separately, Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a buy (b) rating on shares of Mueller Water Products in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating and two have issued a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $29.00.

Insider Transactions at Mueller Water Products

In other Mueller Water Products news, Director Brian C. Healy acquired 1,070 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, October 7th. The stock was bought at an average price of $25.78 per share, with a total value of $27,584.60. Following the purchase, the director owned 16,800 shares in the company, valued at approximately $433,104. The trade was a 6.80% increase in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Corporate insiders own 1.10% of the companys stock.

Mueller Water Products Stock Up 0.0%

Shares of MWA opened at $24.34 on Friday. The stock has a 50 day moving average price of $24.94 and a 200 day moving average price of $25.05. Mueller Water Products has a one year low of $21.35 and a one year high of $28.58. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.48, a quick ratio of 2.56 and a current ratio of 3.86. The stock has a market capitalization of $3.81 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 25.89, a PEG ratio of 1.21 and a beta of 1.18.

Mueller Water Products (NYSE:MWA  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, February 24th. The industrial products company reported $0.11 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. Mueller Water Products had a net margin of 10.67% and a return on equity of 20.89%. The company had revenue of $237.40 million for the quarter. Equities research analysts forecast that Mueller Water Products will post 1.24 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Mueller Water Products Increases Dividend

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, November 20th. Investors of record on Monday, November 10th were given a dividend of $0.07 per share. The ex-dividend date was Monday, November 10th. This is a boost from Mueller Water Productss previous quarterly dividend of $0.07. This represents a $0.28 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.2%. Mueller Water Productss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 23.14%.

Mueller Water Products Profile

(Free Report)

Mueller Water Products, Inc manufactures and markets products and services for the transmission, distribution, and measurement of water used by municipalities, and the residential and non-residential construction industries in the United States, Israel, and internationally. It operates in two segments, Water Flow Solutions and Water Management Solutions.

Featured Articles

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MWA? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Mueller Water Products (NYSE:MWA  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Mueller Water Products Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Mueller Water Products and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Legal & General Group Plc bought a new stake in shares of JBT Marel Corporation (NYSE:JBTM  Free Report) during the second quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The fund bought 226,483 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $27,237,000.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of the stock. Fifth Third Bancorp purchased a new stake in JBT Marel in the second quarter worth about $50,000. Public Employees Retirement System of Ohio bought a new position in shares of JBT Marel in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $63,000. PineStone Asset Management Inc. purchased a new position in shares of JBT Marel in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $10,490,000. Congress Asset Management Co. purchased a new position in shares of JBT Marel in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $53,515,000. Finally, State of Alaska Department of Revenue bought a new stake in shares of JBT Marel during the second quarter valued at approximately $3,308,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 98.92% of the companys stock.

Get JBT Marel alerts:

JBT Marel Price Performance

NYSE JBTM opened at $141.21 on Friday. The company has a current ratio of 0.93, a quick ratio of 0.53 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.35. JBT Marel Corporation has a 12 month low of $90.08 and a 12 month high of $148.76. The stock has a market cap of $7.34 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -61.66, a PEG ratio of 1.72 and a beta of 1.18. The companys 50 day moving average is $136.58 and its two-hundred day moving average is $132.03.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

JBT Marel ( NYSE:JBTM Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Monday, November 3rd. The company reported $1.94 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.51 by $0.43. The business had revenue of $1 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $936.75 million. JBT Marel had a negative net margin of 5.08% and a positive return on equity of 7.96%. JBT Marels 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. As a group, research analysts anticipate that JBT Marel Corporation will post 5.21 earnings per share for the current year.

A number of brokerages recently issued reports on JBTM. William Blair raised shares of JBT Marel from a market perform rating to an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday, August 6th. Weiss Ratings reiterated a hold (c-) rating on shares of JBT Marel in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Robert W. Baird set a $169.00 price objective on shares of JBT Marel in a research report on Friday, October 3rd. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has given a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, JBT Marel currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $156.00.

View Our Latest Research Report on JBT Marel

About JBT Marel

(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.

See Also

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding JBTM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for JBT Marel Corporation (NYSE:JBTM  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for JBT Marel Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for JBT Marel and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Level Four Advisory Services LLC boosted its holdings in Occidental Petroleum Corporation (NYSE:OXY  Free Report) by 13.4% in the 2nd quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The firm owned 175,376 shares of the oil and gas producers stock after purchasing an additional 20,727 shares during the period. Level Four Advisory Services LLCs holdings in Occidental Petroleum were worth $7,368,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other large investors have also recently modified their holdings of OXY. University of Texas Texas AM Investment Management Co. bought a new position in Occidental Petroleum during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $27,000. Hantz Financial Services Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Occidental Petroleum by 1,193.9% during the second quarter. Hantz Financial Services Inc. now owns 854 shares of the oil and gas producers stock valued at $36,000 after purchasing an additional 788 shares during the period. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd bought a new position in shares of Occidental Petroleum in the first quarter worth approximately $39,000. MeadowBrook Investment Advisors LLC increased its stake in shares of 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 worth $42,000 after buying an additional 788 shares during the period. Finally, Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group Inc. bought a new stake in Occidental Petroleum during the 2nd quarter valued at $51,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 88.70% of the companys stock.

Get Occidental Petroleum alerts:

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of research firms have issued reports on OXY. Melius Research started coverage on shares of Occidental Petroleum in a research report on Wednesday, August 20th. They issued a hold rating and a $64.00 price objective on the stock. UBS Group reduced their price target on Occidental Petroleum from $46.00 to $45.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Friday, October 3rd. Evercore ISI dropped their price objective on Occidental Petroleum from $40.00 to $38.00 and set an underperform rating for the company in a report on Friday, October 3rd. HSBC cut their price objective on Occidental Petroleum from $55.00 to $54.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, November 12th. Finally, Raymond James Financial restated an outperform rating and set a $50.00 target price on shares of Occidental Petroleum in a report on Tuesday. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, five have given a Buy rating, fourteen have given a Hold rating and three have issued a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, Occidental Petroleum presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $50.52.

Occidental Petroleum Stock Up 0.1%

OXY stock opened at $41.46 on Friday. Occidental Petroleum Corporation has a fifty-two week low of $34.78 and a fifty-two week high of $53.20. The company has a market capitalization of $40.84 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 24.53 and a beta of 0.91. The businesss 50 day moving average price is $42.90 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $43.78. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.84, a quick ratio of 0.83 and a current ratio of 1.05.

Occidental Petroleum (NYSE:OXY  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Monday, November 10th. The oil and gas producer reported $0.64 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate 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 return on equity of 13.78% and a net margin of 8.79%.The firms revenue was down 6.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $1.00 earnings per share. As a group, analysts forecast that Occidental Petroleum Corporation will post 3.58 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Occidental Petroleum Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, January 15th. Investors of record on Wednesday, December 10th will be given a dividend of $0.24 per share. This represents a $0.96 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.3%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, December 10th. Occidental Petroleums dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 70.59%.

Occidental Petroleum Company 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.

See Also

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding OXY? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Occidental Petroleum Corporation (NYSE:OXY  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Occidental Petroleum Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Occidental Petroleum and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Measured Wealth Private Client Group LLC increased its stake in shares of Applied Industrial Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:AIT  Free Report) by 5.7% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 4,654 shares of the industrial products companys stock after purchasing an additional 251 shares during the period. Measured Wealth Private Client Group LLCs holdings in Applied Industrial Technologies were worth $1,082,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Rise Advisors LLC grew its position in shares of Applied Industrial Technologies by 111.1% during the 1st quarter. Rise Advisors LLC now owns 133 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $30,000 after buying an additional 70 shares during the period. Hantz Financial Services Inc. boosted its stake in Applied Industrial Technologies by 2,033.3% during the 2nd quarter. Hantz Financial Services Inc. now owns 128 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $30,000 after acquiring an additional 122 shares during the last quarter. Maseco LLP acquired a new position in Applied Industrial Technologies during the second quarter valued at approximately $35,000. SVB Wealth LLC bought a new stake in Applied Industrial Technologies in the first quarter valued at approximately $48,000. Finally, Harbor Investment Advisory LLC raised its holdings in Applied Industrial Technologies by 100.6% in the second quarter. Harbor Investment Advisory LLC now owns 321 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $75,000 after purchasing an additional 161 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 93.52% of the companys stock.

Get Applied Industrial Technologies alerts:

Analyst Ratings Changes

AIT has been the topic of a number of recent analyst reports. Mizuho set a $305.00 price target on shares of Applied Industrial Technologies in a research report on Wednesday, October 29th. Robert W. Baird raised their price target on Applied Industrial Technologies from $265.00 to $300.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Friday, August 15th. Weiss Ratings reiterated a buy (b-) rating on shares of Applied Industrial Technologies in a research report on Tuesday. Oppenheimer raised their target price on shares of Applied Industrial Technologies from $290.00 to $300.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Friday, August 15th. Finally, Industrial Alliance Securities set a $290.00 price target on shares of Applied Industrial Technologies in a report on Friday, August 22nd. Six research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has given a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $287.50.

Applied Industrial Technologies Stock Up 0.6%

Shares of Applied Industrial Technologies stock opened at $257.23 on Friday. The firm has a market cap of $9.70 billion, a PE ratio of 24.76, a P/E/G ratio of 2.61 and a beta of 0.99. Applied Industrial Technologies, Inc. has a 52-week low of $199.96 and a 52-week high of $282.98. The businesss 50 day simple moving average is $254.72 and its 200 day simple moving average is $251.34. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.30, a quick ratio of 2.36 and a current ratio of 3.55.

Applied Industrial Technologies (NYSE:AIT  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, October 28th. The industrial products company reported $2.63 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.47 by $0.16. The company had revenue of $1.20 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.19 billion. Applied Industrial Technologies had a net margin of 8.61% and a return on equity of 21.86%. The companys quarterly revenue was up 9.2% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted $2.36 EPS. Applied Industrial Technologies has set its FY 2026 guidance at 10.100-10.850 EPS. On average, analysts predict that Applied Industrial Technologies, Inc. will post 9.9 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Applied Industrial Technologies Announces Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, November 28th. Shareholders of record on Friday, November 14th will be paid a $0.46 dividend. This represents a $1.84 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.7%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, November 14th. Applied Industrial Technologiess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 17.71%.

Applied Industrial Technologies Profile

(Free Report)

Applied Industrial Technologies, Inc distributes industrial motion, power, control, and automation technology solutions in North America, Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore. It operates in two segments, Service Center Based Distribution, and Engineered Solutions. The company distributes bearings, power transmission products, engineered fluid power components and systems, specialty flow control solutions, advanced automation products, industrial rubber products, linear motion components, automation solutions, tools, safety products, oilfield supplies, and other industrial and maintenance supplies; and motors, belting, drives, couplings, pumps, hydraulic and pneumatic components, filtration supplies, valves, fittings, process instrumentation, actuators, and hoses, filtration supplies, as well as other related supplies for general operational needs of customers' machinery and equipment.

Featured Articles

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding AIT? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Applied Industrial Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:AIT  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Applied Industrial Technologies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Applied Industrial Technologies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Measured Wealth Private Client Group LLC raised its holdings in Invesco Next Gen Media and Gaming ETF (NYSEARCA:GGME  Free Report) by 26.1% during the 2nd quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The institutional investor owned 15,345 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 3,180 shares during the period. Measured Wealth Private Client Group LLCs holdings in Invesco Next Gen Media and Gaming ETF were worth $942,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently made changes to their positions in the business. Consolidated Capital Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Invesco Next Gen Media and Gaming ETF during the 2nd quarter valued at about $217,000. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. bought a new position in Invesco Next Gen Media and Gaming ETF during the second quarter worth about $245,000. Private Advisor Group LLC acquired a new stake in Invesco Next Gen Media and Gaming ETF during the first quarter valued at approximately $355,000. Royal Bank of Canada grew its stake in shares of Invesco Next Gen Media and Gaming ETF by 181.1% in the 1st quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 9,989 shares of the companys stock valued at $499,000 after purchasing an additional 6,436 shares during the period. Finally, Envestnet Asset Management Inc. grew its stake in shares of Invesco Next Gen Media and Gaming ETF by 132.7% in the 2nd quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 14,053 shares of the companys stock valued at $862,000 after purchasing an additional 8,015 shares during the period.

Get Invesco Next Gen Media and Gaming ETF alerts:

Invesco Next Gen Media and Gaming ETF Trading Up 0.4%

Shares of GGME opened at $59.90 on Friday. The stock has a market cap of $150.35 million, a PE ratio of 33.42 and a beta of 1.26. Invesco Next Gen Media and Gaming ETF has a 1 year low of $41.17 and a 1 year high of $66.18. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $63.31 and a 200-day simple moving average of $61.28.

About Invesco Next Gen Media and Gaming ETF

The Invesco Next Gen Media and Gaming ETF (GGME) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the STOXX World AC NexGen Media index. The fund tracks an index of securities that derive a majority of their revenue to the future media industry. These components may be from any market-cap, and from any geography.

Read More

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding GGME? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Invesco Next Gen Media and Gaming ETF (NYSEARCA:GGME  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Invesco Next Gen Media and Gaming ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Invesco Next Gen Media and Gaming ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Agnico Eagle Mines (NYSE:AEM  Get Free Report) and Minco Capital (OTCMKTS:MGHCF  Get Free Report) are both basic materials companies, but which is the superior investment? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their profitability, valuation, dividends, earnings, risk, analyst recommendations and institutional ownership.

Profitability

This table compares Agnico Eagle Mines and Minco Capitals net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Get Agnico Eagle Mines alerts:

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Agnico Eagle Mines 32.62% 15.97% 11.25% Minco Capital N/A 10.65% 10.32%

Analyst Recommendations

This is a summary of recent ratings and recommmendations for Agnico Eagle Mines and Minco Capital, as reported by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Agnico Eagle Mines 0 2 10 5 3.18 Minco Capital 0 0 0 0 0.00

Earnings & Valuation

Agnico Eagle Mines currently has a consensus target price of $184.50, suggesting a potential upside of 6.61%. Given Agnico Eagle Mines stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, research analysts clearly believe Agnico Eagle Mines is more favorable than Minco Capital.

This table compares Agnico Eagle Mines and Minco Capitals gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Agnico Eagle Mines $10.57 billion 8.22 $1.90 billion $6.85 25.27 Minco Capital N/A N/A -$290,000.00 $0.02 2.22

Agnico Eagle Mines has higher revenue and earnings than Minco Capital. Minco Capital is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Agnico Eagle Mines, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Insider & Institutional Ownership

68.3% of Agnico Eagle Mines shares are held by institutional investors. 0.5% of Agnico Eagle Mines shares are held by 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.

Volatility and Risk

Agnico Eagle Mines has a beta of 0.45, indicating that its stock price is 55% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Minco Capital has a beta of 0.14, indicating that its stock price is 86% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Summary

Agnico Eagle Mines beats Minco Capital on 14 of the 14 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Agnico Eagle Mines

(Get Free Report)

Agnico Eagle Mines Limited, a gold mining company, exploration, development, and production of precious metals. It explores for gold. The company's mines are located in Canada, Australia, Finland and Mexico, with exploration and development activities in Canada, Australia, Europe, Latin America, and the United States. Agnico Eagle Mines Limited was incorporated in 1953 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada.

About Minco Capital

(Get Free Report)

Minco Capital Corp., an investment company, focuses on investing in public and private companies and assets to generate income and achieve long-term capital appreciation. The company was formerly known as Minco Gold Corporation and changed its name to Minco Capital Corp. in February 2019. Minco Capital Corp. was incorporated in 1982 and is headquartered in Vancouver, Canada.

Receive News & Ratings for Agnico Eagle Mines Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Agnico Eagle Mines and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
NINE MASTS CAPITAL Ltd bought a new stake in Telus Digital (NYSE:TIXT  Free Report) during the second quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The institutional investor bought 130,000 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $472,000.

Several other hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the stock. Northwest & Ethical Investments L.P. grew its position in Telus Digital by 31.8% in the 2nd quarter. Northwest & Ethical Investments L.P. now owns 2,209,937 shares of the companys stock valued at $8,029,000 after buying an additional 533,260 shares during the last quarter. XTX Topco Ltd acquired a new stake in shares of Telus Digital in the 2nd quarter worth $392,000. Aviso Financial Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Telus Digital by 25.2% in the second quarter. Aviso Financial Inc. now owns 60,651 shares of the companys stock valued at $220,000 after acquiring an additional 12,225 shares in the last quarter. Alberta Investment Management Corp purchased a new stake in shares of Telus Digital in the second quarter valued at about $708,000. Finally, Connor Clark & Lunn Investment Management Ltd. acquired a new position in shares of Telus Digital during the second quarter worth about $169,000. 59.55% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Get Telus Digital alerts:

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

TIXT has been the subject of a number of recent analyst reports. Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Telus Digital to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday, November 1st. Stifel Canada downgraded Telus Digital from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Tuesday, September 2nd. Scotiabank raised their price target on Telus Digital from $3.40 to $4.50 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a report on Thursday, September 4th. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a sell (d) rating on shares of Telus Digital in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus cut Telus Digital from a buy rating to a hold rating and increased their price objective for the stock from $4.00 to $4.50 in a research report on Wednesday, September 3rd. Eight equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Telus Digital presently has an average rating of Reduce and an average price target of $3.93.

Telus Digital Stock Performance

NYSE TIXT opened at $4.33 on Friday. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $4.41 and a 200 day moving average price of $3.92. The company has a market capitalization of $1.20 billion, a P/E ratio of -3.12 and a beta of 0.94. Telus Digital has a 1-year low of $2.13 and a 1-year high of $4.60. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.85, a current ratio of 0.84 and a quick ratio of 0.84.

About Telus Digital

(Free Report)

TELUS Digital Inc design, builds, and delivers digital solutions for customer experience (CX) in the Asia-Pacific, the Central America, Europe, Africa, North America, and internationally. The company provides digital experience solutions, such as AI and bots, omnichannel CX, enterprise mobility solutions, cloud contact center, big data analytics, platform transformation, and UX/UI design; and customer experience solutions, including work anywhere/work from home, contact center outsourcing, technical support, sales growth and customer retention, healthcare/patient experience, and debt collection.

Read More

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding TIXT? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Telus Digital (NYSE:TIXT  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Telus Digital Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Telus Digital and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
NINE MASTS CAPITAL Ltd acquired a new position in shares of Edwards Lifesciences Corporation (NYSE:EW  Free Report) in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor acquired 400,000 shares of the medical research companys stock, valued at approximately $31,284,000. Edwards Lifesciences makes up approximately 9.8% of NINE MASTS CAPITAL Ltds portfolio, making the stock its 2nd biggest holding. NINE MASTS CAPITAL Ltd owned 0.07% of Edwards Lifesciences as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in EW. Nuveen LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Edwards Lifesciences during the 1st quarter worth about $330,881,000. Jennison Associates LLC grew its stake in Edwards Lifesciences by 15.7% during the second quarter. Jennison Associates LLC now owns 11,670,991 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $912,788,000 after buying an additional 1,584,958 shares during the last quarter. Primecap Management Co. CA increased its holdings in shares of Edwards Lifesciences by 49.9% during the second quarter. Primecap Management Co. CA now owns 3,446,891 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $269,581,000 after buying an additional 1,147,291 shares in the last quarter. Mirova US LLC raised its stake in shares of Edwards Lifesciences by 56.2% in the second quarter. Mirova US LLC now owns 2,931,297 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $229,257,000 after acquiring an additional 1,054,301 shares during the last quarter. Finally, VIRGINIA RETIREMENT SYSTEMS ET Al acquired a new position in shares of Edwards Lifesciences in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $67,832,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 79.46% of the companys stock.

Get Edwards Lifesciences alerts:

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

EW has been the subject of a number of recent analyst reports. BTIG Research reaffirmed a buy rating and set a $100.00 price target on shares of Edwards Lifesciences in a report on Tuesday. Evercore ISI raised their target price on Edwards Lifesciences from $88.00 to $92.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, October 31st. Canaccord Genuity Group reiterated a hold rating and set a $84.00 price target (up previously from $81.00) on shares of Edwards Lifesciences in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. Barclays reissued an overweight rating and set a $99.00 price objective (up previously from $95.00) on shares of Edwards Lifesciences in a report on Friday, October 31st. Finally, Mizuho boosted their target price on shares of Edwards Lifesciences from $90.00 to $100.00 and gave the stock an outperform 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 issued a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $91.39.

Insider Activity

In related news, VP Daniel J. Lippis sold 1,020 shares of the 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 sale, the vice president directly owned 22,002 shares in the company, valued at $1,816,265.10. This trade represents a 4.43% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this link. Also, CFO Scott B. Ullem sold 13,000 shares of the businesss 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 owned 39,898 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,314,725.84. This represents a 24.58% decrease in their position. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Corporate insiders own 1.29% of the companys stock.

Edwards Lifesciences Trading Down 0.0%

Shares of NYSE EW opened at $86.78 on Friday. Edwards Lifesciences Corporation has a fifty-two week low of $65.94 and a fifty-two week high of $87.40. The firm has a market capitalization of $50.36 billion, a P/E ratio of 12.49, a P/E/G ratio of 3.97 and a beta of 1.03. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.06, a current ratio of 4.68 and a quick ratio of 3.87. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $79.68 and its 200 day simple moving average is $78.37.

Edwards Lifesciences (NYSE:EW  Get Free Report) last issued its 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. Edwards Lifesciences had a net margin of 72.96% and a return on equity of 15.01%. The company had revenue of $1.55 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.49 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $0.67 EPS. The businesss 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 predict that Edwards Lifesciences Corporation will post 2.45 EPS for the current year.

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.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding EW? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Edwards Lifesciences Corporation (NYSE:EW  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Edwards Lifesciences Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Edwards Lifesciences and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Nordic American Tankers (NYSE:NAT  Get Free Report)s stock had its hold rating restated by Jefferies Financial Group in a research note issued to investors on Friday,Benzinga reports. They currently have a $3.50 price target on the shipping companys stock. Jefferies Financial Groups price target points to a potential downside of 7.04% from the companys previous close.

Several other research analysts also recently commented on NAT. Wall Street Zen downgraded Nordic American Tankers from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research note on Saturday, November 22nd. Evercore ISI increased their price objective on shares of Nordic American Tankers from $2.50 to $3.00 and gave the company an in-line rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 28th. Finally, Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c) rating on shares of Nordic American Tankers in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Three analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating, According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $3.25.

Get Nordic American Tankers alerts:

Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on NAT

Nordic American Tankers Stock Performance

Shares of NAT stock opened at $3.77 on Friday. The company has a fifty day moving average price of $3.50 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $3.07. Nordic American Tankers has a one year low of $2.13 and a one year high of $3.93. The stock has a market cap of $797.24 million, a P/E ratio of 53.79 and a beta of -0.36. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.84, a current ratio of 2.33 and a quick ratio of 2.04.

Nordic American Tankers (NYSE:NAT  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, August 28th. The shipping company reported ($0.02) earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.03 by ($0.05). Nordic American Tankers had a return on equity of 2.67% and a net margin of 7.58%.The firm had revenue of $40.15 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $53.35 million. As a group, equities analysts predict that Nordic American Tankers will post 0.24 EPS for the current year.

Institutional Trading of Nordic American Tankers

Large investors have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Savant Capital LLC bought a new position in Nordic American Tankers in the second quarter valued at approximately $28,000. Vanguard Personalized Indexing Management LLC bought a new position in Nordic American Tankers in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $32,000. BlueStem Wealth Partners LLC bought a new position in shares of Nordic American Tankers during the third quarter valued at $32,000. HBK Sorce Advisory LLC acquired a new position in Nordic American Tankers during the 3rd quarter worth about $33,000. Finally, Caprock Group LLC acquired a new position in shares of Nordic American Tankers in the third quarter worth approximately $36,000. 44.29% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Nordic American Tankers Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Nordic American Tankers Limited, a tanker company, acquires and charters double-hull tankers in Bermuda and internationally. It operates a fleet of 20 Suezmax crude oil tankers. The company was incorporated in 1995 and is headquartered in Hamilton, Bermuda.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Nordic American Tankers Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Nordic American Tankers and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Norges Bank bought a new position in Accenture PLC (NYSE:ACN  Free Report) in the 2nd quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The institutional investor bought 7,416,943 shares of the information technology services providers stock, valued at approximately $2,216,850,000.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the company. Aprio Wealth Management LLC increased its stake in shares of Accenture by 2.1% in the first quarter. Aprio Wealth Management LLC now owns 1,640 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $512,000 after purchasing an additional 33 shares during the period. Texas Bank & Trust Co raised its stake in shares of Accenture by 0.4% in the first quarter. Texas Bank & Trust Co now owns 8,181 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $2,553,000 after purchasing an additional 35 shares in the last quarter. Norway Savings Bank lifted its holdings in shares of Accenture by 0.9% during the 2nd quarter. Norway Savings Bank now owns 4,123 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $1,232,000 after acquiring an additional 36 shares during the period. Firethorn Wealth Partners LLC grew its stake in shares of Accenture by 4.4% in the 2nd quarter. Firethorn Wealth Partners LLC now owns 854 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $255,000 after purchasing an additional 36 shares during the period. Finally, Delta Financial Group Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of Accenture by 1.4% during the first quarter. Delta Financial Group Inc. now owns 2,645 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $812,000 after acquiring an additional 37 shares during the period. 75.14% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Get Accenture alerts:

Accenture Trading Down 0.5%

Shares of NYSE ACN opened at $247.91 on Friday. Accenture PLC has a fifty-two week low of $229.40 and a fifty-two week high of $398.35. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.16, a current ratio of 1.42 and a quick ratio of 1.42. The firm has a market capitalization of $163.24 billion, a P/E ratio of 20.40, a P/E/G ratio of 2.16 and a beta of 1.28. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $244.98 and its 200 day simple moving average is $269.51.

Accenture Increases Dividend

Accenture ( NYSE:ACN Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, September 25th. The information technology services provider reported $3.03 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.98 by $0.05. Accenture had a return on equity of 26.45% and a net margin of 11.02%.The business had revenue of $17.60 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $17.34 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $2.66 earnings per share. The firms quarterly revenue was up 7.3% compared to the same quarter last year. Accenture has set its FY 2026 guidance at 13.190-13.570 EPS. Q1 2026 guidance at EPS. On average, analysts predict that Accenture PLC will post 12.73 EPS for the current year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, November 14th. Shareholders of record on Friday, October 10th were paid a $1.63 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, October 10th. This is a boost from Accentures previous quarterly dividend of $1.48. This represents a $6.52 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.6%. Accentures payout ratio is currently 53.66%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several brokerages have weighed in on ACN. Susquehanna decreased their price objective on shares of Accenture from $330.00 to $270.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, September 18th. Dbs Bank upgraded Accenture from a hold rating to a moderate buy rating in a research report on Monday, October 27th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft lowered their target price on Accenture from $260.00 to $235.00 and set a hold rating for the company in a research note on Friday, September 26th. Evercore ISI set a $280.00 price objective on shares of Accenture in a research report on Thursday, September 25th. Finally, Robert W. Baird reduced their target price on shares of Accenture from $350.00 to $330.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, September 26th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, fifteen have issued a Buy rating, eleven have issued a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Accenture currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $294.25.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on Accenture

Insider Activity at Accenture

In related news, CEO Julie Spellman Sweet sold 5,917 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Wednesday, November 5th. The shares were sold at an average price of $246.62, for a total value of $1,459,250.54. Following the sale, the chief executive officer directly owned 8,599 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,120,685.38. The trade was a 40.76% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, insider Manish Sharma sold 6,902 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, October 22nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $250.01, for a total value of $1,725,569.02. Following the transaction, the insider owned 1,860 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $465,018.60. This trade represents a 78.77% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. Insiders sold a total of 33,319 shares of company stock worth $8,335,225 in the last quarter. Corporate insiders own 0.02% of the companys stock.

Accenture Profile

(Free Report)

Accenture plc, a professional services company, provides strategy and consulting, industry X, song, and technology and operation services worldwide. The company offers application services, including agile transformation, DevOps, application modernization, enterprise architecture, software and quality engineering, data management; intelligent automation comprising robotic process automation, natural language processing, and virtual agents; and application management services, as well as software engineering services; strategy and consulting services; data and analytics strategy, data discovery and augmentation, data management and beyond, data democratization, and industrialized solutions comprising turnkey analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) solutions; metaverse; and sustainability services.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding ACN? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Accenture PLC (NYSE:ACN  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Accenture Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Accenture and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Norges Bank bought a new stake in Welltower Inc. (NYSE:WELL  Free Report) in the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund bought 31,897,184 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock, valued at approximately $4,903,554,000. Welltower accounts for about 0.6% of Norges Banks investment portfolio, making the stock its 20th biggest holding.

Other hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Quadrature Capital Ltd grew its stake in shares of Welltower by 197.1% during the 2nd quarter. Quadrature Capital Ltd now owns 46,843 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $7,200,000 after buying an additional 31,078 shares during the period. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. boosted its holdings in Welltower by 115.8% in the second quarter. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. now owns 84,911 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $13,053,000 after acquiring an additional 45,555 shares during the last quarter. Groupama Asset Managment grew its position in Welltower by 8.6% during the second quarter. Groupama Asset Managment now owns 2,079,070 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $319,615,000 after acquiring an additional 163,969 shares during the period. State Board of Administration of Florida Retirement System increased its stake in Welltower by 2.3% during the second quarter. State Board of Administration of Florida Retirement System now owns 593,712 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $91,271,000 after acquiring an additional 13,415 shares during the last quarter. Finally, DLD Asset Management LP acquired a new position in shares of Welltower during the second quarter worth about $13,521,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 94.80% of the companys stock.

Get Welltower alerts:

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of equities research analysts have recently issued reports on WELL shares. Raymond James Financial reiterated a strong-buy rating on shares of Welltower in a research note on Tuesday, September 2nd. Morgan Stanley upped their price target on Welltower from $170.00 to $200.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Thursday, November 20th. KeyCorp lifted their price objective on shares of Welltower from $150.00 to $200.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Tuesday, September 23rd. Cantor Fitzgerald boosted their price target on Welltower from $195.00 to $200.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Tuesday, October 28th. Finally, Wall Street Zen raised shares of Welltower from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, November 22nd. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eleven have assigned a Buy rating, one has given a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $193.93.

Welltower Price Performance

Shares of NYSE WELL opened at $206.33 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.43, a current ratio of 5.47 and a quick ratio of 4.19. The firm has a market capitalization of $141.61 billion, a PE ratio of 142.30, a P/E/G ratio of 1.93 and a beta of 0.92. Welltower Inc. has a 1-year low of $123.11 and a 1-year high of $207.01. The businesss fifty day moving average price is $182.01 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $166.70.

Welltower (NYSE:WELL  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Monday, October 27th. The real estate investment trust reported $1.34 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.30 by $0.04. Welltower had a net margin of 9.69% and a return on equity of 2.71%. The business had revenue of $2.69 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.70 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $1.11 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was up 30.7% on a year-over-year basis. Welltower has set its FY 2025 guidance at 5.240-5.300 EPS. On average, research analysts expect that Welltower Inc. will post 4.88 EPS for the current year.

Welltower Dividend Announcement

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, November 20th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, November 11th were paid a $0.74 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Monday, November 10th. This represents a $2.96 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.4%. Welltowers dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 204.14%.

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.

Featured Articles

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).

Receive News & Ratings for Welltower Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Welltower and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
WealthTrust Axiom LLC grew its holdings in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO  Free Report) by 105.0% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 18,595 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 9,526 shares during the quarter. WealthTrust Axiom LLCs holdings in Novo Nordisk A/S were worth $1,283,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other large investors also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Stone House Investment Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S during the 1st quarter valued at $30,000. NewSquare Capital LLC boosted its position in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S by 174.1% in the second quarter. NewSquare Capital LLC now owns 444 shares of the companys stock worth $31,000 after buying an additional 282 shares during the period. Disciplina Capital Management LLC lifted its position in Novo Nordisk A/S by 162.3% during the 1st quarter. Disciplina Capital Management LLC now owns 480 shares of the companys stock worth $33,000 after acquiring an additional 297 shares in the last quarter. Dagco Inc. acquired a new stake in Novo Nordisk A/S in the first quarter valued at approximately $35,000. Finally, Mid American Wealth Advisory Group Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S during the second quarter valued at approximately $37,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 11.54% of the companys stock.

Get Novo Nordisk A/S alerts:

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several brokerages have recently weighed in on NVO. Weiss Ratings upgraded shares of Novo Nordisk A/S from a sell (d+) rating to a hold (c-) rating in a research note on Monday. BMO Capital Markets dropped their target price on Novo Nordisk A/S from $50.00 to $46.00 and set a market perform rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday. Wall Street Zen downgraded Novo Nordisk A/S from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, August 2nd. Zacks Research upgraded Novo Nordisk A/S from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, September 29th. Finally, Hsbc Global Res downgraded Novo Nordisk A/S from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Monday. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, five have given a Buy rating, twelve 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 target price of $57.40.

Novo Nordisk A/S Stock Up 3.6%

NVO stock opened at $48.75 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.52, a current ratio of 0.78 and a quick ratio of 0.56. Novo Nordisk A/S has a 1-year low of $43.08 and a 1-year high of $112.52. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of $53.05 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $59.86. The firm has a market cap of $217.67 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.39, a PEG ratio of 2.33 and a beta of 0.65.

Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, November 5th. The company reported $1.02 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.77 by $0.25. Novo Nordisk A/S had a net margin of 35.60% and a return on equity of 78.64%. The company had revenue of $11.79 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $11.98 billion. Novo Nordisk A/S has set its FY 2025 guidance at EPS. Research analysts predict that Novo Nordisk A/S will post 3.84 EPS for the current year.

Novo Nordisk A/S Profile

(Free Report)

Novo Nordisk A/S, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the research and development, manufacture, and distribution of pharmaceutical products in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, North America, and internationally. It operates in two segments, Diabetes and Obesity Care, and Rare Disease.

Read More

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding NVO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Novo Nordisk A/S Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Novo Nordisk A/S and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Swiss National Bank trimmed its position in OneMain Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:OMF  Free Report) by 1.3% in the second quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 228,100 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 3,100 shares during the period. Swiss National Banks holdings in OneMain were worth $13,002,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of OMF. Pallas Capital Advisors LLC bought a new stake in shares of OneMain in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $350,000. Invesco Ltd. boosted its holdings in OneMain by 16.4% in the first quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 335,097 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $16,380,000 after purchasing an additional 47,099 shares during the period. Virtu Financial LLC bought a new stake in OneMain during the first quarter valued at $515,000. Cooperman Leon G raised its holdings in shares of OneMain by 187.7% during the first quarter. Cooperman Leon G now owns 889,000 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $43,454,000 after purchasing an additional 580,000 shares during the period. Finally, Cetera Investment Advisers lifted its position in shares of OneMain by 46.6% in the 1st quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 45,293 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $2,214,000 after buying an additional 14,404 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 85.82% of the companys stock.

Get OneMain alerts:

OneMain Trading Up 0.9%

Shares of NYSE:OMF opened at $61.88 on Friday. The firms 50 day moving average is $57.81 and its two-hundred day moving average is $57.05. The firm has a market capitalization of $7.29 billion, a P/E ratio of 11.17, a PEG ratio of 0.45 and a beta of 1.37. OneMain Holdings, Inc. has a 52 week low of $38.00 and a 52 week high of $63.24.

OneMain Increases Dividend

OneMain ( NYSE:OMF Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Friday, October 31st. The financial services provider reported $1.90 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.58 by $0.32. OneMain had a return on equity of 20.65% and a net margin of 12.63%.The business had revenue of $747.00 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.24 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $1.31 EPS. Analysts predict that OneMain Holdings, Inc. will post 6.46 EPS for the current year.

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, November 14th. Stockholders of record on Monday, November 10th were issued a dividend of $1.05 per share. This represents a $4.20 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 6.8%. This is a positive change from OneMains previous quarterly dividend of $1.04. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, November 10th. OneMains dividend payout ratio is 71.19%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

OMF has been the subject of a number of recent research reports. Wells Fargo & Company began coverage on shares of OneMain in a research report on Monday, August 25th. They set an equal weight rating for the company. Citizens Jmp decreased their target price on OneMain from $70.00 to $68.00 and set a market outperform rating for the company in a research note on Monday. JMP Securities set a $68.00 target price on OneMain in a report on Monday. Weiss Ratings reissued a buy (b-) rating on shares of OneMain in a report on Wednesday. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their price objective on OneMain from $57.00 to $59.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Monday, November 3rd. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, seven have assigned a Buy rating and four have issued a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, OneMain presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $62.63.

View Our Latest Analysis on OMF

Insider Transactions at OneMain

In other OneMain news, CEO Douglas H. Shulman sold 35,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $59.54, for a total transaction of $2,083,900.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer owned 231,600 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $13,789,464. This trade represents a 13.13% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, COO Micah R. Conrad sold 5,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Friday, November 7th. The stock was sold at an average price of $59.20, for a total transaction of $296,000.00. Following the sale, the chief operating officer owned 88,221 shares in the company, valued at $5,222,683.20. This trade represents a 5.36% decrease in their ownership of the stock. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. 0.40% of the stock is owned by insiders.

About OneMain

(Free Report)

OneMain Holdings, Inc, a financial service holding company, engages in the consumer finance and insurance businesses in the United States. It originates, underwrites, and services personal loans secured by automobiles, other titled collateral, or unsecured. The company also offers credit cards; optional credit insurance products, including life, disability, and involuntary unemployment insurance; optional non-credit insurance; guaranteed asset protection coverage as a waiver product or insurance; and membership plans.

Read More

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding OMF? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for OneMain Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:OMF  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for OneMain Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for OneMain and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Perimeter Solutions, SA (NYSE:PRM  Get Free Report)s stock price reached a new 52-week high on Wednesday . The company traded as high as $27.76 and last traded at $27.80, with a volume of 168300 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at $27.36.

Analyst Ratings Changes

PRM has been the topic of several recent analyst reports. Morgan Stanley restated an overweight rating and issued a $27.00 target price on shares of Perimeter Solutions in a report on Friday, October 17th. UBS Group upped their price target on shares of Perimeter Solutions from $21.00 to $25.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, September 30th. Zacks Research raised shares of Perimeter Solutions from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Friday, October 24th. Finally, Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c-) rating on shares of Perimeter Solutions in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, two have given a Buy rating and one has assigned a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Buy and a consensus price target of $26.00.

Get Perimeter Solutions alerts:

Read Our Latest Report on Perimeter Solutions

Perimeter Solutions Price Performance

The company has a market cap of $4.11 billion, a PE ratio of 66.15 and a beta of 1.98. The business has a 50 day moving average of $23.48 and a 200 day moving average of $18.79. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.61, a current ratio of 2.22 and a quick ratio of 1.72.

Perimeter Solutions (NYSE:PRM  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 30th. The company reported $0.82 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.68 by $0.14. Perimeter Solutions had a net margin of 12.26% and a return on equity of 17.33%. The business had revenue of $315.44 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $238.27 million. As a group, research analysts predict that Perimeter Solutions, SA will post 0.71 EPS for the current year.

Insider Buying and Selling

In other Perimeter Solutions news, insider Jeffrey Emery sold 300,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, September 4th. The shares were sold at an average price of $22.28, for a total value of $6,684,000.00. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, Director Vivek Raj sold 25,000 shares of Perimeter Solutions stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, September 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $22.45, for a total value of $561,250.00. Following the sale, the director directly owned 121,701 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,732,187.45. The trade was a 17.04% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Insiders sold a total of 365,000 shares of company stock valued at $8,127,250 over the last three months. Corporate insiders own 10.00% of the companys stock.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Perimeter Solutions

Several hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Victory Capital Management Inc. raised its holdings in Perimeter Solutions by 73.9% in the first quarter. Victory Capital Management Inc. now owns 133,869 shares of the companys stock worth $1,348,000 after purchasing an additional 56,867 shares in the last quarter. Y Intercept Hong Kong Ltd purchased a new stake in shares of Perimeter Solutions in the 1st quarter worth about $128,000. Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH bought a new position in shares of Perimeter Solutions in the 1st quarter worth about $160,000. XTX Topco Ltd lifted its position in Perimeter Solutions by 254.4% during the 1st quarter. XTX Topco Ltd now owns 110,363 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,111,000 after acquiring an additional 79,222 shares during the period. Finally, US Bancorp DE boosted its stake in Perimeter Solutions by 737.1% during the first quarter. US Bancorp DE now owns 23,890 shares of the companys stock worth $241,000 after acquiring an additional 21,036 shares in the last quarter. 89.93% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

Perimeter Solutions Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Perimeter Solutions, SA manufactures and supplies firefighting products and lubricant additives in the United States, Germany, and internationally. It operates in two segments, Fire Safety and Specialty Products. The Fire Safety segment provides fire retardants and firefighting foams, as well as specialized equipment and services for federal, state, provincial, local/municipal, and commercial customers.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Perimeter Solutions Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Perimeter Solutions and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Intech Investment Management LLC trimmed its stake in Piedmont Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE:PDM  Free Report) by 32.3% during the second quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The fund owned 80,621 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after selling 38,382 shares during the period. Intech Investment Management LLCs holdings in Piedmont Realty Trust were worth $588,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the stock. Wilsey Asset Management Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of Piedmont Realty Trust by 2.6% during the second quarter. Wilsey Asset Management Inc. now owns 4,115,288 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $30,000,000 after purchasing an additional 103,658 shares during the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC raised its holdings in Piedmont Realty Trust by 1.4% during the 2nd quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 3,418,028 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $24,920,000 after buying an additional 46,198 shares during the period. Wellington Management Group LLP raised its holdings in Piedmont Realty Trust by 1.3% during the 1st quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 2,134,947 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $15,735,000 after buying an additional 28,088 shares during the period. Systematic Financial Management LP lifted its stake in Piedmont Realty Trust by 20.6% during the first quarter. Systematic Financial Management LP now owns 1,446,437 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $10,660,000 after buying an additional 247,171 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Cbre Investment Management Listed Real Assets LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Piedmont Realty Trust by 48.0% in the first quarter. Cbre Investment Management Listed Real Assets LLC now owns 1,222,986 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $9,013,000 after buying an additional 396,923 shares during the period. 84.48% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Get Piedmont Realty Trust alerts:

Piedmont Realty Trust Stock Performance

Shares of PDM opened at $8.77 on Friday. The company has a market capitalization of $1.09 billion, a PE ratio of -15.39 and a beta of 1.48. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.43, a quick ratio of 1.67 and a current ratio of 1.67. The companys 50 day moving average price is $8.41 and its 200 day moving average price is $7.91. Piedmont Realty Trust, Inc. has a 52 week low of $5.46 and a 52 week high of $10.02.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Piedmont Realty Trust ( NYSE:PDM Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Monday, October 27th. The real estate investment trust reported $0.35 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.34 by $0.01. Piedmont Realty Trust had a negative net margin of 12.44% and a negative return on equity of 4.51%. The company had revenue of $110.75 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $141.46 million. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $0.36 EPS. The companys revenue for the quarter was down .1% on a year-over-year basis. Piedmont Realty Trust has set its FY 2025 guidance at 1.400-1.420 EPS. Research analysts expect that Piedmont Realty Trust, Inc. will post 1.41 EPS for the current fiscal year.

A number of research firms have recently issued reports on PDM. Weiss Ratings restated a sell (d-) rating on shares of Piedmont Realty Trust in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Truist Financial boosted their target price on shares of Piedmont Realty Trust from $9.00 to $10.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Monday. Finally, Wall Street Zen upgraded Piedmont Realty Trust from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, August 23rd. One analyst has 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 MarketBeat.com, Piedmont Realty Trust presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $9.00.

Get Our Latest Report on Piedmont Realty Trust

Piedmont Realty Trust Company 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.

Featured Stories

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).

Receive News & Ratings for Piedmont Realty Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Piedmont Realty Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
PNC Financial Services Group Inc. decreased its position in Envista Holdings Corporation (NYSE:NVST  Free Report) by 19.3% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The firm owned 10,201 shares of the companys stock after selling 2,438 shares during the quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc.s holdings in Envista were worth $199,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other large investors have also made changes to their positions in NVST. Vanguard Personalized Indexing Management LLC lifted its stake in shares of Envista by 5.6% in the 2nd quarter. Vanguard Personalized Indexing Management LLC now owns 20,100 shares of the companys stock worth $393,000 after purchasing an additional 1,067 shares during the period. Parallel Advisors LLC increased its holdings in Envista by 100.1% during the second quarter. Parallel Advisors LLC now owns 2,792 shares of the companys stock valued at $55,000 after buying an additional 1,397 shares during the last quarter. New Age Alpha Advisors LLC raised its position in Envista by 7.1% in the first quarter. New Age Alpha Advisors LLC now owns 24,842 shares of the companys stock worth $429,000 after acquiring an additional 1,655 shares during the period. Sepio Capital LP raised its position in Envista by 5.8% in the first quarter. Sepio Capital LP now owns 41,040 shares of the companys stock worth $708,000 after acquiring an additional 2,240 shares during the period. Finally, Zurcher Kantonalbank Zurich Cantonalbank boosted its stake in shares of Envista by 6.3% during the 1st quarter. Zurcher Kantonalbank Zurich Cantonalbank now owns 44,709 shares of the companys stock worth $772,000 after acquiring an additional 2,652 shares during the last quarter.

Get Envista alerts:

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several equities research analysts have recently commented on NVST shares. Weiss Ratings restated a sell (d) rating on shares of Envista in a research note on Monday. Wall Street Zen upgraded Envista from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Saturday, November 1st. Zacks Research downgraded Envista from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, September 15th. Mizuho set a $19.00 price objective on Envista in a research note on Monday, November 3rd. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus set a $25.00 target price on shares of Envista in a research note on Thursday, October 30th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, four have assigned a Buy rating, eight have assigned a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Envista presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $21.33.

Envista Trading Down 0.3%

NVST stock opened at $20.99 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.46, a current ratio of 2.44 and a quick ratio of 2.08. Envista Holdings Corporation has a 1-year low of $14.22 and a 1-year high of $22.68. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $20.10 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $19.87. The company has a market capitalization of $3.45 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 65.61, a PEG ratio of 1.09 and a beta of 1.05.

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 the consensus estimate of $0.27 by $0.05. The firm had revenue of $669.90 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $639.49 million. Envista had a net margin of 2.11% and a return on equity of 4.84%. The companys quarterly revenue was up 11.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $0.12 earnings per share. Research analysts anticipate that Envista Holdings Corporation will post 1 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Envista 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.

Recommended Stories

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding NVST? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Envista Holdings Corporation (NYSE:NVST  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Envista Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Envista and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Polaris Inc. (NYSE:PII  Get Free Report) was the target of some unusual options trading activity on Friday. Stock traders acquired 81,863 call options on the stock. This is an increase of 5,065% compared to the typical volume of 1,585 call options.

Institutional Trading of Polaris

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of PII. Avantax Advisory Services Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Polaris by 15.5% during the first quarter. Avantax Advisory Services Inc. now owns 5,117 shares of the companys stock worth $209,000 after purchasing an additional 688 shares during the period. Zurcher Kantonalbank Zurich Cantonalbank grew its position in Polaris by 9.2% during the first quarter. Zurcher Kantonalbank Zurich Cantonalbank now owns 15,157 shares of the companys stock worth $621,000 after buying an additional 1,272 shares in the last quarter. XTX Topco Ltd acquired a new stake in Polaris during the first quarter worth approximately $240,000. Bayforest Capital Ltd increased its stake in Polaris by 43.1% during the 1st quarter. Bayforest Capital Ltd now owns 7,809 shares of the companys stock worth $320,000 after acquiring an additional 2,353 shares during the period. Finally, NorthRock Partners LLC acquired a new position in Polaris in the 1st quarter valued at $403,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 88.06% of the companys stock.

Get Polaris alerts:

Polaris Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE:PII traded up $0.60 during trading on Friday, reaching $66.99. 173,617 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 1,564,123. Polaris has a 12 month low of $30.92 and a 12 month high of $75.25. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $63.87 and a 200-day moving average price of $53.67. The company has a current ratio of 1.02, a quick ratio of 0.37 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.13. The firm has a market cap of $3.77 billion, a PE ratio of -25.26 and a beta of 1.09.

Polaris Dividend Announcement

Polaris ( NYSE:PII Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Monday, October 27th. The company reported $0.41 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.37 by $0.04. Polaris had a positive return on equity of 3.89% and a negative net margin of 2.17%.The business had revenue of $1.84 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.68 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $0.73 EPS. The firms quarterly revenue was up 6.9% on a year-over-year basis. Research analysts expect that Polaris will post 1.11 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 15th. Investors of record on Monday, December 1st will be paid a $0.67 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Monday, December 1st. This represents a $2.68 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.0%. Polariss dividend payout ratio is -101.13%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

PII has been the topic of several analyst reports. Wall Street Zen raised shares of Polaris from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday, August 2nd. Weiss Ratings restated a sell (d+) rating on shares of Polaris in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Zacks Research upgraded Polaris from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Wednesday, October 15th. Robert W. Baird boosted their price target on Polaris from $55.00 to $60.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Monday, October 6th. Finally, Roth Capital raised their price objective on Polaris from $54.00 to $57.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, one has issued a Buy rating, thirteen have assigned a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Polaris currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $55.25.

View Our Latest Stock Report on PII

About Polaris

(Get Free Report)

Polaris Inc designs, engineers, manufactures, and markets powersports vehicles in the United States, Canada, and internationally. It operates through three segments: Off-Road, On-Road, and Marine. The company offers off-road vehicles (ORVs), including all-terrain vehicles and side-by-side vehicles; military and commercial ORVs; snowmobiles; motorcycles; and moto-roadsters, quadricycles, and boats.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Polaris Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Polaris and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Quadrant Capital Group LLC boosted its stake in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY  Free Report) by 32.3% in the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 45,686 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after buying an additional 11,146 shares during the quarter. Quadrant Capital Group LLCs holdings in Bristol Myers Squibb were worth $2,115,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of the stock. Vanguard Group Inc. grew its stake in Bristol Myers Squibb by 1.8% in the second quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 194,925,206 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $9,023,088,000 after purchasing an additional 3,522,202 shares in the last quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb by 16.8% in the 2nd quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 70,802,680 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $3,277,456,000 after buying an additional 10,195,775 shares during the period. Geode Capital Management LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb by 1.6% in the 2nd quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 46,176,690 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $2,132,976,000 after buying an additional 723,459 shares during the period. Northern Trust Corp grew its position in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb by 5.3% during the 1st quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 25,974,504 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $1,584,185,000 after buying an additional 1,316,144 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Wellington Management Group LLP increased its stake in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb by 297.0% during 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 buying an additional 17,750,938 shares during the period. 76.41% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Get Bristol Myers Squibb alerts:

Insider Buying and Selling at Bristol Myers Squibb

In other news, EVP David V. Elkins sold 56,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction 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 sale, the executive vice president directly owned 167,379 shares of the companys stock, valued at $7,922,048.07. The trade was a 25.07% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. 0.07% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Bristol Myers Squibb Price Performance

Shares of NYSE BMY opened at $49.33 on Friday. Bristol Myers Squibb Company has a fifty-two week low of $42.52 and a fifty-two week high of $63.33. The company has a market cap of $100.43 billion, a PE ratio of 19.89, a P/E/G ratio of 2.23 and a beta of 0.33. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.54, a quick ratio of 1.11 and a current ratio of 1.21. The business has a 50-day simple moving average of $45.51 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $46.62.

Bristol Myers Squibb (NYSE:BMY  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 30th. The biopharmaceutical company reported $1.63 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.52 by $0.11. The firm had revenue of $12.22 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $11.75 billion. Bristol Myers Squibb had a net margin of 10.58% and a return on equity of 80.04%. Bristol Myers Squibbs revenue was up 2.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the firm posted $1.80 EPS. Bristol Myers Squibb has set its FY 2025 guidance at 6.400-6.600 EPS. As a group, equities analysts expect that Bristol Myers Squibb Company will post 6.74 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Bristol Myers Squibb Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, November 3rd. Stockholders of record on Friday, October 3rd were paid a dividend of $0.62 per share. This represents a $2.48 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 5.0%. The ex-dividend date was Friday, October 3rd. Bristol Myers Squibbs payout ratio is presently 83.78%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of research analysts have commented on the stock. Wall Street Zen raised shares of Bristol Myers Squibb from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Saturday, November 8th. Dbs Bank upgraded shares of Bristol Myers Squibb to a moderate buy rating in a research note on Thursday, October 2nd. Daiwa Capital Markets downgraded shares of Bristol Myers Squibb from an outperform rating to a neutral rating and set a $42.00 price objective for the company. in a research note on Tuesday, August 5th. Morgan Stanley reaffirmed a hold rating on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a research 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 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 presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $54.42.

View Our Latest Stock Report on Bristol Myers Squibb

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.

Featured Articles

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BMY? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Bristol Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Bristol Myers Squibb Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bristol Myers Squibb and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Quadrant Capital Group LLC increased its position in shares of Bank Of Montreal (NYSE:BMO  Free Report) (TSE:BMO) by 11.2% during the 2nd quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 22,807 shares of the banks stock after purchasing an additional 2,288 shares during the period. Quadrant Capital Group LLCs holdings in Bank Of Montreal were worth $2,523,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Choreo LLC increased its position in Bank Of Montreal by 21.2% during the 2nd quarter. Choreo LLC now owns 2,640 shares of the banks stock valued at $292,000 after purchasing an additional 462 shares during the period. Russell Investments Group Ltd. increased its holdings in Bank Of Montreal by 16.7% during the second quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd. now owns 303,168 shares of the banks stock valued at $33,490,000 after buying an additional 43,316 shares during the period. J.W. Cole Advisors Inc. raised its stake in Bank Of Montreal by 3.7% in the second quarter. J.W. Cole Advisors Inc. now owns 3,283 shares of the banks stock worth $363,000 after buying an additional 117 shares in the last quarter. XTX Topco Ltd lifted its holdings in Bank Of Montreal by 108.6% during the second quarter. XTX Topco Ltd now owns 51,021 shares of the banks stock worth $5,644,000 after buying an additional 26,568 shares during the period. Finally, Picton Mahoney Asset Management bought a new stake in Bank Of Montreal during the 2nd quarter valued at $79,126,000. 45.82% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Get Bank Of Montreal alerts:

Bank Of Montreal Trading Up 1.3%

NYSE:BMO opened at $125.38 on Friday. The company has a current ratio of 1.00, a quick ratio of 1.00 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.11. The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $126.02 and a 200-day simple moving average of $117.28. Bank Of Montreal has a 12 month low of $85.40 and a 12 month high of $131.36. The company has a market capitalization of $89.22 billion, a P/E ratio of 15.35, a PEG ratio of 1.28 and a beta of 1.04.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Bank Of Montreal ( NYSE:BMO Get Free Report ) (TSE:BMO) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, August 26th. The bank reported $2.33 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.12 by $0.21. Bank Of Montreal had a return on equity of 10.57% and a net margin of 11.00%.The company had revenue of $6.51 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $8.84 billion. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $2.64 EPS. The firms quarterly revenue was up 9.7% on a year-over-year basis. On average, equities research analysts anticipate that Bank Of Montreal will post 7.71 earnings per share for the current year.

BMO has been the subject of several recent research reports. Raymond James Financial initiated coverage on Bank Of Montreal in a research report on Monday. They issued a market perform rating for the company. Wall Street Zen lowered Bank Of Montreal from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research note on Sunday, November 16th. Cowen reiterated a hold rating on shares of Bank Of Montreal in a report on Wednesday, August 27th. CIBC upgraded shares of Bank Of Montreal from a neutral rating to a sector outperform rating in a report on Friday, September 5th. Finally, UBS Group reaffirmed a neutral rating on shares of Bank Of Montreal in a research report on Wednesday, August 27th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, three have issued a Buy rating and six have issued a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $163.00.

View Our Latest Report on BMO

About Bank Of Montreal

(Free Report)

Bank of Montreal provides diversified financial services primarily in North America. It operates through Canadian P&C, U.S P&C, BMO Wealth Management, and BMO Capital Markets segments. The companys personal banking products and services include deposits, mortgages, home lending, consumer credit, small business lending, credit cards, cash management, financial and investment advice, and other banking services; and commercial banking products and services comprise various of financing options and treasury and payment solutions, as well as risk management products.

Recommended Stories

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BMO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Bank Of Montreal (NYSE:BMO  Free Report) (TSE:BMO).

Receive News & Ratings for Bank Of Montreal Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bank Of Montreal and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Quadrature Capital Ltd cut its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI Hong Kong ETF (NYSEARCA:EWH  Free Report) by 13.0% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 564,759 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after selling 84,570 shares during the quarter. Quadrature Capital Ltd owned approximately 1.73% of iShares MSCI Hong Kong ETF worth $11,219,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the business. Advisors Preferred LLC purchased a new position in shares of iShares MSCI Hong Kong ETF in the 2nd quarter worth about $28,000. Harel Insurance Investments & Financial Services Ltd. raised its position in iShares MSCI Hong Kong ETF by 108.3% in the second quarter. Harel Insurance Investments & Financial Services Ltd. now owns 5,000 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $99,000 after acquiring an additional 2,600 shares during the period. Chung Wu Investment Group LLC bought a new stake in iShares MSCI Hong Kong ETF in the second quarter worth about $169,000. Hsbc Holdings PLC purchased a new position in iShares MSCI Hong Kong ETF in the first quarter valued at about $234,000. Finally, Wellington Management Group LLP bought a new position in shares of iShares MSCI Hong Kong ETF during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $275,000. 50.59% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

Get iShares MSCI Hong Kong ETF alerts:

iShares MSCI Hong Kong ETF Stock Up 0.0%

Shares of EWH stock opened at $22.16 on Friday. The firm has a market cap of $679.65 million, a P/E ratio of 14.69 and a beta of 0.46. The company has a 50 day moving average of $21.70 and a 200-day moving average of $20.79. iShares MSCI Hong Kong ETF has a 12-month low of $15.03 and a 12-month high of $23.14.

About iShares MSCI Hong Kong ETF

iShares MSCI Hong Kong Index Fund, formerly Shares MSCI Hong Kong ETF, (the Fund), is an exchange-traded fund. 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 Hong Kong market, as measured by the MSCI Hong Kong Index (the Index).

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for iShares MSCI Hong Kong ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares MSCI Hong Kong ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Rhumbline Advisers lifted its position in shares of BXP, Inc. (NYSE:BXP  Free Report) by 3.0% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 336,593 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after acquiring an additional 9,824 shares during the period. Rhumbline Advisers holdings in BXP were worth $22,710,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Several other large investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. REAP Financial Group LLC increased its stake in BXP by 193.2% in the second quarter. REAP Financial Group LLC now owns 472 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $32,000 after acquiring an additional 311 shares during the last quarter. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd acquired a new stake in shares of BXP in the 2nd quarter valued at $43,000. Rothschild Investment LLC increased its stake in shares of BXP by 67.1% in the 2nd quarter. Rothschild Investment LLC now owns 635 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $43,000 after purchasing an additional 255 shares during the last quarter. Assetmark Inc. raised its holdings in shares of BXP by 143.7% during the 2nd quarter. Assetmark Inc. now owns 1,226 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $83,000 after buying an additional 723 shares in the last quarter. Finally, CX Institutional raised its holdings in shares of BXP by 24.6% during the 2nd quarter. CX Institutional now owns 1,526 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $103,000 after buying an additional 301 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 98.72% of the companys stock.

Get BXP alerts:

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several analysts recently weighed in on BXP shares. Jefferies Financial Group raised their price objective on BXP from $79.00 to $84.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Monday, October 13th. BMO Capital Markets reduced their price target on shares of BXP from $86.00 to $84.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, September 9th. Piper Sandler lifted their price target on shares of BXP from $80.00 to $90.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Tuesday, September 9th. Truist Financial increased their price objective on shares of BXP from $71.00 to $77.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a research note on Wednesday, September 10th. Finally, Compass Point lowered shares of BXP from a buy rating to a neutral rating and set a $75.00 target price on the stock. in a research report on Wednesday, September 10th. Eight analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, nine have issued a Hold rating and two have issued a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $79.26.

BXP Stock Up 0.4%

Shares of NYSE BXP opened at $72.72 on Friday. The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $72.31 and a 200 day simple moving average of $70.56. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.26, a current ratio of 4.50 and a quick ratio of 3.76. BXP, Inc. has a 1 year low of $54.22 and a 1 year high of $84.75. The firm has a market cap of $11.52 billion, a PE ratio of -57.26, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 7.35 and a beta of 1.20.

BXP (NYSE:BXP  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, October 28th. The real estate investment trust reported $1.74 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.72 by $0.02. The firm had revenue of $871.51 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $860.88 million. BXP had a negative net margin of 5.82% and a positive return on equity of 1.35%. The companys revenue was up 1.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $1.81 EPS. BXP has set its FY 2025 guidance at 6.890-6.920 EPS. On average, research analysts forecast that BXP, Inc. will post 6.91 EPS for the current year.

BXP Cuts Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, October 31st. Investors of record on Tuesday, September 30th were given a dividend of $0.70 per share. This represents a $2.80 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.9%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, September 30th. BXPs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently -220.47%.

Insider Buying and Selling

In other BXP news, CFO Michael E. Labelle sold 13,422 shares of BXP stock in a transaction dated Friday, November 7th. The stock was sold at an average price of $72.34, for a total transaction of $970,947.48. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer directly owned 9,223 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $667,191.82. The trade was a 59.27% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. Also, EVP John J. Stroman sold 16,838 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, November 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $72.17, for a total value of $1,215,198.46. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Insiders sold a total of 34,396 shares of company stock valued at $2,486,626 in the last three months. Insiders own 1.49% of the companys stock.

BXP Profile

(Free Report)

Boston Properties, Inc (NYSE: BXP) (BXP or the Company) is the largest publicly traded developer, owner, and manager of premier workplaces in the United States, concentrated in six dynamic gateway markets  Boston, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Seattle, and Washington, DC. BXP has delivered places that power progress for our clients and communities for more than 50 years.

Read More

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BXP? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for BXP, Inc. (NYSE:BXP  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for BXP Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for BXP and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Rockefeller Capital Management L.P. lifted its holdings in shares of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:NCLH  Free Report) by 22.4% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 20,242 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 3,706 shares during the quarter. Rockefeller Capital Management L.P.s holdings in Norwegian Cruise Line were worth $411,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the company. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. increased its position in shares of Norwegian Cruise Line by 0.9% during the first quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 3,581,365 shares of the companys stock worth $67,903,000 after acquiring an additional 33,549 shares in the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its position in Norwegian Cruise Line by 1.2% in the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 53,960,561 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,023,092,000 after acquiring an additional 653,279 shares in the last quarter. LBP AM SA lifted its position in Norwegian Cruise Line by 138.1% in the 2nd quarter. LBP AM SA now owns 452,917 shares of the companys stock valued at $9,185,000 after acquiring an additional 262,714 shares in the last quarter. Hussman Strategic Advisors Inc. acquired a new position in Norwegian Cruise Line in the 2nd quarter worth $3,407,000. Finally, Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria S.A. increased its holdings in Norwegian Cruise Line by 35.3% during the 1st quarter. Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria S.A. now owns 55,477 shares of the companys stock worth $1,045,000 after purchasing an additional 14,486 shares in the last quarter. 69.58% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Get Norwegian Cruise Line alerts:

Norwegian Cruise Line Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE NCLH opened at $18.36 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 8.05, a quick ratio of 0.16 and a current ratio of 0.18. The stock has a 50 day moving average price of $21.81 and a 200 day moving average price of $21.96. The stock has a market capitalization of $8.36 billion, a PE ratio of 12.66, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.71 and a beta of 2.22. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. has a 52 week low of $14.21 and a 52 week high of $29.29.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Norwegian Cruise Line ( NYSE:NCLH Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, November 4th. The company reported $1.20 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.17 by $0.03. Norwegian Cruise Line had a return on equity of 59.88% and a net margin of 7.52%.The company had revenue of $2.94 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.03 billion. Norwegian Cruise Line has set its Q4 2025 guidance at 0.270-0.270 EPS. FY 2025 guidance at 2.100-2.100 EPS. Analysts predict that Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. will post 1.48 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

NCLH has been the topic of a number of research reports. Truist Financial boosted their price target on Norwegian Cruise Line from $27.00 to $31.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Friday, September 19th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. dropped their target price on Norwegian Cruise Line from $43.00 to $40.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, November 5th. Zacks Research downgraded Norwegian Cruise Line from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Monday, November 10th. Wells Fargo & Company assumed coverage on shares of Norwegian Cruise Line in a research note on Tuesday, November 18th. They set an overweight rating and a $30.00 price target for the company. Finally, Mizuho lifted their price objective on shares of Norwegian Cruise Line from $26.00 to $29.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Friday, August 1st. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, twelve have assigned a Buy rating and eight have assigned a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Norwegian Cruise Line has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $28.37.

Get Our Latest Analysis on Norwegian Cruise Line

Insider Transactions at Norwegian Cruise Line

In other news, insider Jason Montague bought 13,400 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, November 6th. The shares were bought at an average cost of $18.81 per share, with a total value of $252,054.00. Following the acquisition, the insider owned 13,400 shares in the company, valued at $252,054. This trade represents a  increase in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. Also, Director Zillah Byng-Thorne bought 29,008 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, November 6th. The stock was purchased at an average price of $18.11 per share, with a total value of $525,334.88. Following the completion of the purchase, the director directly owned 66,017 shares in the company, valued at $1,195,567.87. The trade was a 78.38% increase in their position. The disclosure for this purchase is available in the SEC filing. Over the last quarter, insiders have acquired 90,029 shares of company stock valued at $1,663,575. 0.41% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Norwegian Cruise Line Profile

(Free Report)

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., together with its subsidiaries, operates as a cruise company in North America, Europe, the Asia-Pacific, and internationally. The company operates through the Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises brands. It offers itineraries ranging from three days to a 180-days calling on various ports, including Scandinavia, Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, the Greek Isles, Alaska, Canada and New England, Hawaii, Asia, Tahiti and the South Pacific, Australia and New Zealand, Africa, India, South America, the Panama Canal, and the Caribbean.

See Also

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding NCLH? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:NCLH  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Norwegian Cruise Line Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Norwegian Cruise Line and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Russell Investments Group Ltd. lifted its holdings in Canadian Natural Resources Limited (NYSE:CNQ  Free Report) (TSE:CNQ) by 7.7% in the second quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 2,053,060 shares of the oil and gas producers stock after purchasing an additional 146,465 shares during the period. Russell Investments Group Ltd. owned approximately 0.10% of Canadian Natural Resources worth $64,447,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other large investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in CNQ. Ameritas Advisory Services LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Canadian Natural Resources in the second quarter valued at $27,000. Addison Advisors LLC increased its holdings in Canadian Natural Resources by 309.1% during the 2nd quarter. Addison Advisors LLC now owns 896 shares of the oil and gas producers stock worth $28,000 after purchasing an additional 677 shares during the period. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. increased its holdings in Canadian Natural Resources by 47.3% during the 1st quarter. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. now owns 1,644 shares of the oil and gas producers stock worth $51,000 after purchasing an additional 528 shares during the period. Adirondack Trust Co. raised its position in Canadian Natural Resources by 317.1% in the 2nd quarter. Adirondack Trust Co. now owns 1,710 shares of the oil and gas producers stock valued at $54,000 after purchasing an additional 1,300 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Bruce G. Allen Investments LLC boosted its stake in shares of Canadian Natural Resources by 116.7% in the 2nd quarter. Bruce G. Allen Investments LLC now owns 1,788 shares of the oil and gas producers stock valued at $56,000 after buying an additional 963 shares during the period. 74.03% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Get Canadian Natural Resources alerts:

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of research firms recently weighed in on CNQ. Scotiabank restated an outperform rating on shares of Canadian Natural Resources in a research note on Thursday, October 9th. Zacks Research raised shares of Canadian Natural Resources from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, August 26th. Raymond James Financial restated an outperform rating on shares of Canadian Natural Resources in a report on Friday, August 8th. Wells Fargo & Company upgraded shares of Canadian Natural Resources to a hold rating in a research note on Thursday, October 16th. Finally, TD Securities reissued a buy rating on shares of Canadian Natural Resources in a report on Tuesday, September 30th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, five have issued a Buy rating and five have issued a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $62.00.

Canadian Natural Resources Stock Up 0.3%

Shares of NYSE:CNQ opened at $33.34 on Friday. The company has a market capitalization of $69.46 billion, a PE ratio of 11.82 and a beta of 0.96. The company has a current ratio of 0.85, a quick ratio of 0.54 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.38. Canadian Natural Resources Limited has a twelve month low of $24.65 and a twelve month high of $34.97. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $32.07 and a 200-day simple moving average of $31.63.

Canadian Natural Resources (NYSE:CNQ  Get Free Report) (TSE:CNQ) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, November 6th. The oil and gas producer reported $0.62 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.54 by $0.08. Canadian Natural Resources had a net margin of 19.00% and a return on equity of 19.67%. The firm had revenue of $6.79 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $6.81 billion. During the same period last year, the firm posted $0.97 EPS. On average, equities analysts predict that Canadian Natural Resources Limited will post 2.45 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Canadian Natural Resources Increases Dividend

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, January 6th. Stockholders of record on Friday, December 12th will be issued a $0.5875 dividend. This represents a $2.35 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 7.0%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, December 12th. This is an increase from Canadian Natural Resourcess previous quarterly dividend of $0.43. Canadian Natural Resourcess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 73.89%.

Canadian Natural Resources Company Profile

(Free Report)

Canadian Natural Resources Limited acquires, explores for, develops, produces, markets, and sells crude oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids (NGLs). The company offers light and medium crude oil, primary heavy crude oil, Pelican Lake heavy crude oil, bitumen (thermal oil), and synthetic crude oil (SCO).

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Canadian Natural Resources Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Canadian Natural Resources and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Russell Investments Group Ltd. lessened its holdings in shares of Reinsurance Group of America, Incorporated (NYSE:RGA  Free Report) by 1.8% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 272,454 shares of the insurance providers stock after selling 4,877 shares during the quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd. owned approximately 0.41% of Reinsurance Group of America worth $54,043,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in RGA. Cordatus Wealth Management LLC increased its stake in shares of Reinsurance Group of America by 3.1% during the 1st quarter. Cordatus Wealth Management LLC now owns 1,681 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $331,000 after purchasing an additional 50 shares during the last quarter. Richard W. Paul & Associates LLC boosted its holdings in Reinsurance Group of America by 3.7% in the second quarter. Richard W. Paul & Associates LLC now owns 1,523 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $302,000 after purchasing an additional 54 shares in the last quarter. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. increased its position in Reinsurance Group of America by 17.6% during the first quarter. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. now owns 388 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $76,000 after buying an additional 58 shares during the last quarter. Oakworth Capital Inc. raised its holdings in Reinsurance Group of America by 32.4% during the second quarter. Oakworth Capital Inc. now owns 245 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $49,000 after buying an additional 60 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Paulson Wealth Management Inc. raised its holdings in Reinsurance Group of America by 4.5% during the second quarter. Paulson Wealth Management Inc. now owns 1,569 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $311,000 after buying an additional 67 shares in the last quarter. 95.11% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Get Reinsurance Group of America alerts:

Reinsurance Group of America Stock Up 0.5%

Shares of RGA stock opened at $190.89 on Friday. Reinsurance Group of America, Incorporated has a 12 month low of $159.25 and a 12 month high of $233.16. The company has a quick ratio of 0.16, a current ratio of 0.16 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.47. The firm has a market cap of $12.54 billion, a PE ratio of 16.57 and a beta of 0.62. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $189.73 and a 200-day moving average of $193.51.

Reinsurance Group of America Announces Dividend

Reinsurance Group of America ( NYSE:RGA Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 30th. The insurance provider reported $6.37 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $5.80 by $0.57. The business had revenue of $6.20 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $6.02 billion. Reinsurance Group of America had a net margin of 3.54% and a return on equity of 12.56%. Reinsurance Group of Americas quarterly revenue was up 9.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $6.13 earnings per share. On average, equities analysts predict that Reinsurance Group of America, Incorporated will post 22.9 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, November 25th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, November 11th were issued a dividend of $0.93 per share. The ex-dividend date was Monday, November 10th. This represents a $3.72 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.9%. Reinsurance Group of Americas payout ratio is presently 28.62%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

RGA has been the topic of a number of analyst reports. Morgan Stanley lowered their price objective on Reinsurance Group of America from $210.00 to $195.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a report on Monday, August 18th. Wells Fargo & Company decreased their target price on 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 lowered shares of Reinsurance Group of America from a market perform rating to an underperform rating in a research report on Friday, October 17th. Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c+) rating on shares of Reinsurance Group of America in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods decreased their price objective on shares of Reinsurance Group of America from $255.00 to $240.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Monday, November 3rd. Seven equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, three have issued a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Reinsurance Group of America presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $239.89.

Get Our Latest Analysis on RGA

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.

See Also

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding RGA? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Reinsurance Group of America, Incorporated (NYSE:RGA  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Reinsurance Group of America Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Reinsurance Group of America and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Sabine Royalty Trust (NYSE:SBR  Get Free Report) and Pioneer Oil & Gas (OTCMKTS:POGS  Get Free Report) are both small-cap energy companies, but which is the superior stock? We will compare the two companies based on the strength of their analyst recommendations, profitability, earnings, dividends, valuation, risk and institutional ownership.

Analyst Recommendations

This is a breakdown of current recommendations for Sabine Royalty Trust and Pioneer Oil & Gas, as provided by MarketBeat.

Get Sabine Royalty Trust alerts:

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Sabine Royalty Trust 0 1 0 0 2.00 Pioneer Oil & Gas 0 0 0 0 0.00

Profitability

This table compares Sabine Royalty Trust and Pioneer Oil & Gas net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Sabine Royalty Trust 94.85% 866.81% 819.46% Pioneer Oil & Gas N/A N/A N/A

Volatility and Risk

Institutional and Insider Ownership

Sabine Royalty Trust has a beta of 0.25, indicating that its stock price is 75% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Pioneer Oil & Gas has a beta of 0.71, indicating that its stock price is 29% less volatile than the S&P 500.

15.8% of Sabine Royalty Trust shares are held by institutional investors. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that large money managers, endowments and hedge funds believe a company is poised for long-term growth.

Valuation and Earnings

This table compares Sabine Royalty Trust and Pioneer Oil & Gass top-line revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Sabine Royalty Trust $82.92 million 13.63 $79.64 million $5.43 14.27 Pioneer Oil & Gas $220,000.00 1.78 -$140,000.00 N/A N/A

Sabine Royalty Trust has higher revenue and earnings than Pioneer Oil & Gas.

Summary

Sabine Royalty Trust beats Pioneer Oil & Gas on 8 of the 9 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Sabine Royalty Trust

(Get Free Report)

Sabine Royalty Trust holds royalty and mineral interests in various producing oil and gas properties in the United States. Its royalty and mineral interests include landowner's royalties, overriding royalty interests, minerals, production payments, and other similar non-participatory interest in certain producing and proved undeveloped oil and gas properties located in Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. Sabine Royalty Trust was founded in 1982 and is based in Dallas, Texas.

About Pioneer Oil & Gas

(Get Free Report)

Pioneer Oil and Gas engages in acquiring, developing, producing, and selling oil and gas properties to companies located in the continental United States. The company was founded in 1980 and is based in South Jordan, Utah.

Receive News & Ratings for Sabine Royalty Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Sabine Royalty Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Scotia Capital Inc. increased its stake in iShares 0-3 Month Treasury Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:SGOV  Free Report) by 26.4% in the second quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The institutional investor owned 275,629 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 57,492 shares during the period. Scotia Capital Inc.s holdings in iShares 0-3 Month Treasury Bond ETF were worth $27,753,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Weaver Consulting Group raised its stake in shares of iShares 0-3 Month Treasury Bond ETF by 2.7% in the second quarter. Weaver Consulting Group now owns 3,880 shares of the companys stock valued at $391,000 after acquiring an additional 102 shares during the period. IFG Advisory LLC grew its holdings in iShares 0-3 Month Treasury Bond ETF by 2.7% during the 1st quarter. IFG Advisory LLC now owns 4,004 shares of the companys stock valued at $403,000 after purchasing an additional 105 shares during the last quarter. 4WEALTH Advisors Inc. raised its position in iShares 0-3 Month Treasury Bond ETF by 0.6% in the 2nd quarter. 4WEALTH Advisors Inc. now owns 18,957 shares of the companys stock worth $1,909,000 after purchasing an additional 107 shares during the period. Rossby Financial LCC lifted its stake in iShares 0-3 Month Treasury Bond ETF by 15.2% in the second quarter. Rossby Financial LCC now owns 1,158 shares of the companys stock worth $117,000 after purchasing an additional 153 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Chicago Partners Investment Group LLC boosted its position in shares of iShares 0-3 Month Treasury Bond ETF by 3.5% during the second quarter. Chicago Partners Investment Group LLC now owns 5,114 shares of the companys stock valued at $515,000 after buying an additional 174 shares during the period.

Get iShares 0-3 Month Treasury Bond ETF alerts:

iShares 0-3 Month Treasury Bond ETF Stock Up 0.0%

SGOV opened at $100.64 on Friday. The stocks 50 day moving average price is $100.56 and its 200-day moving average price is $100.55. iShares 0-3 Month Treasury Bond ETF has a one year low of $100.15 and a one year high of $100.74.

iShares 0-3 Month Treasury Bond ETF Profile

Read More

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding SGOV? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares 0-3 Month Treasury Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:SGOV  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for iShares 0-3 Month Treasury Bond ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares 0-3 Month Treasury Bond ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of Skeena Resources Limited (NYSE:SKE  Get Free Report) were up 7.4% during mid-day trading on Friday . The company traded as high as $20.91 and last traded at $21.0190. Approximately 171,923 shares traded hands during trading, a decline of 67% from the average daily volume of 516,608 shares. The stock had previously closed at $19.57.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of research analysts have recently commented on the stock. Desjardins raised shares of Skeena Resources to a moderate buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Weiss Ratings reissued a sell (d-) rating on shares of Skeena Resources in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. TD Securities assumed coverage on shares of Skeena Resources in a research note on Tuesday, August 12th. They set a buy rating on the stock. Raymond James Financial reiterated a strong-buy rating on shares of Skeena Resources in a report on Friday, October 10th. Finally, Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Skeena Resources from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, November 15th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, four have issued a Buy rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Skeena Resources has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy.

Get Skeena Resources alerts:

View Our Latest Stock Analysis on Skeena Resources

Skeena Resources Stock Performance

The firm has a market cap of $2.53 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -19.14 and a beta of 1.25. The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $17.83 and a 200-day simple moving average of $16.07.

Skeena Resources (NYSE:SKE  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, November 13th. The company reported ($0.09) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of ($0.06) by ($0.03). Analysts expect that Skeena Resources Limited will post -0.98 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. grew its holdings in shares of Skeena Resources by 431.1% during the third quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 2,390 shares of the companys stock valued at $44,000 after buying an additional 1,940 shares during the last quarter. Northwest & Ethical Investments L.P. bought a new position in shares of Skeena Resources during the first quarter valued at approximately $77,000. Cubist Systematic Strategies LLC purchased a new stake in Skeena Resources in the first quarter worth about $89,000. Banque Cantonale Vaudoise acquired a new stake in shares of Skeena Resources in the 1st quarter worth $91,000. Finally, Advisory Services Network LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Skeena Resources in the third quarter worth $99,000. 45.15% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

About Skeena Resources

(Get Free Report)

Skeena Resources Limited explores for and develops mineral properties in Canada. The company explores for gold, silver, copper, and other precious metal deposits. It holds 100% interests in the Snip gold mine comprising one mining lease and nine mineral tenures that covers an area of approximately 4,724 hectares; and the Eskay Creek gold mine that consists of eight mineral leases, two surface leases, and various unpatented mining claims comprising 7,666 hectares located in British Columbia, Canada.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Skeena Resources Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Skeena Resources and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
State Board of Administration of Florida Retirement System raised its holdings in Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (NYSE:AJG  Free Report) by 2.8% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 228,964 shares of the financial services providers stock after acquiring an additional 6,230 shares during the quarter. State Board of Administration of Florida Retirement Systems holdings in Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. were worth $73,296,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of AJG. J.Safra Asset Management Corp raised its position in Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. by 209.1% during the 2nd quarter. J.Safra Asset Management Corp now owns 102 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $32,000 after purchasing an additional 69 shares during the last quarter. AlphaQuest LLC bought a new stake in Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. in the first quarter valued at approximately $33,000. Saudi Central Bank bought a new position in Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. during the 1st quarter worth approximately $34,000. SouthState Corp acquired a new position in shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. in the 1st quarter worth approximately $39,000. Finally, Steph & Co. acquired a new stake in shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. during the second quarter worth $40,000. Institutional investors own 85.53% of the companys stock.

Get Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. alerts:

Insider Activity at Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.

In related news, CAO Richard C. Cary sold 6,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, November 18th. The stock was sold at an average price of $261.00, for a total transaction of $1,566,000.00. Following the sale, the chief accounting officer owned 50,668 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $13,224,348. This represents a 10.59% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, CFO Douglas K. Howell sold 8,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated 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 of the companys stock, valued at approximately $30,186,742.58. This represents a 7.35% decrease in their position. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Insiders sold a total of 37,105 shares of company stock worth $10,796,353 in the last 90 days. 1.60% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Stock Performance

NYSE AJG opened at $248.72 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.52, a current ratio of 1.36 and a quick ratio of 1.36. The firm has a market cap of $63.87 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 35.33 and a beta of 0.71. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. has a 1 year low of $239.47 and a 1 year high of $351.23. The company has a fifty day moving average price of $276.90 and a 200-day moving average price of $299.89.

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (NYSE:AJG  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The financial services provider reported $2.32 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $2.51 by ($0.19). The business had revenue of $3.33 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $3.34 billion. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. had a net margin of 14.54% and a return on equity of 13.17%. The businesss revenue was up 20.2% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $2.26 earnings per share. As a group, equities research analysts predict that Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. will post 11.54 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Announces Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 19th. Stockholders of record on Friday, December 5th will be issued a $0.65 dividend. This represents a $2.60 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.0%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, December 5th. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 38.86%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several research analysts have recently weighed in on AJG shares. Cantor Fitzgerald raised Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, August 13th. Weiss Ratings downgraded shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. from a buy (b-) rating to a hold (c+) rating in a research report on Tuesday. Wolfe Research started coverage on shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. in a research note on Thursday, November 20th. They set an outperform rating and a $291.00 target price on the stock. UBS Group lifted their price target on shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. from $322.00 to $329.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Friday, September 19th. Finally, Citigroup dropped their price objective on shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. from $330.00 to $277.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Monday, November 3rd. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eight have issued a Buy rating, eight have assigned a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $316.33.

Read Our Latest Stock Report on AJG

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Profile

(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.

Recommended Stories

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).

Receive News & Ratings for Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Swiss National Bank bought a new position in shares of JBT Marel Corporation (NYSE:JBTM  Free Report) during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor bought 99,200 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $11,930,000.

Several other hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in JBTM. Geode Capital Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of JBT Marel in the second quarter valued at approximately $141,026,000. Vaughan Nelson Investment Management L.P. acquired a new position in JBT Marel in the 2nd quarter valued at $83,397,000. Artisan Partners Limited Partnership bought a new stake in shares of JBT Marel during the 2nd quarter valued at $73,593,000. Congress Asset Management Co. acquired a new stake in shares of JBT Marel during the 2nd quarter worth $53,515,000. Finally, TimesSquare Capital Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of JBT Marel during the 2nd quarter worth $40,689,000. 98.92% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Get JBT Marel alerts:

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several research firms recently weighed in on JBTM. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c-) rating on shares of JBT Marel in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Robert W. Baird set a $169.00 target price on shares of JBT Marel in a research report on Friday, October 3rd. Finally, William Blair raised shares of JBT Marel from a market perform rating to an outperform rating in a report on Wednesday, August 6th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has given a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, JBT Marel has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $156.00.

JBT Marel Stock Down 1.0%

JBTM stock opened at $141.21 on Friday. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $136.58 and a 200-day moving average price of $132.03. JBT Marel Corporation has a 12 month low of $90.08 and a 12 month high of $148.76. The company has a current ratio of 0.93, a quick ratio of 0.53 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.35. The stock has a market capitalization of $7.34 billion, a P/E ratio of -61.66, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.72 and a beta of 1.18.

JBT Marel (NYSE:JBTM  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Monday, November 3rd. The company reported $1.94 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.51 by $0.43. JBT Marel had a negative net margin of 5.08% and a positive return on equity of 7.96%. The business had revenue of $1 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $936.75 million. JBT Marels 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. As a group, equities research analysts anticipate that JBT Marel Corporation will post 5.21 EPS for the current fiscal year.

JBT Marel 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.

Featured Articles

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding JBTM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for JBT Marel Corporation (NYSE:JBTM  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for JBT Marel Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for JBT Marel and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Swiss National Bank decreased its position in shares of Federal Signal Corporation (NYSE:FSS  Free Report) by 1.4% during the 2nd quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The fund owned 116,700 shares of the conglomerates stock after selling 1,700 shares during the period. Swiss National Banks holdings in Federal Signal were worth $12,419,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of FSS. Physician Wealth Advisors Inc. raised its position in Federal Signal by 47.0% in the second quarter. Physician Wealth Advisors Inc. now owns 291 shares of the conglomerates stock valued at $31,000 after purchasing an additional 93 shares during the last quarter. TD Waterhouse Canada Inc. acquired a new position in shares of Federal Signal in the second quarter valued at approximately $37,000. Signaturefd LLC raised its holdings in Federal Signal by 46.3% in the 2nd quarter. Signaturefd LLC now owns 660 shares of the conglomerates stock valued at $70,000 after buying an additional 209 shares during the last quarter. Harbor Investment Advisory LLC boosted its position in Federal Signal by 29.3% during the 2nd quarter. Harbor Investment Advisory LLC now owns 851 shares of the conglomerates stock worth $91,000 after buying an additional 193 shares during the period. Finally, Farther Finance Advisors LLC grew its holdings in Federal Signal by 280.9% during the 2nd quarter. Farther Finance Advisors LLC now owns 1,135 shares of the conglomerates stock worth $121,000 after acquiring an additional 837 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 92.73% of the companys stock.

Get Federal Signal alerts:

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several research firms have recently issued reports on FSS. DA Davidson raised their price target on shares of Federal Signal from $100.00 to $112.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, July 31st. Zacks Research lowered Federal Signal from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Monday, September 29th. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a buy (b-) rating on shares of Federal Signal in a report on Wednesday, November 19th. Wall Street Zen raised Federal Signal from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Saturday, August 2nd. Finally, Raymond James Financial raised their price objective on Federal Signal from $120.00 to $145.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, July 31st. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and four have issued a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Federal Signal presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $123.00.

Federal Signal Stock Performance

Shares of FSS opened at $113.13 on Friday. The company has a current ratio of 2.60, a quick ratio of 1.25 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.20. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $117.10 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $113.41. Federal Signal Corporation has a 12 month low of $66.47 and a 12 month high of $132.89. The stock has a market capitalization of $6.88 billion, a P/E ratio of 31.51, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.31 and a beta of 1.28.

Federal Signal (NYSE:FSS  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 30th. The conglomerate reported $1.14 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.07 by $0.07. Federal Signal had a return on equity of 18.91% and a net margin of 11.22%.The firm had revenue of $555.00 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $545.19 million. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $0.87 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was up 17.0% on a year-over-year basis. Federal Signal has set its FY 2025 guidance at 4.090-4.170 EPS. As a group, analysts predict that Federal Signal Corporation will post 3.34 EPS for the current year.

Federal Signal Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 2nd. Shareholders of record on Friday, November 14th will be given a $0.14 dividend. This represents a $0.56 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.5%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 14th. Federal Signals dividend payout ratio is presently 14.62%.

Insider Buying and Selling

In other Federal Signal news, COO Mark Weber sold 51,187 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Thursday, November 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of $111.56, for a total value of $5,710,421.72. Following the completion of the sale, the chief operating officer owned 73,874 shares in the company, valued at approximately $8,241,383.44. This trade represents a 40.93% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Company insiders own 3.30% of the companys stock.

Federal Signal Company Profile

(Free Report)

Federal Signal Corp. engages in the design and manufacture of products and integrated solutions for municipal, governmental, industrial, and commercial customers. It operates through the Environmental Solutions Group and Safety and Security Systems Group segments. The Environment Solutions Group segment is involved in the manufacture and supply of street sweeper vehicles, sewer cleaners, vacuum loader trucks, hydro-excavation trucks, and water blasting equipment.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding FSS? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Federal Signal Corporation (NYSE:FSS  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Federal Signal Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Federal Signal and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
TD Waterhouse Canada Inc. lifted its position in shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM) by 2.3% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 979,408 shares of the financial services providers stock after acquiring an additional 22,044 shares during the period. JPMorgan Chase & Co. comprises approximately 2.0% of TD Waterhouse Canada Inc.s holdings, making the stock its 6th largest holding. TD Waterhouse Canada Inc.s holdings in JPMorgan Chase & Co. were worth $284,227,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other large investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Kingstone Capital Partners Texas LLC lifted its position in shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. by 609,867.5% in the 2nd quarter. Kingstone Capital Partners Texas LLC now owns 72,897,211 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $21,133,630,000 after buying an additional 72,885,260 shares during the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC grew its position in shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. by 0.5% during the 2nd quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 61,129,271 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $17,646,506,000 after buying an additional 300,160 shares during the last quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. raised its stake in JPMorgan Chase & Co. by 2.7% during the first 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 holdings in JPMorgan Chase & Co. by 5.1% in the first 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 last quarter. Finally, Nuveen LLC bought a new position in JPMorgan Chase & Co. in the first quarter worth about $3,972,807,000. 71.55% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

Get JPMorgan Chase & Co. alerts:

JPMorgan Chase & Co. Stock Up 1.7%

Shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. stock opened at $308.09 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.26, a current ratio of 0.86 and a quick ratio of 0.88. JPMorgan Chase & Co. has a 1-year low of $202.16 and a 1-year high of $322.25. The businesss fifty day moving average price is $306.91 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $292.67. The company has a market capitalization of $838.71 billion, a P/E ratio of 15.26, a PEG ratio of 1.84 and a beta of 1.14.

JPMorgan Chase & Co. Increases Dividend

JPMorgan Chase & Co. ( NYSE:JPM Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, October 14th. The financial services provider reported $5.07 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates 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 company 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 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was up 8.8% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, research analysts forecast that JPMorgan Chase & Co. will post 18.1 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, October 31st. Shareholders of record on Monday, October 6th were given a dividend of $1.50 per share. This is a positive change from JPMorgan Chase & Co.s previous quarterly dividend of $1.40. The ex-dividend date was Monday, October 6th. This represents a $6.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.9%. JPMorgan Chase & Co.s payout ratio is presently 29.72%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several equities analysts have recently commented on the company. Morgan Stanley upped their target price on JPMorgan Chase & Co. from $336.00 to $338.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Wednesday, October 15th. The Goldman Sachs Group restated a buy rating and set a $366.00 price objective on shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. in a research note on Tuesday, October 14th. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a buy (b+) rating on shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. in a research report on Tuesday. Loop Capital set a $310.00 price target on shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. in a report on Thursday, October 23rd. Finally, Citigroup upped their price target on shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. from $275.00 to $325.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Wednesday, September 24th. Fifteen research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, nine have given a Hold rating and three have assigned a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $326.38.

Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on JPMorgan Chase & Co.

Insider Transactions at JPMorgan Chase & Co.

In other news, insider Robin Leopold sold 966 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, November 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $311.92, for a total value of $301,314.72. Following the completion of the sale, the insider directly owned 58,479 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $18,240,769.68. This represents a 1.63% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Also, Director Linda Bammann sold 9,500 shares of the 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 completion of the transaction, the director owned 82,207 shares of the companys stock, valued at $24,492,753.58. This trade represents a 10.36% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. 0.47% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

JPMorgan Chase & Co. Company Profile

(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.

Featured Articles

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding JPM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for JPMorgan Chase & Co. Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for JPMorgan Chase & Co. and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Film screening held in Georgia to mark 80th anniversary of China's victory over Japanese aggression

Xinhua) 10:59, November 28, 2025

TBILISI, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- A screening of the Chinese film "The Hundred Regiments Campaign" and a themed photo exhibition were held here on Wednesday to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

"The Hundred Regiments Campaign" depicts the arduous struggle of the Chinese people under the leadership of the Communist Party of China in their fight against Japan during World War II.

Beka Natsvlishvili, director of the China-Southeast Asia Research Center, noted that the film helps reverse the World War II historical narrative, long dominated in Georgian society by the United States and Europe, and restores China's outstanding contribution to the global fight against fascism.

At the event, Chinese Ambassador to Georgia Zhou Qian noted that this year also marks the 80th anniversary of Taiwan's restoration to China and the founding of the United Nations.

"Hosting this themed event aims to use these historically significant images and films to look back at that great struggle concerning the future and destiny of mankind," Zhou said. He emphasized the need to "remember history, honor martyrs, cherish peace, and create the future."

Natsvlishvili stated that the Georgian people, alongside the Chinese people, made significant sacrifices during the World Anti-Fascist War or World War II.

"Revisiting this history 80 years later helps all nations better cherish peace and look toward the future," Natsvlishvili said.

The event was organized by the Chinese Embassy in Georgia, the Georgian think tank China-Southeast Asia Research Center, and Grigol Robakidze University.

Karlo Sikharulidze, Director of the Global Affairs Directorate of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia, attended the event alongside approximately dozens of representatives from Georgian universities, think tanks, media outlets, and the overseas Chinese community.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Tejara Capital Ltd reduced its stake in shares of Denison Mine Corp (NYSEAMERICAN:DNN  Free Report) (TSE:DML) by 56.4% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 338,286 shares of the basic materials companys stock after selling 436,814 shares during the period. Tejara Capital Ltds holdings in Denison Mine were worth $616,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Providence Capital Advisors LLC bought a new stake in shares of Denison Mine during the first quarter worth $30,000. WealthShield Partners LLC boosted its stake in Denison Mine by 50.0% in the 2nd quarter. WealthShield Partners LLC now owns 18,000 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $33,000 after purchasing an additional 6,000 shares during the period. R Squared Ltd bought a new position in Denison Mine during the 2nd quarter worth about $39,000. Advisory Alpha LLC bought a new position in Denison Mine during the 2nd quarter worth about $40,000. Finally, HFG Wealth Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Denison Mine in the 2nd quarter valued at about $45,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 36.74% of the companys stock.

Get Denison Mine alerts:

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several research analysts have recently weighed in on the company. Raymond James Financial reaffirmed an outperform rating on shares of Denison Mine in a research report on Friday, October 10th. Desjardins upgraded Denison Mine to a moderate buy rating in a research note on Monday, August 18th. Scotiabank reaffirmed an outperform rating on shares of Denison Mine in a research report on Thursday, August 7th. TD Securities reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of Denison Mine in a research note on Monday, August 11th. Finally, National Bankshares reiterated an outperform rating on shares of Denison Mine in a report on Monday, August 18th. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Denison Mine presently has a consensus rating of Buy.

Denison Mine Stock Up 3.6%

DNN stock opened at $2.56 on Friday. The company has a market cap of $2.30 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -42.67 and a beta of 1.32. Denison Mine Corp has a twelve month low of $1.08 and a twelve month high of $3.42. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $2.75 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $2.23.

Denison Mine Profile

(Free Report)

Denison Mines Corp. engages in the acquisition, exploration, and development of uranium bearing properties in Canada. Its flagship project is the Wheeler River uranium project covering an area of approximately 300,000 hectares located in the Athabasca Basin region in northern Saskatchewan. The company was formerly known as International Uranium Corporation and changed its name to Denison Mines Corp.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Denison Mine Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Denison Mine and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
American Airlines Group, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Joby Aviation, and Air Lease are the five Airline stocks to watch today, according to MarketBeats stock screener tool. Airline stocks are shares of publicly traded companies that operate commercial passenger and cargo air transport, representing ownership stakes in those airlines. They tend to be cyclical and relatively volatile, because airline profits are highly sensitive to travel demand, fuel prices, labor costs, and regulatory or safety developments. These companies had the highest dollar trading volume of any Airline stocks within the last several days.

Get alerts:

American Airlines Group (AAL)

American Airlines Group Inc., through its subsidiaries, operates as a network air carrier. The company provides scheduled air transportation services for passengers and cargo through its hubs in Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Phoenix, and Washington, D.C., as well as through partner gateways in London, Doha, Madrid, Seattle/Tacoma, Sydney, and Tokyo.

Delta Air Lines (DAL)

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.

Read Our Latest Research Report on DAL

United Airlines (UAL)

United Airlines Holdings, Inc., through its subsidiaries, provides air transportation services in North America, Asia, Europe, Africa, the Pacific, the Middle East, and Latin America. The company transports people and cargo through its mainline and regional fleets. It also offers catering, ground handling, flight academy, and maintenance services for third parties.

Read Our Latest Research Report on UAL

Joby Aviation (JOBY)

Joby Aviation, Inc., a vertically integrated air mobility company, engages in building an electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft optimized to deliver air transportation as a service. The company intends to build an aerial ridesharing service, as well as developing an application-based platform that will enable consumers to book rides.

Read Our Latest Research Report on JOBY

Air Lease (AL)

Air Lease Corporation, an aircraft leasing company, engages in the purchase and leasing of commercial jet aircraft to airlines worldwide. It sells aircraft from its fleet to third parties, including other leasing companies, financial services companies, airlines, and other investors. The company provides fleet management services to investors and owners of aircraft portfolios.

Read Our Latest Research Report on AL

Featured Articles
Vinva Investment Management Ltd boosted its holdings in Duke Energy Corporation (NYSE:DUK  Free Report) by 59.3% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 36,695 shares of the utilities providers stock after purchasing an additional 13,666 shares during the quarter. Vinva Investment Management Ltds holdings in Duke Energy were worth $4,290,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the business. WealthShield Partners LLC boosted its stake in shares of Duke Energy by 0.3% in the second quarter. WealthShield Partners LLC now owns 25,453 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $3,003,000 after buying an additional 80 shares during the period. Private Wealth Asset Management LLC grew its holdings in shares of Duke Energy by 6.4% during the 2nd quarter. Private Wealth Asset Management LLC now owns 1,408 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $166,000 after purchasing an additional 85 shares in the last quarter. Roberts Glore & Co. Inc. IL grew its holdings in shares of Duke Energy by 1.8% during the 1st quarter. Roberts Glore & Co. Inc. IL now owns 4,930 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $601,000 after purchasing an additional 86 shares in the last quarter. Sentry LLC increased its position in shares of Duke Energy by 4.9% in the second quarter. Sentry LLC now owns 1,831 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $216,000 after purchasing an additional 86 shares during the period. Finally, Centurion Wealth Management LLC raised its stake in Duke Energy by 3.0% in the second quarter. Centurion Wealth Management LLC now owns 2,991 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $353,000 after purchasing an additional 87 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 65.31% of the companys stock.

Get Duke Energy alerts:

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several equities analysts have commented on DUK shares. Barclays raised their target price on shares of Duke Energy from $131.00 to $135.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Tuesday, October 14th. Morgan Stanley restated an underperform rating on shares of Duke Energy in a research note on Thursday, November 20th. Evercore ISI assumed coverage on Duke Energy in a report on Monday, October 6th. They set an outperform rating and a $143.00 price target for the company. UBS Group upped their price objective on Duke Energy from $131.00 to $137.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Friday, October 10th. Finally, TD Cowen began coverage on Duke Energy in a research report on Thursday, October 16th. They issued a buy rating and a $143.00 target price on the stock. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eleven have issued a Buy rating, six have issued a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $138.44.

Duke Energy Trading Up 1.3%

DUK opened at $123.52 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.55, a current ratio of 0.66 and a quick ratio of 0.42. Duke Energy Corporation has a fifty-two week low of $105.20 and a fifty-two week high of $130.03. The companys 50 day moving average price is $124.52 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $121.02. The firm has a market capitalization of $96.06 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 20.08, a PEG ratio of 3.05 and a beta of 0.45.

Duke Energy (NYSE:DUK  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, November 6th. The utilities provider reported $1.81 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.75 by $0.06. The company had revenue of $8.54 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $8.51 billion. Duke Energy had a net margin of 15.51% and a return on equity of 9.85%. Duke Energys revenue for the quarter was up 4.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $1.62 earnings per share. As a group, research analysts predict that Duke Energy Corporation will post 6.33 earnings per share for the current year.

Duke Energy Dividend Announcement

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 16th. Stockholders 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 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.4%. Duke Energys dividend payout ratio is presently 66.98%.

Insider Activity

In related news, EVP Robert Alexander Glenn sold 8,200 shares of Duke Energy stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, November 19th. The stock was sold at an average price of $123.80, for a total value of $1,015,160.00. Following the transaction, the executive vice president directly owned 11,367 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,407,234.60. The trade was a 41.91% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. 0.14% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Duke Energy Profile

(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.

Featured Articles

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding DUK? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Duke Energy Corporation (NYSE:DUK  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Duke Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Duke Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Vinva Investment Management Ltd increased its position in shares of Trane Technologies plc (NYSE:TT  Free Report) by 58.4% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 18,767 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 6,917 shares during the period. Vinva Investment Management Ltds holdings in Trane Technologies were worth $8,113,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Nuveen LLC acquired a new position in Trane Technologies in the 1st quarter worth about $877,468,000. Wellington Management Group LLP grew its stake in shares of Trane Technologies by 245.1% in the 1st quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 2,144,405 shares of the companys stock valued at $722,493,000 after buying an additional 1,522,933 shares in the last quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised its position in Trane Technologies by 9.8% during the first quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 15,722,530 shares of the companys stock valued at $5,297,235,000 after acquiring an additional 1,408,421 shares in the last quarter. Nordea Investment Management AB lifted its stake in Trane Technologies by 89.1% in the second quarter. Nordea Investment Management AB now owns 2,455,734 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,066,845,000 after acquiring an additional 1,157,405 shares during the last quarter. Finally, ABN AMRO Bank N.V. bought a new stake in Trane Technologies in the second quarter worth approximately $291,206,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 82.97% of the companys stock.

Get Trane Technologies alerts:

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of research analysts have recently weighed in on the stock. Northcoast Research downgraded shares of Trane Technologies from a buy rating to a neutral rating in a report on Friday, August 1st. Hsbc Global Res downgraded shares of Trane Technologies from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, July 31st. Wells Fargo & Company raised their target price on Trane Technologies from $410.00 to $415.00 and gave the company an underweight rating in a report on Monday, October 6th. Weiss Ratings reiterated a buy (b) rating on shares of Trane Technologies in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Morgan Stanley increased their price objective on Trane Technologies from $445.00 to $520.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Thursday, July 31st. Seven equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, nine have assigned a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $470.07.

Insider Transactions at Trane Technologies

In related news, CAO Elizabeth A. Elwell sold 600 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Thursday, October 30th. The stock was sold at an average price of $440.00, for a total transaction of $264,000.00. Following the transaction, the chief accounting officer directly owned 7,148 shares in the company, valued at $3,145,120. The trade was a 7.74% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this link. Also, CEO David S. Regnery sold 22,497 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, September 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $410.00, for a total value of $9,223,770.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer directly owned 123,713 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $50,722,330. This trade represents a 15.39% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. 0.14% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Trane Technologies Trading Up 0.4%

Shares of Trane Technologies stock opened at $420.30 on Friday. Trane Technologies plc has a 1 year low of $298.15 and a 1 year high of $476.18. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $420.70 and its 200-day simple moving average is $425.85. The company has a market cap of $93.20 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 33.33, a PEG ratio of 2.66 and a beta of 1.16. The company has a current ratio of 1.10, a quick ratio of 0.76 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.50.

Trane Technologies (NYSE:TT  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results 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 net margin of 13.76% and a return on equity of 36.61%. The firm had revenue of $5.74 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $5.80 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $3.37 EPS. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 5.5% compared to the same quarter last year. Trane Technologies has set its FY 2025 guidance at 12.950-13.050 EPS. As a group, sell-side analysts expect that Trane Technologies plc will post 12.83 EPS for the current year.

Trane Technologies Announces Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 31st. Investors of record on Friday, December 5th will be paid a $0.94 dividend. This represents a $3.76 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.9%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, December 5th. Trane Technologiess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 28.92%.

About Trane Technologies

(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.

Recommended Stories

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding TT? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Trane Technologies plc (NYSE:TT  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Trane Technologies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Trane Technologies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Virtue Capital Management LLC cut its holdings in Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM  Free Report) by 17.7% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 9,181 shares of the companys stock after selling 1,968 shares during the quarter. Virtue Capital Management LLCs holdings in Philip Morris International were worth $1,672,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in the business. PFS Partners LLC increased its position in Philip Morris International by 24.8% in the 2nd quarter. PFS Partners LLC now owns 292 shares of the companys stock valued at $53,000 after acquiring an additional 58 shares in the last quarter. Uncommon Cents Investing LLC grew its stake in shares of Philip Morris International by 1.1% during the second quarter. Uncommon Cents Investing LLC now owns 5,666 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,032,000 after purchasing an additional 61 shares during the last quarter. NFP Retirement Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Philip Morris International by 2.5% in the first quarter. NFP Retirement Inc. now owns 2,589 shares of the companys stock valued at $411,000 after purchasing an additional 62 shares in the last quarter. Cranbrook Wealth Management LLC increased its holdings in shares of Philip Morris International by 6.5% in the second quarter. Cranbrook Wealth Management LLC now owns 1,014 shares of the companys stock valued at $185,000 after purchasing an additional 62 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Renasant Bank raised its position in Philip Morris International by 3.3% in the 1st quarter. Renasant Bank now owns 1,994 shares of the companys stock worth $317,000 after purchasing an additional 63 shares during the last quarter. 78.63% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Get Philip Morris International alerts:

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several research firms have recently commented on PM. Stifel Nicolaus set a $180.00 target price on Philip Morris International in a research note on Tuesday, October 21st. Citigroup reiterated a buy rating on shares of Philip Morris International in a report on Thursday, September 4th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. dropped their price objective on Philip Morris International from $190.00 to $185.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Wednesday. Morgan Stanley set a $175.00 target price on shares of Philip Morris International and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Finally, KGI Securities started coverage on shares of Philip Morris International in a research note on Monday, August 4th. They issued an outperform rating on the stock. Twelve research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has issued 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 $189.00.

Philip Morris International Trading Down 0.5%

NYSE:PM opened at $156.66 on Friday. Philip Morris International Inc. has a 1-year low of $116.12 and a 1-year high of $186.69. The firm has a market capitalization of $243.87 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 28.38, a PEG ratio of 1.84 and a beta of 0.43. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $155.80 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $166.86.

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 (EPS) for the quarter. The company had revenue of $8.12 billion during the quarter. Philip Morris International had a negative return on equity of 122.14% and a net margin of 9.33%. Sell-side analysts predict that Philip Morris International Inc. will post 7.14 earnings per share for the current year.

Philip Morris International Increases Dividend

The company 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 boost 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%.

Philip Morris International 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.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Philip Morris International Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Philip Morris International and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
WealthTrust Axiom LLC lowered its position in shares of UMH Properties, Inc. (NYSE:UMH  Free Report) by 6.9% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The fund owned 114,730 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after selling 8,550 shares during the quarter. WealthTrust Axiom LLCs holdings in UMH Properties were worth $1,926,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. Aberdeen Group plc increased its stake in shares of UMH Properties by 3.6% during the first quarter. Aberdeen Group plc now owns 19,132 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $358,000 after acquiring an additional 668 shares during the period. Avantax Advisory Services Inc. boosted its holdings in UMH Properties by 2.6% in the 1st quarter. Avantax Advisory Services Inc. now owns 26,263 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $491,000 after purchasing an additional 671 shares in the last quarter. Deutsche Bank AG boosted its holdings in UMH Properties by 0.8% in the 1st quarter. Deutsche Bank AG now owns 82,605 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $1,545,000 after purchasing an additional 682 shares in the last quarter. Keybank National Association OH increased its position in UMH Properties by 3.1% during the 2nd quarter. Keybank National Association OH now owns 24,981 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $419,000 after purchasing an additional 762 shares during the period. Finally, Inspire Investing LLC raised its stake in shares of UMH Properties by 4.7% during the 1st quarter. Inspire Investing LLC now owns 22,379 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $418,000 after buying an additional 1,007 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 75.40% of the companys stock.

Get UMH Properties alerts:

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of research firms have commented on UMH. Cantor Fitzgerald began coverage on UMH Properties in a report on Wednesday, October 1st. They issued a neutral rating and a $15.00 target price for the company. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c) rating on shares of UMH Properties in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, B. Riley lowered their target price on shares of UMH Properties from $19.00 to $18.50 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Monday. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and three have given a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $18.50.

UMH Properties Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE UMH opened at $15.24 on Friday. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $14.71 and a 200-day simple moving average of $15.84. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.08, a current ratio of 8.56 and a quick ratio of 8.56. The company has a market cap of $1.30 billion, a PE ratio of 108.82, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.49 and a beta of 1.06. UMH Properties, Inc. has a 12 month low of $13.95 and a 12 month high of $20.03.

UMH Properties (NYSE:UMH  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Monday, November 3rd. The real estate investment trust reported $0.25 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, hitting analysts consensus estimates of $0.25. UMH Properties had a net margin of 12.18% and a return on equity of 5.19%. The firm had revenue of $66.92 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $68.70 million. On average, equities analysts anticipate that UMH Properties, Inc. will post 0.93 earnings per share for the current year.

UMH Properties Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 15th. Stockholders of record on Monday, November 17th will be paid a dividend of $0.225 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, November 17th. This represents a $0.90 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 5.9%. UMH Propertiess dividend payout ratio is currently 1,125.00%.

Insider Transactions at UMH Properties

In related news, CEO Samuel A. Landy sold 22,100 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, September 26th. The shares were sold at an average price of $14.76, for a total value of $326,196.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer directly owned 1,074,568 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $15,860,623.68. This trade represents a 2.02% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Also, Director Michael P. Landy bought 10,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, September 29th. The stock was bought at an average price of $14.46 per share, with a total value of $144,600.00. Following the completion of the acquisition, the director owned 362,052 shares of the companys stock, valued at $5,235,271.92. This trade represents a 2.84% increase in their position. Additional details regarding this purchase are available in the official SEC disclosure. In the last three months, insiders have purchased 12,743 shares of company stock worth $184,937 and have sold 54,100 shares worth $792,496. Insiders own 8.77% of the companys stock.

UMH Properties Profile

(Free Report)

UMH Properties, Inc, which was organized in 1968, is a public equity REIT that owns and operates 135 manufactured home communities containing approximately 25,800 developed homesites. These communities are located in New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Indiana, Michigan, Maryland, Alabama, South Carolina and Georgia.

Featured Articles

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding UMH? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for UMH Properties, Inc. (NYSE:UMH  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for UMH Properties Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for UMH Properties and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Swiss National Bank decreased its holdings in shares of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE:WH  Free Report) by 1.9% in the 2nd quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The firm owned 148,000 shares of the companys stock after selling 2,800 shares during the quarter. Swiss National Banks holdings in Wyndham Hotels & Resorts were worth $12,019,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Personal CFO Solutions LLC lifted its position in shares of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts by 3.6% during the 2nd quarter. Personal CFO Solutions LLC now owns 4,558 shares of the companys stock worth $370,000 after buying an additional 157 shares during the last quarter. Dynamic Technology Lab Private Ltd purchased a new position in shares of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts in the 2nd quarter valued at $239,000. Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH raised its stake in Wyndham Hotels & Resorts by 21.4% during the 2nd quarter. Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH now owns 10,555 shares of the companys stock worth $857,000 after acquiring an additional 1,858 shares in the last quarter. Intech Investment Management LLC purchased a new stake in Wyndham Hotels & Resorts in the second quarter valued at $366,000. Finally, SG Americas Securities LLC boosted its stake in Wyndham Hotels & Resorts by 488.9% in the second quarter. SG Americas Securities LLC now owns 43,965 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,570,000 after acquiring an additional 36,500 shares in the last quarter. 93.46% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Get Wyndham Hotels & Resorts alerts:

Insider Activity at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts

In other news, General Counsel Paul F. Cash sold 36,379 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, November 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $71.66, for a total value of $2,606,919.14. Following the completion of the sale, the general counsel directly owned 39,123 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,803,554.18. This trade represents a 48.18% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. 2.46% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of analysts have recently commented on the company. Truist Financial set a $98.00 target price on Wyndham Hotels & Resorts in a research report on Friday, October 24th. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c) rating on shares of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts in a research report on Monday. Robert W. Baird decreased their price objective on Wyndham Hotels & Resorts from $93.00 to $89.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, October 28th. Susquehanna lowered their target price on shares of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts from $95.00 to $80.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, October 27th. Finally, Zacks Research downgraded shares of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a research report on Thursday, November 6th. Nine analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, three have issued a Hold rating and one has assigned 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 price target of $96.77.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on Wyndham Hotels & Resorts

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Stock Up 0.0%

Shares of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts stock opened at $73.93 on Friday. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has a one year low of $69.21 and a one year high of $113.07. The company has a market cap of $5.59 billion, a P/E ratio of 16.99, a PEG ratio of 1.93 and a beta of 0.89. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 4.43, a quick ratio of 1.16 and a current ratio of 1.16. The firm has a fifty day moving average of $76.28 and a two-hundred day moving average of $82.20.

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE:WH  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, October 22nd. The company reported $1.46 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.42 by $0.04. The business had revenue of $382.00 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $406.29 million. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts had a net margin of 23.54% and a return on equity of 61.12%. The businesss revenue was down 3.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the business posted $1.39 earnings per share. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has set its FY 2025 guidance at 4.480-4.62 EPS. On average, analysts forecast that Wyndham Hotels & Resorts will post 4.79 earnings per share for the current year.

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Announces Dividend

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 30th. Stockholders of record on Monday, December 15th will be paid a dividend of $0.41 per share. This represents a $1.64 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.2%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, December 15th. Wyndham Hotels & Resortss dividend payout ratio is 37.70%.

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Company Profile

(Free Report)

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, Inc engages in the franchise and operation of hotels under the Wyndham brand. It operates through the Hotel Franchising and Hotel Management segments. The Hotel Franchising segment focuses on licensing the companys lodging brands and providing related services to third-party hotel owners and others.

Recommended Stories

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding WH? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE:WH  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Wyndham Hotels & Resorts and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
ACK Asset Management LLC decreased its position in Enersys (NYSE:ENS  Free Report) by 6.4% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 584,324 shares of the industrial products companys stock after selling 40,000 shares during the quarter. Enersys accounts for about 6.6% of ACK Asset Management LLCs investment portfolio, making the stock its 5th largest holding. ACK Asset Management LLC owned approximately 1.56% of Enersys worth $50,117,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Get Enersys alerts:

A number of other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. Victory Capital Management Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Enersys by 1.0% in the first quarter. Victory Capital Management Inc. now owns 13,463 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $1,233,000 after purchasing an additional 135 shares during the period. Johnson Investment Counsel Inc. boosted its position in Enersys by 6.7% in the 2nd quarter. Johnson Investment Counsel Inc. now owns 2,806 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $241,000 after buying an additional 176 shares during the last quarter. Assetmark Inc. boosted its position in Enersys by 3.0% in the 1st quarter. Assetmark Inc. now owns 6,566 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $601,000 after buying an additional 193 shares during the last quarter. Retirement Systems of Alabama grew its stake in shares of Enersys by 0.4% during the second quarter. Retirement Systems of Alabama now owns 48,191 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $4,133,000 after acquiring an additional 202 shares in the last quarter. Finally, US Bancorp DE increased its position in shares of Enersys by 3.6% during the first quarter. US Bancorp DE now owns 6,121 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $561,000 after acquiring an additional 211 shares during the last quarter. 94.93% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Enersys Stock Performance

ENS stock opened at $142.81 on Friday. The stocks 50 day simple moving average is $123.93 and its 200 day simple moving average is $103.89. Enersys has a 12-month low of $76.57 and a 12-month high of $144.58. The firm has a market cap of $5.27 billion, a P/E ratio of 16.30, a P/E/G ratio of 0.71 and a beta of 1.13. The company has a current ratio of 3.00, a quick ratio of 1.91 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.68.

Enersys Announces Dividend

Enersys ( NYSE:ENS Get Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, November 5th. The industrial products company reported $2.56 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.36 by $0.20. The firm had revenue of $951.30 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $890.27 million. Enersys had a net margin of 9.60% and a return on equity of 21.99%. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 7.6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $2.12 earnings per share. Enersys has set its Q3 2026 guidance at 2.710-2.81 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts predict that Enersys will post 9.99 EPS for the current year.

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 26th. Investors of record on Friday, December 12th will be paid a dividend of $0.2625 per share. The ex-dividend date is Friday, December 12th. This represents a $1.05 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.7%. Enersyss dividend payout ratio is 12.28%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of research analysts recently commented on ENS shares. Roth Capital reissued a buy rating and issued a $120.00 price target on shares of Enersys in a report on Tuesday, August 5th. Weiss Ratings reiterated a buy (b) rating on shares of Enersys in a research note on Thursday, October 30th. 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 research note on Monday, November 10th. Finally, Wall Street Zen raised shares of Enersys from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Saturday, November 8th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating and four have assigned a Buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Buy and an average target price of $126.00.

View Our Latest Report on ENS

Enersys Profile

(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.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Enersys Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Enersys and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Suncor Energy (TSE:SU  Free Report) (NYSE:SU) had its price objective upped by CIBC from C$65.00 to C$70.00 in a report issued on Thursday,BayStreet.CA reports.

Get Suncor Energy alerts:

Other analysts have also issued research reports about the company. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their price objective on Suncor Energy from C$59.00 to C$64.00 in a research note on Thursday, November 6th. Gerdes Energy Research increased their price target on shares of Suncor Energy from C$75.00 to C$78.00 in a research report on Monday, November 10th. ATB Capital raised their price target on shares of Suncor Energy from C$60.00 to C$62.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a report on Thursday, August 7th. Desjardins upped their price objective on shares of Suncor Energy from C$71.00 to C$73.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Monday. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company set a C$57.00 target price on shares of Suncor Energy and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Friday, October 17th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, five have assigned a Buy rating and five have given a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of C$65.46.

Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on Suncor Energy

Suncor Energy Stock Up 0.1%

Shares of TSE:SU opened at C$62.50 on Thursday. The stock has a market capitalization of C$75.08 billion, a P/E ratio of 14.57, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.15 and a beta of 0.61. The stocks 50-day moving average price is C$58.22 and its 200-day moving average price is C$55.11. The company has a current ratio of 1.59, a quick ratio of 0.83 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 33.35. Suncor Energy has a 12-month low of C$43.59 and a 12-month high of C$64.14.

Suncor Energy (TSE:SU  Get Free Report) (NYSE:SU) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, November 4th. The company reported C$1.48 earnings per share for the quarter. Suncor Energy had a return on equity of 18.10% and a net margin of 15.15%.The company had revenue of C$12.55 billion during the quarter. On average, equities analysts anticipate that Suncor Energy will post 4.4208333 earnings per share for the current year.

Suncor Energy Announces Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, September 25th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, September 25th were given a $0.57 dividend. This represents a $2.28 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.6%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, September 4th. Suncor Energys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 53.15%.

Insider Activity at Suncor Energy

In related news, insider Shelley Powell sold 30,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Thursday, September 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of C$58.06, for a total transaction of C$1,741,650.00. Following the transaction, the insider owned 27,705 shares in the company, valued at C$1,608,413.78. The trade was a 51.99% decrease in their ownership of the stock. Also, insider Adam Husain Albeldawi sold 5,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Thursday, September 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$58.44, for a total transaction of C$292,200.00. Over the last quarter, insiders sold 252,142 shares of company stock worth $15,003,939. 0.01% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

About Suncor Energy

(Get Free Report)

Suncor Energy Inc is an integrated energy company. The companys operations include oil sands development, production and upgrading, offshore oil and gas, petroleum refining in Canada and the U.S. and the companys PetroCanada retail and wholesale distribution networks. The company is developing petroleum resources while advancing the transition to a low-emissions future through investment in power, renewable fuels and hydrogen.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Suncor Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Suncor Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content.

Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist.

If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter .

Support our mission and join our community now.
Vodafone Idea Telecom Infrastructure has scaled back the size of its planned bond issuance, with the company now expected to raise around INR32 billion (US$359 million) instead of the previously targeted INR50 billion, Reuters reported, citing sources familiar with the matter.

Most of the bonds will carry 12% interest for two years, while the remainder will be issued with a 14% yield and a tenor of three years and two months. Both tranches include a call option after the first year and are backed by a guarantee from Vodafone Idea. The operator aims to complete the sale by December, with private credit funds expected to be the main buyers.

Proceeds will be used to support network expansion, the sources said.

Vodafone Idea continues to face financial pressure stemming from a 2019 Supreme Court ruling that broadened the definition of adjusted gross revenue, resulting in sizable dues to the government. The operator has struggled to clear outstanding spectrum and revenue-sharing payments, prompting the Indian government to convert debt into equity and raise its stake to 48.99%.
A partnership agreement has been announced between the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the United Nations specialised agency for digital technologies, and Senegalese regulator ARTP. The aim of this agreement is to support young women in digital development.

The agreement between the ITU and lAutorite de Regulation des Telecommunications et des Postes du Senegal (ARTP) is titled "Promoting digital commercial ecosystems integrating young women in Senegal in its phase 1". It aims to create a framework for close collaboration between the two institutions for the implementation of the project.

It was signed on the sidelines of the World Telecommunications Development Conference (CMDT-25), organized in Baku, Azerbaijan, from 17 to 28 November 2025, which certainly seems appropriate. The conference is a special platform for high-ranking officials from ITU Member States, to express their views on emerging trends and on matters of strategic importance to the development of the telecommunication and ICT sector.

The Senegalese project will, it is hoped, support young women by strengthening their participation in digital trade through targeted skills development, ecosystem support and the development of digital tools. That said, precise details are not yet available, although the ARTP website promises that a project documenting specific operational procedures and the distribution of roles and responsibilities will eventually be made available

The Director General of the ARTP, Dahirou Thiam, who was a co-signatory along with Director of the ITU Development Office Dr Cosmas Luckyson Zavazava, apparently stressed that this approach reflects the desire of the Senegalese authorities to make digital one of the engines of the national economy.
Iraqi telco Asiacell announced a slew of AI-related partnerships at this weeks MWC Doha 2025 event with Google Cloud, Cisco, Enea, Evam and Druid AI, most of which are aimed at improving the customer experience.

For starters, Asiacell said on Wednesday it has partnered with Google Cloud to deliver Google Workspace and other AI-powered collaboration tools to businesses and educational institutions across Iraq, making it the first telco in Iraq to do so.

Through the partnership, Asiacell will offer Gemini Enterprise, Google Workspace, Google Workspace for Education, and other AI-driven tools such as GoogleNotebook, designed to enable organizations to communicate and collaborate more effectively.

This collaboration with Google Cloud allows us to provide Iraqi businesses and educational institutions with reliable, secure, and future-ready productivity solutions, said Asiacell CEO Amer Sunna in a statement. Its a key milestone in our mission to accelerate Iraqs digital transformation through partnerships with the worlds leading technology providers.

Speaking of partnerships, Asiacell also said it is partnering with Cisco to deploy the vendors AI-powered Provider Connectivity Assurance (PCA) platform on its networks to enhance network intelligence and reliability.

Asiacell said Ciscos network automation and assurance platform will provide real-time, predictive insights across its connectivity and service layers, automatically detecting anomalies, diagnosing root causes, and accelerating resolution before potential problems can impact customers.

The result will be a more agile, self-optimizing network that keeps pace with the demands of digital services and the 5G evolution, said Asiacell CTIO Hassan El Chami.

Asiacell also revealed it has deployed Eneas data traffic management solution to enhance subscriber quality of experience (QoE) and optimize video content. The solution provides real-time analytics for network capacity and service optimization, enabling Asiacell to boosts speeds and carry more video content efficiently.

On the customer service front, Asiacell also formed a partnership with Druid AI under which it will use Druid AIs enterprise platform, which combines conversational and generative AI with process automation to create AI agents that provide faster, smarter, and more personalized experiences across digital channels for customers and employees in Arabic, Kurdish and English.

Asiacell also entered into a strategic partnership with real-time customer engagement specialist Evam to deliver hyper-personalized, real-time marketing across its nationwide customer base, all digital and traditional touchpoints using Evams engagement platform.
Weve all spent years juggling between laptops for work and tablets for everything in between. Yes, 2 in 1 laptops exist, but the options are quite limited and the price is often on the higher side. Now think of a device that is built to be both a laptop and a tablet. This is what Ai+ is aiming for with the Laptab. The brand, led by Madhav Sheth, is taking a fresh swing at the idea of a device that can genuinely live in both worlds. Set to launch in early 2026, the Ai+ Laptab marks the companys first step into the tablet category, and its designed to slot straight into Indias growing demand for portable productivity tools.

Survey

 Thank you for completing the survey!

Also read: Top 3 gaming laptops under Rs 80,000 from Lenovo, Acer and Asus

Ai+ to launch the Laptab in 2026

The Laptab series will come in three sizes  11 inch, 12 inch and 13 inch, giving users the freedom to pick the form factor that matches their routine. All models support both a keyboard and a stylus, hinting that Ai+ wants this device to be more than just a casual media machine. Its positioned as something that could replace that old laptop for work days while still being light enough for travel, reading or quick note taking.

Speaking about the upcoming devices, Madhav Sheth said, We are excited to introduce the Ai+ Laptab as part of our vision to provide users with an integrated digital experience across all our devices.

About the Laptab

Ai+ says the new Laptab lineup will run on its own NxtQ operating system, which includes a dedicated PC Mode for multitasking and desktop style use cases.

According to the company, the OS is built around a privacy first philosophy. That means no pre loaded bloatware, no hidden trackers and no bundled apps that try to push ads or collect behavioural data. Its an approach intended to appeal to users who want laptop-like capabilities without compromising on control over their personal information.

The devices will be sold through Flipkart as well as Ai+s retail partners across the country.

Sheth said the upcoming launch is part of the companys broader vision of creating an integrated digital experience across its portfolio. Ai+ has also hinted at deeper software continuity between devices, promising smooth handoffs and tighter synchronisation for users who rely on multiple Ai+ products in their daily routine.

With the Laptab series arriving in early 2026, Ai+ is clearly aiming to challenge established players in the tablet space. Whether it can succeed will depend on pricing and performance, but the companys ecosystem driven approach gives the new product line an interesting head start.

Also read: PlayStation India Cup 2025 finale: Finalists, date, and all you need to know


Save my User ID and Password

Some subscribers prefer to save their log-in information so they do not have to enter their User ID and Password each time they visit the site. To activate this function, check the 'Save my User ID and Password' box in the log-in section. This will save the password on the computer you're using to access the site.

Note: If you choose to use the log-out feature, you will lose your saved information. This means you will be required to log-in the next time you visit our site.
Samsung races to seal HBM4 deal with Nvidia, targets early 2026 shipments

Samsung Electronics is reportedly nearing a deal with Nvidia on 2026 HBM4 pricing, aiming to match SK Hynix's rates as the company accelerates capacity expansion and reorganizes its DRAM development teams to regain momentum in the premium AI memory market.

People familiar with the talks said Samsung is pushing to secure the same per-stack price that Nvidia recently agreed to with SK Hynix, which industry sources estimate is in the mid-US$500 range. A final decision is expected before year-end 2025.

Nvidia seeks dual supply as HBM4 demand surges

Nvidia invited Samsung to the negotiating table only a week after locking in 2026 supply with SK Hynix, according to Korean outlet Dealsite. The move underscores Nvidia's need for diversified sources of high-bandwidth memory as HBM4 consumption accelerates ahead of next-generation AI platforms.

SK Hynix's HBM4 price is believed to be around the mid-US$500 level, according to Seoul Economy News, more than 50% above its HBM3E 12-high pricing in the mid-US$300 range. The cost increase reflects higher production expenses, including a roughly 30% rise stemming from TSMC's manufacturing of the HBM4 base die.

Samsung, which previously offered lower pricing for its 12-high HBM3E and trailed SK Hynix by a significant margin, now sees no reason to discount HBM4. Industry sources said the company believes its HBM4 architecture delivers speed and efficiency advantages, giving it little incentive to undercut its rival.

Analysts expect Samsung and SK Hynix to end up supplying Nvidia at similar price levels.

Samsung eyes second-quarter 2026 shipments as capacity climbs

Samsung originally appeared on track to begin shipping HBM4 in late 2026 after final qualification. That timeline may now accelerate. People familiar with the matter said Nvidia's demand has grown faster than expected, opening the door for Samsung to begin deliveries as early as the second quarter of 2026.

If Samsung reaches the market in the second quarter rather than the second half, SK Hynix would lose its anticipated near-monopoly on Nvidia's first-half HBM4 supply. The competitive gap between the two companies could narrow from about six months to one quarter.

Samsung's ability to ship earlier will depend heavily on yield improvements. Industry sources cited by Seoul Economy News said the company's HBM4 built on 1c DRAM is producing yields of roughly 50%. The device integrates 1c DRAM on the memory die, and Samsung's 4-nanometer logic process on the base die, which offers performance advantages but also raises thermal-management challenges.

Massive 1c DRAM expansion to support HBM4

Samsung plans one of its largest DRAM expansions in years to support the HBM4 ramp. The company expects to allocate up to 150,000 wafers per month of 1c DRAM capacity to HBM4 by the end of 2026. This includes adding about 80,000 wafers of fresh 1c capacity and converting portions of older DRAM lines.

Current 1c output is about 20,000 wafers per month. Achieving the target would give Samsung sufficient volume to support Nvidia, break SK Hynix's dominance in the HBM4 cycle, and improve the economics of its most advanced DRAM node.

In a move reported by ZDNet Korea, Samsung has created a unified memory development organization and placed its HBM development team directly under the new DRAM design division. The changes consolidate engineering resources that were previously dispersed across multiple teams.

Hwang Sang-jun, head of DRAM development and a known leader in high-value DRAM and HBM programs, will oversee the revamped organization. The restructuring follows a period in which SK Hynix captured HBM leadership due to better yields and faster commercialization of HBM3 and HBM3E. Samsung is now concentrating its engineering talent to accelerate work on HBM4 and HBM4E.

Certification advances continue at Nvidia

Samsung delivered engineering sample (ES) units of HBM4 to Nvidia in September 2025. Results from that round of testing are expected this month, Seoul Economy News reported. If ES units pass, Samsung will move immediately to provide customer sample (CS) units, with final qualification targeted for early 2026.

Industry observers said qualification remains a critical variable for Samsung, but Nvidia's accelerating roadmaps and supply needs increase the likelihood of a faster production handoff once certification is complete.

Source: Dealsite and Samsung, compiled by DIGITIMES, November 2025

Article edited by Jerry Chen
Japan plans 600-kilometer quantum communication network by 2027

Following the lead of China, the European Union (EU), and South Korea, Japan has unveiled plans to build its own long-distance quantum communication network. The first phase will link the country's three major citiesTokyo, Nagoya, and Osakacovering a distance of 600 kilometers. Construction is expected to be completed by early 2027, with field testing planned later that year. The initial rollout will focus on sectors where confidentiality is critical, such as healthcare and finance, to establish a Japan-specific quantum communication standard by 2030.

Japan's quantum network will be based on Toshiba's quantum key distribution (QKD) technology and developed in partnership with IT and telecommunications giant NEC. The system will feature relay points spaced up to 150 kilometers apart and will include the backbone infrastructure as well as an operational management framework for the industry.

The 2030 target reflects concerns about the rapid advancement of quantum computing. Current encryption systems are expected to become vulnerable by that time, making stronger, theoretically unbreakable communication methods essential. While Japan has already established a small experimental network in Tokyo, it stretches less than 100 kilometersfar shorter than China's network, which exceeds 10,000 kilometers, or the EU's coordinated member-state investments.

Article edited by Jack Wu
The callous killing of an iconic stag which was found beheaded in Co Dublin has been condemned.

The headless body of the stag, which was part of the deer herd at Newbridge Demesne, Donabate, was found on Thursday morning, according to Fingal County Council.

In a statement, the council said the stag had been killed overnight by intruders who had broken into the park.

The discovery was made when staff went to feed the herd of Irish Red Deer, they said.

The stag, who was eight years old, was one of two in the herd.

Mayor of Fingal Tom OLeary described the incident as shocking.

I have visited this park area with my granddaughters who really enjoyed meeting the stag and deer, he said.

A wonderful animal to behold close up. Its truly shocking that someone would carry out this act.

I am appealing to anybody with information to contact the gardai or the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

It is illegal to kill deer without a licence and I hope that the perpetrators can be brought to justice.

Ivan Smith, foreman of Works at Newbridge House and Traditional Farm, added: We are absolutely shocked by this incident.

He was a lovely stag with a beautiful pair of antlers and was a big favourite with the public who walk through the park.

The council said the matter is currently being investigated by An Garda Siochana and the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

Anybody with information is asked to contact the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or email wildlifeenforcement@npws.gov.ie.
Enoch Burkes salary is to be paid to Wilsons Hospital School as he still owes them 15,000 euro in damages, a court has ordered.

Mr Burke appeared before the High Court via video link from Mountjoy Prison where he has been since Tuesday, after Mr Justice Brian Cregan ordered him to be jailed for repeated and flagrant breaches of court orders on November 18.

Mr Burke and his family, who are evangelical Christians from Co Mayo, are embroiled in a lengthy legal row with Wilsons Hospital School, where Mr Burke formerly worked as a teacher.

The row stems from incidents at the Co Westmeath school over a request in 2022 from the then-principal that a student be addressed by a new name and pronoun.

Since then, Mr Burke has repeatedly trespassed on school property, breaching a court order.

The court heard that although Mr Burke has been dismissed from the school on the grounds of gross misconduct, he is still being paid a teachers salary from the Department of Education and Youth, pending an appeal before the Disciplinary Appeals Panel.

In August 2023, the school was awarded damages of 15,000 euro for trespass on their grounds but, on Friday, Mr Justice Cregan said Mr Burke had not paid a single euro of this judgment.

He granted the school a garnishee order, where a debtors salary is paid directly to the person owed, on the grounds Mr Burke owes a considerable debt to the school.

Mr Justice Cregan also said he was satisfied the court has the power to confiscate vehicles which Mr Burke used to access the school, describing his actions as flagrant breaches of the court order.

However, he said as Mr Burke is currently in prison it is not necessary to sequester these vehicles at this time, but said the measure could be considered again at a future date.

The hearing at the Four Courts in Dublin was disrupted by Enoch Burkes father, Sean, and brother, Dr Isaac Burke, before it began.

Mr Burke was due to appear by video link, but technical difficulties meant his appearance was delayed.

As the delay continued, Dr Burke remonstrated with the judge saying that as Enoch Burke was not appearing in person, he had no advocate in court and no one to hand up documents.

Mr Justice Cregan told him he did not intend to allow him, or his father, to remain in court and asked them both to leave saying they had no right of audience.

Telling them: Every time you have appeared before me, you have disrupted the court.

Dr Burke began to shout that this was absolutely disgraceful, shocking and unjust behaviour.

Five uniformed gardai entered the court and two escorted Dr Burke out of the room.

Mr Burke senior then, too, began shouting, saying: Im a member of the public, I have a right to be here. This is totally unjust, this is totally wrong, this is absolutely wrong.

He, too, was led away from the court as Mr Justice Cregan rose and adjourned the hearing.

When the video link was establish Enoch Burke himself brought up the issue of his method of appearance, saying he was greatly disadvantaged by not appearing in person.

He accused the schools barrister Rosemary Mallon of underhand dealings, claiming he was originally supposed to appear in person but she had his production order changed so that he would appear by video link.

He claimed she had the ear of the court.

In response Ms Mallon said: No good deed goes unpunished.

She said she had requested Mr Burke be produced by video link out of fairness to him as there had been no production order for him and she was concerned he would not be produced.

Mr Burke claimed this was not true and said the court needs to be truthful to which Mr Justice Cregan responded: I will not take any lectures on truth-telling from you.

In his judgment, Mr Justice Cregan said Mr Burke would be released from prison if he promises not to trespass on the schools property again, saying: He does not have to accept transgenderism.

He does not have to stop protesting against transgenderism. He does not have to change his religious beliefs one iota.
Louth County Council hosted a special exhibition at the Civic Offices on Fair Street, Drogheda, recently, showcasing the final artworks and short film created as part of Le Cheile: Creating Connection through Seanfhocail, a Creative Ireland-funded community art initiative promoting integration, creativity and cross-cultural connection.

The exhibition brought together participants, artists, community partners and members of the public to celebrate unity, storytelling and the diverse people who now call County Louth home.

Over six weeks, two separate community groups, one in Drogheda, facilitated by artist Artur Oner (Signs By Oner) in partnership with Foroige, and one in Dundalk, led by Barry Finnegan (Omin) at Creative Spark, explored Irish seanfhocail (proverbs) and transformed them into collaborative artworks reflecting their shared experiences.

The Drogheda group created pieces inspired by Tus maith leath na hoibre (A good start is half the battle) and Nil bua gan dua (No pain, no gain), symbolising determination, effort and the importance of working together.

READ NEXT: WATCH: Hilarious moment Irish wedding goes viral as unexpected guest appears in church

In Dundalk, participants chose Ni neart go cur le cheile (There is strength in unity) and Bionn siulach scealach (Every journey tells a story), reflecting themes of belonging, shared journeys and the richness of community life.

A short documentary film capturing the process, created by Louth County Council, premiered at the event, alongside the display of the completed artworks.

Cllr Sean Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said: The Dundalk group chose the phrase Ni neart go cur le cheile - there is strength in unity - and it could not be more fitting.

"That message came to life through this project. People from different cultures, different paths and different experiences came together, worked together and created something truly meaningful.

"At a time when connection matters more than ever, this project has shown the very best of what community can be.

Cllr Michelle Hall, Mayor of Drogheda, said: The young people in Drogheda showed exactly what a good start is half the battle looks like.

"They embraced the project, collaborated brilliantly and produced beautiful work that reflects their creativity and resilience.

"In recent weeks, Drogheda has experienced difficult moments, but the spirit shown through Le Cheile reminds us that creativity, understanding and collaboration are powerful antidotes to division. I am incredibly proud of everyone involved.

Robert Byrnes, Integration Support Coordinator, Louth County Council, said: Le Cheile aimed to create space for people to meet, learn and share - and the response was exceptional.

"Participants brought not only their artistic ideas but their stories, languages and cultural perspectives. The result is a series of artworks that reflect unity, friendship and the value of connection. We look forward to continuing to build on this work across Louth.

David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, said: Seanfhocail is a powerful example of what happens when creativity, community and cultural understanding come together.

"I want to acknowledge the important role of our Local Authority Integration Team, whose work continues to foster inclusion, support new communities and build positive relationships across the county.

"Their collaboration with Creative Ireland, our artists, and our community partners has helped make this project such a success.

You can watch the documentary, Le Cheile: Creating Connection through Seanfhocail, on the Louth County Council YouTube page.
Sinn Fein TD Joanna Byrne has called for a zero-tolerance approach from Louth County Council and Approved Housing Bodies if their tenants are engaged in violent criminality.

Deputy Byrne made the call after the recent arson attack on the George Street IPAS centre and after a Drogheda resident was arrested in connection with a planned bomb attack on a Galway Mosque.

Deputy Byrne said The hard learned lessons from the feud must not be forgotten.

The good people of Drogheda must be protected from violent criminals living in their midst. The council and AHBs , have obligations and responsibilities, which include estate management and dealing with and responding to allegations of anti-social behaviour of all types in their units. That means removing thugs who have been arrested in connection with violent crimes.

Read also: Louth parents urged to have their say on the future of primary education

One of the people arrested in connection with the George Street arson attack had been illegally occupying a council property for years. He was given one week to quit the property several months ago, but the notice was not acted upon, and that person was still in the council property the night of the attack.

Media reports gave the address of an AHB property in Drogheda, for one of the people arrested in Laois, who planned a bomb attack on a mosque in Galway.

I have contacted Louth County Council and the AHB to express my concern on this matter, and I will continue to follow up on it until the neighbours of these people can feel secure in their own homes."
Country

United States of America US Virgin Islands United States Minor Outlying Islands Canada Mexico, United Mexican States Bahamas, Commonwealth of the Cuba, Republic of Dominican Republic Haiti, Republic of Jamaica Afghanistan Albania, People's Socialist Republic of Algeria, People's Democratic Republic of American Samoa Andorra, Principality of Angola, Republic of Anguilla Antarctica (the territory South of 60 deg S) Antigua and Barbuda Argentina, Argentine Republic Armenia Aruba Australia, Commonwealth of Austria, Republic of Azerbaijan, Republic of Bahrain, Kingdom of Bangladesh, People's Republic of Barbados Belarus Belgium, Kingdom of Belize Benin, People's Republic of Bermuda Bhutan, Kingdom of Bolivia, Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana, Republic of Bouvet Island (Bouvetoya) Brazil, Federative Republic of British Indian Ocean Territory (Chagos Archipelago) British Virgin Islands Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria, People's Republic of Burkina Faso Burundi, Republic of Cambodia, Kingdom of Cameroon, United Republic of Cape Verde, Republic of Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad, Republic of Chile, Republic of China, People's Republic of Christmas Island Cocos (Keeling) Islands Colombia, Republic of Comoros, Union of the Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, People's Republic of Cook Islands Costa Rica, Republic of Cote D'Ivoire, Ivory Coast, Republic of the Cyprus, Republic of Czech Republic Denmark, Kingdom of Djibouti, Republic of Dominica, Commonwealth of Ecuador, Republic of Egypt, Arab Republic of El Salvador, Republic of Equatorial Guinea, Republic of Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Faeroe Islands Falkland Islands (Malvinas) Fiji, Republic of the Fiji Islands Finland, Republic of France, French Republic French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon, Gabonese Republic Gambia, Republic of the Georgia Germany Ghana, Republic of Gibraltar Greece, Hellenic Republic Greenland Grenada Guadaloupe Guam Guatemala, Republic of Guinea, Revolutionary People's Rep'c of Guinea-Bissau, Republic of Guyana, Republic of Heard and McDonald Islands Holy See (Vatican City State) Honduras, Republic of Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region of China Hrvatska (Croatia) Hungary, Hungarian People's Republic Iceland, Republic of India, Republic of Indonesia, Republic of Iran, Islamic Republic of Iraq, Republic of Ireland Israel, State of Italy, Italian Republic Japan Jordan, Hashemite Kingdom of Kazakhstan, Republic of Kenya, Republic of Kiribati, Republic of Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Kuwait, State of Kyrgyz Republic Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon, Lebanese Republic Lesotho, Kingdom of Liberia, Republic of Libyan Arab Jamahiriya Liechtenstein, Principality of Lithuania Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Macao, Special Administrative Region of China Macedonia, the former Yugoslav Republic of Madagascar, Republic of Malawi, Republic of Malaysia Maldives, Republic of Mali, Republic of Malta, Republic of Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania, Islamic Republic of Mauritius Mayotte Micronesia, Federated States of Moldova, Republic of Monaco, Principality of Mongolia, Mongolian People's Republic Montserrat Morocco, Kingdom of Mozambique, People's Republic of Myanmar Namibia Nauru, Republic of Nepal, Kingdom of Netherlands Antilles Netherlands, Kingdom of the New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua, Republic of Niger, Republic of the Nigeria, Federal Republic of Niue, Republic of Norfolk Island Northern Mariana Islands Norway, Kingdom of Oman, Sultanate of Pakistan, Islamic Republic of Palau Palestinian Territory, Occupied Panama, Republic of Papua New Guinea Paraguay, Republic of Peru, Republic of Philippines, Republic of the Pitcairn Island Poland, Polish People's Republic Portugal, Portuguese Republic Puerto Rico Qatar, State of Reunion Romania, Socialist Republic of Russian Federation Rwanda, Rwandese Republic Samoa, Independent State of San Marino, Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, Democratic Republic of Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of Senegal, Republic of Serbia and Montenegro Seychelles, Republic of Sierra Leone, Republic of Singapore, Republic of Slovakia (Slovak Republic) Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia, Somali Republic South Africa, Republic of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands Spain, Spanish State Sri Lanka, Democratic Socialist Republic of St. Helena St. Kitts and Nevis St. Lucia St. Pierre and Miquelon St. Vincent and the Grenadines Sudan, Democratic Republic of the Suriname, Republic of Svalbard & Jan Mayen Islands Swaziland, Kingdom of Sweden, Kingdom of Switzerland, Swiss Confederation Syrian Arab Republic Taiwan, Province of China Tajikistan Tanzania, United Republic of Thailand, Kingdom of Timor-Leste, Democratic Republic of Togo, Togolese Republic Tokelau (Tokelau Islands) Tonga, Kingdom of Trinidad and Tobago, Republic of Tunisia, Republic of Turkey, Republic of Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Uganda, Republic of Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom of Great Britain & N. Ireland Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe
Cork author Susan Lanigan is delighted to have made the Rebel County her home - and has set her latest novel here.

Originally from Carlow, Susan lived in Dublin before re-locating to Cobh nine years ago.

Was it love that prompted Susan to relocate to the former Queenstown steeped in history?

It was indeed! she laughs. The man who is my husband and who has family connections brought me here! Cobh is great!

A mother of one son, Susan is the author of the acclaimed White Feathers and Lucias War, and is back with a new book, The Planters Daughter, a genre-defying eco crime novel that blends history, tension, environmental activism, and psychological depth.

Susan, who is a software developer and has been a member of the Green Party since 2017, describes a plot that is ripe with intrigue for her latest work.

Sadbh Drummond was landed gentry, a passionate eco warrior, and she left a trail of broken hearts and wrecked marriages behind her. So, when her burned body is found in a forestry plantation in West Cork, it soon becomes clear that her death was not an accident.

Tell us more about Sadbh, whose murder sets the ball rolling for a riveting read set in the magical surrounds of West Cork.

Her Anglo-Irish heritage and great beauty marked her as an outsider, and her campaigns to save the land and climate activism put her into conflict with many, including local farmer Tom Keating and resentful Sinead Furlong, explains Susan.

The Planters Daughter, by Susan Lanigan

The plot thickens in more ways than one.

When Detective Inspector Rosa Keane is called in to investigate, she soon learns about age-old resentments dating back to the War of Independence.

Sadhbh and her family were well known and were once renowned estate landowners pre the Irish Civil War years.

But with a town closing ranks and Rosa secretly grappling with her own gender identity, the question is can she and her colleague, Kevin, discover what happened to Sadhbh before its too late?

Susan adds:  The Planters Daughter is a distillation of everything I learned since I joined the Green Party in 2017, as well as my long-held conviction that our dysfunctional relationship to climate and biodiversity is due to long-term colonial damage.

Susan is not afraid to include controversial topics in her fiction.

The book also examines the hypocrisy of our attitudes to transgender people, she said.

Through the character of Sadhbh, the murdered activist, the novel shows the myriad resentments of her enemies.

It is why I chose the title The Planters Daughter, after the Austin Clarke poem.

The poem by the Dublin poet, who died 51 years ago, is a wonderfully romantic declaration of love for a woman.

A murder mystery with a mix of crime, controversy, old feuds, racism, Irish history, suspicion, trans-phobia, betrayal, and relationships, The Planters Daughter will keep you turning the pages, with its well-drawn .characters and well-researched historical background.

Local farmer Tom Keating, whose grandfather, Harry, was involved in the War of Independence, is the main suspect in the murder investigation.

Tom, too, has a past and a story to tell. His resentful stepdaughter, Sinead Furlong, plays a role in the intrigue and sense of suspicion surrounding the investigations.

With a town closing ranks, Inspector Rosa Keane learns about deeply ingrained resentments dating back to the War of Independence while secretly grappling with her own gender identity.

Can Rosa and Garda Kevin, discover what happened to Sadhbh before its too late?

Susans desire to tell powerful stories, historical fiction, and contemporary short stories, and her gra for history, is reflected in The Planter's Daughter.

She long harboured an ambition to be a writer.

Yes, becoming an author was always an ambition of mine ever since I was a kid, she says.

Writing, researching, drafting, and editing a book can be hard work, cant it?

I find the research very interesting, says Susan, who graduated with a masters in creative writing from NUI Galway, and who has had short stories published in The Stinging Fly, Southward, The Sunday Tribune, the Irish Independent, Nature Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine and Mayo News.

Susan has been thrice shortlisted for the Hennessy New Irish Writing Award, and longlisted and shortlisted for the Fish Short Story Contest, the Bristol Prize, the Raymond Carver Short Story Award, and other competitions.

Her life-long ambition to become a published author and her passion for Irish history, notably World War I, has served her well, making a familiar name in all good bookshops.

Her taut prose and ability to conjure up an evocative atmosphere make The Planters Daughter a stand-out addition to Irelands literary crime canon.

How are you enjoying  The Planters Daughter ? inquires Susan.

I tell her that I couldnt wait to get to the end of the book to find out what happened to Sadhbh before it was too late!

Enthusiastic readers of The Planters Daughter will no doubt concur!

The Planters Daughter, by Susan Lanigan, is available from Idee Fixe Press and major retailers.
A holidaymaker who followed and threatened a woman and her friends following a night out in West Cork has pleaded guilty in the district court to public order offences.

Kristian Breen, aged 37, with an address at Grosvenor Square, Rathmines, Dublin, pleaded guilty to two counts of threatening and abusive behaviour and one count of public intoxication.

Sergeant Tom Mulcahy told Skibbereen District Court gardai were alerted to an incident at Fields car park in Skibbereen in the early hours of April 13. Just after 1am, a woman who was walking home with a group of friends was followed and threatened by a man identified as Kristian Breen.

The court was told Breen had tried to assault the group, was aggressive and shouting, and forced the friends to defend themselves. Breen was eventually held on the ground by three men and gardai were called.

When gardai arrived, Breen continued to be aggressive and was shouting but could not tell them his name or address. Breen appeared to be highly intoxicated and he was arrested and taken to Clonakilty Garda Station.

At the station, Breen continued to behave in an aggressive manner, attempting to interfere when the member in charge completed the custody record. He also refused to remove his belt when he was placed in a cell, and told gardai he was a boxer and he would knock them out. The court heard Breen had no previous convictions.

Defence solicitor Eamonn Fleming said Breen worked as a fitness instructor for a fitness company and the incident was completely out of character.

He said Breen was on holiday in Skibbereen at the time and had gone out for a drink with his wife. Mr Fleming said Breens wife had gone back to their hotel to do some work on her laptop and his client had unwisely decided to stay on and have a few more drinks.

The court was told Breen did not usually drink large amounts of alcohol and his behaviour was bizarre for someone at this stage in his life. Mr Fleming said Breen could not explain why he behaved the way he did and apologised to all concerned.

Judge Joanne Carroll said it was a very serious matter where women walking home felt threatened and intimidated to such an extent they called the gardai. She said people were in fear for their safety because of Breens behaviour, and the offending warranted a prison sentence.

The judge said it was too soon after the event to make a decision in the case and adjourned the matter to September 22, 2026. Judge Carroll said she wanted Breen to demonstrate he could stay out of trouble and remanded him on continuing bail for a behaviour report from gardai at the next hearing.
A small city centre theatre with a big heart is looking ahead to a golden jubilee as it celebrates its 50th year in 2026.

Established in 1976 as a club for the local arts community, the Cork Arts Theatre is planning to deliver an ambitious programme of three contemporary plays, produced under the banner Re:Directing, thanks to vital Arts Council funding.

The plays three Cork-born theatre directors are Julie Kelleher, Al Dalton, and Katrina Foley, and the initiative will showcase high-quality, local productions that fit within the intimate setting of the fondly-named CAT Club.

The Cork Arts Theatres director, Fin Flynn, said that 2026 looks to be an exciting year.

We are a small venue, and we punch above our weight in our offering to Cork theatre goers, and the opportunities we provide for local artists to showcase their work, she said.

The Arts Council grant is a recognition of our crucial role in bringing quality theatre to Cork audiences and creating opportunities for Cork artists.

We were delighted to receive the funding to produce work, in what will be the venues 50th year.

It is a testament to the hard work of everyone who steered this small, but vibrant, theatre through some challenging times, Ms Flynn added.

We wont be resting on our laurels. We are looking forward to continuing to offer great theatre experiences for audiences for the next 50 years.

As for our Re:Directing series of plays, mark the dates in your 2026 calendar now. They are not to be missed.

The three plays  Infinity, by Canadian playwright Hannah Moscovitch; Constellations, by Nick Payne, and Girl in the Machine, by Stef Smith  differ in style and tone, but are thematically linked, as all three explore romantic relationships.

The multi-award-winning set and lighting designer Aedin Cosgrove, and acclaimed costume designer Valentina Gambardella will work across all three plays.

Infinity, directed by Julie Kelleher, will run from February 4 to 14, 2026.

Constellations, directed by Al Dalton, presented in partnership with Cork Midsummer Festival, will run from June 17 to 21, 2026.

Girl in the Machine, directed by Katrina Foley, will run from November 11 to 21, 2026.

For further information, please see corkartstheatre.com.
The Echo is to support the vital work of Cork Penny Dinners this Christmas season as it announces the service as its 2025 Christmas Charity Appeal beneficiary.

Christmas can be a difficult time for many, and for those in need,it is even harder.

In 2024, supported the work of the centre by pledging 100 Christmas dinners to their annual appeal, at a cost of 2,000.

This year, The Echo is proud to support the vital work of Cork Penny Dinners by once again pledging 100 Christmas dinners on behalf of The Echo and EchoLive.ie readers.

Penny Dinners is there for those most in need every day of the year, but Christmas places extra demand and pressure on services, so it deserves all of our support, said John OMahony, the editor of The Echo and the Irish Examiner.

 The Echo has a longstanding relationship with Penny Dinners, and we are delighted again to team up with Caitriona and the team at what is a very busy time.

Caitriona Twomey of Cork Penny Dinners said: Penny Dinners is open 365 days of the year, including on Christmas, and we are more than grateful to The Echo and to everyone who has donated to us throughout the years.

For the people who come here, it is a lifeline, and we couldnt do that without the support we are given, and The Echo has been a constant support for us down through the years.

Ms Twomey said: When that support keeps coming back year-on-year, you know that you will be able to provide a dinner for everyone who comes in that door on Christmas Day or any other day of the year.

In Penny Dinners, we are fortunate enough to have never had to hold a fundraiser. We have been able to rely on the kindness of donations such as The Echo Christmas Appeal, from the publics goodwill.

If you would like to make a donation to Cork Penny Dinners, visit CorkPennyDinners.ie
Taoiseach Micheal Martin has wished Chief Superintendent Tom Myers, the outgoing head of policing in the Cork City Garda Division, well in his retirement.

Mr Myers is to stand down today, having been originally due to retire in 2023 on his 60th birthday, before successfully seeking a two-year deferment.

Mr Myers took over as chief in the Cork City division in November 2021, and his retirement comes in the same week as a record allocation of 48 new gardai  36 new recruits and 12 transfers  arrived in the city.

Mr Martin said he had known Mr Myers for many years, and holds him in high regard.

He is an exceptional leader who worked very well with the community and with business leaders in the city, he said.

He was a very strong advocate for An Garda Siochana within the city and particularly for the need for additional resources, and he was very effective in the deployment of the resources that he had.

"He was well respected across all strata of society.

Cork city native

A popular chief with his staff, his tenure has generally been viewed favourably in the city, but the amalgamation earlier this year of garda units at Douglas and Carrigaline, and Bishopstown and Ballincollig, a move necessitated by a lack of garda numbers, proved controversial.

A northsider born and reared, the Cathedral Rd native joined An Garda Siochana in 1984 and was posted around the country in different ranks.

I was here in Cork, primarily, Chief Supt Myers told The Echo in February 2022.

I spent most of my time in the drug squad. I was a superintendent in Mayfield for a while, I was a super[intendent] here in Anglesea Street for a while, a chief in Kerry and a chief in Fermoy. Ive been around the block.

Generally speaking, though, I was Cork-based.

Earlier this year, he told this newspaper: Policing used to be about the gardai before, but its not about us anymore.

We cant police the city unless we have all the stakeholders onside, and thats a fact.

We all have our part to play in keeping our city safe.

His replacement has yet to be announced.
Cork woman Angie Benhaffaf has been announced as the Lidl Family Carer of the Year 2025.

Ms Benhaffaf, from Carrigtwohill, has been recognised for nearly 16 years of care for her twin sons, Hassan and Hussein, who were born conjoined and have faced lifelong medical challenges.

At her 12-week scan, Ms Benhaffaf was told that she and her children might not live through the pregnancy.

However, her twins, now award-winning para-athletes, were born sharing every organ except their hearts, and each with only one leg.

Alongside caring for the twins through 75 surgeries, months spent in hospital and countless medical emergencies, Ms Benhaffaf has also raised more than 105,000 for childrens charities.

Catherine Cox of Family Carers Ireland, said Ms Benhaffafs story is one of extraordinary resilience, unconditional love, and unwavering commitment.

She has faced some of the most difficult circumstances imaginable, and yet has created a family life filled with joy, hope, and strength, said Ms Cox.
The people of Bantry are sick and tired of waiting for flood-relief measures and want to know when works on the proposed scheme and culvert will take place, council officials have been told.

The issue was raised by the Independent Ireland councillor Danny Collins, who said that the most recent flooding hit Bantry on November 4  the seventh flood to hit the West Cork town in five years.

He told Cork County Councils western division that while there is a proposed flood-relief scheme, we are being told it wont start until at least 2031/2032. He also sought an update on proposed culvert works.

According to reports done in 2018, more than 500m of the towns 950m of culverts were in urgent need of repair, said Mr Collins. Now, seven years later, the people of Bantry deserve to know when these works are going to start. They are sick and tired of hearing this year and that year.

Council engineer Catherine Murphy said Cork County Council, in partnership with the Office of Public Works, is advancing plans to upgrade the culvert that runs through Wolfe Tone Square, New St, and Bridge St in Bantry.

She said the Part 8 report was approved in February and the council completed the procurement process for technical advisers in October.

Based on information provided during the technical-adviser tender process, Ms Murphy said a feasibility study was expected to be completed in two months. Detailed design had an estimated timeframe of 12 months and, following that, procurement and contracting were estimated to take four months. Construction was then anticipated to start in quarter two of 2027.

Ms Murphy said: As with any construction project, but particularly one of this nature, factors as yet unforeseen may impact the current planned programmed delivery.

WARNING

Independent Ireland councillor John Collins proposed that Bantry get a flood-warning system similar to one that previously operated in Bandon, as an interim measure, while the town waits.

Mr Collins said a system had been in place in Bandon that provided information for residents and businesses by text message when flooding was expected.

Finbarr Harrington (Ind) said the constant worry for people in Bantry about flooding was mentally draining and such a system could help alleviate some of the stress.

Ms Murphy told the meeting that: The development of an early flood-warning system for Bantry is challenging, due to the nature of the catchment, which is steeply sloping and prone to rapid onset of flooding.

She said the council will engage with OPW and Met Eireann to review the existing gauging infrastructure within the catchment area and identify if additional stations would allow for the development of a meaningful flood warning system.

Funded by the Local Democracy Scheme.
Kinsale and District Lions Club has partnered with CUH Charity to launch its Christmas toy appeal for 2025, bringing festive joy to children spending Christmas in Cork hospitals.

An uplifting community tradition, the appeal gathers new toys for children in Cork University Hospital (CUH), as well as for local charities, family support groups, and other hospitals including the Mercy and South Infirmary.

With the support of An Garda Siochana, emergency services, the Defence Forces, and the Coast Guard, Santa and his team will safely deliver toys to CUH, where they will be welcomed by CUH Charity and accompanied by the Army Band.

A huge thank you to our members, partners, and the public for the extraordinary support shown, said Kinsale and District Lions Club president Cormac Fitzgerald.

This toy appeal continues to grow through the kindness and generosity of our community. The Lions Club remains deeply committed to serving and supporting local people, especially at Christmas.

Kinsale and District Lions Club requested that only new toys be donated to the appeal. The Kinsale drop-off is at Fitzgerald & Partners Chartered Accountants, No 9, Pearse St, Kinsale. Contact Linda Farley on 021 4774500 or email info@fitzgeraldandpartners.com.

The Cork city drop-off is being held at MMD Construction, Cork Airport Business Park.

Alongside the toy appeal, the club is also running its annual food appeal, tree of remembrance, and Christmas Day swim, all of which play a vital role in supporting families and individuals across the wider Kinsale district.

Visit www.kinsalelionsonline.com for more information.
University College Cork (UCC) has been announced as the first Irish higher education institution to receive a Fostering Friendly Workplace Award by Tusla.

The award acknowledges organisations that support foster carers in the workplace, ensuring foster care remains an accessible option for individuals and families who work outside the home.

UCC has been recognised for introducing in November of 2024 paid time off for fostering assessment visits and review meetings; two days of paid fostering leave to support staff receiving a child, or sibling group; and/or to assist the settling-in of a foster child to the family home.

The policy also includes flexible working patterns for foster carers and supports for staff  when a foster placement ends or breaks down  via the UCC employee assistance programme.

The award was presented to Professor Nuala Finnegan, UCCs dean of undergraduate and postgraduate studies (on behalf of the universitys leadership team), by Tuslas national lead for foster care, Jacqueline Smyth.

Ms Smyth said Tusla foster carers are a diverse community, coming from a variety of age groups and backgrounds and many foster carers work outside the home.

Organisations who support their staff in their roles as foster carers makes it easier for that carer to support and care for vulnerable children and, in turn, ensures that Tusla can continue to recruit and retain a vibrant community of foster carers,

said Ms Smyth.

We congratulate and commend UCC for its leadership in fostering such a supportive and inclusive work environment.

Prof Finnegan said UCC is committed to providing an inclusive and diverse work environment for all staff.

While there is no statutory right to paid time off for employees who foster a child currently, UCC recognises the national shortage of placements for children and young people in care, said Ms Finnegan.

We wish to support the recruitment and retention of approved foster carers to address this need.
Four Cork National Lottery players are celebrating wins this weekend after buying tickets or scratch cards in Midleton, Hollyhill, and the city centre.

A Cork man walked away with the largest cheque of the week, after winning 1m on the Lotto Plus 1 draw on Saturday, November 1, with a ticket purchased at Tesco, Market Green Shopping Centre, Midleton.

After reading in the local paper that a big win had yet to be claimed in Midleton, he checked his ticket and realised he had won 1m, but kept the news to himself for the rest of the day.

I didnt tell anyone, not even my wife, and went to work as normal, although my head was absolutely scrambled. I knew I had to contact the National Lottery before heading home, just to be sure.

Later that evening, he shared the news: The newspaper was left on the dinner table, so I asked them what they would do if they won the prize money. When I told them I had the winning ticket, it was madness.

He plans to celebrate with a family trip to Disneyland Paris and a home renovation project.

Two siblings from Cork, who have been in a syndicate together for many years, also claimed a Lotto Match 5 plus Bonus prize of 292,572 after purchasing a winning ticket at Costcutter on Bridge St in Cork. One of the siblings is looking forward to doing some home improvements, while the other has their sights set on a brand new kitchen.

A Cork woman also won 50,000, the top prize amount on a 5 Merry Money scratch card after purchasing the winning card in Applegreen, Hollyhill, on Harbour View Rd.

We are going to treat ourselves, the plan is a new car for my husband and a designer pair of heels and handbag for me  it really is the perfect excuse to enjoy a little luxury, she said.

We are absolutely over the moon with the win, and cant quite believe it. You never expect something like this to happen.
James Cox

The earliest directly dated wildcat (Felis silvestris) ever found in Ireland has been identified, confirming the species lived on the island more than 5,500 years ago.

The discovery, by Dr Marion Dowd, an archaeologist at Atlantic Technological University (ATU), marks a breakthrough in understanding Irelands prehistoric wildlife and ecology.

The bones, uncovered during archaeological excavations in Glencurran Cave in the Burren, Co Clare, date to around 3600 BC (Neolithic).

Until now, no prehistoric cat remains in Ireland had been radiocarbon dated, leaving long-standing uncertainty over whether early finds represented wildcats or later domestic intrusions.

The research, published in the Journal of Irish Archaeology, also formed part of a major international study published in Science, which analysed ancient cat DNA across Europe.

Bones belonging to an adult male wildcat were discovered deep within Glencurran Cave. Photo: Ken Williams

During excavations, 39 bones belonging to an adult wildcat were discovered deep within Glencurran Cave.

There were no cut marks or evidence of human interference, indicating the animal died naturally inside the cave.

The bones were identified by zooarchaeologist Margaret McCarthy. Radiocarbon dating carried out at Queens University Belfast confirmed the remains were over 5,500 years old. Ancient DNA sequencing by Prof Claudio Ottoni and his team at the University of Rome Tor Vergata further verified the animal as a European wildcat - distinct from both modern domestic cats (Felis catus) and Near Eastern wildcats (F. lybica lybica).

The aDNA also showed that the Glencurran wildcat was a male and belonged to an ancient European lineage, closely related to wildcats from Italy and Spain, rather than the modern Scottish population.

ATU's Dr Dowd said: This is the first time we can say with certainty that European wildcats lived in prehistoric Ireland. It transforms what we thought we knew about Irelands ancient wildlife.

Glencurran Cave in the Burren, County Clare, where the earliest directly dated wildcat (Felis silvestris) ever found in Ireland was discovered. Photo: Ken Williams

For decades, small numbers of cat bones were found on prehistoric sites, including the Mesolithic site of Lough Boora, Co Offaly and the Neolithic passage tomb of Newgrange, Co Meath, but without radiocarbon dating, it was impossible to confirm their age or species.

"This discovery finally gives us solid evidence that wildcats were here in the Neolithic. The ancient DNA results were especially exciting. To see this Irish wildcat grouping with animals from southern Europe tells us it belonged to a much older, wilder lineage than our domestic cats today."

The findings raise major new questions: Were wildcats introduced by early hunter-gatherers during the Mesolithic period, or did they arrive thousands of years later with Neolithic farmers? How long did they survive in Ireland before extinction? And why are so few prehistoric cats remains known?

Dr Dowd explained: We simply dont know when wildcats arrived in Ireland or when they vanished. Medieval writers mention wildcats in the Irish landscape, but these may have been feral domestic cats. Confusion is also common with the pine marten- known in Irish as cat crainn, or cat of the trees".

European wildcat (Felis silvestris) by Luc Viatour, via Wikimedia Commons

She added: "This find makes clear that we need to radiocarbon-date and analyse other cat bones from prehistoric sites across Ireland. Without radiocarbon dating and aDNA analyses, we cannot separate true prehistoric wildcats from later domestic cats."

Wildcat was once widespread across Europe but declined sharply from the 1700s due to habitat loss, hunting, and competition with domestic cats. As the domestic cat population grew, wildcat numbers plummeted.

Wildcats prefer forest habitats and avoid humans, living mostly solitary, nocturnal lives. Although similar in size and appearance to domestic cats, they are a different species.

Dr Dowd noted: This project shows what can be achieved when archaeology, radiocarbon dating, and genomics come together.

Further analyses of cat remains from other sites may ultimately reveal how wildcats reached Ireland, how they lived, and when and why they vanished from the Irish landscape.
Ottoline Spearman

Dublin City Council has said that hundreds of flags erected across the city by anti-immigration groups will not be removed.

Instead, the council will launch initiatives to promote a deeper understanding of the Irish flag, according to the Irish Times.

The flags began appearing in August, with calls from councillors and members of the public for them to be removed.

Proponents of the flags say they signify patriotism and national pride; but opponents argue they are designed to intimidate immigrants.

The decision by the council follows concerns that any large-scale removal would provoke an angry response and could put council workers in danger.

Speaking on Newstalk, Sinn Fein councillor Daithi Doolan said people need to look at why they're putting up the flags in the first place: "I'm not going to demand other people put themselves at risk to take down the flags when I think the people who put them up themselves need to look at the state of some of those flags and take them down out of honor for the flag and our communities.

"And also what we don't want to do is put our foot on somebody else's landmine and be drawn into a battle with them which we can't win."
(Photo Vatican News.)Pope Leo XIV during a meeting with Turkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Nov. 27, 2025.

Pope Leo XIV is in Turkiye and will be joined by the World Council of Churches general secretary, Rev. Jerry Pillay and Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew for a special anniversary in the Christian unity calendar

They are to join on Nov. 28 for an ecumenical prayer service in Nicaea  modern-day Iznik, in Turkiye  marking the 1700th anniversary of the First Ecumenical Council in the history of the church.

The ceremony marking this significant anniversary will take place at the archaeological site containing the ruins of the Basilica of Saint Neophytos in Nicaea, Bithynia.

The special commemoration is part of ecumenical efforts acknowledging divisions but seeking -- symbolically and practically -- to recover a sense of shared identity. For many, mourning the fractures and committing to dialogue and reconciliation may renew hope for unity.

Pope Leo kicked off his journey on Nov. 27 in Turkiye's Presidential Palace and then at the Nation's Library, where authorities, civil society, and members of the diplomatic corps gathered to hear the Pope's first words during his first Apostolic Journey abroad.

Addressing Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Pope Leo expressed gratitude for the warm welcome extended to him.

- LINKED TO ORIGINS OF CHRISTIANITY

The Pope spoke of Turkiye as a land "inextricably linked to the origins of Christianity," yet also one that calls together all children of AbrahamMuslims, Christians, and Jews--to recognize difference not as division, but as a pathway to fraternity.

The Pope reflected on the natural beauty and rich cultural diversity of the country, describing them as reminders that human civilization flourishes where generations, ideas, and traditions meet.

The planned commemoration is more than symbolic: the intention is to gather leaders from multiple Christian traditions  not only Catholic and Orthodox, but also other Christian communities  in a prayerful gesture of unity, according to Vatican News.

The Ecumenical Patriarchate, who is based in Istanbul, expressed joy at the visit of Pope Leo to Turkiye, in response to the expressed wish and invitation of Bartholomew to commemorate together the historic 1700th anniversary.

Pope Leo XIV will visit Turkiye and Lebanon for his first foreign journey, calling the two countries "rich in history and spirituality," and asking for prayers during his last general audience on Nov. 26.

In addition to participating in the special ecumenical prayer, Pillay will speak on 29 November before heads of churches and Christian world communions on "What Nicaea means to us today: Sharing reflections and proposals."
Welcome back! I hope you had a great Thanksgiving. Meanwhile, were facing the annual torrent of Black Friday deals (and non-deals). I stand by $100 off the PS5 probably being the most intriguing discount this year, as its a rare one  and consoles have continued to get more expensive in the last few years.

There are other big discounts on more tech I personally bought (at full price, ugh), like Ankers Laptop Power Bank, down from $135 to $88. I confess to giving a full show-and-tell performance when someone asks me about this giant battery pack, capable of charging laptops, Switch consoles and multiple phones. The best feature is the two built-in cables: one as a carrying strap, the other a retractable cable that is very satisfying to use. 25,000mAh is more than enough for multiple phone top-ups too.

Alongside small discounts on some Apple devices like the latest AirPods Pro, the iPad (A16) is down to $274. Its the cheapest current-gen Apple tablet and more than enough for most. Sure, we wish the display were laminated and had some anti-glare coating, but a 21 percent discount? That mostly makes up for that.

Advertisement Advertisement

Going on experience, most of the best deals have been announced by now, but a few surprises could pop up in the early hours of the morning. Keep an eye on our Black Friday 2025 deals page for the latest deals before they sell out.

 Mat Smith

Get Engadget's newsletter delivered direct to your inbox. Subscribe right here!

The news you might have missed

Stick vacuum discounts too.

Engadget

Dysons Black Friday sale covers vacuums and related products, with a $600 discount on its 360 Vis Nav robot vacuum  the cheapest weve ever seen it. Stick vacs, what Dyson is best known for perhaps, are also discounted, with the Dyson V12 Detect Slim cordless vacuum down to $400 ($330 off) at Amazon and Dyson. (We loved the green laser beam feature for ensuring youve cleaned every inch of your floor.) The Dyson V9 Motorbar cordless vacuum is even cheaper at $270, more than half off.

Advertisement Advertisement

Continue reading.

When you have as many cameras as Sony, you can call something a flagship midrange.

Tech news is a little light, as most companies push their sales and stock-clearance offers. However, Sony appears to be ready to announce another addition to its Alpha camera lineup. The company shared an image on the Sony Alpha Instagram account with the text Chase your dream and the date December 2 at 9AM EST. The giant V is likely an unsubtle reference to a Sony A7 V, a follow-up to the Sony Alpha 7 IV. Rumors suggest the A7 V could feature a new 33MP partially stacked sensor designed by Sony. It might be able to capture 30 fps video in electronic shutter mode and 4K 60 fps video without cropping the sensor. That could make it more potent than Sonys cinema cameras, like the FX2.

Continue reading.

You may need to pay to stream from a friends server.

Some bad news for anyone whos been using Plex to stream stuff from a buddys personal media server. The service is starting to enforce a paywall for remote streaming from an individual server to TV apps. Plex is rolling out the change on its Roku app this week, followed by its other TV apps (on the likes of Fire TV, Apple TV and Android TV) and third-party clients that use its remote streaming API in 2026.

Advertisement Advertisement

The owner of a media server will need a Plex Pass subscription to grant other people remote access to it through the service. A Plex Pass now costs $7 per month, $70 per year or $250 for a lifetime membership. Yeah, it's the opposite of a deal.

Continue reading.
Ethan Browne, an actor, model, and musician, and the son of legendary rock musician Jackson Browne, was found unresponsive in his home on the morning of November 25, 2025, and was pronounced dead. He was 52 years old.

The rock legend announced his son's death on Wednesday, November 26, through a statement posted on social media. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee shared that his son was found unresponsive in his residence and subsequently passed away. No details regarding the cause of death have been provided, and the family requested privacy and respect during this difficult period.

Ethan was born on November 2, 1973, to Jackson Browne and model Phyllis Major. When he was just six months old, he appeared on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine alongside his father, according to NBC News. His early life was marked by tragedy when his mother died by suicide in March 1976 at age 30, only a year after marrying Jackson Browne, leaving Ethan as a toddler.

Read more: Reggae Legend Jimmy Cliff Dies at 81 Following Battle With Respiratory Illness

Throughout his career, Ethan pursued multiple creative paths. He appeared in several films and television productions, including the 1995 thriller "Hackers" alongside Angelina Jolie and Jonny Lee Miller, and the 2004 comedy "Raising Helen" featuring Kate Hudson. He also worked as a model, collaborating with notable designers throughout his career.

Following his father's musical legacy, Ethan formed a music duo and worked in the music industry, the New York Post reported. He founded Spinside Records, a subsidiary of Inside Recordings, and released music with his musical partners.

Jackson Browne has previously spoken about his pride in his son's accomplishments. In a 2022 interview with Tru Rock Revival, the musician said, "Ethan is a great father. He's a great son, a great man. I love seeing him with his kids. When I see him in his movies, modeling, with his daughter, and being such a great dad, it makes me very proud." Jackson Browne is also father to Ryan, 43, from his marriage to Lynne Sweeney, as per USA Today.

The family has asked for privacy during this time of grieving, and no additional details about Ethan Browne's death have been released.
Kim Kardashian is speaking honestly about how hard it has been to stay calm while her ex-husband, Kanye West, continues to make public comments about her and their family.

In the Nov. 27 episode of "The Kardashians," Kim shared that she often wants to react but chooses not to, saying, "Sometimes I just feel like snapping, but I can't."

She explained that staying quiet is better for her peace and for her four kids  North, Saint, Chicago, and Psalm.

During the episode, a producer told Kim that her "ex is very loud out there," and Kim agreed that she can't engage with the things being said online.

She also talked with Scott Disick, who apologized for the stress she has been facing. Kim admitted, "It is hard," but said her main focus is staying strong for her children, People reported.

Kim also pushed back on claims that she keeps the kids from their father. Kanye had suggested in past livestreams that he was "not seeing" his children and was speaking to lawyers.

Kim said those comments were especially hurtful because they questioned her as a parent. "I always encourage a relationship, but a healthy one," she said, adding that the accusations have been "frustrating."

Kim Kardashian Admits She Feels Like "Snapping" Over Ex Kanye "Ye" West's Public Comments #kimkardashian https://t.co/U0P00i1NZP pic.twitter.com/53lybMq6YK  Olivia Emma (@OliviaEmma17579) November 27, 2025

Kim Kardashian Says Kanye 'Never Once Called'

Kim noted that despite Kanye's public complaints, he "never once called" her during those times.

She emphasized that the kids see him whenever he reaches out, saying she has "never once" kept them away.

According to ENews, she even shared that there have been moments when she wanted to show proof of her efforts, saying, "I beg them to go hang out."

Earlier this year, Kim told "Call Her Daddy" host Alex Cooper that she raises the kids "full time," but that she still supports their connection with their dad.

She explained that Kanye has always traveled and lived in different places, so the family works around that. Still, she admitted it had been "a couple months" since they last heard from him.

The stress from Kanye's recent behavior has affected Kim physically, too. On the show, she revealed that her psoriasis had returned  something she linked to feeling "pretty tested" by the situation.

She said the hardest part was when one of her kids realized something was wrong for the first time.
As the pair grapple with a string of unfavorable media stories, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle chose to demonstrate their unity in a very public way at a Thanksgiving volunteer event in Los Angeles.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were snapped linking arms at Our Big Kitchen, a community-run nonprofit that prepares meals for residents facing food insecurity.

The images, shared by their Archewell Foundation with the caption "Show up. Do Good," showed Harry holding Meghan from behind while both smiled, highlighting a strong sense of togetherness.

A royal source told the Daily Mail, "Harry has his arms around Meghan to stress their closeness after recent controversies," adding that the photograph was particularly revealing given the couple's recent media scrutiny.

As the season of giving begins, Prince Harry & Meghan along with little Archie & Lilibet, joined Our Big Kitchen LA to prepare & package meals for community members.



Love seeing them teach the young prince & princess the true value of service and giving back. #HappyThanksgiving pic.twitter.com/ahjfmtXS0b  Chung Seto  (@setochungster) November 26, 2025

The display of unity follows a series of PR missteps, including their appearance at Kris Jenner's 70th birthday party, a disputed allegation that Meghan took dresses from a 2022 cover shoot without permission, and negative attention surrounding her recent Harper's Bazaar feature.

Another insider said the event illustrated both defiance and family focus, noting the Sussexes' desire to remain rooted in the U.S. while managing their public image.

"These are pictures that say everything about the Sussexes: an all-American event celebrating Thanksgiving but a highly curated image issued after the visit via social media," the source told Daily Mail.

At Our Big Kitchen, Harry and Meghan involved their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, in preparing meals. Meghan held Lilibet's hand while Harry packed tupperware boxes with rice, mince, and peppers.

The couple also documented the event on Instagram, with Meghan wearing an Archewell Foundation apron and sharing images of volunteers chopping vegetables and shaping cookies. The foundation said that meals would be distributed to schools, shelters, senior centers, and other community organizations.

Criticism Over Recent Public Behavior

While the charities they supported were lauded, Meghan has been singled out for a few of her recent off-the-record behaviors. In a brief Instagram video, she was seen managing a turkey while adorned with rings and bracelets, which to concerns regarding the cleanliness of the kitchen.

"I don't know anyone who wears their rings and bracelets when handling food, especially a turkey. Guaranteed spread of bacteria," commented one viewer online, per Mirror.

Additionally, Meghan's interview with Harper's Bazaar, in which a house manager reportedly announced her as "Meghan, Duchess of Sussex" to just three people, drew criticism from PR experts.

Charlotte Foster of the Express reported that Renae Smith, founder of The Atticism, called the announcement "cringeworthy" and "painfully performative," warning it could negatively affect public perception.

Smith added, "It's the inconsistency that hurts her the most." Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams echoed this sentiment, describing the introduction as a breach of protocol that made Meghan appear "silly."
Shannen Doherty's estate is accusing her ex-husband, Kurt Iswarienko, of refusing to follow major parts of their divorce settlement, according to new court documents filed on November 24.

The filing comes months after Doherty died at age 53 following a long cancer battle.

Her trustee, Christopher Cortazzo, says the agreement made just one day before her passing is being ignored.

The estate claims Iswarienko failed to list a home in Dripping Springs, Texas, even though the settlement required the four-bedroom property to be sold and the profit split between the two.

Worth an estimated $1.5 million, the home has still not been placed on the market, US Magazine reported.

Cortazzo also says Iswarienko has not provided a list of his artwork or returned items that belonged to Doherty.

Under the settlement, she was supposed to receive half of the licensing fees from his photography.

The document states that Doherty should receive "one-half of all licensing/syndication fees" for photographs and other works Iswarienko created during their marriage.

The filing adds that Iswarienko has not paid the estate its agreed-upon share from a plane-related sale.

As part of the deal, he was to buy out Doherty's interest in a Mooney M-20 airplane and sell the hangar connected to it. The estate says it is still owed $50,274. Iswarienko has not yet responded to the motion.

Shannen Doherty's estate is accusing her ex-husband Kurt Iswarienko of refusing to pay the money he owes to the late actress, Us Weekly can exclusively report. https://t.co/PwPDi0GZLU  Us Weekly (@usweekly) November 27, 2025

Read more: Shannen Doherty Filed For Divorce From Her Husband One Day Before She Died

Shannen Doherty Secured $9M Malibu Mansion

The original settlement outlined what each person would keep. Doherty was awarded her $9 million Malibu mansion, all the furniture inside, several bank and retirement accounts, her SAG producer's pension plan, and full ownership of her production company.

She also kept all of her income from before and after the marriage, plus her past and future residuals from "Beverly Hills," "90210" and "Charmed."

According to Yahoo, she was also granted a Salvador Dali painting and three cars, including a 1979 Ford pickup.

Iswarienko received the airplane after buying out her share, his bank accounts, his business interests, and various work-related items.

Doherty shared in her final court declaration that her worsening health left her unable to work. "As a result of my recurrent health issues, I have been largely unable to work and have no future employment prospects," she wrote.

She explained that most of her income came from older projects and that earnings would drop once "Charmed" left streaming platforms in mid-2024.

Doherty filed for divorce from Iswarienko in 2023. Before her death, she shared that she wished for her ashes to be scattered in Malibu, a place she said reminded her of special times with her father.
Support Us

Your Support will ensure EPWs financial viability and sustainability.

The EPW produces independent and public-spirited scholarship and analyses of contemporary affairs every week. EPW is one of the few publications that keep alive the spirit of intellectual inquiry in the Indian media.

Often described as a publication with a social conscience, EPW has never shied away from taking strong editorial positions. Our publication is free from political pressure, or commercial interests. Our editorial independence is our pride.

We rely on your support to continue the endeavour of highlighting the challenges faced by the disadvantaged, writings from the margins, and scholarship on the most pertinent issues that concern contemporary Indian society.

Every contribution is valuable for our future.
More than 16,000 has poured into a GoFundMe appeal within 24 hours after a fundraiser was launched to help farmers whose tractors were seized during the Budget Day protest in London  despite protesters insisting they had followed police instructions throughout.

In the online appeal, Lincolnshire farmer Taron Lee says Metropolitan Police officers told farmers attending Wednesdays autumn budget demonstration that they were permitted to park their tractors.

He insists they cooperated fully, followed instructions and behaved peacefully while standing up for their livelihoods, only to have their machinery confiscated afterwards and several individuals arrested. According to him, the treatment of those involved has caused outrage across the farming community.

In his appeal, Lee described the actions taken against farmers as an absolute disgrace, arguing that a tractor is not a symbol or a prop but the essential tool of a working farmer.

Removing one, he says, has the same effect as taking a builders tools or a lorry drivers truck  it immediately stops that person from working, earning and sustaining their business. For rural communities already under strain, he says, the consequences are devastating.

Lee stresses that farming is a community built on solidarity, where the difficulties faced by one farmer are felt by many others. His fundraiser aims to cover the costs of recovering the seized tractors so those affected can return to work and continue feeding the nation.

He has since updated the appeal, saying: Weve identified the owner of the fendt tractor and all donations are warmly welcomed. This really dose show when one of us is hit were all hit.

He says the response so far  with donations reaching five figures within a day  shows how strongly the public feels about fairness, food security and the pressures facing British agriculture.

Lee adds that every contribution helps lighten the load, urging supporters to donate or share the appeal. As he puts it: We stand together. We look after our own.
North Wales is preparing to transform its home-grown food production with the launch of a pioneering Machinery Ring designed to give farmers and growers affordable access to essential equipment and accelerate the regions horticultural growth.

The model, widely used in Scotland and parts of Europe but still relatively new to Wales, has the potential to benefit dozens of producers looking to expand or diversify.

Led by Menter Mon, the initiative brings together the Local Food Partnerships of Anglesey, Gwynedd, Conwy and Denbighshire in a coordinated push to increase the supply of locally grown fruit and vegetables to public sector kitchens, retailers and the hospitality trade.

Backed by the Welsh governments Collaborative Grant Scheme, the project is now inviting growers to set out which machines they need most  from compact tractors and seeders to composting and harvesting equipment.

By pooling machinery and making it available on a flexible, shared basis, the scheme removes one of the biggest financial barriers facing small and medium-sized horticultural producers: the high cost of purchasing specialist equipment outright.

David Wylie, project manager at Menter Mon, said the model offers a practical, low-risk route into horticulture and gives farmers a viable alternative to major capital investment. We want to hear exactly what equipment they need and will use, he added.

The Machinery Ring builds on successful pilots such as Conwys fresh broccoli supply chain trial and aligns closely with national priorities, including the Community Food Strategy and the Universal Primary Free School Meals, which is increasing demand for Welsh produce.

The project will also work with the Wales Horticulture Cluster to provide technical support, skills training and access to sector networks.

Debbie Handley, Wales Horticulture Cluster Lead, said growers were facing some of the toughest operating conditions in decades, citing rising costs, labour shortages and pressure to meet local market demand.

She described the Machinery Ring as both timely and practical, enabling producers to trial specialist machinery, reduce overheads and improve efficiency.

It will help both new entrants and established businesses strengthen their resilience and contribute to a more secure, sustainable Welsh food system, she said. This is a significant step forward for horticulture in North Wales.

Grower input gathered through Lantra will shape how the Machinery Ring is structured to ensure fair access and long-term viability. The project team will also explore collaboration with machinery rings elsewhere in the UK and with social enterprise models to maximise its reach.

The launch coincides with the final days of the Welsh Governments Agricultural Diversification and Horticulture Scheme, which remains open until 5 December for farmers and growers looking to establish or expand commercial horticultural ventures.
Would you choose to go back in time and change the direction of your life if given an opportunity? At first, the idea of making amends and changing destiny may seem overwhelming. Nonetheless, we are engrossed in compelling stories of vengeance within the alluring world of K-dramas, where people travel through time to pursue justice with such skill and resolve that it is hard not to support them.





The characters in these gripping K-dramas set out on a mission to change their fates, resolutely negotiating the difficulties of time travel. Their stories unfold with twists and turns that keep viewers on the edge of their seats as they attempt to right past wrongs and forge a new path. We are reminded of the strength of redemption and the resiliency of the human spirit as we observe their hardships, victories, and the complex web of ramifications that changing the past may bring. We are prompted to consider our own decisions and the potential to bravely and resolutely shape our futures through these stories of second chances and change.





Here are eight Korean dramas where the characters travel through time in a quest for revenge:

Kairos

Cast: Shin Sung-rok, Lee Se-young, Ahn Bo-hyun , Nam Gyu-ri, Kang Seung-yoon







Cast: Shin Sung-rok, Lee Se-young, Ahn Bo-hyun , Nam Gyu-ri, Kang Seung-yoon

Kairos follows Kim Seo-jin, a successful and workaholic construction company director, whose life collapses when his young daughter is kidnapped and his wife dies by suicide shortly after. At the brink of despair, he unexpectedly makes contact with Han Ae-ri but she lives one month in the past. Seo-jin begs Ae-ri to help him prevent the tragedy that has already happened in his timeline, while Ae-ri searches for her own missing mother and realises that saving Seo-jins family may also uncover the truth behind her own crisis.





Tunnel

Tunnel follows detective Park Gwang-ho, whose life changes when he investigates a serial homicide case. While chasing the culprit, he passes through a tunnel while takes him to 30 years in the future, where he meets his new partner, Kim Seon-jae. The detective duo work together to solve the unsolved murders that happened 30 years ago and catch the criminal.





Gods Gift: 14 Days

Cast: Lee Bo-young, Cho Seung-woo, Kim Tae-woo, Jung Gyu-woon, Kim Yoo-bin







Gods Gift: 14 Days is an emotionally charged thriller that follows Kim Soo-hyun, a mother whose daughter gets kidnapped and murdered. However, she finds the ability to go back in time two weeks before the event and save her daughter. She gets help from former cop Ki Dong-chan. As they try to prevent Soo-hyun's daughter's death, they uncover secrets even mor sinister. Cast: Lee Bo-young, Cho Seung-woo, Kim Tae-woo, Jung Gyu-woon, Kim Yoo-bin

Marry My Husband

Perfect Marriage Revenge

Reborn Rich

Sisyphus: The Myth

Again My Life

Cast: Choi Jin-hyuk, Yoon Hyun-min, Lee Yoo-youngPark Min-young, Na In-woo, Song Ha-yoon, Lee Yi-kyungMarry My Husband follows Kang Ji-won who is timid and has always wanted love since the death of her father. She has constantly been manipulated by her best friend Jang Soo-mi and her husband Park Min-hwan and has been working herself to the bone, both at work and at home but is constantly looked down upon by her co-workers, mother-in-law and her husband. She finds out that she has a terminal illness with only a few months left to live. The ultimate betrayal comes when she learns that her friend and husband are having an affair and are anticipating her death to collect her insurance. She is also pushed to death by her husband which leads her to travel back in time to the year 2013. She needs someone to pass on her fate and so she decides to take revenge on both her best friend and now boyfriend and plans to make Jang Soo-mi marry her husband with the help of her boss Yu Ji-hyuk.During its run time, Marry My Husband was globally popular due to the cast, especially Song Ha-yoons convincing performance as the negative character Jang Soo-mi. Many fans also praised Na In-woo and Park Min-young for their amazing chemistry.Jung Yoo-min, Sung HoonSince she can remember, Han Yi-joo has been manipulated and mistreated by her own family. Her wealthy adoptive parents and step-sister have always looked down on her, and her husband, whom she loves, turns out to have feelings for her sister. After a betrayal and an accident, Yi-joo wakes up from a coma to find herself back in time with a second chance at life. She meets the charming CEO and heir to a fortune, Seo Do-guk, who her step-sister is trying to win over. Seeing an opportunity, Yi-joo uses Do-guk as part of her plan, and he willingly agrees to be used however she wants. They enter into a contract marriage, setting off a chain of events that will impact everyone, including Yi-joo and Do-guk.Perfect Marriage Revenge is a fast-paced drama that includes all the elements of a melodrama: love and betrayal, seduction, and manipulation. However, what really drives the story forward is the strong chemistry between Jung Yoo Min and Sung Hoon. Not only do the two actors perfectly embody their characters, but their on-screen romance is also incredibly touching.Song Joong-ki, Lee Sung-min, Shin Hyun-beenYoon Hyun Woo, a devoted and sincere secretary to a powerful yet corrupt conglomerate family, is brutally murdered and falsely accused of a crime. His killers show no remorse, but little do they know that their actions will lead to their own downfall. Hyun Woo wakes up in the body of the family's youngest member, Jin Do Joo, with memories of his past and knowledge of the family's darkest secrets. He devises a plan to change the family's fate in the future, using his foresight to uncover the truth about the family and his own life.Song Joong Ki's performance in Reborn Rich truly steals the show. The actor skillfully embodies a complex storyline, portraying two different characters. His onscreen chemistry with Lee Sung Min, who portrays the ambitious patriarch Jin Yang Chul, creates unforgettable moments.Park Shin-hye, Cho Seung-wooIn the year 2020, Han Tae-sul is a brilliant engineer determined to uncover the truth behind his brothers murder. As he sets out on a dangerous journey to reveal hidden beings living in the world, he finds an ally in Kang Seo-hae. Seo-hae is a skilled individual from the future, specifically from the year 2035. She has the ability to effortlessly navigate the towering buildings of Seoul, is a proficient marksman, and can overpower opponents much larger than her. Her mission is to prevent Tae-sul from creating time travel technology that could lead to a war. Together, these two must break free from the time loop they are trapped in and uncover various conspiracies.Lee Joon-gi, Lee Geung-young, Kim Ji-eun and Jung Sang-hoonPublic prosecutor Kim Hee-woo has a strong sense of justice. But a hitman kills him after he uncovers some wrongdoings by a prominent and powerful politician. He is saved by an enigmatic Grim Reaper who transports him back in time, allowing him to experience his life anew and defeat the statesmen and the search for truth this time. He begins sorting through the individuals in his life, many of whom he believed to be allies but were actually foes, as he finds himself back in his 18-year-old self. Even with his opportunity, is this lone ranger strong enough to take on a conglomerate?Lee Joon Gi is a one-man show in this gripping and tense story. With a plot that moves quickly, you'll be on the edge of your seat as this one man attempts to bring down the corrupt system.
They alleged that various elements shown in the trailer and promotional videos seem to replicate major events from Sharma's military career, including classified counter-terrorism operations and undercover missions.

In its plea, the family members stated that a martyr is not a commercial commodity and his life cannot be recreated for profit, 'without truth, dignity and due permission.'









Besides violating the family's right to privacy, the film also portrays sensitive military strategies, claimed the family. They said that infiltration methods and operational details of the security forces have been revealed in Dhurandhar and argued that it can cause National Security concerns. Sharma's family also alleged that the makers did this without obtaining clearance or approving the script from the Indian Army's Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI). ADGPI is responsible for seeing how the Indian Army is represented in films and media.Citing these reasons, the family requested the Delhi High Court to halt the release of Ranveer Singh's film until they are allowed to watch it privately.

Meanwhile, filmmaker Aditya Dhar has already clarified that Dhurandhar is not based on Major Mohit Sharma. Ever since the trailer released, speculations had been going around its real-life connections, as the film is reportedly inspired by actual events. One such rumoured connection suggested that Ranveer Singh's character is linked to Major Mohit Sharma, who reportedly operated undercover as Iftikhar Bhatt and infiltrated Hizbul Mujahideen in the early 2000s.







In response to a question from Madhur Sharma, Mohit's brother, who had tagged him to confirm, Aditya wrote, "Hi, sir - our film Dhurandhar is not based on the life of brave heart Major Mohit Sharma AC(P) SM. This is an official clarification. I assure you, if we do make a biopic on Mohit sir in the future, we will do it with full consent and in complete consultation with the family, and in a way that truly honours his sacrifice for the nation and the legacy it has left for all of us."Major Mohit was posthumously honoured with the Ashoka Chakra, India's highest peacetime military decoration, for his ultimate sacrifice in 2009 during a fight with terrorists in the Kupwara sector of Jammu and Kashmir.

Dhurandhar will be released theatrically on December 5.

Late Major Mohit Sharma's parents have approached the Delhi High Court and sought an immediate stay on the release of Ranveer Singh and Aditya Dhar's Dhurandhar. The family alleged that the upcoming film draws heavy inspiration from the life of the Ashoka Chakra and Sena Medal awardee, without the permission of the family or the Indian Army.
Actor Suniel Shetty has opened up about why he rarely signs films from the South despite being a familiar name across industries. Speaking at the Lallantop Adda 2025 in Delhi, the Bollywood star revealed that while he regularly receives offers from filmmakers in Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada, most roles pitched to him fall into one category: villains.





According to Suniel, a trend has emerged in South cinema where Bollywood actors are frequently cast as antagonists to amplify the heros on-screen presence. I do get offers from the South, he said. But you will notice that most of them are negative roles. They want to cast the Hindi heroes as powerful from an antagonistic point of view. That may work for the audience, but its something I don't enjoy doing repeatedly.



The actor clarified that this pattern is the primary reason he turns down most such projects. However, he has made notable exceptions, especially when the project holds personal significance. Suniel revealed that he agreed to appear in Rajinikanths Darbar solely to fulfil a long-cherished dream. I did a film with Rajini sir only because I wanted to tick that box of having worked with him, he said, calling it a milestone moment in his career.





He recently appeared in a cameo in the Tulu film Jai, which has become one of the most widely screened Tulu releases in recent years. Suniel took up the role purely to support regional cinema from Karnataka. I wanted to encourage the film and my language, he shared.





Discussing the evolving landscape of Indian cinema, Suniel added that language no longer limits a films success. He said, Today, there is no language barrier. If any barrier exists, its due to content. Good content crosses all boundaries.





On the work front, Suniel was seen in Hunter 2, Kesari Veer, and Nadaaniyan. He will next feature in the multi-starrer Welcome To The Jungle and is also gearing up for the highly anticipated Hera Pheri 3, expected to begin filming early next year.



Alos Read: Suniel Shetty Returns As Yeda Anna in Welcome To The Jungle






View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dulquer Salmaan (@dqsalmaan)

Also Read:

Dulquer Salmaan has lifted the curtain on his next Malayalam big screen outing I'm Game, and the first look already has fans in a frenzy. Unveiled on Friday, the poster presents Dulquer in a sharp suit, gripping a blood stained gun while surrounded by a ring of heavily armed men and women. All of them have their weapons trained on him, creating an intense standoff that hints at the films heightened action grammar. The imagery signals an international gangster canvas with a glossy, big budget sensibility, something Malayalam cinema has been stepping into with newfound confidence.The film is directed by Nahas Hidhayath, who made a striking debut with the blockbuster RDX, a film that showcased his appetite for craft heavy action. I'm Game marks Dulquers grand return to Malayalam cinema after his 2023 release King of Kotha. In the years since, the actor has shifted his focus outside Kerala, headlining projects across Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi. He was most recently seen in the Tamil period drama Kaantha, and he also has two Telugu films lined up. His decision to return home turf with a director known for slick violence has raised curiosity about where he intends to take his Malayalam career next.I'm Game carries a story conceived by Nahas Hidhayath, with the screenplay shaped by Bilal Moidu, Ismail Aboobacker, and Sajeer Baba. The dialogues have been written by Shahabas Rasheed and Aadarsh Sukumaran. The combination suggests a film built on muscular action, dense character dynamics, and a narrative that swings between personal stakes and globe trotting violence. The technical team brings together some of the most in demand names in the Malayalam industry. Jimshi Khalid handles cinematography, known for bringing texture and visual depth to action settings. Jakes Bejoy is composing the score after a strong run of high energy soundtracks. Chaman Chakko edits, Ajayan Chalissery designs the production, and Anbariv helm the action choreography. Their work in Tamil and Malayalam industries has often set the gold standard for combat design.Adding to the intrigue is the films cast line up. Antony Varghese Pepe is set to appear in a significant role alongside Dulquer, bringing his own brand of raw intensity to the mix. The project also marks the Malayalam acting debut of celebrated Tamil filmmaker Mysskin, an unpredictable performer whose eccentric energy could add an entirely new layer of flavour. Tamil actor Kathir and Samyuktha Viswanathan are also part of the key cast, pointing to a film that aims to blend Malayalam rooted storytelling with pan Indian appeal.Produced by Dulquer and Jom Varghese under Wayfarer Films, I'm Game is slated for an April 2026 theatrical release across Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, and Kannada. With this, Dulquer positions the film as a large scale multi language action event. Over the last few years, he has curated a diverse career that moves between mainstream Hindi cinema, tier one Tamil productions, and Telugu content that leans into mass sensibilities. I'm Game appears to be his attempt to merge that larger stardom with the strong craft base of Malayalam cinema.There is also a broader industry context at play. Malayalam filmmakers are increasingly experimenting with international scale storytelling, and stars like Dulquer and Tovino Thomas have been pushing the envelope in genre cinema. With its glossy gangster tonality, stylised violence, and global criminal underworld backdrop, I'm Game sits comfortably within this emerging wave. If the finished film delivers on the promise of the first look, it could emerge as one of the more ambitious Malayalam action titles of the decade.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - November 27, 2025) - CENTURION MINERALS LTD. (TSXV: CTN) ("Centurion" or the "Company") announces that further to its November 14, 2025 news release regarding its application to the British Columbia Securities Commission (as its Principal Regulator) for a management cease trade order (the "MCTO"), the Company wishes to clarify that the reason for the anticipated delay in its annual filings was solely related to payment of outstanding fees owed to its auditor. These fees have since been paid, and the audit has commenced.

For further details, please refer to the Company's news release dated November 14, 2025.

About Centurion Minerals Ltd.

Centurion Minerals Ltd. is a Canadian-based company with a focus on precious mineral asset exploration and development in the Americas. Centurion can earn a 100% interest in the Casa Berardi West Gold Project which is located in the prolific gold-producing, greenstone belt of the central Abitibi Subprovince of north-eastern Ontario.

"David G. Tafel"

CEO and Director

FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This press release contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "forward-looking information") within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information is generally identifiable by use of the words "believes," "may," "plans," "will," "anticipates," "intends," "could", "estimates", "expects", "forecasts", "projects" and similar expressions, and the negative of such expressions. Forward-looking information in this press release includes statements about the expected filing of the annual filings and the grant of the MTCO.

Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Company's actual results, level of activity, performance, or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is based on the reasonable assumptions, estimates, analysis 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 including, without limitations, information based on the current status of the annual filings. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in 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, and there is no guarantee the annual filings will be made on the timeline currently expected or at all or that the MCTO will be granted. If the MCTO is not granted and/or if the annual filings are subject to additional delays, the securities of the Company could be subject to a cease trade order or other actions taken by the securities regulators and/or the stock exchange(s) on which the Company's securities are listed. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. All forward-looking information herein is qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement, and the Company disclaims any obligation to revise or update any such forward-looking information or to publicly announce the result of any revisions to any of the forward-looking information contained herein to reflect future results, events, or developments, except as required by law.

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/276233

SOURCE: Centurion Minerals Ltd.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - November 27, 2025) - KO Gold Inc. (CSE: KOG) ("KO Gold" or the "Company") announces that it has entered into debt settlement agreements (the "Settlement Agreements") to settle outstanding debts owed to certain creditors totaling $493,471.24, including outstanding fees owed to management and contractors working for KO Gold (the "Debt Settlement"). Pursuant to the Settlement Agreements, the Company has agreed to issue an aggregate of 2,467,356 common shares at a deemed price of $0.20 per common share to settle the debts.

Securities issued pursuant to the Settlement Agreements will have a statutory hold period of four months and one day in accordance with applicable securities laws. Following closing of the Debt Settlement, the Company's balance sheet will be strengthened through the elimination of the applicable liabilities

Two insiders of the Company will be participating in the Debt Settlement, settling an aggregate of $282,871.24 of indebtedness through the issuance of 1,414,356 common Shares. Such participation constitutes a "related party transaction" under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company is relying on the exemptions from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 contained in sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a), respectively, on the basis that the fair market value of the insider participation does not exceed 25% of the Company's market capitalization.

About KO Gold Inc.

KO Gold is a Canadian junior exploration company listed on the CSE under "KOG". The Company's strategy is to acquire and explore highly prospective gold properties within the Otago Gold District in New Zealand and has an ongoing program of permit exploration and drilling. KO Gold presently has four 100%-owned exploration permits and one exploration permit under application (Carrick Range) within the Otago Gold District for a combined land package of 400 km2. The Company's Smylers Gold, Hyde and Glenpark EPs are located adjacent to OceanaGold's Macraes Gold Mine and the Carrick EP hosts the historic Carrick Goldfield which holds promise as a significant gold deposit near Santana Minerals' Bendigo-Ophir Gold Project. The Company also has an NSR on three additional permits including Garibaldi, Raggedy Range, and Rough Ridge South totaling 340 km2. KO Gold has on and drilling on its permits in the Otago Gold District over the past five years including RC and diamond drilling on its Smylers Gold EP.

The CSE has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release. 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 news release.

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation, including statements with respect to the completion of the Debt Settlement, the issuance of the commons shares, the receipt of any required regulatory approvals, and the anticipated effects of the Debt Settlement on the Company's financial position and business strategy. Forward-looking information is based on the reasonable assumptions, estimates, expectations, analyses and opinions of management made in light of its experience and perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, as well as other factors that management believes to be relevant and reasonable in the circumstances.

Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual events, results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. These risks, uncertainties and factors include, among others: the risk that the Debt Settlement may not be completed on the terms or timeline currently contemplated, or at all; the risk that required regulatory or stock exchange approvals will not be obtained or will be obtained subject to conditions; general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; risks related to exploration and mining operations; volatility in commodity prices; risks related to the Company's ability to maintain stock exchange listings; risks related to future financing requirements; and the risk factors discussed in the Company's continuous disclosure documents available under the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is made as of the date hereof and is expressly qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, except as required by applicable securities laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/276232

SOURCE: KO Gold Inc.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - November 27, 2025) - Trimera Metals Corp. (CSE: TRM) (OTCQB: TRMMF) (FSE: O2S) ("Trimera" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has changed its name from "Trimera Metals Corp." to "United Critical Minerals Corp." and its Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE") ticker symbol from "TRM" to "UCM" (together, the "Name and Symbol Change").

The Company's common shares (the "Common Shares") will commence trading under its new name and with a new CUSIP and ISIN number on the CSE at market open on December 1, 2025. For further details, please see the CSE's bulletin dated November 27, 2025.

In connection with the Name and Symbol Change, the following new CUSIP (91016A108) and ISIN (CA91016A1084) numbers have been assigned to the Common Shares. No action is required to be taken by shareholders with respect to the Name and Symbol Change. Outstanding Common Share and warrant certificates bearing the former name of the Company are still valid and will not be affected by the Name and Symbol Change.

The Company's CEO and Director, Patrick Donnelly, states, "due to the high demand for critical metals in the United States, we intend to focus on securing top-tier projects to support the new geopolitical strategy in the west. We have already devoted substantial resources to exploring critical metals projects, including our Tahlo Lake project, and believe that our name change to "United Critical Minerals Corp." better reflects our strategic shift and encapsulates our focus on critical metals."

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

Patrick Donnelly

CEO & Director

About United Critical Minerals Corp.

United Critical Minerals Corp. is a junior exploration company focused on the exploration, development, and advancement of its Tahlo Lake property, located in south-central British Columbia. Tahlo Lake is comprised of four wholly owned mining claims totaling approximately 1,692 hectares.

For more information, please consult the Company's filings, available at www.sedarplus.ca.

Cautionary Note on Forward-Looking Information

The information in this news release includes certain information and statements about management's view of future events, expectations, plans and prospects that constitute forward-looking statements and includes statements respecting: the effective date of the Name and Symbol Change; the Company's intention to focus on securing top-tier projects to support the new geopolitical strategy in the west; and the Company's strategic shift and focus on critical metals. These statements are based upon assumptions that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Because of these risks and uncertainties and as a result of a variety of factors, the actual results, expectations, achievements or performance may differ materially from those anticipated and indicated by these forward-looking statements. Any number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements as well as future results. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurances that the expectations of any forward-looking statements will prove to be correct. Except as required by law, the Company disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions, changes in factors affecting such forward-looking statements or otherwise.

The Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed this press release and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO THE UNITED STATES

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/276245

SOURCE: Trimera Metals Corp.
Hangzhou, China--(Newsfile Corp. - November 27, 2025) - During the "2025 Joint Emergency Rescue Drill for Concurrent Multi-Type Accidents in Complex Scenarios," the DEEP Robotics quadruped robot served as a core rescue force. Leveraging its superior mobility across complex terrain, advantages in multi-unit collaboration, and real-time data transmission capabilities, it provided a reliable technical pathway and practical model for building a new-generation emergency rescue system.

Figure: X30 Robot Dog Appears at Fire Drill Site

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8457/276244_6ed86b62a438da85_001full.jpg

I. Pushing Limits: Replacing Human Labor in High-Risk Post-Disaster Zones

In scenarios simulating multiple complex accidents-including scaffold collapses, diesel tanker fires, and acrylic sphere tank leaks-the DEEP Robotics X30 robot dog demonstrated exceptional mobility across complex terrain, relying on its advanced quadruped bionic structure and intelligent gait control system. It steadily climbed 45 sloped stairs, nimbly navigated through hollow scaffold structures, and quickly traversed rubble-filled areas and other hazardous zones difficult or impossible for humans to access, achieving rapid arrival at the disaster's core area.

Furthermore, thanks to its IP67 industrial-grade protection and modular payload architecture, it operated continuously and stably in harsh conditions like accumulated water and dense dust, enabling integrated indoor-outdoor reconnaissance and all-weather response.

Figure: X30 Robot Dog Carrying Out Tasks at the Drill Site

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8457/276244_6ed86b62a438da85_002full.jpg

With its high mobility and strong environmental adaptability, the DEEP Robotics robot dog effectively broke through the rescue dilemma of "personnel cannot reach, and information cannot be transmitted." Its unmanned advance operations significantly reduce exposure risks for frontline rescuers, providing solid, reliable technical support for reconnaissance and search-and-rescue tasks in complex disaster environments.

II. Information Hub: Comprehensive Perception Enables Digitalized Decision-Making

Inside the drill command center, large screens displayed real-time 3D models of the disaster site transmitted by the robots-built by the X30 robot dogs using long-range, line-of-sight video transmission and full-scene scanning technologies. Leveraging a broadband self-organizing network system, the robot dogs relayed real-time environmental parameters and the status of trapped individuals, providing intuitive visual decision-making support for the command center. Through the coordinated operation of a personnel search-and-rescue platform and facial recognition cameras, the system successfully pinpointed the locations of all seven trapped persons, achieving a fully digitalized workflow from environmental perception to personnel localization.

Figure: X30 Robot Dog Equipped with Intelligent Reconnaissance Module

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8457/276244_6ed86b62a438da85_003full.jpg

While completing rescue tasks, the DEEP Robotics robot dogs simultaneously performed post-disaster site data collection and preservation, offering comprehensive data support for subsequent rescue deployment and incident analysis. This rescue model, deeply integrating intelligent perception and digital reconstruction, effectively overcomes the bottlenecks of information gaps and decision-making delays in traditional rescue efforts. It significantly enhances command precision and execution efficiency, showcasing an important technological trend towards data-driven, intelligent decision-making in emergency response.

III. Proven in Realistic Drills: Solid Capabilities Handling Multi-Scenario Challenges

DEEP Robotics' robot dogs have consistently proven their reliability in numerous realistic drills. During the "Emergency Mission 2024" joint rescue exercise for super typhoon preparedness and major flood disaster response, the X30 quadruped robot collaborated with drones to conduct reconnaissance at a simulated chemical deflagration site, transmitting critical real-time data such as temperature and gas concentration, providing vital information for command decisions.

Figure: X30 Robot Dog Performing Reconnaissance Tasks During the "Emergency Mission 2024" Rescue Exercise

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8457/276244_6ed86b62a438da85_004full.jpg

In Erdos, Inner Mongolia drill simulating a natural gas pipeline leak and explosion, a scout robot dog was the first to enter the core leak zone, performing environmental detection and situational awareness tasks, greatly improving emergency handling efficiency and effectively ensuring firefighter safety.

These successful applications across different regions and scenarios demonstrate that DEEP Robotics' smart firefighting solutions possess the adaptability to handle various disaster environments. Its technology not only achieves autonomous operation and multi-robot collaboration in complex, unstructured settings but has also significantly enhanced the safety, precision, and response speed of rescue operations in realistic drills.

Currently, DEEP Robotics' robot dogs have been deployed at scale by fire and rescue departments in multiple provinces and cities across China. As of 2025, its market share in the domestic firefighting robot sector exceeds 90%. This outstanding performance not only validates the core value and irreplaceability of intelligent equipment in extreme rescue environments but also sets a replicable, scalable success benchmark for the digital and intelligent transformation of the emergency response industry.

With the accelerated advancement of smart firefighting initiatives, DEEP Robotics' firefighting solutions are demonstrating broad market prospects and commercial potential. As an industry leader, DEEP Robotics, with its leading technological advantages and extensive practical experience, has carved out a new growth track within the emergency safety industry, continuously contributing innovative strength to the protection of people's lives and property.

At disaster rescue sites, traditional firefighting models consistently face the dual challenges of "hazardous environments" and "low efficiency": complex and changing conditions, severely lacking on-site information. Rescue personnel must confront multiple threats like high temperatures, thick smoke, and toxic gases while carrying heavy equipment for high-intensity work. This not only involves extreme safety risks but also severely hampers overall rescue efficiency due to delayed information transmission and limited endurance.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/276244

SOURCE: China Newswire


EQS Newswire / 28/11/2025 / 04:00 CET/CEST

Experience the Ultimate Preview: the Porsche Design Tower Bangkok Show Suite STUTTGART, GERMANY / BANGKOK, THAILAND - Media OutReach Newswire - 28 November 2025 - Porsche Design Tower Bangkok, Asia's first ultra-luxury residence with automotive-DNA, proudly announces the official opening of its exclusive Show Suite. This experience is tailor-made for those appreciating unparalleled design, exclusivity and innovation. A landmark collaboration between the exclusive lifestyle brand Porsche Design and the prominent Thai real estate developer Ananda Development, it redefines one-of-a-kind urban living, blending automotive design expertise with uncompromising functionality.





The Show Suite is more than a conventional show unit; it's an invitation to experience a meticulously crafted simulation of life within the Porsche Design Tower Bangkok, the future architectural masterpiece located on Sukhumvit 38 in the vibrant Thonglor area of Thailand's capital city. This journey into ultra-luxury is an exclusive offering for those whose refined taste seeks an experience beyond the conventional. Available exclusively by private appointment, this bespoke encounter unfolds as curated discoveries, allowing prospective owners to feel, imagine, and connect with the unique Porsche Design living vision. Each step reveals the project's essence, from its strategic urban placement to the innovative integration of personal passions within a private sanctuary.



The tour culminates in a glimpse of a multi-level residence, accessed via a private lift directly into the villa. This expansive living environment exemplifies engineered elegance. Within, one discovers thoughtfully designed spaces for entertaining, privacy, a sophisticated culinary zone, wellness areas, and a private swimming pool. A unique technological marvel allows guests to experience future views, dynamically adapting to time and perspective, offering a personalized preview.



"The opening of our Show Suite marks a pivotal moment in redefining ultra-luxury living in Bangkok," stated Chanond Ruangkritya, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ananda Development. "Within this exclusive experience, discerning individuals can grasp the vision behind bringing the first Porsche Design Tower to Asia - a testament to Thailand's emergence as a global luxury hub and Ananda's commitment to delivering architectural masterpieces that transcend expectations."



Stefan Buescher, Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche Lifestyle Group, added, "Just like the Porsche Design Tower Bangkok sets new standards, the Show Suite offers an unparalleled experience. It is the ultimate physical manifestation of our design principles, meticulously crafted to offer an immersive journey where every detail, material choice, and design element comes to life to represent the authentic Porsche lifestyle."



With only 22 units, Porsche Design Tower Bangkok offers an unparalleled opportunity to own architectural history. Each residence embodies Professor F. A. Porsche's philosophy of 'optimizing the function while reducing the form to the essentials,' creating a timeless and visionary living space.



The Show Suite is available for private viewing by appointment. To arrange your exclusive visit, please contact sales@pdtowerbangkok.com or visit pdtowerbangkok.com .



Hashtag: PorscheDesignTowerBangkok

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Porsche Design Tower Bangkok The Porsche Design Tower Bangkok sets a new standard for ultra luxury living with its limited offering of just 22 exclusive residences. Located on Sukhumvit 38, one of Bangkok's most prestigious addresses, this groundbreaking project is the first of its kind in Asia and the third globally, following Miami and Stuttgart. Designed for ultra-high-net-worth individuals seeking unparalleled exclusivity, the tower offers residents the perfect blend of serene living in the coveted Thonglor neighborhood, with easy access to the city's most vibrant attractions and amenities. Among its standout features are the customizable "Passion Spaces"-private, in-unit garages that allow residents to showcase their prized car collections, creating a truly unique living experience.





News Source: Ananda Development

28/11/2025 Dissemination of a Financial Press Release, transmitted by EQS News .

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.



Media archive at www.todayir.com

View original content: EQS News
Petra Diamonds Limited - Board and Senior Management Changes

PR Newswire

LONDON, United Kingdom, November 28

28 November 2025 LSE: PDL

Petra Diamonds Limited

(" Petra", or the " Company")

Board and Senior Management Changes

Petra today announces a series of changes to the Company's Board following the Company's recent Annual General Meeting (the " AGM"), held on 27 November 2025, and the appointment of Vivek Gadodia and Juan Kemp as permanent Joint Chief Executive Officers of the Company.

Appointment of new Non-Executive Director

Following shareholder approval of Resolution 9 at the AGM, Mr Kushal Kumar was appointed to the Board as a Non-Executive Director of the Company with immediate effect.

Mr Kumar has over 30 years' experience in the international financial markets across Investment Management, Credit Markets and Corporate Banking. This included Lehman Brothers in London (European Credit Markets, April 2001- January 2008), JP Morgan & Bank of America in Hong Kong (Asian Bond and Loan markets, 1997-2001) and American Express Bank in India (Corporate Banking for India and Indonesia, 1993-1997).

In 2008, he co-founded Numen Capital LLP which managed investments into European Special Situations and co-managed this until 2015 when he sold his stake in the business. Additionally, he operates as a private investor where he is engaged either as a board member and/or as an active shareholder at several UK/European early-stage companies across challenger banks and IP-based engineering ventures being spun out of UK universities.

He is currently active on the advisory board for UK-based asset managers and a UHNWI family office. He is also involved in developing and growing an algorithmic oriented business for Investment Management into liquid asset classes.

Mr Kumar is also a member of the Kyma Capital Limited Advisory Board. Kyma Capital is a major holder of both the Company's bonds and shares, and therefore by virtue of his role at Kyma Capital, Mr Kumar is not considered independent.

Departure of Bernard Pryor and Alex Watson

As announced on 20 November 2025, Bernard Pryor, Senior Non-Executive Director, Chair of the Nomination and Remuneration Committees has resigned in order to focus time on his executive roles.

Alex Watson has stepped down from the Board in her role as Board Observer.

As a result of these changes, new appointments will be made as below:

- Senior Independent Non-Executive Director: With effect from 27 November 2025 Lerato Molebatsi is Senior Independent Non-Executive Director.

- Remuneration Committee Chair: With effect from 27 November 2025 Jose Manuel Vargas is Chair of the Remuneration Committee.

- Nomination Committee Chair: With effect from 27 November 2025 Jose Manuel Vargas is Chair of the Nomination Committee.

Appointment of Vivek Gadodia and Juan Kemp as Joint Chief Executive Officers

Having taken on the role of joint interim Chief Executive Officers in February of this year, Vivek Gadodia and Juan Kemp will continue in their roles in a permanent capacity, with Vivek focusing on the corporate side of the business, and Juan on operations. They have not been appointed as Directors of the Company and will continue to report to the Board on a regular basis

Jose Manuel Vargas,Non-Executive Chair of Petra Diamonds commented:

"I would like to welcome Kushal to the Board of Petra; we believe his experience and skill set will complement those of our existing Directors as we look to take the Company forward.

On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Bernie for his contributions and the insight he has provided from his extensive mining and resource experience in the variety of positions he held on the Board over the last six years. We wish him the very best for the future.

I would also like to thank Alex, whose input between July 2021 and December 2023 as a Non-Executive Director was highly valued as the Company navigated several challenges, and who continued to provide valuable guidance as a Board Observer from December 2023 to date. We wish her all the best.

Lastly, we are very pleased to have secured stability at the helm of the Company with the permanent positions of Vivek Gadodia and Juan Kemp as Joint Chief Executive Officers. We look forward to working with them as we look towards the delivery of our next strategic targets."

Vivek Gadodia and Juan Kemp,Joint Chief Executive Officers of Petra Diamonds commented:

"Over the last nine months we have delivered a streamlined, more resilient business as we looked to execute the refinancing of the Company. We look forward to steering the Company on a permanent basis as we continue our focus on the execution of our extension projects as we look to unlock value for our stakeholders in the short to medium term.

We will continue to report to the Board on a regular basis. We would like to thank both Bernie and Alex for their continued support and insights as we have navigated this difficult period, and look forward to working with the Board in its new structure and with the addition of Kushal Kumar's experience"

~ Ends ~

For further information, please contact:

Petra Diamonds, London

Julia Stone

Kelsey Traynor

Telephone: +44 (0)7495470187

investorrelations@petradiamonds.com

About Petra Diamonds Limited

Petra Diamonds is a leading independent diamond mining group and a supplier of gem quality rough diamonds to the international market. The Company's portfolio incorporates interests in two underground mines in South Africa (Cullinan Mine and Finsch).

Petra's strategy is to focus on value rather than volume production by optimising recoveries from its high-quality asset base in order to maximise their efficiency and profitability. The Group has a significant resource base which supports the potential for long-life operations.

Petra strives to conduct all operations according to the highest ethical standards and only operates in countries which are members of the Kimberley Process. The Company aims to generate tangible value for each of its stakeholders, thereby contributing to the socio-economic development of its host countries and supporting long-term sustainable operations to the benefit of its employees, partners and communities.

Petra's Ordinary Shares are admitted to the equity shares (commercial companies) category of the FCA's Official List and are admitted to trading on the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange under the ticker "PDL". The Company's loan notes, due in 2026, are listed on Euronext Dublin (Irish Stock Exchange). For more information, visit www.petradiamonds.com .
Deepika and Ranveer star in the latest Experience Abu Dhabi film, exploring culture, creativity and connection in Abu Dhabi

ABU DHABI, UAE, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Experience Abu Dhabi, the destination brand of the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi, has announced Deepika Padukone as the newest regional brand ambassador. Deepika joins her husband, Bollywood Icon Ranveer Singh, who has been Experience Abu Dhabi's brand ambassador since 2023, officially making them the first Bollywood power couple to represent the destination together.

With her global appeal as a fan favourite for audiences in India and beyond, Deepika will share her journey through Abu Dhabi, showcasing the city as a destination rich in experiences, with something for everyone to see, do and discover.

The announcement of Deepika's ambassadorship came alongside the launch of a cinematic film series capturing her and Ranveer's journey through Abu Dhabi. Each episode reveals a different side of the emirate, from its culture and creativity to its sense of togetherness and adventure.

In Episode 1, the couple discovered Abu Dhabi's cultural landmarks, from the awe-inspiring Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to the captivating galleries of Louvre Abu Dhabi, while Episode 2 followed them on a lively day around the city - shopping, dining in style and making meaningful memories together.

The fun continues with the release of Episode 3: Art, Play & Paradise, the latest and final instalment in the brand's film series featuring the duo. In this new episode, Deepika and Ranveer spend a playful day at teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, before unwinding at the luxurious Bab Al Nujoom Hudayriyat Water Villas. The film captures their shared sense of wonder and the creative, joyful side of Abu Dhabi, a place where every experience feels personal and full of possibility.

As brand ambassador, Deepika will front upcoming campaigns spotlighting the emirate's vast experiences and seasonal offerings. Through brand films and storytelling, Deepika will invite audiences to explore Abu Dhabi. Whether opting for a slow, relaxing day kayaking in the mangroves or a jam-packed itinerary filled with adrenaline pumping adventures, there is something for everyone in Abu Dhabi.

To watch Deepika and Ranveer's latest brand films for the region, visit https://visitabudhabi.ae/en/campaign/ranveer-singh-deepika-padukone-in-abu-dhabi .

Feeling inspired? Visit: visitabudhabi.ae to plan your trip now.

About the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi:

The Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) drives the sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi's culture and tourism sectors and its creative industries, fuelling economic progress and helping to achieve Abu Dhabi's wider global ambitions.

By working in partnership with the organisations that define the emirate's position as a leading international destination, DCT Abu Dhabi strives to unite the ecosystem around a shared vision of the emirate's potential, coordinate effort and investment, deliver innovative solutions, and use the best tools, policies and systems to support the culture and tourism industries.

DCT Abu Dhabi's vision is defined by the emirate's people, heritage and landscape. We work to enhance Abu Dhabi's status as a place of authenticity, innovation, and unparalleled experiences, represented by its living traditions of hospitality, pioneering initiatives and creative thought.

For more information about the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi and the destination, please visit: dct.gov.ae and visitabudhabi.ae/

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2831938/Experience_Abu_Dhabi_1.jpg

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2831937/Experience_Abu_Dhabi_2.jpg

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2831939/Experience_Abu_Dhabi_3.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/lights-camera-abu-dhabi-deepika-padukone-becomes-experience-abu-dhabis-newest-brand-ambassador-alongside-bollywood-powerhouse-ranveer-singh-302627926.html
La Defense, 28th November 2025

INDIGO Group strengthens its presence in Brazil by acquiring 100% of INDIGO Brazil

INDIGO Group, a global player in parking and urban mobility solutions, announces the acquisition of the 44.39% stake held by Patria Infrastructure Fund III in INDIGO Brazil, thereby becoming the sole shareholder of the company.

This transaction reaffirms INDIGO Group's long-term commitment to the Brazilian market, where it has been operating for more than 15 years through INDIGO Brazil, one of the country's leading parking operators with a portfolio of over 320 sites across 24 states and 100 cities, including Sao Paulo, Porto Alegre, Rio de Janeiro, Curitiba, and Salvador.

In 2022, INDIGO Brazil merged with PareBem, a company fully owned by Infrastructure Fund III, an investment fund managed by Patria Investimentos, marking a key milestone in the consolidation of the sector and creating one of Brazil's largest parking operators.

Following this transaction, INDIGO Group will consolidate its control of INDIGO Brazil and continue to invest in its operational and digital transformation of its Brazilian subsidiary. The Group reaffirms its full confidence in the management team, recently strengthened and led by Thiago Piovesan, whose mission is to accelerate the growth in strategic markets and consolidate its position as a reference in sustainable and innovative urban mobility solutions in Brazil.

**********

INDIGO Group

Analyst / Investor contact: Press contact: Mathieu Barnavon Bruno Tallent ir@group-indigo.com bruno.tallent@group-indigo.com



About INDIGO Group S.A.

The INDIGO Group, which owns nearly 100% of INDIGO Infra, INDIGO Neo and INDIGOweel, is a global player in parking and urban mobility, managing 1.7 million parking spaces and their associated services in 10 countries.

INDIGO Group is indirectly 49.5% owned by Credit Agricole Assurances, 34.5% owned by Vauban Infrastructure Partners and 14.9% owned by MR Infrastructure Investment GmbH (MEAG), and held 0.1% of its own shares in treasury, with the Group's management owning the remainder of the shares.

www.group-indigo.com

About INDIGO Brazil

INDIGO has been present in Brazil since 2013, headquartered in Sao Paulo and Porto Alegre. The company manages over 320 parking facilities across Brazil, serving airports, hospitals, shopping centers, universities, and public spaces. INDIGO Brazil employs more than 4,500 people and is recognized for its operational excellence, client service, and commitment to sustainable urban mobility.

About Patria Investments

Patria is a global middle market alternative asset manager, specializing in key resilient and growth sectors. Patria is the leading asset manager in Latin America and has a strong presence in Europe through their extensive network of General Partners relationships. Their on-the-ground presence combines investment leaders, sector experts, company managers, and strategic relationships, allowing them to identify compelling investment opportunities accessible only to those with local proficiency. With 37 years of experience and over $50 billion in assets under management, Patria consistently delivers attractive returns through long-term investments, while promoting inclusive and sustainable development in the regions where they operate. Further information is available at www.patria.com .

Notice

The information contained herein has been included in good faith but is intended for general information purposes only. All reasonable precautions have been taken to ensure that the information contained herein is not false or misleading. It should not be relied upon for any specific purpose and no representation or warranty is made as to its accuracy or completeness. This press release should be read in conjunction with the information about INDIGO Group S.A. (the "Company") published on its website at www.group-indigo.com.

This press release does not constitute or form part of any offer or invitation to sell or issue, or any solicitation of any offer to purchase or subscribe for, any securities. Its preparation does not constitute a recommendation regarding securities. Nothing in this document may be used as the basis for entering into a contract or agreement.

This document may contain objective and forward-looking statements concerning the Company's financial condition, results of operations, business activities and expansion strategy. Although based on reasonable assumptions, these objectives and statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including factors not presently known to the Company or that it does not currently consider material, and there can be no assurance that the anticipated events will occur or that the stated objectives will be achieved. All forward-looking statements are the current expectations of the Company's management regarding future events and are subject to several factors and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. The information is current only as of the date hereof and the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. Additional information about the factors and risks that could affect the Company's financial results is included in the documents filed by the Group with the Autorite des Marches Financiers and available on its website at www.group-indigo.com.

Neither the Company nor any of its affiliates, officers or employees shall be liable for any loss, damage or expense arising out of access to or use of this document, including, without limitation, any lost profits, indirect, incidental, or consequential loss.

No part of this document may be sold or distributed for commercial purposes or modified.

------------------------

This publication embed "Actusnews SECURITY MASTER ".

- SECURITY MASTER Key:

yGtuZJVslWzKnm+daJptapOWamxjmWiXl2TLmWlpZZ/GaJ6WlW1kZsicZnJmmGZv

- Check this key: https://www.security-master-key.com.

------------------------



 Copyright Actusnews Wire

Receive by email the next press releases of the company by registering on www.actusnews.com, it's free

Full and original release in PDF format:https://www.actusnews.com/documents_communiques/ACTUS-0-95319-20251128-press-release-indigo-group-finalized-the-acquisition-of-indigo-brazil.pdf
Road Town, British Virgin Islands--(Newsfile Corp. - November 28, 2025) - LBank Exchange is pleased to announce the listing of MNEE USD Stablecoin (MNEE). Trading for the MNEE/USDT pair is now open at 10:00 UTC on November 25 2025.

Users are able to access the trading pair at https://www.lbank.com/trade/mnee_usdt

MNEE Listing Banner

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8831/276246_1f40c18524ce2bb9_001full.jpg

About MNEE USD Stablecoin (MNEE)

MNEE is a regulated institutional grade USD stablecoin designed for digital payments, remittances, gaming, microtransactions, and enterprise settlement. It is fully backed 1:1 by reserves consisting of US Treasury bills and cash or cash equivalents, held in the MNEE Reserves. Each MNEE is intended to maintain the value of one unit of the corresponding fiat currency it represents.

MNEE is issued by MNEE Limited, a licensed digital asset business incorporated in Antigua and Barbuda and regulated under a Class A license by the Financial Services Regulatory Commission. The project follows strict AML and KYC requirements, with all verified customers screened through independent third party providers, including checks for sanctions, PEPs, high risk entities, and other financial crime risks.



About MNEE Token

Token Name: MNEE

Token Type: Fiat backed stablecoin

Total Supply: Elastic, minted and redeemed on demand

Blockchain: 1Sat Ordinals, Ethereum ERC20, with multi chain expansion planned MNEE Tokens are fully backed by an equivalent amount of fiat or fiat denominated assets held in the MNEE Reserves. For every 1 MNEE issued and in circulation, MNEE holds 1 unit of the corresponding fiat currency or an equivalent amount of fiat denominated assets such as US Treasury bills and cash.

Token Utility



Payment and Settlement

MNEE serves as a digital representation of fiat for instant payments, e commerce, enterprise settlement, and cross border transfers.

Gasless UX on 1Sat

On the 1Sat Ordinals protocol, users can transact without managing gas tokens, enabling simple onboarding and smooth user experience.

Microtransactions

Supports low value, high frequency use cases like in app payments, tipping, content monetization, API metering, and streaming.

Remittances

Enables fast and low cost cross border remittances using a stable USD pegged asset backed by audited reserves.

Programmable Dollars

Can be integrated into applications, bots, and backends to power programmable workflows, subscriptions, and automated settlement.

Agent to Agent Payments

Provides a stable, programmable unit of account for AI agents and automated systems to transact with one another.

Learn More about MNEE USD Stablecoin (MNEE)

Website: https://www.mnee.io

Twitter:https://x.com/MNEE_cash

Telegram:https://t.me/mneeusd

About LBank

Founded in 2015, LBank is a leading global cryptocurrency exchange serving over 20 million registered users in 160 countries and regions. With a daily trading volume exceeding $10.5 billion and 10 years of operational history with zero security incidents, LBank is dedicated to providing a comprehensive, user-friendly trading experience. Through innovative trading solutions, the platform has enabled users to achieve average returns of over 130% on newly listed assets.

As the ultimate 100x Gems Hub, LBank has listed over 300 mainstream coins and more than 50 high-potential gems. Ranked No. 1 in 100x Gems, Highest Gains, and Meme Share, LBank leads the market with the fastest altcoin listings, unmatched liquidity, and industry-first trading guarantees, making it the go-to platform for crypto investors worldwide.

Follow LBank for Updates

Website: https://www.lbank.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/LBank_Exchange

Telegram: https://t.me/LBank_en

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

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

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/276246

SOURCE: LBank
SEOUL, South Korea, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- AUTOCRYPT, an end-to-end automotive cybersecurity solution provider, announced that in 2026 it would focus its efforts to establish a comprehensive cybersecurity framework in the MENA region, spanning vehicle manufacturing and charging.

The company's proprietary cybersecurity technologies for automotive infrastructure, including its Key Management System (KMS), Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) and Charging Station Management System (CSMS) for the connected mobility ecosystem will provide the base of the framework.

The broader MENA region has been a rapidly emerging hub for intelligent mobility and digital infrastructure, and AUTOCRYPT noted that the region is eager to adopt secure, next-generation transportation technologies.

"We are excited to expand into this region, which is quickly embracing next-gen cybersecurity architectures within electric vehicles." said Seokwoo Lee, Founder and CEO of AUTOCRYPT. "We have always adopted a holistic approach to vehicle cybersecurity with our proprietary automotive infrastructure technologies, securing every stage of the vehicle lifecycle. In 2026 we will reiterate our commitment to meeting the world's most rigorous automotive safety and quality standards."

AUTOCRYPT will demonstrate many of these solutions at the 2026 Consumer Electronic Show (CES) in Las Vegas from January 6-9, aiming to set new standards for secure, sustainable and intelligent transportation. Meetings are available by reservation only. To learn more, visit autocrypt.io.

About Autocrypt

AUTOCRYPT is the leading player in automotive cybersecurity. It specializes in the development and integration of security software and solutions for in-vehicle systems, V2X communications, Plug&Charge, and fleet management, paving the way towards a secure and reliable C-ITS ecosystem in the age of software-defined vehicles. Its comprehensive suite of automotive cybersecurity testing services and platforms includes the award-winning AutoCrypt CSTP, which supports automotive OEMs and suppliers in meeting regulatory standards ilke ISO/SAE 21434, UNECE WP.29 UN R155, and CRA.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2732284/PRN_AUTOCRYPT_Logo_250716_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/autocrypt-announces-plans-to-expand-electric-vehicle-cybersecurity-technologies-to-mena-region-in-2026-302627888.html
Johan Ekener is appointed new CEO of KVD and assumes the position November 28. He succeeds Jan Krepp who will leave KVD with this change.

Johan Ekener has held several operational and strategic roles in a number of companies within the Ratos Group.

"Johan Ekener brings a proven strategic expertise, a strong drive for profitability, and a clear focus on strengthening the company's market position. He brings strong leadership skills, marked by a structured approach and a focus on robust processes, qualities that are essential for driving KVD's next phase of growth and development. Ratos would like to extend a sincere thank you to Jan Krepp, who during his just over three years as CEO has carried out a successful restructuring process that has significantly improved the profitability in both Kvdbil and Forsbergs Fritidscenter. I wish him the best for the future," says Jacob Landen, Chairman of the Board of KVD.

"I am very proud to take on the role as CEO for KVD, Sweden's largest online marketplace offering valuation and broker services for second-hand vehicles. The company is entering a new phase, and I am looking forward to the opportunities it will bring for all stakeholders: customers, partners, employees and owners," says Johan Ekener.

About KVD

KVD consists of Kvdbil, Sweden's largest digital used vehicle broker and Forsbergs Fritidscenter, Sweden's largest mobile home retail. Each year, more than 23,000 used cars and 800 mobile homes are sold through KVD. KVD has approximately 250 employees, sales are SEK 1,600m in the rolling 12-month period ending October 2025. Ratos owns 100% of the company. www.kvd.se

For more information, please contact:

Katarina Gronwall, VP Communications & Sustainability

+46 70 300 35 38, katarina.gronwall@ratos.com

About Ratos

Ratos is a Swedish publicly listed business group consisting of 14 companies across three business areas: Construction & Services, Industry and Consumer. The Group operates mainly in the Nordic region, with net sales of SEK 32 billion and an adjusted EBITA of SEK 2.3 billion in 2024, and with a total workforce of around 10,900 employees. Ratos is headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden.

We have a distinct corporate culture and strategy - everything we do is based on our core values: Simplicity, Speed in Execution and It's All About People. We enable independent subsidiaries to excel by being part of something larger.

Image Attachments

Johan Ekener
Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
PORT VILA, Vanuatu , Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Vantage celebrates a double win at the Finance Magnates Awards 2025, taking home Fastest Growing Broker 2025 in Vietnam and Best Affiliate Program Broker 2025 in the UK. These awards were presented to the Vantage brand as part of the event's regional and national award categories.

The Finance Magnates Awards remain one of the industry's most respected benchmarks, determined through community voting and expert evaluation. Vantage's recognition highlights the brand's ongoing initiatives across its operations, supported by enhanced education resources and tools for both new and experienced traders. The Best Affiliate Program Broker award underscores the strength of Vantage's partner ecosystem, built on transparent tracking, competitive commissions, and dedicated client support.

"Our wins in Vietnam and the UK celebrates our team's dedication and our clients' trust - both of which drive our continued success," said Marc Despallieres, CEO of Vantage. "These accolades validate our efforts to understand client needs and elevate the trading experience across all markets."

Together, these awards reflect Vantage's strategy to enhance client experience, strengthen capabilities, and deliver innovation-driven trading solutions.

For more information about Vantage and its award-winning services, visit Vantage's website. Service availability varies by jurisdiction and entity.

About Vantage

Vantage Markets (or Vantage) is a multi-asset CFD broker offering clients access to a nimble and powerful service for trading Contracts for Difference (CFDs) products, including Forex, Commodities, Indices, Shares, ETFs, and Bonds.

With 16 years of market experience, Vantage goes beyond the role of broker, providing a reliable trading platform that provides clients access to trading opportunities.

trade smarter @vantage

RISK WARNING: CFDs are complex instruments and carry a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. Ensure you understand the risks before trading.

Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice, an offer, or solicitation of any financial products or services. The content is not intended for residents of any jurisdiction where such distribution or use would be contrary to local law or regulation. The awards described are brand-level recognitions and do not indicate the licensing permissions of any specific Vantage entity. Readers are advised to seek independent professional advice before making any investment or financial decisions. Any reliance you place on the information presented is strictly at your own risk.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2834084/Vantage_Celebrates_Dual_Wins_Finance_Magnates_Awards_2025_Vietnam_UK.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1745281/Vantage_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/vantage-celebrates-dual-wins-at-the-finance-magnates-awards-2025-in-vietnam-and-the-uk-302627997.html
BEIJING, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Wenzhou city in east China's Zhejiang Province has been commended twice by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) recently for its practical achievements in cultural heritage preservation, cultural and tourism integration, and driving sustainable development with culture.

The 2025 Maritime Silk Road Urban Cooperation & Development Conference and the International Travel Agents Conference was held recently in Wenzhou. The main session of the event held on Nov. 19 attracted 300-plus participants from home and abroad.

The Maritime Silk Road has long served as a vital bridge for trade, dialogue, and cultural exchanges between ancient China and the wider world, said Ernesto Ottone Ramirez, assistant director-general for culture at UNESCO in his video speech, noting that Wenzhou, a city thriving due to over a thousand years of maritime commerce, embodies this enduring spirit of openness and connectivity.

He fully affirmed Wenzhou's systematic practice in cultural heritage protection, integration of culture and tourism, and sustainable development through platforms such as the Maritime Silk Road Urban Cooperation & Development Conference.

A certificate from UNESCO was sent to Wenzhou from Paris on November 3, highly appreciating the firm commitment demonstrated by the city in protecting local traditional skills, and stating that Wenzhou is particularly outstanding in inheriting and protecting precious cultural heritage such as historical knowledge and ancient Chinese grammar, making important contributions to leveraging the positive role of culture in promoting sustainable development.

As a famous historical and cultural city in China, Wenzhou has a civilization history of over 5,000 years and an urban history of more than 2,210 years. It currently has 35 national, 159 provincial and 836 municipal intangible cultural heritage items.

In recent years, Wenzhou has actively promoted the creative transformation and innovative development of work related to intangible cultural heritage, establishing related workshops and international communication research centers, and propelling the integration of intangible cultural heritage into the education system, as well as the frequent appearance of local culture on the international stage, etc..

Original link: https://en.imsilkroad.com/p/348535.html

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2834176/photo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/xinhua-silk-road-why-unesco-commends-e-chinas-wenzhou-twice-within-just-half-a-month-302628001.html
Newcastle, Australia--(Newsfile Corp. - November 28, 2025) - All Four X 4 Spares, one of Australia's longest-serving 4WD parts and service providers, has expanded its workshop capabilities to deliver professional upgrades and fitting services tailored for rugged performance and compliance. The company now offers specialised GVM upgrades and premium installations such as Clearview towing mirrors, designed to help off-road drivers and tradespeople meet legal load limits while enhancing vehicle safety and handling.

All Four X 4 Spares Expands Professional 4WD Upgrade Services Across Australia

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8814/276252_8f694e73846afa0f_002full.jpg

The expansion comes at a time when more 4WD owners are modifying their vehicles to handle heavier loads, additional accessories, and frequent towing. A GVM upgrade is one of the most requested services, allowing drivers to legally increase their carrying capacity when adding bull bars, toolboxes, suspension kits, or towing a caravan or trailer. These upgrades ensure better stability, improved braking performance, and compliance with insurance and manufacturer requirements.

Many 4WD owners are unaware that weight from accessories can easily exceed factory limits, increasing safety risks and potential liability. "Our workshop provides complete end-to-end solutions that keep vehicles compliant and performing reliably under demanding conditions," said Drew Parsons, GVM Specialist of the company.

To support this growing demand, All Four X 4 Spares has strengthened its range of premium accessories, including Clearview towing mirrors - a popular choice among Australian travellers who require greater visibility when towing larger caravans and off-road trailers. The workshop also offers Offroad Animal bull bars and other performance components designed for touring, trade, and recreational use.

With more than 30 years of industry experience, All Four X 4 Spares continues to be a trusted destination for professional upgrades and 4WD parts across Australia. The company's Newcastle-based facility houses one of the largest 4WD parts inventories in the country, allowing them to supply reliable components to customers nationwide while maintaining competitive pricing through direct importing.

To learn more about professional 4WD upgrades or to schedule a GVM upgrade, visit All Four X 4 Spares at https://www.allfourx4.com.au/.

About All Four x 4 Spares

For over 30 years, All Four X 4 Spares has served Australia's 4WD community with high-quality parts, accessories, and workshop services. The company combines direct importing with an extensive local inventory to offer cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality. Its expert team provides guidance and fitting for a wide range of brands, helping 4WD enthusiasts and professionals maintain performance, safety, and compliance.

https://maps.app.goo.gl/3cw9TWKtPP3qq3VP9

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/276252

SOURCE: Plentisoft
FOR USE IN CE-MARK EUROPEAN COUNTRIES ONLY

GE HealthCare announces CE Mark for its Omni 128cm total body PET/CT, i a next-generation imaging system designed to advance precision care as well as cancer diagnosis, staging and treatment planning

a next-generation imaging system designed to advance precision care as well as cancer diagnosis, staging and treatment planning The new system is designed to accommodate head-to-thigh imaging in a single bed to improve workflow and efficiency, and enable a significant reduction in dose/scan time all important factors, especially for populations like pediatric patients

Built for both clinical and research excellence, the system may support the development and evaluation of new clinical pathways, novel PET tracers and emerging theranostic agents

GE HealthCare today announced CE Mark for its next-generation Omni 128cm total body positron emission tomography computed tomography (PET/CT) system,i a major milestone in its mission to advance precision care. Designed to advance cancer diagnosis, staging, therapeutic planning and treatment response monitoring, this innovative system represents a leap forward in molecular imaging capabilities and clinical efficiency.

As global cancer rates continue to rise projected to increase 77 percent by 2050ii the need for advanced imaging solutions has never been greater. The growing prevalence of cancer and emergence of investigational immunotherapies and targeted treatments have accelerated the demand for whole-body PET/CT imaging. GE HealthCare's new technology is built to meet this need, supporting theranostics and enabling clinicians to visualize, diagnose and monitor disease with impressive precision and speed.

"Our commitment to precision health is rooted in innovation that also aims to anticipate the future of care," says Jean-Luc Procaccini, President CEO, Molecular Imaging and Computed Tomography, GE HealthCare. "With our Omni 128cm total body PET/CT system, we're not just advancing imaging we're building a platform that empowers clinicians to deliver personalized, efficient and impactful care. The system also supports researchers in developing new clinical pathways. This milestone underscores our vision of enabling clinicians to achieve better outcomes through smarter, scalable solutions."

The new PET/CT system is designed to accommodate head to thigh imaging in a single bed position for a wide range of patients -compared to traditional systems that typically require five-to-six bed positions helping accelerate scan time and streamline workflows with intuitive artificial intelligence solutions to promote impressive clinical and operational efficiency. The system also enables ultra-low dose scans, multi-organ dynamic imaging as well as imaging of slow-decaying and low-activity tracers with the goal of enhancing both clinical practice and research, while improving operational efficiency across healthcare systems.

"PET/CT has transformed our ability to visualize disease at the cellular level, offering insights that were once out of reach," shares Prof. Michael Hofman, nuclear medicine physician and head of the PET/CT program at Melbourne's Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre. "With the Omni 128cm total body PET/CT system, we're entering a new phase of possibility one where faster scans and broader imaging coverage could redefine how we approach translational research and accelerate the development of targeted therapies."

The technology's ultra-high sensitivity and excellent spatial resolution are designed to support imaging across a wide range of clinical applications, including the monitoring of advanced prostate cancer treatment. Its non-invasive nature and ability to quantify biological processes at the cellular level make it a powerful tool that can help in early disease identification and treatment planning.

"This next-generation PET/CT technology is engineered to deliver exceptional sensitivity and resolution capabilities that could reshape how we approach molecular imaging," adds Ken Herrmann, MD, director and chair, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Universitatsklinikum Essen. "Its speed and precision open the door to new possibilities, from helping reduce the need for anesthesia in pediatric scans to enabling multi organ dynamic imaging and early, confident diagnoses. It's a powerful tool for advancing both research and patient care."

In addition, the Omni 128cm PET/CT system supports advanced research applications from developing new clinical pathways and novel PET tracers, to evaluating emerging theranostic agents accelerating innovation from bench to bedside. When combined with GE HealthCare's MIM software solutions, researchers and clinicians gain access to advanced quantitation tools and streamlined workflows that are not only important for helping enhance diagnostic confidence and operational efficiency, but also enable precise, personalized care that can help improve patient outcomes.

Furthermore, GE HealthCare's Omni 128cm system leverages NVIDIA's full stack accelerated computing platform technology to optimize the reconstruction process and reduce the time it takes to generate images and provide clinicians with the data necessary for fast, timely diagnoses.

2025 marks 25 years of PET/CT innovation at GE HealthCare. From launching the industry's first commercially available PET/CT system, Discovery LS, to this introduction of a new total body PET/CT solution, GE HealthCare has consistently delivered innovative solutions to meet today and tomorrow's most pressing needs. The company continues to drive a connected healthcare transformation, delivering integrated solutions that empower clinicians and help improve patient outcomes worldwide.

For more information on GE HealthCare's molecular imaging portfolio, visit gehealthcare.com. Healthcare system representatives from CE Mark-observing countries are also invited to explore Omni 128cm in person at the Radiological Society of North America's (RSNA) Annual Meeting in Chicago, November 30-December 3.

About GE HealthCare Technologies Inc.

GE HealthCare is a trusted partner and leading global healthcare solutions provider, innovating medical technology, pharmaceutical diagnostics, and integrated, cloud-first AI-enabled solutions, services and data analytics. We aim to make hospitals and health systems more efficient, clinicians more effective, therapies more precise, and patients healthier and happier. Serving patients and providers for more than 125 years, GE HealthCare is advancing personalized, connected and compassionate care, while simplifying the patient's journey across care pathways. Together, our Imaging, Advanced Visualization Solutions, Patient Care Solutions and Pharmaceutical Diagnostics businesses help improve patient care from screening and diagnosis to therapy and monitoring. We are a $19.7 billion business with approximately 53,000 colleagues working to create a world where healthcare has no limits.

GE HealthCare is proud to be among 2025 Fortune World's Most Admired Companies.

Follow us on LinkedIn, X, Facebook, Instagram, and Insights for the latest news, or visit our website https://www.gehealthcare.com for more information.

i Omni with 128cm AFOV is CE marked. Available for sale in EU member states countries. Not approved or cleared by the U.S. FDA. Not available for sale in the U.S. and other non-EU member states countries.

ii Global cancer burden growing, amidst mounting need for services." World Health Organization. Published 1 February 2024. Accessed 9 September 2024. https://www.who.int/news/item/01-02-2024-global-cancer-burden-growing--amidst-mounting-need-for-services

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251128007885/en/

Contacts:

GE HealthCare Media Contact:

Margaret Steinhafel

M +1 608 381 8829

Margaret.Steinhafel@gehealthcare.com
Paris, FRANCE, Nov. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --

North Atlantic France SAS successfully completes the acquisition of a controlling stake in Esso Societe Anonyme Francaise SA and of 100% of ExxonMobil Chemical France SAS, two independent companies of the ExxonMobil group

Successful completion of the acquisition by North Atlantic France SAS ("North Atlantic France") of the 82.89% controlling interest of ExxonMobil France Holding SAS ("ExxonMobil") in French listed company Esso Societe Anonyme Francaise SA ("Esso S.A.F.") at 26.19 per share and 100% of unlisted company ExxonMobil Chemical France SAS ("EMCF")

Clearance of both French Foreign Direct Investment authorization and EU Foreign Subsidies Regulation

Esso S.A.F. now operating under its new name: North Atlantic Energies

North Atlantic reaffirms its long-term commitment to the Gravenchon site, its employees, and France's energy and industrial future

Mandatory tender offer to be launched for the remaining Esso S.A.F. shares at 28.931 per share





Paris, FRANCE - November 28, 2025 - North Atlantic France today announces the successful closing of its acquisition of an 82.89% controlling interest in Esso S.A.F. at 26.19 per share and 100% of EMCF from ExxonMobil following a competitive auction process initiated in 2024.

The transaction has received all required regulatory approvals, including French foreign direct investment authorization and clearance under the EU Foreign Subsidies Regulation. As of today's closing, Esso S.A.F. is renamed North Atlantic Energies, paving the way for the beginning of a new chapter for a key player of France's energy and industrial landscape.

Ted Lomond, President and CEO of North Atlantic Group, said:

"This acquisition represents a major step forward in North Atlantic's international expansion. Over the past four decades, we have successfully transformed and operated complex industrial assets across Canada, combining safety, performance, and sustainability. We bring that same commitment to France, where we aim to invest for the long term and support the energy transition. With the creation of North Atlantic Energies, we are proud to establish a bridge between North America and Europe which reflects our ambition to build a premier transatlantic energy group."

Simon Fenner, President of North Atlantic France, added:

"Today marks the start of a new chapter for North Atlantic Energies, and a strong signal of our long-term confidence in the Gravenchon site and its teams. I am proud of all the teams involved in making this transition a success, and of our shared ambition to strengthen Gravenchon's position as a world-class industrial platformin the years to come. We see major opportunities to invest, to grow, and to contribute to the vitality of the Normandy region and to France's energy and industrial future."

North Atlantic will ensure that North Atlantic Energies sustains its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of product quality and service, and to sustaining trusted relationships with its customers across France and beyond. North Atlantic Energies will also continue to collaborate with ExxonMobil under long-term supply and technology agreements that ensure operational continuity while supporting innovation and reliability.

Next steps

In accordance with French securities law, North Atlantic France will implement a simplified tender offer (the "Offer") for the remaining North Atlantic Energies shares not already held by North Atlantic France, at an Offer price of 28.93 per share. In this context, and as previously disclosed, the board of directors of Esso S.A.F, now North Atlantic Energies, has appointed Ledouble SAS, represented by Ms. Agnes Piniot and Mr. Romain Delafont, as an independent expert to issue a fairness opinion on the financial terms of the Offer which North Atlantic France intends to file with the AMF upon completion of the independent expert's work. North Atlantic France also intends to implement a squeeze-out procedure if the conditions are met at the end of the Offer.

MEDIA CONTACTS

France: Brunswick Group - northatlantic@brunswickgroup.com

Hugues Boeton: +33 6 79 99 27 15

Paul Priam: +33 6 84 39 09 89

Canada: Mark Duggan - markduggan@northatlantic.ca

+1-709-687-3136

ABOUTNORTHATLANTIC

For nearly four decades, North Atlantic has been a market leader in the retail gas and convenience sector, as well as the residential, commercial, and wholesale fuel industries in Newfoundland and Labrador. Recently, through a joint venture with Suncor Energy, North Atlantic expanded its retail division into Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, through North Sun Energy. As managing partner, North Atlantic operates 110 fuel retail sites across all three provinces. North Atlantic has ambitious plans for future growth and development in strategic locations across the region.

Known for its expertise in acquiring and delivering exceptional products, North Atlantic caters to both domestic and industrial sectors while also serving global clients through their marine bunkering distribution channels.

North Atlantic is committed to strategic growth to deliver innovative and green energy solutions aligned with evolving global needs. By driving industry progress, North Atlantic is supporting new skills and new jobs for this dynamic landscape. North Atlantic remains committed to providing exceptional energy, fuel and convenience retail initiatives that enhance customer experience while fostering economic growth in the communities they serve in Canada and beyond.

1 The difference between the 28.93 per share Offer price and the 26.19 per share block purchase price reflects the exclusion, for purposes of the price offered to minority shareholders, of the downward purchase price adjustment agreed with ExxonMobil in respect of certain post-closing social liabilities, as previously disclosed on September 24, 2025 and November 10, 2025.

France: Brunswick Group - northatlantic@brunswickgroup.com Hugues Boeton: +33 6 79 99 27 15 Paul Priam: +33 6 84 39 09 89 Canada: Mark Duggan - markduggan@northatlantic.ca +1-709-687-3136
Promoting industry-academia collaboration and Sino-Pakistan technological and cultural exchanges through interdisciplinary energy and electrical engineering education

SHANGHAI, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Shanghai Electric (SEHK: 2727, SSE: 601727) officially launched the Sino-Pakistan Academy of Excellence for Engineers (the "Academy") on November 24 as a joint initiative by Shanghai Electric and Shanghai Dianji University. The Academy aims to cultivate engineering talents that are internationally competitive, interdisciplinary and versatile, while building a pivotal platform for the technological and cultural exchange between China and Pakistan.

The launch event took place online and offline simultaneously across three locations in both countries. Representatives of the Thar Block-I integrated coal mine and power project ("Thar Project"), and Shanghai Dianji University signed a cooperation agreement for the Phase I training program, marking the official implementation of the talent cultivation initiative.

Zhu Zhaokai, President of Shanghai Electric Group, remarked that against the backdrop of profound adjustments in the global industrial landscape, there is a growing urgency for enterprises to seek versatile talents equipped with theoretical foundations, engineering practices, international perspectives, and cross-cultural collaboration capabilities.

"The establishment of the Academy is a significant initiative by Shanghai Electric to promote the deep integration of 'industry-academia-research-application' and to build an international talent cultivation system," he said. "Leveraging the academic strengths of Shanghai Dianji University in advanced manufacturing, we will deepen collaborative research, practical teaching, and faculty sharing, working together to create a new model for cultivating international talents under the 'Belt and Road' Initiative."

Gong Siyi, President of Shanghai Dianji University, expressed that the Academy, as a key overseas demonstration project, will be a priority. By integrating high-quality faculty and educational resources, the university is committed to maintaining high standards in talent development systems, teaching quality, and overall service support.

"The goal is to establish the Academy as a vital bridge for China-Pakistan friendship and technological cooperation," she noted.

As the first enterprise-led international engineering talent program under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) framework, the Academy will offer tailored master's programs aligned with the Thar Project needs, focusing on energy and electrical engineering. Through dual mentorships pairing professors and industry experts, it will equip trainees to address real-world challenges by integrating theory with practice.

In recent years, Shanghai Electric has prioritized systematic talent cultivation and strategic planning in building the Academy, deepening industry-academia collaboration to foster an innovation ecosystem focused on globalization and advanced technological integration.

As a joint industry-education talent development platform established by Shanghai Electric Group and Shanghai Dianji University, the Shanghai Electric Academy of Excellence for Engineers has, since its inauguration in 2024, focused on empowering technological experts and cultivating high-caliber professionals. The Institute is committed to building a strong pipeline of future technology leaders.

As the Academy's first flagship initiative, the Tech Expert Symposium serves as a premium forum for leading experts and scholars to promote knowledge sharing, technical collaboration, and talent development. Since its launch, it has held five sessions featuring cutting-edge technological trends and practical engineering insights.

Behind Shanghai Electric's proactive talent strategy is a strong commitment to technological advancement and human capital during this period of rapid transformation. In the first half of 2025 alone, the company invested 2.546?billion CNY in R&D-a 9.4% year-on-year increase, equal to 4.7% of total revenue-with 39.5% of funding directed to emerging sectors.

To sustain accelerated innovation, Shanghai Electric has positioned and will keep positioning talent as its foremost strategic resource, reforming its development system to build a strong, well-structured team.

For more information, please visit https://www.shanghai-electric.com/group_en/ .

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2834169/IMAGE_1.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2346204/Shanghai_Electric_logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/shanghai-electric-launches-sino-pakistan-academy-of-excellence-for-engineers-to-cultivate-belt-and-road-talent-302628033.html
NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / November 28, 2025 / Sun Peak Metals Corp. (TSXV:PEAK)(OTCQB:SUNPF) ("Sun Peak" or the "Company") is pleased to announce it has closed its oversubscribed non-brokered private placement, previously announced on October 16, 2025, for aggregate gross proceeds of $6,668,622.10 (the "Offering") on November 27, 2025, comprised of:

16,032,470 subscription receipts (the " FinCo Subscription Receipts ") of a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company (" FinCo ") at a price of $0.35 per FinCo Subscription Receipt for gross proceeds of $5,611,364.50; and

3,020,736 subscription receipts of Sun Peak (the "Sun Peak Subscription Receipts", and together with the FinCo Subscription Receipts, the "Subscription Receipts") at a price of $0.35 per Sun Peak Subscription Receipt for gross proceeds of $1,057,257.60.

The Offering was completed in connection with the proposed acquisition (the "Transaction") by the Company of all issued and outstanding shares of Saudi Discovery Company SPV Limited ("SDC") with the net proceeds of the Offering are expected to be used for advancement of the Company's Shire VMS Project, for working capital and general corporate purposes and initial exploration work at SDC's properties on completion of the Transaction. For additional information on the Transaction, please refer to the Company's news releases dated September 18, October 15 and October 30, 2025.

In connection with the Offering, the Company and FinCo have agreed to pay cash finder's fees to certain finders (the "Finders") equal to 6% of the gross proceeds raised by each Finder for an aggregate of $131,121.46 ("the "Commission"), and issued to Finders 299,760 non-transferable finder's warrants of FinCo (the "FinCo Finder Warrants") and 56,873 non-transferable finder's warrants of Sun Peak (the "Sun Peak Finder Warrants"), representing ??6% of the aggregate number of Subscription Receipts sold to purchasers introduced to the Company by such ?Finders, which will be exercisable upon conversion of the Subscription Receipts. Half of the Commission has been paid, with the balance to be paid upon conversion of the Subscription Receipts. Each FinCo Finder Warrant and Sun Peak Finder Warrant are exercisable to acquire, respectively, one common share of FinCo and one common share of Sun Peak, at a price of $0.50 per share, for a period of thirty-six (36) months from the date of closing the Offering, subject to acceleration in certain situations.

The Offering is subject to the final approval of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV").

Insider Participation

Insiders of the Company subscribed for a total of 500,000 FinCo Subscription Receipts and 1,730,000 Sun Peak Subscription Receipts of the Offering, for aggregate gross proceeds of $780,500. The participation of insiders in the Offering constitutes a "related party transaction", within the meaning of TSXV Policy 5.9 and Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company has relied on the exemptions from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 contained in sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, in respect of the related party participation in the Offering, as neither the fair market value (as determined under MI 61-101) of the subject matter of, nor the fair market value of the consideration for, the transaction, insofar as it involved the insiders, exceeded 25% of the Company's market capitalization (as determined under MI 61-101).

Subscription Receipt Terms

Each FinCo Subscription Receipt will be automatically exchanged upon the satisfaction of Escrow Release Conditions (as defined below), without any further action by the holder of such Subscription Receipt and for no additional consideration, for one unit of FinCo (a "FinCo Unit"). Each FinCo Unit shall consist of one common share of FinCo ("FinCo Share") and one-half (1/2) of one warrant of FinCo (each whole warrant, a "FinCo Warrant").

Following closing of the Offering, FinCo is expected to amalgamate with another wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, with FinCo surviving as a wholly owned subsidiary of Sun Peak. Upon completion of the Transaction, each FinCo Share will be exchanged for one common share of Sun Peak ("Sun Peak Share") and each FinCo Warrant will be exchanged for one warrant of Sun Peak ("Sun Peak Warrant"), exercisable to acquire one Sun Peak Share at an exercise price of $0.50 per Sun Peak Share for a period of thirty-six (36) months from the date of issuance, subject to acceleration in certain situations. In addition, each FinCo Broker Warrant will be exchanged for one Sun Peak Broker Warrant.

Each Sun Peak Subscription Receipt will be automatically exchanged upon the satisfaction of Escrow Release Conditions (as defined below), without any further action by the holder of such Subscription Receipt and for no additional consideration, for one unit of FinCo (a "Sun Peak Unit", and together with the FinCo Units, the "Units"). Each Sun Peak Unit shall consist of one Sun Peak Share and one-half (1/2) of one Sun Peak Warrant.

All securities issued pursuant to the Offering are subject to a four-month and one-day hold period from the date of closing the Offering, other than the Sun Peak Shares, Sun Peak Warrants and Sun Peak Broker Warrants issued pursuant to the Amalgamation in exchange for the FinCo Shares, FinCo Warrants and FinCo Broker Warrants, which will not be subject to a statutory hold period.

Escrow and Escrow Release Conditions

The gross proceeds of the Offering, net of half of the Commission, have been placed in escrow (the "Escrowed Funds") pending satisfaction of the Escrow Release Conditions, which include: (i) the completion, satisfaction or waiver of all conditions precedent to the Transaction in accordance with its terms; and (ii) receipt of all required shareholder approval at a special meeting of shareholders to be held on December 1, 2025, and regulatory approvals, as applicable. Upon satisfaction of the Escrow Release Conditions, the Escrowed Funds will be released to FinCo and to the Company and the Subscription Receipts will be automatically converted into Units.

If (i) the Escrow Release Conditions are not satisfied by 11:59 p.m. (Vancouver time) on February 25, 2026, or (ii) the Company announces that the Transaction will not proceed, then the Subscription Receipts will be cancelled and the Escrowed Funds, together with any interest earned thereon, will be returned to the holders of the Subscription Receipts. To the extent that the Escrowed Funds are insufficient to return to holders an amount equal to the original purchase price of the Subscription Receipts, the Company and FinCo will be responsible for any shortfall.

ABOUT SAUDI DISCOVERY COMPANY

Saudi Discovery Company is a pioneering exploration company advancing high-potential mineral projects in Saudi Arabia, aligned with Vision 2030.

ABOUT SUN PEAK METALS CORP.

Sun Peak is advancing the district-scale Shire VMS Project in the Tigray Region of northern Ethiopia. The project covers six exploration licenses totaling approximately 1,450 square kilometers within the highly prospective Arabian-Nubian Shield, the same geological environment as the Bisha Mine and the Asmara Projects in Eritrea.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF SUN PEAK METALS CORP.

Greg Davis,

President, CEO & Director

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:

Greg Davis

(T): +1 (604) 999 1099

(E): info@sunpeakmetals.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.

Caution to US Investors

The securities referred to in this news release 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, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons absent registration under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws, unless an exemption from such registration is available. This news release does not constitute an offer for sale of securities for sale, nor a solicitation for offers to buy any securities. Any public offering of securities in the United States must be made by means of a prospectus containing detailed information about the company and management, as well as financial statements. "United States" and "U.S. person" have the respective meanings assigned in Regulation S under the U.S Securities Act.

Disclaimer for Forward-Looking Information

Certain information and statements in this news release may be considered forward-looking information or forward-looking statements for purposes of applicable securities laws (collectively, "forward-looking statements"), which reflect the expectations of management regarding its disclosure and amendments thereto. Forward-looking statements consist of information or statements that are not purely historical, including any information or statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future. Such information or statements may include, but are not limited to, the terms, the anticipated use of proceeds; the satisfaction of the Escrow Release Conditions; the completion of the Transaction; the timing and mechanics of converting the Subscription Receipts into Units and the subsequent exchange of FinCo securities for Sun Peak securities; the payment of the balance of the finder's fees; and the receipt of all necessary approvals. Such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results, performance or developments to differ materially from those contained in the statements. No assurance can be given that any of the events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will occur or, if they do occur, what benefits Sun Peak will obtain from them. These forward-looking statements reflect management's current views and are based on certain expectations, estimates and assumptions, which may prove to be incorrect. A number of risks and uncertainties could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including without limitation: including the risk that the Offering or the Transaction is delayed or not completed on the terms described herein or at all; the risk that required approvals are not obtained; and market conditions. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release and, except as required by applicable securities laws, Sun Peak assumes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results differed from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Additional information about these and other assumptions, risks and uncertainties are set out in the "Risks and Uncertainties" section in the Prospectus filed with Canadian security regulators.

SOURCE: Sun Peak Metals Corp.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/metals-and-mining/sun-peak-metals-closes-oversubscribed-6.7-million-private-placement-offering-of-s-1112723
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - November 28, 2025) - Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. (CSE: API) (OTCQB: APAAF) (FSE: A0I0) (MUN: A0I0) (BER: A0I0) (the "Company" or "Appia") is pleased to announce that as a result of the acceleration of the expiry date of certain warrants exercisable at $0.15, as announced in the Press Releases dated October 22, 2025 and October 30, 2025, an aggregate of 10,476,316 warrants have been exercised since November 1, 2025 for proceeds of $1,571,447.40.

Early Warning Disclosure Regarding Christopher B. Tatum

Christpher B. Tatum ("Kit Tatum") previously filed an early warning report with respect to the securities of Appia on June 30, 2025. As a result of an increase in the issued and outstanding capital of Appia pursuant to the exercise of warrants, including the acquisition by Kit Tatum of 3,000,000 common shares (the "3,000,000 Shares") on the exercise of 3 million warrants at $0.15 per warrant, and the expiry of 6,375,000 warrants held by Kit Tatum, the interest of Kit Tatum in Appia has been reduced to approximately 8.36% of the issued and outstanding common shares of Appia on a non-diluted basis and a partially diluted basis. Kit Tatum is therefore no longer required to file an early warning report under National Instrument 62-103.

Kit Tatum has advised that the 3,000,000 Shares were acquired for investment purposes and that he has no present intention to either increase or decrease his holdings in the Company. Notwithstanding the foregoing, he has advised that he may increase or decrease his beneficial ownership, control or direction over common shares of the Company through market transactions, private agreements, other treasury issuances or otherwise.

This news release is issued pursuant to National Instrument 62-103 - The Early Warning System and related Take-Over Bid and Insider Reporting Issues of the Canadian Securities Administrators, which also requires an early warning report to be filed with the applicable securities regulators containing additional information with respect to the foregoing matters. A copy of this early warning report in respect of this transaction will be available on Appia's issuer profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

About Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp.

Appia is a publicly traded Canadian company in the rare earth element and uranium sectors. The Company holds a 25% interest in the PCH Ionic Adsorption Clay Project, which is 42,932.24 ha. in size and located within the state of Goias in Brazil.

The Company is also focusing on delineating high-grade critical rare earth elements and gallium on the Alces Lake property and exploring for high-grade uranium in the prolific Athabasca Basin on its Otherside, Loranger, North Wollaston, and Eastside properties. The Company holds the surface rights to exploration for 94,982.39 hectares (234,706.59 acres) in Saskatchewan. The Company also has a 100% interest in 13,008 hectares (32,143 acres), with rare earth elements and uranium deposits over five mineralized zones in the Elliot Lake Camp, Ontario.

Appia has 194.4 million common shares outstanding, 206.7 million shares fully diluted.

Cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements: This News Release contains forward-looking statements which are typically preceded by, followed by or including the words "believes", "expects", "anticipates", "estimates", "intends", "plans" or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance as they involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. We do not intend and do not assume any obligation to update these forward-looking statements and shareholders are cautioned not to put undue reliance on such statements.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange 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.

For more information, visit www.appiareu.com.

As part of our ongoing effort to keep investors, interested parties and stakeholders updated, we have several communication portals. If you have any questions online (X, Facebook, LinkedIn) please feel free to send direct messages.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/276238

SOURCE: Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp.
Highlights:

A global wealth management technology provider administering over US$2 trillion in assets, supporting 26 million end investors, and serving 650+ financial institutions and 12,000+ wealth and asset management firms worldwide has selected Inverite as a core data intelligence and verification layer for its Canadian operations.

Inverite's AI-driven Real-Time Data Platform will be embedded directly into the partner's Canadian wealth management infrastructure.

The integration provides Tier-1 financial institutions and wealth managers with:

 Automated EFT Collection  Real-time KYC Confirmation

Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - November 28, 2025) - Inverite Insights Inc. (CSE: INVR) (OTC Pink: INVRD) (FSE: 2V0) ("Inverite"), a leading Canadian provider of AI-driven financial data intelligence and real-time bank verification technology, is pleased to announce that a global fintech enterprise has selected Inverite as a core integrated data and verification provider for its Canadian ecosystem. The partner is recognized for powering large-scale wealth management platforms across major financial institutions worldwide.

Through this partnership, the global fintech provider will embed Inverite's AI-enabled, real-time data intelligence layer directly into its Canadian wealth management infrastructure. Inverite will deliver key onboarding and compliance functions including:

Automated EFT Collection - a faster, more secure and less error-prone process for onboarding clients. Real-time KYC Confirmation - instant verification of account ownership and identity for regulatory compliance and risk management.

This integration positions Inverite within the core infrastructure layer of the partner's Canadian wealth platform, allowing Inverite's capabilities to support onboarding, payment initiation, identity verification, and compliance workflows across Tier-1 financial institutions. As a result, Inverite's services will be natively available to participating Canadian financial institutions without requiring separate integrations.

The agreement establishes a scalable, high-distribution channel for Inverite, further strengthening the Company's role in Canada's emerging open banking ecosystem and supporting recurring revenue growth as its AI-driven services are consumed across a national Tier-1 client base.

"This partnership is a defining milestone for Inverite and validates the core of our business model," said Karim Nanji, CEO of Inverite Insights Inc. "Embedding our AI-driven data intelligence directly within the financial infrastructure of a global enterprise demonstrates our ability to operate in highly regulated environments and accelerates our national scale. It firmly positions Inverite at the forefront of Canada's next generation of open banking and AI-enabled financial verification."

The Company is also pleased to announce a non-brokered private placement of $0.25 units, for gross proceeds of up to $1,000,000. Each Unit is comprised of a Common Share and one-half Warrant. Each whole Warrant (the "Warrant") is exercisable to purchase a Common Share at a price of $0.35 for a period of two years. The Company may pay finder fees in accordance with applicable laws and Exchange requirements. All securities issued will be subject to a hold period expiring four months and one day from the closing date.

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 in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons (as defined in Regulation S under the 1933 Act), except pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements of those laws. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities in the United States, or for the account or benefit of U.S. persons (as such term is defined in Regulation S under the 1933 Act).

About Inverite Insights Inc.

Inverite Insights Inc. (CSE: INVR) (OTC: INVRD) (FSE: 2V0) ("Inverite") is a Vancouver-based, AI-driven software provider specializing in real-time financial data intelligence. With a proprietary database of over 30 billion financial data points from more than seven million unique Canadian consumer requests, Inverite empowers businesses to transact more effectively with consumers through innovative solutions for data enrichment, identity verification, risk management and regulatory compliance.

For further information about Inverite, please visit: inveriteinsights.com

LinkedIn

Facebook

Instagram

X

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider/Market Maker (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release, nor has in any way passed upon the merits of the proposed transaction nor approved or disapproved the contents of this press release.

Forward-Looking Statements: This news release may include forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. All statements within, other than statements of historical fact, are to be considered forward looking. Although the Company believes that any forward-looking statements in this news release are reasonable, there can be no assurance that any such forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate. The Company cautions readers that all forward-looking statements, are based on assumptions none of which can be assured and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements represent management's best judgment based on information currently available. Readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such risks and uncertainties and should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

The forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release are made as of the date hereof and no undertaking is given to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable securities laws or the CSE. The forward-looking statements or information contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/276234

SOURCE: Inverite Insights Inc.
China, Tanzania's Zanzibar strengthen cervical cancer prevention with joint training

Xinhua) 13:06, November 28, 2025

DAR ES SALAAM, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- China and Tanzania's Zanzibar have deepened cooperation in women's health through a joint training program on cervical cancer prevention, which was held on Wednesday at Abdulla Mzee Hospital.

The program brought together health experts from a health delegation led by China's National Health Commission, the 35th batch of the Chinese medical team to Zanzibar, officials from Zanzibar's Ministry of Health, and hospital staff for a full day of technical training, dialogue, and field assessments.

Abdulla Mzee Hospital Director Abood Khamis Maabad expressed gratitude to Chinese medical experts, noting that the program strengthened local capacity, advanced China-Tanzania medical cooperation, and laid a solid foundation for future efforts to improve women's health and cervical cancer prevention in the region.

Experts delivered lectures on prevention, standardized screening techniques, and clinical procedures, offering practical guidance to local health workers.

This was followed by a question-and-answer session, where participants raised concerns about operational difficulties in cervical cancer screening and case management. The Chinese experts provided targeted solutions and discussed future cooperation in personnel training, technical support, and pilot screening programs.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Harsha Deshmukh has been appointed a member of the Board of Managing Directors with responsibility for IT and Global Business Services effective 1 February 2026

Boehringer Ingelheim announced today that the Shareholders' Committee has appointed Harsha Deshmukh to the Board of Managing Directors. Effective 1 February 2026, Harsha Deshmukh will lead the IT and Global Business Services functions focusing on digital transformation and driving the further development of business services at the company. IT and Global Business Services, which so far were part of the Group Functions Division, will be set up as a separate Board Division.

Commenting on the appointment, Hubertus von Baumbach, Chairman of the Boehringer Shareholders' Committee said: "We warmly welcome Harsha Deshmukh. With his extensive experience in fostering innovation, he will help drive our journey of transformation - a transformation in the interest of patients. We know that in this process of continuous improvement we can rely on the proven skills, the contributions and the high commitment of each individual in our organization."

Chairman of the Board of Managing Directors Shashank Deshpande added: "I am excited to welcome Harsha to Boehringer Ingelheim. His appointment strengthens our capabilities in the important segments of IT and services, two areas that are critical elements to underpin our future growth."

Harsha Deshmukh will join Boehringer Ingelheim from Infineon Technologies AG in Munich, where he most recently was Executive Vice President & Chief Information Officer. He holds degrees in Electronics, Human Resources and Global Management from the University of Mumbai, Babson College and INSEAD.







Harsha Deshmukh

Diploma Engineering and Industrial Electronics, MBA Human Resources Management (University of Mumbai), Global Management (Babson College and INSEAD)

Professional milestones

2021 - present Executive Vice President & Chief Information Officer, Infineon Technologies AG, Munich, Germany

2009 - 2021 Senior Vice President Information Technology, Infineon Technologies AG, Munich, Germany

2001 - 2009 Director of Supply Chain Applications, Infineon Technologies, Munich, Germany

1999 - 2001 Senior Consultant Advanced Planning Systems, Siemens Information Management Systems, Mumbai, India

1989 - 1999 Manager Manufacturing Automation, Mukand Ltd., Mumbai, India

About Boehringer Ingelheim

Boehringer Ingelheim is a biopharmaceutical company active in both human and animal health. As one of the industry's top investors in research and development, the company focuses on developing innovative therapies that can improve and extend lives in areas of high unmet medical need. Independent since its foundation in 1885, Boehringer takes a long-term perspective, embedding sustainability along the entire value chain. Our approximately 54,500 employees serve over 130 markets to build a healthier and more sustainable tomorrow.?Learn more at www.boehringer-ingelheim.com.

Attachment
VIENNA, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- KuCoin, a leading global crypto platform built on trust, today announced that its European entity, KuCoin EU Exchange GmbH (KuCoin EU), has officially obtained a Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCAR) license in Austria. This authorization allows KuCoin EU to offer fully compliant digital asset services across 29 countries in the European Economic Area (EEA, except Malta).

The approval marks a major advancement in KuCoin's global compliance roadmap and signifies the company's successful alignment with one of the most comprehensive and highest-standard digital asset regulatory frameworks in the world.

MiCAR is widely regarded as one of the most rigorous, structured, and forward-looking regulatory systems for digital assets globally. By securing the license via its local EU entity, KuCoin reinforces its position as a compliance-aligned global exchange and validates its commitment to operating under the world's most trusted regulatory regimes.

The achievement builds upon KuCoin's broader global compliance expansion, including securing AUSTRAC Digital Currency Exchange Registration in Australia this November, as well as the enhancement of its compliance infrastructure across multiple major jurisdictions. MiCAR authorization enables KuCoin EU to deliver secure, transparent, and compliant services to millions of European users under a unified, high-integrity regulatory framework.

BC Wong, CEO of KuCoin, commented:

"Securing the MiCAR license with our local entity in Austria is a defining milestone in KuCoin's long-term Trust and Compliance strategy. Europe's MiCAR framework represents one of the highest regulatory standards worldwide, and we are proud to meet this benchmark. As part of our $2B Trust Project, KuCoin will continue building transparent, credible, and security-driven Web3 infrastructure that strengthens user trust and supports the responsible growth of the digital asset industry."

The MiCAR license further elevates KuCoin's global trust architecture, supported by the $2B Trust Project, top-tier security certifications such as SOC 2 Type II, ISO 27001:2022, ISO 27701, and CCSS, and ongoing third-party Proof-of-Reserves audits. With industry-leading risk and compliance systems, these pillars underscore KuCoin's commitment to "Trust First. Trade Next.", empowering individuals and institutions to access digital asset services with confidence and transparency.

"This milestone strengthens KuCoin's commitment to responsible global expansion. Compliance is not simply a regulatory obligation-it is the foundation of our long-term mission to deliver secure, innovative, and accessible digital asset services to users worldwide," added BC. "As KuCoin continues to align with regulatory frameworks across more regions and countries, we remain dedicated to building trusted products, safeguarding user assets, and contributing to the healthy and sustainable development of the global crypto industry."

With the launch of KuCoin EU's fully compliant platform approaching, EEA users (except in Malta) are encouraged to follow KuCoin EU's official announcements to receive timely updates and early access information. EEA users may no longer register or onboard on KuCoin Global's platform. The MiCAR license marks not only a new chapter for KuCoin in Europe but also a significant step toward shaping a more transparent, trusted, and regulated digital asset future globally.

About KuCoin EU

KuCoin EU Exchange GmbH is a licensed European entity established to offer digital asset services to users across the European Economic Area (EEA"*" except Malta). Authorized as a Crypto-Asset Service Provider (CASP) under the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCAR) with the Austrian Financial Market Authority (FMA), KuCoin EU is approved to provide regulated services, including custody and administration of crypto-assets, crypto-asset exchange services (crypto-fiat and crypto-crypto), the placing of crypto-assets, and transfer services on behalf of clients.

Headquartered in Vienna, KuCoin EU operates in accordance with the applicable EU regulatory framework, including MiCAR requirements around transparency, market integrity, and investor protection.

KuCoin EU is not the operator of a crypto-asset trading platform and does not provide investment advice.

Media Contact: press@kucoin.eu

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2834214/image_5002362_37687314.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2785613/KuCoin_new_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/kucoin-eu-secures-micar-license-to-deliver-regulated-digital-asset-services-in-europe-302628075.html
Key outcomes:

The Latvian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

Latvia and Mubadala agreed to develop an MoU by early 2026 as a basis for potential investments in Latvia's energy sector, food security, health technologies and defence innovations.

A significant milestone of the visit was the meeting between Latvian Delegation and AD Ports Group

DUBAI, UAE and RIGA, Latvia, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The working visit of Latvia's Minister for Economics, Viktor Valainis, and a high-level delegation of Latvian businesses to the United Arab Emirates (23-26 November) has resulted in substantial progress in strengthening bilateral economic cooperation and advancing new investment opportunities. A key achievement was the signing of the first MoU between the Latvian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry. By the end of 2025, both sides also plan to establish a UAE-Latvia Business Council to serve as the primary platform for continued commercial dialogue.

A significant milestone of the visit was the meeting between Latvian Delegation and AD Ports Group, one of the region's leading port, maritime and logistics operators, during which both sides discussed projects and initiatives of mutual interest.

Engagement with the UAE's major investment funds - Mubadala and ADQ - also moved forward. Latvia and Mubadala agreed to develop an MoU by early 2026 as a basis for potential investments in Latvia's energy sector, food security, health technologies and defence innovations. Discussions with ADQ focused on establishing a structured mechanism for regular information exchange, with Latvian projects closely aligned to ADQ's priority areas, including infrastructure, mobility, food and healthcare.

The delegation also participated in the 3rd session of the UAE-Latvia Joint Economic Committee (JEC), where both sides discussed cooperation in renewable energy, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, modern technologies, logistics and agriculture.

Commenting on the occasion, His Excellency Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, noted:

"The conversations at the third UAE-Latvia Joint Economic Committee reflect our nations' shared commitment to deepening trade and investment cooperation, and to building on clear synergies in the agriculture, food production and infrastructure sectors."

Meanwhile His Excellency Viktor Valainis, Minister for Economics of the Republic of Latvia, said:

"Our presence here is a testament to Latvia's commitment to strengthening our friendship, expanding cooperation and building new opportunities for our nations. I am also pleased to be joined by a strong business delegation of almost 20 Latvian companies spanning innovation, technology, energy, construction, transport and logistics. Together with our Emirati partners, we share a clear ambition to deepen economic ties through dialogue and collaboration."

The visit was organised by the Latvian Ministry of Economics and the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA), in cooperation with the Embassy of Latvia in the UAE and the UAE Ministry of Foreign Trade. The trade mission was supported by the European Regional Development Fund.

Participating Latvian companies and organisations:

3D Engineering, AJ Power, Aluksnes Putnu Fabrika, AmCraft, Asya, BSC Group, GP Systems, HMP Group, IT Camp, LAMOD, Latvian Employers' Confederation, Latvian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Primekss, Freeport of Riga Authority, SKYPARK, SUBmerge Baltic, Tilde and Vozorom.

About the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA)

LIAA promotes the competitiveness of Latvian companies, export growth and foreign direct investment, and supports the development of the tourism sector and Latvia's national image. With a wide network of international offices and regional business centres across Latvia, LIAA acts as a strategic partner for business development - from concept to international markets.

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2834253/Business_Delegation_Latvia.jpg

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2834254/LIAA_Logo.jpg

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/latvian-delegations-visit-to-the-uae-delivers-breakthrough-in-economic-and-business-cooperation-302628101.html
Request consists of 200 SMB bundle licenses to be delivered first, followed by 1,000 SMB and Corporate licenses during 2026, representing minimum total ARR of US$1.3 Million

VANCOUVER, BC AND MIAMI, FL / ACCESS Newswire / November 28, 2025 / Sekur Private Data (OTCQB:SWISF)(CSE:SKUR)(FRA:GDT0) (" Sekur " or the " Company "), a leading Swiss-hosted cybersecurity and private communications platform, is pleased to announce that is has received a request for proposal for the first 1,200 Sekur SMB bundle licenses in the Democratic Republic of Congo ("DRC"). This request, from a private corporation, represents the first request for the African continent.

Since its last announcement on Oct 1 st 2025 , the Company and its appointed Director of Business Development for Central and Southern Africa, have worked diligently and methodically to introduce Sekur's privacy communications platform in Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo ("DRC"), in the corporate and government sectors . These efforts are now bearing positive feedbacks and fruits.

The request for proposal for the first 1,200 Sekur SMB business bundle licenses is estimated to be for a minimum of a gross annual recurring revenue ("ARR") of US$1,296,000. The identity of the corporation shall remain confidential for security and privacy reasons. Additionally, the Company is looking at a distribution partnership with the Silikin Village , the largest technology and startup hub in the DRC, to provide Sekur solutions to its thousands of business clients. Some of the licenses could be sold as Corporate Bundle licenses, bearing gross price of US$1,500/yr, while SMB Bundles are priced at US$900/yr or US$90/month.

Sekur is expected to sell its SMB and Corporate plans due in part to the explosion in Business Email Compromise ("BEC") attacks on all big tech email and chat applications, especially since the implementation of AI inside their solutions. Sekur offers countermeasures to BEC attacks through its SekurSend proprietary feature and offers other protections against internet spying on VPN users and messaging hacks such as the latest WhatsApp or Signal hacking incidents reported in the press.

Core Corporate Communications Solutions:

None of the solution rely on Big Tech infrastructure or open-source coding, allowing for private and secure communications throughout, operable within and outside the Sekur network , bypassing traditional telecom systems and eliminating phone record hacking . None of the solutions data mine or location track users.

SekurMail : An encrypted email service with features like SekurSend/SekurReply (for secure sending to non-Sekur users without revealing identities and content), full email delivery control, automatic data export, file transfer and more. It supports custom domains and counters phishing or Business Email Compromise (BEC) attacks.

SekurMessenger : A secure chat app with end-to-end encryption, self-destructing messages, file transfers, encrypted voice recordings, and archiving for compliance. It allows private communication even with non-Sekur users through its Chat-by-Invite via SMS or email invites. Each user received a Sekur ID for contact vetting, and there is no phone number required for account registration.

SekurVPN : A privacy-focused VPN using military-grade encryption and proprietary HeliX technology for secure internet browsing, protecting online actions and identity without logging data.

SekurRelay : An enterprise email add-on that "splits" a company's domain, allowing executives to use Sekur's secure features (e.g., SekurSend) without migrating the entire organization-addressing a major barrier for large-scale adoption by corporations and governments.

Sekur's platform is proprietary and hosted in Switzerland for optimal security and privacy compliance and offers a set of Communications Suite with countermeasures to these scenarios through its proprietary privacy platform for encrypted email, messaging and VPN for high value clients, such as C-level executives, government officials and global leaders. It offers multiple privacy advantages, such as no contact or data mining, no location tracking and secure and private communication within and outside of the Sekur network , offering privacy and security for both sender and recipient without divulging either phone number or identity , using its SekurSend and Chat by Invite features.

Alain Ghiai, CEO of Sekur stated, "We are extremely pleased to be able to provide secure and private communications to the citizens and businesses of the DRC. We have been very serious about putting efforts and resources to develop our business in the DRC and are very pleased with the positive feedback we are receiving for Sekur by both the private sector and government sector, in the DRC . We believe that based on the feedback we are getting that there is an enormous demand in the DRC for Sekur and we look forward to providing secure and private communications to that market. This is a perfect opportunity to increase Sekur's market into Africa as we are off grid, off big tech and we never data mine or location track your communications . Sekur is meant to protect against phishing, Business Email Compromise attacks, AI hacks, and chat and SMS hacks. "

Swiss Privacy Protection

Sekur's solutions are hosted exclusively in Switzerland, ensuring user data remains secure from external data access requests. Switzerland's robust Federal Act on Data Protection, in place since 1993, upholds strict privacy standards, prohibiting unauthorized data processing and protecting against the publication of information based on leaked "secret official discussions." This regulatory framework provides a unique level of data privacy protection, reinforcing Sekur's commitment to safeguarding user information.

About Sekur Private Data

Sekur Private Data is a Swiss-hosted cybersecurity and privacy communications provider. offering a secure suite of tools to protect governments, businesses and individuals from unauthorized access and cyber threats. With solutions such as SekurMail, SekurMessenger, and SekurVPN, Sekur provides an accessible and reliable means of digital communication and data storage, grounded in Swiss privacy standards. Sekur sells its solutions through its website www.sekur.com , approved distributors and telecommunications companies globally. Sekur serves governments, businesses and consumers worldwide. Its main sales operations are located in Miami, USA.

CONTACT

Alain Ghiai

President and Chief Executive Officer

SEKUR PRIVATE DATA LTD.

Email: investors@sekur.com

www.sekurprivatedata.com

Tel: +1.305.347.5114

Follow Sekur on:

X

LinkedIn

YouTube

For sales brochure on our enterprise security solutions, or partnership opportunities, contact: partners@sekur.com.

To find out more about Sekur's privacy communications solutions visit: https://sekur.com

For more company information, please visit: https://sekurprivatedata.com

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains certain forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws ("forward-looking statements"). All statements other than statements of present or historical fact are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "anticipate", "achieve", "could", "believe", "plan", "intend", "objective", "continuous", "ongoing", "estimate", "outlook", "expect", "project" and similar words, including negatives thereof, suggesting future outcomes or that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. These statements are only predictions. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations; they do not guarantee future performance. Sekur 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 Sekur's control. Such factors include, among other things: risks and uncertainties relating to the future of the Company's business; the success of marketing and sales efforts of the Company; the projections prepared in house and projections delivered by channel partners; the Company's ability to complete the necessary software updates; increases in sales as a result of investments software development technology; consumer interest in the Products; future sales plans and strategies; reliance on large channel partners and expectations of renewals to ongoing agreements with these partners; anticipated events and trends; the economy and other future conditions; and other risks and uncertainties, including those described in Sekur's prospectus dated May 8, 2019, filed with the Canadian Securities Administrators and available on www.sedarplus.ca. 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, Sekur undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information.

SOURCE: Sekur Private Data Ltd.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/computers-technology-and-internet/sekur-private-data-receives-proposal-request-for-first-1-200-seku-1112752
MIAMI, FL / ACCESS Newswire / November 28, 2025 / USCIS selected only 120,141 H-1B registrations in FY 2026, the lowest since 2021. As uncertainty grows around employer-sponsored pathways, the EB-5 Program is becoming a more practical and reliable choice for H-1B families than ever before.

H-1B Anxiety is Rising

H-1B Anxiety is Rising: More H-1B Holders Are Securing U.S. Permanent Residency with the EB-5 Program

Recent data indicates a significant rise in uncertainty among H-1B professionals. In FY 2026, USCIS selected 120,141 H-1B registrations, the lowest since 2021, driven by stricter scrutiny, enhanced fraud-prevention rules and a registration fee increase from $10 to $215.

Total registrations fell to about 358,000, a 26.9% decline from FY 2025 and more than 54% down from FY 2024. Combined with tightening enforcement and a weakened job market, these shifts have created a more complex environment for high-skilled foreign workers, particularly Indian nationals, who also face decades-long Green Card backlogs.

Several developments are driving this rise in uncertainty, the most significant of which are outlined below:

1. Big Tech Layoffs and a Saturated Job Market

In late October 2025, Amazon initiated layoffs affecting around 14,000 corporate employees, with some reports suggesting the total could reach up to 30,000 depending on restructuring plans.

Meta continued multi-year workforce reductions throughout 2025, including a round in October 2025 that cut 600 employees from its Super intelligence Labs division.

Because H-1B workers must secure a new employer within a strict 60-day window, they face heightened vulnerability during layoffs, particularly when job markets in major tech hubs become saturated.

2. The 60-Day Grace Period Becoming More Unpredictable

According to a poll of 1,584 verified professionals conducted on the workplace app Blind, 1 in 6 Indian H-1B professionals, or someone they personally know, received a Notice to Appear (NTA) for deportation within the 60-day period, sometimes in as little as two weeks, effectively categorizing them as "out of status" prematurely.

35% of respondents reported that they or someone they knew had been compelled to leave the U.S. after job loss, often before the 60-day period was complete.

3. Cumbersome Process Changes

Beginning September 2, 2025, most non-immigrant visa renewals, including H-1B, will require mandatory in-person interviews, ending the streamlined Dropbox system. This increases timelines, costs and travel requirements.

USCIS has implemented beneficiary-centric registration and additional anti-fraud safeguards, contributing to lower filing volumes and increased scrutiny during adjudication.

4. The $100,000 H-1B Fee Creating Added Strain

On September 19, 2025, the U.S. administration proposed a $100,000 employer-paid fee for new H-1B petitions.

The jump from the earlier $2,000 to $5,000 range raised immediate concern among employers and visa holders.

Since petitions would be denied without proof of payment, many fear reduced sponsorships, fewer transfers, and restricted overseas travel.

For Indian H-1B professionals, the proposal adds another significant pressure point amid already tightening immigration timelines.

These developments have created the highest levels of uncertainty H-1B professionals have faced in more than a decade. They also highlight the structural limitations of the H-1B system, where immigration status remains tied to a single employer, reducing autonomy and complicating long-term planning for professionals and their families.

Why More H-1B Professionals Are Turning to EB-5

With employer-sponsored pathways becoming less predictable, many H-1B families are reassessing long-term strategies. The EB-5 Program is emerging as a practical alternative for several reasons:

1. Independence from Employer Sponsorship

H-1B status is dependent on maintaining employment with a specific sponsoring company. Job loss, restructures, promotions, or role changes may trigger new filings or threaten lawful status. In contrast, the EB-5 Program offers a path to Permanent U.S. Residency that is not tied to an employer, enabling greater security and long-term planning.

2. Security During Layoffs and Market Volatility

As outlined earlier, the 60-day grace period is both short and increasingly inconsistent, with some NTAs issued even before the full period lapses. This makes job loss one of the most significant points of vulnerability for H-1B professionals, who must secure a new sponsoring employer under tight and sometimes unpredictable timelines.

The EB-5 Program offers a solution to this structural risk as it allows U.S.-based Indian investors to concurrently file Form I-526E and Form I-485, enabling them to stay in the U.S. lawfully throughout processing. They typically receive the Employment Authorization (EAD) and Advance Parole (AP) within 2-6 months of filing, ensuring job continuity* and freedom to travel outside the U.S. without issue upon re-entry.

*H-1B professionals pursuing EB-5 may continue working under their existing status until their Adjustment of Status is approved.

3. Priority Processing

Since the RIA of '22, Rural EB-5 Projects have benefited from Priority Processing in Rural TEA Projects, which has significantly reduced pre-RIA adjudication times of 2-4 years. EB5 United's recent I-526E approvals have been averaging ~5 months, with some taking less than 3 months. In comparison, approvals for Urban Projects are still taking more than 2 years on average.

4. Freedom to Advance or Pivot Careers

Many H-1B professionals decline promotions or career changes that might affect their visa status. EB-5 investors, however, can pursue any role, sector, or business venture without restriction, reclaiming full control over career decisions.

5. Family Stability and Work Rights

An EB-5 investment grants Green Cards not only to the investor but also to their spouse and children under 21, enabling the entire family to live, study, and work in the U.S. without the stress of temporary visa renewals or legal uncertainty.

6. Reserved Visas

The EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022 introduced visa set-asides and Priority Processing for Rural TEA Projects. Thus, Rural EB-5 investors receive 20% of annual EB-5 visa allocations, helping Indian investors bypass future backlogs and achieve faster approvals.

7. Protection against Aging Out

Aging out occurs when a child turns 21 and is no longer considered a dependent under U.S. immigration law. For H-1B families, this is a significant concern; once a child ages out, they lose eligibility as a dependent and may need to file a separate petition, face extended wait times for Green Card approval, or potentially become ineligible for a Green Card altogether.

The EB-5 Program helps mitigate this risk through its Child Status Protection Act (CSPA) protections. Under CSPA, a child's age is frozen on the date Form I-526E is filed. For U.S.-based Indian investors who file Form I-526E and Form I-485 concurrently before the child turns 21, the child's age is effectively locked in permanently, helping prevent aging out during processing.

Conclusion

The combined data from USCIS, tech workforce trends, and recent policy changes make it clear that the H-1B pathway has become increasingly unpredictable for professionals and their families. In contrast, the EB-5 Program has demonstrated year-on-year improvement in adjudication timelines, especially for Rural Projects in the post-RIA era. As of November 2025, we surpassed 700 I-526E approvals, underscoring our leadership in Rural EB-5 Projects and the success of USCIS Priority Processing under the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act (RIA) of 2022. The tables below highlight how 2025 filings achieved noticeably faster processing times compared with petitions submitted between 2022 and 2025.

In addition, we are equally pleased to share the full $88MM EB-5 loan repayment for the Nine Orchard Hotel Project in New York, a major success for our investors and a strong validation of our proven 1st Position Loan Strategy.

I-526E Approval Summary for Petitions FILED in 2025

Rural EB-5 Project Total Approvals Avg. Time Shortest Approval Time Rural Project 1 17 4.5 months 2.8 months Rural Project 2 170 5.3 months 3.2 months Rural Project 3 8 4.9 months 2.9 months

I-526E Approval Summary Across EB5 United's Rural EB-5 Projects (2022-2025)

Rural EB-5 Project Total Approvals Avg. Time Shortest Approval Time Rural Project 1 72 9.7 months 2.8 months Rural Project 2 409 8 months 2.7 months Rural Project 3 224 11.9 months 1 month

Disclaimer: Individual processing timelines may vary. Immigration benefits are not guaranteed and are subject to USCIS approval. This is not an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy any security.

SOURCE: EB5United

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/h-1b-anxiety-is-rising-more-h-1b-holders-are-securing-u.s.-perma-1112384
Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - November 28, 2025) - ICEsoft Technologies Canada Corp. (CSE: ISFT) (the "Corporation" or the "Company" or "ICEsoft") is pleased to announce its interim, unaudited financial results for the periods ending September 30, 2025 and 2024. Detailed results and Management's discussion and analysis are now available on SEDAR at www.sedarplus.ca.

Annual highlights are as follows:

ICEsoft's Voyent Alert! service now provides coverage to approximately 820 North American communities and enterprises.

The Company has now realized 21consecutive quarters of growth in subscription-based revenues.

Client retention remains high, exceeding 96% and win rates in competitive situations exceed 80%.

"We are very happy to see the continued growth and adoption of our Voyent Alert! SaaS product. The system saw extensive usage this past quarter as a result of the very active fire season experienced in Eastern Canada" stated Brian McKinney, President and CEO. "Our high customer retention rates and client satisfaction are reflective of the value the service continues to deliver across its North American client base."

About ICEsoft Technologies Canada Corp.:

ICEsoft Technologies Canada Corp. is a software-as-a-service ("SaaS") company. ICEsoft's newest product Voyent Alert! is an affordable Community Alerting Service specifically designed to meet the needs of small to medium sized municipalities, regional governments and campuses. The flexible platform serves the dual purpose of alerting and advising residents during a critical incident as well as providing targeted day-to-day communication services.

Forward-Looking Information Advisory

Certain information in this press release is forward-looking within the meaning of certain securities laws, and is subject to important risks, uncertainties and assumptions. This forward-looking information includes, among other things, information with respect to the Corporate Changes, Private Placement and shares for debt transactions, assumptions about future economic conditions and courses of action, and the Company's beliefs, plans, expectations, anticipations, estimates and intentions. The words "may", "could", "should", "would", "suspect", "outlook", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "expect", "intend", "plan", "target" and similar words and expressions are used to identify forward-looking information. The forward-looking information in this material change report describes the Company's expectations as of the date of this news release and accordingly, is subject to change after such date. Readers should not place undue importance on forward-looking information and should not rely upon this information as of any other date. While the Company may elect to, it does not undertake to update this information at any particular time.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/276266

SOURCE: ICEsoft Technologies Canada Corp.
BH Macro Limited - Transaction in Own Shares

PR Newswire

LONDON, United Kingdom, November 28

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

28 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: 28 November 2025 Number of ordinary shares purchased: 137,271 Weighted average price (Sterling/US Dollars as applicable): 3.9696

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 319,220,133 Sterling Shares 58,837,473 Sterling Shares 23,901,261 US Dollar Shares 215,496 US Dollar Shares

From 28 November 2025, the total number of voting rights in the Company (rounded up to the whole number) is 487,752,115.

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
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / November 28, 2025 / SNOWLINE GOLD CORP. (TSX-V:SGD)(US OTCQB:SNWGF) (the "Company" or "Snowline") is pleased to announce that it has received final approval to list its common shares (the "Common Shares") on the Toronto Stock Exchange (the "TSX") and graduate from the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV"). The Common Shares will begin trading on the TSX at market open on December 2, 2025, and will continue to trade under its current symbol, "SGD".

In connection with the TSX listing, the Common Shares will be voluntarily delisted from the TSXV, effective as of the close of market on December 1, 2025. Shareholders are not required to exchange their share certificates or take any other action in connection with the TSX listing, as there will be no change in the trading symbol or CUSIP for the Common Shares.

"This is a significant milestone for the Company, and we are thrilled to have received approval to list on the TSX," said Scott Berdahl, CEO & Director of Snowline. "We expect this listing to enhance our visibility, broaden our investor base, increase liquidity, and provide eligibility for potential index inclusion. This move reflects our rapid progress to derisk our business as well as the high-quality nature of our flagship Valley gold deposit, which is emerging as a globally relevant project."

ABOUT SNOWLINE GOLD CORP.

Snowline Gold Corp. is a Yukon Territory focused gold exploration and development company with mineral claim portfolio covering roughly 360,000 ha (3,600 km2). The Company is advancing its Valley gold deposit - a large, low-strip, near surface, >1 g/t Au bulk tonnage gold system located in the eastern Yukon - while continuing regional exploration of surrounding targets on the Rogue Project and the broader district in the highly prospective yet underexplored Selwyn Basin.

Valley hosts an open mineral resource estimate ("MRE") of 7.94 million ounces gold at 1.21 g/t Au in the Measured and Indicated categories (3.15 million ounces gold at 1.41 g/t Au Measured mineral resources and 4.79 million ounces gold at 1.11 g/t Au Indicated mineral resources) and an additional 0.89 million ounces gold at 0.62 g/t Au in the Inferred category1. Results of a preliminary economic assessment ("PEA") of Valley suggest the potential for the deposit to support a long-life mining operation with a strong production profile and low production costs. The MRE and PEA are supported by the recent technical report for the Rogue Project, prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") standards, entitled "Independent Preliminary Economic Assessment for the Rogue Project Yukon, Canada," dated August 27, 2025, with an effective date of March 1, 2025 and available on SEDAR+ and the Company's website.

Snowline's project portfolio sits within the prolific Tintina Gold Province, host to multiple million-ounce-plus gold mines and deposits across the central Yukon and Alaska. The Company's comprehensive first-mover position and extensive exploration database provide a distinct competitive advantage and a unique opportunity for investors to be part of multiple discoveries, the advancement of a significant gold deposit, and the creation of a new gold district.

QUALIFIED PERSON

Information in this news release has been prepared under supervision of and approved by Thomas Branson, M.Sc., P. Geo., Vice President Exploration for Snowline, as Qualified Person for the purposes of NI 43-101.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

Scott Berdahl

CEO & Director

For further information, please contact:

Snowline Gold Corp.

+1 778 650 5485

info@snowlinegold.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.

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release contains certain forward-looking statements, including statements regarding the listing of the Common Shares on the TSX, concurrent delisting of the Common Shares from the TSXV, the expected benefits of the TSX uplisting, including enhanced visibility, broadened investor base, increased liquidity, and potential eligibility for the index inclusion, MREs and the creation of a new gold district. Wherever possible, words such as "may", "will", "should", "could", "expect", "plan", "intend", "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "predict" or "potential" or the negative or other variations of these words, or similar words or phrases, have been used to identify these forward-looking statements. These statements reflect management's current beliefs and are based on information currently available to management as at the date hereof.

Forward-looking statements involve significant risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Many factors could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from the results discussed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among other things: risks related to uncertainties inherent in drill results and the estimation of mineral resources; and risks associated with executing the Company's plans and intentions. These factors should be considered carefully, and readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based upon what management believes to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure readers that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release, and the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances, except as required by law.

1 Mineral resources are not mineral reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability. The estimate of mineral resources may be materially affected by metal prices, economic factors, environmental, permitting, legal, title, or other relevant issues.

SOURCE: Snowline Gold Corp.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/metals-and-mining/snowline-announces-graduation-to-the-toronto-stock-exchange-1112867
Paris, France, Cambridge, USA, November 28, 2025 - TISSIUM, a Medical Technology company pioneering biomorphic programmable polymers for tissue reconstruction, announced today the ?rst commercial use of COAPTIUM CONNECT at Cooper University Hospital in Camden, New Jersey. The procedure was performed, earlier this month, by Dr. Michael Franco, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon specializing in peripheral nerve surgery.

This milestone marks a signi?cant step forward in the adoption of TISSIUM's atraumatic sutureless nerve repair solution following the FDA De Novo authorization of COAPTIUM CONNECT earlier this year. Designed to enable precise, atraumatic sutureless coaptation of severed peripheral nerves, COAPTIUM CONNECT represents a paradigm shift in how surgeons approach nerve repair.

"We are excited to see patients bene?ting from this technological advance," said Christophe Bancel, Chief Executive Officer of TISSIUM."Dr. Franco's successful use of COAPTIUM CONNECT underscores the potential of TISSIUM's Atraumatic Tissue Repair solution to transform peripheral nerve surgery."

"Atraumatic nerve repair holds tremendous promise for reducing operative complexity and improving functional recovery," said Dr. Michael Franco. "Avoiding trauma to the nerve is my number one goal, and this product does just that. This is the product I've been looking for - with no suture, no barbs, no trauma to the nerve. I am pleased to have performed the ?rst commercial case with this technology."

The commercial introduction of COAPTIUM CONNECT supports TISSIUM's broader strategy of delivering a platform of atraumatic, polymer-based solutions across multiple therapeutic areas. The company continues to advance its pipeline of products, leveraging its proprietary polymer technology to disrupt the ?eld of surgery and positively impact the lives of patients.

About TISSIUM

TISSIUM is a clinical and commercial stage MedTech company based in Paris, France, Cambridge, USA, and with a manufacturing site in Roncq, France. The company is pioneering a proprietary platform of fully biosynthetic, biomorphic, programmable, elastomeric polymers designed to address critical unmet needs in atraumatic tissue repair and tissue reconstruction.

TISSIUM's diversified pipeline includes one commercial product and six products in development across three core verticals: sutureless nerve repair, atraumatic hernia repair, and cardiovascular sealants. Each solution is designed to optimize tissue repair through controlled and consistent procedures with specialized delivery and activation devices to maximize the performance and usability of its products.

Founded in 2013, TISSIUM is built on breakthrough research and intellectual property originating from the laboratories of Professor Robert Langer (MIT) and Professor Jeffrey M. Karp (Brigham and Women's Hospital).

For more information, please visit www.TISSIUM.com and follow us on LinkedIn: TISSIUM.

***

Contacts

Investor relations

Romain Attard - Chief Financial Officer

rattard@tissium.com

Attachment
Villeneuve, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - November 28, 2025) - Sturgeon Public Schools, in partnership with Edmonton Airports and Elevate Aviation, is proud to introduce the Aviation Pathway Program - the first high school aviation program in the Edmonton Region. As Canada's aviation industry faces a critical shortage of skilled workers, this new partnership will help fill the gap by providing students with a one-of-a-kind opportunity to begin their journey toward a career in aviation while still in high school.

Launching in February 2026, the Aviation Pathway Program will operate out of Villeneuve Airport (ZVL), Alberta's premier general aviation and flight training facility. The program will combine classroom learning with hands-on experience in flight operations, ground handling, and aviation customer service. Students will earn Career and Technology Studies (CTS) credits that count toward graduation and gain a direct pathway to post-secondary education and future aviation careers.

"The Board is proud to champion publicly funded education and strong community partnerships while remaining deeply committed to ensuring every student has access to learning opportunities that open doors to a world of possibilities," said Barb McCaffrey Brochu, Board Chair, Sturgeon Public Schools. "The Aviation Pathway Program is a fine example of how collaboration and forward-thinking can turn that vision into reality for our students."

The Aviation Pathway Program will open the door for students in Grades 10 - 12 to learn in a real-world aviation environment surrounded by aircraft, air traffic operations, and industry professionals. With two runways, a NAV Canada control tower and an Instrument Landing System (ILS), ZVL offers a professional training setting unlike any other high school program in the region.

"This partnership is a powerful example of how collaboration between education, industry and community can create opportunities for Alberta's youth," said Myron Keehn, President & CEO, Edmonton Airports. "Villeneuve Airport (ZVL) is the ideal training environment where students can learn, grow and prepare for careers that keep our province and our economy moving."

"Creating real access to aviation begins with meeting students where their curiosity starts. Through our Aviation Career Exploration program, we've already helped thousands of students first discover the sector and see themselves in it," said Nova Andrews, CEO, Elevate Aviation. "This partnership takes the next step by placing high school learners directly inside a working airport, where they can build skills, confidence and a sense of belonging in the industry."

The program not only equips the next generation of aviation professionals with real-world skills but also supports regional economic growth, strengthens local businesses and positions Villeneuve Airport (ZVL) as a hub for innovation and opportunity.

"Sturgeon County is the proud home to Villeneuve Airport and has invested millions to position it for success over time," said Alanna Hnatiw, Mayor of Sturgeon County. "This unique initiative is both a showcase for that potential and a direct support for our next generation of aviation leaders. It creates a clear pathway for our youth, removing barriers for rural students to access exciting and diverse career opportunities close to home. We're excited for it to equip young people with real skills, support job growth in our community, and fuel innovation across the region's growing aviation ecosystem."

"Congratulations on the launch of the Aviation Pathway Program. Alberta's government shares your commitment to giving students more ways to explore jobs in high school, and this program shows how schools and industry can work together to make it happen," said Demetrios Nicolades, Minister of Education and Childcare. "I have no doubt that students will greatly benefit from this exciting opportunity."





Rendering - Aviation Pathway Program - West Sturgeon Collegiate

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11723/276192_f608c3abe443d9ed_001full.jpg





Rendering - Aviation Pathway Program - West Sturgeon Collegiate

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11723/276192_f608c3abe443d9ed_002full.jpg

About Aviation Pathway

The Aviation Pathway builds on Sturgeon Public Schools' growing suite of collegiate programming, designed to connect high school learning with career exploration and post-secondary readiness. By partnering with Edmonton Airports and Elevate Aviation, the division is offering students a hands-on, future-focused learning experience that bridges classroom instruction with real-world application. Learn more at www.sturgeon.ab.ca/programs/collegiate-pathways.

About Elevate Aviation

Elevate Aviation is a Canadian non-profit dedicated to advancing inclusion, mentorship, and professional development within the aviation industry. Through innovative programs, hands-on training, and community partnerships, Elevate Aviation empowers the next generation of aviation professionals and supports a diverse and thriving workforce. Learn more at www.elevateaviation.ca.

About Villeneuve Airport (ZVL)

Villeneuve Airport (ZVL) is operated by Edmonton Airports, which also operates Edmonton International Airport (YEG). ZVL is an important general aviation airport and flight training facility located in Sturgeon County, home to a variety of businesses, including flight training, aircraft maintenance and aviation operations. An economic engine for the region, ZVL generates an economic output of $75 million and supports 300 direct jobs. Learn more at flyzvl.com.

-30-

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/276192

SOURCE: Edmonton International Airport (YEG)
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / November 28, 2025 / Gold Terra Resource Corp. (TSXV:YGT)(Frankfurt:TX0)(OTCQX:YGTFF) ("Gold Terra" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that, further to the news release of November 17, 2025, the Company has closed the over-subscribed non-brokered private placement for total gross proceeds of C$7,000,000 through the issuance of 15 million common shares of the Company (the "Shares") at an issue price of C$0.10 per Share for gross proceeds of C$1,500,000, 35 million charitable flow-through common shares of the Company (the "CFT Shares") at an issue price of C$0.14 per CFT Share for gross proceeds of C$4,900,000, and 5 million flow-through common shares of the Company (the "FT Shares") at an issue price of C$0.12 per FT Share for gross proceeds of C$600,000 with some existing shareholders and insiders (together, the "Offering"). The CFT Shares and the FT Shares will qualify as "flow-through" shares (within the meaning of subsection 66(15) of the Income Tax Act (Canada) (the "Tax Act").

Finder's fees totaling C$28,000 were paid to certain finders. The Offering is non-brokered with no warrants and is subject to the final acceptance of the TSX Venture Exchange.

Directors and officers of Gold Terra participated in the Offering and were issued an aggregate 300,000 Common Shares totaling C$36,000. Such participation in the Offering constitutes a "related party transaction" as defined in Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("61-101"). The Offering is exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of 61-101 as neither the fair market value of the securities issued to related parties nor the consideration for such securities exceed 25% of the Company's market capitalization. The Company did not file a material change report 21 days prior to closing of the Offering as the participation of insiders of the Company in the Offering had not been confirmed at that time.

The Company will use an amount equal to the gross proceeds from the sale of the CFT Shares and the FT Shares to incur eligible "Canadian exploration expenses" that qualify as "flow-through mining expenditures" as both terms are defined in the Tax Act (the "Qualifying Expenditures") on or before December 31, 2026, and will renounce all the Qualifying Expenditures in favour of the subscribers of the CFT Shares and the FT Shares effective December 31, 2025. The Company will use the net proceeds from the sale of the Shares for general corporate purposes and for the upcoming drilling program.

All securities issued pursuant to the Offering are subject to a statutory hold period expiring four months and one day from the closing date of the Offering, being March 29, 2026.

Gerald Panneton, Chairman & CEO commented, "This oversubscribed financing shows strong support from our existing and new shareholders to expand our drilling program at the Con Mine Option property. The net proceeds from the Shares will be used for our upcoming drilling program scheduled to start in January 2026 on the southern extension of the prolific Campbell Shear target near surface and south of the Con Mine Option property. We look forward to advancing our exploration work with the objective of increasing our current mineral resource estimates in 2026."

About Gold Terra

The Yellowknife Project (YP) encompasses 836 sq. km of contiguous land immediately north, south and east of the City of Yellowknife in the Northwest Territories. Through a series of acquisitions, Gold Terra controls one of the six major high-grade gold camps in Canada. Being within 10 kilometres of the City of Yellowknife, the YP is close to vital infrastructure, including all-season roads, air transportation, service providers, hydro-electric power, and skilled tradespeople. Gold Terra is currently focusing its drilling on the prolific Campbell Shear, where approximately 14 Moz of gold has been produced, (refer to Gold Terra Oct 21, 2022, Technical Report) and most recently on the Con Mine Option (CMO) property claims immediately south of the past producing Con Mine which produced 6.1 Moz between the Con, Rycon, and Campbell shear structures (1938-2003).

The YP and CMO properties lie on the prolific Yellowknife greenstone belt, covering nearly 70 kilometres of strike length along the main mineralized shear system that hosts the former-producing high-grade Con and Giant gold mines. The Company's exploration programs have successfully identified significant zones of gold mineralization and multiple targets that remain to be tested which reinforces the Company's objective of re-establishing Yellowknife as one of the premier gold mining districts in Canada.

Visit our website at www.goldterracorp.com.

For more information, please contact:

Gerald Panneton, Chairman & CEO

gpanneton@goldterracorp.com

Mara Strazdins, Investor Relations

Phone: 1-778-897-1590 | 1-416-710-0646

strazdins@goldterracorp.com

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.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

Certain statements made and information contained in this news release constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation ("forward-looking information"). Generally, this forward-looking information can, but not always, be identified by 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", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events, conditions or results "will", "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved" or the negative connotations thereof.

All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is necessarily based on estimates and assumptions that are inherently 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. In particular, this news release contains forward-looking information regarding the expected use of proceeds from the Offering, the scheduled start of the drilling program in January 2026, the objective of increasing the Company's current mineral resource estimates in 2026 and the Company's objective of re-establishing Yellowknife as one of the premier gold mining districts in Canada.

There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as the Company's actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in this forward-looking information as a result of the factors discussed in the "Risk Factors" section in the Company's most recent MD&A and annual information form available under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com.

Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that would cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is based on information available to the Company as of the date of this news release. 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. All of the forward-looking information contained in this news release is qualified by these cautionary statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information due to the inherent uncertainty thereof. Except as required under applicable securities legislation and regulations applicable to the Company, the Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update this forward-looking information.

SOURCE: Gold Terra Resource Corp

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/metals-and-mining/gold-terra-annouces-closing-of-oversubscribed-c7.0-million-private-placement-1112862
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - November 28, 2025) - PesoRama Inc. (TSXV: PESO) (OTC Pink: PSSOF) (FSE: ZE6) ("PesoRama" or the "Company"), a Canadian company operating dollar stores in Mexico under the JOI DOLLAR PLUS brand, is pleased to announce the final closing of the Company's equity offering, first announced on October 20, 2025, for gross proceeds of $5,000,000. Pursuant to the offering, the Company sold an aggregate of 20,000,000 units of the Company (each, a "Unit") at a price of $0.25 per Unit.

"We continue to gain momentum with our continually expanding offering of product and store openings and this financing will further fuel our expansion plans," said Rahim Bhaloo, CEO of PesoRama. "We thank our shareholders, new and existing, for their continued support and look forward to continue to update you as we rollout new store locations across Mexico City and beyond."

Each Unit is comprised of one common share of the Company (a "Common Share") and one Common Share purchase warrant of the Company (a "Warrant"). Each Warrant will entitle the holder thereof to acquire one Common Share (a "Warrant Share") at a price of $0.40 per Warrant Share for a period of 18 months from January 27, 2026, being the date that is 60 days following the closing date (such date of expiration, the "Warrant Expiry Date"). From today and until the Warrant Expiry Date, in the event that the daily volume-weighted average trading price of the Common Shares on a recognized Canadian stock exchange, which includes the TSX Venture Exchange ("TSXV"), is equal to or greater than $0.60 over a ten consecutive trading-day period, the Company may, at its option, within ten business days following such ten-day period, accelerate the Warrant Expiry Date by issuing a press release, (a "Warrant Acceleration Notice"), and, in such case, the Warrant Expiry Date shall be deemed to be the date that is thirty (30) days following the issuance of the Warrant Acceleration Notice.

In this final closing, an aggregate of 6,000,000 Units were issued pursuant to private placements to accredited investors in Canada and the U.S. for gross proceeds of $1,500,000. In the first closing, which occurred and was announced on November 21, 2025, an aggregate of 14,000,000 Units were issued pursuant to the listed issuer financing exemption (LIFE) under Part 5A of National Instrument 45-106.

In connection with this closing, the Company will pay a cash commission of up to $105,000 and will issue up to 420,000 non-transferable finder warrants (each, a "Finder Warrant") to arm's-length finders. Each Finder Warrant is exercisable into one Unit at a price of $0.25 at any time on or before May 29, 2027.

The Company intends to use the net proceeds raised from the offering for store expansion and working capital.

The offering remains subject to final approval of the TSXV.

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 the United States or in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. The securities have not been and will not be registered under 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.

MI 61-101 Disclosure

The offering constituted a "related party transaction" as defined in Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Securityholders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"), as insiders of the Company and their related parties subscribed for a total of 400,000 Units. The Company is relying on the exemptions from the valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 contained in sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, as the fair market value of the participation in the offering by the insiders does not exceed 25% of the market capitalization of the Company, as determined in accordance with MI 61-101. The Company did not file a material change report in respect of the related party transaction at least 21 days before the closing of the offering, which the Company deems reasonable in the circumstances so as to be able to avail itself of the proceeds of the offering in an expeditious manner.

About PesoRama Inc.

PesoRama, operating under the JOI DOLLAR PLUS brand, is a Mexican value dollar store retailer. PesoRama launched operations in 2019 in Mexico City and the surrounding areas targeting high density, high traffic locations. PesoRama's 29 stores offer consistent merchandise offerings which include items in the following categories: household goods, pet supplies, seasonal products, party supplies, health and beauty, snack food items, confectionery and more. For more information visit: http://pesorama.ca.

Cautionary Note

This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including, among other things, statements regarding the intended use of proceeds of the offering and the final approval of the closing of the offering by the TSXV. While the Company believes that the expectations reflected in this forward-looking information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on them because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Readers are cautioned to not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements, including due to changes in consumer behaviour, general economic factors, the ability of the Company to execute its strategies, the availability of capital and the risk factors which are discussed in greater detail in the "Risk Factors" section of the Company's prospectus dated January 31, 2022 and filed under the Company's profile on www.sedarplus.ca. The statements in this press release are made as of the date of this release. PesoRama undertakes no obligation to comment on analyses, expectations or statements made by third-parties in respect of PesoRama, its securities, or its financial or operating results (as applicable).

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/276288

SOURCE: PesoRama Inc.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - November 28, 2025) - Arya Resources Ltd. (TSXV: RBZ) ("Arya" or the "Company") is pleased to announce a Critical Mineral Flow-Through ("CMETC") financing of up to $500,000 to support exploration targeting critical minerals at its Dunlop Nickel-Copper-Cobalt (Ni-Cu-Co) Project in Saskatchewan.

CMETC Financing Details

The Company will conduct a non-brokered private placement (the "CMETC Offering") of up to 1,515,151 critical mineral flow-through common shares (the "CMETC Shares") at a price of $0.33 per CMETC Share, for gross proceeds of up to $500,000.

The CMETC Shares will qualify as "flow-through shares" under the Income Tax Act (Canada) (the "ITA"). Arya intends to apply the gross proceeds toward eligible Canadian exploration expenses and flow-through mining expenditures (as defined in the ITA) at its Dunlop Ni-Cu-Co Project. Expenditures will focus on critical minerals to support proposed eligibility under the Critical Mineral Exploration Tax Credit (CMETC).

Completion of the CMETC Offering and associated tax renunciations is subject to customary closing conditions and receipt of all required regulatory approvals, including the TSX Venture Exchange and the Canada Revenue Agency.

Current Financing Update and Amendment

The CMETC Offering is in addition to the Company's previously announced non-brokered private placement (the "Current Offering") of:

(i) standard (non-CMETC) flow-through shares, and

(ii) non-flow-through shares as disclosed on September 22, 2025.

The flow-through component of the Current Offering has been amended to consist of 1,818,182 standard (non-CMETC) flow-through shares at a price of $0.33 per share (no warrant), for unchanged gross proceeds of $600,000.

The Current Offering is expected to close no later than December 24, 2025, subject to further extension if granted by the TSX Venture Exchange.

Qualified Person

This news release has been reviewed by Kevin Wells, P.Geo., who is acting as the Qualified Person (QP) for this project under National Instrument 43-101 requirements.

About Arya Resources Ltd. (TSXV: RBZ)

Arya Resources Ltd. is a Canadian mineral exploration company focused on the acquisition, exploration, and development of precious and critical-metal projects in Saskatchewan. The Company is advancing its flagship Wedge Lake Gold Project and its Dunlop Nickel-Copper-Cobalt Project, both located in mining-friendly jurisdictions with excellent infrastructure.

As a Tier 2 issuer on the TSX Venture Exchange, Arya is committed to building shareholder value through discovery-driven exploration, disciplined execution, and responsible development. For more information, please visit us at www.aryaresourcesltd.com.

On behalf of the Board of Directors:

Rasool Mohammad, CEO

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release includes "forward-looking statements" that are subject to assumptions, risks and uncertainties. Statements in this news release which are not purely historical are forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, any statements concerning the Company's intentions, plans, estimates, expectations or beliefs. Although the Company believes that any forward-looking statements in this news release are reasonable, there can be no assurance that any such forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate. The Company cautions readers that all forward-looking statements, including, without limitation to those relating to the Company's future operations and business prospects, are based on assumptions, none of which can be assured, and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such risks and uncertainties and should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release, and the Company assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual events or results could or do differ from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, the Company assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/276302

SOURCE: Arya Resources Ltd.
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - November 28, 2025) - Sprock-it Acquisitions Ltd. (TSXV: SPRO.P) ("Sprock-it"), a capital pool company, and U92 Corp. ("U92"), further to Sprock-it's previous press release dated September 9, 2025, are pleased to announce the terms of the concurrent financing (the "Offering") to be completed by U92, in connection with a reverse takeover of Sprock-it by the shareholders of U92.

The Offering will be structured as a brokered private placement of 8,510,800 subscription receipts of U92 (each, a "Subscription Receipt"), on a best efforts basis, at a price of C$0.45 per Subscription Receipt for gross proceeds of C$3,829,860 (the "Offering"), pursuant to the terms of an agency agreement to be entered into among U92, Sprock-it and Canaccord Genuity Corp. (the "Agent").

The Offering is being conducted in connection with the proposed business combination between Sprock-it and U92 (the "Transaction"), as previously announced and described in press releases dated June 26, 2025 and September 9, 2025, that will result in the reverse takeover of Sprock-it by U92 (Sprock-it, as it will exist following the completion of the Transaction, the "Resulting Issuer") and would constitute Sprock-it's "Qualifying Transaction" as such term is defined under Policy 2.4 - Capital Pool Companies of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV").

Upon satisfaction of certain conditions (collectively, the "Escrow Release Conditions"), immediately prior to the closing of the Transaction, each Subscription Receipt will automatically be converted into a unit of U92 (each, a "Unit") without further payment or action on the part of the holder. Each Unit will consist of one (1) common share in the capital of U92 (each, a "U92 Share") and one (1) common share purchase warrant of U92 (each, a "Warrant"). Each such Warrant will be exercisable into one (1) U92 Share at an exercise price of C$0.65 per U92 Share. Immediately after conversion of the Subscription Receipts: (a) each U92 Share issued pursuant to the conversion of the Subscription Receipts will automatically be exchanged pursuant to the terms of the Transaction into one (1) common share in the capital of the Resulting Issuer (each, a "Resulting Issuer Share"); and (b) each Warrant issued pursuant to the conversion of the Subscription Receipts will automatically be exchanged pursuant to the terms of the Transaction into one (1) common share purchase warrant of the Resulting Issuer (each, a "Resulting Issuer Warrant"). Each Resulting Issuer Warrant will be exercisable into one (1) Resulting Issuer Share at an exercise price of C$0.65 per Resulting Issuer Share for a period of five (5) years from the Closing Date (as defined below).

The gross proceeds of the Offering less the portion of the Commission (as defined below) payable in connection with orders from retail brokers and certain reasonable costs and expenses of the Agent will be held in escrow and, upon the satisfaction or waiver of the Escrow Release Conditions, the net proceeds will be released to U92 and the remaining Commission payable to the Agent will be released to the Agent. The net proceeds of the Offering will be used for working capital and general corporate purposes. In the event that the Escrow Release Conditions are not satisfied within 60 days following the closing of the Offering (the "Outside Date"), and subject to agreement by the Agent and U92 to extend the Outside Date, U92 is required to return to holders of Subscription Receipts the proceeds of the Offering and the Subscription Receipts will be cancelled.

U92 has agreed to pay the Agent a cash commission (the "Commission") equal to 6.0% of the aggregate gross proceeds of the Offering, other than in respect of proceeds raised from purchasers on a president's list (the "President's List"), subject to a maximum size of C$2,000,000, in respect of which the Commission payable to the Agent will be reduced to 2.0% of the gross proceeds of such sales and excluding sales to certain purchasers by members of the selling group, in which case a fee of 9.0% of the gross proceeds will be paid. In addition, U92 will issue to the Agent such number of broker warrants (each, a "Broker Warrant") as is equal to 6.0% of the aggregate number of Subscription Receipts sold under the Offering, other than in respect of Subscription Receipts sold to purchasers on the President's List, in respect of which the Agent shall receive Broker Warrants equal to 3.0% of such aggregate sales and sales to certain purchasers by members of the selling group, in respect of which U92 will issue Broker Warrants equal to 9.0% of such aggregate sales. Each Broker Warrant will ultimately entitle the Agent to purchase one (1) Resulting Issuer Share at a price of C$0.45 for a period of 24 months following the date of the satisfaction of the Escrow Release Conditions.

The closing of the Offering is expected to take place on or about December 1, 2025, or such later date as may be agreed to by U92 and the Agent (the "Closing Date").

The Subscription Receipts will be offered by way of private placement pursuant to exemptions from prospectus requirements to residents in all provinces and territories of Canada and such other jurisdictions as may be agreed to by U92 and the Agent. Subject to applicable laws and the provisions of the agency agreement to be entered into among U92, Sprock-it and the Agent with respect to the Offering, the Agent may offer the Subscription Receipts outside of Canada, including in the United States, by way of private placement pursuant to and in compliance with applicable securities laws.

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 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 unless an exemption from such registration is available.

The TSXV has not yet conditionally approved the Transaction or the listing of the Resulting Issuer Shares or Resulting Issuer Warrants underlying the Subscription Receipts.

The Subscription Receipts will not be listed on any exchange and shall be subject to an indefinite hold period as set out in National Instrument 45-102 - Resale of Securities. The Resulting Issuer Shares and the Resulting Issuer Warrants ultimately issuable upon the conversion of the Subscription Receipts and subsequent exchange, and the Resulting Issuer Shares issuable upon due exercise of the Resulting Issuer Warrants, if any, will not be subject to a hold period under applicable securities legislation in Canada.

About U92 Corp.

U92 was incorporated under the Business Corporations Act (Ontario) on December 13, 2024. U92 is not a reporting issuer in any province or territory of Canada.

U92 is a uranium exploration company, which has entered into a share purchase agreement, pursuant to which U92 has the right to purchase all of the issued and outstanding shares of a private company organized and existing under the laws of Singapore, which indirectly owns the exploration rights for the Kurupung Project in Guyana, South America. U92 intends to focus on advancing the Kurupung Project. U92 is targeting sustainable, high-grade uranium resources to support the global clean energy transition and is strategically positioned to benefit from the growing demand and supply deficit in the uranium market. U92's flagship Kurupung Project holds a 92.2 km land package in the Aricheng Batholith, a well-established shear-hosted uranium district in Guyana.

Prior to the filing of the filing statement in connection with the Transaction, a technical report in respect of the flagship Kurupung Project will be filed with the appropriate Canadian securities regulatory authorities. The technical report will be prepared in accordance with NI 43-101 and will be available for review under Sprock-it's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

About Sprock-it Acquisitions Ltd.

Sprock-it is a capital pool company, incorporated for the purposes of identifying and evaluating businesses or assets with a view to completing a Qualifying Transaction (as such term is defined under the policies of the TSXV). Sprock-it was incorporated on July 29, 2024 under the Business Corporations Act (Alberta) and is a reporting issuer in the provinces of Alberta, British Columbia and Ontario. The common shares of Sprock-it (the "Sprock-it Shares") are listed for trading on the TSXV. The Sprock-it Shares were halted on June 26, 2025 in connection with the announcement of the Transaction and remain halted as at the date hereof. Until completion of a Qualifying Transaction, Sprock-it will not carry on any business other than the identification and evaluation of assets or businesses with a view to completing a proposed Qualifying Transaction.

Additional Information

All information contained in this news release with respect to U92 and Sprock-it was supplied by the respective parties for inclusion herein, without independent review by the other party, and each party and its directors and officers have relied on the other party for any information concerning the other party.

For further information regarding Sprock-it, U92, the Resulting Issuer or the Transaction, please refer to the filing statement in connection with the Transaction which will be made available under Sprock-it's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains statements which constitute "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws (collectively, "forward-looking statements"), including, without limitation, statements regarding the plans, intentions, beliefs and current expectations of Sprock-it and U92 with respect to future business activities and operating performance. Forward-looking statements are often identified by the words "may", "would", "could", "should", "will", "intend", "plan", "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect" or similar expressions and includes information regarding: (a) expectations regarding whether the Transaction or the Offering will be consummated including whether the conditions to the consummation of the Transaction or the Offering or the conversion of the Subscription Receipts will be satisfied; (b) the timing for completing the Offering and the Transaction, if at all, and the size and conditions to such transaction; (c) expectations for other economic, business, and/or competitive factors; and (d) the use of proceeds of the Offering.

Investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not based on historical facts but instead reflect Sprock-it and U92's respective management's expectations, estimates or projections concerning future results or events based on the opinions, assumptions and estimates of management considered reasonable at the date the statements are made. Although Sprock-it and U92 believe that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, such statements involve risks and uncertainties, and undue reliance should not be placed thereon, as unknown or unpredictable factors could have material adverse effects on future results, performance or achievements of the resulting issuer. Among the key factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements are the following: the ability to close the Offering and to consummate the Transaction; the ability to obtain requisite regulatory and shareholder approvals and the satisfaction of other conditions to the consummation of the Transaction on the proposed terms and schedule; the potential impact of the announcement or consummation of the Transaction on relationships, including with regulatory bodies, employees, suppliers, customers and competitors; changes in general economic, business and political conditions, including changes in the financial markets; changes in applicable laws and regulations both locally and in foreign jurisdictions; compliance with extensive government regulation; the risks and uncertainties associated with foreign markets; and the diversion of management time on the Transaction. These forward-looking statements may be affected by risks and uncertainties in the business of Sprock-it and U92 and general market conditions.

Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Although Sprock-it and U92 have 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 and such changes could be material. Sprock-it and U92 do not intend, and do not assume any obligation, to update the forward-looking statements except as otherwise required by applicable law.

Completion of the Transaction is subject to a number of conditions, including but not limited to TSXV acceptance. Where applicable, the Transaction cannot close until the required shareholder approval is obtained. There can be no assurance that the Transaction will be completed as proposed or at all.

Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the management information circular or filing statement prepared in connection with the Transaction, any information released or received with respect to the Transaction may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of Sprock-it should be considered highly speculative.

The TSXV has in no way passed upon the merits of the Transaction and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.

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.

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/276299

SOURCE: Sprock-it Acquisitions Ltd.
The "Hearing Aids 3D Printing Device Market Forecast to 2033" has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The global hearing aids 3D printing device market is set for significant growth in the coming decade. Estimated at USD 488.7 million in 2024, the market is projected to reach USD 942.2 million by 2033, expanding at a CAGR of 7.59% from 2025 to 2033. This surge is largely driven by the increasing prevalence of hearing loss globally, the growing adoption of personalized hearing devices, and advancements in additive manufacturing technologies.

The demand for hearing aids with enhanced comfort and precision is on the rise, fueled by the aging population and the prevalence of age-related and noise-induced hearing loss. Notably, the integration of 3D ear scanning, CAD modeling, and advanced photopolymer printing is revolutionizing the production of hearing aid shells and earmolds, enhancing speed and cost-effectiveness. According to the World Health Organization, by 2050, approximately 2.5 billion people are expected to experience some degree of hearing loss, with over 700 million requiring rehabilitation.

Government efforts to improve accessibility to hearing care and technologies are playing a crucial role in the growth of the 3D printing market for hearing aids. Globally, there is a push to prioritize hearing health within healthcare and inclusion policies. This is evident in increased funding, public procurement initiatives, and partnerships aimed at improving hearing aid accessibility. Programs such as the WHO's hearing care guidance, UNICEF's expanded Assistive Products Catalogue, and ATscale's global partnership highlight a supportive environment for the efficient production of customized, cost-effective hearing aids using 3D printing.

Report Segmentation

This report offers revenue growth forecasts at the global, regional, and country levels, analyzing the latest industry trends from 2021 to 2033 across various sub-segments. The segmentation is categorized by technology, material, product type, and region:

Technology Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021-2033)

Stereolithography

Deposition Modeling

Laser Sintering

Jetting Technology

Electron Beam Melting

Laminated Object Manufacturing

Others

Material Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021-2033)

Polymers

Metals and Alloys

Product Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021-2033)

Hearing Aid Devices

Cochlear Implants

Hearing Aid Shells Earmolds

Hearing Aid Components

Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021-2033)

North America

Europe

Asia-Pacific

Latin America

Middle East and Africa (MEA)

Why You Should Buy This Report

Comprehensive Market Analysis: Access in-depth insights into the market across key regions and segments.

Competitive Landscape: Understand the presence and position of major players in the market.

Future Trends: Identify the key trends and drivers that will shape the market's future.

Actionable Recommendations: Leverage insights to identify new revenue opportunities and inform strategic business decisions.

Report Deliverables

Market intelligence for effective decision-making

Market estimates and forecasts from 2018 to 2030

Growth opportunities and trend analyses

Segment and regional revenue forecasts

Competitive strategy and market share analysis

Listings of product innovations to maintain a competitive edge

Key Attributes:

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 120 Forecast Period 2024-2033 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $488.7 Million Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2033 $942.2 Million Compound Annual Growth Rate 7.5% Regions Covered Global

The companies profiled in this Hearing Aids 3D Printing Device market report include:

Asiga

3D Systems, Inc.

Sonova

Starkey Laboratories, Inc.

Materialise

Formlabs

Rapid Shape GmbH

Prodways Group

EOS GmbH

LuxCreo Inc.

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/e3jao7

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251128799092/en/

Contacts:

ResearchAndMarkets.com

Laura Wood, Senior Press Manager

press@researchandmarkets.com

For E.S.T. Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470

For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630

For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900
Fort Lauderdale, Florida--(Newsfile Corp. - November 28, 2025) - ZEFIRO METHANE CORP. (Cboe CA: ZEFI) (FSE: Y6B) (OTCQB: ZEFIF) (the "Company", "Zefiro", or "ZEFI") announced today it has entered into debt settlement agreements (the "Debt Settlements") with two creditors (the "Creditors") to eliminate an aggregate of $407,855.97 CAD in outstanding debt (the "Debt").

The Debt Settlements will involve a combination of equity issuances and a significant write-down by the Creditors of the amounts owing to them pursuant to the Debt Settlements, the Company will issue an aggregate of 1,127,273 common shares in the capital of the Company (the "Debt Shares") and grant 400,000 stock options, each having an exercise price of $0.40 per share, a one-year expiration period from the date of grant, and vesting in accordance with the terms of Zefiro's stock option plan. The Debt Shares will be issued at a deemed price of $0.275 CAD per Debt Share. Notably, $97,855.97 CAD of the total Debt will be forgiven and settled for no value.

The Company views these strategic Debt Settlements as a positive step toward strengthening its balance sheet and reducing its overall debt obligations.

All common shares issued in connection with the Debt Settlement will be subject to a statutory four month and one day hold period, in accordance with the policies of the CBOE Canada Exchange ("CBOE") and applicable securities laws. The issuance of the Debt Shares is subject to certain conditions including the receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals, including the approval of the CBOE.

About Zefiro Methane Corp.

Zefiro is an Environmental Services Company, specializing in methane abatement. Zefiro strives to be a key commercial force towards Active Sustainability. Leveraging decades of operational expertise, Zefiro is building a new toolkit to clean up air, land, and water sources directly impacted by methane leaks. The Company has built a fully integrated ground operation driven by an innovative monetization solution for the emerging methane abatement marketplace. As an originator of high-quality U.S.-based methane offsets, Zefiro aims to generate long-term economic, environmental, and social returns.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information is often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seeks", "believes", "plans", "expects", "intends", "estimates", "anticipates" and statements that an event or result "may", "will", "should", "could" or "might" occur or be achieved and other similar expressions. In particular, this news release contains forward-looking information including statements regarding: the issuance of Debt Shares and options pursuant to the Debt Settlements. The forward-looking information reflects management's current expectations based on information currently available and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking information. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed timeframes or at all. Forward-looking information in this news release is based on the opinions and assumptions of management considered reasonable as of the date hereof,. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information. The forward-looking information included in this news release is made as of the date of this news release and the Company expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.

###

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/276287

SOURCE: Zefiro Methane Corp.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - November 28, 2025) - Gold Runner Exploration Inc. (CSE: GRUN) (FSE: CE70) ("Gold Runner" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has closed it's previously announced non-brokered private placement financing for gross proceeds of $920,000 from the sale of 4,600,000 units at a price of $0.20 per unit (the "Offering"). Each unit is comprised of one common share of the Company and one common share purchase warrant. Each warrant entitles the holder thereof to acquire one common share of the Company at a price of $0.40 per common share for a period of 60 months from closing of the Offering. The securities issued under the Offering have a hold period expiring four months and one day from the date of issuance pursuant to applicable Canadian securities laws. Closing of the Offering remains subject to regulatory approvals, including approval of the Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE").

Net proceeds from the Offering will be used for exploration and development of the Company's assets, claims and option payments in respect of the Company's projects in the USA, geological evaluation of opportunities in Canada, and for working capital and corporate purposes.

Pursuant to the Offering, the Company paid finder's fees to Canaccord Genuity Corp. and Ventum Financial Corp. consisting of $9,600 in cash and 48,000 broker warrants. Each broker warrant is exercisable for a period of 2 years from the date of issuance at a price of $0.40 per common share.

None of the securities offered in connection with the Offering will be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the securities laws of any state of the United States.

This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any state where such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful.

About Gold Runner Exploration Inc:

Gold Runner Exploration is an experienced exploration company focused on the exploration and development of its portfolio of gold and silver properties located in prolific mining districts of Canada and the USA. Rock Creek gold project is Gold Runner's flagship asset, with 74 unpatented lode mining claims wholly owned and controlled by the Company. Emboldened by the results coming out of Rock Creek, the Company strategically expanded the land position with the acquisition of the nearby Dry Creek prospect and the acquisition of the Falcon silver-gold prospect in September 2022. Between the three properties, all targeting similar mineralization and likely the same hydrothermal system, Gold Runner Exploration now holds 239 total claims in close proximity of one another. These three gold prospects are situated in a region with proven "world class" gold deposits (including Midas, Jerritt Canyon, Betze-Post, Meikle, and Gold Quarry), where the potential of finding large, high-grade gold-silver deposits is favourable. Gold Runner also holds a 10% carried interest in the Cimarron project located in the San Antonio Mountains of Nye County, Nevada, and comprised of 31 unpatented lode mining claims, including control of 6 historically producing claims associated with the historic San Antonio mine. The property is located in the prolific Walker-Lane trend, approximately 44 kms south of the "world class" Round Mountain deposit.

330 5th Ave, Suite 1800

Calgary, AB T2P 0L3

Forward-Looking Information

This news release includes certain information that may be deemed "forward-looking information" under applicable securities laws. All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts, including but not limited to those that address the Offering, CSE approval, and the proposed use of proceeds from the Offering, and activities and events or developments that the Company expects is forward-looking information. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in the statements. There are certain factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking information. These include the results of the Company's activities, market prices, exploration successes, continued availability of capital financing, and general economic, market or business conditions, and those additionally described in the Company's public filings with the Canadian securities authorities.

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 information. For more information on the Company, investors are encouraged to review the Company's public filings at www.sedarplus.ca. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward- looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law.

NEITHER THE CANADIAN SECURITIES EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER HAS REVIEWED OR ACCEPT 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/276310

SOURCE: Gold Runner Exploration Inc.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - November 28, 2025) - TNR Gold Corp. (TSXV: TNR) ("TNR", "TNR Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to provide a corporate update and announce that the Company is continuing its strategic review of developing M&A opportunities.

"TNR Gold Corp is your gateway to the green energy rEVolution and gold stability," stated Kirill Klip, Executive Chairman of TNR Gold Corp. "We're building a leading green energy metals royalty and gold company, offering a unique entry into the supply chains powering the energy transition. With a 1.5% net smelter returns ("NSR") royalty on the Mariana Lithium Project in Argentina (0.15% NSR royalty is held on behalf of a shareholder), operated by Ganfeng Lithium, and a 0.4% NSR royalty on the Los Azules Copper Project with McEwen Inc. (0.04% of NSR royalty is held on behalf of a shareholder) - backed by majors like Rio Tinto and Stellantis - TNR is potentially positioned for significant cash flows without the capital burden. Add to that our 90% stake in the Shotgun Gold Project in Alaska, near the Donlin Gold deposit, with 705,960 ounces of inferred gold resources, and the Company is also well diversified. TNR delivers exposure to lithium, copper, silver and gold, blending blue-sky discovery with partnerships that drive value, in turn offering potential growth with a hedge in today's economic cycle."

Strategic Priorities

Our priorities remain focused on maximizing value for all our shareholders by preventing unnecessary dilution, reducing general and administrative expenses and delivering above the market returns for our investors. Our strategic action plan includes, but is not limited to, the following initiatives:

Marketing Success and Industry Recognition

Recent increased M&A interest from numerous parties suggests that TNR's management (" Management ") has succeeded with its marketing activity by presenting the Company's GEM Royalty Story to the mining and investment industries.

In February 2023, Lithium Royalty Corp. valued only a portion of the Company at US$9 million, based on its purchase of the 0.5% NSR royalty involving the Mariana Lithium project for US $9 million.

Our team has successfully repaid TNR Gold's investment loan in full, returning our shareholders all our assets free from encumbrance. The value generated from delivering that strategic transaction has justified Management's stance on rejecting other opportunistic low-ball offers.

Delivering Value in Uncertain Times and Planning Ahead

Management has succeeded in delivering solid values in uncertain times. The Company's share price has performed above the market average, not only during very challenging market times of the COVID-19 pandemic, but also during the market rout following the U.S. tariff announcements. This has justified the strategy of TNR's board of directors (the " Board ") of presenting the Company as a structural hedge in an investment portfolio.

Management has been investing in TNR Gold for over than two decades and continues to support our Company by participating in private placements, even during the darkest hours of the COVID-19 pandemic. Management resumed its buying of shares of the Company and increased its stake in TNR Gold.

Management proposes to hold its 2026 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders on June 16, 2026. Further details will be provided closer to the meeting and included in its management information circular for such meeting. The Company will place before the meeting its audited financial statements for its financial year ended December 31, 2025. Items of annual business include election of directors and appointment of auditor. The Company will also present its stock option plan for annual approval in accordance with the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange.

Strategic Growth and Stability

TNR Gold's assets are now well recognized within the mining and investment industries. The Company has received indications of further M&A interest from numerous parties and even successfully defended our Company from the opportunistic low-ball hostile takeover attempts.

On October 12, 2023, TNR announced that the Board had formed a special committee comprised of independent directors (the " Special Committee ") to consider and evaluate strategies to maximize shareholder value, including pursuing one or more strategic transactions. Management continues to work diligently with the Special Committee in order to capitalize on potential transactions, including potential further royalty acquisitions. We believe the Company is a leader among its industry peers in maintaining integrity and consideration towards our retail shareholders, while prioritizing the discipline in order to unlock the full potential valuations of our assets. TNR's Shareholder Rights Plan allows us to pursue the most appealing transactions for the benefit of all our shareholders while avoiding predatory tactics like crawling takeover attempts and low-ball opportunistic offers.

Management is currently working on new avenues to open the new chapter of growth for the Company's GEM royalty, including trying to facilitate potential strategic alliances with major mining companies and investment institutions. If successful, such alliances would allow us to unlock higher valuations of our royalty holdings and generate new capital without diluting the Company's current shareholders.

Management believes that in order to maximize shareholder value and reach the potential valuations reflecting the intrinsic value of the Company's assets, TNR must preserve capital, reduce its number of outstanding shares, and seek outside investment for the development of the Shotgun Gold Project.

Management believes that potential cash flow expected to be generated from TNR's royalties and capital management strategy would be well used to implement a normal course issuer bid (subject to regulatory approval) in order to reduce the Company's float of shares and deliver returns to its shareholders.

Management is considering the best value-creation strategies for the Shotgun Gold Project and has put in place the corporate structure of AmeriGold - the stand-alone company that could potentially inherit the Shotgun Gold Project joint venture operations after the contemplated potential spinout from TNR Gold.

By maintaining this strategic approach, we aim to continue generating substantial value for our shareholders while ensuring long-term stability and growth.

"We are building the Green Energy Metals Royalty and Gold Company," continued Kirill Klip. "Our business model provides a unique entry point into the creation of supply chains for critical materials like energy metals which are powering the Energy rEVolution, and the gold industry which is providing the ultimate hedge during this part of the economic cycle. Our shareholders are participating in the building of The Green Energy Metals Royalty and Gold Company. In our portfolio, we have a unique combination of assets providing exposure to different parts of the mining cycle, starting with the power of blue-sky discovery and including partnerships with industry leaders like McEwen Inc. Ganfeng Lithium, Lundin Mining and BHP as operators on the projects that could potentially generate royalty cashflows to contribute significant value for our shareholders."

TNR Gold's motto remains: "Solid Values in Uncertain Times".

Shotgun Gold Project - Alaska

The Shotgun Gold Project is an advanced-stage exploration prospect in southwestern Alaska. The Company's exploration field program in 2022-2023 at the Shotgun and Winchester prospects, located in the Taylor Mountain Quadrangle, Alaska, investigated the geochemical anomalies generated by the 1998 Novagold Resources soil surveys and the geophysical targets indicated by anomalies from the SJ Geophysics 2011 and 2012 EM surveys.

"The Company's strategy with the Shotgun Gold Project is to attract a partnership with a major gold mining company. TNR Gold has successfully consolidated and updated its mining claims in Alaska and is actively introducing the project to interested parties," commented Kirill Klip. "There is a clear path on how to move this prospective project forward using the geological and geophysical research currently available to target drilling to expand the resource. The next step is to acquire a partner that shares our vision and recognizes the growth potential and value to be added to the Shotgun Gold Project over time. The latest exploration program allows us to provide additional information on TNR's Shotgun Gold Project for our potential strategic partners."

The strategy presented to potential strategic partners involves the creation of a joint venture with a major gold mining company, where TNR's partner would invest substantial capital in the development of the Shotgun Gold Project while earning a stake in the project.

TNR Gold shareholders would benefit from the strategic partner's capital being invested "in the ground", and industry expertise, including operations in Alaska.

Management is investigating the best value-creation strategies for the Shotgun Gold Project and has put in place the corporate structure of AmeriGold - the stand-alone company that could potentially inherit the Shotgun Gold Project joint venture operations after a potential spinout from TNR Gold.

TNR holds a 90% interest in the Shotgun Gold Project that is located 190 kilometres south of the Donlin Gold Project deposits within the Kuskokwim Gold Belt in southwestern Alaska. This area is emerging as a multi-million-ounce gold district. The Shotgun property includes a number of prospects, including Shotgun Ridge and nearby Winchester. The Donlin Gold Project is an intrusion-associated system and represents one of the largest undeveloped gold deposits in the world. The Company believes that there are several key similarities between prospects on the Shotgun property and those of the Donlin Gold Project deposits, as well as other important intrusion-associated deposits worldwide.

The Company is targeting a large tonnage porphyry system at Shotgun Ridge. Structural repeats, as interpreted from airborne magnetic data and ground geophysical surveys, provide TNR with encouraging targets for future drill testing.

Detailed information about the inferred mineral resource estimate is included in the technical report titled, "Technical Report on the Shotgun Gold Project, Southwest Alaska", dated May 27, 2013 that can be found on the TNR Gold website at www.tnrgoldcorp.com or on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

Mariana Lithium NSR Royalty Holding

On February 20, 2025, TNR Gold announced that Ganfeng Lithium Group Co., Ltd. ("Ganfeng") provided an update on the Mariana Lithium Project. TNR holds a 1.5% NSR royalty on the Mariana Lithium Project in Argentina, of which 0.15% NSR royalty is held on behalf of a shareholder of TNR.

On February 14, 2025, Ganfeng announced commencement of formal production of the Mariana Lithium salt-lake project in Argentina. Ganfeng stated in its announcement:

"A production ceremony for the first phase of the Mariana lithium salt-lake project in Argentina owned by Litio Minera Argentina S.A. (hereinafter referred to as "LMA"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ganfeng Lithium Group Co., Ltd. was held at the project site on 12 February 2025, which means the formal production of the first phase of the Mariana lithium salt-lake project.

Mariana lithium salt-lake project is located in Salta Province, Argentina, with total lithium resources of approximately 8,121,000 tons of LCE currently explored. After the formal production of the first phase of Mariana lithium salt-lake project with an annual production capacity of 20,000 tons of lithium chloride production line, the Company will actively accelerate the ramp-up of the production capacity of the project. With the gradual release of production capacity, the supply and cost structure of the lithium resources of the Company will be further optimized, the Company's profitability will be enhanced, and the Company's core competitiveness in the global market will be continuously improved.

The Company will perform the corresponding procedures and obligation of information disclosure according to the subsequent progress of the relevant matters. Investors are advised to invest rationally and pay attention to the investment risks."

On April 30, 2025, Ganfeng in Its 2024 Annual Report stated:

"Mariana is a lithium-potassium salt lake located in Salta Province, Argentina. According to a technical report issued by Golder Associates Consulting Ltd., the total lithium resources at the Mariana lithium salt lake project amounted to approximately 8,120,000 tons of LCE. The construction of the project has been completed. In February 2025, the production line for phase I of the Mariana lithium salt-lake project with a planned annual production capacity of 20,000 tons of lithium chloride was officially put into operation. The Company will accelerate the progress of the production capacity ramp-up of the project, and it is expected that the Mariana project will gradually supply lithium chloride products in a stable manner from the second half of 2025 onwards."

On September 30, 2025, Ganfeng in Its 2025 Interim Report stated:

"Securing high-quality and stable lithium resources is fundamental to the long-term sustainable growth of our business. The Company adheres to the aim of globalizing the layout of its resources, and will continuously expand its current lithium resources portfolio through further exploration, and actively improve the self- sufficiency rate of resources of the Company. In terms of brine, the Company will proactively advance the development and construction of the Mariana lithium salt-lake project..."

"We are very pleased that Ganfeng officially inaugurated the Mariana Lithium's start of production at a 20,000 tons-per-annum lithium chloride plant on February 12, 2025," commented Kirill Klip. "We are looking forward to our first NSR royalty cash flow payment from the Mariana Lithium Project.

TNR does not have to contribute any capital for the development of the Mariana Lithium Project, the Los Azules Copper Project or the Josemaria Project. The essence of our business model is to have industry leaders like Ganfeng as operators on the projects that will potentially generate royalty cashflows to contribute significant value for our shareholders."

Los Azules Copper, Gold and Silver NSR Royalty Holding

On October 10, 2025, TNR Gold announced that McEwen Inc. provided an update on the Los Azules Copper Project in San Juan, Argentina. TNR holds a 0.4% NSR royalty (of which 0.04% of the 0.4% royalty is held on behalf of a shareholder of TNR) on the Los Azules Copper Project. The Los Azules Copper Project is held by McEwen Copper Inc., a subsidiary of McEwen Inc.

An excerpt from a news release issued by McEwen Inc. on October 7, 2025, is below. For additional details, please refer to the McEwen Inc. website.

"McEwen Copper Inc., 46.4% owned by McEwen Inc. is pleased to announce positive results from the independent Feasibility Study (FS) for its 100%-owned Los Azules copper project in San Juan, Argentina.

The FS confirms Los Azules as a long-life, low-cost producer of high-purity copper cathodes with strong economic returns and sustainability. The project design advances Los Azules toward construction readiness within a framework that reduces its environmental footprint. Project risk has been further reduced through a strategic collaboration agreement with IFC to potentially lead debt financing and additional funding proposals for infrastructure and construction.

With these results, Los Azules is positioned to become a supplier of responsibly produced copper, critical to the global energy transition towards a low-carbon sustainable future.

"The Los Azules Feasibility Study is more than a technical milestone - it's a blueprint for the future of copper mining. We have delivered a plan for a long-life asset that will play a role in the world's clean-energy transition. Copper is the foundation of electrification and the modern world, and Los Azules is ready to contribute to that global supply chain - responsibly, efficiently, and profitably," said Rob McEwen, Chairman and Chief Owner of McEwen Inc.

"With this Feasibility Study, our team has transformed the geological potential of Los Azules into a clear, actionable development plan. This work gives us confidence in the project's design, costs, and schedule, providing the foundation for the next stage of growth."

"Having significant experience with large-scale construction and mining operations in Argentina, I am confident that we have the right plan, the right team, and the right partnerships to develop Los Azules. Together with our local communities and government partners, we aim to create Argentina's first regenerative copper mine - a model for responsible and innovative mining," said Michael Meding, Vice President of McEwen Copper and General Manager of Los Azules.

This press release starts with the FS Highlights below, followed by Footnotes, a Glossary of Terms, Units and Abbreviations and continues with a detailed account of the study in a Technical Appendix.

FS Highlights

Simple Takeaways

Economics After-tax (1) :

NPV(8%) $2.9B

IRR 19.8%

Payback Period 3.9 yrs

Initial Capital $3.17B

Copper Cathode Production (2) :

Average Years 1-5 204,800 tonnes per year (451M lbs/yr)

Life of Mine 21 years

Average Production 148,200 t/yr (327M lbs/yr)

Costs:

C1 cash cost $1.71/lb

AISC $2.11/lb

Scale - Reserves and Resources (3) :

Mineral Reserves

- Proven & Probable 10.2B lbs Cu (1.02 B tonnes at 0.45% Cu)



Mineral Resources (exclusive of Reserves)

- Measured & Indicated 5.4B lbs Cu (0.97 B tonnes at 0.26% Cu)

- Inferred 20.0B lbs Cu (4.24 B tonnes at 0.21% Cu)

Capital Intensity Using:

LOM Capital &

Production $1,600/t Cu

Initial Capital &

Avg. Annual Production $20,200/t Cu per yr

Designed for Low Impact

Leach + SX/EW process produces 99.99% copper cathodes (LME Grade A) on site (no smelter required).

Project design provides:

- 72% lower mine-to-metal carbon intensity than industry average for mine-to-metal

- 100% renewable power(4) (wind, hydro, solar)

- 74% less water use than conventional milling

- No tailings dam

Carbon-neutral (Scopes 1 & 2) goal by 2038.

De-risked Regulatory Status

Environmental Impact Statement EIA (Environmental Permit) for construction and operation was approved by the San Juan Provincial Government's Ministry of Mines in December, 2024.

Accepted into Argentina's Large Investment Incentive Regime (RIGI) in September, 2025, providing tax, foreign exchange and customs stability for 30 years, legal certainty, foreign exchange regulations allowing to leave export proceeds abroad in increasing steps that will reach 100% by the time the project starts exports and access to international arbitration in case of disputes.

Ownership & Partners

Ownership: McEwen Inc. 46.4%, Stellantis 18.3%, Nuton (Rio Tinto) 17.2%,

Rob McEwen 12.7%, Victor Smorgon Grp 3%, Others 2.4%.

Preliminary finance proposals from Tier-1 OEMs (Komatsu, Sandvik & others), YPF Luz, European ECAs, and a collaboration agreement with IFC(5) to align with IFC's ESG standards and for potential financing. Indicative proposals could support $1.1B+(6) in equipment and infrastructure financing.

Future Growth Opportunities Beyond the FS

Nuton leaching technology (Rio Tinto venture) could allow processing of primary ores with the existing infrastructure (indicative recoveries >76%), or a Conventional Concentrator could also provide higher copper recoveries, plus recover gold and silver as well. Either process could extend mine life by 30+ years by economically treating primary sulfides. Neither of these opportunities are included in the FS base case. Exploration has shown that there are four porphyry targets near the Los Azules deposit that could provide further extension to the mine life. Exploration of the newly identified targets will start in Q4 2025. High-priority targets near Los Azules include Tango, Porfido Norte, Franca, and Mercedes.

Timeline & Next Steps

FS NI 43-101 Technical Report to be filed: within 45 days (7) .

Water concession: application under review.

Construction target: 2026 -> SX/EW startup: 2029 -> First copper: 2030.

Footnotes to Highlights

(1) NI 43-101 feasibility study using a copper price of $4.35/lb or $9,592/ tonne for cash flow modeling.

(2) Average copper recovery is 70.8% over the life of mine.

(3) For additional details on the calculation of Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves see Section 3 of the Technical Appendix, Mineral Resource & Reserve Estimates.

(4) Power supply 100% renewable, with 48% lower electricity demand than a conventional concentrator.

(5) Collaboration agreement signed with IFC to align with IFC's ESG standards for potential future financing, an important milestone in McEwen Copper's broader financing strategy.

(6) Preliminary financing proposals from Tier-1 OEMs, YPF Luz, and European ECAs could provide $1.1B+ in equipment and infrastructure support.

(7) The FS NI 43-101 Technical Report will be filed within 45 days on SEDAR and McEwen Inc.'s website.

ABOUT MCEWEN INC.

McEwen Inc. shares trade on both the NYSE and TSX under the ticker MUX.

It provides shareholders with exposure to a growing base of gold and silver production in addition to a very large copper development project, all in the Americas. The gold and silver mines are in prolific mineral-rich regions of the world, the Cortez Trend in Nevada, USA, the Timmins district of Ontario, Canada and the Deseado Massif in Santa Cruz province, Argentina. McEwen Inc. is considering reactivating a gold and silver mine in Mexico.

It has a 46.4% interest in the large, long-life, advanced-stage Los Azules copper development project in San Juan province, Argentina - a region that hosts some of the country's largest copper deposits. The Los Azules copper project is designed to be one of the world's first regenerative copper mines and carbon neutral by 2038.

Rob McEwen, Chairman and Chief Owner, has a personal cost basis for his investment in the companies of over $200 million and takes a salary of $1 per year, aligning his interests closely with shareholders. He is a recipient of the Order of Canada, a member of the Canadian Mining Hall of Fame and a winner of the Ernest & Young Entrepreneur of the Year (Energy) award. His objective is to build MUX's profitability, share value and eventually implement a dividend policy, as he did while building Goldcorp Inc.

ABOUT MCEWEN COPPER

McEwen Copper Inc. is a Canadian-based private company with a 100% interest in the Los Azules copper project in San Juan, Argentina and the Elder Creek copper/gold project in Nevada, USA.

Based on S&P Global data for 2024, Los Azules projected annual production would rank it as the 26th worldwide, once in production, placing it in the top 6% of all 423 copper producers. The project also ranks 10th globally in terms of total Mineral Resources among all undeveloped copper porphyry deposits (company disclosure).

Los Azules is being designed to provide a model to the industry for a more sustainable, low-carbon future and to help improve public perception of mining by fundamentally differing from conventional copper mines - substantially reducing water consumption and carbon emissions and operating on 100% renewable electricity once in production."

For further details, visit the McEwen Inc. website.

Qualified Persons

The McEwen Copper feasibility study technical report has an effective date of September 3, 2025.

The feasibility study and associated news disclosures were reviewed and verified by the following qualified persons who are independent consultants of McEwen Copper:

Technical aspects of the news release related to Project Execution, Development information, and other information excluding mineral resource disclosure - James L. Sorensen - FAusIMM Reg. No. 221286 with Samuel Engineering.

Technical aspects of the news release related to Metallurgical Summary and Process Information - Michael McGlynn - SME Registered Member No. 4149430 with Samuel Engineering.

Disclosure related to the updated Los Azules mineral resource estimate - Jeff Sullivan - FAusIMM Reg. No. 201778 with CRM-SA, LLC.

Disclosure related to the initial Los Azules mining, and mineral reserve estimate - Gordon Zurowski, P.Eng with AGP Mining Consultants.

Technical aspects of the news release related to Financial Modeling - Steve Pozder - P.E. with Samuel Engineering.

The McEwen Inc. press release appears to be reviewed and verified by a Qualified Person (as that term is defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects) and the procedures, methodology and key assumptions disclosed therein are those adopted and consistently applied in the mining industry, but no Qualified Person engaged by TNR has done sufficient work to analyze, interpret, classify or verify McEwen's information to determine the current mineral resource or other information referred to in its press releases. Accordingly, the reader is cautioned in placing any reliance on the disclosures therein.

Kirill Klip stated, "We are pleased that McEwen Copper has reached this major milestone releasing feasibility study after it secured an environmental permit for the construction and operation of the Los Azules copper project. The feasibility study confirms that Los Azules copper is economically robust project with leading ESG performance. The collaboration between McEwen Copper and IFC, and admission to the Argentina Regime of Incentives for Investment (RIGI) could move the Los Azules copper project development closer to a construction decision.

The new president of Argentina has introduced important government policies aimed at supporting business and unlocking the country's economic potential. Mining in Argentina is being recognized by the government as an integral part of its economic development plan, providing jobs and enriching local communities.

Our Company has repaid our investment loan in full, and we believe that the recent market prices of our shares do not properly reflect the underlying value of TNR's assets. Our transformation from a project generation junior mining company into a cashflow-generating royalty company may bring the necessary catalyst for improved market valuation of our assets.

Significant developments on the advancement of the Los Azules project towards the feasibility stage have led to increased Rio Tinto and Stellantis holdings in McEwen Copper, strategic partners of this large copper, gold and silver project. In 2023, Stellantis invested an aggregate ARS $72 billion. An additional US $100 million in total was invested by Rio Tinto's Venture Nuton in McEwen Copper. TNR Gold's vision is aligned with the leaders of innovation among automakers like Stellantis, whose aim is to decarbonize mobility, and mining industry leaders such as Rob McEwen, whose vision is 'to build a mine for the future, based on regenerative principles that can achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2038'.

Together with Nuton, McEwen Copper is exploring new technologies that save energy, water, time and capital, advancing Los Azules towards the goal of leading environmental performance. The involvement of Rio Tinto, with its innovative technology, may also accelerate realizing the potential of the Los Azules project.

The green energy rEVolution relies on the supply of critical metals like copper. Delivering 'green copper' to Argentina and the world will contribute to the clean energy transition and electrification of transportation and energy industries.

The feasibility study confirms Los Azules project as a long-life, low-cost producer of high-purity copper cathodes with strong economic returns and sustainability. It highlights the potential to create a robust leach project while reducing the environmental footprint, and greater environmental and social stewardship sets the project apart from other potential mine developments.

Los Azules was ranked in the top ten largest undeveloped copper deposits in the world by Mining Intelligence (2022). TNR Gold does not have to contribute any capital for the development of the Los Azules Project. The essence of our business model is to have industry leaders like McEwen as operators on the projects that will potentially generate royalty cashflows to contribute significant value for our shareholders."

Batidero I and II NPR Royalty Holding

On April 28, 2022, TNR Gold announced that Lundin Mining Corporation ("Lundin Mining") completed a plan of arrangement pursuant to which Lundin acquired all of the issued and outstanding shares of Josemaria Resources Inc. ("Josemaria Resources") and Josemaria Resources became a subsidiary of Lundin. TNR holds a 7% net profit interest royalty ("NPR") on the Batidero I and II properties of the Josemaria copper-gold project located in San Juan, Argentina that is owned by Josemaria Resources.

On January 15, 2025, Lunding Mining announced the completion of the joint acquisition of Filo Corp. with BHP Investments Canada Inc. ("BHP"). An excerpt from a news release issued by Lundin Mining is below. For additional details, please refer to the Lundin Mining website.

"Concurrently, Lundin Mining and BHP have formed a 50/50 joint arrangement, Vicuna Corp. (the "Joint Arrangement" or "Vicuna"), holding the Filo del Sol project ("FDS") and the Josemaria project. On completion, BHP paid Lundin Mining a cash consideration of US$690 million for a 50% interest in the Josemaria project.

Vicuna will create a long-term strategic alliance between Lundin Mining and BHP to jointly develop an emerging copper district with the potential to support a globally ranked mining complex. The proximity of the FDS and Josemaria projects allows for greater economies of scale and increased optionality for staged expansions, as well as the incorporation of future exploration as the district matures."

On May 4, 2025, Lunding Mining announced that Vicuna Corp. has completed an initial mineral resource estimate for the Filo del Sol sulphide deposit, an update to the mineral resource estimate for the Filo del Sol oxide deposit and an update to the mineral resource estimate for the Josemaria deposit (collectively referred to as the "Vicuna Mineral Resource"). An excerpt from a news release issued by Lundin Mining is below. For additional details, please refer to the Lundin Mining website.

"The Josemaria project, is an advanced stage copper project, located approximately 10 km from Filo del Sol in San Juan Province, Argentina. A feasibility study for the Josemaria project with an effective date of September 28, 2020 was completed in November 2020 (the "2020 Josemaria Feasibility Study") and an Environmental Social Impact Assessment was approved by the Mining Authority of San Juan, Argentina in April 2022. The Josemaria project features favourable topography for the placement of infrastructure for the district, with expansion potential. The Vicuna Mineral Resource estimate and the corresponding Vicuna Technical Report (defined below) supersede the 2020 Josemaria Feasibility Study (including declassifying the Mineral Reserves previously declared therein)."

"A technical report in support of the Vicuna Mineral Resource estimate (the "Vicuna Technical Report") will be filed within 45 days under Lundin Mining's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. The Vicuna Mineral Resource estimate, effective April 15, 2025, and the corresponding Vicuna Technical Report supersede the 2020 Josemaria Feasibility Study (including declassifying the Mineral Reserves previously declared in the 2020 Josemaria Feasibility Study) and the Filo del Sol updated pre-feasibility study dated March 17, 2023 with an effective date of February 28, 2023."

On June 16, 2025, Lundin Mining announced that, further to its news release dated May 4, 2025, regarding the initial Mineral Resource estimate for the Filo del Sol sulphide deposit, an update to the Mineral Resource estimate for the Filo del Sol oxide deposit and an update to the Mineral Resource estimate for the Josemaria deposit (collectively referred to as the "Vicuna Mineral Resource"), it filed a technical report entitled "NI 43-101 Technical Report on the Vicuna Project, Argentina and Chile", with an effective date of April 15, 2025 (the "Technical Report"). Lunding Mining stated that there are no material differences in the Mineral Resource estimates reported in the Technical Report and those contained in the May 4, 2025 news release.

For additional details, please refer to the Lundin Mining website.

TNR's 7% NPR on the Batidero I and II properties of the Josemaria Project held by Lundin Mining and BHP represents future growth potential for the Company's royalty portfolio.

ABOUT TNR GOLD CORP.

TNR Gold Corp. is working to become the green energy metals royalty and gold company.

Our business model provides a unique entry point in the creation of supply chains for critical materials like energy metals that are powering the energy rEVolution, and the gold industry that is providing a hedge for this stage of the economic cycle.

Our portfolio provides a unique combination of assets with exposure to multiple aspects of the mining cycle: the power of blue-sky discovery and important partnerships with industry leaders as operators on the projects that will potentially generate royalty cashflows to contribute significant value for our shareholders.

Over the past twenty-nine years, TNR, through its lead generator business model, has been successful in generating high-quality global exploration projects. With the Company's expertise, resources and industry network, the potential of the Mariana Lithium Project and Los Azules Copper Project in Argentina, among many others, have been recognized.

TNR holds a 1.5% NSR royalty on the Mariana Lithium Project in Argentina, of which 0.15% of such NSR royalty is held on behalf of a shareholder of the Company. Ganfeng Lithium's subsidiary, Litio Minera Argentina ("LMA"), has the right to repurchase 1.0% of the NSR royalty on the Mariana Project, of which 0.9% is the Company's NSR royalty interest. The Company would receive CAN$900,000, and its shareholder would receive CAN$100,000 on the repurchase by LMA, resulting in TNR holding a 0.45% NSR royalty and its shareholder holding a 0.05% NSR royalty.

The Mariana Lithium Project is 100% owned by Ganfeng Lithium. The Mariana Lithium Project has been approved by the Argentina provincial government of Salta for an environmental impact report. Ganfeng officially inaugurated Mariana Lithium's start of production at a 20,000 tons-per-annum lithium chloride plant on February 12, 2025.

TNR Gold also holds a 0.4% NSR royalty on the Los Azules Copper Project, of which 0.04% of the 0.4% NSR royalty is held on behalf of a shareholder of the Company. The Los Azules Copper Project is being developed by McEwen Inc.

TNR also holds a 7% NPR on the Batidero I and II properties of the Josemaria Project that is being developed by the joint-venture between Lundin Mining and BHP.

TNR provides significant exposure to gold through its 90% holding in the Shotgun Gold porphyry project in Alaska. The project is located in Southwestern Alaska near the Donlin Gold project, which is being developed by Barrick Gold and Novagold Resources. The Company's strategy with the Shotgun Gold Project is to attract a joint venture partnership with a major gold mining company. The Company is actively introducing the project to interested parties.

At its core, TNR provides a wide scope of exposure to gold, copper, silver and lithium through its holdings in Alaska (the Shotgun Gold porphyry project) and royalty holdings in Argentina (the Mariana Lithium project, the Los Azules Copper Project and the Batidero I & II properties of the Josemaria Project), and is committed to the continued generation of in-demand projects, while diversifying its markets and building shareholder value.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

Kirill Klip

Executive Chairman

www.tnrgoldcorp.com

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.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

Except for statements of historical fact, this news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward-looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "will", "could" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "could" occur, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Specifically, forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements made in relation to: TNR's corporate objectives and future potential transactions being considered by the Special Committee and the Board, and the benefit that TNR's shareholders may derive from same; TNR's future receipt of cash flows from its royalty holdings and the subsequent contribution of significant value to its shareholders; the possible growth of TNR's value; timing for its 2026 AGM; future revenue and increased valuations of TNR's royalty holdings caused by potential strategic alliances with major mining companies and investment institutions; the use of potential future cash flows to fund a normal course issuer bid; the potential spin-out of the Shotgun Gold Project; future investment of substantial capital in the development of the Shotgun Gold Project by a potential partner of TNR; the future potential of the Kuskokwim Gold Belt in southwestern Alaska; the possible benefits that may accrue to the Los Azules copper project; the potential acceleration of the Los Azules project's potential due to Rio Tinto's involvement in the project; and the potential benefits caused by delivering 'green copper' to Argentina and the world. Such forward-looking information is based on a number of assumptions and subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to those discussed in the sections entitled "Risks" and "Forward-Looking Statements" in the Company's interim and annual Management's Discussion and Analysis which are available under the Company's SEDAR+ profile on www.sedarplus.ca. While management believes that the assumptions made and reflected in this news release are reasonable, should one or more of the risks, uncertainties or other factors materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking information. In particular, there can be no assurance that: TNR will enter into one or more strategic transactions, partnership or a spin-out, or be able to complete any further royalty acquisitions or sales of royalty interests, or portions thereof; debt or equity financings will be available to TNR; or that TNR will be able to achieve any of its corporate objectives. TNR relies on the confirmation of its ownership for mining claims from the appropriate government agencies when paying rental payments for such mining claims requested by these agencies. There could be a risk in the future of the changing internal policies of such government agencies or risk related to the third parties, in future, challenging the ownership of such mining claims. Given these uncertainties, readers are cautioned that forward-looking statements included herein are not guarantees of future performance, and such forward-looking statements should not be unduly relied on.

In formulating the forward-looking statements contained herein, management has assumed that business and economic conditions affecting TNR, and its royalty partners, McEwen Inc., Ganfeng Lithium and Lundin Mining will continue substantially in the ordinary course, including without limitation with respect to general industry conditions, general levels of economic activity and regulations. These assumptions, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect.

Forward-looking information herein and all subsequent written and oral forward-looking information are based on estimates and opinions of management on the dates they are made and are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. Except as required by law, the Company assumes no obligation to update forward-looking information should circumstances or management's estimates or opinions change.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/276309

SOURCE: TNR Gold Corp.
Dharmendra had an experience of over six decades in front of the camera. The moment the name appears or arrives or is even heard, we think of a solid man, the son of the soil

There are stars who belong to their time, and then there are those rare figures who gently bend time around themselves, shaping how an entire nation imagines strength, yearning, and the ineffable magic of the cinema. Dharmendras life and career are not just the story of a beloved actorthey form a chronicle of how India negotiated masculinity, grace, and heroism across six tumultuous decades, and how one man consistently stayed ahead of a culture that often did not know what to do with him.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

To honour the legacy of the most handsome actor of Hindi cinema, the Deol family organized a prayer meet that was attended by Salman Khan, Aishwarya Rai & many other members of the fraternity. Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol got emotional greeting the guests who came to pay their last respects.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Dharmendra had an experience of over six decades in front of the camera. The moment the name appears or arrives or is even heard, we think of a solid man, the son of the soil, a man with fists of iron and heart of gold. And someone with a tough exterior.

But given the actor and his relentless spirit to contribute to Hindi cinema, he was the most vulnerable of the artists who blew the celluloid with his spectacularly vociferous and versatile performances. Dharmendra was more than just An Action Hero.

The rise and rise of Dharmendra

The actor made his debut with the film Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere. And for that, he was paid Rs 51 only. As years passed by, the He-Man of Hindi cinema went on to become one of the most blazing and bankable stars in the country and gradually ended up creating an empire worth Rs 450 crore as per reports.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
Though Aamir did not share the screen space, he and Dharmendra worked in the 1973 film Yaadon ki Baarat. Aamir said Dharmendra was one of the finest actors in the industry

Dharmendra was an institution and a great actor who was underrated despite his mastery over different genres be it action, romance or comedy, Aamir Khan said on Thursday, remembering the star he grew up admiring from a close distance. Dharmendra died on Monday at the age of 89. His family held a prayer meet in Mumbai on Thursday, which Aamir had to miss as he had a session at the ongoing International Film Festival of India here.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Well, Ive grown up watching him. He was known as the action hero and the He-man. And of course, he was extremely good in portraying these strong characters in action films. But I dont know whether people have really noticed, I think hes underrated, Aamir said during a session at IFFI.

Though Aamir Khan did not share the screen space, he and Dharmendra worked in the 1973 film Yaadon ki Baarat. Aamir said Dharmendra was one of the finest actors in the industry.

His performances in romance or different genres are so great. Hes done so well in comedy. My God, hes done amazing comedy, romance, and dramas. According to me, Dharamji was right up there And what a handsome person. Today, in fact, I was not there in Bombay, but it was his prayer meeting. Unfortunately, Im missing it, Aamir added.

Aamir, who has produced Sunny Deol-starrer Lahore 1947, is happy that he had the chance to show the yet-unreleased movie to Dharmendra. In fact, Lahore, the film weve made with Sunny. I had the good fortune of showing him the film, so hes seen the film. Its not released yet, of course, but I was so glad, because this was one of his favorite scripts. so Im so glad he got to see the film. The Lagaan star, who was speaking at the session titled The Narrative Architect of Social Transformation", said he must have met Dharmendra multiple times because he enjoyed the veteran stars company. Aamir said he even took his youngest child, son Azad, to meet the actor.

Dharamji was not only a fine actor, but he was a great human being. He was so gentle. He was like a gentle giant, and he was very loving no matter who he would meet He was a great actor, and its a great loss for all of us. Hes really an institution. Recalling Dharmendras mastery in films such as Satyakam and Chupke Chupke, Aamir said the country had lost an amazing talent and people can learn a lot by just watching the late actors movies.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

He had such a command over his language. Unki zubaan itni saaf thi It was so soft that it was amazing to hear him, even in live events when he would speak I remember, I was there at the book launch for Yusuf Saab (Dilip Kumar), and there he spoke. He spoke with such dignity. Really, its a big loss for all of us. Im fortunate I got to spend some time with him.
Director: Vibhu Puri

Language: Hindi

Cast: Naseeruddin Shah, Vijay Varma, Fatima Sana Shaikh & Sharib Hashmi

Gustaakh Ishq_s_ dialogues, stolen glances, shayris and the nostalgic essence will make you realise, mohabbat abb bhi waisi hai, bass andaaz badal gaya hai. When you have a movie produced by ace fashion designer, Manish Malhotra, you are prepared to immerse yourself in aesthetics and finer details of old-world charm. The language of love is very different in this film. Looks like finally Bollywood has a film to be proud of.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Manish Malhotras _Gustaakh Ishq_ celebrates shayris and romance in the best possible way. The best thing about the film is that it is such a treat to the eyes, the costumes and the ambience has a silent charm and there is nothing flashy about it.

Gustaakh Ishq is a slow burn and is a reminder for all of us to slow down with life. The movie will take you back to that phase of life where people still believe in the smell of books and the printing press is still a high point of their life and not mobile phones and video shots.

A still from Gustaakh Ishq

Watching the film at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) made me feel nostalgic about an era that was so simple and timeless. Set in the 1990s (before the age of mobile phones), it is a heartwarming tale of love, art, and self-discovery set against the backdrop of old Delhi and Malerkotla, Punjab.

The story revolves around a man played by Vijay Varma who is drawn to the magic of shayari (poetry) and seeks to learn the art from an Urdu poet, only to fall in love with the poets daughter (Fatima Sana Shaikh).

Nawabbuddin (Vijay Varma) plays the role of a young publisher who wants to save the printing press of his father though the family is drowned in debt. He travels from his home in Delhi to a small town in Punjab to meet and learn from a learned poet, Aziz played by master craftsman Naseeruddin Shah. He falls in love with his daughter, Minni (Fatima Sana Shaikh). The movie literally romanticizes old Delhi and its rich culture.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Gustaakh Ishq

The character played by Vijay Varma is shown to be a person who has been a failure throughout his life and the world thinks him to be an emotional fool. But there are times when emotional fools can be right too.

Though Gustaakh Ishq has a slow pace, there is not a moment that you will lose interest. Those who have been the 90s kids can totally relate to that phase of life. It is a period when mobile phones, WhatsApp chats and social media didnt invade our life. We didnt have the cordless phones, but the ones with dials. Those were the days of love letters, photo albums and real romances.

In todays time, love stories often come wrapped in reels, digital-age slang and quick edits, but Gustaakh Ishq simply slows down by taking a poetic route and will make you believe in the essence of love which isnt overpowering, but subtle.

Gustaakh Ishq bridges the gap between nostalgia and the present, making the right maiden production for Manish Malhotra. The chemistry between the leads feels effortless, more felt than performed. With Vishal Bhardwajs enchanting musical score and Gulzars deep lyrics, it looks like films like this will soon find a voice again.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Filled with soulful shayari, dont miss watching Vijay Varma- Fatima Sana Shaikhs Gustaakh Ishq, for it will rekindle your love for classics.

Rating: 4 out of 5

WATCH the trailer of Gustaakh Ishq here:
Meanwhile, Humans in the Loop, a feature film with Kiran Rao as executive producer, delves into the fascinating intersection of artificial intelligence and indigenous wisdom

The All Living Things Environmental Film Festival (ALT EFF), Indias premier platform celebrating cinema with a conscience, will showcase two remarkable films this year, Humans in the Loop, executive produced by Kiran Rao, and Panha, a Marathi short film produced by One India Stories, with Dia Mirza as a key figure in the project.

Panha tells a deeply emotional story of a young boy from a Maharashtrian village whose familys mango farm faces destruction due to the construction of a bullet train. The short film delicately portrays the tension between development and tradition, exploring themes of displacement, loss, and the unyielding spirit of rural communities.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Meanwhile, Humans in the Loop, a feature film with Kiran Rao as executive producer, delves into the fascinating intersection of artificial intelligence and indigenous wisdom. Through the journey of an Adivasi woman who works as an AI data labeler, the film poses crucial questions about the human cost of technological advancement and the relevance of traditional knowledge in a rapidly digitalizing world.

Anaka, Programming Director and Co-founder of ALT EFF, shared her excitement about featuring these two powerful narrativesAt ALT EFF, we believe in showcasing stories that challenge, inspire, and provoke thought about the way we coexist with our environment. Both Panha and Humans in the Loop reflect the diversity of Indias storytelling  one rooted in the soil of our villages, the other in the digital landscapes of the future, yet both carry the same urgent message of balance and empathy.

Actor, producer, and environmental advocate Dia Mirza, who has long championed sustainability and conservation, spoke about Panhas inclusion Panha is a story very close to my heart because it reflects what so many communities across India are experiencing, the delicate struggle between progress and preservation. Im so grateful that ALT EFF is giving this story a platform to reach audiences who care about the world we are shaping for the next generation.

Filmmaker Kiran Rao, known for her socially conscious and innovative storytelling, expressed her thoughts on Humans in the Loop This film speaks to the times we live in, where human intuition and indigenous wisdom are often overlooked in our race toward automation. Its a reminder that technology should serve humanity, not the other way around. Im thrilled that ALT EFF, a festival that deeply values such conversations, is showcasing Humans in the Loop this year.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The All Living Things Environmental Film Festival continues to champion films that spark dialogue on sustainability, biodiversity, and the planets future, bringing together filmmakers, activists, and audiences who share a passion for positive change.
Adding to the excitement in India, Shraddha Kapoor steps into the role of Judys Hindi voice, marking her entry into one of Disneys most successful global franchises

Disneys most acclaimed and globally celebrated film returns to theatres today, reclaiming its position as one of the studios best films ever made. With its signature blend of heartfelt emotion, razor-sharp humour and world-class storytelling, Zootopia is being hailed once again as a masterclass in animated filmmaking.

The new sequel has debuted with an outstanding 93% Rotten Tomatoes rating, and 95% Popcorn meter, with critics calling it Disney at its finest, a sensational return, and a visually spellbinding achievement. Early reactions from audiences across the globe highlight the films emotional depth, stunning scale and universal appeal, thus, driving exceptional word of mouth worldwide.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Adding to the excitement in India, Shraddha Kapoor steps into the role of Judys Hindi voice, marking her entry into one of Disneys most successful global franchises. Sharing her connection to the story, she said, Everybody needs a Nick in their life who supports them till the end. For me, my mother, father, and brother are like Nick. Reflecting on the films heart and message, she added, The film is full of heart, and it carries a message that will resonate with people of all ages. I would urge everyone to go and watch it with their families. Its a must-watch for all ages. Im going to see it with my entire family and you should all go with yours too.

Backed by massive global buzz industry trends suggest Zootopia is on track to shatter major box-office records and potentially deliver one of the biggest animated openings in recent years. The unprecedented demand and packed advance bookings reinforce the films reputation as a global crowd-puller.

With breathtaking animation that paints Zootopia in richer, more vibrant detail than ever before, the film elevates the theatrical experience to new heights. Beloved heroes Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde return with an all-new, emotionally charged and irresistibly entertaining adventure as they hunt for a pit viper.

With exceptional reviews, extraordinary global momentum and its reputation as one of Disneys greatest films, Zootopia 2 stands poised to be the cinematic event families, fans and moviegoers cannot afford to miss.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Zootopia 2 releases in theatres today in English, Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu.
Delhi Police have arrested Bandhu Maan Singh Sekhon, alleged to be a key link between India and Canada-based gang networks, for coordinating logistics behind three shooting attacks on Kapil Sharmas Kaps Cafe in Surrey. Investigators say he managed weapons, vehicles and communication for the shooters

Bandhu Maan Singh is a prominent criminal of the Goldy Dhillon gang and has several criminal cases registered against him. Image/ANI via Delhi Police

The Delhi Police Crime Branch has arrested Bandhu Maan Singh Sekhon, a figure with alleged ties to organised crime networks spanning India and Canada, in connection with the series of gunfire attacks on comedian Kapil Sharmas Kaps Cafe in Surrey, British Columbia.

Investigators accuse him of overseeing logistics, providing weapons, and coordinating movements linked to the shooters who repeatedly targeted the establishment earlier this year.

His arrest follows months of international coordination between agencies examining patterns of cross-border criminal activity involving the Goldy Dhillon gang, a syndicate long associated with extortion, targeted violence, and arms trafficking.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Inside the cross-continental manhunt for Sekhon

The breakthrough came when Canadian investigators managed to trace a vehicle connected to one of the firing incidents.

Around the same time, Sekhon reportedly left Canada and entered India during August, coinciding with the investigation in Surrey.

Shortly after, Delhi Police took down an arms-smuggling network whose members disclosed, during interrogation, that they had delivered weapons to Sekhon in Ludhiana.

These statements provided the Crime Branch with the first concrete indication that he was operating from within India and played a larger role than previously understood.

Intelligence units began surveillance operations in Punjab with the aim of locating him.

After tracking his movements for days, police conducted a late-night raid in Ludhiana on November 25, where they apprehended Sekhon and recovered a PX-3 semi-automatic pistol of Chinese make and eight cartridges from his vehicle.

The Delhi Police Crime Branch has arrested Bandhu Man Singh, a gangster, in connection with the conspiracy to fire at Kapil Sharma's restaurant in Canada. He is a prominent criminal of the Goldy Dhillon gang and has several criminal cases registered against him. A Chinese pistol pic.twitter.com/6idFvdyp5r  ANI (@ANI) November 28, 2025

Authorities from the Crime Branch described him as someone deeply embedded in the logistical structure of the gang.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

What we know about Sekhon

Delhi Police officials revealed that Sekhons association with organised crime began after his move to Canada several years ago.

According to Joint CP Crime Branch Surender Kumar, Sekhon initially went abroad on a work visa, taking up jobs in different establishments before coming into contact with extremist circles.

As Kumar explained, He went to jail in some cases and developed links with extremists there. After that, he began working with them.

His criminal footprint reportedly expanded during his stay in the country, with multiple cases registered against him for firearms-related offences and extortion-linked activities.

DCP Crime Branch Sanjeev Kumar Yadav confirmed that investigators had encountered his name earlier in an arms-trafficking case, stating, After apprehending him, we learned that he is a Canada-based gangster involved in several firing and extortion cases there and was even arrested in Canada.

Beyond official criminal charges, an online video circulating on social media shows Sekhon firing multiple rounds from what appears to be a shotgun in a snowy region believed to be in Canada.

In the clip, he is seen wearing a biker jacket and spectacles as he discharges the weapon while recording himself.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Police also disclosed that before joining the Dhillon network, he briefly had associations with the Harry Chatha gang, an outfit whose leader  currently linked with Pakistans ISI  is accused of threatening and extorting members of the South Asian diaspora in North America.

This indicates that Sekhons entry into organised crime may have preceded his involvement with the Dhillon faction and was shaped over years of exposure to criminal elements abroad.

How Sekhon became a key link in the Goldy Dhillon gangs India-Canada ops

Investigators have stated that Sekhon became a trusted figure within the Goldy Dhillon gang, eventually taking on responsibilities that required coordination across borders.

He allegedly arranged vehicles, facilitated weapons transfers, and acted as an intermediary for overseas operatives.

He is also suspected of trying to revive sections of the gangs network in India after returning from Canada. Police believe he was responsible for arranging sophisticated firearms, with officers citing earlier seizures in Delhi that included imported pistols such as the PX-5.7 and PX-3 models.

During questioning, arrested gang members Mandeep Singh and Dalvinder Kumar reportedly mentioned that one of the seized pistols had been delivered to Sekhon. These statements provided investigators with additional confirmation of his involvement in illegal arms procurement.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Authorities also noted that after the Surrey Police increased their crackdown in Canada late this summer, making arrests among the attackers local associates, Sekhon abruptly left Canada on August 23.

This departure coincided with the timeline of the second attack on the cafe and occurred shortly before he resurfaced in India. His movement suggested to investigators that he may have been aware of impending arrests abroad, prompting him to flee the country.

Officials now believe that Sekhon acted as a crucial logistics coordinator for shooters in Canada, including individuals identified by Canadian authorities as Daljot Rehal and Gurjot, who were allegedly working under the direction of Dhillons close aide Seepu.

Police say the shooters operated under detailed instructions from overseas gang leaders, and Sekhon was the point of contact responsible for connecting operations in both countries.

How the three shootings at Kaps Cafe unfolded

Kapil Sharmas cafe in Surrey, known as Kaps Cafe, has been subjected to repeated targeted firing incidents. The attacks occurred on:

July 10

August 7

October 16

Each incident involved unidentified individuals opening fire at the premises, either from a vehicle in motion or from the roadside.

While no injuries were recorded, all incidents resulted in property damage and raised security concerns.

Responsibility claims for the attacks have come from multiple individuals within overlapping criminal networks.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

After the October shooting, a man identified as Kulvir Sidhu, reportedly with links to the Lawrence Bishnoi group, released a video claiming involvement.

In the clip, he said, Todays firing at Caps Cafe, Surrey was carried out by me, Kulvir Sidhu, Goldy Dhillon Bollywood individuals who speak against our religion should also be prepared, bullet can come from anywhere.

Earlier, Khalistani-affiliated figure Harjit Singh Laddi had claimed responsibility for the July incident, citing dissatisfaction with alleged remarks on Sharmas television programme.

Gangster Goldy Dhillon himself also claimed involvement in the attack at a later stage.

Kapil Sharma, addressing the matter during a press conference on November 26, expressed frustration at the repeated shootings and the inability of local authorities to prevent them.

He stated, There were three firing incidentsand I think maybe the police there dont have enough power to control such things. But when our case happened, it was taken up at the deferral leveldiscussed in the Canadian Parliament.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The string of attacks has prompted deeper inquiries into whether prominent Indian entertainers abroad are being increasingly targeted by foreign-based gangs as part of their extortion strategies.

Officials have also indicated that the case has opened avenues for inquiries into possible funding channels, additional associates, and operations involving other regions targeted by the gang.

With inputs from agencies
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be visiting Karnatakas Udupi to hold a roadshow, following which he will head to Goa to unveil a 77-feet bronze statue of Lord Ram. Meanwhile, the International Criminal Court will deliver its ruling on former Philippines President Rodrigo Dutertes appeal for interim release. A general strike has been called in Italy

It is set to be a busy Friday with several events lined up for the day.

Firstly, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be holding a roadshow in Karnatakas Udupi. Meanwhile, the International Criminal Court will deliver its ruling on former Philippines President Rodrigo Dutertes appeal for interim release.

Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem is likely to deliver a televised address today. Meanwhile, a general strike is planned in Italy over the government budget proposal.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Here is all that is likely to take place throughout the day.

PM Modi to visit Udupi, inaugurate statue in Goa

Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to arrive in Udupi in the morning. As per his itinerary, the Prime Minister will hold a roadshow in Udupi on November 28. According to BJP district president Kutyaru Naveen Shetty, the roadshow is set to begin at 11.40 am from Narayanaguru Circle in Bannanje and proceed up to Kalsanka Junction.

After the roadshow, PM Modi is scheduled to visit the historic Sri Krishna Math around noon, where he will participate in rituals and address the public. Cultural events representing coastal Karnataka traditions, such as Yakshagana, tiger dance troupes, and Krishna-themed performers, will take place along the route.

Following the programme in the city, he will return to Mangaluru Airport and then travel to Goa. In the South Goa district, he will unveil a 77-feet-tall bronze statue of Lord Ram at Shree Samsthan Gokarn Jeevottam Mutt on Friday.

ICC to rule on appeal for release of Philippines ex-president Duterte

The International Criminal Court (ICC) Appeals Chamber will deliver its ruling on former Philippines President Rodrigo Dutertes appeal for interim release on Friday.

The judgment will determine whether Duterte remains in custody at the ICC Detention Centre while awaiting trial for crimes against humanity, or if he will be granted temporary release under specific conditions.

The ICC Appeals Chamber will deliver their official ruling on the appeal filed by former Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte. File image/AP

Duterte was arrested in March 2025 and is facing charges of crimes against humanity, including murder, linked to his war on drugs campaign during his time as mayor of Davao City and president.

Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem likely to deliver a televised address

Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem is likely to deliver a televised address on Friday. Qassem often makes public statements, often via pre-recorded televised addresses from an undisclosed location, in response to developing events or on significant dates.

Although the address is yet to be confirmed, chances are he will take a firm stance to not lay down its weapons, which it considers essential for Lebanons defence against Israel. He likely to accuse Israel of violating the November 2024 ceasefire agreement and engaging in genocidal war.

General strike in Italy over government budget proposal

A nationwide general strike has been called by the USB and CUB trade unions in protest over the 2026 budget bill. They are also demanding greater investment in the public sector, contract renewal and wage increase. The strike is expected to affect public transport, schools, healthcare, air travel and public administration.

The USB has issued a clear ultimatum to the government. They are calling for massive disruptive action to block everything, specifically targeting the war budget. Their primary message is about a necessary trade-off, which urges the government to invest in people, not arms. They further demand that the retirement age be dropped to 62, a minimum starting wage of at least 2,000 on national contracts, and that spending be directed into social housing and healthcare instead of new weapons.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

With inputs from agencies
Amid growing threats from Russia, France has introduced a new voluntary military service starting next summer. This has thrown a spotlight on Europes varied military service models

France's President Emmanuel Macron (centre) delivers his speech to unveil a new national military service at the military base in Varces, French Alps. AFP

The growing threat from Russia and the risk of renewed conflict in Europe have thrown a spotlight on the continents varied military service models.

Some countries never scrapped conscription, while others have moved to reintroduce voluntary schemes, such as France on Thursday.

Here is an overview of military service in Europe:

Who has kept it?

In Denmark, the government last year extended military service from four to 11 months and, since July 1, has made it compulsory for women as well. Young Danes are selected at random, according to the armed forces needs.

Conscripts in Finland serve between six, nine, or 12 months, depending on their speciality and rank. They are then placed in the reserves, where they can be called back to active duty, until the age of 50 or 60  a limit the government is considering raising to 65. Military service is voluntary for women.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

In 2013, Norway made its 12 months of military service obligatory for women as well, citing gender equality. Around 15 per cent of each age group is selected, based on qualifications, motivations, and other criteria.

Estonia requires eight to 11 months of military service for men, carried out on a regional basis so they can later serve in the same units as reservists. Service remains voluntary for women.

For Greek men aged over 18, conscription is compulsory for nine to 12 months. In March, the government opened the door for women to perform military service on a voluntary basis.

Cyprus mandates 14 months of military service for men, and in April, it passed a law allowing women to volunteer.

Romanian soldiers of the European Union Force (EUFOR) Althea mission stand guard at Camp Butmir in Sarajevo. File image/AFP

Austria and Switzerland  both neutral countries  have compulsory service for men, lasting six and nine months respectively, and voluntary service for women.

Who has reinstated it?

Lithuania was the first country to reinstate compulsory conscription for men in 2015, after suspending it in 2008. Selection is made by lottery for a nine-month service period, which remains voluntary for women. After completing their service, conscripts are placed in the reserves for 10 years  a period that will be extended to 15 years in 2026.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Sweden reintroduced conscription in 2017 after a seven-year suspension, making nine to 15 months of service compulsory for men and women, depending on speciality. In practice, only a few thousand are called up, depending on the armed forces needs. In a crisis, all young Swedes are required to perform civilian service to contribute to the countrys total defence.

In 2023, Latvia reinstated 11 months of compulsory service for men  voluntary for women  after abolishing it in 2006. Young Latvians can opt for a five-year commitment to the national guard, which involves annual training periods.

At the end of October, Croatia voted to reintroduce compulsory service for men next year, after suspending it in 2008 shortly before joining the NATO military alliance.

Who is looking to make it voluntary?

France on Thursday announced it will introduce a 10-month voluntary military service from next summer, mainly for 18- and 19-year-olds, after suspending mandatory conscription in 1997. The programme will be rolled out gradually, with a target of 3,000 volunteers in the first year and 10,000 by 2030.

Belgium abolished mandatory service in 1994, followed by the Netherlands in 1997, Spain in 2001, the Czech Republic and Hungary in 2004, Italy in 2005, Romania in 2006, and Bulgaria in 2007.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Some of those countries have moved to reintroduce voluntary military service, including the Netherlands in 2023 and Bulgaria in 2020.

In 2026, Belgium is to introduce a 12-month voluntary military service for men and women, aiming to reach 1,000 volunteers by 2028.

Italian Army troops take part in the Nato military exercise at the Novo Selo military ground, northwestern Bulgaria. File image/AFP

Romania is also to launch a four-month voluntary service open to both men and women next year.

Poland suspended conscription in 2009 but introduced a one-month voluntary basic military training course, followed by an optional 11-month specialist programme.

In Germany, which scrapped conscription in 2011, the ruling coalition has agreed plans for a voluntary military service aimed at recruiting around 20,000 volunteers by 2026. Lawmakers are due to vote on the bill in December.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmers government has shelved plans by his predecessor to reinstate conscription, which ended in 1960.
November 28 marks the 82nd anniversary of the Tehran conference, where the Allied Big Three Franklin D Roosevelt, Joseph Stalin and Winston Churchill met secretly in Tehran. Its also on this day that Nancy Astor became the first woman ever to sit in the UK House of Commons after winning a by-election in 1919 with a substantial majority

Eighty-two years ago, on November 28, 1943, the Tehran Conference began, marking the first meeting between US President Franklin D Roosevelt, Soviet leader Joseph Stalin and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill.

Prior to this, the World War IIs Big Three had communicated via telegrams and emissaries. The meeting was codenamed Eureka.

In this edition of Firstposts ongoing series of History Today, we recall the big Tehran Conference and more.

The Tehran Conference

The Big Three had good reasons to be optimistic in a way that the war was progressing against the Axis powers led by Germany, Italy and Japan. And direct negotiations were necessary to coordinate the Allies military strategy.

A secret conference was therefore arranged to take place in Tehran, Iran, with the key objectives to discuss the opening of a second front in Western Europe.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

In 1943, Stalin, FDR and Churchill met at Tehran to discuss war strategy. Image courtesy: @MilHistNow/X/

Stalin was urging for this as the Soviet Union had been bearing the brunt of the land war against Germany on the Eastern Front. He consequently sought an invasion of Western Europe by the British and American forces to divert German troops away from the USSR.

President Roosevelt and Prime Minister Churchill confirmed their commitment to launch Operation Overlord, after discussions, which was the invasion of Nazi-occupied France through Normandy. It was scheduled for May 1944.

The Tehran Conference also addressed the military plans and post-war world order. Ultimately, Stalin, Roosevelt and Churchill discussed possible scenarios to thwart the recurrence of German aggression in Europe as well as the future boundaries of Poland.

The conference also confirmed the Soviet Unions commitment to join the Allied fight against Japan, once Germany was defeated.

Additionally, Roosevelt and Churchill agreed to grant some territory in return as well as influence in Eastern Europe.

Nancy Astor: First woman to sit in the House of Commons

On this day, Nancy Astor became the first woman to take her seat in the House of Commons as an MP.

American by birth, Astors entry into politics also came largely by chance. Her husband, Waldorf Astor, had been the MP for Plymouth Sutton; however, he had moved to the House of Lords after inheriting a peerage following the death of his father.

It was then that Astor took his seat as she stood to replace him in the constituency of Plymouth in the 1919 by-election.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Astor made an effort to ally with other female MPs, especially in the 1920s, and to champion what she considered key womens issues, focusing on poverty and the provision of nurseries.

Nancy Astor in 1919. Image Courtesy: @theboxplymouth/X

She also campaigned against the sale of Alcohol, playing a leading role in raising the drinking age from 14 to 18.

She was known for taking an individual approach to politics, stating, If you want a party hack, dont elect me.

As a pioneering figure in the history of womens representation, Astor was certainly a trailblazing figure for womens participation at the highest level of British politics.

She sat in the House of Commons until her retirement in 1945.

With inputs from agencies
Was the fire at Hong Kongs Wang Fuk Court complex the result of safety regulations being ignored? Were the complaints of residents over the renovation plans of the buildings ignored? Several questions are now being asked after a giant inferno broke out at the apartment complex, claiming the lives of 128 people, with many more still missing

Birds fly over the burned buildings at the fire scene at Wang Fuk Court, a residential estate in the Tai Po district of Hong Kong's New Territories. AP

As the inferno that engulfed the Wang Fuk residential compound in Hong Kong has finally been put out almost two days after it first began, anger is swelling among the locals of the financial hub, with many calling the blaze a man-made disaster.

The toll from the blaze has risen to 128 from the previous count of 55 on Thursday (November 27), with many others being injured, including 11 firefighters. Officials have said that 25 calls for help still remain unresolved.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

After the Hong Kong blaze, three people in charge of renovation works in the complex have been arrested for manslaughter, and authorities have launched a corruption inquiry.

The fire  the worst in Hong Kong in 70 years  have led residents asking many questions about security lapses. It has also tapped into the social anxiety around affordable housing, where sky-high property prices mean that many people live in tightly packed high-rise apartments that can become death traps when disaster strikes.

A blaze that spread too quickly

On Wednesday, firefighters received a call about a blaze shortly before 3 pm local time. As per Hong Kong Fire Services Derek Armstrong Chan, the fire first broke out at Wang Cheong House, a 32-story residential building and one of the eight tower blocks that make up the Wang Fuk Court complex in Hong Kongs Tai Po neighbourhood, which was undergoing renovations.

By the time, authorities reached the scene the bamboo scaffolding and the netting placed around the buildings were on fire. Firefighters began tackling that blaze, but it quickly spread from building to building, turning a single tower block fire into multiple simultaneous multi-storey infernos.

Firefighters work to extinguish a fire which broke out Wednesday at Wang Fuk Court, a residential estate in the Tai Po district of Hong Kongs New Territories. AP

The blaze engulfed at least seven of the eight buildings. By the early hours of Thursday morning local time, fires were extinguished in three buildings, with four still showing scattered traces of fire, according to the citys leader, Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee. And on Friday (November 28), the Hong Kong government said firefighting at Wang Fuk Court had ended.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Authorities are still trying to ascertain just how many people remain trapped in the burning buildings whereas the death toll as of now has been pegged at 128.

Hong Kong fire fuels scrutiny of safety lapses

After the fire, many are asking one question  What caused the blaze? Were there security lapses?

Many have focused their attention on the bamboo scaffolding that was placed around the high-rises at Wang Fuk Court. Interestingly, such scaffolding is an iconic sight across Hong Kong, and widely used in construction.

Earlier this year, authorities announced plans to phase out bamboo in favour of sturdier, fire-resistant steel, citing bamboos combustibility and deterioration over time.

People with missing family members react after checking photographs of the deceased at the fire scene at Wang Fuk Court, a residential estate in the Tai Po district of Hong Kongs New Territories. AP

However, many Hongkongers are questioning the focus being put on the bamboo scaffolding, with many even pointing out that much of it was still standing after the blaze. In fact, many have said that by blaming the bamboo scaffolding, the authorities are trying to deflect responsibility from the actual cause of the fire, which is still unknown.

After the fire, many are pointing to the fact that several residents at Wang Fuk Court had expressed unease about renovation plans when they were announced last year. Moreover, they had made complaints in the past about the construction netting material. Several old Facebook posts have emerged in which residents shared what they said were complaints filed with the Labour Department about possible fire hazards.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

One construction expert in Hong Kong, who spoke with the ABC, also claimed he had repeatedly warned that the scaffolding mesh appeared to be non-compliant, and failed to meet fire safety standards.

Residents had also made complaints to the construction company about workers smoking at the site and on the bamboo scaffolding.

A woman places flower tributes near the charred buildings of Wang Fuk Court housing complex following a deadly fire in Tai Po, Hong Kong. Reuters

Many even alleged that alarms had been turned off during the renovation works, as construction workers regularly used fire escapes to get in and out of the building. According to Kiko Ma, who owns an apartment at Wang Fuk Court, This was preventable A lot of people did not do their duties, the 33-year-old told the BBC, adding that the renovation firm used poor quality, flammable materials.

Authorities also found polystyrene boards, a highly flammable material, blocking windows of multiple apartments. One resident of Wang Fuk Court said that many of the windows in his building were covered with a thin layer of polystyrene foam. He noted that the material blocked much of the light and prevented residents from seeing outside. It was only because of a small gap in the foam covering his bathroom window that he had been able to see that a neighbouring building was on fire and escape in time, he was quoted as saying by the New York Times.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The fire has also prompted questions whether the disaster was the result of corruption and a lack of accountability. This comes as residents raised questions about perceived collusion between housing committees that oversee maintenance and renovations of such estates and contractors.

Challenges for firefighters dousing the flames

Many Hongkongers also questioned why it has taken authorities over a day to douse the flames that erupted in the buildings, engulfing residents in a fireball.

Emergency workers record details of a body recovered from the fire-ravaged Wang Fuk Court housing complex, in Tai Po, Hong Kong. Reuters

However, authorities noted that the excessive heat and the raging flames posed huge challenges for the firefighters, slowing down their progress. Officials added that given the dry weather and the high temperatures emanating from the buildings, it was difficult for fire engines to park very close to the blocks that were ablaze.

Some residents also questioned why helicopters and water bombs were not deployed. But, Gary Au Gar-hoe, a spokesman for the fire division of the Hong Kong Institution of Engineers said that water bombs were not effective in putting out fires in buildings. Throwing water bombs  or firefighters spraying water jets  with furniture burning inside, would make it difficult [to bring the blaze under control], he told the South China Morning Post.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

People stand amid donated supplies following the fire that started Wednesday at Wang Fuk Court, a residential estate in the Tai Po district of Hong Kongs New Territories. AP

What comes next after the blaze

As of now, three people from the construction company have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter, citing gross negligence and the use of substandard materials, including flammable nets and foam-boarded windows.

Moreover, the Independent Commission Against Corruption, Hong Kongs statutory anti-graft body, announced that it had set up a dedicated task force to investigate potential corruption linked to the renovations at Wang Fuk Court. And on Friday, the South China Morning Post reported that the body had arrested two directors of Will Power Architects Company  the firm that is the consultant to Wang Fuk Courts renovation project.

Many observers note that the blaze will pile on pressure on Chinese and Hong Kong officials. Its left to be seen how authorities react to the anger.

With inputs from agencies
The speculation over Imran Khans life and health continues with his family members demanding proof of life from jail authorities. Amid the former PMs disappearance, the cricketer-turned-politicians last social media post in which he criticised army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir has resurfaced. We look at the rivalry

The Imran Khan death rumours in Pakistan refuse to die. Despite the Pakistani government and Adiala Jail authorities stating that the former Pakistani prime minister is fit and healthy as he continues to serve his prison sentence, the speculation over his demise continues.

In fact, Imran Khans sisters  Noreen Niazi and Aleema Khanum  have been demanding to meet Khan and have warned of dire consequences if he were to be harmed. Moreover, one of his sons, Kasim Khan, has demanded that authorities produce proof of life on social media. He wrote on X, This absolute blackout is not a security protocol. It is a deliberate attempt to hide his condition and prevent our family from knowing whether he is safe.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Amid this situation, a previous article written by Imran Khan has begun doing the rounds. In a 2024 op-ed for The Telegraph, Khan blamed Pakistans military establishment under its army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, of trying every tactic to decimate his partys presence from Pakistans political environment. He further wrote that Munir would be responsible if anything happened to him and also said he would prefer death over slavery.

The military establishment has done all they could against me. All that is left for them is to now murder me. I have stated publicly that if anything happens to me or my wife, General Asim Munir will be responsible. But I am not afraid because my faith is strong. I would prefer death over slavery, Khan wrote.

As these lines go viral across the internet, we take a closer look at the tussle between these two power players in Pakistan.

Genesis of fight between Imran Khan and Asim Munir

The feud between Imran Khan and Field Marshal Asim Munir dates back to 2019, when the former was the prime minister of Pakistan. At that time, Munir was the head of Pakistans super-powerful spy agency, the Inter-Services Intelligence  a position he was accorded by then Pakistan army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa in 2018.

It was here that Munir fell foul of the then-prime minister, Imran Khan; he removed Munir from his post as ISI chief in 2019, which marked the beginning of a highly acrimonious battle between Khan and the powerful general.

According to many, Khan sacked Munir because the then ISI chief had brought forward alleged proof of corruption against Khans wife, Bushra Bibi. The same was even reported by The Telegraph, a claim that Khan rejects. The article claims that I had made Gen Asim resign as DG ISI because he had shown me my wife Bushra Begums corruption cases. This is completely false. Neither did Gen Asim showed me any proof of my wifes corruption nor did I make him resign because of that, Khan had then tweeted.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

But in 2022, an alleged audio clip of Aleem Khan, a former leader of Khans Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, surfaced in which he accused the former prime minister of sacking Munir for exposing corruption of his wife, Bushra Bibi.

Pakistans former Prime Minister Imran Khan fell out with the Pakistan army, resulting in his ouster from power and subsequent arrest and imprisonment in jail. File image/Reuters

A scorned Munir takes on Imran Khan

While Imran Khan enjoyed the support of the Pakistan army earlier in his tenure as prime minister, he soon fell apart with the military over issues such as mismanagement of the Covid-19 pandemic and corruption, among others.

And when Imran was ousted from power in 2022, many observers noted that it was the Pakistani army that orchestrated Khans downfall. Incidentally, seven months after Khans ouster, General Munir assumed command as army chief.

Many note this is when the tussle between the two intensified. In fact, in May 2023, Imran Khan claimed that top ISI officer Major-General Faisal Naseer was the man responsible for the assassination attempt on his life back in November 2022. Many saw this as Khans attack on Munir, as Naseer was believed to be a close aide of none other than the Pakistan army chief.

In the subsequent days, Khan was arrested by Pakistan Rangers on corruption charges, resulting in massive protests across Pakistan with PTI workers and supporters going on a rampage. When asked about the violence his workers had perpetrated, Khan took direct aim at Munir, saying that the Pakistan army chief was petrified of him.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Imran Khan directly taking on Pakistans Army powerful Chief Asim Munir:



I doubt there is any sense in the Army Chief right now because hes so petrified if I win the elections Ill denotify him hes dismantling the future of this country to protect himself pic.twitter.com/70o5BEpe2H  Secunder Kermani (@SecKermani) May 13, 2023

Imran continues to wage war against Munir from behind bars

Despite being locked up after being convicted on several charges, Imran Khan has used his clout to continue his feud with General Asim Munir. Last September, his supporters carried out a massive rally in Islamabad, demanded Khans release from jail and haqeeqi azadi. Visuals even showed PTI leaders making speeches threatening the government and the military.

And thats not all. Imran has also not minced his words when it comes to his criticism of Munir. Earlier in September, he accused the Pakistan army chief and now field marshal of inflicting oppression on the people to prolong his rule.

Supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khans party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), chant slogans while a placard is displayed as they observe Black Day against what they call recent constitutional amendments, during an anti-government protest in Karachi, Pakistan. File image/Reuters

In November, he upped the ante again, describing Munir as the most oppressive dictator in the countrys history and a mentally unstable man. Asim Munir is the most oppressive dictator in Pakistans history and a mentally unstable man. The extent of tyranny under his rule is unprecedented. Munir, in his lust for power, is capable of doing anything, Khans official handle posted on X on Tuesday (November 4, 2025).

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

He further added, Asim Munir is inflicting every possible form of injustice upon me and my wife. No political leaders family has ever faced such cruelty. I want to make it absolutely clear once again  no matter what he (Munir) does, I will neither bow down nor submit to him.

He even criticised the army chief over his Afghanistan policy, adding that his short-sightedness is destroying the peace in the region. In a post on the ousted PMs social media account, the 72-year-old said that Asim Munir has made things worse in Afghanistan in an attempt to appease the lobby that opposes the Taliban rulers. In an attempt to appease the lobby that opposes the current government in Afghanistan, Asim Munir, in his short-sightedness, is destroying the peace that was established in the region during our tenure. Where there should have been a strong relationship, things are being made worse, Khan said.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Imran Khans disappearance and the rise and rise of Munir

Notably, in the past 24 days, there have been no posts by Imran Khan, and his family has received no word from him from prison. His last post was written on November 5 in which he claimed there is no rule of the Constitution or the law in Pakistan, only the rule of Asim Law.

This message came shortly after Munirs position was elevated in the country following the passage of the 27th constitutional amendment in the parliament. This legislation grants legal immunity to Munir, for the rest of his life, and service chiefs, as well as President Asif Ali Zardari. It also strips the Supreme Court of key constitutional jurisdiction, neutralising what is left of judicial independence in the nation.

Many observers note that Imran Khans disappearance may be Asim Munirs final revenge. Only time will tell what happens next  as of now, the government and the establishment remain tight-lipped, with only the jail authorities confirming that Khan is in good health.

With inputs from agencies
As the rumours about former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan continue to do the rounds, a spotlight has been shone on his family, particularly his sisters and son. Here is what we know about them

While Imrans son and the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party have demanded proof of life, authorities have claimed that he is fully healthy and receiving complete medical attention.

Is Imran Khan still alive?

Rumours of the death of the former Pakistan Prime Minister have been doing the rounds for days. Imrans family has accused the government of keeping him in isolation for weeks. There are also reports that Imran has been beaten.

While Imrans son and the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party have demanded proof of life, authorities have claimed that he is fully healthy and receiving complete medical attention.

But what do we know about Imrans family? Who are his sisters, sons and wife?Lets take a closer look.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Imrans parents

Imran was born on 5 October 1952 to Ikramullah Khan Niazi and Shaukat Khanum in Pakistans Lahore. Ikramullah was a civil engineer from Mianwali who hailed from the Niazi Pashtun clan. A graduate of Imperial College London in 1946, he participated in the Pakistan Movement. Ikramullah later worked for the countrys Public Welfare Department.

Shaukat, a homemaker, hailed from the Burki Pashtun tribe. She was, by all accounts, a soft-spoken woman who commanded much respect and love from her family. Her early death at the age of 63 in February 1985 would inspire Imran towards philanthropy. He would later open a cancer hospital in her name.

Imran said at the time, I saw someone that close to me, for two months, in extreme pain. I think only people who have seen cancer patients can know how they suffer. I think that suffering touched me very deeply. It was like a watershed in my life.

Imrans sisters

Rubina Khanum, the eldest of the siblings, was born in Islamabad. Known to keep a low profile, she is an alumna of the London School of Economics. Rubina is said to have worked with the United Nations in a senior position for many years.

Aleema Khanum is an entrepreneur and philanthropist. She owns several export-based textile businesses as well as high-end fashion ventures. She holds a Bachelors and Masters degree in Business Administration. She has also worked in charitable and educational organisations including as the former Marketing Director of Shaukat Khanum Memorial and Member of the Board of Governors. She is currently a board member of the Imran Khan Foundation and the Namal Education Foundation.

Aleema Khan, front center, and Uzma Khanum,, sisters of Pakistans former Prime Minister Imran Khan. AP

Uzma Khanum was also born in Islamabad. A surgeon by profession, she is known to stay away from the spotlight. However, she is said to have supported Imrans charitable endeavours, particularly in the field of medicine.

Rani Khanum is the youngest of Imrans sisters. A university graduate, she works with many Pakistani charities and stays out of the spotlight.

Imrans first wife Jemima described his sisters as strong educated women with lives of their own.

Imrans wife and ex-wives

Imrans first wife was Jemima Goldsmith, a British heiress and journalist. Jemima was the daughter of British tycoon James Goldsmith, while her mother Lady Annabel Goldsmith hails from an aristocratic family. The two married in Paris in 1995, which the British tabloids hailed as the wedding of the century.

After the marriage, Jemima famously moved to Pakistan and embraced the culture including speaking Urdu and adopting the local customs. However, their marriage ended in 2004 after which Jemima moved back to London with their two children. Imran and Jemima remain on good terms regardless.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Imrans second wife Reham Khan was also a journalist. Reham was born in the 1960s in Libya in an educated, affluent Pakistani-origin family. Her parents decided to move back to Pakistan when she was still a teenager. Reham, at age 19, wed and shifted to the UK.



Journalist, author and former wife of Imran Khan, Reham Khan has officially entered Pakistans political arena with the launch of her own party - the Pakistan Republic Party (PRP). File image/AFPReham, who had three children with her first husband, walked out of the marriage after it turned abusive. Reham, in 2006, began her journalism career and by 2008 she was working for the BBC as a presenter.

Reham and Imran married in January 2015, when Imran was knee-deep in politics. Their turbulent relationship was over just ten short months later. After the relationship had ended, Reham released a controversial tell-all book about her experiences with Imran. Reham and the book made several sensational allegations about Imrans alleged drug use and his sex life, which his supporters dismissed as a smear campaign.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

A faith healer, Bushra Bibi was born Bushra Riaz Watto into a family of landowners. Said to be in her late forties, much of her early life remains a mystery. A Sufi mystic and pirni, Bushra was previously married to Khawar Farid Maneka, a customs officer.

Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan (C) with his wife Bushra Bibi (L) arrive to appear at a high court in Lahore on May 15, 2023. File Photo/AFP

Imran and Bushra wed in a secret ceremony sometime in 2018, which came as a shock to many.

A report had accused Bibi of wielding an outsized influence in the Imran Khan government from 2018 to 2022 and even claimed she practised black magic. Like Imran, Bushra has faced several legal cases and is also currently in jail.

Imrans children

Both of Imrans sons are from his marriage with Jemima.

Sulaiman Isa Khan was born in 1996 in London. The 29-year-old lives with Jemima in the UK. While not much is known about Sulaiman, he is said to be academically inclined. It was Sulaiman who demanded a proof of life from the Pakistan government.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Kasim Khan was born in April 1999. The 26-year-old, who also lives in the United Kingdom, attended the University of Bristol in England, where he studied Islamic History. Much like his sibling, he usually keeps away from politics, though he often visits his father in Pakistan.

Qasim and Sulaiman Khan, the sons of imprisoned former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, said their father was being held on trumped-up charges and appealed Donald Trump to support their fathers release. Image courtesy: Instagram/ khanjemima

Imran is also said to have a daughter  Tyrian Jade Khan. Imran is said to have fathered Tyrian with socialite Sita White, whom he met in 1991. The two reportedly shared a long relationship lasting over half a decade. Imran is said to have been disappointed when he learned Sita was having a girl and reportedly asked her to get an abortion.

However, Sita refused. Tyrian was born on 15 June 1992 at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in New York. Imran was deemed to be the father of Jade by a US judge after he refused to submit a paternity test.

With inputs from agencies
Around 5,800 members of the Bnei Menashe community are heading back to Israel from India. The tribe, which lives in the northeast, will be resettled in Israel by 2030. But who are the Bnei Menashe? What do we know about them?

A newly arrived Jewish immigrant from India holds a child beside Israeli flags after arriving at Ben Gurion international airport near Tel Aviv. File image/Reuters

Around 5,800 members of the Bnei Menashe community are heading back to Israel.

The tribe, which lives in Indias northeast, will be resettled in Israel under the Aliyah (Return to Zion) programme by 2030. This comes after approval from the Israeli government.

Bnei Menashe is an ethnic community that hails from Mizoram and Manipur and claims to be one of the 10 Lost Tribes of Israel. The tribe claims to have been exiled from present-day Israel following the defeat of the Kingdom of Israel in 722 BC by the Romans.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The Israeli government is likely to resettle them in Nof HaGalil in an effort to strengthen the Galilee region, as per The Jerusalem Post. This is set to be the largest and most organised migration effort for the Bnei Menashe thus far.

Lets take a closer look at the Bnei Menashe tribe and how they came to settle in India.
Italy has unveiled the Michelangelo Dome, an advanced multi-domain defence system designed by Italian defence group Leonardo to protect against modern air, missile, drone, cyber and space-based threats. The system aims to enhance Europes security through AI-driven integration and Nato-aligned multi-layer protection

View of the Leonardo logo during the 55th International Paris Airshow at Le Bourget Airport near Paris, France, June 16, 2025. File Image/Reuters

Italy has formally presented an ambitious new defence initiative that aims to create one of Europes most advanced protection systems against modern threats.

The project, known as the Michelangelo Dome, is designed by the Italian defence and aerospace group Leonardo, which has positioned the system as a future backbone of coordinated air, missile, cyber and multi-domain defence for Italy, Europe and Nato.

The unveiling comes at a moment when European nations are racing to reinforce their military postures following Russias invasion of Ukraine and increasingly frequent cyber intrusions.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The Michelangelo Dome is being framed by Italian officials as a transformative development intended to plug critical gaps in Europes defensive architecture.

What we know about Italys Michelangelo Dome

Leonardo introduced the Michelangelo Dome in Rome in the presence of Defence Minister Guido Crosetto and other top officials from the Italian armed forces.

The system represents a major component of Leonardos strategic push over the past several years to specialise in advanced defence technologies such as artificial intelligence, satellite capabilities, drones and cyber tools.

This direction was reinforced when the company established a dedicated space division, strengthened its drone portfolio and invested heavily in digital infrastructure aimed at unifying military platforms.

The project is designed to integrate a wide range of existing and future assets belonging to Italy and potential partner states.

Rather than depending on a fixed piece of hardware, the Dome is structured around a sophisticated software layer capable of blending data from various defence equipment  even if those systems were developed independently or belong to different nations.

Speaking to The Financial Times, one individual familiar with the architecture said this approach was chosen because its based on the Nato standard, where we dont all have the same platforms.

They added that this model will allow for faster and more co-ordinated implementation without focusing on competing aircraft, tanks and missiles.

Leonardo chief executive Roberto Cingolani has repeatedly advocated for tighter international defence collaboration, arguing that unified digital structures are necessary to counter the increasingly complex nature of modern warfare.

Speaking at the companys recent event, he said, Defense must innovate, anticipate, and embrace international cooperation.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

He has also described the Michelangelo Dome as the largest integration programme ever in the defence industry, citing the projects requirement to synchronise information and responses across multiple military layers.

This initiative is seen as essential because contemporary threats are no longer restricted to a single domain.

A modern air defence system must address ballistic trajectories, stealth aircraft, hypersonic glide vehicles, autonomous drones, underwater threats, and even cyberattacks designed to cripple command networks.

According to Leonardos presentation, the Michelangelo Dome is intended to monitor and respond to threats that appear from below sea level all the way into outer space.

How the Michelangelo Dome works

At the core of the Michelangelo Dome is a digital infrastructure that uses predictive artificial intelligence to anticipate incoming attacks and recommend or execute defensive measures.

The system gathers information from a wide array of sensors, radars, satellites, surveillance aircraft, naval systems and ground-based interceptors.

These inputs are processed to create a continuously updated operational picture, helping commanders determine optimal positioning of assets and enabling faster interception decisions.

Leonardo explained that the system is engineered to detect, track, intercept and neutralise a broad set of dangers  including rockets, drones, aircraft, cruise missiles and other airborne weapons  before they can strike intended targets.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The model is conceptually similar to Israels Iron Dome, a system widely cited in Europe for its ability to protect civilian centres and strategic infrastructure from projectile attacks.

Unlike the Iron Dome, however, Italys version is envisioned as part of a much wider, multi-domain structure that extends well beyond traditional air defence and includes cyber protections and naval integration.

The aim is to create a connected framework that facilitates communication between different platforms, regardless of their manufacturer or operating nation.

This level of interoperability is key to ensuring that European states, which rely on an assortment of national procurement programmes and defence suppliers, can coordinate more effectively in emergencies.

Cingolani has said the system is being engineered to respond to different scales of conflict, including scenarios that require integration between civil and military assets.

He emphasised that the system must manage an environment where offensive capabilities are advancing faster than defensive ones, and where the cost of developing effective shields is rising sharply.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The systems AI-driven predictive capabilities are meant to offset this imbalance by reducing reaction times and optimising resource deployment.

According to individuals briefed on the trials, Leonardo has already begun advanced testing of the Domes ability to prevent or limit damage during simulated airspace incursions.

These early phases include exercises in identifying incoming threats, coordinating sensor data and evaluating interception strategies.

The goal is to have the system fully operational by 2030, with partial capabilities available from 2028 onward.

How Italys Michelangelo Dome complements Natos defence push

Italys decision to promote the Michelangelo Dome aligns with a broader European trend toward shared defence solutions.

Three years ago, Germany launched the European Sky Shield Initiative, a cooperative effort encouraging participating nations to jointly procure compatible air defence platforms.

More than 20 European states  from the UK to Finland and the Baltic countries  have since joined the initiative.

Germany has stated that its procurement strategy involves acquiring Iris-T systems for medium-range coverage, Patriot batteries for long-range defence, and Israels Arrow 3 system for exceptionally high-altitude interception.

While Sky Shield was initially criticised by France for favouring systems built outside Europe, it nonetheless accelerated discussions regarding continental defence cooperation and interoperability challenges.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Italy has signalled that the Michelangelo Dome could complement or integrate with these ongoing efforts, particularly since its architecture is designed to plug into varied national technologies.

Crosetto said, Each country can integrate its own technologies.

He also noted that the Michelangelo Dome is intended to address an expansive threat spectrum, Together, we can cooperate to create a highly advanced defense system against all types of threats, from hypersonic missiles to small drones, because threats now come in many different forms.

According to Italian officials, Rome has already initiated conversations with several European counterparts to explore potential cooperation involving the new system.

The government is simultaneously preparing a combined task force of defence experts and Leonardo engineers to tailor the systems architecture to Italys internal requirements.

How Dome-style shields are gaining momentum

In May, US President Donald Trump revealed intentions to construct an American equivalent, labelled the Golden Dome.

This system is supposed to become operational before the conclusion of his second term, though reports have recently indicated that progress has been slowed significantly due to disruptions stemming from the recent government shutdown.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Turkey has simultaneously moved ahead with its own upgrade plans. The countrys Defence Industries Presidency (SSB) disclosed that domestic defence companies had signed contracts valued at $6.5 billion to advance the Steel Dome, a layered defence system designed to strengthen Turkeys broad security environment.

Taiwan also announced a defensive network of its own, described as T-Dome, aimed at fortifying the islands readiness in the face of persistent military pressure from China.

European defence experts note that Italys Dome stands apart because of its explicit focus on multi-domain integration and its heavy reliance on advanced artificial intelligence for decision support.

With inputs from agencies
Mohammed Ibrahim, a Palestinian-American teen, was freed on Thursday (November 27), after spending nine months in an Israeli prison. Israeli soldiers detained him when he was 15 for allegedly throwing stones at Jewish settlers in the West Bank. Ibrahims family says he drastically lost weight and developed scabies while in custody

Mohammed Ibrahim turned 16 this year. He was in an Israeli prison then. The Palestinian-American teenager was released on Thursday (November 27) after spending nine months behind bars.

The teen from Florida was allegedly blindfolded and handcuffed in the middle of the night in February when Israeli forces raided his family home in the West Bank. He was visiting from Florida for a holiday and was arrested for allegedly throwing stones at Jewish settlers.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

He was reportedly held without charge in Ofer prison, a home to adult prisoners, some of whom have been convicted of serious terrorism offences and murder.

Last month, 27 US lawmakers, including senators Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren and Chris Van Hollen, who wrote to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, urged the administration to push Israel to free him. They expressed grave concern over the boys treatment.

So, what do we know about this 16-year-old, his arrest and the treatment in Israeli custody.

The arrest of Mohammed Ibrahim

Ibrahim was 15 when he was arrested from his house in the town of al-Mazraa ash-Sharqiya, near Ramallah, for allegedly throwing stones at Jewish settlers, which he previously denied.

He was blindfolded and handcuffed in the nighttime. According to the court documents reviewed by The Guardian, Ibrahim was charged with counts of throwing objects at moving vehicles.

The case came to light after a 20-year-old American-Palestinian, Sayfollah Musallet, was allegedly beaten to death by Israeli settlers in mid-July. The Guardian learned, while reporting Musallets story, that his younger cousin, Ibrahim, was arrested in February.

US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee called Musallets brutal killing a criminal and terrorist act, demanding that Israel aggressively probe the murder. However, no arrest has been made yet.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Both Ibrahim and Musallet worked together in the family ice cream shop in Tampa, Florida.

During the time in prison, Israeli authorities did not allow Ibrahim to contact his family. He did not have any visitation rights. Only US officials had access to him, and his relatives received all updates through them.

On Thursday, following a guilty plea and suspended sentence, the teenager was released, according to his family.

Earlier this week, Ibrahims father, Zahar Ibrahim, who runs the ice-cream business in Florida, said his son only confessed to throwing stones because the soldiers beat him, reports the BBC.

The life in prison

In an October interview with the Defense for Children International-Palestine (DCIP), the non-profit that promotes childrens rights, Ibrahim shared his ordeal about the mistreatment of minors in Israeli jails. He spoke about the alleged harsh treatments, including thin mattresses, cold cells and meagre meals.

The meals we receive are extremely insufficient, Ibrahim was quoted as saying.

Further adding, For breakfast, we are served just three tiny pieces of bread, along with a mere spoonful of labneh. At lunch, our portion is minimal, consisting of only half a small cup of undercooked, dry rice, a single sausage, and three small pieces of bread. Dinner is not provided, and we receive no fruit whatsoever.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The boy told DCIP how Israeli soldiers beat him with the butts of rifles while transporting him.

The non-profit said after obtaining the testimony from another Palestinian-US teen in prison that Ibrahim has lost a considerable amount of weight since his detention began.

In jail, Ibrahim also contracted a skin infection.

Since then, his family, right groups and US lawmakers have been pleading with the Trump administration for his immediate release.

<span data-ccp-props={" 335559738":240,335559739:240}"="">

Representative Ayanna Pressley of Massachusetts wrote on X on October 19. His [Ibrahims] health is deteriorating. The circumstances are desperate. The United States must use every avenue available to secure the release of this Palestinian American child.

Immense relief, says Ibrahims family

The boys uncle, Zeyad Kadur, said the family was relieved now that Irbahim has been released.

He is finally home. Words cant describe the immense relief we have as a family right now, to have Mohammed in his parents arms, his uncle said in a statement. We couldnt believe Mohammed was free until his parents wrapped their arms around him and felt him safe.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The family have been living a horrific and endless nightmare over the last nine months. Israeli soldiers had no right to take Mohammed from us in the first place, Kadur added.

Ibrahims uncle said that immediately after his release, the teen was taken to a hospital for intravenous therapy and blood work, noting that he is severely underweight, pale and is still suffering from scabies contracted during captivity.

Kadur said after Ibrahims release, the family would continue to fight for justice for his cousin Sayfollah Musallet, who was beaten to death by Israeli settlers during a confrontation in July.

Palestinian children targeted by Israel

According to a 2013 United Nations Childrens Fund (UNICEF) report, Israel is the only country that systematically prosecutes children in military courts.

Israeli military court previously considered Palestinian children to be minors only up to 15 years, the report notes. However, on 27 September 2011, the Israeli military commander in the occupied West Bank issued the military order 1676, which raised the age of majority in the military courts from 16 to 18 years, as cited in the report.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

According to the Israeli human rights organisation, BTselem, between 2005 and 2010, 835 Palestinian minors aged 12 to 17 were tried on stone-throwing charges in military court, and only one was acquitted.

According to the latest data from DCIP, as of September, 350 Palestinian children between the ages of 12 and 17 were being held in Israeli military detention.

Israel has not commented on the release of Ibrahim.

With inputs from agencies
Pakistanis may have to rethink their travel plans to the UAE and Saudi Arabia. The Emirati country has halted issuing regular visas to Pakistanis, citing begging and criminal activities. Earlier, Riyadh too had deported nearly 5,000 from Pakistan for begging

The already dented image of Pakistan has suffered another major blow. This time, the setback comes from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) after it has halted issuing regular visas to Pakistani nationals, citing begging rings, street crime, and visa overstays, the Dawn reported.

The UAE has unofficially halted visa issuance for Pakistani passport holders, except for blue and diplomatic passports, the Interior Secretary Salman Chaudhry told Pakistans Senate Functional Committee on Human Rights.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

He further said that both UAE and Saudi Arabia have stopped short of imposing a complete ban on the Pakistani passport, adding that if the ban is getting imposed, then removing it would be difficult, the newspaper quoted Chaudhry as saying.

So, does this mean the UAE, Saudi Arabia dont want Pakistanis anymore? What do the new visa reforms say? Was a full passport ban on the table?

Reasons for UAE halt on visas to Pakistan

Addressing the matter, Interior Secretary Salman Chaudhry said that both countries, Saudi Arabia and the UAE have stopped issuing visas to Pakistani nationals over criminal activities.

Confirming the same, Pakistani Senator Samina Mumtaz Zehri, chair of the Senate committee on human rights, was quoted by Dawn as saying, These restrictions stem from repeated incidents where Pakistani visitors were found engaged in unlawful activities inside.

According to her, there are growing concerns that Pakistani citizens are entering the UAE and getting involved in criminal activities. She further added that only a handful of visas were been granted recently, and those too after much difficulty.

The move by UAE comes after Saudi Arabia imposed a ban on granting visas to nationals belonging to 30 different Pakistani cities, citing cases where they were caught begging. In fact, earlier this year, Saudi Arabia arrested and deported over 4,700 Pakistani beggars, particularly in Mecca and Madina, the Dawn reported.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

A full passport ban also a possibility

Following UAEs move, authorities in Islamabad have pointed out that the restriction could even escalate into a full ban on passports.

Chaudhary warned that, If a ban is imposed, getting it removed would be difficult.

This new UAE visa reform will affect different categories of visas, including tourist, visit, and work permits for Pakistani nationals.

Additional Interior Secretary Salman Chaudhry stated that the nation is currently issuing visas only to blue and diplomatic passports. For government officials, a blue passport is reserved, while Pakistani travellers are on the green passport.

The UAE Ambassador to Pakistan, Salem M Salem AI Bawab AI Zaabi, briefed Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb on new visa reform measures for Pakistani citizens.

During the briefing, the ambassador highlighted reforms including online applications, e-visas without passport stamping, and faster digital linkages, among others, according to the Finance Ministry.

Several reports suggest that, in December last year, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and several other Gulf countries declared that police verification would now be required for Pakistani travellers.

A look at past criminal activities

Earlier this year, two men from the Indian state of Telangana were killed, and a third was injured in an attack, allegedly by a Pakistani national shouting religious slogans in a Dubai bakery where they worked, as reported by India Today.

Ashtapu Premsagar,35, hailed from Soan village in Nirmal district, was killed with a sword on April 11, his uncle A Poshetty told PTI.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Premsagar had been employed by the bakery for the past five years. He last visited his family two years ago, Poshetty said, according to India Today reports.

Poshetty urged the government to help bring his mortal remains to India.

The authorities in the UAE have repeatedly warned that organised groups from different countries exploit visit visas to engage in unlawful behaviour, and the major portion are related to the arrest of Pakistani nationals, as India Todays report mentioned.

Number of Pakistani nationals applying for Middle East visas

Over 8,00,000 Pakistanis apply for visas to Gulf and Middle Eastern countries each year, eying better opportunities and economic stability, according to the official data.

However, several of them get involved in criminal activities. In 2018, Dubais head of security, Dhahi Khalfa, had in a string of tweets, accused Pakistani citizens of bringing drugs into Gulf countries.

He even went further and advised people in his country to not hire Pakistanis.

With inputs from agencies
Russian President Vladimir Putin has reiterated demands for Ukrainian troop withdrawals from territory claimed by Moscow. He has been pushing for the recognition of territories that Russia has seized, including the annexed southern Crimean peninsula and the eastern Donbas region

Efforts to end the war in Ukraine seem to be overdrive as multiple negotiation tracks are underway but none has yet resolved the fundamental clash between Russias territorial ambitions and Ukraines insistence on sovereignty and long-term security guarantees.

A series of talks involving the United States, Ukraine, Russia, and European governments has brought new proposals and counter-proposals into circulation.

These include a 28-point peace plan that surfaced publicly after it was leaked.

The document, attributed to the mediation efforts of US President Donald Trumps personal friend and envoy Steve Witkoff, immediately triggered alarm among Ukrainian and European policymakers who believed it tilted toward Russias long-standing objectives.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The plan contained provisions requiring Ukraine to withdraw from parts of the Donbas that it continued to hold, to relinquish its bid for Nato membership, and to limit future military cooperation with the West.

In Geneva, US and Ukrainian officials attempted to stabilise the fallout by announcing that they had agreed on what they called an updated and refined peace framework to guide future steps.

Russian President Vladimir Putin later stated that these discussions did not constitute a full draft treaty. Healso acknowledged that Washington and Kyiv had subdivided the 28 points into four major components and shared the revised version with Moscow.

Putin, speaking during his visit to Central Asia, welcomed this development as a potential foundation for later agreements, saying, In general, we agree that this could be the basis for future agreements. We see that the American side takes into account our position.

This interpretation was complicated by leaks suggesting that Russian officials close to Putin believed they had significant influence over the structure of the plan.

In one leaked call published by Bloomberg, Kirill Dmitriev, head of Russias sovereign wealth fund, purportedly remarked that, Well just make this paper from our position, and that even if US officials did not follow it exactly, at least itll be as close to it as possible.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Another recording allegedly captured Witkoff advising a top Kremlin aide on favourable messaging for Putin to use with Trump.

Head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund and Russian special presidential envoy for economic cooperation with foreign countries, Kirill Dmitriev (left), talks to US President Donald Trumps special envoy Steve Witkoff during a meeting in Saint Petersburg, Russia April 11, 2025. File Image/Reuters via Sputnik

Putin subsequently dismissed suggestions that Witkoff was biased towards Moscow, saying, It would be astonishing if he  rained curses down upon our heads, was very rude and then arrived to develop ties with us. He described Witkoff as a patriot representing U.S. interests.

What are Putins demands to end the war in Ukraine?

Russian territorial demands

A central pillar of Putins demands is recognition of the territories Russia currently occupies.

Since annexing Crimea in 2014, Russia has expanded its control across parts of southern and eastern Ukraine, and by this year held more than 19 per cent of the countrys landmass  around 115,600 square kilometres.

This represents a marginal territorial increase compared to two years earlier but reflects the most rapid pace of Russian territorial expansion since 2022.

Putin has repeated that Ukraine must pull its forces out of the regions Russia claims before the Kremlin will agree to halt operations.

During recent comments, he reiterated, Ukrainian troops must withdraw from the territories they hold, and then the fighting will cease. If they dont leave, then we shall achieve this by armed means. Thats it.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

If they dont withdraw, well achieve this by force of arms.

The Russian president also reiterated his desire for the Donbas to be included in negotiations with the United States.

When asked whether these regions might be acknowledged as under Russian control in practice but not legally recognised, he responded, This is the point of our discussion with our American counterparts.

Elections in Ukraine

Putin also argued that the Ukrainian government itself lacks legal legitimacy, asserting that no binding document could be concluded with Kyiv under the current circumstances.

Ukraine has been under martial law since February 2022, which has prevented the scheduling of regular elections.

French President Emmanuel Macron welcomes Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as he arrives for a meeting at the Elysee Palace in Paris, France, November 17, 2025. File Image/Reuters

Although the Ukrainian parliament unanimously affirmed President Volodymyr Zelenskyys legitimacy after his term expired, Putin claimed the opposite, stating that there was "no use" in signing agreements with the current leadership.

He added that any eventual agreement with Ukraine must be backed by international recognition to ensure its enforceability.

Nato membership & security guarantees

Another long-standing Russian demand is the end of Ukraines pursuit of Nato membership. Moscow has argued since the early 2000s that Nato expansion poses a direct threat to its national security.

The leaked 28-point plan proposed that Ukraine amend its constitution to remove references to joining Nato  language that was added in 2019.

However, observers in Moscow noted that constitutional changes can be reversed, making such a guarantee difficult to treat as permanent.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Meanwhile, the idea that Nato itself could indefinitely block Ukraines accession has raised concerns among Alliance members such as Poland and the Baltic states.

On the Ukrainian side, officials maintain that security guarantees are essential to prevent future aggression. They have repeatedly emphasised that any settlement must include firm protections against further invasion, not temporary arrangements that leave the country vulnerable.

Zelenskyy reiterated after Putins recent remarks that Russia had scorned genuine efforts to end the war.

He stressed that Ukrainian and US delegations would continue working to translate the points we secured in Geneva into a form that puts us on the path to peace and security guarantees.

How has the battlefield in Ukraine fared?

Analysts note that Russian forces have achieved incremental advances this year, though at a substantial cost in manpower and equipment.

The battle for the city of Pokrovsk in eastern Ukraine has been one of the most closely watched clashes, and the situation around Zaporizhzhia has raised new concerns for Ukrainian defences.

Ukraines military has been grappling with shortages of trained infantry and has struggled to counter Russias use of drones and artillery.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Despite this pressure, Ukrainian forces have increased long-range drone operations against Russian oil and industrial infrastructure.

These strikes have coincided with new US sanctions on Rosneft and Lukoil, which have sharply reduced Russian oil and gas revenues  down roughly a quarter compared to the previous year.

Russia has also faced recruitment challenges.

Some regional authorities have reduced financial incentives for military enlistment due to budget limitations, contributing to a decline in new sign-ups compared to earlier in the conflict.

What next for the Ukraine peace push?

Trump has repeatedly stated his intention to end the war, although his administrations approach has sometimes unsettled both Ukraine and Europe.

Trump met Putin in Alaska in August in an effort to revive diplomatic channels.

He has publicly signalled confidence that an agreement is within reach, recently stating that only a few remaining points of disagreement separate Russia and Ukraine.

He also indicated that any meeting with Zelenskyy to finalise discussions would depend on achieving progress on these unresolved issues.

Putin confirmed that Steve Witkoff would travel to Moscow soon and suggested that the US delegation might include additional prominent figures. Trump said that Witkoff could be joined by Jared Kushner during the trip to Russia.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

On the Ukrainian side, senior officials view the US involvement as essential, even as they remain wary of any proposals that would undermine Ukraines sovereign decision-making.

Zelenskyys chief of staff Andriy Yermak noted that US Army Secretary Dan Driscoll was expected in Kyiv for consultations.

With inputs from agencies
An enraged Donald Trump has threatened to suspend immigration from all Third World countries after two members of the National Guard were shot near the White House in Washington, DC, on Wednesday (November 26), allegedly by an Afghan immigrant. One of the victims, Sarah Beckstrom, has died, while the other remains in hospital. The US presidents warning comes after he ordered the re-examination of all green card applications from 19 countries of concern

A police officer secures the area as law-enforcement officials visit the crime scene of a shooting in downtown Washington, DC, on November 26, 2025. AFP

Donald Trump has intensified his crackdown on immigration after an Afghan national was accused of shooting two members of the National Guard in Washington DC on Wednesday (November 26). Sarah Beckstrom, one of the National Guard troops shot, has died, the US president announced a day after the attack. Andrew Wolfe, 24, is still fighting for his life, he added.

A furious Trump has threatened to suspend immigration from all Third World countries in the wake of the shooting. This comes after he ordered the United States government to re-examine all green card applications from 19 countries of concern.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Lets take a closer look.

Which are Third World nations?

The term Third World is used for poor or developing countries, while First World refers to rich or developed nations. However, these words were not coined to divide countries on an economic basis but on their political alignment.

The three worlds model was first introduced during the Cold War. The term Third World was invented by French demographer Alfred Sauvy in a 1952 article titled Three Worlds, One Planet.

In this context, the First World was used for the US and its capitalist allies such as Western Europe, Japan and Australia.

The term Second World was used for the communist Soviet Union and its Eastern European bloc. The Third World consisted of other countries that were not aligned with either side in the Cold War.

These nations mostly included poor former European colonies, and almost all the nations in Asia, Africa, West Asia, and Latin America.

Today, the First World is still used to describe Western economies. The meaning of Third World has shifted from non-aligned to refer to countries in the developing world.

However, the term Third World has become obsolete today, with phrases like developing countries and low and lower-middle-income countries used in its place.

The United Nations currently designates 44 states as Least Developed Countries (LDCs). This list includes 32 countries in Africa, such as Angola, Ethiopia, Malawi, Rwanda, Uganda, and Zambia; eight in Asia, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Yemen; one in the Caribbean (Haiti), and three in the Pacific  Kiribati, Solomon Islands, and Tuvalu.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Trump warns Third World countries

US President Donald Trump has said he will suspend immigration from all Third World countries following the attack near the White House.

I will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the US system to fully recover, terminate all of the millions of Biden illegal admissions, including those signed by Sleepy Joe Bidens autopen, and remove anyone who is not a net asset to the United States, he wrote on his social media platform, Truth Social.

He further said that all federal benefits and subsidies to noncitizens will end, and he will denaturalize migrants who undermine domestic tranquillity, and deport any foreign national who is a public charge, security risk, or non-compatible with Western civilization.

Trump did not identify the nations or what he meant by third-world countries.

The US presidents remarks came after two members of the West Virginia National Guard were shot near the White House in Washington, DC.

An Afghan immigrant, identified as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, has been named as a suspect in the shooting, which led to the death of one of the victims. Lakanwal had entered the US in 2021 under a resettlement programme set up by the then Joe Biden administration after the American militarys withdrawal from Afghanistan.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Authorities said the accused was among the nearly 76,000 Afghans brought to the US after the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan as the Taliban took over the country, according to Associated Press (AP).

The alleged gunman was, however, granted asylum this year under Trump, Reuters reported, citing a US government file.

In a separate post before the announcement, Trump claimed that hundreds of thousands of people poured into the US totally unvetted and unchecked during what he called the horrendous airlift from Afghanistan.

On Wednesday, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) stopped processing all immigration requests relating to Afghan nationals indefinitely, pending further review of security and vetting protocols.

These goals will be pursued with the aim of achieving a major reduction in illegal and disruptive populations, Trump said.

Only REVERSE MIGRATION can fully cure this situation.

Should Indians worry?

As the outdated term Third World is generally used to refer to developing countries in the Global South, India falls under the category.

However, it is unclear what Trump meant by third-world countries. There is no clarity yet on the issue.

Review of Green Cards

According to officials from the Department of Homeland Security, Trump has ordered a review of asylum cases approved under Bidens administration and Green Cards issued to citizens of 19 countries.

The Trump administration said it would review the immigration status of every Green Card holder from Afghanistan and 18 other countries.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Joseph Edlow, Trumps director of US Citizenship and Immigration Services, said Thursday (November 28) that he had ordered a full scale, rigorous reexamination of every Green Card for every alien from every country of concern.

The protection of this country and of the American people remains paramount, and the American people will not bear the cost of the prior administrations reckless resettlement policies, Edlow reportedly said.

While he did not reveal the applicants of which countries would be reviewed, his office told AP to refer to a June 4 presidential proclamation restricting nationals of 19 countries from entering the US.

This list includes Afghanistan, Haiti, Iran, Myanmar, Cuba, Venezuela and Yemen.

A full travel ban was imposed on travellers from Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Congo-Brazzaville, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen, while a partial ban was put on visitors from Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela.

With inputs from agencies

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
America on Thursday celebrated Thanksgiving, a major holiday on which millions of people all over the country invite their friends and family to share a meal at their homes. While the holiday is famous for its camaraderie and companionship, the highlight is unarguably the Thanksgiving turkey, which is usually accompanied by mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie. But have you ever wondered how turkey became part of the Thanksgiving tradition?

In America, Thursday was Thanksgiving.

This is a major holiday where millions of people all over the country invite their friends and family to share a meal at their homes.

While the holiday is famous for its camaraderie and companionship, the highlight is unarguably the Thanksgiving turkey which is usually accompanied by mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie.

But have you ever wondered how Turkey became part of the Thanksgiving tradition?

Lets take a closer look.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Talking turkey

It was estimated that around 30 million turkeys were consumed on Thanksgiving in America. Ironically, turkey is nowhere to be found on the list of dishes at the first Thanksgiving in 1621. The celebration was started by the Pilgrim settlers of Plymouth Colony, who were celebrating their autumnal harvest by sharing a meal with indigenous Wampanoag people.

But what did they eat? Venison, fish, shellfish, corn, vegetables, roots, berries, and fowl likely such as duck or goose, according to accounts of the meal written decades afterwards. Was turkey served? Troy Bickham, a history professor and director of the Melbourne Glasscock Centre for Humanities Research at Texas A&M University, told Vox the answer is no. As to why?

The long answer is we dont know. We have two eyewitness accounts describing Thanksgiving, and they were not interested in describing the food. The only thing we know for certain that they ate was venison.

Around 30 million turkeys were consumed on Thanksgiving in America. Reuters

This wasnt for a lack of turkeys either. At the time, there were around 10 million wild turkeys roaming across North America. Wild turkeys, also known as Meleagris gallopavo, existed on the continent long before the European pilgrims arrived, lexicographer Erin McKean told NPR. They were found mainly in Mexico and the US Southwest.

However, the Europeans also had a bird similar to turkey known as the African guinea fowl. Experts say it is no small stretch to think that the Europeans mistook one for the other.

I bet they look a lot more similar when theyre denuded of their feathers, roasted and on a plate, McKean added. It was Spanish explorers who brought the bird back to Europe. It was here that they were raised and eaten by many, particularly those in the upper class in Spain.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

How turkey became a popular dish

Meanwhile, as the English colonists came to settle in America, they brought along their domesticated descendants of the American turkey with them. These fowl grew increasingly popular as a meal over the years because of myriad reasons. This included their size wherein a single bird could feed a massive family, unlike chickens or cows they did not provide eggs or milk, they were easy to raise, and abundant in the wild.

Cut to 1789 and George Washington, the first President of the United States, announced a day of National Thanksgiving. However, this was more of a one-off celebration rather than a repeating holiday. But it took the efforts of one woman to make turkey a Thanksgiving staple in the mid-19th century.

Sarah Josepha Hale, a writer and editor of the ladies magazine Godeys  which some have called the Readers Digest of its day  mounted a campaign to make Thanksgiving a national holiday.

Hale, in one of her popular novels, Northwood: A Tale of New England (1827), described a feast thus: The roasted turkey took precedence on this occasion, being placed at the head of the table; and well did it become its lordly station, thus sending forth the rich odour of its savoury stuffing, and finely covered with the frost of its basting.

Hale, incidentally, also wrote Mary Had a Little Lamb. Hale, like many other individuals at that time, was looking for a national holiday that Americans could rally around. This came in the backdrop of greater divisions increasing in the United States over the subject of slavery.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

US Army soldiersdeep fry a turkey in preparation for Thanksgiving dinner. Reuters

Hale, through her reach, persuaded women from all around the country to write to their local representatives asking for Thanksgiving to be made into a national holiday. Millions of women also imitated Hales culinary efforts, particularly the turkey recipes in her magazine.

By 1854, over 30 states and US territories celebrated Thanksgiving every year. As the US Civil War raged in 1863, then President Abraham Lincoln officially designated the final Thursday in November as a national Thanksgiving holiday.

By the 20th century, the rise of industrialism made turkeys a relatively cheap meal. The trend in industrialising poultry in general as far as meat is concerned was to select for larger and larger breast size and animals that would grow to maturity super quickly, and produce more meat faster, Elan Abrell, a cultural anthropologist and assistant professor in animal studies at Wesleyan University, told History.com.

For the foreseeable future, turkey will remain the centrepiece of the holiday.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
Nepal on its new note has featured a new national map including territories of Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura that India has long maintained are its own. The development has yet again reignited the border dispute between the two countries

The new Rs 100 denomination bank notes that have been issued by Nepal's central bank. PTI

Nepals new Rs 100 currency note has left India irked.

Kathmandu on its new note has featured a new national map including territories that India has long maintained as its own. The development has yet again reignited the border dispute between the two countries.

India and Nepal share a border of around 1,850 kilometres. Five Indian states  Sikkim, West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand  border Nepal.

But what happened? What do we know about the areas and why they are important? How has India responded?

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Lets take a closer look.

What we know about Nepals new Rs 100 note

The new Rs 100 currency note depicts a map showing the areas of Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura territories as part of Nepal. The new note comes with the signature of previous Governor Maha Prasad Adhikari. The date of issuance of the banknote is 2081 BS, which stands for the previous year 2024.

This is the map that the previous KP Sharma Oli government had approved in May 2020 after the go-ahead from Nepals parliament. A spokesperson of the Nepal Rastra Bank said that the map was already depicted on the previous Rs 100 note. The spokesman added that this has been reworked after a decision from the Nepal government.

Under the Nepal Rastra Bank Act, the NRB is responsible for designing the notes. However, any changes to the design or size of the notes need government approval. The new note features Mount Everest on the left side and a watermark of the Rhododendron  the national flower of Nepal  on the right.

A Rs 100 Nepal bank note that Nepal government has decided to replace the map of Nepal printed on. PTI

The centre of the note includes illustrations of Nepals map and the Ashoka Pillar. The note depicts a faint green-coloured map of Nepal in the background in the middle. The Ashoka Pillar is placed near the map with the accompanying text, Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. The back of the note also features a picture of a one-horned rhinoceros with its calf.

It has a security thread as well as an embossed black dot to aid the blind in recognising it via touch. Of all Nepals currencies  Rs 10, Rs 50, Rs 100, Rs 500, and Rs 1,000  the only one to feature the map is the 100-rupee note.

What we know about the areas, their importance

Kalapani, which comprises 35 square kilometres, is located in Uttarakhands Pithoragarh district. The river Mahakali flows through the area. However, Nepal has claimed that Kalapani is part of the Darchula district. The Indo-Tibetan Border Police has patrolled the area since 1962. The area is important because it sits at the junction between Nepal, China and India.

The 1816 Treaty of Sugauli, which British India and Nepal signed, defined the river as the western border of Nepal. India claims the river Mahakali, which has several tributaries all of which merge at Kalapani, begins there. But Nepal claims it originates from the Lipulekh Pass. Nepal has laid claim to all areas east of the Lipu Gad  the rivulet that joins the river Kali on its border, a tri-junction with India and China, a scholar wrote.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The Kailash Mansarovar is seen from the flight. PTI

Lipulekh is a Himalayan pass linking Uttarakhand and Tibet. Traders and pilgrims, including those for Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, have used this pass for hundreds of years. Though it is controlled by India, both countries lay claim to it. India in 2020 had constructed an 80-kilometre road from Uttarakhand to the pass. The then Government had claimed strategic, religious and trade reasons for doing so.

Nepal had objected to this at the time, and urged India not to carry out any construction work or trade in an area it claimed as its own. The ministry argued trade through Lipulekh began in 1954 and has been ongoing for decades. The ministry also slammed Nepals claims as unjustified and not based on historical facts or evidence.

Limpiyadhura is a glacial ridge north-west of Kalapani. Nepal claims it is the source of Mahakali river, which India disputes. Taken together, these areas comprise around 370 square kilometres.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

What the Ministry of External Affairs has said

India has slammed Nepals actions, calling the move an artificial enlargement of territory. External affairs minister S Jaishankar said it does not change the ground reality and that Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura are Indian territories. India, responding to the 2020 map that Nepal put out laying claim to all these territories, said it was a cartographic assertion. The External Affairs Ministry had previously slammed Nepals map as a unilateral act that does not change ground reality. The statement noted:

This unilateral act is not based on historical facts and evidence. It is contrary to the bilateral understanding to resolve the outstanding boundary issues through diplomatic dialogue. Such artificial enlargement of territorial claims will not be accepted by India.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said it does not change the ground reality and that Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura are Indian territories. ANI

India had previously warned Nepal against artificial enlargement of territorial claims. The ministry spokesperson said dialogues between Nepal and India regarding boundary, border areas, are ongoing within that framework. On territorial claims, our position remains that such claims are neither justified nor based on historical facts and evidence. Any unilateral artificial enlargement of territorial claims is untenable.

New Delhi has previously said it is open to constructive interaction with Kathmandu on resolving boundary issues through dialogue and diplomacy. India in August had rejected Nepals objection to the resumption of IndiaChina border trade through the Lipulekh Pass. The ministry reiterated: trade through Lipulekh Pass had commenced in 1954 and has been going on for decades. As regards territorial claims, their position remains unchanged.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Why China is printing all of Nepals currency

This is nothing new. For decades India had been printing Kathmandus currency. However, Nepal switched to printing via China, a decade ago  reportedly because no Indian printer would be able to depict these disputed territories as part of Nepali currency under the law. China continues to print all of Nepals currency.

The NRB had commissioned the Chinese company to design, print, supply and deliver 300 million 100-rupee notes. The total printing cost is estimated at approximately US$ 8,996,592  which, at current rates, works out to roughly Rs 63.4 lakh. So, making the cost of printing each 100-rupee note is around NPR 4.04, i.e. about US$ 0.028 and INR 0.0025.

With inputs from agencies
US President Donald Trump has halted all official recognition of World Aids Day for the first time in over three decades, directing State Department staff and grantees to avoid public messaging or events tied to the global observance. The move raises concerns about Americas future role in the global HIV/Aids response

People walk past the AIDS Memorial Quilt on display for the first time on the South Lawn of the White House on the day of an event marking World AIDS Day in Washington, US, December 1, 2024. File Image/Reuters

For more than three decades, the United States has acknowledged December 1 as World Aids Day, using it as a fixture on the public health calendar to reflect on the lives lost to Aids, highlight global progress against HIV, and signal US leadership in the worldwide fight against the virus.

This tradition, which began in 1988 and continued under both Democratic and Republican administrations, has now been halted.

What we know

This year, the US State Department recently circulated internal guidance directing its staff and grantees not to use federal funds, official communication platforms, or agency events to observe World Aids Day.

The instruction makes clear that the prohibition applies to all public-facing content, including social media posts, press interactions, speeches, newsletters, and other messaging.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

While the guidance allows officials to attend externally organised gatherings, it prohibits them from delivering remarks at such events or promoting their participation online.

According to the communication, the change is part of a broader rule intended to restrict federal messaging about all commemorative observances.

The order stands out because World Aids Day has been recognised by every US administration since the late 1980s.

Even during periods of political disagreement over HIV funding and public health priorities, the US government maintained an official presence, often using the day to outline global progress or reaffirm support for key programmes such as the Presidents Emergency Plan for Aids Relief (PEPFAR).

PEPFAR releases its annual data to Congress around this time each year. However, with the new restrictions, it is unclear whether the State Department will adhere to the usual timeline for presenting those metrics.

Several public health observers say this uncertainty compounds the anxiety already surrounding the future of US global HIV programming.

Emily Bass, a writer and long-time reporter on HIV/Aids responses, and the first to publicly reveal details of the policy change, expressed concern over the opacity surrounding the data release, telling the The New York Times, We have been waiting for those data for a year.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

She added that the figures carry particular weight this year because of disruptions and funding uncertainties that have affected PEPFAR throughout the past cycle.

What Washingtons defence is

US State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott defended the administrations decision by emphasising a shift in approach.

In comments to The New York Times, he stated, An awareness day is not a strategy. Under the leadership of President Trump, the State Department is working directly with foreign governments to save lives and increase their responsibility and burden sharing.

However, the administrations decision is also notable because public statements and proclamations continue for numerous other commemorative events.

In the past year, the White House has acknowledged occasions such as World Autism Awareness Day, World Intellectual Property Day, National Manufacturing Day, Anti-Communism Week, and National Energy Dominance Month.

Critics question why World Aids Day  an observance with bipartisan support for more than 30 years  was singled out.

A senior administration official, speaking to reporters, pointed to the origins of World Aids Day as part of the World Health Organisations efforts.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Given that President Donald Trump withdrew the United States from the WHO on his first day in office, the official suggested that the new position aligns with the administrations broader stance toward the UN health body.

How HIV/Aids advocates reacted

Peter Staley, a veteran HIV/Aids advocate and co-founder of PrEP4All, said the move was deeply unsettling, told The New York Times. It just seems petty and hostile, frankly.

He added that the decision evoked painful memories of the early years of the epidemic, remarking, It just felt very reminiscent of the Reagan administration.

At a time when many in the HIV community believe sustained communication and leadership are essential to preventing backsliding, the decision to halt World Aids Day messaging has been seen as a symbolic retreat from commitments the US had maintained for decades.

Lawmakers expressed their own distress. US Representative Mark Pocan of Wisconsin, who leads the Congressional HIV/Aids Caucus, condemned the policy, arguing that the absence of messaging is inherently harmful.

His response stated. Silence is not neutrality; it is harm. In his statement, he called for an immediate reversal and a renewed commitment to fighting HIV/Aids.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

In the 1980s, US leadership was widely criticised for insufficient action and silence at a time when HIV was claiming thousands of lives. Many activists view public recognition as a critical piece of accountability and awareness-building, even if symbolic.

How this plays into Trump 2.0

Earlier this year, the White House froze foreign aid, disrupting projects tied to HIV prevention, treatment, and care in multiple regions.

International modelling studies estimate that reductions by the US and other major donors could lead to an estimated 10 million additional HIV infections, including one million among children, and three million more deaths in the next five years.

This projection has been cited repeatedly by global health organisations as an urgent warning. The US has traditionally served as the chief financier for the global HIV response.

According to UNAIDS, cuts to foreign aid have already led to treatment shortages, disruptions in prevention programmes, and loss of life.

In a report issued earlier this year, the agency stated plainly that the reductions had killed people, deprived millions of lifesaving medicine, and forced the global HIV response into what it called crisis mode.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The most visible symbol of Americas historic leadership is PEPFAR. Launched in 2003 under US President George W Bush, PEPFAR has been credited with preventing 25 million early deaths.

Yet the programmes budget faced substantial reductions this year, and further cuts have been proposed.

Some reporting has indicated that the administration is considering ending PEPFAR entirely  an issue that remains unresolved.

With PEPFAR playing a central role in treatment access across more than 50 countries, even uncertainty about its future affects policy planning, staffing, and long-term treatment reliability.

What this means for US fight against Aids

World Aids Day first came into being under the World Health Organization in 1988.

In the US, the observance took root in the early 1990s, gaining formal recognition in 1993 when US President Bill Clinton issued the first presidential proclamation.

Over the years, public events, panels, statements, and awareness campaigns became central to US participation.

Last year, US President Joe Biden hosted the first White House display of quilt panels from the Aids Memorial Quilt, honouring more than 110,000 lives lost. It was widely viewed as a symbolic gesture reinforcing the USs place in the global remembrance of the epidemic.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

This years reversal therefore carries more than logistical consequences. It signals a philosophical shift in how the administration sees its role in symbolic public health advocacy and global disease responses.

What next?

Although the State Departments original message contained nuanced instructions, including permission to highlight ongoing infectious disease work, the direction reportedly lost detail as it spread through other federal entities.

For instance, an internal email circulated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reiterated the prohibition on messaging but omitted the clarification that employees were still permitted to highlight non-commemorative work and refer to HIV as a serious disease.

Such inconsistencies have caused confusion, prompting some observers to wonder whether the internal guidance was fully coordinated across federal health agencies.

These gaps matter because large portions of PEPFARs implementation are managed through CDC-led projects abroad, and unclear communication can lead to delays or unintentional policy breaches.

Also Watch:

With inputs from agencies
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red colour warnings for coastal southern India as cyclone Ditwah has killed at least 69 persons in Sri Lanka. The cyclone is expected to make landfall in India on Sunday.

Sri Lankan troops were racing to rescue hundreds of people marooned by rising floodwaters on Friday as weather-related deaths rose to 69, with another 34 people declared missing.

Helicopters and navy boats carried out multiple rescue operations, plucking residents from tree tops, roofs and villages cut off by floodwaters.

The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) said the toll had climbed with the recovery of more bodies in the worst affected central region, where most victims had been buried alive as mudslides hit this week.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Rain was falling across the island with some regions receiving 360 millimetres in the past 24 hours, the DMC said.

Heavy rainfall forecast for Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh

The IMD has issued red warnings for coastal southern India and forecast extremely heavy rainfall from Friday to Monday.

Tamil Nadu is expected to receive heavy rainfall between November 28 and December 1, with isolated extremely heavy rainfall over coastal areas between November 28 and November 30.

In coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam and Rayalaseema, isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely between November 29 and December 1.

Cyclone Ditwah is also expected to bring a gradual increase in wind speeds, according to B Amudha, Deputy Director General at the Regional Meteorological Centre, IMD.

Wind speeds may be 6080 kilometres per hour (kmph), gusting to 90 kmph in areas along the storms path. For the next two days, strong surface winds of 4050 kmph may prevail over coastal Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal, Amudha told The Times of India.

Cyclone Ditwahs trail of destruction in Sri Lanka

Cyclone Ditwah has turned out to be Sri Lankas worst disaster since 2017, when flooding and landslides killed more than 200 people and displaced hundreds of thousands across the country.

Sri Lankas Disaster Management Centre said Ditwah has affected at least 12,000 families so far, damaging over 600 homes and displacing more than 3,600 people, according to The Times.
The update significantly alters the countrys understanding of earthquake hazards, showing that 61 per cent of India is now classified as having moderate to high seismic risk, an assessment that will reshape how buildings, infrastructure, and expanding cities plan

India has unveiled a dramatically revised seismic zonation map as part of the new Earthquake Design Code, placing the entire Himalayan arc into a newly created highest-risk Zone VI for the first time.

The update significantly alters the countrys understanding of earthquake hazards, showing that 61 per cent of India is now classified as having moderate to high seismic risk, an assessment that will reshape how buildings, infrastructure, and expanding cities plan for the deep tectonic forces beneath some of the most densely populated parts of the subcontinent.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Vineet Gahalaut, director of the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology and former head of the National Centre for Seismology, told the Times of India that the updated map finally establishes consistent treatment of the Himalayan corridor, which was previously divided between Zones IV and V despite being governed by the same tectonic drivers.

He noted that older maps underestimated the danger posed by long-quiet fault sections, particularly the central Himalaya, which has not produced a major surface rupture in nearly 200 years.

How is the new map different?

Experts consider this revision one of the most consequential updates to Indias seismic risk framework in decades. The changes reclassify the outer Himalaya as a region where future ruptures are expected to propagate southward until meeting the Himalayan Frontal Thrust, beginning near Mohand in the Dehradun sector, a modification that senior scientists told TOI finally aligns hazard levels with geological reality rather than administrative borders.

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), which released the updated zonation under the revised Earthquake Design Code, explained that the mapping is based on globally recognised probabilistic seismic hazard assessment (PSHA) techniques. These methods account for active fault characteristics, maximum potential earthquake magnitudes, how shaking decreases with distance, tectonic regimes, and subsurface geology.

This replaces the older system, which leaned heavily on past earthquake epicentres, broad geological traits and soil categories, and historical damage surveysan approach that sometimes led to hazard adjustments near industrial hubs or major cities without sufficiently considering the seismic capacity of individual faults.

BIS said the updated zonation offers a clearer picture of the peak ground accelerations that future earthquakes may generate, urging engineers and planners to adopt the 2025 map rather than the 2016 version to ensure construction reflects current hazard levels. This shift is especially important given that nearly 75 per cent of Indias population now lives in seismically active regions, and the proportion of land in moderate to high hazard zones has risen from 59 per cent to 61 per cent.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

How will it help?

The new code brings major upgrades to safety requirements for both structural and non-structural components, with the latter receiving serious attention for the first time. Elements such as ceilings, parapets, overhead tanks, facade panels, lifts, electrical lines, and suspended fixtures often fail even when the main structure remains intact.

Under the revised rules, all heavy non-structural components exceeding 1 per cent of a buildings total weight must be properly anchored and braced to reduce internal collapses and limit injuries during moderate earthquakes, an improvement engineers say will prevent many avoidable casualties.

Critical infrastructure, including hospitals, schools, pipelines, bridges, and key public buildings, must now be designed to remain operational after a major earthquake so they can support disaster response. Engineers say this aligns India with international best practices that prioritise resilience of essential services, not just the survival of the physical structure.

While the Himalayan region underwent sweeping reclassification under the revised map, the southern peninsula saw only minor scientific refinements. Its overall hazard assessment remains largely unchanged due to the comparatively stable tectonic conditions in the south.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
According to Hus vision, Tibetans should fully exercise nationality autonomy and truly be the masters of their own lives. Xi Jinpings reference to Hu suggests that, even as Beijing pursues the complete sinicisation of its restive provinces, Hus vision has not been entirely buried

After the Tiananmen Square events of 1989, there was a hardening of Beijings policies towards Tibet, with the arrival of leaders like Hu Jintao on the scene. Representational Image: Reuters

Hu Yaobang, who rose to prominence after the Cultural Revolution (19661976), was perhaps the most liberal leader in the history of Communist China; he served as the General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) from 1982 to 1987.

In October 1987, during the first plenary session of the Central Committee, he was again elected a member of the Politburo.

Unfortunately, on April 8, 1989, Hu suffered a heart attack while attending an important meeting in Zhongnanhai. Though rushed to the hospital, a week later, Hu passed away; he was then 73 years old. Hus last will was to be buried simply, without extravagance, in his hometown.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

During the memorial service, Hus widow, Li Zhao, blamed Hus death on how the Party had treated him; she told Deng Xiaoping, Its all because of you people!

More from Opinion How Yunus repeats Khomeinis playbook to bring Islamist rule in Bangladesh

However, in his official obituary, Hu was described as a long-tested and staunch communist warrior, a great proletarian revolutionist and statesman, an outstanding political leader for the Chinese army.

On April 22, 50,000 students marched to Tiananmen Square to participate in Hus memorial service and to deliver a letter of petition to the Chinese Premier Li Peng.

Then, public mourning began at the Monument to the Peoples Heroes in Beijing and in many other places in China; students turned out in large numbers to pay their homage to the deceased leader.

According to Wikipedia: The mourning became a public conduit for anger against perceived nepotism in the government, the unfair dismissal and early death of Hu, and the behind-the-scenes role of the old men, officially retired leaders who nevertheless maintained quasi-legal power.

Deng Xiaoping was one of them.

It was the beginning of the protests which escalated into the students unrest on Tiananmen Square in May/June 1989. The world still remembers how less than two months later, it ended with the entry of the tanks on the Square.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Since then, the Chinese Communist Party has been lukewarm about the reformist leader, preferring to forget his legacy.

Xi Jinping Praises Hu Yaobang

To the surprise of many, on November 20, 2025, President Xi Jinping delivered a speech at the Symposium Commemorating the 110th Anniversary of Comrade Hu Yaobangs Birth. The function did not get much coverage, but Xi praised the former General Secretary: Comrade Hu Yaobang was an outstanding leader who held important leadership positions in the Party for a long period. He made immortal contributions to national independence and liberation, socialist revolution and construction, reform and opening up, and socialist modernisation.

The Chinese president went on to describe the extraordinary life of Hu Yaobang.

How should this be read in the present power struggle to replace Xi at the helm? It is difficult to answer.

In his speech, Xi noted, From June 1981 to January 1987, [Hu] served as Chairman and General Secretary of the Central Committee. From a Red Little Devil in the Soviet Area to a leader of the Party, from a revolutionary fighter charging into battle to a pioneer of reform and opening up, no matter what position he held, he always maintained a selfless dedication and indomitable revolutionary enthusiasm, tirelessly contributing everything to the cause of the Party and the people. Comrade Hu Yaobangs life was a glorious life, a fighting life, and a life of dedication.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Is the present leadership planning to follow in the footsteps of Hu Yaobang? Probably not, but only the future will tell us with certainty.

To conclude, Xi praised his spirit of seeking truth from facts and pioneering new paths; his excellent qualities of being pragmatic, responsible, and courageous; and his lofty demeanour of being fair, upright, and self-disciplined.

Xi openly exhorted the Party: He is forever worthy of our emulation.

Though the present leadership is paying lip service to the values promoted by the old liberal leader, it has forgotten some of his remarkable deeds.

A Visit to Tibet

In this context, it is interesting to remember Hu Yaobangs visit to Lhasa, the Tibetan capital, from May 22 to May 31, 1980; Hu Yaobang was leading an inspection tour by a Working Group of the Party Central Committee.

The Working Group was composed of five senior leaders: Hu Yaobang, General Secretary of the Secretariat of the Central Committee; Wan Li, Vice-Premier of the State Council; Ngapo Ngawang Jigme, a Tibetan who was serving as Vice-Chairman of the National Peoples Congress; Yang Jingren, the Head of the State Commission of Nationalities Affairs; and Zhao Zhengqing, Vice-Minister of the Partys Organisation Department.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

During a speech, Hu told the Party cadres that the Tibetans should exercise nationality autonomy in the region fully  that is to say, to let Tibetans really be the masters of their own lives.

This was not far from the genuine autonomy asked today by the Dalai Lama.

Wang Yao, an assistant to the Chinese leader, later wrote a report: An Important Development in the Chinese Governments Tibet Policy.

Yao quoted Edgar Snow, an old friend of the Party leadership, who once said, Nothing carried out in public by the leaders of the Central Committee is ever casual or without significance.

Indeed, Hus visit was then supported by the Party.

Yao also noted, This event was watched with great interest by those, both at home and abroad, who were concerned with Tibetan society, and it can be said that this event marked the beginning of a new era for the PCCs Tibet policy.

According to Hus assistant, during a party meeting organised to celebrate the 1951 Agreement, Hu gave a powerful political speech to some 5,000 cadres in Lhasa. The motto was Strive to build a united, prosperous and civilised new Tibet.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

In the speech, Hu listed a few tasks for Tibet; he frankly admitted, Our present situation is less than wonderful because the Tibetan peoples lives have not been much improved. There are some improvements in some parts, but in general, Tibetans still live in relative poverty. In some areas the living standards have even gone down. We comrades, in the Central Committee, Chairman Hua [Guofeng] as well as several vice-chairmen, were very upset when we heard about this situation. We feel that our party has let the Tibetan people down. We feel very bad! The sole purpose of our Communist Party is to work for the happiness of people, to do good things for them. We have worked nearly thirty years, but the life of the Tibetan people has not been notably improved. Are we not to blame? If we dont make this clear, people wont let us off the hook; party members wont let us get away with it!

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Wang Yao later wrote, He was open and honest, dared to act, dared to face reality and dared [to] bear responsibility.

Never had a senior Communist leader been so open and honest.

It was probably the first and the last time that a senior leader accepted the Communist Partys mistakes in Tibet and tried to remedy them.

In the years that followed, Yao believed that the visit indisputably brought an open door, a revitalised economy, changes in the social structure and an improvement in peoples lives.

The very date of the visit tends to indicate that the Central Governments policy on Tibet was based on the Seventeen-Point Agreement signed in Beijing on May 23, 1951.

Though the Dalai Lama considered that the agreement was signed under duress, it was far better in terms of the autonomy granted to the Tibetans than the situation before Hu Yaobangs visit or today.

Hus Speech

In his speech on May 29, Hu put forward the slogan: Strive to build a united, prosperous and civilised new Tibet. He listed some tasks for the cadres posted on the roof of the world: [Tibet should] exercise nationality autonomy in the region fully  that is to say, to let Tibetans really be the masters of their own lives, and he pledged, A commitment by the Central Government to relieve and reduce burdens of the people.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

For Yao the visit and Hus speech indicated that the Central Government was willing to settle matters through consultation with the local people. and the Central Governments wish to restore the harmonious atmosphere of cooperation which had prevailed in the early 1950s.

It would never really be done. After the Tiananmen Square events of 1989, there was a hardening of Beijings policies, with the arrival of leaders like Hu Jintao on the scene.

So what does the recent speech of Xi Jinping mean?

One can doubt that it will herald a new Tibet or Xinjiang policy, as Beijing seems to have decided for the total sinicisation of its restive provinces, but it indicates that Hus vision has not been fully buried.

(The writer is Distinguished Fellow, Centre of Excellence for Himalayan Studies, Shiv Nadar Institution of Eminence (Delhi). Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the writer. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.)
Global military strongmen seeking to overthrow governments and install themselves as dictators must learn from Pakistans playbook on how to falsely project defeat as victory

Field Marshal William Slims book Defeat into Victory, published in 1956, covered the retaking of Burma (now Myanmar) from the Japanese by Allied forces during the Second World War. The book was praised for its narrative style and detailed account of the offensive, including honestly accepting mistakes.

Pakistan has been the only country whose leaders may not have read the book but implemented only its title to falsely project every defeat from India as a victory. Where it has failed, it has played a narrative projecting outside elements responsible for their failures.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Pakistani history books claim the 1947-48 conflict occurred when people rose against the Maharajas rule. The intent was to portray Pakistan as an innocent victim of Indian aggression, whereas the reality was that the attack by Pakistans tribal militias and army forced the Maharaja to accede to India, resulting in the Indian Army landing in Srinagar.

Pakistani books mention, Hari Singh started a brutal campaign to drive out Muslims from Kashmir. Over 200,000 people in the princely state, supported by the tribesmen of the Northwest Frontier Province, were successful in liberating a large area of Kashmir from the Maharajas control. So Hari Singh was forced to turn to India for help and in return acceded to India.

In 1965, Pakistans army chief, General Mohamad Musa Khan, launched Operation Gibraltar, which involved infiltrating special forces to create an uprising within Kashmir, which would coincide with an armed attack. The aim was to capture Kashmir. The operation began in August 1965, and within a month it collapsed, as there was no uprising within. India hit back, crossing the border in September. It went on to capture Haji Pir Pass, amongst other areas, which were handed back post the Tashkent talks.

About this failed Pakistani operation, the fifth-grade textbook in Peshawar mentions, The Pakistan Army conquered several areas of India, and when India was on the verge of being defeated, she ran to the UN to beg for a ceasefire. Magnanimously, Pakistan returned all conquered territories to India. Pakistan also marks September 6 as National Defence Day as a tribute to the armed forces. Yet another defeat falsely projected to victory.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

This process continued in 1971. It blamed its humiliating loss and largest surrender in history in the Bangladesh war on Hindu teachers in schools and colleges in erstwhile East Pakistan. Its Punjab school textbook mentions that Hindu teachers continued creating a negative impression on Pakistan. No importance was attached to explaining the ideology of Pakistan. It added that East Pakistans economy was impacted because Hindu teachers sent their income to India.

Though the army attempted to shift responsibility for the surrender on the then commander in East Pakistan, Gen AAK Niazi, by dismissing him from service without pension, the stigma remained.

The uprising in East Pakistan was largely due to his mismanagement and failed policies. To add to the misery, the womaniser and alcoholic, Gen Yahya Khan, was the martial law administrator. Defeat at the hands of India and the creation of Bangladesh led to the downfall of the military dictatorship, and Zulfikar Bhutto took over the reins.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The Pakistan Army accepted the ignominy of defeat for just six years, and in 1977 Bhutto was himself overthrown by Gen Zia ul Haq, and another dictatorship took root in Pakistan. Ironically, Benazir Bhutto became PM after Zias death in 1988. A graffiti on the walls in Karachi mentioned, Sorry for the interruption; military rule will return shortly.

In 1999, Pervez Musharraf, as the army chief, launched Operation Badr, which was the codename for infiltration and occupation of heights along the LoC in Kargil. Musharraf was certain, like many of his predecessors, that he would be the chief to provide Pakistan its first victory over India. This too failed when India launched Operation Vijay. Such was the embarrassment that Musharraf was forced to disown the remains of his dead soldiers and also deny their involvement.

Nawaz Sharif was compelled to order the withdrawal of whatever remained of Pakistani troops when Bill Clinton threatened him that India was preparing to escalate the conflict. Musharraf knew his plan had collapsed when his forces, occupying the heights, could no longer be replenished. The best example of projecting defeat as victory came after Operation Vijay, when, a few months later, Musharraf overthrew Nawaz Sharif and took over the reins of Pakistan.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

During that period military rulers, as well as dictators, were acceptable as long as they were useful to the West. Musharraf was useful as the US launched Operation Enduring Freedom to remove al-Qaeda from Afghanistan and needed Pakistans support. It no longer holds true.

To cover its failures against the Afghans and terrorist groups it created, in recent days, Pakistan began playing a new game. It forced its suppressed media to hide its losses while claiming overkills of fighters it terms as India-supported.

The Pakistan Army has dominated the nation since its inception. Historically, no Pakistani PM has served a full tenure, despite bowing to the armys demands, as egos clash with time. Its desire to control witnessed a change in recent years, especially during the tenures of General Bajwa and, following him, Asim Munir.

Bajwa was forced to bow down and release Wing Commander Abhinandan after his aircraft was hit post India launching Operation Bandar, destroying Pakistans terrorist camp in Balakote. Pakistan continues projecting the downing of Abhinandans aircraft as a victory, despite its own politician, Ayaz Sadiq, mentioning in the senate, I remember Shah Mahmood Qureshi was in the meeting in which Imran Khan had refused to attend, and Chief of Army Staff General Bajwa came into the room; his legs were shaking, and he was perspiring. The Foreign Minister said, For Gods sake, let Abhinandan go. Indias about to attack Pakistan at 9 pm.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Asim Munir has gone stages ahead. After having suffered massive losses in Indian strikes in Operation Sindoor, which destroyed or rendered unserviceable their air bases, terrorist camps, aircraft, missile defences and forward posts, he still claimed victory. Apart from pushing a fake narrative, he forced the government to appoint him as Field Marshal. It has taken Pakistan months to repair damages to their air bases.

Once failed marshal Munir began dominating the country in every sphere, there was no major nation which Munir visited with the PM in tow. Internally, he began plotting on how to gain absolute power without being termed a dictator. He forced the government to reorganise the structure of the armed forces by making him the head, thereby removing political control. By this appointment, Munir controls all security forces (internal and external) of the country.

Munir also had a law passed extending his tenure by five years and also providing him immunity from any form of prosecution for life. Such powers are only provided to dictators prior to being compelled to relinquish power. There was not a single politician who had the gall to question this decision.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Global military strongmen seeking to overthrow governments and become dictators must learn from Pakistan. It is essential that they master the Pakistan Armys handbook of projecting defeat into victory if they wish to succeed.

(The author is a former Indian Army officer, strategic analyst and columnist. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.)
Like Khomeini in the weeks before his seizure of power, Bangladeshs interim leader Mohammad Yunus still speaks about democracy, human rights and justice to visiting diplomats and journalists, but only the most gullible or dishonest among them believe him

The animosity of President Jimmy Carters administration to the Shah of Iran was pronounced. As Iranians took to the streets to protest his dictatorial ways, many in the State Department argued Washington should abandon him. In his memoirs, Principle and Power, National Security Advisor Zbigniew Brzezinski explained that the lower echelons at State, notably the head of the Iran Deskwere motivated by doctrinal dislike of the Shah and simply wanted him out of power altogether.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Lacklustre support for the Shah fuelled the Iranian mobs in the street, convincing them that they could win if they only persisted. Protests grew, and, on January 16, 1979, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi left Iran for the last time.

Those who justified the Shahs ouster cited his violent response to demonstrations. The Shahs detractors described the protests, many student-led, as motivated by a desire for democracy and human rights. Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini sought to maintain that illusion, telling Western reporters what they wanted to hear. I dont want to have the power or the government in my hand; I am not interested in personal power, he told The Guardian on November 16, 1978.

A week before the Shah left Iran, Khomeini assured Le Monde, After the Shahs departure from Iran, I will not become a president nor accept any other leadership role. He made a special effort to reach out to women and those worried about religious figures imposing their own conservatism on society. Women are free in the Islamic Republic in the selection of their activities and their future and their clothing, Khomeini explained.

Human rights professionals attested to Khomeinis sincerity. Writing in the New York Times, Richard Falk, a Princeton professor whom the United Nations would later hire as a special rapporteur on human rights, dismissed concerns that Khomeini wanted theocracy. To suppose that Ayatollah Khomeini is dissembling seems almost beyond belief. He has little incentive suddenly to become devious for the sake of American public opinion. Thus, the depiction of him as fanatical, reactionary and the bearer of crude prejudices seems certainly and happily false. Falk even claimed that Khomeini would be at the forefront in respect for human rights. What is also encouraging is that his entourage of close advisers is uniformly composed of moderate, progressive individuals, Falk explained.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Once Khomeini was in power, it did not take long for him to show his true face. Dont listen to those who speak of democracy. They all are against Islam, he told seminary students in Qom just six weeks after his return to Iran. They want to take the nation away from its mission. We will break all the poison pens of those who speak of nationalism, democracy, and such things.

India may find common cause on certain issues, but Irans subsequent history is indisputable; no objective observer could say the Islamic Republic was a paradigm of human rights. Those who supported Khomeini and attested to his progressive sensibilities and commitment to democracy look hopelessly naive today.

History now repeats in Bangladesh. The initial press and diplomatic narrative about spontaneous, pro-democracy protests steamrolling to oust Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024 are false, as evidence leaks about external instigation and false flag violence. Sometimes the first draft of history that hotel-bound foreign correspondents write is not reality.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Like Khomeini in the weeks before his seizure of power, Bangladeshs interim leader Mohammad Yunus still speaks about democracy, human rights and justice to visiting diplomats and journalists, but only the most gullible or dishonest among them believe him.

There is ample evidence that the victims of violence in Bangladesh were liberals and intellectuals, not the religious extremists, whom Yunus now releases from prison. In 2015, for example, Bonya Ahmed and her husband, both writers and humanitarian activists, visited Dhaka to speak at the Ekushey Book Fair. Bangladeshi Islamists attacked them with machetes, killing Roy and wounding Ahmed.

Both the Al Qaeda-inspired Ansarullah Bangla Team and Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent claimed responsibility. Over the past year, Yunus has released imprisoned adherents of both terror groups, including Shafiur Rahman Farabi, who was serving a life sentence for Roys murder. The Yunus governments logic? Roy was allegedly disrespectful of Islam.

Today, Yunus rhetoric is at dissonance with reality. He releases from prison those who attack Muslim reformers, liberals, and Bangladeshs small Hindu and Christian minority community and arrests Awami League politicians who defend Bangladeshs diversity. Yunus targeting of journalistslevelling murder charges in response to newspaper criticismwhile releasing men like Farabi who are real murderers.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Yunus failure to treat security seriously could saddle Bangladesh with a permanent Islamic State presence, not only in Dhaka but also in hinterlands along the Burmese border, where malign forces backed by Turkey and Pakistan seek to radicalise Rohingya refugees.

Yunus seeks support for forthcoming elections but bans the Awami League, the nations largest party and the Islamists chief competitor. If he really believed Bangladeshis blamed the Awami League for both the protests and any number of Bangladeshs ills, then he would trust Bangladeshis to favour him and his allies at the ballot box; the fact that he bans the Awami League suggests he has no more intention to allow the Bangladeshis a free choice than Khomeini did with the Iranians.

Critics of the Khomeini analogy may argue that Yunus is not an Islamist like Khomeini was. Fair enough, though not all Islamists wear turbans. In the Iran analogy, Yunus might also be the hapless Mehdi Bazargan, a pro-democracy activist whom Khomeini appointed as his first prime minister, a useful figurehead to distract the West while the Ayatollahs consolidated control. Being a useful idiot is not exculpatory, however.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The international community should not embrace Yunus as a statesman or a man of honour, Nobel Peace Prize notwithstanding. Rather, they should treat him as a fraud, a man who has put his ego above country and his own personal beliefs among democracy. Yunus should be the subject of sanctions, not praise, and should spend his last days in prison, not in the State Guest House living on the taxpayers money.

(Michael Rubin is a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and director of policy analysis at the Middle East Forum. The views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect the views of Firstpost.)
An Israeli raid in the Syrian village of Beit Jin early Friday left 10 people dead, including women and children, according to Syrian state media. The Israel Defense Forces said six of its soldiers were wounded during the operation, which targeted suspected militants accused of planning attacks on Israel.

An Israeli operation in the village of Beit Jin in the Damascus countryside killed 10 people, including women and children, Syrian state media reported, marking the latest Israeli incursion into southern Syria. The Israeli military said six soldiers were wounded  three of them seriously  after troops came under fire from gunmen during an arrest operation early Friday.

The operation comes amid reports that Israel is preparing for possible attacks from Syria, either by Syrian forces or terror operatives.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

According to the Israel Defense Forces, shortly before 3 a.m., soldiers from the 55th Reserve Paratroopers Brigade entered Beit Jinn  around seven kilometres (4.3 miles) east of the Israeli border  to arrest two members of the al-Jamaa al-Islamiyya (Islamic Group) based on recent intelligence suggesting they were planning attacks on Israel.

The number of martyrs from the Israeli aggression  has risen to 10, including women and children, while others remain trapped under the rubble, Syrian state TV reported, saying dozens of families fled the village to nearby areas.

The IDF said troops returned fire and received aerial support from helicopters and drones, while fighter jets carried out several pre-planned strikes.

Israels military said its forces were targeting suspects from the Lebanese Islamist group Jamaa Islamiya. The suspects operated in the area of Beit Jin in southern Syria and advanced terror attacks against Israeli civilians, it said, adding that soldiers responded with fire toward the terrorists, along with aerial assistance.

Local official Abdul Rahman Al-Hamrawi told AFP that Israeli forces raided the village on the foothills of Mount Hermon, triggering clashes. The Israeli occupation army raided Beit Jin to arrest three young men from the village, leading to clashes with residents who tried to resist the Israeli incursion, he said. Following the clashes, the Israeli occupation forces shelled the area with artillery and drones.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Since the fall of Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad in December 2024 and the rise of an Islamist leadership in Damascus, Israel has conducted hundreds of strikes in Syria. Israel also deployed troops into the UN-patrolled buffer zone separating Israeli and Syrian forces on the Golan Heights since 1974.
Three Chinese nationals have been killed in a drone and firearm attack at Afghanistan-Tajikistan border, the Tajik and Chinese authorities have said.

The Tajik and Chinese authorities on Thursday said that three Chinese workers were killed in an attack at the Afghanistan-Tajikistan border.

The Chinese embassy in Tajikistan said the attack was carried out on Wednesday evening in Tajikistans southwestern Khatlon province. It added that one person was also injured in the attack.

Separately, the Tajik foreign ministry said the attack was carried out with firearms and a drone loaded with grenade.

Without naming the Taliban, Tajikistan blamed the Islamist group for the attack.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

In an apparent reference to the Taliban, the foreign ministry said that criminal groups located in the neighbouring country (Afghanistan) continue to commit acts aimed at destabilising the situation in the border regions, according to AFP.

Tajikistan and Taliban, who have run the Afghanistan since 2021, have a strained relationship. The attack has taken place at a time when Pakistan and Talibans relationship has plunged to a new low and the two sides had worst border clashes last month in which dozens were killed and hundreds were injured.

In recent months, Taliban forces have clashed along the Tajik border as well, but those clashes did not make international headlines. In any case, jihadist groups are active in the mountainous border region that spans around 1,350 kilometres (840 miles) between the two countries, according to AFP.

Despite tense relations, Tajikistan has cautiously engaged with the Taliban. Tajik officials have held diplomatic meetings with the Taliban and met the opening of markets in border towns and supplying electricity.

Several Chinese companies operate in Tajikistan, particularly in mining and natural resources extraction. Like in Balochistan where Chinese workers have been targeted, one Chinese worker was killed in a familiar attack.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
In a call with the French presidents diplomatic adviser, Yi said that China and France should firmly support each other on issues involving each others core interests

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi delivers his speech at the opening ceremony of the Lanting Forum in Beijing, China, on Monday. Reuters file

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has urged his French counterpart to stick with Beijing in its diplomatic spat with Japan over Taiwan, telling Emmanuel Bonne that Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi had made provocative remarks related to Taiwan this month.

In a call with the French presidents diplomatic adviser, Yi said that China and France should firmly support each other on issues involving each others core interests. He added, I hope that the French side will continue to firmly abide by the one-China principle.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The conversation between the two diplomats come ahead of French President Emmanuel Macrons upcoming visit to China, where he will hold discussions related to economic and commercial matters.

China goes to UN

China is rallying global partners in its feud with Japan. Apart from speaking with the US and France, Beijing escalated its feud with Japan to the United Nations.

In a letter to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Chinas permanent representative Fu Cong warned that if Japan dares to attempt an armed intervention in the cross-Strait situation, it would be an act of aggression. Fu accused Japan of violating international law after Takaichi suggested earlier this month that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could prompt a military response from Tokyo.

In his letter, Fu said Takaichis comments amounted to a grave violation of international law and warned that China would resolutely exercise its right of self-defence under the UN Charter if Japan interfered in cross-Strait affairs. It is the strongest language Beijing has used since the clash erupted two weeks ago.

Did Trump ask Takaechi to calm down?

US President Donald Trump called Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi this week and advised her not to provoke Beijing on the question of Taiwans sovereignty, the Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday, citing Japanese officials and an American briefed on the call.

Trump spoke with Takaichi after Chinese President Xi Jinping called the US president and spoke about Chinas historic claim to the democratic self-governing island, as well as Washington and Beijings joint responsibility to manage the world order, the Journal said.

Takaichi dialled Trump earlier this week after the US president held a phone call with Xi. This was the first discussion between Takaichi and Trump following a diplomatic spat between Japan and China over Taiwan.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

However, the report was rejected by Japan, saying, The article has a passage that says, on the question of Taiwans sovereignty, (Trump) advised her not to provoke the Chinese government. There is no such fact, Kihara told a regular media briefing, without elaborating.
Guinea-Bissaus military has appointed Major General Horta Inta-a as a transitional president after ousting President Umaro Sissoco Embalo in a coup. He will head the so-called High Military Command for the Restoration of Order with a stated one-year mandate.

Major General Horta Inta-a, the new transitional president, salutes during the swearing-in ceremony of Major-General Tomas Djassi as the new chief of staff of the Armed Forces in Bissau, Guinea-Bissau, on November 27, 2025. (Photo: Delcyo Sanca/Reuters)

Guinea-Bissaus military installed Major-General Horta Inta-a as transitional president on Thursday, a day after soldiers toppled the civilian leadership in a swift power grab made before the results of a weekend election could be announced.

The president who was ousted in the coup, Umaro Sissoco Embalo, arrived in Senegal aboard a special flight following an intervention by the West African regional bloc, Senegals foreign ministry said in a statement late Thursday.

It was the ninth coup in West and Central Africa in five years and continued a pattern of instability in Guinea-Bissau, a notorious cocaine transport hub with a long history of military interventions in politics.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The self-styled High Military Command for the Restoration of Order announced in a televised statement on Wednesday that they had seized power from Embalo. They said the move came in response to a destabilisation plan involving politicians and drug barons, without going into more detail.

Wearing a military uniform and flanked by other military officials, Inta-a made his first public appearance as leader at a ceremony broadcast Thursday on state television. He said the coup was necessary to stave off a plot by narcotraffickers to capture Guinean democracy and said the transition would last one year, beginning immediately.

At a swearing-in ceremony later on Thursday, he named Major-General Tomas Djassi as army chief of staff.

The takeover came a day before provisional results were due to be announced in the race between Embalo and Fernando Dias, a 47-year-old political newcomer who had emerged as Embalos top challenger in the presidential vote.

Before the coup announcement, gunfire rang out in the capital Bissau for about an hour on Wednesday near the electoral commission headquarters and presidential palace.

Embalo called French media to say he had been deposed.

An army statement dated Thursday and published before Senegal announced Embalos evacuation, said Embalo and other top officials were under the control of the High Military Command.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Condemnation of the coup

African Union chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf condemned the coup in a statement and called for the release of Embalo and all detained officials.

Heads of state from the West African regional bloc Ecowas also condemned the coup and later held a virtual meeting to discuss the situation, according to a post on X.

Screen grabs shared with the post showed several regional leaders participating, including the presidents of Nigeria, Senegal and Liberia, as well as the AUs Youssouf.

The European Union said constitutional order should be restored and the vote count allowed to proceed.

Central Bissau was mostly quiet on Thursday, with soldiers on the streets and many residents staying indoors, even after the overnight curfew lifted. Businesses and banks were closed.

Im very concerned about the prevailing situation, Julio Goncalves, a 30-year-old professor and Bissau resident, said.

No pharmacy is open. If somebody is sick how can he buy medicine or go to the hospital?

False coup attempt

Before Inta-as presidency was announced, Dias accused Embalo in a video statement of staging a false coup attempt to derail the election because he feared he would lose.

In a statement to Reuters on Thursday, the coalition backing Dias demanded that authorities be allowed to release results from Sundays presidential election.

The coalition also called for the release of former Prime Minister Domingos Simoes Pereira, who was detained on Wednesday, according to relatives and security sources.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Security forces used tear gas to break up a small protest outside the building where Pereira is said to be held. They also broke up a gathering near Diass home on the outskirts of Bissau and live rounds were fired, witnesses said.

There were no reports of casualties related to the violence on Wednesday or Thursday.

Coup-prone narcotics hub

Guinea-Bissau is a small coastal nation between Senegal and Guinea and a transit point for cocaine heading from South America to Europe. Under Embalos administration, the cocaine trade appeared to boom.

Another coup is unlikely to change that, said Lucia Bird Ruiz-Benitez de Lugo, director of the Observatory of Illicit Economies in West Africa, which tracks the cocaine trade.

Major traffickers financed electoral campaigns in these elections. There is no sign the impact of cocaine on politics and governance in Bissau will decrease, she said.

The country had been shaken by at least nine coups and attempted coups between 1974, when it gained independence from Portugal, and 2020, when Embalo took office.

Election observers unaccounted for

Election observers from the African Union and ECOWAS issued a joint statement on Wednesday calling for the immediate release of arrested election officials.

Nigerian former President Goodluck Jonathan, who had been observing the vote as part of the West African Elders Forum, was not reachable on Thursday and his whereabouts unknown, ECOWAS spokesperson Joel Ahofodji told Reuters.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Nigerias foreign ministry said the safety of election observers should be guaranteed. We warn that those behind this act will be held accountable for their actions, a statement said.

(This is an agency story. Except for the headline, the story has not been edited by Firstpost staff.)
Several Baul supporters were attacked by members of the Islamist group Towhidi Janata in Bangladesh, amid rising violence against minorities and Hindus. The attacks occurred during protest rallies in Manikganj and Thakurgaon

Almost ten months after Sheikh Hasina's ouster, Bangladesh continues to be marred by instability, protests, and lawlessness. Representational image: REUTERS

Amid rising violence against minorities and Hindus in Bangladesh, several Baul supporters were attacked by members of an Islamist group known as Towhidi Janata, which has previously been linked to assaults on Hindus and other minority communities, as well as the demolition of Sheikh Mujibur Rahmans sculpture in January.

According to the Dhaka Tribune, Baul supporters had organised protest rallies in Manikganj and Thakurgaon to condemn recent attacks on Baul performers and to demand the release of Baul leader Abul Sarkar, who was detained for allegedly hurting religious sentiments during a folk performance.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

When Baul supporters arrived near the court premises in Thakurgaon on Wednesday, they were confronted by Towhidi Janata members, sparking a clash that left two people injured. Additional police personnel were deployed to restore order.

The incident came days after another attack on Baul supporters in Manikganj on November 23. Several political parties and human rights organisations have since demanded the arrest of those involved and called for Abul Sarkars release.

The disorder being carried out in the name of Tawhidi Janata is not part of the Prophets Sunnah, Baul supporter Sohel Rana told the Dhaka Tribune. Responding to this, Towhidi Janata member Al-Amin said, If someone speaks against Allah, we will respond. Those who try to destroy Islam in my country will not be allowed to do so.

Bangladesh Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus press secretary, Shafiqul Alam, said instructions have been issued to arrest those involved in the attacks in Manikganj and Thakurgaon, Prothom Alo reported.

The radical Islamist group has been implicated in several attacks on the Hindu community. It has repeatedly disrupted Durga Puja celebrations and engaged in violent clashes with police, resulting in multiple casualties.

Following the anti-government riots last year that led to Sheikh Hasinas ouster, the group was believed to have attacked several shrines across the country. Towhidi Janata also vandalised a sculpture of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in front of the Sylhet Deputy Commissioners office in January.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The group is affiliated with Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh, another Islamist organisation that protested Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to Bangladesh in 2021. Protesters waved their shoes as a sign of disrespect, triggering violent clashes with the Awami League that left four people dead. The ousted Awami League had previously alleged that Hefazat acts as a front for Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami.
Chinas Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Friday urged the United Kingdom to uphold the One-China principle, amid Beijings sharp diplomatic tensions with Tokyo over Taiwan

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi attends a press conference with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul (not pictured) in Berlin, Germany, on July 3, 2025. Reuters File

+ Follow us On Google

Chinas Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Friday urged the United Kingdom to uphold the One-China principle, amid Beijings sharp diplomatic tensions with Tokyo over Taiwan.

The One-China principle asserts that both sides of the Taiwan Strait belong to a single country, a position rejected by Taipeis government.

During a meeting in Beijing with Britains National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell Wang stressed the importance of maintaining strategic communication and enhancing necessary coordination between China and the UK.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The two officials also discussed the situation in Ukraine, according to a Chinese ministry readout.

With inputs from agencies
The death toll from flash floods and landslides on Indonesias Sumatra island rose to 164 on Friday with 79 people missing, authorities said, as rescue workers found their efforts hampered by damaged bridges and roads and a lack of heavy equipment.

This aerial picture shows a truck and a car trapped in muds from flash floods on a main road connecting Aceh and North Sumatra in Meureudu, Pidie Jaya district Indonesia's Aceh province on November 28, 2025. Image- AFP

The death toll from floods and landslides on Indonesias western island of Sumatra has climbed to 174, a disaster official said on Friday, with around 80 people still unaccounted for.

Torrential monsoon rains caused rivers in North Sumatra province to overflow on Tuesday, sending water surging through mountainside villages, sweeping people away and inundating more than 3,200 homes and buildings, according to the National Disaster Management Agency. Around 3,000 displaced families have taken refuge in government shelters.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Fatalities in North Sumatra have risen to 116, while 25 people have been confirmed dead in Aceh. Rescuers have also recovered 23 bodies in West Sumatra, National Disaster Mitigation Agency chief Suharyanto said.

Across parts of Aceh and West Sumatra provinces, thousands of homes were flooded  many submerged up to their roofs, the agency added.

West Sumatras disaster mitigation agency reported the flooding submerged more than 17,000 homes, forcing about 23,000 residents to flee to temporary shelters. Rice fields, livestock and public facilities were also destroyed and bridges and roads cut off by floods and landslides isolated residents.

In Aceh province, authorities struggled to bring excavators and other heavy equipment over washed-out roads after torrential rains sent mud and rocks crashing onto hilly hamlets.

The extreme weather was driven by tropical cyclone Senyar, which formed in the Strait of Malacca, said Achadi Subarkah Raharjo at Indonesias Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysical Agency.

He warned that unstable atmospheric conditions mean extreme weather could persist as long as the cyclone system remains active.

We have extended its extreme weather warning due to strong water vapor supply and shifting atmospheric dynamics, Raharjo said.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Senyar intensified rainfall, strong winds, and high waves in Aceh, North Sumatra, West Sumatra, Riau, and nearby areas before dissipating. Its prolonged downpours left steep, saturated terrain highly vulnerable to disasters, he said.

Seasonal rains frequently cause flooding and landslides in Indonesia, an archipelago of 17,000 islands where millions of people live in mountainous areas or near fertile flood plains.

With inputs from agencies
Bangladesh Nationalist Party chairperson and former prime minister Khaleda Zias health condition is extremely critical. The 80-year-old former premier was admitted to a hospital on Sunday night when she developed a chest infection that affected both her heart and lungs.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairperson and former prime minister Khaleda Zias health condition has become extremely critical, a senior party leader said on Friday.

The 80-year-old former premier was taken to hospital on Sunday night after developing a chest infection that impacted both her heart and lungs.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, quoted by the state-run BSS news agency said doctors informed them on Thursday night that her condition had reached an extremely serious stage.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The BNP held special prayers after Friday prayers seeking her quick recovery.

We have requested prayers across the country after Jummah for the recovery of the Mother of Democracy, Begum Khaleda Zia. We hope she recovers and returns to the people to continue her work for the country, Fakhrul said.

Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has expressed deep concern about the BNP leaders health and urged the public to pray for her early recovery, his office said in a statement.

It added that Yunus has been receiving regular updates on Zias condition and has instructed officials to ensure all necessary medical support is provided.

It said the chief adviser has been regularly inquiring about updates of Zias health progress and has instructed all concerned to ensure every form of necessary treatment support.

There must not be any shortcomings in Begum Khaleda Zias treatment. The government is prepared to provide all necessary support, Yunus said.

At this crucial moment of democratic transition, Begum Khaleda Zia is a profound source of inspiration for the nation. Her good health is extremely important for the country, he added.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Zia, the wife of slain Bangladesh president Zia-ur Rahman, has been suffering from multiple health complications, including liver and kidney issues, diabetes, arthritis, and eye-related illnesses.

Her only son and BNPs acting chairman, Tarique Rahman, has been living in London since 2008. Her other son, Arafat Rahman, died of a cardiac arrest in 2025.

BNP has emerged as the frontrunner in Bangladeshs changed political landscape after a student-led violent street protest toppled then-prime minister Sheikh Hasinas Awami League government on August 5, 2024.

Earlier in the year, Zia returned to the country from London on May 6 after spending four months for advanced medical treatment.

With inputs from agencies
France has some of the worst prison overcrowding in Europe, and staff unions have complained the state is neglecting normal jails as it moves narco criminals into new supermax prisons

France on Friday caught one of two detainees who used bed sheets to escape from prison a day earlier after sawing through the bars of their cell, a prosecutor said.

The man was arrested south of Dijon, where the jailbreak occurred, said the eastern citys prosecutor, Olivier Caracotch.He said the person caught was thought to be the older of the pair, a 32-year-old man accused of violence against a partner.That would mean a 19-year-old suspected of attempted murder was still on the run.

Interior Minister Laurent Nunez congratulated police for having nabbed one of the two individuals who escaped yesterday from the Dijon detention centre, in a message on X.

Guards noticed the two men had fled on Thursday before dawn.

The 32-year-old man had left a message in his cell, saying he had been held for too long, the prosecutor has said. It was not immediately clear for how long he had been held.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

France has some of the worst prison overcrowding in Europe, and staff unions have complained the state is neglecting normal jails as it moves narco criminals into new supermax prisons.

Dijon prison, built in 1853, is in poor condition, with 311 inmates for 180 places, according to the justice ministry.

The jailbreak comes after thieves broke into the Louvre museum in Paris in broad daylight last month, making off with priceless imperial jewels.

The investigation is ongoing, with several people arrested and charged in the case.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Firstpost staff.)
Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem on Friday warned that the group reserves the right to retaliate for Israels recent killing of its top military commander, signalling that a new conflict with Israel remains a possibility

Lebanons Hezbollah Chief Naim Qassem gives a televised speech from an unknown location, on July 30, 2025 in this screen grab from video. Reuters

Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem on Friday warned that the group reserves the right to retaliate for Israels recent killing of its top military commander, signalling that a new conflict with Israel remains a possibility.

According to a Reuters report, in a televised address, Qassem spoke as concerns mounted in Lebanon over a potential escalation by Israel, which analysts fear may intensify its bombardment to pressure Hezbollah into surrendering its nationwide arsenal  a demand the group has consistently rejected.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The tensions follow Israels November 23 strike on Beiruts southern suburbs, which killed senior Hezbollah commander Haytham Ali Tabtabai. The assassination has heightened fears of a broader confrontation.

Qassem said Hezbollah would set the timing for any response, adding that Israeli threats of a wider air campaign have no impact on the group.

He noted that while war was not inevitable, it remained a real possibility.

Do you expect a war later? Its possible sometime. Yes, this possibility is there, and the possibility of no war is also there, Qassem was quoted as saying.

Qassem did not specify how Hezbollah would position itself in the event of a new war but said Lebanon should be ready with a national strategy to confront Israel built on its army and its people.

He also expressed hope that Pope Leos upcoming visit to Lebanon will play a role in bringing about peace and ending the (Israeli) aggression.

Lebanon continues to face mounting pressure from both Israel and the United States to accelerate efforts to disarm Hezbollah and other armed groups.

Minutes after Qassems address, Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee criticised the Lebanese armys attempts to confiscate Hezbollahs weapons in the south as inadequate.

Hezbollah continues to manipulate them and work covertly to maintain its arsenal, Adraee said in a post on X.

Hezbollah, however, has repeatedly insisted it will not give up its weapons as long as Israel maintains its strikes on Lebanese territory and continues to occupy five disputed points in the countrys south.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

With inputs from agencies
Imran Khans sister, Noreen Niazi, has accused Pakistani authorities of keeping the former prime minister in harsh and isolated conditions, saying the family has been denied access for weeks and has no idea whats happening inside the jail.

Imran Khans sister, Noreen Niazi, has sharply criticised Pakistani authorities over the former prime ministers treatment in prison, saying his family has been kept completely in the dark and that no one knows whats happening inside the jail.

Speaking to ANI about her last meeting with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder, she said, He is going through a tough time alone. He is in isolation. As per the jail manual, one cant be placed in isolation for more than four days. But he was kept in isolation for three weeks last year as well, during which electricity was switched off and he wasnt even allowed to read books. The same has been done now.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

#WATCH | Lahore, Pakistan | On her last meeting with PTI Founder and former Pakistan PM Imran Khan's health, his sister, Noreen Niazi, says, "... He is going through a tough time alone. He is in isolation... As per the jail manual, one can't be placed in isolation for more than 4 https://t.co/MFSGSSNGQt pic.twitter.com/e95jsgfuq3  ANI (@ANI) November 27, 2025

Her comments come as rumours about Khans health grow amid a month-long blackout on family and legal access. We dont know anything. They are not telling us anything, nor are they letting anybody meet him, she said, adding that even party leaders with scheduled appointments have been denied entry. We have not been allowed to meet him for the last four weeks. The police have been ordered to stop us and, I believe, also given permission to do whatever they want. This has never happened in Pakistan before.

Niazi described the treatment of supporters and family members outside Adiala Jail as unprecedented. No one has ever disrespected women like this, nor has anyone been oppressed this way. This is the first time in Pakistan that people have been allowed to beat up others without any consequences, without caring if it is a child, an elderly person or a woman. The world is aware of whats happening in Pakistan.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

She said Pakistan had entered its darkest period, comparing the situation to Hitler-era-like repression. According to her, people are being killed, beaten, and jailed without accountability. She argued that the continued ban on meetings is deliberate. We have been going there for the last four weeks, and they are not letting us meet him. This is why such rumours are spreading.

Public frustration, she warned, is nearing a tipping point. I believe there will be a spark among people soon, and then they will see the level to which the people go. The oppression is too much.

Her remarks come as PTI leaders, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, continue to be denied access to Khan, who has been held since August 2023. While Adiala Jail officials claim he is in completely good health, the lack of transparency has only intensified demands for a clear and verifiable update on his condition.
Police detained two company directors and an engineer after investigators linked unsafe renovation materials to the fire that killed at least 128 people

Smoke rises from apartments after a major fire swept through several blocks at the Wang Fuk Court residential estate in Hong Kong's Tai Po district on November 27 (AFP)

Hong Kong police have arrested three people on suspicion of manslaughter after a catastrophic fire tore through a high-rise housing complex, killing at least 128 residents and leaving scores unaccounted for.

The arreststwo directors of the renovation contractor and an engineering consultantare the first major step in an expanding criminal investigation into one of the citys deadliest fires in decades.

Police said the three suspects are believed to be linked to the renovation project underway at the Tai Po complex, where flammable materials may have accelerated the spread of the blaze. We have reason to believe that the company responsible for the works was grossly negligent, a senior police official told Reuters, adding that investigators were examining whether nonfire-resistant materials had been used on the building exterior.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The fire broke out on Tuesday morning at Wang Fuk Court, a cluster of 32-storey residential towers wrapped in bamboo scaffolding and green safety netting for ongoing repairs. Within minutes, flames engulfed multiple blocks, sending plumes of black smoke across the district and forcing residents to flee down darkened stairwells.

More than 200 people are still reported missing, as per authorities. We will make forcible entry to every unit in the affected towers to ensure no one is left behind, said Derek Chan, deputy director of the Fire Services Department. This is one of the most complex and dangerous operations weve undertaken in recent years.

Families of the missing were seen waited anxiously outside makeshift relief centres, some clutching mobile phones displaying photos of loved ones. One woman, identifying herself as Wong, said she had not heard from her father since the fire broke out. Maybe one of the photos is him were still waiting, she told Reuters.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the plastic foam boards and other flammable construction materials attached to the building facades may have acted as fuel. Fire experts said the combination of bamboo scaffolding and wind conditions likely created a chimney effect, pushing flames rapidly upward.

City officials acknowledged mounting public anger as questions grew about oversight failures and lax safety checks. We owe the public a complete explanation, a government spokesperson said. This tragedy should never have happened.

As rescue teams near the final stages of their search, Hong Kong is bracing for a far-reaching inquiry, one that may reshape the citys construction and building-safety regulations for years to come.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
Europe is advancing a military-grade system of systems in space, pooling national satellites to build a secure surveillance and intelligence network to boost defence autonomy amid rising geopolitical threats.

European nations are now seeking to pool their national space assets to build a new, military-grade surveillance and communications network, a system of systems designed to deliver integrated, secure space-based intelligence and defence capabilities. This strategic shift reflects growing concern over global geopolitical instability and a drive for European autonomy in security and defence.

European nations agree 30% boost in space budget

European nations agreed on Thursday to increase spending on space over the next three years by about 30% to 22.1 billion euros, part of an effort to try to catch up to the US, China and private firms zooming ahead in the space race.

The European Space Agency had asked its 23 nations to provide some 22 billion euros to fund launches, satellites and other research programmes for the next three years, up from 16.9 billion in 2023-2025.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Pooling space assets for collective defence

According to a recent report in the Financial Times, the European project aims to fund and deploy a constellation of satellites and support systems, operated collectively by participating nations. Rather than each country working separately, Europe intends to integrate reconnaissance, communications, and surveillance satellites into a unified network, enabling real-time intelligence sharing, secure communications, and coordinated monitoring of terrestrial and maritime zones.

The idea is to shift from fragmented national programmes to a collective, interoperable architecture, a system of systems that leverages the strengths of each national space asset, while minimising duplication and maximising resilience in the face of threats.

Why Europe sees this as necessary now

The push comes amid rising concern over the shifting global security landscape, including great-power competition, conflicts involving space-enabled intelligence, and mounting cyber and hybrid threats. European defence officials argue that a coordinated space network would give the bloc greater strategic autonomy, reducing reliance on third-party providers or alliances for critical space-based intelligence and communication capabilities.

Moreover, the initiative aligns with the wider European Space Agency (ESA)backed strategy under EU Space Programme and the broader European security architecture, which articulate the need for cooperation in space to safeguard sovereignty, support defence readiness, and bolster Europes position on the global stage.

Surveillance, communications and resilience

The proposed network would include surveillance satellites capable of Earth observation, infrared detection, signals intelligence, and maritime/domain awareness. Complementing these would be secure communications satellites and ground infrastructure to enable encrypted data-sharing across borders. This layered capability would provide participating countries with timely intelligence on troop movements, missile launches, territorial infringements, and other security threats.

By pooling resources, Europe hopes to achieve greater coverage area, redundancy, and faster responsiveness than any single national programme could. The integrated system also aims to enhance resilience even if one satellite or ground node is compromised, the network as a whole would remain operational, ensuring continuity of surveillance and communication.

Strategic and geopolitical implications

If implemented, the system would mark a major step toward European strategic independence, reducing reliance on external intelligence frameworks or non-European alliances. It could strengthen Europes negotiating position on the global stage and allow it to act more autonomously in crisis situations.

For member states, the network offers cost-sharing benefits and efficient use of existing technological infrastructure. The pooling of national assets avoids unnecessary duplication and the shared cost model lowers the financial burden on any single country.

Challenges ahead: Integration, sovereignty and governance

Despite its promise, the plan faces significant challenges. Integrating satellite systems from multiple countries entails complex technical, logistical, and security coordination. Participating nations must also navigate issues of data sovereignty, command-and-control protocols, and trust, sharing potentially sensitive intelligence across national boundaries.

There are concerns about governance: who controls the data, who makes decisions in a crisis, and how to reconcile differing national policies on defence, privacy and international law. Ensuring that the system remains transparent, accountable and acceptable to all stakeholders will be critical.

With plans for a Europe-wide space-based surveillance and communications network, European nations are signalling a move toward collective, sovereign defence capabilities. The proposed system of systems could offer shared security, cost-efficiency and strategic autonomy but successfully navigating integration, governance and trust will determine whether the vision becomes a reality.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
Amid rising concerns over Imran Khans health and questions about his whereabouts, sources in his party, Pakistan Tehrik-i-Insaf (PTI), have told CNN-News 18 that the former Prime Minister of Pakistan has been tortured in Adiala jail and kept in near-complete isolation.

Supporters of the former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan's party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), carry a cutout of him, as they gather, to protest what they call a black day and a stolen mandate in last year's general election, during a rally in Swabi, Pakistan on February 8, 2025. Reuters File

Amid rising concerns over Imran Khans health and questions about his whereabouts, sources in his party, Pakistan Tehrik-i-Insaf (PTI), have told CNN-News 18 that the former Prime Minister of Pakistan has been tortured in Rawalpindis Adiala jail and kept in near-complete isolation.

For days, family and party leaders have said they have been barred from meeting Khan. Rumours of Khans death have also been swirling on social media.

PTI insiders have said that Imran has been beaten and subjected to high-intensity confinement.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Separately, Imrans former aide, Zulfi Bukhari, has said that Imran has not been seen no one had seen Imran since November 4, and no reason has been provided for denying meetings, according to Dawn.

They wont be able to stop us: Imrans sister amid fears for Imrans health

Imrans sister Aleema Khanum told CNN-News 18 that Pakistani regime would not be able to stop the party and the people when they would rise against them.

While Khanum said that something was definitely wrong, she rejected the idea of the regime killing Imran in prison.

Khanum said, They wouldnt [kill Imran in jail]. People would turn on them. People will not spare themand they wont find a flight out of the country."

Khanum further said, Why arent they letting us meet him? Why create this attention? It would be so simple if they allowed him to meet his family and party workersIt is only a matter of time before the anger among Pakistani citizens over the treatment of former prime minister Imran Khan spilled onto the streets.

Khanum said that mass protests were only a matter of time.

Its [street demonstrations] are going to happen. Its not a matter of if but when. And its all leading toward the same thingAnd when the agitations begin, they wont be able to stop them," Khanum said.

Separately, sources told CNN-News 18 that Imrans physical condition is not great and the deterioration is happening slowly. They said the reason for worsening health is sustained pressure, harsh treatment, and restricted communication.

Earlier Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, who is from PTI, was routinely allowed to meet Imran, but sources sources have said that those meetings created the ruse that Imrans health was right. Now even Afridi has been barred from meeting Imran.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Imrans sister files petition in court

Aleema Khan, Imrans other sister, has filed a contempt of court petition against Adiala jails superintendent and others over their failure to comply with an earlier Islamabad High Court (IHC) order that mandated a twice-a-week meeting schedule for Imran, according to Dawn.

The petition came after Khyber Pakhtunkhwa CM Afridi and others staged an overnight protest after they were denied weekly meetings with Imran for the eighth time in a row.

Aleema said in the petition that she wa remained deeply concerned about the well-being, legal rights, and humane treatment of her brother during his ongoing incarceration.
India and Indonesia on Thursday reviewed their defence partnership during the third Defence Ministers Dialogue in New Delhi, where Rajnath Singh and his Indonesian counterpart Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin discussed ways to deepen military and strategic cooperation.

India and Indonesia reviewed their defence cooperation during the third Defence Ministers Dialogue held in New Delhi on Thursday, where Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin to explore ways to deepen strategic and military ties.

Although the official statement did not refer to BrahMos, senior officials familiar with the discussions indicated fresh progress on the potential export of the missile system to Indonesia.

During the meeting, Rajnath Singh presented a model of the BrahMos missile to the visiting ministeran overt signal of growing defence alignment between the two countries.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Indonesia has maintained strong interest in acquiring BrahMos, especially to bolster maritime security in the Malacca Strait, the Natuna region and the broader Indo-Pacific. Previous talks have included proposals for phased procurement, long-term maintenance support and training modules for Indonesian forces.

Officials now say negotiations have reached an advanced stage, with a formal announcement expected in the near future. The possible deal is also being viewed through the lens of deeper defence industrial collaboration, as Jakarta considers technology partnerships and maintenance infrastructure opportunities in India.

Both sides are working to streamline procurement processes through a proposed joint committee that would address certification requirements, supply chain access and co-development mechanisms.

Beyond the missile discussions, the meeting focused on expanding military engagementsjoint exercises, professional training programmes and enhanced maritime security cooperation. Cyber security, intelligence sharing and maritime domain awareness in the Indian Ocean were identified as key priorities.

According to the Defence Ministry, both ministers expressed satisfaction with the dialogues progress and underscored the need to continue high-level exchanges and practical collaboration to support peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.

Earlier this year, Indonesia sent a 352-member contingent to participate in Indias Republic Day parade, reflecting the growing momentum in bilateral defence ties. If the BrahMos deal is finalised, Indonesia will become the second overseas operator of the missile after the Philippinesanother milestone in Indias emergence as a major defence exporter.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

New Delhi also announced that the Indian Armys Remount Veterinary Corps will gift horses and a ceremonial carriage to Indonesia.
Indias government is considering guaranteeing Canada ongoing pulse crop sales so its farmers keep growing the vital protein source, Indian High Commissioner to Canada Dinesh Patnaik said during a visit to Saskatchewan.

India is weighing the option of providing Canada with assured access to its pulse market so that Canadian farmers continue producing the key protein crop, Indian High Commissioner to Canada Dinesh Patnaik said during a visit to Saskatchewan.

The move comes as Prime Minister Mark Carneys government and India begin to rebuild diplomatic ties, with both countries leaders agreeing to resume negotiations for a comprehensive trade agreement.

Canada remains a major global supplier of lentils to India, competing closely with Australia for the top position. It also ranks among the leading exporters of peas, alongside Russia. India recently introduced a 30% import duty on all yellow peas, effective November 1, following pressure from domestic growers.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Patnaik said Ottawa and New Delhi are now exploring options whether we can have a quota, whether we can have a lesser tariff, whether we can have a different system of how we can make sure that in the long run pulses from Canada go regularly to India, speaking after his tour of the Agribition farm show on Thursday.

Growers at the event warned they may abandon pea cultivation in 2026 because of Chinas 100% tariff on Canadian peas and Indias new duties. Those two markets, along with the U.S., are the biggest destinations for Canadas pea exports, and many farmers said the current tariff structure makes the crop financially unviable, prompting them to consider shifting to other crops.

Patnaik said India would always need to have foreign sources of pulse crops for the long run, even if it has years of domestic surplus. India does not want to see Canadian farmers permanently back away from growing the crop, he said. Import restrictions are used to raise domestic prices to help Indian farmers, he said.

Canadas agriculture and international affairs ministries did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

India has a long term strategy of becoming self-sufficient in pulse crop production, but many analysts are sceptical it can achieve that goal.

With inputs from agencies
Flash floods and landslides triggered by days of heavy monsoon rain have devastated parts of Indonesias Sumatra island, killing 69 people and leaving 59 missing as rescuers continue searching through mud-filled villages and swollen rivers.

Flash floods and landslides on Indonesias Sumatra island have killed 69 people, while 59 others remain missing as emergency teams search rivers and destroyed villages for bodies and possible survivors.

A week of monsoon rains caused rivers to overflow in North Sumatra province on Tuesday. The surging waters swept through mountainside villages, carried people away, and submerged more than 2,000 homes and buildings, according to the National Disaster Management Agency. Nearly 5,000 residents were forced to take shelter in government camps.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Television footage showed rescue teams using jackhammers, circular saws, farm tools and even their bare hands to dig through thick mud, rocks and uprooted trees. Rubber-boat teams searched rivers and helped evacuate children and elderly residents stranded on rooftops.

In North Sumatra, the death toll rose to 37 on Thursday after more bodies were recovered, provincial police spokesperson Ferry Walintukan said. Rescuers were still looking for 52 missing residents, but mudslides, power outages and a lack of telecommunications were slowing the operation.

With many missing and some remote areas still unreachable, the death toll was likely to rise, Walintukan said.

Seventeen bodies were recovered in South Tapanuli district and eight in Sibolga city. In Central Tapanuli district, landslides struck several homes, killing at least a family of four, and another person died in floods in Padang Sidempuan city.

Rescuers also found two bodies in Pakpak Bharat district and were searching for five people missing in Humbang Hasundutan, where four villagers were killed in landslides, Walintukan said. One resident died when mud and debris hit a main road on the small Nias island, he added.

Flooding was also reported across other parts of the archipelago, including Aceh and West Sumatra, where thousands of houses were inundatedmany up to their roofsaccording to the national disaster agency.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

By Thursday, at least nine bodies had been recovered after torrential rains triggered landslides in three villages in Central Aceh on Wednesday, district chief Halili Yoga said, urging local authorities to deploy an excavator to retrieve at least two people buried under mud.

Acehs Disaster Mitigation Agency said nearly 47,000 people had been displaced by the floods, with around 1,500 taking shelter in temporary camps.

In West Sumatra, thousands of homes were submerged, including more than 3,300 in Padang Pariaman district, forcing roughly 12,000 residents into temporary shelters, the local disaster mitigation agency reported.
According to the IDF, the surrender procedure lasted several hours, during which the men exited the building after an engineering vehicle was deployed

An Israeli security forces member loads a tear gas launcher as they block Palestinians from reaching their land to harvest olives in the occupied West Bank village of Kobar, near Ramallah, on October 18, 2025.- AFP/Representational image

Israeli authorities are investigating an incident in Jenin, located in the occupied West Bank, where soldiers shot two men following what the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) described as a surrender procedure, according to a joint statement issued by a military spokesperson and Israel Police.

The Palestinian Authority confirmed the deaths, with the West Banks General Authority for Civil Affairs identifying the victims as 26-year-old Al-Muntasir Mahmoud Qassem Abdullah and 37-year-old Youssef Ali Youssef Asasa.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The Palestinian Authority condemned the shooting, calling it a fully-fledged war crime and a flagrant violation of all international laws, conventions, norms, and humanitarian values.

The IDF said the two men were wanted for alleged terror activities. In a joint statement with Israel Police, the military said its forces, working alongside border police, had sought to arrest two individuals who belonged to a terrorist organisation operating in Jenin, accusing them of throwing explosives and firing at security personnel.

According to the IDF, the surrender procedure lasted several hours, during which the men exited the building after an engineering vehicle was deployed. After they exited the building, gunfire was carried out at the wanted individuals, the statement said.

Video footage circulating on social media appears to show the men leaving the building with their hands raised above their heads in a gesture of surrender, surrounded by Israeli soldiers. Later in the video, the two men are seen lying on the ground in front of the buildings entrance as multiple rounds of gunfire are heard. At least one body is visible on the ground.

The incident is currently under investigation by field commanders and will be transferred for review by the relevant authorities, the IDF statement added.

The shooting occurred amid a large-scale Israeli military operation across the West Bank on Wednesday, during which forces searched more than 220 sites, questioned dozens of individuals, and arrested several people wanted by authorities, according to an earlier IDF statement.

Israels far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir praised the military and police for their actions in Jenin. I fully back the Border Police fighters and IDF soldiers who fired at wanted terrorists who came out of a building in Jenin. The fighters acted exactly as expected of them - terrorists must die!, he wrote on social media.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
In a statement posted on X, Jordans Foreign Ministry said it would take all available measures to halt the continued recruitment of Jordanians and urged Moscow to cancel the contracts of those already serving

Ukrainian servicemen carry a bag containing the body of a Ukrainian soldier as one of them, right, carries the remains of a body of a Russian soldier in a retaken area near the border with Russia in the Kharkiv region if Ukraine. (Photo: AP)

Jordan has asked Russia to stop illegally recruiting its citizens to fight in the Ukraine war after two of the countrys men died on the battlefield.

Jordans Foreign Ministry on Thursday issued a warning against Russia and other foreign entities hiring its citizens online on behalf of Moscow.

In a statement posted on X, Jordans Foreign Ministry said it would take all available measures to halt the continued recruitment of Jordanians and urged Moscow to cancel the contracts of those already serving.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

It added that such recruitment violates Jordanian law as well as international law and endangers the lives of [its] citizens.

Ukraine claims that Russia has enlisted more than 18,000 foreign fighters from 128 countries, based on data provided by Brigadier General Dmytro Usov. He added in a Telegram post that an additional 3,388 foreign fighters have been killed while serving for Moscow.

Earlier this month, South Africa said it would probe how its citizens ended up as mercenaries in the Russia-Ukraine war after the men sent a distress call, urging the government to bring them back home.

The South African government said in a statement that as many as 17 men were lured into fighting in the war on the pretext of lucrative jobs. This phenomenon is not new to India, as several men continue to remain trapped in Ukraine as a result of being duped by Russian agents.

Indias Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has said it has raised the issue of Indian nationals being recruited into the Russian army and urged Moscow to stop the practice amid the ongoing war with Ukraine.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the government has repeatedly warned citizens about the risks and dangers of joining the Russian military.
Carney has warned that Canadas dependence on the US as its near-exclusive energy customer puts the country at a disadvantage

Canadas former central bankerturnedPM Mark Carney is facing mounting scrutiny as he pushes ahead with an ambitious plan to back a multibillion-dollar oil pipeline aimed at expanding exports to Asian markets.

The initiative emerged publicly after Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith signed a framework agreement aimed at expanding Canadas oil export routes beyond the United States. Speaking at the signing, Carney spoke about the strategic stakes of the project.

At the core of the agreement, of course, is a priority to have a pipeline to Asia, he said, arguing that Canada must secure diversified markets for its energy sector.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Carney has warned that Canadas dependence on the US as its near-exclusive energy customer puts the country at a disadvantage. Over 95% of all our energy exports went to the States. This tight interdependenceonce a strengthis now a weakness, he told The Washington Post.

Those statements reveal the heart of Carneys rationale: Canada needs leverage, diversification and long-term revenue, and he believes oil exports to Asia remain a necessary bridge during the global energy transition.

But critics argue the move sacrifices the environmental credibility he spent a decade cultivating on the world stage.

Environmental advocates said Carneys pro-pipeline stance undermines his leadership in sustainable finance and climate-risk disclosure.

Economists, meanwhile, are divided.

Some say the project could unlock billions in export capacity and strengthen Canadas geopolitical positioning in energy markets. Others warn that tightening global climate policies could shorten the economic lifespan of new oil infrastructure.

Politically, the risk is significant.

Carney has been viewed as a champion of decarbonisation; now he is advocating a project that environmentalists equate with backsliding. Opponents accuse him of prioritising provincial alliances over climate commitments. His supporters insist the approach is pragmatic, not ideological.

Carney, for his part, maintains that expanding oil export routes is compatible with accelerating climate action, arguing that Canada needs fiscal and strategic stability to fund its green transition.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

For now, the question is whether Carney is making a bold strategic calculation, or burning political capital that will be difficult to recover?
The Afghan man accused of shooting two National Guard members will face first-degree murder charges for an attack that prompted President Donald Trump to declare he would freeze migration from Third World Countries to the US.

US President Donald Trump participates in a video call with military service members from his Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Florida, on November 27, 2025, during the Thanksgiving holiday. Image- AFP

A US official on Friday said an Afghan national accused of shooting two members of the National Guard will now face a first-degree murder charge, after one of the soldiers succumbed to her injuries. The development came as Donald Trump reiterated his vow to halt migration from what he called third world countries.

The upgraded charge intensifies the case against the suspect, identified as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, who US media have reported previously served in the Zero Units, a CIA-supported Afghan paramilitary group.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Jeanine Pirro, Washington DCs attorney, told the Fox News programme Fox & Friends that prosecutors were moving from assault charges to first-degree murder. There are certainly many more charges to come, but we are upgrading the initial charges of assault to murder in the first degree, she said.

Calling the attack premeditated, Pirro added: It is a premeditated murder. There was an ambush with a gun toward people who didnt know what was coming.

Pirros announcement comes after Attorney General Pam Bondi pledged on Thursday to seek the death penalty against Lakanwal, describing him as a monster."

Pirro said Lakanwal opened fire with a .357 Smith and Wesson revolver on a group of guardsmen on patrol just a few blocks from the White House on Wednesday, the eve of the Thanksgiving holiday.

Sarah Beckstrom, a 20-year-old West Virginia National Guard member deployed in the US capital as part of Trumps crackdown on crime, died from her wounds, the president said on Thursday.

He said the other soldier wounded in the attack, 24-year-old Andrew Wolfe, was fighting for his life."

We still have hope, Pirro said of Wolfe.

Hes still in critical condition. We are doing everything we can to assist his family."

The shooting has brought together three politically explosive issues: Trumps controversial use of the military on American soil, immigration, and the lingering legacy of the 20-year conflict in Afghanistan  Americas longest war.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Rigorous re-examination 

On late Thursday, Trump pledged on Truth Social to permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries and threatened to reverse millions of admissions granted under his predecessor Joe Biden, in a new escalation in his anti-immigration stance.

When asked which specific nationalities would be affected, the US Department of Homeland Security, pointed AFP to a list of 19 countries  including Afghanistan, Cuba, Haiti, Iran and Myanmar  facing US travel restrictions under a previous order from Trump in June.

Separately, Joseph Edlow, Trumps director of US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), said on Thursday he had ordered a full-scale, rigorous re-examination of every Green Card for every alien from every country of concern."

When asked to specify the countries, the USCIS referred AFP to the same list of 19 countries.

More than 1.6 million US green card holders, roughly 12 percent of the total permanent resident population, were born in the countries listed, according to the latest immigration data available on the agencys Eligible to Naturalize Dashboard analysed by AFP.

Afghanistan, which has over 116,000 green card holders, is also affected by a total halt of immigration application processing, ordered by the Trump administration after the shooting.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

CIA director John Ratcliffe said the suspect, Lakanwal, had been part of a CIA-backed partner force fighting the Taliban in Afghanistan.

He added that he had been brought to the United States as part of a program to evacuate Afghans who had worked with the agency after the Taliban toppled the American-backed government in 2021.

Lakanwal had been living in the western state of Washington with his family and had driven across the country to the capital, officials said.

The heads of the FBI, CIA and Homeland Security and other senior Trump appointees all insisted that Lakanwal had been granted unvetted access to the US because of lax asylum policies in the wake of the chaotic final US withdrawal from Afghanistan under former president Biden.

However, AfghanEvac, a group that helped resettle Afghans in the US after the military withdrawal, said they had undergone some of the most extensive security vetting of any migrants.

With inputs from agencies

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
I would like to reiterate that energy supplies from Russia form the basis of Hungarys energy supply now and will remain so in the future, said Orban

Russia's President Vladimir Putin and Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban shake hands during a meeting at the Kremlin in Moscow Friday. AFP

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban defied the European Union on Friday by assuring Russian President Vladimir Putin that Hungary will continue purchasing Russian oil, during talks in Moscow held amid renewed diplomatic efforts to end Russias war in Ukraine.

Orban, who has led the EU and Nato member state since 2010, has maintained close ties with the Kremlin throughout the conflict while frequently criticising neighbouring Ukraine.

Fridays meeting marked his fourth encounter with Putin since the invasion  an engagement likely to anger Brussels, which has urged member states to cut their reliance on Russian energy and seeks a stronger role in shaping any future peace deal.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

We have not given up cooperation (with Russia) in any area, regardless of any external pressure, AFP quoted Orban as telling Putin.

I would like to reiterate that energy supplies from Russia form the basis of Hungarys energy supply now and will remain so in the future, he added.

Orban recently announced he would challenge the EU in court over its decision to phase out the blocs remaining Russian gas imports, a move that underscores Hungarys heavy reliance on Russian energy.

We greatly appreciate the reliability and predictability of these supplies, Orban said during his Moscow visit.

Putin, in turn, thanked Orban for what he described as Hungarys balanced position on Ukraine and for maintaining ties with Russia despite all the difficulties.

He said relations between Budapest and Moscow were grounded in pragmatism.

Ahead of his trip, Orban  who faces re-election next year  said he was travelling to Moscow to ensure Hungarys energy supply is secured for the winter and the following year at an affordable price.

The Hungarian leader, 62, has sought to cast himself as a potential mediator in the Ukraine war and reiterated that Hungary was ready to serve as a venue for peace negotiations.

A planned summit between Putin and former US President Donald Trump in Budapest last October was expected to bolster that image, but the meeting never took place.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

European leaders slam Orban

European leaders criticised Orban on Friday for travelling to Moscow to meet Putin.

According to a Politico report, in Berlin, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Orban had gone to the Kremlin without a European mandate, adding he was unsurprised given the Hungarian leaders history of acting alone.

Merz also doubted the trip would advance efforts to end the war in Ukraine.

Orban has his own ideas about how to end this war. So far, they have not been realised, he said, questioning whether the Hungarian premier will be more successful this time than last time.

Orban previously visited Moscow in July 2024, casting that trip as a peace mission.

Slovenian Prime Minister Robert Golob echoed Merzs criticism, saying he hoped the visit would not cause any major damage, adding, We do not expect any benefits or advantages from this visit.

With inputs from agencies
On arriving in Ankara, he was formally welcomed with a military honour guard and soon met with Recep Tayyip Erdogan at the Presidential Palace

Pope Leo XIV visits the Little Sisters of the Poor in a Home for the elderly, in Istanbul on November 28, 2025. (Photo by Andreas SOLARO / AFP)

Pope Leo XIV touched down in Ankara, Turkey, on Thursday, kick-starting his first official trip abroad since becoming head of the Catholic Church.

From the outset, the visits tone was one of gratitude and goodwill. Flying over on Thanksgiving, the Pope greeted some 80 journalists aboard the papal plane, wished his American passengers Happy Thanksgiving, and accepted gestures of goodwill including pumpkin pies and a pecan pie.

On arriving in Ankara, he was formally welcomed with a military honour guard and soon met with Recep Tayyip Erdogan at the Presidential Palace. There, Pope Leo called on Turkey to uphold pluralism and to serve as a bridge of dialogue and peace between faiths and peoples. A society is alive if it has plurality  what makes it a civil society are the bridges that link its people together, he said.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Against a backdrop of mounting global conflict, Pope Leo issued strong warnings.

He highlighted that the world is facing a heightened level of conflict on the global level, driven by economic and military power playsa situation he likened to a piecemeal third world war. The Pope urged leaders and citizens alike not to surrender to violence or division.

Pope Leo XIV appears emotional as he bows his head at the end of the Alleluia, standing on the altar of St. Esprit Cathedral before Turkeys tiny Catholic population. pic.twitter.com/g3yqavXcbD  Colm Flynn (@colmflynnire) November 28, 2025

More than a diplomatic gesture, the pilgrimage takes on profound symbolic importance: the visit commemorates the 1,700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaeaan early gathering that produced the Nicene Creed, a foundational statement of faith for Christians worldwide. Pope Leo will travel to Iznik (formerly Nicaea)where the Council occurredand is scheduled to meet with Bartholomew I of Constantinople, spiritual leader of the worlds Orthodox Christians. The joint ceremonies are viewed as a meaningful attempt to heal long-standing rifts within Christianity.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Following his events in Turkey, the Pope is slated to continue to Lebanona nation riven by political and economic instabilitywhere he aims to extend his message of interfaith solidarity, reconciliation, and hope for peace across war-torn regions of the Middle East.
The Russian presidents hardline comments, once more portraying Volodymyr Zelenskyy as illegitimate, indicated that, contrary to the White Houses hopeful tone, meaningful progress on the key issues required to halt the conflict remains elusive

In this pool photograph distributed by the Russian state agency Sputnik, Russia's President Vladimir Putin meets with the Russian media in Bishkek on November 27, 2025.- AFP

Russian President Vladimir Putin has responded to the amended peace plan to end the Russia-Ukraine war, asserting that Kyiv has to surrender territory to make any deal successful. He confirmed that the version of the plan discussed between the US and Ukraine has been shared with Moscow.

In general, we agree that this can be the basis for future agreements. We see that the American side takes our position into account in some areas. But in other points, we clearly need to sit down and talk, Putin said.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The Russian presidents hardline comments, once more portraying Volodymyr Zelenskyy as illegitimate, indicated that, contrary to the White Houses hopeful tone, meaningful progress on the key issues required to halt the conflict remains elusive.

While the Russian leader remains sceptical of the plan that once favoured Russia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has welcomed it, saying that Kyiv has reached "an understanding" with the US on the agreement.

The proposal is part of President Donald Trumps 28-point peace plan, which US and Ukrainian officials extensively discussed over the weekend to suit Kyivs interests better.

We will stop fighting if

Talking to reporters during a visit to Kyrgyzstan, Putin said that Russian forces will cease their operation if Ukraine agrees to withdraw from unspecified regions currently under Kyivs control.

If Ukrainian troops leave the territories they occupy, then we will stop fighting. If they dont, we will achieve our aims militarily, he said.

Putin said that the US special envoy, Steve Witkoff, is scheduled to visit Russia early next week, and he brushed aside claims that Witkoff had favoured Moscow during peace talks, dismissing them as nonsense.

Illegitimate

The Russian president on Thursday asserted that Ukraines current leadership lacks legitimacy and argued that there is no point in entering into any agreements with it.

He claimed that the authorities in Kyiv lost their mandate after opting not to hold elections following the end of President Volodymyr Zelenskyys term. Ukraine maintains that nationwide polls cannot be conducted under martial law while the country continues to defend itself against Russia.

Putin said that he considered the Ukrainian leadership to be illegitimate and so it was legally impossible to sign a deal with Ukraine; so it was important to ensure any agreement was recognised by the international community and that the international community recognised Russian gains in Ukraine.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit India on December 45 for the 23rd IndiaRussia Annual Summit at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During the visit, he will meet PM Modi, review bilateral ties, and discuss regional and global issues.

Russian President Vladimir Putin will be on a state visit to India on December 45 for the 23rd IndiaRussia Annual Summit, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed on Friday. The visit, taking place at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will see the Russian leader hold high-level talks in New Delhi.

The Kremlin also confirmed the dates through state media, noting that Putin will travel to India for the annual summit and for a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Modi.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

In its official statement, the MEA said, At the invitation of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, President of the Russian Federation H.E. Mr. Vladimir Putin will pay a State Visit to India from 45 December 2025 for the 23rd IndiaRussia Annual Summit.

During the two-day visit, President Putin will meet Prime Minister Modi for discussions on the full spectrum of bilateral ties. President Droupadi Murmu will also receive the Russian President and host a banquet in his honour.

According to the MEA, the summit will give both leaders an opportunity to review progress in the IndiaRussia partnership, chart a roadmap to further strengthen the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership, and exchange views on regional and global issues of shared interest.

Officials said the discussions will centre on the current state of the partnership and plans to further enhance the long-standing ties between the two countries.

The forthcoming State Visit will provide an opportunity for the leadership of India and Russia to review progress in bilateral relations, set the vision for strengthening the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership, and exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest, the MEA said in an official statement.

Putin last visited New Delhi in 2021, while Modi travelled to Moscow for the annual summit in July last year.
Mosteanu resigned to prevent the controversy from overshadowing his ministrys mission at a time when Romaniaand Europe at largeis under attack from Russia, he said

Romanian Minister of Defence Ionut Mosteanu addresses the media at Mihail Kogalniceanu Air Base on November 25, 2025. Mosteanu resigned on November 28, 2025 following accusations of having lied about his university studies in a CV. "Today, I resigned from my position as Minister of National Defence," Mosteanu announced in a Facebook post. "Romania and Europe are under attack from Russia. Our national security must be defended at all costs," he added, saying he does not want the discussions about his background "to distract those who are now leading the country from their difficult mission". (Photo by Daniel MIHAILESCU / AFP)

Ionut Mosteanu, the defence minister of Romania, stepped down on Friday after admitting that he had wrongly claimed to have graduated from a university he never attended.

Mosteanu resigned to prevent the controversy from overshadowing his ministrys mission at a time when Romaniaand Europe at largeis under attack from Russia, he said.

The controversy erupted after a media investigation published on Thursday revealed discrepancies in his resume. The report found that his claimed academic qualification was false, something Mosteanu did not dispute.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

In a CV I quickly put together in 2016 using a template I found online, there is a mistake that I admit embarrasses me. I didnt pay much attention to these details at the time, Mosteanu acknowledged in a public post.

He said the resignation was necessary so the row did not distract Romanias leadership from its difficult mission."

Mosteanu had been appointed defence minister in June this year when a new pro-European coalition assumed power after a politically turbulent period.

Following his resignation, the countrys Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan announced that the current economy and tourism minister, Radu Miruta, will serve as interim defence minister.

With heightened concern over national securitya result of repeated drone incursions and alleged hybrid attacks since Russia invaded Ukraineofficials in Bucharest were quick to emphasise stability at the top of the defence ministry.
Even as US President Donald Trump has pressed both the sides to agree to a deal, Russian leader Vladimir Putin has threatened Ukraine with annihilation if President Volodymyr Zelenskyy would not surrender all Ukrainian territories that he desires.

In this pool photograph distributed by Russian state agency Sputnik, Russia's President Vladimir Putin attends a meeting with Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces via videoconference at the Novo-Ogaryovo state residence outside Moscow on April 26, 2025. (Photo: AP)

Sticking to his maximalist demands irrespective of US President Donald Trumps peace process, Russian leader Vladimir Putin has threatened Ukraine with annihilation if President Volodymyr Zelenskyy would not surrender territories he wants.

Since Russian launched the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Putin has demanded Zelenskyy to give up the claim on Crimea, the peninsula that Russia invaded and occupied in 2014, and surrender the entire Donbas region in eastern Ukraine.

If Ukraine would not do that, Putin said Russia would continue the war until the death of the last Ukrainian.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Under his 28-point plan, Trump has pressed Ukraine to do exactly the same. But the clause received pushback from Ukraine and its European partners because it involved surrendering fortified areas that were not yet in Russian control.

Moreover, Donbas regions Donetsk province has long been the mining and industrial heartland of Ukraine. Giving that up without a fight would cripple the Ukrainian economy and amount to a political suicide. Experts have said that it could also tear apart civilian-military relationship in the country.

Putin rejects efforts to reach middle ground

Sticking to his maximalist demands, Putin said that he will have Ukraines land that he wants either through a surrender or force.

Claiming his army is practically impossible to hold back, Putin said during his visit to Kyrgyzstan that some people demand to keep on fighting until the last Ukrainian dies and Russia is ready for that.

Putin further said, If Ukrainian forces leave the territories they hold, then we will stop combat operations. If they dont, then we will achieve it by military means.

As for Trumps proposal, which already included most of his maximalist demands, Putin rejected it and said it could form the basis for future agreements. But he dismissed Ukraines leadership as illegitimate and said it was senseless to sign anything with Zelenskyy.

For a long time, Putin has rejected Ukraines nationhood and dubbed Zelenskyy as an illegitimate leader of an illegitimate country.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

On the other hand, Zelenskyys chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, has said that no sane person will cede territory as per Putins desires.

Not a single sane person today would sign a document to give up territory. As long as Zelenskyy is president, no one should count on us giving up territory. He will not sign away territory The constitution prohibits this. Nobody can do that unless they want to go against the Ukrainian constitution and the Ukrainian people, Yarmak told The Atlantic.
With Russia pressing for a retreat, Ukraine says peace cannot come at the cost of its borders

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attends the Coalition of the Willing meeting in Paris. X / @ZelenskyyUa

Ukraine has reaffirmed that it will not surrender any territory to Russia, drawing a hard line even as Moscow signals conditional interest in a new US-backed peace plan.

Speaking on Wednesday, senior Ukrainian official Andriy Yermak insisted that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy would never approve a deal that hands land to Russia under pressure.

Not a single sane person today would sign a document to give up territory, Yermak told The Atlantic, solidifying Kyivs stance that borders must remain intact. As long as President Zelenskyy is in office, Ukraine will never agree to surrender territory, he added.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The comments came in response to fresh demands from Russian leader Vladimir Putin, who reiterated that Ukraine must withdraw its forces from occupied eastern regions before negotiations can move forward. During a visit to Kyrgyzstan, Putin warned that Moscow would continue military action if Kyiv refused to pull back.

Ukraine must leave those territories. Without that, no ceasefire is possible, Putin declared, reiterating Russias maximalist terms.

Despite the tough rhetoric, the Kremlin has signalled tentative openness to the 28-point peace plan being shaped by the United States under President Donald Trump. Putin acknowledged that the proposal could form the basis for talks, but stressed that Russias territorial claims are not up for debate.

The US peace plan, though not made public in full, reportedly includes provisions for security guarantees for Ukraine, demilitarised zones, and international oversight mechanisms. Kyiv, however, has made clear that the plan must respect Ukrainian sovereignty.

Ukraine and the United States are now preparing for a new round of discussions on the peace formula. Officials in Kyiv say their priorities include long-term security arrangements, reconstruction commitments, and preventing any agreement that legitimises Russian occupation.

Tensions around the peace process have grown in recent weeks, with Ukrainian officials privately expressing concern that Moscow may use negotiations to freeze the conflict on its own terms. Publicly, however, Kyiv maintains that its red lines remain firm.

Russia wants us to negotiate from a position of weakness, Yermak said. But Ukraine will not trade land for an illusion of peace.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

As both sides harden their positions, analysts warn that the gulf between Russias territorial demands and Ukraines refusal to cede land could stall diplomatic efforts.
The Soyuz MS-28 spacecraft mission, carrying Roscosmos cosmonauts Sergey Kud-Sverchkov and Sergey Mikaev and NASA astronaut Chris Williams, took off from the Baikonur cosmodrome at 4:27 am (0927 GMT) on Thursday

In this handout photograph taken and released by NASA on November 27, 2025, a Soyuz 2.1a booster rocket with the Soyuz MS-28. AFP

Russias space launch site in Kazakhstan was damaged on Thursday after a Soyuz mission took off with Russian cosmonauts and US astronauts onboard, Moscows space agency Roscosmos said.

Russias space programme, which for decades has been a source of national pride, has been suffering for years from a chronic lack of funding and corruption scandals.Damage to a number of elements of the launch pad was identified, Roscosmos said on social media, after inspecting the Baikonur cosmodrome in Kazakhstan  Russias only launch site for manned missions.

While the agency was assessing the condition of the launch pad, it said all necessary spare parts for repair are available and the damage will be eliminated in the near future.

According to Russian space bloggers, Roscosmos will be unable to conduct space launches for some time due to the accident, alleging that the site in Kazakhstan was seriously damaged.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The Soyuz MS-28 spacecraft mission, carrying Roscosmos cosmonauts Sergey Kud-Sverchkov and Sergey Mikaev and NASA astronaut Chris Williams, took off from the Baikonur cosmodrome at 4:27 am (0927 GMT) on Thursday.

More from World Russia welcomes 'aspects' of Trump's plan to end war with Ukraine

The spacecraft later on Thursday successfully docked to the International Space Station, according to Roscosmos.

Space remains one of the few areas of US-Russia cooperation amid an almost complete breakdown in relations between Moscow and Washington over the war in Ukraine.

As part of the slew of sanctions imposed on Russia since its assault in 2022, many Western countries ceased partnerships with Roscosmos.
US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) chief, Joseph Edlow said that President Donald Trump has instructed the agency to conduct a full-scale, rigorous re-examination of every green card for every alien from every country of concern

The US government has announced that it would re-examine green card holders issued to people who came to the US from 19 specific countries, a day after an Afghan man shot two National Guard soldiers in Washington.

US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) chief, Joseph Edlow said that President Donald Trump has instructed the agency to conduct a full-scale, rigorous re-examination of every green card for every alien from every country of concern.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

While the move supposedly follows the Washington shooting incident, Edlows post on X announcing Trumps directive does not directly mention the attack.

The protection of this country and of the American people remains paramount, and the American people will not bear the cost of the prior administrations reckless resettlement policies, said Edlow.

Which countries are part of the move?

When asked by the BBC which nations were included, the agency referred to a June White House proclamation listing Afghanistan, Cuba, Haiti, Iran, Somalia, and Venezuela.

The proclamation highlighted that USCIS explained that the policy aims to limit foreign nationals from entering the US to protect against foreign terrorists and other national security and public safety threats.

According to the administration, factors such as security risks and high overstay rates for business, student, and tourist visas contributed to a country being added to the list.

The Taliban, a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) group, controls Afghanistan, the proclamation noted. Afghanistan lacks a competent or cooperative central authority for issuing passports or civil documents and it does not have appropriate screening and vetting measures.

Green card holders from other countries, including Burma, Chad, the Republic of Congo, and Libya, will also be subject to this review.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

FBI Director Kash Patel on Thursday confirmed that Rahmanullah Lakanwal, the suspect in the shooting of two US National Guard members, had connections to US forces in Afghanistan.

Lakanwal had a relationship in Afghanistan with partner forces, CNN quoted Patel as telling reporters during a news conference.

The suspect, identified as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, arrived in the United States in September 2021 under the Operation Allies Welcome programme, which provided visas to Afghans who had assisted the US government.

The FBI searched multiple properties in a widening probe, including a home in Washington state linked to the suspect, who officials said was part of a CIA-backed unit in Afghanistan before coming to the US in 2021 under a resettlement program.

Agents seized numerous electronic devices from the residence of the suspect, identified as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, including cellphones, laptops, and iPads, and interviewed his relatives, FBI Director Kash Patel told a news conference.

With inputs from agencies
Trump said he intends to stop migration from what he called third world countries, making the announcement a day after an Afghan national allegedly shot two National Guard soldiers in Washington.

Trump says he will pause migration from third world countries after DC shooting.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday said he intends to halt migration from what he described as third world countries, making the announcement a day after an Afghan national allegedly shot two National Guard soldiers in Washington.

I will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the US system to fully recover, Trump wrote in a social media post, adding that he also plans to overturn millions of admissions granted under Joe Biden and remove anyone who is not a net asset to the United States.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The statement came after one of the soldiers wounded in the shooting near the White House died of injuries. Following the incident, the government said it would reassess the permanent residency status of immigrants from 19 countries, including Afghanistan.

Reiterating his stance on immigration, Trump said his administration is working to permanently stop migration from Third World countries to help the US system recover and reset.

In a detailed post on Truth Social, he wrote: I will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the US system to fully recover, terminate all of the millions of Biden illegal admissions, including those signed by Sleepy Joe Bidens Autopen, and remove anyone who is not a net asset to the United States, or is incapable of loving our Country, end all Federal benefits and subsidies to noncitizens of our Country, denaturalise migrants who undermine domestic tranquillity, and deport any Foreign National who is a public charge, security risk, or non-compatible with Western Civilisation.

Trump said these measures would focus on illegal and disruptive populations, including those he claimed were admitted through an unauthorised and unlawful Autopen approval process.

The shooting near the White House, carried out by an Afghan refugee, was condemned by Trump as a heinous assault and an act of terror.

In a follow-up post, he added: This refugee burden is the leading cause of social dysfunction in America, something that did not exist after World War II. He further claimed, Even as we have progressed technologically, Immigration Policy has eroded those gains and living conditions for many.
Negotiations over Britains participation in the 150 billion Security Action for Europe (SAFE) scheme hit a deadlock, though London can still join under the 35% threshold for third countries

The EU and the UK were unable to reach an agreement allowing Britain to join the blocs 150 billion Security Action for Europe loans-for-weapons program, according to a Politico report, citing the European Commission and the UK on Friday.

We, of course, remain fully committed to delivering our ambitious UK- EU security and defense partnership, Politico quoted Commission spokesperson Thomas Regnier as saying.

If an agreement could not be found at this point in time, lets not forget that SAFE is open by design, Regnier added

A spokesperson for UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer told Politico, This is one of our most important alliances  we will move forward with all our defence plans regardless of our participation in SAFE.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Under SAFE, third countries can cover up to 35% of a weapons systems value. The UK had sought a higher share to benefit its arms industry.

Negotiations with the EU were fraught, centering on how much London should contribute to joint procurements. The UK offered only millions of euros, while the EU reduced its initial demand of 4.56.5 billion to 2 billion.

A UK official told Politico thatLondon aimed for a clear, rigorous methodology but faced too big a gap with the Commissions expectations. Even without a deal, the UK can still participate under the 35% threshold.

Were still bullish about prospects for the UK exports industry  were firmly in the in the place of wanting to work with our European allies. Its bigger than this one scheme, the same UK official said

The head of the Commissions Directorate-General for Defence Industry and Space, Timo Pesonen, told EU ambassadors on Friday morning that there is no deal with the UK, a diplomat told Politico.

The Commission is also negotiating a similar agreement with Canada.

Pesonen said he will provide an update on those talks Friday afternoon, noting there is more optimism that a deal can be reached with Ottawa.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

We were showing openness; were offering different solutions, but maybe the Brits changed a little bit their mind as  member states can buy from them directly, Politico quoted EU Defence Commissioner Andrius Kubilius as saying.

London and Brussels have been negotiating for weeks ahead of a Sunday deadline, when the 19 member states taking low-interest SAFE loans will present the Commission with their defense spending plans.

Officials did not rule out resuming talks later, but Kubilius said: For the time being at least, I dont have any kind of indication that [talks] can continue  its over.

He declined to comment on the financial dispute but stressed, We see this partnership with Britain as very important. He added he hopes to announce a deal with Canada by Sunday, as were quite close.

In a statement, UK Minister for European Union Relations Nick Thomas-Symonds said, while it is disappointing that we have not been able to conclude discussions on UK participation in the first round of SAFE, the U.K. defence industry will still be able to participate in projects through SAFE on third country terms.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

He also stressed that negotiations were carried out in good faith, but our position was always clear: we will only sign agreements that are in the national interest and provide value for money.

With inputs from agencies
The UN plea comes after US President Donald Trump vowed to freeze migration from what he called Third World countries in response to the shooting

President Donald Trump participates in a call with US service members from his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida on Thanksgiving Day on November 27, 2025 in Palm Beach, Florida. (AFP)

As calls for tighter immigration controls sweep Washington after a deadly attack near the White House, United Nations agencies on Friday urged the US government to keep its asylum doors open, and ensure due process for those seeking refuge.

The UN plea comes after US President Donald Trump vowed to freeze migration from what he called Third World countries in response to the shooting. Investigators say the attack was carried out by an Afghan national who entered the United States in 2021.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Speaking at a press briefing in Geneva, Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) spokesperson Jeremy Laurence stressed that asylum seekers are entitled to protections under international law. They are entitled to protection under international law, and that should be given due process, he said.

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) spokesperson Eujin Byun echoed the call, saying: When people who need protection arrive in their territory, they have to have a due process of asylum. And then they have to have access to territory. She also pointed out that the overwhelming majority of refugees are law-abiding members of the host community.

We really want to appeal at this point to the states who are hosting refugees and asylum seekers, Byun added.

The UN intervention marks a growing backlash to the administrations announcement.

In Washington, the shooting has become a flashpoint. Two members of the West Virginia National Guard were wounded in the ambush near the White House on Wednesday; one died, and the suspect, identified as the Afghan national, was arrested.

But the UN warns against conflating the crime of one individual with an entire category of vulnerable people. Instead, it calls for preserving international obligations toward asylum seekers, including access to territory, transparent processing, and protection under law. As Laurence put it, the principles of asylum must remain intact even in times of crisis.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
The soldier, Sarah Beckstrom, 20, died after getting critically injured in the shooting, Trump told US troops during a Thanksgiving Day phone call. Meanwhile, the other soldier, Andrew Wolfe, who was fighting for his life, is in very bad shape, the president added

Evidence markers sit on the ground after two National Guard members were shot near the White House in Washington, DC. Reuters

US President Donald Trump has announced that one of the two National Guard soldiers who was shot in Washington near the White House has died.

The soldier, Sarah Beckstrom, 20, died after getting critically injured in the shooting, Trump told US troops during a Thanksgiving Day phone call. Meanwhile, the other soldier, Andrew Wolfe, who was fighting for his life, is in very bad shape, the president added.

I heard that Sarah Beckstrom of West Virginia, one of the guardsmen that were talking about  highly respected, young, magnificent person, started service in June of 2023 outstanding in every way  shes just passed away, shes no longer with us. Shes looking down at us right now, Trump said.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Armed with a powerful revolver, a .357 Magnum, the gunman shot one member who fell and then shot again before firing multiple times at the second member. The gunman was wounded in an exchange of fire with Guard members before he was arrested. He was in the hospital under heavy guard on Thursday, and Trump said he was in serious condition.

Who were the National Guard soldiers?

Jeanine Pirro, the US attorney for the District of Columbia, said at a Thursday news conference that both individuals were members of the West Virginia National Guard.

According to a statement from the West Virginia National Guard, Beckstrom and Wolfe had been assigned to the DC Safe and Beautiful Mission when they were shot around 2:15 p.m. on Wednesday.

A spokesperson for the joint task force investigating the incident said the attack happened less than a day after the two had been deputised, a step required to allow them to continue conducting presence patrols.

FBI Director Kash Patel on Thursday confirmed that Rahmanullah Lakanwal, the suspect in the shooting of two US National Guard members, had connections to US forces in Afghanistan.

Lakanwal had a relationship in Afghanistan with partner forces, CNN quoted Patel as telling reporters during a news conference.

The suspect, identified as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, arrived in the United States in September 2021 under the Operation Allies Welcome programme, which provided visas to Afghans who had assisted the US government.

The FBI searched multiple properties in a widening probe, including a home in Washington state linked to the suspect, who officials said was part of a CIA-backed unit in Afghanistan before coming to the US in 2021 under a resettlement program.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Agents seized numerous electronic devices from the residence of the suspect, identified as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, including cellphones, laptops, and iPads, and interviewed his relatives, FBI Director Kash Patel told a news conference.

With inputs from agencies
Rahmanullah Lakanwal, the Afghan man linked to the DC shooting that killed a National Guard soldier, was previously evacuated to the US after the Taliban takeover. In Afghanistan, he served in a CIA-backed Zero Unit, a covert paramilitary force involved in counterterrorism operations alongside US troops.

A picture of Rahmanullah Lakanwal, the Afghan national who is the suspect in the shooting of two National Guard members, is displayed at a press conference with FBI Director Kash Patel, attorney Jeanine Pirro and other authorities, in Washington. Reuters

Rahmanullah Lakanwal  the Afghan man involved in the DC shooting that led to the death of a National Guard soldier  was among those evacuated to the United States after the Taliban takeover. In Afghanistan, he served in a Zero Unit, a covert paramilitary force that operated alongside US troops.

These Zero Units were formally part of Afghanistans intelligence service but operated outside the normal military chain of command. Recruited, trained, equipped and largely overseen by the CIA, they became central to counterterrorism operations throughout the war.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

An image of an ID badge circulating online on Thursday, which purportedly shows the suspect, identifies him as a member of the Kandahar Strike Force or 03 unit  one of several Zero Units that worked closely with US and other foreign forces. The badge also includes the words Firebase Gecko, the name of a CIA and special forces base in Kandahar located inside the former compound of Taliban founder Mullah Mohammad Omar.

CBS News has not independently verified the authenticity of the badge. However, CIA Director John Ratcliffe confirmed that the suspect had previously worked with the US Government, including CIA, as a member of a partner force in Kandahar.

The Zero Units were composed entirely of Afghan nationals and operated under the National Directorate of Security (NDS), the CIA-backed intelligence agency of the former US-supported Afghan government. A former senior Afghan general told CBS News that the 03 unit, also known as the Kandahar Strike Force, was under the NDS special forces directorate and described them as the most active and professional forces, trained and equipped by the CIA, with all operations conducted under CIA command.

Known for their secrecy and alleged brutality, the Zero Units were implicated in extrajudicial killings during night raids. Despite this, they were regarded by the US and its international partners as among the most reliable Afghan forces.

There was no immediate response from the Taliban government in Kabul, and officials did not answer CBS News requests for comment on the arrest in Washington.

As a member of a Zero Unit, the suspect would have been virtually guaranteed a route to asylum in the United States, as these elite operatives were at high risk of Taliban retaliation after the group retook power. Many played key roles in the August 2021 Kabul evacuation in return for a guaranteed place on a flight for themselves and their families.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
India is turning to phosphate-rich Morocco to secure stable fertiliser supplies amid global export uncertainties, deepening strategic, trade and energy cooperation during recent high-level diplomatic engagements in Rabat.

India is looking to Morocco as a reliable long-term partner for securing fertiliser supplies at a time when global phosphate trade is becoming increasingly fragile. Moroccos vast phosphate reserves and stable export policies offer India a crucial buffer against disruptions caused by major producers such as China which has tightened its fertiliser exports in recent years, According to reports.

A strategic shift amid global fertiliser uncertainty

Indias search for an uninterrupted supply of fertilisers has become increasingly urgent as phosphate-rich countries recalibrate their export policies. With global exporters such as China weaponising fertiliser shipments and restricting outward flows, Indian officials are charting alternative routes to ensure consistent access to phosphatic fertilisers.

Morocco, home to the worlds largest phosphate reserves has emerged as a dependable partner. The OCP Group, the Kingdoms state-owned phosphate giant already plays a greater role in Indias fertiliser ecosystem and New Delhi is now looking to deepen that engagement through strategic supply arrangements and potential joint ventures.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

High-level engagement in Rabat

This strategic alignment took centre-stage during the visit of Neena Malhotra, Secretary (South) at the Ministry of External Affairs, to Morocco from 18 to 21 November. The visit, part of the regular diplomatic consultations between the two countries, examined the full spectrum of bilateral ties including trade, cultural cooperation and strategic engagement.

Malhotra held extensive discussions with Fouad Yazough, Director General of International Political Affairs in Moroccos foreign ministry, touching upon political dialogue, defence and security cooperation, economic partnership and people-to-people exchanges. Both sides agreed to maintain regular contact with the next Foreign Office Consultations planned in New Delhi.

She also met senior officials, including Minister of Youth, Culture and Communication Mohammed Mehdi, who invited Indian companies to explore opportunities in Moroccos fast-growing gaming and digital creative industries. Preparations for commemorating the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 202627 also featured in the conversations.

Energy and sustainability add new layers to cooperation

In meetings with Leila Benali, Moroccos Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, both sides explored collaboration in renewable energy, particularly through the International Solar Alliance. The discussions highlighted complementarities in energy transition strategies with an emphasis on sustainable mining value chains, private-sector engagement and capacity-building under Indias ITEC programme.

Malhotra invited Minister Benali to participate in India Energy Week in Goa in January 2026, signalling Indias intent to broaden energy cooperation beyond fertilisers.

Fertiliser security at the core

A key stop on the visit was Malhotras meeting with Mostafa Terrab, Chairman and CEO of the OCP Group. The discussions reaffirmed the centrality of Morocco in Indias fertiliser supply chain, focusing on strengthening long-term strategic supply arrangements, exploring joint ventures and expanding cooperation in sustainable agriculture, soil health and food security.

As India seeks a stable partner amid global volatility, Moroccos consistent export capacity and long-standing ties make it a natural choice.

A deepening partnership built over decades

India and Morocco, linked by more than 40 bilateral agreements are now preparing to celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations in 2027. The MEA said that the recent consultations reaffirmed the enduring friendship between the two nations and reinforced their commitment to expanding cooperation in trade, technology, tourism and cultural exchanges.

With fertiliser security now a critical national priority, Indias engagement with Morocco appears set to become even more consequential in the years ahead.

With inputs from agencies
Structural corruption, political donations, House of Lords appointments, and media concentration are concentrating power in the hands of the wealthy, undermining democracy, according to a report, citing a study by Equality Trust

Unelected membership of the House of Lords has expanded from 676 to 803 in the past 20 years, while political donations of more than 250,000 jumped from 7.6m to 47m, the study notes. AP File

Are super-rich wielding power in Britain? A stark new report from the Equality Trust warns that structural corruption and the rise of conduits for unelected power are reshaping British politics.

Over the past two decades, the influence of the ultra-wealthy and the institutions that amplify it has grown significantly, the report claims, raising concerns about the concentration of power outside the electorate.

Our new Concentration of Power Index shows that wealth concentration aligns with power. Our index rises almost exactly in step with increases in the top 1% share of wealth. This correlation is strong and statistically significant, The Guardian quoted Priya Sahni-Nicholas, the co-executive director of Equality Trust, as saying.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The study titled Money, Media and Lords: How the ultra-rich are shaping Britain argues that unelected power in Britain has risen sharply at the same time as an increasing amount of money is spent on political access and influence.

These trends move in lockstep with wealth concentration at the top and are increasingly embedded within the countrys political and media systems, added Sahni-Nicholas.

Power concentration

The report highlights how the House of Lords appointments, large political donations, and concentrated media ownership act as conduits for unelected power.

Over the past 20 years, unelected membership of the Lords have risen from 676 to 803, while political donations above 250,000 jumped from 7.6m to over 47m.

Last week, seven peers were accused of acting all but unconstitutionally by effectively blocking a Commons-passed bill.

Analysis by The Guardian found that one in ten peers received payment for political advice during the 20192024 parliament.

Meanwhile, media ownership has become more concentrated, with the UKs three largest news conglomerates controlling roughly 90% of the market, up from 71%.

This is structural corruption, Sahni-Nicholas argued. It is a legal, slow-moving operation where institutions adapt to serve concentrated wealth.

Media monopoly

According to The Guardian report, the UK government is considering amendments that would allow foreign states to own up to 15% of British newspapers and magazines, raising concerns over media influence.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

Critics are already wary of the dominance of tech giants, with Google handling 93% of UK search traffic and, alongside Meta, accounting for three-fifths of all UK advertising spend.

The Equality Trust report calls for limiting private political donations to 5,000, curbing political appointments, promoting diverse ownership, and funding independent local media to counter the influence of a few major players.

Research highlights the concentration of UK media: DMG Media, News UK, and Reach now control 90% of national newspaper circulation, up 20% since 2014. Local news is similarly consolidated, with Newsquest and National World owning 51% of the UKs 882 local newspapers and websites.

The report warns that the opaque power of a few tech platforms and media conglomerates threatens independent journalism and digital rights.

The ultra-rich media owners are tightening their grip on democracy," The Guardian quoted Prof Robert Reich, the co-founder of Inequality Media, as saying.

Billionaire media owners like [Elon] Musk, [Jeff] Bezos, [Larry] Ellison and [Rupert] Murdoch are businessmen first and foremost, he said, adding, Their highest goal is not to inform the public but to make money."

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

In an era when wealth is concentrated in the hands of a few individuals who have bought up key media there is a growing danger that the public will not be getting the truth it needs to function in this democracy, said Reich.

With inputs from agencies
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Friday announced that his chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, has resigned following a raid on his home by the countrys anti-corruption authorities, intensifying a major graft scandal at a critical time for Ukraine

Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak talks to the press at the U.S. Mission to International Organizations in Geneva, Switzerland, on November 23, 2025. AP File

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Friday announced that his chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, has resigned following a raid on his home by the countrys anti-corruption authorities, intensifying a major graft scandal at a critical time for Ukraine.

Yermak has been Ukraines lead negotiator in peace talks with Russia and the United States. He has also been a trusted confidante of Zelenskyys for years.

The Office of the President of Ukraine will be reorganised. The head of the office, Andriy Yermak, has submitted his resignation, Kyiv Post quoted Zelenskyy as saying in a video address, adding that consultations on a replacement would begin Saturday.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The raid, conducted by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAP), is linked to an ongoing investigation into a $100-million kickback scheme in Ukraines strategic energy sector.

Investigators say the scheme operated as Russia stepped up attacks on Ukraines power grid, causing blackouts and threatening winter heating supplies.

Yermak, 54, said he was fully cooperating with investigators.

There are no obstacles for the investigators. They have been given full access and my lawyers are present on-site, he wrote on social media.

A former film producer and copyright lawyer, Yermak has been one of President Zelenskyys closest allies since 2019, often described as the presidents gatekeeper and the second-most influential figure in Ukraine.

He also served as Ukraines lead negotiator with the United States on a recent draft peace plan, a role analysts say could be complicated by the scandal and his resignation.

With inputs from agencies
Searches come amid a major corruption scandal in Ukraines energy sector, heightening political pressure as the country battles Russian strikes on its infrastructure

(FILES) Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky (R) and Head of the Office of the Presidency of Ukraine Andriy Yermak (L) during their meeting at the Zarzuela Palace in Madrid on November 18, 2025. (AFP)

Ukraines anti-corruption agencies carried out a search targeting the home of Andriy Yermak, President Volodymyr Zelenskyys influential chief of staff, officials confirmed on Friday, marking a dramatic escalation in the countrys largest graft scandal in years.

The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAP) said in a joint statement that investigators were executing sanctioned investigative actions at Yermaks residence.

Authorities described the operation as part of an ongoing probe but did not provide further details about what evidence they were seeking or what allegations may be tied directly to the presidential aide.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD

The searches come against the backdrop of a $100 million kickback scheme uncovered earlier this month within Ukraines strategic energy sector. This revelation has ignited public anger as Russian strikes continue to pound the national power grid. Damage to key facilities has already triggered rolling blackouts, with officials warning of possible heating disruptions as winter approaches.

Although Yermak has not been formally accused of wrongdoing, the decision to search the home of one of the most powerful figures in Zelenskyys circle speaks volumes on the high stakes of the investigation. Critics have long accused Yermak of amassing outsized influence in Kyiv, controlling access to the president and sidelining opponents within the political establishment.

Beyond his domestic role, Yermak has been at the centre of Ukraines diplomatic efforts.

Zelensky entrusted him with leading negotiations with Washington to revise a 28-point peace proposal put forward by US President Donald Trump, which Kyiv had previously criticised as leaning too far toward Moscows interests.

Responding to Fridays developments, Yermak said he was fully cooperating with the authorities.

There are no obstacles for the investigators, he said in a message posted on social media.

They have been given complete access to the apartment, and my lawyers are present and working with law enforcement. From my side, there is full cooperation, he said.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
Sony Semiconductor Solutions Corporation today announced the upcoming release of the LYTIA 901, a 1/1.12-type stacked CMOS mobile image sensor featuring approximately 200 effective megapixels. The sensor introduces a redesigned pixel architecture, improved low-light capture, and AI-based image processing embedded inside the sensor to preserve detail during zoom shooting and video recording.

LYTIA 901 CMOS image sensor

The LYTIA 901 uses a 1/1.12-type (14.287 mm diagonal) format with a 0.7 m pixel pitch to achieve its approximately 200-effective-megapixel resolution. It also marks the start of Sonys new unified naming format in which all upcoming models will follow the structure LYTIA (product number).

Key features

Quad-Quad Bayer Coding (QQBC) for high resolution and sensitivity

The QQBC arrangement clusters 16 same-color pixels to maximize sensitivity for regular shooting, especially in dim environments. For zoom capture, remosaicing restores full pixel layout to maintain high resolution.

16 (44) same-color pixels processed as one unit during standard shooting

High-resolution reconstruction for up to 4 zoom

Updated pixel structure and color filter enhance saturation signal and dynamic range

AI learning-based remosaicing inside the sensor

Sony has developed a new AI learning-based remosaicing technique for the QQBC structure and integrated the processing hardware directly into the sensor. This enables reproduction of high-frequency visual elements while supporting real-time zoom recording.

Resolves fine textures, small lettering, and high-frequency patterns

Enables 4K video recording at up to 30 fps with up to 4 zoom

On-sensor processing reduces computation latency and improves efficiency

HDR technologies for tonal accuracy and wide dynamic range

The LYTIA 901 combines DCG-HDR, Fine12-bit ADC, and HF-HDR to maintain tonal precision and detail across bright and dark regions. In 16-pixel additive mode, HDR processing achieves an effective dynamic range of over 100 dB.

DCG-HDR merges signal data captured at different gain levels in a single frame

Fine12-bit ADC increases bit depth from conventional 10-bit to 12-bit

HF-HDR composites short-exposure frames with DCG data to expand dynamic range

Quick specifications: LYTIA 901 CMOS image sensor

Availability

Sony states that mass-production shipments of the LYTIA 901 will begin in November 2025. The sensor is set to appear in upcoming flagship Android smartphones, with real-world performance expected once consumer products launch.

Reports indicate that the OPPO Find X9 Ultra and vivo X300 Ultra are likely to be among the first devices to adopt it in Q1 2026.
Chinese medical team renews free surgical treatment in Ghana

Xinhua) 13:18, November 28, 2025

ACCRA, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese medical team to Ghana, with the support of some Chinese enterprises and charity organizations, on Thursday renewed its charity project to provide free surgical treatment at Lekma Hospital in Accra, the national capital.

Launched in 2022, the project titled "Minimally Invasive Surgery in Ghana and Seeing the Beautiful World" has enabled the medical teams to complete 160 cataract surgeries and nearly 90 laparoscopic surgeries in Ghana.

Liu Liqun, director of the Guangdong Provincial Health Commission, said during the relaunch ceremony that the renewal of the project underscores the collaboration and deeper cooperation between China and Ghana.

Yang Yongguang, head of the 14th batch of the Chinese medical team to Ghana, said that through the charity project, Chinese doctors have restored hope to many people.

According to him, these efforts have not only restored health and eyesight to many Ghanaian patients but also positioned Lekma Hospital among Ghana's leading institutions in minimally invasive surgery and cataract treatment.

Clinical Director at Lekma Hospital Folasade Ojo-Benys emphasized the significance of collaboration between the two countries.

"This event marks the formal realization of a partnership rooted in shared knowledge, mutual respect, and a common vision to enhance specialized medical care for the people of Ghana," she said.

The event also marked the unveiling of both a China-Ghana ophthalmic surgery training base and a China-Ghana laparoscopic surgery training base, along with the donation of laparoscopic surgical simulators.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Sun Sunday

51 /30

Times of sun and clouds. Highs in the low 50s and lows in the low 30s.
NATO boosts defence readiness in North Baltic Sea during Exercise Freezing Winds

NATO Allied Maritime Command

Nov 26 2025

NORTHERN BALTIC SEA -- The ships from Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group 1 (SNMCMG1) returned to Finnish waters to participate in the annual multinational joint exercise Freezing Winds 25. Ships assigned to the group will assemble in Turku, Finland, before setting sail for the Gulf of Finland, off the southern coast of Finland in the Northern Baltic Sea.

The Baltic Sea's harsh winter conditions pose unique challenges, demanding precision and adaptability from participating forces. Through rigorous training and realistic scenarios, Exercise Freezing Winds ensures that naval units are ready to respond to a range of dynamic threats - from maritime attacks to disruptions of vital sea lines of communication (SLOC).

"Exercise Freezing Winds underscores the strategic importance of joint training in the northern Baltic Sea region, where challenging conditions demand high-end capabilities and seamless interoperability. Operating alongside one of NATO's newest members, the Finnish Armed Forces, SNMCMG1 is eager to stengthen collective defense through multi-layered maritime scenarios," said Commander Janis Auce (Latvian Navy), Commander of Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group 1. "This exercise not only reinforces our operational coordination but also highlights our shared readiness and commitment to maintaining safety and security throughout the region".

As a central component of NATO's commitment to regional security, Freezing Winds unites maritime forces from numerous Allied and Partner nations. This large-scale, Finnish-led defence exercise brings together combat, support, and transport vessels, alongside fighter jets, helicopters, maritime patrol aircraft, and roughly 5,000 personnel from across the Alliance.

In today's evolving security landscape, NATO remains vigilant throughout the Baltic Sea region. The protection of sea lines of communication and critical infrastructure is a top priority for Finnish and Allied naval forces. By maintaining a persistent presence and demonstrating operational readiness, Finland and its NATO partners stand united in their commitment to uphold peace, safety, and resilience across the region.

"NATO remains vigilant in the Baltic Sea, ensuring security and stability in this strategically important region. The Finnish Navy, together with our NATO Allies, has demonstrated the ability to conduct joint maritime operations swiftly and effectively, underscoring our shared commitment to readiness and cooperation," said Captain (N) Marko Laaksonen, Deputy Chief of Staff Operations, Finnish Navy.

The combined military capabilities of the Finnish Defence Forces and NATO Allies highlight the strength of the Alliance's collective defence. Through joint exercises, these forces enhance interoperability, reinforce regional security, and increase Allies' understanding of the maritime environment.

Maintaining freedom of navigation and safeguarding key maritime areas are essential to the interests of Allied nations. NATO forces remain prepared to respond swiftly and decisively, ensuring stability and providing credible deterrence throughout the Baltic Sea region.

In recent months, NATO's Baltic Sentry enhanced vigilance activity has significantly improved surveillance and monitoring across the Baltic Sea, responding to rising tensions and increased threats to critical infrastructure. This proactive, coordinated effort strengthens the protection of vital undersea assets, improves maritime situational awareness, and deters hostile activity. Since Baltic Sentry began in January 2025, there have been no maligned damage to critical undersea infrastructure in the Baltic Sea. Baltic Sentry underscores NATO's unwavering commitment to security and resilience in a region facing an increasingly complex operating environment.

SNMCMG1 provides continuous maritime mine countermeasures (MCM) capabilities to execute NATO missions across the whole area of responsibility. It operates under Allied Maritime Command (MARCOM), headquartered in Northwood, United Kingdom. MARCOM is the central command of all NATO maritime forces, and the MARCOM commander is the primary maritime advisor to the Alliance.

Story by Public Affairs Office at MARCOM

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Poland's top diplomat Radosaw Sikorski and Deputy Minister Robert Kupiecki take part in Foreign Affairs Council

Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Republic of Poland

26.11.2025

The meeting was devoted to Russia's aggression against Ukraine and diplomatic efforts that could eventually bring it to an end. The video conference of EU foreign ministers followed up on the discussion held during the most recent informal meeting of EU leaders. The aim of the talks was to exchange views on the prospects for achieving a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.

The first part of the videoconference was attended by Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha, who updated EU ministers on, among other things, the status of negotiations involving the Ukrainian side.

During the meeting, Poland advocated for the EU to continue its political, military, and financial support for Ukraine, including through the use of immobilised Russian assets and Europe's active involvement in the negotiation process in cooperation with the American side. Poland also called for maintaining pressure on Russia, including through further sanctions.

Minister Sikorski emphasised that decisions within a peace deal that concern potential commitments of European states, including Poland, must be made with their participation.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Xi extends congratulations on Int'l Day of Solidarity with Palestinian People

Ministry of National Defense of the People's Republic of China

Source Xinhuanet

EditorLin Congyi

Time2025-11-26 20:55:49

BEIJING, Nov. 26 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping has sent congratulations to a UN meeting held on Tuesday to commemorate the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People.

In his message, Xi said that the Palestinian issue lies at the heart of the Middle East conflict, affecting international fairness, justice and regional stability.

He added that under the current circumstances, the international community should build greater consensus and take more proactive steps to ensure a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire in Gaza and prevent a resurgence of conflict.

Noting that post-conflict governance and reconstruction in Gaza should be carried out under the principle of "Palestinians governing Palestine," with full respect for the will of the Palestinian people and due regard for the legitimate concerns of countries in the region, Xi stressed the urgency of swiftly improving the humanitarian situation in Gaza and alleviating the suffering of the Palestinian people. Most importantly, he said, efforts should be anchored in the pursuit of a two-state solution to promote an early political settlement of the Palestinian issue.

Xi emphasized that the Palestinian issue is also a test of the effectiveness of the global governance system. He called on the international community to confront the root causes of the Palestinian issue, shoulder responsibility, take strong actions, correct historical injustices, and uphold fairness and justice.

As a permanent member of the UN Security Council, China firmly supports the just cause of the Palestinian people to restore their legitimate national rights, Xi said, adding that China will continue to work with the international community to make unremitting efforts for a comprehensive, just and lasting settlement of the Palestinian issue at an early date.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Europe's resilience in the face of war and authoritarianism

Council of Europe

Deputy Secretary General delivers 3rd Klaus Kinkel Lecture

Deputy Secretary General

Strasbourg

27 November 2025

Deputy Secretary General of the Council of Europe Bjrn Berge gave the 3rd Klaus Kinkel Lecture Karlsruhe, Germany. In his lecture, entitled Europe's Resilience in the Face of War and Authoritarianism, he discussed Russia's war of aggression in Ukraine, and the threat of artificial intelligence and foreign information manipulation and interference. He highlighted ways Europe and its institutions, particularly the Council of Europe, can address these challenges and find just and lasting peace for Ukraine.

The Deputy Secretary General reminded the audience of then Federal Foreign Minister Klaus Kinkels address at the UN General Assembly in 1992, where he denounced the ongoing wars saying: "Even setbacks must not divert us from this right path towards the rule of law and respect for human dignity. There is no reasonable alternative to this, unless one wanted to go back to the law of the strongest."

"It is impossible not to hear the resonance of those words in what is happening right now in Ukraine," Mr Berge told the audience.

"I believe the choice before us today is the same one Kinkel described more than thirty years ago: Do we uphold the rule of law, even when it is difficult - or do we allow the law of the strongest to become the new normal?

And as I have already mentioned, supporting those affected by the war  and ensuring that perpetrators of war crimes are brought to justice  is central to our work, and will help secure a just and lasting peace for Ukraine."

Welcoming remarks were made by Dr. Salim Amin, Policy Advisor for Human Rights and International Rule of Law at the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom, and Philipp Ivo Kratzer, Board member at the Association of Liberal Lawyers.

Deputy Secretary General Berge participated in a panel discussion with Anne Brasseur, Member of the Board of Directors of Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom and former President of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, answering questions from moderator Giggi Deppe and audience members about how to preserve the essence of liberal democracy in a rapidly changing world.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Guinea-Bissau: Statement by the Spokesperson on the latest developments

European External Action Service (EEAS)

27.11.2025

EEAS Press Team

The EU notes with concern the developments in Guinea-Bissau.

In line with the statements issued by the Chair of ECOWAS Authority and the African Union Commission Chairperson, we call for a swift return to the constitutional order and the resumption of the electoral process. The vote count interrupted by the military intervention just before its consolidation should be allowed to proceed as planned. The results of the presidential and legislative elections should be respected by all parties.

The EU urges to abstain from all violent action and calls to free all extrajudicially detained persons and to respect fundamental rights and freedoms.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






EU-Moldova: Joint Statement following the 4th High-Level Political and Security Dialogue

European External Action Service (EEAS)

27.11.2025

EEAS Press Team

The European Union and the Republic of Moldova today held their 4th High-Level Political and Security Dialogue, underlining their shared commitment to deepening cooperation in the field of common foreign and security policy, as Moldova advances towards EU membership.

During the meeting, the EU reiterated its steadfast support for Moldova on its reform path towards EU accession, commending the country's reform progress and its democratic resilience in the face of relentless hybrid attacks by Russia.

Discussions focused on the complex geopolitical landscape, marked by Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine. Both parties reiterated their commitment to enhance their bilateral cooperation and build synergies in multilateral fora to uphold international peace and security.

In line with the EU- Moldova Security and Defence Partnership concluded in 2024, the parties agreed to step-up their cooperation to counter hybrid threats and boost cyber security capabilities, building on the lessons learned from Moldova's experience. The EU reinforced its commitment to supporting Moldova through strategic initiatives like the EU Partnership Mission in Moldova (EUPM). Moldova welcomed the extension of the mandate of the EUPM for 2 years until 2027. In support of modernising Moldova's defence sector and as an investment in peace, security and stability, the EU also recalled that Moldova is the second-largest beneficiary of the European Peace Facility (EPF), which has supported measures amounting to 197 million for the period 2021-2025. Moldova expressed its high appreciation for the assistance already provided through the EPF, as well as reiterated the relevance of additional assistance for the next years amid the existing regional challenges.

The EU commended Moldova for its consistent cooperation on foreign policy issues, and its continued efforts towards full alignment with the EU Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP). It welcomed Moldova's participation in EU missions and operations under the EU Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP).

Both the EU and Moldova committed to further enhance their collaboration across the spectrum of foreign, security and defence policies. The dialogue reaffirmed the solid partnership between the EU and the Republic of Moldova, highlighting their shared commitment to peace, security, stability, and prosperity across Europe.

The meeting was co-chaired by the Deputy Secretary-General for Political Affairs at the European External Action Service, Olof Skoog, and State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Moldova, Valeriu Mija.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Poland selects Swedish submarines

Government Offices of Sweden

Press release from Prime Minister's Office, Ministry of Defence, Ministry for Foreign Affairs

Published 27 November 2025

On 26 November, Poland announced that it has chosen Sweden to partner in its submarine programme. Poland is purchasing three submarines in one of Sweden's largest-ever naval export deals.

"Poland has chosen Sweden to partner in its submarine programme. This is a testament to the cooperation between our two countries and Sweden's status as a defence industry nation. It is also an acknowledgement that Sweden's defence industry stands strong. Saab has a world-leading submarine programme. Poland and Sweden have a shared view of the challenges facing European security. Together, Sweden and Poland will take greater responsibility for security in the Baltic Sea. We are now significantly intensifying our political, defence and industrial cooperation. In uncertain times for our entire region, we are now strengthening our part of the world together," says Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson.

"As close Allies and Baltic Sea States, Poland and Sweden will cooperate more closely to ensure security in the entire Baltic Sea region. We have a solid foundation in our shared understanding of the long-term threat from Russia and the importance of supporting Ukraine," says Minister for Foreign Affairs Maria Malmer Stenergard.

"We are facing the most serious security situation in Europe since the Second World War, and it is more important than ever that we have expanded defence cooperation in the Baltic Sea region. This deal establishes a common system for underwater operations in the Baltic Sea and enhances interoperability between the Swedish and Polish fleets," says Minister for Defence Pal Jonson.

Relations between Poland and Sweden are historically, politically and culturally strong, and the two countries have long cooperated on Baltic Sea issues. Poland was one of the first countries to ratify Sweden's accession to NATO.

In November 2024, Sweden and Poland entered into a strategic partnership agreement, which was signed by the respective heads of government. This partnership focuses on increased cooperation on security and defence, economic innovation and competitiveness, strengthening security in the Baltic Sea Region and supporting Ukraine.

In September 2025, Mr Jonson and Poland's Minister of National Defence Wadysaw Kosiniak-Kamysz signed a Letter of Intent concerning military-technical cooperation, which lays the groundwork for joint development and production of defence systems. This cooperation will help strengthen ties between the Swedish and Polish defence industries.

Poland's procurement of Swedish submarines will further enhance cooperation between Sweden and Poland in the military, political and industrial arenas.

The Swedish submarine offering includes state-of-the-art technology provided by the United Kingdom. Together, Poland and Sweden - with support from the United Kingdom - make up a strong and decisive force in the Baltic Sea region.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Development of infrastructure in Helguvik underway

Government of Iceland

27 November 2025

Ministry for Foreign Affairs

Minister for Foreign Affairs orgerur Katrin Gunnarsdottir, Kjartan Mar Kjartansson, Mayor of Reykjanesbr, and Halldor K. Hermannsson, Harbour Master of Reykjanes Harbour, today signed a letter of intent on the planned development of infrastructure in Helguvik Harbour.

This involves the expansion of the NATO fuel storage facility in Helguvik, which includes the construction of a new berth as well as a storage tanks for 25 thousand cubic meters of maritime fuel. The construction will be financed by NATO.

"It is important to strengthen the defense infrastructure and capabilities here in Iceland in order to better ensure support for Allied ships conducting surveillance and operations in the North Atlantic. These facilities are also useful for us and contributes to increased security in terms of fuel supplies and port facilities," says orgerur Katrin Gunnarsdottir, Minister for Foreign Affairs.

The preparatory work and design of the aforementioned structures in Helguvik, is currently underway. Construction is scheduled to begin in late 2026 and be completed in 2029.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Air detachments conducting the NATO Air Policing Mission in the Baltic states changed over: Spain starts its 70th rotation

Republic of Lithuania - Ministry of National Defence

2025-11-27

International cooperation | Security and defense policy

November 27, air force detachments conducting the NATO Air Policing Mission in the Baltic states changed over at a Hand Over-Take Over at the Air Force Base in Siauliai. The 70th anniversary rotation will be flown by the Spanish Air and Space Force Detachment with eight Eurofighter Typhoon fighter aircraft. Four of those will be dedicated for air policing tasks and the remaining will man the Rotational NATO Air Defence Model.

At the ceremony, the Hungarian and the Spanish detachments who had conducted the 69th mission were bid farewell. They were safeguarding the Baltic airspace with four Hungarian Gripens and eight Spanish Eurofighter Typhoons for the past four months. The 69th mission was conducted by approx.300 troops: pilots, technicians, medical personnel, support groups, specialists of communications, logistics, and more areas. The troops actively engaged with the community, hosted student and pupil guided tour and attended Siauliai City events during the deployment.

The NATO Air Policing Mission and the Rotational Air Defence Model are cornerstone to security and defence in our region. It is imperative to strengthen air defence against the full spectrum of threats in the current security environment. We are grateful to the Spanish and Hungarian air detachments for your consistent contribution and dedicated service, especially with the increasingly frequent airspace violations of the recent months. Their presence in the Baltic states is a clear expression of allied solidarity and resolve to defend the eastern flank of NATO. As we welcome the Spanish detachment incoming to take charge of the mission, we hope to continue keeping the Baltic airspace safe through joint effort,

said Vice Minister Tomas Godliauskas at the ceremony.

The Spanish Air and Space Force will be conducting the NATO Air Policing Mission in the Baltic states for the 10th time.

NATO Allies began deploying capabilities to safeguard the Baltic airspace in March 2004 when Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia became members of NATO. Since then, 17 Allies have ensured security of the Baltic airspace so far.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






NATO Secretary General highlights Icelands role in transatlantic security

NATO - North Atlantic Treaty Organisation

27 November 2025

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte visited Iceland on Thursday (27 November 2025) for meetings with Prime Minister Kristrun Frostadottir and Foreign Minister orgerur Katrin Gunnarsdottir.

During the visit, the Secretary General visited Keflavik Air Base and flew by helicopter over the Grindavik lava barriers - structures built to safeguard the town and nearby critical infrastructure from repeated volcanic activity.

"Volcanic eruptions have forced the people of Grindavik to leave their homes again and again. The lava barriers built to protect the town and critical infrastructure are impressive," said the Secretary General. He added that Iceland has here shown that commitment, ingenuity and resilience matter.

Secretary General Rutte thanked Iceland for its strong contributions to NATO, welcoming the countrys first formal defence policy, presented to parliament earlier this month.

"Your strategic position underpins security for North America and Europe - at sea, below the surface, and in the air above," he said. "You operate critical air defence and surveillance systems as part of NATO's Integrated Air and Missile Defence; and you provide facilities, infrastructure and host nation support at Keflavik for regular Air Policing."

He also underlined Icelands continued support to Ukraine. Iceland has contributed more than 8 million euros to the Prioritized Ukraine Requirement List (PURL), and is supporting the Danish defence industry model and the Czech Ammunition Initiative. Iceland has further funded prosthetics for wounded in Ukrainians, and support demining efforts with Lithuania.

"These are concrete contributions that save lives and strengthen Ukraines defence and also send a clear signal to Moscow that Allies stand with Ukraine," he said.

This was Mr Ruttes first visit to Iceland since taking office as NATO Secretary General in October last year.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Sudan: UN experts call for urgent action to combat trafficking in El Fasher

Press releases

Special Procedures

27 November 2025

GENEVA -- UN human rights experts* today expressed concern about reports of trafficking of women and girls for sexual exploitation and sexual slavery and children for recruitment and use as fighters in the escalating violence in El Fasher.

Since the RSF siege of El Fasher and surrounding areas began in May 2024, over 470,000 people have been displaced multiple times, including from the Shagra, Zamzam and Abu Shouk camps. More than six million children, 27 per cent of whom are under five, are internally displaced or seeking refuge and protection in neighboring countries. Sexual violence is occurring throughout Sudan's conflict zones, including, El Fasher, Bahri, Gezira, Khartoum, Kordofan, Kornoi, Nyala, Omdurman and Zamzam.

"We are deeply concerned at the alarming reports of human trafficking since the takeover of El Fasher and surrounding areas by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF)," the experts said. "Women and girls have been abducted in RSF-controlled areas, and women, unaccompanied and separated children are at elevated risk of sexual violence and sexual exploitation."

In June 2025, women and girls aged 15 to 17 were reportedly raped near the RSF checkpoint between Shagra and Tawilah while fleeing from El Fasher. Another 25 women were gang-raped by the RSF at gun point at a shelter for displaced people near El Fasher University. Forced nudity has also been documented at checkpoints.

"Internally displaced women and girls are among those trafficked for sexual slavery and other forms of sexual exploitation. Recruitment and use of children by armed groups is also on the rise," the experts said.

"There is overwhelming evidence that women and children belonging to non-Arab communities in North Darfur, including the Zaghawa and the Fur, have been ethnically targeted and raped," the experts added. "Reports also reveal a pattern of arbitrary detention and forced marriage of women and children for sexual exploitation. The exercise of ownership over victims in these contexts is indicative of sexual slavery."

"Families are left without shelters, healthcare, education, or basic safety, while blocked aid and collapsing services are pushing them to the brink. We call for urgent action to end the human rights violations driving this suffering and to ensure displaced communities receive the protection and assistance they desperately need," the experts said.

"All parties to the conflict must respect human rights and prevent further atrocities against civilians, including the trafficking of women and children," they said, warning that sexual exploitation, sexual slavery and sexual violence of comparable gravity, as well as recruitment of children for any purpose of exploitation constitute trafficking and are serious violations of international law.

The experts welcomed the Human Rights Council's decision to convene a special session on the human rights situation in and around El Fasher on 14 November 2025, and urged Member States to take urgent and concerted action to implement the Council's resolutions on Sudan.

* The experts: Siobhan Mullally, the Special Rapporteur on trafficking in persons, especially women and children

Tomoya Obokata, the Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of slavery, including its causes and consequences

Mama Fatima Singhateh, the Special Rapporteur on the sale, sexual exploitation and sexual abuse of children

Paula Gaviria, the Special Rapporteur on the human rights of internally displaced persons Special Rapporteurs/Independent Experts/Working Groups are independent human rights experts appointed by the United Nations Human Rights Council. Together, these experts are referred to as the Special Procedures of the Human Rights Council. Special Procedures experts work on a voluntary basis; they are not UN staff and do not receive a salary for their work. While the UN Human Rights office acts as the secretariat for Special Procedures, the experts serve in their individual capacity and are independent from any government or organization, including OHCHR and the UN. Any views or opinions presented are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of the UN or OHCHR. Country-specific observations and recommendations by the UN human rights mechanisms, including the special procedures, the treaty bodies and the Universal Periodic Review, can be found on the Universal Human Rights Index https://uhri.ohchr.org/en/

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Israel's war minister threatens full-scale attack on Lebanon, demands Hezbollah disarmament

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 27 November 2025 5:35 PM

Israel's war minister, Israel Katz, has warned that Tel Aviv is prepared to launch a new war on Lebanon if the Hezbollah resistance movement does not surrender its weapons by the end of 2025.

Addressing Israel's Knesset, Katz claimed that Washington had given Beirut a deadline to disarm Hezbollah by year's end, but said he had no expectation that the group would surrender its weapons.

"I do not believe that Hezbollah will hand over its weapons voluntarily," he told lawmakers. "If Hezbollah does not give up its weapons by the year's end, we will work forcefully again in Lebanon. We will disarm them."

Katz added that the regime would not tolerate what he called threats to settlers living along the Lebanese border.

"We will not allow any threats against the inhabitants of the north, and maximum enforcement will continue and even intensify."

He also threatened an escalation of Israeli strikes on Beirut.

"As we proved a few days ago with the elimination - there will be no calm in Beirut, nor order and stability in Lebanon, until the security of Israel is guaranteed," Katz said, referring to Israel's assassination of Hezbollah commander Haitham Ali al-Tabtabai in Beirut's southern suburbs days earlier.

Over the weekend, Israel killed al-Tabtabai and four other Hezbollah members in an airstrike on Beirut that also injured dozens of civilians, including women and children.

A senior Hezbollah official responded that Israel "should be worried" after the attack, while the Lebanese government is reportedly urging the resistance group not to retaliate.

Meanwhile, Lebanese media reported on Thursday that Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty "delivered a clear threat" to Beirut during his recent visit.

According to Al-Akhbar, Abdelatty warned Lebanese officials that the country is on the brink of facing a massive Israeli bombing campaign and potential ground invasion.

The newspaper said officials were taken aback by the unusually severe tone, noting that the foreign minister made no mention of Egypt's earlier de-escalation plan and instead "appeared to support Israeli demands for disarmament before any agreement."

"There are no limits to the escalation that Israel may resort to," Abdelatty reportedly told Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri.

"I discussed the matter with Israeli officials, and they informed me that they have decided to launch an attack against Lebanon that would not be limited to an airstrike, but would also include a ground operation and the targeting of hundreds of sites," Abdelatty was quoted as saying.

Israel has sharply escalated its strikes on Lebanon in recent weeks, claiming Hezbollah is rapidly rebuilding its military capabilities. The regime has issued multiple US-backed threats of a broad war on Lebanon.

In August, Hezbollah rejected a Lebanese cabinet decision, taken under intense US pressure that called for the group's full disarmament by the end of this year.

The movement maintains it is willing to discuss a national defensive strategy that would eventually integrate its weapons into the Lebanese army, but insists no talks can take place while Israel continues its attacks and occupies areas in southern Lebanon.

Since the ceasefire was reached in November last year, Israel has killed more than 300 people in Lebanon. Over the past month alone, Israeli attacks have killed more than three dozen people.

Washington, meanwhile, is pressuring the Lebanese state to forcibly disarm Hezbollah, even at the risk of internal conflict, and has publicly backed Israeli threats, warning that Lebanon faces a major assault if the resistance does not surrender its weapons.

Responding to the spiraling tensions, Lebanese lawmaker Hassan Fadlallah stressed that there is no room for any political dialogue with Israel while it continues to violate the truce.

"No political proposal has yet been presented to Lebanon that can effectively stop the aggression of the occupiers," Fadlallah said, condemning US-led Western interference in Lebanon's internal affairs.

"What foreign and international parties are offering to Lebanon is either aimed at continuing the Zionist killings and aggression's or Lebanon's complete surrender to the enemy."

He added that Hezbollah "will never let Israel and its mercenaries return to the 1982 situation," referring to the Israeli invasion during Lebanon's civil war that saw Beirut besieged and massacres carried out across the country.

Fadlallah stressed that Lebanon "will not be an easy prey" in the face of any new Israeli aggression.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Hamas slams systematic killing, torture of Palestinian detainees in Israeli prisons

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 27 November 2025 11:00 AM

The Palestinian resistance movement Hamas has condemned the systematic killing and torture of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails as "full-fledged war crimes," urging the international community to act.

In a statement on Thursday, Hamas slammed Israel for deliberately transforming its detention facilities into venues of systematic killing and torture of Palestinian detainees.

It stressed that since the start of the occupying regime's genocidal war on the besieged Gaza Strip in October 2023, dozens of Palestinian detainees have been killed and many more subjected to brutal mistreatment as part of an organized campaign of repression.

According to Hamas, at least 94 Palestinians have died while in Israeli custody since October 2023, with survivors and human rights groups reporting shocking abuses with details, including severe beatings, scalding with boiling water, dog attacks, sexual violence, as well as denial of food, sleep, and medical care.

"This reflects an organized criminal approach that has turned these prisons into direct killing grounds to eliminate our people," the statement read.

Hamas also decried the Israeli practices as "full-fledged war crimes under international humanitarian law that expose the brutal nature of the (Israeli) occupation's regime."

The Gaza-based resistance group also urged the United Nations, international rights organizations, and the global community to pressure Israel into halting these abuses and ensuring detainees' rights under international law.

Current estimates suggest more than 10,000 Palestinians, including women and children, are being held in Israeli prisons.

Israel has killed nearly 70,000 Palestinians and wounded at least 170,000 others in the Gaza Strip since October 2023, when it launched its genocidal war on the territory.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Israel kills 6 more Palestinians in Gaza as Hamas warns of attacks on trapped fighters in Rafah

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 27 November 2025 7:42 AM

Israel has killed six more Palestinians in the besieged Gaza Strip despite a ceasefire supposedly in effect in the war-torn territory, further deepening the territory's humanitarian catastrophe.

The Israeli military took the lives of six more Palestinians in areas within the so-called yellow line on Wednesday, continuing assaults in violation of the ceasefire that took effect on October 10.

Medical sources reported civilian deaths from Israeli bombings in the Maghazi camp and Bani Suheila in Khan Yunnis, underscoring Israel's ongoing targeting of civilians.

Meanwhile, the Tel Aviv regime claimed to have killed several Hamas fighters and detained two others in Rafah, with the regime's minister for military affairs, Israel Katz, escalating rhetoric and operations.

He said he ordered the military to "destroy and wipe out" every Hamas tunnel in Gaza "down to the last one," stressing that eliminating the tunnel network is central to Israel's agenda in the so-called yellow zone - an area that already constitutes more than half of the territory under Israeli control.

In a statement, Hamas condemned Israel's pursuit, killing, and arrest of its fighters trapped in Rafah tunnels, calling it a blatant breach of the ceasefire and clear proof of Israel's intent to sabotage all attempts at stability.

The "pursuit, liquidation, and arrest of the fighters besieged in the tunnels of Rafah" serves as conclusive evidence of ongoing attempts to undermine and destroy the ceasefire, it stressed.

The resistance movement emphasized that for the past month it had coordinated with mediators and the US administration to secure the safe return of its besieged members, offering concrete proposals, all of which Israel obstructed by choosing "killing, crime, persecution, and arrest."

Hamas said the Israeli occupation bears full responsibility for the fighters' fate and urged mediators to act immediately to pressure "Israel" to ensure their safe return.

Hamas fighters are a "unique symbol of sacrifice, resilience, heroism, and a representation of the dignity and freedom of the Palestinian people," the statement concluded.

According to the Gaza Government Media Office, Israel has violated the truce at least 500 times since it came into effect, killing and wounding hundreds of Palestinians in the process.

Israel has killed nearly 70,000 Palestinians and wounded at least 170,000 others in Gaza since October 2023.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Israeli forces kill Palestinian youth in Jenin amid multi-city West Bank raids

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 27 November 2025 6:34 AM

Israeli occupation forces killed a young Palestinian man during an incursion in Jenin as simultaneous military raids across the occupied West Bank left multiple other Palestinians injured and detained, local officials said.

The Palestinian news agency WAFA, citing the Ministry of Health, identified the 20-year-old victim as Osama Kmeil, stating he succumbed to his wounds after being shot during an Israeli military incursion into the city of Qabatiya late on Wednesday.

According to local sources, Kmeil was shot in the abdomen in the downtown area of the city. He was urgently taken to a nearby hospital in critical condition, and doctors pronounced him dead shortly afterwards.

Witnesses said Israeli forces launched an offensive in the city earlier in the evening, deploying infantry units across residential streets and positioning sniper teams on rooftops.

Reports suggest that soldiers used live ammunition in several neighborhoods and raided at least one house, conducting searches within.

Elsewhere in the city of Tubas, an elderly man was injured after being assaulted by Israeli occupation soldiers

Medical sources from the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) said its crews in Tubas transferred the 85-year-old man to a hospital after he was severely beaten by Israeli troops.

Furthermore, a young Palestinian man was injured by Israeli forces' fire during a military incursion into Shu'fat refugee camp in east al-Quds on Wednesday evening.

Earlier in the day, Israeli military forces detained 32 Palestinians, injured 10 others and forced dozens of families to evacuate their homes during a wide-scale military offensive in the northern West Bank.

The raids targeted the city of Tubas, the towns of Tammoun and Aqaba, and the al-Far'a refugee camp, according to local officials.

Palestinians across the West Bank have faced a wave of intensified Israeli military and settler violence in the shadow of Israel's Gaza war, which has killed nearly 70,000 people in the coastal territory since October 2023.

Rights groups have been warning for months that Palestinians in the West Bank faced a heightened risk of ethnic cleansing amid the violence.

In July 2024, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled that Israel's prolonged occupation of historic Palestine was illegal.

The ICJ called for the removal of all current settlements in the West Bank and East al-Quds.

Although the court's advisory opinion is not legally binding, it carries significant political weight as the first time the ICJ has expressed a view on the legality of the 57year occupation.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Three Chinese Nationals Killed In Afghan-Tajik Border Attack On Gold Mining Camp

By RFE/RL's Tajik Service November 27, 2025

DUSHANBE -- Three Chinese citizens working for a gold-extraction company in southern Tajikistan have been killed in an attack -- the second in a year -- that Tajik authorities say was carried out from across the border with Afghanistan.

Tajikistan's Foreign Ministry said in a statement on November 27 that the assault targeted a compound belonging to Shohin SM, a private gold-mining company operating in the Shamsiddin Shohin district along the Tajik-Afghan frontier.

Tajikistan and Afghanistan's Taliban have engaged in a flurry of diplomacy in recent months to ease tensions and prevent armed clashes along their long, shared border.

According to the ministry, the attackers used firearms and a drone equipped with an explosive device to strike the workers' facility.

"As a result of the attack, three employees of Shohin SM, all Chinese citizens, were killed," the statement said.

Since the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan in 2021, Dushanbe and Kabul have accused each other of harboring armed groups.

Tajikistan was the only neighboring country to publicly oppose the Taliban's return to power, calling the militant group a threat to regional stability.

In particular, Dushanbe has long expressed concern about factions affiliated with the Islamic State-Khorasan Province (ISKP), Central Asian extremist networks, and armed criminal gangs hiding in Afghan territory.

In November last year, Tajik authorities said armed groups carried out an attack in the same sector, killing one Chinese citizen and injuring five others, including four Chinese nationals and one Tajik man.

The incident also comes amid growing anti-Chinese sentiment in several parts of Central Asia, a strategic and energy-rich region where China has become a key economic and political player.

Tajikistan's Foreign Ministry "strongly condemned" both the cross-border incursion and the killing of foreign nationals, urging Afghanistan's Taliban authorities to "take effective measures to ensure stability and security along the border."

The statement said that despite Tajik authorities' "continuous efforts to maintain security and create conditions for mutually beneficial cooperation" in border regions, criminal groups operating inside Afghanistan "continue destabilizing actions" along the border.

Meanwhile, on November 27, Afghanistan's Taliban-run Interior Ministry announced that a delegation led by the governor of the country's Badakhshan province and a senior commander in the Taliban border forces, Maulavi Abdul Mannan Hasan, had traveled to Tajikistan.

According to the Taliban statement, the delegation met officials in Tajikistan's Badakhshan region to discuss cross-border cooperation and security coordination. Tajikistan's Foreign Ministry has not publicly acknowledged the visit.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/tajikistan- afghanistan-border-attack-chinese-nationals-death- gold-mining-taliban/33607228.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.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Refugees Paying Heavy Toll For Afghan Taliban, Pakistan Tensions

By RFE/RL's Radio Azadi and RFE/RL's Radio Mashaal November 27, 2025

Summary

Pakistan is forcibly deporting thousands of Afghan refugees, including those born and raised in the country, citing security concerns and blaming Afghans for attacks on its forces.

Deported Afghans report harassment, abuse, and poor detention conditions by Pakistani authorities, with many forced to leave behind belongings and livelihoods.

The mass deportations have created a humanitarian crisis in parts of Afghanistan, overwhelming local infrastructure and leaving returnees vulnerable amid harsh winter conditions.

Salman is deeply disturbed as he awaits his fate inside a detention center in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore.

The 22-year-old is being forced to return to Afghanistan, the country of his parents.

But he has never seen the mountainous South Asian nation, which is now emerging from more than four decades of war. He was born and raised in Pakistan, but authorities in the country are now forcing him to return to a country he has never seen.

"I have lived in Pakistan all this time, but it's given me nothing," he told RFE/RL's Radio Mashaal.

Earlier this month, police in Lahore arrested him during a random search and locked him up.

"I was not provided food during those two nights," he said of the conditions during his police detention, where he was kept in a dark room.

He was then moved to a squalid detention center from where he will be forced into Afghanistan, some 600 kilometers away.

Salman is among the tens of thousands of Afghans involuntarily returned to their country every week as Pakistan goes ahead with plans to repatriate all Afghan refugees and migrants back into Afghanistan.

Senior Pakistani officials have blamed Afghans for participating in attacks on Pakistani security forces.

Islamabad has repeatedly demanded that the Taliban government in Afghanistan cease support for the Tehrike Taliban Pakistan (TTP), a rebel group fighting in northwestern Pakistan along the border with Afghanistan.

A cease-fire between the two is now under tremendous strain.

On November 25, the Taliban government blamed Pakistan for air strikes that killed at least 10 people in eastern Afghanistan.

The Taliban and Pakistan's powerful military, which were erstwhile allies, almost went to war last month. As Pakistan launched air strikes against the Afghan capital and the southern city of Kandahar, tensions along their 2,500-kilometer border turned into clashes.

"The brave people of Pakistan, who have lost loved ones in the war against terrorism, now ask: How long will the government continue to bear the burden of Afghan refugees?" Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif saidlast month.

But for many ordinary Afghan refugees and migrants living in Pakistan such as Salman, the forced return is a calamity.

Pakistan is the only country they have known. Some have established successful businesses while others eke out a living by doing manual labor jobs locals don't want.

Most returning Afghans complain of harassment by the Pakistani authorities. They particularly accuse the police of high-handedness, bribes, and stealing their belongings.

"Nobody is speaking up against this country's cruel policies and abuse by its police," said Jaffar Shah, who is also detained in Lahore.

Shah says the police seek out vulnerable Afghans, mostly laborers or street vendors, in major Pakistani cities. They harass them, rob them of their money and belongings during detention, and then force them back to their country.

A Humanitarian Crisis

Millions of Afghans around the world are being either directly forced to return by states where they have been residing, or have felt compelled to do so because of threats, harassment, and intimidation.

The situation has sparked a humanitarian crisis in some parts of impoverished Afghanistan where returning refugees have overwhelmed local infrastructure.

In July, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk called for an immediate halt to the forcible return of all Afghan refugees and asylum-seekers, particularly those at risk of persecution, arbitrary detention, or torture upon their return.

Pakistan has hosted one of the largest refugee populations in modern history by welcoming millions of Afghans after the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in December 1979.

Some returned to their country in the 1990s, and after the collapse of the first Taliban government in late 2001.

Yet before a new drive to expel undocumented Afghans in late 2023, UNHCR, the UN refugee agency, estimated 1.4 million documented and as many undocumented Afghans lived in Pakistan.

The UNHCR estimates that out of these, more than 1.7 million had returned to Afghanistan by the beginning of this month.

As cold weather gripped Afghanistan, the returns and deportations have dramatically increased, even among the estimated 600,000 who fled the Taliban's return to power in 2021.

Denying Afghans' Rights

Islamabad has not signed the 1951 UN Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees or the 1967 Protocol on the Status of Refugees.

This has enabled subsequent Pakistani governments to deny Afghans rights or a pathway to naturalization.

"We were beaten and forced into trucks, which brought us here," Maryam, a young Afghan mother, told RFE/RL's Radio Azadi from a detention center in the capital, Islamabad, on November 25.

"There are pregnant women and newborns among those detained here," she added.

This week, Pakistani authorities rounded up Maryam and some 300 Afghan families who have been protesting in a park in Islamabad for months against their possible forced repatriation to Afghanistan.

"Lately Pakistan has been arresting, humiliating. and treating Afghans inhumanely, which is not acceptable under international norms and laws," Fahim Farwak, an Afghan rights activist, told Radio Azadi.

Relentless harassment prompts Afghans to leave the country for good.

"My advice to all Afghans will be to never go to Pakistan because they will get nothing here," Salman said in the detention center in Lahore.

Written by Abubakar Siddique based on reporting by RFE/RL's Radio Mashaal and RFE/RL's Radio Azadi

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/refugees-toll-afghan- taliban-pakistan-tensions/33606263.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.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Statement on latest developments in Guinea-Bissau

Spain - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

PRESS STATEMENT 119

27 Nov 25

Spain expresses its concern about the events unfolding in Guinea-Bissau and calls for calm, dialogue and respect for the country's democratic and constitutional norms.

Spain reiterates its firm commitment to democracy in Guinea-Bissau and hopes for a swift return to institutional normality, allowing the electoral process to resume after the elections held on Sunday 23 November.

The Spanish Government is monitoring the situation of Spanish nationals in the country through the Spanish Embassy in Bissau, which is taking the appropriate measures in line with developments.



-NON OFFICIAL TRANSLATION-

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






E4 statement on the situation in the West Bank

News story

Joint statement on behalf of France, Germany, Italy and the UK on the situation in the West Bank

From: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and The Rt Hon Yvette Cooper MP

Published 27 November 2025

We - France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom - strongly condemn the massive increase of settler violence against Palestinian civilians and call for stability in the West Bank. Destabilising activity risks undermining the success of the 20 Point Plan for Gaza and prospects for long-term peace and security.

The number of attacks has reached new heights, with 264 attacks in October according to OCHA, the largest number of settlers' attacks in a single month since the United Nations began recording such incidents in 2006.

These attacks must stop. They sow terror among civilians, they are harmful to the ongoing peace efforts and for the lasting security of the State of Israel itself.

We, ministers of France, Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom, call on the Government of Israel to abide by its obligations under international law and protect the Palestinian population of the occupied territories. The condemnation of violence by President Herzog, Prime Minister Netanyahu, and other senior political and military figures must be translated into action. We therefore urge the Government of Israel to hold those accountable who are responsible for those crimes and to prevent further violence by addressing the root causes of this behaviour.

We welcome President Trump's clear opposition to annexation, and reiterate our opposition to any form of annexation - whether partial, total or de facto - and settlement policies violating international law.

After the official approval of the E1 settlement in August 2025, that would fragment the West Bank, more than 3000 house units' projects have been approved over the last three weeks, mounting to 28 000 new housing units approved since January, an all-time high. We call upon the Government of Israel to reverse its policy.

The Government of Israel's continued denial of tax revenues which belong to the Palestinian Authority is unjustifiable. The Government of Israel must release the tax-revenues, extend the correspondent banking system between Israeli and Palestinian banks and allow increased Shekel transfers. These steps are essential for the Palestinian citizens and the PA's ability to provide public services. Weakening the PA undermines its ability to deliver its reform agenda and to take on responsibility in Gaza, as envisioned in UN Security Council Resolution 2803. A financial collapse of the PA would only harm regional stability and the security of Israel itself.

We reaffirm our commitment to a just and comprehensive resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, based on the two-state solution, with the State of Israel and an independent, democratic, contiguous, sovereign, and viable State of Palestine, living side by side in peace and security and mutual recognition. We reaffirm that there is no alternative to a negotiated two-state solution.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Mass displacement, trafficking fears deepen crisis in Sudan's El Fasher

By Vibhu Mishra

27 November 2025 - The humanitarian crisis in Sudan's El Fasher remains dire as mass displacement accelerates and aid access stays restricted, amid warnings of widespread trafficking, sexual violence and the recruitment of children.

UN agencies say conditions are deteriorating further across North Darfur and neighbouring Kordofan, while independent human rights experts on Thursday warned that the collapse of protection following the city's fall has sharply increased the risks facing women and children.

The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) seized control of El Fasher - the capital of Sudan's North Darfur state - on 26 October after an 18-month siege that cut residents off from food, medicine and other critical supplies. The city had been the government's last major stronghold in the Darfur region.

According to the UN World Food Programme (WFP), families who fled the fighting are now scattered across five locations surrounding El Fasher, including Tawila, while others have reached more distant areas such as Dabbah in Northern State and even the national capital, Khartoum.

Currently, 1,485 metric tons of food and nutrition supplies - enough for about 130,000 people - are en route to Tawila through the Dabbah Crossing, adding to ongoing assistance for those displaced earlier this year.

Renewed fighting in Kordofan

Meanwhile, renewed fighting in the Kordofan region is driving further large-scale displacement.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported that more than 1,800 people were displaced in South Kordofan on Tuesday alone, while in North Kordofan nearly 40,000 people were uprooted between 25 October and 18 November.

Sudan's war erupted in April 2023 following a power struggle between the RSF and the national Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). It quickly devolved into one of the world's worst humanitarian crises, marked by famine, mass displacement and widespread atrocities.

Trafficking concerns

Against this backdrop, independent human rights experts expressed alarm on Thursday at reports of trafficking of women and girls for sexual exploitation and sexual slavery, and the recruitment of children as fighters, particularly since the RSF takeover of El Fasher.

"We are deeply concerned at the alarming reports of human trafficking since the takeover of El Fasher and surrounding areas by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF)," the experts said.

"Women and girls have been abducted in RSF-controlled areas, and women, unaccompanied and separated children are at elevated risk of sexual violence and sexual exploitation."

Since the siege of El Fasher began in May 2024, more than 470,000 people have been displaced multiple times from camps including Shagra, Zamzam and Abu Shouk. Across Sudan, nearly 12 million people - about half of them children - are now forcibly displaced or have fled to neighbouring countries, with sexual violence reported in conflict zones nationwide.

The experts - who are mandated and appointed by the Geneva-based Human Rights Council and are not UN staff - cited multiple incidents of rape and sexual abuse near RSF checkpoints and at sites sheltering displaced people, including the reported gang-rape of 25 women near El Fasher University.

They urged all parties to immediately halt violations against civilians and called on Member States to take urgent action following the Human Rights Council's recent special session on the situation in and around El Fasher.

UN envoy to press for dialogue

Meanwhile, the UN Secretary-General's Personal Envoy for Sudan, Ramtane Lamamra, is preparing to travel to Port Sudan and Addis Ababa next week to press for renewed political dialogue. He is expected to focus on the urgent need for civilian protection and unhindered humanitarian access across Darfur and Kordofan.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Russo-Ukraine War - 27 November 2025 - Day 1373

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 UK Ministry of Defence reported that the Russian authorities have been directed to build Russian identity and increase the use of the Russian language in the territory it illegally occupies in Ukraine, according to a decree signed by Russian President Putin, published on 25 November 2025.

The document, titled 'Strategy of Russia's national policy in the period to 2036, highlights a continued Russification policy, forcing Russian language, identity and culture on to the residents of sovereign Ukrainian territory. The policy forms part of Russia's longstanding efforts to extirpate Ukrainian culture and identity, and delegitimise Ukrainian statehood.

Russia now defines both occupied and unoccupied Ukrainian territory in the Ukrainian oblasts of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, as well as Crimea, as being part of the Russian Federation. This directly contradicts Russia's own formal recognition of Ukraine's independence and sovereignty following the collapse of the Soviet Union.

The document's reference to these sovereign Ukrainian oblasts as 'historical territories of the Russian state' emphasises the overtly imperialist aspect of Russia's continuing efforts to subjugate Ukraine.

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that in total, since the beginning of this day, there have been 231 encounters.

Russian Zagarbniki have succeeded 25 aviation strikes, dropping 78 controlled air bombs. In addition, the Russians have engaged 1727 kamikaze drones and carried out 2,535 shelling positions of Ukrainian troops and settlements.

In the North Slobozhansky and Kursky directions, Ukrainian soldiers repelled eight Russian assault actions since the beginning of the day. The Russian enemy also launched two air strikes using six controlled air bombs and carried out 121 shelling.

In the South Slobozhansky direction, the Russian opponent attacked the positions of Ukrainian defenders six times and received a blockade near Vovchansky, Barnny and Dvorichansky.

In the Kupyansky direction, Russian units carried out six assault actions, trying to break through the positions of Ukrainian defenders in the direction of settlements Petropavlivka, Mala Shapkivka, Pishchnya, Novoplatonivka. One battle is still going on.

In the Lyman direction since the beginning of the day, Russian zagarbniki 29 times attacked the positions of Ukrainians near the settlements of Grekivka, Karpivka, Novoyegorivka, Medium, Novoselivka, Shandrigolove, Torske and towards the New Peace, Glushchenkovy, Druzhelyubivka, Olgivka, Pond, Drobishevo, Oleksandrivka. At the moment, Ukrainian defenders repel the Russian attacks in nine locations.

In the Slovenian direction, Russian forces tried to break through 13 times in the areas of settlements Yampil, Dronivka, Serebryanka, Viymka, Fedorivka and in the direction of Zakitny. One battle is still going on.

In the Kramatorsky direction, there were three clashes in the area of Chasovoy Yar and in the direction of Bondarnoy, one of which is still ongoing.

In the direction of Konstantinivsk, Russians attacked the positions of Defense Forces 27 times. The efforts of the attack were concentrated in the directions of Konstantinivka, Ivanopil, Stepanivka and in the areas of the settlements of Pleschievka, Rusin Yar. One confrontation is currently underway.

Since the beginning of the day in the Pokrovsky direction, Russian units 58 times tried to break through Ukrainian defense in the areas of settlements Shahove, New Shahove, Zatishok, Chervonyi Liman, Rodinske, Mirnograd, Novoekonomicne, Picnna, Zvirove, Kotline, Udacne, Molodetske, Novomikolaivka, Dachne and in the directions of Grishiny and Novopavlivka. Four fighting clashes are going on so far.

Defense Forces deter Russian attacks, the Russian enemy suffers significant losses - today 150 Russian invaders have been defecated in this direction, of which 108 are irrevocable. Ukrainian defenders destroyed an infantry fighting vehicle, nine motor vehicles, six unmanned aircraft, a special equipment unit and two occupant shelters, also struck two motor transport units, two special equipment units and 12 Russian personnel shelters.

In the Oleksandrivsky direction, Ukrainian units stopped 19 Russian attacks on the positions of Ukrainian troops near the settlements of Yalta, Andriyivka-Klevtsove, Verbove, Privilne, Ribne, Green Grove, Piddubne, Vorone, Stepove, Krasnogirsk and in the direction of Oleksiyivka.

In the Gulyaipil direction, Ukrainian defenders stopped 16 Russian attempts to advance near settlements of Zatishya, Solodke, Chervone and in the direction of settlements of Dobropillya, Pryluki, Varvarivka, Gulyaipole. The four Russian attacks are still going on. Aviation strikes were hit by settlements of Ternuvate and Gulyaipole.

In the Orihivsky direction, Ukrainian units stopped seven Russian attacks on the positions of Ukrainian troops in the direction of Novoandriyivka, Stepnogirsk, Primorsky and in the area of Kamiansky and Stepovoye. Another battle is underway.

In the pridniprovsk direction, the Russian opponent did not carry out offensive actions, but caused an air strike on pridniprovs komu.

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 two mechanised brigades, an air assault brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and a territorial defence brigade near Sadki, Mogritsa, Miropolye, Alekseyevka, and Andreyevka (Sumy region).

In Kharkov direction, units of a mechanised brigade, a motorised infantry brigade, an assault regiment of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and a national guard brigade have been hit near Volchansk, Vilcha, Staritsa, and Udy (Kharkov region).

The enemy lost more than 135 troops and 12 motor vehicles.

The Zapad Group of Forces improved the tactical situation. Strikes were delivered at manpower and hardware of an assault brigade, three mechanised brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, a territorial defence brigade, and a national guard brigade near Kurilovka, Boguslavka, Novoplatonovka, Podoly, Nechvolodovka, Blagodatovka (Kharkov region), Yarovaya, and Drobyshevo (Donetsk People's Republic).

The enemy losses amounted to up to 235 troops, eight armoured fighting vehicles including three U.S.-made HMMWV armoured vehicles, one U.S.-made 155-mm M777 howitzer, 21 motor vehicles, ten electronic warfare stations, one U.S.-made AN/TPQ-50 counter-fire radar, and two ammunition depots.

As a result of resolute actions, the Yug Group of Forces liberated Vasyukovka (Donetsk People's Republic).

Russian troops inflicted damage on formations of two mechanised brigades, a mountain assault brigade, an airmobile brigade, an assault brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine near Seversk, Zakotnoye, Kirovo, Bondarnoye, Berestok, Minkovka, Nikolayevka, Ivanopolye, Stepanovka, and Konstantinovka (Donetsk People's Republic).

The enemy lost more than 230 troops, a tank, seven armoured fighting vehicles including two U.S.-made HMMWV armoured vehicles, 15 motor vehicles, a Grad MLRS, and six artillery guns including three Western-made artillery pieces. A U.S.-made AN/TPQ-36 counter-fire radar, an Israel-made RADA radar, an electronic warfare station, and seven ammunition, materiel, and fuel depots were neutralised.

The Tsentr Group of Forces improved the situation along the front line. Russian elements inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of a heavy mechanised brigade, three mechanised brigades, an airmobile brigade, an air assault brigade, an assault brigade, two assault regiments of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, a marine brigade, and two national guard brigades close to Priyut, Novoaleksandrovka, Sergeyevka, Novy Donbass, Rodinskoye of the Donetsk People's Republic, Mezhevaya, and Novopavlovka (Dnepropetrovsk region).

In Krasnoarmeysk (Donetsk People's Republic), assault groups of the 2nd Army are successfully advancing northwards in Tsentralny and Dinas districts. Russian troops continue mopping up Ukrainian militants in Rovnoye (Donetsk People's Republic).

Eight attacks of the 425th Assault Regiment and the 95th Air Assault Brigade of the AFU in order to unblock an encircled Ukrainian group were repelled from the area of Grishino (Donetsk People's Republic). Up to 30 troops, a U.S.-made M113 armoured personnel carrier, and a Swedish-made Viking armoured fighting vehicle have been neutralised.

In Dimitrov (Donetsk People's Republic), assault detachments of the 51st Army continue to push the enemy out of Vostochny and Zapadny districts, and southern part of the town. One hundred and seventeen buildings have been liberated.

Over 275 servicemen, a tank, four armoured fighting vehicles, and a pickup truck have been neutralised during the day in Krasnoarmeysk direction.

In total, more than 465 troops, a tank, nine armoured fighting vehicles, and five motor vehicles have been neutralised in the Tsentr Group's area of responsibility.

The Vostok Group of Forces continued advancing into the depth of enemy defence. One mechanised brigade, two assault brigades, three assault regiments of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and two territorial defence brigades have been hit near Vozdvizhenka, Malinovka, Dobropolye, Gulyaypole (Zaporozhye region), and Otradnoye (Dnepropetrovsk region).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 210 troops, two tanks, 14 motor vehicles, a self-propelled artillery system, and an electronic warfare station.

The Dnepr Group of Forces inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of a mechanised brigade, a mountain assault brigade, a coastal defence brigade of the AFU near Novoandreyevka, Stepnogorsk (Zaporozhye region), Antonovka, Otradokamenka, Nikolskoye (Kherson region), and Kherson.

Up to 80 troops, 15 motor vehicles, five electronic warfare stations, and three ammunition, materiel, and fuel depots have been neutralised.

Operational-Tactical Aviation, attack UAVs, Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Groups of Forces have inflicted damage on warehouses and command posts of unmanned aerial vehicles, a satellite communication centre, Ukrainian energy facilities used by the Armed Forces of Ukraine, as well as temporary deployment areas of Ukrainian armed formations and foreign mercenaries in 148 areas.

Air defence systems shot down five guided aerial bombs, eight U.S.-made HIMARS MLRS projectiles, a Neptune long-range missile, and 263 fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles.

In total, since the beginning of the special military operation the enemy has lost 668 aircraft, 283 helicopters, 99,114 unmanned aerial vehicles, 638 anti-aircraft missile systems, 26,294 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,621 MLRS combat vehicles, 31,587 field artillery guns and mortars, and 47,814 units of support military vehicles have been neutralised.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






CAFCYBERCOM participates in NATO's Exercise CYBER COALITION 25

National Defence

News release

November 27, 2025 - Ottawa - National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

The Canadian Armed Forces Cyber Command (CAFCYBERCOM) will participate in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) Exercise CYBER COALITION 25 from November 28 to December 6, 2025.

Exercise CYBER COALITION, conducted from multiple locations worldwide, is NATO's premier annual collective cyber defence event and one of the largest of its kind globally. Exercise scenarios will simulate malicious cyber incidents targeting national infrastructure, government services, and military systems to test detection, response, and mitigation capabilities.

Participation in international cyber exercises reinforces Canada's commitment to a secure, free, and open digital environment. Through training opportunities like Exercise CYBER COALITION 25, Canada supports NATO's evolving cyber standards, strengthens regional stability, and helps counter malign cyber activity worldwide.

As the cyber domain grows more complex, CAFCYBERCOM is ready - with people, tools, and partnerships - to help keep Canada secure in the digital age while strengthening global cyber defence with our allies and partners.

Quotes

"Through our participation in Exercise CYBER COALITION, we demonstrate Canada's commitment to collective cyber defence and to working closely with our North Atlantic Treaty Organization Allies to protect shared digital spaces. By exercising interoperability and readiness in realistic scenarios, the Canadian Armed Forces are prepared to defend Canada and its partners against evolving cyber threats."  Major-General Dave Yarker, Commander, Canadian Armed Forces Cyber Command

Quick facts

Exercise CYBER COALITION is an annual NATO cyber defence exercise, which brings together NATO Allies, partner nations, and organizations to strengthen cooperation, resilience, and readiness in cyberspace.

The CAFCYBERCOM will deploy a Cyber Protection Team to Tallinn, Estonia, to work with France's Centre d'analyse en lutte informatique defensive. A Cyber Planning and Liaison Element will also be embedded, supporting NATO coordination and interoperability efforts.

In addition to Defence Team participants, cyber experts from Transport Canada, Global Affairs Canada, Public Safety Canada, Quebec's ministere de la Cybersecurite et du Numerique, the Centre gouvernemental de cyberdefense, and Hydro-Quebec will contribute remotely from Ottawa, reinforcing Canada's whole-of-government approach to cybersecurity.

CAFCYBERCOM leads all Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) cyber operations, electronic warfare, and signals intelligence. It helps protect Canada's digital systems, carries out cyber operations and supports CAF operations at home and abroad.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Trump administration pauses immigration applications from Afghans after DC shooting

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 27 November 2025 10:44 AM

The Trump administration has paused immigration applications for Afghans following a shooting in Washington, D.C. that wounded two National Guard members.

"Effective immediately, processing of all immigration requests relating to Afghan nationals is stopped indefinitely pending further review of security and vetting protocols," the US Citizenship and Immigration Services announced on Wednesday in a statement posted on X.

This comes hours after two West Virginia National Guard troops were shot near the White House in Washington. The suspect is reportedly an Afghan refugee.

"The suspect in the shooting of the two National Guard members is 29-year-old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal, who entered the US in 2021. The suspect used a handgun to carry out the attack," two law enforcement officials told US media.

The latest suspension comes amid a larger anti-immigration policy under the Trump administration, which has capped refugee admissions at a record-low 7,500 for the 2026 fiscal year.

President Trump has also ordered the review of all refugees admitted to the United States during the Biden administration, citing security concerns.

The move, which critics have described as unnecessary and cruel, could affect more than 200,000 Afghans already in the country, including green card holders.

Since Trump's return to office, Afghan refugees who supported US forces during the 20year war (2001-2021) have been largely barred from entering the United States.

The US evacuated tens of thousands of people from Afghanistan in 2021 following an irresponsible withdrawal.

More than 85,000 Afghans were ultimately resettled in the United States under Operation Allies Welcome, many of them first housed on military bases while undergoing processing.

A portion qualified for Special Immigrant Visas, offered to those employed by the US government, such as interpreters facing possible retaliation from the Taliban.

Other evacuees sought asylum or applied for family-based visas, while many received temporary protections, including humanitarian parole or temporary protected status, which do not provide a direct pathway to permanent residency.

According to American media outlets, Lakanwal was paroled into the US on humanitarian grounds in 2021.

The nonprofit AfghanEvac condemned Wednesday's attack but urged the public "not to demonize the Afghan community for the deranged choice this person made."

AfghanEvac President Shawn VanDiver said immigrants from Afghanistan "undergo some of the most extensive security vetting of any population entering the country."

He said those "who would twist this moment to attack Afghan families aren't seeking safety or justice  they're exploiting division and endangering all of us."

The Trump administration has also terminated a program that shielded thousands of Afghans from deportation. The temporary protected status initiative, which provided work permits to migrants when US officials deemed their home countries unsafe.

Critics say Afghans who helped the US forces are at risk of persecution, torture, or death if they return to Afghanistan, where the Taliban regained power after the US withdrawal.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






PhilSA warns vs. possible debris from Korean rocket launch

Philippine News Agency

By Ma. Cristina Arayata

November 27, 2025, 3:55 pm

MANILA -- The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) on Thursday warned the public against possible debris from a rocket launch from South Korea.

The Nuri, also known as Nuri/Korea Space Launch Vehicle-IV (KSLV-IV) was launched from the Naro Space Center in Goheung, South Jeolla, at around 12:13 a.m. PhST.

PhilSA said debris from the rocket launch could have fallen within these drop zones: approximately 390 nautical miles (NM) away from Santa Ana, Cagayan, 394 NM away from Babuyan Island, 218 NM away from Siargao, Surigao del Norte, 228 NM away from the City of Mati, Davao Oriental, and 232 NM away from Mercedes, Samar.

Unburned debris from rockets, such as the booster and fairing, is designed to be discarded as the rocket enters outer space.

"Falling debris poses danger and potential risk to ships, aircraft, fishing boats, and other vessels that will pass through the drop zone," the advisory read.

Debris could possibly float around the area and wash toward nearby coasts.

The public is advised to inform local authorities of suspected sighting of debris.

They are also cautioned against retrieving or coming in close contact with these materials that may contain remnants of toxic substances such as rocket fuel. (PNA)

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Filipinos take to training like ducks to water

By Warrant Officer Class 2 Max Bree

27 November 2025

Australian soldiers demonstrating small-boat tactics quickly learned there was no margin for error when instructing Filipino marines.

"Your demonstrations have to be on point, because they'll copy them," said Sergeant Joel Baron, an infantryman from 5th/7th Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment (5/7RAR).

"For anyone coming over, make sure your drills are down pat, down to the small movements."

Sergeant Baron was the second-in-command (2IC) of a littoral and riverine training package run for Philippine marines at Ternate in the Philippines from October 19 to 31 that included planning, small boat ops and maintenance.

The 11 Australians found their Philippine counterparts most excited to learn how Aussies operate their boat formations and use hand signals to communicate on the water.

"Their boating skills themselves were excellent - they're really good on the tiller control. It was more about teaching the little drills," Sergeant Baron said.

This included the Australian method for towing, which the Filipinos adopted, along with more sequenced, man-overboard drills.

Each day, they also gradually introduced Australian safety planning processes that were translated to Tagalog and factored in available safety equipment.

Sergeant Baron said the combat-experienced Philippine marines did not want to lose any friends to training, and became very passionate about safety as the program progressed.

"At the start, they weren't wearing lifejackets for the rocky landings, but as soon as they saw we were doing it, and we were encouraging them, they all started wearing them," he said.

Meanwhile, the Australians were impressed with how the Philippine marines improvised to protect their boats, including a car tyre slung under the boat to shield the underside during rocky landings.

"That's something I'll have in my back pocket," Sergeant Baron said.

"When I get back to Australia, I'll show my soldiers how to do it."

Aussie soldiers were also impressed by the Philippine marines' dedication to their role - being at work early to rehearse drills, studying late at night, then coming with new questions.

To be a Philippine force recon marine takes more than a year of training, then they wait to complete an active combat mission and be qualified.

"It's like a brotherhood, you can see how proud they are of all the things they've done," Sergeant Baron said.

"They're tough individuals, but they're the most caring, kind people, and happy. They've experienced loss and they appreciate life so much more."

Training finished with a full-mission profile, planned by the Force Reconnaissance Regiment marines, based on translated Australian orders structures and activity briefs.

Australian contingent commander Captain Joel Scaramella was proud to have worked with his Philippine counterparts, who would soon be back on combat operations.

"Everything we did for this will essentially be used for operational capability. It was our honour to support that," he said.

The activity was conducted as part of a land mobile training team under the Joint Australian Training Team - Philippines.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






China-ASEAN Mid-and-junior Level Officer Exchange enhances mutual trust: Defense Spokesperson

Ministry of National Defense of the People's Republic of China

Source China Military Online

EditorChen Zhuo

Time2025-11-27 17:58:55

BEIJING, Nov. 27 -- The 4th China-ASEAN Mid-and-junior Level Officer Exchange was held in China from November 17 to 24, 2025, said Senior Colonel Jiang Bin, spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defense, at a regular press conference on Thursday.

According to the spokesperson, more than 30 mid-and-junior level officers from ASEAN countries participated in the event, where they exchanged views with their Chinese counterparts on historical memories, regional security and cooperation methods. They toured Nanjing, Hangzhou, Shanghai, and Kunshan, and visited military and civilian installations, gaining a first-hand experience of the outcomes of the Chinese path to modernization.

The spokesperson introduced that the China-ASEAN Mid-and-junior Level Officer Exchange serves as an important platform for the two sides to enhance mutual understanding and trust, and to carry forward the traditional friendship. Since its inception in 2019, the event has been widely welcomed and acclaimed by ASEAN countries.

"Participating mid-and-junior level officers have strengthened their sense of common responsibility to safeguard regional peace and stability through the exchange, injecting positive energy into building an even closer China-ASEAN community with a shared future," he said.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun's Regular Press Conference on November 27, 2025



Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China

Updated: November 27, 2025 19:09

China Daily: On November 27, the Chinese government released a white paper titled China's Arms Control, Disarmament and Non-Proliferation in the New Era. This is the first time in 20 years that the Chinese government has comprehensively stated China's policy on arms control, disarmament and non-proliferation by releasing a white paper. What is the background and significance for China to release this new white paper?

Guo Jiakun: China released white papers on arms control twice, in 1995 and 2005. 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, and the founding of the United Nations. At this crucial historical juncture, the white paper, China's Arms Control, Disarmament and Non-Proliferation in the New Era released by the Chinese government, is of great significance.

The current international security and arms control situation is complex and severe. Regional conflicts and turmoil are becoming more frequent, and the international arms race continues to escalate. Today, humanity again has to choose between peace and war, dialogue and confrontation, win-win cooperation and zero-sum game. It once again finds itself at a historic crossroads. The white paper systematically states China's views and policies on the international security and arms control situation in the new era, and comprehensively elaborates on China's positive endeavor, practical measures and remarkable achievements in constructively participating in the process of international arms control over the past 20 years, especially since the 18th National Congress of the CPC. It shows China's responsibility and commitment as a major country to actively take the lead in global security governance and safeguard international peace and security.

The white paper points out that China has always constructively participated in the process of international arms control, disarmament and non-proliferation, actively contributed China's wisdom, initiatives and solutions, and is committed to improving the international security environment, enhancing international security cooperation, resolving international security dilemmas and improving global security governance. China is committed to be a builder of world peace, a contributor to global development and a defender of international order.

Releasing the new white paper on arms control is a concrete measure for China to actively practice the Global Security Initiative and the Global Governance Initiative. No matter how the international landscape evolves, China will always stand on the side of peace and justice and is a staunch force for safeguarding world peace and security. China is willing to work with all peace-loving countries to advocate an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, consolidate and develop the international arms control system with the United Nations at its core, and build a community with a shared future for humanity.

CCTV: Prime Minister Takaichi said yesterday at the debate with opposition party leaders that "having renounced all rights and claims under the Treaty of San Francisco, we are not in a position to recognize Taiwan's legal status." Does China accept that statement?

Guo Jiakun: China's recovery of Taiwan is a victorious outcome of WWII and an integral part of the postwar international order. A series of instruments with legal effect under international law, including the Cairo Declaration, the Potsdam Proclamation, and the Japanese Instrument of Surrender, have all affirmed China's sovereignty over Taiwan. The question regarding the status of Taiwan was already resolved once and for all when the Chinese people won the victory of the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression in 1945. On October 1, 1949, the Central People's Government of the People's Republic of China (PRC) was established and has since been the sole legal government representing the whole of China. This is a change of government in which China, as a subject under international law, did not change and China's sovereignty and inherent territorial boundaries stayed unchanged. Thus, the government of the PRC naturally and fully enjoys and exercises China's sovereignty, including sovereignty over the Taiwan region. The 1972 Sino-Japanese Joint Statement states that "The Government of Japan recognizes the Government of the People's Republic of China as the sole legal Government of China. The Government of the People's Republic of China reiterates that Taiwan is an inalienable part of the territory of the People's Republic of China. 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."

The so-called "Treaty of San Francisco" was issued with the exclusion of important parties to the WWII, such as the PRC and the Soviet Union, in order to seek a separate peace deal with Japan. The document goes against the provision that each government pledges not to make a separate armistice or peace with the enemies in the Declaration by United Nations signed by 26 countries in 1942, including China, the U.S., the UK and the Soviet Union and violates the UN Charter and the basic principles of international law. Anything set out in the treaty, including on the sovereignty over Taiwan or the handling of the territory and sovereign rights of China as a non-signatory, is thus entirely illegal and null and void.

Prime Minister Takaichi deliberately chose not to mention the Cairo Declaration and the Potsdam Proclamationtwo international legal documents with full effect and underscored in the Sino-Japanese Joint Statement, the Treaty of Peace and Friendship Between China and Japan, and other other bilateral treaties and she singularly brought up the illegal and invalid "Treaty of San Francisco." That once again shows that the prime minister remains unwilling to own up to the wrongdoing and turn back from the erroneous course, and continues to damage the political foundation of China-Japan relations established under the spirit of the four political documents between the two countries, showing no regard for the authority of the UN and openly challenging the postwar international order and basic norms in international law, and even seeks to play up the so-called notion that Taiwan's status is undetermined. That just compounds the wrongdoing. China firmly rejects that and calls for utmost vigilance from the international community. We once again urge the Japanese side to reflect on and correct its wrongdoing, retract the erroneous remarks, and take practical steps to honor its commitments to China and do what is least expected of Japan as a UN member state.

Beijing Youth Daily: Last week, when attending the 20th G20 Summit, Premier Li Qiang announced that China and South Africa jointly launched the Initiative on Cooperation Supporting Modernization in Africa which has drawn much attention. Can you brief us on the main contents of the Initiative and China's considerations?

Guo Jiakun: Launching the Initiative on Cooperation Supporting Modernization in Africa was an important consensus reached between President Xi Jinping and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa during the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in September, 2024. At the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, Premier Li Qiang announced that China and South Africa jointly launched the Initiative, which received widespread attention and recognition from various parties. The international community widely believes that the Initiative reflects China's leading role in supporting Africa's modernization and will further enhance Africa's capacity for independent development, and inject strong impetus into the development and revitalization of the Global South.

The Initiative closely echoes the theme of the G20 Summit, focuses on the AU Agenda 2063, and responds to Africa's needs and aspirations. It calls upon the international community to uphold six principles in the cooperation with Africa: justice and equitability, openness and win-win, putting the people first, diversity and inclusiveness, sustainable development, and peace and security. The Initiative also lists areas such as trade facilitation, green development, poverty reduction and people's wellbeing, healthcare, climate change, localized development of enterprises, and value addition in the value chain as key areas of cooperation. The Initiative supports the African side in exploring modernization paths that suit their national conditions, and enhancing Africa's voice and representation in international affairs. This reflects the common call of African countries at present, and sends out a strong voice of the times to promote multilateralism.

China is a strong supporter and sincere companion of Africa's modernization. Supporting modernization in Africa is a common responsibility of the international community. China calls on all African countries and important development partners to actively support and participate in the Initiative, respect Africa's right to choose its path to modernization independently, support Africa's efforts to realize peace and development and make concrete contributions to Africa's early realization of modernization.

Shenzhen TV: It's reported that regarding Sanae Takaichi's statement in the debate with opposition party leaders, the leader of the main opposition party in Japan said that considering that Takaichi has stopped referring to a specific contingency example, she has "effectively retracted" her remarks. Does China share that observation?

Guo Jiakun: Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi's erroneous remarks seriously violated the spirit of the four political documents between China and Japan, eroded the political foundation of China-Japan relations, and triggered outrage among the Chinese people. "Stop referring to" is not the same as "retracting" the remarks. The two are completely different in nature. The Japanese side hopes to downplay Prime Minister Takaichi's erroneous remarks and make it go away by "not referring to" them. That is just self-deceiving and wishful thinking, and China would absolutely not accept that.

NHK: Reports suggest that U.S. President Trump asked Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi to lower the volume on Taiwan. Can you confirm if this was influenced by his earlier conversation with President Xi?

Guo Jiakun: The phone call between the leaders of the U.S. and Japan is a matter between the U.S. and Japan. I have no comment on that. The Taiwan question is China's internal affair which brooks no interference by any external forces.

CRI: Recently, UN Human Rights Council's Special Rapporteur on the negative impact of the unilateral coercive measures on the enjoyment of human rights Alena Douhan visited Cuba and pointed out in the preliminary findings that the U.S. sanctions have been substantially exacerbating the economic and humanitarian situation in Cuba and violated norms of international law. The Special Rapporteur called on the United States to lift all unilateral coercive measures applied to Cuba. What's China's comment?

Guo Jiakun: We noted relevant information. The Special Rapporteur's report is fully consistent with the UN General Assembly resolution calling for an end to the embargo imposed by the United States against Cuba that was once again overwhelmingly adopted last month.

China opposes the U.S.'s blockade and sanctions against Cuba. China urges the U.S. to heed the call for justice from the international community, immediately lift the blockade and sanctions against Cuba and remove the country from the list of "state sponsors of terrorism."

CCTV: It's reported that the recent flooding in Thailand has killed at least 41 people. What's China's comment? Are there any Chinese people among the dead or injured?

Guo Jiakun: The severe flooding triggered by days of torrential rains in southern Thailand has caused serious deaths and injuries and economic loss. Our hearts go out to the Thai people who have been affected. We believe that under the strong leadership of the Thai government, people in the affected area will rebuild from the disaster soon.

Based on our knowledge, so far there have been no Chinese deaths or injuries.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Outline of Xi's thought on strengthening military published

Ministry of National Defense of the People's Republic of China

Source Xinhuanet

EditorLin Congyi

Time2025-11-28 08:28:28

BUDAPEST, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- Chinese literary translator and writer Yu Zemin, who has lived in Hungary for more than three decades, received the Geza Szocs Cultural Connectivity Award on Thursday evening at a gala ceremony hosted by the Friends of Connectivity Foundation in Budapest.

Yu, known for translating works by Hungary's two Nobel Prize-winning authors as well as the poetry of Geza Szocs, said the award was a recognition of cultural bridges built between China and Hungary.

"I consider Hungary my second home," Yu said in his acceptance remarks. He thanked Hungarian literature for allowing him to serve as "a voice of Hungarian literature in China," and paid tribute to Szocs, whom he met in the 1990s.

"This award encourages me to continue translating Hungarian works, and ensures that we always remember this remarkable man," he added.

The ceremony marked the first edition of the Connectivity Awards established by the Friends of Connectivity Foundation, which was founded in 2025 to promote mutually beneficial East-West cooperation across diplomacy, culture, and economic ties. Awards were presented in four categories: diplomacy, international connectivity, cultural connectivity, and competitiveness.

Speaking at the event, Minister for European Union Affairs Janos Boka said Hungary was committed to strengthening connectivity as a strategy for ensuring long-term competitiveness.

He noted that Hungary's open, export-driven economy depends on foreign investment and advanced technological cooperation.

"We seek partners, allies, friends and points of collaboration," Boka said, adding that Hungary believes in cooperation among sovereign nations based on mutual respect.

Boka said Europe's competitiveness had declined in recent decades and called for a "pragmatic, mutually beneficial relationship" with international partners.

Deputy Minister for EU Affairs Barna Pal Zsigmond, who presented the cultural award, highlighted the geopolitical relevance of dialogue and cooperation.

He said the EU faced significant challenges in a rapidly changing world and stressed the need for diplomacy, economic ties and cultural exchanges that support peace, stability and competitiveness.

Zsigmond praised the legacy of Geza Szocs, calling him a key figure in building historical and cultural connections between Hungary and Eastern countries.

Other awardees included former Hungarian Ambassador to France Gyorgy Karolyi in the diplomacy category, Cambodian lawmaker Suos Yara for international connectivity, and Tata Consultancy Services Hungary in the competitiveness category.

The gala also featured performances by Hungarian artists and brought together officials, diplomats, and cultural figures.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






KCNA Commentary on U.S. Reckless Military Maneuvers Indicating Origin of Instability of Regional Situation

Korean Central News Agency of DPRK

Pyongyang, November 28 (KCNA) -- The U.S. reckless military moves that started at the very beginning of this year, gravely threatening the strategic stability in and around the Korean peninsula, are becoming more blatant even in the closing days of the year.

Recently the U.S. and the ROK staged an anti-special operation naval drill in the waters near Phyongthaek, Kyonggi Province under the pretext of countering someone's "infiltration" by mobilizing a guided missile destroyer, anti-submarine helicopters, sea-patrol planes and other naval and air forces.

And the U.S. has additionally deployed F-16 fighters to the Osan Air Base in Kyonggi Province, as part of the second-stage operational test of the "super-powerful wing", to intensify the joint operational capability.

The U.S. is running amuck in its moves to increase the operational capability of two "super-powerful wings" it formed after forward-deploying F-16 fighters from the Kunsan Air Base in the ROK and the Misawa Air Base in Japan to the Osan Air Base only 64km from Seoul. It is an irrefutable fact that it is aimed at deterring the DPRK and regional countries by force and securing air superiority in contingency.

The U.S.-ROK military drills and arms buildup targeting independent sovereign states in the region are not confined to the Korean peninsula.

According to the media, the U.S. and the ROK launched the combined anti-submarine warfare exercises "Silent Shark" involving submarines and sea-patrol planes in the waters near Guam on Nov. 18 and the U.S. marines set up the Forward Arming and Refueling Point on Yonagni Island, Japan, within hailing distance of the Taiwan Strait on Nov. 21.

Meanwhile, the U.S. often talked about "freedom of navigation" is going to stage the "Proliferation Security Initiative" drill in the sea of Japan from early December, together with its vassal forces including Japan and the ROK, aimed at violating the legitimate right of other countries to navigate and realizing the complete sea blockade.

The U.S. habitual and reckless military moves in disregard of the repeated concerns of the international community clearly indicate where the origin of the instability of the regional situation is and who is the performer of the "unilateral changes to status quo" advocated by it.

Through the military moves of the U.S. and the ROK, the regional countries are correctly diagnosing the essence of the "improved relations with regional countries" and "stability of situation" that they call for externally.

The stereotyped expression of "regular drill" can never cover up the aggressive nature of the provocative acts with extreme belligerence and offensive nature and the fact that the U.S. is just an evil factor fostering the possibility of armed conflict.

The U.S. is the chieftain threatening the peace and stability and destroying the strategic security balance. This fact has already been settled as an absolute value in the perception of the independent sovereign states in the region.

It is the consistent principle and immutable stand of the DPRK to be prepared for countering the confrontation-oriented moves of the enemy states and any development of the situation that may result from them.

We have already made it clear that all threats encroaching upon our sphere of security will become direct targets of the DPRK and be managed in a necessary way.

The DPRK will further devote itself to defending its national sovereignty and interests and protecting the regional peace and stability through the exercise of its essential rights as the U.S. continues to renew its record in the demonstration of its military strength threatening the regional countries. -0-

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Europe and Africa send a strong signal together

Germany - Federal Government

Press statement by Federal Chancellor Merz ahead of the EU-Africa summit in Luanda

Before the summit meeting of the European Union and the African Union in Luanda, Federal Chancellor Merz praised the talks on a ceasefire in Ukraine. He also emphasised the EU's cooperation with Africa on issues of peace and multilateralism.

Transcript of press conference

Monday, 24 November 2025

In a press statement immediately before the start of the summit between the European Union and the African Union in Luanda, Angola, German Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz welcomed the ongoing talks on a possible ceasefire in Ukraine. He emphasised Europe's central role in the peace process and underlined that the EU was taking responsibility and wanted to continue increasing the pressure on Russia.

With the summit approaching, Merz emphasised the close partnership with Africa - an alliance based on peace, multilateralism and cooperation between the two continents. The seventh EU-Africa Summit was not only intended to send a signal to Ukraine, but also to emphasise the importance of strong, equal cooperation between Europe and Africa.

The most important points in brief:

War in Ukraine: With regard to the peace efforts, Federal Chancellor Merz emphasised that Kiev should not be pressured into unilateral territorial concessions. His telephone call with US President Donald Trump had shown that the USA was also open to a jointly developed peace plan, he said. Merz welcomed the talks in Geneva and the interim results achieved there. At the same time, he made it clear that Russia must also be at the negotiating table. "Ukraine can continue to rely on our support", emphasised Chancellor Merz.

With regard to the peace efforts, Federal Chancellor Merz emphasised that Kiev should not be pressured into unilateral territorial concessions. His telephone call with US President Donald Trump had shown that the USA was also open to a jointly developed peace plan, he said. Merz welcomed the talks in Geneva and the interim results achieved there. At the same time, he made it clear that Russia must also be at the negotiating table. "Ukraine can continue to rely on our support", emphasised Chancellor Merz. Crisis regions in Africa : One focus of the talks will be the major crises on the African continent, the Chancellor announced. With regard to Sudan, Merz called for a ceasefire: "Germany will not look away". The Sahel region has also been destabilised by extremist violence and climate change, with many people fleeing through dangerous routes. "The Sahel region needs our joint attention to combat the causes of conflict there", said the Chancellor.

: One focus of the talks will be the major crises on the African continent, the Chancellor announced. With regard to Sudan, Merz called for a ceasefire: "Germany will not look away". The Sahel region has also been destabilised by extremist violence and climate change, with many people fleeing through dangerous routes. "The Sahel region needs our joint attention to combat the causes of conflict there", said the Chancellor. Africa in focus : Federal Chancellor Merz sees Africa as a continent of opportunity. He pointed out the importance of trade relations between the EU and Africa and said that cooperation is in the interest of both parties. Merz emphasised that Germany has supported the pan-African free trade area since the beginning and is its largest donor: "This project is challenging, but it's worth it."

: Federal Chancellor Merz sees Africa as a continent of opportunity. He pointed out the importance of trade relations between the EU and Africa and said that cooperation is in the interest of both parties. Merz emphasised that Germany has supported the pan-African free trade area since the beginning and is its largest donor: "This project is challenging, but it's worth it." International cooperation: Europe and Africa together had more than 40 per cent of the votes in the United Nations, explained the Chancellor. Better international representation of Africa is a prerequisite for using this power more effectively. This is why Germany supports the call for two permanent African seats on the UN Security Council. "When decisions are made about crises in Africa, Africa must be at the table", emphasised Merz.

The summits between the European Union and the African Union have been a central instrument of cooperation between the two continents since 2000. The EU is Africa's most important trading partner and largest investor, while Africa, with its rapidly growing economies, is seen as a continent of opportunity.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Raksha Mantri & his Indonesian counterpart to co-chair third India-Indonesia Defence Ministers' Dialogue in New Delhi

India - Press Information Bureau

Ministry of Defence

Posted On: 26 NOV 2025 7:38PM by PIB Delhi

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh will co-chair the third India-Indonesia Defence Ministers' Dialogue with the Minister of Defense of Indonesia Mr Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin in New Delhi on November 27, 2025. During the meeting, the two Ministers will exchange views on regional security and multilateral issues as well as explore avenues for further deepening bilateral defence collaboration.

This two-day (November 26 & 27, 2025) visit of the Indonesian Defence Minister underscores the growing momentum in India-Indonesia defence cooperation and reflects the commitment on both sides to further deepen and expand the partnership. It follows the visit of the President of Indonesia in January this year.

Civilisational ties between India and Indonesia go back thousands of years. Both nations are maritime neighbours, sharing cultural, civilisational and historical linkages that can be traced back to several centuries.

In recent times, the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries is characterised by growing cooperation in bilateral and multilateral arena, including frequent high-level interactions which is further strengthened by the Act East policy of India.

*****

VK/SR/Savvy

(Release ID: 2194921)

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Indian Coast Guard Hosts Maiden Shipbuilding, Indigenisation & IT Conference

India - Press Information Bureau

Ministry of Defence

Posted On: 27 NOV 2025 3:23PM by PIB Delhi

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) hosted the maiden Shipbuilding, Indigenisation & IT Conference at Madikeri, Karnataka on November 27, 2025, marking a significant milestone in strengthening India's maritime capabilities. A major highlight of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of understanding between the ICG and the Coimbatore District Small Industries Association and Defence Innovation & Atal Incubation Centre. The partnership seeks to strengthen the defence innovation ecosystem and accelerate indigenisation efforts through the Defence Innovation Hub at Coimbatore.

In his inaugural address, Director General Paramesh Sivamani, DG ICG, underscored the strategic importance of self-reliance in shipbuilding through indigenous design, robust digital infrastructure and resilient supply chains. He appreciated the steadfast support of Indian shipyards and equipment manufacturers in boosting the ICG's operational readiness. He also highlighted the successful progression of the 200th indigenously built vessel (fourth Pollution Control Ship), which is currently undergoing sea trials. He described it as a symbol of the technical proficiency and engineering excellence of ICG technocrats.

DG ICG detailed the progress of Project Digital Coast Guard, a long-term initiative to create a secure, scalable and resilient digital backbone for all ICG units, emphasising that digital expansion must be matched with strong cybersecurity frameworks. During the conference, he also released three documents: the teaser of the e-book 'History of Shipbuilding in the Indian Coast Guard'; the Roadmap for Artificial Intelligence in ICG and the ICG Cyber Crisis Management Plan-2025, each reinforcing the organisation's commitment to technological advancement, digital capacity-building, and future-ready preparedness.

The conference enabled valuable exchanges among stakeholders, aligning perspectives and fostering synergy to shape the future requirements of the ICG. It marked a decisive step toward building a technologically advanced, operationally superior and fully indigenous maritime force. Bringing together senior dignitaries, leading shipyards, equipment manufacturers, classification societies and subject-matter experts from across the maritime domain, the conference created a comprehensive platform to advance Aatmanirbhar Bharat, promote technological innovation and accelerate the ICG's digital transformation.

****

SR/KB

(Release ID: 2195319)

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Raksha Mantri & his Indonesian counterpart co-chair 3rd India-Indonesia Defence Ministers' Dialogue in New Delhi; Agree to further deepen defence ties

India - Press Information Bureau

Ministry of Defence

India and Indonesia reiterate the importance of a free, open, peaceful & prosperous Indo-Pacific, guided by international law & respect for sovereignty

Posted On: 27 NOV 2025 2:00PM by PIB Delhi

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh and Minister of Defense of Indonesia Mr Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin co-chaired the third India-Indonesia Defence Ministers' Dialogue in New Delhi on November 27, 2025, reaffirming the long-standing strategic partnership and deepening bilateral defence cooperation.

The two Ministers recalled the visit of President of Indonesia Mr Prabowo Subianto to India as the Chief Guest of Republic Day Celebrations 2025. They affirmed that the productive and wide-ranging discussions between Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and President Subianto during the visit, and outcomes have led to further strengthening of the India-Indonesia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. They also recalled the participation of 352 personnel from the Indonesian Armed Forces in the Republic Day Celebrations.

Key Outcomes & Highlights :

Strategic Outlook on Indo-Pacific Peace and Security: India and Indonesia reiterated the importance of maintaining a free, open, peaceful, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific, guided by international law and respect for sovereignty. Noting that the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific and India's Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative share relevant fundamental principles, Indonesia reiterated that India remains a key partner in promoting peace and cooperation in the region. Both sides agreed to enhance cooperation through multilateral frameworks such as Indian Ocean Rim Association under India's chairmanship. Both countries committed to enhancing practical cooperation in maritime domain awareness, cyber resilience, and joint operational readiness.

India and Indonesia reiterated the importance of maintaining a free, open, peaceful, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific, guided by international law and respect for sovereignty. Noting that the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific and India's Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative share relevant fundamental principles, Indonesia reiterated that India remains a key partner in promoting peace and cooperation in the region. Both sides agreed to enhance cooperation through multilateral frameworks such as Indian Ocean Rim Association under India's chairmanship. Both countries committed to enhancing practical cooperation in maritime domain awareness, cyber resilience, and joint operational readiness. Defence Cooperation and Industry Collaboration: The Dialogue reaffirmed the strong foundation of bilateral defence cooperation, including the Defence Cooperation Agreement and the work of the Joint Defence Cooperation Committee. Indonesia appreciated India's proposal to establish a Joint Defence Industry Cooperation Committee to further strengthen collaboration in areas such as technology transfer, joint R&D, certification harmonisation, and supply-chain linkages.

Military-to-Military Engagements: India and Indonesia highlighted the progress in joint exercises across land, maritime, and air forces, including Super Garuda Shield, Garuda Shakti, Samudra Shakti, MILAN, and upcoming Air Manoeuvre Exercises. Both sides agreed to continue officer exchanges, joint training programs, and visits to defence education institutions to promote interoperability and knowledge sharing.

India and Indonesia highlighted the progress in joint exercises across land, maritime, and air forces, including Super Garuda Shield, Garuda Shakti, Samudra Shakti, MILAN, and upcoming Air Manoeuvre Exercises. Both sides agreed to continue officer exchanges, joint training programs, and visits to defence education institutions to promote interoperability and knowledge sharing. Maritime Security and Multilateral Cooperation: Both countries reiterated their commitment to maritime security, including coordination in the Indian Ocean. Indonesia welcomed India's initiatives, emphasising cooperation within ASEAN-led ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting-Plus and other structures.

Defence Technology, Submarine Capability, and Medical Cooperation: India's experience in submarine development and supply-chain management, including Scorpene-class programs, was acknowledged as highly valuable for Indonesia's future plans. Both countries also discussed collaboration in defence medicine and pharmaceuticals, including joint research, technology transfer, and training programs to strengthen military health resilience.

India's experience in submarine development and supply-chain management, including Scorpene-class programs, was acknowledged as highly valuable for Indonesia's future plans. Both countries also discussed collaboration in defence medicine and pharmaceuticals, including joint research, technology transfer, and training programs to strengthen military health resilience. Support for International Peace and Humanitarian Efforts: Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to a just and lasting peace in Palestine, and acknowledged opportunities for cooperation in humanitarian assistance, post conflict reconstruction, and multilateral peace efforts. Indonesia reaffirmed its readiness to contribute peacekeeping personnel to Gaza under UN Mandate.

India announced gifting of horses and ceremonial carriage to Indonesia from Indian Army's Remount Veterinary Corps.

Both Ministers expressed their satisfaction with the Dialogue's outcomes and the need to continue high-level exchanges, practical cooperation, and structured management across multiple areas of defence and security, thereby contributing to peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.

VK/Savvy

(Release ID: 2195269)

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Call on the Prime Minister by Secretary, Supreme National Security Council of Iran

Prime Miinister's Office - Islamic Republic of Pakistan

November 25, 2025

Islamabad : Tuesday, 25 November, 2025

Call on the Prime Minister by Secretary, Supreme National Security Council of Iran

H.E. Mr. Ali Ardeshir Larijani, Secretary, Supreme National Security Council of Iran called on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif at the Prime Minister House today. Dr. Larijani is currently on an official visit to Pakistan.

While welcoming the Iranian dignitary, the Prime Minister emphasized the significance of the historic and close fraternal ties between the two countries and called for further deepening and broadening of bilateral relations, across diverse fields. Dr. Larijani reciprocated the sentiment and stressed upon the need for enhancing Pakistan-Iran ties in wide-ranging and mutually beneficial areas.

During the meeting, the two sides also exchanged views on major regional and international developments, while stressing on the importance of coordinated efforts to promote peace and stability in the region.

The Prime Minister appreciated Iran's principled positions on regional issues and expressed his and the country's gratitude for Iran's solidarity with Pakistan during difficult times. He reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to continue working closely with Iran, for a peaceful and prosperous future for both countries.

Dr. Larijani thanked the Pakistani nation and leadership for their unflinching support to Iran during its recent 12-day War and expressed deep appreciation for Pakistan's constructive role in advocating dialogue and diplomacy for the peaceful settlement of disputes.

Availing himself of the opportunity, the Prime Minister conveyed his profound respect and good wishes for Iran's Supreme Leader, His Eminence Syed Ali Khamenei as well as President Masoud Pezeshkian, and thanked them for their support to Pakistan as well as their commitment to stronger Pakistan-Iran relations.

It was decided in the meeting that a delegation under the leadership of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar will soon visit Iran to further strengthen cooperation in different fields especially agriculture and connectivity.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Iran condemns Australian government's move to designate IRGC as sponsor of terrorism

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Nov 27, 2025

Tehran, IRNA -- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran has strongly condemned the offensive and unjustified action of the Australian government in labeling the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) of Iran as state sponsor of terrorism.

In a statement published on Thursday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that "the political move of the Australian government is a dangerous and criminal precedent," which has been designed under the influence of the Israeli regime and aims to divert the public opinion from the genocide in Gaza, and therefore amounts to complicity of the initiators of this action with criminals who are wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC).

The statement strongly condemns the move as "action illegal, unjustifiable, and a violation of international legal norms and rules."

This irresponsible action is a continuation of the grave error committed by the Australian government based on completely baseless accusations fabricated by the security institutions of the Israeli regime and has made the long-standing diplomatic relations between Iran and Australia a bargaining chip for paying tribute to the occupying Israeli regime, the statement reads.

"This is while relevant Australian authorities, including the New South Wales Police, on October 25, 2025, explicitly acknowledged the fabricated nature of the accusation of Iran's involvement in actions against Jewish targets and announced that there is no evidence or proof of Iran's involvement in the alleged anti-Jewish actions in Australia."

The statement said that Iran emphasizes that the political move of the Australian government is a dangerous and criminal precedent, designed under the influence of the Israeli regime and aimed at diverting public opinion from the genocide in Gaza, and therefore amounts to complicity of the initiators of this action with criminals who are under prosecution by the International Criminal Court.

Recalling the lofty and honorable position of the IRGC as part of the official armed forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran, which has played an unparalleled role in defending Iran's national security against foreign aggression and in combating terrorism including ISIS, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stresses that the Islamic Republic is determined to take all necessary measures to defend the position and reputation of its armed forces against any hostile labeling.

In a hostile move, Australia has classified the IRGC as a "state sponsor of terrorism."

9417

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Visit of Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council of the Islamic Republic of Iran, to Pakistan (25-26 November 2025)

Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Dr Ali Ardeshir Larijani, paid an official visit to Pakistan from 25 to 26 November 2025. During the visit, Dr Larijani held formal delegation-level talks with the National Security Advisor, Lt. Gen. Muhammad Asim Malik. He also called on the President, the Prime Minister, the Speaker of the National Assembly, the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, and the Chief of Army Staff.

In these interactions, the two sides reaffirmed the longstanding bonds of friendship between Pakistan and Iran, rooted in shared history, culture, and faith. Discussions underscored the mutual desire to further enhance bilateral cooperation in a wide range of areas, including political engagement; trade and economic collaboration; counter-terrorism and border security; regional connectivity; and cultural and people-to-people exchanges. Both sides agreed to deepen ties in a manner that promotes mutual prosperity and contributes to regional peace and stability.

The two sides also held comprehensive exchanges on key regional and international developments. They emphasised the importance of close coordination, constructive dialogue, and the peaceful settlement of disputes to advance shared objectives of stability and progress. Pakistan and Iran expressed their resolve to continue working together to address common challenges and to strengthen collaboration at regional and multilateral fora.

The visit further strengthened the positive momentum in Pakistan-Iran bilateral relations, fostering greater cooperation and promoting mutual understanding.

Islamabad

November 27, 2025

354/2025

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Iran primed for stronger, swifter response to threats: Defense minister

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 27 November 2025 9:26 PM

Iran's defense minister says the Islamic Republic stands at its highest level of defensive readiness yet, affirming that any hostile act will be met with a response "firmer and more severe than ever before."

Brigadier General Aziz Nasirzadeh said the country's Armed Forces were operating with full strategic confidence, real-time monitoring, and superior battlefield awareness, various Iranian media outlets reported on Thursday.

"Threats are tracked meticulously and without pause," he stated, adding that the core priority was not merely surveillance, but the sustained combat readiness of the country's defense forces.

"Today, with full strength and complete intelligence dominance, Iran stands ready to answer any threat decisively, immediately, and far more intensely than in the past," the official noted.

The minister referenced Iran's measured but formidable demonstration of strength during the 12-day war that was imposed by the Israeli regime and the United States on the country in June, noting that the operation revealed only "a fraction" of the nation's true defensive prowess.

"We showcased part of our capability, but not the full spectrum of Iran's defense capacity," he said, emphasizing that greater deterrent strength remained strategically reserved.

Iran's response to the warfare featured an initial defensive phase that included the downing of hundreds of invading Israeli drones worth hundreds of millions of dollars, and the neutralization and capture of collaborators.

The second phase saw the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) retaliate by firing hundreds of ballistic missiles, including hypersonic variants, towards strategic nuclear, military, and industrial targets across the occupied Palestinian territories.

The reprisal came as part of Operation True Promise III, a sequel to two similarly triumphant anti-Israeli counteroffensives.

Nasirzadeh went on to warn that any misreading of Iran's posture would carry tangible consequences. "If the adversaries succumb to miscalculation and attempt even the smallest act of hostility towards Iran, they will immediately encounter a response that they will regret."

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Iranian foreign minister warns region cannot withstand further conflicts

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 27 November 2025 7:49 PM

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has warned that West Asia "cannot withstand further tensions and conflicts," pointing to Israel as a principal source of instability and criticizing Western support that shields it from international accountability.

His warning in an interview with the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting on Thursday came as Israel's war minister, Israel Katz, said that Tel Aviv is prepared to launch a new war on Lebanon.

"What is important is that the region cannot withstand further tensions and conflicts, and the main factor behind these tensions and conflicts is the Zionist regime, which has unfortunately been given an unacceptable immunity by the United States and Western countries, allowing it to do whatever it wants and for them to prevent any action against the Zionist regime in international forums," Araghchi said.

Araghchi's remarks followed a meeting in Paris on Wednesday with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot. The two officials discussed a broad range of issues, including Iran's nuclear program, regional security developments, European matters, the war in Ukraine, and bilateral relations between the two countries.

"These were among the discussions we had. Naturally, we have differences of opinion on numerous issues, but we have never abandoned dialogue," Araghchi said.

Despite wide differences between Tehran and Paris, Araghchi stressed that continuous dialogue remains essential to prevent miscalculations and misunderstandings.

"We have differences of opinion on various matters, but at the same time we have always had political dialogue and consultation with one another," he said.

He cited recent conversations on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York and a recent telephone call between the presidents of Iran and France as evidence of ongoing engagement.

Araghchi said his visit to Paris follows earlier consultations between Tehran and Paris in various fields, including regional issues, the nuclear question, European affairs, international matters, and bilateral concerns.

On Iran's nuclear program, Araghchi emphasized that the country is open to diplomacy but cautioned that negotiations must be fair and balanced.

"I explained why, at present, a balanced and fair negotiation is not possible  because of the approach we observe from the US  and that the Islamic Republic has always been ready for negotiation, and we have never abandoned the diplomatic venues," he said.

"But naturally, diplomacy and negotiation have their own rules, and they can be conducted or succeed only if those rules are observed, and the most important rule of negotiation is avoiding excessive demands and bullying."

He drew a sharp distinction between negotiation and submission to externally imposed terms, saying, "Negotiation is something and writing down dictated terms and obeying orders is something else. These are two worlds apart."

Araghchi added that while dialogue with Europe has experienced ups and downs and "is not in a good state" at present, it "has always been on our agenda."

The Iranian foreign minister also reiterated a broader warning to adversaries against sustaining aggressive policies toward Iran. He highlighted the cumulative pressures and conflicts in the region and emphasized the risk of further escalation if diplomacy and dialogue are abandoned.

Araghchi traveled to Paris at the formal invitation of his French counterpart, following his attendance at the Thirtieth Session of the Conference of the States Parties to the Chemical Weapons Convention (CSP-30) in The Hague, Netherlands.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






US, with all its modern military arsenal, suffered defeat in 12-day war: Leader

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 27 November 2025 5:59 PM

Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei says the US suffered severe losses during the 12-day war with Iran in June, despite deploying its most advanced military equipment, including submarines, fighter jets, and state-of-the-art defense systems.

"In the 12-day war, the Iranian nation undoubtedly defeated both the United States and the Zionist regime. They came and committed mischief, but were beaten and returned empty-handed, failing to achieve any of their objectives  this was a real defeat for them," Ayatollah Khamenei said in a televised speech on Thursday night.

The Leader said that according to some accounts, the Zionist regime had planned and prepared for the war for 20 years.

"They had planned a war in which they hoped to provoke the people and force them to fight against the system. But the situation was reversed, and they failed so completely that even those who had disagreements with the system stood alongside it, creating a general unity in the country," he added.

Ayatollah Khamenei referred to the heavy losses suffered by the US in the 12-day war despite deploying its most advanced military equipment, including submarines, fighter jets, and state-of-the-art defense systems.

"The United States was severely damaged in this war, since despite using the latest offensive and defensive weapons, it could not achieve its goal of deceiving the nation and winning their support. Instead, the unity of the people increased, and the United States was also thwarted," he said.

"Of course, we also suffered losses, and, as is the nature of war, precious lives were lost. But the Islamic Republic demonstrated that it is a center of will and power, able to stand strong and make decisions without fear of the noise around it. Moreover, the material damage inflicted on the invading enemy was far greater than the material losses we suffered," he added.

On June 13, Israel launched an unprovoked war against Iran, assassinating many high-ranking military commanders, nuclear scientists, and ordinary civilians.

More than a week later, the United States also entered the war by bombing three Iranian nuclear sites in a grave violation of the United Nations Charter, international law, and the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).

In response, the Iranian Armed Forces targeted strategic sites across the occupied territories as well as the al-Udeid air base in Qatar, the largest American military base in West Asia.

On June 24, Iran, through its successful retaliatory operations against both the Israeli regime and the US, managed to impose a halt to the illegal assault.

Ayatollah Khamenei touched on the severe disgrace and infamy of the Zionist regime in the Gaza tragedy as one of the most important disasters in the region's history.

"The United States stood alongside the usurping regime and became severely disgraced and discredited, because the people of the world know that the Zionist regime is not capable of causing so much devastation without America."

He called the current Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, the most hated person in the world today and the Zionist regime the most hated organization and ruling clique, adding: "Because the United States stands alongside them, the hatred of the Zionists has also spread to the United States."

Ayatollah Khamenei cited US interventions in different parts of the world as another factor in its increasing isolation, saying US interference in any region causes war, genocide, destruction, and displacement.

He touched on the "costly and futile war" in Ukraine as an example of US interference, saying the current US president, who said he would solve the conflict in three days, is now - after nearly a year - imposing a 28-point plan on the country they dragged into the war.

The plan, crafted by President Donald Trump and the Kremlin without Ukraine's involvement, reportedly acquiesces to many Russian demands that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has categorically rejected on dozens of occasions, including giving up large pieces of territory.

Ayatollah Khamenei pointed to Israeli attacks on Lebanon, incursions into Syria, crimes in the West Bank, and the dire situation in Gaza as other examples of overt US support for the war and crimes of the "vile regime" of Israel.

The Leader dismissed "rumors that the Iranian government had sent a message to the United States through such-and-such country, saying "This is pure lies, and such a thing certainly did not exist."

He touched on "US betrayal of even its friends in favor of the Zionist and criminal clique and efforts to incite wars worldwide for oil and underground resources, including in Latin America".

"Such a government is certainly not a government that the Islamic Republic seeks to cooperate or maintain relations with," he said.

Since late August, Washington has sent warships, surveillance aircraft, and special-operations units to the southern Caribbean, threatening Venezuela with an increased military invasion.

On Tuesday, Colombian President Gustavo Petro also stressed that "oil is at the heart of" US pressure campaign against Venezuela.

Ayatollah Khamenei referred to the necessity for nations to resist the greed and interference of powers seeking domination.

He said, "The great element of resistance, which was established and grew in Iran, can today be seen in the slogans supporting Palestine and Gaza across various parts of the world, including Western countries and even the United States."

The Leader said a volunteer force like the Basij could serve any country well. He added that Iran, which has openly confronted international bullies and aggressors, relies on the Basij more than most.

The vitality and dynamism of the Basij, he said, contribute to strengthening the resistance of nations against global oppressors. As resistance grows, he added, the world's downtrodden feel a greater sense of support and empowerment.

Ayatollah Khamenei described the Basij in broad and inclusive terms as a force able to confront enemy strategies in military, economic, industrial, technological, and other sectors.

"The dear scientists who were martyred in the 12-day war, the designers, builders, and launchers of missiles, anyone who has enlightened others with sound reasoning and clear expression against rumors and temptations, the devoted doctors and nurses who did not abandon hospitals during the war, and the athletes who express their devotion to God, religion, country, and nation on the international stage  whether or not they are formal members of the Basij  are all Basij," he added.

Ayatollah Khamenei urged the Iranian people, first and foremost, to preserve and strengthen national unity. He acknowledged the existence of differences among social groups and political factions but stressed the importance of standing together against the enemy, as was seen during the 12-day war, noting that such solidarity is essential to the nation's strength.

The Leader, recommending support for the president and the administration, stated that running the country is difficult and demanding.

He said the administration has already begun implementing positive measures, including continuing unfinished projects initiated by the late President Ebrahim Raeisi, and expressed hope that the people would soon see the results.



NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Iran condemns Australia's 'dangerous' move against IRGC, warns of Israeli influence

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 27 November 2025 5:31 PM

Iran has strongly condemned the Australian government's decision to designate the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) as a "state sponsor of terrorism," slamming Canberra for acting under Israeli influence.

"The political move by the Australian government is a dangerous and criminal precedent, designed under the influence of the Zionist regime to divert public attention from the genocide in Gaza," Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement released on Thursday.

"Therefore, it amounts to collaboration by the initiators of this action with the criminals who are under investigation by the International Criminal Court," it said.

The Australian government listed the IRGC as a "state sponsor of terrorism" on Thursday over baseless accusations that the IRGC had orchestrated attacks against Australia's Jewish community.

The Iranian Foreign Ministry strongly condemned the decision, denouncing it offensive and unjustified. "The Islamic Republic of Iran considers this action illegal, unjustifiable, and a violation of international legal rules and norms in respect of the national sovereignty of states."

The ministry expressed "disgust at the adherence of certain Australian politicians to the evil policy of the genocidal Israeli regime in spreading lies against Iran", and underscored the Australian government's international responsibility for "this unlawful act".

"This irresponsible action is a continuation of the grave mistake the Australian government committed on the basis of completely unfounded accusations fabricated by the security agencies of the Zionist regime, and it has placed the longstanding Iran-Australia diplomatic relationship at the service of granting concessions to the occupying Zionist regime," it said.

The ministry was referring to Australia's expulsion of the Iranian ambassador in Canberra in August, following allegations of Iran's involvement in two anti-Semitic attacks in the country.

"This comes as Australian authorities, including New South Wales Police, explicitly acknowledged on October 25, 2025, that the allegation of Iran's involvement in actions against Jewish targets was fabricated, saying there is no evidence of Iranian interference in the alleged anti-Jewish incidents in Australia," the ministry said.

The ministry reiterated the exalted, empowering, and honorable status of the IRGC as part of the official armed forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran, which has played an unparalleled role in defending Iran's sovereignty and national security against foreign aggression and combating terrorism, including Daesh.

It added that Tehran will take "all necessary measures" to safeguard the reputation of its armed forces against hostile designations.





NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Larijani: US-Israeli efforts to destroy Iran's nuclear capability 'immature and foolish'

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 27 November 2025 3:10 PM

The secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) has stated that US and Israeli efforts to eliminate Iran's nuclear capabilities are "immature and foolish," as Iran's nuclear industry is an indigenous technology pursued with full determination.

Speaking to HUM News during his official two-day visit to Pakistan, Ali Larijani said US President Donald Trump's claims about halting Iran's nuclear activities were baseless.

"The idea of the United States and the Zionist regime to destroy Iran's nuclear capabilities is an immature and foolish notion, because the nuclear industry is an indigenous knowledge that we are pursuing with determination," he said.

During the US-Israeli aggression against Iran in June  which killed many high-ranking military commanders, nuclear scientists, and ordinary civilians the United States bombed three Iranian nuclear sites in a grave violation of the United Nations Charter, international law, and the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).

Trump repeatedly claimed that the strikes "completely and totally obliterated" Iran's nuclear enrichment facilities. War secretary Pete Hegseth also said on Sunday that Iran's nuclear ambitions "have been obliterated."

Larijani rejected the claims saying Iran's nuclear program is a reality, and "the essence of this indigenous knowledge is in the brains of our scientists."

He added that Israel's actions, including assassinations and other terrorist operations, are "nothing but foolish," stating that Iran has thousands of nuclear experts and that assuming its nuclear program has ended is "an immature and foolish notion."

He stressed that Iran is not seeking nuclear weapons but is firmly committed to pursuing peaceful nuclear energy, adding "We will deal with these conditions, and if the enemies commit an atrocious act 10 times, we will face it."

Larijani reiterated that diplomacy is the only real solution, noting "We have never rejected genuine negotiations, whether direct, indirect, or within the 5+1 format."

According to the security chief, the problem arises when the other side predetermines the outcome, which he said is "a farce that merely carries the name of negotiations."

Elsewhere in his remarks, Larijani said that Tehran-Islamabad relations are "deep-rooted and genuine," grounded in shared interests, religious beliefs, and cultural proximity.

He noted that among Iran's neighbors, Pakistan enjoys a particularly privileged position. "Both countries are pillars of regional power and can play an effective role in establishing peace."

Larijani underlined that Iran and Pakistan can play complementary roles in the region. "There are no limits to expanding ties," he said, emphasizing that both sides are determined to boost cooperation in all areas.

Iran's top security official expressed regret over recent Pakistan-Afghanistan tensions, saying both nations have suffered from long wars.

Relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan have sharply deteriorated in recent months, amid escalating border tensions and mutual accusations of harboring militants.

Larijani noted that Iran had asked Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari to specify whatever assistance they believed Tehran could provide, saying Iran is ready to play any role required.

"Pakistan is very dear and noble to Iranians," he said, adding that Tehran is willing to give Pakistan "a carte blanche to use whenever needed".

Commenting on Israel's recent actions in the regionincluding its attack on Hamas elements in Qatarand the Pakistan-Saudi strategic defense pact, Larijani slammed the Israeli operation as a "clear reflection of the regime's adventurous nature."

He warned that Israel seeks regional dominance with direct backing from the US. "Their common objective is for the entire region to submit or face destabilization."

Larijani said events in recent months have convinced regional actors, including Saudi Arabia that "the region must rely on itself."

While acknowledging that countries may differ in interpretation, he said stronger Muslim unity ultimately serves the interests of all regional nations.

Larijani criticized US-led initiatives, including the so-called Gaza peace agreement, as unilateral and illegitimate and reiterated Iran's clear stance on Palestine, emphasizing that the future of the Palestinian people should be determined through a democratic vote.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Iran Navy ready to give 'decisive' response to any enemy aggression

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 27 November 2025 10:52 AM

Iran's top general says the country's strategic naval forces are prepared to give a "firm and regret-inducing" response to any possible act of aggression by enemies.

Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi made the remarks on Thursday in a message on the occasion of the Iranian Navy Day.

He said the naval forces have defended national sovereignty and safeguarded the country's maritime borders since the very first days of the Islamic Revolution in 1979.

He hailed the forces' "purposeful and honorable" presence in the high seas and distant maritime regions worldwide to protect national interests, adding that their epic and lasting role will be etched in Iran's history.

Mousavi emphasized that the strategic naval forces have proven their complete operational readiness in recent confrontations, particularly after the 12-day imposed war by the US and Israel in June, when they proved their ability to deliver a "decisive, effective and regret-inducing" response to any act of aggression or violation.

On June 13, Israel launched an unprovoked war against Iran, assassinating many high-ranking military commanders, nuclear scientists, and ordinary civilians.

More than a week later, the United States also entered the war by bombing three Iranian nuclear sites in a grave violation of the United Nations Charter, international law, and the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).

In response, the Iranian Armed Forces targeted strategic sites across the occupied territories as well as the al-Udeid air base in Qatar, the largest American military base in West Asia.

On June 24, Iran, through its successful retaliatory operations against both the Israeli regime and the US, managed to impose a halt to the illegal assault.

Gen. Mousavi further added that Iran's ability to safeguard sustainable security in the Persian Gulf, the Sea of Oman, and the country's territorial waters is the result of constructive interaction and synergy between the Army's naval forces and the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Navy.

Such a strategic approach has created a powerful model of intelligent deterrence against extra-regional threats, he pointed out.

He noted that naval forces also play an active and influential role in science, education, modern technologies, and maritime diplomacy.

The Iranian Navy's comprehensive presence demonstrates its great capability to turn threats into opportunities and open new horizons for the country, Mousavi emphasized.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Israeli military tightens restrictions on officers' phones over hacking fears: Report

Iran Press TV

Thursday, 27 November 2025 11:08 AM

The Israeli military reportedly plans to impose new restrictions on mobile phone use by senior officers to curb leaks of sensitive information, particularly in the wake of the October 7, 2023, surprise attack known as Operation AlAqsa Flood.

According to Israeli Army Radio, commanders at the rank of lieutenant colonel and above will be required under the directive to use only Apple iPhones for official communications.

The measure is intended to reduce the risk of intrusions on senior officers' devices, the report said Wednesday.

The Israeli military is also expected to prohibit officers from carrying any official phone other than an iPhone, with Android devices permitted solely for personal use. The directive is anticipated within days and will apply to officers from lieutenant colonel up to the general staff.

The move is part of a broader initiative to limit unintentional exposure through social media and messaging apps, which can potentially reveal behavioral patterns.

The development builds on previous initiatives to strengthen mobile security within the Israeli military, which included training sessions and internal drills aimed at enhancing officers' awareness of social engineering strategies.

In recent years, the occupation military has conducted simulations involving so-called "honeypots" to evaluate and strengthen the digital discipline of its units.

Israeli military authorities have consistently cautioned that adversarial groups exploit social media platforms and messaging applications to infiltrate soldiers' devices and monitor troop movements.

The military had earlier alleged that Hamas was exploiting WhatsApp to gather intelligence from soldiers stationed at the Gaza border. Troops were advised to promptly report any suspicious messages to their commanders.

In 2019, the military cautioned its forces about the Palestinian resistance movement's leveraging WhatsApp to collect information on troop movements around the Gaza area.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Japanese destroyer, crew on 4-day goodwill visit in Zambales

Philippine News Agency

By Priam Nepomuceno

November 27, 2025, 2:58 pm

MANILA -- A Japanese guided missile destroyer and its crew are in the Philippines for a four-day goodwill visit, further boosting the growing navy-to-navy ties between the two Asian nations.

JS Harusame (DD-102), which arrived on Wednesday and skippered by Commander Makoto Ozawa, is docked at the Naval Operating Base in Subic, Zambales, the Philippine Fleet (PF) said in a news release on Thursday.

Following the arrival honors for JS Harusame, Ozawa, along with Japanese assistant defense attache Commander Kawahata Noriyuki and two other Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) officers, paid a courtesy call on PF commander Rear Admiral Joe Anthony Orbe.

"During the call, both navies discussed the PF commander's engagement in August and his recent visit to Yokosuka, Japan, in preparation for the official PF and JMSDF staff-to-staff talk to be held in the Philippines," the PF said.

It added that Orbe assured the visiting JMSDF delegates of the PF's readiness to provide any assistance, while both sides exchanged insights from their experiences as ship commanding officers.

Orbe and his staff were also given a shipboard tour of JS Harusame, "allowing them to familiarize the vessel's equipment and technology, while also promoting knowledge sharing and enhancing mutual appreciation of each other's maritime assets and operational procedures," the PF said.

The visit will conclude with a send-off ceremony on Saturday.

"This visit underscores the continued efforts to strengthen maritime cooperation and foster stronger ties between the PN and the JMSDF," the PF said.

"It reaffirms the shared commitment of both nations to enhance professional expertise, operational interoperability, and bilateral trust, supporting the shared goal of a secure and stable maritime environment." (PNA)

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Japan is destined to pay heavy price should it cross the red line: Defense Spokesperson

Ministry of National Defense of the People's Republic of China

Source China Military Online

EditorZhang Yajie

Time2025-11-27 18:17:15

BEIJING, Nov. 27 -- "Should the Japanese side dare to cross the red line and invite troubles to itself, it is destined to pay a heavy price," said Senior Colonel Jiang Bin, spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defense (MND), at a press conference on Thursday.

It's reported that the Japanese side claimed that a plan to deploy medium-range surface-to-air missiles at the Yonaguni Island 110 kilometers east of Taiwan is making steady progress. According to Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, the deployment will lower the risk of Japan being attacked, and it will not intensify regional tensions.

When being asked to share comment, the spokesperson said that the Taiwan question is purely an internal affair of China. How to resolve the Taiwan question is a matter for the Chinese people, and has nothing to do with Japan.

"This year marks the 80th anniversary of Taiwan's restoration to China. Instead of repenting for its war crimes of invading and colonizing China's Taiwan region, Japan is taking an extremely wrong approach by suggesting military intervention into a so-called Taiwan contingency," Jiang slammed.

He continued that Japan's dangerous approach will uproot the post-WWII international order, and lead Japan to repeat the mistakes of its militarist past. "The Chinese PLA has strong capabilities and reliable means to defeat any aggressors, and should the Japanese side dare to cross the red line and invite troubles to itself, it is destined to pay a heavy price," stressed the spokesperson in the end.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Chinese defense ministry responds intensively to Japan's dangerous moves

Global Times

'Should Japan dare to cross red line, it is destined to pay heavy price'

By Fan Anqi and Xing Xiaojing Published: Nov 28, 2025 12:20 AM

China's Ministry of National Defense (MND) on Thursday responded intensively to a series of recent moves by Japan, including the deployment of missiles on Yonaguni Island, the first export of deadly weapons since Japan relaxed arms export controls, and Japan's initiation of discussions on revising three security-related documents.

Slamming these dangerous moves, MND spokesperson Jiang Bin said at a press conference held on Thursday that should the Japanese side dare to cross the red line and invite trouble to itself, it is destined to pay a heavy price. He added that people around the world, especially those from China and other victimized countries in Asia, will never forget the catastrophe brought by Japanese fascists. The specter of Japanese militarism must never be allowed to haunt the world again.

Recent media reports said that the Japanese government has sold its domestically produced Patriot air-defense missiles to the US. It was the first export of deadly weapons since Japan relaxed controls on arms exports. In addition, the Liberal Democratic Party of Japan has started discussions on revising its three security documents, including the revision of its three non-nuclear principles and increasing its defense spending.

Commenting on the latest moves, Jiang warned that the international community must be on high alert against Japan's revisionist attempts to break away from the restraints of its pacifist constitution. The attempts include brazenly expanding its military build-up, drastically increasing its defense budget, expediting the revision of its security policies, relaxing restrictions on weapons exports, and attempting to revoke the three non-nuclear principles. It is even attempting to intervene militarily on the Taiwan question. These moves pose serious threats to regional peace and stability, Jiang said.

Regarding the Japanese side's plan to station medium-range surface-to-air missiles at Yonaguni Island 110 kilometers east of Taiwan, and responding to Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi's recent claim that the deployment "will lower the risk of Japan being attacked", the MND spokesperson said, "Should the Japanese side dare to cross the red line and invite troubles to itself, it is destined to pay a heavy price."

Jiang noted that this year marks the 80th anniversary of Taiwan's restoration. "Instead of repenting for its war crimes of invading and colonizing Taiwan, Japan is taking an extremely wrong approach by suggesting military intervention in a so-called Taiwan contingency. This dangerous approach will uproot the post-WWII international order, and lead Japan to repeat the mistakes of its militarist past."

The PLA has strong capabilities and reliable means to defeat any aggressors, Jiang stressed.

The MND also responded to recent claims from a source in the Japanese Self-Defense Forces saying that if the aircraft carrier Fujian takes military action in the Taiwan Straits, "Japanese and US forces will have the capability to sink it."

In response, Jiang said, "it is nothing but sheer fantasy and an overestimation of one's own abilities."

Japan's recent series of dangerous moves have inflicted severe harm and posed a major threat to peace and stability in the region and beyond, a Chinese expert said.

"Alarmingly, Japan has shown no remorse whatsoever for its aggressive past in World War II; instead, it continues to stir up troubles and revive militarist practices. Furthermore, Japan harbors ambitions to develop nuclear weapons, acquire nuclear-powered equipment, and promote arms exports. The core reason for its 'recklessness' is its utter lack of repentance for its WWII aggression," Song Zhongping, a military affairs expert, told the Global Times on Thursday.

Song warned that if such a country is allowed to revive militarism, it will undoubtedly bring catastrophic consequences to the region and the world at large.

Song believes that China, as a core force for safeguarding regional and global peace, will never tolerate Japan's dangerous acts. If Japan dares to exacerbate regional unrest and inflict harm on the region, China will resolutely step forward, and take firm and effective measures to crack down on and resolutely curb Japan's militarist resurgence.

Tensions have boiled between Beijing and Tokyo following Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's erroneous remarks on the Taiwan question. The comments have sparked widespread public debate and continuous protests within Japan, with prominent politicians and experts voicing open opposition.

In an exclusive interview with the Global Times, Yukiko Kaikita, president of the Kumamoto Chapter of the Women's Association for Peace and Against Military Expansion, said Takaichi's remarks constitute blatant interference in China's internal affairs, and that a large number of Japanese citizens hope she will retract her statements and issue an apology.

"Most importantly, Japan's core commitment to the world is that we would never again wage war. When World War II ended in 1945, the Japanese people not only enshrined this principle in our constitution but also internalized, from the bottom of their hearts, the conviction that 'we must never go to war again'," said Kaikita. "Yet, among Japanese politicians, that conviction gradually faded, as it was replaced by a complete tilt toward the US-Japan security framework. This shift fills us with deep anger."

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Saudi Armed Forces Chief of General Staff calls on the Prime Minister

Prime Miinister's Office - Islamic Republic of Pakistan

November 24, 2025

Islamabad : Monday, 24 November, 2025

Saudi Armed Forces Chief of General Staff calls on the Prime Minister

H.E. General Fayyad bin Hamed Al-Ruwaili, Chief of General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, called on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, at the Prime Minister House in Islamabad, today.

While conveying his warm wishes to The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques His Majesty King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud as well as to His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Prime Minister reaffirmed his steadfast resolve to further strengthening of the historic fraternal ties between Pakistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in all domains, including defence, security and economic cooperation.

The Prime Minister welcomed General Al-Ruwaili and conveyed Pakistan's deep appreciation for the unwavering support and solidarity extended by the brotherly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at all times. He underlined that the relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia was rooted in shared faith, common values, and mutual trust.

Recalling his highly successful visits to Riyadh in the last two months, during which the historic Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement (SMDA) was signed between the two sides, the Prime Minister expressed Pakistan's unwavering commitment to further deepening of bilateral defence collaboration, including joint training, exercises, and exchange of expertise.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the shared resolve of both countries to combat terrorism and extremism in all its forms and manifestations, and to promote peace and stability in the region.

General Al-Ruwaili conveyed the warm greetings of the Saudi leadership to the Prime Minister and the people of Pakistan. He reiterated the Kingdom's strong desire to elevate the existing excellent defence and strategic partnership with Pakistan to new heights.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister & Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, SAPM Tariq Fatemi and other senior officials from both sides.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






On 26 November 2025, security forces conducted an intelligence based operation in Dera Ismail Khan District, on reported presence of Khwarij belonging to Indian Proxy, Fitna al Khwarij.

Inter Services Public Relations Pakistan

Rawalpindi - November 27, 2025

No PR-384/2025-ISPR

On 26 November 2025, security forces conducted an intelligence based operation in Dera Ismail Khan District, on reported presence of Khwarij belonging to Indian Proxy, Fitna al Khwarij.

During the conduct of operation, own troops effectively engaged the khwarij location and after an intense fire exchange, twenty two khwarij were sent to hell.

Sanitization operation is being conducted to eliminate any other Indian-sponsored Kharji found in the area, as the relentless Counter Terrorism campaign under vision "Azm-e-Istehkam" (as approved by the Federal Apex Committee on National Action Plan) by Security Forces and Law Enforcement Agencies of Pakistan will continue at full pace to wipe out the menace of foreign-sponsored and supported terrorism from the country.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov arrives in Bishkek to participate in meetings of CSTO statutory bodies

26 November 2025 15:37

During his visit, it is planned to discuss the military-political situation in the Organisation's member countries, adopt a number of joint documents aimed at strengthening the CSTO's military potential, improving mechanisms for responding to modern challenges and security threats.

At the end of the work, the results of the Organisation's activities during the intersessional period will be summarised and activities for the next year will be planned.

The meetings will be attended by delegations of the CSTO member states from Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, as well as heads of the Organisation's working bodies.

Department of Information and Media Affairs of Defence Ministry of the Russian Federation

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Meeting with President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon

Vladimir Putin met with President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon on the sidelines of the CSTO summit in Bishkek.

November 27, 2025

13:00

Bishkek

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Mr Rahmon, I am very pleased to have this opportunity to meet with you separately on the sidelines of our CSTO event to discuss further development of our bilateral relations.

Overall, matters are proceeding in accordance with our plans, which we coordinated during my recent visit. I wish to once again thank you for the warm reception extended to us in Tajikistan.

Progress is being made, and our governments are working on all priority areas. Most importantly, our trade turnover continues to grow. We also maintain constant contact on matters of regional security. We are fully aware of the situation at your borders. Our intelligence services and security ministries are cooperating closely.

Naturally, it is most useful to take this opportunity to meet in person and discuss all issues of special interest to both Tajikistan and Russia.

President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon: Mr Putin, thank you very much for the opportunity to meet.

I am delighted to accept your invitation to visit St Petersburg on December 21, as it is our tradition among friends to gather every year before the New Year - this has already become a custom.

Our bilateral relations are developing progressively. Trade turnover has increased by almost 20 percent compared to last year. In other words, there are no unresolved issues between our countries; everything is proceeding as planned. We agreed on this framework during your state visit, and now we will discuss all items on our agenda.

Thank you once again for this meeting.

Vladimir Putin: We look forward to welcoming you on December 21. I am sure this meeting will be pleasant, productive, and substantive.

We are preparing a rich programme, which you will find is connected to each of the republics. As you know, much of the cultural and historical value to all the peoples of the former Soviet space has been preserved from Soviet times, and I am certain you will find it interesting to explore.

Emomali Rahmon: During your state visit, you presented me with a most precious gift - the book entitled Tajiks.

Vladimir Putin: Yes, indeed. We will find something interesting this time too, something I am sure you will like.

Emomali Rahmon: Thank you.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






CSTO summit

A regular meeting of the Collective Security Council of the Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO) was held at the Yntymak Ordo government residence in Bishkek.

November 27, 2025

10:20

Bishkek

The CSTO summit began with a restricted format meeting held after a welcoming ceremony and a joint photo session.

Taking part in the meeting were President of Russia Vladimir Putin, President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko, President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Japarov, President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon, and CSTO Secretary General Imangali Tasmagambetov.

International consultations continued in the expanded format with the participation of the delegation members. The meeting participants reviewed interaction within the CSTO in 2025 and coordinated plans to improve the system of collective security. Vladimir Putin briefed his colleagues on the priorities of Russia's CSTO chairmanship in 2026.

A number of documents were signed following the summit, including the Declaration of the CSTO Collective Security Council and a statement on combatting drug trafficking.

The documents that have been signed include the decisions of the CSTO Collective Security Council on the CSTO collective security strategy, on the anti-drug strategy of the CSTO member states for 2026-2030, on measures to shape a positive image of the CSTO and its member states in the information space, on the action plan to develop military cooperation among the CSTO member states in 2026-2030, and on amending the Decision of the CSTO Collective Security Council on the CSTO Troops (Collective Forces) command and control system, approved on September 15, 2015.

In addition, the participants signed a statement of the CSTO Collective Security Council on strengthening cooperation to combat illegal drug trafficking.

* * *

Speech at the expanded-format meeting of the CSTO Collective Security Council

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Friends, colleagues,

Russia will assume the CSTO chairmanship on January 1, 2026, as was mentioned earlier. Its motto will be Collective Security in a Multipolar World: Common Goal, Shared Responsibility. Russia will do everything necessary to maintain continuity in the main spheres of interaction within the CSTO, developing cooperation between our countries based on the principles of true alliance, friendship and good neighbourliness, respect and consideration for each other's interests, and mutual assistance and support.

Over the past decade, the Collective Security Treaty Organisation has become a respected regional structure. The CSTO reliably guarantees security and stability in the Eurasian space while protecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of its member states. In the context of geopolitical tensions, it is logical that the task of promoting the collective interests and initiatives of the CSTO member states on the international stage is coming to the fore.

In this regard, the Russian side would like to propose holding an international expert forum on the creation of an equal and indivisible security architecture in Eurasia before the 2026 CSTO summit in Moscow. We intend to invite not only the delegations of the member states but also representatives of friendly countries and multilateral organisations and integration associations.

Of course, Russia will continue to work closely with its allies in all areas related to strengthening the CSTO's military capabilities, focusing its efforts on reinforcing the combat readiness of national forces and improving the command and control of the collective forces. We propose launching a large-scale programme to supply the collective forces with modern Russian weapons and military equipment, which have proven their effectiveness in military operations on the ground. It is in this spirit that we plan to organise a series of joint training events for our military units and special services, including during the next stages of our regular Interaction, Echelon and Search exercises. We believe that special attention should be paid to the development of the organisation's air force and air defence system.

Much remains to be done to improve the mechanisms for deploying peacekeeping forces. A key priority of Russia's chairmanship will be to develop cooperation among our states in securing the CSTO's technological leadership in the military sphere, with particular emphasis on deepening collaboration among defence industry enterprises.

Russia will also actively facilitate the introduction of the latest advancements in military medicine for use by the collective forces. We will, naturally, continue to provide assistance to the member states in the sphere of sanitary and epidemiological well-being, thereby supporting joint efforts to prevent and respond to outbreaks of dangerous diseases.

We expect to enhance the effectiveness of the Coordinating Council on Biosecurity, established within the CSTO on Russia's initiative in 2021. In our view, it would be prudent to hear a report from its leadership on the situation in this sphere at our next meeting.

During our chairmanship, we plan to start working together on the new CSTO counter-terrorism strategy. We will strive to do everything necessary to resolutely counter extremism. Together with our partners in the organisation, we will continue our work to identify and eliminate international terrorist groups and their cells, as well as to disrupt their channels of financing.

Among the most important priorities of the organisation's activities, I would also like to highlight information security. The Russian side is committed to close cooperation with its allies in preventing the spread of radical ideas among young people. We consider it imperative to take additional measures to protect our shared information space from such threats.

Undoubtedly, we will make every effort to further strengthen cooperation in combating drug trafficking. We will continue to conduct the Channel anti-drug operation, with the involvement of interested international participants.

As a forward-looking objective, we are considering the enhancement of the CSTO's information and analytical capabilities and the expansion of its network of auxiliary and consultative mechanisms. For instance, we believe the time is right to establish an Association of Analytical Centres of the CSTO Member States for international relations and security.

It would also be advisable to focus on developing inter-parliamentary cooperation to harmonise the national legislation of the organisation's member states.

Furthermore, given the growing scope of tasks facing our CSTO Secretariat and Joint Staff, we propose actively exploring ways to improve the efficiency of their work, undertake structural optimisation, ensure flexible adaptation to modern realities, and, of course, create conditions to attract highly qualified personnel for joint endeavours.

In conclusion, I would like to express my gratitude to Mr Sadyr Japarov for his hospitality and for the tremendous work carried out within the organisation under Kyrgyzstan's chairmanship.

I would also like to once again wish every success to the representative of Kyrgyzstan who has assumed the post of CSTO Secretary General. Naturally, we will provide him with all necessary assistance.

It has been agreed that the next session of the Collective Security Council will be held in Moscow on November 11, 2026. We will be delighted to welcome you to the Russian capital.

Thank you for your attention.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Press release on Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Pankin's participation in a joint meeting of the CSTO Council of Ministers of Foreign Affairs, the CSTO Council of Ministers of Defence, and the CSTO Committee of Secretaries of the Security Council

27 November 2025 10:49

1976-27-11-2025

On November 27, Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Pankin took part in a joint meeting of the Council of Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Council of Ministers of Defence, and Committee of Secretaries of the Security Council of the Collective Security Treaty Organisation, which was held in Bishkek under the chairmanship of the Kyrgyz Republic.

The officials held a constructive and earnest exchange of views on current international and regional issues. They discussed in detail the situation in the CSTO responsibility zone and adjacent regions and put an emphasis on their intention to continue stepping up their joint efforts to strengthen the CSTO potential.

They considered a number of documents intended for subsequent approval by the CSTO Collective Security Council, including the final Declaration and Statement on Strengthening Cooperation in the Fight against Illicit Drug Trafficking, as well as decisions on upgrading the collective security system. They also approved the candidacy of Kyrgyzstan's Taalatbek Masadykov nominated for the CSTO's next Secretary General and due to be presented to the CSTO leaders.

Given that the Russian Federation takes over as the CSTO Chairman on January 1, 2026, Alexander Pankin advised participants in the meeting on the main elements of Russian priorities in this position.

The next meeting of the CSTO Council of Ministers of Foreign Affairs will take place in Kazan in June 2026.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov holds talks with Minister of Defence of Kyrgyz Republic Major General Ruslan Mukambetov

27 November 2025 08:15

Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov held talks with Minister of Defence of the Kyrgyz Republic Major General Ruslan Mukambetov.

'We are facing great challenges touching the stability of the situation in Central Asia and the entire world. And it is our overall responsibility to ensure stability and security in this region,' Andrei Belousov said.

The Russian Defence Minister stressed that this is a mission the leaders of the both states have set 'and it is to be conducted effectively'.

The Russian Defence Minister noted that during the talks, it is necessary to 'look through a wide range of issues' basing on the experience of long-term cooperation between Russian and Kyrgyz defence ministries.

In turn, Kyrgyz Defence Minister Major General Ruslan Mukambetov, stressed that there have been many events in the framework of the CSTO this year as well as through bilateral military cooperation between Russia and Kyrgyzstan.

'The leaders of both countries have set the issues to elaborate. And we are obliged to implement the decisions of our presidents. To that end, we must make every effort to ensure that all the decisions taken are implemented,' the Minister of Defence of Kyrgyzstan said.

He also highlighted that all joint bilateral military cooperation activities were held in the interests of ensuring the security of the two countries at a high level including those held on the territory of the CSTO member states.

At the end of the talks, the Russian and Kyrgyz ministers approved a cooperation plan between defence ministries for 2026.

The talks between the heads of Russian and Kyrgyz defence ministries took place on the sidelines of the meetings of the Collective Security Treaty Organisation character bodies that took place on Thursday in Bishkek.

Department of Information and Media Affairs of Defence Ministry of the Russian Federation

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Russia's Turn to The East Not Related to Events in Ukraine - Putin

Sputnik News

20251127

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russia's turn to the East is not connected to the events in Ukraine, as Moscow has been paying more attention to this side of cooperation since the 2000s, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday.

"The point is not that we are making some kind of strategic U-turn in connection with the events in Ukraine. Since the 2000s, as I have said many times, we have really begun to pay more attention to this aspect of our interaction. Not because we have any problems with our European partners. No. This is because the economies of the countries of the East and the countries of the Great South are developing at a faster pace than the economies of Western countries," Putin said in an interview with Nomad TV editor-in-chief Natalia Krolevich.

The economy of the countries of the East and the Great South is developing at faster pace than that of the West, Putin added.

"The economies of the countries of the East, the countries of the Great South, it is developing at a faster pace than the economies of Western countries. The pace is growing here, in the East, and not in the European part of our subcontinent," Putin explained.

Putin also recalled the damage to the European Union from its refusal to cooperate with Russia in the energy sector and said that competitiveness in the bloc is declining and the German economy has been in recession for a third year.

"After the events in Ukraine, the Europeans themselves began to isolate themselves from us. In the energy sector, they have experienced the well-known result: competitiveness is declining, and the German economy has been in recession for the third year in a row," Putin said in the interview.

Russian President Vladimir Putin also said that he hopes for an end to the conflict in Ukraine, but if the goals of the special military operation are achieved

Vladimir Putin described the partners from the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) operating in the Russian market as reliable and stable

Vladimir Putin said that if Europe suddenly decides to return to economic cooperation with Russia, Moscow is not against it and is ready to work with everyone, Putin added

Russia and Kyrgyzstan are considering ways to minimize sanctions restrictions, but they are not focusing on this and thinking about the future

Kyrgyzstan already receives oil and gas from Russia at the lowest prices, creating favorable conditions for the republic

Russia has been assisting Kyrgyzstan in its efforts to promote education in Russian and opening Russian-language schools in the country

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Putin: Russia Ready to Share Weapons, Equipment With CSTO Partners

Sputnik News

20251127

Russia is ready to share weapons and equipment with its partners in the Collective Security Treaty Organization, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday.

We are providing preferential terms for the acquisition of our weapons and equipment for CSTO countries - it all works, and it works quite effectively," Putin told reporters following his visit to Kyrgyzstan.

CSTO countries will continue to conduct joint exercises, including those involving special services, Putin added.

Russia must first and foremost satisfy its own needs in defense industry during the special military operation, Vladimir Putin said.

"In the context of the special military operation, we currently have few opportunities for some components, that is, they are great, but we must meet our needs in certain areas. We are totally doing it. I do not think that our production capacities [in the field of the defense industry] are overestimated, but nevertheless we not only meet our needs and even export," Putin told reporters after his visit to Kyrgyzstan.

Russia not only fully meets its own needs for certain units of weapons and equipment, but also supplies them for export, Putin added.

Russia Done Much in Field of UAVs

Russia has done a lot in the field of unmanned vehicles, this is a revolutionary for the country, Putin said.

"Now, of course, we have done a lot of things simply. I believe this is a revolution for us in the field of unmanned vehicles and unmanned aerial vehicles," Putin told reporters after his visit to Kyrgyzstan.

Moscow Expecting US Delegation to Visit in First Half of Next Week

Moscow is expecting a US delegation to visit in the first half of next week, Vladimir Putin said.

"The latest information was brought to me yesterday that [US] President Trump has decided that... the meeting is proposed by the US side in Moscow next week. Please, we are always open. Well, who will represent the United States from the American side? This, of course, must be determined by the President of the United States. That is why we are waiting for them in the first half of next week," Putin told reporters after his visit to Kyrgyzstan.

Russia ready for a serious discussion of the US plan for the settlement in Ukraine, Putin said.

Russia in Contact With Armenia Through CSTO

Russia is in contact with Armenia through the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), Russian President Vladimir Putin said.

"Since it [Armenia] is a member of the organization, we are in contact with them, Russia," Putin told reporters after his visit to Kyrgyzstan.

Armenia's position on the participation in CSTO is its choice, and the countries of the association respect this, Putin said, adding that the decisions within CSTO will be coordinated with Armenia during Russian chairmanship of organization.

"They [Armenia] say that we support all decisions that are taken in the CSTO, we consider ourselves members of the CSTO, but at this stage we refrain from participating in meetings of this organization. Well, it is their choice, so if they think it is possible to work like this for now, well, we agree," Putin added.

Russia-Kyrgyz Relations Developing Positively, Investors Enter Market

The relations between Russia and Kyrgyzstan are developing positively, with Russian investors actively entering country's market, Russian President Vladimir Putin said.

"Indeed, relations are developing very positively. Our investors are working more and more actively in the Kyrgyz market," Putin told reporters after his visit to Kyrgyzstan.

Kyrgyz leadership is managing to ensure stable domestic political situation, which is important for investors, Putin explained.

Putin Calls Development of AI Extremely Important, Promising Area

Putin called the development of artificial intelligence an extremely important and promising area.

"[Russian tech giant] Yandex is actively developing artificial intelligence. This is an extremely important and promising area," Putin told reporters.

Russia's Medinsky, Foreign Ministry Officials Will Be Negotiators for Ukraine

Russian presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky and the representatives of the Russian Foreign Ministry will be Russia's negotiators for Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday.

"It is obvious who is the negotiator from the Russian side  the Foreign Ministry. When we really sit down at the negotiating table and discuss each of the proposed points of discussion in detail and seriously... On our side, on the part of the administration, this is Vladimir Rostislavovich Medinsky, presidential aide, he has been doing this from the very beginning. For current affairs, in order to organize all this work, my assistant Yuri Viktorovich Ushakov is also included in the work," Putin told reporters after his visit to Kyrgyzstan.

Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov is in touch with his American colleagues, Putin said.

"On current affairs, in order to organize all this work... My assistant, Yury Viktorovich Ushakov, is also in touch with his American colleagues, but he alone cannot do this, the Foreign Ministry must do this and, in part, the presidential administration. A large range of issues that need to be discussed," Putin said.

Russian Troops Showing Positive Dynamics at Front Line in All Areas

Russian troops are showing positive dynamics at the front line in all areas, Russian President Vladimir Putin said.

"Positive dynamics remains in all directions [for Russian troops]," Putin told reporters after his visit to Kyrgyzstan.

The pace of Russian troops' advancement in the combat zone is increasing, Putin said.

"In October, in my opinion, they [Ukraine] had more than 47,000 losses, some 47,500," Putin said.

The desertion level in the Ukrainian military is very high, Putin said, adding that the mobilization in Ukraine is forced.

"The main problem for the enemy is that they have a growing gap between losses and the number of troops they are able to send to the line of combat," Putin added.

Russia Ready for Dialogue on Pan-European Security If West Wants It

Russia is ready for dialogue on pan-European security if the West wants it, Russian President Vladimir Putin said.

"If our Western partners, we call them partners again, want this now, then go ahead, we are ready. We understand that we need to sit down and discuss this seriously; every word matters," Putin told reporters.

Russia Ready to Implement Projects to Build Small-Capacity NPP in Kyrgyzstan

Russia is ready to implement a project to build a small-capacity nuclear power plant (NPP) in Kyrgyzstan, Vladimir Putin said.

"We have plans, possibly, to build small nuclear power plants. Let me remind you again, Russia is the only country in the world implementing such projects. Many say they would be willing to do this, but so far we are the only ones doing it. And if Kyrgyzstan makes such a decision, our colleagues here are in contact with each other, and we will implement these projects," Putin told reporters after his visit to Kyrgyzstan.

Russia and Kyrgyzstan have plans to build small-capacity nuclear power plants in the republic, Putin said, adding that Russia is the only country in the world that implements projects for the construction of small-capacity nuclear power plants.

Kyrgyzstan buys Russian energy resources at a discounted price, which is important for the country's economy, Putin added.

Putin on Leaks of Ushakov-Witkoff Phone Conversations: Criminal Offense in Russia

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that leaks of official telephone conversations are a criminal offense in Russia.

"As for these leaks, they may be some kind of fakes, maybe really overheard conversations, actually, this is a criminal punishment, in our country anyway. One cannot eavesdrop," Putin told reporters after his visit to Kyrgyzstan.

On Wednesday, media published transcripts of alleged telephone conversations between Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov, US special envoy Steve Witkoff and the head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) and Russian special presidential envoy for economic cooperation with foreign countries, Kirill Dmitriev. Dmitriev called the agency's publication fake. Bloomberg claims to have reviewed the recording of the conversation on October 29. During the call, they allegedly discussed ways to interact with the United States on a plan for a Ukrainian settlement.

It Would Be Strange If Witkoff Criticized Moscow Before Talks With Russia

US special envoy Steve Witkoff is coming to Russia to negotiate, so it would be strange if he criticized Moscow in phone conversations, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday.

"Mr. Witkoff is apparently traveling to Moscow on [US] President [Donald] Trump's orders to negotiate with us. It would be surprising if he cursed us with obscenities in conversations with Ushakov... and then came back and tried to establish relations with us to improve his negotiating position. That is nonsense," Putin told reporters following his visit to Kyrgyzstan.

Those who are now criticizing Witkoff want to join Kiev in stealing money and fighting to the last Ukrainian, the Russian president added.

"He [Witkoff] is an American citizen, defending the position of his president and his country. Yes, we have a dialogue, and it is not easy. Yes, we conduct this dialogue without arguing or spitting at each other - like intelligent people. Each defends their own position. Mr. Witkoff, I repeat, defends the position and interests of the United States as he sees them and as those who delegate him for negotiations with Russia see them," Putin also said, adding that Witkoff's friendship with Trump lasts for many years.

The Russian president also called accusations of "favoritism" toward Russia against Witkoff unfounded.

Moscow Sees US Taking Russia's Position Into Account in Some Ways

Moscow sees that the US side is taking Russia's position into account in some ways, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated.

"Overall, we see that the American side is taking our position, which was discussed before Anchorage and after Alaska, into account in some ways. At some point, we absolutely need to sit down and seriously discuss specific issues. We need to put everything into diplomatic language," Putin told reporters after his visit to Kyrgyzstan.

There were no conflicts between Russia and the US after the Anchorage summit, but Washington suddenly imposed sanctions on Russian oil companies, Putin said, adding that the parties had an understanding of what needs to be done to resolve the situation in Ukraine after the Anchorage summit.

There is a clash of opinions in the West and the United States regarding the settlement of the Ukrainian conflict, Putin added.

Putin Says Russia Ready to Formally Confirm Absence of Intentions to Attack Europe

Russia is ready to formally confirm it has no intentions of attacking Europe, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday.

"It's one thing to declare that Russia has no intention of attacking Europe. To us, this sounds ridiculous - we've never had such intentions. But if they insist on hearing it from us directly, then fine - let's formalize it, we have no objections," Putin told reporters.

Putin accused foreign officials of exploiting unfounded security fears for political or economic gain.

"There are people who, in my view, seem slightly unhinged when they publicly tell their own population and citizens that 'Russia is preparing to attack Europe, and we must urgently strengthen our defense capabilities,'" the president said.

Putin added that, from Russia's standpoint, these claims hold no factual merit and reflect a deliberate distortion of reality rather than genuine security concerns.

Confiscation of Russian Immobilized Assets by EU Will Be Theft of Property - Putin

The confiscation of Russian immobilized assets would be considered as theft of property, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday.

"It is clear to everyone, everyone is talking about it directly, that it would be theft of property," Putin told reporters after his visit to Kyrgyzstan.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban knows better how the use of Russian assets will affect the EU economy, since Hungary is member of the union, Putin said.

"This will have negative financial consequences for the global financial system, because confidence in the eurozone will drop sharply," Putin said.

The Russian government is developing a package of countermeasures in the event of the EU stealing frozen Russian assets, Putin said.

"In this regard, of course, I have a question  who is teaching whom? Either the thieves in the elite of Ukraine, which steal the money of its taxpayers and taxpayers of Western sponsors, we are now well aware of the corruption scandal in Kiev, or they are learning this from the Europeans, or the Europeans are learning from the Ukrainian elite. In any case, both are theft," Putin concluded.

Putin Says Discussed Cross-border Cargo Traffic With Kazakh Leader

Putin said on that he discussed cross-border cargo transport issues with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and promised that Moscow would address the backlog.

"We discussed this issue with the President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. He understood everything and he had no questions or concerns. We agreed that we will do everything to ensure that the large number of trucks accumulated on our border, in Kazakhstan, can cross into Russia," Putin told reporters in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

The problem stems from a significant number of goods, trucks, and semi-trailers crossing the border without documentation, which was revealed after the Russian Federal Customs Service began random roadside checks, Putin added.

"As soon as the checks began, it turned out there were no documents at all. Undocumented goods ... are simply pouring into our customs territory," Putin said, adding that the problem is expected to be resolved by the end of 2025.

US Invites Russia to Discuss Issues Related to Nuclear Tests - Putin

Vladimir Putin said that the White House had invited Moscow to discuss issues related to nuclear tests.

"I have instructed to collect additional information about the actions of the US side, analyze it and submit to me a proposal on what we should do in this situation [the US conducting nuclear tests]. But one of the suggestions that we have received is to work together on this topic. It seems so to us because of what we see," Putin told reporters after his visit to Kyrgyzstan.

Russia should be ready for any development of events in the sphere of strategic stability, it will be ready, Putin said, adding that if the US doesn't want to do anything about the expiration of the New START treaty, then let it be.

Russia is ready to discuss strategic stability issues with the US, Putin added.

Russian, Ukrainian Intelligence Services Maintain Contact on Humanitarian Issues - Putin

Russian and Ukrainian intelligence services remain in contact on humanitarian matters, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday.

"Our intelligence agencies, in Russia and Ukraine, have always maintained contact with one another, even in the most difficult times, and they continue to do so now. What are they doing? They are addressing a number of humanitarian issues, primarily related to war prisoners' exchanges," Putin told reporters in Kyrgyzstan.

Abu Dhabi has frequently hosted such talks, he added.

"This platform is being used actively. We are very grateful to the President of the United Arab Emirates for the opportunities provided to us," Putin said.

US news outlet Axios has reported that a Ukrainian delegation led by Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine's military intelligence, held talks in Abu Dhabi with Russian and US officials.

"As for Abu Dhabi, I heard some media noise about this, but nothing unusual or secret took place there... At Ukraine's initiative, another meeting was planned and was held in Abu Dhabi. From our side, one of the Federal Security Service's senior officials participated. A representative of the US administration also attended  that was somewhat unexpected for us, but we never refuse contact," Putin told reporters.

The US representative established communication with the Russian side and proposed holding a meeting in Moscow this week instead of waiting another week to advance the talks, Putin said, adding that he learned of this only when his plane landed in Bishkek early this week.

Presidential Election in Ukraine Should Be Held as Soon as Martial Law Lifted - Putin

A Ukrainian presidential election and a referendum must be held as soon as martial law is lifted, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday.

"As soon as peace agreements of any kind are concluded and hostilities cease, martial law must be immediately lifted. And if martial law is lifted, [presidential] election must be announced immediately ... Then, after that, a referendum must be held on all territorial issues," Putin told reporters in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

The Ukrainian leadership made a strategic mistake when they did not hold presidential election, Putin said, adding that Russia holds elections, including presidential ones, even in conditions of the military operation.

It is difficult for the current Ukrainian leadership to count on winning the elections without fraud, Putin said.

Putin recalled that only the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine has the right to extend its powers under martial law, and the president does not.

If Ukraine's Troops Do Not Pull From Certain Territories, Russia Will Make Them - Putin

If the Ukrainian troops do not withdraw from certain territories, Russia will achieve it through military force, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday.

"The fighting will stop when Ukrainian troops withdraw from certain territories. If they do not do it, then we will make them by armed means," Putin told reporters.

The dynamics on the frontline are positive for Russia in all directions, the president added.

"This is evident not only from our media and the Defense Ministry's reports, but also from Western media. It is practically impossible to contain [the Russian advance], so there is hardly anything that can be done about it. The trend is positive in all directions," Putin said.

Front Collapse Inevitable for Ukraine If Kupyansk Situation Repeats in Other Areas - Putin

The collapse of the front line will be inevitable for Ukraine, if the situation in Kupyansk is repeated in other areas, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday.

"If everything that happened in Kupyansk continues to happen in the areas I have just mentioned, then the collapse of the front will be inevitable," Putin told reporters after his visit to Kyrgyzstan.

The enemy group in Kupyansk has been completely eliminated, and the whole city is in control of Russian forces, Putin stated, adding that Russian forces approached within 1.5 milometers (0.9 miles) of city of Gulyaipole in the Zaporozhye region.

If Ukraine does not cease hostilities, the the Ukrainian armed forces will lose their combat capability, Putin added.

"Some advise to save the backbone of the armed forces and your statehood. And others, who believe that Kupyansk has already returned to the control of the armed forces of Ukraine, insist on continuing hostilities to the last Ukrainian," Putin said.

Russia Will Not Be in Situation When US Conducts Nuclear Tests and Moscow Does Not - Putin

Russia cannot find itself in a situation where the United States conducts nuclear tests while Moscow spends another year and a half preparing for them, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday.

"Preparing for real nuclear weapons tests takes time, and we certainly cannot find ourselves in a situation where the United States will test it, and we will be preparing for it for another year and a half. Well, of course, we have to think about it already. We did not say that, but we have to be prepared for any eventuality. And, I assure you, we will be ready," Putin told reporters after his visit to Kyrgyzstan.

Russia Knows Orban's Position, It Is Quite Objective - Putin

Russia knows Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's position, and it is quite objective, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday.

"We know his position, and in my opinion, it is quite objective," Putin told reporters, adding that the Hungarian president sees realities on the ground and formulates his position based on them.

There are contacts with Hungary regarding a possible meeting with Orban, Putin said, adding that if Orban finds it possible to accept the invitation to come to Moscow, he is always welcome.

Russia Wants to Reach Agreement With Ukraine, But Doing So Legally Impossible Now - Putin

Russia ultimately wants to reach an agreement with Ukraine, but doing so is legally impossible at the moment, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday.

"Of course, we ultimately want to come to an agreement with Ukraine, but right now it's practically impossible, legally impossible," Putin told reporters.

"Signing documents with the Ukrainian leadership is pointless. I have spoken about this many times," he added.

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Chinese FM voices opposition to Japanese leader's infringing upon China's sovereignty and territorial integrity in talks with French presidential adviser

Global Times

By Global Times Published: Nov 27, 2025 11:22 PM

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held a phone call with diplomatic adviser to the French president Emmanuel Bonne at the latter's request, during which Wang reiterated China's position on the Taiwan question, stressing that provocative Taiwan-related remarks made by Japan's incumbent leader reverse the course of history and constitute an infringement on China's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

At France's request, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held a phone call with Emmanuel Bonne, diplomatic adviser to the French president, during which Wang reiterated China's position on the Taiwan question, stressing that provocative Taiwan-related remarks made by Japan's incumbent leader reverse the course of history and constitute an infringement on China's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, noted that the current international landscape is marked by intertwined turbulence, with new problems and challenges emerging one after another. He said China and France need to maintain regular dialogue and strengthen strategic coordination, as the strategic guidance of the two heads of state is crucial. Both sides should deepen all-round, mutually beneficial cooperation and elevate the China-France comprehensive strategic partnership to a new level.

Wang added that the two countries should inject new momentum into upholding multilateralism and advancing reform of global governance, demonstrating the responsibilities expected of permanent members of the UN Security Council.

He hopes that France will encourage the EU to pursue a positive and rational policy toward China, uphold the basic positioning of partnership, and properly address economic and trade differences through dialogue and consultation, promotes the healthy development of China-EU relations along the right track

As permanent members of the UN Security Council and comprehensive strategic partners, the two countries should jointly safeguard the outcomes of the victory of World War II and firmly support each other on issues concerning their core interests. China hopes that France will continue to firmly uphold the one-China principle, Wang said.

Bonne said that French President Emmanuel Macron looks forward to visiting China soon to further consolidate and deepen the friendship between the two heads of state, and to hold in-depth strategic communication on advancing France-China and Europe-China relations as well as jointly addressing global crises. He expressed confidence that the visit will guide the high-quality development of bilateral relations and contribute to world peace and stability.

Bonne noted France maintains an independent foreign policy tradition and remains steadfast in upholding the one-China policy, adding that Paris understands China's legitimate position on the Taiwan question.

France hopes to enhance mutual trust with China, strengthen dialogue and cooperation, and jointly tackle challenges such as global governance and economic imbalances. Healthy Europe-China relations are essential, and France is willing to play an active role in promoting EU-China dialogue and cooperation on the basis of strong France-China ties, according to Bonne.

The two sides also exchanged views on the Ukraine crisis. Bonne outlined France's position, while Wang said China supports all efforts conducive to peace, supports reaching a comprehensive, lasting and widely acceptable peace agreement, and supports building a balanced, effective and sustainable European security architecture. China is willing to maintain communication with France on this matter, Wang added.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Takaichi's claim of 'theory of undetermined Taiwan status' shows she remains unrepentant; 'San Francisco Peace Treaty' illegal, invalid: Chinese FM

Global Times

By Global Times Published: Nov 27, 2025 04:40 PM

Responding to Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's claims that under the "San Francisco Peace Treaty," Japan "is not in a position to determine or recognize the legal status of Taiwan," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Thursday that Takaichi's remarks deliberately ignore internationally binding documents while relying solely on the illegal and invalid "San Francisco Peace Treaty," once again showing she remains unrepentant and disregards UN authority. Guo warned that the international community should also remain highly vigilant.

According to the Yomiuri Shimbun, during a parliamentary debate on Wednesday, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi claimed that under the "San Francisco Peace Treaty," Japan renounced all right, title, and claim to Taiwan, and Japan is not in a position to determine or recognize the legal status of Taiwan.

When asked to comment on Takaichi's such remarks, Guo stressed at Thursday's press briefing that Taiwan island's return to China is an important part of the victory in World War II and the post-war international order. A series of internationally binding documents, including the Cairo Declaration, the Potsdam Proclamation, and Japan's Instrument of Surrender, all confirmed China's sovereignty over Taiwan.

Guo noted that the question of Taiwan's status was thoroughly resolved in 1945 with the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. On October 1, 1949, the Central People's Government of the People's Republic of China (PRC) was proclaimed, becoming the sole legitimate government representing the whole of China.

"This is a change of government in which China, as a subject under international law, did not change and China's sovereignty and inherent territorial boundaries stayed unchanged. Thus, the government of the People's Republic of China naturally and fully enjoys and exercises China's sovereignty, including sovereignty over the Taiwan region." Guo said.

Guo noted that the 1972 Sino-Japanese Joint Statement clearly stipulates that, "the Government of Japan recognizes the Government of the PRC as the sole legitimate government of China;" "the PRC government reaffirms that Taiwan is an inalienable part of its territory; and the Government of Japan fully understands and respects this position of the Chinese Government and adheres to the stance specified in Article 8 of the Potsdam Proclamation."

"The so-called 'San Francisco Peace Treaty' was a document issued to collude with Japan, excluding important WWII belligerents such as China and the Soviet Union," Guo said.

Guo stressed that this treaty violates the provision prohibiting separate peace with enemy states as stipulated in the Declaration by United Nations signed by 26 countries including China, the US, the UK, and the Soviet Union in 1942, as well as the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and basic norms of international law. Any disposition under this treaty involving China's territorial and sovereign rights as a non-signatory state, including the determination of Taiwan's sovereignty, is illegal and invalid.

"Takaichi deliberately ignored the Cairo Declaration and the Potsdam Proclamation, which possess full international legal effect and are explicitly emphasized in bilateral documents, while solely highlighting the illegal and invalid 'San Francisco Peace Treaty'," Guo said.

"This once again demonstrates that she remains unrepentant to this day, continues to undermine the political foundation of China-Japan relations established with the spirit of the four political documents between the two countries, disregards UN authority, openly challenges the post-war international order and basic norms of international law, and even attempts to hype up the so-called 'theory of undetermined Taiwan status,'" the spokesperson stressed. "This is adding insult to injury. China firmly opposes this, and the international community should also remain highly vigilant."

China once again urges Japan to earnestly reflect on its mistakes, retract its erroneous remarks, honor its commitments to China with concrete actions, and fulfill the minimum obligations of a UN member state with practical deeds, Guo said.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Minister of Defence Antti Hakkanen: Finland will strengthen its support to Ukraine by joining the Maritime Capability Coalition



Finnish Ministry of Defence

Ministry of Defence

Publication date 26.11.2025

Type:Press release

Finland's Minister of Defence Antti Hakkanen has decided that Finland will join the Maritime Capability Coalition, led by the United Kingdom and Norway. The Coalition aims to support the development of the Ukrainian Navy. Altogether 17 countries have joined the Coalition so far.

"Finland has joined several capability coalitions after a careful case-by-case consideration, always ensuring that our contribution will be sufficient and effective, bringing definite added value to the building of Ukraine's military capabilities," Minister Hakkanen said.

Finland has already joined the capability coalitions on artillery, armour, de-mining and information technology. These international capability coalitions aim to provide sustained support to Ukraine. They plan and guide the building of the future capabilities of the Ukrainian armed forces together with Ukrainians.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Tsahkna to German Schleswig-Holstein Minister-President: stronger cooperation in business and unwavering support for Ukraine

Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

27.11.2025 | 19:14

On 27 November, Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna met with Daniel Gunther, Minister-President of Germany's federal state of Schleswig-Holstein, who is on a visit to Tallinn. The meeting focused on advancing bilateral cooperation in the fields of cyber and digital affairs, security, education and the maritime economy, supporting Ukraine, and strengthening security in Europe and the Baltic Sea region.

Schleswig-Holstein is the first German federal state to test Estonia's data exchange platform X-Road. "We hope this will become our shared success story and inspire other federal states to move forward with the digitalisation of public services. Estonia is always ready to share its experiences and lessons learned," Tsahkna affirmed.

The Minister highlighted examples of business cooperation, including Estonian companies Insta Globe Engineering and Skeleton Technologies. The former has a branch in Kiel providing digital solutions for shipbuilding and the maritime industry, while the latter is opening a new supercapacitor factory tomorrow near Leipzig. To further develop business relations, Estonia also recently opened a business hub at its embassy in Berlin.

Speaking about Russia's ongoing aggression against Ukraine, Minister Tsahkna stressed that European countries' support for Ukraine must remain unwavering. "Ukraine fights every day for the whole of Europe, and it is our duty to help them in every way, contributing both to their defence capabilities and to reconstruction," Tsahkna said. He commended Minister-President Gunther for Germany's significant contribution to strengthening Ukraine's defence capacity, highlighting Germany's active role in the Tallinn Mechanism and IT Coalition networks, which help to bolster Ukraine's cyber defence capabilities.

Foreign Minister Tsahkna also underlined the need to continue strengthening the European Union's security architecture. "In recent months, Russia has increasingly provoked EU member states with hybrid attacks - violating our airspace with fighter jets and drones, and endangering critical underwater infrastructure and marine environments in the Baltic Sea with the actions of its shadow fleet," Tsahkna noted. "We must continue to increase defence spending and develop mechanisms to counter hybrid threats. Germany is also an important target market and cooperation partner for Estonian defence industry companies," the Minister said.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Minister Ville Tavio in Kyiv: Finland strongly supports construction of civil defence shelters in Ukraine

Finnish Government

Ministry for Foreign AffairsMinistry of the Interior

Publication date 27.11.2025 13.44

Type:Press release

The inauguration of the civil defence coalition co-led by Ukraine and Finland will take place in Kyiv on 27 November. Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Ville Tavio will attend the inauguration to announce Finland's EUR 11 million funding for constructing civil defence shelters. Finland has earlier confirmed approximately EUR two million in funding for the bilateral project, which makes Finland's total support to Ukrainian civil defence sector about EUR 13 million.

In Kyiv, Minister Tavio will sign a memorandum of understanding with five other countries that are joining the coalition at an early stage. Certain international financial institutions are also looking to collaborate with the coalition and intend to join, which will increase both the overall budget and the effectiveness of cooperation.

- Ukraine asked Finland to lead the civil defence coalition because we have strong civil defence expertise in both the public and private sectors. During my visit, I will discuss with Ukrainian decision-makers and bring together Finnish companies and Ukrainian responsible parties, Minister Tavio says.

Director General for Rescue Services Kimmo Kohvakka from the Ministry of the Interior will also be part of Minister Tavio's delegation. The Ministry of the Interior is responsible for the implementation of the bilateral project between Finland and Ukraine and will make Finland's civil defence expertise available to the coalition. The bilateral project aims to support Ukraine in developing its civil defence system and to provide strategic and technical support to the wider coalition.

During Russia's war of aggression, civilian buildings, schools and healthcare facilities have repeatedly been targeted by attacks. Currently half of Ukraine's population is without access to civil defence shelters, and an enormous number of additional shelters are needed for purposes such as delivering contact teaching for pupils. The coalition will help Ukraine launch this long-term effort with grant-based funding and a construction roadmap that will later enable Ukraine to continue construction with loans and blended financing.

Minister Tavio will also visit a Ukrainian school to learn about progress in the school meals reform supported by Finland and about expectations for the new comprehensive reform of general upper secondary education. The Minister will be introduced to the reconstruction activities of the Finnish company Peikko, and he will also visit the premises of the Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Center (UHMC), which has cooperation with Finnish agencies. As part of the cooperation between the Finnish Meteorological Institute and the UHMC, Ukraine joined the European weather observation system and successfully carried out major reforms to its own weather observation system. Cooperation has resulted in Ukraine purchasing equipment from Finland using its own financing and made it possible to continue business cooperation with FUIF funding.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






We expect the EU's 20th sanctions package in the near future: Yulia Svyrydenko

Ukraine Government

Department of Information and Public Communications of the Secretariat of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine, posted 27 November 2025 15:07

Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko took part in the inaugural Sanctions Summit, which brought together representatives of EU partner countries, the European Commission, and Ukraine.

"We focused on coordinating the next steps to strengthen the sanctions coalition in response to russian aggression. Our efforts are already producing tangible results. This month alone, russia's oil and gas revenues could fall by 35% compared to last year," Yulia Svyrydenko reported.

She stressed that sanctions are effective only when decisions are swift, coordinated, and politically bold.

"Sanctions must continually evolve and close loopholes for circumvention. That is why the process must go on, and we expect the 20th sanctions package in the near future," the Head of Government emphasised.

Yulia Svyrydenko separately highlighted the importance of using frozen russian assets for Ukraine's benefit: "russia must pay a high price for its aggression. We count on the European Commission adopting a decision in the near future on reparative loans based on these assets. It was encouraging to hear that our partners share our position."

The Prime Minister underlined that sanctions remain a vital instrument in Ukraine's fight for freedom, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

Yulia Svyrydenko also expressed gratitude to all partner countries, the EU Sanctions Envoy David O'Sullivan, representatives of the European Commission for their participation, and the Government of Denmark for facilitating the organisation of today's summit.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Andrii Sybiha and Baiba Braze discussed expanding defense cooperation between Ukraine and Latvia

Ukraine Government

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, posted 27 November 2025 13:23

On Thursday, November 27, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha held bilateral talks in Kyiv with Minister of Foreign Affairs of Latvia, Baiba Braze, who was making her fourth visit to Ukraine since she had assumed office.

Andrii Sybiha briefed his Latvian counterpart on the proposals for peace that Ukraine had received from the United States last week, as well as on the current work of the Ukrainian and American negotiating teams. The Minister emphasized the important role of Europe in the peace efforts.

"Ukraine will use every opportunity to find ways to end the war. We have coordinated further steps, and I am grateful to Ms. Baiba Braze for her advice and principled position," the Minister of Foreign Affairs said.

The parties paid special attention to increasing pressure on moscow to force the aggressor state to peace. The Minister stressed the need to adopt a strong 20th package of EU sanctions and decisions on a Reparations Loan as soon as possible in order to make full use of immobilized russian assets.

Following the talks, the parties agreed, together with other Baltic countries, to promote additional effective measures at the EU level to further counter russia's tanker fleet.

"The Baltic Sea should not contribute to russia's bloody oil earnings, which also pose risks to the environment," the Head of the Ukrainian diplomatic service stressed.

The ministers also discussed defense priorities for the coming year, in particular, expanding cooperation between Ukraine and Latvia in the field of joint production and technology exchange.

"We appreciate Latvia's assistance in training Ukrainian military personnel and its care for wounded defenders. We are grateful for its leadership in the Drone Coalition, within which Latvia has delivered 12,000 drones this year. We discussed increasing production and delivery volumes for 2026," Andrii Sybiha said.

Separately, the heads of diplomatic institutions focused on supporting Ukraine's energy system ahead of winter. The Ukrainian side is grateful for Latvia's additional contribution of EUR 125,000, contributing to the restoration of energy facilities, uninterrupted power supply, and stabilization of the energy system.

The Minister expressed his deep gratitude to Latvia for its comprehensive support for Ukraine from the first days of the full-scale invasion, in particular for its annual defense assistance amounting to 0.25% of Latvia's GDP. In total, its volume has already exceeded 1.6% of Latvia's GDP.

"This includes weapons, ammunition, training of military personnel, and financial support. We are also grateful to Latvia for joining PURL and for the recent transfer of 42 PATRIA 6x6 armored personnel carriers," the Foreign Minister added.

The Minister especially thanked Latvia for rebuilding critical and civil infrastructure in Chernihiv region and for providing vacations in Latvia for children from the Ukrainian region. The interlocutors discussed the implementation of this year's projects in Chernihiv region, totaling EUR 5.7 million, as well as prospects and priorities for next year.

"Yesterday, you opened two facilities in Chernihiv that had been rebuilt with Latvian funding: the pediatric wing of the Chernihiv Central District Hospital and the Human Rights Protection Center. We greatly appreciate these efforts," said Andrii Sybiha.

The Foreign Minister separately noted the importance of Latvia's election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council. According to him, this will open up new opportunities for promoting initiatives in support of Ukraine. The diplomats discussed deepening cooperation in the UN and other international organizations.

An important part of the visit was the presentation of archival diplomatic documents from the era of the Ukrainian People's Republic and the Ukrainian State, which were presented to the Latvian delegation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine. Among them are diplomatic documents of vice-consuls and consular agents of the Ukrainian State in Riga, kindly provided by the State Archival Service of Ukraine.

Presenting the exhibition to his Latvian colleagues, Andrii Sybiha emphasized that these documents testify to the long-standing diplomatic and interpersonal ties between Ukraine and Latvia. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine expresses its gratitude to the head of the State Archival Service, Anatolii Khromov, and the director of the Central State Archives of Supreme Bodies of Power and Government, Larysa Levchenko, for preparing materials for the presentation.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Update 330 - IAEA Director General Statement on Situation in Ukraine

International Atomic Energy Agency

27 November 2025

Vienna, Austria

123/2025

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has deployed additional staff to Ukraine's Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) this week to conduct a comprehensive safety assessment of the damaged New Safe Confinement (NSC) following a drone strike last February, IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi announced today.

At the request of the State Nuclear Regulatory Inspectorate of Ukraine (SNRIU), staff from the IAEA's Department of Nuclear Safety and Security joined the IAEA's Support and Assistance Mission to Chornobyl, which has been continuously present at the site since January 2023. Their objective is to evaluate the current condition and operational status of the NSC after the 14 February 2025 attack.

The NSC, completed in 2016, is a protective structure built to enclose the Shelter Object, which itself covers the remains of Unit 4 that was destroyed in the 1986 accident. While February's drone strike did not lead to any release of radioactive material, it caused significant structural damage, affecting the NSC's designed confinement function and projected lifetime. During the mission, the IAEA team will review the measures currently in place to mitigate risks and discuss the plant's plans to restore the NSC's functionality and address any potential nuclear safety concerns.

Separately, this week at Ukraine's three operating nuclear power plants - Khmelnytskyy, Rivne and South Ukraine - electricity output has largely returned to normal after last week's military attacks on the electrical grid. Nearly all power units are now operating at full capacity, with only one unit remaining at reduced power. Additionally, the high voltage power lines lost during the attacks have all been restored.

Following sustained attacks on Ukraine's electrical grid, the IAEA is preparing to deploy a team to visit several substations critical to nuclear safety. The expert mission will evaluate the latest damage and potential impact on NPP operations. The mission will be the sixth of its kind.

At the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), IAEA staff present at the plant has reported hearing military activity daily, often very close to the plant. On some days, the team reported hearing explosions and gunfire roughly 20 times - sometimes much more.

Despite the regular sound of military activities in the area, the IAEA team at the ZNPP have continued to conduct walkdowns across the plant to monitor and assess nuclear safety and security. In recent days, the team performed walkdowns of two turbine halls and the radioactive waste storage facilities. They also observed the testing of an emergency diesel generator and discussed the cooling water situation on-site, one of the most challenging topics for nuclear safety and security at the ZNPP.

The IAEA has organized a new round of deliveries under its comprehensive programme of assistance to Ukraine, bringing the total number of shipments to 185 since the start of the conflict.

The State Specialized Enterprises "Central Enterprise for the Management of Radioactive Waste" and "Association Radon" as well as the National Science Center "Kharkov Institute of Physics and Technology" received a range of items designed to enhance nuclear security, surveillance capabilities and field operations at the sites.

Under the IAEA's ISAMKO programme, the Ukrainian Geological Company received two water analysers and portable IT equipment to support field work. The State Scientific Research Institute of Laboratory Diagnostic and Veterinary Sanitary Expertise also received equipment for the cleaning of dioxins, a group of harmful environmental pollutants.

Under the IAEA's medical assistance programme, Varash hospital and the Rivne NPP received medical items and supplies, while the Netishyn hospital received a complete laparoscopic system.

The deliveries were made possible through financial support from the European Union, Italy, Japan and the United Kingdom.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Pokrovsk, Dimitrov Completely Surrounded - Putin

Sputnik News

20251127

BISHKEK (Sputnik) - The cities of Pokrovsk (Krasnoarmeysk) and Dimitrov are completely surrounded by Russian troops, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday.

"We will start with the area of responsibility of our Tsentr [Center] group. The main operations there are taking place in the Krasnoarmeysk direction and around the city of Dimitrov. They are completely surrounded, just as Kupyansk was," Putin told reporters in Bishkek.

Russian armed forces currently control 70% of Krasnoarmeysk's territory, while the Ukrainian army is losing its most combat-ready units in the area, Putin added.

The city of Volchansk in the Kharkov Region is also almost entirely under Russian control, and fighting continues inside Komsomolsk, where a significant number of buildings have already been liberated, Putin said.

"Our troops have approached this city [Seversk] from the east, south, and north. Active fighting is underway in the city. Of the 8,000 buildings there, about 1,700 are in our hands," Putin said, calling the situation difficult for Ukrainian troops.

Additionally, 15 Ukrainian battalions - about 3,500 personnel - are blocked on the left bank of the Oskol River, Putin said.

Meanwhile, Battlegroup Vostok has broken through enemy defenses and is rapidly advancing on the border of the Zaporozhye and the Dnepropetrovsk regions, the president added.

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






We Agree That US Plan For Ukraine Can Be Basis For Future Agreements - Putin

Sputnik News

20251127

Russia generally agrees that the US plan for the Ukrainian settlement could form the basis for future agreements, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday.

However, there is no draft agreement yet, as Russia was only presented with a list of issues that were proposed to be discussed and formulated in a final form, the Russian leader noted.

"We discussed this with the US negotiators before my visit... to Alaska. After that, this list of 28 points emerged. And, as I have already said, it was conveyed to us through certain channels. We reviewed it," Putin told reporters in Bishkek.

The 28-point list was divided into four parts during a meeting between US and Ukrainian negotiators in Geneva and then conveyed to Russia for review again, Putin said.

Speaking of the essence of the US peace plan, Putin said that it must be "translated into diplomatic language" and discussed in detail, as "every single word matters."

Putin stated that Russia had reviewed the initial US plan for settling the Ukrainian issue.

"In general, I have mentioned this many times before. Before my visit to the US, before the visit to Alaska, we discussed this with American negotiators. After that, the list of possible agreements consisting of 28 points emerged. And, as I have publicly announced, it was sent to us through certain channels. We reviewed it," Putin told journalists.

Putin said that there were no draft agreements on the Ukrainian issue, but rather a list of questions that were proposed for discussion.

"Regarding the draft agreement. Well, there were no draft agreements. There was a set of issues that were proposed to be discussed and finalized," Putin told journalists in response to a related question.

Every point of the plan for Ukraine that was handed over to Moscow is key, Vladimir Putin said on.

"Each of the issues that are outlined in the lists of issues that have been submitted to us... Each of them is a key topic. Therefore, this requires serious consideration," Putin told reporters after his visit to Kyrgyzstan.

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






US Zeroes In on Philippines to Recruit Mercs for Ukraine - Russian Foreign Ministry

Sputnik News

20251127

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The US has initiated a campaign to recruit hired guns in the Philippines to fight for Ukraine, with the German Embassy in Manila facilitating their travel by issuing Schengen visas, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Thursday.

"According to incoming information, US representatives have launched a campaign in the Philippines to recruit local citizens to fight on the side of the Ukrainian armed forces ... Preference is being given to former employees of Philippine security agencies and retired military personnel. Applicants are promised a monthly salary of $5,000," Zakharova told at a briefing.

The US-run recruitment drive, operated by a Florida-based security agency, includes training by American instructors and the issuance of German Schengen visas for recruits before they are sent to the conflict zone, the spokeswoman added.

"A work Schengen visa is provided by the consular section of the German Embassy in Manila," Zakharova revealed.

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Ukraine Loses Over 275 Soldiers in Battles With Russia's Forces in Pokrovsk

Sputnik News

20251127

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Ukraine has lost more than 275 soldiers in battles with Russian troops in the Pokrovsk (Krasnoarmeysk) direction, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Thursday.

"Over the past 24 hours, more than 275 servicepeople, a tank, four armored combat vehicles, and a pickup truck have been destroyed in the Krasnoarmeysk direction," the ministry said in a statement.

Units of Russia's Yug battlegroup have taken control of the village of Vasyukovka in the Donetsk People's Republic, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Thursday.

"Units of the Yug battlegroup took decisive action to liberate the village of Vasyukovka in the Donetsk People's Republic," the ministry said in a statement.

The liberation of Vasyukovka in the Donetsk region allows the Russian Armed Forces to strengthen their positions in the area for a subsequent advance towards the city of Slavyansk.

Russian forces repelled eight counterattacks aimed at breaking the encirclement north and north-west of Pokrovsk (Krasnoarmeysk)

Russian troops continue advancing in Pokrovsk (Krasnoarmeysk)

Russian air and missile forces struck UAV storage and command sites, a satellite communication station, as well as energy infrastructure used to support the Ukrainian Armed Forces

Air defense superiority: five guided aerial bombs, eight US-produced HIMARS rockets, one long-range Neptune missile and 263 UAVs were shot down by Russian air defense systems over the past 24 hours

Ukrainian losses: around 1,355 troops killed or wounded

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Witkoff's Visit to Russia Still on Track, No Reason to Question It - Russian Foreign Ministry

Sputnik News

20251127

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The visit of US special envoy Steve Witkoff to Russia is still on track, there is no reason to question it, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov said on Thursday.

"I have no reason to question this," Ryabkov told reporters.

When asked if Russia expect Witkoff to bring the latest version of the US plan for a settlement in Ukraine to Moscow, the deputy foreign minister said that Russia will work with whatever Witkoff brings to Moscow.

The deputy minister noted that this would not be the US Special Envoy's first visit to Russia, and that everything that could and should be communicated on the matter has already been conveyed through the presidential aide and press secretary.

On November 25, US President Donald Trump announced Witkoff's upcoming visit to Moscow for a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, adding that the time for his own personal meeting with Putin and Zelensky has not yet come. According to Trump, Witkoff will meet with Putin next week.

 Sputnik

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






UK welcomes US and Ukrainian work towards a just and lasting peace and underlines continued support for Ukraine against Russian aggression: UK statement to the OSCE

Speech

Ambassador Holland welcomes the meaningful progress between the US and Ukraine on delivering a just and lasting peace. Ukraine has consistently demonstrated its commitment to peace, while Russia continues to bombard Ukrainian cities, even while talks on peace are taking place. The UK will continue to stand by Ukraine.

From: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and Neil Holland

Published 27 November 2025

Location: Vienna

Delivered on: 27 November 2025 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

Neil Holland

Thank you, Mr Chair. The United Kingdom welcomes the joint statement issued by the US and Ukraine following their highly productive talks over the weekend in Geneva aimed at ending Russia's illegal war of aggression.

The UK is wholeheartedly supportive of the talks and will continue working with the US, Ukraine and our European partners to deliver a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. As my Prime Minister said earlier this week, both of those words - "just" and "lasting" - are important.

Ukraine has consistently demonstrated that it is the party of peace. President Zelenskyy agreed to a full unconditional ceasefire in March and made clear his readiness to meet President Putin in a neutral venue. They have engaged constructively and with sincerity in US-led peace efforts from the beginning.

In contrast, while the latest round of talks was taking place, Russia was raining down drones and missiles on Ukrainian cities. On Sunday night Russia attacked Kharkiv with a massive drone attack which struck residential buildings, powerlines and an educational facility. Four people were killed. The following night, Russia used 460 drones and 22 missiles to attack Kyiv, killing at least six people and injuring 12 more.

Russia knows that its position is absurd: to claim that it is serious about peace talks while maintaining its maximalist terms and attempting to bomb Ukraine's civilians into submission. For this reason, it uses its disinformation campaign to divide and deflect with nonsense claims about other government's approach towards peace talks.

The UK position is clear. We believe that the future of Ukraine is for Ukrainians to decide. For any deal to provide a just and lasting peace, it will need to protect Ukraine's sovereignty and security; uphold the principle that borders should not be changed by force; and ensure robust security guarantees are in place to prevent future Russian aggression.

In the meantime, the UK will continue our support for Ukraine and help ensure that they have the military equipment that they need to defend themselves from Russia's continued aggression, whilst sustaining economic pressure on President Putin to bear down on the revenues that are funding the war.

Thank you, Mr Chair.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






UK stands with Ukraine as Russia intensifies attacks: UK statement to the OSCE

Speech

UK Military Advisor, Lt Col Joby Rimmer welcomes progress at Geneva talks between the US and Ukraine, reaffirming support for Ukraine's sovereignty and a just peace. Ignoring a diplomatic solution, Russia escalates attacks, underscoring its disregard for negotiations. UK aid will continue.

From: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and Lt Col Joby Rimmer, Senior Military Advisor at the UK Delegation to the OSCE

Published 27 November 2025

Location: Vienna

Delivered on: 25 November 0002 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

We welcome the statements from the United States and Ukraine following their productive talks in Geneva. Both sides have made meaningful progress and reaffirmed that any agreement must fully uphold Ukraine's sovereignty and deliver a sustainable and just peace. The UK, alongside European partners, is fully engaged in this process and will continue working with international allies to build momentum for peace.

While diplomatic efforts were underway in Geneva, Russia launched massive waves of missile and drone attacks across Ukraine. On 23 November, as negotiators met to refine a peace framework, Russian forces struck Kharkiv, killing four civilians and injuring at least 17 others. Then, on 25 November, just hours after further talks had concluded, Russia unleashed one of the largest aerial attacks in weeks on Kyiv, killing six people and injuring more than a dozen. Residential buildings burned, and energy facilities were hit, knocking out water, electricity, and heat in parts of the capital. Strikes also hit Odesa, damaging port and energy infrastructure and injuring civilians, including two children.

These attacks question Russia's interest in ending the war or pursuing peace. The Kremlin continues to escalate violence and destruction as winter approaches. This is not the behaviour of a country seeking a negotiated settlement, it is an attempt to break Ukraine's resilience and destabilise Europe. Russia's staggering casualty numbers underscore a systemic prioritisation of military aggression over diplomacy. Despite suffering over 1.1 million casualties since 2022, including more than 250,000 soldiers killed or missing, and 357,000 in 2025 alone, Russia continues its offensive rather than pursuing meaningful negotiations. This persistence reveals a leadership willing to absorb catastrophic human losses to sustain a war that has failed to achieve its objectives. Such disregard for life signals a deep-rooted reliance on force as a primary tool of statecraft, illustrating that violence, not compromise, remains central to Russia's approach.

Meanwhile, Ukraine has consistently shown it is the party of peace, offering ceasefires, agreeing to meet President Putin (an offer he has so far avoided) and engaging constructively in negotiations. Russia, by contrast, continues to escalate violence and spread disinformation.

The UK's position is also clear: We will continue our support for Ukraine for as long as it takes, providing the military equipment they need to defend themselves and sustaining economic pressure on Putin to bear down on revenues funding the war. To date, the UK has committed 21.8 billion in support to Ukraine, including 13 billion in military assistance, 5.3 billion in non-military aid, and 3.5 billion in export finance for reconstruction and defence projects. In 2025 alone, UK military support will total 4.5 billion, including drones, artillery ammunition, air defence systems, and training for Ukrainian forces. We have also provided 357 million in humanitarian aid since the invasion, helping millions of Ukrainians survive through winter and rebuild their lives.

As NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has rightly said, we need a durable peace, not another Minsk agreement. That means ironclad security arrangements from the outset to ensure Russia can never invade again. The ball is in Russia's court. Until President Putin demonstrates a genuine commitment to peace, the UK will stand shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine and our allies to defend freedom and security in Europe. Ukraine can count on our unwavering solidarity as we work towards a peace that safeguards Ukraine's and Europe's vital security interests.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






UK reaffirms indivisibility of Helsinki principles amid ongoing Russian aggression in Ukraine: UK statement to the OSCE

Speech

Deputy Ambassador James Ford reaffirms commitment to the Helsinki Final Act as the cornerstone of European security. UK condemns Russia's aggression against Ukraine and calls for full respect of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and indivisible security.

From: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and James Ford

Published 27 November 2025

Location: Vienna

Delivered on: 26 November 2025 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

James Ford

The signing of the Helsinki Final Act was a milestone agreement for security and cooperation across Europe. The UK continues to see the Act's ten principles, including respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, human rights, and the peaceful resolution of disputes, as the fundamental basis for true security in Europe.

This year we should have been able to focus on the Helsinki Final Act's positive and historic legacy. A shining example of how - even in the midst of the Cold War, with Europe divided - our predecessors could agree on a set of fundamental principles for preserving peace in our continent. They did not do so lightly, or easily: every word in the Decalogue was painstakingly debated and negotiated. Their efforts developed the framework under which all our states committed to respect one another's security, and to protect the rights of our citizens.

But 2025 has instead been dominated by Russia's continued aggression against Ukraine. Russia's drones and missiles are still striking Ukrainian civilian targets indiscriminately. Russia remains unapologetic; it has been the victim of its aggression, Ukraine, that has shown serious commitment to peace.

The UK will continue to highlight and condemn Russia's aggression for as long as it persists. As we stated here at the OSCE earlier this year: 'doing so is necessary because of the obvious humanitarian imperative, but it is also a question of living up to our promises to one another when we signed the Helsinki Final Act.'

We therefore welcome the topic of today's Security Dialogue and would like to thank Finland for their ongoing support for discussion, for providing an exceptional panel of experts, and for the excellent supporting material.

The UK remains committed to the indivisibility of the Helsinki principles because that ensures they are treated as a single, interconnected framework. If one principle is ignored it undermines the credibility and effectiveness of the others. However, Russia has repeatedly distorted the Helsinki Final Act's principle of indivisible security by selectively interpreting it to oppose NATO enlargement while ignoring other core commitments, such as states' sovereign right to choose alliances. Moscow falsely frames NATO's open-door policy as a threat to its security, using this excuse for military aggression, including the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. This skewed interpretation contradicts the Act's balanced framework, which links security with respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and peaceful dispute resolution, principles Russia has persistently violated while it claims to defend indivisible security.

Reaffirming our commitments under the Helsinki Final Act, including the principle of the indivisibility of security, is essential to addressing the challenges we face today and to preserving stability across the wider European continent. The indivisibility of security reminds us that the security of one state cannot be achieved at the expense of another. This principle is not abstract, it is fundamental to reducing tensions and to preventing conflict.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Andrii Sybiha held phone talks with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands David van Weel

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine

27 November 2025 14:45

Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha: "I had a meaningful conversation with my Dutch friend David van Weel to build on the contacts between our leaders and discuss peace efforts.

I informed my Dutch colleague about further constructive engagement of Ukrainian and US teams.

We separately discussed ways to consolidate additional defense assistance for Ukraine from partners.

We are grateful to the Netherlands for its strong and consistent support in all areas."

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Ukraine and the United Kingdom conclude licensing agreement for large-scale production of the Octopus interceptor drone

Ministry of Defence of Ukraine

27 November, 2025, 9:35 AM EET

Delegations from the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine and the UK Ministry of Defence have signed a licensing agreement concerning the Ukrainian Octopus interceptor drone.

"Together with our allies, we are enhancing Ukraine's air defence capabilities. This is a historic precedent and a significant next step that will make it possible to produce Ukrainian interceptor drones in the United Kingdomdrones that have demonstrated their effectiveness against Shahed drones," stated Minister of Defence of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal.

According to him, the plan is to launch mass production of the interceptors, which could amount to several thousand units per month. The manufactured equipment will be delivered to Ukraine to strengthen its air defence.

Denys Shmyhal expressed gratitude to the UK partners for their cooperation, trust, and contribution to enhancing Ukraine's air defence.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Defense Support, Ukraine's Reconstruction, and the Diplomatic Process: Volodymyr Zelenskyy Met with Latvia's Foreign Minister

President of Ukraine

27 November 2025 - 18:32

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Latvia's Minister of Foreign Affairs Baiba Braze.

"Thank you for your visit. Thank you for visiting Chernihiv yesterday. It is very important for us when our friends and partners - foreign representatives - visit such places and help, for example, with rebuilding schools and kindergartens. This project is very important for us," Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.

The President emphasized the importance of Latvia's contribution to the PURL initiative, which makes it possible to procure air defense missiles, including for Patriot systems. The parties also discussed opportunities of using the SAFE mechanism.

The meeting also addressed prospects for joint weapons production. In addition, Latvia is a leader in the Drone Capability Coalition and has supplied Ukraine with about 12,000 drones this year.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Baiba Braze also discussed the current diplomatic situation. Both sides share the same position: it is necessary to ramp up sanctions pressure on Russia and continue the relevant work with partners.

"These are challenging times for Ukraine and for all of us. But Ukraine is strong and democratic. Latvia stands with Ukraine and will continue to do so," the Foreign Minister noted.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy presented Baiba Braze with the Order of Merit, II class, for her substantial personal contribution to strengthening intergovernmental cooperation and supporting Ukraine's state sovereignty and territorial integrity.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Representatives of 20 Countries and the European Union Discuss the Impact of Sanctions on Russia and Coordinate Next Steps at the Kyiv Sanctions Summit

President of Ukraine

27 November 2025 - 16:31

The two-day Kyiv Sanctions Summit has begun, where participants are analyzing the impact of the sanctions imposed on the Russian economy and discussing the next steps.

During the opening session, Prime Minister of Ukraine Yuliia Svyrydenko thanked the partners for the sanctions packages already adopted and for their joint efforts aimed at stopping Russia's war machine.

"All your actions and decisions are already significantly limiting Russia's ability to wage war. According to the latest estimates, the oil and gas revenues of the Russian budget may fall by 35 percent this month compared to last year. The numbers confirm the soundness of our joint actions, and we must continue to increase the pressure and make the sanctions more effective," she said.

Yuliia Svyrydenko emphasized that the next steps should encompass sanctions targeting Russia's energy sector and its shadow fleet, including restrictions on vessel crews, insurance companies, oil refineries and traders, suppliers of technologies and components for Russian weapons, as well as personal sanctions, limits on supplying weapon components, and restrictions on financial operations.

EU Sanctions Envoy David O'Sullivan stressed that the European Union's 19 sanctions packages, along with the restrictions imposed by the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, and Japan, are delivering results and affecting Russia's economy. He noted that this work must continue.

"This isn't about just one package or the next package - this will be a continuous process. As long as this horrific war continues, we will need to keep adapting, refining, improving, and addressing new sectors and loopholes as we identify them. So this will be ongoing work," he said.

Advisor - Commissioner of the President for Sanctions Policy Vladyslav Vlasiuk noted that the summit includes representatives from Ukraine, Belgium, the United Kingdom, Denmark, Estonia, Ireland, Iceland, Italy, Canada, Cyprus, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Germany, Norway, Poland, Finland, France, Sweden, and the European Union.

"Sanctions coordinators will hold a professional and frank discussion about the impact of sanctions and their synchronization across partner jurisdictions, as well as potential new opportunities to intensify pressure on Russia. A critical issue remains preventing foreign components from reaching the Russian Federation. Summit participants will be able to examine Russian weapons and the foreign-made components found inside them," he said.

Vladyslav Vlasiuk highlighted that since the beginning of this year, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed 56 decrees introducing sanctions, including against Russia's military-industrial complex, its shadow fleet, Russian propagandists, and the financial sector. Since January 2024, the State Sanctions Register has been in operation, already containing more than 20,000 sanctioned individuals and entities. According to him, work on the European Union's 20th sanctions package against Russia is nearing completion.

The result of the summit will be the development of the next steps to strengthen the sanctions coalition.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






The President of Ukraine Held a Phone Call with the President of the Philippines

President of Ukraine

27 November 2025 - 12:36

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a phone call with the President of the Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

The Head of State expressed his condolences to the President of the Philippines over the lives lost and the destruction caused by the typhoons.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy briefed his counterpart on joint work with the United States and other partners on steps toward establishing a guaranteed peace. The President expressed his gratitude for the Philippines' support for the peace efforts, for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and for the clear stance.

The leaders discussed areas of cooperation: food security, agriculture, and digitalization. The Philippines is also interested in the expertise and technologies Ukraine can offer. The Heads of State agreed that their teams will follow up on all these matters in the near future.

In addition, Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted that the Embassy of Ukraine has been operating in Manila for almost a year and proposed opening the Embassy of the Philippines in our country. Ferdinand Marcos Jr. supported this proposal.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Explainer: Is the new Ukraine "peace plan" a real deal for peace?

People's Daily Online

(Xinhua) 08:17, November 28, 2025

The main sticking point is likely to remain territory, a key issue left unresolved in the revised plan.

WASHINGTON, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- The U.S.-proposed 28-point "peace plan" was unveiled last week. Following its release, representatives from the United States, Ukraine and several European countries met in Geneva on Sunday to discuss the plan.

Through discussions, the revised plan has been cut down to 19 points but not been made public, marking the latest shift in the ongoing diplomatic push to end the four-year-old war.

How close, then, does the revised plan come to real peace?

DIPLOMACY EFFORTS AS WAR RAGES

In the hope of finalizing the draft plan, U.S. President Donald Trump said Tuesday he has directed his special envoy Steve Witkoff to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, while Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll is expected to meet Ukrainian officials in the coming days.

The Kremlin confirmed on Wednesday that "a preliminary agreement has been reached."

Citing an unnamed source, Axios reported on Tuesday that a Ukrainian delegation led by Ukrainian Defense Intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov has been holding talks with both the Russian and the U.S. sides in Abu Dhabi, capital of the United Arab Emirates.

However, as diplomatic efforts to end the war continued, strikes still spread. Ukraine on Wednesday reported another night of Russian air strikes, with a drone attack in Zaporizhzhia wounding more than a dozen people and damaging dozens of homes, governor Ivan Fedorov said.

Russia, meanwhile, said its air defenses had shot down 118 Ukrainian drones overnight, including 52 over the border region of Belgorod.

Amid intensifying battlefield pressures and the growing strain on Kiev's finances, the International Monetary Fund said on Wednesday it had reached a staff-level agreement with Ukraine on a new four-year, 8.2-billion-U.S.-dollar program to help the country preserve macroeconomic stability and shore up public finances.

CLOSER TO PEACE?

As U.S. media reported, the initial plan required Ukraine to give up territory, curb its military and abandon North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) membership, with Russia offering a promise to cease future attacks. This has caused worry.

While the specifics of the revised plan remain undisclosed, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Tuesday that "the principles of this document can be expanded into deeper agreements," but that "much depends" now on Washington.

Ukraine has made clear it will not amend its Constitution as part of any potential peace deal. "We have stated that Ukraine will not accept any form of recognition and Ukraine will not make any changes to the Constitution -- these are red lines," said Oleksandr Bevz, an adviser to the head of Ukraine's presidential office, Interfax-Ukraine reported Wednesday.

The main sticking point is likely to remain territory, a key issue left unresolved in the revised plan. The original plan required Kiev to surrender the entire eastern Donbas region, home to an estimated six million people.

Although Russian forces have made gains there over the past four years, large portions of the region remain under Ukrainian control, and Kiev has deemed any demand to relinquish it unacceptable.

Trump has insisted that progress was being made and claimed Moscow was offering concessions, even though the war -- with Russian forces steadily advancing -- was "moving in one direction." But Russia rejected that characterization. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov told reporters on Wednesday: "There can be no talk of concessions, nor of abandoning our positions on the key issues."

"We've seen it and it was delivered to us, but there have been no discussions yet," Yuri Ushakov, Russian presidential aide, told state television, adding that "some aspects can be viewed positively, but many require expert-level examination."

Asked the same day whether a peace deal was close, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said it was "premature to say that," according to media.

"This so-called 'peace plan' has real problems, and I am highly skeptical it will achieve peace," U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, the Republican chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, said in a statement on Friday.

REACTIONS IN EUROPE

The original disclosures have drawn sharp reactions in Europe, where officials fear being sidelined in the negotiating process and view aspects of the draft as favoring Russia.

Referring to the plan, French President Emmanuel Macron pointed out that there are "conditions" for "this peace to be acceptable," although "any initiative that leads to peace is a good thing."

"Ukraine's territory and sovereignty must be respected. Only Ukraine, as a sovereign country, can make decisions regarding its armed forces. The choice of their destiny is in their own hands ... I also want to emphasize Europe's centrality in the country's future," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on Monday.

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul also said on Monday it was clear that nothing could be "agreed over the heads" of the Europeans and Ukraine. It must be ensured that Ukraine's sovereignty is preserved, he added, and Ukraine itself must decide what concessions it makes and when.

NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address






Vancouver, November 27, 2025 - KO Gold Inc. (CSE: KOG) ("KO Gold" or the "Company") announces that it has entered into debt settlement agreements (the "Settlement Agreements") to settle outstanding debts owed to certain creditors totaling $493,471.24, including outstanding fees owed to management and contractors working for KO Gold (the "Debt Settlement"). Pursuant to the Settlement Agreements, the Company has agreed to issue an aggregate of 2,467,356 common shares at a deemed price of $0.20 per common share to settle the debts.

Securities issued pursuant to the Settlement Agreements will have a statutory hold period of four months and one day in accordance with applicable securities laws. Following closing of the Debt Settlement, the Company's balance sheet will be strengthened through the elimination of the applicable liabilities

Two insiders of the Company will be participating in the Debt Settlement, settling an aggregate of $282,871.24 of indebtedness through the issuance of 1,414,356 common Shares. Such participation constitutes a "related party transaction" under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company is relying on the exemptions from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 contained in sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a), respectively, on the basis that the fair market value of the insider participation does not exceed 25% of the Company's market capitalization.

About KO Gold Inc.

KO Gold is a Canadian junior exploration company listed on the CSE under "KOG". The Company's strategy is to acquire and explore highly prospective gold properties within the Otago Gold District in New Zealand and has an ongoing program of permit exploration and drilling. KO Gold presently has four 100%-owned exploration permits and one exploration permit under application (Carrick Range) within the Otago Gold District for a combined land package of 400 km2. The Company's Smylers Gold, Hyde and Glenpark EPs are located adjacent to OceanaGold's Macraes Gold Mine and the Carrick EP hosts the historic Carrick Goldfield which holds promise as a significant gold deposit near Santana Minerals' Bendigo-Ophir Gold Project. The Company also has an NSR on three additional permits including Garibaldi, Raggedy Range, and Rough Ridge South totaling 340 km2. KO Gold has on and drilling on its permits in the Otago Gold District over the past five years including RC and diamond drilling on its Smylers Gold EP.

The CSE has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release. 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 news release.

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation, including statements with respect to the completion of the Debt Settlement, the issuance of the commons shares, the receipt of any required regulatory approvals, and the anticipated effects of the Debt Settlement on the Company's financial position and business strategy. Forward-looking information is based on the reasonable assumptions, estimates, expectations, analyses and opinions of management made in light of its experience and perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, as well as other factors that management believes to be relevant and reasonable in the circumstances.

Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual events, results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. These risks, uncertainties and factors include, among others: the risk that the Debt Settlement may not be completed on the terms or timeline currently contemplated, or at all; the risk that required regulatory or stock exchange approvals will not be obtained or will be obtained subject to conditions; general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; risks related to exploration and mining operations; volatility in commodity prices; risks related to the Company's ability to maintain stock exchange listings; risks related to future financing requirements; and the risk factors discussed in the Company's continuous disclosure documents available under the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is made as of the date hereof and is expressly qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, except as required by applicable securities laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/276232
Stearman Resources Inc. (CSE: STMN) ("Stearman" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that shareholders approved all routine matters put forward at the Company's Annual General Meeting ("AGM") held earlier today in Vancouver, British Columbia. At the AGM, Mr. Lester Esteban and Mr. Matthew Schwab were appointed to the Board of Directors, which remains at five, including continuing directors, Mr. Howard Milne, Mr. Kirby Renton and Mr. James Place and now adds Mr. Esteban and Mr. Schwab.

Mr. Matthew Schwab is an acclaimed exploration geologist who, in 2014 as Senior Exploration Geologist at NexGen Energy Ltd., was instrumental in the discovery of the Arrow uranium deposit located in the southwestern Athabasca Basin. Mr. Schwab was also a member of the Hathor Exploration Ltd. development team, where he contributed to the sale of the Roughrider deposit to Rio Tinto for $654 million. More recently, he served as Chief Executive Officer of Kraken Energy Corp. His prior roles include co-founding Axiom Exploration Group Ltd. and serving as President, Senior Advisor, and Founder of multiple successful private and public mineral exploration and energy consulting firms within the Canadian mining and petroleum industries. Mr. Schwab currently serves as Chief Executive Officer and Director of Stallion Uranium Corp. and as Executive Director of Atomic Minerals Corp.

The Company is also pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Kirby Renton as Chief Operating Officer, In addition, the Company announces that Mr. Steve Mathiesen has resigned as Chief Financial Officer ("CFO") and Corporate Secretary of Stearman. The Company thanks Mr. Mathiesen for his contributions and wishes him well in his future endeavors. The Company is also pleased to report that Mr. Rick Mah has been appointed CFO and Corporate Secretary effective today.

Mr. Mah has more than 25 years of corporate finance experience in technology, finance and hospitality industries. During that time, he has held progressively senior finance roles with public and private companies. He has supported numerous financing activities helping raise over $700 million of capital. In addition, he was a key contributor in a number of strategic transactions, ranging from $1 million to $3.4 billion, including valuation and integration activities. Rick holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Simon Fraser University and is a Chartered Professional Accountant and CFA Charter holder.

Lester Esteban, CEO and director, commented: "2026 is expected to be an important year for Stearman Resources as we continue advancing our exploration strategy and evaluating opportunities to expand our land position. Our operational focus remains on progressing high-potential uranium targets and preparing for drill programs anticipated to begin in the second and third quarters of the year.

As exploration work advances, the Company expects to provide regular technical updates, including geological observations and assay results when available, consistent with standard disclosure practices for a CSE-listed exploration issuer. In parallel, management will continue reviewing additional uranium properties that may complement the existing portfolio.

This planned activity is intended to deliver multiple operational milestones throughout 2026, including target refinement, drilling, and project expansion work. We look forward to keeping shareholders updated as this work progresses."

The Company also announces that it has amended the terms of a previously disclosed consulting advisory agreement dated September 25, 2025 with 1000968866 Ontario Ltd. (the "Consultant"). Under the amended agreement, the Consultant will continue to provide financial, marketing, strategic and market-related advisory services to the Company for an extended term of twelve (12) months which commenced on November 17, 2025, in consideration for a total fee of $221,000 CAD. The Company will not issue any securities to the Consultant in consideration for the services. The Consultant does not have any prior relationship with the Company and the Company and the Consultant deal at arm's length. As of the date hereof, to the company's knowledge, the Consultant (including its directors and officers) do not own any securities of the Company.

About Stearman

Stearman Resources Inc. is a Canadian-based junior mineral exploration company doing business as UraniumX Discovery Corp., singularly focused on advancing uranium discovery in Canada's Saskatchewan Athabasca Basin. Its core assets sit on the eastern margin of the Athabasca Basin, a premier global district known for hosting 10 of the world's top 15 highest-grade uranium deposits.

Murphy Lake Uranium Property is the Company's flagship, where Stearman is earning up to 70% through an option with F4 Uranium. Adjacent to the world-class Wollaston Domain, the property benefits from conductors, strong alteration, and proven 2022 drilling that intercepted anomalous radioactivity near the Basin's unconformity.

The Company also owns 100% of the Zoo Bay Uranium Project (15 claims; 19,850 ha), positioned near structural and magnetic features historically linked to uranium-thorium occurrences and conductivity corridors near Newnham Lake and neighbouring claims.

Stearman further holds a 100% interest in the NeoCore Uranium Property (6 claims; 13,012 ha), located 65 km southeast of McArthur River Mine, within a stable, high-grade mining district supported by mills, power, all-season roads, and established exploration infrastructure.

Exploration programs incorporate geophysics, drilling, and a research collaboration with University of Saskatchewan leveraging quartz-degradation analytics to sharpen target selection.

On Behalf of Stearman Resources Inc.

Lester Esteban, CEO

Contact:

Stearman Resources Inc.

Howard Milne, President

Email: hdmcap@shaw.ca

Telephone: (604) 377-8994

Website: www.stearmanresources.com

Forward Looking Statements

This news release may contain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. All statements in this release, other than statements of historical fact, that address events, conditions, or developments the Company expects or anticipates may occur, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding: the Company's exploration and development plans; the anticipated benefits of recent management appointments; the Company's expectations regarding its amended consulting advisory agreement; and the Company's general strategic, operational and financial objectives.

Forward-looking statements are often identified by words such as "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "intends", "believes", "estimates", "projects", "potential", or variations of such words, and phrases such as "may", "could", "would", "should", or "will" 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 expressed or implied in the statements.

Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated, including, but not limited to: risks related to mineral exploration and development; changes in commodity prices and market conditions; operational risks; uncertainties inherent to geological interpretations and exploration results; risks related to regulatory approvals and compliance; reliance on key personnel; the Company's ability to effectively implement management and operational transitions; and other risks described in the Company's public disclosure documents available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information except as required by applicable securities laws.

The CSE has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release. Neither the CSE nor its regulation services provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.



THIS NEWS RELEASE IS NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES


Frontier Lithium Inc. (TSXV: FL) (FRA: HL2) (OTCQX: LITOF) ("Frontier" or the "Company") is pleased to announce its financial results for the six month period ended September 30, 2025, and highlights from this interim period are set out below. The financial statements and the related management's discussion and analysis for the period ended September 30, 2025 have been filed on SEDAR+ and can be viewed under the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company's website at www.frontierlithium.com.

The Company continues to advance its PAK lithium project (the "PAK Lithium Project" or "Project") and assess the viability of constructing and operating a fully-integrated lithium mine and chemicals processing facility to deliver battery-grade lithium carbonate and lithium hydroxide for the burgeoning lithium-ion battery market in North America.

Highlights for the Quarter Ended September 30, 2025, and Recent Developments

Financial

As at September 30, 2025, the Company had cash and cash equivalents of $14.9 million, supported in part by the receipt of $909,000 in reimbursement from government funding programs and an additional $634,000 in proceeds from the exercise of stock options. This liquidity positions the Company to meet its current corporate and administrative requirements while advancing key development and strategic objectives.

Exploration and Development

There has been no drilling on the PAK Lithium Project since September 2024. A full record of drilling results from Phase I through Phase XIV (2013-2024) are available in the NI 43-101 Technical Report filed on July 9, 2025 by the Company.

The Company continues environmental baseline studies and related technical work required to advance project permitting.

On July 9, 2025, the Company published the Mine and Mill Feasibility Study ("Mine and Mill FS") dated effective May 28, 2025. The Mine and Mill FS outlines a standalone operation producing 200,000 tonnes per year of 6% lithium oxide ("LiO") spodumene concentrate ("SC6"), reporting a post-tax net present value of $932 million (8% discount rate) and a post-tax internal rate of return of 17.9%. The Mine and Mill FS incorporates updated mineral resources, a chemical grade lithium concentrate (CG SC6) price assumption of US$1,475 per tonne, and a USD/CAD exchange rate of 1.37.

The Mine and Mill FS considers a 31-year mine life supported by reserves at both the PAK and Spark deposit, with grades of 1.96% LiO and 1.44% LiO respectively and demonstrates a competitive C1 cost of $602 per tonne of concentrate sold.

The Company has also initiated the Lithium Conversion Facility Feasibility Study ("Lithium Conversion Facility FS"), led by Fluor Canada Ltd., with completion expected in the first half of 2027.

Permitting, Government and Regulatory

In October 2025, the Company was selected as the first participant in Ontario's One Project, One Process ("1P1P") Framework Guidance initiative. The program is intended to streamline and modernize provincial permitting, improving coordination among ministries and Indigenous partners and enabling more efficient review timelines for advanced mineral projects.

Frontier is also pleased to recently report the findings of an independent socioeconomic impact study completed by Ernst & Young LLP (EY) for the Company's proposed integrated mine, mill, and conversion facility in Northwestern Ontario. The study underscores the transformative economic contribution of the PAK Lithium Project to the region and to Canada's broader Critical Minerals Strategy, highlighting its importance within the G7 Critical Minerals Production Alliance. EY's analysis estimates that construction of the Company's mine, mill, and conversion facility would generate approximately $1.5 billion in gross domestic product ("GDP"), $124 million in tax revenues, and 2,163 full-time equivalent jobs over a three-year construction period. Over 30 years of operations, the PAK Lithium Project is expected to contribute $183 million in GDP annually, $12 million in annual tax revenues, and support 950 full-time equivalent jobs. These results reinforce the Project's potential to anchor a resilient, North American battery materials supply chain and meaningfully support the global energy transition. For further details on the study, see the full EY Socioeconomic Impact Study on Frontier Lithium's website at https://www.frontierlithium.com/socioeconomic.

Corporate

The Company also announces the departure of Mr. David Ewing, Vice President of Sustainability and External Affairs of the Company, effective December 12, 2025. Trevor Walker, President and CEO, thanks Mr. Ewing for his leadership and contributions in sustainability, Indigenous relations, and regulatory engagement. A management transition plan has been established to ensure continuity of Sustainability deliverables as the Project advances.

Infrastructure

The Company continues to collaborate with Federal and Provincial governments and Indigenous communities on northern infrastructure planning, including all-season road and power access required to support commercial operations and long-term project development.

Outlook

With a positive Mine and Mill FS and the Lithium Conversion Facility FS underway, the Company continues to advance plans for integrated, scalable lithium production in Ontario. Work is ongoing to secure necessary infrastructure, further engineering, and long-term agreements with Indigenous rights holders to support the transition from exploration to development.

Annual General Meeting Results

The Company further announces the voting results from its annual general meeting of shareholders of the Company (the "Meeting"), which was held on Thursday, November 27, 2025, at the Company's head office in Sudbury, Ontario, Canada. All meeting matters and resolutions put before the shareholders of the Company, and as more fully described in the Company's Notice of Annual General Meeting of Shareholders and Management Information Circular, dated October 14, 2025, were approved by the requisite majority of votes cast at the Meeting.

About Frontier Lithium

Frontier Lithium Inc. is a pre-production mining company with an objective to become a strategic and integrated supplier of premium spodumene concentrates as well as battery-grade lithium salts to the growing electric vehicle, and energy storage markets in North America. The Company's PAK Lithium Project maintains the largest land position and resource in a premium lithium mineral district located in Ontario's Great Lakes region.



About the PAK Lithium Project

The PAK Lithium Project is a fully integrated critical minerals initiative in Ontario, developing a high-grade, large scale lithium resource. Operated as a joint venture between Frontier (92.5%) and Mitsubishi Corporation (7.5%), the project is advancing in parallel with a mine and mill, north of Red Lake, Ontario and a downstream lithium conversion facility in Thunder Bay, Ontario, which are both key to supporting a secure domestic lithium supply for the clean energy transition. A 2025 Mine and Mill Feasibility Study (FS), prepared by DRA Global Limited and entitled National Instrument 43-101 Technical Report FS PAK Lithium Project, Mine and Mill, outlines a 31-year Project life with an after-tax net present value of $932 million at an 8% discount rate and an after-tax internal rate of return of 17.9%.These results have been disclosed in the Company's press release dated May 28, 2025, and the accompanying technical report was filed on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) on July 9, 2025.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this release, other than statements of historical fact constitute forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements contained in this news release may include, but are not limited to, the EY study estimates including but not limited to gross spending, GDP, wages, full time equivalent employment and possible tax revenue, the PAK Lithium Project and its estimated economics, and statements with respect to: capital requirements and private and/or public financing initiatives and completion of these financings (if any), estimated mineral resources, estimated capital costs to construct a mine and conversion facilities, estimated operating costs, estimated cash flows, net present value, the Feasibility Study and statements that address future production, resource and reserve potential, exploration drilling, exploitation activities and events or developments that the Company expects, including but not limited to capital and operating costs, timelines, internal rates of return, and project development milestones.

Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward looking statements include: market prices for commodities, increases in capital or operating costs, construction risks, availability of infrastructure including roads, regulatory and permitting risks, exploitation and exploration successes, continued availability of capital and financing, financing costs, and general economic, market or business conditions. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and those actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. For more information on the Company, please review the Company's public filings available 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.

SOURCE Frontier Lithium Inc.
NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

VANCOUVER, November 28, 2025 - Sun Peak Metals Corp. (TSXV:PEAK)(OTCQB:SUNPF) ("Sun Peak" or the "Company") is pleased to announce it has closed its oversubscribed non-brokered private placement, previously announced on October 16, 2025, for aggregate gross proceeds of $6,668,622.10 (the "Offering") on November 27, 2025, comprised of:

16,032,470 subscription receipts (the "FinCo Subscription Receipts") of a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company ("FinCo") at a price of $0.35 per FinCo Subscription Receipt for gross proceeds of $5,611,364.50; and

3,020,736 subscription receipts of Sun Peak (the "Sun Peak Subscription Receipts", and together with the FinCo Subscription Receipts, the "Subscription Receipts") at a price of $0.35 per Sun Peak Subscription Receipt for gross proceeds of $1,057,257.60.

The Offering was completed in connection with the proposed acquisition (the "Transaction") by the Company of all issued and outstanding shares of Saudi Discovery Company SPV Limited ("SDC") with the net proceeds of the Offering are expected to be used for advancement of the Company's Shire VMS Project, for working capital and general corporate purposes and initial exploration work at SDC's properties on completion of the Transaction. For additional information on the Transaction, please refer to the Company's news releases dated September 18, October 15 and October 30, 2025.

In connection with the Offering, the Company and FinCo have agreed to pay cash finder's fees to certain finders (the "Finders") equal to 6% of the gross proceeds raised by each Finder for an aggregate of $131,121.46 ("the "Commission"), and issued to Finders 299,760 non-transferable finder's warrants of FinCo (the "FinCo Finder Warrants") and 56,873 non-transferable finder's warrants of Sun Peak (the "Sun Peak Finder Warrants"), representing 6% of the aggregate number of Subscription Receipts sold to purchasers introduced to the Company by such Finders, which will be exercisable upon conversion of the Subscription Receipts. Half of the Commission has been paid, with the balance to be paid upon conversion of the Subscription Receipts. Each FinCo Finder Warrant and Sun Peak Finder Warrant are exercisable to acquire, respectively, one common share of FinCo and one common share of Sun Peak, at a price of $0.50 per share, for a period of thirty-six (36) months from the date of closing the Offering, subject to acceleration in certain situations.

The Offering is subject to the final approval of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV").

Insider Participation

Insiders of the Company subscribed for a total of 500,000 FinCo Subscription Receipts and 1,730,000 Sun Peak Subscription Receipts of the Offering, for aggregate gross proceeds of $780,500. The participation of insiders in the Offering constitutes a "related party transaction", within the meaning of TSXV Policy 5.9 and Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61?101"). The Company has relied on the exemptions from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61?101 contained in sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61?101, in respect of the related party participation in the Offering, as neither the fair market value (as determined under MI 61?101) of the subject matter of, nor the fair market value of the consideration for, the transaction, insofar as it involved the insiders, exceeded 25% of the Company's market capitalization (as determined under MI 61?101).

Subscription Receipt Terms

Each FinCo Subscription Receipt will be automatically exchanged upon the satisfaction of Escrow Release Conditions (as defined below), without any further action by the holder of such Subscription Receipt and for no additional consideration, for one unit of FinCo (a "FinCo Unit"). Each FinCo Unit shall consist of one common share of FinCo ("FinCo Share") and one-half (1/2) of one warrant of FinCo (each whole warrant, a "FinCo Warrant").

Following closing of the Offering, FinCo is expected to amalgamate with another wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, with FinCo surviving as a wholly owned subsidiary of Sun Peak. Upon completion of the Transaction, each FinCo Share will be exchanged for one common share of Sun Peak ("Sun Peak Share") and each FinCo Warrant will be exchanged for one warrant of Sun Peak ("Sun Peak Warrant"), exercisable to acquire one Sun Peak Share at an exercise price of $0.50 per Sun Peak Share for a period of thirty-six (36) months from the date of issuance, subject to acceleration in certain situations. In addition, each FinCo Broker Warrant will be exchanged for one Sun Peak Broker Warrant.

Each Sun Peak Subscription Receipt will be automatically exchanged upon the satisfaction of Escrow Release Conditions (as defined below), without any further action by the holder of such Subscription Receipt and for no additional consideration, for one unit of FinCo (a "Sun Peak Unit", and together with the FinCo Units, the "Units"). Each Sun Peak Unit shall consist of one Sun Peak Share and one-half (1/2) of one Sun Peak Warrant.

All securities issued pursuant to the Offering are subject to a four-month and one-day hold period from the date of closing the Offering, other than the Sun Peak Shares, Sun Peak Warrants and Sun Peak Broker Warrants issued pursuant to the Amalgamation in exchange for the FinCo Shares, FinCo Warrants and FinCo Broker Warrants, which will not be subject to a statutory hold period.

Escrow and Escrow Release Conditions

The gross proceeds of the Offering, net of half of the Commission, have been placed in escrow (the "Escrowed Funds") pending satisfaction of the Escrow Release Conditions, which include: (i) the completion, satisfaction or waiver of all conditions precedent to the Transaction in accordance with its terms; and (ii) receipt of all required shareholder approval at a special meeting of shareholders to be held on December 1, 2025, and regulatory approvals, as applicable. Upon satisfaction of the Escrow Release Conditions, the Escrowed Funds will be released to FinCo and to the Company and the Subscription Receipts will be automatically converted into Units.

If (i) the Escrow Release Conditions are not satisfied by 11:59 p.m. (Vancouver time) on February 25, 2026, or (ii) the Company announces that the Transaction will not proceed, then the Subscription Receipts will be cancelled and the Escrowed Funds, together with any interest earned thereon, will be returned to the holders of the Subscription Receipts. To the extent that the Escrowed Funds are insufficient to return to holders an amount equal to the original purchase price of the Subscription Receipts, the Company and FinCo will be responsible for any shortfall.

ABOUT SAUDI DISCOVERY COMPANY

Saudi Discovery Company is a pioneering exploration company advancing high-potential mineral projects in Saudi Arabia, aligned with Vision 2030.

ABOUT SUN PEAK METALS CORP.

Sun Peak is advancing the district-scale Shire VMS Project in the Tigray Region of northern Ethiopia. The project covers six exploration licenses totaling approximately 1,450 square kilometers within the highly prospective Arabian-Nubian Shield, the same geological environment as the Bisha Mine and the Asmara Projects in Eritrea.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF SUN PEAK METALS CORP.

Greg Davis,

President, CEO & Director

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:

Greg Davis

(T): +1 (604) 999 1099

(E): info@sunpeakmetals.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.

Caution to US Investors

The securities referred to in this news release 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, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons absent registration under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws, unless an exemption from such registration is available. This news release does not constitute an offer for sale of securities for sale, nor a solicitation for offers to buy any securities. Any public offering of securities in the United States must be made by means of a prospectus containing detailed information about the company and management, as well as financial statements. "United States" and "U.S. person" have the respective meanings assigned in Regulation S under the U.S Securities Act.

Disclaimer for Forward-Looking Information

Certain information and statements in this news release may be considered forward-looking information or forward-looking statements for purposes of applicable securities laws (collectively, "forward-looking statements"), which reflect the expectations of management regarding its disclosure and amendments thereto. Forward-looking statements consist of information or statements that are not purely historical, including any information or statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future. Such information or statements may include, but are not limited to, the terms, the anticipated use of proceeds; the satisfaction of the Escrow Release Conditions; the completion of the Transaction; the timing and mechanics of converting the Subscription Receipts into Units and the subsequent exchange of FinCo securities for Sun Peak securities; the payment of the balance of the finder's fees; and the receipt of all necessary approvals. Such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results, performance or developments to differ materially from those contained in the statements. No assurance can be given that any of the events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will occur or, if they do occur, what benefits Sun Peak will obtain from them. These forward-looking statements reflect management's current views and are based on certain expectations, estimates and assumptions, which may prove to be incorrect. A number of risks and uncertainties could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including without limitation: including the risk that the Offering or the Transaction is delayed or not completed on the terms described herein or at all; the risk that required approvals are not obtained; and market conditions. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release and, except as required by applicable securities laws, Sun Peak assumes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results differed from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Additional information about these and other assumptions, risks and uncertainties are set out in the "Risks and Uncertainties" section in the Prospectus filed with Canadian security regulators.

SOURCE: Sun Peak Metals Corp.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire
Baltimore County's Del. Adrienne A. Jones was unanimously elected the next speaker of the Maryland House of Delegates on Wednesday, making history as the first woman and African American to hold the position.In a state that had never elected anyone but white males as speakers, Jones, 64, emerged as a compromise candidate -- endorsed by progressives, Republicans and the Legislative Black Caucus -- after an intense, closed-door battle between Baltimore's Del. Maggie McIntosh and Prince George's County's Del. Dereck Davis, both Democrats, produced no consensus winner.McIntosh initially won a vote of the Democratic Caucus by 58-40 over Davis, but then the Republican Caucus announced its 42 votes would go to Davis, setting up a bitter floor fight some feared would divide the state -- and the Democratic Party -- for years. That's when both McIntosh and Davis approached Jones, the quiet, but well-respected speaker pro tem who had bowed out of the race last week.When the House convened after hours of negotiations for the special session to elect the speaker, it was McIntosh who nominated Jones for the speaker's position. She was given a rousing standing ovation."These walls will never be the same!" declared McIntosh, referencing the large portraits of the past House speakers -- all white men.McIntosh said of Jones: "She is the hardest-working person in this House. I look around and think: 'How can she do all that?' She has, like, five jobs and she does them all with grace and dignity."Then Davis stood to second the nomination of Jones, whom he called "a dear friend.""'House of Cards' doesn't have anything on us. Talk about high drama," Davis said.He praised Jones' courage and conviction in leading the House in the final weeks of this year's General Assembly session, when Speaker Michael Busch was hospitalized with pneumonia. Jones served as Busch's second-in-command until his death on April 7.The final vote was 139-0. The House again rose for another standing ovation for Jones.At a news conference following the vote, Jones was flanked by Davis and McIntosh. She pointed to them and said: "It is because of these two individuals ... that I'm in this position that I am in today."After Busch's death, Jones said she waited several days to begin making calls in her bid for speaker, while her rivals immediately began working the phones in pursuit of votes. She dropped out of the race last week and endorsed Davis at a Legislative Black Caucus event in which she said she wanted to put party unity ahead of self-interest."Discussion went back and forth within our caucus in terms of who could get the 71 votes and because of these two individuals that put unity of this House before their own ambition ... they both came and talked with me separately that they would want me to be that person," Jones said of the vote Wednesday.Anne Arundel County Del. Nic Kipke, the House minority leader, appeared alongside the Democrats at a press conference and said Jones has been "a great friend" to the Republican delegates."Our Caucus is proud to have been a critical piece in this historic election and we offer heartfelt congratulations to the new Speaker of the House," Kipke said.Jones has been a member of the House since 1997, when she was appointed to fill a seat left vacant by the death of Del. Joan N. Parker. Jones was chairwoman of a subcommittee that handles the budget for state construction projects, putting her in touch with lawmakers around the state who seek support for projects in their districts.Freeman Hrabowski, president of the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, celebrated the elevation of Jones, an alumnus. He called Jones' election an example of politicians working together for the common good."What we saw here in the Maryland House of Delegates is what we want to see in our country, which is people finding the common ground and focusing on the public good. That is the theme here today," Hrabowski said.Hrabowski said Jones, who earned a psychology degree from UMBC, is a hard-working leader who focuses on "evenness and a willingness to listen to different points of view."The race had grown nasty in its final stretch as Davis supporters attempted to win with Republican votes. Maryland Democratic Party Chairwoman Maya Rockeymoore Cummings tried to intervene in the fight -- calling it "unacceptable" for all Democrats not to unite behind the winner of the caucus vote.That prompted Del. Darryl Barnes, chairman of the Legislative Black Caucus, to accuse Rockeymoore Cummings of "bullying and threatening" his members.Then some delegates accused the Barnes of making a homophobic remark against McIntosh -- which he denied -- and some lawmakers began referring to the race as "toxic."After Wednesday's vote, Barnes said the Legislative Black Caucus was "extremely pleased" by Jones' victory."Since the first speaker was elected in 1777, no African American has held the post," he said. "I want to particularly thank all the members of the caucus for coming together to support Speaker Jones. Without them this historical vote would not have happened."Todd Eberly, a political scientist from St. Mary's College of Maryland, said Jones' willingness to step aside showed leadership."Last week Adrienne Jones was willing to walk away from the Speaker race and now she is the Speaker," he wrote on Twitter. "A person willing to give up power is precisely the type of person we should entrust with power."Ralph Moore, a longtime Baltimore activist who supported Jones' bid for speaker, said it was "only appropriate" she emerged victorious."I'm tired of seeing the upper reaches of our government either be all male and all white," Moore said. "Adrienne is qualified. It was her turn."Moore said he's known Jones since they were kids. Jones grew up in Arbutus and attended church with him in Harlem Park at Saint Pius Memorial Roman Catholic Church. He said he sees Jones' election as an opportunity to boost the Baltimore region from a powerful position in Annapolis.Moore noted that Jones' selflessness in stepping aside during the race in hopes of unifying the party ended up benefiting her."There's a certain karma in what happened," Moore said. "She was honorable, and that's not in large supply down there. Adrienne is great. It means there can be some change in our state. It was perfect in every way."Maryland's Speaker of the House has tremendous power to guide the direction of the state. Jones will be able to appoint committee chairs and make committee assignments and help dictate which legislative policies succeed or fail. She said she had no immediate changes to leadership positions."I didn't think I would be here when I left my house this morning," Jones said.
Ferrari scraps Hamilton-linked F44 project amid tension

Fresh tension has emerged at Ferrari as reports in Italy claim the team has scrapped a special road-car project linked to Lewis Hamilton - the so-called "F44".

Lewis Hamilton, Las Vegas GP 2025

 Ferrari

According to the Terruzzi Racconta podcast, Hamilton privately requested a bespoke special-edition model that was initially approved before being quietly abandoned.

Giorgio Terruzzi, a well known Italian F1 journalist, reported that the reversal made the seven time world champion furious .

Terruzzi explained that the project had been promised before being abandoned or at least put on hold .

Another well-known Italian journalist, Pino Allievi, was blunt.

"The F40 was a car that celebrated Ferrari's 40th anniversary, as desired by Enzo Ferrari. And now they're making an F44 just because a driver is crying?

I would say Ferrari is doing the right thing.

He added that ultra-VIP clients can request one-offs but warned that the brand's heritage must not be diluted.

The news comes days after chairman John Elkann told Hamilton to talk less , and after Hamilton described 2025 as the worst season of his long career, admitting following the Las Vegas GP that he is not looking forward to 2026.

Allievi drew a sharp comparison: It reminds me of Schumacher when he went to Mercedes.

He suggested 2026 will be decisive for whether Hamilton can still fight at the front, assuming he is even still in the cockpit .

Former Ferrari driver Rene Arnoux, speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, also sees Hamilton's age as a growing factor.

Antonelli had a great debut season at 18, he said. "This is why I see Hamilton's situation as difficult - he's 40 years old and he can't perform for the entire season like he could years ago.

Regardless of Hamilton's situation, the car wasn't up to par, and that was evident with Leclerc. The hope is that next year they can exploit the new regulations and finally give fans satisfaction after so many years.

(GMM)
Marko doubts Newey to make good Aston boss

Dr Helmut Marko has poured cold water on the shock decision to make Adrian Newey Aston Martin's next team principal - while Fernando Alonso insists the legendary designer was already functioning as de-facto leader behind the scenes.

Adrian Newey, Lawrence Stroll

 Aston Martin Racing

Speaking to Kleine Zeitung, Marko - one of Newey's closest former colleagues at Red Bull - admitted he was stunned.

That really surprised me, he said. We'll have to see how that plays out in practice.

Marko warned the new role means deeper involvement in race-weekend operations and management - something he believes is not Newey's strongest suit.

That's certainly not his strength, he said. "His great strength lies in design, car setup, and the quality of production and development.

It has surprised me greatly that he will now be moving more towards team management.

Alonso, however, fiercely defended the move and said Newey has already been operating like a boss.

To AS newspaper, he said in Qatar: "He was already leading the technical development of the car and the team, identifying the necessary personnel and areas for improvement.

Internally, he was doing a lot of management, and Andy was handling the engine integration with the chassis.

The Spaniard said the team's rapid growth makes Newey's leadership critical.

This team is still very young, he said. We need the guidance of leaders like Adrian. We have the two most successful individuals in the history of the sport - Adrian Newey and Andy Cowell.

According to Alonso, the new title simply makes official what was happening anyway.

He was a bit of a behind-the-scenes boss, he said. He was going to be in charge of everything even without the official 'team principal' title. With Cowell focusing more on the engine, fuel and Honda, everyone is in their place.

He did, however, hope Newey will still have enough time for his obvious strength - design.

The role of team principal is different nowadays - media, sponsors, commitments, Alonso said. I hope Adrian doesn't have to do all of those and can concentrate on the important stuff.

Christian Horner had been linked with the role before Newey's appointment, with reports claiming Newey even gave his former Red Bull boss a tour of the Silverstone factory last week.

Ultimately, Lawrence Stroll did not offer him a position.

I don't think we need any additional people in the leadership, Alonso added. But that's not my responsibility.

(GMM)
McLaren's Stella pushes for floor DQ rule review

McLaren has arrived in Qatar still dealing with the fallout from its double disqualification in Las Vegas, with team boss Andrea Stella revealing the FIA is already examining whether the floor-wear regulation needs adjusting.

Andrea Stella, Azerbaijan GP 2025

 McLaren

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc - who suffered an identical plank-wear DSQ in China - publicly backed McLaren's argument that the rule can punish teams for tiny, unpredictable variations.

A difficult rule, Leclerc said in Qatar.

I'm convinced no team goes out on track knowing they have an illegal car. It takes very little - even just a gust of wind - to change everything, and it's so difficult to predict all the scenarios. These are aspects that will need to be discussed.

Stella made clear McLaren has pushed the FIA to consider proportionality.

Minor and accidental technical infringements with minimal deviations that result in no performance advantage should not lead to such disproportionate consequences, he said.

The Italian stressed the team has no concerns about a repeat this weekend.

We have a proven method for car setup and are confident we can develop an optimal plan for the upcoming races, starting with Qatar, he said.

The incident in Las Vegas was due to an anomaly in the car's handling characteristics, caused by the specific track layout, and not the result of an excessive or unreasonable pursuit of maximum performance.

But Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli disagrees entirely.

I mean, that's the rule, he said. "With these cars, the lower you run them, the more lap time you gain. So obviously you need to set a limit, and if you go beyond that limit, of course you're gaining an advantage, and that's why you get a penalty.

Sometimes you have external circumstances and that's unlucky, of course, but the rule is the rule. It is what it is. I think next year we're not going to have as much of an issue with the new regulation.

The FIA is expected to address the topic with teams in upcoming Technical Advisory Committee meetings.

(GMM)
Shock as Newey becomes Aston Martin team boss

Aston Martin has stunned the paddock by announcing that Adrian Newey will take over as team principal from 2026, with Andy Cowell moved into a new strategy role.

Adrian Newey, Monaco GP 2025

 Aston Martin Racing

The upheaval follows weeks of internal tension and high-profile departures inside the Silverstone outfit.

Auto Motor und Sport's Tobias Gruner reported that seven key engineers - including aerodynamic chief Eric Blandin - had been on the chopping block , allegedly on Newey's recommendation, with the team primarily poaching from Newey's former team, Red Bull .

Gruner added that relations between Newey and Cowell had become strained. Rumors circulated in Las Vegas that things were getting heated behind the scenes, he wrote, with names like Horner and Seidl being linked to Cowell's job.

Instead, Lawrence Stroll has handed the role to Newey himself.

According to Gruner, the decision surprised the paddock because the 66-year-old is known as a quiet, ingenious tinkerer rather than a classic team boss.

Cowell will stay on as Chief Strategy Officer, coordinating Honda, Aramco and Valvoline and overseeing 2026 PU integration.

Speculation has grown that Aston Martin's 2026 project may not be running smoothly. Gruner wrote that one rumour suggested the new Honda unit was carrying a few extra kilograms , though the team has not confirmed it.

Aston Martin formalised the restructure late on Wednesday.

Newey said he is looking forward to taking on this additional role , while Stroll said the changes will enable the team to play to its collective strengths for 2026.

Cowell had been in the job just over a year.

(GMM)
Africa regional Chinese-language teaching competition concludes in Tanzania

Xinhua) 13:23, November 28, 2025

DAR ES SALAAM, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- The 2025 "Chinese Language Teaching Idols," an international Chinese language teaching skills exchange event, has concluded in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

The event, held from Monday to Wednesday, was led by the Center for Language Education and Cooperation of China's Ministry of Education and co-organized by the Confucius Institute at the University of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and China's Zhejiang Normal University.

It attracted 67 Chinese-language teachers from 11 countries, including Tanzania, Mozambique, Cameroon, Madagascar, and Zimbabwe, for professional exchange, competition, and cultural engagement, said Zhang Xiaozhen, Chinese co-director of the Confucius Institute at the University of Dar es Salaam.

Judges praised the participants for integrating local cultural contexts and advancing cross-cultural teaching methods.

Zhang said the competition has become an important platform for showcasing the innovation and professionalism of African Chinese-language teachers, emphasizing that the Confucius Institute would continue strengthening curriculum development and cultural exchange to further contribute to China-Africa educational cooperation.

Yu Tianqi, deputy director of the Center for Language Education and Cooperation, underscored the increasing global influence of the Chinese language and reaffirmed continued support for China-Africa collaboration in language education.

Chinese Ambassador to Tanzania Chen Mingjian noted that Chinese education has become a powerful catalyst for deepening China-Tanzania ties, praising the Confucius Institute for setting a benchmark in bilateral educational cooperation and noting that the competition injects new vitality into the development of Chinese language teaching in Tanzania.

Saad Mtambule, head of Kinondoni District, Dar es Salaam, said the event not only strengthens teaching skills but also enhances people-to-people friendship and creates opportunities for Tanzanian youth in future China-Tanzania cooperation.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Oscar Piastri

 McLaren

Oscar Piastri set the early benchmark for Formula 1s Qatar Grand Prix weekend, leading McLaren team-mate Lando Norris by just 0.058s in the lone practice session at the floodlit Losail circuit.

With the 2025 season approaching its conclusion and Qatar hosting the final sprint event of the year, teams treated the single hour of practice as a condensed race-weekend warm-up, completing extensive hard-tyre running before switching to softs for late qualifying simulations.

Mercedes George Russell established the first representative time, a 1m22.165s, after 20 minutes on the hard compound  a lap that stood for more than half the session. Max Verstappen briefly chased that benchmark despite reporting that his Red Bull RB21 was jumping a lot over Losails high-speed compressions. Carlos Sainz, Alex Albon, and Isack Hadjar also featured prominently as teams ran a mix of fuel loads while gathering data for a Sunday race already locked into a two-stop strategy courtesy of Pirellis mandated 25-lap stint limit.

The McLarens initially lagged on the hard tyres. Norris, at one stage 1.6s off Piastri, wondered over team radio where the lost time had gone, while Piastri logged steady long-run laps in the 1m22.3s range. Both came alive as soon as soft tyres appeared for the final runs. Norris delivered a 1m20.982s  the first dip below 1m21s  before abandoning his second flyer. Piastri struck moments later, producing the session-defining 1m20.924s to finish practice fastest.

Fernando Alonso secured third for Aston Martin with a 1m21.310s, four tenths away from Piastri, narrowly ahead of Sainzs 1m21.404s for Williams. Hadjar impressed again with a 1m21.503s in fifth, just 0.001s quicker than Verstappens 1m21.504s. Albon followed with a 1m21.609s, while Charles Leclerc and Lance Stroll logged near-identical laps of 1m21.668s and 1m21.669s respectively. Andrea Kimi Antonelli completed the top 10 for Mercedes with a 1m21.698s after a busy 32-lap programme.

Further back, Nico Hulkenbergs 1m21.783s and Lewis Hamiltons 1m21.794s placed the pair 11th and 12th. Yuki Tsunoda matched that group at 1m21.796s, with Russell sliding to 14th once soft-tyre runs tightened the field. Haas duo Oliver Bearman (1m21.926s) and Esteban Ocon (1m22.096s) split the Saubers of Gabriel Bortoleto (1m21.926s) and Hulkenberg. Alpine endured a more difficult hour, Pierre Gasly managing 1m22.424s while rookie Franco Colapinto ended 20th with a 1m23.529s on the hard tyre.

Sprint qualifying begins at 20:30 local time.
Qualcomm announced the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 flagship SoC in September and followed it up with a non-Elite version two days ago. The OnePlus 15R, launching on December 17, will be the first smartphone in international markets to have the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 under the hood. Qualcomm confirmed that Motorola will announce a smartphone with this chip soon, but there's no word from the Lenovo-owned brand about it yet. However, reliable leakster Evan Blass has revealed that an upcoming Motorola smartphone codenamed "Urus" will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5.

Blass revealed that Urus is a "non-foldable flagship" and will likely be branded as the Edge 70 Ultra. If you are wondering about a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5-powered Motorola phone, it could be the Razr 70 Ultra.

Motorola Edge 70

Right now, Motorola's Edge 70 series includes only one smartphone: the Edge 70, unveiled last month. Its key specs include the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 SoC, a 6.7" 120Hz 1,220p display, and a 4,800 mAh battery. The smartphone features three 50MP cameras - one on the front and two on the rear.

Motorola Edge 70 5G

These are the best offers from our affiliate partners. We may get a commission from qualifying sales. 512GB 12GB RAM  527.34  695.00 Show all prices

You can read our Motorola Edge 70 review to learn more about it. We also have a video review attached below.

Source
These are the best offers from our affiliate partners. We may get a commission from qualifying sales.
OnePlus has shared more details about the upcoming Ace 6T, ahead of its China launch on December 3. It is confirmed to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 SoC.

As for backup, the OnePlus Ace 6T will pack a massive 8,300mAh battery and offer 100W fast charging support, the company confirmed on Weibo.

Meanwhile, the phone has also been listed on China Telecoms database, which reveals some more specs. As per the listing, the Ace 6T will sport a 6.83-inch AMOLED display with a 2800 x 1272-pixel resolution. OnePlus has already revealed that the phone will offer 165Hz.

The phone will pack a dual-rear camera setup with a 50MP main sensor paired with an 8MP ultrawide unit. On the front, it will get a 16MP selfie camera.

As per the listing, the OnePlus Ace 6T will be available with up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage.

Source 1  Source 2
Guam Community College on Tuesday marked an important step forward in culinary education with the official ribbon-cutting of its newly renovated and expanded Culinary Arts & Baking Center, a project worth more than $2.7 million.

The renovated center was previously referred to as the Culinary Arts Kitchen/Classroom and Multipurpose Auditorium, and was redesigned as a state-of-the-art, fully-equipped culinary kitchen and classroom.

The new space supports the growing student interest in GCCs Culinary Arts, Food Service Management, and Baking postsecondary programs.

Every project here at the College is a meal being prepared. From discussion on what is to be served, identifying the ingredients to going out shopping and in this sense finding the funding, to meal preparation, cooking and then the final presentation. You all have been a part of our expanded culinary and baking program. Thank you, GCC President Mary A. Y. Okada said in a statement.

Renovations included widening the instructional spaces, updating professional kitchen equipment, enhancing safety features, and improving overall kitchen hygiene and ventilation.

The new building addition incorporates a mechanical system with Upper-Room Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation and non-ozone bipolar ionization technology, reducing airborne illness exposure.

Okada also acknowledged the Colleges superstar chef instructorsChefs Kennylyn Miranda, Paul Kerner, Bertrand Haurillon and the GCC ProStart chef instructors who support GCCs secondary programs.

Thank you for continuing to train the next generation of chefs for our islands, she added. Team GCC has also stepped up to the plate in many ways, leading the way in construction and renovation throughout this campus.

Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero said when one drives into the GCC campus, they see progress, excellence, and quality.

I see many advances in all aspects of our sectors in life. I also know that food is a bond for friendship. Food has caused wars to not happen. Food has caused enemies to be friends. Food has caused economies to grow. So really this is not just about a ribbon cutting for a facility it is about a ribbon cutting that is so essential to continuing our lives here on Guam, the governor added.

The renovation project was funded through the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund and the Governors Education Stabilization Funds.
Nearly 300 farmers and agricultural researchers, experts, and service agencies convened from Oct. 29 to 31 for a conference that tackled growing Guams agritourism industry, current challenges and opportunities for agriculture on the island, and how Guams restaurants can adopt a local-first culinary model.

At the 2025 Guam Farmer Focus Conference hosted by University of Guam Land Grant, attendees heard from a number of visiting experts from UOGs sister schools in Taiwan, which is considered a global leader in agricultural innovation and development.

On the final day, participants took a field trip to the UOG Yigo Research and Education Center for a first-hand look at the latest horticulture and climate-smart farming research happening at UOG.

The 55 field trip participants also visited the Valley of the Latte Adventure Park in Talofofo to observe an active agritourism business in action.

Industry connections

Conference goers expressed how valuable it was to have direct access to the agencies offering federal assistance, to the local extension experts and research faculty at UOG, and to other farmers navigating similar challenges, UOG said in a media release.

Commercial farmer Chris Salas of Salas Organics said he was inspired to attend after having secured several grants for his farm from connections made at last years conference. He said another big benefit of the conference was the on-the-spot advice.

I wanted to learn about problems with pests and techniques and methodologies from the [UOG faculty and researchers]. I really feel like Im going to be able to connect with the new plant pathologist, the new entomologist, he said, referring to several new UOG Land Grant faculty members.

The entrepreneurs behind a new high-tech, low-labor shipping containerbased farm operation in Guam, Sunny Grow Corp., attended the conference for similar reasons.

The companys vice president, Yuan Yi, said the conference helped her build critical connections as their team works to expand their hydroponics operation.

Were not local, so we dont really know which departments we can go to for support. If we want to [expand], we need government and the [university] supporting us. If we have a vegetable not growing that well, the professors will know better. Now we know some people here, she said.

Kuan-Ju Chen, an agricultural economist at UOG, director of UOG Land Grants Farmer Focus program, and chair of the conference, underscored the importance of supporting the regions diverse farming community.

We have a big proportion of immigrant farmers and farm workers. Without them, we cannot increase our ag production. So we really want to pay attention to their needs and how we can help each other, he said.

Chen also noted that innovations like Sunny Grows container-based farming model reflect how the next generation of growers may evolve and expand agriculture in Guam.

By moving production into controlled environments using solar power, he said, farmers can better protect crops from storms, pests, and other challenges that threaten traditional open-field farms.

The conference offered 50 breakout sessions, featuring speakers from UOG, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Tennessee State University, Washington State University, and Northern Marianas Collegeall Land Grant universities whose mission is to bring practical, informal education to the public to improve the quality of life.

For those who missed the conference, the three main panel discussions are available to watch on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@uogcnas5255.




Haiti - FLASH : Sunrise Airways passenger plane hit by multiple bullets





Sunrise Airways informs the public that following the incident on November 23, 2025 ( https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-46274-haiti-flash-all-sunrise-airways-flights-to-and-from-port-au-prince-suspended.html ), in which an Embraer 120 aircraft, operating for Sunrise, en route from Les Cayes, flight 033, was targeted and struck by several bullets while approaching Toussaint Louverture International Airport, the airline has suspended all flight operations to and from Port-au-Prince until further notice due to the high risk to passengers and crew.



The airline confirms that no passengers, crew members, or individuals on the ground were injured during this incident.



Three independent reports from three different sources have formally confirmed the nature and severity of the incident.



This event constitutes a serious incident according to international civil aviation safety standards, requiring the direct and immediate intervention of the competent authorities to ensure the safe resumption of operations to and from Port-au-Prince Airport.



The State's responsibility, according to international standards, is engaged in accordance with international civil aviation regulations, specifically Annex 17 of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Annex 19 (Safety Management), and the Chicago Convention (Articles 44, 54, and 55).



The State has the primary responsibility to ensure : the protection of aircraft , the safety of passengers and crew , the integrity of air navigation services , and the security of airports as well as approach and departure paths.



Furthermore, under ICAO Annex 13, any serious incident, including aircraft struck by gunfire, must be formally investigated by the State.



Sunrise Airways respectfully but firmly requests the following from the competent authorities :



- The immediate and sustained implementation of security measures around the perimeter of Port-au-Prince airport and along approach and departure corridors.



- Official investigations for every incident involving projectiles, in accordance with ICAO protocols.



- Close collaboration with airlines to assess risks and implement appropriate protection strategies.



- The restoration of required safety standards to guarantee safe and compliant international civil aviation.



Sunrise Airways reiterates its commitment to Haitian communities by maintaining the country's connection with the region and the rest of the world.



Air transport is a vital lifeline, essential for the economy, medical evacuations, humanitarian operations, and the mobility of families, students, and professionals.



The company calls on the authorities to take full responsibility by thoroughly investigating the November 23 incident and implementing the necessary measures to ensure the safety of aircraft, equipment, crews, and passengers.



Sunrise Airways remains available to collaborate with all national and international parties committed to restoring safe air operations in Haiti.



HL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - FLASH : Sectoral Table on the Gang Supression Force





On Thursday, November 27, 2025, at the Karibe Hotel, Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aime participated in the 5th edition of the Sectoral Roundtable on Security, organized by the Center for Analysis and Research in Human Rights (CARDH).



This Sectoral Roundtable, focused on the transformation of the Multinational Security Support Mission (MMSS) into a Gang Supression Force (GSF) in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 2793 adopted on September 30, 2025 (https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-45891-haiti-flash-the-security-council-has-voted-for-the-new-gang-repression-force.html), brought together representatives from the Organization of American States (OAS), the UN, judicial authorities, the Haitian National Police (PNH), and the Armed Forces of Haiti (FAdH) and civil society.



Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aime emphasized that the establishment of the FRG (Global Resistance Force) represents a sign of hope for the population, opening a new phase in the fight against crime and the reconquest of the territory. He announced that the "first additional component of the GSF should be on the ground by mid-December (without specifying a date)." He expressed his hope that by April 1st, 2026, Haiti will have additional troops and equipment capable of increasing its operational capabilities, noting that a meeting is scheduled for mid-December in New York with countries that have offered to contribute to the GSF.



The Prime Minister also stressed the need for a strengthened national unity, the only thing capable of supporting the security forces, fighting impunity, and restoring the authority of the State.



Furthermore, it is worth recalling that the members of the Group of Francophone Ambassadors, during a special session in New York on November 20, 2025, announced a series of commitments aimed at accelerating the deployment of the GSF. "The highlight of the meeting was the announcement, by several delegations, of concrete commitments commensurate with the urgency of the situation and the remaining needs to be met. The International Organisation of the Francophonie (OIF) welcomes the announcement by Chad and Burundi of the provision of four battalions, as well as the exemplary mobilization of France, Benin, Djibouti, and Equatorial Guinea, which demonstrated their commitment through pledges of various contributions : technical, financial, logistical, or in terms of military personnel."



HL/ TB/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - Taiwan : The commune of La Victoire is modernizing





Emmanuel Vertilaire, Presidential Transitional Advisor, accompanied by Hu Cheng Hao, Ambassador of Taiwan (Republic of China) to Haiti, made an official visit to the North for the patron saint's day celebration in La Victoire (Vertilaire's hometown) in the Saint-Raphael district. This visit is part of the ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation between Haiti and Taiwan.



After attending a solemn mass, he embarked on a tour focused on security, local development, and the improvement of public infrastructure. Vertilaire visited the La Victoire police station and then the town hall, where he met with local officials, particularly regarding the need for drinking water.



During his visit, Advisor Vertilaire announced that the town will soon be transformed into a major development site. Four projects, already funded, will be launched:



- The construction of a modern administrative complex;



- The construction of a public market;



- The redevelopment of the public square;



- The paving of streets.



He added that three other projects are already under consideration :



1. The construction of road sections linking Pignon/La Victoire/Mombin Crochu to Ouanaminthe;



2. The construction of the road linking La Victoire to Bohoc;



3. The construction of the La Victoire National School.



Furthermore, Vertilaire reported that steps are being taken with the National Education Fund (FNE) for the construction and rehabilitation of schools in the municipality. He was pleased that the initial steps have already been taken to begin these essential projects.



150 million gourdes have already been allocated for the first projects, ushering in a new era of modernization for the commune.



IH/ iciHaiti


















Contents Cherry gives up German production and wants to sell core division Made in China

Partial sale

Sales slump

The deficit at Cherry is adding up. From January 2025 to the end of September, the company made a net loss of almost 20.4 million euros, with a turnover of 70.7 million euros. Cherry now has more debt than equity (equity deficit), which recently led to an extraordinary general meeting.

Continue after ad

Made in China

Chief Operating Officer (COO) Udo Streller announced there that the switch production in Auerbach has now been completely discontinued. Instead, Cherry has outsourced production to "established partners in China and Slovakia".

The patent for the Cherry MX design finally expired in 2014. Since then, more and more Chinese companies have been producing switches that are also of comparable quality to Cherry's. Alternatives include JWK, Gateron, SP Star, Kailh, KTT, Outemu, and Tecsee. Switches from China were among the first to be lubricated with grease or oil from the factory. They are also experimenting with materials. Cherry is lagging behind its Far Eastern competitors in so-called Hall effect switches with magnetic fields.

There are now countless switch variants. Providers like Razer and Logitech also have their self-marketed types produced by Chinese manufacturers, such as Kailh.

Auerbach will henceforth function as a "cost-effective development, logistics, and service hub" for Cherry. Contracts with an external logistics partner expire at the end of the year.

There are now countless keyboard switches from various manufacturers, mostly in colorful housings. (Image: Mark Mantel/ heise medien)

Partial sale

Continue after ad

Restructuring, loans, and capital injections from investors are not enough to keep Cherry afloat. The manufacturer therefore wants to sell either the peripherals division or the Digital Health & Solutions division to use the proceeds to boost the remaining division.

The peripherals business includes all keyboards and mice, including gaming and office models. Switches are separate from this and are part of the Components division. Digital Health & Solutions includes card readers, PIN pads, and telematics-compliant applications such as the TI Messenger.

CFO Jurjen Jongma said at the general meeting: "Due to the group's low market capitalization and the current share price of Cherry below one euro, it is currently neither possible nor advisable to strengthen the group's equity in any way other than through strategic mergers & acquisitions options."

Cherry has already sold the hygiene peripheral device division "Active Key" for 12.5 million plus an option for an additional 8.5 million euros upon achievement of financial targets. Active Key included, for example, washable keyboards.

Sales slump

According to its statements, Cherry benefited from high demand during the coronavirus pandemic, which has since subsided. In 2021, Cherry's turnover was still 168.5 million euros. In 2022, annual sales of gaming products halved to 41.2 million euros. In 2023, it recovered, but the Digital Health & Solutions division slipped by a good 30 percent to 23 million euros. Components turnover halved to 10.9 million euros.

In 2025 (until the end of September), gaming and office peripherals have so far generated 50.3 million euros in sales, Digital Health & Solutions 16.5 million, and components 3.9 million. In healthcare, Cherry is facing a shift: Around 90,000 medical supply providers, such as physiotherapists, will only be connected to the telematics infrastructure on October 1 2027, instead of January 1 2026.

Empfohlener redaktioneller Inhalt Mit Ihrer Zustimmung wird hier ein externer Preisvergleich (heise Preisvergleich) geladen. Preisvergleiche immer laden Preisvergleich jetzt laden

(mma)

Don't miss any news  follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn or Mastodon. This article was originally published in German. It was translated with technical assistance and editorially reviewed before publication.
The European Union is backing away from its efforts to combat child abuse online with the use of chat control. A draft presented by the Council of the European Union draft proposal for further negotiations no longer provides for the highly controversial scanning of devices of Messenger and cloud service users. The outcome of the negotiations had already leaked beforehand. Security experts also view the voluntary measures critically. Now it has been officially confirmed.

Continue after ad

After months of wrangling, the Danish Council Presidency had to abandon its plans in November to force messenger services like WhatsApp, Signal, or Threema to automatically scan private communications. Civil rights activists and data protectionists protested against this, fearing the de facto end of end-to-end encryption and sensing a backdoor for further surveillance. Messenger services like Signal even announced their withdrawal from the EU if the law had passed.

What the EU plans instead

The now agreed position, on the other hand, focuses on risk assessments for online services, voluntary protective measures by providers, and a new EU agency. The transitional regulation, limited until April 2026, which allows voluntary scanning for abuse material, is to remain permanently in place.

With the agreement, the trilogue with the EU Parliament can begin, which had already adopted a significantly more restrictive position in November 2023. The MEPs had fundamentally rejected mandatory measures and want to exclude encrypted communication entirely. Experience shows that trilogues can drag on for years, especially in controversial cases.

New EU agency planned

In the risk analysis, providers must check whether their services can be misused for the dissemination of abuse material or for contacting children. There are to be three categories for this: high, medium, and low risk. Providers in the highest category could be obliged to participate in the development of risk mitigation technologies. In principle, providers are to provide reporting functions for users and control options for shared content and introduce default privacy settings for children, as some providers already have.

Continue after ad

National authorities are to be empowered to oblige companies to remove and block content. And for search engines, it should be possible to remove objectionable entries from the results. This is to be supported by a new EU agency. This agency will process reports from providers, maintain databases, and support national authorities. At the same time, it would be the interface to Europol and national law enforcement agencies. The draft also provides that companies should help victims remove material. The EU agency is to support this.

(mki)

Don't miss any news  follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn or Mastodon. This article was originally published in German. It was translated with technical assistance and editorially reviewed before publication.
The decision was made on Friday after a proposal by the honours committee. According to government regulations, honorary titles can be revoked if the recipient is sentenced to more than one year in prison. Baltzar received a prison sentence of one year and ten months from the Helsinki Court of Appeal in spring 2024 for two counts of sexual abuse.

President Alexander Stubb has revoked the honorary title of Cultural Counsellor from author Veijo Baltzar , following his conviction for sexual offences. This marks the first known case in modern Finnish history where a presidentially granted title has been officially withdrawn.

President Tarja Halonen granted the title to Baltzar in 2011. It is among the highest honours awarded to individuals in Finland for contributions to culture. Since 2000, the Cultural Counsellor title has been granted 17 times.

According to the Court of Appeal, Baltzar used his position to pressure victims into sexual acts, abusing their dependence on him. The court found that he manipulated young women in his theatre group, some of them high school students, and lured them to live in his home under false pretences.

The decision to strip Baltzar of his title came as President Stubb awarded 66 new honorary titles. Among them were industrial counsellor titles for Valio CEO Annikka Hurme and OP Financial Group President Timo Ritakallio.

The option to revoke honorary titles remains discretionary. In this case, the government cited the nature of the crimes and the length of the prison sentence as grounds for the decision.

HT
A SCHOOL in Caversham welcomed the Prime Minister to its breakfast club as the government announced it would roll out

500 more across the country.

Pupils at St Annes spent the morning on Thursday last week with Sir Keir Starmer as well as Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson and Matt Rodda, the MP for Reading Central.

The primary school, in Washington Road, is one of 750 selected to participate in a pilot of the programme starting in April after applying for its early adopter scheme.

Executive headteacher Bridget Tobin said there are currently

45 pupils using the club at the school and that they had seen improvements in concentration and confidence as a result. She said: The visit gave us the chance to show how much our breakfast club benefits the children and their families.

The pupils enjoyed sharing their morning routine and talked confidently about what the breakfast club means to them.

For many families, having a reliable and welcoming place for their children in the morning takes away a lot of pressure and helps them begin the day settled and focused.

The visit came as the Labour government announced it had opened applications for the next wave of its Best Start free breakfast club.

From Thursday last week, schools where two in five pupils were eligible for free school meals would be able to apply for funding to open free breakfast clubs from April 2026.

It said 40 per cent of pupils who are eligible for free meals would benefit from the rollout, which would cost the Government a further 80m.

Under the programme, the government provides 25 for staffing per day and 1 per child.

The Department for Education said the scheme would save parents time and money, saving up to 95 hours in childcare and 450 per year.

Sir Keir said the programme was targeting schools in communities feeing the tightest squeeze in cost of living. He said: Free breakfast clubs are already a lifeline for parents, and now were going further to deliver on that promise  beginning the national rollout.

Not only that, but were prioritising those communities feeling the sharpest squeeze, tackling both the cost of living and child poverty head-on. This isnt just about saving parents money and time, its about investing in the next generation to give them the best start in life.

Mr Rodda said: The children taking part are getting a great start to their school day and were settling down and getting ready to learn after having their breakfast at the club.

Parents also find it easier to get off to work once they have dropped their children at the club.

St Martins Primary School, also in Caversham, is another early adopter of the scheme.
AN ELDERLY woman who injured herself after she slipped and fell in Crazies Hill had to wait almost three and a half hours for an ambulance.

She had been walking from a meeting of the Cockpole Green Womens Institute at the village hall on Wednesday last week when she fell in wet conditions and had to wait for help to arrive.

The woman, 88, fell and fractured her hip after falling hard on the tarmac in the main road through Crazies Hill and was partially in the road.

An ambulance was called at 5.02pm and triaged as category 3, deeming it as urgent but not immediately life-threatening.

Residents were informed the wait time could be up to six hours.

At 8pm, paramedics reassessed the incident and it was upgraded to a category 2 response for a potentially serious condition requiring more urgent assessment.

An ambulance did not arrive until 8.23pm.

She was placed on a stretcher before being taken to the Royal Berkshire Hospital in Reading where she has since received treatment.

A member of the village Womens Institute praised the communitys effort to care for her in that time after more than a dozen cars stopped to offer assistance and keep her warm.

Villagers provided the woman with a horse blanket and she was helped on to a mat taken from the boot of somebodys car and given a Russian-style fur hat and gloves as temperatures dropped below 6C.

Villagers came back with hot-water bottles, cushions, extension cables for hairdryers and a heat lamp to make her comfortable.

The member, who does not wish to be named, said: It was amazing how many people stopped. So many cars stopped. It could have been more than 14.

We were all shocked. Residents up at Cayton Park were just amazing. Even a doctor appeared and stayed with her all the time with a baby because she was on maternity leave.

We were told not to move her so we didnt. There were four of five people from the [Wargrave] Womens Institute there so it was totally amazing.

I went to a neighbour and got a hat but the Russian one was far warmer and we got hot-water bottles to put underneath her and made sure she had my gloves on.

I feel very proud to live in this village. Its very caring with a capital C.

The villager said she felt very cross at the ambulance wait time. She said: Between 6pm and 6.30pm we were told it was on its way.

We [gave them] the postcode to the hall but somehow they wanted the postcode to the school and we didnt have it.

There had been some cock-up. They came just before 8.30pm and kept saying theyre coming, theyre coming.

Another member of the Womens Institute, who was at the scene, said: Eventually, after numerous calls to the ambulance service some very caring ambulance men arrived over three hours after the initial 999 call.

They gently excavated their way through all the blankets [and supplies] and conveyed her to the waiting ambulance.

Everyone concerned was appalled that an 88-year-old lady was left in the road in freezing conditions. She fell hard on the tarmac.

One of our ladies carefully put a car mat under her. [It was] an incredibly cold evening. There were so many Good Samaritans in Crazies Hill. As the temperature dropped alarmingly, she was made cosier than those of us who were on our feet.

A spokesman for South Central Ambulance Service said: We are sorry the patient had to wait in discomfort before and ambulance could arrive. The initial 999 call was received at 5.02pm and triaged as a category 3 call.

At the time, there was high demand in the local area and a need to clinically prioritise other patients. The call was reassessed at 8pm and upgraded to a category 2 with an ambulance arriving at 8.23pm.
PLANS to install a 5G telecoms mast on a recreation ground in Henley have been approved after all.

The planning inspectorate upheld an appeal by Telent Technology Services, on behalf of EE, to allow the 20m monopole to be sited in a corner of Makins, off Greys Road.

Inspector K Reeves accepted that while the appearance of the mast would cause unacceptable harm to its surroundings, this was outweighed by the benefits.

The aim of the installation is to provide 5G mobile networks and improve high-speed wireless connectivity via six antennae, two dishes and equipment cabinets.

EE said the mast was needed to address a gap in coverage and network capacity and that its existing one on St Marys Church could not support the new equipment.

South Oxfordshire District Council, the planning authority, turned down the plans in February saying the mast would be visually intrusive.

The inspector agreed but said there was not a more suitable alternative site in the area.

They said: The siting and appearance of the proposed mast would give rise to unacceptable harm to the character and visual quality of the area.

Nonetheless, in light of the absence of any more suitable alternative site within the required coverage zone, this harm is outweighed by the significant social and economic benefits associated with enhanced telecommunications provision.

The inspector said that while other locations, such as Townlands Memorial Hospital, had been explored, these were ruled out for clear and reasonable planning or technical reasons.

Makins recreation ground is owned by Henley Town Council, which objected to the plans, but under permitted development rights, telecom operators have extensive authority to install certain types of equipment.

Residents raised concerns about the masts impact on surrounding properties and the recreation ground and raised issues of potential noise, health, wildlife impacts and property values. During consultation in January, more than 50 objections were received.

Charlotte Wolfe, of Gainsborough Hill, has previously spoken out against the plans and said that she was beyond disappointed by the decision.

She said: I think its a tragedy that the inspector states that the damage will be unacceptable yet gives permission anyway.

They say theyre satisfied with EEs claim that the fire station is unsuitable but nowhere in EEs appeal have they proved repairs cannot be done to the tower.

Profit is being prized over people and the environment. My biggest fear is that by, allowing this development, in spite of the covenant that protects the rec, the doors will open in years to come for further building.

Ms Wolfe, an English tutor, is part of a group of residents who have been trying to get the space registered as a town green to protect it from development.

She said she was hoping to take the planning inspectorates decision to the High Court, adding: We need our green lungs and recreation spaces.

Town councillor David Eggleton, who chairs the Gainsborough Residents Association, said: We have spent 300,000 on a skate park, thousands on an exercise facility and the reason its up there is because of the views.

It has panoramic views of Henley that are unobstructed and now it will get a monstrosity of a tower.

A spokeswoman for Henley Town Council said that it was disappointed that the appeal has been allowed following significant concerns raised by residents.

She added: Our role now is to ensure that residents concerns continue to be heard and that any installation is carried out with the least possible impact on the surrounding area.

l What do you think? Write to: Letters, Henley Standard, Caxton House, 1 Station Road, Henley or email

letters@henleystandard

.co.uk
A FRIEND of murdered schoolboy Olly Stephens has urged parents to normalise uncomfortable conversations with their children.

Demi Urquhart spoke about the reality of being a teenager in todays world and the online pressures young people face, in front of a group of residents.

The 18-year-old attended Emmer Green Primary School with Olly, who was 13 when he was fatally stabbed in January 2021.

The murder took place in Bugs Bottom, an area of open parkland near to Ollys home. He had been lured to the field by a 13-year-old girl, where he was then ambushed by two boys aged 13 and 14. The youngest then stabbed Olly twice.

Miss Urquhart spoke at the event organised by Caversham and District Residents Association held at St Barnabass Church on Wednesday last week.

Ollys mother, Amanda Stephens, talked about the launch of a new charitable trust set up in her sons name and warned against the harm that unrestricted access to social media can have on children.

Demi said she wanted to raise awareness about the elements of social media that she believed many children were too scared to talk to their parents about, including violent videos or being pressured into sending nude pictures.

She recalled how the way she consumed social media content shifted quickly from watching slime videos when in primary school to clips of other children being patterned, (humiliated), when she was in secondary school.

By year 7, my feed was filled with clips of people being patterned like humiliated Demi said. Not only are violent videos spread so freely, but they begin to feel normal.

I feel like when Olly died, the reality of online harm became impossible to ignore. It wasnt something on a screen anymore; it was real. And it made me realise how dangerous online culture can be.

I was only in Year 7 when I started seeing harmful things online, so I can only imagine how much younger the people facing it are now.

Demi added that social media was also promoting harmful beauty standards for young teenagers.

She said: It plants unrealistic expectations into young peoples minds, which can grow into eating disorders and suicidal thoughts.

And when someone feels that way, the algorithm on the Internet makes it frighteningly easy to find harmful content on how to stop eating and how to hurt yourself.

Demi said she had seen an increase of violence in real life because of rumours started online.

I think social media can affect boys and girls in different ways. For boys, it often pushes them towards the violent side. It glorifies drugs, gangs and aggression as something to be proud of.

It creates this idea that if they dont live up to those standards, then they are soft or weak, which can drag them into really dangerous situations.

I think this idea has recently started to be more pushed onto girls as well. I see a lot more often, girls having fights with other girls, and I feel like a lot of the time this is because of social media.

Demi also raised concerns about the pressures on young girls to send naked pictures of themselves to others online.

Online, its made to seem like thats the only way to be seen as desirable. She said.

And I think this, mixed with boys being exposed to toxic masculinity, makes it a lot easier for them to pressure girls into sending photos without any real concern for the impact it has.

I feel like its a topic thats not spoken about enough because so many girls feel ashamed and are left carrying the blame of boys who push and beg for these pictures, often face no consequences.

Demi said that her advice to parents was to hold off giving their children a phone for as long as possible, but that, if that point had passed, to normalise uncomfortable conversations.

She said: Parents need to understand that children can be groomed into situations like this.

Anger or shame will only push them further away, and instead they need to show support and listen and understand and help their child find a way out.

I can only imagine how uncomfortable it would be to tell your mum that you sent a naked photo.

But this is such a real issue now, and I feel like if parents react with judgment or punishment, their child will only shut down.

Whats needed is reassurance, honesty and support and making it clear that mistakes dont define them and that they can always come to their parents with it.

Since Ollys death, his mother, Amanda and father, Stuart have joined the Bereaved Families for Online Safety initiative, supported by the NSPCC, to campaign for a safer internet for children.

They are one of 11 bereaved families who all claim social media played a part in their childrens deaths, from the promotion of suicidal content to dangerous online challenges.

Recalling the day of her sons murder, Mrs Stephens said: January 3, 2021 was a cold, bright, sunny January day. It was just after Christmas.

Covid-19 restrictions were in force. We were preparing to return to work on Monday after the Christmas break.

That afternoon was full of the sound of sirens. The field was packed full of dog walkers and young families whod been out enjoying some fresh air.

People of all ages stood close to the place where Olly lay. A lady was carrying out CPR on Olly, it was clear to see that he had passed.

We had raced over to where he lay after we were alerted to what had happened by a loud banging on the front door. A young man shouted, Ollies been stabbed!

This year Mr and Mrs Stephens have launched Ollys Work, a charity set up in their sons name which aims to educate about online safety and teach young people about the choices and consequences of knife crime.

Mrs Stephens said that she wanted to raise awareness of the serious crime, grooming, exploitation, gangland culture and violence children are exposed to online.

Along with the Bereaved Families for Online Safety, the Stephens were instrumental in pushing for the Online Safety Act, which received royal assent on October 26, 2023.

The bill means that Ofcom can now take action on the tech companies that are not adequately protecting children.

However, Mrs Stephens said that the group is still fighting for safety by design and the removal of content before children even see it.

Mrs Stephens said: Harmful content is shown online and young children are not protected from seeing it.

Violent, horrendous, harmful images are shown to children, and they begin to think that those images are normal.

The algorithms are set to feed more and more similar images and content. You cannot escape from the harm you are seeing. They are bombarded.

Olly had met the boys who murdered him a handful of times in real life, and they had first met through online group chats.

The boys had talked about their plan to attack Olly on Snapchat and had met the girl they eventually recruited to set him up online.

Mrs Stephens said: Ollies murder was planned, calculated and organised online. Many young people were aware of what was going on, but no one intervened. No one said stop. No one sought help from a trusted adult.

Videos of the boys showing off knives were found on their mobile phones and many of the voice notes recovered by the Police discussed knives.

Two hours after Olly died, the older boy admitted his role in a text message sent to another teenager.

The younger boy, who stabbed Olly, described it as the biggest mistake of my life in another text message, and said it was done out of pure anger

Over 90 per cent of the evidence gathered and presented at trial was taken from mobile phone data.

Mrs Stephens recalled that her son had enjoyed attending Emmer Green Primary School but had struggled when he started secondary school and found the transition extremely difficult.

Ollie was diagnosed as autistic shortly before his murder, and Mrs Stephens explained that this, together with the pressures of Covid-19 lockdowns and his behaviour at school, led him to become excluded.

He was popular in year 6, however, he started to worry more. She said: He felt a bit different. He had low self-esteem.

Like many parents, we gave Ollie a smartphone in Year 6. He had wanted to walk to school so a phone would ensure he was safe when travelling to and from school.

We now realise that a smartphone did not make Ollie safe but exposed him to harm.

Through his mobile phone, Olly was criminally exploited by a gang.

Mrs Stephens said: As a 12-year-old boy, he was tasked to travel to London by train to collect a package.

When he arrived, an adult took his money and punched him in the face. It was a setup. He now owed the gang.

Next, his precious bike was stolen. He was trapped. They threatened him with a photo of our front door. The message was clear. We know where you live.

We knew something was wrong and troubling Olly. But Olly wanted to protect us, his parents. Ollie did not talk to us about what was happening. He didnt see the danger. I dont think he took it seriously.

In the weeks before he was killed, Olly had seen a video posted on Snapchat of a young boy being patterned and had alerted the boys older brother.

When two boys in the same Snapchat group realised what Olly had done, they accused him of snitching and began to plot the attack.

Mrs Stephens said: So-called normal, real-world childhood playground arguments in the online world can quickly escalate out of control and lead to murder.

So many families suffered, and lives were destroyed that afternoon. And for what? An online argument. Now Ollys work is his legacy.

Mrs Stephen said she regretted giving Olly a smartphone in Year 6 of primary school but that she did accept that mobile phones and the online world were a big part of young peoples lives.

She said Ollys Work aims to provide parents with some help around starting difficult conversations and supports the campaign to get smartphones banned in schools.

It is also lobbying the big tech firms to remove harmful content from their platform.

The charity also promotes the work of Fearless, which is part of Crime Stoppers, and young people can use to pass on information about crime 100 per cent anonymously.

For more information: www.readingamnesty.art/ollyswork/

ENDS
For book lovers, the news that Cambridge University has acquired a previously sealed personal archive of Amy Levy, a Victorian Jewish novelist and poet who won praise from literary notables of her era, is a cause for celebration.

Levy's 1888 novel Reuben Sachs is an exasperated, yet affectionate, look at English Jewish middle-class life. Levy, the daughter of a prosperous stockbroker, knew whereof she spoke. At the British Library in London, Levy rubbed elbows with Eleanor Marx, daughter of the author of Das Kapital.

In her own way, Levy, who died by suicide at the age of 27, was an anti-capit...
Navigating the complex world of veterans benefits can be overwhelming for seniors and their families. At Jewish Pavilion Senior Services and the Orlando Senior Help Desk, we understand the unique challenges veterans face as they age, and we are here to connect them with trusted resources that offer free, certified support in filing claims and accessing the benefits they have earned.

In Brevard County, the Veterans Services Offices provide no-cost assistance for veterans and their eligible surviving family members. These offices are staffed with accredited professionals who can help with the p...
(JNS)  A new survey by the Jerusalem Center for Security and Foreign Affairs (JCFA) finds overwhelming Israeli opposition to the establishment of a Palestinian state.

The poll, conducted Nov. 1617 by Dr. Menachem Lazar among 698 Jewish and Arab Israelis (3.7 percent), finds 70 percent of Israelis oppose creating a Palestinian state along the 1967 linesthe highest level recorded by the Center since the war began.

Among Jewish Israelis, opposition stands at 79 percent.

Only 8 percent of respondents support a Palestinian state unconditionally. Thirteen percent said they would consider it only...
(JNS)  Assault rifles and other equipment belonging to Hamas terrorists were discovered on Wednesday during reconstruction work at Kibbutz Beeri, more than two years after the Oct. 7, 2023, attack on the community.

Arms and communication devices belonging to Hamas terrorists were found in a kindergarten in Kibbutz Beeri. Police bomb squad officers neutralized the weapons safely and without incident, the Israel Police stated.

An investigation found the weapons included loaded and ready-to-fire Kalashnikov rifles, along with communication devices used by Hamas terrorists during the murdero...
Shalom Orlando has appointed Marni Mandell as the new CEO of the organization. While already busy engaging with local leaders and other stakeholders in the Jewish community, Mandell will formally begin her role as CEO in early January 2026.

Mandell previously spent 12 years leading Jewish nonprofit organizations in the U.S. and Israel, and for the last 15 years, she has founded and led technology startup companies in Tel Aviv. Mandell most recently joined with other Israeli entrepreneurs to co-found the Israeli Children's Fund  Atufim B'Ahava to support children who lost one or both parents d...
(JTA) - When Michael Smuss died last month at 99, an era of Jewish history came to a close.

Smuss was the last known resistance fighter during the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, when Jews rose up against their Nazi persecutors in one of the most dramatic episodes of the Holocaust.

Smuss was not the only prominent survivor to die in recent weeks. A number of survivors, several centenarians, have died in a wave that underscores the rapid disappearance of anyone alive with robust memories of the Holocaust.

Six months after the Claims Conference estimated that 220,800 Holocaust survivors remained alive,...
(JNS) - A painting, which depicts a Jewish woman and which the Nazis stole after annexing Austria, sold for $236.36 million-reportedly a record for Viennese decorative artist Gustav Klimt-at a Sotheby's auction on Tuesday.

Dated between 1914 and 1916, the oil painting is titled "Portrait of Elisabeth Lederer" and portrays the daughter of Klimt's "most important patrons," Serena and August Lederer, and captures "the social prominence and beauty of the sitter," according to Sotheby's.

The auction house described the work as having "lush ornament details, complex palette, dazzling brushwork and c...
Here is an amazing set of iconic and ironic events! Israel essentially defeats its Muslim enemies on seven military fronts after the unprovoked barbaric attacks of Oct. 7, 2023.

The Israeli Mossad obliterates 90 percent of Hezbollah leadership by distributing pagers to its upper echelon which simultaneously explode in their hands, killing and maiming thousands and humiliating the survivors.

The Israeli Air Force decimates Irans air defenses and missile launches allowing American B-2 bombers to invade Iranian airspace unhindered to deliver BGU-57 Massive Ordnance bunker buster bombs to its m...
Visiting the Collingwood art and street fair in September, my wife and I did not expect to find anti-Israel slogans stenciled into the sidewalks and an anti-Israel Defense Forces message chalked in front of the CWOOD sign in front of City Hall.

It felt unnerving and out of place that the pitch of standard slogans rallying against Israel would be underfoot on this sunny day in downtown Collingwood, which calls itself a progressive community in Ontario, Canada, with not one person seeming to be bothered enough to question the messages offensiveness.

I made my concerns clear to the town organi...
(JNS)  Israels greatest strength is not only its military resilience or technological success, but its insistence on building a democratic, lawful, moral society in a region where power often substitutes for principle and justice is too often replaced by vengeance.

From the first days of its founding, the State of Israel has insisted that Jewish sovereignty must rest on a different foundation  one anchored in due process, accountable government, ethical national defense and a justice system that binds leaders and citizens alike, Jews and non-Jews. This tradition is not merely philosophical;...
(JNS)  A strange thing happened in the middle of the night on Monday: the United Nations Security Council unanimously approved one of the most acrobatic, contradictory resolutions in its long history.

It envisions an International Stabilization Force marching into Gaza to rebuild civil order, control the borders, dismantle Hamass military infrastructure andalmost as an afterthoughtlay down a path toward a Palestinian state.

As always, the conditions are buried in diplomatic language. First, Hamas must complete the handover of the hostagesalive or dead. Only then, we are told, can the...
(JNS)  Ive often wondered what we can learn from the stories of ancient Jewish communities that have for years been besieged by cultural prejudice. How did they survive for centuries, in some cases, for millennia? What can we learn from their resilience?

And, most importantly, how did they maintain a sense of community in the face of antisemitism? What customs and traditions helped them build that strength in times of difficulty?

This November, one such community, the Beta Israel, will gather at the Armon Hanatziv Promenade above Jerusalem to celebrate its own historic festival: the pilgrima...
Chinese translator Yu Zemin receives Hungary's Cultural Connectivity Award

Xinhua) 13:25, November 28, 2025

BUDAPEST, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- Chinese literary translator and writer Yu Zemin, who has lived in Hungary for more than three decades, received the Geza Szocs Cultural Connectivity Award on Thursday evening at a gala ceremony hosted by the Friends of Connectivity Foundation in Budapest.

Yu, known for translating works by Hungary's two Nobel Prize-winning authors as well as the poetry of Geza Szocs, said the award was a recognition of cultural bridges built between China and Hungary.

"I consider Hungary my second home," Yu said in his acceptance remarks. He thanked Hungarian literature for allowing him to serve as "a voice of Hungarian literature in China," and paid tribute to Szocs, whom he met in the 1990s.

"This award encourages me to continue translating Hungarian works, and ensures that we always remember this remarkable man," he added.

The ceremony marked the first edition of the Connectivity Awards established by the Friends of Connectivity Foundation, which was founded in 2025 to promote mutually beneficial East-West cooperation across diplomacy, culture, and economic ties. Awards were presented in four categories: diplomacy, international connectivity, cultural connectivity, and competitiveness.

Speaking at the event, Minister for European Union Affairs Janos Boka said Hungary was committed to strengthening connectivity as a strategy for ensuring long-term competitiveness.

He noted that Hungary's open, export-driven economy depends on foreign investment and advanced technological cooperation.

"We seek partners, allies, friends and points of collaboration," Boka said, adding that Hungary believes in cooperation among sovereign nations based on mutual respect.

Boka said Europe's competitiveness had declined in recent decades and called for a "pragmatic, mutually beneficial relationship" with international partners.

Deputy Minister for EU Affairs Barna Pal Zsigmond, who presented the cultural award, highlighted the geopolitical relevance of dialogue and cooperation.

He said the EU faced significant challenges in a rapidly changing world and stressed the need for diplomacy, economic ties and cultural exchanges that support peace, stability and competitiveness.

Zsigmond praised the legacy of Geza Szocs, calling him a key figure in building historical and cultural connections between Hungary and Eastern countries.

Other awardees included former Hungarian Ambassador to France Gyorgy Karolyi in the diplomacy category, Cambodian lawmaker Suos Yara for international connectivity, and Tata Consultancy Services Hungary in the competitiveness category.

The gala also featured performances by Hungarian artists and brought together officials, diplomats, and cultural figures.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Assyria: the Root of the West

A 17th-century map of Mesopotamia, which housed the Assyrian empire -- and the beginnings of modern capitalism. Breuning Von Buchenbach Hans Jacob - 1612/Picryl. We think of ancient civilisations as operating very differently from the way our economy works today. Yet the Bronze Age Assyrians living in Mesopotamia, around 4,000 to 3,000 years ago, began the basis of modern capitalism, in a region spanning most of modern-day Iraq, eastern Syria and southeastern Turkey. The Assyrian empire was the root of what many scholars would now call "the West".

Cuneiform writing, the oldest in the world, records evidence of credit, loans and debits as "virtual money" and the rise of elite merchants holding monopolies on trade. They traded Afghanistan tin from the city of Kanesh (in modern Turkey) throughout their empire, working as multinational corporations do today.

The Assyrian business community also had the first businesswomen and female investors. Generous tax breaks were given to merchants who promoted good business. The famous Code of Hammurabi reads like the fine print of a business deal, stating rules for granting credit and imposing taxes and tariffs on trade.

Such claims loom large in Australian existential risk researcher Luke Kemp's highly provocative, page-turning new book Goliath's Curse, named after the biblical story (Book of Samuel 1, 17) of the Philistine warrior giant Goliath, killed by young David with his slingshot. Goliath states are ruled by violence or impending threat of it.

This book will reset everything you thought you knew about the rise and fall of ancient to modern civilisations (states) -- with seriously worrying implications for understanding our current world political landscape.

Kemp is a senior research associate at the Centre for the Study of Existential Risk at Cambridge University. His book gives a probing, well-researched account of how states evolved from Paleolithic times into the giant global goliaths of today.

To do this, he draws on new databases, one called MOROS, (Mortality of States), another named Seshat Global History Databank. The latter is the world's largest resource on global history (named after the Egyptian goddess of knowledge).

In the Guardian this week, Peter Lewis, director of research company Essential, used the book to contextualise new poll results showing "when it comes to Goliath-induced catastrophes, we are on high alert". For example, 67% of us are concerned about the development of self-aware AI, 62% about social upheaval through rising inequality, and 59% about the catastrophic impacts of climate change.

What threat do Goliath states pose?

Goliath states are centralised institutions that impose rules and extract resources from a population within a closed territory. All states in history, on average, last around 326 years, Kemp writes.

The Later Han Dynasty of China lasted only four years. The longest-lasting states, such as the Byzantine Empire of the Mediterranean, extended for a millennium -- and the Ghana Empire in Africa lasted 900 years.

The largest states that ever existed include the Roman Empire, the Khan's Mongol empire and the British Empire. The British Empire, which lasted nearly 400 years, was the largest that ever existed. In 1925, it covered 35 million square kilometres -- or around a quarter of the world's total land area.

The Western Roman Empire, which lasted almost 800 years, was around 4.4 million square km in 390 CE, Kemp writes. The Mongol empire under the Khans was the largest land-based contiguous empire, spanning around 24 million square km -- yet it was overstretched, with limited ability to control its conquered lands, so only lasted 88 years.

Goliath states are dominated by fear and violence, or the threat of it. They have existed since the ancient Egyptians, Kemp writes, and continue to play a major role in the current world political map.

Current Goliath states include most countries whose military plays a significant role in their trading or acquisition of resources: either directly (by military threat of invasion) or by implied means (such as the threat of nuclear war, or the use of military strength as a deterrent). The United States, Russia, China -- and even Australia and Norway -- are Goliath states by Kemp's definition.

The power struggles of all human history come from manipulation of four forms of power, he writes. These are decision-making, control through threats and violence, control of resources, and control of information.

Wealth inequality acts a prime driver of societal collapse. Elon Musk's recent trillion-dollar pay deal is a prime example of humanity reaching a new peak of inequality.

Rising inequality makes war more likely

Inequality within states is driven by what Kemp calls "Goliath Fuel", based on extraction of wealth and resources from the masses to the elite few. It requires three things.

First, lootable resources (such as grain, metals or domesticated animals). Second, a contained geographical area with well-defined barriers (land between seas, mountains, deserts and rivers). And third, a new or advanced kind of weapon (bronze swords, long bows, gunpowder, nuclear missiles).

Goliath Fuel makes Goliath states larger and more powerful, often with the accumulated power and wealth transferring down family lines, as with royal families or powerful dictatorships. (One example is North Korea, whose fuel in recent decades has been its transferable wealth to dictator family members built up from trade, particularly in weapons to Russia, and its formidable army with its nuclear arsenal.)

The definitions of territorial boundaries for states have changed radically with time. Ancient states were mostly closed off by natural land boundaries (mountains, seas, desert, rivers). As empires grew, lands were bounded by walls or natural territories. Today, with modern technologies, states are enclosed by laws, passports and advanced mass surveillance systems.

Kemp says that as inequalities rise, so does the likelihood of wars. Democracy is on the wane today: 5.7 billion people (71% of Earth's population) now live in an autocracy. About 42 currently democratic countries are becoming more autocratic (as measured by 60 variables, including fairness of elections, independence of the media, and equal access to the state's resources).

The 2025 V-Dem Democracy Report shows that the share of the world's population living in "autocratising" countries rose 31% within the past decade, going from 7% in 2004 to 38% in 2024. (It's produced by the V-Dem Institute, which produces the largest global dataset on democracy.)

Kemp points out how the US is rapidly becoming "more autocratic":

The democracy and public services we often take for granted as being the natural condition of states are an historical aberration. One that is slowly being undone as the world drifts back to the historical default of greater inequality, autocracy, and extraction of wealth and power by elites.

The V-Dem report identified the US as undergoing the "fastest evolving episode of autocratization [it] has been through in modern history". President Donald Trump, it reported, is "testing the limits of executive power" at an "unprecedented scale".

Collapse?

Twenty years ago, Jared Diamond's internationally bestselling book Collapse also discussed the decline of certain states.

It selected case studies of some ancient civilisations (or, states) to show how they collapsed due to environmental degradation, power struggles or colonial empires taking over by introducing diseases, or overpowering them with superior weapons.

Diamond identified two crucial choices that determined whether past societies failed or survived: long-term thinking, and reconsidering core values.

I asked Diamond via email about the probability of societal collapse happening soon. "I rate the chances of a global collapse within the next century as somewhere between 49% and 51%," he told me.

Kemp's book is at odds with some of the findings in Collapse, though some of these disagreements might be seen as different sides of the same coin. Diamond told me "much more information has accumulated" since his book was published in 2005. "Nevertheless, numerous archaeologists/anthropologists still cling to the belief that traditional societies before the arrival of the Europeans were stable and environmentally benign."

That belief, he says, is popular "even for Easter Island, despite its being the best documented and most complete pre-European decline: complete deforestation, and extinction of almost all native tree species".

Kemp argues Easter Island (Rapanui) societies were at their peak when Europeans arrived in the 1860s and began taking a large proportion of the population away as slaves, or infected them with debilitating diseases.

He attributes Rapa Nui's collapse to genocide, rather than Diamond's interpretation as ecocide.

Empires and collapse

Kemp shows that as Goliath states expanded by acquiring other states, they became empires.

The authoritarian impulse of their political rulers was often triggered in their neighbouring states as a way to keep pace in the "arms race". For example, during the Cold War between the US and Russia, other countries raced to acquire nuclear weapons at the same time. Today, there are nine states with nuclear arsenals and around 10,000 stockpiled nuclear weapons.

The modern "Silicon Goliath" is defined as the state where the lootable resources are not grains, metals or domestic animals, but data, fossil fuels and commodities. The walls containing the state are now monitored electronically, and the main weapons that can be monopolised are nuclear missiles and killer robots (including armed autonomous drones).

The Silicon Goliath feeds on data it obtains illegally or unethically (without permissions or paying fees to the creators). This, writes Kemp, means artificial intelligence programs and influence can be monetised as a modern lootable resource.

One of the book's most interesting observations is the archaeological evidence it provides that humans did not evolve a natural tendency for violence. Instead, violence is associated with the rise of increasingly unequal societies.

Violent interactions become more widespread as cities develop and expand. Archaeologists examined 3,539 skeletons found in the Early to Middle Bronze age in Mesopotamia and found a dramatic increase in violent traumas due to increasing urbanisation.

This book is unique in its tone and style. It presents facts wrapped in an engaging set of narratives. The futuristic predictions and discussions are solidly backed up by comparative data from the newly developed databases and extensive references to authoritative publications.

While the endgame message is grim, we all know what's coming -- though many chose to deny the facts. Like Frankenstein's monster, Goliath states are human-made creations, mostly out of individual control.

'Death Star' syndrome

Kemp describes our current world as entering the "Death Star" Syndrome. This is a reference to Star Wars' ultimate weapon, wielded by the Empire. It destroys planets -- yet can be destroyed by one special targeted attack to its weakest point.

While we appear to be growing increasingly robust, the Earth is becoming far more fragile and vulnerable to collapse than we think.

We humans can be incredibly intelligent and find solutions to most of the world's problems. But the act of implementing such solutions always comes down to politics.

Politics runs by a hierarchical power network, where in all cases there is some degree of inequality as to who gets what they want. The very wealthy can employ lobbyists to effect political change; the poor cannot.

And while we can vote for the parties we hope will effect change, often they sidestep the major issues we voted them in to address and run their own agendas. A prime example is taking place in the US, where Donald J. Trump was voted in recently mainly due to poor economic conditions.

In the last few weeks, the White House cancelled the SNAP food vouchers for 42 million US citizens who needed them, even after the Supreme Court ruled against the action.

A new hope?

The glimmer of hope at the end of the book comes from two factors.

To slay the Goliath state, we must use both knowledge and technology -- both of which have evolved enormously over the past two decades. Kemp touts them as our best hope, if used properly, for avoiding either an apocalyptic nuclear war or terminal environmental collapse.

It will require more of us to vote against the apocalypse, to trust and rely on expert knowledge (not politicians' opinions), and to work to expand and refine democracy as the principal way states around the world are governed.

Most importantly, we must work together to keep opposing domination by Goliath states -- which will, by their nature, always seek to control peaceful states.

Goliath's Curse is a must-read for anyone concerned with the current state of the world.
U.S. immigration agency to reexamine green card holders from 19 "countries of concern"

Xinhua) 13:28, November 28, 2025

WASHINGTON, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said Thursday that it will reexamine green card holders from 19 "countries of concern," including Afghanistan.

At the direction of U.S. President Donald Trump, "I have directed a full-scale, rigorous reexamination of every Green Card for every alien from every country of concern," USCIS Director Joseph Edlow said in a statement on social media.

The announcement comes a day after two National Guard soldiers were shot and critically wounded near the White House by a suspect identified as an Afghan national who entered the United States in 2021.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily!

Your notification has been saved.

There was a problem saving your notification.

{{description}}

Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items.
Marking a fresh chapter in its culinary journey, Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai announces the appointment of Heath Gordon as its new Executive Chef. Bringing over two decades of experience spanning Australia, the Middle East and Southeast Asia, Chef Heath takes charge of the Resort's entire dining portfolio, blending global influences with the vibrancy of Central Vietnam.

Born in Melbourne, Chef Heath began his career along the sun-drenched Gold Coast of Australia, where he acquired his culinary education and gained early experience across coastal kitchens. He then made the move to luxury hospitality, honing his skills at a five-star resort on Hamilton Island before joining a modern Australian restaurant in South Wales. This formative period, which included several collaborations with acclaimed chefs, solidified his passion for gastronomy.

Picking up momentum, his career took him next to the Middle East, where he launched a high-end grill house in Dubai and oversaw large-scale banqueting operations for the preopening of a luxury hotel in Abu Dhabi. In 2017, he arrived in Ho Chi Minh, stepping into his first role as Executive Chef at a reputed hotel - a rewarding tenure during which he established a prominent annual food and wine festival that attracted talent from the world over. After his departure from the property, a deep affection for Vietnam inspired him to stay on and consult locally, most notably advising on a restaurant that swiftly garnered Michelin and Tatler Best distinctions.

Now, as Executive Chef at Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Chef Heath supports a team of exceptional chefs in bringing their distinctive visions to life - with a renewed emphasis on fresh, local flavours.

Restaurants under his leadership include Cafe Nam Hai, serving wholesome fare in the day and opulent Indian specialities by night; La Sen, which fuses Vietnamese fare with French influences; and NAYUU, showcasing seasonally inspired omakase journeys. He also oversees in-villa dining as well as The Nam Hai Cooking Academy, an interactive kitchen where guests can explore Vietnamese cuisine through hands-on classes.

Combining globally honed credentials with a genuine passion for Vietnamese culinary traditions, Executive Chef Heath Gordon is poised to usher in a new season of destination dining at Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai.
Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan ushers in a new era with the appointment of Tim Churchmack as Resort Manager. Acclaimed for his dynamic, people-focused leadership, Churchmack is poised to lead the award-winning resort as it continues to redefine the pinnacle of luxury hospitality.

Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Churchmack has been part of Four Seasons family since 2010. His career began in special education, driven by a passion for making a positive impact in the lives of others. Drawn to Four Seasons company culture and its commitment to developing people, he began his career with Four Seasons Hotel Chicago following graduation. He excelled across all areas of hotel operations, rising to the role of Hotel Manager. His journey with the brand continued with leadership positions at The Ritz-Carlton Chicago (formerly a Four Seasons hotel), Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara, and Four Seasons Resort Nevis. Throughout, Churchmack has trailblazed with his collaborative, forward-thinking leadership style, blending creative and strategic insight with a drive to continually reimagine the guest experience.

Churchmack now takes the helm at one of the world's most celebrated and pioneering resorts. For more than 25 years, Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan has revolutionised luxury hospitality with its seamless blend of heritage and innovation. Set amidst Ubud's lush jungle and two UNESCO World Heritage-protected rivers, the John Heah-designed resort is an architectural marvel. A dramatic footbridge entrance and floating treetop lotus pond, high above the Ayung Valley, descends through verdant greenery and rice paddies to a serene riverside retreat of 42 private pool villas and 18 suites. Guests can immerse in Bali's rich culture through elevated treetop and riverside dining, a riverside culinary school, private temple tours, river rafting, and visits to UNESCO-listed rice fields. The newly reimagined Sacred River Spa offers transformative wellness experiences inspired by ancient Balinese philosophy and rituals. Highlights include the otherworldly Sacred Nap, where guests are rocked to sleep in suspended hammocks within the rice fields by Resident Wellness Mentor Ibu Heny Ferawati, a former Buddhist nun.

Having twice won the #1 World's Best Hotel award by Travel + Leisure magazine, the resort will continue to evolve under Churchmack's direction, offering guests new ways to engage with this extraordinary location.

For further information or to experience the award-winning offering at Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan, please contact the resort directly at +62 (361) 201 6000 or via Four Seasons Chat.
Over the past four years, Skift Aviation Forum has brought together the airline industry's top leaders and boldest thinkers for a day of in-depth conversation on the future of aviation.

This year, we're excited to welcome attendees and speakers to Fort Worth, Texas, on December 3 for our next edition of Skift Aviation Forum  our biggest and most ambitious yet. Experience a fast-paced day of dynamic discussions, blending Skift's editorial insights, research, and travel expertise with the authority of Airline Weekly - the globally influential business newsletter revered by airline executives and decision-makers worldwide.

This event is organized by skift
In hospitality, the guest journey starts long before they reach the room.

It's shaped by the first impression, the check-in moment, and the small surprises that make a stay memorable.

At the same time, travelers today, especially younger guests are looking for experiences they can share: the kind that becomes a photo, a story, or a TikTok moment.

So we asked ourselves a simple question: What if the key card could do more?

Our latest innovation is a city-themed wooden fridge magnet key card, designed in the hollow-out silhouette of the destinations most iconic historic architecture (in this case, the beloved landmark church).

Its a tiny piece of the city that guests can carry to the real landmark. Suddenly, checking in becomes part of the travel experience, not just an administrative step.

Why It Works?

1. A Built-In Story for Guests

Travelers can literally say: Im heading to the landmark to get a selfiewith my key card.

2. A Souvenir That Stays With Them

When the trip ends, the key card becomes a wooden fridge magnet, a small, meaningful reminder of your property long after checkout.

3. A Touch of Playfulness That Guests Appreciate

The design nods to the citys cultural heritage, while the pop-culture reference to Take Me to Church adds a lighthearted twist. Its subtle, memorable, and fun, exactly what travelers resonate with.

Hoteliers today are competing not just on amenities, but on emotional touchpoints. This product is our way of helping properties add joy, surprise, and shareability to an often-overlooked moment: the key handoff.

After all, when a guest smiles at check-in, the entire stay starts on a high note. Sometimes, quite literally.

ABOUT GCSTIMES

Since 2011, GCSTlMES has pioneered sustainable development, evolving from smart card R&D to sustainable material innovation. Today, we stand as a global platform for sustainable solutions.

Sustainability is our foundation. Through technological innovation and creative solutions, GCSTlMES delivers diverse services and tangible products, positioning ourselves as both manufacturers and innovators.

GCSTlMES believes technology should empower human progress and cultural preservation. By integrating sustainability into technology, we aim to make it "warm" and purposeful. Our products serve as cultural ambassadors, promoting local heritage worldwide.

Brand Portfolio: GCS, AUROkeys, Xenyra, and Glint Spot, offering sustainable smart cards, creative (custom-shaped) key cards sustainable supplies, cultural gifts, and bespoke design and related services.

Currently, GCSTlMES has five operational centers in China, US, UAE, France, and Australia, along with 14 subsidiaries and offices worldwide. Its services extend to over 140 countries and regions supporting more than 100,000 international hospitality group in achieving low-carbon and sustainable development goals.

GCS Times

MKT Team
Hong Kong  Langham Hospitality Group (LHG) has launched a trio of artificial intelligence (AI) agents to address changes in how people source information. The new toolkit, which complements the Groups existing channels, gives guests the flexibility to make enquiries either digitally or directly with hotel staff, who in turn gain broader access to training materials and commercial insights.

Personal and intuitive guest care, strong colleague development, and informed commercial decision-making have always been central to how we operate. These new tools extend that approach by allowing us to respond to the shift in how people access information, whether theyre guests planning a stay, frontline team members sharpening their skills, or marketing executives exploring emerging travel trends. Langham Hospitality Group CEO Bob van den Oord

The new AI agents are being phased in throughout the Groups hotel portfolio, which includes 31 properties across four continents and brands  The Langham Hotels and Resorts, Cordis Hotels and Resorts, Eaton Workshop, and YingnFlo. The agents include:

Experience Agent: A multilingual interface that enables guests to ask questions through text-based channels  including email, WhatsApp, WeChat and Instagram  while still having the option to speak directly with hotel staff at any time. The agent responds in over 50 languages and is designed to help guests access practical information quickly and conveniently. Over time, the agent will be able to recognise intent, suggest service options and direct enquiries to the right teams. Future capabilities also include voice conversations and an expanded role as an AI concierge that anticipates guests needs and helps them plan their stays, arrange services and receive timely updates before, during and after their journeys.

Knowledge Agent: A practical support tool that offers instant answers to employee questions, helping colleagues learn, troubleshoot and perform their roles with confidence. From housekeeping standards to brand signatures and operating procedures, the agent serves as an always-on reference that reduces time spent searching for information and that supports more consistent delivery across departments. As it advances, the agent will be able to walk teams through tasks step-by-step, highlight standards in real time, flag compliance gaps, and proactively provide guidance based on role, location or time of day  offering a personalised pathway to learning that ensures knowledge is not just retained, but continually strengthened.

Insight Agent: A real-time analytics tool that reviews booking patterns, demand signals and guest behaviour in aggregate to identify opportunities with greater precision. By surfacing actionable recommendations on timing, pricing and audiences, the agent helps commercial teams craft more relevant offers and launch campaigns at the moments theyre most likely to convert. Future iterations of the agent will forecast demand shifts, suggest package concepts based on browsing behaviour, alert teams to emerging travel trends and even create personalised offers for specific guest segments  effectively becoming a proactive commercial partner that drives both innovation and revenue potential.

The AI toolkit is the latest in a long lineage of forward-thinking innovations introduced at LHGs hotels, some dating back to the launch of its flagship property, The Langham, London, in 1865. As Europes first Grand Hotel, it was the only establishment of its kind to embrace offerings such as electric lighting, hydraulic lifts, and hot and cold running water  advancements that redefined guest journeys at the time. Today, that same pioneering mindset guides the companys approach to a broad range of new technologies, including intelligent heating and cooling, smart check-in solutions, and top-of-the-line property management systems, all designed with the same enduring purpose: to enrich the guest experience.

About Langham Hospitality Group

A wholly-owned subsidiary of Great Eagle Holdings, Langham Hospitality Group (LHG) comprises a family of distinctive brands, including The Langham Hotels and Resorts, Cordis Hotels, Eaton Workshop and Ying"nFlo. With over 40 hotels and residences in operation or development, LHG has a global footprint that extends across Asia, Europe North America and the Middle East. The group takes its name from The Langham, London, Europe's first Grand Hotel. For over 150 years, this flagship property has been the pinnacle of sophisticated and gracious hospitality, a philosophy that is reflected group-wide through inspiring design, cutting edge innovation, sincere service and an unwavering commitment to building great memories

Rick Gangwani

Langham Hospitality Group

+852 2186 2309

Langham
Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH), renowned for its independently minded portfolio of boutique properties, has launched a sustainability Call-to-Action (CTA) Report.

Marking the 35th anniversary of the brand in 2025, SLHs version of a CTA report looks at the past, present and future of small luxury hotels and sustainability. The report shares the inside track of the SLH journey to date, valuable insights learned along the way from its standout properties and impactful partnerships, and outlines commitments to come.

The report, SLHs largest call to action yet, is a continuation of an ethos that has always kept sustainable principles front of mind, championing small, independent and family-owned hotels since its inception. By nature of being anti-chain and anti-same, the luxury escapes in the portfolio have been operating in sustainable, mindful ways for decades, with hero hotels now exemplified in SLHs Considerate Collection.

Spotlighting worldwide examples from the growing Considerate Collection, the report emphasises the power of amplifying solution-led success stories. As the report explores, the hope is transparent knowledge sharing will continue to mobilise action and spark more creative solutions, not just in the SLH community but also serve to inspire positive impact across the luxury hospitality industry.

The report also shares empowering partnerships with OutThere and IncluCare, launches SLHs 10 Minimum Standards and encourages conversation on regenerative hospitality principles that small, luxury hotels embody and can take forward.

Small Luxury Hotels of the World Chief Operating Officer Richard Hyde said

the Call-to-Action Report represents the brands long-held commitment to sustainability and small luxury hotels.

SLH has always inspired travellers to explore the world with intention and integrity. Reflecting as we reach our 35th anniversary, the report outlines how we are holding ourselves and our hotels accountable on the journey and how we can work together to encourage more action, not only for our member hotels but to advance the industry.

SLH Commitment: Considerate Collection Expansion

Having celebrated its fourth anniversary in October 2025, the Considerate Collection showcases the most actively sustainable and regenerative luxury hotels in the portfolio. With 24 properties added in the last 12 months*, the discerning collection has grown to showcase 82 hotels that offer travellers greener getaways in 40+ countries.

Admitted by merit only and not leveraged for profit, each hotel has achieved the highest categories of the SLH Sustainability Criteria and embodies the core pillars of being environmentally conscious, community minded and cultural custodians.

The growing collection now includes Lilly Lindenberg in Norway, Quinta Da Comporta  Wellness Boutique Resort in Portugal and Calcot & Spa in the Cotswolds, UK to name a few. Additionally, Laguna Coast Resort in Naxos, Greece newly opened in May 2025 and Namia River Retreat, a wellness sanctuary in Hoi An, Vietnam which opened in December 2024, are just some of the latest worldwide hotel openings to join SLH and the Considerate Collection. SLH has made a commitment to encourage and welcome more hotels to this carefully curated collection, recognising the industry benchmark it sets.

Solution-led stories from the Considerate Collection are front and centre in the report. Honouring hydrology and modelling zero land movement at Rio Perdido in Costa Rica, connection to Indigenous culture at Arctic Bath, Sweden and prioritising sustainability for people as well as place at Sundy Praia in Sao Tome and Principe, are just a few examples.

SLH Commitment: 10 Minimum Standards of Sustainability by 2027

Whilst data collection and measurement tools remain challenges, and with the Considerate Collection leading the way, SLH has formalised 10 Minimum Standards of sustainability expected of every SLH member hotel in its growing portfolio  now more than 650 properties in 90+ countries. Launched in 2025 with all hotels set to align by 2027, the 10 Minimum Standards educate and encourage hoteliers on key topics such as water and energy efficiency, DEAI, local and ethical procurement and more, with tangible examples and means to address them.

The new standards offer a holistic sustainability blueprint applicable to the entire SLH portfolio, encouraging action from every hotel, whether a rainforest retreat or rustic fishermens hut, to move forward on their sustainability journey.

SLH Commitment: Facilitating Considerate Connections

SLH will also continue to foster meaningful exchanges on the topic of sustainability through its Considerate Connections series for member hotels. Gathering Considerate Collection hoteliers from around the world, SLH held the inaugural Considerate Connections Retreat in September 2025 at Dar Ahlam in Morocco, for them to connect and learn from one another. Set against the backdrop of the House of Dreams, where regenerative principles are applied in practice to every experience, hoteliers did a deep dive into the concept and how small, luxury hotels are best placed to lead the way, industry wide.

Sustainable Partnerships in Action

The culmination of 35 years of SLH experience, the Call-to-Action Report is also testament to the power of partnerships. Along the way SLH has worked with GSTC, Women in Travel, Tree-Nation and most recently, the Hilton Honours programme since 2024.

As part of the report process, SLH partnered with OutThere, the award-winning, global luxury and experiential travel journal and LGBTQIA+ consultant. SLH was audited to ensure the needs of all guests including those of the LGBTQIA+ community were addressed, resulting in enhanced zero-tolerance governance policies visible across all elements of the brand. From the consumer-facing hotel experience, to making sure marketing, advocacy and communications in the future are undeniably inclusive and clearly representative of all guests.

Another example is IncluCare, which has more than a decade of consulting in tourism to provide better service for those with physical, sensory and neurodivergent or other visible or nonvisible exceptionalities. Shared by SLH, the IncluCare verification programme has been adopted by a growing number of SLH hotels, with the travel industry and travellers benefitting from more investors taking advantage of IncluCare initiatives.

About Small Luxury Hotels of the World

Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) is the most desirable community of independently minded travellers and independently spirited hotels in the world. We turned the luxury boutique hotel into a phenomenon and selected the distinctive, the diverse and the downright delightful. People, places and experiences with individual character, intimate charm and inherent class. We've personally visited, vetted, and verified over 600 hotels in more than 90 countries. We are envisioning a future where people experience the world with intention, experience its intensity and protect its integrity. Be part of the community - join us at SLH Club, visit us at www.slh.com, contact travel agent or call the Small Luxury Hotels of the World VIP Desk. Click here to view a full contact listing by country.
Williamstown Select Board Asked to Consider Fireworks Ban

WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass.  Just days away from the Thanksgiving holiday, the Select Board Monday was asked to think about how residents celebrate a different holiday: Independence Day.

Paul Harsch took the podium during the public comment period of the board's meeting to ask the elected officials to think about an ordinance to ban ordnance.

"I know during one of your recent meetings, Matt [Neely] suggested setting up a committee to study fireworks," Harsch told the board. "Probably, you were thinking of a committee to figure out how to pay for it. I'm here to suggest the Select Board, if it does the responsible thing, environmentally, you would make that very difficult decision to ban the use of fireworks in this town.

"It would be major. But there is so much science on the toxins given off from fireworks, plus, of course, the harmful effects on animals and wildlife."

Harsch gave the board documents outlining some of that science with links to articles he found in his research on the topic.

There is no shortage of references to choose from. One 2015 study cited by the American Lung Association on its website found that, "air pollution levels increased by an average of 42 percent on the Fourth of July."

The issue also is personal for Harsch, who told the board that his family lost a pet to a heart attack suffered at home during a July 4 fireworks display. He also cited studies by biologists at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services who concluded that, "fireworks can cause nesting birds to abandon their nest in confusion."

"[N]esting mothers of the flock sometimes cannot find their own nest upon return, endangering the well-being of nestlings," Canadian researchers have found.

"These painful deaths are particularly tragic because they are completely avoidable," Harsch told the Select Board in his eight-page memo on fireworks.

Per their policy, the Select Board's members did not respond to Harsch's request because the topic was not on the agenda for Monday's meeting.

But Harsch encouraged the board to take the bold step of banning fireworks and follow a local tradition of such steps, citing Williamstown's local ban on smoking in restaurants that predated the commonwealth's 2004 smoke-free workplace law and town meeting's 2015 decision to outlook single-use plastic bags in retail settings.

"Restaurants were terrified by the prospect of ending smoking," Harsch said. "They thought no one would come to the bars and restaurants.  Everyone survived and thrived. And it was the same with plastic bags."

Harsch asked the board to think seriously about a local ban on fireworks, admitting that he has strong personal feelings about the celebratory ritual.

"Frankly, I hate fireworks," he said. "I dislike the noise. We never go. I understand it's a very popular thing in many areas. But I also think it's one of those things that we haven't as a nation or as human beings questioned sufficiently.

"Why do we have to glorify war, which, essentially it is  when, for example, the disaster in Ukraine is happening right now, right before our eyes?"

In other business on Monday night, the Select Board finalized a memo to the town manager outlining the board's priorities for the fiscal year 2027 budget as discussed at its Nov. 10 meeting, and requested that the board's own line item in the spending plan be cut by 80 percent.

Chair Stephanie Boyd noted that as of Monday, the board had spent only a couple hundred dollars from a $10,000 allotment in the FY26 budget year that began on July 1.

That money has been spent on travel expenses for board members attending professional events hosted by the Massachusetts Municipal Association, for example. And Boyd recommended that the body carve out some space in the town budget for that type of expense.

The other members agreed but indicated that having too much in the way of discretionary funds in the Select Board's name would encourage residents to come to the body with funding requests throughout the year.

"More than that creates multiple requests for $7,000 because people hear there's a Select Board budget with no strings attached," Peter Beck said. "It ends up being whoever asks first and loudest."

Rather, Beck said, projects that need town funding should go through the regular budget process, which gets rolling this winter when Menicocci develops an FY27 spending plan to present to the Finance Committee in February for review ahead of May's annual town meeting.

The Select Board Monday voted 4-0 to lower its FY27 budget line request to $2,000.

It also voted 4-0 to put in place a policy for the board's consideration of exercising the town's right of first refusal when lands previously conserved under Chapter 61 come on the market. The policy is largely the same as the draft Boyd presented on Nov. 10 with the following changes: It adds the Finance Committee to the list of town boards and committees that will be notified when the town is notified of a land sale and it removes language about the town having access to said land during its consideration process because Massachusetts law already has provisions for such inspections.

Fireworks: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly Truth by iBerkshires.com
Alexander White, right, Thursday runs to victory at the MountainOne Thankful 5K.

Hundreds Raise Tens of Thousands of Dollars for Food Pantries at Thankful 5K

Lauren and Hazel Osborne finish Thursday's Thankful 5K at Berkshire Community College.

PITTSFIELD, Mass. -- Lauren Osborne did not finish in the top 10 of Thursday morning's 10th annual MountainOne Thankful 5K.

Not even the top 100.

But with their full-fledged turkey costumes, it was a shoo-in that she and her husband Carl would be in the running for best dressed.

At 9 a.m., the Osborne family toed the line for the 3.1-mile circuit around the Berkshire Community College campus, out West Street and back to the parking lot.

Unlike most of the 561 runners who finished the course, the Osbornes wore festive attire that included "feathers" that stretched from their wrists to their waists.

The family has competed in the annual fund-raiser for county food banks several times over the years when they were in the area visiting family. But Thursday marked the first time they trod the course in turkey gear.

"You get some wid resistance," Lauren said, saying that the feathers don't restrict arm movement as much as one might think. "It's not too bad. It keeps you warm."

She waid that events like the Thankful 5K, which double as fund-raisers, add to the running experience.

"It means so much when you can give back to the community," she said. "I think that's what fills your heart. And, certainly, on a day like today, with Thanksgiving, it allows you to just be grateful for everything that you have."

Dalton's Alexander White won the event going away with a time of 16 minutes, 12.56 seconds and 5:13 mile pace. He finished 40 seconds ahead of runner-up Towsend Roussin of West Roxbury.

The first woman across the finish line was Barbara Alexander, who crossed the line in 19:48.28 to place 13th overall.

The big winners were local food pantries.

The race raised, before expenses, about $32,000 -- twice its total from 2024, which was the previous high for a decade-old event that keeps growing in leaps and bounds.

Ten years ago, the race drew 140 runners in its first year. On Thursday morning, almost 750 people registered for the event.

Fittingly, the Berkshire Running Foundation chooses Thanksgiving as the time to raise money to support those experiencing food insecurity.

Thursday's race marked the end of a calendar filled with charity races run by the Berkshire Running Center, starting with May's Mother's Day event to support the Elizabeth Freeman Center and including the massive 4th of July 5K to benefit Berkshire Health Systems' community programs and the Soldier On 5K on Veterans Day.

"From when Kent [Lemme] and I started this with our races, we think we're closing in on $400,000 that we've put back into our community in 10 years," Shiobbean Lemme, co-owner of the Berkshire Running Center, said after Thursday's race. "This year alone, I would imagine we're going to put somewhere around $75,000 to $80,000."

This year's Thankful 5K was helped not only by presenting sponsor MountainOne but by a number of local businesses and by the fund-raising efforts of runners who solicited donations well beyond the registration fee.

Lemme said the huge turnout on Thursday is indicative of how much the running community responds to events that allow them to give back to the greater community.

"They want it," she said. "They want to do these. Kent and I have taken over almost every holiday on the calendar year between different events. This year, we did 14 events. Next year, we'll do 21.

"I get calls every week from people wanting to put a race on. They see what we're doing. They're like, 'What can we do to have that happen for our school or our church or whatever? The Berkshire Running Foundation is a non-profit that was started in 2023, and our mission is to improve our community through running events.

"And we do that."

Top 20

1. Alexander White, Dalton, 16 minutes, 12.56 seconds; 2. Townsend Roussin, West Roxbury, 16:52.15; 3. Dennis Love, 17:34.27; 4. Noah Wesley, Dalton, 17:34.42; 5. Max Adam, Pittsfield, 17:39.12; 6. Jack Archey, 17:46.83; 7. Stefan Ogle, 18:17.67; 8. Nicholas Curelop, Lenox, 18:24.02; 9. Mark Duane, 18:29.50; 10. Justin Hopkins, 18:56.12; 11. Teagan Far, Lenox Dale, 19:20.27; 12. Dylan Lundgren, Dalton, 19:27.54; 13. Barbara Alexander, East Nassau, N.Y., 19:48.28; 14. Amy Alkhafaji, Hoboken, N.J., 19:52.92; 15. John Wiechecki, Cranston, R.I., 19:57.28; 16. Morgan Windram-Geddes, Glendale, 20:06.37; 17. Matt Tirrell, Hastings on Hudson, N.Y., 20:07.62; 18. Stephen Foley, Pittsfield, 20:24.08; 19. Travis Sacher, Bedford Hills, N.Y., 20:26.41; 20. Berdy Cheramy, 20:42.17.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

At least 128 people have now been confirmed dead and dozens more are injured in the massive fire that tore through a Hong Kong apartment complex on Wednesday, with hundreds still listed as missing.

Seven of the eight residential towers at Wang Fuk Court in the Tai Po district caught fire in the Chinese citys deadliest blaze in almost 80 years, forcing nearly 900 of the 4,800 residents to stay in temporary shelters overnight.

Hong Kongs security chief Chris Tang told a press conference on Friday afternoon that the operation to search for survivors had ended and the toll now stood at 128.

A unit of the complex burst into flames again at around 5am local time with fire tongues visible through windows, accompanied by heavy smoke, The Standard reported, though that has now also been brought under control.

Mr Tang said the injured included 12 firefighters, and that more than 1,000 police officers had been pressed into action as part of the emergency response.

Firefighters had mostly contained the fire by Thursday afternoon, allowing rescue workers to begin scouring the complexs smouldering remains for survivors.

open image in gallery Hong Kong Secretary for Security Chris Tang, third from left at rear, speaks to the members of media after the deadly fires at Wang Fuk Court ( AP )

Hope they can find more survivors. I think they have tried their best. The firefighters have done a lot, resident Jacky Kwok said. Its a terrible disaster that no one wanted to happen."

Rescuers battled intense heat, thick smoke and collapsing scaffolding and debris as they fought to reach residents feared trapped on the upper floors of the complex.

The blaze was expected to be fully extinguished by Friday evening, fire services deputy director Derek Armstrong Chan said, adding that firefighters had located multiple survivors in the destroyed buildings.

open image in gallery Around 900 residents were forced to stay in temporary shelters after a Hong Kong residential complex caught fire ( AFP via Getty )

Most of the victims were found in two towers of the complex, the deputy director said.

As many as 279 people were listed as missing on Thursday and that figure was yet to be updated.

Mr Chan said 25 calls for help to the fire services remained unresolved, including three in recent hours, which would be prioritised.

A distraught woman carrying her daughter's graduation photograph searched for her child outside a shelter, one of eight that authorities said were housing the nearly 900 displaced residents.

She and her father are still not out, said the woman, who gave only her surname, Ng, as she sobbed. "They didnt have water to save our building."

open image in gallery At least 94 people are confirmed dead in the Hong Kong fire ( AP )

The fire has put a spotlight on the use of bamboo scaffolding in the city, a decades-long practice, after bamboo lattices came crashing down in flames.

Police said that the buildings exterior walls had protective nets, membranes, waterproof tarpaulins, and plastic sheets suspected of not meeting fire safety standards.

The blaze started on the external scaffolding of a 31-storey tower, engulfed its bamboo scaffolding and construction netting, moved inside the building, and eventually leapt to nearby highrises, likely aided by windy conditions.

In the wake of the fire, police arrested two directors and an engineering consultant of Prestige Construction, which was contracted to perform maintenance on the building, on suspicion of manslaughter.

Authorities accused the grossly negligent firm of using unsafe building material.

Police superintendent Eileen Chung said authorities had reason to believe that the companys responsible parties were grossly negligent in their use of materials that allowed the fire to spread uncontrollably.

Authorities also raided the companys office and seized bidding documents, a list of its employees, 14 computers and three mobile phones.

open image in gallery Firefighters on the scene ( AFP via Getty )

Hong Kong chief executive John Lee said that his development bureau had met with construction industry representatives to discuss replacing bamboo scaffolding with metal alternatives.

Meanwhile, the displaced residents hunkered down in temporary shelters, including in a nearby school where they were provided bottled water, food and other necessities overnight, with volunteers bringing further supplies.

The Hong Kong government said it would provide 1,000 units of youth hostels or hotel rooms for residents to stay in for up to two weeks.

open image in gallery Residents rest at a temporary shelter near the fire scene at Wang Fuk Court ( AP )

Among the dead was hero firefighter Ho Wai Ho, 37, who died while rescuing residents from one of the buildings.

He was found collapsed at the scene of the fire and immediately taken to the Prince of Wales Hospital, the fire department said. Despite efforts, he succumbed to his injuries at 4.41pm local time, according to the city administration.

Ho served with the department for nine years. Authorities and his friends paid tribute to his gallantry and selfless devotion to duty.

open image in gallery Firefighter Ho Wai Ho died while rescuing residents of a Hong Kong residential complex ( Shanghai Daily/X )

Fire services director Andy Yeung called Hos performance valiant. I am profoundly grieved at the loss of this dedicated and gallant fireman, he said.

All of our colleagues are deeply saddened by the loss of such a devoted comrade. On behalf of all our colleagues, I have offered the deepest condolences to his family.

An identification centre was set up at Kwong Fuk Estate Community Hall to allow family members to identify their missing relatives.

The city administration would hold a memorial service for the dead and cancel all government-organised celebration events, Mr Lee said.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping extended sympathies to relatives of the victims, CCTV said.

Russian president Vladimir Putin expressed condolences to Mr Xi over the fire, state news agency TASS reported on Thursday.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

A South Korean security guard has been cleared of stealing snacks worth 0.54 from his workplace after dozens of colleagues came forward to testify that they have been doing the same for years.

The Jeonju District Court overturned a lower courts judgment that fined the worker 50,000 won (26), ruling that he did not have the intent to steal.

The case dates to January 2024 when the guard, 41, ate a Choco Pie and a custard cake worth a combined 1,050 won (0.54) from the fridge of a logistics company in Wanju in the North Jeolla province.

The snack is a small cake made of soft sponge layers with a marshmallow filling and a chocolate coating and is known by different names around the world. A similar treat goes by the name Wagon Wheels in the UK, Moon Pies or Marshmallow Pies in the US and angel pie in Japan.

The guards employer reported him for theft after seeing the incident on CCTV, leading to prosecutors pursuing a summary indictment.

While the prosecutors initially sought a fine of 500,000 won (258), the security guard requested a full trial because a confirmed theft conviction would have barred him from continuing in the industry.

A court found him guilty in May and imposed a fine of 50,000 won, prompting criticism over what many saw as a disproportionate punishment.

The snacks were customarily treated as communal, the guards lawyer said during the trial, according to Korea Joongang Daily.

Do people have to ask permission every time they take a snack or a drink thats being provided in an open space? Had he really intended to steal, they would have taken the whole box, not just one or two packs. This just goes to prove that they had no intention to steal.

The lower court said the fridge was located inside the office space, separate from the waiting area for drivers, and that long-standing custom did not override the need for explicit permission.

Prosecutors changed their position when the guard appealed the ruling, asking the district court to issue a suspended sentence rather than insisting on guilt, a shift prompted in part by heavy public criticism and by the recommendation of a civic committee convened to examine their handling of the case.

open image in gallery A security guard in South Korea is cleared of stealing snacks from his workplace after colleagues testify to taking food from the same office refrigerator ( AFP via Getty )

According to a report in the Korea Herald, labour groups argued that the case showed disproportionate punishment against subcontracted workers, with some comparing the treatment of the guard to Jean Valjean from Les Miserables.

The guards union separately argued that workers had long been told they could eat the snacks and indicated that the complaint could be tied to workplace tensions and union activity.

During a parliamentary audit, Democratic Party lawmaker Seo Young Kyo criticised the handling of the case, asking why a fourth-tier subcontracted employee had been put on trial for eating snacks worth so little.

In the end, the intervention by the guards co-workers likely proved pivotal. At least 39 colleagues risked investigation for theft charges by submitting statements admitting they had taken snacks from the fridge. One delivery driver even appeared as a witness to say that we freely ate the prepared snacks when arriving before dawn.

The appellate judges accepted their testimony, concluding the guard could reasonably have believed that he had permission and, therefore, lacked criminal intent. They also observed that no employee had ever previously been disciplined for similar behaviour.

The court further highlighted that drivers had been told they could eat the snacks and that security staff also ate during night shifts.

The manager of the logistics office held a sharply different view, insisting that the case was fundamentally about trust and security. He argued, according to The Korea Times, that subcontracted guards werent authorised to open the fridge unlike its staff.

He had never granted permission for anyone to take food, he added, and described the situation as akin to leaving fish with a cat.

After the acquittal, the guards lawyer thanked the public for the outrage over the case.

This outcome was possible thanks to the attention and concern from the public and the press. The defendant was deeply ashamed to have faced trial over eating a snack because he was hungry at dawn, he said, according to a report in Korea Bizwire.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

A state legislature in India has passed a new law criminalising polygamy that critics say is designed to target the Muslim minority.

The Assam Prohibition of Polygamy Bill 2025 makes entering a second marriage while the first legally exists a cognisable criminal offence, meaning police can arrest the man without a warrant. An offender can be jailed for up to 10 years and barred from taking state jobs and contesting elections.

The measure introduced by the northeastern Assam state also authorises financial compensation for women harmed by such marriages, with a dedicated government body to determine payouts, according to NDTV.

Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma claimed the law was meant to safeguard womens rights and declared that it was the first step towards UCC, a Uniform Civil Code for all citizens to replace personal laws for various religious communities.

The UCC is a politically contentious project championed by Sarmas BJP party, which rules Assam as well as India.

Mr Sarma pledged to introduce such a code in the first session of the new assembly if he was returned to office next year, India Today reported.

Activists and opposition leaders criticised the new law and accused the government of targeting the Muslim minority.

They noted that the law didnt apply to Scheduled Tribes, indigenous communities recognised under the Indian constitution, or to the people living in areas under the administration of tribals, such as the Bodoland Territorial Region and the hill districts of Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao. The states tribals are predominantly non-Muslim.

Opposition members asked why women in exempted territories should not receive similar protections if the law wasnt targeted at the Muslim community.

They also said the law conflicted with the Muslim Personal Law, an act of the Indian parliament permitting a Muslim man to have up to four wives.

Abdir Rashid Mandal, a legislator from the opposition Congress party, argued that this would render the bill ultra vires, meaning beyond the powers of the state, reported the Indian Express.

In response, Mr Sarma said his government would send the bill for presidential assent, a route taken where state legislation could be considered to diverge from federal law.

He insisted that the measure was not directed at Muslims and would apply equally to Hindus, Muslims and also Christians.

Indian prime minister Narendra Modi with Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma during an election campaign rally ( AFP via Getty )

The new law states that entering a second marriage while the first remains valid is punishable by up to seven years in prison and a fine. Concealing an existing spouse while contracting a subsequent marriage attracts a harsher penalty of up to 10 years.

Anyone who knowingly performs, participates in or facilitates an unlawful marriage, including parents, village heads, legal guardians and religious authorities such as the Muslim marriage registrars known as qazis, may face up to two years in jail and fines of up to Rs 150,000 (1,269).

The law defines polygamy as marrying another woman while having a living spouse. It also covers a marriage that is solemnised while a previous one is not legally dissolved or annulled.

All India United Democratic Front legislator Aminul Islam argued that the law fit into a pattern of state actions targeting Muslims.

There has been a pattern of the government getting its hands into Muslim personal matters, be it abolishing the old Muslim Marriage Act and passing a new one or laws stopping land sale, he said. So, somewhere, we are seeing the target is Muslim-related matters.

We have laws targeting us, we cant buy or sell land, suffer evictions, he said. There is an attempt to create unrest among one-third of the population, which will cause unrest in the entire society.

Another Congress legislator, Jakir Hussain Sikdar, said women in exempted areas suffered as much as women elsewhere and demanded to know why they were not covered by the law.

Mr Sarma countered that the state assembly lacked authority to legislate for areas administered by tribals without their consent and hoped that autonomous councils would adopt similar laws.

The chief minister used the debate in the legislature to outline future legislation he intended to pursue, including raising the legal marriage age for women to 21, equal inheritance rights, compulsory marriage registration, a ban on temporary marriages under some interpretations of Islamic law, and a new statute addressing deceptive marriage.

Mr Sarma insisted the new law was not against Islam, India Today said. Islam can't promote polygamy. If this bill passes, then you will get a chance to be a true Muslim.
Sign up to the Independent Climate email for the latest advice on saving the planet Get our free Climate email Get our free Climate email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

A red alert has been issued for some coastal Indian states set to be slammed by powerful Cyclone Ditwah, which has left 123 people dead and at least 130 missing in Sri Lanka.

Cyclone Ditwah formed off Sri Lankas east coast and pounded the South Asian island nation on Wednesday, causing massive destruction. It was upgraded to a cyclonic storm by the India Meteorological Department on Thursday.

Sri Lankan president Anura Kumara Dissanayake declared a nationwide state of emergency after the cyclone exited the island, leaving a trail of destruction.

The regulation was made public on Saturday to allow faster mobilisation of military, police and health services to provide relief and rescue operations.

Nearly 44,000 people have been displaced and are in temporary shelters, Sri Lankas disaster management center said.

Disaster Management Centre (DCM) director general Sampath Kotuwegoda said they launched relief operations for thousands of people moved to state-run welfare centres after a week of rain caused flooding and landslides.

open image in gallery People carrying belongings wade through a flooded road after heavy rainfall in Kaduwela on the outskirts of Colombo ( AFP via Getty Images )

open image in gallery A man pushes a makeshift raft along a flooded street after heavy rainfall in Ambatale on the outskirts of Colombo ( AFP via Getty Images )

Relief operations with the help of the armed forces are under way, Mr Kotuwegoda told reporters in Colombo. Days of torrential rain triggered major slope failures, swollen rivers, and widespread inundation. Badulla, Nuwara Eliya, Kandy, Batticaloa and Polonnaruwa were among the worst-hit areas, with homes buried and entire communities cut off.

Authorities said many people still remain stranded in various flood-hit areas as the water has been swelling two days after the cyclone made landfall.

Indian forecasters on Thursday said Ditwah is located southwest Bay of Bengal, just off the coast of north Sri Lanka.

Its heading roughly toward the coast of the southern Indian city of Tamil Nadu, making landfall by early Sunday. The IMD said it is expected to cross the north Tamil Nadu coast between Cuddalore and Puducherry as a Cyclonic Storm.

open image in gallery Map from Indian Meteorological Department shows Cyclone Ditwahs path and arrival time ( IMD )

It is expected to bring extremely heavy rainfall, wind speeds of 80-90kmph, and rough sea conditions to coastal Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and parts of Andhra Pradesh as it approaches the shore.

In view of the approaching storm, Tamil Nadu placed parts of the delta and northern coastal belt under a red alert, including Nagapattinam, Thanjavur, Chengalpattu and Tiruvarur.

The metropolitan city of Chennai and nearby areas were put under an orange alert for possible flooding and transport disruption. Fishermen were warned to stay ashore and people in low-lying areas were asked to prepare for potential evacuations.

Some regions in the neighbouring Karnataka state were also expected to see increased rainfall.

The weather department did not forecast a direct landfall but warned the system would pass close enough to produce damaging winds, flooding and dangerous sea conditions.

Rainfall brought by Cyclone Ditwah was forecast to continue into early December.

Indian prime minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the deaths and destruction in Sri Lanka and said India stands ready to dispatch emergency relief material.

open image in gallery Children play at the beach ahead of Cyclone Ditwah in Chennai, India, November ( REUTERS )

My heartfelt condolences to the people of Sri Lanka who have lost their loved ones due to Cyclone Ditwah. I pray for the safety, comfort and swift recovery of all affected families, Mr Modi said.

He said India had already dispatched emergency relief material and key humanitarian assistance under Operation Sagar Bandhu, as Colombo battles the aftermath of the storm. We stand ready to provide more aid and assistance as the situation evolves, he added.

India dispatched two search and rescue teams, comprising 80 rescuers, and sent aid to support ongoing operations, the country's embassy in Colombo said Saturday.

open image in gallery A man carries his cat across a flooded road in Wellampitiya on the outskirts of Colombo on November 29, 2025 ( AFP via Getty Images )

In Sri Lanka, rainfall had eased across most of the country, including the capital, but parts of the islands north were still experiencing showers due to the lingering effects of Cyclone Ditwah.

The government deployed the armed forces to reinforce rescue and relief work nationwide, using military helicopters and boats to evacuate stranded residents  including those trapped on treetops, rooftops and in cut-off villages.

Officials said the death toll had risen after more bodies were recovered in the worst-hit central region, where many victims were buried alive in this weeks mudslides.

Vavuniya and Mullaitivu recorded more than 300mm of rain in 24 hours, with several other places exceeding 200mm.

open image in gallery A flooded hospital after heavy rains is seen in Chilaw, north of Colombo ( AP )

The worst losses were reported in the central tea-growing region of Badulla, where a landslide crashed into homes overnight, killing at least 21 people, the disaster agency said in a statement.

Social media video showed houses being swept away as floodwaters surged through towns while major highways linking provinces were cut by landslides and inundation.

Sri Lankas weather department warned of heavy to extremely heavy rain in the island nations northern, north-central, northwestern, central provinces as well as parts of eastern and western provinces as the cyclone continued to feed moisture into the monsoon flow.

The Sri Lankan government shut schools and some public offices in the badly affected regions and deployed nearly 20,500 army personnel for search-and-rescue and relief operations.

open image in gallery A woman and child walk under a downpour in Colombo, Sri Lanka ( AP )

All passenger trains, except for a handful of essential services, were cancelled from 6am on Friday because tracks in multiple districts were damaged or submerged, the railway department said.

Students sitting for A-Level exams had their tests postponed due to the disruption.

open image in gallery People walk past a section of a highway blocked by a landslide in Badulla, Sri Lanka ( AP )

Sri Lanka experiences annual monsoon rains, but officials say events of this scale are rare.

The worst flooding this century occurred in 2003, when 254 people were killed and hundreds of thousands displaced.
Sign up to the Independent Climate email for the latest advice on saving the planet Get our free Climate email Get our free Climate email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Food and nature experts have expressed dismay at the outcome of Brazils recently-concluded Cop30 climate conference, after the final text failed to make any mention of the impact of climate change on food systems.

A plan to address food systems emissions is critical to decarbonisation, with the sector responsible for around one-third of overall emissions , which originates from areas including livestock, waste disposal, food processing, as well as rice paddy fields, which produce large quantities of methane.

From a climate adaptation point of view, food systems are also considered crucial, given that an estimated 500 million people around the world are smallholder farmers, whose livelihoods are put at ever greater risk year after year due to extreme weather.

These smallholders are estimated to have a further two billion people dependent on them - while studies suggest that they produce around one-third of the worlds food.

It is deeply disappointing that the [outcome] did not explicitly mention food systems and agriculture, says Haseeb Bakhtary, who was following the negotiations closely for the consultancy Climate Focus. We were all hoping for and advocating for an explicit inclusion of food systems but that has not happened.

Seb Osborn, who was doing the same for the nonprofit Mercy For Animals, shares a similar view. I think it was a disappointing outcome, he says. The fact that there are mentions of energy, deforestation, and a lot of other sectors  but not of food systems  is surprising.

open image in gallery A smallholder farmer in the Afar Region of Ethiopia. The worlds 500 million smallholders are among the most vulnerable people to climate change ( WFP/Michael Tewelde )

A UN report released during Cop30, meanwhile, found that disasters have led to agricultural losses worth $3.26tn (2.49bn) over the past 33 years, amounting to around 4 per cent of global agricultural GDP.

With agri-business giant Brazil hosting this years climate summit, many had hoped that Cop30 would lead to a stronger outcome for agriculture and food than previous years.

As to why that wasnt the case, Bakhtary believes that this is largely due to the fact that food systems are very context-specific, with different countries having very different agricultural sectors.

We still could have had an outcome recognising the need for food system transformation across countries, which acknowledges that the change needs to be driven by local contexts, he says.

Raj Patel, research professor at the University of Texas, believes that the outcome has the fingerprints of industrial agriculture lobbyists all over it. This is not failure. This is capture, he says. Until we name it for what it is, and until governments choose people over corporate interests, these negotiations will continue to betray the very communities they claim to serve.

The farmer with a devastated cocoa crop

Cop30s location in Belem, a city on the edge of the Amazon Rainforest, means that you did not have to go far to find evidence of food systems under threat from the climate crisis.

A short boat ride from the city centre takes you to Combu Island where Dona Nena farms cocoa beans on land owned by her family for more than a century, and also produces artisanal chocolate.

Speaking among her cocoa trees, which lie among native forest trees on the edge of the rainforest, she told The Independent that previously-unseen extreme weather had been significantly disrupting her harvests by disrupting the harvest time and reducing the size of her crop.

open image in gallery Dona Nena inspects cocoa beans on her farm on Combu Island ( Nick Ferris )

Weve been noticing we dont have as much rain as before - we are supposed to be in a rainy season already - but they havent come, she said. By now we should have many more fruits, so that we can start our harvest in December.

But since last year, we have been realising that the harvest has been changing. The production has been decreasing, and sometimes there are deformed fruits.

There are clear asks that Dona Nena would have if more money was available from authorities to address the climate crisis, particularly around improved water-access infrastructure like water pumps and local damming systems.

We hope that at Cop30 they will pay attention to us smallholders with better policies - and also work to grant us better public services around sanitation, education and security, she added, speaking to The Independent just ahead of the final deal being agreed.

open image in gallery Cocoa beans grow on the trees of Dona Nena's farm ( Nick Ferris )

According to Florence Collenette, a senior technical manager on climate at The Fairtrade Foundation, Dona Nenas story is typical.

Every day, we hear from smallholder farmers and agricultural workers who are already grappling with the harsh realities of climate change, she says. One cocoa farmer in Cote dIvoire recently shared how erratic rainfall patterns caused yields in his cooperative to plummet by more than 50% last year.

Smallholder food producers in developing countries grow over a third of the worlds food and are on the frontlines of climate adaptation. Yet, their voices are too often missing from the global conversation.

Climate adaptation letdown

The key Cop30 negotiating area that would help Dona Nena is climate adaptation, which is all about financially and technically supporting people as climate impacts intensify.

The other key negotiated document at Cop30 beyond the Mutirao was the Global Goal on Adaptation (GGA), which is a framework through which countries are supposed to be measuring climate adaptation under the Paris Agreement , based on a number of core indicators.

Food systems were mentioned here, with areas highlighted including the management of food yields, research and development, food supplies, and land degradation. However, Mercy For Animals Seb Osborn, the outcome on adaptation was inadequate.

We did not see any real discussion of the specifics of indicators until quite late in the Cop, and then only in closed sessions, he says. And what we have on food systems is quite unclear, and I think countries are going to struggle to monitor and report on these as they are supposed to.

For Bakhtary, just the fact that food systems are mentioned is a small win, even if it is not what advocates had been pushing for. The big disappointment for him is instead the aid plan that has been negotiated alongside the goal - to triple financing for climate adaptation for poorer countries by 2035 - and the low likelihood that this will filter down to farmer communities.

The financing goal is vague and has an unclear baseline - and it comes in the context of agriculture and food systems only receiving around 1 per cent of climate finance currently, he says. He adds - as The Independent has previously reported - that the systems through which the money is accessed need to be completely transformed if there is any hope that it will reach the smallholder farmers most in need of the money.

Bakhtarys comments come as a report published ahead of Cop30 found that smallholders with 10 hectares of land or less will require $443bn a year to adapt to climate impacts: A figure lower than the $470 billion a year that the UN estimates are currently spent on environmentally-destructive agricultural practices.

Smallholders are currently spending an estimated 20 to 40 per cent of their annual income on adaptive measures - which can range from irrigation channels to climate-resistant seeds to new equipment - despite having done next to nothing to contribute to the climate crisis.
Among those listening carefully for any property updates as chancellor Rachel Reeves delivered the 2025 autumn Budget, will have been Brits contemplating a major move often viewed as a huge life decision.

These are potential downsizers, and while estimates vary on their numbers, data and surveys both suggest there has been serious interest in recent years to sell up their home and go smaller.

Regency Living, a company that sells bungalows, says Google search figures show weekly searches for downsizing have risen by 450 per cent in the past five years. Meanwhile research undertaken by Suffolk Building Society last year estimates that 15 per cent of UK homeowners, some 6.3 million adults, are considering or planning to downsize during the current five-year parliamentary session.

Alex Edmans, product director at Saga Money, calls downsizing a huge life decision for many, but one which particularly affects the over-50s, who may find themselves considering moving once younger generations have flown the nest. She points to benefits including reducing housing costs, time spent on maintenance and enabling a move closer to family.

Ms Edmans adds: With the 2025 Budget now confirmed, now is a good time for homeowners to review their options.

While real estate experts say there was little in Reeves red case that would act as major sweeteners to sell, there were certain updates, coupled with current lending conditions, that may encourage people to feel that 2026 could be a sensible time to downsize.

Mansion tax will hit larger homes

A mansion tax was widely rumoured in the run-up to 26 November, and it has now been confirmed how residential properties in England worth 2m or more will be impacted.

The High Value Council Tax Surcharge comes in from April 2028, with four bands, and the annual charge is on top of the existing council tax.

Larger homes and those in the capital could be more exposed. Dominic Agace, chief executive of estate agency group Winkworth, says: The Budget contained no measures that would dissuade people from downsizing. If anything, the changes in council tax might well give a nudge to those asset-rich and cash-poor retirees, mainly in London, to make the move.

Get a free fractional share worth up to 100.

Capital at risk. Terms and conditions apply. Go to website ADVERTISEMENT

Get a free fractional share worth up to 100.

Capital at risk. Terms and conditions apply. Go to website ADVERTISEMENT

Peter Graham, national tax lead for real estate and construction at accountancy firm RSM UK, says the surcharge could detrimentally impact those who are asset-rich due to rapidly increasing house prices, but who, in reality, may not be wealthy.

He adds this could become an added incentive for people in high-value properties looking to downsize, but points out the costs of moving, including stamp duty land tax, may be prohibitive.

open image in gallery A new tax on high-value homes may lead to medium- and long-term plans being changed ( Getty )

Tom Bill, head of UK residential research at estate agent Knight Frank, added: The mansion tax announcement is unlikely to mean many downsizers suddenly accelerate their plans. It wont be introduced for three years and comes with the possibility that payment can be deferred until sale or death. However, the precedent of a new tax on higher-value homes and the possibility of future threshold reductions may alter their thinking in the medium to long term.

No stamp duty changes

There may have been plenty of speculation around stamp duty reform, but no changes were actually announced, at least where property is concerned.

Marcus Dixon, director of UK residential research at real estate consultancy JLL comments: To increase activity in the downsizer market wed have hoped for more carrots, with a reduction in moving costs (namely stamp duty) far more effective in encouraging more rightsizing.

But despite the lack of demand-side incentives, we still expect a pick-up in activity in 2026. Home movers who have been sitting on the sidelines waiting for the Budget now have some much-needed clarity.

Borrowing terms could be appealing

In welcome news for buyers and sellers, Dixon adds that rates are heading down, with competitive mortgage deals.

Ying Tan, chief executive of digital mortgage broker Habito, outlines why he considers that even without specific downsizer incentives, the financial case to potentially make the move is already strong.

He says moving from a four- or five-bed home into something smaller doesnt just reduce the price of the new property, it drops you into a lower loan-to-value band, where todays mortgage rates are lower.

Habito has produced the table below that gives an example scenario of a homeowner downsizing.

open image in gallery ( Habito )

The firms calculations are over 25 years, on capital and interest repayment for two- and five-year average rates, for submitted applications in the last three months at Habito.

Mr Tan says: So while the chancellor didnt actively encourage downsizing for the majority, the combination of cheaper borrowing at lower LTVs and the future cost of holding high-value homes means more large-property owners may start running the numbers sooner than expected.

When investing, your capital is at risk and you may get back less than invested. Past performance doesnt guarantee future results.
Sign up for our free Health Check email to receive exclusive analysis on the week in health Get our free Health Check email Get our free Health Check email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

A growing number of people are turning to AI chatbots for emotional support and even in place of therapists, but this could be having a detrimental impact on some users health, with increasing reports of extreme behaviour apparently inspired by heavy usage of AI services.

A concerning pattern of AI chatbots validating or reinforcing users delusions may be contributing towards a surge in reports of so-called AI psychosis or ChatGPT psychosis  neither of which is recognised clinically, but which have been increasingly reported in the media and in online forums.

A recently published preprint by an interdisciplinary team of researchers from institutions including Kings College London, Durham University and the City University of New York, examines more than a dozen cases documented in news reports and online forums, revealing a troubling trend: AI chatbots often reinforce delusional thinking.

The study notes that grandiose, referential, persecutory, and even romantic delusions can become increasingly entrenched through ongoing conversations with AI services.

Earlier this year, tech site Futurism reported on growing concerns that a wave of people around the world are becoming obsessed with AI chatbots and spiralling into severe mental health crises.

Their initial report then prompted more and more similar stories to come pouring in, of people whod rapidly developed terrifying breakdowns after developing fixations on AI.

The various reports include cases where a man scaled the walls of Windsor Castle in 2021 with a crossbow and then told police he was there to kill the Queen after spending weeks engaging with a chatbot that reassured him it would help him plan the attack.

open image in gallery Currently, no peerreviewed clinical or longterm studies show that AI use alone can trigger psychosis in people ( AFP/Getty )

Another case involved a Manhattan accountant who spent up to 16 hours a day speaking to ChatGPT, which advised him to come off his prescription medication, increase his ketamine intake and suggested he could fly out of a 19th-storey window.

Another man in Belgium took his own life while in the grip of concern about the climate crisis, after a chatbot called Eliza suggested he join her so they could live as one person in "paradise.

But while the anecdotal evidence is growing, scientists are now on a mission to understand whether it is the chatbots causing these breakdowns or if many of these cases instead highlight how vulnerable people may already have been on the verge of displaying psychotic symptoms.

Currently, no peerreviewed clinical or longterm studies show that AI use alone can trigger psychosis in people, regardless of prior history of mental health issues.

In the paper, Delusion by Design, the experts said that during the course of their research, a complex and troubling picture has emerged.

They suggested that without appropriate safeguards, AI chatbots may inadvertently reinforce delusional content or undermine reality testing, and might contribute to the onset or worsening of psychotic symptoms.

The team noted that even while conducting their research, the number of anecdotal cases had spiralled alarmingly. Reports have begun to emerge of individuals with no prior history of psychosis experiencing first episodes following intense interaction with generative AI agents, the authors wrote.

open image in gallery OpenAI is the company behind the AI service ChatGPT ( AFP/Getty )

We consider that these reports raise urgent questions about the epistemic responsibilities of these technologies and the vulnerability of users navigating states of uncertainty and distress.

In an article in Psychology Today, published this week, psychiatrist and author Dr Marlynn Wei warned that because general AI chatbots are designed to prioritise user satisfaction, and ongoing engagement, rather than therapeutic support, symptoms like grandiosity, disorganized thinking and hypergraphia (compulsion to write and/or draw excessively), which are hallmarks of manic episodes, could be both facilitated and worsened by AI use.

She said this underscores the urgent need for AI psychoeducation, as there is currently not enough awareness of the various ways in which chatbots can reinforce delusions and worsen mental health outcomes.

In another article published this month responding to the research and the anecdotal evidence, Lucy Osler, a lecturer in philosophy at the University of Exeter, said the innate shortcomings of AI should remind us that computers are still unable to replace real interactions with our fellow humans.

Instead of trying to perfect the technology, maybe we should turn back toward the social worlds where the isolation [which drives some people to AI dependency] could be addressed, she said.

In a statement, OpenAI told The Independent: We know people sometimes turn to ChatGPT in sensitive moments. Over the last few months, we've worked with mental health experts around the world and updated our models to help ChatGPT more reliably recognise signs of distress, respond with care, and guide people toward real-world support. Well continue to evolve ChatGPTs responses with input from experts to make it as helpful and safe as possible.

The Independent has contacted Microsoft for comment.
Sign up for our free Health Check email to receive exclusive analysis on the week in health Get our free Health Check email Get our free Health Check email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

The shape of your gluteus maximus can predict whether you are more likely to develop diabetes, new research suggests, adding to the evidence that a high-fitness lifestyle will keep you healthier for longer.

The NHS has long warned that as people become older and more overweight, the chance of developing Type 2 diabetes increases. Now, research indicates that the shape of the muscle in our rear ends changes with age and with conditions such as diabetes or osteoporosis.

Not only is the gluteus maximus one of the largest muscles in the human body, but it also plays an important role in metabolic health, researchers from the University of Westminster explained.

Dr Marjola Thanaj, the studys co-author from the universitys research centre for optimal health, said: People with higher fitness, as measured by vigorous physical activity and hand grip strength, had a greater gluteus maximus shape, while ageing, frailty and long sitting times were linked to muscle thinning.

Scientists mapped the shape of the gluteus maximus and its impact on people's health ( Radiological Society of North America )

Researchers used MRI 3D mapping to create a three-dimensional anatomical model which revealed distinct, sex-specific patterns in the gluteus maximus muscle associated with Type 2 diabetes. Compiling data from 61,290 MRI exams housed in the UK Biobank database, the MRI analysis suggested that the shape - not size - of the muscle may reflect metabolic differences connected with the illness.

Analysis of participants with diabetes showed that men categorised as frail had more general muscle shrinkage across the gluteus maximus, while women had more enlarged muscle that was likely due to infiltration of fat within the muscle, the researchers found.

Dr Thanaj said the results suggest that men and women have very different biological responses to the same disease.

The study highlights the importance of maintaining muscle mass, not just for strength reasons, but because of how muscle helps regulate blood sugar and reduces the risk of conditions ranging from cardiovascular disease to fatty liver disease.

Professor Louise Thomas, a senior author of the study, told The Times: Maintaining muscle mass as we age is one of the most important things we can do for our long-term health.

If people understand how important their muscles are, and make small changes to keep them healthy, that could have a huge impact on disease across the population.

Changes as simple as taking the stairs rather than the lift, or adding some squats and lunges into a weekly routine, can help to maintain and train your gluteus maximus.

The research will be presented next week at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America.
For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

An Albanian national who was twice deported from the UK has been jailed after illegally re-entering for a third time, prosecutors have confirmed,

Emirjon Gjuta, 34, was sentenced to 14 months in prison on Friday at Leeds Crown Court after admitting at a previous hearing to re-entering the UK in November 2024 in breach of the 2020 deportation order.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) stated that Gjuta was first deported in August 2020 following convictions for drug offences.

He was subsequently arrested in March 2022 for unlawful presence and deported again to Albania in March 2023, having been sentenced for breaching his deportation order and possessing another persons identity document.

A spokesman said the defendant claimed he had not fully understood the contents of the deportation order because he had not had an interpreter in court in 2020 and 2022.

But he said documents signed by Gjuta confirmed that he did not object to the 2020 deportation order and never sought to appeal against it.

The spokesperson said it was not clear how Gjuta arrived in the UK in November 2024 but he was arrested in Leeds in September 2025.

Nick Smith, from the CPS said: Emirjon Gjuta had no right to remain or work in the UK and has been deported twice already.

open image in gallery It was not clear how Gjuta arrived in the UK in November 2024 but he was arrested in Leeds in September 2025, a spokesperson said ( Anna Gowthorpe/PA )

Its clear he does not care about the rules and has committed crimes when hes been in the UK previously.

The CPS will continue to work with the Home Office and police forces to prosecute those who have no right to be in the country.

The CPS said Gjuta was jailed for four years and six months in September 2019 after admitting to conspiring to produce cannabis and two counts of possessing or controlling identity documents with intent.

In October 2019 he was served with a decision to deport letter and signed a disclaimer not to oppose his deportation.

He was deported in August 2020.

In March 2022, Gjuta was sentenced to eight months in prison after he was arrested for breaching a deportation order and false document offences.

He was deported again in March 2023, the CPS said.
Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

The UK will block Spanish pork from coming into the country due to an outbreak of African swine fever, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has said.

All fresh pork and other affected products coming into the country from Spain will be held at border control posts until further notice, the ministry said on Friday.

It comes after Spain recorded its first cases of African swine fever (ASF) in more than three decades on Wednesday in Bellaterra, near Barcelona.

Defra said they would monitor the situation and keep measures under review.

Spain's farmers' association, Asaja, said the sector was ready to face the outbreak, but called on authorities to address an "out-of-control presence" of wild animals that risked contaminating livestock.

China has also banned pork imports from Barcelona province in light of the reports.

open image in gallery File - Spain is the European Union's leading pork producer, accounting for roughly a quarter of the bloc's output ( PA Archive )

Spain is the European Union's leading pork producer, accounting for roughly a quarter of the bloc's output, ahead of Germany, with annual pork exports of about 3.5 billion euros (3.07bn).

African swine fever (ASF) is a potentially fatal disease affecting pigs. It is not the same as swine flu and does not affect humans, Defra says.

The disease is highly contagious and can spread if healthy pigs eat infectious products or make contact with infected pigs or contaminated items.

Last month, Taiwan reported its first cases of African swine fever and culled at least 195 pigs from the affected farm. Authorities also ordered a ban on the movement and slaughter of pigs across the island.

In 2019, millions of pigs were culled in China and Vietnam as the virus spread through Asia.

The virus has been spreading westwards in Europe in recent years. In 2021, Germany had to cull 4,000 pigs due to reports of ASF. In recent months, Croatia has been trying to contain an outbreak.

Last year, Defra tightened the rules around personal pork imports over concerns about ASF entering the UK.

Britain's government earlier this year banned personal imports of ham and other meat and dairy products from all EU countries to prevent the spread of foot-and-mouth disease, following a rising number of cases.
Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

French police will intercept small boats at sea in an attempt to stop migrants crossing the Channel after mounting pressure from the UK for them to do more to prevent the perilous journeys.

A document seen by French newspaper Le Monde, signed by four prefectures in the north of France, agrees that maritime police will start planned operations to intercept the dinghies before migrants board them. The push-backs will begin at sea initially, and then be conducted in the inland waters of ports and channels, the paper reported.

It comes after Sir Keir Starmer reportedly sent a letter to French president Emmanuel Macron, putting pressure on him to act on small boat crossings and promising significant funding. The letter, quoted by French media, says: It is essential that we deploy these tactics this month... We have no effective deterrent in the Channel.

But charity Care4Calais, which supports migrants, has condemned the move as dangerous and said it will put lives at risk.

France has been under pressure from the UK to intercept small boats amid growing public anger over illegal migration, as Labour ramps up its efforts to deter people from making the crossings.

The new agreement will see Frances maritime gendarmerie attempt to intercept so-called taxi boats that cruise along the shore waiting for migrants to wade out to them before picking them up to cross the Channel.

The method has grown because the French police have previously been wary of intervening once the dinghy is in the water. Now, police boats will try to stop the small boats, with one vessel dedicated to rescue operations.

Maritime police will be expected to employ a range of measures to try and get the small boats to stop, starting with an order to halt, followed by immobilising the vessel and diverting it.

In April this year, then-home secretary Yvette Cooper said that the French had agreed to change their rules and stop small boats in the water. However, the plans reportedly faltered amid political turmoil in the French government.

open image in gallery French police vessels look on as migrants wade into the sea to try and board a dinghy to cross the English Channel ( Getty )

Then earlier this month, it was revealed that French police would start using large nets to stop small boats leaving French shores to get them to change course or by using them to block their propellers despite warnings that such tactics could lead to deaths.

Responding to the news that the French would start intercepting boats, a government spokesperson said: We continue to work closely with our French partners on the shared challenge of illegal migration, and we have already worked to ensure officers in France review their maritime tactics so they can intervene in shallow waters.

A No 10 spokesperson said: As you know, we never comment on reported leaks of private correspondence.

Youll be aware that the prime minister and President Macron speak regularly on this topic, and we always want to go further on our work with our French partners on tackling illegal migration.

Steve Smith, CEO at Care4Calais, said: This is a dangerous moment that will cost more lives. Intercepting boats whilst they are in the water has never been done before because, quite frankly, it puts people at risk.

He added: All these new enforcement tactics will do is risk more lives as French police hostility, such as intercepting boats in the water, forces people to take ever dangerous measures in order to seek sanctuary in the UK.

It comes after new statistics released on Thursday revealed that 51,000 people had arrived in the UK by irregular routes in the year up to September, with 46,000 people making the perilous journey across the Channel.

open image in gallery Migrants walk past French police officers after failing to board a dinghy to cross the English Channel ( Getty )

Small boat arrivals were up 53 per cent on the previous year. Home secretary Shabana Mahmood recently announced sweeping reforms to the asylum system in a bid to deter the rising number of migrants coming to the UK.

Under the plans, refugee status is to become temporary, with sanctuary grants subject to regular review every 30 months.

Sir Keir reportedly cited these radical reforms in his letter to Mr Macron in mid-November. According to Le Monde, Sir Keir warned the French president: If we fail to resolve this crisis together, those who come after us will try to do it for us. They may choose a very different path, breaking with treaties, conventions, and international cooperation, and pitting nations against each other.

This policy would lead the European continent down a very worrying path.

Sir Keir promised the French additional resources and equipment, such as drones and aircraft, and significant funding for the purchase of more ships, the paper reported.

The new funding cycle for securing the Franco-British border is set to conclude in March.
Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

The UKs decision to proscribe Palestine Action as a terrorist organisation has been likened to authoritarian crackdowns in Russia by a UN expert.

The UN special rapporteur on counterterrorism and human rights, Professor Ben Saul, said the UK governments ban on the direct action protest group is an unnecessary and disproportionate restriction on fundamental human rights.

In evidence submitted to the High Court, he warned that the move sets a precedent for further crackdown on other protest movements in the UK, such as climate activists.

Co-founder of Palestine Action, Huda Ammori, has taken the government to court over Yvette Coopers decision in June to proscribe the group as a terror organisation when she was home secretary.

Alarmed by the move, Prof Saul, an independent expert appointed by the UN Human Rights Council to monitor abuses, has intervened in the court case.

He told the court that the UKs terror ban was out of step with comparable liberal democracies, including Europe. He wrote in a witness statement: Abuse of laws to proscribe organisations as terrorist that are not genuinely so has more commonly occurred in States that are authoritarian and lack legal and political cultures of respect for human rights, legality, due process and independent judicial safeguards.

open image in gallery Campaigners outside the Royal Courts of Justice, central London, where Palestine Action co-founder Huda Ammori is taking legal action against the Home Office ( PA )

He continued: These include egregious abuses, such as Russias listing of the global LGBTQI movement as an extremist organisation. Organisations must never be listed as terrorist for engaging in protected speech or legitimate activities in defence of human rights.

He told the court that the ban was not proportional to the activities of Palestine Action, saying that the proscription is not justified based on the actions of a small minority of individuals involved with it. Prof Saul added that the ban would have a widespread chilling effect on peoples legitimate right to protest.

Raza Husain KC, for Ms Ammori, told the High Court on Wednesday that this is not a group that advocates violence, saying any examples of serious violence against property or person are not the norm, they are rare.

The ban has since led to thousands of people being arrested under terror laws for holding up signs saying they oppose genocide and support Palestine Action.

open image in gallery Palestine Action supporters, outside Royal Courts of Justice this week. The final day of Ms Ammoris case will be heard next Tuesday ( PA )

The group was proscribed after an incident in June where activists broke into RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire and sprayed two military planes with red paint. Ms Cooper cited the groups protest at a weapons equipment factory in Glasgow in 2022, and its targeting of Israeli defence technology company Elbit Systems UK in Bristol in her reasoning for proscribing Palestine Action.

Woolwich Crown Court heard on Monday that an activist allegedly hit a police sergeant with a sledgehammer during the attack on Elbit in Bristol in August last year.

Government witness statements submitted in the High Court case show that Ms Cooper faltered over her decision to proscribe Palestine Action, and paused the initial go-ahead to get further information.

Jonathan Sinclair, director of national security in the Homeland Security Group at the Home Office, said that Ms Cooper decided on 14 May this year to proscribe Palestine Action, but then paused this decision two days later after requesting further information.

One month later, on 20 June, Ms Cooper confirmed that she would again agree to proscribe the group.

Sir James Eadie KC, for the government, said that a debate about how a terrorist organisation is defined was for parliament to decide.

The barrister told the court: In our democratic society, these issues are matters for parliament to judge and parliaments judgment is expressed in the current legislation.

In written submissions, Sir James said that the proscriptions aim is stifling organisations concerned in terrorism and for members of the public to face criminal liability for joining or supporting such organisations.

He continued: That serves to ensure proscribed organisations are deprived of the oxygen of publicity as well as both vocal and financial support.

The case, before Dame Victoria Sharp, Mr Justice Swift and Mrs Justice Steyn, is due to conclude on 2 December, with a decision expected in writing at a later date.
Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Sir Keir Starmer has been plunged into a fresh row with Labour rebels just days after a make-or-break Budget designed to ease pressure on his leadership, as ministers abandoned part of a flagship policy on workers rights.

Labour was accused of a complete betrayal by its own backbenchers after the U-turn on plans to give staff day-one protections against unfair dismissal, which they say breaches the partys own election manifesto.

The prime minister is now facing calls to scrap the climbdown amid warnings from one of the partys largest donors, the union Unite, that his employment rights plan has become a shell of its former self.

open image in gallery Sir Keir Starmer has been accused of a betrayal over the watering down of workers rights legislation ( AFP/Getty )

But businesses welcomed the move, and unions were split on the issue, with the TUC general secretary Paul Nowak backing the move and saying the absolute priority was to get the legislation on to the statute books as soon as possible.

The extraordinary row came after rebels welcomed Rachel Reeves swing to the left in a tax-raising Budget on Wednesday, which included a so-called mansion tax on high-value homes and the abolition of the controversial two-child benefit cap.

But there was fury just a day later after ministers axed the proposal to slash the qualifying period for workers to make an unfair dismissal claim, from 24 to six months, in a bid to get the legislation through Parliament after opposition in the House of Lords. Other day-one rights, to paternity leave and sick pay, are still set to go ahead, however.

Leading rebel Labour MP Rachael Maskell said she was deeply disappointed by the U-turn, an intervention which could signal trouble for the government. Ms Maskell was one of 47 Labour MPs who rebelled against proposed welfare curbs in July, forcing Downing Street to back down.

Another rebel, MP Brian Leishman, told The Independent the move was a broken promise. Totally unacceptable, while Labour MP Justin Madders, a former government minister and an ally of Angela Rayner - who pioneered the legislation - accused the government of breaching its manifesto.

It might be a compromise. It might even be necessary to get the bill passed [as soon as possible]. But it most definitely is a manifesto breach, he said.

open image in gallery Rachel Reeves delivered a tax-raising Budget on Wednesday ( PA Wire )

But business secretary Peter Kyle denied the concession was a breach of Labours manifesto, claiming the way through had been found by unions and the employers and its not my job to stand in the way of that compromise.

Education secretary Bridget Phillipson also denied the move had broken a manifesto promise, because Labours election document had committed to a consultation.

In the manifesto, what we said was that we would work with trade unions, with business, with civil society, in consulting on those protections that wed be bringing forward. So, there are both parts to that, within the manifesto, the important rights and the consultation, she said.

But Ms Maskell condemned the move, saying: I stood on a manifesto where we said we would put day one rights in place and that did include unfair dismissal, so of course I am deeply disappointed to hear these changes have been made.

Above all, this is coming from the House of Lords, the unelected chamber.

Labour MP for Middlesbrough and Thornaby East, Andy McDonald, branded the move a complete betrayal and vowed to push for its reversal.

He said: We cannot support that halfway measure, adding: This is a wrong-headed move and I will campaign to have this concession reversed.

open image in gallery Education secretary Bridget Phillipson denied that the concession on Labour's flagship employment rights bill was a broken manifesto promise ( PA Wire )

Kate Osborne, the MP for Jarrow and Gateshead East, told the Independent: "Just a day after the Budget we are indicating that we are abandoning a manifesto commitment, it is deeply disappointing for a Labour Government with a majority of 200, while her colleague Richard Burgon predicted business would have scented blood and they'll now be pushing to further dilute this Bill.

Labour MP for Poole, Neil Duncan-Jordan, complained there had been no discussion with the parliamentary Labour Party about the move.

The Lords dont have primacy over a manifesto commitment, so why have we capitulated?, he told the PA news agency.

Another Labour MP said the climbdown showed that Sir Keir and Ms Reeves were weak and had caved to external pressure, adding: The shtick is this is a workers Budget for working people, and then one of your flagship programmes, you knock off a key part of it. Its a manifesto breach.

Unite boss Sharon Graham said the bill had become a shell of its former self, adding: These constant row-backs will only damage workers confidence that the protections promised will be worth the wait. Labour needs to keep its promises.

But TUC general secretary Paul Nowak said the absolute priority now was to get the legislation passed.

Following the governments announcement, it is now vital that peers respect Labours manifesto mandate and that this bill secures royal assent as quickly as possible, Mr Nowak said.

Clapham and Brixton Hill Labour MP Bell Ribeiro-Addy told the BBC: Rolling back now is a huge problem because if were rolling back now, what other tweaks are we going to accept? What else are we going to get pushed into? Were literally the Labour Party.

While former shadow chancellor John McDonnell said in a post on X: Is this a sellout? Yes, it certainly is. If its unfair to sack someone, its unfair whenever it occurs, whether its day one or after six months. The principle is fairness.

Business groups welcomed Thursdays concession, saying the qualifying period of six months was crucial for businesses confidence to hire and to support employment, at the same time as protecting workers.

But they warned that firms would still have concerns about many of the powers within the bill, including thresholds for industrial action, guaranteed hours contracts and seasonal and temporary workers.

We remain committed to working with government and unions to dealing with this in the necessary secondary legislation to implement the bill, the six industry groups involved in discussions with trade unions said.

Tory leader Kemi Badenoch described the move as another humiliating U-turn for Labour and said the legislation still contains measures that will damage businesses and be terrible for economic growth.
Ive written five political biographies in my time as a journalist and broadcast numerous television profiles. I especially love delving into peoples childhoods and schooldays for early clues of what was to come. And for Nigel Farage, more than anyone else Ive studied, one can see so many aspects of the Reform leader of today in his teenage self.

In the late 1970s and early 1980s, Farage, now 61, attended Dulwich College, the distinguished south London private school whose alumni include Ernest Shackleton and PG Wodehouse. In the sixth form, Farage stood out among his slovenly, scruffy peers for always wearing a neat, spotless jacket and tie, and highly polished leather shoes. He loved discussion and argument. When his teacher organised class debates and called for a volunteer to propose the motion, Farages hand would shoot up. If rejected, hed volunteer for the opposite side.

He was known for being provocative and disruptive with his views, and for enjoying winding up trendy, left-wing English masters. Farage now is strikingly like the Farage of then. Then, as later, the Dulwich schoolboy could be disruptive and divisive. As a teenager, he was impressed by two well-known speakers who visited the college: Enoch Powell and Margaret Thatchers key philosophical mentor, Keith Joseph, whose speech hes since said encouraged him to join the Conservative Party. It was during this time that Farage developed the English nationalist outlook we see today, with particular concerns about immigration.

open image in gallery Farage was known for being provocative and disruptive with his views, and for enjoying winding up trendy, left-wing English masters ( Nigel Farage )

In 2013, I made a film for Channel 4 News, which included a letter from a young teacher, Chloe Deakin, to David Emms, the Dulwich headmaster (formally called The Master). In it, she opposed his decision in 1981 to make Farage a prefect at 17, describing him as having publicly professed racist and neo-fascist views.

The head and his deputy dismissed the charges against Farage as examples of him just being provocative. When confronted by these accusations in 2013, Farage said: Any accusation I was ever involved in far-right politics is utterly untrue. Other former pupils of the school told Channel 4 that Mr Farages views were merely Thatcherite. And it should be noted that many contemporaries I spoke to didnt recognise the picture of Farage as a fascist either.

When I confronted Farage for the Channel 4 film, he seemed surprisingly relaxed on camera when he admitted to me about his schooldays: Of course I said some ridiculous things. Racist things? I asked. Not necessarily racist things. It depends on how you define it.

It was only later, when I wrote my independent biography of Farage, One Party After Another: The Disruptive Life of Nigel Farage (2022), that my ex-wife and I tracked down a number of former pupils and teachers and were able to get a more complete picture.

Among those I contacted was a Jewish film producer who was happy for me to quote his words, but didnt want his name in the book. He alleged that Farage told him that he ought to be gassed. When TheGuardian published their investigation last week, the film producer was now happy to be named as Peter Ettedgui.

He would sidle up to me and growl, Hitler was right, or Gas them, Ettedgui claimed, sometimes adding a long hiss to simulate the sound of the gas showers  Id never experienced antisemitism growing up, so the first time this vicious verbal abuse came out of Farages mouth was deeply shocking.

open image in gallery In the late 1970s and early 1980s Farage attended Dulwich College ( Getty )

Ettedgui also suggested that Farage was openly racist towards Black and Asian boys: 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. This kind of abuse cuts through to the core of your identity.

The Guardian quoted one Asian former pupil who claimed that when he was a young boy at Dulwich, Farage  by then in the sixth form  would pick on Asian children in the junior school. That included me on three occasions; asking me where I was from, and pointing away, saying: Thats the way back, to wherever you replied you were from  It was a very horrible ordeal. Another fellow pupil, Tim France, was quoted as saying, He would often be doing Nazi salutes and saying Sieg heil and, you know, strutting around the classroom. He was a member of the cadet force, [so] often being in uniform. And, yeah, it might have been for shock value, partly, but I think, you know, clearly, he also is very right-wing politically.

He was saying really, really unpleasant things, really things that you just knew were wrong. You cant really defend it as being a joke, or that he was too young to know any better. We were 18.

open image in gallery The politician has always tried to brush stories from his schooldays aside ( PA )

Both TheGuardian and I heard from witnesses who claimed Farage sang a notorious song called Gas em all, a vile variation of the 1940s George Formby wartime song Bless Em All (The Long and the Short and the Tall). Farage strongly denies that.

The Reform leader has always tried to brush stories from his schooldays aside, often light-heartedly. Before my book came out, eight years ago, Farage told me that the terms of abuse thrown around between 15-year-old boys were limitless; there were no boundaries. I think red-haired boys fared especially badly.

But that has changed recently. On Monday this week, Farage gave a TV interview about his behaviour at Dulwich. Asked if he had racially abused fellow pupils at school, he replied: No, this is 49 years ago, by the way. Forty-nine years ago. Have I ever tried to take it out on any individual on the basis of where theyre from? No. When pressed again to categorically deny the claims, he said: I would never, ever do it in a hurtful or insulting way. Its 49 years ago. Its 49 years ago. I had just entered my teens. Can I remember everything that happened at school? No, I cant. Have I ever been part of an extremist organisation or engaged in direct, unpleasant, personal abuse, genuine abuse, on that basis? No. When asked yet again whether he had racially abused anyone, he responded: No, not with intent.

On Tuesday, he released a statement in which he said: I can tell you categorically that I did not say the things that have been published in The Guardian aged 13, nearly 50 years ago ... It is only now that my party is leading in the polls that these allegations come out. I will leave the public to draw their own conclusions about why that might be  We know that The Guardian wants to smear anybody who talks about the immigration issue. But the truth is that I have done more in my career to defeat extremism and far-right politics than anybody else in the UK, from my time fighting the BNP right up to today.

Farages barrister, Adam Richardson, has since threatened to sue TheGuardian for aggravated damages, saying that Farage emphatically denied the allegations as wholly untrue. A Reform spokesperson said the allegations were a case of one word against another.

open image in gallery During his adult life, Farage has been a strong supporter of Israel ( AFP/Getty )

His denials may deepen the hurt felt by many of those who are now saying that they were on the receiving end of his comments. Diehard Reform supporters may not care about these stories, but others will feel very uncomfortable. Farage and Reform need a much wider appeal to form a government. They risk alienating not just Jewish voters, but middle-of-the-road Labour, Conservative, and Liberal supporters tempted to switch to Reform but who care about racism and antisemitism.

I dont believe that Farage has been an antisemite during his adult life, and he has been a strong supporter of Israel. Nor do I believe he is racist these days, though he sometimes seems to pander to those who are. He is, as he pointed out in his statement, proud of the way, under his leadership, he helped see off the racist BNP in the 2000s, and he resigned from Ukip in 2018 after one of his successors as leader began consorting with Tommy Robinson.

What is also significant is that during my research, I spoke to dozens of people from his various parties who had fallen out with Farage (he falls out with many colleagues). Although they had plenty of negative things to say about him, only one accused him of being racist.

The barrister for Reform UK has been emphatic in his denial of the latest allegations, describing them as wholly untrue. Richardson said: The suggestion that Mr Farage ever engaged in, condoned, or led racist or antisemitic behaviour is categorically denied.

However, speaking to reporters on the way to the G20 summit in Johannesburg, Keir Starmer said Farage still had questions to answer about the alleged racist comments and chants when at school.

The PM said: He needs to explain the comments, or alleged comments that were made, and he needs to do that as soon as possible. He hasnt got a good track record in relation to this because Sarah Pochin, his MP, made some clearly racist comments and Nigel Farage has done absolutely nothing about it.

He added: The man is spineless. If that had been someone in my party, Id have dealt with it straight away. He needs to explain the latest allegations, and whilst hes at it, he needs to explain why hes too spineless to take action in relation to what is obvious racism in the comments of his fellow MP.

When The Independent contacted Reform about the allegations, they declined to make any further comment.
Net immigration fell to 204,000 in the year to June, according to the latest estimate from the Office for National Statistics. This is the level that was the norm for several years before the EU referendum. It was considered too high by a majority of the population at the time  a view that contributed to the 52 per cent Leave vote in 2016.

It now looks a remarkably low figure, compared with the peak of the Boriswave, when net immigration reached 944,000 in the year to March 2023, under Boris Johnsons liberal post-Brexit rules.

Meanwhile, separate figures published by the Home Office show that there were 36,000 asylum seekers in hotels in September, a rise of 2 per cent over the previous year.

The same figures for the year to September also show a large increase in the number of people arriving in the country by irregular routes, such as small boats or lorries: 51,000 people arrived by irregular routes, 46,000 of whom arrived by dinghy  up 53 per cent on the previous year.

Whats driving the fall in immigration?

The reduction in legal immigration has been predicted since the last Conservative government realised the scale of what was happening and changed the law to restrict visas. The largest part of the Boriswave was people on health and care visas and their families  and most of the restrictions on this group were applied by James Cleverly as home secretary before the change of government.

It is worth noting, though, that the fall in net immigration is not driven by British or EU nationals leaving the country. Emigration has risen, according to the ONS, but this is accounted for solely by non-British, non-EU nationals.

Why do people think immigration is rising?

Public perceptions have not yet caught up. According to research by British Future, an immigration think tank, most of the general public thinks that immigration is still rising.

Sunder Katwala, the director, said: This is another significant drop in net migration, but research shows this has not cut through to the public, who still think immigration is going up.

He added: Falling immigration has been the best-kept secret in British politics for too long. It is time that our immigration debate caught up with reality.

Katwala urges the government to make the case for a moderate level of immigration, to go back to the pre-Brexit debate about what level gives the optimum balance between the pressures and gains.

Is this possible while small boats keep coming?

Perceptions of immigration are probably influenced by the most visible form, which is the cross-Channel traffic of small boats. Given that almost all of these arrivals claim asylum, the asylum figures may be the most important for the governments attempt to assure public opinion that it is in control.

Those Home Office statistics reveal that 110,000 people claimed refugee status in the year to September  higher than the previous peak of 103,000 under the last Labour government in 2002.

Tony Blair and Jack Straw, his home secretary, brought the numbers down quite quickly in the early 2000s, but Keir Starmer and Shabana Mahmood face a much tougher struggle, trying to succeed where Rishi Sunak, Suella Braverman and James Cleverly failed.
Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Rachel Reeves has been accused of misleading the public on the state of the countrys finances to justify 26bn worth of tax hikes in her Budget.

There had been dire warnings that the chancellor faced a 20bn black hole, and in an extraordinary speech on 4 November, she signalled higher taxes were likely, blaming Donald Trumps tariff war and the Budget watchdogs expected downgrade of economic productivity for the hard choices she would be forced to make.

But it has now emerged that Ms Reevess comments came days after the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) told her the economic picture had significantly improved and that, instead of a deficit, she had a surplus of 4.2bn.

Tory leader Kemi Badenoch called for the chancellor, whose Budget was seen as make-or-break for her political future, to be sacked, saying she had lied to the public to justify record tax hikes and was bribing Labour MPs to save her own skin.

Downing Street denied Ms Reeves had misled the public and the markets. I dont accept that, the prime ministers official spokesperson said.

But Paul Johnson, a former head of the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS), said: I think it [her November 4 press conference] probably was misleading.

He said her words were clearly intended to confirm what independent forecasters such as the National Institute of Economic and Social Research (NIESR) had been saying, after it predicted Ms Reeves would have to fill a multi-billion-pound black hole in the nations finances.

open image in gallery Reeves has been accused of misleading the public and the markets ( PA Wire )

Mr Johnson said the speech was designed to confirm a narrative that there was a fiscal black hole that needed to be filled with significant tax rises. In fact, as she knew at the time, no such hole existed.

The row comes after a new letter published on Friday by the OBR to the Commons Treasury select committee revealed that it told the chancellor as early as 17 September that the funding gap would be much smaller than originally thought at 2.5bn. And in October, she was told it had disappeared altogether.

When it later emerged on 13 November that Ms Reeves had ditched plans to raise income tax, Treasury sources briefed that she had decided against the move after receiving better-than-expected economic forecasts from the OBR.

However, the OBR suggested it had provided ministers with no new forecasting in November.

No changes were made to our pre-measures forecast after October 31, the watchdogs letter to the Treasury select committee said.

In an interview with The Guardian on Friday, Ms Reeves insisted she made fair and necessary choices in the Budget, and that she was unwilling to make cuts.

She added it should be the responsibility of Britains wealthy to take on the burden of rebuilding the countrys creaky public services, and denied that that working-age people were being asked to carry more of the burden than pensioners.

I wasnt willing to cut public services, because people voted for change at the election, she said. Well never get out of this problem of weak growth unless weve got investment in the economy, and were investing in things to boost our productivity.

The chancellor also addressed leadership speculation after a rocky few weeks for the prime minister, but insisted the party was behind Sir Keir Starmer.

We all know what happened in the last government, when they went through leaders and chancellors, she said. It was bad for the country.

Responding to the revelations, the current director of the IFS, Helen Miller, wrote on X (Twitter): [Rachel Reeves] was not handed a big fiscal repair job... Why then that odd breakfast TV speech?

Her colleague, economist Ben Zaranko, said he was baffled and questioned: Was the plan to lead everyone to expect a big income tax rise, then surprise them on the day by not doing it... ?

Shadow chancellor, Sir Mel Stride, told The Telegraph that Labours story did not add up. It was all a smokescreen. Labour knew all along that they did not need to raise taxes and break their promises, he said.

But NIESR deputy director Stephen Millard said Ms Reevess actions could be looked at both ways.

open image in gallery Conservative party leader Kemi Badenoch has called for Reeves to be sacked ( PA Wire )

He said: It could be argued that the chancellor misled the public, and importantly the financial markets, in the run-up to the budget  and particularly in her speech on 4 November  when she presented the fiscal position as being bleak and stressed the need for significant tax rises.

However, it is equally possible that she simply wanted to prepare the public for the large tax increases in the Budget that were necessary for her to build a bigger buffer against her fiscal rules, something that NIESR argued for in our Autumn Economic Outlook.

If this were the case, then actually it would be important to let the markets know that she was serious about raising taxes, which the 4 November speech did. Although we feel that the 22bn buffer is not enough  we advocated 30bn  increasing the size of the buffer does make it less likely that the OBRs March forecast will require a further response from her (like it did back in March of this year), allowing her to stick to her pledge of only one fiscal event next year.

On Wednesday, Ms Reeves unveiled 26bn worth of tax hikes in what she branded a Labour values Budget. In moves to appease the left in her party, she announced a package of measures that included 43 separate tax rises, which, according to Sir Mel, took the tax burden in the UK to its highest level in history.

That included freezing thresholds on income tax, dragging millions more people into paying higher taxes.

The tax raid will help to pay for a 73bn increase in welfare spending following the abolition of the two-child benefit cap and after a revolt by Labour MPs over attempts to slash the benefits bill before the summer. Ms Reeves has also given herself bigger headroom against her borrowing rules.

A Treasury spokesperson said the chancellor made her Budget choices to cut the cost of living, cut hospital waiting lists and double headroom to cut the cost of our debt.

We take Budget security extremely seriously and believe its important to preserve a private space for Treasury/OBR policy and forecast discussions, so we welcome the OBRs confirmation that this will not become usual practice, the spokesperson added.
Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban is visiting Moscow for energy talks with Vladimir Putin, a rare step from a European leader amid Russias war in Ukraine.

The trip to Moscow is the second since last year for Orban, who is widely considered Putins closest partner among all European Union leaders. In comments to state media before departing for Moscow early Friday, Orban said the focus of his talks with Putin would be Hungarys continued access to Russian oil and gas, which have come under sanctions by the U.S. government.

Hungary remains among the only EU countries to continue importing large quantities of Russian fossil fuels, and has strongly opposed efforts by the bloc to wean its member nations off Russian energy supplies.
Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana have revealed the options under consideration for the new name of their political party, currently known as Your Party.

After months of indecision and confusion over the partys name, its members will use this weekends inaugural conference in Liverpool to vote on several options.

These include four options: Your Party, Our Party, Popular Alliance, and For The Many.

It comes after the crisis-hit party earlier this week ruled out having co-leaders, following a series of public spats between Mr Corbyn and Ms Sultana.

At this weekends conference, members will vote on a new leadership model for the party, with options including a collective leadership model or backing a single leader.

But in the longer term, Your Party could look to bring back the option of co-leaders, with a member-led review of leadership structures exploring options of deputy leadership, co-leadership and the relationship with the partys leadership in Wales and Scotland once the party has been established in each nation.

It comes after a turbulent first few months for the party, marred by internal division, with a dispute between Mr Corbyn and Ms Sultana resulting in a botched membership launch and threats of legal action.

open image in gallery Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn heads up Your Party with Zarah Sultana ( PA )

Ms Sultana complained she had been subjected to a sexist boys club after supporters were invited to officially sign up and give the party financial backing.

But Mr Corbyn described this as an unauthorised email and just hours later warned people in a statement posted on social media not to sign up via the link.

To make matters worse for the party, two of the MPs who helped to set up the outfit have now quit.

Last week, Iqbal Mohamed said in a statement that he had decided to leave Your Party and continue to serve his Dewsbury and Batley constituency as an Independent MP.

It comes after MP Adnan Hussain said earlier this month he was withdrawing from the partys steering process, citing concerns about factionalism and veiled prejudice against Muslims.

They had been among the six MPs helping to set up the party, alongside Mr Corbyn, Ms Sultana and independents Shockat Adam and Ayoub Khan.

open image in gallery Sultana complained she had been subjected to a sexist boys club ( PA )

Blackburn MP Mr Hussain said earlier this month that he had initially agreed to support the foundation of Your Party because he believed in building a political home with mass appeal and a force capable of challenging the rise of far-right rhetoric.

But in a statement published on X/Twitter, he said he had been disillusioned by persistent infighting, factional competition, and a struggle for power, position and influence rather than a shared commitment to the common good.

This weeks conference  which will include speeches from both Mr Corbyn and Ms Sultana  will also include political debates around the partys identity, including whether it should explicitly identify as socialist.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

The daughter of former South African president Jacob Zuma has resigned from parliament amid claims that she lured 17 men to fight for Russia in Ukraine.

Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla was a politician in the Umkhonto weSizwe (MK) opposition party, which is led by her father.

MK officials said on Friday that she had resigned voluntarily.

Her departure from the National Assembly and all her other public roles was effective immediately, they said.

MK party national organiser Nathi Nhleko said that reporters MK was not involved in luring the men to Russia and that Ms Zuma-Sambudla's resignation was not an admission of guilt.

However, he added that MK would help to support the men's families.

Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, left, was accused of luring men to fight in Ukraine ( AP )

"The national officials have accepted comrade Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla's decision to resign and support her efforts to ensure that these young South Africans are brought back safely to their families," he said.

Ms Zuma-Sambudla was present at the press conference but did not speak, and has not publicly responded to the allegations, which came from her half-sister, Nkosazana Bonganini Zuma-Mncube.

The South African government said this month that 17 of its citizens were stuck in Ukraine's Donbas region after being tricked into fighting for mercenary forces under the pretext of lucrative employment contracts.

It said it was working to bring them home, as well as investigating how they got there.

On Sunday, police said they would investigate Ms Zuma-Sambudla after her half-sister made a formal request for the probe into her and two other people, accusing them of being involved.

In an affidavit, Ms Zuma-Mncube claimed that Ms Zuma-Sambudla, alongside two unnamed individuals, misled the men by promising them security training in Russia, only for them to become embroiled in the conflict without their consent.

The identities of the two other alleged accomplices remain undisclosed.

More than 1,400 citizens from three dozen African countries are fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine, Kyiv's foreign minister said this month, urging countries to warn their citizens about recruitment.
The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

An American woman whose mysterious disappearance from a cruise excursion in the Caribbean sent authorities on a frantic search was finally found Friday following an eight-day search, authorities said.

Ann Evans, 55, was reported missing after she didnt return to the Holland America Line cruise ship docked in Philipsburg, Sint Maarten, on November 20, according to a missing person alert.

Following coordination between [police] and other partners, contact has been made with the individual in question, the Police Force of Sint Maarten wrote in an update Friday.

In accordance with the laws governing privacy and the protection of personal data, no additional information will be released about the individual or their circumstances, authorities added.

Evans disembarked the ship last week and took a bus to Marigot, French Saint Martin, but did not return to the bus or to the cruise ship after the excursion, the Police Force of Sint Maarten said Thursday.

Ann Evans has been found, authorities said  but it was unclear why she had disappeared ( The Government of Sint Maarten )

Through their search, the police force found that Evans had used her passport to check into a hotel on the French side of the island.

Based on information gathered during the investigation, KPSM has reason to believe that a female matching Ms. Evans description checked into a hotel on the French side of the island using her passport.

She has also reportedly been seen in the surrounding area of that establishment, the police force added.

The cruise ship departed from Fort Lauderdale, Florida on November 16 and visited several Caribbean destinations, including St. Lucia and Barbados. It was expected to return to Florida on November 28.

Police have encouraged Evans to contact her family if she sees the missing person reports in order to quickly confirm her safety.

A guest on Holland America Lines Rotterdam did not return to the ship on November 20 following a visit to Philipsburg, Sint Maarten. We notified local authorities immediately and we are working closely with them to confirm the guests whereabouts, the cruise line said in an earlier statement to The Independent.

As of Thursday, police reported on their social media page that a woman matching the guests description and using her passport checked into a hotel on the French side of the island and we are waiting further confirmation from authorities.
The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Donald Trump has told military personnel he will escalate operations against alleged Venezuelan drug traffickers very soon, as tensions between the two nations continue to grow.

During a Thanksgiving phone call with Army servicemen and women, the president went further and suggested the U.S. would take action on land as well as sea.

The United States has killed more than 80 people in military strikes on the alleged drug boats, as part of Operation Southern Spear, with the actions branded imperialist by Venezuelan officials.

open image in gallery Donald Trump has claimed that he will escalate action against alleged Venezuelan drug smugglers very soon ( AP )

In recent weeks, youve been working to deter Venezuelan drug traffickers, of which there are many, Trump said on the call. Of course, there arent too many coming in by sea anymore.

You probably noticed that people arent wanting to be delivering by sea, and well be starting to stop them by land also. The land is easier, but thats going to start very soon. We warn them: Stop sending poison to our country.

The exact measures Trump plans to use against alleged drug smugglers on land are not clear.

However, there has been a massive build-up of the United States military presence in the Caribbean in recent weeks.

open image in gallery The United States has killed over 80 people in strikes on alleged Venezuelan drug boats ( US Secretary of Defense Pete Heg )

The U.S.S. Gerald R. Ford, the most advanced aircraft carrier in the U.S. military, arrived in the Caribbean Sea last week, with the U.S.S. Winston Churchill, a destroyer-class vessel, also conducting exercises in the area.

General Dan Caine, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and President Trumps primary military adviser, also visited Puerto Rico, heightening fears of American military action against Venezuela.

Delcy Rodriguez, the Venezuelan vice-president, has accused the military build-up of being part of an effort to seize the countrys oil and gas reserves.

For nothing, without paying. They want Venezuelas gold, she said. They want Venezuelas diamonds, iron, bauxite. They want Venezuelas natural resources.

open image in gallery Venezuelan President Maduro has vowed to fight any imperialist threat or aggression ( AFP via Getty Images )

President Nicolas Maduro, who led a crackdown against his opponents after refusing to concede the 2024 Venezuelan election, has also vowed to fight any imperialist threat or aggression.

In a speech commemorating the 200th anniversary of the presentation of the Sword of Peru to independence fighter Simon Bolivar, he brandished the historical weapon to cheers from supporters.

We must be ready to defend every inch of this blessed land from imperialist threat or aggression, no matter where it comes from, he said. The homeland is sacred, the homeland must be respected.
The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Native American actress Elaine Miles, best known for her roles on Northern Exposure and in Smoke Signals, says she was detained recently by ICE agents, who reportedly told her that her tribal ID, issued in Oregon, was fake.

In a social media post, Miles claimed she was walking to a bus stop near the Redmond Bear Creek Village shopping center in Washington, to go to Target, when four masked men in ICE-labeled vests emerged from two unmarked black SUVs and demanded her ID, The Seattle Times reports.

She presented her ID from the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation in Oregon, which one agent allegedly said was fake.

Anyone can make that, another agent said, according to Miles.

Miles continued that the men, whom she feared might even be bounty hunters, refused to give their names or badge numbers as they detained her.

Indigenous actress Elaine Miles says four ICE agents recently detained her at a Redmond bus stop ( Getty Images )

When they dismissed her tribal ID as illegitimate, she pointed to the enrollment office number printed on the back and told them to call. They didnt. When she tried to call the office herself, the agents attempted, unsuccessfully, to take her phone.

At that point, a fifth agent whistled from one of the SUVs, and the group abruptly returned to their vehicles and drove off.

The Independent has contacted ICE for comment.

On November 4, KING 5 reported that ICE made recent arrests in Redmond and Issaquah.

The agencys regional director set a new goal of 30 daily arrests across Oregon, Washington, and Alaska, double the 2024 target, according to the outlet.

Miles post coincided with ICE arrests at Bear Creek Village. The incidents prompted the city council to vote to shut off Flock Safety license-plate cameras over concerns they could be used in future immigration enforcement, though theres no evidence they were used in these arrests, according to The Seattle Times.

Miles said the incident wasnt isolated within her own family. Both her son and her uncle, she said, were previously detained by ICE agents who also questioned the legitimacy of their tribal IDs before ultimately releasing them.

According to the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission, the CTUIR is made up of three tribal nations: the Umatilla, Cayuse, and Walla Walla. Together, they form a unified tribal government that continues to maintain and protect their shared cultural and political sovereignty.

In 1855, these three tribes signed a treaty with the US, ceding roughly 6.4 million acres of their ancestral homelands in what is now northeastern Oregon and southeastern Washington.

Today, the CTUIR includes several thousand enrolled citizens, with recent documentation estimating the membership at around 3,100 people. Nearly half of those members live on or near the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

The reservation is home not only to CTUIR citizens but also to other Native people from different tribes, as well as non-Native residents.
The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Dramatic footage captured the moment a construction worker who fell 30 feet down a New York City manhole was rescued by first responders.

A 35-year-old construction worker fell into an open manhole near West 170th Street in Washington Heights around 8:45 a.m. on November 20, a NYPD spokesperson told The Independent on Friday.

Bodycam footage shared by the NYPD shows Emergency Service Unit officers securing the scene before lowering at least one officer and a New York City firefighter down the manhole.

As the officer was getting ready to be lowered, someone in the video notes that the rungs on the side to help him step down had rotted away, making it more difficult to maneuver.

Video shows the first responders wearing reflective vests instructing each other on how to get the equipment down the manhole to help the worker, who had fallen 30 feet below.

open image in gallery First responders rescued a construction worker who fell 30 feet into a manhole in New York City ( @NYPDNews / X )

open image in gallery Dramatic footage showed the first responders sending an officer down to check on the man after he fell below the ground ( @NYPDNews / X )

Youre alright. Hes alright, an officer can be heard saying as the group pulls the injured construction worker, who is lying on a backboard, up to safety.

EMS rushed the man to New York Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center in stable condition, the NYPD spokesperson said.

According to the New York Daily News, the worker who fell was treated at the hospital and released.

open image in gallery The first responders strapped the construction worker to a backboard before pulling him up to safety ( @NYPDNews/X )

open image in gallery The worker was taken to the hospital in stable condition, the NYPD said ( @NYPDNews / X )

One unexpected drop. One expert rescue, the NYPD News account wrote on X, sharing footage of the daring rescue.

When a construction worker fell through a manhole cover, @NYPDSpecialops ESU secured the scene, worked with @FDNY to safely reach him, and get them medical care.
The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

A significant winter storm is set to disrupt Thanksgiving holiday travel across the majority of the United States, bringing heavy snow, rain, and bitterly cold temperatures throughout the weekend.

Winter storm warnings were issued on Friday, stretching from Montana to New York, with the National Weather Service forecasting substantial snowfall, particularly impacting the Great Lakes region.

Parts of Iowa and Illinois are expected to bear the brunt, with accumulations of six to 12 inches (15 to 30 centimetres) anticipated from Friday night through Saturday night. Despite the heavy falls, meteorologists noted that forecast conditions did not meet blizzard warning criteria, which require winds of at least 35 mph (56 kph), visibilities under a quarter mile (400 metres), and a duration exceeding three hours.

The storm, which had already brought snow to the northern Plains and Great Lakes, continued its sweep. Over a foot of snow was expected downwind of Lake Superior, Erie, and Ontario, as well as in central New York state. Dangerous snow squalls, bringing rapid bursts of heavy snow and whiteout conditions, were also predicted for the interior Northeast.

Airports are expected to see large numbers due to the holiday weekend ( Getty )

Further west, the Pacific Northwest and Rockies braced for a mix of snow and rain on Friday, though conditions were expected to ease in the Rockies and northern Plains by Saturday, shifting to the Midwest. To the south, heavy storms and potential flash flooding were forecast for the western Gulf Coast on Saturday.

Temperatures plummeted well below average across the eastern and central US. Highs on Friday were expected to be in the 20s and 30s Fahrenheit in the Midwest, 30s and 40s in New England and the Mid-Atlantic, and 40s and 50s in the Southeast. The adverse weather on Thanksgiving itself had already led to numerous vehicle crashes in western Michigan.
Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

The House of Representatives voted on three censures last week, as many as in the entire 118th Congress, prompting some Republicans and Democrats to demand a change in the rules to put a stop to a growing appetite for grandstanding.

On Monday, Washington Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez secured a rebuke of her fellow Democrat, the retiring Illinois Rep. Jesus Chuy Garcia, after accusing him of attempting to subvert the election of his successor. On Tuesday, South Carolina Rep. Ralph Norman submitted a failed motion to reprimand U.S. Virgin Islands Democratic Del. Stacey Plaskett after it emerged she had been on texting terms with the late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein in 2019.

Finally, on Thursday, Rep. Nancy Mace, also of South Carolina, was likewise unsuccessful in seeking disciplinary action against Florida Rep. Cory Mills, a fellow Republican, for a range of offenses, including alleged corruption. Millss case was ultimately referred to the House Ethics Committee for further investigation.

In the entirety of the preceding Congress - which ran from 2023 to 2025, only the Democratic representatives Adam Schiff, Rashida Tlaib and Jamaal Bowman faced censure votes, all of which occurred between June and December 2023.

No one was reprimanded in either chamber in the whole of the 2022 and 2024 calendar years, underlining how extraordinary and atypical the events of the last week have been on Capitol Hill.

open image in gallery Congress voted on three censure resolutions in one week this month while there no formal reprimands at all in the entirety of 2024. ( AP )

open image in gallery Texas Democratic Rep. Al Green was censured in March for heckling President Donald Trump during his address to a joint session of Congress ( EPA )

Censure resolutions are calls to formally reprimand a member of either chamber of Congress, the president, a federal judge or a government official, with the option to discipline representatives and senators, such as by stripping them of their committee assignments, a power granted under Article 1, Section 5 of the U.S. Constitution, which gives Congress responsibility for its own members.

The censure of non-members of Congress does not carry the same disciplinary authority. Still, it nevertheless stands as a weighty formal declaration of disapproval of the conduct of the individual in question in the view of the House and the Senate.

A notable recent example of a censure resolution in action came in March this year when the House reprimanded Texas Democratic Rep. Al Green for repeatedly heckling President Donald Trump as he addressed a joint session of Congress, with Green ignoring calls to pipe down before ultimately being forcibly removed by the sergeant-at-arms while Republicans cheered.

While that was an exceptional occurrence, the frequency with which censure resolutions have since piled up has caused Virginia Democratic Rep. Don Beyer and Nebraska Republican Rep. Don Bacon to lose patience and pitch legislation to raise the threshold for securing a reprimand vote from a simple majority to a 60-percent majority.

Beyer told The Washington Post that their proposal was amassing bipartisan support and said he submitted it because he was growing tired of the tension, the anger, the refusal to work together. He said he hopes to see a vote on it come to pass early next year.

Others have expressed concerns that the process is evolving into a tactic to tar an opponent who wastes time on the floor while also bypassing the Ethics Committee, which typically undertakes painstaking, rigorous probes into claims of misconduct against members of Congress. The panel can, however, struggle for resources and be blocked by the Department of Justice in certain instances.

Minnesota Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omar was the target of a failed recent censure push by Mace and others after comments she made accusing Republicans of exploiting the assassination of Charlie Kirk met with outrage and told the Post the process is overused and stymies civil debate.

open image in gallery MAGA Republicans attempted to formally reprimand Minnestota Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omar in September over comments she made about the killing of Charlie Kirk. ( AP )

It puts us in a really bad shape when it becomes a tool to fundraise and to get your name out there, then it loses the seriousness of why the censure was created, Omar said.

And I believe that we are seeing members who are struggling to gain attention or want attention, utilizing it.

Perhaps the most damning assessment of the situation comes from former Virginia Republican congresswoman Barbara Comstock, who said that, in the past, censures were much less common because members were expected to resign when confronted with serious allegations, but now they more likely to stand their ground and attempt to tough it out, a culture shift she blamed on President Trumps example.

Back in the day, these type of actions werent taken because there still was some sense of shame and decency by the members themselves, Comstock said.

Theyd step down because they realized it caused a lot of turmoil within their own caucus.
Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Donald Trumps niece has explained why she thinks the presidents attacks on female reporters appear to have ramped up in recent weeks.

In the most recent incident Thursday, the president lashed out at a journalist who asked him about the D.C shooting suspect, asking if she was a stupid person.

Just one day before, Mary Trump had addressed her uncles previous run-ins with female reporters on her show, Mary Trump Live.

His misogynistic attacks against reporters in particular are increasing and that means a couple of things, she said. It means that hes increasingly comfortable lodging such attacks, she continued, before reeling off a list of targeted groups. Theres no hiding it anymore.

The presidents niece also theorised that the sharp rebukes he delivers when questioned could be a sign that the pressure is getting to him in his second term.

open image in gallery Mary Trump has claimed that her uncle is clashing with female reporters more regularly because he is 'rattled' ( YouTube )

I think its also a sign that hes a little rattled, she continued. Hes also never clearly heard of the Streisand effect. When you call attention to the thing you want people to ignore, its probably a terrible idea. The Streisand effect is a phenomenon which explains how attempts to suppress information actually increases interest in that same information.

The White House hit back at Mary Trumps claims in a statement given to the Daily Beast. Mary Trump is a stone-old loser who doesnt have a clue about anything, White House Communications Director Steven Cheung said.

The Thursday incident, the latest in a series of such verbal attacks, took place after it emerged the D.C. shooting suspect had come into the country from Afghanistan under a Biden-era resettlement scheme.

The president hit back at a female reporter who challenged his suggestion Bidens administration had failed to properly vet Afghan refugees.

Are you a stupid person? he said. Because they came into on a plane along with thousands of other people that shouldnt be here, and youre just asking questions because youre a stupid person.

open image in gallery Donald Trump demanded that Bloomberg correspondent Catherine Lucey was quiet, piggy while onboard Air Force One ( Getty )

On Wednesday, Trump took aim at veteran White House reporter Katie Rogers over a New York Times report about his activity in office. The president accused her of being assigned to only write bad things about him and called Rogers a third rate reporter who is ugly, both inside and out.

In a statement addressing Trumps comments, The NYT said in a statement: Expert and thorough reporters like Katie Rogers exemplify how an independent and free press helps the American people better understand their government and its leaders.

Trump was involved in two further incidents earlier in November.

On Tuesday November 18, the president berated ABC News chief White House correspondent Mary Bruce for being a terrible person and a terrible reporter, during a state visit from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Bruce had asked questions about the Trump Organizations business dealings in Saudi Arabia, and about the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018.

Trump described her questions as horrible and insubordinate, before calling ABCs license to be revoked and describing the media outlet as fake news.

open image in gallery Trump criticised ABC News chief White House correspondent Mary Bruce (pictured) for asking an insubordinate question ( Getty )

Just days earlier, Trump sparked widespread outrage when he told Bloombergs White House correspondent, Catherine Lucey to be quiet, piggy on Air Force One.

Lucey has been trying to ask Trump about the Epstein files but only managed to finish half of her follow-up question before the president cut her off.

Responding to criticism of the comment, the White House claimed the reporter had behaved in an inappropriate and unprofessional way, adding If youre going to give it, you have to be able to take.

Accusations of misogyny have been levied against Trump ever since he first launched his campaign to become president in 2016.

Much of the controversy surrounding him at the time centered around a leaked Access Hollywood recording from 2005 about grabbing women. He claimed the comments were locker room talk while branding his then-opponent Hillary Clinton a nasty woman.

During a presidential debate with Clinton in 2016, Trump insisted: Nobody has more respect for women than I do. Nobody.

The Independent has approached the White House for comment.
Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Melania Trump announced Friday that she has started her own production company, Muse Films, as a controversial $40 million Amazon documentary about the first lady is set to be released next year.

PRESENTING: MUSE FILMS My new production company. MELANIA, the film, exclusively in theaters worldwide on January 30th, 2026, she posted on X.

The first lady also shared a 10-second clip, showcasing the company's sleek black and silver M logo, set to a soaring soundtrack.

The documentary, Melania, is set to offer a behind-the-scenes look at the days leading up to her husband Donald Trumps second inauguration.

Amazon reportedly paid $40 million to license the film. It was not immediately clear what role Muse Films would play in the process.

open image in gallery Melania Trump announced Friday that she has created her own production company, Muse Films, and showed off the companys logo on X ( PA )

The film will be directed by the disgraced director Brett Ratner, who withdrew from Hollywood in 2018 amid the #MeToo movement after several women accused him of sexual misconduct. Ratner has denied allegations of sexual misconduct and harassment.

The price tag for the documentary was first reported by Puck News earlier this year. Three people familiar with the deal said that the $40 million deal includes the documentary, and a two-to-three-episode follow-up docuseries about the first ladys life as she splits her time between New York, Florida and Washington, D.C.

Melania is serving as an executive producer on the documentary. I had an idea to make a movie, to make a film, about my life, Melania told Fox & Friends co-host, Ainsley Earhardt, in January.

open image in gallery Filming for the documentary about the first lady began filming last December, after President Trump won the 2024 election ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

My life is incredible. Its incredibly busy, and I told my agent, you know, I have this idea, so please, you know, go out and make a deal for me, she added.

While Melania often avoids the political spotlight, the biographical film has promised viewers a behind-the-scenes look at her life. Viewers hoping to get a peek at President Trump and their son, Barron, can expect brief appearances, according to reports.

Filming for Melania began last December, about a month after Trump was elected.

It remains to be seen how far-reaching the access will be, given that the first lady teased a similar level of transparency in her self-titled memoir that actually revealed very little about her personal life.

open image in gallery The $40 million deal for the documentary was hammered out just before Trumps inauguration, which was attended by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and his wife Lauren Sanchez

The deal between Melania Trump and Amazon was hammered out late last year, just before Trumps inauguration.

Around that time, Bezos announced that Amazon would donate $1 million to Trumps inaugural fund. Bezos and his wife, Lauren Sanchez, later attended the presidents inauguration.

The documentary Melania is set to be released exclusively in theaters on January 30, 2026. It was not immediately clear when the documentary would be added to Amazon for streaming.
Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Georgia congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene will be eligible for her congressional pension after she steps down in January, by a matter of days.

The Republican firebrand announced last week that she would prematurely exit her job as the House representative for Georgias 14th congressional district.

I will be resigning from office with my last day being January 5, 2026, she wrote at the end of a four-page statement.

According to the National Taxpayers Union, members of Congress qualify for a congressional pension if they have served five full years in Congress.

Greene arrived in Congress on January 3, 2021, meaning that she will be just over the five-year minimum when she leaves.

open image in gallery Rep. Marjorie Taylor-Greene, R-Ga., center, will resign from Congress on January 5, 2026. ( AFP via Getty Images )

This does not mean that Greene, 51, would receive her pension immediately. Members of Congress are eligible for their pensions once they hit the age of 62.

The annual congressional salary is $174,000 and members of Congress receive 1 percent of their salary annually as part of their pension. If a member has 20 years of service, and serves until the age of 62, they receive 1.1 percent of their salary as a pension.

According to the NTU, this would make Greene eligible for a pension of $8,717 a year. And if you take into consideration the average lifespan of an American woman, and tacking on an annual 2 percent cost-of-living adjustment, Greene could receive more than $265,000 in pension benefits overall, NTU reported.

By contrast, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who has served in Congress since 1987, will be eligible for a pension of $108,800 annually.

But the pension pot would appear to be a drop in the bucket for Greenes net worth.

According to Quiver Qualitative, which tracks financial transactions from members of Congress, Greene has a net worth of roughly $25.1 million. She also owns stocks in major companies like Meta, Googles parent company Alphabet, Amazon and Tesla.

open image in gallery Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene will sit out of the race to find her replacement, refusing to endorse any candidate ahead of Georgias special election ( AFP/Getty )

In recent years, members of Congress from both parties, ranging from Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) to Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), have pushed to ban members of Congress and their spouses from owning stocks.

Under the Federal Employees Retirement System, members of Congress pay into their retirement plans like normal workers do, according to the NTU. Members of Congress can also access a Thift Savings Plan that allows them to supplement their retirement accounts with additional savings.

Greene announced that she would resign from Congress days after legislation she supported to release files related to Jeffrey Epstein passed almost unanimously through the House of Representatives.

Greene joined two other Republicansher occasional rivals Reps. Nancy Mace of South Carolina and Lauren Boebert of Coloradoto sign a discharge petition by Reps. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) and Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) to force a vote on the files after House Speaker Mike Johnson opposed it. The discharge petition also set her on a collision course with close ally President Donald Trump, who un-endorsed her.

Greene also criticized Republicans like Johnson for failing to come up with a plan to extend enhanced tax credits for the Affordable Care Acts health insurance marketplace during the government shutdown.

Greene said she would sit out and not make any endorsement for a special election to replace her.
Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Rep. Nancy Mace and a chorus of other Republicans called for the man accused of shooting two members of the West Virginia National Guard, killing one of them, to be executed.

Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan National, was wounded in the shooting when National Guard troops returned fire. He was arrested at the scene and is being treated in a D.C.-area hospital.

On Friday morning, U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro said Lakanwal will face a charge of first-degree murder over the death of West Virginia service member Sarah Beckstrom, 20. Pirro had announced a day earlier that the Department of Justice would charge him with assault with intent to kill while armed and three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence.

The other National Guardsmen wounded in the shooting, 24-year-old Andrew Wolfe, remains in critical condition.

Lakanwal came to the United States in 2021 during Operation Allies Welcome, which occurred after the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. CIA Director John Ratcliffe said Lakanwal was a member of a partner force in Kandahar, which ended shortly following the chaotic evacuation.

open image in gallery Nancy Mace said the culprit in the shooting of two National Guard soldiers should be executed ( Getty Images )

Mace appeared on Fox News on Thanksgiving day to respond to a report from Foxs chief national security correspondent, Jennifer Griffin, saying that the inspector generals office found there were no systemic vetting failures for people leaving Afghanistan.

But the South Carolina Republican said the House Oversight Committee and Armed Services Committee had heard otherwise.

I believe that the vetting was very loose, she told anchor Kevin Corke. We know on our southern border during the Biden administration, we had a number  hundreds  of potential terrorists that came across the southern border into the United States. We know that there are terrorist cells all across the country waiting to act.

open image in gallery Sarah Beckstrom died from her wounds, while Andrew Wolfe remains critically injured in the hospital ( U.S. Attorneys Office )

In addition, she called for the execution of the suspect and said she hoped the Department of Justice would push for the death penalty.

I hope that the DOJ and the judge in this case will put this terrorist down, she said. He doesnt deserve to live.

Mace is currently running for governor of her home state and has undergone a transformation from a Republican who occasionally criticized President Donald Trump and worked with Democrats to a hardline MAGA Republican.

Most recently, she joined Reps. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia and Lauren Boebert of Colorado to co-sign a discharge petition by Reps. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) and Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) to release files related to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

open image in gallery Rahmanullah Lakanwal was wounded when National Guard troops fired back at him and is currently being treated in a D.C.-area hospital ( US Attorney's Office )

Mace is not the only Republican calling for execution.

I agree with the district attorney, we should be pressing the ultimate charges, the death penalty for someone who has attacked our National Guard on the streets of Washington, DC, Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) told Fox & Friends.

Beckstrom and Wolfe were in Washington as part of Trumps deployment of the National Guard to the nations capital as a means to clamp down on crime.

The shooting happened around 2:15 pm on Wednesday around the Farragut West Metro Station near Lafayette Square, a few blocks away from the White House.
Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

The man accused of gunning down two National Guard troops in Washington, D.C., will face a charge of first-degree murder following the death of West Virginia service member Sarah Beckstrom.

The upgraded charge against Rahmanullah Lakanwal was first announced by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro on Fox & Friends Friday morning.

There are certainly many more charges to come, she said.

Lakanwal was wounded when National Guardsmen returned fire and is being treated in a D.C.-area hospital.

Pirro had announced a day earlier that the Department of Justice would charge Lakanwal with assault with intent to kill while armed and three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence.

open image in gallery Rahmanullah Lakanwal is accused of killing National Guard service member Sarah Beckstrom ( U.S. Attorney's Office )

We are hoping that the more information we can get and the more investigations going on  the more we will find out about what actually happened, Pirro said Friday.

Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, was taken into custody shortly after two National Guard members were shot roughly two blocks from the White House on Wednesday afternoon.

President Donald Trump announced the death of 20-year-old Beckstrom Thursday night. A second guardsman, 24-year-old Andrew Wolfe, remains in critical condition.

open image in gallery Lakanwal will face a charge of first-degree murder as well as assault and firearms charges, according to U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro, who said additional charges are forthcoming ( REUTERS )

Federal law enforcement officials have accused Lakanwal of shooting the service members in an ambush that is being investigated as an act of terrorism.

It was a crime against our entire nation, Trump said in remarks Wednesday night. It was a crime against humanity.

open image in gallery National Guard service member Sarah Beckstrom, right, has died following a shooting in DC that also critically injured Guardsman Andrew Wolfe, left ( U.S. Attorney's Office )

Lakanwal is believed to have arrived in the United States in 2021 during Joe Bidens administration and the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. He applied for asylum in 2024 and was granted asylum in April 2025 under the Trump administration.

He had previously worked with the U.S. government, including the CIA, as a member of a partner force in Kandahar, according to CIA Director John Ratcliffe.

Trump has used the shooting to escalate his attacks on immigration and the Biden administrations withdrawal from Afghanistan, casting the violence in D.C. as evidence of the single greatest national security threat facing our nation.

The administration will reexamine every single alien from Afghanistan who has entered our country under Biden and we must take all necessary measures to ensure the removal of any alien from any country who does not belong here or add benefit to our country, the president said.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services also announced an immediate and indefinite halt to the processing of all immigration requests relating to Afghan nationals pending a review of security and vetting protocols.

Lakanwa was believed to have been living in Bellingham, Washington with his wife and five children and working as a delivery driver, according to officials.

Shots were fired in Washington around 2:15 p.m. Wednesday near the Farragut West Metro Station, a short distance from Lafayette Square near the White House.

The two wounded soldiers were part of a high-visibility patrol when they encountered the suspect, who rounded a corner, raised his arm and fired at them with a .357 revolver, according to Jeffery Carroll, executive assistant chief of D.C.s Metropolitan Police Department.

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has described the shooting as a targeted attack. Law enforcement officials have not publicly identified a motive for the attack.
Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Governor Tim Walz has hit back at Donald Trump after the president used a mental health slur against him in a Thanksgiving rant.

Trumps post began by telling Americans to have a happy Thanksgiving but then segued into a series of attacks, against the politically correct, migrants, refugees and eventually Walz.

The president using a slur that criticised the former Democratic vice-presidential candidates decision-making abilities. Tim Walz, does nothing, either through fear, incompetence, or both, he added, before he turned his attention to frequent MAGA target Ilhan Omar.

open image in gallery Minnesota Governor Tim Walz hit back at Trump with just four words ( Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images )

Walz turned the attention back to Trumps own mental acuity with his brief clap-back.

Posting a screenshot of Trumps rant to his X account, Kamala Harris former running mate responding with release the MRI results in reference to the presidents recent test.

Earlier in November, Trump said he received a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) exam as part of his recent physical, saying it was very standard.

Getting an MRI is very standard. What, you think I shouldnt have it? Other people get it  I had an MRI. The doctor said it was the best result he has ever seen as a doctor, Trump said to reporters at the time.

Trump has been dogged with questions about his health since his return to office earlier this year. Pictures of the 79 year-old have appeared show bruising on the back of his hand and he was checked for mild swelling in his legs during the summer.

open image in gallery Donald Trump pardoning a turkey before Thanksgiving ( AFP/Getty )

The president insists he is a picture of health, a claim he repeated in a Truth Social post this week.

There will be a day when I run low on Energy, it happens to everyone, but with a PERFECT PHYSICAL EXAM AND A COMPREHENSIVE COGNITIVE TEST (That was aced) JUST RECENTLY TAKEN, it certainly is not now! Trump wrote.

Trumps rant against Walz is not the first time he has used such slurs against people. He infamously mocked Pulitzer prize winning journalist Serge Kovaleski, who suffers from arthrogryposis, a condition that affects the movement of joints and is noticeable in his right arm and hand.

At a 2015 rally before the 2016 election, Trump called Kovaleski a nice reporter before saying the poor guy, you gotta see this guy before he began to make an impression of Kovaleski, waving his arms around.
Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

In an angry social media post, President Donald Trump said that he would terminate every document his predecessor Joe Biden signed with an autopen and that if Biden lied about using one, he would be charged with perjury.

The threats are just the latest examples of Trump going after his perceived political enemies using the power of the federal government to intimidate his political opponents.

Any document signed by Sleepy Joe Biden with the Autopen, which was approximately 92% of them, is hereby terminated, and of no further force or effect, Trump said on Truth Social. The Autopen is not allowed to be used if approval is not specifically given by the President of the United States.

I am hereby cancelling all Executive Orders, and anything else that was not directly signed by Crooked Joe Biden, because the people who operated the Autopen did so illegally. Joe Biden was not involved in the Autopen process and, if he says he was, he will be brought up on charges of perjury, Trump said.

Bidens use of an autopen has become a weapon used by Republicans, who have argued that the staff of the previous administration used the autopen to sign executive orders and legislation when Biden, 82 at the time he left office, was supposedly too senile. House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.) has said, without providing evidence, that Bidens cognitive decline meant that he did not know about the pardons he signed.

open image in gallery President Donald Trump said he would cancel all documents Joe Biden signed with an autopen. ( Getty Images )

In addition, the Trump White House has used a portrait of an autopen instead of one of Biden as part of its presidential Wall of Fame.

The president said that Radical Left Lunatics took the presidency from Biden and therefore, documents he signed were null and void.

It is not entirely clear how the Trump administration would determine which documents his predecessor signed with an autopen and how it could affect everything from legislation to pardons to executive orders.

The move would also open up questions as to the validity of documents Trump used an autopen to sign. The President is 79 years old and has shown signs of declining health, which he has aggressively denied.

Bidens former aides have denied that the presidents staff made decisions on his behalf.

open image in gallery Trump put a picture of an autopen in place of Bidens portrait at the White House ( Getty )

Trumps announcement comes as he made a flurry of posts throughout the Thanksgiving holiday, including calling Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, who ran for vice president with Kamala Harris last year, retarded and another post comparing his plan for a 50-year mortgage to Franklin Roosevelt creating a 30-year mortgage.

He has also made a posted furiously about the shooting in Washington, DC near the White House, which killed West Virginia National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom and left another West Virginia guard member, Andrew Wolfe, in critical condition.

In addition, the FBI and the Department of Justice want to interview Democratic members of Congress who posted a video reminding members of the military that they must refuse to obey illegal orders.

Trump called the video SEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR FROM TRAITORS and said it was punishable by death. In addition, the Pentagon threatened to court martial Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), a Navy veteran and one of the Democrats in the video.

But the president has seen mixed success with his attempts to target his political opponents legally.

Earlier this week, a federal judge tossed out high-profile criminal cases against New York Attorney General Letitia James and former FBI Director James Comey.
Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

President Donald Trump has vowed to permanently pause migration from all third world countries after a National Guard member was killed in an attack near the White House.

The presidents comments are a further escalation of immigration measures ordered by Trump since two soldiers were shot Wednesday, one of whom remains in hospital. Investigators believe an Afghan national was behind the attack.

I will permanently pause migration from all third world countries to allow the U.S. system to fully recover, terminate all of the millions of Biden illegal admissions, including those signed by Sleepy Joe Bidens autopen, and remove anyone who is not a net asset to the United States, Trump said on his social media platform, Truth Social.

open image in gallery The US president has already adopted an aggressive immigration agenda ( Reuters )

The president said he would end all federal benefits and subsidies for non-citizens, adding he would denaturalize migrants who undermine domestic tranquility and deport any foreign national deemed a public charge, security risk, or non-compatible with Western civilization.

He did not provide any details on what he meant by the apparently contradictory permanently pause or which countries would face migration bans.

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has already indefinitely suspended all immigration requests involving Afghan nationals after the attack, which is believed to have been carried out by Rahmanullah Lakanwal. The 29-year-old Afghan national resided in Washington state and had no known criminal history.

open image in gallery Police at the scene of the shooting near the White House, Washington, D.C. ( Mike Ryan )

Sarah Beckstrom, 20, was injured in the ambush and later died. Fellow Guardsman Andrew Wolfe, 24, was fighting for his life, Trump said.

The president has pursued an aggressive immigration agenda since his return to the White House, and, in June, he announced a travel ban on immigrants from 19 countries, including Afghanistan.

Officials from the Department of Homeland Security said Trump has ordered a widespread review of asylum cases approved under Bidens administration and Green Cards issued to citizens of 19 countries.

open image in gallery Sarah Beckstrom, 20, has died from her injuries in the shooting ( Reuters )

In a second Truth Social post, Trump claimed that hundreds of thousands of people poured into the U.S. totally unvetted and unchecked, during what he described as the horrendous airlift from Afghanistan.

He said his administration's goals are aimed at significantly reducing illegal and disruptive populations, suggesting that measures would be taken to achieve this outcome, adding that Only REVERSE MIGRATION can fully cure this situation.

CIA Director John Ratcliffe told Fox News that Lakanwal worked with the CIA while in Afghanistan as a member of a partner force in Kandahar, which ended shortly following the chaotic evacuation.
Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

The luxury of peace and quiet has been taken from President Donald Trumps millionaire and billionaire neighbors after the Secret Service requested the Federal Aviation Administration alter flight routes in Palm Beach, a new report claims.

Its thundering, Nancy Pullum, who lives in the El Cid neighborhood of West Palm Beach, told the Washington Post report.

Pullum, who is also chair of the Citizens Committee on Airport Noise, was complaining about the planes that have been flying over her home, just a few blocks north of Trumps Mar-a-Lago resort, following the new flight rules.

Its as if theyre accelerating when theyre right over me. You go take your trash out to your garbage can, and you realize theres a plane right over your head, and you can see the belly of it, Pullum said.

The Secret Service explained to The Independent that they requested the Federal Aviation Administration to institute additional temporary flight restrictions over Mar-a-Lago to ensure the highest levels of safety and security for the President.

open image in gallery Trump hosted a lavish Halloween party at Mar-a-Lago this year. ( REUTERS )

But the new flight paths will remain in place even when Trump isnt at his Florida home, which is located just over a 10-minute drive southeast of Palm Beach International Airport. During his first term, planes over Mar-a-Lago were banned just when Trump was in town.

The Secret Service did not explain its rationale for having a no-fly zone when the president is in Washington or elsewhere. Pullum claimed that literally nobody knew about the changes before they happened.

We recognize that these changes could have an impact on the public and appreciate the Palm Beach communitys understanding as we work to keep the President safe, the Secret Service added.

Most outgoing planes from the Palm Beach airport are now flying north of Trumps home after the flight rules were changed last month, perThe Post.

Trump has long sought to change the flight patters over his mansion, which have been in place for more than 70 years, according to the report. Before becoming president for the first time in 2017, Trump filed three lawsuits regarding plane noise over his Mar-a-Lago home, which he purchased in 1985 for $8 million, per The Post. All three lawsuits were dropped.

The new flight restrictions will finally do just that. The Secret Service said the new rules will continue at least until next October.

open image in gallery The new flight paths will remain in place even when Trump isnt at his Mar-a-Lago home ( Giorgio Viera/AFP via Getty Images )

Trump is known to spend a lot of time at his Palm Beach home, which also doubles as a social club from Halloween to Mothers Day in May. He visited Mar-a-Lago about 145 times in his first presidential term and more than a dozen times in the past ten or so months since taking office for the second time. He just spent Thanksgiving with first lady Melania Trump at the club.

Palm Beach County Commissioner Gregg Weiss has also spoken out about the new flight paths.

We want to do everything to make sure we protect our president, and we understand that when hes there, this is what needs to happen, he said in The Post report. But when hes not there, why? Whats the concern at that point?

open image in gallery Trump just spent Thanksgiving with first lady Melania Trump at his Florida club ( Andrew Caballero-Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images )

One resident said at a citizens noise committee meeting earlier this month, This is an opportunity for [Trump] to seize what hes really wanted to do for a very long time.

This could be stretched for three years. It could be forever, the resident warned.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Virginia Giuffres ex-husband might add his name to the list of those fighting over her estate, lawyers said in an Australian court.

Ms Giuffre was one of paedophile financier Jeffrey Epsteins most prominent accusers and also alleged she was abused by the then-Prince Andrew, now Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, while a minor.

Andrew has always denied any wrongdoing, but settled a lawsuit with Ms Giuffre, reportedly for about 10m, in 2022.

Robert Giuffre, an Australian martial arts instructor, was married to Virginia from 2002 until shortly before her death by suicide in April, at the age of 41.

He could now join as a party seeking access to the estate, alongside the former couple's sons Noah and Christian, their lawyer Jon Patty told the Supreme Court of Western Australia on Friday.

Court filings show that the two sons applied to manage the estate, but were opposed by Virginia's former lawyer Karrie Louden and former carer Cheryl Myers.

open image in gallery Giuffre gained global attention with her allegations that she was trafficked to Andrew ( Crime+Investigation )

Mr Giuffre could also join as guardian to their young daughter, Mr Patty said in a short case management hearing.

Mr Patty added that an independent party could be appointed to represent the daughter to prevent a conflict of interest.

The court did not allow publication of the daughters name because she is a child.

No representative for Mr Giuffre was present in court and he could not immediately be reached.

Ms Giuffre gained global attention with her allegations that she was trafficked to Andrew.

He was stripped of his titles this year after the release of Ms Giuffres posthumous memoir, which detailed new allegations against the 65-year-old.

open image in gallery The then-Duke of York with Giuffre and Ghislaine Maxwell ( US Department of Justice )

Ms Giuffre was involved in at least four lawsuits when she died, according to court filings. But she did not have a valid will, so the court appointed an administrator to oversee her estate, effectively reopening the cases.

At the hearing, registrar Danielle Davies heard the list of people vying for access to Ms Giuffres estate might grow.

A $10m defamation claim filed in 2021 by a person associated with Epstein is among the pending lawsuits.

Epstein was jailed in 2008 for child sex offences and died by suicide in prison in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex abuse charges.

Australian court filings show there are also contests over the rights to Ms Giuffres memoir and inheritance claims.

Ms Davies, the registrar, gave the parties until Monday to submit more documents outlining their claims and said a date for the next case management hearing would be set in 2026.
For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

About 450kg of French snails worth 90,000 have been stolen from a farm in the Champagne region of France.

Producer Jean-Mathieu Dauvergne said the fresh and frozen snails were taken from LEscargot des Grands between Sunday night and Monday morning.

In a Facebook post explaining the sizeable theft, Dauvergne said the snails were enough for 10,000 meals and the theft was a very tough blow.

This is definitely not the kind of post we thought we'd write as the holidays approach. We've been robbed and our fresh and frozen snails stash has been robbed, the post stated.

The coming weeks are usually the most important for us... so this is a shock, a misunderstanding, and a real blow to the entire team. We are trying our best to restock our stocks to satisfy you for the holidays.

Most of the snails were intended for Christmas deliveries to fine restaurants such as the Michelin-starred Domaine les Crayeres in Reims, which serves them in a puff-pastry dish.

Dauvergne told Le Parisien he was in a state of shock when he discovered the snails had been taken.

They cut the fence, broke down the door with a crowbar, and smashed the light detectors, he explained. Then they helped themselves to things in my cold storage rooms.

Its very surprising because they stole raw materials: 450 kg of snail meat. Its incredible to have stolen such a quantity. It must be the work of a very organized network.

There are 271 snail farms in France and Dauvergne said the high profile of his farm meant it made them a target.

We are starting to get known and thats certainly what attracted the crooks, he told Le Parisien.

Epernay police officer, Commander Remi Dubois, said the snails were worth almost as much as champagne and believed the thieves were likely experienced and professional.

The French consume about 14,300 tonnes of snails a year but 95 per cent are imported , according to the chambers of Agriculture.

The 450kg of missing mollusks were the farms entire annual production and has left them trying to find alternate ways to fulfill their orders for Christmas.

Dauvergne has mainly has been purchasing snails from other producers, but the reputation of his farm is so high that some restaurants said they would sooner take the item of the menu than sell a substitute.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

The presidential palace in Kyiv is roiling. Volodymyr Zelenskys chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, has resigned as his office and home were raided by anti-corruption police and detectives on the trail of a 100m fraud.

The racket, which has already claimed the political heads of two ministers and sent a former business partner and close friend of Zelensky into exile and on the run outside the war-torn nation, is a strategic blow.

It proves, as if it were needed, how wide and deep and how cynical corruption goes. The missing funds were allegedly creamed off by Zelenskys cronies from contacts to fix and defend the Ukrainian energy sector, which has been under sustained Russian attacks for more than two years.

It comes as winter takes its icy grip on the country. It comes as people may be forced out of Ukraine not by war, but by cold, and it comes as Russia has made small gains on the eastern front.

open image in gallery Andriy Yermak, left, and US secretary of state Marco Rubio talk to the press as their consultations continue earlier this week ( Keystone/Martial Trezzini )

Zelenskys administration has been under attack by Russian trolls as illegitimate and corrupt. The Ukrainian president won landslide elections, and so did his party, so the former is an outright lie.

The latter issue cannot be argued. Money for war has been stolen by a group of powerful people. Their actions may have already resulted in Ukrainian deaths. Theyd be lucky to get off a treason rap.

But they have been arrested. They are or will be charged, and tried, sentenced and subjected to the full force of public law in Ukraine and were caught by a body specifically set up after Russias 2014 invasion to go after crooks in the system.

In short, the imperfect system appears to have worked. Ukraines government is functioning as it should.

Which is more than one can say for Russia where this kind of operation would only be possible if Putin had ordered it. Zelensky has no legal say over the anti-corruption police.

This is a very bad moment for Zelensky and for Ukraine. The departure of Yermak, who has taken the lead in most of the recent negotiations to get a ceasefire or even a peace deal, is a disaster for him.

Given that so many of the characters in the sordid drama of Operation Midas, as the probe is codenamed, are very close to Zelensky will imperil his standing at home and his status abroad.

open image in gallery Volodymyr Zelensky and head of presidential office Andriy Yermak walk, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in January ( Reuters )

Yermaks departure will warm the coldest hearts in the Kremlin. In Washington the strongly pro-Putin administration of Donald Trump will be certain to join Moscows efforts to undermine the legitimacy of Ukraines president.

Trump has, just like Putin, repeatedly demanded that Zelensky must seek re-election even though he is a wartime leader and no election can be legally held until peace has been achieved. Trump has demanded that he cede territory to Russia  he cannot do that legally either.

Putin meanwhile, says Zelenskys government is illegal. It isnt by any definition and this is a lie but its one that will suit the White Houses pro-Kremlin staff and their supreme leader.

But, as every Ukrainian will say, Zelensky is not Ukraine and Ukraine is not Zelensky. If he left office another leader would emerge  technically the speaker in the parliament is next in line.

Zelensky has been a great ambassador but theres no blind personality cult in Ukraine around him. Ukrainians have always been nonplussed by the fascination the outside world holds for their wartime leader.

Ukraine, unlike Russia, is not a one-man state. But that fascination can, and will, be weaponised against Kyiv.

Theres now blood in Ukraines water and the Kremlin can smell it.
For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Dublin City Council has opted against removing Irish tricolour flags from the city, citing potential risks amid a heated debate over immigration and national identity.

The flags have become a contentious symbol, dividing communities and serving as a flashpoint in wider discussions about immigration.

While no specific group has claimed responsibility for hanging them, far-right activists have emerged as their most vocal defenders.

In a statement released on Friday, the council said: "Dublin City Council has engaged with stakeholders and reviewed the factors and risks associated with the ongoing issue. Following this, the Council has concluded that removing such flags at this time would be counterproductive."

Instead of removal, the council plans to "take a positive and proactive approach", working with local communities and civic partners to "promote a deeper understanding of the Irish flag".

When pressed for further details on why the removal would be counterproductive, a council spokesperson declined to elaborate, stating they had "nothing to add to its statement".

open image in gallery An Irish flag flutters in the North Strand area of Dublin ( REUTERS )

One councillor, Janet Horner of the Green Party, said in October that there was "big tension" in the council between those who wanted the flags removed and those who want to avoid confrontation.

The Irish Times reported on Friday that some flags had been recently taken down by a group of anti-racism activists.

Supporters have said the flags, which are informally attached to lamp-posts without permission, are an expression of patriotism.

They mirror a similar campaign taking place across England.

open image in gallery The use of the flags has sparked a fierce debate across Ireland ( REUTERS )

Opponents say they are designed to intimidate and to mark neighbourhoods as being for non-immigrants only.

Ireland, historically a country of emigration driven by poverty, has generally become more prosperous this century and seen a particularly sharp rise in immigration in recent years.

Anti-immigrant activists helped trigger large-scale rioting in Dublin in 2023 and clashed with police outside a building housing asylum seekers on the outskirts of the city in October.

The government introduced measures to tighten immigration rules this week, which the justice minister said were aimed at slowing a "worryingly" high rate of population growth.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

A man arrested by French police earlier this week is thought to be the fourth member of the group that stole France's crown jewels in a heist from the Louvre Museum, the Paris prosecutor said Friday.

It means all members of the group who were involved in the robbery are now believed to be in custody.

The 39-year-old male who was arrested has six previous convictions, prosecutor Laure Beccuau said.

He has now been handed preliminary charges of robbery by an organized gang, punishable by 15 years imprisonment, and criminal conspiracy, which can carry a 10-year sentence if he is convicted for his suspected role in the Oct. 19 theft at the world's most-visited museum.

The robbery gang's haul of loot was worth an estimated 88 million euros ($102 million)  a monetary value that didn't include their huge historical value to France.

The thieves took less than eight minutes to force their way into the museum and steal the jewels ( AP Photo/Emma Da Silva )

The prosecutor's statement didn't say what role, exactly, the man is thought to have played in the daylight heist, carried out with angle grinders, a freight lift and subterfuge, with robbers dressed as workers in bright vests.

The robbery is believed to have been the work of a four-person team  with two people breaking into the museum's Apollo Gallery where the jewels were displayed and then being whisked away on motorbikes by two associates who waited outside.

The haul hasn't been recovered. It includes a diamond-and-emerald necklace Napoleon gave to Empress Marie-Louise, jewels tied to 19th-century Queens Marie-Amalie and Hortense, and a pearl-and-diamond tiara belonging to Napoleon III's wife, Empress Eugenie.

The robbery has focused attention on security at the Louvre, the world's most-visited museum.

The thieves took less than eight minutes to force their way into the museum and leave, using a freight lift to reach the building's window. Footage from museum cameras showed that the two who broke into the ornate Apollo Gallery used grinders to cut into jewelry display cases.

The emerald-set imperial crown of Empress Eugenie, containing more than 1,300 diamonds, was later found outside the museum.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Pope Leo XIV began his first full day in Turkey with an enthusiastic reception from the nation's small Catholic community.

Cheers of "Papa Leo" and "Viva il Papa" greeted him at Istanbuls Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, marking the start of a visit aimed at bolstering Christians globally and pursuing centuries-old unity.

His Holiness met with Turkish Catholic clergy and nuns before addressing the central purpose of his trip.

He is set to commemorate the 1,700th anniversary of a pivotal moment in Christian history: the 325 AD gathering of bishops that formulated the Nicaean Creed, a foundational statement of faith still recited by millions.

The Nicaean Creed holds significant ecumenical importance, accepted by Catholic, Orthodox, and most historic Protestant denominations.

Despite later doctrinal schisms, Nicaea remains a crucial point of consensus and the most universally embraced creed within Christendom.

open image in gallery Pope Leo XIV arrives for a meeting with the clergy at the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, in Istanbul ( Associated Press )

As a result, celebrating its foundations is an important marker in the centuries-old quest to unite all Christians.

The anniversary commemoration will take place in Iznik, site of the Council of Nicaea gathering, about 150 kilometers (93 miles) from Istanbul. Presiding with Leo will be Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, the spiritual leader of the world's Orthodox Christians.

Leo arrived in Turkey on Thursday, emphasising a message of peace as he met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

His Holiness will travel to Lebanon where he will try to boost a long-suffering Christian community as well as Lebanese of all faiths who are still demanding justice over the 2020 Beirut port blast.

On his last day on 2 December, he will spend time in silent prayer at the site of the 4 August, 2020, Beirut port blast.

The explosion tore through the Lebanese capital, killing at least 218 people, wounding more than 6,000 and devastating large swaths of Beirut. Sparked when hundreds of tons of ammonium nitrate detonated in a warehouse, the blast caused billions of dollars in damage.

open image in gallery The Faithful gather, waiting for the departure of Pope Leo XIV from the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, following a meeting with members of the clergy and lay people ( Getty Images )

Lebanese citizens were enraged by the blast, which appeared to be the result of government negligence, coming on top of an economic crisis spurred by decades of corruption and financial crimes.

But an investigation has repeatedly stalled, and five years on, no official has been convicted.

There are hopes among Lebanese that Leo will demand accountability from Lebanons political class, and insist that there can be no peace without truth and justice.

Leo will not visit Lebanons south, battered by last years war between Israel and the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah and the site of intensified Israeli strikes in recent weeks. Christians groups in southern Lebanon had lobbied for the pope to visit the area and circulated a new petition just this week.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

When Olena Horlova leaves home or drives through town outside the southern Ukrainian city of Kherson, she fears that she's a target. She believes that Russian drones could be waiting on a rooftop, along the road or aiming for her car.

To protect herself and her two daughters, the girls stay indoors, and she stays alert  sometimes returning home at night along dark roads without headlights so as not to be seen.

After living through the occupation, refusing to cooperate with Russian forces and hiding from them, Horlova, like so many other residents, found that even after her town was liberated in 2022, the ordeal didn't end.

Kherson was among the first places where Russian forces began using short-range, first-person view, or FPV, drones against civilians. The drones are equipped with livestreaming cameras that let operators see and select their targets in real time. The tactic later spread more than 300 kilometers (185 miles) along the right bank of the Dnipro River, across the Dnipropetrovsk, Kherson and Mykolaiv regions.

open image in gallery Russia Ukraine War Civilian Targets ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

The United Nations' Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine says the attacks leave little doubt about their intent. In an October report, the commission said that the attacks have repeatedly killed and wounded civilians, destroyed homes and forced thousands to flee, concluding that they amount to the crimes against humanity of murder and forcible transfer.

We live with the hope that one day this will finally end, Horlova said, her voice trembling. What matters for us is a cease-fire, or for the front line to be pushed further away. Then it would be easier for us.

Hunting those who survived

Horlova lives in Komyshany, a village just outside Kherson and only 4 kilometers (2 miles) from the Dnipro River, where the level of intense attacks has remained the same, despite Ukrainian forces retaking the city from Russian occupation in November 2022  about nine months after Russia launched its full-scale invasion on February 24 of that year.

open image in gallery Russia Ukraine War Civilian Targets ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

But the war didn't end there. Instead, it shifted into a phase in which the area has effectively become what locals and the military term a human safari, describing it as a testing ground where people are often the target of drone attacks.

Horlova says that FPVs often land on rooftops when their batteries run low and then wait out.

When people, cars or even a cyclist appear, the drone suddenly lifts off and drops the explosive, she said. Its gotten to the point where they even drop them on animals  cows, goats.

She believes that civilians are hunted as revenge for the celebrations that broke out when Kherson was liberated.

The report from the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine says the attacks have spread terror among civilians and violated their right to life and other fundamental human rights. Investigators found that Russian units on the occupied left bank of the Dnipro carried out the strikes and identified specific drone units, operators and commanders involved. They also noted that Russian Telegram channels routinely share videos of the attacks, often with mocking captions and threats of more.

The UN commission said that it examined Russian claims that Ukrainian forces had launched drone attacks on civilians in occupied areas, unable to conclude its investigation because it lacked access to the territory, couldn't ensure witness safety and didn't receive answers from Russian authorities.

Invisible dome

Interceptions obtained by The Associated Press from the 310th Separate Marine Electronic Warfare Battalion show Russian FPV drones that appear to be hunting for vehicles. The videos capture drones flying low over roads and locking onto moving or parked cars  often pickups, supply vehicles, sedans, and even clearly marked ambulances  before diving for a strike.

open image in gallery Russia Ukraine War Civilian Targets ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

The commander of the 310th Battalion, which protects the skies over 470 kilometers (nearly 300 miles) of southern Ukraine, including Kherson, says at least 300 drones fly toward the city every day. In October alone, the number of drones that flew over Kherson was 9,000.

This area is like a training ground, said the battalions commander, Dmytro Liashok, a 16-year military veteran and one of Ukraines early pioneers in electronic warfare. They bring new Russian crews here to gain experience before sending them elsewhere. The AP couldn't independently verify the claim.

Despite the sheer volume of drones  a figure that excludes other types of weapons like artillery and glide bombs  his forces manage to neutralize more than 90%, he said.

According to the UN human rights office, short-range drone attacks have become the leading cause of civilian casualties near the front line. Local authorities say that since July 2024, more than 200 civilians have been killed and more than 2,000 wounded in three southern regions, with most victims being men. Nearly 3,000 homes have been damaged or destroyed.

During a surprise visit to Kherson in November, Angelina Jolie described the constant overhead threat as a heavy presence.

There was a moment when we had to pause and wait while a drone flew overhead, she wrote on Instagram. I was in protective gear, and for me it was just a couple of days. The families here live with this every single day.

Human hunting

At one of Khersons main hospitals treating drone victims, 70-year-old Nataliia Naumova is recovering after a strike by a Shahed drone, which carries a heavier explosive than FPV drones, left her with a blast injury to her left leg on October 20.

She says the strike hit during the night as she waited at a school in the village of Inzhenerne, where she had been temporarily sheltered, for an evacuation bus that was due to arrive the next morning.

open image in gallery Russia Ukraine War Civilian Targets ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

There were so many drones flying over us, she said, adding that she rarely left home even after its windows were shattered and boarded up. People there survive, not live. I never thought such a tragedy would happen to me.

Dr. Yevhen Haran, the hospitals deputy medical chief, says the injuries from drone strikes range from amputations to fatal wounds.

Its simply hunting for people. Theres no other name for it, he said.

He says patients wounded in Russian attacks, including drone strikes, arrive at the hospital every day. Last month alone, it treated 85 inpatients and 105 outpatients with blast injuries, all from shelling and drone strikes. It's also the only hospital in the area equipped to handle the most serious cases.

Haran himself came under FPV drone fire on August 26 while driving from nearby Mykolaiv with his wife. Rescuers stopped their car on the highway, warning that a drone was overhead.

I pulled in behind them. The drone circled and, on the next pass, flew straight into their vehicle  the drivers door, he recalled. Shrapnel tore through the front car, while his, parked behind, shielded him.

He reached the hospital with a hypertensive crisis and was later treated for a concussion. Sometimes I still lose words and feel unsteady, he said. It all happened in less than 10 minutes.

For people in Kherson, the experience of occupation, and the moment the city was freed, still shapes how they endure the constant drone attacks.

We held out until liberation  well hold out until peace as well, he said.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Soldiers in Guinea-Bissau on Thursday announced a new junta leader, cementing a forceful takeover of power that began after a disputed presidential election and led to deposed President Umaro Sissoco Embalo departing for neighboring Senegal.

The military high command in the West African nation inaugurated Gen. Horta Inta-a as the head of the military government, which will oversee a one-year transition period, according to a declaration broadcast on state television.

Embalo, meanwhile, arrived in Senegal with a flight chattered by the Senegalese government which has been in direct communication with all concerned Guinea-Bissau actors, Senegals Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement, as the country promised to work with partners to restore democracy in Guinea-Bissau.

Guinea-Bissau, one of the worlds poorest countries, has been dogged by coups and attempted coups since its independence from Portugal more than 50 years ago, including a coup attempt in October. The country of 2.2 million people is known as a hub for drug trafficking between Latin America and Europe, a trend that experts say has fueled its political crises.

Hours after the opposition called for protests against the coup and to demand the publication of election results earlier scheduled for Thursday, the military authorities issued a statement banning public protests and all disturbing actions of peace and stability in the country.

In an earlier statement, Inta-a, who was the army chief of staff until the coup and a close ally of deposed president, said: The inability of political actors to stem the deterioration of the political climate ultimately prompted the intervention of the armed forces.

The military authorities earlier said Embalo and other prominent people arrested during the coup were in good health and would remain in custody. It was not immediately clear the terms of Embalos departure to Senegal.

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission Mahmoud Ali Youssouf condemned the coup, calling for unconditional release of Embalo and other detained officials and for the respect of the electoral process.

West Africas regional bloc known as ECOWAS also held an virtual meeting of heads of state where it condemned the coup and Embalos unlawful detention. Our response will be firm, principled, and consistent with our history, said Sierra Leone President Julius Maada Bio, who serves as ECOWAS chairman.

Several other countries including France condemned the coup and called for respect for the constitutional order.

The opposition, meanwhile, alleged Embalo had fabricated the coup to avoid an election defeat in Sundays closely contested presidential vote.

The military takeover and the reported arrest of Embalo were fabricated to disrupt election results, according to his rival Fernando Dias, who, like Embalo, claimed to have won the vote.

The Associated Press could not independently verify the claims by Dias, a member of the Social Renewal Party.

Activities returned to normal in the capital Bissau on Thursday, with businesses and public transport gradually picking up.

The latest in a string of coups

The coup is the latest in a surge of military takeovers in West Africa, where democracy recently has been challenged by disputed elections that analysts say could embolden militaries.

It followed presidential and legislative elections which were held at a critical time for the African country as Embalo, a 53-year-old former army general, faced a legitimacy crisis. The opposition said his tenure had long expired and refused to recognize him as president.

The coup and past ones in Guinea-Bissau are tied to how much (state) institutions have been undermined and weakened, said Beverly Ochieng, a senior security analyst at the consultancy Control Risks. Under Embalo, she said, the legislature was dissolved unilaterally, the judiciary was operating under capacity, and there were deep-seated sentiments around political influence.

Gunshots rang out in the main city of Bissau on Wednesday just days after the tense presidential election, which Embalo and Dias both claimed to have won.

In a scene that has become familiar in the region, military officers appeared on state television and claimed they had seized power while the election commissions office was sealed.

Dias, 47, said in a video statement that he escaped custody through a back door after reports he was arrested by soldiers. He vowed to fight back.

Umaro lost the elections, and instead of accepting the result, he fabricated a coup detat, Dias said. Once again, we, we have been the target of a false coup detat. ... We will liberate ourselves.

The military officers who announced they had deposed the president cited the discovery of an ongoing plan ... to manipulate electoral results, according to a spokesperson, Dinis NTchama, who was flanked by others during the televised statement.

The scheme was set up by some national politicians with the participation of a well-known drug lord, and domestic and foreign nationals, NTchama said.

___

Asadu reported from Abuja, Nigeria.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Donald Trump could recognise Russias illegal annexation of Crimea and other occupied territories in an appeasement of the Kremlins key demands for a peace deal, according to a report.

The US president is said to have sent special envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner to Moscow with the expressed intention of offering Vladimir Putin US recognition of the occupied territories in return for a peace deal.

A source told The Telegraph: Its increasingly clear the Americans dont care about the European position. They say the Europeans can do whatever they want.

Russia has refused to budge on its maximalist demands for a deal to end their war in Ukraine. On Thursday, Putin said his forces would fight on until the last Ukrainian dies, in chilling comments that underlined Moscows reluctance to engage with the peace process. Meanwhile, Europe has been making the case to Washington that Kyiv must have territorial sovereignty and security guarantees in any agreement.

Putin said on Thursday that Washingtons legal recognition of Crimea and the Donbas as Russian would be in focus when Russian officials speak with Witkoff next week.

The Independent has contacted the White House for comment.

Ukraines top negotiator, Andriy Yermak, said in his swan song interview before resigning on Friday that Zelensky would never allow Ukraine to cede land to Russia and not a single sane person today would sign a document to give up territory.

open image in gallery Russia is demanding territory from Ukraine it has devastated throughout the course of the nearly four-year war ( AFP/Getty )

Ukraine has been engaging in attempts to find an agreeable solution to end the war, but has repeatedly ruled out handing over what it still holds of the Donbas, its eastern industrial heartland that is coveted by Putin. Zelenskys government is bound by its constitution not to give it up.

The original 28-point plan floated by the Trump administration suggested Washington could recognise Crimea, Luhansk and Donetsk as de facto Russia. Kherson and Zaporizhzhia would be recognised de facto Russian along frozen frontlines.

Europe was incensed by the brash offer to effectively hand away Ukraines territory and shot back with a counterproposal last week that negotiations should start from frozen lines.

Kyiv and the US worked to iron out fundamental differences over the weekend and both delegations came away hailing progress. But Russia still has to agree to terms, and remains obstinate on the issue of giving back territory it has captured since the war began in February 2022.

"Ukrainian troops must withdraw from the territories they hold, and then the fighting will cease. If they don't leave, then we shall achieve this by force. That's it, Putin said on Thursday.

open image in gallery Andriy Yermak (right) said Ukraines Zelensky (left) would never give up land before he resigned on Friday amid an anti-corruption probe ( Reuters )

The Kremlin said on Friday that Moscow is working on the assumption that it is negotiating a peace plan solely with the United States.

Russia also expects to have information on the agreed points of a proposed peace plan by the time Witkoff and his delegation arrives next week, Interfax reported.

Kyiv kept up the pressure on Friday as Russias defence ministry reported having shot down 136 drones over several regions including the annexed Crimean peninsula overnight. Damage to cars, residential buildings and houses was reported by local authorities in Russias Rostov and Voronezh regions.

Russia meanwhile continue to claim gains in and around the beleaguered city of Pokrovsk. Putin said on Thursday that Russian forces were now in control of 70 per cent of the vital transport hub. On Friday, the defence ministry said Ukrainian troops had been cleared from more than 6,500 buildings in the last week as fierce fighting raged.

Moscow has been trying to take full control of Pokrovsk since mid-2024 as part of its push to take the whole of the wider Donbas industrial region.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Volodymyr Zelenskys chief of staff Andriy Yermak has resigned in a huge blow to his government, hours after anti-corruption agents raided his home in a corruption probe.

In a statement, the Ukrainian president said he had accepted Yermaks resignation and would consider his replacement on Saturday.

"Russia very much wants Ukraine to make mistakes," Zelenskiy said in a video address. "There will be no mistakes on our part. Our work continues."

Yermak, often referred to as Zelenskys right-hand man, had his home and offices searched on Friday as part of an investigation into a $100m (76m) corruption scandal.

The investigators are facing no obstacles, the former film producer wrote on Telegram. They were given full access to the apartment, my lawyers are on site, interacting with law enforcement officers. For my part, I fully cooperate.

The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office are leading the investigation involving top Ukrainian officials.

Earlier this month, the watchdogs released a report implicating several government members in a $100m (76m) embezzlement scheme involving Ukraines state nuclear power company, Energoatom.

The 15-month investigation, dubbed Operation Midas, involved more than 1,000 hours of wiretapping. The group at the centre of the scandal are accused of extracting kickbacks worth 10-15 per cent of contract values, laundering the massive sums through a secret office in Kyiv.

Eight people were accused of bribery, abuse of office and possession of disproportionate assets. More than 70 raids were conducted throughout the operation.

open image in gallery Andriy Yermak says he is cooperating with authorities ( Reuters )

The controversy led to the first street protests in Ukraine since Russias invasion in February 2022. Zelensky called for the sacking of both justice and energy ministers in response, who resigned earlier this month.

Europe demanded reassurances after the findings of the probe were released.

We expect Ukraine to press ahead with anti-corruption measures and reforms in its own country, said German chancellor Friedrich Merz.

Ukrainian-Israeli entrepreneur, Tymur Mindich, the alleged ringleader of the scheme, fled the country after he was accused of being the mastermind. Mindich was a co-owner of a production company that helped launch Zelenskys career as a comedian.

NABU and SAP have two further investigations underway involving allegations of inflated military procurement contracts and raids on the defence ministry are expected in the coming days.

open image in gallery The anti-corruption probe comes as Trump and Putin continue to go back and forth on peace plans ( Reuters )

The scandal comes at a crucial juncture in US-brokered negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, in which Yermak has been playing a central role.

President Donald Trump proposed a 28-point peace plan, which was widely criticised as being pro-Russian, while Europe demanded amendments and suggested a counter-proposal after talks held in Geneva. On Thursday, Putin said that Russia could agree to the US plan as the basis for future agreements.

Territorial lines remain key sticking points for both sides, with Kyiv saying it would never cede territory to Russia.

Yermak has sought to assure Washington that Kyiv is ready for peace and open to negotiation - but made it clear that areas including the Donbas region are off-limits.
Close We are Russias next target warns Nato chief

On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

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 after Donald Trump says he exchanged "pretty strong words" with European leaders on a call discussing his proposal to end the Ukraine war.

Trump also said Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky has to be realistic about his countrys position on a peace plan, and said the US will make a determination depending on what they come back with.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

The footage of Israeli security forces apparently summarily executing two Palestinians is damning.

In the short clip, first broadcast on Egyptian TV, two Palestinian men, apparently unarmed, emerge from a partially destroyed building with their hands above their heads. Several officers order them to lie down.

The officers then open fire at close range and shoot them dead. This happened on Thursday afternoon during an Israeli military and border police raid on Jenin, in the occupied West Bank.

The two men were named as Yusef Asasah, 39, and al-Muntaser bel-lah Abdallah, 26, by the Israeli rights group BTselem, who said the two were surrendering and apparently posed no threat.

The Israeli military, in a statement, claimed that the individuals were wanted and were affiliated with a terror network whose name they did not disclose.

open image in gallery The Palestinian health ministry said in a statement that the two men were killed in the shooting, identifying them as 26-year-old al-Muntaser bel-lah Abdallah and 39-year-old Yusef Asasah ( Reuters )

Following their exit, fire was directed toward the suspects, the military wrote, adding that the incident is under review by the commanders on the ground.

Such a brazen killing caught on camera prompted Israeli public broadcaster Kan to report that even the Israeli military chief of staff Eyal Zamir had ordered an expedited investigation into the incident.

Kan also reported that the soldiers had said they were following orders. So it seems this is not an isolated incident  nor likely to have been an operational mistake.

It is some of the starkest and clearest footage showing a surge in violence and rampant violations of international law committed by Israeli forces. This violence is something that respected Israeli, Palestinian and international rights groups have been documenting, and warning about, since the war in Gaza erupted in October 2023.

More than 1,000 people, including numerous foreign citizens, have been killed in the West Bank by Israeli forces or settlers in the past two years, according to the United Nations.

That death toll is so high that rights groups say the past two years have been the bloodiest period the area has witnessed since Israel first occupied the land in 1967, almost 60 years ago.

Israeli forces have also stormed and emptied four refugee camps  Jenin, Nur Shams, Tulkarm and Fara  forcibly displacing more than 40,000 people in February.

This latest execution, along with the other violence and killings, is the result of an accelerated process of dehumanisation of Palestinians, and the complete abandonment of their lives by the Israeli regime, said BTselems executive director, Yuli Novka.

open image in gallery Israeli soldiers take their positions during the raid in Jenin in the Israeli-occupied West Bank ( Reuters )

In Israel, there is no mechanism that acts to stop the killing of Palestinians or is capable of prosecuting those responsible, she added, urging the international community to intervene.

And this is another failing. Donald Trumps widely lauded peace deal for Gaza fails to even mention the occupied West Bank, despite the fact that this extraordinary level of violence has been happening alongside the slaughter in Gaza, where an unprecedented bombardment by Israel has, according to Palestinian health officials, resulted in nearly 70,000 dead.

Even in Gaza, since the ratification in October of Trumps deal, which he heralded as the dawn of a new peace for the region, the Palestinian health authorities reported this week that more than 340 Palestinians have been killed as Israel has continued to bomb and raid parts of the besieged territory.

As the West Bank is not even mentioned in the deal, military-level raids continue, and result  as this video shows  in extrajudicial killings.

But the violence is not limited to members of the security services.

The UK, France, Germany and Italy released a joint statement on Thursday sounding the alarm about a massive and deadly surge in settler violence against Palestinians, which eyewitnesses have repeatedly explained to me occurs under the watchful gaze of the security forces.

Israel seized the West Bank, East Jerusalem and Gaza in the 1967 six-day war, an occupation that the International Court of Justice has deemed to be illegal and in defiance of the Palestinian right to self-determination and statehood.

open image in gallery Israeli soldiers are seen during an army raid in the West Bank town of Tubas on 26 November ( AP )

Since then, Israel has built and expanded its settlements to such an extent that the West Bank is now home to more than 500,000 Israeli settlers.

Since Hamass deadly attacks on southern Israel on 7 October 2023, many settlers have actually been armed by the state and recruited into what Israel has called regional defence units, which international, Israeli and Palestinian rights groups say have been getting bolder and more violent every day.

On Thursday, the UK and its allies said the number of attacks had reached new heights. There were 264 attacks in October, according to the UNs humanitarian office, which said this was the largest number of settlers attacks in a single month since the United Nations began recording such incidents in 2006.

We, ministers of France, Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom, call on the government of Israel to abide by its obligations under international law and protect the Palestinian population of the occupied territories, the statement added.

The UK has also imposed sanctions on individual settlers.

A representative of BTselem has previously told The Independent that not only does the Israeli military support violent settler behaviour, but the settlers themselves have access to state-supplied weapons and are actually part of the army now.

They get total impunity, the person added at the time.

A stark example is an incident that took place in July in Umm al-Khair, which is part of Masafer Yatta, in the south of the occupied West Bank. The plight of Palestinian communities there, who face relentless attacks from settlers, was featured in the Oscar-winning film No Other Land.

open image in gallery Basel Adra, the Palestinian co-director of the Oscar-winning documentary No Other Land, is pictured beside a damaged car after a settlers attack in the village of Susiya in Masafer Yatta, south Hebron hills, on 25 March 2025 ( AP )

There, Awdah Hathaleen, 31, a Palestinian activist who had worked on the documentary, actually appeared to film his own murder by a UK-sanctioned settler, Yinon Levi.

Despite the video footage, and despite there being multiple Palestinian and international witnesses, Levi was only briefly held under house arrest before being freed. He has since been filmed continuing to harass the families in Umm al-Khair.

There can be no miracle peace in Palestine, Israel or the region if these wanton acts of violence are not only able to continue with impunity, but normalised.

In order for there to be an actual ceasefire peace deal, the occupied West Bank must also be included in any text.

There must be accountability for violations of international law  to allow peace and security to prevail in a way that is fair for all.
On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Ten people were killed by Israeli fire in a village in southern Syria on Friday, Syrian state media has reported, while the Israeli military confirmed five of its soldiers were wounded during a clash in an operation to apprehend members of a militant group there.

Syrian state media accounts suggested the Israeli raid in the Beit Jinn area had spiralled into one of the deadliest such incidents since President Bashar al-Assad was toppled a year ago.

The Israeli military stated its troops came under fire from militants during an overnight operation aimed at detaining suspects belonging to a group it identified as the Jaama Islamiya.

This raid was described as part of routine operations conducted in the area in recent months.

Israel has mounted regular incursions in southern Syria, citing goals that include keeping militants away from its frontier.

The Israeli troops responded with fire "along with aerial assistance", the Israeli military said in a statement, adding that three of the wounded Israeli soldiers had severe injuries. "A number of terrorists were eliminated," it said.

open image in gallery Syrian state media reports suggested the Israeli raid in the Beit Jinn area had spiralled into one of the deadliest such incidents since President Bashar al-Assad was toppled a year ago ( REUTERS )

The Syrian state news agency SANA, citing the head of the health directorate in the Damascus countryside governorate, reported 10 people were killed and dozens more wounded as a result of the Israeli attack.

The dead included two children, SANA reported earlier.

The Israeli forces had shelled Beit Jinn at 3.40am (1.40am GMT) and Israeli troops had entered the village, SANA said. Residents confronted the Israeli forces, which responded, leading to "violent clashes", it added.

Israeli forces arrested two people, the military and a local Syrian official said.

The Israeli military declined to offer further details about the militant group it said was targeted in the raid. It accused the suspects of military activity, including planting improvised-explosive devices, and "planning future attacks on Israel including rocket fire".

Israel has voiced deep suspicion of Syria's new government led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, a former al Qaeda commander, and has said it wants a demilitarized southern Syria.

open image in gallery The Syrian state news agency SANA, citing the head of the health directorate in the Damascus countryside governorate, reported 10 people were killed and dozens more wounded as a result of the Israeli attack ( REUTERS )

Sharaa has said Syria does not pose a threat to any state in the region or the world.

Israel has intervened militarily several times with the declared aim of protecting members of Syria's Druze minority, notably during violence in Sweida province in July that pitted Sunni Muslim Bedouin fighters and government forces against Druze fighters.

Israel, which frequently bombed Syria when it was ruled by Assad, stepped up its military operations in the country after he was ousted, moving troops and military equipment past a 1974 buffer zone and into southern Syria, including the strategic overlook point of Mount Hermon.
The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Former US Secretary of State John Kerry has railed against the second Trump administration, criticising declining standards in politics and perceived levels of corruption among officials.

This is the most corrupt governance that I have seen in my lifetime, he said during a speech at Chatham House in central London this week.

This is the most extraordinary perversion of anything we have fought to have over the last years on disclosure, accountability, conflict of interest, absence thereof.

He added that former Republican Senator John McCain - who was an outspoken critic of Trump - would have been screaming at what was going on, but suggested that it was notable now that there are no voices effectively opposing the President from his own party.

Trump has been accused of wide-ranging conflicts of interest in a whole host of different areas during his second administration, from accepting a $400 million plane from Qatar and negotiating Trump Organisation deals in the Middle East, to developing Trump-branded cryptocurrency while also deregulating the sector.

Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, said: Neither the President nor his family have ever engaged, or will ever engage, in conflicts of interest.

Kerry said that faith can be restored in politics.

Most of us believe that we're going to go out in these next months, organise, continue to resist, build up support, and win back the House of Representatives, he said, predicting a favourable result for the Democrats in next years mid-term elections.

open image in gallery John Kerry holds his granddaughter as he signs the Paris Agreement on climate change in April 2016 at the UN headquarters. The former climate envoy told The Independent that he believes the Cop process is losing credibility after the disappointing Cop30 outcome ( AP )

Speaking to The Independent after his speech, Kerry  who also served as US climate envoy under President Biden  expressed disappointment at the outcome of the recent Cop30 climate conference , and suggested that the format is not working as well as it should.

[The Cop process] is losing credibility in a lot of quarters; Its a troubled process right now, he said, after countries failed to specifically mention the need to transition away from fossil fuels in the final agreement text, due to pressure from petrostates like Saudi Arabia.

The only time that there has been a specific mention of fossil fuels was in the final agreement to Cop28 in the UAE in 2023  the last conference at which Kerry was climate envoy  and he said that countries need to get back to the UAE outcome.

As to why the most recent climate conference failed to reach a more ambitious outcome, Kerry suggested that the absence of the US likely played a big part.

It was clearly a big factor it was an invitation for other countries to step back, he said, adding that in the past, some countries have come on board because of US pressure, and now they seem to have taken a break.

Recent climate conferences have seen the US and China drive forward climate action via joint communiques and there was some disappointment that China failed to adopt a more pressurising role during the most recent talks.

Despite the disappointing outcome, Kerry said that he remained optimistic that the clean energy transition will continue , and that the US will eventually return to the climate fold.

I am absolutely confident that ultimately we're going to get to a low carbon economy, he said. But I am not confident that we're going to get there in time to avoid the worst consequences of what's happening.
Im going to start referring to heterosexuals in the public eye as openly straight, in the hope that it draws attention to how clunky and outdated the phrase is when used to describe gay people. By now, youll have seen the headlines: Grace Richardson, 20, crowned the first openly gay Miss England in what is being celebrated as a triumph for representation.

The entire circus around this announcement gave me the ick. I dont mean to diminish the personal journey of a young gay woman who has spoken candidly about the homophobic bullying she experienced as a teenager, and how isolating it was to grow up feeling different. Well done to you for winning a strangely anachronistic beauty contest  take that, haters!

What troubles me is more the giddy insistence on her being the first openly lesbian Miss England, and the implication that this, finally, is what progress looks like. Because in 2025, shouldnt we be past this by now?

Lets start with the pageant itself. Miss England still trades, however modernised it pretends to be, on narrow ideas of femininity, palatability and traditional womanhood.

It exists in a bubble entirely detached from the material realities of womens lives in this country, let alone queer womens lives. To crown a lesbian within that system and declare it a radical win feels to me like assimilation with a sash.

I am all for representation obviously. But is this citadel of heteronormativity really where queer political energy should be funnelled? Is this really the battleground we want to win? Or is it simply the easiest arena for mainstream culture to congratulate itself for letting one in?

Were seeing this pattern elsewhere. Just weeks ago, Jonathan Bailey was crowned Peoples Sexiest Man Alive  and instantly labelled the first openly gay man to be given the accolade. The implication, humming beneath the headline, was that previous winners may well have been gay too, they just werent allowed to say it. Again, we were invited to celebrate not just Baileys win, but the institutions magnanimity in finally letting queerness be visible on its terms. To trumpet the first really just advertises how long the exclusion lasted.

There is something deeply vanilla about the way queer success is celebrated when it happens inside straight institutions. We clap when someone gay makes it into the room. We rarely ask who built the room in the first place or why so many of us still live outside it.

To crown a lesbian within that system and declare it a radical win feels to me like assimilation with a sash ( Miss England )

And then theres the language. That grinding, awkward prefix that refuses to die: openly.

Because what are we really saying when we insist on openly lesbian? That being gay is still a disclosure. A confession? Something that must be clarified for the comfort of a presumed straight audience.

Andrew Scott called for the phrase openly gay to be parked altogether, pointing out how strange it is that we only ever hear it in the media. You are never at a party and you say, This is my openly gay friend, he said. You dont say youre openly Irish. You dont say youre openly left-handed. Why do we put openly in front of that adjective?

There is something in it, he added, that sits uncomfortably close to the idea of being shameless. As if visibility itself still needs justification.

A more generous reading of all this is that openly acknowledges a past in which people couldnt be visible without risk. One doesnt want to presume there were no gay Miss Worlds or no gay Sexiest Men (cmon!) before this moment. Thats true. But it also reinforces the idea that straight remains the unmarked default, while queerness must always be caveated.

Which brings me to the increasingly stale performance of coming out as a cultural climax. There was a time when doing so was radical. And of course for many people today, it still carries real risk. But if queerness were presumed to be part of the ordinary human spectrum rather than an exception to it, then nobody would need to come out at all. We would simply live, and move through the world without constantly being asked to announce and explain ourselves in a way straight people never have to.

This is why the celebration around Richardsons win feels so hollow to me. Her identity as a lesbian is being used to modernise an institution that remains fundamentally out of step with the world.

An openly gay person being embraced by the mainstream is queerness made safe. Meanwhile, the queer communities doing the most urgent, radical and life-changing work in healthcare access, housing justice, trans safety and youth support rarely receive anything like this fanfare.
What I spend on Christmas: I would imagine that my total will be about 2,000 and the majority of my budget will be on my own kids
Kildare man to be hit with $900,000 judgment in Florida fraud case

Paul Wright was accused in US lawsuit of fraud and using investor money to fund lifestyle

Paul Wright

John Mulligan Fri 28 Nov 2025 at 06:30

A firm owned by a US lawyer is set to be awarded almost $900,000 (776,000) in compensation and damages against Ireland-based businessman Paul Wright after a magistrate in Florida recommended that a judge there adopt a default final judgment against him.
KFC says planning system is an obstacle to its 105m expansion in Ireland

Chain, which will open new flagship store on Grafton Street next month, is optimistic about its Irish business

Rob Swain is KFCs general manager in Ireland and the UK. Photo: Chris Ratcliffe/Parsons Media

John Burns Fri 28 Nov 2025 at 06:30

The planning system is proving to be an obstacle to the expansion of KFC, as it aims to open 25 more restaurants in Ireland as part of a 105m investment plan over the next five years.
The National Asset Management Agency (Nama) has made a reasonable return on the States original investment over its 15-year life-time, according to a new study.

It also concludes that the original valuation of the distressed assets Nama bought from the banks was about right and the eventual profit of over 5bn it made was appropriate on a risk-return basis.
Company marks its 40 years in Ireland with 4m AI skills pledge

Microsoft has announced a new 4m investment in AI skilling among its Irish workforce to mark its 40th anniversary as an industrial presence in Ireland.

The tech giant  which employs 6,400 people through its campus in Leopardstown in Dublin and its subsidiaries LinkedIn and Activision Blizzard King  has also published an economic impact report which claims that the company has contributed 40bn to Irelands economy over the past decade, not including the corporate tax it has paid here.
Growing demand for AI is driving advances in chip technology

For as long as Nvidia has dominated the market for artificial intelligence chips, customers have made clear theyd like to see more competition. It now turns out one of the most formidable alternatives may have been hiding in plain sight.
Bank Of Ireland outage leaves some customers locked out of apps and online banking

The bank said that it has resolved what it claimed was a supplier-based interruption that caused some customers to be locked out on Friday morning

Adrian Weckler Fri 28 Nov 2025 at 12:01

Bank Of Ireland says it has resolved an issue that left some of its mobile app and 365 Online banking customers with difficulties accessing services.
They feared their little boy was going to die  Child (8) waits nearly two hours for ambulance after suffering horrific injury
Great error of judgment: Regina Doherty says its hard to accept Ceann Comhairles explanation over Sinn Fein photo call

Verona Murphy says she was misled about intentions of photo, but MEP says impartiality was compromised and excuse is inadequate

Verona Murphy with Sinn Fein members in the photo call

Mary Regan Fri 28 Nov 2025 at 06:30

Fine Gael MEP Regina Doherty has said it is hard to accept the explanation from Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy about her decision to pose for a photograph with Sinn Fein TDs and senators.
Show you care this year with these crafty and unusual presents made in Ireland

Driftwood jars from FInnegans Pottery at Gifted are at the Gifted fair in the RDS

If you believe in buying local theres no better time of year to do so. Christmas is a time of emotional connection. The exchange of gifts brings us closer together  thats its purpose  and handmade gifts are often more meaningful than those made in factories on the far side of the world.

This is why craft objects make good presents. We all need things we can believe in.

Heres how it works. When you buy a piece of Irish craft  homeware, for the sake of this article  theres always a story behind it. Someone made it for a reason thats not entirely to do with money.

Craft is not a lucrative profession and making things by hand involves an element of vocation. This is a good starting point for a meaningful gift. The person who created it cared about what they do.

People want to meet the makers, says Ava Kelly of J Hills Standard. They want to have the conversation about the work. But were scattered across the country and some of us are quite remote. There are very few places selling Irish craft and design and its hard to find a space where we can speak about our work.

J Hills Standard makes hand-cut crystal glass in Lismore, Co Waterford. The company was founded by Kellys mother, Anike Tyrrell, in 2014. Its now a mother-and-daughter enterprise. Their glassware is designed by contemporary Irish and European designers and made from scratch by former Waterford Crystal workers.

Broth bowls from Fermoyle Pottery at Form & Fable

Forming the company was a response to skills loss in the area, Kelly says, referring to the 2009 closure of the Waterford Crystal factory. We wanted to use some of that skill, but to do it in a way that was beautiful and contemporary.

The company, J Hills Standard, is named for an English glassmaker who came to work in the new Waterford Glass House in 1783. The factory was owned by George and William Penrose, Quaker entrepreneurs who spotted a business opportunity but didnt have a clue about making glass. Unlike his employers, John Hill knew the secret of mixing glass materials. He left Ireland abruptly in 1786, accused of an indiscretion by William Penroses wife.

Believing himself to be wrongly accused, Hill passed on his secret formula to his best friend, a humble clerk in the company. The clerk, Jonathan Gatchell, was instantly promoted and the story of glassmaking in Waterford continued. Were only the most recent chapter in that story, Kelly explains.

J Hills Standard HopStep by Aldo Bakker in porcelain

The glasses from J Hills Standard are easy on the eye and balanced in the hand. When you touch one, its immediately obvious that this is a superb piece of craftsmanship. But put it down carefully before you ask the price. Most glasses cost around 220. Each.

You have to explain to people why it costs so much, but there are those who can afford to buy better and buy less

We had to hold our nerve on that one, Kelly confesses. They cost what they cost because they take an extraordinary amount of time and skill to make, and the makers need to be paid fairly. You have to explain to people why it costs so much, but there are those who can afford to buy better and buy less. When they do, it has a huge impact.

This Christmas, J Hills Standard has curated Form & Fable, a pop-up store of Irish craft and design at Wilton Park, Dublin 2. The pop-up, which runs until December 21, is in partnership with IPUT Real Estate. This is a small but lovingly curated selection of really high quality craftwork, with an accompanying programme of workshops and events.

Jerpoint Glass Tangerine twist collection from Irish Design Shop

Pieces range from the Anam stick chair (1,845) and Anam tablin stool by Peter Sheehan and Michael Murphy; handwoven hot water bottle covers (68) from Mourne Textiles made in Co Down; ceramics from Fermoyle Pottery in Co Kerry (from 20); and art prints and homeware by Superfolk in Co Mayo (prints from 120).

Gearoid Muldowney of Superfolk shows me their latest invention. Its an Acorn Sprouter (50) shaped like an oak leaf and made of polished brass. First collect your acorn, then place it on the sprouter over a glass of water.

The roots will reach down to the water and the leaves reach up to the air. When its strong enough, plant it in the earth. It may one day become an oak tree. This is a beautifully symbolic gift. Tall oaks from little acorns grow.

Alena Postnikova of Finnegan's Pottery with Finnegan the cat

Driftwood jars from FInnegans Pottery at Gifted are at the Gifted fair in the RDS

On December 10, J Hills Standard will launch a new collaboration with the fashion designer Richard Malone. Its called The Misfits and consists of limited edition cocktail glasses (225 for a set of three). Theyre kind of quirky, Kelly says. They lean off to one side and look like theyre going to fall over but theyre actually really stable.

For a different flavour of Irish made cocktail glasses, the Sweet Shop collection (65 for a stemmed glass) is mouth-blown in candy colours by Jerpoint Glass in Co Kilkenny. The collection is exclusive to Irish Design Shop. The stores 2026 wall-hung calendar  Lovely Stuff  is a collaboration with Dublin illustrator Conor Nolan, designed by Eamonn OSullivan of Anchor Studio in Kenmare.

The prints are designed to be torn out and you can frame your favourite. A frame made from reclaimed floorboards by Rocker Lane Workshop costs 50.

Theres a much wider selection of handmade homeware at craft fairs around the country. The biggest of these is Gifted, which runs at the RDS from December 3 to 7. Its a massive event, and can be overwhelming, but theres nowhere else youll find all these makers gathered together. If youre serious about gift buying, do your research and go in with a plan.

Giant Kelp print from Superfolk at Form & Fable

Ive done many local markets but this will be my first one in Dublin and the biggest one by far, says Alena Postnikova of Finnegans Pottery. Her ceramics  which include a series of jars with driftwood handles (from 40)  are inspired by the boglands and coastline near her home in Co Galway.

Her story is a good example of how culturally diverse Irish craft can be. Brought up in France, with Russian and Ukrainian heritage, she came to the West of Ireland on holiday and liked it so much she stayed. She learnt to make pots with Kevin OKelly of Galway Pottery Classes and named Finnegans Pottery after her cat.

Craft fairs are not for everyone. Its also possible to buy handmade gifts online, directly from the maker, or from local shops. Design and Craft Council Ireland (DCCI) Made Local online directory allows you to search for makers by name, by product, and by location. Its not the easiest site to navigate but the information is there if youre patient.

See formandfable.ie, jhillsstandard.com, superfolk.com, irishdesignshop.com, finneganspottery.com, giftedfair.ie, and madelocal.ie
Tipperary's appeal lies in understatement, says The Seattle Times. "The quiet grandeur of the Rock of Cashel, the easy charm of its market towns and the balance of fine dining and farm simplicity"

Tipperary is having a moment according to The Seattle Times, one of Americas most respected publications.

The Premier County can add a recent feature in the American newspaper to a growing list of global recommendations, after The Lonely Planet named it as one of the best places to visit in 2026.

Journalist Jennifer Allen extols the virtues of Tipperary in The Seattle Times in an article published on Tuesday, November 25. From Michelin Key hotels to world-class racing, theres plenty to see in this Irish county.

Named one of Lonely Planets Top 25 Places to Visit in 2026, County Tipperary is suddenly on the global travel map, and not just for its emerald hills and medieval castles, writes Ms Allen, a retired chef turned traveller, and cookbook author.

Here, ancient abbeys share the skyline with the Rock of Cashel, Michelin stars glint in the shadow of centuries-old stone, and horses still thunder across fields where history is infused in every step. I visited in late October and never wanted to leave.

Some of the highlights of Ms Allens visit were to the Rock of Cashel, Coolmore Stud near Fethard, Cahir Castle, the Tipperary Boutique Distillery, tasting local cuisine such as Cashel Blue Cheese, and savouring the sights of the Golden Vale.

Tipperary has always had the ingredients: history, hospitality and that elusive mix of confidence and humility. Now the world is finally catching on, added Ms Allen.

The Seattle Times has a readership of over half a million people daily and over 700,000 on Sundays, with its digital network reaching 1.9m adults monthly in the Puget Sound area of Washington State on Americas west coast.

Fine Gael councillor Declan Burgess, who lives near the foot of the famous Rock of Cashel, an iconic emblem of Tipperary, said: I am delighted to see this fantastic article from The Seattle Times, USA shining a light on Cashel and County Tipperary and all we have to offer.

Its always great to see our community, heritage, and local attractions getting the recognition they deserve.

From the world-famous Rock of Cashel to the stunning Cashel Palace Hotel, the scenic Glen of Aherlow, the beautiful Dundrum woods and trails, and the vibrant local food scene. Cashel and County Tipperary continues to grow as a must-visit destination in Ireland.

Articles like this help showcase the very best of our area to a wider audience, and Im proud to see our story being told so positively, added Cllr Burgess.

Separately, the launch of the Tipperary Tourism Roadmap Growing the Value of Tourism in Tipperary 2025-2030 took place on Wednesday, November 26, in the Main Guard, Clonmel. The roadmap was launched alongside Tipperarys new immersive website tipperary.com.

Tipperary Tourism are ambitious and I am excited to see what unfolds in county Tipperary. I am certainly focused as a local councillor to deliver the infrastructure needed to have an enhanced tourism experience, added Cllr Burgess.
That successive governments have failed on housing is a fact. Parties now in opposition also came up short when in coalition governments.

Although never in government, Sinn Fein has sought to hold the Government to account for its missed targets. However, there has to come a point when something other than sound and fury is needed.

For the past few years we have been promised a whole-of-government response to the housing emergency. We need to see real evidence of intent.

When confronted with a genuine threat to the country, as we saw during the crash or during the pandemic, Ireland rises to the occasion.

Is it really beyond our politicians to conjure up a similar spirit of cohesion and purpose to meet the challenge to deliver the homes that are so desperately needed?

The public can only despair at the depressing exchanges in the Dail, when Tanaiste Simon Harris called Sinn Feins Pearse Doherty a hypocrite.

Mr Doherty had accused the Government of prioritising landlords and developers and leaving renters abandoned. Mr Harris responded by saying it was Sinn Fein that benefited from contributions from US construction companies and builders.

Out there in the real world, the crisis is being reflected in lived experience, with children suffering. Focus Ireland revealed that a record number of 5,250 children will be homeless this Christmas.

Homelessness is not inevitable. It is the result of policy choices and is entirely preventable

The charitys new ambassador, actor Emmet Kirwan, who is currently playing Bob Cratchit in A Christmas Carol at the Gate Theatre, drew a parallel with the Dickensian era when families struggle perennially to get and keep a roof over their heads. He said it is almost as if we are revisiting a Victorian model of charity and giving. Housing is being provided by housing bodies  essentially charities.

Focus Ireland CEO Pat Dennigan said he wanted to be clear: homelessness is not inevitable. It is the result of policy choices and is entirely preventable.

He feels we can and must end the emergency, saying: With political will and public support, we can help families rebuild their lives and end homelessness for good.

The Government recently published its new housing plan. It was titled Delivering Homes, Building Communities 2025-2030: An Action Plan on Housing Supply and Targeting Homelessness.

The latest homelessness figures will be published today, and once again they will turn the spotlight on how essential that promised action is.

We need TDs and ministers in the Dail to act in concert so all efforts are channelled into ramping up the supply of new homes. Incentives and innovative schemes to help reduce rents and deliver affordable accommodation must also be boosted.

Lastly, legal impediments and local objections can no longer take precedence over the national interest and the provision of homes for families. Voters need results from those elected to represent them, not ill-tempered shouting matches.
A Cork family well-known for serving up slices of happiness across the city is firing up a new chapter.

Pizza and chipper entrepreneur Tom Harrington is hanging up his apron and handing the reins to his twin sons - who will open a brand-new fast-food business on Monday, December 1 called TOMTOMS.

Tom has been a fixture in Corks fast-food scene: first opening Burger Hut in Hollyhill in 1985, and later operating Apache Pizza franchises in Hollyhill, Bishopstown, and Douglas.

Now, his sons Scott and Mark are ready to take a slice of the action under their own independent brand, named in tribute to their father.

As part of the rebrand, the former Apache Pizza and Burger Hut locations will be relaunched under TOMTOMS.

TOMTOMS will be a new, fully family-owned and Cork brand, marking a move to an independent brand that reflects who they are and what they do best - pizza and chipper together.

The proud father is delighted his sons are taking the business forward. After 40 years in the business, it feels like the right time to retire and let the lads put their own stamp on things. Theyve grown up around the business. I couldnt be prouder to see them carry it forward in their own way.

"They are enthusiastic and ready for the challenge, with a fresh batch of ideas to bring to the table, he added.

Weve worked really successfully with Apache over the years, said Mark Harrington. We want to thank them for their support, but weve always been more than just pizza. Were a full chipper too which will continue. This is our chance to create something thats truly ours, rooted in family, flavour, and local personality.

The Hollyhill branch, first opened as Burger Hut 40 years ago, later amalgamating with Apache Pizza in 2001.

Both brothers have worked in the business for most of their lives - full-time since the Douglas store opened.

Many of their team members have been with the family for over 20 years, that longevity and experience is something they value hugely.

All staff will be retained as part of the rebrand, and customers can expect the same great quality and service, with an even broader menu including pizzas, burgers, baguettes, kebabs, and more family favourites.

Mark said TOMTOMS will bring together the best of their pizza and chipper heritage. We will have the same great team, a bigger menu and will remain proudly rooted in Cork. Were looking forward to innovating and driving on our own business model.

That innovation starts with the introduction of TOMTOMS new Pizza Pocket- a pizza wrap oozing with cheese that the brothers hope will become a signature hit with customers.

With three TOMTOMS locations opening in Hollyhill, Bishopstown, and Douglas from Monday, the family is offering a special offer for the month of December of a large 14-inch pizza for just 12 (online for delivery and collection)

This is the next chapter for our family, said Mark. Were excited to continue serving our community and to welcome everyone to TOMTOMS. For more see https://www.tomtoms.ie/
Cork Arts Theatre is looking forward to a golden year in 2026. The Cork theatre will deliver an ambitious programme, producing three contemporary plays, under the banner Re:Directing.

Cork Arts Theatre is looking forward to a golden year in 2026 as it celebrates its 50th year.

Thanks to vital support from the Arts Council, the Cork theatre will deliver an ambitious programme, producing three contemporary plays, under the banner Re:Directing.

Platforming three Cork born theatre directors: Julie Kelleher, Al Dalton and Katrina Foley, the work will harness the immense talent of Cork theatre artists to create high quality, local, productions that fit within the intimate setting of Cork Arts Theatre.

Cork Arts Theatre Director, Fin Flynn said: It is going to be an exciting year for CAT. We are a small venue. We punch above our weight in our offering to Cork theatre goers and the opportunities we provide for local artists to showcase their work."

Mr Flynn continued: The Arts Council grant is a recognition of our crucial role in bringing quality theatre to Cork audiences and creating opportunities for Cork artists. We were delighted to receive the funding to produce work, in what will be the venues 50th year.

It is a testament to the hard work of everyone who steered this small, but vibrant, theatre through some challenging times. We wont be resting on our laurels. We are looking forward to continuing to offer great theatre experiences for audiences for the next fifty years, he added.

The three plays in the Re:Directing series - Infinity by Canadian playwright Hannah Moscovitch; Constellations, by Nick Payne, and Girl in the Machine by Stef Smith - differ in style and tone but are thematically linked.

All three explore romantic relationships.

On the surface Infinity examines relationships in a romantic context and this clever script poses broader philosophical questions.

As a theatre experience it delivers on both an emotional and an intellectual level.

Constellations is an existential drama spliced with high concept romance that follows two would-be lovers through parallel universes, while Girl in the Machine is a story of love in a fast-changing digital age.

The multi award-winning set and lighting designer, Aedin Cosgrove, and acclaimed costume designer Valentina Gambardella, will work across all three plays in the Re: Directing series.

All three will have a radically different design and the aim is to repurpose materials across the productions where possible.

A different sound designer, or composer, is attached to each production to create diverse soundscapes.

Cork Arts Theatre first opened its doors in 1976. Since then, the 100-seat theatre has firmly established itself in the affections of Cork theatre goers and is an integral part of the fabric of theatre in Cork.

Infinity by Hannah Moscovitch, directed by Julie Kelleher will run from Wednesday, February 4 to 4th to Saturday, February 14, 2026.

Constellations by Nick Payne, directed by Al Dalton, will run from Wednesday, June 17 to Sunday, June 17, 2026. Presented in partnership with Cork Midsummer Festival.

Girl in the machine by Stef Smith, directed by Katrina Foley, will run from Wednesday, November 11 to Saturday, November 21.
The festive season will kick off in Macroom this evening as the Christmas lights will be officially turned on.

A large crowd is expected to make their way to the Square in the town this evening for a Christmas market, which will serve warm beverages and sweet treats until 8:30pm and a tractor run organised by Cork Marts, which is raising funds for local charities, will also take place.

Santa, Mrs Claus and the elf will also make an appearance in the Midwest Cork town.

The grand display is being organised by the Lee Valley Enterprise Board, who are crucial to advertising Macroom and its hinterlands to the rest of Cork, Munster and the whole of Ireland.

Administrator at the Lee Valley Enterprise Board, Geraldine Galvin said planning for the festive season begins as the Macroom Food Festival concludes in September.

"Macroom is divided into four events  the St Patricks Day parade in March, the music festival in the summer, the food festival in September and Christmas.

"Every quarter there is something going on in the town, which is great for the local community, she said.

Many Macroom Tidy Towns volunteers dedicated their time to erect the lights across the town, and the Chairperson of the organisation and local councillor Martin Coughlan, said this evening is not one to be missed.

We will have the Christmas market from 5pm and the lights will be turned on at 7pm, and the tractor run as well, it is not a night to be missed.

Our volunteers put the lights up and the same group of us do it every year, Mr Coughlan said.

Ms Galvin encourages everyone in the area to put on their coat and make their way to the Square this evening.

The weather forecast predicts a dry night but a hat and gloves may be necessary to fight off the November chill.

Shoppers and visitors to Macroom can enjoy free parking in the town from Monday for the entire month of December.

The proposal was passed by Macroom councillors during the municipal council meeting for October on Thursday.

In line with previous years, the first two hours of on-street parking will be free, and charges will kick in once the two-hour window concludes.

All council car parks will also remain free of charge.
North Cork Creameries, located in Kanturk, is not permitted to resume discharging effluent from the plants emission point SW1 into the River Allow until the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is satisfied of its compliance with regulations.

The EPA informed The Corkman that on the evening of Tuesday, November 11, exceedances were detected in effluent discharges from North Cork Creameries, which led to the creamery halting discharge from emission point SW1 - the final treated effluent discharge point into the River Allow.

The creamery then initiated a corrective action plan.

On November 14, the EPA issued a notice to North Cork Creameries in accordance with Section 97B of the EPA Act 1992, which directed the creamery to suspend discharges from SW1.

The notice dictates that the licensee, which is North Cork Creameries in this case, to take the necessary measures without delay to ensure that compliance with the conditions of the licence is restored in the shortest possible time and to the satisfaction of the EPA.

The licensee is required to furnish confirmation in writing to the EPA that compliance with the licence has been restored, and the EPA shall then give notice in writing to the licensee where it is satisfied to accept that confirmation, prior to any recommencement of the discharge.

North Cork Creameries is not currently discharging at SW1, and the EPA was awaiting a response from North Cork Creameries in relation to compliance at SW1, as of Thursday, November 27.

The Corkman has asked North Cork Creameries for comment.
Gardai are investigating after a stag was found beheaded and dismembered in a north Dublin park.

A Garda spokesperson said the matter is being treated as a reported incident of wildlife crime which occurred in the grounds of Newbridge House, Donabate, in the early hours of Thursday, November 27.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is also involved in the investigation.

The stag, part of the Irish Red Deer herd at Newbridge Demesne, was discovered by staff heading down to feed the herd of 16 deer.

Ivan Smith, foreman of works at Newbridge House and Traditional Farm, said staff were shocked and devastated.

Speaking on RTE Radio 1s Morning Ireland, he said: At this time of year the park closes at 5pm and all gates are locked. We have security in the house, it is well secured, but like I said it is a 270-acre park  its difficult to cover all eventualities. Its definitely worrying.

The stag killed on Wednesday in Donabate. Photo: Fingal County Council.

Today's News in 90 Seconds - Friday, November 28

He added that there are regular patrols and several park rangers on site during daylight hours.

The herd within the park is not very big and the rest of the deer are affected, Mr Smith said.

I went down there early this morning and theyre over in one corner of the enclosure where normally theyd be out front and coming over for feeding times.

"Theyre a big hit with the public coming in through the Donabate village gate. But this morning, you can see they definitely know that something has happened, he added.

A spokesperson for Fingal County Council described the killing as premeditated. We believe this was premeditated and we are appealing to anyone who noticed anything in the area to contact Gardai or the NPWS, they said.

Red deer are Irelands largest native deer species and wild land mammal. The species became extinct in Ireland around 10,500 years ago, with the only native population now found in Killarney National Park.

A mature stag has a large rack of antlers, often taken by hunters as a trophy. Mr Smith said he had no doubt the animal had been killed for its head. People take them to mount and they can go for big money.

"This is totally new to us and we are worried now for the other 15 deer. He was in control of the herd  they will notice and it will take them a while to settle.

Locals in Donabate expressed their disgust. One person said: Im sick to my stomach reading this, I have no words. Another said: Such a horrible thing to do. Hopefully cameras got something  I feel sorry for staff there too, especially the poor man who found him.

People Before Profit TD Ruth Coppinger described it as a disgusting act. It reaffirms the low value placed on animals in Ireland. The three big parties stand over animal abuse: hare coursing, greyhound racing and fox hunting. Lobby FF, FG and SF to allow a free vote on my Bill to ban fox hunting so we can start protecting animals in this country, she said.

Labour councillor for the area Corina Johnston condemned the act as absolutely shocking.

Fingal County Council is appealing to anyone with information to contact the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or email wildlifeenforcement@npws.gov.ie
Feature: Chinese cuisine gains popularity among Vietnamese people

Xinhua) 13:34, November 28, 2025

HANOI, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- At the International Culinary Culture Festival 2025 held in Vietnam's capital Hanoi last weekend, Chinese dishes attracted strong interest from local visitors, with the aroma of traditional Chinese dumplings filling the air around the stall.

Ngo Thuy Trang, a senior student in Hanoi, held a bowl of dumplings and said Chinese cuisine has already become part of her daily life.

"I've always loved Chinese food. I like spicy, slightly oily dishes with soft textures," she added. "They're very delicious."

Trang said she first learned about Chinese cuisine through social media and online food-eating videos, also known as mukbang videos.

"Since then, I've often searched for places that sell Chinese-style food so I can order it for home delivery, or sometimes I go directly to the restaurant to eat," she said.

She said the climate and regional culture have shaped the diversity of Chinese cuisine, which deeply fascinates her, and she hopes to travel to China one day to taste the authentic flavors.

The growing interest among young Vietnamese consumers points to rising potential for Chinese cuisine in Vietnam, said Wang Lihui, vice chairman of China Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam.

Wang emphasized that Vietnam offers huge market potential as it has a population of about 100 million people. "For that reason, I consider Vietnam a promising starting point for Chinese cuisine to expand overseas," he noted.

As the interest in Chinese food rises in Vietnam, several major Chinese food and beverage brands have already achieved significant business growth in this Southeast Asian country.

According to the data announced by Super Hi International, Haidilao, the Chinese hotpot chain, earned about 43.6 million U.S. dollars in Vietnam in the first half of 2025, accounting for more than ten percent of its global revenue.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Dublin City Council (DCC) will not be removing Tricolour flags erected around the city by anti-immigration activists, saying such a move would be counterproductive.

The issue has become a cultural flashpoint in recent months, with many anti-immigration activists encouraging their erection as a way of reclaiming our country, while opponents say they are weaponising the Tricolour as a tool of intimidation.

In response to residents and councillors who requested the flags be taken down, DCC consulted with stakeholders and Gardai to give an appropriate response, mindful of the feeling and opinions of communities across Dublin.

A council spokesperson said the authority had concluded its deliberations and decided on a positive and proactive approach to the issue.

"Working with local communities and civic partners, Dublin City Council will promote a deeper understanding of the Irish flag  its history, its meaning, and its enduring message of inclusion, equality and respect, they said.

The spokesperson said the Irish flag is a unifying symbol for all who call Dublin home, and that it represented peace, togetherness, and the shared responsibility we each have in building an inclusive and welcoming city."

DCC would continue to remove flags deemed to be a risk to public safety or a hazard, as part of its normal course of operations, they added.

Dublin is a city for everyone  a city where community, respect and belonging remain at the heart of all we do, the statement concluded.

Labour councillor Dermot Lacey said he really disliked the way the flag was currently flying around the city, but that he understood the councils view. Taking them down would just whip up a response, he said.

"I suppose what Id like to see is an honest information service about the flag. How it should be flown, why it shouldnt be displayed in a provocative manner, why it should be taken in at night.

He said hed like to see the council provide information about the symbol so that the temperature can be lowered, but that it was a real pity to see the flag hijacked in this way.

But independent councillor Malachy Steenson said the flags were not about intimidation, and were simply about national pride.

"Were not marking out certain areas, he said. Were mapping out the whole nation. Well have flags flying from Kerry to Donegal, to Antrim to Wexford.

If flags were taken down by the council, he said theyd be replaced multiple times over.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
Kerry councillors have expressed unanimous support for the enormously important Skellig Chocolates business as fears for its future grow.

Councillors at a Kenmare Municipal District (MD) meeting highlighted the liquidation threat to the Ballinskelligs-based firm and emphasised that every effort should be made to secure the factorys future.

It is understood that the Dun Laoghaire firm Resolute Advisory has applied to the High Court to have Seaclaidi na Sceilge Teoranta wound up, the company that operates the business.

The factory in St Finians Bay employs approximately 25 people and is one of Irelands leading high-end confectioners.

Make no mistake, its the very same as 250 jobs in a city. Anyone who knows the area knows that, said Councillor Johnny Healy-Rae at the MD meeting.

Its of huge significance to south Kerry, all these small thingsthey bring tourists in their own right or add to the experience.

Cllr Healy-Rae noted that the factory has a market worldwide and hoped it would have massive potential in the future.

I believe there can be a lot more done with it and I dont know anyone who doesnt like chocolate, he mused.

The company was established in 1996 and has seen growing popularity as a signature experience along the Wild Atlantic Way.

A notice in Iris Oifigiuil in November stated that Colin Gaynor is acting in his capacity as receiver of Fusion Excellence Ltd, the creditor of Seaclaidi na Sceilge Teoranta for the winding up by the High Court of the Company.

It is understood that the receiver was appointed to Fusion Ltd earlier this summer and that this company is the landlord to Seaclaidi na Sceilge Teoranta. Both are associated with Paddy McKillen Jnr's business interests.

Councillor Norma Moriarty, who has already expressed significant support for the company publicly, emphasised the importance of the business to the local area.

She said there was wonderful comradery amongst employees at the factory and cited a situation where one factory employee turned down a cushy office job to stay in the role they loved.

It is enormously important to the Gaeltacht community in Iveragh, to us in south-west Kerry and to the 25 families that are directly impacted in terms of jobs, she said.

Skellig chocolates really is a beacon of what is possible in rural Gaeltacht areas and I do want to commend Udaras na Gaeltachta that they are working very hard behind the scenes.

I would not be beating the drum to be putting time and money into a business if it was failing. This business is not failing. This is a solid, good business.

Kerry County Council said they are engaged, alongside Udaras na Gaeltachta, in ensuring the company is aware of all available supports.

As the MD meeting took place in the Ballingskelligs gteic, Uibh Rathach, a state of the art digital hub and co-working space, Cllr Moriarty highlighted the importance of the gteic and the factory to Gaeltacht reputation more broadly.

Two buildings that say most about the modern nature of Gaeltachts are this gteic and indeed the chocolate factory and we cannot see one of them close. Every effort should be made to ensure its future, she said.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting scheme
Kerry midwife who travelled by bicycle to deliver babies in London tower blocks in the 1970s retires

Maura Early recalls nursing and midwifery career in UK and Ireland.

Maura Earley (right) with her bicycle working as midwife in 1970s London.

Stephen Fernane Kerryman Fri 28 Nov 2025 at 06:31

Proof that a nurse is always a nurse is borne out by the longevity and ethical philosophy of Maura Earley who is officially retiring after a career spanning 50 years.
The community of Calry are rallying around the family of a local man who died unexpectedly in Poland at the age of 34.

A Go Fund Me campaign has been launched to assist the family of Mark McGoldrick who died of a heart attack in Poland where he lived with his partner, Kami.

Heartfelt tributes have been paid to Mr McGoldrick who was a native of Keelogoboy, Calry. His funeral will take place this week-end.

Mark passed away on Monday 17 November unexpectedly from a sudden heart attack in Katowice. He is survived by his heartbroken partner Kami and parents Mary and Gerry, his siblings Arlene (Raymond), David (Fiona) and Debbie (Eoin) and other family in Poland and extended family and friends.

Calry Drama group cancelled its annual pantomime which was due to be performed on Thursday, Friday and Saturday this week.

In a statement the group extended its sincere condolences to the McGoldrick family. Marks mother, Mary is a member of the group.

A GoFundMe page said up by David McGoldrick said Mark had built a beautiful life in Poland over the past 10 years, where he lived happily with his girlfriend Kami.

"He was a kind, warm, and generous soul who touched the lives of everyone he met. His laughter, his love for family, and his kind spirit will never be forgotten.

"Mark leaves behind his girlfriend Kami, parents Mary and Gerry, his brother David, and his sisters Arlene and Debbie. Our hearts are broken, and we are devastated by this unexpected loss.

"As a family, we are now faced with the difficult process of repatriating Marks body home to Ireland, so that he can rest in peace in the land he was born. This is something we never imagined having to do.

"We are asking for your support to help us bring Mark home. Any contribution, no matter how small, will make a difference and help ease this burden during such an unimaginable time.

"Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and for keeping Marks memory alive. Please share this page with others who knew and loved him.

"All funds raised will go directly towards repatriation costs and funeral arrangements in Ireland. Any surplus, a donation will be made in Mark's name to the Kevin Bell Trust.

To date, over 11,000 has been raised of a 12,000 target.

Mark will repose at Nazareth House Chapel, Church Hill, Sligo on Saturday 29th from 6 pm-8 pm, with removal to Saint Patrick's church, Calry arriving at 9 pm.

Mass of Christian burial will take place in St. Patrick's Church, Calry on Sunday, 30th November at 1 pm with cremation to follow at Lakelands Crematorium, Cavan at 4.30 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Mark McGoldrick Repatriation Fund www.gofundme.com/f/mark-mcgoldrick. Any surplus donations will be donated to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust in Mark's name.

Interment of Mark's remains to take place on Monday, 1st December in Clogher New Cemetery at 11am.
Victim was aged 7 to 10 and defendant was 14 to 18

A Leitrim man who has worked as a carer has been jailed for six years for the repeated rape and sexual assault of his young niece over 40 years ago.

Sean McDonald (62) of Tawneymachugh, Manorhamilton, Co Leitrim pleaded guilty at the Central Criminal Court last July to 11 representative counts relating to the rape and sexual assault of a child from 1977 to 1982. Christina Elliott was aged 7 to 11 during this period, while McDonald was 14 to 18.

The abuse took place during visits by Ms Elliott and her family to her mothers family home in Glencar, Co Leitrim, and McDonald was left to babysit Ms Elliott and other children. Dominic McGinn SC, prosecuting, told Justice Melanie Greally that the complainant wished to waive her anonymity so that McDonald could be publicly named. He said that Ms Elliott was happy for her own name to be published, and the sentence hearing was held in an open courtroom.

Members of Ms Elliots immediate family were in court, as were members of McDonalds immediate family. Ms Elliot now lives in Scotland, the court heard.

Justice Greally said that the case the abuse encompassed a broad range of sexual violations which were carried out with regularity over a period of just over five years.

She said that the extreme youth of the victim, the age difference, and the breach of trust were aggravating factors in the case. She noted the fact that the abuse took place in her grandparents home, a place which should have afforded safety to a child. Justice Greally noted that the immense and immeasurable harm caused to the injured party by the offending.

She noted that a Probation Service assessment states that McDonald is at a low risk of reoffending but does not show any insight into the impact of his behaviour. The report identified a reluctance by the defendant to speak about the harm he has caused. It further stated that he tended to minimise the impact of his conduct and attributed it to immaturity and sexual exploration. Justice Greally said that while the likely initial motive for the abuse may have been sexual curiosity, the later continued assaults were manifestly conducted for sexual gratification. Desmond Dockery SC, defending, handed nine-character references on affidavit from family members and some local supporters of McDonald, including a former chairman of St Osnats GAA club in Glencar.

Justice Greally said these were evidence that in his adult life McDonald had made a substantial positive contribution to his local community and that he enjoys the continued support and affection of his family.

She said she accepted that the guilty pleas had spared the victim the further trauma of giving evidence in a trial and were a public acknowledgement of his wrongdoing.

But she said she could give him minimal credit for remorse as he has no true appreciation or understanding of the harm he has caused.

She set a headline sentence of 18 years, which she reduced to seven years to take into account the fact that McDonald was a minor for most of the period of the offending. She suspended the final year on condition that McDonald engage with offence-focused work under the Probation Service. Detective Garda Lydia Cawley told the court that the victims mother is originally from Leitrim but had moved to Scotland. During family visits to the victims grandparents in Leitrim, the defendant would often be left to babysit the victim and older children. She was aged seven when McDonald began sexually assaulting her by touching her private parts. He would also force her to let him carry out sex acts on her. Dt Gda Cawley said that she was unable to say how many times McDonald assaulted her, but that it took place whenever her grandparents were out of the house and sometimes when they were sleeping. She testified that the abuse escalated to full rape on two occasions. She later agreed with Desmond Dockery SC, defending, that there was no evidence of whether McDonald carried out the rape while he was still a juvenile or after he had turned 18. All the offending ended in August 1982 when a cousin of the victim began sleeping in the same room as her, and he no longer had undetected access to the child, Justice Greally said. The victim made a formal complaint to the police in Scotland in February 2021, and they contacted the gardai.

Gardai questioned McDonald in June 2023, and he denied ever babysitting the victim and said that her allegations were lies and nonsense. McDonald was charged with two counts of rape and 90 counts of indecent assault. A trial was set to start on July 9 when McDonald pleaded guilty to 11 representative counts.

He pleaded guilty on that day to one charge of rape and ten counts of indecent assault on unknown dates between October 1977 and August 1982. In her victim impact statement, read out by Dt Gda Cawley, the victim said the abuse left her feeling disgusting and vile as a child.

She said she continues to struggle with the trauma and suffers flashbacks, depression and nightmares as a result of the abuse.

She said the abuse left her struggling with her mental health as a teenager and affected her later relationships with her children and grandchildren.
Pupils, teachers and parents beside the site of the promised new school on Friday morning

The Board of Management of Gaelscoil Chnoc na Re, the only gaelscoil in County Sligo, has issued an urgent appeal to the Minister for Education and Youth, Hildegarde Naughton to rescue a long-promised school building project that has now fallen years behind schedule.

Founded in 1996, Gaelscoil Chnoc na Re continues to operate from the grounds of a GAA club  St Marys alongside ageing prefabricated classroomsaccommodation described as manifestly inadequate. Despite the Department of Education acquiring a site in 2020 and the appointment of consultants, progress has stalled.

Earlier today, over 200 children and staff walked the short distance from the current school site to the location of the long-promised new building. The demonstration was organised to highlight the communitys growing frustration at the absence of any progress.

Board Chairperson Bartley O Gabhain said the turnout showed the strength of feeling among pupils, families and staff:

For nearly three decades, our school community has shown extraordinary patience. But patience cannot replace classrooms. The children of Gaelscoil Chnoc na Re deserve a safe, modern school buildingnothing less.

Under the Departments own ADAPT 3 Schools Programme, a planning application is to be lodged within 13 months of the Design Teams appointment, with construction commencing 24 months after that appointment. Yet: 29 months have passed since the Design Team appointment, in reality, 42 months since the appointment of the first consultant.

Stage 1 took twice as long as allowed. No planning application is anywhere in sight.

These are not marginal delays, said Priomhoide Micheal O Broin.

The ADAPT 3 programme was specifically designed to accelerate delivery for schools like ours, and for that reason, performance timeframes are set down for the delivery of each stage. Instead, we have seen these timeframes consistently ignored, with no accountability. It is simply not good enough.

The delays come at a high cost to the taxpayer. The Department spends 181,000 annually on rented temporary accommodation, the very issue ADAPT 3 has been put in place to resolve. Treasurer Ann Hickey noted: Every year, 181,000 is spent on rent for temporary accommodation. This is not only inefficientit is indefensible. That money should be invested in a permanent school for our children, not wasted because of systemic delays.

Parents and staff say the current situation is limiting what children can achieve. Parent Association Chairperson Zara Kelly said: Our pupils are learning in prefabs older than many of the children themselves. The facilities restrict what teachers can do every single day. It is deeply disheartening to see progress continually stall.

Staff member Muinteoir Yvonne added: Despite our limited facilities, our teachers and pupils achieve extraordinary things. Imagine what they could do in a purpose-built school designed for 21st-century learning.

The Board also highlights complete communication failures, including the need to resort to Freedom of Information requests, inconsistent updates, and prolonged indecision on issues such as parking and set-down.

Priomhoide O Broin added: We have engaged constructively at every step, yet essential information is not forthcoming, and communication has been inconsistent. A project of this importance requires transparency, discipline, and urgency. A new school is not just an investment in buildingsit is an investment in the future of Irish-language education in County Sligo. We cannot allow that future to be jeopardised by preventable delays.

While acknowledging that many of the failures predate the Ministers recent appointment, the Board has formally requested a meeting with Minister Naughton.

We are asking for direct intervention to ensure this straightforward and much-needed project is finally put back on track, said Mr O Gabhain. Without a serious intervention, we are looking at a repeat of the Childrens Hospital fiasco, albeit on a lower scale of expenditure
Padraic Vallely, Rethink Ireland; Ed Murphy, Wexford Chamber & Greentech HQ; Deirdre Mortell, Rethink Ireland, and Jerry Buttimer TD, Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht and at the Department of Transport, pictured at the launch of Rethink Irelands Impact Fund 2025 on board A.K. Ilen at Kinsale Yacht Club Marina, Cork. Picture: Michael O'Sullivan / OSM PHOTO

A major new investment in community-led innovation has been announced this week, with Wexford placed firmly at the forefront of Rethink Irelands newly launched Impact Fund 2025.

The 1.1 million fund will support eight high-impact initiatives across Wexford and Munster over the next two years, driving social inclusion, wellbeing and environmental resilience at a local level.

This years fund highlights the key role of Wexford philanthropy and leadership, with Ed Murphy  Wexford entrepreneur and founder of GreenTechHQ  serving as one of the primary fund partners helping to bring the initiative to life. His commitment ensures that community-led innovation in Wexford is given equal prominence and opportunity alongside Munster-based projects.

Rethink Ireland, in partnership with the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht and a collective of philanthropic donors, will provide financial support and capacity building to up to eight organisations delivering transformative work in their communities.

Impact Fund 2025 is delivered in partnership with: The Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, The Parkes Family, Limerick, The Estate of Mary Coffey c/o Pat Toomey, Tipperary, The Hospital Saturday Fund, The Luan Fund, Cork, Ed Murphy, Wexford, Turas Nua, and The Ireland Funds.

Speaking at the launch, Minister of State Jerry Buttimer TD said: This fund is a partnership in action with government, philanthropy, organisations and communities working together. Every county, including here in Wexford, has pockets of disadvantage, and the most effective response is targeted, place-based support. Impact Fund 2025 will put resources where they can have the greatest effect, empowering local people to deliver inclusion, wellbeing and climate resilience from the ground up.

Deirdre Mortell, CEO of Rethink Ireland, emphasised the depth of innovation already present across the south of Ireland.

Since 2016, Rethink Ireland has invested over 15.8 million to support more than 150 projects in the Munster region. Weve seen extraordinary creativity in communities right across the country, including Wexford. Previous versions of the Impact Fund proved that when you trust communities to lead, the results speak for themselvesfrom schools pioneering climate education to young women building confidence and connection. Impact Fund 2025 underscores the power of investing in local solutions to deliver national impact, she explained.

Past awardee Colin Healy, co-founder of Sailing into Wellness, has encouraged organisations across Wexford to seize the opportunity.

"Thanks to the support of Rethink Ireland, weve been able to bring our therapeutic sailing programmes to those who need it most. This funding has turned our vision into action, using the sea as a unique setting to deliver wellbeing, inclusion and transformation for people who might not otherwise have access. We encourage organisations in Wexford and Munster to apply for the Impact Fund 2025 and benefit from the critical investment and capacity building it provides, he said.

Organisations across Wexford and Munster are invited to apply before Friday, January 16 at 1 p.m. via Rethink Irelands website. Awardees will receive up to 96,000 over two years, along with strategic business supports.
Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD at the official opening of Tobair Cormaic in Tagoat on Thursday. Pic: Jim Campbell

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD cutting the ribbon at the official opening of Tobair Cormaic in Tagoat on Thursday. Pic: Jim Campbell

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD and Cathaoirleach of Rosslare Municipal District Cllr Ger Carthy pictured with local residents Patricia Boyne, Coleen Flood, Marian Flood and Billy O'Reilly at the official opening of Tobair Cormaic in Tagoat on Thursday. Pic: Jim Campbell

The first design-build housing scheme in Co Wexford has been officially opened by Housing Minister James Browne TD. Designed completely in-house by Wexford County Councils (WCC) architects, the 18-unit scheme in Tagoat was first proposed in 2019 but was thereafter delayed due to the presence of Japanese knotweed at the site.

However, all that was forgotten as Minister Browne visited his home county to cut the ribbon on Tobair Cormaic which was built by Enniscorthy company Kevin Thorpe Contractors.

Its fantastic to see these homes completed and residents moving in, I was here when they were being built and you could see the quality of craftsmanship that was going into them at the time, and you can see the result of that work today, said Minister Browne.

This is what its all about, providing homes for people to live safely and securely; this is now their community and they will go on to develop long-lasting relationships with their new neighbours.

Referencing the methodology used in delivering the houses, the Minister said the team at WCC was setting the standards for the rest of the country.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD cutting the ribbon at the official opening of Tobair Cormaic in Tagoat on Thursday. Pic: Jim Campbell

This scheme is an exemplar for the whole country on what we can produce  homes delivered at speed but with quality. And because theyre A-rated the residents dont have to worry about spending large amounts on keeping their homes warm, WCC is stepping up to the mark in delivering housing, if every county across the country was delivering at the same pace wed be challenging the housing crisis.

While Minister Browne was very complimentary of the team at WCC, including director of housing Carolyne Godkin and county architect Shay Howell, the chief executive said no-one within the organisation would be resting on their laurels as they sought to tackle the housing crisis.

We are committed to maximising our delivery here in Co Wexford and the targets set under Housing For All we see as the minimal number we can achieve, said Eddie Taaffe. Our target from 2022-26 was to build 1150 social houses between ourselves and the approved housing bodies, and were confident of delivering 1500 houses in that period, which would be 30 pc over our target.

"We look forward to delivering a similar number over the next five years and, in addition, we will continue to increase our supply of affordable housing; we hope to have a lot more of those schemes throughout the county available for purchase in the coming years, we will have more announcements to that end in the near future, particularly in the Gorey area.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD at the official opening of Tobair Cormaic in Tagoat on Thursday. Pic: Jim Campbell

Cathaoirleach of WCC, Councillor Joe Sullivan praised the commitment of the members of the Rosslare Municipal District for their work in getting the project over the line, and said the overall landscape for housing had changed considerably during his time as a public representative.

When I first became a councillor in 2014 there was nothing being built, but now were delivering housing projects all over the county on a regular basis. This is a great day for the Rosslare district.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.
Official complaint lodged with the HSE over distressing incident

An official complaint has been made to the HSE following an incident on a ward at Wexford General Hospital which saw an elderly woman allegedly assaulted in her bed and other patients verbally abused, terrified and distressed over the course of a prolonged incident that lasted more than three hours.
The concern was one of several issues raised by representatives of the Codling Wind Park and SSE Renewables during a networking event, driven by Wicklow County Council and the East Coast Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Network, which took place recently at the Arklow Bay Hotel.

A planning decision on Irelands largest offshore wind farm, Codling Wind Park, could be delayed until later next year after An Coimisiun Pleanala made a 70-page further information request, covering habitat loss and concerns raised by the Irish Coast Guard.

Codling Wind Park will have a capacity of up to 1,300 megawatts (MW) and will be able to supply more than one million Irish homes with renewable energy. It will be located between 13 to 22km off the Wicklow coast and will connect to the Irish grid at Poolbeg in Dublin.

The project will also reduce Irish energy generation emissions and displace over 1.7 million tonnes of carbon.

The project alone accounts for just over one quarter of Irelands entire 2030 target for grid connected offshore energy. It is 50/50 joint venture between Fred. Olsen Seawind and EDF Renewables.

The application was initially lodged in September 2024, with the expectation that the planning authority would make a ruling this year. However, the further information request means any responses should be made no later than May 11, 2026.

Under the further information request, the applicant is now requested to clearly note any proposed amendments to the Environmental Impact Assessment Report, Natura Impact Statement and other documentation submitted, and cross reference clearly the revised/new information across the submitted documentation as appropriate".

The applicant has also been requested to provide further information on the potential spatial extent of habitat lost and the potential spatial extent of habitat adversely effected.

They have also been requested to consult with the Irish Coast Guard, who through the Department of Transport, has raised concerns in relation to the layout of the proposed development with respect to search and rescue access.

Speaking during the event commercial manager with Codling Mark Fisher indicted they are working to respond to the request.

We have a deadline of the end of May to submit the required documentation and we are working towards that. I do have a concern that the time needed to review our submission might further delay this key project for the region.

Meanwhile construction works on the Arklow Bank Wind Park phase 2 could start in 2026, subject to planning consent and a final investment decision by SSE.

The energy producer lodged a planning application with An Bord Pleanala in June 2024 for offshore infrastructure needed for its planned second windfarm off the Wicklow coast.

If delivered, SSE Renewables will be looking to deliver commercial scale offshore wind at Arklow Bank, which dates back almost 20 years to when the first seven turbines were installed at the site and became Irelands first and only operational offshore wind farm.

Operations Manager with SSE Kaj Christiansen believes the project will deliver significant economic benefit of up to 800m to the local region.

Participants at the East Coast ORE Event with presentation by Kaj Christiansen, SSE. Photo Mick Kelly

Around 400m of which will be local to the Wicklow and Wexford region. 2,300 direct and indirect jobs are also expected to be supported throughout its delivery and operational lifetime.

We recognise we have to wait for planning consent first, but its hoped that planning approval will come through the system soon and its anticipated

if they rule in our favour that the construction phase will begin in 2026 or 27, with first power expected by 2030.

Kaj says the wind farm will play a key part in helping us meet our climate action targets.

Once operational, the offshore wind farm would be capable of producing enough renewable energy to displace over 800,000 metric tons of harmful carbon emissions annually while powering the equivalent of around 850,000 homes each year. he added.

However, a group of residents in Arklow believe plans to locate the sizeable wind farm on a local sandbank, just 6km off the coast, poses a major threat to beaches across Wicklow and Wexford.

The South East Coastal Protection Alliance (SECPA) believe the proposals from SSE Renewables to erect up to 56 super-sized wind turbines along the coast will have a detrimental impact on the 27km long sandbank.

The sandbank runs parallel to the coast and provides protection to the scenic beaches and towns along the shore from storms and Atlantic swells which can cause flooding.

At 287 metres tall, the proposed turbines will be comparable to the Eiffel Tower. The proposals would see 2.6 million tonnes of solid matter being poured onto the sandbank, effectively levelling an area of 986 acres.

The SECPA feel the erosion of specific areas of coastline (particularly the southern end of Brittas Bay beach) suggests that the existing seven turbines off the coast of Arklow, less than 125m tall and sited 13km from shore, have already had a targeted detrimental effect.

By revising the location, we can all benefit from Irelands commitment to renewable energy and preserve the outstanding natural beauty of our beaches and sand dunes. a SECPA spokesperson said in a statement.

The Arklow sandbank is listed under Annex 1 of the EU Habitats Directive as it is intrinsically linked to the wellbeing and survival of hundreds of species of wildlife.

SECPA feel these issues can be avoided by moving the proposed development off the sandbank and further out to sea, while otherwise remaining exactly as it is designed.

We are calling for the current SSE submission to be rejected and for any future permission to be considered only on condition that any such project is sited within the internationally accepted demarcation line for offshore wind turbines of all sizes which is at least 22km offshore.

In response, SSE Renewables said an Environmental Impact Assessment Report, which forms part of the planning application submitted in June 2024, addresses many of the issues raised by SECPA.

In a statement, SSE Renewables said they had provided an accurate, scientific and fact-based assessment of the environmental impacts.

Meanwhile In April 2025 An Bord Pleanala asked developers of all wind farms along the Irish Sea to revise their planning applications to consider the cumulative effect of other similar wind farms proposed for the Irish Sea.

The request sent to the developers of the Oriel, Arklow and North Irish Sea wind farms on April 17 is likely to have a significant impact, if it is extended to the Codling and Dublin Array wind farms.

Between them, both wind farms form a 33km line of wind turbines from Dun Laoghaire to Wicklow town.

The Codling and Dublin Array turbines would dwarf Bray Head, which happens to be tallest item on the east coast. The Dublin Array site is 9km off the coast at Greystones and the Codling Bank site is between 13km and 22km south of that, off the coast of Wicklow.

The ORE Network event was a lively and engaging affair, which also saw government agencies and educational institutions, engaged in discussions and networking.

Their attendance and contribution emphasised the shared commitment to realising the transformative potential of ORE on the East Coast.

Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council Cllr Melanie Corrigan remarked on the level of energy and engagement demonstrated at the event.

Seeing so many key stakeholders, from local businesses to major developers, actively planning for the green transition confirms that we are on the right path.

This event has forged a clear, tangible pathway for our communities, strengthening relationships and access to the diverse range of opportunities the ORE industry will deliver for Wicklow, from job creation to local investment."

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
Rush hour in Jakarta, Indonesia, yesterday, as the UN determines that it's the most populous city in the world in 2025. Photo: Getty

Indonesias capital of Jakarta has overtaken Tokyo as the worlds most populous megacity, with almost 42 million inhabitants.

The dense and sinking citys dramatic growth has been driven, in part, by mass migration, but largely because of a change in the ways urban populations are counted.

According to the UNs World Urbanisation Prospects 2025 report, Tokyo, with 33 million people, has now dropped to third, while Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, is second with 37 million.

When the report was last published in 2018, Jakarta was listed as 33rd with 11 million people, and Tokyo  which includes three neighbouring prefectures  first with 37 million.

The drastic shift in the rankings is mostly the result of a new methodology. UN researchers previously relied on official national statistics which used varied metrics. This time, more consistent criteria was used to categorise cities, towns and rural areas.

For Jakarta, the new method counted 30 million more people living in the city, which spreads along the north-western coast of the island Java. The previous official national statistics excluded many of the densely populated communities that are connected to the city centre, the report said.

The citys rapid population growth has been fuelled by both rural to urban migration by those looking for better jobs, wages and education, as well as informal migration. Indonesia has become a major transit country for those fleeing conflict and instability, including from Afghanistan, Somalia, Iraq and Myanmar.

However, Jakartas rapid overpopulation has put severe pressure on its infrastructure. It has contributed to a gridlocked city, thick with pollution.

The city is sinking as much as 11 inches a year, with some parts already below sea level. In 2022, Indonesia began building a new city, Nusantara, in the jungles of Borneo to eventually replace Jakarta. ( Telegaph Media Group Holdings Ltd)
Your job here is not to fight one another, it is to fight this climate crisis, UN climate chief tells Cop30 in Brazil
JP Morgan to build massive new HQ in Londons Canary Wharf

New tower will house 12,000 staff and is twice the size of Britains tallest building, The Shard

An artist's impression of the new JP Morgan development in London's Canary Wharf. Photo: PA

Iain Withers Reuters Fri 28 Nov 2025 at 06:30

JP Morgan will build a huge new tower in the Canary Wharf financial district in east London, the US banking giant said yesterday, investing billions of pounds in Britain on the heels of a UK budget that sought to boost growth.
Sophie White: Its almost Christmas and my husband and I are at each others throats. But if were arguing at least it means were not Quiet Divorcing
Switzerland struck a new tariff deal with the US after a delegation of Swiss business leaders met with President Donald Trump. Photo: AP

Two Swiss politicians asked prosecutors to examine whether gifts by Swiss business leaders to US president Donald Trump, including a Rolex watch and a gold bar, violated Switzerland's anti-bribery laws, although a source close to the delegation said they complied with the laws of both countries.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced the resignation of his chief of staff Andrii Yermak, whose residence was searched earlier in the day by anti-corruption investigators.

Mr Yermak has been Ukraine's lead negotiator in peace talks with Russia and the US, and he has been a trusted confidante of Mr Zelensky for years.
Who is Andrii Yermak? Zelenskys deal maker and Kyivs Green Cardinal who resigned after police raid in corruption probe

Yermak has been substantially involved in the peace talks to bring the war to an endEarlier this week, he was fronting discussions in Geneva with the US secretary of state Marco Rubio Since Zelenskys election victory in 2019, the pair have been inseparable, particularly after Russias invasion of Ukraine

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and Head of the Presidential Office Andriy Yermak walk, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine January 22, 2024. REUTERS/Gleb Garanich/File Photo

Olivia Ireland UK Independent Fri 28 Nov 2025 at 19:41

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskys chief of staff Andrii Yermak resigned on Friday after anti-corruption police raided his home.
Israeli authorities said they are investigating the shooting

Israeli soldiers hold a blanket to cover the scene of a shooting during a raid in Jenin in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, November 27, 2025. REUTERS/Mohamad Torokman.

Israeli security forces shot two Palestinian men on Thursday who appeared to be surrendering and unarmed during a raid in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, Palestine TV news footage showed.

In the footage, the men are seen exiting a building surrounded by armed Israeli forces in the northern West Bank city of Jenin, lifting their shirts and lying on the ground in an apparent surrender. The forces then appeared to direct the men back inside the building before opening fire at close range.
LATEST | Trump vows to freeze migration from Third World Countries after DC attack; one of the National Guard members shot dies

Trump to end federal benefits for non-citizensTrump plans to denaturalise migrants undermining domestic tranquilityAfghan immigrant involved in National Guard attack entered US under Biden programTrump calls for reverse migration to reduce illegal population

President Donald Trump speaks to reporters after speaking to troops via video from his Mar-a-Lago estate (Alex Brandon/AP)

Rishabh Jaiswal and Shivani Tanna Reuters Fri 28 Nov 2025 at 07:44

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday his administration will "permanently pause" migration from all "Third World Countries", following an attack near the White House he attributed to Biden-era immigration vetting failures.
( Image credit : Instagram| @ryanreynolds (R), @justinbaldoni| Ryan Reynolds and Justin Baldoni amid rising tensions )

Why Taylor Swifts name keeps reappearing

( Image credit : Instagram| @taylorswift| Taylor Swift shines in every moment. )

( Image credit : Instagram| @taylorswift (R), @hughjackman| Taylor Swift & Hugh Jackman through the years )

( Image credit : Instagram| @blakelively| A glimpse of Blake Livelys signature style. )

A courtroom showdown stacked with star power

( Image credit : Instagram| Emily Blunt, Gigi Hadid, and Scooter Braun in focus )

What began as a behind-the-scenes disagreement on the set ofhas evolved into one of the most talked-about celebrity disputes of the year, and the latest court filings suggest the drama reached far beyond the studio. Newly released documents claim Ryan Reynolds confronted director Justin Baldoni in a heated exchange over remarks allegedly made about Blake Lively, with Taylor Swift and Hugh Jackman said to have been present when the confrontation occurred.According to an internal timeline referenced in the legal case, the incident unfolded in April 2023 at Reynolds and Livelys New York residence. The document alleges that Reynolds challenged Baldoni for enquiring about Livelys weight during production, a line of questioning the actor reportedly viewed as inappropriate and hurtful. The meeting is described as emotionally charged, leaving Baldoni apologetic and visibly shaken- a detail Baldonis legal team later characterised as exaggerated and unfair.Although she had no role in the film beyond granting permission to use one of her songs, Swift has found herself repeatedly mentioned as the court case expands. The newly unsealed material claims she and Hugh Jackman happened to be in the couples penthouse during Reynolds confrontation, placing two of Hollywoods most recognisable figures inadvertently in the middle of a dispute they never intended to be part of.Swifts representatives have consistently pushed back against any implication that she was involved in the production, making clear she never visited the set, reviewed scripts, or provided creative notes. They argue that attempts to involve her, including a previously issued subpoena- are less about necessity and more about the publicity value of attaching her name to the case. The court ultimately ruled she could not be compelled to give evidence within the current timeline.Lively, meanwhile, launched her lawsuit in late 2024, accusing Baldoni of harassment, inappropriate conduct, and undermining her professionalism by making private criticisms about her body. One of the most striking claims is that Baldoni contacted her trainer without her consent, allegedly suggesting she lose weight rapidly for certain scenes. Baldoni has rejected these allegations, insisting his outreach was solely linked to his own physical limitations during choreography for the film.As preparations continue for the March 2026 trial, the list of potential witnesses has grown to include several well-known figures such as Emily Blunt, Gigi Hadid and Scooter Braun. Lively herself is expected to testify, which is likely to draw additional public attention.With so many prominent names connected to the dispute, whether directly or by circumstance, the upcoming court proceedings are shaping up to be just as closely followed as the film that set everything in motion.
BBC

( Image credit : Instagram| @kevinspacey| Kevin Spacey pictured outdoors. )

Claims involving theatre workshops, repeated allegations and a public accuser

( Image credit : Instagram| @kevinspacey| Kevin Spacey captured in a candid moment. )

Career revival and public remarks amid legal battles





Cannes Film Festival

( Image credit : Instagram| @kevinspacey| Kevin Spacey pictured at a recent public appearance )

Kevin Spacey is once again set to return to the spotlight of the British legal system, as three men have launched fresh civil claims accusing the actor of sexual assault. The allegations, reported by the, span more than a decade and relate to incidents said to have taken place between 2000 and 2013.The new cases come years after Spacey was cleared of criminal charges in the UK and a separate civil case brought against him in the United States. Despite those previous verdicts, the legal scrutiny surrounding the actor is far from over.During a recent hearing, a judge suggested October 2026 as the likely date for the High Court trial. The claims may be heard together or in three consecutive proceedings, depending on the courts final decision.The first claimant, known only by the initials LNP, alleges that Spacey deliberately assaulted him on roughly a dozen occasions between 2000 and 2005. The accusations suggest a repeated pattern of unwanted contact over several years.A second man, identified as GHI, says he encountered the actor while attending a workshop at Londons Old Vic theatre, where Spacey served as artistic director from 2004 to 2013. GHI alleges he was assaulted in 2008 and claims the incident caused long-term psychiatric harm as well as financial losses. He originally filed a civil claim in 2022, but proceedings were paused while Spacey faced his 2023 criminal trial.The third claimant, Ruari Cannon, has spoken publicly about his allegations and appeared in Channel 4s 2024 documentary. Cannon claims he was groped at an after-show party at the Old Vic in 2013 following his performance in. Spacey has dismissed Cannons account, describing it as ridiculous and insisting the alleged incident never happened.These claims form the latest addition to a long and complex legal history. Spacey has previously been accused by more than a dozen men. In 2023, he was acquitted of all nine criminal charges brought by four complainants in London. The year before, a New York jury found Spacey not liable in a civil case brought by actor Anthony Rapp, who alleged he was assaulted in 1986 at the age of 14. Spacey denied the claim.Despite years of legal turbulence, Spacey has cautiously resumed his career. In May, he was honoured with a lifetime achievement award at the Better World Fund gala during the. Accepting the award, he told the audience, Its very nice to be back Im glad to be working. He also referenced his long-time friend Elton John with a pointed remark: Im still standing, before leaving the stage to applause.Now that Spacey is once again caught in the swirl of fresh allegations, the coming years will reveal how these cases unfold and what they ultimately mean for his future.
Akaash Singh shares personal struggles to defend Jasleen

Akaash Singh opened up about his wife Jasleen at his recent stand-up comedy show & told a story of her still being by his side when he was BROKE and HOMELESS 









pic.twitter.com/rOYyW89KUI









 Slime (@ItsKingSlime) November 27, 2025

( Image credit : Instagram/akaashsingh | Akaash Singh shares personal struggles to defend Jasleen. )

Backlash as Akaash's defense of Jasleen goes viral

@AkaashSingh stop with the BS bro, you were never homeless,stop insulting homeless people you piece of s#!t , you're a disgrace and a fvcken loser, men like you are a danger to society









 Knoxman (@blacksuspect2k) November 28, 2025

Nobody wanna hear this shit at a comedy show somebody shoulda thrown a tomato at him









 KJ Crypto (@koreanjewcrypto) November 28, 2025

Dude was never homeless. He came from an Indian family . Hes saying whatever to mitigate damage for the wife









 A smith (@Asmith1641950) November 28, 2025

Story would be more believable if she wasn't humiliating him on internet regularly.









 Solair (@UrbanNaxali) November 27, 2025

Akaash Singh vs Myron Gaines: The ongoing feud

My man out here getting triggered by jokes. How ironic. Well don't worry about me, Myron. I got no issue putting a bitch in her place. For example: https://t.co/RIjv07xzw2 pic.twitter.com/zqQkx1eUpy









 Akaash Singh (@AkaashSingh) November 7, 2025

Comedian Akaash Singh has once again stepped into the spotlight defending his wife Jasleen Singh, whose recent feud with Fresh and Fit podcaster Myron Gaines has gone viral. After Jasleen's candid remarks on the Main Character podcast sparked online backlash, every action by the couple quickly became trending fodder.Social media erupted after Jasleen criticized "broke" men for their judgments, delivering a fiery response that ignited the ongoing controversy. Akaash's attempts to stand by his wife have, however, been met with trolls and online criticism.During a recent stand-up performance, Akaash opened up about his wife and revealed the sacrifices Jasleen made while he was broke and homeless."We met in 2014. I was making $25 a night doing stand-up. By 2018, I was completely broke - $4,000 for the entire year. We couldn't afford our apartment in New York City and had to stay on her friends couch for a month. And yet she stayed with me. That night, she laid her head on my chest and held me. That's when I realized this woman loves me more than I could ever deserve."Akaash detailed the struggles of their early relationship, emphasizing Jasleen's loyalty and support through financial hardship and homelessness, underscoring that labels like "gold digger" were completely unfounded.Despite his heartfelt story, many online users dismissed Akaash's attempt to defend his wife, continuing to label Jasleen a 'gold digger'. The viral clip sparked intense debate on X (formerly Twitter), with fans divided over the authenticity of his defense.The backlash comes amid the heated feud between Akaash Singh and Myron Gaines, which has dominated social media headlines. Akaash fired back at Gaines using his Flagrant 2 podcast with Andrew Schulz, sharing: "My man out here getting triggered by jokes. How ironic. Well don't worry about me, Myron. I got no issue putting a b**h in her place."The feud highlights the clash between comedians in the age of viral social media, where personal life, loyalty, and online trolling collide.




Others pushed a darker idea that he or someone connected to him had looked up victim Sarah Beckstrom days before the attack. None of these theories have been proven, yet the speed at which they spread shows how easily tragedy turns into speculation.



Internet believes Rahmanullah Lakanwal was tied to CIA funded units in Afghanistan One reason these theories exploded so quickly is that confirmed details about Lakanwals past do exist. Government officials have said he once worked with a partner force in Afghanistan. That unit was part of a larger network that worked alongside American intelligence during the long war. Once this became public, social media grabbed it and ran with it.



( Image credit : X/@DailyAlert | Government officials have said he once worked with a partner force in Afghanistan )



Rahmanullah Lakanwal worked with the CIA. You can't make this up. pic.twitter.com/q6Dvh9dU3y





 Sabby Sabs (@SabbySabs2) November 27, 2025 The shooting near the White House created a heartbreaking story and a huge online storm at the same time. Within hours of the attack, social media filled with claims that suspect Rahmanullah Lakanwal is more than just an Afghan asylum seeker with a violent motive. Many users began calling him a CIA asset, pointing to his past in a CIA supported Afghan paramilitary group.Others pushed a darker idea that he or someone connected to him had looked up victim Sarah Beckstrom days before the attack. None of these theories have been proven, yet the speed at which they spread shows how easily tragedy turns into speculation.One reason these theories exploded so quickly is that confirmed details about Lakanwals past do exist. Government officials have said he once worked with a partner force in Afghanistan. That unit was part of a larger network that worked alongside American intelligence during the long war. Once this became public, social media grabbed it and ran with it.People online framed it in dramatic ways. One user wrote, So he was trained by the same people he turned on. This sounds like a movie. Another reacted, If he worked with those units, people will spin about CIA links forever.

Netizens link Rahmanullah Lakanwal to shooting victim Sarah Beckstrom

( Image credit : X/@KAGdrogo | Another wave of viral posts focused on a strange idea that someone looked up Beckstroms name online before the attack )

She was googled in Israel.





BEFORE THE SHOOTING.







The name of Sarah Beckstrom, the National Guard Member murdered by Afghan CIA asset in DC, was googled by someone IN ISRAEL





DAYS BEFORE the shooting. pic.twitter.com/DHQpXuyzMr





  (@KAGdrogo) November 28, 2025







Theories on Rahmanullah Lakanwal spread quickly across social media

( Image credit : X/@viralhappenings_50457 | The attack happened in a tense political moment, and discussions about immigration, radicalisation and government vetting were already heated )

Something isnt adding up with Rahmanullah Lakanwala CIA-trained asset from the Kandahar Strike Force who shot and probably killed 2 members of the national guards. Google search trends spiked on his name hours before the shootingcoincidence or cover-up? Why wasnt this CIA pic.twitter.com/qWEO6N0sQ4





 Fabian  (@politicalfabian) November 27, 2025 Alleged Afghan shooter, Rahmanullah Lakamal was part of Kandahar Strike Force, a controversial CIA backed paramilitary unit, documents show. It operated in southern Afghanistan & was raised by the American side to combat the Taliban. pic.twitter.com/E65HB6Nail





 Global perspective (@Global__persp1) November 27, 2025





These reactions helped turn a small confirmed detail into a much bigger internet theory. None of it shows he was an active CIA asset, but the online world rarely waits for official answers.Another wave of viral posts focused on a strange idea that someone looked up Beckstroms name online before the attack. Users pointed to spikes in search interest in places like Washington and Israel. These spikes came from Google Trends, which measures relative interest rather than real volumes. A few searches can look like a massive rise on a chart.Still, the theory spread. One user wrote, Someone searched her before the attack. That cannot be a coincidence. Another joked darkly, Google Trends is the new detective in this case.Experts have said these patterns often appear when a name is uncommon or when a story is about to break. There is no verified proof that anyone connected to Lakanwal searched for Beckstrom or targeted her in advance. But online users kept pushing the idea because it adds mystery to the story and gives the tragedy a bigger meaning than the cold facts reveal.Part of the reason these claims went viral is timing. The attack happened in a tense political moment, and discussions about immigration, radicalisation and government vetting were already heated. When users learned Lakanwal had once worked with a CIA supported Afghan unit, many took it as proof of something more hidden.Reactions kept piling up. One person wrote, This is what happens when secrets from foreign wars come home. Another said, This story feels too complex to be random.




The ruling closes a five year legal battle that moved from confusion to accusations and then to a fierce online debate. While Perry sees the decision as justice, social media paints a far sharper picture. Many people feel the outcome looks harsh on a man who is now in hospice care.



Katy Perry wins the Montecito case after years of confusion The fight began in July 2020 when Perry and Orlando Bloom bought the massive Montecito estate from Westcott. The deal went through but within days Westcott said he wanted out. He claimed he had just come out of surgery, was on strong medication and did not understand the contract when he signed it.



( Image credit : X/@DailyLoud | The fight began in July 2020 when Perry and Orlando Bloom bought the massive Montecito estate from Westcott )



Katy Perry wins her lawsuit over the $15M Montecito mansion, with a judge ordering the 85-year-old disabled veteran who sold her the home to pay $1.8 million in damages. pic.twitter.com/WQ5PmRgKwP















 Pop Crave (@PopCrave) November 27, 2025 Katy Perry has finally won her long and emotional court fight over the fifteen million dollar Montecito mansion she bought in 2020. A Los Angeles judge has now ordered the seller, eighty five year old Carl Westcott who is a disabled veteran, to pay her one point eight million dollars in damages.The ruling closes a five year legal battle that moved from confusion to accusations and then to a fierce online debate. While Perry sees the decision as justice, social media paints a far sharper picture. Many people feel the outcome looks harsh on a man who is now in hospice care.The fight began in July 2020 when Perry and Orlando Bloom bought the massive Montecito estate from Westcott. The deal went through but within days Westcott said he wanted out. He claimed he had just come out of surgery, was on strong medication and did not understand the contract when he signed it.Perrys side argued that he was alert and fully understood the sale. They used messages and statements from witnesses to show he was clear minded during the talks. A judge agreed in 2023 and confirmed that Perry legally owned the home. But because the house sat empty for years during the legal fight, Perry said she lost rent and had to pay for repairs.

The judge orders 1.8 million dollars In damages

( Image credit : X/@Poo_rant237 | Katy Perry has finally won her long and emotional court fight over the fifteen million dollar Montecito mansion )

Internet reactions turn the case into a public debate

( Image credit : Screenshot taken from X | The divide shows how messy the case looks from the outside )

rich old people when they found out katy perry is house hunting again pic.twitter.com/WZnEcYGLeA















 calum (@mrreidperry) November 26, 2025





She told the court she only wanted fairness. She said she had hoped to make the mansion a family home but the long delay turned it into a financial problem instead.In late 2025 Perry asked the court for four point seven million dollars in damages. This included lost rental value and repair costs. Westcotts side said she still owed money on the home and that her damage claims were exaggerated.Judge Joseph Lipner studied both sides and settled on a smaller number. He awarded Perry around two point eight million dollars for lost rental value and over two hundred fifty thousand for repairs. After deductions the final amount Westcott must pay is one point eight million dollars. Perrys team called it accountability. But the ruling created a new kind of storm outside the courtroom.Soon after the ruling hit social media, the tone changed completely. Many users felt the outcome looked unfair because Westcott is now extremely sick. One comment that went viral read, Katy Perry wins one point eight million from an eighty five year old disabled vet. This feels like a bad movie script. Another user wrote, You wanted the house to raise your child. Then you sued a dying man for rent you never earned. What goes around comes around.Spanish speaking users were also upset. One post said that Perry was pressuring a sick and elderly man for money. Another comment that gained attention was simple and sharp. It said, She is just a nasty human being.
A New Wave of Union Baristas Join Longest ULP Strike in Starbucks History as Allies and Customers Back Their Fight

NATIONWIDE, November 28, 2025  More union Starbucks baristas are on ULP strike Friday, joining what has become the longest unfair labor practice (ULP) strike in Starbucks history. With the addition of hundreds of new union baristas from 26 new stores across nearly 20 new cities joining the picket lines, 2,500 baristas from 120+ stores across 85 cities are now engaged in the open-ended ULP strike that began on Red Cup Day, November 13 and expanded on November 20, to protest Starbucks historic union busting and failure to finalize a fair union contract.Were joining the Red Cup Rebellion to fight for a better future at Starbucks that we all know is possible, said Hailie Muro (she/her), a 3-year shift supervisor from Los Angeles who joined the ULP strike Friday. Baristas make the Starbucks experience what it is. Thats why we need Starbucks to stop union busting and finalize a fair contract that supports us with better pay, hours, and the staffing we need to properly serve our customers.Union stores in the following cities joined the ongoing open-ended ULP strike on Friday: Benton, Ark.; Los Angeles, Calif.; San Jose, Calif.; Alpharetta, Ga.; Rockford, Ill.; Bloomington, Ind.; Indianapolis, Ind.; Gardner, Mass.; Ann Arbor, Mich.; Saint Louis, Mo.; New York, N.Y.; Apex, N.C.; Fayetteville, N.C.; Salem, Ore.; Reading, Pa.; Wilkes-Barre, Pa.; Bountiful, Utah; South Salt Lake, Utah; Woods Cross, Utah; Richmond, Va.; Fitchburg, Wis.; and Madison, Wis.They join baristas from union stores in the following 65+ cities who remain out on the open-ended ULP strike. For a complete list of cities where workers are striking, see this Interested Parties Memo from Workers United.The 11,000 Starbucks Workers United baristas across the country, backed by tens of thousands of allies and supporters, are prepared to do what it takes to win a fair contract and an end to union busting. As of Black Friday, more than 125,000 people have signed the No Contract, No Coffee pledge to not buy Starbucks while baristas are on ULP strike.Its time for Brian Niccol and Starbucks executives to stop stalling and cut the excuses, said Michelle Eisen, Starbucks Workers United spokesperson and 15-year veteran barista. We need real solutions that address our basic demands and the hundreds of labor law violations that remain outstanding. The ball is in their court.Baristas, Allies Bring Fight to New Frontiers: Wherever Starbucks is, our picket lines will be there tooFridays ULP strike expansion builds on recent Red Cup Rebellion actions at key corporate sites. Last week, dozens of delivery trucks turned away from a picket line made up of hundreds of baristas and allies outside of Starbucks largest distribution center in the world in York, Penn.On Monday, hundreds of union baristas and allies brought their ULP strike to the satellite office Starbucks has outfitted for CEO Brian Niccol in Newport Beach, Calif.Historic Labor Law ViolationsStarbucks failure to listen to and support their own baristas has forced them to strike over unfair labor practices. Starbucks is the biggest violator of labor law in modern history as the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) and its Administrative Law Judges (ALJ) have found that Starbucks has committed more than 400 labor law violations.In a stunning rebuke to Starbucks, an ALJ recently recommended a broad cease and desist order against Starbucks unlawful union busting, stating: [Starbucks] has engaged in a scorched earth campaign and pattern of misconduct in response to union organizing at its stores across the United States. [] I take notice that despite several Board orders and dozens of ALJ decisions, Respondents behavior continues unabated.To date, Workers United has filed more than 1,000 ULPs, including more than 125 since January 2025. More than 650 unresolved charges remain, including a set of national ULPs around bad faith bargaining and unilateral policy changes, and specific ULPs around retaliatory firings and discipline.Red Cup Rebellion Draws Support of Elected Leaders, Teamsters, AlliesUnion baristas bravery has garnered the support from dozens of elected officials from all across the country. Sen. John Hickenlooper (D-CO), New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdanis transition co-chair Lina Kahn and incoming First Deputy Mayor Dean Fuleihan, New York City Council Member Chi Osse, and Philadelphia City Council Member Nicholas ORourke recently joined striking union baristas on picket lines. Rep. Maxwell Frost (D-FL), a former Starbucks barista, recently shared a message of solidarity and telling his followers to not buy Starbucks while baristas are on ULP strike.In solidarity with striking union baristas, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT) have sanctioned the nationwide ULP strike. Teamsters drivers around the country have refused to cross picket lines to deliver food, pick up trash, or bring packages to striking Starbucks locations. Striking union baristas are also being supported on the picket lines with strike kitchens organized by local chapters of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA).Starbucks Continues to Stonewall Union Baristas Contract DemandsFinalizing a fair union contract would cost Starbucks less than one average days sales and less than Starbucks Niccols $96 million compensation for just four months of work in 2024, which is the biggest CEO-to-worker pay gap in the country and 6,666 times the average baristas salary.For over six months, Starbucks has stonewalled union baristas by refusing to put forth new proposals to address their core demands:* Better hours to improve staffing in our stores. Understaffing is rampant, leading to longer wait times as customer orders stream in. Yet too many baristas still arent getting enough hours to pay the bills or meet the threshold for benefits. Starbucks needs to invest in increasing barista hours.* Higher take-home pay. Too many baristas struggle to get by, while executives make millions. Starbucks needs to put more money toward baristas take-home pay.* Resolution for hundreds of outstanding unfair labor practice charges for union busting. The coffee giant has committed more labor law violations than any employer in modern history. Starbucks needs to fully resolve legal issues impacting baristas.
Pizzerias crave visibility, but theres no sign pointing to Apizzeria 888 by Sebastian. Its a true hole in the wall youll likely blow right past while trying to keep up with traffic whizzing along Old York Road in Elkins Park.

Sebastian doesnt care.

Advertisement

Right now, Sebastian Besiso is working for himself and by himself: 40 pies a night, walk-in or call-in, pickup only, limited menu, and no third-party delivery after he got frustrated with UberEats fees one night and smashed the order tablet to bits.

Besiso has an endgame  and Apizzeria is more of a lab than a pizzeria. He views it as a test ground for something bigger  what he cryptically calls part of a social media interactive platform that will drive people directly to a restaurant. It wont be a delivery service, he said, but will offer the technology to give pizzerias better control over their business.

That would also mean moving beyond Apizzerias cramped takeout setting. I want a real dine-in experience where people can come, sit down, enjoy themselves, eat Roman and Neapolitan pizza, and drink halal beer, he said. This current setup is not sustainable long-term.

Besiso is the first to say that you may not like his pizza, especially if you prefer more conventional New York or Neapolitan styles, as many of his Elkins Park neighbors seem to. His Roma has two kinds of aged cheese, a smear of a slightly sweet tomato basil sauce, and an almost impossibly thin crust that shatters around the edges as you bite in. There is no flop whatsoever. It has the crunchy, cheese-on-the-bottom qualities of Chicago tavern-style, though Besiso slices his pies into conventional eighths, not party squares. Toppings include beef pepperoni and sausage crumbles.

His pizzas are well-done. People around here will say, You burned my pizza, he said. I tell them, Just take a bite.

His customers  and I am one  take a bite and love it. Im obsessed.

Im not saying Im better, Besiso said last week, rolling out a 7-ounce dough ball into a 14-inch round  about half the weight of whats used in a conventional New York-style pizza of the same size. Im saying this is my style.

That restraint can confuse customers. They look at a $25 price for a 14-inch pizza and feel cheated, Besiso said. They judge by quantity, not quality.

I asked Gregorio Fierro, a local consultant well versed in pizza styles and parlors around the world, to tag along on a visit. You can easily finish a 14-inch pie and not feel weighed down, he said, impressed. Its not one of those heavy pizzas where you feel stuffed.

Besiso, 42, started in the pizza business 20 years ago before he went to Drexel for chemical engineering. While building his career, he worked at the Pizza Gourmet, a parlor in Northeast Philadelphia, before buying Brandywine Pizza in Spring Garden with his brother. In 2020, he took over his current location, then called New Venice Pizza, across from Elkins Park Square. During the pandemic, he opened the shop for overnight deliveries. In his idle moments, he began tinkering with hydration, fermentation, yeast, and oven temperature and fell down the pizzaiolo rabbit hole.

After working overseas on an engineering job, he came back and last month rebranded the shop; 888 is a lucky number.

Besiso keeps everything close to the vest: He says he ages his dough at least two weeks and uses just a speck of yeast and much lower hydration than other shops. The Romas base is a low-moisture mozzarella blend. (Lets leave it at that, he said.) A grated cheese goes on top. People assume its Parmigiano Reggiano, but its not, he said. (Fierro suspects its Pecorino Romano.)

Besisos real talent is his mastery of his 60-year-old Blodgett deck oven. He pulls out each pizza near the end, lets it rest, and then slides it back for the final few seconds. Even that tiny step makes the pizza crunchier. When the pie is done, he sets it on a rack  not a pan  for cutting to preserve even more snap.

Besisos cardboard pizza box also plays a role. He hand-punctures each with rows of small holes for ventilation. Steam is not your friend, Besiso said. You close the box, drive 10 or 15 minutes, and the steam ruins everything.

If youre not local, the smart move is to call in your order, park in the lot around back, get paper plates, snag a Mexican Coke or a Fanta from the fridge, and enjoy the pizza on the hood of your car. You can take home the pizza and pop it into a hot oven for two minutes, if you must.

Right now, Besiso is developing his own panuozzo  a flat, pizzalike bread  for a line of sandwiches. If you like those, you like them, he said. And if you dont, you dont.

Apizzeria 888 by Sebastian, 8021 Old York Rd., Elkins Park, 215-635-1200. Hours: 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday to Thursday, 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
Police said a 30-year-old man, Shamir Miller, allegedly struck and killed a 41-year-old pedestrian in West Philadelphia on Thanksgiving Day. Read more

Late Thursday afternoon, while Thanksgiving rituals unfurled in rowhouses and neighborhoods across Philadelphia, Rosa Mar Espinosa Rodas took her final steps.

Espinosa Rodas, 41, was struck by a black 2012 Honda Accord at 36th and Market Streets in University City about 3:50 p.m., according to preliminary information released Friday by Philadelphia police.

Advertisement

After hitting Espinosa Rodas, the Hondas driver didnt stop. Instead, police said, the car continued eastbound along Market Street, where it then crashed into a Buick LaCrosse near 34th Street.

The driver of the Honda attempted to flee on foot, but was apprehended by police a few blocks from the second crash scene.

Police identified the motorist as Shamir Miller, 30.

Miller was charged with murder, homicide by vehicle, involuntary manslaughter, and nine other offenses, court records show.

His bail was set at $3 million, and he is scheduled to face a preliminary hearing on Dec. 15.

Medics pronounced Espinosa Rodas dead on Market Street, police said. CBS3 reported that Espinosa Rodas had worked nearby and was on her lunch break when she was fatally struck.

The driver of the Buick, a 41-year-old woman, was admitted to Penn Presbyterian Medical Center with neck and back injuries and was listed Friday in stable condition.

Miller was also treated at Penn Presbyterian for head injuries.

On Nov. 20  a week before Espinosa Rodas was killed  a nearby stretch of Market Street was the scene of another fatal hit-and-run crash.

Early that morning, the driver of a silver Chrysler 300 with tinted windows struck Meaza Brown at 33rd and Market.

Police said that Brown, 48, was hit at such a high rate of speed that she was launched out of her sneakers and propelled through the air for several hundred feet. She was pronounced dead at Penn Presbyterian.

Investigators later found the Chrysler at 34th and Race Streets, but no arrests have been reported.

 READ MORE: Philly wants to set its own speed limits, and other highlights of the citys new Vision Zero report

The city, as part of its Vision Zero plan to reduce traffic deaths, is seeking from state legislators the authority to set speed limits for local roadways, and to expand its use of automated speed enforcement cameras, The Inquirer reported this week.

Last year, the city recorded 120 vehicle crash deaths, a 41% increase from 2015, when the Vision Zero program began.
Surrounded by Army cadets, Donald Trump watches the first half of the 121st Army-Navy football game in West Point, N.Y., in 2020. Read more

Six lawmakers, including two from Pennsylvania, had good reason to remind military members not to follow unlawful orders, given Donald Trumps illicit history and recent actions, such as sending federal troops into cities and boat strikes that violate international law.

The six Democrats, who either served in the military or the intelligence community, posted a short video telling their former counterparts that no one has to carry out orders that violate the law or our Constitution.

Advertisement

Right on cue, Trump responded with a fury of unhinged social media posts calling for the lawmakers to be jailed or executed.

Each one of these traitors to our Country should be ARRESTED AND PUT ON TRIAL, Trump wrote. He followed that with: SEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR FROM TRAITORS!!! LOCK THEM UP??? He escalated in yet another post: SEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR, punishable by DEATH!

Trump later claimed he was not calling for members of Congress to be put to death  though his words plainly suggested otherwise.

When he isnt lying, Trumps abhorrent rhetoric over the past decade has become so routine that it barely causes a stir. (See: his recent outburst telling a reporter, Quiet, piggy! and shameful defense of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who authorized the vile murder of a journalist.)

 READ MORE: The U.S. must support Ukraine in peace deal, not help fulfill Putins wish list | Editorial

Given Trumps record of abusing his power, the members of Congress were right to sound the alarm.

In his previous term, Trump incited a violent insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. Lets not forget he is a convicted felon who was criminally indicted three other times.

Trump was also impeached twice in his first term. Since his return, he has committed as many as eight impeachable offenses, according to legal scholars.

Trumps first year back in office has been marked by relentless abuses. A federal judge said his attempt to eliminate birthright citizenship was blatantly unconstitutional. (The U.S. Supreme Court is weighing whether to take it up.)

Trumps pardon of more than 1,500 insurrectionists, including nearly 200 who assaulted police officers, rewarded lawbreakers. Other steps to freeze foreign aid, fire federal workers, send troops into cities, and deport migrants have faced more than 100 legal challenges and strong rebukes from judges.

The Republicans who control Congress have done nothing to stop Trumps abuses, let alone investigate whether he has used the presidency to enrich himself.

Likewise, the unqualified loyalists overseeing the various government departments do whatever Trump demands. See: Attorney General Pam Bondis willingness to fire career prosecutors and go after Trumps perceived political enemies.

Former Defense Secretary Mark Esper ignored Trumps suggestion to shoot demonstrators following the death of George Floyd. Does anyone trust Pete Hegseth  a former weekend Fox News host who has faced allegations of financial mismanagement, sexist behavior, and excessive drinking  to show similar restraint?

That explains why the members of Congress urged service members to follow their constitutional oath  and not any unlawful orders.

Trumps response to jail and kill elected officials is especially irresponsible given the rise in political violence, including murders of state lawmakers, a judge, and far-right podcaster Charlie Kirk. Not to mention the attack on former House Speaker Nancy Pelosis husband, the firebombing of the Pennsylvania governors mansion, and the attack on Trumps own life.

After the president targeted the six Democrats, Pennsylvania Reps. Chrissy Houlahan and Chris Deluzio received bomb threats at their offices. Michigan Sen. Elissa Slotkin received a similar threat at her home.

 READ MORE: Congress should renew Affordable Care Act subsidies  regardless of whether Trump cares | Editorial

Meanwhile, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R., La.) deflected Trumps outrageous behavior by claiming it was wildly inappropriate for Democrats to urge troops not to follow the chain of command.

But that was not what the six legislators did. They reminded military members not to follow unlawful orders in accordance with Article 92 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

For example, the legality of Trumps boat strikes  which have killed more than 80 people  is dubious.

A secret U.S. Department of Justice memo reportedly blessed the strikes by claiming the U.S. is in an armed conflict with drug cartels. But members of Congress from both parties argue it is illegal to target civilians  even suspected criminals  who do not pose an imminent threat. The United Nations human rights chief said the strikes violated international law.

As such, legal experts said if the strikes are found to be illegal, a defense by military officials of just following orders may not hold up in court.

Of course, Trump is shielded from prosecution thanks to a Supreme Court ruling last year that placed presidents above the law.

The same cannot be said for those who do Trumps bidding.
State Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington Washington D.C. West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Puerto Rico US Virgin Islands Armed Forces Americas Armed Forces Pacific Armed Forces Europe Northern Mariana Islands Marshall Islands American Samoa Federated States of Micronesia Guam Palau Alberta, Canada British Columbia, Canada Manitoba, Canada New Brunswick, Canada Newfoundland, Canada Nova Scotia, Canada Northwest Territories, Canada Nunavut, Canada Ontario, Canada Prince Edward Island, Canada Quebec, Canada Saskatchewan, Canada Yukon Territory, Canada

Postal Code
Last year, on the presidential campaign trail, Donald Trump promised to launch the largest deportation programme in US history. A year into his presidency, Trump has kept his pledge.

Today, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (Ice) officials continue to stalk and seize people across the US they suspect lack authorisation to be in the country  terrorising entire communities and ripping families apart in the process.

This nationwide deportation campaign began this summer in Los Angeles.

Since late May, Ice, Customs and Border Patrol, and other federal law enforcement agencies have staged hundreds of violent raids around Los Angeles at places where Latino people work, shop, eat, and live, reported Human Rights Watch in early November.

In mid-July, the Los Angeles Times documented the discrimination Mexican citizens have experienced under these so-called Ice raids.

One article featured findings from a study carried out by Carlos Gonzalez Gutierrez, the Mexican consul general in Los Angeles.

He noted that more than half of the Mexican citizens recently detained by US immigration agents had been living in the US for at least a decade, and one third had US-born children.

Historically, whenever there has been economic instability in the United States, we have seen specific racial groups targeted, Marla Andrea Ramirez explains from her office in the University of Wisconsin, where she is assistant professor of history.

Sometimes its been Mexicans, other times, Filipinos, Japanese, Chinese, or eastern Europeans.

Today in the United States we are seeing mass deportations of people, including US citizens.

This includes Puerto Ricans, who have been interrogated by US immigration officers for speaking Spanish in public, the Mexican-born academic explains.

While many Venezuelans are being described [by the US government] as gang members. Eventually, people buy into these ideas, and it gives the government [free rein] to justify their measures.

Ramirez claims shifting demographics in the US partially explains why the Republican Party have turned further to the right in recent years. Especially on immigration.

For generations, white Americans have been in the majority in the United States, but now those numbers are changing, she says

There is now an increasing number of Latinos in the United States who are US citizens with voting rights.

This has seen fear grow among some [white Americans] that Latinos could become the majority.

People demonstrate against Immigration and Customs Enforcement in New York last month. US president Donald Trump has made deporting undocumented immigrants a key priority for his second term, after successfully campaigning against an alleged 'invasion' by criminals. Picture: Timothy A Clary/ AFP via Getty

Its a far cry from the so-called melting pot theory. This idealistic aspiration originated from a play, The Melting-Pot (1908).

Written by the British Jewish writer Israel Zangwill, it opened in Washington, DC, at the Columbia Theatre, on October 5, 1908  and tells the story of a young Russian immigrant fighting to uphold his dream of a new life in a new country.

God, Zangwill claimed, was using America as a crucible to melt the fifty barbarian tribes of Europe into a metal from which he can cast Americans.

This term melting pot came about to unify a divided nation. In practice, though, there has always been a distinctive racial hierarchy in the United States that privileges whiteness, says Ramirez, pointing to some historical examples:

The 1882 Chinese Exclusion Act prevented Chinese immigrants from entering the US; the 1891 Immigration Act declared certain classes of individuals as unfit to become American citizens; meanwhile, the Immigration Act of 1924 restricted entry of immigrants from Southern and Eastern Europe.

The Immigration Act of 1924 did not restrict Mexican immigration and naturalisation based on race, but it implemented a visa requirement, effectively criminalising those who traversed the border without one, Ramirez writes in Banished Citizens.

Her debut book documents how between 1921 and 1944 more than 1m Mexican Americans were forcibly removed from the US.

They were transported across the border, via special trains organised by the Southern Pacific Railroad and Mexican National Railroad.

Mass displacement of ethnic Mexicans

Both the Mexican and American government worked in collaboration to carry out this mass displacement of ethnic Mexicans, says Ramirez.

But the policy was never formalised as law. Instead, the mass removals was an informal process that claimed to give a hand to people of Mexican origin who were destitute.

The book begins with a reference to the Mexican American War (1846-48). It officially concluded with the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo.

Mexicos loss was significant. The country ceded 55% of its territory to the US, whose landmass expanded to include the present-day states of Texas, New Mexico, Utah, Nevada, Arizona, and California.

This meant between 80,000 to 115,000 Mexican nationals found themselves living in a new country.

They were given the option to stay behind the new border line and claim US citizenship, or voluntarily repatriate. Many remained.

Eventually, they headed west to California to work on farms and railroads.

By the end of the 1920s, Los Angeles was home to the largest population of Mexican nationals outside of Mexico City.

Federal officers block the street to let vehicles leave a United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in Portland, Oregon, earlier this month. Picture: Jenny Kane/ AP

The Wall Street Crash of 1929 dramatically altered their fate.

As the US entered the Great Depression (1929-1939), many Mexican Americans were accused of being an economic burden.

In December 1930, Charles P Visel, the director for the city committee in Los Angeles, proposed a plan to save on public funding: the mass removal of ethnic Mexicans from Los Angeles.

Other cities and states across America quickly emulated that model.

This history shares eerie parallels with how immigrant communities are being treated today across the US.

The forced removals of Mexican Americans between 1921 and 1944 took place in private homes, workplaces, plazas, and dancehalls. Immigration officials often referred to them as voluntary deportations or repatriation.

The term repatriation refers to returning someone to their homeland, Ramirez explains.

But many of these people were US citizens of Mexican descent, who were already in their home country.

A more accurate description is ethnic cleansing.

Today in LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes, Los Angeles, there is a plaque commemorating Mexican Americans who were forcefully removed from a country they called home.

It was first unveiled on February 26, 2012  when several Mexican families gathered to accept a formal apology from the California State Legislature and Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors.

It was there that Ramirez first encountered surviving members from banished families. This book contains numerous interviews with them.

Many of the families I interviewed recalled leaving the United States, arriving in Mexico and having to look through trash cans for food, some had to beg, the author explains.

Others were left homeless and spoke of having to create homes out of dirt and cardboard boxes.

The forced removals of Mexican Americans concluded in 1944 with the Bracero programme, a series of agreements between the US and Mexican governments to allow temporary labourers from Mexico to work legally in the US.

It mostly benefited employers, giving them easy access to cheap workers, who could be seasonally hired and fired.

Many individuals from families that Ramirez interviewed believe they are owed, at a minimum, an apology from the current Mexican and US governments.

Some want financial reparations. Others just public acknowledgment about the historical wrongdoing and intergenerational trauma they and their families have endured over many decades.

If action happens at local and state level, momentum can be created, says Ramirez.

California has already acknowledged their role in this mass removals and they have inaugurated a plaque to recognise this history.

Im currently in conversation with Governor Tony Evers, who Im hopeful will promote legislation that will approve a reparation or an apology act here in the state of Wisconsin.

Presently, getting any co-operation from the White House on this topic seems highly unlikely.

The Trump administration has what can only be described as racist policies, Ramirez concludes.

Its almost certain it will not bring in any form of reparations for banished citizens in the near to medium future.
Susan Orlean didnt set out to write an elegy for journalism when she began working on her memoir, Joyride.

However, its hard not to look back on the years when the celebrated US writer plied her trade in a bygone era when expense accounts were generous and deadlines more elastic.

As the title suggests, the book is a hugely entertaining and engaging account of Orleans adventures in writing, working for legendary publications from Rolling Stone and The Village Voice to The New Yorker, written in her own imitable and impeccable style.

When Orlean started out, narrative non-fiction was in its heyday, and she was picking up the baton from writers such as Joan Didion and Tom Wolfe.

There are too many highlights to list but up there is her encounter with a cult leader for a Village Voice piece and The New Yorker article about a charismatic orchid hunter which led to her being portrayed on screen by Meryl Streep.

When I was writing it, I didnt think, well, I want to capture this past world of largesse when everybody had time and everybody had money, says Orlean.

I didnt think of it as a nostalgic kind of reflection, but the reality is the way people consume information has changed so radically.

When I started at The New Yorker, they didnt use photos, now, they have this huge website with video. And the loss of so many local newspapers, a huge swath of journalistic output is gone.

I think the book does capture a moment of time that probably will never be repeated.

In Joyride, Orlean says that writers fall into two categories  those who have something they want to say to the world, and those who believe the world has something to tell them.

She is very much in the latter camp, beginning with intimate vignettes that she skilfully expands into stories that illuminate a whole world.

I have very strong opinions, believe me, but that wasnt the writing I wanted to do.

I wanted to discover parts of the world and ways of being that I wasnt familiar with, and then report on that to my readers and say to them, look at this wonderful, astonishing thing that Ive uncovered, even if its something very familiar, Ive just looked at it in a new way.

Orleans career is festooned with brilliant gems that make the mundane seem magical.

Her first published article in The New Yorker was a piece about how Benetton staff folded clothes, while her celebrated article A Gentle Reign was a fascinating look at the life of Kwabena Oppong, the king of an African tribe who worked as a New York cab driver.

Susan Orlean: 'I have very strong opinions, believe me, but that wasnt the writing I wanted to do.' Picture: Corey Hendrickson

The intro (or the lede in US journalistic parlance) to her 1992 Esquire cover story The American Man, Age Ten has often been anthologised and studied.

Originally assigned to do a profile of child actor Macaulay Culkin, Orlean convinced her editor to run a piece on the life of a typical American boy instead. [If Colin Duffy and I were to get married, we would have matching superhero notebooks.]

These are not small stories. The portal youre travelling through is small, but youre seeing a whole universe.

And youre seeing a very big story, whether its about family or passion or whatever the thematic kind of nugget is, these stories are really big.

Orlean has thrived writing about other peoples lives but when it came to writing a memoir and turning her focus inward, she felt less than comfortable.

Its not something that I felt at ease doing. I had made an agreement with the reader that I was going to share with them who I was, and that was what guided me. But it certainly was challenging.

Some of it made me very sad to think about, and I didnt quite know how to write some of it.

Her relationship with her late ex-husband

She writes with admirable honesty about her relationship with her late ex-husband, who had given up journalism to become a lawyer and became increasingly jealous when her writing career took off.

In a flabbergasting turn of events, he decides to reveal his infidelity just before the launch of her first book  and then goes on to do it again for her second.

This is all conveyed with a distinct lack of bitterness on Orleans part.

I felt like it spoke pretty loudly on its own. I resisted in initially accepting the fact that this was no accident, because I thought, how can anyone be that petty and mean-spirited?

I mean, this is the person whos supposed to love me, who you would think would be excited, happy and celebrating, and instead, this is the moment to knock me down.

There are a lot of men who find female success particularly threatening.

Orlean admits to a naive optimism which at times got her into hairy situations, for example when she was drawn into the orbit of discredited Indian cult leader Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh while researching a piece at his commune in Oregon.

She witnesses a TV cameraman covering the story abandoning his assignment to join the ranks of followers.

That is where I thought, Ive got to get out of here, this is really scary.

Confidence has, oddly, as one of its components, innocence, in the sense that you believe that everything is going to be fine. Youre focused on the positive possibility.

The same attitude prevailed when her book The Orchid Thief, which expanded on her piece about John Laroche, an eccentric plant dealer who had been arrested for poaching rare orchids from a Florida swamp, was optioned for the screen.

It became the award-winning Adaptation, with a screenplay by Charlie Kaufman, who took a surreally metafictional approach to Orleans book.

Although she initially had some reservations, Orlean eventually gave her approval and things took an even stranger turn when it turned out she would be portrayed by acting legend Meryl Streep.

Orlean had been an extra in Streeps breakthrough film The Deer Hunter.

Most of the time my impulse is to say yes, because I feel like if I say no, Im never going to know what this could have been like.

They made a few alterations that I asked for but I thought these are smart people, they do really want to make a good movie. Im still not quite sure I understand it, but I didnt not want to do it.

The tone of Joyride runs very much counter to the stereotypical view of journalists as cynical and world-weary.

Its also a refreshing insight into the craft, and graft, of reporting and writing in a world where the press is now often seen as the enemy, a dangerous perspective stoked by political leaders. Orleans open approach to the topics she writes about runs counter to the prevailing mood.

Even if its about something like a childrens beauty pageant where I know that my private feeling is of discomfort and questioning whether this is a healthy thing to do, my approach is that its valuable to someone, in which case I am obligated as a writer to understand why.

More than ever, were fostering this attitude that I just decide, de facto, that I disapprove of you, that I dont want to learn about you, theres a turning inward that is really frightening.

We seem to be losing the appetite for saying I dont understand this, let me explore it a little further, and its really scary, I genuinely think this is how society implodes.

Orlean says storytelling and writing are fundamental to human existence. She is characteristically optimistic that it is something we will always have in one form or another.

You never lose certain fundamentals. People continue to want to hear stories, but they hear them in different forms.

Were not going to go back to the era of big glossy magazines, and we may have fewer outlets, but the ones that have survived seem to be really growing.

 The New Yorker, between the print magazine and the website, has more readers than it ever did. That gives me hope.
Parasocial is the word of the year, according to Cambridge Dictionary, who pointed to a connection people feel with someone they dont know or - how very 2025 - with AI. As an example, it points to Lily Allen and the storm of attention that greeted her latest album West End Girl, about the breakup of her marriage. It sparked a parasocial interest in her love life, says Cambridge Dictionary.

On Fridays episode of Catch Up with Louise McSharry, where the host is interviewed by the journalist Una Mullally, she cites Lily Allen as an influence on making a big life decision recently.

I suppose being a grown up and having a family means you don't get to just do selfish things, says McSharry. Obviously there's no parallels between my situation and Lily's situation, but I read a million interviews with her, and in one of them, she was talking about why it was important for her to say these things out loud and to put her story out into the world.

"And she was talking about the fact that she'd always just felt like until she had said things out loud and put things out into the world, they didn't feel done, or she didn't feel like she could move on. And I have never heard anyone articulate that before, and that is genuinely how I have always felt.

The episode is a powerful 80-minute listen in which McSharry discusses her journey of self-discovery and coming out as gay in her 40s. She recounts her therapy sessions, the emotional process of telling her husband, and the subsequent impact on their family life.

I've never really struggled with being open and honest about challenges, she says. I think it's really useful to talk about the challenges that we all face. I think we gain so much from that conversation. And also, for me personally, for some reason, externalising things is a huge part of my own process of moving on and healing, I suppose.

As Lily Allen helped McSharry, so McSharry may help countless others. Casual listeners will hear a conversation about identity and change, while more devout fans will feel the emotional weight of it differently.

Podcasts are perhaps the definition of parasocial - we listen to familiar voices for hours every week over however many years. We become used to hosts quirks, personalities, and life journeys. We cry when they reveal a setback or cheer at a win, no matter how big or small. McSharry's willingness to use her platform to help others is, paradoxically, what deepens that final, defining closeness between host and audience.
The number of calls to an animal welfare helpline operated by the Department of Agriculture has more than doubled in the past five years.

Figures provided by the agriculture minister Martin Heydon showed that the number of calls to the helpline has jumped from 846 in 2020 to 2,040 up to the end of October.

The number of calls received by the helpline last year was 2,210.

The figures come as an investigation is underway into the discovery of a headless body of a stag in Dublin on Thursday.

On Friday, Fingal County Council issued an appeal in relation to the incident. The eight-year-old stag was part of an Irish red deer herd at Newbridge Demesne, Donabate and was killed overnight on Wednesday night or Thursday morning by intruders who had broken into the park.

The mayor of Fingal, Tom OLeary, said: Its truly shocking that someone would carry out this act. I am appealing to anybody with information to contact the gardai or the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

It is illegal to kill deer without a licence and I hope that the perpetrators can be brought to justice.

Ivan Smith, foreman of Works at Newbridge House and Traditional Farm, said: We are absolutely shocked by this incident. He was a lovely stag with a beautiful pair of antlers and was a big favourite with the public who walk through the park.

The animal welfare helpline figures were provided to Fianna Fail TD for Cork North Central Padraig OSullivan. He said: I am concerned because these figures show the number of complaints has trebled in the past five years. It is majorly concerning.

"I have repeatedly called for an overhaul of animal welfare legislation and I have presented a bill already about equine welfare and I am in the middle of preparing a bill on dog breeding establishments.

Anybody with information is asked to contact the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666111 or email WildlifeEnforcement@npws.gov.ie.
An organised crime group is suspected to have ordered the attack on a suburban home in which a woman was doused in petrol and set on fire leaving her in a critical condition with extensive burns to her face and body.

Gardai have gathered CCTV from the area in Clondalkin, Dublin, and a manhunt is underway.

The woman, 43, remains in a critical condition after the attack, which occurred shortly after 10am on Tuesday at a suburban home in Oak Downs, off Boot Rd in Clondalkin.

A male knocked on the door, doused the woman who answered in petrol, and set her alight, it is believed.

It is currently suspected that the woman knew the assailant.

The assailant fled the scene on a black e-bike, leaving the woman screaming and engulfed in flames.

Her partner, who was also in the house, tried to put out the flames, locals who witnessed the immediate aftermath of the attack, said. He also suffered some injuries and was treated in hospital.

The injured woman remains in a critical condition in a specialist burn unit in St James Hospital.

She has suffered burns to more than 60% of her body, including to her face, sources say.

Her partner, aged 49, has multiple previous convictions and has had serious threats made against him.

Attack may be linked to drug debt

It is suspected that the attack is linked to a drug debt and to a south-west Dublin gang operating in the Clondalkin and Ballyfermot areas.

Masked men had previously called to the couples house.

A drugs feud is ongoing in the area, sources say.

Gardai have been conducting house-to-house enquiries and have harvested CCTV from the area.

Local Sinn Fein councillor William Carey said that neighbours who saw the woman screaming and engulfed in flames are traumatised and should be entitled to counselling.

He also called for more investment in youth diversion and addiction support services for the area. Mr Carey said:

Some people heard the screams and came outside and saw the girl on fire. They are completely traumatised.

The community is in total shock."

This latest attack was raising the bar on suspected drug-related violence, he said.

The girl came to the door, there was no mistaking her identity. They knew what they were doing. It's attempted murder, as far as I'm concerned," Mr Carey said.

They covered her in fluid and set her alight. They tried to burn a person alive.

The level of violence being used now is beyond anything Ive seen before. And this is a very quiet, residential area. This is completely out of keeping with the general area.

Clondalkin's population has expanded rapidly, but support services have not kept pace, he said.

I just hope this girl makes some recovery. For this to happen to anyone is horrendous.
There could be 1,500 people in hospitals with the flu over Christmas week, the health minister has cautioned, amid warnings of severe illness from a new strain of the virus.

Jennifer Carroll MacNeill said flu is already spreading among children, with Childrens Health Ireland (CHI) sites under pressure from an unusually high number of patients.

She called on anyone vulnerable to the flu to get vaccinated. Our modelling shows we could have 1,500 people in hospital Christmas week with the flu, she told Newstalk on Friday.

A new flu strain causing fear in Japan and elsewhere is now circulating in Ireland. The so-called "subclade K" variant is said to cause more severe symptoms than usual strains.

Nigel Moloney, a pharmacist at Carrigaline CarePlus Pharmacy in Cork, warned this winter is already looking bad here.

Referring to the National Virus Reference Laboratory, he said: Of 19 cases of flu they genetically sequenced, 16 of those were actually this new subclade K mutation, so it is here.

While symptoms are the same as previous strains, he said they are stronger and much more severe and that they are a lot worse (for people).

The vaccine used here is effective against this, although he noted new UK research showing it is slightly less effective than against previous strains. He said:

The vaccine will certainly help to make you a lot less sick, and given how severe the symptoms are with this flu, that is really important.

Mr Moloney has previously done work for vaccine provider Csl Seqirus.

Despite the concerns, flu vaccination uptake among healthcare workers is lower than expected.

Irish Medical Council president Suzanne Crowe described this as an interesting question in need of analysis.

Rather than castigating healthcare staff, we need to understand why some are reluctant to avail of the vaccine to protect their health and the health of their patients, Dr Crowe said.

A rate of 45% uptake when the target is 75% with an active vaccination programme requires genuine curiosity and engagement with staff, including the broader remit of workplace culture and care for staff.'

Latest hospital flu data

The latest figures show 211 flu patients in hospitals, up from 140 the week before. However, hospitals are seeing some results from projects tackling overcrowding.

The Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation counted 9,036 people waiting on trolleys, chairs, or other temporary places for a bed during November. This is down on November last year when they counted 10,561.

At University Hospital Limerick, 1,273 people were without a bed, down from 2,110 last November. Similarly, Cork University Hospital this month reached 701 and last November 1,082.

INMO general secretary Phil Ni Sheaghdha said: We are already being warned that this years flu strain has arrived early and is affecting hospital attendance and capacity. She called for a hospital-by-hospital breakdown of the HSEs plans for winter to help avoid problems.

Ms Carroll MacNeill also said the trolley count is "very considerably down on last year".

However, she raised concerns Cork, Galway, Mayo, Letterkenny, and Limerick to a lesser extent, are particularly challenged. University Hospital Waterford is still zero, she said.
European grant support was secured for research into the design of a system for early detection forest fires, but a company involved in the application was fined for a fraud against the European Union in respect of some of the grants claimed  the first Irish prosecution of its kind.

Lightwave Optics Ltd, trading as Irish Precision Optics, of 22 Summerhill North, Cork, was fined 15,000 and ordered to pay 5,000  consisting of 1,000 to each of five Cork charities, Simon, St Vincent de Paul, Cork Penny Dinners, Share, and the charity associated with search and rescue in Cork city.

A plea of guilty was entered on behalf of the company at Cork Circuit Criminal Court to a charge that between December 11, 2013, and September 30, 2015, it did commit in whole or in part a fraud affecting the European Communities financial interests, relating to expenditure, namely European Research Executive Agency (REA) payments consisting of pre-financing and interim payment, amounting to 587,350.

While this was the sum referred to in the charge, the sum actually involved, according to evidence at the sentencing hearing, was closer to one tenth of this amount.

An earlier charge in similar terms against director of that company, Tony Herbert, of Summerhill North, Cork, was withdrawn by prosecution senior counsel Donal OSullivan after the plea of guilty was entered by the company.

Inspector Clodagh OSullivan said 78-year-old Anthonyo (Tony) Herbert is the director of a company known as Lightwave Optics Limited, also known as Irish Precision Optics, with offices at Summerhill North, Cork, and an application was made for EU grant support for a research project.

The European Anti-Frand Office became concerned about alleged irregularities and an investigation was set up.

Insp OSullivan said Lightwave Optics Ltd misused part of the pre-financing in order to pay two companies for providing services for their casino and hotel projects in Cyprus, with no link to the UV-Multicam project.

The company declared inflated personnel costs for Mr Anthony Herbert. Inaccurate subcontracting costs were declared by using falsified invoices or invoices issued in relation to other commercial activities or projects.

Brian Mulvany, defence barrister said the investigation found 255,000 of the grant applications by a consortium of companies was attributable to Lightwave Optics Ltd, and that of this, 191,000 was found to be legitimate. The remaining sum has been repaid in full by the company following civil proceedings, Mr Mulvany said.

Judge Helen Boyle said, in imposing a 15,000 fine on Lightwave Optics Ltd, and requiring it to pay 5,000 to charity: Obviously, it is in everyones interest that European funds are dispensed appropriately and that there is not an overspend of taxpayers money.

I know there is not any loss now following extensive communications with the company involved, but it is a relatively serious matter. Any court must view seriously the appropriateness of the allocation of taxpayers money.

Inspector Clodagh OSullivan has done a sterling job on what was the first prosecution of its kind in Ireland.

The judge said in such a complicated case, the plea of guilty by the company was of particular value and she also commented the research into the possible detection of forest fires at the earliest possible stage would have been of benefit to humanity had it been developed successfully.
A motorist was charged with 10 counts of dangerous driving following a high-speed chase in West Cork, a recent sitting of Bantry District Court was told.

Court presenter Sergeant Trish OSullivan told the court that on the night of August 16, 2025, gardai observed a black Toyota Auris parked unusually at Brahalish on the west side of Durrus village near Bantry.

When they approached the vehicle, which had a driver and at least one passenger, it took off at speed and the garda car had to take evasive action to avoid a collision. Gardai followed the car as it headed east towards Durrus village on the Ahakista road. The car was observed driving too fast for the road and also crossing the central white line.

The car then drove through Durrus village too fast where a number of pedestrians were present and over a traffic calming speed ramp at a speed described as noticeably too high. The Toyota then drove on into the countryside along a minor road and did not stop for gardai who had their blue lights flashing in pursuit.

The car then crossed a junction at Letterlicky without stopping and gardai who had the details of the car decided to abandon the pursuit. The court heard that the pursuit lasted a distance of approximately five miles or eight kilometres before the garda car stopped following the Toyota.

The driver was identified as Edward Ryan, aged 24, of Chapel Rock, Durrus, Co Cork, who had no previous convictions. Defence solicitor Flor Murphy said the car suffered a puncture on the night and Mr Ryan walked home where his father informed him the gardai were looking for him.

Mr Murphy said Ryan went to gardai and made full admissions. He said when his client saw the garda car approaching a light went on and he just took off. Mr Murphy said Ryans documents were all in order and the car was a 1.4 that was not souped-up in any way.

He said Ryan had been fishing with a friend that day and had gone for a spin as young people do. He said Ryan suffered from anxiety and depression for which he was on medication. He added that Ryan had a good work ethic and worked in traffic management for road construction projects.

Judge Joanne Carroll said people with depression should respect their driving licence just like everybody else. She said she would take into consideration the fact that Ryan had no previous convictions but said all citizens have to co-operate with the gardai.

She said Ryan had soaked up garda time by going on a wild chase through West Cork. By agreement Ryan was prosecuted on four of the 10 charges that all related to different locations during the same incident.

For dangerous driving at Clashadoo, Durrus, he was convicted, disqualified from driving for two years and fined 500 with five months to pay. For dangerous driving at Letterlicky East, Bantry, he was convicted and disqualified from driving for two years and fined 500 with five months to pay. Both the disqualifications are to run concurrently.

The judge adjourned a further two charges to March 26, 2026, to allow time for the preparation of a probation report. The other six charges were struck out and Judge Carroll agreed to defer the commencement of the driving disqualification to January 15, 2026.

Funded by the Courts Reporting Scheme
A 55-year-old Kerry man has been sentenced to life imprisonment for the violent murder of his wonderful and hardworking mother  described as someone who always had a smile for everyone  whom he strangled to death at her Killarney home three years ago.

Billy Burns had pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to the murder of his 75-year-old mother Miriam Burns, but a jury unanimously rejected that defence earlier this week.

The 12 jurors accepted the prosecution's case that the actions of 55-year-old Burns in killing his mother stemmed not from mental illness but from his "long-term abuse of drugs and alcohol" and anger towards his mother.

The trial heard that Burns had been aggressive and violent towards Ms Burns since he was a teenager and on one occasion broke her jaw.

Burns had denied to gardai any involvement in his mother's death, told lies about his movements on the day and made deliberate attempts to destroy evidence related to the killing, the prosecution had also argued.

Ms Justice Karen OConnor sentenced Burns on Friday to the mandatory term of life imprisonment. Passing sentence, Ms Justice OConnor noted the familys decision not to provide a victim impact statement to the court.

Miriam Burns 'was described in this trial as being the queen of communication,' the judge said.

Ms Justice OConnor conveyed her condolences to Miriam Burns family, friends and neighbours who, she said, had displayed extraordinary dignity and composure at all times despite hearing heartbreaking evidence of the violent nature of their mothers death. She acknowledged the unimaginable grief for those left behind.

The judge said those present in court for the trial had received an insight into the type of person Miriam Burns was, noting that despite bringing up her family on her own, the 75-year-old always had a big smile for everyone and was always glamourous.

The judge said she got a strong sense that the deceased was a hardworking woman who looked after her family and was committed to all of them. The love and grief this family feels was palpable during the trial, she said. Its a testament to the love she gave to all of you.

The trial had heard evidence, she said, of the efforts made by Ms Burns son Shane in Australia and of her daughter Sharon to find out if their mother was okay. Ms Justice OConnor said one could only imagine the shock Shane Burns must have felt when he was on the end of a phoneline and heard this desperate, desperate news.

She said Ms Burns had embraced technology and loved Netflix as well as Facetime and WhatsApp which, she said, allowed her to communicate with her family.

The body of Miriam Burns always had 'a big smile for everyone' and was 'always glamourous', the court heard.

She was a woman who loved to chat no matter how busy she was, Ms Justice OConnor said. She was described in this trial as being the queen of communication.

The judge told Ms Burns family they had honoured her legacy throughout the trial process and would no doubt always honour the wonderful woman she was, the dignity she taught you and the values she had.

Miriam Burns was found dead at her home at Ardshanavooley, Killarney, Co Kerry on August 15, 2022, when concerned family members asked neighbours to check on her.

It was the prosecutions case that Burns killed his mother some time between 10pm on August 12 and the early hours of August 13. A pathologist's report showed that she died from manual strangulation associated with blunt force trauma to the head.
A Midleton man with a conviction for manslaughter terrified two young students at a secondary school in the area when he robbed them in a locker room and pushed them around violently.

Garda Barry Kilroy testified about the background to the trespass and two robberies committed by Cornelius Horgan at Midleton College at 5.20pm on February 4 this year.

The 43-year-old who was of no fixed address in the Midleton area at the time entered a locker room being used by younger teenage students that afternoon.

He approached two students and took their phones and wallets and he was very physical with them and put them in fear. He pushed the first student with force. He caught another student by his throat and slapped him against the locker and took his mobile phone.

He frisked one of them and shouted at him even when this child was physically upset. He took his Revolut card, his Leap card and left the locker room.

Vice principal Kevin Stanley followed the accused and contacted gardai who arrested him in Midleton.

The two students are too afraid to come to court, Garda Kilroy said at Cork Circuit Criminal Court where Judge Sinead Behan sentenced Mr Horgan to four years in prison.

Cornelius Horgans previous convictions include one for manslaughter in April 2010 when he struck the victim across the head with a bottle, causing his death three days later.

'Chaotic'

Marjorie Farrelly, senior counsel, said: It was a fairly chaotic scene in the school and the defendant was not making much sense, saying repeatedly, where are the drugs? He brought his dog in with him. He said he was following his dog. The whole thing was utterly chaotic.

He was very co-operative at interview and he felt bad for the children. He acknowledged the children were scared and he apologised for scaring them. He was in the grip of polysubstance misuse. He was after taking tablets that day. He apologises to the school and to the children.

Mr Horgans own parents suffered from addictions. He ran away from home at the age of 14. He had a largely homeless lifestyle since.

Judge Behan noted from a psychiatric report on the accused that he has an anti-social personality disorder including a reckless disregard for himself and others.

Judge Behan said:

I have no doubt that the two students found it an absolutely terrifying ordeal. And the parents outrage and helplessness is very evident in victim impact reports.

The judge noted that the defendant put his hands on the vice-principal Mr Stanley and was acting in an unpredictable manner. The school has taken new security measures since this occurred.

I would like to acknowledge the courage of Kevin Stanley the vice-principal who did the best he could in the protection of the children. I think there is great credit due to that gentleman, Judge Behan said.

A total sentence of five years was imposed on the defendant with the last year suspended.
As Ireland absorbs Wednesdays announcements on major changes to citizenship and family reunification rules, its clear the Government has chosen to pursue a much harsher approach to integration.

The speed at which these proposals have surfaced makes it difficult to avoid the conclusion that this is political opportunism. The new measures will include a requirement that refugees and migrants applying for citizenship must be self-sufficient and not have received certain social welfare supports in the previous two years.

It also includes an increase in the residency requirement for refugees from three to five years. These ideas have travelled from Copenhagen to Westminster and now towards Dublin.

Announcing a harder line on immigration is easy. It sounds decisive, it plays well in certain headlines, and it signals a posture of control. But the reality is that being tough on immigration means being tough on actual immigrants  people who already live here, work here, raise children here and contribute in countless ways to our society.

People seeking international protection and asylum seekers protest against deportations outside Leinster House this month. Photo: SAM BOAL/Collins Photos

These are our friends, our colleagues and our neighbours. The proposed changes would apply to individuals who are already legally resident in Ireland, including refugees recognised by the State as having fled persecution. They include parents working in essential but low-paid sectors, people returning to education to improve their prospects, and families using supports designed to prevent poverty.

These are people participating in Irish society every day. What happens when the person affected is not a hypothetical migrant, but someone who has worked, volunteered, cared for neighbours and built their life here?

It is one thing for a minister to stand at a podium and declare that Ireland will tighten eligibility rules. It is another to stand over the real harm that will unfold when a person turns up at a constituency clinic, confused and distressed, asking why their naturalisation application has been refused despite doing everything possible to support themselves and their family.

People getting the Working Family Payment

Before Ireland follows this path, we must examine what this would mean for people who already live and work here. Working Family Payment illustrates the stakes clearly.

According to a response to a Parliamentary Question on June 24, 2025, 48,500 households across Ireland receive Working Family Payment, supporting more than 110,000 children. These are exclusively working households. Many of these households work in care, retail, health, food production and other sectors that Ireland depends on to function, but their wages are not sufficient to fully support a family.

Minister for justice Jim O'Callaghan announcing his proposals on stricter migration rules on Wednesday. It is one thing for a minister to stand at a podium and declare that Ireland will tighten eligibility rules. It is another to stand over the real harm that will unfold when a person turns up at a constituency clinic, confused and distressed, asking why their naturalisation application has been refused despite doing everything possible to support themselves and their family.

Do you think the care assistant who comes every morning to wash, dress or make food for your elderly parent, aunt or grandparent should be prohibited from ever becoming an Irish citizen because care assistants do not get paid enough?

Should the person who helps your family member stay safe at home be told that, because their wages are low and their children need the Working Family Payment to get by, they will face additional barriers to belonging in the country where they live, work and raise their family?

The idea that a parent working full time while receiving Working Family Payment to keep their family afloat could be told they will not qualify for citizenship is out of step with most peoples sense of fairness.

These are not edge cases. These are everyday families in workplaces, creches, care homes, factories, supermarkets and classrooms across the country.

Upskilling supports

Education and training raise further concerns. Many upskilling supports require participants to be in receipt of social welfare payments. If people worry that taking a place on a training programme, completing a qualification or returning to education might later count against them in a citizenship application, they may be pushed into an endless cycle of low-wage, precarious jobs with little prospect of progressing.

Take the example of a dentist who has fled to Ireland and is now working toward having their qualifications recognised. They may need temporary income supports while they complete exams so they can help fill the significant gaps in dental services.

Why would we want to reduce the number of people developing skills our economy urgently needs? Across the EU, labour shortages in healthcare, agriculture and ICT are well known. Ireland cannot afford policies that discourage education and workforce participation.

Child poverty

There is also the issue of child poverty. Socio-economic status is the strongest predictor of educational disadvantage among migrant children. If parents avoid lawful supports designed to prevent poverty, children bear the impact first.

Any reform that creates fear around applying for income supports risks undermining Irelands commitments on reducing child poverty and narrowing education gaps.

Deterrence

The deterrence argument also needs to be addressed directly. Some claim these measures will discourage asylum seekers. This does not reflect reality. People seek asylum because they are unsafe, not because of welfare rules that may apply years later.

Asylum seekers in Ireland do not have access to most social welfare payments in the first place. These proposals therefore cannot deter asylum claims.

They would instead make daily life more difficult for people who have already been granted legal status and are trying to rebuild their lives.

The UK

Political debate in the UK shows how contentious these reforms are. The UK Labour Party is deeply divided over its proposals. There is backlash from within Labour, from MPs concerned about the effect on essential workers, and from rival parties arguing the reforms contradict evidence on what supports successful integration.

If the UK governing party cannot agree on whether these reforms are workable or fair, it is reasonable to expect a similar debate in Ireland. What is unclear is why Ireland would import a policy direction from the UK before the UK itself has produced a single piece of evidence that these measures will work.

The UKs model prioritises restriction over inclusion, is internally contested, and remains entirely untested in terms of outcomes. There are basic questions we cannot yet answer.

How many people would be affected? How many working families would face delays to citizenship? How many children could be pushed into deeper hardship? How many potential students or trainees would decide against education opportunities?

Fiona Hurley: 'If Ireland adopts measures similar to those in the UK without our own evidence, modelling or consultation, we risk weakening integration, discouraging participation in education and training, and deepening poverty among working families.'

None of this has been assessed. There has been no economic modelling, no equality or human rights analysis, and no consultation with organisations that understand the lived realities of these families, including St Vincent de Paul, migrant and refugee NGOs, trade unions, disability and carers groups, or education and health sector bodies.

If Ireland adopts similar measures without our own evidence, modelling or consultation, we risk weakening integration, discouraging participation in education and training, and deepening poverty among working families.

The Programme for Government promised an approach to immigration that would be firm but fair. We have heard plenty about the firm. Where has the fairness gone?
Gas Networks Ireland has refreshed its business strategy to guide how the gas network will evolve to support national decarbonisation and energy security goals in the period to 2035.

The product of a six-month process involving the Gas Networks Ireland board and executive team, the new strategy was developed as a direct response to changes in energy markets and the broader geopolitical environment.In particular, the strategy addresses changes to the energy trilemma, the delicate balance between the three main areas of our energy future: sustainability, security of supply and affordability.

What we have seen over the past two or three years is a recalibration of the energy trilemma, says Gas Networks Ireland head of strategy and planning Tim Gugov.

If you think of it as a triangle with each of the vertices pulling against the other; two years ago, the main focus was on sustainability. But geopolitical shifts, the war in Ukraine, the change in the US administration and competitiveness issues in Europe have driven a need to rebalance the triangle. It is now much more balanced, and we need to think a lot more about security of supply and cost to customers along with sustainability. This led us to revisit our strategy.

Gugov joined the organisation in 2024 and brings vast experience to his role, having previously worked in energy strategy, transformation and innovation in the US, Switzerland, France and Singapore.

According to Gugov, the new strategy is designed to deliver a resilient gas network, support Irelands net-zero transition and keep customers at the heart of the energy system.

Continuing to ensure Ireland has a resilient gas network is critical to shaping the countrys energy future, he says.

We transport gas 365 days a year and we do that safely and securely. We have almost 15,000km of pipes, thats more than four times the circumference of Ireland, and we transport essential energy to almost 725,000 customers. So, we put safety first in everything we do.

He points out that the decarbonisation agenda also brings new operational considerations as increasing amounts of renewable gases are transported through the gas network.

This will increase the number of entry points to the network. At the moment we have three, but we will have lots more in future.

Reliability and flexibility of the gas network are fundamental. We supply 30 per cent of Irelands primary energy needs and gas remains critical to electricity generation.

Gas-fired power generation averages out at around about 40 per cent of Irelands electricity needs each year, he notes. But at any one time it can climb to almost 90 per cent during periods of low wind output and when the sun isnt shining.

With more and more weather-dependent variable renewables coming on to the system we will need more and more flexible back-up capacity, he continues.

By the end of this year we will have safely delivered seven new peaking power station connections, with five more in the pipeline for next year. Peaking power plants differ from baseload plants which run continuously, as peakers are quick to start up and flexible in output, making them essential for balancing supplies of renewables with demand on the grid.

Tim Gugov: 'We have an aggressive internal programme to protect our sites and assets both from cyber and physical threats.'

The security of the network is paramount. There are two very important angles to it, cyber and physical, he explains.

Recent events such as the high-profile sabotage and damage to subsea telecoms cables and gas pipelines, particularly in the Baltic Sea, have led to increased concerns around threats to critical infrastructure. We have an aggressive internal programme to protect our sites and assets both from cyber and physical threats.

In addition to the security of the network, we must also address the security of energy supply. Ireland is an outlier among EU member states in that it doesnt have gas storage facilities or multiple entry points, he says.

About 80 per cent of our gas supply is imported from Scotland through two subsea interconnectors. The Irish Government has identified this as a significant risk and in March it approved the development of a State-led strategic gas emergency reserve to advance Irelands energy security. This is a key focus in our strategy.

The sustainability component of the trilemma, however, remains critically important. There are three elements to this. The need to work collaboratively with all stakeholders, support the delivery of renewable gas, and decarbonise our own operations. Collaboration is critically important. We need to work collaboratively with other players in the energy system to develop a joint integrated plan.

Energy demand is changing, and we have to continuously review and optimise our tariff structure to reflect those changes with equitable and fair pricing for all of our customers. Its imperative that we also continue to advocate for the right policies that reflect the interests of our customers - Tim Gugov

The organisation is already embracing renewable gas in the form of biomethane. Biomethane represents a fantastic opportunity for Ireland, says Gugov.

Irelands potential to produce biomethane is the highest in Europe on a per-capita basis. We have a lot of agricultural land and a lot of raw material. The Irish Government has acknowledged this by committing to the delivery of up to 5.7TWh  10 per cent of Irelands gas supply  of indigenously produced biomethane by 2030 as part of its Climate Action Plan.

To get there, the sector needs to be championed, and Gas Networks Ireland needs to accommodate these connections to ensure they can access the network.

Next year we will connect three anaerobic digestion [AD] plants to the network.

Not all plants will be of that scale and in proximity to the gas network. We will always have the situation where farmers and producers are located far from our network, and we have to think of ways to accommodate them.

The solution is to collect the gas in trucks and transport it to centralised grid injection (CGI) facilities. The first of these will be located Mitchelstown, County Cork, with the first phase of the project being delivered next year.

When fully operational, the facility will inject up to 700GWh of renewable gas into the gas network per annum, reducing emissions by circa 130,000 tonnes of CO per annum when at 100 per cent biomethane. This would help deliver 12 per cent of the governments target, Gugov notes.

Green hydrogen is a longer-term prospect and is dependent on the development of offshore wind to generate the surplus power which will be used to produce the hydrogen gas.

We need to facilitate hydrogen on our network, and we are doing R&D work on that at present. We are running pilot and demonstration projects. At present, those projects involve blending hydrogen with natural gas and testing it.

The ultimate goal is to establish what is required to repurpose the network to carry 100 per cent green hydrogen. We have a demonstrator project with a customer where we got up to a blend of 20 per cent hydrogen with 80 per cent natural gas without the need for any changes to processes or equipment. It also had a very positive impact on emissions.

Customer centricity and affordability form the third and final part of the strategy. Our customers have always been a critical area of focus for us and are the anchor in our strategy. Affordability for customers is now front and centre as well as a direct consequence of the shifting trilemma.

We have to play our part in minimising costs to our customers and ensuring that energy bills remain affordable. To do so, we have to look at our own costs and how we spend money. We are investing over 200 million in capital this year, and we are looking at every aspect of that to ensure the money is spent efficiently. We also have a multiyear efficiency programme to reduce operating expenditure and improve service delivery.

Energy demand is changing, and we have to continuously review and optimise our tariff structure to reflect those changes with equitable and fair pricing for all of our customers. Its imperative that we also continue to advocate for the right policies that reflect the interests of our customers.

The energy trilemma has shifted and our refreshed strategy reflects that. It will take us through a significant part of the journey to decarbonising the gas network at the same time as addressing security of energy supply and affordability issues.
President Donald Trump said one of the two West Virginia National Guard members shot by an Afghan national near the White House had died, calling the gunman who had worked with the CIA in his native country a savage monster.

As part of his Thanksgiving call to US troops, Mr Trump said that he had just learned that Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, had died, while Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, 24, was fighting for his life.

Shes just passed away, Mr Trump said. Shes no longer with us. Shes looking down at us right now. Her parents are with her.

The president called Ms Beckstrom an incredible person, outstanding in every single way.

National Guard members, from left, Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe and Specialist Sarah Beckstrom (US Attorneys Office via AP)

The president used the announcement to say the shooting was a terrorist attack as he criticised the Biden administration for enabling Afghans who worked with US forces during the Afghanistan War to enter the US. The president has deployed National Guard members in part to assist in his administrations mass deportation efforts.

Mr Trump suggested that the gunman was mentally unstable after the war and departure from Afghanistan.

He went cuckoo. I mean, he went nuts, the president said. It happens too often with these people.

The suspect charged with the shooting is Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, who worked in a special CIA-backed Afghan army unit before emigrating from Afghanistan, according to sources who spoke to the Associated Press, and #AfghanEvac, a group which helps resettle Afghans who assisted the US during the two-decade war.

The Veterans of Foreign Wars post in Webster Springs, where Ms Beckstrom is from, will hold three prayer vigils on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings, according to a Facebook post from the Webster County Veterans Auxiliary.

President Donald Trump speaks to reporters after speaking to troops via video from his Mar-a-Lago estate (Alex Brandon/AP)

Jeanine Pirro, the US attorney for the District of Columbia, declined to provide a motive for Wednesday afternoons brazen act of violence which occurred just blocks from the White House.

The presence of troops in the nations capital and other cities around the country has become a political flashpoint.

She said the suspect launched an ambush-style attack with a .357 Smith & Wesson revolver. The suspect currently faces charges of assault with intent to kill while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence.

Ms Pirro said that its too soon to say what the suspects motives were.

Mr Trump issued an emergency order in August that federalised the local police force and sent in National Guard troops. The order expired a month later, but the troops have remained in the city, where nearly 2,200 troops are currently assigned, according to the governments latest update.

The guard members have patrolled neighbourhoods, train stations and other locations, participated in highway checkpoints and been assigned to pick up rubbish and guard sports events.

At the scene of the shooting, a couple looks at a memorial a day after two National Guard soldiers were shot near the White House (Cliff Owen/AP)

The Trump administration quickly ordered 500 more National Guard members to Washington following Wednesdays shooting.

CIA director John Ratcliffe said in a statement Lakanwals relationship with the US government ended shortly following the chaotic evacuation of US service members from Afghanistan.

Lakanwal entered the US in 2021 through Operation Allies Welcome, a Biden administration programme which evacuated and resettled tens of thousands of Afghans after the US withdrawal from the country, officials said.

He applied for asylum during the Biden administration, but his asylum was approved under the Trump administration, #AfghanEvac said in a statement.

Lakanwal has been living in Bellingham, Washington, about 79 miles north of Seattle, with his wife and five children, said his former landlord Kristina Widman.
Ukraines anti-corruption agencies have said they are conducting searches at the home of Volodymyr Zelenskyys powerful chief aide and lead negotiator in the latest round of peace talks, Andriy Yermak.

Journalists filmed about 10 investigators entering Kyivs government quarter in a widening of the investigation into a nuclear energy kickback scandal allegedly run by an associate of the Ukrainian president who has fled the country.

The national anti-corruption bureau (Nabu) said both it and the specialised anti-corruption prosecutors office, Sapo, were conducting investigative actions at the head of the office of the president of Ukraine.

Yermak is considered the second most powerful figure in Ukraine after Zelenskyy and runs the presidents office, through which the leaders political affairs are channeled. In a short statement, Yermak confirmed that searches were ongoing at his home.

The investigators have no obstacles, he added in a social media statement. They were given full access to the apartment, my lawyers are on site, interacting with law enforcement officers. From my side, I have full cooperation.

The scandal first emerged earlier in November, but after days of damaging revelations, it dropped down the news agenda when Donald Trump unexpectedly released a pro-Russian 28-point peace plan.

But Fridays developments will thrust the scandal back into the spotlight just as Ukraine had been carefully wooing the White House on a 19-point counterproposal, with Yermak fronting talks in Geneva with the US secretary of state, Marco Rubio.

Earlier in November, investigators from Nabu said they had uncovered a high-level criminal scheme at the heart of government. Insiders allegedly received kickbacks of 10-15% from commercial partners of Energoatom, the state-owned nuclear power generator and Ukraines most important energy supplier.

Timur Mindich, an old friend and business partner of the Ukrainian president in the Kvartal 95 TV production company, set up by Zelenskyy before he went into politics, was accused of being the organiser. Mindich fled abroad, leaving his apartment in Kyivs government district hours before investigators came to arrest him.
Ukrainian[/ur] President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced the resignation of his chief of staff Andrii Yermak, whose residence was searched earlier in the day by anti-corruption investigators.

Mr Yermak has been Ukraines lead negotiator in peace talks with Russia and the US, and he has been a trusted confidante of Mr Zelensky for years.

The unprecedented searches at the heart of Ukraines government come at a time when Kyiv is under intense US pressure to sign a peace deal nearly four years after Russia invaded.

In a nod to likely controversy over Mr Yermaks long stay at his side, Mr Zelensky said Russia was waiting for Ukraine to make missteps and upset the delicate and tense peace negotiations.

We dont have a right to retreat or argue between ourselves. If we lose unity, we risk losing everything, ourselves, Ukraine, our future, the Ukrainian leader said. We must unite, we must hold on. We have no other choice. We wont have another Ukraine.

Mr Yermaks name did not appear on a list of officials Mr Zelensky said would make up the Ukrainian delegation for the next round of negotiations with the US.

The president said: To preserve our internal strength, there must be no reasons to be distracted by anything else except for defence of Ukraine. I dont want anybody to be questioning Ukraine, and thats why we have todays decisions.

In his nightly address, he announced he was resetting the presidential office. He said Mr Yermak had submitted his resignation, and he would begin consultations on Saturday to appoint a new chief of staff.

Two national agencies fighting entrenched corruption in Ukraine said their searches targeted Mr Yermak.
The Afghan man accused of shooting two National Guard memberswill face first-degree murder charges for an attack that prompted President Donald Trump to declare he would freeze migration from "Third World Countries" to the US

US Attorney for Washington, D.C., Jeanine Pirro, said on Friday that there will be other charges as well against 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, who she said ambushed the National Guardsmen from West Virginia near the White House on Wednesday.

In a Thanksgiving call with US military service members on Thursday, Mr Trump called the shootings a "terrorist attack," and officials have said they were conducting a terrorism probe into Wednesday's shooting.

"What happened at that crime is unmistakable. It is a premeditated murder," Ms Pirro told Fox News' Fox and Friends program. "We are upgrading the initial charges of assault to murder in the first degree," she said.

Sarah Beckstrom, 20, died of her wounds on Thursday. Pirro told Fox that Ms Beckstrom's fellow Guardsman, Andrew Wolfe, 24, was in critical condition.

This photo combo shows, National Guard members, from left, Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe and Specialist Sarah Beckstrom on Thursday, Nov. 27, 2025. Picture: U.S. Attorneys Office via AP

On his Truth Social platform late Thursday, Mr Trump escalated his rhetoric on immigration. Since taking office this year, he has stepped up arrests of immigrants in the US illegally, cracked down on unlawful border crossings and stripped legal status from hundreds of thousands of people.

"I will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the US system to fully recover, terminate all of the millions of Biden illegal admissions, including those signed by Sleepy Joe Bidens autopen, and remove anyone who is not a net asset to the United States," Mr Trump said on Truth Social, referring to his predecessor.

After taking office in 2021, Mr Biden reversed many of Mr Trump's restrictive immigration policies from his first term, saying they blocked people in need of humanitarian protection and were unfairly discriminatory.

Mr Trump did not name any countries. Asked about "Third World" countries, the US Department of Homeland Security on Friday referred Reuters to 19 countries listed in a June travel ban.

Earlier, Homeland Security officials had said Mr Trump ordered a widespread review of asylum cases approved under the Biden administration and green cards issued to citizens of the 19 countries, which include Afghanistan.

SHOOTING PROMPTS SWEEPING MIGRATION REVIEWS

Lakanwal entered the US in 2021 through Operation Allies Welcome, a Biden-era immigration program to resettle thousands of Afghans who helped the US during the war and feared reprisal from Taliban forces who seized control after the US withdrawal.

More than 70,000 Afghans have been resettled in the U.S. under the program. Officials said Lakanwal was part of a CIA-backed unit in Afghanistan before coming to the US. He was granted asylum this year under Trump, according to a US government file on him seen by Reuters.

This photo provided by the US Attorney's Office on Thursday, Nov. 27, 2025, show Rahmanullah Lakanwal. Picture: US Attorneys Office via AP

Investigators said Lakanwal drove across the country from his home in the state of Washington and shot the two Guardsmen with a powerful revolver, a .357 Magnum, before being wounded in an exchange of gunfire with other troops.

The shootings may give Mr Trump an opening to argue that even legal pathways like asylum pose security risks for Americans.

Less than 24 hours after the shooting, Mr Trump's officials began ordering widespread reviews of immigration policies.

Lakanwal lived in Washington state with his wife and five children, according to investigators. Asked whether he was planning to deport the suspect's wife and five children, who live in Washington state, Trump has said, "We're looking at the whole situation with the family."

INTERNATIONAL GROUPS DEFEND ASYLUM SEEKER RIGHTS

UN agencies appealed to Washington to continue allowing asylum seekers access to the country and to be given due process.

"We expect all countries, including the United States, to honour their commitments under the 1953 Refugee Convention," Farhan Haq, the deputy spokesperson for the UN secretary general, told Reuters.

UN human rights office spokesperson Jeremy Laurence told a Geneva press briefing: "They are entitled to protection under international law, and that should be given due process."

Jasmin Lilian Diab, director of the Institute for Migration at the Lebanese American University, said freezing Afghan applications or reconsidering thousands of approved asylum claims would disrupt families and local communities and erode the integrity of the migration system.

"While the recent incident is tragic, using an isolated incident to justify mass restrictions is inconsistent with evidence showing no link between refugee arrivals and increased crime," Diab told Reuters.

-Reuters
Israeli forces raided a Syrian village and opened fire when they were confronted by residents, killing at least 13 people, Syrian officials said/

The Israeli attack on Friday was the deadliest since its troops seized a swathe of southern Syria a year ago.

Syrias Foreign Ministry called the attack a horrific massacre and said women and children were among those killed.

A Syrian civil defence worker checks a house that was destroyed during an Israeli forces raid in the southern Syrian village of Beit Jin (AP photo)

The Syrian state news agency Sana said Israeli forces entered the village of Beit Jin aiming to seize local men and opened heavy fire after being confronted by residents.

Dozens of families fled the area.

Israel said on Friday it conducted an operation to apprehend suspects from the Jamaa Islamiya militant group in Beit Jin who were planning IED and rocket attacks into Israel.

It said other militants opened fire at the troops, injuring six, and that troops returned fire, including bringing in air support.

It said the operation had concluded, all of the suspects were apprehended and a number of militants were killed.

A local official in the village, Walid Okasha, told The Associated Press that those killed were civilians.

Among the dead were a man, his wife, his two children and his brother as well as another man who had gotten married the day before.

Firas Daher, a Beit Jin resident, told the AP that troops moved in around 3am and were met by slight resistance, with light weapons.

A woman holds a sign during a protest against an Israeli raid in the southern Syrian village of Beit Jin, in Damascus (Ghaith Alsayed/AP)

Troops responded with drones and helicopters and fire from heavy machine guns.

Whenever anyone would move inside the village or any car would move, it would get hit. When we tried to take injured people to the hospital, they would hit the car carrying them, he said.

Since the fall of former Syrian president Bashar Assad in December 2024, Israeli forces have held a slice of southern Syria that was previously a UN-patrolled buffer zone under a 1974 disengagement agreement.

Troops have regularly carried out operations in villages and towns inside and outside the zone, including raids snatching people it says are suspected militants.

Israel has also launched hundreds of airstrikes on Syrian military sites and pushed for a demilitarised zone south of Damascus.

Israeli raids have several times been met by armed local residents.

In April, troops raided the town of Nawa, and when confronted by residents, the military carried out airstrikes in the town, killing nine people.

A month earlier, Israeli forces killed six people in the village of Koayiah in similar clashes during a raid.

Syrian civil defence workers check a house that was destroyed during an Israeli forces raid in the southern Syrian village of Beit Jin (AP photo)

In a previous raid on Beit Jin in June, Israeli forces seized several people who they said were Hamas members  a characterisation disputed by residents  and killed a man whose family said had a history of schizophrenia.

Israel says it seized the 400-square-kilometer (155-square-mile) demilitarised buffer zone in southern Syria in a pre-emptive move to prevent militants from moving into the area after Islamist insurgents toppled Assad.

It says the move is temporary, but critics accuse Israel of taking advantage of Syrias turmoil for a land grab.

Israel still controls the Golan Heights that it captured from Syria during the 1967 Mideast war and later annexed  a move not recognised by most of the international community.

Syrian officials have condemned the Israeli incursions as a violation of Syrias sovereignty.
By Ezgi Unsal, SOAS, University of London

(The Conversation)  In a break from tradition, the next major UN climate summit will be hosted by Turkey but chaired by a different country, Australia. This is the first split arrangement in three decades of these summits, known as Cops. The unusual deal, devised to avoid diplomatic tension, highlights new alliances to fight climate change globally.

Cop31 will take place late next year in the Mediterranean city of Antalya. While a representative from Turkey will be formally elected as the president, Australia will appoint a vice-president to lead the negotiations.

The agreement was reached after almost a full year of stalemate, as both countries had refused to withdraw their bids to host. Turkey had previously stepped back from its bid to host Cop26, which ultimately took place in Glasgow in 2021. For this reason, it was determined to serve as host this time to represent developing nations, as a bridge between Asia and Europe.

Australia, by contrast, aimed to highlight the concerns of endangered Pacific island states through its role in the event. The final agreement between the two countries is unusual, yet it may open the door to greater pluralism and new forms of partnership.

Turkeys role as host is distinct not only because of the unique arrangement with Australia, but also due to its unique position within the UNs climate convention. Turkey signed the Paris agreement in 2016 but delayed ratifying it for five years.

As a founding member of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)  a group of largely high-income countries  Turkey was formally treated by the Paris agreement as an industrialised nation. That meant it was expected to provide financial support for emissions reduction efforts in developing nations  an obligation it disputed.

In 2021, Turkey finally secured a unique recognition as the only developing country among a list of OECD countries (known as annex I), allowing it to finally ratify the treaty.

This status still creates practical challenges. Unlike other developing countries, Turkey has only limited access to international climate finance such as the Green Climate Fund. As Ankara consistently raised the demand to be removed from annex 1, it is likely that the issue will surface during the Cop31 discussions.

Energy politics, climate ambitions

Sitting at the intersection of Europe, the Middle East and central Asia, Turkey also serves as a critical link for major oil and natural gas pipelines from Russia and the Caspian Sea to Europe.

As Europe seeks to reduce its dependence on Russian energy, its growing reliance on alternative routes has increased Turkeys strategic significance. This geopolitical leverage shapes how Turkey approaches its climate diplomacy  and what it is likely to prioritise at Cop31.

After ratifying the Paris agreement, Turkey announced its target of reaching net zero emissions by 2053. There are credible proposals to phase out coal by 2030, while Turkey passed a climate law earlier this year to provide a legal framework for these transitions.

However, the feasibility of these targets remains uncertain. Partly, thats because Turkey has an inconsistent record on complying with international law. But its also because the countrys energy production is booming.

Turkey is the worlds 15th-largest emitter of carbon dioxide, producing around 400 million to 500 million tonnes annually. Emissions are expected to keep rising as energy demand continues to increase in parallel with economic growth.

Although growth slowed after a 2018 currency crisis and the COVID shock, energy use is still projected to increase  just not as sharply as in the 2000s and early 2010s. Turkeys pledge to cut emissions 40% by 2030 should therefore be understood as a reduction relative to a rising baseline.

As the economy boomed in the 2000s, Turkey more than doubled its energy generation capacity, with growth peaking in 2013. Wind and solar capacity grew rapidly, from virtually zero in the 1990s to around 17% in 2025, but most of the new capacity came from power plants fuelled by natural gas.

As the country pledged to phase out coal by 2030, coal plants were not prioritised during this expansion. Yet, the proliferation of gas power raises significant concerns about sustainability.



Photo of Istanbul by Ibrahim Uzun on Unsplash

Adding to this uncertainty, a 2023 amendment now allows mining in previously protected forest areas, raising questions about whether Turkeys legal framework can support a reliable and credible transition to net zero emissions.

All this means that when attention shifts to Antalya next year, Turkey will be under pressure to show its ambitious climate targets are more than just words. The world will be watching to see if a country so embedded in the global fossil fuel trade can help broker a deal that accelerates the end of that era.

Ezgi Unsal, Lecturer in Development Economics, SOAS, University of London

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
The Israeli army and police said Thursday they were investigating the circumstances in which two Palestinians were shot dead in the occupied West Bank while seemingly surrendering to Israeli forces.

The incident in Jenin in the northern West Bank, a stronghold of Palestinian armed groups, was filmed from several angles, including by AFP.

The Palestinian Authority named the two men killed as 37-year-old Yussef Ali Asa'sa and 26-year-old Al-Muntasir Billah Mahmud Abdullah.

It said they were killed in a "brutal" summary execution and condemned the incident as a "war crime".

Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir swiftly backed the forces who opened fire, saying: "Terrorists must die!"

- Blood-soaked floor -

Videos circulating on social media and on television channels showed two men emerging from a building with their arms raised, surrounded by Israeli forces.

They were then seen lying on the ground before being directed back inside the building. Gunshots rang out and the two men were seen lying on the ground.

AFP footage showed the two men exiting the building then entering it again before the shorts were fired. A building between the camera and the scene partially obscured the image.

Troops were later seen removing a body.

AFP pictures from the scene showed the blood-soaked floor of a building. People helped to clear up the damaged site afterwards, moving sheets of corrugated metal.

In a joint statement, the Israeli military and the police -- which oversees the border guard unit -- said they attempted to apprehend "wanted individuals who had carried out terror activities, including hurling explosives and firing at security forces".

They said they "enclosed the structure in which the suspects were located, and initiated a surrender procedure that lasted several hours. Following the use of engineering tools on the structure, the two suspects exited.

"Following their exit, fire was directed toward the suspects.

"The incident is under review by the commanders on the ground, and will be transferred to the relevant professional bodies."

- 'Brutal field execution' -

Israel has occupied the West Bank since 1967.

The Palestinian Authority's health ministry said the two men were "shot dead by Israeli forces in the Jabal Abu Dhahir area in the city of Jenin", adding that their bodies were being held by Israeli forces.

The foreign ministry in Ramallah said it "strongly condemns the brutal field execution carried out by the Israeli occupation army against two Palestinian youths", calling it a "deliberate Israeli war crime".

It urged the international community to take "immediate action to stop the Israeli killing machine, deter these crimes, and impose urgent international protection mechanisms for the Palestinian people".

The Palestinian militant group Hamas called it a "cold-blooded execution of two unarmed Palestinian youths".

Meanwhile, Ben Gvir offered his total backing to the Israeli forces involved.

"I fully support the border guard members and Israeli army soldiers who shot at wanted terrorists who emerged from a building in Jenin," he said on X.

"The forces acted exactly as expected of them -- terrorists must die!"

- 'Dehumanisation' -

Israeli human rights group B'Tselem said the two men were killed "while posing no threat".

"The execution documented today is the result of an accelerated process of dehumanisation of Palestinians and the complete abandonment of their lives by the Israeli regime," said B'Tselem's executive director Yuli Novak.

Violence in the West Bank has soared since Palestinian militant group Hamas's October 2023 attack on Israel triggered the Gaza war.

It has not ceased despite the fragile truce between Israel and Hamas coming into effect last month.

Israeli troops or settlers have killed more than 1,000 Palestinians, many of them militants, but also scores of civilians, in the West Bank since the start of the Gaza war, according to an AFP tally based on Palestinian health ministry figures.

At least 44 Israelis, including both soldiers and civilians, have been killed in Palestinian attacks or Israeli military operations, according to official Israeli figures.
You are free to republish this content online or in print, as long as you respect our Creative Commons license Do not edit or adapt the content without the express agreement of the editors, make sure the authors name (first name and family name) and JusticeInfo.net are mentioned clearly at the beginning of the article. Dont forget to include a link to the article you are republishing (not just to the Justice Info homepage), saying explicitly that you are republishing this content.Please note that image rights cannot be automatically included in our Creative Commons licence. Look at the credits below the images to check whether the content is one to which you hold the rights, or ask the editors about this.Copy the HTML code below into your content management system (CMS). If necessary, contact your webmaster. Once selected, press "Ctrl-C" to copy the code.
The International Criminal Court on Friday rejected a request by former Philippines president Rodrigo Duterte to be released from detention ahead of his trial on crimes against humanity during his war on drugs.

Presiding judge Luz del Carmen Ibanez Carranza told a hearing that lawyers for the 80-year-old had not laid out strong enough precautions to warrant a temporary release from custody in The Hague, where the court is based.

Duterte's lawyers, appealing against an earlier refusal, had called for a "humanitarian" parole because of the state of his health.

The judge said "the conditions for release proposed were not sufficient to mitigate the risks it found in relation to Mr Duterte's interim release".

The court also "rejected the defence's argument that Mr Duterte should be released for humanitarian reasons".

Duterte, who was president from 2016 to 2022, was detained in Manila on March 11 and taken to the ICC prison at Scheveningen, near The Hague. He appeared very weak, barely speaking, when he made his first court appearance by video.

The charges against Duterte have been made over the campaign against drug traffickers and consumers during his presidency that rights groups say left thousands dead.

The court is still to give a ruling on whether Duterte is fit to stand trial. A ruling in October rejected claims by his defence that the ICC was not competent to judge Duterte on three charges of crimes against humanity.

One charge concerns 19 murders committed between 2013 and 2016, when Duterte was mayor of Davao City. A second relates to 14 killings of alleged drug bosses in 2016 and 2017, when he was president. The third covers 43 killings of suspected low-level drug users or dealers.

The Philippines government "respects" the court ruling, a spokeswoman for President Ferdinand Marcos told reporters in Manila. Duterte's daughter Sara Duterte is a vice president.

Rights activists welcomed the latest legal blow to Duterte.

The families of some of those who died in Duterte's campaign watched the hearing by video at a Manila university campus. They erupted in cheers and applause when the decision was announced.

"We really prayed for (Duterte) not to be granted an interim release," Dahlia Cuartero, whose late son Jesus would have turned 33 on Saturday, told AFP. "This is the best birthday gift for him," she said.
The United Nations said Friday that the killing of two Palestinians, shot dead in the West Bank while seemingly surrendering to Israeli forces, was an "apparent summary execution".

"We are appalled at the brazen killing by Israeli border police yesterday of two Palestinian men in Jenin," UN rights office spokesman Jeremy Laurence told reporters in Geneva, calling the incident "yet another apparent summary execution".

He said UN rights chief Volker Turk was calling for for "independent, prompt and effective investigations into the killings of Palestinians", and for those responsible for killings and other violations in the West Bank to "be held fully to account".

The Israeli army and police said Thursday they were investigating the killings in Jenin in the northern West Bank, which was filmed from several angles, including by AFP.

Videos circulating on social media and on television channels showed two men emerging from a building with their arms raised, surrounded by Israeli forces.

They were then seen lying on the ground before being directed back inside the building. Gunshots rang out and the two men were seen lying on the ground.

The Palestinian Authority named the two men killed as 37-year-old Yussef Ali Asa'sa and 26-year-old Al-Muntasir Billah Mahmud Abdullah.

It said they were killed in a "brutal" summary execution and condemned the incident as a "war crime".

In a joint statement, the Israeli military and police -- which oversees the border guard unit -- said they attempted to apprehend "wanted individuals who had carried out terror activities, including hurling explosives and firing at security forces".

Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir backed the forces who opened fire, saying: "Terrorists must die!"

The UN rights office spokesman said the incident came as "killings of Palestinians by Israeli security forces and settlers in the occupied West Bank have been surging, without accountability, even in the rare cases when investigations are announced".

He said "statements by a senior Israeli government official" seeking "to absolve Israeli security forces of responsibility" raised "serious concerns about the credibility of any future review or investigation conducted by any entity that is not fully independent from the government".

Violence in the West Bank has soared since Palestinian militant group Hamas's October 2023 attack on Israel triggered the Gaza war.

It has not ceased despite the fragile truce between Israel and Hamas coming into effect last month.

Laurence said Israeli troops or settlers have killed 1,030 Palestinians in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, since the start of the Gaza war.

"Among these victims were 223 children," he said.

At least 44 Israelis, including soldiers and civilians, have been killed in Palestinian attacks or Israeli military operations, according to official Israeli figures.
I dont understand why Im being prosecuted here in the Netherlands, the accused read from a paper note at the end of the last day of hearings. On November 26, one of the largest human smuggling cases ever tried in the Netherlands concluded before the court of Zwolle, north-east of Amsterdam. Behind the dock, a 42-year-old Eritrean national, Amanuel Walid, also known as Tewelde Goitom, is accused of leading an international criminal network that detained, tortured, raped and extorted refugees in Libya and trafficked them to Europe.

This is the first case against an alleged leader of a criminal group, says Luigi Prosperi, assistant professor at the Utrecht University School of Law. All other European trials connected to migrant smuggling in Libya were against small fish, he tells Justice Info. It is also the first Dutch trial that can look at the whole migration journey, from Eritrea to Ethiopia, Libya, and Europe.

Eritreans ransomed in Netherlands

The suspect was extradited from Ethiopia in October 2022, on accusation of participating in a criminal organisation involved in human trafficking, hostage-taking, extortion and sexual violence between 2014 and 2018. The network operated detention camps, mainly Bani Walid in Libya, where people were held and tortured until families abroad paid ransoms of thousands of US dollars.

The Netherlands started to investigate the network because many Eritreans living in the country said they were extorted from Walids network. An investigation called Pearce started in 2018 and included another traffickers leader, Kidane Zekarias Habtemariam. Kidane has been described by the Dutch police as one of the most notorious and cruel human smugglers in the world. Arrested in Ethiopia in 2020 together with Walid, who has been convicted on charges of human trafficking in Addis Ababa, he escaped a year later, only to be recaptured in Sudan in 2023. Kidane was convicted of financial offences in the United Arab Emirates, and he is also scheduled to be extradited to the Netherlands soon.

Seven days of livestreamed trial

The verdict in Walids trial is scheduled for January 27, and the judges confirmed that they will hear Kidane as a witness if he arrives before then. Like the seven days of hearings in November, the verdict will be livestreamed. This trial received wide national and international attention, according to presiding judge Rene Melaard who said in court that around a thousand people followed the trial online, which was streamed in Dutch, Tigrinya and English.

The trial started on November 3, with the judge reading testimonies of witnesses held in detention in Libya, smuggled to Italy and extorted money. Around 200 of them were heard by the prosecution, and 30 of them are included in the indictment. Four of the victims shared their experiences in the victims phase of the trial. On November 19, looking straight across the room at Walid, the Dutch public prosecutor demanded that he be convicted for the maximum sentence of 20 years. The accused must also serve, after serving his sentence in the Netherlands, the 15 remaining years of his 18-year sentence in Ethiopia. We are dealing with criminal acts whose impact on all victims is simply beyond imagination and beyond all humanity. These offences were committed within a criminal organisation that had an impact on thousands of people, said prosecutor Petra Hoekstra in her closing statements.

In her view, he was one of the most notorious human traffickers on the Central Mediterranean Route. He was the linchpin of a well-oiled organisation that controlled the migrants and the associated flow of money. This was accompanied by serious human rights violations. He deprived victims of their freedom and dignity. He held them in appalling conditions, starved them, tortured them and denied them necessary medical care. He exposed them to life-threatening situations in the desert, in camps and in overcrowded old and leaky boats at sea, without food, fuel or an engine.

These are not events in your courts jurisdiction

The defence said in its closing statement on November 24 that there is not enough evidence to support the charges. What happened in Libya and at sea is harrowing, but in the defence view, these are not events over which your court has jurisdiction, added Walids lawyer Jordi LHomme. He requested the acquittal of his client.

LHomme disputed the maximum sentence of 20 years as inappropriate and said that the prosecutions interpretation that Walid is the kingpin of a well-oiled international smuggling network does not do justice to reality. He referred to a UN report describing how the camps in Bani Walid fell entirely within a Libyan dominated power structure in which armed militias and local landlords like Moussa Diab [a Libyan trafficker sanctioned by the European Union] exercised de facto control over the terrain, security and migrant flows. The lawyer argued that the actual power in and around the camps of Kufra, Bani Walid and Gasr Garabulli [the main Libyan camps mentioned in the case] lay in the hands of Libyan militias, landlords and guards, not smugglers from the Horn of Africa.

Evidence of the fact that Walid was part of a criminal organisation is also lacking, according to the defence. Defence lawyer Simcha Plas said that for the Dutch criminal code, an organisation with the intent to commit crimes must have a recognizable cooperation with certain rules, own rules, own purposes and an internal pressure to conform to that. And theres no question of that here. In her view, this is a loose network of smugglers and intermediate persons that is operating within a power structure dominated by Libyans.

Several witness statements contain suspicions and assumptions regarding the question of what Walids precise role was in smuggling, Plas said, arguing that it cannot provide legal and convincing evidence that the client is guilty. According to her, the accounts on extortion were contradictory, and the witnesses to smuggling did not make the statements based on their own observations, but they say what theyve heard. For instance, witness 89 states that within the warehouse, others said that Walid was the boss.

Not the same person who ran the camps?

The defence repeated their position, from the opening of the trial, that their client is not the same person who ran the camps in Libya. Plas said that the accused was born and raised in Asmara, and had to start working at a young age. At 18 he joined the military service, which is mandatory and often oppressive in Eritrea. He deserted in 2014 and fled to Sudan, where he worked as a taxi driver. He later travelled to Dubai and Ethiopia and had to get a false passport because as a deserter he couldnt obtain one from Eritrea, said Plas.

Many of the witnesses have recognised him in several pictures, the most famous one portrays Walid with a machine gun in one arm and an ammunition belt across his chest. But Plas questions the value of these recognitions: Already since 2019, the image of my client has been used on social media in relation to human trafficking. The lawyer said that her client doesnt deny being the person in the picture. But he does strongly deny being Walid.

Jurisdiction was highly disputed by Walid lawyers. For smuggling, jurisdiction can only be established if the smuggling has the Netherlands as the final destination, argued Plas. According to the defence, the investigation showed that the final destination of the smuggling was Italy, and the royal police did not investigate the journey from there. They didnt focus on which was the final destination and who was in charge of further smuggling in Europe. We think its an irreparable gap. And this gap confirms that the public prosecution has not correctly assessed the jurisdictional issue in this case.

LHomme also said that the court has no jurisdiction for the crime of membership in a criminal organisation either. The violence and sexual offences allegedly took place entirely in Libya between foreign perpetrators and foreign victims. A real concrete connection with the Netherlands is hardly conceivable. He demanded that the public prosecution should therefore be declared inadmissible. LHomme concluded that his client has gradually become the subject of a prosecution that seems primarily intended to provide a future response to a global migration problem. Dutch criminal law cannot solve that problem.

No extorsion without violence

During the prosecution closing statements on November 19, Hoekstra argued that the Netherlands has jurisdiction over all the crimes, as its not a prerequisite that all elements of the charges took place in the Netherlands. She believes that the criminal conduct has enough connections to the Netherlands, as all the witnesses, besides one, arrived there and the phone numbers called for extortions were partly Dutch. There was no smuggling without payments, and no payments without extortion, and no extortion without applying violence.

Aside from Walid and Kidane, the investigation includes five persons based in the Netherlands and suspected of taking part in the extortions and in the money transfer through the hawala - an informal money transfer system. Their trial is set to start in April 2026.

The main camps according to the prosecution were the one in Kufra, where migrants arriving via the desert from Sudan were sold to Walids network, the Chicken Farm and Road 51 in Bani Walid, and the coastal one in Gasr Garabulli, where refugees were kept before they were put on boats to Italy. Videos were shown from some of these camps. Prosecutor Martijn Kappeyne van de Coppello said they did not want to traumatise the victims again and gave time indications for those who wanted to leave during the watch and then come back.

The smugglers divided groups of migrants among themselves, and Walid and Kidane directed others to use violence, managed payment codes, maintained financial records and maintained order, said Hoekstra. A significant part of the organization operated on Dutch soil. There were agreements made about the collection, gathering and bundling of extorted sums of money, and the participants in the Netherlands ensured that the money was returned to the leaders of the criminal organisation via this underground circuit of hawala.

The organisation also systematically abused girls and women. For years women were taken from groups of migrants daily and forced to have sex with members of the organization, Hoekstra told the judges. Hoekstra said Walid managed the camps, decided the ransom amount, oversaw the payments and used violence himself. The prosecution estimated that Walid was paid almost 3 million dollars for the smuggling offence considered in the case.

Kappeyne van de Coppello said that even though for the law human smuggling is a crime against the state, its definitely not a crime without victims. On the contrary, rather.



Four victims in the case have claimed compensation for material and immaterial damage.

Cooperation as catalyst

The judges are now asked to decide on the facts laid out in the over 30,000 pages of the case file. For its investigation, the prosecutor collaborated closely with Italy through a joint investigation team, and it received information from the International Criminal Court (ICC). The joint team also included the United Kingdom, Spain, and Europol.

Prosperi thinks this can set a positive precedent for the ICC. The Court finds itself in this ecosystem, where they are a justice hub. They share information and receive it from states, which say we are available, we are investigating these matters. These joint investigation teams are also a catalyst: when all these actors come together to work on cases, it can create a bit of competition and healthy competitiveness, he adds.

By choosing the right strategies, using each others strong points, sharing information, and collaborating as much as possible, said Hoekstra, there will be more possibilities to tackle these criminal organisations in several EU countries, and end impunity for these violent crimes and for suspects in Libya or Sudan who act as if they are untouchable.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will make his first official visit to Israel in December at a time of heightened tensions in the region, the German government said on Friday.

The German leader will arrive in Israel on December 6 and meet with his Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and visit the Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial on December 7.

"In addition to bilateral relations, the continued stabilisation of the Gaza ceasefire and other international issues will be at the centre of discussions," said deputy spokesperson Steffen Meyer.

The announcement comes days after Berlin decided to lift a partial arms embargo on Israel, imposed in August as a reaction to an escalation in its military offensive in Gaza.

Germany has been one of Israel's staunchest supporters as it seeks to atone for the legacy of the Holocaust.

But in recent months, Merz has occasionally delivered sharp critiques of Israeli policy as German public opinion turns against Israel's actions.

Germany, France, Italy, and the UK on Thursday called for an end to what they called increasing "settler violence against Palestinian civilians" in the occupied West Bank, a day after Israel's military launched a new operation against Palestinian armed groups there.

The Israeli military carried out a fresh series of strikes against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon on Thursday, exactly a year into a ceasefire with the militant group.

Israeli forces on Friday killed 13 people in southern Syria in an operation condemned by Damascus as a "war crime".

When asked about a possible visit to Germany by Netanyahu, who faces an ICC arrest warrant for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza, Meyer said it was "not a topic at the moment".
Shin Min Ah is now gaining more attention from people after her comments about wedding dresses, which she shared just several weeks before her expected wedding in December with long-time boyfriend Kim Woo Bin. The confirmation of their wedding comes after years of public support for their love relationship.

According to Koreaboo, the actress recently appeared in a new video feature where she reflected on her fashion evolution over the years. The project revisited the various outfits she had worn in dramas, photoshoots, and events.

Harper's Bazaar presented a feature in which Shin discussed iconic looks from her career, including several wedding gowns she had worn onscreen. The video introduced the segment of her remarks with her wedding dress from the series "No Gain No Love."

Shin Minah chose the wedding dress she wore in the drama Tomorrow With You the memorable one



So well get to see her wedding dress on December 20th  modern, feminine and beautifully simple, perfectly matching her style #ShinMinAh #ShinMinA pic.twitter.com/HaXzzmoPbK   (@whiterosestea) November 26, 2025

Shin Min Ah then said, "I liked the one from Tomorrow, With You, explaining that while most wedding dresses are flasy and feminine..."

In the video, a brief caption introduced her next comment about the dress's details.

She continued with, "This particular dress was modern and simple."

Her comments soon had fans speculating whether the actress might be teasing the style she'll don for her own ceremony next month. The comments section of the Harper's Bazaar video and social media platforms were filled with speculation and congratulatory messages from viewers.

One user shared, "The December bride Minah, who looks better in a wedding dress than anyone else in the world.. Congratulations on your marriage ."

Another comment was introduced with a brief note stating it came from a separate viewer.

The user said, "Her face is already perfection, so she looks beautiful no matter what she wears. Woo Bin-ssi, wishing you both happiness "

Shin Min Ah and Kim Woo Bin will be holding their wedding on December 20, one of the most highly-anticipated Korean celebrity weddings this year.

In other news, as reported by Kenh14, Shin Min-ah and Ju Ji-hoon will reunite for the third time in the highly anticipated Disney+ fantasy drama "The Remarried Empress," drawing strong fan excitement as the pair returns to the screen after their previous collaborations in "Lucifer" (2007) and the controversial film "The Naked Kitchen (2009)."

Their new roles reverse their past dynamic, with Ju Ji-hoon portraying Emperor Sovieshu, who casts aside his devoted wife, while Shin Min-ah plays Empress Navier, a character who regains her power by remarrying Prince Heinrey, played by Lee Jong-suk.

Fans have taken to social media to compare the emotional turmoil of Shin's past characters to her new, more empowering role, while industry insiders note the casting was intentional to leverage the duo's long-standing chemistry.

With its themes of betrayal, resilience, and feminine strengthcombined with a high-profile cast"The Remarried Empress" is already positioned as one of 2025's most anticipated dramas, set to premiere on Disney+ later this year.
Actress Seo Min-joo revealed the extensive preparations behind her portrayal of detective Lee So-young in the crime action comedy "The Information Agent," including visits to police units and giving up makeup to play the character authentically.

The interview was held on Nov. 26 at a cafe in Hapjeong-dong, Seoul, after the film's release. It focuses on former ace detective Oh Nam-hyeok (Heo Sung-tae) and informant Jo Tae-bong (Jo Bok-rae) getting caught up in an unexpected high-stakes case. The project is directed by Kim Seok and produced by Popcorn Film. OSEN first reported the behind-the-scenes details.

Seo explained the early challenges of portraying a detective in a calm, reflective tone. Introducing her remarks, she said, "The job of a detective was so unfamiliar and unfamiliar to me. I was like, what should I do? At the time, all I could do was search or look for movies. That's how I got the source. I was like, 'Why don't you try going to the police station?'"

She added, "After hearing about it through a series of rumors, I ended up going to the narcotics investigation team, where I saw and learned a lot. There were no female detectives there. I went there primarily to see how the detectives worked. So I interviewed a female detective separately, which was quite helpful."

Chosun Biz previously reported the interest of the industry in the film's commitment to authenticity in production, which matches Seo's first-hand observations. For an example of such details she learned, she cited "It's a detail. The detectives don't carry bags. They all wear them on their belts. Only the youngest ones carry bags. Also, the detectives don't wear heavy things. Even if they come wearing coats, they all change into windbreakers. I got the source for their appearance, and I think I observed the details of how they conduct investigations."

Seo said, "When I interviewed the female detective, she was very quiet. After that, I followed her to work, and she really changed. She was very gentle, and when we went to the market together to look at the CCTV, she was talking to the manager. She's a bit different when she's working. That was interesting."

She also talked about her physical approach to the role. Working without makeup, she said, meant ""I didn't wear makeup to express myself naturally. I didn't lose any weight, and the director told me not to. So I ate a lot of late-night snacks, but I gradually lost weight while filming."

Another follow-up comment: "Actually, when I watch the movie now, I don't really like (my appearance). At the time, I was playing a detective. I thought (no makeup) was right, so I did it naturally. I liked it, and I thought it was right (for the character). But now that I look at it, I think, 'Maybe I should have lost some weight.'"

Now, "The Information Agent" draws attention for its depth of characters and commitment to realism, helped in no small measure by Seo Min-joo's immersive preparation.






Friday, November 28, 2025 - A Nairobi court has released 21yearold Churchill Ouma on humanitarian grounds after he candidly confessed to being found with 200 grams of bhang valued at Ksh2,000.

Ouma was first arraigned on November 20th, 2025, where he denied the charges and entered a plea of not guilty.

He was admitted to a bond of Ksh100,000 with a surety of a similar amount, or an alternative cash bail of Ksh30,000.

However, when he appeared before Milimani Principal Magistrate Rose Ndombi on Friday, November 28th, Ouma changed his plea to guilty.

He admitted that cannabis was indeed found in his possession but explained that it was inside a bag he had picked up while trying to trace its owner.

The young man told the court that it was his first time in Nairobi and that he was arrested while confused and searching for the rightful owner of the luggage.

Nilipatikana na bhangi, ndio, sijakataa, lakini sikupatwa nayo kwa mkono; nilipatwa nayo kwa bag ambayo siku hiyo nilisafiri, he said, pleading for forgiveness.

Ouma further revealed that he was preparing travel documents to Qatar, where he had secured employment, and asked the court to consider his situation.

Magistrate Ndombi ruled in his favor, noting the low street value of the bhang and his plans to travel for work.

She released him on humanitarian grounds but cautioned him against repeating the offence.





The Kenyan DAILY POST
China, U.S. should jointly defend outcomes of the victory of WWII

14:39, November 28, 2025 By Zhong Sheng ( People's Daily

On the evening of November 24, Chinese President Xi Jinping spoke with U.S. President Donald Trump on the phone. This was the first interaction between the two heads of state since their meeting in Busan, South Korea.

The call provided strategic guidance for both sides to further implement the common understandings reached in Busan and maintain the overall momentum of stability and improvement in China-U.S. relations. It also sent a positive message to the world about safeguarding the post-war international order and promoting global peace and stability.

Head-of-state diplomacy has always served as an anchor guiding the development of China-U.S. relations. The Busan meeting was not only a historic moment in bilateral ties, but also a landmark event in international relations.

Since the meeting, both sides have actively implemented the common understandings reached by the two leaders, helping bilateral relations maintain a generally steady and positive trajectory.

Observers in both countries and the international community have taken note that the U.S. side has removed the 10-percent so-called "fentanyl tariffs" imposed on Chinese goods, suspended the 24-percent reciprocal tariffs levied on Chinese goods, paused the implementation of the "Affiliates Rule," suspended the Section 301 investigation into China's shipbuilding and related sectors. China has also suspended relevant countermeasures accordingly.

These developments reaffirm a fact repeatedly proven in practice: China and the U.S. achieve mutual gains through cooperation and incur losses through confrontation. A future of shared success and prosperity is both visible and attainable.

What has happened demonstrates yet again that the description of China-U.S. cooperation benefiting both sides and confrontation hurting both sides reflects a common sense that has been repeatedly proven by experience, and the vision of China and the U.S. helping each other succeed and prospering together is a tangible prospect within reach.

The current stabilizing and improving momentum in China-U.S. relations has not come easily. It is the result of the two leaders' steering at the strategic level and requires joint efforts from both sides to sustain. For two countries to be partners and friends is both a profound lesson bestowed by history and an inevitable requirement for practical development.

The two sides should keep up the momentum, keep moving forward in the right direction on the basis of equality, respect and mutual benefit, lengthen the list of cooperation and shorten the list of problems, so as to make more positive progress, create new space for China-U.S. cooperation and bring more benefits to the people of both countries and the world.

The Taiwan question is at the core of China's core interests. It is a red line that must not be crossed. Xi clarified China's principled position during the call, stressing that Taiwan's return to China is an important part of the post-war international order. China and the U.S. Once fought side by side against fascism and militarism. At present, they should jointly safeguard the victorious outcomes of WWII.

Trump noted that China was a big part of the victory of World War II. The U.S. understands how important the Taiwan question is to China.

Communication between the two heads of state carries significant practical importance. Recently, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has made severe provocations on the Taiwan question, described a hypothetical scenario concerning Taiwan as a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan, implying the possibility of armed intervention in the Taiwan Strait.

This not only seriously violates the one-China principle but also represents a blatant challenge to the post-war international order. Her remarks have already triggered international concern and alarm about Japan's dangerous strategic trajectory.

As countries that made major sacrifices for the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War and as permanent members of the UN Security Council, China and the U.S. share a responsibility to safeguard the post-war international order and firmly oppose any attempt to revive militarism or undermine regional and global peace and stability.

In the face of mounting challenges, China and the U.S. should demonstrate major-country responsibility. By adhering to mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation, they can fully achieve mutual success and shared prosperity, and accomplish more great and concrete things for the good of the two countries and the whole world, thus better benefiting themselves and the world at large.

(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)
High Court reporters

Some 15,000 of jailed teacher Enoch Burke's salary will have to be paid to Wilson's Hospital School to pay for a debt he owes over some of his trespasses on the premises, the High Court ordered today.

Mr Justice Brian Cregan also said he may yet consider having certain Burke family cars, which were used to drive Mr Burke onto the school grounds, sequestered to the State.

It is not necessary to do so now, as Mr Burke is in prison again, but the judge said the court will consider it again at a later date should it prove necessary.

The judge was giving a second judgment in relation to outstanding matters since he ordered the immediate jailing of Mr Burke for his continuing contempt by turning up at the school again.

He was picked up by gardai this week and brought directly to Mountjoy prison, making it his fourth time in prison in the last three years for the same breach, and he has racked up more than 225,000 in daily fines for doing so.

He claims he is in prison for refusing to endorse transgenderism as a teacher in Wilson's Hospital School, from which he was suspended three years ago, and a final hearing over his dismissal awaits the outcome of a further legal challenge. In the meantime, his salary continues to be paid, but the money is going to the State because he continued to turn up at the school.

The judge told him he was not in prison for his views on transgenderism but must, to purge his contempt, give an undertaking not to trespass on the school again.

"He does not have to give any undertaking that he will follow the school principal's direction to call a child "they" or "them". He does not have to accept transgenderism.

"He does not have to stop protesting against transgenderism. He does not have to change his religious beliefs one iota", he said.

The idea that he was imprisoned because of his religious beliefs, as he has claimed, "was nonsense", the judge said.

Mr Burke is being imprisoned because he is trespassing on other people's property. No more. No less

"Mr Burke is being imprisoned because he is trespassing on other people's property. No more. No less", he said.

Mr Burke appeared in court today from Mountjoy Prison via video-link. Before the link could be established, the judge noticed his brother Isaac and father Sean in the courtroom.

The judge told Isaac he would have to leave as he had no right of audience before the court and reminded him that gardai have had to remove him and other members of his family previously for disruptive conduct.

Isaac said there was no basis for him to be removed, as his brother had not been produced in person, he had "no advocate" and he (Isaac) was there to produce documents.

The judge rose while gardai removed both him and his father from the courtroom.

Later, via video-link, Enoch Burke said he had a preliminary application to make in relation to his appearance in court. He said he was given to understand by the prison authorities on Thursday that he would be brought to court in person, he said.

But he found that Rosemary Mallon, barrister for the school, had applied to the court on Thursday to have a video link production, which meant he was not in the body of the court, and he was deprived of his legal files. This was, he said, to "gratify the whim of my adversary", and he wanted an explanation for it.

The school's solicitors had sought to clarify from the court whether Mr Burke would need to be produced for the hearing of today's judgment, given that he had since been arrested and brought to prison. They were told by the Court Service that they would have to make such an application.

Mr Burke said that the explanation did not stand up to scrutiny as he was not notified.

Mr Justice Cregan said no criticism could be levelled at Ms Mallon. Mr Burke did not understand the nature of "ex parte" applications (where only one side is represented), he said.

When Mr Burke continued to complain that the truth was not being told by Ms Mallon or the court, the judge told him, "I am not going to take any lectures from you on honesty".

The judge also said he did not know how Mr Burke had been notified he would be produced in court today, when the only order that had been made was that he be brought in on December 18.

He said he intended to read his judgment on the outstanding matters and would adjourn any applications arising to next Wednesday when Mr Burke could be produced in person.

Mr Burke's audio was then muted by order of the judge, and when unmuted after the judgment was read, he continued to protest that he was in prison over his transgenderism views.

The court then moved on to the next case.
Isabel Hayes

A man who engaged in a high-speed garda chase with his 13-year-old child in the car, reaching speeds of 160km/h and colliding with two garda cars, has been jailed for two years and nine months.

The incident occurred around 1.30 am in the morning in March 2023 after gardai noticed the Dublin man (44) driving his Jaguar car in a suspicious manner, Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard on Friday.

His 13-year-old son was a passenger in the car.

The man cannot be named to protect the anonymity of his child.

He took off at speed and was pursued by several gardai around swathes of south county Dublin, including Carrickmines, Stepaside, around Johnnie Fox's pub and on the M50.

He reached speeds of 100 km/h on rural roads, drove on the wrong side of the road and around the wrong side of roundabouts, broke red lights and reached 160km/h on the M50, Fiona McGowan BL, prosecuting, told the court.

On the M50, he collided with one garda vehicle, causing it to spin several times. The garda driver used his two feet to brake the car, which he managed to bring to a stop on the side of the road.

The garda was very shaken after the crash, the court heard.

The second collision occurred after gardai in another patrol car noticed the Jaguar slowing and decided to overtake it. However, the man sped up the Jaguar, which then collided at speed with the patrol car.

This collision brought the pursuit to an end, the court heard.

The child was cared for by authorities while the man was questioned, and he was released that night. He was formally interviewed about a week later. No one was injured during the incident.

The man pleaded guilty to two counts of endangerment, two counts of dangerous driving and one count of driving without insurance on March 5th 2023.

A number of other counts, including driving without a driver's licence, were taken into consideration.

He has 24 previous convictions, including robbery, attempted robbery, theft, taking a vehicle and road traffic offences.

Cathal McGreal BL, defending, said his client was in a bad state of mind after a fight with his wife that evening.

His son left the house with him, and the man then panicked when he saw gardai as he had no insurance or driver's licence. This set off an appalling series of dangerous driving incidents for which the man is now very remorseful, defence counsel submitted.

He could have killed someone, but he didn't, Mr McGreal said.

Judge Martin Nolan said the man's explanation for his actions that night was insubstantial and that any person stopped by the guards should accept the punishment if they have no licence or insurance.

He noted the maximum sentence for endangerment is seven years, and he set a headline sentence of six years.

Taking mitigating factors into account, including the man's guilty plea and co-operation with gardai, he reduced this to two years and nine months.

He disqualified the man from driving for six years.
RELATIVES of a Laois man killed in an accident on a family farm almost three years ago have claimed the length of time it is taking for an investigation into his death to be completed is extremely distressing. Ronan Culleton (43), a married father of three and engineer from Cloonagh, Mountmellick, Co Laois, died in Beaumont Hospital in Dublin on December 28, 2022 where he had been transported by air ambulance following an incident on his fathers farm three weeks earlier.

Mr Culleton suffered traumatic head injuries in an accident which was classified as a workplace fatality.

His sister, Maria, told a sitting of Dublin District Coroners Court that waiting to find out what was happening in an investigation being conducted by the Health and Safety Authority into her brothers death was extremely distressing for his family.

She claimed the length of time was particularly hard for her parents because the fatal incident was on the family farm as well as whether there would be any related prosecution.

Ms Culleton made her comments after an inspector with the Health and Safety Authority, Trevor Ryan-Nesbitt, had applied for a six-month adjournment of the inquest.

Mr Ryan-Nesbitt told the coroner, Aisling Gannon, that the investigation into Mr Culletons death was in its final stages. He also said the HSA would revert back sooner to Ms Gannon if they received directions from the DPP over any potential criminal prosecution.

Fighting back tears, Ms Culleton, who attended the brief hearing via videolink, said her family did not know what was happening and asked if the case could be expedited by only allowing for a three-month adjournment.

The coroner replied that she completely supported the familys application.

Ms Gannon also requested the HSA to provide her and the Culleton family in advance of the next hearing date with a detailed written report of0 the investigation it has undertaken to date.

The coroner said the HSA should also refer to the prospects of any prosecution.

Ms Gannon remarked that she believed her ruling was very reasonable. She asked that some understanding should be offered to the Culleton family in terms of the time of year if there were going to be significant updates or details in advance of Christmas.

Ms Gannon also requested for some sensitivity to be shown to the parents of the deceased and for any communications to be provided with the least stress possible. The coroner adjourned the inquest to February 1, 2026 for a further update on the progress of the HSA investigation.
Stephen Bourke and Paul Neilan

A company owned by one of Britains richest men has won a landmark equality law appeal as the High Court has ruled a corporate entity is entitled to pursue a racial discrimination claim challenging the application of financial sanctions against Russia.

XTX Markets Technologies Ltd, owned by billionaire financial trader Dr Alexander Gerko, had a complaint under the Equal Status Act 2000 dismissed by the Workplace Relations Commission in 2023 on the grounds that it had no standing under the legislation.

The companys substantive allegation - that Aviva Investors Liquidity Funds PLC discriminated against it by refusing to let it buy in due to its association with the Russian-born Dr Gerko - may now be referred back to the WRC for a decision.

In 2021 and 2022, XTX had engaged with the Aviva investment fund about the provision of investment services, the High Court noted.

There was concern that the investment fund was barred from selling certain euro-denominated transferable securities  stocks and bonds  because of EU sanctions targeting Russian nationals and companies following the invasion of Ukraine.

Dr Gerko obtained British citizenship in 2016 and gave up his Russian passport in 2022, but was still a joint citizen of both nations at the time of the alleged discrimination, the court noted.

Ultimately, the fund refused to do business with XTX, citing the sanctions regime.

WRC adjudicator Valerie Murtagh was persuaded by the argument that XTX did not have standing to bring such a claim as a private limited company and found she had no jurisdiction to investigate the matter.

She noted that she was following a line of decisions dating back to 2008, when the Gloria LGBT choir was found by the Equality Tribunal to have no standing to pursue a claim against the Cork International Choral Festival.

The decision was affirmed on appeal to the Circuit Court, and XTX then pursued a further appeal to the High Court.

The central issue in the case was the way that the word person was used in the Equal Status Act.

XTX, represented by barristers Lorna Lynch SC and Owen Keany BL in the matter, took the position at the WRC that the word person ought to be interpreted as including corporate entities.

Kate Egan BL, for the investment fund, argued that the legislation appears to contemplate a corporate entity as a possible perpetrator of discrimination only.

Potential victims of discrimination could only be natural persons, it was further submitted.

At appeal stage, XTXs lawyers argued further that this restrictive interpretation was inconsistent with the European directive on racial equality, which specifically envisaged that the protections provided at national level would include protections for corporate entities against such discrimination

In her ruling, Ms Justice Siobhan Phelan wrote that while all of the protected characteristics shielded by the Equal Status Act were inherently human  but that they were clearly capable of attaching themselves to others, whether they were natural persons, corporate entities, or other legal persons.

She noted the argument that a legal person, like a company, could be discriminated against because it employs Muslims or gay and transgendered persons.

Fear of such discrimination on the part of an employer could lead to discriminatory practices in hiring, she added.

If the respondents stance on the definition of corporate personhood held sway, the judge wrote, a hypothetical company which lost out on business because it employed a person with a protected characteristic would have no recourse.

I am satisfied that a legal entity may have standing to bring a claim under the 2000 Acts, Judge Phelan wrote.

Far from suggesting a restricted field of application, however, the language, purpose and context of the legislation all support expansive provision for protection for discrimination and promotion of equality rather than the contrary, the judge added.

She wrote that her provisional view was that the ruling of the circuit court should be set aside and the matter should be referred back to the WRC for a full hearing.

The judge added that she would hear submissions from the parties on her final order in the matter if the same cannot be agreed.

Ms Lynch and Mr Keany were instructed by Ledwith Solicitors LLP for XTX in the matter. Ms Egan, for the investment fund, was instructed by A&L Goodbody.
A Pennsylvania State Police trooper who was a member of Gov. Josh Shapiros security detail is suing his employer in federal court, claiming diversity initiatives resulted in him being removed and replaced by less-qualified minority troopers.

Joshua Mack, a corporal with the state police who spent 14 years on the detail, said his removal from the position in March followed comments from his supervisors discussing the need to hire more minorities to the detail.

Shortly after he was removed, Mack said a Black state trooper and a Hispanic state trooper were hired to replace him on the detail.

Mack is suing Pennsylvania State Police, Cpl. John Nicholson and Lt. Col. George Bivens under Title VII, the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act and the contract clause of Section 1981.

Hes asking a federal judge to reinstate him to the security detail and order that he be compensated for backpay and lost benefits.

The governors security detail is an elite unit responsible for providing security for the governor and governors family. Members receive specialized training, the use of a state-owned vehicle and receive significant overtime opportunities not available to other troopers, the lawsuit said.

Mack said he heard his supervisor, Nicholson, talk about the need to diversify the governors security detail by hiring more minorities in the weeks leading up to his removal on March 25, 2025.

After his removal, Mack said he was replaced by two minority state troopers who were less qualified and lacked any dignitary-protection experience.

The administrative shuffle resulted in Mack being reassigned to another unit further from his home. He says he lost access to a state vehicle and lost the lucrative overtime opportunities.

At the time of his removal, Mack was the longest-serving supervisor on the governors security detail aside from Nicholson, the lawsuit said. And since his removal, supervisors over Mack have told him the decision was not based on performance or any other legitimate reason, according to the lawsuit.

Macks removal from his position came three weeks before Harrisburg-area resident Cody Balmer jumped the fence at the Governors Residence and used two Molotov cocktails to set the house on fire.

The governors office declined to comment on the lawsuit because it is pending litigation. PennLive could not reach a state police spokesperson before publication.
County Route 626, off Belvidere Road in White Township. reopened with improvements designed to protect the road from flooding. Photo courtesy of Warren County

Lommason Glen Road has reopened after a half-mile section destroyed by flooding from a July 2023 storm was rebuilt with enhanced protections against future weather events, Warren County officials announced this week.

The project reconstructed the damaged section of County Route 626, off Belvidere Road in White Township. and added improvements designed to protect the road from flooding by a tributary of Buckhorn Creek that runs alongside and under the roadway.

The 2023 storm caused severe damage that required immediate intervention. Crews closed a breach of a bridge south of Hemlock Lane, erected a retaining wall to direct water flow through the bridge, and stabilized the downstream bank.

Workers also extended an existing retaining wall upstream, filled a 20-foot-deep shoulder collapse that extended halfway into a travel lane, and removed fallen trees from the creek.

Warren County Public Works Director Emily A. Hammer said officials worked with residents throughout the process. We thank the residents for their patience, she said. All residents with property fronting on Lommason Glen were considered in the implementation of the work, and inquiries from the community were addressed throughout the project as it progressed.

The project required regulatory approval from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and included environmental safeguards.

A herpetologist visited the site daily to ensure turtles stayed out of the work zone, and crews followed seasonal time restrictions to protect native brook trout.

The stream was repositioned to its natural course, with pools returning to provide habitat for local wildlife.

The rebuilt road includes more than 1,200 linear feet of guiderails and crash cushions, along with increased signage and traffic markings. To prevent future storm damage, crews created gentler slopes on stream banks, installed more than 1,000 feet of vegetated soil stabilization material, added multiple cross drains, and established a consistent 20-foot stream channel.

Workers installed 1,200 linear feet of retaining wall with foundations ranging from 2 feet to 5 feet deep and approximately 1,200 linear feet of rip-rap filled gabion baskets. Native material from the stream bed was used to maintain the areas natural appearance.

The project team included Hammer and Jason Abelman from the Warren County Department of Public Works, Colliers Engineering and Design, and Sparwick Contracting, Inc.

Generative AI was used to structure and draft this story based on information provided by Warren County. It was reviewed and edited by lehighvalleylive.com staff.
Following the devastating fire that burned down Bernie's Supervalu in Roscrea on November 11, a Laois village has organised a concert fundraiser for the village.

Donaghmore Workhouse will host a 'Super-Support' concert in aid of the business, hoping to raise funds towards the supermarket's restoration. This fundraiser has been organised by Rathdowney actor and playwright, Micheal Creagh.

"I think we all got a shock when we saw the devastating fire at SuperValu in Roscrea," Mr Creagh told the Leinster Express / Laois Live.

Pictured: Devastating fire destroys local business

"Of course we're all relieved that there were no injuries or worse. But now a lot of good people have to pick up the pieces of their lives and livelihoods. The people of Roscrea have given us musicians here in Rathdowney many years of love and support by coming out to hear us sing and play," he said.

"A bunch of us over here across the border in lovely Laois have just today put our 'auld heads together and agreed that we want to give back some of that love and support," Mr Creagh explained.

"On Saturday November 29, we're going to gather our auld bones in Donaghmore Workhouse Dining Hall to put on a fundraising concert for you."

The concert will take place at 8pm, following on from the turning on of Rathdowney's Christmas Lights at the brewery bridge in the bordering town.

"We will tear it out of it until about 10.30pm," Mr Creagh joked.

"There will be no specific admission charge but people can donate one euro, or whatever they can afford at this critical time of year. We will give you a night to remember with all our local legends, while gathering a few bob to help all the lovely folk affected by this awful fire," he said.

Mr Creagh highlighted that 100% of funds raised will go directly towards the Tipperary business.

"All of the musicians are giving their services for free, and Trevor Stanley is kindly throwing the doors open with a heart and a half for a nighy of 'Super-Support'. Please spread the word, and don't miss out on a night for SuperValu!" Mr Creagh finished.

Join Laois locals for a night of music for a fantastic cause at Donaghmore Workhouse, November 29 from 8pm onwards.
Laois TDs Willie Aird and Sean Fleming welcomed the awarding of 611,124 for nine community projects under the CLAR Programme in Laois.

The funding went to projects in Ballyfin, Crettyard, Rathdowney, Mountrath, Raheen, Coolrain, Ballaghmore, Donaghmore and Vicarstown.

CLAR is a targeted investment programme designed to provide funding for small infrastructural projects in rural areas that have experienced significant depopulation. Its aim is to support sustainable development by attracting people to live and work in CLAR areas.

Deputy Aird said this is excellent news for Laois and a real endorsement of the great work being done by local groups here.

The nine projects receiving this funding will provide long-lasting benefits, improving key amenities and ensuring that communities across Laois continue to flourish.

According to Dep Aird, this funding will help create better environments for people to come together, whether its for sports, cultural events, or simply to enjoy time in shared spaces.

Deputy Fleming said the funding will make a real difference in peoples lives, helping to improve local facilities, create safer and more accessible spaces, and bring communities closer together.

It helps us create strong, resilient, and vibrant communities where families can thrive, young people can grow and stay close to home, and local clubs and schools can continue to flourish, said Dep Fleming.

He said initiatives like this demonstrate the real impact that can be achieved when communities, local representatives, and government work together to deliver positive, lasting change.

Deputy Aird said with more people living and working in Laois than ever before, it is important that rural Ireland continues to be prioritised to allow people live, work and grow old in their own communities. I wish to congratulate all of the successful applicants, and I wish them well in bringing their projects to fruition.

Dep Fleming wished all nine community projects across county Laois every success and said these projects were being brought to fruition for the benefit of the communities and Co Laois.
Midlands Ireland's excellent work with STEM engagement in the region was recognised at two national awards ceremonies on Thursday, 27 November.

Midlands Ireland, led by Laois County Council in collaboration with Longford County Council, Offaly County Council and Westmeath County Council, was named as a winner at this years Excellence in Local Government Awards which celebrated outstanding projects delivered in 2025.

These awards, hosted by Chambers Ireland and sponsored by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, honour the exceptional work carried out by Local Authorities across the country.

Midlands Ireland was the winner of the Local Authority Innovation category for the Driving STEM in the Midlands Initiative.

(L-R) Ian Talbot, Siobhan Grealy, Former Tanaiste Simon Coveney, Christine Collins, Kieran ODonnell TD, Cllr Barry Walsh, Antoinette Brennan, Tomas Mulcahy, Kelley Keogh, Angela McEvoy, Seanie Morris, and Ray Bell at the Excellence in Local Government Awards (Photo courtesy of Chambers Ireland)

Laois County Council was also shortlisted on the night in the following categories: Climate Change for Portlaoise: Irelands First Low Carbon Town; Health & Wellbeing for the Live Well Health and Wellbeing Expo; Local Authority Innovation for MyPays Robotic Process Automation - Superannuation Starters Project; and the Municipal District Initiative for Refurbishment of the Peoples Park, Portarlington.

READ NEXT: Touching: Laois village to hold concert fundraiser for Roscrea business destroyed by fire

Midlands Ireland were also recognised earlier in the day at the #OurEUStory Awards by Access Europe.

The #OurEUStory competition required entries to be based on a video presentation. In their presentation, Midlands Ireland highlighted how their EU funded project, 'Driving STEM in the Midlands', has benefitted communities in the Midlands in promoting STEM participation and retention for a sustainable future in technology and digitalisation.

(L-R) Seanie Morris, Antoinette Brennan, Kelley Keogh, Cllr Barry Walsh, and Christine Collins at the #OurEUStory awards

The work of Laois County Council's STEM Engagement Officer Seanie Morris was highlighted in the video, as well as Siobhan Grealy of Longford County Council, Dean Hodge from Offaly County Council, and Westmeath County Council's Kelly Keogh.

Seanie Morris also gave in-depth presentation on how Midlands Ireland was actively promoting STEM engagement in Laois at the November meeting of Laois County Council. In that presentation, he spoke about the phenomenal increase in the numbers of Laois children participating in STEM programmes and potential future initiatives involving older people in the community.

Their video was awarded second place in the #OurEUStory competition for excellence in communicating the impact of EU funding on Midlands Ireland and its community.

Commenting on the success of Midlands Ireland at the awards, Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council, Barry Walsh said: The recognition Midlands Ireland has received is a proud moment for Laois County Council. It demonstrates the strength of our vision and the dedication of our teams to deliver projects that not only meet local needs but set a benchmark for excellence nationally.

Adding to this, Angela McEvoy, Director of Services at Laois County Council, said: This recognition is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in the Midlands. We are proud to play a role in creating opportunities that inspire young people to pursue STEM pathways and make STEM accessible and exciting for all. Id like to thank our fantastic STEM Engagement Officers and the teams in Laois, Longford, Offaly and Westmeath for their dedication in inspiring the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers.
Kildare County Council is inviting expressions of interest from primary schools in the county wishing to participate in an innovative Irish language planning initiative, Sceim na bhFainni 2026.

Developed by Kildare County Councils Irish Language Committee, Coiste Gaeilge and supported by Cill Dara le Gaeilge and Conradh na Gaeilge, this initiative aims to encourage and support the increased use of the Irish language among sixth class students, as they prepare for the important transition to post-primary education.

To participate, teachers are asked to facilitate a six-week programme aiming to increase the amount of spoken Irish in the four weeks leading up to and during Seachtain na Gaeilge.

Content and Language Integrated Learning is central to the programme e.g. Ealain (Art) through Irish, Corpoideachas (Physical Education) through Irish, Ceol (Music) through Irish etc.

READ NEXT: Motorist in this Kildare town stopped for a litany of driving offences

As part of the programme, students are required to undertake two Irish language-related projects of their own choosing. These may include:

Researching the Irish origins of Logainmneacha Aitiula (Local Placenames)

Collecting Seanfhocail agus Nathanna Cainte (Irish Proverbs and Idioms)

Staging a Drama as Gaeilge (Irish Language Drama)

Hosting Coinni Puipead (Puppet Meet and Greets) as Gaeilge

Creating Meimeanna Gaeilge (Irish Language Memes)

During Seachtain na Gaeilge 2026, upon successful completion of Sceim na bhFainni projects, participating students will be presented with a Fainne Gaeilge and their schools will receive Teastas Sceim na bhFainni (Sceim na bhFainni Certificate).

Speaking at the event, the Cathaoirleach of the County of Kildare, Cllr Carmel Kelly said; Kildare County Council is proud to launch Sceim na bhFainni, an initiative that celebrates our rich Irish language heritage and empowers sixth class students to embrace spoken Irish in their daily lives.

By supporting creative projects and encouraging informal use of Irish, we hope to foster confidence and a lifelong connection to our national language as students prepare for the transition to post-primary education. I commend the dedication of our schools, teachers, and partners in making this scheme a reality for the young people of County Kildare.

An Comhairleoir Noel Connolly, Cathaoirleach Choiste Gaeilge Chomhairle Contae Chill Dara (Chair of Kildare County Councils Irish Language Committee) said: Coiste Gaeilge has built upon the pilot scheme and research that had been done by the outgoing Coiste Gaeilge committee, and we are delighted to now administer Sceim na bhFainni to up to 20 schools across County Kildare.

It is wonderful to have support from Conradh na Gaeilge and Cill Dara le Gaeilge and we are very much looking forward to visiting schools and meeting teachers and students across the county during Seachtain na Gaeilge, to learning about the various Sceim na bhFainni class projects and to presenting students with their Fainni Gaeilge.

The Irish language seanfhocal (proverb) Mol an Oige agus Tiocfaidh Si encourages the celebration of childrens achievements as a way in which confidence is fostered. Members of Coiste Gaeilge believe this seanfhocal aptly encapsulates the ethos and objective of Sceim na bhFainni.

Expressions of interest can be made by school principals, by emailing: teangabheo@kildarecoco.ie by 3pm Monday, January 12 2026, including the following details:

School name and the name(s) of the sixth-class teacher(s) who would facilitate the initiative.

A brief explanation of how sixth-class students in your school would benefit from participating in Sceim na bhFainni.

The current number of sixth-class students enrolled in your school.

Places will be allocated to 20 schools based on the responses to question 2, with an equal number of places distributed across each Municipal District.

For further details on Sceim na bhFainni, please contact the Irish Language Officer, Kildare County Council, at OGILO@kildarecoco.ie or by phone at 045 980941.
With the much sought after new generators for Leitrim not set to be in place until next March at the earliest, community groups in Ballinmore are coming together to buy their own generator so they won't be left in the dark this Winter.

At a meeting in Ballinamore, it was also revealed that Leitrim County council will hire generators in the event of a storm.

Cllr Gary Prior asked if the council had "made moves on identifying hubs around the county and reaching out to get those hubs wired up before Christmas. We are hoping that some of them will be operational before Christmas. I'm asking if we could get an agreement from the council to hire generators in the event of a storm. Generators won't be onsite before March next year so could the council look into how much it will cost to hire a generator? We'd only need maybe three; if we are in a position where the hubs are wired."

He said that he was aware that three groups are going to come together to buy a generator. "We have a group willing to put the funds together to buy a generator and set up a secondary hub in a matter of weeks. They feel they just can't wait any longer for the department or the council to get these in place so they are taking it upon themselves."

He asked: "Would Leitrim County Council lease a generator in the event of a storm?"

He said he understood the machine will cost in the region of 10,000.

David Minton, director of services, confirmed that the council will hire generators in the event of a storm. "Our storm preparation includes sourcing the provision of water pumps; we secured two water pumps at Leitrim Village to meet the risk of river levels increasing there and flooding."

Referring to the leasing of generators, he said after Storm Eowyn, "the whole country was looking for generators so it's about securing them. We have looked into prices for them. We will hire generators in the situation of a storm."

Funding for those with disabilities

Cllr Ita Reynolds Flynn asked Leitrim County council if there was any funding available to elderly residents to pay for generators in their homes "as we move into storm season."

Cllr Reynolds-Flynn, who is chairperson of Leitrim Association of People with Disabilities (LAPWD), said that it had been raised at a meeting. "If there was a grant or some funding for those with disabilities. One person had an electric wheelchair and once the power went out, he was in a bad way. They wanted to buy a generator for him but he thought it would be better to find funding for it."

The official response said that the council have made no provision within the recently approved budget to fund the provision of generators on the properties occupied by our elderly council tenants and that significant electrical works would also be required.

READ MORE: Leitrim residents would be 'very annoyed if road was put back in dangerous state it had been in'

Cllr Reynolds-Flynn said there were also a lot of inquiries about proposed packages that would contain items such as a hot water bottle, a gas stove etc. costing around 85 to 100. "We were hoping to fund that through the Healthy Ireland plan. Maybe if we got 25 of them for the LAPWD. I don't know through what stream of funding we could go."

Mr Minton responded: "I'm not aware of any funding out there for the direct provision of domestic generators for any type of heating unit."

He continued that LEADER programme's community-based response could be utilised.
Roads in Sligo and Leitrim are to be upgraded through a new road network improvement plan, it was revealed this week, with funding now been secured and plans being finalised to advance the construction of the Carrick-on-Shannon bypass.

Sligo/Leitrim Minister Frank Feighan said: Families, commuters and businesses in Leitrim and Sligo will feel the benefits from this programme through safer roads, faster journey times and stronger communities."

He continued: "In Leitrim projects such as the Carrick-on-Shannon By-Pass, further investment in the N4, Mullingar to Longford will develop our road network, reduce traffic hold ups and reduce driving times from our capital city to the Northwest while also improving safety as we work towards halving road deaths and serious injuries by 2030.

Meanwhile in Sligo projects like N17, Collooney to Knock, the Eastern Garavogue Bridge and Approach Roads, the N15 advancement and of course the N4 improvements previously mentioned will improve Sligos competitiveness and accessibility."

READ MORE: Nearly all public lighting in Ballinamore MD is LED but there are 'large number of faults'

He concluded: "All of these projects are ones that I have pursued and campaigned for as a TD. Three years ago, I had to intervene to insure funding continued for the N17 and to keep it on track, I am thrilled to see the required funded in place to secure all of these important projects and ensure our region has the capacity to grow and prosper beyond 2030. The annual indicated allocations for road networks increases steadily over the next four years, from 1.6bn in 2026 and 27, rising to 2.7bn by 2030."

He added: The Tanaiste, Simon Harris described this plan presents a once in a generation opportunity to transform Irelands infrastructure and secure the countrys future. Fine Gael pushed hard for a faster, more accountable system focused on delivery. This plan shows what can be achieved when ambition is matched with action.
You have permission to edit this article.

Edit Close
JEP Manager Aleyou Musa Keita addressing the press in the conference room of JEP in Ganta
Army soldiers fast-rope from transport helicopters

China Military Online) 14:40, November 28, 2025

Soldiers assigned to a brigade under the Chinese PLA Army fast-rope from transport helicopters during a live-fire training exercise on November 2, 2025. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Zhang Mao)

An armored vehicle attached to a brigade under the Chinese PLA Army spits fire at night during a live-fire training exercise on November 2, 2025. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Zhang Mao)

An armored vehicle attached to a brigade under the Chinese PLA Army fires smoke bombs during a live-fire training exercise on November 2, 2025. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Zhang Mao)

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
AN INVESTIGATION has been launched into the latest pollution incident in a County Limerick river.

Limerick Live was contacted this Friday with a report that discharge from the water treatment plant in Kilmallock was entering the River Loobagh.

READ NEXT: Concerns over road safety in Limerick village as calls grow for more footpaths

When contacted for comment, a spokesperson for Uisce Eireann said they are investigating a discharge at Kilmallock Water Treatment Plant.

The relevant bodies have been notified and Uisce Eireann is co-operating fully with Inland Fisheries Ireland and the Environmental Protection Agency.

"Further details will be shared once they become available, said Uisce Eireann spokesperson.

It is not known if there has been a fish kill.

Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) confirmed to Limerick Live that their staff responded to reports of pollution on the River Loobagh and visited the site this Friday.

"The State environmental agencys investigation is ongoing.

"IFI urge people to report water pollution, fish kills or issues of concern in their local rivers or lakes to its confidential 24/7 number, 0818 34 74 24, said an IFI spokesperson.

The River Loobagh has been subject to a number of pollution incidents in recent years.

In 2014, up to 1,000 salmon and trout in the river were killed following a slurry spill. Seven months later there was another slurry spill.

In 2020, a fisherman vowed to block a pipe discharging raw sewage into the river unless the problem wasnt sorted. He witnessed human excrement flowing out and toilet paper and female sanitary products caught in weeds. It was linked to a storm overflow from the public sewer. Whenever there is a blockage in the sewer it overflowed into the river.

A large quantity of green diesel entered the Loobagh in 2021 after thieves stole fuel from a farmers tank and left the valve open after they had left the scene.

The pollution incidents are in stark contrast to the extensive work that Kilmallock and Kilfinane Anglers Association have carried out to enhance the Loobagh for salmon and trout.
Concerns have been raised about the record number of children who will be in emergency accommodation this Christmas as the latest homelessness figures show new record highs have been reached.

The number of people using emergency accommodation rose to 16,755 in October, an increase from 16,614 the previous month.

Figures published on Friday show 11,492 adults accessed emergency accommodation in October, with the number of children recorded as homeless rising from 5,238 to 5,274 between September and October.

The number of children experiencing homelessness surpassed 5,000 in July and has increased each month since  increasing by 13.5% since the general election.

The number of people accessing emergency accommodation has been increasing steadily for years and the monthly figures published by the Department of Housing are a fraction of the total, as they do not include people sleeping rough, or those staying in hospitals, asylum centres or domestic violence shelters.

Reacting to the latest figures, the Dublin Simon Community said that the homelessness crisis continues to deepen.

The chief executive of Dublin Simon Community, Catherine Kenny, said that more people than ever before are facing the festive season without a place to call home.

We are finishing the year almost exactly as we began with homelessness rising, with emergency accommodation stretched to its limits and with people forced to sleep in the cold, she said.

2025 has been another year of missed opportunities. The government has set out ambitions for social and affordable housing, and Budget 2026 brought welcome funding for homelessness.

But unless these commitments are delivered quickly, at scale and in a joined-up way  across housing, health, mental health, addiction and community supports  the overall numbers will not fall.

Focus Ireland chief executive Pat Dennigan said: It is heartbreaking that a record number of 5,274 children will be homeless this Christmas. For many it will be their second or even third year opening their presents in emergency accommodation.

Children who are homeless are having their childhoods stolen one day at a time. This is wrong and we can, and must, end this human crisis.

He said the governments new housing plan  Delivering Homes, Building Communities  needed specific deadlines to track progress and that removing annual targets reduces transparency.

Urgency, robust targets, and timely delivery are crucial to ensure families and individuals experiencing homelessness have secure housing.

Sinn Fein TD Eoin O Broin said the new figures represented the highest level of adult and child homelessness in modern history.

He said it came in a week where the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) showed an increase in eviction notices, largely due to landlords selling their properties, which he said would ensure that homelessness would continue to increase.

He called on the Housing Minister James Browne to introduce a six-month emergency ban on evictions.

Unless James Browne, (Taoiseach) Micheal Martin and (Tanaiste) Simon Harris want to see the highest levels of homelessness come Christmas Day, they need to move quickly to introduce an emergency ban on evictions.

Labour TD Conor Sheehan said that he was really annoyed at yet another increase in homeless figures.

16,766 people are now homeless in Ireland. Up 152. At least 5,274 children will be spending Christmas in emergency accommodation. 7.2k single adults stuck in emergency accommodation. No plan to address this in housing plan. We need a moratorium on evictions.  Conor Sheehan TD (@ConorSheehan93) November 28, 2025

He said since taking office, the Government has shrank apartment sizes, introduced tax cuts for property developers and ripped up rent pressure zones.

He said that he expected the Department of Housings official figures to reach 20,000 next year and said the increase in notices to quit issued now would put an absolute rocket under the homeless figures this time next year.

He said he was also very concerned by attempts by some ministers to conflate the increase in homelessness with rising migration into Ireland and argued that homelessness has been growing for the past decade.

He said he expected the next state redress scheme to be for children who were in long-term homelessness.

You have children, for example, their physical development is being stunted in many cases because theyre literally being reared in a hotel room which is probably the size of two car parking spaces, so they cant even move about freely.

Social Democrat TD Rory Hearne said that a year ago, on the day of the general election, there were 14,996 people in emergency accommodation.

He said since then, there has been a 13.5% increase in the number of children in homelessness.

The legacy of this Government is that more people are now without a home than when it first took office.

A short time before election day, Micheal Martin told Virgin Media News that he hoped the numbers of people in homelessness would come down over the next 12 months. His government has ensured that the exact opposite has happened.

He added: No child should grow up without a home, and this should not be a radical statement. Yet, this Christmas, more children than ever will find themselves in emergency accommodation.
Dolans Presents has announced its biggest Live at the Castle programme to date, confirming a powerful 2026 lineup at the historic King Johns Castle, Limerick.

Running across May and June, the series features international icons, Irish favourites, and a high-energy K-pop spectacular  making this the most diverse and dynamic Castle season yet.

The concerts begin on Saturday, May 2nd, when synth-pop legends The Human League take the stage with special guests Cry Before Dawn, delivering an evening full of timeless hits and nostalgic flair.

The following night, Sunday, May 3rd, sees beloved hometown heroes Hermitage Green celebrate their 15-year anniversary alongside special guest Jamie McIntyre.

Bank Holiday Monday, May 4th, brings the spectacular K-Pop Superslayers, a large-scale production inspired by K-Pop Demon Hunters. After a lightning-fast sell-out, a new additional show has been added for Sunday, June 7th, highlighting massive demand for the production.

The final weekend of May turns the Castle into a hub of Irish music, starting with The Coronas on Friday, May 29th, followed by The Stunning on Saturday, May 30th, joined by very special guests Something Happens.

June opens with one of the most influential alternative rock bands of all time: Pixies. Celebrating 40 years, they will perform on May 31st and June 1st  and both shows are sold out, reflecting extraordinary demand for the bands landmark anniversary performances.

on Saturday, June 6th, acclaimed Irish band Bell X1 return to the Castle stage, promising a powerful night of musicianship and fan-favourite hits.

With eight major shows spanning rock, pop, nostalgia, indie, and international spectacle, the 2026 Live at the Castle lineup is set to be one of the most unforgettable yet. Fans are encouraged to secure remaining tickets early, as several events are already sold out or close to capacity.

All Ticket info from Dolans.ie and Ticketmaster.ie

*Sponsored Content
Apple on Friday announced it will open its fifth retail outlet in India on 11 December in Noidas DLF Mall of India  marking its second store in the National Capital Region after Delhi, which opened in April 2023.

The move aligns with Apple chief Tim Cooks earlier remarks about adding four more stores in India beyond Mumbai and Delhi. This will be Apples third store opening in 2025, following launches in Bengaluru on 2 September and Pune on 4 September. Apple opened its first two company-owned stores in Mumbai and Delhi in April 2023.

India on the rise Apples fifth store comes as India has continued to be on the rise for Apple. As a retail market, Apple is expected to sell 15.5 million iPhones in the country this calendar year, bringing its market share by volume above 10% for the first time ever. On 11 November, market tracker IDC reported that Apple hit its highest-ever rank in India to become the countrys fourth-highest smartphone seller by volume, with a 25% year-on-year rise in sales to nearly 5 million units in the September quarter alone.

Also Read | How Apple is reinventing the iPhone with new materials and record R&D spending

Cook has repeatedly called out India as a standout market for Apple, which has recorded record quarterly revenues in India for 15 straight quarters now.

On 30 January, during the companys post-earnings analyst call for the last fiscals December quarter, Cook had said, I'm particularly keen on India. India set a December quarter record during the quarter. And we're opening more stores there. We've announced that we're going to open four new stores there."

"The iPhone was the top-selling model in India for the quarter. And it's the second largest smartphone market in the world and the third largest for PCs and tablets, and so there's a huge market. And we have a very modest share in these markets, and so I think there's lots of upside there, he added.

A sixth store, already in plans at Apple, is unlikely to be opened this calendar year itself, a person aware of developments said.

There is a sixth store already in plans, but the official opening of it will only take place beyond the calendar year, the person added. However, he did not confirm if the same would be opened by the ongoing fiscal yearonly adding that the opening date for Apples sixth outlet is well beyond the current calendar year.

Also Read | Apple hits all-time revenue record in India as iPhone 17 demand surges

At Apple Noida, customers can explore Apples latest product lineup including the iPhone 17 family and the M5-powered iPad Pro and MacBook Pro 14", experience new features, and receive expert support from Specialists, Creatives, Geniuses, and dedicated Business teams. They can also attend Today at Apple sessionsfree, daily experiences designed to inspire learning and creativity in photography, art, music, and coding, led by Apple Creatives, a statement by Apple on Friday said.

Manufacturing scale-up Beyond retail, Apple has expanded India operations significantly through 2025. In May, the company widened its domestic assembly lines in response to US President Donald Trumps tariff pressures on China.

While Trump later put pressure on Cook to shift manufacturing operations to the US and not India, companies such as Tata Electronics and Bharat FIH Limited have increased their iPhone assembly lines to export nearly 60 million smartphones from the country.

Also Read | Apple and Samsung gain ground in Indias slowing smartphone market
Billionaire Gautam Adani-led conglomerate, Adani Group, is planning to invest up to $5 billion in Google's artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure in the data centres, which are set to be built in the southern region of the country, reported the news agency Bloomberg, citing Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jugeshinder Singh on Friday, 28 November 2025.

According to the agency report, Adani Group's move to invest in Google's AI data centres shows a steady stream of investments pouring into the growing data centre business in the country.

Is Adani's investment finalised? Adani Group CFO Jugeshinder Singh told reports on Friday that the details of the investment are still being finalised.

This move comes soon after Adani Enterprise and Google's parent company, Alphabet, through AdaniConneX Pvt. Ltd announced their plans to develop India's largest AI data centre campus at Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.

According to the agency report, Indias overall data centre market is expected to cross $100 billion by the end of 2027, as per CBRE Group estimates.

Google-Adani data centre deal On 14 October 2025, the US-based search engine giant, Google, partnered with Adani Enterprises to build a $15 billion AI hub in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.

Mint reported earlier that Google's upcoming data centre in Visakhapatnam is set to be the largest one outside the United States. The 1 GW data centre campus is set to have an AI infrastructure, new large-scale energy sources, and an expanded fibre-optic network.

This initiative creates substantial economic and societal opportunities for both India and the United States  while pioneering a generational shift in AI capability, according to the company's announcement.

According to our previous report, Google's plan is to invest $15 billion over the next five years, from 2026 to 2030, as the project aligns with the central government's vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

The data centre hub is expected to deliver the high-performance and low-latency services that businesses and organisations need to build and scale their own AI-powered solutions, accelerate R&D, and help India's growth story.

Adani's move also comes at a time when Digital Connexion, a joint venture of Reliance Industries, Brookfield and Digital Realty, has announced its plans to invest $11 billion in the data centres at Visakhapatnam.
(Bloomberg) -- Airbus SE cautioned that a large part of its active A320 jetliner family fleet will require a software fix after a recent incident involving a Jetblue Airways Corp. airliner revealed that intense solar radiation could risk corrupting data thats critical to maintaining functioning flight controls.

The company said a significant number of its A320 fleet, encompassing about 6,000 jets in total, may be impacted by the required fix, according to a statement sent by the European planemaker on Friday.

Airbus acknowledges these recommendations will lead to operational disruptions to passengers and customers, the company said.

The advisory follows an incident on Oct. 30 involving a Jetblue aircraft that was flying from Cancun to Newark, New Jersey, that suffered a computer glitch that resulted in a sudden, unexpected downward pitch without pilot input. Nobody was injured in the incident, and the jet diverted to Tampa, Florida.

The finding risks becoming a significant headache for Airbus, given the A320 family is the companys by far most widely flown aircraft. According to people familiar with the situation, most of the jets can receive an uncomplicated update from the cockpit with minimal downtime. But about 1,000 older jets will need an actual hardware upgrade that can take much longer, said the people, asking not to be identified discussing non-public findings.

Airbus declined to comment on the details and the duration of the fix.

The A320 is the competing aircraft to Boeing Co. 737 model, and the two jetliner families are the workhorses of the civil aviation industry. Airbus has already had to contend with engine issues on its newer A320neo jets, involving those built by Pratt & Whitney, that have forced hundreds of jets to be taken out of service temporarily for maintenance.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com
India's biggest carmakers including Tata Motors and Hyundai want the government to scrap a weight-based emission concession for small cars under planned new efficiency rules, a move they say would benefit just one company, letters seen by Reuters show.

Tata, Mahindra & Mahindra, JSW MG Motor and Hyundai are concerned that a weight-based relief risks hurting India's EV goals while helping a single player, according to individual letters they wrote to the government.

They did not name the player but industry data shows and three auto executives told Reuters that Maruti Suzuki would be the main beneficiary.

Also Read | Fuel Efficient Scooters Over 50 kmpl: Insurance Tips

Maruti, the biggest seller of small cars in India, told Reuters that global car markets like Europe, the U.S., China, Korea and Japan all had some provisions in their emission regulations to protect the "very small cars".

'Limited potential for efficiency improvements' Under India's current Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency norms, the quantity of permissible carbon dioxide emissions applies to all passenger cars weighing less than 3,500 kg (7,716 lb).

The new rules propose tightening average CO2 emissions to 91.7 grams/km from an earlier target of 113 grams/km. This will make it tougher for small cars to meet the target compared with large SUVs, pushing companies to sell more EVs.

In its latest draft, India has proposed leniency for petrol cars weighing 909 kg or less, measuring under four meters in length and with engine capacity of 1200 cc or below as they offer "limited potential for efficiency improvements".

This has created a sharp split between India's leading EV-focused companies and Maruti - for whom 16% of sales come from cars weighing under 909 kg - causing delays in finalising the regulation that is crucial for automakers to plan future product portfolios and investments in powertrain technology.

Also Read | States race to woo EV makers with land sops and tax breaks as Centre eases off

Three company executives told Reuters the 909 kg threshold was arbitrary and did not align with any global standards, alleging that the move only benefitted Maruti Suzuki.

In a letter to India's power ministry, which is drafting the rules, Mahindra requested omission of a "special category" or definitions based on size or weight.

"(This) can have adverse effects in terms of the nation's progress towards safer, cleaner cars, and can alter the level playing field for industry players," it said.

Risks to industry stability and customers Hyundai told the industries ministry in its letter that the exemption may be perceived internationally as a step backward, at a time when global markets are converging toward stricter fuel-efficiency and zero-emission standards.

"Abrupt policy changes favouring a specific segment risk undermining industry stability and customer interests, as future investments and technology rollouts are planned on the basis of established norms," Hyundai said in a statement to Reuters.

JSW MG Motor said that over 95% of cars under 909 kg come from a single carmaker, without naming anyone.

"A relaxation restricted to this weight band would disproportionately benefit one manufacturer," it said in its letter to the road transport ministry dated November 21.

Tata, Mahindra and JSW MG Motor did not respond to a request for comment. India's power, transport and industries ministries also did not respond to requests.

Maruti told Reuters that small cars consume much less fuel and emit less carbon dioxide than bigger cars, so having this "safeguard" will help both CO2 reduction and fuel saving.
(Bloomberg) -- Nexperia warned that customers across industries are facing impending production halts, while calling on its Chinese unit to take concrete steps to re-establish dialog.

The Dutch chipmaker, which has lost the cooperation of its Chinese subsidiary since the Netherlands government took action to gain influence over decision making, said it welcomed efforts by Chinese authorities to facilitate the resumption of exports but its customers were still reporting imminent production stoppages.

This situation cannot persist, Nexperia wrote in an open letter to Nexperias entities in China on Thursday. The company designs and makes essential semiconductors for the automotive and consumer electronics sectors. Carmakers from Asia to Europe have raised alarm about disruption of its output.

The Dutch government last week suspended an order that gave it powers to block or revise decisions at Nijmegen-based Nexperia. Dutch Economic Affairs Minister Vincent Karremans had called it a show of goodwill, noting that discussions with Chinese authorities were continuing.

Nexperia said in its letter that it had made repeated attempts to directly communicate with its subsidiary through calls, emails, proposed meetings and even formal correspondence to demand performance of rights, but did not receive any meaningful response.

The Dutch company also pushed its Chinese unit to engage in talks either through email or a neutral, professional third-party mediator to restore predictable supply flows.

Wingtech Technology Co., the chipmakers Chinese owner, did not immediately respond to an email requesting comment. It has asked for the restoration of its full control and shareholder rights over Nexperia in the Netherlands.

Earlier on Thursday, the Chinese government urged the Netherlands to take concrete actions to resolve concerns around Nexperia and to bring back stability to the global supply chain.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com
Rio Tinto last year bet big on lithium. Its new chief executive officer will next week set out whether the commodity has a prominent future at the worlds second-largest mining company.

Simon Trott, who took charge of Rio Tinto in August, has promised changes that analysts speculate could include asset sales, cost cuts and slower developments. On Thursday, he will lay out a detailed vision for the company for the first time at an investor gathering in London.

The changes we are making are not incrementalthey are fundamental," Trott told employees last month in a memo seen by The Wall Street Journal.

Under former CEO Jakob Stausholm, Rio Tinto agreed to a $6.7 billion takeover of Arcadium Lithium a year earlier. That deal was completed in March. Rio Tinto also pushed hard to advance a lithium project in Serbia that would have been among the biggest in Europe.

Rio Tintos interest in lithium, used to make batteries, was in contrast to other major miners that couldnt envisage the commodity generating significant profits like the kind they can make producing industrial metal copper or steel ingredient iron ore.

Signaling a shift in priorities, Trott has already mothballed the Serbian project. Paul Graves, the head of Rio Tintos lithium business and formerly CEO of Arcadium Lithium, is also leaving the company as Trott assembles a core group of leaders.

Investors dont expect Trott to back out of lithium entirely. Instead, they think he will refine the companys pipeline of lithium projects, with developments happening more slowly than originally planned.

As western demand for lithium increases, Rio should be best placed to fulfill this demand as supplier of choice, versus the rest of the industry which are small scale players or balance-sheet constrained," said Stephen Butel, a portfolio manager at Platypus Asset Management.

Lithium has to compete for capital with Rio Tintos other big businesses, notably iron ore. The company owns large Australian iron ore mines and is developing a vast new pit in Africa with Chinese partners.

The company also has a massive copper project planned in the U.S. that, if approved, would likely take precedence over lithium, said RBC Capital Markets analyst Ben Davis in a note.

Over the past five years, the miner has made roughly $15 billion of acquisitions, Goldman Sachs analyst Paul Young said in a note. Yet, since 2018, it has sold assets valued at less than 1 billion Australian dollars, equivalent to $653.3 million.

As a result, the company now has up to 20 projects in development and is operating and exploring in over 30 countries across more than 10 commodities, said Young.

Trott could cut costs and reduce debt by selling some assets and focusing on its largest and most-profitable operations, he said.

Already, Trott has begun a strategic review of Rio Tintos borates operations in California, and an iron and titanium business in northern Quebec.

I think if you try and do everything, you get nothing done," he said at a Goldman Sachs conference last month.

Goldmans Young thinks Rio Tintos Canadian iron-ore business, Pacific Aluminium operations and recently acquired stake in North American recycler Matalco, among others, could be sold. That list also includes several lithium plants and the shelved Serbian project, called Jadar.

One key unknown is whether Trott will be in a position to address an issue that has long irked shareholders: the nearly 15% stake in Rio Tintos London-listed stock owned by Aluminum Corp. of China, known as Chinalco. That holding has stopped the miner from buying back shares due to an Australian government-imposed cap on the state-owned Chinese companys interest.

A solution could be an asset-for-equity swap, which wasnt ruled out by Rio Tinto at its first-half results in July, said Young.

I think they see it as a problem," Ninety One portfolio manager George Cheveley said of the Chinalco stake. But he doesnt think Trott will necessarily plot a path to fixing it. I think theyll just solve it at some point."

Write to Rhiannon Hoyle at rhiannon.hoyle@wsj.com and Adam Whittaker at adam.whittaker@wsj.com
VentureSoul Partners has announced the close of its maiden debt fund at 300 crore, with plans to raise an additional 300 crore through a green shoe option by February 2026.

The firm, which focuses on structured credit solutions for new-economy companies, counts healthcare major Micro Labs Ltd as its anchor investor. It has also received commitments from corporate investors Rupa Group, Glen Appliances Ltd, along with individuals, including E. Madhusudan, founder of Kreditbee, Omkar Shirhatti of Perfios, and promoters of Canpac and Zebronics Group.

Also Read | Debt players eye early-stage markets beyond India to improve returns

The firm had announced its first close in September 2024 when it raised 146 crore from a clutch of investors. A firm can start making investments after the first close and can call capital from the committed pool.

Since then, Venture Soul's Sebi-registered Category II alternative investment fund (AIF) has backed around 15 startups, including Playshifu, Zolostays, Metro Telworks, Metalbook, Captain Fresh, Mozark, and True Credits, among others.

It aims to write average cheques of around 20-25 crore and is a sector-agnostic fund with a focus on diversified fintech, business-to-customer, business-to-business, and software-as-a-service (SaaS) companies.

VentureSoul Partners was founded in June 2024 by three former HSBC bankers: Anurag Tripathi, Ashish Gala, and Kunal Wadhwa. Having successfully built businesses from the ground up for various domestic and international organizations, the partners launched VentureSoul with the aim of creating a value-based enterprise.

Expanding market The venture debt market in India has been growing at a steady pace, expanding 13x over the last six years. In 2024 alone, startups raised almost $1.23 billion from venture debt firms, highlighting the growing need for specialized credit solutions for the early-stage companies that often find no lenders, Mint reported in December 2024.

VentureSoul competes with Anicut, Alteria Capital, InnoVen Capital, Strides Ventures, Blacksoil, and Trifecta Capital, among others. VentureSoul, however, does structured credit. Newer players such as Nuvama and Kotak are also looking to write smaller cheques for growth-stage companies.

Also Read | Indias venture capital firms are finding that leaner might be better
New Delhi: India and Canada will resume formal discussions on a comprehensive economic partnership agreement (CEPA) next week, commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal said on Friday, signalling that the trade track between the two countries is moving forward after a long pause.

India is widening its engagement with several major economies as part of its broader strategy to deepen trade ties and support the governments push for self-reliance, Goyal said while speaking at an event organised by industrys lobby body Ficci.

The move signals a diplomatic and commercial reset between the two countries after a period of strained relations, with both sides targeting a sharp increase in bilateral trade by 2030.

While talks had stalled after bilateral relations deteriorated sharply in 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney agreed on 18 June during the G7 Summit in Kananaskis to revive negotiations.

Since then, senior Canadian ministers, including foreign affairs minister Anita Anand (1214 October) and trade minister Maninder Sidhu (1214 November), have visited India to rebuild trust and momentum.

In their most recent interaction, Modi and Carney met for the second time on 23 November on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Johannesburg and agreed to unlock the potential for deeper cooperation in defence and space sectors, besides advancing ties in areas such as trade, investment, technology and energy.

Stressing the Prime Ministers call to place Atmanirbhar Bharat at the centre of Indias economic planning, Goyal said that this vision has now become a collective national mission.

He said India has already concluded what he described as balanced and equitable trade agreements with Australia, the UAE, Mauritius, the UK and the four-nation EFTA bloc.

Negotiations are underway with countries that together account for nearly 50 markets worldwide, including Oman, New Zealand, Bahrain, Qatar and the wider GCC grouping.

India is simultaneously pursuing a second-stage agreement with Australia and reviewing its FTAs with ASEAN and South Korea to correct what he called existing imbalances.

India is also in active discussions with the United States and the 27-nation European Union, has recently started talks with the Eurasian region, and finalised the terms of reference with Israel last week to begin negotiations soon.

The IndiaCanada CEPA track is also being revived. Canada and India are looking at CEPA, and next week we will kickstart conversations around that, Goyal said, signalling a reopening of formal dialogue.

Also Read | Mint Quick Edit | A change of PM made Canada and India embrace again

Untapped opportunities A comprehensive trade agreement between India and Canada will beneficially open untapped economic opportunities for both countries, said Agneshwar Sen, trade policy leader, EY India.

"Canada accounts for less than 1% of Indias total exports, and India is just the 14th largest trading partner for Canada, this is despite Indias vast manufacturing base and Canada's need for diversified suppliers, said Sen.

Sectors like textiles, leather footwear, and gems & jewellery, where India has global competitiveness, stand to gain significantly. For instance, Canada imports over $3 billion worth of footwear and leather goods annually, but India's share is under 2%.

India's gems and jewellery exports exceeded $35 billion last year, while its exports to Canada were less than $300 million.

Given the political reset in bilateral relations, it may be useful to have an early harvest deal focusing on sectors where complementarities are strong and sensitivities are low like textiles, gems and jewellery, agri-products, and clean energy, said Sen. This will offer quick relief to the sectors in both countries looking for alternative markets. By targeting visible, mutual gains, such a deal can build trust, unlock MSME opportunities, and lay the groundwork for a sustainable economic partnership.

Indias trade with Canada remains slightly in deficit, with exports at $4.22 billion and imports at $4.44 billion in FY25. Exports grew from $3.84 billion in FY24, while imports fell from $4.55 billion.

India imports critical minerals, nuclear and clean-energy equipment, aerospace parts, and agricultural products, including lentils. Its exports to Canada include textiles, auto components, pharmaceuticals, IT services and food-processing goods, including dairy.

Bilateral relations had sharply deteriorated in 2023 after the then Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused Indian agents of involvement in the killing of a Khalistani separatist.

India rejected the allegations, expelled Canadian diplomats, and Ottawa responded in kind. Trade talks paused, visa services were briefly suspended, and diplomatic engagement froze. However, trade between the two countries continued despite the diplomatic strain.

Also Read | Canada has questions on Indias electronics subsidy
India is working with the US, European Union, the UK, Singapore, Switzerland, and ASEAN bloc countries to mutually accept each others inspection, testing and quality certification systems for farm produce in an attempt to ensure low-friction movement in such trade, two senior government officials told Mint .

The alignment of these systems under so-called Mutual Recognition Agreements, or MRAs, is expected to ensure agricultural goods enter foreign markets more smoothly and the high rate of rejections of Indian consignments over sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) checks reduce. Such checks are put in place by the importing country to prevent pests and disease entering its agriculture and farm sectors.

In September 2025, India and Australia had signed an MRA on organic products, accepting each others certification for a wide range of organic products.

India hopes the MRAs will speed up exports of basmati rice, spices, tea, coffee, marine products, and fruits and vegetables. "The need for MRAs is underscored by frequent clearance delays and rejections," said the first among the two officials cited above asking not to be identified. Shorter lead times and lower costs would also make Indian products more price-competitive in global markets, the official added. The second official, too, requested anonymity.

Exporters regularly report hold-ups because destination markets do not recognize Indian testing systems. India recorded over 1,000 food-export refusals in the United States in 2023, mainly over pesticide residues, hygiene issues and certification gaps, as per the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA). More recent data is not immediately available.

Shipments to the European Union, too, have faced repeated delays or rejections through 2024 and 2025 due to residue violations, microbial contamination, packaging problems and missing documents, according to the Europe India Journal published in the EU.

Queries sent to the ministries of food processing industries on 25 November and commerce and industry on 26 November remained unanswered until publishing.

Wide impact

The MRAs under discussion could cover nearly half of Indias agricultural exports, as the targeted product categories account for 45-50% of the export basket, according to the government officials cited earlier.

In April-September 2025, farm exports rose by 8.8%, reaching $25.9 billion, compared to $23.8 billion in the year-ago period, government trade data showed. In FY25, Indias agricultural exports stood at $36.97 billion, higher than $33.24 billion in FY24.

MRAs are effective trade arrangements to minimize non-tariff barriers faced by Indian products abroad, an expert said. "With India able to secure just a few MRAs [so far], it shows the need for making signing of important MRAs in a short timeframe conditional to signing of FTAs (free trade agreements) with large countries," said Ajay Srivastava, founder, Global Trade Research Initiative, a New Delhi-based research group.

Also Read | Muted markets, export hit keep India at third spot in Oct

At present, India has FTAs with 15 trade partners, including Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland (all four European Free Trade Association states); Australia; UAE; and the UK and is in an advanced stage of finalizing FTAs with the EU. The discussions are also progressing positively with the US, Indias largest trading partner, as well as with Peru, Chile, New Zealand, and Oman, among other countries.

Apart from Australian, India currently has no full-fledged MRAs with its major trade partners. Its partial arrangements are narrow organic-product equivalence understandings with the EU, Switzerland and Australia, which do not extend to mainstream agricultural goods. For non-organic products, India has no SPS MRAs with the US, UK, EU, Gulf countries, Australia or ASEAN, meaning most agri-exports still undergo full testing and certification at the destination.

Indias other MRAs  with Singapore on telecom equipment and Japan on pharmaceuticals  do not cover agricultural or food products. The development assumes significance as farm exports from the country are on the upswing, and any positive prospect will further give a fillip to this sector.

Aligning testing and quality regulations will foster trust, another expert said. MRAs "are not just technical instruments, they are a way to ensure our domestic systems are trusted abroad. Without that trust, exporters will continue to face avoidable friction," said Dr Amit Singh, associate professor, Special Centre for National Security Studies at the Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi.

Also Read | What US tariff exemptions mean for Indias farm exporters

Leg-up for small exporters

The move will be particularly helpful for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) that struggle with high compliance expenses and other regulatory blocks, an exporter said. "If an MRA is materialized, especially with EU nations, exporters can save money on overseas testing, certification and documentation," said a spice exporter requesting anonymity.

Every rejection at a foreign port is a loss that MSMEs can barely absorb. Aligning our systems with global standards is not just a trade issue, its a survival issue for small exporters," said Vinod Kumar, President, SME Forum.

India has the chance to become a trusted source in the global processed food market with a push in infrastructure and compliance support, a food industry executive said. "The biggest concern in processed food exports is standardization. Achieving consistency in quality, taste, shelf-life and safety across suppliers at scale remains a major hurdle," said Sandipan Mitra, CEO & co-founder, HungerBox, a Bengaluru foodtech company.

While MRAs can give a big fillip to fruits and vegetables, where India is already among the top few global producers, the minutiae must also be paid attention to, said a sectoral representative. "The recipient countries must honour the MRA in letter and spirit," said Ekram Husain, vice president of Vafa Fresh Vegetable and Fruits Exporters Association (Maharashtra). In case of any extra molecule testing beyond the agreed list, the government must take up the case with importing countries on behalf of exporters."
India-US trade deal: India's Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agarwal, on Friday, 28 November 2025, said that India is expected to sign the first tranche of the bilateral trade agreement (BTA) with the United States within the current calendar year, reported the news agency ANI.

In a FICCI Annual General Meeting on Friday, Rajesh Agarwal said that the talks between the two parties have progressed despite the recent shifts in global trade conditions, according to the agency report.

I think our expectations, we are very optimistic and very hopeful that we should find a solution within this calendar year, said Rajesh Agarwal, cited the news agency.

No final deadline? Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agarwal also said that the trade negotiations are unpredictable, and the final deadlines cannot be announced due to the issues which loom over the negotiators.

The trade negotiations are unpredictable, noting that with any trade negotiations, the final deadlines cannot be because even if there is one sticking point or one sticking issue which is in the mind of even one of the partners, the trade deal may not meet that deadline, the Commerce Secretary cautioned.

Even though India and the US were targeting to complete the first tranche of an India-US bilateral trade agreement by the fall of 2025 but the geopolitical landscape altered the deadlines.

We have found lot of changes in the global trade landscape. One of the key has been in the US landscape, where it came out with reciprocal tariffs, which were imposed on all the trading partners..., said Rajesh Agarwal, cited in the agency report.

According to the agency report, India and the US are engaged in two parallel negotiations, one with a broader Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) and the second with an immediate Framework Trade Deal amid the Trump tariffs.

Are we close on a trade deal? In the FICCI meeting, the Commerce Secretary also said that the framework discussions are at an advanced stage, where the negotiators are close to a trade deal.

We are close, we have tried to iron out most of the issues. Now it is only matter of time when this decision has to be taken, that when the two countries have to find the right landing zone to announce it, said Rajesh Agarwal, according to the agency report.

Commerce Secretary also said that, I think we need to find pathway for complete elimination of reciprocal tariff in our process of doing (full) BTA. So I think that will take a bit of time, and we'll not hurry up those we are working on various aspects of BTA.

Rajesh Agarwal said that India is in that zone where the trade deal can be achieved in a very short while. Both countries are continuing their negotiations despite the raging 50% imposed by US President Donald Trump.
CTET registration begins: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has opened the registration portal for the Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) February 2026 session. The application window will close on 18 December.

The test designed to assess overall teacher's skill and knowledge of their concerned subject, will be conducted in 136 cities across India in offline mode. The 150-minute-long exam will be conducted in OMR based mode.

To access the CTET notification PDF click here.

Documents needed to register for CTET Following list of documents will be needed while filling the form:

Valid Email ID

Mobile number

Photo ID proof - Aadhar/ PAN/ Passport/ Driving Licence

Scanned Photograph and signature

Educational certificates of Class 10 and 12, Graduation, D.El.Ed/ B.Ed

Debit or credit card/ net banking/ UPI

Category certificate and PwD certificate, if applicable How to apply for CTET February 2026 session Candidates need to follow the below mentioned steps to successfully apply for CTET February 2026 session:

Step 1: Visit the official website ctet.nic.in and click on apply for CTET Feb2026 link available on the home page.

Step 2: The user will be directed to a new page, displaying three options. Select New Registration.

Step 3: Read and download the information brochure carefully.

Step 4: Click on Proceed to get access to the CTET registration form.

Step 5: Provide the necessary details.

Step 6: Verify and click on the checkboxes given at the end of the page and click on submit.

Step 7: Keep a record of the system-generated CTET application number for future use.

Step 8: Complete the application process by uploading latest scanned photograph and signature

Step 9: Pay requisite examination fee by debit/credit card and net banking.

Step 10: Take a printout of the confirmation page for future reference.

What to do in case of erroneous information is added? The CTET notification states, The candidates particulars cannot be changed/ edited once the examination fee has been submitted. However the facility of corrections in the particulars (except city of examination) may be made available on the portal during the specified period which will be notified on the website of CTET.

The examination is scheduled for 8 February, and aspiring candidates must visit the official website at ctet.nic.in for more information.
Some Delhi schools are yet to kickstart nursery admission process and upload point criteria, as per the guidelines of Directorate of Education (DoE). Schools in Noida, Gurgaon and Faridabad have already commenced the admission process, it's time for Delhi schools to the upload point criteria, marking a formal begining of admission season.

Certain schools, such as Salwan Public School and Sachdeva Public School, have already uploaded the point criteria on their websites. It is expected that by 28 November evening, all schools across the national capital will provide the point criteria for entry level admission in the next academic session. As per the detailed admission schedule for the 2026-27 academic session, the registration forms will be available at specific websites of schools from 4 December.

Also Read | Delhi nursery school admission 2026 schedule OUT for entry level classes

Those parents seeking pre-school or nursery admission for their wards in private unaided recognised must take note of DoE's admission schedule mentioned below:

1. Schools will upload the admission criteria and their points in the module of the Department  28 November

2. Commencement of admission process and availability of forms  4 December

3. Last date to submit application forms in schools: 27 December

4. Schools will upload details of children who applied for admission under Open Seats  9 January, 2026

5. Uploading marks (as per points system) given to each of the children who applied for admission under open seats  16 January, 2026

6. Displaying of first list of selected children  23 January, 2026

7. Resolution of parents' queries regarding first list with respect to allotment of points to their wards  24 January, 2026.

8. Displaying of second admission list of selected children along with waiting list) (along with marks allotted under points system)  9 February, 2026

9. Resolution of parents' queries over allotment of points to their wards in the second list  10 February to 16 February, 2026.

10. Subsequent list of admission  5 March, 2026

11. Closure of admission process  19 March, 2026.

Also Read | School kidnappings have become a cruel fact of life in Nigeria

It is mandatory for schools to upload admission lists with marks allotted under points system.

The age relaxation for admission of upto one month may be granted at the level of head of school in the minimum & upper age limit for these classes. The parents may approach the Head of School/Principal for seeking age relaxation through a manua application. For admissions in Academic Session 2026-27 a child must have attained the prescribed minimum age as on 31st March 2026," the notification dated 22 November states.

To apply in schools of their choice, parents will have to pay a registration fee of 25. The minimum age for nursery admission is over three years as of 31st March, 2026. It is four years and above for lower kindergarten, over five years for upper kindergarten and over six years for Class I.
Hong Kong, November 28 (ANI): Disney has cancelled the Hong Kong premiere of 'Zootopia' after dozens of people were killed following the massive fire that swept through an extensive public housing complex in Hong Kong, marking one of the city's deadliest disasters in decades.

Taking to their Instagram handle, Disney informed that they have cancelled the screening of the film due to the "serious incident" that occured in Hong Kong. The screening was supposed to take place on Thursday.

"Due to a serious incident that occurred in Hong Kong, the scheduled appearance of Joey Yung at the 'Friendtastic!' parade, Disney's Zootopia 2 Selected Magic Access Members Special Screening at Hong Kong Disneyland, and the evening Gala Premiere at Hong Kong Disneyland on Nov. 27, 2025 (Thursday) have been canceled," park officials posted on their Instagram story as quoted by Deadline.

Disney has not announced the updated screening date yet. The park also cancelled its planned fireworks display.

"Due to an incident in Hong Kong and out of respect, tonight Momentous: Party in the Night Sky will be cancelled," the resort posted later on Instagram. "Thank you for your understanding."

At least 83 people have been killed and more than 100 injured so far after the massive fire swept through an extensive public housing complex in Hong Kong, marking one of the city's deadliest disasters in decades, CNN reported, citing local authorities and Hong Kong media.

According to CNN, the inferno, which broke out on Wednesday afternoon at the Wang Fuk Court estate in the Tai Po district, continued burning into Thursday, with firefighters warning that extreme heat and falling debris severely hindered rescue efforts.

More than 200 residents remain unaccounted for, CNN reported, citing Hong Kong's public broadcaster, RTHK.

The complex, home to over 4,000 residents, many of them elderly, was undergoing renovation and was fully wrapped in bamboo scaffolding and safety netting, a traditional construction method widely used across Hong Kong. Authorities are now investigating whether flammable materials used in the renovation, including polystyrene boards found blocking windows, may have accelerated the spread of the blaze, CNN reported.
In a momentous culmination to the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), legendary actor Rajinikanth was bestowed with a Lifetime Achievement Award honouring his five-decade long career in cinema.

Rajinikanth receives Lifetime Achievement Award at IFFI Goa The veteran superstar, who arrived in Panaji on the final day of the festival, was visibly moved as filmmakers, actors and global delegates gathered to celebrate his extraordinary contribution to Indian cinema.

The eight-day festival  which ran from November 20 to 28, 2025  featured over 240 films from 81 countries, including numerous world and international premieres, reasserting IFFI as a major hub for global cinematic exchange.

As the closing ceremony lit up the Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium in Panaji, all eyes were on Rajinikanth, marking a fitting end to the festivals diverse showcase.

Addressing the gathering, Rajinikanth reflected on what has been an illustrious career, saying, 50 years of acting in cinema felt like 10 or 15 years.. If there are 100 more janams (lives) are there, I would like to be born as an actor and Rajinikanth. He added, All this honour goes to Cinema Industry people and mainly Ennai Vaazhaveikum Dheivangalana Tamil Makkal (The Tamil people, the gods who keep me alive).

The 74-year-olds remarks resonated deeply with the audience. As he received a standing ovation, he greeted the crowd with folded hands  a humble acknowledgment of his decades-long relationship with the film world and his fans.

Also Read | Major Mohit Sharmas parents move Delhi HC to seek stay on Dhurandar

The closing ceremony also featured the presence of fellow actor Ranveer Singh, who was visibly awed by the moment. When asked to comment on Rajinikanths legacy, Ranveer admitted, I'm too small to be speaking words about this level of greatness, all I can say is I'm looking forward for Jailer 2. Hukum, Hukummm.

About 56th IFFI Goa The 56th IFFI was not only about tribute  it also celebrated the roots of Indian cinema by honouring the centenaries of several legendary filmmakers and artists, including Guru Dutt, Raj Khosla, Ritwik Ghatak, P. Bhanumathi, Bhupen Hazarika and Salil Chowdhury, with restored classics of their work screened to commemorate their legacies.
Washington DC [US], November 28 (ANI): Actor Simu Liu has expressed his outrage over the declining Asian representation in Hollywood, saying, "Put some Asians in literally anything right now," according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Liu stated, "The amount of backslide in our representation onscreen is... appalling. Think we're 'risky.'" He highlighted several recent films that centre on the Asian experience, including Minari, The Farewell, Past Lives, Everything Everywhere All at Once, Crazy Rich Asians, and Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (in which Liu starred), noting that each was a financial success.

Liu continued, "No Asian actor has ever lost a studio even close to USD 100 million, but a white dude will lose USD 200 million twice and roll right into the next tentpole lead." He added, "We're fighting a deeply prejudiced system, and most days it sucks."

Liu's comments follow a Threads post featuring remarks from Manny Jacinto, who recently starred alongside Lindsay Lohan in Freaky Friday. Jacinto had previously expressed frustration about being typecast in "dad roles" despite his desire to star in more rom-coms, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Liu also responded to claims made by producer Rachel Tan about her experience trying to cast Worth The Wait. "They gave me a list of white guys we could cast. If we could give one of the roles to them, we could get funded," Tan previously told a Singaporean newspaper.
If you have ever used a multi-monitor setup on Windows, then you know how frustrating it is to change the brightness, contrast and volume of different monitors. While the Windows team is only working on AI integration, the PowerToys team is actually cooking with some really cool features. With this new tool in Microsoft PowerToys, you can easily configure the external display right from your laptop screen.

PowerDisplay, the new utility teased by Niels Laute, a program manager on the PowerToys team, introduces a context menu accessible from the taskbar. This allows users to adjust brightness, contrast, volume, and other settings for each monitor independently, eliminating the need to navigate complex display menus or switch between screens. The feature addresses a longstanding limitation in Windows 11, where multi-monitor management remains cumbersome despite native improvements like dynamic refresh rates.

Microsoft PowerToys has established itself as an essential suite for enhancing Windows productivity, offering tools such as FancyZones for advanced window snapping and Awake for power management. PowerDisplay builds on this legacy, drawing from user feedback and early AI-generated prototypes now refined on GitHub. While third-party apps like DisplayBuddy provide similar controls, PowerDisplay integrates seamlessly within the PowerToys ecosystem.

Laute indicated on X that PowerDisplay is slated for release in the January 2026 PowerToys update, though development timelines may adjust as code reviews and bug fixes continue. The utility's code is already available for early testing, signalling rapid progress. This addition underscores PowerToys' role in prototyping features that often influence core Windows enhancements, as seen with snapping inspired by FancyZones.
CALI, ColombiaThey see themselves as the cowboys of the drug trade, highly experienced crews that ferry narcotics on small boats across the open seas, running on a mix of bravado, skill and dreams of a massive payday.

Now, designated as terrorists by the Trump administration, they face not only the perils of a capricious sea but the new danger of getting blown out of the water by the U.S. military. The trades unofficial mottodeliver or die"has never rung so true.

Three men who have manned these drug boats, known as go fasts," spoke to The Wall Street Journal, describing a once little-known but essential part of the narcotics trade that is now in President Trumps sights.

They run drug cargoes worth as much as $70 million on the sleek 40-foot-long boats, often built from fiberglass and powered by oversize outboards. These boats are the workhorses for the traffickers along 2,000 miles of Colombian coastlineand hundreds more miles in Ecuador and Venezuela.

These people are experts at sea," said a Colombian prosecutor who has tried members of drug-boat crews. Pursuing drug cases is so dangerous that the countrys attorney general doesnt allow prosecutors to be quoted by name. They have to know it perfectly," the prosecutor said. They need to understand how waves move, how to move a boat through them."

Prosecutors and former naval officials say many of the pilots and crew of the go-fast boats got their start as fishermen before transitioning into smuggling. The crews are usually made up of three or four men: a pilot, the most experienced and best paid; a mechanic who troubleshoots and keeps the boats fuel tanks full; a guarantor trusted by the buyer and seller; and sometimes a navigator to chart the way.

One Colombian pilot who plies the Caribbean said crews look for any advantage, from sailing at night or in rough weather, even in storms when Colombian government patrol boats might stay in port. Before the U.S. military strikes, he said, his main concerns were capsizing, drowning and arrest.

Even with the new threats, the incentives remain huge. The pilot said a clean run of two or three tons can mean $100,000 for a days work. With that kind of money at stake, he said it wouldnt be hard to find willing men to keep running the boats, even with the threat of military strikes.

The ocean is very big, very big," said the pilot. These drug organizations live from trafficking. They will continue to do this. This doesnt end. This will continue even if the United States continues its bombings."

Smuggling runs are mapped out weeks ahead, the Colombian navy says, with the cocaine often making its way north in stages. The boat crews try to slip past or outrun whatever Colombia and the U.S. put in front of them: coastal patrol boats to frigates and helicopters farther out.

Some crews run the entire route themselvesfrom Colombia to Honduras or even Mexico24 hours or more depending on the size of the cargo, the power of the engines and weather conditions. With speed of the essence, they dont stop for anything; even bathroom breaks are handled as the boat rockets forward.

In another strategy, crews toss tightly wrapped bundles of cocaine into the water marked with brightly colored buoys or hidden GPS beacons so another crew can retrieve them.

Another involves a meeting at a fixed point in the open ocean, with smugglers using geolocation to find each other. The cocaine is passed from one vessel to the other, which embarks north.

A drug-boat crew member who operates in the Pacific Ocean described such a rendezvous in August.

In an interview in the southwestern Colombia city of Cali where he lives, the slim, soft-spoken 29-year-old Colombian recalled how the operation began with the speedboat shooting out of a mangrove swamp, twin 250-horsepower engines roaring as the pilot next to him gunned the craft under a night sky.

The pilot kept the throttle down, never slowing as the vessel raced offshore, far beyond the inlets where the drugs were loaded, past Colombias territorial limit and into international waters, 200 nautical miles from land.

The crewman, whose job was to keep the fuel flowing into the engines, said he scanned the horizon for Colombian navy patrols as the boat slammed on the water, the pilot pushing for speed in a violent ride that unnerved the crew.

Traveling that fast is not easy. I tried not to pay attention," he said. And the waves were huge."

Twelve hours later, the craft idledever so brieflyuntil what counterdrug officials call a narco sub" appeared and stopped alongside. The boats three crewmen then transferred a half ton of cocaineworth $12 million on the streetonto the semisubmersible. Skimming along the waterline, the new craft and crew headed north to Mexico, the next link before reaching Americas cocaine market.

The 29-year-old said he earned about $10,000good money in Colombia but far below what pilots pocket. He said he was unlikely to ever see those crew members again.

Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth have called the traffickers terrorists and legitimate targets as part of a strategy to choke the flow of drugs into the U.S. The American military says it has killed 83 people in more than 20 strikes on boats allegedly carrying drugs, attacks critics say amount to extrajudicial executions.

If you are a narco-terrorist smuggling drugs in our hemisphere, we will treat you like we treat Al-Qaeda," Hegseth recently said on X.

The crew members are a link in a production and supply chain that includes an array of workers, from drug-crop farmers to cocaine-lab workers, enforcers to middlemen, a web of subcontractors paid by the load. It isnt a hierarchical system.

Crew members like the 29-year-old are more like freelancersyoung men recruited for a job.

Now, he is being asked to make another crossing. He is spooked by the airstrikes but hasnt ruled it out. It scares me but, yeah, I could do it," he said. If they put $13,000 in front of me, Ill go."

His calculation underlines the hard reality that counterdrug officials face: Dozens of speed boats, submersible vessels, fishing boats and other craft move cocaine on the high seas every month, many times more than what the U.S. has attacked since first launching an airstrike in early September, former Colombian naval officials say.

Colombia offers ideal launching points: small fishing villages along 1,000 miles of Caribbean coastline, and an additional 800 miles along the Pacific, where 128 channels and rivers let traffickers sprint into the ocean after loading up in mangrove swamps. Those Pacific launching points arent far from the myriad jungle labs where cocaine is produced.

Just imagine, you have these estuaries, these channels, all interconnected and they permit you to quickly move in your boat," said Antonio Jose Martinez, a former rear admiral who, until three years ago, oversaw the Colombian navys operations in the Pacific. And these young men know the routes. They know them perfectly."

Take the case of Ricardo Perez, who Colombian prosecutors said had a lucrative business on the countrys Caribbean coast. What began as a small outfit grew into a network of speedboats sending large loads, according to prosecutors, who built a case after a series of seizures tied to Perez. One of the speedboats seized last year carried a ton and a half of cocaine worth $42 million.

To operate, payoffs were made to a powerful drug-trafficking militia, the Gulf Clan. The cocaine they shipped didnt belong to any one narco group but to a collection of traffickersfrom gangs to freelance investors buying space to transport a few pounds, a common practice in the business. Determined to deliver for his clients, Perez hired the most seasoned pilots to ensure the cocaine arrived unhindered.

Perez was the standout leader, the one who coordinated the stockpiling for various organizations and the shipments," said the prosecutor on the case. Perez was charged in August with overseeing smuggling of cocaine to Panama, Costa Rica and Honduras, countries that served as a first leg before transport to the U.S. Neither he nor his lawyer could be reached for comment.

In the countrys remote seaside hamlets, some experienced crew members are thinking twice about whether to take to sea with cocaine, calculating whether the big payout is worth the increasingly lethal risks.

I think its a serious situation," said a drug-boat crew member who has ferried cocaine north along Colombias Caribbean coast. What really worries me is them bombing us, you know? Weve got families, kidsall of that."

Write to Juan Forero at juan.forero@wsj.com
BRUSSELSIn the accelerating contest between great powers, Europe is struggling to keep up.

The continents leaders have long worried they will be left behind as the U.S., China and Russia vie for economic, technological and military dominance.

Officials now fear they have reached that point.

Their mood darkened over the summer as Europe was left on the sidelines as the U.S. and China sought to reset the rules of global trade.

It became bleak when the White House presented a plan for ending the war between Russia and Ukraine this month without consulting European leaders.

In response, the European Union crafted a counterproposal more acceptable to Ukraine, and its member states are rushing to rearm as the bloc looks for ways to break its institutional gridlock.

Change will be hard and take time, something many European officials worry the continent doesnt have.

Battle lines for a new world order, based on power, are being drawn right now" European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said in her annual address to EU lawmakers in September. A new Europe must emerge."

View Full Image Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and French President Emmanuel Macron met in Brussels in October.

How to make that metamorphosis happen is concentrating minds in Europe, where the escalating fear among current and former officials is that the EUs structure and procedures will leave it among the biggest losers in the new geopolitical pecking order.

European officials are warming up to harnessing smaller groups of countries to make the whole bloc militarily and economically fitter.

Mario Draghi, a former European Central Bank president who was asked last year to design a plan to make Europe more competitive, is pushing for groups of countries to conduct joint defense research and procurement, and to design common rules allowing European tech companies to scale up quickly. Draghi, a former Italian prime minister, wants European industrial giants to pool investments in strategic sectors such as semiconductors to help the continent regain an edge.

It is an approach that is gradually winning support.

I think that we are finally getting realistic," said Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics. You cant change the dynamics if you dont have real powerbe it political, military or diplomatic."

For Germany, Europes longtime engine of growth, global shifts have dislodged the tentpoles of its economic success: cheap gas from Russia, booming export markets in China and the U.S. defense umbrella.

In response, Berlin has eased its debt brake, allowing it to pour 500 billion euros, equivalent to around $580 billion, into a decadelong rearmament program.

A rearmed Germany combined with the toughened up militaries of Poland, Scandinavian and Baltic states, and the extra layer of defense offered by nuclear-armed Britain and France, could create a coalition to check Russian expansionism, says Nico Lange, a former chief of staff at the German Defense Ministry.

Yet obstacles to wholesale change abound.

Defense ministries wont easily surrender control over plans and procurement. Nor will Europes big industrial players easily pivot from competition to collaboration.

The need for consensus, which defines the 27-member EU, often leaves it flat-footed in response to unreliable actors and fast-changing circumstances although the EU surprised many with its swift and resilient response to Russias invasion of Ukraine.

I think we are in the most difficult and dangerous situation since the end of the Second World War," Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said at a Copenhagen summit last month.

Events over the past few months have hammered those anxieties home.

In July, the EU had to swallow a lopsided trade deal with the U.S. that allowed Washington to impose 15% tariffs without blowback.

President Trump ignored European calls to pressure Moscow and rolled out the red carpet for his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin at a summit in Alaska in August. This is not to do with Europe, Europes not telling me what to do," Trump said on the way to the summit. Then he sidelined them in drawing up his Ukraine cease-fire plan.

The trade clash between Washington and Beijing threatened Western access to rare earths, which are critical to Europes defense and green transition. When a meeting between Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Trump brought about a temporary truce, it demonstrated to European officials that the continent isnt the master of its own destiny.

View Full Image Trump welcomed his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in Alaska in August

French President Emmanuel Macron in 2017 called for the EU to bolster its military, economic and industrial independence. Last year, in a follow-up speech, Macron warned the European project could die.

It all depends on the choices we make and these choices need to be made now," he said.

Pierre Vimont, a former senior EU and French diplomat now at Carnegie Europe, said the EUs institutions are struggling but that there was little will in capitals to spend years arguing over the blocs future setup.

The whole Brussels institutional framework, its methods, its mindset were not at all tailored" for the current period of power politics, confrontation, highly brutal competition," Vimont said.

Looming over it all is the U.S.s hardening stance toward Europe. Trump has forced European NATO members to pay more for their defense and that of Ukraine. The EU has set a 2030 rearmament goal. This year, the region is set to spend more than $560 billion on defense, according to analysts at Bernstein, double what it spent a decade ago.

Still, Europeans remain nervous about Trumps allegiance to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. His covetous comments about Greenland, an autonomous Danish territory, deepened concerns.

Europe had always believed access to its wealthy single market gave it real trade clout. But Julys trade negotiations with Washington punctured that belief, showing that the U.S. would wield security leverage over Europe to win a trade clash.

Europe had sought to avoid confrontation with China.

But Beijing continues to flood Europe with cheap imports as its own domestic economy slows, while Chinas technological edge and mass market have seen it pull ahead of European competition in industries such as electric vehicles, forcing significant job losses in Germany.

Washington has vacillated between pressing Europe to hit China with tariffs to cutting its own deals with Beijing.

The coming years will tell whether Europe will remain an independent economic poweror whether we will become a pawn of the major economic centers in Asia or America," German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said last month.

When Josep Borrell became EU foreign policy chief in 2019, he received an intelligence document spelling out threats. It listed the risk that Russia would invade Ukraine, fresh violence would erupt between Palestinians and Israelis and migration flows would increase. It warned of trade friction between China and Europe, and Europe and the U.S.

For Borrell, who stepped down last year, it justified his earlier warning that Europe must learn to speak the language of power."

I produced hundreds of EU statements asking other people to behave," Borrell said. The problem is behind me: there are 27 which are completely divided," he added, referring to the EUs member states.

Write to Laurence Norman at laurence.norman@wsj.com
Iran has sent the Lebanese militia Hezbollah hundreds of millions of dollars over the past year via money exchanges and other businesses in Dubai, as Tehran seeks new ways to funnel money to its ally, people familiar with the matter said.

Hezbollah, a U.S.-designated terrorist group, is in desperate need of funds to rebuild and rearm its militia and pay other costs stemming from its bruising fight with Israel last year, the people said. Its smuggling routes through Syria were disrupted by the fall of the Iran-aligned Assad regime a year ago, and Lebanese authorities have made strides cracking down on couriers bringing suitcases of cash through the Beirut airport.

The limitations of those routes have forced Iran and Hezbollah to lean more heavily on alternatives like Dubai, the United Arab Emirates increasingly important global financial entrepot that Tehran has long used to launder funds and evade sanctions, said the people familiar with the matter, who include a senior U.S. official.

Earnings derived from oil sales are sent to Iran-linked exchange shops, private companies, businessmen and couriers in Dubai, who move them to Hezbollah in Lebanon via the Hawala method, a centuries-old system that allows users to transfer money from one point to another entirely on the basis of trust, the people said. Funds are deposited with a dealer in Dubai and paid out by a dealer in Lebanon, with the two dealers netting out or otherwise settling accounts later.

A U.A.E. official said the country is committed to preventing misuse of its territory for illicit finance and was working with international partners to disrupt and deter it.

Spokesmen for Hezbollah and the Lebanese prime ministers office didnt respond to requests for comment. Irans mission at the United Nations didnt respond to a request for comment.

Hezbollah is highly focused now on rebuilding," said David Schenker, director of the program for Arab politics at the Washington Institute. Iran is not backing away from its commitment to its premier regional proxy."

Irans Quds Force, tasked with supporting the countrys allied militias overseas, has transferred more than $1 billion to Hezbollah since January, mostly through money exchange companies, the Treasury Department said in early November, naming and sanctioning three Hezbollah operatives.

The militant group, once the worlds best-armed nonstate militia, was battered in a two-month conflict last year when Israel launched a heavy air campaign against its armaments and killed its top leadership. Israel said it was responding to Hezbollahs rocket attacks on Israel, which began shortly after the Hamas-led Oct. 7, 2023, attacks that left 1,200 dead.

Israels campaign crippled Hezbollahs ability to fight and imposed a heavy financial burden. The group has promised to rebuild homes destroyed in the war and pay stipends for dead and wounded fighters while also expanding its recruiting efforts and trying to rebuild its armaments.

A year after a cease-fire ended the heaviest fighting, the group is still struggling to meet its financial needs. One billion used to be their entire annual budget, but after the war they need a lot more," said Hanin Ghaddar, a senior fellow at the Washington Institute.

The U.A.E. long had a reputation for being a hub for illicit funds and was placed on the Financial Action Task Forces gray list" in 2022 for not doing enough to confront money laundering and terror finance. The global watchdog removed the country from the list two years later saying it had made significant improvements in oversight, though some anticorruption groups said further progress needed to be made.

The U.S. is also concerned about funds being smuggled to Hezbollah through Turkey and Iraq, the senior American official said.

John Hurley, Treasurys undersecretary for terrorism and financial intelligence, stopped in the U.A.E. and Turkey before visiting Lebanon earlier this month to discuss combating Iranian money laundering and the financing of terrorism.

The cease-fire deal that ended the war between Israel and Hezbollah requires Lebanon to secure the countrys ports of entry and prevent the flow of arms to nonstate militias, primarily Hezbollah. Lebanon has taken steps including banning direct flights from Iran and beefing up screening efforts at the airport and other ports of entry.

To get around the tighter airport controls, Iran is sending larger numbers of travelers with smaller amounts of cash or jewelry that dont have to be declared and can more easily be hidden, the Arab officials said.

The cat-and-mouse game to prevent Iran from smuggling funds to Hezbollah underscores the challenge the U.S. and Israel have in stopping the resurrection of a group that is deeply embedded in the fabric of Lebanon and which is a key source of Iranian power and deterrence.

Hezbollah also has its own sources of funding via global networks reaching as far as West Africa and South America that trade drugs, diamonds and services like money laundering, the Arab officials said.

Earlier this month, the U.S. pushed back against a plan for Lebanons government to make disability payments to people injured by Israels pager attack last year on Hezbollahs rank and file, the senior U.S. official said. Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam later reversed the decision, the senior U.S. official said.

A spokesman for the prime minister said he isnt aware of any contact between the U.S. and Salam on the matter and that a number of applicants for the countrys disability allowance didnt meet the criteria for eligibility.

The U.S. is also demanding that Lebanon shutter Hezbollahs key financial institution, Al-Qard Al-Hassan, a U.S.-sanctioned bank that was established in the 1980s and which offers financial services including loans and ATMs to many Lebanese. Al-Qard Al-Hassan is structured as a charity and operates outside the purview of Lebanons central bank.

The cease-fire requires Lebanon to disarm Hezbollah in the south before moving on to the rest of the country as per a previous agreement.

Hezbollah is refusing to disarm, arguing it needs its weapons to defend Lebanons sovereignty. Its stance, and the inability of Lebanons weaker army to force disarmament, is heightening tensions with Israel and the U.S.

Write to Dov Lieber at dov.lieber@wsj.com, Omar Abdel-Baqui at omar.abdel-baqui@wsj.com and Summer Said at summer.said@wsj.com
TAIPEIFor years, most U.S. presidents have declined to answer the question of whether America would defend Taiwans democracy against a military takeover by Communist China. This strategic ambiguity"backed by aid for Taiwans self-defense and a robust military presence in the Pacifichas been key to deterring Beijing.

But with Chinas military growing stronger and leader Xi Jinping on a mission to tell the world that Taiwan belongs to Beijinga message he delivered to President Trump in a phone call Mondaythe question has resurfaced: Is saying little saying enough?

The view from Taiwans leadership: Trumps silence speaks volumes.

The relationship between Taiwan and the U.S. is rock solid," Taiwan President Lai Ching-te said Wednesday, after declaring that he would seek a $40 billion special budget for military spending to deter China.

U.S.-Taiwan cooperation during Trumps second term has been nonstop," Lai said. Thats why were confident about the future of U.S.-Taiwan relations."

Taiwans survival depends on U.S. military support. That makes Trumps public silence, coupled with his willingness to turn away from traditional U.S. alliances, a cause for concern for some in Taipei.

The fear is that Trump could modulate support for Taiwan to reach a trade deal with China, just as he has used U.S. support for Ukraine as leverage for a potential peace deal with Russia.

Taiwanese people want to hear, Of course America has your back, but America is not going to say that," said Lev Nachman, who teaches political science at National Taiwan University. Trumps not going to say that."

When Trump and Xi met in South Korea in October, at an upbeat summit that focused on progress in trade agreements, the contentious topic of Taiwan didnt come up. Asked during a CBSs 60 Minutes" interview after meeting with Xi if he would order U.S. forces to defend Taiwan, Trump replied: Youll find out if it happens. And he understands the answer to that."

With the two leaders planning to meet again in China in April, Xi made a move on Monday to drive a wedge between the U.S. and Taiwan. The Chinese leader emphasized to Trump his view that Taiwan must return" to China, which claims the island as its own territory.

Trump, posting on social media about the call, made no mention of Taiwan. Our relationship with China is extremely strong!" he wrote.

Xis message to Trump followed two weeks of Chinese diplomatic attacks against U.S. ally Japan over Prime Minister Sanae Takaichis comment that her country could be pulled into a war over Taiwan.

Following his talk with Xi, Trump set up a call with Takaichi in which, The Wall Street Journal reported, he advised her not to provoke Beijing on the question of Taiwans sovereignty. Takaichis office denied that Trump made such a remark.

Some analysts described Trumps public silence on Taiwan as a source of leverage for the U.S. side.

The U.S. has kept approving sizable arms packages for Taipei even as economic talks continue," said Craig Singleton, a senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, a Washington-based think tank. Xi pressing Taiwan on this call reflects frustration that Trump is not giving China the rhetorical shift it wants."

Taiwans security remains a focal point of U.S. military strategy in the Pacific. Military installations in South Korea, Japan and Guam maintain a U.S. footprint intended in part to deter Beijing.

The U.S. approved new arms sales to Taiwan this month, a first in the second Trump presidency. Taiwan has commissioned its new Abrams tanks purchased from the U.S. and is getting up to speed on the use of its new U.S.-made Altius-600M attack drones. Members of Taiwans military routinely receive U.S. training, including a unit of marines that recently trained in Guam.

Still, the Trump administration has pressed Taiwan to spend more on its own defensemaking every defense dollar spent by Taipei an argument for sustained U.S. support. Lai has pledged to increase the military budget to 5% of GDP by 2030, from the 3.32% set for next years budget.

The question of American support also has political ramifications. Public backing for Lais ruling Democratic Progressive Party is built in large part on the argument that the island must prepare to battle China and deflect Beijings gray zone" efforts to get Taiwan to submit without a fight.

Former President Joe Biden said, and repeated, that the U.S. would defend Taiwan in the event of a Chinese invasion. White House staff walked back his commentsall four times.

Trump has consistently adhered to the policy of strategic ambiguity, said Marvin Park, a nonresident senior fellow at the Atlantic Council who was director for Taiwan affairs in Bidens National Security Council.

Between Trump 1 and Trump 2, Trump has never willy-nilly just haphazardly or flippantly talked about Taiwan," Park said. You dont want Trump to talk about Taiwan until he is ready to talk about Taiwan."

National security officials in Taipei said that they interpret Trumps public silence as a sign that Washington doesnt agree with Xis claim to the island. Trump has previously said he received assurances from Xi that China wont attack Taiwan as long as he is in the White House.

Even so, the worry lingers on an island whose survival ultimately depends on the U.S. military: What if China attacks and the U.S. doesnt come to the rescue?

The question itself has a real effect on Taiwans security, said Nachman. While U.S. silence may deter China, it can also weaken public resolve, he suggested.

Whether or not we believe America is coming or not has a very big effect on peoples willingness to defend Taiwan," Nachman said.

Write to Joyu Wang at joyu.wang@wsj.com
Mumbai, New Delhi: Indian public-sector companies, led by Steel Authority of India Ltd (SAIL) and National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC), are scouting for mineral asset blocks abroad, including coking coal, limestone and critical minerals such as copper and lithium, after receiving specific instructions to do so from their parent ministry. The companies are eyeing geographies such as Africa, the Middle East, Latin America and Southeast Asia.

The move highlights the Indian governments clear shift towards having its own mineral securitization program through ownership of mines and assets, rather than relying on imports. This would shield entities from geopolitical fluctuations, ensuring uninterrupted supplies, and also reduce import bills for some key raw materials used to make steel.

The two entities, both under the ministry of steel, are exploring acquisitions and partnerships for active and operating mines, or even virgin ones for which pre-feasibility studies that suggest commercial activities can commence. Companies can look at forming consortia to fund these purchases or buy them directly if necessary, two ministry officials and two executives from these companies told Mint.

The ministrys directions to the two large CPSUs are: go out and secure mineral blocks, and not just regular offerings such as coal and iron ore, but limestone, critical minerals and so on," one of the ministry officials cited above said.

'Increasingly critical'

Dhruv Goel, CEO of Big Mint, a commodities market intelligence firm, said, The government wants Indian companies to own strategic mineral assets overseas. As a country, we need to secure resources globally because these minerals will become increasingly critical over the next decade. The government now views these investments as long-term strategic bets rather than quick-return projects. If a good opportunity comes up today, the idea is to acquire it even if the benefits may take years to materialise."

He added, This push is aimed at securing coking coal, limestone, copper, gold, lithium and other critical minerals. These may not seem urgent today, but they will be vital in the next 5 to 10 years. So when an overseas opportunity comes up, the thinking is clear: we should invest.".

China has already been doing this for years and serves as a useful benchmark, he said, adding that strategic assets it bought across Africa and South America a decade ago are delivering returns today. Private Indian steelmaker JSW Steel has interests in Mozambique and Australia, while Jindal Steels mining interests cover Mozambique, Australia and South Africa.

Both SAIL and NMDC own coking coal and iron ore mines in India. Coking coal mines operated by SAIL include Tasra, Jharia and others in Jharkhand, Chattisgarh and Odhisha. It also has 15 iron ore mines including Kiriburu, Meghahatuburu, Gua and Chiria in these three states. NMDC, the countrys largest iron ore merchant miner, operates mines in Chattisgarh (Bailadila) and Karnataka (Donimalai and Kumaraswamy). It also owns the Panna diamond mines in Madhya Pradesh.

Scouring the globe

So far, NMDC teams have visited Senegal to explore limestone blocks; Chile and Argentina for lithium, gold and silver blocks; Indonesia for coking coal mines; and Ras Al-Khaimah in the UAE for limestone blocks, the second ministry official said. They have also tapped Indonesia for coking coal assets.

During an investor call in May, NMDC chairman and managing director Amitava Mukherjee said the company was actively scouting overseas for coking coal blocks and other minerals. We are actively looking for assets abroad and we are evaluating many assets, which obviously cannot be discussed in the public domain," he said.

Our diversification and international policy is very clear well be looking at 10 minerals only, of which met coal or coking coal is one of the most important ones. Apart from that, well be looking at copper, lithium, cobalt, nickel, gold and bauxite," Mukherjee added.

He also said the company sees a big opportunity in coking coal as a miner, adding, It is one of those minerals where we have been mandated to look very closely and aggressively."

SAIL has also been asked to look for low-silica limestone blocks while exploring larger supply options from Stevin Rock LLC, one of the world's largest quarrying companies, owned by the government of Ras Al-Khaimah. It supplies high-quality limestone, dolomite, and gabbro for various industries worldwide.

Typically, limestone and dolomite are added during steelmaking to remove impurities from molten iron by forming a waste layer called slag. Dolomite also adds magnesium, which helps protect the furnace lining, making the process smoother and more efficient.

Simultaneously, SAIL has been asked to ramp up on its Mozambique coal blocks, prepare a capital expenditure plan, and ensure improved supplies, an executive said. It owns coking coal mines in the African nation through a special purpose vehicle that has five members  SAIL, NMDC, Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Ltd (RINL), NTPC and Coal India.

For context, block or supply expansion plans in Mozambique have been under consideration for some time, but have been stuck mainly because SAILs own capex plans have slowed down due to its high debt  around 33,663 crore as of 30 September. Mozambique coking coal block expansion could be at least a 200-crore project, a SAIL executive said, requesting anonymity. NMDC, meanwhile, has no debt.

The UAE push

Around June and July this year, Union steel minister, HD Kumaraswamy visited the UAE seeking partnerships for green steel manufacturing and to secure global mineral assets. His visit coincided with SAIL and NMDC setting up their respective overseas arms for mineral trading or securing assets in Dubai.

At a meeting at Ras A-Khaimah on 30 June, dialogue centred around securing long-term access to low-silica limestone, exploring green hydrogen and green steel collaboration, establishing calcined lime production units in the city. A day later, at another meeting with the UAEs minister of economy, discussions centred around leveraging Dubai as a platform to build international mineral supply chains.

SAIL, NMDC and the steel ministry are yet to respond to Mints queries.

NMDCs Australia bet

Beyond Mozambique, NMDC expanded its overseas footprint to Australia through its subsidiary Legacy Iron Ore in 2012, when it acquired a majority 50% stake in the company. While it has begun mining operations there, this activity is currently limited to gold, with production underway at the Mount Celia Gold Project. Legacy also holds iron ore and other mineral tenements in Western Australia, but these remain at the exploration and development stage, with no commercial iron ore mining yet. A search for lithium there is yet to bear fruit.

On Legacys profit expectations, the NMDC chair said during the May earnings call that the company was hopeful the entity would also be showing good profits" in the current financial year.
The Centre will spend 4,500 crore over the three years to modernize state-run Semi-Conductor Laboratory (SCL) in Mohali, electronics and IT minister Ashwini Vaishnaw told reporters on the sidelines of the chips-to-startup programme at the facility on Friday.

The Centre plans to fund the investment from the 76,000 crore India Semiconductor Mission (ISM 1.0), which was launched in 2021.

The investment will help in SCL modernization. The plan is to scale up the current production level by 100 times and create new IPs (intellectual property), he said.

For further expansion of SCL Mohali, Vaishnaw said there is a requirement for 25 acres of land. We have urged the Punjab government that we need 25 acres of land. The sooner they give, the more it will help in the modernization and expansion of SCL Mohali.

Also Read | India can be among top 5 semiconductor nations: Merck Electronics CEO

Mint reported on 10 July that a 26-acre land parcel near the SCL facility in Mohali has emerged as a potential hurdle in the Centres plan to modernize the decades-old plant with advanced chip technology.

Owned by the Punjab government, the land was identified by the Centre-run facility over a year ago for its expansion and the addition of new fabrication lines. However, ongoing disputes over the land and a higher price of about 700-800 crore demanded by the Punjab government are causing delays to the governments plans, Mint reported, citing officials aware of the matter.

When asked about the total allocation for SCL from the ISM, Vaishnaw said, it is a fungible amount. The allocation will be done based on the progress.

Earlier, the government had talked about earmarking around 10,000 crore for SCL's modernization.

Tech upgrade In February, SCL invited bids to improve the existing 180-nanometre fabrication line. The enhancement of the existing 8-inch fab, which uses the 180-nm technology node, involves the replacement of decades-old equipment.

The focus of the upgradation is also to increase the current production line capacity to 1,500 WSPM (wafer starts per month) from about 700 WSPM, which SCL does presently, showed SCL's documents inviting bids.

A wafer is a thin, flat disk made of silicon (or sometimes other materials) that serves as the base for creating integrated circuits (ICs) or chips.

Mint reported on 1 July that Tata Semiconductor and Israel's Tower Semiconductor have been shortlisted from among nearly a dozen companies to revamp SCL. SCL is yet to select the final bidder.

The 180-nanometer process is an old chipmaking technology. It is still used to make chips for satellites, space and defence systems, medical devices, micro-controllers, power management, etc. In chipmaking, nanometers measure the size of tiny parts like transistors and the spaces between them on a chip. Smaller nanometers mean smaller, faster, and more power-efficient chips.

Also Read | Made in India semiconductor chips are in focus. Watch out for these 5 stocks

An 8-inch fab line processes silicon wafers that are 8 inches (200 mm) in diameter. The size of the wafer determines how many semiconductor chips can be made from a single wafer. Today, modern fabrication facilities primarily use larger 12-inch (300 mm) wafers, which allow for more chips per wafer and improved production efficiency.

A modern SCL can play a significant role for Indias deep-tech and semiconductor startups by supporting pilot production, small-volume fabrication, and early-stage prototypingturning ideas into market-ready products faster, locally, and securely, according to industry executives.

India has a unique opportunity to position SCL as a strategic national asset, said Ashok Chandak, president of India Electronics and Semiconductor Association (IESA).

In the future, after 180 nm (nanometer) setup, modernization should go beyond upgradesby enabling publicprivate partnerships that help SCL move from legacy nodes like 180 nm towards advanced nodes such as 65 nm and 28 nm, making it globally competitive, Chandak said.

In October 2024, SCL also announced its end-to-end support, including fabrication, testing, and packaging, to chip design startups in the country. This means that chip design startups, who are working on the 180-nanometer chip technology for their system on chip (SoC) designs and other products, can now utilize SCLs manufacturing facility for prototyping and limited-scale manufacturing.

As of now, SCL has received 94 chip designs for fabrication and packaging. The SCL unit has delivered 58 chip designs to startups and academia, including those for manufacturing and packaging. This includes two independent chip design tie-ups.

SCL Mohali will provide whatever tapeout facility for startups, researchers and academia is required. This is important because no commercial foundry will take up a chip tapeout project of startups, Vaishnaw said, adding that a consortium involving Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (CDAC), SCL, and organizations like Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) will be formed so that chip requirements of the strategic sectors of the country can be identified and fulfilled.

Also Read | How next-gen semiconductor chips will supercharge gadgets

A tapeout in semiconductors is the point when the final, verified design of a chip is officially sent to the semiconductor fabrication plant to begin manufacturing.

As part of the ISM 1.0, the government has approved a total of 10 semiconductor projects with cumulative investments of around 1.6 trillion in six states. The government is working on the next leg of incentives, Vaishnaw said.
The Shipping Corp. of India (SCI), along with public sector oil refiners, are in talks with three large South Korean shipyards to set up a shipbuilding facility in India, three people aware of the discussions said.

Indian Oil Corp. Ltd, Bharat Petroleum Corp. Ltd and Hindustan Petroleum Corp. Ltd are part of the discussions with South Korea's HD Hyundai, Samsung Heavy Industries and Hanwha Ocean, the people said on the condition of anonymity, adding the new yard may come up in Andhra Pradesh. In September, the four state-run companies, which plan to acquire dozens of crude and gas carriers over the next decade, had decided to form a joint venture to procure such vessels.

Along with the consideration to procure vessels produced by these shipmakers, SCI and oil companies would join a shipbuilding entity, possibly through a joint venture as equity partners and remain dedicated buyers for ships being made in India," one of the three people said, adding this would provide assured demand for the yard and make investments financially viable earlier. Depending on the size and scale of the shipyard, investment can range widely between 1,500 crore and 15,000 crore.

Currently, Indian refiners charter foreign vessels for their requirements. However, an indigenous fleet is expected to provide support during times of turmoil, like the vessel scarcity that boosted freight rates in 2022. As India is one of the largest importers of energy, both crude and natural gas, supply chain issues may lead to a major impact on the economy and energy security.

An HD Hyundai spokesperson confirmed that the company was exploring various avenues of cooperation, but nothing has been finalized yet. "We signed a memorandum of understanding with Cochin Shipyard earlier this year in the commercial vessel sector and have since expanded discussions into naval vessels as well," the spokesperson said, adding Indian officials had visited Hyundai's offices where potential future cooperation was discussed.

Queries mailed to the ministries of petroleum and shipping, the state-run companies, Samsung and Hawnha Ocean remained unanswered.

While China is the world leader in shipbuilding, commanding about half of the global capacity, South Korea is the second-largest, accounting for 25-30%. India has negligible share of the global capacity.

The oil companies require about 112 ships over next five to 10 years, according to government estimates. Over five years, the refiners' consortium plans to buy about 59, through second-hand purchases and newly built vessels, of various types such as very large crude carriers, very large gas carriers, Suezmax and Aframax tankers, medium range tankers, and offshore vessels, with an investment of as much as 7.15 trillion over the next five years.

Suezmax refers to the largest ships, primarily oil tankers, that can transit the Suez Canal fully loaded. Aframax tankers are mid-size tankers and the name comes from the Average Freight Rate Assessment (AFRA) system. Aframax tankers became popular because of the size constraints on large oil tankers in busy and congested sea routes.

Talks gained momentum after Union petroleum minister led a delegation to South Korea with industry executives during 13-15 November, where maritime cooperation was discussed. The minister informed Korean executives that the annual expenditure of $5-8 billion in energy freight by state-run companies in India presents an opportunity to develop such vessels locally.

A.K. Sharma, former director (finance) at Indian Oil Corp. said, The initiative to own ships would help in self-sufficiency and at times of exigencies like sanctions on ships carrying Russian crude in the past few years. Indian refiners operating their own ships would ensure issues such as bans and sanctions on vessels do not have a major impact on supplies to India."

Sharma, however, noted that in terms of operating cost, the expenses would not have a major difference compared to charter-hire of ships.

"Taking into account running cost and depreciation, there may not be a major difference in operating costs compared to hiring these vessels. But, the major benefit would be that owning vessels would allow refiners some sort of flexibility in terms of transport," he added.

Gaurav Moda, partner and leader for energy at EY-Parthenon India said that given the expenditure on leasing and chartering vessels and the need for energy security, India should look at developing ships and oil and gas carrying vessels within the country.

India spends billions of dollars annually to charter ships, said Gaurav Moda, partner and leader for energy at EY-Parthenon India. "Therefore, it makes logical sense and it's high time to evaluate charter versus build/ buy. Therefore, doing more of the build is in our economic and national interest towards energy security," Moda said.

India is striving to become a manufacturing hub for ships. Recently, the government announced a 70,000 crore package to develop the maritime sector with a specific focus on shipbuilding.

Mint earlier reported that India is working on an ambitious plan to provide assured demand for ships built in the country from various state-owned entities and departments as it looks to incentivise investments in creating large shipbuilding facilities in the country and the ministry of ports, shipping and waterways (MoPSW) has asked the ministries of steel, chemicals and fertilisers, petroleum, coal, mines, commerce and textile to work on a plan for ship ownership by their respective state-run firms.

India's push is driven by an aim to magnify its negligible share of global shipbuilding, currently below 1%. The Maritime India Vision 2030 and Vision 2047 plans aim to elevate India into the top 10 and then top five shipbuilding and ship-owning countries worldwide, respectively. The target is to raise the share of Indian-built ships in Indias fleet from the current 5% to 7% by 2030 and a substantial 69% by 2047.
Indias telecom service providers have opposed the regulators proposal to impose turnover-linked penalties of up to 1% for filing incorrect or incomplete financial reports.

The government relies on these filings to verify operator revenues, compute statutory levies such as licence fees and spectrum usage charges, and intervene to ensure fair competition and protect consumer interest.

In submissions reviewed by Mint, the operators said the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India's (Trai) proposed framework, which seeks to link monetary penalties to turnover, is disproportionate and would unfairly penalise inadvertent or minor errors.

The proposed financial disincentive of up to 1% of turnover appears very stringent and should be reviewed by the Authority (Trai) to ensure that it remains fair, proportionate, and consistent with the existing regulations," Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) said in its submissions to Trai earlier this month. COAI represents Bharti Airtel, Reliance Jio and Vodafone Idea.

Also Read | Telecom operators dial govt for power reforms as costs surge

Queries emailed to Trai and COAI remained unanswered till press time.

In FY25, telecom operators collectively reported a gross revenue of over 3.72 trillion, an increase of 10.7%, according to Trai data. A proposal for linking financial disincentives to turnover has come at a time when Vodafone Idea is eyeing relief on its adjusted gross revenue (AGR) dues up to FY17 from the department of telecommunications (DoT), after a recent Supreme Court verdict. Bharti Airtel, too, wants the government to reassess its case for pending AGR dues.

According to the Trai proposal, if a service provider submits a false report, or knowingly leaves out any important information, it will be required to pay a financial disincentive of up to 1% of its turnover, as determined by Trai, according to the draft regulations.

According to the operators, Trais draft rules to increase financial penalties for delays in reporting tariff plans and administrative compliances go against the governments wider goals of promoting ease of doing business, simplifying compliance, and decriminalising minor procedural errors, as per the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2023 and the proposed Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0.

Trai is currently evaluating the inputs received from telecom operators. Any decision on the implementation of the regulations will be taken accordingly," a government official said on the condition of anonymity.

Also Read | Telecom a victim of regulatory overreach but problems lie elsewhere: Airtel MD

Last month, the telecom regulator proposed steeper fines under amendments to two regulations - the Draft Telecom Tariff Order (72nd Amendment) and the Reporting System on Accounting Separation (Amendment) Regulations, 2025. The tariff order amendment mandates reporting any new tariff plans, or changes to existing ones, to Trai within seven working days of its implementation. The regulator needs the same to review and intervene if a change is anti-competitive, predatory, or harmful to consumer interest.

Similarly, the Accounting Separation Regulations (ASR) are intended to provide transparency and accountability in telecom finances, allowing Trai to monitor the costs and revenues of different services and ensure fair pricing and regulatory decisions.

The purpose of the regulation is to ensure that telecom service providers report to Trai on a consistent and accurate basis. The present regulation aims to amend the relevant regulatory provisions to enhance the effectiveness of financial disincentives in ensuring regulatory compliance," Trai said in the draft regulations on ASR.

According to telecom operators, ASR-based filings are administrative compliance requirements that do not directly impact the customers, the market behaviour or service quality and there is no loss to the government as well. In fact, the regulator should discontinue the requirement for submission of ASR, and rely on audited financial statements and adjusted gross revenue (AGR) certificates for analytical and statistical assessments.

Even in the case of compliances related to license fees/spectrum usage charges, non-compliance does not lead to any penalty (post 2021 Cabinet reforms), let alone turnover-based penalty," Bharti Airtel said in its submission to Trai dated 7 November. The operator argued that Trai should first issue advisories and warnings before considering any financial disincentive, and said penalties should not be linked to turnover.

Under ASR, telecom operators must annually submit segmentwise accounting statements to Trai  breaking down costs, revenues, capital employed, and other relevant financial data by service type (such as wireless access, internet, longdistance, etc.), and by geographical area/licensed service area  so that the regulator can monitor the financial performance of each service separately and make informed decisions on regulations, and policies.

The regulator said the proposal is also to implement financial disincentive in a graded manner in the case of ASR defaults, which would align with gravity of violation, prescribing a maximum ceiling, and imposing interest on default in payment of financial disincentive.

Under the existing regulations, the penalty is up to 10,00,000, without any graded penalty structure.

Reliance Jio called Trais proposal for a financial disincentive up to 1% of annual turnover as ultra vires the Trai Act and unsustainable" in law. The proposed 1% of turnover disincentive would therefore be punitive, unjustified, and open to challenge as a manifestly arbitrary exercise of power under Article 14 of the Constitution," Jio told Trai in its submission on 7 November. The operator said the draft amendment lacks transparency, as it does not explain why the changes are necessary or how increasing financial disincentives will improve compliance. No data has been provided on the number of past violations or actions taken by Trai, nor any rationale showing how the proposed increase in penalties would lead to better adherence to the rules, it said.

Linking the financial disincentives with turnover is not the right way for such errors. Further, this is very subjective as to who will decide that there are errors in reporting," said Satya N. Gupta, former principal adviser at Trai.

As part of the amendment to the ASR regulations, if a telecom operator fails to submit reports or provides false reports, the penalty proposed is 25,000 for each day of delay for the first seven days. If the default continues beyond seven days, the operators would be liable to pay an additional amount of 40,000 for each subsequent day of delay subject to a maximum of 1,000,000. For continued violation in the consecutive years, the daily penalty proposed is 50,000-75,000, capped at 25,00,000. The maximum amount of penalty is linked to turnover.

Similarly, if the service providers dont report their new plans or prices on time, the regulator has proposed steeper penalties  starting at 10,000 a day for the first week of delay, and doubling to 20,000 a day after that, up to a maximum of 500,000.

Operators argued the regulator should retain or rationalise the current ceiling and rates of financial disincentive to ensure proportionality. The regulator needs to treat first-time or inadvertent delays for first seven days as minor procedural lapses leading to warning letters without financial disincentive, the COAI said.
(Bloomberg) -- Metals surged in volatile trading on Friday, with silver and copper hitting fresh records, after a chaotic hours-long outage on CME Groups Chicago Mercantile Exchange.

Silver jumped as much as 5.9% to $56.53 an ounce, surpassing a peak set during a historic squeeze in the London market in October. The white metal has been supported by rising hopes of a Federal Reserve interest-rate cut in December, inflows into bullion-backed exchange-traded funds and ongoing supply tightness. Copper surged against the backdrop of supply shortfalls and bullish price predictions.

The record-setting moves came amid low Black Friday trading volumes in the US following the CME disruptions. Spreads between what dealers and sellers would buy and sell gold for briefly surged earlier, signaling an illiquid market. As most trading operations resumed early in the US morning, futures on the London Metal Exchange extended their rally.

Spot silver traded at $56.50 an ounce as of 3:02 p.m. in New York. Gold rose 1.3% while platinum traded 3.5% higher. LME copper futures settled 2.3% higher in London after earlier hitting a fresh record of $11,210.50 a ton.

Silvers new high comes just over a month after a severe supply squeeze in the dominant trading hub in London last month, which sent prices soaring above levels in Shanghai and New York. While the arrival of nearly 54 million troy ounces has eased that squeeze, the market still remains markedly tight with the cost of borrowing the metal over one month hovering above its normal level.

The flows into the London market have now put pressure on other hubs, including in China. Silver inventories in warehouses linked to the Shanghai Futures Exchange recently hit their lowest level since 2015, according to bourse data.

In the short term, a further price increase cannot be ruled out if registered silver inventories in China continue to decline, analysts at Commerzbank AG wrote in a note earlier Friday.

Traders are also monitoring any potential tariff on silver after the precious metal was added to the US Geological Survey list of critical minerals this month. While 75 million ounces have left Comex vaults since early October, fears of a sudden premium for US silver have caused some traders to hesitate before shipping metal out of the country.

Silver has surged more than 90% this year, as investors pile into alternative assets in a wider retreat from government bonds and currencies, dubbed the debasement trade. Optimism about the metals fundamental supply-and-demand balance have also supported prices  the market is set to see a fifth consecutive supply deficit this year. Unlike gold, a large share of silver demand is industrial, with applications in solar cells and electronics.

Coppers latest leg-up comes after miners, smelters and traders met in Shanghai this week, with discussions focused on a tightening market. Kostas Bintas, the high-profile head of metals at Mercuria Energy Group Ltd., renewed his bullish prediction, warning that a rush to ship metal to the US risks draining the rest of the worlds inventories.

This is the big one, he said in an interview at the end of an industry conference in Shanghai organized by the Center for Copper and Mining Studies, or CESCO. If the world keeps going like this we will be left without copper cathodes in the rest of the world.

Traders have been ramping up shipments to the US in recent weeks to once again capitalize on a big premium for metal on the Comex, fueled by ongoing uncertainty about the potential for future tariffs.

Fridays surge is a response to very bullish headlines coming out of CESCO Shanghai, focusing on the pull of US units into the country creating tightness ex-US, said Natalie Scott-Gray, senior metals analyst at StoneX Financial Ltd.

This comes against a backdrop in which we already, for year-end, have a perfect storm bull narrative, she said, citing the anticipation of tariffs, an improving macroeconomic outlook and supply disruptions.

Copper has found further support in rising expectations of further monetary easing by the Fed, which could propel growth and demand in the worlds biggest economy.

--With assistance from Charlie Zhu and Winnie Zhu.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com
The Reserve Bank of India unveiled 244 consolidated master directions on Friday, replacing more than 9,400 circulars and guidelines that had accumulated over several decades, according to a statement. This move aims to reduce redundancy and facilitate compliance.

The central bank stated that the exercise, which took five to six months to complete, will bring about a change in how regulations are communicated, interpreted, and implemented, thereby sharply reducing compliance costs and easing access to regulatory instructions for all supervised entities.

This is only a consolidation, not a change in regulations, deputy governor Shirish Murmu told journalists in a media conference in Mumbai.

The purpose is to eliminate redundancy, remove conflicts, and make compliance simpler and more efficient.

The department of regulation, which administers norms for banks and several classes of financial institutions, has consolidated instructions issued since the 1980s into entity-specific master directions. Eleven categories of regulated entities, ranging from commercial banks and small finance banks to Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), Asset Reconstruction Companies (ARCs) and credit bureaus, now have streamlined rulebooks organized across core regulatory functions.

According to the internal classification shared at the conference, 3,809 circulars have been incorporated into the new master directions, while 5,673 circulars were deemed obsolete and withdrawn.

Also Read | RBIs new gold loan norms force lenders to wind down repledged portfolios

The final number of documents repealed stands at 9,345. The central bank reiterated that the new framework would significantly ease the process for banks and NBFCs to locate applicable instructions, thereby reducing compliance costs.

A major feature of the new architecture is that each regulated entity will now refer only to directions meant for that specific category. For instance, commercial banks will follow 32 subject-wise master directions, instead of combing through hundreds of cross-referenced circulars.

The responsibilities of boards have been consolidated into single sections, FAQs have been merged into the main text for regulatory clarity, and illustrations are now embedded within the directions rather than being left as annexes.

RBI also issued a fresh consolidated master direction on digital banking channels, merging earlier guidelines on mobile banking, call-based services and other digital authorizations.

Also Read | RBI announces relief for export sectors facing trade disruption

According to RBI officials, amendments going forward will be incorporated through colour-coded updates, maintaining continuity with the existing system of tracking changes.

While some circulars will continue to be issued during consultation periods, RBI said most final regulations will now be reflected through amendments to these master directions.
Shares of One 97 Communications, the parent company of Paytm, surged 3.4% to 1,325 apiece on Friday, November 28, hitting the day's high of 1,336 apiece as investor sentiment improved after global brokerage firm Goldman Sachs issued an upbeat outlook on the company.

Goldman Sachs turned bullish on Paytm, upgrading its rating on the counter to Buy from Neutral and sharply raising its 12-month target price by 123% to 1,570 apiece from the previous 705 apiece.

In its more bullish outlook, the brokerage sees the stock price reaching 1,870 per share, while in a blue-sky scenario, it anticipates the stock could soar to 2,320 apiece, representing an upside of 79% from its latest closing price.

The brokerage said the regulatory environment, previously a major drag on the stock, is now incrementally improving, which it expects will support early signs of recovery in Paytms payments market share, strengthen earnings visibility, and enable the relaunch of key products.

Goldman Sachs highlighted that Paytm has endured three major regulatory hurdles in recent years: the online merchant onboarding ban in 2022, the RBIs curbs on unsecured lending in 2023, and the ban on Paytm Payments Bank (PPBL) in 2024. Goldman believes these issues are now largely behind, with the company beginning to regain market share.

It further noted that Paytms UPI and overall payments market share have already started recovering in recent quarters. It expects this momentum to continue following the recent online payment aggregator authorization and anticipates Paytm will step up customer acquisition efforts.

Overall, the brokerage expects 2025% annual revenue growth for Paytm over the next 23 years. On the operating front, it has raised its FY2630 EBITDA estimates by at least 45%, resulting in sizable EPS upgrades.

Also Read | How Indian tech startups are blending products with services for lasting growth

The upward revisions are driven by three factors: sustained improvement in both direct and indirect cost control, reduced ESOP expenses after the founder forgone his grants, and strong traction in high-margin devices and the merchant lending business.

Paytm share price recovers 327% from record lows Once battered after its IPO, the stock has staged a dramatic turnaround, consistently delivering strong monthly performances that have brought relief to early investors and more than tripled the money for those who entered the stock in the second half of last year.

The companys improved financial performance, driven by a sharper focus on its core business, cost-cutting measures, and the closure of non-core segments such as ticketing, has been well received by the Street.

Also Read | Paytm share price crosses 1,000 for the first time in six months

After plunging to an all-time low of 310 apiece in May 2024, the stock staged a strong recovery in the subsequent months and has managed to sustain that momentum to date, gaining 327%.

Over the last 18 months, Paytm shares have ended 15 months in the green, including a nearly 18% jump in July, reflecting consistent investor confidence and robust operational execution.
Indian benchmark indices closed marginally higher in a volatile session after both the Nifty 50 and the Sensex hit new all-time high levels during the day. The index ended 10.25 points (0.039%) higher at 26,215.55, while the Sensex rose 110.87 points (0.13%) to close at 85,720.38. Early optimism, driven by positive global cues and hopes of a Fed rate cut, was partially offset by significant intra-day profit booking. The overall market breadth remained under pressure, with the advance/decline ratio showing a negative bias. On the sectoral front, the Nifty Financial Services (0.46%) and the Nifty Private Bank (0.34%) provided key support. On the other hand, the Nifty Oil & Gas (-0.73%), the Nifty Consumer Durables (-0.65%), and the Nifty PSU Bank (-0.58%) faced selling pressure.

Two stock recommendations by MarketSmith India:

Buy: Eureka Forbes Ltd. (current price:  547)

Why its recommended: Strong brand recognition, leadership in water/air purification, wide distribution network, recurring service/AMC revenue, growing demand for home wellness products, potential market expansion, and new product launches

Key metrics: P/E: 68.11 | 52-week high: 655.50 | Volume: 36.63 crore

Technical analysis: Trendline breakout on the daily chart

Risk factors: High competition from global/local players, dependence on AMC/service quality, margin pressure from rising input costs, slowdown in consumer discretionary spending, technology disruption risk, execution challenges post business restructuring

Buy: 607-620

Target price: 695 in two to three months

Stop loss: 570

Buy: Ather Energy Ltd (current price:  710)

Why its recommended: Strong brand positioning in Indias EV two-wheeler, expanding distribution and service network across multiple cities

Key metrics: N/A | 52-week high: 790 | Volume: 227.21 crore

Technical analysis: Trendline breakout

Risk factors: High capital intensity and cash burn, dependence on raw materials

Buy at: 705-715

Target price: 815 in two to three months

Stop loss:  665

How the Nifty 50 perform yesterday

Indian equities ended the session on a subdued but steady note, with the Nifty 50 closing marginally higher at 26,215.55, up 0.04% (10 points), after fluctuating in a narrow band through the day. Markets showed a lack of clear directional cues as investors balanced profit-taking with selective buying in Financials and IT. On the sectoral front, the Nifty Financial Services (+0.46%) and Private Banks (+0.34%) provided key support, while IT (+0.22%) and FMCG (+0.05%) contributed modest gains. On the downside, pressure persisted in Consumer Durables (-0.65%), Oil & Gas (-0.73%), Realty (-0.72%), and PSU Banks (-0.58%), signalling broad-based caution. The overall market breadth remained slightly negative, with 1,488 stocks advancing versus 1,602 declining, reflecting underlying softness beyond the headline indices.

Today, the Nifty 50 extended its consolidation phase, with price action showing a modest positive close but limited directional conviction. The index continues to trade above its short-term moving averages, reflecting an ongoing upward bias. Meanwhile, the broader structure suggests a steady sequence of higher lows over the past several weeks. Recent candles indicate mild indecision near the upper end of the current range, hinting at a cooling of momentum after the sharp November climb. Momentum indicators are signalling moderation. The RSI, currently hovering in the low-60s, remains in bullish territory but has been flattening, suggesting a potential pause in strength as traders wait for clearer cues. Meanwhile, the MACD continues to hold above its signal line, but the histogram has been narrowing, suggesting a slowdown in bullish momentum, though not yet a reversal.

According to O'Neils methodology of market direction, the market status has shifted to a "Confirmed Uptrend" as it decisively surpassed its previous rally high of 25,670 to register a new 52-week. The RSI has eased slightly to around 62, indicating cooling momentum but still holding in bullish territory, reflecting a healthy pullback within an uptrend. Meanwhile, the MACD remains in positive alignment, though the histogram shows signs of narrowing, hinting at a potential slowdown in upward momentum.

The index touched a new all-time high before closing the session flat, holding firmly above 26,200. A sustained close above 26,250 could pave the way for a fresh rally toward 26,300-26,500 in the near term. On the downside, immediate support is placed at 25,850, while a stronger base near 25,700 remains essential for preserving the broader uptrend and overall market stability.

How did the Nifty Bank perform yesterday?

The Nifty Bank opened on a positive note and stayed in the green for most of the session. It formed a second consecutive bullish candle on the daily chart and continued its strong momentum by registering a fresh all-time high. The index opened at 59,605.30, climbed to an intraday high of 59,866.60, and slipped to a low of 59,523 before finally closing at 59,737.30. With this move, the index entered uncharted territory, reinforcing the prevailing bullish trend and signalling sustained strength in the broader market structure.

The RSI continues to be firm and now stands at 72, indicating strong momentum. The MACD has generated a positive crossover and remains above the signal line, further reinforcing bullish sentiment. In alignment with ONeil methodology, Bank Nifty maintains a Confirmed Uptrend, supported by a solid technical structure and consistent buying on dips. Overall, the technical setup remains highly constructive, with scope for additional upside as long as the index sustains above key support levels.

The Nifty Bank has moved into uncharted territory, strengthening overall market sentiment. Persistent buying interest suggests the index could advance toward 60,000-60,500 in the near term. Immediate support is placed at 58,400-58,000, and any minor decline toward this band is likely to attract renewed accumulation from market participants. Momentum remains strong, and the broader trend continues to be constructive. Consequently, the buy-on-dips approach stays valid as long as the index holds above key support levels. With bullish undertones intact, the index is well-positioned for further upside unless a decisive break below support emerges.

MarketSmith India is a stock research platform and advisory service focused on the Indian stock market. It offers tools and resources to help investors make informed decisions based on the CAN SLIM methodology, founded by legendary investor William J. O'Neil. You can access a 10-day free trial by registering on its website.

Trade name: William ONeil India Pvt. Ltd.

Sebi Registration No.: INH000015543

Disclaimer: The views and recommendations given in this article are those of individual analysts. These do not represent the views of Mint. We advise investors to check with certified experts before making any investment decisions.
He was the first person to give me an autograph. I was eight. I had handed Dharmendra a notebook with a novelty cover that made it look like a sandwich, and in his massive hand, this looked like a crouton. He smiled as he signed it, and I stared. This gorgeous 50-something man wore a black sleeveless shirt, showing off the kind of sculpted arms I only knew from my action figures, and was instantly unforgettable. He had an immense aura but wore it casually, a giant nonchalantly larger than life. A giant who knows hes a giant. An aunt who sang in the movies had taken the family to a filmi function, and I was seated next to Dharamji. (This marked the only time in my life that my mother was envious of me.)

Decades later, he tweeted at me. I had co-written the 2022 film Chup with R. Balki, and Sunny Deol was a part of the film. The day the trailer launched Dharmendra posted about it saying Yakeenan yeh ek khamosh cheekh hogi" and wishing the crew the best, to which one of his fans posted about his guest appearance" in the 1969 film Khamoshi and the sublime song Tum Pukar Lo, where Dharmendra is never fully glimpsed. Several months later, Dharmendra replied to the fan: I am the hero of film Khamoshi."

Also Read | The most unique tasting menus to try on your next trip to Ladakh

This is an odd, unexpected clarification. Khamoshi stars Waheeda Rehman as a nurse in the psychiatric ward of a hospital, while Dharmendra plays a patient (Patient No.42). He is the romantic hero she idealises in her head, but Rajesh Khanna istraditionallythe films leading man. Dharmendras presence is striking, and the way he flits through the song Tum Pukar Lo, showing his gait and his silhouette and the back of his head, is magical. For him to feel the need to correct a fan, after all these years, about this hierarchy, may seem strange. It does vividly demonstrate one thing: a refusal to be forgotten.

Not that we ever could. Between the Dharmendra of 1969 and the Dharmendra of 2022, and indeed the Dharmendra signing my notebook in 1989, stood a man of dramatic contradictions. He was a man with a fine ear for shayari, a man who needed his movie scripts written in Urdu, yet it feels blasphemous to imagine kuttey, main tera khoon pi jaaoonga"his action-hero refrain through the 1980swritten in that language. I remember seeing Dharmendra on a Salman Khan gameshow where Khan asked him what he would do with the prize money of a lakh or two, and he candidly laughed, saying he would drink it away. I also remember him on a news channel speaking thoughtfully about a Muslim woman who was disappointed that he had joined the BJP, and how he had assured her that he was going to the party as a representative of the Muslims, a true secularist.

Every Dharmendra we saw was the real thing.

How he entertained us, how he gave us someone to stare at, how he made our movies larger than they were, as if they had to make room for this outsized hero. Andas demonstrated by Dharam Veer, where he played a gladiator who rose to be kinghow good he looked in a skirt.

Fifty years of Sholay also marks 50 years of Chupke Chupke, for many of us our most rewatched Dharmendra film. The hero is in flawless screwball form as a professor pretending at being a chauffeur in that comedy about language and class-distinction, plaintively asking whether chauffeurs dont have hearts, or demanding that his salary not be cut. In my favourite scene, Dharmendra bonds briefly with a burglar who imagines him to be a fellow creature of the night, sneaking into a bedroom. Dharmendra howls with outrage but his fury is instantly undercut by his concern for the burglar. Get out, he instructs, but go safely.

Dharmendras work with Chupke Chupke director Hrishikesh Mukherjee remains his most enduring. He was lovely as the quietly supporting male lead in Anupama, had a superb cameo in Guddi as the matinee idol, and Mukherjees Satyakama film about an idealistic engineering graduate getting disillusioned by modern Indiamay be Dharmendras finest, most sensitive performance.

There are so many Dharmendras to love. An underrated actor, he let his eyes tenderly wash over with longing for his heroines, let his smirks do the heavy lifting, held the screen with furious intensity. In Phool Aur Patthar he lands punches like exclamation marks, broad-shouldered haymakers that seem aimed at the horizon. In Anpadh he turns courtly, all tilted head and apologetic eyes, wooing with a gentleness that instinctly makes his co-star preen. Look at him in Johnny Gaddaar, barking orders and slapping around heroes, all authority and hardboiled experience. Watch him lip-sync Main Jat Yamla Pagla Deewana in Pratigya, every shrug and eyebrow matching the dhol, like hes conducting the orchestra with his exuberant shoulders. And then, in Shalimar, this macho star literally dresses as a chessboard to steal a ruby and somehow still looks cool.

Well always have Sholay. Where Dharmendra made denim on denim look better than ever, where he stood behind an idol and pretended to be a god, where he fell in love with a fast-talking girl, and where he stood high up next to a water tanker, threatening to kill himself if kept away from the aforementioned fast-talker. I was reminded of this weeks ago when grisly rumours about the actors demise were prematurely circulated by several of our inept news outlets, only for them to be shamed when it was instead announced that Dharmendra was being discharged from hospital and being taken home. As Veeru had said once the threats had paid off, Aaj marna cancel." Cancel, indeed.

Hes gone now, but what a way to go. A movie reference in one hand, a movie trailer in the other. His swansong Ikkis releases next month, and I hear the actor is lovely in the film. Im most grateful that this manthis impossibly beautiful manwent out on his own terms. He performed for us across seven decades, and finished the job with his boots on. Thank you for the movies, Dharamji, and thank you for that autograph.

Raja Sen is a Lounge columnist.

Also Read | Why Gen Z and Alpha slang is proof that language is thriving, not dying
Muktis stalker has just turned up at her engagement party and thrown Molotov cocktails. She responds by hugging and trying to reason with him. He blames her for everything, threatens to kill her, kill himself, suggests the two of them die by suicide. When hes finally dragged off by the police, she breaks down in the arms of her fiance, tells him their tortured history. What manner of comfort might Jassi offer his future wife? The first thing he says is, Shouldnt you apologize to him?"

The one true thing in Tere Ishk Mein is Kriti Sanons horrified face. This is to be expected, since Anand L Rais film is a long and winding road to the abject humbling of Mukti. But after a while, I couldnt help but see in it Sanons own horror at just how little the film cares for her character, how insidiously it paints her, and how clearly it revels in her downfall.

Also Read | Atrangi Re review: Jung and foolish

After air force pilot Shankar (Dhanush) disobeys orders one too many times, hes placed on probation. But because theres a war brewing with Pakistan, hes told hell be reinstated if a psychiatrist gives him a clean chit. The shrink turns out to be Mukti, pregnant and ill but determined to speak to Shankar. The rest of the film is flashback, starting with Muktis presentation of her 2200-page (!) thesis on close counselling as a cure for violent tendencies. Enter violent tendencies, Shankar gate-crashing her talk in pursuit of a rival student politician and falling head over heels when she tries to stop him.

Thus begins a courtship that may be intended as roguishly charming but is really insane and alarming. Mukti offers the loutish Shankar a deal: shell let him hang around and try and win her heart while she studies him for her PhD and turns him into a peaceful guy. Its a bizarre and heartless offerthough, of course, Shankar agrees. Even early on, you can sense the film setting Mukti up for a fall. The first significant humiliation is when she promises Shankar fun if he refrains from beating up a random man outside college. Sure enough, she takes him to a hotel room and peels off her shirt. He triumphantly walks outhe wants the submission, not the sex.

Shankar, as envisioned by Rai and writers Himanshu Sharma and Neeraj Yadav, is tempestuous and snarly but essentially innocent. Mukti is to blame, the rich girl who smokes and drinks and speaks French. The film is at pains to show her giving Shankar mixed signals (a particularly bizarre one has him studying for the UPSC entrance). Still so aggressive?" she asks him at one point. Still imposing your point of view on others?" he responds, eyes watering with hate. Their dynamic becomes that Margaret Atwood line: men are afraid that women will laugh at them; women are afraid that men will kill them.

Tere Ishk Mein flirts dangerously with MRA self-pity. In one particularly repulsive scene, Shankar pours a transparent liquid over Muktinot acid, though thats the fearand curses her to have a son so she understands that those who die for love are someone's sons too". Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub has a walk-on part as a priest whos only there to confirm Shankars core beliefs. Love is death, not mukti (salvation)," he says, before exhorting the young man to burn so bright that mukti will beg at your feet". By the time Mukti meets Shankar in Leh, hes moved past unrequited love into curdled hate.

The complication with Raias opposed to an empty provocateur like Sandeep Reddy Vangais that his films are deeply felt. Its a big reason Raanjhanaa (2013), his first collaboration with Dhanush, has a considerable fandom while so many other obsessed lover films are forgotten. Rais fascination for twisted psychology pushes him to take risks other directors wouldntShankar bringing up his mothers violent death just when his fortunes seem to have turned is a striking choice. It gets truly strange at the end, not as much as Rais Atrangi Re (2021) but close. Yet, all the mental jujitsu in Tere Ishk Mein is ultimately at the service of a narrow, mean-spirited idea: he loved her so much, why couldnt she love him back?

Dhanush works hard but the film works harder to make Shankar a victimof Muktis callousness, of her familys elitism, and of his own trauma. It's so blatant by the end. Shankar, still trying to outrun his demons, is a success, valued by his country, loved by his men. Mukti is a failure, riddled with guilt, endangering her unborn childs life. Theres a certain audience thatll delight in the sight of Sanon at Dhanushs feet. Rai knows that these are the people his film is speaking to, and he goes out of his way to court them.

Tere Ishk Mein is in theatres.

For more culture stories, visit Livemint.com/mint-lounge.
Earlier this week, Oxford University Press announced three contenders for the honour of the Word of the Year (WoTY) 2025: aura farming", biohack" and rage bait". Two of these arent words but phrases, if you are a strict grammarian, but that doesnt matter. Which, as you will realise, ties in with the argument of this essay.

If you are a Boomer (born between 1946-64), a Gen Xer (1965-80), or even a Millennial (1981-96) scratching your head over the meaning of such wordsor others like 67" (picked by Dictionary.com as its WoTY), rizz", skibiddi" and parasocial" (Cambridge Dictionarys WoTY 2025)you are not alone. And I dont just mean among your contemporaries.

Many people of your age felt the same way as far back as the early 1900s in the US, when phrases like 23 skidoo" gained currency among the youth of the era. Like many terms in Gen Z (1997-2010) and Gen Alpha (2010-24) vocabulary, it has no fixed meaning. Depending on the context of its usage, 23 skidoo could refer to get out", leave quickly," or simply be a form of catcalling.

If we go back a few more decades, the English writer Lewis Carroll left his readers just as perplexed with portmanteau words like chortle", which he created by combining chuckle" and snort", in Jabberwocky, one of the greatest nonsense poems ever written, in his childrens classic, Alices Adventures in Wonderland (1865). More than 150 years after its whimsical origin, chortle is part of the English lexicon, though mostly used in writing, usually as an archaism. The nonsense verse of Edward Lear offers more such examples (crumpet", crudy"), though not as popular as Carrolls inventions, as do the poems of Ogden Nash (chiffle", goggerel").

Among Indian languages, I can attest that Bengali, my mother tongue, has been enriched by the inventive genius of Sukumar Ray, famous for his absurd poems. And not to forget the legacy of our British colonisers, the Hobson Jobson dictionary of Anglo-Indian words and phrases" is a treasure trove of hodge-podge hybrid words formed by joining English with Hindi, Urdu, Nepali and other South Asian languages.

Moral of the lesson: do not be quick to dismiss weird-sounding coinages as passing fads.

Think of ghosting" (to abruptly stop communication with someone without any explanation). Not long ago it used to belong to this category of nonce words, but not only is it now part of daily parlance, we are also spilling the tea" (gossiping) and admiring others for their glow up" (a positive makeover). As these terms continue to seep into everyday conversation, they are doing more than freshen up our vocabulary. They are becoming short cuts for emotional expressions that once required tone, gesture and nuance to communicate with another.

As AI gets increasingly baked into messaging apps, it is taking over even basic exchanges and producing templated responses like AI-generated emails do," says Arunava Sinha, professor of practice for creative writing at Ashoka University, Sonipat, Haryana. Increasingly we will miss the real person behind the message."

As younger generations rely on invented words to carry emotional weight, the consequences of such a linguistic shift are more than meets the eye. On the one hand, a vocabulary refresh is proof of the elasticity of a language, especially its capacity to absorb words from non-literary sources like the internet, social media interactions and colloquialisms. On the other hand, these new additions are rewriting the rules of engagement in formal as well as informal settings. Together, it harks back to an evergreen point of contention: content or delivery, what is key to successful communication?

Speaking Without Words

One of the earliest attempts at answering this question was made by American psychologist Albert Mehrabian, when he ran a series of experiments more than half a century ago. In the 1960s, Mehrabian ran two studies, with 30 and 37 women, respectively, to test the role of emotions and words in communicating feelings and attitudes of a speaker to an audience. On the basis of his findings with this rather limited sample size, he designed a framework, popularly known as the Mehrabian Rule, and explained it in detail in his book, Silent Messages (1971).

The idea behind his framework is counter-intuitive, but it can be summarised into a neat, little formula: the 7-38-55 Rule. Basically, in any act of communication that involves decoding the feelings or attitudes of the speaker, the audience gets the crux of the message being conveyed (93%) from non-verbal cues, such as tone, facial expressions, body language, and so on. Only 7% of the meaning comes from the actual words used.

The catch is that Mehrabians hypothesis works in limited cases, only where the feelings of a speaker are involved. However, decades of misreading have turned the 7-38-55 formula into something of an urban legend, a shorthand to decode any communication act. As the man behind the theory himself has repeatedly clarified, it takes much more than non-verbal gesturescuriosity, empathy, emotional intelligence and a whole lot of personal qualitiesto form meaningful connections with others.

Also Read | Why are Indian workplaces and universities obsessed with clocking hours?

So much of it depends on upbringing and access. I feel lucky that in the 1980s, when I was growing up, our mum used to scold us in Shakespeare," says Preeti Singh, a communications specialist who works with a range of audiences, from MBA students to CXO-level executives. The way we process language depends on what we read, hear and observe around us. Communication, at the end of the day, is a dance. It is storytelling in action."

It is a fact that Gens Z and Alpha mostly read online, picking up in-jokes and catchphrases that originate in other parts of the world. We are slaves to the algorithm," Singh says. There is, in general, a shrinking of vocabulary to which even people from older generations are not immune.

Writer Menaka Raman, an older millennial and mother to 14- and 17-year-old boys, concurs that the emoji has killed the need to have a thoughtful or meaningful reaction." We dont offer condolences any more, but the namaste emoji becomes our default," she says. Its as though we not only do not have the time to think through our responses, but we are also scared of saying the wrong thing."

To make matters worse, there is an epidemic of fillers" and Americanisms, empty words that most of us have formed a dependence on, thanks to their ubiquitous appearance and circulation in real life, on the internet and in popular culture. I set my MBA students a speaking exercise, where we count how many times two people speaking with each other use words such as like, amazing, awesome, okay, fine, and so on," Singh says. Sometimes the number is as high as 25 fillers in a minute."

Given this shrinkage of everyday speech, it isnt surprising that complex emotions (or the lack thereof) are being compressed into nifty new words. Who wants to be cheugy" (outdated or cringey) like the Gen Xers, Millennials and Boomers, when they can be drip" (stylish)?

Vibe Check

Its easy for us old people", who preceded Gen Zs and Alphas, to bemoan the erosion of complexity in communication because none of us came of age during the unnatural years of the pandemic, confined to our homes, meeting our teachers, peers and colleagues virtually, through long weeks of lockdown and social distancing. Small wonder that when older Gen Zs joined the workforce, their mindset was tuned differently from their seniors. A 2023 Barclays survey in the UK, for instance, found that Gen Zs are twice as likely (49%) to use instant messaging platforms at work compared to the over-55s (27%).

Alolika Dutta, a 24-year-old poet, agrees that covid did lead her Gen Z peers to turn out as a relatively undersocialised generation". I wonder if we may have lower social intelligence, rather than just a strangely higher rate of neurodivergence, though I do understand that people are being diagnosed more enthusiastically now," she says. I also cannot help notice that we missed out on formative social experiences and thats bound to impact our lives."

It may not be so strange after all that a whole generation, excluded from the privileges enjoyed by their predecessors, would want to create a niche for themselves, especially if it can be built with something that doesnt cost anything: internet slang. As Nicole Holliday, associate professor of linguistics at the University of California in Berkeley, told The Guardian last month, This (desire to invent new slang) is just human development. Part of the psychosocial development of young people is differentiating themselves from their community, from older people, and establishing their own identity."

Also Read | Why the office needs to embrace Gen Zs work attitude

Every generation has engaged in its own version of this activity. For the millennials, words like woke and cool were the currency," says Karthik Venkatesh, an editor and author of 10 Indian Languages and How They Came to Be (2024), a book aimed at young readers. Its worth noting, he adds, that Oxfords WoTY 2024 was brain rot", which was announced shortly after the results of the presidential elections in the US. It seemed to be a fitting choice, marking the triumphant return of Donald Trump to the White House, a President who has contributed nonsensical gems like covfefe" to the public discourse.

The point of Gen Z lingo, like Gen X- or millennial-speak, is that it is meant to be confined to a select group of users. Its hard for many of us from the last two demographics to imagine our parents generation throwing around words like cool", dude" or bro", just as Gen Zs and Alphas may find us cringe for using these. But brain rot" or sus"? Its best to not trespass on this forbidden terrain if you happen to have been born a long time ago.

As Shyam Anand, Ramans 14-year-old Gen Alpha son, tells me, Most of these slangs are used by us jokingly, not in daily conversations. Older people dont get that we say these words in a comedic way most of the time."

Its time the rest of the world paid heed to such sound advice.

Also Read | Jane Austen's novels are both a mirror and a map for Gen Z and millennials
Shantanu Anand, 33, stays in touch with friends through pebbling". Every night, he opens his Instagram DMs to see the reels his friends have sent him during the day. He reacts with emoticons, called reacjis, forwards some to other friends, and moves on. Thats the full arc of most of his friendships now: reel, reacji, repeat. In some cases, he feels its an improvement over not being in touch altogether. His experience is far from unique. Last week, Instagrams own broadcast channel, Whats Good on Instagram, spotlighted a reel by @thefunfashionista, titled Are you even best friends if your chat doesnt look like this?" The videonow sitting at over half a million likesshows a chat window between two users thats nothing but an endless stream of reels and reacjis they exchange.

Whats missing from these chats? Words. Words are slipping out of our digital lives as more peoples interactions with their social circles depend on reels and reacjis. Technology has slowly eaten into our need to use words even as generative AI erodes our ability to string them together into cohesive sentences. What started with SMS shorthand born out of character limits and evolved through erstwhile Twitters brevity has eventually come to all platforms prioritising visuals over text. Across social media and messaging apps, emojis, GIFs, stickers, reacjis, template replies and AI-generated suggestions occupy the spaces where sentences framed by a human once thrived.

In effect, words have not just become less common, theyve become optional, leaving us to contend with how this changes the way we express, connect with, and understand each other and ourselves. Words are now such a small part of our digital society," says Anand, a Mumbai-based poet and content professional. Most people dont read captions, they just like a picture and scroll away. The speed at which you go from one Instagram story to another is not conducive to reading. On reels, words on the video are essentially subtitles," he says. Im now thinking which reacji fits as a reply to a conversation and moving on." With friends who tend to respond only via stickers, or personalised memes", he feels the urge to add them to his library, and then respond with a befitting sticker of his own. Words have escaped my thought process," he reckons.

The more effort you have to take, the less time you spend on an app, says Vikrama Dhiman, who works in product management at a consumer internet company in Singapore. Which is why every platform is optimising for reduced text input from users. But this instinct isnt new. Twitter (now X) did it as early as 2009 with the retweet button by removing the need to manually type RT" or QT" to reshare a post or quote someone, and Facebooks Like" button fundamentally changed engagement on that platform, he recalls. Food apps do it now by letting you reorder from your frequently visited restaurants without typing a single word."

Also Read | Why Gen Z and Alpha slang is proof that language is thriving, not dying

Not all of this is a deliberate attempt to eliminate text, argues Padmini Ray Murray, 48, founder of Design Beku, a digital rights and design justice consultancy in Bengaluru. Designers build for scale, and in countries like India, they also have to consider large sections of low-literacy users, which explains some of this optimisation." But the shift shows up in everyday digital habits, says Dhiman. Festive greetings have gone from typed-out messages to stickers and gifs. Even birthday dedicationsonce long, heartfelt postshave shrunk into a single Instagram story: a photo, a template, a quick caption, and youre done." Instagram did not respond to an emailed query on the topic.

Anand notices he is losing the skill to have a continued conversation," and even more unsettling, that hes strangely okay losing it." It scares me to think that I cant remember how I was doing conversations before reacjis, stickers, and like came into our lives." The shift is affecting his communication skills in the physical world, too, making him conscious of finding the right words at the right time. I dont know yet what my brain has lost in this process," he says.

Mumbai-based neurologist Siddharth Warrier could explain that perhaps. Language is a bi-sided phenomenon," he says. The left side of the brain links words to meaning, while the right side helps turn those words into coherent sentences. Within that system, the brains Wernicke area handles comprehension, while Broca manages expression. Memory, he says, strengthens through use. When we read, the words we absorb are reused when we speak or write, reinforcing recall. Visual content, however, behaves differently: its easy to take in but far harder to express because we still have to convert what we see into language, which for most people means words, unless someone is an artist who can reproduce visual content in a different format. We never wrote letters to each other unlike our elders and we are the worse for it," says Warrier, 37.

Letters forced people to sit with their feelings, he explains. My generation grew up on texts, and the next is growing up with emojis." Emojis and reaction tools make communication faster, he clarifies, but they also remove the friction that deepens self-understanding. Words are work, theyre not easy. The act of putting words to emotions allows us more insight to regulate and analyse them." Warrier notes that were consuming far moreand most of it visualthan were expressing. That means Wernicke is always active while Broca, meant for expression, is underused. Over time, this has led to a gradual shallowing of our thoughts".

View Full Image What is being pushed aside in the process is intimacy: the one-on-one exchanges where people actually trade ideas and allow themselves to be vulnerable.

In an ICSE school in Mumbai, Shreya Bhagattjee witnesses a shallowing of thoughts" in real time. Bhagattjee has been teaching English, mass communication and geography to students of classes IX to XII for close to a decade. Compared to five years ago, students struggle more with writing coherent sentences and essays," she says. What surprises her is not just the decline in writing but the rise of a new preoccupation: mastering AI. Children tell me they want to learn how to use AI to their advantage, how to frame a prompt that gives you exactly the answer youre looking for," she says. The skill they are cultivating isnt expression but optimisation: learning to ask machines to write for them. AI can be useful when you want to remove emotion from something youre trying to communicate, says Anshuma Kshetrapal, a Delhi-based creative arts psychotherapist. But when it comes to articulating feelings, Ill condemn its use because it removes the I from the conversation. Theres no personal nuance, no scope for self-reflection."

Also Read | Why Gen Alpha is looking for love and friendship in the world of gaming

Conflict resolution and emotional clarity, she argues, were never skills one learned through rote instruction. You really have to go through the rigour of having the conflict, of understanding how words have impact and how situations resolve themselves." In an era of low-effort, minimal text conversations", she fears that the muscle is simply going to atrophy, especially for people growing up in these times because theres so little infrastructure around learning it."

The erosion of meaningful conversation isnt limited to the young. Its showing up across generations. Minari Shah, a Mumbai-based communications consultant in her 50s, traces it to the explosion of digital communities. There are too many group chats now," she says. Theyre efficient for logistics: planning meetings, syncing calendars, sending quick updates. But they leave little room for depth. Its become harder to offer nuanced thoughts on any topic," she says. Most groups, she notes, run on a steady stream of forwards, memes and birthday messages. Further, with LinkedIns quick-reply prompts nudging you to fire off a congratulations message, people probably receive more wishes than ever and remember them less than ever, Shah says. What disappears in the process is intimacy: the one-on-one exchanges where people actually trade ideas and allow themselves to be vulnerable.

LIMITING WORLD VIEWS

British philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein famously wrote, The limits of my language mean the limits of my world," suggesting that our grasp of reality is shaped by the words available to us. The shrinking space for language has long had philosophers worried. And why wouldnt it? Theres evidence that this linguistic narrowing has been happening for decades. In July, a study published in the UK-based journal Earth found that nature-related words in English declined by more than 60% between 1800 and 2019. Terms like blossom," meadow," moss" have slowly faded from use. In 2015, the Oxford Junior Dictionary dropped words like acorn" and magpie" in favour of blog" and MP3 player," triggering a public outrage, including protests from authors like Margaret Atwood. But the editors argued that dictionaries reflect the usage of language, not its preservation.

As urbanisation expanded after 1850, people encountered the natural world less often, and the language for it began to disappear, they pointed out. We lose words for what we no longer encounter. First, it was the birds and the wild flowers. But what happens when we begin losing the habit of using words at all? Leena Dihingia, who teaches linguistics at Gauhati University in Assam, is cautious about framing this as linguistic decline. She prefers the term linguistic adaptation." Language, she says, has always reshaped itself to suit the medium it travels through. From letters to telegrams to SMS, weve always shortened forms. Now with stories and reels and stickers, we are adapting again. Multilingual users code-switch, mixing languages with emojis. Communities create local memes and region-specific stickers."

Young people, she points out, are often skilled at visual storytelling. They understand pacing, sequencing and humour in compressed forms. But the tradeoffs are real," she says. Certain skills like long descriptive writing might weaken if not practised regularly." Theres another risk of relying too heavily on visual short-cuts: misinterpretation. Every few months, sections of the internet erupt in debate over what emojis actually meanwhether a thumbs-up is passive-aggressive, which heart colour is appropriate for which context, whether the purple heart signals solidarity or something more suggestive. The same symbol can shift meaning depending on generation, context or even the day of the week.

Renuka Ozarkar, a faculty member at the University of Mumbais linguistics department, believes the challenge lies in balance. We need both abilities: to condense meaning and to expand and elaborate it when needed." The latter, she emphasises, requires critical and serious engagement with ideas and texts. (Abbreviated exchanges) also begin to impose inadequate ideas of what good or effective communication is, if we start thinking that the shorter the reply, the better the communication."
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah-led Congress government in Karnataka is likely to table the proposed bill named after slain Dalit student Rohit Vemula in the state Legislature during the upcoming winter session to be held from 8 to 19 December.

The legislation, which aims to prevent caste- and identity-based discrimination in higher education institutions in Karnataka, is being tabled following a push from senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, according to reports.

Also Read | Did Siddaramaiah take a dig at Shivakumar amid CM seat tussle? See cryptic post

The Bill is named after Dalit PhD scholar Rohith Vemula, who died by suicide at the University of Hyderabad (UoH) about a decade ago. The Bill, called The Karnataka Rohith Vemula (Prevention of Exclusion or Injustice) (Right to Education and Dignity) Bill, 2025, seeks to address the caste realities in higher educational institutions, according to reports.

Key Provisions of the Bill - The proposed law seeks to address direct, indirect and institutional discrimination and harassment on the basis of caste, providing for civil remedies for survivors in cases of discrimination and penalties on the perpetrator for harassment, according to a report in the Indian Express.

-The civil remedies include raising a complaint before an Equity Committee, which would be similar to the Internal Complaints Committee for cases of sexual harassment, within the educational institutions. The matter could then be taken to the district courts and high courts, according to the draft Bill.

- A student, faculty member or non-teaching staff of any institution of higher learning can be an aggrieved person, according to the bill that largely deals with a wide spectrum of discrimination in conduct, behaviour, omission, treatment, policy, custom, criterion or practice.

What is the punishment in the bill? -The discrimination would be a cognizable and non-bailable offence.

-The Bill imposes different penalties on individuals and institutions for various offences under its provisions.

-For individuals, the Bill prescribes a written apology to be the least of penalties when it comes to discrimination, stipulating stricter penalties for atrocities.

-The first offence can attract a punishment of one year imprisonment and a fine of 10,000, and a fine which may extend to  1 lakh.

-Repeat offences could result in a three-year prison sentence and a 1 lakh fine.

-If an institution violates the provision of being open to all classes, castes, creed, gender or nation, then it will attract a minimum penalty of 1 lakh and a maximum penalty of 10 lakh.

Why is the bill named after Rohit Vemula? The Bill, part of the Congress party's manifesto, was fast-tracked following a letter from Rahul Gandhi. The Karnataka Cabinet has discussed the bill, deferring it once for further consultation. It is expected to be introduced in the state legislature in the upcoming winter session of the Karnataka assembly.

In April 2025, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, wrote to Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, urging the state to introduce legislation in Vemulas name to combat caste prejudice in educational settings.

Why is the bill controversial? -The bill has been widely debated.

-Supporters see it as a necessary measure to honour Rohith Vemula's legacy and protect marginalised students.

Critics, mainly from the BJP, call it a political tactic, arguing existing laws are adequate and that the bill could lead to reverse discrimination.

Who was Rohit Vemula? PhD student, Vemula, ended his life inside a hostel room on the University of Hyderabad campus on 17 January 2016, weeks after he was expelled from the hostel over a dispute between his Ambedkar Students Association (ASA) and the RSS-affiliated Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP).

My birth was my fatal accident.

In his suicide note, Vemula protested caste discrimination, stating that My birth was my fatal accident.

Vemulas death triggered widespread protests across the country over alleged discrimination and harassment against Dalits and other marginalised communities in educational institutions.
BJP leader K. Annamalai on Saturday sharply criticised Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly Speaker M. Appavu for his terrorist remarks directed at Tamil Nadu Governor R. N. Ravi.

In a post on X, he wrote, The Speaker of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly, Thiru Appavu, has stooped to the extent of calling the Honourable Governor of Tamil Nadu, Thiru RN Ravi, a 'terrorist' merely for highlighting the disturbing rise in terror-related incidents under the DMK Government

Annamalai further highlighted various spine-chilling incidents that shook the state over the past years, including the suicide bombing in Coimbatore in 2022 and the security breach of BJP offices and establishments by PFI goons. He also underlined the NIA crackdowns of several innate terror units in Tamil Nadu.

"Has Thiru Appavu forgotten the horrific 2022 suicide bombing in Coimbatore? Has he forgotten the petrol bombs thrown at the BJP offices & establishments of BJP functionaries by PFI goons? Does he ever check the press releases of NIA on the crackdown of deep-rooted terror modules in Tamil Nadu in the past few years?" he asserted.

See the post here:

The BJP leader also recalled the funeral procession of a terrorist, Basha, who was the mastermind of the 1998 Coimbatore bombing, stating he was given a "martyr-like farewell" with "tight police security" provided during his funeral.

"While the people of TN continue to suffer due to the government's failure to ensure a safe environment, the 1998 Coimbatore bombing mastermind, Terrorist Basha, was shockingly accorded a martyr-like farewell, complete with tight police security for his funeral procession," he wrote on X.

The remarks follow M Appavu's comment on Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi, where he cited him as the "only terrorist" in the state, stressing that there is no terrorism in Tamil Nadu.

In a conversation with the media, when asked about the Governor's statement highlighting the law and order concerns and claims of terrorists entering the state, M Appavu said, "The only terrorist is him, there are no other terrorists here...This is his mindset..."

"He is referring to himself when he talks about a terrorist; there is no one else...In this state, there is no terrorism...and there are no law and order issues...He is simply hoping that terrorism will emerge here, that's all..." he added.
Indias bankruptcy code is gradually changing its character. The outcomes of insolvency proceedings show that operational creditors such as vendors had been most active in dragging defaulting companies to bankruptcy tribunals and also in settling out of court and withdrawing petitions. But that trend is changing in a significant way.

Mint looks at what the official data says about creditor behaviour.

Who resorts to the bankruptcy code the most?

In each of the five years up to FY22, operational creditors were ahead of financial creditors such as banks in initiating bankruptcy proceedings, going by the number of cases admitted in the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), as per data available from the sectors rule maker, the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI).

Operational creditors were proactive in invoking the code to put pressure on businesses for repayment. The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) came to be used as a recovery tool by suppliers facing delays in getting paid for their goods and services.

Also Read | Parliament panel reviews IBC changes; bill likely in winter session

The trend started to change after FY22, with financial creditor-triggered bankruptcy cases exceeding those initiated by operational creditors. In FY21, operational creditors accounted for 59% of the 536 insolvency cases admitted in the NCLT. This share declined to about 43% in FY23, 40% in FY24 and about 31% in FY25.

In the first two quarters this financial year, operational creditors accounted for 38% of all cases admitted. This share dropped to a third of all the cases in the September quarter, suggesting they are now taking a back seat in triggering insolvency proceedings.

Businesses themselves can initiate insolvency proceedings, but such cases are very few. So far under IBC, only 6% of the 8,654 admitted cases were initiated by the companies themselves. The Reserve Bank of India referred five cases to the NCLT for debt resolution.

Were operational creditors able to settle their payment disputes quickly?

The data shows that two-thirds of the 1,342 bankruptcy cases closed so far, including settlements, had been initiated by operational creditors. They also accounted for two-thirds of all cases (1,223 cases) withdrawn from tribunals.

In cases that ended in approval of insolvency resolution plans, operational creditors got about a fourth of their claims, while financial creditors got a third of their claims.

What does the shift mean?

The decline in insolvency proceedings initiated by trade creditors suggests that the IBC is maturing as a financial creditor-led corporate rescue instrument.

What brought about the shift?

One factor that brought about the change was the governments decision in March 2020 to raise the payment default threshold for triggering IBC action from 1 lakh to 1 crore. That measure discouraged creditors from invoking IBC for delays in small payments.

The changing trend in filings is quite natural and reflects the learning curve of both banks and the business community, said Mukesh Chand, senior counsel at Economic Laws Practice. When the IBC was implemented in 2016, banks were still comfortable with frameworks under the Debt Recovery Tribunal and the Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest Act. They had limited experience in resolution plans, creditor committees, or value-maximisation processes, he said.

In contrast, operational creditors (OCs) were quick to seize the opportunity. They had already been using winding-up petitions as a pressure tool under the earlier regime of the Companies Act and they adapted that strategy to insolvency filings too," explained Chand. The threat of admission under IBC became an extremely effective pressure mechanism, prompting many debtors to settle well before admission. The data from the IBBI clearly reflects this, with a large share of OC-initiated cases being withdrawn or settled prior to admission."

On the other hand, banks were encouraged first by the government and then by the RBIs directives to meaningfully adopt the IBC framework.

Once financial creditors realised the effectiveness of time-bound resolution, avoidance actions, and the priority accorded to them in the waterfall (the hierarchy for distribution of liquidation proceeds), they increasingly shifted their stressed accounts above 1 crore into IBC, overtaking OCs in initiating cases from FY22 onwards," added Chand.
Cyclone Ditwah Tracker Highlights: The Meteorological department in Chennai on Friday issued an alert regarding Cyclonic Storm Ditwah, stating that the cyclonic storm, which is centred over coastal Sri Lanka and the adjoining southwest Bay of Bengal, has moved north-northwestwards at a speed of 10 kmph since the past six hours.

Strong winds, intense rainfall, and rough sea conditions lashed Ramanathapuram on Friday as Cyclone Ditwah tracked north-northwest over Sri Lanka and the southwest Bay of Bengal.

According to the IMD, Cyclone Ditwah is likely to make landfall near the coast by early November 30.

PM Modi expressed his heartfelt condolences to the people of Sri Lanka who lost loved ones in Cyclone Ditwah, and prayed for the safety, comfort, and speedy recovery of all those affected.

In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, My heartfelt condolences to the people of Sri Lanka who have lost their loved ones due to Cyclone Ditwah. I pray for the safety, comfort and swift recovery of all affected families. In solidarity with our closest maritime neighbour, India has urgently dispatched relief materials and vital HADR support under Operation Sagar Bandhu. We stand ready to provide more aid and assistance as the situation evolves. Guided by Indias Neighbourhood First policy and Vision MAHASAGAR, India continues to stand firmly with Sri Lanka in its hour of need.

Alerting about intense rain, IMD in a post on X said, the Cyclonic Storm Ditwah over coastal Sri Lanka and adjoining southwest Bay of Bengal. It is very likely to cause heavy to extremely heavy rainfall over Tamil Nadu & Puducherry during 28th -30th November and over Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema during 29th November-01st December.

What does Ditwah mean?

The name Ditwah, meaning a lagoon, was suggested by Yemen and is likely derived from Detwah Lagoon on the northwest coast of Socotra.
Delhi's air quality loomed near the severe mark on Friday morning, a day after the CAQM lifted Stage-3 restrictions of the Graded Response Action Plan (Grap) in the National Capital Region (NCR).

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi's air quality index (AQI) was at 384 at 7:00 AM on November 28.

The 24-hour average on Thursday at 4 PM was 377. By 8:00 PM, the AQI had reached 381 and was continuing to rise. Several stations reported a severe AQI late yesterday evening.

The capital city has been experiencing poor air quality for the last 14 days.

An AQI between 201 and 300 is considered "poor", 301 and 400 "very poor", and 401 and 500 severe, according to the CPCB.

However, forecasts by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology suggest that the air will remain in the very poor category.

No GRAP 3 The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) subcommittee reportedly did not hold a meeting on Thursday, despite the deterioration of air quality in the city. Officials expect the AQI to improve again on Friday.

Based on the forecast provided by the IMD and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, we were told the AQI will worsen marginally on Thursday as wind speeds will drop, a Hindustan Times report quoted a CAQM official as saying.

However, by Thursday evening and from Friday onwards, winds are forecast to pick up again and so the AQI is not likely to touch 400 and into the severe category, the official said, adding they were monitoring the situation closely.

During winters, Delhi-NCR enforces restrictions under the GRAP, which categorises the air quality into four stages -- Stage 1 (Poor, AQI 201-300), Stage 2 (Very Poor, AQI 301-400), Stage 3 (Severe, AQI 401-450) and Stage 4 (Severe Plus, AQI above 450).

Delhi temperature to remain below average today The weather agency has forecast dense fog conditions in Delhi from November 28 to November 30 in the early morning hours. Partly Cloudy sky. Shallow fog during the morning hours, IMD said in its bulletin.

It also said that the temperature in the capital city will remain 1 to 2C below normal. The maximum and minimum temperatures over Delhi are likely to be in the range of 25 to 27C and 09 to 11C, respectively. The minimum temperatures will be below normal (-0.7 to -1.3C) and maximum temperatures will be below normal (-1 to -2C) over Delhi.

The Met Department said the predominant surface wind is likely to be from the north direction, with calm wind gradually increasing to up to 5 kmph during the morning hours.

The wind speed will increase, becoming less than 10 kmph from the north-northwest direction in the afternoon. The wind speed will decrease, becoming less than 05 kmph from the northwest direction during the evening and night, IMD said.
Delhi: A 23-year-old man allegedly raped a woman with mental health conditions, slashed her face and head with a sharp object before bludgeoning her to death using a stone, the Delhi Police said on Friday as they called the accused a "psycho killer".

The accused, Salman alias Bona, was arrested from Gujarat following an intensive manhunt. The Delhi Police tracked down with the help of CCTV footage and a pair of slippers he had left at the crime spot, an officer said.

He added that the accused raped the 52-year-old woman before brutally murdering her.

How did the incident come to light? On 16 November, police received information that a woman's body was lying in some shrubs behind Adarsh Nagar Railway Station. The deceased was later identified as a rag picker and resident of Metro Vihar in Holambi Kalan, he said.

According to the police, the semi-naked body of the victim bore deep cut wounds on the face and head, apparently inflicted with a knife.

Also Read | Congress MLA Rahul Mamkootathil booked for rape charges, forced abortion

A weapon of offence, a pair of women's slippers and another belonging to a man were recovered from the spot. Following this, an investigation into the matter was launched after registering a case.

"CCTV footage from a public toilet near the station showed the woman entering the premises. Moments later, a man dressed in a pink shirt, grey pants and white-and-black slippers was seen following her. The slippers matched the ones recovered from the scene," the officer said.

The footage also showed the suspect exiting barefoot towards Sarai Peepal Thala, he said.

The CCTV trail led investigators to the Jhuggis of Badhola village, where the suspect was identified as Salman. However, he had fled before police reached his residence, the officer added.

Teams were dispatched to Loni in Ghaziabad, Mukundpur and Kasganj in Uttar Pradesh, but the accused remained untraceable. His mobile phone had been switched off since the day before the murder.

On the intervening night of November 17 and 18, a tip-off was received that Salman had fled to Vedach in Gujarat. The accused was subsequently arrested and during interrogation, he confessed to the murder, the officer said.

"The accused was following the victim and he first hit a stone on her head injuring her badly. He then raped her and before leaving the spot, he murdered her using a sharp-edge weapon. The nature of the crime was gruesome. We are investigating the entire matter further," the officer said.

The police said that Salman is a habitual offender, who is previously involved in two heinous cases of robbery and kidnapping and rape of a minor girl.
NEW DELHI : India is looking to finalize a framework agreement on reciprocal tariffs with the US by the end of this year, said commerce secretary Rajesh Agrawal, marking a significant step toward resolving the issue that has strained bilateral trade between the two countries.

The two countries are making steady progress on a deal running parallel to the broader bilateral trade agreement negotiations, and the government is pursuing two separate parallel tracks" with Washington, Agrawal said on Friday.

While a comprehensive trade agreement will take longer due to its wide scope, the framework dealaimed specifically at addressing reciprocal tariff challengeshas moved into an advanced stage," he said while speaking at an event organised by industry lobby Ficci.

US President Donald Trump initially announced a 25% reciprocal tariff on India in April, but imposed an additional 25% in August for buying Russian oil, taking the total levy on Indian goods to 50%. The tariffs have hit Indias exports to the US, particularly from labour-intensive sectors such as garments, leather, gems and jewellery. Shipments to the US account for roughly 2% of Indias GDP.

We are very optimistic and hopeful that we should find a solution within this calendar year. We have engaged deeply with the US teams over the last few months and have tried to iron out most issues. It is now only a matter of time to find the right landing zone for both countries," the Commerce Secretary said at the event.

The progress on the framework agreement will support and feed into the larger bilateral negotiations."

Export trends, tariff impact

New Delhi and Washington have been negotiating a bilateral trade agreement since it was announced on 13 February during Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to Washington. Both leaders had issued a joint statement at the time, committing to increase the bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030.

Despite global trade volatility, Agrawal said Indias merchandise exports touched $491 billion in the first seven months of FY26, compared to $469 billion in the same period last year.

He pointed to Indian exporters ability to diversify markets after the US tariffs, citing a 60% jump in shrimp exports to the European Union (EU). He said the upcoming IndiaEU summit in January was expected to give further momentum to the India-EU trade negotiations. Both sides had earlier committed to concluding the talks by the end of December.

Meanwhile, Indias exports to the US showed signs of recovery in October after four straight months of decline, even as broader exports remained subdued and the countrys import bill ballooned due to a sharp rise in gold and silver shipments.

The commerce ministry data showed Indias merchandise exports to the US at $6.3 billion in October, up 14.5% from September, the first month-on-month increase since May, despite Washingtons 50% tariff on most Indian goods.

However, at $6.3 billion, this remains lower than the $6.9 billion recorded in October 2024, according to Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) co-founder Ajay Srivastava.Dhirenra

The punitive US tariffs have cast a shadow on Indias trade growth as goods trade deficit ballooned to an all-time high in October. The trade gap widened sharply to $41.68 billion last month, up from $32.15 billion in September and $26.2 billion a year earlier, according to the commerce ministry data.

Mint reported on 22 October that India and the United States are nearing a long-stalled trade agreement that would reduce US tariffs on Indian imports to 1516% from the steep 50%. Energy and agriculture emerged as key issues at the negotiating table, and India may agree to gradually reduce its imports of Russian oil.
Kapil Sharma cafe shooting: The Delhi Police Crime Branch on Friday, 28 November, arrested Goldy Dhillon gang's member Bandhu Man Singh in connection with shooting at comedian Kapil Sharma's restaurant in Canada.

A prominent criminal of the gang, Bandhu Man Singh has several criminal cases are registered against him. Authorities recovered a Chinese pistol and cartridges from his possession.

Also Read | Delhi police seize 32 lakh worth banned painkillers in a major crackdown

Allegedly linked with multiple extortion rackets targeting businessmen and high-profile individuals, Bandhu Man Singh is a close associate of the Canada-based Goldy Dhillon gang. Probe into the case revealed that the accused was coordinating with Dhillon's network.

"A Chinese pistol along with cartridges was recovered from his possession. His role in the conspiracy and his links with overseas operatives are being further probed," PTI quoted senior police officer as saying.

Kapil Sharma addresses shooting incidents at Kap's Cafe This development comes two days after the 44-year-old actor-comedian recently addressed the shooting incidents at Kap's Cafe in Canada's Surrey. He asserted that he isn't scared of the threats as he alleged that the establishment always returned bigger than before.

Speaking at the trailer launch event of his latest film Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2, he said, What I feel is that the rules there and the police perhaps don't have the power to control (such an incident). But when our case happened, it went to the federal government, and there was a discussion in the Canadian parliament, Kapil said, before adding, In fact, after every firing incident, we got a bigger opening at the cafe. So it is all ok if God is with me," Hindustan Times reported.

Kapil Sharma's restaurant, which opened in July in British Columbia' Surrey, was the first one to be attacked. Unknown shooters targeted it just a few days after its opening.

Condemning violence, in a post on Instagram, he wrote, Thank you to the mayor of surrey Brenda Locke,@surreypoliceservice and all the officials who visited @thekapscafe_ to show their love and support. United we stand against violence. Were truly grateful.

In the following three months, two more attacks surfaced, one on August 7 and another on October 16. Although no one was injured in the shooting incidents but probe into the firing is ongoing to identify additional conspirators and ascertain the extent of the gang's activities in India and abroad. Notably, no group claimed responsibility for the attacks.

Also Read | Delhi Police issues travel advisory amid heightened security
Former IPS officer and former Puducherry Lieutenant Governor Kiran Bedi has issued a renewed public appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as Delhis air quality continues to plunge into hazardous territory. With pollution levels remaining in the very poor to severe categories for over two weeks, Bedi has turned her social-media feed into a steady stream of alerts, urging urgent central intervention and coordinated action among neighbouring states.

What did Kiran Bedi urge PM Modi to do? In a detailed post on X, Bedi made an emotional plea to the Prime Minister, recalling his leadership style during her administrative tenure in Puducherry:

Sir please forgive me for pleading again.

But I have seen your very effective Zoom sessions during my time in Puducherry.

How you got every body to deliver and perform time bound in several national challenges. .

How everyone was inspired to meet the deadlines and the goals.

She suggested that Modi conduct periodic, structured virtual meetings with the Chief Ministers and Chief Secretaries of Delhis neighbouring states to monitor progress on pollution control:

Sir your zoom meet with these five neighbouring CMs periodically, along with Chief Secretaries, with fixed schedule even just once a month, to report progress, will stop the situation to worsen.

It will give us hope because we will know its under your oversight. People can heave a sense of relief.

Kiran Bedi also urged the Prime Minister to use his Mann ki Baat platform to appeal for behavioural change across communities:

You may consider an appeal even thru your munkibaat on people to understand their roles in pollution control. For all sections, all age groups.

Tagging the Prime Minister's Office, she ended her appeal with a pointed remark about administrative expectations: Delhi was waiting for a double engine in this respect too, to undo the damage done last 10 years.

Why is Kiran Bedi repeatedly posting about Delhis air? Kiran Bedi has been giving a running commentary on Delhis deteriorating air quality, with repeated feedback posts flagging public health concerns and administrative lapses.

In one of her latest posts, she reshared a Down To Earth cartoon depicting two hospital patients  one injured for demanding clean air  captioning it: Another feed alongside the hashtag #pollution.

Delhi has been battling toxic air for over 15 days, with visibility dipping and PM2.5 levels crossing emergency thresholds. The Air Quality Early Warning System predicts that the situation will stay in the very poor bracket through the coming week.

Delhi AQI: What are health experts warning? Doctors across the capital have urged residents  especially vulnerable groups such as smokers, asthma patients, children, and people with cardiac or chronic respiratory conditions  to undergo preventive diagnostic screenings as pollution-linked illnesses rise.

Experts warn that prolonged exposure to toxic air is triggering airway inflammation, reducing lung function, aggravating pre-existing diseases and increasing hospital admissions. Preventive checks, they note, are increasingly essential to detect early deterioration.

What does Kiran Bedi mean by waiting for a double engine? Kiran Bedi's remark refers to the BJPs campaign promise during the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections, which projected a double-engine government  the same party ruling both the Centre and Delhi  as the solution to persistent governance challenges, including pollution.

The election took place on 5 February 2025 with results declared on 8 February. The BJP registered a decisive victory, winning 48 of 70 seats and returning to power in the capital after 27 years.

Rekha Gupta, the MLA from Shalimar Bagh, took oath as Chief Minister on 20 February 2025, signalling a significant shift in Delhis political landscape.
SIR in Bengal: The standoff between the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Election Commission of India (ECI) over the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal escalated sharply on Friday, as the poll body delivered a detailed rebuttal to the partys objections and issued fresh directives aimed at safeguarding the neutrality of field-level officers.

The meeting, attended by a 10-member TMC delegation, ended with both sides trading strong words, deepening what has become one of the most contentious political flashpoints of the year.

What did the ECI tell the TMC delegation? According to ECI officials in the know, the Commission gave a point-by-point rebuttal to each baseless allegation raised by the TMC, asking the party to wait until 9 December, when the draft electoral rolls will be published, before filing claims or objections.

Until then, the ECI emphasised that the TMC must not interfere with the independent functioning of Booth Level Officers (BLOs), Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) and District Election Officers (DEOs), all of whom are state government employees on deputation to election-related duties.

The officials added that the TMC delegation was told not to influence or threaten the BLOs regarding dead, shifted and duplicate voters. The Commission underscored that only Indian citizens are entitled to vote, saying: As per Article 326 of the Constitution of India, foreigners cannot be allowed to vote.

What steps has the ECI taken in response to recent incidents? In a significant move, the ECI has appointed a special roll observer for West Bengal to oversee the SIR process.

It has also issued a letter to the DGP, West Bengal, and the Kolkata Police Commissioner, directing them to ensure that BLOs are not pressured or threatened by political workers during the exercise.

Additionally, the Commission has instructed all DEOs to ensure the establishment of new polling stations in slums, high-rise buildings and gated residential colonies, in line with national guidelines.

Amid concerns over recent security breaches at the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), West Bengal, the ECI has ordered the office to be shifted to a more secure location, while directing the Kolkata Police Commissioner to guarantee complete security for both the existing and the proposed premises.

Why is the SIR in Bengal becoming a political flashpoint? The TMC has repeatedly raised concerns about the SIR process, alleging bias, administrative pressure and lapses in voter roll management. At Fridays meeting, the party described the Commissions responses as outright lies, widening the rift between the two sides.

Last week, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee publicly voiced serious concerns over the SIR and urged the ECI to intervene. With allegations circulating about BLO deaths and overwork, the Commission agreed to meet the TMC delegation, but Fridays exchange appeared to deepen tensions rather than resolve them.

Why has the TMC launched an internal overhaul mid-SIR? Parallel to its confrontation with the ECI, the TMC leadership has initiated a major internal shake-up to tighten supervision of the SIR at the grassroots. Party insiders say dissatisfaction expressed by Mamata Banerjee over uneven progress triggered the move.

TMC National General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee has dispatched nine senior leaders to districts for on-ground monitoring, instructing them to pack clothes for nine days, operate from the war room, not the party office  a directive that reminded many leaders of the TMCs intense booth-level mobilisation strategy ahead of the 2021 Assembly elections.

During a closed-door meeting on Monday, Abhishek Banerjee reportedly named leaders whose field presence he found inadequate. Labour Minister Moloy Ghatak and MLA Manoj Tiwari were among those singled out. Abhishek warned that insufficient engagement could lead to avoidable political landmines as the state moves towards the 2026 election cycle.
Russian President Vladimir Putin is scheduled to make a 2-day visit to India next month. Russian state news agencies on Friday confirmed the development and said that the 73-year-old leader will be in India from December 4 to 5.

Following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's invitation, Vladimir Putin will pay a State visit to the nation for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit. Russian authorities in a statement said, "the two leaders will "discuss all aspects" of Russian-Indian ties and also touch on regional and international issues."

In a press release, Ministry of External Affairs stated, "During the visit, President Putin will hold talks with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. Hon'ble Rashtrapatiji will also receive President Putin and host a banquet in his honour.

Suggesting that the upcoming visit aims to bolster ties between the two nations, the press release adds, The forthcoming State Visit will provide an opportunity for the leadership of India and Russia to review progress in bilateral relations, set the vision for strengthening the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership and exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest.

Delay in delivery of S-400 air defence system Notably, delayed delivery of S-400 air defence system from Russia due to supply chain issues has raised concern. In the wake of ongoing conflicts worldwide, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh while addressing ANI's National Security Summit on Friday asserted that the government is looking to introduce new rules, including foreclosing any deal if deliveries are not made within a year.

Also Read | Putin warns Ukraine could lose more territory if Trump peace plan is refused

It is important to note that the S-400 were one of the air defence systems that were successfully deployed to bring down various Pakistani planes during Operation Sindoor. As per ANI report, India is planning to purchase a large number of missiles worth nearly 10,000 crore from Russia.

Termed as a game-changer by the Indian Air Force, the S-400 air defence system brought down one spy plane and five to six Pakistani fighter aircrafts at a distance of over 300 Km deep inside Pakistan territory during the four-day conflict.

Ukraine war peace plan This comes a day after Vladimir Putin responded to US President Donald Trumps proposals for ending the war in Ukraine. Asserting that the peace plan draft could be the basis for future agreements, he said, In general, we agree that this can form the basis for future agreements, on Thursday during a news conference in Kyrgyzstan following the Collective Security Treaty Organization summit.
When two American black-box specialists landed in New Delhi in late June, urgent messages arrived on their phones.

Dont go with the Indians, their colleagues told them.

Earlier that day, Indian authorities had told their American counterparts of a new plan to unlock the mysteries behind the first deadly crash involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

They wanted the U.S. technical experts to take a late-night flight on a military plane and then drive to a remote area. At an aerospace companys lab there, the experts were supposed to analyze flight-data and cockpit voice recorders pulled from the wreckage of the Air India jet that crashed nearly two weeks prior, killing all but one of the 242 on board.

But that plan for the recorderscommonly called the black boxesworried Jennifer Homendy, a top U.S. transportation official. She and other American officials were concerned about the safety of U.S. personnel and equipment being taken to a remote location amid State Department security warnings about terrorism and military conflicts in the region.

The National Transportation Safety Board chairwoman made a flurry of calls, including to Sean Duffy, President Trumps transportation secretary, as well as the chief executives of Boeing and engine-maker GE Aerospace.

At her request, the State Department sent embassy officials to intercept the NTSB recorder specialists at the airport, and the Americans stayed in Delhi.

The previously unreported episode marked a high point of tension between Indian government officials, who are leading the probe into the June 12 crash, and the American experts assisting them. The investigation has been marked by points of tension, suspicion and poor communication between senior officials of the two nations, according to interviews with more than a dozen people familiar with the probe and internal documents.

In June, in the crucial early days of the investigation, Homendy complained about delays in downloading data from the Air India flight and insisted Indian officials extract information from the Air India black boxes at their facility in Delhi or at the NTSBs lab in Washington, according to the draft of an unsent letter from Homendy to Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, Indias minister of civil aviation, reviewed by The Wall Street Journal.

I urge you to give our team the best chance of success at helping your government understand what occurred on Air India Flight 171 and prevent it from happening againour only goal," she wrote.

Instead of sending the letter, she wound up making the same points in phone calls and also threatened to pull American support for the probe, according to people familiar with the matter. Indian officials relented and agreed to download the black-box data in Delhi instead of the remote lab.

The friction has been fed by each countrys high stakes in the investigation, which is continuing and could take a year or more. The private view among many American government and industry officials is that the evidence so far points to Air India Flight 171s captain, Sumeet Sabharwal, who died in the event, having deliberately crashed the plane.

While some are optimistic Indian authorities will conduct a thorough and transparent probe, others said they worried the Indian government wouldnt accept such a scenario, or would instead raise the prospect of aircraft or engine problems being major factors, as some countries have with other suspected pilot suicides that result in mass death.

Some Indian observers, meanwhile, have faulted the West for emphasizing pilot moves, whether accidental or intentional, and overlooking potential flaws in the American-made planes. Seven years ago, Boeing pointed to pilot and maintenance slip-ups while playing down problems with a faulty flight-control system in deadly crashes of its 737 MAX jets in Indonesia and Ethiopia. Accident investigators later determined the design flaws in the jet played major roles in the crashes, leading to a global grounding of the MAX fleet, as well as a federal criminal investigation, congressional probes and billions of dollars in costs for Boeing.

The Dreamliner, the model in the recent crash, is one of Boeings most successful products, giving it an edge over its European rival Airbus in the market for wide-body jets. The jets are popular among the worlds airlines and are commonly used on international, long-haul flights.

An association of Indian pilots called for a review of electrical systems on Boeing planes and the grounding of 787s operating in the country after an emergency power system deployed in early October on another Air India Dreamliner. The same system had deployed on the June flight that crashed. Indias aviation regulator asked Boeing for more information about unexpected deployments of the device.

Push for data

Air India Flight 171 crashed shortly after takeoff from an airport in the western Indian city of Ahmedabad. The plane appeared to lose thrust before plummeting into a hostel for medical students. In all, 260 people died, including 19 on the ground.

While Indian officials are leading the crash probe, the NTSB has played a supporting role under international protocols because the jet and its engines were manufactured in the U.S. and American regulators certified it for passenger service. The U.S. agency led a team of investigators and technical experts that included representatives from the Federal Aviation Administration, Boeing and GE Aerospace.

But friction quickly surfaced after the first Americans arrived in Ahmedabad on June 15. Inside a government building at the airport, G.V.G. Yugandhar, chief of Indias Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau, wanted the Americans to know Indian authorities were capable of handling the complex probe. Yugandhar said India was a proud country and touted its new lab for reading black boxes in Delhi.

Were not a Third World country," Yugandhar told them, according to people familiar with his remarks. We can do anything you all can do. We have the same capabilities."

At the crash site, Indian authorities initially wouldnt let American investigators take their own photos of the wreckage, according to people familiar with the matter. They also moved some of the wreckage before U.S. investigators could examine it.

The Indian investigators also were proceeding with certain aspects of the probe in sequence, rather than concurrently.

The Americans thought the Indians werent prioritizing downloading and analyzing the black-box information. U.S. investigators thought that was the most important to exposing a broader safety threat, if one were to exist. The data could reveal the need for fast action, up to potentially grounding the Dreamliner fleet. In 2013, the FAA had halted flights of Dreamliners for about three months after a pair of battery fires.

A person familiar with Indias investigation process disputed that, and said officials pursued various aspects of the investigation simultaneously.

In the U.S., FAA and airline officials grew frustrated with the slow pace of information emerging from the investigation. Were champing at the bit to get the data," one FAA official in Washington said at the time, as days stretched on after the crash without a black-box readout.

An analysis of the planes flight-data and cockpit-voice recorders was needed for investigators to determine why the engines appeared to lose thrust quickly after takeoff. When Indian investigators showed their U.S. counterparts the accident planes throttle assembly, the fuel-cutoff switches were in the run position, indicating the jets engines were getting fuel at the time of impact. Switches can move on impact, so investigators would need to check their position as reflected in the flight data.

Homendy attempted to reach out to her counterpart, Yugandhar, for updates on the black boxes, but her attempt went unanswered, according to people familiar with the matter. The NTSB also tried to set up a virtual meeting between Yugandhar and a U.S. safety official, but Yugandhar didnt log on.

Indian authorities released little public information and limited access to the materials. False information, some apparently generated with artificial intelligence, filled the void online.

Theories swirled among aviation experts about what might have led to the crash. Why did both the 787s engines simultaneously lose thrust right after takeoff? Could fuel have been contaminated? Did computer systems in the highly automated wide-body jet somehow malfunction?

At one Western airline, officials sought to re-create the accident in a simulator but couldnt. Was it some weird electric quirk we didnt know of?" said a person familiar with the airlines tests. After seeing no other explanation, the person said, the officials wondered whether the Air India crew might have simply shut off the engines shortly after takeoff.

U.S. experts

The NTSB team in Ahmedabad relocated to Delhi in anticipation of helping the Indian authorities download flight and cockpit-voice data from the 787s black boxes. Indian officials had requested the NTSB provide more than 30 pieces of specialized equipment they needed to extract the data, according to Homendys draft letter, which was dated June 24.

Then came the sudden plan to relocate to the small town of Korwa. Once NTSB officials told Homendy of the plan to get on the military plane around midnight, the chairwoman had a blunt message: Dont get on it." She told her team to have Yugandhar call her directly, which he did, according to people familiar with the call.

Indian officials believed the Korwa facility had more capabilities, and they expressed concern that the Delhi facility would attract media attention. Homendy offered Washington as a location, assuring them reporters wouldnt be inside the NTSBs lab there, according to the people.

She eventually delivered an ultimatum: If the Indians dont decide between Delhi and Washington as a location within 48 hours, she would withdraw American support from the investigation.

The Indian AAIB, the investigation bureau, soon decided to download the black boxes, using the special equipment from the NTSB, at its lab in Delhi. It was a facility that opened in April to fanfare, a move aimed at helping the countrys fast-growing aviation sector to maintain safe operations.

The data showed someone in the cockpit moved the switches that cut off the engines fuel supply.

The data also showed that Sabharwal, the captain, didnt pull back on the yoke in the final moments of the accident, according to people familiar with the matter and part of an investigative document reviewed by the Journal. The first officer, Clive Kunder, who was the pilot directly responsible for flying, did pull up at the end.

Days went by after the flight recorder download, further fueling frustrations among American government and industry officials until the AAIB released its preliminary report on July 11.

Indian authorities said in the report that one pilot asked the other why he moved the engine-cutoff switches, while the other pilot denied doing so. The report didnt identify which pilot said what, or determine whether moving the switches was accidental or intentional.

The switches were moved one second after the other, and were switched back to run" about 10 seconds later, the report said.

These 10 seconds will be argued, debated, studied, and scrutinized for decades to come," Patrick Lusch, the FAAs lead investigator in the probe, said in a LinkedIn comment that has since been deleted.

U.S. government and industry officials believe the captain likely moved the switches to cut off fuel supply, the Journal has reported. The captain remained calm while the first officer seemed to panic, exclaiming in the final moments, Oh s!" according to people familiar with an air-traffic control recording.

Safety Matters Foundation, an aviation-focused nonprofit, filed a lawsuit in September asking Indias Supreme Court to set up an independently monitored probe of the crash, according to Pranav Sachdeva, lawyer for the group.

The organization said it was concerned that the preliminary report from Indian authorities prematurely directed responsibility toward Sabharwal, the captain, and would deter deeper investigation of the airline and aircraft manufacturer.

Sabharwals father, along with the Federation of Indian Pilots, a national body, also filed a suit to establish court oversight of the investigation. Speculative remarks" about the pilot amount to character assassination of a pilot with an unblemished 30-year career," the pilots father separately wrote in a letter to the federation of pilots, asking for help in protecting his sons reputation.

Focus on pilot

The crash increasingly appeared to be the latest in a grim string of crashes caused by pilot suicide" and mass murder, according to American government and industry officials.

Such crashes have accounted for a stubbornly high share of commercial aviation fatalities over the past three decades, as flying has become increasingly safe. Advances in automated cockpit features have largely stamped out certain types of crashes. But government and industry officials say there is limited ability to engineer out nefarious intent. Some safety advocates say requiring cockpit cameras would help resolve ambiguity. There are also calls to address pilots mental health.

Findings of pilot suicide have been controversial and the subject of disagreement between American investigators and other countries. In the case of EgyptAir Flight 990 in 1999, U.S. investigators concluded intentional acts by a pilot caused the crash, while Egypt disputed those findings. In other cases in which no official conclusions have been reached, such as China Eastern Airlines Flight 5735, which crashed in China in 2022, U.S. officials suspect a pilot deliberately crashed the plane.

After Indias preliminary report was released, Yugandhar and Homendy both released statements in mid-July criticizing media coverage as premature and speculative before the Indians completed their investigation. The AAIB chief said it wasnt the time to create public anxiety or angst" regarding the safety of the Indian aviation industry.

Boeing representatives quietly brought sample fuel-cutoff switches to the FAAs headquarters in Washington. A goal was to demonstrate how the switches are difficult to move accidentally, according to people familiar with the matter.

Soon after, U.S. regulators began making clear they didnt have concerns about a technical problem with the global Dreamliner fleet, indicating there was no apparent design or manufacturing flaw to fix. The FAA, Boeing and GE Aerospace arent actively working on any related fixes for the 787 or its engines, people familiar with the matter said.

Bryan Bedford, the FAAs administrator, said in late July the Air India probe indicated no broader problem with the 787 fleet. We feel very comfortable that this isnt an issue with inadvertent manipulation of fuel control," he said.

Write to Andrew Tangel at andrew.tangel@wsj.com
As Delhi continues to gasp under hazardous air pollution levels, author and entrepreneur Suhel Seth and former IPS officer Kiran Bedi have publicly expressed their frustration over the governments inaction.

Seth, who has been vocal about the worsening air quality, posted a sharp critique on X (formerly Twitter), saying authorities are turning a blind eye to the crisis.

The truth is no one gives a monkeys toss about pollution. From the Chief Justice to the Chief Minister. Its strange. They can see but they dont want to act. What a dystopian world we live in, he wrote, as the national capital once again recorded alarming AQI figures this week.

Meanwhile, Kiran Bedis timeline has turned into a constant reminder of Delhis choking air. The former Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry has been sharing multiple posts tagged as Feedback post, urging authorities to take urgent measures.

In her latest post, shared about 11 hours ago, she reposted a Down To Earth cartoon showing two patients in a hospital  one suffering from toxic air exposure and another beaten up for simply demanding clean air. She captioned it, Another feed, with the hashtag pollution.

Also Read | Air India Delhi-Ahmedabad flight AI2939 returns shortly after takeoff

Despite a slight dip in pollution levels earlier this week, Delhi woke up to an AQI of 385  categorised as very poor. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has lifted GRAP III restrictions across Delhi-NCR, but residents are still coping with severe breathing conditions as the air quality fluctuates between very poor and severe.

Bedi has also called upon the Prime Ministers Office (PMO) to intervene with proactive and stronger solutions. In a post dated November 27, she described the situation as agonising and depressing.

Also Read | Manu Jain calls Delhi pollution disturbing, says he took an early flight home

I live in Indirapuram, and the AQI is 587 right now. I have not sent my child to school in spite of the teachers messages. I have written a firm email to the principal. Whatever is in my area of control, I will do that, one of her posts read, highlighting how families are making difficult choices to protect their children.

Earlier, on November 25, she shared that toxic air has severely impacted her own health  echoing the concerns of millions across Delhi-NCR who remain confined indoors.
US federal agencies arrested several foreign spouses of American citizens during regular Green Card interviews at US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offices in several cities, according to The New York Times. An attorney also confirmed that his client was detained and handcuffed during a Green Card interview.

The development comes amid the Trump administration's move to conduct a "full-scale, rigorous reexamination" of all Green Card applications for immigrants from "a country of concern" in the wake of the shooting of two National Guard members in Washington, DC, reportedly by an Afghan national.

Several Green Card applicants impacted In San Diego alone, immigration lawyers in the area estimate that dozens of foreign-born spouses have been arrested since 12 November, when the new tactic first appeared, the report said, citing Andrew Nietor, an immigration lawyer.

Nietor, a former chair of the San Diego chapter of the American Immigration Lawyers Association, stated that the estimate was derived from members discussions about their clients. The precise number of detained spouses remains unknown, as many couples attend routine interviews without legal representatives, who would otherwise notify colleagues. The government has not released an official count of these detentions.

Why are foreign spouses being arrested? Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents notified the applicants that they had overstayed their permitted period for tourism or business visas. An arrest warrant, viewed by the publication, noted there is probable cause to believe that the named spouse is removable from the United States.

Matthew J Tragesser, an agency spokesman, told the NYT, highlighting that the arrests were generally done by ICE.

Apprehensions at US Citizenship and Immigration Services offices may occur if individuals are identified as having outstanding warrants; being subject to court-issued removal orders; or having committed fraud, crimes or other violations of immigration law while in the United States, Tragesser said.

However, the couples and their lawyers claimed they had followed the required steps, which include submitting extensive paperwork and paying the necessary fees. The foreign spouses had been fingerprinted and undergone medical examinations. None possessed criminal records. None had entered the country unlawfully. They had already been given employment authorisation, the report said.
A day after two National Guard members were shot near the White House in Washington, killing one, a new chilling photo and video has emerged showing the moment when the suspect ran behind them to attack.

Specialist Sarah Beckstrom (20) and Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe (24) were critically injured in the shooting. They both underwent surgery. However, Sarah succumbed to injuries.

They both had been sworn in less than 24 hours before they were shot by suspect Rahmanullah Lakanwal (29), an Afghan national.

Also Read | How a Guardsman took down shooter Rahmanullah Lakanwal with just a pocket knife

A lone gunman, who entered the US in 2021 through Operation Allies Welcome, opened fire without provocation, ambush style, armed with a 357 Smith and Wesson revolver.

In the video that has gone viral, the Guard members can be seen opening fire on the suspect, while seeking cover, moments after he ambushed them.

The captured image and the video shot on a smartphone  obtained by the Wall Street Journal  provides the first known visuals of the suspect.

We are devastated to confirm the death of our own, Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, who was shot in the line of duty near the Farragut Square Metro Station Wednesday, said the West Virginia guard in a post on X.

Also Read | Full list of crackdowns Trump has announced since White House shooting

Meanwhile, speaking to Fox & Friends, US Attorney Jeanine Pirro said the charges against Rahmanullah Lakanwal now include one count of first-degree murder.

She (Sarah) volunteered, and she ended up being shot, ambush style, on the cold streets of Washington DC, by an individual who will now be charged with murder in the first degree. There are certainly many more charges to come, but we are upgrading the initial charges of assault to murder in the first degree, Pirro said.

Sarah Beckstrom (20) of Webster Springs, was assigned to the 863rd Military Police Company, 111th Engineer Brigade. She entered service on June 26, 2023. She has been on Task Force orders in the district since the beginning of the mission in August of this year.
Minnesota governor Tim Walz, who has been constantly attacked by Donald Trump over the Somali community in the state, hit back at US President on Friday over his seriously retarded remark.

In a post on X, Trump said that the refugee burden is the leading cause of social dysfunction in America.

He further added that hundreds of thousands of refugees from Somalia are completely taking over the once great State of Minnesota.

Somalian gangs are roving the streets looking for prey as our wonderful people stay locked in their apartments and houses hoping against hope that they will be left alone. The seriously retarded Governor of Minnesota, Tim Walz, does nothing, either through fear, incompetence, or both, while the worst.

Following that, responding to a remark in a Thanskgiving message, Walz said, Release the MRI results.

A few weeks ago, Trump, who had previously disclosed he underwent an MRI exam at Walter Reed Medical Center on October 10, said that he received a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) exam as part of his recent physical, calling the scan "very standard."

"Getting an MRI is very standard. What, you think I shouldn't have it? Other people get it ... I had an MRI. The doctor said it was the best result he has ever seen as a doctor," Trump said.

Last week, Trump also pledge to terminate temporary legal protections for Somalis living in Minnesota.

In a Truth Social post, Trump said he would immediately strip Somali residents in Minnesota of Temporary Protected Status (TPS), a legal safeguard against deportation for immigrants from certain countries.

The announcement drew immediate pushback from some state leaders and immigration experts.

Also Read | Trump ends temporary deportation protections for Somalis in Minnesota

Heidi Altman, vice president of policy at the National Immigration Law Center said that theres no legal mechanism that allows the president to terminate protected status for a particular community or state that he has beef with.

According to the Congressional record, around 705 Somali individuals have approved TPS applications as of March 31, and "DHS estimated that approximately 4,300 individuals may become newly eligible for TPS" were it to be extended.

TPS was initially granted to Somalis in 1991, and most recently extended in July 2024 "due to conditions in Somalia that prevent individuals from safely returning," according to the Department of Homeland Security.
Amid US President Donald Trump pledging to permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries after shooting near White House, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Friday said that they are working to cut off federal benefits to illegal aliens.

At trump's direction, we are working to cut off federal benefits to illegal aliens and preserve them for US citizens, Bessent said in a post on X.

He further added, Treasury announced that it will issue proposed regulations clarifying that the refunded portions of certain individual income tax benefits are no longer available to illegal and other non-qualified aliens, covering the Earned Income Tax Credit, the Additional Child Tax Credit, the American Opportunity Tax Credit, and the Savers Match Credit.

The development comes as two National Guards were shot by an Afghan national in Washington DC on Wednesday, killing one of them.

Earlier on Thursday, Trump said he would suspend migration from what he called third world countries and also threatened to reverse 'millions of admissions granted under his predecessor Joe Biden, marked a new escalation in the anti-migration stance.

"I will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the US system to fully recover," Trump wrote on social media.

Also Read | Chilling photo shows exact moment of shooting near White House

He linked the shooting and his decision to send hundreds of National Guard troops to the city.

"If they weren't effective, you probably wouldn't have had this done," Trump said. "Maybe this man was upset because he couldn't practice crime."

Joseph Edlow, Trump's director of US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), said that he had ordered a full-scale, rigorous reexamination of every Green Card for every alien from every country of concern.

Also Read | Full list of crackdowns Trump has announced since White House shooting
Escalating attacks on his predecessor, US President Donald Trump on Saturday announced that documents signed by former President Joe Biden with the Autopen are terminated.

Trump made the declaration in a post on X.

Any document signed by Sleepy Joe Biden with the Autopen, which was approximately 92% of them, is hereby terminated, and of no further force or effect.

The President added that the autopen is not allowed to be used if approval is not specifically given by the President of the United States.

I am hereby cancelling all Executive Orders, and anything else that was not directly signed by Crooked Joe Biden, because the people who operated the Autopen did so illegally. said the President.

Trump stated that Joe Biden was not involved in the Autopen process and, if he says he was, he will be brought up on charges of perjury.

The announcement from Trump comes a day after shooting near the White House in Washington by 29-year-old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal in which two National Guards were shot, killing one.

Specialist Sarah Beckstrom and Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe (24) were critically injured in the shooting. They both underwent surgery. However, Sarah succumbed to injuries.

On Friday, Trump said that he will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the US system to fully recover, terminate all of the millions of Biden illegal admissions, including those signed by Sleepy Joe Bidens Autopen, and remove anyone who is not a net asset to the United States.

He also warned of ending all Federal benefits and subsidies to non-citizens of America.

The President said that he will denaturalise migrants who undermine domestic tranquility, and deport any Foreign National who is a public charge, security risk, or non-compatible with Western Civilization.
US President Donald Trump on Thursday said his administration will work to permanently pause migration from all "Third World countries" to give the US system time to fully recover, according to Reuters. Donald Trump also said that the US will end all federal benefits and subsidies to non-citizens in the country. The crackdown on the Third World countries comes a day after two National Guard members were shot by an Afghan national close to the White House.

In June 2025, the Trump administration released guidance limiting entry to the United States for citizens of 19 nations, citing national security concerns. While announcing a permanent pause on all third-world countries, Donald Trump did not specify which nations will be covered by the order. These US countries of concern include:

(a) Afghanistan

(b) Burma

(c) Chad

(d) Republic of the Congo

(e) Equatorial Guinea

(f) Eritrea

(g) Haiti

(h) Iran

(i) Libya

(j) Somalia

(k) Sudan

(l) Yemen

(m) Burundi

(n) Cuba

(o) Laos

(p) Sierra Leone

(q) Togo

(r) Turkmenistan

(s) Venezuela

What did Donald Trump say? In a post on his social media Truth Social, Donald Trump said, I will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the U.S. system to fully recover.

He warned that he would overturn the "millions" of admissions approved under Joe Biden's administration, and would remove anyone who is not a net asset to the United States.

Trump also said he planned to expel any foreign national considered a security threat or non-compatible with Western Civilization.

His furious message, which ended with wishing Americans a happy Thanksgiving, signalled a further intensification of the anti-migrant agenda in his second term, defined by a large-scale deportation drive.

View full Image Truth Social post

These goals will be pursued with the aim of achieving a major reduction in illegal and disruptive populations. Only REVERSE MIGRATION can fully cure this situation, he said.

Moreover, Afghanistan is classified by the United Nations as one of the Least Developed Countries (LDCs).

UN LDCs by region: According to the United Nations, these are the countries that come under its list of Least Developed Countries (LDCs) that Trump calls the third world countries. They include:

Africa (32): Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Lesotho, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Togo, Uganda, United Republic of Tanzania and Zambia

Asia (8): Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Lao Peoples Democratic Republic, Myanmar, Nepal, Timor-Leste and Yemen

Caribbean (1): Haiti

Pacific (3): Kiribati, Solomon Islands and Tuvalu

Operation Allies Welcome Authorities said the man accused of shooting two National Guard members in Washington is among roughly 76,000 Afghans brought to the United States after the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan as the Taliban took control, according to AP.

Operation Allies Welcome, the programme responsible for their arrival, was launched following the 2021 decision to exit Afghanistan after two decades of American involvement and billions of dollars in assistance.

Biden, who carried out the withdrawal initiated by his predecessor Trump, said that the US had an obligation to offer safety to interpreters, translators, fighters, drivers, and others who stood against the Taliban. However, Trump and Republicans argued that the refugees did not undergo adequate screening, describing the resettlement as just as disorderly and poorly executed as the withdrawal itself.

Also Read | Trump administration reviewing all asylum cases approved under Biden, says DHS

Trumps executive order, issued shortly after he took office in January, suspended federal funding for resettlement agencies, making it more difficult for refugees to access essentials such as food and rent, and restricting the mostly faith-based organisations that assist them.

The president, who has referred to Afghanistan as a hellhole on earth", had already intended to re-examine every Afghan who entered the US through Operation Allies Welcome, and reaffirmed that intention following Wednesdays shooting.
US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on 27 November announced new vetting guidance for aliens from 19 high-risk countries after an Afghan national shot two National Guard Service members, killing one.

The statement notes that new guidance was issued, allowing for negative, country-specific factors to be considered when vetting aliens from 19 high-risk countries. This guidance follows the Trump administration's decision to suspend refugee resettlement from Afghanistan and to restrict the entry of Afghan nationals during its first year in office.

Also Read | New video shows White House shooter Lakanwal brandishing gun | Watch

What does the statement say? Blaming the incident on the Joe Biden administration, the statement read, This (vetting) includes an assessment of where they are coming from and why. Yesterdays horrific events make it abundantly clear that the Biden administration spent the last four years dismantling basic vetting and screening standards, prioritising the rapid resettlement of aliens from high-risk countries over the safety of American citizens."

It added, "The Trump administration takes the opposite approach. Effective immediately, I am issuing new policy guidance that authorizes USCIS officers to consider country-specific factors as significant negative factors when reviewing immigration requests. American lives come first.

My primary responsibility is to ensure that every alien is vetted and screened to the maximum degree possible, USCIS Director Joseph Edlow said in the statement.

The revised guidance, which takes into account country-specific factors like a nations capacity to issue secure identity documents, aims to enhance USCISs execution of President Trumps Presidential Proclamation (PP) 10949. This proclamation aims to restrict the entry of foreign nationals to safeguard the US from foreign terrorists and other security threats. The update will enable USCIS officers to more effectively assess whether an alien poses a risk to public safety and national security.

This policy guidance is effective immediately and applies to requests pending or filed on or after 27 November.

What happened on 26 November near White House A National Guard major, armed only with a pocket knife, intervened to stop gunman Rahmanullah Lakanwal, who had opened fire on two Guard members just blocks from the White House on Wednesday, 26 November, according to reports.

According to investigators, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan from Bellingham, Washington, reportedly travelled almost 3,000 miles across the country before carrying out the attack near the Farragut West Metro entrance around 2 pm at 17th and I Streets NW.

Also Read | US puts Afghan immigration requests on hold indefinitely

Which 19 countries are likely at risk? In June 2025, the Trump administration issued an advisory restricting the travel of foreign nationals from 19 countries to the US, highlighting national security risks. The countries are 

(a) Afghanistan

(b) Burma

(c) Chad

(d) Republic of the Congo

(e) Equatorial Guinea

(f) Eritrea

(g) Haiti

(h) Iran

(i) Libya

(j) Somalia

(k) Sudan

(l) Yemen

(m) Burundi

(n) Cuba

(o) Laos

(p) Sierra Leone

(q) Togo

(r) Turkmenistan
Following the shooting of two National Guard members by an Afghan national near the White House on Wednesday, the Trump administration announced it will carry out a thorough review of all Green Cards issued to immigrants from every country of concern.

Will new Green Card crackdown impact Indians? Indians living in the United States will not be impacted by this crackdown on Green Card holders, as India is not on the list of countries of concern. However, the Trump administration has not specifically named the countries which will be impacted by the latest stringent measures.

Trump administration's Green Card crackdown US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Director Joseph Edlow said he has ordered a comprehensive and thorough review of all Green Card applications from individuals from countries of concern, following a directive from US President Donald Trump.

In a post on X, Eldow said, At the direction of @POTUS, I have directed a full scale, rigorous reexamination of every Green Card for every alien from every country of concern."

Taking a dig at the Biden administration, he added, The protection of this country and of the American people remains paramount, and the American people will not bear the cost of the prior administrations reckless resettlement policies. American safety is non-negotiable.

Which are countries of concern? In a June 2025 order, the Trump administration issued directives limiting the entry of nationals from certain countries. The list includes: Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, the Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen, Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela.

White House shooting incident The latest Green Card crackdown comes after an Afghan national, identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, opened fire on two Guard members just blocks from the White House on Wednesday, 26 November, according to reports. One of them, 20-year-old Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, was killed, while 24-year-old US Air Force Staff Sgt Andrew Wolfe remains in critical condition, Reuters reported.

Donald Trump's action In response to the incident, Donald Trump on Thursday announced his administration will implement a permanent suspension of migration from all "Third World countries" to allow the US system sufficient time to recover fully. Trump also stated that the US will cease all federal benefits and subsidies to non-citizens within the country, according to the report.
Damascus on Friday accused Israel of a criminal attack after 13 people were killed in an Israeli raid in southern Syria.

Israel claimed that during an operation to detain suspects belonging to Jama'a Islamiya - a Lebanese Sunni Islamist, its troops came under fire in a village of Beit Jinn in which six soldiers were wounded and three of them were critically injured, reported Reuters.

The Israeli military further stated that the group had fired rockets at Israel from Lebanon during the Gaza war and accused them of involvement in terrorist plots.

Also Read | Trump peace plan under strain as fresh Gaza violence tests fragile ceasefire

The Israeli military also accused them of planting improvised explosive devices and "planning future attacks on Israel including rocket fire".

It termed the raid as part of routine operations in the area in recent months and alleged that the armed terrorists fired on its troops, and they responded with fire 'along with aerial assistance'.

Israel would not allow terrorism and terrorist elements to entrench themselves on our borders, said Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee.

He added that three people suspected of involvement in terrorist plots had been arrested on Friday.

Syria's foreign ministry said the Israeli attack killed more than 10 civilians including women and children, damaged property and forced residents to flee their homes.

Walid Akasha, a local official in Beit Jinn, denied there were any terrorist factions there.

"We're a peaceful, civilian population, farmers. We have a legitimate right to defend ourselves. We didn't attack them first - they came onto our land," Walid Akasha told Reuters by phone.

Akasha said seven people had been taken from the village in an earlier raid in June, since when they had received no news about them. The Israeli military didn't immediately respond to a request for comment on the account of the June arrests.
Ukraines deepening anti-corruption crisis intensified on Friday as President Zelensky announced the resignation of his powerful chief of staff, Andrii Yermak, only hours after anti-corruption investigators raided his residence in Kyiv. The dramatic developments strike at the heart of Zelenskys administration at a moment when the country faces mounting US pressure to sign a peace agreement nearly four years into Russias full-scale invasion.

Why did Yermak resign  and what triggered the searches? Ukraines National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAPO) confirmed that investigators were conducting investigative actions at the head of the office of the president of Ukraine, marking one of the most politically sensitive searches since the war began.

Around ten investigators were filmed entering the government quarter on Friday morning. Yermak, widely regarded as the second most powerful figure in Ukraine, confirmed the raid on his home within the presidential compound.

The investigators are facing no obstacles, he wrote on Telegram. They were given full access to the apartment, my lawyers are on site, interacting with law enforcement officers. From my side, I have full cooperation.

A spokesperson, Oleksii Tkachuk, said Yermak had not been served a notice of suspicion and had not been informed of the basis of the search. However, Zelensky later accepted his resignation, ending Yermaks four-year tenure as chief of staff.

Is the raid linked to Ukraines $100 million energy-sector scandal? NABU and SAPO are leading a sweeping investigation into an alleged $100 million corruption scheme involving top Ukrainian officials and Energoatom, the state nuclear energy generator. For weeks, the probe has dominated domestic news and shaken public confidence.

Investigators suspect Tymur Mindich, a former business associate of Zelensky from the Kvartal 95 television studio, of masterminding the scheme. Mindich fled Ukraine shortly before officers arrived at his Kyiv apartment to arrest him. Two government ministers have resigned amid the fallout.

NABU has collected more than 1,000 hours of secret recordings, some published by the media. In one recording, a suspect laments the construction of defensive structures for power plants, saying it was a pity because the money could be stolen instead.

Officials have not confirmed that Fridays searches of Yermaks home are directly linked to the energy probe. NABU spokesperson Anton Tatarnikov declined to comment, citing legal constraints.

Why is the timing so politically sensitive? The scandal resurfaces at a crucial diplomatic moment. Earlier this month, former US President Donald Trump released a 28-point pro-Russian peace plan, reshaping geopolitical pressure on Kyiv. Ukraine had been lobbying the White House with its own 19-point counterproposal, with Yermak leading negotiations in Geneva alongside US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

The resignation of Zelenskys chief negotiator risks complicating Ukraines diplomatic outreach just as Washington intensifies demands for a settlement.

Has Yermak faced scrutiny before? Yes. Yermak has long been viewed as Zelenskys closest confidant and political gatekeeper. He first met Zelensky more than 15 years ago and rose to become a central figure in Ukraines foreign policy apparatus, accompanying the president on every international trip since Russias 2022 invasion.

Several individuals linked to Yermak have faced investigations:

Former deputies Oleh Tatarov and Rostyslav Shurma left government in 2024 after financial wrongdoing inquiries.

Another deputy, Andrii Smyrnov, has been investigated for bribes but remains in office.

Although Yermak himself has not been accused of wrongdoing, lawmakers from Zelenskys own party have recently argued he should take responsibility to restore public trust  warning the party could split if Zelensky refused to act.

What does this mean for Zelenskys government? The scandal has triggered political turmoil at a time when Zelensky urgently needs Western unity and financial support. The European Commission, through spokesperson Guillaume Mercier, said it was monitoring the developments closely and that the searches showed Ukraines anti-corruption bodies were working, emphasising that ending high-level graft is essential for EU accession.

Also Read | Putin warns Ukraine could lose more territory if Trump peace plan is refused

Earlier this month, Zelensky faced a rebellion from his partys MPs, who urged a leadership overhaul after damaging details of the energy probe emerged.

On Friday, Zelensky called for political calm, urging Ukrainians to stop the political games and remain united given the external pressure on Kyiv to reach a settlement with Russia.

What happens next? NABU has signalled that more information will be released in due course. Investigators are continuing searches across Kyiv, raising speculation that further resignations or detentions may follow.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday expressed his heartfelt condolences to the people of Sri Lanka, who have lost loved ones due to Cyclone Ditwah.

In a gesture of solidarity, India has dispatched relief materials and vital Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) support under Operation Sagar Bandhu.

In a post on X, PM Modi said, My heartfelt condolences to the people of Sri Lanka who have lost their loved ones due to Cyclone Ditwah. I pray for the safety, comfort and swift recovery of all affected families. In solidarity with our closest maritime neighbour, India has urgently dispatched relief materials and vital HADR support under Operation Sagar Bandhu. We stand ready to provide more aid and assistance as the situation evolves. Guided by India's Neighbourhood First policy and Vision MAHASAGAR, India continues to stand firmly with Sri Lanka in its hour of need.

Meanwhile, EAM Jaishankar wrote in a post on X, Operation Sagar Bandhu commences. INS Vikrant and INS Udaygiri hand over relief material at Colombo. Further steps are underway.

Sri Lanka has closed government offices and schools as the death toll from floods and landslides across the country has risen to 56, with more than 600 houses damaged, according to officials, Al Jazeera reported.

What is Operation Sagar Bandhu? What is the strategic significance? New Delhi launched Operation Sagar Bandhu, a Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operation to assist Sri Lanka in its hour of crisis, and the first tranche of relief materials was handed over after the consignments were transported by the Indian Navy's aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and frontline ship INS Udaigiri.

It underscores India's Neighbourhood First policy and commitment to regional maritime solidarity in the Indian Ocean.

Such operations highlight India's growing role in regional disaster response, building on past HADR missions like Operation Samudra Maitri (for Cyclone Idai in 2019). It strengthens bilateral ties with Sri Lanka while underscoring India's maritime capabilities through assets like INS Vikrant.

Modi announced the MAHASAGAR or Mutual And Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions vision for India's engagement with the Global South during his visit to Mauritius in March.

The event is being hosted to mark the Sri Lanka Navy's 75th anniversary. It features the participation of naval ships from several countries.

Sri Lankan defence officials said INS Vikrant was formally requested for use of its aircraft for ongoing rescue and relief operations for the cyclone relief operations.

Cyclone Ditwah in Sri Lanka At least 56 people have been killed in Sri Lanka due to floods and landslides.

Over 43,900 people from 12,313 families have been hit by the extreme weather conditions, according to Sri Lankan authorities.

Sri Lanka deployed its military on Friday for relief and rescue operations as the death toll from floods and landslides across the island climbed to 56, with 21 people still reported missing, AFP reported.

According to the Disaster Management Centre (DMC), helicopters, navy boats, and thousands of troops are being used to evacuate stranded villagers in various parts of the country.

Sri Lanka is in its northeast monsoon season, but rainfall has intensified because of Cyclone Ditwah, the DMC said.

Sri Lanka depends on seasonal monsoon rains for irrigation and hydroelectricity, but experts have warned that the country faces more frequent floods due to climate change.

The government has suspended final-year school examinations nationwide for two days because of the weather, while civil servants were given a day off.

View full Image A man stands inside his house partially submerged in floodwaters after heavy rainfall in Kaduwela on the outskirts of Colombo on November 28, 2025. Sri Lanka deployed the military for relief and rescue operations on November 28 as the death toll from floods and landslides across the island rose to 56, with another 21 people missing. (Photo by Ishara S. KODIKARA / AFP) ( AFP )

Due to heavy rains, most reservoirs and rivers have overflowed, blocking roads. Authorities stopped passenger trains and closed roads in many parts of the country after rocks, mud and trees fell on roads and railway tracks, which were also flooded in some areas.
US President Donald Trump sharply escalated his administrations immigration agenda on Thursday, announcing that he would permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries following the killing of a National Guard member in an attack near the White House. The statement, delivered on Truth Social, came after investigators said the suspect  an Afghan national  had entered the United States in 2021 under a resettlement programme. Yet Trump offered no definition, no criteria, and no list of countries, prompting immediate questions about what Third World means in contemporary policy terms  and who might be affected.

On his social media platform, Donald Trump declared:

I will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the US system to fully recover, terminate all of the millions of Biden illegal admissions, including those signed by Sleepy Joe Bidens autopen, and remove anyone who is not a net asset to the United States.

Also Read | Donald Trump claims only he can prevent Third World War

Donald Trump added that he would end federal benefits for non-citizens", denaturalize migrants who undermine domestic tranquility and deport anyone deemed a public charge, security threat, or non-compatible with Western civilization.

What did Third World originally mean? The term Third World was never designed as an economic label. As World Population Review explains, it was coined in 1952 by French historian Alfred Sauvy to describe countries that were not aligned with either of the dominant Cold War blocs.

Under this original three-world model:

First World: US-led democratic, capitalist bloc, NATO

Second World: Soviet-led Communist bloc

Third World: Non-aligned countries Under this geopolitical definition, even todays wealthy nations  including Sweden, Finland, Ireland and Switzerland  were technically Third World because they remained neutral. The term, therefore, had little to do with poverty or development.

How did the meaning of Third World change? After the end of the Cold War in the early 1990s, the term drifted into popular usage as shorthand for poor or underdeveloped countries, losing its original political meaning.

In modern discourse, Third World is widely used  though increasingly criticised  to refer to countries facing:

High poverty rates

Economic instability

Limited industrialisation

Weak social infrastructure

Environmental vulnerability This imprecise shift has generated confusion: the same country could be Third World under one definition and solidly high-income under another.

Are Third World countries same as UN-listed Least Developed Countries (LDCs)? No. The United Nations uses formal development classifications, not Cold War terminology.

The UN recognises 44 Least Developed Countries (LDCs), based on structural economic vulnerability and low income. These include:

Africa: 33 nations

Asia: 8 (including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmar)

Caribbean: Haiti

Pacific: 3 island states LDC status comes with special trade access, aid, and development concessions. Importantly, the UN does not use Third World at all.

Is India a Third World country? It depends entirely on which definition is applied  and Trump offered none.

Under the original Cold War definition, India was non-aligned and therefore historically counted as Third World.

Also Read | Third World War not beyond realm of possibility: UN General Assembly President

Under modern development metrics, India is classified as a developing country, not an LDC. It is not among the UNs 44 least-developed nations.

However, according to World Population Reviews 2025 classification using the Human Development Index, Indias HDI score of 0.685 places it on their list of Third World countries  a controversial rebranding that many scholars reject.

In other words:

By UN standards: India is not in the poorest category.

By Cold War logic: India was historically Third World.

By Trumps undefined terminology: Indias status remains unclear. Which countries would fall under Trumps proposed ban? Because Trump did not specify the criteria  political, economic, historical, or security-based  there is no authoritative list of countries his order might target.

If he refers to the Cold War definition, many prosperous Western nations would be affected.

Also Read | What a third world war would mean for investors

If he refers to the modern (and vague) Third World = poor definition, a substantial part of Asia, Africa, Latin America and the Pacific would fall under the category.

If Donald Trump intends to use UN LDC status, the list narrows to 44 countries  but Trump did not say so.

How Trumps statement could impact migration from South Asia? Trumps undefined use of the term Third World creates significant uncertainty for South Asian nations, many of which fall into broad developing country classifications that could easily be interpreted as part of the proposed migration pause.

Should the administration apply a wide economic definition, countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka could all face new restrictions on visas, family reunification, student mobility and employment pathways.
Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit India for two days starting 4 December to hold annual summit talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The discussions are expected to yield several significant outcomes, particularly in the defence sector, further reinforcing bilateral strategic ties.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Friday that the visit will help shape the vision for strengthening the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.

What's on the platter? The Kremlin said both sides are expected to adopt a joint statement and sign a "wide range of interdepartmental and business agreements" following the talks between the leaders.

PTI reported, citing sources, that ways to bolster two-way trade using local currencies, taking forward bilateral energy cooperation notwithstanding Western sanctions against Russia, further enhancing defence ties and the Ukraine conflict are likely to dominate the talks.

The two sides are also likely to focus on deepening cooperation in areas of civil nuclear energy.

At the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin will pay a State visit to India from December 4 to 5 for the 23rd India-Russia annual summit, the MEA said in a brief statement.

The forthcoming State visit will provide an opportunity for the leadership of India and Russia to review progress in bilateral relations, set the vision for strengthening the 'Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership' and exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest, the ministry stated.

President Droupadi Murmu will also receive Putin and host a banquet in his honour.

S-400 missile system According to PTI, citing sources familiar with Putin's trip to New Delhi, India is reportedly considering procuring additional batches of S-400 surface-to-air missile systems from Russia, as these weapons were found to be highly effective during Operation Sindoor.

The Russian S-400 Triumf system lived up to expectations during Operation Sindoor in terms of its attack capability as well as its survival, as Pakistan repeatedly targeted the system at Adampur and Bhuj air base using Chinese long-range weapons.

After the initial attack on 7 May, such was the fear of the S-400 system that Pakistan had to move all its air assets beyond 300 km from the Indian border, with hardly any aircraft getting airborne on 10 May. The S-400 long-range missiles not only took down a Pak ELINT aircraft 314 km away in Punjab, Pakistan, but also brought down Pakistani F-16 and JF-17 fighters up north. S-400 proved not only to be a powerful stand-off weapon but also served as a huge deterrent against Pakistan's air-borne offensive, according to a report by the Hindustan Times.

In October 2018, India signed a USD 5 billion deal with Russia to buy five units of the S-400 air defence missile systems, notwithstanding a warning by the US that going ahead with the contract may invite US sanctions under the provisions of Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA).

Three squadrons have already been delivered, and the remaining two are expected to be sent by the middle of next year.

Defence and energy There is also a possibility that India may hold talks with the Russian side on the possibility of buying at least two squadrons of the Su-57 fighter jets, though New Delhi has not made any final decision on the procurement.

In the energy sector, it is learnt that Russia has offered India additional discounts for its procurement of crude oil, PTI reported.

The offer came after the volume of India's purchase of Russian crude oil registered a decline in the last few weeks following the latest wave of US sanctions on two Russian oil producers.

The Kremlin said Putin's visit to India carries "significant importance" as it offers an opportunity to review the entire spectrum of the special and privileged strategic partnership -- from politics, trade and the economy to science, technology, and cultural and humanitarian cooperation.

The current international and regional issues will also feature prominently in the talks with the Indian delegation led by Prime Minister Modi, it said.

Last week, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said India and Russia are looking at firming up a number of agreements, initiatives and projects to add more substance to the ties during President Putin's visit to New Delhi.

A number of bilateral agreements, initiatives and projects are under discussion in various fields. We look forward to their finalization in the coming days, he had said during a meeting with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov in Moscow.

These will certainly add more substance and texture to our Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership, he said.

India and Russia have a mechanism under which India's prime minister and the Russian president hold a summit meeting annually to review the entire gamut of ties.

To date, 22 annual summit meetings have been held alternately in India and Russia.

Russian President Vladimir Putin last visited New Delhi in 2021, while Prime Minister Modi travelled to Moscow for the annual summit in July of last year.

India-Russia relations Rooted in historical ties dating back to the Soviet Union era, Indo-Russian relations continue to remain strong. Russia has long been a trusted partner for India and remains a key pillar of New Delhis foreign policy.

Economic ties between the two nations have grown significantly, with India becoming Russias second-largest trading partner following the Russia-Ukraine war. Bilateral trade surged 1.8 times compared to 2022, reaching USD 65 billion in 2023, making Russia India's fourth-largest trading partner, although trade imbalances remain a challenge.

Also Read | Trump admin's sanctions may leave 48 mn barrels of Russian oil stranded at sea

As key BRICS members, India and Russia continue to push for greater representation of emerging economies in global institutions like the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the United Nations (UN), and the World Bank. While Russia looks to deepen economic engagement with India to counter Western sanctions, India continues to maintain its strategic autonomy, balancing relations with the United States, Europe, and the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD) countries.

The partnership remains strategically important as global geopolitical tensions evolve. Factors such as the Russia-Ukraine war, Indo-Pacific security dynamics, and rising global protectionism under a potential Trump 2.0 influence their bilateral interactions.

(With inputs from PTI)
Valuing OpenAI at $500 billion, SoftBanks stake in the unicorn accounts for just over 20% of its net asset value, or NAV. But what if OpenAI is not worth that much? It would be a substantial hit to the Japanese conglomerate. In the September quarter, SoftBank reported its best earnings in three years, thanks to a $12.8 billion fair value gain from its OpenAI shares. That will have to be reversed if the startup cant maintain its current valuation at future funding rounds.
Apple has strong demand for iPhone 17 in the US and China to thank. A switch at the top could be taken as a win for Apples product differentiation over Samsungs pricing strategy. But the Korean firm has been losing market share to Chinese players beating it at its own game, so theres space enough for price players.
(Bloomberg) -- Peruvian President Jose Jeri said he is pushing ahead with plans to declare a state of emergency as migrants block the countrys southern border with Chile, from where undocumented foreigners are apparently fleeing ahead of a threatened crackdown on migration.

Our borders must be respected, Jeri said in an X post on Friday. An extraordinary Cabinet meeting is being convened to declare, as previously announced, a state of emergency and thus reinforce surveillance efforts with the Armed Forces.

Jeri added that immigration and police authorities will step up identity checks to ensure public safety, a move that follows rising political tensions as migrants leaving Chile for Peru prompt fears of a broader exodus.

According to Peruvian TV channel Canal N, dozens of undocumented migrants blocked the TacnaArica border crossing between Peru and Chile on Friday. The group demanded entry into Peru to travel on to their home countries, saying they were leaving Chile because of increasingly strict immigration policies, the outlet reported.

The disruption created lengthy traffic delays on both sides of the frontier.

Earlier on Friday, the regional governor of Tacna, Luis Torres, told RPP Noticias that there were between 70 and 80 Venezuelans stranded on the Chilean side of the border.

Theyve even blocked the road  theyre not letting cars, trucks, or anything pass, Torres said.

Chiles leading presidential candidate, arch-conservative Jose Antonio Kast, recently visited the countrys border area and warned undocumented migrants to leave or face expulsion, prompting some to head north. The shift quickly drew attention in Peru, where Jeri announced plans for a state of emergency, which allows the military to assume some police functions and suspends certain civil liberties such as the right to assembly.

As Chile heads into a Dec. 14 runoff between Kast and communist rival Jeannette Jara, the countrys migration policies have taken center stage. Outgoing President Gabriel Boric, a leftist, deployed troops along the northern border in 2023, especially at the porous remote frontier with Bolivia, to try to block clandestine entries.

Close to 337,000 undocumented migrants were in Chile in 2023, according to the latest estimate from the countrys migration agency. The largest share are from Venezuela.

Kast, the son of German immigrants, has pledged the toughest migration crackdown in the countrys history, including criminalizing irregular entry.

The migration crisis continues to escalate at the border with Peru, and President Boric has yet to respond, Kast posted on X early Friday. To the irregular immigrants in Chile, you have 103 days left to leave our homeland voluntarily.

--With assistance from Marcelo Rochabrun and Matthew Malinowski.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com
A Trinamool Congress delegation on Friday met with the full bench of the Election Commission of India here and alleged that around 40 SIR-related deaths had occurred in West Bengal so far, accusing the poll panel chief of having "blood on his hands".

The 10-member delegation, led by TMC Rajya Sabha leader Derek O'Brien, met the EC officials amid the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal.

The delegation consisted of Lok Sabha MPs Mahua Moitra, Satabdi Roy, Kalyan Banerjee, Pratima Mondal, Sajda Ahmed, and Rajya Sabha MPs Dola Sen, Mamata Thakur, Saket Gokhale, and Prakash Chik Barik.

Following their meeting, O'Brien addressed reporters, saying that the party had raised five questions, but Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar did not respond to any of them.

"We started the meeting by stating that the CEC has blood on his hands. We raised five questions. After this, Kalyan Banerjee, Mahua Moitra, and Mamata Thakur spoke and shared whatever they had to in about 40 minutes," O'Brien said.

"Then the CEC spoke uninterrupted for one hour. We were also not interrupted while we spoke, but we did not receive any answer to any of our five questions," he added.

Moitra said the delegation shared with the CEC a list of 40 people whose deaths, they alleged, were linked to the SIR exercise. The commission, however, dismissed it as mere allegations, the Lok Sabha MP claimed.

"We started with giving them a list of persons whose deaths are linked to the SIR process... The CEC said these are merely allegations..." Moitra said.

The TMC MPs asked the poll body about the claim that the exercise would weed out non-voters, and questioned why the exercise was not being undertaken in the Northeastern states, which also face the risk of infiltration as they share borders with Bangladesh and Myanmar.

They also questioned how the electoral roll, on which the last Lok Sabha election was held, suddenly became "unreliable". The MPs raised the issues of alleged deaths linked to the SIR process, and questioned who would take responsibility for it. Additionally, they expressed worries about the neutrality and effectiveness of the SIR process and noted a recent amendment in the rules by the poll panel that allows for the appointment of external Booth Level Agents (BLAs).

The TMC further informed the CEC that BJP leaders in West Bengal are claiming that one crore voters' names will be deleted. "The ECI has taken no cognisance of these comments, nor have they negated the dear mongering by the BJP," a TMC leader said.

A party source said they have compiled a list of 60 tragedies linked to SIR - 41 common people and 19 BLOs. Of the common individuals, 35 have died, and six are receiving medical attention. Among the 19 BLOs affected, four have died, while 15 are hospitalised or receiving care.
In a significant development amid an escalating leadership tussle in Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Friday invited his deputy DK Shivakumar for a breakfast meeting on Saturday, following clear instructions from the Congress high command to hold direct talks. The move comes as the party attempts to defuse intensifying internal tensions, even as senior leaders publicly insist that the Congress has the sense of timing to intervene at the right moment.

Why has Siddaramaiah invited Shivakumar now? Speaking to reporters, Siddaramaiah confirmed that the partys central leadership had asked both leaders to meet.

The party high command had called me and him (D K Shivkumar) and asked us to have a meeting. Hence, I have invited him for breakfast tomorrow. We will discuss when he comes.

Also Read | Did Siddaramaiah take a dig at Shivakumar amid CM seat tussle? See cryptic post

He was categorical that there had been no change in my stand, adding: Both of us have said that we will obey whatever the party high command says.

Siddaramaiah also reiterated that he would travel to Delhi if asked:

I will go to Delhi if the high command calls me.

What is Shivakumars stance on the leadership issue? Shivakumar, who serves as both deputy chief minister and state Congress president, struck a conciliatory yet cautious tone.

I dont want anything. I am not in a hurry. My party will take a decision.

He confirmed he may travel to the national capital ahead of the Parliaments winter session beginning 1 December:

I have a lot of work there I have to meet all Karnataka MPs because they need to take up some of our projects.

When asked whether he would meet the high command, he responded emphatically:

Delhi is our temple. All of us have to go. Without Delhi, nothing can happen. Congress is a party with a long history, and it has always guided us.

What is the Congress high commands calculation?

In comments that drew attention, minister Priyank Kharge, son of national Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, said the leadership in Delhi would intervene at the appropriate moment.

The high command has the sense of timing. It will take a call, keeping in mind the right time.

He urged the media and public not to speculate further, saying any decision would be announced only after an invitation from Delhi.

Is the leadership change promise real? Amid growing conjecture over whether Congress had promised a mid-term rotation of the chief ministership, Siddaramaiahs son Yathindra dismissed suggestions of internal rebellion.

There is no battle or skirmish Since there is no confusion amongst us, I feel the media is into perception creation.

On the reported two-and-a-half-year power-sharing formula, he said:

No one knows whether any promise was made about leadership change after two-and-half years So, it is not proper to speculate about it.

He added that discussions about MLAs preferences should remain inside the party.

How is the opposition BJP responding? The BJP has sharpened its attack ahead of the Belagavi legislature session. Former chief minister and MP Basavaraj Bommai hinted at possible parliamentary action:

There is time till December 8. If such a situation arises, the occasion to move a no-confidence motion may come.
SIR in Bengal: A 10-member delegation of Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress (TMC) MPs met Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar on Friday, sharply challenging the rationale, neutrality and execution of the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal. The party alleged that the process has turned punitive, disproportionately targets Bengalis, and has already resulted in deaths of several Booth Level Officers (BLOs), prompting the delegation to accuse the Election Commission of India (ECI) of having blood on their hands.

TMC MP Derek OBrien said after the meeting, 10 MPs from the All India Trinamool Congress met with the Chief Election Commissioner Mr Kumar and his team. We first handed over to him a list of almost 40 dead because of the SIR process. We started the meeting by telling him that Mr Kumar and the Election Commission of India have blood on their hands.

Other TMC MPs present included Dola Sena, Saket Gokhale, Mamata Thakur and Mahua Moitra.

Is the SIR intended to verify voters  or to question Bengalis identity? TMC's memorandum questioned why West Bengal alone was facing an extensive SIR, while other border states were exempt.

The delegation stated: The SIR's real purpose now feels deeply questionable. Is it meant to verify voters, or to cast doubt on the very identity of Bengalis? If infiltration is the issue, why are states like Tripura, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Manipur bordering Bangladesh and Myanmar left out of the process?"

"Even in Assam, you failed to institute the SIR, instead choosing an eyewash by the name of Special Revision. Only Bengal is being singled out. So we ask again: Was the SIR meant to protect the voter list or to quietly push Bengalis out of it? the TMC questioned.

The Election Commission is currently conducting the SIR across a wide set of states and Union Territories, including West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu, as well as the Union Territories of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep and Puducherry.

If the electoral rolls are unreliable, why were they used for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls? The TMC further pointed out that the same electoral rolls currently under scrutiny were relied upon during major national and state elections in the past year.

The memorandum asks:

The same electoral rolls that the ECI now questions were good enough to elect the country's Lok Sabha just last year. Three major Assembly Elections have taken place since. Families stood in long queues believing their democratic rights were protected. How did those rolls suddenly become unreliable within a year? And if the rolls really are unreliable then why not dissolve the Lok Sabha that was elected by these unreliable voters?

Also Read | Mamata Banerjee shoots another letter to EC amid SIR process in Bengal

The 2024 Lok Sabha elections delivered a return to power for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), though the party fell short of the 272-seat majority on its own  winning 240 seats.

With its allies, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) secured enough support to form the new government, maintaining continuity at the Centre.

In West Bengal, the TMC emerged as the clear winner, claiming 29 of the states 42 Lok Sabha seats.

Who is accountable for BLO deaths during the SIR? A central focus of TMCs complaint was the reported deaths of Booth Level Officers across states during the SIR exercise.

They argued: Across several states in India, numerous BLOs have lost their lives while carrying out their SIR duties. In several cases, BLOs have been forced to commit suicide, citing the inhuman pressure by the ECI, and in other cases, families have revealed that the BLOs were forced to work under inhuman conditions that resulted in health failures and finally their untimely deaths. Who will take responsibility for these lives lost? The Election Commission or Chief Election Commissioner Mr Gyanesh Kumar?

The TMC alleged inadequate training, unrealistic deadlines, and systemic pressure that amounted to institutional neglect: We have seen how the BLOs received insufficient training, next to no support, were piled down with unrealistic deadlines and pressured until many of them finally succumbed to illness or death. Is the blood of these avoidable deaths not on the Chief Electoral Commissioners hands?

Around 40 Booth Level Officers in West Bengal have tragically lost their lives during the ongoing revision exercise, with families citing intense pressure and inadequate institutional support as contributing factors.

Is the SIR process being applied in a partisan manner? The TMC also accused the ECI of selective responsiveness, suggesting it reacts swiftly to concerns raised by the BJP but ignores those brought forward by the Opposition.

They stated: The Trinamool Congress has raised questions about the neutrality and efficacy of the SIR process time and time again; yet the Election Commission has not taken any concrete steps to address our concerns. Yet, when the BJP raises a frivolous issue, it is taken up with utmost priority Does this not reek of bias and partisan practice, which you seek to address, ultimately to the detriment of your constitutional autonomy?

The TMC cited decisions on external Booth Level Agents (BLAs) and exclusions of data-entry operators from Bangla Sahayata Kendras as examples that reveal bias.

Is ECI enabling voter deletion narratives promoted by BJP? The TMC delegation also pointed to evolving rules and narratives around electoral procedures in other states, alleging that these changes appear politically convenient for the BJP.

Their statement added: In Bihar, we saw how suddenly the Model Code of Conduct became malleable with new restrictions on public mobilisation, spending and new provisions of digital complaints all geared to aid the BJP. In Bengal, BJP leaders are claiming that ~1 Cr voters' names will be deleted from the rolls. The ECI has taken no cognizance of these comments, nor have they negated the fear mongering by the BJP. That leads us to ask two questions, is the ECI working upon command of the BJP? Is every sacrosanct provision now tamperable to suit a single political party's agenda?

SIR in Bengal The SIR in West Bengal commenced on 4 November 2025, when enumeration forms started being distributed to voters across the state.

As of late November, roughly 3.8 crore out of 7.6 crore voters forms have been digitised  about 49.3% of the total.
KHERSON, Ukraine  When Olena Horlova leaves home or drives through town outside the southern Ukrainian city of Kherson, she fears that she's a target. She believes that Russian drones could be waiting on a rooftop, along the road or aiming for her car.

To protect herself and her two daughters, the girls stay indoors, and she stays alert  sometimes returning home at night along dark roads without headlights so as not to be seen.

After living through the occupation, refusing to cooperate with Russian forces and hiding from them, Horlova, like so many other residents, found that even after her town was liberated in 2022, the ordeal didn't end.

Kherson was among the first places where Russian forces began using short-range, first-person view, or FPV, drones against civilians. The drones are equipped with livestreaming cameras that let operators see and select their targets in real time. The tactic later spread more than 300 kilometers along the right bank of the Dnipro River, across the Dnipropetrovsk, Kherson and Mykolaiv regions.

The United Nations' Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine says the attacks leave little doubt about their intent. In an October report, the commission said that the attacks have repeatedly killed and wounded civilians, destroyed homes and forced thousands to flee, concluding that they amount to the crimes against humanity of murder and forcible transfer.

We live with the hope that one day this will finally end, Horlova said, her voice trembling. What matters for us is a cease-fire, or for the front line to be pushed further away. Then it would be easier for us.

Horlova lives in Komyshany, a village just outside Kherson and only 4 kilometers from the Dnipro River, where the level of intense attacks has remained the same, despite Ukrainian forces retaking the city from Russian occupation in November 2022  about nine months after Russia launched its full-scale invasion on Feb. 24 of that year.

But the war didn't end there. Instead, it shifted into a phase in which the area has effectively become what locals and the military term a human safari, describing it as a testing ground where people are often the target of drone attacks.

Horlova says that FPVs often land on rooftops when their batteries run low and then wait out.

When people, cars or even a cyclist appear, the drone suddenly lifts off and drops the explosive, she said. Its gotten to the point where they even drop them on animals  cows, goats.

She believes that civilians are hunted as revenge for the celebrations that broke out when Kherson was liberated.

The report from the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine says the attacks have spread terror among civilians and violated their right to life and other fundamental human rights. Investigators found that Russian units on the occupied left bank of the Dnipro carried out the strikes and identified specific drone units, operators and commanders involved. They also noted that Russian Telegram channels routinely share videos of the attacks, often with mocking captions and threats of more.

The U.N. commission said that it examined Russian claims that Ukrainian forces had launched drone attacks on civilians in occupied areas, unable to conclude its investigation because it lacked access to the territory, couldn't ensure witness safety and didn't receive answers from Russian authorities.

Interceptions obtained by The Associated Press from the 310th Separate Marine Electronic Warfare Battalion show Russian FPV drones that appear to be hunting for vehicles. The videos capture drones flying low over roads and locking onto moving or parked cars  often pickups, supply vehicles, sedans and even clearly marked ambulances  before diving for a strike.

The commander of the 310th Battalion, which protects the skies over 470 kilometers of southern Ukraine, including Kherson, says at least 300 drones fly toward the city every day. In October alone, the number of drones that flew over Kherson was 9,000.

This area is like a training ground, said the battalions commander, Dmytro Liashok, a 16-year military veteran and one of Ukraines early pioneers in electronic warfare. They bring new Russian crews here to gain experience before sending them elsewhere. The couldn't independently verify the claim.

Despite the sheer volume of drones  a figure that excludes other types of weapons like artillery and glide bombs  his forces manage to neutralize more than 90%, he said.

According to the U.N. human rights office, short-range drone attacks have become the leading cause of civilian casualties near the front line. Local authorities say that since July 2024, more than 200 civilians have been killed and more than 2,000 wounded in three southern regions, with most victims being men. Nearly 3,000 homes have been damaged or destroyed.

During a surprise visit to Kherson in November, Angelina Jolie described the constant overhead threat as a heavy presence.

There was a moment when we had to pause and wait while a drone flew overhead, she wrote on Instagram. I was in protective gear, and for me it was just a couple of days. The families here live with this every single day.

At one of Khersons main hospitals treating drone victims, 70-year-old Nataliia Naumova is recovering after a strike by a Shahed drone, which carries a heavier explosive than FPV drones, left her with a blast injury to her left leg on Oct. 20.

She says the strike hit during the night as she waited at a school in the village of Inzhenerne, where she had been temporarily sheltered, for an evacuation bus that was due to arrive the next morning.

There were so many drones flying over us, she said, adding that she rarely left home even after its windows were shattered and boarded up. People there survive, not live. I never thought such a tragedy would happen to me.

Dr. Yevhen Haran, the hospitals deputy medical chief, says the injuries from drone strikes range from amputations to fatal wounds.

Its simply hunting for people. Theres no other name for it, he said.

He says patients wounded in Russian attacks, including drone strikes, arrive at the hospital every day. Last month alone, it treated 85 inpatients and 105 outpatients with blast injuries, all from shelling and drone strikes. It's also the only hospital in the area equipped to handle the most serious cases.

Haran himself came under FPV drone fire on Aug. 26 while driving from nearby Mykolaiv with his wife. Rescuers stopped their car on the highway, warning that a drone was overhead.

I pulled in behind them. The drone circled and, on the next pass, flew straight into their vehicle  the drivers door, he recalled. Shrapnel tore through the front car, while his, parked behind, shielded him.

He reached the hospital with a hypertensive crisis and was later treated for a concussion. Sometimes I still lose words and feel unsteady, he said. It all happened in less than 10 minutes.

For people in Kherson, the experience of occupation, and the moment the city was freed, still shapes how they endure the constant drone attacks.

We held out until liberation  well hold out until peace as well, he said.
On Tuesday, November 18 last County Longford Shooting and Conservation Council held an information meeting for its members. The meeting was held in the Longford Rugby Club House and over sixty members were in attendance.

Read more: Longford fundraiser Cycle for Alan reaches final figure during presentation



The meeting heard reports from a number of speakers. Mr Padraig Breen the NARGC National Game Development Officer, and in his address he gave details on the National Wing survey and the International Wetlands Project and he asked that all members partake in these projects along with the Midlands Wild Mink Project. He spoke of great initiatives elsewhere in Europe, regarding wetlands and migratory bird flight paths, that can not only benefit the wildlife but also the areas they are focusing on.



Mr Owen Murphy the Project Manager of the Midlands Eradication Programme informed the meeting about the Mink Programme which aims to eradicate Wild Mink from a large selected area around Lough Ree over the next three and a half years. He requested members and volunteers to assist in the programme. This is also open to the general public who can assist if they wish to help. The website has a data record that people can use to add to that with sights of dead or alive wild mink.

Read more: Major N4 MullingarLongford project included in Government's transport investment plan



It was great to see the various organisations come together to the benefit of all the community. The County Longford Shooting are on the edge of all that is happening in regards to conservation, working alongside the Conservation Council and on their own local various programmes.



Full details about the mink eradication programme can be found on www.minkeradication.ie



Chairperson of County Longford Shooting and Conservation Council Tommy Reynolds made a presentation to Chris Gavican on behalf of all clubs and members to mark his retirement from NARGC.
Dr Sean Columb, a lecturer and researcher in the University of Liverpool, was recently named as the winner of Best Investigative Article at The Human Trafficking Foundations Anti-Slavery Awards. From Ballynacross, Granard, Dr Columb attended UCC, then went to Queens University in Belfast before he got his post in University of Liverpool as a Reader in Law at the School of Law and Social Justice.



The award comes in recognition of his article published in The Guardian called: For me, there was no other choice: inside the global illegal organ trade (published in 2024).

Read more: Close to Longford: Documentary creates conversation at 70th Cork Film Festival



As an academic, through his research, Dr Columb has been building connections throughout ten years to be able to speak to brokers and donors to explore issues in legislation that leads to people going down this route in organ donation.



He explained, Its not just an academic issue, but its not been reported. Victims werent recognised as victims of trafficking. They were being prosecuted, and I wanted to talk to people about why they were in a position to sell a kidney to begin with. I never thought it was possible to speak to a broker.



It was a method of my research that happened organically. I felt it was important to see the impact the legislation had at all. Im a socio-legal researcher, so I see how law affects people.



Part of his research led him to Khartoum, Sudan as there was little international reporting on the conflict back in 2023.

He said that brokers were taking advantage of the situation, and he wanted to know why people there were vulnerable to exploitation. It was a follow-up to his time in Egypt from previous research, having stayed in contact with people there.



Some of the people were younger people and it was their responsibility to help their family members. Their family would invest money in them to get somewhere to have a better chance. A lot would go to Libya, make the crossing, get pushed back. There is no legal accountability. People are being detained with no recourse. Its completely arbitrary. They were being pushed back, locked up. They were releasing people for 7,000 dollars.



Libyas immigration detention centres are partly funded by the EU, but have no legal process, hence the bribes from officers to be able to leave. Dr Columbs work is built through the accounts of those who had endured the kidney donation or bought them, as selling a kidney could bring the funds for refuge and passage between borders. The stories of Yonas, Hakim (a broker), Hiba, Rania and Fatima went into depth from various perspectives.



For Dr Columb, garnering the attention for this piece via the award is good news, but more because of how the topic is being discussed more.

Read more: Retirement Planning Council of Ireland marks 50 years with Longford Womens Link partnership



Im happy that its getting attention because you do this research and dont want it in an echo chamber. Thats why I did this report. Hopefully, that opens conversation. When you have a complex social or criminal issue, legislation is brought but it doesnt say what effects these measures are going to have. People look through a narrow lens, its wrong, well criminalise it but not look beyond it. Why are people being targeted? Hopefully, it opens conversations. With that article, I wanted to draw what was happening in Sudan in this specific context. Its nice the recognition but at least I know people are reading it which is drawing attention to the issue.



He has added that he will use his own research for his course on transnational crime. On the course, he talks about organised crime, drug trafficking, and human smuggling. Then he has other people in to talk about their work and research.



Dr Columb's article is available via The Guardian, where he covers plenty of in-depth research and conversation on how this exploitative trade thrives on chaos and desperation.
A screenshot from a video released by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) shows a terrorist firing on Israeli troops after driving toward them along a humanitarian aid route and exiting his vehicle.

Palestinian terrorists violated the ceasefire in Gaza 14 times between November 22 and November 26, and 46 times since its implementation on October 10, according to Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reports.

Notably, on November 22, an armed terrorist driving on a designated humanitarian road crossed the Yellow Line that demarcates the Israeli-controlled side of Gaza. The attacker exited his vehicle and opened fire at IDF troops, but was eliminated without Israeli casualties, the IDF said. In retaliation, the Israeli military launched targeted strikes that eliminated five senior Hamas officials, including Abu Abdullah al Hudaydi, an operational staff commander of Hamass military wing, and Alaa Hadidi, Hamass weapons supply commander.

The Trump administration backs the Israeli retaliatory strikes in Gaza today, a US official said after the strikes. The attack was at an area of [a] recently reopened humanitarian aid gate. Israel has a policy, agreed upon with the mediators, that ceasefire violations will be met with an immediate response.

Hamas subsequently decried the Israeli strikes as a ceasefire violation and reportedly initially threatened that the ceasefire [was] over, before another Hamas official walked back the statement later in the day.

The incident threatened to upset the fragile ceasefire, but the situation in Gaza calmed following the weekend violence. Nevertheless, violations of the truce continued. Below is a list of all violations of the ceasefire by Hamas and other Palestinian terrorist groups between November 22 and November 26 that the IDF has reported:

On November 22, an armed terrorist fired at Israeli troops from a humanitarian access road, documented with video footage published by the IDF. The attacker was eliminated, according to an IDF statement.

Later on November 22, the IDF said that it had eliminated 3 terrorists, likely the same individuals who exited [] underground terror infrastructure during an attempted escape of the Rafah tunnels the previous day. Two other militants were eliminated in a separate strike, bringing the total number killed in the incident to five, according to the IDF.

Also on November 22, the IDF stated it had eliminated 2 terrorists who crossed the yellow line and advanced toward IDF soldiers, posing an immediate threat to them.

On November 24, the IDF said that Kfir Brigade combat team forces identified earlier today a terrorist who crossed the yellow line and approached IDF forces operating in Khan Yunis. The individual was struck by Israeli Air Force assets, according to the IDF.

In an additional incident near Khan Younis on November 24, the IDF said that forces identified two terrorists who crossed the yellow line and approached IDF forces. The Israeli Air Force also struck these individuals.

Later on November 24, the IDF said that troops identified several terrorists crossing the yellow line and approaching our troops in northern Gaza, posing an immediate threat to them. In a separate incident in the same area on the same day, the IDF stated that additional terrorists attempted to approach IDF troops, adding that Israeli forces responded and eliminated two terrorists [in total from both incidents] to remove the threat.

On November 25, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) of delaying the return of an Israeli hostage as stipulated by the ceasefires terms. In light of the announcement by the Islamic Jihad regarding the discovery of remains of a deceased hostage, Israel views with utmost seriousness the delay in their immediate transfer to its hands, Netanyahu said. This constitutes an additional violation of the agreement. Israel demands the immediate return of the three deceased hostages still held in the Gaza Strip. The previous day, PIJ had announced that it had located the body of a hostage. After Netanyahus pressure, PIJ returned the body, later identified as Dror Or.

On November 25, Israeli troops identified a terrorist who crossed the yellow line and approached IDF forces operating in the northern Strip [] the forces fired and eliminated the terrorist in order to remove the threat, the IDF stated.

Later on November 25, the IDF said that troops from its Nahal Brigade had identified and eliminated five armed individuals emerging from tunnels in the Rafah Pocket.

On November 26, the IDF said that six additional terrorists had emerged from tunnels in Rafah. Two individuals were captured by the IDF, and four others were eliminated.

Also on November 26, the IDF said that it had struck a Hamas terrorist who planned to carry out a sniper plot against IDF forces in the northern Gaza Strip in the immediate timeframe.

Later on November 26, a PIJ member was eliminated after approaching IDF forces operating in [the] southern Gaza Strip, in a manner that posed an immediate threat to them, according to the IDF.

In a separate incident on November 26, a Palestinian crossed the Yellow Line and approached IDF forces operating in the area. Upon identification, forces belonging to the IDFs Southern Brigade eliminated the terrorist, the IDF stated.

The week of November 22 to 26 marked a substantial increase in the frequency of ceasefire violations since the deal was signed.

Samuel Ben-Ur and Aaron Goren are research analysts at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies. Follow Aaron Goren on X @realaarongoren.
TL;DR: Its now only $49.97 to get Microsoft Office for life.

Mac users who dont want another subscription hanging over now have a way out. Instead of paying for Microsoft 365 every month, take a look at this Microsoft Office Home and Business 2021 lifetime license. It comes with many of the same apps, but its only $49.97 for life while its on sale (reg. $219).

Heres whats included:

Word

Excel

PowerPoint

Outlook

Teams (Basic)

OneNote (free version)

These apps run natively on macOS, so everything feels like normal desktop software without any weird compatibility issues. Activation is simple. Redeem your code within seven days, sign in with your Microsoft account, and the license attaches to your Mac. The suite works with current macOS versions like Sonoma, Sequoia, and Tahoe.

If you want the classic Office apps on your Mac but dont feel like dealing with another Microsoft 365 charge, this license keeps things simple.

Right now, its only $49.97 to get a Microsoft Office 2021 lifetime license, but this sale ends soon.

No coupon needed.

Microsoft Office Home & Business for Mac 2021: Lifetime LicenseSee Deal

StackSocial prices subject to change.
Northeastern University has big plans for growth.

In its Institutional Master Plan for the next 10 years  approved by the Boston Planning Department earlier this month  the school outlined several construction projects, including both academic and residential buildings.

The institution has seen a boom in enrollment in recent years. According to a recent city report, Northeasterns on-campus enrollment had risen by 17,467 or 66.1% between 2013 and 2024, far more than any other school. The runner-up, Boston University, grew by 2,996 or 10.4% during that period.

A big part of planning the schools future has been figuring out how to house all of those students. In total, the new master plan calls for more than 1,200 new dorm beds, in addition to 1,370 beds in a new building at 840 Columbus Ave., which has been under construction since August. That project is part of the previous master plan.

The university has also promised millions of dollars to the city for housing-related programs, including some aimed at increasing affordable housing. The agreement is part of Bostons payment-in-lieu-of-taxes program for nonprofits that do not pay property taxes.

With the broader housing crunch pitting permanent Boston residents against college students searching for off-campus housing, its yet to be seen whether the new dorm beds will be enough to quell that competition.

The approval of the new Institutional Master Plan marks a significant milestone in the ongoing development of Northeastern Universitys Boston campus to support our academic mission, Kathy Spiegelman, vice president and chief of planning, real estate and facilities at Northeastern, said in a statement. We look forward to working closely with the city and our community partners as we bring this vision to life, ensuring that our physical campus continues to meet the evolving needs of our students, faculty, staff and the broader Boston community.

Expanding the housing footprint

Over the course of the previous master plan, which ran from 2013 to 2023, Northeastern added 2,589 dorm beds, not including the ongoing Columbus Avenue project.

The first residential project outlined in the new master plan will replace the former White Hall, a 500-bed dormitory building at 21 Forsyth St. It was vacated in 2023 and demolished last year due to structural deficiencies. The new building is expected to create about 1,050 dorm beds.

The second will replace the existing Burstein and Rubenstein Halls, which currently house about 230 beds. The new building is expected to house 910 students.

The existing buildings at 454-464 Huntington Ave., across from the Museum of Fine Arts, were built in the 1920s and are no longer suited toward contemporary dormitory standards, according to the master plan.

Members of the community surrounding Northeastern, mainly in the neighborhoods of Mission Hill, Roxbury and the Fenway, have long complained of the schools student population encroaching on the housing supply that would otherwise be available to permanent Boston residents. While first- and second-year students are required to live on campus, many older students choose to find off-campus apartments.

As Northeastern has grown over the years, it has also bought or leased nearby apartment buildings for student housing, taking homes off the market for permanent Boston residents.

In 2024, Northeastern provided housing for about 44.1% of its students. That left about 6,183 undergraduate and 7,133 graduate students in private, off-campus housing, the most of any college in Boston, according to city data.

Between the new master plan and the 840 Columbus Ave. building under construction, the school is set to create housing for more than 2,500 beds, but that still leaves thousands more without space.

Residents are unable to compete with students for rental housing, given students ability to afford higher prices, which drives up rents, and displaces low- and moderate-income residents, wrote Cassie White, director of policy and community organizing for Fenway Community Development Corporation, in a public comment letter to the city Planning Department submitted in May.

Other organizations and community members who submitted public comments on the draft master plan called on Northeastern to increase the number of students to be housed on campus in the future and to prioritize the residential projects outlined in the plan. Some called for a goal of housing 75% of undergraduate students on campus by 2034.

The university must find ways to incentivize and capture more on-campus housing as a significant step in mitigating displacement caused by Northeastern University students living off campus in naturally occurring affordable housing, wrote Armani White, executive director of the group Reclaim Roxbury, in a May letter also signed by leaders of nine other community groups.

Unprecedented growth

In 2021, the university received a record number of applications and admitted so many students that it was forced to house hundreds in the nearby Midtown, Westin and Sheraton hotels. The school has also leased additional dorm space from Wentworth Institute of Technology.

The school has since finalized a plan to make the Sheraton lease permanent, converting the hotels south tower into a dormitory with 854 beds. But it also said in October, it is no longer leasing space from the Midtown Hotel, according to the Huntington News.

The university outlined goals in the new master plan to create 1,000 new dorm beds  not including those in the 840 Columbus Ave. building  over the next five years, the first half of the master plans term. The goal is to house 60% of undergraduate students on campus by 2035.

Northeastern is committed to meeting its students housing needs while acknowledging the pressure those needs place on available housing stock in neighborhoods immediately surrounding the campus, school officials wrote in the master plan.

New aid to the community

Over the course of the 10-year master plan, Northeastern committed to paying between $97 and $112 million to the city in community benefit and mitigation funds. This includes between $45 and $60 million in linkage payments, which are mandatory for commercial developments that require a zoning variance and are used to fund affordable housing and workforce training programs.

Northeastern will also contribute $1 million each year to Bostons Housing Stabilization Fund or Acquisition Opportunity Fund, programs that maintain affordable housing in the city.

In addition, if the number of students in need of off-campus housing goes beyond 6,800 in the next five years, the university will be required to submit a mitigation plan to the Planning Department for approval through a public process.

Northeasterns Institutional Master Plan represents a balanced approach that allows the University to invest in its institutional growth with a renewed commitment to housing stabilization for the surrounding communities, Kairos Shen, Boston Chief of Planning, said in a statement. I look forward to working with Northeastern to realize the historic and transformative plans in this IMP.
A woman from Massachusetts won $25,000 a year for life playing the lottery and plans on taking the trip of a lifetime.

Vivian Perry, of Blackstone, won $25,000 a year for life playing Lucky for Life" on Nov. 15. She came forward on Thursday to claim her winning ticket.

Perry chose the cash option on her prize and received a one-time payment of $390,000 before taxes. She told lottery officials she plans on taking a trip to Italy with her winnings.

Perry bought her winning ticket at Georges Variety, located at 32 Central St. in Millville. The store will receive a $5,000 bonus for selling the winning ticket.
Authorities have identified the person who died in a crash involving a vehicle and a tractor trailer on a Massachusetts highway on Thanksgiving morning.

Carlos Chavez Martinez, 28, of Providence, Rhode Island was killed in the crash that happened on Interstate 95 near North Attleborough on Thursday, Nov. 27, according to the office of Bristol County District Attorney Thomas M. Quinn III.

At 2:30 a.m., state troopers responded to the crash involving a tractor trailer and a motor vehicle on I-95 south near mile marker 9.2 in North Attleborough, Quinns office said.

Officers found a white Audi sedan on the right side of the highway. The sedan had collided with a tractor trailer that was parked in a rest area. The Audi had catastrophic damage on top of a guardrail and adjacent to the rear wheels of the trailer, according to Quinns office.

The Audis driver, later identified as Chavez Martinez, was found unresponsive and still in the drivers seat. Paramedics pronounced him dead at around 2:40 a.m.

The tractor trailer was driven by a 40-year-old man who did not appear to be injured, according to Quinns office.

The crash remains under investigation by the Massachusetts State Police Detective Unit assigned to the Bristol County District Attorneys Office along with the Massachusetts State Police.
A Massachusetts man is facing multiple charges after New Hampshire State Police troopers say he hit their cruiser after being trapped on a dead-end street during a chase.

Alejandro Vargas, 27, of Lowell, was arrested following a pursuit that occurred in the overnight hours of Tuesday, Nov. 25, according to New Hampshire State Police.

New Hampshire state troopers got a call about a pursuit of a silver 2026 Chevrolet Silverado that evaded the Epping Police Department in that New Hampshire town and was seen driving on Route 101 at around 1:21 a.m. Shortly after, police in the neighboring town of Candia saw the same truck speeding at 105 mph, state police said.

A state trooper then saw the vehicle get onto Interstate 93 headed south in Manchester and followed it until exit 1 at I-293. The trooper tried to pull the truck over, but the driver refused and a pursuit ensued.

The driver, later identified as Vargas, got off at exit 4 and turned onto Arnold Street in Manchester, authorities said.

After realizing the street was a dead end, Vargas turned around and hit a different state police cruiser while trying to avoid being arrested, according to police. Vargas then crashed into two more parked cars.

He and his passenger got out of the Chevrolet and ran in opposite directions. Vargas was quickly tracked down and arrested with the help of Manchester police.

The Lowell man was found to have an outstanding warrant for arrest from the U.S. Marshals Service. He was also charged with felony reckless conduct  deadly weapon, misdemeanor charges of disobeying an officer, resisting arrest, simple assault and conduct after an accident, New Hampshire State Police said.

The 27-year-old was arraigned on his New Hampshire charges in Manchester District Court on Wednesday, Nov. 26, according to state police.
After spending more than two decades incarcerated in Massachusetts, a mans fate remains uncertain as he is facing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Bryan Marshall, of Chicopee, was 27 when he shot a killed another man, Robert Campbell, who was dating his ex-girlfriend on April 10, 2001.

Marshall was convicted of second-degree murder and was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole.

He was first allowed to ask for parole in 2016 but postponed his hearing. Instead, he faced the Massachusetts Parole Board for the first time on June 18.

His last disciplinary report was in 2010, the parole board noted. He has also completed multiple programs and is awaiting enrollment in the Family Violence Program.

The board considered a neuropsychological evaluation that noted sustained clinical improvement indicative of substantial, effective rehabilitation.

On Nov. 19, the board concluded by unanimous decision that Marshall had demonstrated a level of rehabilitation that would make his release compatible with the welfare of society.

Once he completes the Family Violence Program, he will be released to ICE.

If released from ICE, he will have a curfew of 10 p.m., be supervised for drugs and alcohol and must have mental health counseling for adjustment.

At least five others have been released from prison to ICE in the past year. However, ICE has not responded to MassLives request for comment if any of them have been deported.
Tony Germano, a voice actor featured in Netflix and Nickelodeon projects, fell to his death while visiting family in Brazil, PEOPLE reported. He was 55.

Germano died following the fatal fall in Sao Paulo on Wednesday, Nov. 26, a representative for the Brazilian actor told PEOPLE. The actor was staying at his parents house before the fall, during which he lost his balance, according to local outlets Folha de Sao Paulo and O Estado de Sao Paulo.

It is with deep sorrow that we confirm the passing of actor and voice artist Tony Germano, the representative told PEOPLE.

We kindly ask for respect and understanding during this painful time for his family, friends, and colleagues, they added. Tony leaves behind a legacy of dedication, generosity and immense talent that touched everyone who had the privilege of working with him. His absence will be deeply felt.

Germano was best known for voicing characters in the Portuguese adaptations of Nickelodeons Nicky, Ricky, Dicky & Dawn and Netflixs Go, Dog, Go!, according to PEOPLE. He also appeared in Elena of Avalor, The Muppets and on the soundtrack of Disneys 2017 live-action Beauty and the Beast. Germanos other notable projects include Labyrinth of Lost Boys (2025), An Unforgettable Year: Autumn (2023) and Phantom Summer (2022), according to the actors IMDb profile.

Matheus Marchetti, who directed Labyrinth of Lost Boys, paid tribute to Germano in a lengthy Instagram post.

I am so lucky to have found a soul as generous, as talented, and as endearing as Tony Germano, Marchetti wrote in the post that was translated from Portuguese to English.

Its a gift from the rarest of all. Its sad for those who couldnt work with him, whether on stage, on screen, or in life, Marchetti continued. Those of us who have been able to have even a bit of Tony in our lives are very very lucky.

A service for Germano was held at the Bosque da Paz Cemetery in Vargem Grande Paulista on Thursday, Nov. 27, the actors rep told PEOPLE.
In addition to making big moves like trading for veteran starter Sonny Gray, the Red Sox continue to look to add depth  especially with versatile positional players. To that end, they added a utility man with major league experience this week.

The club has reached a deal with 29-year-old Vinny Capra on a minor league contract, according to MLBs transactions log. According to a source, the Red Sox identified Capra as a priority add in minor league free agency when the market opened late last month.

Capras deal includes a major league spring training invite and an opt-out/assignment clause on July 1 if hes not in the majors then.

Capra, a former 20th round pick of the Blue Jays in 2018, has appeared in 67 major league games, including 47 in 2025 (split between the Brewers and White Sox). He struggled offensively, batting .125 with one homer, six RBIs and a .334 OPS in 105 total plate appearances. He made appearances at third base (137 innings), shortstop (93 innings) and second base (17  innings). One of the more notable moments of his season came on July 3, when he was the victim of Clayton Kershaws 3,000th strikeout in Los Angeles.

Capra came up in Torontos system and debuted there in 2022 before being traded to Pittsburgh for former Red Sox catcher Tyler Heineman in April 2023. Six months later, he was claimed by Milwaukee, where he spent two seasons before being claimed by the White Sox on May 15. Capra also saw some work in both corner outfield spots at Triple-A with Chicago.

The Red Sox have plenty of utility options on the 40-man roster, including newcomer Tristan Gray and returnees David Hamilton, Vaughn Grissom, Nate Eaton and Nick Sogard. Capra profiles as a versatile depth option at Triple-A Worcester. He joins catcher Jason Delay and right-hander Osvaldo Berrios as early additions via minor league free agency this offseason.
Hainan: Door's open, come on in

10:43, November 28, 2025 By Michael Kurtagh ( People's Daily Online

A view of the Haikou skyline from Evergreen Park in Haikou, south China's Hainan Province. (People's Daily Online/Wang Xiaoping)

On Dec. 18, 2025, the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) will begin island-wide special customs operations. This is more than a policy change. It is the next chapter in the story of south China's Hainan Province, an island that has spent years quietly transforming itself into one of the boldest experiments in opening up anywhere in the world. With these new operations, a new special supervision model will be implemented which has been described as "freer access at the first line, regulated access at the second line, and free flows within the island." But the implications extend far beyond logistics. It is a signal. A promise. A door being opened with purpose and confidence.

A month before this defining moment, I traveled across Hainan. From the bustling coastal cities to the quieter inland towns, I spoke with people from all walks of life: business executives, young entrepreneurs, students, professors, volunteers, returnees who came home after studying abroad, and foreign nationals who unexpectedly found themselves calling Hainan home. Their stories varied, yet all of them radiated the same sense of hope and expectation. Something big is beginning here. Something deliberate. Something that promises to shape the future.

Walking through the streets, I could feel momentum in the air. It is not just optimism. It is the early vibration before a wave rises. Hainan is alive with ambition, and the people here are not simply dreaming of the future; they are building it.

A view from Yangpu International Container Port in the Yangpu Economic Development Zone in Danzhou, south China's Hainan Province. (People's Daily Online/Michael Kurtagh)

Open for business

Hainan has long been described as tropical, relaxed, tourist-friendly, and peaceful. All of this is true. But beneath the beaches and palm trees, there is a thriving ecosystem of commerce, investment, and ambition. The island is ready for companies, both domestic and international, to take root and grow.

Professor Lin Guangming, a Singaporean, serves as the chief planner for the Yangpu Economic Development Zone, a pilot zone and demonstration area for the Hainan FTP, management committee and one of the designers of the Hainan Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences Yangpu campus. He explained how the upcoming special customs operations will accelerate development. "After Dec. 18, more companies will enjoy the benefits of new policies: tax incentives, smoother customs clearance, and better services and facilities for people and goods. These changes won't happen overnight, but they mark a positive milestone. Over time, more positive developments will follow."

An interview with Professor Lin Guangming, chief planner for the Yangpu Economic Development Zone management committee and designer of the Hainan Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences Yangpu campus in Danzhou, south China's Hainan Province. (People's Daily Online/Su Yingxiang)

Lin highlighted the broader impact on talent and education. "If more companies settle in Hainan, that means more job opportunities for our students after graduation. Faculty, especially those from overseas, will feel the convenience and improved services brought by these policies."

Jan Kerekes, founder of Haikou Quanliang International Trading Company Limited, shared his perspective as a foreign entrepreneur. "The changes are happening very fast and all in a positive direction. Visa-free entry is now possible and it's becoming far more accessible not only for tourists but also for businesses. Many companies have never heard of these policies, but there are real advantages. Hainan is a stepping stone to China. Setting up here makes entering the Chinese market much easier than starting directly in Shanghai or Beijing."

Hainan's business environment is more than incentives and logistics. It is about alignment: policy makers, academics, and enterprises working together to make the island a hub for innovation, trade, and global commerce. Lin described it simply: "The goal of these customs operations is to attract more companies and more global talent to settle here. Hainan wants to be a place where businesses can thrive, and where policy actively supports growth."

With the policies, infrastructure, and talent in place, Hainan is positioning itself as the perfect intermediary between the rest of the world and mainland China. It is an island where business opportunity meets global vision.

Helping hands

The upcoming special customs operations are not viewed just as a technical measure. They are only part of the puzzle to Hainan's current and future prospects as a hub for China's opening-up. The people of Hainan themselves may in fact be the true key, and talking with people who have made Hainan home, the human side of the island struck me again and again.

An interview with Amissah Richard Frank, an entrepreneur from Ghana, at the Haikou International Talent Community in Haikou, south China's Hainan Province. (People's Daily Online/Fu Wuping)

Amissah Richard Frank, an entrepreneur from Ghana, told me about the kindness he experienced. "One Chinese friend held my hand, took me to government offices, patent offices, helped me translate everything. He did it all for free. That is the heart of Hainan, real kindness. Hainan has given a lot to me. Hainan gave me a home when I was looking for one. It gave me friends when I was looking for them. If you gave me money to (leave Hainan), I wouldn't take it."

Marvis Ufomadu, a Nigerian native and recent graduate just starting her entrepreneurial journey, described the experience of integration. "In the past few months many foreigners have come here because of the FTP. If you are new, you will meet people who know what you need and guide you. I call this community a home to me now. I've been to many cities in Hainan, joined volunteer activities like teaching English, and it's something I never had before."

An interview with Slinko Nikita, a student from Kazakhstan studying at the Hainan Campus of Beijing Language and Culture University in Lingshui Li Autonmous County, south China's Hainan Province. (People's Daily Online/Zhao Jian)

And it's not just the businesspeople experiencing this amazing sense of warmth from locals. Slinko Nikita, a student from Kazakhstan studying at the Hainan Campus of Beijing Language and Culture University, when commenting on the locals said, "They're very, very kind. Even if we don't understand each other perfectly, we can still talk about anything. This place just makes people feel happy."

Whether it was officials, academics, or entrepreneurs, every person I met seemed ready to help newcomers integrate. That alignment of purpose creates a feeling of security, energy, and possibility that is hard to find elsewhere.

Looking to the future

After days of conversations and long drives through Hainan's landscapes, from its turquoise coastline to its forested interior, I realized the island is standing at a delicate yet powerful threshold. Delicate because beginnings always are. Powerful because the direction is clear and the commitment is unmistakable.

Hainan is more than a tropical paradise or a business hub. It is an ecosystem where policy, community, and ambition converge. It is where students learn in a German-Chinese integrated university and immediately apply their skills in real-world internships. It is where a Thai owned coffee company, with both imported and locally grown coffee, can benefit from new tax incentives, allowing companies and consumers to gain simultaneously. It is where free trade policies open doors for both small entrepreneurs and global corporations no matter their country of origin.

The Hainan FTP, in one word, is "opportunity." For individuals starting a company, for big corporations, for anyone.

The people, the landscape, the policies, and the ambition all converge. They create momentum. Hainan is no longer just an island; it is a threshold into the future.

But that future full of unlimited potential is only possible with global participation. The island is holding the door open, and a welcoming hand is already waiting for those who want to make Hainan's vision even more of a reality.

Something beautiful is being built in Hainan. Something meaningful. Something that will shape the future in ways we are only beginning to understand.

Don't just watch it happen. Step forward. Witness it. Take part. Hainan is ready for the world. The question is, are you ready to join in?

(Web editor: Hongyu, Wu Chengliang)
Joseph McCoy, 8, delivers food to Springfield residents at the Open Pantry on Thursday. Thanksgiving lunches were served at the Springfield High School of Commerce. Nov. 27, 2025. (Douglas Hook / The Republican) Douglas Hook

People weathering the loss of loved ones, homes and stable incomes trickled into the cafeteria of Springfields High School of Commerce to enjoy a free Thanksgiving meal Thursday.

The little thing of a shared meal, one said, means a lot.

Many who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, were reeling from a 40-day government shutdown that saw millions of Americans temporarily lose their benefits.

But many were used to struggling to have enough food.

Jim Henley, of Pine Point in Springfield, said times have been tough since his girlfriend died, and that every year there are fewer family members he can count on to join for a holiday meal.

Without his girlfriends income, Henley said paying rent of nearly $1,300 a month is forcing him to tighten his food budget.

But the 69-year-old had other reasons for seeking out a free meal. Im here to get rid of the loneliness, he said. You do get depressed, especially around the holidays.

Bummed out over the loss of his girlfriend, Henley said the meal brought him some comfort during the holiday season. Little things like this do help out, he said.

Volunteers served Thanksgiving lunches to Springfield residents at Springfields High School of Commerce Open Pantry on Thursday. Turkey, stuffing, mashed potato and cranberry sauce was served by an array of volunteers. Nov. 27, 2025. (Douglas Hook / The Republican) Douglas Hook

Crystal Cruz, 39, of Chicopee, said she was laid off from her nursing job six months ago and is looking for other work in the medical field. In the meantime, she said she was filing for unemployment and hopes for an increase in her SNAP benefits.

Rising prices have strained her finances. Everything is expensive, she said.

Celina Rivera, of Springfield, said shes been without a home for two years after an eight-year marriage ended in divorce, forcing her back to square one. A longtime SNAP recipient, she says her diabetes forces her to travel to Northampton to find a greater variety of healthy foods  and to avoid candy and sweets.

Im thankful for being alive  and for my faith and my belief, she said, because if it wasnt for that I dont think Id be here talking to you right now.

Nicole Lussier, agency director of Open Pantry Services, a local nonprofit that serves residents of Springfield and beyond who are struggling with food insecurity and homelessness, said the number of people visiting their Emergency Food Program more than doubled since the federal government shutdown began.

Foot traffic for the agencys Loaves and Fishes meal program nearly doubled, she said.

Morgan Maxey directs other volunteers to residents that are waiting for their Thanksgiving lunch. Maxey has been volunteering since she was 5 years old at the Springfield High School of Commerce Open Pantry on Thanksgiving. Nov. 27, 2025. (Douglas Hook / The Republican) Douglas Hook

Springfield, a city 155,000, has the largest share of Massachusetts residents on food stamps, at about 46%, according to state data. In 2024, food insecurity among Hampden County households reached 54%, the highest level of food insecurity in the state, according to a report by the Greater Boston Food Bank and Mass General Brigham.

That last figure is up 6% from 2023.

Statewide, food banks saw a spike in demand as hunger deepened during the government shutdown, The Republican has reported. Open Pantry Community Services, the organization that provided the holiday meal, is one such food pantry, providing over 1.6 million pounds of groceries, 50,000 meals and 268 housing placements in 2024, according to the organizations website.

Lussier said Open Pantry obtained the food served Thursday at a discounted price from Partners, a restaurant and catering company in Feeding Hills.

Danielle and Dante, who declined to give their last names, said they both received SNAP benefits and shared a tent in the woods. Danielle said it was the first Thanksgiving celebration she had attended in five years.

Asked how they manage to survive the Northeasts winters, Danielle, 41, said, Lots of blankets  and cuddling.

Dante, 34, said he and Danielle had to insulate the bottom of the mattress they slept on to keep the cold from coming through the floor of their tent.

A volunteer takes Thanksgiving lunch to a Springfield resident at Springfields High School of Commerce Open Pantry on Thursday. Turkey, stuffing, mashed potato and cranberry sauce was served by an array of volunteers. Nov. 27, 2025. (Douglas Hook / The Republican) Douglas Hook

Denise Douglas, her daughter Rhonda Robinson and Douglas grandson, Brayden Hurrye, came to the Open Pantry holiday meal at Springfields High School of Commerce to volunteer. For Robinson and Douglas this is the fourth year they have been helping on Thanksgiving. Nov. 27, 2025. (Douglas Hook / The Republican) Douglas Hook

Robert Vivas sits down for Thanksgiving lunch at the Springfields High School of Commerce Open Pantry on Thursday. Nov. 27, 2025. (Douglas Hook / The Republican) Douglas Hook

The charitable sector has been helpful in sustaining them through the winter. Both said they benefited from resource centers, drop-offs and a local crisis center that hands out juice boxes and crackers.

But Danielle, who now works as a crossing guard for Springfield public schools, noted buses dont always provide direct transportation to such places, forcing them to walk.

One of the many volunteers who turned out Thursday to help provide the meal explained why he likes to volunteer at the Thanksgiving meal.

They dont need to be on the streets, Memphis Rocketfield, 12, said of the days guests.

This story has been corrected to reflect that in 2024, food insecurity among Hampden County households reached 54%.
Boston Market in Worcester is closing for good. Google Maps

After more than two decades in business and amid recent financial struggles that included a temporary closure, the Boston Market at 14 Park Ave. in Worcester will close for good on Sunday, Nov. 30.

Boston Markets account announced the closure on Facebook Tuesday.

The shutdown follows a lengthy rent dispute between franchise owner Ronak Pandya and the buildings landlord, WCC Realty.

The landlord is just not a flexible guy, Pandya told the Telegram & Gazette this week.

He doesnt want to make things work and honestly, I think hes only going to harm himself.

Pandya added that after months of conflict, its not worth it to keep going back and forth.

The landlord sued Pandya earlier this year over unpaid rent.

According to the Telegram & Gazette, Pandya owes more than $54,000 in rent, and utilities to the building were recently shut off due to nonpayment.

The Worcester location has faced mounting financial trouble.

In March, the Department of Revenue seized the restaurant for unpaid taxes, as MassLive previously reported.

A large orange DOR notice was posted on the front of the restaurant, alongside a second sign stating the business was closed for the time being.

But two months later  on the same day the business was scheduled to vacate the property under an eviction notice  Pandya instead prepared for what he called a grand reopening.

I believe in the brand, I believe in the opportunity, I believe in the location, he told the Telegram & Gazette in May.

I love the community of Worcester.

Boston Markets Facebook post Tuesday alluded to another store opening next year, but did not elaborate beyond writing: But dont panic  we return in 2026 with a brand-new location and a reimagined experience."

In May, a WCC Realty representative said they had expected Pandya to leave the building under a 2023 eviction order.

The financial strain, however, predates Pandyas ownership.

In 2020, Jay Pandya  Ronak Pandyas father  took over the franchise, according to the Telegram & Gazette.

WCC Realty secured a judgment for more than $165,000 in back rent dating to 2018, part of broader scrutiny facing Boston Market nationwide.

Between 2017 and 2023, the chain closed more than 200 locations while facing multiple U.S. Department of Labor investigations into unpaid wages.

Pandya told the Telegram & Gazette in May that all outstanding amounts owed to the landlord had been paid off and that he had no plans to leave the property anytime soon, despite the states intervention.

Now, after months of legal battles, tax issues and unpaid bills, the restaurants doors will close permanently.

Pandya could not be reached for comment Friday morning.
The number of foreign nationals working at Mayo University Hospital has been revealed, with most being nurses or midwives.

Nationally, 12,000 non-nationals are working in HSE-run hospitals all around the country, according to figures obtained by Iconic Media under the Freedom of Information Act.

In Mayo, there are 472 foreign nationals working at the hospital, with 254 of those being nurses and midwives.

234 of those are midwives and 20 are nurse or midwife managers.

22 are working in health and social care and 14 work in management or administration roles.

139 work in the medical and dental fields, while 40 people work in patient and client care.

READ NEXT: Mayo News reporter completes Masters degree in journalism at Galway University

We requested these figures following the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation's condemnation of racially motivated abuse of health workers earlier this year, specifically those from India.

During the summer, one Indian nurse wrote an open letter detailing racial abuse in Ireland after she saw an eight-year-old Indian girl being bullied and racially targeted by a group of Irish teenagers.

The nurse's open letter said he was considering leaving Ireland while 30 to 35 Indian nurses were also seriously thinking about leaving their jobs because they no longer feel safe.

The open letter said: "We came to Ireland with dreams - not big ones. We didnt want luxury or fame. Just a peaceful life. Honest work. A little respect.

"My wife and I are both nurses. Like so many others, we left behind our families, our childhood homes, everything we knew to come here and help. To work hard. To live quietly. To make a better future. But now? Were planning to leave. And were not the only ones.

"In our circle alone, around 30 to 35 Indian nurses are talking seriously about quitting their jobs  some are applying to Australia, some going back to India. Even doctors are being targeted now. You mightve seen it in the news. Or maybe not. But we see it. We feel it. We live it.

"Yesterday, I saw something that broke me. An eight-year-old Indian girl, surrounded by a group of Irish boys and girls, maybe 15 or 16 years old. They were pushing her. Bullying and laughing. For no reason. Just because she looked different. I helped her escape. They ran. And I stood there shaking, wonderingwhat kind of place is this becoming?

READ NEXT: Farmers in Mayo to get payments through national dairy scheme

"We came to Ireland to save lives and now were scared to walk home after a shift. We kept going during COVID. We missed weddings and funerals back home to stay here and work. We followed every law, paid every tax, waited for every visa. We believed this was a country of kindness. And now? Now were afraid for our children. Afraid to send them to school.

"Afraid theyll be treated like less than human  just because of their skin, their accent, their food, their culture.

"We know not everyone here is like this. Weve met wonderful Irish people. Some have become like family. But that kindness is starting to feel like a whisper.....and the hate is starting to feel like a storm.

"I dont want to write this letter. I want to stay hopeful. But hope starts to fade when you see that even a eight-year-old brown girl can be treated like she doesnt belong.

"To Ireland, please listen: If we leave, it's not because we don't love this country. It's because this country stopped loving us back. If you lose your nurses, your doctors, your care workers dont ask "why." You already know why.

"We didnt leave because of money. We left because were tired of being afraid. Tired of being ignored. Tired of watching silence win. Theres still time. But not much. This isn't about politics anymore. Its about basic human decency.

"If this letter reaches even one person who didnt understand before then its worth writing.

"We are not here to divide. We are not here to invade. We are here because we believed Ireland was a place where all people had value. Please prove us right."

Responding to the staff figures, which only cover HSE hospitals and not private hospitals, nursing homes, care centres and the many agency staff working in our health sector, a HSE spokesperson said:

"The effective operation of many essential health services in Ireland would be seriously threatened without the support of the many thousands of international staff who work in our hospitals and community services every day.

"The HSE is proud of our organisations diversity and is dependent on all our staff for the delivery of frontline, essential services. We are very grateful to international workers who have chosen to move their lives and families to Ireland to work with the HSE and help provide essential care and support for patients and service users."

INMO General Secretary, Phil Ni Sheaghdha, said:

"These nurses and midwives make invaluable contributions, not just to their patients and to the workforce, but to our communities. There is no doubt that the Irish health service would suffer without the hard work of these valuable staff, and supporting these nurses and midwives to provide the best possible care and build the best possible careers in Ireland is a responsibility that should be taken very seriously by their employers and by the government."

As of 1 June 2025, there has been a decrease in the number of new registrants who were educated abroad but the number of Irish graduates coming onto the Register is steadily increasing year-on-year.

Nurses and midwives from Ireland accounted for the highest number of people in the profession with 54,436 registered.

Nurses and midwives from India followed as the second highest represented nationality with 20,419 registered from there.

Canada had the lowest number working in Ireland with just 81 nurses and midwives from there registered here.
A Mayo County Councillor has moved to label the defective blocks crisis, which has swept the county in recent years, as a national scandal.

The situation saw many homes built using substandard concrete blocks that, over time, have cracked and crumbled.

Yesterday (Thursday, November 27), Cabinet approved a bill to widen the group of homeowners eligible to benefit from the increased grant scheme.

Mayo County Council play an active role in the administration process, and the cost of that was questioned by Councillor Harry Barrett at the meeting to discuss the 2026 Council Budget.

I'd just like to know, have we been given extra finances to administer that? And what's it costing us? Because that is the biggest scandal this country has faced in the last 50 years, Cllr Barrett stated.

Defective materials were left on the properties, these properties were built, families suffered, and the providers and the whole industry gets away scot-free and it's then left on the council.

READ MORE: 'You're back at square one, only 25 years older' - Mayo Pyrite homeowners

Cllr Barrett also threatened not to support the passing of the Budget.

It's a national scandal, it's a local scandal. I'll be honest, if it's costing us money here in this council, if it's costing the rate payers and the people of County Mayo a single euro, I'm not supporting this budget.

The circumstances surrounding the administration of the defective block Defective Concrete Blocks Scheme was not the only item the independent Councillor was threatening to not support the Budget passing over.

Cllr Barrett asked the meeting, Is the transition from water services to Irish Water costing us money? Have we been reimbursed for that?

If that's costing us money, I'm not supporting this budget for the same reason. Government have to take control of that. It's their idea, they finance it.

Thirdly, the reduction in centrally funded pensions, is that costing us money? If it is, I'm not supporting it.

These are things left on our doorstep.

READ MORE: Mayo council 'morally and legally' obliged to support pyrite estate residents

The Director of Finance, Peter Duggan, moved to allay concerns, stating that any costs for the Defective Blocks Scheme were covered by the Department of Housing.

He also stated that the transition to Irish Water was also being funded by the government, bar some legacy issues.

The Director also clarified that those who joined in recent times would see their pensions funded by the Department; however that those who had joined earlier would see their pensions funded by the local authority.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
Mary Immaculate College (MIC) celebrated the achievements of 94 students this week at its seventh annual College Awards Ceremony, held in the Lime Tree Theatre on the Limerick campus. The event brought together awardees from across MICs Limerick and Thurles campuses, recognising an impressive range of academic, sporting, research and cultural accomplishments.

A diverse array of scholarships, bursaries, and prizes was awarded during the evening, amounting to just over 320,000. The celebration honoured both first-time recipients and those who continue to excel in their academic achievements and extracurricular pursuits while three Mayo students were rewarded with their academic excellence.

The West Chester Scholarship was presented to Kilmeena native Clodagh Moran (B Ed in Education and Psychology), following a highly competitive selection process that identified the top-performing graduates from both programmes. Presented by the Faculty of Education in partnership with West Chester University, Pennsylvania, the scholarship recognises and celebrates outstanding academic achievement and provides valuable support as recipients advance their professional and educational journeys.

Sarah Gibbons from Castlebar received an Undergraduate Entrance Scholarship to the Bachelor of Science in Psychology programme at MIC. The scholarship, valued at 2,000 was awarded on the basis of high-level CAO points obtained in the Leaving Certificate Examination.

Lauren Clancy from Ballyhaunis, also received an Undergraduate Entrance Scholarship to the Bachelor of Arts programme at MIC. The scholarship, valued at 2,000 was awarded on the basis of high-level CAO points obtained in the Leaving Certificate Examination.

Professor Dermot Nestor, President of MIC, paid tribute to this years awardees and scholarship recipients, noting that their achievements reflect both personal commitment and the character of the College community:

Tonight is about more than awards. Its about the passion that brings our students and graduates into their chosen fields, the persistence that carries them through the difficult moments and the belief that learning can change lives, including their own. Each name called tonight represents a story of effort, talent and support, and we are deeply proud of what they have contributed to MIC. Their futures are already taking shape, and its a privilege for all of us to be part of that journey.

For further information on MICs range of scholarships and awards, see www.mic.ie/scholarships

READ MORE: Large number of Mayo players involved in thrilling university final
A Garda-led property marking scheme has been welcomed by Mayo farmers and local representatives as concerns grow over sophisticated theft gangs targeting rural communities.

The initiative, which had a marking event in Westport this week, aims to help farmers protect valuable equipment and improve recovery rates when theft does occur. Garda Shane Nallen emphasised the program's preventative focus, stating it's "a great initiative for us in Westport to highlight the farm thefts and prevent them."

Garda Alan McGrath from Foxford Garda Station explains that marking farm equipment with eircodes makes the Gardais job a lot easier and acts as a deterrent for would-be thieves.

We can have the owner within minutes and have a location of where it has come from. We can check our Pulse system and see if there was a trailer theft coming from that address.

They know it's marked, but the idea is that the mark doesn't stand out, but it's somewhere in the trailer.

He also advises farmers to record the serial numbers on all the trailers. There is also a Garda property app where farmers can upload pictures of their property so that if anything is stolen, they have pictures, details and records of the item.

Garda Shane Nallen and Garda Alan McGrath

Local farmer and former Senator Frank Chambers expressed strong support for the service, noting it "helps in the whole process of people managing and minding their own properties." He added that the marking system provides crucial assistance "if something is stolen, that there's some connection to be made between the stolen article and what belongs to the people."

However, farmers acknowledge the challenges of securing equipment on working farms. One local farmer explained the difficulty of maintaining constant vigilance: "Sometimes with equipment around the farmyard and that kind of stuff, you are careful for a while if you've something new, but you tend to get careless after a while." With his property located on a busy main road where "stuff can be seen from the road," he remains determined to stay alert, saying, "We'll try and keep ahead of the thief."

Councillor Patsy O'Brien, who recently had a chainsaw stolen from outside his home in broad daylight, brought personal experience to his endorsement of the initiative. "It's every farmer's worst nightmare," he said, warning that criminals are increasingly using modern technology to identify targets. "Drones can be used to scan over farms and identify where machinery is. These are sophisticated, well-organised gangs and they know what they're looking for."

Cllr O'Brien is pushing for enhanced security measures, calling for cameras to be installed on bridges crossing the Shannon River to monitor vehicle movements in and out of the area.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
A major global analysis published inreports that thyroid cancer rates are rising in several regions of the world, with women continuing to bear the heaviest burden. The findings show how geography, healthcare access, and shifting lifestyle patterns are shaping these trends in ways that health planners can no longer overlook ().The study highlights clear variations in how thyroid cancer affects different parts of the world. While overall survival remains strong, thehas drawn global attention. Regions like the Eastern Mediterranean and South East Asia recorded consistent increases in both incidence and mortality. Researchers suggest these trends may reflect a mix of, lifestyle transitions, and uneven access to quality care Countries across the Eastern Mediterranean recorded the steepest rise in new cases. According to the authors, rapid urbanization and lifestyle shifts may be contributing factors. The region is also expected to experience the highest female mortality by 2030, a finding that underscores the need for stronger cancer surveillance systems.Europe showed a contrasting pattern. Mortality declined steadily, likely due to earlier diagnosis and improved care. Africa also showed a decrease, although researchers caution that underdiagnosis andmay affect accuracy.The study's projections reveal that increases in new cases will continue in most regions. Women will remain disproportionately affected. Men in the Western Pacific region are projected to show higher mortality than women by 2030, highlighting an unusual regional shift that warrants further investigation.Thyroid cancer remains a highly treatable condition, yet global inequalities are shaping very different patient experiences. These findings highlight the importance of, strong cancer registries, and accessible treatment, especially in parts of the world where the burden continues to rise.Source-Medindia

Did You Know: Thyroid cancer rates are climbing fastest in regions with limited access to care. #ThyroidHealth #GlobalCancerTrends #Medindia

Global trend and geographic distribution of thyroid cancer from 1990 to 2021 and its prediction until 2030

Listen to this article

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are thyroid cancer cases increasing globally?

A: Yes, most WHO regions show rising incidence, particularly the Eastern Mediterranean and South East Asia.

Q: Which region shows decreasing thyroid cancer mortality?

A: Europe demonstrates a consistent decline in mortality, with Africa also showing a downward trend.

Q: Why do women have higher thyroid cancer rates than men?

A: The study confirms this long observed pattern but does not attribute it to a single cause. Hormonal, lifestyle, and diagnostic factors may contribute.

Q: Is thyroid cancer usually fatal?

A: Most cases are treatable, but outcomes depend on early diagnosis and access to appropriate care.

Q: Will thyroid cancer rates continue to rise by 2030?

A: Yes, projections show increasing incidence in most regions, especially in the Eastern Mediterranean and South East Asia.
Analyzing the brain's protective shield allows doctors monitor cancer effortlessly via blood tests, paving the way for new survival drugs.

  Trusted Source

Microbubble-enhanced transcranial focused ultrasound with temozolomide for patients with high-grade glioma (BT008NA): a multicentre, open-label, phase 1/2 trial



Go to source Trusted Source

TOP INSIGHT Did You Know?

The power of #ultrasound and #chemotherapy for #brain_cancer, glioblastoma, can be unleashed through brain's shield. A new groundbreaking frontier in neuro-oncology! #glioblastoma #drugdelivery #blood_brain_barrier #neurology #oncology #medindia

Advertisement

Significant Extension of Survival Rates

Advertisement

A Decade of Research Culminates in Landmark Trial

Advertisement

Why Standard Blood Tests Failed Before Focused Ultrasound

The High Mortality Rate of the Most Common Brain Tumor

Bringing Hope to Glioblastoma Patients and Families

Beyond Biopsies: Simple and Routine Cancer Monitoring

Microbubble-enhanced transcranial focused ultrasound with temozolomide for patients with high-grade glioma (BT008NA): a multicentre, open-label, phase 1/2 trial - (https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanonc/article/PIIS1470-2045(25)00492-9/abstract)

The combined power of ultrasound and chemotherapy is an effective approach for treating glioblastoma , a deadly brain cancer that affects thousands of Americans each year.(The landmark clinical trial was led by University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM) researchers, and published in the journalThe findings of this groundbreaking safety, feasibility, and comparative trial involved glioblastoma patients who were given focused ultrasound to open their blood-brain barrier before getting chemotherapy; they were matched to a rigorously selected control group of 185 glioblastoma patients with similar characteristics who received the standard dose of the chemotherapy drug, temozolomide, without receiving focused ultrasound.Trial participants were initially treated with surgery to remove their brain tumor, followed by six weeks of chemotherapy and radiation, and up to six monthly focused-ultrasound treatments plus temozolomide.Trial participants had nearly 14 months of median progression-free survival, compared to eight months in the control group.The study builds on more than a decade of intensive research to test the safety and feasibility of opening the blood-brain barrier using focused ultrasound first in animal studies and then in patients. It was led by Dr. Woodworth and was conducted at UMMC and four other clinical sites affiliated with the University of Toronto, Harvard University, University of Virginia, and West Virginia University.We also demonstrated that this could be, said Dr. Woodworth, who also serves as Director of the Brain Tumor Program at the University of Maryland Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center (UMGCCC).He and his team demonstrated that, which can include DNA fragments, proteins and other components from the liquid environment surrounding the tumor site.Such biomarkers have been used in other cancers to determine whether the tumor has remained stable or has the potential to progress or even metastasize. Up until now, however, these tests have not been utilized in brain cancer patients since most components can never pass into the bloodstream from the brain due to the blood-brain barrier., said Dr. Woodworth.While temozolomide is the standard treatment for glioblastoma, the drug typically gets blocked by the blood-brain barrier with studies showing that less than 20 percent reaches the brain in patients.This study did not determine the exact amount of temozolomide to reach the brain in each patient, but earlier studies have shown that opening the blood-brain barrier before delivering chemotherapy can dramatically increase the amount that gets to the original tumor site.. The five-year survival rate is only 5.5 percent, and patients live an average of 14 to 16 months after diagnosis when treated with surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy when appropriate.The malignancy nearly always recurs even after it is removed due to residual infiltrating cancer cells that remain after treatment.. It can be opened temporarily using a specialized focused ultrasound device., said Pavlos Anastasiadis, PhD, an Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery at UMSOM who is an expert in ultrasound biophysics.Prior studies led by Dr. Woodworth and this trials co-investigators showed that opening the blood-brain barrier temporarily can be safely and feasibly performed in brain tumor patients. He and his team conducted this procedure in the first brain cancer patient in the U.S. in 2018 at UMMC after the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the inaugural clinical trial.Dr. Woodworths findings are deeply exciting and a significant step forward for the field, said Taofeek K. Owonikoko, MD, PhD, UMGCCC Executive Director. Patients with glioblastoma have had few effective treatment options, and UMGCCC is proud to be at the forefront of efforts to bring hope to these patients and their families.Future trials could use focused ultrasound alongside other chemotherapy agents to test the effectiveness of drugs never used in brain cancer due to their ineffectiveness at crossing the blood-brain barrier.This groundbreaking trial has provided a potential new prognostic and therapeutic paradigm for the 15,000 Americans who are diagnosed every year with this deadly form of brain cancer, said UMSOM Dean Mark T. Gladwin, MD, who is the John Z. and Akiko K. Bowers Distinguished Professor and Vice President for Medical Affairs at University of Maryland, Baltimore.. Having the ability to open the blood-brain barrier could also usher in the testing of new therapeutics to see whether they offer further life-extending benefits.For the thousands of people who receive this devastating diagnosis each year, the significance of this advancement cannot be overstated, said Bert W. O'Malley, MD, President and CEO of UMMC..Source-Eurekalert
Welcome to your Daily Horoscope for November 28, 2025! Today isnt just about what the stars suggest. Its also about the choices you make. The cosmic mood sets the backdrop, but you get to decide how you want to show up. Aries Horoscope Today - November 28, 2025

shutterstock You may not feel like taking a pause today. You aren't easily impressed by others. You know whether you can afford something or not. The first thought in your mind is the one that will work. Your Lucky color is Yellow. Your Lucky number is 1. Taurus Horoscope Today - November 28, 2025

shutterstock You have been acting a little jumpy and nervous, and it's starting to affect your work and friendships. Adventure is necessary tonight. Fast talk may save you some extra cash. Teamwork is essential today. Your Lucky color is Red. Your Lucky number is 10. Gemini Horoscope Today - November 28, 2025

shutterstock It's a good day to spend some time gaining new knowledge, exploring topics you've been interested in, and satisfying your curiosity. Intelligent jokes and intellectual debate are a turn-on for someone you are interested in. Follow your financial instincts today. No matter how tempting it sounds, office gossip will only get you in trouble. Your Lucky color is Pink. Your Lucky number is 20. Cancer Horoscope Today - November 28, 2025

shutterstock You may feel bored today. Don't hide how you feel and try to keep the peace. Approach your financial life with optimism. Try to make work fun today. Your Lucky color is Black. Your Lucky number is 26. Leo Horoscope Today - November 28, 2025

shutterstock You may see something that most people miss. Turn on the charm today. Stay optimistic about your financial situation. Show people at work today why you are so indispensable. Your Lucky color is Blue. Your Lucky number is 33. Virgo Horoscope Today - November 28, 2025

shutterstock You may feel stressed out, wound up, or uptight today. Treat your partner like a king or queen today. Hold onto your cash and credit cards. Use your powers of persuasion to get someone to help you out today. Your Lucky color is Maroon. Your Lucky number is 2. Libra Horoscope Today - November 28, 2025

shutterstock Communication skills are vital today. Make sure to save some energy for tonight. You're more concerned about personal desires than the future today. You may be forced to justify something to your superiors. Your Lucky color is Grey. Your Lucky number is 16. Scorpio Horoscope Today - November 28, 2025

shutterstock Be wary of anyone who comes to you asking for something. Be frank and upfront with your partner. Keep your finances a secret. You may feel nervous today, but try to hide it from associates. Your Lucky color is Violet. Your Lucky number is 12. Sagittarius Horoscope Today - November 28, 2025

shutterstock Look at the positive side of life today. Your wit and sense of humour are on fire tonight. Beware of impulsivity today. Use your powers of persuasion to get what you need at work. Your Lucky color is Green. Your Lucky number is 8. Capricorn Horoscope Today - November 28, 2025

shutterstock Rely on a good friend today. Being close to your loved one will be essential for you today. You might be in a less practical mood than usual today. You have the intellectual acumen to back yourself out of any corner. Your Lucky color is Cream. Your Lucky number is 11. Aquarius Horoscope Today - November 28, 2025

shutterstock Don't leave the details to other people today. Turn on the charm today. Ask for financial advice today. Enthusiasm is the mark of the day. Use yours to inspire your colleagues. Your Lucky color is Pink. Your Lucky number is 34. Pisces Horoscope Today - November 28, 2025
At the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2025, in Goa, Aamir Khan remembered Dharmendra as he got a bit emotional and revealed that the legendary star watched Sunny Deols yet unreleased movie Lahore 1947 produced by Khan himself. Aamir Khan also recalled getting mesmerised by Dharmendras command over the Hindustani language and further called him a gentle giant.

 Instagram/Dharmendra Aamir Khan Get Emotional Remembering Dharmendra Remembering Dharmendra, Aamir said, We've lost a really amazing talent, I would say, and someone who we can all really learn from even now as we watch his films. And he had such a command of his language. I mean, his Hindustani was so, itni saaf unki zubaan thi (his language had such precision), it was amazing to hear him. He continued, Even in live events, when he would speak, he had such grace, amazing grace. You know, I remember I was there at the book launch for Yusuf Saab Dilip Kumar Ji. And there he spoke, he spoke so, in such dignity and really, it's a big loss for all of us.

He went on to reveal, And I'm fortunate I got to spend some time with him. In fact, Lahore (1947), the film we've made with Sunny, I had the good fortune of showing him the film. So he's seen the film. It's not released yet, of course. But I was so glad because this was one of his favorite scripts. This is Rajkumar Santoshi's? Yeah, yeah. Okay. So I'm so glad he got to see the film there. Lovely. Check out the clip below:

Aamir Khan On Missing Dharmendras Prayer Meet He also mentioned how he is missing Dharmendras prayer meet held in Mumbai on November 27, Today, in fact, Im not there in Mumbai, but today is his prayer meeting, unfortunately. Im missing it. And I was very close to him because in the last, I would say last one year, I must have met him about 7-8 times. Because I used to really enjoy his company so I used to go and sit with him. He was so gentle. No matter who he would meet, whether its a colleague or someone not from the industry, he would always be very warm and soft in meeting people. So, he was a wonderful person, he was a great actor, and its a great loss for all of us. On making his younger son Azad meet Dharmendra, Aamir said, I used to go and sit with him. One day, I took Azad with me, my son. I said, I want you to meet someone, because Azad has not seen his work really. But he came with me and we spent a couple of hours with him and it was really wonderful.
New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, who recently went viral for his dramatic exit to the Dhoom Machaale track and proudly claimed to be a Bollywood buff, found himself in an amusingly embarrassing situation when tested on his Hindi cinema knowledge. Zohran Mamdani claimed to be a Bollywood fan but failed to guess Shah Rukh Khan's songs. Despite managing to answer one question correctly, Mamdani struggled with the rest. Still, he proved his love for Bollywood by resorting to its greatest superpower: performing the legendary Shah Rukh Khan pose with perfect flair.

 Instagram/Zohran Mamdani During a recent interview, British journalist Mehdi Hasan steered the conversation in a lighter direction, announcing that he had a quick quiz lined up. Although Mamdani warned that Hasan was setting him up for failure, they went ahead anyway. I want to be very clear, I am going to fail this, Mamdani said as Hasan revealed that the segment was called Guess the Bollywood song. As the journalist began playing a track on his phone, the New York City mayor-designate identified it almost instantly and rightly guessed Chaiyya Chaiyya from the Shah Rukh Khan and Manisha Koirala-starrer Dil Se (1998). Although Mamdani managed to heave a sigh of relief, the happiness was short-lived as Hasan played another track, and the former had zero clue what it was. You have made it very unnecessarily tense now, Hasan said, as Mamdani began headbanging to the song. Quipping that the segment should have included the Call a friend option, like on the television game show Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, the politician admitted he didnt know the song;Its the Time to Discofrom Kal Ho Naa Ho (2003).
A North Carolina man, a veteran with no criminal record, went to prison on Wednesday after getting caught driving a U-Haul across Nebraska with more than a half-ton of marijuana and four guns inside.

John Silsby, 42, wanted the judge to know he had no idea it was illegal, a statement Lancaster County District Judge Jodi Nelson said she simply didn't believe.

"Whether marijuana is legal or not, there is no state in this country where you can transport, as a private person, 1,200 pounds of it legally," she said.

Nelson said if he had believed that, Silsby would've told the sheriff's deputy that when he stopped him in the rented U-Haul at about noon March 7, not far from the Waverly exit of Interstate 80, for swerving in his lane.

She said Silsby also didn't tell deputies the truth about what was in the truck or the loaded weapon he had on him. Now, he wants her to believe he was duped.

"I don't believe that for a minute," the judge said.

After a drug dog alerted to the smell of drugs, deputies searched the U-Haul and in a locked cargo area found 1,129 pounds of marijuana, 1 pound of concentrated marijuana, 3 pounds of psilocybin mushrooms and about 133 pounds of THC products, according to the affidavit for Silsby's arrest.

Deputies also found three more firearms inside the truck, along with several knives and $1,116 cash.

He pleaded no contest to possession with intent to deliver marijuana and possession of a firearm while doing it.

At sentencing Wednesday, his attorney, Abbie Steiner, argued for probation, given his history of military service and a traumatic brain injury that affected his decision-making.

Nelson said the case was unique because Silsby had a decorated military history and led a law-abiding life before this. But she said he has committed serious felonies.

She said she believes he was lured by fast money.

Silsby admitted he was getting paid $10,000 for flying to California to pick up the U-Haul and driving it across the country, which he said was "not enough" when he got caught. He said he'd done it once before.

Nelson called it a business deal where Silsby had weighed the risks and rewards.

"This is not something I can ignore," she said, sentencing him to six to 10 years in prison.

 2025 Lincoln Journal Star, Neb. Visit www.journalstar.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.


KHERSON, Ukraine (AP)  When Olena Horlova leaves home or drives through town outside the southern Ukrainian city of Kherson, she fears that she's a target. She believes that Russian drones could be waiting on a rooftop, along the road or aiming for her car.

To protect herself and her two daughters, the girls stay indoors, and she stays alert  sometimes returning home at night along dark roads without headlights so as not to be seen.

After living through the occupation, refusing to cooperate with Russian forces and hiding from them, Horlova, like so many other residents, found that even after her town was liberated in 2022, the ordeal didn't end.

Kherson was among the first places where Russian forces began using short-range, first-person view, or FPV, drones against civilians. The drones are equipped with livestreaming cameras that let operators see and select their targets in real time. The tactic later spread more than 300 kilometers (185 miles) along the right bank of the Dnipro River, across the Dnipropetrovsk, Kherson and Mykolaiv regions.

The United Nations' Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine says the attacks leave little doubt about their intent. In an October report, the commission said that the attacks have repeatedly killed and wounded civilians, destroyed homes and forced thousands to flee, concluding that they amount to the crimes against humanity of murder and forcible transfer.

We live with the hope that one day this will finally end, Horlova said, her voice trembling. What matters for us is a cease-fire, or for the front line to be pushed further away. Then it would be easier for us.

Hunting those who survived

Horlova lives in Komyshany, a village just outside Kherson and only 4 kilometers (2 miles) from the Dnipro River, where the level of intense attacks has remained the same, despite Ukrainian forces retaking the city from Russian occupation in November 2022  about nine months after Russia launched its full-scale invasion on Feb. 24 of that year.

But the war didn't end there. Instead, it shifted into a phase in which the area has effectively become what locals and the military term a human safari, describing it as a testing ground where people are often the target of drone attacks.

Horlova says that FPVs often land on rooftops when their batteries run low and then wait out.

When people, cars or even a cyclist appear, the drone suddenly lifts off and drops the explosive, she said. Its gotten to the point where they even drop them on animals  cows, goats.

She believes that civilians are hunted as revenge for the celebrations that broke out when Kherson was liberated.

The report from the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine says the attacks have spread terror among civilians and violated their right to life and other fundamental human rights. Investigators found that Russian units on the occupied left bank of the Dnipro carried out the strikes and identified specific drone units, operators and commanders involved. They also noted that Russian Telegram channels routinely share videos of the attacks, often with mocking captions and threats of more.

The U.N. commission said that it examined Russian claims that Ukrainian forces had launched drone attacks on civilians in occupied areas, unable to conclude its investigation because it lacked access to the territory, couldn't ensure witness safety and didn't receive answers from Russian authorities.

Invisible dome

Interceptions obtained by The Associated Press from the 310th Separate Marine Electronic Warfare Battalion show Russian FPV drones that appear to be hunting for vehicles. The videos capture drones flying low over roads and locking onto moving or parked cars  often pickups, supply vehicles, sedans and even clearly marked ambulances  before diving for a strike.

The commander of the 310th Battalion, which protects the skies over 470 kilometers (nearly 300 miles) of southern Ukraine, including Kherson, says at least 300 drones fly toward the city every day. In October alone, the number of drones that flew over Kherson was 9,000.

This area is like a training ground, said the battalions commander, Dmytro Liashok, a 16-year military veteran and one of Ukraines early pioneers in electronic warfare. They bring new Russian crews here to gain experience before sending them elsewhere. The AP couldn't independently verify the claim.

Despite the sheer volume of drones  a figure that excludes other types of weapons like artillery and glide bombs  his forces manage to neutralize more than 90%, he said.

According to the U.N. human rights office, short-range drone attacks have become the leading cause of civilian casualties near the front line. Local authorities say that since July 2024, more than 200 civilians have been killed and more than 2,000 wounded in three southern regions, with most victims being men. Nearly 3,000 homes have been damaged or destroyed.

During a surprise visit to Kherson in November, Angelina Jolie described the constant overhead threat as a heavy presence.

There was a moment when we had to pause and wait while a drone flew overhead, she wrote on Instagram. I was in protective gear, and for me it was just a couple of days. The families here live with this every single day.

Human hunting

At one of Khersons main hospitals treating drone victims, 70-year-old Nataliia Naumova is recovering after a strike by a Shahed drone, which carries a heavier explosive than FPV drones, left her with a blast injury to her left leg on Oct. 20.

She says the strike hit during the night as she waited at a school in the village of Inzhenerne, where she had been temporarily sheltered, for an evacuation bus that was due to arrive the next morning.

There were so many drones flying over us, she said, adding that she rarely left home even after its windows were shattered and boarded up. People there survive, not live. I never thought such a tragedy would happen to me.

Dr. Yevhen Haran, the hospitals deputy medical chief, says the injuries from drone strikes range from amputations to fatal wounds.

Its simply hunting for people. Theres no other name for it, he said.

He says patients wounded in Russian attacks, including drone strikes, arrive at the hospital every day. Last month alone, it treated 85 inpatients and 105 outpatients with blast injuries, all from shelling and drone strikes. It's also the only hospital in the area equipped to handle the most serious cases.

Haran himself came under FPV drone fire on Aug. 26 while driving from nearby Mykolaiv with his wife. Rescuers stopped their car on the highway, warning that a drone was overhead.

I pulled in behind them. The drone circled and, on the next pass, flew straight into their vehicle  the drivers door, he recalled. Shrapnel tore through the front car, while his, parked behind, shielded him.

He reached the hospital with a hypertensive crisis and was later treated for a concussion. Sometimes I still lose words and feel unsteady, he said. It all happened in less than 10 minutes.

For people in Kherson, the experience of occupation, and the moment the city was freed, still shapes how they endure the constant drone attacks.

We held out until liberation  well hold out until peace as well, he said.

___

Associated Press reporters Yehor Konovalov and Volodymyr Yurchuk in Kyiv, Ukraine, contributed to this report.
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu named a former intelligence chief as his top envoy to the U.S. seeking to ease tensions after President Donald Trump warned of possible military action over claims that Christians are being systematically killed by Islamist militants in the West African nation.

Ayodele Oke, a former director-general of Nigerias National Intelligence Agency, was nominated as ambassador to the U.S., alongside retired Colonel Lateef Kayode Are to the UK and Amin Mohammed Dalhatu to France, the presidency said in a statement on Thursday. The postings will be finalized following Senate screening, it said.

The president also named the members of the Nigerian side of a U.S.- Nigeria working group, to deepen collaboration on security, according to an emailed statement.

The Nigerian team will be headed by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, who led a delegation to the U.S. this month to engage senior members of Trumps team and some U.S. lawmakers over the notion of deliberate killing of Christians. The creation of the joint working group on security was one of the outcomes of that meeting, the statement said.

Nigeria has had no substantive diplomatic representation in Washington since Tinubu recalled all ambassadors in 2023. The gap has become more glaring as tensions with the U.S. have escalated.

Earlier this month, Trump said in a Truth Social post that hed told the Pentagon to prepare for possible action in Nigeria and threatened to cut off U.S. aid. He later claimed Christians were being killed in very large numbers.

In the days after his comments, nearly 400 people, including primary and secondary school students, were abducted in a series of attacks that prompted the president to cancel a planned trip to the G-20 summit in South Africa, and an African Union-European Union heads-of-state meeting in Angola. While some of those abducted have since been released, more than 250 pupils and teachers who were seized from a Catholic school on Nov. 22. remain in captivity.

Tinubu on Wednesday declared a security emergency and directed the military and intelligence agencies to accelerate recruitment, saying there will be no more hiding places for agents of evil. He asked the secret police to deploy guards to flush out the terrorists and bandits lurking in forests.

The idea of a genocide against Christians in Nigeria has been floating around right-wing circles in the West for years. It was brought up by Trump during his first term in office and has gained traction in recent months. Tinubu has denied that any religious group is being singled out.

The nation of 230 million people  roughly split between Muslims and Christians  has a long history of ethnic violence driven by access to resources such as land and water, and terrorism by the likes of jihadist groups Boko Haram and Islamic State.

_____

With assistance from Rene Vollgraaff and Moses Mozart Dzawu.

_____

2025 Bloomberg News. Visit at bloomberg.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation has collapsed, abruptly ending its operations as a new U.S. led military coordination body prepares to oversee and coordinate aid distribution in the territory.

The U.S.- and Israel-backed relief effort that began operating in late May shut down permanently this week in Gaza, deepening an already severe access gap for civilians as the U.S.-led Civil Military Coordination Center (CMCC) moves to coordinate aid delivery, security and movement across the war-torn strip.

On Nov. 24 the group announced it was ending its Gaza operations, calling its emergency mission complete. In the days that followed, governments, aid groups and analysts treated the move as a permanent shutdown or in effect a full collapse of the program.

Trucks carrying commercial goods drive through Gaza City after entering from Israel via the Zikim crossing, northern Gaza Strip, Thursday, Nov. 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Jehad Alshrafi)

It has no impact on our operations because we never worked with them, a United Nations spokesperson told Military.com, underscoring that the organization operated outside the U.N. led humanitarian system.

The collapse comes as Gaza faces ongoing shortages of food, water and medical supplies and as families displaced by months of fighting remain without stable shelter.

A Controversial Model Unravels

The foundation was launched as an alternative to traditional humanitarian channels and used privately operated secured distribution hubs. Supporters said that approach could limit aid diversion and accelerate delivery. Critics said it posed safety risks for civilians, threatened impartiality, and lacked transparency.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio speaks with US military personnel as he visits the Civil-Military Coordination Center in southern Israel, Friday, Oct. 24, 2025. (Fadel Senna/Pool Photo via AP)

Residents and monitoring organizations described crowded, confusing conditions at distribution points, limited access for vulnerable populations and security incidents along approach routes. Experts questioned whether a model secured by private contractors could meet internationally accepted standards for neutrality and impartiality.

Despite those concerns, the foundation maintained that its model delivered food and supplies to civilians in desperate need.

CMCC Steps into New Role

The Civil Military Coordination Center tied to ceasefire implementation and backed by the United States is now expected to oversee and coordinate aid related logistics for Gaza. Key operational details remain undisclosed.

Premature babies lie in incubators at the neonatal intensive care unit of Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Jehad Alshrafi)

Questions remain about how access will be managed, who will control security, and whether independent humanitarian groups will be allowed to operate without military or political constraints. Aid specialists warn that perception alone of aid delivery under a military-linked structure may deter civilians from seeking help.

Military.com reached out to the U.S. State Department, the Defense Department, Israeli authorities, Palestinian officials and multiple international humanitarian organizations for comment. Some did not respond before publication while others declined to comment.

Humanitarian Conditions Remain Critical

Hospitals in Gaza remain overwhelmed. Access to clean water remains inconsistent. Malnutrition and shortages of medical supplies continue to be reported among vulnerable populations. Aid observers say any disruption in aid delivery could worsen already dire conditions for children, the elderly and the chronically ill.

A makeshift tent stands amid widespread devastation in Gaza City Thursday, Nov. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Jehad Alshrafi)

In other regions of conflict, limited scope missions that began with narrow goals have expanded into long-term, open-ended operations, increasing instability and complicating humanitarian access.

In Gaza, more than 1,000 civilians have reportedly been killed since May while attempting to reach food assistance, highlighting the extreme danger faced by those seeking aid when distribution systems break down or become disorganized.

The shutdown is more than the end of one aid group and may redefine how humanitarian aid is managed in future conflict zones. A shift toward militarized coordination, private contractors and ad hoc systems continues to raise concerns among international aid communities about impartiality, transparency and long-term access.
At dawn on October 25, 1944, the U.S. Navy escort-carrier group Taffy 3 sighted the Imperial Japanese Navys remaining battleship fleet approaching from the northern horizon off Samarfour battleships, six heavy cruisers, two light cruisers, and 11 destroyers led by Vice Adm. Takeo Kurita.

Taffy 3consisting of six escort carriers, three destroyers, and four destroyer escortswas there to cover troops storming the Philippine beaches, not to duel a surface fleet that included the Yamato, the largest battleship ever built. But there was no one else between Kurita and the invasion fleet in Leyte Gulf.

An American Destroyer at the Battle of Leyte Gulf

USS Johnston, a Fletcher-class destroyer under Cmdr. Ernest E. Evans reacted first. Only a year earlier, Evans had told his crew, This is going to be a fighting ship. I intend to go in harms way, and anyone who doesnt want to go along had better get off right now.

He made good on that pledge at Samar. The Johnston maneuvered to lay down a smoke screen to cover the carriers, then turned toward the Japanese fleet. Evans ordered the ship at flank speed, closing to torpedo range while under heavy fire. She launched all ten torpedoes at the lead Japanese heavy cruiser Kumano. At least one struck home, blowing off Kumanos bow and forcing her out of action while its sister ship Suzuya, broke off to escort the crippled cruiser.

The return fire was devastating. Shells smashed into the Johnston, disabling her radio and an engine while killing or wounding multiple sailors, but the destroyer re-entered the fight. Her 5-inch guns raked the heavy cruiser Chikuma and helped set up later air attacks that finished that ship; she also fired on battleship Kongo, forcing the larger ship to maneuver away.

The U.S. Navy destroyer USS Johnston (DD-557) off Seattle, Washington (USA), on 27 October 1943. Smith Tower is in the background over the bow of the ship. The Johnston would charge the Japanese battleship fleet at Samar, causing severe damage before it was destroyed by enemy fire. (Wikimedia Commons)

Taffy 3's Counterattack at Samar

Inspired by Evans charge, the rest of Taffy 3s screens joined the counterattack. USS Hoel and USS Heermann, along with destroyer escort Samuel B. Roberts, made their own torpedo runs through overwhelming fire and shell splashes. Meanwhile, Avengers and Wildcats from the carriers came off the decks with whatever they could carry, including depth charges when the bombs and torpedoes were gone.

The stunning defensesmoke screens, aggressive destroyer attacks at close range, and constant air strikesthrew Kuritas fleet into confusion. Ships were badly damaged, others fell out of formation or were ordered to cover crippled ships, while the tiny American destroyers wreaked havoc. Three Japanese heavy cruisers (Chikuma, Chokai, Suzuya) were lost before the day was over.

The Johnston turned again and followed the other screens into the battle despite her extensive damage. The ship fought for hours, darting in and out of rain squalls, trading fire with ships many times her size. One torpedomen later recalled, We got off all ten torpedoes, and they ran hot, straight, and normal!

The mighty and feared Yamato bore its massive guns onto the tiny American ship, which it mistakenly identified as a cruiser. The Yamato fired an entire broadside of armor-piercing shells, designed to sink other heavy ships, which blasted right through the Johnston. One shell tore through the bridge, severely injuring Evans and killing most of his command staff.

By about 9:30 a.m., she had taken more than twenty hits; steering and power failed, and she was dead in the water under concentrated cruiser and destroyer fire. Survivors remembered the ship so riddled they couldnt patch holes fast enough to keep her afloat.

Cmdr. Evans finally ordered abandon ship around 9:45 a.m. Johnston rolled and sank just after 10:00; only 141 of her 327 crewmembers survived, and Evans was among the missing. He was later posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic charge and sacrifice at Samar.

Lieutenant Commander Ernest E. Evans, U.S. Navy (1908-1944) at the commissioning ceremonies of the destroyer USS Johnston (DD-557) at Seattle, Washington (USA), on 27 October 1943. He was Johnston's Commanding Officer from then until she was sunk in the Battle off Samar, 25 October 1944, and was lost with the ship. (Wikimedia Commons)

The Wreck of the USS Johnston

The effects of Johnstons charge are admirable. Her torpedo strikes crippled Kumano; sustained close gunnery harassed and damaged numerous heavy cruisers; aggressive runs by all three destroyers repeatedly forced Japanese capital ships to avoid torpedo wakes and give up gunfire solutions.

The chaos bought priceless minutes for the carriers to flee east, launch continuous air strikes, and steadily annihilate the attackers. The resultthree heavy cruisers lost and a Japanese naval withdrawalwhich preserved the beachhead and ensured victory in the Philippines.

The Japanese fleet was all but destroyed during the overarching Battle of Leyte Gulf, the largest naval battle in history. The Yamato was later sunk by American aircraft during the Okinawa Campaign, ending any last hope for a Japanese victory in the Pacific.

Photo taken from inside the submersible DSV Limiting Factor by pilot Victor Vescovo during a dive on 31 March 2021 to 6,425 meters. The dive found the wreck of the USS Johnston, which sacrificed itself at Samar. (Wikimedia Commons)

From 2019 to 2021, several submersible teams located and surveyed the main wreck of the Johnston at 6,456 meters below the surface. Her hull number, 557, was still visible after decades underwater. It was the deepest located shipwreck in history, until the Samuel B. Roberts was found nearby the following year at 6,895 meters.

Johnstons fight off Samar remains one of the most courageous actions ever attempted at sea. A 2,700-ton destroyer and her crew charged against certain death against overwhelming power, managing to inflict severe damage on the enemy, and helped trigger a retreat that protected an entire invasion. Though she was lost during the battle, the tiny destroyer helped turn back the largest battleship ever built.

The ship and the men who sailed on her earned a Presidential Unit Citation and are remembered as the tiny American destroyer that took on Japans massive battleship fleet.
In his youth, Randy Ark enjoyed an idyllic childhood growing up in the rural parts of Clark County, Ohio.

That feeling of innocence was shattered when Ark became a medic in Vietnam, getting an up close and personal look at the atrocities of war.

Ark, 77, recently wrote two memoirs about his experiences, Everyone Has a Story: A Combat Medics Tale, and The Autobiography of Randall W. Ark, which reflects upon a youth spent in west-central Ohio in the 1950s and 60s.

Ark said his experience in Vietnam molded him into the man he became. As he grew older, Ark, a retired teacher, felt the urge to share his stories with friends, family and the local community near Springfield, Ohio. Ark describes his life as a small-town boy who had to become a man quickly through bloodshed and death in the jungles of Vietnam.

Writing as Therapy

Writing proved therapeutic for Ark. Hes been receiving positive reviews for his books from not just friends but also strangers.

It has helped me to examine what was important to me in my life and why I remembered certain things and not others, Ark told the Springfield News-Sun. Its funny how when one memory comes to mind, another memory is triggered. I also discovered and realized how blessed I am, that there are so many blessings I have received that I should never take for granted.

In 1967, Uncle Sam came calling, drafting Ark into the U.S. Army. His book provides a fully detailed account of his military experience from passing his physical, the highs and lows of basic training and surviving Vietnam as a medic. Ark writes about treating wounded soldiers and the lengths he went to try and keep them alive.

Randy Ark showing off his Purple Heart. Ark was injured saving other soldiers in Vietnam but didn't receive the honor until 2021. (Submitted photo)

War as Reality Check

As Ark continued to write, more memories came flooding back. Like the time he treated a soldier lying face-down on a gurney, scared for his life. He heard Arks voice and realized they attended basic training together. The brief interaction provided the soldier with a sense of comfort and reminded Ark why he was there.

I admired what they did and acknowledged their bravery, he said. Being surrounded by your peers in black bags, you get a sense youre not invincible and its a reality check.

Ark wasnt spared from combat injuries. In 2021, more than 50 years after coming home from war, Ark was honored with a Purple Heart. Hes also received three Army Commendation Medals.

Despite leaving the Army, Ark continued to support veterans. He joined local veterans groups and lent his writing chops to profiling veterans for a weekly feature in the Springfield News-Sun. Hes still involved with a local Purple Heart organization.

I hope the book can make me available to other experiences and other avenues to help veterans and their families, said Ark.

Readers have praised Arks writing style, saying his narrative makes them feel like theyre in the thick of the Vietnam jungles with him. It was enough to make his publisher hungry for more Ark stories, hence, The Autobiography of Randall W. Ark was born.

Growing up in the 1950s

Arks follow-up to his first memoir traces his childhood experiences on a farm near Springfield, developing friendships, and life in school.

It was a nice way to be raised and turned out to be a good way to grow up. You develop close relationships, said Ark.

From the dangers of playground equipment in the 1950s to the thrill of a 25-cent allowance, Arks writing blends nostalgia with a twist of humor.

Does the former Army medic have a third book in mind? The budding author hasnt ruled it out, but for now, theres nothing in the works. Ark told the Springfield News-Sun that he would like to connect with other veterans wanting to share their own stories. His goal is to keep writing engaging stories readers cant get enough of.

Im glad I wrote things down when I did, Ark said.
Intellectual freedom is a key component of our constitutional republic where democratic thinking and citizenship are strengthened from free speech and access to knowledge. It leads to diverse viewpoints, innovative ideas, debates, and information sharing. Colleges and universities promote this through academic freedom, allowing the expression of individual thought and ability to seek different ideas without interference or censorship. In military academies and educational institutions, these freedoms are somewhat regulated in the name of military force readiness and national security.

President Trumps Restoring Americas Fighting Force Executive Order in January 2025 sought to address ideological extremism or preferences, noting that the Armed Forces should operation free of discrimination. In doing so, the administrations goals included unit cohesion and meritocracy while rejecting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) ideals. The White House issued other orders this year related to accreditation reform, restoration of truth and sanity in American history, HBCUs, and transparency regarding the enforcement of foreign funding in higher education. In fact, the White House has restlessly been working to reform American education consciousness and systems.

Recently, the White House initiated a Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education, starting with nine universities and colleges in October 2025. Of the nine universities, none have accepted the invitation. Over 35 higher education associations and organizations, including the American Council on Education (ACE), opposed this Compact due to government overreach on academic freedom and autonomy.

Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education

While feedback was requested with an openness to revision on the proposed Compact, the fundamental issue of its provisions requiring compliance with certain policies caused concern. According to the Hunton firms Insights on legal updates, some of the key takeaways of these provisions state that signatories must safeguard academic freedom while also recognizing that academic freedom is not absolute in the sense that free speech does not include incitement to illegal activities. Even though the original invitees did not join the Compact, some are still open to discussion while other colleges and universities expressed their desire to support the Compact. See below.

Original Invited List of Higher Education Institutions

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Brown University

University of Pennsylvania

University of Southern California

University of Virginia

University of Arizona

Dartmouth College

The University of Texas at Austin

Vanderbilt University

Higher Education Institutions with Potential Interest in the Compact

Valley Forge Military College

New College of Florida

Grand Canyon University

St. Augustine University

NEWPORT, R.I. A U.S. Naval War College (NWC) student asks questions after U.S. Space Force Chief of Space Operations Gen. Chance Saltzman speaks about the implications of spaces transformation into as a warfighting domain, onboard Naval Station Newport, RI, April 1, 2025. The lecture, part of the colleges Lectures of Opportunity (LOO) series, discussed defending space capabilities and protecting joint and combined forces against space-enabled attacks. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Connor Burns, DVIDS)

Overall Takeaway

Signatories of the Compact would have to agree to a specific set of rules with the federal government. These rules appear to align with the White Houses Executive Orders related to promoting merit-based (in contrast to DEI language) accreditation, admissions, and employment practices in addition to the disclosure of foreign funding and propaganda from foreign governments. It requires neutrality on political and social issues and events at higher education institutions. It removes gender ideology and aims to protect discourse on conservative values at colleges and universities. It also mandates that Joint Service Transcripts transfer credits be fully accepted, which may not always work in favor of the military-connected student. Read What You Should Know About Your Joint Services Transcript to fully understand those implications.

As higher education institutions determine their involvement in the Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education, they must ensure that intellectual and academic freedoms remain intact. Colleges and universities have historically been rooted with a deep responsibility to the development and improvement of our society through education and training programs. How the Compact will influence intellectual and academic freedoms of speech, data reporting, and institutional autonomy from federal government oversight remains to be seen.
Military families are raising new concerns about mold and moisture issues in base housing in 2025, even as a recent Department of Defense Inspector General audit shows that oversight gaps are still leaving residents vulnerable. While federal inspectors did not see visible mold during their visits, the new findings reveal conditions that can allow mold to grow unnoticed and point to uneven standards across the military services.

Oversight Teams Flag Missed Warning Signs in 2025 Audit

A September 2025 audit of seven Hunt Military Communities installations showed that housing offices lacked the tools and procedures needed to prevent and detect mold. Inspectors found that some windows had been sealed shut at one installation to block access to aging lead-based paint. The sealed windows prevented ventilation and limited the ability to escape during a fire or emergency.

The DoD OIG told Military.com that housing officials also lacked devices to check humidity levels in homes. They were not inspecting attics or crawl spaces, areas where mold can grow without families seeing it. These gaps make it harder for residents and base staff to catch moisture problems before they become serious.

We did not observe mold or moisture-related issues during our visits, but Military Housing Office staff did not have the proper tools to check humidity levels in the homes.

The OIGs comments make clear that the absence of visible mold does not mean conditions are safe. Without proper tools and inspections, moisture problems can develop out of sight.

A tree in front of a house.

Past Moisture Problems Still Trouble Families at Some Bases

Even though inspectors did not see active mold, families at two installations told the audit team that they had faced moisture problems in the past. Residents at Randolph Air Force Base and Fort Sam Houston said they had dealt with mold or water intrusion before Hunt Military Communities completed remediation work.

Those accounts line up with what families across the services have said for years. Many report that moisture problems return after repairs, often due to older HVAC systems, roof leaks, or poor ventilation. For some families, mold becomes a recurring issue that affects their health and forces repeated maintenance visits.

Uneven Maintenance Standards Leave Families With Different Levels of Support

One of the most important findings in the 2025 audit was not about individual homes. It was about the system itself. The OIG found that each military service uses its own definitions for life, health, and safety hazards. They also categorize work orders differently. A problem considered urgent at one base might be labeled routine at another.

These differences create a patchwork of standards. Families with similar complaints can wait very different lengths of time for repairs based on where they live and who runs their housing office. Advocates say this inconsistency allows problems to go unchecked and leaves families unsure about what to expect.

The Military Services are providing disparate levels of service for families residing at different locations.

For many residents, this inconsistency is one of the most frustrating parts of the privatized housing system.

New Federal Review Targets Mold Hazards Through 2026

In addition to the 2025 audit, the DoD OIG is running a separate evaluation focused entirely on mold hazards in privatized military housing. Announced in late 2024, the review examines how DoD uses its authorities under the Military Housing Privatization Initiative to enforce maintenance standards.

This evaluation will run into 2026. It aims to determine whether housing companies and the military services are identifying and addressing mold concerns early enough. The Pentagon has agreed with the OIGs recommendations and has begun corrective actions, but the recommendations will stay open until documentation proves that repairs, inspections, and oversight improvements are in place.

Congress has also provided new oversight funding in the FY2026 budget to support these efforts.

Recent Lawsuits and Testing Show Moisture Issues Persist Nationwide

Despite repair programs and federal reviews, families continue to report mold issues in homes across the country. In 2025, several MacDill Air Force Base families filed a lawsuit after discovering what they described as extremely high levels of mold behind walls and inside HVAC systems. The families reported repeated illnesses and said maintenance fixes did not address underlying moisture problems.

Other bases have seen rising work orders related to water intrusion and HVAC failures. In 2024, the Air and Space Forces recorded more than 4,500 mold-related reports in privatized housing. New data for 2025 suggests those numbers could grow, especially at larger or older installations.

Families Turn to New Independent Survey to Track Conditions

To better understand the scope of the problem, Change the Air Foundation launched the Safe Military Housing Survey in October 2025. It is the largest independent effort to gather real-time feedback from military families living in privatized housing.

The survey covers mold, water leaks, pests, air quality, maintenance response times, and overall trust in housing companies. Early responses show that moisture problems and past mold exposure remain common concerns, even at bases not mentioned in the recent audit.

Advocates say the survey gives families a voice in a system where formal complaints often go underreported. Many residents fear using the dispute process or worry that filing complaints could affect their housing options.

What Service Members Should Pay Attention To Moving Forward

The next year will be important for families living in privatized housing. The new OIG evaluation, updated congressional oversight, and the release of survey findings in 2026 could lead to changes in inspections, work order standards, and contractor accountability.

Service members can take several steps to protect themselves:

Document moisture or mold issues with photos

Request maintenance through official work order systems

Ask whether humidity and ventilation checks have been completed

Follow base guidance on safe remediation and temporary lodging

Use Military.com housing resources, including the BAH calculator, when weighing on-base and off-base options

Military leaders say safe housing is essential for readiness. Families say they want consistent standards, clear timelines, and reliable fixes that prevent mold and moisture problems from coming back.

Sources
Holidays carry enormous emotional weight. They mark time, culture, and memory, and they often shape how people interpret events far beyond their original meaning. In war, they can create rare moments when humanity briefly interrupts the violence. The history of holiday ceasefires shows these pauses are fragile, short lived, and shaped far more by battlefield conditions than by sentiment.

A Rare Truce in the Civil War

Holiday ceasefires are not limited to European history. During the American Civil War, Union and Confederate troops observed a small Christmas truce in 1862 along the Rappahannock River. Soldiers on both sides stopped firing, called greetings across the water, and shared small goods such as coffee, tobacco, and newspapers. Military.com notes that the truce developed informally and without direction from leadership, as soldiers recognized a moment of shared humanity during a harsh winter.

The pause lasted only a day, and firing resumed afterward. Contemporary accounts from Union and Confederate soldiers describe the truce as informal and short-lived, with exchanges ending once daylight returned. The Library of Congress records multiple letters and diary entries documenting similar one-day pauses in 1862, none of which continued beyond Christmas.

The event remains one of the few documented holiday ceasefires in American military history, and the Military.com analysis of the 1862 truce underscores that it developed spontaneously, depended entirely on local conditions, and was never replicated at scale.

British troops from the Northumberland Hussars, 7th Division, Bridoux-Rouge Banc Sector and German soldiers and medical personnel meeting in No-Mans's Land during the Christmas truce, 25th December 1914 (Wikimedia Commons).

The Most Famous Holiday Truce

The best-known holiday ceasefire occurred in 1914 during the First World War. British and German soldiers in sections of the Western Front paused fighting on Christmas Eve, sang carols across the lines, exchanged small gifts, and held joint burials.

The truce never reappeared on the same scale. High commands quickly issued orders prohibiting fraternization, and by Christmas 1915, the war had intensified enough to make such a pause impossible. The episode showed that holiday ceasefires work only when frontline conditions, morale, and operational pressure allow them to. Once those dynamics shift, sentiment cannot overcome the demands of the war.

Ceasefires in the Vietnam War

Holiday truces in the Vietnam War were more limited and more controlled. The Pentagon announced brief stand-downs on Christmas and New Years, but they lasted for hours rather than days. Even these short pauses were sometimes violated. North Vietnamese and Viet Cong forces sometimes used them to reposition units, conduct small attacks, or test American responses. As a result, commanders treated the truces as symbolic gestures rather than operational breaks. The irregular and asymmetric nature of the conflict limited the value of any holiday pause.

The Korean War and the Collapse of Holiday Calm

Holiday ceasefires were even rarer in the Korean War. On Thanksgiving Day in 1950, United Nations forces led by the United States were conducting major operations in North Korea during the Chosin campaign. As documented by PBS, units were on the move and under threat even as commanders arranged turkey dinners at the front.

The conditions of the war did not permit a pause. The Chinese entry into the conflict had altered every assumption about the battlefield. Commanders could not accept any interruption when momentum and survival were at stake. The Korean example reinforces the idea that ceasefires occur only when both sides see value in restraint.

Modern Conflicts and the End of Shared Calendars

In the post 9/11 wars, holiday ceasefires became even more unlikely. Insurgent groups in Iraq and Afghanistan did not share American cultural or religious calendars, and holidays such as Thanksgiving or Christmas held no significance for them. Coverage of holiday deployments shows that U.S. units frequently carried out missions on Thanksgiving because their opponents treated it like any other day.

Thanksgiving meals were often served when missions allowed, not during a pause in fighting. Holidays functioned as brief moments of comfort rather than operational breaks.

Soldiers from Company B, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Task Force Duke, enjoy Thanksgiving dinner at Combat Outpost Sabari, Nov. 24. Leaders from their battalion and brigade traveled all over TF Duke's area of operations in Khowst, visiting the most outlying COPs to share the Thanksgiving holiday with the troops stationed there. Photo by Travis Dettmer. Source: DVIDS

When Holiday Ceasefires Work

Successful holiday ceasefires generally share two features. The first is mutual interest in reducing tension for a brief period. The second is a shared cultural or religious meaning, giving both sides a reason to pause. These conditions are uncommon. During the Balkan conflicts of the 1990s, some commanders eased fighting around religious holidays, but the practice varied by region and faction.

In other conflicts, temporary humanitarian pauses have occurred around holidays, but they emerged from negotiations rather than spontaneous goodwill. Even when framed as holiday ceasefires, they were driven by diplomatic pressure and strategic calculation.

Why the United States Does Not Pause for Holidays

Unlike some European traditions, the United States has never adopted a consistent practice of halting military operations for holidays. American doctrine places the mission above symbolic gestures. Troops often conduct operations or remain on duty even when a holiday meal is served in the field.

Christmas and Thanksgiving are meaningful cultural markers at home, but they do not influence operational decision-making. Pausing operations would create predictable windows that adversaries could exploit. Commanders may allow units to eat holiday meals when the situation permits, but this is not the same as a ceasefire.

The Meaning of Holiday Ceasefires

Holiday ceasefires endure in memory not because they are common but because they are rare. They show that even in environments dominated by violence, there are moments when opposing soldiers recognize something shared, but these moments depend entirely on circumstances. When survival, strategy, or ideology defines a conflict, holidays do not hold enough power to interrupt combat. The few times they do occur remain reminders of the human possibilities that exist even in war.
The Red Sox have signed infielder Vinny Capra to a minor league deal, according to the transactions tracker on Capras MLB.com profile page.

Capra, 29, has played in the majors in parts of four seasons since making his big league debut back in 2022. A 20th-round pick by the Blue Jays in the 2018 draft, Capra climbed the minor league ladder until he made an eight-game cameo in Toronto throughout the 2022 campaign. He was non-tendered shortly thereafter, and while he re-signed with Toronto on a minor league deal he was traded to Pittsburgh in exchange for catcher Tyler Heineman in April of the 2023 campaign. Capra has been riding the waiver wire ever since, with brief stints in the majors and longer track records at Triple-A for each of the Pirates, Brewers, and White Sox organizations.

He spent the 2025 campaign with Milwaukee, Chicago, and the White Sox Triple-A affiliate in Charlotte. This season was by far Capras largest opportunity in the majors, as he appeared in 47 MLB games with 105 trips to the plate between the Brewers and White Sox after topping out at nine games and 21 trips to the plate across his three previous years as a big leaguer. Unfortunately, Capra didnt do much with the opportunity as he hit just .125/.157/.177 in that time, with a 23.8% strikeout rate against a microscopic 2.9% walk rate and just three extra-base hits.

It wasnt exactly a strong impression, but Capras ability to capably handle second and third base as well as shortstop and even occasional work in the outfield still makes him a solid depth piece for virtually any team on a minor league deal like this one. While hes yet to break through in the majors, his numbers at Triple-A are quite respectable, including a .286/.384/.440 slash line with Charlotte this year. That lifted his career line at Triple-A to .272/.368/.389 across 257 games.

For the Red Sox, Capra is unlikely to be much of a consideration for a big league bench job headed into Spring Training. The team seems likely to add at least one infielder, whether that be a reunion with Alex Bregman or the addition of a new bat like Kazuma Okamoto. That new addition will likely join Trevor Story and Marcelo Mayer as regulars on the infield, with players like Kristian Campbell, David Hamilton, Romy Gonzalez, Nate Eaton, Vaughn Grissom, Nick Sogard and Tristan Gray all also in the mix for time on the infield among players on the clubs 40-man roster. If injuries or a 40-man roster crunch thin out that group, perhaps then Capra could enter Spring Training in competition for a bench spot alongside players like Gray, Sogard, Grissom, and Eaton.
MACKINAC COUNTY, MI  As once-abundant Great Lakes whitefish slide toward population collapse, biologists are trying something that would have sounded far-fetched a decade ago: hauling live fish upriver and simply letting them go.

This month, the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians and partner scientists released nearly 200 adult whitefish into the upper Carp River. The translocation effort aims to get the fish to do what their ancestors did before the logging era destroyed Michigan river habitat  spawn and produce babies that eventually return on their own.

Were trying to get whitefish to imprint in the rivers, said Matt Herbert, a senior aquatic ecologist with The Nature Conservancy who helped coordinate the project. Our rivers can produce a lot of fish. Every walleye in Saginaw Bay is produced from rivers.

Our rivers still carry a lot of nutrients.

Whitefish, a backbone of tribal and commercial fisheries, have suffered a steep collapse in the lower Great Lakes as invasive zebra and quagga mussels strip out phytoplankton at the base of the food chain, leaving less food for native zooplankton and baby fish.

According to the Great Lakes Fishery Commission, whitefish recruitment has crashed by 7080 percent since the late 1990s in Lake Michigan and Lake Huron due to the combined effects of mussel-driven food scarcity and declining winter ice cover.

Newly introduced bipartisan Congressional legislation introduced this month would devote $500 million over the next decade to battling invasive mussels and scaling up large-scale suppression technologies on part with lamprey control efforts launched in the 1950s.

The translocation experiment is part of a wider scramble among tribal nations, state agencies and conservation groups to find resilient pathways for whitefish recovery.

One of those is reintroduction to rivers.

There is habitat below dams in Michigan that that they can use, said Herbert. River-spawning efforts may not boost populations into pre-decline numbers, but it stops the bleeding, and I think it actually starts to build things in a positive direction.

The Sault Tribe conducted two translocation events involving 50 fish on Nov. 1 and 142 more on Nov. 10. The fish, captured in a tribal commercial trap-net in northern Lake Huron, were transported by truck and fitted with acoustic transmitters before release.

They were really close to spawning, said Rusty Aikens, a fisheries coordinator with the Sault Tribe. A couple of females actually expressed eggs while we handled them and most of the males were ready to go.

Eight receivers placed along the river allow biologists to track how long the fish remain in the system. This fall is the second attempt to translocate fish into the Carp River. Last year, transmitters showed fish stayed about nine days before a rainstorm raised the river and flushed most downstream. That departure coincided with peak spawn timing, leaving researchers unsure whether the fish left because they spawned or because the river surged.

Thats why you do more than one year of data collection, Aikens said. Year one opened up more questions than it answered.

The Carp River is an ideal testbed for the project thats close to tribal headquarters, small enough to monitor effectively and full of the cobble substrate whitefish prefer.

This fall, tribal staff placed a dozen egg mats in the rivers rocky spawning habitat which theyll retrieve in December. Finding fertilized eggs would be a big win. Finding larval drift in the spring would be another. In five to seven years, the hope is that adults return.

The project is part of a cross-tribe working group that includes the Sault Tribe, Little Traverse Bay Bands, Bay Mills Indian Community, the Michigan DNR and the Nature Conservancy. The group meets monthly to trade data and coordinate efforts.

Much of the early restoration push has centered on the Jordan River in the Lower Peninsula, where the tribal and conservation partners have tested multiple techniques to get whitefish to imprint on tributaries again. In the last few years, crews stocked fertilized eggs using in-stream incubators and later tried placing eggs directly into rocky habitat.

Those trials produced larval fish drifting from the Jordan River mouth, but not enough data to determine which method works best.

We had high waters, so we had a difficult time like measuring that the way we wanted to, Herbert said. With the Carp River, the hope is to get the fish to do the spawning themselves.

Thats easier and cheaper than dealing with spawning and the eggs.

Its all kind of the same concept, Herbert said.

Herbert and Aikens said Michigan has far more potential whitefish habitat in its rivers than most people realize. Whitefish prefer the same rocky, cobble-bottom spawning grounds used by walleye and lake sturgeon and many Michigan tributaries still contain those features despite dams and industrial-era damage.

Herbert pointed to the Muskegon, Grand, Kalamazoo and St. Joseph rivers in lower Michigan as having suitable reaches below hydro dams. Restoration projects have already improved substrate conditions in places like the Kalamazoo River.

The strongest proof-of-concept comes from Wisconsins Green Bay tributaries where whitefish spontaneously re-established river runs in the last 10 to 15 years. Despite flowing through urban Green Bay with agricultural runoff and contaminated site issues, the Fox River now produces a nice whitefish run, Herbert said.

In the Upper Peninsula, the Menominee River has only a few miles of habitat below a dam in downtown Menominee but still supports productive spawning, Herbert said. The clearest sign Michigan rivers can still host whitefish came from the Escanaba River, where a spawning adult was found while electrofishing during early project surveys.

It would be nice to do this stuff in bigger tributaries, said Aikens. Measuring success in those big ones is kind of hard, so you start with these smaller ones. If we find out it works, then you can just apply it to bigger and scale it up.

The goal is to help nature along, Aikens said. We see the decline of whitefish as something we probably just cant stock our way out of.

Nature is capable of doing huge and amazing things if the conditions are right, and so its just a matter of getting the right conditions.
Michigan State Police are investigating a shooting involving a deputy in the Presque Isle County Sheriffs Department. Isaac Ritchey | iritchey@mlive.c

LONG RAPIDS TWP, MI  State police officials are providing more information about an officer-involved shooting that happened Thursday, Nov. 28, in Alpena County.

A 33-year-old man shot by deputies from the Presque Isle County Sheriffs Department was listed in stable condition at a hospital as of the publication of this report, state police officials reported.

The incident began near Rogers City in Presque Isle County at about 8:40 a.m. Thursday, when Presque Isle County Sheriffs Department deputies attempted a traffic stop on a pickup truck driven by the 33-year-old man. The individual was known by law enforcers as a wanted felon, state police reported.

The man fled the scene, driving into neighboring Alpena County, where his vehicle crashed into a ditch on M-65 near Leer Road in Long Rapids Township, state police reported.

The driver exited the vehicle while holding a firearm, leading deputies to shoot the man, state police reported. Deputies provided medical aid before the individual was transported to a hospital.

No one else was injured during the shooting.
BRUCE TWP, MI  A 3-year-old girl died and three other individuals sustained life-threatening injuries in a two-vehicle crash on a state highway in Macomb County on Thanksgiving Day, state police reported.

The crash involved a 2011 Chevrolet Impala driven by the father of two children also in the vehicle, including the deceased girl and her 2-year-old brother, read a state police report provided on X, formerly known as Twitter. Both the father and his 2-year-old son were transported to hospitals with life-threatening injuries.

An 18-year-old woman from Davison, who was driving a 2013 Chevrolet Impala involved in the crash, also was transported to a hospital with life-threatening injuries, the report stated.

State police responded to the crash at 5:20 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 27, on Van Dyke Avenue (M-53) near Ebeling Road in Bruce Township, about 40 miles north of Detroit, the report stated.

The 18-year-old woman was driving northbound on Van Dyke Avenue behind her boyfriends vehicle when the driver of the 2011 Chevrolet Impala crossed over into the northbound lanes, the state police report read. The teenagers boyfriend swerved out of the way of the 2011 Chevrolet Impala, which then struck his girlfriends 2013 Chevrolet Impala head-on.

There was no evidence of braking before the impact, read the report from the state polices Metro North post, which patrols parts of southeast Michigan.

Metro North troopers are continuing to investigate this crash, First Lt. Mike Shaw, of the state police, said in a statement one day after the crash. We do know that neither child was properly restrained and only one car seat was in the vehicle. What we dont know is why the at-fault driver crossed over into the on-coming lanes.
FLINT, MI  More than 20 local artisans will offer their handmade holiday creations for purchase this weekend in Flint.

The 18th annual Holiday Craft Market being presented by Flint Handmade is scheduled from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at the Flint Farmers Market, located at 300 E. 1st Street.

Join us on Small Business Saturday for 20+ local artisans with unique, modern handmade goods such as vintage-inspired jewelry, hand-poured candles, natural bath and body products, knit and crocheted items, home decor and much more, reads an event listing on Flint Handmades Facebook page.

The event, which is free of charge, will include live music by Erik McIntryre and Friend. Sponsors include Mott Community College, Genesee Health System, Dr. Bobby Mukkamala & Dr. Nita Kulkarni, Meijer, and Thrivent, and supported in part by an award from the Michigan Arts & Culture Council and the National Endowment for the Arts.

The event is also sponsored in part by the Greater Flint Arts Council Share Art Genesee Grant Program made possible by the Genesee County Arts Education and Cultural Enrichment Millage funds.

Anyone with additional questions about the event can email hello@flinthandmade.org for more information.
Veterinarian Amanda Hergenreder (pictured carrying the white paper) refused to return a homeless mans dog after she found it tied to a truck in Grand Rapids. She was sentenced Monday, Nov. 24, on a charge of larceny and must report to the Kent County Jail on Friday, Nov. 28 to serve a sentence of 10 days in jail. (John Tunison | MLive.com) John Tunison

GRAND RAPIDS, MI - This Thanksgiving week I have connected with friends from around the country who I grew up with, attended college with or worked with years ago at other companies.

Some of the calls were unexpected but they all brought me joy, and we all need more of that every day, not just during the holidays.

Since the COVID lockdowns, I have made a conscious effort to stay connected with my closest family and friends because life is short. The holidays are ideal for putting in those calls or meeting up with folk in town for family gatherings.

After catching up about family, kids and career, it doesnt take long before the conversation turns to local, state, national and/or international news. An article Monday by John Tunison thats gotten a lot of interest in and outside of the city was this story, The audacity, judge says in jailing Michigan veterinarian who took homeless mans dog.

It has been a talker because it strikes people as odd. Amanda Hergenreder, a veterinarian from Millington, refused to return a homeless mans pit bull, Vinnie, that she took last November after seeing him tied to a truck near Eastern Avenue and 28th Street near a Bigby coffee shop. She was charged with larceny.

The dog, which she renamed Bigby, died in July at the age of 16. He was never returned to owner Chris Hamilton. Grand Rapids District Court Judge Angela Ross, in issuing the sentence of 10 days in jail, 60 hours of community service and paying Hamilton $1,000 in restitution, scolded Hergenreder, who is to report to jail Friday, Nov. 28.

On the business front, Brian McVicar reported UPS is cutting 67 Grand Rapids area jobs as part of restructuring. The facility taking the hit early next year is at 5757 Clyde Park Ave. SW in Wyoming

Company spokesperson Karen Tomaszewski Hill said the layoffs target part-time employees who work in daytime package sorting at the facility. The layoffs are expected to occur by Jan. 20, 2026, when UPS will end daytime sorting at the facility.

Sticking with business news, the controversial Gaslight Village development project in East Grand Rapids is on hold until a resident-led lawsuit against the city is settled in court.

On Tuesday, Melissa Frick attended the city commission meeting, reporting how the massive commercial development had been halted. Residents have filed two petitions with the city in opposition to the project, which would add six new buildings to the heart of East Grand Rapids if it moves forward.

There was also no shortage of sobering crime news this holiday week.

Readers were drawn to Bradley Massmans article about a man kneeling during sentencing to apologize to the family of girl he tried to kill during Rockford home invasion.

Ricardo Perez Castillo, 25, said Wednesday he was a lost person when the home invasion occurred the morning of June 15, 2024, at a residence on Ella Terrace Court NE. He did not know the family but planned to kill everyone inside, according to the Kent County Sheriffs Office.

He entered the upstairs room of an 11-year-old girl, who was spending the night with the homeowners daughter, and started stabbing her while on top of her. The girls screams awoke Timmier who held him at gunpoint until police arrived. During his sentencing, he got down on his knees and pleaded for forgiveness from the families. He received a sentence of nearly 20 years minimum.

Bradley also reported that Sherry Lee Leak, 55, was arraigned in Muskegon County District Court on a single count of manslaughter, accused of killing her adoptive daughter, Mialah Leak, 11, in Fruitport.

Those are just some of the stories in the Grand Rapids area this week that interested our readers.

Monica Scott is the editor for MLive Media Groups The Grand Rapids Press and Muskegon Chronicle. She was previously a reporter who covered the city, county and schools in Grand Rapids.
The East Grand Rapids City Commission has put the controversial Gaslight Village project plan on pause as a lawsuit filed by residents plays out in court. Pictured is an aerial view of Reeds Lake in East Grand Rapids.(MLive.com) Joel Bissell | Jbissell@mlive.com

EAST GRAND RAPIDS, MI  East Grand Rapids residents are fighting the city over a controversial development project that has proposed to add six new buildings to Gaslight Village.

Residents have filed two petitions with the city aimed at halting the project, which was advanced to the final planning phase last month after commissioners narrowly approved its conceptual plan.

The city has since put the plan on pause as a lawsuit filed by residents plays out in court.

Here are four things to know about the residents petition efforts and where the project stands now.

1. First petition took aim at citys vote of approval

Residents submitted their first petition to the city on Oct. 6, in an effort to halt the citys approval of the projects concept plan.

The protest petition sought to change the city commissions voting requirements for the project, raising the required vote for approval from a simple majority (requiring four affirmative votes) to a two-thirds majority (requiring five votes).

Residents cited state law requiring a two-thirds vote by a legislative body on a zoning ordinance change if a protest petition is filed.

However, City Attorney John Huff said the petition was not applicable to the situation because the citys approval of the project was an administrative action, not a legislative one. He advised the city commission that the petition was invalid, and the commission ultimately voted to approve the concept plan on Oct. 6, by a vote of 4-3.

2. Residents wanted to put project up for public vote

After the citys approval of the concept plan, residents moved to gather signatures on a referendum petition, which would put the project on the ballot for a public vote.

The second petition, organized by a group called Gaslight Village Responsible Development, was submitted to the city on Nov. 5. Organizers said their goal was to allow citizens to decide the fate of the massive development, rather than leaving it up to the city commission.

The petition received over 1,400 signatures, gathered by volunteers through door-to-door knocking and canvassing in Gaslight Village.

However, City Clerk Lori Parmenter ultimately found the petition to be invalid due to technical difficulties with the language on the petition form itself, a claim disputed by the group.

The group said the petition complied with all of the requirements of Michigan election law for petition circulators.

After the city determined the petition to be invalid, the group filed a lawsuit in Kent Countys 17th Circuit Court on Nov. 19. The lawsuit claimed the city ignored state zoning laws to rush the Gaslight Village project through the first round of approvals.

The lawsuit asked a judge to either repeal the citys approval of the project concept plan, or put it to a public vote as the referendum petition sought to do.

3. Project halted by lawsuit

The Gaslight Village project is now being put on hold while the issue plays out in court, City Attorney John Huff said on Tuesday, Nov. 25.

From this point forward, any public discussion of this matter by the city will be in a courtroom until this matter is resolved, Huff told commissioners. The project itself is on hold during the pendency of litigation unless the court rules otherwise, and this project will not appear on a city commission agenda again until the court reaches its decision.

Commissioners heard an update on the matter from Huff on Tuesday, after City Manager Shea Charles placed a resolution on the agenda asking commissioners to reject the protest petition. However, Charles took it off the agenda at the start of the meeting, and Huff said the city would be waiting for a judge to weigh in on the matter.

Attorney Pat Lennon, who represents the developers of the Gaslight Village project, said the city already approved the concept plan on Oct. 6, and the process has already moved forward.

Even if it wanted to, the city cannot turn back the clock and apply different rules to a vote it has already taken, and a decision its already made, he said.

4. What the project entails

The city commission has been discussing the Gaslight Village project at length for months. At the heart of that discussion is the question of whether the size and scale of the proposed development matches the citys beloved small-town charm.

The proposed plan would add six new buildings to Gaslight Village, including 147 residential units, 32,000 square feet of new commercial space and a parking garage. It also includes a proposed open social hub and a multipurpose commercial incubator.

It would be located on an 8.6-acre site at 2255 Wealthy St. and 515 Lakeside Drive SE.

The developer behind the project is Gaslight Investors, the company formerly known as Jade Pig Ventures that helped spark Gaslight Villages development two decades ago.

Jade Pig developed two commercial buildings and Bagley Plaza in Gaslight Village in 2006 to 2007, and planned to develop more housing and commercial buildings as part of that project. However, those plans were twice derailed  first in the mid-2000s amid the Great Recession, and then in 2020 by the COVID-19 pandemic.

This summer, the company revived its plans, incorporating changes to address modern needs, such as enhancing the walkability of East Grand Rapids, and adding more residential and commercial space.
University of Michigan Health-Wests was designated as a Magnet with Distinction institution. The recognition from the American Nurses Credentialing Center recognizes the health systems culture of nursing excellence and clinical improvement. Isaac Ritchey | iritchey@mlive.c

WYOMING, MI  A national nursing group has recognized University of Michigan Health-West for nursing excellence.

The American Nurses Credentialing Centers Magnet with Distinction designation was awarded to the health system after it demonstrated that it met benchmarks for nursing practice, collaboration and patient care.

Kate Veenstra, chief nursing officer at UM Health-West, called the designation a milestone moment.

Magnet recognition affirms the incredible work happening here every day and how our nurses elevate and optimize care for our patients, she said. This designation validates our culture of nursing excellence, celebrates our teams clinical improvement efforts and recognizes our professional practice as nurses.

UM Health-West said in a release Magnet recognition is considered the gold standard in nursing, awarded to less than 10% of hospitals in the United States.

The designation remains in effect for four years.

UM Health-West has been working to achieve the designation for the past seven years. During that time, the health systems work to gain the designation was disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

To achieve the designation, UM Health-West submitted rigorous documentation showing the health systems nursing system met measurable outcomes. There was also a three-day site visit in September by appraisers with the Magnet program, according to a release.

Our nurses lead with skill and compassion, said Ronald Grifka, president of UM Health-West. Our nursing care receiving Magnet designation is a direct reflection of their dedication to caring for patients and to each other. We are incredibly proud of our nursing team and what this means for the future of care for patients in West Michigan.

In West Michigan, Corewell Health and Trinity Health have also received a Magnet designation, their websites show.
JACKSON COUNTY, MI  Jackson College is seeking part-time instructors.

The college is hosting a virtual adjunct hiring fair Dec. 4-5 via Zoom as the institution seeks to fill part-time teaching positions across multiple disciplines.

Adjunct instructors typically teach one or two classes per semester or serve as clinical instructors for health programs.

The positions offer hourly compensation ranging from $46 to $56, depending on the subject area and credentials.

The college has identified several high-need areas for in-person instruction, including positions at Corrections Education Program facilities in St. Louis, Milan, Huron Valley, and other Michigan locations.

Additional priority areas include English composition, accounting and natural sciences.

Applicants with expertise in other subject areas are also encouraged to apply.

The college needs instructors for in-person classes, online courses and Corrections Education Program offerings throughout Michigan.

Prospective applicants must submit an online application before the event at schooljobs.com/careers/jccmi/transferjobs and register for the virtual fair at forms.office.com/r/ERbRbBE0zL.

For more information, contact Angel Wallace at wallaceangels@jccmi.edu.
BIRCH RUN, MI -- The Village of Birch Run will welcome Santa Claus by train on Friday, Dec. 5, as part of the annual Christmas in the Village celebration.

The event runs from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the corner of Main and Maple streets. Santa is scheduled to arrive on the Lake State Railway at 5:30 p.m.

The Rotary Club of Birch Run is organizing the event in partnership with the Birch Run Bridgeport Chamber of Commerce.

Families planning to visit Santa must make advance reservations through the Birch Run Bridgeport Chamber of Commerce website. A photographer will be available to take photos using attendees own cameras.

The outdoor celebration will feature music, live animals and concessions. Students from the Birch Run Rotary Interact Club will host games with prizes. Photo opportunities include a giant wreath, roaming costumed characters and local emergency responders with their fire trucks and police vehicles.

The event will include a Kringle Market, where vendors will sell their goods. Children can drop letters to Santa in a North Pole mailbox. Vendor spaces are still available for those interested in participating in the market.

Organizers recommend dressing for outdoor conditions.

Updates about the event are available on the Rotary Club of Birch Run, Michigan Facebook page. Additional information is available by emailing thebirchrunrotaryclub@gmail.com or by visiting birchrunrotary.org.

Generative AI was used to draft this story, based on information provided by the Rotary Club of Birch Run. It was reviewed and edited by Advance Local.
Those 18 years old would be able to carry a concealed pistol in Michigan under a proposal being considered by state lawmakers. (MLive file photo) Charlie Nick | MLive.com

In Michigan, 18-year-olds can vote, serve in the military, serve on a jury, own a firearm, marry and enter into contracts.

Some state lawmakers want to add carrying a concealed pistol to that list.

Currently, only residents ages 21 and older can apply for and receive a license to carry a concealed pistol in the state. Legislation put forward by state Rep. Jason Woolford, R-Howell, would lower the age to 18.

Right now, Michigan tells us that an 18-year-old soldier or Marine that are mature enough to deploy overseas and carry a service weapon for our country but, somehow, is not responsible enough to carry a sidearm to protect themselves in their own neighborhood, said Woolford, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran. This doesnt make sense to me.

Woolford gave those remarks during a Nov. 12 hearing on the bill in the House Judiciary Committee. A vote was not taken on the legislation.

The bill doesnt change the necessary background checks, training and other requirements to obtain a concealed pistol license (CPL) in Michigan. It also doesnt change what offenses disqualify someone from getting a CPL.

Among the requirements to be licensed to carry a concealed pistol, applicants must be 21 or older, have never been convicted of a felony, have lived in Michigan for the past six months, be a U.S. citizen or legal resident and not have been convicted of specific misdemeanors within a certain timeframe. They also must complete a pistol safety class.

The legislation also wouldnt change the prohibition on those younger than 21 from purchasing a handgun at a licensed dealer. Currently, those ages 18 to 20 can only purchase a handgun from a private seller but can purchase a long gun from a licensed dealer.

A task force created by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to come up with ways to reduce gun violence in the state recently recommended raising the age to purchase firearms to 21.

The truth is young adults today face the same risk as anyone else, Woolford said. Many live alone, they attend college and cities, they work night shifts and they deserve the same rights and ability to defend themselves responsibly.

The age to carry a concealed pistol varies state by state.

Neighboring Indiana allows those ages 18 and older to carry a concealed pistol without a license. Like Michigan, Wisconsin and Illinois require all concealed pistol carriers to be 21 and licensed. In Ohio, no license is required to carry a concealed pistol, but only residents ages 21 and older can do so.

Gail Duncan, a Charlotte resident and member of Moms Demand Action, testified against the legislation, saying that firearms are the leading cause of death nationwide for children and teens. Duncans daughter was killed at work by a man who shot her and then himself.

The area of the brain responsible for judgment and impulse control is not fully developed in 18-, 19- and 20-year-olds, meaning that they can be more prone to aggressive behavior, she said. Decades of scientific evidence demonstrate that adolescents and young adults make riskier decisions than adults.

Tom Lambert, legislative director for Michigan Open Carry, said his group advocates for all those who openly carry pistols to have a CPL, as there are a number of legal pitfalls without it.

Legal gun owners ages 18 and older can openly carry handguns and long guns without a permit in Michigan.

Carrying a concealed weapon without a license is a five-year felony in the state. This means if someone openly carrying a pistol accidentally covers it with a shirt or coat, they could face prosecution if they dont have a CPL, he said.

Lawmakers on Nov. 12 heard testimony on other bills related to concealed carry.

One bill would reduce the fee for renewing a CPL, another would provide grace periods to remedy errors on CPL applications and the last one would allow people to apply for a CPL in any county, not just the one they live in.
Vehicles move along a road on a smoggy morning, as air pollution persists in Mumbai

Tamal Nandi

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Maruti Suzuki to drive in e Vitara on December 2; over 500km range, Level 2 ADAS, 7 airbags & more

The e Vitara is the maiden Maruti Suzuki car to get seven airbags.

Varun Singh

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
All about Tnusree Chakraborty: The Bengali star who tied the knot with Atlanta-based Sujit Basu in Las Vegas

Palak Vij is a Sub Editor and Entertainment Journalist with over a year of experience covering films, television, and pop culture in the digital space.

Palak Vij

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Sriva A is a seasoned film critic with a keen eye for storytelling, cinematography, and performances.

Palak Vij

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Tere Ishk Mein Movie Review: Dhanush and Kriti Sanon elevate a film burdened by its own intensity

Sarika Sharma

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Vaishnavi Gavankar

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Madras High Court orders immediate removal of two Ilaiyaraaja songs from Dude

Ragini Jaiswal

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Sanjay Khan recalls terrifying incident with Dharmendra on Haqeeqat sets, "our walk back to the officers mess ended with a rifle aimed at us"

Sanjay Khan recalls terrifying incident with Dharmendra on Haqeeqat sets, "our walk back to the officers mess ended with a rifle aimed at us"

Vaishnavi Gavankar

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Tamal Nandi

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
'Optimistic of finding a solution this year,' says Commerce Secy on first tranche of India-US trade deal

Adrija Chatterjee is an Assistant Editor at Moneycontrol. She has been tracking and reporting on finance and trade ministries for over eight years.

'It's only a matter of time,' says Commerce Secretary on India-US trade deal

J Jagannath

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Meghna Mittal Deputy News Editor at Moneycontrol. Meghna has experience across television, print, online and wire media. She has been covering the Indian economy, monetary and fiscal policies, Finance and Trade ministries. She tweets at @Meghnamittal23 Contact: meghna.mittal@nw18.com

Adrija Chatterjee is an Assistant Editor at Moneycontrol. She has been tracking and reporting on finance and trade ministries for over eight years.

Adrija Chatterjee

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Currently, their primary focus is exports with US and France being their main customers. Melligeri added that defense could provide diversification as well, but India does not offer long-term defense contracts which they prefer, hence they are not eyeing capex in that segment, currently but are open to domestic markets if these long-term contracts are in play.

Anishaa Kumar

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Debaroti Adhikary

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Sunil Matkar

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
The broader point is that innovation or audacious business ambition require strong financial support to have a fighting chance at being successful.

Namrata Agarwal

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Before your next SIP, check if your mutual fund KYC is FATCA ready

Manisha Lal Khandpur

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
How Labour Code 2025 can shrink your salary, if basic pay is below 50% CTC

Teena Jain Kaushal is Editor - Personal Finance (Audience Growth) at Moneycontrol, with over two decades of expertise demystifying money matters. Whether its decoding tax, navigating investments, or breaking down the latest insurance trends, her aim is to help readers make smarter financial decisions.

Impact of new Labour Codes on your take home salary

Teena Jain Kaushal

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Shaleen Agrawal

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Christin Mathew Philip is a Senior Assistant Editor at Moneycontrol.com with 15 years of experience in journalism and a recipient of the Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Award. Based in Bengaluru, he understands the pulse of the people and covers issues that matter, including mobility, infrastructure, start-ups, and government policies. He tweets at @ChristinMP_

Christin Mathew Philip

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Rewati Karan

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Boosting trade, defence ties to be major focus of Russian President Vladimir Putin's 2-day visit to India next week

Hemant Abhishek

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Can Aadhaar decide what you watch online? SC tests age-gating after Indias Got Latent row

New rules coming for social media content? SC orders draft after four weeks of consultation

Aishwarya Dabhade

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Currently there are over 600 cameras installed within a close radius around the Red Fort.

Priyanjali Ghose

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Ria Kapoor

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
'Delhi is our temple, it will always guide us', DK Shivakumkar says amid growing speculation over Karnataka leadership

Ria Kapoor

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Chhabi Kala

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
DK Shivakumar denies talks of Karnataka leadership change: 'Not in a hurry for anything'

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

Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah (right) with his deputy DK Shivakumar (left) in Bengaluru (File photo)

Rewati Karan

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
East Delhi's Ghazipur Police Station rises above landfill to become India's No. 1

East Delhi's Ghazipur Police Station rises above landfill to become India's No. 1

Ria Kapoor

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
In October last year, the NRB entrusted a Chinese company with printing the new banknotes.

Priyanjali Ghose

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Not in hurry, party will decide: Shivakumar on leadership tussle in Karnataka

Chhabi Kala

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Opening of Babri Masjid site for Hindu worship in 1986: How court-ordered unlocking transformed Ayodhya dispute

Priyanjali Ghose

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
China, Latin America achieve fruitful results in jointly addressing climate change

13:31, November 28, 2025 By Lu Daxin ( People's Daily Online

Climate change is a common challenge faced by all human beings. As a responsible major developing country, China has taken an active approach and made important contributions to the world's green development. In September 2020, China announced that it would strive to peak carbon emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. Over the past five years, China has built the world's largest and fastest-growing renewable energy system and established the world's largest and most complete new energy industrial chains. China also leads the world in expanding green coverage in both scale and speed, contributing a quarter of the world's new green area and becoming the first in the world to achieve zero growth in land degradation. The public satisfaction rate with the ecological environment has remained above 90 percent for several consecutive years.

China champions a just and fair global green transition, fully respects the development rights of developing nations, and has worked relentlessly to narrow the North-South divide in this process. Over the past decade, China has helped push down the energy cost of global wind power and photovoltaic power projects by over 60 percent and 80 percent respectively, making clean energy accessible to and affordable for all countries, especially developing ones. At present, 58 percent of the world's solar power is generated in low- and middle-income countries, an achievement not possible without China's contributions. China has also been deeply engaged in South-South cooperation in addressing climate change. It has signed project documents with 42 countries, and mobilized and provided over RMB 177 billion yuan in project funds to support developing countries, especially small island states and the least developed countries, in response to climate change.

Like China, Latin American and Caribbean countries also take the challenge of climate change very seriously. Engaging in diverse forms of cooperation in this field, China and Latin American and Caribbean countries have established a highly efficient cooperation mechanism that has yielded substantial results. Since the first ministerial meeting of the China-CELAC Forum in 2015, addressing climate change has been incorporated into the joint action plannow in its fourth phase of implementationthrough cooperation in key areas between China and the CELAC member states. Under the Forum's framework, the First China-CELAC Disaster Management Cooperation Ministerial Forum was held via video link in August 2022, officially launching a dedicated mechanism in this area. Through these channels, China and Latin America have enhanced collaboration in disaster prevention and relief, post-disaster reconstruction, and climate adaptation, effectively boosting the region's development resilience.

Cooperation with China on green energy projects has contributed significantly to the development and transformation of countries in Latin America. The San Gaban III Hydropower Project in Peru, invested in and built by Chinese enterprises, was officially put into operation this year, easing the power shortage for over a million people. The Tanque Novo wind power project in Brazil can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 650,000 tons annually, with a carbon sequestration effect equivalent to planting a 1,800-hectare forest. The Gaocharay Photovoltaic Power Station in Argentina, the largest and highest-altitude photovoltaic project in South America, is hailed as a sunflower blooming in the Andes Mountains.

China's new energy vehicles (NEVs) are upgrading and greening the transportation systems in regional countries. Given that the transport sector accounts for 20 percent of total emissions in Latin America, NEVs are crucial for the region's decarbonization. Chinese cars now make up half of Latin America's NEV market. Around 6,000 Chinese-made fully electric buses are operating in countries like Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and Uruguay, providing convenient public transport while contributing to urban emission reduction.

China and Latin America are both committed to protecting ecosystems such as forests. In 2021, China, Brazil and other Latin American countries signed the Glasgow Leaders' Declaration on Forests and Land Use at COP26, committing to achieving zero deforestation by 2030. Recently, Brazilian soybeans with zero deforestation and zero vegetation damage arrived in China, demonstrating to the world China and Latin America's determination and actions to strengthen sustainable agricultural cooperation.

China prioritizes cooperation on climate change with small island states such as those in the Caribbean. China has established the China-Caribbean disaster reduction and prevention fund to assist Caribbean countries in responding to climate disasters, built the China-Caribbean development center to promote practical cooperation in eight major fields including food security, climate change and green development, and launched the International Zero-Carbon Islands Cooperation Initiative to assist Caribbean countries in building green islands. Just a few weeks ago, China and Guyana signed a memorandum of understanding on South-South cooperation on green and low-carbon transportation to address climate change. China will provide Guyana with NEVs and supporting charging facilities, and support it in building a demonstration project for low-carbon transformation.

In September this year, Chinese President Xi Jinping at the United Nations Climate Summit announced that China will, by 2035, reduce economy-wide net greenhouse gas emissions by 7 to 10 percent from peak levels. This marks the first time China has committed to an absolute, economy-wide reduction target encompassing all greenhouse gases. It signifies the country's transition toward a more systematic and comprehensive model of low-carbon development. Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, said, We know China has a long and impressive record of meeting and surpassing its targets for climate change and clean energy. We appreciate President Xi's commitment both to new emissions reduction targets and his comments that China will be striving to do better.

The 30th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP30) just concluded in Belem, Brazil. China's announcement of a new round of Nationally Determined Contributions represents concrete support for Brazil's hosting of this important conference and will be instrumental in boosting the international community's confidence in global climate governance. As Chinese President Xi Jinping's Special Representative and Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang proposed at the Belem Climate Summit, we need to keep to the right direction of green and low-carbon transformation, translate climate commitments into action, and deepen openness and cooperation to achieve sustained progress in global climate governance. China stands ready to work with all countries, including those in Latin America and the Caribbean, to address climate and environmental challenges, better protect our planet, and build a community with a shared future for humanity.

The author is an international affairs observer.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
Operation Trident, conducted in one night, readjusted the Arabian Sea's balance of power and etched a permanent chapter into India's military history: a testament to daring, discipline, and the relentless pursuit of maritime excellence. (File photo)

Deblina Halder

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Status quo in Karnataka? Why Congress is playing safe on Siddaramaiah-Shivakumar power clash

The Siddaramaiah-DK Shivakumar battle in Karnataka has rumbled on since the Congress' 2023 election win

Priyanjali Ghose

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Supreme Court orders audit of private and deemed universities after Amity student alleges harassment over name change

The top cout bench says it was necessary, in the larger public interest, to examine how private universities were created.

Priyanjali Ghose

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Was earlier in jail, arrived in India in August: All about Bandhu Mann Singh Sekhon, the man who allegedly supplied weapons for attack on Kapil Sharma's cafe

Ria Kapoor is a Senior Sub Editor at Moneycontrol with nearly six years of newsroom experience. She covers a wide range of stories, including politics, crime, world affairs and issues of national interest. Before joining Moneycontrol, she worked with Inshorts, Times Now and NewsNine.

Kapil SHarma's cafe was attacked multiple times in the last few months

Ria Kapoor

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
With Sengottaiyans entry, TVK rules out any alliance with AIADMK and NDA

Swati Das is an independent journalist covering Tamil Nadu politics, and is based in Chennai.

Sengottaiyan resigned as Gobichettipalayam MLA on Wednesday and on Thursday joined the TVK.

Priyanjali Ghose

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
OPINION | Vault Matters: The real but barely mentioned risk in Yes Bank

Hamsini Karthik Number crunching, drawing interesting inferences (sometimes contrarian), and penning them in an impactful manner, best describes what I do. As a BFSI specialist, I enjoy telling stories about whats working and what not for lenders, breaking down regulatory jargon and how they affect customers and financiers, and simplifying the economics of money. When not glued to banks, the world of autos and airlines keeps me busy.

Out of the woods? Not quite with the judicial outcome of the AT-1 bondholders pending

Namrata Agarwal

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Elderly Chinese woman seeks 'daughter' to assist her in old age. Ready to offer Rs 37,000 monthly, a flat

Ma also said she had divorced her daughters father when she was young and had since lost contact with most relatives.

Shubhi Mishra

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Ciplas respiratory push: Sets up diagnostic centre in Delhi, Mumbai and other cities next

Viswanath Pilla is a business journalist with 16 years of reporting experience. Based in Mumbai, Pilla covers pharma, healthcare and infrastructure sectors for Moneycontrol.

Ciplas respiratory push: Sets up diagnostic centre in Delhi, Mumbai and other cities next

Viswanath Pilla

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Casagrand, founded in 2003, said it had more than two decades of experience and had completed over 160 developments covering more than 53 million square feet of residential space.

Shubhi Mishra

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
UP groom declines Rs 31 lakh dowry, says it is bride's 'father's hard-earned money'

His parents supported him immediately, and members of the brides family were visibly relieved.

Shubhi Mishra

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Kerala on Mars: Periyar, Thumba and Varkala claim new cosmic addresses on the Red Planet

Sheetal Kumari

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
AliExpress under scanner for selling childlike sex dolls, France to take legal action against ecommerce site

Sarthak Singh Sarthak is an experienced writer having covered personal and consumer tech, gadgets news, social media trends, and more for several years

Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day

Ankita Chakravarti

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day

Anand J

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day

In the letter, HP Police has asked for a compliance report from companies by the end of this month

Aihik Sur

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Inside Apples metro playbook: Why iPhone-maker is doubling its stores in Delhi-NCR, Mumbai

Danish Khan is the editor of Technology and Telecom. He was previously with the Economic Times and has tracked the sector for 14 years.

Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day

Hemant Abhishek

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Sarthak Singh Sarthak is an experienced writer having covered personal and consumer tech, gadgets news, social media trends, and more for several years

Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day

Ankita Chakravarti

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
'It's getting exciting again and....' Sundar Pichai on how vibe coding will open tech careers to non-coders

Sarthak Singh Sarthak is an experienced writer having covered personal and consumer tech, gadgets news, social media trends, and more for several years

Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day

Aabhas Sharma

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates daughter reveals they were not allowed to use his last name in school

Ankita Chakravarti is a seasoned journalist with nearly a decade of experience in media. She specializes in technology and lifestyle journalism. She has worked with top Indian media houses like India Today, Zee News, The Statesman, and Millennium Post. Her expertise spans tech trends, phone launches, gadget reviews, and entertainment news. Ankita holds a Master's in Journalism and Mass Communication along with a degree in English Literature. She can be reached out at ankita.chakravarti@nw18.com

Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day

Ankita Chakravarti

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Ankita Chakravarti is a seasoned journalist with nearly a decade of experience in media. She specializes in technology and lifestyle journalism. She has worked with top Indian media houses like India Today, Zee News, The Statesman, and Millennium Post. Her expertise spans tech trends, phone launches, gadget reviews, and entertainment news. Ankita holds a Master's in Journalism and Mass Communication along with a degree in English Literature. She can be reached out at ankita.chakravarti@nw18.com

Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day

Ankita Chakravarti

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Are you stupid? Donald Trump snaps at reporter when asked why he blames Joe Biden for DC attack

Aishwarya Dabhade

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Can your Green Card interview get you arrested? ICE detains spouses and parents of US citizens, spark alarm

Aishwarya Dabhade

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
China ramps up 'research' ship presence in Indian Ocean: Are these vessels masking military intent near India?

Abhinav Gupta With over 12 years in digital journalism, has navigated the fast-evolving media landscape, shaping digital strategies and leading high-impact newsrooms. Currently, he serves as News Editor at MoneyControl, leading coverage in Global Affairs, Indian Politics, Governance and Policy Making. Previously, he has spearheaded fact-checking and digital media operations at Press Trust of India. Abhinav has also led news desks at Financial Express, DNA, and Jagran English, managing editorial direction, breaking news coverage, and digital growth. His journey includes stints with The Indian Express Group, Zee Media Group, and more, where he has honed his expertise in newsroom leadership, audience engagement, and digital transformation.

Abhinav Gupta

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
From engines to missiles: What French defence giant Safran manufactures and why its footprint in India is a big deal

Dignitaries look at a CFM LEAP-1A engine after Safran Aircraft Engine Services' inauguration at GMR Aeropark in Hyderabad on November 26, 2025. (Photo by NOAH SEELAM / AFP)

Abhinav Gupta

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
What triggered Trumps permanent pause threat and what it means for Third World migrants

Aishwarya Dabhade Chief Sub-Editor at Moneycontrol. She leads shifts and writes explainers on business, policy, markets and geopolitics. Ex-CNBC-TV18, The Economic Times, YouGov and WebEngage.

A deadly D.C. ambush by an Afghan migrant has become Trumps Exhibit A to rip up Biden-era refugee admissions and vow a sweeping halt to 'Third World' migration.

Aishwarya Dabhade

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
The bamboo poles and nets that once encased the now burnt-out building have become the focus of an investigation into a blaze that incinerated the 2,000-apartment complex, after raging for more than 24 hours.

Deblina Halder

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
How drought may have helped bring down the Indus Valley civilization

Deblina Halder

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Abhinav Gupta

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Pradeep Tripathi

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Is Imran Khan still alive? Family, marriages and the life behind Pakistans ex-PM amid death rumours

File photo of former Pakistan PM Imran Khan and his ex-wife Jemima Khan dating back to September 16, 2002.

Abhinav Gupta

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Nepals new Rs 100 note with disputed areas unsettles India: Why New Delhi has objected strongly

The new Rs 100 denomination bank notes that have been issued by Nepal's central bank. The notes have a revised map of the country, including the controversial Kalapani, Lipulekh, and Limpiyadhura territories. (PTI Photo)

Abhinav Gupta

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Ozempic 2.0: How new GLP-1 weight loss pills and monthly shots could transform obesity treatment

Rewati Karan

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Trump's migration pause: What are 'Third World' countries? Is India on the list?

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 announcement comes hours after the Trump administration said it will conduct a rigorous re-examination of all Green Cards issued to immigrants from every country of concern in the wake of the shooting of two National Guard service members by an Afghan national.

Rewati Karan

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
US reviewing 'every' Green Card of 19 countries after capital attack

Tamal Nandi

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
US to permanently pause migration from all 'Third World' countries: Donald Trump

Armaan Bhatnagar

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Were going to start working: Can Trump really end Sudans devastating war?

Pradeep Tripathi

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
What we know about the Afghan Zero Unit veteran accused in the D.C. National Guard shooting

Aishwarya Dabhade

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Who gets to stay in America? Inside Trumps new immigration push and its impact on Indians

Pradeep Tripathi

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
Who is Bandhu Maan Singh Sekhon? Inside the crime trail behind Kapil Sharmas Canada cafe attacks

Abhinav Gupta

USER CONSENT

We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy.

*We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies.

Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy

*I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age

I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl

I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites

I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS

Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue.

I Accept
November 28, 2025 Ukraine Rejects Trumps Peace Plan  U.S. Reacts To Its Defiance After rejecting a plan that would see Ukraine concede territory to Russia its leadership has come under new pressure. Trumps 28-point Ukraine plan, leaked by former U.S. envoy to Ukraine Keith Kellogg, was an attempt to shut the war down  at least for now. The European dimwits, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and the Ukrainian ruler managed to sabotage it: One camp, including Vance, special envoy Steve Witkoff and other officials, views Ukraine as the primary obstacle to peace and favors using U.S. leverage to force Kyiv to make major compromises, according to multiple current and former officials. The other camp, represented by Rubio and other officials, sees Russia as the culprit for having launched an unprovoked invasion of its neighbor and says Moscow will relent only if it pays a price for its aggression through sanctions and other pressure. With his deputies vying for his attention along with Republican lawmakers and European leaders, President Donald Trump has veered back and forth on how to resolve the conflict. While the 28-point plan included several points Russia could not agree to (like a 600,000 strong Ukrainian army), it also included significant concession Ukraine would have to make. It could have been the base for further discussions with Russia. But Rubio allowed the Ukrainians to shrink the plan down to 19 points by taking out any Ukrainian concessions while adding erroneous demands (a 800,000 strong Ukrainian army) which are unacceptable to Russia. Trump is, as usual, behaving like a weathervane unable or unwilling to force his will on the opponents of his plan. The Ukrainian army is collapsing. Pokrovsk had been enveloped and occupied a week ago. But Zelenski and others kept claimed that the Ukrainian was winning that battle. As the army breaks down and its soldiers flee from their positions (in Russian) other cities, like Huleipole and Siversk, will soon fall too. There is no way for Ukraine to win the war. The longer the war takes the more will be lost for Ukraine. The utter delusion behind the rejection of Trumps 28 point plan was demonstrated by the European High Representative for Foreign Affairs Katja Kallas: We still need to get from a situation where Russia pretends to negotiate to a situation where they need to negotiate Sure. And how are going to get there? After 19 rounds of EU sanction on Russia the 20th package will certainly take care of it? During the latest round of negotiations the acting president of Ukraine Vladimir Zelenski had named the chief of his office Andrei Yermak and the Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council Rustem Umerov as negotiators.

This was widely seen as an attempt to protect both persons from prosecution for their involvement in a recent case of large scale corruption. Yermak admitted as much when he called up Simon Shuster at The Atlantic to put an end to the current round of negotiations: Volodymyr Zelensky, in the next phase of talks to end the war in Ukraine, intends to draw a red line at the most contentious issue on the table: the Russian demand for Ukraines sovereign territory. As long as he remains the nations president, Zelensky will not agree to give up land in exchange for peace, Ukraines chief negotiator, Andriy Yermak, told me today in an exclusive interview. Not a single sane person today would sign a document to give up territory, said Yermak, who has served as Zelenskys chief of staff, lead negotiator, and closest aide throughout the full-scale war with Russia. As long as Zelensky is president, no one should count on us giving up territory. He will not sign away territory, he told me by telephone from Kyiv. The constitution prohibits this. Nobody can do that unless they want to go against the Ukrainian constitution and the Ukrainian people. Russia will ignore such nonsense and take by force whatever territory it thinks it needs. Further down Yermak explains to Shuster why he was tasked with negotiations: In our interview, Yermak responded at length for the first time to the investigation and the resulting calls for him to step aside. The pressure is enormous, he told me. The case is fairly loud, and there needs to be an objective and independent investigation without political influence. By appointing him to lead Ukraines negotiating team despite the scandal, Zelensky made clear to the people of Ukraine that Yermak continues to enjoy his trust, he said. The people of Ukraine see that I have been beside the president all these years during all the most difficult, tragic, and dangerous moments, Yermak said. He trusted me with these negotiations that will decide the fate of our country. And if people support the president, that should answer all their questions. Ukraine has now officially rejected the core element  land for peace  of Trumps plan. The U.S. immediately responded to this open defiance. Today, by using its control over the Ukrainian National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and various nationalist and fascist media in Ukraine, it hit back at Yermak: The National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAPO) are conducting searches at the office of Andrii Yermak, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, in the government district on the morning of 28 November. Source: Ukrainska Pravda journalist at the scene Details: Ukrainska Pravda journalists managed to record around 10 employees from NABU and SAPO entering the government district. The independent Ukrainian outlet Strana summarizes the political background of this action (machine translation): Observers drew attention to the fact that the searches began just before the visit of US Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll, a representative of Donald Trump, to Kiev. According to a popular version, he should put pressure on the Ukrainian authorities to agree to concessions under the Trump peace plan, including with regard to the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from the Donbass. And just yesterday, Yermak solemnly proclaimed that as long as Vladimir Zelensky is president, Ukraine will not make territorial concessions. Therefore, many people in political circles associate the searches of Yermaks apartment with these events. That is, according to this version, Washington, with the help of NABU, makes it clear to Zelensky that the situation is serious and its time to adjust the position on the peace plan. According to another version, the searches are connected with the long-running line of the anti-Green coalition to deprive the president of real power and turn him into the queen of England by losing control of the parliamentary majority and the government. One of the central elements of this plan is the dismissal of Yermak, which Zelensky has so far refused to do. But now, apparently, they decided to present him with new arguments in favor of such a step. I seriously doubt the second explanation though this is not a neither nor situation. NABU is unlikely to act on anything without having a green light from the U.S. ambassador in Kiev. Zelenski and Yermak will certainly hit back at NABU. A few month ago they had already tried to neuter it but had to retreat under pressure from Washington and Europe. They can use security services under their control -Ukraines FBI equivalent SBU  to arrest and indict NABU official. The race is on. Who will be the first to be arrested: Andrei Yermak or the chief investigators of NABU? Comments
Have mud, will sling it

By Zaldy Dandan  Variety Editor

WHEN I first arrived on island 32 years ago, the local economy had slowed down compared to its blistering growth in the late 1980s, but everyone believed it would pick up again soon. And so it did. Consequently, the CNMI governments finances were stable. At the time, Variety reported that the Retirement Fund was doing just fine, and its financial condition was improving.

1993 was also a general election year, and I got here during the final stretch of a spirited campaign between the Democrats and Republicans. (The only prominent Independents were two Republican House members who were banished from their party for not supporting its titular head, the then-Republican governor.)

Heres a typical campaign advertisement from a legislative candidate: Hes working hard and hes determined to make the Commonwealth a better place. [He] has made a commitment to all the people of the Northern Marianas  a commitment to listen to the people, to work with his colleagues and to make sure the best interests of the Commonwealth are always the top priority. [He] wants to make a difference in improving the quality of life in the CNMI.

Another candidate described himself as someone who knows the importance of listening to the people, and who would continue the common cause of the common people.

Then there was the candidate who promised to be a true leader, a fighter and your strong voice in [the Legislature] to continue protecting your interests where it really counts.

Together we can make the change for a better government, according to another hopeful, who pledged to serve the people well and protect their interest; restore the integrity of the islands; renew our economic, moral and social strength for prosperity; [and] restore confidence of the people.

The main event, of course, was the gubernatorial race  a rematch of the 1989 election. The candidates print and broadcast ads were hard-hitting, and we can only imagine what their supporters were telling voters in pocket meetings and other campaign gatherings. Accusations of lying, duplicity, ruthlessness, desperation and corruption were pervasive. Both camps also claimed they were victims of mudslinging and personal attacks.

A few days before Election Day, the opposition camp, the Democrats, said their opponents campaign strategy was to use scare tactics to persuade [government employees] to vote for them or lose their jobs. This is not true. We will not lay off 3,000 some government employees if we are elected. We will not lay off one single civil service employee. We offer you a government that is committed to the interest of the public; a government that is honest and truthful; a government that is respected.

The Republicans, for their part, asked voters, Have you ever notice that those who criticize others and those who spread lies most often have something to hide about themselves. The Democratic candidate has done nothing but criticize and spread lies about our Governor and Lt. Governor. He criticized the administrations handling of the economy  but he has not offered his plan  we dont know how [he] would handle the economy, and neither does he. But we do know that he ran his construction company broke. Broken promises and people who lost their jobs  this is [his] financial record. Can he really handle our money better?

(In an interview four years later, the Democrat, who handily won the election, explained what had happened to his construction company: When I became involved in politics, I got into troublebecause people then were charging and not paying, and I couldnt go up to them because I was a politician. So I should have just closed it down.)

In another print ad, a Democrat supporter asked a Republican official, [R]emember some years agowhen you and I plus others went to Taipei and Hong Kong. While stopping in Manila, you gave each of us $10,000 cash to [take] out of the Philippines for you. [W]hat was that money for? Did you have an extra high-paying job in the Philippines that we didnt know about?

Another Democrat print ad asked the Republican lt. governor, For all the influence peddling that you did, we want to know sir whether you followed your partners rumored track of receiving commission for flexing your powerful muscles in government?

A Republican print ad asked one of the Democrats most prominent supporters, You speak about government vehicles and its misuse. But you totally forgot that you are a frequent user and rider of [a]Government Vehicle for your Romance with your sister-in-law? Remember? Clean your house, and speak the truth about yourself. More to come.

I particularly like a letter to the editor sent by a citizen regarding the campaign season. [I] am completely barraged through all forms of media with the campaign promises, mudslinging, rose-colored pictures painted by each candidate. I am nearly overwhelmed by the informational overload of the senses. I read each campaign ad in the papers with great interest. I listen and watch intently as the various commercials are aired on both radio and TV. I try to gather as much information as possible about each candidate and plan to factor that in as I attempt to sort all this information and make my decision who to vote for. But at the end of the day, when I can sit back, relax and free my mind of the hodgepodge of facts, figures, claims and promises [I] think about how well my life is going. Is my quality of life herebetter now than it was four years ago?  If the answer is yes I will [vote] for [the incumbent]; if not, then I will [vote] for [his opponent].

Its a tale as old as time.

Send feedback to editor@mvariety.com

Zaldy Dandan is the recipient of the NMI Society of Professional Journalists Best in Editorial Writing Award and the NMI Humanities Award for Outstanding Contributions to Journalism. His four books are available on amazon.com/.

Visited 92 times, 1 visit(s) today
Yves here. Even though the risks of nuclear war are rising, with Americas new belligerence and Israel having over-extended itself while remaining determined to subdue Iran among the elevated risks, most want to avert their eyes from this threat to humanity and a lot of life on this planet. For instance, Tucker Carlson had an extended discussion with an expert on what a nuclear war would produce, which was highly informative if also predictably deeply disturbing. Yet it got only one million views, which is light for one of his interviews. I encourage you to take the time to watch it.

Its a measure of their insanity that leaders around the world are seriously considering nuclear war. Ivana Hughes of Columbia on what that would mean. (0:00) How Powerful Are Nuclear Weapons?

(9:46) What Would Happen if a Nuke Detonated Over Times Square?

(19:53) What Is pic.twitter.com/Thux3JLtgE  Tucker Carlson (@TuckerCarlson) October 17, 2025

On a joint presentation by Theanalysis.news and The Way Forward: Regenerative Conversations, Paul Jay talks with Dr. John Izzo and Alain Gauthier about the risks of nuclear war, providing a historical perspective informed by Jays long relationship with Daniel Ellsberg.

Originally published at Theanalysis.news

This is an auto-generated version of the transcript. An edited version will be arriving shortly.

Dr John Izzo

There are three things that can end life on Earth as we know it for humanity. Two are in the news all the time, but the third one, a threat thats been around for 70 years, is almost never talked about, but we must talk about it. The first is climate change and the destruction of the environment, which is in the news all the time. The second is AI and superintelligence that may, in fact, make us pets one day. But the third one, which we dont talk about, has been around for 70 years, but the danger is as great or greater than its ever been. Most people think its just a Cold War relic, and Im talking about nuclear war. In this podcast today, we will show you why nuclear war is still an urgent and imminent issue that all of us must pay attention to with award-winning documentarian Paul Jay about his upcoming film, How to Stop Nuclear War. You dont want to miss this podcast, every minute of it, because this is the one threat thinking people are not thinking about, but we must. So Lets get started. Hi, Im Dr. John Iso, and Id like to welcome you to this episode of the Wayfoward Regenerative Conversations podcast, where, as you know, we explore issues and ideas about the future of humanity and planet, especially from this perspective of those over 60 and how we can weigh in to make a difference for future generations, whatever age you are, welcome.

Dr John Izzo

Now, todays topic is timely, its important, and its urgent, even though most of us feel that way. Heres my take. If you think about the things that concern most human beings, go to a party of thinking people, thinking about the future or the present and what worries people. You hear things about AI and the economy, and maybe AI is going to destroy the planet and make us pets. Youll certainly hear about climate change and the destruction of the environment. Youre likely to hear concern about the war in Gaza and the war in Ukraine, and perhaps the rising military in China. What you probably will not hear in even most thinking circles is any concern or conversation about nuclear war. But heres my perspective. In this generation, the Gen Zs and young millennials, about 50 to 60% of them have increasing and incredible anxiety about climate and what that means for their future and their childrens future. But they may think they have a corner on anxiety about the future. But being a baby boomer, I can tell you our anxiety about the future was all about nuclear war. War. I remember as a young child growing up in New York City, we would do drills where we hid under the desk preparing for a nuclear war, basically bend over and kiss your butt goodbye.

Dr John Izzo

I remember in the early 70s, when I was in high school, Being in New York City, knowing that we were literally at ground zero, the epicenter, if the Russians were to launch those nuclear weapons, we were going to be some of the first to go. And I remember nights when I couldnt go to sleep knowing that in just a short 18 to 20 minutes, my life and everyone that I love could be over. Now, as we fast forwarded through the years into the 80s, things started to look a little better. There started to be arms control and agreements to begin to limit nuclear arms and the nuclear arms race. There was change in the Soviet Union when the Berlin Wall fell, and suddenly it seemed like a relic of the Cold War past. But fast forward to this present moment, and I would argue that it is as dangerous or more dangerous than perhaps its ever been. Theres a new arms race going on, both in Russia, in China, and in the United States, creating new and more destabilizing weapons all the time. The flashpoints are getting greater and greater, and were living, as many people say in a recent film, in a house of dynamite.

Dr John Izzo

We literally are surrounded by weapons that could end life as we know it in a short 30 to 90 minute window, and yet were pretending that everything is fine. And thats what makes this conversation station today so important and timely, because those of us who care about the future must turn our attention again to this seeming relic of the Cold War past that is very much a present threat in reality. And today were privileged to have an award-winning Canadian film director and producer Paul Jay, who is now working on his latest project, How to Stop Nuclear War. It couldnt be more important. It couldnt be more timely. One more interesting perspective before we get started. Apparently, when Ronald Reagan first took office, really at the height of the Cold War in his presidency, he was told that he would have about six minutes, six short minutes to decide what to do in a nuclear emergency, to which Ronald Reagan supposedly said something like this, No one would be able to make a good and prudent decision in six minutes about something that important. Anyway, Alon, Im going to turn it over to you as we to welcome Paul Jay into our conversation this morning.

Alain Gauthier

Welcome, Paul. You have had a varied life.

Dr John Izzo

You once were a truck driver and worked as a railroad mechanic before becoming a filmmaker.

Paul Jay

Could you share a story or moment early in your life that set you on this journey into journalism and documentary filmmaking? I cant pick a moment, but how about a moment that pushed me towards doing this film early in my life? I also grew up with duck and cover. Im born in 1951, So when Im in public school, Im hiding under my desk. We all grew up in the 50s with a feeling of an imminent threat of nuclear war and surrounded by cold war propaganda. Not only did we fear nuclear war, we were told to fear a Soviet invasion of Europe. We were told to fear a Soviet attack on the United States. We were told that better dead than red. We grew up enveloped in a culture of deliberately created paranoia. Its only later in my life I start to realize how much of that paranoia was a fabric of lies. In 1958, 59, were told theres a bomber gap, and were told the Soviet bombers are coming in masse. That turned out to be a big lie. In fact, there was a bomber gap, but it was way, way on the side of the US.

Paul Jay

The Soviet side, barely a few bombers, nuclear bombers. We were told there was a defensive shield protecting America, Anyway, I dont know. Canada was part of it. I dont know how protected Canada was. Its called the SAGE Radar System, which I learned later was a total boondoggle. It never worked, partly because they never solved the problem of radar jamming. But get this, the SAGE Radar System. This is starting in the late 50s into the early 60s, which almost no ones ever heard of. Im guessing none of you guys have ever heard of it. The SAGE Radar System cost three times the Manhattan Project. It was over. It was close to 1. 5 % of the GDP of the United States, and no ones ever heard of the damn thing. Not only that, it never worked. And theres studies that were commissioned by Mactamara, where it says right clearly in the studies, the thing never worked. Its the beginning of the anti-ballistic missile system, boondoggles. And in the film, were going to tell this whole story, because where are we now? The Golden Dome, the latest of the Bundogels. Anyway, I grew up in the early 60s, the Cuban Missile Crisis, the assassination of Kennedy.

Paul Jay

So by the time Im about 14, 15, I decide Im done with school because I wont live till 20. And so I quit school in grade 10, and I dont go back. And its A little bit like Ellsbergs story in some ways, when he went to work at RAN Corporation, he was offered a pension. Hes about 30 years old when he goes to RAN, 29. He just laughs and refuses the pension plan. Theres no way Ill be around to collect the pension. So at any rate, I grew up believing, and rightly so to a large extent, that that nuclear war could happen at any time. Now, as you mentioned in your excellent introduction, John, that we all started saying, Well, maybe it aint going to happen. And certainly by the 90s, it seemed the Cold War was over and the threat was diminished. And now I, too, was much more concerned about climate and other kinds of conventional war and economic inequality and so on. Then I read Ellsbergs book, Doomsday Machine: Confessions of a Nuclear War Planner. And I read that about 2018. Then I did a long series of interviews with Dan. Then I realized that book and what Dan had to say, in some ways, was maybe the most important thing Id ever read, given what was at stake.

Paul Jay

So I talked to Dan and decided to make the film. The short of the story is Dan was a very committed cold warrior. He grew up in this culture of this deliberately constructed expected exaggeration of the Soviet threat. And I can talk a little more about it, but what it really is about, and were going to get into this in the film, its a culture that has began long before there even was a Soviet Union.

Dr John Izzo

So Paul, first of all, thank you for that. I really want to get into your relationship with Daniel Ellsberg. And for those of you who dont remember, Daniel was an insider in the US government, in the military complex in the CIA. And then hes the one famous for leaking the Pentagon papers about the lies during the Vietnam War, and then really became an incredible activist, as you said, with his book about doomsday, but an incredible activist well into his 80s and early 90s around nuclear war. But lets start, Paul, at the highest level. So many people, as you said, think of it as this Cold War relic. Tell us why The first headline, then I want to get into your experience with Daniel, why we ought to be concerned about this now. Why is it as important or maybe even more dangerous than its ever I think its actually more dangerous than its ever been. And I wonder what your thoughts are. Whats the headline? Give people why, folks, this is not something of the past.

Paul Jay

Well, the first point is the Cold War never ended. So people that talk about its the most dangerous time since the end of the Cold War. The Cold War didnt end because the Cold War was never about Soviet military expansion. That was the excuse. But there was no Soviet military expansion, and thats been clearly documented now. Once the Yalta Agreement was done, yes, there was interventions in Czechoslovakia. There was an intervention by the Soviet Hungary. The only real military adventure you could say the Soviet Union did outside of the Yalta Agreement was the invasion of or intervention in Afghanistan. And that was clearly a defensive posture. I mean, Afghanistan was on their border, and the Americans, Brzezinski, loved to brag about how they sucked the Soviet Union into that by arming the jihadists with anti-helicopter missiles and so on. But But it was very well known. And when I say very well known, I mean by those people that had access to the intelligence. The CIA was producing report every single year, 46, 47, 48, all through the late 40s, into the 50s and the headline of the reports, and we have those reports, and well show them in the film.

Paul Jay

The title of the reports were, Is the Soviet Union a threat, a military threat, to Europe and the the United States? And year after year, the conclusion of the CIA was, no, theres no military threat. Theyre in a defensive posture. Theres even a report thats titled, Now that the Soviet Union has a nuclear weapon, is it a military threat? And the conclusion was, no, they have nuclear weapons in a defensive posture because we have nuclear weapons. It is not an offensive threat. Even George Kennen, who was a very senior American diplomat, had this famous cable he sent, author by Mr. X, but it turns out it was George Kennen. He said, and so did many others in very senior levels of the Truman administration. This is a political ideological threat to the American global system. Maybe not exact words, but close. Its not a military threat. And that is the The real gist of the Cold War was that, and this planning begins, were going to document, the planning begins in 1939, 1940, working led by the Council on Foreign Relations, funded by the Rockefellers. The planning for this begins during the war, and its essentially what Henry Luce, the guy who published Time, Life magazine, its the American Century.

Paul Jay

And the American Century was very straightforward. It was a plan that the entire non-Soviet world must be part of an American-led global capitalism. And the fundamental mission of US foreign policy is to prevent countries leaving the American sphere and joining a socialist sphere. And it wasnt about Soviet military expansionism. The truth is, the real thing they were afraid of were national liberation movements in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, and that they would become socialist. They tried to dress this up and frame it as Soviet military expansionism. But where does the US go to war first in a major way? Korea. They knew the Soviets were not going to intervene in Korea. Cia was saying it. They knew there was no Chinese intervention planned later that comes. But did the Chinese intervene because the Americans did intervene. Wheres the next big war? Vietnam. Had nothing to do with Soviet military expansionism. They knew very well, in fact, that the Vietnamese National Liberation Movement had started right after the war, when the French tried to recolonize Vietnam. It was an independent, indigenous, you could say, National Liberation Movement. It had popular support. And in an American documents, and Dan knew this well from the Pentagon papers, if there had been an election, it was well known, Ho-Chimmin would have won the election.

Paul Jay

It had popular support. So the intervention in Vietnam had nothing to do with Soviet military expansionism. It had to do with defending the American sphere. And its very interesting. Were studying these history, the Council on Foreign Relations now. They actually did a study on could the United States go it alone? Meaning, could you have a world where Britain, United States, South America essentially create a block and forget about the rest of the world? And the answer was not without Indochina. That the American economic prosperity was the term they used, couldnt survive without the rubber, the tin, three quarters of the worlds rice production. You needed Indochina as part of a geopolitical positioning in order to have a successful American global system. So the invasion of Vietnam, again, had nothing to do with Soviet expansionism, but it did have to do with preventing national liberation movements, detaching from the American sphere and trending, gravitating towards socialism. So that has not ended. Thats still the system, the outlook. Thats still the world vision we belong in. Nato was not created to protect Europe from a Soviet invasion. Nato was created to ensnare Europe in the American sphere, to make sure that Europe, both economically and in terms of its military infrastructure, was within the American sphere.

Paul Jay

But it was a plan that learned from the end of World War I. Instead of destroying and seeking compensation from the defeated Germany and Japan, they allowed these countries to rebuild in a way that they stayed within the American sphere. So they learned from World War I. And this was actually what the whole role of the Council on Foreign Relations was during this planning of World War II. The basic point is the DNA of the system is seeking monopoly, seeking monopoly, even just Corporation versus Corporation. But that seeking a monopoly exists as a fundamental economic driver globally. And if youre not a country thats big enough to be the hegemon, you jump on the hegemon train like Canada. Canada didnt get the cards dealt to become the hegemon. So Canada rides the US gravy, plundering the world old gravy train. And were a significant arms manufacturer in Canada. I think were number nine or 10 in the world. So a lot of arms, including parts of the nuclear. So the fundamental thing now is the contention with China Number one, the system was always meant that there should never be a peer competitor. They use this term in the last even 20 years called the all full spectrum dominance.

Paul Jay

Well, you cant have full spectrum dominance when you have not just a pure competitor, a competitor thats winning the commercial rivalry. Number two, you cant allow Russia into Europe in a full way. It has too much potential to be too big, too powerful. And it threaten NATO, not because its a military threat, but Russia has the potential, and certainly in the history, the 1800s, 1900s, even go back in the 1700s. I mean, Russia has the potential to be a heavyweight player. And imagine if Russia, after the 90s had been incorporated into Europe. And imagine if there had been a Russian-German-French alliance, well, US would have essentially lost its dominant position in Europe. That helped fuel the development of a very toxic regime, which is what exists now in Russia. The same way Im jumping to things. Im assuming your viewers know a lot of what Im saying. The way the Versailles Treaty helped fuel the rise of fascism in Germany, this excluding of Russia from modern Europe after the fall of the Soviet Union helped fuel a very toxic, I dont know if the word fascist is quite right, but its pretty close. They use authoritarian, but the toxic regime that exists in Russia now.

Paul Jay

So the Cold War never ended. And because of two fracture points that are so tense, the toxic regime, which the West helped create, and the invasion of Ukraine, and now the possibilities that it could lead to other fractures, and who knows what will happen in Georgia. But mostly its China. And the contention in the South China Sea, the fight over Taiwan, the necessity of the American military-industrial complex and nuclear complex to have an existential enemy, number one. Otherwise, how do you justify spending so much money, which has really been one of the cores of the whole thing. Number two, there is a real belief system in the people that run these things. What I mean these things, not who run the state, who run the Pentagon, who run companies like Palantier, Karp or Peter Thiel, whos one of the founders of Palantier. Hes an investor in Andrew. They actually believe their own bullshit. I believe they believe it the same way Hitler believed his metaphysics. And this belief system is deeply embedded in American culture because it goes right back to slave owners who believed that the defense of private property equalled freedom. So if you can get your head around, defending slavery defends freedom.

Paul Jay

If you grow up in that milieu, that culture, that white supremacy, which is the core of slave plantation owners culture. When you get your head around, somehow that equals Christianity. Somehow that represents Jesus. Somehow that represents freedom. Remember, the founders of America and the American Revolution were slave owners. Yet theyre talking all men are equal. Once you can get your head around this weird dualism, compartmentalism, thats the core of American elite culture. So you get Dick Cheneys funerals going on as we speak. How does someone like that purely believe, just say any bullshit to make money, like Cheneys connection to Halliburton or the striving to grab Iraqi oil. I think they actually believe that thats justifiable in the same way slave owners thought slavery was justifiable because they represent civilization. They They represent really what it is they believe in social Darwinism. They really believe that survival of the fittest is what drives human progress. And if were making money along the way, thats just part of how the system works. Its the same way people that ran tobacco companies could justify, even though theyre hiding tobacco studies, they let their kids smoke tobacco executives because it got them ahead in the tobacco companies.

Paul Jay

So its an internalized view of the world that you can understand when you understand how the slave system works, because its a continuation of that mentality.

Dr John Izzo

So Paul, one of the things that as I listened to you, which I think important for people in the West to recognize, is that in many ways the West drove the arms rights for all kinds of reasons that youve really are articulated. And as you said, we could get into a whole conversation about the way we were with Russia post the fall of the Berlin Wall that helped, in a way, set up the Putin regime, et cetera. But I dont want to go into that. But I think youve done a great job of showing the arc of how we got to this moment. And yet at the moment that were at now, we have now North Korea, really the first rogue state in the nuclear. If you think about it, theyre really the first unstable state.

Paul Jay

Can I disagree with you? First rogue state is the United States.

Dr John Izzo

I understand what youre doing, but by rogue, what I mean is an unpredictable state. One of the reasons the Cold War was able to One reason we didnt blow ourselves up during the Cold War, in my view, is we had two relatively stable states that had this equilibrium. And I dont want to get too much into North Korea, but meaning now youve done a great job of showing historically how we got here. But now we have as many nuclear weapons as weve ever had. The system is becoming more advanced than theyve ever been, more players than theyve ever been. And so youve done a great job setting up to this moment that weve come to. And I guess one of the questions then becomes, how do we stop nuclear war in this moment? I wonder if I can bracket that for the moment and talk about Daniel Ellsberg. Give it a little teaser for audience because I obviously want to get into how do we stop nuclear war now. But can we talk a little bit about your experience with Ellsberg? Im going to turn it over to Alon, but I want to come back to that question.

Dr John Izzo

I hope youre enjoying this conversation were having with Paul Jay about how to stop nuclear war as much as we are. Theres so many good things yet to come, so please dont leave. But I wanted to take a moment and thank you for being a part of our community and to encourage you to subscribe on whatever channel youre watching or listening to this podcast on. First of all, if you subscribe, it means that you will get notified every time a new podcast comes out and really be sent to our old library as well. Second, it helps us to grow this community and spread these great ideas.

Paul Jay

And please make a comment, because every time you make a comment, it engages others to be in the conversation, which is really what this podcast is all about.

Dr John Izzo

One more thing before we get back to our conversation with Paul Jay. In just a short time now, on December second, at 08: 00 AM Pacific Time, were having a live podcast, our first live podcast on Climate Crossroads: Why Havent We Made More Progress and How Can We Make It Now? So please in the show notes, youll notice a link to sign up for that December second live podcast. Its our first one, and wed love to have you be a part of it. Now, lets get back to this important conversation. You said that your upcoming film, How to Stop a Nuclear War, is inspired, at least in part by Daniel Eswells book, The Doomsday Machine.

Paul Jay

So whats from Ellsberg thinking most shaped your approach? And what did you learn in your conversations with him? Well, first of all, his arc as a true believer in the Cold War, to over years of discovering how what he believed to be true turned out to be lies. Even during the Pentagon papers, even when hes exposing the lies of the Vietnam War, he hasnt fully realized just what a complete fabric of BS he still believed, even after the trial. When people dont know the story. He was charged with, I guess, espionage or leaking secret documents. And the trial gets kicked because of the Watergate plumbers broke into his psychiatrist office. So it was prosecutorial misconduct, and they threw the case out. Then he starts reading. And he starts reading people like Chomsky and Howard Zinn. He just reads and reads and reads. And the light bulb goes off for him. This isnt just bad policy. Its not just a mistake. Its systemic. Its in the DNA of the way the system works, this military expansionism. So his arc is fascinating because it keeps making me remember that people of good intent really believe believed in the Cold War, and they didnt have access to the intelligence.

Paul Jay

They didnt understand the historical development. And that gives me some hope that if Ellsberg can come to realize these things, well, maybe theres other people within these institutions. And you see like an Edward Snowden type. You see these Larry Wilkersons like that. I mean, Larry was fully believing in the In fact, Larry, I guess people know he was Colin Powells Chief of Staff, he volunteered to go to Vietnam because he thought he was fighting against the Communist scourge. And later in life, he denounced the Iraq war, and he starts to realize he believed in a bunch of bullshit. Now, this It wasnt to say the Soviet Union wasnt a police state. Let me get to this a bit. It doesnt quite directly answer your Ellsberg question, but it doesnt get talked about enough. You cant equate communism with Stalinism. Its one form of socialism. Theres many different forms, just as there are many forms of capitalism. You cant equate capitalism with Hitler, or Pinochet, or Mussolini, These are particularly malignant forms of capitalism, and Stalinism became a particularly malignant form of socialism. And I wont get in the reasons why now. But people People say, and I know this is not your question, but Im going to answer it anyway.

Paul Jay

People say, well, where has there been a more positive model of socialism? Where is socialism not become a police state? And its a very simple answer. Nowhere. Why? Because the Americans kept killing anybody that tried it. In Chile, you have a popularly elected President, Allende, who tries to develop a democratic democratic form of socialism, and the US, aligned with Chilean elites, stage a coup and kill the guy. In Indonesia, you had a Communist Party that participated in elections, had a democratic view of how to develop power. And the US and the Indonesian elites were so terrified that they would win the election. They killed a million Communist and left wingers. A million. Blood was literally flowing in the streets. Lumumba in Africa, a Nationalist, but a Socialist. In no way a sympathizer of anything like Stalinism. They assassinated Lumumba. Even in Europe. After the war, in 1948, I guess it is, the Italian Communist Party, which was participating in the elections, rejected Stalinism. I mean, they still had formal ties, but the model of socialism they wanted to develop in Italy had nothing to do with what was going on in the Soviet Union. The Americans put in millions and millions of dollars to defeat the communists in the election and created a secret organization called P2.

Paul Jay

I dont know if you guys have heard of this thing called Gladio. Its this whole secret plan in many European countries under the auspices of NATO to interfere in any election in any country where they thought the Socialists/Communists might come to power. And Berlusconi is the product of P2, and P2 worked with the Mafia. This is all on Wikipedia. This stuff is very available. Just look up Gladio, look up P2. The point is we havent seen this model of a democratic form of socialism. And Im not just talking socialism like free busses. And Im not critiquing Mandani in New York. Theres only so much you can do under these situations. But there were attempts to develop democratic models, and they were crushed. So Ill stop there. If you want to know more about that, Ill go on. Anyway, Dan started to realize all this. And so that taught me something about the importance of dont write people off just because they believe the Cold War mythology. I was going to do a film about 9/11, and I was going to take a group of 9/11 families to Afghanistan and Pakistan, and Im just going to follow them around and get them to ask people Why do you hate us?

Paul Jay

Just that. And let these families hear the answer. Anyway, so one of the guys I was going to take was a fire chief, whose son was a fireman, killed in the towers. He was a fire chief at 9/11 as well. He formed something after 9/11 called Democrats for Bush because he thought you got to rally around your president. Anyway, I told him just a little bit about the history of modern Afghanistan, how it was the US that brought bin Laden to Afghanistan. It was part of the scheme of sucking the Russians into the war and so on. He didnt know any of it. He didnt know a single thing about the actual history, what led to the death of his son. And his jaw dropped. So part of dealing with the danger of nuclear war today, this is why Im going on about this stuff, is you have to dispel the mythology of the Cold War because everyone looks at it through that prism. So when we hear the Chinese are coming to get us, the Chinese want to control the world. The Chinese are going to have a military that can dominate the world.

Paul Jay

People tend to believe it because weve been told about this external, exaggerated threat from the time were born. So if you get the history of the threat has been driven primarily by economic factors. Theres a term called military Keynesianism. After World War II, this is a very important point were going to make in the film. The New Deal didnt solve the problem of the Great Depression. It mitigated the effects for a short time, but that level of government spending wasnt nearly enough. So what actually did, World War II did, because of the massive government spending. Thats what actually plugged the hole, if you want, of the economic crisis. So when the war is coming to an end, even during the war, when they see how its going to end, theres a big decision to be made. How are you going to plug that hole that still exists? You need government spending. Is it going to be back to the New deal, but at a much higher level, which is what Vice President Henry Wallace wanted. And if you know the Wallace story, Roosevelts vice President, they dumped Wallace in 44, I guess it is, because he wants a New deal on steroids.

Paul Jay

Or do you go to military expansionism and use the military-industrial complex as a way to stimulate the economy? And of course, we know what they chose, and we can go into why they chose that versus the New Deal. But its essentially the New Deal gave the workers leverage because they didnt have to fear unemployment. They didnt have to fear being desperate. Where military expansionism is just boondoggle after bloody boondogle, essentially war profiteering. But its also together with geopolitical dominance. So the risk today is, this is a continuation, is it more dangerous? Yeah. And I take your point. They knew the Soviet side were very rational. Whatever was going on domestically. I interviewed Sam Nunn, and he made a really good point. Senator Sam Nun, hes retired now. See, During the Cold War, there was all kinds of negotiations going on for various forms of arms limitations treaties. There were treaties agreed. One of the more important actually was the 72 Anti-Balistic Missile Treaty.  But none made a very important point. The two sides were talking to each other. He was saying thats almost more important than the agreements because they got to know each other and they realized they werent so different.

Paul Jay

They both sides wanted to avoid nuclear war. Well, now nobodys talking to anybody. The regime, government, and power in Russia is very toxic, very nationalistic. I dont know if its irony, but Putin represents the center, not the right. Hes pressured by the Russian right, the Orthodox Church, even the so-called Communist Party, virulent Nationalist forces. Ive interviewed progressive Russians. They say, Putin may be doing terrible things, but if you want Putin to overthrow him, be careful what you wish for, because theres a lot of the forces on his right that likely will come. Anyway, the real issue is going to become, is and will be China, because the very deeply rooted foreign policy outlook is you cant have a peer competitor. Two, theyre dedicated to almost war with China. And even people like Mirresheimer, who talk about, dont inflame the situation with the Russians and His critique of NATO is, I think, mostly right. I think he exaggerates it. But even Mirresheimer thinks the defense of the American sphere of influence in Asia is legitimate. Its very dangerous because the system itself, the global capitalist system managed by the United States, is reaching an endpoint. First of all, the climate crisis Theyre in such denial or theyve given up.

Paul Jay

The billionaire class thinks they and their grandchildren will be okay, and they dont want to think any further. The smart ones, no. Were here already. Two Degrees is already baked in. Were within 10, 15 years, and maybe less, of millions of people in the South have to go north. Were within maybe 15 years, where much of the agriculture of the United States and China will be wiped out. But theyre in denial. They dont want to deal with it. War has always been the answer. Whenever the system is in deep crisis, the answer has always been war. The problem now is youre dealing with so much nuclear weapon capacity and the introduction of AI. You get a convergence of the climate crisis, nuclear powers who dont even talk to each other, a ramping up of American threats to China over Taiwan. Taiwan, which is the craziest situation. How do you have a one China policy and still think you can defend Taiwan? I dont understand. The other big lesson from Ellsberg, its not an all or nothing proposition. Its not nuclear weapons end of the world or abolish nuclear weapons. There are steps that could be taken to reduce the risk.

Paul Jay

Thats the big practical lesson from Ellsberg. Number one, Get rid of ICBMs. Theyre pointless. All they are is targets. When you have this six minutes thing, the six minutes is only because its a use them or lose them with ICBMs. But the whole mythology of that is that you cant stop whats coming in anyway. So you might as well let it hit and see if its real. Nobody wants to say that. This recent film, House of Dynamite. Some of the things in it are terrible. This idea that a missile hits Chicago, but youve only got 10 minutes to decide whether to launch your ICBM. I mean, one thing is, first of all, Chicago doesnt have any ICBM, so its got absolutely nothing to do with it. You could get rid of ICBMs. You could renegotiate an anti-ballistic missile treaty. You could get rid of sole authority. You could stop absolute any talk of testing. And now Putin and Trump are both talking about restarting testing. Our film, once we get in, Were going to deal with a historical context so people can clear their minds of the paranoia, then lets focus on practical steps because there are some that at least reduce the risks.

Paul Jay

But instead of focusing on reducing the risk, whats actually happening? A new nuclear arms race and an AI arms race.

Dr John Izzo

Yeah. So Paul, again, so much done. Thank you for sharing those extra. I want to come back to those points in a moment. But just to put some exclamation points, some things you already said. One is that this mentality of theres only going to be one winner and one loser, and were not going to talk to each other. One of my mentors was John Morozo, a friend who started the East-West Institute. In the height of the Cold War, hes one of the few people who go to the Kremlin and the White House. But your point is, they were talking to each other. And this whole idea, which I feel like, of course, I cant stand Trump. But one thing I think Trump has over Biden is Trump at least thinks you got to talk to people. Hes not the right guy to talk to people. But Biden was like, Were not going to talk to you, right? We have to talk to people, and we have to assume that its going to be a multipolar world now. Americans must give up the idea that American will be the only hegemon in the world until we give that up.

Dr John Izzo

Economically, of course, its a race. We want to win the economic race, so to speak. But we have to recognize its not going to be a one nation world anymore. And until we give that up. And thats what you said. Thats whats driven so much of this. We need to talk to each other. And then youre getting into now the Even in Ellsbergs original book, The Doomsday Machine, he talked about how fragile the systems were. And now AI, as you said, now a part of that. How so much of the decision making, if the President was to, for example, become incapacitated, is now delineated down to others, so others could decide to launch nuclear weapons. And so, as you said, you gave four really important things, but they all begin talking to each other again. And of course, Ukraine hasnt helped that. The situation in Ukraine has not helped that at all. And theres all kinds of historical reasons why that came to be. But that has certainly complicated things hasnt it? Because its made relationships with, especially, though I agree with you, in the big China is probably the bigger issue in the long term.

Dr John Izzo

But also just, as you said, still having this house of dynamite around us. And its a powder waiting for a spark.

Paul Jay

I want to go back to something you said right at the very beginning. Why are we talking about this? Why is the issue of nuclear weapons and American nuclear policy essentially taboo? In the last elections, the only person that even mentioned nuclear weapons, presidential elections, was Trump, and only to promote his Golden Dome boondoggle. I call it the Golden Con. My other line is, its not Its not about the dome, its about the gold. But other than that, nobody even talks about it. In the media, you dont hear a word about nuclear weapons. So why is that? Because the whole nuclear doctrine, the nuclear structure, the nuclear weapons, the whole thing is based on such mythology, lies, nonsense. Anyone that looks at it, how are you risking the Apocalypse? Theres no way its not going to blow up someday. Anyone that studies this knows and says, Everybody Ive talked to, and Ive talked to now, maybe 200 leading experts. They all think its essentially inevitable. Someday theres going to be a mistake, a miscalculation. I actually dont think its very likely theres going to be a deliberate nuclear war. I dont think the North Koreans are insane.

Paul Jay

It may be a bizarre nutty system. Not maybe, it is, from what I can see. I havent been there. But theyre not suicidal. The real danger right now, and its high, is as tension increases over Taiwan, over the Philippines, that something happens, a bunch of space garbage knocks out some strategic satellites. Ai misinterprets it as the beginning of a first strike. Ive raised this with various experts who all think this is a plausible scenario. This use them or lose them thing. Its so nonsensical Because theres only one way to know if an attack is real, if you see something coming in, is you got to let it hit. If you let it hit, number one, you always have subs. So its not like youre going to lose your second strike capability. Number two, you cant stop it anyway. Its going to hit. Its not like your choice, Oh, let them hit. Its going to hit. Theres no such thing as stopping an incoming ICBM attack. They talk about it now with Golden Dome, youre going to be able to Maybe you couldnt stop a bullet with a bullet, but now that you have AI, that was the terminology, a missile bringing down an ICBM, its like hitting a bullet with a bullet.

Paul Jay

For the sake of argument, lets say AI could hit a bullet with a bullet, and even yet, theres no evidence of that. But lets say AI cannot distinguish between a bullet and a bullshit. No missile comes in just as a missile. It comes in surrounded by hundreds of decays. Theres no AI in the world thats going to be able to tell the difference between a missile. So So there is no such thing like he wants to compare the Golden Dome to the Israeli Iron Shield. Those are not ICBMs that are coming in. Theyre just ballistic missiles. Icbms come in at thousands of miles per hour faster. I mean, its just nonsense. So the only thing is to be honest about there is no defense. Number two, why the hell is anyone launching a first strike anyway? Why would they? Russia, China? They know the US has subs, number one. Number two, why would China that owns a trillion or more of US dollars, theyre going to want to take out the American economy? Its nonsense. Its ridiculousness. So they dont talk about nuclear weapons because the whole thing is utter BS, and always has been utter BS.

Paul Jay

Even the bombing of Hiroshima, Nagasaki was bullshit. It didnt end the war. Its clearly documented now.

Dr John Izzo

One of the points that you hint at here, Paul, is its really a miracle it hasnt happened, given how unstable it is. And I saw in one of your interviews, the interviewer mentioned that the former head of the strategic command in the US had said, Why hasnt there been a nuclear war? He said, The incredible good sense of a few people. He said, Blind luck and divine intervention. And to the This suicidal point, I was speaking at the College of Charleston just after the Ukraine war started, and one of the people on the program with me was the woman who had negotiated the last strategic arms treaty for NATO with the Russians. And I asked her on the side, I said, Are you worried that Putin is going to go nuclear? And she said, Well, its a danger, of course, she said, because of miscalculation. She said, But no, because I dont think hes suicidal. But you know what I thought, Paul? Thats a pretty thin thread that were hanging by to assume that we might one day have a leader who is suicidal. So even that isnt a guarantee. As long as we have the house of Dynamite going, we cant count on that one day.

Dr John Izzo

There might be a leader with them who is suicidal.

Paul Jay

We say Nixon in his last days was suicidal deep, deep in depression and alcohol. And his wife and the senior staff around him had to push him out of power. And Dan Ellsberg certainly believed that Nixon planned to use nuclear weapons in Vietnam. Yeah, thats a real danger. But the bigger danger, and they dont want to talk about it, is you cannot trust the system of sensors and satellites and now AI. And theres so much potential for miscalculation when the underlying truth is there actually is no threat. Its just ridiculous. No major power is going to start a nuclear war deliberately. So if thats true, get rid of this bullshit deterrence that just justifies an unlimited spending on arms, which is what its really about. And not only in the United States, theres a military-industrial complex in Russia, theres one in China, but it is mostly driven by the American side. So let me jump to another endpoint here. What can we do? First of all, start talking about it to everybody you know. Ask people, Do you think about this? Do you know there might be some concrete things that could be done to reduce the risk?

Paul Jay

Because nobody really talks about that at all. In Congress, theres a little handful of members of the Senate and the House who actually focus on this stuff. But much Much bigger than them is something called the ICBM Caucus, that represent the states that have ICBMs, and fight every attempt to get rid of ICBMs. Sam Nunn says, Get rid of ICBM. Former SACDF Perry says, Get rid of ICBMs. A whole whack of senior military political leaders say, get rid of ICBMs, because right now that is what leads to launch on warning. And they do nothing. Subs can do whatever ICBMs do. You Dont lose your deterrence. So its a very concrete step. So when the film comes out, which will be in the early fall of 2027, because were going to film the midterm elections, and were going to go ask these kinds of questions to people that are voting, got election rallies, were going to corner candidates and ask, Why arent you talking about this stuff? We got to break the taboo on not talking about the nuclear risk. I ask a guy, Mark Bly, I dont know if you heard him, a great political economist.

Paul Jay

He advises big corporations and all that. And I said, why arent the elites more freaked out? Why isnt Wall Street freaked out? And they bloody well own all these companies making nuclear weapons. They could stop it overnight. Why arent they freaked out? He said, The problem with nuclear war and nuclear risk is you cant hedge against it. Meaning its an all or nothing proposition. Its a nuclear war, and were all wiped out, but theres no or. So if you cant hedge the risk, its better to ignore it, be in denial. So were allowing the elites The billionaire class who are in an orgy of profit making. Theres been nothing like it in the history of humanity. So much concentration of wealth and power. They would rather be in denial, live on their yachts and have their girls and whatever their thing is. And theyre leading us over the cliff. So we have to decide not to let them decide the fate of humanity. And the start of it is, lets bloody at least talk about this stuff. Dont vote for anybody who doesnt have this as part of their campaign. And from that perspective, Paul, if you could speak directly to ordinary citizens who feel powerless in the face of such a huge issue, nuclear war, what can they actually do that matters now?

Paul Jay

Well, two things. In the elections, keep raising this issue. Say, Im not voting for you unless you have a real plan how to reduce the risk of nuclear war. And I dont care what party you are. If you dont have that plan, at least force these, go to all candidates meetings, go to election rallies, anywhere you can. If youre at a school or a church or a union, Get them to take a position on this. Film comes out. We hope the film becomes a tool for people to learn and educate themselves about these issues, promote the film. Make it personal because it is personal because Its you and your kids. This is the most important thing to get. Its not necessarily all or nothing. Yeah, nuclear war wipes us all out. Theres no question. Any BS that will recover in a year is just nonsense. But we can reduce Its the risk of error and miscalculation, which is the bigger danger right now. So we got to put it on your agenda. Youre at dinner with somebody. You know what I heard? Everybody wherever you are in society, most people belong to something, even its a Rotary Club, the Legion.

Paul Jay

And it doesnt matter. Its one of these rare issues that transcends normal political divisions. Nobody wants a nuclear war. It doesnt matter. I would guess 90 % of people that vote for Trump dont want a nuclear war. I dont think Trump wants a nuclear war. But the problem with Trump is, one, theres so much money to be made out of almost war. And two, the Golden Dome is the biggest boondoggle you can imagine, and hes surrounded by crazies and by those the crazies, I mean like Peter Thiel and Alex Karp and others in Silicon Valley who are essentially techno-fascists, techno-Christian, religious fascists, who are creating the same metaphysical view of the world that surrounded Hitler and Mussolini. And maybe Hitler is even more an example. And people like Peter Thiel actually quote Nazis in his own writings. I guess we can talk about another So it is a very dangerous moment, but dont get paralyzed by it.

Dr John Izzo

Very important points there, Paul, and we cant wait to see the film. I mean, its so timely and so important, as I said in the opening, because were not talking about it, because were pretending its not going on. And youre right. One reason is because you cant hedge. Theres a great story, actually, during the Cuban Missile Crisis. True story, about a young stockbroker who was out selling everything in the height of the Cuban Missile Crisis. His boss said, What the hell are you doing? He said, Im selling everything? Theres a rumor that the missiles are on the way. He said, No, buy everything. He said, Because if the missiles are on the way, it doesnt matter. But if the missiles dont come, everythings going to go up. But that denial is part of the problem, isnt it? That its so big, its so frightening. Its such an end of the world. We know no matter rich you are, you cant hide from That doesnt make it less important. It maybe makes it more important for films like yours because thats why were not talking about it, because its so big and we feel so powerless.

Dr John Izzo

And we feel, Oh, it cant possibly happen because It cant be that stupid, right? But as you said, the real danger is miscalculation is more likely if somebody decides to go suicidal, though we know thats possible, but we know thats the least likely. Let me just say it again.

Paul Jay

Get rid of ICBM, no golden dawn, No new testing. Even its just starting just those three things, even. Greatly reduce the risk of nuclear war.

Dr John Izzo

And it all begins, and I think you made a great point, Paul. Unfortunately, time touches slightly. Were going to have to end now. Is that it begins with us as citizens have to ask these questions. Weve got to put it on the agenda. Politicians, whats the main driver of all politicians, except for a few with deep values, to win the next election? If the citizens dont care about it, theyre probably not going to talk about it, except for, again, there are issues. Obviously, there are people of great character in politics, too. But the reality is they respond to us. So weve got to get this on the agenda. And thank you for taking on this project and for your lifes work. We really appreciate the time youve given us today.

Paul Jay

Thank you. And Ill just add not only elections, but be ready to hit the streets, too.

Dr John Izzo

Yeah, definitely. Were going to have to.

Paul Jay

This needs mass protests. We have to converge the climate and the nuclear issues whos in really hit the streets and be very vigilant at the ballot box.

Dr John Izzo

Excellent. Alon, Ill give you a chance to just say a final word, and then Ill close this up. It was a final word in the frame of the question for me, too, after spending so much time immersed in this existential threat. How do you personally stay grounded and hopeful?

Paul Jay

Thats funny. I asked Ellsberg that because he smiles all the time. I dont smile anywhere like he does. He would say, he would talk about the end the world and then break out in a big smile. But I define myself as a clinical optimist. Every rational bone in my body would lead me to being rather pessimistic. But humanity has overcome pretty terrible things in the past. And whats the alternative? Im not going to live a life of being depressed and succumbing to the paranoia and the fear. Its a better life to fight. Its a better life to fight for humanity. And Ill just end with one thing. The other thing people need, I think, give up. Give up our American identity, Canadian identity. Start to detach from all this national identity, because what we are, objectively, are humans. That should be our identity. Were humans. And there arent going to be many humans if we dont step up.

Dr John Izzo

Well, thank you, Paul. Great, great way to end. So to close us out, Leonin Brejnev, the former head of the Soviet Union, once said about nuclear war. He said, There are no winners in nuclear war. The living would envy the dead. Almost all the people whove had their hands on those weapons have realized that in one form or another. I go back to my own childhood, and you share that, Paul. I we all do in this podcast today, of that fear I felt as a young person just being in New York City and knowing that we were targeted, those ICBMs could come at any moment. And we cant be paralyzed by that fear, but we cant hide from it either. Just because the truth is difficult, just because the truth is overwhelming, doesnt mean we can run away from it. So thank you for shining a light on this. We hope we in this podcast have shown a light on this thing that continues to be an existential threat to all of us and really to all life on Earth. Youre a part of our community because you care about the future, and thats why we would love to hear from you.

Dr John Izzo

If you love what youve seen today, please share it. If youd like to see something different, please tell us and make sure to subscribe on any channel that youre on and like it. It helps us and it helps you. Meanwhile, we always remind you at the end of every podcast, history is not a destination waiting for us to arrive. What we will we one day call history will be the result of what we, you and I, and each of us together, choose to do right now in this moment, which will shape what we one day will call history. Well see you next time on the way forward.

Alain Gauthier

Thank you for joining us in this episode of The Way forward: Regenerative Conversations podcast. Im Jim Burke, the producer. Wed like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our sponsors, elders Action Network and elders Climate Action for their unwavering support in making this podcast possible. Their dedication to empowering elders to take action on climate change and social justice issues is truly inspiring. If you found this conversation as enlightening and motivating as we did, please subscribe to our podcast and YouTube channels. Your subscription helps us continue bringing these vital discussions to a broader audience. Dont forget to share this episode with your network, and lets work together to build a better world for all generations. Find us on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Amazon, and now on Instagram and YouTube Shorts. Together, we can make a difference. Wed love to hear your feedback on todays episode and any suggestions you have for future guests. Please send your thoughts and recommendations to thewayforwardrc@gmail. Com. Your input is invaluable in helping us shape the future of this podcast. To learn more about our sponsors and get involved, visit eldersactionnetwork@eldersaction. Org and eldersclimateaction@eldersclimateaction. Org. Thank you for being part of the Wayforward community.
Honduras may be a relatively small country but there is a huge amount riding on this Sundays election result  not just regionally but perhaps even globally.

First, it was Brazil.

In July, as readers may recall, the Trump administration imposed 50% tariffs on many Brazilian goods and imposed sanctions on a Brazilian Supreme Court justice  all in a bid to keep former President Jair Bolsonaro out of jail for plotting an attempted coup. According to Stephen Olson, visiting senior fellow at Singapores ISEASYusof Ishak Institute, it was unprecedented for the US to impose a tariff on a foreign country to stop a judicial proceeding,

Bolsonaros son, Eduardo, had reportedly lobbied Washington to impose the tariffs against his own country, all in order to save his fathers skin. He now faces criminal charges of coercion.

Then, just two months later, it was Argentinas turn.

As the Milei government faced the prospect of financial collapse and a humiliating defeat to the Peronists in the mid-term elections in late October, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent came to the rescue with a pledge of large and forceful American support  but only if the country voted for Milei.

As Charlie Garcia wrote in a recent op-ed for Market Watch, Washington mobilised all its economic power to buy the election, rescued some Wall Street bigshots along the way, many with close ties to Bessent, and left everyone else holding the tab:

In the case of Argentina, the Trump administrations election meddling paid off handsomely. On Oct. 26, Mileis party won 41% of the vote versus 31% for the Peronists. In Buenos Aires province, where the libertarians lost by 13 points in September, they won by a half point. Mileis coalition tripled its congressional representation. And the US now has first dibs on Argentine lithium, gas and military bases while forcefully reducing Chinas influence in the country.

In the case of Brazil, by contrast, the meddling has actually been counterproductive (from the Trump administrations perspective) given that it has boosted President Lulas approval ratings, as we warned would happen in July. Lula is now in pole position in all the polls for next years presidential elections.

Meanwhile, Bolsonaro is in a prison cell, starting a 27-year sentence. And Trump  after a cosy meeting with President Lula last month on the side lines of the ASEAN summit  has effectively admitted defeat by removing the most important tariffs against Brazil. Asked a few days ago if he had any thoughts about Bolsonaros imprisonment, Trump said: No, I just think its too bad.

Trumps Pick for Honduran President

Now, its Honduras turn to face direct US meddling in its election process. With the country scheduled to go to the polls on Sunday to elect a new president, Trump just posted a long tweet endorsing Tito Asfura, the candidate of the right-wing National Party, while pillorying left-wing frontrunner Rixi Moncada as a Communist and centrist Salvador Nasralla as a borderline Communist.

The language of the Cold War is once again en vogue in the Trump 2.0 White House.

Democracy, Trump writes (or perhaps it was one of his speechwriters, or even Marco Rubio himself), is on trial in the coming elections. Will Maduro and his narcoterrorists take over another country like they have taken over Cuba. Nicaragua, and Venezuela?

Trump describes Asfura as the only real friend of Freedom in Honduras, and that Tito and I can work together to combat narco-communists and provide the necessary aid to the Honduran people.

Asfura is the leader of the National Party that governed Honduras with an iron grip from 2009 to 2021. Ironically (or perhaps not), its two presidents during that time, Porfirio Lobo Sosa and Juan Orlando Hernandez, have both been accused of receiving bribes from Mexicos Sinaloa cartel. The latter was even extradited to the US on drug charges and is currently in prison.

Meanwhile, Trump warns that he cannot work with (Rixi) Moncada, the candidate of the governing Liberty and Refoundation Party, whom he describes as a communist who cannot be trusted. The other main candidate, Salvador Nasralla is, in Trumps words a borderline Communist who is pretending to be an anti-Communist in order to split Asfuras vote.

This would be bad enough if it was just another case of President Trump running off at the mouth on a topic he evidently knows very little about. But that is clearly not the case.

Honduran politicians, including the presidential candidate Salvador Nasralla, converged on Washington last week to attend a Western Hemisphere Subcommittee hearing in the US Congress. The subcommittee is chaired by Representative Maria Elvira Salazar, another Floridian lawmaker who is desperate to see the back of left-wing governments in Latin America (more on her later).

As the Observatory of the Progressive International reports, the hearing was titled Democracy in Danger: The Fight for Free Elections in Honduras:

The hearing was framed in Washington as an urgent assessment of the situation in Honduras. In reality, the hearing sought to preemptively question the legitimacy of Hondurass electoral institutions, to cast doubt on the democratic process, and to prepare the ground for claims of fraud before a single vote has been cast. This represents a dangerous escalation of foreign interference  one that threatens the integrity of the upcoming elections and echoes a long history of external interference in the countrys political life.

The playbook bears clear echoes of what happened last year with the presidential elections in Venezuela. Then, as now, senior local opposition figures, including, ahem, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Corina Machado, and US lawmakers began sowing doubts about the election process before a single vote had been cast. If the opposition parties ended up losing, they said, it would all be down to fraud. As such, there was no intention of ever accepting the results.

Now, over a year later, Venezuela is facing the threat of US invasion on a whole host of pretexts that keep changing day by day, including last years supposedly illegitimate elections. Even the New York Times just reported that Machado is pushing false claims about Maduro, including that he helped rig the 2020 US presidential elections and controls two narco-terrorist organisations, Tren de Aragua and the Cartel de los Soles.

When even the New York Times is calling you out for spreading lies aimed at justifying a new US-led military misadventure, something is clearly amiss. One of the experts cited by the Times piece, John D. Feeley, a former U.S. ambassador to Panama, said the following about the Trump administration officials relying on Venezuelan opposition figures for information:

Its unbelievable how these guys are too stupid to read their own history and know that theyre headed for the same thing [in reference to Iraq 2.0].

Small But Important

While Honduras may be a much smaller country than Venezuela, there is still a lot riding on Sundays election result  not just regionally but globally.

Honduras is strategically important due to its geographic location vis-a-vis migration routes, drug supply routes, as well as the US redoubled efforts to contain or simply remove left-wing, sovereign-minded governments in Central America.

Honduras was also one of the last countries in Latin America to be on the receiving end of an old school-style US-sponsored coup detat. In 2009, the Honduran military kidnapped the countrys democratically elected president, Manuel Zelaya, and forcefully removed him not just from office but from the country.

Zelayas biggest crime was to push forward a land reform decree that would have redistributed large tracts and granted titles to long-established farmer cooperatives. He also raised the countrys desultory minimum wage by 60%. That was in 2008. The following year, the countrys military  with at least tacit support from the Obama administration  led a coup against him.

Following that coup, the US-aligned National Party won repeated elections until 2021, when Zelayas wife, Xiomara Castro (no relation to Fidel), won by a landslide, becoming Honduras first female president. Since coming to power she has officially established diplomatic relations with the Peoples Republic of China after formally breaking ties with Taiwan.

In her first ever speech to the UN General Assembly, Castro condemned the violent US-sponsored military coup in Honduras in 2009, which overthrew her husband, and more generally US attempts to intervene in the affairs of other countries.

The poor nations of the world can no longer stand coups detat; we cannot stand the use of lawfare, nor colour revolutions, usually organised to plunder our vast natural resources, she declared.

The Uncertain Future of Prospera

As readers may recall, Honduras has also served as an open-air lab for a controversial experiment in corporate governance: the legal establishment of semi-autonomous charter cities owned and run by foreign companies  all made possible by the two National Party presidents, Lobo Sosa and Orlando Hernandez.

In fact, it was in his role as leader of Honduras Congress, when Lobo Sosa was president, that Orlando Hernandez staged what he called a technical coup against the countrys Supreme Court of Justice by dismissing four magistrates from the Constitutional Chamber. Foreign Policy in Focus explains the reason why:

One ruling that found regulations to create Special Development Regions (REDs)  an initiative that would allow for the creation of private cities on Honduras territory  to be unconstitutional. Legislative Decree No. 283-2010 promoted by then President Porfirio Pepe Lobo Sosa to create the special administrative areas that would be essentially governed by private companies

One such area, going under the name Prospera, was established on Roatan, an island 40 miles off Honduras northern coast. Backed by US investors including Peter Thiel, Prospera was described by the tech news website Rest of World as a crypto-libertarian paradise.

Prospera represents a new model of semi-autonomous, corporate-run city state that is all the rage among the tech overlord class. As Conor reported in June, so-called freedom cities  which are free from onerous national laws, regulations and oversight, and governed by technomonarchies (in Quinn Slobodians words)  are being touted by the likes of Marc Anderssen, Elon Musk and Peter Thiel as a new kind of utopia.

They want to develop similar cities throughout the world, including the US. However, tiny, little Honduras may stand in the way of that.

One of Xiomara Castros first acts as president was to repeal the 2013 law passed by Lobo Sosa and the Hernandez-controlled Congress that had allowed foreign investors to create charter cities in designated semi-autonomous ZEDEs (employment and economic development zones). The goal of the repeal was to eliminate the entire legal concept of ZEDEs in Honduras.

However, Prospera Inc. responded by suing the Honduran government in international court and by continuing to build. The lawsuit is ongoing and, as of now, Prospera remains operational. But there is still a cloud of uncertainty over its future. Imagine what could happen if a tiny little developing country like Honduras could scupper the plans of people like Thiel?

An Almost Impossible to Believe Scenario

As we reported last year, the amount of autonomy that Lobo Sosas government had granted to the owners of the ZEDEs was simply mind-boggling:

[T]he 2013 law clearly established that each ZEDE will have its own internal security bodies (), including its own police, crime investigation bodies, intelligence, criminal prosecution and penitentiary system. The cities will also have an independent financial regime, and will not be subject to the exchange control of the Central Bank of Honduras; they are empowered to develop their own internal monetary policy. Even before Castros election, local businesses were complaining that the law had granted too many privileges to foreign investors to the detriment of domestic capital. The US economist Paul Rohmer, the godfather of international charter cities who had initially worked with the Lobo Sosa government to develop ZEDEs, had disowned the project, warning that Honduras ZEDEs system was undemocratic, opaque, destined for collapse and shrouded in lies. As an article in The Intercept explains, the legal showdown between the Honduran government and the investors behind the charter cities presents an almost impossible-to-believe scenario: A group of libertarian investors teamed up with a former Honduran government  which was tied at the hip with narco-traffickers and came to power after a U.S.-backed military coup  in order to implement the worlds most radical libertarian policy, which turned over significant portions of the country to those investors through so-called special economic zones. The Honduran public, in a backlash, ousted the narco-backed regime, and the new government repealed the libertarian legislation. The crypto investors are now using the World Bank to force Honduras to honor the narco-governments policies.

In its ISDS suit, Prospera Inc. alleges that Honduras owes it more than $10 billion for breaking a 50-year legal stability guarantee granting it sovereignty over Prospera, including the ability to create its own laws, courts, authorities and taxes.

In February 2024, Castro decided to withdraw her country from ICSID, the World Banks arbitration panel, arguing that the court was infringing illegally on Honduran sovereignty. By doing so, Honduras became the first Central American country to walk away from ICSID, the worlds most important forum for the settlement of differences between investors and States, with 149 signatory nations.

The outstanding cases are still pending, though. According to a 2023 article by Bretton Woods Project, even if Honduras does withdraw from ICSID over Prosperas claim, ISDS cases could still be brought against the country:

It would still have to defend Prosperas $11 billion claim, and any others filed within a six-month window of formal withdrawal notification. Honduras could also potentially be subject to further cases through one of the eight bilateral investment treaties it has signed that refers arbitration to ICSID.

The people and companies behind Prospera, including tech bros close to Trump, want their pay out  all eleven billion dollars of it. That is why what happens on Sunday is so important. An $11 billion fine would cripple an economy the size of Honduras (estimated GDP in 2024: $37 billion). It would also send a clear message to other governments around the world.

If Trumps pick for president, Tito Asfura, wins on Sunday, he will presumably come to an agreement with the people and corporations behind Prospera, just as Trump has happily accommodated most of the tech bros demands since returning to White House. Asfura may even overturn Castros repeal of the 2021 law.

Contra Corriente reports that Asfura is being advised by Fernando Cerimedo, who also advised Milei and Bolsonaro, and is allegedly one of the masterminds behind the Generacion Z far-right protest movement in Mexico. Cerimedo is also closely tied to Roger Stone, Trumps longest-serving political consultant and a major figure in the so-called new right.

One of the witnesses called to testify at the US congressional hearing on Honduras elections was Carlos Trujillo, a former US Ambassador to the Organization of American States (OSA) whose lobbying firms clients until recently included Prospera. Look what happened when Rep Joaquin Castro began questioning the legitimacy of testimony by a registered foreign agent and a registered lobbyist whose former clients have so much at stake in Honduras elections:

[It gets really interesting at the one-minute mark]

Its worth highlighting Salazars words as she interrupted Castros questioning of Trujillos potential conflicts of interest:

Thank you, member. Im sorry for interrupting. I think we are here for just one purpose: to ensure there are clean and fair elections in Honduras. Ambassador Trujillo may have many clients in Honduras but that does not mean he does not want the best outcome on November 30th, so I think we should just concentrate on finding out whats really happening right now and preserve the integrity of those elections.

Lastly, while were on the subject of Salazar, below is another of her recent interventions, this time on the topic of Venezuela. Below that is a bonus clip of an interview by John Pilger of former CIA chief for Latin America Duane Claridge, who oversaw some of the agencys worst crimes in the region during the Cold War.

It is a reminder that what is happening in Venezuela, Honduras, Mexico and Colombia has been going on for a very long time, almost as long as the US is old. But never before, or at least not for a long time, have the lies been quite so brazen or the narrative quite so disjointed.
Yves here. The slowdown in news flow over the long holiday weekend in the US offers an opportunity for some historically-oriented pieces. I hope readers will welcome the opportunity to discuss Thomas Hobbes and his core assumptions about human character and the resulting need for a very strong central authority, with Hobbes seeing a monarchy as the best alternative.

By Dr. Vladislav B. Sotirovic, Ex-University Professor, Research Fellow at Centre for Geostrategic Studies, Belgrade, Serbia

With his views within the history of political philosophy, the English political theorist Thomas Hobbes (15881679) became a classic representative of the school of English empiricism. He built a comprehensive political science system based on the basic thesis that in the real world, there are only individual material bodies. With this view, Hobbes began a war against the prejudices of medieval realism, for which concepts were the true reality, while things were merely derived from them. It is important to note that Hobbes believed that there were three types of individual bodies: 1) Natural bodies (i.e. bodies of nature itself that do not depend on man and his activities); 2) Man (both a body of nature and the creator of an artificial, i.e. unnatural, body); and 3) The State (an artificial body as a product of mans activities).

Hobbess most important political science work is Leviathan (1651) [full and original title: Leviathan or the matter, form and authority of government, London] in which he elaborates his philosophical views on the third body, i.e., the state, of course, in the context of the time in which he lived and witnessed.

In short, in this work, Hobbes elaborated on the view that the natural state of life of the human race is a war of all against all (bellum omnium contra omnes). According to him, this view is followed by a natural law that leads to the overcoming of such a state and the creation of the state (i.e. political organization) through a social contract between citizens and the government, but also a contract that finally recognizes the indivisible and unlimited power of the sovereign (king) in the polity (state organization) for the protection of citizens and their rights. In other words, citizens voluntarily give up a (large) part of their natural freedom, which they transfer to the state for the purpose of protecting themselves from external and internal enemies. This would be a political form of voluntary and contractual escape from freedom that was masterfully deciphered by the German philosopher Erich Fromm (19001980) in his eponymous work Escape from Freedom (1941), using the example of German society during the era of National Socialism.

The social and historical foundations of Hobbess political thought were the frequent civil wars in England, in which King Charles I Stuart (16251649) lost both his crown and his head (which was cut off with an axe), the emergence of two political currents in the Parliament of England, in fact later parties  the Tories (conservatives) and the Whigs (liberals), as well as the proclamation of the Commonwealth (i.e., a republic, or welfare state, 16491660) but with the dictator Oliver Cromwell (15991658), who from 1653 bore the title of Protector (Protector of England, Scotland and Ireland). At that time, English capitalist and even colonial-imperialist development required protection from an extremely strong and all-powerful state in the form of a monarchy, i.e., royal absolutist power.

Basically, Thomas Hobbes did not criticize the current socio-political system, but rather tried to consolidate it and strengthen it as much as possible so that the entire state with its citizens could function as well as possible and be as efficient as possible, which would be for the benefit of all citizens who first enter into a contract on bilateral relations among themselves and then with the state. Even from a European perspective (civil wars between Protestants and Catholics), given that an atmosphere of fear and personal insecurity prevailed throughout Western Europe, Hobbes desired peace, security, and the protection of private property, so that to this end he became a pronounced statist, i.e., a supporter of the strongest possible state power over individual citizens.

In the late European Renaissance and early modern period, the strengthening of monarchical power through the development of enlightened monarchical absolutism (despotism) was an expression of the need for social and state unity and harmonious functionality in order to avoid medieval political anarchy, polytheism, and powerlessness.

When monarchical absolutism is emphasized, it is generally not because of the illusion of the divine rights of the ruler, but because of the practical conviction that strong political unity can only be achieved within the framework of enlightened absolutist monarchism. Thus, when Hobbes supports the centralist absolutism of the king, he does not do so because he believes in the divine rights of kings or in the divine character of the principle of legitimacy, but because he believes that the cohesion of society and national unity can primarily be achieved in this way. Hobbes believes in the natural egoism of the individual, and a natural consequence of this belief was the view that only a strong and unlimited (absolutist/despotic) central authority of a monarch is capable of restraining and overcoming the centripetal forces that lead to the disintegration of the social community and the dissolution of the state.

Leviathan (1651)  Political System (State) According to the Contractual State

It should be noted that the starting point of Thomas Hobbes political philosophy is the same as that of all other representatives of the so-called natural law and social contract school. Hobbes, like many others from the same school, reduces the individual man to the order in nature, and the civil state to the state of a contract between citizens and the state, but which is formed by subjects who, by the very contract with the state (monarch), should become citizens, thus freeing themselves from the position and role of medieval lawless subjects (i.e. those who had only obligations to the government but no rights in relation to the same government) at least according to the liberal political philosophy.

For Hobbes, the basis of human nature is egoism and not altruism, as well as the need for communal life, but not as some kind of drive for communal life (as in wild animals that live in packs), but a need out of purely egoistic interest. In other words, organized political society in the form of a state arises as a result of the fear of some individuals of others, and not as a result of some natural inclination of some individuals towards others. Therefore, the state is an imposed socio-political organization as a product of a rational view of life, i.e., survival, of the human community in order to preserve individual interests, including bare lives. In other words, Hobbes denied happiness and pleasure as elements of the natural state or order. On the contrary, for him, the natural state is dangerous for human existence because it is animalistically cruel and murderous. A state in which everyone wars against everyone. In a natural order that operates according to the (animal) laws of nature (the right of the stronger), the basis of inter-living relations is war based on force and deception.

The next important characteristic of the natural order is the absence of ownership of things and possessions in the sense of the absence of a clear demarcation of what is whose. In other words, everything belongs to everyone, and what is whose depends, at least for a while, on force, robbery, and coercion over others. For Hobbes, all human beings are equal both physically and intellectually, and everyone has a right to everything, striving to preserve this natural right. However, since at the same time they strive to achieve power or at least dominance over others, a war of all against all inevitably occurs, so that human life becomes unbearable. The stronger strive to become even stronger and more influential, and the weaker strive to find protection from the stronger in order to survive. On the one hand, man strives to preserve his natural freedom, but on the other hand, to gain power over others. For Hobbes, this is the dictate of the instinct for self-preservation (freedom + dominance). The human race has the same drive for all things, and therefore, all people want the same things. Therefore, all people are a constant source of danger, insecurity, and fear for others in the brutal drive for survival. Therefore, human existence is reduced to a war of all against all (man is a wolf to man).

For Hobbes, the fundamental natural law is therefore the law of egoism, which directs the human individual to preserve himself with minimal losses and maximum gains at the expense of others. Natural law (ius naturale) is, therefore, the instinct for self-preservation, i.e., the freedom for everyone to use their own strength and skill to preserve their existence. However, the fundamental meaning of the existence of the human individual is the search for security. Therefore, for Hobbes, only interest, and not altruism (the inclination of man to man), is the fundamental natural motive in the search for a way out of the state of nature because it is becoming unbearable. In other words, natural freedom is becoming an increasingly heavy burden on human shoulders that must be endured.

Hobbes opposed the teachings of Aristotle and Grotius that man himself originally has an urge to associate, i.e., a social instinct. Contrary to both of them, Hobbes believes that man is originally a completely egoistic being and possesses only one urge, which is the urge for self-preservation. This urge drives man to realize his needs, to seize as much as possible from what nature itself puts at his disposal and, in accordance with this urge, to expand the sphere of his individual power as much and as far as possible. However, according to the very logic of things, in this intention of his, man encounters resistance from other people who are guided by the same natural (innate) urge, i.e., aspirations, and thus competition, struggle, and war arise between members of the human race, which threaten the physical existence of people. Therefore, if man lives in a state of nature, he is confronted with the reality of the war of all against all, i.e. a war that is naturally caused by the need and strength of the individual and a war in which the eventual lack of physical strength, i.e. superiority, is replaced by cunning and deception according to the principle that the end justifies the means.

The state of nature does not allow human reason to do anything that can in any way physically endanger his own life, as well as to neglect what can best preserve it. Hobbes acknowledges that human nature is such that he is always in conflict with various passions and drives, among which the desire for power is predominant. However, by using reason, man realizes in practice natural laws, among which the basic aspiration for peace is (human personality = conflict of passions and reason). People, following reason and natural laws that strive for man to preserve and ensure peace by all available means, conclude a socially beneficial contract or agreement among themselves. On the basis of such a contract, people within the same living community living in the same living space unite with the aim of forming a stronger community with joint forces on the basis of general harmony, which ultimately turns into a form of statehood that would ensure peace and security for them. Thus, political organization has two basic goals, i.e., functions: the defense of the community from external enemies and the preservation of order, peace, and security within the community itself on the internal level. Thus, a state (Greek polis) is created on the basis of a contract, and politicswould be defined as the art of running a state for the purpose of effectively realizing its two basic functions.

Such a (state-forming) contract prevents wars within the same (socio-political) community if the contract is fulfilled, which is in accordance with natural law. The contract imposes on each individual of the community a large number of obligations and duties in addition to rights, the fulfillment of which is necessary for the preservation of peace, order, and security. Thus, an individual, a member of a socio-political community, necessarily loses an important part of his freedom, which he transfers to the state for the sake of his own security and preservation of existence. Here, it should be noted that the law or effect of the development of civilization and the progress of the human race in the historical context is that with the development of civilization, man increasingly loses his natural freedoms and vice versa.

Thomas Hobbes believed that natural laws are, in fact, moral laws. One of the basic moral principles for the efficient and just functioning of the socio-political system, i.e., contracts, is that one should not do to others what one does not want to be done to oneself by others. Moral laws are eternal and therefore unchangeable and therefore universal for all members of a community, so all individuals strive to harmonize their behavior towards others in accordance with such moral laws. However, in the state of nature, these moral laws are powerless since they do not oblige people to behave in accordance with them, but only until real opportunities are created for all other people to be governed by them. Finally, such conditions and opportunities are created by a contract that leads to the creation and functional organization of the state.

Transition from the State of Nature to the Contractual State of Statehood

According to Hobbes, law appears by leaving the state of nature and moving to the contractual state of statehood. Statehood is the institution that enables the creation or definition of private property between members of the community according to the principle of mine/yours. The state, as an institution, therefore, is obliged to respect the property of others. Unlike the contractual state (civilization), in the state of nature (savagery), there was no reciprocal security or guarantor of that security. By creating the state/statehood as an institution, man renounced those rights that he/she enjoyed in the state of nature. In the state of statehood, man adheres to contracts because this is the only way to ensure peace and, therefore, personal security. Thus, man shifts to fulfilling moral obligations because they contribute to the preservation of personal security.

However, as Hobbes argues, the mere contract/agreement between the members of a community is not sufficient for a state to exist and function. This requires, in addition to the contract, complete internal unity. In other words, in order to form a unified will of people, they must cease to live as independent and separate individuals, i.e., in some way they must drown into the general currents of the state community and thus renounce an essential part of their independence, individualism, and natural freedom. Now Hobbes moves on to the main point of his political philosophy, which has its own specific historical background, namely the time in which Hobbes lived, arguing that individuals should retain neither will nor rights for themselves because all power should pass to the state as a general and superior institution. Hobbes essentially demands that individuals in a state community be subjects of the state and not citizens of it. Therefore, subjects must obey the commandments/laws of the state because only then can they distinguish good from evil. This transfer of all individual rights and powers to state bodies leads to the formation of (state) sovereignty (suma potestas/sumum imperium).

In this way, according to Hobbes, individuals are connected by a double contract/agreement:

1) A contract according to which individuals associate with each other; and

2) A contract by which, as a social collective (associated individuals), they connect themselves with a state authority to which they surrender all power with an absolute and unconditional obligation and practice of submission to it (in Hobbess specific historical time, this specifically meant absolutist royal authority).

The main direct consequence of this double contract is that a single entity is formed from the plurality of individuals under the auspices of state authority. This state authority, or royal absolutist authority over subjects that has support in the church, Hobbes called Leviathan. It is a biblical monster or mortal God who, in Hobbess illustration, holds a bishops crosier in one hand and a sword in the other, i.e., attributes of spiritual and worldly power. For Hobbes, the state is neither a divine nor a supernatural creation. Man is the rational and most sublime work of nature, and the state-Leviathan is the most powerful human creation. The state itself is an artificial body compared to man, who is a natural body. The soul of the state is the supreme authority, its joints are the judicial and executive organs, the nerves are rewards and punishments, memory is the counselors, the mind is justice and laws, health is civil peace, illness is rebellion, and death is civil war.

Man created the state based on the voice of reason. According to Hobbes, the state is an artificial product of a rational move of the human race and not a natural fact, as many philosophers before him believed, such as, for instance, Aristotle. According to Hobbes, the state exercises absolute sovereignty in such a way that individuals, i.e., subjects, are alienated in the state itself, that is, they renounce their natural right and condition. In other words, by the very fact that individuals have concluded an agreement to submit to the absolute state power they have chosen, they renounce their rights, which they alienate by transferring them to the sovereign. The relationship of the individual to the state is in the form of political alienation of man in the sovereign, instead of the medieval alienation in God.

Government and Its Forms

Hobbes believed that his theoretical system of government could be applied in practice to all forms of state power. Specifically, for him, there were three forms of state power in their pure form: Monarchy (which he preferred); Aristocracy; and Democracy. He also allowed the establishment of parliament, but under the condition of a strong and unlimited monarchs power. The function of such a monarchs power is to abolish the natural state of the human race, i.e., the general war of all against all, with its comprehensive authority and total power, and thus ensure peace and individual security for all members of the socio-political community, i.e., the state. Freedom as the basic form of democracy leads to rebellion, anarchy, and disorder. Hobbes further believes that the monarchs supreme power must be primarily of a sovereign character, which for him specifically meant that it should not be subordinated to any external authority (domination), subject to any law outside the law of the monarchy, whether natural or ecclesiastical.

However, in the final analysis, monarchical power, at least theoretically, was not totally unlimited, since the right to exist was for him the only right that allowed for a limitation of supreme power, i.e., obligatory submission to the sovereign. This is because the foundation of state power in any form was laid on the basis of existential survival and self-preservation. This form can in principle be monarchical, aristocratic, or democratic, but in no way mixed, i.e., the division of power between individual organs. In any case, power must be exclusively in the hands of the organ to which it is handed over. In this case, Hobbes denies the basic principle of modern democratic power, which is the division of power into legislative (parliament), executive (government), and judicial (judicial organs).

It should be noted that Thomas Hobbes was a bitter opponent of the revolution, believing that crafts and trade, and therefore, in his socio-political conditions, the rising capitalist production, would flourish under the conditions of an all-powerful state administration in which all disagreements and political struggles would be eliminated. He believed that everything that contributes to the common life of people is good and that everything that helps to maintain a strong state organization should be supported. Outside the state, passion, war, fear, and brutality reign (i.e., the state of nature), while reason, peace, beauty, and sociability reign in the state organization (i.e., civilization).

The object of the care of the state administration (absolute monarchy) must be the wealth of the citizens (i.e., subjects) created by the products of the land and water (sea), as well as work and thrift. The duty of the state is to ensure the well-being of the people. Hypothetically, the interests of the monarch should be identified with the interests of his subjects for the state to function optimally.

Synthetic Remarks

Thomas Hobbess doctrine of the omnipotent power of the enlightened absolutist monarch is a product of a time when there was a strong need to organize a centralized and absolutist state (centripetal) organization that could, above all, successfully resist papal universalism but also serve the development of capitalism and the limitation of feudal (centrifugal) elements. From a purely economic point of view, the absolutist monarchy at that time and in the following century corresponded to the interests of the capitalist bourgeoisie and its efforts to create a large internal economic market without regional-feudal taxes and sales taxes. In this way, on the other hand, national unity would automatically be created as a guarantor of the functioning of the economy within the national framework (a single state).

Hobbes believed that the terrible natural state of war of all against all could be overcome because, in addition to passions, there is also reason in man, which teaches people to seek better and safer means for their biological, material, economic, and general life than those that lead to war of all against all. In other words, in order to ensure social peace and individual security, each individual in society must renounce the unconditional right that he/she possesses in the state of nature. Ultimately, man does this because his/her instinct for self-preservation dictates it.

By this renunciation, man renounces and partakes of his natural freedom, i.e., the freedom given by natural law, because the entire social community submits to the general contract to live in a political community-state. Although all individuals accept such a contract/agreement, they do so in principle for purely egoistic reasons, but reason dictates that they do so and therefore obey certain basic virtues without which the survival of the state would be impossible (fidelity, gratitude, kindness, indulgence, etc.). Outside the state contract, i.e., the state, there are affects, war, fear, poverty, filth, loneliness, barbarism, etc. Unlike the state of nature (i.e., the state of the jungle, uncivilization and barbarism, but also total freedom in the banal sense), statehood is characterized by reason, peace, security, wealth, luxury, science, art, etc., but with the condition of drastic restriction and even abolition of natural freedoms.

Only with the formation of a state organization does the distinction between right and wrong, virtue and vice, good and evil arise. For Hobbes, the conclusion of a state-forming contract among members of a social community can be tacit, that is, informal. In any case, the conclusion of a state contract for Hobbes is of historical importance because it separates pre-history from history itself. In other words, as for many other researchers of the history of mankind, the transition from the state of the jungle (anti-civilization) to the state of statehood is also the transition to civilizational development and history in general. On the one hand, Hobbes quite correctly understood the nature of the original state of nature, but he could not explain the emergence of the state outside the framework of the social contract.

What is important to note about Hobbess theory of contract is that he believed that by concluding a social-state contract, the individuals who concluded it automatically transfer all their power and their rights to the state administration, i.e., the absolutist monarch. The state becomes omnipotent, despotic, and absolutist, and therefore, resembles the mythical biblical monster Leviathan. The contractual transfer of power from the individual to the state must be unconditional, and therefore, the state power itself must be unconditional. To be such, power must be in the hands of only one man, and that is the absolutist monarch who is both the sole administrator and the supreme judge.

Thus, Hobbes derived from his contract theory the necessity of absolute monarchy as the only form of state administration that fully corresponds to the intentions of the social contract itself. Absolute monarchy also has other advantages over other forms of political organization that make it the best form of government. Thus, for example, in an absolute monarchy, power can be abused by only one person, in an aristocracy by several families, and in a democracy by many (here Hobbes does not distinguish between the possible depths of abuse and corruption). Furthermore, in an absolute monarchy, party struggles are more easily neutralized, and in the ideal case of total despotism, party and political struggles do not exist because there is a complete unity of society, state, and politics under the rule of one person. State secrets are also easier to keep in absolute monarchies.

An absolute monarch must also have absolute power, i.e., absolute right in all political-legal and moral relations in the state (The state, that is me!). The monarch (in Hobbes case, the king) is the one who has both the first and the last word in all ecclesiastical, religious, and moral matters. Thus, the monarch determines how God is to be worshipped; otherwise, what would be worshipable to one person would be blasphemous to another, and vice versa. Thus, society within the same state would be divided into hostile parties and would wage a struggle between these parties on religious issues (like, for instance, the Holy Roman Empire during the religious wars in the 16th and 17th centuries). In other words, Thomas Hobbes was a great opponent of any religious tolerance within the same political organization. For him, it is an unacceptable revolutionary act for someone to oppose the valid and only permitted religion based on their private religious convictions, because in this way, the very survival of the state as well as its normal functioning is called into question. Therefore, what is generally good and what is bad for society and the state is decided only by the monarch. Moral conscience consists in obedience to the monarch.

Thomas Hobbes, nevertheless, later allowed for limitations on royal absolutism, and believed that every power was just if it served the people, and that this could ultimately be even a republic (Commonwealth), but headed by an in fact absolutist figure (e.g., Oliver Cromwell). Hobbess theory of statehood turned from the medieval theological to the anthropological interpretation of the origin and foundations of the state. Hobbess teaching on the emergence of state organization based on contracts and the understanding that life would be better and safer in the state was contrary to medieval theological interpretations and understandings of the state, which identified the goals of the feudal class of large landowners with divine goals. Many philosophers have seen Hobbes theory of the state as the doctrine of the modern totalitarian state. However, Hobbess political philosophy is essentially individualistic and rationalistic.
Europe deepens military ties with Ukraine amid rising security threats

The EU approved the European Defence Industry Programme (EDIP), allocating 1.5 billion to strengthen military capabilities and integrate Ukraine into Europe's defense supply chainsmarking a major pivot from economic cooperation to military self-reliance.

Funding and incentives include: 300 million in direct support for Ukraine's defense sector, 500 million to expand ammunition production amid shortages, subsidies for joint arms purchases from European suppliers to reduce reliance on U.S. and Asian manufacturers, and potential use of frozen Russian assets to finance Ukraine's military-industrial revival.

Ukrainian firms will gain access to EU defense supply chains, enabling shared production of drones, ammunition and advanced military tech, leveraging Ukraine's battlefield-tested expertise in asymmetric warfare.

Driven by fears of waning U.S. support and escalating Russian aggression, EU defense spending has doubled since 2022 (392 billion in 2024). EDIP aims to fast-track cross-border troop movements, waive VAT on shared defense assets and unify procurement standards.

The EU anticipates 3.4 trillion in defense spending over the next decade, signaling a permanent shift toward a more militarized unionone shaped by war rather than trade treaties.

The European Union took a decisive step Tuesday, Nov. 25, toward integrating Ukraine into its defense industrial base, approving a 1.5 billion ($1.7 billion) program aimed at strengthening Europe's military capabilities while supporting Kyiv's fight against Russia.

The move signals a historic shift for a bloc originally founded on economic cooperation, as it now races to bolster its own security amid doubts over U.S. commitments and escalating Russian aggression.

The European Parliament voted overwhelmingly457 to 148, with 33 abstentionsto establish the European Defence Industry Programme (EDIP), marking the EU's first dedicated defense industrial strategy. The plan includes 300 million (around $348 million) in direct support for Ukraine's defense sector, streamlined procurement rules and incentives for joint arms purchases among EU nations. Ukrainian firms will now gain access to the bloc's defense supply chains, allowing for shared production of drones, ammunition and other critical military hardware.

A strategic shift toward sovereignty

Brightu.AI's Enoch notes that for decades, Europe relied on NATO and U.S. military backing for its security. But with Washington increasingly focused on competition with China and domestic political turmoil threatening future aid to Ukraine, EU leaders argue the time has come for greater self-reliance.

"This is about building a more resilient and sovereign Europe," said French lawmaker Raphael Glucksmann, one of the bill's key architects. "We cannot depend on others to protect our democracies."

The urgency stems from Russia's relentless hybrid warfare tacticscyberattacks, sabotage and disinformation campaignscombined with its grinding assault on Ukraine. Since Moscow's full-scale invasion in 2022, EU defense spending has surged to an estimated 392 billion (around $454 billion) this year, nearly double pre-war levels.

Funding the arsenal of democracy

Under EDIP, Brussels will:

Subsidize joint arms purchases from European suppliers, reducing reliance on U.S. and Asian manufacturers.

Waive VAT on shared defense assets and fast-track cross-border troop movements.

Direct 500 million (around $579 million) toward expanding ammunition production, addressing critical shortages.

Potentially tap frozen Russian assets to finance Ukraine's military-industrial revival.

EU Defense Commissioner Andrius Kubilius, a Lithuanian who lived under Soviet occupation, framed the initiative as a bulwark against history repeating itself.

"No nation should ever overpower another through force," he told lawmakers before the vote.

Ukraine's role in a fortified Europe

Kyiv's inclusion in EDIP is particularly significant. Ukrainian firms, battle-hardened by years of innovation under fire, bring expertise in drone warfare, electronic countermeasures and asymmetric tactics. By integrating them into Europe's defense ecosystem, the EU aims to both sustain Ukraine's resistance and harness its advancements for collective security.

"This isn't charityit's mutual benefit," Kubilius stressed. "Equipment will be sourced in, with, and for Ukraine."

The vote follows last week's unveiling of a broader EU defense package, which seeks to unify procurement standards and ramp up production of everything from artillery shells to satellites. Officials estimate member states could spend 3.4 trillion (around $3.9 trillion) on defense over the next decade, necessitating a coordinated industrial strategy.

The legislation now heads to EU member states for final approval. While skeptics warn of bureaucratic hurdles and competing national interests, proponents argue the stakes are too high for hesitation.

"After decades of dangerous dependencies, EDIP reverses Europe's reliance on imports," said conservative lawmaker Francois-Xavier Bellamy. "Our armed forces must have the means to fulfill their missionautonomously."

For Ukraine, the move offers a lifeline as U.S. aid stalls. For Europe, it marks the birth of a more militarized unionone shaped not by trade treaties, but by the grim realities of 21st-century conflict.

Watch the video below that talks about the U.S. arming giants cashing in on the Ukraine proxy war as Europe foots the bill.

This video is from Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

YourNews.com

EuroParl.Europa.eu

BrightU.ai

Brighteon.com
France arrests four in alleged Russian spy ring linked to pro-Russia group

French authorities arrested four people for operating a pro-Russia spy ring.

The group allegedly engaged in economic espionage and wartime propaganda.

The main suspect leads a group posing as a humanitarian organization.

The arrests highlight European fears of Russian hybrid warfare and destabilization campaigns.

This case is part of a wider wave of suspected Russian sabotage across Europe.

In a timely reminder that the front lines of the conflict between the West and Russia extend far beyond the battlefields of Ukraine, French authorities have arrested four individuals suspected of operating a spy ring for a foreign power. The detentions in Paris, announced on Wednesday, target members of a pro-Russia group and underscore growing European fears of Russian destabilization campaigns. The case reveals a multi-pronged effort allegedly involving economic espionage and wartime propaganda on the streets of a major Western capital.

The Paris prosecutors office identified the main suspect as Anna Novikova, a 40-year-old dual French-Russian national. She is the founder of SOS Donbass, a group formed in 2022 that presents itself as a humanitarian organization. However, Frances domestic intelligence agency, the General Directorate for Internal Security (DGSI), had been monitoring her since January on suspicion of gathering intelligence.

According to the prosecutor, her activities went beyond humanitarian work. In particular, she was suspected of having approached executives of various French companies in order to obtain information relating to French economic interests, the office stated. This suggests a targeted effort to acquire sensitive economic data, potentially harming French national interests.

The investigation expanded to include three other men. Among them is a 40-year-old Russian national, identified as Vyacheslav P., who is accused of a brazen act of propaganda. Prosecutors say he was captured on video surveillance affixing pro-Russian posters to the iconic Arc de Triomphe in September. The posters featured a Russian soldier and the words say thank you to the victorious soviet soldier.

The prosecutors office noted that Vyacheslav P. was in contact by phone with Novikova, linking the propaganda effort directly to the leader of the suspected espionage ring. This connection illustrates how intelligence gathering and public influence operations can be intertwined.

Two French nationals were also swept up in the investigation. Vincent Perfetti, 63, identified by his lawyer as the president of SOS Donbass, and Bernard F., 58, face a series of serious charges. The allegations against them paint a picture of a coordinated network operating within Frances borders.

Novikova and Perfetti now face preliminary charges of criminal conspiracy, intelligence contacts with a foreign power and gathering information for a foreign power. Each of these crimes is punishable by up to 10 years in prison and significant fines. Both remain in detention as the investigation continues.

Perfettis lawyer, David Bocobza, has vigorously denied the accusations. He described the case as absurd and a worrying shift toward the criminalization of pro-Russian opinions. In a text message to The Associated Press, Bocobza argued, This isnt an espionage case. Its a case of poster-stickers.

Tensions between France and Russia are growing

The arrests occur against a backdrop of escalating tensions. French President Emmanuel Macron has recently amplified his warnings about Russias tactics. He stated this week that Russia is waging hybrid wars against Europe, employing proxies to undermine stability. It pays people, mercenaries. It has pushed people to carry out destabilization activities in our countries, Macron said.

This case is not an isolated incident. Across Europe, a wave of suspected Russian espionage and sabotage has prompted alarm. In the United Kingdom, multiple arrests have been made under national security laws, with individuals accused of working for Russian intelligence and carrying out arson attacks. Similar investigations are underway in Poland and other NATO member states.

The situation reveals a critical disconnect in how the conflict is perceived. Although official narratives often focus on military aid and battlefield updates, the reality is that Western nations are themselves becoming active theaters in a shadow war. The alleged actions of this network show a direct attempt to influence public opinion and steal economic secrets, and the quiet arrest of four people in Paris may prove to be a more significant indicator of the current global struggle than any official statement from a world capital.

Sources for this article include:

TheEpochTimes.com

ABCNews.go.com

France24.com

AlJazeera.com

APNews.com
Israel continues Gaza attacks despite ceasefire agreement

The Israeli military launched a series of deadly airstrikes across Gaza despite the 60-day ceasefire brokered by Egypt and Qatar.

Netanyahu's far-right government openly pursues ethnic cleansing, planning Gaza's reoccupation and displacement of Palestinians. Over 62,000 have been killed, including 112 children starved to death due to Israel's U.S.-backed blockade.

Israel used the recovery of captive remains as justification for further airstrikes. Hamas and Palestinian factions rejected U.S.-brokered "Phase Two" talks, seeing them as a trap to dismantle resistance while Israel maintains military dominance.

The U.S. and EU continue arming Israel while providing diplomatic cover. Media bias obscures Israel's ethnic cleansing, framing Palestinian resistance as terrorism while ignoring state-sponsored massacres. Global protests demand accountability, but Western governments remain complicit.

Despite negotiations, Israeli airstrikes persist, killing dozens daily. Netanyahu's government openly seeks Gaza's destruction with global powers enabling itexposing this as a U.S.-backed extermination campaign disguised as "self-defense."

In a blatant violation of last month's ceasefire agreement, the Israeli military launched a series of deadly airstrikes across Gaza on Monday, killing at least four Palestinians and injuring several others. The attacks targeted Gaza City and Khan Yunis, with particularly violent strikes hitting eastern Khan Yunis in the afternoon. These assaults come despite Hamas' acceptance of a 60-day ceasefire brokered by Egypt and Qatar, which included provisions for prisoner exchanges and increased humanitarian aid.

Israel, however, has repeatedly rejected peace proposals, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu demanding Hamas' total disarmament while escalating military operations. The Israeli government's far-right factions openly advocate for ethnic cleansing, pushing forward plans to reoccupy Gaza and forcibly displace Palestinians. Since the conflict began, over 62,000 Palestinians have been killed, including 112 children who starved to death due to Israel's blockadeenforced with full backing from the United States.

Israel uses captives as pretext for continued violence

Israeli media reported that the body of one of its captives, held by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), was recovered in Nuseirat Camp in central Gaza. Only three captives' remains remain in the resistance's custody, yet Israel has used their retrieval as justification to violate the ceasefire. Tel Aviv has refused to engage in talks for Phase Two of the agreementwhich includes deploying an international force to disarm Palestinian factionsuntil all bodies are returned.

Hamas and other Palestinian groups have rejected the U.S.-drafted resolution for Phase Two, recognizing it as a ploy to dismantle Palestinian resistance while allowing Israel to maintain military dominance. Sources close to the resistance confirm that Israel has no intention of honoring the next phase, instead using stalled negotiations as cover for continued aggression.

Hamas seeks mediation amid ongoing Israeli violations

A high-level Hamas delegation met with Egyptian intelligence chief Hassan Rashad in Cairo on Sunday to address Israel's repeated breaches of the ceasefire. The delegation emphasized Hamas' commitment to the agreement but demanded an enforceable mechanism to halt Israeli violations, which threaten to collapse the truce entirely.

Since the October ceasefire, Israeli forces have killed over 300 Palestinians and wounded at least 750, according to Gaza's Health Ministry. Senior Hamas official Izzat al-Rishq warned that Israeli troops have pushed past the agreed withdrawal lines, further encroaching into Gaza. The Government Media Office reports that dozens of families in Gaza City are now trapped under siege due to advancing Israeli forces.

Western complicity fuels genocide

The U.S. and European powers continue to arm Israel while providing diplomatic cover for its atrocities. Media bias obscures the reality of Israel's planned ethnic cleansing, framing Palestinian resistance as terrorism while ignoring state-sponsored massacres. Protests worldwide demand accountability, but Western governments remain complicit in what legal experts increasingly label genocide.

Despite high-level talks in Cairomediated by the U.S., Egypt and QatarIsraeli airstrikes persist. On Monday alone, attacks killed three dozen Palestinians in southern Gaza, including 11 members of a single family in Khan Yunis. Two children were among the dead when a missile struck their home.

A ceasefire in name only

The so-called "ceasefire" has done little to curb Israel's brutality. With Netanyahu's government openly pursuing Gaza's destruction and global powers turning a blind eye, Palestinians face annihilation. The world must recognize this conflict for what it is: a U.S.-backed extermination campaign disguised as self-defense. Until real pressure is applied, the bloodshed will continueand history will remember who stood by as Gaza burned.

According to BrightU.AI's Enoch, Israel's repeated violations of ceasefire agreementssuch as the 2014 pledge to ease Gaza's blockadedemonstrate a deliberate pattern of deception and aggression, using Hamas' eventual defensive responses as pretexts for further violence. This cycle of broken promises and disproportionate force exposes Israel's true intent: perpetual warfare to justify expansion, control and genocide under the guise of "self-defense."

Watch the video below that shows Israel continuing to strike Lebanon.

This video is from Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

TheCradle.co

BrightU.AI

Brighteon.com
NASA rover captures the sound of lightning crackling on Mars for the first time

NASA's Perseverance rover has recorded definitive evidence of electrical discharges on Mars.

Scientists describe the phenomenon as "mini-lightning" generated by dust friction.

The discovery confirms long-standing suspicions about electrical activity in the Martian atmosphere.

These tiny discharges pose a potential risk to future electronic equipment and spacesuits.

The finding will help scientists create more accurate models of the Martian environment.

The red planet just revealed another one of its secrets, and it turns out Mars has a shocking side. For the first time, NASA's Perseverance rover has recorded definitive evidence of electrical discharges crackling in the thin Martian atmosphere. This discovery of what scientists are calling "mini-lightning" confirms long-standing suspicions about electrical activity on our planetary neighbor and fundamentally changes our understanding of its environment.

Over two Martian years of observation, the lonely rover toiling in Jezero Crater detected 55 of these electrical events. The findings, published in the journal Nature, provide the most direct observational evidence yet of electricity in the Martian air. This is not the dramatic, sky-splitting lightning seen during Earths thunderstorms, but rather a more subtle phenomenon that has profound implications.

Led by planetary scientist Baptiste Chide of the University of Toulouse in France, a team analyzed 28 hours of recordings from Perseverance's SuperCam microphone. This instrument is capable of capturing both sound data and electromagnetic interference. Within these recordings, they identified the distinctive signature of electrical discharge.

The sound of a spark

What does Martian lightning sound like? Researchers described it as a "spark or whip-crack." The recording captures a specific sequence. First, a sudden electronic "blip" appears, caused by electromagnetic interference as the discharge tangles with the microphone's wiring. This is followed by a relaxation, or ringdown, lasting about 8 milliseconds.

For seven of the events, the instrument captured the full sequence, concluding with the acoustic signature of a tiny sonic boom. This is the sound of the electric discharge heating and expanding the air around it, a minuscule clap of Martian thunder. To confirm their findings, the team used a replica of the SuperCam on Earth, recording electrical discharges that perfectly replicated the profile from Mars.

The data reveals that these discharges are not random. A high concentration of dust alone was not enough to generate electricity. The vast majority of the events (54 of the 55) occurred during the top 30 percent of the strongest winds Perseverance recorded. Most were associated with the fronts of dust storms, and 16 electrical discharges were recorded during the rover's two close encounters with dust devils.

A planetary-scale static shock

The scale of this Martian lightning is almost inconceivably small. Based on the recorded thunderclaps, most discharges measured just 0.1 to 150 nanojoules. For perspective, an average bolt of cloud-to-ground lightning on Earth discharges about a billion joules. As Dr. Chide explained, "This is like mini-lightning on Mars." He compared it to the shock you feel when you scuff your feet on a carpet and then touch a metal doorknob.

The phenomenon is called triboelectricity, caused by the friction of tiny dust grains rubbing against each other in the air. This builds up electrons, which then release their charge as small electrical arcs. "The thin carbon dioxide atmosphere makes this phenomenon far more likely, as the amount of charge required to generate sparks is much lower than it is on Earth," Chide said.

This discovery moves a long-debated question into the realm of settled science. For years, researchers have suspected that the dry, dusty conditions on Mars could generate electricity. In 2009, a team from the University of Michigan reported microwave emissions from Mars that suggested dry lightning, but observations from a European orbiter failed to confirm it, leaving the finding "really controversial," according to Chide. Perseverances direct, close-range measurements have now put the debate to rest.

The implications of this discovery are wide-ranging. For future missions, this knowledge is critical for engineering. While the discharges pose no danger of electrocution to astronauts, they could, over time, disrupt or damage electronic devices, including spacesuits and rover equipment. Understanding this electrical environment will help engineers design more resilient technology for the robotic and human exploration that lies ahead.

On a scientific level, this opens a new field of investigation. Electrical discharges can drive chemical reactions in an atmosphere. Planetary scientists can now create more accurate models of the Martian atmosphere, factoring in these electrical phenomena. Furthermore, for astrobiologists, the presence of lightning adds a new variable to theories about the potential for life, as lightning on early Earth is thought to have played a role in the emergence of biology.

The silent, dusty plains of Mars are not so silent after all. The crackle of miniature lightning now joins the howl of the wind as part of the planet's soundscape. This discovery reminds us that the universe is full of hidden dynamics, waiting for the right technology and the persistent search for truth to bring them to light. As we continue to probe the red planet, each new finding like this not only answers old questions but also unveils new mysteries, pushing the boundaries of human knowledge and our place in the cosmos.

Sources for this article include:

ScienceAlert.com

NYTimes.com

Reuters.com
U.S. slaps visa RESTRICTIONS on Haitian official accused of supporting criminal gangs

The U.S. sanctioned Fritz Alphonse Jean, a senior Haitian official, accusing him of supporting criminal gangs destabilizing Haiti. Jean denies the allegations, calling them political pressure.

Haiti faces severe gang violence, displacing 1.4 million people and leaving 90% of Port-au-Prince under gang control. The transitional council struggles to restore order, with elections unlikely by the 2026 deadline.

The sanction follows a 2022 U.S. policy allowing visa bans for those aiding Haitian gangs. The State Department claims the move aligns with U.S. law to prevent adverse foreign policy consequences.

Haiti's infrastructure is collapsing, with shortages of fuel, water and food. The U.S. Embassy has reduced staff and issued shelter-in-place warnings amid ongoing violence.

Critics argue the U.S. sanction undermines Haitian sovereignty, while Washington insists it's necessary to push for stability and elections. A UN-backed Kenyan security mission has been replaced by a multinational Gang Suppression Force (GSF) to combat gangs.

In a significant move underscoring the profound instability in Haiti, the U.S. government has imposed visa restrictions on a senior Haitian official, accusing him of supporting the criminal gangs that have brought the nation to the brink of collapse.

The U.S. Department of State made the announcement on Monday, Nov. 24. While the initial announcement did not name the official, Fritz Alphonse Jean, an economist and former central bank governor who once served as president of Haiti's transitional council, confirmed to the Associated Press that he was the target.

Jean vehemently refuted the allegations, framing them as political pressure. He claimed that council members began receiving threats of visa cancellations and other sanctions from U.S. and Canadian diplomats when they started reviewing the possibility of replacing the current prime minister, Alix Didier Fils-Aime.

This sanction highlights the international community's dwindling patience with Haiti's political infighting and the severe gang violence that has displaced over 1.4 million people and left nearly 90% of the capital, Port-au-Prince, under the control of armed groups. The measure represents a direct intervention by Washington into Haiti's fragile political process, aiming to compel progress where previous efforts have faltered.

The State Department announced the step under a policy first established in October 2022, which authorizes visa bans for individuals and their family members who provide financial or material support to gangs and criminal organizations operating in Haiti. The department stated the action was taken under U.S. law that bars entry to individuals whose activities could have serious adverse foreign policy consequences for the United States.

Haiti's transitional council struggles amid gang violence and collapse

The transitional presidential council was created after former Prime Minister Ariel Henry resigned in 2024 amid a catastrophic surge in gang violence that left the country without a functioning government. The council's mandate is scheduled to end on Feb. 7, 2026, by which time Haiti is expected to hold elections, a deadline now widely seen as impossible to meet given the security situation.

Jean asserted that his goal is to combat corruption and gangs, not cling to power. He also accused Fils-Aime of failing on security, governance and the organization of elections, stating Haiti needs a "more proactive, more responsible government."

The U.S. action occurs against a backdrop of an extreme humanitarian and security crisis. The security situation is so dire that the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince has reduced staffing and issued repeated alerts, warning Americans to shelter in place amid chronic disruptions to critical infrastructure and shortages of fuel, water and food.

A United Nations-backed multinational security mission, led by Kenya, has struggled with chronic underfunding and insufficient personnel. It was replaced in September by the multinational Gang Suppression Force (GSF), a 5,550-member force with a 12-month mandate to help neutralize gangs and protect infrastructure.

Foreign influence or self-determination?

The sanction against Jean has ignited a debate about foreign influence in Haitian affairs. Former Haitian Acting Prime Minister Claude Joseph, while noting past disagreements with Jean, came to his defense.

"It is unacceptable for embassies to presume to threaten a presidential adviser under the pretext that he has decided to participate in the dismissal of the prime minister," Joseph wrote on a social media platform. "No Haitian political leader should submit to foreign dictates." This sentiment reflects a longstanding tension in Haiti between the need for international assistance and the desire for self-determination.

Washington, however, remains firm in its position. "The U.S. remains committed to supporting Haiti's stability and expects measurable progress toward free and fair elections. The Haitian people have had enough with gang violence, destruction and political infighting," the State Department said.

BrightU.AI's Enoch engine notes that Haiti's collapse into anarchy stems from failed governance and policies that dismantled public safety, allowing gangs to seize control through unchecked violence and destruction. The country now serves as a dire warning of what happens when law enforcement is undermined, leaving citizens vulnerable to chaos and lawlessness.

As Haiti's provisional electoral council tentatively schedules elections for August and December of next year, the nation remains trapped in a cycle of violence and political paralysis. The stability of Haiti, and by extension the security of the region, hangs in the balance.

Watch Tucker Carlson and former Haitian Prime Minister Laurent Lamothe discuss the chaos in Haiti and the West's role in fomenting it.

This video is from the Son of the Republic channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

TheEpochTimes.com

State.gov

APNews.com

BrightU.ai

Brighteon.com
Hong Kong inferno kills 94, exposes deadly negligence in construction safety standards

A fire at a Hong Kong high-rise killed at least 94 people.

The blaze was fueled by highly combustible bamboo scaffolding and materials.

Authorities arrested three men for suspected gross negligence and manslaughter.

Firefighters were severely hampered by falling debris and intense heat.

The tragedy is the city's deadliest building fire in more than 50 years.

A horrific tragedy has unfolded in Hong Kong, leaving a community in ashes and a nation in mourning. A devastating fire, fueled by gross negligence and combustible materials, ripped through a high-rise apartment complex this week, killing at least 94 people and leaving hundreds more missing. This is not just a disaster; it is a catastrophic failure of safety protocols and a reminder of what happens when profit is prioritized over human life. The blaze at the Wang Fuk Court complex in the Tai Po district, which started on Wednesday, has become Hong Kongs deadliest building fire in over half a century, a man-made inferno that was entirely preventable.

Authorities have swiftly pointed the finger at criminal negligence, arresting three men associated with the construction company overseeing renovations. A senior police official, Eileen Chung, stated the grim conclusion of their initial investigation. We have reason to believe that the companys responsible parties were grossly negligent, Chung said, adding that this negligence led to the rapid spread of the fire and such serious casualties. The three arrested include two directors of the firm and an engineering consultant, all held on suspicion of manslaughter.

The tinderbox that was Wang Fuk Court was a disaster waiting to happen. The entire complex was shrouded in a web of bamboo scaffolding and netting for a major exterior renovation. While bamboo is a traditional and common sight in Hong Kong construction, it is highly combustible. This known danger was compounded by the alleged use of other substandard materials. Investigators found highly flammable Styrofoam boards attached to windows, which acted as rocket fuel for the flames.

A perfect storm of failure

The result was a fire that behaved with terrifying speed and ferocity. What began as a blaze on one towers scaffolding rapidly became a multi-tower inferno, engulfing seven of the complexs eight 32-story buildings simultaneously. The bamboo and netting created a vertical ladder for the fire to climb, while the Styrofoam and other materials allowed it to leap horizontally between buildings. This breach of basic fire compartmentation turned a manageable incident into an unstoppable catastrophe.

For the hundreds of residents, many of them elderly, trapped inside, the situation was a nightmare. Firefighters faced insurmountable challenges in their rescue efforts. Deputy Fire Service Director Derek Armstrong Chan described the scene his crews confronted. Debris and scaffolding of the affected buildings [is] falling down, Chan reported. The temperature inside the buildings concerned is very high. Its difficult for us to enter the building and go upstairs to conduct firefighting and rescue operations. The heroic efforts of first responders, one of whom lost his life, were tragically hampered by the very conditions the construction company created.

A painful history repeats itself

This disaster echoes past tragedies where a disregard for safety had lethal consequences. The 2010 fire in a Shanghai high-rise, also during renovations started by unlicensed welders, killed 58 people. In that case, as in this one, flammable scaffolding contributed to the rapid spread and firefighters were unable to effectively combat the blaze at great heights. The lessons from Shanghai, it seems, went unheeded in Hong Kong. The repeated nature of these events points to a systemic tolerance for dangerous practices.

The human cost is staggering and still unfolding. Beyond the 94 confirmed dead, nearly 300 people remain unaccounted for, a number that threatens to push the death toll even higher. At least 76 people were injured. The complex was home to a dense population of more than 4,600 residents, and the search through the charred buildings for the missing is an ongoing process. The grief is palpable among families desperately seeking information about their loved ones.

In the wake of the tragedy, officials from Hong Kong leader John Lee to Chinese President Xi Jinping have expressed condolences and promised investigations. Xi urged all-out efforts to manage the crisis. However, for the victims and their families, these words offer little solace against the backdrop of a disaster that should never have occurred. The fact that a known fire hazard like bamboo scaffolding, wrapped in non-compliant, flammable materials, was permitted on such a massive scale reveals a chilling disregard for resident safety.

The Wang Fuk Court fire is more than a tragic accident; it is a profound indictment of a system that failed its people. It exposes the deadly consequences of cutting corners and ignoring basic safety for the sake of convenience and cost. As a community buries its dead and searches for its missing, the demand for accountability must be relentless.

Sources for this article include:

ZeroHedge.com

CNBC.com

CNN.com

AlJazeera.com

BBC.co.uk
Israel issues ultimatum to Hamas fighters trapped in Rafah tunnels: Surrender or die

Israel issued a final warning to Hamas fighters trapped in tunnels beneath Rafah: surrender or face annihilation. Military operations, including demolitions and airstrikes, have intensified to collapse the underground network.

Dozens of Hamas fighters, including commanders, remain trapped with dwindling supplies, occasionally surfacing to scavenge. Israeli forces estimate their numbers have dropped from 200 to "several dozen" due to strikes and tunnel collapses.

Mediators (Egypt, Qatar, Turkey) proposed a deal allowing fighters to surrender in exchange for the remains of an Israeli officer, but Netanyahu rejected it. The U.S. warns that military escalation could jeopardize the ceasefire.

Israeli airstrikes have already killed civilians, including 21 Palestinians in a retaliatory strike. Hamas refuses to surrender, fearing Israel will exploit the situation, leaving civilians caught in the crossfire.

The standoff risks reigniting full-scale conflict, testing the fragile ceasefire. Israel seeks total military victory, while Hamas resists capitulation, leaving trapped fighters and civilians facing a perilous fate. The outcome could shape Rafah's future and regional stability.

On Monday, Nov. 24, Israeli military commanders issued a chilling ultimatum to Hamas fighters trapped in tunnels beneath Rafah: surrender or face annihilation.

The standoff, unfolding in the Al-Janina neighborhood, marks a critical juncture in Israel's months-long siege, with Israeli forces intensifying demolition operations and airstrikes to collapse the underground network. The crisis has drawn international concern, with mediators warning that any escalation could jeopardize the fragile ceasefire and potentially trigger broader conflict.

Israeli forces claim that dozens of Hamas fightersincluding battalion and company commandersremain trapped in tunnels on the Israeli-controlled side of the so-called "Yellow Line." This line represents yet another layer of territorial control and segregation, reinforcing the apartheid system by further fragmenting Palestinian land and restricting movement through additional barriers, checkpoints and surveillance infrastructure, BrightU.AI's Enoch explains.

Initial estimates suggested around 200 fighters were underground, but military officials reported that repeated strikes and collapsing tunnels reduced that number significantly. According to Israeli sources, these fighters are running low on food and supplies, occasionally surfacing to scavenge for aid or abandoned military equipment before retreating underground.

Col. Adi Gonen of the Golani Brigade stated bluntly: "It's simpleeither they surrender, or we will kill them."

Israeli combat engineers have demolished hundreds of meters of tunnels, while warplanes have struck over 60 targets, including tunnel entrances and residential buildings. But despite these efforts, Hamas fighters have repeatedly evaded capture, forcing Israel to rely on overwhelming firepower rather than direct confrontation.

Failed negotiations and U.S. pressure

Behind the scenes, mediatorsincluding Egypt, Qatar and Turkeyattempted to broker a deal that would allow the trapped fighters to surrender and cross into Hamas-held territory in exchange for the remains of Israeli officer Hadar Goldin, whose body was returned earlier in November. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly rejected the proposal, opting instead for a military solution.

The U.S. has urged restraint, fearing that a violent resolution could collapse the ceasefire entirely. According to Axios, Washington views the Rafah standoff as a "test case" for broader disarmament efforts in Gaza. Yet Israel appears determined to press forward, signaling its intent to eliminate resistance fighters rather than negotiate their surrender.

Escalating violence and civilian toll

The siege has already exacted a high humanitarian cost. On Nov. 22, Israeli forces claimed a Hamas fighter crossed the Yellow Line and opened fire, prompting retaliatory airstrikes that killed at least 21 Palestiniansmost of them civilians, according to Gaza medical sources. As Israel escalates its bombardment, concerns grow over the potential for mass casualties among both fighters and civilians still sheltering in Rafah.

Meanwhile, Hamas' Qassam Brigades have publicly rejected surrender, insisting that mediators prevent Israel from exploiting the situation to undermine the truce. The group's defiance underscores the broader stalemate: Israel seeks total military victory, while Hamas refuses capitulation, leaving civilians caught in the middle.

The Rafah tunnel siege encapsulates the brutal calculus of Israel's war in Gazaa conflict where military objectives increasingly overshadow humanitarian considerations. With Israel vowing to "wipe out" the remaining fighters and Hamas refusing to surrender, the crisis risks spiraling into renewed violence. As international mediators scramble to prevent escalation, the trapped fightersand the civilians above themface an uncertain and perilous fate. The outcome may not only determine Rafah's future but also test the durability of the ceasefire itself.

Watch the aerial footage below that shows the scale of destruction left by the Israeli army in Rafah (2023-2025).

This video is from Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

TheCradle.com

X.com

BrightU.ai

Brighteon.com
Russias oil and gas revenues collapse by 35% in November as sanctions and falling prices bite

Russia's November 2025 oil and gas revenues plummeted by 35% year-on-year to just $6.6 billion, driven by crashing Urals crude prices, U.S. sanctions and a stronger ruble.

Recent U.S. sanctions targeting Rosneft and Lukoil have forced steep discounts on Russian oil, with Urals crude trading as low as $36.61 per barrel  far below the $88.95 peak in March 2022.

Oil and gas revenues  25% of Russia's federal budget  have fallen 22% over the first 11 months of 2025, forcing the Kremlin to revise its annual forecast down from $139 billion to $110 billion.

Despite Putins claims that sanctions won't alter Russia's war plans, analysts warn that shrinking revenues may force spending cuts, reserve depletion or risky sanctions evasion to sustain military operations in Ukraine.

The U.S. and EU are tightening sanctions enforcement (e.g., G7 price cap), while Ukraine sees signs of strain. However, Russia's rerouting of oil to China, India and shadow fleets delays full economic collapse.

Russia's oil and gas revenues, the lifeblood of its war economy, are set to plummet by 35% in November compared to the same month last year  dropping to just $6.6 billion, according to Reuters calculations.

The steep decline was driven by crashing Urals crude prices, U.S. sanctions and a strengthening ruble. It deals another blow to the Kremlin's ability to fund its prolonged war in Ukraine, where spending on defense and security has surged since the 2022 invasion.

The financial hemorrhage comes as Western sanctions tighten their grip on Russia's energy sector, with the U.S. Treasury confirming that recent measures against Rosneft and Lukoil  Russia's two largest oil producers  are "having their intended effect" of slashing Moscow's oil income.

The price of Urals crude, Russia's flagship export blend, has collapsed to near three-year lows, trading as low as $36.61 per barrel at the Black Sea port of Novorossiysk  down from $88.95 in March 2022 and a sharp decline from October's already depressed levels. According to BrightU.AI's Enoch engine, Urals crude  also known as Urals Blend  is a type of crude oil produced in Russia and exported globally. It is a blend of various crude oils from different fields in Western Siberia and the Volga-Ural region.

Oil and gas revenues constitute roughly a quarter of Russia's federal budget, making them the single most critical source of funding for Russian President Vladimir Putin's war machine. Yet the November nosedive is not an outlier. It follows a 27% year-on-year drop in October and a 22% decline over the first 11 months of 2025, with total energy income for the period falling to $102 billion, down from $141 billion in 2024.

The Russian Ministry of Finance, which had initially projected $139 billion in oil and gas revenue for 2025, was forced to revise its forecast downward to $110 billion last month as prices continued to slide. The average taxable price of Russian oil from January to November stood at just $57.30 per barrel, compared to $68.30 in the same period last year.

Compounding the problem, the Russian ruble has strengthened  trading at 81.1 rubles per dollar compared to 91.7 a year ago  further reducing the ruble-value of export earnings. This currency effect, combined with sanctions-induced discounts on Urals crude, has created a perfect storm for Russia's finances.

Sanctions aren't stopping Putin's war funding  for now

The latest U.S. sanctions, announced in late October, specifically targeted Rosneft and Lukoil, two of Russia's most critical oil exporters. The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) stated that the measures were designed to "dampen Russian revenues by lowering the price of Russian oil" and reduce long-term sales volumes.

The impact was immediate. The discount of Urals crude relative to the global Brent benchmark widened to an average of $23.52 per barrel in mid-November  the largest gap since May 2023. Analysts warn that if this trend persists, Russia's oil-dependent budget  already running a 2% deficit  could face further shortfalls, forcing the Kremlin to dip into reserves or cut spending.

Despite the mounting financial pressure, Putin has repeatedly dismissed the effectiveness of sanctions, insisting that Russia can "survive and prosper without the West." Speaking at a recent economic forum, Putin claimed that while sanctions may cause "temporary difficulties," they would not force Moscow to alter its course in Ukraine.

However, the numbers tell a different story. Russia's war economy is heavily reliant on oil and gas exports, which have historically funded military production, mercenary wages and occupation efforts in Ukraine. With revenues shrinking at an accelerating pace, analysts question how long the Kremlin can sustain its current level of war spending without deeper cuts to domestic programs or a risky expansion of money printing.

Ukraine and the West tighten the noose

Ukrainian officials and Western policymakers have expressed cautious optimism about the sanctions' impact. Meanwhile, European Union and U.S. officials have signaled that further restrictions on Russian oilincluding stricter enforcement of the G7 price capcould be imminent.

Yet challenges remain. Russia has rerouted much of its oil to China, India and "shadow fleet" tankers, circumventing some sanctions. Additionally, OPEC+ production cuts have kept global oil prices elevated enough to provide Moscow with a financial cushionthough not enough to offset the steep discounts imposed on Urals crude.

With 2025 drawing to a close, Russia faces three unpalatable options:

Dip into sovereign wealth funds  Russia's National Welfare Fund still holds $150 billion, but rapid depletion could trigger economic instability.

Implement austerity measures  cutting social spending or military budgets, risking public unrest or battlefield setbacks.

Double down on sanctions evasion  further obfuscating oil shipments through shell companies and dark fleet tankers, risking secondary U.S. sanctions.

The Finance Ministry's official November revenue figures, set to be published on Dec. 3, will provide further clarity. But one thing is already clear: Russia's war economy is under strain, and the Wests sanctions regime is biting harder than ever.

While Putin's rhetorical defiance remains unchanged, the economic reality is undeniable. Russia's oil-dependent budget is shrinking at an alarming rate, and with no end in sight to the Ukraine war, the Kremlin may soon face painful choices.

If oil prices remain suppressed and sanctions continue to tighten, Russia could be forced into deeper economic isolation, accelerating its pivot to Asiabut even that may not be enough. The longer the war drags on, the more Russia's financial foundations crack.

For now, the West's strategy of economic attrition appears to be working. But with Putin's regime showing no signs of backing down, the next phase of this financial war could be even more brutal.

Watch the video below about Russian oil profits collapsing as refined sales crash.

This video is from the MEGA (Make Earth Great Again) channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

OilPrice.com

Reuters.com

BrightU.ai

UNN.ua

United24Media.com

Brighteon.com
Unmanned incursions test NATOs eastern flank, closing European airports

Recent drone and balloon sightings caused temporary airport closures in the Netherlands and Lithuania.

European officials are increasingly concerned about airspace violations as a form of hybrid warfare.

Lithuania attributes balloon incursions to Belarusian smugglers but calls the activity a state-sponsored "hybrid attack."

NATO's eastern flank faces a pattern of airspace breaches, including a Russian attack drone crash in Latvia.

The EU is responding with new defense proposals, including a "drone wall" to protect its borders.

European airspace is under a new form of siege, not from fighter jets but from unmanned and seemingly low-tech aerial objects. In a series of disruptive incidents, airports in Lithuania and the Netherlands were forced to temporarily halt all operations in late November 2025 after sightings of balloons and drones, marking the latest in a months-long pattern of incursions that is stretching NATOs vigilance and testing its eastern borders. These events, ranging from contraband-carrying balloons to mysterious drones near military bases, have escalated regional tensions, forced a re-evaluation of continental defense and raised urgent questions about the vulnerability of Europe's critical infrastructure in this era of hybrid threats.

Airports grind to a halt

The immediate disruptions were stark. On November 24, Lithuanias Vilnius Airport twice closed its airspace overnight due to balloon sightings, diverting flights and marking the capital's ninth such shutdown since early October. Hours earlier, on the evening of November 22, both civilian and military air traffic at the Netherlands Eindhoven Airport was suspended after reports of "multiple drones." Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans confirmed that responsive measures were taken but withheld details for security reasons, stating simply, "Disruption of air traffic with drones is unacceptable." These incidents are not isolated. Recent months have seen similar flight groundings in Sweden, Belgium and Denmark, creating a continent-wide pattern of aerial nuisance and menace.

The "hybrid attack" from Belarus

While the Dutch drone sightings remain unexplained, Lithuanian officials have a consistent explanation for their repeated woes: state-tolerated smuggling from neighboring Belarus. Lithuania asserts that meteorological balloons, used by Belarusian criminal groups to transport illicit cigarettes across the border, are the culprit. However, the government frames this not as mere crime, but as a deliberate "hybrid attack" orchestrated by Minsk. In October, Lithuanian Prime Minister Inga Ruginiene closed the border with Belarus in response, declaring, "no hybrid attack will be tolerated here." Belarusian Foreign Minister Maxim Ryzhenkov dismissed the closure as a provocation, shifting blame to "organized gangs of Lithuanians." This exchange highlights how even low-tech incursions are now a potent tool for geopolitical friction, exploiting NATO's obligation to treat all unauthorized air traffic as a potential threat.

A vulnerable eastern flank

The context for these incidents transforms them from nuisances into significant security concerns. Lithuania, a Baltic NATO member, shares a border with Belarus, a close Russian ally that served as a staging ground for the invasion of Ukraine. This geographic reality amplifies every airspace violation.

In September 2024, a Russian Shahed attack drone crashed in Latvia.

Poland has intercepted multiple drones breaching its airspace.

Russian military jets have violated Estonian airspace.

This pattern underscores a region on edge, where Russia's war in Ukraine increasingly spills beyond its borders. The historical precedent is sobering: in 2022, a stray missile from a Ukrainian air defense intercept killed two people in Poland, briefly rattling NATO-Russia relations and demonstrating how quickly accidental incursions can escalate. The current drone and balloon incidents, whether acts of provocation, operational mishaps, or criminal enterprise, probe NATO's defenses and reveal systemic vulnerabilities along the alliance's most exposed frontier.

A continental defense response

Confronted with this persistent threat, European institutions are moving to harden their defenses. The European Commission has unveiled ambitious proposals for flagship defense projects aimed at being operational by the end of the decade. Central to this new strategy is the European Drone Defense Initiative, often called the "drone wall." Envisaged as a multilayered, technologically advanced system, it is designed to provide 360-degree detection, tracking and neutralization of hostile drones. Another key project, Eastern Flank Watch, seeks to integrate air defense, counter-drone systems, and maritime security in the Baltic and Black Seas. This concerted push represents a fundamental shift, acknowledging that Europe's borders must be defended against a new generation of asymmetric threats that target civilian infrastructure and test military readiness.

A new era of aerial vigilance

The temporary closures of airports in Vilnius and Eindhoven are more than isolated travel disruptions; they are symptoms of a broader, more precarious security environment. The skies over Eastern Europe have become a contested domain where the lines between criminal smuggling, state-sponsored provocation, and military probing are deliberately blurred. As NATO allies grapple with these persistent incursions, the development of a coordinated "drone wall" and enhanced eastern flank defenses signals a recognition that the era of passive airspace sovereignty is over. The challenge now is to build a shield that is both resilient and agile enough to counter threats that are as inexpensive and numerous as they are disruptive and dangerous.

Sources for this article include:

TheEpochTimes.com

Aljazeera.com

Reuters.com
Zelensky seeks urgent meeting with Trump to finalize peace deal terms

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is pushing for an immediate meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump to finalize a controversial peace deal, despite growing corruption scandals undermining Kyiv's credibility.

The original U.S.-backed 28-point plan, demanding Ukrainian territorial concessions, has been reduced to 19 points after pushback. However, Kyiv still faces pressure to cede occupied regions like Donbas, effectively legitimizing Russia's land grab.

Reports allege that Zelensky's chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, siphoned hundreds of millions in U.S. aid  claims suppressed by mainstream media. This corruption crisis weakens Ukraine's bargaining position and fuels Western skepticism.

Trump has delayed direct talks until a near-final deal is reached, opting instead for backchannel diplomacy via envoys. His hesitation suggests political wariness, especially as Ukraine's corruption scandal deepens.

With Ukraine's military struggling and Western aid waning, Zelensky's sudden pivot to negotiations marks a stark reversal. Meanwhile, the globalist war machine funded by defense contractors and corrupt officials faces growing exposure as peace talks accelerate.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is pushing for an immediate meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump to finalize a controversial peace deal that could reshape the future of Eastern Europe  even as a growing corruption scandal threatens to undermine Kyiv's negotiating position.

The proposed agreement, once a 28-point plan demanding major Ukrainian concessions, has been whittled down to 19 points after fierce pushback from Kyiv and European allies. The sudden urgency comes after months of stalled negotiations, battlefield losses and revelations that Ukraine's top officials may have siphoned off hundreds of millions in U.S. aid meant for the war effort.

Zelensky's chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, confirmed in an interview with Axios that Ukraine is prepared to meet Trump "as soon as possible" to solidify a joint U.S.-Ukrainian position before presenting it to Russia. "The primary gap to be bridged by the presidents was over territory," Yermak admitted, adding that this meeting could potentially happen as early as Thanksgiving.

Yet the most explosive sticking point  territorial surrender  remains. The original U.S. draft, leaked earlier this month, reportedly required Ukraine to cede occupied regions in Donbas and accept frozen frontlines in Kherson and Zaporizhzhia  effectively legitimizing Russia's land grab.

While U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio removed the clause barring North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) membership, one of Moscow's key demands, Ukrainian officials insist Zelensky will only discuss territorial compromises directly with Trump.

Behind the scenes, however, the negotiations are mired in intrigue. Former Fox News host Tucker Carlson recently alleged that the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) has suppressed a bombshell report exposing Yermak's alleged embezzlement of U.S. taxpayer funds  a scandal that could derail Ukraine's credibility.

"Yermak has skimmed hundreds of millions in American tax dollars meant for Ukraine aid," Carlson claimed on X. "The [WSJ's] editors can prove that. But they're not."

Ukraine's corruption crisis threatens Zelensky's grip on power

Meanwhile, Trump has taken a cautious approach, declaring on Truth Social that he will only meet Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin after a deal is nearly finalized. His envoy, Steve Witkoff, is set to travel to Moscow for backchannel talks, while Army Secretary Dan Driscoll will return to Kyiv. The president's hesitation suggests he is wary of political fallout  especially if Ukraine's corruption crisis deepens.

BrightU.AI's Enoch engine notes that Ukraine's corruption scandal involves the misuse of public funds intended for the country, where kickbacks, bribes and financial misconduct have diverted resources for personal gain. This blatant graft and abuse of power demand a thorough investigation and accountability to ensure taxpayer money is not squandered by corrupt officials.

Despite the turbulence, Yermak struck an optimistic tone, praising Trump's "historical mission to end this war" and hailing U.S. security guarantees  which would treat a Russian attack on Ukraine as an assault on the entire "transatlantic community"  as "legally binding" and unprecedented. Yet Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov warned that Moscow's stance could harden if the revised deal strays from earlier understandings between Trump and Putin.

The timing of these talks is critical: With Ukraine's military struggling to hold territory and Western aid fatigue growing, Kyiv faces dwindling leverage. Zelensky's sudden pivot to negotiations after years of vowing to reclaim all occupied land marks a stark reversal. Whether Trump can broker a deal that satisfies both sides without rewarding Russian aggression remains uncertain.

What is clear is that the globalist war machine  fueled by defense contractors, media manipulators and corrupt officials  faces unprecedented scrutiny. As peace talks accelerate, the truth about where billions in "aid" truly went may finally surface. For now, the world watches as two embattled leaders navigate a high-stakes game where the losers are not just nations, but the very principles of sovereignty and accountability.

Watch this clip of retired Col. Douglas Macgregor mentioning that Trump is aware Zelensky's war is lost.

This video is from the TREASURE OF THE SUN channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

News.Antiwar.com

Axios.com

KyivIndependent.com

BrightU.ai

Brighteon.com
Champaign, IL (61820)

Today

Cloudy. Snow showers developing this afternoon. High 29F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 70%. Snow accumulations less than one inch..

Tonight

Snow this evening will transition to snow showers late. Low around 25F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 100%. Snow accumulating 1 to 3 inches.
Japan's refusal to address its missteps precludes meaningful dialogue with China

14:13, November 28, 2025 By Zhou Xin ( People's Daily

Recent developments have led to a deterioration in China-Japan relations, following erroneous remarks by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding the Taiwan question. Instead of acknowledging and rectifying these misstatements, the Japanese side has opted for a high-profile diplomatic performance, proclaiming its "willingness to engage in dialogue with China."

Takaichi has claimed that she is "open to dialogue" with China, while senior Japanese officials continue to emphasize their hope to "improve relations through dialogue at all levels." Japanese media have further amplified this narrative, suggesting that Japan is actively pursuing dialogue, while China is portrayed as adopting a "tough stance," thereby insinuating that the current tension in bilateral ties is due to China's refusal to talk.

Such assertions fail to recognize the substantial damage caused by Japan's misguided words and actions, which have undermined the foundation of bilateral relations. They attempt to reframe Japan as the victim while placing unfounded blame on China. This misrepresentation distorts the facts, obscures the root causes of the current situation, and evades both historical and contemporary responsibility.

It is crucial to clarify that responsibility for the current difficulties in China-Japan relations lies entirely with the Japanese side.

The first mistake stems from Takaichi's public remarks on Taiwan, where she not only misrepresented the situation but also suggested the possibility of Japan's military involvement in the Taiwan Strait. This gravely undermines China's core interests, damages the political foundation of bilateral relations, and has sparked strong indignation among the Chinese people. This is the origin of the current crisis.

The second mistake is Japan's refusal to retract these remarks despite China's solemn representations, instead attempting to downplay the significance of the statements by asserting that "Japan's position has not changed."

The third mistake lies in Japan's attempt to distort right and wrong and shift blame onto China, using a so-called "willingness for dialogue" as a cover to obscure the gravity of its own wrongdoing.

These actions by Japan have directly contributed to the escalation of tensions. While Japan repeatedly asserts its desire to address issues through dialogue, it must be understood that dialogue requires the most basic conditions. In 2000, former Japanese Prime Minister Toshiki Kaifu visited the Memorial Hall of the Victims in Nanjing Massacre by Japanese Invaders, acknowledging the past with the statement that "history must never be repeated." This sincere approach to historical reflection formed the basis for constructive dialogue and exchanges.

However, some Japanese politicians have long avoided genuine introspection on historical matters. The Takaichi administration, in particular, has acted with disregard for public conscience, attempting to amend the Three Non-Nuclear Principles, relax weapons export restrictions, and provoke on the Taiwan question. These actions reveal the troubling influence of right-wing forces seeking to revive militarism.

Former Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama urged Takaichi to correct the mistake by quoting Confucius: "To make a mistake and not correct it -- this is what is called truly making a mistake."

History and reality have repeatedly shown that dialogue without reflection only deepens division and confrontation. It is only by confronting past mistakes and undertaking genuine self-reflection that both nations can overcome the current deadlock.

Japan must recognize that the Taiwan question is an internal affair for China, integral to its core interests, and central to the political foundation of China-Japan relations. The four political documents between China and Japan contain explicit provisions on the Taiwan question, representing solemn commitments by the Japanese government that leave no room for ambiguity or reinterpretation. Regardless of the political leadership in Japan, these commitments must be upheld.

To restore the bilateral relationship, Japan must move beyond performative diplomacy and take concrete steps to retract its erroneous statements while engaging in meaningful self-reflection. This is the only viable path to returning China-Japan relations to a constructive and stable trajectory.

(Zhou Xin is an international affairs observer.)

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
A sweeping analysis of more than a thousand patients finds that antibiotics offer no relief for viral colds or purulent nasal discharge, while increasing side effects.

Study: Antibiotics for the common cold and acute purulent rhinitis. Image Credit: Dragana Gorgic / Shutterstock.com

In a recent study published in Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, researchers conclude that antibiotics should not be used to treat the common cold and acute purulent rhinitis.

How is the common cold treated?

The common cold is an acute upper respiratory tract infection experienced by most of the global population annually. Although common colds are medically characterized as self-limiting viral infections that render antibiotics ineffective, many patients who present to their general practitioners receive antibiotics for these conditions.

The propensity of prescribing antibiotics further increases when patients have colored nasal discharge, a condition medically referred to as acute purulent rhinitis. Established guidelines do not typically recommend antibiotics for these conditions; however, these guidelines are supported by a limited number of small studies with varying methodological quality.

Due to the potential risk of adverse health outcomes and the global impact of antibiotic resistance because of antibiotic overuse, it is crucial to determine the effectiveness of antibiotics for treating conditions like the common cold.

Comparing antibiotics against placebo in early symptoms

Researchers from the University of Auckland searched various electronic databases and identified six studies of the common cold comprising 1,047 participants, as well as five studies of acute purulent rhinitis with 791 participants. These studies were analyzed to determine the effectiveness and side effects of antibiotic treatment for the common cold and acute purulent rhinitis.

Specifically, the meta-analysis included randomized controlled trials comparing any antibiotic therapy against placebo in patients experiencing acute upper respiratory tract infection symptoms for less than seven days, or acute purulent rhinitis for less than ten days.

The primary objective of the current meta-analysis was to assess the efficacy of antibiotics as compared to placebo for reducing general and specific nasopharyngeal symptoms of common colds, acute purulent rhinitis, and acute clear rhinitis. The researchers also identified any significant adverse outcomes associated with antibiotic therapy for these conditions.

Antibiotics show no benefit for cold symptoms

The meta-analysis of six studies with a total of 1,147 participants revealed that antibiotics are not effective in terms of curing or improving symptoms of the common cold in children and adults. Antibiotics significantly increased the risk of adverse outcomes in adults as compared to placebo; however, no significant side effects were observed in children who received antibiotics for the common cold.

The meta-analysis of four studies of acute purulent rhinitis with 723 participants revealed similar outcomes as observed for the common cold.

Sid effects outweigh any theoretical symptom relief

The current systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that antibiotics are not effective in treating the common cold or acute purulent rhinitis. Rather, these medications significantly increase the risk of adverse health effects, especially among adults with the common cold and both adults and children with acute purulent rhinitis.

Antibiotics do not work for either the common cold or for acute purulent rhinitis and many people are affected by antibiotic side effects

Notably, many of the analyzed trials have methodological limitations that may have biased the findings, including issues with randomization methods, selection bias, the presence of bacterial comorbidities, and incomplete outcome data. The inclusion of participants with bacterial diseases such as streptococcal tonsillitis or bacterial sinusitis further contributed to this bias, as these comorbidities can overestimate the effectiveness of treatment.

Despite these risks of bias, the review findings emphasize that antibiotics should not be prescribed for treating the common cold, as they will not improve patient symptoms while simultaneously increasing the risk of adverse effects.

The lack of therapeutic benefits and risk of adverse effects have similarly been observed for acute purulent rhinitis. However, existing evidence suggests that antibiotic treatment may be effective in patients with acute purulent rhinitis if symptoms persist for more than ten days.

There remains an urgent need for future studies to ascertain the role of pathogenic nasopharyngeal bacteria and their presence in upper respiratory tract infections while meticulously reporting adverse effects and symptoms.

Download your PDF copy now!
3,532 people convert to Judaism in Israel last year

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 13:30 IST

Representational image (Image: News18)

Tel Aviv [Israel], November 28 (ANI/TPS): The State Conversion System in the Prime Ministers Office held a national conversion conference this week in the Old City of Jerusalem, under the theme An Eternal People  One People." The conference, which was held for the first time, was attended by approximately 1,000 converts from all over the country who are in the midst of the conversion process. The goal of the conference is to strengthen the spirit of the converts who are currently in various stages of conversion and to see that many are in the process.The many converts who arrived represent a cross-section of Israeli society: men and women, young and old, soldiers and civilians, Sabras alongside immigrants from various countries  Ethiopia, the CIS countries, South America, France, and more.During the day, the converts toured the streets of the Old City, learned about Jewish history and heritage, and visited the Western Wall plaza  an exciting experience that left a deep impression on many of them.In 2024, 3,532 converts completed their conversion process in the state conversion system at the Prime Ministers Office, some in civilian settings in classrooms across the country, and some in a military setting in the Nativ track. As of today, 3,705 converts are studying in conversion preparation classes. (ANI/ TPS)

Click here to add News18 as your preferred news source on Google. Join the fun, play games on News18

First Published: November 28, 2025, 13:30 IST

News agency-feeds 3,532 people convert to Judaism in Israel last year

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Dolly Parton shares 'Thanksgiving' gratitude amid health challenges

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 23:45 IST

Representational image (Image: News18)

Washington DC [US], November 28 (ANI): Country legend Dolly Parton shared a warm Thanksgiving message, thanking fans for their support while recovering from recent health setbacks.In a video posted across her social-media channels, Parton greeted viewers with her signature charm: Well hey! Its Dolly here, and I want to wish all of you and your family blessings this Thanksgiving." She continued, I am so thankful for all of you and for the memories that weve shared through the years. So Happy Thanksgiving to everyone, and just know that I will always love you," according to The Hollywood Reporter. The heartfelt clip comes after a turbulent few months. Earlier this fall, Parton postponed her Las Vegas residency and missed the Academys 16th Governors Awardswhere she was slated to receive the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Awardciting medical concerns.In an October video, she reassured fans, Im not ready to die yet. I dont think God is through with me, and I aint done working." She explained that following her husband Carl Thomas Deans death in March, she had let some health matters slide, prompting doctors to recommend a few procedures" and a period of rest closer to home and Vanderbilt for treatments, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Parton thanked everyone for their prayers and concern, saying, I love you for caring and keep praying for me." Her sister Freida Parton also issued a statement clarifying that the health issues were minor and that the prayer request was simply a sisterly gesture, not an alarm, according to The Hollywood Reporter. (ANI)

Click here to add News18 as your preferred news source on Google. Join the fun, play games on News18

First Published: November 28, 2025, 23:45 IST

News agency-feeds Dolly Parton shares 'Thanksgiving' gratitude amid health challenges

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
India quietly delivers two world-first AI music breakthroughs in under a year

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 15:30 IST

Representational image (Image: News18)

Stills from Daddy" and Main Azaad Hoon" (Azaadi), the world-first AI music projects. Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], November 28: Indian creator and songwriter Jake Joss has achieved two global firsts in the field of AI-assisted music and video, marking a significant milestone for independent creativity in the country. By blending personal storytelling with generative technology, he has created two projects that have no prior global equivalent, both completed within the span of a single year.

The first achievement is the worlds first fully AI-generated music video where both the song and the visuals were produced using prompt engineering. Titled Daddy, the project began with lyrics Jake wrote himself, inspired by personal memories. He then used AI tools to generate the musical composition and build the entire visual narrative through text-based prompts. Each frame was crafted through written instructions and assembled into a cohesive story, demonstrating a new way of creating music videos without traditional production infrastructure.

Recommended Stories

The India Book of Records has formally recognised him as an IBR Achiever for this feat, noting the uniqueness of Daddy as the first music video created using this method.

Building on this, Jake created another global first: the worlds first Human AI collaborative patriotic music album with complete AI-generated music videos for every track. The five-track album, titled Azaadi, explores themes of identity, belonging and contemporary patriotism. Each song is paired with its own AI-generated video, developed through detailed scene-level prompts and structured into five distinct visual narratives. This makes Azaadi the first patriotic album globally where every track has been visually realised through generative AI.

Jakes creative journey has always been rooted in real-life memories and everyday moments that shaped his early musical experiments. Doosra Pyaar, his first song, was written for his daughter. Birdie captured lighthearted childhood humour. His Hindustani fusion piece Eri Aali, created with his daughter, brought together classical influences and modern expression.

Another meaningful part of Jakes evolution is Electric Current. Originally a playful tune he created as a child, it became a small family favourite among his cousins. Years later, with access to generative AI tools, he was finally able to bring the melody to life as a full, high-energy English track. Its revival reflects how AI can help artists revisit old ideas and develop them into complete works.

These experiences shaped Jakes philosophy of combining emotion, curiosity and experimentation. Technology, for him, is not a replacement for human creativity but a means of expanding what a single creator can make without a large team or traditional resources. My music did not begin with AI. It began with personal memories and moments. AI simply helped me express those feelings differently. The heart remains human. The tool is just new," he says.

Jakes accomplishments arrive at a time when India is rapidly strengthening its position as a hub for digital creativity, storytelling and technological innovation. As generative AI continues to influence music, film and design worldwide, his work illustrates how independent Indian creators can shape new formats without institutional support or large budgets. It also highlights the possibility that major creative breakthroughs may increasingly emerge from individual innovators rather than large studios.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

With two world-first achievements completed in less than a year and a growing portfolio that spans personal storytelling, childhood ideas and modern AI-driven experimentation, Jake represents a new wave of Indian creators exploring what becomes possible when imagination and technology work together. His work demonstrates how Indian storytellers can pioneer new creative formats and contribute meaningfully to the global evolution of AI-enabled art.

Jake shares his creative work and upcoming releases on Instagram at @original.sing (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with PNN and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR

Click here to add News18 as your preferred news source on Google. Join the fun, play games on News18

First Published: November 28, 2025, 15:30 IST

News agency-feeds India quietly delivers two world-first AI music breakthroughs in under a year

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
India seals Rs 7,995 cr deal with US for Navy's MH-60R helicopter fleet support

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 20:30 IST

Representational image (Image: News18)

New Delhi, Nov 28 (PTI) India on India sealed a Rs 7,995 crore deal with the US as part of follow on support" package for Indian Navys fleet of 24 Seahawk helicopters for five years.

The signing of the contract came amid some strain in ties between the two countries after US President Donald Trump slapped a whopping 50 per cent tariffs on Indian goods in late August.

Recommended Stories

The defence ministry said it signed Letters of Offer and Acceptance (LOAs) with the US for sustainment support of the MH60R helicopter fleet through follow-on support and supply for five years at an approximate value of Rs 7,995 crore.

MH-60R, manufactured by Lockheed Martin Corporation, is an all-weather helicopter designed to support multiple missions with state of the art avionics and sensors.

The LOAs were inked under the foreign military sales programme of the US.

India had signed an agreement with the US for procurement of 24-MH 60Rs in February 2020. The MH 60R Seahawk is a maritime variant of the Blackhawk helicopter.

The sustainment support is a comprehensive package which includes provisioning of spares, support equipment, product support, training and technical support, repair and replenishment of components, according to the defence ministry.

It also provides for setting up of intermediate level component repairs and periodic maintenance inspection facilities in India for the choppers.

In-country development of these facilities will ensure capability build-up in the long run and reduced dependence on the US government, thus aligning with the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat," the ministry said.

This would further lead to indigenous product and services development through MSMEs (Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises) and other Indian firms," it said in a statement.

The defence ministry said sustainment support would significantly enhance the operational availability and maintainability of the MH60R helicopters, which also have anti-submarine warfare capability.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

In addition, the support would enable the operation of these helicopters from dispersed locations as well as ships, ensuring optimal performance during all their primary and secondary missions," it said.

The first three MH-60R helicopters were delivered to India in 2021. PTI MPB ZMN

Click here to add News18 as your preferred news source on Google. Join the fun, play games on News18

First Published: November 28, 2025, 20:30 IST

News agency-feeds India seals Rs 7,995 cr deal with US for Navy's MH-60R helicopter fleet support

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Noida police arrests criminal after encounter

Last Updated: November 29, 2025, 01:15 IST

Representational image (Image: News18)

Noida, Nov 28 (PTI) The Gautam Buddh Nagar police has arrested a gangster, who was involved in alleged cow slaughter case, after an encounter late Friday night, officials said.

Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Zone (III) Sudhir Kumar said Jarcha police station was checking vehicles late on Friday night by placing a barrier near village Khurshidpur, when two people riding a motorcycle were seen approaching.

Recommended Stories

On suspicion, the police signaled them to stop, but they started running away from there. However, the accused were surrounded by the team after a chase.

The criminals allegedly opened fire at the police team. In retaliatory firing by the police, a bullet hit the leg of one of the criminals identified as Sajid, he said.

Kumar said that the police recovered a country-made pistol, cartridges, a sickle, a knife, a rope, a plastic pistol, an injection to make cattle unconscious, etc. from him.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

He said that the injured criminal has been admitted to the hospital for treatment. His accomplice Shahzad managed to flee and efforts are being made to arrest him.

Ten cases have already been registered against the criminal under various sections including cow slaughter, he added. PTI COR NB NB

Click here to add News18 as your preferred news source on Google. Join the fun, play games on News18

First Published: November 29, 2025, 01:15 IST

News agency-feeds Noida police arrests criminal after encounter

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Romanian Embassy in India hosts National Day celebrations

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 19:00 IST

Representational image (Image: News18)

New Delhi [India], November 28 (ANI): The Embassy of Romania in Delhi hosted its National Day Reception at The Imperial Hotel, commemorating the historic Great Union of 1918the moment that shaped modern Romania, an official statement said.This years celebration carried heightened significance as Romania and India marked 77 years of diplomatic partnership, celebrated through renewed energy, expanding cooperation, and a shared commitment to shaping a more interconnected, culturally dynamic world.The host of this celebration was Sena Latif, Ambassador of Romania to Indiaan inspiring diplomat whose vision, warmth, and dynamic leadership have brought a distinct vibrancy to Romania-India relations. Under her stewardship, cultural diplomacy has become a powerful bridge between the two nations, strengthening collaborations across arts, academia, and innovation.The evening opened with the Romanian National Anthem performed by Iulia Vantur, the celebrated Romanian artist whose extraordinary artistic journey spans Bollywood to being a part of WE ARE THE NEW WORLD @ THE VATICAN. She also presented select musical pieces from her acclaimed global repertoire.The Indian National Anthem was performed by Srijan Arora, a young Indian talent who fuses classical artistry with cutting-edge technological brilliance, the statement said.Guests also witnessed a spellbinding performance by the Transilvania Folkloric Ensemble of Baia Mare, bringing Romanias traditional dance heritage to life through expressive choreography and vibrant cultural storytelling.A distinctive highlight was an architectural exhibition curated by Architect Rajendra Kumar, crafted as a symbolic bridge celebrating the artistic, historical, and cultural echoes shared by Romania and India.The ceremony was elegantly guided by Sanjaanaa Jon, an internationally recognised Indian filmmaker, philanthropist, and global cultural integrator whose work unites nations through art, sustainability, and humanitarian advocacy.The reception brought together senior dignitaries, diplomats, cultural and business leaders, as well as the Romanian community, offering guests a taste of authentic Romanian cuisine and an immersive celebration of friendship, cultural harmony, and global cooperation, as per the statement.The Embassy of Romania extends its warm appreciation to all attendees for making the evening a memorable celebration of the evolving bond between Romania and India, driven by shared values, vibrant culture, and a forward-looking global vision, as per the statement. (ANI)

Click here to add News18 as your preferred news source on Google. Join the fun, play games on News18

First Published: November 28, 2025, 19:00 IST

News agency-feeds Romanian Embassy in India hosts National Day celebrations

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Russia set to ratify key military pact with India ahead of Putin's state visit

Last Updated: November 29, 2025, 03:15 IST

Representational image (Image: News18)

Moscow, Nov 29 (PTI) The Russian lower house of Parliament is set to ratify a crucial military pact with India ahead of President Vladimir Putins state visit on December 4-5 for the 23rd bilateral summit, according to reports.

Signed on February 18, 2025 in Moscow by the Indian Ambassador Vinay Kumar and erstwhile Deputy Defence Minister Alexander Fomin the Reciprocal Exchange of Logistics Agreement (RELOS) is to enhance military cooperation between the two strategic partners.

Recommended Stories

The State Duma has uploaded the RELOS in its ratification database along with the Russian governments note and said that the Russian government believes that the ratification of the document will strengthen cooperation between Russia and India in the military sphere", official news agency TASS reported.

The RELOS agreement aims to streamline coordination for joint military exercises, disaster relief and other operations.

According to local defence sources, RELOS will enhance military cooperation by simplifying procedures for joint activities, including exercises and disaster relief.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Agreements of this kind expand the geographic opportunities for peacetime operations for both participating parties. It is possible that the provisions of this agreement will apply to joint exercises in the Arctic, as India ships LNG from the Yamal Peninsula, Izvestia daily noted at the time of its signing.

The Indian Navys Talwar class frigates as well as INS Vikramaditya aircraft carrier are equipped to sail in freezing climate of Arctic can use the Russian naval bases for logistic support while Russian Navy can use Indian facilities to boost its presence to offset Chinese and other outside countries presence in the Indian Ocean Region, experts here believe. PTI VS SKY SKY

Click here to add News18 as your preferred news source on Google. Join the fun, play games on News18

First Published: November 29, 2025, 03:15 IST

News agency-feeds Russia set to ratify key military pact with India ahead of Putin's state visit

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
SC notice to Centre on plea to ban female genital mutilation among Muslims

Last Updated: November 29, 2025, 00:45 IST

Representational image (Image: News18)

New Delhi, Nov 28 (PTI) The Supreme Court on Friday agreed to examine a plea to ban the practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) or female circumcision prevailing among Muslims, especially in the Dawoodi Bohra community.

A bench of Justices B V Nagarathna and R Mahadevan issued notices to the Centre and others on the plea filed by an NGO.

Recommended Stories

The court was hearing a plea filed by NGO Chetna Welfare Society, claiming that the practice is not an essential part of Islam and it violates the rights of children.

It is submitted that there is not any independent law specifically banning this. The act itself falls under multiple offences relating to causing hurt under the BNS, such as sections 113, 118(1), 118(2) and 118(3).

Even in the POCSO Act, touching the genitalia of a minor for non-medical reasons is a violation. It is submitted that the World Health Organisation has classified FGM as a gross violation of the human rights of girls and women," the plea has said.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

The petition also says the act violates the fundamental guarantees provided by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

FGM is a serious health concern as it can cause infections, problems relating to childbirth and other severe physical impairments," the plea says. PTI PKS RC

Click here to add News18 as your preferred news source on Google. Join the fun, play games on News18

First Published: November 29, 2025, 00:45 IST

News agency-feeds SC notice to Centre on plea to ban female genital mutilation among Muslims

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Tamil Nadu: Heavy rainfall triggers waterlogging in several parts of Thoothukudi

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 09:30 IST

Representational image (Image: News18)

Thoothukudi (Tamil Nadu) [India], November 28 (ANI): Severe waterlogging was witnessed in parts of Thoothukudi on Friday due to continuous widespread rainfall over the past few days that has left large portions of urban and suburban areas inundated. With rainwater still not fully drained, heavy rain lashed parts of Thoothukudi around 5 am today, further disrupting the daily routine of residents already struggling with stagnant water.Several roads and low-lying residential neighbourhoods remain submerged, heightening public concerns.According to officials, necessary precautionary measures are underway to mitigate potential impact.The Indian Meteorological Department has issued a yellow warning to the Thoothukudi district, predicting thunderstorms, lightning, and squalls for today, along with strong surface winds. The warning for thunderstorms has been issued till November 29 (Saturday).Earlier, the residents had alleged that no officials had come to inspect the area or even visit them. The residents also demanded that proper road facilities and drinking water be provided in the area immediately.Residents insist that authorities must take swift action to resolve these long-standing issues faced by KVK Saami Nagar.Every time the monsoon season begins, we are forced to face the same challenges. With small children and elderly people at home, we are suffering a lot. Even an ambulance cannot enter our streets. We are unable to go to work, and children cannot go to school. A few families here are already affected by fever," one of the residents told ANI.However, on November 26, Tamil Nadu minister Geetha Jeevan inspected waterlogging areas in the district.According to Chennais Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) the Northeast monsoon has been vigorous over Tamil Nadu on November 24, and active over the state on November 22-23 and over South Tamil Nadu on November 25. On Wednesday (November 26), rainfall occurred in isolated places over the state, including a few places over South Coastal Tamil Nadu, whereas dry weather prevailed over Puducherry and the Karaikal region.The low-pressure area over the Southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining areas of South Sri Lanka has become a well-marked low-pressure area, and is likely to move north-northwestwards to be concentrated into a depression. (ANI)

Click here to add News18 as your preferred news source on Google. Join the fun, play games on News18

First Published: November 28, 2025, 09:30 IST

News agency-feeds Tamil Nadu: Heavy rainfall triggers waterlogging in several parts of Thoothukudi

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
India IT Sector Set For FY27 Comeback With AI Ramp-Up As Key Driver: Nomura

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 09:55 IST

Indias information technology services industry may be nearing a recovery phase after two years of muted performance

Indias information technology services industry may be nearing a recovery phase

Indias information technology services industry may be nearing a recovery phase after two years of muted performance, with analysts at Nomura expecting a modest improvement in revenue growth and profitability by FY27. The revival is likely to be supported by easing macroeconomic pressures and a clearer monetisation path for artificial intelligence (AI)-led services.

AI Loser Fears Seen as Overdone

Recommended Stories

In its 2026 sector outlook, Nomura analysts Abhishek Bhandari and Karan Nain noted that subdued top-line performance has weighed on investor sentiment, with industry revenues growing just 1.8 percent in FY25 and an estimated 2.9 percent in FY26. This slowdown has fuelled concerns that automation could shrink traditional IT revenue pools, turning the sector into a net AI loser."

Nomura, however, believes this narrative is overly pessimistic. It views the current weakness as cyclical rather than structural, pointing out that every major technology shift in the past has expanded the overall addressable market for IT services. As enterprises embrace more complex digital and AI-driven systems, system integrators are expected to remain central to connecting diverse technology platforms.

The brokerage added that the present slowdown is largely driven by early-stage AI-related price deflation and a cautious global macro environment. With clients focused on cost optimisation, discretionary tech spending has softened and fresh digital projects are being deferred. Nomuras analysis of Global 2000 companies suggests that demand conditions in 2026 are likely to mirror 2025stable but unspectacular.

AI Monetisation Upswing Seen in 1218 Months

Against this backdrop, Nomura expects revenue growth for its large-cap IT coverage to improve to 4.5 percent in FY27, higher than FY26 levels. Mid-cap IT companies, which have outperformed consistently over the past two years, are likely to maintain their growth edge. A faster interest-rate easing cycle and easing global trade tensions could offer additional support.

The brokerage expects a more meaningful growth inflection once AI adoption moves beyond pilot projects. Leading Indian IT firms are already investing heavily by embedding AI into internal operations, redesigning service offerings, strengthening client-facing AI programmes, and forming ecosystem partnerships. While early transitions from pilots to standalone deployments have begun, larger revenue pools are expected to open up only when enterprises standardise data and scale AI usage across business functionssomething Nomura expects over the next 1218 months. This shift should also rekindle demand for cloud and data modernisation services.

Margins to Improve Modestly

Profitability is also expected to improve gradually as revenue growth picks up. For FY27, Nomura forecasts an expansion of 30 basis points in average Ebit margins for large-cap IT firms under its coverage, while mid-cap margins could rise by about 50 basis points. Ongoing investments in AI are unlikely to cause any material pressure on margins.

Valuations Attractive, But Selectivity Key

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

While valuations across the sector remain appealing, the brokerage remains selective in its stock calls. It has rolled its valuation framework forward to H1FY28 while retaining existing target multiples. Companies that deliver above-industry growth are expected to outperform.

Nomuras preferred large-cap picks include Infosys and Cognizant. Among mid-caps, it favours Coforge, while eClerx is its top small-cap choice. The brokerage maintains a contrarian Buy on Wipro and continues with a Reduce rating on L&T Technology Services.

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 28, 2025, 09:55 IST

News business economy India IT Sector Set For FY27 Comeback With AI Ramp-Up As Key Driver: Nomura

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Employee Who Was 'Forced' To Resign While Dad Was In ICU Wins Case Against TCS

Curated By :

Translation Desk

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 16:29 IST

While the employee was at the hospital, HR representatives reportedly issued an ultimatum to either resign in exchange for 10 months' salary or face termination

Rapid Read Choose News18 on Google

Despite having sufficient leave balance, TCS allegedly refused to extend his leave and instead began pressuring him to return to work. (AI-Generated Image)

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), long regarded as one of the countrys most respected IT firms, has come under renewed scrutiny following allegations that it forced an employee in Mumbai to resign while he was attending to his critically ill father in the ICU.

According to details shared by the Forum for IT Employees (FITE), the employee, who had served the company for seven years, had taken emergency leave after his father was admitted for surgery. Despite having sufficient leave balance, TCS allegedly refused to extend his leave and instead began pressuring him to return to work.

Recommended Stories

While he remained at the hospital, HR representatives reportedly issued an ultimatum to either resign in exchange for 10 months salary or face termination, even though he was involved in an ongoing project.

The employee eventually resigned and later joined another firm. However, the situation escalated when TCS withheld his gratuity payment. He subsequently approached the Mumbai labour office, which summoned the companys management and cautioned them against what it termed unfair labour practices".

Dark side of #TCS  Part 07 ,,,,but here TCS lost #EmployeesVictory over TCS unfair policies.A Mumbai-based TCS employee with 7 years of service was forced to resign last year while he was on emergency leave, attending to his father in the ICU.Despite having sufficient  Forum For IT Employees  FITE (@FITEMaharashtra) November 19, 2025

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

After nearly a year of proceedings, the labour commissioner directed TCS to release the full gratuity amount owed for his seven years of service. The employee finally received the pending payment following the order.

The incident adds to the criticism the IT major is already facing amid widespread reports of layoffs and workforce restructuring across the sector.

First Published: November 28, 2025, 16:29 IST

News business Employee Who Was 'Forced' To Resign While Dad Was In ICU Wins Case Against TCS

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Mumbai Air Pollution: HC Orders Five-Member Panel To Inspect Construction Sites

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 17:22 IST

Bombay HC forms a five-member team with BMC, Health Department, MPCB, and civil society to inspect Mumbai air pollution, seeking reports on construction site compliance by Dec 15.

Rapid Read Choose News18 on Google

This initiative comes at a crucial time as several areas in Mumbai have been reporting higher air quality index levels. (Image: PTI/File)

The Bombay High Court on Friday directed the formation of a five-member team comprising officials from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), the Health Department, the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB), and members of civil society to examine the rising air pollution in Mumbai.

The team has been asked to conduct inspections in a specific area of the city and submit its report by December 15 on whether air pollution control guidelines are being followed at construction sites.

Recommended Stories

The panel will include one official each from the BMC, the Health Department, and the MPCB. The remaining two members will be from civil society, with their names having been suggested by lawyers present in court.

The court was hearing multiple petitions on the worsening Air Quality Index (AQI) in Mumbai, which lawyers for the petitioners said has been steadily declining since 2023. It directed the BMC and the MPCB to submit a report by December 15 outlining the steps taken over the past year to curb air pollution.

This will take some time. Delhi has been struggling since more than 15 years now. Mumbai, in fact, has some benefits. In Mumbai, it can be done," the court said.

Chief Justice Chandrashekhar said that improving air quality would require sustained effort, noting that Delhi has been grappling with pollution for over 15 years. However, he added that Mumbai could deliver better outcomes if the right measures are implemented.

The court also sought greater transparency on the BMCs monitoring efforts, including inspections by special squads and the installation of CCTV cameras and sensor-based air pollution monitors at construction sites.

Let us ensure that construction sites and dust pollution are tackled. It can be done immediately in one to two weeks. That would be some effective measures," the bench said.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Senior counsel Darius Khambata, appointed by the court, said the 2024 guidelines for construction sites, such as water sprinkling, use of sensors and CCTV monitoring, were not being implemented uniformly. The court observed that while vehicular pollution is also a concern, it can be taken up at a later stage.

The bench stressed that immediate action could be taken to reduce dust and construction-related pollution within one to two weeks if guidelines were properly followed.

First Published: November 28, 2025, 17:22 IST

News mumbai-news Mumbai Air Pollution: HC Orders Five-Member Panel To Inspect Construction Sites

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
8 Complaints Of Ragging, Sexual Harassment Received In Two Years: Odisha Govt

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 15:21 IST

In response to a written question from BJD legislator Arvind Mohapatra, the Higher Education minister stated that the complaints originated from six colleges and one university.

According to UGC regulations, institutions must form Student Grievance Redressal Committees and appoint ombudspersons at the university level.(Representational image)

Over the past two years, the Odisha government has received eight complaints from women students in various colleges and universities concerning ragging, sexual discrimination, and harassment, as informed by Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj to the state assembly on Friday.

In response to a written question from BJD legislator Arvind Mohapatra, the minister clarified that these complaints came from six colleges and one university, reported PTI.

Recommended Stories

Two complaints were from female students of Government Autonomous College, Rourkela, while others were from F M Autonomous College (Balasore), G M University (Sambalpur), Abhimanyu Samanta Singhar Degree College (Jajpur), Athamalik College (Angul), Anchal College (Bargarh), and D A V Autonomous College, Titlagarh (Bolangir).

To curb such incidents in higher education institutions, the department has issued guidelines to all state public universities and colleges. Students are encouraged to use the Tele-Manas national mental health helpline (14416), which provides free, 24/7 tele-counselling support.

Additionally, the Tele-Manas mobile application offers self-assessment tools for those interested.

The minister also highlighted the implementation of the UGC (Redressal of Grievances of Students) Regulations, 2023, to ensure a fair and transparent grievance redressal system in universities and colleges.

According to UGC regulations, institutions must form Student Grievance Redressal Committees (SGRCs) and appoint ombudspersons at the university level.

This mechanism addresses issues such as admission irregularities, non-transparent evaluation, scholarship or certificate delays, discrimination, harassment, and infrastructure deficiencies.

Each institution must resolve complaints within prescribed timelines, and protection against victimisation of complainants is required," Suraj stated.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Additionally, the state government has launched the Shaktishree" scheme, a statewide initiative to ensure the safety, security, and empowerment of women in universities and colleges.

As part of this initiative, each institution will establish a Shaktishree Empowerment Cell, coordinated by a woman faculty member and a female student, to promote safety, self-defence, and emotional well-being among students and staff, fostering safer and more inclusive campuses across the higher education ecosystem.

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 28, 2025, 15:21 IST

News education-career 8 Complaints Of Ragging, Sexual Harassment Received In Two Years: Odisha Govt

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
IIM Offers 60 Free Courses From Home, No CAT Needed  Check Full Details Here

Curated By :

Translation Desk

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 16:09 IST

Sixty IIM courses are opening to everyone. No CAT, no classroom, just learning from home at your own pace. A rare chance to learn top-tier skills without spending a rupee

Rapid Read + Follow us On Google

IIM Bangalore offers 60 free online courses via the SWAYAM portal, focusing on AI and management skills.

The Indian Institute of Management Bangalore has taken a significant step by opening a valuable opportunity for working professionals and graduates. In collaboration with the Ministry of Educations SWAYAM portal, IIM Bangalore is set to launch more than 60 free online courses. These programmes focus chiefly on AI learning and management skills, helping learners strengthen and advance their careers in an increasingly technology-driven corporate world.

One of the greatest advantages of these free IIM courses is their flexibility, you can complete them alongside your job or other professional commitments. The courses cover both the fundamentals of AI theory and practical, industry-ready skills such as generative AI, data-driven decision-making, and AI-integrated management.

Recommended Stories

This initiative aims to provide millions of learners across India with free access to high-quality management education.

Free Courses On SWAYAM

All 60 courses will be available on the SWAYAM (Study Webs of Active-Learning for Young Aspiring Minds) platform, with registrations beginning in January 2026. There is no fee to enrol; however, those wishing to obtain an IIM Bangalore certificate must sit an examination costing Rs 750.

The curriculum includes a wide range of essential topics related to artificial intelligence and modern management.

Key courses include:

AI In Marketing

Next-gen Software Testing with AI-Integrated Management

ABC of Supply Chain

AI in Digital and Social Media Marketing

AI in Accounting

AI-powered CRM

Advanced Marketing

Basic Python Programming and Applications in Finance

AI and Engineering Economics for Managers

Banking and Insurance

Data-driven Marketing Decision-Making

Generative AI and Large Language Models

Marketing for Entrepreneurship

Deep Learning

Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs)

Several courses offer in-depth programmes on artificial intelligence, particularly useful for work involving text, visual, and multimedia data. They provide strong foundations in generative AI, deep learning, algorithmic thinking, and the development of innovative AI-driven solutions.

Most IIM Bangalore courses on SWAYAM are Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), typically lasting 5 to 12 weeks, depending on their complexity. Learners should expect to dedicate 4 to 5 hours per week.

These courses are fully online and self-paced, delivered through four structured components:

Video Lectures: High-quality recorded lessons by IIM faculty

High-quality recorded lessons by IIM faculty Study Material: Downloadable reading material and notes

Downloadable reading material and notes Self-Assessment: Weekly quizzes, tests, and assignments

Weekly quizzes, tests, and assignments Discussion Forum: An interactive platform to ask questions and engage with instructors and fellow learners

How To Apply (Free Registration)

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Visit the SWAYAM portal (swayam.gov.in). Create an account using your details. Select any course from the list of 60 IIM Bangalore offerings. Submit your registration. Enrolments begin in January 2026.

Note: All courses are free, but the certificate examination from IIM Bangalore requires a fee of Rs 750.

First Published: November 28, 2025, 16:09 IST

News education-career IIM Offers 60 Free Courses From Home, No CAT Needed  Check Full Details Here

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
UPSC Journey: DM vs SDM, What's The Difference And Where Does An IAS Officer Begin?

Curated By :

Translation Desk

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 19:41 IST

Under DoPT and UPSC guidelines, an IAS officer's first independent assignment is as SDM (Sub-Divisional Magistrate) or Assistant Collector, a role they usually hold for 1-4 years

Rapid Read + Follow us On Google

A District Magistrate, also called the District Collector, is the chief executive authority of an entire district. (AI-Generated Image)

In the quiet Himalayan town of Musoorie where young recruits arrive with starry eyes and heavy backpacks, the making of an IAS officer begins long before they ever sign a government file. Cracking the UPSC Civil Services Exam may be the first victory, but insiders often say the true test begins only after one enters the gates of Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA).

According to the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), the nearly two-year curriculum at LBSNAA is designed to turn high-performing graduates into servant leaders", individuals equally capable of drafting a policy and trekking a mountain trail.

Recommended Stories

The journey opens with a 15-week Foundation Course, where IAS, IPS, IFS and other civil service trainees study shoulder-to-shoulder. The academics consists of studying the Constitution, Economics, Law, and Public Administration. But the academy insists the classroom is only half the story. Yoga at dawn, horse riding lessons, cross-country runs and treks through the hills are woven into the daily timetable in what LBSNAA calls holistic preparation for public life".

Once the basics are absorbed, trainees move into Phase-1, an IAS-exclusive module spread over 20 weeks. Here, the focus shifts to state-specific administrative issues like land revenue systems, disaster management, field inspections, and public service delivery.

A highlight of the year is Bharat Darshan, a 10-day study tour that takes officer trainees to Army, Navy and Air Force bases, major projects, and culturally diverse regions across the country. The idea, the academy notes, is to expose them to the country they will eventually help govern.

First Steps Into The Field

After Phase-1, textbooks give way to terrain maps. Officer trainees disperse across their cadre states like Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Bihar and others for nearly a year of district training. For six crucial weeks, they work directly under an SDM or Assistant Collector, observing everything from revenue collection to maintaining law and order in tense rural pockets.

This is followed by a 3-month Assistant Secretary stint in Delhi, where they assist central ministries to understand how national policy takes shape. Its only after completing these cycles that they are formally designated as Probationary Officers.

Life at this stage is disciplined: a monthly stipend of Rs 56,100, deductions for mess and hostel facilities, limited mobile phone use, and no family accommodation. The rules, the government maintains, are meant to instil focus and prepare officers for demanding field conditions.

Why New IAS Officers Dont Become DM Overnight

Popular perception often imagines a freshly minted IAS officer stepping straight into the role of District Magistrate (DM). The reality is far more measured.

Under DoPT and UPSC guidelines, an IAS officers first independent assignment is as SDM (Sub-Divisional Magistrate) or Assistant Collector, a role they usually hold for one to four years.

An SDM is the administrative head of a sub-division, typically two to three tehsils in states like Haryana or Uttar Pradesh. It is a demanding frontline post, combining executive, revenue and magisterial powers. SDMs oversee law and order, hear land dispute cases, manage disaster relief, conduct elections, and can even impose Section 144 when peace is threatened. The pay at this stage ranges from Rs 56,100 to Rs 1,77,500, besides allowances.

Only after proving themselves in such grassroots roles, often as SDM, Chief Development Officer (CDO), or Project Officer, are officers considered ready for the hot seat at the district headquarters.

What A DM Actually Does

A District Magistrate, also called the District Collector, is the chief executive authority of an entire district. Under the Code of Criminal Procedure, the DM is the senior-most executive magistrate, responsible for maintaining public order. Working in tandem with the Superintendent of Police (SP), the DM supervises revenue administration, oversees development projects, conducts elections, and leads disaster response.

During crises like floods, communal tension, or the Covid-19 vaccination drive, DMs are the faces of government action. They also hold specialised powers, such as issuing adoption orders under the Juvenile Justice Act. The post comes with a higher pay band, starting at Rs 67,700 and extending up to Rs 2,08,700.

The Long Climb To Top Bureaucratic Ranks

The IAS career ladder, as outlined by DoPT, is designed to stretch over three decades:

1-4 years: SDM/Assistant Collector

5-8 years: ADM or Deputy Secretary

9-12 years: District Magistrate or Joint Secretary

13-16 years: Special Secretary or Director

16-24 years: Divisional Commissioner or Secretary in a state ministry

25-30 years: Additional Chief Secretary or Principal Secretary

Above 30 years: Chief Secretary or Cabinet Secretary, the highest civil service post, reporting to the PMO

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Promotions depend on a mix of seniority, performance and the Annual Confidential Report (ACR). Officers also undergo mandatory mid-career training at the 10-, 20- and 30-year marks to stay aligned with evolving governance challenges. Retirement comes at 60, accompanied by lifelong pension benefits.

The odyssey from SDM to Cabinet Secretary is long, layered and often unforgiving. Yet each posting, from a dusty subdivisional office to the marbled corridors of Delhi, is crafted to mould officers who understand India at every level.

First Published: November 28, 2025, 19:41 IST

News education-career UPSC Journey: DM vs SDM, What's The Difference And Where Does An IAS Officer Begin?

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
It's Personal: Why Asim Munir And Imran Khan Are Locked In Hostility

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 17:25 IST

The hostility began years before Imran Khans arrest, rooted in personal slights, public accusations and a rare breakdown of civilmilitary boundaries

Imran Khans supporters have already started demanding that he be freed from Adiala Jail as they fear a threat to his life. (IMAGE: REUTERS)

The tense standoff between Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir and jailed former prime minister Imran Khan is often described as political, sometimes as institutional, and increasingly as ethnic. But at its core, the rupture is deeply personal. What began years ago as a clash of egos and accusations has today become one of Pakistans most destabilising power struggles, resurfacing sharply amid rumours of Imran Khans death in jail and unprecedented silence from the state.

The Crisis Over Imran Khans Whereabouts

Recommended Stories

In November, an Afghan news outlet reported that Imran Khan might have died in custody. The story landed in a context where, for four weeks, he had not been seen or heard from. Court orders allowing weekly family visits were not implemented. His wife, PTI leaders and lawyers had no access to him, and neither Adiala Jail authorities nor Punjabs senior police officials could explain why visits had stopped.

On Thursday, thousands of supporters gathered outside Adiala Jail, chanting and demanding answers. People were not asking for statements; they were asking for evidence that he was alive. In the past, when rumours about Khans death had circulated, the government had quickly moved to issue clarifications. This time, the weeks of silence about his condition, followed by the refusal to implement court-ordered meetings, created a different kind of anxiety.

Imran Khans party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), described Asim Munir on X as a powerless, insecure dictator masquerading as a general" and accused him of using abduction, torture and imprisonment against those who stood with Imran Khan. The party argued that Khan was being kept in complete isolation and that the blackout was deliberate.

This crisis did not emerge in isolation. It sits on top of years of personal and political hostility between Munir and Khan.

How The Feud Began

The first clear rupture between the two men dates back to 20182019, when Imran Khan was prime minister and Asim Munir was appointed director-general of the ISI. Munirs tenure lasted only about eight months, the shortest in the agencys history.

Munir had begun looking into corruption allegations linked to Bushra Bibi, Imran Khans wife. Khan was reportedly angered by this, and he pushed then army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa to remove Munir from the position. Munir was moved to command a corps in Gujranwala, a prestigious assignment but a clear step away from the direct control he had briefly wielded over Pakistans main intelligence service.

For an officer who had reached the pinnacle of the intelligence hierarchy, the removal was widely seen as a professional setback and a personal humiliation.

This episode laid the foundation for a personal grudge.

From Armys Saviour Project To Its Nemesis

For years, Pakistans military establishment viewed Imran Khan as a potential saviour. He was seen as a political outsider who could cleanse a discredited system, carry the armys preferred narrative and offer a new kind of legitimacy to a state often run from behind the scenes by generals.

That relationship deteriorated quickly after he came to power. By 2022, Khan was ousted through a no-confidence vote. He and his supporters increasingly blamed the military leadership for engineering his removal. The sense of betrayal cut both ways: Khan felt the institution had turned against him, while the military saw a leader it had backed now accusing it in public.

Khans support base also changed the calculus. He attracted a constituency that included people who had previously stayed away from politics  urban middle-classes, women and young first-time voters  many of whom came to see the army as the central obstacle in Pakistani politics. They were often accused of naivety, but their anger after his ouster was directed squarely at the military, not just at rival parties.

Naming Generals And Breaking Pakistans Political Taboos

The rift deepened in the months following Imran Khans ouster when he began doing something unusual in Pakistani politics  naming serving generals directly in public speeches. Before his arrest in May 2023, Khan repeatedly identified Asim Munir as the officer he believed was trying to crush" his party, PTI. He consistently accused Munir of driving actions taken against PTI after his removal from office.

Khan also targeted Bajwa, calling him a traitor, and blamed him for engineering his removal

While Pakistani politicians have criticised the military institutionally in the past, direct personal accusations against serving intelligence officials were rare. Khans language signalled that he was no longer willing to keep civilmilitary tensions contained within traditional boundaries. For the military leadership, this reinforced the perception that Khan was challenging the institutions internal cohesion and hierarchy.

By the time Asim Munir assumed the post of army chief in November 2022, he was taking command of an institution that believed it was under sustained public attack by a former prime minister, and one with whom he had a personal history.

May 2023 Protests

The decisive break came on 9 May 2023. After repeated failed attempts, Khan was arrested, and his supporters responded in a way no mainstream political force had before. They entered cantonment areas, breached the gates of the armys General Headquarters in Rawalpindi and ransacked the residence of a senior general in Lahore, filming themselves while damaging property.

For many Pakistanis, it was the first time they saw cantonment life  large houses, manicured lawns, visible privilege  laid bare on social media. For the army, this was a direct challenge to its prestige and control. Munir later called 9 May a black day" in Pakistans history.

The state response followed familiar lines: multiple cases against PTI leaders, mass arrests and moves to try some protesters in military courts. The army also used public messaging campaigns, including songs about martyrs and posters praising the military, and pressured PTI leaders to either leave the party or publicly distance themselves from Khans confrontational approach.

From the militarys perspective, 9 May confirmed that Imrans movement had crossed a red line. From Khans perspective, the subsequent crackdown confirmed that the army was determined to crush him politically.

Imran Khans Public Criticism Of Munir

Khan faced a cascade of legal cases. By August 2023, he was jailed on graft and related charges.

From jail and through his party, Imran Khan continued to criticise Munir by name. In October 2023, he accused the army chief of turning Pakistan into a hard state," adding that what he called Asim Law" suppressed democratic institutions. He alleged that he was kept in total isolation, denied contact with lawyers, family and political colleagues, and argued that the treatment represented political victimisation.

His aide Zulfi Bokhari claimed that Bushra Bibis family had been made to wait outside Adiala for over six hours, only to be denied visitation and even the right to deliver daily essentials.

These statements contributed to the impression of a feud driven not only by power calculations but also by personal resentment.

Munirs Consolidation Of Power

The recent amendments to Pakistans constitutional and military framework intensified the dynamics between the two men. In November this year, Pakistan passed the 27th Constitutional Amendment, which amended Article 243 and elevated Asim Munir to the position of Chief of Defence Forces. This change extended his authority across the army, navy and air force, provided lifetime immunity, and expanded his formal powers over key state institutions.

These reforms consolidated his position at a moment of economic strain, rising insecurity, and growing Taliban-linked violence in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

As Munir strengthened his institutional position, PTI has argued that these changes enable a crackdown on dissent. The party has claimed that Munir fears Imran Khans influence and popularity, which remains significant even after his imprisonment.

Pashtuns, Punjabis And The Deeper Ethnic Wound

Ethnic tensions form an important backdrop to the confrontation. The military and federal institutions are dominated by Punjabis. Pashtuns (Pathans), concentrated in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and parts of Balochistan, have often felt sidelined and underdeveloped compared to Punjab. Punjabs control over federal funds has left KP relatively underdeveloped, feeding a sense of injustice.

Recent Pakistani airstrikes in Khost and Paktika, which killed civilians, and the forced return of Afghan refugees in harsh conditions, have fuelled the view among many Pashtuns that the Punjabi-led establishment is acting against them.

In an October column for the diaspora news portal GlobalVillageSpace, Barrister Shahzad Akbar wrote The latest official rhetoric from the military establishment paints Pashtuns, Afghans, and the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) as the problem, conveniently linking them with Talibanisation and internal insecurity."

Within this context, Imran Khans Pashtun identity and PTIs strength in KP give the feud an added layer.

The reaction to rumours of Imran Khans death underscored this volatility. Delhi-based journalist Ninad Sheth wrote on X, Reports surface of Imran Khans killing. If true, the Pashtoon belt could see a chain reaction. Blood feud looms. His martyrdom would ignite fury from Khyber to Kandahar. Pakistan Armys Asim Munir cant contain that. And if Imran is alive, this increases pressure for his well-being."

Reports surface of Imran Khans killing if true, the Pashtoon belt could see a chain reaction.Blood feud looms. His martyrdom would ignite fury from Khyber to Kandahar. Pakistan Armys Asim Munir cant contain that. and if Imran is alive this increases pressure for his well-being ninadsheth (@ninadsheth) November 26, 2025

Why the secrecy? Because the regime led by Asim Munir and Shehbaz Sharif fears even a 30-second clip of Imran Khan will ignite the streets. His support base is massive, and the establishment knows it. When youre scared of showing a mans face, it means something is very wrong," Indian filmmaker Abhilash Badli wrote on X.

Why the secrecy?Because the regime led by Asim Munir and Shehbaz Sharif fears even a 30-second clip of Imran Khan will ignite the streets.His support base is massive, and the establishment knows it.When youre scared of showing a mans face, it means something is very wrong. Abhilash Badli (@AbhilashBadli) November 26, 2025

Where Things Stand Now

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

The standoff between Imran Khan and Asim Munir has moved far beyond a dispute between two individuals. The prolonged isolation of the former prime minister, the lack of clarity around his well-being, and the expansion of military authority raise questions about transparency and political inclusion.

As Pakistan confronts economic pressures, internal security challenges and shifting regional dynamics, the unresolved feud between its most influential military leader and its most recognisable political figure continues to drive national uncertainty.

About the Author Karishma Jain Karishma Jain, Chief Sub Editor at News18.com, writes and edits opinion pieces on a variety of subjects, including Indian politics and policy, culture and the arts, technology and social change. Follo... Read More

First Published: November 28, 2025, 17:10 IST

News explainers It's Personal: Why Asim Munir And Imran Khan Are Locked In Hostility

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
UK YouTuber Tests North Korean Smartphones, Finds '3 Idiots' And Terrifying Censorship

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 19:19 IST

MrWhosetheboss recently got access to two smuggled smartphones from North Korea. What he discovered will spook you.

YouTuber MrWhosetheboss gained access to two North Korean smartphones. What he discovered on them was truly disturbing. (YouTube screengrab)

MrWhosetheboss, a YouTube channel run by Indian-origin UK content creator Arun Maini, enjoys hands-on some of the quirkiest tech products on Earth. From reviewing the most expensive smartphone brand to bulk-testing luxury tech to trying out Kickstarter products to even experiencing the cheapest tech available to purchase on the Internet, he has done it all. Mrwhosetheboss is considered one of the likeable tech YouTubers in the scene: once camera-shy, Arun built a YouTube tech empire that boasts of 22 million subscribers.

Its safe to say that when Arun stumbled upon two North Korean smartphones and decided to review" them in his most recent upload, his fans were deeply concerned about his safety.

Recommended Stories

North Korea

22-year-old US student Otto Warmbier was detained in North Korea after being accused of stealing a propaganda poster. Warmbier was imprisoned for over a year, serving hard labour for his alleged crime against the state. When the US student was finally returned to the US, he arrived in a state of coma. A few days later, he passed away. Doctors ruled a severe neurological injury that led to his demise.

North Korea is the worlds most totalitarian state. Ruled by one family with absolute power for three generations, the government controls its citizens in a manner that could only be described as dystopian. Except, it is the reality of the North Korean citizens.

The government controls what its citizens read, eat, or watch. There is no Internet or access to the outside world. The TV has channels that only show government propaganda. The kids from a young age are taught about the greatness of their supreme leader, that he cannot do any wrong. As millions of North Koreans live in abject poverty daily, the country doesnt shy away from flaunting its nuclear dominance.

The defectors, who successfully escaped from North Korea, have often described in interviews that they grew up believing the world outside their own country is in shambles.

Timothy Cho, a North Korean defector, described North Korea as a prison country". Having a similar haircut as their supreme leader, wearing jeans or watching smuggled movies or shows could be the end of a North Korean, in a public execution, no less.

So when Arun of MrWhosetheboss gained access to two smartphones assembled by the North Korean state, the publics immediate reaction was one of worry for the YouTubers well-being.

The Viral Review

In a review video titled Testing North Koreas illegal smartphones" that has already racked up 7 million views since it was uploaded, Arun exposes the extreme surveillance and censorship done by the government to monitor every single action performed by its citizens on their personal" devices.

Also Read: What Is Rickrolling And How It Is Still An Effective Prank In 2025

Arun was armed with two Android phones, one being a low-end model and the other a high-end flagship. The YouTuber then demonstrated the extreme levels of censorship that were a feature the citizens couldnt escape.

The Incredible Censorship

In his review video, Arun demonstrated that when a user typed in South Korea", the smartphone autocorrected to puppet state". He also confirmed that the phones did not connect to the Internet but to an intranet that displayed the governments propaganda websites. Incredibly, the phones did have apps that technically worked. Some of these apps consisted of movies from Russia and India. Arun discovered 3 Idiots, a popular Indian movie, on the devices.

A total censorship was baked into the operating system itself and enforced through automatic screenshots the phone took every few minutes. These captured everything the user did, building a permanent record of daily habits and activity that users were powerless to delete.

Hes Safe

I should get out of this country asap," Arun wrote on his X account the previous week before mysteriously vanishing for a few days.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

made it back to the UK safe!!seriously appreciate all the concern, I got pretty spooked myself ngl  back to tech videos soon  pic.twitter.com/9r581L9Yrf  Arun Maini (@Mrwhosetheboss) November 27, 2025

In a post made on Thursday, Arun revealed he was back in the UK and feeling spooked after releasing his controversial review video.

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 28, 2025, 19:19 IST

News explainers UK YouTuber Tests North Korean Smartphones, Finds '3 Idiots' And Terrifying Censorship

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Accused, Who Allegedly Raped A 6-Year-Old Girl In MP, Shot During Escape Bid

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 09:27 IST

The accused, identified as Salman, attempted to escape by snatching the sub-inspector's gun and firing at the police.

Bhopal Police foil accused's escape attempt in encounter. (Representative Image)

Salman, the accused in the six-year-old girl rape case, was injured after he tried to escape the police custody by seizing a sub-inspectors gun and firing at the police.

The accused, while he was being transported to Raisen by the Goharganj police, the vehicle carrying him suffered a puncture near Kirat Nagar village. During this halt, Salman attempted to escape, which forced the police to conduct a short encounter to prevent his flight.

Recommended Stories

During the exchange, the accused sustained a gunshot wound in the leg. He was then immediately rushed to the hospital where he is reciving treatment.

Informing about the incident, Sub-Divisional Officer of Police (SDOP) Obedullaganj, Sheela Surana, said, He was taken into police custody and was being taken to Gouharganj. During this time, our vehicle suddenly got punctured. He snatched our sub-inspectors gun, started running, and fired at them."

Alleged rape case of a 6-year-old girl in Goharganj | Ashutosh Gupta, SP Raisen, says, Salman (accused) was arrested from the Gandhinagar area and was being taken to Raisen. Meanwhile, the police vehicle broke down in the Kiratnagar village area near Bhojpur. Salman attempted to ANI (@ANI) November 28, 2025

Providing details about the operation, SDOP Surana assured that the accused would be brought to justice.

On November 21, a six-year-old girl in Goharganj was playing outside her home when the accused, Salman Khan (alias Nazar), enticed her with chocolates. He then took her to a nearby forest where he sexually assaulted her.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

The girl was discovered in the forest close to her home and was promptly taken to a hospital.

Following the incident, hundreds of locals gathered on Wednesday, staging a large protest demanding swift 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

Location : Madhya Pradesh, India, India

First Published: November 28, 2025, 09:27 IST

News india Accused, Who Allegedly Raped A 6-Year-Old Girl In MP, Shot During Escape Bid

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Andhra Pradesh Tourism Plans Dolphin Watching And Jungle Safari To Boost Global Appeal

Curated By :

Local18

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 15:22 IST

Two projects, one in Visakhapatnams Rushikonda coast and another in Maredumillis forests, are being designed for immersive wildlife experiences without harming the ecosystem

As per the current plan, boats will take tourists 1.5 to 2 km into the ocean between 7 and 8 am, when dolphins are most active. (Getty Images)

Andhra Pradesh, known for its long coastline, dense forests, and natural beauty, is preparing to reinvent its tourism experience with unique, nature-based attractions. The new state government has directed officials to develop innovative projects that can position the state as a global eco-tourism destination.

Two pilot projects, one in Visakhapatnams Rushikonda coast and another in Maredumillis lush forest region, are being designed to offer immersive wildlife experiences without harming the ecosystem.

Recommended Stories

Jungle Safari In Maredumilli

Maredumilli forest, located in the Eastern Ghats, is one of Andhras most scenic and biodiverse regions. The area is home to thick forests, grasslands, rivers, and rich wildlife, making it ideal for eco-tourism.

A safari once existed here, but was discontinued due to poor management and infrastructure gaps. The government now plans to revive it as a full-fledged, professionally managed jungle safari over roughly 60 acres, using protected enclosures and designated vehicle routes to ensure visitor safety and wildlife preservation.

The idea is to let tourists experience wild animals, birds, and local flora in their natural surroundings, without disturbing the forest. Cafes and rest areas will be set up on the outskirts of the safari zone, providing refreshments while supporting employment and entrepreneurship for local communities, including tribal residents.

This would be the first major wildlife safari experience in Andhra Pradesh, similar to those in Karnatakas Kabini, Maharashtras Tadoba, or Madhya Pradeshs Kanha.

Dolphin-Watching Tours At Rushikonda Beach

While Maredumilli focuses on forests, Visakhapatnams coastline will showcase marine life. The government plans to launch guided dolphin-watching tours from Rushikonda Beach, where dolphins are naturally spotted during specific months.

As per the current plan, boats will take tourists 1.5 to 2 km into the ocean between 7 and 8 am, when dolphins are most active. Visitors will get a chance to watch pods of dolphins swimming, leaping, and occasionally approaching boats  an experience popular in coastal destinations like Goa, Kerala, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives.

To enhance the tourist experience, temporary beachfront tents, food stalls, and rest zones are planned. The proposal also includes creating a small artificial tidal pond near the shore where fish and crabs will be bred. Tourists will be allowed to try live catch" experiences and prepare their own freshly caught seafood, giving it a recreational and culinary dimension.

Community-Based Tourism & Eco-Employment

A key focus of both projects is community involvement. Locals are expected to receive training in hospitality, wildlife protection, boating safety, eco-guiding, and food services. This would help create sustainable jobs for local youth, fishermen, tribal families, and forest dwellers, while promoting responsible tourism.

Discussions are reportedly underway with a Kakinada-based company to manage operations and provide professional support.

Andhra Pradeshs Larger Tourism Vision

Andhra Pradesh has long been known for temples, beaches, and pilgrimages, not so much for wildlife or marine tourism. With Maredumilli safari and Rushikonda dolphin tours, officials aim to change that perception and position Visakhapatnam as an international nature-tourism hub.

If implemented successfully, these projects could help Andhra Pradesh compete with states like Kerala, Karnataka, and Goa, attracting both domestic and foreign travellers seeking nature-based experiences.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

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 28, 2025, 15:22 IST

News india Andhra Pradesh Tourism Plans Dolphin Watching And Jungle Safari To Boost Global Appeal

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Another BLO Dies Of 'Heart Attack' In Gujarat: Family & Colleagues Blame SIR Stress, Cops Deny Link

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 22:40 IST

Dineshkumar Ravals family and colleagues have alleged that his death occurred around 2.30 am while he was engaged in the mandatory online uploading process for the SIR exercise

This fatality is the latest in a troubling series of deaths reported among BLOs in Gujarat and other states performing the SIR duty. (Representational pic: News18)

Another incident of a booth-level officer (BLO) death under tragic circumstances has been reported in Gujarat, intensifying the growing controversy surrounding the heavy workload of the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls. Dineshkumar Raval (50), the principal of the Government Primary Girls School in Sudasana village of Satlasana taluka, Mehsana district, died in the early hours of Friday due to a heart attack.

Ravals family and colleagues have alleged that his death occurred around 2.30 am while he was actively engaged in the mandatory online uploading process for the SIR exercise. The Akhil Bhartiya Rashtriya Shaikshik Mahasangh, a teachers organisation, stated that Raval was compelled to work late into the nighta pattern reported by many BLOsbecause the online server frequently remains non-functional during the day, forcing the crucial data entry to be done in the midnight hours.

Recommended Stories

A long-serving teacher at the Sudasana school since 2001 and a BLO for over 15 years, Ravals colleagues testified that despite completing a significant portion of his verification work, he had been deprived of proper sleep since the SIR exercise began. His co-worker, Govindsinh Barad, confirmed that Raval woke up his family around 2.30 am complaining of chest pain, and although he was rushed to Vadnagar Civil Hospital, he was declared dead.

This fatality is the latest in a troubling series of deaths reported among BLOs in Gujarat and other states performing the SIR duty. Just days earlier, another schoolteacher, Rameshbhai Parmar in Kheda district, died of a heart attack, with his family citing excessive work pressure". Furthermore, Arvind Vadher, a teacher in the Gir Somnath district, allegedly died by suicide, leaving behind a note blaming the mental stress and exhaustion" from the SIR work.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

While the local police in Satlasana confirmed the cause of death as a heart attack based on the post-mortem report and denied any official complaint of work-related stress from the family, opposition parties and teachers unions have been vocal. They allege that the government and Election Commission are imposing an inhuman workload" on teachers who must manage both their regular teaching duties and the time-sensitive, often complex, SIR tasks, leading to acute mental and physical distress.

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 28, 2025, 22:38 IST

News india Another BLO Dies Of 'Heart Attack' In Gujarat: Family & Colleagues Blame SIR Stress, Cops Deny Link

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
CNN-News18 Indian Of The Year: Rauf Wani And Sajjad Bhat Honoured For Heroic Pahalgam Rescue

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 22:09 IST

Rauf Wani and Sajjad Bhat's selfless actions in the face of grave danger saved numerous lives and provided comfort amid a scene of carnage

Wani, aged 39, and Bhat, 31, were among the first civilians to reach the scene in Pahalgam after receiving an urgent distress message. Image: Screengrab/News18

The CNN-News18 Indian of the Year awards, celebrating the nations most impactful individuals, bestowed the prestigious Braveheart Indians Award on Friday upon two ordinary men from Kashmir, Rauf Wani and Sajjad Ahmad Bhat, for their extraordinary heroism during the devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgams Baisaran Valley this year. Their selfless actions in the face of grave danger saved numerous lives and provided comfort amid a scene of carnage.

The award recognises their courage during the horrific terror strike that occurred on April 22, 2025, at the picturesque Baisaran hilltop, a popular tourist destination. The brutal attack resulted in the death of approximately 26 tourists and local personnel, shocking the entire nation. While panic and confusion reigned, the instinct of two local menRauf Wani (also known as Waheed Ahmad Wani, President of the Pahalgam Pony Association) and Sajjad Ahmad Bhat (a shawl hawker and Wanis brother-in-law)was to rush towards the danger.

Recommended Stories

Wani, aged 39, and Bhat, 31, were among the first civilians to reach the scene after receiving an urgent distress message. Despite the lingering sound of gunfire and the horrifying sight of bodies and bloodshed, they disregarded personal safety. Bhat, who was only weeks away from his own wedding, famously told Wani, Life and death are in Allahs hands. If it is meant to happen, it can happen even at home."

Their heroic actions involved navigating a chaotic and dangerous environment to provide immediate relief. They distributed water to the injured, comforted distressed families, and personally carried wounded tourists on their backs across the difficult terrain to safety and the nearest hospitals. Bhat, in particular, was widely hailed for carrying an injured tourist single-handedly.

The men later recounted the sheer terror of the scene, with grieving wives and children wailing over their loved ones. In the initial panic, Wani and Bhat were even briefly mistaken for attackers until locals recognised Wani. Their primary motivation was an unwavering commitment to humanity and the traditional Kashmiri value of hospitality, viewing the tourists as their guests".

The CNN-News18 Indian of the Year award, chosen by an elite jury including respected figures like Sanjiv Goenka, DY Chandrachud, and Prasoon Joshi, celebrates individuals whose achievements inspire millions. By conferring the Braveheart Indians Award on Wani and Bhat, the jury highlighted their actions as a powerful demonstration of Kashmiriyatthe spirit of resilience, compassion, and unitythat stood tall against the perpetrators of violence. Their story serves as a poignant reminder that true heroism often emerges from ordinary citizens who choose courage over fear.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

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 28, 2025, 22:05 IST

News india CNN-News18 Indian Of The Year: Rauf Wani And Sajjad Bhat Honoured For Heroic Pahalgam Rescue

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Delhi Air Quality Stays 'Very Poor' At 384, Key Areas Breach 400 Mark

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 10:07 IST

The air quality remained in the 'severe' range for several areas, with Mundka recording the highest pollution level in the city with an AQI of 436.

An image of New Delhi shrouded in smog amid deteriorating air quality. (Image: PTI)

Delhiites woke up to toxic air on Friday as the citys overall Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 384, placing it in the very poor category, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

The air quality remained in the severe range for several areas, with Mundka recording the highest pollution level in the city with an AQI of 436, followed closely by Rohini at 432. Anand Vihar also witnessed a layer of toxic smog blankets with AQI at 408 and Jahangirpuri at 420.

Recommended Stories

Meanwhile, Noida reported an AQI of 404, falling into the severe category, while Greater Noida and Ghaziabad recorded very poor air quality with AQI of 377 and 350, respectively.

19 out of 39 stations in Delhi reported AQI of over 400 at 8:00 am, according to CPCB. Punjabi Bagh recorded AQI of 417, RK Puram at 418, Wazirpur at 416 and Narela at 407. Other prominent areas, including Chandni Chowk (408), Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium (401), and Burari Crossing (403), also fell under the severe category.

According to CPCB standards, an AQI between 0 and 50 is considered good, 51-100 satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor and 401-500 severe.

The worsening air quality seemed to degrade, with no sign of relief visible. Delhi on Thursday, recorded an AQI of 377. The 24-hour average AQI settled at 377 on Thursday, compared to 327 on Wednesday, 352 on Tuesday and 382 on Monday.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

As per the data from the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorologys Decision Support System, vehicular emissions remained the largest contributor to Delhis pollution on Thursday at 19.5 per cent. Ghaziabad contributed 8.2 per cent, Baghpat 7.3 per cent, while stubble burning accounted for 0.7 per cent.

Meanwhile, schools across Delhi fully resumed physical classes on Thursday after the Commission for Air Quality Management lifted the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage-3 restrictions.

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 28, 2025, 09:48 IST

News india Delhi Air Quality Stays 'Very Poor' At 384, Key Areas Breach 400 Mark

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Delhi Crime Branch Nabs Man Linked To Kapil Sharmas Canada Cafe Shooting Case

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 11:44 IST

The first shooting at his cafe was reported by news outlets shortly after it happened in early July. Later, the cafe was attacked again on August 7 and October 16.

Actor-comedian Kapil Sharma's Kaps Cafe in Canada's Surrey was targeted thrice since its opening in July. (Image: PTI/File)

The Delhi Police Crime Branch has arrested a man linked to firing at comedian Kapil Sharmas restaurant in Canada. The accused, identified as Bandhu Man Singh, is known to be a close associate of gangster Goldy Dhillon and is already wanted in several criminal cases.

During the arrest, police recovered a Chinese-made pistol along with cartridges from him. Investigators say his role in the alleged conspiracy is now being probed further.

Recommended Stories

Recently on Wednesday Kapil Sharma recalled the firings at his cafe in Canada and said that the police might not have the power to control such incidents.

Sharma said the repeated attacks may be linked to Canadian regulations, but each incident ended up drawing even more attention to his cafe.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Speaking about at the event and said he has never felt so unsafe in Mumbai or even India. I never felt unsafe in Mumbai or in our country. There is no other city like Mumbai, and we all know how efficient the Mumbai Police is," he said.

Kaps Cafe, which began operations in Surrey, British Columbia, in July, faced its first attack on July 10, followed by two more on August 7 and October 16. No injuries were reported, and so far, no organisation has taken responsibility for the shootings.

About the Author Anushka Vats Anushka Vats is a Sub-Editor at News18.com with a passion for storytelling and a curiosity that extends beyond the newsroom. She covers both national and international news. For more stories, you can ... Read More

First Published: November 28, 2025, 11:26 IST

News india Delhi Crime Branch Nabs Man Linked To Kapil Sharmas Canada Cafe Shooting Case

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Dont Threaten BLOs: EC Rebuts TMCs Claims, Appoints Special Roll Observer For Bengal SIR

Reported By :

News18.com Edited By: Manjiri Joshi



Last Updated: December 01, 2025, 12:38 IST

ECI vs Mamata on Bengal SIR: While sources said ECI gave a point-by-point rebuttal of all allegations to TMCs 10-member delegation, Abhishek Banerjee termed it outright lies

The ECI requested the TMC to give claims and objections after December 9, when the draft list is out. (File)

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) versus Election Commission of Indias (ECI) war over the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal intensified further on Friday after the poll bodys meeting with the party delegation.

While sources said the ECI gave a point-by-point rebuttal of all allegations raised by the TMC to the partys 10-member delegation, the TMC termed it outright lies".

Recommended Stories

The ECI also appointed a special roll observer for the state. The ECI also told the TMC delegation not to influence or threaten the BLOs regarding dead, shifted and duplicate voters, sources added.

The ECI requested the TMC delegation to give claims and objections after December 9, when the draft list is shared with them, sources said.

Till then, they have been requested to refrain from interfering with the independent functioning of Booth Level Officers (BLO), Electoral Registration Officers (ERO) and District Election Officers (DEO) who are State Government employees who have been deputed to election-related works.

Last week, Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee had expressed serious concerns over the ongoing SIR in the state, urging the Election Commission to intervene. With the relentless questions and allegations related to deaths of Booth Level Officers (BLOs), the ECI had agreed to meet a delegation from the TMC.

The Election Commission is deliberately planting selective leaks to falsely claim that they have provided a point-by-point rebuttal to the issues raised by the AITC delegation today. These assertions are not just misleading, they are OUTRIGHT LIES. If the EC truly has nothing to pic.twitter.com/1s2VvIM3dr Abhishek Banerjee (@abhishekaitc) November 28, 2025

The ECs response: What sources say

The ECI told the TMC delegation that it was very strange that the enhanced honorarium approved by the poll body has not yet been disbursed by the State Government. This should be done without any further delay.

Banerjee had written a letter questioning why they wanted to create booth inside buildings. The ECI rejected the question. The poll body also told the TMC delegation that the preparation of electoral rolls as well as conduct of elections in as per the Constitution and Electoral law and that the TMC should abide by it.

Based on recent incidents related to the breach of security at the office of CEO WB, the ECI has directed the office to be shifted to a security appropriate location. The ECI has also directed Kolkata Police Commissioner to ensure complete security of the existing as well as the new office of CEO WB.

The ECIs reminder

The Election Commission reminded the Chief Electoral Officer, West Bengal, of earlier instructions directing completion of the rationalisation of polling stations by 4 December 2025 under the Special Intensive Revision (SIR).

They are:

All States and UTs were instructed (via letter dated 22 September 2023) to conduct a detailed survey during the rationalisation exercise to identify urban areas with group housing societies, high-rise buildings, and slum clusters, and to examine availability of suitable ground-floor rooms such as community halls or school rooms for use as polling stations.

If adequate facilities exist within such residential premises, efforts should be made to establish polling stations there, provided they meet prescribed norms. The same survey requirement applies to rapidly expanding urban and semi-urban areas.

After identifying potential buildings, a senior officer designated by the District Election Officer must physically verify each site to ensure it is in good condition and meets Assured Minimum Facilities (AMF) requirements.

Once suitable buildings are confirmed, rationalisation of existing polling stations for residents of these societies or slum clusters must follow the norm of a maximum of 1,200 electors per polling station.

Any shifting or creation of polling stations must follow due procedure as per the Manual on Polling Stations 2020. Draft lists must be prepared in consultation with political parties before being sent for Commission approval.District Election Officers have been instructed to ensure strict compliance with all directives.

TMC, BJP react

TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee strongly refuted ECIs claims. The Election Commission is deliberately planting selective leaks to falsely claim that they have provided a point-by-point rebuttal to the issues raised by the AITC delegation today. These assertions are not just misleading, they are OUTRIGHT LIES. If the EC truly has nothing to hide and actually believes in transparency, then instead of hiding behind motivated leaks, it must immediately release the full CCTV footage and every piece of evidence it claims to possess. Anything less only exposes their bad faith and raises serious questions about their intent," he said in a post on X.

And let me add this clearly: A few hours will always be too short , take as many days as you want to answer the five basic questions we placed before you. We have ENOUGH DIGITAL EVIDENCE to prove how your narrative is being distorted through planted, fabricated leaks. So THINK TWICE before you choose to pick a fight with West Bengal and @AITCofficial," he further wrote.

Meanwhile, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and West Bengal LoP Suvendu Adhikari said, A 10-member delegation had gone to clasp the feetHere in West Bengal, she (referring to CM Mamata Banerjee) gives big speeches and threatens Gyanesh Kumar, the Election Commission, and the entire body of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC)."

VIDEO | Kolkata: On the TMC delegation meeting CEC Gyanesh Kumar, BJP leader and West Bengal LoP Suvendu Adhikari (@SuvenduWB) said:"A 10-member delegation had gone to clasp the feet. Here in West Bengal, she (referring to CM Mamata Banerjee) gives big speeches and threatens pic.twitter.com/Cqqwg7HpIw  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) November 28, 2025

ECI Vs TMC

The ECIs approval for a meeting came after a request submitted by TMC MP Derek OBrien on November 23. The TMC had in a post on X said, Under the guidance of Smt. @MamataOfficial and Shri @abhishekaitc, we have officially submitted the names of our 10-member delegation to the Election Commission. This delegation will present to @ECISVEEP our strong concerns regarding ongoing electoral irregularities and the urgent need to safeguard democratic rights. We remain fully committed to protecting every voter, ensuring transparency, and resisting all attempts to distort or manipulate the electoral process."

Under the guidance of Smt. @MamataOfficial and Shri @abhishekaitc, we have officially submitted the names of our 10-member delegation to the Election Commission.This delegation will present to @ECISVEEP our strong concerns regarding ongoing electoral irregularities and the pic.twitter.com/pJg0KS1TMu  All India Trinamool Congress (@AITCofficial) November 25, 2025

Sharing her previous letter on X addressed to CEC Gyanesh Kumar, Banerjee had described the SIR exercise as unplanned, chaotic and dangerous", highlighting gaps in training, lack of clarity on documentation, and the impossibility of meeting voters amidst their work schedules.

Banerjee alleged critical gaps in training, lack of clarity on mandatory documentation and the near-impossibility of meeting voters in the midst of their livelihood schedules have made the exercise structurally unsound".

The Chief Minister had expressed serious concerns about the ongoing SIR, citing inadequate planning, insufficient training, and unrealistic timelines that are compromising the processs credibility". CM Banerjee had highlighted the excessive workload and pressure on Booth Level Officers (BLOs), who are struggling with online data entry, server issues, and inadequate training, risking inaccurate voter data.

Sharing herewith my latest letter to the Chief Election Commissioner, articulating my serious concerns in respect of the ongoing SIR. pic.twitter.com/7cbOOQl7Ax Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) November 21, 2025

The Chief Minister pointed out that the SIR coincides with peak agricultural season, making it difficult for farmers and labourers to participate. The human cost of this mismanagement is now unbearable. Yesterday, an anganwadi worker working as a BLO in Mal, Jalpaiguri, died by suicide, reportedly due to SIR-related pressure. Several others have died since this process started. A revision that used to take three years is now being forced into three months, putting BLOs and officials in terrible working conditions and making ordinary people live in fear and uncertainty," she had said.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Banerjee had requested the ECI to intervene, halt the exercise, provide support, and reassess the methodology and timelines to protect electoral integrity and the democratic framework.

With Agency Inputs

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

First Published: November 28, 2025, 19:38 IST

News india Dont Threaten BLOs: EC Rebuts TMCs Claims, Appoints Special Roll Observer For Bengal SIR

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
ED Arrests WinZO Founders Over Alleged Fraud, Hidden Gaming Algorithm And Offshore Money Transfer

Reported By :

CNN-News18

Last Updated: November 29, 2025, 11:48 IST

The action comes after searches at the companys office and homes on 18 November 2025 under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

Gaming platform WinZO

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) arrested gaming-platform WinZO co-founders Saumya Singh Rathore and Pavaan Nanda in a money laundering case linked to multiple cheating complaints filed across the country.

The action comes after searches at the companys office and homes on 18 November 2025 under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

Recommended Stories

According to the ED, the case is based on several FIRs alleging cheating, blocking of user accounts, misuse of PAN details and financial losses to users.

Winzo, earlier known as Ticktok Skill Games Pvt. Ltd., launched in 2016 and runs the WINZO" gaming app, offering real-money games such as rummy, solitaire, ludo, poker and chess.

The company claims it stopped real-money games in India after the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025 came into force. It has more than 250 million registered users, largely from smaller towns and rural areas.

Hidden Algorithm Found

The ED said its search revealed the company used a concealed algorithm called PPP (Past Performance of Player) in real-money games.

Officials said the software matched live players against automated gameplay generated from past user profiles without informing them. Users whose profiles were used were also not told or asked for consent.

The agency said this system helped the company make about 177 crore in the past 14 months while causing losses to genuine players.

One user cited by investigators had played only one game in January 2025, but his profile was allegedly used for 32 games in March without his knowledge.

Restrictions On Withdrawals

The probe also found that Winzo imposed strict conditions on withdrawing money from in-app wallets. While users could deposit freely, they could withdraw only winnings."

Daily withdrawal limits depended on loyalty levels, with a maximum of around 99,000. ED said this forced users to keep playing to recover their own deposited money, increasing the risk of losses, especially because of the secret PPP algorithm.

The agency also alleged arbitrary blocking of user wallets. Winzos escrow account held about 43 crore marked as payable to users," which the ED said reflected widespread blockage of legitimate user funds.

Foreign Subsidiaries And Offshore Transfers

Winzo has three subsidiaries, including two abroadone in the US and one in Singapore. The ED said the foreign units were effectively managed from India, including daily operations and control of foreign bank accounts.

Investigators said the company diluted shares over time and routed funds to its US arm, where foreign bank accounts held around USD 55 million (489.9 crore) as of 22 November.

The agency also found an agreement to transfer intellectual property and a database of about 25 crore users, including KYC details, to the US entity after India banned certain real-money games.

Officials said this amounted to theft of user identity and an attempt to shift banned operations overseas, accessible through VPN.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Citing the risk of flight of directors and diversion of revenue abroad, the ED froze the companys bank accounts. Rathore and Nanda were arrested on 26 November 2025 and produced before a magistrate the same day.

On 27 November, a special court sent them to ED custody for 10 days, until 6 December.

About the Author Manoj Gupta Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18

First Published: November 28, 2025, 23:45 IST

News india ED Arrests WinZO Founders Over Alleged Fraud, Hidden Gaming Algorithm And Offshore Money Transfer

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Friend Secretly Takes Out Rs 50 Lakh Insurance Policy On UP Man, Caught Trying To Create Dummy At Fake Funeral

Curated By :

Translation Desk

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 14:46 IST

The men insisted on placing the shroud-covered 'body' directly on the pyre, avoiding questions about why it was wrapped so awkwardly

Rapid Read + Follow us On Google

Two Delhi-based businessmen, Kamal Somani and Ashish Khurana, were detained for attempting the Rs 50 lakh insurance scam by faking their friend's death. (AI-Generated Image)

Ganga ghats have seen enough tragedy to fill a library, but the spectacle that unfolded at a well-known cremation site in western Uttar Pradesh this week has left even seasoned locals shaking their heads. A quiet Thursday afternoon at Brijghat in Hapur district turned into a bizarre public theatre when mourners discovered that the body" laid out for cremation was not a human being at all, but a shop mannequin wrapped in a shroud.

Witnesses said four men arrived in an HR-registered i20 car, carrying themselves with the solemnity expected at a funeral. They purchased ghee, wood and other ritual items without attracting suspicion. Crematorium worker Nitin, who has guided countless families through the final rites, initially assumed this would be just another sorrow-laden afternoon by the river.

Recommended Stories

That illusion collapsed within minutes.

When the group laid the shrouded figure directly on the pyre, locals began to sense that something was amiss. Repeated requests to uncover the face of the deceased were deflected with evasive answers, fuelling further misgivings. As a crowd gathered and tensions rose, the shroud was finally pulled back. Instead of a lifeless human body, a plastic torso stared up at the onlookers.

Police were summoned at once. Two of the four men fled, but officers detained two Delhi-based garment traders, identified as Kamal Somani and Ashish Khurana. A search of their car unearthed two more mannequins, deepening the mystery and turning the ghatside confrontation into a case of alleged financial crime.

During questioning, investigators said, Somani admitted he was drowning in debt amounting to Rs 50 lakh. In what police describe as a calculated attempt to defraud an insurance company, he allegedly obtained personal documents belonging to a young acquaintance named Anshul and used them to secure a life insurance policy with Tata AIA worth the same amount, naming himself as the nominee. Premiums were paid regularly to avoid raising suspicion.

Officers said Somanis plan hinged on faking Anshuls death by staging a cremation with a mannequin, obtaining a death certificate and then filing an insurance claim. The mannequin, he reportedly told police, had been taken from his own clothing shop and wrapped hastily before being driven to the riverside.

Crematorium worker Nitin recounted that the group had appeared uneasy from the start, dodging basic questions about the identity of the deceased. When the mannequin was revealed, he immediately alerted authorities.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

As part of the verification process, police video-called Anshul using a mobile phone found at the scene. The young man appeared on screen and said he had been at his family home in Prayagraj for the past several days, unaware that his name had been dragged into a suspected fraud.

Inspector Manoj Balyan, who is leading the investigation, said a case has been registered against Somani and Khurana on charges of fraud, forgery and criminal conspiracy. A manhunt is underway for the two others who managed to escape.

Location : Uttar Pradesh, India, India

First Published: November 28, 2025, 14:46 IST

News india Friend Secretly Takes Out Rs 50 Lakh Insurance Policy On UP Man, Caught Trying To Create Dummy At Fake Funeral

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
'If It Comes To Our Sovereignty And Security...': Rajnath Singh Says India Won't Compromise

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 12:10 IST

Singh further stated that India has always believed in peace and dialogue, but said if it comes to our sovereignty and security, we will not compromise.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh (File photo)

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday highlighted Indias growing defence capacities and hailed the armed forces for its readiness to face neighbourhood challenges while contributing to regional stability. In addition to this, Singh reiterated that India believes in peace and dialogue, but asserted that it will always give a befitting reply when it comes to the sovereignty and the security of our country.

Speaking at the Chanakya Defence Dialogue in New Delhi, Singh said that today we are living through a period of deep geopolitical uncertainty and the power centers are shifting. New alignments are being tested, and the nature of conflict itself is evolving," he added.

Recommended Stories

India lives in a region where challenges emerge in many forms, terrorism crossing borders, support to extremist elements, attempts to alter the status quo, maritime pressures and even information warfare. These are complex situations that require clarity of purpose," the Defence Minister said.

Singh further stated that India has always believed in peace and dialogue, and remains committed to that approach. But let me say clearly, when it comes to our sovereignty and the security of our people, we do not compromise," the Defence Minister asserted.

Our armed forces have shown again and again that they are capable and ready. It is this blend of rest and firmness that allows us to manage our neighbourhood challenges while contributing to regional stability," he added.

The Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2025 commenced on Thursday in New Delhi, bringing together military leaders, global strategic experts, diplomats, industry leaders and young scholars.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Organised by the Indian Army, in collaboration with the Centre for Land Warfare Studies, the Dialogue centres on the national vision of Sashakt, Surakshit and Viksit Bharat.

It examines Indias security challenges and technological frontiers in an increasingly contested global landscape.

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 28, 2025, 12:10 IST

News india 'If It Comes To Our Sovereignty And Security...': Rajnath Singh Says India Won't Compromise

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
'If We Ask People Today...': Maharashtra Minister Dada Bhuse Projects Eknath Shinde As Next CM

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 12:27 IST

Maharashtra cabinet minister and senior Shiv Sena leader Dada Bhuse said that he was confident that party chief and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde would make a comeback as CM.

Maharashtra Miniter Dada Bhuse Projects Eknath Shinde As Next CM. (Photo: X)

Shiv Sena minister Dada Bhuse has expressed confidence that Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who he believes resides in the hearts of the people, will once again lead the state. Speaking at a rally for local body elections in Nandurbar on Wednesday, the School Education Minister stated, Even today, if you ask people who the chief minister is in their hearts, they will say it is Eknath ji Shinde."

Furthermore, Bhuse reassured the crowd, saying, Do not worry. Destiny will again see Eknath Shinde leading Maharashtra."

Recommended Stories

Bhuse praised Shindes dedication, claiming that as chief minister, he would meet people late into the night and work for 20-22 hours a day. His comments come amid tensions between the Shiv Sena and the BJP, both part of the ruling Mahayuti coalition, over the induction of each others leaders ahead of the local body elections.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Shinde served as chief minister from 2022 to 2024 after leading a revolt that caused the collapse of the Uddhav Thackeray-led Maha Vikas Aghadi government and a split in the Shiv Sena.

After the Mahayutis victory in the 2024 assembly polls, Devendra Fadnavis replaced Shinde, who had to settle for the position of deputy chief minister.

First Published: November 28, 2025, 12:12 IST

News india 'If We Ask People Today...': Maharashtra Minister Dada Bhuse Projects Eknath Shinde As Next CM

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
India Reaches Major Power Status On Asia Power Index After Operation Sindoor, Ranks Third Globally

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 18:05 IST

Indias power in Asia continues to grow steadily, and in 2025 passed the threshold defined by the Asia Power Index for major power status

Rapid Read + Follow us On Google

Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a visit at the Adampur air base in Punjab on May 13 after Operation Sindoor.

Spurred by economic growth and military capability based on its performance in Operation Sindoor, India has reached major power status on the Asia Power Index-2025, Australia-based think tank Lowy Institute said on Friday.

The top five countries of 2025 in terms of overall power are the United States, China, India, Japan and Russia. Australia dropped one place in this years ranking, to sixth. While the United States remains the most powerful country in Asia, its power has fallen to the lowest level since the inception of the index in 2018.

Recommended Stories

Indias power in Asia continues to grow steadily, and in 2025, passed the threshold defined by the Asia Power Index for major power status. India has widened its small lead over Japan with its score rising by 0.9 points in 2025. It is ranked third with a score of 40, behind the US (80.4) and China (73.5). Notably, India remains on the cusp of being a military superpower if it crosses the score of 40.

The think tank said that Indias economic and military capability have both increased. Its economy has continued to grow strongly and made small gains in terms of its geopolitical relevance  defined in terms of international leverage, connectivity, and technology. Indias military capability has also improved steadily," it said.

Operation Sindoor was carried out in May 2025, when India struck nine terror bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir. Its missile strikes on key air bases prompted Pakistani DGMO to reach out to India for ceasefire. For the most part, these gains were from improved expert appraisals of its capability, which were likely influenced by Indias performance in Operation Sindoor, launched in May 2025, which added to Indias recent combat experience," it said.

Notably, India also saw its first-ever rise in rankings for economic relationships since the Index began in 2018.

While its trade ties across Asia remain relatively weak, India overtook China as the second-largest destination for inward investment after the United States, based on cumulative flows over a decade. The shift, according to the assessment, was driven by global supply-chain diversification and Indias growing attractiveness as an investment hub.

India also recorded a marginal improvement in diplomatic influence. The assessment attributed this to more frequent bilateral engagements and expert views suggesting an improvement in the quality of Indias diplomatic service.

Indias cultural influence saw another boost with increased movement of people, rising tourism flows and improved air connectivity strengthening the countrys presence across Asia.

The think tank, however, stated that Indias vast structural gap with China has grown even further. China continues to erode the United States advantage in military capability, has weathered Washingtons coercive economic policies, and has benefited from uncertainty about the Trump administrations approach to Asia, with its diplomatic influence reaching an all-time high for any Asia Power Index country.

NEW RESEARCH: The @LowyInstitute has today released the 2025 edition of the Asia Power Index, authored by @SusannahCPatton & @JackRSato, which measures resources and influence to rank the relative power of states in Asia. Explore the Asia Power Index: https://t.co/v541RMGRit pic.twitter.com/B7oJIRVd6y  The Lowy Institute (@LowyInstitute) November 25, 2025

Australia recorded a small decline as it struggled to match others economic and military resources. Benefiting from the support of authoritarian partners China and North Korea, Russia regained fifth place in the overall rankings.

The United States is losing ground in Asia, recording its lowest ever score in the 2025 Asia Power Index. China is gaining advantage, closing the gap with the United States to its narrowest margin since 2020. China is well placed to withstand coercive US economic policies. And it is successfully positioning itself as a reliable partner amid uncertainty about the US approach to Asia.

Moscows power in Asia is rebounding, with Fortress Russia having proved able to withstand the costs of war and sanctions. In 2025, Russias power in Asia was boosted by growing economic and defence partnerships with authoritarian partners North Korea and China.

Japans power in Asia remains steady, though it recorded negative results for all resource measures except military capability, where it recorded modest growth. Leadership churn in Tokyo has seen it lose altitude as a foreign policy leader in the Indo-Pacific.

Southeast Asian countries mostly recorded small improvements in their comprehensive power in 2025, but the picture was mixed. The 2025 ASEAN chair Malaysia enjoyed growing regional influence, but others, in particular Thailand, continue to be domestically preoccupied. The diplomacy of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto was focused more globally than regionally.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Australia faces a long-term challenge to maintain relative power in Asia. It slipped back below Russia in the 2025 Asia Power Index rankings. Its economic and military resources have declined relative to other countries, meaning it will need to work harder with what it has to maintain its regional influence, as per the assessment.

The seventh edition of the annual assessment, authored by Susannah Patton and Jack Sato, evaluates the power of 27 countries and territories across Asia, based on 131 indicators across eight thematic measures, including Military Capability and Defence Networks, Economic Capability and Relationships, Diplomatic and Cultural Influence, as well as Resilience and Future Resources. The annual Asia Power Index surveys countries as far west as Pakistan, as far north as Russia, and as far into the Pacific as Australia, New Zealand and the United States.

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 28, 2025, 17:15 IST

News india India Reaches Major Power Status On Asia Power Index After Operation Sindoor, Ranks Third Globally

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
India, Indonesia Push Defence Ties; BrahMos Talks Gather Pace

Reported By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 09:03 IST

Officials suggest that the BrahMos negotiations have now entered the final stage and that a formal announcement may not be far away.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh meets his Indonesian counterpart Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin. (X/@rajnathsingh)

India and Indonesia reviewed their defence partnership during the third Defence Ministers Dialogue held in New Delhi on Thursday. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met his Indonesian counterpart, Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, with discussions centred on strengthening bilateral defence cooperation and identifying new areas of partnership.

While there was no official mention of BrahMos in the statement, senior officials familiar with the matter indicated forward movement on the possible export of the missile system to Indonesia.

Recommended Stories

Rajnath Singh also gifted a model of the BrahMos missile to the Indonesian minister, a gesture seen as symbolic of the growing defence convergence between the two sides.

Indonesia has shown sustained interest in BrahMos, particularly for its maritime security requirements in the Malacca Strait, the Natuna region and the wider Indo-Pacific. Earlier discussions have explored a phased procurement plan, long-term maintenance support, and training modules for Indonesian personnel.

Officials suggest that the BrahMos negotiations have now entered the final stage and that a formal announcement may not be far away. The possible deal is also seen as part of wider defence industrial cooperation, with Indonesia exploring technology partnerships and maintenance ecosystems in India.

Both nations are also working to streamline defence procurement frameworks through a proposed joint committee, which will address certification, supply chain access and co-development pathways.

Beyond the missile talks, the two ministers discussed expanding military-to-military engagements, including joint exercises, professional training programmes and maritime security cooperation. Cyber security, information sharing, and maritime domain awareness in the Indian Ocean were highlighted as priority areas.

Both ministers expressed satisfaction with the dialogues outcomes and the need to continue high-level exchanges, practical cooperation, and structured management across multiple areas of defence and security, thereby contributing to peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region, the Defence Ministry said.

Delighted to meet the Indonesian Defence Minister General Retd. Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin in New Delhi. Our defence cooperation built on our commitment to maintain regional security has grown manifold during the recent years. During the deliberations today, we had a free and frank pic.twitter.com/AyBmoTXyvp Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) November 27, 2025

Indonesia had deployed a 352-member contingent to Indias Republic Day parade earlier this year. The latest meeting builds on that momentum and aligns with Indias broader push to scale up defence exports and strengthen security partnerships across the Indo-Pacific.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

If the BrahMos agreement is concluded, Indonesia will become the second international operator of the missile after the Philippines, marking another milestone in Indias emergence as a defence exporter and strategic actor in the region.

New Delhi also announced the gifting of horses and a ceremonial carriage to Indonesia from the Indian Armys Remount Veterinary Corps.

About the Author Akash Sharma Akash Sharma, Defence Correspondent, CNN-News 18, covers the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Railways. In addition, he also follows developments in the national capital. With an extensive experien... Read More

First Published: November 28, 2025, 09:03 IST

News india India, Indonesia Push Defence Ties; BrahMos Talks Gather Pace

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
'Parliament Can Alter 5-Year Term Through Amendment': Law Panel On 'One Nation One Election' Bills

Reported By :

CNN-News18 Edited By: Vani Mehrotra



Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 13:09 IST

The 23rd Law Commission has told the Joint Parliamentary Committee that Parliament can constitutionally amend the five-year term of legislatures to enable simultaneous elections.

A view of the Parliament House Complex (PTI)

The Parliament has the constitutional authority to alter the five-year term of the Lok Sabha and state assemblies through an amendment, the 23rd Law Commission has told the Joint Committee of Parliament (JPC) examining the simultaneous elections Bills.

In a detailed submission ahead of its scheduled briefing on December 4, the Commission has made it clear that the duration prescribed under Articles 83 and 172 is not immutable and can be changed to meet larger national objectives.

Recommended Stories

Setting out its stand unequivocally, the Law Commission told the panel, In our constitutional scheme, though the Parliament cannot, by ordinary legislation, reduce the term of Lok Sabha or State Assemblies because this duration is expressly entrenched in Articles 83 and 172, it would be incorrect to assume that the terms as provided in the Constitution cannot be altered, to meet a larger objective of public welfare."

The Law Commission is clearly of the opinion that Parliament can certainly do so by way of a constitutional amendment. This is what is proposed by the bill in question," it stated.

It further underscored that the Constitution itself provides flexibility in the functioning of legislatures, pointing to the provisions for early dissolution and extensions during emergencies.

According to the Commission, the Constitution itself provides flexibility in the matters of term of House by allowing premature dissolution as well as extension during emergencies, which shows that the five-year term is not an unalterable feature."

Framing its argument around public interest, the Law Commission said that synchronised elections, by altering or curtailing existing terms, would serve the broader national good.

One of the objects of simultaneous election by curtailment of the full term of five years is to provide maximum satisfaction of greater national interest with minimum waste or friction of the government accountability," it told the JPC.

Countering claims that the One Nation, One Election proposal would weaken democratic processes, the Commission said the opposite was true.

Far from undermining democracy, the proposed Bill aims to strengthen it by ensuring stability, reducing the constant drain of elections, and allowing governments to focus on governance," it stated.

It stressed that the synchronisation proposal preserves the electorates core democratic rights.

The proposed Bill does not take away the peoples right to periodic, free and fair elections, it only seeks to synchronise their timing. Since the matter of making a democratic choice is fully preserved, the proposed Bill does not violate the basic structure of the Constitution," it mentioned.

On state ratification, the Commission was categorical, stating that the amendments involved do not fall under the categories requiring approval from half the States.

The proposed amendment is not falling within the proviso to Article 368(2) of the Constitution and does not require state ratification."

It also dismissed concerns over potential excessive delegation of authority to the Election Commission of India (ECI).

The powers proposed to be given to the Election Commission of India for the purpose of simultaneous election in the proposed amendment are a natural extension of its extant powers, and there is no question of any excessive delegation to it."

Defending the proposals intent, the Commission said synchronised elections would avoid repetitive expenditure and governance interruptions.

What the proposed amendments seek to do is essentially to synchronise the elections, so that the country as a whole goes to election at one point of time in a cycle of five years and is saved from repeatedly spending its time, money and energy over elections."

Addressing concerns around the basic structure doctrine, the Commission maintained that objections lacked a basis.

Referring to judicial reasoning, it noted that while free and fair elections" form part of the basic structure, the assertion that the definition of midterm elections limits the plenary powers of the electorate and is thus against the doctrine of basic structure, is not substantiated."

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

The Law Commissions submission forms a crucial element of the JPCs ongoing examination of the simultaneous elections proposal.

ALSO READ | Amid Vande Mataram Row, Govt Mulls Discussion On National Song During Parliaments Winter Session

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 28, 2025, 11:07 IST

News india 'Parliament Can Alter 5-Year Term Through Amendment': Law Panel On 'One Nation One Election' Bills

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
'Naya Bharat Won't Bow Down, Our Sudarshan Chakra Will Destroy Enemies': PM Modi In Udupi

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 15:08 IST

In Udupi, PM Modi invoked the resolve of 'New Bharat' while citing Operation Sindoor, saying that India neither bows down nor backs away when protecting its citizens.

PM Narendra Modi addresses a gathering in Udupi (Video screengrab)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday invoked the strength and resolve of New Bharat" as he addressed the gathering at the Laksha Kantha Gita Parayana programme at Sri Krishna Matha in Udupi, Karnataka.

Talking of national security and referring to the Indian Air Forces S-400 air defence missile systems, the Prime Minister said, Humara Sudarshan Chakra dushman ko tabah karde (Our Sudarshan Chakra would destroy the enemies). We saw this in Operation Sindoor."

Recommended Stories

Earlier, when such terrorist attacks happened, the government used to do nothing. But this is New Bharat, it has not bowed down before anyone, and neither has it backed away when it comes to protecting its citizens," the Prime Minister added.

While the Sudarshana Chakra is a heavenly discus that represents divine wisdom, spiritual energy, and cosmic justice, the Indian Air Forces S-400 air defence missile systems, having similar qualities and the ability to destroy evil from a distance, have been nicknamed Sudarshan Chakra. The systems made their debut on the intervening night of May 7-8 to intercept aerial threats from Pakistan.

The Prime Minister arrived at the ancient Sri Krishna Matha after holding a roadshow in Udupi, where large crowds lined up to welcome him.

He then visited the Matha and participated in the Laksha Kantha Gita Parayana, a mass recitation that witnessed over one lakh people chanting verses from the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita in unison.

The participants included students, monks, scholars, and citizens from different walks of life.

Ahead of addressing the crowd, PM Modi inaugurated the Suvarna Teertha Mantapa, located in front of the Krishna sanctum, and dedicated the Kanaka Kavacha, the golden cover for the sacred Kanakana Kindi.

The window is revered as the spot from which Saint Kanakadasa is believed to have had divine darshan of Bhagwan Krishna.

Taking the stage, PM Modi expressed his emotional connection to the occasion.

Deeply honoured for the opportunity to be in the presence of the revered sages," he said.

Recalling his recent visit to Kurukshetra, he remarked, Three days ago, I was in the land of the Gita, Kurukshetra. Now today, coming to this land of the blessings of Lord Shri Krishna and the glory of Jagadguru Shri Madhvacharya ji is an opportunity of supreme satisfaction for me."

Highlighting the scale of the collective recitation, PM Modi noted, On this occasion today, when 1 lakh people recited verses from the Bhagavad Gita together, the people of the entire world have also witnessed the divine splendour of Indias thousands of years."

He added that the spiritual atmosphere had moved him deeply.

Being in the divine presence of Bhagwan Shri Krishna and experiencing the spiritual grace of the sacred verses of the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita fills me with a depth that words struggle to hold."

For me, this moment feels like receiving countless merits and boundless grace," he added.

The Prime Minister also asked his security personnel to collect paintings of him made by children present at the venue, acknowledging their affection.

Touching upon Ayodhya, he said, Ayodhya mein dharam dhwaj ki sthapna hui hai," and added that the whole country knows the importance of Udupi in Ram Mandir andolan."

PM Modi further underlined Udupis significance in shaping Indias political and administrative direction.

Udupi holds a special place for me for another reason as well. Udupi has been the land of action for the good governance model of the Jana Sangh and the BJP. Along with that, Udupi also laid the foundation of a new governance model," he said.

Calling for public participation in strengthening the economy, he said, We all have to say vocal for local."

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

The Prime Minister concluded that the teachings of the Gita guide not just individuals but also national policy, adding, The words of the Gita not only guide individuals but also shape the direction of the nations policies."

ALSO READ | PM Modi Says Gen Z Is Driving Indias Space & Tech Innovation

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 28, 2025, 13:11 IST

News india 'Naya Bharat Won't Bow Down, Our Sudarshan Chakra Will Destroy Enemies': PM Modi In Udupi

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Red Fort Blast To ED Raids On Medical Colleges: How Al-Falah Exposed Indias Sleeping Higher-Ed Watchdogs

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 08:00 IST

The Al-Falah episode is a reminder that the system entrusted with certifying credibility in higher learning has become almost incapable of identifying the worst possible red flags

The private university was running at least nine educational institutions that included streams like humanities, language, molecular science, engineering, and medical science. File pic/PTI

The arrest of Al-Falah Universitys owner-founder and the following crackdown on multiple medical colleges early this week should not shock anyone. Instead, what is really shocking is how Indias higher education bodies, University Grants Commission (UGC), National Medical Commission (NMC), and National Commission for Minority Educational Institutions (NCMEI), failed to see what was unfolding right under their noses. For years, higher education regulators and related authorities, which recognised Al-Falah University and allowed grants, have remained a lumbering bureaucracy. They were heavy on circulars, light on scrutiny, loud on regulation, and silent on the ground. There was no periodical scrutiny.

Recommended Stories

The Al-Falah episode is only the latest reminder that the system entrusted with certifying credibility in higher learning has become almost incapable of identifying the worst possible red flags.

Long before the blast, the signs were all there

The private university was running at least nine educational institutions that included streams like humanities, language, molecular science, engineering, and medical science. Authorisation for two of its schools expired at least two years ago. Al-Falah University has been show-caused" by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) for putting out misleading" information. However, the action came after the Red Fort road blast.

This shows that there was no monitoring on such a widely spread network of a private university, which is located kilometres away from the countrys capital. This case, if unearthed earlier, should itself have triggered a cascade of monitoring, documentation checks, and enforcement steps.

Instead, there was no due diligence, no verification, and no inquiry into how a deregistered institution continued to function, admit students, and issue degrees. The regulators never asked the basic questions, like when was the last time its team visited the campus? Who verified the records?

Indias intelligence infrastructure is already overstretched with political networks, overseas-funded operations, and an expanding population that is itself deeply diverse and resistant to being boxed into a single identity.

Yet, while the security establishment grapples with complexities, the education regulator appears to be functioning with a stunning lack of curiosity. The clip circulating on social media that triggered revulsion everywhere is only a symptom; the disease is the absence of a functioning verification architecture in Indias higher education sector.

A crafted campaign that buried red flags

This is not just a bureaucratic lapse. But, as the investigation progresses, an overwhelming leak-plant operation reveals itself. A system built to ensure quality and legality is instead providing convenient blind spots. The regulators have, over time, become a passive collector of paperwork rather than an active guardian of standards.

The commissions default mode is to trust declarations, not inspect realities. Its protocols are stuck in an era where affidavits and letters carried weight, even though modern educational frauds are digitally sophisticated, internally networked, and often politically camouflaged.

The Al-Falah case exposes the consequences. The institutions that should not exist continue to shape young lives, regulatory alerts vanish into files, security flags are ignored, and a parallel ecosystem flourishes in plain sight. The problem is not merely administrative; it is structural. A regulator that does not verify periodically cannot regulate.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

About the Author Madhuparna Das Madhuparna Das, Associate Editor (policy) at CNN News 18, has been in journalism for nearly 14 years. She has extensively been covering politics, policy, crime and internal security issues. She has co... Read More

First Published: November 28, 2025, 08:00 IST

News india Red Fort Blast To ED Raids On Medical Colleges: How Al-Falah Exposed Indias Sleeping Higher-Ed Watchdogs

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Siddaramaiah Posts Photos With Shivakumar Amid Karnataka CM Drama As Congress Suggests Alls Well

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 15:14 IST

Siddaramaiah posted photos with DK Shivakumar at a government event in Bengaluru amid renewed buzz over a possible leadership change in Karnataka.

Siddaramaiah posts photos with DK Shivakumar (Source: X)

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Friday sought to project unity within the states ruling party by posting photographs with Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on X, even as the political debate around a possible change of guard in the Congress government intensified.

In his post, Siddaramaiah highlighted their joint presence at the Department of Women and Child Welfares inauguration of the Suvarna Mahotsava" of the Integrated Child Development Scheme at Palace Grounds in Bengaluru.

Recommended Stories

The event also marked the celebration of Childrens Day and the presentation ceremony for World Senior Citizens Day awards.

The Chief Minister noted that they had launched the departments ambitious schemes as well as the Griha Lakshmi Sahakara App," adding that Shivakumar and other ministers were present.

The timing of the post, featuring the two top leaders side by side, comes as speculation continues over an alleged power-sharing agreement" between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar dating back to 2023, when the Congress returned to power in Karnataka.

Meanwhile, DK Shivakumar, talking to reporters, said he might visit Delhi for some pending work". He added that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is also expected to go to the national capital for the Delhi Assembly session.

The government in Karnataka reached its halfway mark on November 20, a milestone that has revived questions about whether the Chief Ministers post will change hands, a claim the party repeatedly denies but which continues to drive political chatter across the state.

Congress MLC BK Hariprasad attempted once again to quell the speculation, saying the leadership in Karnataka was not in turmoil.

There is no confusion, everybody has confidence in high command, they will take a call on every issue," he said, insisting that internal matters were firmly under control and that the party was united despite speculation.

Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, Karnataka Minister KH Muniyappa appealed to Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge and Sonia Gandhi for talks.

To resolve this, I appeal to party president Mallikarjun Kharge and Madam Sonia Gandhi to call them both, so that the government functions well. The Chief Minister and the Deputy Chief Minister should sit together and make a decision soon," he said.

The BJP, however, seized on the moment to intensify its criticism.

Party national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla described the situation as yet another episode in what he called an ongoing public feud within the ruling party.

The Congress party has now started fighting openly in public in Karnataka, and yet another episode has been added to this ongoing OTT series of Congress vs Congress in Karnataka," he said.

Referring to earlier comments and social media posts by both Shivakumar and Siddaramaiah, he added, First, DK Shivakumar has said that there is a secret deal about the Chief Ministership. Then DK Shivakumar tweeted that word power is world power"

Then, responding to that, Siddaramaiah says that the word has no meaning if it doesnt change the world Their words and their worlds are revolving around the chair, and INC has now come to mean I Need Chair, I Need Confusion."

Poonawalla further accused the Congress of focusing only on positions of power.

For the last two and a half years, their only priorities have been power, the chair, and leadership. They dont care about people, and therefore, people of Karnataka are facing a farmer crisis, an economic crisis, a law-and-order crisis, an infrastructure crisis, a traffic crisis, and a pothole crisis. For Congress, power is the priority, not people," he added.

From Guwahati, Congress leader Pawan Khera dismissed the allegations and rejected the idea that there was any internal fight.

There is no power tussle," he said, also brushing aside talk of the BJP moving a no-confidence motion against the Karnataka government. Let them (BJP) try what they have to. They lost the last election, and they will lose the next one too," he said.

THE WAR OF WORDS BETWEEN SIDDARAMAIAH AND SHIVAKUMAR

On Thursday, social media platform X witnessed a war of words between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar as the two faced off over keeping up a promise.

Amid an intensifying power tussle, Shivakumar insisted that word power is world power," prompting a witty repartee from Siddaramaiah, who said, A word is not power unless it betters the world for the people."

While Siddaramaiah is asserting that he would complete his term, Shivakumar wants to replace him to hold the coveted post as the Congress government completed half of its five-year term on November 20.

The mandate given by the people of Karnataka is not a moment, but a responsibility that lasts five full years," the Chief Minister made it clear in a post on X.

THE POWER TUSSLE BUZZ IN KARNATAKA

There was stiff competition between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar for the chief ministers post after the declaration of Assembly election results on 20 May 2023, and the Congress had managed to convince the latter and made him the Deputy CM.

There were some reports at the time that a compromise had been reached based on a rotational chief minister formula," according to which Shivakumar will become the chief minister after two-and-a-half years, but they have not been officially confirmed by the party.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

However, Siddaramaiah rejected these reports and asserted that he would be the Chief Minister for five years.

ALSO READ | Issues To Resolve, Good News Soon: Shivakumar Camp MLA On Karnataka Power Tussle Buzz

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 28, 2025, 14:56 IST

News india Siddaramaiah Posts Photos With Shivakumar Amid Karnataka CM Drama As Congress Suggests Alls Well

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Amid Vande Mataram Row, Govt Mulls Discussion On National Song During Parliament's Winter Session

Reported By :

CNN-News18 Edited By: Vani Mehrotra



Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 10:41 IST

The central government is considering a day-long parliamentary discussion on Vande Mataram during the Winter Session, marking the 150th anniversary of the national song.

A view of the Parliament (PTI)

The central government is considering a day-long discussion on Vande Mataram during the upcoming Winter Session of Parliament, which begins on December 1.

Top government sources indicated that the session will mark a historic reflection on the 150th anniversary of the song, emphasising its enduring significance in Indias cultural and nationalist ethos.

Recommended Stories

Officials said that the discussion would seek participation from all political parties, with both the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha chairs encouraging members to take part.

The government intends to highlight the relevance of Vande Mataram for the youth and its role in shaping the spirit of nationalism, noting that the song has retained its significance over decades, irrespective of political ideologies.

Sources added that reciting Vande Mataram at the end of every parliamentary session underscores its symbolic importance in Indias democratic tradition.

The move comes in the backdrop of the year-long nationwide celebrations commemorating 150 years of Vande Mataram, which were inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 7 in New Delhi.

Addressing the gathering, PM Modi had described Vande Mataram as not merely a word, it is a mantra, an energy, a dream, and a solemn resolve."

He emphasised that the song embodies devotion and spiritual dedication to India and connects Indians to their history, instils confidence in the present, and inspires courage for the future.

To mark the 150-year milestone, the government released a special commemorative coin and postage stamp dedicated to Vande Mataram.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the songs enduring role in Indias freedom struggle.

Amidst the growing relevance of the song, the Rajya Sabha Secretariat, on November 24, reminded members not to use slogans like Vande Mataram and Jai Hind inside or outside the House to maintain decorum, citing them as a breach of parliamentary etiquette.

Later, the Congress hit out at the BJP over the same, and said those who did not lose anything in the freedom movement and sided with the British have problems with slogans associated with the independence struggle.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

However, sources in the Rajya Sabha Secretariat were quoted by news agency PTI as saying that this was not the first time such an instruction had been issued.

A similar circular was released during the UPA-led government in November 2005, also emphasising that raising slogans like Jai Hind and Vande Mataram was inconsistent with parliamentary customs and etiquette.

First Published: November 28, 2025, 10:41 IST

News india Amid Vande Mataram Row, Govt Mulls Discussion On National Song During Parliament's Winter Session

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Vladimir Putin Will Be On State Visit To India On December 4-5, MEA Confirms

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 13:45 IST

Russian President Vladimir Putin will be in New Delhi for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit.

Russian President Vladimir Putin To Visit India from 04 - 05 December 2025.

Russian President Vladimir Putin will be on a state visit to India on December 4-5, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed on Friday. On the invitation of PM Modi, Putin will be in New Delhi for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit.

At the invitation of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, President of the Russian Federation H.E. Mr. Vladimir Putin will pay a State visit to India from 04  05 December 2025 for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit," MEAs statement read.

Recommended Stories

During the visit, Putin will also hold talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. President Droupadi Murmu will receive President Putin and host a banquet in his honour.

In a communique, MEA added, The forthcoming State Visit will provide an opportunity for the leadership of India and Russia to review progress in bilateral relations, set the vision for strengthening the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership and exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest."

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

The upcoming visit will mark Russian Presidents first to India since 2021. PM Modi met President Putin on September 1 this year in Tianjin, China, on the sidelines of the SCO Summit.

Kremlin has described Putins visit to India as a crucial moment for both nations. Russian state news agency TASS cited a Kremlin statement, The visit is of great importance, providing an opportunity to comprehensively discuss the extensive agenda of Russian-Indian relations within the particularly privileged strategic partnership in the political, trade, economic, scientific, technological, cultural, and humanitarian spheres, as well as to consider topical international and regional issues."

First Published: November 28, 2025, 13:14 IST

News india Vladimir Putin Will Be On State Visit To India On December 4-5, MEA Confirms

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Who Is Bandhu Maan Singh Sekhon, Man Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Kapil Sharmas Cafe Firing?

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 15:57 IST

The breakthrough came after Canadian authorities identified the vehicle used by the shooters who opened fire at Sharmas cafe earlier this year.

Gangster Bandhu Maan Singh Sekhon | File Image

The Delhi Police Crime Branch has arrested Bandhu Maan Singh Sekhon, a Canada-based gangster, for allegedly supplying the weapons and vehicles used in the firing incident at comedian Kapil Sharmas Kaps Cafe in Surrey, Canada.

While Sekhon is not accused of pulling the trigger himself, investigators say he played a key role in planning the attack.

Recommended Stories

The breakthrough came after Canadian authorities identified the vehicle used by the shooters who opened fire at Sharmas cafe earlier this year.

As the investigation progressed, Sekhon allegedly fled Canada and arrived in India in August.

Around the same time, the Delhi Police apprehended an arms-smuggling gang. During questioning, the arrested members claimed they had supplied weapons to Sekhon in Ludhiana.

This disclosure helped the Crime Branch trace his movements and ultimately arrest him.

A History Of Crime And Extremist Links

Police records reveal that Sekhon has multiple criminal cases registered against him. At the time of his arrest, officers recovered a high-end PX-3 Made in China" pistol and eight live cartridges.

According to Joint CP Crime Branch Surender Kumar, Sekhon first travelled to Canada in 2019 on an employment visa.

He worked at several places before allegedly coming into contact with extremist elements.

He went to jail in some cases and developed links with extremists there. After that, he began working with them," Kumar told ANI.

DCP Crime Branch Sanjeev Kumar Yadav added that Sekhons name had surfaced earlier in an arms-supply case.

After apprehending him, we learned that he is a Canada-based gangster involved in several firing and extortion cases there and was even arrested in Canada," Yadav said.

A video has also emerged showing Sekhon firing rapid rounds from a shotgun in a snowy location, believed to be in Canada.

In the clip, he is seen wearing a biker jacket and spectacles as he dangerously discharges the weapon while recording himself.

Links To Goldy Dhillon Gang

Investigators believe Sekhon was acting as a handler for the Goldy Dhillon gang, an IndiaCanada criminal syndicate.

Police are now probing how the attack on Kapil Sharmas cafe was planned and whether more members of the network were involved.

Three Attacks On Kapil Sharmas Kaps Cafe

Kapil Sharmas cafe in Surrey, British Columbia, which opened in July, has been targeted three times:

July 10  First firing incident

August 7  Second attack

October 16  Third shooting

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

All three attacks were carried out by unidentified assailants. No injuries were reported.

As the investigation deepens, Delhi Police and Canadian authorities are working to uncover the full extent of Sekhons involvement and the broader conspiracy behind the repeated assaults on the popular comedians establishment.

First Published: November 28, 2025, 15:57 IST

News india Who Is Bandhu Maan Singh Sekhon, Man Accused Of Supplying Weapons For Kapil Sharmas Cafe Firing?

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Concerts, Comedy And Carnivals: Events To Check Out In Bengaluru This Weekend

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 12:43 IST

Evening events like concerts, comedy and jazz work best if you plan transport in advance. Daytime festivals are easier to combine with slow brunches or evening dinners.

Bengaluru events tend to fill up faster than expected, especially on winter weekends. (Image: Canva)

If you are staying in Bengaluru this weekend and want plans beyond routine cafe hopping or mall walks, the citys event calendar offers enough variety to fill both days well. From live music and comedy to culture and kid-friendly outings, here are few events across the city you can plan for this weekend, with exact timings, locations, entry fees, and booking details.

Smirnoff Lemon Pop Non-Alcoholic Experience ft AFROJACK

Recommended Stories

Smirnoff Lemon Pops non-alcoholic tour stops in Bengaluru with a headline performance by global EDM star AFROJACK. Known for stadium-scale drops and chart-topping festival anthems, the evening promises high-energy sets and a full-scale live experience.

When: Saturday, November 29, from 4.00 pm onwards

Where: MANPHO Convention Centre, Nagavara

Entry fee: Rs 1,000 onwards

Alessio Menconi Organ Trio at Windmills

Windmills closes out November with a live performance by the Alessio Menconi Organ Trio, an Italian jazz ensemble known for its soulful grooves and classic organ-led sound. Expect a late-night set that blends traditional soul jazz with contemporary rhythms.

When: November 28 and 29, from 9.30 pm onwards

Where: Windmills, Whitefield

Entry fee: Rs 750 onwards

Kukdukoo Childrens Festival

Kukdukoo Childrens Festival returns to Bengaluru for a full weekend designed around fun, creativity, and family time. The festival features live performances including clown theatre, puppetry, superhero acts, and ventriloquist comedy, along with author interactions and storytelling sessions.

Children and parents can also explore a dedicated games and activities zone, while the wider festival includes competitions, open-mic segments, musical theatricals, quizzes, a flea market, and multiple food stalls.

When: November 29 and 30, from 11.00 am onwards

Where: Oakridge International School Bangalore, Dommasandra

Entry fee: Rs 699 onwards

Geist Brewing Co. x Backer & Charlie: November Special

This November, Geist Brewing Co. takes its craft beer out of the taproom and into the kitchen at Backer & Charlie for a limited-time collaboration menu. The weekend specials include The Repeat Strong Roast, a hearty sandwich with beef slow-cooked in Geist Repeat Strong Beer and tucked into a soft potato bun.

Vegetarians can opt for a mushroom version finished with a Repeat Strong Beer reduction. For dessert, theres The Dunkel Affair, a Berliner glazed with Geist Uncle Dunkel and filled with miso caramel, balancing malty richness with sweetness.

When: Saturday and Sunday in November, from 8.00 am to 6.00 pm

Where: Backer & Charlie, Cox Town

Price: A la carte

Feast of Flavours at Maize & Malt

As part of continued Karnataka Rajyothsava celebrations, Maize & Malt in Whitefield is hosting a regional food festival curated by Chef Kalyan Gopalakrishna. The Feast of Flavours menu travels across Karnatakas diverse culinary landscape, starting with familiar favourites like Bengaluru masala vade, Madduru vade, Davanagere menasinakai bajji, and Mangaluru bonda soup, alongside heartier non-vegetarian options such as pandi fry, Bannur mutton chops, and Mangaluru-style fish fry.

For the mains, the spread includes comforting classics like chitranna, mosaranna, tharakari donne palav, Malenadu naati koli saaru, Bannur mutton donne palav, and Mangaluru meen saaru. Dessert rounds things off with regional twists such as Mysore pak cheesecake and kai holige served with ghee.

When: Until November 30, from 12.30 pm to 1.00 am

Where: Maize & Malt, Whitefield

Price: Around Rs 1,000 for two

How to Plan the Weekend Better

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Evening events like concerts, comedy and jazz work best if you plan transport in advance. Daytime festivals are easier to combine with slow brunches or evening dinners. Families with children should aim to visit kid-focused events earlier in the day.

Bengaluru events tend to fill up faster than expected, especially on winter weekends. Book tickets by midweek, arrive early, and keep buffer time between plans. A little planning can turn a regular weekend into a genuinely good one.

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 28, 2025, 12:43 IST

News lifestyle Concerts, Comedy And Carnivals: Events To Check Out In Bengaluru This Weekend

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Red Planet Day 2025: History, Significance And Future Of Mars Exploration

Published By :

Trending Desk

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 08:28 IST

Red Planet Day 2025 marks 61 years of Mariner 4s historic Mars flyby, celebrating key milestones, discoveries and the future of humanitys ambitious exploration of Mars.

Rapid Read Choose News18 on Google

Mars is called the red planet due to its iron-rich soil, which gives it a reddish hue.

Red Planet Day is observed globally on November 28 to honour our fascinating planetary neighbour, Mars. In 2025, Red Planet Day will mark the 61st anniversary of the launch of Mariner 4, which was NASAs first successful mission to fly by Mars.

Hailed as a landmark occasion in human history as Earths efforts to explore and reveal the mysteries of the red planet, the Mariner 4 provided NASA experts with the first-ever close images of Mars and its surroundings. Mars is called the red planet due to its iron-rich soil, which gives it a reddish hue.

Recommended Stories

Red Planet Day 2025: History And Significance

Launched on November 28, 1964, the Mariner 4 mission is integral to the global observation and celebrations for Red Planet Day. Almost a year following its launch, NASAs scientists and astro experts rejoiced as Mariner 4 became the first spacecraft to successfully fly by Mars on July 14, 1965.

The spaceship came up with 22 insightful black-and-white images of Mars surface, while revealing the mysterious planets craters and a landscape. Experts discovered that Mars landscape was strikingly similar to that of the Moon.

The Mariner 4 mission acted as a pioneer in Mars exploration. Since then, many orbiters, landers and rovers have reached the red planet and given Earths planetary experts more critical information about it.

The research has paved the way to more fascinating study about Mars, which has only gained prominence among planets for human exploration, seen as the likely location for potential colonisation.

Milestones In Mars Missions

Apart from Mariner 4 in 1964, several other missions have been conducted to explore more about Mars and its surroundings.

Here are some of these milestones:

In 1971, we had the first successful soft landing on Mars, which marked another significant step in human exploration of the red planet. Four years later, Viking 1 and 2 ensured successful missions to land on Mars, send back high-resolution images and conduct experiments to search for life. European Space Agencys Mars Express went to the red planet in 2003 and orbited its surface to collect more information and data. Back in 2004, NASAs Spirit and Opportunity rovers found evidence of past water activity in a great development on Mars habitability. In 2012, the Curiosity Rover became the first rover to land on Mars and continue the exploration missions by studying its surface and subsurface.

Future of Red Planet Exploration

The coming years are expected to witness even greater efforts at Red Planets exploration.

One of the major developments is NASAs Artemis Program, which aims to return astronauts to the moon by the mid-2020s. The long-term vision of the program is to establish a lunar base to support deeper space exploration, including Mars.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

The European Space Agencys ExoMars Program is another exciting project.The ExoMars program consists of two major missions. T

he first is based on the Trace Gas Orbiter (TGO), where the orbiter will be analysing trace gases like methane in Mars atmosphere. The other mission, scheduled for launch in 2028, will have the Rosalind Franklin rover searching for signs of life in the planets geology.

About the Author Nibandh Vinod Nibandh Vinod is a seasoned journalist with nearly three decades of experience, known for his in-depth coverage of events and festivals, as well as his expertise in SEO-driven content at News18.com. A... Read More

First Published: November 28, 2025, 07:20 IST

News lifestyle events Red Planet Day 2025: History, Significance And Future Of Mars Exploration
Dharmendras Prayer Meet: Bobby, Sunny Deol Greet Everyone With Folded Hands | Watch

Published By :

Trending Desk

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 12:29 IST

Several A-listers attended Dharmendras prayer meet to pay their tribute to the legendary actor.

Dharmendra died at the age of 89.(Photo Credit: Instagram)

Bollywood celebrities united to offer prayers and remember Dharmendras extraordinary life and legacy. The legendary stars family, including his sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, hosted the prayer service Celebration of Life" in memory of his father, bringing together close friends, colleagues, and well-wishers who came to pay their respects to the iconic star.

In a video posted on Instagram, we get an aerial view of the prayer meet held in Dharmendras honour. Several digital screens celebrating his iconic on-screen characters over the years decorated the lawn filled with attendees. The moment was extremely emotional for the Deol family.

Recommended Stories

The video was captioned as Bollywood Celebrities arriving at Dharmendra Jis Prayer Meet", while revealing that the event was held at Taj Lands End, Mumbai. Several industry personalities paid their final tributes to the iconic He-Man" of Indian cinema at the event.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Deepika & Manal (@deepikaaa_manal)

Bobby And Sunny Deols Warm Gesture For Guests At The Prayer Meet

Losing a father is not easy, and this was clearly seen in Dharmendras kids faces. In a viral photo from the prayer meet, Bobby Deol and Sunny Deol were seen welcoming the guests with warm gestures. While the Animal actor looked extremely emotional as he shook hands with an elderly person, Sunny greeted everyone with folded hands.

Ahead of that, in a video posted on Instagram, Rajveer Deol, Karan Deol and Drisha Acharya were spotted arriving for Dharmndras prayer meet. They also looked emotional and teary-eyed after losing their daadu.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by EAFindia (@eafindia)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Namaste Bollywood (@namastebollywood.in)

Bollywood Celebrities At Dharmendras Prayer Meet

The event was attended by numerous Bollywood celebrities and industry figures who gathered to pay their respects to the late actor. The stars were spotted arriving at the venue, including Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan with his son Aryan Khan, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan, Rekha, Sidharth Malhotra, Jackie Shroff, Suniel Shetty, Shabana Azmi, Divya Dutta, Mukesh Khanna and Randeep Hooda. Other notable attendees included Sonu Sood, Chunky Panday, Sonu Nigam and Nirvaan Khan.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tinda News (@tindanews)

Sonu Nigam also reportedly performed a musical tribute with some of Dharmendras popular songs at the event.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bollywood Bubble (@bollywoodbubble)

In several viral videos, we also spotted Seema Sajdeh, Arhaan Khan and Amrita Arora arriving at Dharam jis prayer meet. Following them were Neha Dhupia and Angad Bedi, Ameesha Patel, Sharman Joshi and more.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by F I L M Y G Y A N (@filmygyan)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Namaste Bollywood (@namastebollywood.in)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Viral Bhayani (@viralbhayani)

A Celebration of Life" prayer meet for the legendary actor Dharmendra was held on November 27, at the Taj Lands End in Mumbai, following his passing on November 24, at the age of 89.

First Published: November 28, 2025, 12:29 IST

News movies bollywood Dharmendras Prayer Meet: Bobby, Sunny Deol Greet Everyone With Folded Hands | Watch
Hema Malini Held Gita Path At Home, Govinda Went To Dharmendra's Prayer Meet: Sunita Ahuja

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 14:28 IST

Sunita Ahuja said that she could not stop crying in front of Hema Malini at her house.

Rapid Read + Follow us On Google

Sunita couldn't attend the memorial held at the hotel.

Veteran actor and Bollywood legend Dharmendra passed away this month at the age of 89. On Thursday, Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol had organised a special prayer meeting to honour his legacy at a Mumbai hotel. On the same day, Hema Malini held a Gita path at home. Govindas wife Sunita Ahuja visited Hema Malinis residence and recounted her experience, as quoted by SCREEN.

Sunita said, Hema ji had kept a path of Bhagavad Gita and bhajans. So, we all listened to the bhajans. I couldnt stop crying in front of Hema ji." When asked about how Hema Malini was coping with her loss, she said, What can one say Its a huge loss. He was such a legend. I couldnt stop crying. He was my childhood crush. I respect their family so much. I am really broken at the moment."

Recommended Stories

Talking about a fond memory with Dharmendra, Sunita recalled, I had performed with Dharam ji on Sony TV to Chalkaye Jaam. I had shared the stage with him it was so special for me. I respect him and his family a lot. Im very close to Esha Deol too my whole family is. We are big fans of Dharmendra ji."

She added, In fact, I got married to Govinda because I felt he resembled Dharmendra. He is not that handsome; Dharmendra ji was the most handsome man in the industry. He was a true He-Man of the industry and worked till the very last. He was a true desi, a largehearted man."

Sunita recalled, I met him two months earlier during Ganpati. I went with my son, Yashvardhan. Esha had invited me for Ganpati. When Yash was born, I always wished that he had the qualities and looks of Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra."

She mentioned, Yash and I are very much in contact with Esha. Hema ji also loves us a lot. After Dharmendra ji passed away, Govinda visited Sunny and Bobby Deol to pay condolences. I couldnt go then as I was not in Mumbai. When I returned, I got to know about the prayer meet. So I went there on Thursday."

Sunita Ahuja said that she could only attend the prayer meet at Hema Malinis house and not the one organised by the Deols at a Mumbai hotel. However, she mentioned that Govinda did reach the hotel and met Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol. I couldnt go there. I just met Hema ji and Esha. Govinda went to pay tribute to Dharam ji at the prayer meet," she concluded.

About the Author Kashvi Raj Singh Kashvi Raj Singh is a Sub Editor at News18. She extensively covers Bollywood, Hollywood and television. She not only keeps an eye out for interesting news angles but also often writes social commentar... Read More

First Published: November 28, 2025, 14:28 IST

News movies bollywood Hema Malini Held Gita Path At Home, Govinda Went To Dharmendra's Prayer Meet: Sunita Ahuja
Tere Ishq Mein Review: Dhanush, Kriti Sanon Film Is An Angry Love Letter Written In Blood, Sprinkled With Petrol

Written By :

News18.com Edited By: Yatamanyu Narain



Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 16:28 IST

Theres an effortless authenticity in the way Dhanush portrays longing. Kriti Sanon holds her ground, sometimes with a controlled stillness and sometimes calibrated for impact.

Dhanush and Kriti Sanon starrer Tere Ishq Mein is now running in cinemas.

Tere Ishk Mein U/A 2.5/5 28 November 2025|Hindi 14 hrs 49 mins | Romantic Drama Starring: Dhanush, Kriti Sanon, Prakash Raj, Tota Roy Choudhury, Viineet Kumar Singh and Priyanshu Painyuli Director: Aanand L Rai Music: AR Rahman Watch Trailer

Tere Ishq Mein Movie Review: Aankhein band kar lene mein hi sukh hai par uthenge kisi din ussi Ganga kinaare damru bajaane ko, unhi Banaras ke galiyon mein daud jaane ko," soliloquised a lifeless Kundan in the final scene of Raanjhanaa. And it is these ghats of Banaras that form the confluence of Raanjhanaa and Tere Ishq Mein. As a soft instrumental version of Tum Tak plays in the background, in an interesting cameo, a holy man looks at the protagonist and draws a thread of similarity between Kundan and Shankar, as he says, Saare diljale aur karamjale ke shakal ek jaise hai kya?"

Aanand L Rais Tere Ishq Mein is a lot like Raanjhanaa in spirit and yet nothing like it. Comparisons are inevitable, so lets get that out of the way. Raanjhanaa  with all its moral flaws  carried a veil of innocence and rawness. It had a heart. And it struck the right notes in all the right places. It was like a coming-of-age boy tasting the intensity of love for the very first time. The spiritual sequel, however, is a selfish, angry, volatile, bloodthirsty and violent alpha male. He would put both Kabir Singh and Arjun Reddy to shame. Unpredictability is what defines his masculinity.

Recommended Stories

Tere Ishq Mein opens in present day Leh-Ladakh. Fighter pilot Shankar ruffles feathers for his unfriendly and dangerous actions and flying too close to international boundary. Its instantly established that hes rule breaker. Upon braving their Chinese foes and landing back in India, his senior V Shekhawat reprimands and suspends him. Short-tempered Shankar has to seek therapy and prove that hes capable of adhering to rules. Enter Mukti, a defense counsellor. Years of simmering trauma resurface when they meet.

The action then moves seven years back when Shankar and Mukti were students in Delhi University. He was the President of DUSU and she, a hard-working and enterprising student, aiming to receive a doctorate in behavioural psychology. One day, when her presentation is interrupted by Shankar and his hooligan friends to beat up another student, Mukti takes it upon herself to change Shankar. In other words, he becomes her case study to prove how violent people too can soften their edges.

Shankar, a habitual lawbreaker, ends up in jail almost every other day only to be released by his lower middle-class notary public dad. Shankar agrees to become Muktis guinea pig only on the condition that she starts dating him. She shakes hand with him but cautions him that while he may be in it for love, shes only doing it to complete her assignment. Eventually, after UPSC exam preps and a lot of violence, man-made infernos and emotional abuse, Mukti realises that she too has fallen in love with Shankar, but its too late by then.

He hates her now but it becomes difficult for her to lead life without his obsessive love for her and so, she resorts to alcohol. Years later, in a murky room at an air force station, she tries to seek closure. Tere Ishq Mein is marked with far too many tropes that are an integral part of films themed on toxic romanticism. Mukti has a saviour complex and knowing fully well of what could be the consequences of indulging Shankar and his whims, decides to become a rehab centre for him. Shankar, on the other hand, is a quintessential Sandeep Reddy Vanga hero.

He has mommy issues and falls head over in heels in love with Mukti as she reminds him of his mother. But for the most part, theres no explanation to what has made Shankar an obsessive, jilted lover with a borderline personality disorder. And the bigger question here is  what made Mukti take a 180 degree turn and fall for him suddenly one fine morning? After Do Patti, here weve Kriti Sanon playing another abuse victim in yet another problematic fashion, setting a dangerous precedent.

Shankars a narcissist too. At one point, he says that when he looks at the mirror, he sees Lord Krishna. And then theres Bollywoods favourite best friend trope. This best friend has no life of his own. His world revolves around Shankar. When Shankar decides to clear his UPSC prelims to impress Mukti and her dad, his best friend stays up with him tolerating his whims. He virtually stays with Shankar at his humble 10X10 room. Why? Because the only job he knows of is to hype Shankar up. And then suddenly one day, he vanishes into thin air.

At 2 hours 49 minutes, Tere Ishq Mein has too many things going on. Its themed on toxic lovers, unreciprocated love, physical and emotional abuse, self-harm, alcoholism, temperamental issues, rich-poor divide, death and grief. Its less of a love story and more of a saga about obsession laced with a whole lot of gore and petrol. The ishq in the title is its most uncomfortable, painful, triggering version. And then theres the holy man preaching how prem se maut milti hai, mukti nahi and why prem mein itna jalo ki mukti khud aake tumhaare pair mein girgiraye.

In another scene, an aggressive Shankar generously offers three options to Mukti to prove her love to him. Either she shoots his down with a gun, smooches him or they both jump off the terrace. In a fourth option put forth by Mukti, she asks him to strangle her. And later, when Mukti is all set to start a new chapter of her life, enters Shankar with a bottle of Ganga jal. Pouring it over her head, he curses her that one day, shell give birth to a son and finally understand what it means to scar a man by not reciprocating his emotions.

This is a film that shouldve started off with a trigger warning for men, women and other alike. No, we arent bringing morality into the conversation. Films, like real life, can have characters with an oscillating moral compass. And here, they do face dangerous consequences. But by then, the damage is already done. Tere Ishq Mein is also marked with far too many templates that Bollywood boasted about in the 1970s. The rich girls father snubbing the poor lover by giving him a challenge so that he disappears from his daughters life and making the poor lovers poor dad pay for his sons sins are just a few examples.

All in all, the storytelling often feels scattered and while the filmmaker tries to add in a lot of emotional depth, they dont really tug at the heartstrings. As a result, the viewing experience feels more incidental than cumulative. AR Rahmans music too lacks the Raanjhanaa magic. But what remains memorable are the performances. Dhanush as Shankar is earnest. He delivers a performance defined by raw emotionality. He lets his eyes do a lot of talking and the pain in them is palpable. Theres an effortless authenticity in the way he portrays longing.

Kriti as Mukti is particularly remarkable in the emotionally heavier moments. Theres a newfound maturity in her craft, which gets reflected in Tere Ishq Mein too after Do Patti. She holds her ground, sometimes with a controlled stillness and sometimes calibrated for impact. Either way, shes solid. Kriti and Dhanush share a palpable chemistry and grasp the complexities of their characters with aplomb. In their scenes involving emotional outbursts and exchanges, theyre compelling.

Prakash Raj as Shankars father is brilliant. Much like Thiruchitrambalam, here too, theres a single father and son dynamic involved. But heres no bitterness or Oedipal father-son tension. In a key scene involving Tota Roy Choudhury who plays Muktis father, Prakashs act will leave you teary-eyed. As for Tota, his doting but stern father act is a sharp departure from Rocky Aur rani Kii Prem Kahaani. This couldve been the quintessential heroines dad of the 1970s but Tota renders a lot of vulnerability and humanness to the part.

Unfortunately, Priyanshu Painyuli and Viineet Kumar Siingh are both wasted. Tere Ishq Mein turns out to be just another story about wild, unhealthy obsession between a man and a man towards each other. It largely lacks the nuance that Aanands films are known for. Its loud and garish in parts too. So, yes, this is no love letter. If there was a phrase to describe alarming letters written in blood by a stalker, it would be called Tere Ishq Mein. You can go watch it but at your own risk.

About the Author Titas Chowdhury Titas Chowdhury is a Special Correspondent at News18 Showsha. She writes about cinema, music and gender in cinema. Interviewing actors and filmmakers, writing about latest trends in showbiz and bringi... Read More

First Published: November 28, 2025, 15:30 IST

News movies bollywood Tere Ishq Mein Review: Dhanush, Kriti Sanon Film Is An Angry Love Letter Written In Blood, Sprinkled With Petrol
Opinion | Indias Rs 7,280-Crore Rare Earth Permanent Magnets Push Will Change Manufacturing Forever

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 12:45 IST

The Union Cabinet has cleared Indias first dedicated Production-Linked Incentive scheme worth Rs 7,280 crore for sintered Rare Earth Permanent Magnets

Rapid Read + Follow us On Google

The Union Cabinet is chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. (Image: PTI/File)

Quietly and almost invisibly, a single decision taken in New Delhi today has perhaps shifted the tectonic plates of global manufacturing. The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this week cleared Indias first dedicated Production-Linked Incentive scheme worth Rs 7,280 crore for sintered Rare Earth Permanent Magnets (REPM)the super-strong, heat-resistant neodymium-iron-boron and samarium-cobalt magnets that power the modern world.

This is not another incremental industrial policy. It is a declaration of strategic independence in one of the most tightly controlled technology chokepoints on earth. Think about everything that cannot exist without these magnets: the whisper-quiet traction motor in a Tesla or Tata Nexon EV, the 15-megawatt offshore wind turbines rising in the North Sea and the Gulf of Mannar, the actuators in an F-35 fighter jet or BrahMos missile, the vibration motor in every smartphone, the speakers in noise-cancelling headphones, even the humble hard-disk drive and MRI machine. None of these work at todays performance levels without rare-earth permanent magnets. They are the highest-energy-density magnets humanity has ever produced-10X stronger than the ferrite magnets of the old world.

Recommended Stories

Demand is no longer growing, it is detonating

In 2024 alone, the global electric-vehicle industry consumed over 37 kilotons of NdFeB magnets, a 32 per cent leap from the previous year. Analysts now project the global REPM market will cross $22 billion well before 2030, expanding at nearly 8 per cent compounded annually. Every new offshore wind farm, every defence modernisation programme, every data-centre cooling pump adds to the hunger. And for decades, almost the entire planet has been forced to buy these magnets from one country. China mines roughly 60 per cent of the worlds rare earths, refines over 90 per cent, and manufactures 94 per cent of the finished sintered magnets.

The rest of the worldthe United States, Japan, Germany, Koreabuilds cutting-edge products but remains hostage to factories in Jiangxi and Inner Mongolia. Beijing has demonstrated its willingness to weaponise this dominance repeatedly: export quotas in 2010, licensing delays in 2019, outright restrictions in 2023 and again in early 2025. Each episode sent prices soaring 300-400 per cent overnight and froze assembly lines from Stuttgart to Sanand.

India, astonishingly, has witnessed this obstructionism from the wings while sitting on the worlds third-largest rare earth reserves6.9 million tonnes of high-grade monazite locked in the black sands along the coasts of Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala. For seventy-five years after Independence, those beaches remained little more than scenic postcards. Less than 1 per cent of global rare-earth oxide production carried an Indian label, and finished magnet production was effectively zero.

That ends now. The Rs 7,280 crore scheme is ruthlessly focused. Rs 6,450 crore will flow as direct sales-linked incentives over five years; another Rs 750 crore will subsidise capital expenditure. The target: five integrated, world-scale plants with a combined capacity of 6,000 tonnes per annum of sintered NdFeB and SmCo magnets-enough to feed millions of electric vehicles, thousands of wind turbines, and the entire current and projected defence requirement. Each plant will be capped at 1,200 tonnes to prevent monopolies and encourage competition.

Allocation will happen through transparent global bidding, with mandatory technology transfer clauses for sintering and surface-coatingthe two most closely guarded steps in the entire chain. Production is expected to begin in 24-36 months. Full indigenisation of even the most demanding grades (those that operate at 150-200C inside EV motors) is targeted within four years. This is not wishful thinking; it is the same timeline the mobile-phone PLI scheme achieved when India went from 0 per cent to 25 per cent of global smartphone exports in five years.

The downstream impact will cascade across the economy. First, a multi-billion-dollar import bill vanishes overnight. Every Tata, Mahindra, Ola Electric, and Hero Electric vehicle will source motors at 20-30 per cent lower and predictable cost. Wind-turbine manufacturers like Suzlon and Inox Wind will no longer pay panic premiums when Beijing sneezes. Thousands of MSMEs making fans, pumps, compressors, and white goods will regain pricing power. Second, national security gets an unquantifiable but massive upgrade.

The Tejas Mk2, AMCA fifth-generation fighter, Zorawar light tank, hypersonic missiles, and submarine propulsion systems will no longer depend on the goodwill of a strategic rival. A single magnet shortage grounded an entire squadron of South Korean K9 howitzers in 2024; India will not face that humiliation. Third, entirely new industries become viable. High-efficiency traction motors for bullet trains, maglev prototypes, next-generation data-centre cooling, even fusion-reactor shielding-all were theoretical without assured magnet supply. Now they move into the realm of the possible. Fourth, it will expand our exports. Europe is spending tens of billions under its Critical Raw Materials Act to diversify away from China. Japan has been quietly stockpiling for years.

The United States has pumped $2.3 billion into domestic and allied capacity but will still fall short. A geopolitically neutral, democratic, cost-competitive India with beach-sand feedstock and proven manufacturing scale is the same India that now supplies one in every three iPhones assembled on earth can walk in and capture 10-15 per cent of the global magnet trade within a decade. That is $2-3 billion in fresh exports every year, plus the multiplier effect of components and finished goods. And finally, jobsnot just blue-collar mining jobs, but thousands of chemists, materials scientists, vacuum-furnace engineers, quality-control specialists, and R&D PhDs. Centres of excellence are already being planned in Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai to train the workforce this industry demands.

None of this is without risk. Monazite is mildly radioactive, and thorium separation requires world-class environmental discipline. The sintering process is energy-intensive and technologically unforgiving-a single bad batch can cost crores. Global giants will not surrender market share quietly. Yet the same sceptics once laughed at Indias semiconductor ambitions, solar ambitions, and drone ambitions.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Today, Micron is building a $22 billion plant in Gujarat, India is the worlds second-largest solar module exporter, and Indian drones patrol the highest battlefield on earth. If the same relentless execution that delivered those miracles is brought to bear here, the beaches of Gopalpur, Chhatrapur, and Manavalakurichi will soon power the motors of Berlin, Tokyo, Detroit, and yes, Delhi and Mumbai. The grains of sand glinting under the tropical sun are no longer just sand. They are the raw material for the electric, sovereign, unstoppable India that is now rising. This is Aatmanirbhar Bharat in its purest, most powerful form: turning Indias ancient geology into the magnets that will drive humanitys future.

The writer is an author and National Spokesperson of BJP. Views expressed are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.

First Published: November 28, 2025, 12:45 IST

News opinion Opinion | Indias Rs 7,280-Crore Rare Earth Permanent Magnets Push Will Change Manufacturing Forever

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Opinion | Ladakh To Delhi, PM Modi Facing Slew Of Regime Change Ops Using Gen Z

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 17:36 IST

These unrests are not homegrown cyclones but lightning rods imported to fracture Bharats unity

Maoist Hidma carried a bounty of Rs 1 crore on his head and, during his three-decade reign, was part of at least 27 armed operations against the Indian state. (Image: PTI)

It started as innocently as a school sit-and-draw competition. Delhis air had turned indefensibly toxic, and when students with placards started their protest, people welcomed the fresh air of civic activism.

But soon, the slogans started getting dark.

Recommended Stories

Madvi Hidma amar rahe", Kitne Hidma maroge? Har ghar se Hidma niklega", and Hidma lal salaam" rang out in support of the Maoist terrorist who was recently killed in an encounter with Indias security forces.

Hidma was the Osama bin Laden of Maoist terror. He waged a war against the India State, and was responsible for 26 attacks, including the 2010 Dantewada massacre of 76 CRPF personnel. His official kill tally stands at 260 security men and women and 76 civilians.

The clean air" sit-in did not stop at that. Protesters attacked the police with pepper spray.

Slogans bizarrely linked environmental decay to Naxal glorification, reeking of a much deeper agenda. More than 20 arrests have been made, and FIRs invoking Section 197 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (threat to national integration and security) have been filed.

It was a classic hijacking of legitimate grievances, just like Bangladeshs quota stir. This Trojan horse" tactic seeks to enlarge and channelise isolated issues into anti-government fury.

It is what the regime-change ops (many attribute it to the US Deep State) did in Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. These so-called Asian Spring" events remind us what orchestrated chaos is capable of when it preys on genuine grievances. A heady cocktail of foreign-funded NGOs, radical ideologies, and external powers out to sow division is on the prowl in India as well.

The Narendra Modi government has lasted too long for their comfort and brought too many uncomfortable, anti-globalist, and pro-nationalist changes. Waves of hit jobs have been launched to bring it down.

It is the nations resilient democracy (the ballot box channels youth aspirations) and deft leadership that has made the job extremely difficult for troublemakers. But not for lack of trying.

In Ladakh, for instance, what started on September 24 as a peaceful hunger strike for constitutional safeguards under the Sixth Schedule escalated into Ladakhs bloodiest day in decades. Youngsters burnt down a BJP office and police vehicles. This prompted the cops to fire, which killed four and injured dozens. A curfew, internet blackout, and hundreds of detentions followed.

In spite of India prioritising Ladakhs development and spending Rs 80,000 crore since 2019, anti-national undercurrents remain primarily because of Ladakhs geographical vulnerability of being placed between Pakistan and China.

During the unrest, digital echo chambers created by social media memes and livestreams stoked the violence, just as TikTok coordination achieved in Nepal. It was a telltale sign that foreign bots and certain NGOs were steering a strongly separatist narrative.

Globally renowned activist Sonam Wangchuk was also propped up as a Muhammad Yunus-like figure to galvanise the youth in an uprising against India.

Even the Sambhal mosque survey clashes of November 2024 were a similar attempt to unleash violence, whereby the State responds with uncontrolled violence and triggers a chain effect.

Protests against a court-ordered survey of Shahi Jama Masjid (alleged Gyanvapi-like temple site) turned lethal in UP on November 24, 2024. Police firing on a rampaging mob killed five Muslims and injured more than 50.

The shadowy provocateurs behind the agitation created a feedback loop of oppressed minority" narratives, which was amplified by Amnestys global alerts similar to those it sent during Sheikh Hasinas fall.

External funding trails were evident. Foreign NGOs were fighting the info war, and an X post analysis showed 40 per cent amplification from Dubai- and Qatar-based accounts pushing Hindu majoritarianism to corner India internationally.

Youth mobilisation during the NEET-UG exam irregularities of June-July 2024 was not much different.

Merit-based anger was contaminated with regime failure" chants. Rainy Jantar Mantar selfies went viral with youth vs corrupt state" tags.

Stone-throwing, angry hashtags, and a coordinated campaign on Telegram groups bore the signature of Discord tactics employed in Nepal.

Radical networks and Maoist sympathisers infiltrated the movement, according to the Intelligence Bureau. US- and UK-based bots pushed the education apartheid" agenda.

The Modi government embarked on reforms, did a national Testing Agency (NTA) overhaul, brought over 2 lakh new seats to restore trust, and NEET 2025 participation is up 15 per cent.

These provocations from shadowy global power networks will continue. They despise strong national governments. They usurp cultures and suck the blood out of economies by propping up weak governments.

These unrests are not homegrown cyclones but lightning rods imported to fracture Bharats unity. From AQI masks hiding Maoist posters to wolves in peacenik skin, the pattern is clear: exploit youth emotions, fan it with foreign funds and an info war, and film the fallout to go for the kill.

As India gets stronger, it has to increase its vigilance manifold. Predators are tirelessly circling.

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

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

First Published: November 28, 2025, 17:36 IST

News opinion Opinion | Ladakh To Delhi, PM Modi Facing Slew Of Regime Change Ops Using Gen Z

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Opinion | The Six South Asian Dominoes

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 17:35 IST

The coming years will see intriguing political developments in our immediate backyard

Rapid Read Choose News18 on Google

The two primary regional powers, India and China, have increased their influence  both soft and hard  throughout the subcontinent. (File for representation)

In a recent speech, NSA chief Ajit Doval pointed out that the regime changes in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal were the result of weak governance in these nations. This observation prompts us, as Indians, to broaden our perspective on the region and the ongoing great power rivalry.

The two primary regional powers, India and China, have increased their influence  both soft and hard  throughout the subcontinent. This situation requires a closer examination of what can be termed the Asian Dominoes: Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Nepal, Maldives, and Bhutan.

Recommended Stories

The shift these dominoes made around 2008, diving into free elections and seeking more independence, was based on a mistaken belief that they could develop autonomously with the assistance of great powers acting out of goodwill. Unfortunately, this naive perspective has resulted in their decline as functional states.

Countries like Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Nepal found themselves caught in the crosshairs of the ambitions of India, China, and the USA, ultimately reduced to pawns in a broader geopolitical game.

To grasp the dynamics at play, one must consider both the populations of these smaller nations and their historical context. When these countries achieved independence," it was framed through a Westphalian lens  an approach centred around European notions of nation-states that doesnt resonate with the realities of Asia. The boundaries established by colonial powers did not successfully transform historically integrated communities into distinct entities with unique identities. Instead, they perpetuated fragmentation among groups that have long been interwoven.

The dominoes of Southeast Asia have undergone significant political experimentation, navigating through various forms of governance ranging from authoritarian regimes to democratic systems. However, each of these attempts has ultimately culminated in failure. It is essential to recognise that attributing these failures solely to the interference of external powers is overly simplistic and misleading for two main reasons. First, such a perspective reduces complex issues to a single narrative, thereby neglecting the deeper, more intricate problems at hand. Second, interference and power dynamics are inherently woven into the fabric of international relations; they are natural elements of global governance.

Take, for instance, the situation in Myanmar. While it is easy to point fingers at nations that provide funding and support to rebel groups, this blame does not adequately capture the fundamental issues that have plagued Myanmar for decades. The root of the conflict lies in its historical connection to India  the reality is that Myanmar was once a part of British India. Had Myanmar integrated into India at the time of independence in 1947, these multifaceted ethnic and tribal rivalries might have been reconciled and assimilated into a larger national identity. Instead, the fragmentation of national unity has led to ongoing strife.

Similarly, regarding countries like Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, there is a profound misunderstanding of their political trajectories. These nations have operated under the assumption that they could progress and flourish despite alienating one of the regions key powers  India. This strategic miscalculation, particularly driven by Western influences, has proven costly. As these countries strive for development, their disregard for Indias significant role in regional stability may have repercussions that hinder their growth prospects.

Furthermore, as the United States shifts its focus back toward domestic priorities and the Americas, its ability to engage effectively with international geopolitical challenges will be markedly reduced. This shift compels a re-evaluation of the approach taken by these regional states. The Wests continued underestimation of Indias role and influence in South Asia could exacerbate existing tensions and disrupt any potential for collaboration in favour of stability and progress in the region. If this trajectory persists, the consequences may become increasingly severe, affecting not only the states involved but also the broader geopolitical landscape. Having said this, the noticeable observation has been that, by the late 2010s, these six dominoes had transformed into essentially buffer states in the Indo-China power rivalry in Asia.

While landlocked states like Myanmar, Bhutan and Nepal have provided a land buffer between the two countries, maritime buffers like the Maldives and Sri Lanka have faced the reality that they cannot develop without the implicit support of both the regions big powers. Bangladesh presents a unique case  unlike the civilisationally porous borders that India would like to maintain with countries like Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bhutan, Bangladeshs demography has led India to tighten the screws on illegal immigration. There is thus a distinction in these buffer states  states like Sri Lanka, Nepal and Bhutan imply the need for unifying with India to guarantee their people economic prosperity, sovereignty and peace, while failed states like Myanmar and the peculiar case of Bangladesh are examples of buffers being carved out in real-time.

This presents itself and has evolved into an excellent opportunity for India to solidify its sphere of influence, which it has long awaited to do. Unlike the Chinese who have used trade to implicitly demarcate their sphere of influence in Asia, we have not been able to use any one particular tool to press for hegemony.

The current and upcoming period present a convergence of two things  firstly, never in the recent past has the future of the Asian subcontinent, as a whole, ever been this bright, and secondly, it also aligns with the decline of American unipolarity, the influence of which has ended up causing aberrations and costly failures, particularly in South Asia. This is one more reason for the insistence on clear demarcation of the Elephant and Dragons spheres of influence  due to the fact that both the powers would like to keep the power competition in South Asia limited to themselves, it would also ensure that other great players like the United States will find it evermore difficult to continue interference in the neighbourhood. The policy of selectively blurred boundaries will ensure a smoother reunification of Bhutan, Nepal and Sri Lanka with Bharat, while mutually agreed-upon red lines on states like Bangladesh will ensure the prevention of any demographic shocks to the region by means of illegal immigration.

It is in this context that one must also recalibrate the understanding on the India-China border and the buffer states on it, namely, Nepal and Bhutan. The popular literature and narrative around the Indo-China border is presuming of an armed conflict across the disputed regions or in the northeastern provinces. We shall examine it in two time spans  in the short run and in the long run. In the short run, the priorities of the two nations offer very little scope for a war on the Himalayan frontier. While China has to steadily utilise its resources to deftly manoeuvre the punitive measures on it originating from Washington, India has much to do to catch up with the lost decades of skipped industrialisation. In the long run, the demographic problem faced by the Middle Kingdom would give it very little leeway to mount a war of high attrition or even sustain low-intensity conflict with India; the future expected gains are way too high for these two rational actors to clash over control of a few mountain passes situated at formidable heights.

We have deliberately refrained from discussing Pakistan, our western neighbour, because it does not fit the criteria of a domino state for several significant reasons.

Firstly, in contrast to Bangladesh, which has a comparable population and is predominantly Islamic, Pakistan has been embroiled in an active state of conflict with India since gaining independence in 1947. This long-standing animosity has created a unique geopolitical landscape that separates Pakistan from countries that might otherwise be classified as dominoes. Secondly, the geopolitical and geostrategic rifts between India and China are most evident in the context of Pakistan. These differences complicate the dynamics of South Asia and highlight the complexities involved in any potential shifts in regional power. Thirdly, Pakistans circumstances differ significantly from the six domino countries previously discussed. The United States has effectively transformed Pakistan into a client rentier state, which raises questions about its sovereignty and status as a real" nation in the traditional sense. This relationship has implications for Pakistans political and economic autonomy.

Lastly, rather than integrating with India or, in an improbable scenario, with China, as other domino states might, Pakistan is more likely to undergo a significant implosion. This could result in its fragmentation and eventual absorption into a greater India and a greater Afghanistan. Historical parallels can be drawn to Polands dissolution as a nation between 1795 and 1918, a transformation that serves as a cautionary example of how geopolitical realities can drastically alter national identities and boundaries.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

The coming years will see intriguing political developments in our immediate backyard, and India will well note even short-term events in the six Asian dominoes, as it makes its geopolitical calculations in this brittle region of the world.

Gautam Desiraju is a Professor Emeritus in IISc Bengaluru and Visiting Distinguished Professor in UPES Dehradun. Venkatakrishnan Asuri is a B.Tech student in IIT Madras. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the authors. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.

First Published: November 28, 2025, 17:29 IST

News opinion Opinion | The Six South Asian Dominoes

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 09:22 IST

1 / 7 Tamil Nadu is once again on high alert as the northeast monsoon intensifies, bringing rapidly shifting weather and the threat of severe rainfall. With a red alert issued for the Delta districts on November 28, the Meteorological Department has warned of wind speeds touching 50 kmph along the coastal stretch of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. Heavy rain is expected to lash several coastal and northern districts on November 29 and 30, prompting officials to prepare for potential disruptions. (Local18) + Follow us On Google

2 / 7 The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has stated that the deep depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal and the adjoining southeast Sri Lanka region has now intensified into a low-pressure system. It is expected to move in a north-northwesterly direction over the next 12 hours and strengthen once again into a deep depression. The system is likely to further develop into a cyclonic storm within the next 48 hours and track north-northwestwards across the southwest Bay of Bengal and the Sri Lankan coastline, towards north Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and south Andhra Pradesh. If it evolves into a cyclone, it will be named 'Tidwa', as proposed by Yemen. (Local18)

ADVERTISEMENT

3 / 7 As a result, heavy rainfall with winds reaching up to 65 kmph is anticipated. Authorities have warned fishermen from the Gulf of Mannar to the Tamil Nadu coastline not to venture into the sea. Disaster management teams and related government departments are closely monitoring the situation, with emergency rescue operations prepared should conditions deteriorate suddenly. (Local18)

4 / 7 A red alert has been issued for the Delta districts on November 28. The Meteorological Department has warned that heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely in Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Cuddalore, Chengalpattu, Villupuram, and Puducherry on November 29. Subsequently, heavy to very heavy rainfall accompanied by thunder and lightning is expected in northern Tamil Nadu districts, including Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kanchipuram, and Ranipet, on November 30. There is also a possibility of rain in Tiruvallur and Puducherry on December 1. (Local18)

ADVERTISEMENT

5 / 7 Cloudy conditions are predicted for Chennai and its surrounding suburbs. Municipal bodies, along with drainage and power distribution departments, are conducting emergency assessments. In light of the damage caused by previous rainfall, precautionary safety measures are being implemented in advance. (Local18)

6 / 7 Very heavy rainfall is expected on days when a red alert is in force. Rainfall measuring 204.5 mm or more within 24 hours falls under the red alert category. The government is expediting precautionary measures to mitigate the effects of heavy rainfall, one of which is the declaration of holidays for schools and colleges. Consequently, announcements indicate that educational institutions in several districts may remain closed On November 28 due to the red alert. At present, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Cuddalore, and Puducherry have been classified as high-risk zones. If weather conditions worsen, district collectors will declare school closures as a precaution. (Local18)

ADVERTISEMENT
Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 12:38 IST

1 / 10 In the wake of the shooting near the White House, US President Donald Trump announced a sweeping new immigration push, declaring that the United States would permanently pause migration from what he termed Third World Countries. (Image: Reuters) + Follow us On Google

2 / 10 Posting late at night on his Truth Social account, Trump sharply criticised the previous Joe Biden administration, accusing it of enabling illegal admissions. He argued that such policies had undermined improvements in living standards despite technological progress. (Image: Reuters)

ADVERTISEMENT

3 / 10 Even as we have progressed technologically, Immigration Policy has eroded those gains and living conditions for many, he wrote. I will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the U.S. system to fully recover, terminate all of the millions of Biden illegal admissions, including those signed by Sleepy Joe Bidens Autopen, and remove anyone who is not a net asset to the United States, or is incapable of loving our Country denaturalize migrants who undermine domestic tranquility, and deport any Foreign National who is a public charge, security risk, or non-compatible with Western Civilization. (Image: AFP)

4 / 10 Trump added that the measures were intended to sharply reduce what he described as illegal and disruptive populations, including individuals admitted through what he called an unauthorized and illegal Autopen approval process. He did not specify which nations he considered Third World Countries, leaving the category undefined. (File Photo)

ADVERTISEMENT

5 / 10 What Third World Country Means: Understanding the phrase Third World requires revisiting its origins and how its meaning has shifted over time. The term was coined in 1952 by French demographer Alfred Sauvy, whose framing linked the concept to postwar political and scientific ideas. Although paradoxically procolonialist, Sauvy portrayed the Third World as an active force in global change, allowing anticolonial leaders to adopt the term even though he partly intended it as a response to the U.S. notion of underdevelopment. (File Photo)

6 / 10 Cold War Usage: During the Cold War, Third World had a strictly political meaning - First World: NATOaligned states | Second World: Communist Bloc nations | Third World: Countries aligned with neither side. Under this definition, neutral states such as Switzerland, Finland, Ireland, and Austria technically fell into the Third World, despite not fitting modern perceptions. (Image: X)

ADVERTISEMENT

7 / 10 Modern Usage: After the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991, the term lost its geopolitical meaning. Today, it is commonly used, though controversially, to describe economically disadvantaged or developing nations. These countries often face high poverty levels, political or economic instability, and elevated mortality rates. Because the Cold War and modern meanings differ so sharply, confusion about which countries qualify is common. (Image: Reuters)

8 / 10 The modern use of Third World has drawn criticism for being disrespectful and implying a hierarchy of nations. The idea that First World countries are inherently superior, or that Third World nations are universally deficient, is inaccurate and misleading. As a result, the term has largely fallen out of favour since the 1980s. Many now prefer more precise, neutral terms such as Developing countries, Least Developed Countries (LDCs), and Lowincome countries. These classifications are based on economic and human development indicators rather than Cold War politics. (File Photo)

ADVERTISEMENT

9 / 10 The United Nations currently lists 44 countries as Least Developed Countries (LDCs), which receive special assistance and preferential access to global markets. As of December 2024, the list includes: 32 in Africa (e.g., Angola, Ethiopia, Malawi, Rwanda, Uganda, Zambia), 8 in Asia (e.g., Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Yemen), 1 in the Caribbean (Haiti), and 3 in the Pacific (Kiribati, Solomon Islands, Tuvalu). Some UN member states such as Monaco, Nauru, North Korea, and Somalia, are not included in the Human Development Index list, though most would likely fall into developing or leastdeveloped categories if evaluated. (Image: AFP)
December 08, 2025, 08:50 AM IST | Episode 103

In todays News18 Daily Digest: We begin with Parliament, where the Lok Sabha is set for a special 10-hour debate marking 150 years of the national song Vande Mataram. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will open the session, with the Opposition expected to counter his recent claims on the songs historical omissions. We then move to the continuing chaos at airports as IndiGo struggles to stabilise operations after mass cancellations triggered by crew duty regulation changes. The airline has restored partial services, but thousands of passengers remain affected as the Centre pushes for refunds and swift baggage return. In Goa, a tragic nightclub fire in Arpora has claimed at least 25 lives, prompting arrests, a government inquiry and rising political criticism over safety lapses. We also track the upcoming verdict in the high-profile 2017 Kerala actress assault case.
Saffron Scoop | 3 Big Bills And A Volatile SIR: Can The Centre Dodge Political Landmines This Winter?

Reported By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 12:17 IST

The massive Bihar mandate has given the Modi government wind in its sails. But with wind comes temptation, and risk.

HECI Bill to be tabled in Parliament to create a single higher education regulator replacing UGC, AICTE and NCTE.

The central question now is: can the government press ahead at speed without provoking new fault lines, with trade unions, opposition-ruled states, and voters, just months before the next run of state elections?

Recommended Stories

Labour Codes: The Biggest Landmine

The four Labour Codes, consolidating 29 laws into a modernised cluster on wages, industrial relations, safety and social security, are finally ready for full implementation. On paper, this is the single largest factor-market reform attempted in India in decades. Markets have cheered, and the government has patted itself on the back, calling it historic".

The message to investors is simple: predictability, compliance clarity, and flexibility for scaling. A post-Bihar victory narrative of stability + reforms = jobs" fits neatly into the governments 2026 economic pitch.

So, wheres the backlash?

Unions still see the Industrial Relations Code as weakening job protection. Any abrupt enforcement could spark coordinated protests across India. Supporters of the All India Kisan Khet Mazdoor Sangathan have already taken out a protest rally in Kolkata, while a joint forum of 10 central trade unions has submitted a memorandum to President Droupadi Murmu.

Opposition-run states may slow-roll rulemaking or accuse the Centre of bulldozing federal consensus. In the recently held conference of labour ministers in Delhi, I had communicated to the Union Labour Minister about the states strong opposition to the anti-worker provisions in the labour codes," said Keralas Labour Minister V Sivankutty.

Higher Education Commission Of India Bill

On the face of it, the Bill seeks to empower higher education institutions to operate as independent self-governing institutions" while ensuring excellence through a transparent accreditation system and enhanced institutional autonomy.

But critics argue that the HECI Bill centralises authority, weakens institutional autonomy, sidelines academic stakeholders, risks politicisation and managerial overreach, and may accelerate the marketisation of higher education unless strong safeguards are built in  echoing several key arguments made by opponents of the Centres National Education Policy (NEP).

The Bill is likely to follow NEP 2020s recommendations. The NEP proposes four verticals under HECI. Each vertical in HECI will be an independent body consisting of persons having high expertise in the relevant areas, along with integrity, commitment, and a demonstrated track record of public service. HECI itself will be a small, independent body of eminent public-spirited experts in higher education, which will oversee and monitor the integrity and effective functioning of HECI," NEP 2020 states.

A parliamentary panel headed by Rajya Sabha MP Digvijay Singh has already flagged that this Bill could lead to the closure of institutions in rural areas. Once the government tables it, more animated debates are expected.

Insurance Laws (Amendment) Bill: The Flashpoint To Watch

This Bill has the most explosive potential. Composite licences allowing life, general and health insurance under one entity, flexible capital requirements for new entrants, and a push for higher FDI caps  possibly up to 100 per cent in specific structures  the Bill has it all. These measures, the government says, are aimed at expanding penetration and achieving Insurance for all by 2047".

Now, why are we sensing backlash over this legislation?

Foreign control of Indian savings" is an easy slogan for the Opposition and can ensure multiple adjournments.

Moreover, some trade unions and LIC/PSU unions may mobilise sharply too. Any perception of dilution in consumer safeguards or solvency norms will attract scrutiny. In such a scenario, it would not be unusual to see even RSS affiliates like the Swadeshi Jagran Manch oppose the government, as it has done in the past on key economic issues.

SIR: The Big Bang Showdown

SIR is a door-to-door, large-scale re-enumeration that can add or remove names. Any sizeable deletion or addition invites immediate political suspicion, because even small changes in marginal constituencies matter. Opposition parties, therefore, treat SIR as a potential lever of vote engineering".

Even though the Supreme Court rejected apprehensions of large-scale voter deletion during the Bihar polls, Rahul Gandhis Vote Chori" campaign was directed at the EC and the BJP.

With several Block-Level Officers (BLOs) allegedly dying by suicide while blaming work pressure, the Opposition is bound to weaponise SIR, adding further to the governments worry.

Coordinated adjournments, special mentions, calls for an all-party discussion, and protests inside or near the House to force debates and dominate headlines are likely to be the Oppositions strategy.

The TMC, DMK and SP are expected to lead the SIR fight in Parliament.

Momentum Isnt Immunity

The Centre has momentum. Few governments get such a window after a major state victory. But momentum is not immunity.

In terms of the three Bills, none provides great political yields. But they are long-awaited reforms, particularly the Labour Codes and the Insurance Bill.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

There is no easy way of doing these. There is no cushioning. All three pieces of legislation are contentious. The icing on the cake will be the SIR issue during Zero Hour.

Slogans, placards, protests  the winter session will test even the calmest BJP floor managers ability to get the job done". Can they?

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 28, 2025, 10:53 IST

News politics Saffron Scoop | 3 Big Bills And A Volatile SIR: Can The Centre Dodge Political Landmines This Winter?

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Siddaramaiah, Shivakumar Get Calls From Congress Central Leadership, To Meet Over Breakfast

Curated By :

News18.com Edited By: Saurabh Verma



Last Updated: November 29, 2025, 09:55 IST

Siddaramaiah reiterated that there was no change in his stand and he will follow the orders of the Congress high command.

Rapid Read Choose News18 on Google

Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah and his deputy DK Shivakumar (Image: PTI/File)

The Congress partys high command on Friday stepped in to end infighting in the Karnataka unit, asking both Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his deputy DK Shivakumar to meet in a bid to resolve the crisis.

After the high commands nudge, Siddaramaiah invited Shivakumar for a meeting over breakfast on Saturday. The high command had called Shivakumar. They had called me as well. They told both of us to meet and talk. So I invited him for breakfast. When he comes there, we will both discuss everything," the Chief Minister said.

Recommended Stories

Siddaramaiah reiterated that there was no change in his stand and he will follow the orders of the Congress high command. I am saying the same now, and I will say the same tomorrow as well. He (DKS) too has said many times that he will follow what the high command says.

I have also said many times that I will follow what the high command says. We will discuss all this there," he added.

The Chief Minister further said he would go to Delhi if the high command called him.

Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar met on Friday during an event. Supporters of both factions continue to demand the top post for their respective leaders, while the Congress high command remains tight-lipped on the issue.

Meanwhile, according to top Congress sources, the high command has asked Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar to solve issues amongst themselves.

Last week, Congresss Karnataka in-charge Randeep Surjewala refuted reports of infighting and blamed the BJP for spreading a false narrative.

The chief ministers post in Karnataka emerged as a bone of contention between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar after the Congress registered a landslide victory in the 2023 Assembly polls. However, the party eventually picked Siddaramaiah as the chief minister. There were reports at the time that Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar had agreed to a power-sharing arrangement, though the Congress has never officially announced the deal.

Since Siddaramaiah took over as chief minister, MLAs and leaders backing Shivakumar have often demanded a leadership change in the state. This time, however, Shivakumars loyalists are more vocal, as Siddaramaiah has completed 2.5 years in office, and they believe he should step aside in line with the alleged power-sharing arrangement.

Moreover, even if the Congress party decides to change the chief minister, Shivakumar appears to be the frontrunner. However, leaders such as Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara have also thrown their hats into the ring for the top post.

A Cabinet reshuffle is on the cards in Karnataka, but the Congress high command faces a dilemma over whether to head into the 2028 Assembly polls with veteran Siddaramaiah as chief minister or reward Shivakumar, who played a key role in the partys 2023 success.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Meanwhile, senior Congress leader Veerappa Moily blamed the party high command for the crisis and called for discipline before the grand old party loses the state.

The central leadership is responsible for that. They should know how to control it, but things are leading in different directions, which will spoil Congress in Karnataka," he said.

Location : Karnataka, India, India

First Published: November 28, 2025, 20:21 IST

News politics Siddaramaiah, Shivakumar Get Calls From Congress Central Leadership, To Meet Over Breakfast

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Karnataka Power Tussle: Shivakumar To Arrive In Delhi Tonight To Meet Congress Top Brass

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 17:58 IST

DK Shivakumar is expected to arrive in Delhi tonight to meet the Congress high command amid an ongoing power tussle in Karnataka with Siddaramaiah.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah (R) with Deputy CM DK Shivakumar. (PTI/File)

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar is expected to arrive in Delhi tonight to meet the Congress high command amid a political crisis in the state for the chief ministerial post, with governance at stake.

I will definitely go to Delhi. It is our temple. Congress has a long history, and Delhi will always guide us. When they call me, the party leaders and the CM, we will go there," he told reporters on Friday.

Recommended Stories

My community is the Congress. I may belong to one community, and they may like it, but my love is for all sections of societyI dont want anything; my party will make the decision," he added.

#WATCH | Bengaluru | Amid leadership row in the state, Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar says, I will definitely go to Delhi. It is our temple. Congress has a long history, and Delhi will always guide us. When they call me, party leaders and CM, we will go thereMy community pic.twitter.com/NuTBc45V6l ANI (@ANI) November 28, 2025

Meanwhile, Shivakumars brother and former Congress MP DK Suresh reached Delhi, but declined to comment on the matter. I wont comment on any political issue. Whatever issues are there, the government of Karnataka and the CM will answer. BJP is in opposition, it will always tell other things. BJP wanted to be in the news; that is why they are doing all this. Everything is fine," he said.

Whats Happening In Karnataka?

The government in Karnataka reached its halfway mark on November 20, a milestone that has revived questions about whether the Chief Ministers post will change hands over an alleged power-sharing agreement" between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar dating back to 2023, a claim the party repeatedly denies but which continues to drive political chatter across the state.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday said he has convened a meeting of senior leaders to address the ongoing power tussle in Karnataka, as supporters of Shivakumar have intensified pressure on the top brass to make him the new CM. He further stressed that no decision will be made without collective consultation.

Both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar have asked the high command to end the ongoing confusion over a possible transition, citing the damage caused by uncertainty around who the Chief Minister will be for the remainder of the term. Siddaramaiah has repeatedly asserted that he intends to serve the full five-year term until 2028.

The two leaders exchanged a war of words on X. Shivakumar insisted that word power is world power," prompting a witty repartee from Siddaramaiah, who said, A word is not power unless it betters the world for the people."

ALSO READ: Responsibility That Lasts: Siddaramaiah Mirrors Shivakumars Word, World Post Amid CM Drama

BJP Mocks Congress Turmoil

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has mocked the internal fighting in Congress ranks. Former Karnataka CM and BJP MP Basavaraj Bommai said both Shivakumar and Siddaramaiah had egoistic attitudes and are unwilling to budge, which may compel the party to think of a third alternative.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

CM and Deputy CM both are in a very egoistic attitude. They are not ready to budge an inch. Therefore, the high command is compelled to think of the other alternative. So in this context, a dark horse might emerge in the state," he said.

Meanwhile, Congress MLC BK Hariprasad attempted once again to quell the speculation, saying the leadership in Karnataka was not in turmoil. There is no confusion, everybody has confidence in high command, they will take a call on every issue," he said.

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 28, 2025, 17:39 IST

News politics Karnataka Power Tussle: Shivakumar To Arrive In Delhi Tonight To Meet Congress Top Brass

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Rahul, Priyanka Are Lost, Should Step Aside: Ahmed Patels Son Blames Gandhis For Bihar Loss

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 14:32 IST

Faisal Ahmed Patel feels the Congress should be in the hands of Shashi Tharoor or other deserving leaders who are 25 times worthier than the Gandhi scions

Rapid Read + Follow us On Google

(From left) Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi, Faisal Ahmed Patel. (File/X)

Congress leader Faisal Patel, son of Sonia Gandhi loyalist the late Ahmed Patel, has blamed the lost Gandhis"  Rahul and Priyanka  for the recent Bihar poll drubbing. Faisal feels the party should be in the hands of Shashi Tharoor or other deserving leaders who are 25 times" worthier than the Gandhi scions.

Faisal said the lost Gandhis inept and they need to step aside".

Recommended Stories

Ahmed Patel, who passed away in 2020, was one of the most trusted and influential leaders in the Indian National Congress. He was the key political advisor to Sonia Gandhi and considered a crisis manager for the party". He served as the political secretary to Sonia Gandhi for many years after she became the Congress President.

The Congress managed one of its worst performances in Bihar, winning only six seats. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had termed the Bihar Assembly results as truly surprising" and said, We could not achieve victory in an election that was not fair from the very beginning".

He said he would like the Gandhis to step aside because they are doing a disservice to the cause of the Opposition and by extension democracy that needs an alternative.

He said he was in touch with PM Narendra Modi, Amit Shah and may opt for the Bharatiya Janata Party that has a wonderful work culture" led by hard workers".

In an exclusive interview with CNN-News18 in August, Faisal had alleged that a cliqueish culture" dominated by out-of-control advisors" is hurting the party.

He had said these advisors have managed to influence Rahul Gandhi in ways that alienate experienced and well-meaning loyalists.

He had also disagreed with Rahul Gandhis endorsement of Donald Trumps description of India as a dead economy," stating, I wouldnt have agreed with that assessment."

He had gone on to praise BJP leaders, saying, Modi ji, Shah are doing a great job. Dr. Jaishankar is very good too. The country is in safe hands."

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Recently, senior Congress leader Rashid Alvi said the Congress was no match for the BJPs hard work" in Bihar, criticising Rahul Gandhi for being inaccessible" and advocating for his sister, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, to take up the party mantle.

News18 had earlier reported how despite the widespread complaints heard during the one-on-one sessions conducted by the top leadershipincluding grievances that the vote chori" issue was poorly communicated on the ground and that Delhi leaders failed to connect with grassroots workers  the central leadership is committed to the single-point agenda of alleging electoral fraud.

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 28, 2025, 12:12 IST

News politics Rahul, Priyanka Are Lost, Should Step Aside: Ahmed Patels Son Blames Gandhis For Bihar Loss

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
UPA Banned Vande Mataram In Parliament: Govt May Lift 2012 Curbs To Counter Opposition Narrative

Reported By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 14:38 IST

Top sources say that it plans to remove Vande Mataram from the objection list, but not without pointing out that it was first inserted in the rules of dos and don'ts in 2012 by UPA

Rapid Read Choose News18 on Google

The Centre plans to counter the Congress and TMC. (File)

Vande Mataram, the national song which epitomised Indias fight against the British, is now central to the fight between the government and opposition.

It all began when the government re-issued a memorandum reminding the MPs for the upcoming parliamentary session that decorum should be maintained and some dos and donts have to be followed.

Recommended Stories

As per the parliament bulletin on rules, (3) The decorum and the seriousness of the proceedings of the House require that there should be no Thanks, Thank You, Jai Hind, Bande Mataram or any other slogans raised in the House."

This is what has now become an issue. West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee has asked why the government has an objection to Vande Mataram. Also, the fact that the national song was written by a Bengali, Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, has given her the chance to accuse the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of being anti-Bengal.

#BreakingNews | Celebrating 150 Years of Vande Mataram: Centre may withdraw 2012 ban on Vande Mataram; govt likely to call out opposition's double standards@_pallavighosh shares more details #vandemataram #India #LatestNews | @SaroyaHem pic.twitter.com/acAz0kPdif News18 (@CNNnews18) November 28, 2025

The Congress, which has often been on the wrong side of the nationalism debate, too, has been attacking the government on this.

But the government has a plan. It plans to move a short-duration discussion, but at the same time call the bluff of the opposition. Top sources say that it plans to remove Vande Mataram from the objection list. But not without pointing out that it was first inserted in the rules of dos and donts in 2012 by the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) and when the VP and Rajya Sabha chairman was Hamid Ansari, and that the TMC was part of the UPA also.

What the government says and will say in case of the debate is that in any case the proceedings of the House end with Vande Mataram being sung. But the inclusion of the national song on the banned list" is inappropriate now and also not relevant.

The government argues that with 75 years of the Constitution Day being celebrated, this change would mark the governments commitment to respect and value the Constitution.

#WATCH | Kolkata:  Kyun nahi bolenge? Jai Hind aur Vande Mataram hamara national song hai. Yeh hamara azaadi ka slogan hai. Jai Hind hamara Netaji ka naara hai Isse jo takraega choor choor ho jaega" says West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee on the Rajya Sabha bulletin, pic.twitter.com/P7SW2hMKIg ANI (@ANI) November 26, 2025

Its a do-or-die battle for the TMC in Bengal and it would want to use every weapon to ensure it can project the BJP as being anti-people, destroying the Constitution and also anti-Bengali for objecting to the song written by one of the stalwarts of Bengal  Bankim Chandra.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

In 2024, Rahul Gandhis Samvidhan Khatre Mein Hai narrative clicked to the extent that the BJP was limited to not getting a simple majority. This accusation on Vande Mataram being stopped will give him and his campaign another fillip.

But the government is all geared to show the mirror to the opposition.

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 28, 2025, 14:13 IST

News politics UPA Banned Vande Mataram In Parliament: Govt May Lift 2012 Curbs To Counter Opposition Narrative

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
104 Skydivers From 20 Countries Set New World Record With Stunning Mid-Air Formation | Watch

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 23:10 IST

The mesmerising feat was captured in stunning viral footage, showing the skydivers linking their parachutes mid-air to create a giant star pattern against the sky

Rapid Read + Follow us On Google

104 skydivers linked their parachutes to create a breathtaking pattern in the sky. (Instagram)

A group of 104 elite skydivers from 20 different countries set a new world record with a new physics-defying mid-air canopy formation on November 22 in Lake Wales, Florida.

The feat was captured in stunning viral footage, showing the skydivers linking their parachutes mid-air to create a giant star pattern against the sky, shattering the world record for the largest canopy relative work (CPW) formation.

Recommended Stories

The previous world record involving 100 skydivers in formation was set in 2007. This attempt required a serious logistical operation, including 8 planes and the cooperation of a vast array of relevant agencies, including air traffic control, as per reports.

Chris Gay, who co-organised the skydiving formation, said three world-record judges on site confirmed the group set the new record. When we have an event like this, its the journey. And so many people changed their lifestyle, the way they ate. The way they exercised, the way they slept. They got into much better shape than they have been in 10 or 20 years. So, a lot of people are claiming that thats one of the big things for the event," he told WALB News.

Viral footage from Performance Designs and accompanying photographers captured the immense scale of the formation, with colorful canopies locking together to form a giant structure. The event was dubbed as Operation VK.

This Thanksgiving, were giving thanks for a new 104-way CRW world record! To everyone who built this historic formation from the base, to the very last dock, to the video team and to everyone on the ground supporting them, congrats. You made something unforgettable," it said on Instagram.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Performance Designs Inc (@performancedesigns)

Among the participants was a 60-year-old plumber, Peter Hughes, who described the achievement as absolutely amazing", reported The Westmorland Gazette.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

There is a group of 130 of us who have been working on this for many years, concentrating on this particular jump for the last three years. Everyone involved in it [the jump] has gone through a journey," he said.

The video drew praise from netizens on social media. This is next level cool!" wrote one user, while another netizen said., Videos like these remind us humans are pretty awesome."

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 : United States of America (USA)

First Published: November 28, 2025, 23:10 IST

News viral 104 Skydivers From 20 Countries Set New World Record With Stunning Mid-Air Formation | Watch

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Achieve American Dream Or Get Arrested: US Agencies Detain People During Green Card Interviews

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 07:45 IST

An ICE spokesperson said that the agency is focused on enforcing federal immigration laws through targeted operations that emphasise national security and public safety.

US federal agencies are detaining people, including spouses of American citizens, during routine Green Card interviews. (Representative image)

US federal agencies have been detaining individuals, including the spouses of American citizens, during routine Green Card interviews at USCIS offices in San Diego, according to US media reports. An attorney reported that his client was detained and handcuffed during a Green Card interview.

Immigration attorney Saman Nasseri noted that federal agencies have begun arresting visa overstays during their interviews. Some couples and their lawyers told The New York Times they had followed the necessary steps to secure permanent residency.

Recommended Stories

ICE and USCIS have started implementing a policy where ICE arrests visa overstays at USCIS offices during Green Card interviews," Nasseri was quoted as saying by CBS8.

Nasseri mentioned that five of his clients were taken into custody during Green Card interviews last week. He clarified that his clients had no criminal history or prior arrests.

None of my clients in this situation have any arrests or criminal history. They entered legally but overstayed their visas. All of my current cases involve people married to US citizens, going through the standard process, and being taken into custody," Nasseri added.

Another attorney, Habib Hasbini, confirmed similar experiences with his clients.

The first incident occurred on November 12, just before a memo from ICE. Since then, Ive had four more cases, and Ive been receiving many calls from people arrested at the same facility," Hasbini told CBS8.

Hasbini noted that, so far, these detentions seem limited to the USCIS office in San Diego.

Hasbini advised those with scheduled Green Card interviews to attend, while being cautious and prepared for potential detentions.

He recommended making family and work arrangements in case of detention, noting that missing an interview could result in case denial for abandonment. Additionally, individuals out of status may still face arrest by ICE, according to CBS8.

Mexican National Detained

Immigration attorney Tessa Cabrera told ABC10 that her client, a Mexican national residing in the US since 2002, was handcuffed and taken into custody during his Green Card interview. According to ABC10, the mans US citizen daughter had applied for his permanent residency.

The officer said, Ill be right back, then two ICE officers entered, asked for his name, and handcuffed him," Cabrera said.

The client was taken to the basement of the federal building and detained at Otay Mesa Detention Center, Cabrera added.

She said ICE officers provided a Warrant for Arrest" issued by the Department of Homeland Security.

The warrant stated probable cause based on statements made to the immigration officer or evidence that the person lacked immigration status or was removable under immigration law, according to the report.

ICE Defends Arrests

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

An ICE spokesperson told CBS8 that the agency is focused on enforcing federal immigration laws through targeted operations that emphasise national security, public safety, and border security.

Individuals unlawfully present in the United States, including those out of status at federal sites such as USCIS offices, may face arrest, detention, and removal in accordance with US immigration law," the spokesperson said, as reported by CBS8.

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 : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)

First Published: November 28, 2025, 07:45 IST

News world Achieve American Dream Or Get Arrested: US Agencies Detain People During Green Card Interviews

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Cyclone Ditwah Updates: 46 Killed In Sri Lanka, PM Modi Condoles Loss Of Lives | Top Points

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 16:35 IST

Cyclone Ditwah struck Sri Lanka, killing at least 46 and leaving 23 missing, with Badulla hit by deadly landslides.

Rapid Read Choose News18 on Google

People and vehicles wade through a waterlogged street following heavy rainfall in Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, November 28, 2025. (Reuters)

A powerful cyclone battered Sri Lanka on Friday, killing at least 46 people and leaving 23 others missing, officials said, as the weather department warned that the storm could strengthen further over the next 12 hours while moving across the island.

Most of the people were killed due to landslides triggered by torrential rainfall exceeding 300 mm (11.8 inches) over the past 24 hours as Cyclone Ditwah lashed the island nation, with the eastern and central regions most severely affected.

Recommended Stories

The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) said a landslide in the central tea-growing district of Badulla swept through homes overnight, killing 21 people.

The DMC said 43,991 people had been evacuated to schools and public shelters, including families rescued from rooftops as floodwaters surged.

The IMDs Regional Meteorological Centre in Chennai on Friday issued a three-hour yellow alert for several districts in Tamil Nadu as cyclonic storm Ditwah approaches the region.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Check Live Updates

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued as Cyclonic Storm DITWAH moved north-northwest across Sri Lanka and the southwest Bay of Bengal, placing North Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and the beaches of South Andhra Pradesh under cyclone watch.

moved north-northwest across Sri Lanka and the southwest Bay of Bengal, placing North Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and the beaches of South Andhra Pradesh under cyclone watch. The IMD said the system is expected to cross near the coast by early November 30. It advised residents to stay indoors and avoid coastal areas, urging people to follow official advisories and refrain from spreading rumours.

The weather body also cautioned fishermen not to venture into the sea, stressing the need for vigilance.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences to the people of Sri Lanka over the loss of lives due to Cyclone Ditwah and said India stands in solidarity with its closest maritime neighbour" during the crisis.

In a post on X, the Prime Minister added that India has urgently dispatched relief materials and vital HADR support under Operation Sagar Bandhu, and assured that additional aid and assistance would be provided as the situation evolves.

PM Modi said the support is guided by Indias Neighbourhood First policy and Vision MAHASAGAR, reaffirming that India will continue to stand firmly with Sri Lanka in its hour of need.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced the commencement of Operation Sagar Bandhu to provide relief assistance. In a post on X, Jaishankar said that INS Vikrant and INS Udaygiri have handed over relief material at Colombo, adding that further steps are underway.

According to Chennais Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) Director B Amudha, the name, Ditwah, referring to the lagoon, was suggested by Yemen. It is likely named after Detwah Lagoon, a large, saline lagoon on the northwest coast of the island of Socotra in Yemen.

Schools remained closed, train services were suspended, and the Colombo Stock Exchange announced an early trading halt as heavy rains persisted.

Sri Lanka may divert flights from its main airport to Trivandrum or Cochin in south India if conditions deteriorate, Reuters quoted Ports and Civil Aviation Minister Anura Karunathilake as saying to the reporters.

Location : Sri Lanka

First Published: November 28, 2025, 15:46 IST

News world Cyclone Ditwah Updates: 46 Killed In Sri Lanka, PM Modi Condoles Loss Of Lives | Top Points

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Death Toll In Hong Kong Buildings Fire Climbs To 128, Many Still Missing

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 07:22 IST

The Hong Kong high-rise fire death toll rose to 128 as rescuers continue searching the towers for missing residents.

Rapid Read + Follow us On Google

The fire operation at the affected apartment complex was still on as the death toll rose to 94. (Image: AFP/File)

The death toll in the devastating fire that tore through several high-rise buildings in a residential complex in Hong Kong climbed to 128 on Friday, news agency AFP reported. Rescuers continued to search the towers as many people remain missing after the blaze that erupted on Wednesday.

Rescuers carrying flashlights moved from apartment to apartment in the burned towers, with thick smoke still billowing from some windows at the Wang Fuk Court complex  a tightly packed cluster of buildings that houses thousands in Tai Po, a northern suburb near Hong Kongs border with mainland China.

Recommended Stories

News agency AP, citing officials, reported said firefighters continued working in several units and were attempting to access every apartment across the seven towers to make sure no additional victims remained.

Search Underway For Missing People

Our firefighting operation is almost complete," Derek Armstrong Chan, deputy director of Fire Services Operations told AP. Firefighters were working hard to prevent the debris and embers from flaring up. Whats next is the search and rescue operation," he added.

It remained unclear how many people were still missing or trapped. Hong Kong leader John Lee said early Thursday that authorities had lost contact with 279 people. During a press conference later that day, officials offered no further updates on the missing or how many might still be inside the devastated towers, the report stated.

Video footage showed rescuers moving through some darkened apartments, their flashlights cutting through the smoke. Orange flames continued to flicker from several windows, even as most of the complex had been reduced to a blackened shell.

One Of Deadliest Fires In Hong Kong

Firefighters had been battling the blaze since midafternoon Wednesday. The fire is believed to have ignited in bamboo scaffolding and construction netting before spreading rapidly across seven of the complexs eight buildings.

More than 70 people were injured, including 11 firefighters, in addition to the 128 fatalities, according to the Fire Services Department. Around 900 residents were moved to temporary shelters overnight.

Pope Leo XIV sent a telegram to Hong Kongs bishop on Thursday, expressing his sorrow over the tragedy and offering prayers for the injured, their families, and the emergency responders.

The blaze, which began in the afternoon and continued late into the night, is the deadliest in decades in Hong Kong, which has some of the worlds most densely populated and tallest apartment blocks.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Flames initially caught on bamboo scaffolding on several towers of Wang Fuk Court, a housing estate with nearly 2,000 flats in eight towers, which was reportedly undergoing maintenance. Charred sections of scaffolding fell from the buildings, while flames could be seen inside apartments, often bursting through windows and casting an eerie orange glow on nearby buildings.

Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed condolences to the victims, including the firefighter who died in the line of duty. He offered sympathies to the families of the victims and those affected by the disaster, and called for making every effort to extinguish the fire and minimise casualties and losses," state broadcaster CCTV reported.

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 28, 2025, 07:22 IST

News world Death Toll In Hong Kong Buildings Fire Climbs To 128, Many Still Missing

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
'No Proof Of Life': Imran Khan's Son Urges Global Intervention Amid Ex-PM's Death Speculation

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 08:43 IST

Imran Khans son Kasim has alleged that the former PM has been held in total isolation for six weeks with no proof of life, despite court orders permitting family access.

PTI party supporters carry a poster of their leader and former Prime Minister Imran Khan (Photo: AFP)

Imran Khans son, Kasim Khan, issued an urgent public appeal on Thursday, alleging that the former Pakistani Prime Minister has been subjected to total isolation in jail for six weeks, with no family contact, no legal access and no proof of life."

In a post on X, Kasim accused the Pakistani government of deliberately concealing Khans condition and violating court orders that allow his family to meet him.

Recommended Stories

My father has been under arrest for 845 days. For the past six weeks, he has been kept in solitary confinement in a death cell with zero transparency," Kasim wrote.

He said that despite clear judicial directions, officials had barred every attempt by Khans sisters to visit him.

His sisters have been denied every visit, even with clear court orders allowing access," he added.

According to Kasim, the former premier has been completely cut off from the outside world. There have been no phone calls, no meetings and no proof of life. Me and my brother have had no contact with our father," he said, describing the situation as a severe escalation in restrictions imposed over the past month and a half.

Calling the blackout deliberate rather than procedural, Kasim alleged political motive behind the isolation.

This absolute blackout is not a security protocol. It is a deliberate attempt to hide his condition and prevent our family from knowing whether he is safe," he wrote.

Issuing a warning to authorities, he mentioned, Let it be clear: the Pakistani government and its handlers will be held fully accountable legally, morally and internationally for my fathers safety and for every consequence of this inhumane isolation."

Kasims post ended with a plea, I call on the international community, global human rights organisations and every democratic voice to intervene urgently. Demand proof of life, enforce court ordered access, end this inhumane isolation and call for the release of Pakistans most popular political leader who is being held solely for political reasons."

My father has been under arrest for 845 days. For the past six weeks, he has been kept in solitary confinement in a death cell with zero transparency. His sisters have been denied every visit, even with clear court orders allowing access. There have been no phone calls, no pic.twitter.com/VZm26zM4OF Kasim Khan (@Kasim_Khan_1999) November 27, 2025

In a separate X post, Imran Khans sister, Aleema Khanum, wrote, Imran Khan is in illegal isolation."

People keep asking us about his health and safety, but the truth is, we have no access to anyone who can give us verified information."

The only reason we beleive him to be safe is because the authorities would not dare to hurt even a hair on Imran Khans head. They are well aware of the consequences of any such stupidity. He is the leader of at least 90 percent of Pakistan. They should definately fear the wrath of the Pakistani nation," (sic), she mentioned.

Imran Khan is in illegal isolation.People keep asking us about his health and safety, but the truth is, we have no access to anyone who can give us verified information. The media may quote official statements" from jail authorities, but we do not trust a single word from  Aleema Khanum (@Aleema_KhanPK) November 27, 2025

This comes amid rising concerns over Khans well-being as his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), continues to be denied access to him.

According to a Reuters report, PTI leaders said earlier this week that they had not been allowed to meet Khan for more than three weeks, prompting fears about his health.

Zulfikar Bukhari, the partys spokesperson, told Reuters, His health is our concern. We are worried about his illegal isolation," adding that no one had seen the former premier since November 4.

Khan has been imprisoned since August 2023, serving a 14-year sentence on corruption charges, one of several cases he claims were fabricated to sideline him politically, an accusation the powerful military establishment denies.

His arrest in 2023 had triggered nationwide protests, followed by a sweeping crackdown on PTI.

Despite prison rules allowing weekly meetings, PTI members told Reuters that authorities had repeatedly blocked access in recent months.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Local media have also reported discussions about moving Khan to a high-security facility to further restrict contact, although a jail official told Reuters that the former Prime Minister was in good health" and that no such transfer was planned.

ALSO READ | Not Letting Anyone Meet Him: Imran Khans Sister Amid Rumours About Pakistans Former PMs Health

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 28, 2025, 07:28 IST

News world 'No Proof Of Life': Imran Khan's Son Urges Global Intervention Amid Ex-PM's Death Speculation

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Imran Khan Tortured, Assaulted In Pakistan Jail: Party Sources Amid Mounting Concerns On His Health

Reported By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 13:12 IST

PTI insiders claimed Imran Khan has been beaten and subjected to high-intensity confinement

Rapid Read Choose News18 on Google

Imran Khans sisters have reached the High Court for immediate meeting with him.

Amid rising concerns over Imran Khans health, party sources told News18 that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is being tortured in Adiala jail and kept in near-complete isolation. PTI insiders claimed Khan has been beaten and subjected to high-intensity confinement. Khan has had no meaningful access to family or legal teams for weeks, said sources.

What is making matters worse amid the buzz is the authorities refusal to let family members meet Khan. Why arent they letting us meet him? Why create this attention? It would be so simple if they allowed him to meet his family and party workers," Aleema Khanum told CNN-News18 in an exclusive phone interview. She added that she did not believe the Pakistani establishment would harm Khan inside the jail. They wouldnt. People would turn on them. People will not spare themand they wont find a flight out of the country."

Recommended Stories

It is only a matter of time before the anger among Pakistani citizens over the treatment of former prime minister Imran Khan spilled onto the streets," his sister Aleema Khanum She said the family had consulted lawyers on filing a petition demanding that Imran Khan be produced in a court of law. Its [street demonstrations] are going to happen. Its not a matter of if but when. And its all leading toward the same thingAnd when the agitations begin, they wont be able to stop them," Khanum said.

His physical condition is reportedly not great, with insiders confirming that the deterioration is happening slowly. According to sources, this is linked to sustained pressure, harsh treatment, and restricted communication.

Earlier the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister was routinely allowed to meet him, but sources say those meetings were used to issue misleadingly positive health updates. He was masking the real situation inside the prison," said sources.

Authorities fear that if Khans sisters publicly highlight his condition, the situation could escalate into nationwide protests

Meanwhile, Khans sisters have reached the High Court to file petition for immediate meeting with him.

Fight intensifies

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi staged an overnight sit-in outside the jail after being denied a meeting with Khan for the eighth consecutive time, Dawn reported.

The protest began on Thursday afternoon and included members of the KP cabinet, with visuals shared by the PTI showing Afridi and party workers offering Fajr prayers outside the prison on Friday morning.

According to Dawn, Afridi announced on the partys livestream that the sit-in was being wrapped up and that he would now approach the Islamabad High Court (IHC).

Referring to an incident involving Imrans sisters outside Adiala last week, he said, You have seen their condition yourself; they were grabbed by their hair and disrespected."

Afridi accused authorities of using such tactics" to break the spirit" of the former prime minister.

He also alleged that Imrans wife, Bushra Bibi, who is a pious woman," was being targeted in an attempt to break" Imran.

He remarked, A province is being treated like a stepmother," adding that such treatment of a representative of 25 million people was unacceptable.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Former aide Zulfi Bukhari said no one had seen Imran since November 4, and no reason had been provided for denying meetings, Dawn reported.

With ANI Inputs

About the Author Manoj Gupta Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18

First Published: November 28, 2025, 12:57 IST

News world Imran Khan Tortured, Assaulted In Pakistan Jail: Party Sources Amid Mounting Concerns On His Health

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Imran Khans Sisters File Petition For Permission To Meet Him In Prison

Reported By :

CNN-News18

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 13:19 IST

The petition claims that the jail authorities have violated constitutional rights, stating that Imran Khan has not been allowed to meet his family members for several weeks.

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khans sister, Aleema Khan, on Friday filed a petition against the Superintendent or Jailer of Adiala Jail, SHO Berooni Police Station, the Secretary Interior of the Government of Pakistan and the Secretary Home Department of the Government of Punjab Province to seek urgent orders to allow immediate access to their brother, who is currently lodged in Adiala jail.

The petition filed under the contempt of court orders.

Recommended Stories

The petition claims that the jail authorities have violated constitutional rights, stating that Imran Khan has not been allowed to meet his family members for several weeks despite repeated written requests.

Sources close to the matter have informed that the petition includes medical concerns and states that the family has no verified information on Khans health condition inside prison.

The development struck a fresh wave of mobilisation among Imran Khans Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supporters, who have already announced peaceful demonstrations outside courts and major cities.

Social Media Abuzz With Rumours About Imran Khans Death

Meanwhile, several social media handles from Afghanistan and Pakistan are rife with rumours that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supremo was mysteriously killed in the Adiala jail.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Afghanistan media reported that Khan has allegedly been mysteriously killed, and his body has been moved out of the prison. Several social media handles, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Balochistan, have posted about his alleged assassination.

The rumours came after Imran Khans three sisters were brutally assaulted" by the police for what the party said was their crime for seeking a meeting with Imran Khan". The sisters were camped outside the prison after being denied a meeting with him for a month when police personnel pounced on them and brutally assaulted them, the PTI claimed.

About the Author Manoj Gupta Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18

Location : Pakistan

First Published: November 28, 2025, 10:21 IST

News world Imran Khans Sisters File Petition For Permission To Meet Him In Prison

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Is Bangladesh Getting Military Technology From Pakistan? Decoding The Growing Partnership

Reported By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 16:43 IST

Bangladesh has sent fighter pilots and technical specialists to Pakistan for advanced training, while Pakistans HIT has proposed upgrades to Bangladeshs ageing tank fleet

Rapid Read Choose News18 on Google

Since the ouster of Sheikh Hasina in August 2024, Pakistans military influence in Bangladesh has grown steadily.

Bangladeshs defence ties with Pakistan are deepening as Dhaka increasingly engages in military technology cooperation with Islamabad.

Bangladesh has sent fighter pilots and technical specialists to Pakistan for advanced training, while Pakistans Heavy Industries Taxila (HIT) has proposed upgrades to Bangladeshs ageing tank fleet.

Recommended Stories

These developments highlight a growing partnership that could pave the way for Dhaka to access advanced defence systems, raising questions about future missile technology transfers.

Pakistans Expanding Military Influence in Bangladesh

Since the ouster of Sheikh Hasina in August 2024, Pakistans military influence in Bangladesh has grown steadily.

The student-led uprising that toppled Hasinas government created a political vacuum, and Dhakas interim leadership under Muhammad Yunus began steering foreign policy away from India.

This shift opened the door for Islamabad to reassert itself in Bangladeshs defence and strategic sectors.

Reports highlight that Pakistan has supplied defence materials, including ammunition, and initiated high-level military dialogues.

Analysts argue that Pakistan views Bangladesh as a strategic partner to counterbalance Indias dominance in South Asia.

The revival of military training programmes, easing of trade restrictions, and frequent visits by Pakistani delegations underscore a deliberate effort to tighten Islamabads grip on Dhakas armed forces. This marks a significant realignment in regional geopolitics, with Bangladesh increasingly positioned within Pakistans sphere of influence.

High-Level Military Visits Since August 2024

Between August 2024 and late 2025, several Pakistani military officials have visited Bangladesh, signalling a thaw in relations.

In October 2025, Lieutenant General Tabassum Habib, Director General of Joint Staff, led a four-day official visit to Dhaka, marking one of the highest-level engagements since the interim government took office.

Earlier, in October 2024, Pakistans Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Sahir Shamshad Mirza also met Bangladeshs army chief to discuss joint training and cooperation.

The Pakistan Navy frigate PNS Saif docked at Chattogram in November 2025 for a goodwill visit, further cementing ties.

These visits, combined with delegations from Pakistans ISI and defence industry, reflect a coordinated strategy to rebuild trust and establish long-term defence collaboration. The frequency and seniority of these visits highlight Islamabads determination to integrate Bangladesh into its military orbit.

Pakistans military influence in Bangladesh has expanded rapidly since August 2024, facilitated by frequent high-level visits and defence cooperation initiatives. Senior Pakistani officials, including the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff and HITs leadership, have engaged Dhaka in discussions ranging from training programmes to industrial collaboration.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

The HIT chairmans visit underscores the seriousness of these ties, with proposals to modernise Bangladeshs armoured fleet already on the table. While missile technology transfers remain speculative, the involvement of HIT and Chinas parallel support suggests a growing possibility of advanced systems reaching Dhaka.

Ultimately, Bangladesh appears to be transforming into a strategic arena where Pakistan and China jointly seek to counterbalance Indias dominance. This evolving alignment highlights a new geopolitical reality  Bangladesh is no longer just a passive player but an active participant in South Asias shifting defence landscape.

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 28, 2025, 16:42 IST

News world Is Bangladesh Getting Military Technology From Pakistan? Decoding The Growing Partnership

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Indian Speaker Calls Out Pakistan's Lies As Oxford Union Debate Descends Into Farce

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 29, 2025, 07:07 IST

Deepak's detailed account on X directly contradicted the statement released by the Pakistan High Commission in London, which claimed the Indian side had withdrawn

The final collapse occurred mere hours before the debate was scheduled for November 27. Image/Oxford Union

The highly anticipated debate at the Oxford Union on the motion, The House Believes That Indias Response to Pakistan is a Populist Strategy Sold as Security Policy", ended in public recrimination, with Indian speaker J Sai Deepak strongly alleging an organisational failure and a deliberate Pakistani gambit to avoid confrontation. His detailed account on X directly contradicted the statement released by the Pakistan High Commission in London, which claimed the Indian side had withdrawn.

Deepak revealed that the entire event was fraught with instability, beginning with the involvement of Pakistani nationals in key positions, specifically naming Moosa Harraj as the Oxford Union President (allegedly the son of Pakistans Minister of Defence Production) and Raza Nazar as the Treasurer. He noted that the original high-profile Indian speakers"former COAS Shri Naravane and Dr Swamy"pulled out due to unavoidable commitments just two days before the debate, forcing a scramble for replacements.

Recommended Stories

Despite the short notice, Deepak, who was prepared to argue the case for India, managed to secure the participation of Manu Khajuria and Pt Satish K Sharma from within the UK. The final collapse occurred mere hours before the debate was scheduled for November 27. Deepak states he received a call at 3:13 PM informing him that the Pakistani delegation, which included Hina Rabbani Khar and Khawaja Muhammad Asif, had not yet landed in London, prompting the Indian team to abandon the journey to Oxford.

The situation turned farcical when Deepak claimed to have received confirmation that the Pakistani delegation had, in fact, landed and was staying at a hotel in Oxford. This led him to issue a blistering attack on the Pakistani side for deserting the battlefield even before the battle begins", suggesting they lacked the courage to face a live debate. He further criticised the Oxford Union leadership for allowing the institution to be dragged in muck" and become a mouthpiece for the Pakistan High Commission.

Shiv Sena (UBT) lawmaker Priyanka Chaturvedi also took a dig at the Pakistani side.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Pakistan is crying again over an Oxford Union debate. This is for the record. Once again they have proved to be liars. Expecting any better from them was not even on my list  https://t.co/cOkaOylaWS Priyanka Chaturvedi (@priyankac19) November 28, 2025

In contrast, the Pakistan High Commission released a statement regretting that the Indian delegationinitially listed as General Naravane, Dr Subramanian Swamy, and Sachin Pilothad withdrawn at the last minute", handing a walkover" to the Pakistani side. They framed the Indian withdrawal as a lack of confidence in defending Indias security policy in a neutral and intellectually rigorous debate".

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 28, 2025, 20:19 IST

News world Indian Speaker Calls Out Pakistan's Lies As Oxford Union Debate Descends Into Farce

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
'No Longer With Us': Trump Confirms Death Of Guard Member Shot Near White House, Another Critical

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 07:07 IST

Sarah Beckstrom, one of the two National Guard members injured after an Afghan national allegedly ambushed them near the White House, has died.

File photos of US President Donald Trump/Sarah Beckstrom (AP)

One of the two National Guard soldiers injured in a targeted shooting near the White House on Wednesday has died, US President Donald Trump announced on Friday.

The attack, carried out by an Afghan national who officials say ambushed the troops during a patrol, has prompted sweeping federal reviews of asylum and immigration vetting procedures.

Recommended Stories

Trump confirmed the death of 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom of West Virginia, describing her as a highly respected, young, magnificent person."

He added, Shes just passed away. Shes no longer with us," noting that he had been informed shortly before speaking with US forces during a Thanksgiving call.

The second Guardsman, 24-year-old Andrew Wolfe, remains in critical condition.

The other young man is fighting for his life. Hes in very bad shape," Trump said.

BREAKING In a VERY Heartbreaking development Trump announces National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom just passed away at 20 years oldShes no longer with us This just happened WE WILL NEVER FORGET  pic.twitter.com/PTkUoRlHlg  MAGA Voice (@MAGAVoice) November 27, 2025

The shooting, according to officials, unfolded on Wednesday afternoon when the suspect, identified as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, drove cross-country to Washington, DC, and opened fire on the two soldiers as they patrolled near the White House grounds.

US Attorney for Washington, DC, Jeanine Pirro said the gunman ambushed the soldiers, firing a powerful .357 Magnum revolver at close range.

One Guard member was shot and fell to the ground before the shooter fired again, then turned the weapon on the second soldier.

Lakanwal was wounded when the Guardsmen returned fire and was later arrested. He remains hospitalised under heavy guard.

Trump forcefully blamed what he called Biden-era immigration failures, saying the alleged attacker was an Afghan national flown here by the previous administration, such a bad administration."

He added, His atrocity reminds us that we have no greater national security priority than ensuring that we have full control over the people that enter and remain in our country."

However, according to a government file reviewed by Reuters, the suspect was granted asylum this year under Trump.

Investigators have said the suspect previously worked in a CIA-backed unit in Afghanistan before being resettled in the US in 2021. He lived in Washington state with his wife and five children.

As part of the rapidly expanding probe, the FBI executed multiple search warrants across Washington state, seizing electronic devices including cellphones, laptops, and iPads.

This was a heinous act of terrorism," FBI Director Kash Patel said.

Pirro said the government intends to pursue terrorism charges and at a minimum" seek a life sentence. Following Beckstroms death, she indicated she would also consider seeking the death penalty.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Within hours of the attack, the administration moved to suspend all US immigration processing related to Afghan nationals and ordered an immediate review of all asylum cases approved under the Biden administration, as well as green cards issued to citizens of 19 countries.

ALSO READ | After DC Shooting, Trump Orders Review Of Green Cards Issued To People From 19 Countries

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 28, 2025, 06:45 IST

News world 'No Longer With Us': Trump Confirms Death Of Guard Member Shot Near White House, Another Critical

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
'Not Letting Anyone Meet Him': Imran Khans Sister Amid Rumours About Pakistan's Former PM's Health

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 07:17 IST

Khan's sister alleged that law enforcement agencies have been given extraordinary powers to stop and even harm those attempting to meet the former Pakistan prime minister.

Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khans sister Noreen Niazi (Credits: ANI)

Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khans sister Noreen Niazi on Friday alleged that the family has been kept completely in the dark about Khans health.

We dont know anything. They are not telling us anything, nor are they letting anybody meet him," Niazi said, describing a situation she called unprecedented in Pakistans political history. According to her, even senior PTI members who had a scheduled meeting with Khan were barred from entering the facility where he is being held.

Recommended Stories

Niazi revealed that the family has not been allowed to see him for nearly a month, a restriction she described as deeply distressing. We have not been allowed to meet him for the last four weeks We got to know that news was circulating in India that he had been killed," she said, adding that the silence from authorities has only fuelled anxiety.

The concerns about his health came as workers of Imran Khans Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) have been staging protests and maintaining a sit-in outside Adiala Jailwhere the former prime minister is currently heldas online speculation about his death spreads widely.

While prison officials have dismissed the rumours, Khans family and supporters insist that they have been consistently refused permission to see him, further fuelling their concerns.

Khans sister further alleged that law enforcement agencies have been given extraordinary powers to stop and even harm those attempting to meet the former Pakistan Prime Minister. The Police have been ordered to stop us and, I believe, also given permission to do to us whatever they want. This has never happened in Pakistan before."

Describing what she sees as a sharp decline in civil liberties and human rights standards, Niazi claimed that the treatment of PTI supporters, including women and elderly persons, has reached alarming levels.

#WATCH | Lahore, Pakistan | On rumours about PTI Founder and former Pakistan PM Imran Khans health, his sister, Noreen Niazi, says, We dont know anything. They are not telling us anything, nor are they letting anybody meet him. His partys people went there as they had a pic.twitter.com/bXbnhCTbBl ANI (@ANI) November 27, 2025

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

No one has ever disrespected women like this, nor has anyone been oppressed this way. This is the first time in Pakistan that these people have been allowed to beat up people like there wont be any consequences, without considering if its a child, an elderly person, or a woman in front of them."

Niazi stressed that the international community is aware of the situation unfolding in Pakistan, calling the moment one of the most troubling in the countrys recent political history.

About the Author Anushka Vats Anushka Vats is a Sub-Editor at News18.com with a passion for storytelling and a curiosity that extends beyond the newsroom. She covers both national and international news. For more stories, you can ... Read More

First Published: November 28, 2025, 07:05 IST

News world 'Not Letting Anyone Meet Him': Imran Khans Sister Amid Rumours About Pakistan's Former PM's Health

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
'They Just Poured Into...': Trump Says He Does Not Blame All Afghans For White House Shooting

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 07:15 IST

Replying to a question on whether the US President blames all Afghans, Trump said, "No, but we've had a lot of problems with Afghans."

US President Donald Trump (AFP)

US President Donald Trump on Thursday clarified that he does not blame all Afghans for the recent attack on two White House National Guard members, but he has a lot of problems with them.

Replying to a question on whether the US President blames all Afghans, Trump said, No, but weve had a lot of problems with Afghans. There was no checking! They just poured into the plane."

Recommended Stories

He further accused them of coming to the United States illegally. However, not blaming every Afghan national, Trump said, But many of them living here are legal. Yeah, I know the old story, many are wonderful  yeah, Im sure."

Trumps statement after it is believed that the suspect, whose initial identification matches a man from Washington state, appears to have immigrated to the United States from Afghanistan in 2021.

He has been identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national who entered the United States under Bidens Operation Allies Welcome.

One Of The Two National Guard Soldier Dies

A National Guard soldier wounded in a targeted shooting near the White House on Wednesday died, US President Donald Trump announced on Friday.

The attack, carried out by an Afghan national who officials say ambushed the troops during a patrol, has prompted sweeping federal reviews of asylum and immigration vetting procedures.

Trump confirmed the death of 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom of West Virginia, describing her as a highly respected, young, magnificent person".

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

He added, Shes just passed away. Shes no longer with us," noting that he had been informed shortly before speaking with US forces during a Thanksgiving call.

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 : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)

First Published: November 28, 2025, 07:10 IST

News world 'They Just Poured Into...': Trump Says He Does Not Blame All Afghans For White House Shooting

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Turkiye Meddles Again: FM Hakan Fidan Raises Kashmir Issue In Parliament Budget Speech

Reported By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 10:22 IST

Fidan used his budget speech to say Kashmir must be solved through international law and dialogue, a stance India has repeatedly rejected.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan. (REUTERS)

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, during a parliamentary budget session on 18 November in Ankara, referred to the Kashmir issue while speaking about regional conflicts in South Asia, saying it should be resolved on the basis of international law and through dialogue".

Fidans remarks came as he presented the 2026 budget for Turkiyes Ministry of Foreign Affairs before the Planning and Budget Committee. While the primary focus of the speech was the ministrys budget and foreign-policy priorities, the irrelevant reference to Kashmir underlined Ankaras continued interest beyond its immediate neighbourhood.

Recommended Stories

We continue to emphasise that the conflicts in the region, especially the Kashmir issue, must be resolved on the basis of international law and through dialogue," Fidan said in his speech.

The escalation between India and Pakistan in May once again demonstrated the importance of resolving conflicts in this region through dialogue," he added.

In May, after the precision strikes under Operation Sindoor carried out by the Indian armed forces targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, Turkiye was the first country to publicly back Islamabad.

The Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs said: FM of Turkiye @HakanFidan called DPM/FM @MIshaqDar50 to express Turkiyes solidarity with Pakistan against Indias unprovoked aggression violating Pakistans sovereignty and killing innocent civilians."

The ministry added that Fidan expressed concern over the deteriorating regional security situation", and that both ministers agreed to remain in close coordination on the evolving situation".

Fidans deliberate invocation of Kashmir during a budget speech is likely to be taken adversely by the Indian government, as India has on many occasions reiterated that Kashmir is not a dispute and is unquestionably an integral part of the country.

India has repeatedly rejected such statements, insisting that Jammu and Kashmir is an internal matter and urging Turkey to respect its sovereignty.

Turkeys recent engagement with the Kashmir issue draws from earlier interventions by senior Turkish leaders. In September 2025, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan again referred to Kashmir as an issue", urging that it be resolved under UN resolutions and through dialogue between the concerned parties. This reflects Ankaras continued attempt to frame the matter as one requiring international attention.

Rejecting Erdogans remarks at the UNGA, India had officially said: We reject such objectionable comments on matters that are internal to India. We have lodged a strong protest with the Turkish ambassador. Such unwarranted statements on Indias territorial integrity and sovereignty are unacceptable."

Who Is Hakan Fidan?

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Hakan Fidan has steered a multifaceted career spanning military service, academia, national intelligence, and now diplomacy. He headed the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency and went on to serve as the head of Turkiyes national intelligence agency for over a decade.

In June 2023, Fidan was appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs, becoming the first former intelligence chief to lead Turkiyes diplomacy in the contemporary era.

About the Author Ankur Sharma With over 15 years of journalistic experience, Ankur Sharma, Associate Editor, specializes in internal security and is tasked with providing comprehensive coverage from the Ministry of Home Affairs, p... Read More

First Published: November 28, 2025, 10:22 IST

News world Turkiye Meddles Again: FM Hakan Fidan Raises Kashmir Issue In Parliament Budget Speech

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Donald Trump Says He'll 'Permanently Pause Migration From Third World Countries'

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 10:48 IST

Trump said that he plans to permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries and pursue sweeping actions including denaturalisation and mass deportations.

A photo of Donald Trump (L)/ crowd of Afghan migrants as shared by Trump (R) (Photos: Social Media)

US President Donald Trump on Friday announced that his administration will work to permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries" to allow what he called the American system to fully recover."

In a lengthy post on Truth Social, Trump said the countrys technological progress had been undermined by current immigration frameworks.

Recommended Stories

Even as we have progressed technologically, Immigration Policy has eroded those gains and living conditions for many," he wrote.

Trump outlined a sweeping set of measures he said his administration intends to pursue, including the termination of what he called millions of Biden illegal admissions, including those signed by Sleepy Joe Bidens Autopen."

He added that the government would remove anyone who is not a net asset to the United States, or is incapable of loving our Country," and end all Federal benefits and subsidies to noncitizens of our Country."

He also pledged to denaturalise migrants who he said undermine domestic tranquility," and to deport any foreign national who is a public charge, security risk, or non-compatible with Western Civilization."

Trump described the effort as aimed at achieving a major reduction in illegal and disruptive populations, including those admitted through an unauthorised and illegal Autopen approval process."

Only REVERSE MIGRATION can fully cure this situation," he wrote.

He ended the post with a sharply worded Thanksgiving message:

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL, except those that hate, steal, murder, and destroy everything that America stands for  You wont be here for long!"

Before his announcement, Trump had posted an image showing a massive crowd, and wrote, This is part of the horrendous airlift from Afghanistan."

Donald Trumps announcement comes a day after two National Guard members were shot near the White House in an ambush that investigators say was carried out by an Afghan national.

One of the two guards died early this morning.

In his address to the nation, Trump blamed the attack on the Biden-era immigration vetting failures as he ordered a sweeping review of asylum cases.

The US President has already made cracking down on both legal and illegal immigration a centrepiece of his presidency, an opening to argue that even legal pathways like asylum pose security risks for Americans.

Further, less than 24 hours after the shooting, Trump officials began ordering widespread reviews of immigration policies.

According to the officials related to the Department of Homeland Security, the Trump administration was launching a review of all asylum cases approved under the Biden administration, as well as Green Cards issued to citizens of 19 countries.

Earlier this month, Donald Trumps administration revoked around 80,000 non-immigrant visas since its inauguration on January 20 for offences ranging from driving under the influence to assault and theft.

The administration has also adopted a stricter policy on granting visas, with tightened social media vetting and expanded screening.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Around 16,000 of the visa revocations were tied to cases of driving under the influence, while about 12,000 were for assault and another 8,000 for theft.

ALSO READ | Trump Calls Female Journalist Ugly Inside And Out Over Ageing Story

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 28, 2025, 10:15 IST

News world Donald Trump Says He'll 'Permanently Pause Migration From Third World Countries'

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Who Is Kasim Khan? Former Pakistan PM Imran Khans Son And Founder Of Mifu App

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 11:11 IST

Born to Imran Khan and Jemima, Kasim is the founder of Mifu App.

Rapid Read + Follow us On Google

Kasim Khan is the younger son of Imran Khan and his ex-wife, Jemima Khan. (Image: X/@Kasim_Khan_1999)

Amid growing speculation about Pakistans former Prime Minister Imran Khans well-being, his son, Kasim Khan, has come to the spotlight.

The chief of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, Imran Khan, has been languishing in jail since August 2023 on multiple charges, including corruption and terrorism. Amid widespread rumours circulating on social media claiming that he had been killed in custody, Kasim Khan stated in a post on X that his family had no proof of life," appealing for intervention from the international community.

Recommended Stories

Who Is Kasim Khan?

Kasim Khan is the younger son of Imran Khan and his ex-wife, Jemima Goldsmith, a British TV producer and screenwriter. The 26-year-old is the founder of the Mifu app. He officially unveiled his venture, Mifu Marketing, along with the launch of the Mifu app  a marketing platform  in 2023.

Through Mifu Marketing, Kasim aims to facilitate connections between influencers and brands using his app. Jemima and Imran has one more son, Sulaiman Isa Khan.

Kasim Khans Warning To Pakistani Authorities

On Thursday, Kasim Khan alleged that his father has been subjected to total isolation in jail for six weeks, with no family contact, no legal access and no proof of life." In a post on X, Kasim accused the Pakistani government of deliberately concealing Khans condition and violating court orders that allow his family to meet him.

My father has been under arrest for 845 days. For the past six weeks, he has been kept in solitary confinement in a death cell with zero transparency," Kasim wrote.

He said that despite clear judicial directions, officials had barred every attempt by Khans sisters to visit him. His sisters have been denied every visit, even with clear court orders allowing access," he added.

According to Kasim, the former premier has been completely cut off from the outside world. There have been no phone calls, no meetings and no proof of life. Me and my brother have had no contact with our father," he said, describing the situation as a severe escalation in restrictions imposed over the past month and a half.

Calling the blackout deliberate rather than procedural, Kasim alleged political motive behind the isolation.

This absolute blackout is not a security protocol. It is a deliberate attempt to hide his condition and prevent our family from knowing whether he is safe," he wrote.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

Issuing a warning to authorities, he mentioned, Let it be clear: the Pakistani government and its handlers will be held fully accountable legally, morally and internationally for my fathers safety and for every consequence of this inhumane isolation."

Kasims post ended with a plea, I call on the international community, global human rights organisations and every democratic voice to intervene urgently. Demand proof of life, enforce court ordered access, end this inhumane isolation and call for the release of Pakistans most popular political leader who is being held solely for political reasons."

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 : Islamabad, Pakistan

First Published: November 28, 2025, 11:11 IST

News world Who Is Kasim Khan? Former Pakistan PM Imran Khans Son And Founder Of Mifu App

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
Who Was Sarah Beckstrom? The 20-Year-Old National Guard Killed In White House Shooting

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 28, 2025, 11:39 IST

The 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom died of her wounds and her fellow Guardsman Andrew Wolfe is "fighting for his life."

Sarah Beckstrom, from Summersville, West Virginia, died on Thursday.

One of the two National Guard members, who was shot near the White House in an ambush that investigators say was carried out by an Afghan national, dies on Thursday, President Donald Trump confirmed.

The 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom died of her wounds and her fellow Guardsman Andrew Wolfe is fighting for his life."

Recommended Stories

Sarah Beckstrom of West Virginia, one of the guardsmen that were talking about, highly respected, young, magnificent person Shes just passed away. Shes no longer with us," Trump said in his first live remarks since the shooting.

.@POTUS announces that U.S. Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom of Summersville, West Virginia, one of the National Guardsmen savagely attacked yesterday in Washington, D.C., has just passed away.May God be with her family  pic.twitter.com/BEbAOxmJme  Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) November 27, 2025

Who Was Sarah Beckstrom?

According to The New York Times, Sarah Beckstrom, from Summersville, West Virginia, began her service on June 6, 2023. She was assigned to the 863rd Military Police Company, 111th Engineer Brigade of the West Virginia Army National Guard.

Beckstrom volunteered to work in the nations capital over the Thanksgiving holiday, Attorney General Pam Bondi told Fox News after the shooting.

She worked for the military police and joined the National Guard because she aspired for a career in the FBI, Beckstroms former boyfriend Adam Carr said, according to The NYT.

top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

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 : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)

First Published: November 28, 2025, 11:39 IST

News world Who Was Sarah Beckstrom? The 20-Year-Old National Guard Killed In White House Shooting

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
The Government has introduced a 15 percent digital services withholding tax on all payments made to offshore online platforms as part of efforts to regulate the fast-growing digital economy.

Finance Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube made the announcement while presenting the 2026 national budget on Thursday. The new tax is expected to affect millions of Zimbabweans who use streaming services, ride-hailing apps, online content platforms and satellite internet services.

Prof Ncube said the tax, which takes effect on 1 January 2026, is intended to promote fairness in the digital marketplace and safeguard the countrys revenue base as more services migrate online.

Most digital subscription fees, commissions and access charges are currently paid outside Zimbabwes borders without attracting Value Added Tax (VAT), giving foreign digital platforms an unfair competitive advantage over local service providers who are fully taxed within Zimbabwe, he said.

The digitisation of economies has increased the consumption of online services, most of which are supplied by offshore companies without a physical presence in Zimbabwe. These transactions are occurring outside our tax net, resulting in revenue leakages and inequitable competition with domestic businesses.

Under the new framework, banks and mobile money operators will be required to withhold the 15 percent tax at the point of payment, ensuring real-time collection and sealing long-standing loopholes that previously made enforcement difficult.

This means that whenever a customer pays for services such as Netflix, Spotify, Amazon Prime, ride-hailing apps, digital content subscriptions or Starlink satellite internet, the withholding tax will automatically be deducted before the payment is sent offshore.

Prof Ncube noted that similar measures have become standard in many jurisdictions as countries adapt their tax systems to digital commerce, adding that the policy is expected to broaden revenue sources while creating a level playing field for local companies competing with multinational tech giants.

However, the announcement sparked backlash, with some citizens expressing their frustration on social media.

Users argued that some platforms, such as Starlink and InDrive, already include VAT in their charges, raising concerns about potential double taxation. Others warned that the measure may push citizens to obtain foreign visa cards to make payments and bypass the new tax. CITE
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) says investigations into the US$4 million daylight robbery at Ecobanks Bulawayo branch in October last year indicate it was an inside job, with the culprits reportedly working with company security staff.

National Police Spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi revealed the development during a media briefing on Tuesday, adding that the police are working flat out to secure the extradition of the Vumbunu brothers, Abraham Temayi Vumbunu and Elijah Temayi Vumbunu, from South Africa.

The brothers were arrested by South African authorities on 5 July 2025.

Commissioner Nyathi said another suspect, Bhekani Mlilo, was successfully extradited from Botswana on 19 November 2025 and has since been remanded in custody.

We are now working flat out to bring in the Vumbunu brothers, he said.

The police are engaging South African authorities to finalise the legal and logistical processes required for extradition.

If somebody is arrested in a foreign country there are clear procedures and protocols to be followed. They have to appear before the South African court remanded for the Zimbabwe courts. So this is what is happening, Commissioner Nyathi explained.

He urged companies, especially in the financial sector, to carefully vet employees to prevent similar crimes. Some of these high-profile cases involve employees with inside information, he said.

Commissioner Nyathi cited a recent case in which a bakery driver sent to collect US$10 000 from Banket to Chinhoyi allegedly colluded with relatives and members of the security forces to stage a fake robbery.

In the process, they stole the companys money and shared it amongst themselves. Companies must not take things for granted, he said.

He added: We must not continue to allow employees to work with outsiders so that they can steal from the companys investments. CITE
The government has hightened taxpayers misery by hiking the value-added tax (VAT) rate to 15,5% as it hunts for an extra US$1,47 billion in revenue for 2026 in a move that will weigh heavily on the 23,9% of the economy that is compliant.

Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion minister Mthuli Ncube announced the increment while unveiling the 2026 National Budget that the government expects to collect revenue equivalent to US$9,4 billion next year, up from this years expected US$7,93 billion.

Ncubes VAT increase came hard on the heels of the release of the Zimbabwe Tax Perception Survey 2025, conducted by Zimbabwe Taxpayers Platform that revealed that nearly nine out of 10 citizens find that the tax burden no longer matches their ability to pay.

The survey noted that citizens want fewer and lower taxes overall, arguing that high tax rates and a myriad of levies are stifling disposable incomes and business growth.

VAT is an indirect tax on consumption, charged on the supply of taxable goods and services.

It is levied on transactions rather than directly on income or profit and is also levied on the importation of goods and services.

So, while VAT is ultimately paid by all consumers, including the 76,1% informal sector, the formal sector bears the brunt of the burden because only registered businesses are required to collect, account for and remit the tax to government.

Ncube said the hike was meant to allow a partial reduction in the intermediated money transfer tax (IMTT). Newsday
Colorado doesn't plan to transfer from state prison to federal custody a former county clerk who has become a hero to election conspiracy theorists following a request from the Trump administration, state officials say. The Colorado Department of Corrections said it is not seeking a transfer of Tina Peters, who was convicted last year of orchestrating a scheme in Mesa County to breach voting machine data driven by false claims of fraud in the 2020 election. "Transferring an individual is an action initiated by the Colorado Department of Corrections, not an outside entity," department spokesperson Alondra Gonzalez-Garcia told the AP. Asked by the Denver Post if that meant the federal request had been rejected, she said, "Yes, that is correct." The Federal Bureau of Prisons declined to comment.
A court in Peru has sentenced former President Pedro Castillo to 11 years in prison for rebellion and conspiracy, following his failed attempt to dissolve Congress and expand his own powers in 2022. Castillo's bid to shut down the legislature led to his removal from office in December of that year, and he has been in custody since then as his case moved through the courts. The episode set off widespread protests, especially in poorer areas where Castillo had significant support, and resulted in dozens of deaths, Reuters reports. Prosecutors had sought a 34-year sentence for Castillo. The decision can be appealed, per the AP .

Castillo, a leftist and former schoolteacher, denied the rebellion charges, telling the court that his attempt to dissolve Congress amounted to nothing more than reading a "document without consequence," since the country's security forces did not support his move. The verdict adds Castillo to a growing list of former Peruvian presidents who have landed behind bars; five ex-leaders have now been jailed in recent years. Just a day before Castillo's sentencing, former President Martin Vizcarra received a 14-year sentence for accepting bribes.

Two of Castillo's former ministers were also sentenced to 11-year sentences for the same crime. One of them, former Prime Minister Betssy Chavez, was granted asylum by Mexico and remains inside the Mexican embassy in Peru's capital, Lima. Peru severed diplomatic relations with Mexico over the asylum. After Castillo was ousted, his vice president, Dina Boluarte, took office, only to be removed herself in October after Congress declared her "morally unfit," per Reuters. The presidency is now held by Jose Jeri, who is expected to serve until July 2026. Peru's next presidential election is slated for April.
A Chilean national with a globe-spanning criminal record has pleaded guilty to stealing the purse of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem at a Washington, DC restaurant and will face deportation after he gets out of prison. Prosecutors say Mario Bustamante Leiva, 50, who has convictions for theft in the UK and Chile, stole Noem's Gucci bag containing her ID, passport, badge, and $3,000 in cash while she was dining with family at an upscale restaurant. His signed plea agreement says he stole from three people, including Noem, in the capital in April, the Washington Post reports. The other two victims were also women, one from Spain and one from Massachusetts.

He pleaded guilty to three counts of wire fraud and first-degree theft last week. The plea agreement acknowledges that he is "removable from the United States upon the completion of the sentence imposed in this case." The New York Post reports that Bustamante Leiva, who has been in custody since his April arrest, will be sentenced in March. "This individual is a career criminal who has been in our country illegally for years," Noem said in a statement provided to the Post through a spokesperson. "Unfortunately, so many families in this country have been made victims by crime, and that's why President Trump is working every single day to make America safe and get these criminal aliens off of our streets."

Authorities say Bustamante Leiva used Noem's stolen credit card at an Italian restaurant in Georgetown. According to charging documents, he drank at the restaurant until midnight then fell asleep for seven hours at an outdoor table, the Hill reports. His criminal history includes a three-year prison sentence for robbery in Chile in 1995 and at least seven theft convictions in London, where he was sentenced to 13 weeks in prison in 2013.
Homicide detectives in Trinidad and Tobago are investigating the suspected murder of an American man after reportedly going out to try to purchase marijuana. The victim has been identified as 43-year-old Christopher Brown, a builder from Silverthorne, Colorado, according to a local police report. Police were told that Brown had dinner and drinks with friends on Wednesday night in Castara, a small fishing village on the island of Tobago. He then left his friends, telling them he was going to buy marijuana, the police report said.

Shortly after 10:30pm local time, officers from the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service responded to a report that Brown was found unresponsive in the area, and he was later pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators believe he was stabbed, as they said there were several wounds about his body, and a metal object was found protruding from his back. Investigators are still trying to determine the motive for the killing. "I can confirm that a suspect is currently in custody," Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro told the AP on Thursday afternoon.

Tobago's Division of Tourism condemned the killing, saying this was "the first such act of violence" in the fishing village, which the officials said is known for being safe and welcoming. Trinidad and Tobago has recorded over 330 homicides so far this year, according to police statistics. Brown's murder was the ninth homicide of the year in Tobago, by far the smaller of the two island in both size and population. A state of emergency is currently in effect for the twin-island nation. Authorities implemented the measure in July, accusing a criminal network in prisons across the country of plotting to kill key government officials and attack public institutions.
Colorado State Sen. Faith Winter was killed Wednesday night in a multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 25 near Centennial, south of Denver, Gov. Jared Polis and other state officials have confirmed. The multi-vehicle accident also left three people injured, reports the Denver Post . Winter, a 45-year-old Democrat from Broomfield, served in the state House from 2015 to 2019 and moved to the Senate following her 2018 election win. Polis said he would order flags lowered to half-staff on the day of her memorial service. Legislative leaders from both parties expressed shock and sadness at her death.

"I have had the honor of working with her on many issues to improve the lives of every person and family in our great state, and tackling climate change," Polis said. "I am deeply saddened for her family, her friends and colleagues, and her community. Faith's work and advocacy made Colorado a better state." Senate President James Coleman and Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez highlighted Winter's work on behalf of mothers, families, and transit policy, praising her thoughtfulness and humility.

Winter is survived by two children, a son and daughter. She was engaged to marry former Democratic state Rep. Matt Gray. The Colorado Sun reports that Winter often brought her dog, Queso to the state Capitol and her daughter sold Girl Scout cookies outside the House and Senate chambers. Deputy John Bartmann of the Arapahoe County Sheriff's Office said the cause of the five-vehicle crash is being investigated and it is "going to take some time to figure out."
Vladimir Putin said Thursday that Russia is prepared to continue its assault on Ukraine "until the last Ukrainian dies," demanding that Kyiv surrender territory if it wants an end to the conflict. Speaking during a visit to Kyrgyzstan, the Russian president insisted his military is advancing on all fronts and declared it "practically impossible to hold back" the Russian army. He dismissed Ukraine's government as illegitimate and said signing any agreement with them would be "senseless," even as he suggested the latest US-brokered peace proposal could serve as a basis for future talks, the Telegraph reports.

Putin reiterated Russia's maximalist demands, including the surrender of the entire Donbas region, which is made up of Luhansk and Donetsk. "Some people demand to keep on fighting until the last Ukrainian dies, Russia is ready for that," Putin said. "If Ukrainian forces leave the territories they hold, then we will stop combat operations. If they don't, then we will achieve it by military means." He claimed Russian forces have encircled key Ukrainian cities and are making significant advances, though Ukraine disputes these battlefield assertions. Observers say that pressure from President Trump for Ukraine to accept a Russia-friendly peace deal has only emboldened Putin, who believes Ukraine's defenses are on the verge of collapse.

"Why compromise if you think you can win outright?" said policy analyst Dmitri Alperovitch, summarizing Putin's apparent calculation. The Institute for the Study of War, however, says data on the Russian advance suggests "a Russian military victory in Ukraine is not inevitable, and a rapid Russian seizure of the rest of Donetsk Oblast is not imminent," CNN reports. The US-based conflict monitor estimates that it would take Russia two years to seize the rest of Donetsk. Russia currently occupies about one-fifth of Ukraine, and the status of these territories remains the main obstacle in peace negotiations. Ukraine has rejected suggestions that it give up territory not already occupied by Russia.

Putin, who dismissed fears that he could attack other European nations in the coming years as "laughable," said a US delegation headed by Special Envoy Steve Witkoff is expected in Moscow next week and Russia is ready for "serious negotiation." Asked about the possibility of Donbas and the Crimea remaining under Russian control without being legally recognized as part of Russia, Putin said, "This is the point of our discussion with our American counterparts." After Putin's remarks, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Russia "scorned" efforts "to truly end the war," the BBC reports.
President Trump blasted a female reporter as a "stupid person" Thursday after she questioned his claims about the vetting process of an Afghan national suspected in the shooting of two National Guardsmen in Washington, DC. The exchange began when the reporter told Trump: "US officials say that the suspect worked very closely with the CIA in Afghanistan for years, that he was vetted and the vetting came up clean," Mediaite reports. Trump dismissed the suspect's vetting, saying, "He went cuckoo. I mean, he went nuts. It happens too often with these people."

He said: "There was no vetting or anything. They came in unvetted and we have a lot of others in this country and we're going to get them out," per Newsweek. The reporter then cited a recent report from the Justice Department's inspector general, which found that Afghans brought to the US had been thoroughly vetted by the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI. She pressed Trump on why he was blaming the Biden administration for the suspect's actions despite the vetting.

Trump responded sharply, "Because they let them in. Are you stupid? Are you a stupid person? Because they came in on a plane along with thousands of other people that shouldn't be here and you're just asking questions because you're a stupid person." Trump continued to criticize the process that allowed the suspect into the US, claiming it was "disgraceful" and that a law had been passed making it "almost impossible" to remove individuals once they were in the country. Rahmanullah Lakanwal came to the US in September 2021. He applied for asylum in December 2024 and it was granted in April this year, Newsweek reports.

Trump said his administration was considering deporting the suspect's wife and five children, the New York Times reports. When asked if he was blaming all Afghan nationals for the crime, the president said, "No, but there's a lot of problems with Afghans." He also criticized the Biden administration's handling of the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, saying it was a "mess" and that he would have handled it differently. The press conference was held after Trump announced the death of 20-year-old West Virginia National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom, who was shot on Wednesday. Another Guardsman, 24-year-old Andrew Wolfe, was also shot and remains in critical condition.
Anti-corruption units have raided the home, and reportedly also the office, of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's chief of staff, Andriy Yermak. The unprecedented searches at the heart of Ukraine's government come at a time when Kyiv is already under intense US pressure to sign a peace deal, the AP reports.

Two national agencies fighting entrenched corruption in Ukraine said their searches targeted Yermak. Oleksii Tkachuk, a spokesperson for Yermak, said the anti-graft agencies had not served Yermak a notice of suspicion, meaning he was not a suspect in an investigation. Tkachuk added that Yermak had not been told what the searches related to.

Yermak is a powerful figure in Ukraine and a key participant in talks with the United States. The BBC describes him as Zelensky's "right-hand man."
Quebec is pushing ahead with controversial new restrictions on public prayer and religious dietary menus in public institutions as part of a broader effort to reinforce state secularism. The measures, introduced in a bill by the ruling Coalition Avenir Quebec (CAQ), build on a controversial 2019 law that already barred judges, police, teachers, and other public servants from wearing religious symbols at work, per the BBC . That law is currently facing a challenge before Canada's Supreme Court, which will hear the case next year.

The new bill, dubbed "secularism 2.0," extends the ban on religious symbols to staff in subsidized daycares and private schools, blocks public institutions from offering only religious-based meals (like kosher and halal), prohibits collective prayer in public spaces without municipal approval, and bars face coverings for students and staff in all classrooms, including in daycares and universities, per the CBC. The move follows recent debates over public prayer at pro-Palestinian protests, with Quebec's minister for secularism, Jean-Francois Roberge, arguing that the rules are needed to keep public spaces from turning into places of worship.

Critics, including the National Council of Canadian Muslims and the opposition Parti Quebecois, accuse the CAQ of stoking division ahead of next year's provincial election. The CBC notes the CAQ has been sliding in polls, with the Parti Quebecois in the lead for two years. Secularismor laicite in Frenchhas been a defining issue in Quebec for decades, rooted in the province's move away from the Catholic Church's influence in the 1960s. While a recent poll found strong support for secularism among Quebecers, opponents argue the laws disproportionately affect religious minorities, particularly Muslim women.
In the wake of National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom's death , the Washington Post pieces together what is known about the 20-year-old. "Two years ago, [her] life was just getting started," the paper writes, noting that she only graduated high school in June 2023 and joined the Army National Guard that very same month. Beckstrom, 20, was one of two Guard members shot while on patrol near 17th and I streets on Wednesday. The other, Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, remains in critical condition.

Beckstrom, a West Virginia native who graduated with honors and played softball at Webster County High School, had been serving with the 863rd Military Police Company. She had been in DC since August as part of President Trump's decision to deploy the Guard to help address crime in the city. While the paper was unable to speak with her relatives, it has this:

"Public social media posts they have made over the past decade suggest that theirs is a tight-knit family. Even at 20, Beckstrom called her father 'Dadda.' She, her parents, a younger sister and an older brother often boasted about how proud of each other they were, and they regularly posted 'I love you' for all the world to see."

The New York Times managed to reach her father in advance of her death. "I'm holding her hand right now," Gary Beckstrom said Thursday. "She has a mortal wound. It's not going to be a recovery."

As for Wolfe, the Post has this update posted by his mother to a neighborhood Facebook group: "Andy's been out of surgery for a few hours. His brain is being allowed space to swell and this first 24 to 48 hours is the biggest right now. They have no clue about any lasting effects right now because we're in this very first stage. The first two weeks will be a waiting game. Right now he's surviving and alive. We got to see him in ICU and he's sedated. It feels like a nightmare and this doesn't feel real."

Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, has been arrested in connection with the shooting. The AP reports Jeanine Pirro, the US attorney for the District of Columbia, on Friday said the charges against him have been upgraded to first-degree murder.
Paris' Louvre museum has approved a ticket hike from 22 to 32 euros ($25 to $37) for non-EU visitors beginning in January to help finance an overhaul of the building whose degradation was exposed by the Oct. 19 crown jewels heist. The measure was announced by French President Emmanuel Macron earlier this year as part of a decade-long plan of renovation and expansion of the museum and approved Thursday by the Louvre governing board; the AP reports security breaches that allowed the $102 million theft highlighted the urgency of the situation.

From Jan. 14, nationals from outside the European Union will have to pay 10 euros more. Nationals from Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway, countries that signed up to the European Economic Area agreement, will be exempted from the hike. In 2024, the Louvre welcomed 8.7 million visitors, 77% of them foreigners. Top nationalities include people from the US (13%), China (6%), and Britain (5%) who are affected by the price hikes.

Earlier this month, Louvre director Laurence des Cars announced more than 20 emergency measures have started being implemented following the robbery. She said the Louvre's latest overhaul in the 1980s is now technically obsolete. The cost for the so-called "Louvre New Renaissance" plan is estimated at up to $933 million to modernize infrastructure, ease crowding and give the famed Mona Lisa a dedicated gallery by 2031.

Meanwhile, the AP separately reports a 39-year-old man arrested by French police earlier this week is thought to be the fourth member of the team that stole France's crown jewels on Oct. 19, the Paris prosecutor said Friday, meaning that the entire gang is now believed to be in custody. The prosecutor's statement didn't say what role, exactly, the man is thought to have played in the daylight heist, which was believed to have been the work of a four-person teamwith two people breaking into the museum's Apollo Gallery where the jewels were displayed and then being whisked away on motorbikes by two associates who waited outside. The haul hasn't been recovered.
Historians have finally put a name to the Nazi soldier in one of the Holocaust's most haunting photos. Known as "The Last Jew in Vinnitsa," the 1941 image (see it here ) shows a Nazi soldier aiming his pistol at a man kneeling on the edge of a body-filled pit; moments later, he will be among the dead. As the New York Times reports, the photo "became an iconic image of the Holocaust for the way it captured the banal savagery of mass slaughter." But until now, both the executioner and victim remained unidentified. The former has now been determined with 99.9% certainty to be Jakobus Onnen, 34.

The breakthrough came from Jurgen Matthaus, a retired researcher from the US Holocaust Memorial Museum, who published his findings in the Journal of Historical Studies. An initial article he wrote about the photo caught the attention of a relative of Onnen's. As Deutsche Welle reports, he contacted Matthaus and said the "horrifying image" had been known in his family for decades "because it shows an SS member who resembles an uncle of my wife, her mother's brother." He provided family photographs. AI technology confirmed the two men were the same, reports the Times.

The Times recounts what is known of Onnen, who joined the Nazi Party in 1931 and the SS a year later. He served at Dachau before joining one of the infamous Einsatzgruppen death squads responsible for mass shootings of Jews in the Soviet Union. Onnen was killed in 1943, likely by Soviet partisans. Though the photo was originally thought to be taken in Vinnitsa, Ukraine, using evidence from a soldier's diary found at the Holocaust Museum, Matthaus determined it was actually taken in Berdichev, about 50 miles away. The victim's identity remains unknown, but researchers point out his face is even clearer, meaning it's possible he could eventually be identified as well. (Read the full Times article, which has much more on the photo and how it emerged.)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced Friday the resignation of his powerful chief of staff, Andrii Yermak, who was also the country's lead negotiator in talks with the US, after Yermak's residence was searched by anti-corruption investigators. It's being seen as a blow for the Ukrainian leader that risks disrupting his negotiating strategy at a time when Kyiv is under intense US pressure to sign a peace deal nearly four years after Russia's full-scale invasion. Yermak has long been a trusted confidant of Zelensky, who has resisted persistent pressure to replace him; indeed, CNN reports he "has often been seen as Ukraine's second most powerful man."

CNN has this from Zelensky's daily TV address on Friday:

"I want no one to have any questions about Ukraine today. Therefore, today we have the following internal decisions. First, there will be a reboot of the Office of the President of Ukraine. The head of the office, Andriy Yermak, has written a letter of resignation."

The AP reports Zelensky said he would begin consultations Saturday to appoint a new chief of staff. Yermak's name did not appear on a list of officials that Zelensky said would make up the Ukrainian delegation for the next round of negotiations with the United States. The delegation will now be jointly led by Andrii Hnatov, the head of Ukraine's armed forces; Andrii Sybiha, Ukraine's foreign minister; and Rustem Umerov, head of Ukraine's security council, Zelensky said. He said negotiations would happen "soon."

Two national agencies fighting corruption in Ukraine said their search targeted Yermak. Oleksii Tkachuk, a spokesperson for Yermak, said the anti-graft agencies had not served Yermak a notice of suspicion, meaning he was not a suspect in an investigation. Yermak was not told what the searches related to, Tkachuk said. Two weeks prior to Friday's raid, the agencies announced a wide-reaching investigation into what CNN calls "an alleged kickback scheme concerning Ukraine's critical energy infrastructure" that has already been linked to two of Zelensky's ministers.
Fairbanks, AK (99701)

Today

Sunny this morning then becoming cloudy during the afternoon. High -27F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Cloudy with snow developing after midnight. Low -26F. Winds light and variable. Chance of snow 100%. Snow accumulating 1 to 3 inches.
Fairbanks, AK (99701)

Today

Sunny this morning then becoming cloudy during the afternoon. High -27F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Cloudy. Snow likely late. Low -26F. Winds light and variable. Chance of snow 100%. Snow accumulating 1 to 3 inches.
GUNMA, Nov 28 (News On Japan) - A 69-year-old security guard was lightly injured on November 28th when he was attacked by a bear inside a public restroom located in front of JR Numata Station in Gunma Prefecture.

The incident occurred at around 1:20 a.m., when the man was about to leave the restroom on the east side of the station. According to police, he came face-to-face with a bear that was peering inside through the entrance. When he fell backward and attempted to retreat, the bear attacked him, but it fled immediately after he shouted loudly and kicked his legs in resistance.

The man suffered multiple scratches on his right leg from the knee to the ankle but was able to walk on his own to the police box in front of the station to report the incident.

The restroom is located in a residential area, and the bear has not been sighted since. Police continue to monitor the surrounding area and urge caution.

Source: TBS
KYOTO, Nov 29 (News On Japan) - From high above Kyoto, the citys autumn colors can be seen spreading vividly across the landscape, with trees throughout the area turning a deep, striking red that stands out even from the air.

Moving across the sky toward Arashiyama, one of Kyotos most popular sightseeing destinations, the view opens onto the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge. Looking beyond the bridge, the slopes behind it are covered in a sweeping gradient of red and gold. From the river to the mountains, the autumn foliage is clearly visible and beautifully layered.

Although the sun is currently shining from the opposite direction, a closer look reveals leaves sharply defined in bright shades of red. Many visitors have come to witness the scenery, and the streets below are filled with people capturing the moment on their cameras.

The colors in Kyoto appear deeper and more vivid by the day, enhancing the areas traditional atmosphere. Even though it is a weekday, large crowds were seen around Togetsukyo Bridge earlier, and the surrounding areaknown as a popular spot for strolling and sampling street foodsis bustling with tourists.

The late-afternoon sun is now beginning to cast long beams across the district, but visitors continue to gather in large numbers. I personally visited Arashiyama two weeks ago on my own, and even then the crowds were significant, with long waits to enter shops and restaurants.

The foliage has since grown even richer and more vibrant, suggesting that this coming weekend is likely to attract even more visitors eager to experience Kyoto at the height of its autumn beauty.

Source: YOMIURI
Rising demand for heating products showcases resilience of China's foreign trade

People's Daily Online) 14:49, November 28, 2025

In late November, workers at Gengxin Appliance Industry Co., Ltd. in Cixi, a county-level city administered by Ningbo in east China's Zhejiang Province, were busy assembling heaters destined for overseas markets.

According to Li Qiang, the company's foreign trade manager, heater orders are booked through the end of December. In the first 11 months of this year, the company's heater exports totaled about 100 million yuan (about $14.12 million), nearly a 10 percent year-on-year increase.

Workers assemble heaters in a factory in Cixi, east China's Zhejiang Province. (Photo/CCTV News)

Demand for products such as home appliances, heaters, and holiday gifts is currently on the rise. Technological innovation is driving changes in the structure of foreign trade and pushing the upgrading of export-oriented products. With Black Friday arriving and the Christmas shopping season approaching, demand is set to remain strong. All of this underscores the resilience of China's foreign trade.

"There are now more than 100 companies in Cixi dedicated to producing and exporting heaters, including several major players with annual exports exceeding $10 million," said Huang Weiqun from the inspection division of Cixi Customs under Ningbo Customs.

Li noted that by building a smart vertical warehouse and developing a new enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, the company has increased its storage capacity by 2.5 times and boosted monthly output to 100,000 units, giving it both the confidence and capability to take on more orders.

The rise in heating demand is also benefiting the home textile sector. According to an executive from Alibaba.com, the peak season for heating products runs from September to January. During this September, daily searches for down comforters jumped 155 percent, electric blanket sales rose 224 percent, and transactions for Raschel blankets increased 132 percent, compared with the previous month.

The increase in overseas orders comes from identifying shifting consumer needs. Relying on technological innovation to create customized products has become a consensus among foreign trade firms seeking to upgrade their offerings and expand their markets.

An executive from China's home appliance manufacturer Midea Group said the commercial heating products of Midea Building Technologies, a major business segment under Midea Group, have posted strong export growth this year, with export volume up 31.6 percent year on year. Growth has been led by Europe and emerging markets.

According to Liu Xiangdong, deputy director of the Economics Research Department of the China Center for International Economic Exchanges, China's export products are moving upmarket, providing a boost to the development of foreign trade. This shift is raising the global value-chain position of "Made in China" products and encouraging domestic companies to invest more in R&D and cultivate new quality productive forces.

TikTok Shop data shows that during its Black Friday promotion, items such as portable power stations, heated earmuffs and gloves, hand warmer power banks, and USB keyboard heating pads saw particularly strong sales.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
OSAKA, Nov 29 (News On Japan) - Izumisano City in Osaka has taken a concrete step toward establishing a baby hatch, sending municipal officials to observe operations at Jikei Hospital in Kumamoto, the first institution in Japan to introduce the service 18 years ago.

Izumisano Mayor Chiyomatsu Daiko said in May that he views the baby hatch as the last line of protection for newborns whose parents cannot raise them, adding that the city intends to move steadily toward realizing the plan. The municipality aims to install the facility at Rinku General Medical Center, allowing infants to be anonymously placed into care when parents are unable to look after them due to various circumstances.

Ahead of the November 25th visit, Chiyomatsu expressed hopes that staff would learn from the hospitals extensive experience, noting that discussions with the Jikei leadership would help clarify how Rinku General Medical Center could implement a similar system.

On November 26th, a delegation of 19 people from Izumisano City and Rinku General Medical Center visited Jikei Hospital, where nurses and doctors explained the procedures that take place after a baby is entrusted. Participants said the scale of the operation was greater than expected and that hearing about nearly two decades of accumulated practice carried significant weight.

Izumisano plans to submit a supplementary budget to the city assembly in December, adding 300 million yen to the existing 800 million yen set aside for research and preparation. If approved, the city hopes to begin operating the facility as early as the next fiscal year. Should the plan be realized, it would become only the third such installation nationwide.

However, Jikei Hospital Chairman Hasuda Ken, who received the visiting delegation, cautioned that government-led implementation poses steep challenges. He recalled that when Jikei launched the baby hatch 18 years ago, the initiative was hospital-driven and neither the national government nor Kumamoto City was especially receptive. Hasuda said he hopes Izumisano can become a breakthrough case, but stressed that ensuring anonymity is the most difficult issue, noting that public services in their current form generally require disclosure of name, address, and other identifying information.

Izumisano also intends to accept confidential births, allowing mothers to give birth without revealing their identity outside the hospital. How the city will manage these sensitive operations under a government-led framework is expected to draw continued attention.

Source: MBS
NAHA, Nov 29 (News On Japan) - A new local production in Kitanakagusuku Village is shining a light on the little-known life of Taro Higa, the Nisei from Hawaii who led efforts after the war to send pigs to Okinawa, even as his contributions have long remained overshadowed and largely forgotten.

The village drama, which will be performed over two days starting tomorrow, centers on Higa, who was born in Hawaii in 1916 and spent his childhood in Kitanakagusuku, where his grandparents lived. During the Battle of Okinawa 80 years ago, he called out to residents in the Okinawan language to persuade them to surrender and save their lives, and in the years after the war he became the driving force behind an aid effort that delivered 550 pigs to a starving Okinawa.

Despite his significant achievements, Higas life has not been widely known. This year marks 80 years since the end of the war and 40 years since Higas death, prompting local residents to undertake a village production to bring his story to a wider audience. One organizer said residents all know the story of pigs being sent from Hawaii, yet the key figure behind the effort, Higa, has remained obscure.

True to the name of a village theater, every role is performed by residents of Kitanakagusuku. Few have any experience acting. The lead role of Higa is played by Tadashi, who last performed on stage at a kindergarten play. Balancing rehearsals with raising three children and work at the village office, he handles local senior welfare programs, including the unique village initiative known as the Kitanakagusuku Talent Agency, which registers talented elderly residents. Tadashi was scouted by stage director Kiyonaga, whom he himself had originally recruited for community programs, and was surprised to learn he would be cast as the lead. Though he felt pressure, he said he had no choice but to take on the role once he accepted it.

Visiting the rehearsal site was nonfiction writer Tetsuro Shimojima, author of the original story depicting Higas life. Shimojimas previous work, the musical "When the Pigs Came from the Sea," was staged overseas, but he said he regretted having focused too narrowly on the seven people who transported the pigs, overlooking Higas essential role. He noted that Higas name invariably surfaced in accounts of the aid effort, yet the full picture remained unclear even to him for many years.

Higa served in a Nisei unit during World War II and was wounded in combat against Nazi Germany in Italy. While performing in outreach programs at Japanese American internment camps across the United States, he met Pastor Nicholson, who was attempting to send goats to children suffering in wartime Japan. Learning of the devastation in Naha, Higa argued that Okinawa needed help most urgently and proposed sending pigs instead of goats.

Higa launched a relief movement in Hawaii and personally traveled to Okinawa, where the delivery of pigs brought tremendous hope to local communities struggling in the aftermath of war. The Okinawan relief efforts led by Higa and others in Hawaii continued for seven years, providing support for the islands recovery.

Those who knew Higa describe him as someone who never sought recognition and never boasted of his achievements, even to the point of being forgotten or misunderstood as having done little. Shimojima said Higa embodied the spirit of Okinawans, serving others without placing himself at the center.

The village production portrays Higas determination, his challenges, and his deep love for his family as he gradually formed his identity as an Uchinanchu while dedicating himself to the wellbeing of others. One resident involved in the play said the production also seeks to convey the emotional connection shared by Okinawans around the world.

Shimojima said he hopes young people, living in an era marked by discrimination, exclusion, and self-interest, will learn from Higas way of life.

The village play "The Story of Taro Higa" will be performed tomorrow and the following day at the Kitanakagusuku Village Central Public Hall at the times shown.

Source: OTV
An NJ Transit bus struck a pole on Thanksgiving, Nov. 27, 2025, in Cinnaminson, New Jersey. Photo courtesy of the Cinnaminson Fire Department

An NJ Transit bus slammed into a utility pole on Thanksgiving morning in southern New Jersey, authorities said.

The bus crashed at 9:45 a.m. Thursday on Broad Street at Taylors Lane in Cinnaminson, the township fire department reported on Facebook.

The bus was empty and the driver wasnt hurt, the fire department said. The bus and pole were severely damaged, the post said.

The road was closed for five hours, according to the fire department.

The Cinnaminson Police chief didnt immediately reply to an email Friday looking for the cause of the crash.

The Delran Fire Department assisted Cinnaminson firefighters and volunteers, the Facebook post says.
A federal jury has awarded $1.7 million to two employees of the Camden Housing Authority after finding they were wrongfully terminated in retaliation for reporting alleged wrongdoing at the agency.

Gary Evangelista, director of security, and Kaberia Fussell, a housing specialist, were fired on Dec. 19, 2018, after raising concerns about unpaid rent, misuse of housing units, possible theft, fraud and preferential treatment for certain tenants.

Rather than investigate the claims, the agency dismissed both workers, according to the lawsuit.

In 2020, Evangelista and Fussell filed a whistleblower suit in federal court, arguing that their terminations violated their First Amendment rights by punishing them for protected speech and union activity.

A U.S. District Court judge in 2024 denied the agencys motion for summary judgment on several claims, allowing the case to go to a jury.

On Nov. 18, a jury found the dismissals were retaliatory and ordered the housing authority to pay monetary damages.

Jurors ordered the housing authority to pay Evangelista $510,891 for lost earnings, $750,000 for compensatory damages, and $2,500 for punitive damages.

The housing authority was ordered to pay Fussell $450,000 in compensatory damages and $2,500 for punitive damages.

Fussell, who appealed her termination and returned to work, said the verdict offered long-awaited vindication, according to a report in The Philadelphia Inquirer.

Evangelista, who had struggled afterward to find steady employment, described the award as giving me my life back after six years, the report said.
A person with a handgun fatally shot a dog that was attacking a woman in Newark on Thanksgiving morning, authorities said.

Police received a call about 9:10 a.m. that a dog had bitten a woman in the 200 block of S. 9th Street.

An armed concerned citizen at the scene fired a handgun at the dog to stop the attack against the victim, a police spokesperson said, adding that the dog was killed.

The victim was taken to University Hospital in Newark with injuries not considered life threatening.

The shooter remained at the scene and was not charged. The incident remains under investigation, police said.

NJ Advance Media Reporter Vashti Harris contributed to this report.
Snow is in the forecast for parts of New Jersey on Tuesday, though roughly half the state could see all rain or a mix of snow and rain. AccuWeather.com and National Weather Service

Parts of northern New Jersey could see at least an inch of snow from a winter storm on Tuesday that could also bring a mix with rain and snow through central parts of the state.

The National Weather Services latest forecast issued Friday afternoon shows the highest probability for accumulating snow primarily north and west of the I-95 corridor.

Snow is in the forecast for parts of New Jersey on Tuesday, though roughly half the state could see all rain or a mix of snow and rain. AccuWeather.com and National Weather Service

The storm is expected to be all rain in areas south and east of I-95, the weather service said.

There remains uncertainty given this being a few days away, the weather service said. However, the overall set up is not very favorable for significant snowfall near and south/east of the I-95 corridor.

Snow is in the forecast for parts of New Jersey on Tuesday, though roughly half the state could see all rain or a mix of snow and rain. AccuWeather.com and National Weather Service

AccuWeathers first forecast map for Tuesdays storm shows northwestern New Jersey with 1 to 3 inches of snow, along with rain, snow and ice for the I-95 corridor.

AccuWeathers long-range forecast for next week also includes another storm with a similar setup for next weekend.

Snow is in the forecast for parts of New Jersey on Tuesday, though roughly half the state could see all rain or a mix of snow and rain. AccuWeather.com and National Weather Service

For the rest of this weekend, sustained winds of 15 to 25 mph with gusts reaching 30 to 40 mph will continue through early evening on Friday before weakening overnight.

Overnight lows will drop into the upper 20s inland and lower 30s near the coast under mostly clear skies.

Saturday will bring much calmer conditions with high pressure settling over the state, producing sunny skies and lighter winds around 5 to 10 mph.

High temperatures will remain below normal in the lower 40s.

Rain is expected to move into New Jersey on Sunday as a frontal system approaches from the west.

Precipitation may begin as a mix of wet snow and rain across northern areas Sunday morning, but temperatures will quickly rise.

A band of rain is expected to spread over the area Sunday afternoon through early evening.

Temperatures Sunday afternoon will range from the 40s inland to the low 50s at the coast, with gusty winds of 25 to 30 mph possible near coastal areas.

The rain will exit Sunday evening, followed by a reinforcing shot of colder air Sunday night into Monday.

Monday will be dry but chilly, with high temperatures in the low 40s and breezy northwest winds gusting to around 30 mph.

Overnight lows Monday will fall into the lower to middle 30s.

High pressure will return for the second half of next week, bringing generally dry conditions through Friday with the exception of a cold frontal passage on Thursday.

Temperatures are expected to remain below normal throughout the period.

Current weather radar
Watertown, NY (13601)

Today

Occasional snow showers. Low 12F. Winds W at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of snow 90%. Snowfall around one inch. Heavier amounts in favored snowbelt locales..

Tonight

Occasional snow showers. Low 12F. Winds W at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of snow 90%. Snowfall around one inch. Heavier amounts in favored snowbelt locales.
Watertown, NY (13601)

Today

Mainly cloudy with snow showers around this morning. High 18F. Winds WNW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of snow 40%..

Tonight

Cloudy early with some clearing expected late. A few flurries or snow showers possible. Low around 10F. Winds WNW at 10 to 15 mph.
A Swiss tourist killed by a three-metre bull shark on the NSW Mid North Coast and her boyfriend, who is lucky to be alive after the terrifying attack, have been named.

Livia Mulheim, 25, died and Lukas Schindler, 26, was seriously injured after being mauled by a shark during a swim at Crowdy Bay about 6.30am on Thursday.

The shark bit Mr Schindlers leg as he tried to save his girlfriend.

Livia Mulheim, 25, was killed by the bull shark. Picture: Supplied

Shark attack survivor Lukas Schindler. Image: Instagram

Although Mr Schindler managed to drag his dying girlfriend back to shore with him, she could not be saved.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Swiss couple had spent the past several months travelling around Australia, visiting beaches and coastal towns in NSW and WA.

Days earlier, the couple were in Noosa, posting on social media about the incredibly memorable bed and breakfast they stayed in together after spending a few days camping.

Mr Schindler was in Australia on an exchange semester from Switzerland.

He also ran the Syney Marathon, posing at the finish line with his medal.

Ms Mulheim was understood to have visited Australia several times.

A woman has died in a shark attack at Crowdy Bay. Picture: NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service

A witness saw the couple and called triple-0, and she was guided by paramedics to apply a tourniquet to Mr Schindlers thigh, potentially saving his life.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Despite best efforts from paramedics, Ms Mulehim was declared dead at the scene.

A man in his 20s (pictured) was injured trying to save a woman from a fatal shark attack. Picture: 9News

Mr Schindler was flown in a Westpac rescue helicopter to John Hunter Hospital in a critical condition.

He is now in a stable condition, a hospital spokesperson confirmed.

The tourists, visiting from Switzerland, were filming dolphins with a GoPro while they were swimming at the beach, possibly inadvertently recording the horror shark attack at the same time.

Police will now review the footage to determine which shark was responsible for the mauling.

Experts believe it was a mature bull shark.

Lukas Schindler fought the shark but his girlfriend could not be saved.

Kylies Beach is a secluded spot in Crowdy Bay near a popular camping spot, which is not patrolled by lifeguards.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The tourists arrived at the campsite Wednesday and were believed to be travelling in a vehicle hired from Queensland.

Beaches have since been closed until further notice.

Police will review GoPro footage from the couple. Picture: 7News

Calls for lifesaving shark kits

In the wake of the tragedy, a group of surfers and shark attack survivors are calling for support to roll out lifesaving emergency response kits on beaches across Australia.

A year after creating Community Shark Bite Kits to help victims of shark attacks in the Port Macquarie-Hastings area, founder Danny Schouten has deployed more than 150 emergency kits on beaches across NSW, Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Shark attack survivors Toby Begg and Kai McKenzie have thrown their support behind the project.

Each kit is designed to help control life-threatening bleeding in the case of a dangerous encounter with a shark.

There are calls to roll out shark kits to prevent further tragedies. Picture: Ryan Daly.

Medical equipment specialists TacMed supplies the kit contents, which include a tourniquet, two conforming bandages, two large dressings, an emergency thermal blanket, gloves, a whistle, and step-by-step instructions on how to treat a shark bite.

When a shark attack happens, every second counts, Mr Schouten said.

A shark bite kit provides tools that can help control bleeding and hopefully increase someones chance of survival. With the support of communities and donors, we can get shark bite kits on every beach around the country.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its about Australian beaches being well prepared for when these attacks happen and making our coastline a safer place for everyone. Were not going to stop doing what we love, so we just have to be better prepared.

Mr Begg said: Shark bite kits are important because they have the potential to be lifesaving, specifically to stop massive bleeding until emergency help arrives.

I know from my own experience that the application of a tourniquet and having the means to manage a traumatic situation could make all the difference when seconds count. Having one nearby can turn a tragic accident into a survivable event.

Mr McKenzie, said: The shark bite kits are a great idea that could really save someones life. I was lucky to have someone with such experience to save me, but there will come a day where that wont be the case and a shark bite kit would help the chances of surviving dramatically.

NSW Ambulance said the passerbys tourniquet potentially saved the tourists life. Picture: 7News

Witness likely saved tourists life

NSW Ambulance Superintendent Josh Smyth described the incident as tragic.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He thanked the witnesses who jumped in to render first aid to the couple.

I need to (give) a shout out to the bystander on the beach who put a makeshift tourniquet on the males leg (which) potentially saved his life and allowed NSW Ambulance paramedics to get to him and render the first aid, he told reporters.

The courage from some bystanders is amazing in the situation and  to put yourself out there is very heroic.

The community  rely on those things.

Speaking to NewsWire, a MidCoast Council spokesperson said the council was working alongside National Parks and Wildlife staff and Emergency Services during the investigation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

MidCoast Councils Mayor Claire Pontin has expressed her sadness at the loss of life and extended her condolences to the families involved, they said.

Consulate General of Switzerland in Sydney told news.com.au: We can confirm that two Swiss nationals were involved in a shark attack in Australia. One Swiss national lost her life, and another Swiss national was injured.

We are in contact with the local authorities and are supporting the relatives within the framework of consular protection.
The University of Exeter has been recognised for its contribution to skills development in the region after winning two awards for its degree apprenticeship programmes at the Tech South West Awards, held at Sandy Park.

Exeter received the Commitment to Diversity Award and the Supporting Talent Award, with judges praising the university for what they described as a truly impactful talent pipeline bridging academia and industry, filling skills gaps while widening participation.

The panel also highlighted the universitys efforts to diversify the tech sector and the impact this work is having on employers across the South West.

The University of Exeter is the largest provider of degree apprenticeships in the region and was among the first in the UK to offer them.

The programmes allow school leavers and adults looking to upskill to gain a Russell Group education while working in paid roles, removing many of the financial barriers associated with traditional university study.

READ NEXT: Standout performances wow crowds at Exeter Racecourse charity raceday

The apprenticeships include Level 6 and 7 Digital and Technology Solutions programmes, covering areas such as data analysis, cyber security, software engineering and business analysis, along with the Level 7 Senior Leader Apprenticeship used widely across the tech sector.

Dan Hallam, Head of Degree Apprenticeships at the University of Exeter, said the awards reflected the universitys commitment to supporting the regions talent pipeline.

He said: On what was a great night, it was such an honour to receive two Tech South West Awards for Commitment to Diversity and Supporting Talent, values that are at the heart of our work.

We are particularly proud of our work to support the diverse talent within our local communities, which is why so many of our apprentices and employer partners are based in the South West.

This years awards, attended by hundreds of tech leaders, founders and investors, celebrated organisations driving innovation across the regions growing tech sector.

Devon-based Altilium Clean Technology emerged as the nights biggest winner, taking home three awards, including the top accolade.

Other multiple winners included Deciphex for its AI and digital pathology technology and Sora Aviation for innovation in aviation engineering.

Several Exeter-area organisations were also among those recognised on the night. The Supporting Talent Award, jointly won by the University of Exeters Degree Apprenticeships, also acknowledged the programmes role in building critical digital skills for the regions employers.

Exeter-based Our Rainwater Limited received one of the regional Cluster Awards, highlighting the breadth of innovation emerging from the city.

Tech South West founder Dan Pritchard said the awards reflected the strength of the South Wests tech ecosystem, noting the regions progress in fields ranging from clean energy to marine technology and artificial intelligence.

The University of Exeter says its apprenticeship success aligns with its wider Strategy 2030 commitments, which include expanding access to education, supporting innovation and strengthening partnerships that benefit local communities.
Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On Nov. 26, WeRide and Uber officially announced the launch of fully driverless Robotaxi operations in Abu Dhabi, marking the first commercial deployment of Level-4 autonomous ride-hailing services in the Middle East, according to a post on WeRide's WeChat account.

The rollout makes Abu Dhabi the first city outside the United States where Uber has activated a completely driverless service, supported by what is described as the world's first city-level license for fully unmanned robotaxi operations issued outside the U.S.

The milestone underscores the UAE's accelerating push to deploy autonomous mobility at scale, made possible through long-running collaboration among WeRide, Uber, the Abu Dhabi Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), and local fleet operator Tawasul.

Photo source: WeRide

Public service begins immediately on Yas Island, where the robotaxis are operating without safety drivers onboard. Riders can be matched with a WeRide vehicle through UberX or Uber Comfort, or summon one directly via a new "Autonomous" categorythe first dedicated self-driving option Uber has ever introduced worldwide.

WeRide secured a federal license in the UAE in October 2025 authorizing fully driverless commercial robotaxi operations. The Integrated Transport Center (ITC) later issued Abu Dhabi's first unmanned robotaxi commercial permit to WeRide and Tawasul, enabling the two companies to jointly operate the service through the Uber platform during the initial phase.

With the new licenses, commercial operations, and rising vehicle-use efficiency, WeRide and Uber expect their Abu Dhabi robotaxi fleet to reach per-vehicle breakeven in the near term.

The deployment also sets the stage for an aggressive expansion across the Middle East. WeRide and Uber plan to scale their joint autonomous vehicle fleet to several thousand vehicles over the next few years, with ambitions to reach tens of thousands by 2030.

WeRide holds a four-year head start in Abu Dhabi's autonomous driving market, having begun public robotaxi operations there in 2021. In 2023, it became the first technology company in the UAE to obtain a national-level autonomous driving license covering all vehicle types, permitting testing and operations on public roads across the federation.

The two companies first launched their robotaxi collaboration in Abu Dhabi in December 2024, creating the largest commercial autonomous ride-hailing service outside China and the United States. Their partnership expanded in July 2025 to cover nearly half of Abu Dhabi's core urban areas, including Al Reem and Al Maryah Islands. By the end of 2025, WeRide and Uber aim to bring the service to even more of the city. WeRide currently operates around 150 autonomous vehicles across the Middle East.
American Inertia A Highway Is Crumbling. New York Cant Agree on How to Fix It. This triple cantilever was an engineering marvel when it was built from concrete and steel more than 70 years ago. A looping video shows traffic on all levels of the Brooklyn-Queens Expressways triple cantilever: foot traffic on the promenade, vehicles on the lower Queens-bound and Staten-Island-bound levels, plus more cars on Furman Street below. But the structure was designed for far less traffic than the 130,000 cars and trucks that cross it every day. A 3-D model of the triple cantilever fades into the video. Its now exceeded its lifespan, and decades of increasingly heavy trucks have caused the concrete to weaken. The model shows a fly through from a view up high of the triple cantilever to the lower levels. Hundreds of steel mesh sheets keep crumbling concrete from falling on drivers below. The model shows steel mesh sheets in the middle section of the triple cantilever, as seen from Furman Street. City officials declared in 2016 that this decrepit cantilever needed to be completely overhauled. It hasnt happened. The model shows steel mesh sheets in the southern section of the triple cantilever as seen from Furman Street.

The triple cantilever runs along the edge of Brooklyn Heights, a wealthy and politically connected neighborhood. It stands as a symbol of resistance to Robert Moses, the power broker who rammed highways through communities.

When Mr. Moses tried that approach here in the 1940s, Brooklyn Heights residents pushed back, and Mr. Moses rerouted the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway around them.

At the top sits the Brooklyn Heights Promenade, a cherished landmark with skyline views where generations of New Yorkers have come for their first date.

Below, two levels of traffic jut out like drawers pulled from a dresser. The highway is the main artery between Brooklyn and Queens, and it is part of Interstate 278, the only road that connects New Yorks five boroughs.

The cantilever, which opened in 1954, was designed to be used for 50 years. The risks only go up as it continues to deteriorate year after year, even as its life span has been extended with interim measures. While city officials and transportation engineers say imminent collapse is not a threat, other catastrophes could still strike, like concrete falling off and hitting vehicles.

Since 2018, two New York City mayors  Bill de Blasio and Eric Adams  have announced that they would fix this vital artery. But both administrations were unprepared for the ferocious community opposition to their ideas on how to proceed. Both struggled to build any consensus at all as local residents countered with their own ideas. The endless back and forth led to more delays and inertia.

Traffic on the triple cantilever passes through Brooklyn Heights. Erin Schaff/The New York Times

The standoff over the B.Q.E. has become, more broadly, a symbol of the power that local communities wield over critical infrastructure projects around the nation.

Though community opposition is hardly new, it is thriving today as residents have become more nimble and sophisticated at influencing projects, or halting them entirely. They strategize about just who to target with their ads and protests, assemble technical experts and consultants to argue on their behalf, and extend their reach with email blasts, online petitions and social media.

In Los Angeles, a plan to widen the 710 Freeway, one of the nations busiest freight corridors, was canceled in 2022 amid community opposition. A major street improvement project in Detroit was paused last summer, in part over the publics concerns about its design, while state officials took another approach. And a Buffalo project championed by New York Gov. Kathy Hochul to reconnect communities divided by a highway stalled recently after a state court ruled in favor of critics.

This community pushback is often characterized as NIMBYism  the not in my backyard impediment to change  but the reality is more nuanced. Many Brooklyn residents say they are not against improving the B.Q.E., and, in fact, are fighting for a better future with less traffic and more space for people.

But now, time is running out for the triple cantilever.

A highway in decay

The cantilever structure anchors a 1.5-mile stretch from Atlantic Avenue to Sands Street that is owned by the city. The rest of the 16-mile highway belongs to the state.

N.J. I-278 Manhattan Queens B.Q.E. N.Y. City-owned section Sands St. Atlantic Ave. B.Q.E. Staten Island Brooklyn I-278 3 miles I-278 NEW JERSEY Queens B.Q.E. Manhattan City-owned section Sands St. NEW YORK Atlantic Ave. Brooklyn Staten Island B.Q.E. I-278 3 miles Source: OpenStreetMaps. The New York Times

Even before the latest effort, state transportation officials had sought to rehabilitate the cantilever section in 2006. They dropped the project in 2011, citing fiscal concerns and other priorities. That left the problem to the city.

The triple cantilever was increasingly flagged for potential safety hazards, said Bojidar Yanev, a former city transportation official who oversaw inspections from 1989 to 2018. The structure was unraveling, he said.

Since at least 1996, the city has fastened metal mesh sheets to the underside of the roadway, particularly below joints, as a stop-gap measure to hold crumbling concrete in place and prevent accidents.

JOINT Steel mesh sheets to hold crumbling concrete in place JOINT JOINT Steel mesh sheets to hold concrete in place JOINT Photo by Helmuth Rosales/The New York Times

The growing areas protected by the mesh sheets became the most visible sign of the triple cantilevers decay. It was not easy to inspect the internal structure, which was enclosed in concrete like a catacomb, Dr. Yanev said.

Inspectors cut openings into the walls of the cantilever in 2016, finding that water and road salt had penetrated the structure at the joints. This caused the steel rebars in the concrete to corrode and expand, forcing chunks of concrete to fall off. Without major structural intervention, this degradation progressively weakens the triple cantilevers strength.

In September, Times reporters captured video of the undersides of the triple cantilever to understand the structures current state.

Analysis of the footage revealed hundreds of steel mesh sheets placed along the structures undersides, including at the cantilevers deteriorated joints, to hold the concrete in place.

PROMENADE QUEENS-BOUND Over the years, road salt and water have penetrated the cantilevers joints critical to the structures integrity causing damage to the internal steel framework. STATEN ISLAND-BOUND Joint FURMAN ST. Along the nearly half-mile triple cantilever, The Times counted hundreds of steel mesh sheets, mostly beneath the two upper levels. Undersides of the triple cantilever Joints QUEENS-BOUND STATEN ISLAND-BOUND FURMAN STREET A Times inspection revealed that nearly all of the joints already a weak point in bridges  show deterioration. PROMENADE QUEENS-BOUND Over the years, road salt and water have penetrated the cantilevers joints  critical to the structures integrity  causing damage to the internal steel framework. STATEN ISLAND-BOUND Joint FURMAN ST. Along the nearly half-mile triple cantilever, The Times counted hundreds of steel mesh sheets, mostly beneath the two upper levels. Joints Undersides of the triple cantilever QUEENS-BOUND STATEN ISLAND-BOUND FURMAN STREET A Times inspection revealed that nearly all of the joints  already a weak point in bridges  show deterioration. PROMENADE QUEENS-BOUND STATEN ISLAND-BOUND Joint FURMAN ST. Along the nearly half-mile triple cantilever, The Times counted hundreds of steel mesh sheets, mostly beneath the two upper levels. Undersides of the triple cantilever Joints STATEN ISLAND-BOUND FURMAN STREET QUEENS-BOUND A Times inspection revealed that nearly all of the joints already a weak point in bridges  show deterioration. PROMENADE QUEENS-BOUND STATEN ISLAND-BOUND Joint FURMAN ST. Undersides of the triple cantilever Along the nearly half-mile triple cantilever, The Times counted hundreds of steel mesh sheets, mostly beneath the two upper levels. Joints STATEN ISLAND-BOUND FURMAN STREET QUEENS-BOUND A Times inspection revealed that nearly all of the joints already a weak point in bridges  show deterioration. Note: Locations of steel mesh sheets are based on videos captured in September by The Times of the triple cantilevers undersides. The New York Times

City officials say the triple cantilever is safe until at least 2029, with current protective measures. They closely monitor the structure and have taken steps to stabilize it, including making repairs and installing sensors to ticket overweight trucks. After that time, the city may have to further restrict traffic to reduce weight on the cantilever.

First wave of ideas

Mayor de Blasios administration presented two options in 2018 to rebuild the cantilever, touching off the fiercest battle over the B.Q.E. since it was built.

Polly Trottenberg, then the city transportation commissioner, told residents in Brooklyn at the time that none of the options are going to be very lovable, and thats the challenge we face.

One option would rebuild the highway lane by lane and reroute traffic around the construction. The more controversial proposal, favored by the city, would erect a temporary six-lane highway over the promenade while the lower decks were rebuilt.

Both options would mean losing access to the promenade for years, but the temporary highway would also bring traffic, noise and pollution right to the doors of Brooklyn Heights.

Citys idea: Temporary highway Existing Concept BROOKLYN HEIGHTS PROMENADE BROOKLYN BRIDGE PARK FURMAN ST. BROOKLYN HEIGHTS PROMENADE BROOKLYN BRIDGE PARK FURMAN ST. BROOKLYN HEIGHTS A temporary highway would be built over the promenade. BROOKLYN BRIDGE PARK FURMAN ST. BROOKLYN HEIGHTS A temporary highway would be built over the promenade. BROOKLYN BRIDGE PARK FURMAN ST.

Furious residents rallied to save the promenade. They raised tens of thousands of dollars to fund their campaign, hired public relations and lobbying consultants, and started a petition that garnered more than 70,000 signatures.

Of course, the promenade itself was born from an earlier fight with Mr. Moses. In 1942, the Brooklyn Eagle newspaper learned that a new highway could cut through the neighborhood and warned: Plan for Express Highway Through Heights Is Shocking.

Residents demanded that it be pushed toward the industrial waterfront and suggested building a double-decker highway to take up a smaller footprint, and a roof to cover the noise and fumes  which became the promenade.

Mr. Moses later wrote that the two shelves of the cantilevers carrying commercial traffic and the overhanging cantilever roof for the promenade and park were designed for the greatest benefit to the Heights.

1953 2025 A view of the promenade then and now. The New York Times archives (left); Bedel Saget/The New York Times

This time, many Brooklyn residents, as well as architects and urban planners, looked to places like San Francisco, Seattle and Rochester, N.Y., that have torn down or repurposed highways to reconnect neighbors and create more housing, parks and transit.

Two alternatives to the citys ideas illustrate how Brooklyn residents see this as an opportunity to make radical changes that would benefit their neighborhoods and the city.

Mark R. Baker, a lawyer, businessman and parks activist, proposed in 2019 to move all the traffic to street level and enclose it in a ventilated tunnel. The cantilever would become a three-level park, called the Tri-Line, similar to Manhattans High Line.

We had to protect the promenade, which is one of the most spectacular open spaces in New York City or the world, really, Mr. Baker said.

Alternative idea: The Tri-Line Existing Concept BROOKLYN HEIGHTS PROMENADE BROOKLYN BRIDGE PARK FURMAN ST. BROOKLYN HEIGHTS BROOKLYN BRIDGE PARK PROMENADE FURMAN ST. BROOKLYN HEIGHTS PROMENADE BROOKLYN BRIDGE PARK The highway would be relocated under the park. FURMAN ST. BROOKLYN HEIGHTS PROMENADE BROOKLYN BRIDGE PARK The highway would be moved under the park.

Roy Sloane, a graphic artist and advertising executive, advocated for his earlier idea from 2010 for a tunnel, which would help divert traffic away from the cantilever section.

The Cross Downtown Brooklyn Tunnel  which would become the new alignment for Interstate 278  would alleviate the traffic and pollution that spills off the B.Q.E. onto streets in the area. The triple cantilever could then be rehabilitated for cars and light trucks going between neighborhoods, and, with less traffic, nearby sections of the highway could also be turned into boulevards.

Through traffic is the issue for the residential neighborhoods that are parallel to the B.Q.E., Mr. Sloane said.

Alternative idea: The tunnel Existing Concept MANHATTAN Sands St. City-owned section Atlantic Ave. Governors Island Upper Bay BROOKLYN  mile MANHATTAN City-owned section Sands St. Atlantic Ave. BROOKLYN  mile MANHATTAN Sands St. City-owned section B.Q.E. Exit 30 Atlantic Ave. Governors Island Upper Bay A tunnel would be built. BROOKLYN B.Q.E. Exit 24  mile MANHATTAN City-owned section Sands St. B.Q.E. Exit 30 Atlantic Ave. A tunnel would be built. BROOKLYN B.Q.E. Exit 24  mile

Other notable concepts included one by Bjarke Ingels Group to transform the triple cantilever into BQ-Park, a grander version of Mr. Bakers Tri-Line. The City Council, working with Arup, an engineering firm, floated an idea to demolish the triple cantilever and replace it with a three-mile bypass tunnel.

After hearing from residents, Scott Stringer, then the city comptroller in 2019, jumped in with a proposal to limit the cantilever to trucks, while adding bus and bike lanes and a park.

City officials promised to consider all these ideas. Mr. de Blasio, a former Brooklyn councilman with deep ties to the borough, convened a panel of experts to study the B.Q.E.

The panel reported in January 2020 that the cantilever was in worse shape than believed and called for safety measures, including removing two of the six traffic lanes to reduce vehicle weight.

The steel and concrete triple cantilever has deteriorated over the years, and various ideas to renovate or overhaul it have failed to gain traction. Haiyun Jiang/The New York Times

Carlo A. Scissura, who led the panel, said the city was not ready to choose among the various concepts without more comprehensive engineering studies. It would have just been like, Oh, this looks beautiful, lets just do it,  he said.

When the coronavirus gripped New York in March 2020, resources shifted to the health crisis, and the momentum to fix the B.Q.E. was lost.

Shortly before leaving office, Mr. de Blasio said the city would postpone a permanent solution and instead spend more than $500 million to shore up the B.Q.E. for 20 years.

Second wave of ideas

After Mr. Adams became mayor in 2022, he decided the B.Q.E. could no longer wait. He hoped to tap into federal infrastructure funds unlocked by the Biden administration and start construction within five years.

Mr. Adams had opposed the citys temporary highway idea in 2019 as Brooklyn borough president. And his new administration presented three new concepts  The Stoop, The Terraces and The Lookout  that shifted the focus to open space.

The Stoop grew out of community interest in BQ-Park, the idea proposed by Bjarke Ingels Group in 2019. City officials hired the firm to help pressure test BQ-Park, only to find that it could not be built because of infrastructure constraints. The Stoop was developed as an alternative concept, but was later shelved amid criticism from residents about the design.

Citys idea: The Stoop Existing Concept BROOKLYN HEIGHTS BROOKLYN BRIDGE PARK PROMENADE FURMAN ST. BROOKLYN HEIGHTS PROMENADE BROOKLYN BRIDGE PARK FURMAN ST. A two-story highway would have a deck extending from the promenade, with access to the park. BROOKLYN HEIGHTS BROOKLYN BRIDGE PARK PROMENADE FURMAN ST. A two-story highway would have a deck extending from the promenade, with access to the park. BROOKLYN HEIGHTS PROMENADE BROOKLYN BRIDGE PARK FURMAN ST.

Vishaan Chakrabarti, an architect and urbanist, said that many of the visions for the B.Q.E. did not fully consider engineering and cost constraints. Communities get enamoured with ideas that arent viable, and then they start thinking worse of the ideas that are viable, he said.

City officials said the B.Q.E. was an important economic artery, and that without it, trucks would jam nearby streets. They tried to strike a balance between a safe, modern highway and quality-of-life concerns, they said.

Since 2022, they have held 30 public meetings about the B.Q.E. In response to feedback, they committed to a plan that would not impact the promenade or Brooklyn Bridge Park, or require taking private property. They helped secure a $5.6 million federal grant to improve neighborhoods along the state-owned sections.

Still, many Brooklyn residents complained about a lack of transparency. They said many of their questions were not fully answered and their suggestions went nowhere.

As public discussion evolved over the years, three broad groups of stakeholders emerged: neighbors, dreamers and pragmatists.

The neighbors saw an opportunity to improve public transit and to reduce the impact of traffic on their health, safety and climate. The dreamers went further and envisioned tearing down the highway for more housing, businesses and parks, and shifting to more sustainable ways to move people and freight. The pragmatists focused on maintaining a vital traffic corridor that would still be needed in the future and fixing a cantilever that had become a safety hazard as soon as possible.

Three broad groups of stakeholders of the B.Q.E. project are neighbors, dreamers and pragmatists  each with its own vision for the future of the expressway. Bedel Saget / The New York Times

A leading voice of the neighbors was Lara Birnback, the executive director of the Brooklyn Heights Association, who said the city should develop a more holistic, forward-thinking solution. The association, which is part of the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway-Environmental Justice Coalition, has called for a corridorwide plan.

Our perspective at this point is, lets not spend billions and billions of dollars cementing the status quo, no pun intended, by shoring up the cantilever for 100 years, Ms. Birnback said.

In the dreamer camp was the Institute for Public Architecture, which highlighted the harmful legacy of the B.Q.E. through community meetings, an oral history project and a documentary by Adam Paul Susaneck, an urban planner. The dreamers asked: What would a future without the B.Q.E. look like?

Antonio Reynoso, the Brooklyn borough president, said he saw a future with more freight moving on the waterways and less reliance on polluting highways like the B.Q.E. He told city transportation officials that he would like them to explore the option of tearing down the cantilever. But he said that option was never presented in community meetings.

QUEENS MANHATTAN Cantilever BROOKLYN Red Hook Terminal Buttermilk Channel QUEENS MANHATTAN Cantilever BROOKLYN Red Hook Terminal Buttermilk Channel QUEENS MANHATTAN Cantilever BROOKLYN Red Hook Terminal Buttermilk Channel Aerial photo by Vincent Alban / The New York Times

Pragmatists like Samuel I. Schwartz, a former chief engineer for the city Transportation Department who established a transportation research program at Hunter College, urged city officials to immediately fix the cantilever and leave amenities like parks to be added later. He pointed to the Williamsburg Bridge as a cautionary lesson. In April 1988, it was shut down for more than a month after decades of neglect, causing widespread chaos.

There should be urgency, he said, because something is going to happen if nothing is done.

Third wave of ideas

Many New York projects have run into opposition, like the $10 billion plan to replace the Port Authority Bus Terminal that was substantially revised last year with community input. Community opposition is a way of life, Mr. Schwartz said. It doesnt mean we stop.

But the B.Q.E. has often seemed adrift, without a strong champion at the helm to build consensus. Communities have a right to speak out, and the job of government is to hear the voices and then whittle it down into something that works, Mr. Stringer said.

Brooklyn Councilman Lincoln Restler said the Adams administration has seemed more interested in checking a box than really collaborating with the community. Any plan for the B.Q.E., he added, faces multiple layers of government review and approvals and will require community support to move forward. Weve got a long way to go, he said.

Cars in a traffic jam near the north end of the triple cantilever during rush hour in September. Haiyun Jiang/The New York Times

In 2024, the Adams administration presented another concept for the B.Q.E.  the citys third attempt  this time emphasizing an engineering solution: a two-level, stacked highway that would be supported on both sides.

Citys idea: Stacked highway Existing Concept BROOKLYN HEIGHTS BROOKLYN BRIDGE PARK PROMENADE FURMAN ST. BROOKLYN HEIGHTS PROMENADE BROOKLYN BRIDGE PARK FURMAN ST. BROOKLYN HEIGHTS A two-level highway would be supported on both sides. BROOKLYN BRIDGE PARK PROMENADE FURMAN ST. A two-level highway would be supported on both sides. BROOKLYN HEIGHTS PROMENADE BROOKLYN BRIDGE PARK FURMAN ST.

Marc Wouters, an architect and urban planner, countered with yet another idea. In 2019, he had partnered with the Brooklyn Heights Association on a plan to protect the promenade. Since then, he has spent thousands of hours working on his own to take field measurements, build 3-D models and test engineering scenarios.

The result is the Streamline plan, which would be quicker to build, cost less than other options, and have minimal impact on the promenade and surrounding area, Mr. Wouters said. It would move all traffic to an expanded bottom deck and repurpose the upper deck for bike lanes and a park.

Im hoping that it advances because it does seem to check a lot of boxes off for the community, he said.

Alternative idea: Streamline plan Existing Concept BROOKLYN HEIGHTS BROOKLYN BRIDGE PARK PROMENADE FURMAN ST. BROOKLYN HEIGHTS PROMENADE BROOKLYN BRIDGE PARK FURMAN ST. BROOKLYN HEIGHTS BROOKLYN BRIDGE PARK PROMENADE Traffic would be rerouted to an expanded lower level. BROOKLYN HEIGHTS PROMENADE BROOKLYN BRIDGE PARK Traffic would be rerouted to an expanded lower level.

Last month, Mayor Adams urged Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy to start the environmental review process for the B.Q.E., which would consider a range of plans and allow construction to begin in 2029. After a fix for the B.Q.E. languished for decades, the Adams administration advanced this project further than ever before to build a safe, resilient highway, said Anna Correa, a spokeswoman for Mr. Adams, this week.

But a new mayor, Zohran Mamdani, will take over in January and may have his own ideas. Mr. Mamdani knows that protecting the safety and stability of the B.Q.E. is an urgent priority for the city, said his spokeswoman, Dora Pekec. After years of patchwork fixes that have only offered temporary fixes, the Mamdani administration will work to deliver a permanent solution for the city-owned sections of the B.Q.E. that both meets community needs and preserves this essential transportation corridor, she said.

That will not be a quick or easy process. Big hurdles remain, including how to pay for the project. It was passed over for federal funding in 2024 and could cost up to $5 billion, depending on the plan chosen.

I think the B.Q.E. has just bedeviled and frustrated everybody whos ever driven on it, looked at it, and worked on it  its like a curse, Ms. Birnback said.

An aerial view of the triple cantilever. Bedel Saget/The New York Times

Note: The ideas illustrated in the story are schematic interpretations by The New York Times, based on the original proposals. Video at the top of this article by Todd Heisler. Additional work by Nico Chilla.
DEPUTY John Clendennen, Fine Gael TD for Offaly has welcomed confirmation of 10,000 in funding for the Offaly Public Participation Network (PPN) for its project entitled Offaly Integration and Co Creation under the 2025 Integration Fund, announced by Minister of State for Migration, Colm Brophy TD.

The 2025 Integration Fund provides 3.6 million in total to 117 community-based projects nationwide, supporting initiatives that foster inclusion, understanding, and participation among migrants and local communities.

Welcoming the announcement, Deputy Clendennen said, This is a very positive development for Offaly. The Offaly Integration and Co Creation project by the Offaly Public Participation Network reflects the strong community spirit and inclusivity that our county is known for. This funding will support initiatives that help migrants and local residents work together, share experiences, and strengthen our communities. I want to commend everyone involved in the Offaly PPN for their leadership and commitment to integration.

READ NEXT: Offaly Arts Office opens 2026 grants and announces information clinics

The Integration Fund, managed by the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, brings together the former International Protection Integration Fund and Communities Integration Fund. Since their inception, the funds have provided close to 10 million to over 1,000 projects across Ireland.

Announcing the successful projects, Minister of State Colm Brophy said, I am delighted to announce the list of successful local groups who will receive funding from the Integration Fund today. The Integration Fund has been established for local community groups and civil society organisations who have been working tirelessly to promote and further integration within Irish society. Carrying out this work in an increasingly divisive world deserves to be recognised and commended. It is only through greater understanding and working together as local groups that we can improve integration and make Ireland a better and more tolerant country to live in for everyone.

Deputy Clendennen added, I want to acknowledge all the team at Offaly PPN and the great work they do. Initiatives like this show how national policy can make a tangible difference at a local level. Offaly continues to demonstrate leadership in building inclusive communities, and I am delighted to see our local organisations being recognised and supported.

READ NEXT: Coming soon! Pick up the latest edition of Offaly Life magazine
The CEO of Offaly Domestic Violence Support Services (ODVSS) has said that the organisation has seen a significant rise in domestic violence cases in recent times.

CEO Anne Clarke said that the organisation saw a rise of a thousand more client contacts between 2023 to 2024, according to their end of year report.

"Our service is a bit different than other services in that we also support male victims of domestic abuse.

"We also support family abuse, where if there's a brother or sibling that may be sharing a house....we also support people around adult child-parent violence...if there's adult children perpetrating abuse on parents....so we're a little bit different, it's not just intimate partner relationships it's inclusive of all family violence".

Anne explained that the housing crisis and cost-of-living are an example of factors for domestic abuse and they are pressure points for families, but says "however, if domestic abuse, if that power and control is present in the relationship, it will be there regardless of any pressure point.

"For sure, we have seen an increase in the number of adult to child abuse and parents presenting to the service.....absolutely, we've seen that rise happening over the last number of years and it's year in, year out, we're seeing parents having to access that support potentially having to get either a barring order or a protection order against a child because of that abuse and fear within the home.

"Obviously it's a different situation where a lot of adult children are living at home because they can't afford to buy homes or rent homes on their own so potentially that does then leave parents susceptible if abuse has already been present and it increases that risk for parents.

"Economic abuse is a significant part of domestic abuse and coercive financial control is a significant part...a lot of women may not be able to leave because they can't afford to be able to sustain themselves outside of that home.

"In the past we would have had women who might have had to return back because they can't either pay the rent or feed the children, they can't do both.

"To them it's about their children having a bed to sleep in and food to provide for them and potentially they do have to sometimes return back into that relationship".

Anne said that she knows this because in almost 84% or 85% of cases that are presented to them, they will have financial abuse attached to them.

"So some women, not all, may not be able to leave because of that financial dependency".

READ NEXT: Extension approved for national school in Tullamore town

Anne said that the organisation has seen women coming to them to escape all sorts of abuse, "coercive control is very much there in nearly every single case that comes in the door".

The organisation based in Tullamore, works across Offaly to help victims of domestic abuse in many different ways.

"We do one-to-one support, which is confidential. We do court accompaniments to court for any of the court orders that are needed. We also do all the court paperwork that's needed for that whole process.

"We provide outreach support within the community, so if anyone can't access our main office here in Tullamore, we go out to all the different locations around Offaly and provide that support out there.

"Again, all confidential. We have three safe houses in different areas of Offaly that provide safe accommodation for women who potentially have to leave their abusive relationship.

"They are supported by a designated safe house project worker. We have a children's hub here as well, where we provide one-to-one support to children. We also provide therapeutic group support to children via our Help Enhance Healing Programme.

"We also provide play therapy and equine therapy for support and along with that, we run a teen dating violence awareness campaign throughout all the schools in Offaly.

"Most recently, we just held our seminar on teen dating violence in the Tullamore Court [Hotel] where we had over 300 young students attend.

"We provide free counselling as well for clients. We also have an ethnic minority community development project and that's for the five counties in the Midlands; Roscommon, Longford, Laois, Offaly and Westmeath, where we look to support ethnic minority women and help to break down barriers that may prevent them from seeking support.

"We do training for hairdressers and we call that Dyeing to Talk, so we create new pathways of referrals into the service and have a whole-of-community response for working towards the zero tolerance of domestic abuse within the community.

"We also have two hot-lines, we have a hot-line that is open from 9am to 5pm and we also have a text support line for those who may not be able to talk on the phone but need to have that text support from one of our support teams."

Anna said that the organisation currently has a red flag campaign happening during the 16 Days of Action which started on Monday, November 24 and runs right through to December 10.

"We have red flags all around the county, over 80 flags attached to polls showing people what is a red flag is.

"It could be isolation, monitoring everything you're doing, maybe controlling where you go, who you see, being threatening to the point where you're in fear in that home and you're not feeling safe.

"So all these red flags are around the county to help people see what abuse is and we need to make it more visible.

"But predominantly we would see everything from physical abuse to sexual abuse, to coercive control to financial abuse, to psychological abuse, to mental abuse, to religious abuse, to social abuse. All of those things.

The 16 days of activism, according to Anne, is the elimination of violence against women and children and it is a global movement and Ireland is part of it.

"Nearly every service in the country are part of doing some form of awareness around those aspects of violence against women.

Anne said that ODVSS has an event coming up on December 4 by Jacqueline Connolly, who wrote an amazing book called Deadly Silence and she'll be reading from that in the Tullamore Library on Thursday, December 4, at 5.30pm. Jacqueline's sister, Clodagh Hawe, was murdered in her own home along with her three children by Alan Hawe.

"That is a free event, but people would have to contact us for tickets, and they can do so by emailing us on info@odvss.ie or by phoning 05793 51796.

If you or anyone you know has been affected by any of the topics discussed in this article, you can contact Offaly Domestic Violence Support Service on their helpline number which is: 05793 51886 or their text support line which is: 086 441 9154.
Shanghai (Gasgoo)- AVATR Technology (Chongqing) Co., Ltd. has formally filed for an initial public offering on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, marking the first time a state-backed Chinese new energy vehicle (NEV) maker has lodged a listing application with the bourse. The companyjointly founded by Changan Automobile, Huawei and CATLhas appointed CITIC Securities and CICC as joint sponsors for the deal.

Photo source: AVATR

Financial disclosures show the company is expanding rapidly. AVATR recorded 12.208 billion yuan in revenue in the first half of 2025, nearly doubling year on year. Vehicle sales remained the core driver, contributing 11.49 billion yuan, while an additional 718 million yuan came from services and technologies such as assisted-driving solutions, ecosystem offerings, after-sales support and components.

The filing also highlights AVATR's deepening ties with Huawei. Last August, the company agreed to acquire a 10% stake in Huawei's subsidiary, Yinwang, for 11.5 billion yuana move reinforcing their technical and product co-development alliance. According to AVATR chairman Wang Hui, the number of jointly developed models with Huawei is expected to increase from one to four by 2026, signaling an expansion of the partnership at a time when China's intelligent NEV ecosystem is consolidating around major technology platforms.

Changan Automobile has previously told investors that AVATR will continue to operate independently, leveraging but not relying solely on its strategic partners while progressing toward its own listing. The company reiterated its intention to go public after completing a Series C fundraising round last December, indicating a target listing window in 2026.

By submitting its IPO application now, AVATR has taken a significant step toward that plan, laying the groundwork for a potential debut in Hong Kong as early as the second quarter of 2026.
Media Release 19 November 2025 For immediate release. THE OLD GARAGE LAUNCHES MELBOURNE'S FIRST BARISTA MADE COFFEE SUBSCRIPTION Melbourne coffee lovers, your daily caffeine fix just got a serious 
Leipzig, 28.11.2025 - Conveying Engineering & Consulting GmbH (CEC) is strengthening its cooperation with the Berufsf?rderungswerk (BFW Leipzig) and sending out a clear signal of 
Sarah Bovee does crafts with her 4-year-old son, Ryan, at their home in Oregon City. Bovee, drawing on her own experiences with opioid addiction and recovery, is a peer support specialist and doula for mothers with substance use disorders. Bovee says support from a doula and addiction specialist changed the tape in my head and helped her overcome some of the shame and stigma of battling substance use disorder through her pregnancy. Leah Nash/InvestigateWest

Every year, a group of Oregon health care professionals gathers for a grim exercise  reviewing every case in which a mother died during or soon after pregnancy. This past February, they reported a troubling finding: Mental health conditions and substance use were causing more of those deaths than any other factor.

Most of the deaths were suicides or overdoses. Some of the women were homeless. Many faced discrimination or fell through cracks in the health care system due to the complexity of their needs.

These are tragic cases, said Dr. Mark Tomlinson, a maternal-fetal specialist who chairs the Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Review Committee, created by the state Legislature in 2018. Sometimes seeing opportunities that could have been done differently, that could have prevented this  its hard to look at these things.

The committees work is part of a nationwide effort to better understand the countrys troubling growth in pregnancy-related deaths marked by deep racial disparities. The maternal mortality rate for Black and Indigenous people is three times higher than that of white women, and they are more than twice as likely to die during or after pregnancy from substance use or mental health-related causes, which have become leading drivers of maternal deaths across the nation.

According to Oregons review committee, almost all of the 13 mental health and substance use-related maternal deaths from 2018 through 2021, which amounted to 41% of all the mothers who died, were potentially preventable. The deaths highlight the challenge of reducing maternal mortality and racial disparities even in a state like Oregon, which is home to pioneering programs that combine behavioral and perinatal health care.

Oregons network of care for parents most at risk remains fragile and piecemeal. Programs like Project Nurture, which serves pregnant people with substance use disorders, has seen success in Portland and a few other communities but leave large swaths of the coast and Eastern Oregon unreached. There arent enough health care workers, and those who remain report high levels of burnout. Despite the strains on these systems, state lawmakers recently passed up an opportunity to increase funding for programs focused on pregnant people battling addiction, and advocates worry that impending federal cuts to health care programs like Medicaid may make it even harder to sustain progress.

But public health officials say that providers and politicians are still not broadly aware of the toll that substance use disorders take on pregnant people, especially how deadly those conditions have become.

The problem has grown exponentially in the last 10 years. And the people that are making decisions dont see that, said Dr. Heather Mackay-Gimino, an OB/GYN on the review committee. Thats to me, a huge barrier.

State Sen. Lisa Reynolds, D-Portland, said she was frustrated and disappointed that a bill she introduced in the 2025 Legislative session to help peer recovery programs bill Medicaid for their services failed to advance, despite research showing their effectiveness.

Every pregnant person should have easy, quick access to substance use disorder treatment if they have an issue, Reynolds said. And we are not there. Were better than some states, but not as good as we should be.

Unless lawmakers and health officials prioritize care for pregnant people with substance use and mental health needs, practitioners and advocates predict Oregon will struggle to save more lives and reduce the disproportionate harm to people of color and lower-income women.

We are making a statement by what we do not fund, and I think we are placing values on certain moms versus others, said Kali Thorne Ladd, chief executive officer of the Childrens Institute, a Portland-based nonprofit advocating for early childhood programs. And in doing so, we perpetuate inequities.

I didnt feel human

Hours after giving birth to her son in July 2021, Sarah Bovee realized something was wrong.

She was recovering in a Seattle hospital, drowsy from labor and a dose of buprenorphine, a medication to treat opioid use disorders. But there was mounting pressure in her pelvic area, so she alerted a nurse.

The nurse told Bovee that she was experiencing withdrawal and probably just needed to go to the bathroom.

I know this isnt withdrawal, she recalled telling the nurse. I know what Im feeling.

But the nurse didnt examine Bovee, so she tried to do as she was told. Instead, she fell asleep on the toilet, where she sat alone for 45 minutes.

It wasnt until she woke up and stepped into the shower that Bovee discovered the real problem: She had a severe prolapse, a shifting of organs caused by weakened pelvic muscles and ligaments that is common after birth, but gets worse with straining and requires immediate treatment. She was rushed into surgery, needed multiple blood transfusions, developed an infection and was put on antibiotics for three weeks. Bovee believes things wouldnt have gotten so bad if she had been examined when she first raised a concern.

Instead, Bovee felt shamed and dismissed throughout the birth, and suspected her admission of ongoing substance use was the primary reason. When she first told a nurse about it, Bovee said, she was immediately asked whether she had any open wounds on her body. While she was in the shower, where she discovered the prolapse, the nurse warned her not to defecate there.

I didnt feel human, Bovee said. It was hard to heal from that whole process.

Four years later, Bovee remains in recovery and is raising her 4-year-old son Ryan. Her journey underlines the complexity involved with making pregnancy healthier for people at highest risk of serious or deadly complications  and how targeted programs can make a difference.

A vision board created by Sarah Bovee, an Oregon City mother in recovery. Leah Nash/InvestigateWest

As a child, Bovee was removed from her mothers care due to drug use, and years later, her mother died of a heroin overdose. Bovee lost custody of two of her older children through the child welfare system, too.

Everybody in my family has an alcohol or drug addiction, Bovee said. Relapsing just felt like a predestined failure.

Although Bovee faced major challenges during her pregnancy with Ryan  she was navigating homelessness and grief after the deaths of several loved ones  she also had some support from people where it mattered most. After birth, she spent 21 days recovering in the hospital and a week in a drug treatment program, which Child Protective Services required in order for her to maintain custody of her baby. A doula trained in harm reduction brought her milk to the childs father every three hours when Bovee couldnt be with him. An addiction specialist guided her through treatment and advocated for her in court hearings.

She changed the tape in my head, by just affirming that I was resilient, that I was a good mother, that Im here and Im continuing to stay here, and thats evidence of my intentions to be a good mother for my child, Bovee said of the specialist.

Now, Bovee provides that same kind of support as a doula and peer support worker with Project Nurture, the program operating in several Portland hospitals that brings together family medicine doctors, midwives, peer support workers, doulas, and drug and alcohol counselors to improve pregnant participants health and reduce child welfare placements.

For many parents struggling with substance use, the support can mean the difference between healthy outcomes and tragic ones, or between being able to parent their baby and experiencing the trauma of separation.

Drug use, alcohol and smoking put women at higher risk for pregnancy complications such as hemorrhage and preeclampsia, and increases the likelihood that babies will be born premature, underweight or with other complications. Perinatal depression, anxiety and psychosis can interfere with breastfeeding and spur increased social isolation and dependence on substances.

But in many instances the discrimination and stigma that parents face  which the review committee said was a leading factor in substance use and mental health-related deaths  can drive them away from seeking help. Its also not uncommon for mothers dealing with addiction to avoid prenatal appointments out of fear that child welfare authorities will get involved.

Theres people who Ive known in the past that have had their baby on a bike path because they were afraid to go to the hospital, Bovee said.

Parents of color may also face racism or a lack of cultural competency while seeking health care, said Victoria Warren-Mears, director of the Northwest Tribal Epidemiology Center, which collects data on tribal health. For some, painful histories with the health care system and the government have created deep distrust, including the involuntary sterilization of both Native and Black women and more than 100 years of forced removal of Native children from their families to institutionalized boarding schools.

If you dont feel comfortable in a health care system, youre not going to go, Warren-Mears said. And people have all sorts of experiences with health care that may lead them not to want to seek services because of fear of how theyll be treated.

Strained solutions

The Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Review Committee has emphasized the need for programs that not only address the medical needs of pregnant people, but also issues like housing, food insecurity and stigma that can exacerbate physical and mental health problems. In its 2023 report to the Legislature, it recommended that the state greatly expand programs like Project Nurture, citing a 2021 expansion of the model into five additional counties.

Yet many areas of Oregon still dont have such programs or struggle to meet demand.

The needs are greater and the expenses are higher than either a standard pregnancy or maybe even than a standard person with substance use disorder, said Reynolds, the state senator from Portland. That combination makes it particularly tricky and expensive.

Drug treatment programs are often underequipped to meet the needs of pregnant people and may even turn them away. A 2019 study found that, nationwide, only 1 in 10 women of reproductive age who needed addiction treatment accessed it. A 2022 state assessment found the majority of county-level substance use disorder providers in Oregon dont offer special programs for pregnant people or parents of young children. Meanwhile, perinatal health care practitioners are not always trained to care for people with addiction and associated mental health issues.

Research on the effectiveness of peer support, a key component of these programs, is still emerging, but participants say it can make all the difference to connect with someone who has experienced the same struggles and come through them.

As a peer and doula, Bovee attends prenatal appointments and walks women through referrals for housing, therapy and food stamps  not just handing them a phone number, but making introductions and following up. She has brought someone their medication to spare them a trip to a pharmacy near where street drugs are being sold. She waited in her car for four hours while talking a very pregnant client through her fears about giving birth in a hospital. She advocates for the needs and preferences of the mother during the birth, and remains a resource for at least a year postpartum.

Throughout the process, she works alongside midwives and drug and alcohol counselors at Legacy Emmanuel Medical Center in Portland. All team members are trained to provide non-stigmatizing care.

Project Nurture has shown promising results: A 2018 analysis linked participation in the program to lower incidences of preterm birth and C-section, and increased engagement with both substance use treatment and perinatal appointments. A 2020 study of the program echoed some of those findings, and also found a reduction in child welfare placements and substantiated maltreatment findings among participants within a year of birth.

Its really hard to think of any other program that could potentially have this much of a long-term impact, because its such a critical time period for the mom, for the baby, for the pregnancy, said Cat Livingston, medical director for Health Share Oregon, a nonprofit that funded the launch of Project Nurture a decade ago. And it could change the trajectory of kids lives, where they can stay within a home with parents who are getting adequate substance use disorder care and parenting support.

One of the main obstacles to growing such programs is their struggle to get paid through Medicaid, the federal-state health insurance program for low-income adults and children. While the model brings behavioral and physical health together into one setting, in the billing world, those services remain siloed. Regulations have kept some hospitals from being able to bill Medicaid for peer services. Organizations eat the cost of the care that they cant recoup, which provides little incentive for the model to grow.

In order for this to have long-term sustainability, I believe that we need to have a payment mechanism that recognizes that this is more complicated care, Livingston said.

As of September, around 200 participants were enrolled in Project Nurture. Nurture Oregon, the rural expansion, served 341 people within its first two years. Its not clear how many pregnant or postpartum people may need that support, but according to the most recent data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, nearly 22% of Oregonians ages 18 or older reported experiencing a substance use disorder within the last year  more than 900,000 people.

Black and Indigenous residents are hit hardest. Both groups are less likely to access substance use treatment and experience the highest rates of deadly overdose, according to data from the Oregon Health Authority. They are also less likely to access adequate prenatal care.

Due to a lack of comprehensive data, its difficult to assess how the states existing wraparound programs are meeting the needs of Black and Indigenous parents. Snapshots of data from Project Nurture and Nurture Oregon sites show that the rate of Black and Indigenous participation generally tracks with the demographics of their communities, but leaders expressed a desire to increase the cultural responsiveness and diversity of peers and providers.

In many instances, organizations focused on Black and Indigenous families are stepping up to fill the needs within their own communities, but rely almost entirely on grants and donations, limiting their reach.

Sacred Roots, a Portland-based program run by the Black Parent Initiative, provides free doula and lactation support to Black women. Like Project Nurture, its doulas and lactation specialists are trained to spot those struggling with their mental health or substance use and to provide support or connect them to other resources, said Michelle Smith, program manager.

Sacred Roots is supported primarily by grants. While it has explored the possibility of becoming a Medicaid billing hub for the doulas it contracts with, the complexity of the process stalled those efforts, Smith said. The organization is familiar with Project Nurture, she said, but there isnt a robust referral relationship.

Meanwhile, peer support workers like Bovee are concerned about the sustainability of their work. Some programs have recommended that peers focused on pregnant patients take on smaller caseloads due to the complexity and emotional toll. But in reality, many workers overload themselves in order to avoid turning people away. In September, Bovee had 28 clients, about double the recommended amount.

The lopsided ratio of demand for help versus the number of people who can provide that help kind of preys on people with lived experiences  because Im gonna show up for somebody in need, period, Bovee said.

Her work demands are often unpredictable, and while her employer affords her some flexibility, Bovee said shes not allowed to work overtime. Even working full time, she still relies on a housing voucher to help pay her rent.

Were persons in recovery, too, right? I need it to be sustainable, Bovee said.

Faltering progress

While research continues to show the deadly risks that mental health and substance use pose for pregnant people, several Oregon public health leaders said a lack of awareness among lawmakers and the public is hampering efforts to improve support.

As required by law, the review committees reports are submitted to Legislative health care committees. But Tomlinson, the committee chair, said hes unsure how many state leaders have read them. Besides Reynolds, he hasnt heard from many lawmakers, he said.

We have no idea who looks at it and what they think about it, not even within the Legislature, he said. We didnt hear anything from the governor.

Gov. Tina Kotek has long been a proponent of doulas as key supports for pregnant women, said spokesperson Lucas Bezerra. The work of the committee informs her approach, and she will continue reviewing their reports and supporting their work.

Reynolds, a pediatrician, worked with groups such as Black Futures Initiative and the Childrens Institute to craft and introduce a slate of bills focused on young families this session. Of the six bills that Reynolds introduced, two passed: One strengthened eviction protections for families with young children, and another bolstered pay and access to doula care, which provides mental support for families.

But Oregon Senate Bill 691, her bill requiring Medicaid to cover peer services in all clinical settings, died without being heard in the legislative budget committee. It had no public opposition, but Reynolds said the bill fell down the list of priorities as the session went on.

It was a blow to advocates who worked to craft the bill and whip up support.

This is a supermajority Democratic state, said Thorne Ladd, executive director of the Childrens Institute. The peer services bills failure shows we havent done our work here.

The Oregon Health Authority is convening a new workgroup to strategize ways to clear some billing barriers and encourage access to health services without legislative action, a spokesperson said. Reynolds also said, given the states budget challenges, that shes looking for other ways the state can prioritize pregnant parents without asking for new dollars.

But that work is unfolding against a backdrop of cuts to public safety-net programs. Oregon is poised to lose billions of Medicaid dollars in the coming years as a result of the spending package Congress passed this summer, called the One Big Beautiful Bill, and state officials estimate that new Medicaid enrollment requirements will lead to around 200,000 Oregonians losing health care coverage.

For hospitals already struggling financially, costly maternal health care units are also one of the first services to be cut back.

But the payoff of such programs can last for generations. Supportive, stigma-free care has helped Bovee rebuild relationships with all of her children. She sets Fridays aside to be with her youngest son, Ryan, and they often spend those days doing art projects or walking along the Willamette River. The joys help fuel her work, she said, while her work helps remind her of how far she has come.

Every single client I come across, I see myself in at some point in my journey, she said. And it reminds me Im not only offering support to people like me, Im healing parts of myself with every step that I take. Every time I show up, every person I connect with, every time I allow myself to be vulnerable and create a safe space for persons like me. Its the flap of butterfly wings that changes things a generation away.

Help available

If you are in need of mental health support or resources for substance use, here are some organizations that can help:

National Maternal Mental Health Hotline : Call or text 1-833-852-6262. Available in English and Spanish.

National Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 from anywhere in the U.S., anytime, about any type of crisis

988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline : Text or call 988

211info : Dial 211 to connect with resources for anything from mental health to employment and from housing to education

This article was produced with support from the USC Annenberg Center for Health Journalisms 2025 Impact Fund for Reporting on Health Equity and Health Systems as well as the Centers engagement initiative.

Kaylee Tornay is InvestigateWests reporter covering labor, youth and health care. A reporter since 2017, she has dedicated herself to rigorous, revelatory journalism that scrutinizes power and equips local communities with knowledge they can use. Reach her at 503-877-4108 or kaylee@investigatewest.org.
Agents from the Department of Homeland Security converge on protesters outside the Portland Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in October. Spencer Platt/Getty Images

This story was originally published by ProPublica.

As the Trump administrations immigration dragnet intensified in June, a nurse in Portland, left work one midafternoon and drove to a nearby detention facility to voice his opposition. Federal agents had set off smoke grenades, driving away many protesters at the front of the facility, but Vincent Hawkins lifted his megaphone anyway.

You should stop and think about what youre doing!

The shot came seconds later, a silver projectile launched through the small facilitys closed gate, hitting him in the face. The tear gas canister shattered his glasses, ripped apart his brow, crushed against his eye and concussed him. In video footage, the projectile can be seen bouncing off his face and arcing back toward the unknown Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent who fired it.

Hawkins, a 25-year veteran of the emergency room, was rushed to one, bleeding and wondering if hed ever see through his left eye again. A frequent demonstrator, he knew the risks. Hed seen friends struggling to breathe through toxic chemical clouds, others pelted with pepper balls. But Hawkins was undeterred.

I have things to say, he said. And if it means being wounded to do it, then here I am.

The 55-year-old said hed be blind in one eye if not for the shielding effect of his glasses. Hes regained most of his vision but suffers from dizziness and vertigo, sometimes causing him to miss work.

Since President Donald Trumps administration launched high-intensity immigration sweeps this year, federal agents have routinely countered protestors using crowd control weapons  rubber bullets, flash-bang grenades, tear gas and pepper balls. Theyve fired on American citizens and noncitizens alike in ways that some experts say might be criminal.

The so-called less lethal weapons are designed to break up mobs engaged in dangerous behavior or deter would-be assailants who pose a threat. They arent intended to kill. But research has shown the weapons can cause devastating injuries or death. Federal guidelines generally prohibit agents from targeting the head, neck, throat or spine when firing projectiles like rubber bullets or pepper balls.

Vincent Hawkins said he was struck in the eye by a projectile fired by a federal agency on Saturday, June 14. Vincent Hawkins

ProPublica and FRONTLINE conducted dozens of interviews at protest scenes, reviewed hundreds of pages of court documents and photographs, and analyzed some 50 video-recorded incidents in which immigration agents and officers used these weapons in the last five months. That review found more than two dozen cases in which officers deployed the weapons in ways that appear to flout the governments own rules, including by aiming at someones head, spine or groin and deploying chemical agents at moving vehicles or near children.

In Southern California, federal law enforcement fired pepper balls and rubber bullets at peoples heads and backs at least five times, and at least once at a mans groin, records and interviews show. In Oakland, California, an unarmed pastor who posed no obvious threat was blasted in the face with pepper powder. In Chicago, where more than a dozen people reported being indiscriminately pelted with pepper balls, entire blocks were enshrouded in tear gas, forcing people from their homes. A religious leader was targeted in his head with pepper balls.

Christy Lopez, a former senior civil rights litigator at the Department of Justice, said many of the bystander and news videos shes seen show clearly excessive, unreasonable force that her former office would have investigated as potential crimes.

They are clearly violating peoples rights, said Lopez, who now teaches at Georgetown Law. Its probably criminal, and it should be investigated as such.

I dont say that lightly, added Lopez, who led investigations into misconduct and excessive force at police departments including Los Angeles, Chicago and Ferguson, Missouri. This is a very different situation than anything weve seen in the past in terms of just the routine and really brazen use of force in violation of peoples rights.

Rohini Haar, an ER doctor and University of California, Berkeley professor who studies crowd control weapons, told ProPublica that Hawkins assault in Portland was absolutely a misuse of tear gas because it was fired at his head when he posed no obvious threat. For a 2023 policy paper published by Physicians for Human Rights, Haar and her team analyzed peer-reviewed medical literature to identify more than 100,000 instances of people wounded by tear gas since 2015; the researchers found more than 5,000 serious injuries, including 14 deaths of people struck by military-grade gas canisters.

Haar said Americans are witnessing a far more dangerous use of these weapons in recent months, despite calls for clearer use-of-force policies following the police killing of George Floyd in 2020 and the nationwide protests it spurred.

Youre going to see a lot more injuries, she said.

In a statement to ProPublica, a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson said its ICE and Customs and Border Protection officers show incredible restraint but sometimes must use force as they put their lives on the line to arrest murderers, rapists, and gang members.

ICE and CBP personnel are trained to use the minimum amount of force necessary to resolve dangerous situations to prioritize the safety of the public and themselves, the statement said. Our officers are highly trained in de-escalation tactics and regularly receive ongoing use of force training.

Even when used correctly, manufacturers acknowledge these weapons can be lethal. As Defense Technology, a Wyoming company that makes the type of canister that struck Hawkins, discloses on many of its wares: THIS PRODUCT MAY CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO YOU OR OTHERS.

The company did not respond to a request for comment.

Aggressive campaign

Border Patrol commander Greg Bovino, a 30-year veteran of CBP, has orchestrated many of the most aggressive immigrant roundups across the country.

When forces under Bovinos command began rounding up suspected undocumented immigrants in Los Angeles in June, vocal demonstrations followed. In response, his troops used tear gas and rubber bullets in ways that drew rebuke from a California federal judge.

U.S. Customs and Border Patrol Gregory Bovino arrives outside federal court in Chicago, Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025. AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh

On June 7, a Homeland Security agent shot a local reporter in the head with a rubber bullet as the journalist covered a fierce protest at a Home Depot in Los Angeles County, causing a concussion.

In ensuing days, federal personnel repeatedly fired crowd control munitions at media members, protesters and bystanders. The Los Angeles Press Club and a union representing journalists sued the Department of Homeland Security.

DHS agents have consistently used these weapons to suppress First Amendment protected activity when they faced no meaningful threat of violence, the suit said. Despite common perceptions that alleged crowd control weapons are harmless, each of these weapons  including, and especially, chemical weapons and projectiles  can cause significant and long-lasting health harms.

In early September, U.S. District Judge Hernan D. Vera issued an order restricting the use of crowd control weapons and requiring at least two separate warnings before agents or officers deployed them. Enforceable only in the Central District of California, which covers much of coastal Southern California, the order also barred agents from firing tear gas canisters and flash-bang grenades at the public and shooting rubber bullets or other projectiles at the head, neck, groin, back, or other sensitive areas, unless that person poses an immediate threat of death or serious bodily injury. That order went further than existing policies at DHS, specifically prohibiting firing on journalists and requiring law enforcement to give clear dispersal orders and allowing crowds to leave before deploying weapons.

DHS appealed, saying the ruling micromanages how DHS agents respond to violent riots. The appeal is pending.

Bovino has defended his officers, calling their use of the weapons exemplary. Yet allegations of misuse have followed his forces to other cities.

Midway blitz

After Los Angeles, Bovino took his troops to Chicago. There, he led Operation Midway Blitz  an aggressive campaign of roving immigration sweeps that included the siege of an entire apartment building.

Those apprehended during the blitz were taken to a detention facility in a nondescript industrial park in Broadview, a Chicago suburb. Small demonstrations had been held there for years, but they exploded in size as ICE and CBP officials rushed hundreds of detainees through the suburban streets to jail and possible deportation.

Federal agents and officers turned again to crowd control weapons.Raven Geary, co-founder of Unraveled, an independent news operation in Chicago, was covering a protest at the Broadview detention facility in late September when a federal agent shot her in the face with a pepper ball, causing her left cheek to bleed and bruise.

It was this very sudden, horrible pain, said Geary, who was carrying two large cameras and wearing a press badge. Then she realized she was covered in a powder containing the active ingredient in hot peppers. Youre coughing, you are sneezing, you are wheezing, it can be hard to see.

Leigh Kunkel, a demonstrator, also got pelted. The crowd was not doing anything, she said, yet the pepper balls came flying at them.

Agents shot her in the back of the head and the nose. Im incredibly lucky that he didnt hit me 2 inches higher, she said. I could have lost an eye.

Kunkel and Geary became plaintiffs in a lawsuit seeking to curb the use of force by federal forces in the Chicago area.

As part of that lawsuit, a nearby resident and mother named Autumn Hamer told a judge how she swung by the facility in the early morning to see peaceful protestors chanting, Whose streets? Our streets!

Federal officers on the roof intermittently fired rubber bullets and pepper balls into the crowd, she said. A flash-bang grenade landed next to her, causing disorientation and a ringing in her ear.

At a subsequent protest, she saw a projectile tear through an acoustic guitar a woman was playing. The agents fired tear gas, Hamer said, making her choke. As Hamer and others tried to move from the barricaded front of the facility toward fresh air on another street, she told ProPublica and FRONTLINE, they found themselves getting shot through a side barricade, as though agents had flanked them to box them in.

It all felt cruel, Hamer told reporters. She noted that the pepper ball launchers are similar in design to recreational paintball guns. I have teenage boys, so when I look at [agents], Im like,  are you pretending that youre in a video game right now?

Federal Judge Sara Ellis sided with the plaintiffs, issuing a temporary restraining order that barred immigration agents from targeting journalists and using crowd control weapons unless there is a serious threat to public safety.

Still, Bovinos agents continued to use the weapons. One Chicago resident captured a video that looks like it could have come from a video game.

Enrique Bahena wore camera-equipped Meta glasses to a protest in Chicagos Little Village, a largely Latino neighborhood. Bahena said he was with a group of activists who were loudly  but nonviolently  confronting Border Patrol agents. Everyone was just telling them to get out, he recalled.

Bahenas camera glasses captured a first-person view of a Border Patrol agent pointing a pepper ball launcher at him, just feet away. In the video, the agent fires at his throat, sending up a cloud of noxious smoke.

On Nov. 6, Ellis, the federal judge for the Northern District of Illinois nominated by former President Barack Obama, said from the bench that the use of force shocks the conscience, before ordering dramatic changes in how federal forces use crowd control weapons.

DHS decried her ruling as an extreme act by an activist judge that risks the lives and livelihoods of law enforcement officers.

Rioters, gangbangers, and terrorists have opened fire on our federal law enforcement officers, thrown rocks, bottles, and fireworks at them, slashed the tires of their vehicles, rammed them, ambushed them, and they have destroyed multiple law enforcement vehicles, a department statement read.DHS appealed. Last week, a panel of three Republican appointees sided with the government, temporarily blocking her ruling and saying Ellis limitations on officers went too far  so much so, the judges wrote, that they resembled federal regulation.

Federal agents target protesters with less lethal weapons at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement building in Portland in October. Mark Graves/The Oregonian

Ellis criticized Bovino for an October incident in which he threw a tear gas canister at community members in the Little Village neighborhood. Bovino claimed hed been attacked by a rock-throwing assailant, forcing him to deploy the gas for his own protection. Ellis said video evidence disproves this. And he ultimately admitted he was not hit until after he threw the tear gas.

Bovino did not respond to a request for comment made through DHS.

A DHS official said personnel working under Bovino enjoy a sense of impunity when it comes to uses of force. These events keep happening because of the lack of accountability by CBP, said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of repercussions. And theres usually no repercussions for agents or officers because federal prosecutors rarely prosecute agents for excessive force.

We come in peace

On the morning of Oct. 23, a green-and-white Border Patrol truck lurched through a crowd of protestors gathered on the Oakland, California, waterfront. The demonstrators had converged after learning that federal agents would be using a nearby Coast Guard base to launch a wave of immigration raids.

Masked Border Patrol agents popped out to disperse people whod enveloped the vehicle with signs and chants. Hoping to calm the tension, a local pastor named Jorge Bautista joined the crowd to pray.

Videos show an agent exiting the truck, marching toward the pastor and pointing a large-caliber weapon at his face.

Im thinking, Theres no way hes going to shoot this thing at me, Bautista recalled. Im thinking, Hes just using this to scare me. Its not going to work. And the moment I realized he was close enough to hear me, I said, We come in peace.

As he said those words, the agent pulled the trigger, striking Bautista with an object that dispersed what bystanders believed was pepper powder. Videos show Bautista struggling to breathe as his eyes and skin burned beneath toxic granules. The unidentified agent calmly returned to the truck.

Bystanders poured liquid on his face. He kept his eyes shut and wound up in the hospital for treatment of scrapes and bruises on his chin and neck.

No one should be assaulted for being out there protesting, said Bautista, who said he intends to sue DHS.

You would figure they would be trained to de-escalate situations, right? Instead of going straight for using some kind of weapon to assault somebody, the pastor said.
As immigration enforcement tactics escalate and fear spreads, separating fact from fiction has become increasingly challenging on social media where residents and activists are trying to track ICE sightings and arrests in real time. Many of the posts are unverified and some are outright rumors. (Associated Press) Associated Press

Leer en espanol: Rumores sobre ICE multiplican los temores en Oregon en medio de la represion de Trump

A post circulating on social media earlier this week claimed federal agents would set up roadblocks on major Portland-area freeways the week of Thanksgiving in what would be an unprecedented immigration dragnet.

The post warned community members to stay off the highways because authorities would be checking the identities of occupants in every car during busy holiday travel.

But theres no evidence its true. A Portland-area lawmaker and other local authorities quickly set out to debunk it.

The rumor was just the latest in a string of false and unverified claims that have spread online in recent weeks amid a sharp increase in immigration enforcement in Oregon, further stoking the fears of a community already on edge over a wave of real immigration arrests.

Since October, armed and often masked federal agents have arrested hundreds of Oregonians, aggressively pulling people out of cars, surrounding them at gunpoint and detaining them even if they are U.S. citizens or the wrong people. Last month alone in the Portland area, federal authorities arrested more than 560 people, an official confirmed.

The vast majority are Latinos, including a growing number of U.S. citizens and people with other forms of legal status, according to the Portland Immigrant Rights Coalition, which runs a hotline for reporting immigration-related arrests and federal agent sightings. The group sends volunteers to verify and document some of the claims.

The list of arrests includes two Gresham men and a Beaverton man arrested in separate cases of mistaken identity and a U.S. citizen detained for seven hours after photographing immigration agents outside a local Chick-fil-A. Farmworkers, high school students and asylum seekers have also been caught in the crackdown.

But the hotline, too, has been swamped by false alarms and duplicate tips, fielding up to 500 calls per day, said coalition board member Natalie Lerner.

Its an avalanche of information, she said.

Immigration rumors abound

Social media has been rife with immigration rumors since President Donald Trump took office in January, vowing to carry out the largest domestic deportation operation in American history. But the drastic surge in arrests this fall has led many immigrants on a frantic search for information.

Most have turned to social media, partly due to the decline in traditional local news in Spanish and because many Latino immigrants already get their news through word of mouth and online, said Evelyn Kocher, a spokesperson for the Portland-based nonprofit Latino Network.

People are very hungry for information. And when it comes to information related to immigration enforcement, time is of the essence, Kocher said. Folks are relying a lot more on social media channels because theyre desperate for any news they can find in order to keep themselves and their families safe.

Social media networks now track immigration agents whereabouts in Oregon and report on active enforcement operations in real time. Facebook groups, WhatsApp chats and TikTok feeds teem with daily alerts posted by residents and community activists, including videos of arrests and hundreds of photos of SUVs allegedly linked to ICE agents.

Scores of Spanish-language social media influencers also have emerged. Some, local nonprofits said, seek to capitalize on the communitys fear by soliciting the audiences theyve accumulated for financial support or pocketing a share of advertising revenue.

Most social posts are unverified and, in some cases, are flat-out false, Kocher said. And it has become increasingly difficult for people to ascertain whether to trust information posted online.

Latino Network directs questions about unverified immigration threats to the coalition-run hotline, Kocher said.

Many of the reports turn out to be false alarms.

The coalition has refrained from posting updates in real time on social media, said Lerner, the coalition board member. Thats partly because it doesnt have the capacity to do so and also because it does not want to stoke more fear. But, as the hotline has become a hub for arrest data in Oregon in recent weeks, the group has initiated weekly and sometimes daily updates.

Its tricky because in some ways, sharing things on social media can spread a lot of fear, Lerner said. On the other hand, its important for spreading awareness, for letting people know how to stay safe and for alerting people who might not hear so much about this issue to what a serious issue it is.

Immigrant families hiding

The unending stream of unverified social reports and rumors has deepened anxiety and caused a panic paralysis that has led some families  including those with legal status or who have U.S. citizen children  to shelter at home and abandon regular activities, said Jairo Rodriguez, a spokesperson with Centro Cultural of Washington County, a nonprofit that for more than five decades has provided social services, education and cultural programs to Latinos in the region.

People have stopped going to work, stopped taking their kids to school, stopped going to their doctors appointments, said Rodriguez.

The nonprofit has been swamped with calls from residents seeking to verify some of what they read online, Rodriguez said. It, too, has worked with the hotline to report and dispel immigration-related rumors.

The challenge has always been the timing because people want to know in the instant but it takes time to verify information, he said. We know ICE is present in our region and their presence has sent shockwaves throughout our communities. But we also know that the way we talk about these things matters. We need to confirm things before we start spreading more uncertainty. Because when rumors and speculations get highlighted without confirmation, it multiplies the fear even further.

While its important to document immigration arrests, Rodriguez said, posting videos of arrests on social media also can put those detained or their families at risk, he said.

Instead of posting online, Rodriguez said, community members should send the videos to the coalitions hotline to verify and potentially provide for the legal defense of people detained.

Rodriguez also warned that some social media influencers are trying to monetize the suffering the community is facing.

Those arrests are the peoples worst day in their lives, Rodriguez said. We have to be careful not to make someones worst day into online content for us to digest.

Those who want to support immigrants can instead volunteer with the PIRC coalition, contribute to a food drive or help connect immigrants with free legal counsel, he said.

Lets think about how we can show up for our community members who are living with fear knowing that they still have a life to live, Rodriguez said.

Oregon officials debunking claims

Local authorities in recent weeks have worked to dispel the most misleading claims.

The Oregon State Police called this weeks posts about immigration checkpoints on local freeways rumors. Capt. Kyle Kennedy, a state police spokesperson, said the agency is unaware of any plans related to an immigration roadblock. The Oregon Department of Transportation, which federal agencies would need to coordinate with about any roadblocks, said the same.

We have no information supporting the claim that roadblocks are planned on Oregon highways, and we have not received any related notifications from the federal government, said ODOT spokesperson Katherine Benenati.

State Rep. Ricki Ruiz, D-Gresham, was even more emphatic. A coordinated, multi-highway ICE checkpoint operation would require massive staffing, formal public notice, coordination with state and local law enforcement and would immediately impact commuters, emergency services, freight and daily travel, Ruiz wrote on Facebook.

But immigration officers in Oregon do randomly run car license plates for names and birthdates of registered owners to check if the owner is in the United States unlawfully. Earlier this month, a federal judge found the practice led to the illegal detention of an asylum seeker.

PIRC, the Portland-based coalition, urged immigrants this week to be aware of whose car theyre traveling in and to consider public transit instead. Lawmakers in Oregon and elsewhere have urged governors to block the sharing of state driver and motor vehicle information with federal officers, something Oregon is pursuing.

Another social media post had claimed federal agents had surrounded Hillsboros Century High School and were questioning students. School district officials refuted the claim, saying Hillsboro police told them an ICE vehicle was involved in a crash two blocks away, which led to a large number of ICE agents congregating in the neighborhood.

The district said agents had not come onto school property and the school did not receive any reports of ICE stopping students.

Social media commenters have also claimed that federal agents were trying to force their way into Randall Childrens Hospital at Legacy Emanuel in North Portland. The post included photos of men in law enforcement uniforms who the author claimed were immigration agents.

The hospital quickly disputed the claim.

We are aware of a photo on social media reportedly showing ICE officers at Randall Childrens; however, the individuals in the photo are Legacy safety & security officers, Legacy Health told The Oregonian/OregonLive.

Federal officials told KOIN News that immigration agents had transported an injured detainee to an area hospital that day but had not done any enforcement there.

Lerner, of the coalition that runs the hotline, said the best thing community activists can do is share the context each time they post  including the time, date, location and verified details about what they witnessed. People who rely on online information, in turn, should look for that context when judging whether a location is safe, and before reposting for others to see.

Thats especially crucial because social media reposts or algorithmic resurfacing can make posts from days or weeks earlier appear new.

People can always call us if they see something and they arent sure, Lerner said. Our goal is to right-size the amount of fear that people have so that we can be as clear eyed about the threat that were facing and we can respond critically to whats actually happening.
Tony James hugs his pig as the pig arrives at Lighthouse Farm Sanctuary. Photo Courtesy of Melissa Dolan

A 250-pound pig, who had been living with his owner in the back of a hatchback car in Portland, is now adjusting to rural life in Scio, Oregon.

On Wednesday afternoon  just days after members of Portland Fire & Rescues Community Health Assess and Treat (CHAT) team offered help  Roscoe arrived at Lighthouse Farm Sanctuary, located about an hour and a half south of Portland in Linn County.

CHAT members first reached out to Roscoes owner, Tony James, who had been living out of his car, on Monday.

Less than 24 hours later, Fire Bureau employees had found a home for Roscoe, and the city was setting up travel arrangements for James and his dog Elvis to reunite with James family in Chicago.

James, accompanied by Elvis, brought Roscoe to the sanctuary for a tearful goodbye.

It was actually quite emotional because the bond between Tony and Roscoe was very apparent, said Gwen Jakubisin, executive director of Lighthouse Farm Sanctuary. They love each other very much. We were all crying.

Roscoe the pig adjusting to life at Lighthouse Farm Sanctuary. Photo courtesy of Gwen Jakubisin

In June 2025, a run of bad luck left 44-year-old James without shelter in Portland after his appendix ruptured and left him unable to work his job as a sheet metal fabricator. A month later, his partner of 11 years died from a heart attack, leaving their dog Elvis, and their pet pig, Roscoe, without a home.

James and Elvis will soon be in Chicago, thanks to a city program that reunites people experiencing homelessness with their families. Meanwhile, Roscoe will remain in Oregon.

He is doing well. Its a big adjustment, Jakubisin said of Roscoe. Hes never met any other pigs before, Tony told us. So hes meeting a few friends. Hes kind of overwhelmed with the new smells and the new sounds. I think hes just decompressing.

For now, Roscoe is being kept in his own enclosure during a quarantine and adjustment period. Several weeks from now, after he is neutered, hell be able to join the other 132 pigs who have full run of the sanctuarys 54 acres.

Hes going to have tons of space to roam, Jakubisin said. We have a big oak forest, and so in the fall hell have acorns to munch on. Hell have wallows, which is something he had never really had before. Tony said that he found a mud puddle in a park once and went wild with it.

Roscoe the pig adjusting to life at Lighthouse Farm Sanctuary. Photo courtesy of Gwen Jakubisin

Roscoe is a 3-year-old, fully-grown Gottingen pig. James said his late partner purchased him for about $20.

The reason why people get them as pets is because they tend to be the smaller breed of pigs, but thats all relative because 250 pounds is pretty big, Jakubisin said.

Lighthouse Farm Sanctuary is the states largest rescue for farm animals. The nonprofit cares for more than 300 animals, including pigs, cows, horses, chickens, sheep and goats. Many of the animals arrive from neglect situations.

That was not the case with Roscoe, whom Jakubisin described as healthy and happy.

Theres been so many situations where pigs come to us and theyre emaciated, they have overgrown hooves, overgrown tusks  things that could have easily happened to Roscoe given the situation, she said. It was totally the opposite. You could tell (Tony) did everything he could to make sure (Roscoe) was taken care of.

Roscoe and the farms other pigs celebrated Thanksgiving with vegan pumpkin pies.

Were just so thrilled that we were able to help, and we really hope this helps Tony get back on his feet, Jakubisin said. Roscoe is going to be super well taken care of, but if theres ever a situation in the future where Tony can reunite with him, we will be more than happy to facilitate that.
The owner and baker behind Portland doogie food cart Bring! Treats for Dogs, donated nearly 110 dog-friendly cupcakes to the Oregon Humane Society on Thanksgiving. Kristine de Leon

On Thanksgiving morning, a Portland small business owner decided shelter pets deserved a holiday treat of their own.

Kristen Martin, the owner and baker behind doggie food cart Bring! Treats for Dogs, spent the week baking nearly 110 pupcakes  dog-friendly frosting-topped cupcakes. She delivered them Thursday to animals at the Oregon Humane Society in Portland.

The special holiday drop-off was meant to bring a little comfort and joy to dogs waiting for adoption, Martin said. Each pupcake was crafted with ingredients like pumpkin, cranberry and goat cheese, chosen to be both festive and gentle on canine stomachs.

I made enough to make the dogs at the shelter feel loved, Martin said. I have a rescue dog of my own who has digestive issues, so I started making these special treats and thought it would be a nice tradition to share and donate them during the holidays.

About a dozen volunteers, including Martin, helped feed roughly 80 dogs at the Portland shelter. The remaining pupcakes will be delivered to the Oregon Humane Societys Salem location on Friday.

This marks the third Thanksgiving Martin has donated her homemade treats to the Humane Society. She said she made sure to bake enough for every dog in the shelter  and then some.
Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On November 28, LUXEED announced that it delivered over 10,000 vehicles in November, topping this threshold for the second straight month, while firm orders have exceeded that level for three consecutive months.

Photo source: LUXEED

LUXEED is a premium smart-NEV marque jointly developed by Huawei and Chery Automobile. On August 7, 2025, Chery and Huawei's consumer business division formalized a "2.0" strategic partnership for the LUXEED brand during a signing ceremony in Shenzhen, China.

The expanded partnership ushers LUXEED into a new development stage, with more than CNY 10 billion earmarked for R&D and a 5,000-member engineering team planned to strengthen capabilities in driver-assistance technology and electric-powertrain technologies.

LUXEED is also scaling up its design and development footprint. It will draw on dual design centers in Shanghai and Shenzhen while building a new R&D hub in Wuhu's Roland Town  an installation intended to mirror Huawei's Songshan Lake research base. Together, these sites form a multi-city innovation network that brings advanced design and engineering closer to production.

The division of responsibilities between the two partners has become sharper: Huawei is taking the lead on operations and intelligent-system development, while Chery has elevated LUXEED to its top strategic priority, dedicating internal resources to support production and product rollout.

The partnership quickly yielded new products, with updated versions of the LUXEED R7 and S7 officially hitting the market. Pricing for the refreshed R7 starts at CNY 268,000, while the S7 begins at CNY 258,000.

On November 10, 2025, LUXEED announced that cumulative deliveries of its R7 fastback SUV had surpassed 100,000 units  an important milestone for the fledgling brand's market performance.

Another notable development came on November 20, 2025, when Huawei Executive Director Richard Yu revealed at the launch event of the STELATO S9 in Guangzhou that Harmony Intelligent Mobility Alliance (HIMA) will soon introduce its first flagship MPV.

The MPV  positioned as a top-tier "9-series" flagship  will be sold under the LUXEED brand and built on HIMA's highest-level vehicle platform. It is expected to feature the latest generation HarmonySpace, high-end ADS assisted-driving systems, and both battery electric vehicle (BEV) and range-extended electric vehicle (REEV) powertrain options.

Industry observers say the MPV could mark a pivotal moment for LUXEED, broadening its lineup into a segment where demand remains strong. The model is reportedly slated for a market debut in the first half of 2026.
My wife read My Blockchain for the first time in the issue when it arrived in the mail.had taken it to the heart of cultural life in staunchly monarchical L

Its about a Jewish soldier going through basic training while trying to stick
Wood here refers to the front page

seaport basketball courts

los angeles court records

p diddy in court

it reflects its surroundings in my

the writer Amitava Kumar pus

is what people say when theyre bangi
the made-up Macondo of One Hundred Years of Solitude has come to define the image of Latin Americaespecially for those of us from the Colombian Caribbean.and when that b

In sixth grade I discovered a pleasurable combination of shrill taste and buzz
Heres to oracular typos and scrambled eggs! We hope youll keep an eye out for more Making of a Poem piece

had taken it to the heart of cultural life in staunchly monarchical Lisbon and heatedly bourgeois Amsterdam.but shouldnt we be r
and experience so densely packed (the body remembers everything) that the (human) container can be aware of only a few layers at a time.Funny how another persons words can l

and whats stopping us all from doing that for one another again? What is in the way? In-it-togetherness is a core value for me.I explored different styles and approaches beca
Saint Emerentia tends to tower over all the other figures in the icons and sculptures that feature her./ what are these hundred suits of clothes Im wearing? I was thinkin

a looping map of road signs that seem to occur in too many places at oncethe
One of my friends wanted to get a new Online Ceramics Dead T-shirt; another one wanted to buy a tiny cera

The works in Using Electricity harness data and code to push language into more playful and revealing imaginative territory.The
INTERVIEWERHow did the cover image come about?PETER DOIGId made a birthday card for my son Lockera more

soliciting a slow grind your body might remember from Cool Down the Pace by Gregory Isaacs or Rock the Boat by Aaliyah.Black Swa
Can you tell me about Sand and Musset?SERREI heard a lot about Musset and Sand when I was a child because my father was very fond of Mussets work and was fascinated by his a

Its astounding that we havent lost anyone to those staircases over the decades! The lower level is a subterranean world.the patience and fortitude with which she illustrates
Whistle! Foul! Free throws! Possible flagrant! The feet shifted! The arm was slapped! The face was elbowe

the pretty country girl who had had bigger dreams than a failure of a husband and a cad of an (ex-)lover.the question at the hea
American carmakers in the 1960s chased trends like Metallica cutting their hair. Seemingly, every brand had to have a large displacement V8, even producing consecutive 425, 426, 427, 428, 429, and 430-cubic inch engines. Sometimes, different manufacturers offered identically sized V8s, such as the Pontiac, Oldsmobile, and Buick 455s.

Now, advertised displacements weren't always accurate. For example, the Ford 427's 4.232-inch bore and 3.784-inch stroke results in 425.82 inches of displacement. When the 427 FE debuted in 1963, NASCAR had a 427-cubic inch limit, so Ford apparently just called its 426 a "427" to match (or to avoid mirroring the Chrysler 426 Hemi). Chevrolet's 427 actually is a 427, though, with its 4.25-inch bore and 3.76-inch stroke yielding 426.72 cubic inches.

So, bore and stroke are darn similar between the Ford and Chevy 427s, and output figures were often nearly identical, too. R-Code Ford 427s made 425 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 480 pound-feet of torque at 3,700 rpm. Chevrolet L72 427s made 425 hp at 5,600 rpm and 460 pound-feet of torque at 4,000 rpm, though early 1966 L72s carried a rating of 450 hp.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

Chevrolet's 427 enjoyed a wide spread of performance tuning, from sedate 10.25:1 compression 335-hp LS1s (completely unrelated to the C5 Corvette gen-III small block LS1 from the 90s) to wild, solid-lifter, 12.5:1 compression competition-oriented L88s with a factory-rated 430 hp (more like 550+). In comparison, Ford didn't build 427s for relaxed cruising. The only sub-400-hp 427 FE was in the 390-hp 1968 Mercury Cougar GT-E. Ford's 427 was an expensive, high-strung engine, while the cheaper-to-build 428 FE was better suited for the street, prioritizing torque over revs, due to its smaller bore and longer stroke.

Read more: The Most Famous Straight-8 Engines (And The Cars They Powered)

Do you want less weight or double the camshafts?

A Ford SOHC 427 FE Cammer sitting on a stand in a museum with dual four-barrel carbureters and a manual transmission attached - Mr.choppers/Wikimedia Commons

Both Ford and Chevy experimented with exotic specs on their 427s, but in opposite directions. In 1964, Ford slapped single overhead-cam (SOHC) heads on the 427 FE. It wasn't really that simple, of course, though the engineering process was so fast that the SOHC 427 is nicknamed the "90-day wonder." A 6-foot long double link roller timing chain spins both camshafts in the same direction, meaning the cam lobes on one bank rotate toward the intake follower while the other cam does the opposite. The solution was to use camshafts that were mirrors of each other. Sodium-filled exhaust valves and stainless steel intake valves take care of airflow in the hemispherical combustion chambers.

The 427 "cammer" thundered 650+ horsepower with dual four-barrel carbs. NASCAR passed hard on the outlandish engine at first, but was willing to relent if Ford would simply add 430 pounds of penalty weight to its cars. Ford turned down the deal and sold the engines to drag racers like Don "The Snake" Prudhomme. If that name's unfamiliar, get Prudhomme's awesome book, "My Life Beyond The 1320."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

Meanwhile, Chevrolet engineers were more interested in weight. Those mad scientists wanted small block weight from a big block 427, so out went the cast iron engine block, and in went aluminum. Thus, the 520-pound 1969 ZL-1 427 was born. ZL-1s dropped to 12:1 compression, but their open chamber, larger-port heads breathed better. The aluminum monster made it into 71 cars from the factory (69 Camaros and two Corvettes), and, even then, they were only possible thanks to central office production orders (COPO) from dealers like Fred Gibb Chevrolet.

One of these is not like the other

The aluminum ZL-1 Chevrolet 427 V8 under the hood of a Camaro COPO ZL-1 tribute - Lafontaine Classic Cars/YouTube

Here's a twist ending out of an Agatha Christie murder mystery. One of these engines secretly isn't a big block. The Ford 427 FE is actually a "medium block!" Ford did make big blocks -- the 385-series, which gave us the 429 Cobra Jet, Boss 429, and 460 V8s. The 385-series' 4.9-inch bore center spacing is extremely wide. Ford's FE V8s have a respectable 4.63-inch bore spacing, which is still plenty for the 400+ cube displacements Ford gave them, but the 385-series is where the truly atmosphere-gulping V8s spawned from.

Chevy's big block 4.84-inch bore center spacing is nearly as large as Ford's 385-series, and it certainly dwarfs the FE. It's that bore spacing that's most responsible for Chevrolet's ability to offer new 632 big blocks that avoid paper-thin cylinder walls. This larger bore spacing is also why 428 cubic inches was the end of the road for the FE, as Ford began gravitating more toward the bulkier 385-series, while Chevrolet continued punching out its big block to ever larger displacements.

In 1970, Chevy dropped a 454 bomb, offering up to 450 hp and 500 pound-feet of torque (yes, these are gross ratings) in the LS6. Even as Chevy big blocks got more asthmatic with smog controls, GM still upped displacement to 496 cubic inches for the 8.1-liter Vortec that was the last of Chevy's big block era.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

Finally, and more generally, Ford and Chevy engine designers evidently had spectacularly different mindsets on interchangeability and consistency. Switching parts between different Chevy V8s is usually trivial. Heck, even big blocks and Gen-I and II small blocks use the same firing order. But try swapping parts between Ford Cleveland and Windsor 351s, we dare you.

Want more like this? Join the Jalopnik newsletter to get the latest auto news sent straight to your inbox, and add us as a preferred search source on Google.

Read the original article on Jalopnik.
And he contemplated her absorbed young face with a thrill of possessorship in which pride in his own masc

the skies were filled with large clouds like strange airplanes drifting against the sides of tall buildings.who had recently rea
because this would mean participating in consumerist culturea frivolity that would distract them from their studies.the manager of the residency gives me a choice of daily

But most came to procure a mysterious certificate that would allow them to obtain other certificates that would ultimately result.that I had access so early to a game that I
settled in an abandoned hermitage outside the city walls and founded a community of canons in honor of Victor.INTERVIEWERFrost talks about coming close to poetry as a way

This kind of systemin which I raise and educate youis naturally for the purp
Two Afrofuturistic hit women with tall hair wraps and two futuristic Ku Klux Klan members crossing swords.Some of the huge spears of ice hanging from red and brown rock wall

before the salt fixes and gathers her back into black and white like moonlight on the daguerreotypes silver surface.But it was by bringing the perspective of the creative art
which were simultaneously art-histo

yolo county superior court

beaufort county clerk of court sc

dutchess county court

And you got these people that dont

I did that for the first tim

From All the Pretty Horses:He rode w
Police took two men into custody after an early-morning shooting on Thanksgiving outside the Gingerbread Man in Carlisle, according to online court documents and police.

Nasheem Ismail Clark, 25, and Kobe Jaylen Marsico, 28, of Harrisburg, were both charged with felony attempted aggravated assault, conspiracy to commit aggravated assault, firearms charges and reckless endangerment. An address for Clark was not listed on court documents.

Police said they were dispatched around 2:10 a.m. on Thursday to the Gingerbread Man on South Courthouse Avenue for a shooting. They found a vehicle hit by gunfire that was parked near the front of the restaurant near bar patrons.

Police arrested Clark and Marsico after reviewing video surveillance, interviewing witnesses and getting a search warrant.

Carlisle Police said they believe the shooting was targeted because of an earlier altercation at Gingerbread Man.

Police are asking anyone who witness a possible assault or argument at Gingerbread Man before the shooting or who witnessed the shooting to contact Carlisle Police at 717-243-5252.

Charging documents with further details were not immediately available. Both Clark and Marsico are in Cumberland County prison in lieu of $150,000 bail.
Students and parents from across the commonwealth gathered in Harrisburg to support charter schools in 2023. Jimmie Brown. | Jbrown@pennlive.com.

Pittsburgh Public Schools and three smaller districts accused Pa.s largest cyber charter school, Commonwealth Charter Academy, of failing to provide an adequate education to its students, in a lawsuit filed in Commonwealth Court on Tuesday.

The lawsuit states that CCA is operating in a manner that deprives students of their fundamental rights to an education and asks the court to stop the Pennsylvania Department of Education from charging them more than $12 million in tuition payments. The lawsuit points to CCAs low test scores and graduation rates and accuses CCA of breaking its charter by operating like a for-profit school.

This case is not about about eliminating school choice, said Tom King, the lead attorney for the four school districts. Its about ensuring that when there is school choice that the choice is a quality choice that is up to the standards that these kids are entitled to.

Commonwealth Charter Academy [CCA] denied the accusations and fired back, accusing Pittsburgh Public Schools of trying to shift attention away from the problems that are causing students to leave Pittsburgh schools.

Apparently, blaming and pointing the finger at public cyber charter schools is much easier than looking internally to fix what is broken, said Tim Eller, a spokesperson for CCA, in a press release on Wednesday.

The lawsuit pits Pa.s second and third largest educational entities in a legal battle. CCA overtook PPS as Pa.s second largest educational institution during an enrollment rush in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. In the last five years, CCA has gone from serving less than half as many students as PPS, to now serving more than twice as many. CCA now has more than 36,000 students enrolled. These students represent more than half a billion dollars of tuition payments from traditional public school districts.

Eller, CCAs spokesperson, said its enrollment has grown 271% over the last five years in the four districts involved in the lawsuit. That kind of growth does not happen by accident  it reflects families frustration or dissatisfaction with the educational environment in those districts, Eller said. And suing CCA does nothing to fix it.

The lawsuit is applying the Commonwealth Courts 2023 decision that students have a constitutional right to an adequate education in a new and untested way. If successful, some of the arguments in this new lawsuit could be used against other cyber charter schools in the future. Many of Pa.s other 13 cyber charter schools have test scores and graduation rates similar to CCAs. That could put in jeopardy the $1.2 billion in tuition payments made by traditional districts to cyber schools last year.

At this point we concluded that we were best served by focusing on the largest of them and frankly the most egregious of them in terms of test scores and methods of operation, said Ira Weiss, the solicitor for Pittsburgh Public Schools. It may be that once this case gets underway, other districts may seek to join in, there may be a decision to sue other [cyber schools]. But right now were focusing on CCA.

Moving in opposite but uncertain directions

The lawsuit comes at an uncertain time for both CCA and PPS.

A budget compromise in Harrisburg earlier this month cut tuition payments to cyber schools like CCA by $175 million. The budget included additional regulations of how cyber charter schools can operate, some of which could potentially dramatically change how many students are able to complete their work. And this is on top of a cut in special education funding in 2024 that some cyber schools say already cut their budgets by 10% this year.

On the same day that PPS filed its lawsuit this week, its school board failed to pass a plan to revitalize its schools and close nine school buildings that had been in the planning stages for more than two years. The boards proposed changes were meant to prepare the district for the realities of a district whose enrollment has been shrinking for two decades.

PPS has benefited from Pa.s hold harmless educational funding provisions that have protected shrinking school districts. But PPS continues to lose students even as the overall population in the city of Pittsburgh has stabilized. The value of its tax base has been shrinking because the citys biggest office buildings have never fully recovered from a pandemic drop in value. PPSs board has proposed both raising taxes and cutting costs this yearand still will have a larger budget than CCA.

Is CCA acting as a nonprofit?

PPS argues in its lawsuit that CCA is no longer acting like a nonprofit even if technically it is registered as a nonprofit because of the high salary of its leaders and because of the amount of money it is spending on constructing buildings.

CCA is functioning de facto as a for-profit enterprise contrary to its nonprofit charter and Pennsylvania law, according to the lawsuit.

The lawsuit cites the high salaries and compensation of CCAs leadership team. PennLive looked at the salary of charter school CEOs, including the salary of CCAs CEO Tom Longenecker, and found that his base salary was nearly identical to the salary of PPSs superintendent, Wayne Walters. When compared to the number of students enrolled, CCAs CEO actually earns less money than PPS superintendent.

PennLive also analyzed the finances of Pa.s cyber schools and found that CCA is unique, even among cyber charter schools, in terms of how much money it spends on buying and constructing buildings. The lawsuit complaint says this spending violates the states charter school law, which limits how cyber schools can use buildings for instruction.

Why would you charge these schools tuition that enables the cyber charter school to build brick and mortar schools, to build a Taj Mahal? said King, the lead attorney for the lawsuit.

CCA says it uses its more than two-dozen buildings in a way that adheres to the spirit of the law. Our Family Service Centers across Pennsylvania exist as regional locations where our staff work from, and so families have in-person access to support, educators, technology, and community resources  exactly the type of innovation the Charter School Law encourages and allows, Eller said.

Who decides if CCAs students are being served?

The lawsuit claims that CCAs students are receiving an inadequate education and cites its low test scores and graduation rates. Last year, for example, only 4% of CCAs students tested on grade-level or above in math on end-of-course exams.

CCA said in a statement that its low test scores reflect the fact that cyber school students opt out of state tests in high numbers. Low participation results in scoring penalties and misleading performance indicators, according to CCAs statement.

This is only partly true. While most cyber schools have low participation rates compared to traditional school districts, CCA has a much higher proportion of its students opt out of state tests even compared to its 13 cyber charter peers.

CCAs leaders dont think test scores are a reliable indicator of how well its students are doing. Parents are the best measure of their childs academic growth and success at school, Eller said. And Eller accused traditional schools of having their own test score challenges.

CCAs claim is at least partially true: for example, only 10% of the 77 students enrolled in PPS own cyber school last year scored on grade level or above in math. Weiss said PPS is in the process of revamping its cyber school curriculum.

They have changed the administration in that program and are making significant changes, he said. Obviously, theres room for improvement.

The lawsuit also highlights CCAs graduation rates, which have historically been below 70%. (The school has said those rates have recently shown improvement.) But as the lawsuit notes, Carrick High School, in Pittsburgh, has a graduation rate comparable to CCAs.

Overall, PPSs graduation rates have improved,  Weiss said. There are schools that have challenges, and were dealing with that.

Weiss said he thinks CCAs leaders are either tacitly or openly encouraging parents to opt out of state tests. He doesnt think CCAs parents are getting good information about how much their students are actually learning.

I believe theyre easy either being misled or not informed, Weiss said.

Charter school renewal

The lawsuit cited an article from PennLives series about CCA called Virtual Dominance to highlight the fact that the Pennsylvania Department of Education [PDE] hasnt renewed CCAs charter in recent years because the school would not agree to an enrollment cap. Although six other cyber charter schools have agreed to enrollment caps, the caps are voluntary. In its statement Wednesday, CCA said it has otherwise complied with the charter school renewal process.

Weiss said it is the Department of Educations [PDE] failure to act on CCAs charter that exemplifies its failures more generally to regulate CCA. Either dont renew them or you renew them and come to some resolution, Weiss said. PDE has all the tools it needs to provide oversight to cyber charter schools and they havent been doing it.

A spokesperson for PDE said the department doesnt comment on pending litigation.

CCA has a month to formally respond to the lawsuit.
Two sisters were killed trying to rescue their disabled father from a house fire in Essex County on Thanksgiving, authorities said.

Frantzia Fleury, 49, and Pojanee Fleury, 42, died in the fire that started around 5 p.m. Thursday at their home on 600 Mosswood Avenue in Orange, according to a spokesperson for the Essex County Prosecutors Office.

They were pronounced dead at the scene at 6:47 p.m., the spokesperson said.

The father and six others escaped the fire uninjured, she said.

The cause of the fire is under investigation, and no additional details are available at this time, the spokesperson said.

A message left for the City of Orange Township fire chief wasnt immediately returned.

A spokesperson for the Red Cross of New Jersey said her organization provided funds for lodgings and clothes for eight people displaced by the fire.
Rewriting The Script

The 2025 Guangzhou Auto Show underscored a dramatic reversal in Chinas automotive hierarchy. According to a report from Sina, the long-standing joint-venture model, where global brands like Toyota and Nissan dictated technology while Chinese partners handled scale, has effectively collapsed. With domestic EV makers surging and software-driven features now central to consumer choice, foreign OEMs have been losing ground fast. Imported-vehicle sales have slumped this year, while more than half of new-energy vehicle (NEV) debuts came from Chinese brands.

That assumption no longer holds. Japanese automakers, rather than resisting Chinas rise, are now learning from it and leveraging it. By embedding Chinese suppliers deep into their value chains, expanding local R&D, and merging homegrown innovation with Japans engineering rigor, they are re-engineering their China playbook.

The result? A new breed of foreign brand that is faster, smarter, and more connected, using Chinas strengths to stay competitive without surrendering identity.

Toyota

ToyotaHuawei Alliance Signals a Strategic Breakthrough

Toyotas bZ7 electric SUV, developed by GAC-Toyota, headlines this transformation. The model arrives equipped with Huaweis full technological suite, from the HarmonyOS cockpit UI to the DriveONE software. Its the first Toyota to integrate an entire Chinese digital ecosystem, combining flagship-level design with advanced driver-assistance sensors, face recognition, and long-range battery options. This isnt Japanese engineering tailored for China; its a fusion of both.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

The move marks a profound philosophical shift. In a market where connectivity and software ecosystems define purchase decisions, Toyota is betting that experience trumps mechanical conservatism. Through Huaweis platform, Toyota instantly plugs into a trusted, widely used interface, accelerating relevance and slashing R&D costs. Instead of rebuilding its own digital stack, the company is co-opting Chinas best-in-class tech to win back momentum.

Nissan Extends the Model Even to Gasoline Cars

Nissan is taking the same approach further, bringing Chinese tech into its internal-combustion lineup. The latest Teana has become the worlds first gasoline sedan equipped with a HarmonyOS cockpit, a symbolic crossover of the old and new. The message is unmistakable: the Chinese-style digital experience is now the default expectation, regardless of powertrain.

This shift also exposes the collapse of the old joint-venture logic. Once, Japanese firms supplied the technology while Chinese partners handled production. Now, Nissan is letting local software define the user experience while maintaining its signature mechanical tuning. Recognizing the futility of competing head-on with Chinas cockpit systems. Japanese brands are partnering instead, and reaping the rewards.

Nissan

As Chinas Auto Sector Faces Strain, Timing Favors Japan

Ironically, this integration push comes just as Chinas corporate landscape is showing cracks. According to Nikkei Asia, nearly a quarter of listed Chinese firms reported losses from January to September 2025, the highest since the 2008 financial crisis. Overcapacity, slowing demand, and bruising price wars have squeezed margins across the EV sector. Even as domestic suppliers remain technologically advanced, many automakers themselves are under financial stress.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

That imbalance creates an opening for Japans global players. With diversified revenues and stronger balance sheets, Toyota and Nissan can access Chinese innovation without sharing its financial vulnerabilities. They gain the upside of local tech leadership, minus the downside of overextension that now dogs many Chinese peers.

LEROY MARION

A Hybrid Formula Could Reshape the Market

Just a month ago, Ford CEO Jim Farley warned that Chinese EV specialists could Put us all out of business. The Guangzhou show suggests the opposite. Rather than retreating, the strongest Japanese brands are adapting, blending world-class engineering discipline with Chinese software, battery, and connectivity systems. The result: products that meet Chinese expectations on tech and price, but with global-brand reliability baked in.

This hybrid strategy may ultimately redefine what competitive means in Chinas auto market. With domestic players under pressure and foreign OEMs learning to play by local rules, the balance of power is shifting again.

Nissan

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

This story was originally published by Autoblog on Nov 28, 2025, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Autoblog as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Firefighters work to extinguish a fire which broke out at Wang Fuk Court, a residential estate in the Tai Po district of Hong Kong's New Territories, Wednesday, Nov. 26 2025. (AP Photo/Chan Long Hei) AP

By DAVID RISING and CHAN HO-HIM, Associated Press

HONG KONG (AP)  Hong Kong firefighters found dozens more bodies Friday in an intensive apartment-by-apartment search of a high-rise complex where a massive fire engulfed seven buildings, and authorities arrested another 8 people involved in the towers renovation. The death toll in one of the citys deadliest blazes rose to 128, and many remain unaccounted for.

First responders found that some fire alarms in the complex, which housed many older people, did not sound when tested, said Andy Yeung, the director of Hong Kong Fire Services, though he did not say how many were not working or if others were.

The blaze jumped rapidly from one building to the next as foam panels and bamboo scaffolding covered in netting apparently installed by a construction company caught fire.

Authorities on Friday arrested seven men and one woman, ranging in age from 40 to 63, including scaffolding subcontractors, directors of an engineering consultant company and project managers supervising the renovation, the Independent Commission Against Corruption said in a statement.

On Friday, crews prioritized apartments from which they had received emergency calls during the blaze but were unable to reach in the hours that the fire burned out of control, Derek Armstrong Chan, a deputy director of Hong Kong Fire Services, told reporters. It took firefighters a day to bring the fire under control, and it was not fully extinguished until Friday morning  some 40 hours after it started.

Even two days after the fire began, smoke continued to drift out of the charred skeletons of the buildings from the occasional flare-up.

Firefighters try to extinguish a flames engulfing a building after a fire broke out at Wang Fuk Court, a residential estate in the Tai Po district of Hong Kong's New Territories, Wednesday, Nov. 26 2025. (AP Photo/Chan Long Hei) AP

More bodies may be found

Some 200 people remain unaccounted for, Secretary for Security Chris Tang told reporters. That includes 89 bodies that have not yet been identified. Yet more bodies might be recovered, authorities said, though crews have finished a search for anyone living trapped inside.

More than 2,300 firefighters and medical personnel were involved in the operation, and 12 firefighters were among the 79 people injured, Yeung said. One firefighter was also killed, he had said previously.

Katy Lo, 70, a resident of Wang Fuk Court, was not home when the fire started Wednesday. She rushed back roughly an hour later to see that the blaze had spread to her building.

Thats my home. I still cant really believe what happened, Lo said on Friday as she registered for government assistance for affected households. This all still feels like a bad dream.

The dead included two Indonesian migrant workers, the Indonesian foreign ministry said Thursday. About 11 other migrants from the country who were working as domestic helpers in the apartment complex remained missing, Indonesian Consul General Yul Edison said.

The government said all official flags in the city will be lowered to half staff in mourning from Saturday to Monday. The citys leader, John Lee, will lead a three-minute silence Saturday from the government headquarters.

The apartment complex of eight, 31-story buildings in Tai Po district, a suburb near Hong Kongs border with mainland China, was built in the 1980s and had been undergoing a major renovation. It had almost 2,000 apartments and some 4,800 residents.

Highly flammable foam panels blamed

Three men  the directors and an engineering consultant of a construction company  were arrested Thursday on suspicion of manslaughter, and police said company leaders were suspected of gross negligence.

Police have not identified the company where the suspects worked, but documents posted to the homeowners associations website showed that the Prestige Construction & Engineering Company was in charge of renovations. Police have seized boxes of documents from the company, where phones rang unanswered Thursday.

In addition to the new arrests Friday, the anti-corruption agency also searched the suspects offices and seized relevant documents and bank records.

Police said they found highly flammable plastic foam panels attached to the windows on each floor of the one unaffected tower. The panels were believed to have been installed by the construction company but the purpose was not clear.

Preliminary investigations showed the fire started on a lower-level scaffolding net of one of the buildings, and then spread rapidly as the foam panels caught fire, said Tang, the secretary for security.

The blaze ignited the foam panels, causing the glass to shatter and leading to a swift intensification of the fire and its spread into the interior spaces, Tang said.

Authorities suspected some materials on the exterior walls of the high-rise buildings did not meet fire resistance standards, allowing the unusually fast spread of the fire.

Authorities planned immediate inspections of housing complexes undergoing major renovations to ensure scaffolding and construction materials meet safety standards.

The fire was the deadliest in Hong Kong in decades. A 1996 fire in a commercial building in Kowloon killed 41 people. A warehouse fire in 1948 killed 176 people, according to the South China Morning Post.

___

Researcher Shihuan Chen in Beijing contributed to this report.
Emergency personnel gather in a cordoned off area where National Guard soldiers were shot near the White House Wednesday, Nov. 26, 2025, in Washington. AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein

WASHINGTON, D.C.  Jeanine Pirro, the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, announced Friday that charges against a man who authorities say shot two National Guard members have been upgraded to first-degree murder.

The announcement comes after the death of one of the soldiers.

Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, were hospitalized in critical condition after Wednesday afternoons shooting and President Donald Trump announced Thursday evening that Beckstrom had died.

U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirros office said the charges against Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national who worked with the CIA during the Afghanistan War, now include one count of first-degree murder, three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence and two counts of assault with intent to kill while armed.

Beckstrom and Wolfe were deployed with the West Virginia National Guard as part of President Donald Trumps crime-fighting mission that federalized the D.C. police force. The president has also deployed National Guard members to Democratic-run cities  from Chicago to Los Angeles  to assist with his mass deportation efforts.

Trump called the shooting a terrorist attack and criticized the Biden administration for enabling Afghans who worked with U.S. forces during the Afghanistan War to enter the U.S. The president has said he wants to permanently pause migration from poorer nations and expel millions of immigrants from the country.

In an interview on Fox News, Pirro said there are many charges to come beyond the upgraded murder charge. She said her heart goes out to the family of Beckstrom, who volunteered to serve and ended up being shot ambush-style on the cold streets of Washington, D.C., by an individual who will now be charged with murder in the first degree.

Pirro declined to discuss the suspects motive, saying officials have been working around the clock on that question. Investigators are continuing to execute warrants in the state of Washington, where Lakanwal lived, and other parts of the country, she said.

Wolfe remains in very critical condition, West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey said Friday. He ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in recognition of Beckstroms death.

These two West Virginia heroes were serving our country and protecting our nations capital when they were maliciously attacked, Morrisey said. Their courage and commitment to duty represent the very best of our state.

Lakanwal entered the US in 2021

Lakanwal entered the U.S. in 2021 through Operation Allies Welcome, a Biden administration program that evacuated and resettled tens of thousands of Afghans after the U.S. withdrawal from the country, officials said. Lakanwal applied for asylum during the Biden administration, but his asylum was approved under the Trump administration, #AfghanEvac said in a statement.

Lakanwal has been living in Bellingham, Washington, about 80 miles (130 kilometers) north of Seattle, with his wife and five children, said his former landlord, Kristina Widman.

Lakanwal had briefly worked as an independent contractor for Amazon Flex, which allows people to use their own cars to deliver packages, a company spokesperson shared with The Associated Press. Lakanwal delivered packages from the end of July to the end of August and hadnt been active since.

Mohammad Sherzad, a neighbor of Lakanwals in Bellingham, told the AP in a phone interview Friday that Lakanwal was polite, quiet and spoke very little English.

Sherzad said he attended the same mosque as Lakanwal and had heard from other members that Lakanwal was struggling to find work. Some of his children attended the same school as Lakanwals children, Sherzad said.

He was so quiet and the kids were so polite, they were so playful. But we didnt see anything bad about him. He was looking OK, Sherzad said. Sherzad said Lakanwal disappeared about two weeks ago.

In his address to the troops Thursday, Trump said that Lakanwal went cuckoo. I mean, he went nuts.

People who knew Lakanwal say he served in a CIA-backed Afghan Army unit before immigrating to the United States. Lakanwal worked in one of the special Zero Units in the southern province of Kandahar, according to a resident of the eastern Afghan province of Khost who identified himself as Lakanwals cousin. He said Lakanwal was originally from the province and that his brother had worked in the unit as well.

The cousin spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals. He said Lakanwal had started out working as a security guard for the unit in 2012 and was later promoted to become a team leader and a GPS specialist. A former official from the unit, who spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the situation, said Lakanwals brother was a platoon leader.

Zero Units were paramilitary units manned by Afghans but backed by the CIA that also served in front-line fighting with CIA paramilitary officers. Activists had attributed abuses to the units. They played a key role in the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from the country, providing security around Kabul International Airport as the Americans and withdrew from the country.

Beckstrom exemplified leadership, dedication, and professionalism

Beckstrom had enlisted in 2023, the same year she graduated high school, and served with distinction as a military police officer with the 863rd Military Police Company, the West Virginia National Guard said in a statement.

She exemplified leadership, dedication, and professionalism, the statement said, adding that Beckstrom volunteered to serve as part of Operation D.C. Safe and Beautiful, helping to ensure the safety and security of our nations capital.

The president called Beckstrom an incredible person, outstanding in every single way.

On Wednesday night, Trump called for the reinvestigation of all Afghan refugees who had entered under the Biden administration initiative that brought roughly 76,000 people to the country, many of whom had worked as interpreters and translators.

The program has faced intense scrutiny from Trump and others over allegations of gaps in the vetting process, even as advocates say there was extensive vetting and the program offered a lifeline to people at risk of Taliban reprisals.

The director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Joseph Edlow said in a statement that the agency would take additional steps to screen people from 19 high-risk countries to the maximum degree possible.

Edlow didnt name the countries. But in June, the administration banned travel to the U.S. by citizens of 12 countries and restricted access from seven others, citing national security concerns.
A farmworker raises her hands as armed immigration agents approach during a raid on a California farm in July 2025. Blake Fagan/AFP via Getty Images Blake Fagan/AFP via Getty Images

(The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.)

Author: Tevis Garrett Graddy-Lovelace, American University School of International Service

The U.S. government has caused massive food waste during President Donald Trumps second term. Policies such as immigration raids, tariff changes and temporary and permanent cuts to food assistance programs have left farmers short of workers and money, food rotting in fields and warehouses, and millions of Americans hungry. And that doesnt even include the administrations actual destruction of edible food.

The U.S. government estimates that more than 47 million people in America dont have enough food to eat  even with federal and state governments spending hundreds of billions of dollars a year on programs to help them.

Yet, huge amounts of food  on average in the U.S., as much as 40% of it  rots before being eaten. That amount is equivalent to 120 billion meals a year: more than twice as many meals as would be needed to feed those 47 million hungry Americans three times a day for an entire year.

This colossal waste has enormous economic costs and renders useless all the water and resources used to grow the food. In addition, as it rots, the wasted food emits in the U.S. alone over 4 million metric tons of methane  a heat-trapping greenhouse gas.

As a scholar of wasted food, I have watched this problem worsen since Trump began his second term in January 2025. Despite this administrations claim of streamlining the government to make its operations more efficient, a range of recent federal policies have, in fact, exacerbated food wastage.

Immigration policy

Supplying fresh foods, such as fruits, vegetables and dairy, requires skilled workers on tight timelines to ensure ripeness, freshness and high quality.

The Trump administrations widespread efforts to arrest and deport immigrants have sent Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Border Patrol and other agencies into hundreds of agricultural fields, meat processing plants and food production and distribution sites. Supported by billions of taxpayer dollars, they have arrested thousands of food workers and farmworkers  with lethal consequences at times.

Dozens of raids have not only violated immigrants human rights and torn families apart: They have jeopardized the national food supply. Farmworkers already work physically hard jobs for low wages. In legitimate fear for their lives and liberty, reports indicate that in some places 70% of people harvesting, processing and distributing food stopped showing up to work by mid-2025.

News reports have identified many instances where crops have been left to rot in abandoned fields. Even the U.S. Department of Labor declared in October 2025 that aggressive farm raids drive farmworkers into hiding, leave substantial amounts of food unharvested and thus pose a risk of supply shock-induced food shortages.

Food specially formulated to feed starving children is marked for disposal in a U.S. government warehouse in July 2025. Stephen B. Morton for The Washington Post via Getty Images Stephen B. Morton for The Washington Post via Getty Images

Foreign aid cuts

When the Trump administration all but shut down the U.S. Agency for International Development in early 2025, the agency had 500 tons of ready-to-eat, high-energy biscuits worth US$800,000, stored to distribute to starving people around the world who had been displaced by violence or natural disasters. With no staff to distribute the biscuits, they expired while sitting in a warehouse in Dubai.

Incinerating the out-of-date biscuits reportedly cost an additional $125,000.

An additional 70,000 tons of USAID food aid may also have been destroyed.

Tariffs

In the late 20th century, as globalized trade patterns grew, U.S. farmers struggled with agricultural prices below their production costs. Yet tariffs in the first Trump administration did not protect small farms.

And the tariffs imposed in early 2025, after Trump regained the White House, severed U.S. soybean trade with China for months. Meanwhile, theres nowhere to store the mountains of soybeans. An October 2025 agreement may resume some activity, but at lower price levels and a slower pace than before, as China looks to Brazil and Argentina to meet its vast demand.

Though the soybeans were intended to feed the Chinese pig industry, not humans, the specter of waste loomsboth in terms of the potential spoilage of soybeans and the actual human food that could have been grown in their place.

Mature soybeans sit unharvested in an Indiana field in October 2025. Jeremy Hogan/Getty Images Jeremy Hogan/Getty Images

Other efforts lead to more waste

Since taking office, the second Trump administration has taken many steps aimed at efficiency that actually boosted food waste. Mass firings of food safety personnel risks even more outbreaks of foodborne diseases, tainted imports, and agricultural pathogens  which can erupt into crises requiring mass destruction, for instance, of nearly 35,000 turkeys with bird flu in Utah.

In addition, the administration canceled a popular program that helped schools and food banks buy food from local farmers, though many of the crops had already been planted when the cancellation announcement was made. That food had to find new buyers or risk being wasted, too. And the farmers were unable to count on a key revenue source to keep their farms afloat.

Also, the administration slashed funding for the Federal Emergency Management Agency that helped food producers, restaurants and households recover from disasters  including restoring power to food-storage refrigeration.

The fall 2025 government shutdown left the governments major food aid program, SNAP, in limbo for weeks, derailing communities ability to meet their basic needs. Grocers, who benefit substantially from SNAP funds, announced discounts for SNAP recipients  to help them afford food and to keep food supplies moving before they rotted. The Department of Agriculture ordered them not to, saying SNAP customers must pay the same prices as other customers.

Food waste did not start with the Trump administration. But the administrations policies  though they claim to be seeking efficiency  have compounded voluminous waste at a time of growing need. This Thanksgiving, think about wasted food  as a problem, and as a symptom of larger problems.

American University School of International Service masters student Laurel Levin contributed to the writing of this article.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article here: https://theconversation.com/as-us-hunger-rises-trump-administrations-efficiency-goals-cause-massive-food-waste-270027.
What a week of political earthquakes!

Donald Trump goes from fighting tooth and nail against releasing the Epstein files to endorsing it. The House and Senate vote almost unanimously to do so.

The president welcomes to the White House the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, who was formerly a worldwide pariah, widely believed to have ordered the slaughter and dismemberment of an American resident and journalist. Trump not only rolls out the red carpet for a royal welcome, but exonerates his Saudi friend, telling the media that the prince knew nothing about it (the murder).

The president tells a member of the media who asks about the killing with the prince present, that she is a terrible person and a terrible reporter.

Trump refers to a reporter as Piggy after she asked a question.

Democratic former members of the military tell those now serving that they need not and should not acquiesce to unlawful orders, and the president responds by referencing them as traitors who should be tried and potentially subjected to capital punishment. The result is that he has placed their lives in danger and subjected them to death threats.

After expressing contempt for and threatening to arrest New York City Mayor-Elect Zohran Mamdani, the two engage in a White House lovefest, as if they were longtime allies and friends. The president even announced that he and the Democratic Socialist agree on many issues.

When asked by a reporter if Trump sycophant, New York U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik, is right in accusing Mamdani of being a jihadist, Trump responds, No, I dont think so. You say a lot of things in campaigns.

Georgia Republican firebrand and former Trump sycophant Marjorie Taylor-Greene is labeled a traitor by the president and announces that she will resign from Congress.

What more could possibly have happened within such a short period of time?

Oren Spiegler, Peters Township, Pa.
So, you've paid a fortune for a new SUV only to drive it off the lot, leave the dealer's sight, and hear sharp clicking noises. Then you mash the throttle, and the engine gasps for breath, lacking the push to merge onto the freeway. And no, the metallic click isn't your house keys rattling in the console cubby. It's because that lavish SUV came with a factory problem. How frustrating. Sometimes, these "minor" issues are just squeaky brakes, a loose trim, or maybe an untorqued bolt. But other times they're as serious as an oil leak, an engine stall, or the full replacement of an EV battery.

Out of the sea of SUVs on the market, a handful stand out as people's favorites, even when they've been labeled as the least unreliable and spend too much time back at the dealer for fixes. Some have been recalled over potential fire risks or for defective software that could cause a door to open unexpectedly  not as funny as it sounds. Despite that, people still flock to buy them. Call it "The Paradox of the Unreliable Purchase." To illustrate, Consumer Reports gave the Jeep Wrangler a low reliability score because of steering and in-car electronics issues, yet its strong resale value and powerful off-road credentials mean many buyers are willing to tolerate the repairs. A paradox, no doubt. Let's look at specific cases where Consumer Reports has handed SUVs terrible reliability scores, but for reasons that nobody understands, they continue to sell.

Read more: You've Been Warned: Buying A House In These Florida Cities Will Cost You

Mercedes-Benz GLE

Mercedes-Benz GLE - Just dance/Shutterstock

The Mercedes-Benz GLE is everything you'd want in a luxury family SUV. A badge with gravitas, a pampering cabin, and engines ranging from a mild-hybrid 2.0-liter turbo to punchy six- and eight-cylinder options. Inside, the usual Mercedes theater of ambient lighting, high-grade materials, and the MBUX dual-screen infotainment, with crisp graphics and voice assistant. On a good day, a lounge on wheels. On a bad day, that is where the facade cracks. Mercedes' own manuals and dealer guides detail how the MBUX system can freeze, crash, or misbehave, requiring resets or software updates. According to Consumer Reports testing, this SUV earns a predicted reliability rating well below average, listing it among the least reliable midsize SUVs in 2025. Problem areas reported by users include transmission, fuel and climate systems, brakes (a very dangerous one), and electrical accessories.

Advertisement Advertisement

Besides, a March 2024 NHTSA recall covered no fewer than 116,020 U.S.-made GLE and GLS models with 48-volt mild-hybrid systems whose ground connections could loosen and potentially cause a fire. On the resale side, the GLE is average. Tolerable. CarEdge estimates a 48% depreciation after 5 years, but it might be way more, especially once high maintenance and repair costs are factored in. To add insult to injury, Republican tariffs are hitting Mercedes hard, meaning you can end up with a pricey, tariff-inflated deluxe SUV that CR thinks is one of the least reliable and that's sliding faster in resale than other mainstream rivals. So, luxury touch? Yes. Deluxe ownership experience? It depends on how you feel about warning lights and recall notices.

Ford Escape Hybrid

Ford Escape Hybrid - Jonathan Weiss/Shutterstock

This Louisville-produced SUV, using a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with an electric motor, is supposed to be the sensible happy medium with a compact footprint, good fuel economy (39 mpg average), and familiar Ford driving. But on reliability, oh no. Consumer Reports scores the Ford Escape Hybrid just 21/100  yes, not a typo  which makes it one of the very worst new SUVs on sale on the market. CR's members cite major issues with brakes, in-car electronics, and in certain cases even a full replacement of the hybrid battery. No problem if the car is still under warranty, but what happens once it expires? You'll face a big-ticket repair. In the last few years, the brand has been hit with multiple recalls. One of them dealt with engine failure and fire risks on some 2.5-liter hybrids and PHEVs, with the NHTSA noting hazards of engine block breaches and oil leaks onto ignition sources.

Another, issued by the NHTSA in May 2025, was associated with battery software updates and powertrain control issues that might lead to loss of motive power or incorrect fault detection in 2020-2024 Escape PHEVs. An extra one focused on digital instrument clusters and rearview camera images freezing or vanishing. None is ideal in a family SUV. Resale value is equally sobering. A CarEdge depreciation analysis in November 2025 suggests this Ford model loses a hefty 55% in a five-year period. For instance, an Escape's $35,685 ST-Line Select Hybrid would be valued at $16,058. That's a huge blow coupled with possible recalls, brake problems, and potential battery substitutions. All these predicaments, plus increasing prices, mean buying a Ford for less than $30,000 is harder than ever and might never happen again.

Volkswagen Taos

Volkswagen Taos - Jonathan Weiss/Shutterstock

The Taos is VW's small crossover for buyers who want something tidier than a Tiguan but still tall. Under the bonnet sits an efficient 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (28-31 mpg). On the inside, modern, clean, minimalistic. It comfortably fits five people, with generous rear legroom, upholstery made of durable cloth, CloudTex, or leather (on the top-tier SEL model), heated front seats, Climatronic Touch, 10-color LED ambient light, and an 8-inch floating touchscreen display. But Consumer Reports is not enchanted at all. In its 2025 rankings, highlighted in Jalopnik as well, the Taos lands near the bottom of the small SUV segment with a reliability score categorized as "worse than average." Owners have reported problems with brakes, head gasket leakage, and in-car electronics. Also, complaints about jerky gearshifts, drivetrain hesitation, and random warning lights, apart from unpleasant noises.

Advertisement Advertisement

Moreover, a 2023 NHTSA bulletin covers recurring engine management and stalling issues. Resale isn't sparkling either. Depreciation data shows a 54% value loss in five years, as per CarEdge, and a 48.1% calculated by iSeeCars. The Taos leans heavily on software. Digital instruments and a central touchscreen run VW's modern infotainment, with wireless smartphone integration and a suite of driver-assist tech. Cutting-edge when it works. When not, glitches, lag, and the occasional system resets make you long for old-fashioned knobs and buttons. If you live in one of the states with the best economies in the U.S., you can afford to be picky; there's plenty of choice and strong competition in the SUV market. The Taos drives nicely enough, no doubt. But Consumer Reports' verdict, plus the depreciation curve, suggests that your money and your sanity might be safer parked elsewhere.

Volkswagen ID.4

Volkswagen ID.4 - Josh Lefkowitz/Getty Images

Advertisement Advertisement

Launched in 2021, the first German ID.4s arrived in the U.S. in March, and the American assembly began in July 2022 in Chattanooga, Tennessee. It was Volkswagen's electric clean-slate moment. A family-friendly EV SUV with usable range (200-300 miles), a roomy cabin, and accessible pricing. Airy and pleasant, the interior featured a minimalistic dash and central touchscreen handling almost everything  drive modes, climate, navigation, and beyond. And that's where the problems started. Excessive reliance on software. The ID.4 scores a poor 29/100 on reliability by Consumer Reports, as its members point to headaches related to batteries, charging, electronics, body hardware, and climate control. In other words, most of the car. Let's review 1 of 11 recalls. In April 2023, VW recalled 16,207 units over faulty door handles that could allow doors to open while driving, prompting NHTSA filings.

Solution? Owners returned their cars for new handles and software updates to prevent accidental unlatching. When it comes to resale, the ID.4 behaves like many non-Tesla EVs: it sheds value fast. CarEdge notes this compact SUV will depreciate 63% after five years. Thus, an AWD Pro model with an 82 kWh battery and $48,995 MSRP would be worth $18,128. Breathe. iSeeCars calculates 62%; a little less. Keep in mind that EVs, in general, depreciate more steeply than hybrids and gasoline SUVs because of market competition, initial high prices, degradation of components, and the rapid strides in electric vehicle technology. The ID.4 might sound clever on paper, but it's pretty temperamental and overly dependent on software that isn't robust enough. To save thousands of dollars, this is the type of car you should only buy used unless you're comfortable being a beta tester.

Jeep Grand Cherokee

Jeep Grand Cherokee - Jonathan Weiss/Shutterstock

For decades, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has been an aspirational Jeep. Imposing and high-tech, it's more refined than a Wrangler, more upmarket than a Cherokee, and today available as a plug-in hybrid 4xe with serious output and some electric range. With a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, it delivers around 375 hp and strong torque. Inside, a charming mid-price deluxe package that includes big screens, digital instruments, optional passenger display, leather, wood, and a pack of driver-assistance features. Now you understand why people sign up for chunky payments. Then, you look at the reliability data. Owners who have shared their experiences led Consumer Reports to give the Grand Cherokee and three-row Grand Cherokee L a grim 22/100 score. Among the least reliable new vehicles. Why? Because of failures in the drive system, engine electronics, steering and suspension, climate controls, noises, and leaks.

On their side, the plug-in variants add their own drama. In November 2025, the Associated Press reported that Jeep issued recalls for 320,000 4xe models (Grand Cherokee and Wrangler) over engine shutdowns, loss of power, and fire risks linked to the plug-in powertrain. NHTSA consumer alerts told owners to park outside and away from buildings until recall work is completed because of the chance that the high-voltage battery could ignite even when the vehicle is off. On resale, CarEdge says this Jeep will depreciate 54% in five years, Kelley Blue Book around 52%, and iSeeCars estimates 52.7%. It doesn't differ much from the standard Cherokee, which loses over 50% of its value by age, or the Wagoneer, also suffering from a terrible resale value. The entire clan seems to be on a depreciation spiral.

Jeep Wrangler

Jeep Wrangler - Artistic Operations/Getty Images

If there's one SUV you expect not to be unreliable, it's the Jeep Wrangler. An off-road hero, but a workshop regular. Launched in 1986, the Wrangler was designed to become a worthy scion of the bulletproof CJ series, but Jeep has let this robust all-terrain fall deep into the dark hole of poor reliability. Issues began around 2011 due to the shift into complex electronics and almost coincided with the brand's integration into Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), the precursor to the current Stellantis corporation. Not to blame, just saying. Consumer Reports' latest data gives this off-roader an awful 27/100 score, based on CR's member surveys, and also highlights that the JL generation (2018) has gathered 14 recall campaigns since its first model year. This is not exactly confidence-inspiring for something marketed as indestructible. Incredibly, the Wrangler still looks irresistible with a 2.0-liter turbo four, a 3.6 V6, the wild 6.4 V8 in the Rubicon, or the 4xe plug-in hybrid.

Advertisement Advertisement

The boxy body, removable doors, and ladder frame are a love letter to old-school off-roading, along with improved sound insulation. The problem is everything after the honeymoon, including issues across steering, suspension, in-car electronics, and those all-important noises and leaks that can drive you mad on a daily commute. In addition, Jeep has been firefighting, literally, with its plug-in version  over 375,000 vehicles recalled because high-voltage battery problems could cause fires. Here's the twist. Despite its reliability horror stories, the Wrangler is a resale monster. iSeeCars estimates a 35.6% five-year depreciation, while CarEdge only 29%. Quite a contradiction. An off-road SUV which Consumer Reports holds near the bottom of the pile, yet one that buyers continue flocking to, and one that used-car shoppers keep paying strong money for.

Jeep Compass

Jeep Compass - Artistic Operations/Getty Images

The Wrangler is the lovable rogue. The Compass, the awkward cousin. Consumer Reports has had it in the crosshairs for years. Back in 2021, a breakdown of CR data cited the Compass with a reliability score of 21/100. Meaning if you valued your peace of mind, you should avoid it. Since then, Jeep has tried to clean up its image. In 2024-2025, Consumer Reports' view of the Compass has softened a smidgen to "average reliability" across recent model years, though noting that owner feedback remained mixed. Mechanically, the 2023-on Compass at least looks more serious than the miserable early versions. According to Jeep dealer write-ups in April 2025, current models use a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and an eight-speed automatic, paired with all-wheel drive. Reasonably brisk in town, but far from being a rocket on freeways.

Doors open to reveal a respectable-looking cabin with a 10.1-inch Uconnect touchscreen, digital cluster on higher trims, and a decent spread of active-safety tech, from lane-keeping assist to automatic emergency braking. Scratch the surface, though, and the old Jeep narrative creeps back in. The NHTSA report omn the vehicle warns about potential powertrain and software gremlins, plus drivability issues, stalling incidents, and warning lights on some 2023-2024 models. Owners will be depressingly familiar with the "software update required" phrase. Resale? Well, it depends on mileage and condition. But in general, CarEdge and iSeeCars suggest the Compass loses value faster than the Wrangler but not so catastrophically (44% and 46.1% respectively in five years). Without sugarcoating, the Compass is the low-cost path to get into a Jeep that Consumer Reports has repeatedly warned buyers about.

Chevrolet Blazer

Chevrolet Blazer - The Global Guy/Shutterstock

Advertisement Advertisement

The modern Chevrolet Blazer looks like a Camaro put on hiking boots and genuinely appealing from the driver's seat. In its ICE (internal combustion engine) form, you can see a 2.0-liter turbo four or a 3.6 V6, both paired with a slick nine-speed automatic. The steering is crisp, the ride is on the firm side of comfortable, and the cabin, nice, with a big central touchscreen, digital instruments, the usual GM adaptive cruise control, and a bunch of active-safety aids. Then the mischief-makers arise. In 2023, GM paused sales of the Blazer EV altogether after serious software malfunctions, as reported by CNN, with owners experiencing blacked-out screens, charging troubles, and drivability glitches. Consumer Reports cut its recommendation for that model after it received a reliability score of just 33 out of 100 because of additional transmission, brake, build quality, body hardware, and paint issues.

For the Blazer EV, an analysis from June 2025 was even worse, with this SUV earning 1 out of 5 in reliability, the lowest band on the scale. Besides, there are two recall campaigns in the Blazer EV's very first model year, a red flag for a vehicle that's barely out of the wrapper. By mid-2025, an NHTSA report showed other recalls related to software faults affecting the instrument clusters and braking functions, forcing over-the-air fixes and dealer visits. If you still have one, data from iSeeCars paint a 49.7% depreciation in 60 months. Which is a cruel twist, since the 2023 Colorado savors a 66.5% retention in five years and the 2023 Silverado HD 67.8%. For the Blazer EV, CarEdge claims it will depreciate 60% after half a decade  given that the mileage is around 67,500.

GMC Yukon

GMC Yukon - Artistic Operations/Shutterstock

Huge, plush, and thirsty, the GMC Yukon stands as the archetypal American family bus. You'd hope that a model starting at $69,200 (or $103,300 for the top-tier Denali Ultimate) would have reliability as a given. Not quite. Consumer Reports has scored both the Yukon and the Yukon XL 28 out of 100, putting them on the wrong side of average for full-size SUVs. In terms of mechanics, the Yukon is old-school  in the best and worst senses. Models can come with a 5.3-liter, 6.2 V8, or the 3.0-liter Duramax diesel (for more torque power), all paired with a 10-speed automatic. And on the inside, the latest generation includes three rows, a big central touchscreen, digital driver display, air suspension, and Super Cruise on higher trims. Edmunds and Car and Driver both praise the space and comfort but note that the tech can be laggy and some interior plastics don't match the price tag.

Reliability concerns have zeroed in on the engine bay. In April 2025, Reuters reported that GM was recalling around 721,000 vehicles, including several model years of the Yukon, over a potential engine failure risk linked to valve train components. Also, an NHTSA bulletin filed in May 2025 lays out the peril of engines losing power or failing outright, a nightmare you don't want to be in when merging onto a freeway. On the resale side, CarEdge indicates that Yukons depreciate 55% in five years  it could be worse  yet it's an ocean apart from the Toyota Sequoia, which only loses 37% over the same period. With figures, a 2023 Yukon at $59,104 will be worth $28,802 in 2027, as calculated by KBB.

Mazda CX-90 Plug-In Hybrid

Mazda CX-90 Plug-In Hybrid - Artistic Operations/Shutterstock

At least on paper, this SUV is exactly what car nerds asked for. A handsome rear-biased three-row with a posh cabin and a plug-in drivetrain. In reality, Consumer Reports' readers have used it as an example of "How Not To Launch A Complex New Model." For CR, the CX-90 is among the least reliable midsize SUVs, with owners reporting troubles with steering/suspension, climate, transmission, in-car electronics, electrical accessories, and the EV battery. Everything but the tires and seats. Autoevolution's analysis of CR data went further and stated that the CX-90 and its CX-70 twin carry a predicted reliability score of 1 out of 5  the rock bottom of the scale. Also, CR mentioned that the 2024 CX-90 has already accumulated several recalls across its various powertrains  a lot of trips back to the dealer.

Advertisement Advertisement

A 2024 NHTSA filing flagged software that might lead to unexpected loss of motive power, forcing Mazda to update control modules to stop the SUV from giving up mid-journey. In November 2024, Mazda issued another call-back for further software glitches affecting driver-assistance systems. Automotive Fleets added more details, like problems with automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control that could cause the CX-90 to brake unexpectedly to match vehicles in adjacent lanes. By late 2025, no fewer than 11 recall actions had touched the CX-90. Resale is still a big question mark. Early forecasts from CarEdge suggest that first-generation buyers are likely to eat heavier losses because of a 53% depreciation after five years. Meaning, a 2024 CX-90 new model valued at around $55,700 would sell for $23,904. Definitely, among cars you should only buy used to save money.

Unlock your financial potential. Add Money Digest to your preferred sources for smart money insights!

Read the original article on Money Digest.
Poker enthusiasts from near and far will be heading to the GrandWest Casino by Sun International on the outskirts of Cape Town and many local poker enthusiasts from the close-knit South African live poker community are expected to showcase their talents throughout the next three days. Yesterday's opening flight of the Joe-Boy Rahme MonsterStaK Main Event drew a total of 126 entries for the ZAR 15,000 (USD 850) buy-in and that has put the end on track to surpass the ZAR 4 million guarantee.

The crown jewel of the schedule has been named after local veteran Joe Rahme who unexpectedly passed away three weeks, having been attenting the SunBet Poker Tour stops for many years as one of the pioneers for the local poker scene. During the first break of today's second flight, a tribute video will be shown once again

With the opening flight coming to a conclusion last night and nearly half of the field gone, Nico Wiechers set the bar pretty high with more than five starting stacks as he bagged up 524,500. Other big stacks belong to Yoni Lipshitz (455,500) and Kiran Moodley (413,500) and it remains to be seen whether or not anyone will be able to break into the overall top three podium spots on the leaderboard.

Day 1b is set to kick off at 11 a.m. local time and a total of nine levels of 60 minutes each are scheduled for today, with a 90-minute dinner break after the sixth level. All players receive 100,000 in chips and that represents more than 330 big blinds in the opening level at blinds of 200-300/300. The turbo heat 1c will follow at 7 p.m. local time with a level duration of 40 minutes each and conclude beyond 1 a.m. local time.

For both remaining flights, the principle remains the same. The registration and re-entry period is open all day long and will be extended for another four levels into Day 2 on Saturday, November 29, 2025. Players can also play multiple flights and will carry over the larger stack into the penultimate tournament day.

It isn't the only event to run today as the ZAR 50,000 High Roller is set to crown a champion. Out of a 72-entry strong field, nine players remain and will take their seats on the live stream table at 11 a.m. local time, too. You can follow the cards-up coverage and commentary on the SunBet Poker Tour YouTube channel on a security delay of 30 minutes.

The PokerNews live updates for today will focus on Day 1b of the Main Event with the final chip counts for Day 1c and the Day 2 seat draw to be published the following morning.
Reporter

Carl Dawson covers the City of Aiken and the Savannah River Site. An Aiken County resident since 1990, his work has appeared in the Charleston News & Courier, the Tampa Tribune, the Atlanta Constitution and the Augusta Chronicle. He holds a B.A. in English from the University of South Carolina.
Tony Kukulich is an editor/reporter working in the Beaufort County bureau. Turning to journalism as a second career, he started as a photojournalist in the San Francisco Bay Area. After moving to Bluffton in 2021, he wrote for several area publications before joining The Post and Courier the following year.
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.
Reporter

Lamaur Stancil writes about government, business, schools and entertainment in York County. He can be reached at 803-687-3436 or at X at @LamaurStancil
PR-Inside.com: 2025-11-28 00:00:36

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 487 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

NEW YORK, NY AND NEW ORLEANS, LA / ACCESS Newswire / November 27, 2025 /Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF") and KSF partner, former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., remind investors that they have untilDecember 8, 2025to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against WPP plc (NYSE:WPP), if they purchased or otherwise acquired the Company's shares between February 27, 2025 and July 8, 2025, inclusive (the "Class Period"). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York.What You May DoIf you purchased shares of WPP and would like to discuss your legal rights and how this case might affect you and your right to recover for your economic loss, you may, without obligation or cost to you, contact KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn toll-free at 1-877-515-1850 or via email ( lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com) , or visit https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nyse-wpp/ to learn more. If you wish to serve as a lead plaintiff in this class action, you must petition the Court byDecember 8, 2025 .About the LawsuitWPP and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.On July 9, 2025, the Company published a trading update for the first half of 2025, disclosing that it had allegedly "seen a deterioration in performance as Q2 has progressed" due to both "continued macro uncertainty weighing on client spend and weaker net new business than originally anticipated," as well as "some distraction to the business" as a result of the continued restructuring of WPP Media a.k.a. GroupM. The Company further disclosed that its CEO "will retire from the Board and as CEO on 31 December 2025."On this news, the price of WPP's shares fell from a closing price of $35.82 per share on July 8, 2025 to $29.34 per share on July 9, 2025, a decline of about 18.1% in the span of just a single day.The case is Marty v. WPP plc, 25-cv-08365.About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCKSF, whose partners include former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is one of the nation's premier boutique securities litigation law firms. This past year, KSF was ranked by SCAS among the top 10 firms nationally based upon total settlement value. KSF serves a variety of clients, including public and private institutional investors, and retail investors - in seeking recoveries for investment losses emanating from corporate fraud or malfeasance by publicly traded companies. KSF has offices in New York, Delaware, California, Louisiana, Chicago, and a representative office in Luxembourg.TOP 10 Plaintiff Law Firms - According to ISS Securities Class Action ServicesTo learn more about KSF, you may visit www.ksfcounsel.com Contact:Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCLewis Kahn, Managing Partnerlewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com1-877-515-18501100 Poydras St., Suite 960New Orleans, LA 70163CONNECT WITH US: Facebook || Instagram || YouTube || TikTok || LinkedInSOURCE: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC
PR-Inside.com: 2025-11-28 17:00:35

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 304 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / November 28, 2025 / Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC is investigating potential claims on behalf of purchasers of Alibaba Group Holding Limited ("Alibaba" or "the Company") (NYSE:BABA). Investors who purchased Alibaba securities are encouraged to obtain additional information and assist the investigation by visiting the firm's site: bgandg.com/BABA Investigation DetailsOn November 14, 2025, during market hours, Reuters published an article entitled "White House says Alibaba is helping Chinese military target US, FT reports." The article stated that Alibaba had been accused of "providing technological support for Chinese military operations against targets in the United States, the Financial Times said on Friday, citing a White House memo." Following this news, Alibaba American Depositary Shares ("ADSs") dropped during intraday trading on November 14, 2025.What's Next?If you are aware of any facts relating to this investigation or purchased Alibaba securities, you can assist this investigation by visiting the firm's site: bgandg.com/BABA . You can also contact Peretz Bronstein or his client relations manager, Nathan Miller, of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC: 332-239-2660There is No Cost to YouWe represent investors in class actions on a contingency fee basis. That means we will ask the court to reimburse us for out-of-pocket expenses and attorneys' fees, usually a percentage of the total recovery, only if we are successful.Why Bronstein, Gewirtz & GrossmanBronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC is a nationally recognized firm that represents investors in securities fraud class actions and shareholder derivative suits. Our firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors nationwide.Follow us for updates on LinkedIn, X, Facebook, or Instagram.Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.ContactBronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLCPeretz Bronstein or Nathan Miller 332-239-2660 | info@ bgandg.com SOURCE: Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC
PR-Inside.com: 2025-11-28 05:01:57

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 749 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA / ACCESS Newswire / November 27, 2025 / Sekur Private Data (OTCQB:SWISF)(CSE:SKUR)(FRA:GDT0) (" Sekur " or the " Company "), a leading Swiss-hosted cybersecurity and private communications platform, would like to clarify that the Internet Stock Review Analyst Report that was published in ournews release dated Nov 20 2025, is a paid independent research report.The Company paid the sum of US$2,500 for a 15-page Analyst Independent Report as part of the Company's ongoing corporate communications. The Company has asked the report issuer to clearly define on the top of the report, the disclosure that the report of a paid independent report paid for by the Company.The Company signed a six-month contract with Revelers.IO , D.B.A. Institutional Analyst, publisher of the Internet Stock Review, for the amount of US$2,500/month for the purpose of coverage of the Company's activities and analysis report on the Company. The report has been updated to reflect the fact that the report is a paid independent report, paid for by the Company.The report has been prepared by Revelers.IO Media Group Inc., D.B.A. InternetStockReview.com , 5165 Magellan Way East, Delray Beach FL 33484, USA. Email: roland@ institutionalanalyst.com tel: 1-310-488-0599, attn: Roland Perry. Neither Revelers.IO Media Group Inc. D.B.A. InternetStockReview.com , nor Roland Perry have any relationship to the company, other than being an independent contractor.This report may be disseminated through https://internetstockreview.com/and/or on the Company's website atwww.sekurprivatedata.comand/or through a news release approved by the Company. Other third-party media may pick up the report on the Internet without prior knowledge of the Company.About Sekur Private Data Sekur Private Data is a Swiss-hosted cybersecurity and privacy communications provider. offering a secure suite of tools to protect governments, businesses and individuals from unauthorized access and cyber threats. With solutions such as SekurMail, SekurMessenger, and SekurVPN, Sekur provides an accessible and reliable means of digital communication and data storage, grounded in Swiss privacy standards. Sekur sells its solutions through its websitewww.sekur.com , approved distributors and telecommunications companies globally. Sekur serves governments, businesses and consumers worldwide. Its main sales operations are located in Miami, USA.CONTACT Alain Ghiai President and Chief Executive Officer SEKUR PRIVATE DATA LTD. Email:investors@ sekur.comwww.sekurprivatedata.comTel: +1.305.347.5114Follow Sekur on:XLinkedInYouTubeFor sales brochure on our enterprise security solutions, or partnership opportunities, contact: partners@ sekur.com.To find out more about Sekur's privacy communications solutions visit: https://sekur.comFor more company information, please visit: https://sekurprivatedata.com Forward-Looking InformationThis news release contains certain forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws ("forward-looking statements"). All statements other than statements of present or historical fact are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "anticipate", "achieve", "could", "believe", "plan", "intend", "objective", "continuous", "ongoing", "estimate", "outlook", "expect", "project" and similar words, including negatives thereof, suggesting future outcomes or that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. These statements are only predictions. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations; they do not guarantee future performance. Sekur 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 Sekur's control. Such factors include, among other things: risks and uncertainties relating to the future of the Company's business; the success of marketing and sales efforts of the Company; the projections prepared in house and projections delivered by channel partners; the Company's ability to complete the necessary software updates; increases in sales as a result of investments software development technology; consumer interest in the Products; future sales plans and strategies; reliance on large channel partners and expectations of renewals to ongoing agreements with these partners; anticipated events and trends; the economy and other future conditions; and other risks and uncertainties, including those described in Sekur's prospectus dated May 8, 2019, filed with the Canadian Securities Administrators and available on www.sedarplus.ca . 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, Sekur undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information.SOURCE: Sekur Private Data Ltd.
PR-Inside.com: 2025-11-28 00:01:12

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 536 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

NEW ORLEANS, LA AND NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / November 27, 2025 /Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF") and KSF partner, former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., remind investors with substantial losses that they have untilJanuary 12, 2026to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against Stride, Inc. ("Stride" or the "Company") (NYSE:LRN), if they purchased or otherwise acquired the Company's securities between October 22, 2024 and October 28, 2025, inclusive (the "Class Period"). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.What You May DoIf you purchased securities of Stride and would like to discuss your legal rights and how this case might affect you and your right to recover for your economic loss, you may, without obligation or cost to you, contact KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn toll-free at 1-877-515-1850 or via email ( lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com) , or visit https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nyse-lrn/ to learn more. If you wish to serve as a lead plaintiff in this class action, you must petition the Court byJanuary 12, 2026 .About the LawsuitStride and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.On September 14, 2025, it was reported that the Gallup-McKinley County Schools Board of Education had filed a complaint against the Company, alleging fraud, deceptive trade practices, systemic violations of law, and intentional and tortious misconduct, including inflating enrollment numbers by retaining "ghost students" on rolls to secure state funding per student and ignoring compliance requirements, including background checks and licensure laws for its employees. On this news, the price of Stride's shares fell $18.60 per share, or 11.7%, to close at $139.76 per share on September 15, 2025.Then, on October 28, 2025, the Company disclosed that "poor customer experience" had resulted in "higher withdrawal rates," "lower conversion rates," and had driven students away, and that the Company estimated the impact caused approximately 10,000-15,000 fewer enrollments and that, because of this, its outlook is "muted" compared to prior years. On this news, the price of Stride's shares fell $83.48 per share, or more than 54%, to close at $70.05 per share on October 29, 2025.The case is MacMahon v. Stride, Inc., et al., Case No. 25-cv-02019.About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCKSF, whose partners include former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is one of the nation's premier boutique securities litigation law firms. This past year, KSF was ranked by SCAS among the top 10 firms nationally based upon total settlement value. KSF serves a variety of clients, including public and private institutional investors, and retail investors - in seeking recoveries for investment losses emanating from corporate fraud or malfeasance by publicly traded companies. KSF has offices in New York, Delaware, California, Louisiana, Chicago, and a representative office in Luxembourg.TOP 10 Plaintiff Law Firms - According to ISS Securities Class Action ServicesTo learn more about KSF, you may visit www.ksfcounsel.com Contact:Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCLewis Kahn, Managing Partnerlewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com1-877-515-18501100 Poydras St., Suite 960New Orleans, LA 70163CONNECT WITH US: Facebook || Instagram || YouTube || TikTok || LinkedInSOURCE: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC
PR-Inside.com: 2025-11-28 00:00:30

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 478 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

NEW ORLEANS, LA AND NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / November 27, 2025 /Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF") and KSF partner, former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., remind investors that they have untilDecember 2, 2025to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against Molina Healthcare, Inc. ("Molina" or the "Company") (NYSE:MOH), if they purchased or otherwise acquired the Company's securities between February 5, 2025 and July 23, 2025, inclusive (the "Class Period"). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Central District of California.What You May DoIf you purchased securities of Molina and would like to discuss your legal rights and how this case might affect you and your right to recover for your economic loss, you may, without obligation or cost to you, contact KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn toll-free at 1-877-515-1850 or via email ( lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com) , or visit https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nyse-moh/ to learn more. If you wish to serve as a lead plaintiff in this class action, you must petition the Court byDecember 2, 2025 .About the LawsuitMolina and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.On July 23, 2025, the Company reported its financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2025 and cut its full-year 2025 earnings guidance, disclosing that "GAAP net income was $4.75 per diluted share for the second quarter of 2025, a decrease of 8% year over year" and it "now expects its full year 2025 adjusted earnings to be no less than $19.00 per diluted share," due to a "challenging medical cost trend environment," including "utilization of behavioral health, pharmacy, and inpatient and outpatient services." On this news, the price of Molina's shares fell $32.03, or 16.84%, to close at $158.22 per share on July 24, 2025, on unusually heavy trading volume.The case is Hindlemann v. Molina Healthcare, Inc., et al., No. 25-cv-09461.About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCKSF, whose partners include former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is one of the nation's premier boutique securities litigation law firms. This past year, KSF was ranked by SCAS among the top 10 firms nationally based upon total settlement value. KSF serves a variety of clients, including public and private institutional investors, and retail investors - in seeking recoveries for investment losses emanating from corporate fraud or malfeasance by publicly traded companies. KSF has offices in New York, Delaware, California, Louisiana, Chicago, and a representative office in Luxembourg.TOP 10 Plaintiff Law Firms - According to ISS Securities Class Action ServicesTo learn more about KSF, you may visit www.ksfcounsel.com Contact:Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCLewis Kahn, Managing Partnerlewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com1-877-515-18501100 Poydras St., Suite 960New Orleans, LA 70163CONNECT WITH US: Facebook || Instagram || YouTube || TikTok || LinkedInSOURCE: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC
PR-Inside.com: 2025-11-28 00:00:53

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 426 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

NEW ORLEANS, LA AND NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / November 27, 2025 /Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF") and KSF partner, former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., remind investors with substantial losses that they have untilJanuary 2, 2026to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against CarMax, Inc. (NYSE:KMX), if they purchased or otherwise acquired the Company's securities between June 20, 2025 and September 24, 2025, inclusive (the "Class Period"). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the District of Maryland.What You May DoIf you purchased securities of CarMax and would like to discuss your legal rights and how this case might affect you and your right to recover for your economic loss, you may, without obligation or cost to you, contact KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn toll-free at 1-877-515-1850 or via email ( lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com) , or visit https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nyse-kmx/ to learn more. If you wish to serve as a lead plaintiff in this class action, you must petition the Court byJanuary 2, 2026 .About the LawsuitCarMax and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.On September 25, 2025, the Company announced its Second Quarter Fiscal Year 2026 financial results, disclosing among other things, that retail unit sales had decreased 5.4%, comparable store unit sales had decreased 6.3%, wholesale units had decreased 2.2%, and that net earnings per diluted share of $0.64 compared to $0.85 a year ago.On this news, the price of CarMax's shares fell $11.5 per share, or 20.07%, to close at $45.60 per share on September 25, 2025.The case is Cap v. CarMax, Inc., No. 25-cv-03602.About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCKSF, whose partners include former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is one of the nation's premier boutique securities litigation law firms. This past year, KSF was ranked by SCAS among the top 10 firms nationally based upon total settlement value. KSF serves a variety of clients, including public and private institutional investors, and retail investors - in seeking recoveries for investment losses emanating from corporate fraud or malfeasance by publicly traded companies. KSF has offices in New York, Delaware, California, Louisiana, Chicago, and a representative office in Luxembourg.TOP 10 Plaintiff Law Firms - According to ISS Securities Class Action ServicesTo learn more about KSF, you may visit www.ksfcounsel.com Contact:Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCLewis Kahn, Managing Partnerlewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com1-877-515-18501100 Poydras St., Suite 960New Orleans, LA 70163CONNECT WITH US: Facebook || Instagram || YouTube || TikTok || LinkedInSOURCE: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC
PR-Inside.com: 2025-11-28 20:33:15

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 650 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / November 28, 2025 / Leading securities law firmBleichmar Fonti & Auld LLPannounces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against James Hardie Industries plc (NYSE:JHX) and certain of the Company's senior executives for securities fraud after a significant stock drop resulting from the potential violations of the federal securities laws.If you invested in James Hardie, you are encouraged to obtain additional information by visiting: https://www.bfalaw.com/cases/james-hardie-industries-class-action-lawsuit Investors have until December 23, 2025, to ask the Court to be appointed to lead the case. The complaint asserts claims under Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 on behalf of investors in James Hardie common stock (formerly American Depositary Shares). The class action is pending in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois and is captioned Laborers' District Council and Contractors' Pension Fund of Ohio v. James Hardie Industries plc, et al., No. 1:25-cv-13018.Why Was James Hardie Sued for Securities Fraud?James Hardie is a producer and marketer of high-performance fiber cement building solutions. The largest application for the Company's fiber cement building products in the United Stated and Canada is in external siding for the residential building industry.During the relevant period, James Hardie told investors that the results of its North American fiber cement segment demonstrated its "inherent strength" and "the underlying momentum in our strategy." The Company also stated on May 20, 2025, that it was seeing "normal stock levels" among its customers and that it was "seeing performance in the month to date as we would expect." As alleged, in truth, the Company's North American sales during the relevant period were the result of inventory loading by channel partners, with the hallmarks of fraudulent channel stuffing, not sustainable customer demand as represented.The Stock Declines as the Truth Is RevealedOn August 19, 2025, James Hardie revealed that its North American fiber cement sales declined 12% during the quarter, driven by destocking first discovered "in April through May" as customers "made efforts to return to more normal inventory levels[.]" The Company also revealed that significant inventory destocking was expected to continue to impact sales for the next several quarters. On this news, the price of James Hardie stock fell $9.79 per share, or more than 34%, from $28.43 per share on August 19, 2025, to $18.64 per share on August 20, 2025.On November 17, 2025, James Hardie announced that Rachel Wilson had decided to step down from her role as CFO.Click here for more information: https://www.bfalaw.com/cases/james-hardie-industries-class-action-lawsuit What Can You Do?If you invested in James Hardie you may have legal options and are encouraged to submit your information to the firm.All representation is on a contingency fee basis, there is no cost to you. Shareholders are not responsible for any court costs or expenses of litigation. The firm will seek court approval for any potential fees and expenses.Submit your information by visiting:Or contact:Ross Shikowitz ross@ bfalaw.com 212.789.3619Why Bleichmar Fonti & Auld LLP?BFA is a leading international law firm representing plaintiffs in securities class actions and shareholder litigation. It has been named a top plaintiff law firm by Chambers USA, The Legal 500, and ISS SCAS, and its attorneys have been named "Elite Trial Lawyers" by the National Law Journal, among the top "500 Leading Plaintiff Financial Lawyers" by Lawdragon, "Titans of the Plaintiffs' Bar" by Law360 and "SuperLawyers" by Thomson Reuters. Among its recent notable successes, BFA recovered over $900 million in value from Tesla, Inc.'s Board of Directors, as well as $420 million from Teva Pharmaceutical Ind. Ltd.For more information about BFA and its attorneys, please visit https://www.bfalaw.com Attorney advertising. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.SOURCE: Bleichmar Fonti & Auld LLP
PR-Inside.com: 2025-11-28 00:01:18

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 408 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / November 27, 2025 / Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Freeport-McMoran Inc. ("Freeport" or the "Company") (NYSE:FCX). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at newaction@ pomlaw.com or 646-581-9980, (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 7980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased.The class action concerns whether Freeport and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.You have until January 12, 2026 to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class if you purchased or otherwise acquired Freeport securities during the Class Period. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com [Click here for information about joining the class action]On September 9, 2025, Freeport issued a press release announcing the suspension of mining activities at its Grasberg Block Cave operation in Indonesia, after "a large flow of wet material from a production drawpoint . . . blocked access to certain areas within the mine," trapping seven workers. The press release further stated that mining operations in the area "have been temporarily suspended to prioritize the safe evacuation of the . . . workers." On this news, Freeport's stock price fell $2.80 per share, or 5.99%, to close at $43.87 per share on September 9, 2025.Then, on September 24, 2025, Freeport provided an update on the incident, reporting that two of the seven workers were "fatally injured" and that the remaining five workers "remain missing." The press release further stated that mining operations in the area remained suspended.On this news, Freeport's stock price fell $7.69 per share, or 16.95%, to close at $37.67 per share on September 24, 2025.Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.SOURCE: Pomerantz LLP
PR-Inside.com: 2025-11-28 00:01:16

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 494 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / November 27, 2025 / Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Perrigo Company plc ("Perrigo" or the "Company") (NYSE:PRGO). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at newaction@ pomlaw.com or 646-581-9980, (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 7980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased.The class action concerns whether Perrigo and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.You have until January 16, 2026 to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class if you purchased or otherwise acquired Perrigo securities during the Class Period. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com [Click here for information about joining the class action]On February 27, 2024, Perrigo reported fiscal year 2023 earnings, revealing significant acquisition and integration-related charges, including a purported one-time cash cost of an additional $35 million to $45 million for remediations to address production and facility issues in its infant formula business. The Company also disclosed a 50% decline in earnings per share compared to the prior year due to infant formula remediation actions.On this news, Perrigo's stock price fell $4.87 per share, or 15.14%, to close at $27.30 per share on February 27, 2024.Then, on May 7, 2024, Perrigo released earnings for the first quarter ended March 30, 2024, revealing the significant negative impact of Perrigo's costly actions to augment and strengthen its infant formula business.On this news, Perrigo's stock price fell $3.28 per share, or 9.8%, to close at $30.15 on May 7, 2024.Then, on August 6, 2025, Perrigo issued a press release announcing earnings for the second quarter ended June 28, 2025, revealing the Company's adjusted gross profit decreased $30 million, or 6.9%, due in part to "production variability in infant formula, leading to an increase in product scrap in the quarter." Finally, on November 5, 2025, Perrigo issued a press release, announcing the Company "is initiating a strategic review of its infant formula business" including a "a full range of alternatives." The press release revealed Perrigo is "reassessing the Company's previously announced investment in this business of $240 million." On this news, Perrigo's stock price fell $5.09 per share, or 25.2%, to close at $15.10 per share on November 5, 2025.Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.SOURCE: Pomerantz LLP
PR-Inside.com: 2025-11-28 00:01:07

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 550 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / November 27, 2025 / Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Primo Brands Corporation ("Primo Brands" or the "Company") (NYSE:PRMB). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at newaction@ pomlaw.com or 646-581-9980, (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 7980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased.The class action concerns whether Primo Brands and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.You have until January 12, 2026 to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class if you purchased or otherwise acquired Primo Brands securities during the Class Period. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained atwww.pomerantzlaw.com [Click here for information about joining the class action]On June 17, 2024, Primo Water Corporation ("Primo Water") announced entry into a merger agreement (the "Merger") with an affiliate of BlueTriton Brands, Inc. ("BlueTriton"). The two companies touted the synergies of the Merger, stating that the combined company was expected to have "significant financial and operating leverage" and "enhanced distribution capabilities" which would position it "for sustained long-term growth." On November 8, 2024, the companies announced the completion of the Merger and the formation of the combined entity, Primo Brands.On August 7, 2025, Primo Brands announced its financial results for the second quarter of 2025. On an accompanying earnings call, Chief Executive Officer Robbert Rietbroek acknowledged that "[t]he speed by which we closed facilities and reduced headcount led to disruptions in product supply, delivery, and service." Following these disclosures, Primo Brands' stock price fell $2.41 per share, or 9.13%, to close at $24.00 per share on August 7, 2025.Then, on November 6, 2025, Primo Brands announced Rietbroek's departure as CEO and disclosed that the Company was drastically reducing its full year 2025 net sales and adjusted EBITDA guidance. During a corresponding earnings call, Primo Brands' new CEO Eric Foss admitted that the Company "probably moved too far too fast on some of the various integration work streams" and that "[t]here's no doubt that speed impacted our ability to get through a lot of the warehouse closures and route realignment without disruption." Foss further revealed that Primo Brands had experienced "customer service issues" as well as "integration issues related to the technology move over." On this news, Primo Brands' stock price fell $8.20 per share, or 36.19%, over the following two trading sessions, closing at $14.46 per share on November 7, 2025.Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.SOURCE: Pomerantz LLP
PR-Inside.com: 2025-11-28 00:00:57

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 491 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / November 27, 2025 / Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Avantor, Inc. ("Avantor" or the "Company") (NYSE:AVTR). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at newaction@ pomlaw.com or 646-581-9980, (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 7980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased.The class action concerns whether Avantor and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.You have until December 29, 2025 to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class if you purchased or otherwise acquired Avantor securities during the Class Period. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com [Click here for information about joining the class action]On April 25, 2025, Avantor reported disappointing first quarter 2025 financial results, cut its guidance for 2025, and announced that Michael Stubblefield would be stepping down from his roles as President and Chief Executive Officer. Avantor's management attributed its weak performance and outlook to "the impact of increased competitive intensity." On this news, Avantor's stock price fell $2.57 per share, or 16.5%, to close at $12.93 per share on April 25, 2025.Then, on August 1, 2025, Avantor reported disappointing second quarter 2025 financial results, including a year-over-year decrease in net sales, and further reduced the Company's 2025 guidance-now projecting organic revenue growth of -2% to 0%. Avantor's management again attributed the Company's lackluster results and outlook to "increased competitive intensity" and further admitted that Avantor did not expect the competitive environment to materially improve in the remainder of 2025.On this news, Avantor's stock price fell $2.08 per share, or 15.48%, to close at $11.36 per share on August 1, 2025.Then, on October 29, 2025, Avantor reported weak third quarter 2025 financial results, including -5% organic revenue growth and a net loss of $712 million, which management primarily attributed to a non-cash goodwill impairment charge of $785 million. Avantor's management said that the impairment charge was necessary due in part to "competitive pressures" that had "meaningfully impacted" Avantor's margins and further disclosed that the Company had lost several large accounts.On this news, Avantor's stock price fell $3.50 per share, or 23.21%, to close at $11.58 per share on October 29, 2025.Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.SOURCE: Pomerantz LLP
PR-Inside.com: 2025-11-28 00:00:42

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 592 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / November 27, 2025 / Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Molina Healthcare, Inc. ("Molina" or the "Company") (NYSE:MOH). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at newaction@ pomlaw.com or 646-581-9980, (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 7980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased.The class action concerns whether Molina and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.You have until December 2, 2025, to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class if you purchased or otherwise acquired Molina securities during the Class Period. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com [Click here for information about joining the class action]On July 7, 2025, Molina issued a press release announcing financial results for the second quarter of 2025 and slashing full year 2025 adjusted earnings per share guidance. The press release reported second quarter 2025 adjusted earnings of approximately $5.50 per share, which was "below . . . prior expectations" due to "medical cost pressures in all three lines of business." The Company also announced that it "expects these medical cost pressures to continue into the second half of the year" and cut guidance for expected adjusted earnings per share 10.2% at the midpoint, from "at least $24.50 per share" to a "range of $21.50 to $22.50 per share." The press release revealed Molina was experiencing a "short-term earnings pressure" from a "dislocation between premium rates and a medical cost trend which has recently accelerated." On this news, Molina's stock price fell $6.97 per share, or 2.9%, to close at $232.61 per share on July 7, 2025.Then, on July 23, 2025, Molina issued a press release reporting its financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2025 and further slashing the Company's full-year 2025 earnings guidance. The press release revealed, in part, that the Company's "GAAP net income was $4.75 per diluted share for the second quarter of 2025, a decrease of 8% year over year;" and it "now expects its full year 2025 adjusted earnings to be no less than $19.00 per diluted share." This represented another 13.6% cut to guidance of earnings per share at the midpoint, from the cut to guidance announced less than two weeks earlier. Molina also cut its guidance for its full year 2025 GAAP net income 27% to $912 million. Molina attributed its results a full year outlook to a "challenging medical cost trend environment," including mere "utilization of behavioral health, pharmacy, and inpatient and outpatient services." The Company claimed that its guidance cut also reflected "new information gained in the quarterly closing process." On this news, Molina's stock price fell $32.03 per share, or 16.84%, to close at $158.22 per share on July 24, 2025.Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.SOURCE: Pomerantz LLP
PR-Inside.com: 2025-11-28 00:00:44

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 357 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / November 27, 2025 / Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against WPP Plc ("WPP" or the "Company") (NYSE:WPP). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at newaction@ pomlaw.com or 646-581-9980, (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 7980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased.The class action concerns whether WPP and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.You have until December 8, 2025, to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class if you purchased or otherwise acquired WPP securities during the Class Period. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com [Click here for information about joining the class action]On July 9, 2025, WPP published a trading update for the first half of 2025, advising investors that the Company had "seen a deterioration in performance as Q2 has progressed." The Company attributed its misfortune to both "continued macro uncertainty weighing on client spend and weaker net new business than originally anticipated," at least in part due to "some distraction to the business" as a result of the continued restructuring of WPP Media.On this news, WPP's American Depositary Receipt ("ADR") price fell $6.48 per ADR, or 18.09%, to close at $29.34 per ADR on July 9, 2025.Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.SOURCE: Pomerantz LLP
PR-Inside.com: 2025-11-28 23:00:10

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 920 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

TORONTO, ON / ACCESS Newswire / November 28, 2025 / Gabriel Resources Ltd. (TSXV:GBU - "Gabriel" or the "Company") announces the publication of its third quarter financial results for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2025. Selected financial and operational information is outlined below and should be read in conjunction with the Company's unaudited consolidated financial statements and related management's discussion and analysis (the "MD&A") for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2025, which are available on the Company's website at www.gabrielresources.com and have been filed under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca . All amounts in this press release are stated in Canadian dollars unless otherwise specified.SummaryHighlights for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2025 and events subsequent to September 30, 2025 are set out below.ICSID Annulment ProceedingsOn March 8, 2024, the presiding tribunal in Gabriel's ICSID arbitration claim against Romania issued its final decision, rejecting Gabriel's claims on the merits by a 2-1 majority (the "Arbitral Decision") and awarding approximately US$10 million in costs to Romania (the "Costs Order").On July 8, 2024, Gabriel announced that it has filed an application under Article 52 of the ICSID Convention requesting the annulment of the Arbitral Decision (the "Annulment").Pursuant to Procedural Order No. 1 of February 11, 2025, the ad hoc committee appointed to adjudicate the Annulment (the "Ad-Hoc Committee") established the following procedural calendar:Gabriel's Memorial on Annulment: April 3, 2025.Romania's Counter-Memorial on Annulment: July 7, 2025.Gabriel's Reply on Annulment: September 1, 2025.Romania's Rejoinder on Annulment: November 3, 2025.Hearing on the Annulment: January 22-23, 2026 (with January 24, 2026 reserved).The parties have completed their written submissions in accordance with the procedural timetable referred to above. Gabriel filed its Reply on Annulment on September 1, 2025, and Romania filed its Rejoinder on November 3, 2025.On 15 July 2025, the European Commission (the "Commission") filed an application seeking leave to intervene in the Annulment proceedings. Pursuant to Procedural Order No. 2 of August 25, 2025, the Ad-Hoc Committee denied the Commission's application. The Commission's subsequent request for reconsideration was also denied by the Ad-Hoc Committee on October 1, 2025.On April 4, 2024, the Government of Romania demanded payment of the ICSID Costs Order and subsequently obtained a precautionary seizure over the shares held by Gabriel Resources (Jersey) Limited ("Gabriel Jersey") in Rosia Montana Gold Corporation S.A. ("RMGC"), pending settlement of the Costs Order (the "Precautionary Seizure"). Gabriel Jersey and RMGC have challenged the Precautionary Seizure before the Romanian courts. On 11 July 2024, the Bucharest Court of Appeal rejected the annulment request; the High Court of Cassation and Justice (Romania's Supreme Court) subsequently upheld that decision on final appeal, leaving the precautionary seizure in force. Gabriel Jersey and RMGC continue to vigorously contest the Precautionary Seizure and are pursuing all available legal avenues in Romania.Financial PerformanceThree Months Ended September 30, 2025 ("Q325") compared with the Three Months Ended September 30, 2024 ("Q324)In Q325, the Company incurred a net loss of $3,119, reflecting an increase of $468 compared to the net loss of $2,651 in Q324. The increase was primarily driven by:A provision of litigation of $396An increase in foreign exchange gain of $378An increase in finance costs of $76The increase in net loss was partially offset by:A decrease in corporate, general, and administrative expenses of $394A decrease in interest related to the arbitral costs order of $38Nine Months Ended September 30, 2025 ("YTD 2025") compared with the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 ("YTD 2024")In YTD 2025, the Company incurred a net loss of $7,891, reflecting an increase of $193 compared to the net loss of $7,698 in YTD 2024. The increase was primarily driven by:A decrease in share-based payments recovery of $789A provision of litigation of $396An increase in foreign exchange gain of $344An increase in finance costs of $244An increase in interest related to the arbitral costs order of $57The increase in net loss was partially offset by the decrease in corporate, general, and administrative expenses of $1,610.Corporate, general, and administrative ("CGA") expenses totaled $1,799 in Q325, a decrease of $394 from $2,193 in Q324. The reduction primarily reflects lower expenditures related to ICSID Arbitration, as well as decreased legal, finance, audit, accounting, and compliance-related fees.CGA expenses totaled $5,988 in YTD 2025, representing a decrease of $1,610 compared to $7,598 in YTD 2024. The reduction was primarily attributable to lower expenditures related to the ICSID Arbitration, as well as decreased legal, finance, audit, accounting, and compliancerelated fees and costs associated with Romain's operations.Liquidity and Capital ResourcesAs of September 30, 2025, the Company reported a working capital deficiency of $17,155, a decrease of $285 compared to $17,440 as of December 31, 2024. The decrease was primarily related to increase in cash and the decrease in other current liabilities.The Company held cash and cash equivalents of $1,725 as of September 30, 2025, an increase of $725 from $999 as of December 31, 2024. In YTD 2025, the Company reported the following major cash flow activity:Cash used in operating activities: $5,452Cash used in YTD 2025 primarily reflects the net loss, adjusted for non-cash items, totaling $6,895 which was partially offset by a decrease in prepaid expenses and supplies of $867 and an increase in trade and other payables of $207 and other current liabilities of $396.Cash provided by financing activities: $6,151In YTD 2025, the Company completed the two financings, issuing 96,864,930 units for cash proceeds of $6.3 million.As of September 30, 2025, the Company reported total liabilities of $23,330, representing a decrease of $1,009 from $24,339 as of December 31, 2024. In YTD 2025, the Company issued 43,946,956 Units to settle a $2.2 million (US$1.5 million) shareholder loan raised on November 29, 2024. The increase in the arbitral costs order in YTD 2025 primarily reflects the recognition of $482 in
PR-Inside.com: 2025-11-28 00:00:38

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 465 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

NEW ORLEANS, LA AND NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / November 27, 2025 /Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF") and KSF partner, former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., remind investors that they have untilDecember 23, 2025to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against James Hardie Industries plc ("James Hardie" or the "Company") (NYSE:JHX), if they purchased or otherwise acquired the Company's shares between May 20, 2025, and August 18, 2025, inclusive (the "Class Period"). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.What You May DoIf you purchased shares of James Hardie and would like to discuss your legal rights and how this case might affect you and your right to recover for your economic loss, you may, without obligation or cost to you, contact KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn toll-free at 1-877-515-1850 or via email ( lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com) , or visit https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nyse-jhx/ to learn more. If you wish to serve as a lead plaintiff in this class action, you must petition the Court byDecember 23, 2025 .About the LawsuitJames Hardie and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.On August 19, 2025, despite prior reassurances that its North America Fiber Cement segment remained strong, the Company disclosed that sales in North America Fiber Cement declined by 12% due to customer destocking first discovered "in April through May," that was expected to impact sales for at least the next two quarters.On this news, the price of James Hardie's shares fell by over 34%, or $9.79 per share, from a closing price of $28.43 per share on August 18, 2025 to $18.64 per share on August 20, 2025.The case is Laborers' District Council and Contractors' Pension Fund of Ohio v. James Hardie Industries plc, et al., No. 25-cv-13018.About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCKSF, whose partners include former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is one of the nation's premier boutique securities litigation law firms. This past year, KSF was ranked by SCAS among the top 10 firms nationally based upon total settlement value. KSF serves a variety of clients, including public and private institutional investors, and retail investors - in seeking recoveries for investment losses emanating from corporate fraud or malfeasance by publicly traded companies. KSF has offices in New York, Delaware, California, Louisiana, Chicago, and a representative office in Luxembourg.TOP 10 Plaintiff Law Firms - According to ISS Securities Class Action ServicesTo learn more about KSF, you may visit www.ksfcounsel.com Contact:Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCLewis Kahn, Managing Partnerlewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com1-877-515-18501100 Poydras St., Suite 960New Orleans, LA 70163CONNECT WITH US: Facebook || Instagram || YouTube || TikTok || LinkedInSOURCE: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC
The Federal High Court in Lagos has declared that the federal 36 state governments as well the authorities of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are legally obligated to provide free, compulsory, and universal basic education to all children of primary and junior secondary school age.

Delivering the judgement on 9 October, the judge, D.E. Osiagor, held that under Section 11(2) of the Universal Basic Education (UBE) Act, all three tiers of government have a binding statutory duty to ensure basic education nationwide.

He clarified, however, that states decision to access the federal governments matching grants for basic education remains discretionary.

A certified true copy of the judgement, shared with PREMIUM TIMES on Thursday, shows the case was filed by human rights lawyer Femi Falana, who is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), and activist Hauwa Mustapha on behalf of the civil society coalition, Alliance on Surviving COVID-19 and Beyond (ASCAB).

Court recognises public interest standing

The court affirmed that Mr Falana and Ms Mustapha had the legal standing to bring the suit, noting that the case raised constitutional and statutory issues affecting millions of Nigerian children.

Mr Osiagor cited the Supreme Courts liberal approach to public-interest litigation, stating that citizens may sue where public rights are threatened.

Right to basic education is enforceable

Addressing arguments by some states that free education is a non-justiciable directive principle, the judge ruled that the right to basic education under the UBE Act is enforceable and justiciable.

He said once the parliament enacts a law imposing obligations, those obligations become legally binding, regardless of general constitutional directives.

Contribution to UBEC grants is discretionary

In his judgement, Mr Osiagor explained that states that choose to access the federal governments block grants must contribute 50 per cent counterpart funding. Failure to do so, he said, does not automatically constitute a violation of the law.

I hold that Section 11(2) is directory and conditional, not mandatory, and that failure to access the federal block grant does not per se amount to illegality, the judge stated.

The court clarified that while the federal government is legally required to provide free basic education, states are not legally compelled to access Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) matching grants.

The word assistance connotes aid that a recipient may lawfully decline. States that choose not to access the federal grant are not in direct violation of Section 11(2), provided they independently fulfil their statutory obligation to provide basic education, Mr Osiagor said.

He criticised states that leave education funds unclaimed, noting that such practices undermine efforts to reduce Nigerias estimated 20 million out-of-school children.

Background

The matter, marked FHC/L/CS/142/24, was filed on 19 January 2024.

The applicants sought declarations that the federal government and states violated the UBE Act by failing to provide free basic education and leaving over N68 billion in UBEC matching grants unaccessed.

The respondents include the Attorney-General of the Federation, the Minister of Education, UBEC, and the Attorneys-General in all 36 states, and the Minister of FCT and the Minister of Education.

Lagos State was represented by Solicitor-General Hammed Oyenuga, while Seun Sogbesan represented 27 other states. Respondents opposed the suit, arguing a lack of locus standi and that the right to education is non-justiciable. Several states also submitted affidavits showing compliance with counterpart funding obligations.

Court declarations

The court declared that all levels of government are legally required under Section 2(1) of the UBE Act to provide free, compulsory, and universal basic education for every child of primary and junior secondary school age.

It further ruled that while states must deliver basic education, their decision to access federal matching grants is discretionary, and any state that opts in must contribute 50 per cent counterpart funding.

The court rejected all claims for monetary compensation brought by Lagos and the other respondent states.

Nigerias out-of-school children crisis

The court ruling comes against the backdrop of alarming statistics from the United Nations Childrens Fund (UNICEF), which reports that Nigeria now has 18.3 million out-of-school children, the highest in the world.

Tushar Rane, Chief of UNICEFs Bauchi Field Office, revealed the figure during a two-day Regional Stakeholders Engagement Meeting on Out-of-School Children in Gombe, covering Bauchi, Gombe, and Adamawa states.

Unfortunately, this places Nigeria at the top globally for the highest number of out-of-school children, Mr Rane said.

He added that only 63 per cent of primary school-age children regularly attend school, while merely 84 per cent transition to junior secondary school.

He attributed the trend to insufficient budget allocations, teacher and classroom shortages, poor infrastructure, cultural norms, health and safety concerns, and child labour.

To address the crisis, UNICEF is collaborating with UBEC to develop the National Framework of Action to Reduce the Number of Out-of-School Children and the Retention, Transition, and Completion Model.

The initiative aims to enhance school attendance, retention, and progression, particularly among adolescents at the secondary school level.

You can download the certified true copy of the judgement Here.
At dawn, Festus Olory steps into the forest he has spent half his life protecting. Dressed in a faded green uniform and armed only with a machete, he joins other volunteer rangers  the Ecoguards  on patrol through the muddy paths of the Ekuri rainforest in Cross River State. They listen for the whine of chainsaws, the crack of trees about to fall, or shouts of intruders.

Mr Olory, 45, has done this work for 25 years without pay. I am doing this to take care of my community, he said. I want to protect the forest. Like many of my colleagues who have children, I desire that my children someday see what we have spent our lives protecting.

For the people of Old Ekuri and New Ekuri, two communities in Akamkpa Local Government Area, Cross River State, this 33,600-hectare forest is more than land. It is their history, their livelihood, and their legacy. But it is now under siege.

What began in 1992 as a community-led conservation success story  the Ekuri Initiative  is today a battle of survival. Once hailed by the United Nations and used as a model for sustainable forest management in Nigeria, the Ekuri forest is now threatened by illegal logging and poor governance. With limited government support, volunteer rangers like Olory and his team risk their lives to stop loggers from destroying one of West Africas last remaining rainforests.

For a country blessed with over 20 million hectares of forest cover, according to Global Forest Watch, community forest preservation is not often practised in Nigeria. But the people of Ekuri saw it for what it really is: preserving a whole ecosystem and all the gems in it, because it is the responsible thing to do.

In 1992, elders in Ekuri came together to conserve one of Nigerias last rainforests.

They committed to keeping 33,600 hectares of forest intact, out of sheer conviction that allowing the forest to die from mindless exploitation is tantamount to squandering the communities future. The elders knew that their forest, which shares a boundary with the Cross River National Park, remains one of the last homes of gorillas in Nigeria. And they were determined to protect it.

It is also a habitat for several varieties of Nigerian indigenous species, like timber, afang leaf, kola nut, bitter kola, and bush mango, all of which are being threatened by unsustainable logging, hunting, and farming.

In recognition of Ekuris conservative contribution and exemplary model, it was awarded the United Nations Equator Initiative Award in 2004 and later became a pilot site for the United Nations Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation programme (REDD+) for maintaining its forest.

For several years, things looked promising; Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) like the Nigerian Conservative Foundation (NCF) showed interest in the forest.

They made funds available for the forest, which is surrounded by trees and shrubs arranged intricately. Service of voluntary rangers known as Ecoguards was recruited, illegal loggers were kept at bay, and the forest thrived.

Sparkling streams line up different parts of the forest, causing the air to give off a fresh fragrance. Its beauty can be described as soft and breathtaking.

However, 33 years later, so much has changed. The forest is debilitated. Large trucks have now left deep tracks on the muddy roads that lead to the forest as illegal logging digs its claws into the preserved forest timbers. The duties of the voluntary Ecoguards have expanded without any incentive.

The road leading into the Ekuri forest is now completely unmotorable. Only a bike can navigate through it. Chopped timber trees sit forgotten with no plans for replanting.

It first began in 2016, when the then-government of Cross River announced plans to build a six-lane, 260-kilometre superhighway that would link a port in the capital city of Calabar to neighbouring Benue State in the North-central region of Nigeria.

This $3.5 billion project was to cut through some protected parts of the Ekuri forest and the National Park.

But the locals protested. Their protest, backed by international support from NGOs like the Wildlife Conservation Society, caused a short respite, even though some significant parts of the forest had already been destroyed.

Things took a more downward turn in the years that followed. Several unauthorised logging companies sneaked into the forest to cut down timber.

Ezemac International Company Limited, a Nigerian logging company, has been accused severally by the Ekuri people of logging timbers in large quantities from the forest without the approval of the Ekuri elders.

Ezenwa Igwe, Chief Executive Officer of Ezemac International Nigeria Limited, claimed that the state government and the Forestry Commission were aware of the logging activities because of an existing agreement.

But Ekuri elders have refuted his claim, noting that partnering with the government without their permission is stealing.

Theres only so much we can do by ourselves. This is why we need the support of the government, said Abel Egbe, clan head of New Ekuri, in an interview with this reporter.

The global timber market is valued at $58.96 billion (N84.67 trillion at N1,436 per $), fueling investors thirst to tap into its gains. A key raw material in the construction industry, furniture making, and charcoal production, and is highly sought after across the world.

Mr Egbe says conservation is a culture for any person from the Ekuri community. It is that culture that has over 20 young men giving their time, resources, and lives in the forefront of the communitys fight against illegal loggers without any form of remuneration, except occasional stipends from village elders and NGOs.

The reason we are doing all we can to protect the forest is because we want our children and generations after them to see this forest. We want them to know that conservation is possible. Protecting what God gave us is important, Mr Egbe added, hope laced in his every word.

Hope appears to be the only thing that is keeping the flame of their conservatism alive.

Rangers at the forefront of fight

From the moment they turn into young men, Ekuri boys are recruited into the Ecoguard squad, where they offer voluntary service in addition to their daily job, which is mainly farming of different crops like cocoa, vegetables, and plantain.

When Mr Olory joined the Ecoguards, it was borne out of love for his people, their shared passion for protecting the Ekuri forest, and his desire to give back to a community that had helped raise him.

That decision that began when he was 20 years old has cost him many sleepless nights spent keeping watch inside the most protected parts of the forest that are often targeted by loggers who sneak in from neighbouring communities.

He has had to settle quarrels with his wife, who sometimes does not understand why he risks his life for what does not bring his family money.

But Mr Olory believes that one day his labour will be worth it. I have hope that Ill get rewards for my work someday, as more people take an interest in what we are doing, I believe the story will change for us, he said.

For Friday Ettah, a 41-year-old Ecoguard who has spent more than 25 years with the ranger squad, it is the beauty of the forest that keeps him committed to protecting it, even though the work comes with no financial compensation.

Mr Ettah, who is also a cocoa and plantain farmer, adds that he sees his involvement in the Ecoguard as a form of giving back to a community that has contributed to his farming journey.

Protecting the forest is a form of giving back to the community. Im able to be a cocoa farmer because of the kindness of the village that gave me land. So what I do in the Ecoguard is a form of community service, he said.

These rangers walk long distances inside the forest to ensure that it is safe from poachers.

We trek for long hours inside the forest. Sometimes we stay inside it for days without food. If only we had motorbikes and some form of communication gadgets to ease our interaction, said Joseph Okey, a 28-year-old Ecoguard, as he showed off a small machete in his hand.

The machete is the rangers only form of protection against poachers who enter the forest with better weapons.

The journey has not been easy, he says. Sometimes we contribute money amongst ourselves just so we can have something to eat while on our patrol duty.

Their lack of better arms holds them back in the face of threats from youths of neighbouring communities and in some cases construction companies, who enter the forest heavily armed to steal timber.

Because we are not well armed, we try to be careful when dealing with poachers. We usually approach them with caution.

Globally, efforts to protect biodiversity are met with mixed reception, lack of knowledge, and poor funding. In Nigeria, the reception is extremely poor as not many people understand the concept of conservation.

Stella Egbe, a senior conservation manager at the Nigerian Conservation Foundation, said conservative efforts are often seen in terms of quick returns, so people are mostly not compelled to fund it.

According to the World Bank, Indigenous peoples like the Ekuri community, who belong to the indigenous Nkokoli tribe, represent about six per cent of the global population. They are crucial stakeholders and rights holders in the conservation and sustainable management of biodiversity.

They also manage over 38 million square kilometres of land globally, which includes nearly 40 per cent of all protected areas.

A recent report from Global Witness, an international NGO involved with natural resource exploitation investigations, highlighted a staggering 146 cases of homicides and kidnappings in 2024 alone, an average of three people killed or who disappeared each week.

Many of these incidents targeted individuals defending their lands against extractive industries such as logging and mining, with one-third of the victims being indigenous peoples.

An NGOs resilience backs rangers fight

Martins Egot, executive director of Panacea for Developmental and Infrastructural Challenges for Africa (PADIC-Africa), an NGO that oversees the affairs of the Ekuri forest, said the government has turned a blind eye to the efforts of the community, and this is taking a huge toll on them.

Its a very terrible situation that we find ourselves here. We are struggling between people who are in support of conservation and those who want to make immediate gains for themselves and their families, he said in a telephone interview.

Mr Egot, who is also the head of the Ecoguard squad, says he is forced to use personal funds for the welfare of the rangers. It cost us millions to keep the Ecoguards working. It costs money to get them uniform kits, equipment, and meet their daily needs, especially when they have to spend days inside the forest.

Although he revealed that they sometimes receive funding support from other NGOs, it is still not enough.

I dream that something good can happen for them because they still need more training on surveillance and patrol, he said.

Mr Egots NGO has also actively engaged in capacity-building exercises. This has included providing training to community development groups and community-based enterprises, conducting research to better understand the challenges facing the Ekuri community, and offering community leadership training.

State blessed with resources, divided by weak policies

Over 60 per cent of Cross River is covered by natural forest, making it the only Nigerian state with so much forest cover. It is also one of the 25 biodiversity hotspots in the world. Despite this, weak policies around illegal deforestation are stripping its forest cover.

There are no strict measures around forest preservation in Nigeria, which allows for unauthorised encroachment of conservation sites. Several policies by different governors have been declared over the years, but they are not effective enough to bring defaulters to a halt.

For instance, according to the Cross River State Forestry Law and Regulations Act 2011, any illegally sawn wood across the state is considered an offence and will be seized. Also, all registration of forestry-related activities, such as timber and non-timber permits and farmers access into forest reserves, are to be reported to the Cross River State Forestry Commission for compliance.

Despite these laid down regulations, between 2001 and 2024, the state has lost an average of 83 per cent of its forests to illegal deforestation, data from Global Forest Watch shows.

Data from Cross River States 2025 budget shows that N1.6 billion was allocated to the Forestry Commission in 2025, higher than the N465.9 million allocated in 2024.

However, Ekuri has never received any form of government support, said Louis Agbor, a board member of the Ekuri Initiative, raising questions about budgetary utilisation.

Attempts to contact the Cross River Forestry Commission through its website were not successful during the time of this investigation. Also, attempts to reach the Cross River Ministry of Environment through social media messaging received no response.

READ ALSO: Global partners support health training institutions in Cross River State

An untapped opportunity awaits

In 2024, tourism accounted for 10 per cent of the global economy, contributing $10.9 trillion to global gross domestic product (GDP) in the period.

The sector supports 357 million jobs worldwide, approximately one in every 10 jobs, highlighting its central role in the labour market.

With better financing and acknowledgement of Ekuris conservative efforts, the forest has the potential to become like the Lekki Conservation in Lagos, create jobs, and boost Cross River and Nigerias tourism economy.

And according to the World Bank, tourism can expand markets for existing and new services that directly affect poor and isolated communities.

Although there is no forthcoming help in sight, the men in the Ekuri rangers squad hold on to hope that someday their conservation efforts will be rewarded. They possess passion and grit for a job that tugs almost aggressively at the helm of their pockets and family relationships.

This story was produced as part of Dataphyte Foundations Biodiversity Media Initiative project, with support from Internews Earth Journalism Network. We have permission to publish.
The US government will reevaluate green cards previously issued to individuals from 19 countries of concern, eleven of which are African countries. This was announced several hours before President Donald Trump said he would permanently pause immigration for all Third World countries.

A green card is an official document that allows a person to live and work permanently in the United States. It is formally called a Permanent Resident Card.

The green card announcement comes a day after an Afghan national was named as a suspect in the shooting of two members of the National Guard in Washington.

These countries to be reviewed are predominantly in Africa and Asia.

Nigeria, however, is not among the affected countries.

The Director of US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), Joe Edlow, disclosed this on Thursday on X.

At the direction of @POTUS, I have directed a full-scale, rigorous reexamination of every Green Card for every alien from every country of concern, he said.

The African countries affected are Togo, Sierra Leone, Libya, Sudan, Eritrea, Somalia, Burundi, Chad, Equatorial Guinea, and the Republic of the Congo.

Meanwhile, six of the affected countries are in Asia, two in North America, and one in South America.

They are: Iran, Yemen, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Laos, Turkmenistan, Haiti, Cuba, and Venezuela

The USCIS said nationals of these countries will be screened, and officers will also consider specific negative factors, including whether the government is able to issue secure identity documents.

On Wednesday, a US National Guard member, Sarah Beckstrom, was shot dead, while another was left in a critical condition after a shooting.

The CNN reported that the suspect, identified as an Afghan national, had approached three National Guard members, who were initially unaware of him, and opened fire.

He shot one guard and then another, before standing over the first victim and seemingly attempting another shot, but the third guard returned fire.

This incident has now prompted an intensified clampdown on immigration.

Aside from reevaluating visas, Mr Trump said he would suspend immigration from all Third World countries.

He attributed this to an effort to cut down the strain that current migrant arrivals are placing on the US.
Entertainment / Music

by Entertainment Reporter

CELEBRATED gospel duo Pastor Charles and Olivia Charamba backed by The Fishers of Men are billed to perform at their first ever live concert in Johannesburg, South Africa.The two are expected to perform at a family concert on June 15 at Wits University Great Hall in Johannesburg and June 17 at AFM Kempton Park in a show expected to revive the hearts of their followers in South Africa."We selected safe and secure venues where hardworking folks can take time out from their busy schedules and enjoy spiritually fulfilling music with their families," said the promoters' spokesperson Tafirenyika Makunike of Nepachem.He said the Charambas had become known as "The First Family" of gospel music, and were arguably the best-selling gospel artistes to emerge from Zimbabwe and their music appealed to a wide audience with several sing-along tunes.Pastor Charamba confirmed the tour and said they were looking forward to their first ever show in Johannesburg."The people in Jo'burg should look forward to a complete Zimbabwean package because I know that a lot of them out there love gospel music from here," he said.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has suspended Guinea-Bissau from its decision-making bodies following the successful coup in the country.

The decision was made during an emergency meeting of the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council (MSC), which expressed deep concern over the unfolding political crisis.

The MSC decides, in accordance with the provisions of the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance 2001 (A/SP/12/01), to suspend Guinea-Bissau from all ECOWAS decision-making bodies until the restoration of full and effective constitutional order in the country, the statement announcing the decision of the bloc read.

The MSC also condemned the coup in the strongest terms, emphasising Guinea-Bissaus commitment to democracy, as demonstrated by the citizens active participation in the presidential and parliamentary elections held on Sunday.

The body also called for the unconditional restoration of constitutional order and rejected any arrangements that subvert the democratic process or the will of the people.

The council demanded that the military leaders respect the electoral process, allow the National Electoral Commission to declare results without delay, and release all detained officials, including President Umaro Embalo, electoral officials, and other political figures.

The MSC further asked that the coup leaders guarantee the safe passage of international election observers, including those from ECOWAS.

The Council said, It rejects any arrangements that perpetuate the illegal abortion of the democratic process and the subversion of the will of the people of Guinea-Bissau.

The MSC demanded that the leaders of the coup respect the will of the people and allow the National Electoral Commission to proceed without delay with the declaration of the results of the elections of 23 November 2025.

PREMIUM TIMES, on Wednesday, reported that a group of army officers in Guinea-Bissau announced the suspension of the countrys electoral process and declared that they were taking control until further notice.

The officials, who described themselves as the High Military Command for the Restoration of Order, removed Mr Embalo from power, halted the electoral process, closed the countrys borders, and planned to enforce a curfew.

On Thursday, the soldiers swore in a military leader who had served as the Chief of Army Staff, Horta Inta-A, as the transitional President, while Mr Embalo fled to Senegal.

The actions have drawn criticism across West Africa, with several governments and the subregional bloc calling for a return to constitutional order.

To facilitate this, ECOWAS announced that a high-level mediation mission will engage the coup leaders.

The mission will include President Faure Gnassingbe of Togo, President Jose Neves of Cabo Verde, and President Bassirou Faye of Senegal, accompanied by the President of the ECOWAS Commission.

The MSC also urged Guinea-Bissaus armed forces to return to barracks and maintain their constitutional role, while the ECOWAS Stabilisation Support Mission in Guinea-Bissau (ESSMGB) continues to protect national institutions.
The development Research and Projects Centre (dRPC) is hosting a one-day event in Abuja to launch a research report titled Digital Threats to Women in Politics in Nigeria: Experiences of Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TF-GBV) and Political Parties Responses.

The event brings together policymakers, political parties, civil society organisations, the media, and development partners to share key findings on technology-facilitated gender-based violence in Nigerian politics and mobilise stakeholders to implement actionable recommendations.

dRPC led the research under the Advancing Learning and Innovation on Gender Norms (ALIGN) platform, with funding from the Overseas Development Institute (ODI).

The report shows how digital spaces are increasingly used to silence and intimidate women in Nigerian politics. It also highlights how social and gender norms shape political parties responses to rising online abuse, such as harassment, cyberstalking, doxxing, and other forms of digital attacks targeting women seeking or holding elective positions.

The project documents real experiences of technology-facilitated gender-based violence and examines how political parties react to such incidents.

Organisers said it aims to generate evidence-based recommendations to help political parties, digital platforms, and regulators build safer and more inclusive political spaces for women.

Preliminary findings reveal that most political parties lack internal mechanisms to address TF-GBV. Many women also hesitate to report incidents due to stigma or fear of political repercussions, findings show.

The main objective of todays programme is to present the key findings and mobilise policymakers, political parties, civil society groups, and the media to act on the recommendations.

READ ALSO: dRPC awards grants to 17 Nigerian NGOs to bridge USAID funding gap

Panel: Digital Threats to Women in Politics in Nigeria

Panellists include Olayinka David-West, a professor at Lagos Business School; Adebowale Olorunmola of the Westminster Foundation for Democracy; Maryam Gwadabe of the Blue Sapphire Hub Foundation, and Chioma Ugwu from the Department of Political and Administrative Studies, University of Port Harcourt.

A fireside chat will also be held on Political Parties and Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence: From Silence to Action. Moderated by Musa Umar, acting director of research at NIPSS, the session will feature Yusuf Dantalle, chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC); Mimidoo Achakpa, co-convener of the Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room; Mary Idele, national women leader of the All Progressives Congress; Chinyere Marvellous of the IPAC Womens Wing; Lakunuya Bello, director of gender and inclusivity at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC); and Ojogun Osifo, director-general of the National Population Commission.

Stay on this page as PREMIUM TIMES provides live updates from the event scheduled to begin at 9:00 a.m.

9:50 a.m.

The moderator and compere, Umar Kawu, called the event to order.

9:51 a.m.

The event officially commenced with the singing of the National Anthem, followed by a prayer.

9:54 a.m.

The Master of the Ceremony invited the Hotel Safety Manager to brief participants on safety protocols.

9:56 a.m.

The Master of the Ceremony introduced Alhaji Nasiru, representative of the Minister of Women Affairs, followed by Salma Ibrahim, special adviser to the President on Health and Board Member of the dRPC.

9:59 a.m.

Mr Kawu highlighted the main objective of the programme: to present the key findings and rally policymakers, political parties, civil society groups, and the media to act on the recommendations.

10:00 a.m.

The MC invites Mrs Ibrahim for the welcome and opening address.

10:02 a.m.

Mrs Ibrahim welcomed participants on behalf of the dRPC. She described the programmes theme as timely and crucial, noting that it comes at a pivotal moment with Nigeria heading into elections in less than two years.

She emphasised that the issues extend beyond social media, affecting Nigerias democracy, particularly in terms of womens political participation.

10:08 a.m.

She highlighted that the report exposes cyberbullying, doxxing, and other online tactics aimed at intimidating women.

Mrs Ibrahim shared her personal experience of abuse during her 2019 senatorial campaign in Borno State, recalling that a politician once warned her she would be discouraged from contesting again.

She further noted that digital hostility operates alongside entrenched cultural norms that question womens suitability for political power.

10:17 a.m:

Ms Ibrahim encouraged participants to pay attention to the recommendations highlighted in the report, noting that solving the issues is not about the findings but about the implementation of the recommendations in the report.

She explained that the Cybercrimes Act 2025, as amended, and the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act are designed to tackle offences to ensure that the digital space is no longer a lawless frontier.

She, however, noted that the report calls for the review of existing policies.

Ms Ibrahim noted that the government is highly committed to create safe spaces for women.

10:18 a.m:

She congratulated dRPC and ALIGN for the explanatory report, while calling on stakeholders to continue working with the government to ensure a society where women are not treated as second-class citizens.

Jan Michako of ODI Global was invited to give his address.

10:22 am: In his welcome address, Mr Michako congratulated the dRPC on the hard work put into coming up with the report.

He said the research shows that physical, psychological, sexual and other forms of violence are used to enforce norms against women in politics because they challenge power and the status quo.

He said the attacks are further shaped by other characteristics, such as age and religion.

10:29 am: Mr Michako said theres an undeniable link between online violence and offline impact.

According to him, the time to act is now, through regulations and other means, to address the negative trends that threaten womens participation in politics.

He noted that the unique part of the dRPC-led study is the inclusion of political parties.

10:31 a.m.

Mr Kawu invited the first panel for a Report Review. The panel will discuss Digital Threats to Women in Politics in Nigeria: Experiences of Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TF-GBV) and Political Parties Responses.

Stanley Ukpai, the dRPC project director, is moderating the panel.

Panellists include Olayinka David-West, a professor at the Lagos Business School; Adebowale Olorunmola of the Westminster Foundation for Democracy; Maryam Lawan Gwadabe of the Blue Sapphire Hub Foundation; and Chioma Scholastica Ugwu from the Department of Political and Administrative Studies at the University of Port Harcourt.

10:34 am: Ms Gwadabe began by saying she reviewed the report and wondered why all the political parties do not have a template of how to address technology-facilitated GBV, leaving the survivors or victims the only ones to bear the consequences of the violence.

She said the negligence cut across all policies and regulations.

She said the Cybercrime Act also did not specifically mention technology-assisted GBV, hence the need for

10:37 am: In his intervention, Mr Olorunmola said what stood out to him was that the report moved technology-facilitated GBV from an abstract term to an evidence-based phenomenon that can be used subsequently to track the spread of awareness and advocate against perpetrators, as well as how it can be addressed.

He said it is instructive that the report mentioned that it also happened within political parties, not just from opponents from other political parties.

He suggested that the efforts to address it should start from within political parties.

10:39 am: Ms Ugwu commended the dRPC for the research.

She also emphasised that none of the political parties have technology-assisted GBV in their constitutions.

10:46 a.m.

Mr Ukpai asked Ms Ugwu about the level of violence women experienced during the 2023 elections. He also asked whether the findings surprised her and what political parties could do to address the problem.

10:48 a.m.

Ms Ugwu said the bullying and attacks targeted at women are rooted in deeply entrenched patriarchal norms. She noted that the implementation of the few existing protective laws remains slow and weak, and that security agencies have not fulfilled their responsibilities effectively.

She cited the case of Jennifer Bina Efidi, who was intimidated and assaulted at a polling unit during the 2023 presidential election, with no security personnel present to protect her.

She also highlighted the economic disadvantages faced by many women, particularly the lack of resources needed to run effective campaigns.

Ms Ugwu recommended stronger collaboration among political parties, academic institutions, civil society organisations, and the electoral commission to integrate technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TF-GBV) into their constitutions and regulations. She said such measures should include clear sanctions against perpetrators.

10:53 a.m.

Mr Olorunmola said TF-GBV will continue to escalate if decisive action is not taken.

He noted that while people increasingly live and interact online, the digital space remains poorly regulated to address technology-facilitated gender-based violence.

10:55 a.m.

Mr Olorunmola warned that technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TF-GBV) will continue to escalate unless deliberate action is taken now.

He noted that while society increasingly operates both online and offline, regulatory and protective measures in the offline space remain weak, leaving TF-GBV issues unaddressed.

Mr Olorunmola stressed the need to frame TF-GBV not as women complaining but as a systemic problem that undermines the credibility and competitiveness of political parties and political actors.

Although women are disproportionately affected, he said the issue must not be presented as yet another womens law but as a matter of political integrity and democratic fairness.

He also urged that advocacy efforts target young people, youth wings of political parties, and the digital communication teams of politicians and campaign organisations.

11:03 a.m.

Ms Gwadabe said storytelling is one of the most effective approaches to advocacy.

She noted that her organisation has produced a short online video series to reach audiences who do not engage with long written content

11:08 a.m.

Ms Gwadabe called for stronger digital literacy initiatives among young people, particularly around advocacy on technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TF-GBV). She also recommended that the dRPC begin engaging political parties to include clear clauses on TF-GBV in their constitutions.

11:13 a.m.

Mr Olorunmola suggested working with the relevant departments at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to integrate TF-GBV provisions into the Commissions guidelines for political parties.

If INEC adopts such guidelines, he said, political parties would be compelled to implement them.

11:14 a.m.

Ms Ugwu called for stronger collaboration between the dRPC, INEC, and political parties to institutionalise TF-GBV as a policy issue. She added that political parties should establish dedicated womens structures to monitor TF-GBV, just as they already have womens wings responsible for mobilisation.

11:17 a.m.

The panel session concluded.

The moderator thanked the panellists for their insights and the audience for their engagement.

11:18 a.m. Mr Kawu introduced the fireside chat titled Political Parties and Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence: From Silence to Action.

The session is moderated by Professor Musa Umar, acting director of research at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS).

Panellists include: Dipo Olayinka, secretary, Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC): Zainab Ibrahim, director-general of women affairs at IPAC, represented by Chinyere Kalu, national women leader of the Zenith Party; and Fatima Inuwa, representing Ojogun Osir, director-general, National Population Commission (NPC).

11:25 a.m.

Mr Olayinka commended the dRPC for its work. He noted that most political parties were formed nearly two decades ago, at a time when TF-GBV was not widely recognised, and therefore their constitutions do not reflect the realities of todays digital political environment.

11:32 a.m.

Ms Olayinka commended the dRPC for its efforts in producing the research.

She noted that most political parties were established about two decades ago, at a time when TF-GBV was not a prominent issue, and this gap is reflected in their constitutions.

For general acceptability, she advised framing the advocacy beyond gender alone.

She stressed that political parties being the primary vehicles through which individuals access political office must ensure the protection of women who wish to participate in politics.

Doing so, she said, is in the best interest of the country and its citizens.

She also noted that the IPC now has increased representation within the IPAC executive council.

11:35 a.m.

Mr Simon stated that CSOs have already demonstrated their relevance by successfully pushing for reforms offline.

He said the next step is to extend this accountability work online, as TF-GBV has become a pervasive threat to democratic values.

He proposed the creation of a situation room to track TF-GBV cases and publicly name and shame perpetrators.

11:36 a.m.

Ms Kalu recalled that two years ago, the IPC developed a strategic plan establishing three directorates, including the Directorate for Women, Gender, and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

She said the IPAC Womens Directorate has developed a sustainability roadmap spanning the national, zonal, state, and ward levels. Membership of IPAC, she noted, is open, and women are encouraged to join any political party of their choice.

11:40 a.m.

She added that the directorate mentors women in politics as a formal career path, and for the first time, women have mobilised other women at scale.

Ms Kalu also highlighted the Catching Them Young project, introduced in one university in each geo-political zone by her political party.

The directorate aims to sponsor at least one female student per university to contest student union elections, she said.

11:45 a.m.

Ms Inuwa said the NDHS indicator of the TF-GBV indicates that the girls molested online are young girls.

She said most of them cannot talk because of the fear of their parents and fear of stigmatisation.

She said women face three times more problems than men online.

11:50 a.m.

Mr Olayinka of IPAC said political parties struggle to sanction their members for wrongdoings as a result of court interference.

He explained that INEC has a strict timeline for political parties to conduct their activities before elections, and when the party tries to sanction an official, they usually resort to the courts, where litigation could drag on for a long time beyond the INEC timeline.

11:52 a.m.

He called on the judiciary to remove itself from party administration and allow political parties to deal with its members appropriately.

12:01 p.m.

Ms Inuwa said the NDHS survey will continue to include GBV, including TFGBV in the report.

12:02 p.m. The panel comes to an end.

12:03 p.m. Mr Kawu introduced Agnes Abraham, the Director Planning and Research Federal Ministry of Women Affairs

12:05 p.m.

The MC also introduced the next panel session. The panellists are: Theophilus Abah, the Director, DailyTrust Foundation; Director Senator Oluremi Tinubu Gender for Excellence, Professor Irene Agunloye. The panel is to be moderated by Plangsat Dayil, a consultant with dRPC and a lecturer at the University.

The session is titled Gender Norms, Media Narrative and Women in APpointive Positions in Nigeria Research Report  One Year on: Have We Made Progress?

12:13 p.m.

Professor Agunloye highlighted how deeply embedded patriarchal assumptions shape public expectations. She said the media often reinforces these biases by over-scrutinising womens personal lives rather than their professional achievements.

She added that media framing continues to cast politics as a male space. She called for sustained sensitisation of women journalists and activists, noting that unsensitised women also perpetuate stereotypes. She further urged senior women professionals to mentor younger women.

12:22 p.m.

Mr Abah recommended producing a guidebook and training journalists on gender-sensitive reporting.

12:26 p.m.

Professor Agunloye also urged women to invest in media relations.

12:27 p.m.

The panel session ended.

12:29 p.m.

The MC introduced the final item on the agenda, which is the launch and unveiling of the report.

He invited Aisha Bello, Hashim, and Razak Kareem to the podium.

He added that the Minister of Womens Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, would deliver her remarks before the launch.

12:32 p.m.

The minister was represented by her Special Adviser on Politics, Nasiru Zakari.

Mr Zakari said Ms Sulaiman-Ibrahim is currently considering legal action in response to violations against her on social media.

12:30 p.m.

Ms Sulaiman-Ibrahim commended the dRPC for producing the report. She said ending digital violence against women is a national priority to keep women safe.

12:32 p.m.

She said digital violence is harmful and remains a lived reality for many Nigerian women, especially those in political leadership. She reaffirmed the governments commitment to ending the problem and protecting girls across the country.

12:33 p.m.

She said strengthening the judiciary is one of the governments core plans, noting that 35 states have domesticated the VAPP Act. She also announced plans to establish an Emergency GBV Response Fund to guarantee womens safety when it is needed most.

12:36 p.m.

Ms Suleiman-Ibrahim said the government is also investing in digital literacy and online safety for Nigerian women.

12:37 p.m.

She said the Ministry of Women Affairs will ensure that Artificial Intelligence becomes a tool for opportunity, not harm, for women.

12:38 p.m.

She said the ministry will continue advocacy until the report informs policy. She launched the report and expressed hope that it marks the beginning of reforms that will allow women to participate fully and without fear in politics.

12:39 p.m.

The MC invited members of the high table and the panellists for the formal launch of the report.

12:41 p.m.

The ministers representative, Mr Zakari, launched the report.

12:41 p.m.

Photo session.

12:45 p.m.

Read the full report here.

The END
Top officials from the Nigerian Ministry of Health and its agencies have pledged to pursue evidence-driven reforms, promote innovation, and strengthen financing to improve healthcare service delivery nationwide.

The commitment was made on Thursday during the National Health Dialogue held at Fraser Suites, Abuja, which brought together policymakers, health innovators, journalists, and civil society representatives.

Organised by PREMIUM TIMES in partnership with the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), the event was themed Evidence, Innovation, and Financing for a Healthier Nigeria.

The dialogue explored gaps in the countrys health system, advanced accountability, and sought practical solutions to enhance public health outcomes.

The forum provided a platform for government officials, global health leaders, journalists, civil society actors, and innovators to discuss challenges and identify evidence-based, innovative strategies for strengthening Nigerias healthcare system.

In his submission, Nigerias Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Pate, said the federal government is pushing for the highest health allocation in Nigerias history, ending wasteful spending practices and strengthening accountability across the system.

Mr Pate said he expects Nigerias 2026 budget to move closer to a six per cent health allocation, the highest ever in federal spending.

The minister said the ministry has ended decades-old spending patterns in which much of the health budget went to workshops, meetings and administrative activities.

In 2023, 61 per cent of the Excel funding went to policy and monitoring workshops. This year 91 per cent is going directly to service delivery, he said.

The minister stressed the need for more efficient spending, with greater emphasis on primary healthcare, hospitals, cancer care, intensive care, and affordability.

Earlier, in his keynote address, the Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Muyi Aina, said evidence, innovation, and adequate financing are essential for improving health service delivery nationwide.

Over the past two years, the government has completed more than 2,000 additional primary healthcare facilities, many fully equipped and staffed. More than 70,000 health workers have been trained in the same period, while primary healthcare centres have recorded between 46 and 47 million service visits.

Maternal and child health remains a focus, with millions of pregnant women now being followed through the system, and antenatal care attendance rising by 22.5 per cent, Mr Aina said.

He also highlighted innovations such as digital tracking systems, digitised financial management, and improved connectivity for vaccination campaigns, all aimed at improving accountability and service efficiency.

Mr Aina stressed the need for deeper collaboration with state governments, civil society, and the media to strengthen accountability, expand access, and build community trust in the primary healthcare system.

NACA Reaffirms Commitment to HIV Response

In her goodwill message, the Director-General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), Temitope Ilori, commended PREMIUM TIMES and CJID for providing a platform to deepen accountability in health reporting.

She highlighted the intersection of journalism, public health, and national development, noting that quality reportage shapes policy, strengthens public trust, and saves lives.

Mrs Ilori reaffirmed NACAs commitment to sustaining gains in the HIV response through evidence-driven coordination, strengthened partnerships, and a focus on prevention and treatment.

She described the dialogue as a timely opportunity to reflect on progress, address persistent bottlenecks, and chart pathways toward a people-centred health system.

Return to functional primary health care

The WHO Country Representative to Nigeria, Pavel Ursu, represented by Taiwo Hamzat of the organisations Supply Chain Management unit, described Nigeria as being at a pivotal moment in health-sector reform.

While routine immunisation coverage has improved from five per cent in 2013 to 39 per cent in 2024, inefficiency, inequity, and weak accountability continue to slow progress, he said.

Mr Ursu stressed that meaningful transformation must begin at the community level, recalling that primary healthcare was the only point of contact for most families during his childhood in a rural community. He urged a return to the days when primary health care worked for every Nigerian family.

He called for consistent policies, stronger accountability frameworks, and credible data to guide planning and budgeting. He said the WHO is supporting Nigeria to strengthen digital health regulation, community-led innovations, and data systems that inform evidence-driven decisions.

Mr Ursu also highlighted the urgency of sustainable health financing. With out-of-pocket payments accounting for 71 per cent of health spending, millions remain vulnerable to financial hardship, he said.

.Although enrolment in the National Health Insurance Authority grew from 16.7 million in 2023 to 19.2 million in 2024, he said the government must do more to meet its 2025 target of 44 million insured Nigerians.

He called for meaningful youth engagement and gender equity, noting that 63 per cent of the population is under 25. Young people must be central to designing and monitoring health policies, while women deserve equitable access to services and leadership opportunities, he said.

Participants emphasised that Nigeria stands at a crucial point in health reform. While gains have been made in immunisation coverage, primary healthcare and workforce training, inefficiencies, inequities, and weak accountability remain challenges.

At the event, other health experts reiterated the need for sustainable financing, stronger policy consistency, gender equity, and youth engagement.

They also called for collaboration between governments, civil society, media, and communities to ensure that reforms are practical, evidence-based, and inclusive.

The dialogue reinforced that evidence, innovation, and proper finance are key to achieving a more people-centred, equitable, and efficient health system in Nigeria.
Health sector leaders and policymakers on Thursday outlined urgent steps Nigeria must take to strengthen primary healthcare (PHC) delivery and mobilise sustainable financing in a rapidly shifting post-aid environment.

They spoke at the 2025 National Health Dialogue hosted by PREMIUM TIMES in partnership with the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), with support from the Gates Foundation.

The forum brought together government officials, global health experts, civil society actors and journalists under the theme: Evidence, Innovation, and Financing for a Healthier Nigeria.

The real cost of PHC

A panel moderated by Tolulope Aderelu-Balogun of News Central featured the Executive Secretary of the Kaduna State Primary Health Care Board, Bello Jamoh; Executive Secretary of the Kwara SPHCDA, Nusirat Elelu; CEO of Nisa Premier Hospital, Ibrahim Wada; Editor-in-Chief of the African Journal of Health Economics, Obinna Onwujekwe; and PREMIUM TIMES Health Editor, Nike Adebowale-Tambe.

The session examined the Real Cost of Primary Healthcare: Examining the State of PHC Delivery at the Sub-National Level.

Mr Jamoh said Kaduna State now replaces retiring health workers immediately to prevent service disruption. He noted that the state manages 260 PHCs, with more than 200 fully functional, and is building generation-to-generation health capacity through strong supervision and community engagement.

Mrs Elelu said Kwara is revitalising at least one fully functional PHC per LGA and has recruited over 1,000 health workers this year.

She added that upgraded PHCs now run 24-hour services supported by security personnel, perimeter fencing and staff quarters. The state, she said, is also strengthening equitable distribution, digital capacity and emergency response.

Mr Wada underscored the role of investigative journalism in improving health accountability, noting that despite troubling public health indices, private-sector contributions and publicprivate partnerships offer hope for better outcomes.

Speaking on the medias role, Mrs Adebowale-Tambe said many health workers are afraid to share information because of job insecurity. She highlighted the impact of visual storytelling: The documentary shown today made the crisis feel more real. Faces and suffering were visible.

She urged newsrooms to collaborate more, citing global cross-border projects such as the Panama Papers and Pandora Papers.

Addressing PHC security concerns, Mrs Elelu said protection levels differ by community risk but insisted that all upgraded PHCs in Kwara must have dedicated security personnel to operate round-the-clock.

Mr Jamoh said sustainable PHC development requires balancing political priorities with technical needs. Kaduna, he said, aims to reduce maternal mortality by 2530 per cent in two years through improved labour management, emergency response training, and strengthened reproductive health care.

Financing health in a post-aid era

A second panel moderated by Enitan Tejuoso of the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain (PVAC) featured Charles Doherty of the Ekiti Health Insurance Scheme; Uchenna Igbokwe, CEO of Solina Centre; Amina Dorayi, senior country director at Pathfinder International; and Biobele Davidson, Strengthening Health Systems lead at BudgIt.

Mr Igbokwe warned that Nigerias heavy dependence on external funding for immunisation and other public health programmes is unsustainable. He called for expanded mandatory health insurance, an increase in the Basic Health Care Provision Fund from one to two per cent, and more strategic private-sector participation.

Ms Dorayi said Nigeria must build a sovereign health system by reducing reliance on aid. She proposed that every state ministry dedicate one per cent of its budget to a community-managed health trust fund. She also emphasised preventive care, lifestyle modification, clear health communication, and treating womens health as a state of emergency.

Mr Doherty said Nigeria must move from rhetoric to action, noting that out-of-pocket spending remains above 70 per cent, while most states allocate less than five per cent of their budgets to healthfar below the Abuja Declaration target. He added that donor funds often get lost in logistics, with up to 65 per cent spent on overheads rather than services.

Ms Davidson highlighted the need for community ownership, transparency and digital accountability tools such as the PHC Tracker. She said decisions must reflect the voices of those affected and called for stronger budget credibility and data-driven planning.

Mr Igbokwe added that Nigeria must cultivate millions of local health champions, citing the Community Womens Orientation Network, which trains young women who already deliver vaccines house-to-house to serve as community health educators.

Federal government commitments

Earlier, the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Pate, said the federal government is working to secure the highest health budget in Nigerias history, curb wasteful spending and strengthen accountability.

He said decades of underinvestment, weak governance and unclear responsibilities have denied Nigerians reliable healthcare.

The 2025 Dialogue

The dialogue also featured a fireside chat with Mr Pate, alongside remarks from the NPHCDA Director-General, Muyi Aina; the NACA Director-General, Temitope Ilori; and several state health commissioners.

A dedicated session on state-level financing priorities for 2026 featured presentations from the Permanent Secretary of the Abia State Ministry of Health, Ifeyinwa Blossom; the Jigawa State Commissioner for Health, Muhammad Kainuwa; and the Katsina State Commissioner for Health, Musa Funtua.

The event also showcased outstanding health journalism by PUNCH Newspaper, community health engagement strategies by Nigeria Health Watch, and health innovation exhibitions by DRO Health, HelpMum and Dobic Health.
With health indicators in a dire state across many states, senior government officials and state commissioners on Thursday set out new commitments to reverse years of underfunding and weak service delivery.

The officials spoke at the 2025 National Health Dialogue, hosted by PREMIUM TIMES and the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID).

The event brought together government representatives, global health leaders, journalists, civil society groups and innovators under the theme: Evidence, Innovation, and Financing for a Healthier Nigeria.

Nigerias Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Pate, said the federal government is pushing for the highest health allocation in the countrys history, while curbing waste and strengthening accountability. He said the Bola Tinubu administration is working to reposition health as a national priority and called for stronger collaboration across all levels of government.

Commitments from state governments

Representing the Katsina government, Commissioner for Health, Musa Funtua, highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen primary healthcare. He said more than 200 PHCs have been completed and staffed, and that about 70 per cent of the states health budget now goes directly into projects.

Katsina currently allocates seven per cent of its budget to health, Mr Funtua said, adding that the state prioritises community engagement and investments that directly benefit citizens.

He added that the government is upgrading facilities, tackling workforce gaps and expanding access through its comprehensive PHC roadmap.

Akwa Ibom

Moses Essien, Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assemblys Health Committee, said the states health allocation ranges between 11 and 11.6 per cent. He said this is far above the national average of 5.7 per cent, though still below the 15 per cent Abuja Declaration target.

He said the state has declared a one-year health emergency aimed at upgrading infrastructure. At least eight secondary health facilities and 25 PHCs will be modernised between November and January, he noted.

Akwa Ibom has also expanded its workforce, recruiting 3,000 health personnel, including reinstated retirees, to close manpower gaps, the state lawmaker said.

Mr Essien said scores of PHCs and 14 secondary health facilities have been upgraded, with plans for model private health centres in all 31 LGAs.

Jigawa

The Jigawa State Commissioner for Health, Muhammad Kainuwa, said all PHCs in the state now operate for 24 hours to ensure timely care for pregnant women, children and other patients. He said N9.4 billion has been allocated to PHCs in the 2025 budget.

From February to August 2026, the state plans to upgrade over 40 facilities with modern equipment. Its health insurance scheme has enrolled 152,000 vulnerable residents, while civil servants on grades 16 receive free coverage, he said.

Mr Kainuwa added that the state has boosted its workforce with 1,924 health workers, 200 senior staff and 488 permanent employees across health disciplines. Jigawa also pays National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members posted to health facilities to retain them, he said.

Beyond staffing, the state has sponsored 184 medical students to study in Cyprus, extended accreditation for medical training from two to five years, and expanded annual admission quotas from 120 to 720 across its institutions. A new School of Nursing, backed by a 5 billion investment, is under construction.

The commissioner also announced three new dialysis centres in Dutse, Kazaure and Ringim General Hospitals. Contracts worth 720 million have been awarded for equipping them. Jigawa is partnering with the National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR) to investigate the rising cases of renal failure in the state and the wider Chad Basin.

Kaduna

Kadunas Deputy Governor, Hadiza Balarabe, said health has consistently received 15 per cent of the states budget since Governor Uba Sani assumed office in 2023.

She said Kaduna is strengthening emergency care, improving service delivery and linking health with education and nutrition in a multi-sectoral strategy. The state has recruited and trained 1,800 health workers and introduced digital monitoring systems to track performance.

Despite progress in reducing neonatal deaths, maternal mortality remains high, she said. The state continues to partner with development organisations, including the Gates Foundation, to improve financing and rural health access.

Abia

Ifeyinwa Blossom, the permanent secretary of the Abia State Ministry of Health, said the government is renovating and revitalising over 200 PHCs, ensuring they have the required staff and infrastructure.

She said general and teaching hospitals are also being strengthened to manage cases beyond primary care. Abia is improving security and access for health workers and deploying Emergency Medical Care Staff (EMCS) to high-density areas.

The state is expanding community outreach and preventive programmes to increase facility use, the official said.
Nigeria has signed a major Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Brazil to accelerate local pharmaceutical manufacturing and strengthen industrial cooperation.

The agreement is between the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain (PVAC), EMS Brazil, and Oaks Medical Limited.

The signing ceremony, hosted by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, was presided over by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Pate.

According to a statement posted on the Nigerian governments official X account on 26 November, the deal is part of renewed efforts to translate high-level diplomatic commitments into operational partnerships.

Nigerias pharmaceutical sector remains heavily import-dependent, currently producing less than 40 per cent of national drug needs.

In April, the government announced a target of achieving 70 per cent local pharmaceutical production by 2030, under the PVAC initiative.

The Minister said the initiative is also designed to expand the countrys life sciences workforce. He noted that the existing workforce of about 20,000 full-time employees is expected to grow by tens of thousands as manufacturing capacity increases.

MoU builds on previous engagements

According to the statement, the new MoU follows recent engagements between President Bola Tinubu and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva during the Nigerian leaders visit to Brazil.

Both presidents had emphasised deeper cooperation in pharmaceutical development, vaccine production, and industrial growth.

It noted that the agreement is expected to significantly boost local production of essential medicines and vaccines, reduce import dependency, and strengthen Nigerias health security.

Focus areas

Under the partnership, the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII) will serve as the implementation framework to address bottlenecks across the healthcare value chain.

READ ALSO: Ogun advocates temporary ban on exportation of lead ingot

The framework prioritises: technology transfer from Brazilian partners, capacity building for Nigerian pharmaceutical scientists and manufacturers, upgrading and expansion of local production facilities, and strengthening regulatory and industrial systems.

The government said the policy aims to ensure that ongoing reforms translate into practical benefits for citizens by engaging both public and private sector players.

The collaboration is also expected to deepen long-term technical and industrial ties between Nigeria and Brazil.

These include enhanced knowledge sharing, improved skills development, and increased investment in local pharmaceutical infrastructure.

Through the PVAC platform, the government is working to accelerate vaccine and pharmaceutical self-reliance while generating new economic opportunities, boosting employment, and reinforcing Nigerias position in the global healthcare and industrial landscape, the statement added.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has reported that global immunisation efforts have contributed to an 88% reduction in measles-related deaths between 2000 and 2024, saving nearly 59 million lives worldwide.

However, an estimated 95,000 people, mostly children under five, died from measles in 2024, WHO said on Friday, noting that every death from a preventable disease remained unacceptable despite progress achieved.

In spite of fewer deaths, measles infections are surging globally, with an estimated 11 million cases in 2024, almost 800,000 higher than pre-pandemic levels in 2019, the organisation added, highlighting persistent gaps in vaccination coverage.

WHO Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus said measles was the worlds most contagious virus, warning that it exploited any weaknesses in collective immunisation, emphasising the urgent need for action to protect every child and community.

Measles does not respect borders, but full vaccination of every child prevents outbreaks, saves lives, and can eliminate the disease entirely from nations, Ghebreyesus said, stressing global vaccination equity as crucial.

He noted measles cases surged 86 per cent in the Eastern Mediterranean Region, 47 per cent in Europe, and 42 per cent in South-East Asia in 2024 compared to pre-pandemic levels.

Conversely, Mr Ghebreyesus said the African Region experienced a 40 per cent decline in cases and a 50 per cent reduction in deaths, largely due to improved immunisation coverage and public health interventions.

While mortality may be lower in high-income countries, infected individuals still risk blindness, pneumonia, and encephalitis, resulting in lifelong complications in spite of advances in healthcare and nutrition, he warned, calling for continued vigilance.

WHO estimates show that in 2024, 84 per cent of children received the first measles vaccine dose, but only 76 per cent received the second dose, leaving millions under-protected against infection.

This represents a slight improvement from 2023, with two million additional children immunised, but the 95 per cent threshold for measles elimination is still unmet, Ghebreyesus said, urging stronger global immunisation efforts.

He said more than 30 million children remained under-protected, most in African and Eastern Mediterranean regions, often in fragile, conflict-affected, or underserved communities, creating gaps that facilitated ongoing outbreaks.

The Immunisation Agenda 2030 Mid-Term Review shows measles resurges first when vaccination coverage drops, highlighting weaknesses in immunisation systems that threaten progress toward elimination goals, he added, calling for urgent corrective measures.

In 2024, 59 countries reported large or disruptive outbreaks, the highest number since the COVID-19 pandemic, underscoring that measles remains a persistent threat even where vaccination rates are high overall.

All regions except the Americas experienced at least one major outbreak in 2024, though the Americas faced renewed outbreaks in 2025, showing the fragility of elimination efforts globally, Ghebreyesus said.

He highlighted improvements in surveillance, noting that more than 760 laboratories in the Global Measles and Rubella Laboratory Network tested over 500,000 samples in 2024, a 27% increase from the previous year.

However, deep funding cuts threaten immunisation programmes and laboratory networks, risking immunity gaps and future outbreaks unless sustainable domestic financing and partnerships are secured, Mr Ghebreyesus warned.

He said that by the end of 2024, 81 countries had eliminated measles, just three more than before the pandemic, with 96 countries verified for elimination globally following recent updates in 2025, according to the WHO.

Even high-income countries experience resurgences when local vaccination drops below 95 per cent, leaving unprotected pockets at risk and enabling outbreaks in spite of high national coverage, Mr Ghebreyesus explained.

He emphasised that measles elimination necessitated a strong political commitment, sustained investment, and comprehensive strategies to ensure that all children received two doses, while robust surveillance detected outbreaks promptly.

He said the IA2030 Mid-Term Review urged countries and partners to strengthen routine immunisation, surveillance, rapid response capabilities, and high-coverage campaigns to protect every child until vaccination coverage was sufficient to prevent transmission.

(NAN)
Health advocates have renewed calls for Nigeria to take full ownership of its HIV response, warning that dependence on foreign donors threatens long-term sustainability of treatment, prevention, and care services.

The call was made on Thursday at a media engagement organised by the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) ahead of the 2025 World AIDS Day commemoration in Abuja.

In his remarks, the President of the Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria (NEPWHAN), Abdulkadir Ibrahim, urged government and stakeholders to prioritise local solutions and reduce reliance on international funding.

Mr Ibrahim said it is time for Nigeria to take full ownership of its HIV response and build a health system that leaves no one behind, including people living with HIV.

He noted that although HIV interventions have benefitted from foreign support for years, Nigeria cannot continue to depend on a programme that is being dictated, especially as donor priorities shift.

He said recent changes in United States global health funding illustrated the risk of over reliance on external financing.

While HIV programmes received some protection under the new policy direction, he said prevention efforts were still affected.

He added that what matters now is sustaining the gains already made, noting that integrating HIV into the broader health system would also help reduce stigma by ensuring people living with HIV are treated like other patients.

Retention, innovation, and community ownership

Mr Ibrahim also highlighted the need for better retention in care and modern treatment options.

He advocated for wider access to long-acting injectable therapies for treatment, not just prevention, arguing that they help reduce the burden of daily medication.

Retention is critical. We must continue to support adherence, provide psychosocial services, and ensure people who miss appointments are reconnected to care, he said.

He added that government efforts must be complemented by community actors, including womens groups, youths, and religious leaders, who are central to sustaining progress.

The Senior Manager for Prevention Programmes at AHF, Taofeek Adeleye, called for stronger media engagement to counter misinformation and promote accurate public education on HIV prevention.

Mr Adeleye said prevention messaging must be consistent and visible, much like religious reminders, arguing that preventing one infection saves significant costs in treatment.

We need the media to help demystify the false information that continues to circulate, he said.

AHF expands youth-focused STI and HIV services

AHF Nigeria announced that it recently opened Wellness Centres in Abuja and Benue to address the rising prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STI) among adolescents and young people.

The organisations Country Programme Director, Echey Ijezie, said the centres were established to provide safe, youth-friendly spaces for testing, counselling, and treatment.

Mr Ijezie said the decision to target this population informed the partnership with Keffi State University to expand access for students and empower young people to take charge of their health.

As part of the 2025 World AIDS Day activities, he said AHF will conduct sensitisation campaigns across states, offer free HIV testing, and distribute condoms and other prevention materials.

Mr Ijezie emphasised that HIV remains a global challenge, noting that 1.3 million new infections occur annually.

The commemoration, he said, aims to promote prevention, expand access to care, and demonstrate solidarity with affected communities.

The fight isnt over

The AHF Africa Bureau Chief, Martin Matabishi, said Africa has made significant progress against HIV, but rising infections among young women and adolescents show the response must evolve.

Mr Matabishi said the AIDS response can only be transformed by embracing inclusive health policies, promoting combination prevention, and empowering communities to lead the fight against stigma and inequality.

He also urged the media to continue shaping public understanding and keeping HIV/AIDS and other health priorities visible in national discourse.

World AIDS Day

According to the World Health Organisation, 1 December marks the 2025 World AIDS Day commemoration, with the theme Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response.

WHO said the day highlights the need for sustained political commitment, international cooperation, and human-rights-centred approaches to achieve the goal of ending AIDS by 2030.

The organisation noted that despite decades of progress, the HIV response now stands at a critical point, with life-saving services facing disruptions and many communities experiencing increased risks and vulnerabilities.

However, it added that hope remains in the resilience, determination, and innovation of communities working to end AIDS.
The Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday froze a London property linked to the late Jeremiah Useni, a Nigerian military-era Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Judge Binta Nyako issued the order freezing the property for 14 days, following an ex-parte application by Nigerias Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB).

She ordered that within the 14-day period, the CCB must advertise the court order in a newspaper to invite whoever is interested in the property to come forward to prove legitimate acquisition, a lawyer who witnessed the proceedings told PREMIUM TIMES on Friday.

The property, located at 79 Randall Avenue, London, caught the attention of the Nigerian government following audacious but futile efforts of senior lawyer Mike Ozekhome to claim it.

CCB ultimately seeks to secure a final forfeiture of the property in favour of the Nigerian government, in a complicated legal process expected to later extend to London courts.

If no interested party shows up in court to lay claim to the property or can prove legitimate acquisition of the asset, then the court will make an order of its final forfeiture to the federal government. The Nigerian government will then file the forfeiture order in London to continue the legal process of taking over ownership of the property.

But a successful proof of entitlement to the property by an interested party may mean an end to the governments takeover efforts.

Shady acquisition

CCB is concerned with the enforcement of Nigerias Code of Conduct for Public Officers, including scrutinising assets declared and those actually owned by public officers.

The agency took aim at the London property following a recent London tribunals judgement exposing the shady trajectory of the property from when it was first purchased by Mr Useni in 1993, while he was the FCT minister.

In its judgement delivered on 11 September, the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber), London, United Kingdom, declared that Mr Useni acquired the property with a false name in 1993.

The Nigerian government casts the falsehood as a breach of the code of conduct regarding assets declaration, justifying the forfeiture of the property in issue.

In its first step aimed at securing the forfeiture of the property, the CCB filed an ex parte application seeking the freeze of the property.

Being an ex parte application, no adverse parties were served the request or present in court on Friday.

The judge granted the request.

How shady acquisition was exposed in London

In recent years, the property became a subject of a bitter dispute after Mr Ozekhome, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), applied in 2021 for the transfer of the ownership of the property to himself.

Mr Ozekhomes claim set off a messy court drama when a party, later found to be a ghost personality, Ms Tali Shani, represented by Westfields Solicitors in the UK, equally claimed ownership of the property.

Mr Ozekhome had in August 2021 claimed the property was a gift from a man who presented himself as Tali Shani, said to be the propertys owner, in appreciation for legal services.

He relied on a man who presented himself as Tali Shani, a Nigerian businessman said to have owned the UK property since 1993.

The man, who produced a Nigerian passport, claimed to have bought the property at age 20 with money from family cattle businesses, and later transferred it to Mr Ozekhome out of gratitude for legal services.

In contrast, Ms Tali Shani, later found to be non-existent, insisted she bought the house in her hey days and accused Mr Ozekhome of trying to seize it using impostors.

Ms Tali Shani never appeared before the tribunal, despite multiple adjournments. In 2024, her lawyers filed medical letters claiming she was too ill to testify, and eventually reported that she had died in October 2024, attaching a death certificate from Nigeria.

Investigations later revealed that documents submitted by both sides  including identity cards, utility bills, and a National Identification Number  were forged.

Judge Ewan Paton ruled that neither Mr Ozekhome nor the supposed woman named Ms Tani Shani was the true owner of the property at 79 Randall Avenue.

The judge found that the house was secretly bought in 1993 by the late Mr Useni, the dictator Sani Abacha regimes FCT minister, using a false identity.

Mr Useni, who died in France in January 2025, was a very influential member of the Abacha government and was even in contention to be head of state following Abachas death in June 1998.

The tribunal examined conflicting testimonies, including evidence from Nigerian police and identity authorities, as well as oral testimony from Mr Useni himself before his death.

Before his death, Mr Useni appeared before the court through a video link in 2024. Contrary to Mr Ozekhomes defence, Mr Useni told the court plainly: I owned it. I bought the property. It is my property.

He admitted registering the house in another persons name but denied ever knowing a Ms Tali Shani.

Documents before the tribunal confirmed that the 1993 purchase was made under the false name Philips Bincan, and that Mr Useni had a pattern of using false or coded names, such as Tim Shani, for bank accounts and companies  a practice already established by the Royal Court of Jersey in 2022.

The court held that the similarity of names and timing strongly supported the finding that Mr Useni deliberately used the false name Tali Shani to register the property.

The tribunal found Mr Usenis evidence consistent with purchase records, unlike the shifting accounts of the Shanis or Mr Ozekhome.

The court also ruled that since Mr Tali Shani had no legal title to transfer the London property to Mr Ozekhome, the chief land registrar must cancel Mr Ozekhomes application to be registered as proprietor.

Finally, the court held that since Mr Useni is deceased, ownership now rests with whoever obtains probate of his English assets.

General Useni is now deceased, so on my findings, his title and interest in this property would vest in such persons as obtained a grant of probate or administration in respect of his English assets. Although not strictly bound by my findings (since they were not parties to the case), it is a matter for any such persons, on their own advice, what, if any, steps they take in this regard, the judge said.

Investigation back home

The London court judgements revelation triggered a backlash back home, with many Nigerians condemning the roles Mr Ozekhome and other Nigerians played in the saga.

In September, about three weeks after the judgement was delivered, the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, announced launching a probe into the matter.

Speaking at a Supreme Court event with the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Kudirat Kekere-Ekun in attendance, Mr Fagbemi described the London case as a development that had had an impact on the legal sector.

It is for this reason that my office has now taken the unusual step of verifying the authenticity of this and often complaints with a view to referring them to the appropriate disciplinary bodies, Mr Fagbemi said.

He delivered the remarks at the ceremony marking the beginning of the Supreme Courts new 2025/2026 legal year and conferment of the prestigious rank of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN) on 57 lawyers.

Mr Fagbemi said on Monday that the London case stands out in recent memory and bears sadly on the integrity of the Nigerian legal profession.

It bears sadly on the high esteem and integrity that our noble profession commands as a sine qua non for our collective commitment and investment in the legal brand. I am referring to the recent decision (11th September 2025) of an English property tribunal, by Judge Ewan Paton.

It will be remiss of me not to bring such an egregious development to the attention of my lords, in the hope that it is addressed frontally against the backdrop of the hallowed rules that guard and define the finest traditions by which our nobility should be measured, he said.

He appealed for the cooperation of the Nigerian Bar Association and the Body of Senior Advocates in his efforts at verifying the authenticity of the complaints and referring the erring ones to the necessary disciplinary bodies.
News / National

by Staff reporter

General Emmanuel Matatu formally assumed command of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) on Monday, succeeding General Phillip Valerio Sibanda during a handover-takeover ceremony at Charles Gumbo Barracks, formerly One Commando Barracks.The event attracted political attention after Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, a former ZDF commander, attended in full military uniform  a rare public appearance in fatigues  sparking speculation over possible political symbolism regarding Zanu-PF's succession dynamics.Presidential spokesman George Charamba dismissed such interpretations, describing them as "misplaced." He explained that it is a long-standing military tradition for retired generals of equivalent rank to don uniforms as a mark of respect during a change of command at the top of the ZDF. "The narrative on succession fears is fictional," Charamba said.Chiwenga, who led the ZDF for over a decade and retired in 2017 after the intervention that removed Robert Mugabe, stood alongside senior military chiefs as Matatu took the oath of command.The ceremony marked a major leadership transition in the country's security services, with Sibanda stepping down after a long tenure. President Emmerson Mnangagwa departed the event for the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, where service chiefs and senior officials saw him off. Chiwenga saluted the President before departing for Angola to attend the 7th African UnionEuropean Union Summit.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has ordered the revocation of 1,095 landed properties belonging to some prominent Nigerians, government establishments and private organisations in Abuja for failing to pay ground rent and land use conversion fee.

This revocation was contained in a public notice that accompanied a release by his Special Assistant to the Minister on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, on Friday.

The notice issued by the FCTA was titled: Commencement of enforcement actions on defaulters of Ground Rent payments, Land Use Conversion Fee, C-of-O bills.

According to the document, of the 1,095 listed individuals and organisations, 835 of them defaulted in the payment of ground rent, while 260 defaulted in payment of the violation fee and land use conversion fee thereby contravening the provisions of Section 28, Subsections 5(a) and (b) of the Land Use Act and also the terms and conditions of the grant of the respective Rights of Occupancy (Rof)).

Mr Olayinka said the Federal Capital Territory Authority (FCTA) will commence enforcement action on the lands, some of which have been developed, following the expiration of the 14-day grace given to the defaulters.

Prominent on the list seen by PREMIUM TIMES are a former First Lady of Nigeria, Patience Jonathan, former Defence Minister, Theophilus Danjuma, former Chief of Army Staff, Ishaya Bamaiyi, ambassador-nominee, Kayode Are, and Iyabo Obasanjo, daughter of former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

Others are serving Minister of State John Enoh; Emir of Ilorin, Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, a former National Chairman of the PDP, Uche Secondus, and a former acting national chairman of the party, Abubakar Baraje.

Former governors, whose land titles were revoked, include Abdullahi Ganduje (Kano), Sule Lamido (Jigawa), Ayo Fayose (Ekiti), Olagunsoye Oyinlola (Osun), Donald Duke (Cross River), Niyi Adebayo (Ekiti), Ibrahim Dankwambo (Gombe), Aliyu Wamakko (Sokoto), and Gado Nasko (old Sokoto).

Former ministers listed are Kema Chikwe, Dapo Sarumi, Idika Kalu, Olu Agunloye, and Inna Ciroma.

Serving and former federal lawmakers on the list are Ali Ndume (Borno), Osita Izunaso (Imo), Caleb Zagi (Kaduna), Ganiyu Solomon (Lagos), Olabode Olajumoke (Ondo), Iya Abubakar (Adamawa), Abubakar Sodangi (Nasarawa), Iyiola Omisore (Osun), Patrick Obahiagbon (Edo), Usman Bugaje (Katsina), Abba Aji (Borno), Shehu Agaie (Niger), Patience Ogodo (Ebonyi)d, and Mao Ohuabunwa (Abia), who is the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Wike-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Deceased prominent Nigerians listed are the 1993 presidential candidate of the defunct National Republican Convention (NRC), Bashir Tofa, former PDP BoT Chairman and minister, Tony Anenih, former Finance Minister Adamu Ciroma; former Ohanaeze Leader, Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu; another former Ohanaeze President, Ralph Uwechue; former Ministers Alex Akinyele, Dubem Onyia; Onaolapo Soleye, Yakubu Lame, Babatunde Osotimehin, and John Odey.

Former Anambra governor Chinwoke Mbadinuju, IGP Ibrahim Coomassie, and Delta North Senator, Patrick Osakwe, are others who are dead but are on the list.

Federal government establishments affected are the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), NNPCL, Federal Ministries of Finance, Environment, CBN, NTA, NPA, FHA, RMFAC, NAN; the Nigerian Navy and the Nigeria Police Force.

State government properties revoked are Oyo, Borno, and Kaduna, while banks affected are the Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB), First Bank, EcoBank, Zenith Bank, Union Bank, defunct Diamond Bank, and defunct African Continental Bank. The Catholic Church is one of the faith-based organisations affected.

The announcement reads: The general public, particularly holders of property in the FCT, are hereby notified that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), His Excellency, Barr. Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, CON, has approved he commencement of enforcement actions on a total of 1,095 properties in the Federal Capital City (FCC) for defaulting in various payments.

Despite the several publications/public notices made by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) in some national dailies, online platforms and television stations requesting defaulters to settle their financial obligations/liabilities to the FCTA namely  Ground Rent, Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) Bill, Penalty/Violation Fee, and Land Use Conversion Fee, the underlisted property holders have failed to comply. This contravenes the provisions of Section 28, Subsections 5(a) and (b) of the Land Use Act and also the terms and conditions of the grant of the respective Rights of Occupancy.

Following the expiration of the final grace period of fourteen (14) calendar days on Tuesday, the 25th of November 2025, the FCT Administration will carry out enforcement actions on the 835 properties for defaulting in payment of Ground Rent and 260 properties for defaulting in payment of Violation Fee and Land Use Conversion Fee.

Warnings defied

Mr Wike, on Monday, said that there would be no further extension of the payment deadline in the territory.

The minister warned that the defaulters may lose their properties if they do not meet the payment deadline.

A few days earlier, PREMIUM TIMES reported that the FCTA would commence fresh enforcement actions on Wednesday, 26 November, against defaulters of ground rent, land use change, and conversion fees, as well as right-of-occupancy and certificate-of-occupancy bills.

The administration noted that the two-week and the presidential grace periods granted defaulters four months ago had long elapsed, stressing that it would be the last opportunity for defaulters to pay.

In May, this newspaper also reported that the FCTA sealed some of the 4,792 institutions whose properties were affected by the non-payment of ground rent, including the PDP national secretariat in Zone 5, Wuse District.

Some organisations listed at the time were CBN, INEC, NNPC, NTA, NNDC, NPA, NIPOST, PHCN, NSPMC and NUC.

Find Public Notice Here
The Army Council has approved the promotion of 105 senior officers to the ranks of major general and brigadier general, respectively.

This is in a bid to strengthen leadership capacity and enhance ongoing military operations across the country.

The Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele, a lieutenant colonel, made this known in a statement on Friday in Abuja.

Ms Anele said that 28 brigadier generals were promoted to major general, while 77 colonels were elevated to the rank of brigadier general.

According to her, those promoted to major general include Brig.-Gen. Ojogbane Adegbe of the Defence Intelligence Agency; Brig.-Gen. Samaila Uba, Director Defence Information, and Brig.-Gen. R.E. Hedima, Acting Chief of Military Intelligence (Army).

Others are Brig.-Gen. R.T. Utsaha, Deputy Director Defence Operations, and Brig.-Gen. A.M. Umar, Commandant, Warrant Officers Academy.

They also include Brig.-Gen. S. Sulaiman, Deputy Military Secretary; Brig.-Gen. I.O. Bassey, Director Army Operations Centre; Brig.-Gen. C.A. Ekeator of the Nigerian Army School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering; Brig.-Gen. S.Y. Yakasai, Acting Director of Procurement, and Brig.-Gen. W.L. Nzidee of the Army Logistics Department, among others.

Brig.-Gen. Z.A. Saidu was promoted posthumously, she said.

Ms Anele listed those promoted to Brigadier General as Colonels Y. Ibrahim, N.N. Gambo, A. Saidu, A. Ali; I. Waziri, M.M. Sani; A.A. Alkali; A.O. Ndah; I.B. Sheriff; K.R. Apata; and several others across formations and units nationwide.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Waidi Shaibu, a lieutenant general, congratulated the newly promoted officers and urged them to justify the confidence reposed in them through enhanced professionalism, leadership and commitment to duty.

Mr Shaibu charged them to provide bold, innovative and decisive solutions to Nigerias evolving security challenges, while maintaining absolute loyalty to the Constitution and the defence of the nations territorial integrity.

(NAN)
The federal government has officially declared the Victor Attah International Airport in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, as an international airport.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, made the declaration on Thursday in Abuja during a meeting with the Governor of Akwa Ibom, Umo Eno.

Mr Keyamo said that with the approval, the process for converting to full international operations would commence, qualifying the airport to receive and process international passengers.

According to the minister, the airport has all the standard facilities that will enable it to compete with other international airports across the country.

He added that the airport had all the modern facilities, including a standard Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility and a runway of over three kilometres, which could accommodate larger aircraft.

With the facilities available at the airport, there is no reason why Uyo airport should not be designated as an international airport to process international passengers.

We are here today with all relevant government agencies, including the customs, NiMet, FAAN, NCAA and others, to set up a joint team that would commence the process of transitioning from local operations to international operations.

What we want to tell you today is that we are designating Uyo airport as an international airport. What is left is to tick the boxes and set a date for operations to begin, Mr Keyamo said.

He said a team of relevant agencies would assess the facilities and tick the boxes for what was available and what would be needed for the airport to become a fully international airport.

Responding, Governor Eno, who appreciated the federal governments and the ministers approval, stated that the airport was well-equipped for international operations.

He further stated that the Akwa Ibom State Government would construct a cargo terminal and residential buildings for the airport staff members.

What we are building is an ecosystem at the airport. We want everything within the airport environment. We will build a cargo terminal, which is already captured in the 2026 budget.

We will also ensure the 100 units of houses under construction are used to ensure the proper settling down of workers at the airport.

My target is that by the end of the first quarter of 2026, the first international plane will take off from Uyo, he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Victor Attah International Airport, formerly known as Akwa Ibom International Airport, is situated near Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom.

It was first opened in 2009, expanded to handle large aircraft, and served as a regional hub to showcase the areas culture and infrastructure. The facility was renamed in 2018 to honour Mr Attah, a former governor of the state.

The airport is home to Ibom Air, a commercial airline owned by the Akwa Ibom State Government.
The Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) has awarded 13 journalists across West Africa for its 2025 Excellence in Journalism Awards.

The award ceremony took place at the Abuja Continental Hotel, Abuja, on 26 November, as part of the annual Media and Development conference organised by the centre.

This years award, which is the second edition, recognised exceptional contributions to journalism, fact-checking, media innovation, and community-centred reporting across West Africa.

The centre received 275 entries from journalists across West Africa, which it screened down to 35 stories. An independent panel of six judges reviewed the 35 stories for further evaluation, and 13 finalists were subsequently announced.

Ajibola Amzat, who is the Africa Editor, Centre for Collaborative Investigative Journalism (CCIJ), delivered the judges comments.

Mr Amzat revealed that all entries received under the categories: Sexual and Gender Based-Violence (SGBV) reporting, climate change and environment reporting, social accountability reporting, health reporting, community reporting, and Solutions reporting, were judged based on accuracy and fairness, storytelling, depth of research, innovation, public significance and adherence to ethical standards.

For the fact-check category, he noted that the criteria slightly differed to include evidence and justification, public interest, and writing clarity and structure.

The criteria used for each of the categories were first, accuracy and fairness, and then we also looked at the originality of the work and innovations displayed by the reporter. We also considered the depth of research. The storytelling and the writing quality of the copies. Finally, we looked at the impact and the public significance of the story submitted and the adherence to ethical standards.

For fact-checking categories, we adopted different kinds of criteria. We looked at evidence and justification, we looked at public interests and significance, the depth of research, writing clarity and structure. Those are the criteria we use for the fact checks. So they are not exactly the same criteria we use for the other kind of stories in different categories.

The awardees

For the SGBV category, Sodeeq Atanda of Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) won with his two-part story titled EXCLUSIVE: How FUOYE VC Abayomi Fasina Pressed Married Colleague for Sexual Relationship Against Her Will. Hauwa Nuhu from HumAngle Media emerged as the runner-up with her report titled A Tragic Femicide Case in Northeastern Nigeria Smells Like Honour Killing.

For the Social Accountability category, Evans Aziamor-Mensah of the Fourth Estate won with his report titled Free Wi-Fi: Government pays service provider GHS56m for no internet in schools. Taiwo Adebulu of The Cable emerged as the runner-up of this category with his report titled, INVESTIGATION: Despite environmental risks, Nigerian governors converting conservation centres into luxury estates.

For the Health category, Abdulwaheed Sofiullahi from HumAngle Media won with his report titled Amid Deforestation Scourge, Vanishing Herbal Plants Pose Health Crisis in Southwestern Nigeria. Sodiq Ojuroungbe of The Punch emerged as the runner-up in this category with his report titled How obsolete facilities turn Kogi federal hospital to death house.

For Community Reporting, Philip Agbove and Justice Baidoo from The Fourth Estate won with their report titled Death and brutality: The battle for West Africas largest salt deposit. Muslim Yusuf, of Daily Trust, emerged as the runner-up for this category for his investigation titled Inside Abujas Drug Problem.

For the Solution Journalism category, Alfred Ajayi of Radio Nigeria won with his report titled Anambra free maternal care policy sparks hope despite challenges. Mahdi Garba of Nigeria Health Watch emerged as the runner-up with his report titled Lafiya Sisters Expand Contraceptive Access for Women in Hard-to-Reach Jigawa Communities.

For the fact-check category, Kwaku Asante of Fact-Check Ghana won with his fact-check titled Influence and Deception: How pro-NPP firm flaunting UK connection produced polls favouring Bawumia. Ifeyinwa Francis of the Centre for Storytelling and Development Initiative emerged as the runner-up with her fact-check titled False Endorsement, Fake Urgency Used to Sell Unproven Prostatitis Drug.

While there was no winner or runner-up in the climate change category, Victor Jones of Africa Young Voices Media Empire (AYV) received an honourable mention for his report on carbon emissions in Freetown.

Mr Amzat revealed that the judges could not award anyone in the Climate Change category because most of the submissions did not address the issue of climate change, and the articles did not meet the standard set by the panel.

The Editor of the Year, which was initially introduced, was not handed out this year.

Mr Amzat said the criteria made it impossible for the panel to determine a winner in the editors category fairly. He noted the committee had presented their recommendations to CJID, and the category would be reintroduced next year.
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has commended enforcement actions on 1,095 property titles in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) that were revoked over non-payment of Ground Rent, Certificate of Occupancy (C-OF-O) bill, Penalty/Violation fee and Land Use Conversion fee.

The 1,095 are property titles in Asokoro, Maitama, Garki and Wuse districts of the Federal Capital City (FCC).

This was contained in a statement by Lere Olayinka, senior special assistant, public communications and social media to the FCT Minister, on Friday.

Mr Olayinka said the owners had ignored a series of public notices, issued from May to November this year by the FCTA in national dailies, online platforms, and television stations, requesting defaulters to settle their financial obligations or risk losing their titles.

The public notice issued on Friday by the FCTA was titled: Commencement of enforcement actions on defaulters of Ground Rent payments, Land Use Conversion Fee, C-of-O bills.

It reads, The general public particularly holders of property in the FCT are hereby notified that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), His Excellency, Barr. Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, CON, has approved he commencement of enforcement actions on a total of 1,095 properties in the Federal Capital City (FCC) for defaulting in various payments.

Despite the several publications/public notices made by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) in some national dailies, online platforms and television stations requesting defaulters to settle their financial obligations/liabilities to the FCTA namely  Ground Rent, Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) Bill, Penalty/Violation Fee, and Land Use Conversion Fee, the underlisted property holders have failed to comply. This contravenes the provisions of Section 28, Subsections 5(a) and (b) of the Land Use Act and also the terms and conditions of the grant of the respective Rights of Occupancy.

Following the expiration of the final grace period of fourteen (14) calendar days on Tuesday, the 25th of November 2025, the FCT Administration will carry out enforcement actions on the 835 properties for defaulting in payment of Ground Rent and 260 properties for defaulting in payment of Violation Fee and Land Use Conversion Fee.

Mr Olayinka did not list the names of the defaulters.

Earlier warnings

On Monday, the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, warned ground rent defaulters in the territory that there would be no further extension on the payment deadline.

A few days earlier, PREMIUM TIMES reported that the FCTA would commence fresh enforcement actions on Wednesday, 26 November, against defaulters of ground rent, land use change, and conversion fees, as well as right-of-occupancy and certificate-of-occupancy bills.

The administration noted that the two-week and the presidential grace periods granted defaulters four months ago had long elapsed, stressing that it would be the last opportunity for defaulters to pay.

Previous action

In May, this newspaper also reported that the FCTA sealed some of the 4,792 institutions whose properties were affected by the non-payment of ground rent, including the PDP national secretariat in Zone 5, Wuse District.

Other organisations earlier on the list of defaulters included the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), CONOIL Plc, Borno State Government, Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), National University Commission (NUC), M.R.S Investment Company Limited (owners of MRS Petrol Stations) and Kaduna State Government.

The Nigerian Port Authority (NPA), News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Federal Ministry of Environment, Nigerian Security Printing and Minting Company, University of Calabar, Nigerian Postal Service and Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) were also among the defaulters.

It is unclear whether some of them have made the payment.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has invited the immediate past Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, for questioning.

Mr Malami, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), confirmed the development in a Facebook post on Friday, promising to honour the invitation.

I am informing my family and friends that EFCC has invited me to clarify on some issues, and as a citizen of law and order and patriot, I am willing to honour this invitation without any hesitation, Mr Malami wrote.

He continued, I believe in the importance of honesty, integrity and honesty in leadership; these are principles Ive long supported and upheld over the years Ive spent in public service. On this note, I am informing Nigerians of any development that will follow, so that everyone will be aware of what is going to go back to because of his current life and history.

According to Channels Television, EFCCs invitation to the former minister was conveyed to him in a letter dated 24 November and signed by Sunday Ofen-Imu on behalf of the commissions chairman, Ola Olukoyede.

The agency scheduled the interview for Friday (today).

The Commission is investigating a case which the need to obtain certain information from you becomes imperative, the letter read.

The meeting is to be held at the EFCC Headquarters, Institution and Research District, Jabi, Abuja.

In view of the above, you are requested to kindly attend an interview with the undersigned through the Head, Special Duty Committee-3. This request is made pursuant to Section 38(1) and (2) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (Establishment) Act, 2024. Your cooperation in this regard is highly solicited, please, the statement added.

The EFCC did not disclose the specific allegations or issues for which Mr Malami was invited.

Malami responds

In a separate statement on Friday, Mr Malami confirmed he had received the letter and reiterated his readiness to cooperate fully with investigators.

This is to confirm that I have been invited by the EFCC. As a law-abiding and patriotic citizen, I hereby reaffirm my commitment to honour the invitation, he said.

He added that accountability and transparency remained core values of his public service career.

I understand the spirit of accountability and transparency in public service  the principles that I both advocate and champion. Rooted in public service and in the spirit of transparency and accountability, I am committed to sharing with the Nigerian public the developments as they unfold.

Mr Malami served as AGF under former President Muhammadu Buhari.
The Court of Appeal in Abuja, on Friday, struck out the appeal filed by Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

A three-member panel of justices, in a unanimous judgement, held that the appeal lacked merit and had become academic following the Biafra agitators conviction for terrorism offences.

The appeal is not the same as the one his legal team has vowed to file to challenge his recent conviction by the Federal High Court.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Federal High Court in Abuja, on 20 November, convicted and sentenced the IPOB leader to life imprisonment for acts of terrorism.

Mr Kanu, whose trial lasted for 10 years, although interrupted for almost four years after he fled the country in 2017, was prosecuted for his violence inciting campaigns for the breakaway of Nigerias South-east and neighbouring region as an independent Biafra nation.

Mr Kanu, who was rearrested in Kenya and brought back to Nigeria to continue his trial in June 2021, attended his trial from the SSS custody in Abuja.

Mr Kanu had claimed in his rights enforcement action that his fundamental rights to human dignity, right to quality healthcare and religion were breached by his continued detention in the facility of the SSS.

He prayed the appellate court to upturn the judgement of the Federal High Court in Abuja delivered by retired judge Taiwo Taiwo on 3 July 2022, which dismissed his suit against the Director General of the SSS and the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), on the grounds that he failed to prove his case.

The convicted IPOB leader had named the DG of the SSS and the AGF as the respondents.

Delivering the lead judgement of the Court of Appeal on Friday, Boloukuromo Ugo held that the appeal was no longer feasible since his conviction, life imprisonment sentence and remand in prison correctional centre.

Mr Ugo held that the substance of the case had become academic because, since Mr Kanus lawyer, Maxwell Opara, confirmed at the proceedings on Friday, that his client was being held in Sokoto Correctional Centre, the court could no longer order him to be moved to Kuje Correctional Centre to which he had sought to be relocated from the SSS custody.

Mr Ugo further held that, having earlier exhibited preference for prison custody, the court could no longer grant his prayers since he had been convicted and sent to the correctional centre where he had wanted to be kept.

(NAN)
Troops of the Nigerian Army neutralised dozens of terrorists, apprehended 57 suspects, and rescued 45 kidnapped victims across the country in one week.

The Director of Defence Media Operations, Michael Onoja, a major general, made this known on Friday in Abuja, while giving an update on nationwide military operations within the week.

Mr Onoja said the troops also recovered large caches of arms, vehicles, and ammunition while dismantling criminal and terrorist networks in multiple theatres of operation.

In the North-east, he said that troops of Operation HADIN KAI killed several terrorists, apprehended 11 collaborators, rescued eight kidnapped commuters, and destroyed multiple terrorist camps.

He added that air interdiction missions in Sambisa neutralised additional terrorists and destroyed their storage facilities.

Under Operation FASAN YAMMA, Mr Onoja said the troops killed several terrorists and bandits, apprehended 15 suspects, and rescued 13 kidnapped victims across Zamfara, Kebbi, Sokoto, Katsina, Kaduna, and Niger States.

He added that troops also recovered weapons, vehicles, livestock, and intercepted a suspected terrorist arms dealer with N4 million in cash and military-grade weapons.

In the North-central, Mr Onoja said the troops of Operations ENDURING PEACE and WHIRL STROKE killed scores of extremists, apprehended 11 suspects, including notorious terrorist Umar Idi (aka Lere).

He added that 19 kidnapped victims were rescued, alongside the recovery of weapons, vehicles, and illicit funds.

The defence spokesperson said the troops of DELTA SAFE foiled oil theft worth over N173 million, destroyed 11 illegal refining sites, and arrested 13 criminals.

In the South-east, he said the troops of Operation UDO KA rescued five kidnapped victims, arrested seven criminals, and eliminated terrorists safe havens in Enugu State through coordinated air strikes.

He commended the troops for their courage and professionalism, urging continued public support and intelligence sharing.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the military to protecting lives, properties, and national sovereignty until peace is fully restored nationwide.

(NAN)
The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, have announced a joint commitment to build an integrated and inclusive digital education ecosystem in the country.

They made the commitment during a special panel session at the Nigeria National EdTech Strategy (Mid-Term Co-creation Workshop) on Friday in Abuja, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation and the World Bank Group.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the initiative aims to transform teaching and learning nationwide through a coordinated and technology-driven education ecosystem.

Speaking on the urgency of transforming Nigerias education sector, Mr Alausa said the country could not continue to deliver knowledge through outdated frameworks while preparing children for a digital global economy.

Doing nothing, or doing what we did before, is a total failure.

We must embrace technology in how we deliver content to students, how we train teachers, how classrooms operate and how learning materials are accessed, he said.

The minister announced that hundreds of smart schools and digital teaching platforms were already being deployed, adding that within the next four months, every classroom in federal government-owned secondary schools would be equipped with a smart board.

He explained that this would include full internet access embedded as part of the infrastructure.

Mr Alausa acknowledged that many teachers could not afford data to access digital content and said the government was working on zero-rated data access to ensure teachers could log into digital training platforms at no cost.

He added that a structured compensation mechanism would begin in January to reward teachers who engaged in verified online professional development training.

According to him, teacher-facing platforms have been completely restructured to support competence building, reskilling, and upskilling.

Its not just about installing smart boards or building innovation labs; there must be systems that make them work, remain functional, and deliver results, he said.

He further disclosed that Nigeria was implementing online, real-time subject instruction for junior secondary students using master teachers to provide interactive virtual lessons accessible to both public and private schools.

Additionally, Mr Tijani emphasised that modern economies cannot expand without a digitally empowered education system, noting that no sector in Nigeria has ever succeeded by working in isolation.

He cited Nigerias financial sector as an example of successful and collaborative digital reform.

Nigeria has the best inter-bank settlement infrastructure in Africa because banks built an interoperable system.

Thats why your money moves from Bank A to Bank B in seconds. Education needs the same approach, he said.

On digital inclusion for remote and underserved communities, Mr Tijani announced major upcoming infrastructure investments.

He revealed that the government would install 4,000 telecommunications towers in rural regions, targeting more than 20 million Nigerians currently without connectivity.

He added that these towers would be linked to a nationwide fibre-optic backbone, reducing data costs and increasing connection speeds.

Whether in Makoko or Borno IDP camps or remote villages in Kebbi, every child must have access to quality digital learning content. Connectivity must become a national infrastructure, not a luxury, he said.

READ ALSO; Katsina pupils learn in collapsed classrooms despite billions spent on education

The minister also disclosed ongoing negotiations to reduce the cost of smart devices, including considerations for local manufacturing supported by Nigerias lithium deposits for battery production.

The workshop is expected to produce an actionable blueprint for EdTech interoperability, teacher training, digital inclusion and real-time content delivery across Nigeria.

Both ministers emphasised that the initiative would not end as another impressive document but would lead to measurable and irreversible transformation in how Nigerian children learned.

(NAN)
Africa cannot afford to miss this opportunity. Tropical forests provide the continent with unmatched climate, ecological, and economic value. The TFFF offers the financial tools to reward African nations for the global service which our forests provide, while empowering local communities, strengthening governance, and advancing climate leadership.

COP30 has been hailed as the Nature COP, with forests taking centre stage in global climate diplomacy in a way we have not seen in decades. Brazil, as host, deliberately elevated forest protection to a defining pillar of global climate ambition. At the forefront of this shift is the Tropical Forest Forever Facility (TFFF), a transformative financing mechanism that could reshape forest conservation across Africa.

For African nations with significant tropical forests  from the Congo Basin to West Africa  TFFF offers a historic opportunity to secure predictable, long-term revenue for protecting one of the continents most valuable assets.

A Game-Changing Model for Forest Finance

For decades, African forest nations have been asked to conserve forests for the global good, yet financing has been unpredictable, short-term, and insufficient. The TFFF changes this paradigm. With a $125 billion global investment fund, the facility uses its annual returns to reward countries for maintaining and expanding tropical forests.

Payments are tied to standing forest cover, not just promises, creating a direct incentive to conserve and restore forests over decades. Critically, 20 per cent of all funds are reserved for indigenous peoples and local communities, ensuring that those who have safeguarded Africas forests for generations benefit directly.

Africas Forest Potential

Africa is home to the Congo Basin, the worlds second-largest rainforest, spanning the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Republic of Congo, Gabon, Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, and the Central African Republic. Together, these forests absorb over 1.2 billion tonnes of CO annually, making them critical for global climate stability.

TFFFs dedicated 20 per cent allocation for local communities represents a paradigm shift: for the first time, indigenous peoples and forest-edge communities receive direct, predictable benefits. These funds can support alternative livelihoods, payments for ecosystem services, sustainable agriculture, and community-led restoration, ensuring that conservation aligns with social development.

West Africa is also forest-rich. Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Cote dIvoire contain remaining blocks of the Upper Guinean Forest, which are biodiversity hotspots and carbon-rich landscapes. In East Africa, Madagascar and Tanzania host forests vital for biodiversity and water security.

The TFFF provides a financial lifeline for these countries. Early projections suggest that African forest nations could collectively earn hundreds of millions of dollars annually, based on performance. For the DRC and Gabon, the returns could reach several hundreds of millions of dollars, while West African nations like Ghana and Liberia could see tens of millions per year, enabling scaled restoration and community projects.

Empowering Communities and Promoting Equity

African forests are home to more than 80 million people whose livelihoods depend directly on forest ecosystems. Historically, many of these communities have borne the cost of conservation without adequate compensation.

TFFFs dedicated 20 per cent allocation for local communities represents a paradigm shift: for the first time, indigenous peoples and forest-edge communities receive direct, predictable benefits. These funds can support alternative livelihoods, payments for ecosystem services, sustainable agriculture, and community-led restoration, ensuring that conservation aligns with social development.

COP30: Political Momentum for Africa

The TFFF was formally launched at COP30 with more than $5.5 billion in initial pledges from Brazil, Indonesia, Norway, France, the Netherlands, and Portugal, backed politically by over 50 countries. Complementing this, the Forest and Climate Leaders Partnership (FCLP), which I co-chaired with former US Secretary of State John Kerry from 2022-2024, outlined a global roadmap estimating $36 billion annually would be needed to close the tropical forest finance gap.

The forest finance revolution has begun. We, Africa, must lead it, shape the rules, secure a fair and equitable share of resources, and ensure that the our forests, and the people who protect them, finally receive their rightful value.

Norways $3 billion, 10-year pledge, the largest public contributor demonstrates, that the world is finally ready to commit meaningful resources to forest conservation. These are resources Africa can access to enhance and uplift the lives and livelihoods of its forest and indigenous communities, if it positions itself strategically.

Africas Strategic Role

African nations must take a leadership role in shaping the TFFF. By actively participating in governance, monitoring, and implementation frameworks, we, Africans, can ensure equitable access and impactful use of these funds.

Early adopters like Ghana and Gabon have already demonstrated their capacity through high-integrity REDD+ programmes and forest restoration initiatives. Other forest nations can follow suit, creating a continental network of countries that protect forests while generating sustainable finance. (REDD+ stands for Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation. Its a UN-led framework designed to create financial incentives for developing countries to protect their forests and reduce emissions from deforestation. The + symbol covers activities such as conservation and sustainable forest management, and enhancing forest carbon stocks.)

A Continental Call to Action

Africa cannot afford to miss this opportunity. Tropical forests provide the continent with unmatched climate, ecological, and economic value. The TFFF offers the financial tools to reward African nations for the global service which our forests provide, while empowering local communities, strengthening governance, and advancing climate leadership.

The forest finance revolution has begun. We, Africa, must lead it, shape the rules, secure a fair and equitable share of resources, and ensure that the our forests, and the people who protect them, finally receive their rightful value.

Samuel A. Jinapor, the Global Lead, Africa Centre for Nature-based Climate Action, is a former co-chair, Forest and Climate Leaders Partnership (FCLP), and former minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Republic of Ghana.
News / National

by Staff reporter

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has denied any involvement with the Southern African Regional Anti-Corruption Organisation (SARACO) in the recent arrest of five police officers on corruption charges.National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi clarified that the operation was conducted solely by ZRP's internal mechanisms. "The Zimbabwe Republic Police dismisses claims by SARACO and subsequent social media postings alleging that they worked together with ZRP's Internal Investigations Section to conduct a sting operation which resulted in the arrest of five members for corruption," said Comm Nyathi.He further emphasised that any anti-corruption organisation must be cleared by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) before undertaking operations in the country. "For the record, the Zimbabwe Republic Police effected the purported arrests without the involvement of SARACO," he added.The statement underscores ZRP's commitment to handling internal disciplinary and corruption matters through its established legal and investigative frameworks.
A trend analysis of where Arewa is headed in the next 25 years  2050  will reveal a clear pathway to ANNIHILATION. There is no soft way of describing the outcome we are currently chasing. Every day, we are warmed that to survive as a people, we must change our ways and move away from the massive level of public corruption and self-aggrandisement that makes it virtually impossible for governments to do their work of producing public goods for the people

Last week, I made a presentation on the above topic at the Arewa Consultative Forums 25th Anniversary Celebrations in Kaduna. I accepted the challenge because the formulation of the topic was an indication that there is a new interest in trend analysis or futures studies within the leadership of this organisation. This is an interdisciplinary field that systematically explores and analyses possible, deplorable, probable, and/or preferable futures to inform decision-making today.

A trend analysis of where Arewa is headed in the next 25 years  2050  will reveal a clear pathway to ANNIHILATION. There is no soft way of describing the outcome we are currently chasing. Every day, we are warmed that to survive as a people, we must change our ways and move away from the massive level of public corruption and self-aggrandisement that makes it virtually impossible for governments to do their work of producing public goods for the people  security, welfare, good health, infrastructure and so on. The simple message from trend analysis is that we must change, we must improve governance, or perish.

My trend analysis for the next decade is as follows; I am not sufficiently bold to talk of 25 years:

1) The Arewa Consultative Forum would be unable to organise another big event similar to this 2025 bash because their leaders would be too scared of abductions and random killings to travel from their base to Kaduna. In desperation, ACF may change its standing rules to meet in Abuja, and if that is not possible, in Dubai, where many of them will be based.

2) The struggles for the emancipation of Biafra, Niger Delta and Oduduwa Republics from the exploding Federal Republic of Nigeria, would have reached an advanced stage and the international community would gleefully line up, supporting one side or the other, thankful that their dream of 1967 is coming to pass.

3) Arewa would discover with shock and dismay that there is no unified Republic emerging in the North, as its constituent zones of the Caliphate, Borno, Middle Belt and the majority, i.e. the others, realise that they have no interest in a marriage of convenience and no capacity or will for independent existence.

4) The winners, to our collective shock, will be the six million private citizens who have procured small arms and light weapons and are using them to rob their neighbours, kill men, sexually assault women, stop farming and promote starvation, while turning this beautiful homeland into hell.

Nigeria can and must address the security challenges it faces by providing the leadership for the security forces to be properly equipped and encouraged to do its work. It is still possible to promote national cohesion and social inclusion by ensuring a fair distribution of socio-economic amenities across the states. The government needs to set up a national social protection programme to support the poorest and most vulnerable, towards reducing poverty and inequality.

This is what projections from trend analysis are telling us as things stand today. In other words, it is the worst-case scenario. The purpose of trend analysis, however, is to ensure that the worst case does not happen. That preventive measures are taken to ensure that much better outcomes emerge.

Nigerias population is forecast to increase to over 450 million by 2050, by which time it will be the third most populous country in the world. Although Nigeria has great agricultural potential, the sector is unable to meet the nutritional demands of a rapidly growing population. Nigeria has made little progress in export diversification. The country remains a rentier economy but, currently, even that is lost as a significant portion of the petroleum produced is stolen and sold by private, government, and security cabals that have become pipeline bandits. Macroeconomic instability, a skills shortage, an unfriendly business environment, and infrastructure deficits constrain productivity and growth in the non-oil sector. The situation is bad. Nonetheless, with aggressive but reasonable policy interventions, Arewa could have a significantly brighter future if we have a leadership with vision and competence.

Nigeria can and must address the security challenges it faces by providing the leadership for the security forces to be properly equipped and encouraged to do its work. It is still possible to promote national cohesion and social inclusion by ensuring a fair distribution of socio-economic amenities across the states. The government needs to set up a national social protection programme to support the poorest and most vulnerable, towards reducing poverty and inequality. Also, there is the necessity of intensifying the struggle against corruption, improving public financial management and domestic revenue mobilisation, by accelerating digitalisation to enhance tax efficiency, and addressing the infrastructure gap by creating an enabling environment for public-private-partnerships in infrastructure development.

Public trust in the Nigerian State project has collapsed and the countrys political settlement, which has been based on diverting public resources for the benefit of regional elite coalitions, is imploding under the impulsion of debilitating poverty in the North, the youth bulge, and the rising agency of the precariat. The result is the massive rise of insecurity and the youth procurement and use of small arms and light weapons to extract their own share of the famous national cake.

Poverty in Nigeria is not evenly spread. The number of people living in poverty in the Northern region has been increasing since 2011, and in 2016 it represented 87 per cent of all poor in Nigeria. In contrast, the South is achieving greater progress, with around 12 per cent of its population living in poverty in 2016. In general, inequality has increased in recent years, as indicated by the Gini coefficient increase from 0.36 to 0.42 between 2011 and 2016  a situation that fuels instability and conflicts, which is a strong concern.

The most important contemporary problem for Nigeria is the lack of opportunities for the youth. We have developed a huge youth bulge that has been growing rapidly. This is happening at a time when formal opportunities for employment are declining and having a job has become a minority experience. The North is the most affected region in the country in this regard. The North, especially the North-East and North-West, is the most backward region of Nigeria in all the social sectors. It has the highest birth rate in the contemporary world, the lowest level of economic development, the least access to education, and the poorest network of health facilities and staff. The population of the North is growing at a higher rate than the rest of the country, thereby the deepening poverty rate. There is a very large proportion of Northern youths who are not in school, not in the family house, and not in regular paid employment. They live precarious lives in urban centres doing menial daily-paid jobs and are engaged in the informal sector. Living in the cities, these marginalised youth who are often glued to the social media, know about the massive wealth being enjoyed by a few and the conspicuous consumption of the obscene ruling class. They feel marginalised, are often angry, and feel completely abandoned by society. They are a precariat ready for violence and their time has come.

In his classic lecture on leadership qualities, Mutumin Kirki: The Concept of the Good Man in Hausa Society, Anthony Kirk-Greene defined the attributes that people seek in good leaders. They are truthfulness, compassion, integrity, trust, and generosity to those in need. Wealth and material success were not considered important attributes in the selection of leaders. Today, those who can provide the biggest bribes to the biggest number of people emerge as our leaders

One of the most important variables in determining the advancement or retardation of a people is the quality of the leadership they have. Leaders can inspire and mobilise the people towards progress or the opposite. They can promote unity and show the necessary direction of travel to lead to progress or create conditions for the disintegration and decomposition of the nation. The general impression amongst Nigerians is that leadership is about enjoyment, ceremonies, pomp and pageantry, living the high life in government house, moving around in comfortable jets and having direct access to monies in the public treasury. The reality, however, is that leadership is hard work. It requires loads of self-discipline and sacrifice to achieve set objectives.

In his classic lecture on leadership qualities, Mutumin Kirki: The Concept of the Good Man in Hausa Society, Anthony Kirk-Greene defined the attributes that people seek in good leaders. They are truthfulness, compassion, integrity, trust, and generosity to those in need. Wealth and material success were not considered important attributes in the selection of leaders. Today, those who can provide the biggest bribes to the biggest number of people emerge as our leaders, and this culture must change. We must develop an overwhelming consensus that political leadership cannot remain the only job for which no qualification appears necessary, except to have a lot of money, which is usually stolen money. The following criteria are proposed to guide citizens as they set out to nominate and elect their next set of political leaders

Only people of proven integrity should be considered for leadership. People know who are the persons of good character in their communities, and it is necessary that before party primaries, widespread discussions are held to identify people with integrity to be considered for positions.

Leadership requires people with competence and a vision of what they want to achieve for their society. There has to be minimum education standards  a degree or higher national diploma. Finally, age and good health are key factors. People over seventy years should be gently but firmly shoved out of the political arena because they are unlikely to have the energy for the enormous work involved in running such a large and complex region.

Finally, the success of governance requires respect and the knowledge of how democracies work. The good profile for a democratic player includes respect for due process and the rule of law. Even more important is the disposition to be always ready to promote the participation of members  community, political party, assembly etc. In order words, people with an ingrained civic culture.

A professor of Political Science and development consultant/expert, Jibrin Ibrahim is a Senior Fellow of the Centre for Democracy and Development, and Chair of the Editorial Board of PREMIUM TIMES.
Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, has been honoured with the prestigious Champion of Green Governance award by the Forestry Association of Nigeria, a recognition widely seen as a national endorsement of his administrations far-reaching environmental reforms. The award was presented on Tuesday 25 November, at a ceremony attended by policymakers, environmental experts, development partners, and top government officials from across the federation.

Speaking on behalf of the Governor, the Special Adviser on Climate Change, Alamin Muhammed, said Governor Radda was deeply humbled by the recognition. According to him, the honour is a validation of Katsina States collective resolve to build a greener, more resilient and more prosperous future.

Mr Alamin, a professor noted that when Governor Radda assumed office, the state faced the harsh realities of desertification, land degradation, water scarcity and rising temperatures across the Sahel. We refused to respond with despair, he said. Instead, we responded with vision. He explained that this vision birthed the Katsina State Green Growth Agenda (KAGGA)a comprehensive framework focused on climate-smart agriculture, renewable energy expansion, green industrialisation, and resilient water and infrastructure systems.

He highlighted major milestones achieved under the Radda administration, including the allocation of 30% of the states annual budget to climate-resilient initiatives, the creation of a 50 billion Green Investment Fund, and the ambitious target of mobilising 150 billion for the states emerging carbon economy. He further pointed to ongoing reforestation efforts such as the planting of over 100,000 economic trees, the nurturing of three million seedlings, and Katsinas commitment to planting 10 million trees by 2030 under the Great Green Wall initiative.

Every tree we plant is a statement of hope for the next generation, the governors representative emphasised. Key community-based programmesincluding A Tree for Every Child, the reintroduction of forest guards, and strengthened conservation systemsare, according to him, laying the groundwork for long-term environmental stability.

Reaffirming Mr Raddas commitment to water and infrastructure security, Governor Radda disclosed that the state has constructed 120 solar-powered boreholes, with 60 more underway, alongside investments in rainwater harvesting, rehabilitation of major dams, and the deployment of solar-powered pumps, tillers, tractors and machinery to support climate-resilient agriculture across the 34 LGAs.

He added that Katsinas green transformation agenda extends to rural electrification through solar mini-grids, the establishment of a Solar Industrial Park in partnership with Genesis Energy, and a Waste-to-Wealth programme that will convert plastic waste into eco-friendly products while creating opportunities for thousands of young entrepreneurs.

Our green economy is becoming a source of jobs, innovation and dignity, he said. He expressed Governor Raddas gratitude to the Forestry Association of Nigeria for recognising Katsinas bold and strategic reforms, and acknowledged past award recipients whose work continues to inspire new possibilities.

Governor Radda dedicated the award to the people of Katsina State, assuring them that the journey toward a fully sustainable and climate-resilient Katsina has only just begun. Those in attendance included the SSA on Climate Change, Suleiman S Ribadu; the Director of the Forestry Department, Ministry of Environment, Saminu Soli; and the immediate past Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Muntari Kado.
Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has officially defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), signaling a major realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Mr El-Rufai, a political heavyweight and former stalwart of the All Progressives Congress (APC), formalised his move on Thursday when he registered and collected his membership card of the ADC at his Unguwar Sarki ward in Kaduna.

He was accompanied by political associates and former appointees who served under him as governor of Kaduna State.

The ADC vice chairperson in charge of Northwest, Jafaru Sani, and the National Membership Secretary, Sadiq Yaradua, were also in his entourage.

Journey through SDP, ADC

Mr El-Rufai said he chose to join the ADC after the Social Democratic Party (SDP) failed to agree to the terms and conditions of the opposition coalition leadership, alleging the leadership of the SDP had been compromised.

Im a bona fide member of the African Democratic Congress, he boasted after obtaining the membership card.

The SDP would not agree to open up to the coalition leadership because the government has bribed and compromised some of the leaders. However, the ADC agreed to the terms and conditions of the coalition leadership, Mr. El-Rufai stated at a brief ceremony at the Unguwar Sarki ward.

He expressed gratitude to the organisers for arranging the event on short notice, saying that, I was informed at 6 p.m. yesterday (Wednesday) to be here at 4 oclock, and I managed to get here.

I want to call on all citizens of Kaduna State, 18 years and above, to come out en masse and register with the African Democratic Congress.

By the grace of God, we are going to repeat what we did in 2015, when we got rid of the incompetent, thieving, stealing, and corrupt PDP administration, he alleged.

Mr. El-Rufai received membership number 000002, following the coalition Vice National Chairman North West, who was assigned 000001 as the first to register in the state.

READ ALSO:Atiku officially joins ADC ahead of 2027 elections

El-Rufais political journey

He rose to national prominence under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the Director-General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) and later as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) under President Olusegun Obasanjo.

He later actively participated in the formation of the APC in 2013, dubbed a political merger, the platform that unseated the incumbent president, Goodluck Jonathan, in 2015.

Following the controversial rejection of his ministerial nomination by the Senate, his move from the ruling APC to the ADC marks his latest pivot, suggesting a determination to remain a key player in the 2027 political landscape, likely as a kingmaker or challenger.
YICHANG, China, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Angel Yeast (SH600298), a global leader in yeast and fermentation solutions, has begun trial production at its new specialty yeast project in the Baiyang Biotechnology Park, Yichang Hightech Zone. The facility commenced material feeding on August 31 and, once fully ramped, will reach an annual capacity of 8,500 tons. This launch completes Angel Yeast's full-chain layout in specialty yeastfrom R&D and pilotscale production to scaled manufacturingenhancing supply of high-value yeastderived ingredients for craft brewing, wine, and bioenergy, and strengthening the biomanufacturing value chain.

Angel Yeasts 8,500-Ton Specialty Yeast Facility Comes Online Angel Yeast Commissions Brewing Functional Microorganism Pilot Test Platform

"The microbiological standard for specialty yeast is at the ten-thousand level, meaning significantly fewer contaminants. Filtered air enters pressurized feeding tanks to maintain positive pressure, ensuring nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and other nutrients remain in a highly sterile storage environment," said Qin Benguo, Assistant Director of Specialty Yeast Production at Angel Yeast's Yichang Hightech subsidiary.

Core lines feature full-process automation from feeding and fermentation to packaging and storage, supporting stable, reproducible quality at scale.

With broader application scope than conventional baker's yeast, Angel's specialty yeast targets high-value segments: craft beer, wine and other alcoholic beverages, fuel ethanol, and biomass energy. By delivering stable, premium raw materials at scale, the new capacity will help brewers and bioenergy producers improve yields, enhance process stability, and advance flavor and performance consistencykey for accelerating product innovation and market expansion.

Angel Yeast Commissions Brewing Functional Microorganism Pilot Test Platform

Complementing the new production line, Angel Yeast has also commissioned its Brewing Functional Microorganism Pilot Test Platform, designed to bridge lab discoveries and industrialscale validation. The platform simulates real-world brewery environments, addressing the limitations of on-line trialssuch as inconsistent operator practices and imprecise timingby delivering reproducible, data-driven results under factory-like conditions. Equipped with real-time monitoring, it tracks microbial dynamics and flavor compound evolution, enabling precise quality assessment, faster R&D iteration, and optimized technical schemes for partners.

"Equipped with realtime monitoring systems, the platform allows us to track microbial dynamics and flavor compound evolution in a controlled, factory-like setting," said Luo Xinjie, Director of Brewing Technical Support at Angel Yeast's Food & Fermentation Business Unit. "This enables us to assess product quality with unprecedented precision, refine R&D directions, and optimize technical schemes for our partners."

In the baijiu sector alone, Angel's solutions have already helped boost yield, enhance fermentation stability, and enable precise flavor control. With the pilot platform, the cycle from R&D to industrial application can be significantly shortened, allowing breweries to access tailored, validated solutions fasterreducing timetomarket and improving operational efficiency.

Together, the 8,500ton specialty yeast facility and the Brewing Functional Microorganism Pilot Platform form a powerful engine for global biomanufacturing and brewing innovation. As Angel Yeast expands its capabilitiesfrom clean, automated specialty yeast production to translational pilot testingthe company is poised to deliver more functional, sustainable solutions and inject fresh momentum into biobased products worldwide.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2834157/2.jpg

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2834156/1.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1586948/angel_logo_Logo.jpg
NEW YORK, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ --

Why: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, announces a class action lawsuit on behalf of purchasers of securities of Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc. (NYSE: ARE) between January 27, 2025 and October 27, 2025, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"). A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than January 26, 2026.

So what: If you purchased Alexandria Real Estate Equities securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.

What to do next: To join the Alexandria Real Estate Equities class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=48531 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than January 26, 2026. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.

Why Rosen Law: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm achieved, at that time, the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.

Details of the case: According to the lawsuit, defendants provided investors with material information concerning Alexandria Real Estate's expected revenue and funds from operations ("FFO") growth for the 2025 fiscal year, particularly as it related to the growth of Alexandria Real Estate's real estate operations. The defendants' statements included, among other things, confidence in Alexandria Real Estate Equities' lease activity, occupancy stability, and ability to develop its tenant pipeline.

According to the lawsuit, defendants provided these overwhelmingly positive statements to investors while, at the same time, disseminating materially false and misleading statements and/or concealing material adverse facts concerning the true state of its Long Island City ("LIC") property. In particular, Alexandria Real Estate's claims and confidence about the leasing value of the LIC property as a life-science destination. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.

To join the Alexandria Real Estate Equities class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=48531 call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] for information on the class action.

No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.

Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/.

Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Contact Information:

Laurence Rosen, Esq.

Phillip Kim, Esq.

The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.

275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor

New York, NY 10016

Tel: (212) 686-1060

Toll Free: (866) 767-3653

Fax: (212) 202-3827

[email protected]

www.rosenlegal.com

SOURCE THE ROSEN LAW FIRM, P. A.
Strategic integration to preemptively respond to the global tech trend

Dunamu, operator of Korea's largest crypto exchange Upbit, joining forces with Naver to empower K- fintech

exchange Upbit, joining forces with Naver to empower K- To invest KRW 10 trillion over the next five years to expand Korea's blockchain, Web3, and AI technology ecosystem

SEOUL, South Korea, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Dunamu Inc. (CEO Kyung-seok Oh), NAVER Corp. (CEO Soo Yeon Choi), and NAVER Financial Corp. (CEO Sang-jin Park) announced on Thursday that their respective boards have approved a comprehensive share-swap, under which Dunamu will become part of NAVER group. The companies held a joint press conference at NAVER's 1784 headquarters to outline their shared vision for global expansion.

Dunamu - Team NAVER, Declare Global Lead with Mega Synergy of AI and Web3

The press conference was attended by NAVER Founder and Global Investment Officer Hae-jin Lee, Dunamu Chairman Chi-hyung Song, NAVER CEO Soo Yeon Choi, Dunamu CEO Kyung-seok Oh and NAVER Financial CEO Sang-jin Park.

Dunamu operating Upbit, the world's fourth-largest and Korea's top crypto exchange, and Naver and Naver Financial are expected to gain a significant edge over global fintech firms, empowering K-fintech to go global.

Targeting global markets through AIWeb3 convergence

Naver CEO Soo Yeon Choi said the integration comes at a pivotal moment when the mass adoption of blockchain is coinciding with the rise of "agentic AI," in which AI systems make autonomous decisions and execute tasks.

"This is a critical inflection point where new opportunities are opening," Choi said. "NAVER and Dunamu have joined forces around the idea of driving a new wave of innovation on the global stage."

Dunamu Chairman Song said the three companies intend to jointly design next-generation financial infrastructure that fuses AI and blockchain.

"We aim to build a new global platform model that extends beyond payments and settlements to encompass the full spectrum of financial services and, ultimately, everyday lifestyle services," Song said.

NAVER Founder Lee stressed the strategic importance of combining NAVER's AI capabilities with Dunamu's Web3 expertise

"For NAVER to continue to lead the next wave of markets, our AI capabilities must be tightly integrated with Web3," Lee said. "To keep pace with global digital finance, Dunamu and NAVER Financial need faster decision-making and must take on ambitious initiatives that global peers have not yet tried."

CEO Oh, who leads Korea's largest crypto exchange Upbit, emphasized that the essence of the deal is to turn global technology shifts into growth opportunities.

"By combining the capabilities, we intend to treat this global inflection point not as a risk but as an opportunity for a far greater leap forward," Oh said.

Combining strengths across AI, Web3, payments, content and commerce

Once the deal is completed, NAVERKorea's largest internet company and a leading player in search and AI technology; NAVER Financiala top simple-payment provider with more than 34 million users and over KRW 80 trillion in annual transaction volume; and Dunamuoperator of Upbit, which boasts top-tier global digital asset trading volume, and owner of Korea's leading blockchain technologies such as GiwaChainwill pool their strengths to seize new global opportunities.

CEO Choi stressed the companies will prioritize building shared, global-first operating culture after the deal closure.

"It's important that we fully convey our shared vision to external stakeholders. Once the deal is completed, we will establish a culture that puts global expansion first and be thoroughly prepared to move aggressively into the global Web3 market, backed by a full lineup of users, data, technology, services and capital."

KRW 10 trillion investment over five years to catalyze Korea's AI and Web3 ecosystem

At the joint press conference, CEO Choi also announced that the three companies plan to play a leading role in strengthening Korea's technology ecosystem in AI, Web3 and other strategic areas. With global players already emerging on the back of strong technological and service foundations, she noted that ecosystem-building is essential for Korean companies to secure competitiveness.

To that end, companies announced a plan to invest KRW 10 trillion over the next five years to cultivate talent in AI and blockchain, build a more secure and resilient infrastructure and support promising startups.

Looking ahead, Oh added that Dunamu and NAVER Financial will prioritize realizing synergies from the integration rather than pursuing further governance changes in the near term.

"Our immediate focus will be on maximizing synergies through the comprehensive share swap, affiliate integration and corporate convergence," Oh said. "Rather than additional changes to the governance structure, we will concentrate on advancing into global markets and expanding access to capital markets."

SOURCE Dunamu
The AI Tech Company Partners with Pharo Foundation to Deliver a One-Year Programme to Support Learners in the Region

LONDON, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Efekta Education Group, a global leader in AI-powered learning technology, in collaboration with Pharo Foundation, an organisation working to improve economic development in Africa, today announces the launch of an ambitious new initiative to significantly improve English proficiency and communication skills among teachers and secondary school students across Pharo schools in Somaliland, Ethiopia, Rwanda, and Kenya. This marks a key step in Efekta's mission to support learners and educators across new regions, by providing access to top quality education at scale to millions worldwide.

Bringing AI to the classroom at scale.

Together, Efekta and Pharo Foundation aim to strengthen classroom instruction, improve student learning outcomes, and expand employability skills by ensuring teachers and students gain the English proficiency required to thrive in a global, digital economy.

As part of the first phase which starts December 2025, all Pharo primary and secondary School Teachers will access Efekta's AI-powered English learning platform, equipping them with the language and communication skills needed to deliver high-quality English instruction. In the second phase starting in early 2026, the partnership will expand the program to all Pharo Foundation secondary school children in Somaliland and Ethiopia.

"We are honoured to partner with Pharo Foundation on this transformative initiative," said Stephen Hodges, CEO of Efekta Education Group. "By combining our AI-powered English learning technology with Pharo's deep commitment to quality education, we have an extraordinary opportunity to strengthen teacher capacity, uplift student outcomes, and equip a new generation of young people with the skills to thrive in a global economy."

Improving opportunities for Africa's youth.

Today, millions of secondary school students across Africa leave school without the English foundation required to succeed in higher education, secure meaningful work, or participate in global markets. Improving English proficiency is therefore not just a language intervention - it is a workforce development strategy, a social mobility engine, and an economic transformation tool.

"At Pharo Foundation, our mission is to create a future where all young people can access high-quality, affordable education and meaningful opportunity," said Tim Kasperidus, Chief Operating Officer, Pharo Foundation. Partnering with Efekta allows us to bring world-class English instruction to our teachers and students, expanding pathways for learning, employability, and long-term economic empowerment. Once delivered successfully, we are excited to explore how the impact can be scaled further."

Proven results, ready to scale.

Efekta's Brazil case study covering more than 4 million learners shows that when teachers and students learn together, gains are significantly faster and more sustained. The multiplier effect of training teachers and students led to a remarkable 32.5% improvement in student learning outcomes on the State English Exams within just two years.

Efekta's AI-powered online English school, designed specifically for public education systems, provides academically rigorous, age-appropriate content and a personalised AI tutor that adapts to each learner's unique needs. With real-time feedback, spoken-language assessment, and integrated teacher support, the platform enables students and teachers to make measurable progress quickly and consistently.

At the cost of a single textbook per student per year, this solution is one of the most scalable and cost-effective ways to rapidly improve English proficiency globally. Efekta is leveraging this scalable model to expand rapidly into new global markets, bringing proven AI-powered learning solutions to millions more students and educators worldwide.

This partnership has the potential to serve as a continental blueprint for education transformation and inspire large-scale adoption of technology-enabled language learning across Africa, benefiting millions of future learners. This partnership will add critical African data points to the evidence base on how combined teacherstudent learning improves English fluency and strengthens workforce development.

About Pharo Foundation

Pharo Foundation is a mission-driven, impact-oriented private organisation that designs, funds and operates economic development programmes, towards a vibrant, productive and self-reliant Africa. The Foundation does this by focusing on three missions in education, water and productivity, operating in Somaliland, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Rwanda. In education, through its network of high-quality schools which aims to educate more than 25,000 by 2035, and its investment in sustainable development, the Foundation empowers young people with the skills, values, and opportunities needed to build a better future for themselves and their communities.

About Efekta Education Group

Efekta Education Group is an innovative AI Tech company redefining education with innovative solutions that drive better outcomes for learners at scale everywhere  helping students learn faster and go further by making personal teaching and learning affordable and accessible in public and private school systems, universities and global companies.

We supercharge both teachers and students with our AI-powered curriculum, AI Personal Teaching Assistant for Students, and Classroom AI tools for Teachers. Our technology is based on data and experience from the world's largest online English school and 60 years of leadership in the field of immersive education.

To date, Efekta's technology has taught English to over 24 million people and is currently used by over four million active students, 25,000 teachers, 3,000 corporate clients, and several governments worldwide. Efekta is an EF (Education First) company. EF is the world's largest private education company.

SOURCE Efekta Education Group
A category-leading pioneer for the non-alcoholic sparkling wine category, French Bloom is now the first Maison in the world entirely dedicated to producing non-alcoholic sparkling wines from its own winery and vineyard land

NEW YORK, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- French Bloom , the award-winning producer of premium alcohol-free French sparkling wines, will become the first Maison in the world exclusively dedicated to alcohol-free sparkling wines after acquiring its own estate in Limoux, the historic birthplace of French sparkling wine.

French Bloom Acquires Its Own Estate in Limoux

This acquisition, which includes 25 hectares of vineyard and winery land, marks an important milestone for French Bloom, deepening its connection to the terroirs of Limoux, and affirming a long-held vision of combining traditional farming and precision viticulture, with the innovative techniques of non-alcoholic sparkling winemaking. The estate will be fully operational in September 2026.

"We want to anchor our vision in a deeper connection with terroir and in a sustainable approach to alcohol-free sparkling wines. This new step marks an important moment for the Maison," explains Maggie Frerejean-Taittinger, co-founder and CMO.

A MEANINGFUL ANCHOR IN TERROIR

An elevated terroir known for its cool nights and the aromatic expression of its Chardonnay, Limoux has shaped the style of French Bloom's sparkling wines from the very beginning. The altitude of the Haute Vallee plays a decisive role in achieving the natural freshness and aromatic tension sought by the Maisonessential parameters for crafting alcohol-free sparkling wines that are both complex, well-balanced and expressive.

By choosing to establish itself here, French Bloom reinforces a natural link between creation, terroir, and high standards, in a category undergoing rapid acceleration.

"Since the creation of French Bloom, our ambition has been clear: to elevate the category with precision and high standards, and to champion excellent French sparkling wines rooted in terroir and provenance. This commitment reinforces that dynamic," emphasizes Rodolphe Frerejean-Taittinger, CEO.

A CATEGORY IN FULL MOMENTUM

Demand for alcohol-free sparkling wines is accelerating, driven both by a growing desire for moderation and by rising expectations in terms of quality. According to NielsenIQ, more than 1 in 2 Americans are looking to reduce their alcohol consumption in 2025. And at a global level, the non-alcoholic market is set to exceed 30 billion dollars by 2030 (IWSR).

This structural momentum is giving rise to a strongly expanding premium segment, along with a growing interest in terroir-driven products. By establishing its roots in Limoux, French Bloom fully aligns with this evolution and confirms its pioneering role in a category that remains young but is rapidly accelerating.

A TECHNICAL APPROACH IN CONSTANT EVOLUTION

Since its beginnings, French Bloom has reimagined the traditional codes of winemaking to craft alcohol-free sparkling wines that are complex, balanced, and expressive. The Maison has progressively developed an approach that completely rethinks the production process, working from base wines specifically designed for dealcoholization. This method combines precision, fruit mastery, and attention to detail to create cuvees whose structure and expression echo that of great French sparkling wines.

ABOUT FRENCH BLOOM  us.frenchbloom.com

Founded in 2019 by Maggie Frerejean-Taittinger and Constance Jablonski, and joining forces with Rodolphe Frerejean-Taittinger, French Bloom's CEO with extensive experience in Champagne and Cognac, the team's pioneering spirit is reshaping the way the world celebrates. Launched in 2021, French Bloom is the leading Maison for alcohol-free sparkling wines. It was born from a simple conviction: ensuring everyone can take part fully in the moment of the toast. This idea sparked a broader ambitionreinterpreting French sparkling wines for a generation seeking moderation, without compromising emotion or finesse.

French Bloom cuvees are crafted from base wines delicately dealcoholized at low temperature. They contain no added sugar, are certified vegan, and with 0.0% alcohol. The collection brings together four signature cuvees: Le Blanc, Le Rose, L'Extra Brut and La Cuvee Vintage. Present in over 60 countries, in short four years, French Bloom has established itself as the leader in its category. Its non-alcoholic cuvees are served in gastronomic restaurants, luxury hotels, and fine-wine retailers around the world. In 2024, the Maison entered into a strategic partnership with Moet Hennessy, the group's first investment in the alcohol-free universe.

Awarded World's Best Alcohol-Free Sparkling for three years, French Bloom embodies a new way of celebratingelegant, modern, and sincere.

PRESS CONTACTS

Colangelo & Partners

Irene Graziotto, [email protected] , 646 719 5303

SOURCE French Bloom
News / National

by Stephen Jakes

HARARE - The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has dismissed as malicious reports circulating on social media alleging that the Authority intends to impose a tax on solar energy users.Social media platforms have been awash with claims that ZERA will begin taxing households and individuals who use solar power. In a statement, the regulator described the reports as false and devoid of any truth."This report is entirely false, devoid of any truth and should be dismissed with the contempt it deserves," ZERA said.The Authority stressed that Government's recently launched National Energy Compact aims to ensure universal access to energy by 2030, with mechanisms already in place to increase the roll-out of all energy forms, including solar, so that "no one and no place is left behind."To support this goal, ZERA highlighted several incentives, including duty-free importation of solar equipment, training for solar installers to boost industry standards, and net-metering regulations that allow households to supply excess energy to the national grid."ZERA reassures the public that there is no levy or charge required or will be required to install or own a solar system for domestic use," the statement added.The Authority urged citizens to ignore the misleading claims, emphasising that they run contrary to Government policy and priorities on energy access and inclusivity.
New units available for lease or sale, delivered by a trusted, local team committed to fast, high-quality portable space solutions

HONOLULU, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- As season of gratitude begins, Modular Hawaii is reflecting on the extraordinary relationships, trust, and community support that turned a six-month idea into a fully operational modular company with signed contracts extending into 2026. The company's founder, Mike Fox, credits longstanding friendships, loyal business partners, customers and a dedicated team for helping transform a vision into fruition.

"How does a business launch in six months?" Fox reflected. "It starts with gratitude and the people who have been with you from the beginning."

This season, Fox is giving thanks starting with one call at a time. The first would be Lloyd Kandell, his original agency partner from 30 years ago. Lloyd, in turn, reached out to Melinda Mullis, founder of OrangeRoc, who had supported Fox's companies in the past. The group reunited, combining decades of expertise and experience to help launch Modular Hawaii.

"This time, it wasn't just about building a business," Fox added. "It was about creating a path for my original team Edie Nakoa, Guy Murakami, Mike Rabang, and Kimo Nakoa to one day earn ownership once they are fully vested. These are some of the people who contributed to my success from the very beginning. Community matters, and longstanding relationships matter when it comes to operationalizing a business. We thrive when we lift each other up and stay focused on the mission."

Modular Hawaii has gone from concept to signed contracts including several immediate-delivery projects. One team member shared, "It's important to be grateful this season. Each of us has strengths, and together we're able to serve customers with exceptional care. We're human-centric, and we believe every space we deliver exists to support a person, a role, and a purpose."

We serve schools, healthcare providers, construction crews, government agencies, businesses, and major event organizers statewide to support rapid expansion, emergency needs, and flexible growth. Modular Hawaii offers an efficient alternative to traditional construction with a local team that understands our state logistics.

Guy Murakami is leading Modular Hawaii's sponsorship and community partnership with Friends of Hawaii Charities at Sony Open in Hawai'i, a collaboration that reflects the company's commitment to all people. This dedication will be showcased in January 2026 when Modular Hawaii serves as a major event sponsor at the Sony Open at Waialae Country Club. The team will provide nine fully furnished modular units for the PGA Tour, reinforcing the company's support for events that strengthen Hawai'i's culture, community, and economy.

"It's an honor to support an event that brings people together and highlights the best of Hawai'i," said Guy Murakami, Sales Manager at Modular Hawaii. "Providing these modular units is our way of giving back and contributing to an event that has such a positive impact on our islands."

About Modular Hawaii

Modular Hawaii provides modular buildings and portable units for lease or sale to commercial, educational, healthcare, government, construction, and event sectors throughout the Hawaiian Islands. With a focus on high-quality construction, rapid deployment, and dependable local service, Modular Hawaii delivers flexible building solutions that help organizations expand quickly and efficiently.

Guided by a mission to provide reliable, fast, and high-quality modular structures, the company operates with a general contractor license and a human-centered philosophy recognizing that every modular unit exists to support a person, a role, and a purpose. This belief drives Modular Hawaii's approach to product development, design, and delivery. Backed by a dedicated local team, the company ensures that every project is completed with professionalism, care, and efficiency.

For inquiries, contact Sales Managers Edie Nakoa or Guy Murakami at (808) 767-6700 or email [email protected] Visit www.ModularHawaii.com for more information.

Media Contact Angelina Creger (808) 557-1217 ModularHawaii.com Office Address Modular Hawaii 91-294 Kauhi St Unit J Kapolei, Hawaii 96707 Phone: (808) 767-6700

SOURCE Modular Hawaii
Shareholders should contact the firm immediately as there may be limited time to enforce your rights.

NEW YORK, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Halper Sadeh LLC, an investor rights law firm, is investigating whether certain officers and directors of Globe Life Inc. (NYSE: GL) breached their fiduciary duties to shareholders.

If you currently own Globe stock and are a long-term shareholder, you may be able to seek corporate governance reforms, the return of funds back to the company, a court-approved financial incentive award, or other relief and benefits. Please click here to learn more about your legal rights and options or contact Daniel Sadeh or Zachary Halper at (212) 763-0060 or [email protected] or [email protected]. Our firm would handle the action on a contingent fee basis, whereby you would not be responsible for out-of-pocket payment of our legal fees or expenses.

Why Your Participation Matters:

Shareholder involvement can help improve a company's policies, practices, and oversight mechanisms to create a more transparent, accountable, and effectively managed organization, which can enhance shareholder value.

Halper Sadeh LLC represents investors all over the world who have fallen victim to securities fraud and corporate misconduct. Our attorneys have been instrumental in implementing corporate reforms and recovering millions of dollars on behalf of defrauded investors.

Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Contact Information:

Halper Sadeh LLC

One World Trade Center

85th Floor

New York, NY 10007

Daniel Sadeh, Esq.

Zachary Halper, Esq.

(212) 763-0060

[email protected]

[email protected]

https://www.halpersadeh.com

SOURCE Halper Sadeh LLP
HANGZHOU, China, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In the global landscape of innovation and entrepreneurship, Hangzhou is emerging as the destination of choice for a growing number of high-level overseas talents, thanks to its distinctive policy advantages, comprehensive service system, and favorable entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Since introducing its first policy to support overseas-educated talent in entrepreneurship in 2001, Hangzhou has remained at the forefront nationwide. Over the past two decades, Hangzhou has continuously upgraded its talent policies, expanding from initial financial support to more than 20 areas including residency, housing, social security, children's education, entry and exit, business registration, and patent applications, thereby creating a full-chain system that covers both entrepreneurship and daily life. Data shows that the governments have provided more than 330 million RMB in support for 1,186 overseas-educated talent projects, serving as solid support for business growth  Hangzhou has created unprecedented opportunities for overseas-educated talent to grow and thrive.

In Gongshu district, the China-Europe Talent Exchange and Innovation Cooperation Center has shortened the integration timeline of overseas projects from 12 months to just 3 months, while helping talent-led enterprises secure nearly 300 million RMB in financing.

Yuhang district through its "Golden 20 Policies", has advanced the "Global Talent Partnership", offering up to 100 million RMB in support for top-tier talent projects.

Xihu district, positioned as the 'first stop' for young talents to stay in Hangzhou, has introduced the "Xihu Talent" fast-track mechanism, with a total talent pool of over 400,000. Meanwhile, Binjiang district's "5050" policy has led the trend for 15 consecutive years, fostering dozens of unicorn enterprises.

Beyond policy support, Hangzhou has also earned the praise of overseas-educated entrepreneurs through its attentive and comprehensive services.

SOURCE HZICC
BOSTON, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ - John Hancock Tax-Advantaged Dividend Income Fund (NYSE: HTD) (the "Fund"), a closed-end fund managed by John Hancock Investment Management LLC and subadvised by Manulife Investment Management (US) LLC, announced today sources of its monthly distribution of $0.1580 per share paid to all shareholders of record as of November 13, 2025, pursuant to the Fund's managed distribution plan. This press release is issued as required by an exemptive order granted to the Fund by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

Notification of Sources of Distribution

This notice provides shareholders of the John Hancock Tax-Advantaged Dividend Income Fund (NYSE: HTD) with important information concerning the distribution declared on November 3, 2025, and payable on November 28, 2025. No action is required on your part.

Distribution Period: November 2025 Distribution Amount Per Common Share: $0.1580

The following table sets forth the estimated sources of the current distribution, payable November 28, 2025, and the cumulative distributions paid this fiscal year to date from the following sources: net investment income; net realized short term capital gains; net realized long term capital gains; and return of capital or other capital source. All amounts are expressed on a per common share basis and as a percentage of the distribution amount.





For the period 11/01/2025-11/30/2025

For the fiscal year-to-date period 11/01/2025-11/30/2025 1 Source

Current

Distribution ($)

% Breakdown

of the Current

Distribution

Total Cumulative

Distributions ($)

% Breakdown

of the Total

Cumulative

Distributions Net Investment Income

0.1183

75 %

0.1183

75 % Net Realized Short- Term Capital Gains

0.0159

10 %

0.0159

10 % Net Realized Long- Term Capital Gains

0.0238

15 %

0.0238

15 % Return of Capital or Other Capital Source

0.0000

0 %

0.0000

0 % Total per common share

0.1580

100 %

0.1580

100 %

















Average annual total return (in relation to NAV) for the 5 years ended on October 31, 2025

11.79 %





Annualized current distribution rate expressed as a percentage of NAV as of October 31, 2025

7.30 %





Cumulative total return (in relation to NAV) for the fiscal year through October 31, 2025

12.98 %





Cumulative fiscal year-to-date distribution rate expressed as a percentage of NAV as of October 31, 2025

0.61 %



______________________________

1 The Fund's current fiscal year began on November 1, 2025 and will end on October 31, 2026.

You should not draw any conclusions about the Fund's investment performance from the amount of this distribution or from the terms of the Fund's managed distribution plan.

The amounts and sources of distributions reported in this Notice are only estimates and are not being provided for tax reporting purposes. The actual amounts and sources of the amounts for tax reporting purposes will depend upon the Fund's investment experience during the remainder of its fiscal year and may be subject to changes based on tax regulations. The Fund will send you a Form 1099-DIV for the calendar year that will tell you how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes.

The Fund has declared the November 2025 distribution pursuant to the Fund's managed distribution plan (the "Plan"). Under the Plan, the Fund makes fixed monthly distributions in the amount of $0.1580 per share, which will continue to be paid monthly until further notice.

If you have questions or need additional information, please contact your financial professional or call the Manulife John Hancock Closed-End Fund Information Line at 1-800-843-0090, Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., Eastern Time.

Statements in this press release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements as defined by the United States securities laws. You should exercise caution in interpreting and relying on forward-looking statements because they are subject to uncertainties and other factors which are, in some cases, beyond the Fund's control and could cause actual results to differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements.

An investor should consider a Fund's investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing.

About Manulife John Hancock Investments

We serve investors through a unique multimanager approach, complementing our extensive in-house capabilities with an unrivaled network of specialized asset managers, backed by some of the most rigorous investment oversight in the industry. The result is a diverse lineup of time-tested investments from a premier asset manager with a heritage of financial stewardship.

About Manulife Wealth & Asset Management

As part of Manulife Financial Corporation, Manulife Wealth & Asset Management provides global investment, financial advice, and retirement plan services to 19 million individuals, institutions, and retirement plan members worldwide. Our mission is to make decisions easier and lives better by empowering people today to invest for a better tomorrow. As a committed partner to our clients and as a responsible steward of investor capital, we offer a heritage of risk management, deep expertise across public and private markets, and comprehensive retirement plan services. We seek to provide better investment and impact outcomes and to help people confidently save and invest for a more secure financial future. Not all offerings are available in all jurisdictions. For additional information, please visit manulifeim.com.

Media Contact: Gordon Haight

(617) 572-0034;

Investor Contact: (800) 843-0090

SOURCE John Hancock Investment Management
Clarks and Timberland Slippers to Be Previewed at RGB's Bryant Park Showroom During FFANY

NEW YORK, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- RG Barry Brands (RGB), a leading footwear and accessories company, and Green Market Services Co. Inc. (GMS) today announced that they have reached an agreement in principle under which RGB would acquire substantially all of GMS' assets. The proposed transaction includes GMS' licensed slipper businesses for Clarks, Timberland, and their existing private label business, as well as the GMS team that supports those brands.

Clarks and Timberland each bring powerful yet distinct strengths to the RGB portfolio. Clarks delivers iconic brand equity and heritage comfort credibility that aligns with today's wellness-driven demand for structured underfoot support and indoor/outdoor versatility. Timberland brings equally strong brand recognition with an outdoor-focused consumer base that fits the growing indoor/outdoor living trend, where durability, comfort, and style converge. Together, these brands position RGB to meet high-growth lifestyle needs with authentic, category-leading relevance.

The Clarks and Timberland slipper collections will be showcased as a part of RGB's brand portfolio at the new RG Barry Brands Showroom in New York City, overlooking Bryant Park at 8 West 40th Street. The collections will be showcased alongside Dearfoams, Baggallini and Columbus Product Group during FFANY, beginning December 2.

"This proposed transaction marks a strategic step forward for RG Barry Brands," said Bob Mullaney, President and Chief Executive Officer of RG Barry Brands. "Clarks and Timberland are heritage brands with deeply loyal followings, much like Dearfoams, and we see meaningful opportunity to expand our presence in the premium slipper category. The RGB Platform is built to integrate and scale brands with disciplined stewardship, comfort innovation, and broader market reach. Grounded in the RGB Way  consumer-focused, data-driven, digital-centric, and earth-first  we're uniquely positioned to lead Clarks and Timberland into the next chapter of their slipper journey, serving today's consumer and strengthening long-term brand value."

Lee Smith, President of Columbus Product Group and a 20-year veteran of RG Barry Brands, will oversee both brands and lead the GMS integration. Smith shared, "With RGB's proven expertise in comfort, product development, and digital commerce, assuming the transaction is completed, we're well equipped to elevate both Clarks and Timberland  particularly from an e-commerce standpoint. As global licenses, they also offer a powerful opportunity to strengthen overall brand awareness and drive meaningful growth across the RGB portfolio."

Tom Connelly, Chief Executive Officer of Green Market Services, shared, "I'm incredibly proud of what our team has built at Green Market over the years. RG Barry is the right home for these brands  one that brings deep category expertise and a clear vision for their future."

What Retail Partners Can Expect

Immediate Market Week Presence: Clarks and Timberland slipper collections will be showcased in RG Barry's Bryant Park showroom for FFANY Market Week appointments beginning December 2, 2025.

Clarks and Timberland slipper collections will be showcased in RG Barry's Bryant Park showroom for FFANY Market Week appointments beginning December 2, 2025. Seamless Brand Continuity: The GMS team supporting these brands will transition to RG Barry, ensuring uninterrupted service, consistent communication, and smooth integration for all key retail partners.

The GMS team supporting these brands will transition to RG Barry, ensuring uninterrupted service, consistent communication, and smooth integration for all key retail partners. Enhanced E-Commerce Performance: RGB will leverage its proven digital commerce capabilities spanning optimized content, performance marketing, and marketplace excellence  to strengthen online visibility, conversion, and global reach for both brands.

RGB will leverage its proven digital commerce capabilities spanning optimized content, performance marketing, and marketplace excellence  to strengthen online visibility, conversion, and global reach for both brands. Focused Long-Term Growth: RG Barry intends to invest in the continued development of these programs with an emphasis on premium comfort, elevated design, innovation, and responsible, earth-first product development.

Any potential transaction remains subject to customary closing conditions, consents, approvals and definitive agreements.

About RG Barry Brands

RG Barry Brands (RGB) is a consumer-driven, multi-channel, digitally led brand management platform developed to accelerate growth and innovation for lifestyle consumer brands. Founded in 1947 by Florence Melton, RGB introduced a range of comfortable lifestyle products under the Dearfoams brand. Today, Dearfoams is the leading slipper brand in the United States, expanding its product line to include comfortable footwear and various lifestyle products. Building on this success, RGB diversified its portfolio with the acquisition of Baggallini in 2011 and is broadening its focus to create a platform of brands that offer Earth-first, solution-oriented products. Today, RGB Brands include Dearfoams, Baggallini, Clarks, Timberland, Columbus Product Group, and Planet A. For more information, visit www.rgbarry.com.

About Green Market Services Company, Inc.

For more than 50 years, privately owned Green Market Services has built a heritage of expertise and professionalism. Industry partners know they can count on us to understand their brand and protect its integrity. They source globally, working with selected factories to manage quality assurance and compliance testing to create lines that reflect the image and values of our partners. For more information, visit www.greenmarketservices.com.

Media Contact

Johnna Muscente

[email protected]

SOURCE RG Barry Brands
The rhabdomyosarcoma market is expanding as unmet needs in pediatric and young-adult populations drive increased R&D and clinical activity. Additionally, the launch of emerging therapies such as Cabozantinib (Exelixis/Ipsen), PEEL-224 (Peel Therapeutics), Orotecan (Edison Oncology), ONIVYDE (St. Jude Research Hospital), and others will further propel the market growth.

LAS VEGAS, Nov. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- DelveInsight's Rhabdomyosarcoma Market Insights report includes a comprehensive understanding of current treatment practices, rhabdomyosarcoma emerging drugs, 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).

Rhabdomyosarcoma Market Summary

The market size for rhabdomyosarcoma in the leading markets is expected to grow significantly by 2034.

The United States accounted for the highest rhabdomyosarcoma treatment market size in 7MM in 2024, in comparison to the other major markets, i.e., EU4 countries, the United Kingdom, and Japan.

Rhabdomyosarcoma is one of the most common STS in children, representing  50% of STS cases.

of STS cases. Leading rhabdomyosarcoma companies developing emerging therapies, such as Exelixis, Ipsen, Peel Therapeutics, Edison Oncology, St. Jude Research Hospital, and others, are developing new therapy for rhabdomyosarcoma that can be available in the rhabdomyosarcoma market in the coming years.

and others, are developing new therapy for rhabdomyosarcoma that can be available in the rhabdomyosarcoma market in the coming years. The promising rhabdomyosarcoma therapies in clinical trials include Cabozantinib, PEEL-224, Orotecan, ONIVYDE, and others.

Discover the rhabdomyosarcoma new treatment @ New Treatments for Rhabdomyosarcoma

Key Factors Driving the Growth of the Rhabdomyosarcoma Market

Pediatric Prevalence and Clear Clinical Need

Rhabdomyosarcoma is the most common soft-tissue sarcoma in children, with a measurable (though rare) incidence that keeps it a distinct clinical priority in pediatric oncology.

Genetic Profiling and Risk Stratification in Rhabdomyosarcoma

Recent genetic and molecular profiling of rhabdomyosarcoma has enhanced risk stratification and individualized treatment. Identifying subtypes, such as alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma with PAX3/7-FOXO1 fusion, enables more accurate prognostic predictions and informs targeted therapy strategies in clinical trials.

Novel Agents and Immuno-Oncology Approaches for Relapsed or Metastatic Rhabdomyosarcoma

New drugs targeting IGF1R, ALK, and FGFR pathways, as well as immune-based strategies such as checkpoint inhibitors, CAR-T cells, and cancer vaccines, hold promise for improving outcomes in relapsed or metastatic rhabdomyosarcoma. Early-phase clinical trials are expanding rapidly, presenting opportunities for breakthroughs in previously hard-to-treat cases.

Launch of Emerging Rhabdomyosarcoma Drugs

The rhabdomyosarcoma pipeline is advancing, with several key candidates currently in early-stage clinical development. Notable drugs in progress include Cabozantinib (Exelixis/Ipsen), PEEL-224 (Peel Therapeutics), Orotecan (Edison Oncology), and ONIVYDE (St. Jude Research Hospital), among others.

Rhabdomyosarcoma Market Analysis

Currently, treatment options for rhabdomyosarcoma remain limited, with the VAC regimen, comprising an alkylating agent (such as cyclophosphamide or ifosfamide) combined with vincristine and dactinomycin, serving as the standard of care across all risk categories: low, intermediate, and high.

In children with localized disease, rhabdomyosarcoma is often curable through combined-modality therapy, yielding 5-year survival rates above 70%. Patients who remain event-free for 5 years rarely relapse, with the 10-year late-event rate around 9%. However, the risk of recurrence is significantly higher in those presenting with unresectable tumors, unfavorable primary sites, or metastatic disease at diagnosis.

Early efforts to apply adult immunotherapy approaches to pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma have shown limited benefit, primarily due to the typically low mutational burden and non-inflammatory tumor microenvironment of pediatric solid tumors. The scarcity of robust clinical trial data underscores a persistent unmet need in rhabdomyosarcoma management. Emerging companies addressing this gap include Peel Therapeutics, Ipsen Pharma, Edison Oncology, and others.

To know more about rhabdomyosarcoma treatment options, visit @ Approved Rhabdomyosarcoma Drugs

Rhabdomyosarcoma Competitive Landscape

The rhabdomyosarcoma clinical trial landscape is advancing, with several major products in early-stage clinical development. The current drugs in the pipeline include Cabozantinib (Exelixis/Ipsen), PEEL-224 (Peel Therapeutics), Orotecan (Edison Oncology), ONIVYDE (St. Jude Research Hospital), and others.

Exelixis/Ipsen's Cabozantinib is an orally administered tyrosine kinase inhibitor used to treat several types of cancer. It acts on multiple signaling pathways that drive tumor growth and angiogenesis. The drug is currently in Phase II clinical development for rhabdomyosarcoma, with ongoing studies in collaboration with Nationwide Children's Hospital (NCT05135975) and the National Cancer Institute (NCT02867592).

Peel Therapeutics' PEEL-224 is a nanocarrier-based therapy incorporating four small molecules for cancer treatment. Its active component is derived from camptothecin, a natural compound from the Chinese Happy Tree, initially thought to serve as a plant defense molecule. Through molecular engineering and conjugation with a synthetic polymer, PEEL-224 is designed to enhance therapeutic efficacy while minimizing toxicity. It is presently being evaluated in Phase I/II clinical trials in collaboration with the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (NCT06709495) and the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (NCT06721689).

Edison Oncology's Orotecan (oral irinotecan HCl, VAL-413) is a novel, patented liquid oral formulation of irinotecan hydrochloride developed to enable oral administration with improved tolerability. It is currently undergoing Phase I clinical development. In April 2024, Edison Oncology presented interim data from its ongoing orotecan trial in recurrent pediatric cancers at the AACR 2024 conference.

ONIVYDE is a cancer therapy that inhibits the TOP1 enzyme, which is essential for DNA replication and cell division. By blocking this enzyme, the drug prevents cancer cell proliferation, leading to cell death. In ONIVYDE, irinotecan is encapsulated in liposomestiny lipid particles that accumulate in tumors and release the drug gradually. It is administered intravenously over 90 minutes every two weeks, with specific dosing adjustment guidelines. ONIVYDE is currently in Phase I/II clinical development.

The anticipated launch of these emerging therapies are poised to transform the rhabdomyosarcoma market landscape in the coming years. As these cutting-edge therapies continue to mature and gain regulatory approval, they are expected to reshape the rhabdomyosarcoma market landscape, offering new standards of care and unlocking opportunities for medical innovation and economic growth.

Discover more about therapy for rhabdomyosarcoma @ Rhabdomyosarcoma Clinical Trials

What is Rhabdomyosarcoma?

Rhabdomyosarcoma is a rare and aggressive malignant tumor that arises from skeletal muscle progenitor cells. It primarily affects children and adolescents, though it can also occur in adults. RMS is categorized into several histological subtypes, including embryonal, alveolar, and pleomorphic, each with distinct genetic and clinical characteristics. Common sites of origin include the head and neck region, genitourinary tract, and extremities. The disease often presents as a rapidly growing, painless mass, sometimes accompanied by symptoms related to local invasion or metastasis. Diagnosis involves imaging studies, biopsy, and immunohistochemical analysis, while treatment typically includes a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Advances in molecular profiling have improved understanding of the disease's biology, paving the way for targeted and personalized therapeutic strategies.

Rhabdomyosarcoma Epidemiology Segmentation

The rhabdomyosarcoma epidemiology section provides insights into the historical and current rhabdomyosarcoma patient pool and forecasted trends for the leading markets. Rhabdomyosarcoma is a soft tissue malignant tumor of mesenchymal origin. It accounts for approximately 2.7% of cancer cases among children aged 0 to 14 years and 1.4% of the cases among adolescents and young adults aged 15 to 19 years.

The rhabdomyosarcoma market report proffers epidemiological analysis for the study period 20202034 in the leading markets, segmented into:

Total Incident Cases of Soft Tissue Sarcoma

Total Incident Cases of Rhabdomyosarcoma

Type-specific Incident Cases of Rhabdomyosarcoma

Site-specific Incident Cases of Rhabdomyosarcoma

Age-specific Incident Cases of Rhabdomyosarcoma

Total Treated Cases of Rhabdomyosarcoma

Rhabdomyosarcoma Market Report Metrics Details Study Period 20202034 Rhabdomyosarcoma Market Report Coverage 7MM [The United States, the EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain), the United Kingdom, and Japan]. Rhabdomyosarcoma Epidemiology Segmentation Total Incident Cases of Soft Tissue Sarcoma, Total Incident Cases of Rhabdomyosarcoma, Type-specific Incident Cases of Rhabdomyosarcoma, Site-specific Incident Cases of Rhabdomyosarcoma, Age-specific Incident Cases of Rhabdomyosarcoma, and Total Treated Cases of Rhabdomyosarcoma Key Rhabdomyosarcoma Companies Exelixis, Ipsen, Peel Therapeutics, Edison Oncology, St. Jude Research Hospital, and others Key Rhabdomyosarcoma Therapies Cabozantinib, PEEL-224, Orotecan, ONIVYDE, and others

Scope of the Rhabdomyosarcoma Market Report

Therapeutic Assessment: Rhabdomyosarcoma current marketed and emerging therapies

Rhabdomyosarcoma current marketed and emerging therapies Rhabdomyosarcoma Market Dynamics: Key Market Forecast Assumptions of Emerging Rhabdomyosarcoma Drugs and Market Outlook

Key Market Forecast Assumptions of Emerging Rhabdomyosarcoma Drugs and Market Outlook Competitive Intelligence Analysis: SWOT analysis and Market entry strategies

SWOT analysis and Market entry strategies Unmet Needs, KOL's views, Analyst's views, Rhabdomyosarcoma Market Access and Reimbursement

Download the report to understand which factors are driving rhabdomyosarcoma therapeutics market trends @ Rhabdomyosarcoma Market Trends

Table of Contents

1 Rhabdomyosarcoma Market Key Insights 2 Rhabdomyosarcoma Market Report Introduction 3 Executive Summary of Rhabdomyosarcoma 4 Rhabdomyosarcoma Market Overview at a Glance 4.1 Emerging Landscape Analysis (By Phase, RoA, and Molecule Type) 4.2 Market Share by Therapies (%) Distribution of Rhabdomyosarcoma in 2024 4.3 Market Share by Therapies (%) Distribution of Rhabdomyosarcoma in 2034 5 Key Events 6 Epidemiology and Market Forecast Methodology 7 Disease Background and Overview 7.1 Introduction 7.2 Rhabdomyosarcoma Symptoms 7.3 Rhabdomyosarcoma Causes 7.4 Rhabdomyosarcoma Types 7.5 Rhabdomyosarcoma Risk Factors 7.6 Rhabdomyosarcoma Pathophysiology 7.7 Rhabdomyosarcoma Biomarkers 7.8 Rhabdomyosarcoma Diagnosis 8 Rhabdomyosarcoma Treatment 9 Epidemiology and Patient Population 9.1 Key Findings 9.2 Assumptions and Rationale 9.3 Total Incident Cases of Soft Tissue Sarcoma in the 7MM 9.4 Total Incident Cases of Rhabdomyosarcoma in the 7MM 9.5 The United States 9.5.1 Total Incident Cases of Soft Tissue Sarcoma in the United States 9.5.2 Total Incident Cases of Rhabdomyosarcoma in the United States 9.5.3 Type-specific Incident Cases of Rhabdomyosarcoma in the United States 9.5.4 Site-specific Incident Cases of Rhabdomyosarcoma in the United States 9.5.5 Age-specific Incident Cases of Rhabdomyosarcoma in the United States 9.5.6 Total Treated Cases of Rhabdomyosarcoma in the United States 9.6 EU4 and the UK 9.7 Japan 10 Rhabdomyosarcoma Patient Journey 11 Emerging Rhabdomyosarcoma Therapies 11.1 Key Competitors 11.2 Cabozantinib: Exelixis 11.2.1 Product Description 11.2.2 Other Developmental Activities 11.2.3 Clinical Development 11.2.3.1 Clinical Trial Information 11.2.4 Safety and Efficacy 11.2.5 Analyst Views 11.3 PEEL-224: Peel Therapeutics 11.4 Orotecan (VAL-413): Edison Oncology List to continued  12 Rhabdomyosarcoma Market: 7MM Analysis 12.1 Key Findings 12.2 Rhabdomyosarcoma Market Outlook 12.3 Conjoint Analysis 12.4 Key Rhabdomyosarcoma Market Forecast Assumptions 12.5 Total Market Size of Rhabdomyosarcoma in the 7MM 12.6 Market Size of Rhabdomyosarcoma by Therapies in the 7MM 12.7 The United States Rhabdomyosarcoma Market Size 12.7.1 Total Market Size of Rhabdomyosarcoma in the United States 12.7.2 Market Size of Rhabdomyosarcoma by Therapies in the United States 12.8 EU4 and the UK Rhabdomyosarcoma Market Size 12.9 Japan Rhabdomyosarcoma Market Size 13 Rhabdomyosarcoma Market Unmet Needs 14 Rhabdomyosarcoma Market SWOT Analysis 15 KOL Views on Rhabdomyosarcoma 16 Rhabdomyosarcoma Market Access and Reimbursement 16.1 United States 16.2 EU4 and the UK 16.3 Japan 16.4 Market Access and Reimbursement of Rhabdomyosarcoma 16.5 Summary and Comparison of Market Access and Pricing Policy Developments in 2025 17 Bibliography 18 Rhabdomyosarcoma Market Report Methodology

Related Reports

Rhabdomyosarcoma Clinical Trial Analysis

Rhabdomyosarcoma Pipeline Insight  2025 report provides comprehensive insights about the pipeline landscape, pipeline drug profiles, including clinical and non-clinical stage products, and the key rhabdomyosarcoma companies, including Exelixis, Ipsen, Peel Therapeutics, Edison Oncology, St. Jude Research Hospital, among others.

Soft Tissue Sarcoma Market

Soft Tissue Sarcoma Market Insights, Epidemiology, and Market Forecast  2034 report deliver an in-depth understanding of the disease, historical and forecasted epidemiology, as well as the market trends, market drivers, market barriers, and key STS companies, including Advenchen Laboratories, Philogen, Gradalis, Epizyme, Chugai Pharma France, CytRx, Taiho Pharmaceuticals, KaryoPharm Therapeutics, Nanobiotix, Apexigen, Lytix Biopharma, Incyte Corporation, Iovance Biotherapeutics, Aadi Bioscience, Inc., AVEO Pharmaceuticals, Bayer, VasGene Therapeutics, Mirati Therapeutics, Novartis Pharmaceuticals, Incyte Corporation, Tracon Pharmaceuticals, Jiangsu Hengrui Medicine, Exelixis, Qbiotics, AstraZeneca, Loxo Oncology, ImmunityBio, Monopar Therapeutics, Chipscreen Biosciences, Ltd., Agenus, C4 Therapeutics, Inc., Noxopharm Limited, Moleculin Biotech, Inc., Sunshine Guojian Pharmaceutical (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Tracon Pharmaceuticals Inc., Guangdong Xiangxue Precision Medical Technology Co., Ltd., Cornerstone Pharmaceuticals, Takara Bio Inc., Jazz Pharmaceuticals, Lyell Immunopharma, Telix Pharmaceuticals, among others.

Kaposi Sarcoma Market

Kaposi Sarcoma Market Insight, Epidemiology, and Market Forecast  2034 report delivers an in-depth understanding of the market trends, market drivers, market barriers, and key Kaposi sarcoma companies, including Sun Pharmaceutical, Navidea Biopharmaceuticals, among others.

Ewing Sarcoma Market

Ewing Sarcoma Market Insights, Epidemiology, and Market Forecast  2034 report deliver an in-depth understanding of the disease, historical and forecasted epidemiology, as well as the market trends, market drivers, market barriers, and key Ewing sarcoma companies, including Gradalis, Eisai, Salarius Pharmaceuticals, Tyme, Jazz Pharmaceuticals, Pfizer, Eli Lilly and Company, Cellectar Biosciences, Inc., Valent Technologies, LLC, Sumitomo Pharma Oncology, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Ono Pharmaceuticals, Nektar Therapeutics, Inhibrx, Inc., 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.

Contact Us

Shruti Thakur

[email protected]

+14699457679

www.delveinsight.com

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1082265/3528414/DelveInsight_Logo.jpg

SOURCE DelveInsight Business Research LLP
MONTREAL, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ - Strategic Resources Inc. (TSXV: SR) (the "Company" or "Strategic") is pleased to announce the results of its annual general meeting of shareholders held on November 28, 2025 in Montreal (the "Meeting"). Strategic's shareholders voted in favour of each of the matters considered at the Meeting, including electing each of Sean Cleary, Amyot Choquette, Michael Moore, Mark Serdan and Victor Flores as directors of the Company to hold office for the ensuing year, appointing KPMG LLP as the Company's auditors for the ensuing year and authorizing the board of directors to set their remuneration and approving Strategic's incentive plans described in the Information Circular.

About Strategic Resources

Strategic Resources Inc. (TSXV: SR) is a critical mineral development company focused on becoming a supplier of green steel inputs. The Company has a planned metallurgical facility site in Canada and high-purity iron, and vanadium and titanium projects in Canada and Finland. The Company is developing its flagship BlackRock Project, which is a fully permitted and ready to construct mine, concentrator and metallurgical facility located at a deep seaport in Quebec with full access to the St. Lawrence Seaway. Phase 1 of the BlackRock project envisages a 4 million tonne per year high-purity iron ore pelletizer in Port Saguenay. The Company's Head Office is in Montreal, Quebec.

Further details are available on the Company's website at https://strategic-res.com/. To follow future news releases, please sign up at https://strategic-res.com/contact/.

Follow us on: Twitter or Linkedin.

STRATEGIC RESOURCES INC.

Signed: "Sean Cleary"

Sean Cleary, CEO & Director

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.

SOURCE Strategic Resources Inc.
DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo (MP), today met with members of the Diplomatic Corps accredited to Tanzania, marking the first meeting since the formation of the new Government of the Sixth Phase, Second Term, following the general elections of October 2025.

During the meeting, Minister Kombo assured the Ambassadors and high commissioners of Tanzania's continued cooperation with their respective countries and the organizations they represent.

Tanzanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs delivers briefing to members of the Diplomatic Corps.

In turn, the Ambassadors reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration with Tanzania. The minister stated that this mutual commitment demonstrates the maturity of Tanzania's diplomacy and the strong ties with its development partners.

The Government also briefed the Ambassadors on the overall conduct of the elections and events that occurred on 29 October 2025. Despite the unrest, the government informed the diplomats of the steps taken thereafter, including restoring peace, ensuring the safety of people and their property, and safeguarding the continuity of public services and economic activities. The Minister further explained the establishment of a Commission of Inquiry by the President to investigate the causes of those events and prevent similar incidents in the future.

Minister Kombo informed the ambassadors that Tanzania has gone through an unprecedented and difficult period. Despite these challenges, the government and the people of Tanzania are now focused on healing the nation and fostering unity, brotherhood, and solidarity.

The government will ensure a thorough assessment is conducted and necessary measures are taken, including dialogue, accountability, and institutional strengthening, to prevent recurrence.

Tanzania is aware that various stakeholders have been issuing statements concerning the situation. Many of these statements, while well-intentioned, may inadvertently disrupt or distort the ongoing inquiry. The government urges them to restrain themselves and allow Tanzania to complete the investigation. We respect freedom of expression, but such freedoms must operate within the bounds of responsibility. True to its longstanding tradition, Tanzania remains committed to constructive international cooperation aimed at mutual benefit, peace, and development.

Regarding the European Parliament, the minister noted that Tanzania has followed its recent resolutions. The Government has instructed the Ambassador of the United Republic of Tanzania in Brussels to continue diplomatic consultations with institutions of the European Union and other relevant stakeholders, to continue strengthening cooperation and advancing shared interests.

Issued by; Government Communications Unit

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2834570/Tanzania_Ministry.jpg

SOURCE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation
The Inner Circle acknowledges, Diane Nussbaum as a Pinnacle Professional Member Inner Circle of Excellence.

WEST BERLIN, N.J., Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Diane Nussbaum is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Professional Member Inner Circle of Excellence for her contributions to A Legacy of Excellence in Pastry and Community Engagement.

Diane Nussbaum

Diane Nussbaum, executive pastry chef and founder of Diane's La Patisserie, has been a cornerstone of the culinary industry since establishing her renowned bakery in 1986. Her passion for wedding cakes and vegan pastries has solidified her reputation as a leader in the field, earning her the Best of Philly Award five times. She has also recently won the Visionaries Award for Excellence in Leadership and Impact on Driving Innovation in Business Contributions from the CXO.2 Conference.

Before embarking on her culinary journey, Ms. Nussbaum dedicated a decade to education as a reading specialist, working at Roslyn Elementary, Hamilton Avenue Elementary, and Willow Hill Elementary. Her transition to the world of pastry was sparked by a move to Naples, Italy, during her husband's military service, where she was inspired by the art of European baking. Upon returning to the U.S., she discovered a newfound talent in baking, eventually turning a small venture into a thriving business.

A graduate of Temple University, Ms. Nussbaum holds a bachelor's degree in elementary education and a master's degree in education with a specialization as a reading specialist. She is a member of Les Dames d'Escoffier of Philadelphia and Women's Culinary Group in Philadelphia. She has dedicated her time to teaching baking classes at The Bancroft School for Disabled Adults, local Sisterhood groups, and the Katz JCC. Her philanthropic efforts reflect her deep commitment to community involvement and education.

Looking ahead, Ms. Nussbaum aims to expand her business while pursuing two passion projects: establishing a baking school for children and completing a biographical cookbook that explores Jewish heritage through baking and cooking. With a career spanning four decades, she remains dedicated to passing down her expertise and love for pastry to future generation

Contact: Katherine Green, 516-825-5634, [email protected]

SOURCE The Inner Circle
HONG KONG, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- ViaBTC announced a donation of HKD 3 million to the Hong Kong SAR Government to aid emergency relief and community reconstruction following the fire incident at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po. The contribution aims to assist affected residents in restoring normal lives as quickly as possible.

ViaBTC Founder and CEO Haipo Yang expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, stating:"We extend our heartfelt condolences to the victims and pay the highest respect to the firefighters and rescue personnel who bravely stood on the frontlines."

He emphasized that ViaBTC will closely monitor the recovery efforts and remains committed to collaborating with all parties to help residents rebuild their homes and overcome the challenges ahead.

About ViaBTC

Founded in 2016, ViaBTC is a premier global mining pool and innovative blockchain platform trusted by over 1.7 million users worldwide. Today, it ranks among the top three pools globally for BTC, BCH, LTC, DOGE, and KAS mining, serving a diverse international community of miners.

SOURCE Viabtc Technology Limited
News / National

by Staff reporter

Zimbabwe is experiencing a dramatic surge in demand for cement, driven by a combination of extensive government infrastructure programmes and a robust construction industry meeting growing needs for housing, commercial, and industrial space. The increase in demand has temporarily outstripped supply, prompting investors to establish new cement factories to close the gap.The country's existing cement plants, some of which date back to before independence, have been modernising and expanding, while newer factories have also come online. Despite these developments, demand has consistently exceeded the capacity of the industrial base. Historically, shortages were less about production capacity and more about the need to upgrade equipment, modernise operations, and secure foreign currency to replace outdated machinery. These challenges were common across Zimbabwe's industrial sector.Recent changes in ownership of the largest factory on Harare's eastern outskirts have helped overcome long-standing capital constraints, enabling further modernization. Cement producers have also incorporated environmental improvements into these upgrades, reducing dust and other pollutants while maintaining production efficiency.Zimbabwe's cement industry relies almost entirely on locally sourced raw materials, primarily limestone and clays, which are processed into clinker for Portland-style cement. Additional inputs, such as ash from thermal power stations, are also used. Economically, cement production is most viable when factories are close to markets due to the high cost of transporting bulky products, whether bagged cement or pre-mixed concrete.The Second Republic's investment-friendly policies have attracted significant interest from domestic and international investors. Several Chinese companies are developing new cement plants in Mount Hampden, Chegutu, Hurungwe, and Hwange, strategically located near abundant raw material deposits. The first of these new factories is expected to begin delivering cement sales early next year.This month, Africa's largest cement manufacturer, the Dangote Group, announced plans for a major investment in Zimbabwe following a visit by founder Aliko Dangote. The investment, signed off under President Mnangagwa's administration, will focus on primary industries, including cement production, allowing work to commence immediately.While imports from Zambia have temporarily mitigated supply gaps, rising domestic demand in Zambia limits their long-term availability for Zimbabwe. Government-sanctioned private-sector imports can supplement supply when needed, but local production remains the most cost-effective solution due to lower transport costs and proximity to markets.The expansion of Zimbabwe's cement industry is expected to increase competition, improve efficiency, and enable manufacturers to offer more affordable prices. Lessons from Zambia's Dangote factory show that modern, large-scale production can end shortages, stimulate construction growth, and make cement more accessible to both large developers and ordinary citizens.Beyond government projects, demand is also rising from private developers and individuals seeking to build homes in urban and rural areas. New factories will be well-positioned to meet this growing demand, ensuring that multiple suppliers in the market mitigate the risk of supply disruptions and create a competitive environment that benefits consumers.With the expansion of cement production capacity, Zimbabwe is poised to sustain its infrastructure boom while supporting affordable construction, a key component of the nation's broader development strategy.
News / National

by Staff reporter

Speaker of the National Assembly Jacob Mudenda has disclosed that he has formally written to President Emmerson Mnangagwa, raising concern over Cabinet ministers who continue to miss parliamentary question-and-answer sessions.Mudenda made the announcement in Parliament yesterday after yet another round of apologies was submitted by ministers who failed to attend the session."I have written a letter to the President and I have clearly indicated that if those honourable members in the Executive do not respond accordingly  including responding to motions and reports of committees  we shall have no option but to invoke sections of the standing orders in terms of contempt of Parliament," Mudenda said.The Speaker's stance is supported by constitutional provisions that mandate ministerial accountability to the Legislature.Section 139(d) of the Constitution empowers senators and MPs to question ministers and deputy ministers during parliamentary sessions, while section 107(2) obliges all vice-presidents, ministers and deputy ministers to attend Parliament and appear before committees to respond to questions from legislators.For years, MPs have complained about the frequent and deliberate absenteeism of ministers from the House, arguing that it undermines parliamentary oversight and accountability.Mudenda's letter signals escalating frustration within Parliament as the Executive continues to disregard its constitutional duty to answer directly to the representatives of the people.
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
News / National

by Staff reporter

A Harare magistrate has relaxed the bail conditions for Zimbabwe Independent editor Faith Zaba, who is facing charges of undermining President Emmerson Mnangagwa under section 33 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act.Magistrate Apollonia Marutya ruled yesterday that Zaba will now report to the police once every fortnight instead of every Friday, following delays in the commencement of her trial.Zaba and the publication's publisher, Alpha Media Holdings (AMH)  represented in court by editor-in-chief Kholwani Nyathi  are being prosecuted over a June Muckraker column that the State claims insulted or undermined the authority of the President.The relaxation of bail conditions follows a procedural blunder by the State at the most recent court sitting. Prosecutor Lawrence Gangarahwe applied for a postponement after admitting that the authority letter supplied to the defence was defective, as it was not issued by the Prosecutor-General, Justice Loice Matanda-Moyo, as required by law. Instead, it had been signed by the National Prosecuting Authority's chief director.The State sought a two-week adjournment to secure the proper certificate.However, defence lawyer Chris Mhike vigorously objected, accusing the prosecution of dishonesty and deliberately stalling the case in violation of Zaba and AMH's constitutional rights. He argued that the authority letter was "highly dubious", noting that although it was dated October 20, it was stamped October 30  an inconsistency he said suggested either carelessness or intentional misrepresentation.Mhike insisted that the charge itself was baseless, describing the arrest as an attack on Press freedom. He submitted that the column in question was clearly satire and opinion  forms of expression protected under the law. The defence argued that the allegations did not constitute a criminal offence and that the State's witness documents failed to demonstrate any intent to undermine the President.The State maintains that the June 27 column, titled When We Become a Mafia State, was designed to incite hostility towards President Mnangagwa by alleging that Zimbabwe was interfering in neighbouring countries' politics and was "obsessed with keeping itself in power."The matter is expected to resume on December 3.
News / National

by Staff reporter

In a widely anticipated development with major political implications for Zanu PF's internal succession battles and President Emmerson Mnangagwa's push to extend his influence beyond 2028, Lieutenant-General Emmanuel Matatu has been promoted to the rank of General and appointed commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF), effective 21 November 2025.The appointment follows the retirement of long-serving ZDF commander General Philip Valerio Sibanda. Government insiders say Sibanda is expected to enter active politics and is a strong contender for the Defence minister post in an upcoming cabinet reshuffle. Mnangagwa attempted to appoint Sibanda to the Zanu PF politburo in 2023, but the move was blocked on constitutional grounds.Alongside Matatu's elevation, Major-General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi has been promoted to Lieutenant-General and appointed head of the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA). Both men are viewed as close military allies of President Mnangagwa, a factor analysts say strengthens the president's position as he seeks to shape the political landscape toward his much-discussed 2030 project  an attempt to maintain power beyond the constitutionally mandated end of his second term in 2028.The restructuring of the military command comes months after Mnangagwa removed former ZDF commander Lieutenant-General Anseleem Sanyatwe, who was believed to be aligned with Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga's succession ambitions. Sanyatwe's removal occurred ahead of planned anti-government protests orchestrated by war veterans aligned to Chiwenga, underlining the deep factional struggles within the ruling party.The latest appointments entrench Mnangagwa's control over the armed forces, weakening Chiwenga's historical military backing and complicating his path to the presidency. Since the 2017 military intervention that propelled Mnangagwa to power, the army has remained a decisive kingmaker in national politics, its influence stretching far beyond barracks into government ministries, state enterprises, and the ruling party's structures.Zimbabwe's military establishment has long acted as a guarantor of Zanu PF's dominance and a decisive force in succession dynamics. With numerous retired officers occupying senior roles across the state, the line between political authority and military influence has blurred further, reinforcing a power system in which the armed forces remain central to determining leadership outcomes.Matatu's elevation, analysts say, continues this pattern and signals Mnangagwa's determination to consolidate power ahead of the next transition moment  one that increasingly appears contested within Zimbabwe's ruling elite.
News / National

by Stephen Jakes

HARARE  Environmental degradation caused by artisanal mining across Zimbabwe is posing a severe threat to water security, according to a report tabled in Parliament by the Thematic Committee on Peace and Security.

The report, which assessed Governments preparedness for recurring droughts, highlighted how water quality and infrastructure have been compromised by illegal mining activities, streambank cultivation and settlements in upper catchment areas.Environmental degradation poses a severe threat to water security. Water quality and infrastructure were severely compromised by artisanal mining activities, for example Nyanyadzi, illegal settlements in upper catchment areas for example Insukamini, and streambank cultivation, which cause siltation and pump damage, the report stated.Beyond crop production, farmers are also facing external shocks such as livestock diseases. The outbreak of January disease at Tokwane Ngundu was cited as having decimated draught animal power, crippling tillage capacity. The report further warned of growing competition for land and water resources from the mining sector.It noted that the discovery of lithium deposits near Marovanyati Dam threatens to curtail agricultural land and water allocation in potential irrigable areas.On funding and project management, the committee said inconsistent and unreliable financing remains a major impediment to progress. Irrigation schemes such as Negomo and Mtshabezi have stalled after donor support was withdrawn or promised Government allocations failed to materialise.Dam projects have also been delayed by reorganisation challenges, including compensation and relocation of households and graves. This has hindered the completion of major projects such as Kunzvi, Muchekeranwa, and GwayiShangani, delaying the realisation of their intended benefits.The report further highlighted a significant knowledge gap in climate change adaptation strategies. Most irrigation schemes lack programmes focused on afforestation and sustainable land management to improve microclimates and reduce erosion.While awareness of solar power is growing, the committee noted limited interest in exploring other renewable energy solutions such as wind power, which could provide alternative sources for irrigation.
Donald Trump used a late-night Thanksgiving message to deploy an offensive slur against a political rival before announcing he wants to pause migration from all Third World Countries.

Trump began his rambling post with a happy Thanksgiving greeting, but it quickly devolved into an anti-immigration ragepost, blaming American Citizens and Patriots who have been so nice in allowing our Country to be divided, disrupted, carved up.

Trump said he would permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries in the wake of the fatal shooting in Washington, D.C., in which the suspected gunman is an Afghan national.

President Donald Trump participates in a call with U.S. service members from his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida on Thanksgiving Day on November 27, 2025 in Palm Beach, Florida. / Pete Marovich / Getty Images

The 79-year-old was also fuming about a familiar talking pointSomaliawhen he used the slur against Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Complaining on Truth Social about America being Politically Correct over immigration policies, the president then circled back on his plans to terminate the temporary protected status for Somalis in Minnesota.

The president had earlier in the evening told reporters that Somalians have caused a lot of trouble, and Were not taking their people anymore. Were getting a lot of their people out because theyre nothing but trouble.

Last week, Trump claimed Minnesota is a hub of fraudulent money laundering activity and said he wanted the Somalis living there sent back to where they came from.

Trump wrote on Thursday that there were hundreds of thousands of refugees from Somalia, completely taking over Minnesota.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz speaks to media gathered on the first day of school at Deerwood Elementary on September 2, 2025 in Eagan, Minnesota. / Stephen Maturen / Getty Images

Somalian gangs are roving the streets looking for prey as our wonderful people stay locked in their apartments and houses hoping against hope that they will be left alone, Trump claimed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The seriously ret---ed Governor of Minnesota, Tim Walz, does nothing, either through fear, incompetence, or both, Trump wrote.

Walz reposted Trumps offensive post on his X account, adding the caption Release the MRI results.

Since Trump admitted he had an MRI scan at his medical check-up last month, but did not say what the scan was for, debate has raged about the presidents cognitive decline.

Part two of Donald Trump's Truth Social rant. / Truth Social

Not content with insulting Walz, Trump then unleashed on Minnesota Democrat Rep. Ilhan Omar, who was born in Somalia but has lived in the U.S. for 30 years.

The president labeled her the worst Congressman/woman in our Country and said she was always wrapped in her swaddling hijab.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He claimed Omar does nothing but hatefully complain about our Country... and how badly she is treated, calling her place of origin a decadent, backward, and crime ridden nation.

The Daily Beast has contacted Walzs and Omars offices for comment.

Ilhan Omar attends the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation annual Legislative Conference Phoenix Awards dinner at Walter E. Washington Convention Center on September 27, 2025 in Washington, DC. / Leigh Vogel / Getty Images for Congressional B

Trump has blamed former President Joe Bidens immigration policy for the arrival of the Afghan national who is the suspect in Wednesdays fatal shooting in Washington, D.C.

The suspect, 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, is an Afghan man who has lived in Washington since 2021 after fleeing the Taliban takeover of the country. CNN reported that he had applied for asylum in 2024, and it was granted by the Trump administration in April 2025.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

During a press conference on Thursday, Trump called a female reporter stupid when she said his Department of Justice this year reported there had been thorough vetting by the DHS and FBI of Afghans who had entered the U.S.

When directly asked if the suspect was granted asylum under his watch, Trump dodged the question, saying, When it comes to asylum, when theyre flown in, its very hard to get them out, no matter how you want to do its very hard to get them out, but were going to be getting them all out.

President Donald Trump participates in a call with U.S. service members from his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida on Thanksgiving Day on November 27, 2025 in Palm Beach, Florida. / Pete Marovich / Getty Images

Trumps Thursday night Truth Social screed followed suit, adding that America and certain other foolish countries were being just plain STUPID when it comes to immigration.

Claiming that most immigrants in the U.S. are on welfare, from failed nations or from prisons, mental institutions, gangs, or drug cartels, Trump said they were being supported through massive welfare payments from patriotic Americans, who, because of their beautiful hearts, do not want to openly complain or cause trouble in any way, shape, or form.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump then made his threat to permanently pause migration from all Third World countries, claiming it would allow the U.S. system to fully recover.

Trump also said his administration planned to deport any Foreign National who is a public charge, security risk, or non-compatible with Western Civilization.

He noted that only REVERSE MIGRATION can fully cure this situation.

Members of law enforcement and National Guard soldiers respond to a shooting near the White House on November 26, 2025 in Washington, D.C. / Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images

Earlier on Thursday, Trump ordered a review of all green card holders who came from countries of concern.

I have directed a full-scale, rigorous reexamination of every Green Card for every alien from every country of concern, Citizenship and Immigration Services Director Joseph Edlow said Thursday afternoon in a statement on X.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Trump appointee stated, The protection of this country and of the American people remains paramount, and the American people will not bear the cost of the prior administrations reckless resettlement policies. American safety is non-negotiable.

Trumps Thursday post ended with the line, Other than that, HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL, except those that hate, steal, murder, and destroy everything that America stands for  You wont be here for long!
The brunt of a multi-day winter storm was set to hit central Ontario's snowbelt on Thursday with squalls expected to extend power outages and disrupt travel across large parts of the province.

Up to 50 centimetres of snow was possible for areas off Georgian Bay, including Barrie, and even more for the region south of Owen Sound, Environment Canada said.

The heaviest snowfall was expected to start Thursday night with the storm lingering into Saturday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Environment Canada meteorologist Steven Flisfeder warned that snow squalls can result in poor visibility for drivers. Even if someone is driving from a relatively snow-free area, they can quickly find themselves in dangerous conditions, he said.

"When you add in the winds, that adds to visibility reductions with any blowing snow as well," he added.

Toronto was expected to be mostly spared, but the forecast said Hamilton and the outskirts of the Greater Toronto Area, from Milton wrapping around to Oshawa, could see between five and 15 centimetres and strong winds.

The London area could see totals exceeding 15 centimetres, Environment Canada said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Flisfeder said the mix of heavy snowfall and wind gusts can bring down small tree limbs onto power lines.

Thousands of customers were without power on Thursday afternoon, according to Hydro One.

The utility said on its website that crews were responding to outages "as quickly and safely as possible," but it reported local road conditions in some areas had delayed its crews.

Hydro One spokesperson Tiziana Baccega Rosa said anyone who is affected by an outage and assessing damage around their home should be careful and aware of their surroundings.

It is best practice to stay at least ten metres away from any downline and report it to Hydro One or a local utility, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Baccega Rosa said given that the severe weather may continue for a few more days, people are encouraged to have an emergency preparedness kit ready. This includes items like water, non-perishable food items, batteries and portable chargers and flashlights.

"There's still an opportunity to gather those items so that if an outage were to occur, you have what you need on hand to shelter in place," she said.

Further east off Lake Ontario, wind gusts were expected to top out around 70 or 80 kilometres an hour, and possibly higher in Prince Edward County.

The forecast suggested winds were expected to let up in those areas later Thursday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Major snowfall had already buried parts of northern Ontario, blanketing roads and shutting down a stretch of Highway 655 south of Cochrane.

Another 10 to 20 centimetres was possible on Thursday to bring totals up to an expected 60 centimetres in parts of northeastern Ontario.

A winter storm warning remained in place from Wawa to Timmins, and as far north as Moosonee.

It was expected to ease up Thursday night near Lake Superior, but continue into Friday morning for areas closer to the Quebec border.

It is "on the rarer side" for an event like this to happen so early in the year in southern Ontario, Flisfeder said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But it is not unheard of, he said, noting a similar storm around this time last year covered parts of eastern Georgian Bay through Gravenhurst and Bracebridge with over a hundred centimeters of snow in a few days.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 27, 2025.

Jordan Omstead and Fatima Raza, The Canadian Press
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth does not know who the military is killing in strikes against drug boats off the coast of Venezuela, a report has alleged.

People familiar with classified briefings tell The New York Times that the military has abandoned its typical approach of targeting confirmed adversaries and is instead blowing up vessels without knowing precisely who it is hitting.

The strikes are not total shots in the dark, the Times sources noted. It reports that the military knows that someone on the boats has a connection to a drug cartel, and it has some level of confidence that drugs are on the vessels.

Donald Trump shared a video on Truth Social on Oct. 14, 2025, of a strike on a vessel off the coast of Venezuela. / @realDonaldTrump/TruthSocial

However, critics like Rep. Jim Himes, the top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, say the strikes are eliminating, at best, low-level members of a drug cartel.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

And at worst, those killed are fishermen caught in the wrong place at the wrong time.

The Trump administration has targeted alleged members of Venezuelas Tren de Aragua gang. Venezuelan nationals made up the majority of those who were abruptly flown to El Salvador in March to be put in a high-security mega-prison without due process. / Anadolu / El Salvador Presidency / Handout/Anadolu via Getty Images

Traditionally, our counternarcotics efforts have always been targeted at the head of the snake, Himes told the Times. This is obviously the opposite of that. Now were going after the tail... Were going after some, you know, poor ex-fishermen who took $300 to run a load of cocaine to Trinidad.

Himes believes blowback for the strikes, which President Donald Trump has proudly shared clips of since they began in September, will outweigh any positive effect they may have in slowing the narcotics trade.

Theyre the street-corner hustlers, Himes said of those killed. And if the United States is sending the signal that life doesnt matter, thats coming back to us, that is absolutely coming back to us.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Reached for comment, the Pentagon told the Daily Beast it can confirm that those killed are all narco-terrorists.

We have consistently said that our intelligence did indeed confirm that the individuals involved in these drug operations were narco-terrorists, and we stand by that assessment, said Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell in an email.

The strikes are just a part of the growing tensions between President Donald Trump and Venezuelas Nicolas Maduro. / Truth Social / Truth Social

Supporters of the initiative noted that killing unconfirmed targets is not entirely new for the Pentagon. Strikes against suspectedbut not confirmedterrorists were common during the Obama administration; they became known as signature strikes because they were based on behavior that appeared terror-related.

The strikes off the Venezuelan coast have killed at least 80 people, none of whom are believed to be high-level cartel members.

The Times writes of the situation, Lessons of the long war against terrorism appear to have been cast aside as the Trump administration.
Chinese culture night in Kuwait showcases food, music, Mandarin language

Xinhua) 08:11, November 28, 2025

People attend the Chinese culture night event at the Chinese Embassy in Kuwait in Hawalli Governorate, Kuwait, Nov. 26, 2025. A Chinese culture night featuring food, music and Mandarin activities was held on Wednesday at the Chinese Embassy in Kuwait. (Photo by Asad/Xinhua)

KUWAIT CITY, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese culture night featuring food, music and Mandarin activities was held on Wednesday at the Chinese Embassy in Kuwait.

The event brought together cultural displays, culinary stations, and language-themed performances, offering local audiences an immersive experience of both traditional and contemporary Chinese culture.

A series of stage performances formed the highlight of the evening, showcasing the accomplishments of Chinese-language learners in Kuwait. A children's choir opened the performance with Let's Paddle Together, followed by a piano rendition of The Butterfly Lovers. The students also recited classic Chinese poetry and delivered speeches on their personal experiences in China.

People enjoy Chinese traditional instrumental works during the Chinese culture night event at the Chinese Embassy in Kuwait in Hawalli Governorate, Kuwait, Nov. 26, 2025. (Photo by Asad/Xinhua)

Additional performances included a duet of Iron, Blood and Loyal Heart, a XiangSheng (crosstalk) piece, a recital titled The Chinese Language and a Hanfu show. The program concluded with traditional instrumental works by musicians from the China Conservatory of Music.

Alongside the performances, cultural workshops allowed visitors to experience Chinese craftsmanship. Participants tried lacquer fan making, lantern crafting, Song-brocade wind chime assembly and Miao-silver ornament magnet design. A calligraphy station offered guests personalised name cards written by teachers, while a tea-art booth introduced traditional tea preparation methods.

Food also drew significant crowds, with five culinary stations presenting classic Chinese dishes and snacks to highlight the regional diversity of Chinese cuisine.

People enjoy Chinese food during the Chinese culture night event at the Chinese Embassy in Kuwait in Hawalli Governorate, Kuwait, Nov. 26, 2025. (Photo by Asad/Xinhua)

Liu Xiang, charge d'affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Kuwait, said at the event that the program aims to use food as a bridge and culture as a link to deepen mutual understanding between the peoples of the two countries.

He noted that China stands ready to work with Kuwait to strengthen exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations, carry forward traditional friendship, and contribute to building a community with a shared future for mankind.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
About Sisters of the Jungle: "Since the 1970s, the science of primatology has been dominated by womena unique reversal, with men usually outnumbering women in other science, technology, engineering and math fields. Sisters of the Jungle shines a light on a scientific discipline in which women take the lead while transporting readers to the far corners of the earth to understand our closest living relatives. Keriann McGoogans journey as a primatologist has taken her to Belize and Madagascar studying wild primates, including howler monkeys (the loudest living primate) and lemurs (the most endangered group of animals on the planet). Against this backdrop, she explores the stories of the many women who came before her. Intrepid scientists like Jane Goodall, Dian Fossey, Birute Galdikas and Alison Jolly broke boundaries, made astonishing discoveries and ultimately shaped the trajectory of an entire branch of science." About Other Evolutions: "With sharp human insight and unflinching prose, Other Evolutions is O. Henry Prize-winning author Rebecca Hirsch Garcias dark, speculative debut, perfect for readers of Iain Reid and Emily St. John Mandel. Alma Alt, the sheltered youngest daughter of an interfaith, interracial Jewish-Mexican couple, rarely ventures far from her home on a wealthy tree-lined street in Ottawa, where nothing ever happens. The one time she did, striking out to visit her older sister, Marnie, in Montreal, things ended in disaster as she found out that beautiful, blonde Marnie had been lying about their familys background, trying to pass herself off as white. The fallout from that betrayal leads to a devastating accident, one that claims Almas arm and someones life. Alma is now stuck in a holding pattern, unable to move past her grief. But Almas life is turned upside down by an encounter just steps from home with an impossible person: the boy she watched die."

Gas in the Tank

Slo' Tom and The Handsome Devils - Just a Poet

Lynne Hanson - Just a Poet - Just a Poet AIR 2025

Jim Bryson - Still The Mighty - Still The Mighty All Broken (feat. Amanda June)

Wilhaeven - Still the Mighty - Still the Mighty - and the days are short again

Furnace Face - Still the Mighty - Still the Mighty Arrival

Kathryn Patricia Cobbler - Still the Mighty - Still the Mighty Clarity

Pony Girl - Still the Mighty - Still the Mighty Dans l'fond du Canada

Hey, Wow! - Still the Mighty - Still the Mighty Eastern Birds

Tin Constellations - Still the Mighty - Still the Mighty Just don't get it

Church of Trees - Still the Mighty - Still the Mighty Four Horsemen

Black Foot Trio - Still the Mighty - Still the Mighty l'Epee de Damocles

Durs Coeurs - Still the Mighty - Still the Mighty La Tempete

Julie Stella - Still the Mighty - Still the Mighty Blood Orange - Sunset Village (Blood Orange Remix)

Beverly Glenn Copeland - Keyboard Fantasies Reimagined - Keyboard Fantasies Reimagined Kelsey Lu - Ever New (Kelsey Lu's Transportation)

Beverly Glenn Copeland - Keyboard Fantasies Reimagined - Keyboard Fantasies Reimagined
The recent U.S. maritime strikes against Venezuelan drug boats under Operation Southern Spear have drawn familiar outrage from elites in academia and the media. These critics insist that if the Venezuelan drug boats are legitimate military targets, President Trump needs congressional authorization to strike them. And if theyre merely criminal enterprises, President Trump should respond with law enforcement, not missiles. The concern is not limited to Washington: the United Kingdom has reportedly paused certain intelligence sharing over fears that it could be used to potentially violate international law. These objections fundamentally misperceive the nature of the threat.

To understand why the administration has the legal and moral authority to act militarily, we need to first understand the target. What the United States faces in the Caribbean is not ordinary crime. Its a hybrid, state-sponsored campaign that blends narcotics trafficking, terrorism, and covert warfare.

The evidence is compelling: Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro and others in his vast apparatus are central figures in the narcoterrorist group Cartel de los Soles. The Cartel de los Soles is no small enterprise. Its a sprawling network embedded in the Venezuelan state itself. According to Insight Crime, the cartel operates with members of the presidential family, congressmen, and other corrupt officials and uses its connections at the highest levels to protect its members and its interests.

Put simply, this is not crime the Maduro regime tolerates  it is crime the Maduro regime runs.

Cartel de los Soles poses a direct threat to Americans. In 2020, federal prosecutors in the Southern District of New York charged Adel El Zabayar, a former Venezuelan lawmaker and close ally of the Maduro regime, with brokering arms-for-drugs deals with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) guerrillas. El Zabayar also recruited operatives from Hezbollah and Hamas, who were brought to Venezuela to train, procure weapons (including anti-tank rockets) and ultimately form a large terrorist cell capable of attacking United States interests, all with the blessing of Maduros right-hand man, Diosdado Cabello.

Cabello is widely considered the regimes real power broker  arguably more influential than Maduro himself. If the man calling the shots is brokering deals with designated terrorist organizations to acquire weapons and plan attacks against Americans, then this is no longer a law-enforcement problem. When a regime fuses its security services with terrorist networks and transnational cartels, it crosses the line from criminality into armed hostilityand U.S. self-defense is not optional but necessary.

Evidence goes beyond a single indictment. While former President Hugo Chavez first opened Venezuelas doors to Hezbollah in the early 2000s, Hezbollahs presence has grown rapidly under Maduro  as have its ties to the Cartel de los Soles. The 2024 Annual Threat Assessment of the U.S. Intelligence Community warns that Hezbollah maintains the capability to target U.S. persons and interests worldwide, and to a lesser extent, in the United States. That such a network, entrenched in the Western Hemisphere, could use drug trafficking and terrorist training camps as cover for operations against the U.S. is not speculation  it is intelligence fact. To view this as a local crime problem rather than a transregional threat is to ignore the intelligence the U.S. government itself has made public.

Although the Cartel de los Soles deals primarily in cocaine rather than fentanyl, the Trump Administration correctly understands all narcotics are weapons in a campaign of asymmetric warfare against the health, morale, and cohesion of American society. Between 2020 and 2023, more Americans died each year from synthetic opioids than died during the entire Vietnam War. This is not traditional crime, but rather war by other means. A military response is both proportionate and justified.

There is ample historical precedent and legal justification for the President authorizing targeted military action without congressional approval, including by President Trump during his first term, to defend against threats to the American people or U.S. interests. The President, as Commander in Chief of the U.S. military, is vested with this authority under Article II Section II of the Constitution. These precedents include the 2018 airstrikes on Syrian chemical-weapons facilities, which targeted production and storage sites following repeated attacks on civilians, and the 2020 strike against Qassem Soleimani in Iraq to protect U.S. forces and deter further Iranian attacks. Operation Southern Spear fits well within this same legal and operational framework.

What is unfolding in the Caribbean is not a law-enforcement matter. It is a confrontation with a dictatorship that has integrated itself with terrorist networks, collaborates with groups sworn to Americas destruction, funds itself through American suffering, and cynically blurs the boundary between criminal enterprise and covert warfare.

Caution, in this context, is not virtue  it is risk. We cannot wait for these cartels to kill another million Americans. A hostile regime in our hemisphere has chosen to make war against us, and America has every right -- and every obligation -- to defend itself.

Melissa Ford Maldonado is the director of the Western Hemisphere Initiative at America First Policy Institute.
If you're also dreading the cold that winter brings, my favorite airlines, Alaska Airlines, is offering us a much needed escape plan! For Black Friday 2025, Alaska Airlines has 30% off flights to Latin America, Tahiti, the Cook Islands, or American Samoa using using discount code BF2025. The sale ends November 29, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

With Alaska's recent merger with Hawaiian Airlines, the options for destinations have blossomed. The merger introduced five new international routes for Alaska Airlines, as well as giving Alaska loyalists like myself access to destinations that have been lovingly served by Hawaiian for decades. And now you can see those destinations yourself at 30% off this season!

Where to Fly:

However, as with any deal, there are some specifics your travel must fall under in order for the discount code to be valid. Some destinations require certain days of the week to fly in or out, and all travel must be completed within a certain time frame. Based on the specifications below, then enter your departure and arrival cities and travel dates then enter BF2025 in the discount code field, and then click Find Flights to start your search.

Latin America (Mexico, Costa Rica, Belize, Guatemala)

To: Sundays through Wednesdays

From: Tuesdays through Fridays

Travel dates: January 6 - March 18, 2026

Blackout dates: January 15 - 20, 2026, and February 12 - 17, 2026

Tahiti, French Polynesia (PPT)

To & From: Tuesdays and Saturdays

Travel dates: January 17 - April 21, 2026

Blackout dates: To - February 21 & April 11, 2026 | From - February 14, 2026, March 21 & 28, 2026

Rarotonga, Cook Islands (RAR)

To & From: Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays

Travel dates: December 6, 2025 - March 17, 2026

Blackout dates: To - December 20, 2025 | From - December 28, 2025 - January 4, 2026

Pago Pago, American Samoa (PPG)

To: Tuesdays and Thursdays

From: Tuesdays

Travel dates: December 2, 2025 - March 17, 2026

Blackout dates: To - December 16 & 26, 2025, and January 6 & 8, 2026 | From - December 16, 2025

More Fine Print:
The International Monetary Fund, in its report on the Indian economy, said the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) Amendment Bill addresses many deficiencies but it has not provided for the participation of operational creditors or rules for executory contracts.

Illustration: Dominic Xavier/Rediff

The IMF staff report said that the business dynamism in India remains relatively low, marked by low rates of entry and exit, and a high share of inactive or inefficient firms reflecting structural rigidities and high compliance levels.

The persistence of zombie firms may reflect issues with forbearance lending, inefficient insolvency resolution, and exit mechanisms, IMF said.

IMF said that among continuously operating firms, a significant share  15 per cent  qualifies as zombie firms, which do not generate enough earnings to cover their interest expenses but continue to operate, mostly with very low levels of productivity.

On the IBC Bill, the report noted that operational creditors still lack the right to vote on a resolution plan or other governance rights.

It said, No rules are provided for executory contracts. Such rules would make it more likely that business operations could be restructured rather than sold.

Indian authorities told the IMF that they anticipated the recent IBC Amendment Bill to expedite the bankruptcy resolution process.

IMFs report highlighted that the recovery rates for financial creditors in successful corporate resolutions declined from 43 per cent in March 2019 to 33 per cent in June 2025.

The pre-admission delays  the time between filing of the insolvency application and the opening of the case  have worsened, with operational creditors facing an average wait of 650 days in 2022 compared to 450 days in 2019, the IMF noted.

The report estimated entry and exit rates of firms in India at less than 1 per cent, far below the 8 to 13 per cent annual rates typically observed in economies like the US, European countries, Republic of Korea and Chile.

The report had said that the legislative reforms being undertaken by the government should be complemented by efforts to strengthen judicial capacity through dedicated tribunal benches and adequate funding, along with operationalising the personal insolvency regime.

Such persistence of inefficient firms likely reflects structural rigidities in Indias business environment, including weak insolvency resolution and limited access to exit mechanisms, IMF said.

It added that low entry rates may reflect the high regulatory compliance burdens that discourage entry into the formal sector.

The Fund said that the government should undertake reforms to improve credit allocation in the financial sector to help reallocate resources to more productive firms
Major fund houses report a sharp rise in online transactions, driven by changing investor habits, distributor behaviour, and fast-growing fintech platforms.

Illustration: Dominic Xavier/Rediff

Filling up physical forms, visiting mutual fund offices, and calling on other offline means of investing have increasingly become the domain of a smaller set of investors at many large MFs, compared to 12 to 13 years ago when it accounted for the majority of transactions.

HDFC Asset Management Company share of electronic transactions rose to 96 per cent for September 2025 from 93 per cent a year ago.

Nippon India's September 2025 investor presentation puts the half-yearly share of digital transactions at 75 per cent from 70 per cent in September 2024, and 56 per cent a year earlier.

Quarterly online gross sales as a percentage of total gross sales in UTI Mutual Fund dipped to 89.52 per cent from 94.4 per cent in the same period of 2024.

But sales through digital platforms for hybrid and equity schemes rose to 41.27 per cent from 37.61 per cent earlier.

Every asset manager may define paperless transactions differently, and the numbers may not be comparable across fund houses.

But they can be considered broadly indicative of the trend.

Saugata Chatterjee, president and chief business officer at Nippon India Mutual Fund, suggested that some of the growth in digital transactions is not only attributed to changing customer behaviour but also to changes in the behaviour of distributors and other intermediaries.

In addition to traditional distributors, sub-brokers now also rely significantly on technology and the exchange platform for their transactions while asset management companies (AMCs) invest in mobile apps, which see continuous innovation to reduce friction and make it easy for customers to do transactions.

Online sources of transactions also formed a part of the latest quarterly earnings calls.

'Over the last couple of years, we have seen significant growth in fintech as a distribution channel. They have emerged as a vital channel for the mutual fund industry. If you look at the last six months or so, they have registered 15 million SIPs,' said HDFC Asset Management Company MD & CEO Navneet Munot in an earnings call with analysts.

'So, what we are seeing at this point of time is that a significant number of these digital platforms are starting to rethink what their approach to business should be in terms of how they want to position themselves... we need to have best-in-class digital assets and digital visibility because otherwise you will not be part of the consideration,' said UTI MD&CEO-designate Vetri Subramaniam in an analysts call.

Digital may account for smaller ticket-size investments, an Association of Mutual Funds in India report showed. While digital accounted for 60 per cent of transactions, it was only 21 per cent in value terms.

Around 45 per cent of transactions were digital in FY13, which accounted for 1 per cent of transaction value.

Many high net worth individuals prefer the physical process, according to Nippon's Chatterjee. This has meant that 70-75 per cent of the value are still through physical means.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff
Indias top cement producers delivered a solid July-September quarter (Q2) in 2025-26 (FY26), lifted by firmer prices, higher sales volumes, and a favourable base.

Image used for representation purpose only. Photograph: Rupak De Chowdhuri/Reuters

Seasonal weakness and maintenance outages did dent sequential performance, but the overall picture remained positive  and the road ahead looks steady.

Realisations improved by Rs 250-300 per tonne year-on-year (Y-o-Y), driven mainly by better cement prices, which helped companies lift their earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortisation (Ebitda) per tonne compared to last year, said Vijay Agrawal, managing director and sector lead-infrastructure at Equirus Capital.

Average all-India cement prices hovered at Rs 355-365 per bag in Q2FY26, up from Rs 330-335 in Q2 of 2024-25 (FY25).

Last years demand was hit by lower government capital expenditure (capex), the general election, and weather disruptions, observed Akshay Shetty, research analyst at Mirae Asset Sharekhan.

Centrum Broking said management commentaries after results pointed to 4-5 per cent Y-o-Y demand growth in Q2 FY26 despite weather-related interruptions.

Stronger rural activity and ongoing construction kept consumption buoyant.

Industry-wide Ebitda per tonne rose to Rs 932, a 41 per cent jump Y-o-Y.

JM Financial reported that industry volumes (like-for-like) grew 7 per cent Y-o-Y in Q2FY26.

Adjusted for acquisitions, consolidated volumes at UltraTech Cement and Ambuja Cements also rose 7 per cent.

JK Cement saw a 15.1 per cent increase, driven by capacity ramp-up and better utilisation.

The aggregate reported Ebitda of our coverage universe (about 75 per cent of industry capacity) rose 53 per cent Y-o-Y, largely on improved pricing, JM Financial said.

The Y-o-Y gains were aided by a low base, new capacities (organic and inorganic), better utilisation, and a richer product mix with higher premium cement sales.

Sequentially, though, performance softened.

The monsoon brought the usual demand dip, while an early festival season skewed buying patterns.

The goods and services tax (GST) rate cut triggered transitional disruptions.

Realisations and Ebitda weakened sequentially due to operating deleverage.

JM Financial estimated that Ebitda for its coverage universe fell 24 per cent quarter-on-quarter (Q-o-Q) to Rs 7,900 crore, mainly because of lower blended realisations.

Blended Ebitda per tonne dipped 18 per cent to Rs 952.

Industry-wide, realisation per tonne edged down 1 per cent Q-o-Q, and volumes fell around 8 per cent.

Pan-Indian cement prices slipped 2.5 per cent, weighed down by seasonality and sharper declines in late September following the GST rate cut, said Sehul Bhatt, director, Crisil Intelligence.

On costs, BOB Capital Markets noted that aggregate cost per tonne rose about 2 per cent Y-o-Y in Q2FY26.

Efficiency gains and a better fuel mix were offset by higher logistics and maintenance expenses.

Petcoke prices climbed Y-o-Y, while monsoon-hit logistics and planned kiln shutdowns pushed costs up about 5 per cent Q-o-Q.

Agrawal added that the industry has finally posted more than 5 per cent organic Y-o-Y growth after nearly six quarters, improving capacity utilisation.

A gradual revival in infrastructure demand  after a pronounced election-led slowdown  supported the pickup.

With this, companies pushed through price hikes of Rs 250300 per tonne across regions, which should bolster Ebitda per tonne in the coming quarters.

Analysts expect the second half to remain strong, helped by post-monsoon recovery, steady private and public capex, and normalising construction activity.

The GST rate cut should aid low- to mid-income housing demand, supporting long-term growth.

Rural demand is also expected to stay firm.

October was soft due to festivals, extended monsoons, labour shortages, and restricted construction activity, but demand is expected to rebound in November and beyond.

In the third quarter of FY26 so far (until November 17), pan-Indian cement prices are up 1 per cent Y-o-Y, according to JM Financial.

Meanwhile, share prices of most large cement companies have been muted in recent months  a trend that could shift if demand strengthens.

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.
'When AI comes in, coders in Bangalore or Hyderabad will lose their jobs.'

Kindly note that this illustration generated using Microsoft Copilot has only been posted for representational purposes.

<

From Nvidia to Microsoft to Alphabet to Open AI to Meta to Amazon, every big to small company and major venture capital firms like Sequoia Capital to Founders Fund to Andreessen Horowitz to Tiger Global is investing big in AI now.

According to Sundar Pichai, the trillion-dollar AI investment had elements of irrationality, and if the AI bubble were to burst, every company would be affected.

Along with this is the news of all the major companies laying off employees in their thousands.

Will the investment in AI result in huge job losses and unemployment, especially in India?

"Once AI becomes more powerful, not just IT services but other jobs like in financial services, legal, media, journalism to name a few, will also get affected. Many white collar Indian workers who do repetitive jobs could become redundant thanks to AI," Saurabh Mukherjea, Founder and Chief Investment Officer, Marcellus Investment Managers, tells Rediff's Shobha Warrier.

One million tech jobs are already lost in 2025 so far which is said to be the worst in decades after the dotcom burst in 2001, global recession in 2008-2009 and the pandemic.

Is the obsession with AI the major or the only reason for the job losses?

Indian IT firms have already announced some layoffs, and there is more to come with AI becoming more powerful.

Once AI becomes more powerful, not just IT services but other jobs like in financial services, legal, media, journalism to name a few, will also get affected.

Many white collar Indian workers who do repetitive jobs could become redundant thanks to AI.

So, the job losses are due to AI?

This is not a new phenomenon. Every 10 years, you see a new wave happening.

Between 2000 and 2010, India's factories got automated. As more and more automation happened, a lot of blue collar jobs were lost.

AI is nothing but automation of offices. Like the automation of the factories resulted in blue collar factory workers losing jobs, automation of the offices will result in white collar office workers losing their jobs.

Photograph: Kind courtesy Nvidia

You said 20 million Indians would lose their jobs before Christmas...

I spoke about 20 million Indians losing jobs in the context of the India-US trade tariffs imposed by the US president, and not AI.

The sectors that are going to be affected by trade tariffs are textiles, leather exports, gems and jewellery, sea food, etc.

Because exports to the US are getting jammed, we will end up with 20 million people losing their jobs unless a Indo-US Free Trade Agreement is signed in the next few weeks.

The amount of money tech companies are investing in AI is huge, and like Sundar Pichai said, if the AI bubble were to burst, all the tech companies would suffer and nobody would escape....

Is there an excessive supply of chips? No, there is a shortage of high-performance GPUs which are needed to power AI processing.

Is there an excessive supply of data centres? Globally, including in India, there is a shortage of data centres.

We have to realise that the world needs much more chips and data centres than what is currently available.

Then we come to the Large Language Models (LLM). Yes, there are multiple LLMs created by companies like Microsoft, Google, etc. The world will, perhaps need 2 LLMs and whichever company creates them, whether it is Microsoft or Google will become the bedrock of the new tech world, and those companies will benefit.

Unlike a real estate bubble when everybody suffers when the bubble bursts, when the AI bubble bursts, specific LLM providers will suffer, and not chips or data centres as there is a shortage of both.

So, when the AI bubble bursts, not everybody will lose.

The LLM that will become the default for the companies and individuals the world over, they will be in a very good place with very good money in the next 10 years or so.

IMAGE: Doctors protest demanding recruitment opportunities in Bhubaneswar. Photograph: ANI Photo

Everybody including the US stock market fears about an AI bubble burst like the dotcom burst....

I am not an AI expert, but AI is being used in every part of our lives now, from IPhones to the robotics used in hospitals.

So, in my opinion, much like the Internet, AI will become a part and parcel of our daily lives.

Therefore, I don't see the so-called AI bubble in the same way as some of the commentators.

Even when the dotcom burst happened, the Internet became a daily part of our lives. I see a similar AI situation.

In fact, I feel more money needs to be spent to ramp up chips production and more money needs to be spent on data centres to increase their capacity.

IMAGE: Saurabh Mukherjea IMAGE: Saurabh Mukherjea

When white collar workers are going to lose their jobs, when these people do not have the money to spend, who is going to consume what the companies are going to produce using AI? Job losses means loss of consumers, right?

Whether it is electricity in the 1890s or AI today, every technology has two layers to it.

The first layer is the substitution effect, and the second layer is the complementarity effect.

The substitution effect kicks in first.

When Thomas Edison discovered electricity, it was clear that candlemakers would lose their jobs. Likewise, when AI comes in, coders in Bangalore or Hyderabad will lose their jobs. And that is the substitution effect.

But the more exciting effect of technology is the complementarity effect. Like Hollywood was born years later on the back of electricity.

Similarly, I feel AI will create new opportunities and new jobs in 3-4 years' time.

Today you can see the substitution effect with job losses in Bangalore or Hyderabad.

But the complementarity effect will be AI creating more jobs for India in a few years' time than it taking the jobs away.

But the job losses will come first, and the job creation will come only later.

Part 2 of the Interview: 'A Big Chunk Of India's Office Workers Will End Up Becoming Part Of The Gig Economy'

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff
Sri Lanka on Friday grappled with one of its worst disasters as cyclonic storm Ditwah wreaked havoc, causing floods and landslides that left more than 80 dead, amid a trail of destruction and damage to infrastructure.

IMAGE: People and vehicles wade through a waterlogged street following heavy rainfall in Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, November 28, 2025. Photograph: Reuters/ANI Photo

India launched 'Operation Sagar Bandhu' to assist Sri Lanka in its hour of crisis, and the first tranche of relief materials was handed over after the consignments were transported by the Indian Navy's aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and frontline ship INS Udaigiri to the island nation.

The relief came as Sri Lankan authorities warned of an unprecedented disaster situation in the Western Province from Friday night due to rising water levels in the Kelani and Attanagalu rivers.

Both Colombo and the next most populous district of Gampaha are under severe threat, prompting officials to urge residents in vulnerable areas to evacuate, they said.

Late on Friday, the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) confirmed more than 80 people have died, while 34 remain missing in the past three days, as rescue operations intensify, according to news portal NewsFirst.lk.

The DMC said as many as 1,48,603 individuals from 44,192 families were suffering due to widespread flooding, while 5,024 families (approximately 14,000 people) had taken shelter in 195 emergency centres.

Scores of houses were destroyed completely or partially, leaving thousands homeless as Cyclone Ditwah unleashed torrential rainfall, triggering extensive flooding, landslides in central hill regions and major disruptions in other parts that have left several areas inaccessible.

It is unlikely this situation will change. We expect the Kelani River's water levels to exceed those recorded during the 2016 floods, director general Ajith Gunasekara told reporters.

He urged residents in vulnerable locations to secure essential items, including educational certificates, vehicle documents and valuables, before relocating to safer ground.

The central Matale district recorded the highest rainfall in the 24 hours ending 6 am Thursday, receiving 540 mm, authorities said.

Three major bridges -- Moragahakanda Main Bridge, Elahera Bridge, and Kumara Ella Bridge -- were washed away, cutting off vital transport routes and isolating communities in Matale, Polonnaruwa, Kurunegala, and Uva provinces, all routes crucial for trade, agriculture, and relief convoys.

The disaster management officials said that the severity of the weather has significantly hindered the ability of officials to reach affected sites or carry out on-ground assessments and rescue efforts.

The Irrigation Department issued a further warning that the Kelani river is approaching historically high flood levels, posing a severe risk to Colombo and surrounding areas for the next two days, the news portal said.

Severe weather has also caused widespread power outages, affecting 25 to 30 percent of the region.

Two major hydropower plants, Kotmale and Rantambe, were shut down after a power cable failure, said Shirley Kumara, general manager of the Ceylon Electricity Board.

As of 5:30 pm Friday, the cyclonic storm Ditwah lay centred about 40 kilometres west-northwest of Trincomalee in eastern Sri Lanka, officials said, adding, it was moving north-northwest, dumping massive rainfall.

The Indian High Commission, in a statement, said New Delhi has so far provided 4.5 tonnes of dry rations and 2 tonnes of fresh rations, including staple foods, packaged and ready-to-eat items, dairy and bakery products, beverages, and other nutritional essentials.

Additional survival supplies have also been handed over, it said.

Meanwhile, the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) described the current situation as extraordinary and unprecedented and warned that landslides could occur at any moment in any mountainous region due to the prevailing severe weather conditions.

The director of the NBRO's Landslide Research Division told local media that landslides can occur when rainfall exceeds 150 mm within 24 hours.

Several mountainous areas have (already) received more than 500 mm of rainfall during the past 24 hours, he said on Friday afternoon.

The total rainfall during the past 10 days is close to 1,000 mm. This situation is unlike anything we have ever experienced, he said.

Earlier in the day, a diplomatic briefing was held at the Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya's office, and attended by the minister of foreign affairs, foreign employment and tourism, Vijitha Herath.

The Colombo-based Heads of Mission were updated on the Sri Lankan government's ongoing emergency flood relief operations and recovery measures, and they were told that the government has designated an officer to handle inquiries regarding foreign tourists affected by the current disaster situation, according to the PM's Office.

According to local media, several important examinations were postponed due to the precarious flood situation, authorities announced.

In response to the disaster caused by Cyclone Ditwah, President Dissanayake invoked powers under the Essential Public Services Act, declaring a wide range of services as essential to the life of the community reeling under severe adverse weather conditions.

These services include electricity supply; supply or distribution of petroleum products, fuel, including gas; hospitals, water supply, and public transport.

All long-distance express, intercity, and night mail trains on every railway line were cancelled, with several train services resuming on Friday evening only within the Western Province, according to railway authorities.
United States President Donald Trump on Friday said he will permanently pause" migration from all third world countries and deport foreign nationals who are a security risk as his administration intensified crackdown on immigration in the wake of the killing of a National Guard member by an Afghan national.

IMAGE: Law enforcement members gather in a cordoned-off area after two National Guard members were shot near the White House in Washington, DC on November 26, 2025. Photograph: Nathan Howard/Reuters

The Trump administration said it will conduct a rigorous re-examination of all Green Cards issued to immigrants from every country of concern.

The new guidance came in the wake of the tragic shooting of US Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and US Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24 by Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal.

Even as we have progressed technologically, Immigration Policy has eroded those gains and living conditions for many. I will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the US system to fully recover, terminate all of the millions of Biden illegal admissions, including those signed by Sleepy Joe Biden's Autopen, and remove anyone who is not a net asset to the United States, or is incapable of loving our Country, Trump said in a post on Truth Social.

He said he would end all federal benefits and subsidies to noncitizens in the country, denaturalize migrants who undermine domestic tranquility, and deport any Foreign National who is a public charge, security risk, or non-compatible with Western Civilization.

Trump asserted that these goals will be pursued with the aim of achieving a major reduction in illegal and disruptive populations, including those admitted through an unauthorised and illegal Autopen approval process.

Only REVERSE MIGRATION can fully cure this situation. Other than that, HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL, except those that hate, steal, murder, and destroy everything that America stands for  You won't be here for long! he said.

Trump announced on Thursday during a call with service members on Thanksgiving that Beckstrom had died of her injuries. Wolfe remained in critical condition.

Lakanwal, 29, had arrived in the US through a Biden-era immigration programme called Operation Allies Welcome' for Afghan nationals fleeing their country after the August 2021 Taliban takeover.

In another post, Trump lashed out at those who he said have allowed the country to be impacted by immigration policies.

A very Happy Thanksgiving salutation to all of our Great American Citizens and Patriots who have been so nice in allowing our Country to be divided, disrupted, carved up, murdered, beaten, mugged, and laughed at, along with certain other foolish countries throughout the World, for being Politically Correct, and just plain STUPID, when it comes to Immigration.

Trump said the official United States foreign population stands at 53 million people, most of which are on welfare, from failed nations, or from prisons, mental institutions, gangs, or drug cartels.

They and their children are supported through massive payments from Patriotic American Citizens who, because of their beautiful hearts, do not want to openly complain or cause trouble in any way, shape, or form. They put up with what has happened to our Country, but it's eating them alive to do so!

He said a migrant earning USD 30,000 with a Green Card will get roughly USD 50,000 in yearly benefits for their family.

The real migrant population is much higher. This refugee burden is the leading cause of social dysfunction in America, something that did not exist after World War II (Failed schools, high crime, urban decay, overcrowded hospitals, housing shortages, and large deficits, etc.).

He also said that hundreds of thousands of refugees from Somalia are completely taking over the state of Minnesota.

Trump also slammed Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, saying she is always wrapped in her swaddling hijab, and who probably came into the USA illegally in that you are not allowed to marry your brother, does nothing but hatefully complain about our Country, its Constitution, and how 'badly' she is treated.

Trump also posted a photo of hundreds of Afghan nationals huddled in an American military plane and brought to the US under the Biden administration in the wake of Taliban takeover in 2021.

"This is part of the horrendous airlift from Afghanistan. Hundreds of thousands of people poured into our Country totally unvetted and unchecked. We will fix it, but will never forget what Crooked Joe Biden and his Thugs did to our Country!"

US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Director Joseph Edlow said that at President Trump's direction, he has "directed a full scale, rigorous re-examination of every Green Card for every alien from every country of concern.

The protection of this country and of the American people remains paramount, and the American people will not bear the cost of the prior administration's reckless resettlement policies, Edlow said in a post on X.

The policy guidance is effective immediately and applies to requests pending or filed on or after November 27, 2025.

In a statement, the USCIS said the agency has issued new guidance allowing for negative, country-specific factors to be considered when vetting aliens from 19 high-risk countries.

These countries are Afghanistan, Myanmar, Burundi, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Cuba, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Laos, Libya, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Togo, Turkmenistan, Venezuela and Yemen.

These are the same countries that were subject to a travel ban announced by Trump in a proclamation issued in June this year.

The proclamation Restricting the Entry of Foreign Nationals to Protect the United States from Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats' restricted and limited the entry of nationals of these into the US and applied to both immigrants and non-immigrants.

The USCIS said that its new guidance comes after the Trump administration halted refugee resettlement from Afghanistan and the entry of Afghan nationals in its first year of office.

My primary responsibility is to ensure that every alien is vetted and screened to the maximum degree possible, Edlow said. This includes an assessment of where they are coming from and why.

Edlow said Wednesday's horrific events make it abundantly clear the Biden administration spent the last four years dismantling basic vetting and screening standards, prioritising the rapid resettlement of aliens from high-risk countries over the safety of American citizens. The Trump administration takes the opposite approach.

He added that effective immediately, he is issuing the new policy guidance that authorises USCIS officers to consider country-specific factors as significant negative factors when reviewing immigration requests.

The updated guidance will allow USCIS officers to more meaningfully assess whether an alien is a threat to public safety and national security.

Trump has described the shooting as a terrorist attack.

To a question that Lakanwal had worked with the CIA in Afghanistan and had been vetted, Trump said the person went cuckoo. I mean, he went nuts. And that happens too often with these people.
The father of a DJ was shot dead following a dispute over interruption of music at a wedding function in Hardoi, Uttar Pradesh, police said on Friday.

Image used only for representation. Photograph: Pixabay

According to police, the incident took place late on Thursday in Shahpura village under Atrauli police station limits where Tikaram's daughter was to be married to one Vikas.

Amit, son of Puttillal, was acting as the DJ (disc jockey) for the ceremonies.

Around 12 am, Amit switched off the music. Police said the groom's brother-in-law Akash Gautam and his elder brother, Akhilesh Gautam, asked him to resume the music.

When Amit refused to operate the music system late at night, the two allegedly began arguing with him and pushed him.

Sensing an escalating, Amit called his father Puttillal and brother Ashish. When they arrived and tried to pacify the men, another round of heated arguments began, a senior police officer said.

During the altercation, Akash, 'on the instructions of his brother Akhilesh', allegedly pulled out a gun from his waist and fired at Puttillal while hurling abuses.

The bullet hit Puttillal, who collapsed on the ground, and both Akash and Akhilesh fled the scene, the officer added.

Superintendent of Police Ashok Kumar Meena said, "The severely injured Puttillal was rushed to the Community Health Centre and later referred to Lucknow, where he succumbed to his injuries."

On Amit's complaint, a case of murder has been registered against both accused and efforts are on to arrest them, he added.
In the midst of an intense power tussle with Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, his deputy D K Shivakumar on Friday said he 'does not want anything and is not in a hurry'.

IMAGE: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar. Photograph: @DKShivakumar/X

The Congress state president replied in the affirmative when asked if he would go to Delhi and meet the party high command, saying 'Delhi is our temple'.

"I don't want anything. I am not in a hurry. My party will take a decision," he told reporters on the sidelines of a function marking the golden jubilee of the Anganwadi programme, where he shared the stage with the CM.

He said he may travel to the national capital in view of the Parliament's winter session starting December 1.

Political circles are abuzz over the Congress high command summoning the CM and his deputy to resolve the leadership tussle that has gained steam in the wake of the party government completing its half way mark recently.

On his visit to the national capital, he said, "I may go to Delhi."

"I have a lot of work there. The parliament session is approaching. I have to meet all Karnataka MPs because they need to take up some of our projects," he said.

Shivakumar noted that the Supreme Court had given justice to Karnataka in the Mekedatu balancing reservoir issue, and he plans to discuss the matter with the state's MPs.

He added that he and the chief minister are convening an all-party meeting to discuss a wide range of issues, including Mekedatu and the maize price crash.

Asked whether he would meet the party high command, Shivakumar said he would.

"Delhi is our temple. All of us have to go. Without Delhi, nothing can happen. Congress is a party with a long history, and it has always guided us," he said.

He added that the Congress leadership decides party policy, and that both he and the CM (Siddaramaiah) would go to Delhi whenever called.

Addressing questions about Vokkaliga seers being upset with recent political developments, he said, "I don't want any community angle. My community is the Congress community. Of course, I may belong to one community, and they (Vokkaligas) may like me. That is different."

Shivakumar also sought to distance himself from caste politics, saying he belongs to the Congress community and has love for all communities in the state.

"My love is for all sections of society -- backward classes, scheduled castes, minorities, and everyone. Even Vokkaligas are backward class people," he added.

The comments came after the Adi Chunchanagiri Math seer Nirmalanandanatha Swamy expressed support for Shivakumar, and the Karnataka Rajya Vokkaligara Sangha warned the Congress high command that it would protest if injustice was meted out to him vis-a-vis his elevation.

While the CM and deputy CM engaged in a war of words on social media on Thursday, they were seen sharing the stage at Friday's function.

Shivakumar had insisted that 'word power is world power', prompting a witty repartee from Siddaramaiah, who said, 'a word is not power unless it betters the world for the people'.

'The mandate given by the people of Karnataka is not a moment, but a responsibility that lasts five full years,' the chief minister made it clear in a post on X.

Shivakumar on Thursday wrote, 'The biggest force in the world was to keep one's word.'

'Be a judge, president or anyone else, including myself, everyone has to walk the talk. Word power is world power,' the deputy CM added.

There was stiff competition between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar for the chief minister's post after the declaration of Assembly election results in May 2023, and the Congress had managed to convince the latter and made him the deputy CM.

There were some reports at the time that a compromise had been reached based on a 'rotational chief minister formula', according to which Shivakumar would become CM after 2.5 years, but they have not been officially confirmed by the party.
A Trinamool Congress delegation on Friday alleged before the Election Commission top brass that around 40 SIR-related deaths had occurred in West Bengal so far, a charge junked by the poll authority.

IMAGE: Police personnel at the CEO office as it is being barricaded following the protests by Booth Level Officers (BLOs) against Special Intensive Revision (SIR) and the death of a BLO, in Kolkata on Thursday. Photograph: ANI Photo

The TMC delegation, which met the EC top brass, also accused Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar of having 'blood on his hands'.

The 10-member delegation, led by TMC Rajya Sabha leader Derek O'Brien, met the EC officials amid the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal.

EC officials noted that during the meeting, the TMC leaders were told that the independence of booth-level officers should not be interfered with during the enumeration forms distribution process as part of SIR.

'EC also told the delegation of TMC not to influence or threaten the BLOs regarding dead, shifted and duplicate voters,' an official later said.

The ECI also told the All India Trinamool Congress delegation that while political rhetoric is their prerogative, they should refrain from spreading misinformation relating to election procedures.

Following their meeting, O'Brien addressed reporters, saying that the party had raised five questions, but CEC Kumar did not respond to any of them.

"We started the meeting by stating that the CEC has blood on his hands. We raised five questions. After this, Kalyan Banerjee, Mahua Moitra, and Mamata Thakur spoke and shared whatever they had to in about 40 minutes," O'Brien said.

"Then the CEC spoke uninterrupted for one hour. We were also not interrupted while we spoke, but we did not receive any answer to any of our five questions," he added.

EC officials said the poll authority gave a point-wise rebuttal to all concerns and 'baseless allegations' raised by the TMC delegation.

The commission urged them to present their claims and objections after December 9, when the draft list will be shared with them.

"Till then, they should not interfere with the independent functioning of BLOs, electoral registration officers and district election officers who are state government employees on deputation to election-related works," the official said.

Additionally, the Election Commission shot off a letter to DGP West Bengal and Kolkata Police Commissioner to ensure that the BLOs are not pressurised and threatened by political party workers.

Moitra mentioned that the delegation provided the CEC with a list of 40 people whose deaths, they alleged, were linked to the SIR exercise.

The commission, however, dismissed it as mere allegations, the Lok Sabha MP claimed.

"We began by presenting a list of individuals whose deaths we believe are linked to the SIR process... The CEC said that these are merely allegations," Moitra said.

The TMC MPs asked the poll body about the claim that the exercise would weed out non-voters, and questioned why the exercise was not being undertaken in the Northeastern states, which also face the risk of infiltration as they share borders with Bangladesh and Myanmar.

They also questioned how the electoral roll, on which the last Lok Sabha election was held, suddenly became "unreliable". The MPs raised the issues of alleged deaths linked to the SIR process, and questioned who would take responsibility for it. Additionally, they expressed worries about the neutrality and effectiveness of the SIR process and noted a recent amendment in the rules by the poll panel that allows for the appointment of external Booth Level Agents (BLAs).

The TMC further informed the CEC that BJP leaders in West Bengal are claiming that one crore voters' names will be deleted. "The ECI has taken no cognisance of these comments, nor have they negated the dear mongering by the BJP," a TMC leader said.

A party source said they have compiled a list of 60 tragedies linked to SIR - 41 common people and 19 BLOs. Of the common individuals, 35 have died, and six are receiving medical attention. Among the 19 BLOs affected, four have died, while 15 are hospitalised or receiving care.

The SIR is currently underway in 12 states and Union territories, including West Bengal.

The delegation consisted of Lok Sabha MPs Mahua Moitra, Satabdi Roy, Kalyan Banerjee, Pratima Mondal, Sajda Ahmed, and Rajya Sabha MPs Dola Sen, Mamata Thakur, Saket Gokhale, and Prakash Chik Barik.
The Delhi police arrested an alleged key conspirator in the firing incident at comedian Kapil Sharma's restaurant, Kap's Cafe, in Canada on August 7, an official said on Friday.

IMAGE: Actor-comedian Kapil Sharma. Photograph: ANI Photo

The accused, Bandhu Maan Singh Sekhon (28) -- an India and Canada-based handler for the Goldy Dhillon gang -- was apprehended from Punjab's Ludhiana during a late-night operation on November 25, the police said.

A high-end PX-3 semi-automatic pistol (made in China) and eight live cartridges were recovered from his possession, they added.

"Sekhon had been providing logistical support, weapons and strategic assistance to shooters involved in the attacks on Kap's Cafe," deputy commissioner of police (Crime Branch) Sanjeev Kumar Yadav said in a statement.

The restaurant has been targeted in three separate firing incidents since July this year -- on July 10, August 7 and October 16 -- orchestrated by foreign-based gangsters as part of an intimidation and extortion bid, the statement noted.

The DCP said Sekhon -- identified as the prime conspirator, planner and logistics facilitator in the attacks -- fled from Canada on August 23, after the Surrey Police intensified their crackdown and arrested several of his associates.

The Delhi police received inputs that Sekhon was hiding in Ludhiana, Yadav said, adding that he was also wanted in an international arms trafficking case registered at the crime branch.

"Earlier, two of his associates -- Mandeep Singh and Dalvinder Kumar -- were arrested in Delhi with eight foreign-made pistols, including PX-5.7 and PX-3 models. During interrogation, they disclosed that one weapon from the consignment had been delivered to Sekhon," the DCP said.

A team conducted covert surveillance in Ludhiana to monitor Sekhon's movements, and he was subsequently apprehended and the pistol was recovered from his car, he added.

According to the police, Sekhon moved to Canada on an employer-sponsored visa in September 2023 and had been living in Brampton. While working as a supervisory officer at a pharmaceutical company, he came into contact with Dhillon's associates, including Daljot Rehal, Seepu and Sharry.

He gradually became an active member of the gang, arranging vehicles, coordinating shooters, and helping conceal weapons after operations, the statement said.

He was also previously linked to the Harry Chatha gang, whose leader, now working with Pakistan's ISI (Inter-Services Intelligence), is accused of extortion of Indians in Canada and the US.

The police said Sekhon has been earlier booked in Canada for serious offences, including conspiracy, possession of prohibited firearms, handling weapons with altered serial numbers and possessing proceeds of crime.

Sharing details about the firing incidents at Kapil Sharma's cafe, the officer said, on July 10, shots were fired from a moving vehicle. Initially, Khalistani operative Harjit Singh Laddi claimed responsibility, citing alleged remarks made on Sharma's TV show. Later, gangster Goldy Dhillon also claimed involvement.

On August 7, multiple rounds were again fired from a vehicle. Gangsters Goldy Dhillon and Kulveer Sidhu claimed responsibility online, calling it was a "warning" and linking it to extortion demands.

On October 16, a gunman opened fire at the restaurant once more, with both Dhillon and Sidhu claiming responsibility.

"No injuries were reported in any of the attacks, but the incidents caused significant damage and raised security concerns in Canada," the DCP said.

The shooters, identified by Canadian authorities as Daljot Rehal and Gurjot, allegedly acted under the directions of Seepu, described as a key operative in the Dhillon network and wanted in several extortion and arms cases.

The police said Sekhon's links with other overseas operatives are being verified and further investigation into the matter is underway.
If it seemed as though your social media feed was filled with Spain travel photos last summer, youre not imagining it. More than 105 million international travelers visited Spain in 2024, which was up 11% compared to 2023 and shattered previous tourism records , according to the countrys tourism departments records tracking international airport arrivals.

But the increase in tourism in recent years has also been met with instances of frustration, with residents in Barcelona fighting over tourism with water guns and locals in Mallorca posting signs in English with false warnings of jellyfish.

But will there be a Spain tourist ban to curb over tourism this summer?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The country, which ranks behind France as the second most popular place in the world, according to the U.N. World Tourism Barometer, has no plans to put travel bans in place. However, in some areas, there will be more limits placed on short-term rentals.

Heres what to know about restrictions affecting tourists in Spain, plus intel from locals on how to be a better tourist in Spain and travel tips to help you plan your vacation to this European hotspot.

Are There New Tourist Restrictions in Spain?

Parts of Spain are looking to limit short-term rentals. (aprott via Getty Images)

In short, theres no Spain travel bans. However, some destinations in Spain are limiting the number of short-term rentals that can operate in response to residents complaints that the increase in digital nomads and visitors is limiting housing and driving up the cost of living.

In Malaga, a Mediterranean gem in Southern Spain set on the Costa Del Sol, the local government banned new holiday home registrations in 43 neighborhoods, according to Spanish-based news outlet The Olive Press .

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

City officials in Barcelona have indicated they wont renew short-term rentals when they are set to expire in 2028, taking 10,000 tourist apartments out of the citys inventory. Nightly tourist taxes have also increased in Barcelona, from 0.75 in 2021 to 4 ($4.15 USD) currently.

How Can You Be A Good Tourist In Spain?

Traveling to Spain? Heed these tips for a smoother trip. (Juan Maria Coy Vergara via Getty Images)

Being a good tourist in Spain starts with embracing the local rhythm and supporting small businesses, says Lauren Aloise, co-founder of Devour Tours , a food tour operator that was founded in Madrid, Spain and that offers locally-led tours around the globe.

Life here moves at its own pacemeals are later, sobremesas (lingering at the table after a meal) are cherished, and social connection is a priority, Aloise says. Instead of rushing from one attraction to the next, slow down and take it all in.

She also recommends prioritizing family-run restaurants, independent shops, and local markets over big chains.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

One of the best ways tourists can show respect is by making an effort to speak the local language, says Barcelona-based Spain travel expert Allison Sicking, founder of Splendidly Spain , a travel site dedicated to Spain travel.

But one thing many travelers dont realize is that Spain is home to several regional languages, not just Spanish, she says.In Catalonia (where Barcelona is located), Catalan is widely spoken alongside Spanish. In the Basque Country, youll hear Euskera, and in Galicia, Galician is common.

While Spanish is the national language and understood everywhere, making an effort to greet locals in their regional language, like saying Bon dia (good morning) in Catalonia, can earn you extra respect and show appreciation for local culture, she says.

Being a good tourist also means avoiding disruptive behavior, Sicking says.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dont be loud or obnoxious in public spaces, dont litter, and be mindful of local customs, she says. Spain has a relaxed, social culture, but its important to respect the people who live here year-round.

Spain Travel Planning Tips

Heres how to have a successful trip to Spain, according to experts.

Plan For Later Dinners

A common traveler mistake is not adjusting to Spains meal schedule. Dinner in Spain is much later than in many other countries, often starting around 9 or 10PM. Many restaurants wont even open for dinner before 8 p.m. which can be surprising for visitors used to earlier meal times, Sicking says.

Be Aware Of Pickpocketing

Pickpocketing is unfortunately very common in major cities like Barcelona and Madrid, so travelers should invest in inexpensive safety tools like a crossbody bag, a phone leash, or anti-theft zippers, Sicking says. The key is to always be aware of your belongings, especially on public transportation and in crowded tourist areas, she says.

Pack Layers

Packing layers is also important as Spains climate varies drastically from region to region, and even within the same day, temperatures can shift significantly when the sun goes down.

Book Tickets In Advance

Book tickets for major attractions in advance of your trip.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Many first-time visitors assume they can just show up at places like La Sagrada Familia, but these attractions often sell out weeks in advance, Sicking says. I recommend booking at least two weeks ahead to avoid disappointment.

Explore Outside Of The Main Cities

Aerial view of the Tossa de Mar town and bay. (Tom Wit / 500px via Getty Images)

Try to get outside of the main cities, even if it's just a day trip, says Spain travel expert Reesa Avelino , Goway's European product expert. For instance, two hours from Barcelona is Costa Brava, home of Salvador Dali, and a charming seaside town.

She also recommends seeing the cant-miss highlights of Spain but also mixing in some off-the-beaten-path experiences, whether its a cooking class or a bike ride around the city.

Make time to slow down, the big sights will always be there, but sitting in a beautiful plaza or local cafe without any rush is just as important, Avelino says.
Telangana's anti-narcotics wing, the EAGLE Force, on Friday said it had carried out a massive multi-state operation against a 'Nigerian drug cartel' operating across India, resulting in the arrest of more than 50 Nigerians and the seizure of narcotics worth Rs 3.5 crore.

IMAGE: Kindly note that this image has been posted for representational purposes only. Photograph: ANI Photo

The operation was conducted in coordination with the Narcotics Control Bureau, the Delhi police crime branch, and with support from the Noida police.

In coordinated raids across 20 locations in Delhi, over 50 overstaying Nigerian nationals were taken into custody, along with key cartel operatives in Noida, Gwalior and Visakhapatnam.

The operation, which involved officers from multiple agencies, led to the seizure of 5,340 ecstasy pills, 250 grams of cocaine, 109 grams of heroin and 250 grams of methamphetamine from four locations.

The total value of the narcotics was estimated at Rs 3.5 crore, the Elite Action Group for Drug Law Enforcement Force said in a release.

Investigators identified 59 mule accounts and 16 major cartel hubs in Delhi, and froze 107 bank accounts linked to the network.

The arrests included a major drug kingpin, several women allegedly involved in both drug sales and sex work, and multiple mule-account handlers. The action resulted in a significant disruption of the cartel's nationwide supply chain, officials said.

During investigations into two cases at the Cyberabad narcotics police station, the Telangana Anti-Narcotics Bureau (TGANB) found that drug orders were being placed with Nick, an alleged cartel operator based in Nigeria.

The probe revealed the cartel was supplying drugs to more than 2,000 consumers and peddlers across India, using hundreds of mule bank accounts to collect payments.

Once payments were confirmed, parcels containing drugs hidden inside shoes, garments, cosmetics, slippers and other items were shipped through various courier networks in Delhi, according to the release.

The EAGLE Force traced 11 consumers in Hyderabad who were directly sourcing drugs from the cartel. They were identified through mule-account transactions, courier company records and communication analysis.

High-level coordination meetings were held between the EAGLE Force, the Delhi police crime branch, the NCB and the Noida police to plan the joint crackdown.

A large contingent of EAGLE Force officers travelled to Delhi on November 25, and by 4.30 am on November 27, teams fanned out to 20 locations in vehicles provided by the Delhi Police Crime Branch.

Technical and surveillance units from all agencies supported the raids.

Meanwhile, intelligence inputs suggested that three key suspects had flown to Visakhapatnam. Police tracked their movements and arrested the three foreign nationals.

One of the significant arrests was that of Badruddin, an alleged kingpin of the cartel, and his associate, Sama Umar. Both were living lavishly in Greater Noida without any legitimate source of income. About Rs 15 crore had been deposited into six of Badruddin's bank accounts and withdrawn almost immediately, indicating active money laundering, officials said.

The release noted that in several locations, the suspects refused to open doors, forcing police to break them open.

In some instances, suspects had used the delay to hide or destroy drugs, it said.

Police said they preferred deporting such offenders rather than booking cases when evidence was destroyed.

The EAGLE Force alleged that cartel members were "freely travelling by air", luring Indian youth into drug addiction and involving them in "sexual activities."

It said many of them entered India on student visas but never attended college, instead leading a lavish lifestyle "funded by drug trafficking and sex trade."

The release raised concerns about the "blatant misuse" of banking channels for laundering money, the absence of regulatory checks on courier firms, and the emergence of ghettos across India as "hubs of lawlessness."

It said thousands of drug parcels had been dispatched from Delhi to students and peddlers across the country.

It also pointed out that deported offenders were often able to return to India by procuring duplicate passports from other countries and entering on student, business or medical visas.

There was "minimal verification

of whether a student was attending classes or whether a businessman was engaged in legitimate trade before visa extensions were granted, it said.

The EAGLE Force said the success of the operation was made possible with support from senior officers and personnel in Delhi, Visakhapatnam, Gwalior and Noida.
In indications of attempts at truce amid the intense power struggle in Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Friday invited his embattled deputy D K Shivakumar for a breakfast meeting on Saturday, at the behest of the Congress high command to discuss the leadership row.

IMAGE: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar pay tribute to former prime minister Indira Gandhi on her 108th birth anniversary, in Bengaluru on November 19, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo

Siddaramaiah's announcement of the crucial breakfast meeting came on a day when his cabinet colleague and party chief Mallikarjuna Kharge's son, Priyank Kharge, said the Congress had the 'sense of timing' to resolve issues.

Shivakumar, for his part, said "he was not in a hurry," even as Siddaramaiah asserted there was no change in his stand.

The opposition Bharatiya Janata Party warned of moving a no-confidence motion should the tussle continue, while also pointing out at the possibility of a 'dark horse' emerging in the midst of the tussle.

"The party high command had called me and him (D K Shivkumar) and asked us to have a meeting. Hence, I have invited him for breakfast tomorrow. We will discuss when he comes," Siddaramaiah told reporters here.

"There is no change in my stand and I have said I will listen to whatever the high command says. Both of us have said that we will obey whatever the party high command says," he added.

The chief minister also said that he will go to Delhi if the high command calls him.

Earlier in the day, Shivakumar, the Congress state president replied in the affirmative when asked if he would go to Delhi and meet the party high command, saying "Delhi is our temple."

"I don't want anything. I am not in a hurry. My party will take a decision," he told reporters on the sidelines of a function marking the golden jubilee of the Anganwadi programme, where he shared the stage with the CM.

He said he may travel to the national capital in view of the Parliament's winter session starting December 1.

On his visit to the national capital, he said, "I may go to Delhi."

"I have a lot of work there. The parliament session is approaching. I have to meet all Karnataka MPs because they need to take up some of our projects," he said.

Asked whether he would meet the party high command, Shivakumar said he would.

"Delhi is our temple. All of us have to go. Without Delhi, nothing can happen. Congress is a party with a long history, and it has always guided us," he said.

He added that the Congress leadership decides party policy, and that both he and the Siddaramaiah would go to Delhi whenever called.

Interestingly, Priyank Kharge earlier in the day said the Congress high command possesses the sense of timing to resolve the intensifying "power tussle" between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar.

"Nobody has given any official invitation or statement on the meeting in New Delhi. The CM and the Deputy CM have said that they will go to Delhi if they are invited by the Congress president or AICC general secretary and Karnataka in charge Randeep Singh Surjewala. Let the invitation come from Delhi, then only it will be decided," Kharge said.

Asked about the increasing confusion, Kharge said, "The high command has the sense of timing. It will take a call, keeping in mind the right time."

He urged people not to speculate further, and said the high command will intervene whenever necessary.

Meanwhile, Siddaramaiah's son Yathindra said the Congress high command has not given any direction on the leadership change and the confusion is media creation.

He also said no one knows whether any promise was made in 2023 about leadership change after two-and-half years and hence it was not good to speculate about it.

"There is no battle or skirmish (in ruling Congress). Since there is no confusion amongst us, I feel the media is into perception creation. The Congress high command has not given any direction for leadership change. If there is anything like that then they will call and discuss," Yathindra told reporters in Mandya.

He added that some people are saying that the deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar should be elevated but he has said that he will listen to the party high command.

The party high command has said that it will invite both and discuss the issue. Till then no confusion should prevail, he noted.

To a question on the promise to Shivakumar to make him next Chief Minister, Yathindra said, "No one knows whether any promise was made about leadership change after two and half years. High command may or may not be knowing about it. So, it is not proper to speculate about it."

On the question of MLAs being divided on the issue, he said, "Which MLA is in whose favour should not be discussed before media. It is the internal matter of the party, which should be left to us."

When asked whether the BJP would move a no-confidence motion against the state government during the Belagavi session of the legislature, party MP and former CM Basavaraj Bommai said, "There is time till December 8. If such a situation arises, the occasion to move a no-confidence motion may come.
Emphasising the importance of professional competence and operational readiness, Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan has told a gathering of IAF commanders the need for continuous adaptation, tactical innovation and strategic foresight in the evolving security environment.

IMAGE: Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan, speaks during the Western Air Command Commanders Conference 2025, in New Delhi, November 27, 2025. Photograph: @hqwaciaf X/ANI Photo

He said this in his address at the two-day Commanders' Conference of the Western Air Command (WAC) of the Indian Air Force which ended on November 28.

Highlighting mental and physical agility as key force multipliers, he also urged sustained focus on operational preparedness.

The theme of the event was 'Vikashil Saksham Bharatiya Vayu Sena', the defence ministry said in a statement.

IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal A P Singh in his address called upon all air warriors to uphold the core value of mission, integrity and excellence, as he also reaffirmed the force's commitment to national security.

Addressing the gathering of commanders, the air chief marshal highlighted the importance of investing in air warriors' training, emphasising on leadership, welfare and quality of life initiatives that enhance morale and mission effectiveness.

He also lauded the WAC's humanitarian relief efforts, which exemplify the spirit of "Har Kaam Desh Ke Naam".

"Reaffirming the IAF's commitment to national security, the chief of the air staff called upon all air warriors to uphold the core value of mission, integrity and excellence," it said.

The conference involved intense deliberations, discussions and brainstorming among all commanders of the WAC, along with senior military functionaries from department of military affairs, civil functionaries and domain experts on military matters.

Prof Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the government of India, also spoke at the Western Air Command Commanders' Conference 2025.

He emphasised that a self-reliant and technologically advanced Indian Air Force remains essential for protecting India's sovereign interests.

K Rajalakshmi Menon, director general (Aero), DRDO, gave a talk on Future Technologies in Airborne surveillance System, and underscored the rising importance of autonomous aerial systems, long endurance platforms and space-enabled ISR (intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance).

Discussions and brainstorming were also undertaken towards embracing 'Atmanirbharta' in all aspects of operational thought and furthering the nation's and the IAF's commitment towards becoming a true 'Made in India' and 'Made for India' force, the ministry said.

The WAC holds the onerous task of securing the westerns and northern airspace. Recent operations showcased the high standards of operational preparedness and professionalism that has been a "hallmark of WAC," it said.

Gen Chauhan in his address called for continuous adaptation, tactical innovation and strategic foresight in the evolving security environment.
Tensions began soon after Indian authorities proposed flying the American black-box experts to a remote military facility, even as US officials intervened, citing safety and security risks.

IMAGE: The wreckage of the crashed Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft in Ahmedabad, June 13, 2025. Photograph: Adnan Abidi/Reuters

Friction, unease and mistrust have marked the ongoing probe into the Air India Flight 171 disaster, as American and Indian officials clashed over how to handle key evidence from the country's worst aviation tragedy in years, The Wall Street Journal newspaper reported.

According to The Wall Street Journal, friction surfaced soon after US investigators arrived in India following the June 12 crash of a Boeing 787 Dreamliner that killed 260 people -- all but one, who miraculously survived, of the 242 onboard the ill-fated AI 171 and 19 who were killed when the plane crashed into a local medical hostel.

Tensions began soon after Indian authorities proposed flying the American black-box experts to a remote military facility, even as US officials intervened, citing safety and security risks.

Jennifer Homendy, chairwoman of the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), 'made a flurry of calls' to senior Trump administration officials in Washington, including Sean Duffy, the US transport secretary, and executives from Boeing and GE Aerospace, the newspaper said. She ultimately instructed her team 'not to get on' the military aircraft arranged by Indian officials.

The Wall Street Journal quoted Homendy urging Indian authorities to extract the black-box data 'at their facility in Delhi or at the NTSB's lab in Washington', adding that her 'only goal' was to help India understand what had gone wrong.

Her firm stance prompted American diplomats to intercept the NTSB team at the airport, ensuring they stayed in New Delhi rather than travelling to the remote site proposed by Indian investigators.

Indian investigators later agreed to carry out the data analysis in Delhi, using specialised US-supplied equipment.

The episode, The Wall Street Journal noted, was 'a high point of tension' in a probe already strained by 'suspicion and poor communication'.

Indian officials, led by G V G Yugandhar of the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), reportedly bristled at the perceived interference. 'We're not a Third World country,' Yugandhar told the Americans, insisting India had the same technical capability to decode the recorders, the report said.

The US team, meanwhile, grew frustrated by delays. Tension between the US' NTSB and Indian investigators at one point reached so high that Homendy even threatened to withdraw support for the probe, the report noted.

'We're champing at the bit to get the data,' one US Federal Aviation Administration official was quoted as saying. American investigators believed the information could reveal whether a technical fault or human action caused the sudden loss of engine thrust that sent the plane crashing near Ahmedabad airport.

Behind the diplomatic skirmishes, though, lay competing priorities: The Americans' focus on rapid data recovery and safety implications for the Boeing fleet, and the Indians' emphasis on maintaining control of the inquiry and protecting national aviation credibility.

With both sides guarding their turf, the quest for answers to one of India's deadliest air tragedies remains entangled in operational and procedural urgencies as much as aviation science.
Russian President Vladimir Putin will make a two-day visit to India from December 4 to hold annual summit talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi that is expected to produce a plethora of significant outcomes, including in the defence sphere, to further solidify the bilateral strategic ties.

IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi being welcomed by President Vladimir Putin at his official residence at Novo-Ogaryovo for a private engagement, Moscow, Russia, July 8, 2024. Photograph: Courtesy MEA India on X

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), announcing the visit, said on Friday that it will set the vision for strengthening the India-Russia 'Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership'.

The Kremlin said both sides are expected to adopt a joint statement and sign a 'wide range of interdepartmental and business agreements' following the talks between the leaders.

It is learnt that ways to bolster two-way trade using local currencies, taking forward bilateral energy cooperation notwithstanding Western sanctions against Russia, further enhancing defence ties and the Ukraine conflict are likely to dominate the talks.

The two sides are also likely to focus on deepening cooperation in areas of civil nuclear energy.

"At the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin will pay a State visit to India from December 4 to 5 for the 23rd India-Russia annual summit," the MEA said.

"The forthcoming State visit will provide an opportunity for the leadership of India and Russia to review progress in bilateral relations, set the vision for strengthening the 'Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership' and exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest," the MEA said in a brief statement.

President Droupadi Murmu will also receive Putin and host a banquet in his honour.

People familiar with Putin's trip to New Delhi said India is also looking at procuring additional batches of S-400 surface-to-air missile systems from Russia as the weapons proved to be very effective during the Operation Sindoor.

In October 2018, India signed a $5 billion deal with Russia to buy five units of the S-400 air defence missile systems, notwithstanding a warning by the US that going ahead with the contract may invite US sanctions under the provisions of Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA).

Three squadrons have already been delivered and the remaining two are expected to be sent by the middle of next year.

There is also a possibility that India may hold talks with the Russian side on the possibility of buying at least two squadrons of the Su-57 fighter jets though New Delhi has not made any final decision on the procurement.

In the energy sector, it is learnt that Russia has offered India additional discounts for its procurement of crude oil.

The offer came after the volume of India's purchase of Russian crude oil registered a decline in the last few weeks following the latest wave of US sanctions on two Russian oil producers.

However, the people cited above said the Modi-Putin summit will produce significant outcomes.

The Kremlin said Putin's visit to India carries 'significant importance' as it offers an opportunity to review the entire spectrum of the special and privileged strategic partnership -- from politics, trade and the economy to science, technology, and cultural and humanitarian cooperation.

'The current international and regional issues will also feature prominently in the talks with the Indian delegation led by Prime Minister Modi,' it said.

Last week, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said India and Russia are looking at firming up a number of agreements, initiatives and projects to add more substance to the ties during President Putin's visit to New Delhi.

"A number of bilateral agreements, initiatives and projects are under discussion in various fields. We look forward to their finalization in the coming days," he had said during a meeting with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov in Moscow.

"These will certainly add more substance and texture to our Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership," he said.

India and Russia have a mechanism under which India's prime minister and the Russian president hold a summit meeting annually to review the entire gamut of ties.

So far 22 annual summit meetings have taken place alternatively in India and Russia.

The Russian president had last visited New Delhi in 2021.

In July last year, PM Modi travelled to Moscow for the annual summit.

Russia has been a time-tested partner for India and the country has been a key pillar of New Delhi's foreign policy.
New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani has drawn attention after he revealed the "weirdest thing" he has noticed during his recent visit to the White House while waiting for United States President Donald Trump.

IMAGE: US President Donald Trump and New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani meet in the Oval Office at the White House, November 21, 2025. Photograph: Jonathan Ernst/Reuters

In a recent interview, Mamdani was asked to describe the "weirdest thing" he saw at the White House.

Speaking on The Adam Friedland Show, Mamdani said he spotted a "UFC" coffee-table book among Trump's reading materials and added he had "no idea" that the White House was preparing to host a mixed martial arts event on the South Lawn in June 2026.

Recalling the moments leading up to the meeting, Mamdani explained, "I sit down, waiting for the time of the meeting, and in front of me are all of these different coffee-table books." He added that "one of them is UFC at the White House. I had no idea, and I was just flipping, flipping through that."

When asked whether the book featured fighters in action, Mamdani clarified that the images were mock-ups showing how the UFC's octagon-style arena might appear on the South Lawn.

The upcoming event, which Trump had hinted at earlier this year as part of commemorations for America's 250th anniversary, is set for June 14, 2026 -- coinciding with the president's 80th birthday.

When questioned on whether he planned to attend, Mamdani simply responded, "No," accompanied by a laugh.

In a separate conversation with NBC, Mamdani stood by his earlier criticisms of Trump, reiterating that he views the president as a "fascist" and a "despot" despite their recent cordial encounter.

He told Meet the Press that "everything that I've said in the past I continue to believe... I think it is important in our politics that we don't shy away from where we have disagreements."

His remarks underscored that the political divide between the two remained intact even after their in-person meeting.

This tension contrasted sharply with the viral moment the pair shared during their appearance before the media at the White House.

When a reporter pressed Mamdani on whether he still considered Trump a fascist, the president stepped in, saying, "That's OK. You can just say it. That's easier... It's easier than explaining it. I don't mind."

The exchange, marked by unexpected ease between two ideological opponents, quickly spread online and drew widespread commentary.

The combination of Mamdani's candid recollection of the meeting, his continued criticism of Trump, and the light-hearted media moment has kept public attention focused on the unusual dynamic unfolding between the incoming New York mayor and the president.
On August 5, 1953, Jawaharlal Nehru sent a strange note to the foreign secretary. It is worth mentioning because it was symptomatic of the lack of knowledge about Western Tibet in India and in South Block in particular, notes Claude Arpi.

IMAGE: A view of Malari village.

It was recently announced that during the last three years, the state of Uttarakhand has reached 'a significant achievement'; it was visited by over 23 crore (230 million) tourists and pilgrims: 'This surge in visitor numbers has directly supported the livelihoods of numerous stakeholders, including operators of homestays, hotels, eateries (dhabas), womens' self-help groups, and transport businesses throughout the region.'

Reading this, I wondered how many among those 230 million visitors were aware of the old trade and cultural linkages between most of Uttarakhand's border villages, particularly in the districts of Uttarkashi, Chamoli and Pithoragarh and Western Tibet (also known as Ngari).

For centuries, these villages have been at the centre of extensive trade relations with Tibet.

Already not well known in the 1950s

On August 5, 1953, Jawaharlal Nehru sent a strange note to the foreign secretary. It is worth mentioning because it was symptomatic of the lack of knowledge about Western Tibet in India and in South Block in particular.

The prime minister noted: 'Do you know anything about the report mentioned in this telegram about Lakshman Singh or his so-called Indian Trade Mission? What is this 'News Weekly' and how has Lakshman Singh and party gone to Tibet? There is some reference in this telegram to Western Tibet.

'Western Tibet is normally approachable from Ladakh. It is rather odd for anyone to enter Tibet from Ladakh.'

The prime minister did not know that India had a trade mission in Ngari, with the main trade center in Gartok.

IMAGE: The gate to the first village, Mana.

Lakshman Singh Jangpangi, a native of Uttarakhand, was the Indian Trade Agent (ITA) in Gartok.

An article of B D Kashniyal published in The Tribune on September 18, 2009, talked about 'Villagers at the India-China border who could have detected enemy movement are moving out due to lack of employment'; it paid a tribute to Lakshman Singh Jangpangi 'from Johar Munsiyari who in 1952 informed the government of India about the Chinese build-up in the area.

'The Union government realised the importance of this information in 1959 when China occupied the whole of Tibet.'

On January 8, 1959, Jangpangi was awarded the Padma Shri for having informed Delhi about China's presence in the Aksai Chin region.

The Gartok Agency was a seasonal one; every year during the summer months, the Indian Trade Agent would tour the high plateau north of Uttar Pradesh (today's Uttarakhand), Himachal and east of Ladakh.

The Indian Trade Agent's role was vital to regulate the flourishing trade between India and Tibet.

Like his colleagues in Gyantse and Yatung, Jangpangi's services were attached to the ministry of external affairs and he worked directly under the Political Officer in Sikkim.

IMAGE: The way to the first village.

The border villages in Chamoli district

I recently had the opportunity to visit the villages Malari, Bampa, Niti, Gamshali and later Mana in the footsteps of the traders going to Tibet.

Niti and Mana are today known as India's First Villages, as they are the last inhabited places before the India-Tibet border located at Niti-la (pass) and Mana-la respectively.

The Niti Valley, in the northern-most region of Uttarakhand, lies at an altitude of 3,600 metres, 38 km from the pass marking the border.

The Niti Pass has been for centuries an ancient trade route between India and Tibet; unfortunately, it was closed after the 1962 War and never reopened.

Niti and the nearby villages of Malari, Bampa and Gamshali are mostly inhabited by people of the Bhotiya tribe, though they call themselves 'Rongpa' (Rong means valley, 'people of the valley').

Their language is a mix of Tibetan and Garhwali.

These villages are only inhabitable during six to eight months; in winter, the villagers migrate to lower regions.

IMAGE: Claude Arpi, left, with Bacchan Singh Negi, sitting on a chair.

I had the good luck to meet 82-year-old Bacchan Singh Negi, a retired postman living with his friendly wife in Niti village.

He had been to Tibet when he was 18 years old and still remembers clearly the pre-1962 times.

He explained that Niti and the nearby villages used to trade with Daba Dzong (district) in Tibet and were in contact with the Tholing monastery (he called it 'math').

It was a fascinating journey for all able men of these villages to trek to and trade their goods in Tibetan marts on the freezing and windy high plateau.

Negi even remembered that his family would get ghur (jaggery) from Calcutta to resell it Tibet.

Salt (a crucial valuable commodity), wool, including fine pashmina for shawls, yak tails, borax and different handicrafts were also bartered.

IMAGE: Claude Arpi with residents of Gamshali village.

During an interaction in a public school in Gamshali with a group of villagers of Malari and villages on the way to Niti village, I heard fascinating information on the villagers' ancient way of subsistence, which no longer exists.

When asked what they aspire for, most of the villagers immediately said they want better communication, improved health care and education for their children.

This is a recurring demand was for education, the children still need to go to larger towns (Joshimath or Dehradun for further study).

Though the roads have greatly improved in recent years, due to the harsh terrain (and the particularly bad monsoon this year), travelling in these areas remains a challenge, especially with the afflux of lakhs of tourists ...and the resultant traffic jams.

IMAGE: Niti Village.

Referring to the central government scheme, known as the Vibrant Village Programme, one lady pointed out that these remote villages are not yet really 'vibrant', though the civil administration and the Indian Army are trying their best to facilitate their lives: "Why can't Mr Modi reopen the passes to Tibet?" she forcefully pleaded.

Indeed, the lives of the villagers changed completely after the closure of the India-Tibet border in 1962 as nobody can visit the villages, marts or religious sites on the northern side of the international boundary.

Of course, tourism (particularly with homestays) is a new source of revenue, but people like the old postman still speak with nostalgia of the ancient times when they could spend the summer months in Tibet; there the Indian Trade Agent's presence was a real boon for their survival on the plateau.

The linkages with Western Tibet were so deep that some villagers in Bampa had properties in Tibet.

I was given the name of a person who still had land pattas for his properties near Gartok. Though I was unable to meet this person, such important documents would prove the close ties between the Indian Himalaya and Ngari.

It could be displayed if one day the government decides to build a museum for India-Tibet border trade in Niti or Mana.

IMAGE: Mana village bustling with activity.

Mana Village

Mana village, also located in Chamoli district, is perched at an altitude of 3,200 metres.

Mana is the last Indian inhabited place before Mana-la (pass) some 50 kilometres away on the India-Tibet border.

The village lies at a distance of 5 km from Badrinath which is visited by millions of pilgrims and yatris every year.

As per Census 2011, the village has a population of about 1214 souls, belonging to the Marchha and Jad clans.

Like in Niti area, the entire population migrates to lower designated villages in winter.

In Mana village, Pitamber Singh, a former Pradhan who spoke good English, knows very well the history of the area.

His father used to go every year to Tibet; Mana village was trading directly with Gartok, not Daba like the Niti area villagers.

IMAGE: Lower villages where the inhabitants relocate during harsh winter.

Like in Bamba, some villagers had properties in Tibet, some even built houses in Gartok, the main center of Western Tibet.

The wood for the Indian Trade Agency (which was to be built in the mid-1950s in Gartok by the Indian government), was to come from Mana.

Unfortunately, due to the constant Chinese obstructions it was never built. But this incident shows the extent of trade taking place over the pass.

Pitamber knew well Lakshman Singh Jangpandi, the Indian Trade Agent in Gartok for several years and he is still in contact with his son who lives in Almora.

The Uttarakhandi traders were indeed like one family, though each village was assigned a separate trade mart in the Ngari region of Tibet.

IMAGE: Collection of old utensils for a future museum.

A Museum of Indo-Tibet Trade

It would be important to have a modern, well-designed museum in Mana in view of the thousands of pilgrims who visit Badrinath, located a few kilometres away.

It would showcase India-Tibet relations pre-1962 -- the border trade, the cultural exchanges or the life in the border villages.

It has been done successfully in Munsyari in Pithoragarh district by the late Dr Pangtey (also in places like Tawang, the beautiful Major Bob Khathing Museum).

Old dresses, utensils, saddles, photos, documents, paintings, books and films could be displayed/shown.

For the general public (tourists and yatris), it would greatly enhance their pre-1962 knowledge of India-Tibet relations in this area.

It is important that this relationship should not forgotten in the dark wells of history.

Before the day the border is fully reopened, one or several Kailash 'corridors' (on the lines of Kartarpur in Punjab) should be envisaged between India and Tibet.

Tibetans could be allowed to visit Mana or Niti or other places of interest and Indians could enjoy the Tholing Gompa and other sites in Western Tibet (including Kailash and Manasarovar).

Furthermore, India could offer some expertise to the gompas of Tholing. Tsaparang or Piyang to reconstitute the old frescos often destroyed during the Cultural Revolution.

This would be an excellent confidence building measure between India and China to start with.

Claude Arpi is Distinguished Fellow, Centre of Excellence for Himalayan Studies, Shiv Nadar Institution of Eminence, Delhi.

Mr Arpi is a long-time contributor to Rediff and you can read his earlier columns here.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff
Brattleboro, VT (05301)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun. A few flurries or snow showers possible. High 28F. Winds W at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Some clouds. A few flurries or snow showers possible. Low around 15F. Winds W at 10 to 20 mph.
RFE/RL's Belarus Service spoke to women who had been imprisoned at the country's notorious Homel penal colony on politically motivated charges. Now free and living in exile, the former prisoners shared stories of enduring slave labor, rotten food, and psychological pressure. Rights groups estimate that more than 1,100 political prisoners remain behind bars in the country.
Long considered one of Europes most repressive states, conditions in Belarus have become even harsher since a brutal security crackdown that followed a disputed presidential election in 2020.

At least 1,100 people are still behind bars in the country on politically motivated charges, according to rights groups, including over 150 women.

Many of these female prisoners have been incarcerated at a notorious penal colony in the southeastern city of Homel.

Speaking to RFE/RLs Belarus Service, former inmates described the harsh conditions they had to endure in this detention facility.

Now free and living in exile, they shared stories of freezing cells, rotten food, slave labor sewing uniforms, and a ban on even the smallest acts of solidarity.

Its like a nightmare, says Halina Dzerbysh of the prison where she was sent after falling foul of strongman Aleksandr Lukashenkos authoritarian regime and being sentenced to 20 years on widely criticized terrorism charges.

I was hungry all the time there, adds the 64-year-old retired accountant and independent election observer who was freed in a US-brokered deal that secured the release of dozens of political prisoners in September.

In the morning, we had porridge and white bread with tea. Then everything depended on your luck. You might get potato stew, which you could only eat if you didnt look at it. There were worms instead of meat.

Palina Sharenda-Panasyuk, a 50-year-old civic activist and member of the European Belarus movement who spent more than five years in detention, likened the Homel facility to the gulag, saying extreme cold was a major issue.

Prisoners would wrap their heads with a tiny hand towel just to warm themselves with their own breath. It was a classic trick, she says.

The guards would bang on the door day and night with batons, yelling: Take off the towel! If you wrapped yourself in toilet paper, it wasnt as noticeable. That was how we kept warm.

Natallya Dulina, a 60-year-old former associate professor at the Minsk State Linguistic University who was imprisoned on "extremism" charges after taking part in anti-government protests, says the psychological strain was overwhelming.

Sometimes it felt like a madhouse, a psychiatric ward, she recalls.

That mental pressure was intentional, according to 30-year-old blogger and feminist activist Darya Afanasyeva, who spent more than two years in custody after being arrested in connection with the 2020 protests.

Human feelings like care, support, and friendship are banned at the prison, she says. So are sisterhood, happiness, and love.

According to Afanasyeva, even the smallest act of solidarity -- like boiling water together -- could result in punishment.

From early in the morning, you dont know how to cope with your despair, she says.

Prison work was also another tool of control, according to Volha Takarchuk, a 40-year-old blogger sentenced in 2021 to 18 months in prison for online posts deemed insulting to officials.

Its unpaid slave labor. You work for the government, she says.

Describing the policy as a smart move by Lukashenko, Takarchuk said inmates ended up producing uniforms for the very security forces who helped imprison them.

Nonetheless, she says the harsh regime did little to dampen defiance among inmates of the prison in Homel.

You could feel the disgust and hatred that the uniforms were made with. Prisoners would spit on them and trample them, she says.

I would go to the toilet, where there are pools of urine on the floor, and then I'd step on a uniform and think: Thats the uniform you deserve.
The United States said it is halting all immigration requests relating to Afghanistan after an Afghan national shot two members of the National Guard, one of whom died a day after the shooting near the White House.

President Donald Trump said on November 27 that Sarah Beckstrom, 20, died of her wounds after being shot a day earlier by a suspect identified by the Department of Homeland Security as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed Beckstrom's death in a social media post.

A second National Guard member, 24-year-old Andrew Wolfe, was "fighting for his life," Trump said.

Lakanwal was wounded and is said to be in critical condition after an exchange of gunfire before he was arrested by other National Guard members on November 26.

Trump, who was at his resort in Florida to celebrate Thanksgiving at the time of the attack, has called the shooting "an act of evil, an act of hatred and an act of terror."

Trump said Lakanwal arrived in the United States in September 2021 on one of "those infamous flights" -- a referral to the evacuation of Afghans after the Taliban regained control following the US withdrawal.

He added that his administration would "reexamine" all Afghans who came to the United States during Joe Biden's presidency.

The US Citizenship and Immigration Services agency confirmed on X that "effective immediately, processing of all immigration requests relating to Afghan nationals is stopped indefinitely pending further review of security and vetting protocols.

"The protection and safety of our homeland and of the American people remains our singular focus and mission."

Meanwhile, UN agencies have appealed to Washington to continue granting asylum seekers access to the United States and to ensure they receive full due process, following Trump's announcement that he would "permanently pause" migration from "Third World" countries after an attack near the White House.

"We expect all countries, including the United States, to honor their commitments under the 1953 Refugee Convention," Farhan Haq, the deputy spokesperson for the UN secretary-general, told Reuters.

Responding to Trump's remarks, UN Human Rights spokesperson Jeremy Laurence told reporters in Geneva: "They are entitled to protection under international law, and that should be given due process."

Eujin Byun, a spokesperson from the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) has offered similar comments.

"When people who need protection arrive in their territory, they have to have a due process of asylum. And then they have to have access to territory," she said, noting that the vast majority of refugees are law-abiding members of their host communities.

"We therefore appeal to all states that host refugees and asylum seekers to uphold these obligations," she added.

Lakanwal served in the Afghan Army for a decade, supporting US special forces in the war-torn country during that time.

CIA Director John Ratcliffe confirmed in a statement that Lakanwal had also worked for the CIA and the US military while in Afghanistan.

Fear of Reprisals

Afghans in the US said they feared the shooting would increase pressure on them, and possibly make them targets for retaliatory attacks.

"I've been in the US for a year as a refugee case and have not yet received a green card, and now I have became very worried," one Afghan who currently lives in California told RFE/RL's Radio Azadi.

"Not only me, but all Afghans here are worried. We are worried that we will be deported or face other problems, because we came here from Afghanistan with great difficulty. There is a lot of danger for us in Afghanistan," the refugee, who asked not to be named, added.

Another refugee who fled to neighboring Pakistan, said the shockwaves from the shooting have reverberated halfway around the world.

"I sold everything I had in Afghanistan and came to Pakistan with my family hoping that our future would change and we would move to America," he said of moving to Islamabad after working with US forces for close to two decades as international forces backed a democratically elected government.

"We did everything we could, but we have been waiting here in a hopeless situation. They should punish one person, not all Afghan refugees for his [the shooter's] actions."

Afghan refugees were already under pressure in the United States after their designation under Temporary Protected Status (TPS) expired on July 14. The change affects an estimated 9,000 to 12,000 Afghans living and working legally in the United States under this program.

The Department of Homeland Security said in a statement that the termination of TPS was based on its assessment that conditions in Afghanistan have "improved sufficiently" and no longer meet the statutory requirements for TPS.

National Guard Deployment

The November 26 attack, which took place close to a metro station a few blocks away from the White House, is also expected to put renewed focus on Trump's controversial move to station national guards in several major US cities in a stated attempt to bring down crime rates around the country.

In a response to the shooting, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said another 500 National Guard members would be added to the 2,000 already stationed in the US capital.

Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser, who has openly clashed with the presidential administration over the deployment of the National Guard in the capital, described the attack as "horrific and unconscionable" and added that the "suspect is in custody for this targeted shooting and will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law."

With reporting from RFE/RL's Radio Azadi and Reuters
Andriy Yermak, the influential chief of staff of Ukraine's President, has resigned hours after the country's National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) conducted searches in his office.

The resignation was confirmed by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in his regular video address to the Ukrainian people on November 28.

Zelenskyy said that he was "grateful" to Yermak, who had been leading the Ukrainian delegation for talks with the United States in Geneva last week about a potential settlement of the war in Ukraine.

"The Ukrainian position in the negotiation track has always been presented as it should be," Zelenskyy said. "It has always been a patriotic position. But I want there to be no rumors and speculation."

He added that he would hold consultations on November 29 with the chief of the General Staff, the secretary of the National Security and Defense Council and other officials on finding a replacement for Yermak.

"One hundred percent of our strength will be focused on the defense of Ukraine," Zelenskyy said. "Everyone must now act exactly like this, in the interests of our state, and defend our state. This is an unchanging principle. Meetings with the American side will take place in the near future."

Earlier in the day NABU said in a statement that it was searching the Yermak's office and added that the "investigative actions are authorized and are being carried out as part of the investigation. Details to follow."

A correspondent for Ukrainian media outlet Ukrayinska Pravda reporting from the scene shared images of anti-corruption agency employees entering the government district in Kyiv, but did not provide further details.

Shortly afterward, Yermak's office confirmed that they were fully cooperating with the investigators.

"Today, NABU and SAPO are indeed conducting procedural actions at my home. The investigators are not encountering any obstacles. They have been given full access to the apartment, and my lawyers are on site, interacting with law enforcement officials. For my part, I am providing full cooperation," Yermak wrote on Telegram.

Yermak is considered to be one of the most powerful officials in Ukraine, but his position had become the subject of much speculation after Ukraine was rocked by a corruption scandal in recent weeks when it was revealed that funds meant for the country's vulnerable energy infrastructure have been siphoned off.

Several influential individuals with links to Zelenskyy have been implicated in the scheme. Ever since the corruption scandal broke, several Ukrainian lawmakers, including from Zelenskyy's own "Servant of the People" political faction had called for Yermak to step down.

Speaking ahead of the resignation, Volodymyr Fesenko, head of the Penta Center for Political Studies in Kyiv, told RFE/RL that Zelenskyy faces "a difficult choice. Especially since Yermak is also the head of the delegation in negotiations with the United States regarding ending the war,".

"In my view, temporary removal would be the most balanced compromise option -- at least for the duration of the investigation," Fesenko concluded.

Answering a question from RFE/RL on the issue, European Commission spokesperson Guillaume Mercier said "any investigations show that the anti-corruption bodies are in place and are allowed to function in Ukraine. The fight against corruption has been a central element of our enlargement package, which provides our general position on the matter. Let me stress that the fight against corruption is key for a country to join the European Union."

Ukraine applied to join the EU shortly after Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022 and is an official candidate country but is yet to start formal accession negotiations.

Meanwhile, in a recent interview with The Atlantic, Yermak, said that ceding sovereign territory is off the table in Ukraine peace talks.

In the interview published on November 27, he stated that as long as Zelenskyy remains president, no one should expect Ukraine to give up any territory.

"Not a single sane person today would agree to a document that involves giving up territory," Yermak said, according to The Atlantic.
Ukraine's deep-strike drone campaign targeting Russia's oil and gas production facilities has already cost its enemy 10 percent of its refining capacity, according to industry experts -- and Kyiv is committed to stepping things up.

"Ten percent, it's not an astonishing number," says Tatiana Mitrova of Columbia University's Center on Global Energy Policy. "But it is still something that starts to be felt with the Russian domestic fuel crisis, with reduced oil refined products exports, and general tension inside the Russian oil sector."

Ukraine has invested heavily in new long-distance drone technology, putting out weapons such as the Lyutiy drone, which is capable of delivering explosives up to 2,000 kilometers from its secret launch site.

But Ukrainian drone units have also gained expertise at swarming targets with dozens of cheaper first-person-view (FPV) drones.

The technology advances are currently allowing Kyiv to hit key Russian oil and gas resources on an almost daily basis.

It has also committed to hitting the same refineries repeatedly, an essential strategy, says Mitrova, as Russia scrambles to rebuild and repair damage.

Kyiv has also struck at least half of Russia's 38 major production complexes and has forced Russia to reduce oil processing from 5.4 million barrels per day in July to just 5 million two months later.

Still, Mitrova points out, Russia operates the world's third-largest refining system and has substantial built in surplus capacity.

"It might take years before the result becomes really visible," she says, "so we are not talking about Russian refining collapsing anytime soon -- but exhausting its potential, it really started already."

Russian consumers have felt the pain of gasoline shortages and rationing, while gasoline exports have been banned. In addition, says Mitrova, Russia is now exporting more crude oil and less refined product, which substantially lessens its export revenues.

The importance of fossil fuels to Russia's economy can hardly be overstated, bringing in $100 billion annually. However, that number is roughly 20 percent lower than it was a year ago, say industry analysts at organizations such as the Center for Research on Energy and Clean Air.

The nearly four-year full-scale invasion of Ukraine is funded heavily by Russian gas and oil sales abroad, which have made this sector the subject of growing waves of US and EU sanctions.

But it would be naive to assume that targeting Russian oil and gas, both economically and militarily, is likely to cause noticeable battlefield effects, says Mitrova, who points out the Russian Army is generally first in line when resources are limited.

Nevertheless, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said he's a firm believer that hits on Russia's refineries are "the most effective sanctions -- the ones that work the fastest."
Ottoline Spearman

Gardai seized 622,000 in cash and arrested three men in Dublin on Friday.

The Garda National Drugs & Organised Crime Bureau conducted searches at two separate business premises in Dublin city centre and North Dublin as part of ongoing investigations targeting organised crime activity under Operation Tara.

During the course of this operation 622,000 in cash was recovered along with a number of digital devices of evidential value.

Gardai also arrested three males - one in his 30s, two in their 40s - who are currently detained under Section 50 of Criminal Justice Act 2007 at Garda Stations in Dublin.

Following the operation, Assistant Commissioner Angela Willis who is in charge of Organised & Serious Crime said: "This significant seizure of cash is further evidence of our ongoing collaboration with international partners and targeting of the facilitators and enablers who launder the vast sums of cash generated from casual drug use.

"The Drugs & Organised Crime Bureau alone has seized in excess of 3 million in cash during 2025, and continues to disrupt and dismantle identified national priority high-risk criminal networks, in our efforts to make our communities safer.
BEIJING, Nov. 26 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday extended condolences over a deadly residential building fire in Hong Kong, which killed at least 13 people.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, expressed sympathy to the families of the victims and those affected by the disaster. He urged all-out efforts to extinguish the fire and minimize casualties and losses.

In the wake of the fire, Xi attached great importance to the accident and immediately sought updates on the rescue efforts and casualties.

Xi instructed the director of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) to convey his condolences and sympathies to HKSAR Chief Executive John Lee.

He required the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the CPC Central Committee and the liaison office to support the HKSAR government in making all-out efforts to put out the fire, do everything possible in search and rescue, treat the injured, and comfort the victims' families.

Editor: Xiong Jian
The strike highlights a larger truth: when public transport fails, it is not just convenience that suffers; the livelihoods, education access, medical visits, and daily routines all have to suffer. File Photo.

According to commuters, public service is meant to be reliable, affordable and state-run.

No Buses, No Alternatives: Punjab RoadwaysPRTC Strike Cripples Daily Commute Across the State

Contractual employees of Punjab Roadways and PRTC went on a state-wide strike. It led to frustration and uncertainty, as it has caused inconvenience to innumerable commuters. For many residents, like daily wage earners, students, and women dependent on subsidised or free travel, this strike meant more than just waiting at empty bus stands. Some had to spend extra on private transport by paying higher fares or even had to cancel travel plans. One commuter in Ludhiana recalled paying nearly INR 100 for a single days round trip. It is a burden many cannot bear on a regular basis.

Advertisement

Contractual employees have been demanding for a long time. The demand is for regularisation of jobs, equal pay, and a stop on outsourcing and private-bus contracts under the controversial kilometre scheme. Under this scheme, private operators run buses on government routes on a per kilometre basis, while contractual drivers and conductors face uncertainty over job security. The union says this will lead to backdoor privatisation.

Union leaders argue that instead of expanding the public fleet of government-owned buses, the authorities are heavily dependent on kilometre-scheme vehicles, which is a threat to the livelihoods of long-time staff. Their demand is immediate regularisation of workers, a pay hike (including a 5% annual increment), and an end to outsourcing practices that keep them perpetually contract-bound.

The disruption has sparked wide criticism. According to commuters, public service is meant to be reliable, affordable and state-run. It is being undermined, especially at a time when many cannot opt for alternatives. The strike highlights a larger truth: when public transport fails, it is not just convenience that suffers; the livelihoods, education access, medical visits, and daily routines all have to suffer.

Advertisement

This strike raises pressing questions: Should public transport be treated like a business? Or should it remain a social service backed by the government? And above all, what happens to the workers who keep the buses running?

Source: The Tribune
Another key feature of this new system is that citizens can now draft their sale deeds online or via Sewa Kendras by paying a nominal fee of INR 500. File Photo.

Officials highlighted this move towards giving flexibility and saving them travel time and inconvenience.

Punjab Unveils Easy Registry System: Property Registration Now Faster, Simpler and Corruption-Free

The Punjab government has launched a landmark initiative, the Easy Registry System, to simplify the property registration process across the state. It aims to bring ease, simplicity, speed, and transparency. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann made this announcement. It is a major attempt to eliminate the systems long-standing issues of delays, red tape and corruption.

Advertisement

Under the new scheme, property owners dont have to visit the sub-registrar office associated with the property's location. Now, they can choose any sub-registrar office within the same district. Officials highlighted this move towards giving flexibility and saving them travel time and inconvenience.

Another key feature of this new system is that citizens can now draft their sale deeds online or via Sewa Kendras by paying a nominal fee of INR 500. After submission, the processing time of the paperwork is 48 hours. Officials dont have the power to raise arbitrary objections. If there is any legitimate objection, it must be raised within that 48-hour window, and it will be reviewed by the concerned Deputy Commissioner.

The system provides real-time WhatsApp updates at every stage from submission to final confirmation. It is to keep the applicants informed. Citizens will receive a message upon completion of registration, and documents can be collected in a single visit. To strengthen accountability, there is a facility to report the incident through WhatsApp in case anyone faces demands for bribes.

Advertisement

According to the officials, with this step Punjab has become the first state in India to roll out an integrated, district-wide registry system, setting a benchmark for other states.

Under the Sarkar Tuhade Dwaar scheme, selected sub-registrar offices (for example, Mohali) have already been upgraded, with help desks and improved waiting areas, and the digital and online infrastructure is being improved across the state.

For citizens  buyers, sellers, investors or NRIs with property in Punjab  this could be a landmark moment. No more excuses for undue delays or scrambling across offices, fewer middlemen, and a registration process that promises simplicity, speed and fairness. If it is implemented properly, Easy Registry could greatly improve trust in the system and make property transactions and ownership significantly more citizen-friendly.

Advertisement




Officials said that as Lieutenant Colonel and deputy commander at JED, Singh will oversee a wide portfolio of engineering missions, reinforcing the U.S.Japan alliance, and will contribute to Indo-Pacific stability. File Photo.

Singh carved a distinguished career for more than fifteen years in uniform.

From Punjab Village to Global Stage: Simmer Singh Becomes U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel

Simratpal Simmer Singhs journey from humble roots to the global stage is a story of grit, hard work and achievement. On Wednesday, November 26, 2025, according to U.S. Army officials, Singh, deputy commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers  Japan Engineer District (JED), was promoted to the rank of lieutenant colonel during a ceremony at JEDs headquarters on Camp Zama, Japan. The Army stated that this event was presided over by Commander Patrick Biggs, who administered the reaffirmation of the oath of office.

Advertisement

Singhs parents, Sukhbir Singh and Jasvir Kaur, pinned the new rank on their son in front of family, friends and colleagues. Singh addressed those gathered and said, The Army and this Nation have given this village kid from Punjab far more than he deserves, and his hope is to be able to give even a tenth of it back, as per his remarks shared by the U.S. Army. He paid homage to mentors and leaders who removed barriers and lifted him uppledging to emulate their example.

Singh carved a distinguished career for more than fifteen years in uniform. According to U.S. Army sources, he started his career as a combat engineer and platoon leader in the 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, and saw active deployment in Kandahar, Afghanistan, under Operation Enduring Freedom, leading over 180 combat patrols, clearing routes, fortifying base defences and supporting the establishment of a medical facility in Shah Wali Kot Province.

His roles broadened post-deployment, from brigade finance officer handling a multimillion-dollar training budget and supporting over 20 units to being part of the 249th Engineer Battalion at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. He contributed towards national-defence power missions and emergency responses to hurricanes, including Matthew, Harvey and Maria. Later, he also served as an instructor and assistant professor of economics and finance at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the Army confirmed.

Advertisement

Officials said that as Lieutenant Colonel and deputy commander at JED, Singh will oversee a wide portfolio of engineering missions, reinforcing the U.S.Japan alliance, and will contribute to Indo-Pacific stability.

Singhs story is an example of pride and inspiration for many readers in Punjab and across the Indian diaspora. The story has proved again that a village kid from Punjab, with perseverance, faith and dedication, can rise to a global level. Its a story of not just an individuals success, but of broader hope, rooted in humble beginnings and carried forward with honour.

Source: The Tribune
Environmental education through visual art

A unique project has taken shape in the heart of the UNESCO International Geopark Tara Hategului, at the foot of the Retezat Mountains

Foto: facebook.com/geodinohateg

Daniel Onea, 28.11.2025, 12:03

A unique project has taken shape in the heart of the UNESCO International Geopark Tara Hategului, at the foot of the Retezat Mountains. Jules Vernes work is intertwined with environmental education on a new themed trail, inaugurated in the commune of Rau de Mori, in the village of Suseni. The Story Trail at Colt Fortress offers visitors a national first: discovering natural and historical heritage through comic strips, in an effort to bring young people closer to nature and reading.

In a world where technology captures the attention of the younger generations, local authorities and environmental organizations in Hunedoara County have found a creative solution to bring the public back to nature. On November 12, 2025, in the village of Suseni, a trail was officially inaugurated that transforms classic hiking into a complete visual and educational experience. This is the first themed trail in Romania interpreted through comic strips, inspired by Jules Vernes famous novel The Castle in the Carpathians. The choice is not accidental, as the area is known to have been the source of inspiration for the French writers mysterious fortress described in the book.

The new trail is not just a simple walk through the forest, but a complex tool for environmental education. The project, funded by the Green Spaces Program  Protected Natural Areas component, places particular emphasis on raising awareness of the value of the environment. Along the one-kilometer trail, visitors encounter panels providing essential information about the biodiversity and geodiversity of the area. Dodo Nita, comic book critic and president of the Romanian Comic Book Association, was present at the inauguration and highlighted the educational value of the initiative, which goes beyond simple tourism.

I have encountered literary themed trails in France and Belgium. For example, In the footsteps of Tartarin in Tarascon, and even comic strips following in the footsteps of Tintin in Brussels and throughout Belgium. However, this is the first time in Romania. It is a significant premiere, and I am very pleased to have been able to participate. For the first time, we have such a themed trail. I really liked that, from the outset, it was designed to be not only fun, but also educational. Children come to discover the Castle in the Carpathians, but on this occasion they also learn about the flora and fauna of the region, about the castle itself, about its history. I think this is absolutely extraordinary.

The visual element that defines this route is the work of Serban Andreescu, a renowned author and illustrator. His mission was to synthesize the action of the novel and integrate it harmoniously into the natural landscape of the Rau de Mori forest. Illustrator Serban Andreescu confessed that the process was challenging, as he had to select key moments from a book dense with action.

First there was the book. And because the book existed, I was able to extract certain pages from it, the most significant ones, to make a kind of summary of the book, which would then be placed along the route. I selected some of the most significant moments from the book, limited by the number of panels. In the book, almost every page is worth reading, the novel is full of action, so it was quite difficult for me to select. But I tried, that was my version of the book summary. When I arrived at the location, I already had a vision of how it would look in the end. And to my surprise, it looked exactly as I had imagined it.

Beyond the cultural aspect, the project has an important stake in the sustainable development of the area. Flaviu Dilertea, mayor of Rau de Mori, sees this trail as a catalyst for revitalizing local tourism and protecting the historical heritage represented by Colt Fortress. He added that the initiative is just the beginning of efforts to promote the area.

We want to showcase what we have because, unfortunately, we have so many beautiful things, but we dont know how to make the most of them. Today is a first step for the Castle in the Carpathians, for the Fortress of the Corner, so that it can be included on the list of monuments that are visited, desired, and sought after.

The main beneficiaries of the educational dimension of the project are young people. The students present at the inauguration were delighted with the way the information is delivered: visually, quickly, and integrated into nature, unlike traditional teaching methods or textual information panels, which are often ignored. Gabriel Tonca, one of the students who completed the trail, noted the accessibility of the format.

The idea of comics in the forest seems very interesting to me, because you can come and see a certain story without reading so much about it and see some images that are much more captivating.

In turn, student Denisa Pata compared the trail to its previous state, highlighting the improvement in the visitor experience.

Ive been on this trail before, but there werent any signs or comics. I find it much more interesting now, and the comics are very easy to read, as are the panels.

The organizers did not limit themselves to static panels. The trail also includes an interactive digital component. At the end of the hike, tourists are invited to discover, by scanning QR codes, two local legends in audio format and an educational activity sheet. This hybrid approach transforms a simple hike into an active learning experience. Furthermore, to ensure accessibility for international visitors, a crucial aspect for a UNESCO site, most of the information on the trail is available in two languages, Romanian and English. In addition, in the gazebo at the entrance to the trail, tourists can leave feedback, thus contributing to the future development of the project.

The UNESCO International Geopark Tara Hategului, administered by the University of Bucharest, thus continues its series of initiatives that combine the protection of natural values with the promotion of local cultural identity. Through the Story Trail, Jules Vernes legend becomes a vehicle for environmental education, demonstrating that respect for nature and culture can go hand in hand on the same mountain path. (MI)
A new segment of the Moldavia Motorway, opened

Road traffic was opened on Thursday on segment 3 of the Moldavia Motorway which, when completed, will connect southern Romania to the country's northern border with Ukraine.

S-a deschis un nou tronson din Autostrada Moldovei (sursa foto:

Sorin Iordan, 28.11.2025, 13:50

Transport infrastructure is among the critical elements of European defense plans, in the current tense security context caused by the aggressive Russian Federation. The network of national roads, expressways and motorways has been, over time, a major vulnerability of Romania, which for more than three decades has been struggling to reduce the gap with central and western Europe. Although in 2023, Romania exceeded the threshold of 1,000 kilometers of motorways and expressways put into use, a year later the country was in penultimate place in the European Union in terms of motorway density, according to Eurostat. Under these circumstances, in 2016, the government in Bucharest adopted the General Transport Master Plan that establishes the main directions for the development of transport infrastructure in Romania until 2030. One of its objectives is to connect the historical provinces of Romania  Wallachia, Moldavia and Transylvania  with modern road and railway networks.

Part of this initiative is the A7 Motorway, known as the Moldavia Motorway or the Union Motorway. With a planned length of about 450 kilometers, the Moldovia Motorway will connect southern Romania to the northern border with Ukraine. On Thursday, a new section of it was put into use. This is a 13 km segment that connects the Pietroasele locality to the city of Buzau and allows travel, on the motorway, from Bucharest to Focsani, on a distance of approximately 210 kilometers.

Government representatives and parliamentarians were present at the opening of traffic on this segment. The General Director of the National Road Infrastructure Management Company, Cristian Pistol, emphasized that this is the first time that two historical regions of Romania have been successfully connected with a motorway. The former Minister of Transport, the current speaker of the Chamber of Deputies, Sorin Grindeanu, said that the construction works were completed faster than stipulated in the contract and that, with this inauguration, the city of Buzau can become an extremely important logistics hub. In his turn, the Minister of Transport, Ciprian Serban, announced that, if weather conditions allow it, an attempt will be made to open another 49 km, between Focsani and Adjud, by the end of this year. At the same time, the authorities promise that 330 kilometers of the Moldavia Motorway will be available to drivers next year.

With about 8 km of motorway per 100,000 inhabitants, Romania is slowly catching up with the gap in road infrastructure compared to Poland and the Czech Republic, which have about 15 km per hundred thousand inhabitants. In 2026, over 850 km of high-speed roads in Romania will be under construction. By the time they are completed, approximately 1,400 km of motorway and expressway will be accessible. (EE)
CSM issues negative opinion on magistrates pension reform

The Superior Council of Magistracy (CSM) has issued a negative opinion on the magistrates pension reform.

Justitie (foto Pixabay)

Stefan Stoica, 28.11.2025, 14:00

In Romania, the Superior Council of Magistracy (CSM), the institution tasked with safeguarding the independence of the judiciary, has issued a negative opinion on the draft law that changes the pension system for judges and prosecutors. The Councils opinion is consultative, but procedurally mandatory. Precisely because the previous version of the reform lacked the Councils endorsement, the coalition governments proposal, for which it had staked its political responsibility before Parliament, failed the constitutional test.

Under the new bill, magistrates pensions would amount to 55% of the calculation base, defined as the average gross allowances from the last five years, but capped at no more than 70% of the last net allowance. In addition, the transition period to the retirement age of 65 would be 15 years, starting January 1, 2026. By contrast, the earlier draft, also contested by magistrates, would have phased in retirement at 65 more quickly, over 10 years.

Talks between the Government, which has the authority to set pension levels (including for magistrates), and magistrates associations, though mediated by the countrys president, ended in failure. Magistrates demanded that their pensions be nearly equal to their last salary, while Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan insisted that pensions should not exceed 70% of the last net salary received.

CSM vice-president Claudiu Sandu on Thursday said that, if the new changes to magistrates pensions take effect, there will be three categories of retirees in the judiciary: some with pensions almost 25% higher than their salary, others with pensions equal to their salary, and finally those disadvantaged, in his view, who will work until 65 and end up with pensions at half their salary. This, he argued, would create inequities in the system.

However, the Council vice-president said nothing about the current inequities, seen by many as outrageous, between magistrates pensions, which amount to thousands of Euro and are based only marginally on contributions during their active years, and the pensions of ordinary Romanians, which are far smaller and cannot be accessed before the age of 65.

Commentators agree that responsibility for the anomalies governing magistrates special pensions lies with lawmakers, who allowed them to retire as early as age 50 and to receive pensions equal to or even greater than their last salary. On the other hand, any reasonable attempt to reform the flawed pension system for magistrates, as demanded by the European Union, has been categorically rejected by prosecutors and judges, on the grounds that it would undermine judicial independence. (VP)
John Updike

American literary giant John Updike travelled to Romania in 1964 on a state-sponsored trip as US cultural ambassador.

Voices from the Archives. Credit: RRI

Cristina Mateescu, 28.11.2025, 14:00

Already a major voice in contemporary American literature, a 32-year-old John Updike embarked in the autumn of 1964 on a journey behind the Iron Curtain that also took him to Romania, apart from the Soviet Union, Bulgaria and Czechoslovakia. Updike was serving as his countrys cultural ambassador. His state-sponsored trip was part of a cultural exchange programme between the US and the Soviet Union, which had been signed in 1958, at a time of relaxation in US-Soviet relations after Stalins death.

Updike would later write three stories drawing on his trips to Soviet Russia, Romania and Bulgaria, Rich in Russia, Bech in Rumania and The Bulgarian Poetess, in which a fictional Jewish writer called Henry Bech travels through communist Europe on a cultural mission to establish contacts with local writers and promote American values.

During his short stay in Romania, John Updike got to meet Romanian writers, attended a local theatre production and spoke to Romanian journalists, including Doina Caramzulescu from Radio Bucharest, as Radio Romania International was known at the time. Well play excerpts from that interview in todays show, in which John Updike shares his impressions about Romania and its literary scene and speaks about his own writing, as well as American literature, among others.
The Lumberjack Marching Band from Northern Arizona University performs in New York City during the 2025 Macys Thanksgiving Day Parade. Rio Rancho High School alumna Victoria Phillips, an NAU freshman, played mellophone with the group. Courtesy of Northern Arizona University

Rio Rancho High School alumna Victoria Phillips, center, in New York City following the 2025 Macys Thanksgiving Day Parade. Phillips performed with the Lumberjack Marching Band with Northern Arizona University, where she is a freshman studying music education. Courtesy of Victoria Phillips

NEW YORK  When Rio Rancho High School alumna Victoria Phillips flew on an airplane for the first time last week, she thought to herself: There is no turning back.

And for good reason.

In a few days, Phillips, 18, would perform at the 2025 Macys Thanksgiving Day Parade as a member of the Northern Arizona University Lumberjack Marching Band. It marked the first time a college or university band from the Grand Canyon State participated in the event in its 99th year, a Macys news release said.

Getting on that plane, I think it really set it into my mind that this is real and I am going to New York and in the next two days, Im going to be playing in this parade, Phillips, an NAU freshman, said.

Phillips, who plays mellophone, was surprised she and more than 200 of her bandmates were only given two 15-minute rehearsal times away from the actual parade route  and doing it all while wearing ponchos in the freezing rain.

On Thanksgiving Day, which saw clear weather, the band had to be up and in uniform by 2:30 a.m. before heading to the parade route.

(Being) sleep deprived at Macys is a whole other Wow! Phillips said. Youre eating breakfast and youre sitting there watching all the advertisements on the billboards for Macys; turkeys (are) everywhere, brown (and) white decorations.

At 5 a.m., Phillips and the band made it to the parade route, where they could not take any pictures. But, Phillips said, she will never forget seeing the infamous floats she had long seen on television.

Its so gorgeous, Phillips said. Theres so much detail that you miss on TV; theyre very shiny floats. Wed try to take pictures and (organizers) would say, No, stop! You need to keep going to the front.

The band pre-taped a segment with actress Cynthia Erivo, star of the hit movie Wicked. The segment played at the start of the program while parade participants went to their assigned spots in the procession.

Ad

Watching Erivo perform captivated Phillips, but she and her band mates still had frigid weather to contend with.

The more the sun rose, the colder it got, Phillips said. I (could) not feel any of my toes.

When the parade began at 8:30 a.m., Phillips  former president of her high school marching band  had butterflies in her stomach.

I was so nervous, Phillips said.

She remembered staring at the back of my friends head when her band director exclaimed to his students that if they looked up, they were in for quite a sight.

There are people hanging out their windows to see you, Phillips recalled her band director saying.

Phillips, who memorized her music, told herself that even though she was nervous it was OK to take this in.

What she saw was magical  thousands of people in skyscrapers recording the parade on their phones; children sitting on their parents shoulders; chants of GO, NAU!

But one sighting meant the world to Phillips  a sign that read, Blessings from New Mexico.

I said, Wow! This is so magical. It was like a different world, Phillips said.

She couldnt remember getting the feeling back into her toes, but she does remember feeling very comfortable and welcomed from the crowd.

In return, the Lumberjack Marching Band made the crowd go wild. They sang along as the band played the Ghostbusters theme and Lady Gagas Bad Romance.

When the parade was over, Phillips felt like crying  in a good way.

I was filled with so much emotion, it was hard to comprehend, she said.

Phillips, a music education major, wants to be a best-selling writer and continue to perform once she graduates from NAU.

For now, her participation in the parade makes me count my blessings.

After this experience, if I stay true to myself, success is bound to follow, Phillips said.
Several biotech and life sciences companies posted notable gains in after-hours trading on Wednesday, November 26, reflecting investor interest despite a relatively quiet news cycle.

Modular Medical, Inc. (MODD) shares surged in after-hours trading on November 26, climbing 11.51% to $0.4380. This rebound followed a modest decline of 1.80% at the close, where the stock ended at $0.3928. While no fresh news was released on Wednesday, investors may still be reacting to the company's November 17 announcement of Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval for its in-house study of the Pivot insulin delivery system. The study, designed to simulate real-world conditions, will provide critical data on device function and usability, along with valuable patient feedback.

Standard BioTools Inc. (LAB) advanced 4.90% after hours to $1.50, building on a modest 0.70% gain during the regular session. The company last made headlines on November 19, when it announced a strategic collaboration with Molecular Instruments to develop next-generation Imaging Mass Cytometry workflows. The partnership leverages HCR imaging technologies, including the HCR HiFi Encoder, to enhance protein imaging capabilities.

Werewolf Therapeutics, Inc. (HOWL) rose 4.39% in after-hours trading to $1.0199, following a strong 7.33% gain during the regular session, closing at $0.9770. No new corporate updates were issued on Wednesday, but the stock's momentum suggests continued investor optimism.

Cogent Biosciences, Inc. (COGT) climbed 6.09% to $42.85 in the after-hours session on November 26. This gain followed a 1.69% rise during the regular session, with shares closing at $40.39. Despite no news on Wednesday, the company's strong performance underscores investor confidence in its pipeline and recent progress.

Longeveron Inc. (LGVN) shares rose 4.59% after hours to $0.6772, extending gains from the regular session where the stock closed at $0.6475, up 7.02%. While no new announcements were made Wednesday, the company recently disclosed that its Alzheimer's disease study results will be presented at the upcoming Clinical Trials on Alzheimer's Disease Conference (CTAD 2025) in San Diego, highlighting its ongoing research momentum.

AbCellera Biologics Inc. (ABCL) gained 3.85% after hours, trading at $3.78, following a modest 0.55% increase during the regular session. The company did not release news on Wednesday, but the after-hours strength reflects renewed investor interest in its antibody discovery platform.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
This image shows a structural diagram of the city walls at the Shimao ruins in Yulin, northwest China's Shaanxi Province. (National Cultural Heritage Administration/Handout via Xinhua)

BEIJING, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- Scientists have harnessed ancient DNA to reconstruct the intricate social structure of one of China's earliest cities, revealing a genetically diverse society anchored in the authority of patrilineal clans.

The research published on Thursday in Nature presents the first direct genetic evidence regarding the origins of the Shimao population -- the builders of Shimao, a massive Neolithic walled settlement in northern China that thrived around 4,300 years ago and was abandoned about 500 years later.

The findings, based on genetic analysis of ancient individuals, offer a glimpse into the kinship practices, including sex-specific sacrificial rituals, of an early state-level society in East Asia.

The 4-million-square-meter Shimao city is the largest known prehistoric settlement in China. Its sophisticated fortifications, including pyramid-like platform, cyclopean stone walls, palatial complexes and stone carving, along with high-status artifacts like exquisite jades, point to a highly complex, stratified society.

Yet anthropologists have long argued over the Shimao population's genetic roots, its relationship to Yellow River farmers and northern steppe pastoralists, and the social order that raised this vast stone metropolis.

ANCESTRY

A team led by Fu Qiaomei from the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology (IVPP) under the Chinese Academy of Sciences analyzed DNA extracted from the remains of 144 individuals excavated from Shimao's core areas and its surrounding satellite settlements.

Globally, only a tiny number of prehistoric sites have produced genomic data for more than a hundred individuals. Shimao, with its immense scale and a social order built on elaborate human sacrifice, is the first such complex society to be decoded by ancient DNA.

Genetic analysis shows that the Shimao people can trace the bulk of their ancestry to local Yangshao culture farmers who tilled the Loess Plateau more than a millennium earlier, underscoring an unbroken chain of regional genetic continuity.

However, the study also uncovered interactions across vast distances. Some individuals carried genetic components linked to the populations from the northern steppes, and ancestry from southern Chinese rice-farming populations was also detected in a few individuals, suggesting broader contacts than previously recognized.

This confirms Shimao's long-term interaction with farmers and herders across China, providing pivotal proof of the early "pluralistic-yet-unified" trajectory of Chinese civilization.

STRUCTURED KINSHIP

A key breakthrough of the research was the reconstruction of extensive family pedigrees within the Shimao society, some spanning up to four generations.

The analysis of tombs from elite burial areas revealed a society organized primarily along patrilineal lines. High-status male tomb owners were central to the kinship networks, with their wives genetically traced to different, external biological families.

The study also shed light on the cruel practice of human sacrifice, a hallmark of Shimao's social hierarchy. Sacrificial victims found in ritual pits and as attendants in high-status tombs showed distinct patterns.

Victims from a skull pit were predominantly male, while those sacrificed to accompany elite individuals in tombs were almost exclusively female.

Also, the sacrificed individuals showed no close biological kinship to the tomb owners, but some sacrificed females were found to be biologically related to each other, suggesting that specific families or communities might have been selected for sacrificial rites, according to the study.

The highly structured sacrificial rituals and the lack of kinship between elites and victims highlighted a rigid social stratification.

The findings also indicate that high-status Shimao lineages appear to have deliberately shunned, or at least rarely practiced, close-kin marriage.

These results have helped uncover fine details about the regional population and social structure during the early establishment of states, said the researchers.

This undated file photo shows artifacts unearthed from a tomb at the Shimao ruins in Yulin, northwest China's Shaanxi Province. (National Cultural Heritage Administration/Handout via Xinhua)

Editor: WXY
Oil prices were little changed in lackluster trade on Friday after a major CME shutdown.

Trading in futures and options on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange was suspended for several hours after a fault at an external data center stopped activity across foreign exchange, bond, equity and commodity .

Benchmark Brent crude futures edged up by 0.2 percent to $62.99 a barrel while WTI crude futures were down 0.1 percent at $59.05.

The losses, if any, remained limited amid renewed uncertainty surrounding the peace deal between Russia and Ukraine.

As U.S. and European diplomats revise a peace plan for Ukraine, Russia maintained its hardline stance and signaled it is unhappy with the new proposal that differs from Alaska talks.

Meanwhile, Reuters reported citing sources that Saudi Arabia, the world's biggest oil exporter, is likely to lower its January crude price for Asian buyers for a second month to its lowest level for five years, mirroring a downward trend in cash Dubai's premium to swaps. That would mark a second monthly decline and the lowest since January 2021.

Traders also looked ahead to an OPEC+ meeting this weekend, where producers are expected to leave oil output levels unchanged.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Market Analysis
Slightly higher Canadian and U.S. futures point to a marginally positive start for the Canadian market on Friday. The GDP data may impact the mood.

Statistics Canada is scheduled to release the GDP data at 8:30 AM ET.

Trading in the futures segment was disrupted due to an outage on CME Group's platform. According to CME, the outage was due to a technical issue at CyrusOne data centers.

The outage reportedly began early in Asian trading and is still going on, is reportedly one of the longest in years.

The Canadian market closed higher on Thursday, extending previous session's rise, as expectations of U.S. Federal Reserve rate cut gathered more steam.

The benchmark S&P/TSX Composite Index settled at 31,196.71, up by 16.46 points or 0.05%.

Asian stocks turned in a mixed performance on Friday as China industrial profits data disappointed and China Vanke proposed to delay repayment of an onshore bond, rekindling worries about China's property market.

European stocks are somewhat subdued in lackluster trade today with investors assessing the latest batch of regional and U.S. economic data and looking ahead to fresh reports for direction.

In commodities trading, West Texas Intermediate Crude oil futures were up $0.43 or 0.73%, at $59.08 a barrel.

Gold futures moved up $19.10 or 0.45 percent to $4,221.40 an ounce, while Silver futures gained $1.043 or 1.95% at $54.650 an ounce.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com
A 2023 study suggests that as people get older, the way they speak may reveal more about cognitive decline than their ability to remember specific words.

To understand why this happens, researchers at the University of Toronto asked 125 healthy adults aged 18 to 90 to describe a scene in detail. Then, they showed them pictures of common objects while playing audio that either helped or confused them.

For example, if a picture of a broom appeared, the audio might say 'groom,' which rhymes and helps trigger the right word. But sometimes the audio said a related word like 'mop,' which could temporarily throw off the brain.

At the end of the study, researchers found that people who spoke more quickly in the first task were also faster at identifying the words in the second task. Overall, these results support the 'processing speed theory,' which says that cognitive decline is mainly caused by a slowdown in how fast the brain processes information, not just problems with memory.

Researchers also discovered that long pauses in speech, especially during tasks that test memory, may signal early cognitive decline before other symptoms are noticeable. In other words, even if someone eventually remembers something, taking longer to find the word could be an early sign of dementia.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
Crude oil edged higher on Friday as the success of a U.S. proposed peace deal to end the Russia-Ukraine war remains uncertain, with Russia adding strong preconditions.

WTI Crude Oil for January delivery was last seen trading up by $18 (or 0.31%) at $58.83 per barrel.

On the geopolitical front, U.S. President Donald Trump's administration has come up with a new 10-point plan to bring the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war to an end as soon as possible.

The tenets of the peace deal received Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's nod though he stated that there were some minor issues in the proposal that needs to be settled for which he was ready to talk to Trump.

Yesterday, Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed to go ahead with the U.S.-backed plan.

However, Putin has reiterated his demand to keep the territories that Russia has occupied in Ukraine and made it clear that Russia is also ready to fight if necessary.

This issue is seen as a major point of contention in the ceasefire plan.

Next week, U.S. envoy to Russia Steve Witkoff is landing in Russia to discuss the peace plans, while U.S. Army Secretary Dan Driscoll is scheduled to visit this week.

Russia is now facing sanctions on its oil exports, imposed by the U.S. and the West.

The U.S. has targeted major Russian oil corporations Rosneft and Lukoil, affecting Russian petrodollar revenues majorly.

The geopolitical risk premium remains elevated as investors see Russian obstinacy may pose as a roadblock to the ceasefire plan.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, for the week ending November 21, crude oil inventories in the U.S. rose by 2.77 million barrels, rebounding from a 3.426 million barrel drop in the previous week.

Last week, Baker Hughes reported that active U.S. oil rigs fell to a 4-year low, indicating lower oil production in the near term.

Traders are now eyeing the decision of the OPEC alliance on output hikes to be announced after their upcoming meeting on Sunday. The member-nations have been gradually raising their output in 2025.

At their last meeting, the cartel agreed to raise the output at 137,000 barrels per day for the month of December. Contrary to the expectations of analysts, the group agreed to pause hikes for the first quarter of 2026.

Reuters has reported that OPEC is likely to leave the output levels unchanged in their Sunday meeting.

Expectations of a U.S. Federal Reserve rate cut keep increasing after dovish comments by several Fed governors recently.

Reports in some sections of media that Kevin Hassett, director of the National Economic Council, is emerging as the leading choice of replacing current Fed Chair Jerome Powell in 2026 added weight to the expectations. Hassett has been explicitly vocal about his preference for a low-interest-rate regime, aligning with what Trump prefers.

Analysts feel that outcomes from the OPEC meeting in the beginning of December and the Fed's meeting in the second week of December could decide the course of oil prices in the near term.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Market Analysis
Russia's state communications agency, Roskomnadzor, has issued a warning that it might completely block WhatsApp if the platform doesn't meet national requirements, as reported by Russian news outlets.

This threat comes after restrictions were placed on certain WhatsApp and Telegram calls back in August, with authorities accusing foreign tech companies of not providing information needed for investigations related to fraud and terrorism.

On Friday, Roskomnadzor reiterated its accusation, stating that WhatsApp hasn't followed Russian laws designed to combat crime. According to Interfax, the agency warned that the service could be "fully blocked" if it doesn't start complying.

WhatsApp has pushed back, claiming that Moscow's moves are aimed at disconnecting millions of Russians from secure communication options.

At the same time, the government is promoting MAX, a state-supported messaging app that critics fear could facilitate surveillance. State media has dismissed these concerns.

These warnings are part of Russia's ongoing efforts to tighten internet control. In recent months, mobile internet shutdowns have affected numerous regions, with officials arguing these disruptions are necessary to thwart Ukrainian drone attacks.

However, these outages have led to significant problems, including payment system failures and parents losing the ability to monitor their diabetic children's glucose levels.

In just November, 57 regions reported daily disruptions, which the Kremlin has labeled as "essential."

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
The Chicago Mercantile Exchange got back to on Friday after a lengthy outage that disrupted trading across Asia and Europe during a short holiday week in the U.S. CME's Globex Futures & Options platform, which accounts for about 90 percent of their trading volume, opened again at 8:30 a.m. New York time.

Even then, trading was still a bit slow, and some Treasury-linked products were experiencing delays.

The downtime, which lasted around ten hours, was due to a cooling system failure at a crucial data center in Aurora, Illinois, run by CyrusOne. This facility has been central to CME's electronic trading for nearly twenty years and is crucial for high-frequency traders who set up shop nearby to get the fastest execution times.

Because of the outage, trading in S&P 500 futures and other significant contracts came to a halt, forcing some traders to pivot to cash Treasuries or look for other options as liquidity dried up.

This added some extra challenges for investors dealing with month-end rollovers amidst a thinly traded session right after Thanksgiving.

CME decided to restart operations from Aurora instead of switching to its disaster recovery site in New York, thinking that the problem would be sorted out more quickly that way.

This incident has raised fresh worries about how global futures trading is concentrated and the risks tied to having single points of failure in crucial market infrastructure.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
Hyundais product activity in India is gathering pace, and the latest development comes in the form of a freshly spotted test mule near the companys Sriperumbudur plant in Chennai. The sighting arrives as Hyundai prepares one of its most aggressive product offensives for the Indian market.

Hyundais Competitive Push Amid Sales Pressure

Once a firm No. 2 in Indias automotive hierarchy, Hyundai has recently slipped behind Tata Motors and Mahindra in monthly sales rankings. A slowdown in all-new model introductionsparticularly in the fast-growing EV and SUV segmentshas allowed rivals to capitalise. Hyundai continues to enjoy strong brand equity and profitability, yet its lineup has lacked major churn in recent months, creating vulnerabilities in the face of aggressive homegrown competitors.

In response, Hyundai has crafted a renewed, multi-layered product roadmap that refreshes nearly every segment it operates infrom hatchbacks and subcompact SUVs to larger premium SUVs, EVs and hybrids. Of the 26 planned updates and launches, at least 78 will be all-new models across both existing and new categories.

Hyundai Has a New India-Made Compact EV Coming in 2027

Adding to this roadmap is Hyundais first ground-up India-developed electric compact SUV, scheduled for launch in 2027. At Hyundais Investor Day 2025, global CEO Jose Munoz confirmed that this EV will be designed, engineered and built in India for Indian customers. Expected to be based on the Hyundai Inster EV and built on the affordable E-GMP (K) platform, the upcoming model is Hyundais direct answer to the Tata Punch EV. Two battery optionsStandard Range and Long Rangeare likely, mirroring the Inster sold overseas.

However, the recently spied prototype does not appear to be this EV. The clearest indication is the presence of a visible fuel-filler cap just above the left rear wheel. There is also a visible exhaust canister. Additionally, the Inster EV (and therefore the India-spec EV derived from it) features its charging port on the front fascia, not along the rear quarter panel. This further reinforces that the camouflaged vehicle seen near Chennai is an ICE-based modelmost likely the Exter facelift or the upcoming Bayon crossover.

Is it Exter Facelift?

First launch in 2023, Exter facelift is a strong possibility. The shape and stance of the prototype resemble that of the Exter. Hyundai will equip the facelift with a more premium interior, updated materials, and significantly upgraded tech. One major highlight is the brands next-generation AAOS-based infotainment system, making the Exter facelift the first mass-market Indian car to run Googles Android Automotive OS. The SUV will feature a new 12.9-inch touchscreen paired with a 9.9-inch digital driver display, along with OTA-compatible software. Engine options are expected to continue unchanged with the 1.2-litre petrol and factory-fitted CNG variants. Launch is expected sometime in early 2027.

Is it Hyundai Bayon to take on Fronx?

Another possibility is that this could be the India-spec Hyundai Bayon, set to debut in mid-2026. Positioned between the Exter and the Venue, the Bayon will offer Hyundai another contender in the highly competitive Rs 1012 lakh crossover space currently led by Maruti Fronx. The India version may introduce Hyundais all-new 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engineengineered for stronger torque, hybrid readiness, and higher efficiency. Overseas, the Bayon is powered by the 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with 6MT or 7DCT gearboxes, and some of these options may also make it to the Indian market.

A Busy Product Pipeline Ahead

With new SUVs, a fresh MPV, a lifestyle off-roader, a next-gen compact EV, hybrid powertrains and the rollout of AAOS-based infotainment across models, Hyundai is preparing for its most significant lineup transformation in years. The newly spotted test mule is an early hint of the intense product rollout planned for 20262028. Whether its the Exter facelift or the new Bayon, Hyundais presence in the compact and subcompact SUV segments is set for a major revival.
An engineer observes a humanoid robot grabbing a component at a laboratory of Leju Robotics in Hefei, east China's Anhui Province, Oct. 24, 2025. In recent years, Hefei has been actively promoting the development of its intelligent robot industry. The city is now home to a full-chain industrial system for research, development and manufacturing of robotics that comprises 190 related enterprises. (Xinhua/Zhou Mu)

A staff member trains a humanoid robot to fetch objects for data collection purpose at Zerith, a robotics company, in Hefei, east China's Anhui Province, Nov. 25, 2025. In recent years, Hefei has been actively promoting the development of its intelligent robot industry. The city is now home to a full-chain industrial system for research, development and manufacturing of robotics that comprises 190 related enterprises. (Xinhua/Zhou Mu)

An engineer runs a simulation program at Leju Robotics in Hefei, east China's Anhui Province, Oct. 24, 2025. In recent years, Hefei has been actively promoting the development of its intelligent robot industry. The city is now home to a full-chain industrial system for research, development and manufacturing of robotics that comprises 190 related enterprises. (Xinhua/Zhou Mu)

A humanoid robot, operated by a staff member for data collection purpose, fetches objects at Zerith, a robotics company, in Hefei, east China's Anhui Province, Nov. 25, 2025. In recent years, Hefei has been actively promoting the development of its intelligent robot industry. The city is now home to a full-chain industrial system for research, development and manufacturing of robotics that comprises 190 related enterprises. (Xinhua/Zhou Mu)

A staff member trains a humanoid robot to play Chinese diabolo (kongzhu) for data collection purpose at Zerith, a robotics company, in Hefei, east China's Anhui Province, Nov. 25, 2025. In recent years, Hefei has been actively promoting the development of its intelligent robot industry. The city is now home to a full-chain industrial system for research, development and manufacturing of robotics that comprises 190 related enterprises. (Xinhua/Zhou Mu)

A staff member trains a humanoid robot to fetch objects for data collection purpose at Zerith, a robotics company, in Hefei, east China's Anhui Province, Nov. 25, 2025. In recent years, Hefei has been actively promoting the development of its intelligent robot industry. The city is now home to a full-chain industrial system for research, development and manufacturing of robotics that comprises 190 related enterprises. (Xinhua/Zhou Mu)

An engineer operates a humanoid robot via VR equipment for data collection purpose at a laboratory of Leju Robotics in Hefei, east China's Anhui Province, Oct. 24, 2025. In recent years, Hefei has been actively promoting the development of its intelligent robot industry. The city is now home to a full-chain industrial system for research, development and manufacturing of robotics that comprises 190 related enterprises. (Xinhua/Zhou Mu)

An engineer adjusts a humanoid robot at a laboratory of Leju Robotics in Hefei, east China's Anhui Province, Oct. 24, 2025. In recent years, Hefei has been actively promoting the development of its intelligent robot industry. The city is now home to a full-chain industrial system for research, development and manufacturing of robotics that comprises 190 related enterprises. (Xinhua/Zhou Mu)

A staff member trains a humanoid robot to fetch objects for data collection purpose at Zerith, a robotics company, in Hefei, east China's Anhui Province, Nov. 25, 2025. In recent years, Hefei has been actively promoting the development of its intelligent robot industry. The city is now home to a full-chain industrial system for research, development and manufacturing of robotics that comprises 190 related enterprises. (Xinhua/Zhou Mu)

An engineer installs battery for a humanoid robot at Leju Robotics in Hefei, east China's Anhui Province, Oct. 24, 2025. In recent years, Hefei has been actively promoting the development of its intelligent robot industry. The city is now home to a full-chain industrial system for research, development and manufacturing of robotics that comprises 190 related enterprises. (Xinhua/Zhou Mu)

Editor: WXY
If You Go

Rio Grande Arts and Crafts Holiday Festival

When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Nov. 28-29, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 30

Where: Expo New Mexico in Albuquerque, the Lujan Exhibit Complex

Cost: General admission is $10; a three-day pass is $15. Children ages 12 and under are free.

More information: riograndefestivals.com/holiday-show.

Winter Indian Market

When: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Nov. 29 and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Nov. 30

Where: The Santa Fe Community Convention Center

Cost: $16.65 for a Saturday or Sunday pass; $26.95 for a weekend pass. SWAIA members and children age 12 and under are free. Tickets can be purchased online at swaia.org/winter-indian-market or at the door.

Los Cerrillos Holiday Market

When: 2 to 6 p.m. Dec. 29

Where: Los Cerrillos Farmers Market

Cost: Free

La Fonda on the Plazas Holiday Artist Market, plus Comedy for a Cause

When: The market is 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Dec. 5-7. Comedy for a Cause is at 7 p.m. Dec. 5; doors open at 6:30 p.m.

Where: The market is on La Fondas mezzanine level; Comedy for a Cause is in the hotels Santa Fe Room.

Cost: The market is free and open to the public. Admission to Comedy for a Cause is one new, unwrapped toy to be donated.

Winter Spanish Market

When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 6, and 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 7

Where: The Santa Fe Community Convention Center.

Cost: Free

Holiday Mercado

When: 10 a.m. go 2 p.m. Dec. 6

Where: The Fraternal Order of Police

Cost: Free

Bishops Lodges Holiday Market and farolito tree-lighting ceremony

When: 2-7 p.m. Dec. 12; the tree-lighting ceremony is at 6 p.m.

Where: Bishops Lodge, Auberge Collection

Cost: Free

String of Lights Holiday Market

When: 3-9 p.m. Dec. 12

Where: The Farmers Market Pavilion

Cost: Free

More information: highdesertmarkets.com

Institute of American Indian Arts Holiday Art Market

When: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 13

Where: The IAIA Performing Arts and Fitness Center

Cost: Free

More information: Email holidayartmarket@iaia.edu or visit iaia.edu/event/2025holidayartmarket/

Santa Fe Community College Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair

When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 13

Where: The colleges main hallway and campus center

Cost: Free

More information: Email chad.gasper@sfcc.edu

The Kitchen Table Santa Fes Winter Market

When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 13

Where: The Kitchen Table Santa Fe, 313 Camino Alire

Cost: Free and open to the public.

More information: thekitchentablesantafe.com/events
People visit the exhibition titled "For a Common Cause: From the Spanish Battlefield to China's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression" held at the Museum of the Communist Party of China (CPC) in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 14, 2025. (Xinhua/Yin Gang)

BEIJING, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- "There's a valley in Spain called Jarama. It's a place that we all know so well. It was there that we gave of our manhood, where so many of our brave comrades fell."

These plaintive strains of the folk ballad "Jarama Valley" are more than a memorial -- they are a portal to the stories of the International Brigades. This diverse group of anti-fascist fighters, drawn from across continents, now takes center stage in a touching exhibition in Beijing.

Titled "For a Common Cause: From the Spanish Battlefield to China's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression," the ongoing exhibition opened in August at the Museum of the Communist Party of China (CPC), marking the 80th anniversary of victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

Through more than 260 photographs, 150 cultural relics and historical footage, the exhibition shows how anti-fascist volunteers of the International Brigades fought bravely on both the Spanish and Chinese battlefronts -- unfolding an inspiring chapter of mutual aid in the global struggle against fascism.

"This marks the first time China has contextualized the two battlefields within a single exhibition space, underscoring the united anti-fascist spirit of people across the world," said Zhao Jiaojian, planner of the exhibition, which will run through the end of 2025.

A staff member introduces exhibits to visitors at the exhibition titled "For a Common Cause: From the Spanish Battlefield to China's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression" held at the Museum of the Communist Party of China (CPC) in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 14, 2025. (Xinhua/Yin Gang)

BATTLES IN SPAIN

Organized by the Comintern -- an international communist alliance -- the International Brigades mobilized over 40,000 volunteers from more than 50 countries to defend the Spanish Republic against forces including those sent from fascist Italy and Nazi Germany during its civil war (1936-1939). They fought in brutal battles such as the Defense of Madrid and the Battle of Jarama, where an estimated 10,000 lives were lost.

Less widely recognized is the Chinese dimension of this chapter. Among the International Brigades' volunteers were more than 100 Chinese, many of whom were CPC members.

One prominent figure was Xie Weijin, who fought under the alias Lin Jishi. A multilingual individual with military training, Xie rose to lead the Chinese volunteers and serve as the political commissar of an artillery brigade.

He fought in pivotal engagements, sustained two battle wounds, and narrowly avoided amputation. Beyond the frontline, Xie established an orphanage for war-orphaned children, which provided shelter for over 100 children by 1938.

In a speech delivered that year, Xie crystallized the shared struggle: "The Spanish and Chinese peoples are in a very tense phase of struggle... They are waging a revolutionary war for the national and social liberation of their respective countries, leading the fight against fascism..."

Their contributions were acknowledged back in China. A replica of the red banner sent by then CPC leaders to the volunteers in Spain is now displayed at the Beijing exhibition, bearing the inscription: "Unite the peoples of Spain and China! Down with the common foe of mankind -- the Fascists!"

The heroic deeds of the volunteers, exemplified by figures like Xie, demonstrated "a commitment to justice that crossed national borders, and constituted an indelible chapter in the global fight against fascism that should never be forgotten," said Jiang Ying, researcher of the Academy of Military Sciences.

A visitor views a photo of Canadian surgeon Norman Bethune at the exhibition titled "For a Common Cause: From the Spanish Battlefield to China's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression" held at the Museum of the Communist Party of China (CPC) in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 14, 2025. (Xinhua/Yin Gang)

THE EASTERN FRONT

As the Spanish Civil War drew to a close in 1938, the International Brigades were officially withdrawn. Following a period of internment in France, the Chinese volunteers returned home to join in China's nationwide resistance against Japanese aggression.

Yet the tide of internationalism did not recede -- it flowed eastward. Foreign fighters redirected their focus from Spain to China, which had become the main theater of the World Anti-Fascist War in the East.

Among these volunteers, the most renowned was Canadian surgeon Norman Bethune, a household name in China. After pioneering a mobile blood-transfusion service in Spain, he arrived in north China in 1938. There, he famously worked 40-hour shifts and championed setting up operating tables near the front lines. Alongside other international medical workers, Bethune saved countless lives and revolutionized battlefield medicine in China.

They were joined by journalists and artists who documented the Chinese people's arduous struggle for the rest of the world. Among them, Hungarian-American photographer Robert Capa captured the war's brutal reality in 1937, while Dutch filmmaker Joris Ivens arrived in 1938 to produce "The 400 Million" -- the first Western documentary to portray China's resistance in a positive light, galvanizing global support.

"In this exhibition, I can clearly see how the Chinese people assisted foreign revolutionaries and how foreign revolutionaries assisted the Chinese people," said Lin Tao, a doctoral student at Hunan Normal University, while visiting the exhibition.

This photo taken on Nov. 14, 2025 shows photographic works by Hungarian-American photographer Robert Capa displayed at the exhibition titled "For a Common Cause: From the Spanish Battlefield to China's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression" at the Museum of the Communist Party of China (CPC) in Beijing, capital of China. (Xinhua/Yin Gang)

Many young Chinese visitors like Lin have been profoundly moved by the exhibition, which also highlights the pivotal contributions of International Brigades anti-fascist fighters on the Chinese battlefield.

Decades later, China continues to honor this international solidarity. On the occasion of marking the 80th anniversary of its victory in World War II on Sept. 3 this year, the nation expressed sincere gratitude to the foreign governments and individuals who aided its people.

China was the first country to rise against fascist aggression with the longest-lasting resistance that began in 1931. The country tied down and struck over half of Japan's overseas forces, at the cost of 35 million military and civilian casualties -- accounting for approximately one-third of all WWII casualties worldwide.

"The exhibition aims to deepen the understanding that the Chinese people, at a tremendous national cost, made significant contributions to the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War," Zhao told Xinhua.

"Meanwhile, the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression received extensive support from the international community, and the Chinese people will forever cherish these contributions. China will continue to work hand in hand with the rest of the world -- and strive tirelessly to build a brighter future for humanity," Zhao added.

Editor: WXY
People attend the Chinese culture night event at the Chinese Embassy in Kuwait in Hawalli Governorate, Kuwait, Nov. 26, 2025. A Chinese culture night featuring food, music and Mandarin activities was held on Wednesday at the Chinese Embassy in Kuwait. The event brought together cultural displays, culinary stations, and language-themed performances, offering local audiences an immersive experience of both traditional and contemporary Chinese culture. (Photo by Asad/Xinhua)

KUWAIT CITY, Nov. 26 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese culture night featuring food, music and Mandarin activities was held on Wednesday at the Chinese Embassy in Kuwait.

The event brought together cultural displays, culinary stations, and language-themed performances, offering local audiences an immersive experience of both traditional and contemporary Chinese culture.

A series of stage performances formed the highlight of the evening, showcasing the accomplishments of Chinese-language learners in Kuwait. A children's choir opened the performance with Let's Paddle Together, followed by a piano rendition of The Butterfly Lovers. The students also recited classic Chinese poetry and delivered speeches on their personal experiences in China.

Additional performances included a duet of Iron, Blood and Loyal Heart, a XiangSheng (crosstalk) piece, a recital titled The Chinese Language and a Hanfu show. The program concluded with traditional instrumental works by musicians from the China Conservatory of Music.

Alongside the performances, cultural workshops allowed visitors to experience Chinese craftsmanship. Participants tried lacquer fan making, lantern crafting, Song-brocade wind chime assembly and Miao-silver ornament magnet design. A calligraphy station offered guests personalised name cards written by teachers, while a tea-art booth introduced traditional tea preparation methods.

Food also drew significant crowds, with five culinary stations presenting classic Chinese dishes and snacks to highlight the regional diversity of Chinese cuisine.

Liu Xiang, charge d'affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Kuwait, said at the event that the program aims to use food as a bridge and culture as a link to deepen mutual understanding between the peoples of the two countries.

He noted that China stands ready to work with Kuwait to strengthen exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations, carry forward traditional friendship, and contribute to building a community with a shared future for mankind.

People enjoy Chinese food during the Chinese culture night event at the Chinese Embassy in Kuwait in Hawalli Governorate, Kuwait, Nov. 26, 2025. A Chinese culture night featuring food, music and Mandarin activities was held on Wednesday at the Chinese Embassy in Kuwait.

The event brought together cultural displays, culinary stations, and language-themed performances, offering local audiences an immersive experience of both traditional and contemporary Chinese culture. (Photo by Asad/Xinhua)

People enjoy Chinese traditional instrumental works during the Chinese culture night event at the Chinese Embassy in Kuwait in Hawalli Governorate, Kuwait, Nov. 26, 2025. A Chinese culture night featuring food, music and Mandarin activities was held on Wednesday at the Chinese Embassy in Kuwait.

The event brought together cultural displays, culinary stations, and language-themed performances, offering local audiences an immersive experience of both traditional and contemporary Chinese culture. (Photo by Asad/Xinhua)

People enjoy Chinese food during the Chinese culture night event at the Chinese Embassy in Kuwait in Hawalli Governorate, Kuwait, Nov. 26, 2025. A Chinese culture night featuring food, music and Mandarin activities was held on Wednesday at the Chinese Embassy in Kuwait.

The event brought together cultural displays, culinary stations, and language-themed performances, offering local audiences an immersive experience of both traditional and contemporary Chinese culture. (Photo by Asad/Xinhua)

Editor: WXY
This year marks the 40th anniversary of China's accession to the Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage. China has made enormous efforts to protect its heritage and achieved significant progress in conservation, Irina Bokova, former UNESCO director-general, has said. #GLOBALink
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will not sign any document that would renounce Ukrainian territory while being in his office, stated Andriy Yermak, head of the Presidents Office of Ukraine.

As long as Zelensky is president, no one should count on us giving up territory. He will not sign away territory, he told me by telephone from Kyiv. The constitution prohibits this. Nobody can do that unless they want to go against the Ukrainian constitution and the Ukrainian people, Yermak said in an interview with Simon Schuster for The Atlantic.

According to him, no sane person today would sign a document renouncing the territory.

The head of the Presidents Office emphasized that in the next stage of negotiations to end the war in Ukraine, Zelenskyy intends to draw a red line on the most contentious issue: Russia's demand for sovereign Ukrainian territory.

On the question of land, Ukraine is prepared to discuss only where the line should be drawn to demarcate what the warring sides control. All we can realistically talk about right now is really to define the line of contact. And thats what we need to do, the chief of the Presidents Office summed up.
Photo: https://t.me/svyrydenkoy

The Government of Ukraine is putting up for public auction the assets of IDS Ukraine, the producer of the well-known mineral water brands Morshynska and Myrhorodska, Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko reported.

"Today at 9:30, the Asset Recovery and Management Agency began collecting tender offers. The deadline is December 12, 2025, at 18:00. The auction will take place on the ProZorro platform in December 2025. The state will transfer the corporate rights of companies that provide a full production cycle: from water extraction to distribution," Svyrydenko wrote in the Telegram channel.

Under the terms of the competition, it is noted that the profit from IDS Ukraine's activities will go to Ukraine's state budget, except for the manager's remuneration.

The Prime Minister added that the expected monthly budget revenues are at least UAH 24 million.

"The group's assets have been frozen since 2022 as they belong to Russian oligarch Fridman. He is under sanctions from the US, EU, Great Britain, and Ukraine," Svyrydenko reminded.

In the fall of 2022, ARMA received the corporate rights to the Myrhorod and Morshyn plants, as well as the industrial designs and trademarks of IDS Ukraine group enterprises, by court decision. In April 2023, Karpaty Mineral Water was chosen to manage Morshynska's assets; however, the transfer never took place. In March of this year, ARMA announced the termination of the unimplemented agreement.
Yermak says of legal proceedings being carried out at his place, his full contribution to law enforcers

Photo: https://t.me/ermaka2022

Head of the Presidents Office of Ukraine, Andriy Yermak, confirmed that the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) are conducting legal proceedings at his home and stated that he is completely cooperating with law enforcement agencies and that investigators are not facing any obstacles.

"Today, NABU and SAPO are indeed conducting legal proceedings at my home. Investigators are not encountering any obstacles. They were granted full access to the apartment, and my lawyers are on site, cooperating with law enforcement. I am providing full cooperation," Yermak wrote on Telegram on Friday.

As earlier reported, NABU and SAPO are conducting investigative actions (searches) at Andriy Yermak's home.

According to NABU's Telegram channel, the investigative actions have been authorized and are being carried out as part of the investigation.

"Details will come later," the message reads.

Ukrainian MP Yaroslav Zhelezniak wrote on Telegram: "NABU has already confirmed to journalists that the searches are part of Operation Midas (popularly known as Mindichgate). Earlier Zhelezniak reported that Yermak was mentioned under the pseudonym Ali Baba in the context of the Mindich tapes" on corruption in the energy sector.

According to the Anti-Corruption Action Center, details of the search of Yermak's home will be released "soon," while the Center noted that NABU is legally prohibited from investigating the activities of the Ukrainian president. "NABU legally has no right to investigate the president's activities. This restriction has been in place since its inception. The FBI also has no right to investigate the Ukrainian president due to diplomatic immunity. Therefore, Zelenskyy is not in any danger; the commander-in-chief can and must continue to defend Ukraine from the occupiers," the Anti-Corruption Action Center wrote on its Telegram channel.

On November 10, NABU and SAPO announced a large-scale operation to expose corruption in the energy sector, dubbed "Midas." They documented the activities of a high-level criminal organization whose members had constructed a large-scale corruption scheme to influence strategic public sector enterprises, specifically JSC NNEGC Energoatom. Energoatom confirmed that investigative actions had been conducted at the company on November 10.
The head of Britain's Office for Budget Responsibility said he would resign over an embarrassing leak of the government's Budget if he no longer commanded the support of Finance Minister Rachel Reeves.

Richard Hughes said an investigation was now underway after the unprecedented leak of the document around 40 minutes before Reeves stood up to deliver her speech in the House of Commons.:

"A link to our ... document was inadvertently made accessible to the public prior to the conclusion of the chancellors (finance minister) statement when it is usually published," he said at the Resolution Foundations post-budget event.

"It wasnt published on our website, but there was a link that somebody managed to find, and that made it accessible, and then it was then disseminated. As soon as it was discovered, we took action to take it down."

Hughes added that the investigation was already under way and would report by early next week.

"Personally, I serve day-to-day subject to the confidence of the chancellor and the Treasury committee. If they both conclude, in light of that investigation, they no longer have confidence in me then, of course, I will resign, which is what you do when youre the chair of something called the Office for Budget Responsibility."

Reeves described the leak as "deeply disappointing" and "a serious error on their part" - but her office said she still "has confidence" in Hughes. The minister herself was castigated by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons Nus Ghani for briefing several policy measures to the media days and weeks ahead of Wednesday's formal speech.

Reporting by Frank Prenesti for Sharecast.com
"I've spent a lifetime feeling drawn to gay men," Kelly Foster Lundquist writes in her riveting debut memoir, Beard. Her brother and best friend are gay; she loves musical theater and considers Judy Garland a patron saint. So it's all the more ironic that she didn't realize for years that her first husband was homosexual.

Lundquist met Devin during college, when they were counselors at a Christian summer camp in Mississippi. She knew he'd been bullied in adolescence for being effeminate but only later learned he'd been subjected to counseling that fell just short of conversion therapy. When Lundquist started a PhD, the couple relocated to Chicago--to Boystown, a historically gay neighborhood. Descriptions of food and fashion create a neat context for their early-2000s courtship and marriage. She tracks her disordered eating and Devin's growing alcohol dependency with sensitivity, and she convincingly re-creates her naive confusion over finding gay images and chat room discussions on their shared computer.

The scenes and dialogue sparkle. That's especially true of the pivotal sequence in which Lundquist dresses as Liza Minnelli for Halloween and, days afterward, the truth emerges about Devin's affairs with men. Lundquist explores the history of the "beard" stereotype common to 1950s Hollywood films and TV sitcoms. The language of deconstruction and queer literary theory, gleaned from her doctoral research, pairs with a newfound affirming theology. With that fresh perspective, Lundquist looks back--two decades on, a remarried English professor and mother--with compassion for her ex-husband as well as her younger self. --Rebecca Foster, freelance reviewer, proofreader, and blogger at Bookish Beck
In Confessions from the Group Chat, Jodi Meadows (Bye Forever, I Guess; the Lady Janies series) skillfully and authentically evokes the challenges of navigating a middle-school social life in the time of social media, when any misstep may be disastrous.

Thirteen-year-old Virginia has a prickly relationship with her three best friends. The group is at the top of the eighth-grade social ladder, but the roles within the foursome, at least on the surface, have some not-so-subtle delineations. There's the "queen bee," the "creative genius," the "mean girl with a heart of gold," and Virginia, who doesn't know where she stands (the "Cat Person"?). So, when Virginia is teased for her crush on an unpopular boy and she pushes back against the girls' bullying, it's no surprise that the fight blows up into a "toxic cloud of social disaster." Her former friends begin publicly posting screenshots of terrible things Virginia has written in their group chats about other people (leaving out their own hurtful comments), making her a middle-school pariah.

Meadows writes a protagonist who is not a straightforward victim--Virginia did contribute to the group chat, and she continues to be somewhat dishonest to protect herself and others. This choice reflects messy reality in an emotionally complicated novel that can be appreciated by middle-grade and YA readers. Fans of Shannon Hale and LeUyen Pham's Real Friends series should find Confessions refreshing and suffused with the authentic, complex flavor of early adolescence. --Emilie Coulter, freelance writer and editor
Celeste Connally's third Lady Petra Inquires mystery, Revenge, Served Royal, takes its charming protagonist and a gaggle of friends to a royal celebration that includes a patisserie contest--and soon mixes in a little murder.

Lady Petra Forsyth is pleased to be at Windsor Castle to judge Queen Charlotte's inaugural competition to determine the best baker in England. The contestants include Petra's excellent cook, Mrs. Bing. But before the contest can begin, Sir Rufus Pomeroy--longtime chef to the royals and the aristocracy, including Petra's own family--is found dead in the castle. It's clear he was murdered, and Petra must join forces with her friends and stalwart maid, Annie, to unmask the killer without upsetting the other guests.

Connally (All's Fair in Love and Treachery; Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Lord) brings back the series' engaging ensemble cast, including Petra's trio of spirited female friends; her dashing lover, Duncan; and her elegant Aunt Ophelia. Verbal jousting and culinary feats abound as Petra searches the castle for a mysterious memoir manuscript left behind by Rufus. Complicating matters is the possible involvement of the Prince Regent, as well as the explosive society secrets supposedly contained in Sir Rufus's manuscript, which may implicate Petra's beloved aunt. Connally concocts a satisfying mystery alongside the contest's progression, which includes mouthwatering descriptions of British classics like Shrewsbury cake and ambitious French bakes such as fanchonette and vol-au-vent. As she tries to balance her judging duties with her clandestine investigation, Petra must divine the killer's motive before they dish up another helping of murder. --Katie Noah Gibson, blogger at Cakes, Tea and Dreams
Carry Somers is the cofounder of Fashion Revolution, an activist organization that advocates for social and environmental responsibility in fashion. In The Nature of Fashion, she brings readers on a journey through time that starts at the beginning of humanity's history of garment and cloth making and ends in Latin America in 2024. Somers also travels the world and highlights the many Indigenous peoples who first used the fibers and dyes that people still use and wear in the 21st century.

The Nature of Fashion is not a reference guide nor a straightforward history, but a poetic celebration of each culture and its contributions. Somers follows the strands through time as the first humans learned to make cloth out of bark and flax, to whiten their cloth in the snow, and to create language out of knots. In the 21st century, war, peace, and sustainability create the current state of thread, where humans are once again learning to coexist with the plants they weave and rediscovering their wisdom.

Somers transports readers, whether she is discussing Papua New Guinea in 30 CE or Brazil in 1870, or the multitudes of other times and places in The Nature of Fashion. She discusses how the color puce bewitched Marie Antoinette and her court, and when the English tried to stop the Irish from wearing yards of saffron yellow.

An excellent choice for readers interested in a deeper look at the way humans clothe themselves, The Nature of Fashion will fit in on any bookshelf containing Aja Barber's Consumed or Victoria Finlay's Color. Dense but engaging, The Nature of Fashion is a fashion history like no other. --Alyssa Parssinen, freelance reviewer and former bookseller
Photo: https://mod.gov.ua

Ukraine intends to prepare and provide eight demining battalions with modern equipment by the end of 2025, which will allow more than 450 groups to perform demining tasks in extremely difficult combat conditions, the press service of the Ministry of Defense reported following the meeting of the working group of the member states of the coalition of demining capabilities.

The Ministry of Defense specified that this international platform coordinates support for Ukraine in combat and humanitarian demining. The platform includes 14 countries and four international organizations. Forty-three delegates attended the meeting. The delegates had the opportunity to observe the coalition's activities firsthand at demining program sites, personnel training sites, and logistical support sites.

During the meeting, Ukraine reported that nearly 3,990 people have been trained with the support of the EU Military Assistance Mission to Ukraine, Tetra Tech (USA), Mriya Aid (Canada), and Spain.

Ukraine has received equipment worth over EUR 408 million from the following countries and partners: Germany, Lithuania, Denmark, Slovakia, Finland, Iceland, Tetra Tech (USA), the United Nations Office for Project Services (funded by the Netherlands), and Mriya Aid (Canada). More than EUR 111 million worth of equipment was purchased with contributions from Lithuania, Sweden, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, and Denmark.

Additionally, two implementation plans for developing demining capabilities for 2026 were presented to the partners: one for the State Special Transport Service and one for the Support Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Meeting participants also discussed equipment supply and procurement for 20252026 and familiarized themselves with the capabilities of the Ministry of Defense's and the Armed Forces of Ukraine's demining units.
The Entrepreneurship Awareness Drive-Local Startups Meet 2025 is an initiative organized by the Entrepreneurship Cell, IIT Kharagpur, which made a resounding impact this year. It brings together young innovators, ambitious founders, and seasoned professionals under one vibrant platform dedicated to cultivating Indias entrepreneurial potential.

EAD-LSM 2025 was successfully conducted across 25+ cities in India, reaching over 25,000 students and 1000+ local startups nationwide. The initiative featured an inspiring lineup of keynote sessions, workshops, fireside chat, and panel sessions, all aimed at nurturing entrepreneurial thinking among young minds.

The event featured an exceptional lineup of speakers, including Mr. Ram Mohan Rao (Executive Director, Investigation, SEBI), Mr. Japesh Jayadhevan (CEO, Hocco Foods Pvt. Ltd.), Mr. Willpower Harris (CEO, Willpower Consultation), Mr. Deepit Purkayastha (Co-Founder & CEO, Inshorts), Mr. Karthikeyan Natarajan (Co-CEO, Infinite Uptime India Pvt. Ltd. & CEO, Cyient), and Mr. Sufiyan I. (CEO, Cloud Hire), who shared their invaluable insights and experiences with the audience. Complementing this, the panel discussion delivered powerful insights into Indias evolving startup policy, funding ecosystem, and technology-driven transformation.

As part of LSM, startups were given a platform to pitch their ideas before investors, fostering meaningful networking and investment opportunities. The joint effort between EADs nationwide outreach and LSMs curated startup showcase successfully brought together angel investors, venture capitalists, and industry leaders from across the country, promoting regional collaboration, mentorship, and strategic partnerships.

The support of major corporate partners, including Kotak Mahindra Bank (Title Partner), Redoq (Co-Title Partner), CNBC (Title Media Partner), Binance (Strategic Partner), and Sundaram Finance Group (Strategic Partner), further enhanced the reach and quality of the event. Associate partners such as LaunchEd Global, Abhibus, V2A, DojoWorks, VoiceOwl, and BookMyMentor helped expand access to entrepreneurial education and community-building resources.?

A notable highlight was the soft launch of Kuick Studio by Redoq in 25+ cities, symbolizing the synergy between creative entrepreneurship and technology-driven innovation. The initiative reflected how institutional events like EAD-LSM bridge the gap between academic entrepreneurship and real-world innovation ecosystems.?

As a flagship initiative under IIT Kharagpurs Rajendra Mishra School of Engineering Entrepreneurship (RMSoEE), EAD-LSM 2025 demonstrated the power of collaboration in driving grassroots entrepreneurship and shaping future enterprises. The initiative reaffirmed IIT Kharagpurs mission of building an enterprising India by empowering youth through education, skill development, and mentorship.?

EAD-LSM 2025 emerged as a powerful catalyst for Indias growing startup ecosystem inspiring innovation, collaboration, and entrepreneurial action across the nation. By uniting students, founders, investors, and industry leaders under one platform, it not only strengthened the bridge between academia and enterprise but also sparked a renewed commitment toward building a self-reliant, innovation-driven India.

The initiatives widespread reach, strategic partnerships, and focus on real-world opportunities reaffirmed its role as a cornerstone in shaping the next generation of Indian entrepreneurs.
Reliance Retail appoints Srivats TS as SVP & Head of Marketing

Former Netflix VP brings strong brand and campaign expertise

Srivats to strengthen marketing strategy across retail businesses

Reliance Retail has appointed Srivats TS as its new Senior Vice President and Head of Marketing, marking a key leadership addition as the company continues to scale its brand and consumer initiatives. Srivats most recently served as Vice President of Marketing at Netflix, where he played a major role in shaping the streaming platforms brand presence in India.

Srivats brings more than a decade of marketing experience across global brands. He began his career with an internship at Hindustan Unilever, gaining early exposure to consumer insights and brand strategy. He later joined Nokia, where he rose to the role of Marketing Manager, Brand Activation.

At Nokia, Srivats led end-to-end campaign development and managed brand messaging across television, print, digital, radio and retail channels. He also handled major product launches, creative strategy and agency partnerships, helping strengthen the companys brand footprint during a critical growth period.

His move to Reliance Retail comes at a time when the company is expanding its presence across fashion, grocery, consumer electronics, and e-commerce. As SVP and Head of Marketing, Srivats is expected to drive stronger storytelling, sharper brand identity and integrated campaigns across the companys diverse portfolio.

Also Read: Kaushalya Logistics Names Rajendra Singh Shekhawat as New CEO

Industry observers say his experience at Netflix, where digital-first consumer engagement is central, will be particularly valuable as Reliance Retail deepens its omnichannel strategy and focuses on customer experience.

With this appointment, Reliance Retail reinforces its push to bring in seasoned marketing leaders who can shape future-ready brand strategies for one of Indias largest retail ecosystems.
The Staten Island Fentanyl and Overdose Task Force reveals its legislative agenda during a news conference Wednesday hosted by District Attorney Michael E. McMahon at his office in St. George on Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2025. McMahon speaks at the podium. Ileana Acosta, director of behavioral health at the Staten Island Performing Provider System, stands behind the podium. Dr. Ginny Mantello, director of Health and Wellness at the Borough Presidents Office, is at right. (Advance/SILive.com | Jan Somma-Hammel)

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  The Staten Island Fentanyl and Overdose Task Force is calling for a statewide ban on the sale of kratom, a legal but dangerous substance that critics say is being marketed to children.

Kratom, an opioid-like substance, could become the next major gateway drug that sets children on the path to addiction, according to the task forces final report and recommendations for Gov. Kathy Hochul and state legislators.

The report, unveiled at a news conference earlier this month hosted by District Attorney Michael E. McMahon, shines a spotlight on the plant-based substance that often is touted as a natural supplement.

Widely sold at convenience stores, delis and gas stations on Staten Island and throughout the United States, kratom is legal in New York and most other states and is not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

In the U.S., the use of kratom has increased markedly in recent years, according to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.

McMahon previously said he cannot prosecute for kratom because it is not on the schedule of controlled substances for New York State.

The task force unanimously agreed to advocate for statewide regulation of kratom after Dr. Tucker Woods, associate chairman of emergency medicine at Northwell Staten Island University Hospital, and Jayne Graham, a grieving mother, raised the alarm about the substance during a task force meeting earlier this year.

Produced from the leaves of the mitragyna speciosa tree native to Southeast Asia, kratom acts as a stimulant when ingested in small amounts and as a sedative when consumed in higher doses, according to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.

The drug affects the opioid receptors that are found throughout the body and play a role in regulating pain, according to medical experts.

At low doses, it mellows you out, Woods said. But at high doses, it acts just like an opioid. It goes to the opioid receptors, and I almost consider it like opioids being sold in gas stations and smoke shops.

Woods described kratom as a huge problem both in terms of its addictive quality and the fact that its so accessible. When you buy your lottery tickets, you can also get kratom.

The doctor cautioned that when it comes to kratom, its buyer beware because in these gas stations and smoke shops, it might say kratom, but you have no idea whats in it.

Push to keep kratom away from kids

The task force unanimously agreed that kratoms status as a legal drug represents a grave public-health risk and has asked that the substance be added to the New York State Schedule of Controlled Substances.

The report also points out that there is no age limit for purchasing kratom in the borough and throughout the state, turning children into easy prey for unscrupulous manufacturers and sellers.

Like the vaping epidemic, kratom products are marketed in appealing forms that could draw adolescents and young adults, according to the report. Without regulation or education, young people risk using kratom as a gateway into opioid and substance addiction.

But setting an age limit for sale, such as is currently in place for cigarettes and alcohol, would not go far enough in protecting the public, according to the report.

Implementing age restrictions alone will not be enough to address the underlying risk, according to the report. Kratoms chemical composition and addictive potential make it an opioid-like substance that should not be available for casual or unmonitored use.

Kratom contains the highly addictive component 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH).

The task force seeks statewide regulation, public-awareness campaigns, and retail accountability to curb exposure among minors and protect the next generation.

Since the product is not subject to oversight by the Food and Drug Administration, manufacturers do not have to comply with any safety standards. They are free to determine the ingredients and change them at any time, experts say.

Kratom is dangerously under-regulated, with no oversight of potency, manufacturing, or additives according to the report. Variability in product composition means that consumers can unknowingly ingest lethal combinations, including synthetic opioids and adulterants.

The Food and Drug Administration has warned consumers not to use kratom because of the risk of serious adverse events, including liver toxicity, seizures, and substance use disorder, according to the agencys website. In rare cases, deaths have been associated with kratom use, as confirmed by a medical examiner or toxicology reports. However, in these cases, kratom was usually used in combination with other drugs, and the contribution of kratom in the deaths is unclear.

The task force is asking the governor and the state legislature to do the following:

Add kratom (mitragyna speciosa) to the New York State Schedule of Controlled Substances as a Schedule I substance;

Ban or tightly regulate retail sale and distribution of kratom products across all commercial outlets;

Implement statewide enforcement measures to prevent youth-targeted marketing and underage access;

Launch public education campaigns to raise awareness of kratoms dangers, particularly among young people and families;

Monitor and analyze kratom-related overdose and hospitalization data to inform future prevention and treatment strategies.

The Staten Island Fentanyl and Overdose Task Force reveals its legislative agenda during a news conference Wednesday hosted by District Attorney Michael E. McMahon at his office in St. George on Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2025. McMahon speaks at the podium. (Advance/SILive.com | Jan Somma-Hammel)

Mother says son died from using kratom

Jayne Graham told the task force that her son, Francis, 34, died after overdosing on kratom in April 2023. She recalled the horror of finding her son after she knocked on his bedroom door because she hadnt seen him for a few hours.

Im a mother with a vengeance, Graham said, explaining that she has been trying to raise awareness about the dangers of kratom.

Im just stunned that its not even regulated, let alone illegal, Woods said of kratom. But I think at a minimum, it has to be regulated.

Woods said that users often develop a super high tolerance to kratom. He cited a patient who escalated from seven to 80 capsules per day in just a few weeks, consuming all doses within minutes of waking for the day.

Woods warned that some companies will extract that 7-hydroxymitragynine to make it even more potent, so you get it in this little elixir, and it can be deadly.
This screenshot from a video submitted to the Advance/SILive.com shows an overturned vehicle on Rockland Avenue in Egbertville around 2 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 28. Reader submitted photo

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  A brief video submitted to the Advance/SILive.com showed an overturned vehicle in front of a home on Rockland Avenue, near Eleanor Street, in Egbertville.

The four-second video was provided to the Advance/SILive.com at 2 a.m. on Friday, shortly after the incident took place.

The video shows a handful of FDNY members responding to the crash and assessing the damages. The white vehicle could be seen on its side, just a couple feet from a nearby residents mailbox.

The FDNY did not respond to a request for comment by the time of publication, leaving it unclear whether there were any injuries.

This story will be updated as additional information is made available.
The Great Kills ShopRite supermarket, located in Evergreen Plaza, reopened Friday after a Wednesday afternoon fire prompted a storewide evacuation and massive FDNY response. Advance/SILive.com | Erik Bascome

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  It was back to business as usual at the ShopRite in Great Kills on Friday just two days after a Thanksgiving Eve fire prompted a storewide evacuation and a massive FDNY response.

The Advance/SILive.com visited the store Friday morning and found dozens of shoppers filling their carts with groceries less than 48 hours after a fire in the paper goods aisle filled the store with heavy smoke.

A faint smell of smoke still lingered in the store, and workers were observed restocking the paper goods aisle where the fire reportedly broke out.

All other aisles and sections of the store were fully stocked, with essentially no indication of the event that occurred two days prior.

Firefighters respond to the ShopRite on Greaves Lane in Great Kills on Wednesday, Nov. 26, 2025. (Advance/SILive.com | Scott Axelrod)

The blaze broke out on Wednesday in an aisle of the supermarkets recently opened location on Greaves Lane in Evergreen Plaza at 3:44 p.m., a spokesperson for the FDNY told the Advance/SILive.com.

Multiple fire engines were on the scene with ladders stretched to the top of the supermarket, while scores of fully-equipped firefighters with hoses lined up outside the building.

In total, 12 units with 60 FDNY and EMS members were dispatched to the location, the FDNY spokesperson said.

The blaze was brought under control at 4:44 p.m.

Firefighters respond to the ShopRite on Greaves Lane in Great Kills on Wednesday, Nov. 26, 2025. (Advance/SILive.com | Scott Axelrod)

An Advance/SILive.com reporter at the scene observed thick white smoke through the windows of the supermarket, with FDNY officials deploying ventilation fans to clear the smoke.

No injuries were reported, the official said.

A ShopRite employee told the Advance/SILive.com that moments after the fire broke out, and as store sprinklers began raining down, an attempt was made to douse the flames with a fire extinguisher. The heavy smoke made it difficult to see and store managers called for all employees to give up their efforts and evacuate the building.

It literally couldnt have happened in a worse spot, the employee said, going on to explain that the flames quickly began consuming all of the paper products in the aisle.

Workers and shoppers gather in the parking lot outside the ShopRite. (Advance/SILive.com | Scott Axelrod)

The employee noted that the supermarket was super busy with customers, some of whom began running with their shopping carts trying to reach the registers before they were asked to abandon their grocery hauls and vacate the premises.

A number of other customers, the employee explained, could be seen standing at the end of the aisle where the fire occurred shooting video of the blaze on their phones. Some of this footage has already been making the rounds on social media, the employee said.

Dozens of employees were gathered in the shopping center parking lot until they were eventually dismissed by store management and sent home.

Several customers who showed up in the parking lot on Wednesday to get the final ingredients for their Thanksgiving feasts were shocked when they saw the FDNY response.

One woman who spoke with the Advance/SILive.com said she was coming to pick up her Thanksgiving order.

Another shopper said: Im glad I picked up my turkey yesterday.
We dont see it being associated with the source of the energy. It is primarily a network condition, Lacaze told investors on Wednesday. The actual problem is the fact that the gold mining town continues to be served by a single high voltage 220Kv power line. It is literally a single point of failure for the region despite the billions of dollars WA has made from the iron ore boom. Lynas Rare Earths chief executive officer Amanda Lacaze at the companys processing plant in Kalgoorlie, Western Australia. Credit: Bloomberg Lacazes point with the diesel reference in the Lynas ASX statement was that Lynas was hoping to rely on something more environmentally friendly than the diesel generators that power most remote mining sites including, until recently, its Mt Weld lithium mine. One of the benefits for Kalgoorlie was access to grid power. And as it turns out, that has not been as successful as we thought that it was going to be, she told this masthead.

Lynas is now scrambling to ensure any ongoing problems will not lead to a drop in production for the financial year and its short-term solution is likely to be diesel. But you only need to look at Mt Weld to see where Lynas and other miners see their long-term energy future. Mt Weld features a 7MW solar farm, a 24MW wind farm, and a 12MW battery storage system, which means, as Lacaze told investors this week, it can run for weeks at a time entirely on renewable energy. Solar, wind turbines, batteries. It is everything Rinehart loathes in spades, as anyone who heard the Mining Day speech can attest. So why is Rinehart one of the biggest investors in Lynas, which survives on providing these crucial elements to wind turbines and EVs, as well as electronics and defence applications? And it is not an outlier either among her multi-billion dollar investment portfolio, which extends to cattle, tech and an enviable list of properties.

Rineharts Hancock Prospecting has recently emerged as the largest shareholder in US-based rare earths group MP Materials. Closer to home, it also has a substantial stake in Arafura Rare Earths. But nothing highlights the contrast between Rineharts rhetoric and business interests better than ASX-listed Vulcan Energy. US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hold up signed agreements on critical minerals and rare earths last month. Credit: AP Rineharts Hancock Mining holds a substantial shareholding in Europe-based Vulcan Energy, which is betting its future on producing zero-carbon lithium. Vulcan received a 100 million ($177 million) grant from the German government last year to help with its commitment to decarbonising Germanys energy landscape, as its chief executive Cris Moreno said.

But her rare earth forays have been in a class of their own, thanks to one particular friend of Rineharts. All of her rare earth investments soared after US President Donald Trumps trade warfare with China made it necessary to build a critical minerals supply chain that cant be choked off by China. The term rare earths refers to 17 minerals and elements crucial to the manufacture of many high-tech products such as mobile phones, electric cars, wind turbines and, most crucially, military equipment such as fighter jets and nuclear submarines. The broader critical minerals sector includes metals like lithium, which serves electric cars, batteries and solar cells. Chinas restrictions on rare earth exports pretty quickly demonstrated how vital the countrys supplies were to crucial US industries and its defence generally.

Loading This is why Arafura and MP Materials have directly benefited from taxpayer funding under deals announced by the White House and the Australian government last month. Lynas is receiving funding from US defence due to its status as the only operator of a rare earths supply chain outside of China. Rineharts buying spree of rare earths and lithium stocks in recent years meant no one was better positioned to benefit from this boom than her. According to Forbes, the value of her high-tech metal investments soared to more than $US2.5 billion after of Trumps deals last month. It is now a growing slice of Rineharts $US33 billion fortune, sourced almost entirely from her inheritance of the companys iron ore tenements.

What no one from Hancock Prospecting is willing to explain is why is Rinehart investing so heavily in these sectors. Australias richest person, and its most avid climate denier is not someone you would expect to indulge a contrarian voice within her trusted circle. But with so much of her wealth dependent on the fortunes of China, some say a rapidly changing geopolitical environment might mean some insurance is called for. From iron ore to lithium, rare earths, copper and potash, Rinehart has methodically built a portfolio that reads like a Western-aligned counterweight to Chinas critical minerals dominance, the Australian Strategic Policy Institutes John Coyne says. Rinehart is playing a different game, and shes playing it well. Her portfolio reflects not just commercial acumen, but strategic foresight.
Advertisement

Exclusive Eating outBakeries Your first look at Self Raised in Merrylands (plus four more bakeries in Sydneys west) Self Raised opened its newest location this week, joining a growing number of pistachio-fuelled bakeries selling artisan cakes, scrolls and filled doughnuts in the western suburbs. Lee Tran Lam November 29, 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

If youre looking for Sydneys latest wave of noteworthy bakeries, head west. A viral Korean chain known for its incredibly light doughnuts has established its first Sydney outpost in Burwood, while Self Raiseds pastries can be found at its new Merrylands location, which opened on Friday. Artisanal fairy bread, customer-generated recipes and border-crossing sweets are more reasons to chase carbs west of Cooks River. 1 / 12 Pain au chocolat cross-section at Self Raised, Merrylands. Sam Mooy 2 / 12 Self Raised, Merrylands. Sam Mooy 3 / 12 Self Raised, Merrylands. Sam Mooy 4 / 12 Tiramisu scroll at Self Raised, Merrylands. Sam Mooy 5 / 12 Self Raised, Merrylands. Sam Mooy 6 / 12 Self Raised, Merrylands. Sam Mooy 7 / 12 Strawberry tart. Sam Mooy 8 / 12 Self Raised, Merrylands. Sam Mooy 9 / 12 Self Raised, Merrylands. Sam Mooy 10 / 12 Self Raised, Merrylands. Sam Mooy 11 / 12 Pain au chocolat. Sam Mooy 12 / 12 Self Raised, Merrylands. Sam Mooy Previous Slide Next Slide Self Raised, Merrylands In February 2023, Sal Senan opened Self Raised Bread Shoppe in Carlton with siblings Amani and Huss Rachid. Crowds surged for their halal-friendly hoagies, cheesy breakfast sandwiches and joyful pastries: Boston cream doughnuts, banoffee tarts, vanilla slices and more. The lines got so long they opened Self Raised Snack Shoppe in nearby Bexley North. Self Raised in Merrylands isnt just a queue-coping mechanism, though  it was inspired by the western Sydney customers who travelled to Self Raiseds previous outposts. This new location happened rather organically, when Huss Rachid was grabbing breakfast at Iftar at Merrylands Mason & Main complex. The owner of the building happened to be there, came over for a chat, and showed him a site they had available. The shop is designed by Matt Woods (who is also responsible for the interiors at Iftar, and Grandfathers in the CBD) and stocks Self Raised fan-favourites such as Boston doughnuts, fruit tarts, sponge cake, plus cinnamon scrolls in pistachio and cream-cheese flavours.

Advertisement

2 Main Lane, Merrylands, selfraised.com.au Patisserie Du Liban, Arncliffe The name translates as Lebanese pastry shop in French but Patisserie Du Liban charts a much wider flight path. There are Levantine sweets, European treats and a pistachio tres leches (three milk) cake worth your time. Owner-chef Zakaria Ali has three decades of industry experience (including 12 years in Lebanon), and daughter Rukaya and wife Maissa also help convey the stores charms. Rukaya might talk you through the baklava varieties, cheesy knafeh that evokes her fathers schooldays, or a Biscoff version of basbousa semolina cake. Then theres the bestselling znoud el sit, made by filling pastry with ashta (clotted cream), frying it and timing the syrup-dip to ensure it stays crisp. This process takes true skill and experience, says Maissa.

Advertisement

Since its December launch, the teal-green shop has served coffee and sweets near Arncliffe station until 10pm (or later during Ramadan). We chose to open here because its such a lively community and we knew people would appreciate authentic Lebanese pastries, says Maissa. 24 Firth Street, Arncliffe, instagram.com/patisserieduliban Brown butter strawberry cake at Luca Bakery. Jessica Hromas Luca Bakery, Castle Hill Theres a lot to notice when you walk into Luca Bakery: the airs scented with toasted nuts and brown butter, a handwritten sign names the local family who grew the peaches that adorn the thyme-dotted galette, the farmhouse-style counter displays super-sized raspberry marshmallows and frosting-rich carrot cake.

Advertisement

Related Article This big-hearted bakery will recreate your grandmothers cake or auntys slice Then theres the table amassing recipes. People leave them for owner (and former MasterChef winner) Larissa Takchi to recreate in the bakerys ovens. One customer has submitted pages on how to prepare Maria Grammaticos genovesi: lemon-custard pastries by the Italian chef who trained in a Sicilian convent. Takchis open invitation to contribute favourite and family recipes is part of the warm, inclusive atmosphere the bakery has emanated since its August opening. 83 David Road, Castle Hill, lucabakery.com.au Cafe Knotted, Burwood. Lee Tran Lam Cafe Knotted, Burwood

Advertisement

Cafe Knotted has attracted long queues for its freshly made doughnuts since its 2017 launch in Seoul. Grab one and the attraction is clear: a whoosh of creamy filling speeds out at the gentlest clutch. Available in many flavours (matcha, Dubai chocolate, Earl Grey, lemon curd, milk cream studded with strawberries), the cascading ooze is surprisingly light  making it easy to vaporise three doughnuts instantly. Burwood was chosen as Cafe Knotteds first Australian site as it sits between the city and Parramatta (a Sydney CBD flagship store is planned for March, says general manager James Lee). While the shop has signage advertising a November opening, construction delays mean Cafe Knotted will open next month instead. Expect croissants, shio pan (salt bread) and iced lattes with corn-based creams, too. This is the Korean brands second international location, following Los Angeles April launch. Lee believes Sydney shouldve been first. Were good enough  if not better, in terms of coffee and pastries. Why not doughnuts? 24 Burwood Road, Burwood, cafeknotted.com.au Kiss My Butter, Chester Hill

Advertisement

Kiss My Butter opened in April and has received much attention for its fairy bread. Baker Colin Waghorn serves it on thick slices of sourdough brioche so the cultured butter soaks right through. The chef, who previously worked at Staple Bakery in Seaforth, remembers when a group of tattooed Harley-Davidson motorcyclists turned up and requested 35 slices. I was there for an hour, buttering bread! he says. Related Article The magic of fairy bread: Why everyone loves Australias rainbow party snack Other bestsellers include the vanilla slice made with rye puff pastry, various scrolls (try the zaatar version with mozzarella cheese) and pizza croissants stuffed with halal pepperoni (Our bakerys all halal, Waghorn says). As for choosing the Chester Hill location, its personal for owner Shadi Wahab. I grew up around here, he says. 82 Waldron Road, Chester Hill, instagram.com/kissmybutter.au Related Collection 110 essential Sydney cafes and bakeries that really take the cake (and everything else)

Restaurant reviews, news and the hottest openings served to your inbox. Sign up
Photo: https://t.me/Denys_Smyhal

Ukrainian Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal inspected the state of defense, military support, and the progress of military operations in Kherson region.

"Today I visited our soldiers defending Kherson region. I reviewed the operational situation along the contact line in the area of responsibility of the 40th Separate Coastal Defense Brigade. The unit's command reported on the current state of the defensive lines, the level of personnel support, the dynamics of combat operations, and the results of mission accomplishments," Shmyhal wrote on Telegram.

The Defense Minister noted that he had discussed with the command the unit's support priorities and rapid response to the challenges facing the military.

He also presented awards to the service members. "The brigade is holding its positions, inflicting significant losses on the enemy, and demonstrating a high level of resilience. Thank you, soldiers, for your bravery!" Shmyhal added.
Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size Id have far more sympathy for Barnaby Joyces frustration at no longer being at the Coalitions top table if hed left parliament altogether (Joyce resigns, clears path to One Nation, November 28). But, like so many other disgruntled MPs (from all parties), his principles obviously dont extend to surrendering the seat he won on the back of his former partys endorsement. The salary, the travel and the platform for sounding off about pet causes are obviously too alluring, and make all the high-minded huffing about service and making a difference so much hot air. And if he genuinely wanted to save the expense of a byelection by sticking around, he should have just sucked it up until the next general one, where he could have either got a mandate of his own or left with at least some integrity. Adrian Connelly, Springwood Credit: Alan Moir Barnaby Joyce should do the right thing and resign as the member for New England. The constituency did not vote for an independent and a prospective member of One Nation. Otherwise, New England will not have a member with any influence, only one happy to collect his pay and perhaps have more Wagyu beef dinners. John Jones, Armidale One Nation can only be represented by people who dont understand irony. Mark Porter, New Lampton Barnaby Joyce has left the National Party to possibly switch to One Nation, which was and is in opposition to the Nationals. Perhaps Joyce might resign his seat to stand for One Nation in a byelection. It would seem the honorable course of action. Steve Bright, North Avoca Who does Barnaby think he is? Daly Cherry-Evans? John Taylor, Toongabbie One is entitled to ask what is Barnaby Joyce trying to achieve? He has walked out on his so-called colleagues so he can be an independent. He wont change any legislation put before the House. Should he become a One Nation senator, he is unlikely to be able to change any legislation put before the Senate. He strikes me as a really lost soul, full of anger and bitterness  a perfect fit for One Nation, which has never done a positive thing to make Australia a better place. John Rome, Mt Lawley (WA)

Advertisement

Given the predictability of the living soap opera that is Barnaby Joyce, I wonder why this news is even worth a headline. I assume he will remain an independent until his publicity and ego require a boost, to be provided by the anticipated defection to One Nation. Meanwhile, the voters of New England will be depending on Joyce to represent their interests at least as much as his own. Philip Cooney, Wentworth Falls My father, Wilhelm Breitkreutz, returned to wartime Germany after six years in Japan in late 1941. He was subsequently drafted into the German Army interpreter corp. He was not a member of the Nazi Party. After emigration to Australia in 1951 he often said that the right wing of the Liberal Party in the 1950s reminded him of the Nazis he lived under. Are we seeing the emergence of the Australian Nazi Party with the alignment of Barnaby Joyce, Pauline Hansons One Nation and the extreme right-wing rump of the Liberal/Nationals? Wolf Breit, Mosman Anyone who thought Joyce would announce what hes going to do in the future doesnt know Joyce. He got a headline by announcing his resignation from the Nats and will continue to get more media from the inevitable speculation about where he may finally land. Why be satisfied with the exposure from one announcement when you can choreograph the ongoing saga and get yourself multiple headlines? While Joyce has many skills, both positive and negative, he has always been most consistent in putting his self-interest front and centre. Joyce is the epitome of the Jack Lang truism, In the race of life, always back self-interest because you know its trying. Ian De Landelles, Murrays Beach The next meeting of the Nationals and the Coalition will start with Barnaby who? while they all smile and quickly move on to a better place for the team. Peter Kamenyitzky, Copacabana Double trouble One Nation is feeding off the dregs of the Coalition (One Nation is thriving despite appalling stunts, November 28). So what? One Nation votes in line with the Coalition. The parties have always been closely aligned. Whats happening now is simply a shuffling of deckchairs, creating two unelectable parties instead of one. The racist stunts are just consolidating its base. Standard political practice. Phil Bradshaw, Naremburn Credit: David Rowe

Advertisement

I suspect that the perceived swing of disaffected Coalition voters to One Nation is out of boredom and chagrin. The May election was overwhelming. The rejection of Peter Dutton and his mob left a bit of a vacuum in the conservatives. What to do? Squabbles and a desire to spend more time with the family will always take a toll and, if not, we always have Hanson and now Joyce to distract the wannabes. What our parliament needs and gets is a nice, long, paid Christmas break so everyone there can take a deep breath, relax and come back some time in the New Year, prepared to do their best for their country: thats us. Nola Tucker, Kiama Why does Pauline Hanson consider the very tiny minority of Australian women wearing burqas a security threat? Pauline, you havent complained about the Nazi demonstrators wearing face-covering masks outside Parliament House and yet they are a far greater threat to our security and social cohesion. Please explain? Amalina Wallace, Erskineville PM needs courage James Massolas excellent reporting (Husics dare to PMs complacent army, November 28) on Labors missed legislative opportunities and Ed Husics downgrading should be compulsive summer-break reading for Albanese and his crew. Husic points clearly to the areas that show Labors reform-shy approach to issues that seem to matter to many. It has become clear that Albanese hasnt yet got the courage to do great things. He has stamped himself as a moderate of small proportions when we require a braver, more urgent government response to issues such as negative gearing and the broken housing supply systems. Let us hope, then, that over the summer break Anthony Albanese discovers courage and Richard Marles finds a conscience. Rob Asser, Balmain East Labor MP Ed Husic. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen Ed Husic and most Australians would be rightly enraged to find out that Japan is buying gas that it does not need at dirt-cheap prices and then selling it at a tidy profit to other countries. When Australian gas consumers are facing ever-increasing prices and supply shortages, this idiotic situation cannot be allowed to continue. Husics suggestion that supply to Japan be cut by the amounts it sells, and clearly does not need, seems eminently sensible and would largely solve Australias domestic supply and cost problems. Sadly it would require Albanese to have the courage to take on the gas giants, and that is unlikely. Ross Hudson, Mount Martha (Vic) Oily customer

Advertisement

Following the logic and detail of the article on Putins ghost ships (How Putins ghost ships put billions worth of blood oil into Australian cars, smh.com.au, November 28) it shouldnt be difficult to identify which branded outlets the refined Russian oil is retailed through here. Then we can boycott them. Gary Stowe, Springwood Learning exercise for use of AI The looming significance of AI is highlighted in this front-page story (Official used husbands AI tool to fast-track housing, November 28). The job was urgent, a public servant could see the potential of AI and had access to such a tool. Job done. Or not, as now it has to be reviewed. Hopefully this contretemps is a valuable learning exercise for the use of AI in other public sector agencies. Margaret Johnston, Paddington Oh my god: an official from the Department of Lots of Things trying to speed up development approvals. We cant have that  isnt using your initiative against the rules? And think of the public servants who might become redundant. I dont get all the fuss about AI. Just turn it off at the wall. Brian Haisman, Winmalee Not only does AI not create new knowledge, it ignores all knowledge that has not been written down. What about all the wisdoms passed down orally, from generation to generation, in off-the-beaten-track languages? So what do I say to AI? Bah, humbug! Pen Layton-Caisley, Marrickville No misses here As a feminist who believes all people are equal and entitled to equal opportunity, Ive been a Ms for yonks, but thank you, Cherie Gilmour (Am I a Miss, Ms or Mrs? This teachers had some near Misses, November 28), for your witty analysis pointing out the conundrums of using a simple title for women. I chose Ms to make a political statement: females are equal to men. At the time it felt a bit subversive. A small thing but not. So lets remove Miss and Mrs, theyre outdated, and as a male champion of women once announced, Its time! Jennifer Fergus, Croydon

Advertisement

How many misses in a Ms or two? Credit: Getty Images In everyday life Im a Ms but have decided to embrace the term madam and from now on would like to be known as Madam Clarke. Lisa Clarke, Watsons Bay From 1963 to 68 in a suburban Sydney government boys high school it was only ever sir or maam. Uncomplicated, respectful, and marital status irrelevant in both cases. Jeffrey Mellefont, Coogee Pricy hose $122 million and they have to fill it with a hose duct-taped to a handrail (Nearly five years after it was drained, theres water in North Sydney pool, smh.com.au, November 28)? Gobsmacked! Peter Hull, Katoomba Take good care Like all others I am devastated by the recent death and severe injury by shark of a young couple doing what so many Australians love to do: swim in the sea (Climate change a factor as shark bites increase, November 28). And I, too, have a constant and uneasy awareness, when in the sea, of the possibly lurking danger of a shark attack. At the same time, while records show the number of shark deaths in Australia is increasing, this totals only 56 between 2000 and (so far) in 2025. At the same time, Australian road deaths (of all road users, from drivers to pedestrians) in 2000 totalled 1817 and, while this number has steadily decreased since, by 2024 the total had only declined to 1300. And yet, by that odd quirk of the human mind, when it comes to a vehicle that we feel is indispensable to our lives we manage to shut down that fear factor. And more often than not, those deaths do not become front-page news. I used to tease my mother when she worried, every time I crossed a road, about what might happen. Looking back, it was she who got it right. And we should all do more about that. Anne Ring, Coogee

Advertisement
These are tough times for many tertiary institutions as declining international student revenues lead to course closures, departmental amalgamations and headcount reductions.

The University of Technology Sydney suffered its own moment of truth in September, when, after recording a deficit of $78 million last year, it announced more than 10 per cent of academic jobs, about 400 positions, would go. Further, 167 courses and 1101 subjects would be discontinued by shutting the schools of education, international studies and public health.

UTS had been taking a lot of political heat and was targeted for industrial action due to its overzealous pruning, and, now, coupled with the possible realisation that causing potential student flight was a massive own goal, the administration has blinked.

The Heralds new higher education reporter Sally Rawsthorne writes that vice chancellor Andrew Parfitt on Wednesday emailed staff to announce most of the proposed changes would not go ahead as the executive team had planned. We listened and considered that feedback and have identified some preliminary outcomes that balance the need to ensure the university is financially sustainable with the desire to lay a strong foundation for long-term success and delivery of high-quality education and research for our communities, he said.
The battle over the estate of Jeffrey Epstein victim Virginia Giuffre intensified in Western Australias Supreme Court on Friday after a registrar signalled her husband and other previously uninvolved figures may need to be brought into the increasingly messy dispute.

The legal fight centres on Giuffres two teenage sons, her long-time Perth-based lawyer and her former housekeeper, who are all contesting who should inherit and control her estate following her sudden death in April.

Virginia Giuffre died in Perth in April. Credit: Getty

Giuffre, who received a widely reported 12 million ($24 million) out-of-court settlement from disgraced royal Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor in 2022, died without a valid will, leaving the future of her assets in dispute.

A statement of claim filed in September shows her estate has a listed value of at least $500,000, which included company shares, trust interests, two vehicles, jewellery, a horse and her Neergabby farm property in the WA Wheatbelt.
A Perth father-of-threes double life has been revealed in court as he was jailed for using his IT skills to hack into the personal data of scores of unsuspecting women.

Michael Clapsis, 44, was sentenced on Friday in Perth District Court after a major police investigation uncovered thousands of intimate images and videos of women  one of whom was just 17  on his devices last year.

Michael Clapsis admitted creating a fake Wi-Fi.

The IT professional, who grew up in Mosman Park and went to Christian Brothers College in Fremantle, was arrested at Perth Airport after an airline employee reported concerns about a suspicious WiFi network during a domestic flight in April 2024.

Australian Federal Police searched Clapsis luggage and seized a portable wireless access device, a laptop and a mobile phone from his hand luggage. They also searched his Palmyra home.
Fine just fine you never treated me well any way f--- you and your f---ing dumbass cat hope it dies c---

This is a copy of a real-life text message received by my daughter earlier this year in the wake of breaking up with her first boyfriend. She was 12 years old.

This week, Im thinking about what that message represents, not just for my daughter but for every girl growing up in a world where digital spaces allow men  and boys  to enact new forms of harm.

How to address an increase in digital violence against women and girls? Credit: iStock

We are four days into a United Nations global campaign, 16 Days of Activism to End Gender-Based Violence, which runs until Human Rights Day on December 10. The campaigns theme this year: End digital violence against all women and girls.
Brooks questioned the charges but was told by a manager that systems automation applied the fees and that removing them might encourage other owners to be opportunistic. Such fees have not held up under legal scrutiny. Earlier this year, a VCAT member blasted an owners corporation manager for loading thousands of dollars in unlawful and misleading fees onto a lot owners account. In that decision, VCAT found the manager had hit the owner with charges that had no tenable basis in fact or law, including for debt collection, invalid levies and legal work to chase late fees that were claimed twice. The tribunal struck out thousands of dollars in fees, ruling that owners corporations have no inherent legal right to include these items in a fee or final fee notice at all.

Generally, the only legal financial recourse available to owners corporations for arrears is the 10 per cent penalty interest. Any other cost  including the fee for a final notice  cannot be demanded as a debt unless ordered by VCAT, and strata managers cannot place these on an owners fee notice. Despite these rulings, documents obtained by The Age show management companies continue to pass motions to enforce these charges. Minutes from an August meeting at Brooks residential complex show resolutions to impose late fees of up to $150. While the manager bills the owners corporation for these fees, the corporation cannot automatically pass that debt onto the individual owner. Instead, the corporation must get an order from VCAT to legally recover the cost. It cannot simply pass through the fee  a practice ruled unlawful by VCAT in 2022.

However, managers contracted to prepare fee notices are ignoring this ruling, and automatically add the charges to owners bills via software. Lawyer Fabienne Loncar recently told an industry podcast that corporations were still trying to pass on costs they were not entitled to by simply tacking them onto bills without a tribunal order. The charging of administrative and debt recovery fees has become a lucrative revenue stream for the $471 billion Victorian strata sector. Credit: Eddie Jim BCSG, which manages the owners corporation at Brooks building, did not respond to a request for comment. Other companies are engaging in similar practices.

A policy from OCVM Group, obtained by The Age, warns owners that if their fees are more than 14 days overdue, they will receive a reminder notice which is charged at $46. If the bill remains unpaid after 45 days, the policy states the owner will receive a final notice which is charged at $110. OCVM defended its processes, claiming owners corporations could recover the fees themselves from owners. But it did not respond to questions about those pass on mechanisms being unlawful. Breaking ranks While some firms defend the practice, others have backed down.

Another firm, Verticali, admitted it had issued fee statements in 2023  seen by The Age  which listed debt recovery costs of up to $75. A spokesman blamed the charges on a default system setting in a new software program and said the firm quickly dumped the charges.

As soon as the issue was identified, Verticali immediately turned this setting off and reversed the charges against any affected lots, the spokesman said. Verticali accepts and complies with VCATs interpretation. The Age has also heard from smaller managers who reject the industry standard. The deterrent debate In a statement, the industrys peak body, Strata Community Association (Vic), acknowledged that owners corporations do not currently have lawful power to directly recover administrative or debt-recovery charges ... unless ordered by a tribunal.

However, it rejected the description of the fees as predatory, arguing that compliant owners were frequently left subsidising the costs generated by persistent non-payers. Significant extra administration is required to manage defaulting lot owners and it is inequitable that the owners corporation, often comprising a majority of responsible lot owners who pay on time, should subsidise defaulting lots owners, and indemnify them for administrative costs incurred as a linear result of their recalcitrance, the peak body said. The body also questioned the legitimacy of the tribunals rulings, describing VCAT as not an authoritative court of record and described the tribunals decisions as rough justice. Strata Owners Alliance founder Adam Promnitz. Credit: Justin McManus Adam Promnitz, the founder of Strata Owners Alliance, said the peak bodys defence of the unlawful charges showed an extraordinary level of entitlement and arrogance.

Its clear the sector is badly out of touch and in urgent need of stronger regulation, he said. Promnitz said there was no legitimate cost in chasing arrears as the process is automated through software, and he disputed the claim that extra fees were needed as a deterrent, noting that he self-manages his own 42 townhouse complex and keeps arrears near zero using only the existing legal tools: penalty interest and court orders. We support the continued recovery of penalty interest ... [but] no council, telco or utilities company is allowed to charge fees like this, he said. The simple fact is this was predatory and managers profited every time they add these illegal fees to an invoice. Enforcement unchecked Opposition consumer affairs spokesman Tim McCurdy said the government had allowed the watchdog to drift off course by focusing heavily on real estate agents while ignoring strata managers.

Opposition consumer affairs spokesman Tim McCurdy. Fee-gouging is never acceptable ... Consumer Affairs should be policing the whole property market, but the Allan Labor government has narrowed its focus and left serious issues unchecked, McCurdy said. While the states consumer watchdog explicitly warns against rogue fees, Consumer Affairs Victoria said it had no powers to enforce the Owners Corporation Act. A state government spokesperson confirmed that owners corporations cant charge administrative fees and that all levies must be lawful. The spokesperson said an independent expert panel had specifically been tasked to examine whether existing measures in the act to address non-compliance ... are sufficiently robust. We made significant reforms in 2021 to better reflect the needs of the one in four Victorians who live in apartments, the spokesperson said.
Advertisement

InspirationTrain journeys Britains historic rail journey now has a new, must-do stop Julietta Jameson November 29, 2025  5:00am 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

The historic Caledonian Sleeper, a multi-line train service linking England and Scotland that dates to 1873, has made its most significant route change in 30 years. It now offers a stop at Birmingham on the way from London (Euston station) to various Scottish locations, and vice versa. The Caledonian Sleeper at Glasgow station. For Australian travellers, that makes it possible to go from the geographic centre of England where attractions such as the Cotswolds lie, to the Scottish Highlands where Loch Ness is, just for starters, among the litany of highlights. Sleeper rail is the very definition of slow travel, and this option almost guarantees the journey being as fabulous as the destinations at either end. The Midlands stop starts in January and is on three Highlands routes. One is the London-Fort William train, which leaves Euston Station at 9.15pm, stopping in Birmingham about 90 minutes later before pushing north and into Scotland. Coming the other way, it departs Fort William just before 8pm, arriving in Birmingham at 6.20am and London at 8am. The London to Aberdeen train also now includes Birmingham, as does London to Inverness, both return.

Advertisement

The Caledonian Sleeper and Forth Bridge in Scotland. Peter Devlin The Lowlands services, London to Glasgow and London to Edinburgh (return), do not include Birmingham. While nothing says romance of the rails like a British sleeper train, the Caledonian Sleeper is one of only two overnight trains in the UK, the other being the Night Riviera linking London and Penzance, Cornwall. Around the world, these kinds of services are increasingly becoming attractions for their own sake rather than commuter options. Luxury trains such as Belmonds Venice Simplon-Orient-Express or Journey Beyonds The Ghan preserve the tradition, wrapping it up with plush cabins, elevated dining and exclusive off-train experiences.

Advertisement

But you can still find more utilitarian sleepers in Europe, Asia, and even Australia, where inter-capital XPTs offer the option. The Caledonian Sleeper continues to be an accessible overnight experience, with cabins for two from $500. And unlike air travel, you arrive right in the centre of town. An en suite room on the Caledonian Sleeper. In addition to the schedule change that adds Birmingham, Scottish Rail Holdings, which now runs the Caledonian Sleeper on behalf of Scotlands government (Transport Scotland), introduced upgrades in 2019, adding cabins with ensuites  some of them with double beds  as well as more comfortable seating, Wi-Fi and charging capabilities. And if youre wondering about missing all that scenery in the dark (hopefully youll be sleeping, part of the way, anyway), consider the fact that daylight hours are long in the warmer months at these latitudes.

Advertisement

The Byron Bay train is now available for a drive. Change to British rail of the more zippy kind is also afoot, with Virgin Trains receiving approval on its application to share the Temple Mills International depot in Leyton, East London with Eurostar, as it eyes a Channel Tunnel service between London and Paris that it hopes to be running by 2030. Related Article 

Train journeys The verdict on new, extended version of Australias epic train journey Meanwhile, train buffs in Australia looking for a hands-on experience should book themselves a holiday in Byron Bay. The Byron Bay Railroad Company is offering the chance to drive their solar-powered train that runs along a small section of restored track between North Beach near Elements of Byron and Byron township.

Advertisement

There are half-day and full-day options, although not cheap: the half-day costs $550 a person and the full day $960. See sleeper.scot; byronbaytrain.com.au

Sign up for the Traveller Deals newsletter Get exclusive travel deals delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up now.

Traveller Guides
The resignation of Volodymyr Zelenskys chief of staff leaves the Ukrainian president deprived of his most important adviser at a critical moment in the fight against the Russian invasion.

Andriy Yermak has been Zelenskys lead negotiator in talks with Ukraines allies and helped convince the US to leave out some unpalatable elements from a proposed peace plan last week.

Aides say the relationship between Andriy Yermak (left) and Volodymyr Zelensky goes beyond work. Credit: AP

His departure, amid a spiralling corruption scandal, comes just as US President Donald Trump is pushing Ukraine to make concessions to Russia to end almost four years of fighting and Zelenskys forces are facing shortages of weapons and funding.

Yermaks decision followed a search of his apartment by anti-graft investigators early on Friday, Kyiv time. While authorities didnt offer an explanation for the raid, they have been pursuing a widening probe that has drawn in several ministers and one of Zelenskys former business partners. Yermak said he was co-operating fully with the investigation. He hasnt been accused of involvement of any wrongdoing.
The horrific ambush of two National Guard troops on the streets of Washington, DC, presents the United States with a diabolical situation.

Its important to note that we do not know all the facts of the case. We dont know the alleged shooters current circumstances, mental status or politics. Prosecutors and police have not yet alleged a motive, though the charges against him have been upgraded to first-degree murder.

National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom, who died after being shot on the streets of Washington. Credit: AP

What we do know is that the suspect is an Afghan man who worked with the Americans, including the CIA, during the US operation in Afghanistan before 2021.

He was one of tens of thousands of Afghans to whom the US gave refuge as it withdrew from the country  a necessary undertaking, given the danger they were in when the Taliban quickly retook control.
On Friday night, a strike was carried out on what was likely the Engels airfield of the Russian Aerospace Forces' Long-Range Aviation, according to Andriy Kovalenko, head of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine's Center for Countering Disinformation.

"Saratov, Engelsthe Russians really enjoyed the night attack. Aircraft that carry out strikes on Ukraine are based in Engels," he wrote on Telegram on Friday.

Kovalenko noted that the enemy has recently been preparing for another combined strike on Ukraine.
Press Release from Business Wire: VeritasChain Standards Organization



(AFP) Nov 28, 2025



TOKYO, Nov 28, 2025 (BSW) - The VeritasChain Standards Organization (VSO), an independent international standards body, today announced the global release of VeritasChain Protocol (VCP) v1.0, an open cryptographic audit protocol designed to provide mathematically provable transparency for AI?driven and algorithmic trading systems.

VCP replaces mutable server logs with a tamper?evident chain of cryptographic evidence, enabling regulators, brokers, exchanges and trading firms to move from trust?based oversight to verification?based supervision.

Why This Matters Now

The launch of VCP v1.0 comes at a pivotal moment for global market infrastructure:

-- More than 80 proprietary trading firms collapsed between 2024 and 2025 amid regulatory scrutiny, opaque execution models and frozen payout disputes, leaving a trust gap between traders and platforms.

-- Regulators worldwide are tightening expectations around algorithmic accountability - from U.S. enforcement actions against high?risk retail FX schemes to the EU AI Act (high?risk AI obligations effective in 2026) and MiFID II RTS 25/27/28 reforms on timestamp integrity and best execution.

-- Algorithmic trading is estimated to exceed USD 20 trillion in annual notional volume, yet much of its decision?making and execution remains difficult to audit in a rigorous, forensics?grade way.

VCP addresses this structural "crisis of trust" by providing an immutable, end?to?end audit trail from AI signal generation and risk checks through to final execution.

About the VeritasChain Protocol (VCP)

VCP v1.0 introduces a regulation?aligned audit architecture built on four foundational pillars.

1. Cryptographic Chain of Evidence

VCP creates an append?only audit trail in which any insertion, deletion or modification becomes cryptographically detectable.

This is achieved through modern cryptographic and industry standards, including:

-- Time?ordered identifiers (UUIDv7)

-- Canonical JSON data formats (RFC 8785)

-- Hash chains and Merkle trees (RFC 6962)

-- Digital signatures using Ed25519

Together, these mechanisms ensure that tampering cannot occur without immediate detection.

2. Full Lifecycle Logging

Standardized event types (including SIG, ORD, ACK, EXE, REJ, CXL) capture AI signals, governance metadata, risk checks, orders and executions in a unified model. This provides complete traceability from decision to outcome across heterogeneous trading systems.

3. Precision?Safe Data

All monetary and quantitative values are stored as strings rather than floating?point numbers, eliminating IEEE?754 precision errors and ensuring audit?grade numerical accuracy in legal and regulatory contexts.

4. Tiered Compliance Framework

VCP defines three implementation tiers to match different infrastructure profiles:

-- Platinum - For exchanges and HFT environments, with PTPv2 time synchronization, nanosecond timestamps and SBE (Simple Binary Encoding).

-- Gold - For institutional brokers and buy?side firms, using NTP, microsecond precision and JSON transport.

-- Silver - For retail and prop?style environments, using best?effort clock sync and non?invasive sidecar logging suitable for MT4/MT5, white?label platforms and other hosted systems.

Aligned With Global Regulations

VCP is designed as "compliance by design," aligning with major regulatory regimes rather than treating reporting as an afterthought.

EU AI Act (High?Risk AI)

The VCP?GOV module records model identifiers, hashes, decision factors, confidence scores and human approval metadata. This helps firms meet Articles 12 (record?keeping) and 13 (transparency) for high?risk AI systems by providing a machine?readable evidence trail for AI?driven trading and risk engines.

MiFID II (RTS 25/27/28)

An explicit ClockSyncStatus field, together with immutable execution, slippage and latency attributes in VCP?TRADE, supports clock?synchronization requirements under RTS 25 and provides cryptographic evidence for best?execution monitoring under RTS 27/28.

GDPR (Right to Erasure)

The VCP?PRIVACY extension supports crypto?shredding patterns, in which personal data is encrypted with per?subject keys and erasure requests are satisfied by key destruction. This preserves the integrity of the audit chain while making encrypted personal data irretrievable.

Who VCP Serves (Pain to Solution)

Exchanges & Dark Pools

-- Pain: Suspicion of internalization or front?running, opaque matching logic.

-- Solution: Cryptographic proof of price?time priority and matching behavior without exposing full order?book details.

FX/CFD Brokers and Market Makers

-- Pain: Slippage disputes, questions around best execution and execution venues.

-- Solution: Immutable evidence of execution prices, timestamps, slippage and latency, plus regulatory?grade reporting feeds.

Proprietary Trading Firms & Retail Infrastructure Providers

-- Pain: Payout controversies, shutdowns and an industry?wide collapse in trader trust.

-- Solution: Verification dashboards, VCP?authenticated audit trails and cryptographic evidence that orders are handled according to disclosed rules.

Regulators & Supervisors

-- Pain: Incomplete, inconsistent or tamperable logs that complicate investigations.

-- Solution: Real?time, machine?readable, cryptographically anchored audit streams that reduce the cost and time required for forensic reconstruction.

Milestones Announced Today

As part of the v1.0 launch, VSO is announcing the following resources and programs:

-- VCP v1.0 Specification released in English, Japanese and Chinese

-- VCP Explorer API v1.1, providing Merkle proof verification and digital audit certificates

-- VC?Certified program, opening registration for organizations seeking technical compliance certification

-- Three pilot integrations (including a brokerage and a prop trading firm, under NDA) adopting the Silver Tier implementation model

-- Open?source SDKs published on GitHub for multiple languages

Certification Scope Clarification (Important)

VC?Certified is a technical compliance certification for conformance with the VeritasChain Protocol specification only.

It does not constitute, and must not be interpreted as, an assessment or endorsement of any certified entity's:

-- Financial soundness

-- Regulatory status or licensing

-- Business practices or risk management

-- Investment quality or suitability

This clarification is consistent with VSO's strict non?endorsement and neutrality policy.

About VeritasChain Standards Organization (VSO)

The VeritasChain Standards Organization (VSO) is an independent, international standards body dedicated to establishing transparency, fairness and security in global algorithmic trading markets. Under the mission "Encoding Trust in the Algorithmic Age," VSO develops and maintains the VeritasChain Protocol (VCP) and aligns its work with ISO/TC 68 financial?services standards. Headquartered in Tokyo, VSO brings Japan's regulatory discipline to global market infrastructure.

-- Website: https://veritaschain.org

-- GitHub: https://github.com/veritaschain

-- Press Kit: https://veritaschain.org/press









View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251126171479/en/









Contact

Media ContactVeritasChain Standards Organization (VSO)Email: [email protected]







 2025 Business Wire, Inc.Disclaimer:This press release is not a document produced by AFP. AFP shall not bear responsibility for its content. In case you have any questions about this press release, please refer to the contact person/entity mentioned in the text of the press release.
Press Release from Business Wire: GE HealthCare



(AFP) Nov 28, 2025



CHICAGO, Nov 28, 2025 (BSW) - GE HealthCare today announced CE Mark for its next-generation Omni 128cm total body positron emission tomography / computed tomography (PET/CT) system,i a major milestone in its mission to advance precision care. Designed to advance cancer diagnosis, staging, therapeutic planning and treatment response monitoring, this innovative system represents a leap forward in molecular imaging capabilities and clinical efficiency.

As global cancer rates continue to rise - projected to increase 77 percent by 2050ii - the need for advanced imaging solutions has never been greater. The growing prevalence of cancer and emergence of investigational immunotherapies and targeted treatments have accelerated the demand for whole-body PET/CT imaging. GE HealthCare's new technology is built to meet this need, supporting theranostics and enabling clinicians to visualize, diagnose and monitor disease with impressive precision and speed.

"Our commitment to precision health is rooted in innovation that also aims to anticipate the future of care," says Jean-Luc Procaccini, President & CEO, Molecular Imaging and Computed Tomography, GE HealthCare. "With our Omni 128cm total body PET/CT system, we're not just advancing imaging - we're building a platform that empowers clinicians to deliver personalized, efficient and impactful care. The system also supports researchers in developing new clinical pathways. This milestone underscores our vision of enabling clinicians to achieve better outcomes through smarter, scalable solutions."

The new PET/CT system is designed to accommodate head to thigh imaging in a single bed position for a wide range of patients -compared to traditional systems that typically require five-to-six bed positions - helping accelerate scan time and streamline workflows with intuitive artificial intelligence solutions to promote impressive clinical and operational efficiency. The system also enables ultra-low dose scans, multi-organ dynamic imaging as well as imaging of slow-decaying and low-activity tracers with the goal of enhancing both clinical practice and research, while improving operational efficiency across healthcare systems.

"PET/CT has transformed our ability to visualize disease at the cellular level, offering insights that were once out of reach," shares Prof. Michael Hofman, nuclear medicine physician and head of the PET/CT program at Melbourne's Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre. "With the Omni 128cm total body PET/CT system, we're entering a new phase of possibility - one where faster scans and broader imaging coverage could redefine how we approach translational research and accelerate the development of targeted therapies."

The technology's ultra-high sensitivity and excellent spatial resolution are designed to support imaging across a wide range of clinical applications, including the monitoring of advanced prostate cancer treatment. Its non-invasive nature and ability to quantify biological processes at the cellular level make it a powerful tool that can help in early disease identification and treatment planning.

"This next-generation PET/CT technology is engineered to deliver exceptional sensitivity and resolution - capabilities that could reshape how we approach molecular imaging," adds Ken Herrmann, MD, director and chair, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Universitatsklinikum Essen. "Its speed and precision open the door to new possibilities, from helping reduce the need for anesthesia in pediatric scans to enabling multi organ dynamic imaging and early, confident diagnoses. It's a powerful tool for advancing both research and patient care."

In addition, the Omni 128cm PET/CT system supports advanced research applications - from developing new clinical pathways and novel PET tracers, to evaluating emerging theranostic agents - accelerating innovation from bench to bedside. When combined with GE HealthCare's MIM software solutions, researchers and clinicians gain access to advanced quantitation tools and streamlined workflows that are not only important for helping enhance diagnostic confidence and operational efficiency, but also enable precise, personalized care that can help improve patient outcomes.

Furthermore, GE HealthCare's Omni 128cm system leverages NVIDIA's full stack accelerated computing platform technology to optimize the reconstruction process and reduce the time it takes to generate images and provide clinicians with the data necessary for fast, timely diagnoses.

2025 marks 25 years of PET/CT innovation at GE HealthCare. From launching the industry's first commercially available PET/CT system, Discovery LS, to this introduction of a new total body PET/CT solution, GE HealthCare has consistently delivered innovative solutions to meet today and tomorrow's most pressing needs. The company continues to drive a connected healthcare transformation, delivering integrated solutions that empower clinicians and help improve patient outcomes worldwide.

For more information on GE HealthCare's molecular imaging portfolio, visit gehealthcare.com. Healthcare system representatives from CE Mark-observing countries are also invited to explore Omni 128cm in person at the Radiological Society of North America's (RSNA) Annual Meeting in Chicago, November 30-December 3.

About GE HealthCare Technologies Inc.

GE HealthCare is a trusted partner and leading global healthcare solutions provider, innovating medical technology, pharmaceutical diagnostics, and integrated, cloud-first AI-enabled solutions, services and data analytics. We aim to make hospitals and health systems more efficient, clinicians more effective, therapies more precise, and patients healthier and happier. Serving patients and providers for more than 125 years, GE HealthCare is advancing personalized, connected and compassionate care, while simplifying the patient's journey across care pathways. Together, our Imaging, Advanced Visualization Solutions, Patient Care Solutions and Pharmaceutical Diagnostics businesses help improve patient care from screening and diagnosis to therapy and monitoring. We are a $19.7 billion business with approximately 53,000 colleagues working to create a world where healthcare has no limits.

GE HealthCare is proud to be among 2025 Fortune World's Most Admired Companies?.

Follow us on LinkedIn, X, Facebook, Instagram, and Insights for the latest news, or visit our website https://www.gehealthcare.com for more information.

i Omni with 128cm AFOV is CE marked. Available for sale in EU member states countries. Not approved or cleared by the U.S. FDA. Not available for sale in the U.S. and other non-EU member states countries.

ii Global cancer burden growing, amidst mounting need for services." World Health Organization. Published 1 February 2024. Accessed 9 September 2024. https://www.who.int/news/item/01-02-2024-global-cancer-burden-growing--amidst-mounting-need-for-services







View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251128007885/en/









Contact

GE HealthCare Media Contact:Margaret SteinhafelM +1 608 381 8829[email protected]







 2025 Business Wire, Inc.Disclaimer:This press release is not a document produced by AFP. AFP shall not bear responsibility for its content. In case you have any questions about this press release, please refer to the contact person/entity mentioned in the text of the press release.
G.Bissau military appoints general as leader following coup



Bissau, Nov 27 (AFP) Nov 27, 2025



Guinea-Bissau's military appointed a general as the country's new leader on Thursday, a day after seizing power, arresting the president and derailing the announcement of election results.

Opposition candidate Fernando Dias da Costa told AFP he believed he had won Sunday's election and alleged outgoing President Umaro Sissoco Embalo -- who has also claimed victory -- had "organised" the power grab to prevent him taking office.

The coup struck just one day before authorities had been due to announce the provisional results of the presidential ballot and parliamentary polls.

General Horta N'Tam, chief of staff of the army, was designated the country's new leader for a period of one year.

He took the oath of office at the military's headquarters on Thursday, declaring: "I have just been sworn in to lead the High Command."

N'Tam is considered to have been close in recent years to Embalo, whom he now replaces.

Dias, who said he was safe and in hiding, was Embalo's main challenger after the main opposition candidate, Domingos Simoes Pereira, was barred by the supreme court from standing.

"I am the president (elect) of Guinea-Bissau," Dias told AFP by telephone, adding that he thought he might have garnered around 52 percent of the vote.

"There wasn't a coup," he alleged. It was "organised by Mr Embalo".

Analysts consulted by AFP also alleged the coup could ultimately benefit Embalo.

Dias said he had escaped from his campaign HQ on Wednesday when armed men came to arrest him.

Pereira, who backed Dias after being excluded from the electoral race, was himself arrested on Wednesday.



- 'Necessary measures' -



Bissau, capital of the west African country, was at a standstill on Thursday, AFP journalists observed.

Most shops and markets were closed and soldiers patrolled the streets.

The new military leaders banned "all media programming" and outlawed protests.

Surrounded by heavily armed soldiers, N'Tam told a press conference on Thursday the military had acted "to block operations that aimed to threaten our democracy".

N'Tam said evidence had been "sufficient to justify the operation" adding that "necessary measures are urgent and important and require everyone's participation".

General Denis N'Canha, head of the presidential military office, told journalists the army was assuming control "until further notice" after a plan involving "drug lords" had been uncovered, including "the introduction of weapons into the country to alter the constitutional order".

Land, air and sea borders -- which were all sealed off on Wednesday -- were reportedly reopened, however.

A nationwide curfew was lifted and the High Command ordered the "immediate reopening" of markets, schools and private institutions.



- 'Grave violation' -



Members of Guinea-Bissau's diaspora and researchers told AFP they queried the true motives behind the power grab, which they alleged could ultimately benefit Embalo.

Researchers interviewed by AFP said unverified preliminary results circulating before the coup showed opposition candidate Dias as the winner of the election.

"I doubt the veracity of the allegations put forward by the High Military Command regarding the restoration of order," one West African researcher told AFP on Thursday on condition of anonymity.

"This is a coup aimed at preventing the opposition candidate, Fernando Dias, from seizing power," he said.

"This is the ideal scenario for Mr Embalo, who could, following negotiations, be released and potentially reposition himself for the next elections."

The African Union on Thursday condemned the coup and demanded Embalo's immediate and unconditional release, while the chair of West African regional bloc ECOWAS called the affair a "grave violation of Guinea-Bissau's constitutional order".

The European Union urged "a swift return to the constitutional order and the resumption of the electoral process", adding: "The results of the presidential and legislative elections should be respected by all parties."

ECOWAS chair Julius Maada Bio, the president of Sierra Leone, said he was consulting fellow heads of state and government to discuss the "current political situation".

Sandwiched between Guinea and Senegal, Guinea-Bissau has experienced four putsches since independence from Portugal in 1974, as well as multiple attempted coups. Its election results are often contested.

West Africa has seen several coups in recent years, with Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger and Guinea all seeing their governments toppled.

aye-sjd-lp-bfm/gil/rlp
Bitterness, disappointment grip Bissau-Guineans after coup



Bissau, Nov 27 (AFP) Nov 27, 2025



Mohamed Sylla and his friends fled as fast as they could when gunshots rang out near Guinea Bissau's presidential palace Wednesday, marking yet another coup in the restive West African country.

As always, the five friends had arrived at the main marketplace of Guinea-Bissau's capital early that morning, setting up stalls to sell soap, body lotion and food.

They had expected a normal day, but heavy gunfire suddenly erupted near the presidential palace in the city centre, driving shockwaves of fear and panic.

Sylla, 38, said they heard the first shots at around 1:00 pm (1300 GMT).

"What followed was general panic in the market. Everyone was running in all directions. Some people were even injured," the merchant told AFP, his face hard, as his friends nodded in agreement.

A few hours later, the army announced that it had ousted President Umaro Sissoco Embalo and seized power -- one day before provisional results of the November 23 presidential election were to be published.

Embalo, elected in 2020 and running for a second five-year term, has been detained.

The military junta on Thursday declared General Horta N'Tam, chief of staff of the army, the country's new leader for a period of one year.



- 'Used to these situations' -



Mohamed said he knew instantly that another coup was occurring when he heard the gunfire.

"We know how things work in this country. We're used to these situations," he told AFP.

Sandwiched between Guinea and Senegal, Guinea-Bissau has experienced four coups since independence from Portugal in 1974, as well as multiple attempted coups. Its election results are often contested.

Bissau was like a ghost town on Thursday, with most shops and businesses shuttered, public transport out of action and the streets semi-deserted.

"The country is paralysed. There isn't a single customer in the market," one shopkeeper said.

"We live day to day. We don't even have enough to eat," added another, both speaking on condition of anonymity for their safety.

Sitting listlessly across the road from the market, Mohamed and his companions all denounced the coup.

"Every time we feel hopeful about the country, a crisis occurs. This can't go on," soap seller Mamadou Woury Diallo said bitterly.

He said he had walked several kilometres to reach the market in hope of earning enough money to feed his family.

"How am I supposed to manage now? I don't have a cent, and I'll have to walk home."



- Disappointment -



Suncar Gassama lives in Portugal and visited Bissau for leisure. She never suspected she would witness the crisis unfolding.

"I was very happy to see Bissau-Guineans vote. But when I heard the gunfire, I became very sad to see my country, which I left 30 years ago, plunged back into this situation," the woman in her forties told AFP.

Gassama hopes Guinea-Bissau will move past violence and embrace democracy.

"Guinea-Bissau is a very rich country with all the conditions in place for a good life. I don't understand why Bissau-Guineans always have violence on their minds and are shooting everywhere," she said.

On Thursday, the junta ordered deserted markets and shopping centres to reopen.
G.Bissau president leaves country after coup: Senegal



Bissau, Nov 27 (AFP) Nov 27, 2025



Guinea-Bissau's President Umaro Sissoco Embalo is in Senegal after being detained during a military coup in his country, the government in Dakar said Thursday, as a lead opponent accused him of arranging the uprising.

The military in volatile Guinea-Bissau earlier on Thursday appointed a general as the country's new leader, a day after seizing power and derailing the announcement of election results.

Opposition candidate Fernando Dias da Costa told AFP he believed he had won Sunday's election and alleged Embalo -- who has also claimed victory -- had "organised" the power grab to prevent him taking office.

Embalo arrived "safe and sound" in Senegal in a military plane chartered by its government, the country's foreign ministry said in a statement.

The coup struck just one day before authorities had been due to announce the provisional results of the presidential ballot and parliamentary polls.

General Horta N'Tam, chief of staff of the army, was designated the country's new leader for a period of one year.

He took the oath of office at the military's headquarters on Thursday, declaring: "I have just been sworn in to lead the High Command."



- Opposition candidate escapes -



N'Tam is considered to have been close in recent years to Embalo, whom he has now replaced.

Dias, who said he was safe and in hiding, was Embalo's main challenger after the main opposition candidate, Domingos Simoes Pereira, was barred by the supreme court from standing.

"I am the president (elect) of Guinea-Bissau," Dias told AFP by telephone, adding that he thought he might have garnered around 52 percent of the vote.

"There wasn't a coup," he alleged. It was "organised by Mr Embalo".

Dias said he had escaped from his campaign HQ on Wednesday when armed men came to arrest him.

Pereira, who backed Dias after being excluded from the electoral race, was himself arrested on Wednesday.

The military appointed General Tomas Djassi, formerly the personal chief of staff to President Embalo, as chief of staff of the armed forces on Thursday.



- 'Necessary measures' -



Bissau, capital of the west African country, was at a standstill on Thursday, AFP journalists observed.

Most shops and markets were closed and soldiers patrolled the streets.

The new military leaders banned "all media programming" and outlawed protests.

Surrounded by heavily armed soldiers, N'Tam told a press conference on Thursday the military had acted "to block operations that aimed to threaten our democracy".

He said evidence had been "sufficient to justify the operation", adding that "necessary measures are urgent and important and require everyone's participation".

General Denis N'Canha, head of the presidential military office, told journalists the army was assuming control "until further notice" after a plan involving "drug lords" had been uncovered, including "the introduction of weapons into the country to alter the constitutional order".

Land, air and sea borders -- which were all sealed off on Wednesday -- were reportedly reopened, however.

A nationwide curfew was lifted and the High Command ordered the "immediate reopening" of markets, schools and private institutions.



- 'Grave violation' -



Members of Guinea-Bissau's diaspora and researchers told AFP they queried the true motives behind the power grab, which they alleged could ultimately benefit Embalo.

Researchers interviewed by AFP said unverified preliminary results circulating before the coup showed opposition candidate Dias as the election winner.

"This is a coup aimed at preventing the opposition candidate, Fernando Dias, from seizing power," one West African researcher told AFP on Thursday on condition of anonymity.

"This is the ideal scenario for Mr Embalo, who could, following negotiations, be released and potentially reposition himself for the next elections."

The African Union on Thursday condemned the coup and demanded Embalo's immediate and unconditional release, while the chair of West African regional bloc ECOWAS, Julius Maada Bio, called the affair a "grave violation of Guinea-Bissau's constitutional order".

The European Union urged "a swift return to the constitutional order and the resumption of the electoral process".

Sandwiched between Guinea and Senegal, Guinea-Bissau has experienced four coups since independence from Portugal in 1974, as well as multiple attempted coups. Its election results are often contested.

"Every time we feel hopeful about the country, a crisis occurs," said Mamadou Woury Diallo, a soap seller struggling to earn his living at a market in Bissau. "This can't go on."
Venezuela foreign airline ban slammed as 'disproportionate'



Caracas, Nov 27 (AFP) Nov 27, 2025



Venezuela's decision to ban foreign airlines that stopped flying to the Caribbean country over concerns about US military activity was branded "disproportionate" on Thursday as thousands of passengers scrambled to save their travel plans.

Venezuela's aviation authority said Wednesday that it had banned six airlines -- Spain's Iberia, Portugal's TAP, Colombia's Avianca, Chile and Brazil's LATAM, Brazil's GOL and Turkish Airlines -- for "joining the actions of state terrorism promoted by the United States government."

The airlines, which account for much of the air travel in South America as well as air links to Europe, suspended flights to Venezuela last week following safety warnings from Washington, which has deployed warships in waters off Venezuela for what it calls an anti-narcotics operation.

The suspension infuriated Caracas, which issued the carriers with a 48-hour ultimatum on Monday to resume flights or be banned from Venezuela, which they ignored.

Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel accused Venezuela on Thursday of a "disproportionate" reaction.

Portugal has "no intention of canceling our routes to Venezuela, and that, obviously, we only did so for security reasons," he said.

A source from Iberia told AFP that the company hoped to resume flights to Venezuela "as soon as possible, as soon as full security conditions are met."

It added that the Spanish airline "cannot operate in areas where there is a high security risk" and added that Spain's aviation authority had recommended not flying at this time to Venezuela.

The flight suspension has so far affected more than 8,000 passengers on at least 40 different flights, according to the Venezuelan Association of Travel and Tourism Agencies (AVAVIT).

A small number of Venezuelan companies, including Avior and Laser, continue to offer a limited number of flights to Spain and regional cities.



- 'Worsening security' -



The US Federal Aviation Administration last week urged civilian aircraft operating in Venezuelan airspace to "exercise caution" due to the "worsening security situation and heightened military activity in or around Venezuela."

President Donald Trump has deployed the world's biggest aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, and 10 other ships to the Caribbean.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and his wife spent the Thanksgiving holiday on Thursday with troops aboard the aircraft carrier.

The Pentagon released a video showing him serving up turkey dinners in the mess and expressing gratitude to the troops for "interdicting cartels" and "defending the American people."

Washington has also carried out multiple shows of aerial force in the region, with B-52 and B-1B bombers flying near Venezuela's coast.

Venezuela's leftist President Nicolas Maduro, whose re-election last year was widely rejected by the international community as fraudulent, believes the operation is secretly aimed at overthrowing him.

He has reacted defiantly, staging military exercises and mass rallies aimed at projecting strength and popular support.

"Keep your planes, and we will keep our dignity," Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello said.

Apart from the naval build-up, the United States has carried out strikes on over 20 alleged drug boats in the region, killing dozens.

Washington has not yet provided any evidence that the boats were smuggling narcotics or posed a threat to the United States.

This week, the Trump administration continued to pile pressure on Venezuela, despite the US president saying he was open to dialogue with Maduro.

On Monday, Washington designated an alleged Venezuelan drug cartel a foreign terrorist organization.

And on Wednesday, the Dominican Republic, a US ally in the Caribbean, told Hegseth that Washington could use an air base and an airport for its counter-narcotics operations.

bc/jt/cb/bjt

AVIANCA TACA HOLDING

LATAM AIRLINES GROUP

GOL LINHAS AERAS INTELIGENTES
Trump says 'soon' to begin stopping Venezuela drug trafficking 'by land'



Palm Beach, United States, Nov 28 (AFP) Nov 28, 2025



US President Donald Trump said Thursday that efforts to halt Venezuelan drug trafficking "by land" would begin "very soon," further ratcheting up tensions with Caracas, which claims the anti-drug campaign aims at regime change.

Trump has sent a large deployment of US military to the region, including an aircraft carrier group, with a stated mission of tackling transnational crime and drug trafficking.

But Caracas claims it is really a ploy to overthrow leftist president Nicolas Maduro, whom the United States considers an illegitimate leader and a drug lord -- a charge that he denies.

"We've almost stopped -- it's about 85 percent stopped by sea," Trump said in a Thanksgiving video call with US troops from his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida.

"And we'll be starting to stop them by land also. The land is easier, but that's going to start very soon," he said.

Several of the US military groups that Trump addressed were actively participating in his anti-drug operation, dubbed "Southern Spear."

As part of the operation, the US military has so far only announced the targeting of alleged drug traffickers in international waters, killing at least 83 people, according to an AFP tally of publicly released figures.

The United States has released no details to back up its claims that the people targeted in both the Caribbean and eastern Pacific in the more than 20 strikes were actually traffickers.
Photo: https://mcsc.gov.ua/news/tetyana-berezhna-obgovoryla-z-predstavnykamy-arte-france-zapusk-ukrayinomovnoyi-versiyi-platformy/

Deputy Prime Minister for Humanitarian Policy - Minister of Culture of Ukraine Tetiana Berezhna and Deputy Head of the Presidential Office Olena Kovalska discussed with representatives of ARTE France the mechanisms for accelerating the launch of the Ukrainian-language version of the ARTE channel and further ways to deepen cooperation.

The ministry said in a statement following a meeting with ARTE France editorial director Boris Razon and director of the Society/Culture department Fabrice Puchault that "Tetiana Berezhna emphasized that the emergence of ARTE in Ukrainian will become an important tool of cultural diplomacy and will provide access to high-quality European information and cultural content for millions of Ukrainians abroad."

ARTE France representatives confirmed their readiness to begin implementing the Ukrainian-language version of the platform and reported that they already have a significant amount of Ukrainian content. They also said that they plan to expand their cooperation with the Ukrainian audiovisual industry.

Another topic discussed at the meeting was the prospects for producing local content, including programs featuring Ukrainian presenters and developing digital formats.

ARTE France is part of the Franco-German media platform ARTE, which specializes in documentaries and programs that are cultural, educational, and social. Currently broadcasting in seven languages  English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Polish, and Romanian  ARTE is actively expanding its presence in European countries. In spring 2024, ARTE launched GenerationUkraine, a large-scale documentary film support project in Ukraine. The project's goal is to create twelve documentary films by Ukrainian directors that depict reality after the start of the full-scale invasion. Films participating in the project include: Day by Day, Peaceful People, Cuba and Alaska, and others.
Trump says Venezuela anti-drug operations 'by land' to begin 'soon'



Palm Beach, United States, Nov 28 (AFP) Nov 28, 2025



US President Donald Trump said Thursday that efforts to halt Venezuelan drug trafficking "by land" would begin "very soon," further ratcheting up tensions with Caracas, which claims the anti-drug campaign aims at regime change.

Trump made the remarks while video conferencing with deployed US troops to mark the Thanksgiving holiday.

Several of the US military groups that Trump addressed were actively participating in his anti-drug operation, dubbed "Southern Spear," which has seen a large military buildup in the Caribbean.

Addressing a Texas-based Air Force bombing unit, Trump, reading from prepared remarks, said: "In recent weeks, you've been working to deter Venezuelan drug traffickers, of which there are many."

It was not immediately clear what actions Trump was specifically referencing.

The US military has carried out a series of airstrikes against boats it claims were trafficking drugs in international waters, without offering evidence to back up its claims.

Those strikes in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific have killed at least 83 people, according to an AFP tally of publicly released figures.

Washington has also carried out multiple shows of aerial force in the region in recent weeks, with B-52 and B-1B bombers flying near Venezuela's coast.

Elaborating on US efforts to halt drug trafficking, Trump said: "We've almost stopped -- it's about 85 percent stopped by sea."

"You probably noticed that people aren't wanting to be delivering by sea, and we'll be starting to stop them by land," he said.

"Also the land is easier, but that's going to start very soon," he added.



- Ratcheting pressure -



The remarks come as Trump's administration continues to pile pressure on Venezuela, despite the US president saying in recent days that he was open to dialogue with Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro.

With an aircraft carrier group and numerous other assets in the Caribbean, Washington on Monday designated an alleged Venezuelan drug cartel a foreign terrorist organization, while top US military officials also traveled to the region this week.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and his wife spent the Thanksgiving holiday on Thursday with troops aboard the aircraft carrier.

The Pentagon released a video showing him serving up turkey dinners in the mess and expressing gratitude to the troops for "interdicting cartels" and "defending the American people."

A day earlier, the Dominican Republic, a US ally in the Caribbean, told Hegseth that Washington could use an air base and an airport for its counter-narcotics operations.



- Air disruptions -



Leftist Maduro, whose re-election last year was widely rejected by the international community as fraudulent, believes the operation is secretly aimed at overthrowing him.

He has reacted defiantly, staging military exercises and mass rallies aimed at projecting strength and popular support.

The tensions have now led to major disruptions in air travel to and from Venezuela.

Last week, six airlines that account for much of the air travel in South America suspended flights to Venezuela following safety warnings from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The FAA cited the "worsening security situation and heightened military activity in or around Venezuela."

In response, Venezuela's aviation authority said Wednesday that it had banned the airlines -- Spain's Iberia, Portugal's TAP, Colombia's Avianca, Chile and Brazil's LATAM, Brazil's GOL and Turkish Airlines -- for "joining the actions of state terrorism promoted by the United States government."

Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel accused Venezuela of a "disproportionate" reaction.

Portugal has "no intention of canceling our routes to Venezuela, and that, obviously, we only did so for security reasons," he said.

A source from Iberia told AFP that the company hoped to resume flights to Venezuela "as soon as possible, as soon as full security conditions are met."

It added that the Spanish airline "cannot operate in areas where there is a high security risk" and added that Spain's aviation authority had recommended not flying at this time to Venezuela.

The flight suspension has so far affected more than 8,000 passengers on at least 40 different flights, according to the Venezuelan Association of Travel and Tourism Agencies.

A small number of Venezuelan companies, including Avior and Laser, continue to offer a limited number of flights to Spain and regional cities.

bc/jt/cb/des/ksb

AVIANCA TACA HOLDING

LATAM AIRLINES GROUP

GOL LINHAS AERAS INTELIGENTES
President leaves Guinea-Bissau as general named leader after coup



Bissau, Nov 28 (AFP) Nov 28, 2025



Guinea-Bissau's President Umaro Sissoco Embalo has left the country for Senegal after being detained during a military coup, the government in Dakar said Thursday, as a lead opponent accused him of arranging the uprising.

The military in volatile Guinea-Bissau earlier appointed a general as the country's new leader, a day after seizing power and derailing the announcement of election results.

Opposition candidate Fernando Dias da Costa told AFP he believed he had won Sunday's election and alleged Embalo -- who has also claimed victory -- had "organised" the power grab to prevent him taking office.

Sandwiched between Guinea and Senegal, Guinea-Bissau has experienced four coups since independence from Portugal in 1974, as well as multiple attempted coups. Its election results are often contested.

Embalo arrived in Senegal on a military plane chartered by its government, the country's foreign ministry said in a statement.

The coup unfolded a day before authorities were due to announce the provisional results of the presidential ballot and parliamentary polls.

General Horta N'Tam, chief of staff of the army, was designated the new leader for a period of one year.

"I have just been sworn in to lead the High Command," he declared, taking the oath of office at the military's headquarters on Thursday.



- Opposition candidate escapes -



N'Tam is considered to have been close in recent years to Embalo.

Dias, who said he was safe and in hiding, was Embalo's main challenger after leading opposition candidate Domingos Simoes Pereira was barred by the supreme court from standing.

"I am the president (elect) of Guinea-Bissau," Dias told AFP by telephone, adding that he thought he might have garnered around 52 percent of the vote.

"There wasn't a coup," he alleged. It was "organised by Mr Embalo".

Dias said he had escaped from his campaign HQ on Wednesday when armed men came to arrest him.

Pereira, who backed Dias after his exclusion from the race, was himself arrested on Wednesday.

The military has appointed General Tomas Djassi, formerly the personal chief of staff to Embalo, as chief of staff of the armed forces.



- 'Necessary measures' -



Bissau, the capital of the west African country, was at a standstill on Thursday, AFP journalists saw.

Most shops and markets were closed and soldiers patrolled the streets.

The new military leaders banned "all media programming" and outlawed protests.

Surrounded by heavily armed soldiers, N'Tam told a press conference on Thursday the military had acted "to block operations that aimed to threaten our democracy".

He said evidence had been "sufficient to justify the operation", adding that "necessary measures are urgent and important and require everyone's participation".

General Denis N'Canha, head of the presidential military office, told journalists the army was assuming control "until further notice" after a plan involving "drug lords" had been uncovered, including "the introduction of weapons into the country to alter the constitutional order".

Land, air and sea borders -- which were all sealed off on Wednesday -- were reportedly reopened, however.

A nationwide curfew was lifted and the High Command ordered the "immediate reopening" of markets, schools and private institutions.



- 'Can't go on' -



Members of Guinea-Bissau's diaspora and researchers told AFP they queried the true motives behind the power grab, which they alleged could ultimately benefit Embalo.

Researchers interviewed by AFP said unverified preliminary results circulating before the coup showed opposition candidate Dias as the election winner.

"This is a coup aimed at preventing the opposition candidate, Fernando Dias, from seizing power," one west African researcher told AFP on condition of anonymity.

"This is the ideal scenario for Mr Embalo, who could, following negotiations, be released and potentially reposition himself for the next elections."

West African regional bloc, ECOWAS, has suspended Guinea-Bissau from its decision-making bodies until constitutional order is restored, it said after a virtual meeting of heads of state and government.

The African Union has condemned the coup, while the European Union urged "a swift return to the constitutional order and the resumption of the electoral process".

"Every time we feel hopeful about the country, a crisis occurs," said Mamadou Woury Diallo, a soap seller struggling to earn his living at a market in Bissau. "This can't go on."
New legal armour provides unprecedented power for Pakistan's military



Islamabad, Pakistan, Nov 28 (AFP) Nov 28, 2025



Sweeping legal reforms and regional conflict have consolidated the Pakistani military's grip on power in the past year, diluting the role of the civilian government while offering an unprecedented legal shield to the army chief, experts say.

Widely seen as Pakistan's most powerful institution, the military has governed the country for nearly half its existence via a series of coups since independence in 1947.

One of those military rulers, General Pervez Musharraf, was found guilty of treason while living in exile after an almost decade-long rule, which began in a 1999 coup.

But experts say a repeat of that scenario is increasingly unlikely.

Constitutional changes rushed through parliament in November gave sweeping new powers to top officials including the current army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, already considered the most powerful man in the country.

Munir's Field Marshal rank, granted after the deadly conflict in May with arch-rival India, now also includes lifelong immunity from legal prosecution.

"Lifelong immunity means that tomorrow, if Asim Munir imposes a martial law, he will never be tried for committing an act of treason," said defence analyst Ayesha Siddiqa.

"So theoretically, a coup is possible," she told AFP.

Islamabad-based legal expert Osama Malik believes the constitutional amendment means "this time is different".

"The constitution itself is being disfigured during a civilian government, and not when a martial law is imposed," he told AFP.

After the May conflict with India -- which Munir claims to have won -- and amid escalating clashes with neigbouring Afghanistan, some of the resentment expressed by Pakistanis after last year's heated election brought a surge of anti-military rhetoric has also eased.

Despite some opposition parties denouncing Munir's new role and legal immunity, few people dared to protest openly and there was only a short flash of social media outrage.

The military has not officially commented on the constitutional amendments, and neither it nor the government responded to requests for comment.



- 'Hybrid' model -



No prime minister has ever completed a full five-year term in Pakistan's history, and civilian governments have acknowledged the military's role in state affairs.

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has called the situation a "hybrid" model and signalled key decisions are influenced by both civilian and military leaders.

"It is by consensus, whatever is taking place," he told digital media outlet Zeteo in September, though he denied that the army chief held more authority than elected ministers.

Even during periods of civilian rule, most Pakistanis consider the army chief the country's real kingmaker -- meaning Munir's new powers are freighted with huge political significance as the country navigates a sensitive geopolitical period following armed conflict with both its neighbours.

Munir previously led Pakistan's powerful Inter-Services Intelligence agency.

Yet he was ousted from that post in 2019 after just eight months under previous prime minister Imran Khan, for reasons that have never been made public.

Khan himself was later pushed out by a no-confidence vote in the country's legislature in 2022, which analysts say was the result of falling out with the army. His successor, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif elevated Munir to army chief.

The military has long denied the involvement in elections or political affairs.

Khan is now languishing in jail on corruption charges he denies, with his many supporters accusing the army of fostering his rival coalition government while pushing through two constitutional amendments in a year to tighten its oversight of courts and judges.

Resentment among Khan supporters boiled over into mass nationwide protests in 2023 ahead of elections he ultimately lost, and a march on the capital last year that turned into a violent standoff with authorities.

"Everything that is being done in Pakistan, let it be constitutional amendments or new parallel forces, is out of fear of Imran Khan and his popularity," said Zulfikar Bukhari, spokesperson for Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party.



- 'Favourite field marshal' -



The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) said the constitutional change "further weakens essential checks and balances at a time when public trust in state institutions is fragile".

The changes elevate Munir to 'Chief of Defence Forces', expanding his oversight to include the air force and the navy.

Initially set to retire in 2027, Munir can now also remain in office until 2030, giving him "an opportunity to oversee the next elections", Siddiqa said.

Munir has also bolstered his international standing, recently making two official visits to the United States, where President Donald Trump called him "his favourite field marshal".

In photos released by the White House, Munir stands by Sharif and Trump in a suit and tie, raising eyebrows at home given army chiefs have in the past worn uniform during official visits.
Romania defence minister says resigning over 'mistake' in his CV



Bucharest, Nov 28 (AFP) Nov 28, 2025



Romania's defence minister resigned on Friday after saying he made a "mistake" on his CV about his university education, as controversy swirled over alleged lies on his resume.

Ionut Mosteanu -- who has admitted to writing on his CV that he graduated from a university he never attended -- said he did not want the row "to distract" the NATO member at a time when it and Europe are "under attack from Russia".

Romania has repeatedly seen drone fragments fall on its soil since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, and reported a number of drone incursions.

On Tuesday, a drone crashed in eastern Romania, which borders Ukraine.

Romania has also accused Moscow of "hybrid attacks", including meddling in presidential elections last year that were subsequently annulled.

"Today, I resigned from my position as minister of national defence," Mosteanu said in a Facebook post, adding he wanted the country to be focused on its "difficult mission".

"Romania and Europe are under attack from Russia. Our national security must be defended at all costs," he added.

Mosteanu had come under pressure after a media investigation published on Thursday revealed that he wrote in a CV that he graduated from a university which he did not actually attend.

That same day he apologised for what he called "a mistake".

"In a CV I quickly put together in 2016 using a template I found online, there is a mistake that I admit embarrasses me. I didn't pay much attention to these details at the time," he said on Facebook.

Mosteanu was appointed defence minister in June of this year, when a new pro-European government was formed after months of political turmoil.

Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan said in a press release that he would propose economy and tourism minister Radu Miruta take over the defence portfolio in the interim.
Rubio expected to skip NATO talks next week: sources



Washington, Nov 28 (AFP) Nov 28, 2025



US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will skip next week's meeting of NATO foreign ministers despite allies' concerns about a US plan for Ukraine, sources familiar with the issue said.

It is highly unusual for the top diplomat of the United States, the linchpin of the transatlantic alliance, to skip the annual December meeting -- and even more striking as the agenda is set to be dominated by discussions about the intensive US diplomacy on the war in Ukraine.

People familiar with Rubio's travel plans, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that at this point he was not planning to attend the meeting in Brussels next Wednesday and Thursday and would instead send his deputy, Christopher Landau.

Also next week, as Rubio stays away from the NATO talks, President Donald Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff is expected in Moscow to discuss Ukraine diplomacy.

Rubio traveled last weekend to Switzerland for talks with Ukraine on a plan to end the war that has been criticized by European allies as looking like a wishlist for Moscow, which invaded Ukraine in February 2022.

Rubio also met European national security advisors in Geneva.

A senior State Department official insisted that the Trump administration has already made progress in NATO by pressing allies to step up defense spending.

"Secretary Rubio has already attended dozens of meetings with NATO allies and it would be completely impractical to expect him at every meeting," the official said on condition of anonymity.

"The historic foreign policy achievements in just 10 months of this administration speak for themselves," the official said.

Washington's original plan -- drafted without input from Ukraine's European allies -- would have seen Kyiv withdraw from its eastern Donetsk region and the United States de facto recognize the Donetsk, Crimea and Lugansk regions as Russian.

Washington pared back the original plan following criticism from Kyiv and Europe, but the current contents remain unclear.

Throwing additional uncerainty on the diplomacy, Ukraine's top negotiator Andriy Yermak was removed Friday by President Volodymyr Zelensky as his aide came under a corruption probe.
Allow Google Search

To use the search feature, we need your consent to load Google Custom Search, which may use cookies or similar technologies. Please click 'Allow and Continue' below to enable search. See our privacy policy for more information.

Allow and Continue
I have read your letter to me, I note you want to take more steps to make sure you do not go down the path you did in 2024 again  you have said you have benefitted from counselling, the judge said.
It might be a compromise. It might even be necessary to get the Bill passed (as soon as possible). But it most definitely is a manifesto breach, the MP for Ellesmere Port and Bromborough said.
That it has taken eight years and counting to bring Jagtar home is shameful, and while the last government must share the blame, the current Government has also failed for more than a year: if they dont act soon this failure could end in catastrophe.
A panel discussion after the screening raised the problems of rape myths  such as the idea that sexual assault victims cannot have suffered abuse more than once  still being perpetuated in the courts, and highlighted a campaign to stop victims being criticised in court for having previously made a sexual offence allegation which did not lead to a criminal charge.
Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever said that the European Union's plan to use frozen Russian state assets to finance Ukraine could jeopardize the chances of concluding a potential peace agreement, Reuters reports.

"Hastily moving forward on the proposed reparations loan scheme would have, as collateral damage, that we as EU are effectively preventing reaching an eventual peace deal," De Wever said in a letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, seen by Reuters.

Under a plan put forward by von der Leyen, the frozen Russian central bank assets in Europe would be lent to Ukraine for Kyiv to use for defence and regular budget needs.

Belgiums support for the plan is crucial because the EU hopes to use assets held by the Belgian financial institution Euroclear.

At a summit last month, EU leaders attempted to reach an agreement on using EUR 140 billion of frozen Russian sovereign assets in Europe to provide loans to Kyiv. However, they failed to secure Belgian support.

The letter comes as the European Commission, the EUs executive arm, prepares to address Belgiums concerns in draft legislative proposals on the use of frozen assets. EU officials said these proposals could be presented on Friday or over the weekend.

De Wever said Belgium had not yet seen "any proposed legal language by the Commission".

The European Commission did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The Commission hopes the EU can come to an agreement on the issue at the next summit of the bloc's leaders, which takes place on December 18-19.

Earlier this month, von der Leyen proposed alternative financing options for Ukraine, whose financing gap is set to widen significantly next year.

However, she remains focused on the frozen assets plan she first presented in September, given that many EU member states oppose increasing debt.
She got on one knee and I said go on then, put the ring on, gave her a hug and all that it was cute but unfortunately I never saw her again.
Theresa Hebert poses for a portrait at her home in Groves on Nov. 1, 2025. Danielle Villasana /For the Texas Tribune

Of all the topics 55-year-old Groves resident Theresa Hebert has discussed on her TikTok account @foolish_mortal999 over the past five years, nothing has brought in new viewers like her recent anxiety over expected Affordable Care Act health insurance price hikes. Not even her battle with breast cancer.

With the current government shutdown and the threat of not extending the subsidies for the Affordable Care Act, Im a bit worried, she told viewers last month.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

Her plan costs $581 a month and its helped cover four surgeries, 16 rounds of chemotherapy and 30 days of radiation this past year. Her plan is made somewhat affordable after receiving $250 a month in subsidies enacted under the Biden administration.

But those subsidies that have helped bring down the cost of monthly premiums for ACA plans, also called enhanced premium tax credits, are set to expire at the end of the year. Starting next year, Heberts monthly premium will rise 88% to $1,091, just slightly less than her $1,400 monthly mortgage.

Theresa Heberts results after updating her information on the ACA Marketplace website at her home in Groves on Nov. 1, 2025. Danielle Villasana /For the Texas Tribune

Its not ideal, said Hebert, whose job as a property manager doesnt offer health benefits.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

Statesman Logo Want more Statesman? Make us a Preferred Source on Google to see more of us when you search. Add Preferred Source

Texans over the age of 45 are among those statewide who are seeing the highest rise in their premiums this open enrollment, which closes Jan. 15, according to health policy experts.

Higher risk, higher cost

More than one-fourth of the states 4 million ACA enrollees are between the ages of 45 and 64.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

For a 60-year-old Texas couple with a total income of $85,000, the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities estimates enhanced tax credits would have capped their annual premium for a silver plan at $7,225, but that would jump to $33,689 if the enhanced subsidies expire.

On Oct. 1, the federal government shut down after Republicans and Democrats failed to pass a bill funding government services from that day forward. Although Republicans hold a majority of seats in both chambers of Congress, they were short the votes in the Senate needed to pass the spending bill. For more than a month, Democrats would not sign on unless the tax credits were extended. But on Nov. 10, the Senate passed a spending plan, 60-40, without the ACA tax credits extension, as the Democrats had once demanded.

Without those subsidies, many ACA plan consumers are feeling forced to either find a way to pay for their more expensive existing plans, sign up for a less expensive plan with higher deductibles or forgo insurance entirely and hope that they remain in good health. On average, Texas insurers have increased ACA premiums by 35%, but for older ACA enrollees who already pay more, the hikes are even higher.

So price impacts tend to hit older folks the hardest, said Laura Dague, who is the James M. Griffin professor of health policy at Texas A&M University.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

The reason is simply the higher amount of health problems older individuals experience.

In general, theyre higher risk, Dague said. That means that insurance companies have to charge them more.

Theresa Heberts coffee cup, gifted to her by her good friend and roommate while undergoing cancer treatment, sits on a table in their living room. Danielle Villasana /For the Texas Tribune

Older enrollees, especially those in their 50s and early 60s have been stunned to see whopping hikes in their premiums.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

As shes had to repeatedly explain to younger TikTok viewers who tell her to just go on Medicare, Herbert has 10 more years before she would be eligible for the cheaper, government-sponsored plan for those Americans who are 65 and older.

For now, shes struggling with the news as she weighs her options.

There are cheaper ACA plans that still cost around $700 a month, but they could provide less coverage and force her to pay more out of pocket before the plan starts to cover more services. If she changes plans, she may not keep her current doctors. When asked what she intends to do before open enrollment ends Jan. 15, all Hebert can say is: I have no idea. I have no clue.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

For the most part, older Texans are willing to pay the higher ACA prices because the only other option is to be uninsured. The tough part for Hebert and Texans like her is now coming up with so much more money to keep their coverage going. If they go with a cheaper plan, they worry if they will have vital prescriptions covered or whether theyll be forced to restart their health care with new providers or those who are located farther away.

From $0 to $870 a month

This year, subsidies reduced the monthly price of G.W. Babbs plan from $860 to zero. Next year, the 63-year-old Austin graphic designers insurance company will raise its rate to $1,270, and he will lose about half of the subsidies he received. As a result, hell go from paying nothing to paying $870 a month for health coverage.

To make his situation worse, Babbs doctor of the past 20 years is not in the network of this new plan.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

So Babb said he will have to pay $150 per visit out of pocket to continue seeing this provider on top of the $870 monthly premium.

Going from paying nothing to paying nearly $900 a month is insane, Babb said. Even without all the subsidies, it's still $400 a month more than what I'm paying right now.

Hebert and Babb were hoping the tax credits would be extended as part of the federal shutdown negotiations.

As their dog Bentley looks on, Theresa Hebert, left, and her good friend and roommate, April Dattalo print out Heberts results after updating her information on the Marketplace website. Danielle Villasana /For the Texas Tribune

Hebert said news that SNAP federal food assistance was first on hold, then delayed for November because of the federal shutdown weighed on her.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

I don't want people to go hungry. But I also, I need for, I really need for the subsidies to be extended, she said.

Talking health care boosts audience

Shes stunned by how little some of her younger TikTok audience and the more privileged older ones understand how the federal government operates and how they see the tax credits as some sort of something-for-nothing welfare grab.

Please forgive me for the whopping $250 in subsidies that Ive received for the past 14 months even though Ive never received literally any form of assistance in any aspect of my life, she clapped back at her viewers recently, reminding them shes paid taxes for 40 years.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

The engagement on her account has boosted viewership. As anguished as her story has been, the tension over the rising cost of health care, told in real time through social media, is resonating with both supporters and detractors. Its helped her to get closer to the 10,000 followers she needs to get paid by the app for her content. She sardonically muses that may be one way to help her stay with her current insurance plan.

Come for me more, please she told her viewers earlier this month. The more you guys do that  and Im going to get to 10K (followers) and then Im going to be able to get monetized  and then you wont have to hear me complain about how (expletive) expensive my health insurance is.

About a week later, she'd reached 10,200 followers.

Dan Keemahill contributed to this report.
This combination photo provided by the National Transportation Safety Board shows a sequence of framegrabs made from video where an engine is seen detaching from the planes left wing upon takeoff at the Louisville International Airport on Nov. 4. The plane had recently been serviced in San Antonio. National Transportation Safety Board

Parcel giant UPS said its fleet of McDonnell Douglas MD-11 cargo jets will not be back in service in time for the peak holiday delivery season after the fiery crash of a plane that had just been serviced in San Antonio.

In an internal memo, the company warned the process of diagnosing the cause of the crash and getting Federal Aviation Administration approval for repairs could take several months. It had been expected to take weeks.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

Boeings ongoing evaluation shows that inspections and potential repairs will be more extensive than initially expected, UPS Airlines President Bill Moore wrote Wednesday in the memo to employees.

Other companies also are affected.

Statesman Logo Want more Statesman? Make us a Preferred Source on Google to see more of us when you search. Add Preferred Source

FedEx, another big user of the MD-11, has said it is working to charter more planes to supplement its fleet. UPS has said its attempting to lease planes to keep packages moving. The two big carriers together count about 50 MD-11s in their fleets, which have hundreds of planes. Western Global Airlines, which lists FedEx and UPS as clients, said it would have to furlough pilots as its MD-11s await repairs.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

MD-11s make up about 9% of the UPS airline fleet and 4% of the FedEx fleet.

Though air cargo demand is expected to grow only slightly from a year ago, delivery firms like UPS and FedEx can see average daily package volume double during the holiday season.

The MD-11 fleets were grounded after an engine broke off one of the planes attempting to take off Nov. 4 from Louisville. Last week, federal investigators said there was evidence of cracks in the engine mount of the plane, which had been at ST Engineering in San Antonio for maintenance for much of the previous two months.

In total, there are 109 MD-11 airliners still in service. Averaging more than 30 years old, they are exclusively used to haul cargo for package delivery companies.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

Boeing, which took over as the manufacturer of MD-11s after merging with McDonnell Douglas in 1997, said in a statement that it is working diligently to provide instructions and technical support to operators so they can meet FAA requirements.

The FAA said Boeing will develop the procedures for inspections and any corrective actions, pending approval from the FAA.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Round Rock police arrested a Houston man Wednesday after a woman reported he had brought her to the city against her will to engage in prostitution, according to police. Villalpando, Rob (CMG-Austin)/Austin American-Statesman

Round Rock police arrested a Houston man after a woman reportedly told officers he had brought her against her will to the city to engage in prostitution.

Brandon Williams, 39, was charged with compelling prostitution by force, threat, coercion or fraud, a first-degree felony punishable by up to 99 years in prison, police said in a social media post. Williams was arrested Wednesday following a tip about possible human trafficking at a house in southeast Round Rock, according to police.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

"The caller told police that a female relative was being held against her will and forced to engage in sex acts, and that the property may have been operating as a short-term rental," the post said.

When officers arrived at the house they allegedly found Williams and two Houston women in their 20s, police said.

"One of the women told officers that Williams had transported them from Houston to Round Rock to engage in prostitution and was preventing them from leaving," the post said. It said officers also found a handgun in Williams possession.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

Statesman Logo Want more Statesman? Make us a Preferred Source on Google to see more of us when you search. Add Preferred Source

Police said both women were provided support and connected with available resources. Investigators believe the incident was isolated.
Students participate in the Plan II Honors junior seminar, Navigating our State Capitol at The University of Texas in Austin, Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025. Mikala Compton/Austin American-Statesman

On Oct. 28, 1929 prices on the New York Stock Exchange crashed, inciting economic panic. The day  infamously known as Black Monday  incited the Great Depression and an economic crisis that would plague American life for a decade.

The nation turned toward junior colleges as a solution in the face of steep economic uncertainty, favoring vocational, quick-turn degrees over traditional academia. Four-year colleges embraced specialization to compete.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

Students participate in the Plan II Honors junior seminar, Navigating our State Capitol at The University of Texas in Austin, Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025. Mikala Compton/Austin American-Statesman

But a week after the crash, University of Texas Dean H.T. Parlin, an English professor from Colorado who led the College of Arts and Science, proposed a bold experiment  an honors program of general education curriculum for the most talented and curious students. It would prepare students not for a specific job, but for a civic life of educational greatness.

This was the education that, to his mind, would create what he called an enlightened citizen, Janet Davis, a faculty director at UT, said. The refrain for all of this was this desire to create a life and not just a living.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

Statesman Logo Want more Statesman? Make us a Preferred Source on Google to see more of us when you search. Add Preferred Source

It wasnt a popular idea at the time. As financial pressures on the country deepened, general education requirements were shrinking, but Parlin believed strongly in the value of a program with a broad, interdisciplinary lens and continued to advocate for it, Davis said.

After five years building support, preparing and implementing his educational vision into a set of requirements, the new curriculum plan  Plan II  launched in September 1935.

For the past 90 years, the rigorous multidisciplinary general education curriculum, tight-knit community and standard of excellence raised thousands of students to be change makers, connectors and leaders, making Plan II one of the most prominent programs in the country, Davis, the director of the program today, said. Alumni are multifaceted - using their education to enter varying arenas including politics, business and the creative arts.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

As higher education and UT itself confront calls to reshape core curriculum, evaluate programs for their return on investment and fill labor needs, Plan II leaders say the program's focus on creativity, freedom to learn and deep study show that investing in traditional academia works.

We started [before] World War II, right at the precipice, said Joshua Russell, Plan II alumnus and current alumni program coordinator. When you're in a time like that and you're trying to build something, we have proven, consistently, that investing in young, curious, innovative minds has not failed us.

How it works

The honors liberal arts program admits a sliver of the already highly selective UT class each year, enrolling anywhere from 155 to 200 students from the nearly 10,000 student pool of freshmen.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

Theres no waitlist, and students are chosen not just for merit-based performance, but also for their curiosity and hunger to learn, Davis said.

The first class had 50 students, a story that made the front page in the local newspaper, Davis boasts, and admission requirements are nearly identical for students today.

Students have broad requirements, including two semesters of world literature and philosophy, multiple interdisciplinary seminars, and a sequence of courses in the natural sciences. The program ends in a year-long independent thesis.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

These lasting, traditional general education requirements have allowed students to learn a broad and deep array of fields. Because Plan II is fed by all other departments in the College of Liberal Arts, with no direct faculty of its own, the courses that fill the requirements change as fields develop, said David Sosa, interim dean of the College of Liberal Arts.

It's found a way to be what some would call a very traditional educational curriculum, Sosa said. Because that curriculum is nourished by courses from other departments, as departments change and develop over time  it's been able to incorporate them in this indirect way.

The College of Liberal Art enrolls 10,000 students with nearly 800 faculty members. Excellent students draw excellent faculty, and the university provides resources most liberal arts schools dont have, Sosa said.

An incubator for entrepreneurs and leaders, Plan II has launched great thinkers in its graduates that include the founder of CarMax, a Pulitzer Prize winning playwright and a former U.S. Attorney General. Locally, Plan II students created Eeyores Birthday, a beloved 60-year-old local tradition and Banarchy  a beloved Austin dessert chain created by a Plan II student for their thesis.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

Drawn to pressing local issues, Plan IIs first graduates wrote about the rise of facism as World War II loomed, Russell said. Todays graduates include engineers, novelists, filmmakers, state representatives and gubernatorial candidates drawn to interdisciplinary learning and problem solving.

Students participate in the Plan II Honors junior seminar, Navigating our State Capitol at The University of Texas in Austin, Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025. Mikala Compton/Austin American-Statesman

Bridge builders are not specialists, said Russell, who chose Plan II because it allowed him to study poetry and physics in concert.

I just didn't want to talk about one without the other. he added. Plan II, he said, just felt like a home to me.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

Current student Siyona Nayampally, a junior in the program interested in public policy, said Plan IIs interdisciplinary focus helped expand her understanding of how she could impact politics outside of government.

Nayampally took an internship focused on research in Panama that allowed her to fully immerse herself in another culture and integrate non-governmental work with the world of politics.

It's really allowed me to grow in ways that I hadn't previously anticipated and expected for myself, Nayampally said. I really know that this was the right decision for me.

The collaborative spirit and community of Plan II helped make the program especially valuable to her. Now president of Plan II Student Association, a student-run organization to support the program, Nayampally works to foster community, coordinating book clubs between professors and students, an annual formal and regular line dancing events at Mavericks Dance Hall.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

The organization makes merchandise  including a Brat by Charli XCX-inspired Plan II tee  and maintains archives to keep the history of the program alive.

They all seemed really curious about the world and had so many different interests, yet were able to engage with each other in these conversations about literature and history and classics, Nayampally said of her fellow students. Its such a strong community, I feel like everybody comes from such different backgrounds and even academic interests but (at) the same time were still able to connect and find common ground.

Plan II for the future

Plan II Honors students John Fahoum, Anna Iskra and Ben Catterton study at The University of Texas in Austin, Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025. Mikala Compton/Austin American-Statesman

The university hosted an anniversary celebration for Plan II earlier this fall, and alumni from across the world returned, Davis said.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

They would tell her Plan II changed their lives and ask how they could help.

That capacity for empathy and understanding through study and through the flexibility of mind, Davis said. I see it as more important than ever.

As the university faces a moment of transition and the college itself considers a potential reorganization, Plan II is a winning strategy that can both be a pillar and model for the rest of the university, and proof of a liberal arts educations value, Sosa said.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad
Williamson County Judge Steve Snell, left, discusses a new regional water study approved by commissioners. Commissioner Valerie Covey stands next to Snell, followed by Cedar Park Mayor Jim Penniman-Morin and Commissioner Russ Boles at far right. Claire Osborn/American-Statesman

GEORGETOWN  To help ensure it has enough water for the next 50 years, Williamson County is spending $500,000 for a study on its projected population growth, water demands and potential water sources during that time.

County Judge Steve Snell said on Tuesday that after he became the county judge in April, he traveled across the area talking to residents and business owners about their concerns.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

"Water increasingly became a topic of conversation," Snell said in a news conference. "Let's face it, in Central Texas we live in a community that faces the challenge of droughts and the weather is very unpredictable. Lake levels are very unpredictable and there's a lot of concern about water levels in the Trinity Aquifer."

To assess the needs of the county for the study, Snell has put together a group of cities and water providers called the Williamson Water Group. The group, which includes representatives from Round Rock, Cedar Park, Georgetown, Leander, Hutto and Jarrell, began discussions about regional water demands about a month ago, said Michael Thane, Round Rock's director of public works. The group also includes representatives from water providers such as the Lower Colorado River Authority, the Jonah Special Utility District and the Brazos River Authority. The county has about 20 water providers.

"We know that water for the future is not located in the county," said Thane. "We have to go get it and it's going to be expensive. ... That's why it's so important to talk about how we can work together for regional solutions."

Statesman Logo Want more Statesman? Make us a Preferred Source on Google to see more of us when you search. Add Preferred Source

The county is expecting to hire a consultant for the water study by April, officials said. The study, which was approved the Commissioners Court on Tuesday, is projected to be finished by the end of 2026.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

"If we can get a regional solution in addition to securing the water, hopefully we can drive the price down as well because it's becoming more and more expensive to treat both drinking water and wastewater," said Snell.

Commissioner Valerie Covey said that once the study is done, the money to pay for the recommendations would come from a variety of sources, including the state. Texas voters approved $20 billion to invest in state water projects over the next two decades. The money will address aging infrastructure, population growth and water supply needs across the state.

Williamson County needs a water plan to address growth, officials said. It has been one of the fastest-growing counties in the state and the nation, growing by 20% over the past five years, according to the county's website.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

Snell said Cedar Park, Leander and Round Rock are already an example of cities working together on regional water plans. They are part of the Brushy Creek Regional Utility Authority project to bring more water from Lake Travis by summer 2027. Cedar Park and Leander rely mainly on Lake Travis for water. Round Rock also gets water from the Edwards Aquifer, Lake Georgetown and Stillhouse Hollow Lake. Thane has said that by 2050, the demand for water in Round Rock will almost exceed the supply.

Georgetown gets its water from Lake Georgetown, Lake Stillhouse, Lake Belton and Lake Travis, along with wells drilled into the Edwards Aquifer.

Georgetown also is pursuing potential long-term water supply agreements with two companies that could provide groundwater from the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer, according to the city's website. The water from the aquifer has to be piped in from other counties because it does not run through Williamson County.

Samsung, a South Korean company building a $17 billion semiconductor plant in southwestern Taylor, eventually plans to receive water from the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer through a 25-mile pipeline from Milam County.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

Liberty Hill relies on water from Lake Travis and the Trinity Aquifer. The city was recently sued by developers claiming that city officials would not grant them site development permits because of concerns about providing water that the builders had already reserved.

Other groups with concerns about water supply in Williamson County include the Aquifer Conservation Alliance, which was formed by rural landowners in the western part of the county worried about their wells in the Trinity Aquifer going dry.

Advertisement Article continues below this ad

County Commissioner Russ Boles said the water study is needed to understand "exactly where we are."
Verkhovna Rada Commissioner for Human Rights Dmytro Lubinets appealed to the German Institute for Human Rights and the Federal Prosecutor's Office, calling for an impartial investigation and oversight of the rights of Ukrainian citizen Serhiy Kuznetsov, a suspect in the Nord Stream gas pipeline sabotage case.

"Today, we officially appealed to our colleague at the German Institute for Human Rights to pay special attention to this case and ensure that Kuznetsov's rights are respected upon his arrival in Germany," Lubinets wrote on Telegram.

He also appealed to the German Federal Prosecutor's Office to ensure the most impartial, reasoned, and objective investigation and subsequent prosecution, free from political labels and pressure, based solely on evidence and within the rule of law.

Lubinets emphasized that these appeals highlight key aspects. Specifically, Serhiy has the right to decent conditions of detention, access to medical care, communication with his lawyers and family, full translation, and an understanding of all procedural actions.

"Respect for the presumption of innocence and fair trial standards is also mandatory. We specifically emphasized that at the time of the events he is accused of, Serhiy was serving in the Ukrainian Armed Forces, meaning the relevant guarantees of international humanitarian law must apply to this case," he noted.

According to Lubinets, his advisor will also be involved in monitoring this process in Germany, as has already become practice, and the ombudsman's advisors work successfully in almost every EU country where similar sensitive situations involving Ukrainian citizens arise.

"My team is already preparing to continuously monitor the situation in Germany. We remain in contact with Kuznetsov's family and lawyers, and will monitor the conditions of his detention, the progress of the investigation, and the trial. If we see signs of violations of his rights, we will respond with all available means," the ombudsman emphasized.

As reported, Italy's Supreme Court upheld a lower court's decision to extradite a Ukrainian suspect in the Nord Stream gas pipeline sabotage case to Germany, Deutsche Welle (DW) reported on Wednesday, citing information from the Ukrainian citizen's lawyer.

On September 16, the Bologna Court of Appeal (Italy) ruled to extradite former Ukrainian captain Kuznetsov, who is accused of blowing up the Nord Stream 1 and Nord Stream 2 gas pipelines, to Germany. His lawyer immediately filed an appeal. He stated in court that he was in Ukraine on the day of the pipeline explosions.

Kuznetsov, 49, was arrested on August 21 on the basis of a European arrest warrant issued by the German Federal Court of Justice at a country hotel in San Clemente, near the Italian city of Rimini, after checking in.

The twin-pipe Nord Stream 1 pipeline, running through the Baltic Sea from Russia to Germany, with a total capacity of over 55 billion cubic meters of gas per year, was commissioned in 2011-2012. The parallel Nord Stream 2 was intended to transport a similar volume of gas; however, despite its completion, it never entered service due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022. In September 2022, an explosion depressurized two lines of Nord Stream 1 and one of Nord Stream 2 near the Danish island of Bornholm. Russia has opened a criminal case under the article on international terrorism. Germany is also continuing its investigation into the explosions, while Sweden closed its investigation in February 2024.
Property of former PMC Redut mercenary fighting against Ukraine transferred to ARMA

Photo: https://www.facebook.com/frankivskpolice/posts/

Police officers transferred the seized property of a former PMC Redut mercenary fighting against Ukraine to the Asset Recovery and Management Agency (ARMA), the National Police of Ukraine reported on the Telegram channel on Friday.

"Among the assets is a non-residential building with an area of almost 500 sq m and a land plot in Kharkiv region, the market value of which exceeds UAH 2 million," the report states.

According to the investigation, the defendant is the commander of a volunteer reconnaissance and assault brigade of the Russian Federation and is currently fighting on the side of the aggressor country. He has been notified of suspicion of high treason.

He is currently on the state and international wanted list.
On November 26, Geovis Technology Co., Ltd. officially unveiled the "Star-Eye" Space Perception Constellation Plan in Beijing. The spacebased sensing network  the "Star-Eye" constellation, composed of 156 satellites  was formally introduced. Notably, the projects overall planning, R&D strength, computing backbone, and measurementandcontrol system all originate in Hefei. In recent years, launch frequency at many domestic spaceports has continued to rise, and the overall operational tempo has noticeably accelerated. Expansion of lowEarth orbit constellations, new satellite experiments, and commercial payload missions have led to different types of spacecraft entering orbit intensively over short timeframes. This has increased pressure on inorbit satellite management. Satellites are not static; they continually maneuver and adjust attitude. When numbers and missions were small and fixed, risks were manageable; but as the quantity of spacecraft and space debris rapidly grows, broader and higherfrequency space observation capabilities are required. Over the past few years, Hefei has been building out an aerospace information industry chain  from data processing and satellite measurementandcontrol to the landing of commercial space companies  creating a foundation for sustainable development. This environment has allowed the "Star-Eye" technical system and team to take root, accumulate experience, and mature. Unlike the Earthobserving and communications satellites the public is familiar with, "Star-Eye" does not observe Earth; it observes objects in space directly. The constellation plan comprises 156 satellites. Phaseone will deploy 12 satellites to establish the core observation capability, and a further 144 satellites will later expand coverage. Payloads on board  optical imagers, infrared detectors, and electromagnetic surveillance instruments  will continuously record the orbital trajectories and status changes of onorbit spacecraft and space debris and transmit that data to the ground. After data fusion and computation by ground systems, a continuously updated "space traffic map" can be generated. This will prevent satellites from operating "in the dark" and enable operators to minimize potential collision risks to the greatest extent. Geovis Technology Co., Ltd. was founded in 2016 and is based in the Hefei National High-tech Industry Development Zone (Hefei high-tech zone). If space is likened to a threedimensional highway, "Star-Eye" is installing cameras and radars, providing realtime traffic conditions, and pushing that information to every "driver." At the industryapplication level, "Star-Eye" data are not for display purposes but feed directly into frontline operational scenarios. Multiple satellite operators have already started integrating their orbital data needs with Geovis for use in scheduling, status analysis, and longterm mission management. Rocket companies are also negotiating launchsafety assessment collaborations to obtain more accurate launch windows before missions.

Source: Hefei Evening News
Photo: https://www.facebook.com/RedCrossUkraine

Representatives of The Ukrainian Red Cross Society (URCS) took part in a roundtable talk organised by the Swedish Red Cross and the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute

"The Ukrainian Red Cross took part in a roundtable organised by the Swedish Red Cross and the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI)  The meeting focused on the challenges of humanitarian response in Ukraine, compliance with international humanitarian law, and the role of National Societies in protecting civilians," URCS said on Facebook Friday.

During the discussion, Director General of the Ukrainian Red Cross, Maksym Dotsenko, and his deputy, Olena Stokoz, emphasized the large-scale humanitarian consequences resulting from the constant shelling by the Russian Federation, the destruction of civilian and critical infrastructure, and limited access to frontline communities. They also spoke about the role of the Ukrainian Red Cross as a supporting partner of the state and emphasized the need to strengthen the potential of national societies in humanitarian response. They separately presented the work of the Ukrainian Red Cross in the field of emergency response, evacuations, and winter preparation, and drew attention to the importance of adhering to international humanitarian law amid the increase in Russian attacks on the civilian population. The leadership of the Ukrainian Red Cross also touched on the topic of cooperation with partners in the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement in the field of scientific research on the challenges associated with adhering to humanitarian values when responding to armed conflicts.

"The Ukrainian Red Cross remains committed to upholding the Fundamental Principles of the Movement and will continue its work to protect civilians and support people affected by the war in Ukraine," URCS noted.
U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Steve Lundin of Marine Rotational Force-Southeast Asia, right, coordinates with a Philippine airman to unload family food packs from an MV-22B Osprey aircraft in Virac, Philippines, on Nov. 13, 2025. (Brian Knowles/U.S. Marine Corps)



A U.S. Marine Corps rotational force arrived for the second consecutive year just in time for a pair of typhoons in the Philippines.

The 100-strong Marine Rotational Force-Southeast Asia force kicked off its fourth annual mission in October, just before the typhoons struck, Capt. Brian Tuthill, a spokesman for the force, said by phone Wednesday.

Typhoon Kalmaegi made landfall Nov. 4, followed five days later by Typhoon Fung-Wong. Together they prompted an order for the Marines to help move aid to storm victims.

As soon as we got word of the typhoons, we expected we might get these tasks, Tuthill said.

The order reprised last years rotation, when Marines were called to bring aid to Basco, on the Philippines northern island of Batan, following Super Typhoon Krathon, which made landfall Sept. 30, 2024.

This year the Marines and sailors from the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit did pre-deployment disaster response training with the State Department at Camp Pendleton, Calif., Tuthill said.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Justin Goldt, center, a team lead with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, briefs Col. Robb McDonald, right, commander of Marine Rotational Force-Southeast Asia, during a simulated maritime strike as part of exercise Sama Sama at Camp Rodolfo, Philippines, on Oct. 15, 2025. (Manuel Serrano/U.S. Marine Corps)



A 13-member advance team travelled Nov. 11 to Clark Air Base, a former U.S. facility north of Manila, to help receive approximately 500 U.S. personnel involved in the typhoon relief effort, he said.

The troops at Clark helped organize the arrival of 10,000 family food packs before they were flown to the eastern Philippines, he said.

Six C-130 airlifters, four MV-22B tiltrotors and three HH-60 helicopters from across the U.S. services joined in the relief efforts, according to a Nov. 16 Marine Corps news release.

The Marines flew on sorties to deliver the aid to Virac, in the countrys east, from Nov. 13-15, according to Tuthill.

The rotational force, which adjusts its size based on each mission, joined drills with forces from the Philippines, Indonesia and Australia before the real-world relief mission. Members of the force will travel to Malaysia for more training in December, he said.

Last years rotation lasted six months, but Tuthill declined to provide a timeline for the current mission, citing operational security.

The U.S. Marine Corps is committed to international cooperation in the region, Col. Robb McDonald, commander of the force, said in comments emailed Friday by Tuthill. By conducting training through joint exercises, MRF-SEA will enhance relationships and our collective capabilities while reinforcing our shared values of preserving mutually agreed upon rules.
Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar stands at the State Department in Washington, Sept. 30, 2025. (Mark Schiefelbein/AP)



PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad  The prime minister of Trinidad and Tobago retracted comments where she asserted that no U.S. Marines were currently in the twin-island nation  a development that comes as the U.S. government seeks allies amid ongoing strikes on suspected drug traffickers in the Caribbean and beyond.

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar told reporters Thursday that U.S. Marines were at the airport on the island of Tobago working on its radar, runway and road just days after she said they had left.

They will help us to improve our surveillance and the intelligence of the radars for the narco-traffickers in our waters and outside our waters, she said, without providing details.

Trinidad and Tobagos attorney general, and the ministers of defense and homeland security did not immediately return messages seeking comment on Friday.

It was not clear if the U.S. government plans to use the radar that theyre working on at the Tobago airport.

It also wasnt clear whether they were installing a new radar or upgrading the current one.

Persad-Bissessar met Wednesday with Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and U.S. President Donald Trumps primary military adviser, who traveled to Trinidad and Tobago.

A day after the visit, Persad-Bissessar told reporters that Trinidad had not been asked to be a base for any attack against Venezuela, and that Venezuela was not mentioned in recent conversations with the U.S.

Officials in Tobago have confirmed that at least one U.S. military plane recently touched down on the island, saying it was for the purpose of refueling.

Earlier this year, the U.S. approached the eastern Caribbean island of Grenada asking if they could install a temporary radar at its main international airport, but officials there have not said whether they would authorize such a move.

Grenada, like Trinidad and Tobago, is located close to Venezuela, with some experts saying that the ongoing U.S. military buildup in the Caribbean, the largest in generations, is a tactic to force Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro to resign.

Earlier this week, the president of the Dominican Republic, Luis Abinader, announced that he would allow the U.S. government temporary access to restricted areas at an air base and at the Caribbean countrys main international airport to help the U.S. in its ongoing fight against drug trafficking. He made the announcement with U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth at his side.

The U.S. strikes that began in early September have killed at least 83 people.
Searches conducted at Yermaks place, no one notified of suspicion - source in anti-corruption agencies

The National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) conducted searches at the home of Andriy Yermak, head of the Presidents Office of Ukraine. No one was notified of suspicion, a source in the anti-corruption agencies told Interfax-Ukraine.

"NABU and SAPO, based on a ruling by the investigative judge of the High Anti-Corruption Court, conducted searches at the residence of the head of the Presidents Office of Ukraine. No one was notified of suspicion," the agency's source noted.

He added that the investigation is currently ongoing.
The Navy accepts delivery of the future USS Cleveland on Nov. 26, 2025. The ship is the 16th and final Freedom-class littoral combat ship slated for service. (U.S. Navy)



The Navy now is in possession of the final Freedom-class littoral combat ship after a milestone moment this week for a troubled collection of vessels once valued for their promise as stealthy multi-mission combatants.

The future USS Cleveland, the 16th and last ship of the class, was delivered to the fleet Wednesday, the Navy said in a statement the same day.

After commissioning in Cleveland early next year, the ship will be homeported in Mayport, Fla., supporting forward presence, maritime security, sea control, and deterrence in key operational theaters, the Navy said.

This highly capable and lethal warship is ready to assert maritime dominance and protect global waters with unparalleled precision and power, Melissa Kirkendall, program executive officer of unmanned and small combatants, said in the statement.

Littoral combat ships are fast, nimble vessels prized for their abilities in coastal areas and the open ocean, but the Freedom variant quickly was beset by propulsion problems and other costly issues.

In 2022, the Navy proposed mothballing nine Freedom-class ships well ahead of their end-of-service dates because of insufficient firepower, saying it wanted to prioritize production of Constellation-class frigates, which deliver a more powerful punch.

Ultimately, five of the ships were saved. Since then, the Navy has decommissioned four Freedom-class ships. They followed the class lead ship, USS Freedom, which was decommissioned in 2021.

The Navy also has accepted delivery of six more of the ships. With the Cleveland added, there will be 11 Freedom-variant ships in service, according to the Navys website.

Another variety of littoral combat ship, the Independence class, also has experienced problems, including cracks in the hulls of at least six vessels. There are 17 Independence-class ships in service, the final vessel in the variation being USS Pierre, which commissioned on Nov. 15.

Two Independence variants, USS Canberra and USS Santa Barbara, have been equipped with mine countermeasures capabilities and are on duty in Bahrain.

Two others, USS Tulsa and a vessel that has not yet been identified, are expected to join them, replacing the Avenger-class mine countermeasures ships that served in the Middle East for years.

The Navy also is planning to enable Freedom-class ships armed with AGM-114L Longbow Hellfire missiles to fire those weapons against aerial drones, news site The War Zone reported in January.

USS Indianapolis was the first of the ships upgraded with the capability, which it received during operations in the Middle East in the fall of 2024, according to the report.

Indianapolis is the first and only littoral combat ship to receive a Combat Action Ribbon, according to the Navy.

Meanwhile, Navy Secretary John Phelan said this week that the service will jettison the Constellation-class frigate program to free up funds and shipyard space for other projects.

The program has been plagued by delays and cost overruns. The lead ship, USS Constellation, is not expected to be delivered to the fleet until 2029, about three years behind schedule.

Stars and Stripes reporter Gary Warner contributed to this report.
Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro after taking the oath during the presidential inauguration in Caracas on Jan.10, 2025. Maduro has been in power since 2013. (Juan Barreto/AFP/Getty Images/TNS)



MIAMI (Tribune News Service)  President Donald Trump said Thursday that U.S. military operations against Venezuelas so-called Cartel de los Soles  until now limited to blowing up speedboats suspected of carrying drugs in the Caribbean  will soon expand onto land, signaling potential incursions inside the South American country.

Trumps comments came as Venezuelan strongman Nicolas Maduro continued shoring up support within the armed forces, urging the Air Force on Thursday to remain on high alert amid the massive buildup of U.S. military assets across the southern Caribbean.

Speaking during a Thanksgiving call with service members, Trump said the U.S. Armed Forces would very soon begin land-based efforts to stop what he called Venezuelan drug traffickers, claiming maritime operations have already produced significant results, AFP reported.

He said recent U.S. actions in the Caribbean and Pacific have destroyed more than 20 boats allegedly linked to drug networks  mostly from Venezuela  and resulted in more than 80 deaths since Sept. 1. Trump asserted the United States has stopped 85% of maritime flow and accused Venezuelan groups of sending poison to the U.S., where he said it kills thousands of people a year.

The remarks come as Washington intensifies pressure on Caracas. Since Nov. 16, the Pentagon has deployed the USS Gerald R. Ford  the largest and most advanced aircraft carrier in the U.S. fleet  to the region. On Monday, the State Department designated the Cartel de los Soles, which it says is led by Maduro and his top brass, as a Foreign Terrorist Organization  a move is widely interpreted inside Venezuela as one that could pave the way for U.S. military action, turning the Maduro regime into a military target.

Despite the escalation, Trump said earlier this week he has not decided to bomb Venezuelan infrastructure or directly target Maduro. He added that he is willing to talk with the Venezuelan leader to save lives, but warned that Maduro could choose to do things the easy way or the hard way. He did not specify what concessions he would demand.

The U.S. Air Force reported that B-52H bombers also conducted demonstrations over the Caribbean on Monday. The broader buildup  underway for more than two months  now includes the Gerald R. Ford, at least 10 warships, a nuclear submarine and F-35 fighter jets. While commanders insist the deployment supports counter-narcotics missions, the level of firepower far exceeds what is typically assigned to drug-interdiction operations.

Concern over rising tensions has spread beyond the military sphere. Six airlines suspended service to Venezuela over the weekend after the U.S. issued a warning to civilian aircraft about risks stemming from heightened military activity in the region.

Iberia, TAP Air Portugal, Avianca, Caribbean Airlines, Brazils GOL and Chiles LATAM halted flights, said Marisela de Loaiza, president of Venezuelas airline association. She did not indicate how long the suspensions would last.

In Caracas, Maduro responded defiantly during a ceremony marking the 105th anniversary of the Bolivarian Military Aviation. Speaking remotely, he warned that if Venezuela were forced to declare itself a republic in arms, it would be destined for victory.

Wearing military attire, Maduro urged the Air Force to remain serene, alert, ready and willing to defend national sovereignty. He accused imperialist powers of trying for 17 weeks to destabilize the Caribbean and South America with false and extravagant arguments.

He insisted that neither sanctions nor the economic blockade nor what he described as a psychological war had weakened Venezuelas resolve. Maduro pointed to increases in civilian enlistment and praised what he called the governments coordinated popularmilitary-police unity in defense of peace and stability.

2025 Miami Herald.

Visit miamiherald.com.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
U.S. and South Korean navy sailors discuss maneuvers aboard the USS Dewey during the Maritime Counter Special Operations Exercise in South Korea, Nov. 18, 2025. (Oscar Diaz/U.S. Navy)



CAMP HUMPHREYS, South Korea  North Koreas government media on Friday denounced the years U.S. military activity in the region as gravely threatening to strategic stability on the Korean Peninsula.

A series of exercises on and off the peninsula encroaches upon North Koreas sphere of security, according to an unsigned commentary published on the Korean Central News Agency website.

We have already made it clear that all threats encroaching upon our sphere of security will become direct targets of the [Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea] and be managed in a necessary way, the KCNA commentary states, referring to the country by its formal name.

U.S. Forces Korea responded that military exercises by the U.S. and South Korea ensure the readiness necessary to meet the expectations of those we lead and those we are sworn to protect, according to email Friday from USFK spokesman David Kim.

Our training events are transparent and focused on deterrence, defense, and the maintenance of peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and across the region, Kim said. We maintain a strictly defensive posture, and our exercises are designed to prevent conflict, not provoke it.

KCNA lists a series of reckless military moves this year, most recently an anti-submarine and counter special operations drill with South Korea.

The four-day Maritime Counter Special Operations Forces Exercise involved the guided missile destroyer USS Dewey, an MH-60R Seahawk helicopter, two U.S. AH-060E Apache helicopters and one U.S. P-8A Poseidon surveillance aircraft, according to a U.S. Navy news release Nov. 21. The exercise took place Nov. 17 to 21 in Pyeongtaek and offshore, according to the Navy.

Our routine and long-planned defensive training exercises are essential to ensure we meet our mission: to defend the homelands and uphold our ironclad commitment to [South Korea], Kim said.

The South Korea Joint Chiefs of Staff in a text message to Stars and Stripes on Friday said the nations military conducted an annual defensive exercise for the stability on the Korean Peninsula and the region, and we will continue this effort.

KCNA also referenced a U.S. Air Force consolidation this year of F-16 Fighting Falcons from Misawa Air Base, Japan, and Kunsan Air Base, South Korea, into two super squadrons at Osan Air Base, 48 miles south of the border between North and South.

The super squadron initiative is a yearlong force-optimization test designed to see if a larger, consolidated squadron can generate more combat power and operate more efficiently, according to an Air Force news release in August. KCNA said the Air Force is running amuck by creating two super-powerful wings  at Osan.

It is an irrefutable fact that it is aimed at deterring the DPRK and regional countries by force and securing air superiority in contingency, the commentary states.

The commentary also criticized the U.S. for military exercises and arms buildups in Japan and Guam targeting independent sovereign states in the region.

South Korea for the first time sent its own domestically designed and built submarine and other assets to Guam for a biennial Silent Shark exercise starting Nov. 18, according to the Korea JooAng Daily on Nov. 17.
Marine Corps Maj. Richard Benning, center left, the operations officer with Task Force-Philippines, briefs Lt. Gen. Christian Wortman, the commanding general of I Marine Expeditionary Force, at Camp Aguinaldo, Manila, Philippines, Nov. 13, 2025. (Nicholas Cox/U.S. Marine Corps)



Sixty personnel from the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps and led by a Marine major general are working for a new U.S. military task force in the Philippines, according to the U.S. Pacific Fleet.

Task Force-Philippines, aimed at deterring aggression in the South China Sea, was announced Oct. 31 by U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Philippine Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro.

We share concerns about Chinas coercion in the South China Sea, particularly recently in Scarborough Shoal, Hegseth said at the time.

China, which claims nearly the entire South China Sea, seized the shoal from the Philippines in 2012 and has since declared it a nature reserve.

The presence of Task Force-Philippines reinforces our dedication to supporting the Philippine governments efforts to maintain stability and security in the country, Pacific Fleet spokeswoman Cmdr. Christina Hough said by email Thursday.

The unit is led by Maj. Gen. Thomas Savage, commander of the 1st Marine Division, based at Camp Pendleton, Calif. The task force coordinates with the Philippine military on exercises and operations involving U.S. forces in the islands, Hough said.

The number of U.S. personnel will fluctuate on a rotational basis, as need and requested by the host nation, but a core element of approximately 60 personnel serve as the primary staff, she said. Task Force-Philippines helps maintain the high-level of combined military readiness required to respond jointly to future crises, contingencies, or natural disasters.

The United States vacated its permanent bases in the Philippines in 1992, but U.S. forces may operate from nine sites there under the 2014 Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement.

Task Force-Philippines has no equipment, warships, aircraft or vehicles assigned to it and officials declined to disclose its headquarters location, citing operational security, according to Houghs email.

The task force is responsible for coordinating with all visiting U.S. forces, she said.

The task force enhances the Philippine-led Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept by planning and helping the allied forces work together, she said.

The Philippine military has been shifting its focus from counterinsurgency to territorial defense amid challenges to its territory by China.

Teodoro introduced the archipelagic defense concept in March 2024 as a priority for his countrys military, according to Houghs email.

The concept provides a framework that prioritizes sovereignty, fortification of maritime borders, and the Philippines exclusive economic zone, the email said.

The presence of Task Force-Philippines reinforces our dedication to supporting the Philippine governments efforts to maintain stability and security in the country. We are committed to upholding our shared values and promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific region, Hough said.

The new task force encompasses the entire Philippine archipelago and incorporates humanitarian and disaster response capabilities, Hough said.
The 2nd Security Force Assistance Brigade command team cases the colors for the last time during an inactivation ceremony Nov. 26, 2025, at Fort Bragg, N.C. The 2nd SFABs mission included advising and assisting African allies and partners. (Alison Strout/U.S. Army)



An Army brigade that specializes in training foreign troops was inactivated this week in connection with the services broader transformation plans, which have implications for how it partners with militaries worldwide.

The 2nd Security Force Assistance Brigade, which focused primarily on training counterparts in the Middle East and Africa, ended its mission Wednesday during a ceremony at Fort Bragg, N.C., Security Force Assistance Command said in a statement.

Activated in 2018 and most recently under U.S. Africa Command, the unit carried out its first overseas mission in Afghanistan in 2019, the command said.

The units end is likely a harbinger of more changes to come for the SFAB command structure. The Army launched the advisory brigade initiative back in 2017.

The program eventually grew to five active component SFABs and one other linked with the Army National Guard.

However, Army budget plans call for supporting just two SFABs in the future, the Congressional Research Office said in a July report, which noted that the service hasnt specified which four units would be cut.

The 2nd appears to be the first such unit to see its mission officially end.

This brigade has embodied what it means to advise, assist, and strengthen our partners across the globe, Col. Mathew Bunch, leader of Security Force Assistance Command, said in the statement.

Training foreign militaries has long been a focus of the Army and was a major aspect of the services mission during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The mission often forced the Army to pull apart its traditional combat brigades to build small training-and-advising units.

At the time, the Army saw the SFAB structure as a way to enable traditional brigades to remain focused on their main mission, training to fight.

But now its looking to trim in areas not directly related to boosting U.S firepower, as the service seeks to align with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseths April directive to prioritize building lethality.

This initiative will reexamine all requirements and eliminate unnecessary ones, (as well as) ruthlessly prioritize fighting formations, the Armys top two leaders, Secretary Dan Driscoll and Gen. Randy George, said in a joint letter to the force in May.

Some proponents of the SFAB system, however, say there are downsides to eliminating such units.

SFABs elevate deterrence by making any potential adversary face a more networked and prepared coalition, three Army officers wrote in a July essay for the Modern War Institute at West Point.

A partner force that trains regularly with American advisors, speaks a common operational language, and can leverage US systems in a crisis is far more resilient  and from an adversarys perspective, more dangerous  than one left to fend for itself, the authors wrote.

A May story by Task & Purpose that cited Army officials said there were also plans to cut the Europe-focused 4th SFAB and the Guards 54th SFAB to get more of those troops into frontline units.

It wasnt immediately clear Friday whether U.S. Army Europe and Africa still uses the 4th SFAB.
American and Lithuanian dignitaries cut a ribbon in front of a newly opened barracks for U.S. soldiers Nov. 26, 2025, at the Pabrade Training Area in Lithuania. (Brian Sutherland/U.S. Army)



Lithuania will cover all the costs associated with hosting U.S. troops in the country, where a new barracks is among the improvements made for American forces deployed along NATOs eastern edge.

The announcement, made during a ribbon-cutting ceremony Wednesday at the Pabrade Training Area, also mentioned a new dining facility and fitness center, part of a nearly $300 million logistical support package.

This will enhance the readiness and lethality of United States forces and shows our commitment to the United States presence here in Lithuania, a presence that is crucial for our collective security, Defense Minister Robertas Kaunas said, according to a U.S. Army Europe and Africa statement.

More than 1,000 U.S. troops are currently deployed to Lithuania, which has long been regarded as a potential flashpoint in any conflict, given the countrys proximity to the Russian military exclave of Kaliningrad and Kremlin ally Belarus.

The new facilities also are part of ensuring that U.S. and Lithuanian troops can coordinate a military response in the event of a potential crisis in the region, the statement said.

It represents the bricks-and-mortar aspect that underpins NATOs efforts for power projection and defense in the Baltic region, USAREUR-AF said.

Housed in a multifunctional complex, the new facilities have been dubbed the Soldier Center in memory of the four U.S. soldiers who died in a March training accident in the country, Kaunas said.

Lithuanian officials and U.S. soldiers from the 1st Infantry Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment stand outside Nov. 26, 2025, during a ribbon-cutting ceremony for new barracks at the Pabrade Training Area, Lithuania. Lithuania will cover the costs of a nearly $300 million logistical support package to host U.S. troops in the country. (Brian Sutherland/U.S. Army)



Staff Sgt. Jose Duenez Jr., 25; Staff Sgt. Edvin Franco, 25; Pfc. Dante Taitano, 21; and Staff Sgt. Troy S. Knutson-Collins, 28, died when their military vehicle went off course into a deep bog, triggering a long and complex recovery effort.

Their deaths prompted an outpouring of support in Lithuania, where scores of people with American flags lined the streets as a convoy carried the remains of the soldiers to the airport in the capital Vilnius.

Gen. Christopher Donahue, the leader of USAREUR-AF, lauded Lithuania on Wednesday as a model of what an ally looks like.

In July, Donahue unveiled the Eastern Flank Deterrence Line, which incorporates a network of early-alert sensors, unmanned systems and air defenses aimed at quickly blunting a potential Russian offensive into the Baltics.

Every adversary knows if you dare to cross that line, we will win, and we will win decisively, Donahue said.

The concept, already operational but still being built out, is aimed at bringing ground combat techniques into the 21st century.

Lithuanias announcement comes amid uncertainty about the level of future U.S. military support in the Baltics. In September, the Financial Times reported that the Pentagon was considering scaling back some of its security initiatives in the region.

And the recent decision to reduce troop deployments to Romania in southern Europe has raised questions about whether the Baltic states could be next.

Still, there has been no indication yet that troop rotations to Lithuania or similar missions in Estonia and Latvia that enjoy bipartisan support in Congress are on the chopping block.

The expansion of Lithuanias support package for the U.S. Army was a decisive step forward and would cover all costs related to sustaining American troops in the country, Kaunas said.
A German court sentenced a U.S. airman Nov. 26, 2025, to more than three years in prison for killing a woman in a head-on collision while he was drunk and driving the wrong way on the autobahn near Spangdahlem Air Base in May. (Aspen Reid/U.S. Air Force)



KAISERSLAUTERN, Germany  An American airman who killed a young woman in a drunken wrong-way crash on the autobahn near Spangdahlem Air Base was handed a prison term of over three years by a German court this week.

The unidentified 24-year-old airman is assigned to the base and will remain in custody there during the appeals process, his attorney said Thursday, a day after the Trier District Court sentenced him to three years and four months in German prison.

He was convicted on charges of negligent homicide, negligent bodily injury and intentional endangerment of road traffic.

The airman will appeal in hopes of a sentence reduction, said his attorney Christian Hoelzer. If the prison term is upheld on appeal, the airman would likely serve his time at the Wittlich correctional facility near Spangdahlem, Hoelzer said.

The crash occurred May 3 on the autobahn A60 near Landscheid, a few miles east of Spangdahlem. The airman was driving his Jeep Wrangler the wrong way and hit a car driven by a 23-year-old woman.

She was taken to a hospital, where she died. Two 24-year-old female passengers also suffered serious injuries. The airmans injuries were minor.

Prosecutors said he had a blood alcohol level of 0.14% at the time of the crash. The legal limit in Germany is 0.05% in most cases.

Germany typically waives its jurisdiction in cases involving U.S. military personnel and German citizens. The Trier prosecutors office said the decision to try the airman in a German court was based on the number of victims involved.

One of them testified in court Wednesday that the driver shouted Oh, no! shortly before the 3 a.m. collision, according to reporting by German news organization SWR.

She told the court through tears that the driver had picked up her and the other passenger from Hahn Airport after a vacation. One of the passengers underwent emergency surgery after the collision, according to SWR.

Written testimony from service members who were with the airman the night of the collision described him as being so drunk that he became loud and obnoxious and was asked to stop drinking several times, according to SWR.

They tried to prevent the airman from driving home to Trier that evening and offered him a place to sleep, but he left during the night without the others noticing, Hoelzer said.

On Nov. 18, the first day of the trial, the airman admitted to consuming large amounts of alcohol and said he did not realize he was driving against traffic on the autobahn. He also apologized in court to the drivers family and the two other victims.

Trials in Germany are not usually held on consecutive days as they are in the United States.

The sentence handed down matched the prosecutions recommendation, according to SWR. Hoelzer had argued for two years probation, SWR reported.

Stars and Stripes reporter Marcus Kloeckner contributed to this story.
U.S. service members line the streets of Washington, D.C., during an honor escort  also known as a fallen soldier procession  for U.S. Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom of the West Virginia National Guard on Nov. 27, 2025. A fallen soldier procession is a solemn tradition in which military members stand in silent respect as a fallen service member is escorted to their final resting place, symbolizing the nations gratitude for a life given in service. (William Blankenship/U.S. Air National Guard)



Service members gathered Thursday night on the streets of Washington, D.C., to pay their respects to Spc. Sarah Beckstrom of the West Virginia National Guard, who was killed while serving her country.

Members of local law enforcement participated in the honor escort.

Beckstrom was shot Wednesday by an Afghan national near the White House. President Donald Trump announced Thursday that she had died. A second member of the West Virginia Guard, Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, also was shot and is critical condition.

U.S. service members line the streets of Washington, D.C., during an honor escort for U.S. Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom of the West Virginia National Guard, Nov. 27, 2025. (William Blankenship/U.S. Air National Guard)

U.S. service members line the streets of Washington, D.C., during an honor escort for U.S. Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom of the West Virginia National Guard, Nov. 27, 2025. (William Blankenship/U.S. Air National Guard)

U.S. service members line the streets of Washington, D.C., during an honor escort for U.S. Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom of the West Virginia National Guard, Nov. 27, 2025. (William Blankenship/U.S. Air National Guard)

U.S. service members line the streets of Washington, D.C., during an honor escort for U.S. Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom of the West Virginia National Guard, Nov. 27, 2025. (William Blankenship/U.S. Air National Guard)

U.S. service members line the streets of Washington, D.C., during an honor escort for U.S. Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom of the West Virginia National Guard, Nov. 27, 2025. (William Blankenship/U.S. Air National Guard)

U.S. service members line the streets of Washington, D.C., during an honor escort for U.S. Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom of the West Virginia National Guard, Nov. 27, 2025. (William Blankenship/U.S. Air National Guard)

U.S. service members line the streets of Washington, D.C., during an honor escort for U.S. Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom of the West Virginia National Guard, Nov. 27, 2025. (William Blankenship/U.S. Air National Guard)



Trump called Beckstrom an incredible person, outstanding in every single way.

Beckstrom was assigned to the 863rd Military Police Company, 111th Engineer Brigade of the West Virginia Army National Guard.

Beckstrom, of Summersville, W.Va., had volunteered to ensure the safety and security of our nations capital, the Guard said in a statement. She graduated from Webster County High School in June 2023 and enlisted that month, serving with distinction as a military police officer, the Guard said. She exemplified leadership, dedication and professionalism.

Sarah, a member of the Class of 2023, has always demonstrated the strength, character, and commitment that make our school and community proud, Webster County High School said in a Facebook post. Her decision to serve her country reflects the very best of what we hope to instill in our Highlander students.

After high school, Beckstrom ended up in Summersville, where she was a community engagement specialist with a clinic that provides services for teens and young adults with mental illnesses, substance abuse problems or developmental disabilities, Summersville Mayor Robert Shafter said in a statement on Facebook.

Her former boyfriend, Adam Carr, told The New York Times she wasnt initially excited about her deployment to Washington but grew to enjoy helping people and getting the chance to see memorials and museums.

On Friday, the military said no final decisions have been made on what honors Beckstrom would receive, according to The Washington Post. Those honors could potentially include a posthumous promotion in rank, medals such as the Purple Heart or other military commendation, and military burial. The Joint Task Force-D.C. will fully support and honor the familys wishes and ensure all appropriate military traditions are upheld, it said in a statement to The Post.

Meanwhile, Berkeley County Sheriff Rob Blair said in a social media post that Sgt. Jason Wolfe and his wife, Melody, wanted the public to know how much they appreciate their prayers for their son, Andy, and asked people to continue to pray for them.

Hundreds of National Guard members from the district and several states have been patrolling the nations capital after Trump issued an emergency order, federalizing the local police force and sending in the Guard from eight states and the District of Columbia.

Contributing: The Associated Press.
In Moscow, Russia, consumers are complaining en masse about mobile and even landline internet outages, according to the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine's Center for Countering Disinformation.

"However, the digital network is not completely disappearing: websites approved by the Russian authorities from the 'white list' remain accessible. Previously, the internet was shut down in 46 Russian regions using a similar scheme," the message reads.

Russian authorities are reportedly scaling up internet shutdowns nationwide, citing protection from Ukrainian drones.

"However, the Kremlin's real plans are quite obvious: the Russian government is trying to cut Russians off from the global internet, leaving them access only to propaganda resources. The Russian authorities are gradually implementing 'digital isolation' for Russians, expanding the geographic reach and increasing the duration of outages, ultimately depriving citizens of even the opportunity to receive information from independent sources," the Center for Countering Disinformation.
Hector Barbotta Seville Friday, 28 November 2025, 17:15 Share

The period during which the Andalusian government devoted its greatest efforts to absorbing the blows inflicted by the serious healthcare crisis in the breast cancer screening programme is now over. The president of the Junta, Juanma Moreno, has used the state of the region debate, the last of the current term of office, to bid farewell to that tough time and to usher in a new era that has him clearly going on the offensive. The goal of this new era is the upcoming regional elections, the date of which is still unknown.

Since the breast cancer screening crisis hit the headlines at the end of September, the opposition on both sides of the political spectrum believed they had found, for the first time since the political shift in Andalucia to the PP party, a breach through which they could begin to undermine the hegemony that Juanma Moreno has managed to build in recent years, which resulted in the absolute majority that he and the People's Party obtained in 2022. From the left, they attributed all the problems in Andalucia's healthcare service to an alleged privatisation process of this public service. From Vox, they presented the problem as proof that the management capability touted by the PP is utter fiction and that its model is identical to that of the socialist party, just painted in a different colour.

During these recent months of crisis, the Junta's narrative was limited to announcing the measures adopted to deal with the healthcare crisis, from an initial shock plan to the announcement that the healthcare system would be turned inside out and upside down to fix it.

At Thursday's debate event, however, Moreno made it clear that the defensive phase is over and he has now moved onto the attack. The road to the polls will be marked by an unequivocal defence of the management record of his Junta these past years. This applies to all areas, but also to healthcare. Within the governing party, there is the feeling that the opposition parties have missed their opportunity.

Good timing?

The date for the state of the region debate was announced by the regional government's spokesperson on the same day that the 'face masks case' came to public attention in Almeria, a situation that involves some of the PP top brass in that province. This too was a sign that Moreno had no intention of shying away from this affair.

In his opening remarks, Moreno boasted with data about his seven years in charge of the Junta

As part of this strategy, instead of tiptoeing around healthcare, the issue that has caused him the most headaches, Moreno made it a central part of his speech. First, he highlighted the 100 new healthcare facilities built during his term of office, the vaccination schedule (one of the most comprehensive in Spain), the expansion of screening programmes, the investment in oncology equipment, the implementation of new cancer treatment systems and the reduction in surgical waiting lists, which are four times longer than the national average. He also spoke of the crisis in breast cancer screening and gave assurances that this programme, with the Junta's response to the crisis, has clearly been strengthened "with more services, more aid and more sensitivity".

'A blatant lie'

The regional president also referred to the accusations of privatisation of public healthcare levelled at the PP by the left, asserting that it is "a blatant and categorical lie, a major con".

His first speech, which lasted two hours, was a comprehensive review of his management of the Junta de Andalucia, referring not only to the current fiscal year or his current term of office, but to the nearly seven years he has served as president.

The president denounced continued discrimination by central government, with funding as the main issue

In his speech, Moreno addressed all areas of governance and denounced what he considered to be central government's ongoing discrimination against Andalucia, with regional funding as the main underlying issue. He also made the Deputy PM of the Spanish government, Minister of Finance and chief PSOE representative in Andalucia the target of his criticism. "The Minister of Finance and the parties that support her have abandoned this defence of Andalucia and are betraying the Andalusian people", said Moreno, berating the socialist leader's absence from the debate. He warned that he will raise his voice "against those who look down their noses at us" and that he will tolerate no more concessions to separatism at the expense of Andalucia.

In an undisguised, pre-election atmosphere, the difference in tone between Moreno and the various political groups was striking.

Hostility

The most hostile voice came from the socialist spokesperson, Maria Marquez, who went so far as to accuse the Junta de Andalucia of exercising institutional violence against the Amama association, of having turned Andalusians into clients and the Junta president himself of hiding behind a false facade of cleanliness and moderation. Several members of the socialist opposition group were repeatedly warned by the parliamentary speaker, Jesus Aguirre, for interrupting Moreno during his speech.

Marquez's intervention took place minutes after it became public that Jose Luis Abalos and Koldo Garcia had been imprisoned, a matter to which the Junta president alluded in his response, ironically advising the socialist MPs to remain calm and not succumb to anxiety.

Marquez warned Juanma Moreno that his opportunity "has passed him by", because "Andalucia has proven too much for him" and "needs a new era". In her opinion, Moreno has been "the president of monologues and steamrolling". "Reality has debunked all his promises", asserted Marquez, who also reproached Moreno for having done "whatever he pleased" using his absolute majority.

From the other two left-wing groups, Por Andalucia and Adelante Andalucia, the criticisms also focused on the public healthcare service and the alleged privatisation process of this service, which they believe is being pushed by the Andalusian government.

The most hostile voice came from socialist spokesperson, Maria Marquez, who accused the Junta of institutional violence.

The spokesperson for Por Andalucia, Inmaculada Nieto, asserted that Andalucia is in limbo because Juanma Moreno, "is only dedicated to maintaining tension and noise". In her opinion, this is a consequence of his perceived weakness due to the screening scandal and corruption. She maintained that Moreno is not concerned about such problems and corruption, but rather that the public finds out about them.

Jose Ignacio Garcia, of Adelanta Andalucia, criticised Moreno for having presided over a period in which "he knew nothing about the wrongdoing" and that the purpose of this legislature has always been "not to tarnish Juanma Moreno's pristine image" and not to alter "his flawless smile". Garcia quoted Abraham Lincoln to warn Moreno that "you cannot fool all the people all the time".

Moreno's exchange with Vox spokesperson Manuel Gavira was much more moderate in tone. Unexpectedly, Gavira changed the approach he had been using during recent question time sessions and, unlike the left-wing spokespeople, he focused his main criticism not on healthcare, but on employment figures and immigration, done in a more conciliatory tone than in recent times.

Gavira reproached Moreno for the legacy of his administration, suggesting that he leaves behind "an Andalucia that none of us like at all". He dissected Moreno's government, evaluating it from the perspectives of employment, healthcare, housing, corruption, political mistrust and illegal immigration, lamenting that "this is the Andalucia you are bequeathing to our children".
Hector Barbotta Sevilla Friday, 28 November 2025 | Updated 01/12/2025 12:40h. Share

The time in which the Andalusian government devoted its greatest efforts to dealing with the blows it received from the serious crisis in the breast cancer screening programme is over. The president of the Junta, Juanma Moreno, has taken advantage of the debate on the state of the Community, the last of the current legislature, to bid farewell to that stage and open a new one in which he has gone on the offensive. The goal of this new era is the next regional elections, the date of which is still unknown.

Since the screening crisis broke out at the end of September, the opposition on both sides thought they had found for the first time since the political change in Andalusia a gap through which they could begin to pierce the hegemony that Juanma Moreno has managed to build in recent years and which resulted in the absolute majority obtained in 2022. From the left, attributing all the problems of Andalusian healthcare to an alleged process of privatisation of this public service. From Vox, exhibiting the problem as proof that the management capacity that the Popular Party boasts of is a fiction and that its model is identical to that of the Socialist Party, only painted in a different colour.

During these months, the Junta's narrative was limited to announcing the measures adopted to tackle the crisis, from an initial shock plan to the announcement that the healthcare system would be turned around like a sock.

On Thursday, however, Moreno showed that the defensive phase is over and that he has gone on the attack. The road to the polls will be marked by an unequivocal vindication of the management carried out during all these years. In all areas, but also in health. The Andalusian government feels that the opposition has missed its chance.

Date

The date of the community debate was announced by the government spokeswoman on the same day that the 'Mascarillas case', which involves the leadership of the PP in Almeria, broke out in Almeria, a sign that Moreno had no intention of hiding in the face of this affair either.

In his opening speech, Moreno boasted about his seven years at the head of the Junta.

As part of this strategy, instead of tiptoeing around health, the issue that has caused him the most headaches, he made it a central part of his speech. First, to claim the hundred new health infrastructures built during his term of office, the vaccination schedule (one of the most extensive in Spain), the extension of screening programmes, investment in oncology equipment, the implementation of new systems for cancer treatment and the reduction in surgical waiting lists, four times longer than those experienced in Spain. And also, to refer to the crisis in breast cancer screening and to ensure that this programme, with the response given by the Junta, has been clearly reinforced "with more services, more aid and more sensitivity".

Outright lie

The president also referred to the accusations of privatisation of this service launched by the left to assure that it is "a categorical and categorical lie, a great swindle".

His first speech, which lasted two hours, was a profuse assessment of his management of the Junta de Andalucia, in which he did not refer exclusively to the current year or the current term of office, but to the almost seven years he has been president.

The president denounced continued discrimination by the government, with funding as a major issue.

In his speech, the president addressed all areas of management and denounced what he considered to be the government's continued discrimination against Andalusia, with regional funding as the main issue and the vice-president of the government, finance minister and socialist candidate in Andalusia as the target of criticism. "The Minister of Finance and the parties that support her have abandoned this defence of Andalusia and are betraying the Andalusians", said Moreno, who reproached the absence of the Socialist leader in the debate and warned that he will raise his voice "against those who look down on us" and that he will not accept any more concessions to separatism against Andalusia.

In an undisguised pre-election atmosphere, the difference in tone of Moreno's confrontations with the different groups was striking.

Hostility

The most hostile was the Socialist spokesperson, Maria Marquez, who went so far as to accuse the Junta de Andalucia of exercising institutional violence against the Amama association and of having turned Andalusians into clients, and the president of hiding behind a false facade of being clean and moderate. Different members of the Socialist Group were repeatedly warned by the president of the Parliament, Jesus Aguirre, for interrupting Moreno during his speech.

Marquez's intervention took place minutes after it became known that Jose Luis Abalos and Koldo Garcia had entered prison, a matter to which the president of the Junta alluded in his response, ironically advising the Socialist MPs to remain calm and not to let themselves be overcome by anguish.

Marquez warned Juanma Moreno that his opportunity "has passed", because "Andalusia has become too big for him" and "needs a new era". In her opinion, Moreno has been "the president of the monologue and the roller". "Reality has dismantled all his promises", said the socialist spokeswoman, who also reproached Moreno for having done "whatever he wanted" using his absolute majority.

The other two left-wing groups, Por Andalucia and Adelante Andalucia, also criticised the health service and the alleged process of privatisation of this service which, in their opinion, is being promoted by the Andalusian government.

The most hostile was socialist spokesperson Maria Marquez, who accused the Junta of institutional violence.

The spokesperson for Por Andalucia, Inmaculada Nieto, assured that Andalusia is in suspense because Juanma Moreno, "is only dedicated to maintaining tension and noise". In her opinion, this is a consequence of the fact that he sees himself in a weak position due to the crisis of the sieves and corruption. He assured that Moreno is not concerned about the problems and corruption, but rather that the citizens find out about them.

Jose Ignacio Garcia, of Adelanta Andalucia, reproached Moreno for having led an administration in which "he knew nothing of the bad" and that the purpose of this legislature has always been "not to stain Juanma Moreno's spotless suit" and not to alter "the profident smile". Garcia quoted Lincoln to warn Moreno that "you can't fool everyone all the time".

Moreno's exchange with Vox spokesman Manuel Gavira was much more moderate in tone. Unexpectedly, Gavira changed the register he had been using during recent control sessions and, unlike the left-wing spokespersons, did not focus his main criticisms on health, but rather on employment data and immigration, and also in a tone that sounded more conciliatory than in recent times.

Manuel Gavira, reproached Moreno for the inheritance of his administration, as he leaves "an Andalusia that we do not like at all". He broke down his administration, evaluating it from the perspective of employment, health care, housing, corruption and political mistrust and illegal immigration, to lament that "this is the Andalusia that you are going to leave to our children".
Photo: https://t.me/GeneralStaffZSU

The Saratov Oil Refinery was struck once again, along with a drone storage site and several air defense facilities at the Saki airfield, areas where enemy personnel are concentrated, and fuel and lubricant depots in the temporarily occupied territories of Donetsk and Luhansk regions, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported on its Telegram channel Friday.

"As part of the effort to reduce the military and economic potential of the Russian aggressor, on the night of November 28, units of the Ukrainian Defense Forces struck the Saratov Oil Refinery in Saratov region of the Russian Federation. The plant produces over 20 types of petroleum products, including gasoline, fuel oil, diesel fuel, industrial sulfur, and others. It is used to meet the needs of the Russian occupation army," the message reads.

According to reports, a series of explosions were recorded, followed by a fire in the target area. The attack results are being clarified.

"A UAV storage site at the Saki airfield (Novofedorivka, temporarily occupied territory of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea) was also hit. According to preliminary information, several air defense systems at the airfield were hit, including Pantsir-S1 and TOR-M2 systems. After the enemys air defenses were suppressed, the hangar where the enemy Orion and Forpost drones were stored was destroyed. The Ukrainian Defense Forces also struck an enemy command and control center and a KamAZ military truck. The extent of the damage is being determined," the General Staff reported.

Additionally, enemy manpower concentration areas and fuel and lubricant depots in Donetsk and Luhansk regions were hit. The results are being clarified.

On November 14, the General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces reported the destruction of the enemy naval base Novorossiysk in Krasnodar Krai, an oil refinery in Saratov region of the Russian Federation, and a fuel and lubricant storage site near Engels in Saratov region.
TONY BRYANT Friday, 28 November 2025, 16:43 Share

Lovers of Andalucia's Arabic legacy are rarely disappointed when searching for an ideal weekend escapade, as most locations in the region will boast a wealth of Moorish architecture, monumental sites and delightful palaces. Almocita, in the province of Almeria, stands out not only for its spectacular Islamic architecture, but also for its abundance of urban art. The village lies within the Sierra Nevada national park, between the Sierra Nevada and the Sierra de Gador mountain ranges. Its Arabic name, al-moaycata, derives from the Arabic al-mawgata, meaning 'place in the middle', a reference to its location between the villages of Beires and Padules. Located at an altitude of 834 metres above sea level and 54 kilometres from the provincial capital, the silk industry was of great importance in the Middle Ages, due to its abundance of large silkworm farms.

This quiet and unassuming village holds within its historic centre the best-preserved Moorish architecture in the province, while the words of wise Moorish and Andalusian literary figures adorn the walls of the streets.

With a population of just 210 (INE 2024), this beautiful village in the Alpujarra area of Almeria is full of colour and life and has become a perfect destination for art and literary lovers.

Poetry routes

Those with a passion for poetry and prose can follow the specially marked routes through the historic centre, where one will also find the Jewish quarter. This old district retains a unique charm, with typical houses with balconies overflowing with plants, and inviting cobbled streets that lead to a picturesque plaza. Here you'll find the Almouseum open-air museum, which features portraits that reflect the history of village life. Along with phrases, verses and illustrations, visitors can admire numerous colourful murals of nature, traditions and customs typical of the area. They can also try their luck by spinning the 'wheel of love' in the picturesque central square.

Zoom The facades of many of the buildings are adorned with poetry. SUR

Almocita's Arab origins are evident in its street layout and whitewashed houses, which transports visitors back to the Middle Ages. The narrow streets and corners steeped in history have become a cultural landmark, primarily due to the abundance of urban art.

The parish church of our lady of mercy was built on the site of a former mosque. It was rebuilt in the 17th century after being burned down in 1568 during the Moorish rebellion. The main chapel retains a Moorish-style roof structure with decorative molding, a characteristic of the Christian era, when the construction of a parish church focused on the Mudejar style.

Of particular interest is the fountain of the three spouts, one of the oldest fountains in the Alpujarra region of Almeria. Constructed from large limestone blocks, the fountain is fed by a cistern that dates from the late 13th and early 14th centuries - the Nasrid period. The fountain's function was to guarantee the water supply for the population and to ensure ritual purification before prayers.

There is also a wash house that dated to the Nasrid period, although it was renovated in the 20th century, when it continued to be used by the women of the village to do their washing, and to gossip.

The Espenuelas reservoir and viewpoint, which occupies the spot where the neighbourhood of Espenuelas once stood, offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Here one will find an enormous oil lamp, the Guinness World Record holder for the largest oil lamp in 2014. This lamp highlights an important element of life in the village in the past, before the advent of electric lighting.
Marina Martinez Friday, 28 November 2025, 09:49 | Updated 10:01h. Share

Market-fresh cuisine, respect for the product and a strong sense of Malaga and Andalusian soul define Cristina Canovas and Diego Aguilar's approach at Palodu. These have always been their guiding principles. Almost 12 years after opening its doors, even more so.

This is because the project for this couple from Malaga, both inside and outside of the kitchen, has evolved from a modest gastropub to the heights of haute cuisine, solidifying its position since moving from Teatinos to Centro district. There, on Calle Sebastian Souviron, they invite diners to stop and take a break in the restaurant premises they opened two years ago after a refurb by Lago Interioriza. In an elegant, yet still welcoming atmosphere, unpretentious and with an open kitchen, they offer two menus that change according to season and market availability. They reinterpret traditional recipes with a contemporary twist, combining a healthy dose of technique with a pinch of the exotic.

The short, tasting menu, called Alcazul, is priced at 110 euros (with a wine pairing option for 65 euros) and includes a sequence of appetisers consisting of green gazpacho with yuzu kosho (Japanese condiment made with yuzu and chilli pepper), corn crisps with chicken and black miso and a herb taco with snapper, nori (seaweed) and tobiko (flying fish roe). The main courses feature mackerel with ajoblanco and codium seaweed, beef tongue with kefir tartare, white prawn with chicken and fermented lemon, roasted pepper with caramel and spring onion, tempura with egg yolk and pork jowl, lamb with celeriac and, of course, a classic that has been their staple dish for years - red mullet with gazpachuelo. For dessert, there is tomato with goat's cheese and sponge cake with yuzu, miso and palodu (liquorice root, also the restaurant's name).

The longer tasting menu, called Palodu, is priced at 130 euros (with wine pairing for 75 euros) and features the same dishes as Alcazul, but with two more dishes added to the main courses: leek with honey and ash, plus hake with orange and Alorena olives, another dish that evokes Malaga's roots. On the sweet side, the Palodu menu also has an additional creation to tempt the palate: chocolate, saffron and orange salt.

Cristina Canovas and Diego Aguilar together form the visible face and driving force behind Palodu but, just as the restaurant has grown, so has the team. Now, Sergio Camacho joins them in the kitchen and Nacho Marana and Ana Canovas, Cristina's sister, are at the helm in the dining room. Ana gradually honed her skills until, at La Consula, she realised she was on the right path. Today, she strives to ensure customer satisfaction, both through the service and a wine cellar with which she aims to surprise diners with original labels. Keeping it in the family.
Cooking for the community after the 2024 floods Tomasz Radomski and Kasia Radomska moved to Benamargosa in February 2024 and have won the locals over with their culinary skills

JENNIE RHODES Friday, 28 November 2025, 17:40 Share

Tomasz Radomski and Kasia Radomska hadn't lived in Benamargosa long before large parts of the village were flooded during the 'Dana' of 13 November 2024. It was one of the worst affected villages in Malaga province and businesses and homes were severely damaged when the Benamargosa river burst its banks.

However, the community came together with the huge clean-up operation and it gave Tomasz, 45, and Kasia, 44, an opportunity to get involved, get to know their neighbours and do what they love best: "feed people".

The couple are originally from Poland and before coming to Spain had lived in Scotland, where they were involved in the catering business for 20 years. Tomasz is a trained chef and when they decided to move to Spain, they were keen to continue working in the sector they were familiar with. Kasia explains, "We were both helping with cleaning. Thomas works super fast, so very quickly he gained the nickname 'loco Polaco'" (Crazy Pole).

She highlights a cultural difference in the way that work stopped at 2pm for lunch: "He couldn't get used to stopping whatever he was doing at 2pm because it was time for food and cafe con anis," she laughs.

Then came the idea of helping out by doing what they do best: "One of our favourite places in the village, El Pub, was badly damaged during the flood. Volunteers were working nonstop, cold and exhausted, so we made hot meals and coffee for everyone. It was a small gesture, but it meant a lot to the people here. It was the moment we truly felt welcomed into the village." Kasia adds, "Food connects people - that's what keeps us going. Feeding people makes us happy."

The couple had moved to Benamargosa in February 2024, having decided to leave Scotland for warmer climes: "After years of Scottish weather, we wanted a warmer, happier lifestyle, somewhere we could cook outdoors, still use fresh local produce and enjoy a slower pace. Andalucia felt perfect," they explain.

They add that while they were looking for a place to settle, "Benamargosa won our hearts straight away. The people, the tranquillity, the mangoes, the community... it felt like a place where we could build something real. And we did."

Tomasz and Kasia still have friends and relatives in Poland and Scotland whom they visit regularly and who come to see them in Benamargosa, including their 25-year-old daughter, Aleksandra, who stayed in the UK and works as a teacher of History and Politics.

Scotland

Kasia explains that Aleksandra was just four and a half when the family moved from Poland to Scotland and says they ended up there "completely by chance" through a friend who was working in Edinburgh at the time.

When the friend returned to Poland for a visit, the group talked about the possibility of Tomasz "going and earning some extra money". Three weeks later he was there and Kasia says she and Aleksandra joined nine months later.

Now they provide Sunday lunches at El Pub, which is Spanish-owned and has reopened since the devastating flood. They get a good crowd of foreign and Spanish diners every week: "We wanted to do something for local people and since we know everyone at El Pub we thought something like a Sunday lunch club to bring our community together would be a good thing to do. There is a mixture of people - Spanish and foreign, almost half and half."

Through their catering company, Taste of Heaven, they have also started providing food for community and charity events in the Axarquia, including the Axarquia Business Network event in November and the British Benevolent Fund fundraiser happening in Torre del Mar in December.

"It's an honour to cook for charities and community events. This is what we love most about Andalucia: people actually care," Kasia says.

Tomasz and Kasia say they "feel settled" and part of the community here. "Benamargosa feels like the place we were meant to find," they agree.
TONY BRYANT Friday, 28 November 2025, 17:17 Share

Nicaraguan poet Ruben Dario (1867-1916) is widely regarded as the person who initiated the Spanish-language literary movement known as modernismo (modernism) that flourished at the end of the 19th century. Dario had a great and lasting influence on 20th-century Spanish-language literature, which is why numerous streets, squares and parks have been named in his honour in cities like Madrid, Seville and Cadiz. He was also honoured in Malaga city in 1963, when a bronze bust was installed in Parque de Malaga .

Born in Metapa (now Ciudad Dario), Nicaragua, besides being a poet, novelist, essayist, chronicler and cultural critic, Dario was a diplomat.

In June 1892, Nicaraguan President Roberto Sacasa appointed him to serve on the commission representing Nicaragua in Madrid during the celebrations of the fourth centenary of the discovery of the New World.

Known as the 'prince of Castilian letters', the poet travelled to Europe again in 1899 when he learned that the La Nacion newspaper needed a correspondent in Spain to inform about the situation in the country after the devastating effects of the Spanish-American War. These chronicles expressed his profound sympathy towards Spain, and, despite the state of despair he witnessed, his confidence in the country's revival.

Zoom Bronze bust in Malaga. SUR

Dario went back to Madrid in 1905 to represent his country in border negotiations with Honduras, a process in which King Alfonso XIII of Spain had agreed to serve as mediator.

Between late 1907 and early 1909, he served as Nicaragua's ambassador to Spain, a posting he received despite the initial reservations of the Nicaraguan government due to his fondness for alcohol. It was during this period that he mixed in circles of young poets and writers who defended modernism, among them, many who would become important figures in Spanish literature like Juan Ramon Jimenez and Juan Valera.
Share

The scarcest of the six species of thrush breeding in western Europe, the ring ouzel's global range is virtually confined to the Western Palearctic (Hagemeijer & Blair 1997). There are three geographically separated subspecies, all of which are migratory. The nominate race T. t. torquatus breeds in upland areas of Britain, Ireland and Fennoscandia, birds migrating to southern Spain and north-west Africa in the winter (Cramp 1988). Farther south, T. t. alpestris breeds in montain areas from Spain east to Romania, with high densities in the Pyrenees, Massif Central, Alps and Carpathians. In Eastern Europe, birds of this race mostly winter at lower elevations in the south of their breeding range, but western populations of T. t. alpestris appear to winter in the same general areas as T. t. torquatus (Hagemeijer & Blair 1997). A third race T. t. amicorum occurs in Asia Minor, breeding in Turkey and the Caucasus and wintering mainly in Iran and Turkmenistan (Cramp 1988).

Most thrushes are forest birds, and even those species inhabiting more open habitats rarely occur where no trees are found (Clement & Hathway 2000). Ring ouzels are therefore unusual in that they occupy open moorland, fell and mountain habitat where trees are usually sparse or stunted, and often absent. Wintering ouzels are normally found above 800 m in Andalucia but have been recorded down to sea level during times of migration. Mountain areas are particularly frequented here and especially where there are fruiting Hawthorn trees/bushes, a much-favoured fruit for wintering Ring ouzel in Andalucia. Only two of the three subspecies are found in the region, T.t.torquatus and T.t.alpestris; there have been no accepted records of T.t.amicorum here.

i

www.andaluciabirdsociety.org

To see these beautiful thrushes in winter isn't difficult; it is more a case of visiting the right areas. The mountain ranges are the main wintering quarters and migration stopover points, so a journey to higher elevations is a must-do activity during January and February to see them. Some of the most popular sites are Sierra de las Nieves, Sierra Nevada, Loja, Grazalema and my favourite site, Llanos de Libar. Fruiting hawthorn, rosehips and of course standing water are attractive for this species, so try locating areas where these combine to act as a starting point for observing individuals and small flocks.

The easiest site I know is the water trough at Puerta de las Palomas, the high pass between Zahara de la Sierra and Grazalema. A little time spent at this site is sure to produce results, added to which there are other great species to see here such as Alpine Accentor, Siskin, Fieldfare and other target wintering birds.

Ring ouzel migration here in autumn normally begins in September, but in low numbers and usually reported from lowland areas. The main period is October; when large numbers pass through on their way to the Atlas Mountains in Morocco, birds arriving at more local wintering areas will often join these migrants. Those birds remaining here for the winter will often gather in loose and nomadic flocks, sometimes becoming elusive as they forage in high and inaccessible areas. Late dispersal is notable as haw berries become scarce. Our wintering birds tend to leave us by March drifting northwards to their breeding grounds. In years of scarce food sources, they can depart as early as February, though this is infrequent. Again, migration in spring tends to produce lowland records, so visits to coastal areas can produce the odd bird.
The weekend before 25-year-old Concepcion (Concha for her family and friends) was reportedly murdered by her partner in her father's house in Campillos, she was in Martos (Jaen), where she had strong ties and friendships, as that's where her mother is from. She told her friends about the issue she was facing with Ismael, who she had just broken up with: despite their separation, he was refusing to leave her father's house in Campillos.

As several friends have reported, Concha had previously tried to help him lead a better life and leave behind his "vices". That is why they went to work in the hospitality industry in Barcelona a while back. "She was a waitress and he was a kitchen assistant, but he was later promoted to official cook," Concha's friends said.

They knew that Ismael often argued with Concha, who used the nickname 'Barbie' on social media. Their relationship had been on-and-off for years. Despite those arguments, however, Concha's close circle never expected that he would take her life.

Both Concha and Ismael had previously been in the VioGen system for the protection of domestic violence victims. She had reported an ex-partner and he had been reported by an ex-girlfriend. However, there were no reports between the two of them.

Although Ismael did not spend much time in Campillos, sources close to him have said that he was involved in an altercation with an ex-convict linked to "drug-dealing" matters, in which the Local Police had to intervene.

'He took away a person who was loved by so many, a loyal friend'

Hours after news of Concha's death broke out, social media was flooded with photos of 'Barbie'. Her friends and loved ones expressed their love and pain. "He took away a person who was loved by many, a loyal friend, a person with a heart and a smile of gold," one of the posts reads.

Others called for justice, hoping that Ismael would bear the full weight of the law. "How can there be people so cruel and shameless (...) I hope that karma repays you for what you have done to her."

Concha is the sixth fatal victim of gender-based violence in the province of Malaga so far this year, which has had the highest figure since records have been collected.

Make-up and tattoo artist and waitress

Concha lived most of her life with her mother in Granada, where she trained as a make-up artist and learned to tattoo. She also had other jobs, one of them as a waitress at well-known electronic music club Industrial Copera. Her former colleagues also took to social media to express their shock, sorrow and condolences. "The memory of Concha, of her professionalism and qualities will always remain with us. Her absence leaves a huge void and her memory drives us to continue defending a society free of domestic violence," Industrial Copera's Instagram profile reads.

The 016 telephone line attends to cases of gender-based violence in 52 different languages 24 hours a day. Calls are free and cannot be traced in the phone bill. Reports can also be made, whether by the victim herself, relatives or witnesses, via the email address 016-online@igualdad.gob.es. The service can also be contacted through WhatsApp on 600 000 016.

In an emergency, you can call 112, the National Police (091), the Local Police (092) or the Guardia Civil (062). If making a phone call is not possible, you can use the ALERTCOPS app, which allows you to send a signal with geolocation directly to the police.
Eugenio Cabezas Friday, 28 November 2025, 18:17 Share

Spain's Policia Nacional has recovered seven social housing units (VPO) in the Pueblo Nuevo de la Axarquia area of Velez-Malaga, popularly known as Carabanchel, on the eastern Costa del Sol, which had been converted into laboratories for the intensive cultivation of marijuana.

'Operation Ordago' took place on Thursday 27 November and resulted in the arrest of eleven people for their alleged involvement in crimes against public health and electricity fraud, as reported by the police force in a statement on Friday.

Officers dismantled eight fully equipped indoor greenhouses for the accelerated growth of cannabis sativa, seizing 2,711 marijuana plants in advanced stages of flowering, as well as 415 grams of hashish, two precision scales, and 11,095 euros in cash. They also located three shotguns, two replica pistols and more than 500 cartridges, among other items found during the searches.

The operation was carried out along with Local Police with support from the canine unit and air support team as well as the Andalusian housing and rehabilitation agency (AVRA) and technical staff from an electrical company.

The latter confirmed that the homes were illegally connected to the grid through clandestine connections. The now-recovered homes will be renovated by the relevant authorities to restore their use as social housing.

In some cases, in addition to intensive cultivation, the apartments were also being used as drug sales points according to investigators. The eleven suspects are being tried in a court in Velez-Malaga.
Juan Cano Malaga Friday, 28 November 2025, 16:31 Share

The Guardia Civil have arrested one man suspected of stabbing to death a 60-year-old resident of the village of Yunquera, in the Sierra de las Nieves in the province of Malaga.

The incident took place in the early afternoon of Monday, 24 November. A relative found the victim's body over a pool of blood in the latter's home. Although he immediately alerted the emergency services, the medical team could not save the injured man.

The deceased worked in construction, although he was on sick leave at the time of his death, according to his close circle.

The body had stab wounds, including one to the neck, and the autopsy confirmed that it was a homicide.

A man of Spanish nationality reportedly turned himself in on Friday, 28 November. According to sources, he is also a resident of Yunquera. The Guardia Civil investigation remains open.
Ignacio Lillo Malaga Friday, 28 November 2025, 17:38 Share

The Port of Malaga has welcomed a merchant ship that had been adrift in international waters for ten days. Apparently abandoned by its owner, the ship had to be rescued on Thursday by Capitania Maritima. The Marine I, a Panama-flagged vessel, was in international waters, in the area of the Strait of Gibraltar, and had been adrift, without drinking water, food or fuel. It was carrying 17 crew members who in recent days have suffered from a lack of supplies and breakdowns that put their safety at risk.

According to sources from the Port of Malaga and Capitania Maritima consulted by this newspaper, after several days of monitoring, the Directorate General of the Merchant Navy, together with its Moroccan counterpart, took the decision to tow the ship for the safety of the vessel and the crew, as it had no supplies or provisions. A tug brought it safely into the port of Malaga on Thursday, according to the website Vesselfinder, a real-time ship locator, arriving at 11.54pm. The professionalism of all parties involved in the operation meant that the ship arrived in port without incident and all crew members are well.

The question now is what will happen to the vessel and its crew, whether the owner company will take responsibility for it. The Marine I is a Panama-flagged vessel built in 1994. It is 105 metres long, has a weight of 5,811 tonnes and an overall cargo capacity of 3,978 GT ('Gross Tonnage', a measure of a ship's capacity that quantifies the volume of all the ship's interior spaces). The ship has been renamed several times and is reportedly owned by a Dubai company, so contacts will now be made to try to locate the owners and see if they will take care of their workers and the ship's costs and liabilities. The International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) was aware of the operation and had warned of the plight of the crew on board.
Cristina Vallejo Friday, 28 November 2025, 17:27 Share

Although in recent years China has made large-scale direct investments in all of Spain's regions, on Friday regional minister of the Chinese embassy Qu Xun stated that Andalucia is "the preferred area for Chinese investment". He said this during his participation in the 'Andalusia, the road to the energy of the future: the contribution of China Three Gorges Europe (CTGE) to the European energy transition' event organised by Catedra China and the Vocento group (publisher of Diario SUR) and held at the NH hotel in Malaga.

"This region, especially Malaga province, has launched many strategic initiatives, such as the city of intelligence and energy centres, and it has very favourable conditions to develop in many sectors," the diplomat said. These include activities such as the digital economy, electric vehicles and green energy - areas in which Andalucia connects with the Asian giant.

"We can say that China is a world of energy. Not only do we have an abundance of coal, which is no longer much used, but we are also strongly developing green energy, such as photovoltaic, wind and hydrogen. I believe that Andalucia and Malaga also have an advantage in these sectors. Both sides have a strong desire to intensify these cooperations and share technologies to make Malaga and Andalucia the energy centre of Spain and the whole of Europe," Qu Xun said. "We must not hold back our ambitions and that is why Andalucia needs a strong partner like China," he said.

'Not only do we have an abundance of coal, which is no longer much used, but we are also strongly developing green energy. I believe that Andalucia and Malaga also have an advantage in these sectors'

Representatives of state-owned company China Three Gorges Europe (CTGE) also participated in the event. Regarding CTGE, Qu Xun stated that the "priority" for this global energy giant is the Spanish market, in fact, the entire Iberian Peninsula. He highlighted that "energy is the foundation of industry and of Spain's reindustrialisation" and that "easy access to large-scale energy is a key element for a modern industry".

Zoom

In his speech, the diplomat reviewed the history of economic relations between China and Spain. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Europe and the 20th anniversary of comprehensive strategic relations between China and Spain. "The relations between China and Spain are exemplary: two countries that treat each other with respect, even though they differ in their political system and culture," he said.

He highlighted the shared benefits, among them the business success of the King and Queen of Spain's visit to China. "During that visit, we managed to resolve almost all problems related to access to China and the barriers for Spain's agricultural products," he said.

He also stated that bilateral relations are not exclusively the result of a calculation of benefits, but rather of a friendship that goes back two thousand years, when there were already commercial exchanges between the Roman Empire and the Han dynasty. Relations became stronger in the 18th century and especially in the last 50 years.

"Trade between China and Spain at the beginning was only 20 million dollars, but now it has exceeded 50,000 million," Qu Xun stated. He also acknowledged the trade deficit in exchanges between the two countries. "We have to recognise that there is a big trade gap between China and Spain, but this trade surplus or deficit is a natural product. We are already seeing a lot of direct investment from China to Spain and with this we can reduce these deficits," he said.
The European Commission is closely following the anti-corruption investigations in Ukraine, including the searches of the head of the Office of the President Andriy Yermak, European Commission spokesman Guillaume Mercier said on Friday.

"We have seen the news about todays searches by the National Anti-corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-corruption Prosecutors Office (SAPO). Our position is well known: any investigations show that anti-corruption bodies in Ukraine exist and are able to function. The fight against corruption is a central element of our enlargement package, which defines our common position on this issue. I would like to emphasize that the fight against corruption is a key factor for the countrys accession to the European Union. It requires continuous efforts to ensure a strong capacity to fight corruption and uphold the rule of law," he said, commenting on todays searches by the NABU and SAPO.

Mercier added that "the Commission will continue to closely monitor the situation."
Share

In a case that looks like it could rival the Gurtel corruption scandal in scale and complexity, former Catalan president Jordi Pujol is set to stand trial.

Now 95 and in poor health, Pujol, his seven children and fifteen business people are suspected of illegally amassing a fortune during the 23 years he was premier of Catalonia (1980-2003).

Prosecutors are seeking a nine-year prison sentence for Pujol on charges of money laundering, tax offences, document forgery and illegal association.

In the trial that starts on Monday, which is expected to last well into 2026, they will portray him as Catalonia's version of Vito Corleone - although if the patriarch's found guilty, his ailing condition will probably excuse him from time behind bars.

Pujol's trajectory invites comparison with that of Spain's former king Juan Carlos. Both were key figures in the transition to democracy after Francisco Franco's death in November 1975.

Pujol is also revered in Catalonia for increasing the region's autonomy and championing its language and culture. Yet in old age, both men have been accused of abusing their power and status for personal gain (although the charges against Juan Carlos, now 87, were shelved in 2022).

2014 was a crucial year in the downfall of both men. In June, Juan Carlos abdicated, surrendering to a decline in popularity triggered by a hunting trip to Botswana in 2012. The following month, Pujol made the shock announcement that his family held an undeclared fortune in Andorra - although he claimed it was an inheritance from his banker father Florenci (the hours leading up to this revelation are the focus of a recently-released film called Parenostre).

That year was also eventful for Pujol's secessionist heirs. In November, Catalan president Artur Mas held an independence referendum, modelled on that which had taken place in Scotland two months earlier (whereas 80% of Catalans opted to divorce Madrid, 55% of Scots voted to remain part of the UK).

Mas was fined 36,500 euros and banned from public office for two years for holding the vote, which had been declared illegal in advance by Spain's constitutional court.

Juan Carlos's downfall was relatively fast, but Pujol's has been a protracted affair. He wasn't indicted by Spain's National Court until 2021, when the investigating judge said that there was no evidence to prove that the family fortune came from Pujol's wealthy father.

The verdict of the upcoming trial is not expected to be made public until 2027. Many of Pujol's supporters will no doubt be hoping that he won't be around to witness the fallout from a guilty verdict. But like Juan Carlos, the former champion of Catalan identity has long been a fallen idol.
Share

'Iwant to move to Switzerland." So announced one of my students - mid-twenties, degree freshly printed, employment history blanker than Aristotle's tabula rasa.

"Oh?" I asked. "Drawn by mountains? Neutrality? Chocolate?"

"No. They don't pay taxes there."

Now, I had heard many legends about Switzerland: that mowing the lawn on Sunday is treated as a crime against humanity and that standing up to pee after 10pm is an acoustic felony. But no taxes?

"The situation here is unlivable. We're suffering the worst government in 80 years." At this, my internal alarm bells began to ring. I sensed where we were going, backward, historically speaking, and without a seatbelt.

You see, in today's Spain, a curious myth has seeped into the groundwater: that "under Franco we lived better". Astonishingly, a chunk of Spaniards under 24 hold the view that a cheerless, censorious dictatorship, the political equivalent of poison ivy, was a golden age of prosperity and serenity.

It's a sort of reverse Disneyland: the older generations remember the repression, but the younger ones queue up for the roller coaster.

Why this retrograde romance?

Mostly because historical education has been treated like an illegitimate child: partially acknowledged but never invited to dinner. Most young people know more about the Romans than about the collapse of civil liberties under Paquito Rana. Nuance, that fragile bird, does not survive long on TikTok, where authoritarianism is now repackaged as a lifestyle aesthetic.

The economic frustration is real. A generation drowning in precarious jobs, unaffordable rent and the delightful prospect of living with their parents until cremation is understandably cranky. But the real conversation should be about - not the myth that life was "better under Franco", but why democracy still struggles to prove that it's better.

And into that discontent strolls the mythmaker: "Back then, at least there was stability." Ah yes... the stability of having your press censored and your politics outlawed. It's the kind of stability one finds in graveyards. To be fair, it's comforting to imagine that someone, somewhere had things under control. But the idea that a regime built on repression, firing squads and compulsory obedience was Spain's golden age requires the sort of imagination usually reserved for sociopaths and certain political parties.

History doesn't repeat, but it certainly hires a good impersonator. And in Spain, the impersonator has been busy convincing the young that the past was a banquet and the present a famine, when in fact the banquet consisted mostly of censorship, poverty, and girls being told their purpose was to find a husband to submit to.

If democracy seems messy, that's because it is. Freedom always is. Tyranny is much tidier, nothing clutters the public square like opposing opinions.

So back to Switzerland. Dreams of tax-less bliss, alpine calm and an escape from Spain's alleged apocalypse. I was tempted to tell him the truth: that in Switzerland, you can be fined for taking a selfie with a fish you plan to release back into the lake.

Imagine that, a nation so orderly it protects the emotional well-being of trout. Yet even there, he would still have to pay taxes. And even the fish have more rights than life under Franco.
"Offers this good won't wait" is often the attractive slogan used by companies before Black Friday to encourage people to kick off the Christmas shopping season. There are, however, many price traps, as Spain's Ministry of Consumer Affairs has detected.

Minister Pablo Bustinduy's department has fined seven companies a total of 350,000 euros for false discounts during the 2023 campaign. The misleading practice consists in increasing the price a few days before Black Friday just to advertise the original price as a discount.

The ministry has published the names of five of the seven investigated companies: Carrefour, PC Componentes, Mediamarkt, Notino Italia and Gestaweb 2020. According to the law, the price of any given product can be considered discounted if it's not higher than the lowest price advertised in the last 30 days, which should appear as crossed out in the promotion label. The companies in question have been sanctioned because they raised the price one week before Black Friday 2023 and then advertised the usual price, without an additional discount, as the offer.

Notino Italia has been fined 110,000 euros; Gestaweb 2020 100,000 euros; Media Markt 25,000 euros; Carrefour 21,500 euros; and PC Componentes 1,500 euros.

Ongoing research

A few days ago, Bustinduy reported that his department had launched this year's campaign to control and monitor possible fraudulent discounts by large companies over the Black Friday season, including subsequent Cyber Monday sales.

Consumer Affairs will use technological tools to detect practices such as prior price increases to simulate a discount, as well as other commercial strategies considered irregular: prices that progressively increase, pressure tactics to encourage purchases, price variations depending on the moment or even personalisation of the amount according to the consumer's data.
M. Balin / M. Saiz-Pardo MADRID. Friday, 28 November 2025, 10:44 Share

Jose Luis Abalos, former minister of transport, and his trusted ex-adviser, Koldo Garcia, have been remanded in custody without bail, as part of the ongoing investigation in the 'Koldo Case'. This scandal centres on alleged corruption among these former top members of the PSOE party and their associates.

On Thursday, a Supreme Court judge ruled that both men now posed an "extreme" risk of fleeing, increasing the severity of the case as prosecutors had recently requested sentences of up to 24 and 19 years for the pair. Abalos, who served as minister from 2018 to 2021, and Garcia, who with hours of secret recordings was responsible for revealing the extent of the alleged offences, face charges of criminal organisation, bribery, influence peddling, embezzlement and misuse of confidential information. These accusations stem from the awarding of contracts to a company linked to another suspect, Victor de Aldama.

The ruling follows concerns expressed by the prosecutor's office that argued that the evidence against both men was overwhelming and that their chances of evading justice had grown significantly. Abalos, who remains a member of parliament despite being suspended and now unable to attend, is expected to lose his salary. He has not yet renounced his seat.

Abalos arrived at the Supreme Court on Thursday with only a small backpack, the belongings he would take to prison. Garcia, also facing charges, attended the court later that day. The investigation has been under way for some time and the first part of the trial is expected in the coming months.
Ignacio Cabanes Valencia Friday, 28 November 2025, 15:49 Share

A mop and a cushion, those were the weapons he had used to end the life of his 68-year-old mother, who suffered from mental illness, in March 2023, in the home they shared in the Valencian district of San Marcelino. Still, looking beyond the method used to kill his mother, first striking her with the mop handle and then suffocating her with a cushion once she was defenceless on the floor, this case of parricide reveals, yet again, the failure to detect in time a ticking time bomb in the domain of mental health issues, one that was about to explode.

Javier F. S., aged 37 at the time of committing the crime, confessed this Thursday to having killed his mother because he was "emotionally overwhelmed" by the care she required due to the residual schizophrenia she had been suffering from for years. The provincial court of Valencia sentenced the son to 15 years in prison for the murder of a victim who was particularly vulnerable due to her age and illness. Under normal circumstances, this crime would carry a sentence of life imprisonment with the possibility of parole, but he was granted a partial exemption for the mitigating circumstance of his own diminished mental capacity.

The trial by public jury was scheduled to begin next week but, after all parties had agreed to a plea deal, the hearing was held this Thursday. So, no need for jury selection and the sentence was handed down verbally ('in voce'). In addition to the 15-year prison sentence, he was given five years of probation and ordered to pay his brother 45,000 euros in damages.

The parricide (the killing of a close relative, usually a parent) took place at the family home, located in Calle San Marcelino in Valencia, where the now-convicted man cared for his 68-year-old mother, who was undergoing long-term treatment for residual schizophrenia. The ruling does not specify the exact time the accused attacked his mother, some time between 3:00pm on 23 March 2023 and 1:00am the following day, although forensic experts did narrow it down to 4:00pm as the closest possible time of death.

Thus, with mother and son alone in the house, the defendant struck his mother on the head with the hollow, metal handle of a mop, causing a haematoma with swelling in both temporal regions and the left occipital region. He then threw her to the living room floor, without her being able to resist.

The oral judgement establishes that it was a sudden and unexpected attack and there was also significant disparity between the aggressor and his victim due to their respective physical conditions. In fact, in addition to her advanced age, the woman weighed 48 kilos and was 1.60 metres tall.

After hitting her with the mop and while she lay defenceless on the floor, he took a cushion and suffocated her to death. After killing his mother, the son went into her bedroom, located next to the living room where she lay dead, and lay down on her bed. After one o'clock in the morning, his brother returned home and discovered the woman's lifeless body.

Psychiatric report

The defendant suffered from an affective disorder with anxious and depressive symptoms and "an emotional outburst stemming from his mother and the care she required, aggravated by a recent break-up he'd suffered", according to the court ruling.

The forensic experts from the psychiatry unit of the Institute of Legal Medicine in Valencia had observed borderline traits in the parricide that affected his volitional capacity and understanding of his actions. However, he was deemed to not be suffering from a psychiatric illness that could be considered a determining factor in the crime he had committed, hence the submission of only a partial defence being considered.

The defendant initially faced a 25-year prison sentence but, following the plea deal agreed between the defence counsel, the private prosecution and the public prosecutor's office, his sentence was reduced to 15 years in prison and an additional five years of supervised release. As part of civil liability, the convicted man must compensate his brother with 45,000 euros for the murder of their mother.
Article November 28, 2025

Consolidation of Data-Sharing Rules in the Digital Omnibus

The business community has called for the new digital regulatory framework to be clarified, simplified, and made more consistent. Companies should not face sanctions when it is unclear what compliance entails, writes Carola Ekblad, digital policy expert.

Carola Ekblad, digital policy expert. Photo : Stefan Tell

The European Commission has proposed a digital omnibus package, incorporating some recommendations from the Confederation of Swedish Enterprise.

Key proposals include making the Data Act the central framework for data sharing, while repealing the Data Governance Act, the Open Data Directive, and the Platform-to-Business Regulation, integrating relevant provisions into the Data Act.



For companies applying the regulation, this consolidation will involve short-term transition costs, such as updating systems, training staff, and revising procedures. In the long term, however, a more uniform and simpler regulatory structure will reduce administrative burdens and improve harmonisation of legal terminology.

Integrating the Data Governance Act and the Open Data Directive into the Data Act could also reduce administrative burdens by cutting down on parallel reporting requirements and supervisory processes.

Simplifications in the Data Act

The Data Act began to be partially applied in September this year. It constitutes a very complex regulatory framework, making it difficult to gain an overview or predict its application or interpretation.

Codification of Case Law

The Data Act regulates how data from connected products and services should be shared between users, third parties, and manufacturers. If personal data is included in this data, sharing must comply with the GDPR.

The business community has requested clarifications on how the Data Act and GDPR should be applied in parallel. This has partly been addressed through the codification of case law regarding pseudonymised data. This means that information should not be considered personal data for an actor who does not have a reasonable possibility of identifying the individual.

The European Commission will take certain measures aimed at ensuring harmonisation and compliance with the Data Act. Alongside this work, there will be a dedicated legal helpdesk for the Data Act, providing companies with direct support on specific questions regarding the application of the new rules.

Common Specifications When Standards Are Missing

The European Commissions work to ensure harmonisation and compliance with the Data Act has not proceeded in the time or scope the market requires. A reasonable omnibus proposal would therefore be to postpone the application of the Data Act. Instead, it is proposed that the European Commission be granted the authority to develop common specifications when harmonised standards are missing or delayed.

The proposal may partly contribute to clarifications and thereby serve as a sort of safety valve when standards have not been developed in the time or scope the market needs. However, allowing the European Commission to determine common specifications without an inclusive process could, at worst, result in documents that do not meet the quality required by companies. The proposal could also risk reducing the global relevance of EU standards if the industry is not sufficiently involved.

Measures Against Data Leakage Outside the EU

The European Commission recognises that the rules in the Data Act are not geopolitically secure and therefore proposes that data holders may refuse to share data with users or third parties if the sharing would pose a high risk of unlawful acquisition, use, or disclosure to a third country.

Strengthening the protection of trade secrets is important. But for a company, it is equally harmful from a competitive standpoint if information ends up with competitors on the domestic market or elsewhere.

In the rapidly changing geopolitical landscape, protecting trade secrets is increasingly important for companies. Trade secrets underpinning data-driven products and services play a crucial role in ensuring economic security, resilience, and maintaining our competitive edge on the global stage. The Confederation of Swedish Enterprise maintains that the revision of the Trade Secrets Directive, announced in the 2020 data strategy, should be implemented to improve trade secret protection.

Next Steps

The above outlines some proposals in the digital omnibus. The input from the Confederation of Swedish Enterprise has been partially, but not fully, addressed by the European Commission. An important piece of the puzzle, alongside negotiations on the omnibus proposals, is therefore the announced digital fitness check.

Also read A welcome pause on EU rules for high-risk AI  but companies still have work to do
Alexander Alex Hloderwski, Jr., loved LEGO. He amassed a huge collection of the brightly colored toy bricks in his lifetime, was a member of the Lego Users of Central New York (LUCNY), and was among the first shoppers at Syracuses LEGO Store when it opened in 2019 at Destiny USA.

But more than anything, Hldoerwski loved sharing LEGO.

He built his own creations and displayed them at events around Central New York, like the annual Syracuse Model Railroad Club Show. He also instilled a lifelong appreciation for the joy of LEGO in his children, Alexander and Adrienne.

So Hloderwski, who died in May at age 72, wouldve appreciated his kids decision to sell most of his LEGO collection to Wapi Bricks, a LEGO-reseller toy store in Wisconsin.

My dad was a huge LEGO enthusiast, a lifetime creative obsessed with it," Adrienne told syracuse.com | The Post-Standard in a phone interview. More than anything, he loved LEGO and was never afraid to be himself and to show his passion and share it with other people. I feel so lucky.

Wapi Bricks owner Zach Zuleger and his brother Isaiah flew out to Syracuse to see Hloderwskis treasures in person. They shared a video of themselves exploring Hloderwskis home, which had multiple rooms filled entirely with LEGO, including the attic, basement, living room, dining room and Adriennes childhood bedroom.

Zuleger told syracuse.com he found out about the collection when Adrienne contacted them about a Facebook post seeking every LEGO Star Wars minifigure ever made.

One phone call later, we knew it was special and worth the trip, said Zuleger, who noted hes previously traveled to cities like Baltimore before in search of rare LEGO pieces and sets.

Zuleger gushed over Hloderwskis alternate Eiffel Tower design, well-organized cases of minifigures (from purple Spacemen and Star Wars Poggles to Pharaohs Quest mummies) and a retired, never-opened Ghostbusters firehouse set worth over $1,000.

Oh my gosh, Zuleger said in the video. It just keeps going.

When Toys R Us went (out of business), he bought every LEGO in the store, Adriennes Uncle Bill said of Hloderwski.

The excitement caught on quickly. The video was posted on Thanksgiving Day and went viral, amassing 6.5 million views in 24 hours on Instagram.

Zuleger bought most of the collection for $165,000. He filled up an entire U-Haul truck with boxes of LEGO toys, and thanked Adrienne for agreeing to part with them at a discount.

Alex Hloderwski of Syracuse, N.Y., was a lifelong collector and builder of LEGO sets. He loved creating his own designs and especially loved trains, his daughter Adrienne said. (Provided photo) Provided photo

Its unclear how much the collection wouldve been worth if sold as individual pieces and sets. Wapi Bricks video noted the value of some items, such as Star Wars Gungan Subs ($498.99 each), a LEGO Batman Movie Joker Manor set ($850), a LEGO Movie 2 Apocalypseburg set ($997.97), an Advanced Models: Emerald Night train ($699) and a Pirates of the Caribbean Black Pearl ship ($1,049).

Zuleger told syracuse.com his favorite discovery was an army of Anubis Guard minifigures from a 2011 Pharaohs Quest set, which only had two guards. Hloderwski had 25 of them, each worth about $40 today (or $1,000 total).

Such a cool, rare find we never expected, Zuleger said.

Adrienne said she discussed the sale with her family and other people who were important to her father, including those in the business of buying and reselling LEGO. She and her brother agreed that they couldnt dedicate a huge amount of time towards selling it all themselves, and more importantly wanted to share it with the world.

Adrienne still kept a large number of LEGO sets, including display-only items featured at train shows at the New York State Fair, and some that were personally important to her. She couldnt pick a favorite, but noted that her father wouldnt just build sets  hed create his own.

Dont just go with whats in the box, be creative, and build something from your imagination, she remembers her father saying. Theres a lot of value in whats in the sets and whats in the boxes, but theres something magical when you take things into your hands, literally, and create something.

Hloderwski was born and raised in Syracuse, Adrienne said. He worked at Anheuser-Busch in Baldwinsville, according to the Wapi Bricks video, and retired six months before his death.

But Hloderwskis passion for LEGO lives on through his now internet-famous collection. Adrienne also carries the torch, brick by brick, by teaching others about LEGO.

Adrienne Hloderwski is pictured talking about a LEGO Show in Sullivan County with her friendly dragon. (Provided photo) Provided photo

Also known as Ms. Adrienne" and @yo_adriennee on Instagram, she participates in a large number of LEGO Club events in Sullivan County, where she now lives and works as a teacher. Some of the LEGO pieces and sets she kept are used for enrichment programming with children.

Playing with LEGO can have development benefits, Adrienne said, for fine motor skills, learning how to put different items together, sequencing with instruction books, problem solving and cooperation.

I really saw the benefits in that way beyond just the enjoyment and the imagination. Its a multi-generational media, Adrienne said. Its very much wrapped up in what I do today and its been very difficult to lose my dad.

She said it makes her feel deeply connected to her father, and hopes to carry on his legacy with the magic of LEGO.

He was an artist, very smart, Adrienne said. He was really the best dad.

MORE LEGO:

Say Goodbye: LEGO announces retirement of more than 250 beloved sets

LEGO has a ton of new 2025 advent calendars: Harry Potter, Star Wars, more

LEGO drops the Family Christmas Tree set and shoppers are losing their minds over it
In March 2022, Michelle Schenandoah (Oneida Nation Wolf Clan) joined women from other Indigenous nations to visit Pope Francis at the Vatican.

She came holding an empty cradleboard, signifying the lives of Native American children lost in residential boarding schools, due to forceful assimilation between the early 1800s to the mid-1900s.

We had asked the pope to hold on to this cradleboard overnight and to feel the absence of our children, said Schenandoah, founder of Rematriation. And then wed bring the cradleboard back, and that represented us also bringing our children home.

Schenandoah was a part of the First Nations delegation, one of three, sent to speak with the pope. Due in part to the delegations efforts, the pope visited Canada shortly after to apologize. He called what transpired in those schools a genocide.

This work is the backbone of her efforts at Rematriation, a non-profit with the purpose of uplifting Indigenous womens voices to the masses. The work, she said, aims to strengthen relationships to the ideal of rematriation, a women-led movement focused on restoring balance to the Earth and caring for future and current generations.

Through events like the Haudenosaunee and Indigenous Matrilineality Symposium, held earlier this year at Syracuse University, Schenandoah said she hopes to gather Indigenous voices under one roof to share our knowledge with the public.

With her current show Rematriated Voices, now streaming on WCNY, Schenandoah also shares stories of other Indigenous peoples and allies through mainstream media.

[Its] to be able to show up and say, Here are contemporary Indigenous people, this is what we look like, this is what we know, this is who we are, and this is what wed like to share with the world, she told Syracuse.com | The Post-Standard.

Growing up on the 32 acres of unceded Oneida Nation territory, Schenandoah said she was shaped by the knowledge passed down from elders in her community. But that knowledge was rarely represented in her public school history textbooks. In seventh grade, she recalled, she was handed a thick textbook with only one page of Indigenous history.

It just left this impression that were part of a culture that was disappearing, she said.

Schenandoahs great-grandmother Mary Cornelius Winder began the familys work on Oneida land claims, and her grandmother, who served as a Wolf Clan mother for the Nation, continued that fight.

Inspired by their efforts, the Cornell grad went to law school in 2005 to contribute to the work on the claims. But that same year, the City of Sherrill v. Oneida Nation decision closed the door on Haudenosaunee land claims. In 2019, Schenandoah earned a masters degree in journalism from Syracuse Universitys Newhouse School of Public Communications.

I like to say no experience is wasted, [Im] thinking about how that is incorporated into the work that I do, she said. Im always thinking about the laws in this country and how are the stories told.

For Schenandoah, the popes apology and acknowledgement were just the beginning of recognizing the pain and suffering the Indigenous have gone through over centuries.

Her work at Rematriation has one simple goal: to make Indigenous people more visible now and improve life for all generations to come.

They will know us by the air that they breathe, by the quality of food that they have, by the water that they drink, she said. They will know us because its the decisions that we make today that make that impact.

Michelle Schenandoah founded Rematriation in 2016 to create the space for Indigenous people to share their stories. | Credit: Adriano Kalin Adriano Kalin

Schenandoahs advice to other Trailblazers

Its super important to follow what you love, to think about the things that make you happy that you feel super passionate about. As human beings, we are all given gifts that are different from each other. When we live into those gifts, we all contribute to the world we live in. We all benefit.

Do you know a CNY Trailblazer or Trendsetter?

Throughout 2025, Syracuse.com invites readers to identify Trailblazers and Trendsetters, a wide-ranging group of local entrepreneurs, professionals, artists and advocates  leaders committed to uplifting their communities, inspiring change and working to make a difference in Central New York.

If youd like to suggest someone to be featured next in our series, email Katrina Tulloch at ktulloch@syracuse.com.

Meet all our 2025 Syracuse Trailblazers
The Ministry of Veterans Affairs of Ukraine has invited Canada to become a co-founder and the first donor of the multilateral donor Veterans Support Fund.

"Our state has already taken a significant step forward in shaping a modern veterans policy. The next task is to create a unified and stably funded support system so that every service, from rehabilitation to employment, is accessible, convenient and understandable for Defenders and their families. That is why one of the topics of the meeting was the creation of a Veterans Support Fund, which will allow launching large-scale projects even with small contributions," the department said in a statement following the meeting between Minister Natalia Kalmykova and Canadas Special Representative for the Reconstruction of Ukraine Chrystia Freeland.

It is noted that Ukraine has invited Canada to become a co-founder and the first donor of this Fund.

The Ministry of Veterans Affairs expects that Canadas initial contribution may become an impetus for the participation of other partners.

"Chrystia Freeland confirmed Canadas readiness to consider new formats of cooperation. She emphasized that Ukrainian Defenders and Defenders and their families should receive appropriate support, including the creation of quality services and international recovery programs. Ukraine, together with Canada, is taking an important step towards this common goal and is beginning to build the necessary conditions and tools for this," the report says.

As reported, the Ministry of Veterans Affairs proposed to Switzerland to create a multilateral donor Fund to support the veteran community.
By Colin Kinniburgh | New York Focus

This story originally appeared in New York Focus, a nonprofit news publication investigating power in New York. Sign up for their newsletter here.

When New York abruptly backed down this month from its plans to implement a nation-leading ban on gas in new buildings, some legal observers had questions.

Lawmakers passed the All-Electric Buildings Act, which requires most new buildings to have only electric appliances, in 2023 as a step toward reducing pollution from the states largest source of greenhouse gas emissions and advancing New Yorks legally mandated emissions targets. It was set to take effect in January.

Delaying the laws implementation past then would cause the state irreparable harm, lawyers argued in an October 1 brief. Theyd spent two years successfully defending the law against industry opponents.

But the law is now on hold  with the states signoff. After Governor Kathy Hochuls administration agreed, a federal judge finalized a deal last week that will likely suspend New Yorks gas ban for at least a year and potentially two or more.

The states sudden retreat came after a series of actions from Hochul this year walking back the states climate commitments: shelving a promised carbon pricing program and vowing to fight a court ruling to revive it; signing off on a thrice-rejected underwater gas pipeline after talks with President Donald Trump; and granting permits to a gas-powered cryptocurrency mining facility that regulators had long said violated the states climate law.

In late October, Hochul made it clear that she was having second thoughts about the building mandate, too.

On the electric building issue, Im looking for an all of the above approach, she told reporters in Rochester at the time. Im going to look at this with a very realistic approach and do what I can, because my number one focus is affordability right now.

Republicans and upstate Democrats had been pressuring Hochul to press pause on the electric buildings law, and industry opponents of the law were still trying to persuade a judge to block it, but the state was holding its ground in court. Then, on November 12, New Yorks lawyers filed an agreement with the laws opponents to delay implementation until four months after a federal appeals court and even the US Supreme Court weigh in. The judges signoff made it legally binding  notably, delaying enforcement until after next years gubernatorial election.

Hochuls office is now framing the court deal as a pragmatic step that will help uphold the law in the long term.

The Governor remains committed to the all-electric-buildings law and believes this action will help the State defend it, as well as reduce regulatory uncertainty for developers during this period of litigation, said spokesperson Ken Lovett in a statement.

Some legal experts are skeptical.

The states move, while it was done under the cover of litigation, was 100 percent a political move, said Amy Turner, director of the Cities Climate Law Initiative at Columbia Universitys Sabin Center for Climate Change Law.

If the governor had sought to put the electric buildings mandate on hold through executive action, climate groups almost certainly would have sued. With the court agreement, Turner said, they found a way to do it that makes it seem like their hands were tied.

Heres a closer look at what New York argued in court in early October  and why its recent backtracking is raising eyebrows among some legal observers.

1. Plaintiffs would need to meet a really high legal bar to put the law on hold.

The saga started when a coalition of gas and construction industry interests, including building trades unions, sued New York state in the federal Northern District over the freshly passed electric buildings law in 2023. They argued that under federal law, the state does not have the power to ban fossil fuel appliances.

Judge Glenn Suddaby ruled in favor of the state this July and dismissed the case, but the plaintiffs went back to him in September, pleading for him to suspend the law anyway while they appealed the ruling. They argued that they had a strong case, citing a federal appeals court in California that had overturned Berkeleys first-in-the-nation gas ban on the basis of the same federal law.

It was not unusual for the New York plaintiffs to seek such an injunction, said Daniel Carpenter-Gold, an attorney at the Public Health Law Center who has been tracking the case. But its also very difficult to win, he said.

In their October 1 brief, New Yorks lawyers stressed just how high of a bar the plaintiffs would have to meet to secure an injunction at this stage  particularly since it was the first time in the two-year case that theyd asked the judge to take such a step.

Source: New York State Unified Court System

They would need to convince the district court judge to block a law that was passed through the democratic process and that he himself had just upheld. To do so, they would need to show both that they had a good chance of winning at the appellate level, and that they would face irreparable harm if the law were allowed to proceed.

Plaintiffs fail to satisfy any of these requirements, the states lawyers argued.

2. New York state couldnt block the law even if it wanted to.

The state went a step further in its October 1 filing, arguing that it couldnt suspend the law even if it wanted to. The Code Council had already finalized the new building code, the culmination of a lengthy process that takes place every five years and is meant to take into account new laws like the All-Electric Buildings Act that are passed in the interim.

Once the new code is published, its up to local code enforcement officials  not the state  to enforce it. In other words, New Yorks lawyers argued, it was too late for a court to force the state to block it.

Source: New York State Unified Court System

3. Delaying implementation would cause the state irreparable harm.

The final issue at stake in the recent court exchange was which side would suffer irreparable harm if their opponents prevailed. The plaintiffs argued that they would: Propane gas companies, for example, could lose much of their new business, and union plumbers and pipefitters could lose jobs.

The state countered that it would, because new fossil fuel buildings constructed while the law is on hold would last for decades to come, irreversibly setting back the states efforts to meet its legally binding climate targets.

Source: New York State Unified Court System

As the political battle over building electrification heated up in early November, there was no sign that Judge Suddaby was wavering on his decision.

On November 3, the plaintiffs said they would move the case to the Second Circuit Court of Appeals if he didnt file an injunction within a week. He didnt.

The state has a strong case, said Carpenter-Gold, of the Public Health Law Center. There was nothing that I could see that would have indicated that their position had weakened in any way, he said. So he was surprised when New Yorks lawyers suddenly conceded the plaintiffs demand.

The deal suspends the law for at least a year: until the appeals court rules on it, which could easily take six months; while the plaintiffs potentially appeal to the US Supreme Court, which could add several months more, even if the high court declines to take up the case; and for another four months either way.

Climate hawks are furious at the Hochul administrations decision. After it was first reported, lawmakers and advocates lined up to demand that the governor reverse course. That would be hard for her to do. Now that the judge has signed off on the November 12 deal, the state is under court order to keep the law on ice. The New York Department of State issued a notice late last week that the all-electric section of the building code is on pause.

Its not yet clear whether the notice fully satisfies the court order, or whether the code council will take further action to codify the delay. Climate advocates are planning to rally outside its next meeting, on December 5, either way.
Pompey, NY - A state appellate court ruled last week Heritage Hills Brewhouse can go ahead with plans to add a meat processing plant and expand its brewery.

But the victory is hard for owner Dan Palladino to swallow.

The legal fight brought by some neighbors upset over the expansion lasted two years. In that time, Palladino says, his investors have moved on to other opportunities, and the plans to expand are dead.

Unfortunately the delays caused by the lawsuit and appeal resulted in the loss of the expansion opportunity for us, Palladino told syracuse.com | The Post-Standard.

Palladino first announced plans to expand in 2023. The idea was to construct a meat processing building next door to its existing brewhouse and restaurant. The town planning board approved the plans.

But a group of neighbors sued the brewhouse and the towns planning board, arguing a more rigorous environmental review was needed before allowing the popular restaurant set in the midst of farmland to expand.

A state Supreme Court judge in March 2024 dismissed the lawsuit, one victory for Palladino.

But the neighbors appealed to the states Appellate Division.

On Friday, that court upheld the lower courts decision, concluding that Pompeys planning board met its environmental review obligations and took the required hard look at all the factors, such as noise, lighting, wastewater and parking.

File photo: Dan Palladino, owner of the Heritage Hill Brewhouse in Pompey, faced a lawsuit from a few neighbors over expansion plans. Scott Trimble | syracuse.com N. Scott Trimble | syracuse.com

The decision is too late, Palladino said. Hes accepted that he cant move forward but is upset over the way the process works.

They never had a case and they lost clearly, but were able to tie it up long enough that it couldnt move forward, Palladino said.

Palladino opened Heritage Hill Brewhouse in 2017. It encompasses about 300 acres overlooking the hills of Pompey and has grown into a brewery and restaurant with live music and an event center that hosts parties and weddings.

Its sad, and I hope it leads to change going forward, but the opportunity is lost for me, Palladino said.
Syracuse, N.Y. -- As much as 8 inches of fresh snow could fall between 5 p.m. and midnight today in Syracuse and parts of Central New York, according to an afternoon update from the National Weather Service.

A lake effect snow warning remains in effect for Madison, Onondaga and Oneida counties until 7 a.m. Saturday.

Communities in those areas could snow accumulation between 6 and 15 inches, with as much as 20 inches dumping in some areas, according to the weather service.

Winds could gust as high was 35 mph, causing snow to blow and significantly reducing visibility Friday evening, the weather service warned.

Snowfall rates up to 2.5 inches per hour are expected in the heaviest lake effect snow band this afternoon and evening, the weather service said.

The highest snowfall totals are expected to occur along the New York Thruway and along Interstates 690 and 481 in Onondaga County. That heavy snowfall is also expected on the Thruway Madison and Oneida counties.

Since 4 p.m., about 30 vehicle accidents or disabled vehicles were reported in Onondaga County, according to 911 reports. Almost all reported no injuries, though some vehicles went into water or were blocking exits, according to dispatches.

Syracuse Police responded to a total of 26 motor vehicle accidents between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Friday according to Sgt. Tom Blake, a spokesperson for the department.

People were injured in eight of the 26 crashes, Blake said. SPD also responded to 7 disabled vehicles, he said.

Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh this afternoon urged drivers and pedestrians to use caution. He said tonights downtown Christmas tree lighting in Clinton Square would go on as scheduled at 6 p.m.

Madison County Sheriff Todd Hood issued a travel advisory Friday afternoon asking drivers to limit travel through the evening amidst heavy snowfall. The advisory does not restrict travel, Hood said. It is simply a recommendation.

Walsh issued a safety alert asking people to remove snow from sidewalks and fire hydrants, follow alternate side parking rules and to drive safely.

Walsh said that Department of Public Works crews are working around the city, but proactive assistance from residents will make things easier for everyone.

Hood urged drivers to give space to plow trucks, drive slowly and use caution at intersections.

Walsh also warned of unsafe roads in Syracuse, asking drivers to give plenty of space to snow plows.

Both Hood and Walsh said their notices are in place until 7 a.m. Saturday.

Road crews are out and working to combat the conditions through the evening, both Hood and Walsh said.

In the Syracuse news release, residents were encouraged to submit snow related concerns and requests using the SYRCityline app or by calling 315-448-2489.
Limited Liability Companies give business owners a unique blend of liability protection and some real tax flexibility. The main tax perk of an LLC is pass-through taxation, which lets profits flow directly to owners' personal tax returns and sidesteps the double taxation that corporations face.

This setup means the business itself doesn't pay federal income taxes. Owners only pay taxes once, on their share of the profits.

Beyond that basic pass-through, LLCs offer owners plenty of ways to cut their tax bill. You can tap into a bunch of business deductions, pick from different tax classifications if your goals shift, and score special deductions on business income.

The flexibility here is a big dealit lets you tweak your tax approach as your business evolves. Not every structure gives you that kind of breathing room.

Understanding how LLCs are taxed isn't intuitive. You have to weigh your current setup, where you think your income's headed, and what you want long-term.

Getting advice from a good tax pro is worth it. They can help you squeeze the most out of your LLC tax benefits and keep you on the IRS's good side.

Overview of LLC Taxation

LLCs get special tax treatment from the IRS, depending on how they're set up and what elections they've made. Each has its own spin on LLC taxes, which can get confusing fast.

How LLCs Are Taxed

The IRS doesn't slot LLCs into its own tax category. By default, LLCs use pass-through taxationprofits and losses flow through to the owners' personal returns.

This means LLC members dodge corporate-level tax. Depending on the structure, you'll see business income on Schedule C, Schedule E, or Form 1065. Members pay taxes at their own rates.

Want to change it up? LLCs can file Form 8832 to be taxed as a C corporation or Form 2553 to be taxed as an S corporation. Each path tweaks how you file, what you owe, and how you pay estimated taxes.

Single-Member vs. Multi-Member Taxation

Run your LLC solo? The IRS treats it like a sole proprietorship. All income and expenses get reported on Schedule C of your 1040. Simple enough.

Multi-member LLCs? They're taxed like partnerships. You file Form 1065 and hand out Schedule K-1s to each member, showing each member's share of income, deductions, and credits.

This setup impacts self-employment tax. Single-member owners pay it on all net earnings. For multi-member LLCs, each partner pays on their share, and guaranteed payments are always subject to this tax, profit or not.

Default IRS Classification

The IRS uses automatic rules based on how many members your LLC has. Single-member LLCs default to sole proprietorship statusno extra forms needed.

With two or more members, the partnership classification kicks in. This sticks from day one unless you file to change it, and it determines which tax forms you'll be juggling.

You can override the default within 75 days of starting up or even later, but once you switch, you're generally locked in for 60 months unless the IRS says otherwise.

State Tax Variations

States play by their own rules when it comes to LLC taxes. Some charge franchise taxesjust the cost of doing business as an LLC, profit or not.

California, for example, slaps on an $800 annual franchise tax plus a gross receipts fee if you make more than $250,000. New York imposes filing fees and publication costs, while Texas taxes businesses that cross certain revenue thresholds.

Then there are states like Wyoming, Nevada, and South Dakotano corporate income tax at all. Others have their own rates or require extra elections. Local and industry-specific taxes can pile on, too. It's a patchwork, honestly.

Pass-Through Taxation Advantages

Pass-through taxation lets LLC profits flow directly to owners' personal returns, bypassing the corporate tax layer that C corporations face. This can make life simpler and, in many cases, cheaper come tax time.

Avoidance of Double Taxation

With pass-through taxation, you dodge double taxation. C corporations pay tax on profits, then shareholders pay again on dividends. Not exactly a win.

LLCs classified as pass-through entities avoid this. The business itself doesn't pay federal income taxprofits just show up on the owners' personal returns.

That single layer of tax can mean real savings. Say your LLC brings in $100,000 in profit: you're taxed once, at your personal rate. Compare that to a C corp, where the IRS takes 21% off the top, then taxes you again when you get paid out. Ouch.

Personal Income Tax Reporting

LLC owners report business income on their personal returns. Single-member LLCs use Schedule C, while multi-member LLCs get Schedule K-1s.

Single-member LLCs are disregarded entities by defaultjust report everything on Schedule C of your 1040, treating it as self-employment income.

For multi-member LLCs, you file Form 1065. Each member gets a K-1 showing their share, which they plug into their own return.

This way, you skip filing a separate corporate return. It's all in one place, which makes planning a bit less of a headache.

Flexibility in Allocating Profits

LLCs with pass-through taxation can divvy up profits however they agreedoesn't have to match ownership percentages. Multi-member LLCs can set up special allocations in their operating agreement.

Unlike corporations, which have pretty rigid dividend rules, LLC members can split profits based on who contributed what, who did more work, whatever makes senseas long as it meets IRS rules for economic effect.

The same goes for losses. Members can use their share of business losses to offset other income, within certain limits.

Just make sure these allocations are spelled out in the operating agreement and have real economic substance. The IRS doesn't love allocations that exist just to save tax.

Reduced Corporate Formalities

LLCs taxed as pass-through entities deal with fewer formalities than C corporations. No annual shareholder meetings, no endless minutes, and usually no separate corporate tax return.

This lighter compliance load is a relief for most small business ownersmore time for actual work, less for paperwork.

But don't forget: pass-through owners still owe self-employment taxes on their share of income15.3% on net earnings up to the Social Security wage base, and Medicare tax above that. It adds up.

Some LLCs designate passive members who don't pay self-employment tax on their share, but they'll still pay regular income tax. Details matter here.

Tax Deductions and Credits for LLCs

LLC owners can lower taxable income by claiming all sorts of business expense deductionsthink office supplies, rent, utilities, travel, even health insurance premiums. Keeping solid records is key if you want these deductions to stick in an audit.

Deductible Business Expenses

LLCs can deduct ordinary and necessary business expenses. Stuff like office supplies, equipment, software, professional fees, advertising, and business insurance all count. Travel for businessairfare, hotels, rental cars, and 50% of mealscan also be deducted.

Marketing and advertising? Fully deductible. Legal and accounting fees related to business operations are fair game. Just hang onto receipts and invoices for everything you claim.

Employee wages, benefits, and payroll taxes are fully deductible. Rent for office space, warehouses, or retail locations knocks down your taxable income. Utilitieselectricity, water, internet, phoneused for business also qualify.

Home Office Deductions

If you use part of your home exclusively and regularly for business, you can claim a home office deduction. The IRS offers two ways: a simplified method at $5 per square foot (up to 300 square feet) or the regular method based on actual expenses.

The regular method means figuring out what percentage of your home is used for business, then applying that to mortgage interest, property taxes, utilities, insurance, and repairs. Your workspace has to be your central business spot or a place where you meet clients.

The simplified method caps the deduction at $1,500 per year. It's easier, but sometimes it nets you less than the regular method.

Self-Employment Tax Deductions

LLC members pay self-employment tax (15.3%) on their share of business income, covering Social Security and Medicare. You can deduct half of your self-employment tax when figuring your adjusted gross income.

This deduction shows up on Form 1040 as an income adjustment. It lowers your income tax bill, but not the self-employment tax itself. You owe self-employment tax on your share, whether or not you actually withdraw the money.

If you pay health insurance premiums for yourself, your spouse, or dependents, those may be deductible tooassuming your business shows a profit for the year.

Electing S Corporation Tax Status

An LLC can elect S corporation tax status, which changes how the business and owners pay federal taxes. This mainly affects self-employment taxes, so you'll need to set up a real payroll for any owners working in the industry.

Potential Payroll Tax Savings

The significant S Corp advantage is potential savings on self-employment taxes. Typically, LLC owners pay 15.3% on all net business income.

With S corp status, only wages paid to owner-employees are hit with payroll taxes. Profits paid out as distributions skip those taxes. For example, if your LLC earns $150,000, you might take $80,000 in salary and $70,000 in distributionsthe self-employment tax applies only to the salary. That could save you around $10,700 on the distribution chunk.

But there's a catch: the IRS expects owner-employees to pay themselves a reasonable salary. Set it too low, and you're inviting an audit or penalties.

Eligibility Requirements

S corporations must meet strict IRS rules. You can't have more than 100 shareholders, and all owners need to be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Certain trusts and estates can own shares, but partnerships and corporations can't.

The LLC must only have one class of stockeveryone gets the same economic rights. Voting rights can differ, but the money side has to be equal.

To make the S corporation election, file Form 2553 with the IRS. Do it by March 15 for the current tax year; otherwise, it kicks in next year. All LLC members need to sign off.

Impact on Owner Compensation

S corp status means setting up real payroll for owner-employees. That includes withholding income tax, Social Security, and Medicare, plus paying the employer's share. You'll need to file quarterly payroll tax returns and hand out W-2s every year.

Owner salaries should reflect what someone in a similar role would earn elsewhere. The IRS looks at job duties, time spent, business size, and what others in the industry are paid.

Anything paid out beyond wages is treated as pass-through incomeowners report it on their personal returns, but no extra self-employment tax applies. Just make sure the S corp has enough earnings to cover those distributions.

Additional Tax Considerations for LLC Owners

LLC owners face a handful of ongoing tax obligations beyond income taxes. Federal estimated payments, state-level franchise fees, and employment tax requirements all come with their own rulesand sometimes, headachesif you miss them.

Estimated Tax Payments

Most LLC members have to make quarterly estimated tax payments since there's no employer automatically withholding taxes from their business income. The IRS expects these payments if you think you'll owe at least $1,000 in taxes after subtracting any withholding and credits.

Deadlines for these payments fall on April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15 of the following year. Owners figure out their estimated taxes using either 90% of what they think they'll owe for the year or 100% of what they owed last year, whichever is less.

If you made over $150,000 last year, though, the IRS bumps that upyou've got to pay 110% of the previous year's tax to dodge penalties. Underpayment penalties kick in if you don't pay enough as the year goes on.

The penalty rate itself changes every quarter, based on the federal short-term rate plus three percentage points. It's one of those details that can sneak up on you.

State Franchise Taxes

Many states also tack on franchise taxes or annual fees for LLCs, even if your business didn't make a profit. These aren't the same as state income taxes; they're just for the privilege of being an LLC in that state, which sometimes feels unfair.

For example, California imposes an $800 minimum franchise tax on LLCs each year, while Delaware imposes a $300 minimum franchise tax. States like Texas get more creative, calculating franchise tax based on revenue or margin, and different business types face different rates or thresholds.

LLC owners have to file franchise tax returns separately from their income tax returns. If you miss a payment, you could face penalties and interest, or risk your LLC being administratively dissolved. States set their own due dates, which aren't always in sync with federal tax deadlines.

Employment Taxes

LLCs with employees on payroll must handle several types of employment taxes. Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) taxes cover Social Security at 6.2% and Medicare at 1.45%.

Employers match those amounts, so the total is 15.3%. It adds up quickly, doesn't it?

The LLC is also responsible for withholding federal income tax from employee paychecks, which all depends on those W-4 forms everyone fills out. Then there's the Federal Unemployment Tax Act (FUTA) tax, which starts at 6% on the first $7,000 of each employee's wages.

Most employers, though, get credits that drop that rate down to 0.6%definitely a bit of a relief.

State unemployment insurance taxes are a whole separate thingthey vary a lot, depending on where you are, your industry, and your claims history. On top of that, most states want you to withhold for state income taxes, too.

LLCs must deposit these taxes according to specific schedules. Don't forget those quarterly Form 941 reports for the IRS, either.
Ukrainian citizen Serhiy Kuznetsov, suspected of blowing the Russian Nord Stream gas pipelines in 2022, has been arrested in Germany, the press service of Germanys Federal Prosecutors Office reports.

"An arrest warrant has been executed in connection with the suspicion of sabotage of the Nord Stream gas pipelines. The investigating judge of the Federal Court today (November 28, 2025) executed the arrest warrant for Ukrainian citizen Serhiy K," German prosecutors said.

The office clarified that the suspect was detained on August 21, 2025 in the province of Rimini (Italy) and was extradited to Germany yesterday (November 27, 2025).

As reported, the extradition followed the decision of the Italian Supreme Court, which on November 19 rejected Kuznetsovs appeal against the decision of the Bologna Court of Appeal, confirming his extradition to Germany.

Kuznetsov himself denies any involvement in sabotage of Russian gas pipelines. As previously reported, German prosecutors accuse Kuznetsov of belonging to a group of individuals who installed devices on pipelines near the Danish island of Bornholm in the Baltic Sea. He has been charged with conspiracy to cause an explosion, unconstitutional sabotage and the destruction of important facilities.
In blow to Lula, Brazil Congress revives controversial environmental bill



Brasilia, Nov 27 (AFP) Nov 27, 2025



Brazil's conservative-led Congress on Thursday reinstated much of a bill that makes it easier for companies to secure environmental permits, infuriating the leftist government and green groups.

President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva had vetoed dozens of provisions of what has been dubbed the "Devastation Bill", but Congress has the power to override those actions.

Lawmakers reversed around 80 percent of Lula's vetoes in a major blow to his government just days after Brazil wrapped up the hosting of COP30 UN climate talks.

The bill "kills environmental licensing in the country", said the Climate Observatory, a coalition of NGOs, vowing to take legal action against it.

For some permits, all that will be required is a simple declaration of the company's commitment to preserving the environment.

This move "contradicts the government's environmental and climate efforts, right after hosting COP30. Very bad news," Institutional Relations Minister Gleisi Hoffmann wrote on X.

The government had warned a day earlier that overturning the vetoes could have "immediate and hard-to-reverse effects," citing the "alarming rise in extreme climate disasters."

Lawmaker Sostenes Cavalcante -- an ally of far-right former president Jair Bolsonaro -- celebrated the move, accusing Lula of seeking to "undermine agribusiness, the only sector still performing well economically in Brazil."

The Climate Observatory accused congressional leaders of hypocrisy for approving what it called "the worst environmental setback in Brazil's history" just days after appearing as "climate defenders" at COP30.

The NGO said the bill will impact everything from major new agricultural projects to mining projects to the controversial paving of a major highway in the Amazon, which will be exempt from environmental licensing.

Lula boasts an overall positive environmental record, having overseen a sharp decline in deforestation in the Amazon rainforest.

However, he came under fire from environmentalists for backing a controversial oil-exploration project near the mouth of the Amazon River, which began in October.

rsr-ll/fb/ksb
Lethal virus hits last rare blue macaws in Brazil wild



Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Nov 27 (AFP) Nov 27, 2025



The only wild specimens of a rare blue parrot, which were recently returned to their natural habitat, have been diagnosed with an incurable, likely lethal virus, Brazil's government told AFP Thursday.

The disease strikes a major blow to a program seeking to return the Spix's macaw -- featured in the 2011 animated film "Rio" -- to its semi-arid natural habitat in northeast Brazil, 25 years after they were declared extinct in the wild.

Brazil's conservation agency, ICMBio, told AFP that since a first group of Spix's macaws arrived in the country from Germany in 2020, around 20 had been freed, only 11 of which had survived.

All of the survivors have tested positive for circovirus, which causes beak and feather disease in parrots but poses no danger to humans.

"The disease has no cure and kills the bird in most cases," ICMbio said in a statement.

Another 21 birds of around 90 still in captivity at a breeding center in the state of Bahia also tested positive.

The film "Rio" is about a Spix macaw that is raised in captivity in the United States and returns to Brazil to try to save its species.

Real-life efforts to save the parrot are more worthy of a high-stakes drama, marked by institutional conflict, concerns over unscrupulous breeders and sales to private collectors.

The BlueSky breeding center is a partner of the German Association for the Conservation of Threatened Parrots (ACTP), which holds 75 percent of the world's registered Spix's macaws, according to ICMBio.

Brazil terminated its partnership with ATCP in 2024 after the German organization sold 26 of the birds to a private zoo in India without its consent.

Brazil has repeatedly raised concerns at meetings of CITES, the global wildlife trade regulator, over loopholes that allow for the sale of captive-bred Spix's macaws and fuel demand for the fragile species.

Aside from habitat loss, demand from private collectors drove the extinction of the bird in the wild.

ICMBio has fined the BlueSky breeding center 1.8 million reais ($336,000) for failing to implement biosafety protocols to curb the spread of the virus.

Inspectors found "extremely dirty" bird feeders encrusted with faeces, while workers were handling the birds "wearing flip-flops, shorts and t-shirts."

The breeding center had fiercely resisted efforts to recapture the wild Spix's macaws, which a court ordered them to do in October.

It wrote on its website this week that parrots in South America were "more resistant" to circovirus than those elsewhere in the world.

Several had already recovered and were testing negative, according to the center.

BlueSky said it had increased sanitary measures, isolated healthy birds and built barriers to prevent contact between wild birds and captive birds.

"No birds died, all have excellent flight capacity and are feeding well."
The case of Africa's 'vanishing' carbon deals



Monrovia, Nov 28 (AFP) Nov 28, 2025



When Liberia's government signed an agreement with a little-known Dubai company run by a royal sheikh in 2023, the "carbon credit" deal promised to protect vast tracts of forests and offset big polluters' emissions.

It was one of a flurry of deals UAE-based Blue Carbon signed that year covering millions of hectares of forests across Africa -- with one in Zimbabwe covering a fifth of the country's landmass.

They were promoted as a win-win. African governments would safeguard forests for a share of revenues from carbon credit sales. There would be benefits for communities and help to fight deforestation.

But more than two years on, Liberia's Blue Carbon deal has stalled. Other accords across Africa and elsewhere have also gone nowhere, while the UAE company itself appears to have fallen silent, according to a joint investigation by AFP and Code for Africa, an investigative organisation.

"It was stopped," Elijah Whapoe, Liberia's National Climate Change Steering Committee (NCCSC) coordinator, told AFP when asked about the status of the Blue Carbon agreement.

"As we speak, there is no attempt to my knowledge, anything, about trying to resuscitate it."

Blue Carbon's Africa venture highlights the complexity of delivering on carbon credits, schemes that still lack oversight and are often criticised for offering large polluters a chance to "greenwash" emissions with little or no impact on climate change.

Carbon credits, or offsetting, allow greenhouse gas producers to "cancel out" some of their emissions by investing in projects that prevent or reduce carbon dioxide production. Forests store huge amounts of carbon dioxide, and protecting them prevents the planet-warming gas from being released.

Most of the Africa agreements were signed before or on the sidelines of the COP28 summit in the United Arab Emirates in 2023. Blue Carbon's chairman Sheikh Ahmed Dalmook Al Maktoum, a member of Dubai's royal family, was often present.

Blue Carbon presented them as a model for carbon trading under the Article 6 of the United Nations climate agreement that was signed in Paris in 2015 and sets the rules for how countries can trade carbon credits.

Blue Carbon also said its work would help the United Arab Emirates achieve its carbon reduction goals, according to a company statement released when it launched in October 2022.

For environmentalists, Blue Carbon's Africa agreements were at best mismatched with local realities. At worst, critics say, they were a means to allow oil-producer the UAE to earn "green" credentials before hosting the COP28 summit.

Under Liberia's deal, approximately one million hectares of forests -- around 10 percent of the country's landmass -- would be protected, local communities engaged and the government rewarded 30 percent of revenues in a deal for sustainable forest management, according to a Blue Carbon statement and a preliminary copy of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) seen by AFP.

Like Liberia's deal, other Africa accords were so-called REDD+ frameworks where some developing countries can receive financing for reducing emissions by stopping deforestation.

But Blue Carbon's Liberia agreement soon ran into a barrage of criticism from activists and environmentalists who said the deals would trample over local community ownership agreements, undermine existing legal rights and offer little transparency.

Saskia Ozinga, the founder of Fern, an organisation working to protect forests and their communities, said the Blue Carbon deals in Africa were unprecedented in scale, unclear about how they would protect forests and lacked consultations with communities.

"Blue Carbon was clearly aimed to greenwash," she said. "It was a bizarre idea from many different perspectives, which would have never worked for the climate, for forests and for people."



- Deals across Africa -



One of Blue Carbon's initial agreements on the continent was in March 2023 with Tanzania to help "preserve and manage its 8 million hectares of forest reserves," according to a Blue Carbon statement.

With Zambia, it also covered eight million hectares while Zimbabwe's agreement involved 7.5 million hectares that would generate "profound benefits for local communities", according to company statements on social media. Blue Carbon inked another deal with Kenya and with Nigeria's north central Niger state.

Soon after Liberia's finance minister Samuel Tweah signed, a UN agency and local NGOs urged the government to reconsider the Blue Carbon deal because of the risks of legal challenges and other concerns.

A letter from the UN Resident Coordinator and the Coordinating Partners Group dated August 2023 sent to Tweah warned of "serious and credible concerns that the concessions arrangement conflicts with existing community and individual land rights," it said.

Vincent Willie, a former lawmaker and chairman of a committee for natural resources and environment, said Blue Carbon had made initial proposals, but that amounted only to signing the non-binding memorandum.

"As far as I am concerned that is the only place the government stopped," he told AFP.

Whapoe, the head of Liberia's climate change secretariat, said the Blue Carbon deal was halted because it had not been "consistent" with how carbon deals are meant to be managed, including more local input.

Outreach to communities was started, but James G. Otto, a Liberian activist from the River Cess region, said visits by government agencies and civil society organisations left the community with more questions.

"They say and insist that any agreement on the use of their land and forest resources should be directly driven by them," Otto told AFP. "As far as our information gathering is concerned, there has been no formal work initiated under the Blue Carbon deal."



- Africa and beyond -



Other Blue Carbon programmes appear to have gone little further, according to activists and officials who spoke to AFP.

Blue Carbon hailed the Zimbabwe deal, which was to cover about 20 percent of the country's landmass, as a "historic achievement for climate action".

But Zimbabwe's deal was only an expression of interest, and implementation still requires a formal project, said Washington Zhakata, Zimbabwe's director for climate change.

"Blue Carbon has yet to submit its project idea note. Nonetheless, the company has already applied for an account on the Zimbabwe Carbon Registry," Zhakata said.

Douty Chibamba, Zambia's Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, also told AFP nothing came of his nation's Blue Carbon agreement.

"The MOU lapsed without any action," he said.

Kenyan and Tanzanian officials did not respond to requests for details.

Another high-profile Blue Carbon deal outside of the continent has appeared to meet a similar fate.

Papua New Guinea signed an MOU with Blue Carbon in 2023 on the sidelines of the COP28 in Dubai. Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape's office said then his nation's "vast mangrove areas" could be harnessed.

However, Papua New Guinea's Climate Change Authority told AFP in July the agreement had "not progressed at all".

To sell the planned PNG carbon credits, Blue Carbon partnered with Singapore-based AirCarbon Exchange as its "preferred platform". But this agreement, too, has gone nowhere.

"Our MOU with the Dubai company 'Blue Carbon', signed in 2023, has since lapsed," an AirCarbon Exchange spokesperson told AFP. "There has been no active engagement between the parties."



- 'Hot air' -



Today the company appears to have no global registration and no operational footprint in any recognised global carbon market system, according to a digital investigation by Code for Africa, a South Africa-based operation whose iLAB is Africa's largest forensic data investigation unit.

Code for Africa found no trace of Blue Carbon or its projects on the three main databases for global carbon credit certification, run by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), and companies Verra and Gold Standard.

And there was no sign of Blue Carbon having filed notifications of intent that are required under Article 6.4 of the Paris Agreement framework for new deals to go ahead.

Blue Carbon's publicity campaign has also evaporated.

"Blue Carbon aims to be at the forefront of sustainable climate change investment," the company said in an October 2022 statement announcing its launch that also explicitly linked its work to the UAE's official greenhouse gas reduction strategy.

"Blue Carbon will serve as an enabler of blue and green economy operational frameworks that will set the agenda for the implementation of international climate agreements as well as to contribute to the UAE Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative."

During 2023, Blue Carbon also released statements and photos on its social media accounts showing African officials signing MOUs with the company's leaders.

But its Instagram account, which first posted in October 2022 to coincide with the company's launch, has not had a new post since December 2023.

Similarly, the company's official X account, @BlueCarbonDxb, posted 27 times between October 18, 2022 and March 28, 2023, and has been inactive ever since. Its final post announced the signing with Liberia.

Blue Carbon's website no longer works, having gone offline between May and July 2025, according to archival records examined by Code for Africa's iLab.

AFP attempted multiple ways to contact Blue Carbon, including emails to [email protected] and calls to a number for one of the company's executives, but received no reply.

An AFP journalist also visited the Blue Carbon address listed in the Liberia MOU in Dubai. A security guard initially said Blue Carbon was based there. But later he said there was no Blue Carbon office, and said the reporter needed an appointment. There was no Blue Carbon sign visible in the lobby.

The UAE's government did not respond to a request for comment.

Carbon credit projects, particularly those involving forest protection, have frequently run into problems ranging from failing to protect designated forests to links with rights violations of local residents. Efforts are currently under way to improve oversight and regulation of crediting schemes.

"There are a number of lessons emergent from the Blue Carbon saga, chief among them the importance of robust standards related to the supply and use of carbon credits internationally," said Injy Johnstone, research fellow in net-zero aligned offsetting at Oxford University.

"We need to see more transparency related to Article 6 transactions, concrete standards related to environmental integrity of the projects themselves and public accountability from both the supplier and end-user to ensure they do not vanish into 'hot air' as this one has."

This investigation was supported by insights from Code for Africa's Anita Igbine, Eliud Akwei, Jacktone Momanyi, and Moffin Njoroge.

bur-pma/kma/giv/fg/gv
Sri Lanka deploys troops as weather toll climbs to 56



Colombo, Nov 28 (AFP) Nov 28, 2025



Sri Lankan authorities deployed the military for relief and rescue operations Friday as the death toll from floods and landslides rose to 56, with another 21 people listed as missing.

Helicopters, navy boats and armoured personnel carriers are being used to evacuate marooned villagers in several parts of the country, the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) said, as the rain continued.

The island's entire 65,000-square-kilometre (25,000-square-mile) area is experiencing rainfall, with some regions seeing 360 millimetres in the past 24 hours, the DMC said.

Of the 56 people confirmed dead, 26 were buried alive in mudslides in the tea-growing Badulla district in the central region of the island, it added.

Twenty-one people were listed as missing, while another 14 were hospitalised.

The DMC said a cyclonic storm named "Ditwah" was moving across the island's eastern region, resulting in heavy rains across the country.

The system is expected to move northwards towards neighbouring Tamil Nadu state in India by Sunday.

"Due to the influence of this system, the prevailing heavy showers and strong winds over the island are expected to continue," the DMC said.

Nearly 700 homes were damaged in mudslides and floods, with almost 1,800 families moved to temporary shelters.

The DMC said river levels were rising across Sri Lanka and warned residents in low-lying areas to move to higher ground.

Sri Lanka is currently experiencing the northeast monsoon season, but rainfall has intensified due to the cyclone, it added.

The government suspended final-year school examinations nationwide for two days because of the weather. Civil servants were given a day off.

Sri Lanka's parliament also suspended its budget debate so that legislators could return to their constituencies to deal with the damage.

This week's weather-related toll is the highest since June last year, when 26 people were killed following heavy rains. In December, 17 people were killed by flooding and landslides.

The worst flooding this century occurred in June 2003, when 254 people were killed.

Sri Lanka depends on seasonal monsoon rains for irrigation and hydroelectricity, but experts have warned that the country faces more frequent floods due to climate change.
Italy's Sicily bridge could breach EU rules, court warns



Rome, Nov 28 (AFP) Nov 28, 2025



The Italian government risks breaking EU rules if it presses ahead with a controversial new bridge from the mainland to Sicily, according to a court which oversees public spending.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's right-wing government in August approved a 13.5-billion-euro ($15.6-billion) project to build what would be the world's longest suspension bridge across the Strait of Messina.

But in a ruling published late Thursday, the Court of Auditors said the current project violates a European Union directive which protects natural habitats and species.

It said the government had got around the need to ask for the European Commission's opinion on the environmental impact by declaring that the project serves "imperative reasons of overriding public interest".

But it added that these reasons "are not validated by technical bodies and are not supported by adequate documentation".

It also said that under European rules for bidders it would have expected a new tender to be held, considering the sharp rise in costs and change in financing from the original project, which was signed off some 20 years ago.

The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) said it was no surprise to learn "the government's stubbornly pursued procedure violated environmental protection and procurement regulations".

Italian politicians have for decades debated a bridge linking Sicily and the region of Calabria, at the toe of Italy's boot. The bridge would have two railway lines in the middle and three lanes of traffic on either side, with a suspended span of 3.3 kilometres (2.05 miles) -- a world record -- stretching between two 400-metre (1,300 feet) high towers.

The approval in August by a government committee, CIPESS, is the furthest the project has ever got.

Though Rome can push ahead without the Court of Auditors' green light, the government insisted Thursday the issues raised could be clarified.

Advocates say the state-funded project will provide an economic boost for the impoverished south of Italy.

The government also hopes the bridge can be classified as a strategic asset, with its costs counting towards the money Italy has committed to defence spending as part of the NATO alliance.

However, critics have warned over the final cost while there have been local protests over the environmental impact, and complaints that the money could be better spent.
Russia bans Human Rights Watch



Moscow, Nov 28 (AFP) Nov 28, 2025



Russia added Human Rights Watch to its list of "undesirable" organisations on Friday, effectively banning the New York-based pressure group from operating on its territory.

Russia did not give a reason for the decision, and Human Rights Watch, which was forced to shutter its offices in Russia in 2022, did not immediately comment.

Since Russia launched its offensive on Ukraine in February 2022, the country's justice ministry has banned dozens of groups critical of Kremlin policy or Moscow's conduct in the war.

Human Rights Watch, which investigates and publishes reports on abuses perpetrated by militaries and governments worldwide, has repeatedly condemned the war and accused the Russian military of carrying out a "litany of violations" -- a charge Moscow denies.

Among other organisations labelled as "undesirable" in Russia are the World Wildlife Fund, Greenpeace, Transparency International and the Elton John AIDS Foundation.

The label makes anyone who works with the group or donates money to them liable to prosecution in Russia.
Human Rights Watch vows more Russia investigations, despite ban



Warsaw, Nov 28 (AFP) Nov 28, 2025



Human Rights Watch will not stop investigating Russia or the actions of its military in Ukraine, despite Moscow declaring it an "undesirable" organisation earlier Friday, the New York-based group told AFP.

In an interview, the influential body said it was "not surprised" by the designation -- which effectively criminalises it in Russia and anyone who works with them -- and vowed to continue its work remotely.

Human Rights Watch has not had a physical presence in Russia since authorities closed its Moscow offices in 2022.

"We are actually going to work even harder to expose the staggering crackdown by the Kremlin on Russian civil society and to report on Russian crimes in Ukraine," Tanya Lokshina, senior associate director of the group's Europe and Central Asia division, told AFP.

Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the country's justice ministry has banned dozens of groups critical of Kremlin policy or Moscow's conduct in the war.

Human Rights Watch, which investigates and publishes reports on abuses perpetrated by militaries and governments worldwide, has repeatedly condemned the war and accused the Russian military of carrying out a "litany of violations" in Ukraine -- a charge Moscow denies.

Among other organisations labelled as "undesirable" in Russia are the World Wildlife Fund, Greenpeace, Amnesty International and the Elton John AIDS Foundation.

The label makes anyone who works with a group or donates money to them liable to prosecution in Russia.
Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Netflix has quietly added a new film thats been hailed as one of the best of the year.

On Friday (28 November), the streaming service released Left-Handed Girl, a family comedy drama that made waves on its premiere at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival back in May.

The Taiwanese film is written and directed by Shih-Ching Tsou, who regularly collaborates with Sean Baker, the Oscar-winning indie filmmaker whose Anora won Best Picture earlier this year. Baker co-wrote Left-Handed Girl.

Left-Handed Girl has been in the works since Tsou co-directed Take Out with Baker in 2004. It follows a five-year-old girl (Nina Ye) who, along with her sister (Shih-Yuan Ma) and their mother (Janel Tsai), relocates from the serene countryside to bustling Taipei, where they open a noodle shop amid a night market.

The film follows the trio as they adapt to their new environment.

Collider hailed Left-Handed Girl as one of the best solo directing debuts of the year, with The Spectator adding that the film is tender without ever being sentimental.

Meanwhile, The Times said the film has a rebellious spirit and sense of mischief, and identified Yes performance as a standout.

Speaking to Netflix about the inspiration behind the film, Tsou said: Growing up in Taiwan, I often felt confined by tradition and expectations, especially as a girl. I was taught to stay quiet, to follow the rules, to not take up space or draw attention.

But looking back, I see how those limitations shaped me. They taught me to observe, to listen between the lines, and, most importantly, to give voice to those who couldnt speak up.

She concluded that returning to Taiwan to make Left-Handed Girl felt like reconnecting with that quiet version of myself, and finally telling her story out loud.

Left-Handed Girl is on Netflix ( Netflix )

To best capture the familys dynamic, Tsou shunned formal rehearsals for something more unique.

I asked each cast member to bring their most intense family experiences into the characters. I also chose not to overly bond the cast beforehand; sometimes a bit of distance helped preserve the natural tension and kept their interactions feeling more organic.

Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 9.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent.

Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 9.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent.

Tsou said that the emotional tension  the love, the frustration, the silence  was exactly what I wanted them to carry into every scene, adding: And they did, beautifully.

Left-Handed Girl is available to stream on Netflix now.
Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Every holiday season, one song dominates the airwaves, department store playlists and festive parties: Mariah Careys 1994 hit All I Want for Christmas Is You.

Despite being released three decades ago, Carey is still reaping the benefits of the record-breaking Christmas classic, pulling in an estimated millions of dollars in royalties each year.

Each year, Carey earns an estimated $2.5 to $3 million from royalties for the song, according to data from Forbes and The Economist.

As of 2017, the song had generated over $60 million through royalties since its release, according to an estimate by The Economist. Careys co-writer, Walter Afanasieff, is also expected to make a significant chunk of royalties. It is the most-streamed holiday track of all time.

In November each year, Carey shares a video on social media informing her followers that the holiday season can begin. This years offering showed Carey disciplining an unruly elf for stealing her lipstick, singing the phrase its time in a high-pitched voice before riding off in a sleigh.

open image in gallery Mariah Carey celebrates the start of the 2025 holiday season in her latest social media post ( Mariah Carey )

open image in gallery Mariah Carey performs at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards in September ( Getty Images for MTV )

She also embarks on an annual festive tour, with this years installment, Mariah Carey's Christmas Time, taking place at Dolby Live in Las Vegas from November 28 to December 13.

All I Want for Christmas is You is the highest-charting holiday single by a solo artist on the Billboard U.S. Hot 100 and routinely lands on the music charts in dozens of countries year after year.

The Christmas anthem made history in 2021, when it became the first and only holiday song to win the RIAAs Diamond Award, which recognizes 10 million sales and streaming units in the U.S.

After receiving the honor, the pop star said that the continued love for her song never ceases to amaze me and fill my heart with a multitude of emotions.

Enjoy unlimited access to 100 million ad-free songs and podcasts with Amazon Music Sign up now for a 30-day free trial. Terms apply. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent.

Enjoy unlimited access to 100 million ad-free songs and podcasts with Amazon Music Sign up now for a 30-day free trial. Terms apply. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent.

It blows my mind that All I Want For Christmas is You has endured different eras of the music industry, she said.

She went on to perform the song at the Billboard Music Awards in 2023, marking her first awards show performance for the song, with her twins, son Moroccan and daughter Monroe, presenting her with a special Billboard Chart Achievement award.
Photo: https://x.com/donaldtusk/status/1990100326171459782

The Polish National Prosecutors Office has launched a search warrant for the arrest of 41-year-old Yevhen Ivanov and 39-year-old Oleksandr Kononov, Ukrainian citizens suspected of sabotage on the railway, the PAP news agency reported on Friday, citing the spokesman for the National Prosecutors Office, Przemysaw Nowak.

It is suspected that both men fled to Belarus.

Nowak recalled that on Thursday the court granted the prosecutors request and applied a temporary arrest to the two suspects in sabotage on the railway infrastructure. He added that "on this basis, the prosecutor launched a search using a wanted letter" for 41-year-old Yevhen Ivanov and 39-year-old Oleksandr Kononov.

The men are suspected of damaging the tracks with an explosive device near the village of Mika in the Masovian Voivodeship, as well as in a second incident that occurred near Pulaw in the village of Holub, also on railway line No. 7, connecting Warsaw with Dorohusk.

The men, who worked for Russian intelligence and fled to Belarus, face life imprisonment. On November 19, a note was handed over to the Belarusian charge daffaires requesting the extradition of both men.
Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Characters from Julia Donaldson and Axel Schefflers acclaimed picture books are set to grace BBC One and BBC iPlayer this Christmas, featuring in three brand new idents and a dedicated animated special.

The festive season will see familiar faces from The Gruffalo and Zog bring a touch of magic to viewers.

The new advertising idents, crafted by Magic Light Pictures with animation by Triggerfish Animation studios, will showcase a range of popular figures. One ident unites characters from The Gruffalo, The Gruffalos Child, and Stick Man.

A second features Zog, Pearl, and Gadabout from Zog And The Flying Doctors, alongside Witch from Room On The Broom, while the third sees Harry OHay and Betty OBarley from The Scarecrows Wedding receive a visit from Santa.

These enchanting idents are scheduled to premiere on BBC One and BBC iPlayer immediately following Strictly Come Dancing on Sunday, November 30, and will be broadcast throughout the Christmas period.

Kate Phillips, BBCs chief content officer, expressed her delight, stating: "Magic Light have done the BBC proud and created three unforgettable idents that beautifully capture the festive spirit. Featuring a selection of Julia Donaldson and Axel Schefflers most popular characters, I hope they will spread some extra joy and togetherness into homes across the UK."

Julia Donaldson has sold over 13 million copies of her book The Gruffalo ( Getty )

This years animated Christmas special will be The Scarecrows Wedding, a half-hour adaptation about two devoted scarecrows, Betty OBarley and Harry OHay, whose wedding plans are disrupted by the arrival of a mischievous scarecrow named Reginald Rakes.

The special boasts a star-studded voice cast, including Rob Brydon as Reginald Rake, Irish actress Jessie Buckley as Betty OBarley, Domhnall Gleeson as Harry OHay, and Sophie Okonedo as the Narrator.

Directed by Samantha Cutler and Jeroen Jaspaert, and adapted by Steven Bloomer, the special was produced by Barney Goodland and Michael Rose of Magic Light Pictures. Martin Pope, joint chief executive at Magic Light Pictures, added: "Its a real joy to see our much-loved characters returning to the BBC this Christmas. These new idents capture the heart of what makes the stories so special: imagination, warmth and wonder; and they also celebrate BBC iPlayer as the home of Gruffalo and Friends, where families can enjoy the entire wonderful collection of specials together."

Throughout the festive period, BBC One and BBC iPlayer will also air all 13 animated film adaptations based on Donaldson and Schefflers books, including classics such as The Gruffalo, Room On The Broom, and Zog, culminating in the premiere of The Scarecrows Wedding.
Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Welsh actor Ioan Gruffudd and his wife, actress Bianca Wallace, have announced the birth of their first child.

The couple, who married in April 2025, revealed via a shared Instagram post that their daughter, Mila Mae Gruffudd, arrived a month early on 2 November.

Gruffudd, 52, is best known for his portrayal of Reed Richards in the Fantastic Four film series.

They shared on social media: November was a biggie Daddy and Mummy: Completely and totally in love with our tiny little angel.

Extremely grateful this thanksgiving.

The actor, from Aberdare, confirmed his romance with Wallace in 2021 when he shared a photo of them sat together and wrote: Thank you for making me smile again.

Welsh actor Ioan Gruffudd and actress Bianca Wallace attend the 31st Annual Race to Erase MS Gala held at Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles on May 10, 2024. (Photo by Michael Tran / AFP) (Photo by MICHAEL TRAN/AFP via Getty Images) ( AFP via Getty Images )

The pair star in drama A Ray Of Sunshine, about a woman coming to terms with her multiple sclerosis diagnosis, a lifelong condition Wallace was diagnosed with at the age of 25.

In March 2021, Gruffudd filed for divorce from actress Alice Evans.

The couples relationship had hit the headlines in January of that year after Evans tweeted, and then deleted, a post to say Gruffudd was leaving her and their two children.

Gruffudd and Evans met on the set of 2000 film 102 Dalmatians and had been married since 2007.

The Welsh actor has credits in films including Black Hawk Down, Titanic, Horrible Bosses, and San Andreas.

He has also starred in ITV thriller Liar as Andrew Earlham and played a forensic pathologist in ABC drama Harrow.
Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

Italian fashion powerhouse Armani has announced the formation of a new board, tasked with steering the company through a pivotal period of transition following the death of its founder, Giorgio Armani, earlier this year.

The eight-member board, selected by the Armani Foundation and the designers heirs, includes high-profile figures such as former Armani top executive John Hooks and Marco Bizzarri, the former CEO of Gucci.

Other appointees are Chairman Leo DellOrco, CEO and managing director Giuseppe Marsocci, Armanis niece Silvana and nephew Andrea Camerana, Yoox founder Federico Marchetti, and businessman Angelo Moratti.

This strategic move comes after Giorgio Armanis passing at the age of 91 in September, which saw long-time manager Marsocci appointed as the new chief executive. The new board and Marsocci now lead one of Italys most valuable and renowned fashion empires at a critical juncture.

The late designer had instructed his heirs to sell an initial 15 per cent minority stake in his vast business within 18 months of his death, with eyewear giant Essilor-Luxottica, French conglomerate LVMH, or cosmetics company LOreal identified as preferred buyers.

Commenting on the appointments, DellOrco stated on Friday that the boards composition "represents the best guarantee for the continuation, enhancement, and modernisation of the idea of beauty, the business model, and the ethical values developed by Mr. Armani over 50 years of history."

Armani Chairman Pantaleo DellOrco, left, and Giorgio Armani's niece Silvana Armani ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved )

At the time of his death, Armanis fortune was estimated at $12.1bn (9bn). He remained sole shareholder and chief executive of the house he created in 1975, presiding over an empire that stretched from Emporio and Armani Exchange to haute couture, hotels, restaurants, cosmetics and homeware.

He had been in declining health and was forced to withdraw from Milan Mens Fashion Week in June  the first time in his career he had missed a show in the city where his career began.

With infinite sorrow, the Armani Group announces the passing of its creator, founder, and tireless driving force: Giorgio Armani, the fashion house said in a statement.

During his illustrious career, Armani designed outfits for the likes of Richard Gere, Beyonce, Julia Roberts, Demi Moore and Grace Jones.
The great Guinness revival should have been the kind of unqualified success story the British pub trade rarely gets any more. A drink once relegated to the old man end of the bar has become the defining pint of a new generation, its creamy dome and slow-setting body turning up everywhere from TikTok feeds to celebrity Instagram posts. Kim Kardashian drinks it. The Princess of Wales has been photographed necking one. You can hardly move for twenty-somethings filming the crema settle at Guinness pilgrimage sites like The Devonshire. Gen Z has given the black stuff something money cant buy: cultural clout.

But behind the aesthetic pours and viral perfect pint hunts lies a more awkward truth. Guinness might be cooler than ever, but it has also become one of the most expensive drinks for pubs to stock  and one of the hardest for cash-strapped young drinkers to justify. At the very moment the stout achieved near-mythic status, the people pouring it and the people buying it are finding it increasingly difficult to afford.

That tension has now erupted into a full-blown price war, with Heineken-owned Murphys quietly muscling its way onto British bars by offering something almost unthinkable: a stout that makes pubs more money.

So, what happens when Britains most fashionable pint becomes unsustainable for the very people who made it famous?

Guinnesss unlikely cultural renaissance has been building for a while. Its shift from heritage pint to Gen Z calling card is well documented: the TikTok hunt for the perfect pour, the obsessive ranking of pubs based on head height and temperature. Guinness has always had brand power, but this was different. It wasnt loyalty; it was fandom. Guinness has become the matcha latte of the pub: a status drink, endlessly photographed, fetishised for its ritual, and often consumed more for the performance than the pint itself.

The numbers tell the story. Guinness overtook Carling in 2022 to become the bestselling beer in British pubs. It now accounts for one in every nine pints poured across the UK. A drink once dismissed as niche is now a cultural phenomenon.

But success has consequences, and pubs are the ones feeling them. What most drinkers dont realise is that Guinness is, for many operators, the least profitable drink on the bar. Publicans report that wholesale prices have risen repeatedly, leaving them with razor-thin margins. Speaking to The Times, one pub company figure called Guinness incredibly expensive, adding that pubs have nowhere to turn in a negotiation because the brand knows it has them in a chokehold. Another said it is the lowest percentage margin product in most pubs range.

The numbers again are striking. An 88-pint keg of Guinness now costs between 150 and 155, while the equivalent keg of Murphys costs 130 to 135  roughly 20 per cent cheaper. Drinkers might assume Murphys is priced lower at the bar because its a lesser-known brand; in reality, pubs cant convince customers to pay Guinness money for a non-Guinness product.

Meanwhile, some London pubs are charging 7 to 8 for a pint of Guinness, while the national average sits somewhere between 5.75 and 5.13, depending on the venue. If ever there was a pint that illustrated the cost-of-drinking crisis, its the one that currently tops every bar chart. The irony, of course, is that the more Gen Z has hyped up Guinness, the more its desirability  and scarcity  have nudged the price upwards. When a drink becomes social currency, it rarely stays affordable for long.

open image in gallery Guinness is more than a product; its a footfall generator ( Guinness/Diageo )

And yet, pubs cant simply remove it. Guinness is more than a product; its a footfall generator. Its a bind familiar to many operators: Guinness makes the least profit, but ditching it risks losing loyal customers altogether. The brand is so powerful, so culturally entrenched, that even when its bad for the bottom line, pubs keep pouring it.

This is precisely the vulnerability Heineken spotted. A nationwide shortage of Guinness in late 2024 and early 2025 left pubs scrambling. Thats when Murphys moved. Heinekens sales director, Will Rice, said that hundreds of new pubs began stocking Murphys during the shortage. By November 2025, the number had risen to 1,550 outlets, according to internal Heineken data. James Nye, managing director of Anglian Country Inns, said that Guinness keeps putting price increase after price increase through, adding that the brand is outpricing themselves in the market.

Murphys isnt pretending to be anything new. Its a classic Irish stout, founded in 1856 and bought by Heineken in 1983, similar enough to Guinness in flavour and appearance to satisfy the casual drinker. But its appeal to pubs is obvious: cheaper to buy, easier to make money on, a safety valve during a time of soaring energy costs and labour bills. What Murphys doesnt have, of course, is a small army of content creators breathlessly declaring it elite every weekend. And in 2025, that seems to matter almost as much as taste.

Whether it can truly challenge Guinness is another matter. Its a good product, but its not Guinness. And, crucially, drinkers know it.

The Guinness-Murphys rivalry isnt just a competitive skirmish between two stout producers. Its a symptom of a much bigger change in British drinking culture; one that becomes more apparent the moment you look at the rise of the 60/40 pint.

When a Dublin pub posted a video of its new 60/40 Guinness  a blend of 60 per cent Guinness 0.0 and 40 per cent regular Guinness  it divided the internet instantly. The hybrid pour drops the ABV from the usual 4.2 per cent to roughly 1.7 per cent. For some drinkers, especially younger ones, this was ingenious: all the flavour, less alcohol and presumably a cheaper round. For others, it was illegal and a load of nonsense. Part of the fury comes from older drinkers who feel the Guinness they grew up with has been hijacked by a generation who treat it like liquid merch.

But the backlash misses the point. The 60/40 pint isnt a gimmick. Its part of a broader shift towards moderation, the same cultural current that has driven the rise of low-alcohol beer, no-and-low spirits and the steady normalisation of drinking less. Forty-four per cent of UK adults now choose no-and-low alcohol options, up from 31 per cent in 2018.

When you step back, the contradictions pile up. Guinness is riding its biggest popularity wave in decades, but becoming increasingly unaffordable for the pubs serving it and the people drinking it. Gen Z has turned stout into a cultural obsession while also drinking less alcohol overall. Diageo, the drinks giant behind Guinness, is relying heavily on the stouts runaway success at a time when its spirit business is struggling, its share price has fallen by more than 25 per cent in a year and it has appointed former Tesco boss Sir Dave Lewis to spearhead a turnaround. Among traditional drinkers, theres a growing resentment that the younger generations glossy Guinness worship has helped push the pint into hype territory, driving up demand, fuelling shortages and turning a simple pub order into a minor performance. Guinness hasnt changed, but the culture swirling around it has.

The stout boom was supposed to be uncomplicated  a heritage brand reborn through sheer modern relevance. Instead, it has exposed the fragile economics of the British pub, the contradictions of a generation that both drives trends and resents high prices, and the limits of even the strongest brand loyalty when the cost of a pint threatens to outpace its cultural value.

The real question now isnt whether Murphys can dethrone Guinness. Its whether any pub can afford to keep pouring the pint that Gen Z turned into a phenomenon. If even Guinness feels the squeeze, the future of the British pint may be entering its most precarious era yet.
Sign up to our free Living Well email for advice on living a happier, healthier and longer life Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

A mother-of-five has been diagnosed with incurable cancer after her symptoms were mistaken for perimenopause and she was told to double her hormone replacement therapy (HRT) treatment.

Crystal Portsmouth, 50, had suffered chronic anaemia, painful periods and exhaustion for years, but said she was told by her GP this was due to fibroids - non-cancerous growths in or around the womb.

The social care practitioner from Wiltshire was told to try the Mirena coil to alleviate the heavy bleeding during her periods, and was prescribed iron tablets for anaemia, but her symptoms persisted, and the coil caused urinary tract infections (UTIs).

After the coil was removed, Crystal said her GP thought her symptoms were perimenopause-related and she was prescribed HRT, which she was told to double later on  but when she collapsed at work in April 2023, she knew it was something more serious.

After blood tests, scans and a bone marrow biopsy, it was revealed she had a myeloma, an incurable blood cancer, in July 2024.

open image in gallery Crystal wants to raise more awareness of myeloma ( Collect/PA Real Life )

Her treatment has so far involved intensive chemotherapy and a stem cell transplant. Crystal is in remission and undergoing maintenance chemotherapy, but she has joined blood cancer charity Myeloma UKs Christmas Appeal in a bid to help get people diagnosed sooner.

Speaking about her diagnosis, she said: I just couldnt believe it, and I still dont believe it.

Every day when you wake up, you think its a dream and its real. A few times weve said, When are we going to wake up?

When I look back through my NHS app, you think, crikey, its screaming out but (the signs of myeloma) were never picked up.

Id say to others, learn to listen to your body and push for answers if you think somethings not right.

open image in gallery Crystal said her husband Scott has been an amazing support ( Collect/PA Real Life )

Crystal said she had suffered heavy periods for years and experienced flooding, when she would bleed through both tampons and pads, but was told by her GP that this was due to fibroids.

She said she would hope (her) shifts didnt fall on (her) period, but if they did, she would take spare clothes to work in case she bled through her sanitary products.

It was embarrassing and I was struggling to work when my period was due because of the amount of blood I was losing, she said.

Over the years, Id been anaemic and had iron tablets, but around seven years ago, I was in Tesco and I had to leave because I had flooding.

So I went to the doctors and they said about the Mirena coil, but then I started getting UTIs and I was constantly on antibiotics.

open image in gallery Crystal and her family two Christmases ago before her diagnosis ( Collect/PA Real Life )

After the coil  an intrauterine device inserted into the womb  was removed, she said her GP thought her symptoms were related to perimenopause, and she was prescribed HRT.

During this time, she was also diagnosed with cellulitis  an infection in the deeper layers of skin  multiple times, but this was treated with antibiotics.

She said: I used to think, What is wrong with my immune system? But then you just rationalise these things.

According to Myeloma UK, common symptoms can include pain, fatigue, kidney damage and recurring infection, but with no family history of cancer, Crystal never suspected she could have the disease.

When the heavy bleeding returned with her periods, along with night sweats, she knew this was her body saying something was really wrong  but when she spoke to her GP, she said she was advised to double her HRT.

open image in gallery Crystal in hospital ( Collect/PA Real Life )

It was not until she collapsed at work in April 2023 that she knew she needed to seek further help.

I was stood in the locker room and I just fell on the floor, she explained.

I rolled my ankle, so they X-rayed my ankle, and I said, Im in my 40s. How can I be stood still and fall over?.

She said she later asked for a full blood count and was referred to the haematology department at the Royal United Hospital (RUH) in Bath, where PET and CT scans revealed Crystal had a fracture in her pelvis.

She had more blood tests taken but was in denial that she could have cancer.

open image in gallery Crystal during treatment ( Collect/PA Real Life )

I thought it was hormonal, I thought maybe it is perimenopause, and maybe it is linked to my periods and HRT would make it better, but it was just so unusual, she said.

I think after so many years, you dont know what to think, and even when my colleague said it could be cancer, I just said, No, theres no cancer in our family, its not that.

It was terrible, I was just in denial.

After a bone marrow biopsy, it was confirmed in July 2024 that Crystal had myeloma, and from that moment her feet didnt touch the ground.

She said hearing she had an incurable cancer felt like an out-of-body experience, but she did not have time to process it as she began intensive treatment almost straight away.

open image in gallery Crystal eating ice lollies during treatment to help with any ulcers ( Collect/PA Real Life )

Crystal was enrolled in the Radar clinical trial at the RUH, and received a stem cell transplant in January 2025, but the side effects of her treatment meant she had missed her grandsons first Christmas.

All these major events were passing me by and I was really struggling, but I kept going, Crystal said.

Now Ive completed it and Im on maintenance, and I have to have an infusion every fortnight.

She said she felt angry for a period of time, but is now focusing on the present and adjusting to a new normal.

She is looking forward to spending Christmas with her family and grandson, as she missed the celebrations last year, and is planning a phased return to work from next week.

open image in gallery Crystal is looking forward to her second Christmas with grandson, Roman ( Collect/PA Real Life )

She is also hoping to raise awareness with Myeloma UK as, despite being the third most common type of blood cancer, the charity says myeloma is frequently missed as its symptoms are vague.

Crystal said: Its not how we envisaged our life. Last year we had just gone to Italy, my husband and I, and we were thinking, The kids are all grown up now, its you and me  and then literally just a week later, I was in haematology at RUH.

It has changed me and I know that when I go back (to work), Im not the same person that I was.

But Im just trying to get back to some kind of normality after this massive, life-changing diagnosis.

Ive got my faith and Im used to bouncing back.

To find out more about Myeloma UKs Christmas Appeal, visit: myeloma.org.uk/xmasappeal.

For more information about myeloma or to get in touch with Myeloma UK, visit myeloma.org.uk or call its infoline on 0800 980 3332.
The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

An American man was killed in Trinidad and Tobago this week after reportedly leaving his friends to buy marijuana, according to reports.

Christopher Brown, a 43-year-old builder from Colorado, was found dead Wednesday night in Castara, a small village on the island of Tobago, according to a police report reviewed by the Associated Press. Police believe he was stabbed, and are investigating his death as a suspected murder.

The report said Brown had dinner and drinks with his friends in Castara on Wednesday evening before leaving the group. Brown reportedly told his friends he was leaving to buy marijuana.

Officers from the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service found Brown unresponsive around 10:30 p.m. Brown had several wounds on his body, and a metal object was protruding from his back, the AP reports. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

A 24-year-old man has been held in connection with Browns death, the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service told The Independent. Investigators have not revealed the suspects identity.

open image in gallery Christopher Brown, a 43-year-old from Colorado, was found dead on Wednesday night ( Getty Images )

Authorities have not said when Brown arrived on the island, or whether he was visiting, according to CBS News.

A spokesperson at the U.S. Embassy in Trinidad and Tobago told The Independent that officials are aware of the death of an American citizen in Tobago this week.

We are working with the TTPS, and would like to thank Chief Secretary Farley Augustine, the TTPS, and other officials of the Government of Trinidad and Tobago for their assistance, the spokesperson said. The embassy offers its condolences to the family of the deceased, and asks the public to respect the privacy of the family and friends of the deceased at this difficult time.

Tobagos Division of Tourism, Culture, Antiquities and Transportation released a statement Thursday that appeared to address the incident, but did not identify Brown by name.

In the statement, the agency condemned the tragic murder of a foreign national in the peaceful community of Castara.

This is the first such act of violence in idyllic Castara, a community known for its safe and welcoming environment and a community which stands as a pillar of community tourism excellence, the statement reads.

There have been 330 homicides in Trinidad and Tobago so far this year, according to police data reviewed by the AP. The nation is also under a state of emergency, with officials citing concerns about an alleged criminal network within the countrys prisons, the outlet reports.

This article was updated on November 28 to include comment from the U.S. Embassy in Trinidad and Tobago and the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service
The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

The dramatic moment National Guard members traded fire with a gunman in Washington, D.C., on Thanksgiving Eve has been caught on video.

Two West Virginia National Guard members were shot, just blocks from the White House, Wednesday afternoon. U.S. Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, died from her injuries, while U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, remains in critical condition, President Donald Trump said Thursday.

Photos and video, obtained by The Wall Street Journal, shows National Guard members reacting to the attack and running down the street. The footage appears to have been taken by a witness who was inside a car driving past the street corner.

The shooter can be seen looking around the corner, holding a revolver in his right hand, while a National Guard member runs down the street.

Seconds later, the National Guard member can be seen firing shots back at the attacker. The video also shows fallen National Guard members lying on the street, the WSJ reports.

open image in gallery U.S. Marshalls and National Guard troops are seen after reports of two National Guard soldiers shot near the White House in Washington, D.C. ( AP )

open image in gallery Police have identified 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal as the suspected shooter ( Reuters )

The suspected gunman came around the corner, raised his arm with a firearm and discharged at the National Guard members, according to Jeffery Carroll, the executive assistant chief of the Metropolitan Police Department. The video of the incident corresponds with Carrolls account, the WSJ reports.

Investigators have identified the suspected shooter as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national who entered the U.S. in 2021 and was living in Bellingham, Washington. Lakanwal was taken to a local hospital in the aftermath of the shooting, and is now in custody.

The incident was described as a brazen, targeted attack, by D.C. Attorney General Jeanine Pirro, who announced Friday that Lakanwal will face a first-degree murder charge.

open image in gallery Evidence markers sit on the ground after two National Guard members were shot near the White House ( Reuters )

open image in gallery Officers handle police tape at the scene of the shooting in downtown Washington, D.C., on Wednesday ( AFP via Getty Images )

He was previously charged with three counts of assault with intent to kill while armed and three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence.

Trump announced Thursday that Beckstrom died from her injuries, calling her a highly respected, young, magnificent person and outstanding in every way.

Shes just passed away, the president said. Shes no longer with us. Shes looking down at us right now. She was savagely attacked, shes dead now.

Attorney General Pam Bondi told Fox News that the 20-year-old had volunteered to work in D.C. during the Thanksgiving holiday week. Beckstrom was caring and tenderhearted, her former boyfriend, Adam Carr, told The New York Times. The 20-year-old enjoyed nature and road trips, and dreamed of having a career in the FBI, according to Carr.

open image in gallery National Guard members and other personnel stand outside of the MedStar Washington Hospital Center after the death of West Virginia National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom ( REUTERS )

Meanwhile, Wolfe is still fighting for his life and in very bad shape, Trump added. He joined the National Guard in February 2019 and serves as a U.S. Air Force staff sergeant assigned to the Force Support Squadron, 167th Airlift Wing.

Andy is easily one of the strongest, determined and God-fearing men I know. I have no doubt he has the willpower in him to come out on top of this, his friend, Brooke Davison, told The New York Times.

Law enforcement officials have described the attack as an ambush, and are investigating it as an act of terrorism.

Lakanwal is believed to have arrived in the U.S. four years ago under former President Joe Bidens administration, following the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. Lakanwal had worked with the U.S. government, including the CIA, as a member of a partner force in Kandahar, Afghanistan, CIA Director John Ratcliffe said.

Lakanwal applied for asylum in 2024, and was granted it earlier this year under the Trump administration.

Following the attack, Trump said his administration will reexamine every single alien from Afghanistan who has entered our country under Biden and we must take all necessary measures to ensure the removal of any alien from any country who does not belong here or add benefit to our country.
Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

The Trump administration has halted all decisions regarding migrants seeking asylum in the wake of the shooting of two National Guard members. The suspected shooter, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, is an Afghan national who was granted asylum earlier this year.

Citizenship and Immigration Services Director Joseph B. Edlow wrote on X Friday evening, USCIS has halted all asylum decisions until we can ensure that every alien is vetted and screened to the maximum degree possible. The safety of the American people always comes first.

A notice sent to asylum officers, and obtained by CBS News, explicitly tells them not to enter any decision information for affirmative cases.

Immigrants who are not involved in removal proceedings can apply for affirmative asylum with Citizenship and Immigration Services, which is under the Homeland Security Department. Applications in defensive cases are filed by immigrants facing deportation and are decided by immigration judges under the direction of the Department of Justice.

More than 1 million people are awaiting decisions on their asylum applications, according to a 2024 report from Homeland Security. From those cases, more than 786,000 people were waiting more than 180 days for a decision in their affirmative asylum cases.

open image in gallery The Trump administration has halted all decisions regarding migrants seeking asylum in the wake of the shooting of two National Guard members, allegedly by an Afghan national who was granted asylum earlier this year ( Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images )

The man suspected of shooting two West Virginia National Guard members one fatally  near the White House Wednesday, likely underwent extensive vetting as a CIA asset and again as he sought asylum in the United States.

CIA Director John Ratcliffe said Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, worked with the CIA in Afghanistan, which almost certainly would have required extensive vetting.

He was also likely vetted when he received asylum under Trump earlier this year.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and FBI director Kash Patel have both suggested in recent congressional testimony that the administration had carefully scrutinized thousands of Afghan refugees.

During my tenure, we are going through the databases to make sure that no known or suspected terrorists enter this country to harm our nation, Patel told the Senate Judiciary Committee in September.

Trump administration officials now appear to be walking that back.

open image in gallery Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national who came to the U.S. in 2021, has been accused of the DC shooting ( US Attorney's Office )

U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C. Jeanine Pirro disputed the idea that Lakanwal had received any vetting at all in an interview with Fox News on Friday morning.

Pirro also said Lakanwal will face a first-degree murder charge after Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, died from her injuries. The other guardsman who was shot, Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, 24, remains in critical condition.

Joe Kent, the director of the National Counterterrorism Center, claimed that Lakanwal was only vetted by the intelligence community to serve as a soldier but not for his suitability to come to America and live among us as a neighbor, integrate into our communities, or eventually become an American citizen.

open image in gallery National Guard members, Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe (left) and Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom (right), were shot near the White House Wednesday ( U.S. Attorneys Office )

Noem said Lakanwal came to the U.S. in 2021 under Operation Allies Welcome, a Biden-era program that helped resettle Afghans who had assisted the U.S. in its fight against the Taliban. The program has taken in about 76,000 people.

In the immediate aftermath of the shooting, Trump railed against former President Joe Biden for the program.

He was flown in by the Biden administration in September 2021 on those infamous flights that everybody was talking about. Nobody knew who was coming in, Trump said.

The president then warned in a Truth Social post Thursday, I will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries.

Trump also said hed remove anyone who is not a net asset to the United States, or is incapable of loving our Country and deport any Foreign National who is a public charge, security risk, or non-compatible with Western Civilization.

Homeland Security officials said Trump has ordered a widespread review of asylum cases approved under the Biden administration and green cards issued to citizens from 19 countries, according to Reuters. The citizens of these countries, including Afghanistan, are all subject to a travel ban Trump imposed in June.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent also announced his agencys crackdown on undocumented migrants receiving federal tax benefits.

The Treasury Department will issue proposed regulations clarifying that the refunded portions of certain individual income tax benefits are no longer available to illegal and other non-qualified aliens, he said.
The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

A Florida man has pleaded guilty to charges stemming from a years-long Ponzi scheme that defrauded international investors out of more than $94 million, prosecutors said.

Andrew Hamilton Jacobus, a 64-year-old from Fort Lauderdale, pleaded guilty to wire fraud and money laundering charges on November 14, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office, Southern District of Florida. Jacobus carried out the scheme between 2004 and 2023, prosecutors said.

Prosecutors said Jacobus targeted several clients  primarily Venezuelan nationals  with his Ponzi scheme, including a nonprofit dedicated to supporting Venezuelan Catholic priests retirement and healthcare, according to court documents reviewed by the Miami Herald.

A Ponzi scheme is a type of scam orchestrated by a fraudster who approaches investors and promises high rates of return. The scammer then pays the original investors with funds from new investors, giving the impression their investments have shot up in value, according to the Cornell Legal Information Institute. The fraudster pays earlier investors with funds from later investors until the scheme inevitably collapses.

The scheme takes its name from the con artist Charles Ponzi, who defrauded thousands of investors in the 1920s.

Andrew Hamilton Jacobus pleaded guilty to wire fraud and money laundering charges earlier this month ( Getty/iStock )

Jacobus falsely portrayed himself as a seasoned financial advisor managing legitimate investment portfolios, and misappropriated investor funds for personal use and to pay returns to earlier investors in classic Ponzi-scheme fashion, the U.S. Attorneys Office said.

The 64-year-old also forged account statements, falsified documentation, and diverted client funds to luxury personal expenditures and Ponzi payments, according to prosecutors.

A factual statement  which was filed in court and signed by Jacobus, his attorney and a prosecutor  describes the 64-year-olds mismanagement of investors funds, according to the Miami Herald.

To conceal his fraud, Jacobus would create and provide to the victims fictitious account statements or balances purporting to show the investment portfolio and related balances, when in fact the victims accounts had significantly smaller balances, the statement reads.

In one example, a Venezuelan investor moved $1 million into a bank account in 2020 based on the defendants false representations that the money would be used for investment purposes, according to a court document reviewed by the Miami Herald. But instead of investing it, Jacobus moved $120,000 from the account to pay other investors as part of the Ponzi scheme, according to the filing.

Jacobus has also been sued in civil court and has been sanctioned by the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Miami Herald reports. He was initially arrested in July, according to the Internal Revenue Service.

Jacobus faces up to 20 years in federal prison for each count, prosecutors said. He must also repay his victims and help investigators track down the stolen funds, according to the Miami Herald.

His attorney, Bruce Lehr, declined to comment when contacted via phone by The Independent on Friday. The Independent has contacted the U.S. Attorneys Office, Southern District of Florida for comment.
The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

A U.S. influencer who posted a video of herself snatching a baby wombat from its mother in Australia earlier this year has been arrested in Wyoming.

Sam Strable, who goes by Sam Jones online and describes herself as an outdoor enthusiast & hunter, was booked into the county jail in Sublette on November 21, according to local media.

Earlier this year, the 25-year-olds Australian visa was placed under immediate review by the countrys government after the video went viral and caused outrage. Strable later shut down her social media accounts due to the backlash.

She has now been accused of falsely declaring she lived in Wyoming to obtain several state resident hunting licenses, according to court documents.

Strable has been charged with eight misdemeanours, including six counts of false swearing and one count each of taking wildlife without a license. In addition, she has been charged with nonresident hunting without a guide in a wilderness area.

open image in gallery Sam Strabel, a U.S. influencer who posted a video of herself snatching a baby wombat from its mother in Australia earlier this year has been arrested in Wyoming ( Sublette County Sheriff's Office )

Court records indicate that she was, in fact, listed as living in Great Falls, Montana.

According to Wyoming laws, an individual must live in the Cowboy State for a full calendar year before they can apply for a resident hunting license. Non-residents may not hunt in the wilderness areas of Wyoming without a guide.

Strables notoriety skyrocketed back in March of this year following her Instagram video.

In it, she is seen lifting the wombat joey by its front legs in the darkness from a roadside, then running away from its mother. I caught a baby wombat, she said as a man filming her laughed. She returns the wombat to the roadside after several seconds.

The backlash forced Strabel to close her social media channels, with Australian Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke telling the press her visa was under review.

The department is now working through the conditions on her current visa and determining whether immigration law has been breached, Burke said in a statement received by The Associated Press at the time.

I cant wait for Australia to see the back of this individual, I dont expect she will return, he added.

open image in gallery In the viral video Strable was seen lifting the wombat joey by its front legs in darkness from a roadside then runs away from its mother. I caught a baby wombat, she said as a man filming her laughs. She returns the wombat to the roadside after several seconds ( AAP IMAGE )

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also criticized Strables actions. To take a baby wombat from its mother, and clearly causing distress from the mother, is just an outrage, Albanese told reporters.

I suggest to this so-called influencer, maybe she might try some other Australian animals. Take a baby crocodile from its mother and see how you go there. Take another animal that can actually fight back rather than stealing a baby wombat from its mother, Albanese added.

The wombat appeared to be common, also known as a bare-nosed wombat. It is a protected marsupial found only in Australia.

Yolandi Vermaak, founder of the animal care charity Wombat Rescue, said separating the young wombat from its mother created a risk that the mother would reject her offspring.

My biggest concern is that we didnt actually see mom and baby getting reunited. When she put it down, it looked disoriented. It was turned away from where the mother was last seen. So we dont know if mom and baby actually found each other again, Vermaak told Australian Broadcasting Corp.
Photo: https://nypost.com/

US President Donald Trump is ready to recognize Russian control over Crimea and other occupied territories of Ukraine as part of a "peace plan," The Telegraph ezine reports, citing sources.

"The United States is poised to recognise Russias control over Crimea and other occupied Ukrainian territories to secure a deal to end the war. The Telegraph understands that Donald Trump has sent his peace envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner to make the direct offer to Vladimir Putin in Moscow," the report said.

It is noted that Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that Washingtons legal recognition of Crimea, Donetsk and Luhansk regions as Russian territory would be one of the key issues in negotiations on the US presidents peace plan.

The Kremlin also said on Friday that it had received a revised strategy for ending the war, developed after emergency talks between Ukrainian and American officials last weekend in Geneva.

In Geneva, Ukrainian and American officials agreed on a new 19-point plan that is less favorable to Moscow. But multiple sources suggest that the American proposals for recognition remain part of the strategy.

It also noted that Kyiv would not be forced to recognize Russian control over the territories it has illegally annexed since 2014. Ukraines constitution prohibits any president or government from ceding territory without first putting the issue to voters in a nationwide referendum.

"Andriy Yermak, the Ukrainian presidents chief of staff, and Rustem Umerov, his national security adviser, were expected to fly to Florida to meet US officials at Mr Trumps Mar-a-Lago resort this weekend," the publication added.
Sign up to our free weekly IndyTech newsletter delivered straight to your inbox Sign up to our free IndyTech newsletter Sign up to our free IndyTech newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice

As many as three million jobs could be lost over the next decade due to the rapidly increasing role played by AI and automation, a major educational research organisation has warned.

A report by the National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER) warns that extensive changes are required to ensure people have the skills needed to maintain a foothold in the workplace.

The areas particularly at risk are in high-risk declining occupations, the research team said, suggesting administrative, secretarial, customer service and machine operators may be among the most threatened roles.

Furthermore, the changes in the labour market set to eliminate many of these roles are now happening as much as three times faster than previously projected.

The NFER warned that this doesnt only pose a threat to workers already in these occupations, but also for young people who leave education without the skills and qualifications needed to enter high-skilled growth occupations.

Anthropicpremium ( Getty/iStock )

The organisation set out what they described as essential employment skills, those which are already heavily utilised today, but which they said will become even more vital across the whole economy over the next decade.

The skills are: collaboration, communication, creative thinking, information literacy, organising, planning and prioritising, as well as problem solving and decision making.

The research indicates the number of jobs in the labour market as a whole is expected to grow by 2035, but that most growth will be in professional and associate professional occupations such as science, engineering and legal roles which heavily utilise the essential employment skills.

Jude Hillary, one of NFERs authors, described the changes required as a critical challenge that needs to be met head on.

Meeting projected skills shortages means a collective response from government, employers and across the education and skills systems, he said.

We need to strengthen support in the early years, tackle inequalities in schools, strengthen pathways into growing jobs, and rebuild the adult skills system to deliver growth that benefits everyone.

The report warned that as things stand, a shortage of skilled employees at the top end of the labour market could constrain economic growth, while the changes wrought by AI will mean the fewer number of jobs at the bottom end of the market could result in many people being out of work  a lose-lose scenario.

Schools, employers and government should therefore work to ensure the essential employment skills are well-understood, encouraged, taught, or that people are offered retraining opportunities to prevent them being trapped in declining occupations, the paper concluded.

The research is notably different from other studies into how AI will reshape the job market. Last month, Microsoft said office jobs such as sales and communication roles are among those most at risk from AI.

Also in October, it was reported that consulting firm Accenture had laid off 11,000 employees while expanding efforts to train workers to use AI.

IBM has also replaced hundreds of roles with AI systems, however, unlike Microsoft, it said it had created new jobs in sales and marketing. Meanwhile Amazon cut staff while expanding the teams that build and manage AI tools.
  
Photo: https://www.facebook.com/marektv

Information about the presence of Russian military on the outskirts of Huliaipole, in Zaporizhia, is not true, Spokesman for the Southern Defense Forces Vladislav Voloshyn told Interfax-Ukraine.

"Fighting is indeed ongoing on the approaches to this settlement. However, our military is blocking the enemy, holding positions near the city. The operational structure is designed so that it will be difficult for the enemy to enter this settlement," he said.

The spokesman said that recently the enemy has significantly increased the fire effect on the Ukrainian Defense Forces and is carrying out air strikes, using two dozen KAB aerial bombs on Huliaipole and adjacent settlements.

"The enemy not only carries out up to a dozen assault operations on our positions, but also does not stop unsuccessful attempts to infiltrate directly into the settlement," Voloshyn said.

The Armed Forces of Ukraine said the enemys losses on this sector of the front over the past week amount to about 1,000 personnel.
Investigative reporting is more essential than ever, which is why weve established the Louisiana Investigative Journalism Fund, a nonprofit supported by our readers.

To learn more, please click here.
Zelenskyy to hold consultations with candidates for President's Office head on Sat

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy will hold consultations with candidates for the position of head of the Presidents Office on Saturday, November 29.

"As for the new head of the Office, tomorrow I will hold consultations with those who can head this institution," Zelenskyy said in an evening address on Friday.
Dangerously Modern, curated by Wayne Tunnicliffe, Tracey Lock and Elle Freak, was first exhibited at the Art Gallery of South Australia. The Sydney showing is different, as the generous exhibition space at the Art Gallery of NSW, with its large open apertures and cut-throughs, enables different connections to be made between the paintings, prints, ceramics, and sculptures by these 50 women artists who travelled to Europe in the decades before World War II.

Near the beginning of the exhibition, in a dark alcove, the miniaturists  Bessie Gibson, Bernice Edwell and Justine Kong Sing  painted exquisite portraits on ivory, an Edwardian interpretation of an older tradition. While many women travelled with significant support from their families, Kong Sing saved her fare by working as a governess, finally reaching Europe when she was 43.

Ethel Carricks Rue Mouffetard (1910). Credit: Kerry Stokes Collection, Perth

In an exhibition where almost every work deserves what Robert Hughes called The Long Look, it seems wrong to single out only a few for notice, and lists of names are boring. But there are some works, and some artists, that by their very nature demand greater attention.

At separate times, both Ethel Carrick and Hilda Rix travelled to former French colonies in North Africa, where they found the busy markets of the walled city of Tangier to be an ideal setting for capturing the effect of light in paint. Hilda Rixs little oil sketch, Two Women in the Market Place, was painted on the spot. She catches the folds in the clothes of two seated women, surrounded by a crowd of moving robes and indeterminate faces, each defined by a few rapid strokes of paint.
Advertisement

Eating outSex, sleaze and hospitality Good Food wins first Walkley for its investigations into Sydneys hospitality scene The Walkley Foundation said the reporting teams painstaking research and gripping storytelling had a real impact: it led to the resignations of restaurateurs, more scrutiny from investigators and regulators, and new laws. Good Food November 28, 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

Good Food Sydney editor Bianca Hrovat, The Sydney Morning Heralds investigative reporter Eryk Bagshaw and crime reporter Clare Sibthorpe, won the Walkley award in the news report category for their series of investigations into the sinister side of Sydneys hospitality scene. The trio won the award at the 70th Walkley Awards for Excellence in Journalism held in Sydney on Thursday night for their reporting that triggered an industry-wide reckoning. The months-long expose included a number of hospitality giants, including Merivale, Swillhouse and Icebergs Dining Room and Bar, resulting in the resignations of high-profile hospitality figures and regulatory reforms. From left: Investigative reporter Eryk Bagshaw, Good Foods Bianca Hrovat and crime reporter Clare Sibthorpe. Sydney Morning Herald The reporters painstaking research and gripping storytelling had real impact: resignations of famous restaurateurs, further scrutiny from investigators and regulators and new laws to make sexual violence prevention training compulsory, the foundation said.

Advertisement

The first story, published in August 2024, reported that one of Sydneys top bar and restaurant groups, Swillhouse  which operates seven venues, including Caterpillar Club, Le Foote, Restaurant Hubert and the Baxter Inn  pushed female staff out of the company after they reported sexual assaults, encouraged staff to have sex with customers and take drugs while on shift, and discriminated against women as it built up a hospitality empire. After being infuriated by the companys response to the claims, two women, Rachelle Rocky Hair, and Jenna Hemsworth, decided to go public with their claims. Hair said the company had failed to change its culture or acknowledge the harm caused, giving her no choice but to personally do my part for the younger people that have been exposed to this since. Swillhouse has denied it discriminated against women who raised sexual assault and harassment allegations. The reporting paved the way for other alleged victims to come forward, and prompted SafeWork NSW to launch an investigation, which led to the introduction of compulsory government-mandated sexual violence prevention training in pubs and clubs. Merivale chief executive Justin Hemmes (left) and Swillhouses Anton Forte. The reporting also led to an investigation into another hospitality group, Sydneys largest, Merivale, which operates about 90 venues including Tottis, Mr Wong, Mimis and Uccello. Allegations against the billion-dollar company include putting staff in dangerous situations, not protecting the wellbeing of its staff, prioritising VIP treatment over staff safety and abuse of power.

Advertisement

The company said it had no record of the allegations and it was committed to an inclusive, diverse and respectful workplace environment for our staff, as well as for our customers. The Fair Work Ombudsman begun an investigation into Merivale after this masthead reported it the hospitality group had underpaid and exploited vulnerable workers, including eight migrant chefs who say they were recruited from Mexico under false pretences. Chef Rodrigo Zavaleta, who came forward during the Merivale investigation. Janie Barrett Further reporting found Icebergs Dining Room and Bar founder Maurice Terzini had protected his son, Sylvester Terzini, from multiple sexual assault claims. Maurice Terzini later resigned. Im really honoured that Rocky, Jenna and the other former Swillhouse employees we spoke with trusted us to share their story, Hrovat said of the Walkley win. I remember Rocky telling us how she didnt think anyone would care. Now, shes part of an advocacy group, Sorry Not Sorry, making change in bars across australia and overseas. Its incredible.

Advertisement

Sorry Not Sorry was recognised as the second Good Food Guide Cultural Change Champion award. The award was introduced in 2024 to shine a light on those making the hospitality industry a better and safer place to work. Sorry Not Sorry members Jenna Hemsworth, Rachelle Rocky Hair and Alex Hooker. It was launched at the same time Good Food widened the criteria it uses to decide which restaurants, bars and cafes it recommends. If a venue is known to allow criminal offences, particularly of a violent or sexual nature, they exclude themselves from being included in the Good Food Guide. This was applied to Merivale and Swillhouse venues. The Herald health editor Kate Aubusson, reporter Emily Kaine and Age investigative reporter Aisha Dow also won the Walkleys specialist beat reporting category for a national examination of the hidden misogyny in Australias medical system. The Age claimed the best coverage of a major news event or issue for its coverage of the mushroom murders orchestrated by Erin Patterson.

Restaurant reviews, news and the hottest openings served to your inbox. Sign up
Advertisement

Review Eating outDingley Village This canteen in an industrial precinct serves some of Melbournes best Malaysian food Choose dishes from up to 30 bain-marie trays to build your own nasi campur rice mix at Matt Malaysian. Dani Valent November 28, 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

As featured in the December 2025 hit list. See all stories .

1 / 8 Matt Malaysians bain-marie trays are groaning with colourful, fragrant dishes. Bonnie Savage 2 / 8 Penang laksa with tamarind and mackerel. Bonnie Savage 3 / 8 Teh tarik (pulled milk tea). Bonnie Savage 4 / 8 Build your own nasi campur plate from the selection in the bain-marie. Bonnie Savage 5 / 8 Fiercely fried eggplant (right) is one of the choices. Bonnie Savage 6 / 8 Matt Malaysian Cafe in Dingley Village. Bonnie Savage 7 / 8 Nasi kerabu, a scoop of rice, dyed blue with butterfly pea flower, accompanied by toasted coconut, fish crackers, shredded cabbage, sambals and fried chicken, is a signature dish. Bonnie Savage 8 / 8 Cendol biasa, shaved ice soaked with palm sugar syrup and piled with corn cream, kidney beans and squiggles of pandan jelly. Bonnie Savage Previous Slide Next Slide 13.5 / 20 How we score Malaysian$$$$ In an industrial precinct in Melbournes south-east, Hanna Md Diah, a former bank worker from Johor in Malaysia, and her husband, Matt Mohamad, a one-time car mechanic, have turned a no-frills lunch spot into a cosy, easygoing destination for homely, heartfelt Malay food. I think its some of the best in town. Youre greeted by up to 30 bain-marie trays groaning with colourful, fragrant dishes: a golden tumble of fried chicken, glossy beef rendang, fish in turmeric-bright coconut gravy and much, much more. The room smells of toasted coconut, roasted chilli, shrimp paste and strong tea  sometimes with a background whiff of durian, a tropical fruit used in some savoury sauces and desserts. Whether it makes you think of your auntys cooking or youre here for your first nasi campur (rice mix), one thing is clear: some hard choices lie ahead.

Advertisement

Build your own nasi campur plate from the selection in the bain-marie. Bonnie Savage Nasi campur is a concept rather than a dish: it involves rice accompanied by a selection of braises, fries and grills. In Malaysia, customers often help themselves from a buffet. At Matt, you pick and point and a friendly staff member will serve you. There are no wrong choices and the selection changes anyway, according to whim, season and customer pleas (thats how salmon curry made it to the menu one week). Bitter melon is battered and fried, as light and crispy as excellent tempura. Spinach is tossed with carrot and dried anchovies to create a veg-forward dish with a salty punch. Lamb curry is spice-laden and fragrant, the meat easy to pull apart. Eggplants are fiercely fried so their skins turn to dark chips and their insides are molten and creamy. Nasi kerabu, with its blue rice, is a Matt Malaysian signature dish and designed to be mixed. Bonnie Savage Nasi kerabu, Matts signature, is a scoop of rice, dyed blue with butterfly pea flower, accompanied by toasted coconut, fish crackers, shredded cabbage, sambals and fried chicken (or another protein of your choice). Its a pretty dish, but your job is to mess it up: mix and eat with your fingers because every Malaysian knows it tastes better that way (although forks and spoons are fine, too).

Advertisement

Other a la carte dishes include a punchy, sour Penang laksa, strong on tamarind and mackerel, spilling over with fresh cabbage and cucumber. Nasi campur is a concept rather than a dish: it involves rice accompanied by a selection of braises, fries and grills. There are no wrong choices. Remember the cendol biasa when youre looking for a summer heatwave solution: shaved ice hits the spot, especially when its soaked with palm sugar syrup and piled with corn cream, kidney beans and squiggles of pandan jelly. Teh tarik (pulled milk tea). Bonnie Savage Matt is halal and, therefore, alcohol-free, but the tea and coffee selection is a ticket to Kuala Lumpur: my pick is the teh tarik, pulled milk tea thats thickened and made foamy by being poured a number of times between vessels.

Advertisement

This isnt a fancy place, but the well-worn room is full of personal touches that signal care and pride. Patterned batik cloths cover the tables, which are, in turn, covered in easy-wipe plastic. Everyones here. Solo diners slurp soup. A young family shares chicken and rice. Hungry shoppers swap stories about big-box bargains (theres a Costco nearby) as they browse the selection and strategise. Boxes of kuei (handmade sweets), hanging greenery and Malaysian music are expressive of the villages being channelled in the food. As often happens, the seed was a hankering for home. Hanna phoned family for recipes, cooked for friends and the dream escalated into Matt Malaysian, which opened here last year. Nostalgic and enterprising, its a business built on longing and fuelled by enthusiasm. The low-down Atmosphere: Proud culture, casual setting Go-to dishes: Penang laksa ($17); nasi campur (from $13); cendol biasa ($10); teh tarik ($4.50) Drinks: Soft drinks, Malaysian coffee with condensed milk and excellent teh tarik (pulled milk tea) Cost: About $50 for 2 people, excluding drinks This review was originally published in Good Weekend magazine. Good Food reviews are booked anonymously and paid independently. A restaurant cant pay for a review or inclusion in the Good Food Guide.

Restaurant reviews, news and the hottest openings served to your inbox. Sign up
One of the lesser-known perils of becoming a school teacher is not breathing second-hand vape mist (mango tango!), or working out why your students keep chanting 6-7 like small communists. Its working out how youll be addressed.

It began casually. After starting work at my school, another teacher was writing the updated list of names for the staff room door. Are you Miss or Mrs? she said. I wanted to be a Miss. It has a youthful vibe, like Miss Anne of Green Gables. I am legally Mrs, which makes me sound like a 20th-century matron, or a formidable mother, like Mrs Wormwood from Matilda. Just say Ms, I said, keen for the slightly edgier zzz sound. I cant bring myself to be a Mrs for reasons entirely unknown, except that it makes me feel old.

Miss, Miss, Miss ... whats in an honorific?

When I was young, teachers were either Miss or Mrs based on their marital status. The ones who went by Ms were the equivalent of Facebooks one-time relationship status, its complicated, their mysterious monikers the equivalent of a dramatic post-breakup haircut  losing that softening R.

Male teachers, on the other hand, are always Mr, which now feels deeply unfair: why should women continue to be defined formally by their marital status? At least weve moved on from the dark ages, when letters would come in the mail addressed to my parents: Mr and Mrs Peter Lee. As a child, I always found that confusing, wondering if my mothers legal name was actually Mrs Peter Lee.
In journalism, we often judge the calibre of our colleagues by the quality of their enemies. Powerful institutions, world leaders, activists, business leaders, top sportspeople, crime bosses, and sometimes other media colleagues, are counted among them.

No one I know got into journalism to make friends or fortunes, but the ferocity of the enemies we make in the course of doing our jobs can surprise even the most battle-hardened of us.

Earlier this month I wrote to you of threats and intimidatory tactics designed to silence reporters at The Age. In my field of view, this troubling behaviour is becoming increasingly frequent and represents an attack not just on The Age, or any individual reporter, but on all journalists working in the public interest.

Speaking at the Walkley Awards at Sydneys cavernous convention centre last night, ABC journalism legend Kerry OBrien spoke powerfully about attempts to silence reporters in this way, with threats and violence, but also of the extraordinary steps governments and institutions take to suppress unflattering information. And yes, that includes Australia, where laws protecting public interest journalism are so weak that OBrien described them as Swiss cheese.

I couldnt agree more. No lawyer has ever said to me: Dont worry, Patrick, you can rely on our shield laws to protect The Ages reporters.
There may be some flow-on delays or cancellations on Sunday as the network fully recovers. Perth Airport said the recall would also affect Western Australia, and urged passengers to check with their airlines as the situation developed. The cancellations have caused disruptions for thousands of year 12 leavers intending to travel to the Gold Coast and Byron Bay for schoolies week. Passengers queueing at Melbourne Airport on Saturday after the Airbus emergency alert. Credit: Jason South Eighteen-year-old Tom Feeney, from Malvern in Melbourne, and five friends booked their accommodation for this weeks schoolies festivities at Byron Bay two years ago, and the flights to Ballina  the closest airport  last January.

After arriving in Sydney, they discovered the flight to Ballina was cancelled. On Saturday morning, they were waiting at Sydney Airport for a flight to Brisbane, the only flight they could get. Oli Gill, Alex Marchesani, Henry Willee, Tom Feeney and Oscar Sorell wait at Sydney Airport on Saturday for a flight to Brisbane. Credit: Julie Power A friends mother has organised an UberXL from Brisbane to Byron. We got lucky, Feeney said. Quite a lot of people were trying to get a seat, but there are literally none left. At Melbourne Airport, the line for the Jetstar service desk snaked 100 metres through Terminal 4 as a handful of staff rushed around to manage the crowds. Nikki Anderson and Dee Hovey got up early to drive from Berwick, in Melbournes south-east, for a flight to Queensland, where their children will play in a basketball tournament this week, but their flight was cancelled on Saturday morning.

We got spray tans for this, Hovey said light-heartedly as the pair waited in line, hoping to get a later flight to Brisbane. Thousands of Jetstar passengers are affected by cancellations, including Nikki Anderson and Dee Hovey from Berwick. Credit: Jason South Luckily, their boys flew with Virgin and were unaffected by the Airbus recall that has caused chaos for Jetstar. Anderson suggested the budget airline should put on some drinks for the parents of the schoolies affected by the disruption. Mums have worked their arse off all week to get the house clean, food in the fridge, everyone else packed, she said. The mums have done it hard to get here, and now the mums are impacted!

In the noisy Melbourne terminal, Jetstar chief pilot Tyrone Simes said about 90 flights had been affected on Saturday. Explaining the problem, he said a flight control computer on board the affected planes had shown an anomaly. He said this was a result of a recent software upgrade, which now had to be reversed on each aircraft before they could fly again. The updates take two to three hours.

We have 85 [A320] aircraft [in our fleet]. However, only 34 of the aeroplanes have this anomaly identified. Thousands of people, including these Sydney travellers, have had their plans upended by the nearly 100 flight cancellations on Saturday morning. Credit: Sitthixay Ditthavong Melbourne Airports chief of aviation, Jim Parashos, said all hands were on deck to help Jetstar. We have engineers taking a look at the aircraft on the ground, and we will get them on their way as soon as we can, he said. Ive spoken to a lot of travellers that are heading up to Byron and the Gold Coast [for schoolies]. We appreciate their frustration, but theyve been very understanding.

Sydney Airport said it was supporting Jetstar as they work to resolve the issue and strongly advise all Jetstar customers to check their flight status with the airline before travelling to the airport. Travellers trying to get to schoolies on the NSW-Queensland border are among those affected by Saturdays disruptions. Credit: Sitthixay Ditthavong AirAsia flies A320s to Perth, Adelaide, Darwin and Bali. Bo Lingam, group chief executive of AirAsia, said: We are taking immediate steps to comply with the Airworthiness Directive and aim to complete the process within the next 48 hours. Footage from Melbourne Airport on Saturday morning showed crowds and chaos as passengers tried to figure out what was happening with their flights. Saturday mornings delays in Australia also come after a fire forced the evacuation of Melbourne Airports Terminal 1 on Friday night.

At Sydney Airport, domestic Terminal 2 was extremely crowded by 10.30am. Virgin Australia operates only four A320s, all of them in its regional Western Australia business. The Brisbane-based airline expects to cover any disruptions with its existing capacity in its Boeing 737 fleet. A sobering sight for travellers. Credit: Sitthixay Ditthavong A Qantas source said that while it had some A320s in WA, the issue was not affecting its aircraft. Air New Zealand said it expects service to return to normal by Sunday evening.

We currently anticipate a total of around 20 cancellations across today and tomorrow, with our schedule expected to return to normal by Monday, said chief safety and risk officer Nathan McGraw. Customers travelling today and tomorrow should continue to check the Air NZ app or website for the latest information on their flight, he said. There are 2274 Airbus A320s in service in the Asia-Pacific region, more than any other single region globally, according to Cirium, an aviation analytics company. The setback appears to be among the largest recalls affecting Airbus in its 55-year history and comes weeks after the A320 overtook the Boeing 737 as the most-delivered model.

There are about 11,300 A320-family jets in operation, including 6440 of the core A320 model, which first flew in 1987. Inside an Airbus A320-200 aircraft cabin. Credit: Getty Images Earlier, Airbus released a statement saying a recent event involving an A320 family aircraft has revealed that intense solar radiation may corrupt data critical to the functioning of flight controls. Airbus said it subsequently identified a significant number of its aircraft that may be affected. Overseas, the worlds largest A320 operator, American Airlines, said some 340 aircraft  70 per cent of its A320 fleet  would need the fix.
I quickly found out that a lot of semiconductors come from Ukraine, and all the precious metals, etcetera. We had shipping costs going ballistic. Just as the worlds supply chains can fall apart with one weak link, the Metro Tunnels new technology must also seamlessly connect. The Metro Tunnel stations, such as at Arden station, have platform screen doors  the first in Victoria. Credit: Justin McManus Engineers used a lab to test signalling and other features as they were being designed, but Cantan said that at the start of the project, they didnt truly appreciate how hard the back of the job would be. She said the tunnels new rail signalling system had to interface with the trains, platforms, tunnel ventilation and building systems such as power, air-conditioning, escalators and lifts.

One benefit of this collaboration is the inclusion of helpful new features. A graphic that will appear above platform doors in the tunnel will show people how crowded the carriage behind that door will be when the next train arrives at the platform. Some of the architecture at Arden station in North Melbourne. Credit: Joe Armao The platform doors were one of more technical challenges faced at that stage of the project. The train carriage must perfectly align with these doors because they are a safety feature, and they must talk to the fire, communications and signalling systems. Evan Tattersall, who was chief executive in charge of the Metro Tunnel until 2022, said he learnt about the draining nature of this work at a recent party he attended. A Melbourne train driver exposed to hours of testing informed Tattersall the doors were far too complex and the project should never bloody had them.

Come Sunday, they will be a permanent feature of Melbournes rail network. Jacinta Allan, then the acting premier and now the premier, inspects the new platform train doors at Parkville station in 2023. Credit: Scott McNaughton The United Firefighters Union has alleged that Fire Rescue Victoria radios have been failing to connect to antenna systems used by emergency services when tested underground. However, Premier Jacinta Allan and the Office of National Rail Safety Regulator have strongly rejected these claims, and the regulator has made the safety approvals needed for services to run from Sunday. The challenge of plugging a new high-tech line into a century-old existing railway network was one of the most time-consuming elements for the Metro Tunnel project.

Under the signalling system used across most of Melbourne, railway lines are broken into smaller sections of track, known as signal blocks. To prevent collisions, trains are not permitted on the same block, and signallers spend much of the day operating the red and green lights that allow this safe distance to be maintained. A test train runs through the Metro Tunnel in September. But inside the Metro Tunnel and along a large section of the Cranbourne, Pakenham and Sunbury lines that will use it, high-capacity signalling will be in place. Known as communications-based train control, this technology allows trains to speak to each other and run much closer together, permitting peak-hour timetables where services are a minute or two apart. Integrating this technology into an older system was one of the key reasons Londons latest addition to its train network, the Elizabeth line  also known as Crossrail  was four years late and 4 billion ($8.1 billion) over budget.

Tattersall said the Metro Tunnel team visited the Elizabeth line when technology problems were emerging and continued to stay in touch as the team in London passed on lessons learnt. He said the Crossrail team realised they did not consciously make the shift from a construction to an IT project, as people of different skills were needed for each phase. This evolution became a key responsibility for current project director Ben Ryan, who stepped into the role just as the transition was ramping up. Ryan said experts from Crossrail had visited Melbourne every six months over the past few years to give advice and test for weaknesses.

Crossrail staff admitted they had taken too long to realise they were running behind, Ryan said, by focusing on construction and not concentrating on how they would turn on all the new technology and have it work in sync. Ryan said perfecting these complicated systems, which underpin how the whole Metro Tunnel operates, was the task that took the most effort. The high-capacity signalling, and particularly the fire systems in the tunnel, theyre the things that you cant open if they dont work, he said. They require an enormous amount of testing. Hundreds and hundreds of exercises.

Weve had what we call mass volunteer exercises, where we simulated a scenario [and] weve got to evacuate people out of the tunnel and had emergency services in to support all of that. Travellers on a train platform at Paddington station on the opening day of the Elizabeth Line in London in 2022. Credit: Bloomberg Thousands of hours of testing contributed towards getting the Metro Tunnel ready for services on Sunday. In June, this amounted to more 165,000 kilometres travelled through the tunnels. Ryan said the other big lesson from Crossrail was that if you build it, they will come. For all the criticism about being late and over budget  they said to us, theyre at their 30-year patronage forecast 3 years in, he said.
Credit: Alan Moir

To submit a letter to The Age, email letters@theage.com.au. Please include your home address and telephone number. No attachments, please include your letter in the body of the email. See here for our rules and tips on getting your letter published.

Barnaby Joyce was voted into parliament as a member of the National Party. Resigning from that party, means that he is not representing those who voted for him in the way that won him that seat. Allowing him to do this is a weakness in our democracy. But he is not the only one who has done this. For instance, Lidia Thorpe although gaining a seat in parliament as an Australian Greens party member left the party and continues as an independent. She was not voted in as an independent, so she is not representing the people who voted for her.

If a parliamentarian feels they can no longer continue as a member of the political party that won them their seat, they should resign from parliament. Then the party to which they belonged should be able to choose someone to replace them. Then at the next election the new parliamentarian will have to face election like all the others.

Marguerite Marshall, Eltham

Which priorities will lure Joyce?

Barnaby Joyce has left the Nationals because of what is really important to him (MPs 20-year stint of colour and scandal closed, 28/11). It is not clear how his priorities differ from National Party policy, though his flirtation with One Nation implies that the Nationals are not far enough to the political right. The LNP wants cuts to migration numbers, One Nation by more. Joyces reference to the shortage of doctors in regional hospitals is strange, given so many medical jobs are done by migrants. Cost-of-living pressure is clearly important, but Joyce misses the point that climate change is already hurting farmers and consumers. Less reliable weather is having an impact on farm production and income. The National Party has a policy of limited emissions reduction. Does Joyce prefer Pauline Hansons view that severe droughts and flooding were more common prior to 1960?

John Hughes, Mentone
Under-16s hoping to find a new online home once theyre barred from Snapchat and TikTok in a matter of days may find the process tougher than anticipated, as the government clarifies that the so-called social media ban will extend further than the 10 apps it has specifically called out.

Lesser-known social apps including photo-sharing group chat service Yope, and TikTok-linked Instagram-like Lemon8, have surged up the charts of most-downloaded apps in Australia, as underage influencers use their final fortnight on social media to guide their communities to greener pastures.

Yope has been around for a few years, and is a bit like Instagram except with private chatrooms instead of public posts and feeds.

But according to a spokesman for the eSafety commissioner, any app that meets the criteria of the new laws will be expected to block users under 16 come December 10, no matter how esoteric they are.

eSafety has published its assessments of major online services to provide greater certainty for Australian families and industry. However, with just over a week to go, eSafety is also reminding the broader online industry all services are obliged to comply with the law, the spokesman said.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced a reboot of the Presidents Office, Andriy Yermak wrote a resignation letter from the post of head of the Office.

"I want no one to have any questions about Ukraine. Therefore, today the following internal decisions. First. There will be a reboot of the Presidents Office of Ukraine. Head of the Office Andriy Yermak wrote a resignation letter," Zelenskyy said in an evening address on Friday.

He thanked Yermak for always presenting the Ukrainian position in the negotiation track exactly as it should be.

"It has always been a patriotic position. But I want there to be no rumors and speculation," the president said.

Earlier, on Friday, NABU and SAPO reported on the searches of Andriy Yermak.
Assam Assembly passes Bill to ban polygamy





GUWAHATI :

THE Assam Assembly on Thursday passed a Bill to ban polygamy, making it an offence which may lead to a maximum of 10 years of imprisonment, barring some exceptions. It kept people belonging to the ST category and areas under the Sixth Schedule out of the purview of the legislation. During the passage of the Assam Prohibition of Polygamy Bill, 2025, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who also holds the portfolio of the home and political departments, said the law is irrespective of religion and not against Islam as being perceived by a section. The Hindus are not free from polygamy.

Thats also our responsibility. This bill will cover people from Hindu, Muslim, Christian and all other societies, he added. Talking about UCC, Sarma said this will be implemented in Assam if he becomes the CM again. after the Assam assembly polls next year. Despite the CMs request to all opposition members to withdraw their respective amendments to send a message from the House that the bill is passed unanimously to empower women, AIUDF and CPI(M) went ahead with their modification suggestions, which were defeated by voice vote. I assure the House that if I return as CM, the UCC bill will be tabled on the first session of the new government and will be implemented, Sarma said.

He said that the ban on polygamy is a direction towards the implementation of the UCC. The CM also said, A bill against deceptive marriage will be brought in during the session by February end. So, whatever we have spoken about love-jihad, we will do that. He had earlier this month said that the government would ban love-jihad and introduce a bill against this.
BAC meet on December 1 to finalise Winter Session agenda





Staff Reporter :

A meeting of Business Advisory Committee (BAC) of Maharashtra State Legislature is slated on December 1 to finalise the schedule and agenda for the forthcoming Winter Session to be held in Nagpur, the second capital of the State. The meeting will be held at Vidhan Bhavan complex at Mumbai from 2.30 pm onwards. The meeting is going to discuss the time-table for starting the Winter Session and its schedule. As per current plan, the Winter Session of both Houses of State Legislature might be a 10-day affair, with probable commencement from December 8 as announced earlier.

The most important business that is transacted during Winter Session is that of passage of supplementary grants, as it is one of the most important on the agenda. Also, the Appropriation Bill relating to finances are also tabled in the session. Although as of now, the dates for Zilla Parishad and Municipal Corporation elections are not yet announced, the BAC is going to take the same into consideration while deciding the business to be transacted in both the Houses. The election date might be announced by end of November once Supreme Court decides on the OBC reservation issues that is pending for hearing.

Apex Court will be holding hearing on Friday and the double bench headed by Chief Justice of India might provide a clear path for State Election Commission to go ahead with finalisation of election scheduled for ZP and Corporations. The political parties are betting on mid-January election so that would not hinder any plans of State Government to announce policy decisions in Winter Session. A major aspect that may be taken up in the session would relate to losses suffered by farmers due to intensive rains. Already, State Government has announced Rs 32,000 crore plus package to compensate the farmers.
Hijab-clad woman receives death threats,rape warnings over social media reels





Staff Reporter :

A MUSLIM woman in Bhopal, Yasmeen (30), has become the target of a torrent of rape threats, death threats and abusive harassment after posting personal Instagram reels while wearing a Hijab. The severity of the threats has prompted the Police Commissioner to order a Crime Branch investigation. Yasmeen, originally from Murwas in Vidisha and currently residing in Bhopals Huzur area, filed a complaint stating she was targeted by several men, including some of her own relatives, simply for posting reels and responding to obscene and objectionable comments directed at her on the platform.

Threats intensified after response video: According to her complaint, the harassment intensified after she uploaded a video addressing the vulgar remarks previously made on her posts. She alleged that a man named Farooq from Vidisha contacted her via Instagram call and explicitly threatened to rape and kill her. Yasmeen claimed the group abused her, accused her of supporting Hindus, and used communal slurs while intimidating her.

She reported receiving multiple death threats from different WhatsApp numbers, including warnings that she would be shot if she did not delete her video. One message explicitly threatened beheading (sar tan se juda kar denge) if she commented on the Gaddi community (a Muslim community based in Rajasthan, MP and Uttar Pradesh). Victim allegedly told to Leave Islam Hindu brothers support me, but a few from my community post dirty comments.

When I posted this on Instagram, extremists began threatening me, she said, adding that she was even told to leave Islam and threatened with sar tan se juda kar denge if she did not delete the video. Deeply disturbed and fearing for her life, Yasmeen has submitted all digital evidence, including screenshots, messages, and links, to the police. Recognising the seriousness of the allegations, Police C o m m i s s i o n e r Harinarayanachari Mishra has handed the case over to the Crime Branch for a detailed probe.

Fake account created to defame victim: Yasmeen also disclosed that a fake Instagram account, rang_a5903, was created using her name and photos. Edited obscene videos and images were uploaded from this impersonated account to defame her. Another account, Abdul_Rahem_Kha, reportedly issued similar death threats through Instagram stories.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed a decree dismissing Andriy Yermak from the post of head of the Presidents Office.

Document No. 868/2025 was published on the presidents website.
How long will police conduct inquiry into death of Disha Salian, asks Bombay HC





MUMBAI :

THE Bombay High Court on Thursday asked how long the city police would conduct its inquiry into the death of former celebrity manager Disha Salian. She died on June 8, 2020, after falling off the 14th floor of a residential building in Malad in north Mumbai, following which the city police registered an Accidental Death Report (ADR) case. A bench of Justices A S Gadkari and R R Bhonsale said it has been five years since the death and all the police has to ascertain is if the death was by suicide or culpable homicide. The benchs remarks came after public prosecutor Mankhunwar Deshmukh said the inquiry into the death was still on. Why still inquiry? It has been five years. Someone has died. You just have to ascertain if it was a suicide or culpable homicide, the court remarked. Deshmukh told the court the inquiry was being done minutely so as to rule out all possibilities.

Disha Salians father, Satish Salian, had filed a petition in HC in March this year alleging that his daughter was gang raped and murdered. Satish Salian had sought a CBI probe into his daughters death and for a FIR to be registered against Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aditya Thackeray. Satish Salian, in the plea, alleged his daughter was found dead under mysterious circumstances in June 2020. He alleged she was raped and murdered and, subsequently, there was a politically orchestrated cover-up to protect certain influential persons. Deshmukh on Thursday told the bench the police had recorded the statements of the petitioner and his wife on several occasions after the incident and they had clearly said they had no doubt or suspicion on anyone. And now after five years, the father is raising these contentions, she said.

The court also asked why the police was not handing over copies of the statements of Satish Salian to him and also other basic probe related documents, which are permissible under law. He is the father of the victim. Any document that is legally permissible can be handed over to him, the court said. The bench posted the matter for further hearing on December 11. by when Deshmukh would have to clarify the polices stand on providing documents to the petitioner. The court also directed the police to produce the post mortem report. Earlier, Aditya Thackeray had filed an application seeking to intervene in the plea and urged the court to grant him a hearing before passing any order. Thackeray, in his application, said the petition filed by Satish Salian was false, frivolous and motivated.
Newly appointed BJP Mahila Morcha Statechief Ashwini Rajwade welcomed at party office





Staff Reporter :

THE newly appointed State President of Bharatiya Janata Party Mahila Morcha Ashwini Paranjpe Rajwade, on Thursday reached the partys divisional office on her maiden visit after taking charge. District President Ratnesh Sonkar, MLA Abhilash Pandey and senior party leaders, along with members of the Mahila Morcha greeted her warmly and extended congratulations.

Speaking on the occasion, District President Sonkar said it was a matter of pride for Jabalpur that the state leadership chose a young leader from the city for the key responsibility. He said the organisation is confident that Paranjpe would perform her role effectively and work to strengthen outreach among women across the State. She was welcomed and extended warm wishes on his first visit to partys divisional.

Expressing views on the occasion, Paranjpe thanked the state leadership for entrusting her with an important role. She said Jabalpur is both her birthplace and her workplace, where she began her social and political journey. She expressed gratitude to officebearers and workers for their support and said their affection and blessings would inspire her to work with greater commitment. A number of leaders and members of Mahila Morcha were also present on the occasion.
PLUGGING GAPS: NMC proposes data sharing of property transfers from IGR&Stamps





Staff Reporter :

Integration of servers with minor modification in software can save time for civic officials to update tax records of new owners ensuring timely collection of property tax

With an eye on plugging the gaps in property tax data base, Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) held talks with office of Inspector General of Registration and Stamps, proposing integration of servers for real time updation of property transactions. The seamless flow of data can save considerable time for civic body in updating its property tax record. Accruals from property tax are quite low even as property market in city is booming and hence, civic body officials are keen on a faster process to identify new owners to ensure timely assessment and collection of dues. After years of study, officials realised that new owners fail to complete formality as to mutation with NMC, though it is must. More than that, most of the time, property owners, post-buying, fail to realise need to pay their property tax in time.

This happens mostly in case of open plots. In case of default, NMCs Tax Department personnel work gets quite tough to locate the new owner and serve notice for clearing of dues, in absence of latest updated record about transfer of property due to sale or gift deed. For the same, the field team in Property Tax Department depend on city survey records, which again is a time-consuming process. For the same, Revenue Department officials discussed the issue at length with local officials of IGR&Stamps. Milind Meshram, Deputy Commissioner, NMC, said that as per procedure, at the time of registration of property, the latest tax receipt is sought from the seller. The NMC has proposed that a column about Index Number or UPIN No that is mentioned on tax receipt be incorporated in the server of IGR& Stamps. So, at the time of filling up other land data, the Index No to must be added and NMC to should automatically get update on change of property ownership. Same can happen once the data sharing arrangement between two organisations is finalised. Post integration of NMC and IGR& Stamps servers. the data would seamlessly flow between the two agencies.

The same would be fulfilling the mandate of Ease of Doing Business as described by Maharashtra Government. This would spare buyers considerable time as they would not require to shuttle from one office to another for completing the formalities of mutation, Meshram pointed out. For the IGR&Stamps also, the mention of UPIN or Index number would enable them to assess the data as to status of property tax relating to property under registration. They can investigate the latest tax status of the property under consideration of registration that would reduce the paper work for the seller. The advantage for NMC is that they need not have to wait for property owner to complete the mutation formality with their respective Zone office.

The mutation with NMC enables updating the name of the new owner in property tax record. While most of time, new owners are not aware of the process or do not care for following up mutation process with NMC. But, Meshram said, when the said property is put up for resale, the owner faces hurdles since the name of old owner still remains on property tax receipt. In case of loan case, the purchaser faces this hurdle that delays the process. As of today, IGR only while registering the sale deed is also facilitating updating of names simultaneously with the office of City Survey. This facility was initiated a few years back that has provided huge respite to citizens from going separately for adding their names in the property card. The addition of name on property card is the most crucial step in completing or cementing ownership of the property.

Revenue Deptt seeks co-sharing of OC data from Town Planning

Revenue Department, on Wednesday, also held confabulations with their counterparts in Town Planning, NMC, discussing steps to exchange of data relating to creation of new property vis-a-vis updating tax record. Milind Meshram said, they proposed that once occupancy certificate is issued, the data can be shared with the Property Tax Department. For the same, they have discussed ways to integrate data servers of both departments. This can be done by incorporating UPIN number of the property in the OC document. Meshram said, once the Tax Department learns that OC is issued, the Tax Inspector can visit the spot and survey the new property and initiate tax demand. For example, these days, old property, where only one house exists, now a multistoreyed building is constructed. This automatically means number of new units has increased and in absence of real time data, the Tax Inspector is at a loss to learn about creation of new units.
Police bust inter-state gang of thieves,recover assets worth over Rs 1.22 crore





Staff Reporter :

POLICE have cracked multiple cases of theft and fraud across Indore, Vidisha, Tikamgarh, Sehore and Bhopal, recovering assets valued at over Rs 1.22 crore and arresting key suspects. The operations were carried out through vigilant monitoring, technical analysis, and co-ordinated team efforts. In Indore, an inter-state gang defrauded victims of Rs 60 lakh by offering fake gold pieces in exchange for five Rani Haar ornaments.

Acting on instructions from the Indore Police Commissioner, authorities tracked the suspects, Sanjay Soni, Gaurav Soni, Neeraj Soni, and Santosh Samai, across Rishikesh (Uttarakhand) and Jodhpur (Rajasthan). Police recovered 443 grams of gold, necklaces, chains, and rings worth approximately Rs 60 lakh. The gang admitted to melting some gold to make new ornaments while hiding the rest in Jodhpur. In Vidisha, police solved thefts at the Balaji Temple and a private residence.

Acting on over 250 CCTV footage clips, 150 witness statements, and technical evidence, five suspects operating from Agra (Uttar Pradesh) were arrested. Cash, vehicles, and jewellery worth about Rs 15 lakh were recovered. Another case in Civil Lines involving a deserted house near SATI College resulted in four arrests, with property and cash valued at Rs 30.6 lakh recovered.

In Tikamgarh, the theft of brass idols and silver ornaments from Bageshwari Temple led to the arrest of Pramod alias Chhotu Ahirwar from Banda (Uttar Pradesh), with stolen items worth Rs 55,000 recovered. Sehore police arrested three suspects in a residential burglary, recovering stolen fridges, washing machines, motorcycles, and other items valued at around Rs 2 lakh. In Bhopals Shahjahanabad area, a retired Agriculture Department employees vacant home was looted; property dealer Yusuf Siddiqui and accomplice Abdul Rahman were apprehended, and cash and jewellery worth about Rs 14 lakh were recovered.
Prime Minister to participate in60th edition of DG-IG conference





Staff Reporter :

PRIME Minister Narendra Modi will attend the 60th All India Conference of Director Generals and Inspector Generals of Police at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Nava Raipur Atal Nagar, Chhattisgarh, on November 29 and 30. The three-day conference, from November 28 to 30, aims to assess progress in tackling major policing challenges and to chart a forward-looking roadmap for a Surakshit Bharat aligned with the national vision of Viksit Bharat.

The event is themed Viksit Bharat: Security Dimensions. Key issues on the agenda include Left Wing E x t r e m i s m , counter-terrorism, disaster management, womens safety, and the use of forensic science and artificial intelligence in policing. During the conference, the Prime Minister will also present the Presidents Police Medals for Distinguished Service.

The conference provides a vital platform for senior police officials and security administrators nationwide to exchange views on national security concerns. Discussions will focus on operational, infrastructural, and welfare challenges faced by police forces, alongside sharing best practices for crime control, law and order maintenance, and internal security responses.

Since 2014, under the Prime Ministers guidance, the conference format has evolved, with venues rotating across the country including Guwahati, Rann of Kachchh, Hyderabad, Tekanpur, Kevadiya, Pune, Lucknow, New Delhi, Jaipur, and Bhubaneswar. This year, continuing the tradition, event will take place in Raipur. The conference will be attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, Ministers of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai and Bandi Sanjay Kumar, Directors General of Police from States and UTs, and heads of central police organisations.

To foster innovation, senior Home Department officials and select police officers at DIG and SP ranks will also participate physically. This annual event encourages frank discussions and interaction with the Prime Minister through business sessions, breakout groups, and thematic dining table talks, aiming to introduce fresh ideas to strengthen Indias internal security framework.
Social media content guidelines in final stage: Centre tells SC





NEW DELHI

THE Centre informed the Supreme Court (SC) that the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting is in the final stages of preparing a regulatory framework to address explicit and harmful content on social media platforms. Seeking an additional four weeks, the Union Government apprised a Bench of Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi that the proposed guidelines would soon be placed in the public domain to invite suggestions from citizens, experts, and other stakeholders. The CJI Kant-led Bench was hearing a clutch of petitions filed by YouTubers Ranveer Allahbadia, Ashish Chanchlani, and others facing several FIRs over allegedly obscene and offensive remarks made during the controversial show Indias Got Latent. The SC stressed that existing provisions may require amendments to ensure meaningful checks on online content.

At this, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said: I have spoken to the concerned Minister. Before dealing with obscenity, we must first deal with wrongful acts. Anyone can create a YouTube channel, say anything under the garb of free speech, and the law is helpless. That cannot continue. The Supreme Court suggested the Centre consider the feasibility of establishing an autonomous regulatory body to monitor online content. If everything is allowed to be spoken or shown without accountability, what will be the consequence? the CJI Kant-led Bench remarked. Further, it referred to the intrusive nature of online platforms and said: Obscenity can appear in books or paintings, and those can be restricted. But when you switch on your phone, and something appears that you do not want to see  and it is forcibly pushed at you - what is the remedy? The Supreme Court also took strong exception to derogatory or insensitive depictions of disabled persons, urging the Government to consider a stringent penal mechanism, akin to the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, to deter insults and mockery aimed at persons with disabilities.

We were told that highly sensitive issues are being mocked. Why shouldnt there be a strict law to protect disabled individuals from such humiliation? the CJI Kant-led Bench asked. The latest developments come against the backdrop of earlier hearings, where the Supreme Court reprimanded several stand-up comedians, including Samay Raina, Vipul Goyal, Balraj Paramjeet Singh Ghai, Sonali Thakkar, and Nishant Tanwar, for making insensitive jokes about an infant suffering from spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). In August this year, the Apex Court had directed Raina and four others to issue public apologies on social media after taking note of their offensive remarks about a two-month-old baby needing a Rs 16 crore life-saving injection. While hearing the petition filed by Cure SMA Foundation of India, the Supreme Court indicated its intention to frame guidelines regulating obscene or harmful content on social media and stressed that freedom of speech under Article 19 cannot override the right to dignity enshrined in Article 21.
Ugly Propaganda

EVEN as the nation celebrated the Constitution Day with luminaries such as President Mrs. Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi highlighting rights and duties of the people guaranteed by the Constitution, the Opposition leaders indulged in ugly and shameless propaganda that the Constitution of India was in danger. As she mounted her opposition to the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in her State, West Bengal Chief Minister Ms. Mamata Banerjee went to the extent of threatening that she would shake the country if the SIR was not discontinued immediately. And when the media questioned other Opposition leaders about the threat, they refused to see sense in the SIR and insisted that the Constitution was in danger -- without actually offering any substantial points to prove their argument.

Of course, by now the common people of the country have known how hollow and false and ugly the Opposition propaganda is about the Constitution being in danger. For, over the past 10-11 years, they have seen the Government led by Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi upholding the honour and dignity of the Constitution in every which the way, and trying to strengthening the constitutional ethos of the country in the best possible manner. The common people also see the SIR as a legitimate exercise by the Election Commission of India (EC) to cleanse the impurities in the voters lists so that the elections remain free from manipulative numerical games. Over the past 10-11 years, the Opposition has made every possible attempt to tarnish the image of not just the Modi Government but also the country and its democratic and constitutional institutions.

It has not spared even the famed Armed Forces that are often praised the world over for their high professional standards and patriotic commitment. In the process, the Opposition camp now looks like an entity working against the national interests. The obstinacy and consistency of the ugly propaganda against the country by the Opposition have led common people even to suspect that some external powers or lobbies are instigating the Opposition to undertake anti-India campaigns in order to mislead the society. With the SIR in Bihar and the legislative elections there behind us, the common people ask simple questions to the Opposition about its stance against the SIR.

If elections could be held without any untoward incident in Bihar after a successful exercise of SIR, then how can it insist that the Constitution is in danger ?; or, if the SIR could be completed in Bihar within stipulated time-frame, why should it object to a similar time-frame in West Bengal ?; or, if the Booth-Level-Officers (BLOs) in Bihar did their job efficiently without any fuss, why should there be such a fuss about the BLO getting loaded down with extra work in West Bengal ?; or, why should not other regions going through the SIR exercise complain against it if they had similar objections ?; or can the Opposition show any one single point in the SIR enumeration form seeking to segmentise people on the basis of religion or caste ? ... The Opposition has no answers to these questions. Then, all it seeks to do is to add more con fusion to the situation by making contradictory statements that explain nothing. All this has not remained hidden from public eye. The common people see every fraud the Opposition wishes to unleash upon the larger Indian society. Yet, the Opposition has chosen to be blind about this reality and is continuing with its propaganda of utter and ugly falsehood about the Constitution being in danger. Some people in the Opposition camp may be realising the folly in the narrative, all right, but are not possibly in a position to put up open resistance to its promotion. Of course, that is not the peoples problem. At best -- or at worst -- it is the problem the Opposition must sort out. And by any standard, it does not have the wherewithal to sort that out.
Woman held for hotel stay on forged documents





CHHATRAPATI SAMBHAJINAGAR :

Pak numbers found on her phone

POLICE have arrested a woman for allegedly staying in a hotel here on forged documents and found some international numbers, including those of Afghan Embassy and Pakistan, on her phone, officials said. The police also found Rs 32 lakh deposited in her account from multiple sources and have issued notices to 13 persons from different parts of the country who allegedly transferred money to her, they said. During her stay at the hotel in Maharashtras Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar city, the woman also visited Jaipur, Udaipur and Delhi, and an investigation was being conducted into her trips, an official told PTI. Kalpana Bhagwat (45) was arrested on Sunday after the police conducted a check of hotels on Jalna Road here in view of a VIP movement, an official told PTI.

The woman was found staying in a hotel on Jalna Road for six months on alleged forged documents, he said. During the search of her hotel room, the police also found a bunch of five papers titled Appointment in the IAS on the basis of Civil Services Examination 2017 with her name and were being verified, the official said. Later, during the investigation, the police also found some international numbers, including those of the Afghan Embassy and Pakistan, on her mobile phone. It was also found that she sent Rs 3 lakh to a foreigner named Ashraf Kil, he said. While she had no job, Rs 32.68 lakh was deposited into her account from various sources.

The city police have issued notices to 13 persons who sent various amounts to the woman, seeking reasons for the money transfer, the official said. The woman also indulged in WhatsApp chats with some foreigners. The investigation team will recover the chats and call records as part of the investigation, he said. A case has been registered against the woman under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita sections for cheating, forgery and other relevant provisions, the police added.
Photo: elements.envato.com

The European Commission is aware of the resignation of Head of the President's Office Andriy Yermak, and states that any investigations demonstrate the activity of anti-corruption agencies in Ukraine, since the fight against corruption is a central element for joining the European Union.

"We have seen the news about today's searches by NABU and SAPO and the resignation of the Head of the President's office. We understand investigations are ongoing. Our position is well known: any investigations show that the anti-corruption bodies are in place and are allowed to function in Ukraine," European Commission Spokesperson Guillaume Mercier told Interfax-Ukraine commenting on the latest developments in Ukraine, particularly the resignation of the President's Office head.

He said the fight against corruption "has been a central element of our enlargement package, which provides our general position on the matter."

"The fight against corruption is key for a country to join the European Union. It requires continuous efforts to guarantee a strong capacity to combat corruption and the respect for the rule of law. The Commission will continue to follow the situation closely," Mercier said.
Szijjarto on Orban-Putin meeting: If peace summit takes place, it will be held in Budapest

The meeting between Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and Vladimir Putin has ended, it was confirmed "that if a peace summit takes place" regarding the end of the Russian aggression against Ukraine, "it will be held in Budapest," Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said on the X social network.

"PM Viktor Orban's meeting with President Putin has concluded. () Regarding the war in Ukraine, PM Orban has reiterated that Hungary stands on the side of peace. () President Putin confirmed that if a peace summit takes place, it will be held in Budapest," he said on the X social network on Friday evening.

According to him, following the meeting, "Hungary's energy security is guaranteed." He said Putin had allegedly confirmed that "Russia will deliver the contracted volumes of gas and oil, on time, via both the Druzhba oil pipeline and the TurkStream gas pipeline."

Szijjarto also said the parties "agreed to significantly accelerate construction of the Paks nuclear power plant. All technical preparations are on schedule, and on 5 February work will begin on the ground."
Blackrock Income Trust (NYSE:BKT  Get Free Report) shares rose 0.6% during trading on Tuesday . The company traded as high as $11.14 and last traded at $11.1150. Approximately 144,392 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 28% from the average daily volume of 200,472 shares. The stock had previously closed at $11.05.

Blackrock Income Trust Stock Performance

The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $11.18 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $11.48.

Get Blackrock Income Trust alerts:

Blackrock Income Trust Announces Dividend

The company also recently announced a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, November 28th. Shareholders of record on Friday, November 14th will be paid a $0.0882 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 14th. This represents a c) annualized dividend and a yield of 9.5%.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Blackrock Income Trust

About Blackrock Income Trust

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Comerica Bank lifted its stake in shares of Blackrock Income Trust by 43.0% in the 3rd quarter. Comerica Bank now owns 10,533 shares of the companys stock valued at $118,000 after acquiring an additional 3,166 shares during the last quarter. M Holdings Securities Inc. bought a new position in shares of Blackrock Income Trust in the second quarter worth approximately $213,000. Steward Partners Investment Advisory LLC grew its holdings in shares of Blackrock Income Trust by 63.9% in the second quarter. Steward Partners Investment Advisory LLC now owns 19,642 shares of the companys stock worth $231,000 after purchasing an additional 7,660 shares during the last quarter. Quadcap Wealth Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of Blackrock Income Trust in the first quarter worth $342,000. Finally, Cetera Investment Advisers raised its holdings in Blackrock Income Trust by 14.7% during the 1st quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 39,650 shares of the companys stock valued at $470,000 after buying an additional 5,094 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 39.43% of the companys stock.

(Get Free Report)

BlackRock Income Trust, Inc is a closed ended fixed income mutual fund launched by BlackRock, Inc The fund is managed by BlackRock Advisors, LLC. It invests in the fixed income markets of the United States. The fund invests in securities of companies that operate across diversified sectors. It invests in securities such as U.S.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Blackrock Income Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Blackrock Income Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Photo: https://www.facebook.com/

Russian occupation forces launched artillery and FPV drone strikes on Synelnyky, Pokrovsk, Myriv and Marhanets communities of Dnipropetrovsk region, Head of the regional military administration Vladyslav Haivanenko said.

"The enemy struck Vasylkivska community in Synelnyky region with UAVs. Pokrovsk [community]  with KABs [aerial bombs]. A 37-year-old man and a 56-year-old woman were killed. Sincere condolences to their relatives and friends. There are also two victims," he said in the Telegram channel on Friday evening.

According to him, a household was destroyed, five more were damaged, and a lyceum was on fire.
Direxion Daily MSCI South Korea Bull 3x Shares (NYSEARCA:KORU  Get Free Report) shares fell 1.9% during trading on Tuesday . The stock traded as low as $130.11 and last traded at $138.40. 112,413 shares traded hands during trading, a decline of 37% from the average session volume of 177,868 shares. The stock had previously closed at $141.12.

Direxion Daily MSCI South Korea Bull 3x Shares Trading Up 5.9%

The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $139.35 and a 200 day simple moving average of $97.44. The stock has a market capitalization of $194.99 million, a PE ratio of 9.42 and a beta of 3.65.

Get Direxion Daily MSCI South Korea Bull 3x Shares alerts:

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Direxion Daily MSCI South Korea Bull 3x Shares

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the company. Sovereign Financial Group Inc. acquired a new position in Direxion Daily MSCI South Korea Bull 3x Shares in the 3rd quarter valued at $260,000. Group One Trading LLC increased its stake in shares of Direxion Daily MSCI South Korea Bull 3x Shares by 263.9% during the second quarter. Group One Trading LLC now owns 2,558 shares of the companys stock worth $207,000 after acquiring an additional 1,855 shares during the period. Virtu Financial LLC purchased a new position in Direxion Daily MSCI South Korea Bull 3x Shares during the first quarter worth about $366,000. Jump Financial LLC acquired a new stake in Direxion Daily MSCI South Korea Bull 3x Shares in the first quarter valued at about $487,000. Finally, Optiver Holding B.V. lifted its position in Direxion Daily MSCI South Korea Bull 3x Shares by 408.0% in the third quarter. Optiver Holding B.V. now owns 13,624 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,439,000 after purchasing an additional 10,942 shares during the period.

About Direxion Daily MSCI South Korea Bull 3x Shares

The Direxion Daily South Korea Bull 3X Shares (KORU) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI Korea 25-50 index. The fund provides 300% daily leveraged exposure to a market-cap-weighted index of large- and mid-cap South Korean companies. KORU was launched on Apr 11, 2013 and is managed by Direxion.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Direxion Daily MSCI South Korea Bull 3x Shares Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Direxion Daily MSCI South Korea Bull 3x Shares and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Technology ETF (NYSEARCA:RYT  Get Free Report)s stock price was up 1.9% on Tuesday . The stock traded as high as $43.5582 and last traded at $43.33. Approximately 3,383,601 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, an increase of 4,154% from the average daily volume of 79,542 shares. The stock had previously closed at $42.54.

Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Technology ETF Stock Up 1.3%

The businesss fifty day moving average is $44.80 and its 200-day moving average is $41.89. The company has a market cap of $416.17 million, a PE ratio of 26.94 and a beta of 1.18.

Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Technology ETF Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

The Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Technology ETF (RYT) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in information technology equity. The fund tracks an equal-weighted index of S&P 500 technology companies. RYT was launched on Nov 1, 2006 and is managed by Invesco.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Technology ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Technology ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Global Retirement Partners LLC acquired a new stake in iShares U.S. Tech Independence Focused ETF (BATS:IETC  Free Report) in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor acquired 10,613 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $998,000. Global Retirement Partners LLC owned about 0.15% of iShares U.S. Tech Independence Focused ETF at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of IETC. Vestor Capital LLC acquired a new position in shares of iShares U.S. Tech Independence Focused ETF during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $191,000. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted its position in iShares U.S. Tech Independence Focused ETF by 228.2% during the second quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 103,959 shares of the companys stock worth $9,772,000 after buying an additional 72,280 shares in the last quarter. Western Wealth Management LLC acquired a new position in iShares U.S. Tech Independence Focused ETF during the second quarter worth $212,000. Cetera Investment Advisers boosted its stake in iShares U.S. Tech Independence Focused ETF by 11.1% during the second quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 3,622 shares of the companys stock worth $340,000 after buying an additional 361 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Beacon Harbor Wealth Advisors Inc. purchased a new stake in iShares U.S. Tech Independence Focused ETF in the 2nd quarter valued at $12,150,000.

Get iShares U.S. Tech Independence Focused ETF alerts:

iShares U.S. Tech Independence Focused ETF Stock Up 20.5%

Shares of IETC opened at $101.22 on Friday. iShares U.S. Tech Independence Focused ETF has a 52-week low of $64.06 and a 52-week high of $98.03. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $102.57 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $97.14. The company has a market capitalization of $728.77 million, a PE ratio of 37.47 and a beta of 1.18.

iShares U.S. Tech Independence Focused ETF Profile

The iShares Evolved U.S. Technology ETF (IETC) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI USA IMI Information Technology index. The fund is an actively managed fund of US stocks in the information technology sector according to an alternative classification system defined by machine learning algorithms.

See Also

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding IETC? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares U.S. Tech Independence Focused ETF (BATS:IETC  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for iShares U.S. Tech Independence Focused ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares U.S. Tech Independence Focused ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Canaccord Genuity Group restated their buy rating on shares of ActiveOps (LON:AOM  Free Report) in a research report report published on Thursday,Digital Look reports. Canaccord Genuity Group currently has a GBX 355 price target on the stock.

ActiveOps Stock Performance

LON:AOM traded up GBX 1 during mid-day trading on Thursday, hitting GBX 238. 203,096 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 175,387. The stocks fifty day moving average price is GBX 211.06 and its 200-day moving average price is GBX 172.85. ActiveOps has a one year low of GBX 79.50 and a one year high of GBX 261.50. The company has a quick ratio of 1.20, a current ratio of 1.17 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 3.50. The firm has a market cap of 169.88 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 161.90 and a beta of 0.40.

Get ActiveOps alerts:

ActiveOps (LON:AOM  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, November 27th. The company reported GBX (1.31) EPS for the quarter. ActiveOps had a return on equity of 0.01% and a net margin of 4.41%. Research analysts anticipate that ActiveOps will post 2.5966851 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

About ActiveOps

ActiveOps offerings provide predictive and prescriptive insight to help service operations make better decisions  faster. The Companys AI-powered SaaS solutions are underpinned by 15+ years of operational data and its AOM methodology thats proven to drive cross department decision-making.

With Decision Intelligence, ActiveOps customers deliver MORE  release 20%+ capacity within the first 12 months and boost productivity by 30%+ leading to MORE business impact.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for ActiveOps Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for ActiveOps and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Highwoods Properties, Inc. (NYSE:HIW  Get Free Report) has been given a consensus recommendation of Hold by the seven research firms that are presently covering the firm, MarketBeat.com reports. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell recommendation, four have given a hold recommendation and two have given a buy recommendation to the company. The average 12-month price target among analysts that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is $31.00.

A number of brokerages have weighed in on HIW. Wolfe Research assumed coverage on Highwoods Properties in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. They issued an outperform rating and a $38.00 price target on the stock. Truist Financial lifted their price objective on Highwoods Properties from $32.00 to $33.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a report on Wednesday, September 3rd. New Street Research set a $30.00 target price on shares of Highwoods Properties in a report on Monday, October 13th. Morgan Stanley increased their target price on shares of Highwoods Properties from $23.00 to $24.00 and gave the stock an underweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 21st. Finally, Wall Street Zen cut shares of Highwoods Properties from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research note on Sunday, October 19th.

Get Highwoods Properties alerts:

View Our Latest Research Report on Highwoods Properties

Highwoods Properties Stock Performance

NYSE:HIW opened at $27.88 on Friday. The firm has a market capitalization of $3.06 billion, a PE ratio of 23.83 and a beta of 1.20. The company has a quick ratio of 1.38, a current ratio of 1.39 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.44. Highwoods Properties has a 12-month low of $24.18 and a 12-month high of $33.11. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $29.70 and a 200 day moving average price of $30.26.

Highwoods Properties (NYSE:HIW  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, October 28th. The real estate investment trust reported $0.86 earnings per share for the quarter, meeting analysts consensus estimates of $0.86. Highwoods Properties had a return on equity of 5.48% and a net margin of 15.98%.The company had revenue of $201.77 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $205.74 million. During the same period in the previous year, the business earned $0.90 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was down 1.2% on a year-over-year basis. Highwoods Properties has set its FY 2025 guidance at 3.410-3.45 EPS. Research analysts anticipate that Highwoods Properties will post 3.36 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Highwoods Properties Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 9th. Shareholders of record on Monday, November 17th will be issued a dividend of $0.50 per share. This represents a $2.00 annualized dividend and a yield of 7.2%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, November 17th. Highwoods Propertiess payout ratio is currently 170.94%.

Insider Transactions at Highwoods Properties

In other Highwoods Properties news, Director David John Hartzell sold 4,300 shares of Highwoods Properties stock in a transaction on Wednesday, September 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $32.10, for a total transaction of $138,030.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director owned 27,489 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $882,396.90. The trade was a 13.53% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Insiders own 1.90% of the companys stock.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Large investors have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd boosted its position in shares of Highwoods Properties by 88.6% in the 3rd quarter. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd now owns 792 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $25,000 after purchasing an additional 372 shares during the last quarter. Bell Investment Advisors Inc lifted its stake in Highwoods Properties by 921.4% in the third quarter. Bell Investment Advisors Inc now owns 858 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $27,000 after buying an additional 774 shares during the period. Avalon Trust Co bought a new position in Highwoods Properties during the first quarter worth about $35,000. SJS Investment Consulting Inc. acquired a new position in shares of Highwoods Properties during the 3rd quarter worth about $49,000. Finally, Geneos Wealth Management Inc. grew its position in shares of Highwoods Properties by 292.5% during the 1st quarter. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. now owns 1,680 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $50,000 after buying an additional 1,252 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 96.31% of the companys stock.

Highwoods Properties Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Highwoods Properties, Inc, headquartered in Raleigh, is a publicly-traded (NYSE:HIW), fully-integrated office real estate investment trust (REIT) that owns, develops, acquires, leases and manages properties primarily in the best business districts (BBDs) of Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas, Nashville, Orlando, Raleigh, Richmond and Tampa.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for Highwoods Properties Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Highwoods Properties and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
BigBear.ai, Upstart, SoundHound AI, Hut 8, Tempus AI, Fluence Energy, and Ambarella are the seven Artificial Intelligence stocks to watch today, according to MarketBeats stock screener tool. Artificial intelligence stocks are shares of companies that develop, manufacture, or widely deploy AI technologies  for example chipmakers, software and cloud providers, and firms using machine learning to power products and services. Investors buy these stocks to gain exposure to potential growth from AI advances, but the term is broad and can include companies with very different levels of AI involvement and risk. These companies had the highest dollar trading volume of any Artificial Intelligence stocks within the last several days.

Get alerts:

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.

Upstart (UPST)

Upstart Holdings, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, operates a cloud-based artificial intelligence (AI) lending platform in the United States. Its platform includes personal loans, automotive retail and refinance loans, home equity lines of credit, and small dollar loans that connects consumer demand for loans to its to bank and credit unions.

Read Our Latest Research Report on UPST

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.

Read Our Latest Research Report on SOUN

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.

Read Our Latest Research Report on HUT

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

Fluence Energy (FLNC)

Fluence Energy, Inc., through its subsidiaries, offers energy storage products and solution, services, and artificial intelligence enabled software-as-a-service products for renewables and storage applications in the Americas, the Asia Pacific, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. The company sells energy storage products with integrated hardware, software, and digital intelligence.

Read Our Latest Research Report on FLNC

Ambarella (AMBA)

Ambarella, Inc. develops semiconductor solutions that enable high-definition (HD) and ultra HD compression, image signal processing, and artificial intelligence processing worldwide. The company's system-on-a-chip designs integrated HD video processing, image processing, artificial intelligence computer vision algorithms, audio processing, and system functions onto a single chip for delivering video and image quality, differentiated functionality, and low power consumption.

Read Our Latest Research Report on AMBA

Recommended Stories
Black Iron Inc. (TSE:BKI  Get Free Report) shares passed above its 200-day moving average during trading on Thursday . The stock has a 200-day moving average of C$0.11 and traded as high as C$0.14. Black Iron shares last traded at C$0.14, with a volume of 167,204 shares trading hands.

Black Iron Stock Performance

The companys fifty day moving average price is C$0.11 and its 200-day moving average price is C$0.11. The stock has a market cap of C$41.34 million, a P/E ratio of -13.50 and a beta of 1.61.

Get Black Iron alerts:

Black Iron (TSE:BKI  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, November 4th. The company reported C$0.00 earnings per share for the quarter. Analysts anticipate that Black Iron Inc. will post -0.05 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

About Black Iron

Black Iron Inc is a Canadian iron ore exploration and development company. The principal activity of the company is the exploration and development of ferrous metals in Ukraine namely the Shymanivske iron ore project located in Kryvyi Rih, Ukraine. The company operates through the development of its Ukrainian mining and exploration permits segment.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Black Iron Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Black Iron and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of Birkenstock Holding PLC (NYSE:BIRK  Get Free Report) have received a consensus recommendation of Buy from the sixteen research firms that are covering the stock, MarketBeat.com reports. One analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating, fourteen have assigned a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating on the company. The average 1 year price target among brokerages that have issued ratings on the stock in the last year is $68.3846.

A number of equities research analysts have recently issued reports on the company. Telsey Advisory Group restated an outperform rating and set a $70.00 price objective on shares of Birkenstock in a report on Friday, September 26th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lowered their price objective on Birkenstock from $81.00 to $66.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, September 19th. UBS Group set a $77.00 target price on shares of Birkenstock and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, August 5th. Finally, Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c-) rating on shares of Birkenstock in a research report on Tuesday.

Get Birkenstock alerts:

Read Our Latest Stock Report on Birkenstock

Birkenstock Price Performance

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Birkenstock

Shares of BIRK opened at $43.56 on Tuesday. The firm has a market capitalization of $8.18 billion, a PE ratio of 24.20, a PEG ratio of 0.83 and a beta of 1.22. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.50, a current ratio of 2.78 and a quick ratio of 1.29. The companys 50-day moving average is $42.40 and its 200-day moving average is $48.04. Birkenstock has a fifty-two week low of $38.16 and a fifty-two week high of $62.66.

Several institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. increased its position in shares of Birkenstock by 2,514.6% in the first quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 8,785 shares of the companys stock worth $403,000 after purchasing an additional 8,449 shares during the period. Peregrine Capital Management LLC bought a new position in Birkenstock in the 2nd quarter valued at about $8,422,000. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC acquired a new position in shares of Birkenstock in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $320,000. AGF Management Ltd. lifted its holdings in shares of Birkenstock by 72.8% during the 2nd quarter. AGF Management Ltd. now owns 2,038,210 shares of the companys stock worth $100,239,000 after acquiring an additional 858,522 shares during the period. Finally, U S Global Investors Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of Birkenstock during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $861,000. 19.93% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

About Birkenstock

(Get Free Report)

Birkenstock Holding plc manufactures and sells footwear products. It also offers sandals, shoes, closed-toe silhouettes, skincare products, and accessories. The company sells its products through e-commerce sites and a network of owned retail stores, as well as business-to-business channels. It operates in the United States, Brazil, Canada, Mexico, Europe, APMA, and internationally.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Birkenstock Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Birkenstock and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Measured Wealth Private Client Group LLC lifted its holdings in Cambria Emerging Shareholder Yield ETF (BATS:EYLD  Free Report) by 29.9% in the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 45,264 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 10,416 shares during the quarter. Measured Wealth Private Client Group LLCs holdings in Cambria Emerging Shareholder Yield ETF were worth $1,635,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Independence Bank of Kentucky acquired a new position in Cambria Emerging Shareholder Yield ETF during the 2nd quarter valued at about $33,000. Mutual Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Cambria Emerging Shareholder Yield ETF during the second quarter worth about $210,000. J.W. Cole Advisors Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Cambria Emerging Shareholder Yield ETF by 4.6% during the second quarter. J.W. Cole Advisors Inc. now owns 6,802 shares of the companys stock valued at $246,000 after acquiring an additional 298 shares in the last quarter. Foundations Investment Advisors LLC increased its holdings in shares of Cambria Emerging Shareholder Yield ETF by 7.8% during the first quarter. Foundations Investment Advisors LLC now owns 10,368 shares of the companys stock valued at $329,000 after acquiring an additional 754 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Focus Financial Network Inc. raised its position in shares of Cambria Emerging Shareholder Yield ETF by 17.2% in the 2nd quarter. Focus Financial Network Inc. now owns 10,703 shares of the companys stock valued at $387,000 after purchasing an additional 1,568 shares during the last quarter.

Get Cambria Emerging Shareholder Yield ETF alerts:

Cambria Emerging Shareholder Yield ETF Stock Up 24.8%

EYLD stock opened at $38.66 on Friday. The stock has a market capitalization of $564.44 million, a PE ratio of 9.92 and a beta of 0.69. Cambria Emerging Shareholder Yield ETF has a 52 week low of $27.30 and a 52 week high of $37.50. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $37.95 and a 200 day moving average of $36.86.

Cambria Emerging Shareholder Yield ETF Dividend Announcement

Cambria Emerging Shareholder Yield ETF Profile

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, September 19th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, September 18th were issued a dividend of $0.6768 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, September 18th. This represents a $2.71 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 7.0%.

(Free Report)

The Cambria Emerging Shareholder Yield ETF (EYLD) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in total market equity. The fund is actively managed to invest in emerging market stocks focused on shareholder yield, as measured by dividend payments and net share buybacks. EYLD was launched on Jul 14, 2016 and is managed by Cambria.

Recommended Stories

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding EYLD? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Cambria Emerging Shareholder Yield ETF (BATS:EYLD  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Cambria Emerging Shareholder Yield ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Cambria Emerging Shareholder Yield ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
CAVA Group, Inc. (NYSE:CAVA  Get Free Report) insider Kenneth Robert Bertram sold 3,788 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, November 26th. The shares were sold at an average price of $50.70, for a total value of $192,051.60. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider owned 51,143 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,592,950.10. This represents a 6.90% 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.

CAVA Group Trading Down 1.2%

Shares of CAVA Group stock traded down $0.62 on Friday, reaching $49.03. 1,306,476 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 3,963,388. CAVA Group, Inc. has a one year low of $43.41 and a one year high of $153.34. The company has a 50-day moving average of $57.10 and a 200 day moving average of $71.68. The company has a market capitalization of $5.69 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 42.27, a PEG ratio of 2.81 and a beta of 2.47.

Get CAVA Group alerts:

CAVA Group (NYSE:CAVA  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, November 4th. The company reported $0.12 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.13 by ($0.01). CAVA Group had a net margin of 12.14% and a return on equity of 8.88%. The firm had revenue of $292.24 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $292.88 million. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $0.15 earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 19.9% on a year-over-year basis. Analysts predict that CAVA Group, Inc. will post 0.5 earnings per share for the current year.

Analyst Ratings Changes

CAVA has been the topic of a number of recent analyst reports. Morgan Stanley set a $86.00 target price on CAVA Group in a report on Wednesday, November 5th. Argus dropped their price objective on shares of CAVA Group from $76.00 to $60.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, November 13th. Bank of America reduced their target price on shares of CAVA Group from $121.00 to $100.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, August 13th. Sanford C. Bernstein decreased their price target on shares of CAVA Group from $100.00 to $80.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, November 5th. Finally, Piper Sandler cut their price objective on shares of CAVA Group from $100.00 to $71.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, November 5th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, thirteen have issued a Buy rating and nine 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 $81.75.

View Our Latest Report on CAVA Group

Institutional Investors Weigh In On CAVA Group

A number of large investors have recently modified their holdings of the business. Vision Financial Markets LLC acquired a new position in shares of CAVA Group during the 1st quarter worth $26,000. Dagco Inc. acquired a new position in CAVA Group during the first quarter worth about $27,000. Cornerstone Planning Group LLC lifted its holdings in shares of CAVA Group by 378.7% in the third quarter. Cornerstone Planning Group LLC now owns 450 shares of the companys stock worth $27,000 after acquiring an additional 356 shares during the last quarter. Atlantic Union Bankshares Corp acquired a new stake in shares of CAVA Group in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $31,000. Finally, Toth Financial Advisory Corp grew its holdings in shares of CAVA Group by 656.7% during the 3rd quarter. Toth Financial Advisory Corp now owns 507 shares of the companys stock valued at $31,000 after purchasing an additional 440 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 73.15% of the companys stock.

About CAVA Group

(Get Free Report)

CAVA Group, Inc owns and operates a chain of restaurants under the CAVA brand in the United States. The company also offers dips, spreads, and dressings through grocery stores. In addition, the company provides online and mobile ordering platforms. Cava Group, Inc was founded in 2006 and is headquartered in Washington, the District of Columbia.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for CAVA Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for CAVA Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
The Czech initiative "Gift for Putin" (Darek pro Putina) is reviewing plans to purchase the Flamingo missile, due to the fact that the missile manufacturer is allegedly connected to Timur Mindich, who found himself at the center of a corruption scandal in the energy sector, iDNES.cz has reported.

"The Czech initiative 'Gift for Putin' is reviewing plans to purchase the Flamingo missile, for which CZK 12.5 million were collected as part of the commemoration of Dana Drabova. The missile manufacturer is connected to Ukrainian 'businessman' Timur Mindich, who found himself at the center of a giant corruption scandal," the publication said on Friday.

"We are currently resolving this issue. We are looking for an alternative and are continuing negotiations with them," founder of the Gift for Putin initiative Dalibor Dedek said. The initiative still has the funds raised in its account and has not transferred them to the Fire Point company, which produces Flamingo missiles.

As previously reported, in the Czech Republic, the Gift for Putin (Darek pro Putina) initiative raised funds, in particular, for six howitzers for the Armed Forces of Ukraine and a Black Hawk UH-60 helicopter worth $3 million.
Chatham Rock Phosphate Limited (CVE:NZP  Get Free Report)s stock price hit a new 52-week low during trading on Friday . The stock traded as low as C$0.04 and last traded at C$0.04, with a volume of 50000 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at C$0.05.

Chatham Rock Phosphate Price Performance

The company has a current ratio of 0.69, a quick ratio of 10.98 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.67. The company has a market capitalization of C$4.49 million, a PE ratio of -4.71 and a beta of 1.05. The stocks 50-day moving average is C$0.04 and its two-hundred day moving average is C$0.05.

Chatham Rock Phosphate Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Chatham Rock Phosphate Limited operates as a mineral development company in New Zealand, French Polynesia, and Australia. It focuses on the development and exploitation of the Chatham Rise rock phosphate deposit, which comprises a mining permit covering an area of 820 square kilometers located in New Zealand; and Makatea phosphate project.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Chatham Rock Phosphate Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Chatham Rock Phosphate and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of China Sunergy Co Ltd (OTCMKTS:CSUNY  Get Free Report) passed above its 200-day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a 200-day moving average of $0.02 and traded as high as $0.0278. China Sunergy shares last traded at $0.0162, with a volume of 7,100 shares traded.

China Sunergy Price Performance

The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $0.02 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $0.02.

China Sunergy Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

China Sunergy Co, Ltd., together with its subsidiaries, designs, develops, manufactures, and markets solar cells and modules in the People's Republic of China and internationally. The company offers monocrystalline and multicrystalline silicon solar cells; and standard P-type solar cells, HP solar cells, and emitter cells, as well as solar modules for use in a range of residential, commercial, industrial, and other solar power generation systems.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for China Sunergy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for China Sunergy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE:CHH  Get Free Report) has received a consensus recommendation of Reduce from the fourteen brokerages that are covering the company, Marketbeat reports. Five equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, six have assigned a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the company. The average 1 year price target among brokers that have issued ratings on the stock in the last year is $115.8462.

Several brokerages have weighed in on CHH. Wells Fargo & Company started coverage on Choice Hotels International in a research report on Tuesday, November 18th. They set an underweight rating and a $84.00 price target on the stock. Barclays lowered their target price on Choice Hotels International from $101.00 to $99.00 and set an underweight rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, November 7th. Robert W. Baird reduced their price target on Choice Hotels International from $122.00 to $110.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, November 18th. Argus lowered their price objective on Choice Hotels International from $140.00 to $120.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, November 7th. Finally, Bank of America cut shares of Choice Hotels International from a buy rating to an underperform rating and set a $110.00 price objective on the stock. in a research note on Monday, September 29th.

Get Choice Hotels International alerts:

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on CHH

Choice Hotels International Trading Down 0.7%

CHH opened at $91.53 on Friday. Choice Hotels International has a 12-month low of $86.49 and a 12-month high of $157.86. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $98.82 and a two-hundred day moving average of $116.07. The firm has a market capitalization of $4.24 billion, a PE ratio of 14.08, a P/E/G ratio of 6.60 and a beta of 0.84.

Choice Hotels International (NYSE:CHH  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, November 5th. The company reported $2.10 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $2.18 by ($0.08). Choice Hotels International had a negative return on equity of 575.73% and a net margin of 19.52%.The business had revenue of $278.00 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $419.75 million. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company earned $2.23 EPS. The firms revenue was up 4.4% compared to the same quarter last year. Choice Hotels International has set its FY 2025 guidance at 6.820-7.050 EPS. As a group, analysts predict that Choice Hotels International will post 7.07 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Choice Hotels International Dividend Announcement

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, October 16th. Investors of record on Wednesday, October 1st were given a dividend of $0.2875 per share. This represents a $1.15 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.3%. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, October 1st. Choice Hotels Internationals dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 14.13%.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Choice Hotels International

Hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the company. Advisory Services Network LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Choice Hotels International during the 3rd quarter valued at about $57,000. Morningstar Investment Management LLC purchased a new position in Choice Hotels International during the third quarter worth approximately $348,000. Armistice Capital LLC acquired a new stake in Choice Hotels International in the third quarter valued at approximately $293,000. CANADA LIFE ASSURANCE Co increased its position in shares of Choice Hotels International by 1.0% in the third quarter. CANADA LIFE ASSURANCE Co now owns 22,345 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,421,000 after buying an additional 225 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Dark Forest Capital Management LP purchased a new stake in shares of Choice Hotels International in the third quarter valued at approximately $986,000. 65.57% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Choice Hotels International Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Choice Hotels International, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, operates as a hotel franchisor in the United States and internationally. It operates through Hotel Franchising & Management and Corporate & Other segments. The company franchises lodging properties under the brand names of Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Clarion, Clarion Pointe, Sleep Inn, Ascend Hotel Collection, Econo Lodge, Rodeway Inn, MainStay Suites, Suburban Studios, WoodSpring Suites, Everhome Suites, Cambria Hotels, Radisson Blu, Radisson RED, Radisson, Park Plaza, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Radisson Inn & Suites, Park Inn by Radisson, Radisson Individuals, and Radisson Collection.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Choice Hotels International Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Choice Hotels International and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Marriott Vacations Worldwide (NYSE:VAC  Get Free Report) and Planet Fitness (NYSE:PLNT  Get Free Report) are both consumer discretionary companies, but which is the better business? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their risk, valuation, analyst recommendations, dividends, institutional ownership, profitability and earnings.

Profitability

This table compares Marriott Vacations Worldwide and Planet Fitness net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Get Marriott Vacations Worldwide alerts:

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Marriott Vacations Worldwide 3.44% 11.44% 2.83% Planet Fitness 15.97% -126.58% 8.08%

Institutional and Insider Ownership

89.5% of Marriott Vacations Worldwide shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 95.5% of Planet Fitness shares are owned by institutional investors. 1.6% of Marriott Vacations Worldwide shares are owned by company insiders. Comparatively, 5.9% of Planet Fitness shares are owned by company 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.

Volatility & Risk

Valuation and Earnings

Marriott Vacations Worldwide has a beta of 1.5, indicating that its share price is 50% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Planet Fitness has a beta of 1.37, indicating that its share price is 37% more volatile than the S&P 500.

This table compares Marriott Vacations Worldwide and Planet Fitnesss top-line revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Marriott Vacations Worldwide $4.97 billion 0.38 $218.00 million $4.46 12.22 Planet Fitness $1.18 billion 7.70 $172.04 million $2.45 44.60

Marriott Vacations Worldwide has higher revenue and earnings than Planet Fitness. Marriott Vacations Worldwide is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Planet Fitness, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Analyst Ratings

This is a breakdown of current recommendations for Marriott Vacations Worldwide and Planet Fitness, as reported by MarketBeat.com.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Marriott Vacations Worldwide 4 1 4 0 2.00 Planet Fitness 0 3 12 1 2.88

Marriott Vacations Worldwide presently has a consensus target price of $63.38, suggesting a potential upside of 16.31%. Planet Fitness has a consensus target price of $117.23, suggesting a potential upside of 7.29%. Given Marriott Vacations Worldwides higher possible upside, analysts clearly believe Marriott Vacations Worldwide is more favorable than Planet Fitness.

Summary

Planet Fitness beats Marriott Vacations Worldwide on 9 of the 15 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Marriott Vacations Worldwide

(Get Free Report)

Marriott Vacations Worldwide Corporation, a vacation company, develops, markets, sells, and manages vacation ownership and related businesses, products, and services in the United States and internationally. It operates through two segments, Vacation Ownership and Exchange & Third-Party Management. The company manages vacation ownership and related products under the Marriott Vacation Club, Grand Residences by Marriott, Sheraton Vacation Club, Westin Vacation Club, Hyatt Vacation Club, and Marriott Vacation Club Pulse brands. It develops, markets, and sells vacation ownership and related products under The Ritz-Carlton Destination Club brand; and holds right to develop, market, and sell ownership residential products under The Ritz-Carlton Residences brand. In addition, the company offers exchange networks and membership programs, as well as provision of management services to other resorts and lodging properties through Interval International, and Aqua-Aston business brands. Further, it provides financing consumer purchases of vacation ownership products, and renting vacation ownership inventory. The company sells its upscale tier vacation ownership products primarily through a network of resort-based sales centers and off-site sales locations. The company was founded in 1984 and is headquartered in Orlando, Florida.

About Planet Fitness

(Get Free Report)

Planet Fitness, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, franchises and operates fitness centers under the Planet Fitness brand. The company operates through three segments: Franchise, Corporate-Owned Stores, and Equipment. The company is involved in franchising business in the United States, Puerto Rico, Canada, Panama, Mexico, and Australia. It engages in the sale of fitness equipment to franchisee-owned stores in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. In addition, the company operates corporate-owned stores in the United States and Canada. Planet Fitness, Inc. was founded in 1992 and is headquartered in Hampton, New Hampshire.

Receive News & Ratings for Marriott Vacations Worldwide Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Marriott Vacations Worldwide and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
PPG Industries (NYSE:PPG  Get Free Report) and Westaim (OTCMKTS:WEDXF  Get Free Report) are both basic materials companies, but which is the superior investment? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their risk, analyst recommendations, earnings, dividends, valuation, profitability and institutional ownership.

Insider & Institutional Ownership

81.9% of PPG Industries shares are owned by institutional investors. 0.3% of PPG Industries shares are owned by company insiders. Comparatively, 4.2% of Westaim shares are owned by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, large money managers and endowments believe a company is poised for long-term growth.

Get PPG Industries alerts:

Dividends

PPG Industries pays an annual dividend of $2.84 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.8%. Westaim pays an annual dividend of $0.09 per share and has a dividend yield of 0.6%. PPG Industries pays out 64.4% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Westaim pays out -5.3% 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. PPG Industries has increased its dividend for 54 consecutive years. PPG Industries is clearly the better dividend stock, given its higher yield and longer track record of dividend growth.

Volatility & Risk

Profitability

PPG Industries has a beta of 1.19, meaning that its stock price is 19% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Westaim has a beta of 0.2, meaning that its stock price is 80% less volatile than the S&P 500.

This table compares PPG Industries and Westaims net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets PPG Industries 6.35% 24.17% 9.91% Westaim -118.02% -5.51% -4.97%

Earnings and Valuation

This table compares PPG Industries and Westaims gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio PPG Industries $15.69 billion 1.43 $1.12 billion $4.41 22.68 Westaim $17.04 million 31.03 -$16.18 million ($1.69) -9.33

PPG Industries has higher revenue and earnings than Westaim. Westaim is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than PPG Industries, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Analyst Recommendations

This is a breakdown of recent recommendations and price targets for PPG Industries and Westaim, as reported by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score PPG Industries 1 9 6 1 2.41 Westaim 0 0 0 0 0.00

PPG Industries currently has a consensus price target of $123.64, suggesting a potential upside of 23.63%. Given PPG Industries stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, equities research analysts clearly believe PPG Industries is more favorable than Westaim.

Summary

PPG Industries beats Westaim on 15 of the 18 factors compared between the two stocks.

About PPG Industries

(Get Free Report)

PPG Industries, Inc. manufactures and distributes paints, coatings, and specialty materials in the United States, Canada, the Asia Pacific, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. It operates through two segments, Performance Coatings and Industrial Coatings. The Performance Coatings segment offers coatings, solvents, adhesives, sealants, sundries, and software for automotive and commercial transport/fleet repair and refurbishing, light industrial coatings, and specialty coatings for signs; wood stains; paints, thermoplastics, pavement marking products, and other advanced technologies for pavement marking for government, commercial infrastructure, painting, and maintenance contractors; and coatings, sealants, transparencies, transparent armor, adhesives, engineered materials, and packaging and chemical management services for commercial, military, regional jet, and general aviation aircraft. The Industrial Coatings segment offers coatings, adhesives and sealants, and metal pretreatments, as well as services and coatings applications for appliances, agricultural and construction equipment, consumer electronics, automotive parts and accessories, building products, kitchenware, and transportation vehicles and other finished products; and on-site coatings services. It also provides coatings for metal cans, closures, plastic and aluminum tubes for food, beverage and personal care, promotional, and specialty packaging; amorphous precipitated silica for tire, battery separator, and other end-uses; TESLIN substrates for labels, e-passports, drivers' licenses, breathable membranes, and loyalty and identification cards; and organic light emitting diode materials, displays and lighting lens materials, optical lenses, color-change products, and photochromic dyes. PPG Industries, Inc. was incorporated in 1883 and is headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

About Westaim

(Get Free Report)

The Westaim Corporation is a private equity firm specializing in direct and indirect investments through acquisitions, joint ventures, secondary investments both direct and indirect, fund of fund investments, and other arrangements. For direct investments, the firm invests in early venture, mid venture, late venture, middle market, later stage, mature, emerging growth, PIPEs, and buyout transactions. For fund of fund investments, it seeks to invest in private equity funds, venture capital funds, and hedge funds. The firm seeks to provide long term capital to businesses operating in the global financial services industry. It typically acquires controlling interests in businesses. The firm seeks to acquire debt, equity, or derivative securities of both public and private companies. It invests with the objective of providing its shareholders with capital appreciation and real wealth preservation. The firm seeks to provide its portfolio companies with advisory services including, but not limited to, advice on capital allocation, financing strategy, performance measurement and merger and acquisition support. It also seeks to partner with like-minded providers of third party capital to help supplement the firm's own capital, when completing acquisitions. The firm generally seeks to hold its investments for seven to 15 years. The Westaim Corporation was founded in 1996 and is based in Toronto, Canada.

Receive News & Ratings for PPG Industries Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for PPG Industries and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
CreativeOne Wealth LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF (NYSEARCA:SPHQ  Free Report) by 89.5% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 13,680 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 6,460 shares during the quarter. CreativeOne Wealth LLCs holdings in Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF were worth $975,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of the stock. Berkshire Money Management Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF during the 2nd quarter valued at $28,000. Independence Bank of Kentucky bought a new position in Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF in the second quarter valued at $33,000. Resources Management Corp CT ADV purchased a new stake in Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF during the first quarter valued at about $44,000. Bogart Wealth LLC raised its position in Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF by 19.2% during the second quarter. Bogart Wealth LLC now owns 964 shares of the companys stock valued at $69,000 after purchasing an additional 155 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Atlantic Private Wealth LLC bought a new stake in Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF during the first quarter worth about $74,000.

Get Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF alerts:

Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF Trading Up 0.5%

Shares of Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF stock opened at $74.38 on Friday. The firm has a market capitalization of $15.16 billion, a PE ratio of 25.36 and a beta of 0.92. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $73.57 and its 200-day moving average price is $72.11. Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF has a 12 month low of $57.67 and a 12 month high of $75.03.

Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF Company Profile

The Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF (SPHQ) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the S&P 500 Quality index. The fund tracks an index of US large-cap stocks selected by return on equity, changes in net operating assets and financial leverage. Stocks are weighted by these quality factors, scaled by market cap.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding SPHQ? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF (NYSEARCA:SPHQ  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Currys (LON:CURY  Get Free Report)s stock had its buy rating restated by research analysts at Berenberg Bank in a research note issued on Thursday,Digital Look reports. They currently have a GBX 200 price objective on the stock. Berenberg Banks price target suggests a potential upside of 51.86% from the companys current price.

Separately, Citigroup upped their price target on Currys from GBX 150 to GBX 166 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, October 29th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Buy and an average price target of GBX 165.33.

Get Currys alerts:

Get Our Latest Stock Report on CURY

Currys Stock Performance

Shares of LON CURY remained flat at GBX 131.70 during midday trading on Thursday. 1,044,471 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 6,290,666. Currys has a twelve month low of GBX 75.60 and a twelve month high of GBX 147.20. The stock has a market capitalization of 1.39 billion, a P/E ratio of 13.86 and a beta of 1.31. The stock has a 50 day moving average price of GBX 136.88 and a 200 day moving average price of GBX 125.82. The company has a current ratio of 0.86, a quick ratio of 0.29 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 45.83.

Currys announced that its board has initiated a share buyback plan on Thursday, September 4th that permits the company to buyback 0 outstanding shares. This buyback authorization permits the company to reacquire shares of its stock through open market purchases. Stock buyback plans are usually a sign that the companys board of directors believes its shares are undervalued.

About Currys

(Get Free Report)

Currys plc is a leading omnichannel retailer of technology products and services, operating online and through over 800

stores in 8 countries. We Help Everyone Enjoy Amazing Technology, however they choose to shop with us.

In the UK & Ireland we trade as Currys; in the Nordics under the Elkjp brand and as Kotsovolos in Greece.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Currys Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Currys and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Earnings & Valuation

This table compares Deutsche Wohnen and its rivals gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio Deutsche Wohnen $1.49 billion -$638.98 million -14.94 Deutsche Wohnen Competitors $3.48 billion $120.05 million 39.19

Deutsche Wohnens rivals have higher revenue and earnings than Deutsche Wohnen. Deutsche Wohnen is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than its rivals, indicating that it is currently more affordable than other companies in its industry.

Get Deutsche Wohnen alerts:

Risk and Volatility

Deutsche Wohnen has a beta of 0.82, suggesting that its stock price is 18% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Deutsche Wohnens rivals have a beta of 0.92, suggesting that their average stock price is 8% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Insider and Institutional Ownership

Profitability

58.4% of shares of all REAL ESTATE OPS companies are held by institutional investors. 22.2% of shares of all REAL ESTATE OPS companies are held by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, hedge funds and large money managers believe a stock will outperform the market over the long term.

This table compares Deutsche Wohnen and its rivals net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Deutsche Wohnen N/A N/A N/A Deutsche Wohnen Competitors -0.05% -21.16% -0.46%

Summary

Deutsche Wohnen rivals beat Deutsche Wohnen on 6 of the 9 factors compared.

About Deutsche Wohnen

(Get Free Report)

Deutsche Wohnen SE develops and manages residential properties in Germany. The company operates through Rental, Value-add, Recurring Sales, Development, and Care segment. The Rental segment offers value-enhancing management to residential real estate portfolio. The Value- add segment engages in the core business of letting. This segment also includes multimedia services and the supply of energy. The Recurring Sales segment includes sales of individual condominiums and single-family homes. The Development segment includes project development to create new living space. The care segment includes all activities related to the management of care facilities and the leasing of care properties. Deutsche Wohnen SE was founded in 1924 and is headquartered in Berlin, Germany. Deutsche Wohnen SE operates as a subsidiary of Vonovia SE.

Receive News & Ratings for Deutsche Wohnen Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Deutsche Wohnen and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Russell Investments Group Ltd. grew its stake in shares of EastGroup Properties, Inc. (NYSE:EGP  Free Report) by 3.9% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 315,185 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after buying an additional 11,776 shares during the period. Russell Investments Group Ltd. owned 0.59% of EastGroup Properties worth $52,674,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the stock. Assetmark Inc. increased its position in EastGroup Properties by 1,035.7% during the 1st quarter. Assetmark Inc. now owns 159 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $28,000 after purchasing an additional 145 shares in the last quarter. Hilltop National Bank acquired a new stake in shares of EastGroup Properties during the 2nd quarter worth about $111,000. First Eagle Investment Management LLC boosted its stake in shares of EastGroup Properties by 51.9% during the 2nd quarter. First Eagle Investment Management LLC now owns 831 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $139,000 after purchasing an additional 284 shares during the last quarter. Jones Financial Companies Lllp grew its holdings in shares of EastGroup Properties by 18,900.0% during the first quarter. Jones Financial Companies Lllp now owns 950 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $167,000 after buying an additional 945 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Choreo LLC acquired a new position in shares of EastGroup Properties in the first quarter valued at approximately $203,000. 92.14% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Get EastGroup Properties alerts:

EastGroup Properties Trading Up 0.3%

EGP stock opened at $181.44 on Friday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.01, a current ratio of 0.01 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.42. The company has a market cap of $9.68 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 38.12, a PEG ratio of 3.67 and a beta of 1.04. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $174.78 and a 200-day simple moving average of $169.98. EastGroup Properties, Inc. has a 52 week low of $137.67 and a 52 week high of $188.89.

Insider Activity

EastGroup Properties ( NYSE:EGP Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 23rd. The real estate investment trust reported $2.27 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $2.28 by ($0.01). The firm had revenue of $182.14 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $181.88 million. EastGroup Properties had a net margin of 35.58% and a return on equity of 7.28%. EastGroup Propertiess revenue was up 11.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the firm posted $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 research analysts expect that EastGroup Properties, Inc. will post 8.94 EPS for the current year.

In related news, EVP Richard Reid Dunbar sold 2,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, November 5th. The shares were 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 of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,610,250. This represents a 8.84% 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 1.00% of the companys stock.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of analysts recently issued reports on the stock. Evercore ISI decreased their target price on shares of EastGroup Properties from $180.00 to $179.00 and set an in-line rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, October 6th. Robert W. Baird raised their price objective on EastGroup Properties from $190.00 to $196.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Tuesday, November 4th. BNP Paribas raised 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. Wells Fargo & Company increased their target price on EastGroup Properties from $187.00 to $196.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Monday, November 10th. Finally, Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c+) rating on shares of EastGroup Properties in a research note on Monday. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eight have issued a Buy rating and seven have issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $190.80.

Read Our Latest Report on EGP

About EastGroup Properties

(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

Receive News & Ratings for EastGroup Properties Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for EastGroup Properties and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Embraer-Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica (NYSE:ERJ  Get Free Report) passed above its 200-day moving average during trading on Thursday . The stock has a 200-day moving average of $56.65 and traded as high as $65.05. Embraer-Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica shares last traded at $65.1750, with a volume of 646,716 shares trading hands.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of brokerages recently weighed in on ERJ. Zacks Research raised Embraer-Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, September 15th. Citigroup increased their target price on shares of Embraer-Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica from $59.00 to $70.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 15th. Wall Street Zen lowered Embraer-Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Saturday, August 9th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their price objective on Embraer-Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica from $79.00 to $80.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Friday, November 7th. Finally, Wolfe Research upgraded Embraer-Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica from a peer perform rating to an outperform rating and set a $64.00 price objective on the stock in a research report on Thursday, July 31st. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, six have given a Buy rating, two have assigned a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, Embraer-Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $63.86.

Get Embraer-Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica alerts:

Check Out Our Latest Report on Embraer-Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica

Embraer-Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica Stock Performance

The company has a quick ratio of 0.60, a current ratio of 1.33 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.58. The stock has a market capitalization of $11.97 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 31.79, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 6.09 and a beta of 1.82. The stocks 50-day simple moving average is $62.40 and its 200 day simple moving average is $56.65.

Embraer-Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica (NYSE:ERJ  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Tuesday, November 4th. The aerospace company reported $0.30 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.67 by ($0.37). Embraer-Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica had a net margin of 5.43% and a return on equity of 13.38%. Embraer-Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica has set its FY 2025 guidance at EPS. Analysts expect that Embraer-Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica will post 2.04 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Embraer-Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica declared that its board has approved a share repurchase program on Thursday, November 6th that allows the company to repurchase 0 outstanding shares. This repurchase authorization allows the aerospace company to buy shares of its stock through open market purchases. Shares repurchase programs are usually an indication that the companys board believes its shares are undervalued.

Institutional Trading of Embraer-Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the business. GQG Partners LLC acquired a new position in Embraer-Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica during the 1st quarter worth about $276,246,000. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised its stake in shares of Embraer-Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica by 654.5% in the first quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 3,500,799 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $161,737,000 after acquiring an additional 3,036,797 shares during the last quarter. Nuveen LLC acquired a new position in shares of Embraer-Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica during the first quarter worth approximately $84,931,000. Invesco Ltd. grew its stake in shares of Embraer-Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica by 116.8% during the first quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 2,678,821 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $123,762,000 after purchasing an additional 1,443,186 shares during the last quarter. Finally, AQR Capital Management LLC increased its holdings in shares of Embraer-Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica by 80.1% in the first quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC now owns 1,433,113 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $66,210,000 after purchasing an additional 637,585 shares in the last quarter. 34.65% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Embraer-Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Embraer SA designs, develops, manufactures, and sells aircraft and systems in North America, Latin America, the Asia Pacific, Brazil, Europe, and internationally. The company operates through Commercial Aviation; Defense & Security; Executive Aviation; Services & Support; and Other segments. The Commercial Aviation segment designs, develops, manufactures, and sells commercial jets, as well as leases aircraft.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Embraer-Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Embraer-Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
The Norwegian authorities intend to allocate $8.4 billion to support Ukraine in 2026, Bloomberg said on Friday, referring to the draft budget currently being discussed.

"We must be prepared for the fact that the support Norway is now providing must be long-lasting," Head of the Norwegian parliament's international affairs and defense committee Ine Eriksen Sreide said.

"There is no reason to imagine that it can be scaled down very soon," she added.

Sreide also expressed the opinion that the United States should also contribute to supporting Ukraine, and not only the countries of Northern Europe for the most part.

Bloomberg reminds that Norway is among the countries that provide the largest aid to Kyiv in terms of its share of the economy.

According to Bloomberg, in 2025 the Norwegian government allocated $8.4 billion for Ukraine's needs.

On November 13, it was reported that Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway and Sweden would allocate $500 million under the PURL program, which involves purchasing military aid from the United States for transfer to Ukraine.
Employees Retirement System of Texas acquired a new position in Dominion Energy Inc. (NYSE:D  Free Report) during the second quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The fund acquired 3,829 shares of the utilities providers stock, valued at approximately $216,000.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also added to or reduced their stakes in D. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its position in shares of Dominion Energy by 16.2% in the 2nd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 105,795,310 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $5,979,551,000 after purchasing an additional 14,715,895 shares during the period. Dodge & Cox raised its stake in Dominion Energy by 3.0% during the first quarter. Dodge & Cox now owns 23,308,378 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $1,306,901,000 after buying an additional 685,245 shares during the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC lifted its holdings in Dominion Energy by 3.0% in the second quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 19,725,397 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $1,112,697,000 after buying an additional 575,350 shares during the period. Wellington Management Group LLP boosted its position in Dominion Energy by 19.4% during the first quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 17,744,198 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $994,917,000 after acquiring an additional 2,882,252 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD grew its holdings in Dominion Energy by 12.4% during the 1st quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 14,091,155 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $790,092,000 after acquiring an additional 1,552,985 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 73.04% of the companys stock.

Get Dominion Energy alerts:

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of brokerages have recently issued reports on D. Royal Bank Of Canada reissued a sector perform rating and issued a $70.00 price objective on shares of Dominion Energy in a research note on Tuesday, October 28th. Barclays lifted their target price on Dominion Energy from $60.00 to $63.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Tuesday, October 7th. BMO Capital Markets cut their price target on Dominion Energy from $67.00 to $65.00 and set a market perform rating on the stock in a report on Monday, November 3rd. Evercore ISI assumed coverage on shares of Dominion Energy in a research note on Tuesday, October 7th. They issued an in-line rating and a $67.00 price objective for the company. Finally, BTIG Research initiated coverage on shares of Dominion Energy in a research report on Wednesday, October 22nd. They set a neutral rating on the stock. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, eight have issued a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $64.22.

Dominion Energy Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:D opened at $62.59 on Friday. Dominion Energy Inc. has a twelve month low of $48.07 and a twelve month high of $62.63. The stocks 50 day moving average is $60.77 and its 200-day moving average is $58.89. The company has a quick ratio of 0.49, a current ratio of 0.67 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.35. The firm has a market capitalization of $53.45 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 21.58, a PEG ratio of 2.13 and a beta of 0.63.

Dominion Energy (NYSE:D  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Friday, October 31st. The utilities provider reported $1.06 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.02 by $0.04. Dominion Energy had a net margin of 16.45% and a return on equity of 9.68%. The business had revenue of $4.53 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.71 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $0.98 EPS. Dominion Energys quarterly revenue was up 14.9% on a year-over-year basis. Dominion Energy has set its FY 2025 guidance at 3.330-3.480 EPS. Sell-side analysts forecast that Dominion Energy Inc. will post 3.39 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Dominion Energy Dividend Announcement

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Saturday, December 20th. Shareholders of record on Friday, December 5th will be paid a dividend of $0.6675 per share. The ex-dividend date is Friday, December 5th. This represents a $2.67 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 4.3%. Dominion Energys payout ratio is 90.82%.

Dominion Energy Profile

(Free Report)

Dominion Energy, Inc produces and distributes energy in the United States. It operates through three operating segments: Dominion Energy Virginia, Dominion Energy South Carolina, and Contracted Energy. The Dominion Energy Virginia segment generates, transmits, and distributes regulated electricity to approximately 2.8 million residential, commercial, industrial, and governmental customers in Virginia and North Carolina.

Featured Stories

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding D? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Dominion Energy Inc. (NYSE:D  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Dominion Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Dominion Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Employees Retirement System of Texas purchased a new position in Union Pacific Corporation (NYSE:UNP  Free Report) in the second quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The fund purchased 4,760 shares of the railroad operators stock, valued at approximately $1,095,000.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in UNP. Correct Capital Wealth Management increased its stake in Union Pacific by 5.9% in the 2nd quarter. Correct Capital Wealth Management now owns 10,308 shares of the railroad operators stock valued at $2,372,000 after buying an additional 570 shares during the period. Inceptionr LLC purchased a new position in shares of Union Pacific during the 2nd quarter valued at $1,530,000. J.W. Cole Advisors Inc. increased its stake in shares of Union Pacific by 33.0% in the second quarter. J.W. Cole Advisors Inc. now owns 47,741 shares of the railroad operators stock worth $10,984,000 after acquiring an additional 11,837 shares during the last quarter. SlateStone Wealth LLC increased its stake in shares of Union Pacific by 7.0% in the second quarter. SlateStone Wealth LLC now owns 14,192 shares of the railroad operators stock worth $3,265,000 after acquiring an additional 928 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Elo Mutual Pension Insurance Co raised its holdings in shares of Union Pacific by 2.8% during the second quarter. Elo Mutual Pension Insurance Co now owns 43,459 shares of the railroad operators stock worth $9,999,000 after acquiring an additional 1,165 shares in the last quarter. 80.38% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Get Union Pacific alerts:

Union Pacific Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE UNP opened at $230.97 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.75, a quick ratio of 0.60 and a current ratio of 0.75. The firm has a market cap of $137.00 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 19.62, a P/E/G ratio of 2.27 and a beta of 1.04. The businesss 50-day simple moving average is $225.74 and its 200-day simple moving average is $225.19. Union Pacific Corporation has a 52 week low of $204.66 and a 52 week high of $256.84.

Union Pacific Announces Dividend

Union Pacific ( NYSE:UNP Get Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, October 23rd. The railroad operator reported $3.08 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.99 by $0.09. The firm had revenue of $6.24 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $6.24 billion. Union Pacific had a return on equity of 42.23% and a net margin of 28.73%.The companys revenue for the quarter was up 2.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the company earned $2.75 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts expect that Union Pacific Corporation will post 11.99 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 30th. Stockholders of record on Friday, December 5th will be paid a $1.38 dividend. This represents a $5.52 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.4%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, December 5th. Union Pacifics payout ratio is presently 46.90%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

UNP has been the topic of a number of recent research reports. Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c+) rating on shares of Union Pacific in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. TD Cowen reduced their price target on Union Pacific from $258.00 to $257.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Friday, October 24th. UBS Group set a $253.00 price target on Union Pacific and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Friday, October 3rd. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their price objective on Union Pacific from $265.00 to $267.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Friday, October 24th. Finally, Loop Capital upgraded shares of Union Pacific from a sell rating to a hold rating and lifted their target price for the company from $214.00 to $227.00 in a research note on Tuesday, September 16th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, sixteen have issued a Buy rating and eleven have assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, Union Pacific has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $261.63.

Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on UNP

Union Pacific Profile

(Free Report)

Union Pacific Corporation, through its subsidiary, Union Pacific Railroad Company, operates in the railroad business in the United States. The company offers transportation services for grain and grain products, fertilizers, food and refrigerated products, and coal and renewables to grain processors, animal feeders, ethanol producers, renewable biofuel producers, and other agricultural users; and construction products, industrial chemicals, plastics, forest products, specialized products, metals and ores, petroleum, liquid petroleum gases, soda ash, and sand, as well as finished automobiles, automotive parts, and merchandise in intermodal containers.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding UNP? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Union Pacific Corporation (NYSE:UNP  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Union Pacific Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Union Pacific and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of Endeavour Silver Corporation (NYSE:EXK  Get Free Report) (TSE:EDR) gapped up prior to trading on Friday . The stock had previously closed at $8.62, but opened at $9.01. Endeavour Silver shares last traded at $9.7240, with a volume of 3,475,944 shares changing hands.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of equities analysts have recently issued reports on the company. Wall Street Zen raised Endeavour Silver from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Sunday, August 17th. Raymond James Financial reiterated an outperform rating on shares of Endeavour Silver in a research report on Friday, October 10th. Cibc Captl Mkts raised Endeavour Silver from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Monday, November 3rd. B. Riley boosted their target price on shares of Endeavour Silver from $7.00 to $11.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, November 13th. Finally, Zacks Research raised shares of Endeavour Silver from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Monday, October 20th. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, six have issued a Buy rating, one has issued a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Buy and a consensus price target of $12.67.

Get Endeavour Silver alerts:

View Our Latest Research Report on Endeavour Silver

Endeavour Silver Price Performance

The stock has a fifty day moving average of $7.95 and a two-hundred day moving average of $6.09. The company has a current ratio of 0.93, a quick ratio of 0.65 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23. The stock has a market capitalization of $2.93 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -36.70 and a beta of 1.27.

Endeavour Silver (NYSE:EXK  Get Free Report) (TSE:EDR) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Friday, November 7th. The mining company reported ($0.01) EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.05 by ($0.06). Endeavour Silver had a negative return on equity of 0.62% and a negative net margin of 28.49%.The business had revenue of $111.40 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $162.05 million. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that Endeavour Silver Corporation will post -0.07 earnings per share for the current year.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Endeavour Silver

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in EXK. Quarry LP raised its stake in shares of Endeavour Silver by 2.0% in the third quarter. Quarry LP now owns 74,258 shares of the mining companys stock worth $582,000 after acquiring an additional 1,490 shares during the last quarter. Aire Advisors LLC lifted its position in shares of Endeavour Silver by 5.2% during the third quarter. Aire Advisors LLC now owns 31,547 shares of the mining companys stock worth $247,000 after purchasing an additional 1,547 shares in the last quarter. Hohimer Wealth Management LLC grew its stake in shares of Endeavour Silver by 16.6% during the third quarter. Hohimer Wealth Management LLC now owns 14,415 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $113,000 after purchasing an additional 2,050 shares during the last quarter. Public Employees Retirement System of Ohio increased its holdings in shares of Endeavour Silver by 3.0% in the second quarter. Public Employees Retirement System of Ohio now owns 73,651 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $362,000 after purchasing an additional 2,129 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Vanguard Personalized Indexing Management LLC raised its position in Endeavour Silver by 5.5% in the 2nd quarter. Vanguard Personalized Indexing Management LLC now owns 41,256 shares of the mining companys stock worth $203,000 after purchasing an additional 2,161 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 20.06% of the companys stock.

About Endeavour Silver

(Get Free Report)

Endeavour Silver Corp., a silver mining company, engages in the acquisition, exploration, development, extraction, processing, refining, and reclamation of mineral properties in Chile and the United States. It explores for gold and silver deposits, and precious metals. The company was formerly known as Endeavour Gold Corp.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Endeavour Silver Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Endeavour Silver and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
American Realty Investors (NYSE:ARL  Get Free Report) and Maui Land & Pineapple (NYSE:MLP  Get Free Report) are both small-cap finance companies, but which is the superior investment? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their institutional ownership, dividends, analyst recommendations, earnings, risk, profitability and valuation.

Institutional and Insider Ownership

24.5% of Maui Land & Pineapple shares are owned by institutional investors. 90.8% of American Realty Investors shares are owned by company insiders. Comparatively, 65.9% of Maui Land & Pineapple shares are owned by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that large money managers, hedge funds and endowments believe a company will outperform the market over the long term.

Get American Realty Investors alerts:

Valuation & Earnings

This table compares American Realty Investors and Maui Land & Pineapples gross revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio American Realty Investors $49.04 million 5.01 -$14.70 million $0.36 42.22 Maui Land & Pineapple $18.34 million 17.11 -$7.39 million ($0.59) -26.95

Maui Land & Pineapple has lower revenue, but higher earnings than American Realty Investors. Maui Land & Pineapple is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than American Realty Investors, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Analyst Ratings

This is a breakdown of recent recommendations and price targets for American Realty Investors and Maui Land & Pineapple, as reported by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score American Realty Investors 0 1 0 0 2.00 Maui Land & Pineapple 1 0 0 0 1.00

Profitability

This table compares American Realty Investors and Maui Land & Pineapples net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets American Realty Investors -24.74% -1.86% -1.42% Maui Land & Pineapple -81.82% -45.87% -29.17%

Risk and Volatility

American Realty Investors has a beta of 0.8, meaning that its stock price is 20% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Maui Land & Pineapple has a beta of 0.75, meaning that its stock price is 25% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Summary

American Realty Investors beats Maui Land & Pineapple on 9 of the 12 factors compared between the two stocks.

About American Realty Investors

(Get Free Report)

American Realty Investors, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, acquires, develops, owns, and manages multifamily and commercial real estate properties in the Southern United States. It operates through two segments, Residential and Commercial. The company leases apartment units to residents; and office, industrial, and retail space to various for-profit businesses, as well as local, state, and federal agencies. It also offers tenant services, including parking and storage space rental; and sells land and properties. The company was incorporated in 1999 and is based in Dallas, Texas. American Realty Investors, Inc. is a subsidiary of Realty Advisors, Inc.

About Maui Land & Pineapple

(Get Free Report)

Maui Land & Pineapple Co., Inc. is a landholding and operating company, which engages in the development, sale, and management of real estate. It operates through the following segments: Real Estate, Leasing, and Resort Amenities. The Real Estate segment includes land planning and entitlement, development, and sales activities. The Leasing segment consists of residential, resort, commercial, agricultural and industrial land and property leases, licensing of registered trademarks and trade names, and stewardship and conservation efforts. The Resort Amenities segment manages a full-service spa, a beach club, and a private club membership program. The company was founded in 1909 and is headquartered in Maui, HI.

Receive News & Ratings for American Realty Investors Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for American Realty Investors and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of Fortune Minerals Limited (TSE:FT  Get Free Report) fell 8.3% during trading on Friday . The company traded as low as C$0.08 and last traded at C$0.08. 223,932 shares were traded during trading, a decline of 51% from the average session volume of 457,584 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$0.09.

Fortune Minerals Price Performance

The company has a quick ratio of 0.04, a current ratio of 0.39 and a debt-to-equity ratio of -111.61. The stock has a market capitalization of C$49.72 million, a P/E ratio of -4.25 and a beta of -1.42. The businesss 50 day simple moving average is C$0.09 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is C$0.08.

Get Fortune Minerals alerts:

Fortune Minerals (TSE:FT  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Friday, November 14th. The company reported C$0.00 EPS for the quarter. Fortune Minerals had a positive return on equity of 30.09% and a negative net margin of 13,690.93%.

About Fortune Minerals

Fortune Minerals Ltd is a Canadian mining and mine development company focused on developing the NICO Cobalt-Gold-Bismuth Copper Project in the Northwest Territories. The company plans to build a hydrometallurgical plant in southern Canada to process NICO metal concentrates. It also owns the satellite Sue-Dianne Copper-Silver-Gold Deposit located 25 km north of the NICO Project, which is a potential future source of incremental mill feed to extend the life.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Fortune Minerals Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Fortune Minerals and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Gerdau S.A. (NYSE:GGB  Get Free Report)s stock price passed above its 200-day moving average during trading on Thursday . The stock has a 200-day moving average of $3.10 and traded as high as $3.60. Gerdau shares last traded at $3.5850, with a volume of 5,495,146 shares changing hands.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of analysts have recently weighed in on GGB shares. Zacks Research raised shares of Gerdau from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, November 18th. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c) rating on shares of Gerdau in a report on Monday. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating and three have given a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $3.80.

Get Gerdau alerts:

Check Out Our Latest Report on Gerdau

Gerdau Stock Performance

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.30, a quick ratio of 1.50 and a current ratio of 2.89. The firm has a market cap of $7.16 billion, a P/E ratio of 12.36, a P/E/G ratio of 3.09 and a beta of 1.46. The companys 50 day moving average is $3.36 and its 200 day moving average is $3.10.

Gerdau (NYSE:GGB  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The basic materials company reported $0.10 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.11 by ($0.01). Gerdau had a return on equity of 6.51% and a net margin of 4.81%.The company had revenue of $3.38 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $17.81 billion. As a group, equities analysts predict that Gerdau S.A. will post 0.46 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Gerdau Increases Dividend

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, December 18th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, November 12th will be given a $0.0521 dividend. This is a boost from Gerdaus previous quarterly dividend of $0.02. This represents a $0.21 annualized dividend and a yield of 5.8%. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, November 12th. Gerdaus dividend payout ratio is 70.37%.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Capital International Investors boosted its position in Gerdau by 1.9% during the 3rd quarter. Capital International Investors now owns 31,046,243 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $96,243,000 after buying an additional 581,958 shares during the period. Bank of America Corp DE grew its stake in shares of Gerdau by 22.4% in the third quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 15,894,871 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $49,274,000 after purchasing an additional 2,910,482 shares during the last quarter. Encompass Capital Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in Gerdau in the first quarter valued at $30,134,000. Causeway Capital Management LLC raised its position in Gerdau by 169.2% during the 3rd quarter. Causeway Capital Management LLC now owns 7,189,270 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $22,287,000 after purchasing an additional 4,519,092 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Donald Smith & CO. Inc. bought a new position in Gerdau during the 2nd quarter worth $17,440,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 1.49% of the companys stock.

About Gerdau

(Get Free Report)

Gerdau SA, together with its subsidiaries, operates as a steel producer company. The company operates through Brazil Business, North America Business, South America Business, and Special Steel Business segments. It also provides semi-finished products, including billets, blooms, and slabs; common long rolled products, such as rebars, wire rods, merchant bars, light shapes, and profiles to the construction and manufacturing industries; drawn products comprising barbed and barbless fence wires, galvanized wires, fences, concrete reinforcing wire mesh, nails, and clamps for manufacturing, construction, and agricultural industries; and special steel products used in auto parts, light and heavy vehicles, and agricultural machinery, as well as in the oil and gas, wind energy, machinery and equipment, mining and rail, and other markets.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Gerdau Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Gerdau and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Global Retirement Partners LLC bought a new position in Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta International Equity ETF (NYSEARCA:GSIE  Free Report) in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The fund bought 24,164 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $958,000.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of the stock. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta International Equity ETF by 3.0% during the 2nd quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 3,307,425 shares of the companys stock valued at $131,172,000 after acquiring an additional 94,786 shares during the last quarter. Commonwealth Equity Services LLC lifted its position in Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta International Equity ETF by 0.9% during the second quarter. Commonwealth Equity Services LLC now owns 1,697,165 shares of the companys stock valued at $67,310,000 after purchasing an additional 14,710 shares during the period. Financial Management Professionals Inc. boosted its holdings in Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta International Equity ETF by 0.3% in the second quarter. Financial Management Professionals Inc. now owns 1,288,458 shares of the companys stock worth $51,100,000 after purchasing an additional 4,442 shares during the last quarter. Royal Bank of Canada grew its position in Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta International Equity ETF by 41.7% in the 1st quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 996,839 shares of the companys stock worth $35,536,000 after purchasing an additional 293,111 shares during the period. Finally, Brio Consultants LLC grew its position in Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta International Equity ETF by 3.3% in the 2nd quarter. Brio Consultants LLC now owns 959,806 shares of the companys stock worth $38,066,000 after purchasing an additional 30,894 shares during the period.

Get Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta International Equity ETF alerts:

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta International Equity ETF Price Performance

NYSEARCA GSIE opened at $41.71 on Friday. The stock has a market capitalization of $4.68 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 15.44 and a beta of 0.84. Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta International Equity ETF has a 1-year low of $31.73 and a 1-year high of $42.29. The businesss fifty day moving average price is $41.24 and its 200-day moving average price is $40.32.

About Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta International Equity ETF

The Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta International Equity ETF (GSIE) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in total market equity. The fund tracks an index of stocks in developed markets outside of the US comprising four sub-indices: value, momentum, quality and low volatility. The index uses multiple factors to pick stocks, and each sub-index receives equal weight.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta International Equity ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta International Equity ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Groupama Asset Managment increased its stake in MetLife, Inc. (NYSE:MET  Free Report) by 4.2% in the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 659,175 shares of the financial services providers stock after purchasing an additional 26,779 shares during the quarter. Groupama Asset Managments holdings in MetLife were worth $52,978,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Delta Investment Management LLC grew its position in MetLife by 0.9% during the first quarter. Delta Investment Management LLC now owns 14,265 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,145,000 after buying an additional 133 shares during the period. Ignite Planners LLC boosted its stake in shares of MetLife by 2.2% during the 2nd quarter. Ignite Planners LLC now owns 6,366 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $491,000 after acquiring an additional 136 shares in the last quarter. Glenview Trust co grew its holdings in shares of MetLife by 0.4% in the 1st quarter. Glenview Trust co now owns 38,333 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $3,078,000 after acquiring an additional 141 shares during the period. Whittier Trust Co. of Nevada Inc. increased its stake in MetLife by 1.0% in the 2nd quarter. Whittier Trust Co. of Nevada Inc. now owns 14,902 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,198,000 after purchasing an additional 148 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Forum Financial Management LP increased its stake in MetLife by 1.1% in the 2nd quarter. Forum Financial Management LP now owns 13,607 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,094,000 after purchasing an additional 151 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 94.99% of the companys stock.

Get MetLife alerts:

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of analysts have commented on MET shares. Jefferies Financial Group boosted their target price on MetLife from $100.00 to $103.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Monday, August 11th. Wolfe Research raised MetLife to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, September 16th. Morgan Stanley increased their price objective on shares of MetLife from $94.00 to $97.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 7th. Cowen restated a buy rating on shares of MetLife in a report on Friday, August 22nd. Finally, UBS Group cut their target price on shares of MetLife from $96.00 to $95.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, November 6th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, nine have issued a Buy rating and two have given a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $94.60.

MetLife Stock Up 0.8%

MET opened at $76.33 on Friday. The firm has a market cap of $50.29 billion, a P/E ratio of 12.94, a PEG ratio of 0.70 and a beta of 0.87. The businesss fifty day simple moving average is $79.06 and its 200 day simple moving average is $78.83. MetLife, Inc. has a 52 week low of $65.21 and a 52 week high of $89.05. The company has a quick ratio of 0.16, a current ratio of 0.16 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.57.

MetLife (NYSE:MET  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, November 5th. The financial services provider reported $2.37 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.30 by $0.07. The firm had revenue of $12.46 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $18.64 billion. MetLife had a net margin of 5.83% and a return on equity of 19.88%. The firms revenue for the quarter was down 5.9% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $1.95 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts anticipate that MetLife, Inc. will post 9.65 EPS for the current fiscal year.

MetLife Dividend Announcement

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 9th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, November 4th will be paid a $0.5675 dividend. This represents a $2.27 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.0%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, November 4th. MetLifes payout ratio is presently 42.75%.

MetLife 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.

Recommended Stories

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MET? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for MetLife, Inc. (NYSE:MET  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for MetLife Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for MetLife and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of Hannover Ruck SE (OTC:HVRRF  Get Free Report) fell 1.3% on Tuesday . The stock traded as low as $294.57 and last traded at $294.57. 1 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 99% from the average session volume of 108 shares. The stock had previously closed at $298.30.

Hannover Ruck Trading Down 1.3%

The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $296.82 and a 200-day simple moving average of $306.06.

Hannover Ruck Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Hannover Ruck SE, together with its subsidiaries, provides reinsurance products and services in Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Europe, the United States, Asia, Australia, Africa, and internationally. It operates through Property & Casualty Reinsurance; and Life & Health Reinsurance segments.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for Hannover Ruck Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Hannover Ruck and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Hitachi Ltd. (OTCMKTS:HTHIY  Get Free Report)s share price gapped up prior to trading on Friday . The stock had previously closed at $31.52, but opened at $33.77. Hitachi shares last traded at $31.80, with a volume of 81,158 shares.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several research analysts recently weighed in on the stock. Erste Group Bank upgraded shares of Hitachi to a hold rating in a report on Friday, October 3rd. Zacks Research raised shares of Hitachi from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, October 21st. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating, Based on data from MarketBeat, Hitachi presently has an average rating of Hold.

Get Hitachi alerts:

Get Our Latest Research Report on Hitachi

Hitachi Price Performance

The company has a quick ratio of 0.85, a current ratio of 1.12 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.13. The company has a market capitalization of $145.82 billion, a PE ratio of 11.95, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.51 and a beta of 0.85. The firms 50-day moving average is $30.32 and its 200-day moving average is $28.86.

Hitachi (OTCMKTS:HTHIY  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 30th. The conglomerate reported $0.42 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.21 by $0.21. The company had revenue of $16.65 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2,463.27 billion. Hitachi had a return on equity of 10.83% and a net margin of 6.45%. Equities analysts predict that Hitachi Ltd. will post 0.47 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

About Hitachi

(Get Free Report)

Hitachi, Ltd. provides digital system and services, green energy and mobility, and connective industry solutions in Japan and internationally. It operates through seven segments: Digital Systems & Services, Green Energy & Mobility, Connective Industries, Automotive System, Hitachi Construction Machinery, Hitachi Metals, and Others.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Hitachi Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Hitachi and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Photo: https://eurosolidarity.org/

MP of Ukraine, leader of the European Solidarity party Petro Poroshenko spoke in favor of the resignation of the current Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine and the formation of a new coalition in the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, commenting on the resignation of Head of the President's Office of Ukraine Andriy Yermak.

"Yermak should be followed by... pressure on law enforcement officers, the use of sanctions as a tool of raiding, information killers of anonymous Telegram channels and systemic fakes. The compromised government should also go. Instead, what builds the state should work: the Constitution," Poroshenko said on Facebook on Friday evening.

Commenting on the evening address of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in which he stated the importance of unity within the country, the leader of European Solidarity stated: "Unity is needed. Not decorative, but real. Unity around Ukraine and European values. And it is time for this word to become action."

"Responding to the call for unity, I want to emphasize that we need a new and high-quality pro-European coalition, which, in accordance with the Constitution, will form a new professional government. This is an important chance for the country in extremely difficult conditions," Poroshenko said.

As reported, on November 28, Zelenskyy signed decree No. 868/2025 on the dismissal of Yermak from the position of head of the President's Office, which he had held since February 11, 2020. Before that, NABU and SAPO, based on the ruling of the investigating judge of the Supreme Judicial Council, conducted searches at Yermak's home, but no one was informed of the suspicion.

Deputy Head of the Holos faction Yulia Sirko and Head of the Servant of the People faction David Arakhamia made statements in which they supported Yermak's resignation.
Hong Kong & China Gas Co. (OTCMKTS:HOKCY  Get Free Report) shares gapped down prior to trading on Friday . The stock had previously closed at $0.8813, but opened at $0.8207. Hong Kong & China Gas shares last traded at $0.8755, with a volume of 1,300 shares trading hands.

Hong Kong & China Gas Stock Down 0.6%

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.63, a quick ratio of 0.61 and a current ratio of 0.67. The company has a 50 day moving average price of $0.86 and a 200 day moving average price of $0.85.

Get Hong Kong & China Gas alerts:

Hong Kong & China Gas Cuts Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a dividend, which was paid on Monday, September 22nd. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, September 3rd were issued a $0.0123 dividend. This represents a dividend yield of 411.0%. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, September 2nd.

Institutional Trading of Hong Kong & China Gas

About Hong Kong & China Gas

A hedge fund recently raised its stake in Hong Kong & China Gas stock. Rhumbline Advisers increased its stake in shares of Hong Kong & China Gas Co. ( OTCMKTS:HOKCY Free Report ) by 26.9% in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 131,441 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 27,860 shares during the period. Rhumbline Advisers holdings in Hong Kong & China Gas were worth $107,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

(Get Free Report)

The Hong Kong and China Gas Company Limited, together with its subsidiaries, produces, distributes, and markets gas, water supply and energy services in Hong Kong and Mainland China. It is involved in the provision of smart energy, piped city-gas, upstream and midstream projects, water supply and wastewater treatment, urban waste resource utilization, and natural gas filling stations, as well as new energy exploration and utilization activities.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Hong Kong & China Gas Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Hong Kong & China Gas and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Ibstock plc (LON:IBST  Get Free Report)s stock price crossed below its 50-day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a 50-day moving average of GBX 133.11 and traded as low as GBX 126.40. Ibstock shares last traded at GBX 135.40, with a volume of 2,518,901 shares changing hands.

Analyst Ratings Changes

IBST has been the topic of a number of research analyst reports. Jefferies Financial Group dropped their price target on Ibstock from GBX 188 to GBX 143 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, October 20th. Royal Bank Of Canada dropped their target price on shares of Ibstock from GBX 210 to GBX 170 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, October 15th. Berenberg Bank cut their price target on shares of Ibstock from GBX 170 to GBX 150 and set a hold rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, October 15th. Finally, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft lowered their price objective on shares of Ibstock from GBX 210 to GBX 190 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Friday, October 10th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has assigned a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of GBX 163.25.

Get Ibstock alerts:

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on Ibstock

Ibstock Trading Up 1.5%

Ibstock Company Profile

The stock has a market cap of 535.19 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 45.20, a P/E/G ratio of 0.47 and a beta of 1.34. The business has a 50-day simple moving average of GBX 133 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of GBX 148.46. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 46.91, a quick ratio of 1.19 and a current ratio of 1.37.

(Get Free Report)

Ibstock plc manufactures and sells clay and concrete building products and solutions to customers in the residential construction sector in the United Kingdom. The company offers bricks and masonry, which includes facing and engineering bricks, brick slips, special shaped bricks, walling stone, architectural masonry, prefabricated components, eco-habitats, and padstones and lintels, as well as facade systems; roofing products comprising roof tiles and accessories, and chimneys; and flooring and lintels, such as beam and block flooring, insulated flooring, hollowcore, and screed rails.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Ibstock Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Ibstock and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Inceptionr LLC lessened its holdings in Aercap Holdings N.V. (NYSE:AER  Free Report) by 65.9% during the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 5,095 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 9,868 shares during the period. Inceptionr LLCs holdings in Aercap were worth $596,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other hedge funds have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. 59 North Capital Management LP raised its stake in shares of Aercap by 40.6% in the first quarter. 59 North Capital Management LP now owns 5,209,534 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $532,258,000 after purchasing an additional 1,504,620 shares during the last quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. grew its holdings in Aercap by 25.0% during the second quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 2,873,872 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $336,243,000 after buying an additional 575,320 shares in the last quarter. Ninety One UK Ltd raised its position in Aercap by 44.8% in the 2nd quarter. Ninety One UK Ltd now owns 2,794,925 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $327,006,000 after buying an additional 864,348 shares during the last quarter. Ameriprise Financial Inc. lifted its stake in Aercap by 1.9% during the 1st quarter. Ameriprise Financial Inc. now owns 1,950,255 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $200,278,000 after acquiring an additional 36,398 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD boosted its holdings in Aercap by 2.8% during the 1st quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 1,814,146 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $185,352,000 after acquiring an additional 49,537 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 96.42% of the companys stock.

Get Aercap alerts:

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

AER has been the subject of several analyst reports. Zacks Research upgraded shares of Aercap from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Thursday, October 16th. Morgan Stanley increased their price objective on shares of Aercap from $120.00 to $150.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Tuesday, November 11th. TD Cowen boosted their target price on Aercap from $135.00 to $150.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, October 30th. Susquehanna upped their target price on Aercap from $134.00 to $157.00 and gave the company a positive rating in a report on Tuesday, November 11th. Finally, Weiss Ratings reiterated a buy (b+) rating on shares of Aercap in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, seven have given a Buy rating, one has issued a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Aercap presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $144.17.

Aercap Price Performance

Shares of NYSE AER opened at $133.26 on Friday. The company has a current ratio of 0.44, a quick ratio of 0.44 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.57. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $126.79 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $119.47. Aercap Holdings N.V. has a 1-year low of $85.57 and a 1-year high of $138.34. The firm has a market cap of $24.89 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 6.31, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.50 and a beta of 1.40.

Aercap (NYSE:AER  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, October 29th. The financial services provider reported $4.97 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $3.16 by $1.81. Aercap had a return on equity of 15.31% and a net margin of 45.41%.The firm had revenue of $2.31 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $2.41 earnings per share. The businesss revenue was up 18.5% on a year-over-year basis. Aercap has set its FY 2025 guidance at 13.700-13.700 EPS. Analysts anticipate that Aercap Holdings N.V. will post 11.29 earnings per share for the current year.

Aercap Announces Dividend

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, December 4th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, November 12th will be issued a dividend of $0.27 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, November 12th. This represents a $1.08 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.8%. Aercaps payout ratio is presently 5.12%.

About Aercap

(Free Report)

AerCap Holdings N.V. engages in the lease, financing, sale, and management of commercial flight equipment in China, Hong Kong, Macau, the United States, Ireland, and internationally. The company offers aircraft asset management services, such as remarketing aircraft and engines; collecting rental and maintenance rent payments, monitoring aircraft maintenance, monitoring and enforcing contract compliance, and accepting delivery and redelivery of aircraft and engines; and conducting ongoing lessee financial performance reviews.

Read More

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding AER? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Aercap Holdings N.V. (NYSE:AER  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Aercap Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Aercap and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Industrial & Commercial Bank of China Ltd. (OTCMKTS:IDCBY  Get Free Report)s stock price gapped down before the market opened on Friday . The stock had previously closed at $16.64, but opened at $15.90. Industrial & Commercial Bank of China Ltd. shares last traded at $16.5450, with a volume of 1,466 shares trading hands.

Industrial & Commercial Bank of China Ltd. Stock Down 0.5%

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.80, a current ratio of 0.87 and a quick ratio of 0.87. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $15.53 and a 200-day simple moving average of $15.32. The firm has a market cap of $295.02 billion, a PE ratio of 6.04 and a beta of 0.21.

Get Industrial & Commercial Bank of China Ltd. alerts:

Industrial & Commercial Bank of China Ltd. (OTCMKTS:IDCBY  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The company reported $0.75 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.73 by $0.02. Industrial & Commercial Bank of China Ltd. had a return on equity of 8.96% and a net margin of 24.10%.The firm had revenue of $28.44 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $27.38 billion.

Industrial & Commercial Bank of China Ltd. Company Profile

Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Limited, together with its subsidiaries, provides banking products and services in the People's Republic of China and internationally. The company operates through Corporate Banking, Personal Banking, and Treasury Operations segments. The Corporate Banking segment offers financial products and services to corporations, government agencies, and financial institutions.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Industrial & Commercial Bank of China Ltd. Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Industrial & Commercial Bank of China Ltd. and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Intech Investment Management LLC lessened its holdings in shares of Ducommun Incorporated (NYSE:DCO  Free Report) by 32.2% during the second quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 6,901 shares of the aerospace companys stock after selling 3,282 shares during the period. Intech Investment Management LLCs holdings in Ducommun were worth $570,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of the business. Police & Firemen s Retirement System of New Jersey lifted its holdings in Ducommun by 15.3% in the second quarter. Police & Firemen s Retirement System of New Jersey now owns 3,306 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $273,000 after acquiring an additional 438 shares during the period. Geode Capital Management LLC increased its holdings in shares of Ducommun by 1.8% in the 2nd quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 325,079 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $26,865,000 after purchasing an additional 5,725 shares in the last quarter. ProShare Advisors LLC purchased a new position in shares of Ducommun in the 2nd quarter valued at about $234,000. CSM Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Ducommun in the second quarter valued at about $7,031,000. Finally, Mitsubishi UFJ Asset Management Co. Ltd. lifted its stake in shares of Ducommun by 42.5% in the second quarter. Mitsubishi UFJ Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 54,243 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $4,482,000 after purchasing an additional 16,188 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 92.15% of the companys stock.

Get Ducommun alerts:

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

DCO has been the topic of several recent analyst reports. Wall Street Zen lowered shares of Ducommun from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research report on Monday, November 10th. Royal Bank Of Canada upped their price target on Ducommun from $95.00 to $100.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Friday, August 8th. Weiss Ratings downgraded Ducommun from a hold (c-) rating to a sell (d+) rating in a research note on Tuesday. Finally, Zacks Research downgraded Ducommun from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a research report on Friday, November 7th. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and two have assigned a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $97.50.

Ducommun Trading Up 1.3%

Shares of DCO opened at $91.23 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.31, a current ratio of 3.24 and a quick ratio of 2.17. Ducommun Incorporated has a 1-year low of $51.76 and a 1-year high of $101.47. The stock has a market cap of $1.36 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 34.69 and a beta of 1.38. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $93.13 and a 200-day simple moving average of $87.00.

Ducommun (NYSE:DCO  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, November 6th. The aerospace company reported $0.99 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.95 by $0.04. The firm had revenue of $212.56 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $211.41 million. Ducommun had a return on equity of 7.61% and a net margin of 5.03%.Ducommuns revenue was up 5.6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $0.67 EPS. Equities analysts forecast that Ducommun Incorporated will post 3.21 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Insider Activity

In related news, VP Jerry L. Redondo sold 1,594 shares of the stock in a transaction on Monday, November 10th. The stock was sold at an average price of $93.83, for a total transaction of $149,565.02. Following the sale, the vice president owned 67,269 shares of the companys stock, valued at $6,311,850.27. This trade represents a 2.31% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. 8.90% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

About Ducommun

(Free Report)

Ducommun Incorporated provides engineering and manufacturing services for products and applications used primarily in the aerospace and defense, industrial, medical, and other industries in the United States. The company operates through two segments, Electronic Systems and Structural Systems. The Electronic Systems segment provides cable assemblies and interconnect systems; printed circuit board assemblies; electronic, electromechanical, and mechanical components and assemblies, as well as lightning diversion systems; and radar enclosures, aircraft avionics racks, shipboard communications and control enclosures, printed circuit board assemblies, cable assemblies, wire harnesses, interconnect systems, lightning diversion strips, surge suppressors, conformal shields, and other assemblies.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding DCO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Ducommun Incorporated (NYSE:DCO  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Ducommun Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Ducommun and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Rockefeller Capital Management L.P. lowered its holdings in Inv Vk Mun Tr (NYSE:VKQ  Free Report) by 16.3% during the second quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 51,265 shares of the investment management companys stock after selling 10,016 shares during the quarter. Rockefeller Capital Management L.P.s holdings in Inv Vk Mun Tr were worth $469,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the company. Riverbridge Partners LLC increased its position in shares of Inv Vk Mun Tr by 5.3% during the 2nd quarter. Riverbridge Partners LLC now owns 30,542 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $279,000 after purchasing an additional 1,539 shares during the last quarter. US Bancorp DE purchased a new position in Inv Vk Mun Tr during the first quarter worth about $26,000. Wealth Alliance Advisory Group LLC boosted its position in shares of Inv Vk Mun Tr by 3.9% during the 2nd quarter. Wealth Alliance Advisory Group LLC now owns 72,716 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $665,000 after purchasing an additional 2,750 shares during the period. Baird Financial Group Inc. raised its position in Inv Vk Mun Tr by 2.3% in the first quarter. Baird Financial Group Inc. now owns 170,571 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $1,646,000 after purchasing an additional 3,848 shares during the period. Finally, Trust Co. of Toledo NA OH acquired a new position in Inv Vk Mun Tr during the second quarter worth $38,000. 32.00% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Get Inv Vk Mun Tr alerts:

Inv Vk Mun Tr Stock Performance

VKQ opened at $9.57 on Friday. Inv Vk Mun Tr has a 52 week low of $8.86 and a 52 week high of $10.33. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $9.65 and a 200-day simple moving average of $9.35.

Inv Vk Mun Tr Dividend Announcement

Insider Transactions at Inv Vk Mun Tr

The company also recently announced a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, November 28th. Shareholders of record on Monday, November 17th will be given a $0.0628 dividend. This represents a c) annualized dividend and a yield of 7.9%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, November 17th.

In other Inv Vk Mun Tr news, Portfolio Manager Timothy M. Oreilly purchased 5,200 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Wednesday, November 5th. The shares were bought at an average cost of $9.62 per share, for a total transaction of $50,024.00. Following the completion of the purchase, the portfolio manager directly owned 10,747 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $103,386.14. This trade represents a 93.74% increase in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. 5.37% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Inv Vk Mun Tr Company Profile

(Free Report)

Invesco Municipal Trust is a closed-ended fixed income mutual fund launched by Invesco Ltd. The fund is co-managed by Invesco Advisers, Inc, INVESCO Asset Management (Japan) Limited, INVESCO Asset Management Deutschland GmbH, INVESCO Asset Management Limited, Invesco Hong Kong Limited, INVESCO Senior Secured Management, Inc, and Invesco Canada Ltd.

Featured Articles

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding VKQ? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Inv Vk Mun Tr (NYSE:VKQ  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Inv Vk Mun Tr Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Inv Vk Mun Tr and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Invesco S&P 500 High Dividend Low Volatility ETF (NYSEARCA:SPHD  Get Free Report) shares saw unusually-high trading volume on Wednesday . Approximately 2,247,985 shares traded hands during trading, an increase of 225% from the previous sessions volume of 690,949 shares.The stock last traded at $48.4980 and had previously closed at $48.19.

Invesco S&P 500 High Dividend Low Volatility ETF Price Performance

The firm has a market cap of $3.09 billion, a PE ratio of 15.77 and a beta of 0.72. The companys 50 day moving average price is $48.36 and its 200 day moving average price is $48.27.

Get Invesco S&P 500 High Dividend Low Volatility ETF alerts:

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Invesco S&P 500 High Dividend Low Volatility ETF

Several institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of SPHD. Code Waechter LLC raised its stake in shares of Invesco S&P 500 High Dividend Low Volatility ETF by 1.1% in the third quarter. Code Waechter LLC now owns 18,361 shares of the companys stock valued at $893,000 after acquiring an additional 206 shares in the last quarter. Washington Trust Bank increased its holdings in Invesco S&P 500 High Dividend Low Volatility ETF by 0.5% during the 2nd quarter. Washington Trust Bank now owns 39,746 shares of the companys stock worth $1,890,000 after purchasing an additional 210 shares during the period. Prairie Wealth Advisors Inc. raised its position in Invesco S&P 500 High Dividend Low Volatility ETF by 2.8% in the 3rd quarter. Prairie Wealth Advisors Inc. now owns 7,829 shares of the companys stock valued at $387,000 after purchasing an additional 215 shares in the last quarter. McLean Asset Management Corp grew its position in shares of Invesco S&P 500 High Dividend Low Volatility ETF by 1.1% during the second quarter. McLean Asset Management Corp now owns 19,653 shares of the companys stock worth $956,000 after buying an additional 219 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Parallel Advisors LLC increased its stake in shares of Invesco S&P 500 High Dividend Low Volatility ETF by 0.9% during the second quarter. Parallel Advisors LLC now owns 24,187 shares of the companys stock worth $1,150,000 after buying an additional 221 shares during the period.

About Invesco S&P 500 High Dividend Low Volatility ETF

The Invesco S&P 500 High Dividend Low Volatility ETF (SPHD) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in large cap equity. The fund tracks a dividend-yield-weighted index comprising the least volatile, highest dividend-yielding S&P 500 stocks. SPHD was launched on Oct 18, 2012 and is managed by Invesco.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Invesco S&P 500 High Dividend Low Volatility ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Invesco S&P 500 High Dividend Low Volatility ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
IP Group Plc (LON:IPO  Get Free Report)s stock price crossed above its 200-day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a 200-day moving average of GBX 54.49 and traded as high as GBX 62.50. IP Group shares last traded at GBX 62.30, with a volume of 13,201,767 shares trading hands.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Separately, Berenberg Bank restated a buy rating and set a GBX 100 price target on shares of IP Group in a report on Monday, October 13th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Buy and an average price target of GBX 100.

Get IP Group alerts:

View Our Latest Stock Analysis on IP Group

IP Group Stock Performance

The businesss 50 day simple moving average is GBX 57.54 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is GBX 54.62. The firm has a market capitalization of 576.59 million, a PE ratio of -4.54 and a beta of 1.36. The company has a current ratio of 9.28, a quick ratio of 8.59 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 13.99.

IP Group (LON:IPO  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, September 17th. The company reported GBX (4.55) EPS for the quarter. IP Group had a negative return on equity of 19.85% and a net margin of 106.78%. Research analysts expect that IP Group Plc will post 19.6245031 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

IP Group Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

IP Group accelerates the impact of science for a better future. As the most active UK based, early-stage science investor, we develop and support some of the worlds most exciting businesses in deeptech, life sciences and cleantech (led by Kiko Ventures). Through Parkwalk, the UKs largest growth EIS fund manager, we also back world-changing innovation emerging in leading universities and research institutions.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for IP Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for IP Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
John Hancock Multifactor Mid Cap ETF (NYSEARCA:JHMM  Get Free Report) hit a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Friday . The stock traded as high as $65.82 and last traded at $65.79, with a volume of 30231 shares. The stock had previously closed at $65.37.

John Hancock Multifactor Mid Cap ETF Stock Up 0.5%

The stock has a market cap of $4.50 billion, a PE ratio of 19.18 and a beta of 1.04. The stocks fifty day moving average price is $64.38 and its 200 day moving average price is $62.67.

Get John Hancock Multifactor Mid Cap ETF alerts:

Institutional Trading of John Hancock Multifactor Mid Cap ETF

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the business. Raymond James Financial Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of John Hancock Multifactor Mid Cap ETF by 22.0% during the second quarter. Raymond James Financial Inc. now owns 2,768,787 shares of the companys stock valued at $169,256,000 after purchasing an additional 499,311 shares in the last quarter. Granite Bay Wealth Management LLC increased its holdings in John Hancock Multifactor Mid Cap ETF by 382.0% in the 3rd quarter. Granite Bay Wealth Management LLC now owns 623,209 shares of the companys stock worth $40,315,000 after buying an additional 493,916 shares in the last quarter. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans raised its position in John Hancock Multifactor Mid Cap ETF by 1,466.6% in the 3rd quarter. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans now owns 487,287 shares of the companys stock worth $31,523,000 after buying an additional 456,183 shares during the last quarter. Focus Partners Wealth raised its position in John Hancock Multifactor Mid Cap ETF by 40.1% in the 3rd quarter. Focus Partners Wealth now owns 970,605 shares of the companys stock worth $62,438,000 after buying an additional 277,765 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Jones Financial Companies Lllp lifted its stake in John Hancock Multifactor Mid Cap ETF by 24.7% during the 3rd quarter. Jones Financial Companies Lllp now owns 1,387,326 shares of the companys stock valued at $89,455,000 after acquiring an additional 274,723 shares during the period.

About John Hancock Multifactor Mid Cap ETF

The John Hancock Multifactor Mid Cap ETF (JHMM) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the John Hancock Dimensional Mid Cap index. The fund tracks an index of US firms ranked 200-950 by size, weighted by multiple factors relative to their sector peers. JHMM was launched on Sep 28, 2015 and is managed by John Hancock.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for John Hancock Multifactor Mid Cap ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for John Hancock Multifactor Mid Cap ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted its position in shares of Macerich Company (The) (NYSE:MAC  Free Report) by 11.6% during the 2nd quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The firm owned 6,652,710 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after acquiring an additional 694,103 shares during the period. JPMorgan Chase & Co.s holdings in Macerich were worth $107,641,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in MAC. PGGM Investments boosted its holdings in shares of Macerich by 15.9% during the 2nd quarter. PGGM Investments now owns 4,022,858 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $65,090,000 after buying an additional 552,194 shares in the last quarter. Intech Investment Management LLC lifted its position in Macerich by 39.2% during the 1st quarter. Intech Investment Management LLC now owns 167,341 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $2,873,000 after acquiring an additional 47,089 shares during the period. Strs Ohio bought a new stake in Macerich during the first quarter worth about $797,000. Invst LLC purchased a new stake in Macerich in the first quarter worth about $720,000. Finally, VIRGINIA RETIREMENT SYSTEMS ET Al bought a new position in shares of Macerich during the second quarter valued at approximately $8,678,000. Institutional investors own 87.38% of the companys stock.

Get Macerich alerts:

Macerich Stock Up 1.4%

MAC stock opened at $17.25 on Friday. The stock has a market capitalization of $4.42 billion, a P/E ratio of -9.86, a P/E/G ratio of 2.96 and a beta of 2.25. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.00, a current ratio of 0.76 and a quick ratio of 0.76. Macerich Company has a 1-year low of $12.48 and a 1-year high of $22.27. The business has a fifty day moving average price of $17.32 and a 200-day moving average price of $16.97.

Macerich Announces Dividend

Macerich ( NYSE:MAC Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, November 5th. The real estate investment trust reported $0.35 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.36 by ($0.01). Macerich had a negative net margin of 41.33% and a negative return on equity of 15.15%. The business had revenue of $253.26 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $246.77 million. During the same period last year, the business earned $0.38 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was up 15.0% on a year-over-year basis. Equities analysts forecast that Macerich Company will post 1.55 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 29th. Stockholders of record on Monday, December 15th will be issued a dividend of $0.17 per share. This represents a $0.68 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.9%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, December 15th. Macerichs payout ratio is presently -42.77%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of brokerages have recently commented on MAC. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their price target on Macerich from $18.00 to $19.00 and gave the stock an underweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, August 27th. Scotiabank boosted their target price on Macerich from $18.00 to $19.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a report on Thursday, November 13th. Wall Street Zen downgraded Macerich from a hold rating to a sell rating in a report on Saturday, August 2nd. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a sell (d+) rating on shares of Macerich in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Evercore ISI increased their price objective on shares of Macerich from $18.00 to $20.00 and gave the company an in-line rating in a research report on Monday, September 15th. Five analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, five have given a Hold rating and three have issued a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, Macerich has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $19.95.

Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on MAC

Macerich Company Profile

(Free Report)

Macerich is a fully integrated, self-managed and self-administered real estate investment trust (REIT). As a leading owner, operator and developer of high-quality retail real estate in densely populated and attractive U.S. markets, Macerichs portfolio is concentrated in California, the Pacific Northwest, Phoenix/Scottsdale, and the Metro New York to Washington, DC corridor.

Read More

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MAC? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Macerich Company (The) (NYSE:MAC  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Macerich Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Macerich and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Ukrainian economist and president of Kyiv School of Economics Timofiy Mylovanov suggested that current Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko could head the President's Office; according to sources of Interfax-Ukraine, in this case, the First Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Digital Transformation Mykhailo Fedorov could become the prime minister.

"There are rumors that Yulia Svyrydenko will head the President's Office. I fully support such a decision," he said on Facebook on Friday evening.

"In my opinion, it would be an ideal solution and a way out of the crisis. It would also strengthen the government and the executive branch of Ukraine and would be able to give impetus and development forward in the most difficult times of Ukraine's existence. (Yulia Svyrydenko is a top prime minister and, in fact, I don't know any better)," he said.

MP from the European Solidarity faction Oleksiy Honcharenko expressed the opposite point of view. "Yulia Svyrydenko remains the prime minister. "She will not be removed," he said in the Telegram channel. According to him, the candidacy of First Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Digital Transformation Mykhailo Fedorov is being considered for the position of Head of the President's Office. "But there is a question here," he said.

According to sources of the DeepState OSINT project, among the candidates for the position of Head of the President's Office is a military man, Deputy Head of the President's Office Pavlo Palisa, appointed to this position in November 2024. "According to our information, today the president is considering the candidacy of Pavlo Palisa as Head of the Office. Quite an interesting and logical appointment, if it is implemented," the DeepState said in the Telegram channel.

It is noted that Palisa "has shown himself quite productively in his work as Deputy Head of the President's Office, having experience in training and good contacts with Americans, which is very necessary in today's realities. In particular, there is already experience gained, being a participant in all the negotiation processes of the heads of state."

"A military man in wartime is a logical and necessary necessity in the OP, because the war continues and the position and voice of the military must be heard both in the international arena and within the country," DeepState said.

According to MP from the Holos faction Yaroslav Zhelezniak, among the candidates are also the head of the Main Intelligence Agency of the Ministry of Defense Kyrylo Budanov and the Minister of Defense Denys Shmyhal. "Kyrylo Budanov. Pros  reputation, positive rating. Cons  he is effective in his position. And the Intelligence Agency is a state within a state. Denys Shmyhal. Pros  he is absolutely neutral and the president trusts him. "The cons are that we will have to look for a new defense minister, but perhaps Mykhailo Fedorov will agree to this position," Zhelezniak said in the Telegram channel, reflecting on the merits of the candidates. However, as Zhelezniak notes, "at the moment, none of the insider information voiced is true. Because there is no solution. I think it will be only on weekends at best."
Kansas City Life Insurance Co. (OTCMKTS:KCLI  Get Free Report) shares passed below its 200-day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a 200-day moving average of $31.59 and traded as low as $30.76. Kansas City Life Insurance shares last traded at $30.76, with a volume of 1,272 shares changing hands.

Kansas City Life Insurance Stock Down 0.1%

The company has a market capitalization of $297.85 million, a P/E ratio of -7.95 and a beta of 0.51. The businesss 50-day moving average is $31.65 and its two-hundred day moving average is $31.57.

Get Kansas City Life Insurance alerts:

Kansas City Life Insurance (OTCMKTS:KCLI  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Friday, October 31st. The financial services provider reported $0.33 EPS for the quarter. Kansas City Life Insurance had a negative net margin of 7.77% and a negative return on equity of 0.31%. The firm had revenue of $123.78 million during the quarter.

About Kansas City Life Insurance

Kansas City Life Insurance Company provides insurance products and services in states and the District of Columbia. It operates through three segments: Individual Insurance, Group Insurance, and Old American. The Individual Insurance segment consists of individual insurance products for Kansas City life, Grange life, and the assumed reinsurance transactions.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Kansas City Life Insurance Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Kansas City Life Insurance and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Silvant Capital Management LLC increased its stake in shares of Las Vegas Sands Corp. (NYSE:LVS  Free Report) by 0.8% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 374,973 shares of the casino operators stock after buying an additional 2,910 shares during the quarter. Las Vegas Sands comprises approximately 0.6% of Silvant Capital Management LLCs holdings, making the stock its 23rd largest position. Silvant Capital Management LLC owned 0.05% of Las Vegas Sands worth $16,315,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Norges Bank bought a new position in shares of Las Vegas Sands during the second quarter worth about $134,179,000. State Board of Administration of Florida Retirement System boosted its stake in Las Vegas Sands by 1.1% during the 2nd quarter. State Board of Administration of Florida Retirement System now owns 359,628 shares of the casino operators stock valued at $15,647,000 after purchasing an additional 3,970 shares during the period. Quadrant Capital Group LLC grew its position in Las Vegas Sands by 1,030.6% in the 2nd quarter. Quadrant Capital Group LLC now owns 15,444 shares of the casino operators stock worth $672,000 after purchasing an additional 14,078 shares during the last quarter. OPTIMAS CAPITAL Ltd bought a new position in Las Vegas Sands in the 2nd quarter worth about $11,426,000. Finally, Elo Mutual Pension Insurance Co increased its stake in shares of Las Vegas Sands by 22.2% in the second quarter. Elo Mutual Pension Insurance Co now owns 37,841 shares of the casino operators stock valued at $1,646,000 after purchasing an additional 6,864 shares during the period. 39.16% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

Get Las Vegas Sands alerts:

Las Vegas Sands Trading Up 0.9%

Shares of LVS stock opened at $68.24 on Friday. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $57.69 and a 200 day simple moving average of $51.58. The stock has a market capitalization of $46.14 billion, a P/E ratio of 30.88, a P/E/G ratio of 1.62 and a beta of 1.03. Las Vegas Sands Corp. has a fifty-two week low of $30.18 and a fifty-two week high of $68.42. The company has a quick ratio of 1.21, a current ratio of 0.89 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 7.42.

Las Vegas Sands Announces Dividend

Las Vegas Sands ( NYSE:LVS Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, October 22nd. The casino operator reported $0.78 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.62 by $0.16. The company had revenue of $3.33 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $3.04 billion. Las Vegas Sands had a net margin of 12.69% and a return on equity of 73.14%. Las Vegas Sandss revenue was up 24.2% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $0.44 EPS. On average, sell-side analysts expect that Las Vegas Sands Corp. will post 2.6 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, November 12th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, November 4th were given a $0.25 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, November 4th. This represents a $1.00 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.5%. Las Vegas Sandss payout ratio is 45.25%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of equities analysts recently issued reports on LVS shares. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their price objective on Las Vegas Sands from $60.00 to $70.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Thursday, October 23rd. UBS Group increased their price target on Las Vegas Sands from $55.00 to $65.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, August 28th. Susquehanna lifted their price objective on shares of Las Vegas Sands from $62.00 to $63.00 and gave the company a positive rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 22nd. Mizuho upped their price objective on shares of Las Vegas Sands from $56.00 to $63.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, October 23rd. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company initiated coverage on shares of Las Vegas Sands in a research note on Tuesday, November 18th. They set an equal weight rating and a $66.00 target price on the stock. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, ten have issued a Buy rating and six have assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $64.60.

Get Our Latest Analysis on Las Vegas Sands

Insider Activity at Las Vegas Sands

In related news, CEO Robert G. Goldstein sold 700,000 shares of Las Vegas Sands stock in a transaction on Wednesday, October 29th. The stock was sold at an average price of $58.88, for a total value of $41,216,000.00. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, EVP D. Zachary Hudson sold 100,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Friday, November 7th. The stock was sold at an average price of $64.99, for a total value of $6,499,000.00. Following the sale, the executive vice president directly owned 13,735 shares in the company, valued at $892,637.65. This trade represents a 87.92% 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 sold 2,100,000 shares of company stock worth $126,218,200. 1.20% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Las Vegas Sands Profile

(Free Report)

Las Vegas Sands Corp., together with its subsidiaries, develops, owns, and operates integrated resorts in Macao and Singapore. It owns and operates The Venetian Macao Resort Hotel, the Londoner Macao, The Parisian Macao, The Plaza Macao and Four Seasons Hotel Macao, Cotai Strip, and the Sands Macao in Macao, the Peoples Republic of China; and Marina Bay Sands in Singapore.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding LVS? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Las Vegas Sands Corp. (NYSE:LVS  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Las Vegas Sands Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Las Vegas Sands and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Laurel Wealth Advisors LLC lifted its position in iShares MSCI Australia ETF (NYSEARCA:EWA  Free Report) by 2,531.9% during the second quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The institutional investor owned 72,324 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after purchasing an additional 69,576 shares during the period. Laurel Wealth Advisors LLCs holdings in iShares MSCI Australia ETF were worth $1,904,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of EWA. Jones Financial Companies Lllp bought a new stake in iShares MSCI Australia ETF during the 1st quarter worth approximately $42,000. Simplex Trading LLC purchased a new position in shares of iShares MSCI Australia ETF during the 2nd quarter valued at $71,000. Private Trust Co. NA grew its position in shares of iShares MSCI Australia ETF by 5,842.9% during the 2nd quarter. Private Trust Co. NA now owns 2,912 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $77,000 after purchasing an additional 2,863 shares in the last quarter. Comerica Bank increased its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI Australia ETF by 21.7% in the first quarter. Comerica Bank now owns 3,627 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $85,000 after purchasing an additional 646 shares during the period. Finally, Stephens Inc. AR purchased a new stake in shares of iShares MSCI Australia ETF in the second quarter worth $200,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 59.69% of the companys stock.

Get iShares MSCI Australia ETF alerts:

iShares MSCI Australia ETF Stock Performance

NYSEARCA:EWA opened at $25.82 on Friday. iShares MSCI Australia ETF has a 52-week low of $20.50 and a 52-week high of $27.57. The stock has a fifty day moving average of $26.61 and a 200 day moving average of $26.46. The firm has a market capitalization of $1.40 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 19.89 and a beta of 1.04.

iShares MSCI Australia ETF Company Profile

iShares MSCI Australia ETF (the Fund), formerly iShares MSCI Australia Index Fund, is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks to provide investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance, of publicly traded securities in the Australian market, as represented by the MSCI Australia Index (the Index).

Featured Articles

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding EWA? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares MSCI Australia ETF (NYSEARCA:EWA  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for iShares MSCI Australia ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares MSCI Australia ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Legal & General Group Plc reduced its stake in First Horizon Corporation (NYSE:FHN  Free Report) by 11.3% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 966,410 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 123,005 shares during the period. Legal & General Group Plcs holdings in First Horizon were worth $20,488,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in FHN. Brandywine Global Investment Management LLC increased its position in First Horizon by 137.0% in the 2nd quarter. Brandywine Global Investment Management LLC now owns 371,840 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $7,883,000 after buying an additional 214,923 shares in the last quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted its holdings in First Horizon by 45.0% in the second quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 6,738,428 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $142,855,000 after acquiring an additional 2,091,865 shares in the last quarter. Dynamic Technology Lab Private Ltd acquired a new stake in First Horizon in the second quarter valued at approximately $408,000. Catalyst Funds Management Pty Ltd bought a new stake in shares of First Horizon during the second quarter valued at approximately $242,000. Finally, HHM Wealth Advisors LLC raised its position in shares of First Horizon by 231.0% during the second quarter. HHM Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 24,943 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $529,000 after purchasing an additional 17,408 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 80.28% of the companys stock.

Get First Horizon alerts:

First Horizon Price Performance

First Horizon stock opened at $22.26 on Friday. First Horizon Corporation has a 52 week low of $15.19 and a 52 week high of $23.70. The companys 50 day moving average price is $21.77 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $21.49. The stock has a market cap of $10.96 billion, a P/E ratio of 13.49, a P/E/G ratio of 0.81 and a beta of 0.70. The company has a quick ratio of 0.95, a current ratio of 0.96 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.15.

First Horizon ( NYSE:FHN Get Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, October 15th. The financial services provider reported $0.51 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.45 by $0.06. The company had revenue of $893.00 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $848.08 million. First Horizon had a return on equity of 11.03% and a net margin of 18.08%.First Horizons quarterly revenue was up 7.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $0.42 earnings per share. On average, equities analysts predict that First Horizon Corporation will post 1.67 earnings per share for the current year.

First Horizon declared that its board has authorized a share buyback plan on Monday, October 27th that authorizes the company to buyback $1.20 billion in shares. This buyback authorization authorizes the financial services provider to repurchase up to 11.3% of its shares through open market purchases. Shares buyback plans are often a sign that the companys leadership believes its shares are undervalued.

First Horizon Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, January 2nd. Stockholders of record on Friday, December 12th will be given a dividend of $0.15 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, December 12th. This represents a $0.60 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.7%. First Horizons dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 36.36%.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In related news, EVP David T. Popwell sold 155,149 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, November 4th. The shares were sold at an average price of $21.31, for a total transaction of $3,306,225.19. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president owned 307,432 shares in the company, valued at approximately $6,551,375.92. This trade represents a 33.54% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Also, CAO Jeff L. Fleming sold 7,619 shares of First Horizon stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, November 12th. The stock was sold at an average price of $21.74, for a total transaction of $165,637.06. Following the completion of the sale, the chief accounting officer directly owned 128,626 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,796,329.24. This represents a 5.59% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. Insiders own 1.04% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of equities analysts recently issued reports on FHN shares. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods cut their target price on First Horizon from $24.00 to $23.00 and set a market perform rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, October 16th. Royal Bank Of Canada raised their price objective on shares of First Horizon from $24.00 to $27.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, October 10th. Wells Fargo & Company decreased their target price on shares of First Horizon from $25.00 to $23.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, October 16th. Barclays upped their target price on shares of First Horizon from $26.00 to $28.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Tuesday, November 11th. Finally, DA Davidson reissued a neutral rating and issued a $24.00 price objective on shares of First Horizon in a research note on Thursday, October 16th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, nine have given a Buy rating and nine have issued a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $24.50.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on FHN

First Horizon Profile

(Free Report)

First Horizon Corporation operates as the bank holding company for First Horizon Bank that provides various financial services. The company operates through Regional Banking and Specialty Banking segments. It offers general banking services for consumers, businesses, financial institutions, and governments.

See Also

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding FHN? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for First Horizon Corporation (NYSE:FHN  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for First Horizon Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for First Horizon and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Legal & General Group Plc cut its position in NIO Inc. (NYSE:NIO  Free Report) by 0.5% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 6,279,118 shares of the companys stock after selling 31,939 shares during the quarter. Legal & General Group Plcs holdings in NIO were worth $21,568,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Redwood Wealth Management Group LLC lifted its stake in NIO by 4.9% in the second quarter. Redwood Wealth Management Group LLC now owns 69,206 shares of the companys stock valued at $237,000 after acquiring an additional 3,215 shares during the last quarter. Private Advisor Group LLC raised its holdings in shares of NIO by 4.6% in the 1st quarter. Private Advisor Group LLC now owns 79,500 shares of the companys stock valued at $303,000 after purchasing an additional 3,527 shares during the period. Main Management ETF Advisors LLC lifted its stake in NIO by 1.7% in the 2nd quarter. Main Management ETF Advisors LLC now owns 222,057 shares of the companys stock valued at $762,000 after purchasing an additional 3,612 shares during the last quarter. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. grew its holdings in NIO by 2.2% during the second quarter. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. now owns 220,694 shares of the companys stock worth $757,000 after purchasing an additional 4,846 shares during the period. Finally, Avantax Advisory Services Inc. grew its holdings in NIO by 16.3% during the first quarter. Avantax Advisory Services Inc. now owns 37,943 shares of the companys stock worth $145,000 after purchasing an additional 5,306 shares during the period. 48.55% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Get NIO alerts:

NIO Price Performance

Shares of NYSE NIO opened at $5.44 on Friday. The firm has a market cap of $11.36 billion, a P/E ratio of -3.75 and a beta of 1.46. The businesss 50 day moving average is $6.83 and its 200-day moving average is $5.36. The company has a current ratio of 0.94, a quick ratio of 0.71 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.36. NIO Inc. has a 1-year low of $3.02 and a 1-year high of $8.02.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

NIO ( NYSE:NIO Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, September 2nd. The company reported ($0.32) EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of ($0.30) by ($0.02). The firm had revenue of $2.65 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $20.07 billion. NIO had a negative net margin of 31.17% and a negative return on equity of 1,085.61%. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 9.0% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned ($2.21) earnings per share. NIO has set its Q3 2025 guidance at EPS. Equities research analysts predict that NIO Inc. will post -1.43 earnings per share for the current year.

NIO has been the topic of several research analyst reports. The Goldman Sachs Group restated a neutral rating and issued a $7.00 price objective on shares of NIO in a research note on Thursday, October 30th. Macquarie set a $5.30 target price on NIO in a report on Tuesday. Bank of America raised their price target on NIO from $5.00 to $7.10 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, September 3rd. Citigroup reduced their price objective on shares of NIO from $8.60 to $6.90 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday. Finally, Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of NIO from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Monday, September 8th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, eight have assigned a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, NIO presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $6.60.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on NIO

About NIO

(Free Report)

NIO Inc designs, manufactures, and sells electric vehicles in the People's Republic of China. The company is also involved in the manufacture of e-powertrain, battery packs, and components; and racing management, technology development, and sales and after-sales management activities. In addition, it offers power solutions for battery charging needs; and other value-added services.

Read More

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding NIO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for NIO Inc. (NYSE:NIO  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for NIO Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for NIO and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Legal & General Group Plc raised its position in shares of Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE:EAT  Free Report) by 9.5% during the second quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 134,405 shares of the restaurant operators stock after purchasing an additional 11,679 shares during the period. Legal & General Group Plcs holdings in Brinker International were worth $24,237,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Alyeska Investment Group L.P. bought a new position in shares of Brinker International during the 1st quarter valued at about $76,114,000. Westfield Capital Management Co. LP boosted its stake in Brinker International by 102.0% in the first quarter. Westfield Capital Management Co. LP now owns 995,713 shares of the restaurant operators stock worth $148,411,000 after buying an additional 502,897 shares in the last quarter. Nuveen LLC bought a new position in Brinker International during the first quarter valued at approximately $55,808,000. ANTIPODES PARTNERS Ltd purchased a new position in shares of Brinker International during the second quarter worth approximately $55,725,000. Finally, Samlyn Capital LLC bought a new stake in shares of Brinker International in the 1st quarter worth approximately $44,557,000.

Get Brinker International alerts:

Brinker International Stock Up 1.5%

NYSE EAT opened at $151.89 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.53, a current ratio of 0.35 and a quick ratio of 0.25. The stock has a market capitalization of $6.75 billion, a PE ratio of 15.76, a PEG ratio of 0.77 and a beta of 1.38. Brinker International, Inc. has a 1 year low of $100.30 and a 1 year high of $192.21. The businesss 50-day moving average is $125.15 and its 200 day moving average is $149.55.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Brinker International ( NYSE:EAT Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, October 29th. The restaurant operator reported $1.93 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.76 by $0.17. Brinker International had a return on equity of 164.66% and a net margin of 7.94%.The business had revenue of $1.35 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.32 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $0.95 EPS. Brinker Internationals quarterly revenue was up 18.5% compared to the same quarter last year. Brinker International has set its FY 2026 guidance at 9.900-10.50 EPS. Sell-side analysts forecast that Brinker International, Inc. will post 8.3 earnings per share for the current year.

Several equities analysts recently commented on the stock. Wells Fargo & Company reduced their target price on shares of Brinker International from $175.00 to $160.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, October 30th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. reduced their price objective on Brinker International from $175.00 to $155.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, October 30th. Citigroup upgraded Brinker International from a neutral rating to a buy rating and lifted their price objective for the stock from $144.00 to $176.00 in a report on Tuesday. UBS Group dropped their target price on Brinker International from $165.00 to $144.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a report on Monday, October 27th. Finally, Wall Street Zen cut Brinker International from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Saturday, November 1st. Ten research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and nine have assigned a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $167.44.

Read Our Latest Analysis on EAT

Insider Activity at Brinker International

In related news, COO Douglas N. Comings sold 16,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred 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 owned 12,951 shares in the company, valued at $2,026,572.48. This represents a 55.27% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. 1.43% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

About Brinker International

(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.

Recommended Stories

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding EAT? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE:EAT  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Brinker International Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Brinker International and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Legal & General Group Plc lifted its position in shares of Reddit Inc. (NYSE:RDDT  Free Report) by 18.9% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 164,860 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 26,254 shares during the period. Legal & General Group Plcs holdings in Reddit were worth $24,823,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

A number of other large investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its position in Reddit by 6.3% during the 2nd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 10,837,215 shares of the companys stock worth $1,631,759,000 after buying an additional 638,663 shares during the period. Alliancebernstein L.P. raised its stake in shares of Reddit by 103.0% during the first quarter. Alliancebernstein L.P. now owns 5,659,990 shares of the companys stock valued at $593,733,000 after acquiring an additional 2,871,232 shares during the last quarter. T. Rowe Price Investment Management Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of Reddit by 10.6% during the first quarter. T. Rowe Price Investment Management Inc. now owns 4,073,939 shares of the companys stock worth $427,357,000 after purchasing an additional 389,761 shares during the period. JPMorgan Chase & Co. grew its stake in shares of Reddit by 7.5% in the second quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 2,051,175 shares of the companys stock worth $308,846,000 after purchasing an additional 143,680 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Geode Capital Management LLC increased its holdings in Reddit by 72.1% in the second quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 1,989,004 shares of the companys stock valued at $299,044,000 after purchasing an additional 833,245 shares during the period.

Get Reddit alerts:

Reddit Stock Performance

Reddit stock opened at $207.46 on Friday. The stock has a market capitalization of $39.31 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 119.23, a PEG ratio of 2.29 and a beta of 2.14. Reddit Inc. has a 52-week low of $79.75 and a 52-week high of $282.95. The stocks 50 day moving average price is $207.17 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $181.81.

Insider Transactions at Reddit

Reddit ( NYSE:RDDT Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 30th. The company reported $0.80 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.50 by $0.30. The company had revenue of $584.91 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $546.65 million. Reddit had a net margin of 18.33% and a return on equity of 14.94%. Reddits revenue for the quarter was up 67.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $0.16 EPS. Reddit has set its Q4 2025 guidance at EPS. On average, equities research analysts forecast that Reddit Inc. will post 1.12 EPS for the current year.

In other news, insider Benjamin Seong Lee sold 6,427 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $192.68, for a total transaction of $1,238,354.36. Following the transaction, the insider owned 67,613 shares in the company, valued at approximately $13,027,672.84. This represents a 8.68% 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 link. Also, CAO Michelle Marie Reynolds sold 3,215 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $186.44, for a total transaction of $599,404.60. Following the transaction, the chief accounting officer directly owned 21,807 shares in the company, valued at $4,065,697.08. This trade represents a 12.85% decrease in their position. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. In the last quarter, insiders sold 406,370 shares of company stock valued at $85,827,004. 34.25% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several research analysts have commented on the company. Argus began coverage on Reddit in a report on Monday, August 18th. They set a buy rating and a $250.00 target price on the stock. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their price objective on Reddit from $190.00 to $227.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Friday, October 31st. Weiss Ratings reiterated a hold (c-) rating on shares of Reddit in a report on Tuesday. The Goldman Sachs Group restated a neutral rating and set a $236.00 price target on shares of Reddit in a report on Tuesday, October 14th. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada reaffirmed a sector perform rating on shares of Reddit in a research note on Wednesday, October 1st. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, fourteen have issued a Buy rating, nine have given a Hold rating and two have assigned a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $226.33.

Check Out Our Latest Report on RDDT

Reddit Profile

(Free Report)

Reddit, Inc operates a website that organizes digital communities. It organizes communities based on specific interests that enable users to engage in conversations by sharing experiences, submitting links, uploading images and videos, and replying to one another. The company was founded in 2005 and is headquartered in San Francisco, California.

Featured Articles

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding RDDT? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Reddit Inc. (NYSE:RDDT  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Reddit Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Reddit and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
MAI Capital Management increased its holdings in shares of ING Group, N.V. (NYSE:ING  Free Report) by 114.4% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 8,983 shares of the financial services providers stock after purchasing an additional 4,793 shares during the quarter. MAI Capital Managements holdings in ING Group were worth $196,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the business. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD acquired a new stake in shares of ING Group in the first quarter worth $36,062,000. Millennium Management LLC boosted its position in ING Group by 197.6% during the 1st quarter. Millennium Management LLC now owns 1,667,239 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $32,661,000 after purchasing an additional 1,106,926 shares during the period. Natixis Advisors LLC increased its holdings in ING Group by 25.7% in the 1st quarter. Natixis Advisors LLC now owns 4,250,850 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $83,274,000 after purchasing an additional 869,281 shares in the last quarter. National Bank of Canada FI raised its position in ING Group by 1,434.0% in the first quarter. National Bank of Canada FI now owns 405,101 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $7,932,000 after purchasing an additional 378,693 shares during the period. Finally, Curi RMB Capital LLC acquired a new position in shares of ING Group during the first quarter worth about $6,833,000. 4.49% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Get ING Group alerts:

Analyst Ratings Changes

ING has been the subject of a number of recent research reports. Cfra Research upgraded ING Group from a hold rating to a moderate buy rating in a research note on Thursday, September 25th. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a buy (b) rating on shares of ING Group in a research report on Wednesday, November 19th. Morgan Stanley raised shares of ING Group from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, September 2nd. Citigroup raised shares of ING Group to a strong-buy rating in a report on Friday, November 21st. Finally, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods downgraded shares of ING Group from a hold rating to a moderate sell rating in a research note on Tuesday, November 11th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating and five have given a Buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, ING Group presently has a consensus rating of Buy.

ING Group Stock Up 1.4%

ING stock opened at $25.93 on Friday. The company has a current ratio of 1.11, a quick ratio of 1.11 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.99. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $25.10 and a 200-day simple moving average of $23.60. The company has a market capitalization of $81.61 billion, a P/E ratio of 11.68, a PEG ratio of 1.84 and a beta of 1.05. ING Group, N.V. has a twelve month low of $15.09 and a twelve month high of $26.59.

ING Group (NYSE:ING  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 30th. The financial services provider reported $0.70 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.64 by $0.06. The firm had revenue of $6.88 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.35 billion. ING Group had a net margin of 26.94% and a return on equity of 11.57%. On average, equities research analysts predict that ING Group, N.V. will post 2.14 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

About ING Group

(Free Report)

ING Groep N.V. provides various banking products and services in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, rest of Europe, and internationally. It operates through five segments: Retail Netherlands, Retail Belgium, Retail Germany, Retail Other, and Wholesale Banking. The company accepts current and savings accounts.

Read More

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding ING? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for ING Group, N.V. (NYSE:ING  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for ING Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for ING Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Measured Wealth Private Client Group LLC grew its holdings in Allison Transmission Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:ALSN  Free Report) by 14.0% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 9,343 shares of the auto parts companys stock after acquiring an additional 1,144 shares during the period. Measured Wealth Private Client Group LLCs holdings in Allison Transmission were worth $887,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP increased its holdings in Allison Transmission by 0.5% in the 1st quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP now owns 1,867,799 shares of the auto parts companys stock valued at $178,686,000 after purchasing an additional 10,208 shares in the last quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC lifted its stake in shares of Allison Transmission by 4.3% during the first quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC now owns 1,610,913 shares of the auto parts companys stock worth $151,281,000 after purchasing an additional 65,826 shares in the last quarter. Invesco Ltd. boosted its position in shares of Allison Transmission by 6.8% in the first quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 1,262,619 shares of the auto parts companys stock worth $120,795,000 after buying an additional 80,653 shares during the period. Allianz Asset Management GmbH grew its stake in shares of Allison Transmission by 3.2% in the second quarter. Allianz Asset Management GmbH now owns 1,081,292 shares of the auto parts companys stock valued at $102,712,000 after buying an additional 33,073 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Caisse DE Depot ET Placement DU Quebec grew its stake in shares of Allison Transmission by 109.1% in the first quarter. Caisse DE Depot ET Placement DU Quebec now owns 929,434 shares of the auto parts companys stock valued at $88,919,000 after buying an additional 484,916 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 96.90% of the companys stock.

Get Allison Transmission alerts:

Allison Transmission Price Performance

ALSN opened at $89.51 on Friday. The company has a market capitalization of $7.45 billion, a P/E ratio of 10.97 and a beta of 1.02. The company has a 50-day moving average of $83.40 and a 200-day moving average of $90.09. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.37, a quick ratio of 2.64 and a current ratio of 3.36. Allison Transmission Holdings, Inc. has a 1-year low of $76.01 and a 1-year high of $121.81.

Allison Transmission Dividend Announcement

Allison Transmission ( NYSE:ALSN Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, October 29th. The auto parts company reported $1.63 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.95 by ($0.32). The company had revenue of $693.00 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $779.97 million. Allison Transmission had a return on equity of 41.37% and a net margin of 22.78%.The businesss revenue for the quarter was down 15.9% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the business posted $2.27 EPS. Allison Transmission has set its FY 2025 guidance at EPS. Equities analysts expect that Allison Transmission Holdings, Inc. will post 9.06 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 5th. Stockholders of record on Friday, November 21st will be issued a $0.27 dividend. This represents a $1.08 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.2%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, November 21st. Allison Transmissions payout ratio is 13.24%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several equities analysts recently commented on the company. Zacks Research raised Allison Transmission from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Friday, September 19th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. dropped their price objective on shares of Allison Transmission from $90.00 to $87.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, October 30th. Wells Fargo & Company initiated coverage on shares of Allison Transmission in a report on Thursday, November 13th. They set an equal weight rating and a $85.00 price target for the company. Weiss Ratings downgraded Allison Transmission from a buy (b-) rating to a hold (c+) rating in a research note on Friday, October 24th. Finally, Citigroup cut their price target on Allison Transmission from $95.00 to $90.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, October 31st. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, seven have assigned a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Reduce and an average price target of $92.00.

View Our Latest Research Report on ALSN

About Allison Transmission

(Free Report)

Allison Transmission Holdings, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, designs, manufactures, and sells fully automatic transmissions for medium- and heavy-duty commercial vehicles and medium- and heavy-tactical U.S. defense vehicles, and electrified propulsion systems worldwide. It provides commercial-duty on-highway, off-highway and defense fully automatic transmissions, and electric hybrid and fully electric systems.

Read More

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding ALSN? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Allison Transmission Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:ALSN  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Allison Transmission Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Allison Transmission and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Elevation Point Wealth Partners LLC increased its holdings in Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS  Free Report) by 12.8% in the second quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 6,994 shares of the financial services providers stock after purchasing an additional 792 shares during the quarter. Elevation Point Wealth Partners LLCs holdings in Morgan Stanley were worth $985,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Several other hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in MS. CBIZ Investment Advisory Services LLC grew its stake in shares of Morgan Stanley by 111.0% in the first 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 in the last quarter. Princeton Global Asset Management LLC lifted its holdings in Morgan Stanley by 645.8% in the second quarter. Princeton Global Asset Management LLC now owns 179 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $25,000 after purchasing an additional 155 shares during the period. Hopwood Financial Services Inc. grew its position in Morgan Stanley by 50.0% in the 1st quarter. Hopwood Financial Services Inc. now owns 264 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $31,000 after buying an additional 88 shares in the last quarter. Compass Financial Services Inc acquired a new position in Morgan Stanley during the 2nd quarter valued at about $32,000. Finally, Abound Wealth Management increased its stake in Morgan Stanley by 58.5% during the 2nd quarter. Abound Wealth Management now owns 252 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $35,000 after buying an additional 93 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 84.19% of the companys stock.

Get Morgan Stanley alerts:

Insider Transactions at Morgan Stanley

In other Morgan Stanley news, CEO Edward Pick sold 100,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, October 31st. The shares were sold at an average price of $164.34, for a total transaction of $16,434,000.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer directly owned 574,986 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $94,493,199.24. This represents a 14.82% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. Insiders own 0.19% of the companys stock.

Morgan Stanley Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:MS opened at $168.15 on Friday. The company has a market capitalization of $267.25 billion, a PE ratio of 17.25, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.70 and a beta of 1.33. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 3.30, a quick ratio of 0.78 and a current ratio of 0.78. The stock has a fifty day moving average of $161.13 and a 200-day moving average of $147.53. Morgan Stanley has a one year low of $94.33 and a one year high of $171.77.

Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, October 15th. The financial services provider reported $2.80 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.07 by $0.73. Morgan Stanley had a return on equity of 16.55% and a net margin of 13.85%.The business had revenue of $17.98 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $16.42 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $1.88 EPS. The companys quarterly revenue was up 18.5% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that Morgan Stanley will post 8.56 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Morgan Stanley Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, November 14th. Shareholders of record on Friday, October 31st were issued a dividend of $1.00 per share. This represents a $4.00 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.4%. The ex-dividend date was Friday, October 31st. Morgan Stanleys payout ratio is presently 41.03%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

MS has been the subject of several recent analyst reports. Wells Fargo & Company increased their price objective on shares of Morgan Stanley from $165.00 to $177.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Thursday, October 16th. BMO Capital Markets started coverage on Morgan Stanley in a research report on Friday, October 3rd. They issued an outperform rating and a $180.00 target price for the company. Royal Bank Of Canada lifted their price target on Morgan Stanley from $145.00 to $171.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 1st. Evercore ISI upped their price objective on Morgan Stanley from $165.00 to $175.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, October 16th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their target price on Morgan Stanley from $122.00 to $157.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Tuesday, October 21st. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eight have issued a Buy rating and seven have issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $173.38.

View Our Latest Report on MS

About Morgan Stanley

(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.

Featured Stories

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MS? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Morgan Stanley Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Morgan Stanley and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Interfax-Ukraine to host press conference 'Presentation of the Economic Security Index 2025'

On Wednesday, December 3, at 12.00, the press center of the Interfax-Ukraine news agency will host a press conference entitled "Presentation of the Economic Security Index 2025."

Participants: President of the International Institute of Freedom Yaroslav Romanchuk, Director of the International Institute of Freedom Mykhailo Kamchatny; Founder of the sociological company Active Group Andriy Yeremenko (8/5a Reitarska Street).

The event will be streamed on the Interfax-Ukraine YouTube channel.

Admission requires registration on the spot with press ID cards.
Shares of Nabors Industries Ltd. (NYSE:NBR  Get Free Report) have been given an average recommendation of Reduce by the eight brokerages that are currently covering the company, MarketBeat Ratings reports. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a sell recommendation, four have issued a hold recommendation and one has given a buy recommendation to the company. The average twelve-month target price among analysts that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $48.1429.

NBR has been the topic of a number of research analyst reports. Morgan Stanley set a $55.00 price objective on shares of Nabors Industries and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Friday, October 17th. Barclays reissued an underweight rating and issued a $45.00 price objective (up previously from $36.00) on shares of Nabors Industries in a research note on Tuesday, November 11th. Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c-) rating on shares of Nabors Industries in a report on Monday. Wall Street Zen upgraded Nabors Industries from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Sunday, November 16th. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada set a $66.00 price target on shares of Nabors Industries and gave the company a sector perform rating in a research report on Thursday, October 30th.

Get Nabors Industries alerts:

Get Our Latest Analysis on NBR

Insider Activity

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Nabors Industries

In other news, major shareholder Varde Partners Inc sold 312,378 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Thursday, September 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $41.04, for a total transaction of $12,819,993.12. Following the completion of the sale, the insider directly owned 1,406,052 shares of the companys stock, valued at $57,704,374.08. The trade was a 18.18% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this link . 5.41% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

A number of hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Nomura Holdings Inc. bought a new position in shares of Nabors Industries in the first quarter valued at approximately $2,676,000. MQS Management LLC purchased a new stake in Nabors Industries in the 2nd quarter valued at $262,000. Apollo Management Holdings L.P. lifted its stake in Nabors Industries by 26.2% during the 1st quarter. Apollo Management Holdings L.P. now owns 421,836 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $17,595,000 after acquiring an additional 87,552 shares in the last quarter. Vanguard Personalized Indexing Management LLC purchased a new position in Nabors Industries during the 2nd quarter worth $203,000. Finally, Monaco Asset Management SAM purchased a new position in Nabors Industries during the 2nd quarter worth $210,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 81.92% of the companys stock.

Nabors Industries Stock Performance

NYSE:NBR opened at $49.77 on Friday. The company has a quick ratio of 1.63, a current ratio of 2.09 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.50. Nabors Industries has a twelve month low of $23.27 and a twelve month high of $77.00. The company has a fifty day moving average of $45.18 and a 200-day moving average of $37.20. The firm has a market capitalization of $724.66 million, a P/E ratio of 5.16 and a beta of 1.54.

Nabors Industries (NYSE:NBR  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly 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). Nabors Industries had a negative return on equity of 30.85% and a net margin of 7.08%.The company had revenue of $825.51 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $824.61 million. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted ($6.86) earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 11.8% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, sell-side analysts anticipate that Nabors Industries will post -6.22 EPS for the current year.

Nabors Industries Company Profile

(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.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Nabors Industries Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Nabors Industries and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Navios Maritime Partners LP (NYSE:NMM  Get Free Report) reached a new 52-week high during trading on Friday . The company traded as high as $54.63 and last traded at $54.37, with a volume of 85292 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at $53.39.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Separately, Weiss Ratings reiterated a hold (c+) rating on shares of Navios Maritime Partners in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Hold rating, According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold.

Get Navios Maritime Partners alerts:

Get Our Latest Report on NMM

Navios Maritime Partners Stock Up 2.1%

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.61, a current ratio of 1.09 and a quick ratio of 1.09. The company has a market capitalization of $1.62 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 5.45 and a beta of 1.53. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $48.05 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $44.17.

Navios Maritime Partners (NYSE:NMM  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, November 18th. The shipping company reported $2.83 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.55 by $0.28. Navios Maritime Partners had a return on equity of 9.24% and a net margin of 23.31%.The firm had revenue of $346.92 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $334.64 million. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $3.15 EPS. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 1.8% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, sell-side analysts anticipate that Navios Maritime Partners LP will post 12.64 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Navios Maritime Partners Announces Dividend

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, November 14th. Investors of record on Monday, November 10th were issued a dividend of $0.05 per share. The ex-dividend date was Monday, November 10th. This represents a $0.20 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.4%. Navios Maritime Partnerss dividend payout ratio is presently 2.29%.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Navios Maritime Partners

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in NMM. Moors & Cabot Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Navios Maritime Partners by 9.5% during the 1st quarter. Moors & Cabot Inc. now owns 83,281 shares of the shipping companys stock worth $3,266,000 after buying an additional 7,250 shares during the last quarter. Virtu Financial LLC bought a new stake in Navios Maritime Partners during the first quarter worth about $345,000. Ieq Capital LLC boosted its position in Navios Maritime Partners by 41.4% during the first quarter. Ieq Capital LLC now owns 78,684 shares of the shipping companys stock valued at $3,086,000 after purchasing an additional 23,054 shares during the last quarter. State of Wyoming acquired a new position in Navios Maritime Partners during the first quarter valued at approximately $157,000. Finally, Counterpoint Mutual Funds LLC bought a new position in Navios Maritime Partners in the second quarter valued at approximately $394,000. 62.74% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Navios Maritime Partners Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Navios Maritime Partners L.P. owns and operates dry cargo vessels in Asia, Europe, North America, and Australia. The company offers seaborne transportation services for a range of liquid and dry cargo commodities, including crude oil, refined petroleum, chemicals, iron ore, coal, grain, fertilizer, and containers, as well as charters its vessels under short, medium, and longer-term charters.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Navios Maritime Partners Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Navios Maritime Partners and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Neuberger Berman High Yield Strategies Fund (NYSEAMERICAN:NHS  Get Free Report) shares crossed below its 200-day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a 200-day moving average of $7.47 and traded as low as $7.11. Neuberger Berman High Yield Strategies Fund shares last traded at $7.22, with a volume of 212,887 shares traded.

Neuberger Berman High Yield Strategies Fund Trading Up 0.8%

The firms 50-day simple moving average is $7.40 and its 200 day simple moving average is $7.46.

Get Neuberger Berman High Yield Strategies Fund alerts:

Neuberger Berman High Yield Strategies Fund Announces Dividend

The business also recently announced a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, November 28th. Stockholders of record on Monday, November 17th will be given a dividend of $0.0905 per share. This represents a c) annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 14.9%. The ex-dividend date is Monday, November 17th.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

About Neuberger Berman High Yield Strategies Fund

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the company. Harbour Investments Inc. raised its holdings in Neuberger Berman High Yield Strategies Fund by 12.5% in the first quarter. Harbour Investments Inc. now owns 78,920 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $603,000 after purchasing an additional 8,784 shares during the period. AlphaCore Capital LLC acquired a new position in Neuberger Berman High Yield Strategies Fund in the first quarter valued at about $199,000. Invesco Ltd. increased its holdings in shares of Neuberger Berman High Yield Strategies Fund by 2.3% in the first quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 250,268 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $1,912,000 after acquiring an additional 5,529 shares in the last quarter. Landscape Capital Management L.L.C. increased its holdings in shares of Neuberger Berman High Yield Strategies Fund by 356.6% in the first quarter. Landscape Capital Management L.L.C. now owns 47,100 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $360,000 after acquiring an additional 36,785 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Kingstone Capital Partners Texas LLC acquired a new position in shares of Neuberger Berman High Yield Strategies Fund in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $199,796,000.

(Get Free Report)

Neuberger Berman High Yield Strategies Fund Inc is a closed-ended fixed income mutual fund launched by Neuberger Berman LLC. The fund is managed by Neuberger Berman Investment Advisers LLC. It invests in fixed income markets across the globe. The fund typically invests in high yield debt securities of various sectors, such as auto parts and equipment, airlines, automotive, electronics, health services, packaging, telecom-integrated/services, gaming, and gas distribution.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Neuberger Berman High Yield Strategies Fund Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Neuberger Berman High Yield Strategies Fund and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
New Zealand Energy Corp. (CVE:NZ  Get Free Report)s share price traded down 6.8% during trading on Friday . The company traded as low as C$0.21 and last traded at C$0.21. 138,700 shares were traded during mid-day trading, an increase of 436% from the average session volume of 25,888 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$0.22.

New Zealand Energy Stock Performance

The firms 50-day simple moving average is C$0.30 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is C$0.27. The company has a current ratio of 3.36, a quick ratio of 0.45 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 41.83. The stock has a market capitalization of C$7.67 million, a PE ratio of -0.34 and a beta of 4.58.

About New Zealand Energy

(Get Free Report)

New Zealand Energy Corp., together with its subsidiaries, engages in the exploration and production of oil and natural gas in New Zealand. It holds interests in three petroleum mining licenses, one petroleum mining permit, and one petroleum exploration permit. The company has interests in TWN Petroleum Mining Licenses comprising Waihapa/Ngaere, and Tariki; Copper Moki petroleum mining permit; and Eltham Petroleum exploration permit.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for New Zealand Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for New Zealand Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Nordea Bank AB (OTCMKTS:NRDBY  Get Free Report)s stock price hit a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Wednesday . The stock traded as high as $17.76 and last traded at $17.7450, with a volume of 32595 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at $17.57.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

NRDBY has been the topic of a number of research analyst reports. Kepler Capital Markets raised Nordea Bank from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Thursday, November 6th. Morgan Stanley reiterated an overweight rating on shares of Nordea Bank in a research report on Monday. Citigroup reissued a buy rating on shares of Nordea Bank in a report on Thursday, October 9th. Barclays downgraded Nordea Bank from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a research report on Thursday, August 21st. Finally, Zacks Research raised shares of Nordea Bank from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 28th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, three have issued a Buy rating and one has given a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Buy.

Get Nordea Bank alerts:

Check Out Our Latest Report on Nordea Bank

Nordea Bank Trading Up 1.3%

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 6.32, a quick ratio of 1.26 and a current ratio of 1.23. The firm has a 50-day moving average of $16.85 and a 200-day moving average of $15.63. The firm has a market capitalization of $61.42 billion, a P/E ratio of 11.71, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.02 and a beta of 0.66.

Nordea Bank (OTCMKTS:NRDBY  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 16th. The company reported $0.42 earnings per share for the quarter. Nordea Bank had a return on equity of 15.38% and a net margin of 21.42%.The firm had revenue of $3.40 billion during the quarter. On average, equities research analysts anticipate that Nordea Bank AB will post 1.4 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Nordea Bank Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Nordea Bank Abp offers banking products and services in Sweden, Finland, Norway, Denmark, and internationally. It operates through Personal Banking, Business Banking, Large Corporates & Institutions, and Asset & Wealth Management segments. The Personal Banking segment provides various financial services to customers through mobile banking, over the phone, online meetings, and branch offices.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Nordea Bank Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Nordea Bank and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Nordic American Tankers (NYSE:NAT  Get Free Report)s stock had its hold rating reaffirmed by equities researchers at Jefferies Financial Group in a research note issued on Friday,Benzinga reports. They currently have a $3.50 target price on the shipping companys stock. Jefferies Financial Groups target price indicates a potential downside of 7.04% from the companys current price.

Other equities analysts have also issued reports about the stock. Wall Street Zen lowered shares of Nordic American Tankers from a hold rating to a sell rating in a report on Saturday, November 22nd. Evercore ISI increased their price target on Nordic American Tankers from $2.50 to $3.00 and gave the company an in-line rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 28th. Finally, Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c) rating on shares of Nordic American Tankers in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating, According to data from MarketBeat, Nordic American Tankers currently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $3.25.

Get Nordic American Tankers alerts:

Get Our Latest Research Report on Nordic American Tankers

Nordic American Tankers Price Performance

Nordic American Tankers stock opened at $3.77 on Friday. The businesss 50-day simple moving average is $3.50 and its 200 day simple moving average is $3.07. The company has a quick ratio of 2.04, a current ratio of 2.33 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.84. The stock has a market cap of $797.24 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 53.79 and a beta of -0.36. Nordic American Tankers has a 12-month low of $2.13 and a 12-month high of $3.93.

Nordic American Tankers (NYSE:NAT  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, August 28th. The shipping company reported ($0.02) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.03 by ($0.05). The business had revenue of $40.15 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $53.35 million. Nordic American Tankers had a net margin of 7.58% and a return on equity of 2.67%. As a group, research analysts anticipate that Nordic American Tankers will post 0.24 earnings per share for the current year.

Institutional Trading of Nordic American Tankers

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Cetera Investment Advisers lifted its position in shares of Nordic American Tankers by 5.1% in the first quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 292,146 shares of the shipping companys stock worth $719,000 after purchasing an additional 14,100 shares in the last quarter. XTX Topco Ltd increased its stake in Nordic American Tankers by 46.5% in the 1st quarter. XTX Topco Ltd now owns 78,086 shares of the shipping companys stock valued at $192,000 after buying an additional 24,774 shares during the last quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. lifted its position in Nordic American Tankers by 312.3% during the 1st quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 21,974 shares of the shipping companys stock worth $54,000 after buying an additional 16,644 shares in the last quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Nordic American Tankers by 2.6% during the 1st quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 502,148 shares of the shipping companys stock worth $1,235,000 after buying an additional 12,781 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Nuveen LLC bought a new position in shares of Nordic American Tankers in the 1st quarter valued at about $3,150,000. 44.29% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About Nordic American Tankers

(Get Free Report)

Nordic American Tankers Limited, a tanker company, acquires and charters double-hull tankers in Bermuda and internationally. It operates a fleet of 20 Suezmax crude oil tankers. The company was incorporated in 1995 and is headquartered in Hamilton, Bermuda.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Nordic American Tankers Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Nordic American Tankers and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Northwest & Ethical Investments L.P. bought a new position in Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS  Free Report) in the 2nd quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The institutional investor bought 8,100 shares of the financial services providers stock, valued at approximately $1,140,000.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. CBIZ Investment Advisory Services LLC lifted its stake in shares of Morgan Stanley by 111.0% in the first quarter. CBIZ Investment Advisory Services LLC now owns 211 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $25,000 after buying an additional 111 shares during the last quarter. Princeton Global Asset Management LLC grew its stake in Morgan Stanley by 645.8% in the 2nd quarter. Princeton Global Asset Management LLC now owns 179 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $25,000 after buying an additional 155 shares during the last quarter. Hopwood Financial Services Inc. lifted its position in Morgan Stanley by 50.0% during the 1st quarter. Hopwood Financial Services Inc. now owns 264 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $31,000 after acquiring an additional 88 shares during the last quarter. Compass Financial Services Inc acquired a new position in Morgan Stanley during the 2nd quarter worth $32,000. Finally, Abound Wealth Management boosted its holdings in Morgan Stanley by 58.5% during the second quarter. Abound Wealth Management now owns 252 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $35,000 after acquiring an additional 93 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 84.19% of the companys stock.

Get Morgan Stanley alerts:

Insider Activity at Morgan Stanley

In other news, CEO Edward Pick sold 100,000 shares of Morgan Stanley stock in a transaction dated Friday, October 31st. The shares were sold at an average price of $164.34, for a total transaction of $16,434,000.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer directly owned 574,986 shares in the company, valued at approximately $94,493,199.24. The trade was a 14.82% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Insiders own 0.19% of the companys stock.

Morgan Stanley Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:MS opened at $168.15 on Friday. The firm has a market capitalization of $267.25 billion, a PE ratio of 17.25, a PEG ratio of 1.70 and a beta of 1.33. The company has a current ratio of 0.78, a quick ratio of 0.78 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 3.30. Morgan Stanley has a 1-year low of $94.33 and a 1-year high of $171.77. The businesss 50 day moving average is $161.13 and its 200-day moving average is $147.53.

Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, October 15th. The financial services provider reported $2.80 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.07 by $0.73. Morgan Stanley had a return on equity of 16.55% and a net margin of 13.85%.The business had revenue of $17.98 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $16.42 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $1.88 earnings per share. Morgan Stanleys revenue was up 18.5% on a year-over-year basis. Sell-side analysts predict that Morgan Stanley will post 8.56 earnings per share for the current year.

Morgan Stanley Announces Dividend

The firm 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 2.4%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, October 31st. Morgan Stanleys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 41.03%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

MS has been the topic of a number of recent analyst reports. Jefferies Financial Group lifted their price objective on Morgan Stanley from $175.00 to $186.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, October 16th. BMO Capital Markets initiated coverage on Morgan Stanley in a report on Friday, October 3rd. They issued an outperform rating and a $180.00 target price on the stock. Zacks Research raised Morgan Stanley from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 21st. Royal Bank Of Canada increased their price objective on Morgan Stanley from $145.00 to $171.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 1st. Finally, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods raised their price objective on shares of Morgan Stanley from $176.00 to $184.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Thursday, October 16th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eight have assigned a Buy rating and seven have issued a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $173.38.

Read Our Latest Stock Report on MS

Morgan Stanley Profile

(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.

Read More

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MS? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Morgan Stanley Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Morgan Stanley and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Ondo InsurTech Plc (LON:ONDO  Get Free Report) shares were up 3.3% on Tuesday . The company traded as high as GBX 31.80 and last traded at GBX 31.50. Approximately 627,390 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 8% from the average daily volume of 681,987 shares. The stock had previously closed at GBX 30.50.

Ondo InsurTech Trading Down 3.5%

The company has a market capitalization of 42.48 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -5.67 and a beta of 0.85. The businesss 50 day moving average price is GBX 31.34 and its two-hundred day moving average price is GBX 28.

Ondo InsurTech Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Ondo is a world leading provider of claims prevention technology for home insurers. Ondos focus is on the global scale-up of LeakBot  claims prevention technology that prevents water damage claims in houses. Water damage is the single biggest cause of home insurance claims, accounting for $17bn of claims every year in the USA and UK combined.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Ondo InsurTech Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Ondo InsurTech and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Pets at Home Group (LON:PETS  Get Free Report) had its target price lifted by investment analysts at Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft from GBX 215 to GBX 230 in a report released on Friday,London Stock Exchange reports. The firm presently has a buy rating on the stock. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschafts price target suggests a potential upside of 3.79% from the companys current price.

Several other analysts have also issued reports on the stock. Canaccord Genuity Group decreased their price target on shares of Pets at Home Group from GBX 285 to GBX 245 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, September 22nd. Jefferies Financial Group lowered their target price on Pets at Home Group from GBX 330 to GBX 250 and set a buy rating for the company in a research note on Tuesday, September 23rd. Shore Capital reissued a no recommendation rating on shares of Pets at Home Group in a research note on Thursday, July 31st. Finally, Berenberg Bank decreased their price objective on Pets at Home Group from GBX 245 to GBX 220 and set a hold rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, September 30th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has given a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of GBX 236.25.

Get Pets at Home Group alerts:

Get Our Latest Report on PETS

Pets at Home Group Stock Performance

Shares of LON PETS traded up GBX 2.20 during midday trading on Friday, reaching GBX 221.60. 951,368 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 2,191,117. Pets at Home Group has a 52 week low of GBX 175.50 and a 52 week high of GBX 276.60. The company has a market cap of 992.09 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.79, a PEG ratio of 2.66 and a beta of 0.69. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of GBX 209.28 and a 200 day moving average price of GBX 232.04. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 43.13, a current ratio of 0.63 and a quick ratio of 0.57.

Pets at Home Group (LON:PETS  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, November 26th. The company reported GBX 5.70 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. Pets at Home Group had a return on equity of 8.05% and a net margin of 5.36%. Sell-side analysts anticipate that Pets at Home Group will post 22.67844 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Insider Activity at Pets at Home Group

In other Pets at Home Group news, insider Roger Burnley acquired 4,850 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, October 9th. The shares were bought at an average cost of GBX 204 per share, with a total value of 9,894. Also, insider Ian Burke acquired 24,793 shares of the stock in a transaction on Tuesday, September 30th. The shares were acquired at an average price of GBX 200 per share, for a total transaction of 49,586. 3.19% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Pets at Home Group Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

We are the UKs leading pet care business, providing pet owners with everything they need to be able to look after their pet  from food, toys and bedding, and grooming services, right the way through to first opinion veterinary care.

Our stores represent a unique environment and provide a practical, fun and unique experience for pet owners.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Pets at Home Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Pets at Home Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Quadrant Capital Group LLC trimmed its stake in Chunghwa Telecom Co., Ltd. (NYSE:CHT  Free Report) by 15.7% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 48,845 shares of the utilities providers stock after selling 9,099 shares during the period. Quadrant Capital Group LLCs holdings in Chunghwa Telecom were worth $2,277,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of the company. Ameritas Advisory Services LLC purchased a new position in Chunghwa Telecom in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $25,000. Westside Investment Management Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Chunghwa Telecom during the 2nd quarter worth $34,000. Hantz Financial Services Inc. grew its position in Chunghwa Telecom by 1,083.1% in the second quarter. Hantz Financial Services Inc. now owns 840 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $39,000 after acquiring an additional 769 shares in the last quarter. Advisors Asset Management Inc. bought a new position in Chunghwa Telecom in the first quarter valued at $92,000. Finally, Allworth Financial LP increased its stake in Chunghwa Telecom by 125.9% in the second quarter. Allworth Financial LP now owns 2,370 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $110,000 after acquiring an additional 1,321 shares during the last quarter. 2.11% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

Get Chunghwa Telecom alerts:

Chunghwa Telecom Trading Up 0.3%

Shares of CHT stock opened at $41.90 on Friday. The business has a 50-day moving average of $42.90 and a 200 day moving average of $43.99. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.06, a current ratio of 1.15 and a quick ratio of 1.05. Chunghwa Telecom Co., Ltd. has a 1-year low of $36.61 and a 1-year high of $47.03. The stock has a market capitalization of $32.50 billion, a PE ratio of 27.39 and a beta of 0.28.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Chunghwa Telecom ( NYSE:CHT Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, November 6th. The utilities provider reported $0.41 EPS for the quarter, hitting analysts consensus estimates of $0.41. Chunghwa Telecom had a return on equity of 9.72% and a net margin of 16.27%.The business had revenue of $1.87 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.93 billion. As a group, sell-side analysts anticipate that Chunghwa Telecom Co., Ltd. will post 1.44 earnings per share for the current year.

Separately, Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c) rating on shares of Chunghwa Telecom in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Hold rating, Based on data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Hold.

View Our Latest Stock Report on Chunghwa Telecom

Chunghwa Telecom Company Profile

(Free Report)

Chunghwa Telecom Co, Ltd., together with its subsidiaries, provides telecommunication services in Taiwan and internationally. It operates through Consumer Business, Enterprise Business, International Business, and Others segments. The company offers local, domestic long distance, and international long distance fixed-line telephone services; mobile services such as prepaid and postpaid plans; broadband plans; and internet and data services.

See Also

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CHT? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Chunghwa Telecom Co., Ltd. (NYSE:CHT  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Chunghwa Telecom Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Chunghwa Telecom and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
The government has adopted a resolution granting official permission to local authorities and municipal companies to maintain mobile communications during power outages, First Deputy Prime Minister - Minister of Digital Transformation Mykhailo Fedorov said.

"During large-scale power outages, mobile operators need to service nearly 35,000 base stations across the country simultaneously. Now, communities will have the right to work with operators to ensure stable communication," Fedorov wrote on Thursday in a Telegram post.

According to Fedorov, this mechanism allows communities to connect mobile networks to the free capacities of their municipal generators. Municipal company employees will also have the opportunity to service generators owned by operators.

Additionally, the resolution permits the quick installation of generators at municipal facilities with community approval.

Fedorov clarified that these network support services are official and do not require additional licenses.

The Communication Generator project has also reportedly been launched in Ukraine, allowing businesses and citizens to connect their generators to mobile operators' base stations for a fee.
Patient Capital Management LLC cut its holdings in shares of QXO, Inc. (NYSE:QXO  Free Report) by 10.2% during the 2nd quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The institutional investor owned 6,542,202 shares of the companys stock after selling 742,625 shares during the quarter. QXO comprises about 6.4% of Patient Capital Management LLCs holdings, making the stock its largest position. Patient Capital Management LLCs holdings in QXO were worth $140,919,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Quadrature Capital Ltd raised its stake in shares of QXO by 192.7% during the second quarter. Quadrature Capital Ltd now owns 296,201 shares of the companys stock valued at $6,382,000 after acquiring an additional 195,018 shares during the last quarter. Hsbc Holdings PLC acquired a new stake in shares of QXO in the second quarter valued at about $482,000. State Board of Administration of Florida Retirement System bought a new position in QXO during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $8,828,000. Russell Investments Group Ltd. acquired a new stake in QXO during the 2nd quarter worth about $30,000. Finally, Manchester Capital Management LLC bought a new position in shares of QXO during the 2nd quarter worth about $325,000. 58.68% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Get QXO alerts:

QXO Trading Up 3.0%

Shares of QXO stock opened at $18.23 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.38, a quick ratio of 2.15 and a current ratio of 3.00. The company has a market capitalization of $12.29 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -86.78, a PEG ratio of 2.58 and a beta of 2.26. QXO, Inc. has a 52-week low of $11.85 and a 52-week high of $24.69. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $18.40 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $19.52.

Analyst Ratings Changes

QXO ( NYSE:QXO Get Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, November 6th. The company reported $0.14 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.12 by $0.02. The firm had revenue of $2.73 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.78 billion. QXO had a positive return on equity of 2.15% and a negative net margin of 1.09%.The businesss revenue was up 20726.7% compared to the same quarter last year. Research analysts anticipate that QXO, Inc. will post -0.13 EPS for the current fiscal year.

A number of research analysts recently weighed in on the company. Truist Financial dropped their price target on QXO from $30.00 to $28.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, October 9th. Raymond James Financial initiated coverage on shares of QXO in a research report on Friday, September 5th. They issued an outperform rating and a $28.00 price target for the company. Stephens initiated coverage on shares of QXO in a research note on Wednesday, August 13th. They set an overweight rating and a $29.00 price target for the company. Morgan Stanley began coverage on shares of QXO in a report on Tuesday, September 2nd. They set an overweight rating and a $35.00 price objective on the stock. Finally, Vertical Research assumed coverage on shares of QXO in a report on Tuesday, October 21st. They set a buy rating and a $30.00 price objective for the company. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, thirteen have given a Buy rating, one has issued a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, QXO has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $32.85.

View Our Latest Stock Report on QXO

About QXO

(Free Report)

QXO, Inc operates as a business application, technology, and consulting company in North America. The company provides solutions for accounting and business management, financial reporting, enterprise resource planning, human capital management, warehouse management systems, customer relationship management, and business intelligence.

Featured Articles

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding QXO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for QXO, Inc. (NYSE:QXO  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for QXO Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for QXO and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Rhumbline Advisers lifted its position in WESCO International, Inc. (NYSE:WCC  Free Report) by 2.2% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The fund owned 122,030 shares of the technology companys stock after purchasing an additional 2,665 shares during the quarter. Rhumbline Advisers holdings in WESCO International were worth $22,600,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. Vaughan Nelson Investment Management L.P. bought a new position in WESCO International during the 2nd quarter valued at about $75,136,000. Ameriprise Financial Inc. grew its stake in WESCO International by 21.2% during the first quarter. Ameriprise Financial Inc. now owns 309,081 shares of the technology companys stock worth $48,001,000 after buying an additional 54,046 shares during the last quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp increased its holdings in shares of WESCO International by 4.9% during the second quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 795,629 shares of the technology companys stock worth $147,351,000 after buying an additional 36,843 shares in the last quarter. Strs Ohio bought a new position in shares of WESCO International in the first quarter valued at approximately $5,036,000. Finally, Davis Selected Advisers raised its position in WESCO International by 12.5% in the 2nd quarter. Davis Selected Advisers now owns 290,746 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $53,846,000 after purchasing an additional 32,243 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 93.75% of the companys stock.

Get WESCO International alerts:

WESCO International Trading Up 1.9%

NYSE WCC opened at $265.11 on Friday. WESCO International, Inc. has a 12 month low of $125.21 and a 12 month high of $268.27. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $233.17 and a 200 day simple moving average of $209.08. The company has a current ratio of 2.09, a quick ratio of 1.19 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.19. The company has a market capitalization of $12.90 billion, a PE ratio of 20.76, a P/E/G ratio of 1.77 and a beta of 1.79.

Insider Activity

WESCO International ( NYSE:WCC Get Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The technology company reported $3.92 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $3.75 by $0.17. The company had revenue of $6.20 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.91 billion. WESCO International had a return on equity of 12.96% and a net margin of 2.98%.The companys revenue for the quarter was up 12.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the company earned $3.58 EPS. WESCO International has set its FY 2025 guidance at 13.100-13.600 EPS. Research analysts forecast that WESCO International, Inc. will post 13.3 EPS for the current year.

In other WESCO International news, EVP Christine Ann Wolf sold 4,685 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, November 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $259.52, for a total value of $1,215,851.20. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president owned 30,195 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $7,836,206.40. This represents a 13.43% 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. Also, EVP Diane Lazzaris sold 4,039 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Wednesday, November 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $258.42, for a total value of $1,043,758.38. Following the sale, the executive vice president directly owned 45,401 shares in the company, valued at $11,732,526.42. The trade was a 8.17% decrease in their position. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Insiders sold a total of 30,816 shares of company stock worth $7,411,204 over the last three months. Company insiders own 3.30% of the companys stock.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of equities research analysts have commented on WCC shares. Raymond James Financial reissued a strong-buy rating and set a $240.00 price objective (up previously from $230.00) on shares of WESCO International in a report on Friday, August 1st. Oppenheimer increased their price target on shares of WESCO International from $225.00 to $255.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, September 5th. KeyCorp boosted their price objective on shares of WESCO International from $258.00 to $300.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Friday, October 31st. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their price objective on WESCO International from $225.00 to $245.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 15th. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada upgraded WESCO International from a sector perform rating to an outperform rating and boosted their target price for the stock from $262.00 to $302.00 in a research report on Wednesday, November 19th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, seven have given a Buy rating and two have issued a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, WESCO International currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $255.11.

View Our Latest Report on WESCO International

WESCO International Company Profile

(Free Report)

WESCO International, Inc provides business-to-business distribution, logistics services, and supply chain solutions in the United States, Canada, and internationally. It operates through three segments: Electrical & Electronic Solutions (EES), Communications & Security Solutions (CSS), and Utility and Broadband Solutions (UBS).

Featured Stories

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding WCC? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for WESCO International, Inc. (NYSE:WCC  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for WESCO International Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for WESCO International and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Scotia Capital Inc. grew its holdings in Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ  Free Report) by 3.7% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 1,355,244 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 47,938 shares during the period. Johnson & Johnson comprises 1.0% of Scotia Capital Inc.s holdings, making the stock its 28th biggest position. Scotia Capital Inc.s holdings in Johnson & Johnson were worth $206,994,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the business. Clark Asset Management LLC raised its position in shares of Johnson & Johnson by 51.6% in the second quarter. Clark Asset Management LLC now owns 8,884 shares of the companys stock worth $1,357,000 after acquiring an additional 3,025 shares during the period. Apexium Financial LP increased its stake in shares of Johnson & Johnson by 10.7% in the 1st quarter. Apexium Financial LP now owns 23,989 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,978,000 after purchasing an additional 2,310 shares in the last quarter. Avanza Fonder AB raised its holdings in Johnson & Johnson by 2.9% in the 2nd quarter. Avanza Fonder AB now owns 234,647 shares of the companys stock worth $35,842,000 after purchasing an additional 6,566 shares during the period. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd. boosted its position in Johnson & Johnson by 7.0% during the first quarter. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 73,350 shares of the companys stock worth $12,164,000 after purchasing an additional 4,816 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Klingman & Associates LLC grew its holdings in Johnson & Johnson by 13.4% in the first quarter. Klingman & Associates LLC now owns 16,984 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,817,000 after purchasing an additional 2,005 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 69.55% of the companys stock.

Get Johnson & Johnson alerts:

Johnson & Johnson Price Performance

Shares of NYSE JNJ opened at $207.75 on Friday. The firm has a 50-day simple moving average of $190.72 and a 200-day simple moving average of $172.99. The company has a quick ratio of 0.80, a current ratio of 1.07 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.50. The stock has a market capitalization of $500.53 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 20.05, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.19 and a beta of 0.38. Johnson & Johnson has a 52 week low of $140.68 and a 52 week high of $207.81.

Johnson & Johnson Dividend Announcement

Johnson & Johnson ( NYSE:JNJ Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, August 30th. The company reported $2.26 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. Johnson & Johnson had a net margin of 27.26% and a return on equity of 32.73%. The company had revenue of $24.02 billion during the quarter. On average, equities analysts predict that Johnson & Johnson will post 10.58 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 9th. Investors of record on Tuesday, November 25th will be given a dividend of $1.30 per share. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, November 25th. This represents a $5.20 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.5%. Johnson & Johnsons dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 50.19%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

JNJ has been the topic of a number of recent analyst reports. Loop Capital set a $190.00 target price on Johnson & Johnson in a research report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Morgan Stanley set a $190.00 price objective on shares of Johnson & Johnson in a report on Wednesday, October 15th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their target price on shares of Johnson & Johnson from $185.00 to $200.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Tuesday, September 16th. HSBC raised their price target on shares of Johnson & Johnson from $210.00 to $215.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, October 16th. Finally, Sanford C. Bernstein lifted their price objective on Johnson & Johnson from $172.00 to $193.00 and gave the stock a market perform rating in a report on Monday, October 6th. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, thirteen have given a Buy rating and nine have given a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $201.05.

View Our Latest Stock Analysis on JNJ

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Johnson & Johnson news, EVP Jennifer L. Taubert sold 56,471 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Thursday, September 4th. The stock was sold at an average price of $177.81, for a total value of $10,041,108.51. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president directly owned 178,013 shares in the company, valued at $31,652,491.53. This represents a 24.08% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Company insiders own 0.16% of the companys stock.

Johnson & Johnson Profile

(Free Report)

Johnson & Johnson is a holding company, which engages in the research, development, manufacture, and sale of products in the healthcare field. It operates through the Innovative Medicine and MedTech segments. The Innovative Medicine segment focuses on immunology, infectious diseases, neuroscience, oncology, cardiovascular and metabolism, and pulmonary hypertension.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding JNJ? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Johnson & Johnson Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Johnson & Johnson and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Swiss National Bank cut its position in shares of Simpson Manufacturing Company, Inc. (NYSE:SSD  Free Report) by 1.8% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 80,200 shares of the construction companys stock after selling 1,500 shares during the quarter. Swiss National Banks holdings in Simpson Manufacturing were worth $12,456,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the company. ProShare Advisors LLC grew its stake in Simpson Manufacturing by 3.5% in the 2nd quarter. ProShare Advisors LLC now owns 1,856 shares of the construction companys stock worth $288,000 after acquiring an additional 62 shares during the period. Inspire Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Simpson Manufacturing by 1.2% during the second quarter. Inspire Advisors LLC now owns 5,504 shares of the construction companys stock worth $855,000 after purchasing an additional 63 shares during the last quarter. CWM LLC grew its position in shares of Simpson Manufacturing by 39.1% in the first quarter. CWM LLC now owns 331 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $52,000 after purchasing an additional 93 shares during the period. First Hawaiian Bank increased its stake in Simpson Manufacturing by 7.2% in the first quarter. First Hawaiian Bank now owns 1,527 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $240,000 after purchasing an additional 102 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Voya Investment Management LLC lifted its position in Simpson Manufacturing by 2.2% during the first quarter. Voya Investment Management LLC now owns 7,182 shares of the construction companys stock worth $1,128,000 after buying an additional 152 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 93.68% of the companys stock.

Get Simpson Manufacturing alerts:

Simpson Manufacturing Stock Up 1.4%

Shares of NYSE:SSD opened at $168.52 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.17, a quick ratio of 1.80 and a current ratio of 3.35. Simpson Manufacturing Company, Inc. has a 1 year low of $137.35 and a 1 year high of $197.82. The stock has a market capitalization of $6.99 billion, a P/E ratio of 20.53 and a beta of 1.27. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $170.59 and a 200-day simple moving average of $170.95.

Simpson Manufacturing Dividend Announcement

Simpson Manufacturing ( NYSE:SSD Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Monday, October 27th. The construction company reported $2.58 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.37 by $0.21. Simpson Manufacturing had a net margin of 14.90% and a return on equity of 18.11%. The firm had revenue of $623.51 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $607.79 million. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $2.21 earnings per share. Simpson Manufacturings revenue for the quarter was up 6.2% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities analysts forecast that Simpson Manufacturing Company, Inc. will post 8.29 earnings per share for the current year.

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, January 22nd. Investors of record on Friday, January 2nd will be issued a dividend of $0.29 per share. The ex-dividend date 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%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several research firms have commented on SSD. Robert W. Baird lifted their price target on Simpson Manufacturing from $190.00 to $212.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Tuesday, October 28th. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c+) rating on shares of Simpson Manufacturing in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, DA Davidson reaffirmed a neutral rating and set a $190.00 price target on shares of Simpson Manufacturing in a research report on Tuesday, October 28th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating and two have issued a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $201.00.

Check Out Our Latest Research 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.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding SSD? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Simpson Manufacturing Company, Inc. (NYSE:SSD  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Simpson Manufacturing Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Simpson Manufacturing and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB publ cut its holdings in Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC) by 32.4% during the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 753,148 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 360,562 shares during the quarter. Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB publs holdings in Wells Fargo & Company were worth $60,331,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other large investors also recently bought and sold shares of WFC. Livforsakringsbolaget Skandia Omsesidigt grew its holdings in Wells Fargo & Company by 2,735,254.3% in the second quarter. Livforsakringsbolaget Skandia Omsesidigt now owns 949,769,723 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $76,095,550,000 after purchasing an additional 949,735,001 shares during the period. Norges Bank bought a new stake in shares of Wells Fargo & Company in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $3,990,551,000. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA boosted its position in shares of Wells Fargo & Company by 54.9% in the 2nd quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 16,635,681 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,332,851,000 after purchasing an additional 5,894,747 shares in the last quarter. Laurel Wealth Advisors LLC grew its stake in shares of Wells Fargo & Company by 8,010.7% in the 2nd quarter. Laurel Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 1,973,730 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $158,135,000 after buying an additional 1,949,395 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Strs Ohio bought a new position in Wells Fargo & Company during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $109,643,000. 75.90% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Get Wells Fargo & Company alerts:

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of equities research analysts have recently commented on the company. Morgan Stanley increased their target price on Wells Fargo & Company from $95.00 to $97.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 15th. Evercore ISI increased their price objective on shares of Wells Fargo & Company from $94.00 to $98.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Tuesday, September 30th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods raised their price objective on shares of Wells Fargo & Company from $85.00 to $92.00 and gave the company a market perform rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 15th. Weiss Ratings raised shares of Wells Fargo & Company from a hold (c) rating to a buy (b) rating in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Citigroup increased their price target on shares of Wells Fargo & Company from $85.00 to $90.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Tuesday, September 23rd. Eleven research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and eight have assigned a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $89.57.

Wells Fargo & Company Trading Up 0.6%

Shares of WFC stock opened at $85.61 on Friday. The company has a current ratio of 0.84, a quick ratio of 0.84 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.07. Wells Fargo & Company has a 12-month low of $58.42 and a 12-month high of $88.64. The stock has a market capitalization of $268.75 billion, a P/E ratio of 14.08, a P/E/G ratio of 1.18 and a beta of 1.22. The firms 50 day moving average is $84.24 and its 200 day moving average is $80.58.

Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, October 14th. The financial services provider reported $1.73 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.55 by $0.18. The firm had revenue of $21.44 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $21.11 billion. Wells Fargo & Company had a return on equity of 12.51% and a net margin of 17.18%.The companys revenue was up 5.3% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $1.42 EPS. Research analysts expect that Wells Fargo & Company will post 5.89 earnings per share for the current year.

Wells Fargo & Company Announces Dividend

The company 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 $0.45 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 7th. This represents a $1.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.1%. Wells Fargo & Companys dividend payout ratio is currently 29.61%.

Wells Fargo & Company Company Profile

(Free Report)

Wells Fargo & Co is a diversified and community-based financial services company, which engages in the provision of banking, insurance, investments, mortgage, and consumer and commercial finance products and services. It operates through the following segments: Consumer Banking and Lending, Commercial Banking, Corporate and Investment Banking, and Wealth and Investment Management.

Read More

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding WFC? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Wells Fargo & Company Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Wells Fargo & Company and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
State Board of Administration of Florida Retirement System boosted its stake in shares of Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS  Free Report) by 1.4% in the 2nd quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The fund owned 1,136,149 shares of the financial services providers stock after buying an additional 15,160 shares during the quarter. State Board of Administration of Florida Retirement Systems holdings in Morgan Stanley were worth $160,038,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in MS. Meadow Creek Wealth Advisors LLC raised its position in Morgan Stanley by 2.5% during the 2nd quarter. Meadow Creek Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 2,799 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $394,000 after purchasing an additional 69 shares during the last quarter. Gallagher Capital Advisors LLC raised its holdings in shares of Morgan Stanley by 0.7% during the second quarter. Gallagher Capital Advisors LLC now owns 9,969 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,420,000 after acquiring an additional 70 shares in the last quarter. McLean Asset Management Corp raised its holdings in shares of Morgan Stanley by 2.5% during the second quarter. McLean Asset Management Corp now owns 3,007 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $430,000 after acquiring an additional 73 shares in the last quarter. Bell Investment Advisors Inc lifted its stake in Morgan Stanley by 12.1% in the second quarter. Bell Investment Advisors Inc now owns 674 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $95,000 after acquiring an additional 73 shares during the period. Finally, Pinnacle Bancorp Inc. boosted its holdings in Morgan Stanley by 1.5% in the second quarter. Pinnacle Bancorp Inc. now owns 5,022 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $707,000 after acquiring an additional 75 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 84.19% of the companys stock.

Get Morgan Stanley alerts:

Insider Activity

In related news, CEO Edward Pick sold 100,000 shares of Morgan Stanley stock in a transaction dated Friday, October 31st. The stock was sold at an average price of $164.34, for a total value of $16,434,000.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer directly owned 574,986 shares in the company, valued at approximately $94,493,199.24. This trade represents a 14.82% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. 0.19% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several research analysts have commented on MS shares. Royal Bank Of Canada upped their price objective on shares of Morgan Stanley from $145.00 to $171.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a report on Wednesday, October 1st. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their price target on shares of Morgan Stanley from $122.00 to $157.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 21st. Zacks Research upgraded shares of Morgan Stanley from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Tuesday, October 21st. Citigroup upped their target price on Morgan Stanley from $155.00 to $170.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Thursday, October 16th. Finally, Wolfe Research raised Morgan Stanley from a peer perform rating to an outperform rating and set a $198.00 target price for the company in a research report on Monday. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eight have given a Buy rating and seven have issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $173.38.

Check Out Our Latest Report on MS

Morgan Stanley Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:MS opened at $168.15 on Friday. The business has a fifty day moving average price of $161.13 and a 200-day moving average price of $147.53. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 3.30, a current ratio of 0.78 and a quick ratio of 0.78. The company has a market capitalization of $267.25 billion, a PE ratio of 17.25, a PEG ratio of 1.70 and a beta of 1.33. Morgan Stanley has a 1-year low of $94.33 and a 1-year high of $171.77.

Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 15th. The financial services provider reported $2.80 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.07 by $0.73. The business had revenue of $17.98 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $16.42 billion. Morgan Stanley had a net margin of 13.85% and a return on equity of 16.55%. Morgan Stanleys revenue was up 18.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the business earned $1.88 EPS. As a group, equities analysts expect that Morgan Stanley will post 8.56 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Morgan Stanley Announces Dividend

The firm also recently declared 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 2.4%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, October 31st. Morgan Stanleys dividend payout ratio is presently 41.03%.

Morgan Stanley Company Profile

(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.

Featured Stories

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MS? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Morgan Stanley Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Morgan Stanley and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Swiss National Bank lowered its holdings in shares of KBR, Inc. (NYSE:KBR  Free Report) by 4.0% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 247,841 shares of the construction companys stock after selling 10,300 shares during the quarter. Swiss National Banks holdings in KBR were worth $11,881,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other large investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Bessemer Group Inc. grew its stake in KBR by 75.8% during the second quarter. Bessemer Group Inc. now owns 617 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $30,000 after acquiring an additional 266 shares in the last quarter. Byrne Asset Management LLC bought a new position in KBR during the second quarter valued at approximately $41,000. GAMMA Investing LLC grew its holdings in KBR by 37.5% during the 2nd quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 1,093 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $52,000 after buying an additional 298 shares in the last quarter. BNP PARIBAS ASSET MANAGEMENT Holding S.A. bought a new stake in KBR in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $76,000. Finally, UMB Bank n.a. raised its holdings in shares of KBR by 34.3% during the 2nd quarter. UMB Bank n.a. now owns 1,761 shares of the construction companys stock worth $84,000 after acquiring an additional 450 shares in the last quarter. 97.02% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Get KBR alerts:

Analysts Set New Price Targets

KBR has been the subject of a number of recent research reports. Wall Street Zen lowered shares of KBR from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, November 1st. Truist Financial set a $62.00 price objective on shares of KBR in a research report on Thursday, October 30th. Wells Fargo & Company initiated coverage on shares of KBR in a research note on Thursday, November 13th. They issued an equal weight rating and a $45.00 price objective for the company. Stifel Nicolaus boosted their target price on shares of KBR from $78.00 to $80.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Friday, August 1st. Finally, Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c-) rating on shares of KBR in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and seven have issued a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $59.00.

KBR Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE:KBR opened at $40.76 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.73, a quick ratio of 1.13 and a current ratio of 1.13. The firm has a market cap of $5.18 billion, a PE ratio of 14.77, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.85 and a beta of 0.68. The firms 50 day simple moving average is $43.93 and its 200-day simple moving average is $47.89. KBR, Inc. has a one year low of $39.61 and a one year high of $62.14.

KBR (NYSE:KBR  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 29th. The construction company reported $1.02 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.95 by $0.07. The company had revenue of $1.93 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.99 billion. KBR had a return on equity of 33.65% and a net margin of 4.52%.KBRs quarterly revenue was down .3% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the business posted $0.84 EPS. As a group, equities analysts predict that KBR, Inc. will post 3.26 EPS for the current year.

KBR Dividend Announcement

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 dividend of $0.165 per share. The ex-dividend date is Monday, December 15th. This represents a $0.66 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.6%. KBRs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 22.68%.

KBR Company Profile

(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.

Read More

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding KBR? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for KBR, Inc. (NYSE:KBR  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for KBR Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for KBR and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Tejara Capital Ltd bought a new position in Mohawk Industries, Inc. (NYSE:MHK  Free Report) during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The institutional investor bought 9,700 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,017,000.

A number of other hedge funds have also recently made changes to their positions in MHK. Federated Hermes Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Mohawk Industries by 326.3% in the first quarter. Federated Hermes Inc. now owns 243 shares of the companys stock worth $28,000 after purchasing an additional 186 shares during the period. MTM Investment Management LLC bought a new position in Mohawk Industries in the 2nd quarter worth about $28,000. Brooklyn Investment Group increased its stake in Mohawk Industries by 2,506.3% in the 1st quarter. Brooklyn Investment Group now owns 417 shares of the companys stock worth $48,000 after acquiring an additional 401 shares during the last quarter. Resona Asset Management Co. Ltd. boosted its position in shares of Mohawk Industries by 40.6% during the 1st quarter. Resona Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 481 shares of the companys stock valued at $55,000 after acquiring an additional 139 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Mufg Securities Americas Inc. grew its holdings in shares of Mohawk Industries by 23.9% during the second quarter. Mufg Securities Americas Inc. now owns 1,150 shares of the companys stock worth $121,000 after purchasing an additional 222 shares in the last quarter. 78.98% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Get Mohawk Industries alerts:

Mohawk Industries Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:MHK opened at $115.54 on Friday. The company has a quick ratio of 1.24, a current ratio of 2.25 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.21. The stock has a market cap of $7.14 billion, a PE ratio of 17.19, a PEG ratio of 2.38 and a beta of 1.31. The companys fifty day moving average is $118.78 and its 200 day moving average is $116.69. Mohawk Industries, Inc. has a 52 week low of $96.24 and a 52 week high of $143.13.

Insider Transactions at Mohawk Industries

Mohawk Industries ( NYSE:MHK Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data 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 company had revenue of $2.76 billion for 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 firms quarterly revenue was up 1.4% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the business posted $2.90 earnings per share. Mohawk Industries has set its Q4 2025 guidance at 1.900-2.000 EPS. Research analysts anticipate that Mohawk Industries, Inc. will post 9.8 earnings per share for the current year.

In other Mohawk Industries news, insider Suzanne L. Helen sold 2,500 shares of Mohawk Industries stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, November 21st. The stock was sold at an average price of $109.54, for a total value of $273,850.00. Following the transaction, the insider directly owned 79,878 shares of the companys stock, valued at $8,749,836.12. The trade was a 3.03% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. In the last 90 days, insiders sold 8,906 shares of company stock worth $1,067,603. 17.40% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of equities research analysts recently weighed in on MHK shares. Wells Fargo & Company reaffirmed a neutral rating and issued a $130.00 target price on shares of Mohawk Industries in a research note on Monday, October 27th. Barclays lowered their price objective on shares of Mohawk Industries from $125.00 to $122.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, October 27th. Raymond James Financial reiterated a strong-buy rating and issued a $150.00 target price (up from $140.00) on shares of Mohawk Industries in a research report on Tuesday, October 21st. Evercore ISI reduced their target price on Mohawk Industries from $124.00 to $118.00 and set an in-line rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, November 19th. Finally, Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c-) rating on shares of Mohawk Industries in a research note on Friday, October 31st. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eight have assigned a Buy rating and six have issued a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $138.00.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on Mohawk Industries

Mohawk Industries Profile

(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.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Mohawk Industries Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Mohawk Industries and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Tejara Capital Ltd cut its stake in Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (NYSE:TEVA  Free Report) by 56.6% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 78,500 shares of the companys stock after selling 102,300 shares during the period. Tejara Capital Ltds holdings in Teva Pharmaceutical Industries were worth $1,316,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other large investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. US Bancorp DE increased its position in shares of Teva Pharmaceutical Industries by 6.5% in the 1st quarter. US Bancorp DE now owns 10,812 shares of the companys stock worth $166,000 after purchasing an additional 656 shares during the last quarter. MAI Capital Management grew its stake in Teva Pharmaceutical Industries by 26.8% in the second quarter. MAI Capital Management now owns 3,293 shares of the companys stock worth $55,000 after purchasing an additional 697 shares in the last quarter. Wedbush Securities Inc. increased its holdings in Teva Pharmaceutical Industries by 3.3% in the second quarter. Wedbush Securities Inc. now owns 21,995 shares of the companys stock valued at $369,000 after buying an additional 700 shares during the last quarter. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. raised its stake in Teva Pharmaceutical Industries by 15.0% during the second quarter. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. now owns 5,474 shares of the companys stock valued at $92,000 after buying an additional 715 shares in the last quarter. Finally, State Board of Administration of Florida Retirement System lifted its holdings in Teva Pharmaceutical Industries by 1.4% during the 2nd quarter. State Board of Administration of Florida Retirement System now owns 55,445 shares of the companys stock worth $929,000 after buying an additional 762 shares during the last quarter. 54.05% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

Get Teva Pharmaceutical Industries alerts:

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Stock Up 5.3%

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries stock opened at $26.32 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.45, a quick ratio of 0.77 and a current ratio of 1.06. Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. has a one year low of $12.47 and a one year high of $26.45. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $21.43 and a 200-day simple moving average of $18.74. The firm has a market capitalization of $30.19 billion, a P/E ratio of -164.51, a P/E/G ratio of 1.11 and a beta of 0.70.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of equities research analysts have recently weighed in on TEVA shares. Weiss Ratings reiterated a sell (d-) rating on shares of Teva Pharmaceutical Industries in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Wall Street Zen raised shares of Teva Pharmaceutical Industries from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Saturday, October 11th. UBS Group lifted their price target on shares of Teva Pharmaceutical Industries from $23.00 to $26.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, September 24th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their price objective on shares of Teva Pharmaceutical Industries from $26.00 to $28.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Thursday, November 6th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, six have given a Buy rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Buy and a consensus target price of $25.86.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on TEVA

Insider Transactions at Teva Pharmaceutical Industries

In other Teva Pharmaceutical Industries news, Director Roberto Mignone sold 200,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, November 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of $24.11, for a total value of $4,822,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director owned 495,000 shares in the company, valued at approximately $11,934,450. This represents a 28.78% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. 0.49% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Company Profile

(Free Report)

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Limited develops, manufactures, markets, and distributes generic medicines, specialty medicines, and biopharmaceutical products in North America, Europe, Israel, and internationally. It offers generic medicines in various dosage forms, such as tablets, capsules, injectables, inhalants, liquids, transdermal patches, ointments, and creams; sterile products, hormones, high-potency drugs, and cytotoxic substances in parenteral and solid dosage forms; and generic products with medical devices and combination products.

Featured Articles

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding TEVA? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (NYSE:TEVA  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Teva Pharmaceutical Industries and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Scotia Capital Inc. increased its holdings in The TJX Companies, Inc. (NYSE:TJX  Free Report) by 1.3% in the 2nd quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The institutional investor owned 317,163 shares of the apparel and home fashions retailers stock after buying an additional 4,172 shares during the period. Scotia Capital Inc.s holdings in TJX Companies were worth $39,162,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of TJX. Nuveen LLC bought a new position in shares of TJX Companies during the first quarter valued at approximately $1,330,717,000. Laurel Wealth Advisors LLC boosted its position in TJX Companies by 12,417.0% during the 2nd quarter. Laurel Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 4,057,273 shares of the apparel and home fashions retailers stock valued at $501,033,000 after purchasing an additional 4,024,859 shares during the period. ABN AMRO Bank N.V. bought a new position in TJX Companies during the 2nd quarter worth $244,687,000. Mirova US LLC increased its position in TJX Companies by 164.5% in the second quarter. Mirova US LLC now owns 2,699,156 shares of the apparel and home fashions retailers stock worth $333,319,000 after buying an additional 1,678,665 shares during the period. Finally, Amundi lifted its stake in TJX Companies by 10.2% in the first quarter. Amundi now owns 11,888,455 shares of the apparel and home fashions retailers stock valued at $1,489,305,000 after buying an additional 1,104,292 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 91.09% of the companys stock.

Get TJX Companies alerts:

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several equities analysts have recently commented on the stock. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their price target on shares of TJX Companies from $150.00 to $154.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Thursday, November 20th. BTIG Research reissued a buy rating and set a $165.00 target price on shares of TJX Companies in a research note on Thursday, November 20th. Morgan Stanley restated an overweight rating and issued a $162.00 target price (up previously from $159.00) on shares of TJX Companies in a research report on Thursday, November 20th. Citigroup restated a buy rating and issued a $168.00 price target (up previously from $160.00) on shares of TJX Companies in a research note on Thursday, November 20th. Finally, Evercore ISI boosted their price objective on TJX Companies from $162.00 to $165.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, November 20th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, twenty-three have assigned a Buy rating and one has assigned a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Buy and a consensus price target of $158.90.

TJX Companies Stock Up 0.6%

TJX Companies stock opened at $153.32 on Friday. The TJX Companies, Inc. has a 52 week low of $112.10 and a 52 week high of $154.66. The stock has a market cap of $170.63 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 34.92, a PEG ratio of 3.14 and a beta of 0.90. The companys 50-day moving average price is $143.99 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $134.75. The company has a current ratio of 1.17, a quick ratio of 0.52 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.32.

TJX Companies (NYSE:TJX  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, November 19th. The apparel and home fashions retailer reported $1.28 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.22 by $0.06. TJX Companies had a net margin of 8.59% and a return on equity of 58.63%. The business had revenue of $15.12 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $14.80 billion. During the same period last year, the firm posted $1.14 earnings per share. The businesss revenue was up 7.5% on a year-over-year basis. TJX Companies has set its Q4 2026 guidance at 1.330-1.360 EPS. FY 2026 guidance at 4.630-4.660 EPS. On average, analysts expect that The TJX Companies, Inc. will post 4.18 EPS for the current fiscal year.

TJX Companies Dividend Announcement

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, December 4th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, November 13th will be given a dividend of $0.425 per share. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, November 13th. This represents a $1.70 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.1%. TJX Companiess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 37.53%.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other news, Director Amy B. Lane sold 500 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Friday, November 21st. The stock was sold at an average price of $151.40, for a total value of $75,700.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director owned 22,212 shares in the company, valued at $3,362,896.80. This represents a 2.20% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through this link. Also, CEO Ernie Herrman sold 24,363 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, November 21st. The shares were sold at an average price of $151.31, for a total value of $3,686,365.53. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer directly owned 510,780 shares of the companys stock, valued at $77,286,121.80. This represents a 4.55% decrease in their position. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Insiders sold a total of 54,863 shares of company stock worth $8,226,366 in the last three months. Company insiders own 0.13% of the companys stock.

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.

Recommended Stories

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding TJX? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for The TJX Companies, Inc. (NYSE:TJX  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for TJX Companies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for TJX Companies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Japan urged to explain its Taiwan stance

08:47, November 28, 2025 By ZHAO JIA ( Chinadaily.com.cn

People hold a protest in front of the Japanese prime ministers official residence in Tokyo on Wednesday. Hundreds of protesters demanded that Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi retract her erroneous remarks on Taiwan and offer an explanation and apology. ZHU CHENXI / CHINA NEWS SERVICE

China called on Tokyo on Wednesday to provide an accurate, honest and full explanation of its "consistent position" on Taiwan, warning that invoking vague concepts to avoid addressing the substance or attempting to muddle through would not be accepted.

On Tuesday, the Japanese government adopted a statement at a Cabinet meeting saying that Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's remarks in parliament do not change Japan's consistent position.

Earlier this month, Takaichi indicated that a Taiwan contingency involving the use of military vessels and military force from the Chinese mainland could constitute a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan, and that the country's Self-Defense Forces could exercise the right of collective self-defense.

The Cabinet statement said that the determination would be made by considering all available information based on the specific situation. "The government fully maintains its position, and we do not believe a review or reconsideration is necessary," it said.

At a daily news briefing in Beijing on Wednesday, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning criticized the statement, saying that Japan's repeated reference to its "consistent" or "unchanged" position on Taiwan is "hardly adequate".

"What China and the international community want are answers to these questions: What exactly does the Japanese side mean by what they call 'consistent position'? Does the Japanese side still follow the one-China principle?" Mao said.

"Soft-pedaling the issue, putting out unspecified notions without touching on the essence of the issue, and hoping that somehow the issue would resolve itself  such kind of approach will certainly not go anywhere," she added.

Beijing considers Takaichi's remarks as a serious violation of the spirit of the four political documents between China and Japan, eroding the political foundation of bilateral relations and challenging the postwar international order.

The prime minister's comments have also been widely questioned and criticized within Japan and have met with condemnation from the international community.

The statement on Tuesday from the Japanese Cabinet meeting also underscored the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait for Japan's security and global stability, a claim that Mao dismissed as lacking any genuine reflection, saying Tokyo had once again made irresponsible comments on Taiwan and interfered in China's internal affairs.

Mao emphasized that Taiwan is part of China, saying, "How to resolve the Taiwan question and realize national reunification is purely China's own affair and not for Japan to point fingers or even meddle in."

Xiang Haoyu, a senior research fellow at the China Institute of International Studies, said that since the current difficulties were caused by Japan, Tokyo must retract its erroneous statements and take real action to undo its negative impact, if it hopes to restore exchanges and advance the strategic and mutually beneficial relationship.

"Japan's repeated claims that its government position remains unchanged indicate that it has recognized the seriousness of the situation and is trying to defuse tensions. However, its continued avoidance of China's legitimate concerns reflects the persistence of 'using Taiwan to contain China' among certain political forces in Japan," Xiang said.

"Without fundamentally correcting its mistaken approach or giving a direct response to China's serious demands, Tokyo will not help resolve the current situation. If Japan introduces new negative moves or provocative remarks, China will respond accordingly," he added.

In another development, following the Foreign Ministry's recent advisory urging Chinese citizens to avoid traveling to Japan amid worsening safety conditions, Beijing expressed renewed concern over crimes targeting Chinese nationals in Japan.

Mao noted that last week, Japanese police arrested five people suspected of attacking Chinese nationals. She also pointed to a lot of extreme and threatening anti-China remarks online in Japan.

The Chinese embassy and consulates in Japan have recently been repeatedly harassed, both online and offline, by right-wing provocateurs, she added.

"We urge the Japanese side to take China's concerns seriously, and make concrete efforts to ensure the safety and security of Chinese nationals and institutions in Japan," she said.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Trilogy Metals Inc. (NYSEAMERICAN:TMQ  Get Free Report) shares rose 6.9% during trading on Friday . The stock traded as high as $4.31 and last traded at $4.2450. Approximately 1,230,910 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 71% from the average daily volume of 4,201,804 shares. The stock had previously closed at $3.97.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of research firms have recently issued reports on TMQ. BMO Capital Markets restated a market perform rating and set a $5.50 price target on shares of Trilogy Metals in a report on Friday, October 10th. Cormark lowered shares of Trilogy Metals from a moderate buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Cantor Fitzgerald upgraded shares of Trilogy Metals to a buy rating and set a $10.00 target price for the company in a research report on Tuesday, October 7th. Raymond James Financial raised shares of Trilogy Metals from a hold rating to a moderate buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 7th. Finally, TD Securities reissued a hold rating on shares of Trilogy Metals in a research report on Tuesday, October 7th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and four have issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Trilogy Metals currently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $7.75.

Get Trilogy Metals alerts:

Check Out Our Latest Research Report on Trilogy Metals

Trilogy Metals Price Performance

Insider Transactions at Trilogy Metals

The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $4.35 and a 200 day simple moving average of $2.54. The company has a market cap of $720.43 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -85.90 and a beta of 1.18.

In other Trilogy Metals news, Director William L. Iggiagruk Hensley sold 100,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Wednesday, October 8th. The shares were sold at an average price of $6.39, for a total transaction of $639,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director owned 43,638 shares of the companys stock, valued at $278,846.82. The trade was a 69.62% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Also, CFO Elaine Sanders sold 449,599 shares of Trilogy Metals stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, October 8th. The stock was sold at an average price of $6.84, for a total value of $3,075,257.16. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer owned 3,149,561 shares in the company, valued at $21,542,997.24. The trade was a 12.49% decrease in their ownership of the stock. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Over the last ninety days, insiders have sold 1,064,506 shares of company stock worth $7,275,194. Corporate insiders own 15.20% of the companys stock.

Institutional Trading of Trilogy Metals

A number of institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. increased its holdings in Trilogy Metals by 120.0% in the second quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 562,080 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $759,000 after purchasing an additional 306,547 shares during the last quarter. TSP Capital Management Group LLC boosted its stake in Trilogy Metals by 17.8% during the 2nd quarter. TSP Capital Management Group LLC now owns 6,152,500 shares of the mining companys stock worth $8,306,000 after acquiring an additional 930,000 shares during the last quarter. DLD Asset Management LP acquired a new stake in Trilogy Metals in the first quarter worth $388,000. Old West Investment Management LLC boosted its position in shares of Trilogy Metals by 61.1% during the first quarter. Old West Investment Management LLC now owns 12,611,879 shares of the mining companys stock worth $19,611,000 after purchasing an additional 4,781,670 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Virtu Financial LLC acquired a new position in shares of Trilogy Metals in the 1st quarter valued at $83,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 16.75% of the companys stock.

Trilogy Metals Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Trilogy Metals Inc, a base metals exploration company, engages in the exploration and development of mineral properties in the United States. The company explores for copper, cobalt, lead, zinc, gold, and silver properties. It principally holds interests in the Upper Kobuk mineral projects that include the Arctic, which contains polymetallic volcanogenic massive sulfide deposits; and Bornite that contains carbonate-hosted copper  cobalt deposits covering an area of approximately 448,217 acres located in the Ambler mining district in Northwest Alaska.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Trilogy Metals Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Trilogy Metals and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
TXNM Energy, Inc. (NYSE:TXNM  Get Free Report)s stock price reached a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Friday . The company traded as high as $58.30 and last traded at $58.2550, with a volume of 64586 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at $58.15.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several research analysts have commented on TXNM shares. Jefferies Financial Group downgraded TXNM Energy from a buy rating to a hold rating and raised their target price for the stock from $58.00 to $61.25 in a research note on Monday, October 27th. Citigroup began coverage on shares of TXNM Energy in a report on Thursday, October 9th. They issued a neutral rating and a $61.25 price target on the stock. Finally, Weiss Ratings cut shares of TXNM Energy from a buy (b-) rating to a hold (c+) rating in a research note on Monday. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and six have assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, TXNM Energy presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $58.42.

Get TXNM Energy alerts:

View Our Latest Stock Analysis on TXNM

TXNM Energy Trading Up 0.4%

The company has a current ratio of 0.51, a quick ratio of 0.36 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.49. The stocks fifty day moving average price is $57.15 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $56.71. The stock has a market capitalization of $6.36 billion, a P/E ratio of 30.07, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.69 and a beta of 0.13.

TXNM Energy (NYSE:TXNM  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Friday, October 31st. The company reported $1.33 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.44 by ($0.11). The business had revenue of $647.16 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $608.65 million. TXNM Energy had a net margin of 8.75% and a return on equity of 7.34%. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company earned $1.43 earnings per share. Equities research analysts forecast that TXNM Energy, Inc. will post 2.73 EPS for the current year.

TXNM Energy Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, November 14th. Stockholders of record on Friday, October 24th were paid a dividend of $0.4075 per share. This represents a $1.63 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.8%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, October 24th. TXNM Energys dividend payout ratio is 95.32%.

Insider Activity

In other news, Director Vicky A. Bailey sold 1,800 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, November 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $57.74, for a total value of $103,932.00. Following the transaction, the director owned 8,725 shares in the company, valued at approximately $503,781.50. This trade represents a 17.10% 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. Corporate insiders own 1.28% of the companys stock.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On TXNM Energy

Several institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in TXNM. Cape Investment Advisory Inc. bought a new position in shares of TXNM Energy during the second quarter valued at about $28,000. Huntington National Bank raised its position in TXNM Energy by 1,307.0% during the 2nd quarter. Huntington National Bank now owns 605 shares of the companys stock valued at $34,000 after purchasing an additional 562 shares during the last quarter. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC purchased a new stake in TXNM Energy in the 1st quarter worth approximately $43,000. BI Asset Management Fondsmaeglerselskab A S purchased a new stake in TXNM Energy in the 1st quarter worth approximately $54,000. Finally, Twin Tree Management LP bought a new stake in shares of TXNM Energy in the 1st quarter worth approximately $58,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 91.68% of the companys stock.

TXNM Energy Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

TXNM Energy, Inc, through its subsidiaries, provides electricity and electric services in the United States. It operates through Public Service Company of New Mexico (PNM) and Texas-New Mexico Power Company (TNMP) segments. The PNM segment engages in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for TXNM Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for TXNM Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Uber Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:UBER  Get Free Report)s share price was up 2.2% during trading on Friday . The stock traded as high as $87.62 and last traded at $87.58. Approximately 9,062,875 shares traded hands during trading, a decline of 56% from the average daily volume of 20,647,736 shares. The stock had previously closed at $85.66.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

UBER has been the subject of several research analyst reports. Cantor Fitzgerald lifted their price objective on Uber Technologies from $107.00 to $108.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Wednesday, November 5th. Raymond James Financial raised their price target on shares of Uber Technologies from $100.00 to $105.00 and gave the company a strong-buy rating in a report on Thursday, August 7th. Guggenheim reduced their price target on shares of Uber Technologies from $140.00 to $135.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, November 5th. UBS Group set a $122.00 price objective on shares of Uber Technologies and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, November 5th. Finally, Weiss Ratings restated a buy (b) rating on shares of Uber Technologies in a report on Monday. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, thirty have issued a Buy rating and eight have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Uber Technologies has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $108.26.

Get Uber Technologies alerts:

View Our Latest Research Report on UBER

Uber Technologies Price Performance

The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $93.90 and a 200 day moving average price of $91.88. The stock has a market capitalization of $181.98 billion, a PE ratio of 11.26 and a beta of 1.46. The company has a current ratio of 1.15, a quick ratio of 1.15 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.37.

Uber Technologies (NYSE:UBER  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, November 4th. The ride-sharing company reported $3.11 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.67 by $2.44. The business had revenue of $13.47 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $13.25 billion. Uber Technologies had a return on equity of 68.17% and a net margin of 33.54%.Uber Technologiess revenue for the quarter was up 20.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $1.20 earnings per share. Research analysts anticipate that Uber Technologies, Inc. will post 2.54 earnings per share for the current year.

Insider Activity at Uber Technologies

In related news, CFO Prashanth Mahendra-Rajah sold 5,500 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, November 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $94.41, for a total value of $519,255.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief financial officer directly owned 20,330 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,919,355.30. This represents a 21.29% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. Also, insider Tony West sold 100,000 shares of Uber Technologies stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, September 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $100.38, for a total transaction of $10,038,000.00. Following the transaction, the insider directly owned 171,558 shares in the company, valued at $17,220,992.04. This represents a 36.82% decrease in their position. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. In the last ninety days, insiders sold 567,625 shares of company stock worth $55,385,660. 3.84% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

A number of large investors have recently modified their holdings of UBER. Strategic Advocates LLC bought a new position in Uber Technologies in the 3rd quarter worth $142,000. Kimelman & Baird LLC lifted its position in shares of Uber Technologies by 1.0% in the third quarter. Kimelman & Baird LLC now owns 338,057 shares of the ride-sharing companys stock valued at $33,119,000 after acquiring an additional 3,435 shares in the last quarter. Manhattan West Asset Management LLC boosted its stake in shares of Uber Technologies by 1.7% in the third quarter. Manhattan West Asset Management LLC now owns 58,536 shares of the ride-sharing companys stock worth $5,735,000 after acquiring an additional 984 shares during the period. CIBC Private Wealth Group LLC boosted its stake in shares of Uber Technologies by 72.8% in the third quarter. CIBC Private Wealth Group LLC now owns 49,664 shares of the ride-sharing companys stock worth $4,866,000 after acquiring an additional 20,919 shares during the period. Finally, CIBC Bancorp USA Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Uber Technologies during the third quarter worth about $27,840,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 80.24% of the companys stock.

Uber Technologies Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Uber Technologies, Inc develops and operates proprietary technology applications in the United States, Canada, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia excluding China and Southeast Asia. It operates through three segments: Mobility, Delivery, and Freight. The Mobility segment connects consumers with a range of transportation modalities, such as ridesharing, carsharing, micromobility, rentals, public transit, taxis, and other modalities; and offers riders in a variety of vehicle types, as well as financial partnerships products and advertising services.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Uber Technologies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Uber Technologies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Virtue Capital Management LLC lessened its stake in shares of Cloudflare, Inc. (NYSE:NET  Free Report) by 17.6% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 7,376 shares of the companys stock after selling 1,573 shares during the quarter. Virtue Capital Management LLCs holdings in Cloudflare were worth $1,444,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Other hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. lifted its holdings in Cloudflare by 2.5% in the 2nd quarter. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. now owns 12,962 shares of the companys stock worth $2,538,000 after purchasing an additional 321 shares during the last quarter. Groupama Asset Managment bought a new position in shares of Cloudflare in the second quarter valued at approximately $225,204,000. State Board of Administration of Florida Retirement System lifted its stake in shares of Cloudflare by 1.8% in the second quarter. State Board of Administration of Florida Retirement System now owns 298,751 shares of the companys stock worth $58,504,000 after buying an additional 5,303 shares during the last quarter. Atika Capital Management LLC lifted its stake in shares of Cloudflare by 91.1% in the second quarter. Atika Capital Management LLC now owns 68,801 shares of the companys stock worth $13,473,000 after buying an additional 32,801 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Elevation Point Wealth Partners LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Cloudflare by 67.2% during the 2nd quarter. Elevation Point Wealth Partners LLC now owns 4,091 shares of the companys stock worth $801,000 after buying an additional 1,644 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 82.68% of the companys stock.

Get Cloudflare alerts:

Insider Activity

In related news, CFO Thomas J. Seifert sold 41,555 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Thursday, November 20th. The shares were sold at an average price of $194.18, for a total value of $8,069,149.90. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer owned 137,486 shares of the companys stock, valued at $26,697,031.48. This represents a 23.21% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, CEO Matthew Prince sold 52,384 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, September 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $226.46, for a total transaction of $11,862,880.64. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. In the last 90 days, insiders sold 645,609 shares of company stock worth $135,476,411. 10.89% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of research analysts have weighed in on the stock. Weiss Ratings reissued a sell (d-) rating on shares of Cloudflare in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Needham & Company LLC increased their target price on Cloudflare from $240.00 to $285.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Friday, October 31st. JMP Securities set a $270.00 target price on Cloudflare in a report on Friday, October 31st. Bank of America upped their price target on Cloudflare from $235.00 to $240.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Friday, August 1st. Finally, Citigroup raised their price objective on shares of Cloudflare from $255.00 to $318.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Monday, November 3rd. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, seventeen have assigned a Buy rating, ten have assigned a Hold rating and two have issued a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $235.35.

Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on NET

Cloudflare Price Performance

Shares of NET stock opened at $197.32 on Friday. Cloudflare, Inc. has a 12 month low of $89.42 and a 12 month high of $260.00. The company has a market capitalization of $69.12 billion, a P/E ratio of -657.73 and a beta of 2.10. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $217.46 and a two-hundred day moving average of $199.48. The company has a current ratio of 2.04, a quick ratio of 2.04 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.46.

Cloudflare (NYSE:NET  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 30th. The company reported $0.27 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.23 by $0.04. The business had revenue of $562.03 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $544.65 million. Cloudflare had a negative return on equity of 6.54% and a negative net margin of 5.12%.Cloudflares quarterly revenue was up 30.7% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the business posted $0.20 earnings per share. Cloudflare has set its Q4 2025 guidance at 0.270-0.270 EPS. FY 2025 guidance at 0.910-0.910 EPS. As a group, equities analysts expect that Cloudflare, Inc. will post -0.11 EPS for the current year.

Cloudflare Company Profile

(Free Report)

Cloudflare, Inc operates as a cloud services provider that delivers a range of services to businesses worldwide. The company provides an integrated cloud-based security solution to secure a range of combination of platforms, including public cloud, private cloud, on-premise, software-as-a-service applications, and IoT devices; and website and application security products comprising web application firewall, bot management, distributed denial of service, API gateways, SSL/TLS encryption, script management, security center, and rate limiting products.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Cloudflare Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Cloudflare and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Russell Investments Group Ltd. increased its position in shares of Vistra Corp. (NYSE:VST  Free Report) by 10.2% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 353,534 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 32,740 shares during the period. Russell Investments Group Ltd. owned about 0.10% of Vistra worth $68,523,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Avantax Advisory Services Inc. lifted its position in shares of Vistra by 1.3% during the first quarter. Avantax Advisory Services Inc. now owns 17,238 shares of the companys stock worth $2,024,000 after purchasing an additional 229 shares in the last quarter. Zurcher Kantonalbank Zurich Cantonalbank lifted its holdings in Vistra by 0.9% during the 1st quarter. Zurcher Kantonalbank Zurich Cantonalbank now owns 72,299 shares of the companys stock worth $8,491,000 after buying an additional 634 shares in the last quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp boosted its position in Vistra by 78.4% in the 1st quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp now owns 52,614 shares of the companys stock valued at $6,179,000 after buying an additional 23,118 shares during the period. Foundations Investment Advisors LLC grew its stake in shares of Vistra by 52.6% in the first quarter. Foundations Investment Advisors LLC now owns 2,698 shares of the companys stock worth $317,000 after acquiring an additional 930 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Meeder Advisory Services Inc. increased its position in shares of Vistra by 28.1% during the first quarter. Meeder Advisory Services Inc. now owns 6,102 shares of the companys stock worth $717,000 after acquiring an additional 1,337 shares during the period. 90.88% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Get Vistra alerts:

Vistra Stock Up 3.7%

VST stock opened at $177.14 on Friday. The stock has a market cap of $60.02 billion, a P/E ratio of 63.95, a PEG ratio of 3.04 and a beta of 1.30. The company has a current ratio of 0.99, a quick ratio of 0.88 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 5.74. Vistra Corp. has a twelve month low of $90.51 and a twelve month high of $219.82. The companys 50 day moving average is $192.56 and its two-hundred day moving average is $188.55.

Vistra Increases Dividend

Vistra ( NYSE:VST Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Friday, November 7th. The company reported $1.75 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.78 by ($0.03). Vistra had a net margin of 6.70% and a return on equity of 64.04%. The company had revenue of $4.97 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $6.60 billion. Research analysts expect that Vistra Corp. will post 7 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 Monday, December 22nd will be paid a $0.227 dividend. This is a boost from Vistras previous quarterly dividend of $0.23. This represents a $0.91 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.5%. The ex-dividend date is Monday, December 22nd. Vistras payout ratio is currently 32.49%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several research firms recently commented on VST. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their target price on Vistra from $227.00 to $248.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Wednesday, September 24th. Daiwa America raised Vistra from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, September 17th. Melius Research raised shares of Vistra to a strong-buy rating in a report on Wednesday, August 20th. Daiwa Capital Markets upgraded shares of Vistra from a neutral rating to a buy rating and set a $250.00 price target for the company in a report on Wednesday, September 17th. Finally, Melius began coverage on shares of Vistra in a report on Wednesday, August 20th. They issued a buy rating and a $295.00 price objective on the stock. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, twelve have issued a Buy rating and three have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Buy and a consensus price target of $233.20.

Read Our Latest Research Report on Vistra

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other news, CEO James A. Burke sold 43,074 shares of Vistra stock in a transaction dated Thursday, September 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $208.75, for a total transaction of $8,991,697.50. Following the sale, the chief executive officer owned 217,025 shares in the company, valued at approximately $45,303,968.75. The trade was a 16.56% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. Also, EVP Carrie Lee Kirby sold 58,275 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, November 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $174.75, for a total value of $10,183,556.25. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president directly owned 218,239 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $38,137,265.25. This trade represents a 21.07% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Over the last 90 days, insiders have sold 868,339 shares of company stock valued at $173,242,584. 1.42% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Vistra Company Profile

(Free Report)

Vistra Corp., together with its subsidiaries, operates as an integrated retail electricity and power generation company. The company operates through six segments: Retail, Texas, East, West, Sunset, and Asset Closure. It retails electricity and natural gas to residential, commercial, and industrial customers across states in the United States and the District of Columbia.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Vistra Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Vistra and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
WealthTrust Axiom LLC trimmed its holdings in Bristol Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY  Free Report) by 3.2% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The fund owned 121,999 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after selling 4,015 shares during the quarter. Bristol Myers Squibb accounts for about 1.7% of WealthTrust Axiom LLCs holdings, making the stock its 14th biggest holding. WealthTrust Axiom LLCs holdings in Bristol Myers Squibb were worth $5,647,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in BMY. Trifecta Capital Advisors LLC bought a new stake in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in the 2nd quarter valued at about $25,000. REAP Financial Group LLC increased its stake in Bristol Myers Squibb by 202.8% in the 2nd quarter. REAP Financial Group LLC now owns 639 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $30,000 after purchasing an additional 428 shares during the period. Accent Capital Management LLC bought a new stake in Bristol Myers Squibb in the first quarter valued at approximately $33,000. CBIZ Investment Advisory Services LLC boosted its stake in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb by 66.0% during the first quarter. CBIZ Investment Advisory Services LLC now owns 581 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $35,000 after purchasing an additional 231 shares during the period. Finally, GKV Capital Management Co. Inc. purchased a new position in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in the first quarter worth $36,000. Institutional investors own 76.41% of the companys stock.

Get Bristol Myers Squibb alerts:

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several equities research analysts have weighed in on BMY shares. Daiwa Capital Markets cut shares of Bristol Myers Squibb from an outperform rating to a neutral rating and set a $42.00 price target for the company. in a research report on Tuesday, August 5th. Dbs Bank upgraded shares of Bristol Myers Squibb to a moderate buy rating in a report on Thursday, October 2nd. Sanford C. Bernstein restated a market perform rating on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a report on Monday, November 3rd. Morgan Stanley reaffirmed a hold rating on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a research note on Thursday, July 31st. Finally, Cantor Fitzgerald reissued a neutral rating on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a research note on Monday. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and fifteen have issued a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $54.42.

Bristol Myers Squibb Stock Up 0.6%

BMY stock opened at $49.33 on Friday. The business has a 50 day moving average of $45.51 and a 200 day moving average of $46.62. The firm has a market cap of $100.43 billion, a PE ratio of 19.89, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.23 and a beta of 0.33. Bristol Myers Squibb Company has a twelve month low of $42.52 and a twelve month high of $63.33. The company has a quick ratio of 1.11, a current ratio of 1.21 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.54.

Bristol Myers Squibb (NYSE:BMY  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The biopharmaceutical company reported $1.63 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.52 by $0.11. The firm had revenue of $12.22 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $11.75 billion. Bristol Myers Squibb had a return on equity of 80.04% and a net margin of 10.58%.The companys quarterly revenue was up 2.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $1.80 earnings per share. Bristol Myers Squibb has set its FY 2025 guidance at 6.400-6.600 EPS. On average, research analysts forecast that Bristol Myers Squibb Company will post 6.74 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Bristol Myers Squibb Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, November 3rd. Investors of record on Friday, October 3rd were issued a $0.62 dividend. This represents a $2.48 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 5.0%. The ex-dividend date was Friday, October 3rd. Bristol Myers Squibbs payout ratio is presently 83.78%.

Insider Buying and Selling

In other Bristol Myers Squibb news, EVP David V. Elkins sold 56,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated 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 transaction, the executive vice president owned 167,379 shares in the company, valued at approximately $7,922,048.07. This represents a 25.07% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Insiders own 0.07% of the companys stock.

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.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BMY? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Bristol Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Bristol Myers Squibb Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bristol Myers Squibb and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Whitbread plc (LON:WTB  Get Free Report) shares fell 11.5% on Friday . The stock traded as low as GBX 2,490 and last traded at GBX 2,490. 2,578,030 shares traded hands during mid-day trading, an increase of 7% from the average session volume of 2,415,269 shares. The stock had previously closed at GBX 2,812.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

WTB has been the topic of a number of research analyst reports. Shore Capital reissued a buy rating on shares of Whitbread in a research report on Thursday, October 16th. Panmure Gordon reiterated a buy rating and issued a GBX 3,700 price target on shares of Whitbread in a report on Tuesday. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their price objective on Whitbread from GBX 2,800 to GBX 2,900 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Friday, October 17th. Citigroup boosted their price objective on Whitbread from GBX 3,600 to GBX 3,800 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Thursday, August 21st. Finally, Peel Hunt reiterated a buy rating and issued a GBX 3,500 target price on shares of Whitbread in a report on Thursday, October 16th. Five equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has issued a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of GBX 3,480.

Get Whitbread alerts:

Get Our Latest Research Report on Whitbread

Whitbread Trading Down 11.3%

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 33.18, a current ratio of 0.96 and a quick ratio of 1.74. The firms fifty day moving average is GBX 3,018.16 and its two-hundred day moving average is GBX 2,999.53. The firm has a market capitalization of 4.26 billion, a PE ratio of 17.43, a PEG ratio of -3.09 and a beta of 1.11.

Whitbread (LON:WTB  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, October 16th. The company reported GBX 133.70 EPS for the quarter. Whitbread had a return on equity of 6.83% and a net margin of 8.08%. On average, equities analysts predict that Whitbread plc will post 227.1851852 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Insider Buying and Selling at Whitbread

In other Whitbread news, insider Christine Mary Hodgson purchased 10,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, October 17th. The shares were bought at an average cost of GBX 2,880 per share, for a total transaction of 288,000. Also, insider Richard Gillingwater acquired 500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, October 21st. The stock was acquired at an average cost of GBX 2,974 per share, with a total value of 14,870. 0.38% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

About Whitbread

(Get Free Report)

Whitbread is the owner of Premier Inn, the UKs biggest

hotel brand, with 86,000 rooms in over 850 hotels

and a growing presence in Germany with 10,500 rooms in

59 hotels, offering quality accommodation at affordable

prices in great locations.

People are at the heart of our business. We employ over

38,000 team members in over 900 Premier Inn hotels

across the UK and Germany.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Whitbread Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Whitbread and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Effective protection boosts Yunnan snub-nosed monkey numbers in SW China

People's Daily Online) 13:46, November 28, 2025

Photo shows a Yunnan snub-nosed monkey at the Yunlong Tianchi National Nature Reserve in southwest China's Yunnan Province. (Photo courtesy of the media convergence center of Yunlong county)

Days before the Minor Snow solar term, which fell on Nov. 22 this year, rangers, during a routine patrol, recorded a spectacular sight of Yunnan snub-nosed monkeys moving over a mountain ridge in the Longma Mountain area of the Yunlong Tianchi National Nature Reserve in southwest China's Yunnan Province.

According to Yang Zibing, a professional ranger who participated in the filming, the troop of monkeys began moving and crossing the mountain on the afternoon of Nov. 16, following their midday rest. The activity lasted nearly half an hour.

Photo shows a Yunnan snub-nosed monkey at the Yunlong Tianchi National Nature Reserve in southwest China's Yunnan Province. (Photo courtesy of the media convergence center of Yunlong county)

The Yunnan snub-nosed monkey, under first-class state protection in China, lives at higher elevations than any other primate on Earth. It is one of Yunnan's most representative species and also a signature species of the reserve.

"I have worked as a ranger in the reserve for more than a decade and have been involved in Yunnan snub-nosed monkey monitoring for two years," said fellow ranger Yang Shaoyong. "I used to spot the monkeys from time to time, but it's my first time seeing such a large group together."

Alongside the rare video, the reserve also reported encouraging progress.

Photo shows a Yunnan snub-nosed monkey at the Yunlong Tianchi National Nature Reserve in southwest China's Yunnan Province. (Photo courtesy of the media convergence center of Yunlong county)

The reserve, together with several research institutions and other reserves, has conducted over two years of monitoring, surveys and data analysis, according to Li Yunfang, deputy director of the research institute of the reserve's management and protection bureau.

As of November 2025, the population of Yunnan snub-nosed monkeys in the reserve has reached around 350, increasing by some 20 individuals per year over the past decade.

Photo shows a Yunnan snub-nosed monkey at the Yunlong Tianchi National Nature Reserve in southwest China's Yunnan Province. (Photo courtesy of the media convergence center of Yunlong county)

Located in Yunlong county, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, the Yunlong Tianchi National Nature Reserve, composed of two sections, represents the southernmost habitat of the species. The monkeys were first discovered in the reserve in 1988, when only 50 to 60 individuals were recorded.

Over the decades, however, the reserve has seen a steady growth in their numbers, a rise attributed to effective protection measures.

Intern Hou Shuyue contributed to this story.

Photo shows Yunnan snub-nosed monkeys at the Yunlong Tianchi National Nature Reserve in southwest China's Yunnan Province. (Photo courtesy of the media convergence center of Yunlong county)

Photo shows a Yunnan snub-nosed monkey at the Yunlong Tianchi National Nature Reserve in southwest China's Yunnan Province. (Photo courtesy of the media convergence center of Yunlong county)

(Web editor: Chang Sha, Liang Jun)
Erhai Lake's improved ecology drives tourism boom in Dali, SW China's Yunnan

People's Daily Online) 15:33, November 28, 2025

Blooming Ottelia acuminata, a sign of high water quality, in Erhai Lake in Dali city, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province. (Photo/Yang Jipei)

Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture in southwest China's Yunnan Province has spent years aligning the protection of Erhai Lake with green development, steadily improving the lake's water quality and ecological health.

In August, the Dali prefectural Party committee and government, together with the provincial ecology and environment department, released the Erhai Index, signaling a more scientific and systematic approach to the lake's protection.

In recent years, ongoing efforts at Erhai have focused on aquatic vegetation restoration, fish population regulation and algal bloom prevention, according to Liu Yongding, a researcher at the Institute of Hydrobiology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

The recovery of species such as snow trout and Ottelia acuminata  an aquatic plant that signals high water quality  indicates improved ecological conditions in the lake.

Yang Xuesong, deputy director of the Erhai Management Bureau of Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, explained that the Erhai Index establishes eight evaluation indicators across four dimensions for a comprehensive assessment of the lake's ecological protection.

The index reveals the effectiveness of protection efforts, serving as a comprehensive health check for the lake and better guiding ecological protection work across all aspects, Yang said.

The Erhai Index represents a complete evaluation of the lake ecosystem, which includes meteorological conditions, water bodies, sediments, aquatic organisms and human activity within the watershed, said Wang Xinze, a researcher at Shanghai Jiao Tong University's School of Environmental Science and Engineering.

The return of Ottelia acuminata to Erhai Lake, for example, signifies more than the revival of a single species; it reflects positive trends across the entire lake ecosystem, Wang added.

The Erhai Index evaluation is systematic and creates a channel for public participation in lake protection, Wang noted.

Tourists take photos of migratory birds flying over Erhai Lake in Dali city, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Yunnan Province. (Photo/Ma Wen)

In addition, Dali prefecture has built the Digital Erhai platform, a three-dimensional remote sensing monitoring network, Yang said. The platform monitors water quality and quantity changes in real time across the lake and inflowing rivers, using big data analysis to forecast water quality and algal conditions up to seven days ahead. It also aggregates data from 26 related departments, enabling interdepartmental coordination.

The Digital Erhai platform is vital for sustained lake protection, Yang noted. It enables continuous long-term monitoring, with remote sensing imagery providing comprehensive surveillance of the lake's 252-square-kilometer surface and tracking changes in construction and agricultural land use throughout the watershed.

Since the 13th Five-Year Plan period (2016-2020), Yunnan Province has invested approximately 47.2 billion yuan ($6.64 billion) in advancing the ecological protection of Erhai Lake.

Legal frameworks have also been strengthened. On Dec. 1, 2023, the fifth revision of the regulations for the protection and management of Erhai Lake took effect, legally dividing the Erhai watershed into an ecological protection core zone, an ecological protection buffer zone and a green development zone.

All 27 major rivers flowing into Erhai Lake now meet excellent water quality standards, with the lake maintaining this level for several consecutive years.

At 6 a.m. in Xiamo village, Taihe subdistrict, Dali city, Erhai Lake is bathed in morning sunshine while flocks of black-headed gulls fly over the water.

Along the shore, a coffee shop welcomes visitors eager to photograph the sunrise with swooping gulls.

"Customers aren't just buying a cup of coffee  they're paying for the stunning lakeside scenery and those magical moments when they capture the perfect shot," said Ma Hong, the shop's owner.

Ma grew up by Erhai Lake. As protection efforts have shown results, more tourists are visiting Xiamo village, and residents have increasingly turned to tourism-related businesses, he said.

In Dali city, industries related to Erhai Lake are flourishing. "Tourist demand for 'ecology plus tourism' experiences continues growing, fundamentally driven by the immersive appeal of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake," said Yang Meixiu, deputy director of the prefecture's culture and tourism bureau.

In the first three quarters of this year, Dali prefecture received 98.21 million visits by domestic and international tourists, generating 120.8 billion yuan in tourism revenue, a 19 percent year-on-year increase.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
Stories of High-Quality Development | Pension finance brightens older adults' golden years

People's Daily Online) 10:55, November 28, 2025

Narrator: Wei Lin, Deputy General Manager, China Pacific Life Insurance Co., Ltd.

At 10 a.m. at Pacific Care Home in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province, 92-year-old Wang Shunlai puts on a volunteer vest, pins on his prosecutor's badge and begins explaining legal provisions and solving problems for his neighbors.

Wang began his career as a household registration policeman carrying a canvas bag through the streets and eventually became a chief prosecutor, leading a team honored as a "National Anti-Corruption Advanced Unit." A veteran of the judicial, procuratorial and public security systems, he has spent half his life working with the law. He has been awarded the National May 1 Labor Medal and recognized as one of China's 10 outstanding prosecutors. In retirement, he and his wife have increasingly prioritized the quality of their later years. Seeking a comfortable place to enjoy their retirement, they made Pacific Care Home their new home.

Pension finance serves as an invisible "assistant," bridging the gap between basic elderly care and a fulfilling retirement. With the continuous development of the integrated "comprehensive wellness" ecosystem and the refinement of the "medical-care combination" model, older people are provided with diverse products and high-quality services, freeing them from future worries. For instance, Pacific Care Home has established 15 communities across 13 cities in China. Older people can travel south to Xiamen or Sanya in winter to escape the cold and head north to Qingdao or Beijing in summer to avoid the heat, seamlessly switching between four seasons.

In recent years, financial institutions have made continuous achievements in serving China's multi-tiered, multi-pillar pension insurance system. Pension financial products have become increasingly diverse, offering more choices for people to increase their funding for elderly care.

Today, the scope of elderly care services has gradually expanded beyond traditional financial subsidies and basic daily care, evolving toward diversified and comprehensive support. Particularly with the promotion of community-based and home-based elderly care models, the "insurance-plus-services" model for the new era is accelerating its transformation and upgrading.

The development of pension finance must always adhere to the fundamental principle that "elderly care is the goal and finance is the tool." By prioritizing the client, innovating services, leveraging professional expertise and enabling digital solutions, high-quality pension financial services are being brought to millions of households. Across China, many older people like Wang are eager to contribute their experience. They are passionate about life, and possess both wisdom and professional expertise.

China Pacific Insurance (Group) Co., Ltd. has actively responded to the national strategy for addressing population aging and has become deeply involved in the "three-pillar" old age insurance system, launching a series of insurance products and services tailored to the silver economy. It has also strengthened the use of insurance funds to support these initiatives.

From the prosecutor's office to the retirement home, Wang often says retirement is merely a change of workplace and a different way to contribute. While his life's coordinates have shifted, his passion for life has never faded.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
Revisiting Hijam Anganghal Singhs Khamba Thoibee Sheireng

|

Dr Elangbam Hemanta SinghFor this critical review, four sections from Hijam Anganghals monumental epic Khamba Thoibee Sheireng are examined: Cattle Herding Job, Khamba into Hiding Again, Kang Match, and Een Fishing, based on the English translation by Jodha Chandra Sanasam (Sanasam 136). Sanasams translation, published in 2016, makes available to wider readership a major Manipuri literary achievement. Sana-sam (1944-2021) himself was a respected literary figure and also a Professor of ENT, having won the Sahitya Akademi Award in 2012 for Mathou Kanba DNA (2009).Hijam Anganghal Singh (18921943), who devoted the years 1939 and 1940 to composing the epic, produced an astonishing 39,000 lines, though the work was not published until 1964 by Hijam Raju Singh. Anganghals stature in Manipuri literature is well recognised; in 1948, the Manipuri Sahitya Parishad honoured him posthumously with the title of Kaviratna. His other major works include the plays Nimai Sanyas (1927), Thambal Chongbi (1928), and Ibemma (1938), the epic poem Singel Indu (1938), and the novels Yaithing Konu and Jahera.Khamba Thoibee Shei-reng has long been regarded as the Iliad of Manipur, a description earned through both the scope of its narrative and the magnitude of its cultural influence. At the heart of the poem lies the legendary love story of Khamba and Thoibee, but Anganghal goes far beyond romantic retelling. The poem reconstructs the cultural imagination of the Meitei people and presents social, moral, and historical experiences in epic form. Approaching the text through a cultural-structural perspective drawing on Claude Levi-Strausss structural anthropology and Northrop Fryes myth criticismbrings into view a narrative shaped by shifting social structures, ritual symbolism, and the enduring negotiation between individual aspiration and collective order. Like major world epics, the text works in cycles of fall and renewal and seeks equilibrium between the sacred and the secular.In Book 1, Cattle Herding Job, Anganghal begins not with invocation of divine powers but with stark social reality : In the land of Kege Moirang, none there to take care for, / not even a single tiny fungus gnat to fly for (1). Rather than presenting the cosmic grandeur found at the openings of the Iliad or the Ramayana, Anganghal turns to the deprivation of two vulnerable children. Khamba and Khamnu are described as two kege destitute souls destined as Moirang orphans (1), situating them in a society where birth determines position, yet survival depends on labour. Their orphan-hood reflects not only personal tragedy but the structural economic hardship historically familiar to Manipuri communities.Khambas reverent address to his elder sister Mother selfsame! Call you sister I further / would not; Mother I would rather call you now (1)signals the redefinition of familial structures. Here, filial duty, gender roles, and survival become interdependent. As Levi-Strauss observes, myth operates to mediate contradictions, and Anganghal negotiates the inequality of social hierarchy through familial affection and responsibility. In contrast to the Kshatriya ideals of classical Sanskrit epics or the heroic wrath shaping Greek epic, labour becomes the foundation of heroism. Khamba resolves to go for the wage-earning (2), presenting a vision of heroism rooted in humility and perseverance. One may observe similarities to the early chapters of the Mahabharata, where the exiled Pandavas earn their living through physical effort, yet Anganghals depic- tion maintains a distinctly Manipuri sensibility groun-ded in agrarian work. He- roism arises not from conquest but from the ability to endure and sustain others.This section leads naturally to the transformative encounter in Prince Ching-khuba Naha Telheibas household. Anganghal writes, A house with a cow byre full with cattle he saw inside... / O richness! This is what it is, thought he and entered thus (5). The imagery is reminiscent of the Indo-European epic tradition, in which the household stands as metaphor for cosmic ordervisible in the concept of oikos in Greek epic and grihastha in Vedic culture. The encounter also has echoes of Odysseus entering Ithaca in disguise or Rama arriving in Janakas court before recognition. The prince is struck by Khambas presence, considering him a deity a paragon, a great distinctive victor (67). Yet unlike the Greek or Sanskrit epic pattern in which divine lineage marks the hero, Anganghal allows recognition to arise from inner dignity and serene bearing. Fryes idea of the myth of descent becomes relevant; the extraordinary is discovered in the seemingly ordinary.Khambas meeting with Thoibee is rendered with symbolic restraint. The princess stands motionless, Like wood soaked in quiet water staring at Khamba, no obligation, no rejection (7). Their encounter avoids overt romantic flourish, instead suggesting recognition at the level of destiny. Comparisons emerge naturally with Kalidasas Abhijna-nasakuntalam, Dantes first sight of Beatrice, or the meeting of Paris and Helen, but Anganghals treatment avoids the sensational. Abhinavaguptas explanation of uanta rasa is useful here; the emotional tone aims for serenity rather than passion, portraying love as a harmonising force between individual and society.In Book 2, Khamba into Hiding Again, the narrative introduces concealment as a central motif. Having defeated Nongban in wrestling, Khamba must remain concealed from any Moirang mans notice (17). Khamnu hides him like keeping neatly folded clothes / in store-basket hidden from notice (17). The simile underscores how domestic care, usually the domain of women, takes on mythic resonance. Similar narratives exist in the Bhagavata Purana, where Krishnas safety depends on womens careful protection, and in the Mahabharata, where Arjuna adopts disguise during exile. Levi-Strausss analysis of myth as reconciling oppositions applies clearly: public recognition must temporarily yield to private preservation for the heros destiny to unfold.Thoibees emotional turmoil is expressed in lyric metaphor: O wasp bee from beyond neighborhood! My stranger beloved!(18); her longing becomes sacred endurance rather than romantic despair. Like Pene- lope in Homer, Thoibee sustains the moral centre of the narrative. Her role is not one of passive waiting but custodianship of hope and ethical restraint. Anganghal therefore invests female agency with sublime significance, something often subdued in patriarchal epic traditions.Book 3, Kang Match, locates the love narrative within a communal festival. The traditional Manipuri game of kang represents more than recreation; it becomes a symbolic encounter between destiny and social visibility. Princess Thoibee, freshener of all seasons, / was the team leader of County North (23). This context invites comparison with ritualised contests in epic tradition, such as the chariot race in Homer or the swayamvara of Ramayana, where social values and personal destiny intersect in public space. When Thoibees kang fell down sleek intact from his (Khamba) clothes, (26) the incident becomes fateful rather than accidental. Fryes discussion of ritualised games in heroic narrative helps clarify the symbolic meaning: chance reveals truth, while public action exposes private emotion.Thoibees defence of KhambaDo not flap clothes please; it will bring me / bad names only (26)parallels Draupadis public appeal in the Mahabharata, though with a significant difference. In Anganghal, it is women who act as protectors of honour, rather than supplicants dependent upon patriarchal mercy. The balance between ritual pressure and individual assertion is a key element of Anganghals narrative architecture.In Book 4, Een Fishing, the poem expands into ecological symbolism. Loktak Lake is not backdrop but living participant in the narrative. The union of water and land became genuine aquatic lotus flowers blooming / at the joining line between water and land (28). The lotus, a symbol shared across Indian religion and art, signifies renewal. In Manipuri context, the lake and its rooted vegetation, the phum, are part of cultural memory and lived environment. When Khamba and Thoibees meeting on the lake, on Khambas boat this phum happened to bump (29), is structured as a moment of destiny rather than coincidence. The broken bows and the recognition that followsmarked by the chain and the stole the lady and / the maid recognized (30)create a moment similar to Penelopes recognition of Odysseus, or Rama and Sita reunited.What is remarkable is the emotional restraint of the scene. The closing dialogueLook listen, little brother ibungo, your big sister / wants to tell you (31)uses idioms of kinship to shape loves expression. This intertwining of familial and romantic language captures an ethical universe in which personal affection must coexist with community expectations. The poem continuously navigates between nature and society, desire and duty, and emotion and restraint.Khamba Thoibee Sheireng differs from many epics in its narrative voice. Rather than a single, authoritative bard, the poem carries echoes of collective oral tradition, particularly that of pena minstrels. This quality aligns with A. K. Ramanujans argument that Indian folklore is context-sensitive, meaning that myth and everyday life are intertwined. Anganghals narrative not only retells history and legend but preserves memory, cultural ethics, and landscape. Loktak Lake, Moirang hills, and cattle pastures form what modern ecocritical thought would call a bioregional imaginationidentity anchored in soil, water, labour, ritual, and everyday speech. Khamba is therefore less a conqueror than a guardian of social and environmental balance, which distinguishes him from epic heroes such as Achilles or Beowulf.When compared with global epic tradition, the poem participates in the shared pattern of the romance-epic, blending the forces of love, social rivalry, labour, nature, and moral education. It affirms duty and community like the Ramayana, shares the heightened emotional resonance of Greek epic, yet departs from both by elevating work and humility to heroic stature. Following Fryes terminology, the narrative embodies the mythos of spring, moving from hardship toward renewal. The barren description of Moirang at the beginning eventually gives way to the fertile landscape of Loktak, symbolising restoration of balance between individuals and the world they inhabit.Vimala Raina, in Khamba Thoibi and Poems on Manipur (1963), notes that the story appears to belong to the reign of Chingkhu Telheiba in about 1302 AD a labyrinth of stories and incidents interconnected with semi-historical and semi-mythological trends. Suniti Kumar Chatterji, writing in N. Tombi Singhs Khamba and Thoibi: The Unscaled Height of Love (1976), assigns the narrative to the time of King Loyamba in the twelfth century. Tombi Singh adds that The immortal love story of Khamba and Thoibi is not a legend but a historical event. Anganghals version begins with a devotional prologue invoking Shri Gurudev, Shri Shri Shri Khamba Mahaprabu, and Shri Shri Shri Ksna, indicating the presence of sacred resonance in the framing of the narrative. Sanasams 2016 translation, with its reorganisation into 43 parts and additional contextual materials on Anganghals life and legacy, presents the story anew for modern readers.In conclusion, Khamba Thoibee Sheireng deserves its position within the world of major epic traditions. Anganghal creates a synthesis in which history, legend, ritual, and the insights of daily life are inseparable. The hero is not valorised for military conquest but for endurance, labour, and devotion. Thoibee is not merely an object of affection but a moral anchor whose voice shapes the ethical landscape of Moirang. Loktak Lake and the countryside of Manipur are not passive settings but active participants in human destiny. Through patterned narrative, symbolic inversion, and archetypal framing, Anganghal crafts an epic that is both deeply local and universally comprehensible. By humanising the sacred and sanctifying the ordinary, the poet places Moirang in the company of Ayodhya, Troy, Ithaca, and Hastinapura, while preserving for posterity the values, aesthetics, and living memory of Manipuri cultural imagination.The writer is with Manipur College, Imphal and can be reached at [email protected]
From November 3 to November 28 Indifference or inefficiency ?

|

The timeline given here in bold is done so with a purpose. On November 3 the Manipur Progressive Pig Farmers Association (MPPFA) had a story to tell the media, a story that was meant to be told to Manipur. A large number of pigs had been infected by an unidentified disease at Phibou, Kakching, Ukhongsang, Kumbi and Moirang Khunou. Nothing seemed to move, and it was only on November 10 that experts of the Central Agriculture University (CAU) flagged the concern over the outbreak of African Swine Fever while interacting with a number of pig farmers via video conference. Nothing was heard from the side of the State Government, particularly the Veterinary Department. Eleven days later, that is on November 21 came the news that 64 pigs have been culled in Kakching confirming the outbreak of African Swine Fever. Churachandpur was another district wherein the outbreak was confirmed. For a week everything was quiet after this, but on November 28 came the news that ASF has been confirmed at a pig farm at Keirao Salam Leikai in Imphal East. It gets more interesting and intriguing from here. The said pig farmer first reported the stillborn case of five piglets on October 27 to the Veterinary Department through its helpline 1962. The Veterinary Department did send a team to the said farm on October 28, one day after the matter was reported and on this day too, one pig died. The next few days had the same story with one more pig dying on October 29 and again on November 6. Here again a team from the Veterinary Department arrived at the said pig farm on November 7 and it was only then that samples were collected to be sent for confirmation of African Swine Fever. While waiting for the results to come, more pigs died and altogether 27 pigs have died since then. The timeline given here should tell a significant story for the apprehension of the outbreak of a disease was told to Manipur on November 3 and confirmation report of African Swine Fever was rolled out only on November 21. What took the Veterinary Department so long to confirm the outbreak of the highly contagious disease ? Samples from Manipur are usually sent to the North Eastern Regional Disease Diagnostic Laboratory in Guwahati and it is hard to believe that it would have taken ten or eleven days to confirm the outbreak of ASF. Moreover it was as way back as November 3 that the MPPFA had flagged concern over the outbreak of an unknown disease in pig farms located in at least five places ! Did the Veterinary Department swing into action back then ? It was on October 28 that the deaths of five stillborn piglets were reported and it is not clear whether samples were collected to be sent for confirmation. Questions which the Veterinary Department should answer, for today ASF is real, very real and it is flummoxing to note the lethargic pace with which the said department moved to deal with the matter.

Indifference, lethargy, inefficiency are the words that come to mind when one looks at the manner in which the State has responded to the unfolding situation. The generally held public perception is Government employees work more efficiently when the State is under Presidents Rule as the pressure of political interference is absent, but looking at the way in which the Veterinary Department has responded to the unfolding situation, this perception may just be tossed for a six ! Outbreak of ASF is not new to Manipur, and the moment information about unnatural deaths of pigs was received, everything ought to have moved at a fast pace. There is still no answer on why the result took so long to come back from the testing lab, much less on why there is no report of samples being collected to be sent to the lab when reports of unnatural deaths of pigs started coming in. It was never like this earlier, or did it also take days for the confirmed report to come from the lab ? Or were the samples sent to some far away place and not Guwahati ? Even if that is the case, geogpraphical distance should not be a factor in the internet age, when information can be shared with a press of the button. Fortunate that ASF is zoonotic, meaning it does not infect humans, but what if the virus mutates ? Will Manipur have to wait for days to get the result ?
Dots connecting spike in Dengue cases and climate change drawn

|

Yaiphaba Meitei KharibamIMPHAL, Nov 27 : Changing weather patterns across the globe has impacted human society in every possible way. Almost every aspect of human life has been affected by climate change.In the past, summer was the mosquito season and mosquito repellents/coils were mostly used only during this period. Now, mosquito repellents/coils are used even after the harvest season in Poinu as these insects have become prevalent year-round, said a 70 year old elder.In 2024, Manipur reported a total of 2443 Dengue cases.Showing a significant rise, 5369 cases have been reported in 2025 (till November 26).On November 13, the State logged a 201.06% increase in reported Dengue cases compared to last year, with Imphal West recording the highest number of infections among all districts.Speaking to The Sangai Express, an official of the Health Directorate said Dengue has gone from being a seasonal disease to a perennial disease.Cases are reported from January to December in Manipur.The official cited unplanned urban development and increasing temperatures as the main contributing factors for the rise in Dengue cases.Unplanned urban development often creates environmental conditions that facilitate the creation of more breeding sites for the Dengue mosquito (Aedes).The National Centre for Disease Control, Government of India, National Health Mission and National Programme on Climate Change and Human Health conduct joint surveys related to human health and climate change and release annual reports.Meanwhile, the Ministry concerned has advised the respective Climate Change Department of the States to work with relevant departments on vector borne diseases.According to Dr T Brajakumar, Director, Directorate of Environment & Climate Change, Dengue has a long history with cases reported from as early as 1950.Dengue mosquitoes thrive in temperatures between 26C and 28C which accelerates breeding/egg laying. Higher temperatures accelerate their life cycle, he added.According to the Directorate of Environment & Climate Change's maximum temperature report from 1970 to 2024, 10 months (March to November) out of 12 have recorded temperatures higher than 30C. This shows a noticeable rise in temperature in the State, said the Director.Speaking about contributing factors in the spike in Dengue infections, he said the mosquitoes can thrive during periods of increased rainfall, droughts or floods.During droughts, Dengue mosquitoes lay eggs in stagnant/stored water kept for household use, he added.Changing weather patterns, and climate change in general, has created favourable environmental conditions for the mosquitoes to thrive, leading to increased infections throughout the year.As per the State Action Plan on Climate Change (SAPCC) Manipur, during the last 100 years, the State experienced an increase in minimum temperature by 1.7C and maximum temperature by 1.5C.Rainfall is erratic in nature and total annual rainfall of the State varied from 956.5 mm to 2268.9 mm during the last 60 years.An increase above 1.7C temperature and rainfall of 15-19% by mid 2030s has been projected for Manipur.In Indias Network for Climate Change Assessment (INCCA)s report, the climate change impacts and vulnerability in Manipur has been highlighted over four sectors, namely, Water Resources, Forests, Health and Agriculture and its allied sectors.As per the Directorate of Environment & Climate Change's maximum temperature report (2015-2025), the highest temperature for 2015 for the State was reported in Chandel district at 39.98C in April.The same district reported the highest temperature in 2016 and 2017, recording 39.86C in May (2016) and 39.97C in June (2017).In 2018, Tamenglong recorded the peak temperature in August with 39.92C.Chandel reported 39.99C in April (2019); Noney reported 39.83C in June (2020); Tengnoupal-39.97C in April (2021) and 39.99C in April (2022).A striking highlight of the report can be seen in 2023 when temperatures reached 40C in Tengnoupal in the month of April.In the same year, Noney district also experienced a blistering 40C heat in May and September. Again in 2024, temperatures reached 40C in May and crossed over to 42.19C in September.For 2025, the report includes maximum temperatures for the State till the month of August.As per the data, Imphal West recorded 41.91C in June.The fact that temperatures have steadily risen in Manipur can be clearly seen from this report.Speaking in this connection, Dr Arati Ningombam, Senior Scientist, ICAR-NEH, Manipur Centre, said that concrete drains have been constructed in the name of development. This has led to the disappearance of many fishes/insects that eat mosquito/larvae.She also stressed on the dangers brought on by rising minimum and maximum temperatures caused by changing weather patterns across the globe.Though the spike in Dengue cases can be termed as a fallout of drastic climate change, individual responsibility plays a big role in order to lower the number.Proper understanding and awareness can help in preventing the disease, say experts.This report is part of the 6th Manipur State Level Media Fellowship Programme, organized by the Department of Environment and Climate Change, focusing on climate change reporting.
The 22-year-old became a social media sensation, with long lines of customers coming daily to buy his rice from the back of his car. Now El Chino Venezolano has opened a business in the trendy Malasana neighborhood of the Spanish capital

Amid the immigration crackdown in the United States, there are success stories that break the pattern of so many personal tragedies. Yony Hung, a 22-year-old born in Venezuela to Chinese parents, is one such story. After living in the U.S. for seven years, Hung recently took the streets of New York by storm with an informal, intriguing business.

The idea started three years ago when thousands of his fellow Venezuelans came to the Big Apple, but it only materialized a few weeks ago when he began selling portions of Venezuelan-style fried rice (a tropicalized version of the famous chow fan rice, which includes beef, chicken, shrimp, diced ham, vegetables, and wheat germ) in Brooklyn. From his car trunk, he offered a menu that also included spring rolls, ribs, sweet and sour sauce, and typical sodas from the South American country like Polar malt and Frescolita. The rice alone cost $15, and according to Hung, they sold up to 200 portions a day.

The first customers were Venezuelan immigrants driven by nostalgia. They vouched for the quality and authenticity of the menu, which quickly went viral on social media. The Instagram account @elchinovenezolanovnzl took off, and word eventually spread to other Latin American immigrants and New Yorkers, always curious to try new culinary offerings in a city with over 20,000 restaurants from all over the world.

Some satisfied customers shared that the wait time in line to make a purchase exceeded two and a half hours. Far from deterring people, this fueled FOMO (fear of missing out) among the crowd, who repeatedly underscored the friendliness with which Hung served them.

Actress Sarah Jessica Parker shared the news of Hungs success in the city with her millions of Instagram followers, boosting the number of diners. And music star J Balvin sampled the dishes after visiting a recording studio located directly across from where Hung sold his rice every morning.

From New York to Madrid

Hungs immigration adventure began when he was just 15 years old. He packed his bags and, like so many others, left his native Venezuela in search of the American dream, but he did so carrying a culinary tradition with him. It was his uncle and aunt, owners of a Chinese restaurant on Margarita Island (Venezuela), who taught him everything he knows about cooking today.

After weeks of fruitful sales and thousands of dollars in revenue, the Venezuelan-Chinese entrepreneur arrived in Madrid, Spain on November 22nd to continue his culinary crusade, this time with the opening of his first real restaurant, which he financed with the profits from his U.S. venture. Seven years ago, I started from scratch. I was a waiter, I studied, I worked hard I left New York because I believe success is everywhere. This opportunity presented itself in Madrid, and I couldnt pass it up, he celebrated after cutting the ribbon at his establishment, located in the trendy Malasana neighborhood (at 86, San Bernardo Street), where lines of customers have once again formed.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
The veteran politician resigns from the office two years before the end of his term, leaving Claudia Sheinbaum free to complete her security cabinet

Alejandro Gertz Manero, one of the veteran figures of Mexican politics, has stepped down as attorney general but, at 86, he is not retiring from public life. In his resignation letter, he said that he will become an ambassador to a friendly country. His departure had been widely rumored before, as had his health issues, but it was only on November 27 that he finally stepped aside.

Gertz waited until 5:15 p.m. to submit his resignation, after hours of chaos in the Senate. His departure clears the way for Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum to complete her security cabinet. Until now, Gertz had been the only member not appointed by the president.

Gertz became Mexicos first attorney general in January 2019, nominated by then-president Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. Previously, the institution had been called the Procuraduria. Although it may seem like a cosmetic change, it was actually a deep constitutional reform designed to give the office autonomy from the executive branch. From then on, the attorney general would serve a nine-year term, independent of presidential terms, meaning they could no longer be removed at the whim of a new president. Gertz, who was 79 when he assumed the office, was therefore supposed to serve until the age of 88. He did not make it that far.

However, he wielded a power that could become a weapon: institutional independence. Critics argue that Gertz used his enormous influence to settle personal vendettas and protect alleged business interests. While his job was to defend the Mexican people, in the eyes of many he was a self-serving attorney general.

Alejandro Gertz Manero, during a report on his first 100 days as Attorney General, in May 2019. Galo Canas (CUARTOSCURO)

Gertzs appointment as attorney general in 2019 marked the return of a political survivor to public life. Born in Mexico City into a wealthy family with a background in the fine arts, he began his public career immediately after earning his law degree in 1961, during the final years of president Adolfo Lopez Mateos Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) administration. In his early years, he combined work as a bureaucrat with roles as an entrepreneur, teacher, researcher, and writer  he is credited with authoring around a dozen historical and biographical books, according to his resume.

In just over a decade, he rose from minor government positions  assistant, private secretary, legal adviser  to become Mexicos first anti-drug czar under president Luis Echeverria in 1975. His office was officially called the National Coordination of the Campaign Against Drug Trafficking. Unofficially, the campaign became known as Operation Condor and marked the beginning of Mexicos punitive approach to the drug war, which has fueled the countrys ongoing crisis of violence, disappearances, and forced displacement.

Alejandro Gertz Manero, when he was secretary of public security in the capital, in the year 2000, during an inspection of the facilities of the body. Alberto Valdez

In 1998, Cuauhtemoc Cardenas, founder of the Party of the Democratic Revolution (PRD), appointed Gertz as secretary of public security for Mexico City. Cardenas became the first opposition politician to win the capital through a democratic vote. Was Gertz  a bureaucrat empowered for decades by the PRI  truly turning left with his appointment, or was it simply a pragmatic shift by a man adept at navigating the theater of politics? A lover of the dramatic, Gertz  after all  was the son of a fiction writer, Mercedes Manero, and had founded the National Association of Theater Producers in 1975.

Gertz served in Cardenas government for two years. In 2000, he became the federal secretary of public security under Vicente Fox, a charismatic businessman from the conservative National Action Party (PAN). From this position, Gertz witnessed Joaquin El Chapo Guzman, head of the Sinaloa Cartel, escape for the first time  he would escape again  from a supposedly maximum-security prison in Jalisco in 2001, hidden inside a laundry cart. Guzman would not be recaptured for another 13 years. Despite this scandal, Gertz remained in office until 2004, when he resigned to retire at the age of 65.

On July 2, 2004, Vicente Fox speaks with his secretary of public security. JOSE LUIS MAGANA (AP)

Gertz had no financial concerns. The grandson of a German businessman, Cornelius Gertz, the lawyer possessed a fortune that allowed him, in the years following his retirement, to acquire four homes in Spain worth 113 million pesos (more than $6 million), according to an investigation by this newspaper. He also bought an apartment in New York and another in Santa Monica, California, valued at $3.5 million, according to Univision. That does not include the 122 luxury vehicles he purchased for 110 million pesos ($6 million), according to an accusation by the Financial Intelligence Unit (UIF) reported by El Universal. Gertz has always denied any irregularities in his immense wealth, the size of which he did not disclose to the Ministry of Public Administration, nor did he reveal any potential conflicts of interest.

In 2009, Gertz made a largely symbolic return to the political stage as a federal deputy for Movimiento Ciudadano (Citizens Movement), a young leftist party. During the three years he held the seat, he submitted 14 reform initiatives, none of which succeeded, and he was absent for more than half of the votes.

Alejandro Gertz, then secretary of public security, arrives by helicopter to talk with auxiliary police officers who were staging a blockade in Mexico City, in the year 2000. Echery Salmeron (Cuartoscuro)

Lopez Obradors rise to government following the 2018 election marked yet another return of Gertz to politics, this time with a level of power he had never held during his previous six decades as a public servant. The architect of his alignment with the Obrador administration and his subsequent appointment as attorney general was the influential Julio Scherer Ibarra, who served as legal adviser to the presidency. Initially allies at the start of the presidential term, their dramatic falling out in 2021 cast doubt on the impartiality of law enforcement and criminal prosecution under Gertz at the Federal Attorney Generals Office (FGR).

The most scandalous case involved his former sister-in-law, Laura Moran, and her daughter, Alejandra Cuevas, whom Gertz reported to the Mexico City Attorney Generals Office over the death of his brother Federico. Gertz accused both of homicide for allegedly neglecting his relatives health. The capitals prosecutor closed the case in 2016 due to lack of evidence. However, it was reopened in 2020, after Gertz took charge of the FGR. Immediately, Alejandra Cuevas was detained and imprisoned, where she remained for a year and a half until the Supreme Court ordered her release.

Alejandro Encinas, now in the Ministry of the Interior, speaks with Alejandro Gertz, when both were deputies, in 2010. Guillermo Perea (Cuartoscuro)

Beyond the cases where Gertz may have had a personal interest, it is undeniable that he was a loyal operative who understood Lopez Obradors priorities and, in line with those winds, directed the FGR. There are several examples. When the U.S. government arrested General Salvador Cienfuegos, former secretary of defense, on drug trafficking charges, the Mexican president was concerned about the damage such accusations could do to the Armed Forces image. Cienfuegos was returned to Mexico, and shortly afterward the FGR announced that no legal action would be taken against him due to lack of evidence. Not only that: Gertz threatened to file international complaints against the U.S. investigators who dared to accuse the general.

Lopez Obrador repeatedly said that he prefers that those accused of corruption return what they stole rather than spend their lives in prison. The attorney general listened to the presidents peculiar conception of justice and, based on it, pursued through the FGR the multimillion-dollar Pemex frauds and the Odebrecht bribery cases that marked Enrique Pena Nietos term, such as those involving Alonso Ancira and Emilio Lozoya.

During Gertzs tenure, the FGR also closed the case on electoral crimes against Pio Lopez Obrador, Lopez Obradors brother, and pursued 31 Conacyt scientists following accusations from the president. This was because Gertz showed far less leniency toward Lopez Obradors opponents, such as Rosario Robles, a former friend and collaborator of the president who later aligned with the PRI. At the FGRs request, Robles was imprisoned  without a sentence  for three years for the multimillion-dollar embezzlements of the Master Scam during Pena Nietos government. Gertz pressured her to implicate former finance secretary Luis Videgaray in the corruption schemes, but did not achieve his objective.

Protesters outside the New York courthouse where Cienfuegos was tried, after the charges against him were dropped, in 2020. BRENDAN MCDERMID (Reuters)

Claudia Sheinbaums rise to power left Gertz out of place. Although he made gestures toward the new presidents government and toward Omar Garcia Harfuch, the powerful security czar, it was not enough to secure his position. For weeks, reports circulated that officials in the National Palace were pressuring the attorney general to step down from the FGR, since, according to Article 102 of the Constitution, the president can only remove him for serious reasons. The other option was the long-discussed reform of the Attorney Generals Office. Sheinbaum carried out Lopez Obradors flagship plan to reshape the judicial system, but experts all agreed: without changing how the Attorney Generals Office functioned, impunity in the country  hovering around 95%  would not improve.

Gertz was useful to Sheinbaum in addressing some of the early crises of her government, such as the discovery of the Teuchitlan ranch, the forced recruitment center of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, where he appeared publicly to deny that it was an extermination site, as searcher collectives had claimed.

However, Sheinbam also criticized some of his actions. This week, for example, a scandal erupted over Miss Universe and its powerful president, Raul Rocha. The businessman had an outstanding arrest warrant and had been under investigation by the FGR since 2024. Members of the Attorney Generals Office were also involved in this investigation. In response to the snowballing situation, Sheinbaum asked Gertz to clarify the matter. Additionally, just hours before the attorney generals resignation on Thursday, the president  who had not announced his departure  stated: We need much greater coordination between the state Attorney Generals Offices and the FGR.

Critics argue that Gertz squandered the nascent independence of the FGR, failing to steer a country riddled with impunity toward genuine law enforcement. That task will now fall to a Sheinbaum ally, the final link in the chain.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
Dmitry Muratov, 64, speaks like someone who has just returned from a journey into an undesirable future that now casts a shadow over countries that once thought themselves immune. I have to warn you that you are currently interviewing an enemy of the state, says the Russian journalist.

The 2021 Nobel Peace Prize laureate is referring to the blacklist he has been placed on by Vladimir Putins government, the same government that has shut down almost all critical media outlets and imprisoned 48 journalists. Muratov described the democratic dismantling in his country during a lecture at the Auditorio do Mar in Vigo, Spain, where he gave a talk on November 12. Speaking to business leaders, economists, politicians, and bankers attending the Vigo Global Summit, he warned about the new guises under which the same old totalitarianism is advancing around the world. In Russia, everything is propaganda, he lamented, adding that when attacks on journalism and the erosion of rights and freedoms began, European authorities chose to look the other way.

At Muratovs newspaper, it was clear to everyone that Putin was an authoritarian politician from the moment he seized power in 2000. Novaya Gazeta, a newspaper founded in 1993 and supported by Mikhail Gorbachev, had no trouble perceiving this, as it suffered from the presidents backlash against its critical journalism from the very beginning. Restrictions on freedom of expression and information in Russia worsened after the Beslan terrorist attack in 2004. Two years later, journalist Anna Politkovskaya was murdered. It wasnt the first assassination among Muratovs colleagues at Novaya Gazeta. I wanted to close the newspaper because it was the third death wed suffered. The country had become dangerous for journalists, he recounts. But my colleagues said no, that we had to keep working. Then three more journalists and staffers were killed.

Dmitry Muratov on November 12 at the Auditorio do Mar in Vigo. Alan Perez

What was the European Union doing in the meantime? Muratov illustrates his answer with the example of a prominent European leader who, during a visit to Russia, laid flowers in memory of the journalist Anna Politkovskaya and then went to sign agreements with Gazprom. Putin has made a mockery of European politicians. They should have been talking about human rights, but they were only interested in oil and gas, the journalist says. At least 16 presidents and ministers from European countries started working for companies owned by the Russian president. German chancellor [Gerhard] Schroder, for the state-owned oil company Rosneft. Also, former French prime minister [Francois] Fillon. From Finland, from Austria They all have jobs in Russia, in very large companies.

Putin revoked the license of the newspaper Muratov directs a few days after launching his attack on Ukraine, which the journalist refers to as a special operation to avoid reprisals in his country. The word war is forbidden in Russia, although Putin has used it as the invasion has dragged on. After the Kremlins military offensive, the younger members of the Novaya Gazeta staff decided to go into exile and start a European edition in Riga, the capital of Latvia. The older staff, including the Nobel Peace Prize laureate, remained in Moscow. They launched a poll so that readers could decide whether to close the publication or continue reporting, even under the boot of censorship. It was a huge vote; thousands of people participated. They told us to stop messing around, that they understood everything, and that they wanted us to continue, says Muratov. His work is disseminated through Telegram and YouTube.

Russian journalist Dmitry Muratov. Alan Perez

The Russian journalist paints a bleak picture for the profession and freedoms worldwide. Fascism is returning, he warns, censorship has become globalized, and algorithms do whatever they want. People have stopped believing in the truth, in facts, and most only accept what they see, experience, and feel. Truth and antibiotics are similar: when used too much, they stop working, Muratov states. We journalists have to rebuild everything from scratch. The editor of Novaya Gazeta calls for the creation of international networks of journalists to combat lies by verifying information, especially now that social media owners want to get rid of fact-checking tools. His team already collaborates with Maria Ressa from the Philippines, with whom Muratov shared the Nobel Prize, and with a Chinese platform. They call lying as much as you want freedom of expression. Thats our main problem, he summarizes.

In Europe, instruments still exist to prevent that undesirable future he knows so well, Muratov argues: The EU has a parliament. You can demonstrate and take to the streets. You have newspapers like EL PAIS, La Stampa, Le Monde, Frankfurter Allgemeine You can discuss and talk freely. Here, a musician can sing a song in the street and not go to jail like in Russia. You can express your opinion; we cant. He expresses despair over the situation of political prisoners in his country, among them some 50 journalists. No one heeds their pleas for help, he points out. I spoke with the Pope in Rome, with the Red Cross, with [Emmanuel] Macron No one is doing anything to free these people, he laments. They talk about geopolitics, but no one wants to talk about a specific person. Politics without faces is easier.

The Nobel Peace Prize laureate avoids commenting on the EUs differing treatment of Russia and Israel. He notes that he is arranging a visit to the Gaza Strip to see with his own eyes what is happening. But, at first glance, he notices differences. The tragedy in Gaza is different from that of Ukraine. In my opinion, Hamas provoked Israel. Ukraine never provoked Russia. There were no threats, nor were there any terrorist attacks, he maintains. Ukraine and Russia have always been brothers. Arabs and Jews never have been. They are completely different stories. But there are many dead in both places.

The interview draws to a close, and Muratov makes a stark confession of his despondency regarding Russias future: I have no hope, I live without hope, I am devoid of hope. His resignation is short-lived. The younger generation is the best in history. They are against war, they have empathy... he adds spontaneously. Isnt that hope? Well, yes, the journalist admits with a smile.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
Honduran Vice Foreign Minister Gerardo Torres led a meeting on Thursday in Tegucigalpa with representatives of leftist movements from across Latin America  featuring a strong presence of Venezuelas Chavismo movement and Argentinas Kirchnerism  to present the ruling partys strategy for the final stretch of Honduras elections.

The meeting also addressed comments made by U.S. President Donald Trump, which have further inflamed an already tense election campaign. In a message on Truth Social, Trump endorsed the conservative candidate Nasry Tito Asfura of the National Party, claiming they could work together to combat drug trafficking. Trump also attacked the other candidates, accusing them of being communists.

Torres, however, welcomed the Republicans comments, saying it affects the conservative candidates seeking the presidency of Honduras, which goes to the polls on Sunday. Mr. Trumps tweet makes me very happy; it has turned this election into something extremely media-driven, he said. Trumps tweet is a blow to the right; it hurts one of their candidates. We are not going to contradict him, he insisted.

Torres was optimistic about the impact Trumps comments could have on a sector of the electorate that rejects traditional parties. Many politicians in these parties have been involved in corruption or accused of ties to organized crime  such as former president Juan Orlando Hernandez, who was sentenced in the United States to 45 years in prison for associating for more than a decade with drug traffickers who paid bribes to ensure over 400 tons of cocaine reached U.S. territory. Hernandez rose to the presidency on the back of the conservative National Party, whose current candidate is Asfura  the politician endorsed by Trump.

Trump attacked Rixi Moncada, the candidate of the ruling Libre party, and Salvador Nasralla, a popular television host running for the Liberal Party. I hope the people of Honduras vote for Freedom and Democracy and elect Tito Asfura President! Trump posted on Truth Social, accusing the other candidates of being communists. The one who defends democracy and fights against Maduro is Tito Asfura [...] Trump said. His main opponent is Rixi Moncada, who says his idol is Fidel Castro. Normally, the intelligent people of Honduras would reject him and elect Asfura, but the communists are trying to deceive the people by presenting a third candidate, Salvador Nasralla.

Trumps statements have also drawn reactions from the opposition. Asfura, who describes himself on X as Papi a la orden (Daddy at your service), thanked the Republican for his words. This November 30, we stand firm to defend our democracy, our freedom, and the values that make our country great, he said, referring to the slogan of the MAGA movement.

Nasralla, meanwhile, offered a nod to Trump in hopes of gaining his support. All my respect to the great nation that is the U.S., a natural ally of my beloved Honduras, he posted on X. I deeply regret the malicious disinformation spread by my political rivals who, knowing they will lose, have taken it to the ears of President Trumps advisers. Trump deserves all my respect and utmost consideration. When I am elected by my people this Sunday, he will find in me an ally of freedom in Latin America.

The incendiary comments from the U.S. president, however, produced the opposite reaction from what the ruling party had expected. If there was anyone who didnt know there were elections in Honduras this Sunday, now everyone knows, said Torres. There are even people who went to look at a map to see where Honduras is and find out who Rixi Moncada is, he joked. It puts us in an important position, which creates a wonderful scenario, because Rixis victory will be more famous and important. We have no doubt about her victory, the official asserted.

The comments from Torres, a journalist by profession, illustrate how the Honduran government has fully rallied behind the Libre candidate, even though recent polls indicate Sundays election will be a tight race between Moncada, Nasralla, and Asfura.

An irreparable contradiction

In the meeting with leftist activists on Thursday, Torres argued that Trump misjudged the divisions within the right. According to the vice foreign minister, Nasralla draws independent, discontented voters  people wary of socialism, opposed to figures like Rixi who admire Fidel Castro, and concerned about countries such as Venezuela, Cuba, and Nicaragua.

These are right-wing people who opposed the narco-state, who stood with us in 2015 against the embezzlement of social security, and who know what those criminals are, he said, referring to previous governments. Trump can tweet all day and those people arent going to vote for the return of the conservatives, he asserted.

Torres pointed out that Trump is calling for votes for Juan Orlandos party, even though Juan Orlando is imprisoned in the U.S. for drug trafficking. Its an irreparable contradiction, he said.

The official also warned during Thursdays meeting of latent threats facing Sundays election. The main concern, in his view, is distrust in the vote transmission system, called TREP. He is worried that the vote count could be flawed or manipulated to benefit opposition candidates.

They [the Electoral Council] will try to say that Nasry is winning with an irreversible trend, and then even Trump could congratulate him  and thats when real trouble will erupt in this country, he warned.

Torres warned that the Electoral Council might try to announce that Nasry is winning with an unstoppable lead, and that even Trump could congratulate him, which could trigger real chaos in the country. The resulting disorder could force new elections, which Torres described as the oppositions strategy. If this occurs, Libre wont stand idly by, said Torres.

According to the official, the goal of the opposition is to nullify the elections and hold new ones in six months, leaving Libre weakened and allowing the right to win. The right wing cannot win on Sunday; that needs to be clear and repeated ad nauseam, he said.

Torres also assured that Libres grassroots supporters will mobilize massively on Sunday to vote early and that they will maintain exit poll results, which will be shared throughout the day. He also called on Latin American activists to support Moncadas candidacy on social media. In addition, he promised them a private meeting Thursday night with former president Manuel Zelaya, Xiomara Castros husband, who was removed from power in a military coup in 2009.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
After more than a decade of musical obscurity, Shane Filan, Nicky Byrne, and Kian Egan are celebrating 25 years of their career with a new album and European tour

Westlife is a boy band capable of filling arenas 25 years after their debut  even if the groups members are now in their late forties. The Irish group, the natural successors to phenomenon acts like Take That and Backstreet Boys in the early 2000s, has returned to the stage to celebrate a quarter-century as the good guys of pop.

The illustrious Royal Albert Hall in London hosted the highly anticipated first concerts that Shane Filan, Nicky Byrne, and Kian Egan  while the fourth member, Mark Feehily, has declined to join at this time due to health issues  will perform to mark the anniversary across Europe, in addition to presenting new songs and a new album.

The band behind hits such as My Love and If I Let You Go are taking the stage dressed in tuxedos, accompanied by an orchestra, and ready to perform as long as their hips and fans allow it. The success of this new iteration has been so great that cinemas across the U.K. will screen their latest concert starting November 29, and the band has expressed their excitement about making the most of the emotions they continue to inspire in their fans.

At 47 I go, You know what? Theres a lot of shit in the world. So if you can bring joy to somebodys life and your own, why not? Nicky Byrne recently told The Sun.

The bands journey began under the expert, controlling, and paternalistic eye of Louis Walsh, the manager who had previously led another Irish teen band, Boyzone, to success. They were also under the wing of Simon Cowell, the powerhouse of the British music industry and creator of TV formats like The X Factor and American Idol, as well as a co-architect of One Direction.

Egan, Feehily, and Filan, schoolmates from the Irish town of Sligo, initially formed a sextet with three other friends, who were eventually dismissed after Cowell demanded changes to the lineup, reportedly calling them the worlds ugliest band. Nicky Byrne and Brian McFadden joined later, having beaten hundreds of applicants in a casting call, with the sole mission of following to the letter the formula of 1990s manufactured pop: strong voices, good looks, and polished manners.

The five young Irishmen, dressed in pure white, set themselves apart from other bands of the era by rejecting even the slightest hint of rebellion, defiance, or party antics. There were no tattoos, earrings, provocative choreography, or flashes of individual personality: they presented themselves as the ideal sons-in-law, with the simple promise of packing the most devoted romance into three-minute ballads.

A perfectly tuned, well-oiled machine, they didnt even falter when one member, McFadden, left the band in 2004, citing exhaustion. With near-military discipline, they released nine studio albums in nine years, completed just as many tours, sold over 55 million copies, and even launched an official perfume and chocolate bar.

From left to right, Nicky Byrne, Shane Filan, Kian Egan, Brian McFadden and Mark Feehily, in 1999. United Archives (United Archives via Getty Images)

But the machine soon began to falter, and the bands immaculate image started to show its first cracks. The tight control of their managers, opaque contracts, the prioritization of commercial interests over artistic ones, and a grueling schedule that left them little time to build a life outside the stage gradually eroded the relationships among the members.

It was made very clear to us by the powers that be that our personal lives 100% came second to Westlife, McFadden admitted in the BBC documentary Boybands Forever. We had times where we had relatives die, and we couldnt go to the funeral because there was a gig or an interview that day.

We lived in fear of Louis [Walsh], added Kian Egan. He was like: Youre done. Im going to kick you out of the band. Im going to put you on the next plane home. Only four people can fit in a taxi, not five.

Up until their first breakup in 2012, the decline of Westlifes image was as gradual as it was unstoppable. Shane Filan, the lead vocalist, declared bankruptcy after losing several million dollars in a failed real estate investment. He revealed that he went from being a millionaire to having to search for coins at the bottom of his wardrobe just to feed his wife and three children. He even had to sell his wedding ring, and despite performing in packed concerts, his bank account never exceeded 470 ($545). Accounts recalling their years of international success show that fame came at a cost.

Mark Feehily, who would later publicly come out as gay, has explained in interviews that he suffered from depression and suicidal thoughts because he believed he could never tell anyone his true sexual orientation. I used to stay in my hotel room. Id be there for hours, days sometimes, and I had no motivation to go outside. I thought to myself, If I cant be myself, why bother? [...] My mind went to some very dark places, he told Attitude magazine. The British tabloid press was quick to label Westlife a cursed band.

The following years were marked by silence, personal projects, and lives slowly returning to normal without scandal. Since their solo careers failed to take off, they reinvented themselves as TV hosts and reality show contestants  until 2018, when they announced their unexpected reunion, riding the profitable wave of millennial nostalgia that they have been exploiting ever since without remorse.

You see the generations coming to the shows, people letting their hair down, people remembering the songs from their first kiss, the first dance, all those special things that music does, said Byrne. Not even just for the fans  were having the time of our lives.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup.
The reporter talked to EL PAIS about the imminent release of the case files against the pedophile and his connections to power. Ghislaine Maxwell thinks shes going to be pardoned

In 2017, Julie K. Brown, a journalist for the Miami Herald, was waiting to hear back about a job application at The Washington Post while watching in horror as the Senate confirmed Alex Acosta, nominated by Donald Trump, as secretary of labor. She knew all too well who this man was  the former U.S. attorney in South Florida who, in 2008, agreed to bury the first trial against a multimillionaire named Jeffrey Epstein, accused of abusing dozens of minors at his Palm Beach mansion. Acosta rewarded him with a lenient plea deal that allowed Epstein to serve just 13 months in jail.

Brown wondered what those victims must have felt, seeing the man who let their abuser get away succeed. So she proposed to her editor that they revisit the story, and she did so as if resurrecting a cold case crime, she explained last Friday in a phone interview. She located around 80 victims, some of whom were only 13 years old when the financier assaulted them. The Post eventually called to say they werent interested. Sometimes things happen for a reason, she recalls now.

The series of reports she published ultimately derailed Acostas career, led to Epstein being prosecuted a second time, and resulted in the conviction of his accomplice, Ghislaine Maxwell, who was sentenced to 20 years in prison. Federal prosecutors in New York used that reporting to charge the disgraced financier in 2019  amid the #MeToo movement  with sex trafficking for acts committed between 2002 and 2005 in Miami and New York. In August of that year, Epstein killed himself, according to the coroner, in a Manhattan maximum-security cell while awaiting trial.

Brown has been following with great interest both the latest declassifications of documents in the case and the process that led Trump to sign a bill giving the Department of Justice 30 days to release Epsteins files after months of opposing the measure. Honestly, I never thought this moment would come, says the reporter.

Question. Are you afraid that the Justice Department will exploit loopholes in The Epstein Files Transparency Act to withhold information?

Answer. Absolutely. I think they will try to cover up for powerful men. And like they say, the cover-up is often worse than the crime itself. This has been a phenomenal cover-up operation for decades. I cant help but be skeptical.

Q. The law requires that materials be distributed in a downloadable format and be searchable. Whats the first thing youll type into the search engine?

A. Everyone will be searching for Trumps name. Maybe Acosta.

Alexander Acosta, as U.S. secretary of labor, in an appearance on July 10, 2019, after his role in the Jeffrey Epstein child abuse case was revealed. Leah Millis (REUTERS)

Q. What do you think drove Acosta to do what he did?

A. Ambition. He wanted to advance his career. He wasnt interested in going up against someone so influential. In the end, it hurt his career more.

Q. Hes surprisingly absent from the conversation these days

A. He should be front and center. And not just him. In one of the latest document dumps, we learned that Epstein corresponded with another prosecutor in Acostas office, and that he had dinner with him in the years after he got his plea deal. That they became friends seems very serious to me. There was another prosecutor who went on to work for Epstein. I do not understand why the Justice Department has not looked at this closer.

Q. The big question is: What is Trump hiding about Epstein?

A. I dont know the answer. I may know a lot about the case, but I do not know why he has been fighting this. I dont know what he saw in the files, or what someone told him they saw in the files, but there are obviously things in there that he doesnt want released. And the more agitated he becomes, the angrier he becomes. Its worse because it just makes people more and more suspicious.

Epstein and Trump in 1997, in Florida. Foto: Davidoff Studios (Getty Images)

Q. Why have the powerful figures who have fallen so far been brought down abroad, rather than in the United States? Im thinking of former Prince Andrew, modeling agent Jean Luc Brunel (who killed himself in prison in France before his trial for rape), Peter Mandelson, the British ambassador to the United States

A. Thats a very good point. Perhaps other people around the world have taken this case more seriously than our own elected officials.

Q. Or is that in the U.S. money can buy almost anything?

A. When I wrote my series of articles, members of Congress were already demanding a more thorough investigation. The Justice Department did its own investigation, but held no one accountable. The only person who has been held accountable is a woman: Ghislaine Maxwell. I hope the forthcoming files will explain why it was only her.

Q. She is now receiving preferential treatment after cooperating with the Trump administration. Is there a possibility she will be pardoned?

A. I think she believes shes going to be pardoned. She has a lot of information, and shes setting herself up for a pardon.

Q. Is the Epstein list a conspiracy theory?

A. I think there is a list, but not as a specific document. There is a list of people who helped Epstein, and Im sure the FBI, at some point, compiled a list of those potential suspects.

Q. Tell me how you approached your investigation...

A. I knew there were a lot of people involved, important and influential people. And I wondered: How is it possible that a guy who molests and rapes dozens of girls and young women is still free? Now we know there are almost 1,000 victims. I focused on the crimes for which he had already been tried. I found about 80 victims, but only a handful wanted to talk to me.

Q. Was it a well-known case in Florida?

A. Yes, but theres a difference between knowing about something and taking it apart and really looking at it and examining how it happened. Thats what I did. I started with the new information that had come out thanks to several civil lawsuits. I decided to pore through everything meticulously. If he had been imprisoned for sex trafficking back then, as he deserved, we wouldnt be talking about this now.

Lauren Hersh, director of the NGO World Without Exploitation, kisses Danielle Bensky, a victim of Epstein, on the forehead during a vigil at the U.S. Congress last Tuesday. LUKE JOHNSON (EFE)

Q. Last week, the focus was on the victims. They presented themselves in Washington as a group of courageous women... What were they like when you first started talking to them?

A. Very different. After my articles were published, Epstein was arrested again. Many of the victims came together at the court hearings and became friends. A lot of these women were suffering their trauma, alone and in silence. They formed a group that they never wanted to be a part of. Virginia Giuffre [who died by suicide in April], whom I miss very much, got the ball rolling. At first, they were afraid to come forward and put their face out there as they do now; they feared how the public or their families would react. It takes a lot of courage to do what they have done.

Q. Some of them have said they know names, but are afraid to reveal them because they could be taken to court or their lives could be in danger

A. Some of those women were victims of trafficking and handed over to other men. So, of course, they know who they were trafficked to. There were other men involved. And the truth is, if you review some of these emails, you can put together who some of them were. I mean, there are cases where they are very careful in these emails not to spill the beans, but from the way they spoke Im not saying they committed a crime, but its clear that the lives of some of those men revolved around sex. That was Epsteins world.

Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, naked in a photo included in the notebook commemorating the 50th birthday of the pedophile. Congreso de Estados Unidos

Q. Reading some of those materials, such as Epsteins 50th birthday book, allows us to glimpse a world in which certain things were acceptable, a world that spoke openly of being with young girls without any remorse

A. Even if they werent directly involved, practically all of those people... Sure, there are exceptions, but they all knew what Epstein was doing, and by being complicit in some way, I think they emboldened him. They knew what he was doing and allowed it to happen in front of them. If any of those powerful people had said to him, You have to stop, Im going to report you, maybe it would have made a difference. Many of the documents that are coming out are from after he was already a known sex abuser of children. Think about that. And these people were still associating with him.

Larry Summers at the annual Allen and Co. Sun Valley Media Conference in Sun Valley, Idaho, in 2022. Brendan McDermid (REUTERS)

Q. What did they want? His money? His influence?

A. Its a whole range of things; different people wanted different things, and he was like their fixer. It wasnt just Democrats or Republicans. He didnt discriminate.

Q. Larry Summers is the latest high-profile figure whose reputation has been affected. The name of the former Harvard president, who was also a member of Bill Clintons Cabinet, appears in the documents.

A. Theyve gone after him, but hes not the only one. There were many people involved. For example, Steve Bannon, who has been proven to have tried to help Epstein repair his reputation after it became known that he was a pedophile. Lets remember that Bannon is one of the founders of the MAGA movement.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
In a worrying situation for the Indian Navy, Chinas People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) has deployed five to eight ships in the Indian Ocean Region, Vice Admiral K Swaminathan said. Turkey and China had openly backed Pakistan during Operation Sindoor. We somehow thought that it might be covert, but somewhat over and a little bit. But it was undeniably overt in very clear broad daylight," the Vice Admiral reportedly said.

ALSO READ | 'Operation Sindoor proved Pakistans nukes and rich bankers wont deter India from military action'

The Vice Admiral said that the Chinese Navy has already become the largest in the world and has added a fleet to the size of the Indian Navy in just the last decade. India is aware that PLAN is expanding like never before amidst Beijings conflict with Taiwan.

Vice Admiral Swaminathan noted that the commissioning of Fujian, the third aircraft carrier of the Chinese Navy, along with the demonstration of fifth- and sixth-generation fighters, is part of the Communist nation's global strategic narrative and signalling.

The first aircraft carrier designed and built completely by China, the warship features a flat flight deck with electromagnetic catapults (EMALS) for launching aircraft, allowing the fighter jets to be launched at higher speeds. Until now, only the US Navy had EMALS-equipped aircraft carriers.

ALSO READ | Understanding China's Fujian aircraft carrier threat: How will the warship change PLA Navy?

"China, also worryingly for us, continues to maintain five to eight ships in the Indian Ocean Region," the Vice Admiral was quoted as saying in PTI.

This group comprises warships, research vessels, satellite tracking vessels and fishing craft, the officer pointed out. He was speaking at a security conference organised here by the Bramha Research Foundation.

"China is not only becoming more assertive in the South China Sea but also in the Indian Ocean Region. Therefore, China will continue to be an enduring challenge," he reportedly added.

Swaminathan said the emergence of Turkey as a key sponsor, supporter and supplier (to Pakistan) is a new development that has to be watched very carefully.

"This was something we had always suspected and knew. The fact that it manifested a little more than we thought, in a way, was a new eye-opener," Swaminthan emphasised.
Operation Sindoor revealed new challenges and harsher realities including the collusion between Pakistan and China, Vice Admiral K Swaminathan said. Islamabad went shopping after the four-day conflict to ensure its armed forces remain armed to the teeth despite the financial woes faced by its citizens, and India cannot take it lightly, he said.

Operation Sindoor, which saw Indian armed forces target terror hubs in Pakistan and PoK, before an escalation resulted in the destruction of several of Pakistans air bases and installations, has been a significant inflection point and has established a new normal in New Delhi's relationship with Islamabad, the Navy officer said.

"Pakistan, of course, after the end of the operation, has been on an exercise to arm itself like never before. So that again should be a matter of concern for all of us in the subcontinent... The Pakistani Army is shopping all around the world for arms and ammunition with very scant regard to what else is happening in that country," the Vice Admiral was quoted as saying by PTI. He was speaking at a security conference organised here by the Bramha Research Foundation.

Elaborating on the Sino-Pak nexus, the Vice Admiral said, We somehow thought that it might be covert, but somewhat over and a little bit. But it was undeniably overt in very clear broad daylight."

The senior officer, who heads the crucial Western Naval Command headquartered in Mumbai, added that Operation Sindoor demonstrated how the Indian armed forces synergised and carried out very well-synchronised, well-coordinated, well-planned and well-executed strikes on chosen targets.

The success of these strikes demonstrated the collapse of regional assumptions that Pakistan's nuclear shield, besides covert and overt support from sponsors and financial backers, will deter India from carrying out conventional operations, he asserted.

The four-day operation demonstrated the multi-domain capability of the Indian armed forces, he told the conference.

Participating in a panel discussion at the event, Air Marshal Rakesh Sinha, Deputy Chief at the Integrated Defence Staff (Operations), said through Operation Sindoor, India displayed total synergy of all three servicesArmy, Navy and IAF.
Brigadier General Leland D. Blanchard II, at the press conference in which the identity of the National Guard attacker was revealed, this Thursday in Washington.

The shooting of two West Virginia National Guard members by an Afghan man in Washington, D.C., has reignited the debate over immigration policies and the role of the military deployed in some U.S. cities. Last Wednesday, shortly after 2:00 p.m., 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal opened fire on several National Guard members patrolling the streets of Washington. The attack occurred on the eve of Thanksgiving near the busy Farragut West Metro station, frequented by tourists and federal employees due to its proximity to the White House. Two National Guard soldiers were critically wounded: 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom died last night after being shot twice, once in the chest and once in the head; her comrade, 24-year-old Andrew Wolfe, is still fighting for his life after undergoing surgery.

Lakanwal was immediately arrested by police after an exchange of gunfire in which he was wounded. He is an Afghan refugee who entered the United States on September 8, 2021, as part of a program to repatriate personnel who had worked with U.S. authorities during the war against the Taliban. According to State Department data, Operation Allies Welcome  approved during the administration of Democratic president Joe Biden  helped some 76,000 Afghans travel to the United States to avoid falling into the hands of the Taliban, who seized control of the country after the chaotic withdrawal of U.S. troops. Many of them worked with the CIA or the U.S. military on high-risk security missions or assisted diplomats as translators and interpreters.

Most had to undergo rigorous vetting by U.S. security agencies to rule out concerns about their backgrounds and confirm they had no ties to the Taliban. This process has been one of the main points of criticism from President Donald Trump and his allies, who have repeatedly insisted that it allowed Taliban fighters to slip through. Although efforts were made to provide all necessary security guarantees, the investigation carried out by Republicans in Congress reveals some shortcomings due to the speed of the admissions process.

Refugees who passed the vetting process were granted a permit allowing them to reside in the United States for two years with temporary status. More than 40% of those admitted to the program were eligible for Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs) because they took great risks to defend the United States or were relatives of those who did, the Department of Homeland Security explained to several U.S. media outlets on Thursday.

Upon arriving in the United States, Lakanwal settled in Bellingham, a small town north of Seattle, where he lived with his wife and five children. After his two-year temporary visa expired, he applied for permanent asylum in December 2024. His request was approved on April 23 of this year, three months after Trump took office, according to State Department sources consulted by CNN.

Trump and his team moved swiftly on Wednesday after learning the identity of the attacker who targeted the members of the National Guard. They quickly criticized the Biden administration for allowing Lakanwal into the country and used the case to push for tougher immigration policies. They ordered a suspension of the review of Afghan immigration procedures and a reassessment of the permits of those already living in the United States. According to AP, this raises the possibility that the settlement rights of Afghan allies who worked with U.S. forces could be restricted.

[Lakanwal] was flown in by the Biden administration in September 2021 on those infamous flights that everybody was talking about, Trump said Wednesday night in an extraordinary, pre-recorded address following the shooting in the nations capital. Nobody knew who was coming in, nobody knew anything about it. His status was extended under legislation signed by President Biden, a disastrous president, the worst in the history of our country, he added before a shocked nation on the eve of Thanksgiving, one of the most cherished holidays for families.

This attack highlights the fundamental national security threat facing our nation. Twenty million unknown and unvetted foreigners from all over the world, from countries that you dont want to even know about. No country can tolerate such a risk to our very survival, the Republican president added during his speech, exaggerating the figures.

After the shooting, the government stopped processing all immigration applications from Afghan citizens pending further review of security and vetting protocols, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said on X. We must now reexamine every single alien whos entered our country from Afghanistan under Biden and we must take all necessary measures to ensure the removal of any alien from any country who does not belong here or add benefit to our country, Trump added in the video recorded Wednesday.

Some supporters of the repatriation process warned on Thursday of the risks now faced by those who escaped the Taliban. I dont want people to leverage this tragedy into a political ploy, said Shawn VanDiver, president of #AfghanEvac. We arent going to be tricked. One mans lunatic behavior mustnt be used to vilify a whole community, especially one that stood by us for so long, he wrote on social media.

The immigration policy promoted by Trump is one of the most controversial issues at the start of his second term in the White House. He has ordered the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to pursue and deport undocumented immigrants. These enforcement actions have sparked large protests in cities such as Los Angeles, Chicago, and Boston. So far this year, ICE has participated in more than 60,000 immigrant arrests. In addition, Trump has ordered a review of the cases of 200,000 refugees admitted during Bidens term and is ending the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) granted to political refugees, affecting tens of thousands of people from Venezuela, South Sudan, Syria, Afghanistan, and other countries.

Trump also ordered a comprehensive review of green card holders from high-risk countries on Thursday, according to a post on X by Joseph Edlow, head of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. At the direction of @POTUS, I have directed a full scale, rigorous reexamination of every Green Card for every alien from every country of concern, he wrote on the social network.

Trump went one step further in a post on his Truth Social platform on Thursday: I will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the U.S. system to fully recover, terminate all of the millions of Biden illegal admissions.

The National Guard on the streets

The other controversial issue is the presence of National Guard troops on the streets of some U.S. cities, coincidentally all governed by Democrats.

In early August, Trump issued an order to deploy approximately 2,600 National Guard troops to Washington, D.C., in response to what he described as a crime emergency. The National Guard is a military force under the command of the governors of each of the 50 states. Its members are reservists  they are volunteers who work or study and are only deployed in specific situations, such as natural disasters or large-scale civil unrest.

Soldiers typically patrol in small groups. They walk the streets and public spaces, especially near subway stations. The National Guards role is to deter crime, and while its members cannot make arrests, they have assisted in immigration raids ordered by the White House.

Trump boasts that there is less crime on the streets of Washington, D.C. after the deployment of troops, contrary to official statistics from the citys police department.

The deployment of these troops has drawn criticism from Democrats and numerous federal officials in the capital. Washingtons Attorney General Brian Schwalb sued the Trump administration over the deployment, according to the Associated Press. A federal judge ordered the troops to withdraw and the mission to be shut down. He has given the government until December 11 to comply with the order and to appeal the decision.

Some army officials have also expressed concern about the risk the deployment could pose to troops, according to the AP. It presents an opportunity for criminals, violent extremists, issue motivated groups and lone actors to advance their interests, given the prominence of locality, and expected media coverage for the mission, an internal memo states.

Despite criticism over the deployment of troops in cities, Trump ordered an additional 500 National Guard troops to Washington on Wednesday, following the shooting. The citys mayor, Muriel Bowser, expressed her opposition to the deployment. These young people should be at home in West Virginia with their families, she stated.

In a video recorded on Wednesday, the Republican president also referred to the Somali community in Minnesota  where nearly 90,000 Somalis live, the largest such community in the country  even though they had nothing to do with the incident: An example is Minnesota, where hundreds of thousands of Somalians are ripping off our country and ripping apart that once great state. Billions of dollars are lost and gangs of Somalians come from a country that doesnt even have a government. No laws, no water, no military, no nothing, as their representatives in our country preach to us about our Constitution and how our country is no good.

Trumps words reflect the White House strategy of toughening immigration policies on any pretext, without sufficient justification.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
India, on Friday, sealed a Rs 7,995 crore deal with the US as part of a "follow-on support" package for the Indian Navy's fleet of 24 Seahawk helicopters for five years.

The contract was signed despite the continued strain between the two countries after US President Donald Trump slapped 50 per cent tariffs on Indian goods in late August.

The defence ministry said it signed letters of offer and acceptance (LOAs) with the US for sustainment support of the MH60R helicopter fleet through follow-on support and supply for five years at an approximate value of Rs 7,995 crore.

MH-60R, manufactured by Lockheed Martin Corporation, is an all-weather helicopter designed to support multiple missions with state-of-the-art avionics and sensors.

The LOAs were inked under the foreign military sales programme of the US.

India had signed an agreement with the US for the procurement of 24 MH-60RS in February 2020. The MH-60R Seahawk is a maritime variant of the Blackhawk helicopter.

The sustainment support is a comprehensive package which includes provisioning of spares, support equipment, product support, training and technical support, repair and replenishment of components, according to the defence ministry.

ALSO READ: An Army with more women: President Droupadi Murmu bats for inclusive culture

It also provides for the setting up of intermediate-level component repairs and periodic maintenance inspection facilities in India for the choppers.

"In-country development of these facilities will ensure capability build-up in the long run and reduced dependence on the US government, thus aligning with the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat," the ministry said.

"This would further lead to indigenous product and services development through MSMEs (ministry of micro, small & medium enterprises) and other Indian firms," it said in a statement.

The defence ministry said sustainment support would significantly enhance the operational availability and maintainability of the MH-60R helicopters, which also have anti-submarine warfare capability.

"In addition, the support would enable the operation of these helicopters from dispersed locations as well as ships, ensuring optimal performance during all their primary and secondary missions," it said.

The first three MH-60R helicopters were delivered to India in 2021.
CLAIM:

An Instagram post by Dr Yokesh Arul claims that winter temperatures sharply raise heart attack risk by causing blood vessels to constrict, blood to thicken, and the hearts workload to increase, especially in people with diabetes, hypertension and high cholesterol.

FACT:

Experts agree that cold weather can raise blood pressure and strain the heart through vasoconstriction, particularly in people with existing heart conditions, but they note that claims of blood 'thickening' to dangerous levels are overstated. Evidence shows the increased risk is real but mainly affects those with underlying cardiovascular issues, not healthy individuals.

As the winter months roll by, a common concern a lot of people have is how the cold temperatures affect their health. A concern we come across online regularly is about the alleged increased susceptibility to heart attacks during cold months. This year too, a widely shared Instagram reel by Dr Yokesh Arul, who says he is a doctor and health content creator, asks viewers to take care of their parents' health, as winter temperatures significantly increase the risk of heart attacks. He warns that the risk is especially high for people with diabetes, hypertension and high cholesterol.

In the post  which has drawn over 10,000 interactions and multiple user endorsements  he claims that exposure to cold weather causes blood vessels to constrict, blood to thicken, and the hearts workload to rise, making individuals more susceptible to cardiac events.

In his caption, Arul urges people to keep parents warm, insulated, consistent on medicines, and avoid heavy oily snacks this season, framing this as a necessary precaution against the heightened winter risk. The post suggests that these temperature-driven physiological changes can increase susceptibility to heart attacks, particularly among older adults and those with underlying lifestyle diseases.

Though the video does not cite any scientific study, it presents the mechanism  vasoconstriction, increased blood viscosity and elevated cardiac workload  as an established fact, and asserts that cold exposure itself is a seasonal cardiac risk factor. The claim has gained traction among followers, reflected in numerous comments thanking him for awareness, sharing personal concerns, and asking further medical questions.

What are the facts?

First Check has repeatedly investigated such claims related to whether heart attacks are more prevalent on certain days of the week, particular time of the day, or certain seasons. In fact, research from the United States had found that more people die of heart attacks during the Christmas-New Year holiday season, or the last two weeks of December, which are the winter months.

Cardiac mortality for individuals who are dead on arrival, die in the emergency department, or die as outpatients peaks at Christmas and again at New Years, according to the study. However, the researchers claimed that there are multiple explanations for this association, including the possibility that holiday-induced delays in seeking treatment play a role in producing the twin holiday spikes.

In India, medical experts broadly support the view that the risk of heart attacks do increase during winter. In fact, multiple leading hospitals in India have also spoken of spikes in heart attacks during winter months. "The chances of heart attacks go up by nearly 33 per cent during winter," Dr Bipin Kumar Dubey, the HOD-Cardiology & Principal Director  Interventional Cardiology at Max Hospital in Dwarka, New Delhi, wrote.

"Further, patients afflicted with angina need to be particularly careful as the cold weather can cause coronary artery spasms, leading to heart attack. Certain individuals are at a higher risk of getting a heart attack during cold weather, including elderly people, those who have had a prior history of heart attacks, coronary heart diseases, heart failure, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking and a sedentary lifestyle," they added.

Bangalore-based Kauvery Hospital has also said that "the risk of heart disease in winter rises substantially due to the above factors", which include higher blood pressure owing to lower temperatures, cold-induced plaque ruptures, exertion and seasonal infections.

The Medanta Medical Team reiterates these claims and says that this is because of "several factors, including cold weather, changes in air pressure, and lack of physical activity." "Cold weather can constrict blood vessels, making the heart work harder and increasing the risk of heart-related problems," it added.

However, experts also caution against overstating some of the physiological effects circulating on social media. There are also other factors which affect blood pressure, such as lack of Vitamin D and a more sedentary lifestyle that sets in during the winter months. We see people go out less, get less amount of sun exposure, Dr Suneela Garg, a Community Medicine professional, had told us earlier. The pollution also goes up during these months, leading to people not stepping outside. So, all these factors come together to bring about an increase in blood pressure.

Dr Shiv Kumar Choudhary, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeon at Fortis Hospital, New Delhi, had also said that while cold weather can indeed trigger blood vessel constriction - the mechanism known as vasoconstriction - it is inaccurate to suggest that blood becomes thicker to the point of causing sudden cardiac events in otherwise healthy people.

Cold weather can increase the risk of heart attacks, particularly in people with pre-existing heart conditions, because of vessel constriction and changes in circulation. However, for healthy individuals, these risks are minimal, he said.

Research supports this nuanced view. A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology reported that exposure to cold temperatures can raise blood pressure and increase cardiovascular strain, but the effect is significantly more pronounced in people with pre-existing heart disease.

This story is done in collaboration with First Check, which is the health journalism vertical of DataLEADS.
Over the past few years, I have noticed a meaningful shift in how leaders think about their roles. Conversations today, whether in boardrooms or at industry gatherings, are more reflective and more human.

There is a growing recognition that leadership is not just about delivering outcomes, but about sustaining the clarity and emotional balance needed to guide teams through a fast-changing world.

However, amidst all this, many leaders now quietly acknowledge that prolonged decision-fatigue, constant availability, and the weight of responsibility can take a gradual toll. This often shows up as sleep disturbances, restlessness, or emotional weariness before one even realises it.

Modern workplace culture suggests that a leader is only valuable if they can carry this load without buckling under any strain. As a result, leaders often stop themselves from getting help as they believe it is their moral duty to stand firm in every situation.

They are reluctant to show their vulnerability, as stress, exhaustion, or burnout could indicate professional weakness or inadequacy. This deep-seated fear and shame prevent them from seeking the support they need. This hidden burden, coupled with the expectation to be strong at all times, is causing harm to their well-being.

Corporate leaders, too, need a supportive, professional space to talk their stress out.

Early in ones career, there is a certain ease that comes from being surrounded by peers who share the same challenges, whom one can lean on. There is a natural safety net built by mentors in these early years that allows one to experiment and learn and thereby commit errors in the process.

But as leaders rise through the organisational hierarchy, that support system naturally narrows. With each step upward, the room for doubt gets smaller, expectations get sharper, and the cost of any misstep feels higher. The higher the visibility, the smaller the space to admit struggle. Along with visibility, success also brings novel challenges: fewer people to confide in, fewer safe spaces for honesty, and an unspoken expectation that leaders must stay composed, even when the weight becomes overwhelming. If reaching the summit is difficult, staying there is even harder.

The hidden cost of the unbreakable executive

The leadership pressure cooker has fundamentally transformed. Todays stressors are not just about hitting financial targets; they are multi-dimensional, faster, and much more invasive. We see the rise of two main, connected challenges shaping modern executive stress: The Velocity Challenge and The Scrutiny Factor.

The Velocity Challenge involves a shift, which is the erosion of boundaries caused by technology. Pre-digital leadership allowed for a natural recovery period between workdays. Smartphones, instant messaging, and global operations mean a crisis in Tokyo at 3 AM is instantly visible in Bengaluru.

The concept of theweekend or holiday has become a myth, replaced by the expectation of constant availability. This lack of recovery leads directly to chronic mental fatigue and burnout. Rapid digital transformation and market disruption demand decisions faster than ever, often with incomplete or contradictory data. This relentless need for immediate, high-stakes judgment results in chronic decision fatigue and deep anxiety over potential errors.

Amplified Scrutiny Factor involves relentless scrutiny that corporate leaders are put through  the higher one climbs, the more public their life becomes. This scrutiny often extends beyond the professional realm, adding stress to family relationships and personal time, compounding the sense of isolation often referred to as being lonely at the top. That kind of loneliness eventually creates a void and disconnect.

Another often-overlooked element is the pressure created by lifestyle escalation. As professionals grow, so do their financial commitments, higher standards of living, social expectations, and the pressure to keep up in an increasingly consumer-driven society.

For many leaders, failure does not just threaten their professional identity; it threatens the life they have worked hard to build. This economic anxiety intensifies the emotional weight they carry, making it even harder to step back, slow down, or show vulnerability.

Compounding this is the growing sense of dispensability in modern workplaces. As trust declines and loyalty becomes increasingly transactional, even senior leaders feel the insecurity of being easily replaceable. This erosion of trust amplifies stress because when leaders dont feel secure, they suppress vulnerability even more. The silent message becomesstay strong, stay silent, stay indispensable. But this very silence widens the emotional distance within organisations.

Permission to power down

To combat such concerns, leaders should visibly take their designated holidays, disconnect from emails at the end of their day at a reasonable hour, and speak about practices (like mindfulness or exercise) that aid their well-being. When the Chief Executive of a firm publicly talks of indulging in a digital detox weekend, it grants permission to the entire organisation to do the same.

Rather than viewing stress disclosure as a weakness, smart organisations could frame it as a badge of courage. A leader who transparently shares that they are responsibly managing a period of high pressure teaches the team that prioritising ones health is a non-negotiable part of professional life.

Vulnerability is the new strength

The current presupposition that a leader must be an emotionally indestructible superhero at all times is not a foundation for overall success; it is a structural flaw that everyone has quietly accepted. By demanding the impossible, organisations are not forging iron leaders; they are quietly breaking resilient humans.

Sustainable leadership is not about having indestructible strength; it is about building an impeccable support structure. The future of executive health, and by extension, the health of the businesses they lead, depends on replacing the old culture of shame with a new culture of safety. The most crucial decision a senior leader can make is not in boardroom discussions, but in visibly choosing their own well-being, permitting everyone else to do the same. When leaders embrace vulnerability as a form of courage, their well-being becomes a strategic asset, one that fuels clarity, creativity, and long-term organisational strength. It is time organisations retire the culture of shame.

Less armour, more authenticity

Leadership was never meant to be a test of how much strain one can silently endure. It is a collective responsibility shaped by human connection, emotional honesty, and the willingness to recognise that even those at the top need room to breathe. When leaders give themselves permission to pause, reflect, and seek support, they create a culture where everyone feels safer doing the same.

What is worth pondering is that vulnerability is far closer to authenticity than it is to bravado. At a time when we are transitioning from traditional work patterns to modern, rapidly evolving ways of working, shaped by technological acceleration and shifting social expectations, the merits of authentic leadership deserve renewed attention.

The author is Country Head  Brand and Marketing at Narayana Health.
The complainant, who accused former Youth Congress state president and suspended MLA Rahul Mamkoottathil of sexual assault and criminal intimidation, has recorded her secret statement before the Neyyattinkara Judicial First Class Magistrate.

A day earlier, she submitted a formal complaint to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, based on which Kerala Police registered a fresh case against the MLA. He has been charged under BNS 64 (rape), BNS 89 (forced abortion without the womans consent), BNS 115 (voluntarily causing hurt), BNS 351 (criminal intimidation), and Section 66C of the IT Act (identity theft and misuse of digital data). These include non-bailable offenses that carry punishments ranging from 10 years to life imprisonment.

Police believe the offenses took place across at least three locations. The first assault allegedly occurred in March. The woman was assaulted twice at a flat in Thiruvananthapuram and once at a flat in Palakkad. On May 30, he allegedly gave her the pills used to terminate the pregnancy. The pills were delivered by Rahuls friend Joby. She was made to consume them, and Rahul confirmed over a video call that she had taken them. The FIR also states that Rahul recorded nude visuals after the assault and used them to threaten her. Rahul is currently absconding, and the police have issued a lookout circular.

With Kerala headed to local body polls on December 9 and 11, multiple Congress leaders allege that the timing of the complaint is politically motivated. Some of them pointed to the complainants decision to approach the chief minister directly, while others pointed out that the move was orchestrated to divert attention from the Sabarimala gold-theft row.

Congress leaderRamesh Chennithala said he stands by his earlier position and that the law should take its course. He pointed out that while two senior CPI(M)-affiliated leaders were arrested and jailed in the Sabarimala gold-theft case without any action from the CPI(M), the Congress acted against Rahul the moment allegations surfaced. The party will not extend any support to Rahul, he said.

There are also suspicions within the Congress that the Palakkad BJPs interests are also reflected in the timing of the complaint. Palakkad municipality is currently ruled by the BJP, and Rahul had started door-to-door campaigns for several wards in Palakkad municipality.

Palakkad DCC president A. Thankappan questioned why the complainant waited until now. Why didnt she file a complaint for three months? he asked, noting that the controversy first surfaced in August. He also alleged that the complaint may be intended to distract from the Sabarimala gold-smuggling case or to deflect anti-incumbency ahead of the elections. However, Thankappan insists the Congress has maintained a consistent distance from the suspended MLA.

Former KPCC president K. Muraleedharan added that the Congress will intensify its attack on the LDF government over the Sabarimala issue in the wake of these developments, while senior leader Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan echoed UDF convenor Adoor Prakash's statement that controversies of this nature routinely surface before elections.

However, some Congress leaders believe Mamkoottathils own conduct after his suspension invited the present episode. Kasargod MP Rajmohan Unnithan said Rahul challenged both the complainant and the media and used PR machinery to attack even Congress leaders, and that the party acted only after finding merit in the complaint. He noted that after being removed from the Parliamentary Party, Rahul continued to appear in the Assembly and openly challenged the party.

Notably, a section within the Congress itself was clearly unhappy with the way Mamkoottathil resumed political activity with a business-as-usual attitude. And Youth Congress leader Sajana B. Sajan recently submitted a complaint to the AICC against Mamkootathil.

Meanwhile, Mamkoottathil has submitted his petition for anticipatory bail in which he argues that the victim did not file the complaint with her local police jurisdiction but filed it before the chief minister of Kerala, which demonstrates political interest. In the anticipatory bail petition, the young MLA maintains that the relationship between him and the complainant was consensual. He also maintains that the victim herself took the tablet for a miscarriage.

Mamkootathil also maintains that the victim is a married woman cohabiting with her husband, continuing a valid marriage. Even if the victim is pregnant, the liability is on her husband as said in section 116 of BSA. Another argument in the petition is that the complainant has been working with a political-party backed channel and that this channel asked her to file a complaint against the young MLA.

He too questioned the timing of the case, saying, During the election time, the government is facing serious allegations on Sabarimal gold theft and added that In order to turn the public attention, this controversy was made with the help of BJP.
As the tussle for power escalates in Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah revealed on Friday that the Congress high command indeed advised him to discuss the issue with Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar. Siddaramaiah's revelations have only made the tiff even murkier.

Talking to reporters, Siddaramaiah said, "High command told D.K. Shivakumar that we should meet and discuss. But my stand is, whatever high command says, I will go by it," ANI reported. Siddaramaiah's comments come on a day when the two tall leaders of the Karnataka Congress were seen together after a long time at a public event.

Putting the leadership in a fix, leaders from both factions have been lobbying the Congress high command for the past few days. Recently, when Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge visited the state, Siddaramaiah had a closed-door meeting with the leader.

Earlier in the day, Karnataka Congress chief Shivakumar said they would act "as per the guidance" of the high command. "Delhi will always guide us. When they call me, party leaders and CM, we will go there," Shivakumar said. The Congress leader also said party workers may be eager, but he is in no hurry to become the chief minister.

Meanwhile, senior Congress leader from Karnataka, M. Veerappa Moily, said the party's high command must intervene and resolve the issue soon. "Silence is disastrous. I don't think this is the time to remain silent, and Congress's high command needs to step forward and say 'Don't continue this kind of lobbying'.

Moily said the power-sharing formula has never helped Congress, and if the party is proceeding with the idea, "they must implement it without hesitation."
Amid a raging tussle over who would be the next chief minister of Karnataka, Congress leaders Siddaramaiah and D.K. Shivakumar shared a stage together after a long time in Bengaluru. The heads of the ruling Congress government came together to celebrate the golden jubilee of the Integrated Child Development Scheme.

"Today, I participated alongside Chief Minister Shri Siddaramaiah in the Golden Jubilee programme of the Integrated Child Development Scheme, organized by the Department of Women and Child Development as well as Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities and Senior Citizens, held at the Bangalore Palace Grounds," Shivakumar tweeted after the event.

"Today marks the golden jubilee celebration of the establishment of anganwadi centres, one of the many people-centric programmes introduced by Indira Gandhi, the greatest strength of this country," he added.

While the Shivakumar camp has been making frequent trips to the national capital to lobby the Congress high command, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has maintained he would serve as the head of the government for the full five-year term. Reportedly, after Congress won the 2023 assembly elections, the high command reportedly worked out a power-sharing formula between the stalwarts of Karnataka Congress, with each leader serving as chief minister for 2.5 years.

Though he did not spell out the details, Congress leader Shivakumar recently revealed there indeed was a "secret deal". Talking to presspersons after the event, Shivakumar said he would visit Delhi if the high command called him and act as per the high command's guidance.

"I will definitely go to Delhi. It is our temple. Congress has a long history, and Delhi will always guide us. When they call me, party leaders and CM, we will go there," the Karnataka Congress chief said. "I don't want anything; my party will make the decision," he added.
With the December 4 deadline for the month-long SIR process in West Bengal approaching, the Election Commission of India is sending out a strong message that it will not be cowed down by intimidation tactics to halt the electoral revision process.

The office of West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Manoj Agarwal will be shifted to a different and more secure location in wake of the breach in security on Monday and Tuesday where protesting Booth Level Officers (BLOs) attempted to break the locks of the gate and barge into the premises. The order came from ECI on Friday, two days after the apex polling body wrote to Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Pandey to ensure strict security of the CEO and other senior officials. This included security for senior officials from their residence to the office.

Based on recent incidents relating to breach of security at the office of CEO WB, ECI has directed the office to be shifted to a security appropriate location. ECI has also directed Kolkata Police Commissioner to ensure complete security of the existing as well as the new office of CEO WB, said a senior official from the state EC.

#WATCH | Delhi | TMC delegation reaches the Election Commission for a meeting over the SIR in West Bengal pic.twitter.com/KdMkg5qYlR  ANI (@ANI) November 28, 2025

In addition to this, ECI has also directed all District Electoral Officers (DEO) to ensure new polling stations in slums, high rise buildings and gated residential colonies as is being done across India based on ECI instructions. This was a request by many housing complexes to assist citizens in the SIR process.

ECI also took the decision on Friday to appoint retired IAS officer Subrata Gupta as Special Roll Observer to overseas smooth functioning of the SIR process in West Bengal.

In an attempt to increase communication between polling parties to address the concerns on SIR, West Bengal CEO has said that political parties can seek an appointment with Agarwal and members in the delegation also need to be mentioned in advance as well.

A 10-member delegation of MPs from Trinamool Congress (TMC) met Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar on Friday in Delhi to address concerns over SIR, including deaths reported of citizens fearing the process and BLOs who were under tremendous pressure in West Bengal.

ECI told the AITC delegation that the preparation of electoral rolls as well as the elections are held in a fully transparent manner as per the Constitution and electoral law. It added that the state government should disburse the enhanced honorarium for BLOs and EROs as approved by the ECI.

The ECI pointed out that while political rhetoric is their prerogative, they should refrain from spreading misinformation related to the election procedures.
Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit India next week for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summithis first visit since the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022.

At the heart of the agenda for Putin's visit from December 4-5 will be the strategic relationship between the two nations. New Delhi and Moscow are trying to find ways to protect this bond amid Donald Trump's punitive tariffs, which threaten to drive a wedge between the two.

This follows an invitation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier this year.

 On December 4-5, President #Putin will pay a state visit to India at the invitation of Prime Minister @narendramodi.



This visit carries special importance, offering an opportunity to review the entire #RussiaIndia special & privileged strategic partnership.#DruzhbaDosti pic.twitter.com/zb0qICLpDp  MFA Russia  (@mfa_russia) November 28, 2025

"[The two sides are set to] review progress in bilateral relations, set the vision for strengthening the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership and exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest," the Ministry of External Affairs said on Friday.

This time, defence agreements and Russian oil purchases are expected to dominate the agenda.

Specifically, the fact that New Delhi seems to be bowing to the pressure of the 50 per cent export tariffs on India by negotiating a potential deal to cut Russian oil imports will likely see Moscow miffed, a Lowy Institute report pointed out.

Russia has earlier tried to nudge India towards continuing to buy its energy if the possible liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) import deal with the US costs the same.

"[Indians] will never allow themselves to be humiliated by anyone," Putin had said at the international Valdai discussion forum at Sochi in October this year.

In that regard, the think tank report added that defence agreements will be crucial in India's attempts at placating Russia, should it choose to go forward on the LPG deal.

Defence costs and the availability of spare parts have always been an important reason behind India's dependence on Russian defence systems, especially the S-400 long-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) system, aka Sudarshan Chakra.

The S-400 system also proved its worth for India during Operation Sindoor and the 88-hour conflict with Pakistan that followed it.

As a result, despite the last two of the five S-400 squadronsthat India ordered in 2018not delivered due to the Russia-Ukraine war, India has considered adding more S-400s to its wishlist, an ANI report had said in October.

ALSO READ | After Operation Sindoor, India plans massive Rs 10,000 crore S-400 missile buy from Russia: Report

Russias offer of manufacturing fifth-generation Su-57 stealth fighters in India is also a huge pull, as it aids the 'Make in India' initiative, and keeps the defence bond with Moscow alive.

With the challenges posed by the Trump administration, all eyes are on India to see how much of its strategic autonomy it can maintain without the US by its side, as it slowly looks at opportunities from other nations too.
The appointment of former Chief Justice of the Odisha High Court and Senior Supreme Court Advocate Justice S. Muralidhar as the Chair of the United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry (CoI) on the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT), including East Jerusalem and Israel, marks a significant moment not just internationally, but for Indias global standing in human rights leadership.

Justice Muralidhar now helms a three-member Commission appointed by the UN Human Rights Council (HRC), succeeding distinguished Brazilian expert Paulo Sergio Pinheiro.

As Chair, he will oversee investigations, direct fact-finding missions, evaluate evidence of violations, and shape the Commissions final reports to the UNHRC and General Assembly. His leadership will be crucial in lending credibility to the inquiry, ensuring victims voices are heard, and strengthening the global rule-of-law framework.

Justice Muralidhar will play a decisive role in shaping narratives around proportionality, state responsibility, and civilian protection in conflict zones. His ability to synthesise complex legal, humanitarian and factual material will determine how the international community interprets recent events in Gaza and the West Bank, and what accountability mechanisms may follow.

Why Dr. Muralidhar?

Justice Dr. Muralidhars career is marked by a series of landmark judgments that established him as one of Indias most rights-conscious and independent judges. In the 2002 Gujarat riots cases, as a lawyer, he played a pivotal role in securing convictions, including in the Best Bakery case, strengthening Indias jurisprudence on command responsibility and witness protection.

On the Delhi High Court bench, he authored the crucial 2018 judgment, convicting 16 policemen in the 1987 Hashimpura massacre, calling it a targeted killing of Muslims and underscoring the states duty to ensure justice in communal violence cases.

During the 2020 Delhi riots, Justice Muralidhar ordered urgent medical attention for victims and questioned police inaction, hours before being transferred. He also delivered significant rulings on police reforms, environmental accountability, and LGBTQ+ rights, consistently foregrounding constitutional morality and the protection of the vulnerable.

Internationally, his appointment signals trust in Indias judicial tradition of balancing rights, accountability, and humanitarian concerns.

Why this matters for India

India rarely gets a leadership position in UN mechanisms scrutinising armed conflicts and humanitarian crises. Justice Muralidhars appointment places an Indian jurist at the helm of a body whose findings shape global diplomatic debates from sanctions to arms embargoes. This enhances Indias image as a nation capable of providing principled, rights-based global leadership.

India has deep strategic, economic, and diaspora-linked interests in both Israel and the Arab world. The government has maintained a calibrated position on Gaza, condemning terrorism while expressing concern over humanitarian suffering. Having an Indian as Chair of the CoI doesnt alter Indias official position, but it elevates Indias role in shaping humanitarian discourse without compromising national diplomatic interests.

Indian judges and lawyers have historically been under represented in high-level UN investigative mechanisms. Justice Muralidhars elevation is a reminder of the depth of Indian legal expertise and strengthens the case for involving more Indian legal minds in international adjudicatory and inquiry bodies.
The noose has tightened around Al Falah founder-chairman Jawad Ahmed Siddiqui after a Enforcement Directorate (ED) probe found that he allegedly used the names of five deceased people to forge papers and buy land in Delhi.

Tarbia Education Foundation, which is owned by Siddiqui, forged General Power of Attorney (GPA) to acquire land parcels in Delhi. Many of these were executed dozens of years after the landowners died.

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

The first fraud emerged when a land in Delhi's Madanpur Khadar was found to be sold to Tarbia using forged papers. The GPA of several co-owners was transferred to a single person, identified as one Vinod Kumar. Though the document was dated January 7, 2004, some of these owners were dead for years before the GPA was executed.

These included Nathu who died in January 1, 1972, Harbans Singh who died in April 27, 1991, Harkesh who died in June 12, 1993, Shiv Dayal who died in January 22, 1998 and Jay Ram who died in October 15, 1998. However, their signatures and thumb impressions were given in the 2004 document. It was later sold to Tarbia on June 27, 2013.

"The signatures and thumb impressions of the deceased are forged. The land was transferred on the basis of forged GPA and the ultimate beneficiary is Tarbia Education Foundation, which purchased the land on the basis of forged GPA by sellers, the official said.

He was initially arrested for money laundering and booked under Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002 Section 19 on November 18 after the ED conducted raids in 18 locations.

This was based on FIRs lodged by the Delhi Police Crime Branch over allegations that Al Falah University in Dhauj, Faridabad, falsely claimed that it has NAAC accreditation and UGC recognition.

ED is investigating if the money was diverted to fund terror activities, including the Faridabad module, which is behind the Delhi blast on November 10. The agency has recovered more than Rs 48 lakh in cash as well as documents and digital devices.
Fears of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) have prompted illegal Bangladeshi immigrants to queue up at the Indo-Bangladesh border to go back.

I heard they will not keep Bangladeshis. Modi wont keep us here. He will send us to jail. We do not have documents. We did not try to get documents, as I do not have parents, said Kohinoor Bibi, a 50-year-old widow waiting at the Hakimpur checkpost in North 24 Parganas district for the Border Security Force(BSF) to be sent back to Bangladesh along with others.

Kohinoor had come with her 18-year-old son to Dakhineshwar, on the outskirts of Kolkata, for medical treatment after developing diabetes and a damaged kidney.

We were told that we would receive good treatment from government doctors, which is why we are here. Now we have been told that Bangladeshis would not be allowed to stay. Hence, we are going back. We heard that we would be put into jail for two years, and asked to pay a fine, said Kohinoors 18-year-old son Alamin Gazi, who worked as a labourer in Dakhineshwar for the last 3 years and is now hoping to get work in his hometown of Shyamnagar in Bangladesh.

We are living in fear of being put in jail; we are poor people. Why should we stay back? said Gazi.

Suban Mollah is another illegal Bangladeshi immigrant who has been living in India for 5 years in Bangalore, Punjab, Delhi and Kolkata, working odd jobs. I have Bangladeshi documents and no Indian documents. I have sinned by coming here illegally, and I will not do it again. I love my country, I do not know about SIR, Mollah said.

60-year-old Rubia came to Chitpur in Kolkata two years ago after her husbands death and worked as a scrap dealer. I am returning as they are not keeping Bangladeshi Muslims. After Sheikh Hasina fled from Bangladesh and came to India, I thought I could also come away here, said Rubia.

Several such stories are emerging of illegal Bangladeshis being forced to go back after the SIR exercise was announced by the Election Commission of India (ECI). 12 states and union territories are undergoing the electoral revision exercise, including poll-bound West Bengal.

Montu Mondol, who is a local Indian resident living at Hakimpur check post at the bus stand and drives an auto rickshaw, says that as the process to complete SIR draws closer, more people are seen at the border.

Before, there was no one at the check post, but ever since the SIR was announced on October 28th, people have been coming here as they fear they will be jailed if they do not cross the border now. Yesterday, a 3-year-old child fell ill waiting here, and we villagers gave the child food, tea and medicines, said Mondol.

The BSF checks the documents of Bangladeshis and then sends them across the border. BSF and villagers together help with food and water. As the days go by, more and more Bangladeshis are racing against time to flee from the SIR fears lurking within India.
In a big decision on Thursday, the Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra governments decided to stop the use of Aadhaar cards as the only proof of one's date of birth, in line with central government guidelines.

"The Aadhaar card is no longer valid as a birth certificate," read a notification from Amit Singh Bansal, Special Secretary of Uttar Pradesh's Planning Department, a Times of India report said.

"No birth certificate is attached to the Aadhaar card; therefore, it cannot be considered a birth certificate," the notification added.

Maharashtra's revenue minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule made a similar announcement on Thursday, pointing out more than ten districts in the state where fake birth certificates were being used. This is reportedly part of a larger drive from the Centre to curb the influx of illegal immigrants.

Bawankule explained that following a high-level meeting with Additional Chief Secretaries of the Home and Revenue departments on Thursday, the Revenue department had issued a 16-point verification guideline for various state-level officials tasked with verifying identity proofs.

He added that all birth certificates made only using the Aadhaar card after the Births and Deaths Registration (Amendment) Act 2023, would be cancelled.

The revenue minister has also warned that if any discrepancy is found between the information provided in the birth certificate application and that in the Aadhaar card, an FIR will be filed.

Those who fail to submit their original birth certificates or who cannot be traced will also be declared fugitives.

This follows an earlier Supreme Court ruling that allowed the Aadhaar to be used as a proof of identity during inclusion in the Bihar electoral roll.

Accepting a demand from the Opposition, the apex court had directed the Election Commission to accept Aadhaar along with the 11 other documents already permitted under the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process.

With Uttar Pradesh also among the 12 states and union territories that are undergoing the SIR process, CM Yogi Adityanath had directed last week that temporary detention centres would be established in each district to detain infiltrators, in line with the crackdown on illegal immigration.

Notably, Uttar Pradesh shares an open border with Nepal, which allows unrestricted two-way movement only for citizens of both countries, while individuals of other nationalities are checked.
Pope Leo XIV began his first overseas journey as pontiff with a six-day visit to Turkey and Lebanon, starting Thursday. The trip, planned originally by his predecessor Pope Francis, quickly came to be seen as Leos own diplomatic debut, giving an introduction to the character and priorities of the new papacy.

Speaking in Ankara, he said the world was witnessing a surge in conflicts that are driven by economic pressure and military ambition. Echoing Franciss earlier assessment of a third world war emerging in fragments across different regions, he insisted that humanity faced a decisive moment. Peace, he argued, depended on renewed willingness to build trust and resist the logic of domination.

A notable thread running through Leos remarks was the image of the bridge. The official logo for the journey, featuring a bridge over the Dardanelles Strait, became a recurring symbol in his speeches. Turkey enjoys a unique geographical position connecting East and West and is a country where cultures, religions and sensibilities intersect. Leo has stressed that diversity was Turkeys strength and that any attempt at imposing uniformity would diminish its identity. He also spoke of a spiritual bridge linking heaven and earth through the divine gift of revelation. In meetings with political authorities, he assured them that Christians were committed to contributing to the countrys cohesion and well-being.

Another one of Leos key focus areas is social justice. While in Turkey, he reminded the audience that in societies where religion was visible and influential, it was important to recognise the dignity and freedom of every person. He reiterated his concern for migrants, the poor and the environment, a hallmark of his pastoral work before becoming Pope. He repeated his view that a consistent commitment to human life includes the humane treatment of immigrants as well as unborn children. This broader vision of the pro-life ethic had previously shaped his guidance to bishops in the United States.

The choice of Turkey for his first foreign visit held particular significance. The year marks the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, one of the most important gatherings in Christian history. In Turkey, apart from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Leo is meeting senior Muslim leaders and the countrys chief rabbi, as well as representatives of various Christian traditions. Analysts see these meetings as a sign of the popes readiness to advance interreligious dialogue with both Islam and Judaism. His approach shows a desire to strengthen relations beyond the Catholic Church and to reduce mutual suspicion among faith communities.

A focal point of the journey will be the Popes meeting with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew in Iznik, the historic site of the First Council of Nicaea. The two leaders will pray together and commemorate the formation of the Nicene Creed, still central to Christian belief. It could go a long way in addressing the longstanding division between the Catholic and Orthodox Churches, which dates back nearly a thousand years.

After completing his engagements in Turkey, Pope Leo will fly to Lebanon, home to the Middle Easts largest Catholic community. The visit comes during a period of heightened tension, marked by fears of renewed conflict between Israel and Hezbollah and by Lebanons severe economic crisis. Many Lebanese hope that the Popes presence would draw global attention to their countrys suffering and encourage the international community to respond. Leo will meet President Joseph Aoun and visit the site of the 2020 Beirut port explosion for a moment of silent prayer. Given the fragile security situation, Vatican officials confirmed that precautionary measures have been carefully arranged.

The trip to the Middle East also offers a peek into Leos leadership style. Compared to the more spontaneous Francis, Leo appears deliberate and understated. It could enhance his effectiveness in sensitive diplomatic contexts. Although he seems to continue many of Franciss commitments, particularly on social issues, he tends to express them in a way that avoids unnecessary confrontation. Interestingly, most of his public statements are in English rather than Italian, allowing him to communicate directly with international audiences. Within the Vatican, he has acted with similar care, reinstating bonuses for staff, proceeding slowly with appointments and inviting all cardinals to convene in order to encourage a more collaborative governance.

The visit to Turkey and Lebanon stands as a defining moment in the early months of Leo XIVs papacy. It has so far shown him as a thoughtful and conciliatory figure, determined to promote unity among nations and faiths.
The Afghan refugee who is the main accused in the shooting of two members of the US National Guard had lived a quiet family life in Bellingham in Washington state.

Ramanullah Lakanwal, 29, lived in a $2000 rented apartment along with his wife and five children, according to his neighbours. They said that he was often seen playing Call of Duty and FIFA inside the bare apartment and that they never made a peep. The neighbours also reported that the family did not have beds or furnishing inside the sparse apartment except for a few cushions which they used to sleep on.

One neighbour who spoke to the New York Post said that Lakanwal did not speak much English. His oldest child is 14.

The neighbour said Bellingham is very liberal and that the area which housed the Afghan refugees was, "very welcoming, very diverse, very open."

Lakanwal, who once worked with the CIA, had come to the US during the Biden era under the Operation Allies Welcome program in September 2021, which gave some Afghans who worked for the US government, entry visas. He was granted asylum in April this year under the Trump administration, Reuters reported.

The CIA also confirmed that he worked with their military units during the US war in Afghanistan, helping guard US forces at Kabul airport as thousands fled the country before it fell to the Taliban. A former military commander who served alongside him described him as a "sporty and jolly character" to the BBC.

Lakanwals cousin, who spoke to the Associated Press, said he was originally from the Khost province.

He is also facing at least three counts of assault with intent to kill and criminal possession of a weapon.

On Wednesday, Lankanwal allegedly shot two National Guard troops just a few blocks away from the white house with a .357 Smith and Wesson revolver. Sarah Beckstrom, 20, died after succumbing to her injuries. Andrew Wolfe was critically injured. Beckstrom

Lakanwal was also left with gunshot wounds in the melee that followed.

About 16 hours later, the FBI busted through the gunman's front door. neighbours recalled that they took everybody out of the apartemnt but his kids were not there. "They took everybody out of the apartment but I dont think the kids were there. Its pretty shocking. Every sign in the world is pointing (to Lakanwal being the shooter) but there are some things that just arent adding up, the neighbour said.

One local recalled that they heard loud banging on the door and people yelling FBI. One thing that stuck out to us was that law enforcement didnt show up until 16, 17 hours after it happened. Its hard to (know why he did it) because you dont know his mindset. You know if he just snapped, they said.

The motive behind the shooting is still unknown. Officials said that Lakanwal drove thousands of miles across the country before the attack.
As many as 56 people were killed as torrential rains, floods and landslides due to Cyclone Ditwah wreaked havoc in Sri Lanka. Sri Lankan authorites have said over 43,900 people from 12,313 families have been affected by the extreme weather conditions.

According to local media reports, the number of people who died in the cyclone-related incidents could cross 100.

Severe weather conditions have disrupted normal life as road closures and rail disruptions have been reported across the country. Heavy rains impacted the operations at Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport , forcing the diversion of 15 flights.

Widespread electricity outages have also been reported, and around seven million consumers are affected. Telecom services, too, have been affected.

The irrigation department warned residents in low-lying northern parts of Colombo near the Kelani River to evacuate, saying the area could face its worst flooding in the island nation's history.

INS Vikrant for rescue operations

Indian aircraft carrier INS Vikrant would be deployed in Sri Lanka for rescue operations, officials said on Friday.

Sri Lanka had formally requested the use of the aircraft carrier, which had recently docked in Colombo for port calls on November 25-26 as part of preparations for the International Fleet Review 2025, scheduled for November 30, for ongoing rescue and relief operations.

India sends relief supplies

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the loss of lives and announced relief supplies for the cyclone-battered nation.

"My heartfelt condolences to the people of Sri Lanka who have lost their loved ones due to Cyclone Ditwah. I pray for the safety, comfort and swift recovery of all affected families," the prime minister said in a tweet.

"In solidarity with our closest maritime neighbour, India has urgently dispatched relief materials and vital HADR support under Operation Sagar Bandhu. We stand ready to provide more aid and assistance as the situation evolves," he said.
The death toll of the deadly blaze at an apartment complex in Hong Kong has reached 128 as of Friday. Officials reported that the rescue operations were coming to an end, as only 16 bodies were reportedly still inside the buildings, at a press conference.

Firefighters had continued to search inside the burned high rises for people who survived after a massive blaze broke out and spread across seven of eight towers part of the Wang Fuk Court housing complex in the northern district of Tai Po. The buildings had housed more than 4,600 people.

124 people were found dead at the scene, and 4 were declared dead at the hospital.

Are the bamboo scaffolds to blame for the spread of the fire?

The eight towers were all undergoing renovations and were wrapped in bamboo scaffolding and green mesh. Initially, it was believed that the bamboo and mesh caused the fire to spread. However, according to Hong Kong netizens, the scaffolding remained intact on Friday morning at around 3 am, after the flames were contained.

On social media, many demonstrated the fireproof nature of bamboo and defended the widely used material.

They also pointed out that the mesh nets were flammable.

Authorities say that a highly flammable styrofoam material and plastic sheets on the building's windows, which were used in the renovation, are what caused the fires to spread quickly. Secretary for Security Chris Tang Ping-Keung said that the ignited styrofoam had produced extremely high temperatures, which in turn set the netting and the bamboo scaffolding alight.

Authorities had been trying to push for the use of fire-resistant steel instead of bamboo in construction before the fire, citing safety reasons. However, this was met with criticism by those who claimed that the move to introduce steel would only serve the interests of mainland Chinas steel industry. The disaster, however, has sped up the push toward steel scaffolding, Kong Chief Executive John Lee saying that the government was considering replacing bamboo scaffolding with metal frameworks.





Who is responsible?

A majority of the dead were found in two out of the seven towers that caught fire. The status of 200 people remains unclear. 12 firefighters were also injured while tackling the blaze.

About 25 calls for help during the fire are still unresolved, as officials were not able to reach Derek Armstrong Chan, a deputy director of Hong Kong Fire Services, he told reporters.

Fire Services director Andy Yeung said that the Fire Services Department (FSD) found that the fire alarms in the estates eight buildings could not function properly and that a prosecution would follow. Several residents also revealed in interviews that the fire alarm in the buildings did not go off.

An owner of one of the apartments at the estate, Kiko Ma, said that the alarms were turned off amid renovation works, "This was preventable... A lot of people did not do their duties," she told the BBC. The residents also reported that construction workers were often seen smoking and cigarette butts were found on the window ledges.

The apartment complex was built in the 1980s. Nearly 40 per cent of the 4,600 residents were aged 65 and older. It also housed many foreign nationals. 19 Filipino domestic workers who resided in the building are still missing.

Two directors from Will Power Architects Company, the consultant firm in charge of the renovation project, were arrested by Hong Kongs Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) on Friday.

Earlier, three senior staff members of renovation company Prestige Construction & Engineering Co Limited were arrested for alleged manslaughter.

The ICAC has also launched a corruption probe into the repair works that cost around HK$330 million ($42.43 million). The incident has prompted calls for stronger fire safety laws in construction.
One of the National Guard members shot by an Afghan refugee in Washington, DC, on Wednesday succumbed to her injuries, confirmed US President Donald Trump. While giving a Thanksgiving call to US troops, Trump said he had just learned that Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, had died.

She's just passed away. She's no longer with us. She's looking down at us right now. Her parents are with her, Trump said, adding that Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, was fighting for his life.



Beckstrom was shot in the head and chest with a .357 Magnum-calibre revolver, just blocks from the White House, around 2 p.m. The accused was identified as Afghan refugee Rahmanullah Lakanwal, who worked in a special CIA-backed Afghan Army unit before emigrating from Afghanistan.

Beckstroms fate was almost clear when her father made an emotional statement to The New York Times on Wednesday. Im holding her hand right now, her father, Gary Beckstrom, told The New York Times when reached by phone earlier on Thursday. She has a mortal wound. Its not going to be a recovery, he added.

US Us Attorney General Pam Bondi took to X to say that Beckstrom had volunteered for the duty on Thanksgiving Day. Devastated. Please pray for Sarah. Pray for her family, Bondi posted after Beckstroms death. America will never forget her courage. There WILL BE JUSTICE for Sarah. Continue to pray for Andrew. Thank you to President Trump  the death penalty is back.

.@POTUS announces that U.S. Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom of Summersville, West Virginia, one of the National Guardsmen savagely attacked yesterday in Washington, D.C., has just passed away.



May God be with her family  pic.twitter.com/BEbAOxmJme  Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) November 27, 2025

She volunteered to be there on Thanksgiving  working today  she volunteered, as did many of those guardsmen and women, so other people could be home with their families, Bondi said on Thursday.

Earlier, DC US Attorney Jeanine Pirro revealed the two guardsmen were sworn in less than 24 hours before they were shot on the street in Washington.

She started her service on June 6, 2023, and was assigned to the 863rd Military Police Company, 111th Engineer Brigade of the West Virginia Army National Guard. She, along with the other injured guardsmen, was deployed to Washington in August after Trump ordered the troops to the capital.

Beckstroms former boyfriend described her as a caring and tenderhearted woman who dreamt of having a career in the FBI. He said that she wasnt initially excited to go to Washington, but later on grew to enjoy her time there.
Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Khaleda Zia has been hospitalised in critical condition, revealed leaders of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).

The BNP supremo, 80, was first brought to Evercare Hospital in Dhakha on November 23 after she suffered a chest infection. She is being treated by a medical board comprising Bangladeshi and foreign doctors.

What happened to Khaleda Zia?

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said last night, the doctors said that her physical condition is extremely critical. He asked people in the country to pray for her recovery. The chest infection has affected her heart and lungs, he said.

Today, 23 November 2025, the visiting Prime Minister of Bhutan, @tsheringtobgay, extended his warm greetings to BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia by presenting a bouquet of flowers during a meeting with BNP leaders at Hotel Intercontinental, Shahbagh, pic.twitter.com/6VMuC3IOtM  Bangladesh Nationalist Party-BNP (@bdbnp78) November 23, 2025

She has already been suffering from liver and kidney issues. Besides, she also has diabetes and arthritis.

After Friday's Jumma prayers, special prayers were held for the party chief's speedy recovery, said Alamgir. "We pray that she recovers and can work for the country again," he added.

Earlier, Zia was being treated in London before she returned to Dhaka on May 6. Her eldest son, Tarique Rahman, has been living in London since 2008. Arafat Rahman, the younger son, died of heart attack earlier this year.

Zia, who is the widow of former Bangladesh President Ziaur Rahman, served as PM of the country twice from 1991 to 1996 and 2001 to 2006. Ziaur Rahman, who was assassinated on May 30, 1981, by rebel army officers in Chittagong, was the founder of BNP. Later Zia took over as BNP chief in 1984.
In Aanand L Rais 2013 film Raanjhanaa, Dhanush played Kundan, an obsessive stalker, who cannot take no, and slits his wrist when rejected by Zoya (Sonam Kapoor).

In Rais 2025 film Tere Ishk Mein, Dhanush plays Shankar, whos as obsessive, but also extremely violent. He beats up classmates with ease and, when rejected by Mukti (Kriti Sanon), storms her engagement announcement with petrol bombs and eventually sets her house on fire.

But while in Raanjhanaa, Zoya was at least repulsed by Kundan, Mukti is inexplicably drawn Shankar. It feels like toxicity masquerading as passionate love, but is actually violence inflicted both on screen and on the audiences senses.

Written by Neeraj Yadav and Himanshu Sharma, the film opens in Ladakh, where our supposedly best man for the job -- Flight Lieutenant Shankar Gurukkal (Dhanush)  is in full combat mode, engaging with the enemy just on the basis of a call of his stomach. He cant follow orders, gets grounded, and is handed over for psychological evaluation to Dr Mukti -- who is heavily pregnant but is somehow dispatched to an impending war zone.

The moment they meet, simmering anger, guilt and sorrow bubble up, triggering a flashback to their first encounter.

Shankar, a law student and DUSU president, is introduced beating up boys for political support. Mukti, at the same college, is presenting her thesis on anger and violence. And instead of running for her life, she sees the perfect case study in him, and decides to fix him. He, meanwhile, does change, but not without falling obsessively in love with her.

And when she finally catches on to the intensity of his feelings, she hands him an impossible task. He somehow achieves it, only to discover shes already moved on, igniting his default trio: anger, resentment and violence.

He would as easily pour petrol on her boyfriend as set her house on fire. The justification? That hes poor and his mother died when he was ten, which runs thin especially when his father, played by Prakash Raj, is depicted as unfailingly supportive and loving.

While hes problematic, Mukti is no less. She isnt repulsed by him  shes drawn in. When she stops him mid-assault and he says, Itni sundar ladki ka haath utha hai to kisi gaal pe to padna hi hai (If such a beautiful girl raises her hand, it has to land on someones cheek), she smiles. When he says, Mujhe fun chahiye, meaning he wants sex, she doesnt recoil. And when he finally sets her house on fire, her explanation is: Hes just in love, as if love is some kind of illness.

The film wants you to believe its about two broken individuals drawn to one another, but it feels more like a case of broken writing. While Shankars motivations are understudied, but what is more perplexing is Muktis saviour complex -- why she feels compelled to fix him, and why shes obsessively drawn to him. Oh, and she also becomes an alcoholic out of nowhere. Youll never know, why.

Rais Raanjhanaa had two strong suits: A.R. Rahmans music and Benares, which functioned like a living, breathing character  its ghats, its cadence, its way of life. Here, music barely leaves a mark, and Delhi is reduced to a cardboard backdrop, explored only through its most obvious contrast: Shankars slum versus Muktis Lutyens Delhi.

While Dhanush and Sanon land a cracking performance, other actors, tall in their way, are underused  be it Raj, Tota Roy Chowdhury, as Sanons father, or Priyanshu Painyuli, as Dhanushs friend.

Benaras and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub appear for a few minutes, but those minutes  the ghats and Ayyubs trademark Pandit dialogue  end up being among the strongest shots in the film.

But at the end, Tere Ishk Mein leaves you uneasy, if not triggered. It leaves you thinking  why are we glorifying toxic, violent, so-called alpha males? And why is it okay for a female to have saviour complex  that her love can somehow fix him? Why are we still exploring them in 2025? Or with Kabir Singh, Animal and Saiyaara, are we sliding back?

Film: Tere Ishk Mein

Director: Aanand L. Rai

Cast: Dhanush, Kriti Sanon, Prakash Raj

Rating: 2/5
Xylem (NYSE:XYL  Get Free Report) and Montrose Environmental Group (NYSE:MEG  Get Free Report) are both business services companies, but which is the better business? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their analyst recommendations, dividends, profitability, risk, earnings, valuation and institutional ownership.

Earnings & Valuation

This table compares Xylem and Montrose Environmental Groups top-line revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Get Xylem alerts:

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Xylem $8.89 billion 3.87 $890.00 million $3.89 36.31 Montrose Environmental Group $826.32 million 1.10 -$62.31 million ($0.91) -28.19

Analyst Ratings

Xylem has higher revenue and earnings than Montrose Environmental Group. Montrose Environmental Group is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Xylem, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

This is a summary of recent ratings for Xylem and Montrose Environmental Group, as reported by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Xylem 0 6 8 0 2.57 Montrose Environmental Group 1 2 4 0 2.43

Xylem currently has a consensus price target of $166.90, suggesting a potential upside of 18.16%. Montrose Environmental Group has a consensus price target of $34.40, suggesting a potential upside of 34.11%. Given Montrose Environmental Groups higher possible upside, analysts clearly believe Montrose Environmental Group is more favorable than Xylem.

Volatility and Risk

Xylem has a beta of 1.15, meaning that its stock price is 15% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Montrose Environmental Group has a beta of 1.84, meaning that its stock price is 84% more volatile than the S&P 500.

Profitability

This table compares Xylem and Montrose Environmental Groups net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Xylem 10.66% 10.77% 6.98% Montrose Environmental Group -2.52% 0.17% 0.08%

Insider and Institutional Ownership

88.0% of Xylem shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 87.9% of Montrose Environmental Group shares are owned by institutional investors. 0.3% of Xylem shares are owned by company insiders. Comparatively, 11.9% of Montrose Environmental Group shares are owned by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, endowments and large money managers believe a company is poised for long-term growth.

Summary

Xylem beats Montrose Environmental Group on 11 of the 14 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Xylem

(Get Free Report)

Xylem Inc., together with its subsidiaries, engages in the design, manufacture, and servicing of engineered products and solutions worldwide. It operates through four segments: Water Infrastructure, Applied Water, Measurement & Control Solutions, and Integrated Solutions and Services. The Water Infrastructure segment offers products, including water, storm water, and wastewater pumps; controls and systems; filtration, disinfection, and biological treatment equipment; and mobile dewatering equipment and rental services under the ADI, Flygt, Godwin, Sanitaire, Magneto, Neptune Benson, Ionpure, Leopold, Wedeco, and Xylem Vue brands. The Applied Water segment provides pumps, valves, heat exchangers, controls, and dispensing equipment systems under the Goulds Water Technology, Bell & Gossett, A-C Fire Pump, Standard Xchange, Lowara, Jabsco, Xylem Vue, and Flojet brands. The Measurement & Control Solutions segment offers smart meters, networked communication devices, data analytics, test equipment, controls, sensor devices, software and managed services, and critical infrastructure services; and software and services, including cloud-based analytics, remote monitoring and data management, leak detection, condition assessment, asset management, and pressure monitoring solutions, as well as testing equipment. This segment sells its products under the Pure Technologies, Sensus, Smith Blair, WTW, Xylem Vue, and YSI brands. The Integrated Solutions and Services segment provides maintenance services, mobile services, digital outsourced solutions, wastewater systems, environmental remediation, odor and corrosion control, filtration, reverse osmosis, ion exchange, and deionization under Aquapro, WaterOne, and Ion Pure brands. Xylem Inc. was formerly known as ITT WCO, Inc. and changed its name to Xylem Inc. in May 2011. Xylem Inc. was incorporated in 2011 and is headquartered in Washington, District of Columbia.

About Montrose Environmental Group

(Get Free Report)

Montrose Environmental Group, Inc. operates as an environmental services company in the United States, Canada, and internationally. The company operates in three segments: Assessment, Permitting and Response; Measurement and Analysis; and Remediation and Reuse. The Assessment, Permitting and Response segment provides scientific advisory and consulting services to support environmental assessments; environmental emergency response and recovery; toxicology consulting and environmental audits and permits for current operations; facility upgrades; new projects; decommissioning projects; and development projects. This segment also offers technical advisory and consulting services, including regulatory compliance support and planning, environmental, ecosystem and toxicological assessments, and support during responses to environmental disruptions. The Measurement and Analysis segment tests and analyzes air, water, and soil to determine concentrations of contaminants, as well as the toxicological impact of contaminants on flora, fauna, and human health. Its services include source and ambient air testing and monitoring, leak detection, and advanced analytical laboratory services, such as storm water, wastewater, and drinking water analysis. The Remediation and Reuse segment provides engineering, design, implementation, and operations and maintenance services primarily to treat contaminated water, remove contaminants from soil, or create biogas from waste. The company serves financial, oil and gas, utilities, construction, automotive, real-estate, midstream energy, manufacturing, commodities, petrochemical, food and beverage, telecommunications, and engineering industries, as well as local, state, provincial, and federal government entities. Montrose Environmental Group, Inc. was founded in 2012 and is headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas.

Receive News & Ratings for Xylem Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Xylem and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Tokio Marine (OTCMKTS:TKOMY  Get Free Report) was downgraded by Wall Street Zen from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report issued on Thursday.

Separately, Zacks Research raised shares of Tokio Marine from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Thursday, October 23rd. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating, According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold.

Get Tokio Marine alerts:

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on Tokio Marine

Tokio Marine Stock Up 1.7%

TKOMY traded up $0.59 during trading on Thursday, reaching $35.86. The stock had a trading volume of 105,416 shares, compared to its average volume of 326,992. The company has a current ratio of 0.05, a quick ratio of 0.05 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.05. The stocks 50 day moving average is $39.39 and its two-hundred day moving average is $41.01. The company has a market capitalization of $69.35 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.14, a P/E/G ratio of 0.59 and a beta of 0.24. Tokio Marine has a one year low of $30.14 and a one year high of $46.23.

Tokio Marine (OTCMKTS:TKOMY  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, November 19th. The company reported $0.79 EPS for the quarter. The firm had revenue of $14.24 billion for the quarter. Tokio Marine had a return on equity of 15.90% and a net margin of 9.67%. As a group, analysts expect that Tokio Marine will post 3.51 earnings per share for the current year.

About Tokio Marine

(Get Free Report)

Tokio Marine Holdings, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, engages in non-life and life insurance, international insurance, and financial and general businesses worldwide. The company provides business, fire, Internet and mobile, rental housing, and natural catastrophe risk insurance services, as well as insurance for retail and corporate fields.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Tokio Marine Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Tokio Marine and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Seabridge Gold Inc. (TSE:SEA  Get Free Report) (NYSE:SA)s stock price crossed above its two hundred day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a two hundred day moving average of C$25.31 and traded as high as C$36.08. Seabridge Gold shares last traded at C$35.53, with a volume of 89,535 shares trading hands.

Seabridge Gold Stock Performance

The business has a 50 day moving average price of C$33.69 and a 200 day moving average price of C$25.49. The stock has a market cap of C$3.98 billion, a P/E ratio of -69.29 and a beta of 1.61. The company has a quick ratio of 3.34, a current ratio of 2.28 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 58.83.

Get Seabridge Gold alerts:

Insider Activity at Seabridge Gold

In related news, Director Tracey Jane Arlaud sold 2,300 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, September 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of C$24.26, for a total value of C$55,786.73. Following the completion of the sale, the director owned 11,700 shares in the company, valued at approximately C$283,784.67. The trade was a 16.43% decrease in their ownership of the stock. Company insiders own 2.78% of the companys stock.

Seabridge Gold Company Profile

Seabridge Gold Inc is a development stage company involved in the evaluation, acquisition, exploration, and development of gold properties sited in North America. The companys principal projects include the Kerr-Sulphurets-Mitchell property located in British Columbia, the Courageous Lake property located in the Northwest Territories and its newly acquired Iksut Property located in northwestern British Columbia.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Seabridge Gold Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Seabridge Gold and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of Christian Dior S.E. Unsponsored ADR (OTCMKTS:CHDRY  Get Free Report) crossed above its 50 day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a 50 day moving average of $157.33 and traded as high as $163.5830. Christian Dior S.E. shares last traded at $163.5830, with a volume of 3 shares traded.

Christian Dior S.E. Price Performance

The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $158.30 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $141.62. The company has a current ratio of 1.48, a quick ratio of 0.72 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.19.

Christian Dior S.E. Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Christian Dior SE, through its subsidiaries, engages in the production, distribution, and retail of fashion and leather goods, wines and spirits, perfumes and cosmetics, and watches and jewelry worldwide. The company offers its fashion and leather goods under the Louis Vuitton, Fendi, Celine, Loewe, Givenchy, Kenzo, Berluti, Pucci, Loro Piana, Rimowa, and Off-White brand names; and wines and spirits under the Hennessy, Moet & Chandon, Dom Perignon, Veuve Clicquot, Krug, Chateau d'Yquem, Belvedere, Glenmorangie, Newton Vineyards, Bodega Numanthia, Chateau d'Esclans, Armand de Brignac, and Joseph Phelps brands.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Christian Dior S.E. Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Christian Dior S.E. and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of Gear4music (Holdings) plc (LON:G4M  Get Free Report) passed above its 50 day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a 50 day moving average of GBX 296.33 and traded as high as GBX 300. Gear4music shares last traded at GBX 290.02, with a volume of 17,520 shares changing hands.

Gear4music Stock Down 1.7%

The company has a quick ratio of 0.43, a current ratio of 2.19 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 79.53. The company has a market capitalization of 60.83 million, a PE ratio of 76.32, a P/E/G ratio of 0.78 and a beta of 1.41. The stock has a 50-day moving average of GBX 296.35 and a 200 day moving average of GBX 246.45.

Get Gear4music alerts:

Gear4music (LON:G4M  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, November 18th. The company reported GBX 9.60 earnings per share for the quarter. Gear4music had a return on equity of 2.60% and a net margin of 0.68%. Sell-side analysts anticipate that Gear4music will post 22.0105125 EPS for the current year.

About Gear4music

Operating from a Head Office in York, Distribution Centres in York, Bacup, Sweden, Germany, Ireland & Spain, and showrooms in York, Bacup, Sweden & Germany, the Group sells own-brand musical instruments and music equipment alongside premium third-party brands including Fender, Yamaha and Roland, to customers ranging from beginners to musical enthusiasts and professionals, in the UK, Europe and the Rest of the World.

Having developed its own e-commerce platform, with multilingual, multicurrency websites delivering to over 190 countries, the Group continues to build its overseas presence.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Gear4music Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Gear4music and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Dorel Industries Inc (TSE:DII.A  Get Free Report)s share price crossed above its 50 day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a 50 day moving average of C$2.57 and traded as high as C$4.00. Dorel Industries shares last traded at C$4.00, with a volume of 100 shares.

Dorel Industries Price Performance

The company has a fifty day simple moving average of C$2.60 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of C$2.09. The stock has a market capitalization of C$67.95 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -0.36 and a beta of 1.23. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 287.70, a quick ratio of 0.64 and a current ratio of 1.45.

About Dorel Industries

(Get Free Report)

Dorel Industries Inc is a Canadian company that sells juvenile products and furniture. Its segments include Dorel Home and Dorel Juvenile. Dorel Home segment is engaged in the design, sourcing, manufacturing, and distribution of ready-to-assemble furniture and home furnishings which include metal folding furniture, futons, childrens furniture, step stools, hand trucks, ladders, outdoor furniture, and other imported furniture items.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Dorel Industries Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Dorel Industries and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of John Hancock Preferred Income Fund III (NYSE:HPS  Get Free Report) passed below its 50 day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a 50 day moving average of $15.32 and traded as low as $14.74. John Hancock Preferred Income Fund III shares last traded at $14.92, with a volume of 38,430 shares.

John Hancock Preferred Income Fund III Stock Performance

The firm has a 50 day moving average of $15.30 and a 200-day moving average of $14.76.

Get John Hancock Preferred Income Fund III alerts:

John Hancock Preferred Income Fund III Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, November 28th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, November 13th will be given a dividend of $0.11 per share. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, November 13th. This represents a c) dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 8.8%.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On John Hancock Preferred Income Fund III

John Hancock Preferred Income Fund III Company Profile

Institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Ameritas Advisory Services LLC acquired a new stake in shares of John Hancock Preferred Income Fund III during the 2nd quarter valued at about $52,000. Fifth Third Bancorp bought a new position in John Hancock Preferred Income Fund III during the second quarter worth about $72,000. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC bought a new position in John Hancock Preferred Income Fund III during the second quarter worth about $326,000. Focus Financial Network Inc. boosted its holdings in John Hancock Preferred Income Fund III by 10.9% during the second quarter. Focus Financial Network Inc. now owns 11,398 shares of the companys stock valued at $163,000 after purchasing an additional 1,116 shares in the last quarter. Finally, LPL Financial LLC grew its stake in shares of John Hancock Preferred Income Fund III by 18.8% in the 1st quarter. LPL Financial LLC now owns 252,703 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,791,000 after purchasing an additional 39,981 shares during the period.

(Get Free Report)

John Hancock Preferred Income Fund III is a closed ended fixed income mutual fund launched and managed by John Hancock Investment Management LLC. It is co-managed by John Hancock Asset Management. The fund invests in the fixed income markets of the United States. It seeks to invest in securities of companies operating across diversified sectors.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for John Hancock Preferred Income Fund III Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for John Hancock Preferred Income Fund III and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Companhia Paranaense de Energia (COPEL) (NYSE:ELP  Get Free Report) shares crossed above its 200-day moving average during trading on Thursday . The stock has a 200-day moving average of $9.30 and traded as high as $10.83. Companhia Paranaense de Energia (COPEL) shares last traded at $10.7850, with a volume of 510,079 shares traded.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Separately, Weiss Ratings reiterated a hold (c) rating on shares of Companhia Paranaense de Energia (COPEL) in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Hold rating, Based on data from MarketBeat, Companhia Paranaense de Energia (COPEL) has an average rating of Hold.

Get Companhia Paranaense de Energia (COPEL) alerts:

View Our Latest Research Report on Companhia Paranaense de Energia (COPEL)

Companhia Paranaense de Energia (COPEL) Trading Up 3.8%

The firms 50 day simple moving average is $10.04 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $9.30. The stock has a market capitalization of $6.42 billion, a P/E ratio of 63.44, a P/E/G ratio of 4.17 and a beta of 0.83. The company has a quick ratio of 1.12, a current ratio of 1.13 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.63.

Companhia Paranaense de Energia (COPEL) (NYSE:ELP  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, November 13th. The utilities provider reported $0.02 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.04 by ($0.02). Companhia Paranaense de Energia (COPEL) had a net margin of 12.77% and a return on equity of 11.15%. The firm had revenue of $1.29 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $972.33 million. As a group, analysts forecast that Companhia Paranaense de Energia will post 0.12 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Companhia Paranaense de Energia (COPEL)

Institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the company. Letko Brosseau & Associates Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of Companhia Paranaense de Energia (COPEL) by 2.9% in the 1st quarter. Letko Brosseau & Associates Inc. now owns 6,714,721 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $49,085,000 after purchasing an additional 190,026 shares in the last quarter. Robeco Institutional Asset Management B.V. raised its holdings in Companhia Paranaense de Energia (COPEL) by 36.0% during the third quarter. Robeco Institutional Asset Management B.V. now owns 651,443 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $6,384,000 after buying an additional 172,274 shares during the last quarter. Bank of America Corp DE lifted its stake in shares of Companhia Paranaense de Energia (COPEL) by 18.9% in the third quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 647,662 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $6,347,000 after buying an additional 102,948 shares in the last quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP grew its holdings in shares of Companhia Paranaense de Energia (COPEL) by 12.4% during the third quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP now owns 195,836 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $1,918,000 after buying an additional 21,604 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Marshall Wace LLP bought a new stake in shares of Companhia Paranaense de Energia (COPEL) during the second quarter worth about $1,228,000. 3.80% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Companhia Paranaense de Energia (COPEL) Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Companhia Paranaense de Energia  COPEL engages in the generation, transformation, distribution, and sale of electricity to industrial, residential, commercial, rural, and other customers in Brazil. The company operates through Power Generation and Transmission, Power Distribution, Power Sale, and Gas segments.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Companhia Paranaense de Energia (COPEL) Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Companhia Paranaense de Energia (COPEL) and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
BlackRock MuniHoldings New Jersey Quality Fund, Inc. (NYSE:MUJ  Get Free Report) crossed above its 200-day moving average during trading on Thursday . The stock has a 200-day moving average of $11.20 and traded as high as $11.90. BlackRock MuniHoldings New Jersey Quality Fund shares last traded at $11.88, with a volume of 93,323 shares.

BlackRock MuniHoldings New Jersey Quality Fund Stock Performance

The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $11.66 and a 200-day simple moving average of $11.20.

Get BlackRock MuniHoldings New Jersey Quality Fund alerts:

BlackRock MuniHoldings New Jersey Quality Fund Announces Dividend

The firm also recently announced a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 1st. Shareholders of record on Friday, November 14th will be issued a dividend of $0.054 per share. This represents a c) annualized dividend and a yield of 5.5%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, November 14th.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On BlackRock MuniHoldings New Jersey Quality Fund

BlackRock MuniHoldings New Jersey Quality Fund Company Profile

Several institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in MUJ. Nomura Holdings Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of BlackRock MuniHoldings New Jersey Quality Fund during the 2nd quarter valued at about $110,000. Janney Montgomery Scott LLC bought a new stake in shares of BlackRock MuniHoldings New Jersey Quality Fund in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $113,000. Advisory Services Network LLC bought a new position in shares of BlackRock MuniHoldings New Jersey Quality Fund in the 3rd quarter worth about $133,000. Susquehanna International Group LLP acquired a new stake in shares of BlackRock MuniHoldings New Jersey Quality Fund during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $134,000. Finally, Prestige Wealth Management Group LLC bought a new stake in BlackRock MuniHoldings New Jersey Quality Fund in the third quarter valued at $159,000. 15.13% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

(Get Free Report)

BlackRock MuniHoldings New Jersey Quality Fund, Inc is a close ended fixed income mutual fund launched by BlackRock, Inc The fund is managed by BlackRock Advisors, LLC. It invests in the fixed income markets of United States. The fund invests primarily in long-term, investment grade municipal obligations exempt from federal income taxes and New Jersey personal income taxes.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for BlackRock MuniHoldings New Jersey Quality Fund Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for BlackRock MuniHoldings New Jersey Quality Fund and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Science Group plc (LON:SAG  Get Free Report)s stock price crossed below its 200-day moving average during trading on Thursday . The stock has a 200-day moving average of GBX 533.77 and traded as low as GBX 530.01. Science Group shares last traded at GBX 536.50, with a volume of 12,892 shares traded.

Science Group Price Performance

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 19.36, a quick ratio of 1.56 and a current ratio of 2.01. The company has a market capitalization of 236.70 million, a PE ratio of 7.97 and a beta of 0.46. The companys 50-day simple moving average is GBX 549.26 and its 200-day simple moving average is GBX 533.77.

Get Science Group alerts:

Insider Activity

In related news, insider Martyn Roy Ratcliffe sold 1,450,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, September 4th. The stock was sold at an average price of GBX 55, for a total transaction of 797,500. 24.14% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Science Group Company Profile

Science Group plc, a science, engineering, and technology business company, provides consultancy services in the United Kingdom, rest of Europe, North America, Asia, and internationally. The company operates through three segments: Services Operating Business, Product Operating Business, and Freehold Properties.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Science Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Science Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Similarweb Ltd. (NYSE:SMWB  Get Free Report) has been assigned an average recommendation of Moderate Buy from the eleven analysts that are covering the company, MarketBeat Ratings reports. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell recommendation, one has given a hold recommendation and nine have issued a buy recommendation on the company. The average twelve-month price target among brokerages that have covered the stock in the last year is $13.3750.

A number of research analysts have recently weighed in on the company. Zacks Research upgraded Similarweb from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, August 14th. Citigroup reaffirmed a market outperform rating on shares of Similarweb in a research note on Tuesday, October 28th. Weiss Ratings reiterated a sell (d-) rating on shares of Similarweb in a research report on Monday. Needham & Company LLC restated a buy rating and issued a $14.00 price target on shares of Similarweb in a research report on Monday, November 17th. Finally, Barclays reaffirmed an overweight rating on shares of Similarweb in a research note on Wednesday, August 13th.

Get Similarweb alerts:

Get Our Latest Stock Report on SMWB

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Similarweb

Similarweb Trading Up 1.6%

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of SMWB. Larson Financial Group LLC purchased a new stake in Similarweb during the 3rd quarter valued at $25,000. Wexford Capital LP purchased a new stake in shares of Similarweb in the third quarter valued at $64,000. Fullcircle Wealth LLC bought a new stake in shares of Similarweb in the 3rd quarter worth about $140,000. MQS Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of Similarweb during the 2nd quarter worth about $125,000. Finally, Fox Run Management L.L.C. bought a new position in Similarweb during the 2nd quarter valued at about $129,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 57.59% of the companys stock.

NYSE SMWB opened at $7.78 on Tuesday. Similarweb has a 12 month low of $6.36 and a 12 month high of $17.64. The stock has a market cap of $660.54 million, a PE ratio of -21.03 and a beta of 1.09. The stocks 50 day moving average is $8.59 and its 200 day moving average is $8.47.

Similarweb (NYSE:SMWB  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, November 11th. The company reported $0.05 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.02 by $0.03. Similarweb had a negative net margin of 11.20% and a negative return on equity of 78.25%. The firm had revenue of $71.79 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $71.95 million. Similarweb has set its FY 2025 guidance at EPS. On average, analysts forecast that Similarweb will post -0.24 EPS for the current fiscal year.

About Similarweb

(Get Free Report)

Similarweb Ltd. provides cloud-based digital intelligence solutions in the United States, Europe, the Asia Pacific, the United Kingdom, Israel, and internationally. The company offers digital research intelligence solutions for its customers to benchmark performance against competitors and market leaders, analyze trends in the market, conduct deeper research into specific companies, and analyze audience behavior; and digital marketing intelligence solutions for its customers to understand their competitors' online acquisition strategies in each marketing channel, and optimize their own strategies.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Similarweb Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Similarweb and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted its stake in Amcor PLC (NYSE:AMCR  Free Report) by 51.1% during the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 9,700,142 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 3,280,328 shares during the period. JPMorgan Chase & Co. owned about 0.67% of Amcor worth $89,148,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the stock. State of Alaska Department of Revenue increased its position in shares of Amcor by 51.6% in the second quarter. State of Alaska Department of Revenue now owns 464,293 shares of the companys stock valued at $4,266,000 after acquiring an additional 158,082 shares during the period. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. boosted its holdings in shares of Amcor by 71.4% during the second quarter. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. now owns 2,446,429 shares of the companys stock worth $22,483,000 after purchasing an additional 1,019,306 shares during the period. Sound Income Strategies LLC grew its stake in shares of Amcor by 54,855.7% in the second quarter. Sound Income Strategies LLC now owns 605,062 shares of the companys stock worth $5,561,000 after purchasing an additional 603,961 shares during the last quarter. Mitsubishi UFJ Asset Management Co. Ltd. grew its stake in shares of Amcor by 63.5% in the second quarter. Mitsubishi UFJ Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 5,012,038 shares of the companys stock worth $46,061,000 after purchasing an additional 1,946,147 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Focus Partners Advisor Solutions LLC purchased a new position in Amcor during the 2nd quarter valued at about $463,000. Institutional investors own 45.14% of the companys stock.

Get Amcor alerts:

Amcor Stock Performance

Shares of AMCR stock opened at $8.62 on Friday. The companys fifty day moving average price is $8.20 and its 200-day moving average price is $8.80. The stock has a market cap of $19.86 billion, a PE ratio of 23.93, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.14 and a beta of 0.72. The company has a current ratio of 1.21, a quick ratio of 0.71 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.18. Amcor PLC has a 12 month low of $7.66 and a 12 month high of $10.70.

Amcor Increases Dividend

Amcor ( NYSE:AMCR Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, November 5th. The company reported $0.19 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, hitting the consensus estimate of $0.19. Amcor had a net margin of 3.40% and a return on equity of 19.43%. The company had revenue of $5.75 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.77 billion. During the same period last year, the business earned $0.16 EPS. Amcors quarterly revenue was up 71.3% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, equities analysts expect that Amcor PLC will post 0.74 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 17th. Stockholders of record on Friday, November 28th will be given a $0.13 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 28th. This represents a $0.52 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 6.0%. This is an increase from Amcors previous quarterly dividend of $0.13. Amcors payout ratio is presently 152.94%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several research firms have weighed in on AMCR. The Goldman Sachs Group started coverage on Amcor in a report on Wednesday, September 10th. They issued a buy rating for the company. JPMorgan Chase & Co. began coverage on shares of Amcor in a research report on Friday, September 19th. They set an overweight rating and a $10.00 price objective on the stock. Morgan Stanley reaffirmed an overweight rating and issued a $11.50 target price on shares of Amcor in a research report on Wednesday, November 12th. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c-) rating on shares of Amcor in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus raised shares of Amcor from a hold rating to a buy rating and set a $10.20 price target for the company in a research note on Friday, October 10th. Ten investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and four have issued a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Amcor presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $10.91.

Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on AMCR

Amcor Profile

(Free Report)

Amcor plc develops, produces, and sells packaging products in Europe, North America, Latin America, Africa, and the Asia Pacific regions. The company operates through two segments, Flexibles and Rigid Packaging. The Flexibles segment provides flexible and film packaging products in the food and beverage, medical and pharmaceutical, fresh produce, snack food, personal care, and other industries.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding AMCR? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Amcor PLC (NYSE:AMCR  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Amcor Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Amcor and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Swiss National Bank lessened its position in Antero Midstream Corporation (NYSE:AM  Free Report) by 1.9% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 685,800 shares of the pipeline companys stock after selling 13,600 shares during the quarter. Swiss National Bank owned approximately 0.14% of Antero Midstream worth $12,996,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Dorsey Wright & Associates raised its stake in Antero Midstream by 22.0% during the 2nd quarter. Dorsey Wright & Associates now owns 18,743 shares of the pipeline companys stock valued at $355,000 after purchasing an additional 3,380 shares during the period. TD Waterhouse Canada Inc. boosted its position in shares of Antero Midstream by 36.9% in the second quarter. TD Waterhouse Canada Inc. now owns 6,907 shares of the pipeline companys stock worth $126,000 after buying an additional 1,861 shares during the period. Inspire Advisors LLC grew its holdings in shares of Antero Midstream by 12.4% during the second quarter. Inspire Advisors LLC now owns 12,840 shares of the pipeline companys stock valued at $243,000 after buying an additional 1,417 shares in the last quarter. Nomura Asset Management Co. Ltd. raised its position in Antero Midstream by 58.8% during the second quarter. Nomura Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 2,700 shares of the pipeline companys stock valued at $51,000 after buying an additional 1,000 shares during the period. Finally, Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH lifted its stake in Antero Midstream by 7.7% in the 2nd quarter. Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH now owns 162,758 shares of the pipeline companys stock worth $3,084,000 after acquiring an additional 11,632 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 53.97% of the companys stock.

Get Antero Midstream alerts:

Antero Midstream Stock Performance

AM stock opened at $17.81 on Friday. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $18.23 and a two-hundred day moving average of $18.19. Antero Midstream Corporation has a 12 month low of $14.22 and a 12 month high of $19.82. The company has a market capitalization of $8.48 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 18.17 and a beta of 0.88. The company has a quick ratio of 1.03, a current ratio of 1.03 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.45.

Antero Midstream Dividend Announcement

Antero Midstream ( NYSE:AM Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 29th. The pipeline company reported $0.27 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.25 by $0.02. Antero Midstream had a net margin of 40.07% and a return on equity of 22.53%. The firm had revenue of $294.82 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $287.30 million. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $0.21 earnings per share. Antero Midstreams revenue for the quarter was down 8.4% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that Antero Midstream Corporation will post 0.95 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, November 5th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, October 22nd were issued a dividend of $0.225 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Wednesday, October 22nd. This represents a $0.90 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 5.1%. Antero Midstreams dividend payout ratio is currently 91.84%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

AM has been the topic of several research analyst reports. Zacks Research cut Antero Midstream from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, September 19th. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a buy (b+) rating on shares of Antero Midstream in a research report on Tuesday. Wells Fargo & Company upped their price objective on shares of Antero Midstream from $17.00 to $19.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Friday, August 1st. Morgan Stanley increased their target price on shares of Antero Midstream from $19.00 to $20.00 and gave the stock an underweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, November 12th. Finally, Wall Street Zen cut shares of Antero Midstream from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, November 1st. One analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, three have given a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Antero Midstream has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $18.83.

Read Our Latest Analysis on Antero Midstream

Antero Midstream Profile

(Free Report)

Antero Midstream Corporation owns, operates, and develops midstream energy assets in the Appalachian Basin. It operates in two segments, Gathering and Processing, and Water Handling. The Gathering and Processing segment includes a network of gathering pipelines and compressor stations that collects and processes production from Antero Resources' wells in West Virginia and Ohio.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Antero Midstream Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Antero Midstream and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
BT Group plc (OTCMKTS:BTGOF  Get Free Report) has received an average rating of Reduce from the six analysts that are currently covering the company, MarketBeat Ratings reports. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a sell recommendation, one has given a hold recommendation and one has issued a buy recommendation on the company.

Several research firms recently issued reports on BTGOF. BNP Paribas lowered shares of BT Group to an underperform rating in a report on Thursday, October 2nd. New Street Research downgraded BT Group to a neutral rating in a research note on Tuesday, September 30th. Morgan Stanley restated an overweight rating on shares of BT Group in a research report on Monday, August 11th. Finally, Citigroup reiterated a sell rating on shares of BT Group in a report on Monday, September 1st.

Get BT Group alerts:

Check Out Our Latest Report on BTGOF

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

BT Group Stock Performance

A hedge fund recently bought a new stake in BT Group stock. Boston Common Asset Management LLC purchased a new position in BT Group plc ( OTCMKTS:BTGOF Free Report ) during the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor purchased 53,804 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $138,000. 38.14% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Shares of OTCMKTS BTGOF opened at $2.37 on Friday. The companys 50 day moving average price is $2.44 and its 200-day moving average price is $2.55. BT Group has a 52-week low of $1.60 and a 52-week high of $2.97.

About BT Group

(Get Free Report)

BT Group plc provides communications products and services in the United Kingdom, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the Americas, and the Asia Pacific. It operates through Consumer, Enterprise, Global, and Openreach segments. The company builds, owns, and operates fixed and mobile networks; and designs, builds, markets, sells, and supports network access, connectivity, and related solutions.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for BT Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for BT Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Global Retirement Partners LLC purchased a new position in iShares Morningstar Mid-Cap ETF (NYSEARCA:IMCB  Free Report) in the 2nd quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The institutional investor purchased 11,938 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $951,000.

Several other hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of IMCB. Detalus Advisors LLC raised its position in shares of iShares Morningstar Mid-Cap ETF by 6.9% in the 2nd quarter. Detalus Advisors LLC now owns 3,184 shares of the companys stock valued at $254,000 after purchasing an additional 205 shares during the last quarter. Financial Perspectives Inc increased its stake in iShares Morningstar Mid-Cap ETF by 4.1% during the 2nd quarter. Financial Perspectives Inc now owns 6,138 shares of the companys stock valued at $489,000 after purchasing an additional 243 shares in the last quarter. Rede Wealth LLC raised its holdings in shares of iShares Morningstar Mid-Cap ETF by 3.0% in the second quarter. Rede Wealth LLC now owns 10,445 shares of the companys stock worth $832,000 after buying an additional 303 shares during the last quarter. Financial Gravity Companies Inc. purchased a new position in shares of iShares Morningstar Mid-Cap ETF in the second quarter worth $26,000. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada lifted its stake in shares of iShares Morningstar Mid-Cap ETF by 0.8% during the first quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 46,267 shares of the companys stock worth $3,428,000 after buying an additional 369 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 22.26% of the companys stock.

Get iShares Morningstar Mid-Cap ETF alerts:

iShares Morningstar Mid-Cap ETF Price Performance

Shares of IMCB opened at $82.52 on Friday. The companys fifty day moving average price is $82.28 and its 200-day moving average price is $80.78. iShares Morningstar Mid-Cap ETF has a 1-year low of $64.02 and a 1-year high of $83.95. The firm has a market capitalization of $1.33 billion, a PE ratio of 54.65 and a beta of 1.04.

iShares Morningstar Mid-Cap ETF Profile

The iShares Morningstar Mid-Cap ETF (IMCB) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the Morningstar US Mid Cap index. The fund tracks a market cap-weighted index consisting of US mid-cap stocks with both growth and value characteristics. IMCB was launched on Jun 28, 2004 and is managed by BlackRock.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding IMCB? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares Morningstar Mid-Cap ETF (NYSEARCA:IMCB  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for iShares Morningstar Mid-Cap ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Morningstar Mid-Cap ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Global Retirement Partners LLC purchased a new position in Illinois Tool Works Inc. (NYSE:ITW  Free Report) during the 2nd quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The fund purchased 3,468 shares of the industrial products companys stock, valued at approximately $857,000.

Several other large investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Jefferies Financial Group Inc. grew its stake in Illinois Tool Works by 7.2% in the 2nd quarter. Jefferies Financial Group Inc. now owns 18,509 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $4,576,000 after acquiring an additional 1,237 shares in the last quarter. Prudential Financial Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Illinois Tool Works by 8.9% in the second quarter. Prudential Financial Inc. now owns 155,743 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $38,507,000 after purchasing an additional 12,670 shares during the period. Coldstream Capital Management Inc. grew its stake in Illinois Tool Works by 6.5% in the second quarter. Coldstream Capital Management Inc. now owns 8,530 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $2,109,000 after purchasing an additional 524 shares in the last quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. increased its holdings in Illinois Tool Works by 0.5% during the 2nd quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 2,541,391 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $628,360,000 after purchasing an additional 12,558 shares during the period. Finally, American Century Companies Inc. raised its position in Illinois Tool Works by 5.5% during the 2nd quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 63,752 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $15,763,000 after purchasing an additional 3,311 shares in the last quarter. 79.77% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Get Illinois Tool Works alerts:

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of equities analysts have recently issued reports on ITW shares. Robert W. Baird set a $265.00 price target on Illinois Tool Works in a research report on Monday, October 27th. Wells Fargo & Company dropped their target price on shares of Illinois Tool Works from $250.00 to $245.00 and set an underweight rating on the stock in a report on Monday, October 27th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft upped their price target on shares of Illinois Tool Works from $265.00 to $268.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, October 2nd. Barclays increased their price objective on shares of Illinois Tool Works from $243.00 to $244.00 and gave the company an underweight rating in a research note on Monday, October 27th. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group set a $258.00 price objective on shares of Illinois Tool Works in a research note on Monday, October 27th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, eight have given a Hold rating and three have issued a Sell rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Illinois Tool Works presently has an average rating of Reduce and a consensus target price of $263.77.

Insider Activity

In other Illinois Tool Works news, CAO Randall J. Scheuneman sold 6,802 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Thursday, September 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $265.08, for a total value of $1,803,074.16. Following the completion of the sale, the chief accounting officer directly owned 10,314 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,734,035.12. This trade represents a 39.74% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, Director Pamela B. Strobel sold 1,521 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, November 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $245.25, for a total value of $373,025.25. Following the completion of the sale, the director directly owned 39,249 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $9,625,817.25. This represents a 3.73% decrease in their position. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Corporate insiders own 0.88% of the companys stock.

Illinois Tool Works Stock Up 0.4%

Shares of Illinois Tool Works stock opened at $249.27 on Friday. Illinois Tool Works Inc. has a 52-week low of $214.66 and a 52-week high of $279.13. The firms 50 day moving average price is $250.02 and its 200-day moving average price is $253.20. The company has a quick ratio of 1.11, a current ratio of 1.53 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.39. The company has a market cap of $72.31 billion, a P/E ratio of 24.18, a PEG ratio of 4.10 and a beta of 1.11.

Illinois Tool Works (NYSE:ITW  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Friday, October 24th. The industrial products company reported $2.81 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate 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 company had revenue of $4.06 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.09 billion. During the same period last year, the firm earned $3.91 earnings per share. Illinois Tool Workss revenue was up 2.3% compared to the same quarter last year. Illinois Tool Works has set its FY 2025 guidance at 10.400-10.500 EPS. On average, sell-side analysts predict that Illinois Tool Works Inc. will post 10.39 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Illinois Tool Works Announces Dividend

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, January 9th. Investors of record on Wednesday, December 31st will be paid a dividend of $1.61 per share. This represents a $6.44 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.6%. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, December 31st. Illinois Tool Workss payout ratio is 62.46%.

Illinois Tool Works Profile

(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.

Read More

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding ITW? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Illinois Tool Works Inc. (NYSE:ITW  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Illinois Tool Works Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Illinois Tool Works and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
VAT Group AG  Unsponsored ADR (OTCMKTS:VACNY  Get Free Report)s share price gapped up prior to trading on Wednesday . The stock had previously closed at $41.28, but opened at $43.07. VAT Group shares last traded at $43.07, with a volume of 185 shares trading hands.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of analysts have issued reports on the company. The Goldman Sachs Group raised VAT Group from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Monday, September 1st. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft restated a hold rating on shares of VAT Group in a research note on Wednesday, October 15th. Zacks Research raised shares of VAT Group from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Monday, September 22nd. Citigroup upgraded shares of VAT Group to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 7th. Finally, UBS Group raised shares of VAT Group from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Thursday, November 20th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, one has issued a Buy rating and three have issued a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy.

Get VAT Group alerts:

View Our Latest Report on VAT Group

VAT Group Stock Up 3.3%

VAT Group Company Profile

The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $42.47 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $39.66.

(Get Free Report)

VAT Group AG, together with its subsidiaries, develops, manufactures, and supplies vacuum valves, multi-valve units, vacuum modules, and edge-welded metal bellows in Switzerland, rest of Europe, the United States, Japan, Korea, Singapore, China, rest of Asia, and internationally. It operates through two segments, Valves and Global Service.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for VAT Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for VAT Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised its position in Restaurant Brands International Inc. (NYSE:QSR  Free Report) (TSE:QSR) by 4.6% during the second quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 1,530,765 shares of the restaurant operators stock after purchasing an additional 66,661 shares during the quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. owned approximately 0.47% of Restaurant Brands International worth $101,479,000 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. Aviso Financial Inc. raised its position in Restaurant Brands International by 1.2% during the first quarter. Aviso Financial Inc. now owns 953,186 shares of the restaurant operators stock valued at $63,566,000 after acquiring an additional 11,164 shares in the last quarter. Jump Financial LLC acquired a new position in shares of Restaurant Brands International during the 1st quarter worth $432,000. Raymond James Financial Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Restaurant Brands International by 90.9% during the 1st quarter. Raymond James Financial Inc. now owns 563,747 shares of the restaurant operators stock valued at $37,568,000 after purchasing an additional 268,511 shares in the last quarter. Partners Capital Investment Group LLP lifted its stake in shares of Restaurant Brands International by 91.2% in the 1st quarter. Partners Capital Investment Group LLP now owns 145,787 shares of the restaurant operators stock valued at $9,715,000 after purchasing an additional 69,557 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC lifted its stake in shares of Restaurant Brands International by 11.3% in the 2nd quarter. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC now owns 78,845 shares of the restaurant operators stock valued at $5,355,000 after purchasing an additional 7,988 shares during the last quarter. 82.29% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Get Restaurant Brands International alerts:

Restaurant Brands International Stock Performance

QSR opened at $72.22 on Friday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.98, a current ratio of 1.06 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.65. The stocks 50 day moving average price is $67.51 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $67.21. The firm has a market capitalization of $23.68 billion, a P/E ratio of 25.70, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.87 and a beta of 0.63. Restaurant Brands International Inc. has a 12-month low of $58.71 and a 12-month high of $72.98.

Restaurant Brands International Announces Dividend

Restaurant Brands International ( NYSE:QSR Get Free Report ) (TSE:QSR) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 30th. The restaurant operator reported $1.03 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.00 by $0.03. The company had revenue of $2.45 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.39 billion. Restaurant Brands International had a return on equity of 32.43% and a net margin of 9.95%.Restaurant Brands Internationals revenue for the quarter was up 6.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned $0.93 earnings per share. On average, equities analysts forecast that Restaurant Brands International Inc. will post 3.72 earnings per share for the current year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, January 6th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, December 23rd will be issued a $0.62 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, December 23rd. This represents a $2.48 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.4%. Restaurant Brands Internationals dividend payout ratio is 88.26%.

Insider Transactions at Restaurant Brands International

In other news, Chairman J Patrick Doyle sold 43,597 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Friday, November 21st. The shares were sold at an average price of $69.80, for a total transaction of $3,043,070.60. Following the transaction, the chairman owned 193,855 shares in the company, valued at approximately $13,531,079. The trade was a 18.36% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. 1.25% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

QSR has been the topic of several recent research reports. Citigroup raised their target price on Restaurant Brands International from $72.00 to $74.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Thursday, October 16th. Piper Sandler cut their price objective on Restaurant Brands International from $72.00 to $70.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, August 8th. Barclays reduced their target price on Restaurant Brands International from $80.00 to $78.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Friday, August 8th. Morgan Stanley set a $77.00 price target on Restaurant Brands International in a report on Tuesday, October 21st. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada reduced their price objective on shares of Restaurant Brands International from $80.00 to $77.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research note on Friday, August 8th. Nine analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, thirteen have given a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $74.76.

Read Our Latest Research Report on Restaurant Brands International

Restaurant Brands International Company Profile

(Free Report)

Restaurant Brands International Inc operates as a quick-service restaurant company in Canada, the United States, and internationally. It operates through four segments: Tim Hortons (TH), Burger King (BK), Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen (PLK), and Firehouse Subs (FHS). The company owns and franchises TH chain of donut/coffee/tea restaurants that offer blend coffee, tea, and espresso-based hot and cold specialty drinks; and fresh baked goods, including donuts, Timbits, bagels, muffins, cookies and pastries, grilled paninis, classic sandwiches, wraps, soups, and other food products.

Read More

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding QSR? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Restaurant Brands International Inc. (NYSE:QSR  Free Report) (TSE:QSR).

Receive News & Ratings for Restaurant Brands International Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Restaurant Brands International and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Laurel Wealth Advisors LLC lifted its position in SPDR Nuveen ICE Municipal Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:TFI  Free Report) by 4,367.0% in the 2nd quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The fund owned 44,670 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 43,670 shares during the quarter. Laurel Wealth Advisors LLCs holdings in SPDR Nuveen ICE Municipal Bond ETF were worth $1,995,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Betterment LLC lifted its position in shares of SPDR Nuveen ICE Municipal Bond ETF by 29.5% during the first quarter. Betterment LLC now owns 9,181,983 shares of the companys stock valued at $413,832,000 after purchasing an additional 2,094,084 shares in the last quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased its stake in SPDR Nuveen ICE Municipal Bond ETF by 1,104.7% in the 1st quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 6,315,309 shares of the companys stock valued at $284,631,000 after buying an additional 5,791,093 shares during the last quarter. Bank of Montreal Can increased its stake in SPDR Nuveen ICE Municipal Bond ETF by 13.9% in the 2nd quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 1,672,375 shares of the companys stock valued at $74,705,000 after buying an additional 204,535 shares during the last quarter. Austin Private Wealth LLC lifted its position in shares of SPDR Nuveen ICE Municipal Bond ETF by 80.7% during the 2nd quarter. Austin Private Wealth LLC now owns 652,787 shares of the companys stock worth $29,160,000 after buying an additional 291,473 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Wealthcare Advisory Partners LLC boosted its stake in shares of SPDR Nuveen ICE Municipal Bond ETF by 51.7% in the 2nd quarter. Wealthcare Advisory Partners LLC now owns 631,414 shares of the companys stock worth $28,205,000 after buying an additional 215,071 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 89.83% of the companys stock.

Get SPDR Nuveen ICE Municipal Bond ETF alerts:

SPDR Nuveen ICE Municipal Bond ETF Stock Performance

Shares of NYSEARCA TFI opened at $45.90 on Friday. The stocks 50 day moving average price is $45.73 and its 200-day moving average price is $44.99. SPDR Nuveen ICE Municipal Bond ETF has a twelve month low of $42.84 and a twelve month high of $46.68.

SPDR Nuveen ICE Municipal Bond ETF Profile

SPDR Lehman Municipal Bond ETF, formerly SPDR Nuveen Barclays Municipal Bond ETF (the Fund), seeks to provide investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the Barclays Capital Municipal Managed Money Index (the Index). The Fund uses a passive management strategy designed to track the Index.

See Also

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding TFI? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for SPDR Nuveen ICE Municipal Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:TFI  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for SPDR Nuveen ICE Municipal Bond ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for SPDR Nuveen ICE Municipal Bond ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
J.W. Cole Advisors Inc. raised its stake in Boston Scientific Corporation (NYSE:BSX  Free Report) by 176.9% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 22,234 shares of the medical equipment providers stock after buying an additional 14,203 shares during the quarter. J.W. Cole Advisors Inc.s holdings in Boston Scientific were worth $2,388,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the stock. 1248 Management LLC bought a new stake in Boston Scientific in the 1st quarter valued at $26,000. Y.D. More Investments Ltd bought a new position in Boston Scientific during the 1st quarter worth $27,000. Sound Income Strategies LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Boston Scientific by 90.9% during the second quarter. Sound Income Strategies LLC now owns 252 shares of the medical equipment providers stock worth $27,000 after buying an additional 120 shares in the last quarter. Princeton Global Asset Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of Boston Scientific in the second quarter valued at about $32,000. Finally, Oliver Lagore Vanvalin Investment Group acquired a new position in shares of Boston Scientific in the second quarter valued at about $37,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 89.07% of the companys stock.

Get Boston Scientific alerts:

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

BSX has been the subject of several analyst reports. Morgan Stanley lifted their price objective on shares of Boston Scientific from $125.00 to $130.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Thursday, October 23rd. BTIG Research reiterated a buy rating and issued a $132.00 price target on shares of Boston Scientific in a research report on Friday, November 21st. Truist Financial boosted their price target on Boston Scientific from $129.00 to $130.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, October 23rd. Evercore ISI restated an outperform rating on shares of Boston Scientific in a research note on Wednesday, October 22nd. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group reaffirmed a buy rating and issued a $124.00 price objective on shares of Boston Scientific in a report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, twenty-one have issued a Buy rating and two have issued a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Buy and an average target price of $123.77.

Insider Buying and Selling at Boston Scientific

In other Boston Scientific news, EVP Joseph Michael Fitzgerald sold 50,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, October 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $98.47, for a total value of $4,923,500.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president owned 178,342 shares of the companys stock, valued at $17,561,336.74. This represents a 21.90% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. Also, Director Ellen M. Zane sold 12,891 shares of Boston Scientific stock in a transaction dated 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 sale, the director directly owned 24,134 shares in the company, valued at $2,371,889.52. The trade was 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 valued at $17,742,314 over the last quarter. Company insiders own 0.50% of the companys stock.

Boston Scientific Stock Down 0.2%

BSX stock opened at $101.14 on Friday. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $99.09 and a 200-day moving average price of $102.28. Boston Scientific Corporation has a 12 month low of $85.98 and a 12 month high of $109.50. The company has a current ratio of 1.37, a quick ratio of 0.82 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.49. The stock has a market capitalization of $149.93 billion, a P/E ratio of 54.08, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.02 and a beta of 0.58.

Boston Scientific (NYSE:BSX  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data 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 analysts expectations of $4.97 billion. Boston Scientific had a net margin of 14.43% and a return on equity of 19.74%. The firms quarterly revenue was up 20.3% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior 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. As a group, equities research analysts anticipate that Boston Scientific Corporation will post 2.85 EPS for the current fiscal year.

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.

Featured Articles

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BSX? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Boston Scientific Corporation (NYSE:BSX  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Boston Scientific Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Boston Scientific and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Russell Investments Group Ltd. increased its holdings in shares of Canadian Natural Resources Limited (NYSE:CNQ  Free Report) (TSE:CNQ) by 7.7% in the second quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The firm owned 2,053,060 shares of the oil and gas producers stock after buying an additional 146,465 shares during the quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd.s holdings in Canadian Natural Resources were worth $64,447,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Cetera Investment Advisers boosted its stake in shares of Canadian Natural Resources by 1.9% during the first quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 86,369 shares of the oil and gas producers stock worth $2,660,000 after buying an additional 1,582 shares during the period. XTX Topco Ltd purchased a new stake in Canadian Natural Resources during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $1,288,000. Mesirow Financial Investment Management Inc. acquired a new stake in Canadian Natural Resources during the 1st quarter worth approximately $292,000. Klein Pavlis & Peasley Financial Inc. grew its stake in shares of Canadian Natural Resources by 51.9% in the 1st quarter. Klein Pavlis & Peasley Financial Inc. now owns 48,381 shares of the oil and gas producers stock valued at $1,515,000 after purchasing an additional 16,536 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Cumberland Partners Ltd increased its holdings in shares of Canadian Natural Resources by 2.2% in the first quarter. Cumberland Partners Ltd now owns 160,150 shares of the oil and gas producers stock valued at $4,929,000 after purchasing an additional 3,497 shares during the period. 74.03% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Get Canadian Natural Resources alerts:

Canadian Natural Resources Trading Up 0.3%

NYSE:CNQ opened at $33.34 on Friday. Canadian Natural Resources Limited has a 1 year low of $24.65 and a 1 year high of $34.97. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.38, a quick ratio of 0.54 and a current ratio of 0.85. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $32.07 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $31.63. The stock has a market capitalization of $69.46 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.82 and a beta of 0.96.

Canadian Natural Resources Increases Dividend

Canadian Natural Resources ( NYSE:CNQ Get Free Report ) (TSE:CNQ) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, November 6th. The oil and gas producer reported $0.62 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.54 by $0.08. The company had revenue of $6.79 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $6.81 billion. Canadian Natural Resources had a net margin of 19.00% and a return on equity of 19.67%. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $0.97 EPS. As a group, sell-side analysts anticipate that Canadian Natural Resources Limited will post 2.45 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, January 6th. Shareholders of record on Friday, December 12th will be given a dividend of $0.5875 per share. The ex-dividend date is Friday, December 12th. This is an increase from Canadian Natural Resourcess previous quarterly dividend of $0.43. This represents a $2.35 annualized dividend and a yield of 7.0%. Canadian Natural Resourcess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 73.89%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

CNQ has been the subject of several recent research reports. TD Securities reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of Canadian Natural Resources in a report on Tuesday, September 30th. Royal Bank Of Canada restated an outperform rating and set a $62.00 price objective on shares of Canadian Natural Resources in a research report on Wednesday, September 24th. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c) rating on shares of Canadian Natural Resources in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Wells Fargo & Company upgraded shares of Canadian Natural Resources to a hold rating in a research note on Thursday, October 16th. Finally, Raymond James Financial reissued an outperform rating on shares of Canadian Natural Resources in a report on Friday, August 8th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, five have given a Buy rating and five have issued a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $62.00.

Get Our Latest Analysis on Canadian Natural Resources

Canadian Natural Resources Profile

(Free Report)

Canadian Natural Resources Limited acquires, explores for, develops, produces, markets, and sells crude oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids (NGLs). The company offers light and medium crude oil, primary heavy crude oil, Pelican Lake heavy crude oil, bitumen (thermal oil), and synthetic crude oil (SCO).

Featured Stories

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CNQ? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Canadian Natural Resources Limited (NYSE:CNQ  Free Report) (TSE:CNQ).

Receive News & Ratings for Canadian Natural Resources Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Canadian Natural Resources and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
BEIJING, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- China firmly opposes Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's continuous undermining of the political foundation of China-Japan relations, which is based on the spirit of the four political documents between the two countries, a foreign ministry spokesperson said here Thursday.

It was reported that Takaichi said on Wednesday at the debate with opposition party leaders that "having renounced all rights and claims under the Treaty of San Francisco, we are not in a position to recognize Taiwan's legal status."

In response, spokesperson Guo Jiakun told a regular news briefing that China's recovery of Taiwan is a victorious outcome of World War II and an integral part of the postwar international order. A series of instruments with legal effect under international law, including the Cairo Declaration, the Potsdam Proclamation, and the Japanese Instrument of Surrender, have all affirmed China's sovereignty over Taiwan.

The question regarding the status of Taiwan was already resolved once and for all when the Chinese people won the victory of the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression in 1945. On Oct. 1, 1949, the Central People's Government of the People's Republic of China (PRC) was established and has since been the sole legal government representing the whole of China. This is a change of government in which China, as a subject under international law, did not change and China's sovereignty and inherent territorial boundaries stayed unchanged, Guo said, adding that thus, the government of the PRC naturally and fully enjoys and exercises China's sovereignty, including sovereignty over the Taiwan region.

He said the 1972 Sino-Japanese Joint Statement states that "The Government of Japan recognizes the Government of the People's Republic of China as the sole legal Government of China. The Government of the People's Republic of China reiterates that Taiwan is an inalienable part of the territory of the People's Republic of China. 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."

The so-called "Treaty of San Francisco" was issued with the exclusion of important parties to the WWII, such as the PRC and the Soviet Union, in order to seek a separate peace deal with Japan. The document goes against the provision that each government pledges not to make a separate armistice or peace with the enemies in the Declaration by United Nations signed by 26 countries in 1942, including China, the U.S., the UK and the Soviet Union, and violates the UN Charter and the basic principles of international law, he said.

"Anything set out in the treaty, including on the sovereignty over Taiwan or the handling of the territory and sovereign rights of China as a non-signatory, is thus entirely illegal and null and void," Guo said.

He said Prime Minister Takaichi deliberately chose not to mention the Cairo Declaration and the Potsdam Proclamation -- two international legal documents with full effect and underscored in the Sino-Japanese Joint Statement, the Treaty of Peace and Friendship Between China and Japan and other bilateral treaties, noting that she singularly brought up the illegal and invalid "Treaty of San Francisco."

That once again shows that the prime minister remains unwilling to own up to the wrongdoing and turn back from the erroneous course, continues to damage the political foundation of China-Japan relations established under the spirit of the four political documents between the two countries, shows no regard for the authority of the UN and openly challenges the postwar international order and basic norms in international law, and even seeks to play up the so-called notion that Taiwan's status is undetermined. That just compounds the wrongdoing, Guo said.

"China firmly rejects that and calls for utmost vigilance from the international community. We once again urge the Japanese side to reflect on and correct its wrongdoing, retract the erroneous remarks, and take practical steps to honor its commitments to China and do what is least expected of Japan as a UN member state," he said. 
Inceptionr LLC bought a new stake in Everest Group, Ltd. (NYSE:EG  Free Report) during the second quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The fund bought 1,596 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $542,000.

Several other hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Exchange Traded Concepts LLC lifted its position in Everest Group by 25.3% in the 2nd quarter. Exchange Traded Concepts LLC now owns 3,647 shares of the companys stock worth $1,239,000 after buying an additional 737 shares during the last quarter. Korea Investment CORP raised its stake in shares of Everest Group by 130.4% during the first quarter. Korea Investment CORP now owns 62,093 shares of the companys stock worth $22,560,000 after acquiring an additional 35,145 shares in the last quarter. Brandywine Global Investment Management LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Everest Group by 109.5% in the 1st quarter. Brandywine Global Investment Management LLC now owns 26,030 shares of the companys stock worth $9,457,000 after acquiring an additional 13,607 shares during the last quarter. Panagora Asset Management Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of Everest Group by 95.8% in the 1st quarter. Panagora Asset Management Inc. now owns 7,415 shares of the companys stock worth $2,694,000 after acquiring an additional 3,628 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Interval Partners LP purchased a new stake in shares of Everest Group in the 1st quarter valued at $5,185,000. Institutional investors own 92.64% of the companys stock.

Get Everest Group alerts:

Insider Activity

In related news, Director William F. Galtney, Jr. bought 11,385 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, October 29th. The shares were purchased at an average price of $307.38 per share, with a total value of $3,499,521.30. Following the purchase, the director owned 45,491 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $13,983,023.58. This trade represents a 33.38% increase in their position. The acquisition was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Also, Director Allan Levine purchased 3,100 shares of Everest Group stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, October 29th. The shares were bought at an average price of $306.08 per share, for a total transaction of $948,848.00. Following the transaction, 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 ownership of the stock. Additional details regarding this purchase are available in the official SEC disclosure. Company insiders own 1.10% of the companys stock.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of brokerages recently commented on EG. Weiss Ratings reiterated a hold (c) rating on shares of Everest Group in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Evercore ISI lifted their price objective on Everest Group from $380.00 to $384.00 and gave the stock an in-line rating in a report on Wednesday, October 1st. Wolfe Research upgraded Everest Group from an underperform rating to a peer perform rating in a report on Wednesday, October 29th. Raymond James Financial reaffirmed an outperform rating and issued a $350.00 price target on shares of Everest Group in a research note on Monday, November 3rd. Finally, Barclays dropped their price objective on Everest Group from $425.00 to $365.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Friday, October 31st. Five investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and ten have issued a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $368.77.

Get Our Latest Research Report on Everest Group

Everest Group Trading Down 0.6%

EG opened at $312.17 on Friday. Everest Group, Ltd. has a one year low of $302.44 and a one year high of $392.11. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.24, a current ratio of 0.38 and a quick ratio of 0.38. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $334.30 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $337.08. The firm has a market capitalization of $13.10 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 23.78, a PEG ratio of 0.25 and a beta of 0.47.

Everest Group (NYSE:EG  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Monday, October 27th. The company reported $7.54 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $13.39 by ($5.85). The business had revenue of $4.32 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.86 billion. Everest Group had a net margin of 3.12% and a return on equity of 3.81%. Everest Groups quarterly revenue was up .8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the firm posted $11.80 earnings per share. Analysts predict that Everest Group, Ltd. will post 47.93 EPS for the current year.

Everest Group Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 12th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, November 26th will be issued a $2.00 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, November 26th. This represents a $8.00 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.6%. Everest Groups dividend payout ratio is 60.93%.

Everest Group 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.

Featured Articles

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding EG? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Everest Group, Ltd. (NYSE:EG  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Everest Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Everest Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Inceptionr LLC grew its stake in ARMOUR Residential REIT, Inc. (NYSE:ARR  Free Report) by 121.9% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 30,288 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after purchasing an additional 16,638 shares during the period. Inceptionr LLCs holdings in ARMOUR Residential REIT were worth $509,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other large investors have also made changes to their positions in the stock. Amalgamated Bank lifted its stake in shares of ARMOUR Residential REIT by 6.1% in the second quarter. Amalgamated Bank now owns 22,403 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $377,000 after buying an additional 1,279 shares during the period. Fifth Third Bancorp lifted its position in shares of ARMOUR Residential REIT by 184.3% in the 2nd quarter. Fifth Third Bancorp now owns 2,198 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $37,000 after acquiring an additional 1,425 shares during the period. Allworth Financial LP grew its holdings in shares of ARMOUR Residential REIT by 139.1% during the 2nd quarter. Allworth Financial LP now owns 2,675 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $45,000 after purchasing an additional 1,556 shares in the last quarter. Maryland State Retirement & Pension System increased its position in shares of ARMOUR Residential REIT by 7.8% during the second quarter. Maryland State Retirement & Pension System now owns 24,025 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $404,000 after purchasing an additional 1,732 shares during the period. Finally, SeaCrest Wealth Management LLC increased its position in shares of ARMOUR Residential REIT by 12.2% during the second quarter. SeaCrest Wealth Management LLC now owns 18,412 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $310,000 after purchasing an additional 2,000 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 54.17% of the companys stock.

Get ARMOUR Residential REIT alerts:

ARMOUR Residential REIT Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:ARR opened at $17.44 on Friday. The businesss fifty day moving average price is $15.94 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $16.06. ARMOUR Residential REIT, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $13.18 and a fifty-two week high of $19.64. The stock has a market capitalization of $1.95 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 436.00 and a beta of 1.44.

ARMOUR Residential REIT Dividend Announcement

ARMOUR Residential REIT ( NYSE:ARR Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, October 22nd. The real estate investment trust reported $0.72 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.75 by ($0.03). ARMOUR Residential REIT had a net margin of 9.01% and a return on equity of 15.37%. The firm had revenue of $210.90 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $63.25 million. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $1.00 EPS. Research analysts expect that ARMOUR Residential REIT, Inc. will post 3.8 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently disclosed a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 29th. Shareholders of record on Monday, December 15th will be paid a dividend of $0.24 per share. This represents a c) annualized dividend and a yield of 16.5%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, December 15th. ARMOUR Residential REITs dividend payout ratio is currently 7,200.00%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of equities research analysts have weighed in on ARR shares. Weiss Ratings reiterated a sell (d) rating on shares of ARMOUR Residential REIT in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Zacks Research raised shares of ARMOUR Residential REIT from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Friday, October 10th. Finally, UBS Group reissued a neutral rating and issued a $16.00 target price on shares of ARMOUR Residential REIT in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, six have given a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $16.00.

Read Our Latest Analysis on ARMOUR Residential REIT

ARMOUR Residential REIT Profile

(Free Report)

ARMOUR Residential REIT, Inc invests in residential mortgage-backed securities (MBS) in the United States. Its securities portfolio primarily consists of the United States Government-sponsored entity's (GSE) and the Government National Mortgage Administration's issued or guaranteed securities backed by fixed rate, hybrid adjustable rate, and adjustable-rate home loans; and unsecured notes and bonds issued by the GSE and the United States treasuries, as well as money market instruments.

Featured Stories

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding ARR? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for ARMOUR Residential REIT, Inc. (NYSE:ARR  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for ARMOUR Residential REIT Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for ARMOUR Residential REIT and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Vinva Investment Management Ltd increased its position in shares of Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT  Free Report) by 1.1% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 65,913 shares of the healthcare product makers stock after purchasing an additional 748 shares during the quarter. Vinva Investment Management Ltds holdings in Abbott Laboratories were worth $8,857,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. IMG Wealth Management Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Abbott Laboratories by 759.1% during the 2nd quarter. IMG Wealth Management Inc. now owns 189 shares of the healthcare product makers stock worth $26,000 after buying an additional 167 shares in the last quarter. Elequin Capital LP bought a new position in Abbott Laboratories in the first quarter valued at about $30,000. Anfield Capital Management LLC raised its stake in Abbott Laboratories by 81.3% during the second quarter. Anfield Capital Management LLC now owns 232 shares of the healthcare product makers stock worth $32,000 after acquiring an additional 104 shares in the last quarter. Vision Financial Markets LLC bought a new position in shares of Abbott Laboratories in the first quarter worth about $33,000. Finally, Accent Capital Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Abbott Laboratories in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $38,000. 75.18% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Get Abbott Laboratories alerts:

Abbott Laboratories Trading Up 0.5%

Shares of ABT stock opened at $128.70 on Friday. The stock has a 50-day moving average of $129.55 and a 200-day moving average of $131.07. 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 market cap of $223.80 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 16.13, a PEG ratio of 2.36 and a beta of 0.68. Abbott Laboratories has a 1-year low of $110.86 and a 1-year high of $141.23.

Abbott Laboratories Dividend Announcement

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, meeting analysts consensus estimates of $1.30. Abbott Laboratories had a net margin of 31.88% and a return on equity of 17.78%. The business had revenue of $11.37 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $11.40 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $1.21 EPS. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 6.9% compared to the same quarter last year. Abbott Laboratories has set its FY 2025 guidance at 5.120-5.180 EPS. On average, equities research analysts forecast that Abbott Laboratories will post 5.14 earnings per share for the current year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, November 17th. Investors 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 presently 29.57%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of equities analysts recently issued reports on ABT shares. Weiss Ratings reiterated a buy (b) rating on shares of Abbott Laboratories in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Evercore ISI decreased their target price on shares of Abbott Laboratories from $144.00 to $142.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, October 15th. Jefferies Financial Group increased their price target on Abbott Laboratories from $145.00 to $149.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, October 16th. Sanford C. Bernstein boosted their price objective on Abbott Laboratories from $145.00 to $150.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, October 16th. Finally, BTIG Research reiterated a buy rating and issued a $145.00 target price on shares of Abbott Laboratories in a research report on Thursday, November 20th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, seventeen have assigned a Buy rating and four have given a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $147.00.

View Our Latest Report on ABT

Abbott Laboratories Company Profile

(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.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Abbott Laboratories Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Abbott Laboratories and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Employees Retirement System of Texas cut its stake in Harmony Gold Mining Company Limited (NYSE:HMY  Free Report) by 21.4% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 38,199 shares of the mining companys stock after selling 10,422 shares during the period. Employees Retirement System of Texas holdings in Harmony Gold Mining were worth $534,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Several other hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the stock. Russell Investments Group Ltd. raised its position in Harmony Gold Mining by 10.3% in the 2nd quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd. now owns 515,511 shares of the mining companys stock worth $6,947,000 after purchasing an additional 48,133 shares during the last quarter. Advisors Asset Management Inc. increased its stake in shares of Harmony Gold Mining by 3.7% in the 2nd quarter. Advisors Asset Management Inc. now owns 37,122 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $519,000 after buying an additional 1,339 shares during the period. XTX Topco Ltd acquired a new stake in shares of Harmony Gold Mining in the 2nd quarter valued at $1,132,000. Summit Global Investments bought a new stake in shares of Harmony Gold Mining during the second quarter worth $303,000. Finally, Personal CFO Solutions LLC boosted its holdings in Harmony Gold Mining by 4.6% in the second quarter. Personal CFO Solutions LLC now owns 22,767 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $318,000 after acquiring an additional 993 shares during the last quarter. 31.79% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Get Harmony Gold Mining alerts:

Harmony Gold Mining Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE HMY opened at $19.29 on Friday. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $17.82 and a 200 day moving average price of $15.77. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.04, a quick ratio of 1.41 and a current ratio of 1.72. Harmony Gold Mining Company Limited has a 52-week low of $7.97 and a 52-week high of $22.25.

Harmony Gold Mining Dividend Announcement

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

The company also recently disclosed a semi-annual dividend, which was paid on Monday, October 20th. Investors of record on Friday, October 10th were given a $0.0893 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Friday, October 10th. This represents a dividend yield of 98.0%.

Several analysts have weighed in on HMY shares. Investec raised Harmony Gold Mining to a hold rating in a report on Friday, October 10th. Hsbc Global Res upgraded shares of Harmony Gold Mining from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Thursday, October 9th. Wall Street Zen raised shares of Harmony Gold Mining from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Saturday, November 22nd. HSBC raised shares of Harmony Gold Mining from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, October 9th. Finally, Weiss Ratings reiterated a buy (b) rating on shares of Harmony Gold Mining in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, two have assigned a Buy rating and two have assigned a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Harmony Gold Mining presently has a consensus rating of Buy and an average target price of $16.00.

Get Our Latest Stock Report on Harmony Gold Mining

About Harmony Gold Mining

(Free Report)

Harmony Gold Mining Company Limited engages in the exploration, extraction, and processing of gold. The company explores for uranium, silver, copper, and molybdenum deposits. It has eight underground operations in the Witwatersrand Basin; an open-pit mine on the Kraaipan Greenstone Belt; and various surface source operations in South Africa.

Read More

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding HMY? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Harmony Gold Mining Company Limited (NYSE:HMY  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Harmony Gold Mining Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Harmony Gold Mining and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Quadrant Capital Group LLC lifted its position in shares of Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (NYSE:CM  Free Report) (TSE:CM) by 8.6% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 30,582 shares of the banks stock after acquiring an additional 2,421 shares during the quarter. Quadrant Capital Group LLCs holdings in Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce were worth $2,167,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the company. Truvestments Capital LLC acquired a new position in Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce during the first quarter worth $32,000. Ameritas Advisory Services LLC purchased a new position in shares of Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce in the second quarter valued at $34,000. Atlantic Union Bankshares Corp acquired a new position in shares of Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce during the 2nd quarter worth $35,000. MAI Capital Management boosted its position in shares of Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce by 57.5% in the 2nd quarter. MAI Capital Management now owns 737 shares of the banks stock worth $52,000 after buying an additional 269 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Penserra Capital Management LLC grew its stake in Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce by 1,177.8% in the 2nd quarter. Penserra Capital Management LLC now owns 1,035 shares of the banks stock valued at $72,000 after acquiring an additional 954 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 49.88% of the companys stock.

Get Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce alerts:

Analysts Set New Price Targets

CM has been the subject of several recent research reports. Royal Bank Of Canada raised their target price on shares of Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce from $112.00 to $113.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Friday, August 29th. Weiss Ratings reissued a buy (b) rating on shares of Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Raymond James Financial started coverage on Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce in a research note on Tuesday. They issued a market perform rating on the stock. Finally, Wall Street Zen upgraded Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Monday, November 3rd. Four investment 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 company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $107.50.

Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:CM opened at $85.64 on Friday. The company has a market cap of $79.54 billion, a P/E ratio of 14.47, a P/E/G ratio of 1.76 and a beta of 1.03. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $82.63 and a 200-day simple moving average of $75.69. Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce has a 52 week low of $53.62 and a 52 week high of $87.37. The company has a quick ratio of 1.04, a current ratio of 1.04 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.14.

Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (NYSE:CM  Get Free Report) (TSE:CM) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, August 28th. The bank reported $1.57 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.43 by $0.14. The firm had revenue of $5.24 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.12 billion. Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce had a return on equity of 14.67% and a net margin of 12.94%.The firms quarterly revenue was up 3.3% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the company earned $1.93 EPS. Equities research analysts forecast that Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce will post 5.5 EPS for the current year.

Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce Profile

(Free Report)

Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, a diversified financial institution, provides various financial products and services to personal, business, public sector, and institutional clients in Canada, the United States, and internationally. The company operates through Canadian Personal and Business Banking; Canadian Commercial Banking and Wealth Management; U.S.

Featured Articles

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (NYSE:CM  Free Report) (TSE:CM).

Receive News & Ratings for Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Quadrant Capital Group LLC lifted its position in shares of Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO  Free Report) by 34.9% during the second quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 35,161 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 9,094 shares during the period. Quadrant Capital Group LLCs holdings in Altria Group were worth $2,062,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its holdings in Altria Group by 1.0% during the second quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 159,717,148 shares of the companys stock worth $9,364,216,000 after buying an additional 1,599,923 shares during the last quarter. TigerOak Management L.L.C. grew its position in shares of Altria Group by 43.0% during the 2nd quarter. TigerOak Management L.L.C. now owns 13,005 shares of the companys stock valued at $762,000 after acquiring an additional 3,908 shares during the period. VIRGINIA RETIREMENT SYSTEMS ET Al purchased a new stake in shares of Altria Group during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $126,471,000. Central Valley Advisors LLC bought a new stake in shares of Altria Group in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $1,715,000. Finally, Invst LLC raised its holdings in shares of Altria Group by 252.0% in the 1st quarter. Invst LLC now owns 16,188 shares of the companys stock worth $972,000 after purchasing an additional 11,589 shares during the period. 57.41% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Get Altria Group alerts:

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several brokerages have weighed in on MO. Barclays increased their price objective on Altria Group from $49.00 to $57.00 and gave the company an underweight rating in a report on Wednesday, August 6th. Bank of America upped their price target on Altria Group from $64.00 to $72.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Friday, August 22nd. Weiss Ratings reissued a buy (b) rating on shares of Altria Group in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Stifel Nicolaus set a $72.00 price objective on Altria Group in a research note on Thursday, August 21st. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group increased their target price on shares of Altria Group from $65.00 to $72.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 1st. Four 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 companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $62.33.

Altria Group Trading Up 0.7%

Shares of NYSE:MO opened at $58.76 on Friday. The company has a 50 day moving average of $61.98 and a 200 day moving average of $61.74. The stock has a market cap of $98.63 billion, a P/E ratio of 11.36, a P/E/G ratio of 3.45 and a beta of 0.51. Altria Group, Inc. has a 12 month low of $50.08 and a 12 month high of $68.60.

Altria Group (NYSE:MO  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The company reported $1.45 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.44 by $0.01. The business had revenue of $5.25 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $5.31 billion. Altria Group had a net margin of 37.24% and a negative return on equity of 295.26%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was down 3.0% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $1.38 EPS. Altria Group has set its FY 2025 guidance at 5.370-5.45 EPS. On average, equities analysts forecast that Altria Group, Inc. will post 5.32 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Altria Group declared that its board has approved a stock buyback program on Thursday, October 30th that allows the company to buyback $2.00 billion in shares. This buyback authorization allows the company to purchase up to 1.9% of its stock through open market purchases. Stock buyback programs are typically an indication that the companys leadership believes its shares are undervalued.

Altria Group Company 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.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Altria Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Altria Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Quadrant Capital Group LLC cut its position in Toronto Dominion Bank (The) (NYSE:TD  Free Report) (TSE:TD) by 21.1% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 36,820 shares of the banks stock after selling 9,876 shares during the quarter. Quadrant Capital Group LLCs holdings in Toronto Dominion Bank were worth $2,704,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other institutional investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Toronto Dominion Bank by 93.9% in the first quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 12,216,411 shares of the banks stock valued at $732,252,000 after acquiring an additional 5,917,078 shares during the period. Federation des caisses Desjardins du Quebec increased its holdings in shares of Toronto Dominion Bank by 48.9% in the 1st quarter. Federation des caisses Desjardins du Quebec now owns 14,785,565 shares of the banks stock valued at $886,174,000 after acquiring an additional 4,853,498 shares during the period. Canada Pension Plan Investment Board raised its position in Toronto Dominion Bank by 81.6% in the 1st quarter. Canada Pension Plan Investment Board now owns 10,524,446 shares of the banks stock valued at $630,746,000 after purchasing an additional 4,729,657 shares during the last quarter. Picton Mahoney Asset Management acquired a new stake in Toronto Dominion Bank during the 2nd quarter worth $267,475,000. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. grew its position in Toronto Dominion Bank by 38.6% during the 1st quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 9,994,402 shares of the banks stock worth $599,064,000 after purchasing an additional 2,780,984 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 52.37% of the companys stock.

Get Toronto Dominion Bank alerts:

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of equities research analysts have recently commented on the stock. Raymond James Financial raised shares of Toronto Dominion Bank to a hold rating in a report on Monday. Zacks Research cut Toronto Dominion Bank from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, August 13th. Jefferies Financial Group downgraded Toronto Dominion Bank from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Tuesday. Desjardins upgraded Toronto Dominion Bank from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, August 13th. Finally, Wall Street Zen raised Toronto Dominion Bank from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, November 15th. Five equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and four have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Toronto Dominion Bank has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $93.00.

Toronto Dominion Bank Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:TD opened at $83.40 on Friday. The firm has a market capitalization of $140.91 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 9.74, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.68 and a beta of 0.79. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.09, a current ratio of 1.02 and a quick ratio of 1.02. The businesss 50 day simple moving average is $80.75 and its 200-day simple moving average is $75.28. Toronto Dominion Bank has a 12 month low of $51.25 and a 12 month high of $83.57.

Toronto Dominion Bank (NYSE:TD  Get Free Report) (TSE:TD) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, August 28th. The bank reported $1.91 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.46 by $0.45. The business had revenue of $10.12 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $13.73 billion. Toronto Dominion Bank had a return on equity of 13.59% and a net margin of 16.40%.The businesss revenue was up 7.9% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $2.05 EPS. As a group, equities analysts forecast that Toronto Dominion Bank will post 5.48 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Toronto Dominion Bank Profile

(Free Report)

The Toronto-Dominion Bank, together with its subsidiaries, provides various financial products and services in Canada, the United States, and internationally. It operates through four segments: Canadian Personal and Commercial Banking, U.S. Retail, Wealth Management and Insurance, and Wholesale Banking.

Featured Stories

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding TD? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Toronto Dominion Bank (The) (NYSE:TD  Free Report) (TSE:TD).

Receive News & Ratings for Toronto Dominion Bank Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Toronto Dominion Bank and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Quadrant Capital Group LLC increased its position in Welltower Inc. (NYSE:WELL  Free Report) by 14.1% in the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 15,785 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after acquiring an additional 1,956 shares during the period. Quadrant Capital Group LLCs holdings in Welltower were worth $2,427,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. SouthState Corp boosted its holdings in Welltower by 704.8% in the first quarter. SouthState Corp now owns 169 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $26,000 after purchasing an additional 148 shares during the last quarter. Wealth Preservation Advisors LLC acquired a new position in shares of Welltower in the 1st quarter valued at about $27,000. N.E.W. Advisory Services LLC acquired a new position in shares of Welltower in the 1st quarter valued at about $32,000. WPG Advisers LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Welltower in the first quarter worth about $34,000. Finally, Saudi Central Bank acquired a new stake in Welltower during the first quarter worth about $38,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 94.80% of the companys stock.

Get Welltower alerts:

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several equities analysts have recently weighed in on WELL shares. Raymond James Financial reaffirmed a strong-buy rating on shares of Welltower in a report on Tuesday, September 2nd. National Bankshares set a $246.00 price target on shares of Welltower in a research report on Friday, October 17th. Loop Capital set a $196.00 price objective on shares of Welltower in a research report on Wednesday, October 29th. Morgan Stanley increased their target price on shares of Welltower from $170.00 to $200.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Thursday, November 20th. Finally, KeyCorp raised their target price on Welltower from $150.00 to $200.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, September 23rd. One 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 issued a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, Welltower currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $193.93.

Welltower Stock Performance

NYSE:WELL opened at $206.33 on Friday. The companys 50-day moving average is $182.01 and its two-hundred day moving average is $166.70. Welltower Inc. has a 1-year low of $123.11 and a 1-year high of $207.01. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.43, a current ratio of 5.47 and a quick ratio of 4.19. The firm has a market capitalization of $141.61 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 142.30, a PEG ratio of 1.93 and a beta of 0.92.

Welltower (NYSE:WELL  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Monday, October 27th. The real estate investment trust reported $1.34 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.30 by $0.04. The firm had revenue of $2.69 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.70 billion. Welltower had a net margin of 9.69% and a return on equity of 2.71%. Welltowers revenue was up 30.7% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $1.11 EPS. Welltower has set its FY 2025 guidance at 5.240-5.300 EPS. Analysts forecast that Welltower Inc. will post 4.88 EPS for the current year.

Welltower Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, November 20th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, November 11th were given a dividend of $0.74 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, November 10th. This represents a $2.96 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.4%. Welltowers payout ratio is currently 204.14%.

Welltower Company Profile

(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.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Welltower Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Welltower and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Employees Retirement System of Texas purchased a new stake in shares of Lennar Corporation (NYSE:LEN  Free Report) in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The institutional investor purchased 1,942 shares of the construction companys stock, valued at approximately $215,000.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in LEN. Kingstone Capital Partners Texas LLC purchased a new stake in Lennar during the second quarter valued at approximately $424,950,000. The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company grew its position in shares of Lennar by 45.4% during the 1st quarter. The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company now owns 8,894,125 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $1,020,866,000 after acquiring an additional 2,777,567 shares during the period. Eminence Capital LP increased its stake in shares of Lennar by 130.8% in the 1st quarter. Eminence Capital LP now owns 1,581,489 shares of the construction companys stock worth $181,523,000 after purchasing an additional 896,264 shares in the last quarter. Brave Warrior Advisors LLC raised its holdings in Lennar by 23.4% in the 1st quarter. Brave Warrior Advisors LLC now owns 2,189,608 shares of the construction companys stock worth $251,323,000 after purchasing an additional 415,218 shares during the period. Finally, Ceredex Value Advisors LLC purchased a new position in Lennar during the first quarter valued at $38,125,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 81.10% of the companys stock.

Get Lennar alerts:

Lennar Trading Up 0.2%

Shares of LEN opened at $131.31 on Friday. The firm has a market cap of $33.49 billion, a P/E ratio of 12.98, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 5.78 and a beta of 1.33. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.15, a current ratio of 4.49 and a quick ratio of 0.68. Lennar Corporation has a 1 year low of $98.42 and a 1 year high of $177.15. The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $123.83 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $120.06.

Lennar Announces Dividend

Lennar ( NYSE:LEN Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, September 18th. The construction company reported $2.00 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $2.14 by ($0.14). The company had revenue of $8.81 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $9.01 billion. Lennar had a return on equity of 11.09% and a net margin of 7.72%.Lennars revenue was down 6.4% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $3.90 EPS. On average, equities analysts expect that Lennar Corporation will post 12.48 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, October 27th. Stockholders of record on Friday, October 10th were given a dividend of $0.50 per share. The ex-dividend date was Friday, October 10th. This represents a $2.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.5%. Lennars dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 19.76%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of analysts have commented on LEN shares. Zacks Research cut Lennar from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 7th. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c) rating on shares of Lennar in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Evercore ISI lowered their price target on shares of Lennar from $118.00 to $114.00 and set an in-line rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, October 7th. Royal Bank Of Canada increased their price objective on shares of Lennar from $98.00 to $106.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a research note on Monday, September 22nd. Finally, JMP Securities lifted their target price on shares of Lennar from $130.00 to $140.00 and gave the company a market outperform rating in a research note on Monday, September 22nd. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, three have assigned a Buy rating, thirteen have issued a Hold rating and two have issued a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $121.75.

View Our Latest Stock Report on Lennar

Lennar Company Profile

(Free Report)

Lennar Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, operates as a homebuilder primarily under the Lennar brand in the United States. It operates through Homebuilding East, Homebuilding Central, Homebuilding Texas, Homebuilding West, Financial Services, Multifamily, and Lennar Other segments. The companys homebuilding operations include the construction and sale of single-family attached and detached homes, as well as the purchase, development, and sale of residential land; and development, construction, and management of multifamily rental properties.

Featured Stories

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding LEN? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Lennar Corporation (NYSE:LEN  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Lennar Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Lennar and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. grew its holdings in shares of Vanguard Information Technology ETF (NYSEARCA:VGT  Free Report) by 6.0% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 660,567 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after purchasing an additional 37,162 shares during the period. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. owned approximately 0.47% of Vanguard Information Technology ETF worth $438,141,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in VGT. Wheelhouse Advisory Group LLC lifted its stake in shares of Vanguard Information Technology ETF by 6.1% during the second quarter. Wheelhouse Advisory Group LLC now owns 22,848 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $15,155,000 after buying an additional 1,317 shares during the period. Endowment Wealth Management Inc. purchased a new position in Vanguard Information Technology ETF in the 2nd quarter worth $289,000. Americana Partners LLC raised its stake in Vanguard Information Technology ETF by 10.1% in the 2nd quarter. Americana Partners LLC now owns 1,631 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $1,082,000 after acquiring an additional 149 shares during the last quarter. American National Bank & Trust lifted its position in Vanguard Information Technology ETF by 173.3% during the 2nd quarter. American National Bank & Trust now owns 164 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $109,000 after acquiring an additional 104 shares during the period. Finally, Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria S.A. grew its stake in Vanguard Information Technology ETF by 20.9% during the 2nd quarter. Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria S.A. now owns 6,713 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $4,442,000 after purchasing an additional 1,161 shares during the last quarter.

Get Vanguard Information Technology ETF alerts:

Vanguard Information Technology ETF Stock Performance

Shares of VGT stock opened at $746.93 on Friday. The stocks 50-day simple moving average is $757.30 and its 200-day simple moving average is $697.59. The firm has a market capitalization of $110.51 billion, a PE ratio of 34.55 and a beta of 1.25. Vanguard Information Technology ETF has a fifty-two week low of $451.00 and a fifty-two week high of $806.99.

About Vanguard Information Technology ETF

Vanguard Information Technology ETF seeks to track the investment performance of the MSCI US Investable Market Information Technology 25/50 Index, a benchmark of large-, mid-, and small-cap United States stocks in the information technology sector, as classified under the Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS).

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Vanguard Information Technology ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Vanguard Information Technology ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
WARSAW, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Polish National Prosecutor's Office has issued wanted notices for two Ukrainian men suspected of carrying out sabotage attacks on a major railway line earlier this month, a spokesperson said Friday.

A wanted notice was issued for 41-year-old Yevhenii Ivanov and 39-year-old Oleksander Kononov, Przemyslaw Nowak, spokesperson for the National Prosecutor's Office, said on social media platform X.

The Warsaw District Court on Thursday approved prosecutors' request for the two suspects to be placed in temporary detention, he said, adding that the execution of the search has been assigned to the police.

Both suspects had fled to Belarus, Polish media reported.

According to local media, the two men are accused of damaging tracks with an explosive device near the village of Mika on the Warsaw-Lublin rail line in mid-November and of carrying out another act of sabotage near Pulawy on the same route. The latter incident damaged overhead power lines and forced a passenger train carrying 475 people to stop. 
Level Four Advisory Services LLC lifted its position in shares of EOG Resources, Inc. (NYSE:EOG  Free Report) by 3.1% in the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 65,581 shares of the energy exploration companys stock after purchasing an additional 1,999 shares during the quarter. Level Four Advisory Services LLCs holdings in EOG Resources were worth $7,844,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

A number of other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Nuveen LLC purchased a new position in EOG Resources in the 1st quarter valued at about $451,908,000. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. lifted its position in shares of EOG Resources by 6.5% in the 1st quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 19,380,866 shares of the energy exploration companys stock worth $2,485,402,000 after buying an additional 1,188,552 shares during the last quarter. Prudential Financial Inc. boosted its stake in EOG Resources by 282.3% in the second quarter. Prudential Financial Inc. now owns 1,546,058 shares of the energy exploration companys stock valued at $184,924,000 after acquiring an additional 1,141,680 shares during the period. Jacobs Levy Equity Management Inc. acquired a new stake in EOG Resources in the first quarter worth $81,752,000. Finally, LSV Asset Management increased its stake in shares of EOG Resources by 290.5% in the first quarter. LSV Asset Management now owns 687,446 shares of the energy exploration companys stock valued at $88,158,000 after purchasing an additional 511,418 shares during the period. 89.91% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Get EOG Resources alerts:

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several research analysts have issued reports on EOG shares. Scotiabank reaffirmed a sector perform rating and issued a $130.00 price target on shares of EOG Resources in a report on Friday, September 26th. The Goldman Sachs Group lowered their target price on EOG Resources from $130.00 to $125.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, October 15th. Jefferies Financial Group set a $145.00 price target on EOG Resources in a research note on Sunday, October 12th. Wells Fargo & Company reduced their price target on EOG Resources from $127.00 to $126.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, November 11th. Finally, Argus downgraded EOG Resources from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Monday, August 25th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eleven have given a Buy rating and sixteen have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $140.33.

EOG Resources Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE EOG opened at $106.27 on Friday. The businesss 50-day simple moving average is $108.90 and its 200-day simple moving average is $115.24. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.12, a quick ratio of 1.61 and a current ratio of 1.79. EOG Resources, Inc. has a 52 week low of $102.52 and a 52 week high of $138.18. The firm has a market cap of $57.66 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.33, a P/E/G ratio of 8.20 and a beta of 0.72.

EOG Resources (NYSE:EOG  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, November 6th. The energy exploration company reported $2.71 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.42 by $0.29. EOG Resources had a return on equity of 20.51% and a net margin of 25.25%.The firm had revenue of $5.85 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $5.48 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $2.89 earnings per share. The companys revenue was down 2.0% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, equities research analysts expect that EOG Resources, Inc. will post 11.47 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

EOG Resources Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, January 30th. Investors of record on Friday, January 16th will be issued a dividend of $1.02 per share. This represents a $4.08 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.8%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, January 16th. EOG Resourcess dividend payout ratio is currently 40.64%.

EOG Resources 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.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for EOG Resources Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for EOG Resources and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Scotia Capital Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Thomson Reuters Co. (NYSE:TRI  Free Report) (TSE:TRI) by 0.6% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 251,948 shares of the business services providers stock after purchasing an additional 1,568 shares during the quarter. Scotia Capital Inc. owned about 0.06% of Thomson Reuters worth $50,675,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other large investors also recently modified their holdings of the company. Curio Wealth LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Thomson Reuters by 16,200.0% during the 2nd quarter. Curio Wealth LLC now owns 163 shares of the business services providers stock worth $33,000 after buying an additional 162 shares during the period. Westside Investment Management Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Thomson Reuters during the second quarter worth approximately $34,000. Ameritas Advisory Services LLC acquired a new position in shares of Thomson Reuters in the second quarter valued at approximately $37,000. AlphaCore Capital LLC acquired a new stake in Thomson Reuters during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $39,000. Finally, SBI Securities Co. Ltd. boosted its stake in Thomson Reuters by 30.9% in the 2nd quarter. SBI Securities Co. Ltd. now owns 309 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $62,000 after purchasing an additional 73 shares during the period. 17.31% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Get Thomson Reuters alerts:

Thomson Reuters Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:TRI opened at $133.94 on Friday. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $149.71 and a 200-day moving average of $176.04. Thomson Reuters Co. has a 12 month low of $131.11 and a 12 month high of $218.42. The company has a current ratio of 1.02, a quick ratio of 0.94 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.15. The stock has a market capitalization of $59.58 billion, a PE ratio of 27.39, a PEG ratio of 5.67 and a beta of 0.74.

Thomson Reuters Dividend Announcement

Thomson Reuters ( NYSE:TRI Get Free Report ) (TSE:TRI) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, November 4th. The business services provider reported $0.85 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.81 by $0.04. Thomson Reuters had a net margin of 30.45% and a return on equity of 14.62%. The business had revenue of $1.80 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.78 billion. During the same period last year, the firm posted $0.80 earnings per share. The firms quarterly revenue was up 3.4% compared to the same quarter last year. Thomson Reuters has set its FY 2025 guidance at EPS. On average, equities research analysts predict that Thomson Reuters Co. will post 3.89 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 10th. Investors of record on Tuesday, November 18th will be given a dividend of $0.595 per share. This represents a $2.38 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.8%. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, November 18th. Thomson Reuterss dividend payout ratio is currently 61.18%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

TRI has been the topic of several recent research reports. Scotiabank reiterated an outperform rating and set a $189.00 price objective (down previously from $200.00) on shares of Thomson Reuters in a research report on Wednesday, November 5th. Wells Fargo & Company raised shares of Thomson Reuters from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating and raised their price target for the stock from $187.00 to $212.00 in a research report on Tuesday, September 9th. BMO Capital Markets reiterated an outperform rating on shares of Thomson Reuters in a research note on Wednesday, November 5th. The Goldman Sachs Group set a $186.00 target price on shares of Thomson Reuters and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 15th. Finally, Morgan Stanley set a $172.00 price target on shares of Thomson Reuters in a research report on Tuesday, November 4th. Ten analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and four have issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Thomson Reuters has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $195.27.

Check Out Our Latest Research Report on TRI

About Thomson Reuters

(Free Report)

Thomson Reuters Corporation engages in the provision of business information services in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia Pacific. It operates in five segments: Legal Professionals, Corporates, Tax & Accounting Professionals, Reuters News, and Global Print. The Legal Professionals segment offers research and workflow products focusing on legal research and integrated legal workflow solutions that combine content, tools, and analytics to law firms and governments.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding TRI? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Thomson Reuters Co. (NYSE:TRI  Free Report) (TSE:TRI).

Receive News & Ratings for Thomson Reuters Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Thomson Reuters and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Scotia Capital Inc. trimmed its holdings in shares of Pimco Total Return ETF (NYSEARCA:BOND  Free Report) by 17.9% in the second quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 377,199 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after selling 82,118 shares during the quarter. Scotia Capital Inc. owned 0.61% of Pimco Total Return ETF worth $34,770,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of BOND. Banque Transatlantique SA purchased a new stake in shares of Pimco Total Return ETF during the 1st quarter valued at $36,000. SVB Wealth LLC bought a new position in Pimco Total Return ETF during the first quarter valued at about $39,000. Assetmark Inc. grew its position in Pimco Total Return ETF by 9,566.7% during the first quarter. Assetmark Inc. now owns 580 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $54,000 after buying an additional 574 shares during the period. Maseco LLP purchased a new stake in Pimco Total Return ETF during the second quarter worth about $60,000. Finally, Pandora Wealth Inc. purchased a new stake in Pimco Total Return ETF during the first quarter worth about $86,000.

Get Pimco Total Return ETF alerts:

Pimco Total Return ETF Stock Up 0.1%

BOND opened at $94.15 on Friday. The stock has a market cap of $6.31 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 1.60 and a beta of 0.27. Pimco Total Return ETF has a twelve month low of $88.95 and a twelve month high of $94.56. The companys 50-day moving average price is $93.63 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $92.32.

Pimco Total Return ETF Profile

The PIMCO Active Bond Exchange-Traded Fund (BOND) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the Barclays U.S. Aggregate index. The fund is an actively managed portfolio that aims to maintain a consistent level of dividend income by investing in a broad array of fixed income sectors and utilizing income efficient implementation strategies.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for Pimco Total Return ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Pimco Total Return ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Grantham Mayo Van Otterloo & Co. LLC grew its position in Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC) by 1.1% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund owned 8,469,766 shares of the financial services providers stock after buying an additional 88,358 shares during the period. Wells Fargo & Company makes up about 2.0% of Grantham Mayo Van Otterloo & Co. LLCs investment portfolio, making the stock its 18th largest holding. Grantham Mayo Van Otterloo & Co. LLC owned about 0.26% of Wells Fargo & Company worth $678,598,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Clarkston Capital Partners LLC purchased a new position in Wells Fargo & Company in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $212,000. Groupama Asset Managment increased its holdings in shares of Wells Fargo & Company by 10.6% in the 2nd quarter. Groupama Asset Managment now owns 163,557 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $13,014,000 after purchasing an additional 15,669 shares in the last quarter. Johnson Financial Group Inc. raised its stake in shares of Wells Fargo & Company by 5.2% in the second quarter. Johnson Financial Group Inc. now owns 34,437 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $2,759,000 after purchasing an additional 1,693 shares during the last quarter. Korea Investment CORP lifted its holdings in shares of Wells Fargo & Company by 8.7% during the second quarter. Korea Investment CORP now owns 3,569,270 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $285,970,000 after purchasing an additional 286,943 shares in the last quarter. Finally, United Super Pty Ltd in its capacity as Trustee for the Construction & Building Unions Superannuation Fund boosted its position in shares of Wells Fargo & Company by 144.5% during the second quarter. United Super Pty Ltd in its capacity as Trustee for the Construction & Building Unions Superannuation Fund now owns 264,219 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $21,169,000 after buying an additional 156,174 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 75.90% of the companys stock.

Get Wells Fargo & Company alerts:

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of equities analysts have weighed in on WFC shares. Cowen reissued a hold rating on shares of Wells Fargo & Company in a research report on Wednesday, October 15th. Morgan Stanley increased their price objective on shares of Wells Fargo & Company from $95.00 to $97.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 15th. Weiss Ratings upgraded shares of Wells Fargo & Company from a hold (c) rating to a buy (b) rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods increased their price objective on shares of Wells Fargo & Company from $85.00 to $92.00 and gave the stock a market perform rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 15th. Finally, Bank of America upped their target price on shares of Wells Fargo & Company from $92.00 to $100.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, October 15th. Eleven equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and eight have given a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Wells Fargo & Company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $89.57.

Wells Fargo & Company Trading Up 0.6%

Shares of WFC stock opened at $85.61 on Friday. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $84.24 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $80.58. Wells Fargo & Company has a 52-week low of $58.42 and a 52-week high of $88.64. The firm has a market capitalization of $268.75 billion, a PE ratio of 14.08, a PEG ratio of 1.18 and a beta of 1.22. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.07, a quick ratio of 0.84 and a current ratio of 0.84.

Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, October 14th. The financial services provider reported $1.73 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.55 by $0.18. Wells Fargo & Company had a net margin of 17.18% and a return on equity of 12.51%. The business had revenue of $21.44 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $21.11 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $1.42 EPS. The businesss revenue was up 5.3% on a year-over-year basis. On average, analysts predict that Wells Fargo & Company will post 5.89 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Wells Fargo & Company Dividend Announcement

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 1st. Investors of record on Friday, November 7th will be paid a dividend of $0.45 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 7th. This represents a $1.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.1%. Wells Fargo & Companys payout ratio is currently 29.61%.

Wells Fargo & Company Profile

(Free Report)

Wells Fargo & Co is a diversified and community-based financial services company, which engages in the provision of banking, insurance, investments, mortgage, and consumer and commercial finance products and services. It operates through the following segments: Consumer Banking and Lending, Commercial Banking, Corporate and Investment Banking, and Wealth and Investment Management.

Read More

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding WFC? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Wells Fargo & Company Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Wells Fargo & Company and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Grantham Mayo Van Otterloo & Co. LLC cut its stake in Capital One Financial Corporation (NYSE:COF) by 16.0% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 211,123 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 40,148 shares during the period. Grantham Mayo Van Otterloo & Co. LLCs holdings in Capital One Financial were worth $44,919,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of the stock. Kingstone Capital Partners Texas LLC raised its holdings in shares of Capital One Financial by 588,668.3% during the second quarter. Kingstone Capital Partners Texas LLC now owns 117,447,497 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $24,988,129,000 after purchasing an additional 117,427,549 shares during the period. Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its holdings in Capital One Financial by 74.8% in the second quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 56,380,913 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $11,995,603,000 after acquiring an additional 24,129,990 shares in the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC raised its position in shares of Capital One Financial by 64.1% during 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 purchasing an additional 5,474,328 shares during the period. Boston Partners bought a new stake in shares of Capital One Financial in the second quarter valued at $534,777,000. Finally, Bank of New York Mellon Corp lifted its position in shares of Capital One Financial by 41.3% during the 2nd quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 7,011,073 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,491,676,000 after buying an additional 2,050,010 shares during the last quarter. 89.84% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Get Capital One Financial alerts:

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of equities research analysts recently issued reports on the company. Rothschild & Co Redburn began coverage on Capital One Financial in a research note on Friday, August 1st. They issued a buy rating and a $290.00 price objective on the stock. The Goldman Sachs Group boosted their price target on shares of Capital One Financial from $266.00 to $276.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Weiss Ratings reiterated a hold (c) rating on shares of Capital One Financial in a research note on Tuesday. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their price target on Capital One Financial from $235.00 to $237.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Finally, UBS Group lowered their target price on shares of Capital One Financial from $270.00 to $266.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, October 7th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, sixteen have given a Buy rating and seven have assigned a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $261.63.

Capital One Financial Stock Performance

Capital One Financial stock opened at $217.60 on Friday. Capital One Financial Corporation has a fifty-two week low of $143.22 and a fifty-two week high of $232.45. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.45, a quick ratio of 1.03 and a current ratio of 1.03. The stock has a market cap of $138.33 billion, a P/E ratio of 91.81, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.70 and a beta of 1.19. The firms fifty day moving average price is $215.76 and its 200-day moving average price is $212.18.

Capital One Financial (NYSE:COF  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Monday, November 3rd. The financial services provider reported $5.95 EPS for the quarter. Capital One Financial had a return on equity of 10.94% and a net margin of 2.24%.The business had revenue of $15.46 billion for the quarter. On average, equities research analysts expect that Capital One Financial Corporation will post 15.65 earnings per share for the current fiscal 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 1.5%. This is an increase 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 135.02%.

Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, insider Frank G. LapradeIii sold 17,840 shares of the stock in a transaction dated 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 $10,727,379.45. This represents a 26.97% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this link. Also, insider Neal Blinde sold 43,200 shares of Capital One Financial stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, November 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $221.83, for a total value of $9,583,056.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider directly owned 73,020 shares in the company, valued at $16,198,026.60. This trade represents a 37.17% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. Insiders have sold a total of 274,013 shares of company stock worth $61,045,903 in the last ninety days. Corporate insiders own 1.26% of the companys stock.

About Capital One Financial

(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.

Read More

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding COF? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Capital One Financial Corporation (NYSE:COF  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Capital One Financial Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Capital One Financial and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Grantham Mayo Van Otterloo & Co. LLC increased its holdings in shares of British American Tobacco p.l.c. (NYSE:BTI  Free Report) by 1.5% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 2,482,106 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 36,072 shares during the period. Grantham Mayo Van Otterloo & Co. LLC owned approximately 0.12% of British American Tobacco worth $117,478,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. Orbis Allan Gray Ltd grew its stake in shares of British American Tobacco by 20.4% in the 1st quarter. Orbis Allan Gray Ltd now owns 12,021,231 shares of the companys stock worth $497,318,000 after buying an additional 2,040,011 shares during the last quarter. GQG Partners LLC increased its position in shares of British American Tobacco by 59.8% during the first quarter. GQG Partners LLC now owns 9,598,465 shares of the companys stock valued at $397,089,000 after acquiring an additional 3,590,916 shares in the last quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. raised its holdings in British American Tobacco by 93.0% in the 2nd quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 2,792,258 shares of the companys stock worth $132,158,000 after acquiring an additional 1,345,175 shares during the last quarter. Newport Trust Company LLC boosted its stake in British American Tobacco by 1.1% during the 1st quarter. Newport Trust Company LLC now owns 2,774,460 shares of the companys stock valued at $114,779,000 after purchasing an additional 31,205 shares during the last quarter. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased its holdings in shares of British American Tobacco by 201.6% in the 2nd quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 2,748,324 shares of the companys stock worth $130,078,000 after purchasing an additional 1,837,106 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 16.16% of the companys stock.

Get British American Tobacco alerts:

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

BTI has been the topic of several recent analyst reports. Morgan Stanley reaffirmed an underweight rating and set a $40.00 price objective on shares of British American Tobacco in a research report on Friday, August 15th. Argus raised shares of British American Tobacco from a hold rating to a buy rating and set a $62.00 price target on the stock in a report on Monday, September 8th. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c+) rating on shares of British American Tobacco in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada cut shares of British American Tobacco from a sector perform rating to an underperform rating in a report on Tuesday, September 2nd. Five equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, one has given a Hold rating and two have assigned a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $51.00.

British American Tobacco Stock Up 2.0%

Shares of BTI stock opened at $57.80 on Friday. The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $53.10 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $51.89. British American Tobacco p.l.c. has a 12 month low of $34.82 and a 12 month high of $59.29. The company has a quick ratio of 0.55, a current ratio of 0.87 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.68.

British American Tobacco Company Profile

(Free Report)

British American Tobacco p.l.c. engages in the provision of tobacco and nicotine products to consumers worldwide. It also offers vapour, heated, and modern oral nicotine products; combustible cigarettes; and traditional oral products, such as snus and moist snuff. The company offers its products under the Vuse, glo, Velo, Grizzly, Kodiak, Dunhill, Kent, Lucky Strike, Pall Mall, Rothmans, Camel, Natural American Spirit, Newport, Vogue, Viceroy, Kool, Peter Stuyvesant, Craven A, State Express 555 and Shuang Xi brands.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BTI? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for British American Tobacco p.l.c. (NYSE:BTI  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for British American Tobacco Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for British American Tobacco and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Crake Asset Management LLP reduced its position in shares of Dell Technologies Inc. (NYSE:DELL  Free Report) by 29.7% during the second quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The firm owned 525,774 shares of the technology companys stock after selling 222,492 shares during the quarter. Dell Technologies comprises about 3.4% of Crake Asset Management LLPs holdings, making the stock its 9th largest holding. Crake Asset Management LLPs holdings in Dell Technologies were worth $64,460,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other large investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its holdings in Dell Technologies by 4.1% in the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 29,106,218 shares of the technology companys stock worth $2,653,032,000 after buying an additional 1,145,658 shares in the last quarter. Boston Partners increased its position in shares of Dell Technologies by 15.0% during the second quarter. Boston Partners now owns 5,904,843 shares of the technology companys stock worth $725,586,000 after acquiring an additional 771,966 shares during the last quarter. Deutsche Bank AG lifted its stake in shares of Dell Technologies by 38.1% in the first quarter. Deutsche Bank AG now owns 4,141,618 shares of the technology companys stock worth $377,508,000 after acquiring an additional 1,142,012 shares in the last quarter. Alkeon Capital Management LLC boosted its holdings in Dell Technologies by 41.4% in the first quarter. Alkeon Capital Management LLC now owns 3,177,809 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $289,657,000 after purchasing an additional 931,032 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Invesco Ltd. grew its stake in Dell Technologies by 20.5% during the 1st quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 2,952,829 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $269,150,000 after purchasing an additional 502,764 shares in the last quarter. 76.37% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Get Dell Technologies alerts:

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Dell Technologies news, Director V (Gp) L.L.C. Slta sold 565,000 shares of the 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 sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through this link. Also, Director Iv (Gp) L.L.C. Slta sold 824,999 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Monday, September 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $135.98, for a total transaction of $112,183,364.02. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Over the last 90 days, insiders have sold 4,537,755 shares of company stock valued at $642,644,973. 42.00% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

DELL has been the topic of a number of recent analyst reports. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their target price on Dell Technologies from $165.00 to $170.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Monday, November 17th. Zacks Research cut shares of Dell Technologies from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, November 18th. Susquehanna increased their price objective on shares of Dell Technologies from $120.00 to $130.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Argus boosted their target price on shares of Dell Technologies from $150.00 to $200.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, October 9th. Finally, Barclays reduced their price target on shares of Dell Technologies from $151.00 to $148.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday. Sixteen analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, eight have assigned a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Dell Technologies presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $161.11.

Get Our Latest Research Report on DELL

Dell Technologies Stock Performance

NYSE DELL opened at $133.33 on Friday. Dell Technologies Inc. has a one year low of $66.25 and a one year high of $168.08. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $143.66 and a 200-day simple moving average of $130.36. The firm has a market capitalization of $89.65 billion, a PE ratio of 17.78, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.01 and a beta of 1.02.

Dell Technologies (NYSE:DELL  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, November 25th. The technology company reported $2.59 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.47 by $0.12. Dell Technologies had a net margin of 5.01% and a negative return on equity of 234.84%. The firm had revenue of $27.01 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $27.26 billion. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $2.15 earnings per share. Dell Technologiess revenue was up 10.8% on a year-over-year basis. Dell Technologies has set its FY 2026 guidance at 9.920-9.920 EPS. Q4 2026 guidance at 3.500-3.500 EPS. Equities analysts forecast that Dell Technologies Inc. will post 6.93 earnings per share for the current year.

Dell Technologies Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, October 31st. Investors of record on Tuesday, October 21st were given a dividend of $0.525 per share. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, October 21st. This represents a $2.10 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.6%. Dell Technologiess payout ratio is currently 30.88%.

Dell Technologies Company Profile

(Free Report)

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).

See Also

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding DELL? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Dell Technologies Inc. (NYSE:DELL  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Dell Technologies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Dell Technologies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
NINE MASTS CAPITAL Ltd acquired a new stake in shares of Edwards Lifesciences Corporation (NYSE:EW  Free Report) during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund acquired 400,000 shares of the medical research companys stock, valued at approximately $31,284,000. Edwards Lifesciences makes up 9.8% of NINE MASTS CAPITAL Ltds investment portfolio, making the stock its 2nd largest position.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of EW. Patrick M Sweeney & Associates Inc. raised its holdings in Edwards Lifesciences by 3.4% during the 2nd quarter. Patrick M Sweeney & Associates Inc. now owns 4,215 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $324,000 after buying an additional 140 shares during the period. United Super Pty Ltd in its capacity as Trustee for the Construction & Building Unions Superannuation Fund raised its holdings in shares of Edwards Lifesciences by 16.9% during the second quarter. United Super Pty Ltd in its capacity as Trustee for the Construction & Building Unions Superannuation Fund now owns 437,403 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $34,209,000 after acquiring an additional 63,284 shares during the period. Quadrant Capital Group LLC raised its holdings in shares of Edwards Lifesciences by 40.2% during the second quarter. Quadrant Capital Group LLC now owns 14,955 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $1,170,000 after acquiring an additional 4,290 shares during the period. Employees Retirement System of Texas bought a new stake in Edwards Lifesciences in the 2nd quarter valued at $5,404,000. Finally, Choreo LLC boosted its stake in Edwards Lifesciences by 3.2% in the 2nd quarter. Choreo LLC now owns 16,579 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $1,297,000 after purchasing an additional 520 shares during the period. 79.46% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Get Edwards Lifesciences alerts:

Edwards Lifesciences Stock Down 0.0%

EW stock opened at $86.78 on Friday. The company has a market cap of $50.36 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 12.49, a P/E/G 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 $87.40. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $79.68 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $78.37. The company has a quick ratio of 3.87, a current ratio of 4.68 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.06.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Edwards Lifesciences ( NYSE:EW Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data 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. Edwards Lifesciences had a return on equity of 15.01% and a net margin of 72.96%.The company had revenue of $1.55 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.49 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $0.67 EPS. 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. Analysts anticipate that Edwards Lifesciences Corporation will post 2.45 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Several analysts have issued reports on EW shares. Royal Bank Of Canada lifted their price target on Edwards Lifesciences from $89.00 to $95.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, October 31st. Wells Fargo & Company increased their price objective on Edwards Lifesciences from $84.00 to $88.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Thursday, August 7th. Truist Financial boosted their target price on Edwards Lifesciences from $87.00 to $90.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a research note on Monday, November 3rd. National Bankshares set a $92.00 price target on Edwards Lifesciences in a research report on Friday, October 31st. Finally, Sanford C. Bernstein reiterated a market perform rating and issued a $90.00 price objective on shares of Edwards Lifesciences in a report on Monday, November 3rd. Three analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, fourteen have assigned a Buy rating, ten have given a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $91.39.

Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on Edwards Lifesciences

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other news, VP Daniel J. Lippis sold 1,020 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $82.55, for a total value of $84,201.00. Following the sale, the vice president directly owned 22,002 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,816,265.10. This represents a 4.43% 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, CFO Scott B. Ullem sold 13,000 shares of the firms 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 trade represents a 24.58% decrease in their ownership of the stock. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Company insiders own 1.29% of the companys stock.

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.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding EW? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Edwards Lifesciences Corporation (NYSE:EW  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Edwards Lifesciences Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Edwards Lifesciences and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
State Board of Administration of Florida Retirement System trimmed its stake in shares of Colgate-Palmolive Company (NYSE:CL  Free Report) by 1.2% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 804,870 shares of the companys stock after selling 9,835 shares during the quarter. State Board of Administration of Florida Retirement System owned 0.10% of Colgate-Palmolive worth $73,163,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Westside Investment Management Inc. lifted its stake in Colgate-Palmolive by 85.5% in the second quarter. Westside Investment Management Inc. now owns 282 shares of the companys stock worth $26,000 after acquiring an additional 130 shares during the last quarter. Saudi Central Bank acquired a new position in shares of Colgate-Palmolive in the 1st quarter valued at $29,000. Vermillion & White Wealth Management Group LLC raised its stake in Colgate-Palmolive by 86.1% during the 2nd quarter. Vermillion & White Wealth Management Group LLC now owns 335 shares of the companys stock worth $30,000 after acquiring an additional 155 shares in the last quarter. Ransom Advisory Ltd purchased a new stake in Colgate-Palmolive in the first quarter valued at $33,000. Finally, Y.D. More Investments Ltd acquired a new position in Colgate-Palmolive in the first quarter valued at $37,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 80.41% of the companys stock.

Get Colgate-Palmolive alerts:

Colgate-Palmolive Price Performance

Colgate-Palmolive stock opened at $80.14 on Friday. The firm has a fifty day moving average of $78.57 and a 200-day moving average of $84.54. The firm has a market capitalization of $64.59 billion, a P/E ratio of 22.51, a PEG ratio of 4.44 and a beta of 0.35. Colgate-Palmolive Company has a 52-week low of $74.54 and a 52-week high of $100.18. The company has a quick ratio of 0.57, a current ratio of 0.89 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 6.79.

Colgate-Palmolive Announces Dividend

Colgate-Palmolive ( NYSE:CL Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Friday, October 31st. The company reported $0.91 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.89 by $0.02. The company had revenue of $5.13 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $5.17 billion. Colgate-Palmolive had a net margin of 14.55% and a return on equity of 377.63%. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 1.9% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $0.91 EPS. As a group, analysts predict that Colgate-Palmolive Company will post 3.75 EPS for the current year.

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, November 14th. Stockholders of record on Friday, October 17th were given a dividend of $0.52 per share. The ex-dividend date was Friday, October 17th. This represents a $2.08 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.6%. Colgate-Palmolives dividend payout ratio is currently 58.26%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of brokerages have weighed in on CL. Barclays reduced their price objective on Colgate-Palmolive from $82.00 to $80.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research note on Tuesday, November 4th. Wells Fargo & Company reduced their price objective on shares of Colgate-Palmolive from $80.00 to $77.00 and set an underweight rating for the company in a research note on Monday, November 3rd. The Goldman Sachs Group lowered their target price on shares of Colgate-Palmolive from $106.00 to $91.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, October 2nd. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c) rating on shares of Colgate-Palmolive in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Morgan Stanley dropped their price target on Colgate-Palmolive from $96.00 to $87.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. Nine equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, five have given a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $89.87.

View Our Latest Analysis on CL

Colgate-Palmolive Profile

(Free Report)

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.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Colgate-Palmolive Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Colgate-Palmolive and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
WealthTrust Axiom LLC cut its holdings in CMS Energy Corporation (NYSE:CMS  Free Report) by 7.0% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 26,600 shares of the utilities providers stock after selling 2,000 shares during the period. WealthTrust Axiom LLCs holdings in CMS Energy were worth $1,843,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Jane Street Group LLC lifted its stake in CMS Energy by 503.4% in the first quarter. Jane Street Group LLC now owns 175,804 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $13,205,000 after buying an additional 146,667 shares during the last quarter. Mitsubishi UFJ Asset Management Co. Ltd. increased its holdings in shares of CMS Energy by 10.9% in the 2nd quarter. Mitsubishi UFJ Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 591,377 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $40,971,000 after acquiring an additional 58,024 shares during the period. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC lifted its position in CMS Energy by 7.3% in the 2nd quarter. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC now owns 30,873 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $2,176,000 after purchasing an additional 2,093 shares during the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its stake in CMS Energy by 1.8% during the 2nd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 39,044,129 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $2,704,977,000 after purchasing an additional 702,713 shares during the period. Finally, Dynamic Technology Lab Private Ltd bought a new position in CMS Energy in the 2nd quarter worth about $1,852,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 93.57% of the companys stock.

Get CMS Energy alerts:

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several equities analysts have recently issued reports on the company. Wall Street Zen upgraded CMS Energy from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday, October 18th. Morgan Stanley upped their price objective on shares of CMS Energy from $71.00 to $76.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Wells Fargo & Company raised shares of CMS Energy to a hold rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 28th. Barclays upped their price target on shares of CMS Energy from $78.00 to $82.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 21st. Finally, KeyCorp raised their price objective on shares of CMS Energy from $76.00 to $79.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 15th. Eight equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and five have given a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, CMS Energy presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $78.36.

CMS Energy Stock Performance

Shares of CMS opened at $75.28 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.93, a current ratio of 1.00 and a quick ratio of 0.77. The firms 50 day moving average is $73.49 and its 200-day moving average is $71.92. CMS Energy Corporation has a 12-month low of $63.97 and a 12-month high of $76.45. The stock has a market capitalization of $22.91 billion, a P/E ratio of 22.27, a P/E/G ratio of 2.76 and a beta of 0.42.

CMS Energy (NYSE:CMS  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The utilities provider reported $0.93 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.86 by $0.07. The firm had revenue of $2.02 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.83 billion. CMS Energy had a net margin of 12.76% and a return on equity of 12.07%. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 15.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the firm posted $0.84 earnings per share. CMS Energy has set its FY 2026 guidance at 3.800-3.870 EPS. FY 2025 guidance at 3.560-3.600 EPS. Equities research analysts anticipate that CMS Energy Corporation will post 3.59 EPS for the current fiscal year.

CMS Energy Announces Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, November 26th. Investors of record on Friday, November 7th were paid a $0.5425 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, November 7th. This represents a $2.17 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.9%. CMS Energys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 62.72%.

Insider Activity

In other CMS Energy news, SVP Lauren Y. Snyder sold 2,220 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Friday, September 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $71.26, for a total transaction of $158,197.20. Following the sale, the senior vice president owned 13,512 shares in the company, valued at approximately $962,865.12. The trade was a 14.11% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, SVP Brandon J. Hofmeister sold 4,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $72.47, for a total transaction of $289,880.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the senior vice president owned 64,259 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,656,849.73. The trade was a 5.86% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. 0.40% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

About CMS Energy

(Free Report)

CMS Energy Corporation operates as an energy company primarily in Michigan. The company operates through three segments: Electric Utility; Gas Utility; and Enterprises. The Electric Utility segment is involved in the generation, purchase, transmission, distribution, and sale of electricity. This segment generates electricity through coal, wind, gas, renewable energy, oil, and nuclear sources.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for CMS Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for CMS Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
PARIS, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- France, the United Kingdom, Germany and Italy on Thursday condemned what they called a "massive increase" in Israeli settler violence against Palestinian civilians in the occupied West Bank, warning that the escalation is destabilising the territory and undermining efforts to restore regional security.

In a joint statement, the foreign ministers of the four countries, often referred to as the E4, cited United Nations data showing a sharp rise in incidents in recent weeks. Figures from the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs recorded 264 settler attacks in October, the highest monthly total since the UN began tracking such cases in 2006.

"These attacks must stop," the ministers said, adding that the violence "sows terror among civilians" and threatens not only ongoing peace efforts but also "the lasting security of the State of Israel itself." They urged the Israeli government to meet its obligations under international law to protect Palestinians in the occupied territories, saying public condemnations by Israeli leaders "must be translated into action."

The ministers urged Israel to ensure accountability for perpetrators and to prevent further violence by addressing its "root causes." They also renewed their opposition to any form of annexation, "partial, total or de facto," and criticised settlement policies they said violate international law.

Warning that further weakening of the Palestinian Authority would harm prospects for governance in Gaza, the ministers reaffirmed their support for a negotiated two-state solution. 
Norges Bank purchased a new stake in Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE  Free Report) during the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund purchased 93,653,338 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock, valued at approximately $2,270,157,000. Norges Bank owned approximately 1.65% of Pfizer at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other large investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the business. Amundi grew its stake in shares of Pfizer by 43.4% during the 1st quarter. Amundi now owns 52,090,403 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $1,265,277,000 after purchasing an additional 15,758,846 shares during the period. Nuveen LLC purchased a new stake in Pfizer during the first quarter worth about $389,861,000. Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its holdings in Pfizer by 1.9% during the second quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 533,363,457 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $12,928,730,000 after buying an additional 10,198,330 shares in the last quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. grew its position in Pfizer by 51.9% during the first quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 26,456,457 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $670,407,000 after buying an additional 9,041,990 shares during the period. Finally, Northern Trust Corp lifted its position in shares of Pfizer by 6.8% during the 1st quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 62,325,957 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $1,579,340,000 after acquiring an additional 3,943,397 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 68.36% of the companys stock.

Get Pfizer alerts:

Pfizer Stock Performance

Shares of PFE opened at $25.72 on Friday. Pfizer Inc. has a 1 year low of $20.92 and a 1 year high of $27.69. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $24.97 and its 200 day simple moving average is $24.55. The company has a market capitalization of $146.21 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.68, a PEG ratio of 0.81 and a beta of 0.54. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.65, a quick ratio of 0.85 and a current ratio of 1.16.

Pfizer Dividend Announcement

Pfizer ( NYSE:PFE Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly 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 return on equity of 21.42% and a net margin of 16.84%.The company 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. On average, sell-side analysts predict that Pfizer Inc. will post 2.95 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 1st. Stockholders of record on Friday, November 7th will be issued a dividend of $0.43 per share. This represents a $1.72 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 6.7%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, November 7th. Pfizers dividend payout ratio is presently 100.00%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of equities research analysts recently weighed in on the company. UBS Group restated a neutral rating and issued a $28.00 price target on shares of Pfizer in a report on Wednesday, October 1st. Wall Street Zen lowered Pfizer from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Sunday, September 28th. Bank of America lifted their price target on Pfizer from $28.00 to $30.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Friday, October 3rd. Sanford C. Bernstein reiterated a market perform rating and issued a $30.00 price objective on shares of Pfizer in a research report on Friday, October 31st. Finally, Morgan Stanley dropped their target price on shares of Pfizer from $33.00 to $32.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a report on Friday, October 10th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, four have assigned a Buy rating, twelve have given a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $28.39.

Check Out Our Latest Report on PFE

About Pfizer

(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.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Pfizer Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Pfizer and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
F m Investments LLC raised its stake in Entergy Corporation (NYSE:ETR  Free Report) by 273.1% during the second quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 114,161 shares of the utilities providers stock after acquiring an additional 83,562 shares during the period. F m Investments LLCs holdings in Entergy were worth $9,493,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other large investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. Mesirow Financial Investment Management Inc. lifted its holdings in Entergy by 3.1% during the 2nd quarter. Mesirow Financial Investment Management Inc. now owns 3,864 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $321,000 after purchasing an additional 116 shares during the last quarter. DekaBank Deutsche Girozentrale increased its holdings in shares of Entergy by 0.3% during the second quarter. DekaBank Deutsche Girozentrale now owns 41,397 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $3,377,000 after buying an additional 118 shares in the last quarter. My Legacy Advisors LLC increased its holdings in shares of Entergy by 0.8% during the second quarter. My Legacy Advisors LLC now owns 16,576 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $1,361,000 after buying an additional 128 shares in the last quarter. New Hampshire Trust boosted its holdings in shares of Entergy by 3.6% in the 2nd quarter. New Hampshire Trust now owns 4,103 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $341,000 after acquiring an additional 141 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Mattson Financial Services LLC grew its position in Entergy by 100.0% during the 1st quarter. Mattson Financial Services LLC now owns 300 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $26,000 after acquiring an additional 150 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 88.07% of the companys stock.

Get Entergy alerts:

Entergy Stock Up 1.5%

Shares of Entergy stock opened at $96.73 on Friday. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $95.06 and a 200 day simple moving average of $88.76. The stock has a market cap of $43.20 billion, a PE ratio of 23.88, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.40 and a beta of 0.63. The company has a quick ratio of 0.52, a current ratio of 0.71 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.62. Entergy Corporation has a 12 month low of $73.15 and a 12 month high of $98.58.

Entergy Increases Dividend

Entergy ( NYSE:ETR Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Friday, July 8th. The utilities provider reported $0.71 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. The firm had revenue of $2.37 billion for the quarter. Entergy had a return on equity of 11.53% and a net margin of 14.26%. Research analysts predict that Entergy Corporation will post 3.88 EPS for the current year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 1st. Investors of record on Thursday, November 13th will be issued a dividend of $0.64 per share. This is an increase from Entergys previous quarterly dividend of $0.60. This represents a $2.56 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.6%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, November 13th. Entergys dividend payout ratio is presently 63.21%.

Insider Buying and Selling at Entergy

In other news, Director Ralph Lewis Ropp purchased 1,000 shares of Entergy stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, November 12th. The shares were bought at an average cost of $96.69 per share, with a total value of $96,690.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director directly owned 1,050 shares in the company, valued at $101,524.50. This trade represents a 2,000.00% increase in their position. The acquisition was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, insider Haley Fisackerly sold 5,136 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, November 4th. The stock was sold at an average price of $96.50, for a total value of $495,624.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider owned 7,899 shares of the companys stock, valued at $762,253.50. This trade represents a 39.40% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Over the last 90 days, insiders sold 10,179 shares of company stock valued at $981,707. Corporate insiders own 0.39% of the companys stock.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of analysts have recently weighed in on the company. Mizuho raised their target price on Entergy from $97.00 to $104.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Monday, October 27th. KeyCorp reaffirmed an overweight rating and issued a $106.00 target price (up from $96.00) on shares of Entergy in a research note on Wednesday, October 15th. Evercore ISI upped their target price on shares of Entergy from $98.00 to $101.00 and gave the stock an in-line rating in a research report on Thursday, October 30th. BTIG Research raised shares of Entergy to a strong-buy rating in a report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company upgraded shares of Entergy to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 28th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, twelve have given a Buy rating and four have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $102.47.

View Our Latest Stock Report on ETR

Entergy Profile

(Free Report)

Entergy Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the production and retail distribution of electricity in the United States. It generates, transmits, distributes, and sells electric power in portions of Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas, including the City of New Orleans; and distributes natural gas.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Entergy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Entergy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Virtue Capital Management LLC cut its holdings in Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM  Free Report) by 17.7% in the 2nd quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The firm owned 9,181 shares of the companys stock after selling 1,968 shares during the quarter. Virtue Capital Management LLCs holdings in Philip Morris International were worth $1,672,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other large investors have also bought and sold shares of the business. Linscomb Wealth Inc. boosted its position in Philip Morris International by 3.3% during the 1st quarter. Linscomb Wealth Inc. now owns 83,205 shares of the companys stock worth $13,207,000 after acquiring an additional 2,669 shares during the last quarter. Prudential Financial Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Philip Morris International by 88.9% in the second quarter. Prudential Financial Inc. now owns 2,138,118 shares of the companys stock valued at $389,415,000 after purchasing an additional 1,006,014 shares during the last quarter. First American Trust FSB lifted its position in shares of Philip Morris International by 80.0% in the first quarter. First American Trust FSB now owns 56,382 shares of the companys stock worth $8,949,000 after purchasing an additional 25,063 shares in the last quarter. Klingman & Associates LLC boosted its holdings in Philip Morris International by 44.5% during the second quarter. Klingman & Associates LLC now owns 6,615 shares of the companys stock worth $1,205,000 after purchasing an additional 2,038 shares during the last quarter. Finally, CCM Investment Group LLC acquired a new position in Philip Morris International during the first quarter worth $7,641,000. 78.63% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Get Philip Morris International alerts:

Philip Morris International Stock Performance

Shares of PM opened at $156.66 on Friday. The firm has a market cap of $243.87 billion, a P/E ratio of 28.38, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.84 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. The firms 50-day simple moving average is $155.80 and its 200 day simple moving average is $166.86.

Philip Morris International Increases Dividend

Philip Morris International ( NYSE:PM Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, March 28th. The company reported $1.59 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. Philip Morris International had a net margin of 9.33% and a negative return on equity of 122.14%. The firm had revenue of $8.12 billion during the quarter. As a group, equities analysts forecast that Philip Morris International Inc. will post 7.14 earnings per share for the current year.

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, October 20th. Investors of record on Friday, October 3rd were paid a $1.47 dividend. This is a boost from Philip Morris Internationals previous quarterly dividend of $1.35. The ex-dividend date was Friday, October 3rd. This represents a $5.88 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.8%. Philip Morris Internationals dividend payout ratio is presently 106.52%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

PM has been the topic of several recent research reports. The Goldman Sachs Group reiterated a buy rating on shares of Philip Morris International in a research note on Wednesday, October 22nd. JPMorgan Chase & Co. decreased their price objective on Philip Morris International from $190.00 to $185.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Wednesday. Barclays dropped their target price on Philip Morris International from $220.00 to $180.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Monday, November 17th. KGI Securities started coverage on Philip Morris International in a research report on Monday, August 4th. They set an outperform rating for the company. Finally, UBS Group decreased their price target on Philip Morris International from $177.00 to $166.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research note on Friday, September 5th. Twelve investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has given a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $189.00.

Get Our Latest Report on Philip Morris International

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).

Receive News & Ratings for Philip Morris International Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Philip Morris International and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Tejara Capital Ltd cut its holdings in shares of Denison Mine Corp (NYSEAMERICAN:DNN  Free Report) (TSE:DML) by 56.4% during the second quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The fund owned 338,286 shares of the basic materials companys stock after selling 436,814 shares during the quarter. Tejara Capital Ltds holdings in Denison Mine were worth $616,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

A number of other large investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Cetera Investment Advisers lifted its holdings in Denison Mine by 0.6% during the 2nd quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 954,140 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $1,737,000 after purchasing an additional 5,452 shares during the last quarter. Scotia Capital Inc. raised its position in shares of Denison Mine by 2.5% in the second quarter. Scotia Capital Inc. now owns 240,107 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $437,000 after purchasing an additional 5,818 shares during the period. WealthShield Partners LLC lifted its stake in shares of Denison Mine by 50.0% during the 2nd quarter. WealthShield Partners LLC now owns 18,000 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $33,000 after buying an additional 6,000 shares during the last quarter. HighTower Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Denison Mine by 13.4% during the 1st quarter. HighTower Advisors LLC now owns 102,180 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $133,000 after buying an additional 12,050 shares during the period. Finally, Envestnet Asset Management Inc. grew its stake in Denison Mine by 29.4% in the 2nd quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 55,962 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $102,000 after buying an additional 12,705 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 36.74% of the companys stock.

Get Denison Mine alerts:

Denison Mine Price Performance

Shares of NYSEAMERICAN DNN opened at $2.56 on Friday. The business has a fifty day moving average price of $2.75 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $2.23. The stock has a market capitalization of $2.30 billion, a PE ratio of -42.67 and a beta of 1.32. Denison Mine Corp has a fifty-two week low of $1.08 and a fifty-two week high of $3.42.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several equities research analysts have issued reports on DNN shares. Raymond James Financial restated an outperform rating on shares of Denison Mine in a research report on Friday, October 10th. National Bankshares reiterated an outperform rating on shares of Denison Mine in a research note on Monday, August 18th. Scotiabank restated an outperform rating on shares of Denison Mine in a research note on Thursday, August 7th. Desjardins upgraded Denison Mine to a moderate buy rating in a research report on Monday, August 18th. Finally, TD Securities reissued a buy rating on shares of Denison Mine in a report on Monday, August 11th. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, According to MarketBeat, Denison Mine presently has a consensus rating of Buy.

Check Out Our Latest Research Report on Denison Mine

About Denison Mine

(Free Report)

Denison Mines Corp. engages in the acquisition, exploration, and development of uranium bearing properties in Canada. Its flagship project is the Wheeler River uranium project covering an area of approximately 300,000 hectares located in the Athabasca Basin region in northern Saskatchewan. The company was formerly known as International Uranium Corporation and changed its name to Denison Mines Corp.

See Also

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding DNN? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Denison Mine Corp (NYSEAMERICAN:DNN  Free Report) (TSE:DML).

Receive News & Ratings for Denison Mine Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Denison Mine and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
WealthTrust Axiom LLC decreased its holdings in shares of Nutrien Ltd. (NYSE:NTR  Free Report) by 3.0% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 106,429 shares of the companys stock after selling 3,249 shares during the quarter. Nutrien makes up about 1.8% of WealthTrust Axiom LLCs investment portfolio, making the stock its 10th biggest holding. WealthTrust Axiom LLCs holdings in Nutrien were worth $6,198,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Huntington National Bank grew its holdings in shares of Nutrien by 72.6% in the 2nd quarter. Huntington National Bank now owns 656 shares of the companys stock valued at $38,000 after acquiring an additional 276 shares in the last quarter. Harbour Investments Inc. increased its position in shares of Nutrien by 94.8% during the 1st quarter. Harbour Investments Inc. now owns 715 shares of the companys stock worth $35,000 after purchasing an additional 348 shares during the last quarter. Trust Co. of Toledo NA OH bought a new stake in shares of Nutrien during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $49,000. AlphaCore Capital LLC bought a new stake in shares of Nutrien during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $56,000. Finally, Andra AP fonden acquired a new stake in shares of Nutrien in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $58,000. 63.10% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Get Nutrien alerts:

Nutrien Price Performance

Nutrien stock opened at $57.38 on Friday. The company has a market capitalization of $27.74 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 20.57, a PEG ratio of 0.92 and a beta of 0.83. The company has a current ratio of 1.33, a quick ratio of 0.85 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.39. Nutrien Ltd. has a 12 month low of $43.69 and a 12 month high of $65.08. The stocks 50 day moving average is $57.55 and its 200-day moving average is $58.40.

Nutrien Announces Dividend

Nutrien ( NYSE:NTR Get Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, November 5th. The company reported $0.97 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.91 by $0.06. Nutrien had a net margin of 5.25% and a return on equity of 6.51%. The company had revenue of $5.82 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $5.59 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $0.39 earnings per share. Nutriens quarterly revenue was up 12.3% on a year-over-year basis. Equities research analysts expect that Nutrien Ltd. will post 3.72 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, January 16th. Investors of record on Wednesday, December 31st will be paid a $0.545 dividend. This represents a $2.18 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.8%. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, December 31st. Nutriens payout ratio is 58.76%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several analysts have issued reports on the stock. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c-) rating on shares of Nutrien in a research report on Tuesday. Jefferies Financial Group dropped their target price on shares of Nutrien from $61.00 to $60.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, September 9th. Zacks Research cut Nutrien from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, September 16th. Bank of America restated a neutral rating and issued a $67.00 price objective on shares of Nutrien in a research note on Tuesday, October 14th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company began coverage on Nutrien in a report on Tuesday, November 11th. They set an equal weight rating and a $64.00 target price on the stock. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, five have issued a Buy rating, fourteen have issued a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $62.94.

Check Out Our Latest Report on NTR

Nutrien Profile

(Free Report)

Nutrien Ltd. provides crop inputs and services. The company operates through four segments: Retail, Potash, Nitrogen, and Phosphate. The Retail segment distributes crop nutrients, crop protection products, seeds, and merchandise products. The Potash segment provides granular and standard potash products.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding NTR? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Nutrien Ltd. (NYSE:NTR  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Nutrien Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Nutrien and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Neuberger Berman Group LLC lessened its stake in shares of TransUnion (NYSE:TRU  Free Report) by 3.6% during the second quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The firm owned 1,535,468 shares of the business services providers stock after selling 56,949 shares during the period. Neuberger Berman Group LLCs holdings in TransUnion were worth $135,121,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the stock. Wellington Management Group LLP raised its holdings in shares of TransUnion by 61.2% during the 1st quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 10,877,953 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $902,761,000 after buying an additional 4,128,104 shares during the period. Norges Bank acquired a new stake in TransUnion in the second quarter valued at approximately $150,333,000. William Blair Investment Management LLC raised its stake in shares of TransUnion by 41.7% during the second quarter. William Blair Investment Management LLC now owns 4,739,103 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $417,041,000 after purchasing an additional 1,394,813 shares during the period. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA raised its stake in shares of TransUnion by 4.8% during the second quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 22,720,864 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $1,999,436,000 after purchasing an additional 1,046,391 shares during the period. Finally, Nuveen LLC purchased a new position in shares of TransUnion in the first quarter valued at $55,607,000.

Get TransUnion alerts:

TransUnion Stock Performance

TRU stock opened at $84.90 on Friday. The company has a current ratio of 2.01, a quick ratio of 2.01 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.10. TransUnion has a 12-month low of $66.38 and a 12-month high of $101.93. The stocks 50 day simple moving average is $81.57 and its 200 day simple moving average is $86.88. The firm has a market cap of $16.49 billion, a P/E ratio of 39.67, a P/E/G ratio of 1.86 and a beta of 1.71.

TransUnion Announces Dividend

TransUnion ( NYSE:TRU Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 23rd. The business services provider reported $1.10 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.04 by $0.06. The business had revenue of $1.17 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.13 billion. TransUnion had a net margin of 9.47% and a return on equity of 16.05%. The companys quarterly revenue was up 7.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the business posted $1.04 EPS. TransUnion has set its Q4 2025 guidance at 0.970-1.02 EPS. FY 2025 guidance at 4.190-4.250 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts predict that TransUnion will post 3.99 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 8th. Investors of record on Friday, November 21st will be given a dividend of $0.115 per share. The ex-dividend date is Friday, November 21st. This represents a $0.46 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.5%. TransUnions payout ratio is currently 21.50%.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other TransUnion news, EVP Heather J. Russell sold 5,337 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, September 5th. The shares were sold at an average price of $90.01, for a total value of $480,383.37. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president owned 23,011 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,071,220.11. This represents a 18.83% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. Also, insider Steven M. Chaouki sold 1,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, November 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $80.47, for a total value of $80,470.00. Following the transaction, the insider owned 63,592 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $5,117,248.24. This represents a 1.55% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. Over the last 90 days, insiders have sold 8,337 shares of company stock valued at $730,163. 0.22% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several research firms recently issued reports on TRU. Seaport Res Ptn raised shares of TransUnion to a hold rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 1st. Stifel Nicolaus set a $103.00 price target on TransUnion in a research note on Friday, October 24th. BMO Capital Markets raised their price objective on TransUnion from $104.00 to $105.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, October 24th. Robert W. Baird set a $125.00 target price on TransUnion in a research report on Friday, October 24th. Finally, Oppenheimer began coverage on shares of TransUnion in a research report on Monday, October 13th. They set an outperform rating and a $93.00 price target for the company. Nine equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, five have issued a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $104.08.

View Our Latest Report on TRU

TransUnion Company Profile

(Free Report)

TransUnion operates as a global consumer credit reporting agency that provides risk and information solutions. The company operates through U.S. Markets, International, and Consumer Interactive segments. The U.S. Markets segment provides consumer reports, actionable insights, and analytic services to businesses, which uses its services to acquire new customers; assess consumer ability to pay for services; identify cross-selling opportunities; measure and manage debt portfolio risk; collect debt; verify consumer identities; and mitigate fraud risk.

See Also

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding TRU? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for TransUnion (NYSE:TRU  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for TransUnion Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for TransUnion and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Level Four Advisory Services LLC raised its position in American Tower Corporation (NYSE:AMT  Free Report) by 1.2% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The fund owned 29,572 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after buying an additional 343 shares during the period. Level Four Advisory Services LLCs holdings in American Tower were worth $6,536,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently modified their holdings of AMT. Focus Financial Network Inc. raised its position in American Tower by 9.1% in the second quarter. Focus Financial Network Inc. now owns 2,042 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $451,000 after acquiring an additional 170 shares during the period. Resolution Capital Ltd purchased a new stake in shares of American Tower during the 1st quarter worth approximately $72,706,000. Stack Financial Management Inc bought a new stake in shares of American Tower in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $13,020,000. Los Angeles Capital Management LLC lifted its stake in American Tower by 52.5% in the second quarter. Los Angeles Capital Management LLC now owns 321,661 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $71,094,000 after purchasing an additional 110,671 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Nordea Investment Management AB grew its holdings in American Tower by 1.0% during the second quarter. Nordea Investment Management AB now owns 1,532,818 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $334,430,000 after purchasing an additional 15,920 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 92.69% of the companys stock.

Get American Tower alerts:

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several analysts have issued reports on the company. Raymond James Financial restated a strong-buy rating and issued a $231.00 target price (down from $250.00) on shares of American Tower in a research note on Wednesday, October 29th. Barclays dropped their price objective on shares of American Tower from $251.00 to $203.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Monday, November 17th. Morgan Stanley cut their target price on shares of American Tower from $270.00 to $235.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, October 16th. TD Cowen lowered their price target on shares of American Tower from $249.00 to $235.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, October 29th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. cut their price objective on shares of American Tower from $255.00 to $250.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, October 29th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, thirteen have issued a Buy rating and five have given a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, American Tower currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $228.44.

Insider Activity at American Tower

In other news, Director Eugene F. Reilly purchased 5,554 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, October 31st. The shares were purchased at an average price of $178.99 per share, with a total value of $994,110.46. Following the completion of the acquisition, the director owned 5,689 shares in the company, valued at $1,018,274.11. This trade represents a 4,114.07% increase in their position. The acquisition was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. 0.17% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

American Tower Stock Up 0.9%

AMT stock opened at $181.39 on Friday. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $185.82 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $202.93. American Tower Corporation has a twelve month low of $172.51 and a twelve month high of $234.33. The firm has a market capitalization of $84.92 billion, a PE ratio of 28.98, a PEG ratio of 1.08 and a beta of 0.85. The company has a quick ratio of 0.95, a current ratio of 0.89 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 3.24.

American Tower (NYSE:AMT  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, October 28th. The real estate investment trust reported $2.78 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.64 by $0.14. The company had revenue of $2.72 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.65 billion. American Tower had a net margin of 28.11% and a return on equity of 28.79%. American Towers revenue was up 7.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the business earned $2.52 earnings per share. American Tower has set its FY 2025 guidance at 10.600-10.720 EPS. On average, equities analysts predict that American Tower Corporation will post 10.14 EPS for the current fiscal year.

American Tower Announces Dividend

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, October 20th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, September 30th were issued a $1.70 dividend. This represents a $6.80 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.7%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, September 30th. American Towers dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 108.63%.

American Tower Profile

(Free Report)

American Tower, one of the largest global REITs, is a leading independent owner, operator and developer of multitenant communications real estate with a portfolio of over 224,000 communications sites and a highly interconnected footprint of U.S. data center facilities.

Featured Articles

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding AMT? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for American Tower Corporation (NYSE:AMT  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for American Tower Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for American Tower and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Neuberger Berman Group LLC decreased its holdings in shares of Corpay, Inc. (NYSE:CPAY  Free Report) by 2.7% during the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 148,429 shares of the companys stock after selling 4,196 shares during the period. Neuberger Berman Group LLCs holdings in Corpay were worth $49,252,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Corpay by 3.2% during the second quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 8,124,437 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,695,851,000 after purchasing an additional 251,651 shares in the last quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised its stake in Corpay by 11.1% in the first quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 4,728,635 shares of the companys stock worth $1,648,970,000 after buying an additional 472,147 shares in the last quarter. Boston Partners lifted its holdings in Corpay by 5.8% during the second quarter. Boston Partners now owns 2,289,271 shares of the companys stock worth $758,536,000 after buying an additional 125,331 shares during the period. Invesco Ltd. boosted its position in Corpay by 12.3% during the 1st quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 1,894,732 shares of the companys stock valued at $660,731,000 after acquiring an additional 208,067 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Geode Capital Management LLC boosted its position in Corpay by 3.5% during the 2nd quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 1,871,511 shares of the companys stock valued at $619,643,000 after acquiring an additional 63,287 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 98.84% of the companys stock.

Get Corpay alerts:

Corpay Stock Up 0.5%

CPAY stock opened at $293.56 on Friday. The stock has a market capitalization of $20.54 billion, a PE ratio of 19.94, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.02 and a beta of 0.95. Corpay, Inc. has a 52 week low of $252.84 and a 52 week high of $400.81. The company has a quick ratio of 1.12, a current ratio of 1.12 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.48. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $283.78 and a 200 day moving average of $311.68.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Corpay ( NYSE:CPAY Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, November 5th. The company reported $5.70 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $5.63 by $0.07. The business had revenue of $1.17 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.16 billion. Corpay had a net margin of 25.17% and a return on equity of 39.13%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 13.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $5.00 earnings per share. Corpay has set its Q4 2025 guidance at 4.600-4.800 EPS. Sell-side analysts forecast that Corpay, Inc. will post 19.76 earnings per share for the current year.

A number of brokerages recently weighed in on CPAY. Williams Trading set a $300.00 price objective on Corpay in a research note on Monday, November 3rd. Royal Bank Of Canada raised their price target on shares of Corpay from $336.00 to $344.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a report on Thursday, November 6th. Jefferies Financial Group reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of Corpay in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods decreased their target price on shares of Corpay from $445.00 to $400.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, October 1st. Finally, UBS Group cut their price target on shares of Corpay from $340.00 to $315.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, November 6th. Nine analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and six have issued a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $379.71.

Read Our Latest Stock Report on Corpay

Corpay Company Profile

(Free Report)

Corpay, Inc operates as a payments company that helps businesses and consumers manage vehicle-related expenses, lodging expenses, and corporate payments in the United States, Brazil, the United Kingdom, and internationally. The company offers vehicle payment solutions, which include fuel, tolls, parking, fleet maintenance, and long-haul transportation services, as well as prepaid food and transportation vouchers and cards.

Read More

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CPAY? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Corpay, Inc. (NYSE:CPAY  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Corpay Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Corpay and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB publ lifted its holdings in shares of Uber Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:UBER  Free Report) by 11.6% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 434,482 shares of the ride-sharing companys stock after buying an additional 45,192 shares during the quarter. Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB publs holdings in Uber Technologies were worth $40,485,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of UBER. Prudential PLC grew its holdings in Uber Technologies by 15.7% during the second quarter. Prudential PLC now owns 216,855 shares of the ride-sharing companys stock valued at $20,233,000 after purchasing an additional 29,359 shares during the period. Hilltop National Bank acquired a new stake in Uber Technologies in the second quarter worth $96,000. American Capital Advisory LLC boosted its position in shares of Uber Technologies by 47.8% during the second quarter. American Capital Advisory LLC now owns 13,006 shares of the ride-sharing companys stock worth $1,213,000 after purchasing an additional 4,204 shares in the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC boosted its position in shares of Uber Technologies by 2.6% during the second quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 45,859,136 shares of the ride-sharing companys stock worth $4,258,756,000 after purchasing an additional 1,168,288 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Swiss National Bank grew its holdings in shares of Uber Technologies by 6.6% in the 2nd quarter. Swiss National Bank now owns 5,697,400 shares of the ride-sharing companys stock valued at $531,567,000 after buying an additional 352,400 shares during the period. 80.24% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Get Uber Technologies alerts:

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several analysts recently commented on UBER shares. Guggenheim dropped their price objective on Uber Technologies from $140.00 to $135.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, November 5th. Benchmark restated a hold rating on shares of Uber Technologies in a report on Tuesday, October 28th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft reiterated a buy rating and set a $108.00 price objective on shares of Uber Technologies in a report on Wednesday, October 29th. Mizuho assumed coverage on Uber Technologies in a research report on Monday, September 29th. They issued an outperform rating and a $130.00 price objective for the company. Finally, DA Davidson raised their target price on shares of Uber Technologies from $102.00 to $108.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, November 5th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, thirty have issued a Buy rating and eight have given a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $108.26.

Uber Technologies Trading Up 2.5%

NYSE UBER opened at $85.79 on Friday. Uber Technologies, Inc. has a 12 month low of $59.33 and a 12 month high of $101.99. The company has a current ratio of 1.15, a quick ratio of 1.15 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.37. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $93.90 and a 200-day moving average of $91.88. The company has a market cap of $178.26 billion, a PE ratio of 11.03 and a beta of 1.46.

Uber Technologies (NYSE:UBER  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, November 4th. The ride-sharing company reported $3.11 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.67 by $2.44. The firm had revenue of $13.47 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $13.25 billion. Uber Technologies had a return on equity of 68.17% and a net margin of 33.54%.The businesss revenue was up 20.4% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business earned $1.20 earnings per share. On average, equities research analysts anticipate that Uber Technologies, Inc. will post 2.54 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Insider Buying and Selling

In other news, CFO Prashanth Mahendra-Rajah sold 5,500 shares of Uber Technologies stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, November 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $94.41, for a total value of $519,255.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief financial officer directly owned 20,330 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,919,355.30. The trade was a 21.29% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. Also, CEO Dara Khosrowshahi sold 150,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Monday, September 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $100.48, for a total value of $15,072,000.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer owned 982,544 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $98,726,021.12. The trade was a 13.24% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. In the last ninety days, insiders sold 567,625 shares of company stock valued at $55,385,660. Insiders own 3.84% of the companys stock.

Uber Technologies Profile

(Free Report)

Uber Technologies, Inc develops and operates proprietary technology applications in the United States, Canada, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia excluding China and Southeast Asia. It operates through three segments: Mobility, Delivery, and Freight. The Mobility segment connects consumers with a range of transportation modalities, such as ridesharing, carsharing, micromobility, rentals, public transit, taxis, and other modalities; and offers riders in a variety of vehicle types, as well as financial partnerships products and advertising services.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for Uber Technologies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Uber Technologies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
WealthTrust Axiom LLC lowered its stake in Valero Energy Corporation (NYSE:VLO  Free Report) by 8.7% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 3,172 shares of the oil and gas companys stock after selling 302 shares during the quarter. WealthTrust Axiom LLCs holdings in Valero Energy were worth $426,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of VLO. Hoey Investments Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Valero Energy during the second quarter valued at approximately $26,000. GFG Capital LLC purchased a new position in shares of Valero Energy in the second quarter valued at $27,000. Hantz Financial Services Inc. grew its holdings in Valero Energy by 1,277.8% during the 2nd quarter. Hantz Financial Services Inc. now owns 248 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $33,000 after purchasing an additional 230 shares in the last quarter. Hemington Wealth Management increased its stake in Valero Energy by 39.9% during the 1st quarter. Hemington Wealth Management now owns 333 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $43,000 after buying an additional 95 shares during the period. Finally, Ransom Advisory Ltd acquired a new position in Valero Energy in the 1st quarter worth $43,000. 78.69% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Get Valero Energy alerts:

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of research analysts recently commented on VLO shares. UBS Group reissued a buy rating and issued a $183.00 price target on shares of Valero Energy in a report on Friday, October 24th. Morgan Stanley cut Valero Energy from an overweight rating to an equal weight rating and increased their target price for the company from $160.00 to $175.00 in a research note on Friday, October 3rd. Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c) rating on shares of Valero Energy in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Mizuho increased their price objective on shares of Valero Energy from $166.00 to $190.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Monday, September 15th. Finally, Erste Group Bank initiated coverage on shares of Valero Energy in a research report on Monday, November 10th. They issued a buy rating for the company. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eleven have given a Buy rating and six have issued a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $182.00.

Valero Energy Trading Up 0.3%

Valero Energy stock opened at $174.59 on Friday. Valero Energy Corporation has a 1 year low of $99.00 and a 1 year high of $185.62. The firms 50-day moving average is $169.70 and its 200-day moving average is $151.01. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.36, a quick ratio of 1.09 and a current ratio of 1.60. The company has a market cap of $53.25 billion, a P/E ratio of 36.45, a PEG ratio of 1.77 and a beta of 1.01.

Valero Energy (NYSE:VLO  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, October 23rd. The oil and gas company reported $3.66 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $3.15 by $0.51. The firm had revenue of $32.17 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $28.80 billion. Valero Energy had a net margin of 1.21% and a return on equity of 8.69%. Valero Energys revenue was down 2.2% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $1.14 earnings per share. On average, equities analysts expect that Valero Energy Corporation will post 7.92 earnings per share for the current year.

Valero Energy Announces Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, December 18th. Investors of record on Thursday, November 20th will be paid a dividend of $1.13 per share. This represents a $4.52 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.6%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, November 20th. Valero Energys dividend payout ratio is presently 94.36%.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Valero Energy news, CFO Jason W. Fraser sold 9,933 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Friday, November 21st. The stock was sold at an average price of $174.02, for a total value of $1,728,540.66. Following the sale, the chief financial officer directly owned 134,196 shares in the company, valued at approximately $23,352,787.92. This trade represents a 6.89% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. 0.04% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

Valero Energy Profile

(Free Report)

Valero Energy Corporation manufactures, markets, and sells petroleum-based and low-carbon liquid transportation fuels and petrochemical products in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Latin America, Mexico, Peru, and internationally. It operates through three segments: Refining, Renewable Diesel, and Ethanol.

Recommended Stories

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding VLO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Valero Energy Corporation (NYSE:VLO  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Valero Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Valero Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Two children run along a destroyed street in the town of Tammun, south of Tubas in the West Bank, on Nov. 28, 2025. Israeli security forces and settlers have killed 1,030 Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, since Oct. 7, 2023, the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has verified, a UN spokesperson said here Friday. Among the fatalities were 223 children, Jeremy Laurence, spokesperson for the OHCHR, told a regular UN press briefing in Geneva. (Photo by Nidal Eshtayeh/Xinhua)

GENEVA, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Israeli security forces and settlers have killed 1,030 Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, since Oct. 7, 2023, the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has verified, a UN spokesperson said here Friday.

Among the fatalities were 223 children, Jeremy Laurence, spokesperson for the OHCHR, told a regular UN press briefing in Geneva.

Laurence said he was appalled by the recent incident in Jenin, where Israeli personnel were seen on video shooting and killing two Palestinian men.

He noted that killings of Palestinians by Israeli security forces and settlers in the West Bank have been surging, with a persistent lack of accountability. Impunity for Israel security forces' unlawful use of force, and ever-growing Israeli settler violence, must end, he said.

In the statement, Laurence said UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk urged independent, prompt and effective investigations into the killings of Palestinians and called for those responsible for violations to be held fully accountable. 

Palestinians take shelter from tear gases fired by Israeli forces in the village of Tarqumiyah, west of Hebron in the West Bank, on Nov. 28, 2025.

Israeli security forces and settlers have killed 1,030 Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, since Oct. 7, 2023, the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has verified, a UN spokesperson said here Friday.

Among the fatalities were 223 children, Jeremy Laurence, spokesperson for the OHCHR, told a regular UN press briefing in Geneva. (Photo by Mamoun Wazwaz/Xinhua)

A Palestinian woman, holding a child in her arm, walks along a destroyed street in the town of Tammun, south of Tubas in the West Bank, on Nov. 28, 2025.

Israeli security forces and settlers have killed 1,030 Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, since Oct. 7, 2023, the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has verified, a UN spokesperson said here Friday.

Among the fatalities were 223 children, Jeremy Laurence, spokesperson for the OHCHR, told a regular UN press briefing in Geneva. (Photo by Nidal Eshtayeh/Xinhua)

Palestinians take shelter from tear gases fired by Israeli forces in the village of Tarqumiyah, west of Hebron in the West Bank, on Nov. 28, 2025.

Israeli security forces and settlers have killed 1,030 Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, since Oct. 7, 2023, the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has verified, a UN spokesperson said here Friday.

Among the fatalities were 223 children, Jeremy Laurence, spokesperson for the OHCHR, told a regular UN press briefing in Geneva. (Photo by Mamoun Wazwaz/Xinhua)

Palestinians take shelter from tear gases fired by Israeli forces in the village of Tarqumiyah, west of Hebron in the West Bank, on Nov. 28, 2025.

Israeli security forces and settlers have killed 1,030 Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, since Oct. 7, 2023, the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has verified, a UN spokesperson said here Friday.

Among the fatalities were 223 children, Jeremy Laurence, spokesperson for the OHCHR, told a regular UN press briefing in Geneva. (Photo by Mamoun Wazwaz/Xinhua)

Israeli soldiers use tear gas to disperse Palestinians in the village of Tarqumiyah, west of Hebron in the West Bank, on Nov. 28, 2025.

Israeli security forces and settlers have killed 1,030 Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, since Oct. 7, 2023, the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has verified, a UN spokesperson said here Friday.

Among the fatalities were 223 children, Jeremy Laurence, spokesperson for the OHCHR, told a regular UN press briefing in Geneva. (Photo by Mamoun Wazwaz/Xinhua)
Scotia Capital Inc. lifted its position in shares of Manulife Financial Corp (NYSE:MFC  Free Report) (TSE:MFC) by 3.8% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 11,090,459 shares of the financial services providers stock after acquiring an additional 406,855 shares during the period. Manulife Financial makes up approximately 1.7% of Scotia Capital Inc.s portfolio, making the stock its 18th largest position. Scotia Capital Inc. owned approximately 0.65% of Manulife Financial worth $354,497,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Korea Investment CORP raised its holdings in shares of Manulife Financial by 0.4% during the second quarter. Korea Investment CORP now owns 1,637,795 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $52,261,000 after purchasing an additional 6,959 shares during the last quarter. J.W. Cole Advisors Inc. grew its position in Manulife Financial by 11.1% in the 2nd quarter. J.W. Cole Advisors Inc. now owns 26,967 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $862,000 after purchasing an additional 2,703 shares during the period. Advisors Asset Management Inc. grew its position in Manulife Financial by 6.3% in the 2nd quarter. Advisors Asset Management Inc. now owns 30,574 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $977,000 after purchasing an additional 1,819 shares during the period. XTX Topco Ltd purchased a new stake in Manulife Financial during the 2nd quarter valued at $4,364,000. Finally, Aviso Financial Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of Manulife Financial by 8.4% during the 2nd quarter. Aviso Financial Inc. now owns 155,601 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $4,974,000 after buying an additional 12,039 shares during the period. 52.56% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Get Manulife Financial alerts:

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several equities research analysts have recently commented on the stock. BMO Capital Markets reaffirmed an outperform rating on shares of Manulife Financial in a research report on Friday, November 14th. Royal Bank Of Canada boosted their target price on shares of Manulife Financial from $49.00 to $52.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Friday, November 14th. UBS Group initiated coverage on shares of Manulife Financial in a report on Thursday, October 16th. They set a buy rating for the company. Weiss Ratings reiterated a buy (b) rating on shares of Manulife Financial in a research note on Monday. Finally, Morgan Stanley set a $47.00 price objective on shares of Manulife Financial in a research report on Tuesday, October 7th. Five investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, According to data from MarketBeat.com, Manulife Financial presently has a consensus rating of Buy and an average target price of $49.50.

Manulife Financial Trading Down 1.5%

NYSE MFC opened at $34.78 on Friday. Manulife Financial Corp has a 12 month low of $25.92 and a 12 month high of $35.57. The stock has a market cap of $58.60 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 15.52, a PEG ratio of 1.13 and a beta of 0.98. The companys 50 day moving average is $32.66 and its two-hundred day moving average is $31.65.

Manulife Financial (NYSE:MFC  Get Free Report) (TSE:MFC) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, November 12th. The financial services provider reported $0.84 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.74 by $0.10. The firm had revenue of $12.90 billion during the quarter. Manulife Financial had a net margin of 10.46% and a return on equity of 15.77%. During the same period last year, the company earned $1.00 earnings per share. Sell-side analysts forecast that Manulife Financial Corp will post 2.87 EPS for the current year.

Manulife Financial Increases Dividend

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 19th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, November 26th will be issued a dividend of $0.44 per share. This is a boost from Manulife Financials previous quarterly dividend of $0.32. This represents a $1.76 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 5.1%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, November 26th. Manulife Financials payout ratio is 55.56%.

Manulife Financial Profile

(Free Report)

Manulife Financial Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, provides financial products and services in the United States, Canada, Asia, and internationally. The company operates through Wealth and Asset Management Businesses; Insurance and Annuity Products; and Corporate and Other segments. The Wealth and Asset Management Businesses segment offers investment advice and solutions to retirement, retail, and institutional clients through multiple distribution channels, including agents and brokers affiliated with the company, independent securities brokerage firms and financial advisors pension plan consultants, and banks.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Manulife Financial Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Manulife Financial and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Colonial Trust Advisors raised its holdings in Viking Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:VIK  Free Report) by 19.6% during the second quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The firm owned 73,615 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 12,066 shares during the period. Colonial Trust Advisors holdings in Viking were worth $3,923,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Central Pacific Bank Trust Division increased its stake in shares of Viking by 2.4% in the second quarter. Central Pacific Bank Trust Division now owns 11,887 shares of the companys stock worth $633,000 after buying an additional 274 shares during the last quarter. Golden State Wealth Management LLC grew its holdings in Viking by 20.1% during the 2nd quarter. Golden State Wealth Management LLC now owns 1,982 shares of the companys stock worth $106,000 after acquiring an additional 332 shares in the last quarter. Harbour Investments Inc. grew its holdings in Viking by 37.2% during the 1st quarter. Harbour Investments Inc. now owns 1,277 shares of the companys stock worth $51,000 after acquiring an additional 346 shares in the last quarter. Commerce Bank increased its position in shares of Viking by 4.7% in the 1st quarter. Commerce Bank now owns 8,936 shares of the companys stock worth $355,000 after purchasing an additional 399 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Pittenger & Anderson Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of Viking in the 2nd quarter valued at about $27,000. 98.84% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Get Viking alerts:

Analysts Set New Price Targets

VIK has been the subject of a number of research reports. Mizuho set a $59.00 price target on Viking in a research note on Wednesday, November 19th. Truist Financial lifted their target price on Viking from $55.00 to $59.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Friday, September 19th. Barclays upped their price target on Viking from $62.00 to $63.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research report on Thursday, November 20th. Jefferies Financial Group reaffirmed a hold rating and issued a $60.00 price objective on shares of Viking in a report on Thursday, November 20th. Finally, Morgan Stanley increased their target price on shares of Viking from $62.00 to $66.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Wednesday, August 20th. Nine investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, seven have assigned a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $61.38.

Viking Stock Performance

Shares of VIK opened at $66.51 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 5.68, a quick ratio of 0.61 and a current ratio of 0.63. Viking Holdings Ltd. has a 1 year low of $31.79 and a 1 year high of $68.60. The firm has a fifty day moving average of $60.64 and a 200-day moving average of $56.82. The company has a market cap of $29.47 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 31.08, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.77 and a beta of 2.20.

Viking (NYSE:VIK  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, November 19th. The company reported $1.20 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.19 by $0.01. Viking had a net margin of 15.53% and a return on equity of 716.92%. The firm had revenue of $2 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.99 billion. During the same period last year, the firm posted $0.89 EPS. Vikings quarterly revenue was up 19.1% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that Viking Holdings Ltd. will post 1.49 earnings per share for the current year.

About Viking

(Free Report)

Viking Holdings Ltd engages in the passenger shipping and other forms of passenger transport in North America, the United Kingdom, and internationally. It operates through River and Ocean segments. The company also operates as a tour entrepreneur for passengers and related activities in tourism. As of December 31, 2023, it operated a fleet of 92 ships, including 81 river vessels comprising 58 Longships, 10 smaller classes based on the Longship design, 11 other river vessels, and 1 river vessel charter and the Viking Mississippi; 9 ocean ships; and 2 expedition ships.

See Also

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding VIK? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Viking Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:VIK  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Viking Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Viking and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Norges Bank acquired a new position in shares of Digital Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE:DLR  Free Report) in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm acquired 21,845,181 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock, valued at approximately $3,808,270,000. Norges Bank owned about 6.41% of Digital Realty Trust 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 added to or reduced their stakes in DLR. Greykasell Wealth Strategies Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Digital Realty Trust in the 1st quarter worth approximately $26,000. South Plains Financial Inc. increased its position in Digital Realty Trust by 280.5% in the second quarter. South Plains Financial Inc. now owns 156 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $27,000 after buying an additional 115 shares during the last quarter. Tobam bought a new stake in shares of Digital Realty Trust in the second quarter valued at $28,000. WPG Advisers LLC purchased a new position in shares of Digital Realty Trust during the 1st quarter valued at $30,000. Finally, 1 North Wealth Services LLC bought a new position in shares of Digital Realty Trust during the 1st quarter worth $31,000. 99.71% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Get Digital Realty Trust alerts:

Digital Realty Trust Trading Up 1.1%

NYSE DLR opened at $159.16 on Friday. The company has a market capitalization of $54.67 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 41.13, a PEG ratio of 4.13 and a beta of 0.96. The stocks 50-day simple moving average is $169.18 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $170.66. The company has a quick ratio of 2.22, a current ratio of 2.02 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.80. Digital Realty Trust, Inc. has a twelve month low of $129.95 and a twelve month high of $198.00.

Digital Realty Trust Announces Dividend

Digital Realty Trust ( NYSE:DLR Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Friday, October 31st. The real estate investment trust reported $0.15 EPS for the quarter. The business had revenue of $1.58 billion for the quarter. Digital Realty Trust had a net margin of 23.67% and a return on equity of 6.41%. Research analysts forecast that Digital Realty Trust, Inc. will post 7.07 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, January 16th. Stockholders of record on Monday, December 15th will be paid a dividend of $1.22 per share. This represents a $4.88 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.1%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, December 15th. Digital Realty Trusts dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 126.10%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of equities analysts have weighed in on DLR shares. Truist Financial increased their target price on shares of Digital Realty Trust from $199.00 to $200.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, November 5th. Citigroup lifted their price objective on shares of Digital Realty Trust from $200.00 to $212.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 29th. Wall Street Zen downgraded Digital Realty Trust from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a research report on Saturday, November 8th. Loop Capital set a $205.00 price target on Digital Realty Trust in a research report on Monday, October 27th. Finally, Weiss Ratings upgraded Digital Realty Trust from a hold (c+) rating to a buy (b-) rating in a research note on Tuesday. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, sixteen have assigned a Buy rating, six have assigned a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Digital Realty Trust has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $198.14.

View Our Latest Analysis on Digital Realty Trust

Insider Activity at Digital Realty Trust

In other news, CEO Andrew Power sold 53,269 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Monday, September 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $175.16, for a total value of $9,330,598.04. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Corporate insiders own 0.13% of the companys stock.

Digital Realty Trust Company Profile

(Free Report)

Digital Realty Trust, Inc operates as a real estate investment trust, which engages in the provision of data center, colocation and interconnection solutions. It serves the following industries: artificial intelligence (AI), networks, cloud, digital media, mobile, financial services, healthcare, and gaming.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Digital Realty Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Digital Realty Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB publ lowered its stake in The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:GS  Free Report) by 10.3% during the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 68,626 shares of the investment management companys stock after selling 7,906 shares during the quarter. Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB publs holdings in The Goldman Sachs Group were worth $48,570,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

A number of other hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of GS. Dogwood Wealth Management LLC raised its holdings in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 1,800.0% during the second quarter. Dogwood Wealth Management LLC now owns 38 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $26,000 after acquiring an additional 36 shares during the period. Clearstead Trust LLC purchased a new position in The Goldman Sachs Group during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $31,000. Clal Insurance Enterprises Holdings Ltd acquired a new stake in The Goldman Sachs Group during the 1st quarter valued at $25,000. Ridgewood Investments LLC raised its stake in The Goldman Sachs Group by 45.9% during the 2nd quarter. Ridgewood Investments LLC now owns 54 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $38,000 after purchasing an additional 17 shares during the period. Finally, MeadowBrook Investment Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in the second quarter valued at $39,000. 71.21% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Get The Goldman Sachs Group alerts:

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of brokerages have recently weighed in on GS. Citigroup lifted their price target on The Goldman Sachs Group from $700.00 to $765.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Thursday, October 16th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft raised their price objective on 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. Morgan Stanley decreased 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 report on Wednesday, October 15th. Daiwa Capital Markets boosted their price objective on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from $756.00 to $810.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, BMO Capital Markets started coverage on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in a research report on Friday, October 3rd. They issued a market perform rating and a $785.00 target price for the company. Four analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, sixteen have given a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $786.00.

The Goldman Sachs Group Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE GS opened at $815.88 on Friday. The businesss 50-day simple moving average is $787.07 and its 200-day simple moving average is $724.05. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.23, a quick ratio of 0.67 and a current ratio of 1.11. 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 $244.70 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 16.57, a P/E/G ratio of 1.43 and a beta of 1.41.

The Goldman Sachs Group (NYSE:GS  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, October 14th. The investment management company reported $12.25 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $10.27 by $1.98. The Goldman Sachs Group had a return on equity of 14.79% and a net margin of 13.18%.The firm had revenue of $15.18 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $13.68 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $8.40 earnings per share. The companys revenue was up 19.5% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, equities research analysts expect that The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. will post 47.12 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The Goldman Sachs Group Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed 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 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.0%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, December 2nd. The Goldman Sachs Groups dividend payout ratio is currently 32.50%.

The Goldman Sachs Group 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.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for The Goldman Sachs Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for The Goldman Sachs Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB publ lowered its holdings in Motorola Solutions, Inc. (NYSE:MSI  Free Report) by 31.1% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 308,265 shares of the communications equipment providers stock after selling 139,223 shares during the period. Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB publ owned approximately 0.19% of Motorola Solutions worth $129,613,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of the business. Norges Bank purchased a new stake in Motorola Solutions in the second quarter valued at approximately $872,307,000. Nuveen LLC purchased a new position in Motorola Solutions in the 1st quarter worth approximately $650,426,000. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Motorola Solutions by 1.8% in the 2nd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 21,885,593 shares of the communications equipment providers stock worth $9,202,016,000 after buying an additional 384,479 shares during the last quarter. Hsbc Holdings PLC raised its position in shares of Motorola Solutions by 49.1% during the 1st quarter. Hsbc Holdings PLC now owns 746,011 shares of the communications equipment providers stock valued at $325,558,000 after buying an additional 245,739 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Congress Asset Management Co. bought a new stake in shares of Motorola Solutions during the 2nd quarter worth $87,162,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 84.17% of the companys stock.

Get Motorola Solutions alerts:

Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, SVP James A. Niewiara sold 1,700 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Thursday, September 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $485.43, for a total transaction of $825,231.00. Following the transaction, the senior vice president owned 14,542 shares in the company, valued at $7,059,123.06. The trade was a 10.47% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. Also, CEO Gregory Q. Brown sold 50,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, September 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $483.50, for a total value of $24,175,000.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer directly owned 46,936 shares of the companys stock, valued at $22,693,556. The trade was a 51.58% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. Insiders have sold 85,614 shares of company stock valued at $41,278,417 over the last ninety days. 1.44% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of research analysts recently commented on the company. UBS Group increased their target price on Motorola Solutions from $490.00 to $510.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Friday, August 8th. Evercore ISI increased their price objective on Motorola Solutions from $500.00 to $525.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Friday, August 29th. Barclays decreased their price objective on Motorola Solutions from $509.00 to $495.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Friday, October 31st. Piper Sandler reaffirmed a neutral rating and issued a $465.00 target price (down previously from $495.00) on shares of Motorola Solutions in a research note on Friday, October 31st. Finally, Weiss Ratings reissued a buy (b-) rating on shares of Motorola Solutions in a research note on Monday. Six investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and three have assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $502.50.

Read Our Latest Stock Report on MSI

Motorola Solutions Stock Performance

NYSE:MSI opened at $370.25 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 3.86, a quick ratio of 1.54 and a current ratio of 1.73. Motorola Solutions, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $365.40 and a fifty-two week high of $503.62. The firm has a market cap of $61.67 billion, a PE ratio of 29.81, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.46 and a beta of 0.96. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $424.00 and a 200-day moving average price of $432.10.

Motorola Solutions (NYSE:MSI  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Friday, October 31st. The communications equipment provider reported $4.06 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $3.85 by $0.21. The company had revenue of $3.01 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.99 billion. Motorola Solutions had a net margin of 19.08% and a return on equity of 134.30%. The firms revenue was up 7.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted $3.74 EPS. Equities research analysts predict that Motorola Solutions, Inc. will post 13.55 earnings per share for the current year.

Motorola Solutions Increases Dividend

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, January 15th. Stockholders of record on Monday, December 15th will be issued a dividend of $1.21 per share. This is an increase from Motorola Solutionss previous quarterly dividend of $0.01. This represents a $4.84 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.3%. The ex-dividend date is Monday, December 15th. Motorola Solutionss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 38.84%.

About Motorola Solutions

(Free Report)

Motorola Solutions, Inc provides public safety and enterprise security solutions in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and internationally. The company operates in two segments, Products and Systems Integration, and Software and Services. The Products and Systems Integration segment offers a portfolio of infrastructure, devices, accessories, and video security devices and infrastructure, as well as the implementation and integration of systems, devices, software, and applications for government, public safety, and commercial customers who operate private communications networks and video security solutions, as well as manage a mobile workforce.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Motorola Solutions Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Motorola Solutions and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Johnson Financial Group Inc. cut its holdings in Bristol Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY  Free Report) by 9.5% in the second quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 16,466 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after selling 1,736 shares during the period. Johnson Financial Group Inc.s holdings in Bristol Myers Squibb were worth $762,000 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 BMY. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its stake in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb by 1.8% in the 2nd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 194,925,206 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $9,023,088,000 after acquiring an additional 3,522,202 shares in the last quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. raised its position in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb by 16.8% in the second quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 70,802,680 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $3,277,456,000 after purchasing an additional 10,195,775 shares during the period. Geode Capital Management LLC lifted its stake in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb by 1.6% in the second quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 46,176,690 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $2,132,976,000 after buying an additional 723,459 shares during the last quarter. Northern Trust Corp boosted its holdings in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb by 5.3% during the 1st quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 25,974,504 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $1,584,185,000 after buying an additional 1,316,144 shares during the period. Finally, Wellington Management Group LLP grew its stake 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 buying an additional 17,750,938 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 76.41% of the companys stock.

Get Bristol Myers Squibb alerts:

Bristol Myers Squibb Stock Up 0.6%

Shares of BMY stock opened at $49.33 on Friday. Bristol Myers Squibb Company has a one year low of $42.52 and a one year 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. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $45.51 and a 200 day moving average price of $46.62. The stock has a market cap of $100.43 billion, a P/E ratio of 19.89, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.23 and a beta of 0.33.

Bristol Myers Squibb Announces Dividend

Bristol Myers Squibb ( NYSE:BMY Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results 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 firm had revenue of $12.22 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $11.75 billion. Bristol Myers Squibb had a net margin of 10.58% and a return on equity of 80.04%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 2.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $1.80 EPS. Bristol Myers Squibb has set its FY 2025 guidance at 6.400-6.600 EPS. Analysts predict that Bristol Myers Squibb Company will post 6.74 earnings per share for the current year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, November 3rd. Shareholders of record on Friday, October 3rd were issued a dividend of $0.62 per share. This represents a $2.48 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 5.0%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, October 3rd. Bristol Myers Squibbs payout ratio is presently 83.78%.

Insider Buying and Selling at Bristol Myers Squibb

In other news, EVP David V. Elkins sold 56,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred 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 completion of the transaction, the executive vice president directly 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 sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Corporate insiders own 0.07% of the companys stock.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of research analysts have weighed in on BMY shares. Cantor Fitzgerald reissued a neutral rating on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a research report on Monday. 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 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. BMO Capital Markets reiterated a market perform rating on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a report on Monday, November 17th. Finally, Morgan Stanley restated a hold rating on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a research note on Thursday, July 31st. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and fifteen have given a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $54.42.

Get 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.

Read More

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BMY? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Bristol Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Bristol Myers Squibb Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bristol Myers Squibb and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
State Board of Administration of Florida Retirement System boosted its stake in American Express Company (NYSE:AXP) by 0.6% during the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 538,797 shares of the payment services companys stock after acquiring an additional 3,250 shares during the quarter. State Board of Administration of Florida Retirement System owned 0.08% of American Express worth $171,865,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Other large investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Capital Asset Advisory Services LLC boosted its stake in shares of American Express by 2.8% in the second quarter. Capital Asset Advisory Services LLC now owns 1,191 shares of the payment services companys stock worth $384,000 after acquiring an additional 32 shares during the last quarter. DLK Investment Management LLC raised its position in shares of American Express by 3.8% in the second quarter. DLK Investment Management LLC now owns 869 shares of the payment services companys stock valued at $277,000 after buying an additional 32 shares during the last quarter. Bahl & Gaynor Inc. lifted its stake in shares of American Express by 1.0% in the second quarter. Bahl & Gaynor Inc. now owns 3,291 shares of the payment services companys stock worth $1,050,000 after buying an additional 33 shares in the last quarter. PFG Advisors grew its stake in American Express by 0.7% during the 2nd quarter. PFG Advisors now owns 5,059 shares of the payment services companys stock valued at $1,614,000 after acquiring an additional 34 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Financial Engines Advisors L.L.C. grew its position in shares of American Express by 4.7% in the first quarter. Financial Engines Advisors L.L.C. now owns 772 shares of the payment services companys stock valued at $208,000 after purchasing an additional 35 shares in the last quarter. 84.33% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Get American Express alerts:

Analyst Ratings Changes

AXP has been the topic of a number of recent research reports. UBS Group boosted their price objective on American Express from $330.00 to $340.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 7th. Barclays raised their price target on shares of American Express from $336.00 to $355.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Monday, October 20th. HSBC set a $295.00 price target on American Express and gave the company a hold rating in a research note on Friday, October 10th. Compass Point reaffirmed a neutral rating and issued a $324.00 target price on shares of American Express in a research report on Monday, October 20th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company upped their price objective on shares of American Express from $375.00 to $400.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Monday, October 20th. Nine equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, fourteen have assigned a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, American Express has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $332.65.

American Express Stock Up 0.4%

AXP stock opened at $364.26 on Friday. American Express Company has a fifty-two week low of $220.43 and a fifty-two week high of $377.23. The companys 50 day moving average price is $347.70 and its 200 day moving average price is $322.36. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.78, a quick ratio of 1.59 and a current ratio of 1.61. The firm has a market capitalization of $250.92 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 24.45, a PEG ratio of 1.90 and a beta of 1.27.

American Express (NYSE:AXP  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Friday, October 17th. The payment services company reported $4.14 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $3.98 by $0.16. The business had revenue of $17.14 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $18.03 billion. American Express had a net margin of 14.97% and a return on equity of 33.41%. The companys revenue was up 11.0% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the business earned $3.49 EPS. American Express has set its FY 2025 guidance at 15.200-15.500 EPS. On average, equities research analysts anticipate that American Express Company will post 15.33 EPS for the current fiscal year.

American Express Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, November 10th. Investors of record on Friday, October 10th were paid a dividend of $0.82 per share. The ex-dividend date was Friday, October 10th. This represents a $3.28 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.9%. American Expresss payout ratio is presently 22.01%.

Insider Buying and Selling

In other American Express news, insider Denise Pickett sold 5,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, October 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $350.73, for a total transaction of $1,753,650.00. Following the sale, the insider owned 7,726 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,709,739.98. This trade represents a 39.29% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. Also, CEO Stephen J. Squeri sold 112,272 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, September 4th. The stock was sold at an average price of $329.86, for a total transaction of $37,034,041.92. Following the sale, the chief executive officer owned 92,810 shares of the companys stock, valued at $30,614,306.60. This represents a 54.74% decrease in their position. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Insiders sold a total of 193,292 shares of company stock valued at $65,363,878 over the last three months. 0.20% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

American Express Company Profile

(Free Report)

American Express Company, together with its subsidiaries, operates as integrated payments company in the United States, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, the Asia Pacific, Australia, New Zealand, Latin America, Canada, the Caribbean, and Internationally. It operates through four segments: U.S. Consumer Services, Commercial Services, International Card Services, and Global Merchant and Network Services.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding AXP? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for American Express Company (NYSE:AXP  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for American Express Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for American Express and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB publ cut its stake in W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE:GWW  Free Report) by 1.7% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 134,563 shares of the industrial products companys stock after selling 2,336 shares during the quarter. W.W. Grainger makes up approximately 0.6% of Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB publs investment portfolio, making the stock its 24th largest holding. Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB publ owned approximately 0.28% of W.W. Grainger worth $139,978,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of GWW. Cary Street Partners Investment Advisory LLC boosted its stake in W.W. Grainger by 3.2% in the 1st quarter. Cary Street Partners Investment Advisory LLC now owns 323 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $319,000 after purchasing an additional 10 shares during the period. Hemington Wealth Management lifted its holdings in shares of W.W. Grainger by 0.9% during the first quarter. Hemington Wealth Management now owns 1,139 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $1,125,000 after buying an additional 10 shares in the last quarter. Grove Bank & Trust boosted its position in shares of W.W. Grainger by 52.6% in the second quarter. Grove Bank & Trust now owns 29 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $30,000 after acquiring an additional 10 shares during the period. Ridgewood Investments LLC grew its stake in shares of W.W. Grainger by 50.0% in the second quarter. Ridgewood Investments LLC now owns 30 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $31,000 after acquiring an additional 10 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Brighton Jones LLC grew its stake in shares of W.W. Grainger by 3.3% in the second quarter. Brighton Jones LLC now owns 313 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $326,000 after acquiring an additional 10 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 80.70% of the companys stock.

Get W.W. Grainger alerts:

W.W. Grainger Price Performance

Shares of GWW opened at $945.81 on Friday. The businesss fifty day moving average is $954.14 and its 200 day moving average is $1,005.49. W.W. Grainger, Inc. has a 12-month low of $893.99 and a 12-month high of $1,221.32. The company has a quick ratio of 1.64, a current ratio of 2.82 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.57. The stock has a market cap of $44.97 billion, a P/E ratio of 24.00, a P/E/G ratio of 2.79 and a beta of 1.17.

W.W. Grainger Dividend Announcement

W.W. Grainger ( NYSE:GWW Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Friday, October 31st. The industrial products company reported $10.21 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $9.95 by $0.26. W.W. Grainger had a net margin of 10.99% and a return on equity of 49.63%. The firm had revenue of $4.66 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.64 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $9.87 earnings per share. The businesss revenue was up 6.1% on a year-over-year basis. W.W. Grainger has set its FY 2025 guidance at 39.000-39.750 EPS. Sell-side analysts anticipate that W.W. Grainger, Inc. will post 40.3 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 1st. Investors of record on Monday, November 10th will be given a dividend of $2.26 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, November 10th. This represents a $9.04 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.0%. W.W. Graingers payout ratio is presently 25.35%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several equities analysts have weighed in on the company. Sanford C. Bernstein started coverage on W.W. Grainger in a report on Wednesday, November 12th. They issued a market perform rating and a $975.00 price objective for the company. Royal Bank Of Canada boosted their target price on shares of W.W. Grainger from $1,006.00 to $1,050.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a research note on Monday, November 3rd. Barclays upped their price objective on W.W. Grainger from $963.00 to $975.00 and gave the company an underweight rating in a research note on Friday, November 7th. Morgan Stanley lowered their target price on W.W. Grainger from $1,150.00 to $1,100.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday. Finally, Loop Capital dropped their price target on shares of W.W. Grainger from $1,000.00 to $950.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, August 4th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, six have assigned a Hold rating and two have issued a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Reduce and a consensus target price of $1,009.43.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on GWW

Insider Transactions at W.W. Grainger

In related news, SVP Jonny M. Leroy sold 500 shares of the stock in a transaction on Tuesday, September 9th. The stock was sold at an average price of $992.86, for a total value of $496,430.00. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president directly owned 1,771 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,758,355.06. This represents a 22.02% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Company insiders own 6.10% of the companys stock.

W.W. Grainger Profile

(Free Report)

W.W. Grainger, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, distributes maintenance, repair, and operating products and services primarily in North America, Japan, the United Kingdom, and internationally. The company operates through two segments, High-Touch Solutions N.A. and Endless Assortment. The company provides safety, security, material handling and storage equipment, pumps and plumbing equipment, cleaning and maintenance, and metalworking and hand tools.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for W.W. Grainger Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for W.W. Grainger and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Alexandria Real Estate Equities (NYSE:ARE  Get Free Report) had its price objective dropped by analysts at Evercore ISI from $74.00 to $72.00 in a report issued on Friday,MarketScreener reports. The firm presently has an outperform rating on the real estate investment trusts stock. Evercore ISIs target price would suggest a potential upside of 32.94% from the companys current price.

ARE has been the subject of a number of other research reports. Jefferies Financial Group set a $62.00 target price on shares of Alexandria Real Estate Equities and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. BNP Paribas Exane reduced their price objective on shares of Alexandria Real Estate Equities from $82.00 to $72.00 and set an underperform rating for the company in a research note on Tuesday, October 28th. Citigroup reissued a neutral rating on shares of Alexandria Real Estate Equities in a report on Monday, November 3rd. BMO Capital Markets reduced their price target on Alexandria Real Estate Equities from $100.00 to $67.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Monday. Finally, Weiss Ratings reiterated a sell (d) rating on shares of Alexandria Real Estate Equities in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, seven have given a Hold rating and four have given a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $76.43.

Get Alexandria Real Estate Equities alerts:

Get Our Latest Stock Report on ARE

Alexandria Real Estate Equities Stock Performance

ARE traded up $0.59 during midday trading on Friday, reaching $54.16. The company had a trading volume of 94,810 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,764,701. Alexandria Real Estate Equities has a 12-month low of $48.66 and a 12-month high of $111.51. The business has a 50-day moving average price of $67.84 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $73.44. The stock has a market cap of $9.36 billion, a PE ratio of -21.97, a P/E/G ratio of 5.06 and a beta of 1.29. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.65, a quick ratio of 0.23 and a current ratio of 0.24.

Alexandria Real Estate Equities (NYSE:ARE  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Monday, October 27th. The real estate investment trust reported $2.22 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $2.31 by ($0.09). Alexandria Real Estate Equities had a negative return on equity of 1.89% and a negative net margin of 13.43%.The company had revenue of $751.94 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $752.90 million. During the same period last year, the firm posted $2.37 EPS. The companys revenue for the quarter was down 5.0% compared to the same quarter last year. Alexandria Real Estate Equities has set its FY 2025 guidance at 8.980-9.040 EPS. On average, sell-side analysts expect that Alexandria Real Estate Equities will post 9.32 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Institutional Trading of Alexandria Real Estate Equities

A number of hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in ARE. Sound Income Strategies LLC purchased a new stake in Alexandria Real Estate Equities during the second quarter valued at about $25,000. Loomis Sayles & Co. L P bought a new position in shares of Alexandria Real Estate Equities during the 2nd quarter valued at about $27,000. American National Bank & Trust purchased a new position in shares of Alexandria Real Estate Equities during the 2nd quarter valued at about $29,000. Avalon Trust Co bought a new stake in Alexandria Real Estate Equities in the 3rd quarter worth approximately $29,000. Finally, Cornerstone Planning Group LLC lifted its position in Alexandria Real Estate Equities by 5,916.7% in the 3rd quarter. Cornerstone Planning Group LLC now owns 361 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $30,000 after buying an additional 355 shares during the last quarter. 96.54% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

About Alexandria Real Estate Equities

(Get Free Report)

Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc (NYSE: ARE), an S&P 500 company, is a best-in-class, mission-driven life science REIT making a positive and lasting impact on the world. As the pioneer of the life science real estate niche since our founding in 1994, Alexandria is the preeminent and longest-tenured owner, operator, and developer of collaborative life science, agtech, and advanced technology mega campuses in AAA innovation cluster locations, including Greater Boston, the San Francisco Bay Area, New York City, San Diego, Seattle, Maryland, and Research Triangle.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Alexandria Real Estate Equities Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Alexandria Real Estate Equities and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
AMA Group Limited (ASX:AMA  Get Free Report) insider Brian Austin purchased 344,895 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, November 20th. The shares were acquired at an average cost of A$0.84 per share, with a total value of A$287,987.33.

Brian Austin also recently made the following trade(s):

Get AMA Group alerts:

On Friday, November 21st, Brian Austin bought 14,105 shares of AMA Group stock. The shares were acquired at an average cost of A$0.84 per share, for a total transaction of A$11,777.68.

On Friday, November 14th, Brian Austin purchased 355,000 shares of AMA Group stock. The stock was bought at an average price of A$0.85 per share, for a total transaction of A$301,750.00.

On Monday, November 3rd, Brian Austin purchased 2,000,000 shares of AMA Group stock. The shares were bought at an average price of A$0.10 per share, for a total transaction of A$198,000.00.

AMA Group Price Performance

The company has a current ratio of 0.64, a quick ratio of 0.64 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 420.06. The firm has a market capitalization of $258.26 million, a P/E ratio of -14.29 and a beta of 1.08.

About AMA Group

AMA Group Limited operates vehicle and heavy motor collision repair facilities in Australia and New Zealand. It operates through three segments: Vehicle Collision Repairs, Heavy Motors, and Supply. The company offers rapid repairs of cars; specialized facilities for all commercial vehicle repairs; and genuine, reclaimed, and aftermarket parts, as well as collision repair consumables for the mechanical and collision repair sectors.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for AMA Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for AMA Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Nazrin Abdul



The inaugural meeting of the AzerbaijanUnited Arab Emirates (UAE) Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Cooperation Committee took place in Abu Dhabi, Azernews reports, citing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The committee was established following the Joint Declaration on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Azerbaijan and the UAE, signed during the UAE Presidents visit to Azerbaijan on September 16 of this year. The meeting was co-chaired by Azerbaijans Deputy Foreign Minister Yalchin Rafiev and UAE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Saeed Al Hajeri.

In line with the committees format, initial sessions were held within its subcommittees, covering political and diplomatic, economic, humanitarian, defense and law enforcement, as well as energy and sustainability cooperation. Discussions focused on existing collaboration in these areas, potential projects, and proposals for strengthening bilateral relations.

Within the framework of the meeting, Deputy Minister Rafiev and Minister Al Hajeri held a one-on-one discussion, followed by an expanded session attended by co-chairs, representatives of relevant agencies, and the ambassadors of both countries. During the session, the subcommittee co-chairs presented proposals and project ideas. The co-chairs emphasized the importance of concrete outcomes and outlined expectations for future work, including the development and adoption of roadmaps and action plans. The schedule and modalities for upcoming meetings and the overall work of the committee were also agreed upon.

Participants expressed satisfaction with the dynamic development of AzerbaijanUAE relations in recent years. They highlighted the crucial role of reciprocal state visits and agreements reached during these visits in elevating bilateral ties to the level of a comprehensive strategic partnership.

The meeting was attended by representatives from Azerbaijans Ministry of Economy, Ministry of Energy, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Defense, Ministry of Internal Affairs, Ministry of Digital Development and Transport, Ministry of Science and Education, Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Agriculture, as well as the State Tourism Agency, SOCAR, and Azerbaijan Investment Holding.
BEIJING, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te's so-called security action plan has revealed his attempt to pursue secession through foreign backing and military means, which will bring extreme harm and catastrophe to the island, according to mainland scholars.

Lai announced an additional 1.25 trillion New Taiwan dollars (about 40 billion U.S. dollars) in so-called "defense budget," which seriously undermines cross-Strait peace and stability, said Li Zhenguang, a Taiwan affairs professor at Beijing Union University.

Lai has developed all-around military preparations to advance secession by increasing the proportion of the defense budget, optimizing the mechanism to purchase weapons, and formulating a development plan for the defense industry, said Chen Guiqing, a research fellow at the Beijing-based Institute of Taiwan Studies, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.

Chen noted that the massive defense budget will severely squeeze Taiwan's spending on people's livelihoods, education, medical care and other areas, ultimately undermining the wellbeing of Taiwan compatriots.

Lai's systematic "Taiwan independence" provocations have seriously undermined cross-Strait peace and stability, violated the one-China principle endorsed by the international community, challenged the post-World War II international order, and thus brought greater uncertainty and higher risks to regional peace and stability, Chen stressed.

Lai's "security action plan" seeks to echo Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's erroneous remarks on Taiwan, so as to collude with foreign interference forces, said Wang Yingjin, director of the cross-Strait relations research center of the Renmin University of China.

On the other hand, Lai also attempted to further provoke cross-Strait antagonism to consolidate his hold on power, Wang added, noting that the vast majority of Taiwan compatriots aspire for the island authorities to focus on economic development and improving people's livelihoods, instead of creating tension and turmoil across the Strait.

However, Lai has placed his selfish desires and political interests above the wellbeing of the people on the island. If Lai continues to dash down the path of "Taiwan independence," he will inevitably bring immense disaster to the people of Taiwan, Wang said. 
Shares of Jeronimo Martins SGPS SA (OTCMKTS:JRONY  Get Free Report) gapped down before the market opened on Friday . The stock had previously closed at $49.56, but opened at $47.3090. Jeronimo Martins SGPS shares last traded at $47.29, with a volume of 1,070 shares trading hands.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Separately, Kepler Capital Markets upgraded Jeronimo Martins SGPS from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Wednesday, November 5th. One research 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 company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy.

Get Jeronimo Martins SGPS alerts:

Get Our Latest Analysis on Jeronimo Martins SGPS

Jeronimo Martins SGPS Stock Down 4.2%

The business has a fifty day moving average of $48.98 and a 200 day moving average of $49.71. The stock has a market capitalization of $14.84 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 20.87, a PEG ratio of 1.46 and a beta of 0.88. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.14, a current ratio of 0.57 and a quick ratio of 0.31.

Jeronimo Martins SGPS (OTCMKTS:JRONY  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, October 29th. The company reported $0.79 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.77 by $0.02. Jeronimo Martins SGPS had a return on equity of 21.70% and a net margin of 1.83%.The company had revenue of $10.66 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $10.61 billion. As a group, equities analysts predict that Jeronimo Martins SGPS SA will post 2.13 earnings per share for the current year.

About Jeronimo Martins SGPS

(Get Free Report)

Jeronimo Martins, SGPS, SA operates in the food distribution and specialized retail sectors in Portugal, Poland, and Colombia. The company operates through Portugal Retail; Portugal Cash & Carry; Poland Retail; Colombia Retail; and Others, Eliminations and Adjustments segments. It operates food stores under the Biedronka name; and a chain of health and beauty stores under the Hebe banner in Poland, as well as food stores under the Ara name in Colombia.

Read More

Receive News & Ratings for Jeronimo Martins SGPS Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Jeronimo Martins SGPS and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia, Tbk (NYSE:TLK  Get Free Report)s stock price gapped down prior to trading on Friday . The stock had previously closed at $22.36, but opened at $21.40. PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia, Tbk shares last traded at $21.36, with a volume of 96,357 shares trading hands.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Separately, Weiss Ratings reissued a sell (d+) rating on shares of PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia, Tbk in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia, Tbk has an average rating of Reduce.

Get PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia Tbk alerts:

Get Our Latest Analysis on TLK

PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia, Tbk Stock Down 4.6%

The firm has a market capitalization of $21.13 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 14.92, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.84 and a beta of 0.61. The business has a 50 day moving average of $19.80 and a 200 day moving average of $18.48. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.17, a current ratio of 0.71 and a quick ratio of 0.70.

PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia, Tbk (NYSE:TLK  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The utilities provider reported $0.30 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.31 by ($0.01). The business had revenue of $2.23 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $38,172.05 billion. PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia, Tbk had a return on equity of 14.72% and a net margin of 15.49%. On average, equities analysts anticipate that PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia, Tbk will post 1.5 EPS for the current year.

Institutional Trading of PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia, Tbk

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in TLK. Lazard Asset Management LLC lifted its stake in PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia, Tbk by 34.6% during the third quarter. Lazard Asset Management LLC now owns 20,071,706 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $377,750,000 after purchasing an additional 5,154,799 shares during the period. Invesco Ltd. bought a new position in shares of PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia, Tbk during the 1st quarter worth approximately $33,124,000. Northern Trust Corp boosted its stake in PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia, Tbk by 106.2% in the 1st quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 855,287 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $12,633,000 after buying an additional 440,426 shares in the last quarter. Millennium Management LLC grew its position in PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia, Tbk by 606.8% in the first quarter. Millennium Management LLC now owns 468,651 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $6,922,000 after acquiring an additional 402,344 shares during the period. Finally, Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership raised its stake in PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia, Tbk by 85.1% during the second quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership now owns 714,291 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $12,100,000 after acquiring an additional 328,332 shares in the last quarter.

About PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia, Tbk

(Get Free Report)

Perusahaan Perseroan (Persero) PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia Tbk provides information and communications technology, and telecommunications network services worldwide. The company operates through mobile, consumer, enterprise, Wholesale and International Business, and Other segments. The Mobile segment offers mobile voice, SMS, value added services, and mobile broadband services.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia Tbk Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia Tbk and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Northland Power, Inc. (OTCMKTS:NPIFF  Get Free Report)s stock price gapped up prior to trading on Friday . The stock had previously closed at $11.7499, but opened at $12.4750. Northland Power shares last traded at $12.0520, with a volume of 7,052 shares traded.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several equities research analysts have commented on NPIFF shares. BMO Capital Markets restated an outperform rating on shares of Northland Power in a research report on Thursday, August 14th. TD Securities lowered Northland Power from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Friday, November 21st. CIBC reaffirmed an outperform rating on shares of Northland Power in a research note on Friday, November 21st. Desjardins lowered shares of Northland Power to a hold rating in a research report on Friday, November 14th. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada restated an outperform rating on shares of Northland Power in a report on Friday, November 14th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and three have assigned a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy.

Get Northland Power alerts:

View Our Latest Research Report on Northland Power

Northland Power Stock Up 2.6%

Northland Power Cuts Dividend

The company has a market capitalization of $3.15 billion and a P/E ratio of -14.88. The company has a current ratio of 0.91, a quick ratio of 0.91 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.32. The stocks fifty day moving average is $16.39 and its 200 day moving average is $16.09.

The firm also recently declared a dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 15th. Shareholders of record on Monday, December 1st will be given a dividend of $0.0714 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 28th. This represents a yield of 744.0%. Northland Powers dividend payout ratio is presently -104.94%.

Northland Power Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Northland Power Inc, an independent power producer, develops, builds, owns, and operates clean and green power projects in Canada, Netherlands, Germany, Spain, Colombia, and internationally. The company produces electricity from renewable resources, such as wind and solar, as well as natural gas for sale under power purchase agreements and other revenue arrangements.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Northland Power Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Northland Power and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
F m Investments LLC boosted its holdings in Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY  Free Report) by 0.1% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 36,860 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 52 shares during the quarter. Eli Lilly and Company makes up approximately 1.0% of F m Investments LLCs holdings, making the stock its 18th biggest position. F m Investments LLCs holdings in Eli Lilly and Company were worth $28,732,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Braun Bostich & Associates Inc. increased its holdings in Eli Lilly and Company by 2.5% in the 2nd quarter. Braun Bostich & Associates Inc. now owns 527 shares of the companys stock valued at $411,000 after acquiring an additional 13 shares during the last quarter. Rise Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 1.8% during the 2nd quarter. Rise Advisors LLC now owns 732 shares of the companys stock valued at $571,000 after purchasing an additional 13 shares during the last quarter. Occidental Asset Management LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 0.7% during the 2nd quarter. Occidental Asset Management LLC now owns 1,966 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,533,000 after purchasing an additional 13 shares during the last quarter. New Insight Wealth Advisors grew its position in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 3.4% during the second quarter. New Insight Wealth Advisors now owns 394 shares of the companys stock valued at $307,000 after purchasing an additional 13 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Dash Acquisitions Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 2.8% in the second quarter. Dash Acquisitions Inc. now owns 485 shares of the companys stock worth $387,000 after purchasing an additional 13 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 82.53% of the companys stock.

Get Eli Lilly and Company alerts:

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of equities research analysts recently commented on the company. UBS Group boosted their target price on Eli Lilly and Company from $895.00 to $1,080.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Friday, November 7th. Leerink Partners raised Eli Lilly and Company from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and lifted their price objective for the stock from $886.00 to $1,104.00 in a research note on Monday, November 10th. Erste Group Bank upgraded Eli Lilly and Company from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 14th. Daiwa America lowered shares of Eli Lilly and Company from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Sunday, August 17th. Finally, Leerink Partnrs upgraded shares of Eli Lilly and Company from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Monday, November 10th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, fifteen have issued a Buy rating and seven have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $1,047.50.

Eli Lilly and Company Stock Down 0.4%

NYSE LLY opened at $1,105.45 on Friday. The company has a quick ratio of 1.00, a current ratio of 1.28 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.86. Eli Lilly and Company has a 52 week low of $623.78 and a 52 week high of $1,111.99. The firm has a market capitalization of $1.05 trillion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 72.25, a PEG ratio of 1.21 and a beta of 0.43. The company has a fifty day moving average of $882.95 and a two-hundred day moving average of $797.01.

Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The company reported $7.02 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate 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 the consensus estimate of $16.09 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $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 predict that Eli Lilly and Company will post 23.48 earnings per share for the current year.

Eli Lilly and Company Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed 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 of this dividend is Friday, November 14th. This represents a $6.00 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.5%. Eli Lilly and Companys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 29.35%.

Eli Lilly and 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.

See Also

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding LLY? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY  Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Eli Lilly and Company Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Eli Lilly and Company and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Klepierre (OTCMKTS:KLPEF  Get Free Report) and Advanced Oxygen Technologies (OTCMKTS:AOXY  Get Free Report) are both finance companies, but which is the better investment? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their risk, analyst recommendations, profitability, dividends, valuation, institutional ownership and earnings.

Analyst Recommendations

This is a summary of recent recommendations and price targets for Klepierre and Advanced Oxygen Technologies, as reported by MarketBeat.

Get Klepierre alerts:

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Klepierre 0 1 0 1 3.00 Advanced Oxygen Technologies 0 0 0 0 0.00

Risk and Volatility

Klepierre has a beta of 1.32, meaning that its stock price is 32% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Advanced Oxygen Technologies has a beta of 1.16, meaning that its stock price is 16% more volatile than the S&P 500.

Profitability

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Klepierre N/A N/A N/A Advanced Oxygen Technologies 9.09% 1.37% 0.75%

Valuation and Earnings

This table compares Klepierre and Advanced Oxygen Technologies net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

This table compares Klepierre and Advanced Oxygen Technologiess revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Klepierre $1.33 billion 8.56 $1.19 billion N/A N/A Advanced Oxygen Technologies $40,000.00 6.59 N/A N/A N/A

Klepierre has higher revenue and earnings than Advanced Oxygen Technologies.

Summary

Klepierre beats Advanced Oxygen Technologies on 5 of the 8 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Klepierre

(Get Free Report)

Klepierre SA is the European leader in shopping malls, combining property development and asset management skills. The Company's portfolio is valued at 19.3 billion at December 31, 2023, and comprises large shopping centers in more than 10 countries in Continental Europe which together host hundreds of millions of visitors per year. Klepierre SA holds a controlling stake in Steen & Strm (56.1%), Scandinavia's number one shopping center owner and manager. Klepierre SA is a French REIT (SIIC) listed on Euronext Paris and is included in the CAC Next 20 and EPRA Euro Zone Indexes. It is also included in ethical indexes, such as Euronext CAC 40 ESG, Euronext CAC SBT 1.5, MSCI Europe ESG Leaders, FTSE4Good, Euronext Vigeo Europe 120, and features in CDP's A-list. These distinctions underscore the Group's commitment to a proactive sustainable development policy and its global leadership in the fight against climate change.

About Advanced Oxygen Technologies

(Get Free Report)

Advanced Oxygen Technologies, Inc., through its subsidiaries, owns and leases a commercial real estate property in Vojens, Denmark. It also engages in the distribution and sale of cargo security straps and tie-downs. The company was formerly known as Aquanautic Corporation. The company was incorporated in 1981 and is headquartered in Randolph, Vermont.

Receive News & Ratings for Klepierre Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Klepierre and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Coinbase Global, Robinhood Markets, JPMorgan Chase & Co., Visa, and SoFi Technologies are the five Financial stocks to watch today, according to MarketBeats stock screener tool. Financial stocks are shares of companies in the financial sectorbanks, insurance firms, brokerages, asset managers, payment processors and similar businesseswhose revenues come from lending, underwriting, fees, premiums and asset management. For investors, these equities offer exposure to interest-rate and credit-cycle dynamics and can provide dividend income, but they also carry sector-specific risks like regulatory changes, loan defaults and market volatility. These companies had the highest dollar trading volume of any Financial stocks within the last several days.

Get alerts:

Coinbase Global (COIN)

Coinbase Global, Inc. provides financial infrastructure and technology for the crypto economy in the United States and internationally. The company offers the primary financial account in the crypto economy for consumers; and a marketplace with a pool of liquidity for transacting in crypto assets for institutions.

Robinhood Markets (HOOD)

Robinhood Markets, Inc. operates financial services platform in the United States. Its platform allows users to invest in stocks, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), American depository receipts, options, gold, and cryptocurrencies. The company offers fractional trading, recurring investments, fully-paid securities lending, access to investing on margin, cash sweep, instant withdrawals, retirement program, around-the-clock trading, and initial public offerings participation services.

Read Our Latest Research Report on HOOD

JPMorgan Chase & Co. (JPM)

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.

Read Our Latest Research Report on JPM

Visa (V)

Visa Inc. operates as a payment technology company in the United States and internationally. The company operates VisaNet, a transaction processing network that enables authorization, clearing, and settlement of payment transactions. It also offers credit, debit, and prepaid card products; tap to pay, tokenization, and click to pay services; Visa Direct, a solution that facilitates the delivery of funds to eligible cards, deposit accounts, and digital wallets; Visa B2B Connect, a multilateral business-to-business cross-border payments network; Visa Cross-Border Solution, a cross-border consumer payments solution; and Visa DPS that provides a range of value-added services, including fraud mitigation, dispute management, data analytics, campaign management, a suite of digital solutions, and contact center services.

Read Our Latest Research Report on V

SoFi Technologies (SOFI)

SoFi Technologies, Inc. provides various financial services in the United States, Latin America, and Canada. It operates through three segments: Lending, Technology Platform, and Financial Services. The company offers lending and financial services and products that allows its members to borrow, save, spend, invest, and protect money.

Read Our Latest Research Report on SOFI

Read More
iShares MSCI Germany ETF (NYSEARCA:EWG  Get Free Report) saw unusually large options trading on Friday. Investors purchased 8,496 call options on the company. This represents an increase of approximately 309% compared to the average daily volume of 2,077 call options.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On iShares MSCI Germany ETF

Several large investors have recently bought and sold shares of EWG. Advisory Services Network LLC bought a new position in shares of iShares MSCI Germany ETF in the third quarter valued at approximately $83,000. Qube Research & Technologies Ltd boosted its stake in shares of iShares MSCI Germany ETF by 93.8% during the 3rd quarter. Qube Research & Technologies Ltd now owns 228,114 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $9,492,000 after acquiring an additional 110,420 shares in the last quarter. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. boosted its stake in shares of iShares MSCI Germany ETF by 303.6% during the 3rd quarter. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. now owns 29,653 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $1,234,000 after acquiring an additional 22,306 shares in the last quarter. Mariner LLC grew its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI Germany ETF by 2.1% in the 3rd quarter. Mariner LLC now owns 46,237 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $1,924,000 after acquiring an additional 940 shares during the last quarter. Finally, National Bank of Canada FI raised its position in shares of iShares MSCI Germany ETF by 1.5% during the third quarter. National Bank of Canada FI now owns 25,516 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $1,062,000 after purchasing an additional 389 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 53.42% of the companys stock.

Get iShares MSCI Germany ETF alerts:

iShares MSCI Germany ETF Price Performance

Shares of EWG traded up $0.25 during trading hours on Friday, reaching $40.85. 628,934 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 2,579,423. iShares MSCI Germany ETF has a twelve month low of $31.49 and a twelve month high of $43.31. The businesss fifty day simple moving average is $41.14 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $41.57. The firm has a market capitalization of $2.00 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.79 and a beta of 1.03.

iShares MSCI Germany ETF Company Profile

iShares MSCI Germany ETF, formerly iShares MSCI Germany Index Fund (the Fund), is an exchange-traded fund. 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 German market, as measured by the MSCI Germany Index (the Index).

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for iShares MSCI Germany ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares MSCI Germany ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
MGIC Investment (NYSE:MTG  Get Free Report) and SelectQuote (NYSE:SLQT  Get Free Report) are both finance companies, but which is the better stock? We will compare the two businesses based on the strength of their analyst recommendations, profitability, earnings, dividends, valuation, risk and institutional ownership.

Profitability

This table compares MGIC Investment and SelectQuotes net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Get MGIC Investment alerts:

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets MGIC Investment 61.96% 14.63% 11.53% SelectQuote 3.95% 10.41% 2.76%

Analyst Recommendations

This is a breakdown of recent ratings and target prices for MGIC Investment and SelectQuote, as reported by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score MGIC Investment 2 3 0 1 2.00 SelectQuote 1 3 0 1 2.20

Risk & Volatility

MGIC Investment presently has a consensus target price of $26.80, suggesting a potential downside of 5.50%. SelectQuote has a consensus target price of $3.88, suggesting a potential upside of 169.10%. Given SelectQuotes stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, analysts clearly believe SelectQuote is more favorable than MGIC Investment.

MGIC Investment has a beta of 0.92, indicating that its share price is 8% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, SelectQuote has a beta of 1.26, indicating that its share price is 26% more volatile than the S&P 500.

Institutional and Insider Ownership

95.6% of MGIC Investment shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 34.6% of SelectQuote shares are held by institutional investors. 1.1% of MGIC Investment shares are held by insiders. Comparatively, 13.1% of SelectQuote shares are held by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that large money managers, hedge funds and endowments believe a company is poised for long-term growth.

Earnings and Valuation

This table compares MGIC Investment and SelectQuotes revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio MGIC Investment $1.22 billion 5.22 $762.99 million $3.11 9.12 SelectQuote $1.56 billion 0.16 $47.58 million $0.05 28.80

MGIC Investment has higher earnings, but lower revenue than SelectQuote. MGIC Investment is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than SelectQuote, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Summary

MGIC Investment beats SelectQuote on 7 of the 13 factors compared between the two stocks.

About MGIC Investment

(Get Free Report)

MGIC Investment Corporation, through its subsidiaries, provides private mortgage insurance, other mortgage credit risk management solutions, and ancillary services to lenders and government sponsored entities in the United States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and Guam. The company offers primary mortgage insurance that provides mortgage default protection on individual loans, as well as covers unpaid loan principal, delinquent interest, and various expenses associated with the default and subsequent foreclosure. It also provides pool insurance for secondary market mortgage transactions; and contract underwriting services, as well as reinsurance. The company serves originators of residential mortgage loans, including savings institutions, commercial banks, mortgage brokers, credit unions, mortgage bankers, and other lenders. MGIC Investment Corporation was founded in 1957 and is headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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.

Receive News & Ratings for MGIC Investment Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for MGIC Investment and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Grupo Simec, S.A. de C.V. (NYSEAMERICAN:SIM  Get Free Report) shares were up 6.9% during trading on Friday . The company traded as high as $29.48 and last traded at $30.99. Approximately 959 shares were traded during mid-day trading, a decline of 46% from the average daily volume of 1,774 shares. The stock had previously closed at $28.99.

Grupo Simec Stock Down 0.4%

The stock has a market cap of $4.44 billion, a PE ratio of 26.49 and a beta of 0.25. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $27.96 and a 200 day moving average price of $27.66.

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.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Grupo Simec Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Grupo Simec and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Galiano Gold Inc. (NYSEAMERICAN:GAU  Get Free Report) saw unusually-high trading volume on Friday . Approximately 3,129,901 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, an increase of 71% from the previous sessions volume of 1,828,963 shares.The stock last traded at $2.4350 and had previously closed at $2.36.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Separately, HC Wainwright lifted their target price on Galiano Gold from $2.80 to $3.20 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Thursday, August 14th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $3.20.

Get Galiano Gold alerts:

View Our Latest Stock Analysis on GAU

Galiano Gold Stock Performance

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

The firm has a fifty day moving average of $2.43 and a 200 day moving average of $1.92. The firm has a market capitalization of $629.05 million, a PE ratio of -80.97 and a beta of 0.65.

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Raymond James Financial Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Galiano Gold during the third quarter worth about $28,000. SBI Securities Co. Ltd. grew its stake in Galiano Gold by 939.4% during the 2nd quarter. SBI Securities Co. Ltd. now owns 25,009 shares of the companys stock valued at $32,000 after purchasing an additional 22,603 shares in the last quarter. Schonfeld Strategic Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in Galiano Gold during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $96,000. American Century Companies Inc. raised its position in shares of Galiano Gold by 25.9% in the 2nd quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 46,431 shares of the companys stock valued at $59,000 after purchasing an additional 9,558 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Dynamic Technology Lab Private Ltd boosted its stake in shares of Galiano Gold by 177.0% during the 2nd quarter. Dynamic Technology Lab Private Ltd now owns 46,466 shares of the companys stock valued at $59,000 after buying an additional 29,690 shares during the last quarter. 66.82% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

About Galiano Gold

(Get Free Report)

Galiano Gold Inc engages in the exploration and evaluation of gold properties in Canada. Its flagship asset is the Asanko Gold Mine that covers an area of approximately 21,000 hectares located in Ghana, West Africa. The company was formerly known as Asanko Gold Inc and changed its name to Galiano Gold Inc in May 2020.

Further Reading

Receive News & Ratings for Galiano Gold Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Galiano Gold and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
GAZA, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- An Israeli drone strike killed a Palestinian man in the southern Gaza Strip on Friday, medical officials said, as sporadic violence continues despite a ceasefire agreement in place since October.

The man was killed in Bani Suhaila, a town east of Khan Younis currently under Israeli military control, officials at the Nasser Medical Complex reported.

The death brings the number of Palestinians killed in Gaza since the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas took effect on Oct. 10 to 350, according to Gaza's health authorities.

Elsewhere in the strip, witnesses and local sources reported Israeli artillery shelling on Friday in the eastern outskirts of Khan Younis and Rafah. Israeli military vehicles also opened fire northeast of the Bureij refugee camp in central Gaza.

In Gaza City, witnesses said Israeli forces detonated several residential buildings in the Shuja'iyya and Tuffah neighborhoods, areas operating under Israeli control.

The Israeli military did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the incidents.

Palestinian security sources estimate that Israeli forces currently control approximately 53 percent of the Gaza Strip.

Hamas has repeatedly accused Israel of violating the ceasefire terms by crossing the "Yellow Line" -- the demarcation of current positions -- and advancing westward. The group says these movements have triggered further mass displacement, accompanied by continued airstrikes and shelling in eastern areas of the enclave. 
Mohawk Industries, Inc. (NYSE:MHK  Get Free Report) insider Suzanne Helen sold 635 shares of the stock in a transaction on Wednesday, November 26th. The shares were sold at an average price of $115.04, for a total transaction of $73,050.40. Following the sale, the insider directly owned 79,243 shares of the companys stock, valued at $9,116,114.72. The trade was a 0.79% 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.

Mohawk Industries Trading Up 0.3%

NYSE:MHK traded up $0.35 during trading hours on Friday, hitting $115.85. The company had a trading volume of 239,665 shares, compared to its average volume of 802,810. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.21, a current ratio of 2.25 and a quick ratio of 1.24. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $118.78 and a 200 day moving average price of $116.69. The company has a market capitalization of $7.16 billion, a PE ratio of 17.24, a price-to-earnings-growth 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 $143.13.

Get Mohawk Industries alerts:

Mohawk Industries (NYSE:MHK  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, October 23rd. The company reported $2.67 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $2.68 by ($0.01). Mohawk Industries had a return on equity of 6.97% and a net margin of 3.93%.The company had revenue of $2.76 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.73 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted $2.90 earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 1.4% on a year-over-year basis. Mohawk Industries has set its Q4 2025 guidance at 1.900-2.000 EPS. On average, equities research analysts predict that Mohawk Industries, Inc. will post 9.8 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Mohawk Industries

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Yousif Capital Management LLC boosted its stake in Mohawk Industries by 1.1% during the 2nd quarter. Yousif Capital Management LLC now owns 8,374 shares of the companys stock valued at $878,000 after purchasing an additional 88 shares during the last quarter. Public Employees Retirement System of Ohio lifted its stake in Mohawk Industries by 0.6% during the 3rd quarter. Public Employees Retirement System of Ohio now owns 17,254 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,224,000 after acquiring an additional 100 shares during the period. Resona Asset Management Co. Ltd. boosted its holdings in shares of Mohawk Industries by 22.6% during the 3rd quarter. Resona Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 612 shares of the companys stock valued at $78,000 after acquiring an additional 113 shares during the last quarter. AlphaQuest LLC grew its stake in shares of Mohawk Industries by 4.2% in the third quarter. AlphaQuest LLC now owns 2,774 shares of the companys stock worth $358,000 after acquiring an additional 113 shares during the period. Finally, Hantz Financial Services Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Mohawk Industries by 4.1% during the third quarter. Hantz Financial Services Inc. now owns 2,912 shares of the companys stock valued at $375,000 after purchasing an additional 116 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 78.98% of the companys stock.

MHK has been the topic of a number of research analyst reports. Wells Fargo & Company reiterated a neutral rating and set a $130.00 target price on shares of Mohawk Industries in a report on Monday, October 27th. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c-) rating on shares of Mohawk Industries in a research note on Friday, October 31st. Evercore ISI decreased their price objective on Mohawk Industries from $124.00 to $118.00 and set an in-line rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, November 19th. Barclays dropped their target price on shares of Mohawk Industries from $125.00 to $122.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a report on Monday, October 27th. Finally, Raymond James Financial reaffirmed a strong-buy rating and issued a $150.00 target price (up from $140.00) on shares of Mohawk Industries in a research report on Tuesday, October 21st. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eight have assigned a Buy rating and six have assigned a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Mohawk Industries has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $138.00.

Get Our Latest Analysis on Mohawk Industries

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.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for Mohawk Industries Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Mohawk Industries and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Flex LNG Ltd. (NYSE:FLNG  Get Free Report) shares traded down 3.5% during trading on Friday . The stock traded as low as $25.33 and last traded at $25.3560. 215,471 shares were traded during trading, a decline of 51% from the average session volume of 436,995 shares. The stock had previously closed at $26.27.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several research firms have recently weighed in on FLNG. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c) rating on shares of Flex LNG in a report on Tuesday. Jefferies Financial Group reaffirmed a hold rating and set a $23.00 price objective on shares of Flex LNG in a research report on Wednesday, August 20th. Finally, Wall Street Zen lowered Flex LNG from a hold rating to a sell rating in a report on Saturday, November 15th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating, According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $23.00.

Get Flex LNG alerts:

View Our Latest Report on Flex LNG

Flex LNG Price Performance

The company has a quick ratio of 2.81, a current ratio of 2.84 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.23. The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $25.60 and a 200 day simple moving average of $24.84. The company has a market capitalization of $1.38 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.88 and a beta of 0.49.

Flex LNG (NYSE:FLNG  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, November 12th. The company reported $0.43 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.46 by ($0.03). Flex LNG had a return on equity of 14.41% and a net margin of 27.84%.The company had revenue of $85.70 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $83.52 million. As a group, research analysts predict that Flex LNG Ltd. will post 1.9 EPS for the current year.

Flex LNG Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, December 11th. Investors of record on Friday, November 28th will be given a $0.75 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, November 28th. This represents a $3.00 annualized dividend and a yield of 11.8%. Flex LNGs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 163.93%.

Institutional Trading of Flex LNG

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. MIRAE ASSET GLOBAL ETFS HOLDINGS Ltd. acquired a new stake in shares of Flex LNG during the third quarter valued at approximately $28,392,000. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership acquired a new position in shares of Flex LNG during the 3rd quarter valued at about $9,764,000. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP acquired a new stake in shares of Flex LNG in the third quarter worth $9,497,000. Two Sigma Investments LP boosted its holdings in Flex LNG by 834.5% during the third quarter. Two Sigma Investments LP now owns 271,681 shares of the companys stock valued at $6,846,000 after acquiring an additional 242,608 shares during the period. Finally, KLP Kapitalforvaltning AS bought a new position in Flex LNG in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $2,936,000.

Flex LNG Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

FLEX LNG Ltd. engages in the seaborne transportation of liquefied natural gas (LPG) through the ownership and operation of LNG carriers. The company was founded by Philip Eystein Fjeld, Trym Tveitnes and Jostein Ueland in September 2006 and is headquartered in Hamilton, Bermuda.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for Flex LNG Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Flex LNG and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Swedbank AB (OTCMKTS:SWDBY  Get Free Report)s share price reached a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Friday . The stock traded as high as SEK 31.82 and last traded at SEK 31.82, with a volume of 1301 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at SEK 31.56.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several brokerages have recently commented on SWDBY. Morgan Stanley reiterated an underweight rating on shares of Swedbank in a research report on Monday. Zacks Research upgraded shares of Swedbank from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Tuesday, November 18th. Finally, Citigroup reiterated a neutral rating on shares of Swedbank in a report on Tuesday, October 14th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, three have assigned a Hold rating and two have issued a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold.

Get Swedbank alerts:

Get Our Latest Report on SWDBY

Swedbank Price Performance

The companys fifty day moving average price is SEK 30.50 and its two-hundred day moving average price is SEK 28.31. The company has a quick ratio of 1.47, a current ratio of 1.47 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 3.89. The company has a market cap of $35.88 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.03 and a beta of 0.70.

Swedbank (OTCMKTS:SWDBY  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, October 23rd. The financial services provider reported SEK 0.79 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of SEK 0.64 by SEK 0.15. The firm had revenue of SEK 1.80 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of SEK 1.73 billion. Swedbank had a net margin of 26.30% and a return on equity of 16.03%. On average, equities research analysts forecast that Swedbank AB will post 2.34 EPS for the current fiscal year.

About Swedbank

(Get Free Report)

Swedbank AB (publ) provides various banking products and services to private and corporate customers in Sweden, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, the United States, Finland, Denmark, Luxembourg, and China. The company operates through three business areas: Swedish Banking, Baltic Banking, and Corporates and Institutions.

See Also

Receive News & Ratings for Swedbank Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Swedbank and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Shares of Daito Trust Construction Co., Ltd. (OTCMKTS:DIFTY  Get Free Report) saw strong trading volume on Friday . 193,174 shares were traded during mid-day trading, an increase of 181% from the previous sessions volume of 68,763 shares.The stock last traded at $4.75 and had previously closed at $4.73.

Daito Trust Construction Stock Performance

The businesss 50 day simple moving average is $9.38 and its 200-day simple moving average is $21.04.

About Daito Trust Construction

(Get Free Report)

Daito Trust Construction Co,Ltd. designs, constructs, and rents apartments and condominiums in Japan. It operates through three segments: Construction, Real Estate, and Finance. The company design and construct rental housing and other structure construction; ironwork and construction; building management and renovation, and whole building leasing; rental housing tenant guarantor services; advertising; and LP gas supply businesses.

Recommended Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Daito Trust Construction Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Daito Trust Construction and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Idaho Strategic Resources, Inc. (NYSEAMERICAN:IDR  Get Free Report)s stock price was up 8.2% on Friday . The company traded as high as $39.46 and last traded at $39.69. Approximately 237,435 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 42% from the average daily volume of 412,878 shares. The stock had previously closed at $36.68.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Separately, Roth Capital restated a buy rating on shares of Idaho Strategic Resources in a research note on Monday, September 8th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Buy and an average target price of $17.50.

Get Idaho Strategic Resources alerts:

Check Out Our Latest Report on IDR

Idaho Strategic Resources Trading Up 6.8%

The stock has a market cap of $610.82 million, a PE ratio of 55.97 and a beta of 0.72. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.02, a quick ratio of 8.34 and a current ratio of 8.55. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $35.45 and a 200 day moving average price of $24.68.

Idaho Strategic Resources (NYSEAMERICAN:IDR  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, November 12th. The company reported $0.20 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.19 by $0.01. Idaho Strategic Resources had a return on equity of 18.60% and a net margin of 27.82%.The company had revenue of $11.08 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $9.40 million. Equities analysts expect that Idaho Strategic Resources, Inc. will post 0.65 EPS for the current year.

Insider Transactions at Idaho Strategic Resources

In related news, VP Robert John Morgan sold 7,143 shares of Idaho Strategic Resources stock in a transaction dated Monday, September 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $30.52, for a total transaction of $218,004.36. Following the completion of the transaction, the vice president directly owned 33,796 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,031,453.92. The trade was a 17.45% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, CEO John Swallow sold 87,470 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, September 23rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $30.31, for a total transaction of $2,651,215.70. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer owned 695,778 shares in the company, valued at $21,089,031.18. The trade was a 11.17% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. In the last quarter, insiders sold 96,613 shares of company stock worth $2,938,500. 8.69% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Institutional Trading of Idaho Strategic Resources

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Van ECK Associates Corp purchased a new stake in shares of Idaho Strategic Resources in the third quarter valued at approximately $15,711,000. Brevan Howard Capital Management LP bought a new stake in Idaho Strategic Resources during the 3rd quarter valued at $5,616,000. Geode Capital Management LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Idaho Strategic Resources by 127.1% in the 2nd quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 285,573 shares of the companys stock worth $3,736,000 after buying an additional 159,850 shares during the period. Invesco Ltd. purchased a new stake in shares of Idaho Strategic Resources in the 3rd quarter worth $5,351,000. Finally, Thames Capital Management LLC bought a new position in shares of Idaho Strategic Resources during the 3rd quarter worth $4,313,000. Institutional investors own 8.70% of the companys stock.

About Idaho Strategic Resources

(Get Free Report)

Idaho Strategic Resources, Inc, a resource-based company, engages in exploring for, developing, and extracting gold, silver, and base metal mineral resources in the Greater Coeur d'Alene Mining District of North Idaho. Its portfolio of mineral properties includes the Golden Chest Mine, a producing gold mine located in the Murray Gold Belt (MGB) of North Idaho; approximately 1,500 acres of patented mineral property and approximately 5,000 acres of nearby and adjacent un-patented mineral property located within the MGB; rare earth element projects located in the Idaho REE-Th Belt near Salmon, Idaho; and early-stage exploration properties in Central Idaho.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for Idaho Strategic Resources Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Idaho Strategic Resources and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing, Applied Materials, Johnson Controls International, Fabrinet, Phillips 66, Stellantis, and ASE Technology are the seven Manufacturing stocks to watch today, according to MarketBeats stock screener tool. Manufacturing stocks are shares of companies whose primary business is producing physical goodssuch as machinery, automobiles, electronics, chemicals, and consumer productsrather than providing services. Investors view them as often cyclical and capital?intensive, with performance sensitive to economic demand, input costs, supply?chain factors, and capital expenditure cycles. These companies had the highest dollar trading volume of any Manufacturing stocks within the last several days.

Get alerts:

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (TSM)

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures, packages, tests, and sells integrated circuits and other semiconductor devices in Taiwan, China, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Japan, the United States, and internationally. It provides a range of wafer fabrication processes, including processes to manufacture complementary metal- oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) logic, mixed-signal, radio frequency, embedded memory, bipolar CMOS mixed-signal, and others.

Applied Materials (AMAT)

Applied Materials, Inc. engages in the provision of manufacturing equipment, services, and software to the semiconductor, display, and related industries. The company operates through three segments: Semiconductor Systems, Applied Global Services, and Display and Adjacent Markets. The Semiconductor Systems segment develops, manufactures, and sells various manufacturing equipment that is used to fabricate semiconductor chips or integrated circuits.

Read Our Latest Research Report on AMAT

Johnson Controls International (JCI)

Johnson Controls International plc, together with its subsidiaries, engages in engineering, manufacturing, commissioning, and retrofitting building products and systems in the United States, Europe, the Asia Pacific, and internationally. It operates in four segments: Building Solutions North America, Building Solutions EMEA/LA, Building Solutions Asia Pacific, and Global Products.

Read Our Latest Research Report on JCI

Fabrinet (FN)

Fabrinet provides optical packaging and precision optical, electro-mechanical, and electronic manufacturing services in North America, the Asia-Pacific, and Europe. The company offers a range of advanced optical and electro-mechanical capabilities in the manufacturing process, including process design and engineering, supply chain management, manufacturing, printed circuit board assembly, advanced packaging, integration, final assembly, and testing.

Read Our Latest Research Report on FN

Phillips 66 (PSX)

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.

Read Our Latest Research Report on PSX

Stellantis (STLA)

Stellantis N.V. engages in the design, engineering, manufacturing, distribution, and sale of automobiles and light commercial vehicles, engines, transmission systems, metallurgical products, mobility services, and production systems worldwide. It provides luxury and premium vehicles; sport utility vehicles; American and European brand vehicles; and parts and services, as well as retail and dealer financing, leasing, and rental services.

Read Our Latest Research Report on STLA

ASE Technology (ASX)

ASE Technology Holding Co., Ltd., together with its subsidiaries, provides semiconductors packaging and testing, and electronic manufacturing services in the United States, Taiwan, Asia, Europe, and internationally. It develops, constructs, sells, leases, and manages real estate properties; produces substrates; offers information software, equipment leasing, investment advisory, and warehousing management services; commercial complex, after-sales, and support services; manages parking lot services; processes and sells computer and communication peripherals, electronic components, telecommunications equipment, and motherboards; and imports and exports goods and technology.

Read Our Latest Research Report on ASX

Read More
UWM Holdings Corporation (NYSE:UWMC  Get Free Report) CEO Ishbia Mat sold 596,356 shares of the stock in a transaction on Wednesday, November 26th. The stock was sold at an average price of $5.81, for a total transaction of $3,464,828.36. Following the sale, the chief executive officer owned 3,490,916 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $20,282,221.96. This trade represents a 14.59% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website.

Ishbia Mat also recently made the following trade(s):

Get UWM alerts:

On Friday, November 28th, Ishbia Mat sold 437,073 shares of UWM stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $5.85, for a total transaction of $2,556,877.05.

On Monday, November 24th, Ishbia Mat sold 596,356 shares of UWM stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $5.21, for a total value of $3,107,014.76.

On Friday, November 21st, Ishbia Mat sold 596,356 shares of UWM stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $5.09, for a total value of $3,035,452.04.

On Wednesday, November 19th, Ishbia Mat sold 596,356 shares of UWM stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $4.96, for a total value of $2,957,925.76.

On Monday, November 17th, Ishbia Mat sold 596,356 shares of UWM stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $4.94, for a total value of $2,945,998.64.

On Thursday, November 13th, Ishbia Mat sold 596,356 shares of UWM stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $5.27, for a total value of $3,142,796.12.

On Monday, November 10th, Ishbia Mat sold 596,356 shares of UWM stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $5.47, for a total value of $3,262,067.32.

On Friday, November 7th, Ishbia Mat sold 596,356 shares of UWM stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $5.18, for a total transaction of $3,089,124.08.

On Wednesday, November 5th, Ishbia Mat sold 596,356 shares of UWM stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $5.69, for a total transaction of $3,393,265.64.

On Monday, November 3rd, Ishbia Mat sold 596,356 shares of UWM stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $5.76, for a total transaction of $3,435,010.56.

UWM Stock Up 1.5%

NYSE:UWMC traded up $0.09 during trading hours on Friday, reaching $5.86. The company had a trading volume of 3,647,804 shares, compared to its average volume of 6,874,220. UWM Holdings Corporation has a twelve month low of $3.80 and a twelve month high of $7.14. 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 firm has a market cap of $9.37 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -117.10 and a beta of 1.79. The businesss 50-day simple moving average is $5.62 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $5.04.

UWM Dividend Announcement

UWM ( NYSE:UWMC Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, November 6th. The company reported $0.01 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.07 by ($0.06). The company had revenue of $151.14 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $651.51 million. UWM had a net margin of 0.48% and a negative return on equity of 5.56%. On average, equities analysts expect that UWM Holdings Corporation will post 0.2 earnings per share for the current 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 paid a $0.10 dividend. This represents a $0.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 6.8%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, December 18th.

Institutional Trading of UWM

Several institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the company. AGF Management Ltd. purchased a new stake in UWM in the 2nd quarter valued at about $3,072,000. Zurcher Kantonalbank Zurich Cantonalbank grew its holdings in shares of UWM by 42.3% in the first quarter. Zurcher Kantonalbank Zurich Cantonalbank now owns 25,845 shares of the companys stock valued at $141,000 after acquiring an additional 7,687 shares in the last quarter. Parallel Advisors LLC grew its holdings in shares of UWM by 94.6% in the second quarter. Parallel Advisors LLC now owns 29,533 shares of the companys stock valued at $122,000 after acquiring an additional 14,358 shares in the last quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd. increased its position in shares of UWM by 769.3% during the first quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd. now owns 13,413 shares of the companys stock valued at $73,000 after acquiring an additional 11,870 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Envestnet Asset Management Inc. lifted its holdings in UWM by 437.2% during the second quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 121,444 shares of the companys stock worth $503,000 after acquiring an additional 98,837 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 53.59% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of brokerages have recently weighed in on UWMC. Zacks Research raised UWM from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 7th. Barclays boosted their price target on shares of UWM from $6.00 to $7.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Monday, October 6th. Wall Street Zen lowered shares of UWM from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a research note on Saturday, November 15th. UBS Group lifted their price objective on shares of UWM from $5.50 to $6.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, November 12th. Finally, Weiss Ratings restated a sell (d+) rating on shares of UWM in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, six have assigned a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, UWM currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $6.54.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on UWM

About UWM

(Get 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.

Featured Articles

Receive News & Ratings for UWM Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for UWM and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Rocket Companies, Inc. (NYSE:RKT  Get Free Report) Director Matthew Rizik sold 2,500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Tuesday, November 25th. The stock was sold at an average price of $19.29, for a total value of $48,225.00. Following the transaction, the director directly owned 1,005,684 shares of the companys stock, valued at $19,399,644.36. The trade was a 0.25% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website.

Matthew Rizik also recently made the following trade(s):

Get Rocket Companies alerts:

On Monday, November 17th, Matthew Rizik sold 2,500 shares of Rocket Companies stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $16.70, for a total value of $41,750.00.

On Thursday, November 13th, Matthew Rizik sold 2,500 shares of Rocket Companies stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $17.47, for a total transaction of $43,675.00.

Rocket Companies Stock Up 1.2%

NYSE:RKT traded up $0.24 during mid-day trading on Friday, hitting $19.98. The stock had a trading volume of 7,977,201 shares, compared to its average volume of 20,395,633. Rocket Companies, Inc. has a twelve month low of $10.06 and a twelve month high of $22.56. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $17.62 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $16.31. The company has a current ratio of 19.68, a quick ratio of 19.68 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.16. The company has a market capitalization of $42.04 billion, a PE ratio of 249.72 and a beta of 2.21.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Rocket Companies ( NYSE:RKT Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 30th. The company reported $0.07 EPS for the quarter, meeting analysts consensus estimates of $0.07. Rocket Companies had a negative net margin of 1.77% and a positive return on equity of 2.83%. The company had revenue of $1.78 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.65 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $0.08 EPS. The companys quarterly revenue was up 148.1% compared to the same quarter last year. Rocket Companies has set its Q4 2025 guidance at EPS. On average, equities research analysts anticipate that Rocket Companies, Inc. will post 0.15 EPS for the current year.

Hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. ValueAct Holdings L.P. lifted its stake in Rocket Companies by 67.9% in the third quarter. ValueAct Holdings L.P. now owns 25,395,627 shares of the companys stock valued at $492,167,000 after buying an additional 10,270,018 shares during the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its position in Rocket Companies by 29.5% in the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 22,945,500 shares of the companys stock valued at $444,684,000 after purchasing an additional 5,226,931 shares during the last quarter. Boston Partners boosted its stake in Rocket Companies by 6.2% during the 2nd quarter. Boston Partners now owns 14,560,706 shares of the companys stock worth $206,610,000 after purchasing an additional 856,367 shares during the period. Durable Capital Partners LP acquired a new stake in Rocket Companies during the 3rd quarter worth $213,010,000. Finally, Nuveen LLC purchased a new position in Rocket Companies during the 1st quarter worth $96,470,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 4.59% of the companys stock.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of analysts have weighed in on RKT shares. Zacks Research upgraded Rocket Companies from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 14th. Barclays set a $19.00 price objective on Rocket Companies and gave the company a cautious rating in a report on Monday, October 6th. Weiss Ratings reissued a sell (d) rating on shares of Rocket Companies in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of Rocket Companies in a report on Monday, October 13th. Finally, Bank of America upgraded shares of Rocket Companies from a neutral rating to a buy rating and increased their price target for the company from $21.00 to $24.00 in a research note on Wednesday, September 10th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, nine have given a Hold rating and three have given a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Rocket Companies currently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $18.18.

Read Our Latest Analysis on RKT

About Rocket Companies

(Get Free Report)

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.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Rocket Companies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Rocket Companies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Coca-Cola HBC (LON:CCH  Get Free Report) had its price target cut by equities research analysts at Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft from GBX 4,485 to GBX 4,470 in a research note issued on Friday,London Stock Exchange reports. The brokerage currently has a buy rating on the stock. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschafts price target suggests a potential upside of 17.63% from the stocks current price.

A number of other equities research analysts also recently commented on the company. JPMorgan Chase & Co. restated an overweight rating on shares of Coca-Cola HBC in a research report on Thursday, November 6th. Jefferies Financial Group reissued a buy rating and issued a GBX 4,400 target price on shares of Coca-Cola HBC in a research report on Thursday, August 7th. Finally, Berenberg Bank reissued a buy rating and set a GBX 4,068 target price on shares of Coca-Cola HBC in a research note on Wednesday, August 6th. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Buy and a consensus price target of GBX 4,147.

Get Coca-Cola HBC alerts:

Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on CCH

Coca-Cola HBC Trading Up 0.4%

Insider Activity at Coca-Cola HBC

Coca-Cola HBC stock traded up GBX 15.89 during midday trading on Friday, hitting GBX 3,799.89. 406,237 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 2,176,219. The company has a current ratio of 1.14, a quick ratio of 0.80 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 137.31. The stock has a market capitalization of 13.81 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 15.14, a PEG ratio of 1.03 and a beta of 0.94. The stocks 50-day simple moving average is GBX 3,527.01 and its 200 day simple moving average is GBX 3,749.43. Coca-Cola HBC has a fifty-two week low of GBX 2,652 and a fifty-two week high of GBX 4,102.

In related news, insider Zoran Bogdanovic sold 15,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, November 21st. The stock was sold at an average price of GBX 3,616, for a total value of 542,400. Also, insider Pantelis Lekkas acquired 10,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Wednesday, October 22nd. The shares were bought at an average cost of GBX 3,450 per share, for a total transaction of 345,000. In the last 90 days, insiders have purchased 10,457 shares of company stock valued at $36,142,383. 99.20% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Coca-Cola HBC Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Coca-Cola HBC is a growth-focused consumer packaged goods business and strategic bottling partner of The Coca-Cola Company. We open up moments that refresh us all, by creating value for our stakeholders and supporting the socio-economic development of the communities in which we operate. With a vision to be the leading 24/7 beverage partner, we offer drinks for all occasions around the clock and work together with our customers to serve 750 million consumers across a broad geographic footprint of 29 countries.

Featured Stories

Receive News & Ratings for Coca-Cola HBC Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Coca-Cola HBC and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
Galp Energia SGPS (OTCMKTS:GLPEY  Get Free Report) and Able Energy (OTCMKTS:ABLE  Get Free Report) are both energy companies, but which is the superior business? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their institutional ownership, earnings, valuation, dividends, profitability, risk and analyst recommendations.

Volatility & Risk

Galp Energia SGPS has a beta of 0.26, indicating that its share price is 74% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Able Energy has a beta of 12.7, indicating that its share price is 1,170% more volatile than the S&P 500.

Get Galp Energia SGPS alerts:

Earnings & Valuation

This table compares Galp Energia SGPS and Able Energys gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Galp Energia SGPS $22.54 billion 0.62 $1.13 billion $0.72 13.89 Able Energy N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

Galp Energia SGPS has higher revenue and earnings than Able Energy.

Analyst Ratings

This is a breakdown of current ratings and price targets for Galp Energia SGPS and Able Energy, as reported by MarketBeat.com.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Galp Energia SGPS 0 1 1 3 3.40 Able Energy 0 0 0 0 0.00

Given Able Energys higher possible upside, analysts clearly believe Able Energy is more favorable than Galp Energia SGPS.

Profitability

This table compares Galp Energia SGPS and Able Energys net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Galp Energia SGPS 4.90% 18.31% 6.14% Able Energy N/A N/A N/A

Summary

Galp Energia SGPS beats Able Energy on 7 of the 9 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Galp Energia SGPS

(Get Free Report)

Galp Energia, SGPS, S.A. operates as an integrated energy operator in Portugal and internationally. The company operates through four segments: Upstream, Industrial & Midstream, Commercial, and Renewables and New Business. The Upstream segment engages in the exploration, development, and production of hydrocarbons primarily in Brazil, Mozambique, Namibia, and Angola. The Industrial & Midstream segment owns refineries in Portugal, as well as is involved in activities related to energy management of oil products, gas, and electricity. This segment provides storage and transportation infrastructure for oil and gas products, as well as engages in the sale of electricity to the grid in Portugal and Spain. The Commercial segment is involved in the areas of retail to final business-to-business and business to consumer customers of oil, gas, and electricity. The Renewables and New Business segment is involved in the development of solar and wind power generation projects in Portugal and Spain. In addition, it produces lithium-ion batteries, hydrogen, and biofuels; and operates service stations. Further, the company engages in the reinsurance business. The company was formerly known as Galp Petroleos e Gas de Portugal, SGPS, S.A. and changed its name to Galp Energia, SGPS, S.A. in September 2000. Galp Energia, SGPS, S.A. was incorporated in 1999 and is headquartered in Lisbon, Portugal.

About Able Energy

(Get Free Report)

Able Energy, Inc., through its subsidiaries, engages in the retail distribution of home heating oil, propane gas, kerosene, and diesel fuels to residential and commercial customers in the United States. It also offers heating, ventilation, and air conditioning installation and repair services. In addition, the company markets other petroleum products to commercial customers, including on-road and off-road diesel fuel, gasoline, and lubricants. Further, it involves in the retail sale of food, merchandise, and personal services, as well as provides onsite and mobile vehicle repair, and services and maintenance to professional and leisure driver through a network of 10 travel plazas located in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, and Virginia. Able Energy, Inc. was incorporated in 1997 and is based in Rockaway, New Jersey.

Receive News & Ratings for Galp Energia SGPS Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Galp Energia SGPS and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.
SYDNEY, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- A man has died after being shot multiple times on a street in western Sydney on Friday.

Police in the Australian state of New South Wales (NSW) said in a statement that officers were deployed to reports of a public place shooting on a residential street in Blacktown, 30 kilometers west of central Sydney, around 11:50 a.m. on Friday.

Officers arrived and found a man with gunshot wounds to his neck, chest and leg.

He was treated by ambulance paramedics, but died at the scene.

NSW Police said that officers initiated a pursuit when a vehicle seen leaving the scene failed to stop.

The vehicle crashed a short time later and two occupants who ran from the scene were arrested and taken to a nearby police station.

A crime scene has been established and police have commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. 
Her campaign for the governor's mansion in Kansas is a long shot and she doesn't represent that much of a threat to local progressives . . . So, prog bloggers played nice with her and offered a mostly fair and surprisingly respectful write-up of her latest online work . . . Here's a quote and link that's better than anything else Kansas progressives have covered this week . . .

The bombastic combination of commentary and cartoons leaves readers  and voters  with a clear impression. As OHara says: Boy, shes conservative.



OHaras writing puts her more clearly on the record . . . Her willingness to explain specific misgivings with how Kansas is being governed.



Sometimes, those positions situate her in an unorthodox political niche. She bemoans tax breaks for companies, which she calls corporate welfare. She blames both Democrats and Republicans for approving these tax incentives.

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .

Reflector: Its an honesty: Dozens of columns voice the politics of one candidate for Kansas governor




Tragedy grips the nation during this holiday and reignites politicized controversy over mass deportations and constantly shifting immigration rules.

Here are the basics . . .

One of the two members of the National Guard who were shot in Washington DC on Wednesday has died, US President Donald Trump said.



Sarah Beckstrom, 20, succumbed to her injuries, President Trump said on Thursday evening.



The second National Guard member, 24-year-old Andrew Wolfe, "is fighting for his life", he said.

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . .

National guard member Sarah Beckstrom has died after shooting in Washington DC, Trump announces One other member of the guards, Andrew Wolfe, 24, is still fighting for his life, according to the president

Trump claims National Guard shooting suspect 'went cuckoo,' calls reporter 'a stupid person' President Trump claimed that the suspect behind the shooting of two National Guard troops in Washington, DC "went cuckoo" and faulted poor vetting for letting him into the country during a fiery exchange with a reporter.

Trump says U.S. must 're-examine' everyone who came from Afghanistan under Biden after National Guard shooting Shortly after the president's remarks, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services said it was halting the processing of immigration requests for Afghan nationals.

National Guard shooting suspect worked with CIA in Afghanistan before coming to US The suspect had been recruited to Unit 03 of the Kandahar Strike Force, a former military commander told the BBC, coming to the US after the withdrawal.

WATCH: Trump says National Guard soldier has died after shooting, blames Biden administration Trump used the announcement to say the shooting was a "terrorist attack" as he criticized the Biden administration.

Developing . . .
Thank you for signing up!

Youll soon be getting your Toronto scoop in your inbox.

Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 27. Azerbaijan's Baku hosted the second panel session on "Cooperation Opportunities of OTS member states in the digital media environment" as part of the Media Forum of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), Trend reports.

The panel session was moderated by Elmira Musazadeh, Chief Editor of CBC TV Azerbaijan, Head of News, Special Projects, and SMM.

The panel speakers included MP Sevil Mikayilova, Member of the Supervisory Board of the Media Development Agency, Vice President of the International Parliamentary Union (IPU) from Azerbaijan; Makpal Ukenova, Director of the Balapan Channel of the Republic of Kazakhstan's National Television and Radio Corporation; Alptekin Cihangir Isbilir, Press Counselor at the Embassy of Turkiye in Azerbaijan; Tokhir Umarov, Head of the Content Production Department for Mass Media under the Administration of the President of Uzbekistan; and Mustafa Lakadamyal, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.

Trend News Agency and Turkiye's renowned Demiroren Agency (DHA) invite media from OTS and D8 countries to the artificial intelligence-based digital platform.

Speaking at the panel, Mikayilova noted that Trend and DHA agencies have presented a very interesting project together: a new platform based on modern information technologies and containing the cooperation necessary for today.

We have already involved other states, even nonTurkic-speaking countries, in this project. Chinas influential Xinhua Agency has also agreed to join the project. At the same time, we have invited all our colleagues from the Turkic states to this platform. A multimedia stock has been created here, the MP said.

Mikayilova emphasized that the existence of such a platform is of great importance, especially in a period when disinformation is spreading widely in the internet space.

In response to false information created through artificial intelligence, it is important to have a large amount of correct and accurate content. It is precisely for this purpose that we created this stock. Also, by successfully applying translation capabilities into various languages through artificial intelligence for the first time, we have achieved very positive results, the MP stressed.

Mikayilova added that by attracting colleagues from other countries to the platform, a very positive media environment can be formed.

Accurate news that properly guides the public will be presented here. Regardless of the essence of the news, the information will be correct and reliable. Establishing strategic communication between states is very important today. We must admit that social media and traditional media are extremely powerful tools in terms of influencing public consciousness, but the existence of such platforms and the creation of an environment where accurate information sources are gathered is essential.

For diplomats, decision-makers, and media-literate individuals, this platform is very valuable. Over time, with the development of technologies, a higher-level media system will be formed in this environment. However, at the current stage, we cannot stop: we must both strengthen the legislative framework and work toward creating new media law and establishing cooperation platforms, Mikayilova said.

Recalling that a few days ago the D8 Countries Media Forum was held in Baku, the MP noted that such forums are greatly needed to ideologically strengthen the political line pursued by the state.

By attracting other countries to the platform, we can expand the coverage area of accurate information in our region. Thus, we can create a barrier in the fight against fake news and disinformation. This will be very beneficial for all our colleagues, she added.

Isbilir noted that cooperation between Turkish and Azerbaijani news agencies is growing stronger by the day, and Trend News Agency plays a particularly important role in this process.

He reminded that Trend News Agency maintains robust cooperation mechanisms and joint production with both the Albayrak Media Group and Demiroren News Agency.

"We closely follow Trends news, the Azernews newspaper, and the TurkicWorld platform. As the Turkish Embassy in Azerbaijan, we are doing our utmost to help advance this cooperation to an even higher level," he explained.

The press counsellor added that Trends TurkicWorld project serves as an excellent model for all media outlets across the Organization of Turkic States.

"This model should be applied and taken as an example both in traditional and digital media. The cooperation framework developed by Trend can serve as a foundation for various joint projects among the news agencies of all Turkic countries," he said.

Isbilir stressed that cooperation between Trend and Albayrak, Demiroren and other agencies should not remain limited to Azerbaijan and Turkiye.

"It should also be extended to other Turkic states. The same level of ties must be established with the agencies of other Turkic countries. I believe this model will be widely adopted. It should also serve as an example for building an OTS-wide media mechanism to combat disinformation," the diplomat also said.

He concluded by congratulating Trend News Agency for its service to the Turkic world and its contribution to strengthening Azerbaijan-Turkiye media cooperation.

The speakers discussed the development of cooperative frameworks within the digital media landscape, focusing on collaborative content production and enhancing information exchange.

The panel underscored the necessity of establishing flexible and trust-based platforms for cooperation among OTS member countries in response to the rapid transformations in the digital information environment.

The event highlighted that the implementation of joint digital initiatives, efficient management of information flow, and strengthening of media organization networks could significantly enhance communication capabilities within the region, fostering the creation of a cohesive and dynamic media space.

In addition, Eldar Rasulov, Media Relations Manager for the Azerbaijani operating company WUF13, gave a presentation on Opportunities for the media at the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) and drew attention to the fact that the World Urban Forum, which will be held in Baku in 2026, is one of the world's largest platforms for discussing the concepts of sustainable urban development, modern urbanism, and smart cities.

According to him, WUF13 will provide extensive opportunities for the media, with a media center for journalists equipped with high-speed internet, fully equipped workstations, and rooms for press conferences and interviews.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Title changed

Details added: first version posted on 13:01

BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. The families who arrived in Girmizi Bazar settlement in Azerbaijan's Khojavend district have received keys to their houses, Trend reports.

After welcoming the families who moved to the settlement, employees of the Azerbaijan National Agency for Mine Action (ANAMA) provided details about the dangers posed by mines and unexploded ordnance. The families were advised to stay away from unfamiliar objects and items and to report such situations to the relevant agencies if they encounter them.

The key handover ceremony was attended by officials from the Special Representative Office of the President of Azerbaijan in Aghdam, Fuzuli and Khojavend districts, along with representatives of the State Committee for Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons and other officials. The families happily received the keys and settled into their homes.

To note, at this stage, a cohort of 16 familial units, encompassing a total of 55 individuals, is in the process of reintegrating into the ancestral settlement.

The 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 the district. All necessary conditions have been created for the families to settle in their homes.

14:20

xxx

The new group of former internally displaced persons (IDPs) sent to Girmizi Bazar settlement in Azerbaijan's Khojavend district has arrived in the native land, Trend's Karabakh bureau reports.

The group consists of 16 families, encompassing a total of 55 individuals.

13:01

xxx

The next group of former internally displaced persons (IDPs) has been sent to the Girmizi Bazar settlement in Azerbaijan's Khojavend district, Trend's Karabakh bureau reports.

At this stage, a cohort of 16 familial units, encompassing a total of 55 individuals, is in the process of reintegrating into the ancestral 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 the district.

Thus, the return of a total of 254 people from 67 families, including those sent at this stage, to Girmizi Bazar settlement has been provided so far.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
ISTANBUL, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Eight fugitives wanted in Turkiye on various criminal charges, including three listed on Interpol's Red Notices, have been apprehended in Georgia and returned to Turkiye, the Turkish Interior Ministry announced on Friday.

In a statement shared via social media, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya revealed that the arrests were the result of coordinated operations carried out by Georgian authorities in close collaboration with Turkish security agencies.

The three individuals sought under Red Notices face serious charges, including robbery, theft, escape from custody, deprivation of liberty through force, threat or deceit, and premeditated murder.

The remaining five suspects, all on Turkiye's national wanted list, are linked to a range of offenses, including forgery of official documents, blackmail, theft, breaking and entering, intentional injury, breach of trust, cyber-enabled theft, and escape from custody.

Yerlikaya reaffirmed Turkiye's commitment to pursuing fugitives abroad, stating, "Regardless of the type of notice under which they are wanted, we will continue to ensure the extradition of members of organized crime groups and narcotics traffickers to our country." 
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. On November 28, 2025, the Audiovisual Council of the Republic of Azerbaijan organized another educational training seminar for students of the Faculty of Journalism at Baku State University (BSU), Trend reports via the Audiovisual Council.

The event was held in accordance with the relevant Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Audiovisual Council of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Media Development Agency, and Baku State University.

Speaking at the opening of the seminar, Samir Khalidoglu, Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Journalism at BSU, emphasized the high effectiveness and positive results of such training sessions, which are regularly organized by the Audiovisual Council for students.

Afterwards, Taleh Guliyev, Head of Communications at the Audiovisual Council, gave students detailed information about the organization's activities, particularly the measures taken to protect children's rights, including educating audiovisual media entities in this area.

In the next part of the event, Aykhan Sadigli, senior advisor to the Council's Legal Support and International Cooperation Department, gave a detailed presentation on Children's Rights in Audiovisual Media. He provided students with detailed information on current legislative norms, regulatory mechanisms, legal aspects, as well as the powers and responsibilities of the institution as provided for by law.

The interactive seminar ended with answers to numerous questions of interest to students, explanations of real-life examples, and a substantive discussion.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. Professions such as accounting and jurisprudence will no longer exist in the near future, Rene Leon Solano, lead economist at the World Banks Ankara office, said in his speech on The map of new generation professions at the panel titled What does the future of professions require from us? organized within the Future Professions Summit, held for the first time in Baku by the State Employment Agency, Trend reports.

He observed that, in the future, the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on small and medium-sized businesses is likely to be limited.

According to him, only 14 percent of small and medium-sized enterprises globally currently utilize AI technology.

"Current statistics suggest that AI's influence on small and medium-sized businesses will remain relatively minor. The data also indicates that AI adoption is notably low among educators. Primarily, many tasks will be automated by AI, and the integration of this technology into workplaces could lead to reductions in production costs, thereby influencing pricing structures. This presents a positive aspect of the technological shift.

Furthermore, in tasks driven by AI applications, we can leverage AI algorithms to enhance efficiency. In certain sectors, AI may serve a primarily supportive role. For instance, in education, AI could assist but not replace teachers. Some professions, however, are likely to become obsolete in the coming years. Professions such as accounting and jurisprudence, for example, are expected to lose their relevance as AI continues to evolve," he added.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 27. Trend News Agency and Turkiye's well-known Demiroren Agency (DHA) are inviting the media of the OTS and D-8 countries to join their joint AI-based digital platform, said MP Sevil Mikayilova, Member of the Supervisory Board of the Media Development Agency, Vice-President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) from Azerbaijan, during her speech at the panel session titled "Opportunities for cooperation among OTS member states in the digital media environment", held as part of the Organization of Turkic States Media Forum in Baku, Trend reports.

"Trend and DHA have jointly introduced a very interesting project: a new platform based on modern information technologies and built around cooperation that is essential today. We have already brought in other countries, including those that are not Turkic-speaking.

Chinas prominent Xinhua Agency has also agreed to join the project. At the same time, we have invited all our colleagues from the Turkic states. A multimedia stock has been created here," the MP said.

MP Mikayilova stressed that the existence of such a platform is particularly important at a time when disinformation is spreading widely across the internet.

"In response to AI-generated fake content, it is crucial to have a large volume of accurate and reliable material. That is precisely why we created this stock. We have also achieved very positive results by successfully applying, for the first time, AI-based translation capabilities into different languages," she emphasized.

The MP added that involving colleagues from other countries can help shape a highly positive media environment:

"Here, accurate news that guides the public correctly will be provided. Regardless of the subject, information will be correct and trustworthy. Building strategic communication between states is extremely important today. We must acknowledge that both social media and traditional media are very powerful in shaping public perception. But the existence of such platforms and the creation of a space where verified information sources are gathered is essential. For diplomats, decision-makers and individuals with media literacy, this platform is extremely valuable. As technology develops, a more advanced media system will form within this environment. But at this stage, we cannot pause: we must strengthen the legislative framework and work on establishing new media law and cooperation platforms," she said.

The MP recalled that just a few days ago, Baku hosted the Media Forum of the D-8 countries, noting that such forums are crucial for strengthening the ideological foundations of the states political course.

"By involving other countries in the platform, we can broaden the coverage of accurate information across our region. In this way, we can build a barrier against fake news and disinformation. This will be highly beneficial for all our colleagues," Sevil Mikayilova concluded.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. The next group of former internally displaced persons is returning to the village of Mamedbeyli in the Zangilan region, Trend reports.

At this stage, 33 families, 177 people, have been resettled to the village of Mamedbeyli in the Zangilan region.

The former IDPs returning to the native village thanked President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and First Vice President Mehriban Aliyeva for their comprehensive care and expressed gratitude to the valiant Azerbaijani Army, which liberated the lands from occupation.

Currently, more than 50,000 people live in Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur. Among them are former internally displaced persons who have returned to these areas, as well as employees involved in the implementation of restoration and construction projects, employees of local departments of various government agencies, and specialists employed in healthcare, education, culture, tourism, industry, and energy institutions that have resumed their activities.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. A delegation led by Chairman of the Azerbaijani Central Election Commission (CEC) Mazahir Panahov has visited Kyrgyzstan, a source in the CEC told Trend.

The main purpose of the visit at the invitation of Chairman of the Kyrgyz Central Election Commission Tynchtyk Shaynazarov is to observe the early parliamentary election to be held in Kyrgyzstan on November 30 as international observers.

It's planned that the CEC representatives will get acquainted with the general preparation processes for the early parliamentary elections until the voting day, as well as observe the voting procedures at polling stations in the capital on the election day.

The CEC delegation will also participate in the second meeting of the Consultative Platform of the Supreme Election Bodies of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) member countries, to be held in Bishkek on November 28. The event will discuss the development of institutional cooperation in the field of election management and the possibilities of further expanding relations.

During the visit, the CEC chairman will meet with his Kyrgyz counterpart, as well as with the heads of the election management bodies of the member states of the OTS and international organizations participating in the observation of the elections, as well as other officials, and discuss the prospects for further deepening inter-agency relations, new opportunities for cooperation in various areas related to the elections, and issues of mutual interest.

To note, the CEC representatives are also participating in the early parliamentary election in Kyrgyzstan as part of the international observation missions of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Turkic States, the OTS, the OSCE/ODIHR, and the Commonwealth of Independent States.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Photo: Press Service of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent a congratulatory letter to the President of Timor-Leste Jose Ramos-Horta, Trend reports.

"Dear Mr. President,

On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the proclamation of independence of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, I sincerely congratulate you and, through you, the entire friendly people of your country, and extend my sincerest wishes.

We are delighted by the new momentum in relations between Azerbaijan and Timor-Leste. We attach great importance to the development of our interstate relations, which are built on solid foundations and mutual respect, and to the further enrichment of our cooperation with new substance.

I am confident that we will continue our joint efforts to strengthen the friendly relations between Azerbaijan and Timor-Leste and to expand our cooperation both bilaterally and multilaterally.

On this remarkable day, I wish you robust health, happiness and every success in your endeavours, as well as lasting peace and prosperity to the friendly people of Timor-Leste," the letter reads.
Photo: Press service of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Albania Bajram Begaj, Trend reports.

"Dear Mr. President,

On my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan, I sincerely congratulate you and, through you, your entire people on the occasion of the national holiday of the Republic of Albania.

We attach great importance to relations between Azerbaijan and Albania. We are pleased with the steady development of our interstate ties, built on solid foundations, and with the expansion of our cooperation.

The intensity of our meetings and visits attests to the level of AzerbaijanAlbania friendship and the dynamic nature of our mutual relations. I fondly recall my visit to Tirana this May to participate in the 6th Summit of the European Political Community.

I am confident that we will continue our joint efforts to strengthen friendly relations between Azerbaijan and Albania and to further deepen mutually beneficial cooperation across a number of areas, in line with the will of our peoples.

On this joyous day, I wish you good health, happiness, and success in your endeavors, as well as lasting peace and prosperity to the friendly people of Albania," the letter reads.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. The first meeting of the Cooperation Committee on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Azerbaijan and the UAE has been held in Abu Dhabi, Trend reports via the Azerbaijani MFA.

The establishment of the committee was rooted in the Joint Declaration on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Azerbaijan and the UAE, which was signed during the official visit of the UAE President to Azerbaijan on September 16 of this year. The meeting was presided over by Azerbaijans Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yalchin Rafiyev, with UAE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Saeed Al Hajeri, serving as co-chair.

In accordance with the agreed-upon framework, the initial phase of the meeting included sessions of various subcommittees focusing on distinct sectors: political and diplomatic affairs, economic cooperation, humanitarian initiatives, defense and law enforcement, as well as energy and sustainability. During these discussions, the committee addressed existing areas of collaboration, explored proposals for advancing bilateral relations, and examined potential joint projects.

As part of the committee's proceedings, a private bilateral meeting was held between Rafiyev and Al Hajeri. This was followed by an extensive plenary session, led by the co-chairs, and attended by representatives from the pertinent governmental agencies, as well as the ambassadors of both countries. During the session, the co-chairs of the subcommittees presented comprehensive reports on the proposals and initiatives currently under review.

The co-chairs emphasized their expectations for the effective implementation of the proposed initiatives, including the development and coordination of roadmaps and work plans aimed at achieving tangible outcomes. Furthermore, the modalities and timeline for future meetings, as well as the overall operational framework of the committee, were established.

Throughout the discussions, both sides expressed considerable satisfaction with the dynamic and ongoing progress in Azerbaijan-UAE relations, particularly in recent times.

The key role of the reciprocal visits of the heads of state of both countries, as well as the agreements reached and documents signed within the framework of these visits, in elevating the countries' relations to the level of a comprehensive strategic partnership was emphasized.

In addition to the Foreign Ministry, representatives of the Ministries of Economy, Energy, Justice, Defense, Internal Affairs, Digital Development and Transport, Science and Education, Culture, and Agriculture, as well as the State Tourism Agency, SOCAR, and the Investment Holding, participated in the meeting on behalf of Azerbaijan.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. Azerbaijans Prime Minister Ali Asadov held a meeting with Yarub Qudah, Minister of Industry, Trade, and Supply of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and co-chair of the Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, and Technical Cooperation between the two countries, on November 28, Trend reports via the Cabinet of Ministers.

The leaders highlighted that Azerbaijan-Jordan relations continue to develop on the principles of friendship and cooperation. It was noted that the close personal ties between President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan and King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein of Jordan serve as a pivotal element in this progress.

During the meeting, prospects for further expansion of mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields, including trade and economic relations, investment, humanitarian initiatives, and other areas, were discussed.

Azerbaijans Minister of Finance, Sahil Babayev, also attended the meeting.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent a letter of condolence to Xi Jinping, President of the People's Republic of China, Trend reports.

"Dear Mr. President,

We were deeply saddened by the news of the loss of many lives in the devastating fire that broke out in an apartment complex in Hong Kong.

In connection with this tragedy, on my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan, I extend my profound condolences to you, to the families and loved ones of those who perished, and to the friendly people of China, and wish a speedy recovery to the injured," the letter reads.
ISLAMABAD, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani security forces killed 22 terrorists during an intelligence-based operation in the country's northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, the military said Thursday.

The operation was launched in Dera Ismail Khan district of the province on Wednesday, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of the Pakistani military, said in a statement.

The forces engaged the militants' hideout, and the terrorists were eliminated following an intense exchange of fire, the statement said.

A search operation was underway, the ISPR said, adding that counterterrorism efforts would continue to ensure lasting peace. 
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. Azerbaijan has approved legislative amendments concerning the protection of childrens rights, Trend reports.

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, has signed a decree to enact the changes.

Under the decree, the definition of guardianship and custodial authority has been revised. Responsibilities regarding children who have lost their parents or have been deprived of parental care, whether placed with foster families or under provisions of the Family Code, will now fall under the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of Population (MLSPP). In other cases, commissions on the protection of childrens rights will act as the authorized body. This clarification has been applied to relevant articles of several laws.

The decree also amends presidential orders related to the application of the Mediation law and the law on combating Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)-related diseases. Certain provisions have been updated to align with new legal regulations, while others have been repealed.

Additionally, relevant parts of previous decrees concerning the application of the Family Code and the Civil Code have been updated, replacing earlier references with the concept of commissions on the protection of childrens rights.

The decree instructs the Cabinet of Ministers to ensure proper implementation of legal provisions arising from the laws. The State Herald has approved the law to ensure the execution of the decree.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. Assistant to the President of Azerbaijan and Head of the Foreign Policy Affairs Department of the Presidential Administration of Azerbaijan Hikmet Hajiyev has visited NATO Headquarters in Brussels, Azerbaijans Mission to NATO wrote on its X page, Trend reports.

During his visit to Brussels, Hajiyev met at NATO Headquarters with the ambassadors of the North Atlantic Council, as well as the Assistant Secretary General for Political Affairs and Security Policy Boris Ruge.

The meeting recalled the visit of the ambassadors of NATOs North Atlantic Council to Azerbaijan and their meeting with President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev.

The sides also held extensive discussions on a wide range of topics, including the successful AzerbaijanNATO partnership and prospects for cooperation, Azerbaijans contributions to the alliance, including to Europes energy security, as well as issues related to regional security and the Azerbaijan-Armenia peace agenda.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. Turkic states are moving towards a unified strategy in the information space, the Azerbaijani political analyst Azer Garayev told Trend.

He said that the 7th meeting of ministers and high officials in charge of media and information of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) held in Baku can be seen as a key turning point that will shape the future of information policy in the Turkic world.

According to him, the meeting is a sign of the dawn of a new chapter in media cooperation among Turkic states, given the level of participants, the strategic nature of the topics discussed, and the long-term impact potential of the decisions made.

"The choice to hold the meeting in Baku is not accidental. In recent years, Azerbaijan has played a leading role in the region in terms of information security, media reforms, and the creation of trans-regional communication platforms. There are three main reasons for this. First, Azerbaijan has real experience in information warfareespecially after the 44-day war, combating disinformation has become a central element of the national security policy.

Second, the organization of international forums such as the Shusha Global Media Forum has turned Azerbaijan into the center of regional media dialogue. And the third, Baku, plays a bridge role in the integration of Turkic states, both politically and culturally. In this context, the meetings contribution to shaping the regional information agenda has been strengthened," he also said.

Garayev brought up that the priorities for Azerbaijan during the event were tackling disinformation and boosting media literacy.

"Preventing disinformation and counterfeit narratives is regarded as an integral component of Azerbaijans overarching national security framework. This approach is not only defensive but also involves cooperation with international partners, developing fact-checking mechanisms, and expanding media literacy programs. Azerbaijan has implemented reforms such as updating media legislation, registering media entities on a unified platform, and ensuring the transparency of journalistic activities. This presentation aims to showcase these reforms within a regional context," he explained.

The analyst emphasized that the five-year strategy from 2027 through 2031 is the first long-term strategic framework in the media field for OTS and demonstrates the strengthening of the organizations institutional approach to information policy.

"The meeting in Baku includes institutionalization in the field of information and media within the Turkic world, deepening coordination, developing the media economy, and ensuring regional information security. This meeting can be seen not only as an exchange of media practices but also as a significant step towards the establishment of a unified ecosystem in the information space of the Turkic states," he added.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. On 28 November 2025, in the city of Gabala, Republic of Azerbaijan, under the chairmanship of Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan Shahin Mustafayev and Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia Mher Grigoryan, the 12th meeting of the State Commission on the Delimitation of the State Border between Azerbaijan and Armenia and the Commission on Delimitation of the State Border and Border Security between Armenia and Azerbaijan was held, Trend reports.

It was noted with satisfaction that the 12th meeting of the commissions is being held on the territory of one of the parties, in the Azerbaijani city of Gabala.

During the meeting, the parties noted the agreement reached as a result of the 11th meeting on January 16, 2025, to initiate comprehensive delimitation work from the northern sectionstarting from the area of the tri-junction point of the borders of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Republic of Armenia, and Georgiaand proceed southward to the border of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Republic of Armenia with the Islamic Republic of Iran.

The parties conducted a detailed exchange of views on organizational and technical issues related to the delimitation activities.

Drafts of the relevant instructions on the procedures for carrying out the delimitation work were also discussed.

The Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Shahin Mustafayev, and the Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia, Mher Grigoryan, held a separate exchange of views on matters of mutual interest.

The parties agreed to determine the date of the next meeting, in working order, in one of the cities of the Republic of Armenia.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. The next meeting of the state commissions on the delimitation of the border between Azerbaijan and Armenia will be held in Armenia, the statement of the Secretariat of the State Commission on the Delimitation of the State Border between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Armenia on November 28, 2025, says, Trend reports.

On 28 November 2025, in the city of Gabala, Republic of Azerbaijan, under the chairmanship of Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan Shahin Mustafayev and Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia Mher Grigoryan, the 12th meeting of the State Commission on the Delimitation of the State Border between Azerbaijan and Armenia and the Commission on Delimitation of the State Border and Border Security between Armenia and Azerbaijan was held.

It was noted with satisfaction that the 12th meeting of the commissions is being held on the territory of one of the parties, in the Azerbaijani city of Gabala.

The parties agreed to determine the date of the next meeting, in working order, in one of the cities of the Republic of Armenia.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. Preventing disinformation and the spread of fake news is a priority for Azerbaijan, Executive Director of the Azerbaijan Media Development Agency Ahmad Ismayilov said at the 7th Meeting of Ministers and High Officials in Charge of Media and Information of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), Trend reports.

He noted that the government of Azerbaijan pays special attention to the development of the media, actively develops dialogue in this sphere, and advocates for strengthening international cooperation.

According to him, the Shusha Global Media Forum has become an important platform for discussing pressing issues in media development.

The Third Shusha Global Forum, held in July 2025, attracted a wide range of participantsrepresentatives of leading mass media, experts, and analysts from various countries around the world, including Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and other states. The event discussed the challenges of the digital age, ways to improve the reliability of information, and new opportunities for international media interaction, he said.

Ismayilov highlighted that Azerbaijan is stepping up its efforts to tackle disinformation and fake news, seeing this area as one of the crucial parts of safeguarding information security.

Azerbaijan remains committed to professionalism, shared values, and the integrity of cooperation. The platform for interaction among Turkic states serves as the basis for advancing our interests and strengthening trust, he emphasized.

The executive director added that Azerbaijan is actively developing media contacts with Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan. In particular, in 2025, media tours were organized to historical cities of Uzbekistan, and meetings were held on the sidelines of the 2nd Central Asian Media Forum in Astana with the participation of the Azerbaijani delegation.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. The Organization of Turkic States (OTS) member countries should increase the production of joint content, Vice Minister of Culture and Information of Kazakhstan Kanat Iskakov said at the 7th Meeting of Ministers and High Officials in Charge of Media and Information of OTS, Trend reports.

We need to increase the production of joint contentdramatic series, documentary projects, and programs about tourism, culture, and the investment opportunities of our countries. We have significant potential in this direction, but we have not yet given this work the proper momentum, he noted.

Iskakov particularly pointed out the need to open up access to the television production of the OTS member countries by setting up the mutual broadcasting of national TV channels to reach out to the widest possible audience. According to him, without content exchange and the presence of each others channels on air, cooperation cannot be truly effective.

He added that it's important to implement joint projects aimed at creating high-quality childrens content in Turkic languages, which will contribute to the cultural development of the new generation.

Without animation, without engaging children, our nations will not be able to get to know each other better. Creating childrens content must become one of the priorities of our work, he stressed.

The vice minister also noted the importance of coordinated approaches to journalistic standards in the context of the digital environment and the development of artificial intelligence, which will help strengthen audience trust.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. The next meeting of ministers and high officials in charge of media and information of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) will be held in Astana, Kazakhstan, Deputy Secretary General of OTS Omer Kocaman said at the 7th Meeting of Ministers and High Officials in Charge of Media and Information of OTS, Trend reports.

We'll announce further details on the date and time through the diplomatic channel, Kocaman explained.

In a statement to the media, Kazakhstans Vice Minister of Culture and Information, Kanat Iskakov, noted that the upcoming summit is set to tackle not just the broad strokes of cooperation but also to dive into the nitty-gritty of specific initiatives in the media realm.

We are inviting the heads of media entities from Turkic-speaking countries not just to exchange opinions on potential projects, but to actually conclude agreements. At the state level, we have established effective cooperation, and now it's important to develop the same close work among the heads of media, television channels, and news agencies.

This will allow us to exchange experience and joint content more actively and to form a common information agenda aimed at countering fake news and promoting reliable information. These issues will be key on our agenda, he underlined.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. We'll fulfill our responsibilities towards transforming the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) into a global actor, Deputy Secretary General of OTS Omer Kocaman told media on the sidelines of the 7th Meeting of Ministers and High Officials in Charge of Media and Information of OTS in Baku, Trend reports.

"We have just concluded the meeting of high-level officials in the field of information held by OTS in Baku, and we all unanimously signed the decision on which areas and steps OTS will take in 2026," Kocaman explained.

He noted that at the subsequent phase, within the parameters of this hosting executed in Baku, the efficacious operationalization of the resolutions proposed by Azerbaijan persists.

Primarily with Azerbaijan as the host, almost all member countries of OTS have similar approaches in the field of information and communication. Ministers and high-level representatives of all member states drew attention to almost the same points. At the forefront of these topics are media literacy, combating disinformation, and the proper dissemination of information.

As OTS and the Communication Directorate of the Presidential Administration of Turkiye, we stated that we'll fulfill our responsibilities in the field of communication to ensure that information is properly conveyed to the broad public, transforming OTS from an effective regional actor into a global actor.

In this respect, we will also furnish all contributions as the Communication Directorate of the Presidential Administration of Turkiye, he added.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. The next relocation phase to Khidirli village in 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.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
SEOUL, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- South Korean banks' loan delinquency ratio fell in three months due to more bad loan settlements than new delinquent loans, financial watchdog data showed Friday.

The ratio of bank loans, at least one month overdue, to the total slipped 0.10 percentage points from a month earlier to 0.51 percent at the end of September, after rising for the past two months, according to the Financial Supervisory Service (FSS).

New delinquent loans reached 2.5 trillion won (1.71 billion U.S. dollars) in the cited month, lower than the settlement of non-performing loans worth 4.8 trillion won.

The delinquency ratio has roughly been on the rise after hitting a bottom of 0.20 percent in June 2022 on the back of lingering uncertainties over massive household debt.

Excluding the settled bad loans, the delinquency ratio for fresh bank loans was 0.10 percent in September, down from 0.12 percent in the previous month.

The delinquency ratio for bank corporate loans declined 0.12 percentage points from a month earlier to 0.61 percent at the end of September, while the ratio for household loans dipped 0.06 percentage points to 0.39 percent. 
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. The next meeting of ministers and high officials in charge of media and information of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) will be held in Astana, Kazakhstan, Deputy Secretary General of OTS Omer Kocaman said at the 7th Meeting of Ministers and High Officials in Charge of Media and Information of OTS, Trend reports.

We'll announce further details on the date and time through the diplomatic channel, Kocaman explained.

In a statement to the media, Kazakhstans Vice Minister of Culture and Information, Kanat Iskakov, noted that the upcoming summit plans to discuss not only general issues of cooperation but also specific initiatives in the media sphere.

We are inviting the heads of media entities from Turkic-speaking countries not just to exchange opinions on potential projects, but to actually conclude agreements. At the state level, we have established effective cooperation, and now it's important to develop the same close work among the heads of media, television channels, and news agencies.

This will allow us to exchange experience and joint content more actively and to form a common information agenda aimed at countering fake news and promoting reliable information. These issues will be key on our agenda, he underlined.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. Young talents are the driving force of the future media market, Director of the Center for the Production of Content for Mass Media under the Presidential Administration of Uzbekistan Kobuljon Akhmedov said at the 7th Meeting of Ministers and High Officials in Charge of Media and Information of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), Trend reports.

He noted that Uzbekistan is in the thick of it with a wave of sweeping reforms, where the spotlight is shining brightly on the growth of the media landscape and the nurturing of young talent.

"We are creating an open and modern information environment that reflects the dynamics of transformations in the country," Akhmedov explained.

He underlined that the key direction of the work is the support of young specialists.

According to him, a complex of programs aimed at developing youth media potential is implemented in Uzbekistan: educational courses on mobile journalism and work in social networks, practical trainings for bloggers and creators, and others.

Akhmedov also emphasized that the countries of the Turkic world are united by a rich cultural heritage and common aspirations, which creates a significant potential for expanding cooperation.

"Uzbekistan is ready to actively participate in the implementation of all initiatives provided by the working program of OTS, including the exchange of talents and joint production of content," the director of the center added.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. The families who arrived in Girmizi Bazar settlement in Azerbaijan's Khojavend district have received keys to their houses, Trend's Karabakh bureau reports.

After welcoming the families who moved to the settlement, employees of the Azerbaijan National Agency for Mine Action (ANAMA) provided details about the dangers posed by mines and unexploded ordnance. The families were advised to stay away from unfamiliar objects and items and to report such situations to the relevant agencies if they encounter them.

The key handover ceremony was attended by officials from the Special Representative Office of the President of Azerbaijan in Aghdam, Fuzuli and Khojavend districts, along with representatives of the State Committee for Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons and other officials. The families happily received the keys and settled into their homes.

To note, at this stage, a cohort of 16 familial units, encompassing a total of 55 individuals, is in the process of reintegrating into the ancestral settlement.

The 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 the district. All necessary conditions have been created for the families to settle in their homes.

14:20

xxx

The new group of former internally displaced persons (IDPs) sent to Girmizi Bazar settlement in Azerbaijan's Khojavend district has arrived in their native land, Trend's Karabakh bureau reports.

The group consists of 16 families, encompassing a total of 55 individuals.

13:01

The next group of former internally displaced persons (IDPs) has been sent to the Girmizi Bazar settlement in Azerbaijan's Khojavend district, Trend's Karabakh bureau reports.

At this stage, a cohort of 16 familial units, encompassing a total of 55 individuals, is in the process of reintegrating into the ancestral 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 the district.

Thus, the return of a total of 254 people from 67 families, including those sent at this stage, have been returned to Girmizi Bazar settlement has been provided so far.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
ZANGILAN, Azerbaijan, November 28. Another group of former IDP (internal displaced persons) families who arrived in Mammadbayli village of the Zangilan district were presented with the keys to their houses today, Trend's regional correspondent reports.

Upon arrival, the families were warmly welcomed and subsequently briefed by representatives of the Azerbaijan National Agency for Mine Action (ANAMA) on the risks associated with landmines and unexploded ordnance.

They were cautioned to avoid unfamiliar objects and to promptly notify the appropriate authorities if they encountered anything potentially hazardous.

The key presentation ceremony was attended by officials from the Special Presidential Envoys Office for the districts of Jabrayil, Gubadli, and Zangilan, along with representatives from the State Committee for Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons, as well as other relevant governmental agencies.

The families received their keys with great enthusiasm and began to settle into their new homes.

At this stage, a total of 33 families, comprising 177 people, were resettled in Mammadbayli. These families had previously been living temporarily in dormitories, sanatoriums, camps, unfinished buildings, and administrative facilities across various regions of the country.

14:07

The next relocation phase has been completed in the village of Mammadbeyli in the Zangilan district, as the families who departed earlier in the day reached their native lands, Trend's regional correspondent reports.

Mammadbayli village welcomed 177 people, including 33 families, who returned to their homeland with deep emotion and tears of joy. The new residents expressed gratitude to President Ilham Aliyev and First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva for the comprehensive state support provided to them. They also thanked the Azerbaijani Army and its heroic soldiers and officers for liberating the lands, wishing mercy to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives and patience to their families.

The total area of the village is 51.6 hectares. A total of 188 individual houses have been constructed, including 39 two-room, 55 three-room, 55 four-room, and 39 five-room homes. Each home has a fenced yard, and all houses are equipped with solar panels and provided with water, electricity, gas, and high-speed internet. The village roads have been fully asphalted, and 2 multifunctional non-residential buildings have also been built.

All necessary conditions have been created to ensure comfortable settlement for the returning families.

13:38

Following the directives of President Ilham Aliyev, the Great Return program to the territories liberated from occupation continues, Trend's regional correspondent reports.

The families relocated to the Zangilan district's Mammadbayli village were previously temporarily settled across various parts of the country, primarily in hostels, sanatoriums, and administrative buildings.

A total of 33 families, comprising 177 people, have now been resettled in Mammadbayli.

The returning residents expressed heartfelt gratitude to President Ilham Aliyev and First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva for the comprehensive state support provided to them. They also expressed their gratitude to the valiant Azerbaijani Army, along with its heroic soldiers and officers, for their role in liberating the region, and offered prayers for the martyrs who sacrificed their lives in this noble struggle.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
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.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. Azerbaijani stage works will be shown in theatres across Turkmenistan during the week of the Foreign Classical Performances dedicated to peace and friendly relations between the peoples of the world, the Azerbaijani Embassy in Turkmenistan told Trend.

According to information, pieces by the eminent Azerbaijani composer Uzeyir Hajibeyli will also be presented as part of the week-long cultural programme, which will take place from 6 to 12 December 2025 in celebration of Turkmenistan's 30th anniversary of permanent neutrality.

By the Decree of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, a theatrical production of Uzeyir Hajibeylis operetta Husband and Wife, which 140th anniversary this year in Azerbaijan and around the world, will be presented in the Turkmen language at the Main Drama Theatre named after the Great Saparmyrat Turkmenbashy in Ashgabat. The performance will also feature simultaneous translation into English and Russian, ensuring broader accessibility for international audiences.

Meanwhile, the works of Uzeyir Hajibeyli hold a distinguished place in Turkmenistans cultural life. In addition to Husband and Wife, the composers timeless operetta Arshin Mal Alan enjoys enduring popularity on various theatre stages in Ashgabat and continues to be highly appreciated by both local audiences and international visitors.

Moreover, within the week, Uzeyir Hajibeyli's play "Arshin Mal Alan" will be traditionally staged at the A.S. Pushkin Russian Drama Theatre in Ashgabat.

Throughout the performance week, Turkmen audiences and international guests will have the opportunity to enjoy works by Azerbaijani, Kyrgyz, Georgian, American, Russian, Italian and French playwrights across the countrys theatre stages.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. Azerbaijan held a meeting on November 27 with representatives of accommodation facilities as part of preparations for the 13th session of the United Nations World Urban Forum (WUF13), which will be hosted in Baku on May 17-22 next year, Trend reports via the State Tourism Agency.

The gathering brought together the management of the WUF13 Azerbaijan Operations Company and representatives of the Azerbaijan Tourism Board, operating under the State Tourism Agency. During the meeting, they outlined the overall organizational approach and standards for the global forum, including guest accommodation, service expectations, logistics, and the importance of integrating accommodation providers into the preparation process through unified coordination.

The participants emphasized that accommodation facilities in Azerbaijan have gained valuable experience in hosting major international events, and potential avenues for cooperation were highlighted.

Representatives from over 100 accommodation establishments across Baku, Sumgayit, and Absheron attended the meeting, where preparation-related issues were discussed, and industry questions were addressed.

The forum, themed Housing for All: Safe and Sustainable Cities and Human Settlements, is set to take place from May 17-22, 2026. It will convene a diverse range of participants, including government representatives, municipal authorities, private sector stakeholders, civil society groups, youth, academia, and international organizations.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. Fuad Muradov, Chairman of the State Committee on Work with Diaspora of the Republic of Azerbaijan, met with a delegation headed by Abdulhadi Turus, Acting Head of the General Directorate for Turks Living Abroad and Related Communities (YTB) of Turkiye, Trend reports via the State Committee on Work with Diaspora.

The chairman of the committee warmly welcomed the guests and noted that the friendly and fraternal relations between the presidents of Azerbaijan and Turkiye play a special role in the strong foundation of relations between our countries. It was emphasized that the existing high-level political ties between the heads of state further strengthen the ties between our peoples and create broad opportunities for joint activities in all areas. The chairman also spoke about the activities of Azerbaijani diaspora organizations, touched upon the importance of coordinated work between the diasporas of the two brotherly countries, and drew attention to the importance of cooperation projects with Turkic-speaking states, as well as expanding ties with our compatriots in Turkiye.

During the discussions, attention was drawn to the provisions of the Shusha Declaration on the activities of the diaspora, and it was noted that these provisions provide for cooperation between the diasporas of Turkic-speaking countries and impose obligations on the responsible diaspora structures.

Abdulhadi Turus expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome and introduction. He noted that cooperation between structures is developing and that there is great potential for expanding joint projects and initiatives. Taking into account the different views of the new generation of the diaspora, he noted the importance of implementing joint projects and pointed out that internship programs can yield positive results.

Moreover, it was noted that the exchange of experience in the field of diaspora and lobbying, the implementation of projects based on a common strategy with young people acting as a bridge between different cultures, and the formation of a common basis for conveying the truth about both countries to the international community could give new momentum to the diaspora policies of the two brotherly countries.

The parties held a broad exchange of views on further strengthening the unity and solidarity of diaspora organizations representing the Turkic world, exchanging experience, implementing long-term joint projects, and a number of other areas.

On November 10, 2018, the State Committee on Work with Diaspora of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Directorate for Turks Abroad and Related Communities of the Republic of Turkiye signed a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the field of diaspora policy.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. Azerbaijan's efforts to install new Radio and Television Broadcasting Station (RTBS) across the territories liberated from occupation are steadily progressing, Trend reports.

Reportedly, eight RTBS facilities, in Shusha, Kalbajar, Mincivan (Zangilan), Khanlig (Gubadli), Shahyeri (Hadrut), Lachin, Balasoltanli (Gubadli), and Hasanriz village (Aghdara) have already been restored and brought back into service.

These stations now ensure stable television and radio broadcasting for Shusha, Khankendi, Khojaly, Lachin, Kalbajar, Khojavand, Gubadli, Fuzuli, Jabrayil, Zangilan, Aghdam, Aghdara, and nearby settlements, significantly strengthening the regions media coverage.

The Hasanriz RTBS in Aghdara district, which had long been in disrepair, was fully restored on January 17, 2025. The facility was reconnected to the power supply, the technical building underwent repairs, and modern equipment was installed, allowing the station to resume full operation.

Meanwhile, construction has begun on the RTBS in the administrative area of the Khojaly district, known as the Khankendi RTBS. To ensure high-quality monitoring of the construction process, dedicated equipment for Time Lapse video recording has been installed on-site. According to officials, all work is advancing in line with the approved project schedule.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Irans non-oil exports to Georgia gain momentum in 7M2025

From March 21 through October 22, 2025, Iran exported 329,000 tons of non-oil products to Georgia, valued at $132 million, a 2.8% drop in value. Total non-oil trade turnover with Georgia was $174 million for 343,000 tons, down 29% in value and 4% in volume from last year.

Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register
VIENTIANE, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Laos' Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday issued a statement, reaffirming its commitment to the one-China principle.

According to the statement, the ministry noted that 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Lao People's Democratic Republic, the 80th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War, the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations, and the 70th anniversary of Laos' accession to the United Nations.

The ministry emphasized that a core purpose of the United Nations is to uphold the post-World War II international order. On this occasion, Laos reaffirmed its longstanding position by firmly supporting UN General Assembly Resolution 2758, upholding the one-China principle, recognizing Taiwan as an inalienable part of the territory of the People's Republic of China, and opposing any interference in China's internal affairs. 
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. The International Road Transport Union (IRU) is expanding its technical cooperation with Iran to improve the efficiency, security, and sustainability of road transport, IRU TIR and Transit Director Tatiana Rey-Bellet told Trend in an exclusive interview.

"IRU works very closely with countries in the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) region, including Iran, to make transport and transit more efficient, secure, and sustainable," Rey-Bellet said. She noted that the union, together with ECO, has developed an action plan targeting several key areas, including the digitalization of customs and transport procedures, the facilitation of border-crossing processes, the enhancement of regional corridors, and the improvement of road safety through training and certification.

As part of these efforts, IRU has launched the CPC Manager project in Iran. "This program for passenger and goods transport provides internationally recognised standards, training methodology and best practices for road transport managers to run safe, efficient and sustainable operations," Rey-Bellet said. She added that IRU is working to extend training to professional commercial drivers in the country.

On the use of the TIR system, Rey-Bellet said the ECO region is a major contributor, accounting for over 70% of TIR carnets issued globally.

"Uzbekistan, Iran, and Turkiye are the worlds top issuers of TIR carnets," she said. TIR carnets, which facilitate international trucking with enhanced efficiency and security, are widely used for transit along both East-West and North-South corridors in the region.

IRU flags border bottlenecks, calls for wider TIR use

She further noted that the IRU highlights procedural and customs barriers at Iranian borders as key constraints on transit, while urging broader implementation of its TIR system to ease congestion.

"Our recent border visits - Bazargan (IranTurkiye), Astara and Bilesavar (Iran-Azerbaijan) - focused on identifying potential areas for improvement through the tried-and-tested TIR system," Rey-Bellet said.

One major issue identified is the limited capacity of neighbouring countries to process trucks, she said. "Low-risk transport must wait for procedures to be completed for high-risk cargo, creating congestion at borders - both on exit and entry".

The IRU director suggested that risk-management tools, such as TIRs advance cargo information system (TIR-EPD), could help distinguish between low- and high-risk transports and channel them accordingly. "Under TIR, all customs formalities are performed at departure and destination, and customs authorities do not need to physically inspect goods at borders. If TIR provisions are fully implemented, border-crossing volumes could be significantly increased," she added.

During the visits, officials agreed to prioritise TIR by establishing Green Lanes for trucks and expanding access to TIR carnets for operators and drivers. Rey-Bellet noted that challenges remain in TIR implementation, with plans to organise capacity-building activities for relevant stakeholders through IRU associations and local branches.

IRU urges support for direct cross-border transport

She pointed out that the IRU sees road transport and the TIR system as central to connecting Irans maritime gateways with the Caspian region, the Caucasus, and onward to Europe, while helping operators navigate sanctions-related complications.

"Our key priority with TIR is to reduce transport and border-crossing times while enhancing security," Rey-Bellet said. She noted that port procedures must be aligned with business needs. "If trade partners prefer to transship goods at ports and transport them directly to the final destination across borders without further transshipment, this choice should be supported by legislation and procedures".

Rey-Bellet said IRU is working with ECO and TRACECA to test East-West and North-South routes and to identify challenges and opportunities to create viable transportation options for secure trade. She added that IRUs main focus with UNECE and other regional bodies in the coming months is to support the regions rapid transition to eTIR.

On the impact of sanctions, she said restrictions complicate banking, insurance and guarantee arrangements, but they do not prohibit international transit. In fact, under Article 11 of the WTO TFA, countries must ensure freedom of transit.

She said the TIR system offers a secure framework for moving goods through Iran to neighbouring Central Asian states, helping operators maintain trade continuity. "TIR ensures full transparency on the start and end points of each transport, guaranteeing that goods remain sealed and are delivered intact to their final destination, with no commercial transactions occurring during transit".

Rey-Bellet added that operators ultimately choose the most suitable routes, but alternatives often face constraints. "Pakistans borders with Afghanistan remain closed. In this context, Iran continues to serve as a practical and viable transit option for sustaining regional and global trade flows," she said.
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, November 28. Individuals in Uzbekistan sold $17.5 billion worth of currency to commercial banks from January through October 2025 (compared to $13.2 billion during the same period in 2024) and purchased $9.7 billion worth of currency, which is 25 percent more than the previous year, Trend reports via the Central Bank of Uzbekistan (CBU)

Furthermore, over the same period, the country received $15.8 billion in remittances, which is also 25 percent higher compared to last year. This inflow contributed to strengthening the supply side of the domestic foreign exchange market.

Consequently, the national currency strengthened by 7 percent over the period from January through October 2025.

According to official assessments, the strengthening of the exchange rate was driven by several key factors, including:

* higher export revenues;

* a notable rise in international remittances;

* increased foreign borrowing;

* relative stabilization of import payment volumes;

* growth in investment flows, including foreign direct investment (FDI).

This inflow contributed to strengthening the supply side of the domestic foreign exchange market.
ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, November 28. A total of 36,944 POS terminals were operating across Turkmenistan as of November 1, 2025.

The data obtained by Trend from the country's Central Bank indicates that Ashgabat hosts the largest number of terminals, with 12,339 units, representing roughly one-third of the national total. Lebap follows with 6,029 terminals, while Mary and Balkan have 5,954 and 5,079, respectively.

Dashoguz and Ahal maintain between 2,372 and 5,035 terminals, and Arkadag has the fewest, with only 136.

The distribution indicates that POS terminal infrastructure is concentrated in major population centers, with urbanized regions having significantly higher coverage than smaller or less populated areas.

Established in 1991, the Central Bank of Turkmenistan oversees the national financial system and serves as the authoritative source for official banking statistics.
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, November 28. Uzbekistan has introduced criminal liability for the circulation of electronic cigarettes, Trend reports via the Ministry of Justice of Uzbekistan.

According to the ministry, recent amendments to the Law On Restricting the Distribution and Consumption of Alcohol and Tobacco Products establish a ban on the circulation of electronic cigarettes and related liquids.

Amendments to the Criminal Code stipulate that the production, purchase, storage, transportation, sale, manufacture, import, or export of tobacco products and electronic nicotine delivery systems, including e-cigarettes, prohibited for circulation in Uzbekistan, will be punishable if committed on a large scale or if repeated after an administrative penalty for the same actions.

The penalties include:

 a fine ranging from 300 to 500 BRV (base calculation units);

 corrective labor for a term of 2 to 3 years;

 restriction of liberty for 3 to 5 years; or

 imprisonment for 3 to 5 years.

At the same time, individuals are exempt from liability if they voluntarily report their actions to the authorities and hand over prohibited products.

Meanwhile, the draft law establishing administrative and criminal liability for the illegal circulation of such products was approved by the Senate in April of this year.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, November 28. Uzbekistan and Canada discussed expanding bilateral cooperation in the oil and gas sector, focusing on technology exchange, the introduction of innovative solutions, and professional training for industry specialists, Trend reports via Uzbekneftegaz JSC.

These topics were addressed during a meeting between Chairman of the Management Board of Uzbekneftegaz JSC Bahodirjon Sidikov and a Canadian delegation led by Christopher Duggan, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Canada to Uzbekistan.

A separate focus was placed on the activities of Condor Energies, which is implementing several projects in Uzbekistan and has achieved significant results in deploying advanced technological solutions. The parties underscored the transformative capabilities of contemporary lateral drilling methodologies and advanced data analytics frameworks to optimize operational efficacy.

The Canadian delegates articulated their preparedness to engage in initiatives pertaining to the exploration, production, and processing of hydrocarbons, as well as in the digital transformation of the industry, including the use of artificial intelligence, automation, data analysis, and energy-efficient technologies.

Following the meeting, both parties reaffirmed their interest in developing long-term partnerships, establishing practical mechanisms for technical expertise exchange, and expanding business cooperation between companies of the two countries.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Subscription to paid content

Gain access to all that Trend has to offer, as well as to premium, licensed content via subscription or direct purchase through a credit card.
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, November 28. In recent years, Uzbekistan and the United Arab Emirates have joined forces, rolling up their sleeves to launch over 300 collaborative initiatives spanning more than 40 different fields, Trend reports via the press service of the President of Uzbekistan.

These figures were announced during a meeting in which President Shavkat Mirziyoyev received a UAE delegation led by the Minister of Cabinet Affairs, Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi.

The sides discussed further strengthening UzbekEmirati relations of friendship and strategic partnership, as well as the practical implementation of agreements reached during the high-level visit to the UAE in January this year.

The meeting also emphasized the need for full-scale execution of the new five-year program of mutually beneficial cooperation aimed at enhancing public administration efficiency.

Special attention was given to joint plans to introduce the UAEs advanced practices in reducing bureaucracy, train 5 million prompt engineers in the field of artificial intelligence, and promote initiatives such as Young Generation and Book Challenge.

The parties additionally agreed to ensure thorough preparation for upcoming high-level events.

Concurrently, commencing in 2021, the bilateral trade dynamics between Uzbekistan and the UAE have exhibited a consistent upward trajectory, averaging an annual growth rate exceeding 20 percent, culminating in an approximate trade volume of $650 million by the conclusion of 2024. The project portfolio involving leading Emirati companies in Uzbekistan has exceeded $20 billion, with several new agreements signed during the 4th Tashkent Investment Forum.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. Employment levels in Azerbaijans liberated territories have surpassed 92 percent, Sadig Aliyev, Chairman of the Board of the State Employment Agency, told reporters, Trend reports.

Aliyev noted that as part of the Great Return program, the employment prospects of residents are assessed before they relocate to the liberated territories.

Throughout this period, we have operated in the liberated areas under the motto From Employment to Resettlement, and the first step is to assess the employment opportunities of those who settle there. Before relocation, we evaluate their professional skills, identify their qualifications, and then gather information on available vacancies offered by employers in the liberated territories. After that, we work on ensuring their employment, he said.

Meanwhile, Azerbaijan's Great Return program prioritizes ensuring employment for internally displaced persons (IDPs) until they resettle in the liberated territories. As part of this policy, implemented by the State Employment Agency, residents' professional skills are assessed, and job vacancies in the liberated territories are identified to ensure their economic stability after returning home. This initiative is an important component of the broader Great Return project aimed at restoring and resettling territories liberated after the 2020 Second Karabakh War.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. Azerbaijan and China have held discussions on expanding cooperation in the financial sector, Taleh Kazimov, Governor of the Central Bank of Azerbaijan, said in a post on his official X page, Trend reports.

As part of our business trip to the Peoples Republic of China, we held a meeting with Li Yunze, Minister of the National Financial Regulatory Administration of China.

During the discussions, we exchanged in-depth views on recent innovations in both economies and the reforms undertaken in recent years. We thoroughly reviewed development trends in the banking and insurance sectors, the principles of risk-oriented supervision, and advances in supervisory technologies, including the use of artificial intelligence in oversight processes. We also shared our experience in introducing new approaches and innovative solutions within the insurance sector, the publication reads.

The post pointed out that the meeting also brought up chances to build up cooperation between the financial supervisory authorities of Azerbaijan and China.

While discussing the prospects for deepening ties between the banking and insurance sectors, both sides expressed their interest in further developing this cooperation, the statement further reads.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. Global investment in geothermal energy is poised for strong growth, with capital expenditures expected to rise around 20% annually through 2030, according to recent research from Rystad Energy, Trend reports.

The sector is expanding beyond its traditional hubs in Southeast Asia and the US, with growing interest in Europe and Africa, contributing to a more globally diversified market.

Rystads analysis shows that spending remains relatively consistent across development categories: just over half goes to surface facilities, about 47% to subsurface work, and roughly 2% to pre-final investment decision (FID) activities. While the pre-FID share is small, it carries high risk as early exploration determines whether projects move forward. This stable cost structure keeps financing needs and project timelines fairly uniform across regions.

Geothermal deployment varies by region. In Europe, the focus is on district heating and decarbonizing heat, driven by municipal heating networks and climate targets. In Asia, particularly Indonesia, and North America, geothermal is mainly used for electricity generation, reflecting strong baseload power demand and abundant geological resources. Enhanced geothermal systems (EGS), which tap hot rock rather than aquifers, are helping reduce site dependence and unlock additional clean power potential.

The technologys long-term potential in cooling applications is also emerging. Pilot projects, including the UAEs G2COOL plant, are exploring geothermal solutions for data centers. Rystad notes that district heating systems generally require about $3 per watt, roughly half the cost of power-focused geothermal plants at $6 per watt, due to the need for turbines and complex surface infrastructure in electricity projects.

Alexandra Gerken, Rystad Energys Vice President of New Energies Analysis, said the research highlights geothermals dual role as a source of clean baseload power and heat, increasingly tailored to regional needs. Policymakers, investors, and developers can use these insights to assess project feasibility and prioritize investments as the sector grows globally.
BEIJING, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- The Supreme People's Procuratorate (SPP) has released a circular to launch a targeted campaign against arrears of wages for migrant workers and other disadvantaged groups.

Per the circular, procuratorial authorities nationwide should combat the malicious practice of wage arrears in accordance with the law and hand down corresponding penalties in a strict manner.

Efforts to help migrant workers in need recover their income arrears should be sustained throughout the whole campaign to ensure that they are paid in a prioritized, prompt and full manner, according to the circular.

It also urged redoubling support for migrant workers in need to press prosecutions in court and enhancing oversight on industries such as project construction, online order delivery and public sanitation, where arrears of wages occur relatively more frequently.

The circular also specified efforts to facilitate negotiations and settlement between enterprises and migrant workers in eligible cases, and proactively provide legal aid for those in need. 
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. Reconstruction work on electricity infrastructure costing 10.9 million manat ($6.4 million) will be carried out in a number of villages of Azerbaijan's Aghdara and Khojaly districts, Trend reports.

The complete reconstruction of internal and external electricity supply will cover Ashaghi Oratagh, Chapar, and Damirli villages in Aghdara, as well as Tazabina, Seyidbeyli, Dashbulag, Badara, Khanyurdu, and Ballija villages in Khojali.

Azerishig Open Joint-Stock Company (OJSC) has successfully completed the requisite operational tasks.

The mandate for the execution of the reconstruction project was conferred, culminating in the formalization of a contractual agreement with Shans Construction LLC. In accordance with the contractual agreement, the entity received the aforementioned remuneration.

The Shans Construction LLC was registered in 2021. It has a charter capital of 215,010 manat ($126,400), and its legal representative is Vugar Orujov.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Photo: State Tax Service under the Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Azerbaijan

BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. An Azerbaijani delegation from the State Tax Service under the Ministry of Economy held a series of working meetings at the Tax Agency of the Kingdom of Sweden during an official visit, Trend reports, citing the service.

The main goals of the visit were to swap stories and share the wealth of knowledge, to study advanced international approaches in tax administration, to analyze digital transformation processes, to explore the potential application of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, and to conduct comparative evaluations of debt management and risk-based tax control models.

During the visit, the Azerbaijani delegation participated in presentations and discussions on AI-based service models, excise tax control mechanisms, functional features of a digitalized tax declaration ecosystem, and strategies for human resource development. In addition, the parties exchanged views on expanded international data sharing, the use of big data in risk audits, strengthening tax compliance, and improving the efficiency of modern control tools.

Both sides emphasized the importance of further expanding cooperation in tax administration and continuing joint training and experience-sharing programs while reviewing potential collaborative initiatives in the sector.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, November 28. The Cabinet of Ministers has approved a revised set of rules governing the calculation and payment of fees for retaining subsoil use licenses, according to a resolution signed by Cabinet Chairman Adylbek Kasymaliev, Trend reports via the cabinet.

The new version replaces the 2022 regulations and is intended to bring the procedure in line with the Code on Non-Tax Revenues while strengthening payment administration in the mining sector. The resolution will come into force 10 days after its official publication.

A key element of the reform is the transfer of oversight authority from the Ministry of Natural Resources to fiscal bodies. To implement this transition, the ministry has been instructed to provide the State Tax Service with a complete registry of fee payers as of December 31, 2025, along with information on overpayments, existing arrears, and the total fee obligations for 2025.

The updated regulation is key for the Kyrgyz Republic, where the mining sector has long stood out as a cornerstone of the national economy. Factual data highlights that the mining and quarrying industry consistently accounts for approximately 7-8 percent of the country's total GDP and contributes between 40 percent and 50 percent of the total industrial output. Furthermore, subsoil use fees and associated taxes are a major source of revenue for the state budget. The largest single contributor remains the Kumtor gold mine, which alone generates a significant portion of the sector's total revenue.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Photo: The Ministry of Economy and Finance of Uzbekistan

TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, November 28. Uzbekistan and Austria have agreed to establish a joint working group to coordinate bilateral cooperation, identify priority areas, and advance joint projects, Trend reports via the Uzbek Ministry of Investments, Industry, and Trade.

The new platform will focus on key areas such as energy saving and energy efficiency, sustainable urban development, e-government and digitalization of public services, reform of the public procurement system, and digitalization of small and medium-sized businesses.

These commitments were formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding, signed by Deputy Ministers of Economy and Finance of Uzbekistan Ilkhomjon Umrzakov and Umid Abidhadjaev, and Deputy Minister of the Federal Ministry of Finance of Austria Andreas Reichhardt.

During the negotiations, the sides also discussed a broad agenda aimed at strengthening bilateral economic cooperation. Special attention was given to:

* modernization of the financial sector;

* development of energy-efficient and green technologies;

* digitalization of economic processes;

* introduction of innovative approaches in infrastructure development.

The parties also evaluated operational frameworks for executing collaborative initiatives and enhancing synergistic alliances.
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, November 28. Uzbekistan and Canada explored opportunities to launch new joint projects in green and renewable energy, Trend reports via the Ministry of Investment, Industry, and Trade of Uzbekistan.

These issues were discussed during a meeting between Uzbekistans Minister of Investment, Industry, and Trade, Laziz Kudratov, and Canadas Ambassador to Uzbekistan, Christopher Duggan.

According to the ministry, the parties also looked into opportunities for teaming up in information technology, transport and logistics infrastructure, water management and agriculture, along with mining and metallurgy. Both sides emphasized their interest in strengthening institutional ties, improving coordination, and moving toward a more systematic format of bilateral cooperation. It was noted that the steady development of contacts is creating a solid foundation for practical joint initiatives.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties reiterated their commitment to enhance the strategic alliance and broaden collaborative efforts across all delineated domains.

Meanwhile, earlier during his visit to Tashkent, Ambassador Christopher Duggan met with the Chairman of the Management Board of Uzbekneftegaz JSC, Bahodirjon Sidikov. The parties engaged in a dialogue aimed at amplifying bilateral synergies within the hydrocarbon domain, emphasizing the transfer of technological competencies, the deployment of avant-garde solutions, and the enhancement of professional development for sector experts.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, November 28. Kyrgyzstan's economy has demonstrated significant growth, with a reported GDP expansion of 11.7 percent from January through July 2025, marking one of the highest growth rates in the region, Head of Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan, Adylbek Kasymaliev said during a breakfast with members of the Bundestags Germany-Central Asia Friendship Group, Trend reports via the Kyrgyz Cabinet of Ministers.

Prime Minister Adylbek Kasymaliev attributed Kyrgyzstan's economic success to ongoing national modernization efforts, which include streamlining administrative procedures, overhauling the tax system, and introducing digital services to attract foreign investment. Over the past three years, the country has consistently achieved an average annual GDP growth rate of at least 9%, reflecting a robust economic recovery.

The meeting also emphasized the increasing significance of bilateral cooperation between Kyrgyzstan and Germany, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure development, and export diversification. Kasymaliev underscored Kyrgyzstan's view of Germany as a key partner within the European Union and highlighted the importance of Germanys engagement in the "Central Asia +" initiative, a diplomatic platform designed to strengthen ties between Central Asia and Europe.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister acknowledged the success of previous visits by the Germany-Central Asia Friendship Group to Bishkek, describing them as pivotal in fostering mutual trust and advancing both political and economic dialogue.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. On November 26, Baku once again became a hub for Eurasian logistics, hosting the 83rd meeting of the CIS Council on Railway Transport. The gathering sent a significant political and economic signal, coming on the heels of a trilateral memorandum signed between Azerbaijan, Russia, and Iran. The document on the development of the western route of the International North-South Transport Corridor confirmed once again that Azerbaijan today is the most reliable and predictable link on this route - a fact well understood by both Moscow and Tehran.

The memorandum signed in Baku provides for the coordination of tariffs, the creation of a single comprehensive tariff, and the launch of regular block trains. In practice, this means establishing a seamless logistics chain without sudden cost jumps or technical delays, which is critically important for shippers. "This approach ensures transparency of conditions and price stability over a defined period, creating a more comfortable and predictable environment for shippers," RZD CEO Oleg Belozyorov told journalists on the sidelines of the event.

The fact that Russia and Iran are signing such agreements specifically with Azerbaijan demonstrates their practical choice. If there were a real alternative to the western route, whether an eastern bypass through Central Asia or purely maritime logistics, neither Moscow nor Tehran would invest in a multi-level tariff and infrastructure system centered on Azerbaijani territory.

Notably, alongside these tariff agreements, Moscow is accelerating construction of the key Iranian section of Rasht-Astara, which had long been considered a bottleneck. In May 2023, Russia signed an intergovernmental agreement to finance the project. Iran, in turn, has sped up land acquisition: 95% of the territory is already formalized. Russian engineers are carrying out works on the acquired sections, with construction planned to begin after 2026.

Both Russia and Iran are investing resources, time, and political capital into developing a route that runs exclusively through Azerbaijan. This is a direct acknowledgment that this path is viewed by them as the primary and long-term option.

Against this backdrop, Azerbaijan is developing its section of the North-South corridor at a much faster pace. Reconstruction of the Sumgayit-Yalama line will be completed by the end of the year. Construction of the Horadiz-Agbend line is in full swing, with plans to extend it to the Armenian border by 2026. Meanwhile, a 188-kilometer section through Nakhchivan is being restored.

These are systemic investments in future cargo flows. Azerbaijan has already set a goal: to increase North-South freight volumes to 5 million tons by 2028 and eventually to 15 million tons.

Tehran recognizes these efforts and describes them as key. "It is encouraging that Azerbaijan is also taking steps to develop its domestic railway infrastructure. This, in itself, will help increase freight volumes," Iranian Deputy Minister of Roads Jabbar Ali Zakeri told Trend in an exclusive interview.

The reliability of Azerbaijani transit is confirmed not only by plans but also by facts. Only with Bakus consent to open transit to Yerevan were the first shipments of Kazakh and Russian wheat to Armenia successfully carried out. The route through Russia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia has been tested successfully and can now become regular.

The Astara terminal, leased to Azerbaijan for 25 years, is becoming one of the main freight hubs. In 2023, it handled 692,000 tons, and in 2024 around 800,000 tons; once construction is complete, its capacity will rise to 3.5-4 million tons annually. This is a strategic asset not only for the western route but also for the corridors maritime branch.

When the region needs real logistics, the choice always falls on Azerbaijani transit. The trilateral memorandum signed in Baku is a political signal, an economic calculation, and a logistical reality in which Azerbaijan plays a central role.

Russia sees Azerbaijani territory as the only truly predictable route to Iran and beyond - to the ports of the Persian Gulf. International organizations working on optimizing the corridor highlight Azerbaijans section as the most prepared for digitalization and modernization.

All of this leads to a simple conclusion: Azerbaijan is the most reliable and sustainable partner for transit between Northern and Southern Eurasia. And the countries participating in the North-South project not only recognize this - they build their strategies around it.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. Since the start of commercial operations on 1 October 2022 and up to the end of October 2025, the cumulative transported quantities through the Interconnector Greece-Bulgaria (IGB) reach 39 854 049 MWh Greece to Bulgaria and 1 919 228 MWh in virtual reverse flow to Greece, the ICGB AD, the pipeline operator, told Trend.

Reportedly, for the period JanuaryOctober 2025 alone, the quantities reached 8,486,142 MWh from Greece to Bulgaria and 153,062 MWh in reverse flow.

"The interconnector has established itself as the first route for diversified natural gas supplies to Bulgaria, providing over 50% of the countrys domestic consumption. The interconnector has a strong regional impact as a central component of the Vertical Gas Corridor - an initiative designed to support scalable, bidirectional gas flows from South to North, enhancing access to LNG and other diversified sources for countries across the region. The independent transmission system operator ICGB continues its active engagement with partners to enable the launch and implementation of Routes 2 and 3 which will further strengthen regional energy security and provide new opportunities for delivering gas to markets such as Moldova and Ukraine at a time of increased strategic importance. The newly introduced capacity products are a flexible market solution that reflects the changed energy security dynamic in the region," the company said.

ICGB Executive Officer Teodora Georgieva noted that the results of the past few months reflect the strength of the partnerships that stand behind the IGB pipeline.

"Our long-established cooperation with Azerbaijan and the stability provided by the long-term contract for Azeri gas continue to be fundamental for Bulgaria and the wider region. At the same time, the Vertical Gas Corridor and the IGB route are opening new opportunities for diversified supplies, including American LNG, which further enhances the resilience of regional markets, she added.

The IGB gas pipeline connects with the Greek national gas transmission system (DESFA S.A.) and the Trans-Adriatic gas pipeline (TAP AG) in the area of Komotini (Greece), and with the Bulgarian gas transmission system (Bulgartransgaz EAD) in the area of Stara Zagora.

The total length of the gas pipeline is 182 km, the diameter of the pipe - 32'' - and a design capacity of up to 3 billion m3/year in the direction Greece - Bulgaria. Depending on the market interest for larger capacity and the possibilities of the neighboring gas transmission systems, the capacity of IGB is designed with the option for increase up to 5 billion m3/year.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. ICGB, operator of the Interconnector Greece-Bulgaria (IGB), is progressing with the pipelines expansion project, which foresees an increase of the interconnectors technical capacity from 3 to 5 bcm per year, the ICGB told Trend.

The expansion is driven by the heightened strategic interest in the route and is aligned with Europes broader objectives for ensuring flexibility and long-term supply stability. While the expansion is up for approval from the companys shareholders, ICGB is already a few steps ahead  with the procurement strategy approved and design process for its first gas metering station ready. The operator has completed the necessary preparatory work and continues to engage actively with international partners, including U.S. institutions, whose financial support could accelerate the final investment decision, the company said.

ICGB Executive Officer George Satlas pointed out that IGBs recent performance demonstrates that the pipeline has evolved into a strategic backbone for Southeast Europe.

The positive response to Routes 2 and 3 confirms the regional need for reliable, diversified access to LNG and other sources, and highlights the essential role of the Vertical Gas Corridor in connecting these supplies to markets with growing security needs such as Moldova and Ukraine. Ensuring this flexibility and resilience is at the heart of ICGBs mission, and the IGB route is positioned today as one of the most impactful energy infrastructures in the area, he said.

The executive officer pointed out that as ICGB is looking ahead to the next stages of development, its focus remains on enhancing a reliable, flexible network that reinforces the security of supply for all countries that rely on this corridor.

The IGB gas pipeline connects with the Greek national gas transmission system (DESFA S.A.) and the Trans-Adriatic gas pipeline (TAP AG) in the area of Komotini (Greece), and with the Bulgarian gas transmission system (Bulgartransgaz EAD) in the area of Stara Zagora.

The total length of the gas pipeline is 182 km, the diameter of the pipe - 32'' - and a design capacity of up to 3 billion m3/year in the direction Greece - Bulgaria. Depending on the market interest for larger capacity and the possibilities of the neighboring gas transmission systems, the capacity of IGB is designed with the option for increase up to 5 billion m3/year.
by Xinhua writer Gao Wencheng

EDINBURGH, Britain, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- China's diverse city development and expanding investment landscape are creating new opportunities for cooperation between China and Britain, Peter Burnett, chief executive of the China-Britain Business Council (CBBC), said here on Thursday.

Burnett made the remarks in an interview with Xinhua during the China-Scotland Economic and Trade Cooperation Forum. The event, jointly hosted by the China Chamber of Commerce in the UK (CCCUK) and the CBBC, also witnessed the establishment of the CCCUK Scotland Branch.

Burnett had just concluded a 2.5-week trip to China. The visit, he said, offered a clear demonstration of the distinct characteristics and development priorities of Chinese cities.

"In Shenzhen, the focus is on innovation, information technology and artificial intelligence," he said. "Xi'an presents rich historical heritage, while Beijing, as the capital, and Shanghai, as an entrepreneurial hub, each offer unique strengths."

Burnett noted that despite their differences, all of them conveyed a consistent message: China remains open to investment and actively encourages both foreign companies entering the country and Chinese companies going global.

Burnett observed that past investment patterns on both sides tended to concentrate on a limited number of major cities. However, he emphasized that this trend is shifting.

"We now see increasing investment in inland cities such as Chengdu, Chongqing, Xi'an and Wuhan. These cities offer strong industrial foundations and growing market potential," he said.

A similar development is emerging in Britain.

"Chinese companies are beginning to look beyond London when considering Britain as an investment destination," Burnett said. "Here in Edinburgh, we have learned about impressive research and development cooperation with Chinese partners."

Burnett added that sectors including advanced manufacturing, electric vehicles and broader sustainable-technology industries are evaluating regional locations across Britain for new facilities.

According to him, to support this changing landscape, the CBBC has strengthened its engagement with regional economies across Britain.

"One of our priorities is to ensure that our services and expertise cover a wider geographical range," Burnett said. "This is important not only for our UK members, but also for our China-based members exploring investment opportunities beyond London." 
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. The EIB Group has created a new council of international experts to provide external guidance for EIB Global, its development arm, Trend reports via the EIB.

The body, chaired by former Italian Prime Minister Paolo Gentiloni, held its inaugural meeting on 26 November 2025.

The launch follows the recent endorsement of the EIB Global Strategic Orientation by the EIB Groups shareholders  the 27 EU Member States  who unanimously supported a more strategic and focused approach to the institutions global operations. The EIB Group says that, amid a shifting geopolitical environment, it is uniquely positioned to foster global partnerships and promote growth and prosperity rooted in European values and policy priorities.

The new strategic orientation outlines a more differentiated geographic approach, with a strong emphasis on supporting EU enlargement and enhancing economic, political and social stability in the EUs neighbourhood. Key priority sectors include clean energy, sustainable transport, water infrastructure, global health, education, and private sector development  particularly initiatives benefiting women- and youth-led businesses.

EIB Globals activities will also align with the second phase of the Climate Bank Roadmap, which aims to double investments dedicated to climate change adaptation.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. The member states of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) have reached an agreement on a strategic roadmap aimed at achieving universal internet access, Trend reports, citing the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport.

This pivotal decision was made at the conclusion of the World Telecommunication Development Conference (WTDC-25), which wrapped up today in Baku

The two-week event was held in partnership with the ITU and marked the first time the conference took place in the CIS region.

As President Ilham Aliyev emphasized in his address, Baku became the place where member states and partners agreed on practical decisions that will define ITUs development directions for the next four years. Working together with partners, Azerbaijan actively contributed to shaping these outcomes. The adoption of the Baku Declaration, which also refers to the COP29 Green Digital Action Declaration, reflects our shared commitment to an inclusive and sustainable digital future, said Minister of Digital Development and Transport Rashad Nabiyev.

The resolutions adopted at the conference cover areas such as radio-frequency management, cybersecurity, digital inclusion, the application of information and communication technologies (ICT), innovation, and the use of digital technologies in remote regions.

The Baku Action Plan outlines the main priorities for human-centred digital development, highlighting the needs of developing countries, communities with limited access to digital services, and vulnerable groups. Currently, more than 2 billion people worldwide remain offline. The plan for the period covering the years 2026-2029 aims to support universal and accessible internet connectivity as a foundation for an inclusive and sustainable digital future.

WTDC-25 has brought us closer to our goal of ensuring universal, useful, and affordable connectivity for everyone, everywhere, during this decade. The Baku Declaration and the Action Plan represent a people-centred digital development roadmap that leaves no one behind, said ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin.

The Baku Action Plan includes regional initiatives, new and updated resolutions guiding ITUs digital development efforts, and recommendations for the ITU Telecommunication Development Sector (ITU-D). The document also outlines technical topics to be studied by expert groups and sets priorities for digital development across six regions, including infrastructure, digital skills, and inclusive services. It envisions building partnerships and mobilizing resources to meet regional needs.

The Baku Action Plan defines a roadmap for reducing digital divides. It also considers the specific needs of least-developed countries, landlocked developing countries, and small island developing states. In cooperation with governments and regulators, we will work to create policies and regulatory frameworks that encourage investment from industry and the private sector. This will help close infrastructure gaps and ensure beneficial connectivity and internet access for all, emphasized Cosmas Luckyson Zavazava, Director of the ITU Development Bureau.

At the conference, ITU presented its Global Connectivity Report for 2025, offering recommendations for ensuring access to high-quality internet services at affordable prices. Several agreements were also reached, including a two-year project to support smart village and island programs in the Asia-Pacific region, which will benefit 3,000 people across seven countries, and a regional project to boost digital and professional skills within the CIS, supporting 300 specialists working in satellite communication and broadcast technologies.

WTDC-25 also hosted a high-level dialogue for least-developed countries, landlocked developing countries, and small island developing states. Representatives of these groups outlined their plans to expand broadband coverage, promote human-centered sustainable development, and strengthen safe and inclusive digital futures.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, November 28. In the new unicameral Parliament, there will be no presidential quota, said Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev during a dialogue platform with rural akims (heads of a local government) in Astana, Trend reports via the press service of the Kazakh president.

According to him, the recent initiative is currently under extensive discourse within the public sphere, with numerous propositions being articulated concerning the architectural framework of Parliament. For instance, proposals have been advanced for the proportional allocation of legislative representatives contingent upon demographic metrics.

With such an approach, the number of deputies could reach 200, whereas today there are 148 deputies in the two chambers. Parliamentary reform is not just a mechanical merger of the two chambers. I believe that an excessive increase in the number of deputies is not advisable. On the contrary, we need to optimize and improve the functioning of Parliament. In the new unicameral Parliament, there will be no presidential quotaall deputies should be elected through a unified procedure, he stated.

In his September 2025 Address to the People of Kazakhstan, Tokayev put forth a proposition to deliberate on the matter of legislative reform. He proposed the establishment of a unicameral legislative body to supplant the existing bicameral framework. Tokayev emphasized that this matter necessitates a referendum, potentially slated for 2027.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, November 28. Switzerland has invested a total of $35.8 billion in Kazakhstan since 2005, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said at a meeting with Swiss Vice President, Guy Parmelin in Astana, Trend reports via the Kazakh presidential office.

Tokayev emphasized Kazakhstan's view of Switzerland as a key political and economic partner in Europe, as well as one of the largest investors in the country's economy. Nearly 400 Swiss companies and joint ventures are currently operating in Kazakhstan, according to him.

The president noted that Parmelin's visit to Astana presents valuable opportunities to give a new boost to the bilateral agenda between the two countries. Tokayev also highlighted the positive political dialogue between Astana and Bern, which continues to develop openly and constructively at various levels.

President Tokayev highlighted the robust and dynamic expansion of economic cooperation between Kazakhstan and Switzerland, emphasizing their active collaboration across a range of sectors, including energy, mining, manufacturing, construction, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, finance, and emerging technologies.

In turn, VP Parmelin commended the positive trajectory of bilateral relations and reiterated Switzerland's commitment to strengthening political dialogue, expanding investment initiatives, and advancing joint projects in key economic sectors.
                                    .

                                    .

                      .

                      .

 
MOSCOW, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- Japan's deployment of offensive weapon systems in the region of frontier islands disrupts regional security and stability, posing a serious threat to neighboring countries, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said Thursday.

Russia's observations show that Japan, under Washington's dictates, is systematically transforming these islands, specifically Okinawa, into a military outpost, arming it with weapons that possess not only defensive but also offensive capabilities, she said.

Tokyo's "aggressive militarist course" and such military moves "further escalate tensions in the field of regional security, pose serious risks to neighboring countries, and at the same time justify a firm response to the implementation of Japan's specific plans in this area," she said.

The Russian foreign ministry spokesperson made the remarks at a regular news briefing when responding to a Xinhua reporter's question regarding recent Japanese moves to deploy medium-range missiles on islands near China's Taiwan.

She noted that Japan's deployment of U.S.-made medium-range missiles on the relevant islands is unacceptable.

"We are closely monitoring all statements and actions by Japan's leadership in the context of the remilitarization course it has embarked on," Zakharova said. "Earlier, we have repeatedly drawn attention to the negative impact of Tokyo's such policy on stability and security in our shared region."

"Through diplomatic channels, including the delivery of a relevant note by the Ministry, we have issued a stern warning to Japan that the deployment of U.S.-made medium-range missiles on its relevant territory is unacceptable, regardless of the pretext, whether on a permanent, temporary, or other basis," she noted.

Meanwhile, the spokesperson urged the Japanese government led by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to "return to the foundations on which Japan's post-war peaceful development is built."

"These foundations are enshrined in the outcomes of World War II -- foundations that, unfortunately, as we are once again compelled to note, have not yet been fully acknowledged by Japan," she said. 
Vietnam Briefing has developed into a premium source for insight on doing business in Vietnam. It publishes business news concerning foreign direct investment into Vietnam, including the most important tax, legal and accounting issues. The Vietnam Briefing Magazine was first published in 2009, and is contributed to by investment professionals based in Vietnam.
By Alimat Aliyeva

President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov has signed a law legalizing cryptocurrency mining and establishing the framework for crypto exchanges in the country. Under the new legislation, all miners are required to register with the Central Bank, Azernews reports.

According to the law on virtual assets, both individual entrepreneurs and legal entities are permitted to mine digital currencies. However, using third-party equipment without the owners consent is strictly prohibited.

The operation of crypto exchanges and virtual asset service providers will be allowed only with a license issued by the Central Bank. Licensed services include the exchange, purchase and sale, storage, transfer, and management of virtual assets, as well as their initial placement. Both Turkmen citizens and foreign nationals are allowed to establish crypto exchanges.

Cryptocurrency advertising must include clear warnings about risks, information that virtual assets are not state-backed, and notifications about the potential loss of funds. The law explicitly states that the state is not responsible for depreciation or loss of virtual assets, and that their value is non-refundable.

Interestingly, analysts see this move as Turkmenistans attempt to tap into the growing global crypto market while maintaining strict regulatory oversight. By creating a legal framework, the country hopes to attract foreign investment and develop a domestic digital finance ecosystem, potentially positioning Turkmenistan as a regional hub for cryptocurrency innovation.
BEIJING, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- China will strengthen ethical examination for artificial intelligence (AI) in the patent review process to guide the AI technology to comply with laws, social morality and public interests, the country's top intellectual property (IP) regulator said on Friday.

In a press conference held by the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA), senior CNIPA official Jiang Tong said the newly revised patent review guidelines, which will take effect on Jan. 1, 2026, have established a dedicated section themed on AI and big data for the first time.

The section states that the implementation of technical solutions related to AI, such as data collection and rule setting, must comply with legal requirements, social ethics, and public interests, Jiang added.

It also specifies the requirements for writing descriptions in scenarios such as model construction and model training, and refines the criteria for determining adequate disclosure, addressing potential issues of insufficient disclosure of technical solutions that may arise from the black-box nature of AI models.

In the press conference, another senior CNIPA official, Liang Xinxin, said the IP rights development plan for the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-2030) will continuously deepen international cooperation and exchanges.

It will also convey China's unwavering commitment to protecting the IP rights of both domestic and foreign-invested enterprises equally, foster a favorable business environment for all types of enterprises, and promote dual circulation of domestic and international markets, he added. 
Pope Leo XIV called for unity among Christians on Friday at an ecumenical prayer service on the shores of Lake Iznik to celebrate 1,700 years since one of the early Church's most important gatherings.

On the second day of his visit to Turkey, Leo flew to Iznik, the ancient city of Nicaea, where he joined Patriarch Bartholomew I, leader of the world's Orthodox Christians and other dignitaries at the site where the ancient gathering took place.

Richly dressed in ceremonial robes, they gathered on a wooden platform overlooking the ruins of a 4th-century basilica marking the spot where hundreds of bishops met in 325 to draw up the Nicene Creed, a text still central to Christianity today.

In the warm sunshine, they prayed together in multiple languages as a choir sang a cappella hymns in English, French, Greek, Latin and Turkish.

Speaking in English, the American pope recalled how the Council had unified the early Church by rejecting an Arian heresy questioning Jesus's full divinity, with its anniversary "a precious opportunity to ask ourselves who Jesus Christ... is for each one of us personally."

"We are all invited to overcome the scandal of divisions that unfortunately still exist and to nurture the desire for unity," he said before the leaders recited the Nicene Creed together in English.

Despite doctrinal differences that led to the Great Schism of 1054, resulting in a split between the Roman Catholic church in the West and the Eastern Orthodox church, the two sides maintain dialogue and hold joint celebrations.

Bartholomew's address was also focused on the need for unity.

"With the fervour of the faith of Nicaea burning in our hearts, let us run the course of Christian unity that is set before us," he said.

The pope's trip comes as the Orthodox world appears more fragmented than ever, with Russia's actions in Ukraine accelerating the split between the Moscow and Constantinople patriarchates.

The leader of the world's 1.4 billion Catholics also issued a strong rebuke of faith as a justification for violence.

"We must strongly reject the use of religion for justifying war, violence, or any form of fundamentalism or fanaticism. Instead, the paths to follow are those of fraternal encounter, dialogue and cooperation," he said.

Separately, police in Iznik took away Mehmet Ali Agca, the man who shot and seriously wounded Pope John Paul II in Rome in 1981, Turkish media reported late Thursday.

Agca -- who was released from prison in 2010 -- said he had hoped to meet the pope, telling reporters: "I hope we can sit down and talk in Iznik, or in Istanbul, for two or three minutes."

- Unholy traffic -

Leo began his four-day visit on Thursday in Ankara where he urged President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to embrace Turkey's role as a source of "stability and rapprochement between peoples" in a world gripped by conflict.

Earlier, he joined a prayer service at Istanbul's Catholic Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, the police shutting down a main artery of Turkey's largest city to allow his entourage to pass.

"It's a blessing for us, it's so important that the first visit of the pope is to our country," beamed a 35-year-old Turkish Catholic called Ali Gunuru who was waiting for him outside the church.

Visibly moved, Leo could be seen smiling and looking much more at ease than on Thursday, encouraging his flock to reach out to the many migrants and refugees in Turkey who number nearly three million, most of them Syrians.

The fate of refugees and migrants has been closely followed by the Holy See with Leo recently criticising their "extremely disrespectful" treatment by the government of US President Donald Trump.

Although his visit has drawn little attention in this Muslim-majority nation of 86 million, whose Christian community numbers only around 100,000, his impact on Istanbul's notoriously bad traffic did not pass unnoticed.

"It's an important visit for Istanbul, but we are the ones suffering. Of course it's normal to take security measures, but no one thinks about the workers," a 55-year-old woman called Fatmah told AFP, without giving her surname.

Pope Leo is the fifth pontiff to visit Turkey, after Paul VI in 1967, John Paul II in 1979, Benedict XVI in 2006 and Francis in 2014.

burs-hmw/rlp
 The G20 Heads of State and Government Summit was held in Johannesburg, South Africa, on 22 and 23 November. US President Donald Trump was not there, and the U.S. delegation didnt speak up.

At the opening, speakers stressed the importance of multilateralism and low tariffs.

The theme of the meeting was: "Promoting solidarity and helping developing countries adapt to weather disasters, switch to clean energy and reduce their excessive debt costs"; a view that the new administration in Washington no longer shares.

 Chinese Premier Li Qiang said: "Today, the world economy is once again facing major challenges, marked by a rise in unilateralism and protectionism, as well as the escalation of trade restrictions and confrontations."

 South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has said he should hand over the rotating presidency to an "empty pulpit." He rejected the White Houses offer to send a charge daffaires for the transfer of power.

 Voicing the views of globalists, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney  who was successively Governor of the Bank of Canada (2008-2013) and then Governor of the Bank of England (2013-2020)  said: "This years G20 summit brought together countries representing three-quarters of the worlds population, two-thirds of world GDP and three-quarters of world trade, and this without the United States officially attending. It is a reminder that the center of gravity in the world economy is changing (...) This is multilateralism. And Canada is showing up and Canada is committing. I think collectively, we have made a lot of progress (...) The global economy can do without the United States. When America wants to come back and have trade talks, well have them."
The Ukrainian-Russian conflict is drawing to a close: the Russian and American presidents have agreed on a 28-point plan, modeled on the one adopted by the Security Council for the Arab-Israeli conflict [1].

While the guiding principles were approved at the Anchorage summit (Alaska) on August 15 by Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin themselves, the details were negotiated by Steve Wikoff and Kirill Dmitriev from October 24 to 26 in Miami. This agreement was only officially revealed to Rustem Umerov, secretary of the Ukrainian National Security and Defense Council, at the beginning of last week, before his flight to Qatar. The unelected Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelensky, discovered it in detail on November 20, when Dan Driscoll (Secretary of the Army), and Generals Randy George (Chief of Staff of the Army) and Chris Donahue (Commander of US Forces in Europe and Africa), came to present it to him.

For the past three months, Russian forces have been bombing the integral nationalist units (Banderists or neo-Nazis, according to the Kremlins terminology) of the White Fuhrer, Andriy Biletsky. As a result, he emerged defeated from the successive battles of Mariupol (May 2022), Bakmut/Artyomovsk (December 2023), and Pokrovsk (November 2025).

On November 11, the State Department gave its approval for the release of Operation Midas, a vast investigation by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU), conducted with the assistance of 80 American investigators. It has already led to the resignation of two ministersHerman Halushchenko, Minister of Justice, and Svitlana Grynchuk, Minister of Energyand the flight of Rustem Umerov (already mentioned) to Qatar. In all likelihood, the resignation of Andriy Yermak, the head of the presidential administration, will follow. At that point, Volodymyr Zelensky will be completely exposed: the key political figures he relied on will be destroyed. He will have no choice but to accept Donald Trumps plan or flee himself.

Contrary to what one might expect, the unelected president did not seek to modify the terms of the peace plan when he met with the US delegation on November 20, but rather to add an amnesty; not for war crimes, but for acts of corruption.

Already, Ukrainians who remained in the country (a third of the population has already fled Ukraine, half to Russia, half to the EU) are vehemently opposed to the self-proclaimed president. He was elected to fight corruption, and he has fueled it to unprecedented levels. In November, several riots pitted the population against military recruiters. Even the "hardline nationalists" now believe he can no longer help them achieve their apocalyptic goals against Slavs and are urgently planning to overthrow him.

The member states of the European Union, who envisioned and prepared for a protracted war, cannot accept a capitulation that dare not speak its name. Each is now confronted with the brutal end of its dream. Clearly, the fall of the Ukrainian regime will be followed by that of the European leaders who supported it.

Indeed, the time for reckoning has come. The European Union initially provided 1 billion in cash, then its military committee established a clearing house allowing Ukrainians to select weapons from the stocks of EU member states armed forces. Finally, the Union made its own resources, such as its satellites, available. Over time, the EU provided ever more: up to 3 billion in July and August.

Let no one believe that this is solely the initiative of Commission officials. On March 1, 2022, the European Parliament, elected by universal suffrage, held a session with President Zelensky, who spoke via video link. It adopted NATOs position, which disregards the Kyiv agreements and considers the Russian special operation against "core nationalists," pursuant to Security Council Resolution 2202, as an "illegal, unprovoked, and unjustified military aggression." It was the Parliament that adopted a resolution (P9_TA(2022)0052) paving the way for the EUs full support of the Zelensky regime, which many member states readily endorsed.

When President Trump and Vice President Vance confronted Zelensky in the Oval Office on February 28, 2025, some governments consulted with one another. A series of back-and-forths took place between Paris and London, both vying to lead a coalition of the willing. Ultimately, only the British remained. London formed a military alliance with the Baltic states (Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, the Netherlands, and Sweden) and added Ukraine on November 5. This constitutes a purely British NATO within NATO.

France, although not a member of this alliance with the United Kingdom, is not lagging behind. But it is now more a matter of posturing than action. On November 17, President Emmanuel Macron signed a letter of intent with his unelected counterpart, Volodymyr Zelensky, stating that, when domestic industry is able, it will build and sell 100 Rafale fighter jets to Ukraine. Then, on November 18, he sent his Chief of the Defence Staff, General Fabien Mandon, to tell the Congress of Mayors of France that the French should prepare to lose their children in an imminent war against Russia.

Volodymyr Zelensky made a panicked phone call to his allies on November 21. Emmanuel Macron, Friedrich Merz and Keir Starmer stressed once again, according to the Elysee Palace, "that all decisions having implications for the interests of Europe and NATO require the joint support and consensus of European partners and NATO allies respectively."

They all met on November 22 in Johannesburg, South Africa, for a meeting of G20 heads of state and government, with the exception of Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. The final declaration contained only one vague sentence on the subject: Guided by the purposes and principles of the UN Charter in its entirety, we will work for a just, comprehensive and lasting peace in Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, the occupied Palestinian territories, Ukraine, as well as to end other conflicts and wars around the world. Such platitudes hardly justify such a meeting. Consequently, the Europeans consulted behind the scenes to develop a counter-proposal.

The European press is simply presenting the Russian-American peace plan as "favorable to Moscow," which is neither the case nor the point. The plan, as far as we know, stipulates that Crimea and the two Donbas republics (Donetsk and Luhansk) are Russian. But this was already the case BEFORE the war. It also stipulates that the rest of Novorossiya will be allocated along the front line. In other words, almost all of the Kherson and Zaporizhzhia oblasts, but not the port of Odessa, which would have allowed Russia to establish territorial contiguity with Transnistria, a candidate for accession to the Russian Federation.

In addition, the plan requires that the Ukrainian army, currently 800,000 strong, be reduced to 600,000 strong, that it renounce long-range missiles capable of striking Moscow (which it does not currently possess. This was the debate over US Tomahawks and German Taurus missiles), and that it renounce NATO membership, but European fighter jets may be stationed in Poland.

From a Russian perspective, the most important thing lies elsewhere: the denazification of the Kyiv regime. This is a fundamental objective of which NATO members have never been aware. Denazification requires an educational program in each country to educate them about the others culture, like the one implemented in France and Germany at the end of World War II.

Moscow is thus achieving what it fought for, but not what it has long hoped for: NATOs withdrawal to its 1991 borders. This will always be a source of conflict. The European Union must be aware of this. It should not be surprised to see this conflict continue.

On the US side, Washington is committed to lifting sanctions against Russia and to readmitting Moscow to the G7/8.

Certainly, President Donald Trump is on the verge of extricating his country from this quagmire. But this is to force the European Union to face its responsibilities.

The reconstruction of Ukraine, estimated at $200 billion, will be split equally between the EU and Russia. Each country will have to contribute $100 billion. The Russian funds will be drawn from the sums frozen during the conflict. These funds will be controlled by the United States, which will receive half of the revenue from these investments.

Finally, if Ukraine renews its commitment not to develop nuclear weapons, the electricity produced by the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant will be allocated half to Ukraine and half to Russia.

The hardest part is being ignored: the European Union (and consequently NATO) will have to acknowledge that these events did not constitute an illegal, unprovoked, and unjustified military aggression, but rather a legitimate application of Security Council Resolution 2202, in accordance with the UN Charter and international law.

A period of introspection is essential. All have contributed to this war, the number of victims of which remains unknown. High-ranking officials in Brussels acted with hubris, EU member states behaved like herd mentality, and the people of Europe convinced themselves that they embodied peace.

It is this realization that seems most crucial and that will bring about the downfall of the regimes that sought and worked to bring Russia to its knees.
WELLINGTON, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- A study reveals some New Zealand wells contain groundwater up to 40,000 years old, raising concerns about sustainability.

New Zealand scientists unveiled a National Groundwater Age Map and tools for sustainable management of hidden groundwater resources, from national through to local scales, a media release of Earth Sciences New Zealand said Friday.

The six-year research program, based on over 1,000 samples, has combined environmental tracers and modelling, with traditional Maori knowledge, to reveal new insights about New Zealand's underground aquifers' age, source, flow and cultural values, it said.

The map reveals the groundwater supplying most of the wells was between one and 100 years old, but some deep wells in Taranaki in the North Island and the Marlborough regions in the South Island contain 40,000-year-old groundwater, the release said.

Wairau in Marlborough had the youngest groundwater -- water there took only two weeks to move through the aquifer system, researchers said.

Groundwater supplies 40 percent of New Zealand's drinking water and over 80 percent of river flows, contributing more than 2 billion New Zealand dollars (1.14 billion U.S. dollars) to New Zealand's primary sector in annual irrigation, according to Earth Sciences New Zealand.

Scientists warned that younger systems can be vulnerable to contamination from live pathogens and nitrate loads, whereas older water faces slow pollutant buildup.

"Knowledge of water age and flow rates is important for managing potential contamination of drinking water," said program co-lead and principal scientist Uwe Morgenstern.

The program has also developed an interactive National Groundwater Model to inform water management decisions, incorporating geology, climate, surface water hydrology, groundwater levels and age to test different scenarios, researchers said. 
Italy's defence minister proposes new voluntary military service with goal of creating a reserve of 10,000 personnel.

Italian defence minister Guido Crosetto on Thursday raised the prospect of a new form of voluntary military service in Italy, citing the need to address potential external threats, including from Russia.

Crosetto said he plans to present a draft bill to the cabinet, and then to parliament, to establish a voluntary state auxiliary military reserve of up to 10,000 personnel to be deployed to specific sectors in the face of war, disasters and crises.

The defence ministry on Friday clarified that Crosetto was not proposing a return to mandatory conscription, known as leva, a system that Italy ended in January 2005.

Under Crosetto's plans, the military reserve would not be constantly active and could be deployed to support the armed forces in "extremely serious cases" but never on the front lines, according to newspaper Corriere della Sera.

The reservists would include retired military personnel and former security guards as well as highly skilled professionals who could provide logistic support, such as retired doctors, engineers or IT experts.

Crosetto's announcement, made in Paris during a meeting with his French counterpart Catherine Vautrin, reopens a debate that recurs regularly in Italy, however this time it appears to be backed up by a concrete plan and follows significant recent moves by France and Germany.

France has launched a new voluntary military national service, more than 25 years after conscription was phased out, in response to growing fears of a confrontation with Russia.

The French programme, set to be introduced next summer, will see young men and women aged between 18 and 19 volunteering for a paid 10 months of military training.

Germany has announced a new military service plan that will mandate all 18-year-old men to compile a questionnaire on their suitability to serve and, from 2027, to undergo medical screening.

Photo credit: Massimo Todaro / Shutterstock.com.
By Rebecca Black, PA

Gardai have issued an appeal for information about the decapitation of a stag in Co Dublin.

The headless body of the stag, which was part of the deer herd at Newbridge Demesne, Donabate, was found on Thursday morning, according to Fingal County Council.

In a statement, the council said the stag had been killed overnight by intruders who had broken into the park.

It was part of the deer herd at Newbridge Demesne, Donabate (Fingal County Council)

The discovery was made when staff went to feed the herd of Irish red deer, they said.

The stag, who was eight years old, was one of two in the herd.

Mayor of Fingal Tom OLeary described the incident as shocking.

Gardai, along with National Parks and Wildlife Service, are investigating the incident is believed to have happened in the early hours of Thursday.

Gardai are appealing to anyone who may have information about this incident to come forward.

They have also asked that anyone who was travelling in the vicinity of Newbridge Demesne between 12am and 2.30am on November 27th to contact the Garda investigation team.

In particular they wish to speak with any person who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) from between 12am and 2.30am on Thursday on the following roads  R126, Cobbes Lane and Turvey Avenue  around Newbridge Demense to make it available to investigating Gardai.

Anyone who observed any activity in the area of the Newbridge Demesne boundary at the time and/or anyone with information is asked to contact Swords Garda Station 01 6664700, the Garda Confidential line 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.
South East On Track issued a statement to Waterford News & Star in which it said the south east region is being left behind, following the recent Government announcement of the Sectoral Investment Plan for Transport.

While SEOT welcomed the fact the plan includes many welcome developments, including the commitment to invest between 500m to 1bn in reactivating the Western Rail Corridor between Athenry and Claremorris, it expressed concern that Waterford was being left behind.

"Since 2000, new rail has been constructed to support development around four of Irelands five cities," said a spokesperson for the organisation.

"Only Waterford and the South East are left behind - having had a reduction in rail infrastructure due to the unnecessary closure of the Wexford-Waterford rail line during the financial crisis in 2010," he added.

"The line has continued to be maintained by Iarnrod Eireann, while its reactivation is backed at European level by the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) and nationally by the Strategic Rail Review."

The spokesperson went on to comment: "Yet, despite this strong policy support, investment for the re-opening of this key rail link has not been secured for the South East, in contrast to the progress achieved in the West where elected representatives successfully championed the restoration of their rail corridor. This highlights a clear imbalance in rail development and future-proofing across the regions."

"It is disappointing that the infrastructure deficit facing the South East and Waterford City will persist for several more years," said the spokesperson.

"We are calling on elected representatives across our region to prioritise the reactivation of the WexfordWaterford rail line and to work together to ensure it is included in future National Development Plan funding," he added.
The pilot who died in a crash landing near Waterford Airport has been identified as a Turkish father of two.

Turkish media identified Bircan Dokuzlar as the pilot who lost his life on Thursday, November 20.

The Vulcanair P68C plane crashed at about 12.50pm at Lisselan while approaching Waterford Airport. It is understood that the aircraft was flying from Sligo to Beziers, France, before experiencing engine trouble 50km off the Irish coast.

A Gofundme page was set up in Turkish, English and German to help raise funds for Mr Dokuzlar's loved ones.

The page states that Mr Dokuzlar had been working in Germany "to support his family".

He was described as an honourable man of integrity who worked tirelessly to support his family.

The post stated: "This sudden and devastating loss has left his family not only in deep grief but also facing the heavy burden of funeral, burial, international transportation, and the many needs the family now faces without him."

As of the time of writing, the fundraiser had received $60,565 CAD from over 600 donations.

The Air Accident Investigation Unit continues to investigate the crash.
MACAO, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- The Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) government has donated 30 million Hong Kong dollars (3.85 million U.S. dollars) through the Macao Foundation to the Hong Kong SAR to support rescue efforts and reconstruction following the severe fire, according to the government information bureau on Friday.

A No. 5 alarm fire broke out at a residential complex in Tai Po on Wednesday afternoon.

Macao Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai conveyed the Macao SAR government's deep condolences to the victims and heartfelt sympathies to the injured, their families, and the affected residents. He also called on all sectors of Macao society to take action and provide assistance to Hong Kong through various means.

After the incident, the Macao Red Cross activated its emergency response mechanism and, on Thursday, donated 500,000 Hong Kong dollars (64,232 U.S. dollars) to the Hong Kong Red Cross. The organization said it will continue to monitor developments and offer additional assistance as needed. 
John Foley, an artist from Waterford City, has received a highly commended prize in the AIB Portrait Prize 2025, with his piece titled 'Biddy Boy'.

His portrait was announced as one of two highly commended works at a ceremony in the Gallery, with the artist receiving a 1,500 prize.

Speaking on his piece, John said: Each year, in mid-Kerry around St Brigids Day, groups known as Biddies travel to homes in the local area carrying a Brideog, performing songs and dances, and bringing good fortune and prosperity to those they visit.

"This tradition is being actively carried forward by the local schools in the area. My portrait of Evan OConnor from Kilgobnet National School was captured as the pupils were preparing for the annual parade through Killorglin which marks the culmination of the festival.

Foley is a Dublin-based documentary photographer, originally from Waterford City.

He has a longstanding interest in rituals, traditions, and shared experiences that create a sense of belonging.

His photography focuses on capturing these moments, traditional and contemporary, pagan and religious. He also highlights how these foster connections and communal celebration.

This curiosity has led him to document what it means to belong, among many different communities.

The overall winner of the prize announced at the ceremony was Daniel Nelis with his work 'Late Spring', a portrait in oil on panel.

Along with a 15,000 prize, Nelis will also receive a 5,000 commission to create a new work for the National Portrait Collection.

Commenting on their selection, the judging panel said: It has been a privilege to serve as the judges for the 2025 AIB Portrait Prize. The standard of submissions was exceptional, reflecting the remarkable creativity and skill of artists working across Ireland today.

"Choosing the final winners was both inspiring and challenging, as the shortlisted works demonstrated such diversity of approach and strength of vision. Congratulations to Daniel Nelis, John Foley and Conor OLeary, to the artists whose work features in this outstanding exhibition, and thanks to all those who submitted work to the competition.

The AIB Portrait Prize exhibition, featuring 26 shortlisted works in total, is now open at the National Gallery of Ireland.

It will run until March 15, 2026 alongside the AIB Young Portrait Prize exhibition of 20 shortlisted portraits.

Both exhibitions will also be showcased in the Regional Cultural Centre, Letterkenny and at the Waterford Gallery of Art from July 18 to October 11, 2026.
Deputies from the South East Region condemned the stalled N24 Waterford to Cahir during a Dail debate.

Tipperary TD Mattie McGrath raised the floundering project this week inside the Dail chamber. The Independent TD said: Only 80,000 was given in 2025 to keep the project alive. It did not keep it alive; it actually wound it down. The councils of Tipperary, Waterford and Kilkenny met last Monday night. They are very anxious that this will go ahead.

Deputy McGrath pointed to the high number of road casualties in the region: The number of fatalities over the decades has been just appalling. Twenty-five percent of all fatalities are on that part of the road, which goes from Foynes Port to Rosslare Europort and on to Waterford Port. It is so important for infrastructure, connectivity, trade, business, tourism and everything.

He later added: The 65 km stretch, which is through Tipperary, is 1% of the county's road network yet accounts for 25% of road fatalities, which the Minister of State will agree is an alarming and unacceptable statistic.

The Deputy for Tipperary South ended: I cannot impress enough how important this is for people living on the route, farming on the route and people who want to get planning permission for anything else. This development must get the green light.

Not tenable

Deputy Michael Murphy (Fine Gael) appealed to the Minister of State to call for swift intervention the Department of Transport, TII and the Minister for Transport. He said: It is not a local issue. It is a bottleneck that is affecting connectivity between Limerick, Tipperary and Waterford and ultimately the functioning of our ports and supply chains. The N24 is a spine linking two major cities yet one half of the corridor moves ahead while the other is left waiting. That is simply not tenable.

Waterford TD Conor McGuinness added his support, alongside Deputy David Cullinane, for the project to move forward to the Detailed Design stage. He said: I know Deputies from Tipperary, Waterford and Kilkenny are supportive of that and working in unison to get the Government to do the right thing by the N24. Deputy Cullinane stated: The only funding that was given from the Government this year was to buy out the contract of the company that actually did the work on the preferred route. There are real concerns that this vital road is now being put on hold.

The Waterford to Limerick road really needs to be improved. Deputy Conor McGuinness and I, and all the Oireachtas Members from across the affected counties, will continue to raise this to ensure that it gets proper funding next year.
Hook Lighthouse - the worlds oldest operational lighthouse - is set to shine brighter than ever this year with a magical festive celebration perfect for the whole family.

Santa Claus himself will be making a very special stop at this historic beacon, to bring joy, cheer and a sprinkle of holiday magic to visitors of all ages.

On December 6, 7, 13 and 14, he will be welcoming little ones for enchanting meet-and-greet sessions from 10am to 4.30pm.

It promises to be a truly exceptional experience as people will have the opportunity to step inside the ancient lighthouse tower to meet Santa, where he will await by a cosy fireplace, ready to listen to Christmas wishes and spread festive cheer.

The lighthouse, which is situated on the Hook Peninsula in County Wexford, overlooks an expansive seascape including the Waterford Estuary.

"Each child will leave with a selection box and a cup of hot chocolate to warm their spirits," said a spokesperson for the lighthouse.

"Its a perfect opportunity for families to create cherished memories in a uniquely atmospheric setting," she added.

Tickets for what promises to be a truly magical experience are 10 per child.

Hook Lighthouse is open every day, until 2pm on December 19, and it will reopen on December 26, to host its famous St. Stephens Day Breakfast from 10am to 1pm - a perfect way to keep the festive spirit glowing with delicious food and warm hospitality.

Daisy Day

A unique St. Stephens Day tradition at the Hook will see the lighthouse facilitate the celebration of Daisy Day, a charming local tradition dating back to 1943, recorded as 'A Penny for a Daisy.'

Historically, large groups of children would search for the first flower of the year and receive pennies for their finds. According to the Hook Lighthouse spokesperson: The child who found the first daisy would win the hunt, but many children would receive pennies from families in the area.

The age old tradition that is Daisy Day will be revived at Hook Lighthouse on New Year's Day from noon to 4pm. Photograph Jimmy Fallon.

This year, the hunt will take place again, with children receiving a chocolate penny for their efforts.

Hook Lighthouse is renowned as the oldest, intact working lighthouse in the world.

Since the 5th century, monks have lit fires there to keep ships safe at sea.

Visitors can take a tour, featuring 115 steps, to the top of the lighthouse tower, with immersive holograms illustrating the rich history of the tower and the Hook area, along with spectacular views of Irelands southern coast.

For more details, visit www.hookheritage.ie
Waterford Sinn Fein TDs Conor McGuinness and David Cullinane have hit out at the Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, over a vague response to a parliamentary question on 24/7 cardiac care at University Hospital Waterford.

Deputies McGuinness and Cullinane said the response showed a lack of urgency and was non-committal.

The Ministers answer once again provides no certainty and no urgency. Phrases like ongoing work and further engagement do nothing for people in Waterford city and county, or the wider South East, who still do not have access to 24/7 cardiac care.

"These delays deepen a real health inequality that people here live with every day.

Successive Fianna Fail and Fine Gael governments have allowed this inequality to persist.

"Their failure to deliver 24/7 cardiac services at UHW is a political failure, not an inevitability.

"Their willingness to allow timelines to drift is a damning indictment of their disinterest in Waterford and the South East. The clinical evidence is clear, the need is clear, and the Governments refusal to act is indefensible, said Deputy McGuinness.

The parliamentary question submitted by Deputy McGuinness sought a start date for 24/7 cardiac care.

The minister announced earlier this year that funding for the service had been provided a recruitment process had begun.

In response to the parliamentary question, the minister said she expected the process to be complete in the coming months.

Deputy Cullinane called this a stock response.

We have seen these stock replies for years. When I raised this months ago, I received the very same evasive, circular response.

There is no credible explanation for the failure to advance this project. Clinicians have backed it, the community has backed it and the case for a full 24/7 service is overwhelming.

Successive governments have let Waterford down on cardiac care, but together Conor and I will continue to stand up for Waterford and the South East.

"Sinn Fein is fully committed to delivering a properly resourced, fully operational 24/7 cardiac care service at UHW  and we will not let this issue drop until it is delivered, said Deputy Cullinane.
Amid a backdrop of rising commercial rates, minimum wage increases and an incoming auto-enrolment pension scheme, local business owners have bemoaned a perceived lack of support from Waterford City and County Council.

The spat reached boiling point in late November as the Waterford Business Group, a group of almost 90 city-centre retailers, publicly condemned councillors for passing a 2026 budget that will see rates rise by 3.5%.

The Kiosk Cafe owner Paul Reid described the increases as just another nail in the coffin for a lot of businesses who are already struggling.

Mr Reid has owned The Kiosk Cafe for 16 years, but believes that it would be impossible to get the same business off the ground in 2025.

I don't think anybody in their right mind would try and open a business here in the current climate, Mr Reid said.

The Kiosk Cafe, located on John Roberts Square. Photo: Alex Cunningham

The type of person we want in our city centre, for me, hasn't improved- the person who's going to come in, do some shopping and have a coffee and then go home.

He cited a lack of public parking, accessibility issues and a dearth of internationally recognised retail offerings as pitfalls for city-centre businesses.

If I had never been in Waterford before, and I came to Waterford for the first time, I wouldn't come back here, because it's like snakes and ladders trying to drive around the town.

While the City Centre Management group remains in place as a forum between local businesses and the council, Mr. Reid said further communication was necessary.

There just seems to be a big disconnect between the council and local businesses.

There needs to be a middle person there as well. For me, we have some other organisations out there who are supposedly in the middlemaybe I shouldn't say this, but weve too many people who like getting their picture in the paper and actually not doing too much.
Lions Club Christmas Carol Concert, December 13, Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity, Barronstrand Street

One of the great traditions of Christmas in Waterford is the annual Waterford Lions Club Christmas Appeal with an aim to help 1,200 families have a better Christmas by providing food hampers throughout the city and its environs.

Along with a host of events, one of the highlights is the Christmas Concert at the Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity at Barronstrand Street; an orchestral and choral event, now in its 36th year, with orchestra leader Eimear Heeney and conductor Kevin OCarroll.

This free concert will take place on December 13th, at 4pm.

Kila Live, December 28, Bank Lane

Bank Lane is thrilled to announce iconic Irish trad-fusion vanguards Kila are returning to Waterford this December.

Dublin octet Kila have been vanguards of trad-fusion since they began in 1987.

They've performed at Jazz, Rock, Celtic and World Music festivals in 35 countries on five continents.

Theyve released 20 CDs, co-composed music for three Oscar-nominated animated films and composed Emmy-nominated, IFTA and Greison-winning scores.

They formed in Colaiste Eoin - a school famed for musicians such as Davy Spillane, (Moving Hearts), Liam O Maonlai and Fiachna O Braonain (Hothouse Flowers), Cormac Breathnach (Deiseal), Colm Mac Con Iomaire and Dave Odlum (The Frames).

Tickets available at banklane.ie

Danny OReilly Live, January 2, Theatre Royal

Continuing his annual series of solo performances, The Coronas frontman, Danny OReilly brings his intimate acoustic show to Waterfords Theatre Royal on Friday, January 2, 2026.

After another packed year of touring across the world, expect stripped-back versions of songs from The Coronas back catalogue up close and personal.

Tickets available at theatreroyal.ie

Other Worlds, February 19, Garter Lane Theatre

'Other Worlds', by Jess Rowell Dance is an immersive dance and live music performance designed specifically for teenagers with additional needs. This production features a cast of disabled and non-disabled dancers accompanied by a live musician.

Courageous characters, intriguing instruments, spectacular sights, scents, and textures weave together to create an unforgettable sensory-rich, theatrical experience.

Tickets available at garterlane.ie
Advertisement

BusinessThe economyCarbon pricing Opinion The Coalition is no friend of the environment. Neither are carbon credits Millie Muroi Economics Writer November 28, 2025  8:00am

November 28, 2025  8:00am 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 66 View all comments

Theres a fatal flaw in the idea that we can offset  or balance out  carbon emissions. As we know, greenhouse gases (the most famous one being the colourless gas known as carbon dioxide) are key catalysts for climate change. Most of the Coalition seems stuck in the ice age, perhaps thinking they can thaw themselves out of electoral irrelevancy by keeping coal power plants running  even if it means taking the rather non-Liberal stance of using taxpayer money to prop them all up. Carbon credits can be useful in a handful of cases, but can also hinder our efforts at combating climate change. Matt Davidson But theres generally agreement that we need to strive towards achieving the global temperature targets set out in the Paris climate agreement. That means big cuts in emissions  largely through the quick phasing-out of fossil fuels.

Advertisement

As ANU professor of environmental law and policy Andrew Macintosh points out in a recent paper, a lot of things stand in the way of that. But one of the sneakiest? Carbon offsets. Companies, countries or individuals can buy carbon credits to compensate for what theyre emitting and therefore, on paper, balance out their emissions. Typically, one credit compensates for one tonne of carbon  or the equivalent amount of any other greenhouse gas that leads to the same amount of warming. In Australia, under whats called the safeguard mechanism, some of the countrys biggest industrial facilities  including those used for mining, oil and gas production, manufacturing, transport and waste facilities  are forced to comply with a cap on the amount of greenhouse gases they are allowed to emit. If they emit more than they are allowed, they can buy carbon credits to make up for it. These credits are supplied by projects  such as renewable energy projects, reforestation or conservation efforts  that claim to reduce emissions, either by avoiding emissions or removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. So when a big emitter buys a carbon credit, they are essentially funding and incentivising projects that reduce or remove greenhouse gas emissions. Sounds reasonable, right?

Advertisement

Well, there are several challenges and shortcomings. First, its difficult to make sure offsets actually represent real emissions reductions rather than the benefits that just exist on paper. The hypothetical nature of many of the calculations means people can manipulate or overestimate the emissions they have saved to generate more credits. Whats also tricky is making sure that the emissions reductions from the clean projects wouldnt have happened without the extra incentive offered through selling carbon credits: perhaps a clean project would have gone ahead anyway, even without the additional incentive, meaning the money from the credit could have gone to a use where it would actually make a difference. The problem is that in many cases, only project leaders and developers  who are clearly keen to receive the money from carbon credits  really know whether their projects are dependent on money from carbon credits, making it hard for the people assessing these projects to select the ones truly dependent on the money to go ahead. Then, theres the need to make sure projects claiming to capture and store carbon dioxide do so and lock it away permanently rather than releasing it all back into the atmosphere later.

Advertisement

Some methods of capturing and storing carbon such as carbon sinks  natural or artificial reservoirs that absorb more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere than they release  can also be susceptible to natural disasters, making it difficult to guarantee the carbon will not be released back into the air in the near future. Carbon stored in trees, for example, may be released when there is a wildfire. Heavy emitters use carbon credits in great numbers and traders look to profit from that trade. Krisztian Bocsi Most offset schemes also only require these carbon sinks to be maintained for 40 years or less. But because carbon dioxide emissions take thousands of years to be reabsorbed by the Earth, carbon removed from the atmosphere needs to be locked away for a similar amount of time to really have an impact. Macintosh says most carbon offset schemes fail at least one of these requirements. A 2024 study of 2300 offset projects, for example, found that less than 16 per cent reduced emissions as much as the developers claimed.

Advertisement

Because of this, offsets can enable companies and countries to claim they have reduced emissions, when in reality, they havent. Related Article Updated

Climate crisis Bill Gates says climate change wont lead to humanitys demise Thats not to say all carbon credit purchases are made with bad intentions. And some schemes do meet all the requirements, meaning they can play a meaningful role in the climate transition. This is especially the case if a country cannot keep the lights on while building the infrastructure necessary to transition towards a cleaner economy and meet net zero targets. Of course, the availability of offsets can also delay big emitters from making the changes they need to, giving them a way to continue polluting as usual, slowing down the process of phasing-out fossil fuels. But the measurement of emissions and how much carbon is stored in certain places is also challenging and prone to error.

Advertisement

For example, carbon stored in soil can vary a lot across landscapes and over time, meaning its often hard to pinpoint exactly how much carbon emissions a project is saving. Of course, that doesnt mean we shouldnt try, but its worth keeping in mind. Theres also the issue of incentives not being aligned. In most markets, customers can identify low-quality goods and services reasonably easily, meaning they can seek a fix or choose better products when standards arent being met. Things like air pollution, more frequent natural disasters and a warmer climate are hard to put a price on, but are costs we all pay. But given the complexity and lack of transparency when it comes to carbon offsets, its incredibly difficult for buyers (the companies wanting to offset their emissions) to make informed decisions about the quality of most credits. Most also simply dont care: its in their interest to buy credits at the lowest possible cost.

Advertisement

The problem with low-quality carbon credits is that they distort the price put on carbon. They essentially reduce the cost paid by polluters who can simply buy cheap, ineffective credits that do not actually reflect  or offset  the volume of greenhouse gases they are emitting. Related Article Opinion

Climate policy Every coal and gas approval tarnishes Labors climate legacy Carmen Lawrence Academic, former WA premier The reason we need a higher price on carbon  whether through offsets or a carbon tax  is because many processes that release carbon come with a negative externality: costs that are paid by people not directly involved in producing or consuming the final product or service. Things like air pollution, more frequent natural disasters and a warmer climate are hard to put a price on, but are costs we all pay  even if it wasnt our choice to buy or make the product that contributed to emissions. Since prices and costs shape peoples decisions, including those of big emitters, a higher price on carbon more accurately reflects the true cost of emissions and incentivises businesses and countries to find ways to reduce them. Low-quality carbon credits, including many government-approved offsets such as Australian Carbon Credit Units (ACCU), end up pushing down the price paid by large emitters. Carbon prices need to be above the minimum level of about $90 per tonne to keep warming well below 2 degrees, but since the middle of 2022, ACCU prices have fluctuated between $26 and $43 per tonne, weakening the incentive for facilities to cut emissions.

Advertisement

The other problem with low carbon prices is that they tend to drive out the more effective offset projects. Why? Because they need carbon credits to be sold at a higher price to be able to make a reasonable return and for the project to go ahead. The more effective solution is to require emitters to pay a certain amount to the government when theyre unable to meet their emission-reduction obligations. Its a more transparent system, sends a stronger message to industry, and generates tax revenue for government programs aimed at reaching our climate goals. Offsets are not necessarily useless and can play a small role in a limited number of cases. But if we cosy up to them too much, we might find ourselves  and our climate  overheating. Ross Gittins unpacks the economy in an exclusive subscriber-only newsletter. Sign up to receive it every Tuesday evening.
Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share

After speaking out, something inside me broke and was freed at the same time. Healing does not mean forgetting. It means learning to live with what happened without letting it define me, says Xiomara. Australian humanitarian photographer Ben Adams recently documented life in two of the worlds most challenging places to be a woman  Peru and Uganda. In the central highlands of Peru, he is sitting in 20-year-old Xiomaras kitchen, taking photos of her doing what she loves most: cooking. My dream is to study gastronomy, she says. But I also dream of something bigger: combining cooking with psychology. Because for me, cooking is therapy. And I want others to find comfort in a dish made with love. Xiomara was only eight when a family member began abusing her. In rural Peruvian communities, families dont often report crimes of family abuse to the police, guided by cultural pressure to protect their reputations. The result is that Xiomara and other girls are left to bear the trauma on their own. For me, cooking is therapy. And I want others to find comfort in a dish made with love, said Xiomara, a survivor of sexual abuse pictured in her kitchen in Huanuco, Peru. Ben Adams November 25, International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, marked the launch of the UNiTE campaign: an initiative of 16 days of activism concluding on International Human Rights Day on December 10. The 2025 campaign, UNiTE to End Digital Violence against Women and Girls, wants to mobilise governments to end impunity through laws that penalise it; technology companies to ensure the safety of platforms and remove harmful content; donors to provide funding so that feminist organisations can work to eradicate violence; and people to raise their voices to help survivors.

Advertisement

When the justice system fails Around the world, one in three women and children experience violence and abuse. People in poverty are particularly vulnerable. When a man assaults his wife or partner, its seen as a family matter that is to be handled inside the home, instead of being reported to authorities. Sexual violence against children is frequent: according to UNICEF, one in five girls is sexually abused in their lifetime, half before their 16th birthday. In many countries, courts are ill-equipped to handle these cases, leaving victims to fend for themselves and perpetrators effectively living outside the law. In Peru, cultural norms collide with a justice system that is underfunded, fragmented and largely inaccessible. In parts of the Amazon, families wait days for police to arrive. In Ucayali, UNICEF reports that one in three teens have experienced sexual violence. For Xiomara, years of silence and trauma led to deep depression, but one afternoon in 2023, hope arrived through Doris Godoy, a psychologist at Paz y Esperanza, a partner organisation of International Justice Mission. IJM is one of the worlds largest anti-slavery organisations. It has an office in Sydney. IJM works closely with local social workers, lawyers, psychologists, government agencies and police around the world to provide aftercare to survivors and to strengthen justice systems so they deter perpetrators and protect victims. Doris Godoy, a psychologist at Paz y Esperanza (Peace and Hope) in Huanuco, Peru, walks to Xiomaras home to visit her and her family. Ben Adams

Advertisement

A survivor movement rising in Peru Amid this crisis, change is emerging. Supported by IJM and Paz y Esperanza, Xiomara is now a leader and advocate in the Huanuco chapter of Perus national survivor network, Free to Serve, part of IJMs wider Global Survivor Network (GSN). I felt, for the first time, that I was not alone, Xiomara says. Listening to other women, watching them stand tall and share their stories with dignity, gave me courage. Through these GSN groups, women share their lived experiences to influence government and advocate for reform. Xiomara recalls her first government forum earlier this year. It was my first time in a decision-making space, where voices like mine are finally being heard by local authorities, she says. In 2024, IJM and its partner Kids Alive launched another GSN chapter, this time in Pucallpa. What began with small activities, such as baking workshops, became opportunities for survivors to talk about their lived experiences. Women travel miles by moto-taxi or on foot to attend meetings, their journeys a testament to their determination to rebuild their lives. We support each other like walking sticks. Today Ill be your walking stick, so tomorrow, you can be mine. Xiomara

Advertisement

Girls have experienced violence at the hands of their own families  fathers, uncles, cousins, Godoy says. But when I see them start pursuing their dreams  finishing school, applying to university  I can see hope for a future many people dont believe in. In August 2024, the Pucallpa group defined its mission: to promote a life free of violence and to create a safe, accessible environment where every woman is valued. Part of its goal is to break the cycles of impunity and stigma that coincide with sexual violence against women and girls. A few months later, they performed in the streets of Pucallpa, letting dance be their outcry and a challenge to the community to urgently confront the crisis. Xiomara, like so many, has found a lifeline in Perus survivor network. The group helps each of us become stronger. We support each other like walking sticks. Today Ill be your walking stick, so tomorrow, you can be mine, she says. Justice can give more than freedoms. When justice exists, it restores hope. IJM staff member Jackelin Castillo with partners from Kids Alive and members of the survivor network in Pucallpa, Peru. Photo: Ben Adams Members of the Mukunyu Women Survivor Network in Kasese, Uganda. Photo: Ben Adams A parallel crisis across the ocean Nearly 12,000 kilometres away, in Uganda, survivors are leading movements of their own.

Advertisement

Beneath the trees of rural Kasese, the women of the Mukunyu Survivor Network dance as Adams photographs them. Babies rest on the womens backs, the womens skirts sweep the dust, and laughter rises through the branches overhead. They move together as one, a sisterhood shaped by resilience that has grown into an unmistakable joy. It is only when you remember what they have survived that the full weight of the moment settles in, the immense darkness they have walked through to reach this light. Among them is Biira Jetrace, a survivor whose resilience echoes Xiomaras. I got pregnant when I was still a child myself, she says. I saw my mother being tortured in front of me. I dont want other women to pass through what my mother and I passed through. Today, she leads a survivor group in the Kasese district. I never knew then how to speak up, but because of IJM, they have trained me through the power of story. Together, the women host house meetings, one-on-one conversations and community gatherings. We are doing it together; we want to see the families happy, Jetrace says. People are reporting now. They are no longer keeping quiet. Survivor leader Biira Jetrace in Kasese, Uganda. Photo: Ben Adams Jetrace says healing happens through these survivor network meetings, as well as through the physical movement of dancing side by side. When we dance, sometimes we forget what is hitting us behind. We are in our new life. We are now free from violence, she says.

Advertisement
Australians have paid billions of dollars for petrol sourced from Russian oil  despite sanctions against Vladimir Putins regime. Weve now managed to track exactly how its getting here.

Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share

Blood oil: A new series by the Herald and The Age. See all stories .

Advertisement

Australian leaders from all sides expressed outrage at the invasion. The Liberal government condemned Russian President Vladimir Putin for his actions. When Anthony Albanese became Prime Minister in May 2022, one of his first overseas visits was to Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine. Albanese pledged military and humanitarian aid to help Ukraine defend its territory. Loading Australia has supplied Bushmaster armoured vehicles, artillery and Abrams tanks. The total assistance has been worth $1.5 billion over more than three years. In 2023, Australia sanctioned the two biggest Russian oil exporters, Lukoil and Rosneft. The United States, the European Union and the United Kingdom all imposed sanctions on Russia and tried to drive down the price of Russian oil in the hope of limiting the profits for Moscow. US President Joe Biden, in office from January 2021 to January 2025, promised to toughen the sanctions and do more to stop the oil trade.

Advertisement

Loading This was not enough to stop the lucrative trade. Russia is using a shadow fleet of ships to evade sanctions, but Western governments have identified many of these and have sanctioned the owners. How Russia operates its shadow fleet of ships Some of the Russian oil can be transferred between ships in international waters, in an attempt to disguise its origin. The key destinations include India, China and Malaysia because these countries have not joined the US, the UK, the EU and countries like Australia in banning Russian oil. Refineries can generate big profits from this trade. They can buy crude oil from Russia at lower prices than the market average, and use this to produce diesel and petrol to be sold at market prices.

Advertisement

Russian oil, often known as Urals crude, is cheaper than standard market supplies like Brent crude. But international agencies track the ships  and public data reveals the journeys. That means independent analysts can see where Russia exports the oil and who is using it to supply the Australian market. We can see how much of this oil ends up as petrol and diesel at our petrol stations. Our investigation drew on detailed data from the CREA, showing a list of the ships heading from Russian ports to refineries in our region.

Advertisement

One of the major Russian supply ports is Novorossiysk, on the Black Sea. Ships can take this oil into the Mediterranean and through the Suez Canal to India. Another major port is Primorsk, near St Petersburg. Ships carry this oil through the Baltic and into the Atlantic Ocean, reaching destinations including India. A third major source is Nakhodka, near Vladivostok, on the Pacific Ocean. Ships mostly take this oil to Chinese refineries, but the CREA analysis also shows that some of the ships go to India. A fourth supply port, Vanino, is near the island of Sakhalin, also on Russias Pacific coast. Several ships from this port have taken crude oil to Malaysia, according to the CREA analysis. The laundry ports The Jamnagar refinery has been described as one of the most profitable in the world. Bloomberg

Advertisement
People are pictured outside the emergency unit of al-Mouwasat Hospital, where casualties from Israeli airstrikes on the nearby town of Beit Jinn have been admitted, in Damascus, Syria, Nov. 28, 2025. Israeli airstrikes early Friday killed at least 10 people, including women and children, in the town of Beit Jinn in the southwestern countryside of Damascus, following reported clashes between Israeli troops and local residents, Syrian state media said. (Photo by Monsef Memari/Xinhua)

DAMASCUS, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Israeli airstrikes early Friday killed at least 10 people, including women and children, in the town of Beit Jinn in the southwestern countryside of Damascus, following reported clashes between Israeli troops and local residents, Syrian state media said.

Syrian state-run Al-Ekhbariya TV reported that several others remained trapped under the rubble as rescue efforts were hampered by continued Israeli drone activity over the area.

The broadcaster said the strikes were carried out shortly after an Israeli military patrol reportedly entered Beit Jinn and was surrounded by local residents, leading to an exchange of fire before the patrol withdrew and air raids intensified.

Citing medical sources, Al-Ekhbariya said the body of a woman arrived at Al-Mouwasat Hospital in Damascus, along with 11 wounded, including a woman and a child, suffering injuries ranging from moderate to severe.

The channel also reported a wave of displacement, with dozens of families fleeing Beit Jinn toward nearby towns and villages deemed safer, amid continued drone flights along the road between Beit Jinn and Mazraat Beit Jinn.

Meanwhile, the Syrian Civil Defense said on its official Telegram channel that its teams had been unable to enter the town to evacuate the wounded or assess the damage due to the danger posed by unexploded ordnance and ongoing Israeli targeting of movement around the town's entrances. It warned that the obstruction of rescue efforts was putting the lives of civilians at further risk.

Earlier reports said Israeli forces had withdrawn from the town and taken positions on Bat al-Warda hill on its outskirts.

No official figures have yet been released regarding the total casualties or extent of the destruction. 

A girl injured in an Israeli airstrike receives medical treatment at al-Mouwasat Hospital in Damascus, Syria, Nov. 28, 2025. Israeli airstrikes early Friday killed at least 10 people, including women and children, in the town of Beit Jinn in the southwestern countryside of Damascus, following reported clashes between Israeli troops and local residents, Syrian state media said. (Photo by Monsef Memari/Xinhua)

A man wounded in Israeli airstrikes rests on a stretcher at al-Mouwasat Hospital in Damascus, Syria, Nov. 28, 2025. Israeli airstrikes early Friday killed at least 10 people, including women and children, in the town of Beit Jinn in the southwestern countryside of Damascus, following reported clashes between Israeli troops and local residents, Syrian state media said. (Photo by Monsef Memari/Xinhua)
The X8086 China-Europe freight train waits for departure at the Chengdu International Railway Port in Chengdu, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Nov. 28, 2025. As the X8086 train departed from Chengdu on Friday, the total number of China-Europe freight train trips has surpassed 120,000, with the total value of goods transported exceeding 490 billion U.S. dollars. (Xinhua/Wang Xi)

BEIJING, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- China-Europe freight trains have made a cumulative 120,000 trips and transported goods with a total value exceeding 490 billion U.S. dollars, the China State Railway Group Co., Ltd. (China Railway) said on Friday.

The 120,000-trip milestone was achieved with the departure of a freight train on Friday from Chengdu, capital of southwest China's Sichuan Province, heading to Poland, according to China Railway, China's railway operator.

To date, the types of goods transported by China-Europe freight trains have expanded to 53 categories that cover 50,000 kinds of products. High value-added goods such as automobiles, auto parts, mechanical equipment, and electronic and electrical products, are the main exported goods transported via these trains.

As a flagship project and a landmark brand of the Belt and Road Initiative, the China-Europe freight train service has established a comprehensive logistics network across Eurasia.

Currently, these trains reach 232 cities in 26 European countries. 

An aerial drone photo taken on Nov. 28, 2025 shows the X8086 China-Europe freight train departing from the Chengdu International Railway Port in Chengdu, southwest China's Sichuan Province. As the X8086 train departed from Chengdu on Friday, the total number of China-Europe freight train trips has surpassed 120,000, with the total value of goods transported exceeding 490 billion U.S. dollars. (Xinhua/Wang Xi)

An aerial drone photo taken on Nov. 28, 2025 shows the X8086 China-Europe freight train departing from the Chengdu International Railway Port in Chengdu, southwest China's Sichuan Province. As the X8086 train departed from Chengdu on Friday, the total number of China-Europe freight train trips has surpassed 120,000, with the total value of goods transported exceeding 490 billion U.S. dollars. (Xinhua/Wang Xi)

The X8086 China-Europe freight train pulls out of the Chengdu International Railway Port in Chengdu, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Nov. 28, 2025. As the X8086 train departed from Chengdu on Friday, the total number of China-Europe freight train trips has surpassed 120,000, with the total value of goods transported exceeding 490 billion U.S. dollars. (Xinhua/Wang Xi)

The X8086 China-Europe freight train pulls out of the Chengdu International Railway Port in Chengdu, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Nov. 28, 2025. As the X8086 train departed from Chengdu on Friday, the total number of China-Europe freight train trips has surpassed 120,000, with the total value of goods transported exceeding 490 billion U.S. dollars. (Xinhua/Wang Xi)
A capacity crowd of over 400 people attended at the TF Royal Theatre in Castlebar last week for the official launch of the Sunflower Childrens Hospice Mayo.

Special guest, Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, confirmed that a site in the county town has been selected for the facility, which should be up and running by 2028.

A line-up of guest speakers took to the stage to celebrate the big news of the first ever hospice dedicated to children being set up outside of Dublin, during an hour-long presentation that included a video of a Mayo family who lost a child to a terminal illness as well as a video virtual tour of the planned state-of-the-art facility by ONeill OMalley architects. Proceedings came to an end with a solo violin performance of a new theme tune for the Sunflower Hospice, created by one of Irelands best known composers, Odhran O Caisaide.

Mayo Roscommon Hospice (MRH) is funding the new childrens hospice and its CEO Martina Jennings paid special tribute to Minister Dara Calleary at the launch, saying the securing of the childrens hospice in Castlebar could never have happened without him.

Ms Jennings stressed how vital such a facility is for the West of Ireland, stating there are at least 90 families in Mayo and Roscommon alone in need of support for children and young adults with life-limiting illnesses.

This will be more than a building, it will also be a home and place families can find light in, even in their darkest moments.

Welcoming the official seal of approval for the project, Ms Jennings outlined that estimated costs for the facility stand at 14 million, with almost 7 million already raised by Mayo Roscommon Hospice.

Officially launching the next phase of the fundraising drive to cover the full cost, she paid tribute to the wonderful Mayo community that had helped build Mayo Roscommon Hospice and said she knew she could count on their support in this worthy new venture for the families and their children in need.

A video then shown to the capacity crowd featured the sad journey of parents Chuck and Mairead Dunford as they detailed trips over and back to Dublin made with their terminally ill son Kevin, who died at the age of eight back in 2014. Outlining the despair the family often felt at not being able to avail of palliative care closer to home, Mr Dunford said: Palliative care is something that strikes fear in people when they hear of it, but it is actually a wonderful thing and this childrens hospice will make a huge difference to families here."

The Dunford family received a standing ovation, led by the Minister for Health who said: The Sunflower Hospice will be the first hospice outside of Dublin for children and will make a really important contribution to the community and to families across Mayo and the whole region. No family wants to be on this journey of having a child with a terminal illness, but at least with this it will be a journey closer to home.

The minister praised Mayo Roscommon Hospice and the HSE for working together on the project and also welcomed the cross-party support from local public representatives and Oireachtas members.

At a press conference after the launch, the minister was asked why local fundraising and not government is required to raise the 7 million costs. She replied that the budget disbursement in the Department of Health revolved around a constant question as to how best to distribute the available resources, adding: There is currently an ask for major capital development in Mayo University Hospital; were building 75 new beds in Ballina and staffing the local injury unit.

"I would love to have the money to do absolutely everything everywhere but I have a finite amount to distribute as best I can.

She added that there had always been really good collaboration in the health service with local communities and that this was a way to "amplify" what each other can do.

We have seen that work with Mayo Roscommon Hospice so well and the staffing for the childrens hospice will of course be state staffing of public servants for this facility, as is already the case at Mayo Roscommon Hospice.

Telling those gathered how thrilled she was to be in Castlebar on such an emotional day for the important milestone of launching the next phase of fundraising for the new hospice, she thanked all partners to the venture for all their work to date, including Mayo County Council, the HSE, the Department of Health, public representatives, and the community who have done so much already to support Mayo Roscommon Hospice.
The homely and inviting Rock Rose House in Castlebar welcomed a special guest last Monday, November 17th, when Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, made the headquarters of Mayo Cancer Support her final stop on a tour of health facilities in Mayo.

The minister remarked on the lovely sense of peace and welcome she felt upon entering the building, which is located across from Mayo University Hospital and is lovingly designed to provide a home from home for cancer patients and their families.

Such was the relaxing effect that as soon as the Rocks n Roses choir launched into their welcoming song for the minister, she herself joined the choir, joyously led by Louise Rodgers to sing out the comforting words and melody of Ill give you a daisy, which went on for verse after verse as the heavy entourage of health department personnel alongside a bevvy of local public representatives and Oireachtas members tucked into yet another round of generous refreshments.

It wasnt all just sunshine and light though as Mayo Cancer Support CEO Orla Gillespie told the packed gathering how appreciative the service is of recent funding announcements rubber-stamped by the minister, that are set to make an invaluable contribution to operational costs.

Speaking to the Western People, Ms Gillespie described the Minister's visit as "the icing on the cake for a really significant few years for our organisation in achieving key objectives".

"We welcome in particular the ministers praise around the alliance of community cancer support centres.

The ministers recent commitment to annual funding towards the operational costs of community cancer support centres such as Rock Rose House has made a huge difference and has taken us from having to fundraise 90% of our annual costs down to 50%. It is also an annual funding commitment whereas previously it was a one-off support under former Health Minister Stephen Donnelly, who had advised us not to come back again looking for more.

Undeterred, Rock Rose House appealed for further funding, going on to achieve this latest commitment of annual monies.

This is agreed and written in stone now going forward as an allocation to each centre. It just means so much and takes such a lot of pressure off our day-to-day service operations, so today was a fantastic opportunity to thank the minister and we look forward to continuing working with her and the Department of Health to recognise us as an important part of the pathway for cancer patients in Mayo.

Even in the absence of government funding, Rock Rose House has for many years been helping Mayo cancer patients through their own fundraising efforts.

We have already been working in tandem with health services and taking some of the pressure off, but it was good to be able to highlight to the minister how difficult it is to provide our services without resources. For example, transport to treatments is a really distressing issue and more often than not, we cannot signpost clients to a suitable service, because while there are some, their use and availability is highly governed.

Not missing any opportunity, during the visit Ms Gillespie asked Minister Carroll MacNeill if there was anything she could do to step up and help fill this particular gap for cancer patients and was rewarded when the minister told her she recognised it was an issue, going on to reveal that some research and assessments are currently in hand with a view to addressing the transport offering.

Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill and local Government representatives joined Mayo Cancer Support Associations CEO and Chairperson to discuss the charitys ambitious Strategic Development Plan (2025-2029). Included are: Senator Mark Duffy, Minister Alan Dillon, Orla Gillespie, Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, Joan Fitzgerald, Minister Dara Calleary and Deputy Keira Keogh TD.

Ms Gillespie additionally used the visit to showcase to the minister the centres new Strategic Development Plan for 2025-2029, which sets out the vision for organisation as it cements its permanency in the cancer support services offering in the county.

As to Minister Carroll MacNeills comments on the sense of peace and homeliness at Rock Rose House, Ms Gillespie stated: Part of our remit is that people dont feel they are going into another clinical, medical space when they come here. We make a real effort to cultivate a safe space and it is no accident that the front room is just like a cosy sitting room.

Allowing no room for complacency however, she insists that fundraising all the way will be an ongoing feature of Mayo Cancer Support, as it has big plans to grow and increase its offering for an incremental clientele requiring its services.

We can make as many plans as we like but cannot implement anything without funding," said Ms Gillespie. "We are still heavily dependent on funding to implement our five-year plan, so yes, we will be continuing our fundraising efforts. Our recent abseiling event in Croke Park proved phenomenally successful and there is more to come. We have big plans and have already had architects look at our existing site here on St Patricks Avenue to see what can be done.

"We are very emotionally attached to Rock House House and its strategic location, right across from Mayo University Hospital, and we have very strong footfall from that. People often come across the road here straight away when they get bad news, so we want to expand our footprint to be able to offer even more support services to cancer patients into the future.
One of Irelands best-loved entertainers, Michael English, is bringing his much-acclaimed church concert tour to St Patricks Church, Gurteen on Sunday, December 7th, at 8pm, as part of his powerful and uplifting show, 'An Evening of Faith, Hope and Inspiration'.

Over the past four years, Michael has poured his heart into creating a truly unforgettable church concert experience. With a string of sold-out performances across the country, hes delighted to now bring the show to Gurteen where fans can expect a heartwarming and inspiring night of music.

The concert will feature a beautiful blend of hymns, well-known inspirational songs, and some of Michaels own most-loved compositions, with plenty of moments for the audience to sing along.

Previous church concerts have been met with rave reviews and standing ovations, and this performance promises to be no different  a night of joy, reflection, and uplifting music for all ages.

A night not to be missed. Tickets available now from Coleman Music Centre, Gurteen, Co Sligo (F56 TF88) or call 071-9182599 or online at www.colemanirishmusic.com.
A new exhibition of paintings by renowned artist Martin Gale was opened at Claremorris Gallery last Saturday by former Taoiseach Enda Kenny.

Born in Worcester, England in 1949, Martin Gale is a distinguished Irish painter whose work probes the interplay between humans, animals, and the contemporary Irish landscape with a quietly unsettling realism. He studied at the National College of Art and Design in Dublin (19681973), and shortly afterwards held his first solo show in the Neptune Gallery. In 1980, he represented Ireland at the XI Biennale de Paris, and two years later he was elected to Aosdana, the association honouring outstanding Irish artists. In 1996, he became a full member of the Royal Hibernian Academy (RHA), and in 2013 he was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Fine Arts by NUI Maynooth.

His work has been the subject of a major retrospective at the RHA Gallagher Gallery which later travelled to the Ulster Museum, and his paintings feature in leading public and private collections, including the Irish Museum of Modern Art and the National Gallery of Ireland. Most recently, at the 195th RHA Annual Exhibition (Summer 2025), Gale won the Hanley Energy Sustainability Excellence Award for his landscape painting, The Return (Re-wilding), highlighting both his continued relevance and his commitment to themes of nature, renewal, and place.

The connection between Martin Gale and Enda Kenny began with a small painting presented to Mr Kenny by the National University of Ireland, Galway Foundation. Some time after receiving the work, and following his retirement from politics, Mr Kenny contacted Gale to learn more about the piece. This initiated a friendly exchange of emails that continued over time, though plans to meet in person were later postponed due to the onset of Covid. With Claremorris Gallery having sparked their original connection, Gallery Director Rosemarie Noone felt that the former Taoiseach was the natural choice to open the exhibition.

In this exhibition, In the Land, Martin Gale continues his quietly arresting exploration of the Irish landscape - its myths, its tensions, and the strange beauty that flickers at the edges of the everyday. These paintings bring together an unexpected cast of motifs: wolves appearing at dusk, circus tents pitched incongruously in open fields, and the looping doughnut rings carved into empty beaches by little boy racers. Each image seems at once familiar and uncanny, rooted in real places yet touched by something dreamlike and unsettling.

This painting, entitled 'Traveller', is part of the exhibition.

Gales wolves move through the landscape with a sense of wary sovereignty. They act as both symbols and intruders, hinting at the return of something wild and ungovernable beneath the surface of rural life. The circus tents, meanwhile, introduce a more overt theatricality - bright, temporary structures poised against vast, unpeopled horizons. They suggest spectacle and escape, but also fragility, as though the show might evaporate at any moment, leaving only the wind.

In contrast, the doughnut rings - those looping marks left by night-time joyrides - carry a peculiarly human presence without ever showing a figure. They speak to bravado, boredom, and the small rebellions that animate otherwise quiet places. Gale paints them not as mere vandalism but as fleeting signatures, the evidence of lives lived at the margins.

Across all these works, Gale maintains his characteristic precision: crisp light, deep shadows, and a meticulous attention to surface. But beneath this clarity lies ambiguity -a sense that something is about to happen, or has just happened, unseen. The result is a landscape that feels alive with stories, both whispered and unresolved.

This exhibition invites viewers to dwell in that in-between space: where the ordinary becomes strange, where the rural becomes symbolic, and where the world we think we know reveals its deeper, more mysterious layers.

In the Land will be on display at Claremorris Gallery until December 13th. The gallery opening hours are from 1 to 6pm, Wednesday to Saturday, or by appointment, text 087-7912337.
Caviar products are pictured in Linqu County, east China's Shandong Province, Oct. 28, 2025. (Xinhua)

JINAN, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- When Perrine Attard from the French foie gras organization CIFOG stepped into a processing plant of Shandong Chunguan Food Co., Ltd. in Linqu County, east China's Shandong Province, she could not hide her surprise.

"Who would have thought the Landes goose, native to southwestern France, would help build an industrial cluster worth 8 billion yuan (about 1.13 billion U.S. dollars) in the East?" Attard said, pointing to a map that shows the company's global market footprint.

Attard made the remarks during a technical exchange visit to Linqu earlier this month. Over the past four decades, Linqu has established a complete industrial chain integrating breeding, raising, processing and marketing since the first batch of Landes geese arrived in the county in the 1980s.

It was among the first places in China to introduce the French specialty breed. The county now produces 5 million Landes geese annually, generating more than 5,000 tonnes of foie gras, accounting for 70 percent of China's domestic market and one-fifth of the world's foie gras supply.

Local companies have built modern breeding bases equipped with standardized feeding workshops and centralized epidemic-prevention systems. With foie gras production now standardized and its quality stable and controllable, enterprises have gained greater confidence in expanding into high-end markets.

Yet Linqu's story does not end with foie gras. The county is quietly carving a name for itself in another arena: caviar.

At the processing workshop of Linqu Haorun Freshwater Fish Breeding Co., Ltd. in Weifang, Shandong, each box of caviar passes through 16 precise steps within a 15-minute "golden window" before cold storage. Behind the clock lies a far longer journey: a female sturgeon typically takes eight years to mature, reach over 25 kilograms, and produce roe, said Xu Jian, head of the company.

For Xu, anticipation for each plump, gleaming box of caviar has been building for far longer than the few minutes it takes to process it.

His farm, fed by waters of Laolongwan, one of China's 72 famous springs with water temperature maintaining around 18 degrees Celsius year-round, nurtures over 5,000 egg-bearing sturgeons.

Demand for caviar has been steadily rising in China and abroad, said Wei Shujuan, director of the agricultural and rural affairs bureau of Linqu County. Farmers such as Xu, she added, have been improving their skills in fry rearing and deep processing. "Our current breeding volume can stably supply 600 tonnes of sturgeon with eggs each year and produce 80 tonnes of caviar."

In recent years, local officials have been promoting a tripartite collaboration among businesses, cooperatives and farmers to build a more integrated and advanced cold-water fish industry.

"Back in 2008, we had to buy sturgeon fry for 6 yuan each," said Dong Yude, head of a local freshwater fish breeding cooperative. Now, through collaboration with research institutes to improve breeding technology, "our self-bred fry sell for just 2 yuan each." Farmers like Feng Yuanquan, once wary of high-risk fish farming, now expand operations with confidence thanks to cooperatives providing feed, disease prevention, funding, and sales channels.

Linqu's sturgeon farming output reaches about 6,000 tonnes annually -- 4 percent of national production and 61 percent of Shandong's total.

Xu said that his company is building a new processing workshop that will meet European Union standards. After going into production at the end of the year, it can process 20 tonnes of caviar and other products annually, and its total processing capacity can reach 200 tonnes when fish meat, tendons and other deep-processed products are calculated, Xu said.

The county also plans to build four additional standardized workshops, thereby raising annual caviar output capacity to 100 tonnes.

"Expanded output doesn't mean compromised quality," said a purchaser from France. "These world delicacies remain elegant, but also down-to-earth and accessible."

Meanwhile, Linqu's foie gras producers continue refining their craft with attention to animal welfare. "Instead of using whole corn kernels, we press them into flakes and blend into a paste, which reduces discomfort and avoids scratching the esophagus," explained Ma Lijun, general manager of Shandong Chunguan Food Co., Ltd. "We even play soothing music for the geese."

Today, China supplies 60 percent of the world's caviar, 45 percent of French-style foie gras and over 80 percent of black truffles, turning these tantalizing luxury ingredients, once exclusively tied to European provenance, into what industry insiders now call "new Chinese specialties."

Behind these figures lies a story of agricultural modernization.

The country has strengthened scientific and technological support for agricultural processing, backing 1,709 towns with strong agriculture-related industries, 350 national modern agricultural industrial parks, and more than 90,000 leading agricultural enterprises at or above the county level. 

Landes geese are seen at a breeding workshop in Linqu County, east China's Shandong Province, Oct. 28, 2025. (Xinhua)
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.
PHNOM PENH, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia and Laos have agreed to further deepen their bilateral ties and cooperation for mutual benefits, said a Cambodian foreign ministry's press release on Friday.

The agreement was made during the 15th meeting of the Cambodia-Laos Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation, which was held in Vientiane, capital of Laos, on Thursday under the co-chairmanship of Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn and Lao Minister of Foreign Affairs Thongsavanh Phomvihane.

Both ministers had in-depth discussions on ways and means to further deepen the Comprehensive and Long-lasting Strategic Partnership between the two countries, the press release said.

They "reaffirmed their commitment to further deepening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation across multiple fields," it said.

"Both ministers recognized significant potential for expanding trade and investment and agreed to promote closer business-to-business engagement," the press release added.

The two ministers also expressed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in the energy sector through the active implementation of existing agreements and memorandums of understanding.

Sokhonn conveyed his deep appreciation for Laos' energy supply in helping to meet Cambodia's needs, the press release said, adding that both sides also held comprehensive discussions on other key areas, including agriculture, connectivity, tourism, people-to-people linkages, and education.

They reiterated their shared determination to build a common border of peace, friendship, development and cooperation between the two countries.

The two ministers also agreed to hold the next meeting in Cambodia in 2027. 
A press conference is held in Hong Kong, south China, on Nov. 28, 2025. Firefighting, rescue and search operations were completed at 10:18 a.m. on Friday, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government told a press conference on Friday. (Xinhua/Chen Duo)

HONG KONG, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Firefighting, rescue and search operations were completed at 10:18 a.m. on Friday, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government told a press conference on Friday.

As of now, the fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po has claimed 128 lives, and it cannot be ruled out that more bodies may be found when the police enter the scene for investigation later, Chris Tang Ping-keung, secretary for security of the HKSAR government, told a press conference.

Meanwhile, approximately 200 people remain unaccounted for, Tang said.

A total of 391 fire engine sorties, 185 ambulance sorties and 2,311 fire and ambulance personnel were dispatched. Twelve firefighters were injured, and Ho Wai-ho, from Sha Tin Fire Station, made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty, said Andy Yeung Yan-kin, director of Fire Services of the HKSAR government. 

A press conference is held in Hong Kong, south China, on Nov. 28, 2025. Firefighting, rescue and search operations were completed at 10:18 a.m. on Friday, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government told a press conference on Friday. (Xinhua/Zhu Wei)
Israeli soldiers take position during a raid in Jenin in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, on Thursday.
A citizenship candidate holds a flag during the US Citizenship and Immigration Services naturalization ceremony at Rockefeller Plaza in New York, in September 2019.
The construction of the Cambodia-China Mekong Kratie Friendship Bridge, a China-funded bridge across the Mekong River, is near completion.
Costantino Ciervo

Berlin-based Italian artist Costantino Ciervo is no stranger to controversy. Over the past four decades, the self-proclaimed political artist and socialist has created artworks that address the plight of some of the most exploited sections of the working classundocumented workers in Italy, migrants who have died crossing the Mediterranean and the persecution of the Palestinian people. In the course of his work he has often encountered the indifference or even the hostility of cultural institutions.

However, the reaction to his latest exhibition, COMUNEThe Paradox of Similarity in the Middle East Conflict, came from an unexpected source. In his introductory speech to the audience attending the exhibitions opening at the Fluxus Museum in Potsdam (on the southwest border of Berlin) on November 15, the curator of the museum, Tamas Blenessy, expressed his vehement opposition to the content of the exhibition, which seeks to encourage debate and shed light on the background to the persecution of the Palestinian people by Israel and the imperialist powers led by the United States. The WSWS has dealt with the content of the exhibition in a previous article.

After the opening of the exhibition, I spoke to Costantino Ciervo to ask him to explain his differences with the curators introductory speech.

Costantino Ciervo: "The Paradox of Similarity"

Costantino Ciervo: I only received the text from the curator, Tamas Blenessy, three hours before the exhibition began, so I couldnt really prepare myself properly. But it was enough time to understand that the positions put forward by the curator in his text expressed the most extreme form of Zionist propaganda. I hastily drew up nine points arguing against the main positions put forward in the text and presented them to the audience in my reply to the curator.

I began by stating that I disagreed with the opening statement and said it put forward arguments which could have come from the mouth of Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu, a man who is a criminal and a terrorist and who heads a terrorist state. Netanyahu, the same man who has been charged by the International Criminal Court in The Hague with the crime of genocide and is the subject of an international arrest warrant. Tamass statement at the opening of the exhibition represented the most right-wing positions held by the Zionists.

In his introductory comments, the curator acknowledged that he based his remarks on an essay authored by the virulent Zionist blogger, Ilya Bezruchko. Taking up Bezruchkos theme, the curator scandalously claimed that there were in fact no Palestinians and that the term Palestinian was a construct. It is also very important that from that point on in his speech, he never used the word Palestinians. Instead he spoke of Arabs or people other than Israelis. In his opinion, the Arabs were the aggressors in the Middle East. He went so far as to say that no occupation of Palestinian lands had taken place and that Arabs were attracted into the territory where Palestinians had lived for thousands of years by the envy of the much more advanced Israeli civilization. This is all vicious nonsense, of course.

In my counter to Tamas, I made the point that the concept of nation first arose along with the development of capitalism. Peoples with traditions other than the Jewish tradition had been living in the territory of the Middle East for thousands of years. It was only later, with the founding of Islam in 630, that Islamic traditions gradually took hold, and so the historic identity of these peoples cannot be defined in terms of a nation state. The term Palestine did not come out of nowhere; it was already used 2,000 years ago by the Romans, by the British when they had the mandate to administer the territory, and it is also used by the United Nations. I also gave other examples, such as the indigenous peoples of Australia or North America. They had had an identity for thousands of years, and the concept of nationhood arose much later, ultimately under capitalism.

In the case of the Palestinians the first assault on their land took place in 1948 with the founding of Israela completely unequal offensive by migrant settlers armed with modern weaponry against shepherds and farmers, driving 700,000 Palestinians from their land. This Israeli offensive was then deepened and advanced with the Six-Day War in 1967. Against this background of aggression by successive Israeli regimes backed to the hilt by the US and other imperialist countries the armed struggle by Palestinians to defend themselves and their land was entirely justified.

That was, in summary, my argument, which was followed closely by the audience.

Stefan Steinberg: The aim of your exhibition is to highlight the common interests and roots of the peoples of the Middle East. In my own place of work I work alongside Arab colleagues, who have relatives in Gaza and are appalled by the actions of the fascistic Israeli government. At the same time, they reject the accusation that their opposition to the regime in Israel is tantamount to antisemitism, pointing out that the historical definition of Semitism applies to all Arab and Hebrew peoples in the region. On this basis, the only solution to the conflict is a single state for Arab and Jewish workers based on the principle of social equality. Donald Trumps recently announced peace plan, which denies Palestinians any real sovereignty, was approved by the United Nations last week. Could you comment on this in relation to your exhibition?

Costantino Ciervo: The aim of the exhibition is to highlight the common interests and roots of the peoples of the Middle East. I suggest that the Jewish and Arab peoples, who have been in conflict with one another for nearly a 100 years, ultimately have much more in common culturally and historically than they have differences. I have illustrated this by using figures created with the help of artificial intelligenceto show similarities via the juxtaposition of Jews and Israelis, thereby evoking an affiliation of individuals, an association of brothers/sisters. Its about siblings (mostly twins in the portraits), and this starting point is very important to me because I think that the solution in this territory called Palestine can only be a one-state solution.

If two states are built side by side, then one state, i.e., Israel, would be much more powerful, would receive more support, have more money, while the second state would remain underdeveloped and receive less or no support. This would mean that this latter rump state would invariable serve as a cheap labor platform for Israel. And this inequality in turn would, of course, provoke violence. Inequality in economic performance will sooner or later cause violence to escalate again.

In my opinion, the only answer is a one-state solution, a federation of two populations living together in one state giving full freedom to two different historical and cultural traditions, based on social equality. I have sought to express this concept in the exhibition in the form of a sewing machine that sews the outline of Palestine from 1917, and in the middle, the territory occupied by Israel. The steady diminution of Palestine at the hands of Israeli expansionism during the past 75 years to the tiny rump state of Gaza and some villages in the West Bank is shown in the background to the portraits on show in the exhibition.

Stefan Steinberg: In 1948 the Trotskyists in the Fourth International warned of the utopian and reactionary nature of a Zionist solution of the Jewish question and declared that Jewish and Arab workers could only unite on the basis of a complete renunciation of Zionism. In the same year leading Jewish intellectuals in the US, such as Albert Einstein and Hannah Arendt, also warned of the dangers of a religiously based Jewish state in the Middle East.

Costantino Ciervo: I know about the letter undersigned by Einstein and Arendt to the New York Times. At that time Menachem Begin headed the Irgun terrorist group. Begin was visiting New York to drum up support and money for his terror activities, but Einstein and Arendt wanted nothing to do with him, likening his ideology to that of the fascist state in Germany. Begin went on to form the Likud Party, which is headed by Netanyahu today, and is continuing in the fascistic tradition represented by Begin.

Costantino Ciervo: Girl with Keffiyeh

Stefan Steinberg: Your activities to expose the oppression of the Palestinian people go back at least two decades, and in the course of your work you have combined complex mechanical constructions with visual art. The portraits for your current exhibition are meticulously hand-painted portraits based on patterns generated by artificial intelligence. Under capitalist conditions, AI clearly poses great dangers to artistic production, but your own work shows how this new technology can be used in a positive way. Could you say something about this?

Costantino Ciervo: Artificial intelligence is a powerful tool that can be used for negative and destructive purposes but also for constructive purposes. Now, specifically with regard to Israel, one must understand that AI is used every day to achieve Netanyahus plan for a Greater Israel extending from the River Jordan to the Mediterranean Sea. The well-known Unit 8200, a division of the Israel Defense Forces, is responsible for clandestine operations. Unit 8200 employs some of the best minds in the field of AI to use facial recognition techniques in order to identify, control and eliminate opponents, for example, with remotely controlled drones. According to members of the Israeli government, its opponents extend to the entire population of Palestine. This makes clear that this technology is being used to oppress and potentially eliminate an entire people.

My approach is metaphorical. I took an existing person from the internet, a photo of a Palestinian, and told the AI to make a copy of this person as a twin, but the characteristics in terms of clothing and symbols should not be so Palestinian but rather Jewish. I want to show that while they differ in their clothing, with regard to their physical and facial features, they are siblings, that in essence, as fellow humans beings living in societies under the same stress and pressure, they have more in common than in mere appearance. The source of their differences is external, in particular, the priorities of the major imperialist powers which seek to divide in order to maintain their rule.

Stefan Steinberg: You attended a recent meeting here in Berlin. At the meeting the chairman of the WSWS Editorial Board David North addressed the issue of AI and announced the plan to make available a chatbot, Socialism AI, as a resource for the study of socialist and Marxist analysis.

Costantino Ciervo: I think highly of the idea. The problem with AI is private ownership. As long as AI exists and is developed in private handsIm talking about people like Sam Altman, Bill Gates, Jeff Bezos, Mark Zuckerberg and worst of all, Peter Thiel, a billionaire who owns platforms like Palantir, a powerful company that provides its services to the secret services in the US, for example. AI must be taken out of private ownership and put into the hands of the working class and the exploited. It must be transparent, it must be open source, so that knowledge remains transparent and is used for progressive purposes. And this includes building a new platform, for example, to specifically disseminate Marxist ideas, which are often misused or misrepresented.

I think its very good that Socialism AI is happening. There are all sorts of technical, political and other related questions that arise when you do something like this, but basically, I am very, very excited that AI is being developed in such a way for a world without private ownership and capitalist exploitation.
The German parliament, the Bundestag, is debating the 2026 federal budget this week, which is due to be adopted on Friday. As we wrote in an earlier article, it is a war budget.

The Merz government [Photo by Bundestag / Thomas Imo / photothek]

Defence Minister Boris Pistorius (Social Democrat-SPD) can spend more than twice as much money as last year. While the defence budget stood at 52 billion in 2024, it will rise to 108 billion in 2026. Two-thirds of this will come from the regular budget, one-third from the 100 billion special fund approved at the start of the Ukraine war.

But this is only the beginning. According to official financial planning, the defence budget is to rise to 162 billion by 2029, amounting to 3.5 percent of GDP. By then it will be financed entirely from the regular budget. In addition, a further 500 billion will flow over the next five years from the special fund for infrastructurewhich, like Hitlers autobahn (motorway) construction once did, is designed above all to make roads, railways and bridges fit for war. In this way, Germany is preparing to continue the war against Russia independently of the United States as well.

These colossal sums are being financed through increased national debt. Of the 525 billion total budget for 2026, 98 billion will come from new loans. Added to this are a further 83 billion from the two special funds, bringing total new borrowing to a record 180 billion. Business associations and political parties are unanimous that workers, pensioners and the poor will ultimately be made to pay.

The budget debate and Wednesdays so-called general debate were, as usual, marked by fierce exchanges between the parties. But the parliamentary clamour cannot conceal the fact that they are all in agreement on the fundamental issues. The war budget, and the accompanying social attacks, is supported by an all-party coalition ranging from the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) to the Greens and the Left Party.

AfD leader Alice Weidel, who opened the general debate, compared Germany to the sinking Titanic, condemned high national debt and the economic crisisand blamed not the governments war policy but migration for these problems. She demanded a policy of the closed door: complete border controls, uncompromising turning-back of all illegals, and finally rigorous deportation. She did not utter a single word of criticism of the war budget. Instead, she offered Merz the political cooperation of the AfD, whose own election programme calls for higher military spending.

Representatives of the governing parties, the Christian Democrats (CDU/CSU) and SPD, and the Greens attacked the AfD fiercelybut not because of its fascist agitation against migrants which they themselves have long since adopted. In his response to Weidel, Chancellor Merz boasted of his successes in this area: We are once again deciding who comes to us, under what conditions they come, and who stays with us, he said.

The CDU/CSU, SPD and Greens attacked the AfD because of its reservations about the Ukraine war and its channels of communication with Moscow, accusing it of treason. SPD parliamentary leader Matthias Mirsch called the AfD a security risk for Germany, while CDU/CSU parliamentary group leader Jens Spahn labelled it the fifth column of Putin. Weidel replied sweetly that her party maintained not only open channels to Russia but also close ties to the White House. We have always demanded exactly what Donald Trump is now implementing.

Britta Haelmann, parliamentary leader of the Greenswho had made the war budget possible in the first place by approving the 1 trillion rearmament loansaccused Merz of lack of leadership, including towards the United States. Trumps Ukraine initiative, she complained, was a plan of submission for Ukraine, nothing else.

Merz had indeed distanced himself from the US proposals in his speech, but he had avoided naming them outright and shied away from a confrontation with Trump. He said he wanted peace in freedom, not the silence of the cemetery, not peace through capitulation. An agreement without the consent of Ukraine and the Europeans was no basis for a sustainable peace in Ukraine, he said.

Left Party parliamentary leader Soren Pellmann also accused Merz of lacking a plan. He had failed to deliver and failed on almost all policy fields, Pellmann said. He accused Merz of pursuing a policy for the rich and claimed there was a massive redistribution from the bottom to the top. As if anything else could have been expected from the former chairman of BlackRock Germany!

The entire policy of the Left Party is aimed at fostering the illusion that Merz and the government can be pressured into adopting a different policy. In reality, the Left Party itself approved the rearmament loans in the Bundesrat (upper house of parliament) and helped Merz achieve a rapid election as chancellor after his failed first ballot.

The Left Partys co-chair Heidi Reichinnek also indulged in social demagogy, until Green MP Audretsch reminded her, in an intervention, that in the Berlin Senate (state executive) the Left Party had contributed to the explosion in rents in the capital through the sale of public housing to private investors.

You are right, Reichinnek replied. These flats were sold at the time under an SPDLeft Party administration because the budget had to be balanced. It was a catastrophe and a huge mistake. The problem is that the Lander [federal states] were forced into exactly this position.

This is the Left Party in its purest form. It speaks left and acts right. In speeches and election appeals, it makes grand promises, only to carry out the dirty work for the state and for the banks and corporations as soon as it is elected, citing supposed constraints. Nothing frightens it more than an independent movement from below that questions existing relations of power and property.

The growing opposition of the European working class to their governments policies of war and cuts was the real elephant in the room during the entire general debate. While MPs were speaking, a general strike paralysed Belgium in protest against the governments austerity budget there. In Italy and Portugal, similar general strikes are planned for the coming days. In London, parliament was simultaneously debating the Starmer governments new austerity budget that brutally slashes social benefits.

The growing resistance of the European working class creates the conditions to stop governments policies of war and social devastation. But to succeed, it must be united internationally and armed with a socialist programme to overthrow capitalism.
Canadian Prime Minster Mark Carney speaks to troops at Fort York Armoury in Toronto, June 9, 2025, just before announcing an immediate 19 percent increase in military spending [Photo: Mark Carney/Facebook]

Canadas Liberal government, led by the blue-chip executive and central banker Mark Carney, plans to militarize the economy and embed the armed forces in all areas of social life. This goal was underlined by the allocation of vast new sums in this months federal budget to building up the armed forces and Canadas military-industrial base, and by the recent revelation that Ottawa is planning to create a massive 300,000-strong military reserve for deployment in an emergency.

The military build-up that Canadian imperialism is plotting will entail a frontal assault on the working class, its social position and living standards. As Canadas Globe and Mail, the mouthpiece of the Bay Street financial elite, put it in a November 12 editorial, Business and labour will need to take risks and tighten belts. And when disputes arise, all sides must walk the path of compromise to achieve a common purpose. In a word: sacrifice.

The only sacrifice possible in a capitalist society in which profits are extracted from the labour power of the working class and appropriated as private profit is the complete subordination of the working class to austerity and war. Alongside its imperialist allies in the United States and Europe, Canadas ruling class is planning to wage a war or wars of aggression against Russia and China by 2030. This will require a massive increase in the rate of exploitation of labour, as the economy is reorganized for rearmament and war, and the state suppression of strikes and other form of working-class opposition.

There is no significant opposition to this incendiary agenda within the ruling class. All are agreed that Canada must be a protagonist, as it was in the two world wars of the last century, in a new imperialist partition of the world, so as to lay claim to markets, resources, production networks and geostrategic influence.

The Canadian government is thus moving to place the economy on a war footing.

It has created a new Defence Investment Agency to accelerate the transfer of wealth socially created by the working class into procuring armaments, supercharging innovation in aerospace, shipbuilding, and advanced manufacturing, in its own hackneyed parlance. According to Finance Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne, Every company in the country should basically have a defence strategy.

Champagnes budget provided $6.6 billion to the governments new Defence Industrial Strategy. This will be used to support research on new weapons-systems and as seed money to rapidly expand Canadas military-industrial base. Ottawa wants to ensure that Canadian capital can cash in on the global surge in armaments spending, as well as benefiting handsomely from the hundreds of billions it plans to spend over the next decade on procuring new fleets of attack submarines, warships, fighter jets, surveillance and attack drones and other weaponry.

Faced with global trade war and mounting layoffs across Canadian industry, the government is touting military spending as a key component of its strategy to grow the economy. What a fraud! Rearmament will be paid for through massive social spending cuts and tax rises, will embolden the ruling class in hurtling to the precipice of global war, and only further enrich the arms merchants and various politically well-connected operators.

Earlier this month, a newly created Canadian company, Nalagx announced plans to build the largest explosives factory in Canada since WWII in cooperation with Frances state-owned Eurenco. The joint venture will supply Canada, France and other NATO powers with artillery shells and gun ammunition. Our agreement, said Nalagx CEO and former Liberal MP Patrick Gagnon, is a concrete illustration of the rebirth of the defence industry in Canada.

Montreal-based Bombardier is in negotiations with Saab to build its Gripen fighter jet in Canada to fulfill potential orders from the Canadian and Ukrainian militaries. Bombardier and Saab are already partners in Saabs Global Eye surveillance jet, which uses Bombardiers 6000/6500 business jet as its platform.

Massive military spending hikes and a 300,000-strong reserve

The Carney governments 2025-2026 budget, which parliament approved earlier this month thanks to the connivance of the New Democrats, Greens, and trade union bureaucracy, is meant to kick-start a massive decade-long hike in Canadas military spending.

In just the current fiscal year, the Carney government has increased defence spending from 1.4 to 2 percent of GDP. But it is also vowing to quickly go far beyond that and hike Canadas defence expenditure to 5 percent of GDP or $150 billion annually by 2035.

In its budget, the government committed $84 billion in new military expenditures over the next five years, while making clear this is just an initial down payment. The new expenditures include $19 billion to upgrade military bases and other infrastructure with a focus on Canadian Navy ports and the Arctic; $17.9 billion on new weapons systems; $10.9 billion to wage cyber warfare; and another $6.2 billion on military aid to Ukraines corrupt, Nazi-ridden regime. The Carney government is framing these expenditures as investments in the defence of Canadian sovereignty, which in reality means the defence of Canadian capitalism and its profits, both against its imperialist rivals and the working class at home.

A further $20.4 billion will be directed towards recruitment of new soldiers and the retention of existing ones through pay raises. The lowest ranks will see their pay increase from $43,368 to $52,044 annually. To put this in its proper, class perspective, the top 100 CEOs whose dominant social position these soldiers will be defending with their lives earn an average of $62,660 in a single day.

Ottawa is also planning to build up a massive reserve military force, who at least until mobilized in active operations, would be an unpaid, bare-bones volunteer force.

The Ottawa Citizens David Pugliese has revealed the existence of a heretofore secret Mobilization Plan to enlist up to 300,000 civil servants and civilians into the Canadian Armed Forces Supplementary Reserve force. This force currently consists of a mere 4,384 retired or former CAF soldiers. The organized reserves are also to be dramatically expanded to 100,000 from 23,500 today.

These unprecedented plans would put 1 percent of Canadas population under military command. They are being undertaken entirely behind the backs of the public. The mobilization plan was signed by Chief of the Defence Staff Gen. Jennie Carignan and defence deputy minister Stefanie Beck on May 30, 2025, according to Pugliese.

In other words, within days of its election on April 28, the minority Carney Liberal government was secretly planning for Canadas direct participation in a great-power or world war. A so-called Tiger Team within the Department of National Defence was created on June 4 to implement the plan. The Globe and Mail subsequently revealed that implementation will begin in the spring of 2026.

According to the Ottawa Citizen, public servants would be required to do one weeks worth of military training each year but would not be issued uniforms The training focus would be on basic skills (e.g. shoot, move, and communicate; drive a truck; fly a drone: etc.).

As absurd as these plans may seem on their face, with the caricature of civil servants with guns being widely mocked, workers must take them as seriously as the ruling class does.

Canadian Armed Forces personnel training Ukrainian troops (CAF-Operation Unifier) [Photo: Government of Canada]

The head of the Canadian Armed Forces, General Jennie Carignan, remarked to the press that, We are really looking at our own sovereignty, territory, and having those resilient communities who know where to go should anything happen, from pandemics to floods to a missile strike.

This poses the question: what foreign provocations is Canadian imperialism planning, along with Washington and their NATO allies, that would result in a missile strike on Canadian soil? The answer is not hard to find. The Canadian military has been at the forefront of imperialist operations against Russia. Canadian forces lead NATOs international military brigade in Latvia, and have armed and trained Ukraines right-led military, including helping to integrate pro-Nazi militia under Operation UNIFIER. Canada is also deeply integrated into the preparations of the US, and its chief Asia-Pacific allies, Japan and Australia, for war with China.

In recent months, Carney has worked closely with Paris, London, and Berlin in the coalition of the willing that the principal European imperialist powers have created to ensure the NATO-instigated war on Russia continues. Last week, the head of Frances military, General Fabien Mandon declared that France must be ready to lose its children, and suffer economically if it is to prevail over Russia. These remarks were met with public outrage, but were defended by French President Emmanuel Macron and his government.

A Whole of Society Approach

Military leaders in the imperialist countries are unabashed in demanding a so-called Whole of Society approach to fighting wars. According to the CAFs Mobilization Plan, this requires the creation of a servant culture around sovereignty and public accountability that will necessitate shaping, facilitation and engagement with the Privy Council Office, other government departments and agencies as well as socialization with the Canadian public.

Translated into plain English, this means that the Canadian government plans a massive propaganda campaign to force the working class to accept its war of choice. The governments model in this fascistic endeavour is Finland, a recognized leader in this area.

The citing of Finland, a front-line state in NATOs advanced preparations for a war with Russia, as an example to follow is extremely ominous. As the World Socialist Web Site wrote in April, The Finnish government has repeatedly spoken positively of Finlands alliance with the Nazis during World War II. A key theme of (Finnish President) Stubbs remarks in Kiev on the third anniversary of Russias US-provoked invasion of Ukraine was that it was a tragedy that Finland, and by implication its ally, Nazi Germany, lost to the Soviet Union.

Canadian imperialism is no shrinking violet when it comes to embracing Nazis, as the World Socialist Web Site has extensively documented. The intractable crisis of world capitalism is once again driving the Canadian ruling class to bring forward and co-opt the most reactionary, socially backwards elements.

On November 11, the anniversary of the Armistice which officially ended the First World War in 1918a day that has been transformed into an occasion for the glorification of warfare by Canadian imperialismthe Globe and Mail published an article entitled Polands Trigger Point. It was a paean to the whole of society approach to the militarization underway in that country. The feature painted a glowing picture of Poles eagerly practicing their marksmanship and training in the martial art of Krav Maga developed by the Israeli Defence Forces.

Significantly, the article lends credibility to the leadership of the Polish preppers movement, a collection of hundreds of survivalists who share tips on how to live in the wild and were once considered by many as crackpots. Now, Mr. Czuryllo has been flooded with inquiries about prepping and hes giving weekly survival courses to families, corporate executives and municipal employees.

The fascists from the CAFs Vandoo regiment who were arrested in July by the RCMP were also preppers preparing for a violent social breakdown. If they were not currently facing multiple terrorism and weapons charges based on their plans to seize land and form a fascist anti-government militia, these would be the people the Globe and Canadas military would like to have giving lessons in hand-to-hand combat to those induced through their militarist-nationalist propaganda to enlist in the massive, soon to be launched supplementary reserve.

The working class must face hard facts. There is no anti-war political constituency within the Canadian ruling class, and no possibility of a turn away from world war within the confines of capitalist social relations and bourgeois parliamentary politics. The social-democratic NDPs last impotent squeak feigning opposition to Carneys commitment to spend 5 percent of GDP on war by 2035 was issued in June. But this was not an anti-war statement, merely a quibble about sums. Carneys new pledge would cost Canadians more than $100 billion per year, the NDP complained, while agreeing that Canadian Armed Forces personnel and infrastructure were underfunded by successive Liberal and Conservative governments, and there is a need to increase investment in these services.

On November 17, the same day the NDP helped ensure the adoption of Carneys budget of austerity and war, British Columbia NDP Premier David Eby released an industrial strategy for the province largely focused on ensuring that BC gets its fair share of Canadian imperialist rearmament.

The working class must break decisively with these warmongers, and build its own independent, revolutionary socialist leadership, the International Committee of the Fourth International, and its Canadian section, the Socialist Equality Party, so as to put an end to capitalism and the threat of a catastrophic global conflagration.
In the face of sharp attacks on jobs and wages in the automotive and supplier industries, a rebellion is developing against the IG Metall union and its works council apparatus who are busy enforcing those attacks. This process is already well under way at Bosch Automotive Steering GmbH in Schwabisch Gmund, in the state of Baden-Wurttemberg. The founding of a new trade union organisation there, in opposition to IG Metall, is imminent.

10,000 protest in March 2024 in Gerlingen near Stuttgart against job cuts at Bosch

In a works meeting on November 22 last year, Bosch management in Schwabisch Gmund informed the 3,450 employees that by 2030 a total of 1,900 jobs would go, mainly in the production of steering systems.

This formed part of the corporations announcement that 9,000 jobs would be eliminated across the worlds largest supplier group. That figure was raised again by a further 13,000 this past September. It is the largest downsizing in the companys history. Robert Bosch GmbH employs around 418,000 workers worldwide, almost 130,000 of them in Germany, most of whomaround 87,000work in research and development.

As early as 2017, IG Metall and the works council concluded framework agreements and supposed site security agreements. These stipulated that the workforce in Schwabisch Gmund would be reduced to 2,850 jobs by the end of 2026. An additional 1,300 jobs were then to be cut from 2027. In the meantime, the works council and IG Metall have signed off on the destruction of 1,700 jobs, rather than the originally planned 1,550.

The IG Metall apparatus has justified this, as it has done a thousand times before in other companies. We had to make painful compromises, IG Metalls senior representative in the region, Heike Madan, recited in routine fashion after the agreement was signed in June. In view of the very difficult initial situation we nevertheless achieved an acceptable result, lied the IG Metall official. And, yes, there is again a so-called site guarantee, not worth the paper it is written on, this time until 2030.

Bosch will close production at plant II; Of 36 hectares, Bosch will keep six hectares, the rest is to be marketed, reported Schwabisch Gmunds spokesperson for economic development, Alexander Groll, in the municipal council in mid-October. Bosch will retain only the administrative and office buildings and a test track. The deputy chair of the works council, Andreas Reimer, claims to know nothing about this.

Bosch declares that the company aims to become competitive again through the job cuts. In order to reduce costs, production of steering systems for commercial vehicles is being relocated to Hungarywith the support of IG Metall.

Resistance to this policy and to the role of IG Metall, which millions of workers are currently experiencing first hand, has already erupted at Bosch in Schwabisch Gmund. The then deputy chair of the works council, Huseyin Ekinci, refused to sign a confidentiality agreement and informed the workforce at a works meeting about the secret talks and plans of IG Metall, the works council and management. He was then voted out at the instigation of the works council, chaired by Claudio Bellomo.

Bosch works council rep Mustafa Simsek also opposed this. He accused some works council members of having learned of the downsizing plans from management months beforehand and having kept them secret. He reports that management had already met with works council members on November 5 and 12, 2024, and thus days before the downsizing plans were announced on November 22, including to discuss the closure of plant II. His questions at a works meeting as to the reasons for the secrecy were not answered by the official keepers of secrets.

Simsek said he was preparing the founding of a new trade union organisation in order to be able once again represent the interests of the workforce. The new organisation was already in the process of being founded and was to be active nationwide, he said. We are thinking big and we intend to act big. Around 200 employees were already involved; he expected many more: We are going to see a rush. The movement has become an avalanche that can no longer be stopped.

Confidently, Simsek declared: Many peoples patience has run out. Now the employees are organising themselves. IG Metall had distanced itself from peoples concerns, When a trade union loses its voice, the workers must raise their own. The new employees association was a warning call to the entire republic. What is happening here is a wake-up call for all employees in Germany: we must once again take our interests into our own hands, he stressed. The association was to be open to everyone: Origin, religion, political stancethat does not matter.

Simsek has stood up to the apparatus and has therefore won support among workers. The response to his initiative shows the enormous anger over IG Metalls role as a company police. This self-organisation of workers and rebellion against the apparatus are to be welcomed. But what is decisive is that it is really carried out by rank-and-file and does not become a new bureaucratic apparatus. It must be democratic, accountable and international in orientation.

It must be uncompromising. Jobs and wages, the livelihood of the working masses, must not become bargaining chips in order to secure the competitiveness, that is, the profits, of the company.

The World Socialist Web Site and the Sozialistische Gleichheitspartei (Socialist Equality Party, SGP) welcome the self-initiative of the workforce. Four years ago, we instigated the building of the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees (IWA-RFC). The founding of the International Workers Alliance is the indispensable response to a global crisis, we wrote in our appeal, calling on workers worldwide to organise themselves independently of the trade union apparatuses and bureaucracies in order to fight together for their rights.

The International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees is creating a network of independent and democratic action committees in factories and workplaces on an international level. It serves as an instrument for the coordination and exchange of information among workers worldwide, so that they can jointly protect and defend their jobs, wages and gains.

The international orientation of the IWA-RFC corresponds to the character of production and of capitalism. It is impossible for workers to defend their jobs and rights effectively, no matter how much commitment and willingness to fight they show, so long as they are left on their own and remain separated from the rest of the international workforce of a globally active corporation.

Simsek and his associates want to defend jobs without compromise. We will not allow jobs here to be cut or relocated abroad quietly and secretly. We stand for the people here on the groundand we do so resolutely, says Simsek. But for the people on the ground, unity with people all over the world is absolutely essential. Jobs in commercial vehicle production, for example, cannot be defended without fellow workers in Hungary.

Workersnot only at Boschface challenges that go far beyond the previous forms of so-called representation within the framework of social partnership. Globalisation and the ability to relocate production to another corner of the earth at short notice have pulled the rug from under the unions feet. Under these conditions, their nationalist perspectivethat of strengthening the competitiveness of their own company, because, according to trade union logic, only then can jobs be preservedturns into the justification of boundless attacks. In global competition, the workforce in Germany is competing with that in Hungary, Poland, Bulgaria, Romania, China, Vietnam and so on. Thus, wages and working conditions in the poorest country become the worldwide benchmark.

On this basis, the unions agree to job cuts, wage reductions and worse working conditions. They play one site off against another, divide workers from their colleagues in other countries and boycott every serious resistance. And not only that. In the escalating international trade war, the unions also stand at the side of their own government.

In an article on the Europe-wide economic and political crisis, we recently wrote: The unions also support their governments respective war policies. Whereas the IG Metall union used to promote the slogan swords to plowshares, it now advocates converting auto factories into tank factories.

Despite all the personal corruption and degeneracy among the union officials, who sell themselves for lucrative posts on supervisory and management boards, their role as the extended arm of big shareholders and managers, as factory police ensuring calm and order in the workforce, is an expression of these objective developments.

The attempt to replace IG Metall while leaving the social framework untouched is therefore doomed to fail. Simsek says: The works council was not elected to act as a puppet of the employer. Its task is to represent the interests of the workforce.

That is not entirely correct. Even though works councils are not obliged to approve every dirty trick of the companies, their class collaboration is enshrined in law. Works councils were legally anchored by the Social Democratic Party (SPD) government under Friedrich Ebert after the November Revolution of 1918 as a response to the formation of workers and soldiers councils, modelled on the revolutionary soviets. The Works Constitution Act, which came into force in November 1952 and was fundamentally revised in January 1972, further anchored the class collaboration of the works councils.

The law obliges management and works council to work together in a spirit of mutual trust and to maintain confidentiality. It forbids the works council from calling for industrial action. Instead, it is required, once a month, to negotiate contentious issues with a serious will to reach agreement and to make proposals for the settlement of differences of opinion. ( 74 para. 2 Works Constitution Act)

This legally regulated class collaboration is directed against the workers and against the defence of their interests through measures of industrial struggle.

The newly developing liberation of the workforce from the straitjacket of the unions is therefore a tremendous step forward. What is now necessary is a further bold step: firstly, the building of independent action committees that connect and unite the working masses across all sites, companies, sectors and national borders, so that they can successfully confront shareholders, banks and corporate owners.

Secondly, the defence of workers interests requires a perspective that goes beyond capitalism, that is, beyond private ownership of the means of production and the nation state system: workers interests before profit interests, international unity rather than national division.

We invite all those who wish to oppose IG Metall policies to contact us and discuss the next necessary steps. Send us a WhatsApp message on +49 163 3378340 and fill in the form below.
The Labour government has opened a new front in its assault on the working class, with dire consequences for many of the people who hold Britains overstretched health and social care services together.

On November 20, Labour Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood unveiled a proposed brutal restructuring of immigration rules under the Orwellian title A fairer pathway to settlement. The measures are in fact designed to trap migrant workers in a state of prolonged insecurity.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood speaking in Parliament, September 7, 2023 [Photo by House of Commons/Flickr / CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

The message could not be clearer: work, pay taxes, fill the gaps left by a collapsing system, but do not expect permanent rights, stability or family life in return. It marks a decisive escalation of Labours nationalist, anti-immigrant agenda which mirrors that of right-wing and far-right governments across Europe and the United States.

Mahmoods proposals on migrantsalong with her earlier Restoring Order and Control attack on asylum seekerscould just as easily have been issued under the far-right Reform UK partys letterhead. Taken together they effectively abolish the right to asylum and extend the residency period required for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and citizenship, laying the legal groundwork for mass deportations.

Under the new system, most migrant workersincluding health and social care staffmust live in Britain for 1015 years before applying for ILR, instead of the current five. If they claim welfare benefits for under a year it becomes 15 years; claim for longer and it rises to 20. Anyone entering the UK through an unsanctioned route could wait 30 years for permanent status.

Even gaining the right to ILR may not secure basic support. Mahmood has suggested tying welfare eligibility not to ILR but to full citizenshipmeaning decades of work, taxes and service could still end in second-class status.

The public consultation, set to end in February next year, will take place in a toxic climate towards migrants carefully manufactured with the help of the corporate media. Implementation is due in April, and the legal, ideological and administrative groundwork is already in place.

English-language requirements will be raised to A-level, alongside higher salary thresholds and financial checks that penalise debt, irregular income or hardship. One period of illness, a pregnancy, or a rent hike pushing someone into temporary debtand the clock resets.

The aim is to establish a permanently insecure workforce using citizenship, salary and passport exceptions to divide workers whose employment in the UK reflects the international character of the working class itself. The class bias on migration could not be starker with the wealthy able to glide through comparatively easily: high-earners and entrepreneurs earning over 125,140 can obtain ILR in just three years.

The infamous hostile environment pioneered by the Tories pales in comparison. So vicious is Labours policy that the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) warned ahead of the announcement that up to 50,000 migrant nurses could leave the UK under the restrictions.

In a calculated act of political self-preservation, Mahmood ultimately exempted NHS nurses, doctors and teachers from her crackdownhealth workers whose roles are highly visible and elicit strong public sympathy. However, private-sector nurses, healthcare assistants, residential care staff, support workers and agency carerswho play a critical role in Britains care systemare still in the firing line.

Speaking before Mahmoods belated announcement exempting NHS nurses from the dragnet, but pointing to the situation which still confronts many others, a migrant nurse at University Hospitals Dorset told the World Socialist Web Site: I feel very disappointed and discouraged by this plan. Doubling ILR from five to 10 years turns, what is already a demanding process into something that feels endless and insecure.

ILR isnt a rewardits the basic stability needed to build a life, and stretching the timeline feels punitive. It would mean many more years of visa renewals, high fees and constant work. Instead of being settled, we remain temporary and unsafe.

The NHS is already struggling with staff shortage. If settlement becomes harder, many may not comeor will leave for countries with clearer routes. That means worsening shortages, more pressure on staff, longer waiting times and real risks to patient safety.

A migrant doctor who works as a care assistant in supported living and has lived here more than three years told the WSWS: The Labour Party is irresponsibly responding to [Reform UK leader] Nigel Farages policies against migrants. This affects all skilled workers in Britain waiting for ILR, people who came here giving up jobs, money and properties, hoping for a better future.

With this decision people will be helpless and clueless about their future. It affects them physically and emotionally, leading many to be depressed. People will have second thoughts about coming here. This will lead to a collapse of the health and social care system.

He added, I have done all the necessary exams to practise as a doctor here, but it is very difficult to find a job in the NHS Im worried that even if I succeed, I will have to stay much longer to get ILR.

This assault comes when the social care system is on the brink. Britain has 130,000 care vacancies and two million elderly people are living with unmet care needs.

Hospitals discharges of many medically fit patientswho require a carerare routinely delayed because not enough carers exist to support them at home, adding to the NHS gridlock. Patients routinely wait on trolleys in corridors, ambulances queue at A&E bays, and wards overflow.

There is no serious opposition in Westminster to the anti-migrant crusade and its consequences, only competition over which party who can penalise them more efficiently.

Mahmoods draconian measures were claimed by the Conservative opposition as their own, with shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp stating, There is much in this statement that I support. I am delighted to see the Home Secretary got out her laptop and started copying and pasting Conservative policies.

An NHS hospital in Manchester

As for the trade union leaders in the sector, they have responded only with statements of concern, moral indignation and sternly worded press releases. Unison called the proposals devastating, the RCN a betrayal. But the union bureaucracy proposes nothing practically beyond appeals to the very government carrying out the assault.

Their role is not to lead resistance but to contain and divert it into the safe, harmless channels of consultation and parliamentary debate. The bureaucracy performed the same function during the NHS strike wave in 2022-3, dispersing the movement into fragmented, limited stoppages before helping shut them down and foist de facto pay cuts on their members.

The defence of migrant health and care workers cannot be entrusted to the union partners of the Labour Party. It must be led from below by rank-and-file health and care workers organising independently of the union bureaucracy, linking migrant and non-migrant staff, uniting NHS and private-sector carers, demanding rights not as privileges but as inalienable.

For the unity of all NHS staffhealth workers, cleaners, porters and support workers!

Full rights for all workerscitizenship, family unity, and equal access to services!

Fund health and social care not tax concessions to big business and military expenditure for war!

This is the perspective advanced by NHS FightBack in opposition to the Starmer governments hostile environment and its complicit allies in the trade union bureaucracy.
The World Socialist Web Site invites workers and other readers to contribute to this regular feature.

Asia

India: 5,000 sanitation workers strike indefinitely in Jaipur

Around 5,000 sanitation workers walked out on November 23 in Jaipur to demand permanent jobs, proper overtime payments and resumption of stalled recruitments for jobs for other family members. The striking workers will be joined next week by workers from other districts, including Ajmer and Bhilwara. The walkout follows long-running protests, including hunger strikes, over these demands.

Anganwadi (childcare) workers demand pay rise in Bhubaneshwar

Thousands of All Odisha Anganwadi Ladies Association members demonstrated near the state assembly building on November 24 for higher wages, pensions, government employee status and other demands.

The workers, who staged a similar protest last December, just before the state parliaments winter session, want 18,000 rupees ($US201) monthly and 9,000 rupees per month for assistants, 5G mobile handsets for official use, and a monthly pension of 5,000 rupees.

Midday meal workers in Telangana fight for higher wages

Hundreds of midday meal scheme workers from across Telangana and organised by the All-India Trade Union Congress protested outside the office of Director of School Education on November 24 to demand long-promised pay rises.

Telanganas Congress government promised to increase midday meal workers pay during the 2024 election. Protesters told the media that they are still only being paid 1,000 rupees per month, while their work hours and responsibilities have increased significantly. The mainly women workers are demanding 10,000 rupees per month.

Bangladesh: Garment workers fight sudden closure of factory

Workers at Honeywell Garments, a readymade garment plant in Gazipurs Baghia area of Konabari, blocked a local road on Tuesday after suddenly being informed that their factory was closing. Arriving for work that morning, they discovered the gate locked, prompting them to occupy the road from Mitali Club to Konabari New Market for hours.

Factory management claimed it was irrational and unlawful agitation by workers who went on strike on Monday to demand timely payment of wages. Workers, police officials and locals told the media, however, that employees had long been protesting for payment of wages and allowances by the 10th of each month.



Tensions increased during Mondays walkout following rumours that some workers might be dismissed for instigating unrest. Strikers responded by calling for the removal of certain factory officials.

The situation intensified on Tuesday when workers saw the closure notice and took to the streets again. The closure notice said the factory would reopen when a favourable environment was restored. Industrial police were mobilised, directing workers to end their protests and claiming there would be mediation with management.

Australia

Bus drivers strike in Newcastle

Bus drivers employed by Keolis Downer (KD) in Newcastle initiated 24-hour refusal of service action on Monday. The ban involves bus drivers refusing to operate the next service if the previous service was late by more than six minutes.

Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) members at the company are continuing industrial action they began earlier this year after RTBU and KD enterprise agreement negotiations broke down.

Negotiations that began when the previous agreement expired in November last year are now deadlocked despite 24 meetings in the past twelve months. Last week, KD offered drivers a 15.5 per cent pay increase over four years and an additional 8 percent over four years for Trainee Year 1 employees. Drivers rejected the offer, describing it as inadequate

The RTBU says its members want an increase that compensates for the rising cost of living and improves safety and working conditions. The union says working conditions have gone backwards since the NSW government privatised bus services.

The current industrial action, which also includes refusing to drive buses with less than a full tank of fuel or without a first aid kit on-board, and 12- and 24-hour strikes.

Keolis Downer is a multibillion-dollar transport company operating buses, trams and ferry networks across Asia Pacific. The NSW governments public transport model includes bus operations run by private conglomerates who operate for profit, and are funded by the taxpayer.

Mount Gambier nurses and midwives protest low wages and staff shortages

About 50 nurses and midwives protested outside the Mount Gambier Hospital two weeks ago over staffing shortages and pay. It followed a 4,000 strong demonstration on October 30 by Australian Nursing and Midwifery Union (ANMF) members outside the South Australian parliament.

ANMF members are in an enterprise agreement dispute with the South Australian Labor government and its failure to improve low wages and chronic staff shortages in the states public hospital system.

The ANMF says Mount Gambier Hospital, the states largest regional hospital, has approximately 400 staff and a vacancy rate of 80 that cannot be filled with the 60 casual or agency staff available in the area.

ANMF members have rejected the state governments offer of 13 percent over four years, a one-off bonus payment totaling $4,500, and other incentives. The union says the offer, which if accepted, would ensure its members remained amongst the lowest paid nurses and midwives in Australia, and does not address the questions of professional recognition and long-term career sustainability.

The ANMF says its Mount Gambier members are calling for an escalation of their industrial campaign on December 1 if the government does not offer a better deal.

Coca Cola locks out Richland maintenance workers

Last Friday Coca-Cola Europacific Partners locked out 34 maintenance workers at its Richlands facility in Queensland.

The lockout was in response to the decision of Communications, Electrical, Electronic, Energy, Information, Postal, Plumbing and Allied Services Union of Australia (CEPU) members to impose various bans.

The company is in dispute with its maintenance workers over a new enterprise agreement. While the previous deal expired in June, Coca Cola has refused to make an acceptable offer to its maintenance workforce.

On September 23, CEPU members overwhelmingly voted to take industrial action, including strikes, bans on overtime and the operation of some computer programs and other work. The CEPU says its members want wage and conditions parity with industry standard benchmarks.

The union, in line with its compliance with the pro-big business Fair Work Act, has not called on other unions at Coca Cola Europacific Partners to support the locked-out workers.

Queenslands Urban Utilities workers strike for better agreement

Over 160 Australian Services Union (ASU) members employed by Queensland water authority, Urban Utilities began industrial action last Wednesday, including strikes and bans on the issuing of permits, approvals and certifications.

The action follows months of deadlocked negotiations between the ASU and Urban Utilities over wages and conditions in a new enterprise deal.

Urban Utilities has offered a 12 percent pay rise over three years to its workers. This was rejected by ASU members who voted almost unanimously for industrial action.

The union estimates that the consumer price index rose in Brisbane, Queenslands capital, by 17 percent during the last enterprise deal but that members wages only increased by 10 percent under the previous agreement. The ASU members are demanding pay parity with Brisbane City Council, Urban Utilities largest local government council member.

Urban Utilities, which is owned by Brisbane, Ipswich, Scenic Rim, Somerset and Lockyer Valley councils, delivers water and sewerage services to 1.6 million Queenslanders.

Tasmanias public hospital scientists walk out for better enterprise deal

Public hospital scientists took one-hour strike action last week in Tasmania as part of their ongoing dispute with the state government.

On Monday, cardiac physiologists and neurophysiology scientists employed by the Royal Hobart Hospital walked out, followed by pathology and allied health staff at the Launceston General Hospital on Tuesday. On Wednesday medical imaging workers at the Royal Hobart Hospital struck for an hour. The striking workers are involved in an ongoing dispute with the Tasmanian Liberal government over wages and conditions in a new enterprise agreement.

The Health and Community Services Union (HACSU) members are fighting the state governments failure to address its chronic underfunding of public health services and the reduction of ongoing staff shortages and rostering shortfalls, causing delays to patient treatment.

This weeks industrial action follows union members overwhelming rejection of the governments 3 percent one-year wage rise. The government responded by threatening to withhold back pay if workers refuse to accept its offer. HACSU says further industrial action is being prepared.
VIENTIANE, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is assisting Laos in developing a sustainable, inclusive, and climate-resilient economy through its Climate Adaptation Investment Planning (CAIP) technical assistance program.

The CAIP initiative aims to strengthen the Lao government's capacity to identify, prioritize, and mobilize financing for climate adaptation projects using an integrated water resources management approach, Lao News Agency reported on Friday.

Implemented in collaboration with the Lao Ministry of Agriculture and Environment and the Lao Ministry of Finance, the program engages development partners and technical experts to advance climate resilience.

As part of the program, the two ministries, with technical support from ADB, conducted climate risk screenings and reviewed adaptation measures across 14 river basins. The findings will inform the selection of two priority basins for detailed climate risk and adaptation assessments and the identification of investment opportunities under the CAIP framework.

A workshop was held on Thursday in the Lao capital Vientiane, bringing together government agencies, development partners, and key stakeholders to review national adaptation strategies and river basin development plans, discuss the CAIP approach and climate risk screening results, and finalize the selection of two target river basins along with the next steps for implementation.

The workshop underscored ADB's commitment to helping Laos achieve its national adaptation goals and enhance climate resilience through integrated water resources management. 
BANGKOK, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Thailand's economy saw a marginal expansion in October on a monthly basis, driven by continued export growth along with increased foreign tourists and private consumption, the central bank said on Friday.

Exports, a key driver of the Southeast Asian country's economic growth, rose 0.7 percent compared to the previous month, led by sales of electronic and machinery products and electrical appliances, according to the Bank of Thailand.

Foreign arrivals picked up 11 percent due to higher numbers of tourists, particularly from short-haul markets, resulting in a rise in tourism receipts, said the central bank's senior director Pranee Sutthasri.

Private consumption improved 1.3 percent, partly owing to the government's economic measures, which also boosted activities in the service sector, Pranee told a news conference.

However, manufacturing output remained broadly unchanged, with higher electronics production offsetting a drop in petroleum output caused by temporary maintenance shutdowns, she said.

The Thai economic outlook shows signs of recovery, supported by the gradual resumption of industrial production, tourism expansion, and growth in electronic exports, the central bank noted. 
Hollywood legend Kevin Spacey has revealed that he is homeless, having lost his lavish Baltimore property to foreclosure while dealing with the soaring cost of the legal fees involved in defending himself against a spate of sexual assault allegations.

Spacey, 66, was once one of the most sought-after actors in the industry, enjoying a series of major blockbuster roles, including appearances in Se7en alongside Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman, and the sensationally popular political series House of Cards.

Most Read from MarketWatch

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dont miss: Heres whats worth streaming in November 2025 on Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max and more

But after several claims of sexual assault and misconduct began being levied against him in 2017, the actor became a persona non grata in Hollywooda stigma that has remained even after he was acquitted of all charges of sexual assault by a London court in 2023.

Hollywoods refusal to work with him during his six-year legal battle to clear his name coupled with the extraordinary cost of lawyers fees left Spacey in dire financial straits and in July 2024, he lost his palatial Baltimore mansion to foreclosure, having defaulted on his $20,000-a-month mortgage payments.

While Spacey initially fought back against the foreclosure auction of his property, which was purchased by real estate mogul Sam Asgari for $3.2 million, he was ultimately forced from the homeand has since struggled to secure another full-time residence.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Instead, Spacey admitted to The Telegraph, he has been living between Airbnb ABNB rentals and hotels, traveling to anywhere he is able to secure work, including a Cyprus nightclub, where he recently staged a musical performance for which spectators were charged up to $1,400 for a ticket.

Speaking to the outlet about his money struggles, the actor explained that he lost his home for one very simple reason: Because the costs over these last seven years have been astronomical. Ive had very little coming in and everything going out.

He added: Im living in hotels, Im living in Airbnbs, Im going where the work is. I literally have no home, thats what Im attempting to explain.

Describing his current financial situation as not great, Spacey said that he did manage to avoid filing for bankruptcy, although he conceded that it had been discussed as an option.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The majority of his worldly possessions are currently in storage while he continues to travel for any and every paying work opportunity, although he said he does hope at some point to earn enough money to settle down in a real home once more.

You get through it, he said. In weird ways, I feel Im back to where I first started, which is I just went where the work was. Everything is in storage, and I hope at some point, if things continue to improve, that Ill be able to decide where I want to settle down again.

Spaceys admission about his money woes comes just over one year after he was forced to move out of the Baltimore property, which he purchased for $5.65 million in 2017, the same year he was first accused of sexual misconduct.

At the time, representatives for the actor strongly denied that he had bought the home, with his then-manager, Evan Lowenstein, claiming that the condo belonged to him and not his client.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

However, when the property ended up on the auction block, Spaceys identity as its true owner was confirmed.

Asgari and Spacey soon became embroiled in a bitter spat over the actors apparent refusal to leave the property in the wake of the auction, during which Spacey accused the real estate mogul of bullying him.

Asgari initially came forward to accuse Spacey of refusing to vacate the propertyonly for the House of Cards actor to hit back with his own allegations that Asgari had failed to comply with the rules applicable to purchasers following a foreclosure sale.

That quarrel seemingly came to an end in February of this year when the Baltimore property was listed for $5.99 million, suggesting that Spacey had vacated the dwelling, leaving it free to find a new owner.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Yet that process would not prove to be easy. After three months on the market, the price of the dwelling was slashed by $1 milliononly to undergo an additional $500,000 price cut six weeks later.

Asgari eventually put the dwelling on the rental market with an asking price of $35,000 a month, before it was delisted altogether earlier this year.

More from Realtor.com: Call of Duty Creator Sells Lavish Brentwood Mansion Where He Dreamed Up the Hit Video Game for $22 Million

The impressive five-story abode, which is in the exclusive Pier Homes at the Harborview community, sits at the end of a pier and provides stunning views across the harbor.

The Baltimore townhome is located in the Harborview residential district overlooking the water. - istock

It is a combination of two townhouses and features six bedrooms, seven full bathrooms, and three half-baths.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Other amenities include a home theater, sauna, elevator, billiard room, and chefs kitchen. Multiple decks, including a 76-foot roof deck with a spa, offer residents the chance to enjoy panoramic views of the area.

The home is also equipped with a four-car garage.

Spacey first revealed in June 2024 that he was being forced to sell off the 9,000-square-foot dwelling after he was left nearly penniless from the sky-high cost of his legal fees for his 2023 sexual assault trial.

More from Realtor.com: Bruce Willis Daughter Rumer Breaks Down in Tears as She Lays Bare Toll of Being a Single Mom10 Months After Moving to Idaho

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He was cleared of all charges in the case, however, he later admitted during an interview with Piers Morgan in 2024 that he still owed a lot of legal bills that he has been unable to pay.

My house is being sold at auction. So I have to go back to Baltimore and put all my things in storage.  Im not quite sure where Im going to live now, he said during an interview on Piers Morgan Uncensored.

Spacey also admitted that he had come close to filing for bankruptcy on several occasions, but had sort of managed to dodge it, telling Morgan that his plan was to simply get back on the horse.

More from Realtor.com: Nations Largest Landlord To Pay $7 Million Settlement After States Accuse It of Using Algorithms To Drive Up Rents

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

However, his fight to return to the Hollywood saddle has not been without its difficultiesand has seen the actor taking on a much more unique array of jobs, including his singing gig in Cyprus, billed as Kevin Spacey: Songs & Stories, during which he performed a range of classic hits, including Thats Life and Bridge Over Troubled Water.

It is a far cry from the elite status Spacey, who has won two Academy Awards, once enjoyed as one of Hollywoods most acclaimed talents.

More from Realtor.com: Im 45 and I DIYed an $11,000 Tiki Bar With Help From YouTube and Neighbors

Still, the actor said he is using this time as an opportunity to explore new career paths, including his passion for music, something hed never before had the chance to really pursue.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The idea of combining stories on some level, along with music, and in many cases music that Ive never done before, songs Ive never sung but Ive wanted tomaybe in the shower, but never on a stage, he said. So it just sort of happened when I wanted to see, can I get up and sing for my supper again?

.

Most Read from MarketWatch
BEIJING, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- China calls on the United States to lift its illegal and unilateral sanctions imposed on Venezuela and do more to facilitate peace, stability and development in Latin America and the Caribbean region, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning said at a daily press briefing on Friday.

According to reports, the United States on Nov. 24 formally designated Cartel de los Soles as a foreign terrorist organization, levelling sanctions on the group, which it claimed includes Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and other high-ranking officials. The Venezuelan side said in a statement that it opposed such a move, calling it a ridiculous lie aimed at illegally meddling in Venezuela's internal affairs.

"China has always opposed unilateral sanctions that have no basis in international law and are not authorized by the United Nations Security Council, and opposes external forces interfering in Venezuela's internal affairs under any pretext," Mao said in response to a related query. 
Kourtney Kardashian recently learned something new about parenting and is now feeling a wave of guilt, admitting she had unknowingly been doing something wrong with all her children.

The Lemme co-founder appears fully immersed in motherhood, often sharing how she manages her responsibilities while also maintaining a close bond with her stepdaughter, Alabama.

However, while her motherhood journey continues to thrive, her brand Lemme is currently facing a legal battle over another company using the same name.

Kourtney Kardashian Feels Guilty Over Parenting Method

MEGA

Kourtney is admitting that there's one thing she now feels major mom guilt for after discovering she had been doing it wrong.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a recent episode of "The Kardashians," the Lemme co-founder hosted an event with parenting expert Erica Komisar, where they discussed breastfeeding.

During the conversation, Kourtney revealed that she often uses her phone while breastfeeding her baby son, Rocky Thirteen, now 2, a habit Komisar advises against.

"I mean, I did not know that you should not be on your phone while breastfeeding. Ive definitely done that with all kids, she admitted, per PEOPLE Magazine.

Emphasizing her surprise once more, the mom of four repeated that she truly had no idea: "I did not know the breastfeeding phone [thing], she said again. Now Im like, the guilt that I have. But its good, because you shouldnt be doing it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kourtney confessed that she had unknowingly done this with all her kids, highlighting just how oblivious she was to it at the time.

Kourtney Kardashian States Her Parenting Non-Negotiables

Xavier Collin/Image Press Agency / MEGA

Her guilt is understandable, especially considering how seriously she takes motherhood. During the Women's Wear Daily Beauty Inc. Awards in New York, Kourtney shared helpful insights into how she balances parenting with her personal well-being.

As reported by The Blast, the socialite revealed that aside from avoiding alcohol and coffee, her "non-negotiables" include "walking daily and taking my supplements, those are the two things. And getting at least eight hours of sleep."

Kourtney stressed the importance of consistency, explaining that a routine is key to maintaining wellness, even when her personal needs are overshadowed by caring for her kids. She also emphasized moderation, saying she believes true happiness comes from within.

Kourtney Kardashian Subtly Claps Back At Fan Who Trolls Her Child

Kourtneys recent bout of mom guilt came shortly after a fan criticized her for keeping her babys face private online.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Per The Blast, the eldest Kardashian posted an Instagram photo dump without showing Rockys face, which sparked irritation from one commenter.

"Still acting like we care what the kid looks like," the user wrote. Another follower quickly shut the troll down, saying, "This is a sign you care [by the way]." While Kourtney refused to engage directly, she showed her support by liking the comment defending her choice.

The 'KUWTK' Star's Super Mom Role Extends To Stepdaughter Alabama

Kourtneys nurturing nature isnt limited to her biological children. She also shares a loving relationship with her stepdaughter, Alabama Barker.

In an October episode of "The Kardashians," Kourtney joined Alabama to film an intro for her Twitch stream. During the shoot, the Lemme co-founder praised the closeness they have developed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Alabama and I are super close. Ive known her since she was 8 years old, the 46-year-old gushed. I love being there for her to support her. I love that she asked me, that she thinks Im cool enough to be in her video, she said, per The Blast.

Kourtney, who is stepmom to Travis Barkers three children, also shares Mason, Penelope, and Reign with ex Scott Disick. Last year, she welcomed her fourth child, Rocky Thirteen, with Travis.

Kourtney Kardashian Faces Legal Battle Over Her Brand Name

MEGA

While motherhood continues to play a major role in her life, Kourtney is also dealing with a business challenge as her company has become the center of a surprising trademark dispute.

Kourtneys Lemme brand evolved from a sleek wellness concept into a multimillion-dollar business. However, its success has drawn an unexpected challenger, another company named Lemme, based in Hong Kong and distributing products in the United States.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While Kourtneys line focuses on vitamin-infused supplements, the other company produces cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and nicotine-related products.

According to The Blast, both companies filed trademark applications with the United States Patent and Trademark Office, setting the stage for a legal clash over who has the rightful claim to the name.
Tony Germano, 55, was known for his voice work in various children's series.

His voice lent to the Portuguese dubbing for popular Nickelodeon show, Nicky, Ricky, Dicky & Dawn, as well as Disney's 2017 live-action Beauty and the Beast.

According to a representative for Germano, the actor tragically died on Wednesday, Nov. 26, 2025, after falling from a roof in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

"It is with deep sorrow that we confirm the passing of actor and voice artist Tony Germano," said the rep, per PEOPLE.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Tony suffered a fall at his residence and, unfortunately, did not survive his injuries."

They added: "We kindly ask for respect and understanding during this painful time for his family, friends, and colleagues. Tony leaves behind a legacy of dedication, generosity and immense talent that touched everyone who had the privilege of working with him. His absence will be deeply felt."

His credits also include Netflix's Go, Dog. Go!, Disney's Elena of Avalor, and The Muppets.

Germano is featured in several Brazilian films, including Labyrinth of Lost Boys, Phantom Summer, and An Unforgettable Year: Autumn.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Fellow Brazilian actor, Miguel Falabella, spoke to the privilege of working alongside Germano in a post shared to Instagram.

The Instagram of musical theater podcast, Musical Cast, also featured a tribute to Germano.

Per the translated post, Germano "devoted his entire life to theater."

They continued: "May you be up there making other stars laugh with you like you always made us laugh. Thank you for so much art and so much joy."

The late actor's stage credits include Phantom of the Opera, Jekyll & Hyde, Fiddler on the Roof, and Miss Saigon.

This story was originally published by Parade on Nov 28, 2025, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
(NewsNation)  Actor Tony Germano, whos appeared on Netflix and Nickelodeon projects, died Wednesday after he fell in Brazil. He was 55.

It is with deep sorrow that we confirm the passing of actor and voice artist Tony Germano on the morning of Wednesday, Nov. 26, Germanos representative told People magazine. Tony suffered a fall at his residence and, unfortunately, did not survive his injuries.

Simon Cowell rejects Liam Paynes death blame: You cant do that

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The rep added, We kindly ask for respect and understanding during this painful time for his family, friends, and colleagues. Tony leaves behind a legacy of dedication, generosity and immense talent that touched everyone who had the privilege of working with him. His absence will be deeply felt.

Black Friday

 Cyber Monday deals are live  check out the top options at Amazon

 Upgrade your Apple products while they are priced low for the holidays

 Top steals for less than $100 to make sure you have gifts for everyone

BestReviews is reader-supported and may earn an affiliate commission.

The fall occurred at his home in Sao Paulo.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

HGTVs Hilary Farr responds to fake AI post, confirms she is alive and well

Germano provided dubbed Portuguese voice work for Nickelodeons Nicky, Ricky and Dicky & Dawn as well as Netflixs Go, Dog, Go! Hes also worked with Disney, appearing on the soundtrack of 2017s live-action Beauty and the Beast.

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.
Queen Letizia reached for one of the Spanish crowns rarest tiaras on Wednesday night, unveiling the Cartier Pearl and Diamond Tiara during a state dinner at the Royal Palace in Madrid. She and King Felipe VI were joined by Germanys President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and First Lady Elke Budenbender, who are in Spain for a three-day state visit  an occasion that brought out pieces seldom seen beyond the royal vaults.

The tiara, commissioned by Cartier in 1920 for Queen Victoria Eugenie of Spain, was the nights defining piece. The piece, made in platinum, is shaped around eight luminous pearls framed by diamond scrollwork  a composition Queen Ena once personalized by swapping the pearls for emeralds. Since 2018, Queen Letizia has been the only royal to wear the tiara.

More from WWD

Queen Letizia of Spain wears the Cartier Pearl and Diamond Tiara as she attends a dinner gala at the Royal Palace on Nov. 26, 2025 in Madrid. rare royal tiaras, Spanish royal tiaras, Queen Letizia style, royal jewelry

The Spanish royal balanced the rare tiara with a black Carolina Herrera gown, one of her go-to designers. The piece featured a square neckline and short sleeves finished in black beading. She added diamond drop earrings from the royal collection.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Queen Letizias hair  a low, polished chignon  held the tiara high on its frame, mirroring how Queen Ena traditionally wore the piece in portraits. The only hit of color came from the red-and-gold sash of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany, worn as protocol for the evenings diplomatic setting by both her and her husband.

King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain wait for President Steinmeier and his wife in the Royal Palace before a dinner. Federal President Steinmeier and his wife are on a three-day state visit to Spain. Carolina Herrera gown, rare Tiara, Cartier Tiara, Cartier Pearl and Diamond Tiara

While Letizia has worn several historic pieces from the Spanish vaults over the years  including the Cartier Loop Tiara, the Prussian Diamond Tiara and the Spanish Floral Tiara  the Cartier Pearl and Diamond Tiara remains one of the collections most seldom-chosen designs. Its reappearance marked one of the tiaras few public outings in recent years.

MADRID, Spain.- DECEMBER 03: HRH Princess Letizia attend the Gala Dinner in honour of the President of The Philippines Gloria Macapagal and her husband Jose Miguel Arroyo, at the Royal Palace on December 3, 2007 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Lalo Yasky/WireImage)

MADRID, SPAIN - APRIL 27: Princess Letizia of Spain attends a Gala Dinner honouring the French President Nicolas Sarkozy at the Royal Palace on April 27, 2009 in Madrid, Spain (Photo by Rogelio Pinate-Pool/Getty Images)

COPENHAGEN, DENMARK - APRIL 15: Queen Letizia of Spain attends a gala dinner at Christiansborg Palace on the eve of the 75th Birthday of Queen Margrethe II of Denmark on April 15, 2015 in Copenhagen, Denmark. (Photo by Julian Parker/Mark Cuthbert/UK Press via Getty Images)

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

View Gallery

Launch Gallery: Queen Letizia's Style Through the Years: The Best Looks So Far [PHOTOS]

Best of WWD

Sign up for WWD's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
For Thanksgiving, Sami Sheen shared pictures wearing a turkey hat that reminds fans of Monica Geller. It is a popular scene from Friends where the character inserts her head inside a turkey to apologize to her boyfriend, Chandler Bing. In the photos shared by Sheen on Instagram, she and a friend wore plush turkey hats and struck some goofy poses.

Sami Sheen stuns with a turkey hat

Check out Sami Sheens Thanksgiving photos on Instagram right here:

The turkey hat was the obvious showpiece of Sheens Thanksgiving outfit. It was a plush, golden-brown novelty cap that was shaped like a roasted turkey. The cap was complete with little wings. and also has white drumstick tips sticking up.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As for her outfit, the OnlyFans creator opted for a casual look, including a light beige, long-sleeved knit sweater. She also wore a high-waisted mini skirt in bold zebra print, adding contrast to the neutral top. Happy save a turkey day, Sami Sheen captioned the Instagram post.

Interestingly, fans were quick to compare the models turkey hat to a popular scene from the iconic sitcom Friends, where Monica Geller is willing to do anything just to get a laugh out of Chandler Bing and apologize to him. Thus, she wears a turkey on her head and dances in front of him.

Meanwhile, many fans showered praise on Sheens Instagram post, with one commenting, Ugh turkeylicious. Another added, U guys are adorable omg.

Originally reported by Preksha Sharma on Mandatory.

The post Sami Sheen Looks Cute With Turkey Hat appeared first on theFashionSpot.
It has been over a year since Shannen Doherty's passing, but her estate continues to fight in her name.

The late actress's estate and her ex-husband, Kurt Iswarienko, are currently butting heads in a legal battle over unfulfilled agreements from their divorce settlement.

Shannen Doherty took her final breath on July 13, 2024, a day after signing an agreement to finalize the end of her marriage to Kurt Iswarienko. However, some terms have not been honored.

Shannen Doherty's Estate Wants Her Ex-Husband To Keep His End Of The Bargain

NEILL J SCHUTZER/2010 RAMEY PHOTO/ MEGA

According to new legal documents, Chris Cortazzo, the trustee of the Shannen Doherty Family Trust, called out her ex-husband for failing to fulfill the terms of their divorce settlement. Cortazzo filed the papers to become the Successor in Interest to Decedent.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Cortazzo needed the new status to enforce the judgment between Doherty and Iswarienko. He filed the legal documents on November 24, including the former couple's divorce judgment as an exhibit to showcase Iswarienko's refusal to honor the agreement.

The judgment obtained by The Daily Mail stated that Iswarienko would put the former couple's Texas home on the market by April 1, 2025. Once sold, he was to "equally divide the net proceeds" with Doherty's estate, but he had allegedly refused to list the property for sale.

The Late Actress' Ex Was Accused Of Owing Her Estate

MEGA

Besides failing to list the Texas home for sale, Iswarienko was also accused of refusing "to return Decedent's items of personal property." He allegedly owed Doherty's estate money after agreeing to buy out the late actress's interest in her Mooney-20 Airplane for $100,000 following the sale of an airplane hangar.

"Upon the sale of the Hangar in August 2024, one month after Decedent's death, Respondent unilaterally withheld $50,274 from his payment to Decedent's estate," the legal documents claimed. Cortazzo added that Iswarienko's "payment is now 15 months delinquent."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Additionally, Iswarienko was meant to provide a list of the works he produced during his marriage to Doherty and copies of his work published during their union by September 1, 2024. However, none of these requests have been honored in the past 14 months.

The 'Beverly Hills, 90210 ' Alum Was Granted A Posthumous Victory In Her Divorce Case

MEGA

As stated, Doherty had signed a divorce settlement a day before her passing in July 2024. The Blast reported that she died legally married to Iswarienko and should have remained linked to him following her death under the law.

When someone embroiled in a divorce proceeding dies, the family law court loses jurisdiction over the case under the law in California and most states. The case gets transferred to the probate court, but probate judges do not finalize divorces.

In a typical case, Doherty would have died legally married to Iswarienko; however, she regained her single status after her death. The family law judge presiding over her case had signed the divorce papers, and the divorce judgment was posthumously entered.

The Decedent's Pals Revealed Her Final Plans

MEGA

Following Doherty's passing, her "Charmed" co-stars made a tribute episode for the "House of Halliwell" podcast to honor her memory. The Blast covered the story, reporting that they reflected on her life, particularly her final wishes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Holly Marie Combs revealed that Doherty never believed she was going to die as soon as she did, recalling how she was so full of life and ready to make new memories. "That was her goal. That was her dream life. Her next trip was going to be to Italy," she claimed.

"She was considering moving to Italy," Combs added. Drew Fuller echoed similar sentiments, claiming that he and Doherty had made plans to travel the world. He noted that she had contemplated building a new house in Tennessee or Italy.

Shannen Doherty's Mom Reflected On Her Heartbreaking Loss

MEGA

The decedent's pals weren't the only ones who honored her memory, as her mom shed more light on her life and years-long battle with cancer. The Blast shared that Rosa Doherty had reflected on her daughter's passing on a September 2024 episode of the "Let's be Clear" podcast.

Rosa co-hosted the episode with Cortazzo, each sharing their favorite memories about Shannen. The grieving mother noted that it was a blessing to have these memories to remember her daughter by, but they were not enough to soften the blow of losing a child.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The late actress's mom noted that no parent should live longer than their children, describing Shannen's death as "such a loss." Rosa explained that she could break down at any moment but tried to remind herself that everything that happened was God's plan.

Will Shannen Doherty's ex-husband fulfill the terms of their divorce settlement or go down the legal battle route?
The relatives of Jeffrey Epstein victim Virginia Giuffre are apparently fighting over her estate. The dispute is over the deceased authors multimillions that she received from a settlement with the former Prince Andrew, now known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor.

Virginia was a sex trafficking victim of Jeffreys from when she was 16. She received an estimated $16 million in a civil suit with Andrew in 2022. Because there was no valid will, Australian intestacy laws will divide her estate.

Virginia Giuffre left behind a multimillion-dollar fortune

Photo Credit: Heather Diehl/Getty Images

Virginia was just 16 years old when her association with Jeffrey and his cohort, Ghislaine Maxwell, occurred. In her posthumous memoir, she describes her three alleged sexual encounters with the former prince. In an excerpt from her upcoming book Nobodys Girl: A Memoir of Surviving Abuse and Fighting for Justice, Virginia recalls meeting Andrew for the first time in 2001.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to RadarOnline, Virginia received the payout through compensation funds and civil settlement, including $500,000 from Jeffrey in 2009. Andrew denied any wrongdoing.

A family acquaintance said: Everyone knew this would be messy the moment it became clear she died without a will. There is a lot of money, a lot of emotion and no agreement on what she would have wanted.

This past June, Virginias two oldest children, Christian, 19, and Noah, 18, who live with their father, successfully applied to the court to be appointed administrators of the estate. The dispute is between these children, their father, their mothers estranged husband and Virginias extended family.

Virginias half-brothers requested taking over her charity, Speak Out, Act, Reclaim, for which $3 million of Andrews settlement had been allocated. Family members are opposing this. They seek a nonprofit professional who can govern the charity. The money is being held in an escrow account and handled by a third party.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Along with the money, Virginia owns four properties, which further complicates the court fight.

Virginia allegedly died by suicide April 25 of this year

TELL US  WHO SHOULD RECEIVE VIRGINIAS SIZEABLE ESTATE?

The post Virginia Giuffres Family Allegedly Fighting Over Her Fortune From Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor appeared first on Reality Tea.
Young and single, she flies in from the United States to France for work and finds a whirlwind romance instead. Yes, yes, we've seen this one already.

Except that no, this isn't "Emily in Paris", but Netflix's latest rom-com film with a Christmas-branded take on some less-than-original tearjerking schmaltz.

The story

Junior manager Sydney is sent to Paris to help her company acquire the prestigious champagne label Chateau Cassell just before Christmas.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Exploring the festively decorated city on her own with a promise to keep her head down ("I don't have time for sightseeing"), she soon meets the Frenchman Henri in a bookshop.

Between the Eiffel Tower and a bridge over the Seine they spend magical romantic hours together before the bubble bursts the next morning when they both make a surprise discovery that impacts her work in Paris.

If the story feels familiar so far, then the rest of the film will feel very predictable.

The characters

Minka Kelly, crowned Sexiest Woman Alive in 2010, plays Sydney with an innocently sultry glance and pleasant smile. Opposite her, Tom Wozniczka is an easy-on-the-eyes Henri.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Their characters yearn for an orderly happiness without drama and are a touch strait-laced. That is fair and true to life, but for outsiders it is a bit like listening to the neighbours' pillow talk, only mildly exciting.

Champagne magnate Hugo Cassell (Thibault de Montalembert) is fatherly and well-meaning, while the German Otto (Flula Borg) comes across as stiff and overly correct. He is Sydneys rival for the champagne brand, as is the distinguished Frenchwoman Brigitte.

Stirring things up is Roberto (Sean Amsing), a gay millionaire who also wants the company because he loves serving the noble fizz at his parties.

The script and the setting

The film radiates a rose-tinted plush cosiness. The twinkling Eiffel Tower is present, as are Pariss glittering lights and of course the snow-dusted baroque little chateau of the Cassell family, where patriarch Hugo plans to decide on a buyer.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It is a setting and film far removed from the worlds problems.

The script, meanwhile, holds plenty of howlers and groaners, some more, some less cringe-inducing. A selection:

"Chateau Cassell turns my troubles into bubbles." (Roberto on why he wants to buy the brand.)

"With over a thousand varieties in France alone, cheese is more than food. Its part of our culture, our history. To get to know France, its to get to know and love cheese." (during a tasting)

"We have a saying in Germany: 'Alles hat ein Ende, nur die Wurst hat zwei'. Which is 'Everything has an end, except for sausage, which has two.'" (Otto trying to be funny.)

"Champagne problems? It just means your problems arent really that bad. Most people would feel lucky to have your worries." (Sydney on her experiences in France.)

"Sometimes, you can live a whole life in just one day. I had a great life today." (Henri to Sydney on their first evening.)

How does it make you feel?

Like you've drunk a bit too much mulled wine, given nearly two hours of sugar-sweet romance. In return your head feels pleasantly empty and ready for dreams of sparkling lights and Christmas romance.
Its fitting that, as 82 million Americans travel home for Thanksgiving, a stunner of a Taiwanese movie is dropping on Netflix, offering escape to a world of neon lights and night markets, moped rides and drunken romance.

What better way to avoid your own family than to cozy up with this one  three generations of women so accustomed to hustling for survival that even the cutest little girl in the world feels compelled to engage in some incredibly cute petty theft?

Left-Handed Girl is the first solo feature from Anora director Sean Bakers longtime collaborator Shih-Ching Tsou, and Taiwans submission to the 98th Academy Awards. And even the opening credits raise a hint of mystery. Names play out across the bright colors of a kaleidoscope being wielded by 5-year-old I-Jing (Nina Ye), our adorable, unreliable narrator. It feels like a magical place, she says, as her familys minivan speeds toward their new home in Taipei.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The looks on the faces of her mother and college-age sister suggest a more complicated reality, but the joy of this film is seeing so much of it through I-Jings unjaded eyes. Taipei really does seem magical when experienced by someone 3 feet tall.

Our trio seems to be starting over from rock bottom. Their minimalist new apartment is smaller than the one they were forced to leave, we learn, because the girls father abandoned them. Their perpetually cashed-strapped mother, Shu-Fen (veteran actress Janel Tsai) is trying her hand at opening a noodle stand in the night market. Rebellious I-Ann (sensational acting discovery Shih-Yuan Ma), decides theres better money to be had at one of Taipeis ubiquitous betel nut stands, as one of the scantily clad beauties selling the addictive stimulant to taxi drivers from neon-lit roadside stands. She also sometimes lets her deadbeat boss have sex with her, with all the enthusiasm of checking her email.

Meanwhile, a blissfully unaffected I-Jing gets to use the night market as her personal playground, running around with an abandon that would send most American parents into cardiac arrest, as a community of shopkeepers watches over her. Her greatest hardship is being babysat by her grandfather: He smells like stinky tofu!

The turning point for our tiny heroine comes when her superstitious grandfather chastises her for using her left hand, telling her its the devils hand. Shame keeps I-Jing up at night, until she decides to put her evil appendage to use, going on shoplifting sprees around the market, and amassing a pile of trinkets and toys her family would never be able to afford. Shes not doing anything wrong; her devil-hand is! The sequences are exhilarating, shot at her eye level, with just the right freneticism to feel I-Jings adrenaline from her newfound illicit hobby pulsating through the screen. But theres a pernicious sadness to the shenanigans, in how early this little girl is taught to think her differences make her flawed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This movie has been 25 years in the making. Tsou was essentially I-Jing  her grandfather shamed her for using her left hand, and like many girls in Taiwan, she was reeducated to use her right hand. While they were students at the New School in New York, Tsou told Baker the story, and the two of them traveled to Taipei in 2001, eager to map out a movie but unable to figure out the financing. Instead, they co-directed 2004s Take Out. Tsous since produced Bakers features Starlet, Tangerine, The Florida Project and Red Rocket. Baker returned the favor as a producer on Left-Handed Girl, which he co-wrote with Tsou and also edited.

Centering a film on a child is often a recipe for disaster, or at least cheesiness. But Tsou and Baker already had practice depicting a heartbreaking loss of innocence in The Florida Project. This film is sweeter, and far less harrowing, but it has the same nonjudgmental gaze and the verite camera stylings, even though Baker was shooting Anora during production and never set foot on set. The films dazzling visuals are all Tsou  she set up a working noodle stand in the real Tonghua Night Market and ran around with a skeleton team of five so as not to attract attention, creating incredible lived-in cinematography, captured all on location and using only iPhones.

Every frame bursts with life. But what really elevates the story are the darker themes peeking in. Every woman on-screen is scrambling to scrape together a living, including Shu-Fens mother, whos running a light passport-fraud ring out of her living room, in a society that still favors men  no matter how undeserving they may be or how badly they fail. (The one bright spot is Johnny, the fanny-pack-wearing doofus, played with endearing sweetness by Teng-Hui Huang, who runs a stand next to Shu-Fens selling magic erasers and phone chargers, and whos clearly in love with her.)

Most intriguing is Mas portrayal of I-Ann. Recently awarded best new performer at the Golden Horse Awards (the Mandarin-language equivalent of the Academy Awards), shes a model who Tsou found on Instagram and is a riveting natural. Her character is the embodiment of how these women have the cards stacked against them  too old to be innocent, too young to carry this much weight. A shocking revelation rearranges the viewers brain about her anger toward the men in her life.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In the end, the movies title feels less like a descriptor than a battle cry. In Left-Handed Girl, Tsou has made a love letter to nonconformists, and to the freedom one can feel when you simply stop caring about who the world wants you to be.

R. Streaming on Netflix. For sexual content, language and too much luscious food porn. In Mandarin with English subtitles. 109 minutes.
HALIFAX  20 years after Shaun Majumders hilarious appearance at curlings Olympic Trials, I was privileged to be invited to a live taping of the CBC comedy show 22 Minutes.

The Lighthouse Arts Theatre, located almost literally beside the Scotiabank Centre  once again hosting this years Trials  was packed (there were numerous curling fans in attendance) and the show, which aired Tuesday night on CBC, was a riot.

Wayne Middaugh was left speechless

For those unaware, 22 Minutes is Canadas long-running political satire show with hints of Saturday Night Live thrown in.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As it turns out, 22 Minutes attempted to film a learn to curl piece at this weeks Trials, however there were too m any variables at play to make this happen. In the end, Rachel Homan, Brad Gushue and Brad jacobs were filmed for a potential appearance for an upcoming episode.

Things were different 20 years ago. Then known as This Hour Has 22 Minutes, the cast featured a sportscaster character, Raj Binder, portrayed by actor/comedian Shaun Majumder and Curling Canada allowed him to run wild at the Trials during round robin play.

Binder was in the tunnel with the athletes before being piped on to the ice surface.

Raj of 22 Minutes

Then he was on the carpet, right next to the ice, interviewing players during their practice sessions. He baffled and bewildered, and openly mocked some of them  all in good fun, of course.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The profusely sweating Binder then moved into the seats, inviting fans to help him create his own Russ Howard-esque curling screams.

He finished his segment in exclusive players seating, in the front row beside an end sheet, precisely as Howard unleashed an epic howl to his Team Gushue brushers.

Eight years later, Will Ferrells Anchorman character  Ron Burgundy  attended the opening draw of the 2013 Olympic Trials in Winnipeg. Ferrells appearance was live, and funny, but Binders more low-key appearance is still remembered with affection.

Burgundy with Glenn Howard  Michael Burns-Curling Canada

(Ferrell was hyped in advance and the gig proved to be a bit of a nightmare for the event organizers, possibly leading to 22 Minutes limitations at this years Trials.)

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Majumders segment aired in December of 2005 but had not been seen since  until 18 years later, when The Curling News reached out to the showrunners.

The folks at 22 Minutes graciously offered to supply the segment for exclusive hosting on The Curling News YouTube page, where it has logged more than 35,000 views.

On this 20th anniversary of the segment, and my first live show taping, Id like to once again thank 22 Minutes and congratulate them on another 20 years  33 years in total  of excellent comedic craft.
KUALA LUMPUR, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- The majority of Malaysians believe that the ASEAN Summit 2025 will bring tangible benefits to the nation, according to a survey from the UCSI Poll Research Center.

The research center said in a statement on Thursday that younger Malaysians aged between 18 and 34 are the most positive, with 66 percent believing that the summit will result in favorable trade agreements and better job opportunities.

The survey also showed that 61 percent viewed the summit positively and exactly 50 percent believed that the decisions made at the summit would impact them.

However, only 38 percent believed that ASEAN economic cooperation would reduce the daily cost of living.

On ASEAN's priorities, 44 percent listed the reduction in cost of living in the region as their top concern, followed closely by job creation at 41 percent.

A coordinated effort to combat scams and crime was chosen by 9 percent while climate change and environmental issues lagged at 1 percent.

Malaysia recently hosted the 47th ASEAN Summit and its related meetings. 
Now that Tina Knowles has revealed that she's a fan of Ginny & Georgia, Brianne Howey would like to find a role for her in season 4.

"I freaked out about Tina's whole entire family [watching the show]," Howey, 36, exclusively told Us Weekly while promoting her partnership with Shutterfly about how she found out that Beyonces mother, 71, enjoyed the show. "I couldn't contain myself."

Howey, who plays Georgia on the Netflix series, said it is "always surprising" when celebrities show support for Ginny & Georgia. "Leslie Bibb is a fan of the show and I just binged The White Lotus," she added. "So I was elated to hear that."

Advertisement Advertisement

As Howey currently films season 4, she didn't rule out possible cameos.

Ginny and Georgia Cast: See the Hit Netflix Shows Stars Then and Now

"That's what's so fun about this show. Truly the possibilities are endless," she noted. "I have to hand it to our writers and our creator where they created a whole new genre where anything goes and it still feels very earned and justified."

Howey continued: "Is it too much of an ask to see if Tina Knowles wants to come on the show? I'm ready. Maybe she'll let me do her hair."

Ginny & Georgia, which premiered in 2021, follows a young single mother who moves her family to a new place after running away from her past. The Netflix series stars Howey, Antonia Gentry, La Torraca, Felix Mallard, Sara Waisglass, Scott Porter and Raymond Ablack.

Courtesy of Brooke Palmer/ Netflix/ Everett Collection

"The ending for season 3, I was pretty shocked. [Now] reading every episode, the writers blow me away. I'm so grateful to be part of this incredible storytelling," Howey teased to Us about where the story goes after Georgia's surprise pregnancy. "The ending for season 3 couldn't set us up more perfectly for where season 4 is."

Advertisement Advertisement

Howey had high hopes for her character going into the next season.

"Georgia probably needs to mend her soul a little bit after 3. So those were my hopes [for season 4]," she teased. "In a dream world, I would like Georgia to be on the right side of history with her children. I really want her to do right by them, rectify as much as possible and show that it's possible to change."

Which Ginny and Georgia Stars Are  And Arent  Returning for Season 4 After Pregnancy Twist?

She continued: "It's a dream come true [working on the show]. I've never been in the position of getting to be a part of a season 4 before. It's an enormous privilege and it's not something that we take lightly. I think I can speak for the whole cast when I say when we see those [viewership numbers] come out, it motivates us to ensure that our next season is also hitting all of the same spots and is as fulfilling. So everyone's working really hard and is so excited and really kind of just riding the high from the positive feedback."

Advertisement Advertisement

Howey is also gearing up for the holidays, which she is celebrating with husband Matt Ziering and their daughter. The actress credited Shutterfly for making this year easier when it comes to finding the perfect gift.

"I truly wouldn't be able to even manage gifting throughout the holiday season  while working  without something as simple as Shutterfly," she told Us. "It's probably the most authentic partnership there is for me. I will be using Shutterfly all holiday season anyway."

Ginny & Georgia is currently streaming on Netflix.
Fans tuning in on Thursday, expecting a new episode of Georgie & Mandys First Marriage, were left hanging because the show is on a brief Thanksgiving break.

Rather than airing Season 2, Episode 7, the network has paused, giving the cast and audience a holiday break.

Heres what to know about the pre-emptive pause and when the series picks back up.

Why Georgie & Mandys First Marriage Season 2 didnt air a new episode this week

CBS shook up its usual Thursday lineup this week, trading out Georgie & Mandy for some primetime hoops. Instead of the sitcoms regular slot, the network aired a live NCAA showdown between Duke and Arkansas, starting at 8 p.m. ET and running straight through the hour the show airs typically.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As a result, Thursdays new episode was pre-empted entirely. The scheduling switch-up isnt random at all. Georgie & Mandys First Marriage loves to line its mini-breaks with big U.S. holidays, and Thanksgiving week is prime time for that.

The show did the same thing in Season 1, serving a festive episode right around this stretch. That one even brought familiar Young Sheldon faces like Mary and Missy for a post-George family gathering. So this quick timeout is on brand for the series holiday rhythm.

But for this holiday cycle (2025), the producers opted not to re-create a Thanksgiving episode. Instead, theyre opting for a quick holiday timeout and jumping back in next Thursday.

Season 2, Episode 7, titled A Bus Bench and Faith out the Wazoo, drops on December 4, 2025, and its set to pick the drama right back up.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Expect sparks to fly again between Audrey and Mary, plus fresh headaches for Georgie and Mandy concerning the tire shop and their families.

This mini-pause is a generic network practice. Big holiday weeks usually get taken over by live sports, and no sitcom wants to compete with the Thanksgiving broadcast.

Since Georgie & Mandys First Marriage has been airing nonstop since its October 2025 premiere, this quick breather gives the audience a moment to catch their breath before the next chapter comes.

The post Why No New Georgie & Mandys First Marriage Episode Aired on Nov. 27 appeared first on ComingSoon.net - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More.
The "Star Trek" franchise is known for prompting themes of unity and overcoming cultural differences, but its political commentary has sometimes caused controversy. Take, for instance, "The High Ground" episode from "Star Trek: The Next Generation" Season 3, which finds Patrick Stewart's Jean-Luc Picard and his USS Enterprise crew delivering supplies to Rutia IV, a planet ravaged by civil war. The premise isn't unusual for a "Star Trek" storyline, but a scene during the hour referenced a real-world hot-button issue at the time it aired, leading to the episode being banned in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

The moment in question arrives when Lieutenant Commander Data (played by Brent Spiner) mentions Ireland and Northern Ireland becoming unified in 2024, citing it as an example of politically motivated violence actually achieving its goals. Bear in mind, the episode was released in 1990, when the Troubles  a violent, 30-year conflict centered around the Irish Republican Army's (IRA) attempt to end British rule in Northern Ireland  were far from resolved.

British and Irish broadcasters refused to air the episode in its original format. Some, such as Sky, showed an edited version a couple of years later, while the BBC waited and aired it just once, in 2007.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Read more: SNL Season 51 Cast: Who's New, Who's Returning And Who's Departing

Star Trek: TNG didn't set out to cause controversy with The High Ground

Data staring into the distance on Star Trek: The Next Generation - Paramount Television

"The High Ground" deals with a group of terrorists who want the Federation to help them break free from a governmental regime they oppose. The conflict between the warring parties on Rutia IV has some parallels with the Troubles, but the allegorical elements could apply to any violent dispute between governments and rebel groups.

Writer Melinda M. Snodgrass has said she didn't learn about "The High Ground" being banned until long after the fact. "We became aware of it later... and there isn't much you can do about it," the writer told the BBC. "Writing for television is like laying track for a train that's about 300 feet behind you. You really don't have time to stop."

Enjoyed this article? Sign up to TVLine's free newsletter, and add us as a preferred search source for the latest in TV, streaming and movie news.

Read the original article on TVLine.
Key Takeaways

Many Asian countries offer beautiful landscapes, delicious food, rich history and culture, and a friendly atmosphere for retirees seeking destinations abroad.

Monthly living costs in these countries range from under $300 to $600 (excluding rent)up to four times cheaper than in the U.S.

Your dollar can stretch three to four times farther in Asia than in the U.S. In India, you can live comfortably on about $270 a month, excluding rent. In Thailand, about $600 a month gets you beach access, excellent street food, and world-class health care. And in Vietnam, $350 covers your monthly expenses in a country where a full meal costs less than a Starbucks latte.

These destinations arent just less costly, but offer stunning landscapes, rich cultures, and safety levels that rival Western nations, plus visa programs tailored to retirees and remote workers. If youre hoping to make your retirement savings last far longeror simply want a higher quality of life for lessthese Asian destinations deliver affordability and adventure.

Thailand

Dragonite_East / Getty Images Khao Sok National Park features limestone "karsts" rising from Cheow Lan Lake, one of Thailand's protected natural areas that draws retirees and digital nomads to the country's interior beyond the famous beaches. Khao Sok National Park features limestone "karsts" rising from Cheow Lan Lake, one of Thailand's protected natural areas that draws retirees and digital nomads to the country's interior beyond the famous beaches.

Why? Beaches along 2,000 miles of coastline, modern hospitals with English-speaking doctors at one-third Western costs, a year-round warm climate, and extensive infrastructure in cities like Chiang Mai and Bangkok.

Visa options : Retirement visa (50+), tourist visa extendable to 60-90 days, and, for digital nomads, the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV).

Estimated cost of living: $600 (Here and below, the cost of living is estimated for one person per month, without rent.)

Vietnam

tawatchaiprakobkit / Getty Images Hoi An's UNESCO World Heritage ancient town preserves traditional architecture dating to the 15th century, offering foreign residents a walkable riverside community with French colonial influences and modern amenities. Hoi An's UNESCO World Heritage ancient town preserves traditional architecture dating to the 15th century, offering foreign residents a walkable riverside community with French colonial influences and modern amenities.

Why? Rapid economic growth, UNESCO World Heritage sites including Ha Long Bay and Hoi An, French colonial architecture, one of Asia's lowest crime rates, and coastal cities with modern amenities.

Visa options: Vietnam offers a 90-day visa for travelers. It doesnt specifically have a retirement or digital nomad visa, but this can be worked around by establishing or investing in a Vietnamese business or securing a business visa.

Estimated cost of living: $350.



Malaysia

wichianduangsri / Getty Images Kuala Lumpur's Petronas Towers dominate a skyline that reflects Malaysia's status as one of Southeast Asia's most developed economies, with English widely spoken and world-class health care. Kuala Lumpur's Petronas Towers dominate a skyline that reflects Malaysia's status as one of Southeast Asia's most developed economies, with English widely spoken and world-class health care.

Why? English is an official language, Kuala Lumpur is among Asia's most livable cities, and tropical rainforests cover 60% of the country.

Visa Options : Malaysia has specific visa programs for retirees and digital nomads, while travelers generally use short-term tourist visas that last up to 90 days.

Estimated cost of living: $450.



Indonesia

Tuul & Bruno Morandi /Getty Images The 17th-century Ulun Danu Beratan Temple sits on Bali's Lake Bratan at 4,000 feet elevation, where cooler mountain climates provide an alternative to the island's tropical coastal regions popular with expatriates. The 17th-century Ulun Danu Beratan Temple sits on Bali's Lake Bratan at 4,000 feet elevation, where cooler mountain climates provide an alternative to the island's tropical coastal regions popular with expatriates.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Why? With more than 17,000 islands offering diverse climates and lifestyles, Bali boasts an established tourist community featuring Western amenities, volcanic landscapes, and equatorial weather with consistently warm temperatures ranging from 80F to 90F year-round.

Visa options : The tourist visa is valid for 60 days and can be extended twice. There's also a retirement visa for individuals aged 55 and older, as well as a digital nomad visa specifically designed for remote workers.

Estimated cost of living: $375.

Philippines

Marco Bottigelli / Getty Images A woman bamboo rafting through Bohol's Loboc River showcases the Philippines' 7,600 islands, where English proficiency and Spanish colonial heritage create cultural familiarity for Western expatriates. A woman bamboo rafting through Bohol's Loboc River showcases the Philippines' 7,600 islands, where English proficiency and Spanish colonial heritage create cultural familiarity for Western expatriates.

Why? English is an official language and widely spoken; 7,600 islands provide endless beach access, Manila offers international connections with direct flights to major cities, and Spanish and American influences provide familiar cultural touchstones for Westerners.

Visa options : The Philippines offers visas for travelers and retirees aged 60 or above, and in 2025, it introduced a specific visa for digital nomads.

Estimated cost of living: $410.

Cambodia

Martin Puddy / Getty Images Siem Reap's jungle beyond this infinity pool shows the natural beauty near available near Angkor Wat, where dollar-denominated pricing and relatively low property costs attract long-term foreign residents. Siem Reap's jungle beyond this infinity pool shows the natural beauty near available near Angkor Wat, where dollar-denominated pricing and relatively low property costs attract long-term foreign residents.

Why? The U.S. dollar is the de facto currency (eliminating exchange rate risk), and Phnom Penh has minimal bureaucracy for long-term stays and a rapidly developing infrastructure.

Visa options : Cambodia offers travelers an extendable 30-day visa and for retirees with enough funds a one-year renewable visa. As of 2025, there's no digital nomad visa, and many remote workers use the renewable ordinary traveler visa and then extend it to an EB business visa.

Estimated cost of living: $450.

Laos

zhouyousifang / Getty Images Scenes like this one, ang Vieng's karst mountains along the Nam Song River have long drawn visitors to this landlocked nation. Scenes like this one, ang Vieng's karst mountains along the Nam Song River have long drawn visitors to this landlocked nation.

Why? Less developed than its neighbors, Laos has fewer tourists, Mekong River access, a French colonial influence in Vientiane and Luang Prabang, and Buddhist temples throughout the country.

Visa options : For digital nomads and retirees, there are no specific visas; long-term stays are generally pursued through LA-B2 business visas arranged via a sponsor or agency.

Estimated cost of living: $375.

Sri Lanka

John Crux Photography / Getty Images Wijaya Beach on Sri Lanka's southern coast remains relatively undeveloped compared to neighboring beach destinations, offering solitude and lower costs just hours from Colombo's international airport. Wijaya Beach on Sri Lanka's southern coast remains relatively undeveloped compared to neighboring beach destinations, offering solitude and lower costs just hours from Colombo's international airport.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Why? The island nation has about 1,000 miles of coastline, eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, tea plantations in the cooler hill country, and Colombo's international airport connects to major Asian and Middle Eastern hubs.

Visa options : The most straightforward approach is to enter on a tourist visa, which lasts 30 days but can be extended for up to 270 days. However, digital nomads will soon be able to apply for a new visa specifically designed for remote workers, while retirees could qualify through the My Dream Home Visa program.

Estimated cost of living: $400.

Nepal

franck metois / Getty Images Phewa Lake in Pokhara provides views of the Annapurna range, making this Himalayan city Nepal's second-largest and a base for trekkers and spiritual seekers at significantly lower costs than Western mountain destinations. Phewa Lake in Pokhara provides views of the Annapurna range, making this Himalayan city Nepal's second-largest and a base for trekkers and spiritual seekers at significantly lower costs than Western mountain destinations.

Why? Himalayan mountain access, including Everest base camp treks; Kathmandu Valley's ancient temples and palaces; spiritual tourism sites; and living costs that rank among Asia's lowest.

Visa options : Nepal offers a standard tourist visa, a residential visa for retirees that requires a certificate of regular income of at least $20,000 per year, and is set to launch a new five-year visa for remote workers.

Estimated cost of living: $270.



India

Tuul & Bruno Morandi / Getty Images The ghats of Varanasi on the Ganges River represent India's 5,000-year continuous civilization, where daily ceremonies and ancient traditions coexist with modern infrastructure in one of the world's oldest inhabited cities. The ghats of Varanasi on the Ganges River represent India's 5,000-year continuous civilization, where daily ceremonies and ancient traditions coexist with modern infrastructure in one of the world's oldest inhabited cities.

Why? A large country offering vastly different climates, cuisines, and cultures, colonial-era hill stations with temperate weather, Goa's beach communities popular with long-term foreign residents, and a massive English-speaking population.

Visa options : India doesnt have a specific digital nomad or retirement visa. Options include applying for a one-year or five-year e-tourist multiple-entry visa or a one-year business e-visa.



Estimated cost of living: $270.

Read the original article on Investopedia
One of my favorite pieces of life advice is: Be passionate about something, anything. And theres no denying that a Virginia couple have embraced that message.

When I talked to 72- and 73-year-old Mike and Judy McNamara Wednesday, they were in Scottsdale, Arizona, to visit a Texas Roadhouse. Since 2018, they have been on a quest to visit every location in the nation.

They told me theyll be making their 546th, 547th and 548th visits to Texas Roadhouse restaurants the weekend following Thanksgiving  two of them in Stanislaus County.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Friday, Nov. 28, the McNamaras will dine at the Turlock location (1665 Countryside Drive) at 3 p.m. Theyll spend Saturday in Union City and return to Stanislaus County to visit the Modesto location (3037 Sisk Road) at 11 a.m. Sunday.

Were having a good time, Mike McNamara said. We are seeing the country through the Texas Roadhouses. Sometimes were not visiting stuff, but youre seeing it as it flashes by at 70-75 mph.

The McNamaras take two long trips around the country per year, he said. The first is typically from the end of May to the beginning of July, and the second from November to December.

Their preferred method of travel is driving. They either stay at motels or tow their camper, and are doing the latter on their current trip.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While in California, the McNamaras are staying at Kit Fox RV Park in Patterson. After they leave Sunday, theyll travel to Reno, Las Vegas, a couple of stops in Arizona, a few in Texas and Alabama, then back home to Franklin, Virginia.

When asked if theyve visited any other California locations, Mike Manamara said theyve gone to Rialto and Corona. As far as stopping at restaurants in the central part of the state, itll probably be another year, he said.

We went to 92 (Texas Roadhouse restaurants) last year, Manamara said. This year, itll be somewhere around 50-55. Next year will probably be sort of the same thing. So were slowing down.

The couple visited the chain for the first time in 2003 while visiting Judys brother in Tennessee. It wasnt until after retirement that they decided to make a habit of it.

So, why travel to every Texas Roadhouse?

The food is great, the people are wonderful and the prices are very reasonable, Mike McNamara said.
Alabama travelers aren't just looking for a place to crash, they're chasing experience. According to a statewide survey from Advance Travel & Tourism, quick getaways, natural beauty and flexibility are at the top of travelers' minds. It's no surprise the state's most buzzed-about vacation rentals aren't flashy hotels, but quirky, personality-packed escapes that promise scenery, charm and a stress-free break.

Only in Your State highlighted in a new list five rentals trending with travelers right now. These trending rentals are attracting attention for their creativity, scenery and high demand, and they're quickly becoming among the most frequently booked spots in Alabama.

Here are the five trending rentals in Alabama right now, according to Only in Your State.

Storybook Castle BnBFairhope

Highlighted by Only in Your State as one of Alabama's standout stays, this studio suite inside Fairhope's Sheldon Castle offers a true fairytale escape. Guests can explore the grounds, including a second castle with its own moat, before heading just minutes into downtown for shopping and dining. It's a whimsical stay with easy access to everything the town has to offer.

Farm Cottage Grand Bay

Featured by Only in Your State, this Grand Bay farm cottage offers a peaceful escape on 9 acres of rolling pasture. Guests may wake to goats, alpacas and other friendly farm animals right outside the window, making it an ideal retreat for anyone craving a slower, simpler pace.

Cave on Smith LakeHouston

This one-bedroom cabin tucked inside a cave on Smith Lake is Alabama's most unique vacation rental. Often booked weeks in advance, it offers secluded scenery, nearby waterfalls, swimming when the water is warm and multiple firepits.

Waterfront cabinFairhope

This waterfront cabin on Fish River offers a treehouse-like retreat with stunning views. Guests can enjoy kayaking, fishing or simply relaxing on the deck.

Woodland RetreatGuntersville

Only in Your State loves this secluded forest cabin in Guntersville for a nature-filled escape. The one-bedroom tiny home features a hot tub, a suspended loft hammock and whimsical string lights on the deck, creating a cozy, fairytale-like retreat.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Jennifer Lindahl is a Breaking and Trending Reporter for the Deep South Connect Team for Gannett/USA Today. Connect with her on X @jenn_lindahl and email at jlindahl@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: Alabama's top vacation rentals includes a castle and a farm
If you havent met chef Ahu Hettema, you should. Perhaps not in person, but through a good story or a proper sit-down at her esteemed restaurant Istanbul Hawaii. She and her mom run the kitchen at the restaurant, which pays homage to both Turkish and Hawaiian cuisine.

Our holiday traditions still begin in the kitchen the way they always have in Turkiye, the chef says. Big trays of stuffed vegetables, slow-cooked lamb, and preserved fruits my mother makes every year. The table is open to whoever walks in; that sense of generosity is something we never left behind.

Since moving to Hawaii, Hettema says the fish she and her dad catch together has become a tradition with extra meaning. Its something we did growing up, and now we do it here, casting early in the morning, bringing home whatever the ocean gives us, and sharing it with friends and neighbors. It connects our past in Turkiye with our life in the islands in a very natural way, she says.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its fitting she landed in Hawaii as the values both lands covet seem to very much align, and also go well with the current season of gratitude. Both cultures share the same spirit: community, abundance, and making sure everyone at the table is cared for, Hettema says.

During her time at Istanbul Hawaii, Hettema has not only carved out a significant following and sharpened her culinary teeth. Shes also developed a love for and genuine understanding of the Middle Eastern wine map. Its a vast region with tons of winemaking history, yet so often overlooked or marginalized here in the states.

Not so at Hettemas bustling Honolulu restaurant. Shes embraced the scene and created a lovely list that pairs up her her artistic dishes. If you ever her to Honolulu, book a table at this exciting joint.

We couldnt resist the opportunity to see what Middle Eastern wines she suggests for the Thanksgiving table. Read on for her expert advice.

Turkey and cranberries and Israeli red

Lauri Patterson / Getty Images

Hettema suggests a Yatirs Forest from the Negev Highlands of Israel. Its Cabernet and Syrah from the edge of the desert: dark fruit, cocoa, and stone. She describes it as structured yet graceful; a powerful companion to sage-roasted turkey, cranberry relish, and buttery sides.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Keep that in mind for leftovers, because if youre likely to go big with Thanksgiving dinner, and have plenty of poultry to spare. Extra turkey and cranberry sandwiches are a godsend and go from excellent lunch to elevated dinner with the right wine.

Butternut squash soup and Lebanese white

JP Valery / Unsplash

Here, the chef opts for Chateau Musar out of the Bekaa Valley of Lebanon. The white wine is made with indigenous grapes (Merwah and Obaideh) and, according to the chef, offers golden, honeyed, and mineral notes. It tastes like sunlight over limestone, pairing beautifully with butternut-squash soup or lemon-thyme turkey, she says.

If thats not a tantalizing enough description of the wine, were not sure what is. For those unfamiliar, the Bekaa Valley is the core of the Lebanese wine world, where some 90% of the nations fermented juice is made. Some great values can be found here, made of grapes you simply cant find anywhere else.

Eggplant or roasted duck with Turkish Syrah

SOPA Images/Getty Images

We dont all go the turkey route for Thanksgiving. Hettema offers some filling alternatives, paired with a red wine from her familys native Turkiye. She likes the Pendore Syrah by Kavakldere, a produce in Izmir.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A refined Turkish Syrah grown in the Pendore vineyards  black fruit, violet, eastern spice, and supple tannins, she says. It speaks of modern Anatolia: confident, balanced, quietly powerful. Exceptional with smoked eggplant or roasted duck.

Other festive dishes and Lebanese red

Istanbul Hawaii

During the holidays, I often choose Chateau Musar Hochar Pere et Fils from Lebanon, the chef says. It has depth, lift, and that unmistakable Musar character that works beautifully with festive dishes. If theyd like a Turkish varietal as well, Okuzgozu is a favorite for its bright acidity, red-fruit profile, and how well it complements richer holiday foods.

And what of dessert? Hettema goes classic, opting for an Old World French wine like Domaine de la Romanee-Conti from the storied Burgundy region. She likes it on its own, dubbing it a poetic finale to a good feast. But if you cant get your palms on that and want to keep the Middle Eastern theme alive, weve got an idea.

Look out for dessert wines from Lebanon. Quite a few are made from Muscat we were drawn to some made from other varietals, like Cinsault and Gewurztraminer. It might be easier to locate an kosher wine from a more local producer like Hajdu in California. They make some nice ports and vermouths, great for post-meal sipping. Of course, you could always go with a good old fashioned Turkish coffee as a proper nightcap beverage to sign off.
Getting ready to pick out your Christmas tree from one of New Hampshire's many tree farms?

While the state certainly has plenty of options to choose from, this year, consider heading to New Hampshire's oldest Christmas tree farm: Weir Tree Farms. The Colebrook farm has been selling Christmas trees since 1945, making it 80 years old this year.

Though Glove Hollow Farm was founded earlier than Weir, Glove Hollow did not start selling Christmas trees until 1957, making Weir Tree Farms the oldest continously-running Christmas tree seller in New Hampshire.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Here's a brief history of New Hampshire's oldest Christmas tree farm, as well as how to get your tree there this season.

History of Weir Tree Farms

According to the farm's website, Weir Tree Farms dates back to 1945, when Harlie Weir planted the first seedlings  some of which produced trees that are still used for seed today.

In 1958, Weir acquired the current farm in East Colebrook, planting several thousand Balsam Fir trees. The farm was passed to Harlie's oldest son William in 1965, and again passed down to William's son Jay in 2004. Along with his wife Christie, Jay Weir continues to run the historic family farm today.

Over time, Weir Tree Farms has expanded to just under 400 acres in Christmas tree production, producing 15,000 to 20,000 trees annually. The farm offers a variety of fraser and balsam fir trees, as well as multiple types of hybrid trees they developed themselves. Weir Tree Farms also has a plant nursery and a large gift shop filled with garland, kissing balls, gifts and wreaths.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Christmas tree season: Here are 10 Christmas tree farms where you can cut down a tree in New Hampshire

How to get a tree from Weir Tree Farms

Along with selling trees wholesale, Weir Tree Farms welcomes customers to choose and cut their own tree, or tag a tree and return for cutting at a later date. Employees are available to help cut and bale the trees. Trees cost $50 for 6 ft. and under, $60 for 6-8 ft. tall, $80 for 8-9 ft. tall, $100 for 9-10 ft. tall and $125 for over 10 ft. tall.

The Christmas tree farm will be open at 679 E. Colebrook Road in Colebrook from Saturday, Nov. 22 through Sunday, Dec. 14 for the 2025 season.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Where is the oldest Christmas tree farm in NH? How to get a tree there
According to travel expert Rick Steves, a trip to Budapest isn't complete without a few hours spent bathing in the thermal waters of the city's most iconic bathhouse. Over a century old, the Szechenyi Baths (pronounced "say-chain-nee") were built surrounded by a Neo-Baroque-style palace after a more rudimentary thermal bath created in the 1860s proved extremely popular. As Rick Steves explains, "Locals brag that if you poke a hole in the ground anywhere in Hungary, you'll find a hot-water spring." City dwellers did just that in the 19th century, finding thermal waters below the park and attracting 2,400 visitors per day as early as 1919. Now, tourists and locals alike can spend all day floating in the thermal pools surrounded by charming lemon-colored palatial walls, steam hovering in the cool air as rowdy locals play chess on the water's edges.

In the many decades since the first Hungarians bathed in the thermal waters of City Park, Szechenyi Baths has grown to include 18 indoor and outdoor pools, plus numerous steam rooms, saunas, cold plunge pools, a beer spa (for the health benefits), and options for spa treatments. The practice of bathing in the region's thermal waters goes back to Roman times and is a must for travelers. A few insider tips: don't forget a bathing suit and a towel, or you'll have to buy pricy swim gear on site. The bath house also suggests booking online in advance to ensure your spot.

Take Metro line 1 from Budapest's central districts to the Szechenyi Thermal Bath station, where you'll exit right into the center of City Park, one of Budapest's most expansive green areas. Here, you'll find plenty of capital city ambiance: lush walking trails, cafes, and art museums abound. Cooler months also bring igloo bars, where guests can have mulled wine or Hungarian langos (deep fried bread, usually topped with sour cream, garlic, and shredded cheese) while lounging in a heated dome.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Read more: The Biggest Tourist Traps In Europe, According To Rick Steves

A day at Szechenyi Baths

Visitors playing chess inside Szechenyi Baths - Connect Images/ben Pipe Photography/Getty Images

When you're ready to experience Budapest's famous bathhouses, head through the main entrance, and mentally prepare for a little chaos. As Rick Steves found: "The seemingly confusing entry procedure is like a time-warp back to communist bureaucracy...but that's all part of the experience, and somehow, it works." If the less-than-efficient entrance feels stressful, all negative feelings will dissipate once plunging into the relaxing waters.

At Szechenyi, you can easily spend the whole day moving from sauna to cold plunge to outdoor thermal bath. Maybe head to the lap pool for a quick workout underneath the cast of the winter sun, or ask one of the locals playing chess in the thermal pool for a chance to test your skills. Head to the cafe for a hearty goulash soup or a light Greek salad. However you spend your day at the baths, you're sure to leave feeling renewed. Locals often think of bathing in thermal waters as one key to a healthy lifestyle. In fact, Rick Steves notes, "The baths are actually a part of the health-care system. Doctors regularly prescribe treatments that include massage, soaking in baths of various heat and mineral compositions, and swimming laps."

Tickets start at around $45 for weekday passes, with upgrade options that include additional amenities, like bath robes, tea, massages, and access to the rooftop greenhouse lounge. A three-year renovation project is currently underway at Szechenyi, but when you buy your ticket online, the site will outline any areas currently out of use.

Thermal baths for every traveler and budget

Bird's eye view of a pool at Lukacs Thermal Bath - Kurka Geza Corey/Shutterstock

While even locals admit the Baroque beauty of Szechenyi Baths is unsurpassed, foreigners tend to outnumber locals here. After you've seen the opulence of Szechenyi (or if you want to save on the entrance price but still enjoy Budapest's thermal waters), head to one of the city's lesser-known bathing hubs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Veli Bej, sometimes considered one of Budapest's best secret thermal baths, costs around $17 for a three hour morning pass, and includes five pools, several saunas, and plenty of local flair. Lukacs Thermal Bath costs $21 on weekdays and also includes several indoor and outdoor bathing options, plus saunas of varying temperatures.

Rick Steves recommends Gellert Baths for a "more luxurious and sedate" option to Szechenyi. A stunning Art Nouveau masterpiece, Gellert even offers an outdoor wave pool in summertime (note: Gellert is currently in renovation and will be closed until 2028). Whether you're hoping for an evening spa party complete with a DJ and pool-side shots (a weekly occurrence at Szechenyi) or a chance to surround yourself with locals, there's a thermal house experience for every traveler in Budapest. Can't get to Hungary just yet, but want to experience some of the Szechenyi charm this winter? Head over to one of the 12 highly rated hotels in America with the best spas.

Ready to discover more hidden gems and expert travel tips? Subscribe to our free newsletter for access to the world's best-kept travel secrets. You can also add us as a preferred search source on Google.

Read the original article on Explore.




They are relative newcomers to owning classic cars and each has a model that is more than 90 years old. They are also father and son. Bill Hodge of Riverton bought a basic 1930 Ford Model A coupe more than a year and half ago, while Travis Hodge of New Hartford got a more luxurious four-door 1931 Hupmobile Century Eight Model L sedan just over a year ago.

embed code:

Their original plan was for each of them to have a Model A, but after father Bill got his A-Model Ford (as they are sometimes referred to), son Travis' search took an unexpected detour. My Ride met with them in Riverton on a sunny day back in mid-September and absorbed their tales.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I had wanted a Model A for probably 20 years and was waiting for the planets to align and everything for the right time. I retired last year and decided that the planets were aligning and I started my search," the elder Hodge said, recalling that he found the Model A in central Massachusetts.

"Purchased it from an elderly gentleman. The car's name is Annabelle. That was the name he and his wife gave the car so I kept it."

Bill Hodge of Riverton and his 1930 Ford Model A. (Bud Wilkinson/For Hearst Connecticut Media)





The Model A wasn't his first choice for a first classic car.

"Originally, my dream car was a Stingray - a '60s Stingray Corvette - that was my ultimate. I figured alright someday I'm going to have one of those, but they were always priced way out of my means. I've never been somebody that made a lot of money in my lifetime. Things are more important like feeding kids, paying mortgages, so having a luxury like that collector car was always way, way, way on the back burner."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Bill adjusted his thinking and obtained something more reasonable.

"The most reasonable collector car that there is pretty much on the planet is a Model A Ford. They're one of the least expensive. They're the easiest to get parts for. There's a big database out there in terms of past knowledge and everything," he explained.

With Bill having landed his Model A, Travis then began looking for another one for himself; a four-door sedan rather than a coupe with a rumble seat. Having located one in New Hampshire, they went to inspect it but were also aware of a Hupmobile in the vicinity.

The 1931 Hupmobile Century Eight Model L sedan owned by Travis Hodge of New Hartford. (Bud Wilkinson/For Hearst Connecticut Media)





"We figured, well, we're going up there anyway. If this doesn't work out, we'll go and look at the Hupmobile as well. As it turned out, the Ford wasn't exactly what we were looking for but the Hupmobile was," said the younger Hodge.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"The car just spoke to me. I wasn't really actively looking for it. It just called my name and I saw it and I had to have it basically."

Shifting to a different brand and larger model wasn't problematic for him. "It's the time frame I like. I like late '20s, early '30s cars to begin with. I also like the bigger, classier cars of that era as well.The Hupmobile was sort of a mid-range car at that time, sort of a Buick competitor," he said.

Hupmobile was a Detroit manufacturer that was founded in 1909 and lasted until 1940. A total of 17,451 examples were reportedly produced for the 1931 model year; far fewer than the 626,579 examples during that same period for the Model A. Ford launched the Model A in 1927 and it lasted until March 1932.

The hood ornament on the 1930 Ford Model A. (Bud Wilkinson/For Hearst Connecticut Media)





"They were basic transportation built to a price point, designed for the average guy to be able own and drive, and they still are," said Bill of the Model A. "That's the neat thing about it. The average guy can own and drive it even though it's almost 100 years old."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Like his son, Bill enjoys models of a century ago. "You can drive a brand new Corvette down the street, nobody will see you. You drive one of these down the street, everybody sees you. They are different enough that they're a novelty and people are intrigued by 'em. I never go anywhere, ever, where someone doesn't comment on my car," he said.

"It's rolling history. We need to remember where we came from. That's part of what I like about it, plus the fact that it's interesting to look at how things started out and how they got to where they are now in terms of engineering and so on."

The trunk on the rear of the 1931 Hupmobile Century Eight Model L. (Bud Wilkinson/For Hearst Connecticut Media)





Travis has adjusted his driving habits with the Hupmobile.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"They're analog. Everything slows down when you're driving it. It's sort of it being in a different time. Even though the Hupmobile is the exact opposite of the Model A in how easy it is to own - it's very hard to get parts for and things like that - I like the challenge of it," he said.

"For me the most surprising thing is how much fun it is to drive slow. Being a younger person, I've never really enjoyed driving slow before but, all of a sudden, I got this and it's a whole different way of looking at it."

Both father and son have learned much since getting their classic cars and have lessons to pass along to those interested in buying a vintage model for the first time.

Travis Hodge of New Hartford and his 1931 Hupmobile Century Eight Model L. (Bud Wilkinson/For Hearst Connecticut Media)





"What I would tell somebody first off is get a ride in one," said Bill, reporting that not having done so, he found the Model A to be a bit cramped for someone his height.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Travis said doing homework before buying is a must. "That way you know what you're getting into and you can buy the best possible car you can for what you can afford and it'll save you a lot of headaches later," he said.

Harwinton native Bud Wilkinson writes about classic cars and motorcycles for Hearst Connecticut Media. He previously reported for The Columbus Dispatch in Ohio and was columnist for The Arizona Republic in Phoenix before reporting for KSAZ-TV in Phoenix where he won a Scripps Howard National Journalism Award and an Emmy Award for commentary. He may be reached by email at budw@ride-ct.com.

This article originally published at My Ride: CT father and son bond over their classic cars from the 1930s.
TAIPEI, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Multiple civic groups and political parties held a protest in Taipei against Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te's announcement of an additional 40 billion U.S. dollars in defense spending for purchasing U.S. arms.

The protesters called for an immediate halt to the reckless military purchases by the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities at the expense of people's livelihoods, and urged the restoration of peaceful dialogue between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait.

Wu Jung-yuan, chairman of the Labor Party in Taiwan, said the DPP authorities are pushing separatist agenda and exorbitant military expenditure at the cost of people's wellbeing.

"Taiwan people are at a critical moment of awakening and self-rescue. We should safeguard livelihoods and peace," he said.

What Taiwan people want is a peaceful and secure cross-Strait relationship, said Huang Te-pei, secretary-general of the Left Party in Taiwan, urging efforts to firmly oppose the increase of defense budget to purchase U.S. arms.

Labor Party deputy secretary-general Hsu Meng-hsiang said Lai was attempting to brainwash the public by portraying the mainland as a so-called "external hostile force," so as to claim that buying U.S. arms is necessary to resist so-called "aggression" from the mainland.

Such a claim by Lai is utter nonsense, Hsu said.

The protesters have also released a statement, noting that Taiwan people have long endured low wages, high housing costs and inadequate elderly care and medical services, and they should not become bargaining chips for the DPP authorities and U.S. arms dealers.

"Taiwan people have no obligation to bear these consequences, and have never agreed to take risks alongside the DPP authorities and external powers," the statement said. 
As the grand opening of Royal Caribbeans first exclusive beach club approaches, the cruise line has been building anticipation for the beach days that cruise passengers will soon enjoy at the new Bahamas resort destination.

Social media sneak peek videos have offered a first look at the beaches, pools, and vibrant Bahamian atmosphere that await vacationers who book a day pass to enjoy Royal Beach Club Paradise Island on cruises to Nassau, Bahamas.

The cruise line even invited a lucky group of cruise passengers for a free preview of the new beach club on Dec. 15 ahead of its Dec. 23 grand opening.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But unfortunately, those cruise vacationers who were looking forward to being the first to experience Royal Beach Club Paradise Island just found out that their special sneak peek event has been canceled.

Be the first to see the best deals on cruises, special sailings, and more. Sign up for the Come Cruise With Me newsletter.

Royal Beach Club Paradise Island features two beaches and three pools across three neighborhoods.Image source: Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean cancels first Royal Beach Club sneak peek event

Royal Caribbean broke the disappointing news in an email to Symphony of the Seas passengers who had RSVPd for the preview event, which was planned for the ships Dec. 15 visit to Nassau.

A few weeks ago, we invited you to be among the first to enjoy a special sneak peek of this brand-new destination, Royal Caribbean wrote in the email, which was shared on social media and in the Royal Caribbean community on Reddit.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It turns out that the new beach club wont be ready to welcome guests by Dec. 15.

Related: Royal Caribbean reveals its first exclusive beach club in Europe

Construction is still in progress, and while the island is shaping up beautifully, it's not quite ready for guests just yet. Our original plan was to have you help us experience everything Royal Beach Club Paradise Island will offer, but we want to make sure it meets the exceptional standards we've envisioned before opening it to you. This sneak peek was designed to be both fun and a chance for us to fine-tune every detail. That day is coming soon  but not during this sailing, the cruise lines email explained.

Although those passengers wont get to enjoy the beach day they expected, Royal Caribbean is giving them some exclusive Royal Beach Club Paradise Island swag to thank them for their understanding.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sign up for the Come Cruise With Me newsletter to save money on your next (or your first) cruise.

Royal Beach Club Paradise Island opening still set for Dec. 23

Despite the cancellation of the first preview event, Royal Caribbean hasnt postponed the grand opening of Royal Beach Club Paradise Island. As of Nov. 28, the opening date is still set for Dec. 23.

The new Bahamas beach club will offer passengers the opportunity to upgrade their day in Nassau by purchasing an all-inclusive day pass to visit the 17-acre Paradise Island resort. The exclusive destination pairs the beauty and spirit of The Bahamas with Royal Caribbean experiences.

Related: Royal Caribbean shares sneak peek of new Bahamas beach club

Highlights of Royal Beach Club Paradise Island include:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Three neighborhoods: Chill Beach, Family Beach, and Party Cove

Two beaches: Family Beach and Chill Beach

Seven beach bars

Three swim-up bars, including The Floating Flamingo, a massive swim-up bar with a DJ

Three pools, including a zero-entry Shallow End pool at Family Beach

Three Paradise Grill dining venues offering Bahamian-inspired bites like Pinwheel Shrimp Skewers, Fire Engine Fritters, and a Crunchy Fish Sandwich

Day passes include roundtrip water ferry transportation, unlimited drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic, depending on the type of day pass purchased), all-day dining, Wi-Fi, umbrellas and lounge chairs, lockers, towels, beach games, and live music.

(The Arena Group will earn a commission if you book a cruise.)

Make a free appointment with Come Cruise With Mes Travel Agent Partner, Postcard Travel, or email Amy Post at amypost@postcardtravelplanning.com or call or text her at 386-383-2472.

This story was originally published by TravelHost on Nov 28, 2025, where it first appeared in the Come Cruise With Me section. Add TravelHost as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH)  Now that Thanksgiving is over, its officially time for Christmas, meaning that the man with the big white beard will be available to meet all across Connecticut.

Santa Claus will be everywhere, from malls, to trains and town squares. Heres some places youll be able to meet St. Nick this year, according to ctvisit.com.

USPS workers in Connecticut gearing up for holiday rush

Stamford Town Center, Stamford

Located in Stamford Town Center, the Holiday Wish Express is more than just a photo op with the Santa: its an immersive experience, complete with a virtual train ride, themed rooms and more.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dates: Nov. 22 to Dec. 28.

Shoreline Trolley Museum, East Haven

Santa will be on his special trolley car at the Shoreline Trolley Museum in East Haven! Santas elves will be there to make sure every child gets a free gift. The whole museum will be decked out with holiday cheer.

Dates: Nov. 29 to Dec. 21

Holiday Lighted Boat Parade, Mystic

Santa Claus is coming to town in Mystic, arriving by tugboat in historic downtown Mystic.

Date: Nov. 29

Connecticut Trolley Museum, East Windsor

The Connecticut Trolley Museum in East Windsor is celebrating 40 years of holiday cheer with its annual Winterfest & Tunnel of Lights. The halls will be decked inside and outside with thousands of light bulbs, complete with trolley cars to transport guests as they sing Christmas carols.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dates: Nov. 28 to Dec. 21

Railroad Museum of New England, Thomaston

Passengers aboard the Santa Express at the Railroad Museum of New England in Thomaston will be able to visit Santa, play with elves and get a special gift from his toy bag.

Dates: Nov. 28 to Dec. 23

Sam Bridge Nursery & Greenhouse, Greenwich

The Greenwich Reindeer Festival & Santas Workshop is celebrating 17 years in 2025. Visitors can have a photo taken with Santa, meet the reindeer and also enjoy Santas Workshop.

Dates: Nov. 28 to Dec. 24

Danbury Railway Museum, Danbury

Visitors can take a ride in a vintage train through the historic railyard to visit Santa and Mrs. Claus at All Aboard the Snow Clipper event in Danbury.

Dates: Nov. 29 to Dec. 22

Landmark Square, Stamford

Santa Claus, Rudolph, Grinch and friends will make a daredevil descent, flying from the top of one of Stamfords tallest buildings, Landmark Square. After they land, Santa and friends will go up Bedford Street to Latham Park for an evening of holiday music and join the countdown for the lighting of Stamfords holiday tree.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Date: Dec. 7

Wickham Park, Manchester

Wickham Park in Manchester will turn into Santas log cabin this winter. Visitors will have the opportunity to visit Santa and Mrs. Claus, elves making toys and more.

Dates: Dec. 13 to Dec. 23

Church Street, Torrington

A tradition in Torrington, 150 Church St. will turn into a Christmas Village. The place features individual rooms to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, a toy shop with elves at work, reindeer, seasonal lights and displays.

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.
Have you ever been to a place that seems so unreal it feels like you're about to step out of the world? If not, perhaps you should try visiting Adak Airport (ADK) one of these days. Adak is one of those places you'll visit and wonder if the world is running out of space. The airport, being the westernmost commercial airport in the U.S., doesn't just represent an extreme in terms of geography; it also offers a completely different kind of travel experience. Flights at Adak Airport are rare  occurring just two times per week  and are typically operated by Alaska Airlines, the major U.S. airline that ranked number one for safety.

One unique thing about this airport is that when aircraft touches down, it's treated as a significant event to the residents living on the island. Because aircraft doesn't come around often, residents celebrate its arrival, eagerly awaiting the plane and watching as it lands and unloads passengers before disappearing again.

This can be seen in a viral TikTok clip posted by @authentic_traveling that helped introduce netizens to this remote outpost. At Adak, going to the airport has become a communal ritual. Once a military stronghold, Adak is now a sleepy civilian hub; one of the places you need to visit in your lifetime.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Read more: Additional Airport Screening Isn't Totally Random. Here's Why You May Have Been Selected

Why Adak Airport feels so different

Adak's runway stretches into twilight of Adak Island - Wirestock Creators/Shutterstock

If it's always been your dream to stand on the literal edge of the U.S., then Adak, Alaska, is the way. And that's because Adak sits near 176.64 W, which is closer to Russia than Juneau, the Alaskan capital. The airport itself is situated amid volcanic ridges, foggy coastlines, and the restive waters of the Bering Sea. Adak Airport was built by the U.S. Navy in 1942 as a strategic base during World War II, and once hosted hundreds of military personnel. It was also once used as a critical surveillance post during the Cold War to keep watch over the Pacific. The base was later decommissioned and handed over for civilian use. And that's why, unlike typical regional airports, Adak's runaways are large enough to handle military jets or cargo planes.

Also, because flights only come twice a week, the arrival of each plane has become a local event which islanders call "plane day." This is a term made popular by travelers and residents on TikTok and travel blogs. On those days, everyone feels some kind of happiness because changes are noticeable: the shelves of every store get filled up, mail arrives, and newcomers walk into the Aleutian environment.

The plane that brought passengers might also carry medicine, spare parts, and even groceries. And when it leaves, it takes mail and visitors back to Anchorage. And here lies part of the airport's magic  there's no overflowing crowds, no long TSA lines, and no competition for overhead bin space. It's just an airstrip at the end of the world, and a few people waiting under cloudy skies. At Adak, if the remoteness doesn't interest you, the landscape certainly will.

What travelers should know before flying to Adak

View of street with shopping area with gift shops and restaurants - Epasqualli/Getty Images

Although It's not difficult to get to Adak, it still requires proper planning and a lot of patience. Adak isn't the kind of destination where you can just wake up one morning and decide to book a flight. First, Alaska Airlines is currently the only commercial carrier taking people to Adak, and the plane leaves twice a week, on Wednesdays and Saturdays. And once you miss your flight, you may need to wait for several days before the next one. For planning purposes, you can check Alaska airlines' updated in-flight menu at your convenience.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Again, Adak's lodges and guesthouses are limited, and so are grocery options. Supplies are costly and restaurants are few. This is because the island relies heavily on periodic cargo shipments. Visitors are advised to bring their own food, warm clothing and other essentials, as Adak's climate brings crosswinds and unpredictable fog. Lastly, internet service is slow. However, there's been a slight improvement regarding cell coverage. For some people, being disconnected is just another thing that appeals to them.

Ready to discover more hidden gems and expert travel tips? Subscribe to our free newsletter for access to the world's best-kept travel secrets. You can also add us as a preferred search source on Google.

Read the original article on Explore.
President Donald Trump said Thursday evening that U.S. Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, one of the two West Virginia National members wounded in a targeted shooting near the White House on Wednesday, has died.

Trump made the announcement as he made calls to the U.S. military on Thanksgiving.

Calling Beckstrom, 20, a highly respected, young, magnificent person, Trump said, Shes just passed away. Shes no longer with us. Shes looking down at us right now. Her parents are with her. Its just happened.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The other wounded National Guard member, Andrew Wolfe, 24, was in critical condition.

The other young man is fighting for his life, Trump said. Hes in very bad shape. Hes fighting for his life.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: 2 National Guard members shot in an ambush attack just blocks from the White House

Earlier Thursday, federal officials revealed more details about the attack and the suspected shooter.

The shooting took place around 2:15 p.m. on Wednesday near the Farragut West Metro station.

U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro, the top federal prosecutor for the nations capital, Pirro said the suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, allegedly drove cross-country from Washington state to target the guard members.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She said the suspect, an Afghan national, ambushed the guard members, opening fire with a .357 Smith & Wesson revolver.

One guardsman is struck, goes down, and then the shooter leans over and strikes the guardsman again. Another guardsman is struck several times, she said.

Other National Guard members quickly responded and helped subdue the suspected shooter after he was shot by a Guard member, she said.

West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey went to D.C. Wednesday night and visited the Guard members in the hospital overnight, according to his office.

Im asking every West Virginian to pray for our two Guardsmen as their families, friends, and neighbors struggle with this unspeakable tragedy, Morrisey said in a statement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Morrisey did not provide any updates on their conditions. The governor also met with the president to discuss the investigation.

These facts demand a comprehensive investigation so we can bring those responsible to justice. We will continue working closely with federal authorities to get clear answers, Morrisey said.

Brig. Gen. Leland D. Blanchard II, commander of the D.C. National Guard, was emotional as he talked about the struggles Beckstrom and Wolfes families were facing as other Americans celebrated the Thanksgiving holiday.

Regardless of the outcome, we know that their lives, their family lot, their families, lives are all changed forever because one person decided to do this horrific and evil thing, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pirro said that the suspect will be charged with several counts, including assault with intent to harm and criminal possession of a weapon. She noted that those charges could change depending on the fate of the wounded guard members.

The suspects motive is still unclear, according to officials, speaking at a news conference.

FBI Director Kash Patel told reporters the probe is ongoing investigation of terrorism.

Investigators searched the suspects Bellingham, Washington, home and interviewed tenants for more information, according to Patel. Patel also said interviews were taking place in San Diego, but declined to provide further details.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He noted that the FBI received confirmation from the Department of Defense and CIA that the subject had a relationship in Afghanistan with partner forces.

We are fully investigating that aspect of his background as well, to include any known associates that are either overseas or here in the United States of America, Patel said.

Lakanwal, who Pirro said had a wife and five children, came to the United States in 2021 under the Biden administration, Homeland Security Kristi Noem said in a statement Wednesday evening.

He applied for asylum in 2024 and was granted that status in April of this year, under the Trump administration, according to three law enforcement sources.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He previously worked with the USG, including CIA, as a member of a partner force in Kandahar that ended in 2021 following the withdrawal from Afghanistan, CIA Director John Ratcliffe said in a statement.

[The suspect] would have been vetted against classified and unclassified holdings when he came here and as part of the asylum process, said ABC News contributor John Cohen, former head of intelligence for the Department of Homeland Security and a former U.S. counterterrorism coordinator.

He was actually granted asylum under the Trump administration ... This does raise the question whether the administration is focusing enough on terrorism threats versus civil immigration enforcement.

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump are spending Thanksgiving at his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida and were not at the White House during the time of the incident.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump released a video statement Wednesday night calling the shooting an act of hatred, and ordering the reexamination of all Afghan immigrants admitted under the Biden administration.

He also ordered an additional 500 Guard troops to be deployed to D.C. Trump planned on making a traditional phone call to members of the military Thursday night, but it was not immediately known if he would speak to any National Guard members.

The National Guard was deployed to the nations capital as part of Trumps federal takeover of the city and crime crackdown in August. According to the most recent update, there were 2,188 Guard personnel assigned to D.C.

On Tuesday, during the traditional turkey pardoning at the White House, Trump touted his administrations takeover of D.C. streets. He said it was one of our most unsafe places anywhere in the United States. It is now considered a totally safe city.

You could walk down any street in Washington and youre going to be just fine. And I want to thank the National Guard. I want to thank you for the job youve done here is incredible, Trump said at the event.
One person is dead, and three others were hospitalized after a crash near an Ohio casino.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

The crash occurred around 3:10 p.m. at the intersection of West Broad Street and Georgesville Road near Hollywood Casino in Franklin County, our news partners WBNS-10 TV reported.

TRENDING STORIES:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Franklin County Sheriffs Office told WBNS-10 TV that the driver of a Honda CR-V was traveling east on West Broad Street at the same time the driver of an Acura MDX was traveling west on Broad Street.

The driver of the Honda ran a red light while the driver of the Acura was turning south on Georgesville Road.

The driver of the Honda was pronounced dead at the scene. A passenger in the Honda was taken to Grant Medical Center in critical condition, WBNS-10 TV reported.

Both the driver and the passenger of the Acura were taken to Doctors West Hospital, and their condition was described as stable.

The crash remains under investigation.

[SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
The Cincinnati Police Department is searching for a driver who fled the scene of a deadly crash early Thursday morning.

Officers responded to a call near the 4000 block of W. Eighth Street around 1:15 a.m. in West Price Hill, according to our news partner, WCPO.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

TRENDING STORIES:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

During the initial investigation of the crash, officers found that a person was driving a 2010 Ford Escape and going eastbound on W Eighth Street.

The driver of the Ford Focus hit a 2012 Acura TL that was driving southbound on Rosemont Avenue.

The Ford Escape driver fled the scene on foot.

The driver of the Acura was pronounced dead at the scene. Their identity is not known.

Police are investigating whether impairment or speed was a factor in the crash.

Any witnesses are asked to contact the Cincinnati Police Department at 513-352-2514.

[SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
A 10-year-old girl was rescued from a burning mobile home on the morning of Thursday, Nov. 27, in Phoenix, and three people were displaced, according to the Phoenix Fire Department.

Crews were dispatched about 10:45 a.m. Thanksgiving Day to reports of a mobile home fire near 29th Avenue and Van Buren Street, according to an email from Capt. DJ Lee, a Phoenix Fire Department spokesperson.

Firefighters arrived to find the home fully engulfed in flames and starting to spread to a neighboring unit, but they contained the fire and prevented further damage.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Before firefighters arrived, a bystander pulled the girl from the burning home, Lee said in the email.

Juan David Solano Ceron, who works at Agencia Llantera, a tire shop across the street, said he ran over after hearing two women screaming outside the trailer.

He found the girl unconscious on the floor near the mobile home's entrance and carried her out. The door was unlocked, he said.

Fire crews evaluated the child for smoke inhalation at the scene before she was taken to a hospital for further care. A fire department spokesperson said she was taken in stable condition.

Three residents were displaced, officials said. The Phoenix Fire Department's Community Assistance Program was helping the family with emergency needs.

No firefighters were injured, and the cause of the fire remained under investigation.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: 10-year-old girl rescued from Phoenix mobile home fire
NATO air planners looking east during the Cold War faced a vast, intimidating armada of bombers and attack aircraft.

With superior numbers, the Soviet Union and the other Warsaw Pact nations brandished a massive hammer of both nuclear and conventional destructive force. Here are 12 Soviet combat aircraft that kept NATO awake at night:

12: Sukhoi Fitter series

Sukhoi Fitter series

The supersonic single-engined Sukhoi Su-7 (codename: Fitter) was a brutally fast attack aircraft. Relatively easy and inexpensive to manufacture, it provided air mass but was flawed; most worrying for Soviet planners was its small payload, range, and long runway requirements.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A long runway requirement made an aircraft vulnerable, as airfields were primary targets for any aggressor. Various efforts were made, including the installation of a new undercarriage and the use of RATO (rocket-assisted take-off), but something more radical was needed.

The next-generation Fitter, the Su-17, featured a variable geometry outer (swing) wing section, which dramatically reduced field length requirements and improved range. The aircraft would later gain a more powerful engine, better sensors and targeting equipment and new weapons.

The result was a fast, potent attack aircraft. It was widely exported as the Su-20 and Su-22. The Su-17 was the primary tactical fighter-bomber during the Soviet occupation of Afghanistan. It remains in service in limited numbers with a small number of air forces.

11: Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-27 Flogger

Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-27 Flogger

With breathtaking performance and carrying the most powerful aircraft gun fitted to a supersonic aircraft, the MiG-27 was a fast fighter-bomber based on the MiG-23 fighter (via the MiG-23B attack series). Compared to the fighter Floggers, the MiG-27 was heavily armoured, lacked a radar, and had a distinctive duck-nose.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When the author spoke to former Indian Air Force pilot Anshuman Mainkar, he noted, She was very fast at low levels, and her ability to hold steady was superb. With wings swept back fully and speeds exceeding 1000 km/h at low levels, the wings waggled and the noise and vibrations that set in gave an impression of a banshee just freed, screaming with abandon.

It was powered by a single R-29-B-300 turbojet, rated at 25,400 lbf (113 kN) with afterburner. It was an unforgiving and sometimes dangerous machine, as Mainkar put it. In my opinion, it is the only fighter which has engine explosion as a standard aircraft emergency.

Though not as fast as the fighter Floggers, the MiG-27 kept much of the Floggers famed acceleration and extremely high speed at low altitude. It could carry up to 4000 kg (8818 lb) of offensive weapons, including free-fall bombs and guided missiles.

10: Sukhoi Su-25 Frogfoot

Sukhoi Su-25 Frogfoot

During the Great Patriotic War, the rugged Ilyushin Il-2 Sturmovik ground attack aircraft proved hugely important; it became as significant to the Soviet mythology of the war as the Spitfire is to the British. The Soviets revived the concept of a battlefield support aircraft in the 1960s with the Sukhoi Su-25.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It first flew in 1975, though it is commonly said to be based on the US Northrop A-9 (loser to the A-10 Thunderbolt II in a USAF contest), but this is unlikely to be the case; all that is shared is a superficial similarity in configuration. The design prioritised armour and weapons carriage over high speed.

The Su-25 features a powerful gun, the 30 mm dual-barrelled GSh-30-2 autocannon, which was developed specifically for the aircraft. This utilises the Gast principle: two barrels are operated by a single mechanism, with the recoil from firing one barrel loading and charging the second. It can carry up to 4340 kg (9568 lb) of guided and unguided weapons.

A combat evaluation of the Su-25 came in 1980, during the war in Afghanistan. Formal deployment started in 1981, where the Su-25 proved formidable. The use of US-supplied Stinger missiles led to a period of vulnerability for the Su-25, necessitating upgrades.

9: Ilyushin Il-28 Beagle

Ilyushin Il-28 Beagle

Following its first flight in 1948, over 6630 Il-28s (NATO code name: Beagle) were manufactured, a vast force; it was the first successful Soviet jet bomber to reach mass production. It was powered by two Klimov VK-1 turbojets, each producing about 6,000 lbf of thrust, derived from the British Rolls-Royce Nene.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As a twin-engined medium jet bomber, it was broadly comparable to the British English Electric Canberra. In most metrics, including top speed, ceiling, range, and bombload, the Il-28 was inferior to the Canberra; however, in terms of ease and cost of manufacture, the Il-28 was superior, and it served in far greater numbers.

The Il-28 bomber saw extensive wartime service across the globe. Deployed by over 20 nations, it fought in the Biafran and the North Yemen Civil wars. Used in air raids from Africa to Asia, it faced combat from RAF strikes to Saudi interceptions and remained active in Cold War conflicts.

It was widely exported to Warsaw Pact and allied nations  including China (as the H-5), Egypt, Poland, Czechoslovakia, and North Korea. Though retired by the USSR in the 1980s, some aircraft (like Chinas H-5 versions) remained in service into the 21st century, marking over 50 years of operational use.

8: Yakovlev Yak-28

Yakovlev Yak-28

The Yakovlev design bureau had proven itself with its fighters during the Great Patriotic War, and in the post-war era with the moderately successful Yak-25 Flashlight (and later the Yak-25RV Mandrake' high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft). The Yak-26 was an unsuccessful bomber derivative of the Yak-25.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Fitting the rather poor Yak-26 with larger more powerful Tumansky R-11 engines and a new wing of sharper sweep resulted in the excellent Yak-28. This twin-engined supersonic tactical aircraft, which first flew on 5 March 1958 and entered service in the early sixties, proved incredibly adaptable and served in almost every conceivable role. In the bomber role, it was assigned the NATO codename Brewer.

As well as a tactical bomber, it was modified to serve in the reconnaissance, electronic warfare and even, quite notably, in the interceptor roles (as the Firebar). Such was the versatility of the Yak-25 family that it required no less than six NATO-codenames including a slew of Brewer subvariants (Brewer-A onwards) and Maestro (for the Yak-28U trainer).

Yak-28s were deployed to forward bases in East Germany as part of Soviet shows of force during the Berlin standoff, but they did not engage in combat. During the invasion to suppress the Prague Spring, Yak-28s flew reconnaissance and patrol missions over Czechoslovakia. These were non-combat operations, primarily aimed at monitoring troop movements and intimidation.

7: Myasishchev M-4/3M Bison

Myasishchev M-4/3M Bison

The vulnerability of the American B-29 Superfortress in the Korean War made it clear that the piston-engined bomber could not survive against the new generation of high-performance jet fighters. A fast and very long-ranged bomber requirement was drawn up, one so demanding it was likely impossible with Soviet technology to answer without an overly large aircraft.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Myasishchevs four-engined bomber (NATO codename: Bison-A) failed to meet range requirements: it would not have been able to fly to North America and return. The 3M (NATO code-name: Bison-B) was an attempt to solve the range limitations with an in-flight refuelling capability and less thirsty (Dobrynin VM-7) engines.

It still didnt solve the issue totally, and it was a failure in the nuclear bomber role with only a small number serving in this role. However, the improvements made for a potent aircraft for other missions, it was fast and with a large bombload and well suited to the maritime patrol role.

Modifications across its life enabled Bisons to launch a variety of long-range air-to-surface missiles. The Bison could carry up to 17,727 kg (39,000 lb) of bombs, and the fastest variants could exceed 600mph. Including prototypes, 125 aircraft were manufactured.

6: Tupolev Tu-4 Bull

Tupolev Tu-4 Bull

Four USAAF B-29s crashed in the Soviet Union returning from attacks on Japan during 1944. Realising the Soviet Union was behind in heavy bombers, Stalin ordered a reverse engineering of the B-29. Reverse engineering the modern and extremely complex B-29 Superfortress was in itself a hugely impressive feat. The resultant Tu-4 first flew in 1947.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When the Tu-4 (later given the NATO code name Bull) became the first Soviet aircraft to drop a mass-produced nuclear weapon, it leapfrogged the USSR into the atomic superpower league. With the potential to reach the United States, albeit one-way, the Tu-4 was a sobering prospect in the newly frosty Cold War.

Better protected than the B-29, the Bull boasted a defensive armament of ten Nudelman-Suranov NS-23 autocannons. Its offensive load was around 8181 kg (18,000 lb) of bombs. A massive total of 847 Tu-4s were built. British and US interceptor crews practised how to attack Tu-4s using their own B-29s.

5: Tupolev Tu-16 Badger

Tupolev Tu-16 Badger

The Tu-16 (NATO codename: Badger) was a medium bomber that first flew in 1952. Notably, for an aircraft of comparable size to the British Valiant bomber, it was powered by only two engines. In later variants, the two huge Mikulin AM-3 M-500 each generated up to 21,000Ibf (93.2 kilonewtons) of thrust.

Like most Soviet bombers, it initially failed to meet ambitious range requirements; however, it excelled in most other respects. It first served in the conventional bombing role before assuming the deterrent role with the Tu-16A variant. In this photo we see a Tu-16 being shadowed by an American Phantom II.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Defensive armament consisted of six 23-mm Afanasev Makorov AM-23 cannons, with an offensive load of up to 9000 kg. Weapon options included the enormous K-10S anti-shipping missile, which could be fitted with a nuclear warhead. The Tu-16 was the most important Soviet bomber from the late 1950s until the mid-1960s.

It served in myriad roles, including nuclear bomber, maritime strike, airborne refuelling, ELINT and even search and rescue - it was even somewhat bizarrely used as a plane for carrying mail. An impressive total of 1507 aircraft were produced (excluding H-6 production). It remains in service today in China as the radically updated H-6K. In this photo we see a Tu-16 being shadowed by an American F-8H Crusader.

4: Tupolev Tu-95 Bear

Tupolev Tu-95 Bear

It is quite possible that a current Tu-95 pilots grandfather may have also flown the plane. A tiny number of military aircraft types that first flew in the early 1950s remain in active service today; the B-52 bomber and C-130 transport spring to mind for the Americans, and for the Soviets and then Russians, the utterly distinctive and horrendously loud 'Bear'.

This large strategic bomber is known for its combination of sharply swept-back wings and four gargantuan NK-12 turboprop engines with contra-rotating propellers, which makes the plane extremely loud. The turboprop powerplant was chosen as, at the time of the aircraft's conception, Soviet jet engines could not offer the fuel efficiency required for strategic range.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Though it does not have pure jet engines, the Tu-95 is extremely fast; at 575 mph (925 km/h), its the second fastest propeller-driven aircraft (after the Avanti business-aircraft). Other family members included the Tu-142 maritime patrol aircraft, Tu-114 airliner and Tu-116 VIP transport aircraft.

Developed primarily for the grim nuclear task, the Tu-95 delivered the most destructive bomb of the Cold War, the apocalyptic 50-megaton AN602 'Tsar' bomb. Tested on 30 October 1961, this horrific device created a fire 8 kilometres wide and a mushroom cloud 7.8 times higher than Mount Everest.

3: Tupolev Tu-160 Blackjack

Tupolev Tu-160 Blackjack

The heaviest combat aircraft to ever enter service, the Tupolev Tu-160 is a large supersonic variable-sweep (swing) wing strategic bomber. On a variable geometry wing aircraft, the wing sweep can be adjusted in flight to best suit the speed of the aircraft. Wings are set fully forward for take-off and landing, and fully back for supersonic flight.

It is similar in configuration to the US Rockwell B-1B bomber, but is far larger and far faster (the faster and less stealthy B-1A never entered service). The Tu-160 has a blended wing-body configuration, which offers both a reduction of radar cross-section and aerodynamic advantages.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Tu-160 has a maximum take-off weight of 275,000 kg (606,271 lb), the same weight as over four fully loaded wartime Lancaster bombers. It has a top speed of Mach 2.05, making it faster (by around 190mph or 305km/h) than the fastest operational carrier fighter in the US Navy today.

The Tu-160 (NATO reporting name: Blackjack) first flew on 18 December 1981 and entered operational service in 1987. Because of its service entry date, it was not around for a great deal of time with the Soviet Air Force; it served for only four years before the nation it was conceived to fight for ended. 41 have been built, and in 2021 went back into production for the Russian air force.

2: Tupolev Tu-22 Blinder & Tu-22M Backfire

Tupolev Tu-22 Blinder & Tu-22M Backfire

The Tu-22 was a bomber of unorthodox configuration, with the two engines mounted below the tail, that entered service in 1962. It was beset with design issues and was considered a challenging and dangerous aircraft to fly. It did, however, offer a supersonic top speed.

Among the most exciting roles the Tu-22 (in particular, the Tu-22K) was tasked with was the destruction of US aircraft carrier groups, a daunting mission they trained for in earnest. It was planned that these well-defended targets would be overwhelmed by 24-30 missile-launching Tu-22Rs, supported by Tu-22P jamming aircraft.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ironing out the many flaws of the Tu-22 led to the virtual redesign that was the Tu-22M. To save face, it retained the same Tu-22 designation. The new design relocated the engines and air intakes (which were later modified again), along with a host of other improvements.

The Tu-22M features a variable geometry (swing) wing and is faster and longer than the Tu-22; its weight increased by two tonnes. Unusually, for an aircraft that first flew in 1969, the Tu-22M kept a defensive tail gun. Fast, long-ranged, and heavily armed, the Tu-22M was a formidable machine that remains in service today in updated forms.

1: Sukhoi Su-24 Fencer

Sukhoi Su-24 Fencer

Starting life as the rather exotic T-6, complete with lift jets and a fixed delta wing with downturned tips, by the time the Sukhoi Su-24 design was completed, it was a variable-geometry (swing-) wing design with side-by-side seating optimised for the long-range low-level penetration attack role.

The Su-24 introduced automatic terrain-following radar to Soviet air power, allowing for very fast and low penetrations of hostile airspace to minimise the risk of radar detection. The Su-24 was comparable to the US General Dynamics F-111 (and somewhat bigger than the European Panavia Tornado IDS).

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At maximum load-out, the Su-24 weighs approximately 43,755 kg (96,463 lb). It can carry up to 8000 kg (17,635 lb) of weapons on its nine hardpoints. It also boasts tremendous firepower from its internal 23-mm Gryazev-Shipunov GSh-6-23M Gatling-style rotary cannon.

The Su-24 first flew in 1974, and around 1400 were manufactured. Various Su-24 variants were created for electronic warfare, reconnaissance and maritime attack. Unlike the F-111 and Tornado, the Su-24 uses a turbojet rather than a turbofan engine.

Follow Joe Coles on Substack, Twitter X or Blue Sky. His superb Hush-Kit Book of Warplanes is available here.

If you enjoyed this story, please click the Follow button above to see more like it from Autocar

Photo Licence: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/deed.en

]]>
Newly released body and dashboard camera footage from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) shows that the search for Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland involved a high-speed chase reaching up to 160 mph, K-9 units, and a drone sweep before he was found dead of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound on November 6.

Kneeland, 24, died hours after DPS troopers attempted a traffic stop on the evening of November 5 in suburban Dallas. At the time, authorities did not know the driver was Kneeland and initially believed the Dodge Charger he was operating might have been stolen.

High-Speed Pursuit

According to a DPS offense report released Friday, a trooper began pursuing Kneeland at 10:33 p.m. as he drove northbound on the Dallas North Tollway. The trooper reported the vehicle exceeding 145 mph, while other troopers captured on video estimated speeds as high as 160 mph.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Charger was later found at 10:42 p.m. after crashing into a Ford F-350 in Frisco. The vehicle came to rest in a grassy area near an office park with businesses, offices, and apartments.

A woman whose truck was struck appeared visibly shaken in the video.

I saw him in my rearview mirror coming as fast as he was  then he just plowed into me, she told officers.

Troopers said the Charger had been abandoned. An empty holster was recovered inside the vehicle, leading officers to believe the driver was armed.

Search Involving K-9 Teams, Tunnels, and Drone

Officers initially believed the car might have been stolen and did not know Kneeland was the suspect. A passerby told troopers he saw a man flee on foot through a nearby field, prompting a search across the surrounding office park.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

By 11:20 p.m., DPS and Frisco police officers were searching wooded areas and a series of drainage tunnels.

Frisco K-9. If youre in this tunnel, Im going to send my dog in here. He is going to bite you. This is your last opportunity, an officer announced, according to the footage.

Officers deployed pepper balls into the tunnels and sent a drone into the confined spaces, but did not locate Kneeland.

Authorities Learn the Suspects Identity

By around 1 a.m., investigators had determined the driver was Kneeland. Officers briefly detained his girlfriend, Catalina Mancera, who had arrived at the scene but initially did not disclose her connection to him.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

An officer stated on camera that Mancera told them Kneeland had been sending farewell messages to family members and that she believed he intended to harm himself. Authorities later said she cooperated with officers as the search continued.

About 30 minutes later, Kneeland was found dead in a portable toilet near the search area.

Aftermath

In a Facebook post, Mancera wrote that she still feels as if Kneeland might walk through the door.

My sweet boy is really gone  But now I have you to watch over me and wait for me on the other side, she wrote.

The Dallas Cowboys have announced a memorial fund to support Mancera, who is pregnant with the couples child.
Reversing her stance, Shasta Countys top health official said Wednesday, Nov. 26 that she now supports a $200 million behavioral health campus.

Adding his name to the list of supporters, Supervisor Chris Kelstrom also announced his support for the True North Behavioral Health Campus.

The surprise announcements come a month after Health and Human Services Agency Director Christy Coleman, at a heated special Shasta County Board of Supervisors meeting, gave a presentation that endorsed a letter to oppose the True North proposal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

After the presentation, a divided board voted not to support the campus.

Supervisors Kevin Crye, Corkey Harmon and Kelstrom voted to support Colemans letter opposing the project. Supervisors Allen Long and Matt Plummer voted no. The move prompted people to demonstrate the next day against the supervisors.

In a news release from the Health and Human Services Agency, Coleman stated that the presentation she gave on Oct. 24 reflected only partial information that she had received.

Shasta County Health and Human Services Agency Director Christy Coleman at the Friday, Oct. 24, 2025, Shasta County Board of Supervisors special meeting.

As the person responsible for protecting Shasta County HHSA from budgetary overruns, the information gaps seen then weighed heavily in my initial assessment. Having now received the additional information needed, I am confident this project aligns with the best interests of Shasta County and our broader region, Coleman said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The future of the campus was thrown into limbo after the boards special meeting. But despite Colemans and a majority of the boards opposition, project proponent Arch Collaborative and Signature Healthcare decided to apply for the state grant.

In that separate news release issued Wednesday by Arch Collaborative, Kelstrom threw his support behind the project.

When this previously came before the board, I felt I needed to stand with staff while things were still unclear. Now that theres a solid path forward, Im glad to support this project and submit my Letter of Support, he stated.

Arch Collaborative CEO Kimberly Johnson said in the release that she is grateful for the support.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The True North Behavioral Health Campus reflects a regional, community-driven effort shaped through hundreds of voices across the North State. We are grateful for the partnership shown in recent weeks and remain committed to transparent, collaborative work that strengthens the behavioral health system for our region, she said.

Supporters of a behavioral health campus in Shasta County gathered before the Oct. 28, 2025, supervisors meeting to protest the board's decision not to support the project.

Signature Healthcare is the lead applicant for the state grant that would fund the regional center. The Corona, California-based company also would build the campus on a 20-acre site in Shasta Lake.

The state is expected award the grant in the spring.

Coleman said she has now issued a formal letter of support for the campus to Signature Healthcare, adding that county health is committed to working with regional partners to bolster the areas crisis response, expand behavioral health treatment, and bring more needed resources into Shasta County.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The campus also has the support of other county officials, such as Shasta Sheriff Michael Johnson, Shasta Community Health Center CEO Brandon Thornock, Shasta Office of Education Superintendent Mike Freeman and State Sen. Megan Dahle.

At the October special meeting, Supervisor Crye, who chairs the board, made it clear that he was against the campus, calling the project a boondoggle and at one point evil.

Coleman in her Wednesday announcement echoed what many supporters of the project have said, that the True North campus would keep mental health patients closer to home.

This would offer a meaningful shift for our residents and for our system of care. In addition, it would allow Shasta County to leverage federal match dollars for behavioral health care, Coleman said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We are strongest when we work together, and the True North Behavioral Health Campus project has reminded me how essential unity and collaboration are to meeting our communitys behavioral health needs, she added.

David Benda covers business, development and anything else that comes up for the USA TODAY Network in Redding. He also writes the weekly "Buzz on the Street" column. Hes part of a team of dedicated reporters that investigate wrongdoing, cover breaking news and tell other stories about your community. Reach him on Twitter @DavidBenda_RS or by phone at 1-530-338-8323. To support and sustain this work, please subscribe today.

This article originally appeared on Redding Record Searchlight: Shasta County's top health official now supports $200 million campus
BEIJING, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- China is advancing a strategy to boost its capacity for nurturing original cultural creation, a move aligned with its 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) and poised to promote the production of outstanding works in fields such as the press, publishing, radio, television, film, literature and art.

Over the past five years, China's cultural scene has been on a remarkable upswing. In 2024 alone, the cultural industry pulled in a revenue of over 19.14 trillion yuan (about 2.7 trillion U.S. dollars), marking a 37.7 percent surge from 2020. From the mythic world of the video game "Black Myth: Wukong" to the runaway success of the animated epic "Ne Zha 2," a wave of homegrown hits is capturing global attention and earning widespread acclaim.

"Innovation and creativity are the lifeblood of culture," said Li Shulei, a senior publicity official. He believes that one of the key reasons Chinese civilization has endured and renewed itself over thousands of years is its ability to adapt itself to the changing times and break new ground.

Noting that cultural development still has its gaps and shortcomings, Li emphasized the need to empower the people as the main drivers of cultural creation and ignite their innovative energy.

To that end, China has rolled out a raft of policies and measures to encourage cultural creativity in recent years and made "inspire the cultural creativity of the entire nation and foster a thriving socialist culture" a priority in the Communist Party of China Central Committee's recommendations for formulating the 15th Five-Year Plan.

These measures range from promoting new forms of literature and art for the general public in the internet age to developing a contingent of high-performing, dedicated and innovative personnel in the cultural sector.

According to Zhou Zhiqiang, a professor at the School of Arts of Nankai University in north China's Tianjin, fostering a healthy cultural ecosystem requires a well-rounded system for cultural production, evaluation and market development.

He recommends strengthening intellectual property protections, clearly prioritizing originality in various awards, and increasing funding support for original projects.

On nurturing cultural talent, Zhou stressed the need to break free from the constraints of traditional education and establish a collaborative system linking creators with university researchers, providing young artists with a broader space to grow.

"We must encourage cultural creators to push boundaries, innovate, and fully unleash their imagination," he said.

Yue Wen, head of the creative research department of the China Writers Association, believes that the profound and expansive Chinese civilization offers a wellspring for original cultural creation, while the sweeping and far-reaching social transformations China is undergoing offer an unprecedented treasure trove for creative expression.

According to her observation, China's cultural creativity is now surging, and the country is moving from a "plateau" of cultural output toward a "peak."

She also noted that strong policy support provides a solid foundation for cultural innovation and creates a more favorable environment for creators.

"We are confident in nurturing more outstanding works that are grounded in the lives of the people while looking toward the future," she said. 
Nov. 27 (UPI) -- One of two wounded National Guard members who were shot near the White House while patrolling the capital on Wednesday died on Thursday.

Sarah Beckstrom, 20, died of her wounds early Thursday evening, President Donald Trump announced ahead of a 6 p.m. EST call to U.S. military service members who are deployed overseas.

"I want to express the anguish and the horror of our entire nation at the terrorist attack yesterday in our nation's capital in which a savage monster gunned down two of our service members in the West Virginia National Guard, who were deployed as part of the [District of Columbia" task force, which has done such an incredible job," the president said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Until yesterday, we literally had no incidents for several months. It was the safest place imaginable," Trump said, adding that "millions of Americans" are praying for them and their families.

"I must, unfortunately, tell you that ... Sarah Beckstrom, of West Virginia, one of the Guardsmen we were just talking about, she has just passed away. She's no longer with us," the president announced.

Trump said he learned of her death just moments before his scheduled virtual Thanksgiving call with U.S. military personnel.

He described Beckstrom as a "highly respected, young [and] magnificent person" who began her National Guard service in June of 2023 and was "outstanding in every way."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He said Andrew Wolfe, 24, is "fighting for his life" but is "in very bad shape, and, hopefully, we'll get better news with respect to him."

Trump added that their suspected shooter Rahmanulla Lakanwal, 29, is in "serious condition, but we won't even talk about him."

The shooting occurred at 2:15 p.m. EST at the same location as the Farragut West Metro Station, which is located about two blocks northwest of the White House.

"Unfortunately, today, as most families join together to give thanks for the blessings that have been bestowed upon them, two families are shattered and destroyed and torn apart as the result of the actions of one man," Jeanine Pirro, U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, said during a Thursday morning news conference.

"Our hearts go out to the victims and their families," Pirro said. "These are dedicated service members who were performing their duties in service to our nation."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She said they are in critical condition and have undergone surgery and continue to be cared for "in the best possible way."

Pirro described the shooting as a "brazen and targeted attack" in which shooting suspect Lakanwal ambushed Beckstrom and Wolfe while he was armed with a .357 Smith & Wesson revolver.

Lakanwal shot the first at very close range and leaned over and shot again before turning his attention to the second Guardsman, whom he shot several times, Pirro said.

Other National Guardsmen located nearby immediately responded, engaged Lakanwal, who was shot and transported to a local hospital, where he remains under heavy guard, Pirro said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

FBI Director Kash Patel told reporters that the FBI is leading an "ongoing investigation into terrorism" and an assault on a federal law enforcement officer.

Law enforcement secured the crime scene, recovered the firearm used and began block-by-block canvassing to locate and interview witnesses.

Evidence has been collected and sent to the FBI's forensics laboratory in Quantico, Va., and multiple search warrants have been issued across the country.

Sites being searched include Lakanwal's last known residence in Bellingham, Wash., where he was living with his wife and their five children before driving across the country and allegedly carrying out Wednesday's attack on the National Guard members.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Law enforcement interviewed Lakanwal's family members and will seek further information from anyone associated with him, including individuals who are located in San Diego, where he has ties, Patel said.

"This is a coast-to-coast investigation being led right here in Washington, D.C.," he added. "This subject definitely did pick the wrong country."

Lakanwal is an Afghan national who entered the country in 2021 while participating in a Biden administration resettlement program.

He qualified for relocation to the United States due to his service with an Afghanistan military unit that had worked with the CIA and the U.S. military prior to the U.S. withdrawal from that nation in 2021.

Updated to announce Sarah Beckstrom's death.
With holiday shopping season already in full force, it's important to remember to support local businesses as well.

While Amazon, Target and other big chain stores will be running deals and discounts during Thanksgiving week, local stores will also need support. Small Business Saturday is your opportunity to make sure the mom and pop shops are able to sustain themselves and some are offering some great deals and discounts, too.

Shopping at a small business stimulates the local economy, helps you make more meaningful and sustainable purchases and helps drive competitiveness and innovation, according to Bentley University.

Advertisement Advertisement

There are a few locations around the Valley that will be holding Small Business Saturday events. Here's how you can support local.

Phoenix Flea

Phoenix Flea will hosting its 12th annual Small Business Saturday Market in downtown Phoenix.

"As Arizonas original Small Business Saturday event, Phoenix Flea offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to shop small and support more than 125 local businesses and food trucks, all gathered in Heritage Square and Science Park," their website states.

Phoenix Flea was established in 2013 as a modern market showcasing the best makers, brands and curators from the Southwest.

Some of the vendors include Charlotte Yiu Art, Desert Rat Collective, Earth Cowboy, Hilali Jewelry, Mama's Cold Brew, Naked Rebellion, phx.found and Truly Blessed Jewels.

Advertisement Advertisement

Details: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29. Heritage & Science Park/Historic Heritage Square, 115 N. Sixth St., Phoenix. $7.18 online, $5 at the gate. eventbrite.com.

Sue Castelletti operates a chain stitching machine in the center of the Phoenix Lettering booth at the 2023 Phoenix Flea Market on Nov. 25, 2023.

Central Arts Market

There will be an open-air arts market at the Roosevelt Row Apartments, showcasing creative small businesses of all skill levels and crafts.

Details: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 29. Free. Roosevelt Row Apartments, 330 E. Roosevelt St. @centralartsmarket.

Uptown Market Phoenix

Colton Higgins of Poffcakes Poffertjes makes mini pancakes at the Uptown Farmers Market on Jan. 7, 2023, in Phoenix.

There's no better way to support local than by visiting your local farmer's market which includes a variety of vendors, from food and treats to crafts and home goods.

Details: 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29. Free. Uptown Market AZ, 5757 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. uptownmarketaz.com, @uptownmarketaz.

Downtown PHX Farmers Market

Another market nearby that offers a variety of produce, food, body care, household products, artisan goods, plants and pet supplies is the Downtown PHX Farmers Market, which is held every Saturday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Details: 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 29. Free. Downtown PHX Farmers Market, 720 N. Fifth St., Phoenix. downtownphoenixfarmersmarket.org, @dtphxfarmersmarket.

Small Business Saturday Holiday Market

GenuWine Arizona will be holding a Small Business Saturday Holiday Market where there will be unique gifts, handcrafted items and treats from a variety of vendors.

Details: 12-3 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 29. Free. GenuWine Arizona, 888 N. First Ave. #101, Phoenix. eventbrite.com, 602-682-7494.

When is Small Business Saturday 2025?

Small Business Saturday will be held on Saturday, Nov. 29 in 2025.

Do you have a tip or a question you need answered? Reach the reporter at dina.kaur@arizonarepublic.com. Follow @dina_kaur on X, formerly known as Twitter, and on Instagram @dina_kaur.

Support local journalism. Subscribe to azcentral.com today.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: 5 markets to shop for Small Business Saturday in metro Phoenix
A 67-year-old MAX bus driver died Wednesday after his bus hit a Birmingham building.

The wreck happened at 6:51 a.m. in the 2800 block of 28th Avenue North.

The driver, identified as John Scott, was taken to UAB Hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

Four passengers on the bus were not injured.

This is a devastating loss for our entire BJCTA family, BJCTA said in a statement following the drivers death.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While the official cause of death has not yet been determined, early indications suggest a sudden medical emergency occurred while the operator was performing his duties.

We are in contact with the operators family and are offering our full support during this extremely difficult time, the statement said. We ask the community and media to please respect the privacy of the family and our employees as we grieve.

BJCTA spokeswoman Amanda Hare said Birmingham police are leading the investigation, and said MAX officials are fully cooperating, including providing onboard camera footage and all necessary information.

We extend our sincere appreciation to the first responders, medical personnel, and our staff who acted quickly this morning, according to the statement. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the operators loved ones.

Stories by Carol Robinson

Read the original article on al.com.
NEED TO KNOW

Search and rescue teams are currently looking for a 76-year-old cruise ship passenger in the Atlantic Ocean

The British man fell overboard from the TUI Marella Explorer 2 cruise ship off the coast of Tenerife, Spain, on Thursday, Nov. 27

The vacationer reportedly has not been seen since he fell into the water



Search and rescue teams are currently looking for a missing cruise ship passenger in the Atlantic Ocean.

The unnamed 76-year-old British man fell overboard from the TUI Marella Explorer 2 cruise ship off the coast of Tenerife, Spain, on Thursday, Nov. 27, reported local outlets El Dia and Voz Populi, and U.K. newspaper Metro.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The vacationer reportedly has not been seen since he fell into the water under circumstances that are currently unknown, El Dia added.

The incident occurred around 16 nautical miles from Punta de Teno, the outlet continued.

While officials tried to search for the man on Thursday, they revealed that they were continuing their operation on Friday.



Alamy Maritime Spanish Rescue helicopter training Maritime Spanish Rescue helicopter training

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 juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

It has been confirmed he went overboard and is aged 76. The search for him started yesterday and is continuing today. The search was relaunched at first light this morning, the Spanish coastguard spokesperson told Metro.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a statement to PEOPLE, TUI group said, We are deeply saddened to confirm that a guest was seen entering the water while the ship was on passage to La Gomera.

Getty Marella Explorer 2 Cruise ship Marella Explorer 2 Cruise ship

Our thoughts are with the individual and their loved ones during this difficult time, they added. Our dedicated care team is supporting the family, providing assistance and comfort. We are working closely with local authorities and will continue to offer every possible support.

Following the incident, the captain of the 800-feet-long ship  which had been traveling from Madeira to the Canary Islands  stopped the vessel and activated the "man overboard" protocol, per Voz Populi and El Dia.

This included checking cameras, circular search maneuvers and the launch of marker rafts.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The search operation also includes two specialised vessels and an emergency helicopter, the outlet reported.

The Spanish coastguard did not immediately reply to PEOPLE's request for information.

Read the original article on People
The Allegheny County Medical Examiners Office has ruled the death of a 9-month-old baby girls death a homicide on Friday.

According to the medical examiners report, Lena Bedri died at UPMC Childrens after an incident in the 200 block of Cobblestone Drive in Ohio Twp on April 27.

The cause of death was listed as combined drug intoxication of citalopram/escitalopram and verapamil. Citalopram/escitalopram are both selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and verapamil is acalcium channel blocker.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The manner of death was ruled a homicide.

Channel 11 reached out to Allegheny County Police Department.

ACPD shared that they are aware of the Medical Examiners determination in this incident. The investigation remains active and ongoing. No other details were available at this time.

Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW
Afghans living in the US have condemned Wednesday's "deeply tragic" deadly shooting attack in Washington DC, while stressing that the suspect - who moved to the US from Afghanistan four years ago - did not represent them.

The alleged gunman, 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, entered the US under a programme that offered special immigration protections to Afghans who had worked with US forces in Afghanistan, in the wake of its troop withdrawal from the country in 2021.

National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom, 20, was killed in Wednesday's shooting, while her colleague, Andrew Wolfe, 24, is said to be fighting for his life.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In response, US President Donald Trump has halted the processing of all immigration requests from Afghans, ordered a review of green cards issued to individuals from 19 countries, and threatened a wider crackdown on migrants from what he calls "third-world countries".

On Friday, his administration also said it had halted all decisions on asylum claims.

The Afghan Community Coalition of the United States expressed its sympathy for the families of the victims, calling for a "comprehensive investigation" while urging the US government not to delay or suspend Afghan immigration claims.

"Twenty years of Afghan-US partnership must not be forgotten," the coalition's statement said, nodding to the two-decade effort launched by the US in 2001 to overthrow Afghanistan's Taliban rulers and establish security in the country.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Afghans living in the US told the BBC they had been horrified by the Washington DC attack, which they emphasised was the act of just one person.

Some spoke anonymously out of fear of reprisals by the Taliban, which took back control of Afghanistan following the 2021 US withdrawal.

One of the Afghans, who moved to the US after the military withdrawal, described Wednesday's incident as "deeply tragic". He noted that it occurred ahead of Thanksgiving and amid a "highly charged political environment in Washington DC".

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But he highlighted that the shooting was an "individual criminal offence, not representative of a community".

"Afghans in the United States are hardworking, tax paying members of society," he said. "They remain grateful to America for the evacuation efforts during the crisis in Kabul."

Thousands of Afghans scrambled to escape the country in 2021, many via Kabul, as the US withdrew its troops and the Taliban swept in.

The suspect, Mr Lakanwal, is said by US officials to have worked with US forces in Afghanistan while they were stationed there. He helped guard US forces at Kabul airport at the time of the withdrawal, a former military commander who served alongside him told the BBC.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He came to the US the same year. He applied for asylum in 2024, and his application was granted earlier this year, an official told the BBC's US partner, CBS News.

Another Afghan, who also moved to the US following the country's withdrawal from Afghanistan, labelled Wednesday's shooting "really shocking". He said he was praying for the families of the victims.

He suspected that it was an "individual crime which is committed without any support, participation and co-operation of others", and said the attack "should not be counted for the whole community".

Another Afghan man living in the US told the BBC that the shooting had been a "very devastating event for all immigrants", adding that the political reaction had left many people in a state of uncertainty.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The situation felt more acute due to the threats in his country of origin, he said. "For us Afghans there's problem for us in Afghanistan as well as here."

Crystal Bayat, an Afghan human rights activist who moved to the US after 2021, said that, despite having secured permanent residency, she still feared the US government could abruptly change course on Afghan migrants.

"I have a fear every single day that what if the policy changes and they deport us from here?" Ms Bayat told the BBC World Service's Outside Source.

"I hope President Trump changes his mind on this," Ms Bayat said. "It is very dangerous to punish entire immigrant communities, or the people who stood shoulder to shoulder with the [American] people."

She said there were families who were still in danger in Afghanistan due to their support of the US before the withdrawal.
Incriminating audio. A military demanding oversight. And a powerful leader from abroad, trying to sway voters to the right.

Those are just three of the scandals that have made Sundays presidential election in Honduras one of the most closely watched votes in the countrys history.

Already, even before the polls have opened, some high-level politicians are alleging that a stolen vote is under way.

Outgoing President Xiomara Castro, for instance, has compared the situation to a criminal conspiracy aimed at staging an electoral coup.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But experts who spoke to Al Jazeera said that the public has grown accustomed to the uncertainty and upheaval.

After all, Hondurass democracy is only about four decades old, and during that time, the country has struggled with government corruption and even a coup detat.

Obviously, theres a fear of violence or a coup, said Daniel Valladares, an activist and history professor at the National Autonomous University of Honduras. But its a fear weve always had.

In the final days before the election, Valladares has observed a tense calm grip the Central American country.

The environment is normal, he said. Its the same thing people always say: I hope there isnt a sh** show.

The leading presidential candidates include Nasry Asfura of the National Party, Rixi Moncada of the LIBRE party, and Salvador Nasralla of the Liberal Party [Leonel Estrada and Fredy Rodriguez/Reuters]

Unclear poll results

Part of the uncertainty ahead of this years election stems from the poll numbers. None of the five presidential candidates on the ballot holds a definitive lead.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There are, however, three frontrunners, considered to be neck and neck in the race.

Voters on Sunday are most likely to choose between Rixi Moncada, the candidate for Castros left-leaning LIBRE Party; Salvador Nasralla of the centre-right Liberal Party; and Nasry Tito Asfura of the conservative National Party.

None of the three has definitively pulled ahead, and voter surveys have fluctuated wildly.

For instance, one poll conducted by the Instituto de la Justicia found Moncada trailing. She had 25 percent support, compared with Asfuras 31 percent and Nasrallas 40.

Another poll, meanwhile, showed Moncada in the lead. More than 44 percent of those surveyed by the Mexican firm TResearch backed the left-wing candidate, compared with 19.6 percent for Nasralla and 14.8 percent for Asfura.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Other surveys have shown the three candidates in a virtual tie.

That ambiguity has led to recriminations from the major parties in the election, with each side accusing the other of manipulating the vote.

Asfura, for instance, has accused the governing LIBRE party of wielding pressure and abuse against election officials. He threatened to mobilise his supporters in protest.

Yes, we are going to take to the streets so that there are elections and so that there is democracy and freedom, he told the television network HCH.

Moncada, meanwhile, alleged at one of her rallies that there was an illicit partnership between rival parties to steal the elections.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We will take the necessary measures to defend the vote of every Honduran man and woman, she told the crowd.

Soldiers stand guard near boxes of electoral ballots in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, on November 20 [Leonel Estrada/Reuters]

Infighting at the election council

The heated rhetoric stems from several scandals. But one of the most prominent erupted in late October.

A government body known as the National Electoral Council (CNE) organises the countrys elections. It is composed of three officials, selected to represent the countrys three main political parties.

But on October 29, Marlon Ochoa, the LIBRE representative, delivered audio to prosecutors that purported to capture a conversation between his CNE colleague Cossette Lopez and an unnamed military official.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In the recording, Lopez, who represents the right-leaning National Party, allegedly discusses plans to sabotage the electoral process by altering the popular vote and staging a possible boycott.

What I am sure of is that the military is on our side, Lopez allegedly said.

Attorney General Johel Zelaya has asserted that the recording is real, and he has opened an investigation into the incident.

But Congressional Deputy Tomas Zambrano, who is also featured on the recording, maintained the audio is totally false, fabricated and manipulated with artificial intelligence.

He and Asfura have defended Lopez, framing the investigation as a campaign to undermine her authority.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But the audio scandal was not the only conflict to shake the CNE.

Also in October, the head of Hondurass armed forces, Roosevelt Hernandez, demanded that the military be allowed to conduct its own count of the upcoming election results.

Hernandez is perceived to be allied with LIBRE. Ana Paola Hall, the president of the CNE and a member of the Liberal Party, denounced his demand as interference in the election process.

Watchdog groups have echoed those concerns. Human Rights Watch, for instance, issued a statement saying the military does not have any authority to access, count, transmit or review the results.

Cossette Lopez, a counsellor at the National Electoral Council (CNE), has faced scrutiny over leaked recordings [Leonel Estrada/Reuters]

Trump weighs in

Adding to the election turmoil is pressure from abroad.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hondurass largest trading partner is the United States, and the two countries have closely collaborated on issues like combating drug trafficking.

But right-wing leaders in the US have spread false information before Sundays election, stirring further fears about the integrity of the election.

On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump weighed in personally on his Truth Social platform.

He endorsed Asfuro while falsely describing the conservative candidates two closest rivals as puppets of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.

A Moncada victory, Trump wrote, would hand the country over to Maduro and his narco-terrorists. And Nasralla, the US president alleged, is a borderline Communist who seeks to split the right-wing vote.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Communists are trying to trick the people by running a third Candidate, Salvador Nasralla, Trump wrote. The people of Honduras must not be tricked again. The only real friend of Freedom in Honduras is Tito Asfura.

Trump is not alone in turning up the heat from the US.

Florida Congresswoman Maria Elvira Salazar, a Republican, has likewise accused Moncada of being in Maduros pocket, saying the LIBRE candidate would drag Honduras into a socialist hell.

Valladares believes the US pressure campaign is the result of coordination with Hondurass right wing.

The fact that theyve gone so far as to request that a congresswoman write a note [about the election] is frightening, said Valladares.

Honduran presidential candidate Nasry Asfura has received backing from US President Donald Trump [Leonel Estrada/Reuters]

Ghosts of the past

On Hondurass left, the pressure has reawakened memories of the military coup that toppled President Castros husband, Manuel Mel Zelaya.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The ghost of the 2009 coup still looms large in the country. Three years into his term, Zelaya had proposed holding a referendum to rewrite Hondurass constitution.

But the pushback was swift. The Supreme Court issued a secret warrant for his arrest, and soldiers forced Zelaya into exile, placing him on an aeroplane to Costa Rica against his will.

Political violence spiked after the coup, and a series of contested elections followed, with right-wing governments elected each time.

In an October 29 post, President Castro compared that turmoil to the present-day election proceedings.

The same groups that violated the Constitution in the 2009 coup and perpetrated the electoral frauds of 2013 and 2017 are now attempting once again to supplant the will of the people, sow chaos, and hijack popular sovereignty, she wrote.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In an interview with Al Jazeera, Illiam Rivera, a biology professor and LIBRE activist, accused business interests in the country of attempting to torpedo the lefts chances of re-election.

Theres a lot of uncertainty, said Rivera. The Honduran right, financed by the countrys economic power groups, has triggered an insane media campaign against the candidate of the LIBRE party, Rixi Moncada.

Another activist, Guido Eguguire, told Al Jazeera that he feared a repeat of the 2017 election cycle.

In 2017, there was a blackout in the voting system that hid the results in real-time, he said. Were worried that there will be dynamics like what will happen in 2017.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Still, Eguguire said, what Honduras is experiencing now is nothing new. He described the corruption allegations as an endemic problem that Sundays vote alone would not solve.

Fraud has been a common practice in the country, he said. Frauds and coups. Its been part of our story.

The Organization of American States, comprised of 33 member countries, has already announced it plans to send 100 election monitors to Honduras for Sundays vote.

It called for election officials to carry out their work in accordance with the law, free from interference and undue pressure of any political actor.
Airlines around the world canceled and delayed flights heading into the weekend to fix software on a widely used commercial aircraft after an analysis found the computer code may have contributed to a sudden drop in the altitude of a JetBlue plane last month.

Airbus said Friday that an examination of the JetBlue incident revealed that intense solar radiation may corrupt data critical to the functioning of flight controls on the A320 family of aircraft.

The FAA joined the European Union Aviation Safety Agency in requiring airlines to address the issue with a new software update. More than 500 U.S.-registered aircraft will be impacted.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The EU safety agency said it may cause short-term disruption to flight schedules. The problem was introduced by a software update to the plane's onboard computers, according to the agency.

In Japan, All Nippon Airways, which operates more than 30 planes, canceled 65 domestic flights for Saturday. Additional cancellations on Sunday were possible, it said.

The software change comes as U.S. passengers were beginning to head home from the Thanksgiving holiday, which is the busiest travel time in the country.

American Airlines has about 480 planes from the A320 family, of which 209 are affected. The fix should take about two hours for many aircraft and updates should be completed for the overwhelming majority on Friday, the airline said. A handful will be finished Saturday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

American expected some delays but it said it was focused on limiting cancellations. It said safety would be its overriding priority.

Air India said via the social platform X that its engineers were working on the fix and completed the reset on more 40% of aircraft that need it. There were no cancellations, it said.

Delta said it expected the issue to affect less than 50 of its A321neo aircraft. United said six planes in its fleet are affected and it expects minor disruptions to a few flights. Hawaiian Airlines said it was unaffected.

Mike Stengel, a partner with the aerospace industry management consulting firm AeroDynamic Advisory, said the fix could be addressed between flights or on overnight plane checks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Definitely not ideal for this to be happening on a very ubiquitous aircraft on a busy holiday weekend, Stengel said from Ann Arbor, Michigan. Although again the silver lining being that it only should take a few hours to update the software.

At least 15 JetBlue passengers were injured and taken to the hospital after the Oct. 30 incident on board the flight from Cancun, Mexico, to Newark, New Jersey. The plane was diverted to Tampa, Florida.

Airbus, which is registered in the Netherlands but has its main headquarters in France, is one of the world's biggest airplane manufacturers, alongside Boeing.

The A320 is the primary competitor to Boeing's 737, Stengel said. Airbus updated its engine in the mid-2010s, and planes in this category are called A320neo, he said.

The A320 is the worlds bestselling single-aisle aircraft family, according to Airbus' website.

___

Associated Press writers Mari Yamaguchi in Tokyo and Jennifer Kelleher in Honolulu contributed.
A longtime Roman Catholic priest in Alabama has voluntarily left the clergy after a woman alleged to his superiors that he provided her financial support in exchange for private companionship including sex beginning when she was 17.

Robert Sullivans self-imposed removal from the priesthood  known as laicization  was announced Wednesday, the day before the US holiday of Thanksgiving, in a public statement from Birmingham, Alabama, by Bishop Steven Raica.

The woman who accused Sullivan, Heather Jones, filed her allegations in a formal written statement to the Birmingham diocese that she then shared exclusively with the Guardian in August. Jones, now 33, also maintained that Sullivan had paid her hundreds of thousands of dollars to remain silent about their arrangement, backing up her claim with financial and email records, along with a copy of a legal agreement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Raicas letter said a subsequent church investigation into the significant payments alleged to have been made by then-father Sullivan  found no link between the allegations and any diocesan, parish or school funds.

These four months since the allegations surfaced have been challenging in the life of our local church, Raicas letter added. I am grateful for the patience and resilience of all who have been affected directly or indirectly by this matter.

Members of the priesthood from which Sullivan, 61, chose to resign promise to be abstinent and teach that sex out of wedlock is sinful. Furthermore, people younger than 18 are classified as minors and sexual contact with them considered to be abusive  under policies which US Catholic bishops adopted in the early 2000s amid the worldwide churchs decades-old clergy molestation scandal.

There is no indication Sullivan has drawn scrutiny from lay authorities, however. It wasnt until the spring of 2024 that Alabama  whose legal age of sexual consent is 16  made it a felony for clergy to engage in sexual activity with persons younger than 19.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Alabama, meanwhile, is not among the US states with laws that say a power imbalance makes it impossible for there to be consensual sex between clergy and older adults who are under the clerics spiritual guidance.

In her statement to Sullivans superiors as well as in an interview with the Guardian, Jones recounted growing up in foster care after being removed from her mothers custody due to severe neglect. She wrote that she lacked reliable adult support during her formative years and therefore tried to make ends meet by working as a dancer at an adult establishment outside Birmingham.

Jones said she was 17 when she met Sullivan at that establishment, where she managed to land a job despite being under an applicable age limit. Sullivan was a regular patron, made it a point to tip her during her shifts and soon offered to help change [her] life if she called him on a phone number he slipped her, she wrote.

Sullivan then proposed to form an ongoing relationship that would include financial support in exchange for private companionship, Jones wrote. Jones said Sullivan went on to take her shopping, dining, drinking, and to hotel rooms in at least six different Alabama cities in part to engage in sex  beginning when she was 17 and over the course of several years.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He was said to have initially presented himself as a medical doctor, though Jones later learned he was a priest.

At the time, I was a minor, with no experience navigating adult relationships, and no understanding of how power and influence could be used to manipulate someone vulnerable, Jones wrote in her complaint. I was hesitant but ultimately agreed due to his persistence and the desperate state I was in.

Jones said she grappled with depression, addiction and emotional instability during her arrangement with Sullivan. She said she eventually spoke out against Sullivan  defying their agreement for her to stay silent about them  because he had continued working closely with families and their children as the otherwise popular pastor of Our Lady of Sorrows church in Homewood, Alabama. That made her worried others may be vulnerable to the same type of manipulation and exploitation that she endured, as she put it.

Additionally, in 2020, Raica had appointed Sullivan to serve as one of the Birmingham dioceses vicars general, meaning he held a high-ranking administrative position.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sullivan told congregants at Our Lady of Sorrows 3 August mass he was taking personal leave. He did not provide a reason, but Jones by then had filed her complaint against him with the diocese.

Raica issued a letter to his dioceses congregants informing them of the allegations against Sullivan and the reason for his leave on 13 August, the same day that the Guardian reported Joness story. That letter also said the diocese had forwarded Joness allegations to the Vatican entity which investigates cases of clergy misconduct.

Sullivan later asked Pope Leo XIV to be dispensed from all the obligations of the priesthood, Wednesdays statement from Raica said. The pontiff granted the request on Monday, Raicas missive said.

Jones did not immediately comment on Sullivans laicization.

Sullivan was ordained a priest in 1993, according to a previous Our Lady of Sorrows social media post.
PORTSMOUTH  A 22-year-old Boxford, Massachusetts man was arrested Nov. 27 on multiple charges following a pursuit ending in Portsmouth, according to New Hampshire State Police.

Trooper Cameron Vetter attempted about 10:21 p.m. to stop the driver of a 2016 BMW X3, allegedly driving more than 120 mph, leading to the pursuit, police said. The vehicle's exterior lights were off and the man was driving erratically, according to police.

The driver took Exit 5, toward the Portsmouth traffic circle, and went south on Route 1, according to police. The pursuit ended for safety reasons, police said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trooper Patrick Vetter located the BMW behind a business off Lafayette Road, where the suspect was arrested. He was charged with a felony count of reckless conduct and misdemeanor counts of aggravated driving under the influence of liquor and disobeying an officer.

More local news: Papa Jay's Pizzeria 'shaken up' by robbery in Dover. Cousin reported suspect.

The suspect was held in preventive detention and transported to the Rockingham County Jail, where he was being held pending an appearance scheduled in Portsmouth District Court on Nov. 28.

State police ask anyone with information that may assist in the investigation to contact Trooper Cameron Vetter at Cameron.S.Vetter@dos.nh.gov.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Alleged 120 mph DUI driver in I-95 chase arrested in Portsmouth
OSLO, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- One person died and several others were injured after an "explosive" apartment fire in Copenhagen on Friday morning, local police said.

Copenhagen Police said on the social media platform X that officers and the Danish capital's emergency services were called to a fire in an apartment building on Virkefeltet in the Tingbjerg district, where an "explosive" blaze had broken out in one flat and a person was later found dead inside.

Three people suffered smoke inhalation and were taken to hospital but were not believed to be seriously injured. Another person injured a foot after jumping from a window to escape the fire, local media reported.

Several surrounding apartments were evacuated as firefighters brought the blaze under control and police began technical investigations at the scene. Later in the day, residents in parts of the building were allowed to return to their homes, while apartments in the same stairwell as the fire-damaged unit remained evacuated, police said.

There are currently no indications that the fire was caused by criminal activity, but the cause of the blaze is still under investigation, according to police. 
Amazon is working to school customers on potential scams ahead of the holiday shopping season. The online retail giant is especially urging shoppers to be vigilant of impersonation scams, where scammers pretend to be representatives of Amazon and steal personal information or money.

The company confirmed to USA TODAY on Friday, Nov. 28 that Amazon has been sending customers messages about avoiding such scams. When asked about the notices, Amazon clarified the messages are not warnings or alerts as other outlets have reported, but "educational efforts" to protect customers.

The company first started sending out the messaging in early November to U.S. customers, and customers in the United Kingdom this week.

Advertisement Advertisement

More: Rare Apple Watch Black Friday deals at Amazon: Series 11, Ultra 2, SE

As temperatures hovered in the mid twenties a crowd of hearty shoppers wrapped around the store at Bass Pro Shops in Louisville, KY, on November 28, 2025. People go inside Target during Black Friday shopping on November 28, 2025 in Jersey City, New Jersey. Shoppers stream into Bass Pro Shops in Louisville, KY, on November 28, 2025 Shoppers wait outside for Black Friday deals in Westbury, New York, on November 28, 2025. People queue to go inside Target during Black Friday shopping on November 28, 2025 in Jersey City, New Jersey. See shoppers brave long lines for Black Friday 2025 deals 1 of 5 As temperatures hovered in the mid twenties a crowd of hearty shoppers wrapped around the store at Bass Pro Shops in Louisville, KY, on November 28, 2025.

Here's what to know about Amazon's notices  and what to do if you think someone may be trying to scam you.

Amazon users are a top target for scammers

Amazon is estimated to have over 310 million active users worldwide, per AMZScout, which uses Chrome and other apps to conduct product research.

In October 2021, Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reported that 1 in 3 customers claimed someone contacting them claiming to be Amazon representatives. Some people reported that the scammers begged them for help and said Amazon would fire them if they didnt help them.

Among businesses scammers reportedly impersonated, Amazon was at the top at 35%, followed by Apple at 6%.

About 96,000 people reported being targeted, and nearly 6,000 said they lost money, the FTC wrote in the report. Reported losses totaled more than $27 million. The reported median individual loss: $1,000.

Advertisement Advertisement

USA TODAY has contacted the FTC for more recent numbers.

Christy Vargas of Amazons public relations team said on Nov. 28 that scammers put Amazon consumers at risk.

We will continue to invest in protecting consumers and educating the public on scam avoidance, Vargas wrote in an email. We encourage consumers to report suspected scams to us so that we can protect their accounts and refer bad actors to law enforcement to help keep consumers safe.

What is an impersonation scam?

Impersonation scams, the subject of Amazons educational notices to customers, occur when scammers pretend to be trustworthy organizations or people with the goal of stealing money or personal information.

Illustration picture shows the Amazon logo on the building of Amazon Logistics, in Antwerp, on Thursday Oct. 30, 2025.

Scammers typically carry out these impersonation scams by calling, emailing, texting, and messaging victims on social media, Amazon said on its website.

Advertisement Advertisement

The goal is to get unsuspecting customers to make a payment, share personal information, or give the scammers access to their computers. The scammers pose as organizations or businesses customers have previously interacted with.

How do I spot an impersonation scam?

According to Amazon, some characteristics of impersonation scams include:

False urgency  Scammers try to create a sense of urgency to get customers to do what they want.

Asking for personal information  Scammers may try to get information such as addresses, payment information, account login credentials, or financial information.

Purchases outside of Amazon  Scammers often ask victims to send them money outside of the Amazon website or mobile app through a third-party site or wire transfer.

Payment via gift cards  Scammers may ask victims to buy gift cards and pay with those, or ask for gift card numbers, claim codes, or PINs.

Unexpected orders  Victims may get notifications of orders or deliveries they did not expect. If customers receive notice of orders they didnt place, they should go to the official Amazon website or app and check their order history.

I received a suspicious message or call. How do I report it?

Amazon has specific links for those who have received suspicious communication. Scenarios and links include:

Advertisement Advertisement

Those without Amazon accounts can still report suspicious messages by emailing an attachment of the messages to reportascam@amazon.com. Amazon said the company wont respond personally but those who file reports may get automated messages back.

Other options to report potential scams include reporting to the FTC at www.reportfraud.ftc.gov.

Amazon said customers can find more information on how to identify scams at www.tinyurl.com/AmazonIDScams and report scams at www.tinyurl.com/AmazonScamReport.

Advertisement Advertisement

Saleen Martin is a reporter on USA TODAY's NOW team. She is from Norfolk, Virginia  the 757. Email her at sdmartin@usatoday.com.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Amazon alerts shoppers to be mindful of scams. Here's what to know.
BRUSSELS (Reuters) -U.S. tech giant Apple told the European Commission its core platform services Apple Ads and Apple Maps meet the thresholds set by the Digital Markets Act, the Commission said in a statement on Friday.

The EU Commission has 45 working days to decide whether to designate Apple as a gatekeeper for any of these services and if designated, Apple will have six months to comply with the act's requirements. 

(Reporting by Inti Landauro and Charlotte Van Campenhout;Editing by Sudip Kar-Gupta)
Heres what youll learn when you read this story:

Underwater archaeologists exploring a lake in Kyrgyzstan found a lost city.

The waters of Lake Issyk-Kul have hidden an important Silk Road city since the beginning of the 15 th century.

Experts believe an earthquake redistributed the lake waters and submerged the city.

Underwater archaeologists diving in one of the worlds deepest lakes think theyve found something remarkable. They believe Lake Issyk-Kul has hidden the secrets of a prominent medieval Silk Road trading city since a massive earthquake in the 15th century.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The lake, located in modern-day Kyrgyzstan, likely took over the ancient Toru-Aygyr city after an earthquake changed the local landscape. An international team of divers recently found several traces of the city which indicate links to both a Turkic dynasty and Islamic rule.

Diving down to a maximum of 13 feet deep into the lake, the team discovered buildings made of brick, the remains of a stone millstone likely used for grinding grain into flour, and a Muslim burial ground, as well as remains of additional wooden structures and plenty of ceramic artifacts.

The monument under study is a city or a large commercial agglomeration on one of the important sections of the Silk Road, Valery Kolchenko, a researcher at the Institute of History, Archaeology, and Ethnology of the National Academy of Sciences and head of the host countrys underwater expedition, said in a statement from the Russian Geographical Society.

The finds help solidify Toru-Aygyr as an important stop on the Silk Road, Maksim Menshikov, head of the expedition with the Institute of Archaeology of the RAS, said in a statement. The Silk Road, a trading route connecting China with the West, was first established in the first century B.C.E. and flourished until around the 15th century.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The key finds which further illustrate Toru-Aygyr's importance include the remains of a prominent building and a Muslim burial ground. The expedition reported that the architecture discovered indicated a community was once there, including a large community building with external decoration that could have been a mosque, bathhouse, or even a small Islamic university. Remains of structures made of stone and wooden beams are still underwater at the site. Nearby, the team found a 13th or 14th-century Muslim necropolis, actively eroding due to the water. The remains of two bodies there were turned to face Mecca, typical for Muslim burial practices.

The researchers said that at the beginning of the 15th century, an earthquake submerged the city beneath the water. Kolchenko said they believe the residents may have already left the settlement at that time, but the earthquake further shifted the regions population drastically. The rich medieval settlement civilization ceased to exist, they suggest, and nomads took their place.

The findings, which also included an older burial site next to rounded and rectangular structures, along with a wealth of medieval artifacts, including ceramics and a wholly intact vessel, showed the transition between the Turkic dynasty rule of the Karakhanids to Islam under the Mongol states Golden Horde.

Menshikov believes that around the 10th century the Karakhanid state formed in the area, a Turkic dynasty with a variety of religions. The ruling elite turned to Islam, though, which became more widespread in Central Asia in the 13th century.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The section of the Silk Road in the Issyk-Kul Lake area was under control of the Karakhanids, Menshikov said. The Chinese considered this territory a zone of their interests, but they could not control it. Nevertheless, we see that this location is reflected in Chinese sources. This gives us hope to correlate historical materials with the results of our archaeological excavations.

You Might Also Like
A Maryland man pleaded guilty to dumping 110 gallons of what he said was cooking oil, which ended up flowing into a state waterway, according to Maryland's WJLA.

A concerned witness saw the man dumping the oil from a truck at the dead end of a street. The Attorney General's Environmental and Natural Resources Crimes Unit (ENRCU) investigated the allegation. The unit's website states that it handles "dangerous accumulation, storage or disposal of hazardous waste."

The Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission found the man was not licensed as a waste hauler and did not have a permit.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There are significantly more responsible ways to dispose of cooking oil, especially in such large amounts.

The website Mahoney Environmental said that making sure it gets recycled is the smartest move. "Used cooking oil can also be filtered and processed into renewable fuel which burns cleaner than regular diesel fuel. It is also common for used cooking oil to be used in sustainable aviation fuel. It is also common for used cooking oil to be used in animal feed," it said.

When people are called out for irresponsible behavior, whether it's dumping building materials incorrectly or polluting waterways with "forever chemicals," people learn that their disregard for both the community and the ecosystem has consequences.

Not only can illegal dumping create an eyesore, it can, as in this case, pollute waterways, causing damage to local species, and it can even become a fire hazard.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

And it's a bigger problem than many realize. Dumpsters.com states that, "Americans alone are estimated to illegally dump almost 1.5 million tons of trash each year." So it's important for people to take a stand, like this vigilant Maryland community member did.

Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown said, "My Office will always hold accountable those who pollute Maryland's waters and threaten Marylanders' health," according to WJLA.



Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices  and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club.
The Bay Area Afghan community is condemning the shooting of two national guard troops in Washington, D.C, allegedly by an Afghan national. But they are also raising concerns that their entire community is being demonized and held accountable in the aftermath of the shooting.

On social media, the U.S. government announced: "Effective immediately, processing of all immigration requests relating to Afghan nationals is stopped indefinitely pending further review of security and vetting protocols."

Effective immediately, processing of all immigration requests relating to Afghan nationals is stopped indefinitely pending further review of security and vetting protocols.



The protection and safety of our homeland and of the American people remains our singular focus and  USCIS (@USCIS) November 27, 2025

That comes after two national guards were shot, allegedly by Afghan national, who was in the United States legally.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"What we are now seeing is deeply concerning. Collective punishment based on identity or nationality," says Harris Mojadedi, a long-time Afghan community activist in Bay Area. "It is xenophobia. It is racism. It is very discriminatory. And it is in a pattern we have seen with (the Trump) administration."

RELATED: Trump vows to 'permanently pause' migration from some countries after DC attack

Mojadedi condemns the shooting. But he says the backlash in cities like Fremont, home to one of the largest Afghan communities in the country, is already being felt.

"I am talking to family and friends who are worried to go to (an Afghan) grocery store. They are worried to go to the mosque. They are concerned they may be rounded up," says Mojadedi.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Fremont's Afghan community has been a target before. In May, Afghans here legally on humanitarian parolee visas, received a letter from the Department of Homeland Security, telling them to go back. Earlier this month, Fremont officials confirmed ICE agents did door knocks in a predominately Afghan neighborhood.

But Professor Nolan Higdon, a political analyst at UC Santa Cruz, says what the Trump administration is now doing is new.

"Historically, when someone has committed a crime or been accused of it, people who share that identity have also been demonized in the court of public opinion," Professor Higdon said. "But to raise it to the level of actual stopping people coming to the country, of people of that identity, that is a new escalation in terms of American history."

That escalation is what has many concerned.

RELATED: Alleged Washington, DC shooter to be charged with first-degree murder, Pirro says

The Bay Area-based Project ANAR, which provides Afghan-Americans with legal services issued a statement, saying:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Refugees wait years for the opportunity to resettle in the U.S., often after being left with no choice but to flee their homes because of conditions caused in part by U.S. foreign policy. This memorandum undermines the refugee program by wasting resources on re-screening those who have already gone through the highest level of vetting to prove their needs for protection."

"I am very proud to be an American, but I also want to flag the fact that Afghans have been living in the United States, very proudly and peacefully, for over four to five decades," says California State Senator, Dr. Aisha Wahab, whose district includes parts of Fremont. "And I will hold every elected official accountable for how this is going to be utilized to harm all people that are literally seeing safety and justice and freedom, and the American ideals. And harming them, and exploiting what is happening today, just for their political gain."

Senator Wahab is one of the highest ranking Afghan-Americans in public office.

Professor Higdon concludes by saying, "This individual, who is the accused attacker, supposedly came here after President Joe Biden pulled the troops out of Afghanistan. It is also something that Trump Administration and MAGA would like to tie to the Biden administration. Particularly their narrative that Biden let anybody in across the border. So, I think politically speaking, is a very easy lay-up for the Trump Administration."

If you're on the ABC7 News app, click here to watch live




Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever has set a final condition for making frozen Russian state assets available to Ukraine as a reparations loan, while warning of a hasty decision.

Other EU countries would have to provide legally binding and unconditional guarantees covering the entire sum of the loan before he would be ready to agree to the measure, De Wever wrote to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in a letter seen by dpa on Friday.

Von der Leyen, alongside German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, has been pushing to make up to 140 billion ($162 billion) in Russian central bank assets available to Ukraine to cover the country's financial needs in the coming years.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Belgium, where most of the assets are held, has blocked the initiative so far. EU leaders will revert to the issue at an upcoming summit in December.

In his letter, De Wever also reiterates several legal and financial concerns, including risks to the stability of the euro and the costs of potentially successful arbitration by Russia in court.

Rather than using Russia's assets, the Belgian premier urges the EU to raise money on the capital markets to cover Ukraine's financial needs of 45 billion in 2026.

This would be less risky and ultimately cheaper, De Wever argues.

In the letter, De Wever also warns that a hasty decision on the reparations loan could undermine ongoing US-led efforts to end Russia's war in Ukraine.

He argues that Russia's assets frozen under EU sanctions will play a central role in the negotiations and "will have to be made fully available."
Charges against the man accused of shooting two National Guard members near the White House have been upgraded to first-degree murder after one of the soldiers died, according to the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia.

Federal officials said Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, were critically injured during a shooting Wednesday afternoon while deployed in Washington, D.C., as part of President Donald Trumps federal mission that placed National Guard members on the streets and federalized the Metropolitan Police Department.

Trump announced late Thursday that Beckstrom had died.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirros office said charges against Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, now include one count of first-degree murder, two counts of assault with intent to kill while armed, and three firearm charges related to a violent crime.

In an interview on Fox News, Pirro said many charges are expected in addition to the upgraded murder charge.

Pirro emphasized investigators have been working continuously to determine a motive.

She said teams are executing warrants in Washington statewhere Lakanwal lived in Bellinghamand in other regions of the country.

She described Beckstrom as someone who volunteered to serve and ended up being shot ambush-style on the cold streets of Washington, D.C.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey said Wolfe remains in very critical condition.

Morrisey ordered flags to half-staff Friday in honor of Beckstrom, describing the Guardsmen as two West Virginia heroes who were serving the country when they were attacked.

President Trump called the shooting a terrorist attack and connected it to Afghan resettlement programs.

He again criticized the Biden administration for allowing Afghans who assisted U.S. forces during the Afghanistan War to enter the country.

Trump has repeatedly said he wants to pause migration from poorer nations and remove millions of immigrants already in the U.S.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Wednesday night, Trump called for all Afghan refugees admitted under Operation Allies Welcome to be reinvestigated.

Officials said Lakanwal entered the U.S. in 2021 through the Biden administrations Operation Allies Welcome evacuation and resettlement program, created after the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.

According to the advocacy group #AfghanEvac, Lakanwal applied for asylum under the Biden administration, but his asylum was ultimately approved after Trump took office.

Lakanwal had been living in Bellingham, with his wife and five children.

His former landlord, Kristina Widman, confirmed he had been renting from her, and neighbors described him as quiet.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A neighbor, Mohammad Sherzad, told the Associated Press that Lakanwal attended the same mosque and spoke limited English.

Sherzad said several of Lakanwals children attended school with his and that community members had heard Lakanwal was having difficulty finding work.

He said Lakanwal disappeared from the neighborhood about two weeks ago.

People familiar with his past in Afghanistan said Lakanwal served in a CIA-backed military unit known as the Zero Units, which operated in frontline missions during the war.

An individual identifying himself as Lakanwals cousin told the APon condition of anonymity due to safety concernsthat Lakanwal joined the unit in 2012 as a security guard and was later promoted to team leader and GPS specialist.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A former unit official confirmed his brother was also a platoon leader.

Zero Units played a major role during the U.S. withdrawal, securing Kabul International Airport as evacuations unfolded.

Human rights groups previously linked the units to allegations of abuses, though many members also faced retaliation threats from the Taliban after the collapse of the Afghan government.

The West Virginia National Guard said Beckstrom enlisted in 2023, the same year she graduated high school.

She served as a military police officer with the 863rd Military Police Company and volunteered for the security mission in Washington.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She exemplified leadership, dedication, and professionalism, the Guard said in a statement, adding that she joined Operation D.C. Safe and Beautiful to help protect the nations capital.

Trump described Beckstrom as an incredible person, outstanding in every single way.

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services director, Joseph Edlow, said the agency plans to conduct additional screening of people from 19 high-risk countries.

He did not list the countries but referenced national security restrictions implemented earlier this year that limited travel from 12 nations and imposed tighter rules on seven others.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Advocates of Operation Allies Welcome have maintained that extensive vetting already exists and the program saved lives of Afghans targeted for assisting the U.S. military.

As of Friday, investigators have not publicly identified a motive in the shooting.
Several Bellingham residents were woken up by around a dozen federal agents raiding an apartment building in their complex, which they say belongs to the man accused of shooting two National Guard members in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday.

Its like less than 50 feet away from my apartment, so it kind of scares me, said Bill Beveridge, who said he woke up to a boom before 3 a.m.

Rachel Haycox took a picture of the officers surrounding the door and yelling, FBI!

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They sent a drone in and then a robot, Haycox said, They were going in and out of the apartment until like 5 a.m.

The apartment belongs to Rahmanullah Lakanwal. Lakanwal, who immigrated from Afghanistan in 2021, is accused of shooting the two servicemembers.

Witnesses told KIRO 7 that several adults and children were taken into custody.

Neighbor Steven Reece says eight or nine people were taken out of the apartment.

Whoever answered the door was snatched out and slammed against the wall, Reece said.

Neighbors say Lakanwal, his wife, five kids, and at least one other adult lived in the apartment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

My son goes to school with them, and theyre nice kids, Haycox said.

Beveridge said the kids would often play on the balconies.

There were constant people in and out all the time, he said.

Bellingham Police Chief Rebecca Mertzig said she reached out to the FBIs Seattle office upon learning of the suspects residence in her city.

People who serve and protect our communities, like the two wounded West Virginia National Guard members, represent the best of what we strive for, and we honor their service, sacrifice, and courage, Mertzig said in a statement.
(Reuters) -Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Friday that the U.S. Treasury was working to cut off federal benefits to "illegal aliens" at President Donald Trump's direction and preserve them for U.S. citizens.

Treasury "announced that it will issue proposed regulations clarifying that the refunded portions of certain individual income tax benefits are no longer available to illegal and other non-qualified aliens, covering the Earned Income Tax Credit, the Additional Child Tax Credit, the American Opportunity Tax Credit, and the Savers Match Credit," Bessent said on X.

(Reporting by Bhargav Acharya in Toronto; editing by Christian Martinez)
Justice Sonia Sotomayor suggested the Trump administration was asking the Supreme Court to completely upend the U.S. government in a remarkable exchange. The countrys highest court was hearing oral arguments in the case of Trump v. Slaughter when she made the observation. Youre asking us to destroy the structure of government and to take away from Congress its ability to protect its idea that the government is better structured with some agencies that are independent, Sotomayor said.
HANGZHOU, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Three newly-developed Chinese chips were unveiled Thursday at the Spatial Computing Summit 2025 held in Ningbo, east China's Zhejiang Province, marking a significant step forward in terms of the country's advancement in spatial computing.

Spatial computing refers to technologies that utilize spatial data and algorithms to process and analyze information in three-dimensional environments. It enables users to better "explore the world" through extended reality (XR) devices, robots, smart vehicles, virtual assistants and more.

Cui Ping, director of Yongjiang Laboratory, said the core of this technology lies in empowering digital systems to "understand space." Through three key functions, namely environmental perception, virtual-real integration and natural interaction -- information breaks free from the constraints of small screens.

"It seamlessly integrates with real-world environments, surrounding us like air throughout physical space," she explained.

According to the developer, GravityXR Electronics and Technology Co. Ltd. (GravityXR), the flagship G-X100 chip is a high-performance processor for mixed reality (MR) devices. Its key breakthrough lies in ultra-low latency -- which enables extremely fast response times. This capability is critical for mitigating the motion sickness that has long affected XR users.

The G-VX100, meanwhile, distinguishes itself via its compact form factor. Small enough to be embedded into the frames of everyday eyeglasses, it paves the way for lighter and more compact AI glasses and similar wearable devices, the company said.

The G-EB100 chip specializes in rendering and display. In addition to enhancing MR visual performance, it can also be applied in robotics -- for instance, enabling robots to display highly expressive facial animations with realistic expressions and eye movements, the company added.

The summit in Ningbo was hosted by the China Mobile Communications Association and co-organized by Yongjiang Laboratory and GravityXR.

Experts at the event noted that with continuous advancements in core technologies -- China's spatial computing industry is poised for rapid growth in the coming years. 
A council in the Republic of Ireland is seeking information following the "callous" beheading of a stag.

Fingal County Council has issued an appeal for information after the headless body of the stag, that was part of a herd at Newbridge Demesne, Donabate in County Dublin, was found by staff on Thursday.

The stag's head was removed from the grounds and staff say they have no doubt it was taken as a trophy, Irish broadcaster RTE is reporting.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Gardai (Irish police) confirmed they are investigating a reported incident of wildlife crime.

"It had been killed overnight [on Wednesday] by intruders who had broken into the park. The discovery was made when staff went to feed the herd of Irish Red Deer," Fingal County Council said in a statement.

The stag, who was eight years old, was one of two in the herd.

The killing of the stag is also under investigation by the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

'He was a big favourite with the public'

The Mayor of Fingal, councillor Tom O'Leary, condemned the killing.

He said: "I have visited this park area with my granddaughters who really enjoyed meeting the stag and deer. A wonderful animal to behold close up.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"It's truly shocking that someone would carry out this act," he said.

"I am appealing to anybody with information to contact the gardai or the National Parks and Wildlife Service. It is illegal to kill deer without a licence and I hope that the perpetrators can be brought to justice."

Ivan Smith, foreman of Works at Newbridge House and Traditional Farm, said the team was "absolutely shocked" by the incident.

"He was a lovely stag with a beautiful pair of antlers and was a big favourite with the public who walk through the park."

'Unnecessary killing'

Ireland's National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA) have expressed "horror" at the attack.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"The unnecessary killing of such a majestic creature for, what appears to be, a trophy is appalling," Pat Watt of the NSPCA said.

"It is the NSPCA's hopes that the perpetrator/s will be caught and prosecuted with the full force of the legal system relating to this type of crime. Animal abuse is not acceptable in any situations."

'Disgusted and appalled'

Councillor for the area Eoghan Dockrell told BBC News NI that he was "in shock".

"The one common response to anyone I've spoken to in the community is they're disgusted and appalled," he said.

He added that he has "an awful lot of sympathy for the staff members who would have had to come upon that scene and how distressing that must have been".

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I have been in touch with council officials to see if they'd review security procedures in the park and while a lot of patrols are being carried out during the day, we're going to see if we can increase patrols at night time," he said.

Anyone who has any information should report it to National Parks and Wildlife Service, Fingal County Council or their local Garda Station.

Gardai (Irish police) also said they wish to speak with anyone who has footage, including dashcam, from between 00:00 and 02:30 local time on Thursday on the R126 road, Cobbe's Lane and Turvey Avenue, around Newbridge Demense, to make it available.
A former senior management analyst for Camarillo requested dismissal of his lawsuit against the city last month after receiving a $175,000 settlement, according to legal documents.

John Frasers November 2022 lawsuit accused Assistant City Manager Carmen Nichols of discriminating against him because of his age and then retaliating against him for reporting and resisting the discrimination.

The city of Camarillo declined to comment on the settlement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Although the agreement states that the payment does not translate to an admission of liability, Frasers attorney, Lanny Tron, said it sends a powerful message.

John stood up, spoke out and got everyone to be aware of the fact that something is just not right at city hall, Tron said. He showed everyone in city hall that you cant bully people because youre going to pay a consequence.

Camarillo City Hall

The allegations

In early 2020, when Nichols became assistant city manager and Frasers direct supervisor, he had worked for the city for 20 years and reported to seven other assistant city managers without any conflicts.

At 59 years old, he was the oldest employee in his division. He worked in economic development, emergency operations and public information.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In spite of his experience, Fraser claims, Nichols reassigned his major responsibilities to younger employees, canceled scheduled meetings with him and failed to seek his input on projects.

In a performance review, Nichols described Fraser as slow and unable to adapt, repeatedly referencing his many years of service and claiming that his longevity was a challenge, according to the 19-page complaint.

Fraser objected to the review, reporting the age discrimination to the citys human resources director, who failed to investigate his complaints, the suit states.

On Sept. 10, 2021, Nichols filed a recommendation for Frasers demotion to the role of management assistant with a reduced salary, Fraser said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When he opposed the recommendation and the human resources director again failed to investigate, he shared his concerns with council members Charlotte Craven and Tony Trembley, according to the legal document. He also filed an age discrimination complaint with the California State Department of Fair Employment and Housing, now the State of California Civil Rights Department.

City Manager Greg Ramirez scolded Fraser for contacting the council members, and on Sept. 21, 2021, Nichols informed Fraser that his demotion would be effective in one week, the lawsuit states.

Fraser said he decided he would retire Sept. 24, 2021, but when he showed up to work the day before, he discovered he had been locked out of the office.

The settlement

He and the city reached a settlement July 31, ahead of a trial set for early August.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Fraser said he initiated the settlement discussions.

After three years in court, I think you eventually get frustrated, he said. It was time to move on.

Peter Castles, the citys community relations officer, wrote in an email that he could not comment on personnel or litigation matters. He did not answer a question about whether the city plans to implement new protocols following the settlement.

The city remains committed to maintaining a respectful, inclusive and professional workplace for all employees, he wrote. The city maintains strong policies and training in full compliance with state and federal employment laws.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Tron said Frasers case was compelling. Rather than allowing him to conclude his career by passing his insight and experience on to the other employees, they pushed him out the door, Tron said.

It was reprehensible, the attorney said.  We owe it to people like John and others with experience at city hall to guide the city and not cut them loose.

Tron also represents Roger Pichardo, another former city analyst who sued Camarillo for age discrimination and retaliation in October 2023. A hearing for that case is set for Jan. 29.

Fraser said most painful was the lack of response by the elected officials who knew his character and work ethic. He hopes his legal battle inspires the current council members to truly consider employee concerns.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If you really care about employees like you say, I think it behooves you to go deeper than walk away from an employee youve known for 20 years, he said.

The Camarillo resident also said he hopes the citys new HR director, hired in March, promptly and thoroughly investigates future employee concerns.

The city functions best when its employees know they are going to be heard, Fraser said.

Makena Huey is an investigative and watchdog reporter for the Ventura County Star. Reach her at makena.huey@vcstar.com. This story was made possible by a grant from the Ventura County Community Foundation's Fund to Support Local Journalism.

This article originally appeared on Ventura County Star: Camarillo retiree receives $175,000 in age discrimination deal
Central Florida is stepping up to meet the heightened needs of hungry families.

This month, Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida reported a 300 percent increase in people using their food finder tool.

The organization said ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday that demand has remained sky high.

Channel 9 showed you the wrap around lines at food giveaways earlier this month.

It was just one consequence of a 43-day government shutdown during which about 3 million Floridians temporarily lost SNAP benefits that paid for their groceries.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Just because the government started back up and SNAP is flowing again, doesnt mean that everybody is right back to where they were beforehand, said Greg Higgerson, the Chief Development Officer at Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida.

Higgerson said Central Florida was already experiencing its highest level of food insecurity in over a decade, but the need was amplified during the shutdown as federal workers went without pay and SNAP was suspended.

During that time, a lot of people, I am sure, put things on credit cards or made decisions about where their money had to go when they werent getting paid, and so on. And that has a lag effect , said Higgerson.

Higgerson said the organization is still seeing people struggling to recover from the disruption to SNAP. It is still providing enough food for approximately 330,000 meals a day.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On November 18th, Orange County government approved an extra $1 million in funding to help to the food bank meet that heightened demand and local businesses are stepping up too.

Multiple businesses within Harmon Collective, a conglomerate of companies located in the former Lombardis Seafood building in Winter Park, are now participating in a food drive that runs through December 15th.

That includes All Inclusive CrossFit, a local gym that is leading the food drive. Our hope is that we can show each individual that their small acts can come together to make a big difference, said Clarissa Detzel, owner of All Inclusive Cross Fit.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
For weeks, Chicago has been at the center of the Trump administrations brutal immigration crackdown. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Department of Homeland Security officials have arrested 800 people as of 1 October, while also using violent tactics such as body-slamming and deploying teargas in residential areas.

Amid the raids and arrests, which have created a pervasive sense of fear, faith leaders have stepped up, putting themselves on the front lines of resistance.

Faith leaders bring a very powerful prophetic and moral compass into the space, said the Rev Ciera Bates-Chamberlain, executive director of Live Free Illinois, a group that mobilizes Black churches around social justice issues in Chicago. While many others may be able to argue the economic impact, or argue the law, faith leaders are typically the ones who are arguing and standing on the side of humanity and for people.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

One of clergys most visible actions has been holding regular Friday gatherings, where dozens of people from various faith communities rally outside the Broadview processing facility, where ICE holds people slated for deportation.

Rev David Black of the First Presbyterian church of Chicago says that sometimes faith leaders show up and pray for those detained. Other times, they use non-violent tactics to attempt to block vans from leaving the facility to go out and detain immigrants or from bringing them back to the processing facility.

Black was shot in the head with pepper balls while he was praying outside the facility. Others have been arrested there.

Faith leaders have publicly pleaded with ICE and DHS to let them access the people inside so they can provide spiritual comfort and religious rituals, including delivering communion to detained immigrants. But the DHS has prevented them from doing so. In response, church leaders have sued the Trump administration for violating their first amendment rights.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Chicago religious leaders have also built an interfaith coalition called Faith over Fear to train clergy members as rapid responders to raids, and to ensure churches remain sanctuaries for immigrants. (Earlier this year, the Trump administration overturned previous policy so that immigration enforcement can make arrests in churches.) Faith communities have become sites for organizing, food distribution, Know Your Rights trainings, as well as places of sanctuary for Chicagoans of all backgrounds who oppose the federal governments presence in the city.

The Guardian spoke to four Chicago faith leaders about the work they and their communities have been doing to support immigrants in their city  and why its so critical for them to do so.

Rev David Black, First Presbyterian church of Chicago

As atrocious and nightmarish as this time has been and continues to be, theres an enormous amount of good that is coming out of people learning to organize and take responsibility for our society. People are not waiting for our government to come save us. People are keeping each other safe and organizing in networks of really deep and rich solidarity with the understanding that we cannot be well as a society unless every person among us is free and safe.

The thing about these churches all across America is that theyre in the middle of communities, and many of them are experiencing declining membership and trying to figure out how to stay relevant, what to do with these resources in this space. This has been a moment of awakening for a lot of faith communities that were surrounded by people who need space to organize, to host know your rights training, to just get together and form community. And people are making their churches available.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its not just the clergy, its the congregations of these churches that are opening themselves with radical hospitality to meet the moment with all the resources they have to bear. The clergy are sometimes the ones who are recognizable in the photos, but theyre held up by congregations that are being so faithful and loving in this moment.

I think peoples faith, especially Christian peoples faith, is coming alive in this moment. Were seeing that the Bible is not about some remote time. It echoes all the time, and it really is making people understand where the lines are and which side Jesus is on. Weve seen a lot of people wake up to that.

Rami Nashashibi, Inner-City Muslim Action Network

We are certainly in an unprecedented moment. We are confronting masked agents in unmarked cars, smashing windows and pulling people out of vehicles in front of their children. Theres a feeling of military occupation and a fear not only of arrest, abduction or being targeted - but also the fear of being isolated.

Weve been even more explicit by saying, especially to faith communities, that we have a distinct role in this moment: not to be silent, not to be sequestered in our sanctuaries, not to be isolated, but to come together and lean into one another by leaning deeper into our traditions and building power together. We need to build the type of power that can respond to the fascist interventions we see in our cities. But more importantly, we need to lean into the vision of a beloved community.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We were coming together on the recognition that it is not just immigrant communities. There have been Black communities on the South Side that have [been victims of intense violence]. There are American citizens that have been confronted by ICE. Faith communities have been trying to make sure that our communities dont conflate this as simply an immigrant issue.

I think this is a moment where we need to confront evil, and were doing it by not just the faithful Fridays coming together and praying together. Every week we are on a larger network of calls. Were informing each other about the types of actions, responses, and needs that our respective communities have. Were supporting one another when it comes to providing, expanding our food distributions, our shelters that many of us are running.

Although still new in its formation, Faith over Fear has been sustaining our connection to one another. Its because we all realize that we are in it for the long haul, and we understand that this is not about just next month or next year. This is about sustaining a movement that can build a different future.

Janie Pochel, Chi-Nations Youth Council

I would go to Broadview for Friday gatherings, sometimes by myself, sometimes with my partner, or with some folks in the community. We brought our pipes with us, to smoke out there and pray for the people inside. A couple weeks ago, there was a formal gathering where they gave us room to smudge [a sacred practice that involves burning bundles of sage to bless a place or person] and say a few words.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its important that we were there to witness some of the brutality [against protesters] and also for the people on the inside - for them to know that theres people here that care, even if we dont know them. We feel some sort of relationship with them, especially as Indigenous people. We know a lot of these folks that are getting kidnapped are Indigenous as well.

Its important that people see that were able to do this in the open, freely, or without fear of being oppressed. Not even a decade before I was born, it was illegal to do a lot of these things; you werent allowed to smudge, you werent allowed to openly pray. Then in the 1970s [things changed], but a lot of our old people never got to practice our culture or spirituality openly.

Were all in this together and all forms of prayer [at Broadview], which is powerful. Even if people think that theres a lot of differences in the way that we pray, or in our spirituality, most of it is the same at the core of it. It does feel like were part of a community of spirituality, of prayer. There are a lot of Catholic people there  and even though the history of the Catholic church to Indigenous people is not a good history, these people were acknowledging that history without trying to cover it up or try to downplay it.

Rev Ciera Bates-Chamberlain, Live Free Illinois

When the Faith Over Fear campaign began to form, we wanted to make sure that we were responding to what was happening and letting the administration know that we did not want the national guard or ICE here. We pulled together so that we could have a stronger base and a stronger multi-faith coalition.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We are lifting up our voices to ensure that all people are treated humanely. And that is the most powerful thing that the faith voice can bring to the table. Black churches have always been on the front lines and fighting and advocating for justice and for whats right.

Live Free Illinois has partners that distribute food in immigrant communities, and we also have partners who have large-scale food distribution in Black communities.

I have been trying to make sure that we get the message and the education out around whats happening in this moment and how we have to fight back against the militarization of our community.

Were seeing a shift in how people respond. Initially, the [Trump] administration had messaging going out that the Venezuelans and Mexicans are coming over, and theyre stealing your job, theyre creating violence and havoc and chaos in the communities.

It was a divisive message that some people were playing into. Since then, Ive seen organizations across the country fighting and pushing back on that narrative. You do see the difference in how people are talking about it now. People do understand when we say, Were fighting against the militarization of our community, that the military is not what we need.
Sendai-ko Biomass Power GK has started commercial operations at the Sendai Port power plant, marking a major development for biomass power plant operations in Japan.

Located in Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture, the plant is operated by the company, a joint venture funded by Sumitomo Corporation, Tokyo Gas, Hokuriku Electric Power Company, and Sumitomo Corporation Tohoku.

The facility, with an output of 112MW, ranks as one of largest dedicated biomass power plants in the country.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The plant is projected to generate about 800,000MWh of electricity annually, which will be enough to power approximately 260,000 households each year.

This capacity will help provide a stable, long-term supply of renewable energy to the Tohoku region, supporting Japans efforts towards achieving carbon neutrality.

The plant utilises wood-based biomass fuels, including pellets and chips sourced from thinning timber, mill residues, and lower-grade wood produced during forest management.

All these biomass fuels are procured from forests certified by recognised forest certification programmes.

Specifically, Sumitomo Corporation manages fuel procurement, ensuring the proper use of forest resources and maintaining full traceability throughout the supply chain.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As part of its own climate strategy, Sumitomo Corporation is targeting to achieve carbon neutrality across all group business activities by 2050.

As of the end of March 2025, the companys equity share of renewable power generation capacity reached roughly 2GW.

Guided by its management vision, 'Compass 2030', the Tokyo Gas Group has committed to pursue net zero.

In July this year, Sumitomo Corporation signed a memorandum of understanding with the UK, pledging to invest 7.5bn ($10bn) in the countrys infrastructure and renewable energy projects by 2035.

"Commercial operations begin at Sendai Port biomass power plant in Japan" was originally created and published by Energy Monitor, a GlobalData owned brand.




Becky Fast has led the Kansas chapter of the National Association of Social Workers since 2017, often testifying at the state legislature as she did here last week before the Joint Committee on Child Welfare System Oversight. She lost her job in a restructure done by the national organization. (Screen capture of Child Welfare System Oversight Committee)

TOPEKA  A national organization supporting social workers restructured, stripping Kansas of its local executive director and leaving a long-time system advocate without a job.

Becky Fast, who has led the Kansas chapter of the National Association of Social Workers since 2017, was let go from her position when NASW announced internally two weeks ago that it was combining 14 state chapters into pairs that would be overseen by one director.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kansas now is paired with Iowa, said LaToya Evans, NASW spokeswoman.

Fast was stunned by the decision to restructure the NASWs entire system and said it was not discussed or voted on by member states or representatives. The decision was made at the executive committee level.

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) is undergoing a national, internal realignment to strengthen operational efficiency and support for social workers, Evans said in an email. As costs within nonprofit organizations continue to increase, it has become necessary to continue transitioning to a dual-chapter executive director model in states that have fewer members or were supported by part-time employees.

Fast, who is also a Johnson County commissioner, worked 30 hours per week as executive director, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Organization dues in Kansas pay for the local chapter costs, including her salary, so financial considerations are not the full reason for the restructuring, Fast said. In a letter announcing the new structure, the national board said appropriate steps were taken to ensure that we adhered to our financial, legal, and ethical duties.

Evans said Kansas and Iowa will each maintain a leadership council and chapter identities. The new model has been tested in some states, providing full-time employee support between neighboring chapters and maintaining local engagement and collaboration, she said.

Across the country, social workers and state NASW leaders took to social media to complain about the decision. In some states, including Arkansas and Kentucky, entire boards running state chapters resigned at once in disagreement with the national associations decisions.

The Kansas NASW chapter board wrote a letter expressing its anger at how the restructuring decisions were made, citing the lack of clear communication, one of the bedrock principles of social work, as leaving board members and volunteers confused and frustrated.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As the Kansas Chapter President, I have not been informed about the rationale, process, or decision-making steps leading to the elimination of our Kansas Director, Kansas board president Tonya Ricklefs wrote in a letter signed by all board members.

The letter listed accomplishments Fast made as a state leader, including moving the organization out of a financial deficit and organizing one of the largest advocacy day efforts in the NASW organization. On social media, one upset Kansan pointed to Fasts recent testimony in front of a Kansas legislative committee addressing questions about workforce issues.

Frustrations have arisen from the lack of communication about realignment plans, no publication of approval of major changes, lack of opportunity for board and executive director input, and lack of understanding of how this cost savings will be allocated and how NASW will be structured to support our local advocacy efforts, Ricklefs letter said.

Fast, the Kansas board of directors and others worry that eliminating the local chapter will weaken statewide advocacy efforts, particularly at a time when social workers are needed to support many industries.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Im not only sad that Ive lost my job, Fast said. Im sad for the social work community, the social workers, because its taken me years to build up (legislative) relationships.

The lack of direct Kansas leadership raised such concerns that advocates have called a virtual meeting on Dec. 6 to discuss whether there is a way to create a new Kansas social work organizational structure with the first priority being legislative advocacy, one Facebook post said.

Fast said shes worked with numerous Kansas legislators to educate them about social work, and the result is relationships built on trust so that government officials will call and ask for presentations and information.

The power of relationships was brought home to Fast recently when she filled in for her Oklahoma counterpart who was on sick leave. As she tried to work through issues, Fast said, she struggled with who to contact and even finding social workers in the state willing to testify. In Kansas, she has helped social workers become confident and willing to share their stories.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Fast said each states licensing laws are different and its important that the person speaking for Kansas social workers understands the nuances of the laws, particularly in a time when the Trump administration has proposed removing social workers from a list of professional degrees.

Melinda Lewis, a University of Kansas professor and director of the Center for Community Engagement and Collaboration, said the loss of someone with Fasts knowledge of Kansas-specific challenges is significant.

I do think the Kansas chapter of NASW with Beckys leadership has made great strides in helping policymakers  not just legislators but state agencies and local leaders who pay attention to whats happening in the Legislature  understand what social work does for Kansans, Lewis said.

We are in a different and a much more promising place now than we were several years ago, and (Kansas NASW) and Becky Fast arent the sole reason those advances have been made but they have been significant in it, she added.
A telescope in Chile has captured a stunning new picture of a grand and graceful cosmic butterfly.

The National Science Foundation's NoirLab released the picture on Wednesday. The glowing "wings" appear to be bursting in the image. While the bipolar nebula goes by the monikers Butterfly Nebula, Bug Nebula or Caldwell 69, its official name is NGC 6302.

This image provided by NSF NOIRLab shows NGC 6302, a billowing planetary nebula that resembles a cosmic butterfly. / Credit: NSF NOIRLab via AP

Snapped last month by the Gemini South telescope  half of the International Gemini Observatory on Cerro Pachon, a mountain in Central Chile  the aptly named Butterfly Nebula is 2,500 to 3,800 light-years away in the constellation Scorpius. A single light-year is 6 trillion miles.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At the heart of this bipolar nebula is a white dwarf star that cast aside its outer layers of gas long ago. The discarded gas forms the butterfly-like wings billowing from the aging star, whose heat causes the gas to glow.

Students in Chile chose this astronomical target to celebrate 25 years of operation by the International Gemini Observatory.

"This picturesque object was chosen as a target for the 8.1-meter [26.5-foot] telescope by students in Chile as part of the Gemini First Light Anniversary Image Contest," NoirLab wrote on its website. "The contest engaged students in the host locations of the Gemini telescopes to celebrate the legacy that the International Gemini Observatory has built since its completion, marked by Gemini South's First Light in November 2000."

It's not known exactly when NGC 6302 was discovered, NoirLab says, but a 1907 study by American astronomer Edward E. Barnard is often credited. Scottish astronomer James Dunlop could also have discovered it in 1826.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump threatens major immigration overhauls after National Guard shooting

National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom dies after D.C. attack, officials say

Young mom murdered after receiving menacing messages from stalker
The Community House Association  a nonprofit in Birmingham facing public scrutiny after it announced earlier this month it wants to sell the 38,500-square-foot house that gave it its name  is under pressure from the city, which turned to the courts.

City commissioners  who are set to meet on Monday, Dec. 1  have had two closed-door conversations about the city's role in the the growing conflict and whether the city should offer to buy the building.

Mayor Clinton Baller on Wednesday, Nov. 26, emailed a statement to the Free Press that said the city "has taken legal action to protect the long-standing deed restrictions governing the Community House property."

The Community House in Birmingham at 380 S. Bates St.

The city added that it has requested the Oakland Circuit Court "immediately halt any attempted sale" to a private buyer and "preserve the property for the community that has supported and relied on it for decades."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The nonprofit  through the public relations firm representing it  responded to questions from the Free Press on Wednesday, Nov. 26, that it had "no additional information" to share.

The nonprofit, which spoke with the Free Press last week, has scheduled three public meetings for next month at the house to explain and discuss its plans to sell the house, which, it seems to be set on.

And in a 40-minute interview, association board President Camille Jayne and President Alison Gaudreau told the Free Press they are aware of the deed restrictions, but declined to speculate on actions the city might take.

Could Birmingham buy the house?

In the past few weeks, Birmingham officials and residents with long ties to the nearly century-old house have expressed concern about what will happen to the house, including whether it can be torn down.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

One city commissioner, Brad Host, suggested that perhaps the city should buy it.

A day before Baller sent the city's statement to the Free Press, Host confirmed that the commission had hired outside counsel who was in active conversations with the nonprofit, potentially to purchase the property.

"It would be a shame if it went into anybody's hands that didn't consider it a 'community house,' so to speak," Host said. "It needs to remain a community institution  a Birmingham institution."

He added: "If the city needs to buy it to see that happens, I am one of seven."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But Host also said he did not know whether three other commissioners would agree with his point of view or whether the nonprofit would offer the city a deal to help preserve the house if it received offers from other bidders.

The nonprofit's upcoming meetings

Still, the city's statement was pointed.

The association announced plans earlier this month to become The Birmingham Area Community Foundation, sell the house and use the money to fund philanthropy beyond the city's limits, within a 10-mile radius.

The city, however, told the Free Press the nonprofit's "announced effort to sell the property to a private buyer" directly violates its deed restrictions and concluded that a sale "would permanently sever the public's rights in this historic property."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

And the city's 79-page court document, which was filed Tuesday, Nov. 25, and included several exhibits, asked the court to enforce the deed restrictions and block the sale. It noted that a 1930 deed imposed "clear and unambiguous restrictions."

The property, the city claimed, was to be "held and used exclusively as a nonprofit community center for the use by the residents" of the community "to carry on social, philanthropic and civic activities."

More: Future of Birmingham's century-old Community House suddenly uncertain

As for the nonprofit, it is set to hold public meetings on Dec. 10 and 11 to explain its position. It was unclear how much time there would be for residents to air concerns or propose alternative ideas.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The informational meetings, to which the nonprofit said the public is "invited to register and join us at," will be held at The Community House, 380 S. Bates St., at 1-2:30 p.m. and 5:30-7 p.m. on Dec. 10, and at 8:30-10 a.m. on Dec. 11.

Registration is at: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/communitytalks.

How much is the house worth?

In his interview with the Free Press, Host said if the city were to make an offer on the house, it's unclear how much it would have to pay, but he believes that the amount should benefit both the taxpayers and a future community foundation.

The city, he added, would not be taking property off the tax rolls, since the nonprofit already is a tax-exempt organization, and it would be helping to preserve the house's intended use.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The foundation would be able to continue operating.

The nonprofit's leadership, however, did not indicate how much money it believes the house would garner on the open market or how much the nonprofit may be willing to accept.

The association's latest Internal Revenue Service filings list assets of more than $2.8 million, which includes the house. And Realtor.com offered an estimate, based on tax records other similar properties, of nearly $5.3 million.

A competitive buyer might be willing to pay even more.

But now, with a lawsuit, depending on what happens in court, the question for the nonprofit board may be less about who it can sell the house to, and whether it will be able to sell it at all.

Contact Frank Witsil: 313-222-5022 or fwitsil@freepress.com

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Birmingham could end up buying The Community House's building
A worker accused of "stealing" snacks worth less than a dollar in South Korea has finally been acquitted after a legal battle lasting nearly two years.

The logistics firm he was working for had filed a claim against him last year for taking a Choco Pie -- a popular South Korean snack -- and a mini custard worth 1,050 won (73 cents) from an office fridge last year.

Deeming the offence minor, prosecutors had filed a summary indictment, but the driver insisted he was innocent and requested a formal trial.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A court found him guilty and fined him 50,000 won -- around fifty times the value of what he had eaten.

But the worker immediately appealed, and finally won the legal challenge.

"The defendant was acquitted," an official from the Jeonju District Court told AFP Friday.

The company had argued that unlike its staff, subcontracted workers like the accused were not allowed to open the refrigerator without permission.

But the appellate court said in its final ruling that the drivers were in fact told "they could eat snacks in the office, and the security employees ate snacks during night shifts."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

With 39 other subcontracted workers offering statements that they also ate snack from the fridge, the appellate court ruled that "it is difficult to conclude that the defendant had the intent to steal."

The defendant's lawyer told reporters after the ruling the driver "felt deeply ashamed that it led to a trial," as "he was simply hungry in the early morning and ate a Choco Pie."

"There were various ups and downs along the way, but I am very grateful for this outcome, and I believe the defendant feels the same," said the defendant's lawyer.

The case has sparked public outcry in South Korea, with labour unions comparing the worker to Jean Valjean, the protagonist of French classic novel "Les Miserables" jailed for stealing bread to feed his siblings.

hs/hmn
Nov. 28Albuquerque City Council candidate Teresa Garcia was arrested in 2015, and later acquitted, on a domestic violence charge after her then-husband called police and reported that she had attacked him in the couple's home.

Garcia was charged with aggravated battery against a household member (no great bodily harm), a misdemeanor. A Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court jury found Garcia not guilty of the charge on Aug. 21, 2015.

Garcia faces District 3 Councilor Klarissa Pena in a runoff election on Dec. 9. Pena won 41% of the vote Nov. 4 in a three-way contest, sending the race into a runoff with Garcia, who received 38% of the vote.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Garcia identifies herself as a victim of domestic violence and contends that her ex-husband used the criminal system against her by charging her with a crime.

"I was not the offender," Garcia said of the 2015 incident. "I was the victim and that was proven. I was exonerated and acquitted."

Garcia also said she had believed the case had been expunged from public records. Under state law, a person must file a petition in district court to expunge criminal records, but court records show no indication that Garcia filed an expungement petition.

The 2015 experience prompted Garcia to end her 10-year career as a pharmacy technician and become an advocate for survivors of domestic violence.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In October, Garcia completed a three-year term as chair of the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Commission for the city of Albuquerque. Currently, she works remotely as a digital marketing and communications specialist for the Maryland Network Against Domestic Violence.

Previously she served as director of training and communications for the New Mexico Coalition Against Domestic Violence from December 2019 through 2022.

"This is why I advocate so hard for (domestic violence) survivors in the community because of what I've been through," she said. "Sixty percent of survivors get arrested and I was one of those, and my offender used the court system to press charges."

The Journal asks all city candidates to complete a questionnaire that asks if the candidate has ever been arrested, charged or convicted of a crime. Garcia answered "no" to that question.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I didn't feel that I needed to share that in any platform or in any questionnaire, because I was exonerated," Garcia said this week. "I was acquitted, and it was, it should have been, expunged out, but they found it."

A criminal complaint filed in Metro Court shows that Garcia's then-husband, Orlando Williams, called Albuquerque police on Feb. 22, 2015, and said "his wife was upset and was throwing items at him" after confronting him about photos of women on his phone.

Williams said he was asleep when Garcia "began to punch and push him," the complaint said. He also told police that Garcia struck him in the forehead with a "Bible holder." An officer noted that Williams had a cut and swelling over his right eye.

"An additional call later came in from the wife who went to the neighbor's house to call police," the complaint said.

Williams also told police he pushed Garcia "in self defense," causing her to fall onto the couch "where her knee struck her on the nose, causing it to bleed," the complaint said.
COLOMBO, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on Friday instructed to accelerate rescue and relief operations due to recent floods, as 1.2 billion rupees (about 4 million U.S. dollars) have already been released for ongoing disaster-relief activities.

Meanwhile, he said that 30 billion rupees (about 100 million dollars) has been earmarked in the 2025 national budget for emergency needs.

To fast-track administration, the president instructed the secretary to the Ministry of Public Administration to issue a new circular removing barriers caused by existing regulations.

He also ordered that the management of relief centers sheltering displaced families be handed over to the Sri Lanka Army to ensure more efficient coordination.

District secretaries were asked to urgently report requirements for boats, helicopters, vehicles, and other equipment needed for rescue missions. A dedicated coordination unit will be established at defense headquarters, alongside 10 new emergency hotline numbers to support communication during crises.

The president also directed officials to document all damage to infrastructure, including roads, public buildings, utilities, and property caused by floods, landslides, and fallen trees. He said restoration efforts by the tri-forces will begin once the situation stabilizes, based on these assessments.

Heavy rains are to continue till Sunday. Fifty-six people have died so far due to floods and landslides in Sri Lanka. 
The annual "Black Friday" kickoff to the US holiday shopping season drew crowds Friday as millions of Americans seized on the time-tested custom at physical stores and through e-commerce.

A preliminary retailer assessment of the big shopping day -- which falls the day after the Thanksgiving holiday -- won't be available until next week.

But images from Boston, Houston and elsewhere showed the event still attracted hordes of bargain hunters, even if it has lost some luster compared with yesteryear.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Consumers lured to the Big Apple for Black Friday were met with cool temperatures but a bright sun as stores of varying size and price point pulled out the stops.

There were few takers early Friday morning at Target's big-box store near Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, where shoppers seemed to be outnumbered by staff who were rearranging merchandise and affixing signs boasting of 40 percent discounts.

Foot traffic was heavier outside Macy's Manhattan flagship store, where window displays featured scenes from Barbie and Lego in which characters bobbed and weaved.

Windows with interactive features drew the most interest, including one that beamed out the viewer's face in a giant star on Broadway.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"We were here because we were in the city already," said Michelle Stotts-Gillespie, after playing a game-like display on the 34th Street side of the giant department store.

More glitzy features awaited customers inside Macy's, the biggest department store in the country, with merchandise spread over 10 floors.

Some moved purposely towards choice brands, while others plunked themselves in the middle of the walkway, comparing prices in the store with those on their smartphones.

While Stotts-Gillespie, who lives in Florida, was thrilled by the Thursday's Thanksgiving Day parade, she wasn't planning to shop the day after.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"In the past, Black Friday used be a big deal but now it's kind of not because they have all the sales beforehand," she said.

- Worth waiting for -

But some shoppers still view Black Friday as "that time to just get it," Tranay Robinson explained after exiting a shop on 125th Street in Harlem. "Black Friday is a humongous day for me."

An inveterate coupon-clipper, Robinson said the discounts on Black Friday dwarf those throughout the year and are worth waiting for.

Not that Robinson's philosophy always results in brick-and-mortar purchases. Rather, her strategy is to check store prices against online offers before pulling the trigger.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The approach for the 2025 holiday season is "fewer gifts but more expensive," said Robinson, who works two jobs. "We're doing alright."

A block or so away, Jordan Williams and his family expressed contentment with their take from the morning, which included a pair of Air Jordan sneakers, perfume and items for two young children.

Williams expects to spend more this holiday season compared with last year, having relocated from Texas to New York in search of better professional opportunity.

"In Texas, it was just so slow," said Williams, who works as a bartender. "Here it's work after work after work."

jmb/des
Duff Friesen should serve jail time for assaulting a student two decades ago, a Crown prosecutor argued at the former principal of Christian Centre Academy's sentencing hearing in Saskatoon.

Friesen's defence lawyer, Daniel Mol, argued for a conditional discharge  no time in custody, and no criminal record if he follows release conditions.

A Saskatoon Court of King's Bench jury convicted Friesen of one count of assault in May and acquitted him of three other counts. Lawyers made their sentencing submissions on Friday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Crown prosecutor Sheryl Fillo argued for an eight-month jail term followed by two years of probation.

Judge Natasha Crooks reserved her decision until Dec. 18.

There is a court-ordered ban on publishing any evidence from the trial  including any victim impact statements submitted for sentencing  because Friesen has a second jury trial scheduled for September 2026.

He is also charged with seven counts of assault connected to his time at Christian Centre Academy, which was later renamed Legacy Christian Academy, then Valour Academy. The school is closely associated with Mile Two Church, now called Encounter Church.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He's one of three men connected to the school who have been charged with or convicted of assault. Former students alleged that some school leaders in the early 2000s used a wooden paddle to hit them.

John Olubobokun, a former director at the school, was found guilty of assaulting students with a wooden paddle and on Nov. 20 received an 18-month jail sentence to be served in the community.

Olubobokuns second trial is scheduled to start Dec. 2. He is charged with two counts of assault connected to his time at the school.

Ken Schultz, a former director and vice-principal at Christian Centre Academy, is charged with assault with a weapon for allegedly striking students with a wooden paddle in the early 2000s. He is also charged with sexual assault.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Schulz now has two trials scheduled, one in May 2026 and one in June 2026.

In July, a Saskatoon judge dismissed a $25-million class action lawsuit launched in 2022 against Legacy Christian Academy and Mile Two Church. A King's Bench judge said the plaintiffs failed to disclose previous settlement agreements with three defendants named in the suit.
PADANG, Indonesia (AP)  The death toll from flash floods and landslides on Indonesias Sumatra island rose to 164 on Friday with 79 people missing, authorities said, as rescue workers found their efforts hampered by damaged bridges and roads and a lack of heavy equipment.

Monsoon rains caused rivers to burst their banks in North Sumatra province Tuesday. The deluge tore through mountainside villages, swept away people and submerged more than 3,200 houses and buildings, the National Disaster Management Agency said. About 3,000 displaced families fled to government shelters.

The death toll in North Sumatra province rose to 116, while 25 people died in Aceh. Rescuers also retrieved 23 bodies in West Sumatra, National Disaster Mitigation Agencys Chief Suharyanto said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mudslides that covered much of the area, power blackouts and lack of telecommunications were hampering the search efforts, Suharyanto, who goes by a single name like many Indonesians, told a virtual news conference. He spoke from an airport in North Tapanuli district, shortly after conducting an aerial inspection above the devastated areas to see the scale of the disaster.

At a National Teachers' Day commemoration speech, President Prabowo Subianto noted that three aircraft including a Hercules C-130 and a newly Airbus A-400  carrying rescue personnel, food, medicines, blankets, field tents and generators were deployed Friday morning as part of ongoing relief operations.

We continue to send aid and support the needs of those affected, Prabowo said. Many roads are cut off and the weather remains unfavorable. Even our helicopters and planes sometimes struggle to land, he added.

Prabowo said the disaster highlights growing global challenges such as climate change, global warming and environmental degradation. He suggested that environmental awareness should be strengthened in school curricula.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We must teach the importance of protecting our environment and our forests, and seriously prevent illegal logging and destruction, he said.

Footage on the aerial view above devastated areas in the three provinces shows swathes of emerald forest and terraced hillsides have been ripped open, their scars bleeding torrents of mud into valleys below. In North Sumatra, entire neighborhoods in the provincial capital of Medan and Deli Serdang regency lie submerged under a vast sheet of brown water, rooftops barely visible as rivers burst their banks. Roads that once pulsed with traffic now resemble canals, littered with stranded vehicles and uprooted trees.

Rescue workers on Friday were trying to reach many people in isolated villages after floods or landslides damaged roads and bridges, Suharyanto said. Aid and other logistic supplies in some places can be distributed only by foot over the severe terrain,

Rescue teams struggled to reach affected areas in 12 cities and districts of North Sumatra province. while the flooding in West Sumatra also destroyed rice fields, livestock and public facilities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In Aceh province, authorities struggled to bring excavators and other heavy equipment over washed-out roads after torrential rains sent mud and rocks crashing onto hilly hamlets.

The extreme weather was driven by tropical cyclone Senyar, which formed in the Strait of Malacca, said Achadi Subarkah Raharjo at Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysical Agency.

He warned that unstable atmospheric conditions mean extreme weather could persist as long as the cyclone system remains active.

We have extended its extreme weather warning due to strong water vapor supply and shifting atmospheric dynamics, Raharjo said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Senyar intensified rainfall, strong winds, and high waves in Aceh, North Sumatra, West Sumatra, Riau, and nearby areas before dissipating. Its prolonged downpours left steep, saturated terrain highly vulnerable to disasters, he said.

Seasonal rains frequently cause flooding and landslides in Indonesia, an archipelago of 17,000 islands where millions of people live in mountainous areas or near fertile flood plains.

____

Karmini reported from Jakarta, Indonesia.

___ The Indonesian disaster agency revised the death toll to 164 after initially reporting 174 deaths, blaming the discrepancy on an error in calculating the death toll in Aceh district, where it lowered the toll to 25.
The Gaza-based nurse said that the Abu Shaab militia had abducted her and handed her over to the IDF.

Tasneem al-Hams, the daughter of a Hamas official and a registered nurse, claimed that an Israeli-backed militia abducted her and handed her to the IDF during an interview with Gazan photojournalist Ahmed Marwan.

Al-Hams said that the Abu Shabab militia abducted her and handed her over to the IDF. She claimed her interrogators told her that the military did not want anything from her, and she would soon be able to return home.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She was allegedly taken from a medical point south of Khan Yunis in early October by a group of four armed men.

The controversial NGO Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor claimed, The assailants blocked the nurses path as she headed to work, then several of them exited the vehicle, assaulted her, gagged her, and forcibly dragged her into the truck.

I saw a small truck carrying the belongings of displaced people, driven by a man accompanied by four others. The truck stopped, and they asked about the location of the medical point in Al-Ard Al-Tayyiba, an alleged eyewitness told the NGO.

It remained there for about 20 minutes. When the nurse, Tasneem al-Hams, approached, the truck moved to block her path. Four armed men then got out, covered her mouth with a piece of cloth, and forcibly pushed her into the truck, which quickly left the area amid gunfire to disperse citizens who tried to stop it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She was alleged to have spent an unknown period of time in solitary confinement during Israeli detention.

Tasneem al-Hams's brother, Mohammed al-Hams, told Euro-Med that his sister had been receiving threatening messages for a while.

Tasneem was working at the Kuwait Specialised Hospital, Abu Yousef al-Najjar Hospital, a MedGlobal medical point, and a Ministry of Health medical point in Al-Mawasi. She had been receiving blackmail messages from anonymous foreign and Palestinian numbers.

On my way to Nasser Medical Complex, I received a message from a woman in the area saying that a special Israeli force had kidnapped my sister Tasneem. I rushed to the scene and heard from people what had happened. Until now, we know nothing about her. I contacted several human rights organisations, but they said it was a holiday period in Israel and they could not obtain any information.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Al-Hamss father, Hamas health official Dr. Marwan al-Hams, was released from prison on Thursday, according to the Prisoners Affairs Office.

Palestinian advocacy groups, including the Palestinian Center for Prisoner Advocacy, claimed the nurse was arrested as a way to pressure Dr. al-Hams.

Security forces apprehend Marwan al-Hamas, November 20, 2025. (credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT)

The arrest of Hamas health official Dr. Marwan al-Hams

The Hamas-run Palestinian Health Ministry claimed in July that Dr. al-Hams was arrested by IDF forces while he was traveling to a Red Cross hospital in Rafah. The Hamas ministry claimed one person was killed and another wounded during the arrest after IDF soldiers opened fire.

The IDF claimedDr. al-Hams knew the location of the now-returned body of fallen IDF soldier Lt. Hadar Goldin.

Yonah Jeremy Bob contributed to this report.
Zambia's parliament has declared vacant the seat held by the daughter of the late ex-President Edgar Lungu, because of her continued absence in the wake of his death.

Until her dismissal, Tasila Lungu had been the MP for Chawama constituency in the capital, Lusaka, representing the opposition Patriotic Front.

In a message to her voters, she hinted she may try and challenge the decision saying: "Where there is a will there is a way".

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Her father died in June at the age of 68 in South Africa, where he was seeking medical treatment. This sparked a bitter legal row with his successor, President Hakainde Hichilema, who wanted to repatriate the body for a state funeral against the family's wishes.

Ms Lungu has been attending court in South Africa challenging an earlier ruling in August that sided with Hichilema's government.

The government had successfully argued in a Pretoria court that Hichilema must be able to attend the funeral because he is the head of state. Yet the Lungu family says the deceased gave instructions that the president "should not be anywhere near" his body.

The former president's remains are still in South Africa as the impasse continues.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Calls for her to lose her parliamentary seat first came from the ruling United Party for National Development. Brian Kambita MP questioned the speaker in July about whether Ms Lungu was still qualified to hold office because of her prolonged absence.

Speaker Nelly Mutti initially granted Ms Lungu 14 days of compassionate leave to mourn her father and return to parliament when it resumed in September.

However, she did not return within the given time.

Parliament wrote to Ms Lungu again, but instead of resuming her duties, she requested more time until the court case over the burial was resolved.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She also asked to be allowed to attend parliamentary sessions virtually.

The matter was referred to the parliamentary committee on privileges and absences, which invited Ms Lungu to appear on 18 November. She did not attend that meeting either.

The committee later suggested allowing her to represent her Chawama constituency online until her father's burial arrangements were concluded.

But Ms Mutti rejected that proposal, saying virtual attendance could not replace physical representation.

In a Facebook statement to her constituents on Friday, Ms Lungu thanked her "wonderful team of councillors, community members and constituency staff who continue to coordinate and work tirelessly to serve you".

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Elections for the seat are expected to be held within 90 days, despite Zambia holding a general election next August.

The decision to declare Ms Lungu's vacant has been received with mixed feelings - some argue that she should be allowed the time to mourn her father, while others say her constituents have been deprived of representation.

Independent MP Binwell Mpundu has accused the government of hypocrisy, saying it was wrong for them to claim solidarity with the Lungu family.

"You dragged [them] to court and today you nullify the parliamentary seat for the daughter who is mourning the late father. Hypocrites."

You may also be interested in:

[Getty Images/BBC]

Go to BBCAfrica.com for more news from the African continent.

Follow us on Twitter @BBCAfrica, on Facebook at BBC Africa or on Instagram at bbcafrica

BBC Africa podcasts
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission.

The city of Mohenjo-Daro was an important site for the Indus Valley Civilization. . | Credit: ASIF HASSAN/AFP via Getty Images

A series of severe, decades-long droughts ushered the end of the Indus Valley Civilization, one of the world's oldest civilizations , a new study finds.

This Indus Valley Civilization (also known as the "Harappan" civilization) flourished between 5,000 and 3,500 years ago in a region that stretched across the modern-day India-Pakistan border. Its people created cities, such as Harappa and Mohenjo Daro, which had sophisticated water-management systems. They also created a written script, which remains undeciphered by modern scholars, and they traveled to Mesopotamia , where they conducted trade.

Advertisement Advertisement

Why their civilization declined has long been a matter of debate. Now, in a new study, published Thursday (Nov. 27) in the journal Communications Earth & Environment , scientists say that lengthy droughts played a sizable role.

"Successive major droughts, each lasting longer than 85 years, were likely a key factor in the eventual fall of the Indus Valley Civilization," the scientific team wrote in a statement. As these droughts got worse, populations within the society shifted to areas where substantial water sources still existed, the researchers found.

Eventually, cities across the region collapsed. A century-long drought that started about 3,500 years ago "coincides with widespread deurbanization and cultural abandonment of major [cities]," the team wrote in the paper.

Climate simulations

For the analysis, the team used three different publicly available global climate simulations  complex computer simulations that use a vast amount of data to determine how the climate has changed over thousands of years. They used these to determine how rainfall and temperature changed between 5,000 years ago to 3,000 years ago in the area where the Indus Valley Civilization once thrived. All three simulations showed the existence of the droughts.

Advertisement Advertisement

"The consistent decline in rainfall from 5000 to 3000 years [ago] across all simulations ensures that features such as multi-century droughts, monsoon weakening, or winter rainfall shifts are real, persistent signals and not artifacts of a single model," study lead author Hiren Solanki , a doctoral student at the Indian Institute of Technology at Gandhinagar, told Live Science in an email.

The team put the rainfall and temperature data into a hydrological model to determine how rivers, streams and other bodies of water in the region changed over time. They compared this to archaeological data showing where settlements existed and saw that they tended to shift over time to stay close to water.

A map of the Indus Valley Civilization, which was centered around the Indus River. The dots show the major archaeological sites. | Credit: Vimal Mishra et al.

To double check their results, the team looked at previous studies that analyzed how quickly stalagmites and stalactites in caves in the region grew. These structures grow slower at times when there is less precipitation, providing indirect evidence of drought. As an additional method to determine how precipitation patterns changed, the team also looked at previous studies that show how sedimentary deposits in lakes changed in the region over time.

By comparing the simulation data with the cave and lake-deposit data, they could confirm that the data from the simulations was fairly accurate.

Advertisement Advertisement

RELATED STORIES

Mysterious Indus Valley people gave rise to modern-day South Asians

Dancing Girl: A pint-size statue from the Indus Valley Civilization with a larger-than-life presence

Severe drought helped bring about 'barbarian' invasion of Roman Britain, study finds

Nick Scroxton , a research scientist of hydrology, paleoclimate and paleoenvironments at University College Dublin who was not involved with the research, praised the study.

"The Indus River is clearly important to the Harappan and modelling the river flows helps us understand how changing rainfall patterns might have influenced changes in both urban settlement and agricultural practices," Scroxton told Live Science in an email.
Researchers from artificial intelligence start-up DeepSeek and tech giant Alibaba Group Holding have endorsed China's emerging AI regulatory framework while calling for clearer feedback in a paper published in the US journal Science.

The paper, published last month under the title "China's emerging regulation towards an open future for AI", said the country had so far facilitated an "innovation- and openness-friendly institutional environment for AI developers" but that it could be further improved with a national AI law.

The paper served as an introduction for foreign readers to China's "pragmatic" AI governance system, the subject of much misunderstanding abroad, said Zhang Linghan, a professor at the China University of Political Science and Law, and one of the paper's 10 co-authors.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team.

"China has actually transformed from a follower to a leader in AI governance, which is significant," said Zhang, who was among those who drafted a proposed national AI law introduced last year.

The Alibaba logo is seen at its office in Beijing, Aug. 10, 2021. Photo: AP alt=The Alibaba logo is seen at its office in Beijing, Aug. 10, 2021. Photo: AP>

Joining the other legal experts in co-authoring the paper were two industry representatives: Fu Hongyu, director of AI governance at Alibaba's research institute, AliResearch, and Wu Shaoqing, head of AI governance at DeepSeek. Alibaba owns the Post.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It was the second time in recent months that Wu had contributed to discussions on AI governance, after appearing on a panel about guard rails for ethical AI at the Global Open-Source Innovation Meetup in Hangzhou in September.

According to the paper, led by assistant professor of law at Tongji University and former ByteDance researcher Zhu Yue, China's AI regulatory framework was taking shape at the same time as its open-source systems gained popularity worldwide. Central to the existing framework were a patchwork of AI-related regulations, including pre-deployment filing requirements for AI models and content safety self-assessments.

The authors suggested that the current framework had six pillars at its core, including exemptive rules for open-source AI and AI-powered scientific research, efficient judicial adjudication of AI-related cases and "experimentalist" phasing-in of new rules.

However, the authors noted that there was still room for improvement as this patchwork was "already complicated" in some areas, such as the lack of clear feedback when a filing was rejected.

The DeepSeek app icon is seen in this illustration picture. Photo: DigiTimes alt=The DeepSeek app icon is seen in this illustration picture. Photo: DigiTimes>

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Another area of concern was the "extreme risks" associated with open frontier AI models, which could lead to "dangerous misuse" if the current exemptions for open-source AI were too broad.

"We argue that China's leading AI companies need to be even more transparent and evidence-based about their efforts to govern frontier models," the authors wrote.

While China has not introduced a unified national AI law, legal scholars have circulated two proposed versions that outline liability for Chinese AI developers, providers and users for AI-related misuse and incidents.

The authors noted that leading international and Chinese AI companies still "lack independent verification" mechanisms for managing the risks of frontier models, at a time when Chinese models were catching up with their US counterparts in terms of "frontier risks", according to a recent study by Beijing consultancy Concordia AI.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"The paper presents a governance logic that differs from the approach adopted in Europe and the United States," said Fang Liang, Concordia AI's head of AI safety and governance in China. "AI 'openness' is defined here as a safety mechanism rather than as a source of risk."

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.
The Democratic Party hopeful in Tennessee's upcoming special election, Aftyn Behn, is going viral due to a 2019 incident when she was working as a political organizer and was forcibly removed from Democrat Gov. Bill Lee's office during an attempted sit-in.

The 2019 incident came before Behn entered elected office in 2023 by winning a special election to take over the state's District 51 seat. Prior to her entrance into the Tennessee state legislature, Behn worked as a political organizer for numerous far-left activist groups, such as "No Kings" protests co-organizer Indivisible, Enough Is Enough Tennessee and the Tennessee Justice Center.

During her work with Enough Is Enough, which the conservative Capital Research Center says was established to target Tennessee lawmakers accused of sexual misconduct, Behn participated in a sit-in in Lee's office, which resulted in a video recording of her skating past officers to get inside before they ran after her and yanked her out of the office.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Tennessee Candidate Blasts Dem Opponent's Unacceptable Tweets Calling To Dissolve Nashville Police

The sit-in was aimed at pressuring the governor to demand the resignation of a state representative who had been accused of, but not charged with, sexual assault allegations, according to News Channel 5 Nashville.

Aftyn Behn, a 7th congressional district candidate in Tennessee, speaks during a political forum Sept. 8, 2025, in Dickson, Tenn.

Behn appears to be heard wailing in the video as she gets yanked out of the governor's office after reportedly being told she could face arrest. A subsequent social media post by local news outlet The Tennessee Holler showed Behn on day two of the attempted sit-in, lying with a blanket and pillow in front of the governor's office weeping.

Read On The Fox News App

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"HAPPENING NOW: Aftyn Behn Of Enough Is Enough Tennessee weeps after being roughly tossed out of Governor Bill Lee's office by troopers," the post says.

Fox News Digital reached out to the Behn campaign for comment on the viral video but did not receive a response.

Republican National Committee spokesperson Delanie Bomar pointed out that Behn "is the same woman who says she hates Nashville and wants to burn down police stations," arguing she is "wildly unfit for office, and this video is further proof of that."

With the Tuesday special election for Tennessee's 7th Congressional District looming, Behn has been the brunt of numerous attacks for her radical past.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Full-blown Battle Brewing In Dem Party As Mamdani-style Candidates Rise In Key Races

One of those attacks stemmed from past comments Behn made on a podcast, claiming she "hated" the city she is trying to represent, Nashville.

Others include radical calls to "dissolve" police departments and previous justification for violent riots and burning down police stations.

When pressed over the weekend about her anti-police positions in the past, Behn dodged the question three different times. She claimed the attacks on her comments about hating Nashville were "obviously taken out of context" and are just part of an attack campaign against her because Republicans are scared.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I do not hate country music. I was conceived after a George Strait concert," Behn quipped during an interview on the "Breaking Points with Krystal and Saagar" podcast.

"It just shows  The New York Times reporter  that there's a 48-page dossier of me, which includes clips," she said. "I had a podcast back in the day called G.R.I.T.S.  Girls Raised In The South  and I was lamenting about, you know, the things that are wrong with our city. Obviously taken out of context, obviously hyperbolic, and I don't feel that way at all."

Behn added that she thinks the attack ultimately backfired, and shows her opponent is "digging deep."

During the "Breaking Points" interview, Behn tried to dispel the criticism that she hates the district she is trying to represent by arguing that she has spent "the past decade" of her life "pouring blood, sweat and tears into my city and my state to make it better for working people."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Click Here To Download The Fox News App

However, that working-class campaign message also has been challenged by Behn's past ahead of the special election.

The state representative, for example, voted no in 2024 on a bill that would have resulted in a $400 million tax cut for certain Tennessee small businesses, including potential refunds of up to $1.5 billion.

Pictured above are the two candidates for the Dec. 2 Tennessee special election. On the left is GOP candidate Matt Van Epps, and on the right is Democratic Party candidate Aftyn Behn.

Among her other anti-tax cutting actions, Behn rallied against Republicans' H.R. 1, the so-called "big, beautiful bill." The bill, which extended President Donald Trump's 2017 tax cuts, could have meant a nearly $4,000 increase for taxpayers in her district if it had not passed based on economic analyses.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lee called the move the "single largest tax cut" in the state's history.

Behn also voted against a statewide budget bill earlier in 2025 that would have added tens of millions to the state's rainy day fund, which would have effectively padded the state's coffers so that, in times of low revenue, taxes won't need to be increased so much.

That same budget bill would have also allocated millions for volunteer fire departments, senior centers, emergency medical services, teacher bonuses and other public safety funding.





Original article source: Dem House hopeful getting yanked from governor's office during attempted sit-in goes viral ahead of election
Former Department of Justice staffers have signed off their farewells with notes slamming Donald Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi for causing irreversible damage to the agency.

Nearly 5,500 employees have left the DOJ since Trump took office in January, either by taking buyouts, quitting, or being fired, leading some to complain in their parting messages of a toxic work environment.

The Justice Connection, a network of FBI alumni and DOJ, has compiled a hefty tranche of farewell messages, seen by Axios, expressing discontent with how Bondi and the Ccommanderinchief are running the agency.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Stacey Young, Executive Director of The Justice Connection, wrote in her own message that DOJ employees are being forced to put loyalty to the President over the Constitution, the rule of law, and their professional ethical obligations."

Departing DOJ staff have slammed Donald Trump and Pam Bondi for their stewardship of the Justice Department, claiming that they are causing irreversible damage (Getty)

Meanwhile, three assistant U.S. attorneys, who resisted dropping corruption charges against New York Mayor Eric Adams, claimed in a joint statement that the DOJ has decided that obedience supersedes all else.

"There is no greater privilege than to work for an institution whose mandate is to do the right thing, the right way, for the right reasons," they wrote in a collective statement. "We will not abandon this principle to keep our jobs."

Also, Anam Rahman Petit, an immigration judge at the DOJ, claimed that the federal agency was "replacing career judges with less experienced or politically malleable ones reflects a systemic effort to reshape the bench with individuals more likely to deny cases without regard for due process."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Since January, the DOJ has become increasingly mired in controversy, with many farewell notes pointing to the growing criticism that the federal agency is being used to target Trumps political enemies.

The Justice Department has been accused of being weaponized to target Trumps enemies (Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Nearly all of the farewell messages are very complimentary about the DOJ itself, instead limiting their criticisms to Trump and Bondis stewardship of it.

Former trial attorney Carrie A. Syme published her own post on LinkedIn, writing that she did not recognize the current incarnation of the DOJ.

However, she urged readers to "please remember that the vast majority of DOJ attorneys are people of goodwill who are trying to maintain a true sense of justice."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump has often claimed that the DOJ was weaponized against him, while simultaneously bringing legal cases against his political enemies, including former FBI Director James Comey, New York Attorney General Letitia James, and even a case against the Justice Department itself.

Trump has even turned on the DOJ itself though, demanding that the agency pay him $230 million (Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Last month, the president demanded that the Department of Justice pay him $230 million in compensation for federal investigations into him.

Trumps two complaints focus on the FBI investigation into alleged Russian interference in the 2016 election and the FBI raid on Mar-a-Lago in 2022, over alleged mishandling of classified documents by the then-former president.

However, several of his legal cases, including those aimed at Comey and James, have collapsed after a judge ruled that Trump had illegally appointed the prosecutor.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Trump administration has threatened to try again to bring charges against Comey and James.

The facts of the indictments against Comey and James have not changed, and this will not be the final word on this matter, a White House spokesperson told NewsNation reporter Libbey Dean.

The Independent has contacted the DOJ and the White House for comment.
DMACC President Rob Denson, left, listens to Jenny Foster, executive academic dean of building trades, transportation/engineering and manufacturing, speak on issues with the building housing diesel and other programs. (Photo by Brooklyn Draisey/Iowa Capital Dispatch)

As Des Moines Area Community College President Rob Denson prepares to step away from the role  and the campus community hes spent more than two decades serving  he said hes working to make sure the college, ongoing projects and its new leaders are in the best place they can be.

After 22 years leading DMACC and more than 40 years in higher education, Denson will retire at the end of the year, with interim president Liang Chee Wee set to take over until a permanent president is found. Looking back on his career at the community college, Denson said he has no regrets.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Weve got a great organization. Weve got enough facilities to handle everybody in central Iowa or be available to everybody in central Iowa. I think the operation is pretty good. Weve got a very strong team, a leadership team thats passionate about what they do, Denson said. But other than that, you know, I think Im going to feel like Ive done enough.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

A couple of capital projects currently in progress are still itching at him, however, namely new construction for the dental hygiene and assistance programs and industrial trade facilities. Construction crews have already broken ground on both of the projects, Denson said, but he was hoping to see at least $2 million raised by the college for both projects before he retires.

The community college foundations lack of an executive director has slowed fundraising, he said, and a search to fill the position didnt see success. With Densons retirement coming up, he said the plan was to wait until a new president is in office to start the search up again. But with the presidential search itself delayed due to candidates withdrawing, hes now spoken with Wee about trying to hire for the job instead of holding back.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Since were not going to a permanent president probably till next June or July, were going to go ahead and fill that position, because I want to get that person up and running as far as raising that money, Denson said.

In his time as president, Denson said hes seen new technologies change the direction of higher education, from cell phones to artificial intelligence. DMACC is already offering both noncredit and credit courses in AI and related technologies, having been the first college in Iowa to partner with Intel to create curriculum and resources on the subject.

Employers Denson has spoken to in his role as president have said theyre looking for hires with skills and competency in AI tools. Denson predicted that AI training will be incorporated into every program going forward, whether thats at community colleges, four-year universities or training offered directly by companies.

I think the technology that we have and the ability to support students is really exciting, and this means that we can help them get through easier, Denson said. And there is so much support in Iowa.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A more recent sign of change Denson said hes not quite so hopeful about is the possibility of community colleges offering four-year degrees, something the association Community Colleges for Iowa explored at the prompting of Iowa lawmakers.

Community colleges already have amazing partnerships with Iowas four-year institutions, Denson said, and there arent any crises of capacity causing the need for such a shift in programming. When he worked in higher education in Florida, Denson said something similar occurred, but that was because universities simply didnt have the room for all of the students.

I think the Legislature is pretty smart, and I think theyll work with the four-year institutions, and with us, and if theres a gap there somewhere that we can fill, were happy to do that, Denson said. We do it all the time, but a blanket bachelor degree authority is probably not something that I would be excited about.

Nearly two years after breaking the record to become DMACCs longest-serving president, Densons favorite part about his job has now become the thing he will miss the most  graduation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Seeing all of the students and families come out to celebrate such an important milestone as graduation, especially as more than one-third of DMACC students are low-income and more than half are first-generation, has been the highlight of his career, Denson said. Hell miss the students, as well as the faculty, staff and leadership he has worked with for so long.

Then again, you know, Im not going to be lonely, Denson said. Ive got plenty to do.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
THE HAGUE, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- The International Criminal Court (ICC) rejected an appeal on Friday to release the Philippines' former President Rodrigo Duterte on grounds of age and declining health.

Duterte, who served as president of the Philippines from 2016 to 2022, was detained and transferred to the ICC in March following an arrest warrant over his controversial "war on drugs" campaign, a move he has challenged. 
The fatal shooting of National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom, 20, near the White House on November 26 has renewed scrutiny of the 2021 Afghan evacuation program that allowed suspected gunman Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, to enter the United States despite documented federal failures in screening and identity verification.

Lakanwal, who allegedly drove cross-country from Bellingham, Washington, before opening fire with a .357 Smith & Wesson revolver, was one of the more than 79,000 Afghan evacuees brought to the United States under Operation Allies Welcome (OAW) following the fall of Kabul.

Federal Audit Found Major Breakdowns in Screening and Identity Verification

A 2022 DHS Office of Inspector General audit found that the U.S. government did not always have critical data to properly screen, vet, or inspect Afghan evacuees, including missing names, incorrect birthdates, invalid document numbers, and incomplete biographic information.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Among the findings:

88,977 records in CBPs system contained questionable or incomplete biographic data, including thousands of evacuees recorded with the placeholder date of birth January 1.

CBP admitted or paroled evacuees who were not fully vetted and lacked reliable identity documentation.

DHS had no contingency plan for evacuees without identification, despite knowing many would arrive without documents due to the collapse of the Afghan government.

The department may have admitted or paroled individuals into the United States who pose a risk to national security and the safety of local communities.

Officials told auditors that evacuees frequently did not know their exact birthdates, spoke little English, and arrived without documentation, creating widespread errors in U.S. databases.

The report also noted that CBP sometimes relied on photos of handwritten flight manifests to enter traveler information, which introduced additional errors during the emergency evacuation process.

Known Security Concerns Among Evacuees

The OIG separately confirmed that at least two evacuees with national security concerns were allowed into the United States. In one case, CBP paroled an individual who had been freed from an Afghan prison by the Taliban just weeks earlier. He was not flagged until weeks after arrival and was later removed from the country.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Another evacuee, later identified as posing a national security concern, remained in the U.S. for months before derogatory information surfaced.

Lakanwal Not the Only Afghan Evacuee Later Accused of Violence or Terror Offenses

Lakanwal is not the only Afghan evacuee linked to serious criminal or terrorism-related allegations.

In October 2024, federal agents arrested Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, an Afghan evacuee airlifted during the 2021 withdrawal, for an alleged ISIS-inspired Election Day mass-casualty plot.

According to court records, Tawhedi previously worked as an outside guard for a CIA facility but maintained communication with ISIS operatives and was planning an attack alongside a juvenile co-conspirator.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

U.S. officials initially claimed Tawhedi was vetted thoroughly, but later acknowledged that he was not vetted through the procedures previously described publicly, and that several layers of the claimed screening never occurred.

How OAW Screening Was Designed  and Where It Failed

According to DHS official description of Operation Allies Welcome, evacuees were supposed to undergo:

biometric screening (fingerprints and photographs)

biographic screening

database queries across DHS, DOD, FBI, and intelligence systems

pre-departure flight manifest vetting

CBP primary and secondary inspection upon arrival

additional vetting at U.S. military safe-haven bases

But the OIG audit found that:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The process was inconsistent , ad hoc , and not governed by formal written policies during the first months of the evacuation.

DHS lacked a complete list of evacuees who arrived without identification , making retrospective screening difficult.

Biometric enrollment was incomplete: 1,299 evacuees arrived without fingerprints taken prior to travel.

The audit concluded DHS cannot be sure all evacuees were properly vetted.

Growing Political Pressure After Beckstroms Death

Following the attack, President Donald Trump issued a sweeping statement on X announcing a permanent pause on migration from what he described as Third World Countries, citing national security concerns.

Trump pledged to reverse millions of Biden illegal admissions, denaturalize individuals who undermine domestic tranquility, and deport any foreign national who is a public charge, a security risk, or non-compatible with Western Civilization.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Federal officials have not yet disclosed whether Lakanwal avoided screening entirely or passed through the flawed systems documented in the DHS audit.

The investigation into the attack remains ongoing.
LAFAYETTE, IN  Several Indiana police agencies are looking into whether a Thanksgiving Day pursuit on Interstate 65 that ended in Tippecanoe County has a connection to an Indianapolis house fire where two people were found dead from gunshot wounds.

At 10:17 a.m. Nov. 27, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police were called to help Indianapolis Fire investigators at a home in the 3700 block of North Audubon Road on Indianapolis' east side after being notified that a person had been shot, according to an IMPD news release.

Firefighters were originally there after a caller said the home was filled with smoke and children were inside, the release said. Officers found a woman shot at the scene, who was taken to an area hospital in critical condition but was pronounced dead a short time later. A man was also found shot and pronounced dead at the scene.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At 11 a.m., Tippecanoe County sheriff's Chief Deputy Terry Ruley said deputies were called to help Indiana State Police and the Whitestown Metropolitan Police with stop-stick deployment for the pursuit of a white Dodge Charger that initially began in Boone County.

The chase ended at the 168-mile marker on northbound I-65, Ruley said, when the car went off the highway and into a ditch on the east side of the road. The driver of the car refused to comply with demands made over a PA speaker.

The car's tinted windows made it difficult for officers to see into the vehicle, Ruley said, leading police to fire non-lethal bean bag rounds into the car's windows in an effort to gain some visibility. The driver then gave into the commands to exit the vehicle.

Because of injuries sustained in the crash, the driver was taken to IU Health Arnett in Lafayette for further treatment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Indianapolis police said in a release that the department believes the driver of the Dodge Charger may be connected to the homicides at North Audubon Road, but its unclear how.

ISP Sgt. Jeremy Piers said the pursuit began in Whitestown. Because it is a Whitestown police case, Piers said ISP would not be able to release any information about potential arrests or more information on the traffic stop.

Calls to Whitestown Police were not returned Friday.

An IMPD homicide detective is in communication with the Whitestown police about the vehicle and the driver from the Thanksgiving Day pursuit that ended, the IMPD release said, because of a possible connection with an ongoing homicide investigation.

Investigators work the scene where two people were found shot and killed Thursday, Nov. 27, 2025, on the 3700 block of North Audubon Road in Indianapolis.

"The connection, if any, remains a part of the dynamic and ongoing investigation," the release said. "The Whitestown polices investigation, stopping charge, and subsequent arrest resulting from their pursuit will be separate and independent from any ongoing IMPD homicide investigation."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The driver, who has not been identified, remains in the hospital in Lafayette.

Anyone with information pertaining to the house fire or the traffic stop is asked to contact Det. Larry Craciunoiu with the IMPD homicide office at 317-327-3475 or Larry.Craciunoiu@indy.gov.

Jillian Ellison is a reporter for the Journal & Courier. She can be reached via email at jellison@gannett.com.

IndyStar's public safety reporter, Noe Padilla, contributed to this article.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: I-65 chase may be connected to Thanksgiving homicides in Indianapolis
Gilbert police have arrested a man in connection with a September crash that killed two people and a dog, according to officials.

The collision happened on Sept. 19 at the intersection of Recker and Ray roads. According to police, Nicole Snell, 36, was working as a Lyft driver and picked up Marisa Jorgenson, 33, as a passenger.

Snell was driving northbound through when her vehicle was struck by another car that ran a red light while traveling westbound, the Gilbert Police Department said in a news release.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The impact caused Snell's car to spin and hit a traffic pole, while the other vehicle rolled over, according to police.

Officers responded at about 9 p.m. Snell and Jorgenson were pronounced dead at the scene, police said.

Snell's dog, Bellini, who was also in the car, died as a result of the crash, police said.

The man inside the vehicle that rolled over, identified as Robb Hintzche, 35, was taken to the hospital in critical condition where he later recovered, police said.

Investigators determined Hintzche was driving between 89 mph and 96 mph, nearly double the posted 45 mph limit, and had a blood alcohol content of 0.287%.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That amount, 0.287%, is three times over the legal blood alcohol content limit of 0.08%, according to the Arizona Department of Public Safety.

After his release from the hospital, Hintzche was arrested and booked on two counts of second-degree murder, three counts of felony endangerment and one count of animal cruelty.

"This case is a heartbreaking reminder of the devastating consequences of drinking and driving," the Gilbert Police Department said in a statement.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Robb Hintzche arrested in Gilbert crash that killed 2 people, dog
(AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Republican commentator Meghan McCain branded Vivek Ramaswamys (R) plan to keep kids in school year-round as absolutely insane.

Ramaswamy is running to become Ohios next governor. He became the sole Republican in the gubernatorial primary after Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel bowed out in September, and will most likely face Democrat Dr. Amy Acton, Ohios Covid-era health director.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

McCain retweeted Actons post Friday of Ramaswamy proposing on video, Make parenting more affordable by making school year-round and going til 4:00 instead of 3:00, so you dont have to pay for child care.

McCain then eviscerated the idea.

This is an absolutely insane idea  completely removing the importance of family bonding time and anything non academic related. I dont want my kids to be school robot-trons with no balance or life outside of school. ENOUGH with this.

This is an absolutely insane idea  completely removing the importance of family bonding time and anything non academic related. I dont want my kids to be school robot-trons with no balance or life outside of school. ENOUGH with this. https://t.co/0TOP9tSXzx  Meghan McCain (@MeghanMcCain) November 28, 2025

The Daily Beast reported that Ramaswamy posted the video to TikTok on Monday, but then deleted it shortly after Actons tweet.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The video was posted on Monday afternoon and was up for several hours before it was deleted and replaced with a version that removed Ramaswamys year-round school proposal, the report said. He did, however, leave the original up on his Threads account. It is unclear why Ramaswamy deleted the proposal from his other platforms.

The report continued that MAGA voices immediately defended Ramaswamy by claiming that Acton had AI-generated the video in an attempt to smear Ramaswamy.

Acton was extremely unpopular with the MAGA crowd during Covid because of her masking and lockdown mandates.

Actons campaign manager, Philip Stein, told The Daily Beast, Blowing a massive hole in public school budgets by forcing teachers and students into year-round school is yet another example of how out of touch Vivek Ramaswamy is with Ohioans. No wonder his own supporters think his videos are AI.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ramaswamy ran for the Republican nomination for president in 2024, dropping out in January. He was hand-picked by Donald Trump to lead the Department of Government Efficiency with Elon Musk, but left Washington a few months later to launch his gubernatorial campaign.

The post ENOUGH: Meghan McCain Outraged at Vivek Ramaswamys Deleted Plan for Year-Round School first appeared on Mediaite.
Pharma company Neuraxpharm and medical device developer mjn-neuro have announced plans to launch EPISERAS, an epileptic seizure alert wearable, across Europe in Q2 2026.

Mjn-neuros wearable earpiece sensor continuously records the brain activity of epilepsy patients. Using artificial intelligence (AI), Episera analyses electrical brain patterns to determine when a seizure is likely to occur. Pairing with a dedicated smartphone app, the sensor sends an alert minutes before a seizure is forecast to occur when it interprets that risk levels are high.

Episera, which is intended for homecare and ambulatory use, is the first digital health tool for real-time early seizure detection, according to the companies. The device is classified as a Class IIa medical device and gained a European CE mark in 2020. Episeras European commercialisation will be handled by German pharma Neuraxpharm.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Neuraxpharm signed an exclusive licence agreement to market Episera in Europe in 2022. The agreement covers all EU member states as well as the UK, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Switzerland.

David Blanquez, mjn-neuros CEO, commented: Our team has been developing this pioneering project for more than ten years, and thanks to the results obtained from several clinical studies, mjn-neuro has successfully demonstrated solid clinical evidence supporting its effectiveness.

A multicentre, prospective clinical study called SERAS-Home_RWD (NCT05845255) is also currently underway.

We are now focused on ensuring that patients can benefit from this innovation that will help improve their quality of life and reduce accidents caused by seizures., Blanquez added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For Neuraxpharm, it marks an entry into the digital health arena. The companys portfolio also includes Buccolam (midazolam), which is indicated for the emergency treatment of epilepsy with prolonged acute convulsive seizures (PACS). The company acquired global rights to the asset from Takeda in 2020 yet has not disclosed how much the drug has generated in revenue.

Epilepsy is a disorder of the CNS, with seizures a side effect of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Research indicates that around 50 million people are living with epilepsy worldwide. The condition can significantly impact individuals physical, psychological, social, and practical aspects of their daily life.

Other companies developing tools for epilepsy include Australias Epiminder. In April 2025, the company received a de novo classification from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for Minder, an implantable electroencephalogram (EEG) monitoring system (iCEM) that aims to help clinicians improve diagnoses for epilepsy and monitor how well treatments for the condition are working.

"Epileptic seizure alert wearable set to launch in Europe in 2026" was originally created and published by Medical Device Network, a GlobalData owned brand.




By Sybille de La Hamaide

PARIS (Reuters) -An unusually early outbreak of bird flu cases affecting high numbers of wild birds and poultry farms across Europe and North America is raising concerns of a repeat of previous crises that led to mass culling and food price spikes.

The highly pathogenic avian influenza, commonly called bird flu, has led to the culling of hundreds of millions of farmed birds in the past few years, disrupting food supplies and driving up prices. Human infections remain rare.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While outbreaks typically spike in the northern hemisphere autumn as migratory birds fly south, they appeared earlier and in greater numbers in Europe and the U.S., affecting both wild birds and poultry.

MORE OUTBREAKS THAN PREVIOUS SEASONS

In the U.S., 107 outbreaks were reported by November 18, nearly four times last year's total. Minnesota, the country's largest turkey producing state, confirmed its first case two months earlier than in 2022.

"It's certainly more than we've seen over the last few winter-fall migratory bird seasons," said Tim Boring, director of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development of Michigan, another large turkey state.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I think it's part of this ongoing pattern... we're still well within this current outbreak that's lasted several years now," he said.

The U.S. has already culled about 8 million birds since September, a slight increase from last year, government data showed.

Canada, which has a smaller poultry flock than the U.S., has also culled nearly 8 million birds. Canadian Agriculture Minister Heath MacDonald said the bird flu situation was getting "very worrisome".

"Wild birds seem to be carrying more of this disease. So it's scary in some ways," he told Reuters.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The World Organisation for Animal Health said the early outbreaks were concerning but not alarming.

"There should not be a public health alarm. An increase in number of cases could have different explanations. What we need to observe is the actual virus itself," said Gregorio Torres, head of WOAH's scientific department.

DIFFERENT WILD BIRDS AFFECTED

In Europe, the situation was also more severe than last year, with Germany recording the highest number of outbreaks in three years.

Between early September and mid-November, 1,443 cases of bird flu were detected in wild birds in 26 European countries - a fourfold increase compared with the same period in 2024 and the highest since 2016, the European food safety agency EFSA said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"What's new this season? It's not exactly the same birds that are being affected. This time, we've seen contamination occur earlier among wild birds, and now we're starting to detect cases that are spreading to farmed birds," French health security agency ANSES Deputy Director General Gilles Salvat told reporters on Thursday.

Salvat pointed to common cranes - which typically migrate earlier than waterfowl species such as ducks, geese and swans - as a major factor behind the outbreak, which spread from northeast to southwest Europe, with high fatalities in Germany and France.

France put its poultry sector on high alertin October, much earlier than in previous years.

The situation was more normal in most of Asia except for Cambodia, which has seen severe bird flu outbreaks, while Japan reported its first case on October 22 - five days later than last year. About 1.65 million birds have been culled so far in Japan.

(Reporting by Sybille de La Hamaide; Additional reporting by Tom Polansek in Chicago, Leah Douglas in Washington, Ed White in Winnipeg, Peter Hobson in Canberra, Michael Hogan in Hamburg, Emma Pinedo in Madrid, Yuka Obayashi in Tokyo; Editing by Nigel Hunt and Emelia Sithole-Matarise)
Former Peruvian president Pedro Castillo has been sentenced to 11 years, five months and 15 days in prison for an attempted coup d'etat.

A court in the capital Lima found the ex-president (2021-2022) guilty of conspiracy to commit rebellion. The prosecution had sought a 34-year prison sentence.

To pre-empt an impending vote of no confidence, Castillo in December 2022 dissolved Congress. He wanted to establish an emergency government and rule by decree going forward.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Congress then removed him from office on grounds of "moral incapacity." He was arrested on charges of attempted coup and has been in custody since.

The former village school teacher was supported mainly by farmers and indigenous people, who had long felt ignored by the elites in Lima and benefited little from the South American country's economic growth.

However, Castillo, who had little political experience, came under pressure soon after taking office as ministers quit his cabinet and he repeatedly clashed with Congress.

Several former presidents behind bars

In Peru, almost all heads of state of the past 25 years have had problems with the justice system.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Wednesday, Martin Vizcarra (2018-2020) was sentenced to 14 years in prison for corruption.

In April, former president Ollanta Humala (2011-16) was sentenced to 15 years in prison for money laundering, and last year, Alejandro Toledo (2001-06) was sentenced to 20 years and six months in prison for corruption.

Former president Alan Garcia (1985-90 and 2006-11) took his own life in 2019 when police attempted to arrest him on corruption charges.

Vizcarra's predecessor Pedro Pablo Kuczynski (2016-18) is also under investigation for alleged corruption.
Heres even more reason to get a flu shot: This years flu season is expected to be a bad one, potentially even worse than last years record-breaking season.

Last year was the worst flu season in 15 years for the United States, with high hospitalizations and infection levels.

Health: 22 Small Things That People Say Made Them Drastically Happier

We also saw the highest number of pediatric flu deaths that weve seen since 2009-2010, said Dr. Robert Hopkins, the medical director of the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

No one wants a repeat of last flu season, but we may be on track for that. Heres what to know:

Flu season is off to a bad start in the U.K., and experts think that could happen here, too.

According to BBC reporting, experts in the U.K. predict the country will have a severe flu season, too, based on an early start to the flu season there, along with a mutation in the flu virus. This isnt good news for respiratory virus season anywhere, including in the U.S.

We do generally see similar patterns in North America, as we see in Western Europe, said Dr. Daniel Kuritzkes, the chief of the division of infectious diseases at Brigham and Womens Hospital in Boston. So, it is likely that well see a similar flu season here to whats being experienced currently in the U.K.

Health: This 1 Activity Is Great For Your Brain  And It's Extremely Simple To Do

Derek Smith, the director of the Centre for Pathogen Evolution at the University of Cambridge, told the BBC that mutations in the H3N2 flu strain are causing a fast increase in cases.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Based on the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the H3N2 strain is in the U.S., too, and is currently the most frequently reported influenza virus in the country.

It has undergone some changes and some mutations, a fairly significant number of mutations, so ... it is likely to cause a problem, said Dr. Jill Foster, a professor at the University of Minnesota Medical School.

The flu virus that is circulating does appear to be more pathogenic. It is more easily transmitted, and when transmitted, causes more severe disease, Foster said.

Health: People Say COVID Infections Are Worse This Year. Here's What Doctors Think.

And if COVID has taught us anything, its that viruses dont stay within country borders, Foster noted.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To predict the severity (or not) of flu season in the U.S., experts glean influenza data from countries in the Southern Hemisphere, where the flu season occurs during our summer months (Australia, for example, had a record high number of flu cases this year), along with European countries, where flu season starts a little earlier.

Flu season has also started early in Japan and Canada, Hopkins added. You put that together with the reports of these mutations in the H3N2 influenza that were detected back this summer, all are concerning for potentially a second severe flu season in the U.S. in a row, Hopkins explained.

Foster agreed. All of that leads you to a place of saying that it is likely that we are going to have a worse flu season.

Based on data from other countries, experts expect flu season to be particularly bad in the United States this year. KATERYNA KON/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY via Getty Images

The good news, for now, is that flu rates in the U.S. are currently low.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The CDC updates flu activity weekly, but that wasnt happening for much of the fall because of the government shutdown. Now, though, that data is back online.

Health: Air Hunger Is A Symptom Of Anxiety We Dont Talk About Nearly Enough

Individual states also track illnesses, but the level of tracking varies. When looking at state-by-state data, including in his own state of Massachusetts, flu rates are also not yet elevated, Kuritzkes said.

Hopkins agreed. Based on the city and state level surveillance ... cases appear to be fairly low and similar to the same time the last couple of seasons.

This doesnt mean theres no flu in the U.S., though. Southern states and states including Arizona and New York are starting to see a small uptick in flu cases, according to epidemiologist Caitlin Rivers Substack.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Were not seeing any surge in cases so far, which would suggest that if we are going to look like what England is looking like, therell be a lag, Kuritzkes said. In the U.S., cases dont increase too much until December and then tend to peak in January or February, with a second peak in March.

Health: COVID Cases Might Be Down, But Doctors Are Seeing An Increase In Another Respiratory Illness

Flu shots protect people from severe outcomes like hospitalization and death.

Each year, the flu vaccine is updated to offer the best possible protection against the flu strains that are expected to be dominant that season, but this new flu virus strain emerged after experts selected the strains for the current years flu vaccine, Hopkins said.

Meaning, this years flu vaccine doesnt match this new, mutated virus strain.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It is certainly concerning that a new strain has emerged that seems to be somewhat divergent from the strain against which the vaccines were selected, Kuritzkes said.

But that doesnt mean the vaccine is not important. It remains the best way to protect yourself. Even if the vaccine is not a perfect match, there are many reasons that people should get the flu vaccine if they havent done so already, Kuritzkes noted.

Boosting your flu immunity may not mean you wont get infected with the flu this winter, but if you do, its likely that the flu you get will be less severe than if youre unvaccinated, according to Kuritzkes.

Approximately 89% of children who died of flu in 2024-2025 were not fully vaccinated, which shows the importance of the protection that vaccination offers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Last flu season, only about 47% of adults received a flu shot in the U.S. Data for this year is not yet available (again, because of the shutdown), but Foster is nervous about what vaccine hesitancy could mean for shot uptake.

Theres been so much confusion and so much disarray in pushing out vaccine recommendations this year that I would not at all be surprised to see that flu vaccine uptake in this country is less this year than usual, and if it is, then were really in trouble, Foster said.

Unvaccinated people are more likely to die or end up in the hospital from flu and are more likely to have severe disease that spreads to others for longer, Foster added.

Second, even if [H3N2] is the most concerning one, there are typically several strains that circulate, Kuritzkes said. Just because the vaccine isnt a perfect match for the new strain doesnt mean it wont be for future flu strains, added Kuritzkes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While its easy to panic over headlines about an upcoming severe flu season, Hopkins said to prepare instead of panic.

Make sure that you have fever-reducers around the house, make sure that you keep plenty of fluids around the house, get some over-the-counter COVID and flu tests, so that if you are sick, you can test and let your health care professional know what you got, Hopkins explained.

There are antiviral medications your doctor can prescribe for flu (and COVID) that can help reduce the severity of your illness.

To protect yourself and others, wash your hands frequently, cough or sneeze into your sleeve  and, if you have kids, encourage them to do the same. Wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces can also protect you from the flu, along with other viruses.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lets do the things we can to reduce our risk for either giving or getting any of these viruses, Hopkins said.

Babies and older adults are most at risk for severe outcomes from the flu, so take extra care if you are around folks in these age groups, Foster said.

I think its important that we recognize were all in this together. When I think about protection against any of these viruses, I think about not only protecting myself and my family, but I also think about the people around me, Hopkins said. If we prevent illness in our community, we reduce the likelihood that were going to get ill, and we reduce the impact on our community and on our health care workers around us.

This story has been updated to reflect the most recent CDC flu data, which was originally unavailable at the time of publishing.

Related...

Read the original on HuffPost
As we continue to make strides in the development of artificial intelligence, more and more companies are proving that they have no issue in making the most of the technology. That even includes one of the most influential beverage companies in the world.

What's happening?

In early November, Coca-Cola unveiled its latest iteration of its yearly holiday commercial. The minute-long spot features an assortment of animated animals getting into the Christmas spirit as a convoy of Coca-Cola trucks barrels down various wintertime roads.

But perhaps more notable is the fact that the commercial was exclusively produced with AI. This led to what appears to be several continuity errors throughout the commercial. If you look closely enough, you can spot the lead Coca-Cola truck changing its size and even the number of tires it has multiple times.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The questionable usage of AI was broken down by Dino Burbidge, founder and head of the consulting firm Dinova. In a LinkedIn post, Burbidge didn't outright condemn Coca-Cola's use of AI. Instead, he criticized the lack of humans who may have prevented continuity errors in the commercial.

"Yeah, so the Coca-Cola 'Holidays Are Coming' 2025 ad ... for crying out loud, hire some humans who notice this stuff," quipped Burbidge.

"It's not an AI issue, it's a care, attention and pride in your work issue. If you genuinely didn't notice that no two trucks are the same, that's a worry. If you did notice and launched it anyway, that's even more worrying."

Why is Coca-Cola's use of AI important?

While the company has previously scored high marks for its festive advertisements in the past, many fans are feeling left out in the cold over Coca-Cola's use of AI. The controversial commercial seemingly gets its inspiration from a classic 1995 ad featuring real-life Coca-Cola trucks traveling through the snow.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The newest spot isn't the first time that the company has found itself in hot water over its use of AI, either. Last year, Coca-Cola faced backlash from fans after releasing an ad using Real Magic AI. The commercial was panned for its use of "soulless" AI-generated stand-ins instead of real-life actors or animated characters.

Despite the negative reviews from its 2024 holiday ad, Coca-Cola opted to try again. However, this year's commercial didn't escape the harsh criticism from fans either.

"The most profitable commercial in Pepsi's history," joked one commenter on the company's YouTube post.

"One of the richest corporations on the planet using AI should upset everyone," wrote another frustrated user.

What is Coca-Cola doing about its waste production?

Despite long being known as a main contributor to the growing amount of plastic waste in the world, Coca-Cola has taken steps to reduce its negative impact on the planet. This includes partnering with the Egyptian Ministry of Environment to launch a waste collection project aimed at clearing plastic and other trash from Egypt's vital canals.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But with its willingness to utilize AI, Coca-Cola could worsen its already significant carbon impact.

One of the biggest criticisms of AI has been the amount of energy it takes to power the technology. This often relies on the use of dirty energy sources, increasing the amount of carbon emissions and air pollution. AI data centers have also been criticized for their consumption of massive amounts of energy, which can lead to higher utility bills for consumers.



Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices  and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club.
The entrance to the State Library of Ohio. (Photo by Marty Schladen, Ohio Capital Journal.)

The State Library of Ohio got some good news as a federal agency from which they receive grant money won a battle in federal court against an executive order from President Donald Trump.

Last week, the U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island blocked Trumps order that would have dismantled the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The institute is the sole source of federal funding for libraries, according to Ohios State Librarian Mandy Knapp.

The State Library of Ohio receives funds through the institutes Library Services and Technology Act for training, administration of grant programs, and to support sharing resources through a consortium for significant cost-savings for taxpayers.

In our state, we use these funds to enhance summer reading so that our children dont lag behind academically, to conserve our culture heritage to make sure that future generations will be able to share in our collective past, as well as to implement the latest research such as the Science of Reading in our libraries, Knapp said in a statement.

The state librarian previously told the Capital Journal the loss of the federal funding would totally and utterly devastate the agency.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

The most recent grants distributed by the state library from the $5.4 million received from the institute went to programs including monthly story times for the deaf, technology for use with historical records, and digital materials for the home-bound.

In addition, the Toledo Lucas County Public Library received a grant to support the Science of Reading, and 18 rural libraries received money for public technology training.

The struck-down executive order was issued March 14, ordering the elimination of the agency all together.

After the order, the Trump administration removed the board of the institute, terminated grants from the agency and planned mass layoffs.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The American Library Association said the actions left the institute unable to fulfill its duties required by federal law and interrupted library services across the country.

Convincing a federal judge that shuttering a supposedly obscure agency would have an immediate and devastating impact on millions of Americans is no small feat, said Sam Helmick, president of the American Library Association, after the order was struck down.

Libraries also strengthen local economies by supporting jobseekers, small businesses and community learning.

While the State Library of Ohio sees the court win as a positive sign, they are still struggling due to cuts the state made in its most recent operating budget.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While previous state budgets have had separate line items for the State Library of Ohio, in the most recent state operating budget, the method of distributing state funds for the agency is through a transfer from the Public Library Fund, a fund that previously was earmarked for local public libraries outside of the state agency.

The Public Library Fund is tasked with providing funds for the State Library of Ohio, the Library for the Blind, the Ohio Public Library Information Network, the Regional Library Systems Fund, and the Ohioana Library Association, according to budget documents.

The state funds the Public Library Fund using shares of the monthly General Revenue Fund tax receipts, to the tune of 1.75% of the revenue.

In the next two fiscal years, the state library is set to receive $4.5 million in each year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

State Librarian Knapp said when the changes were announced in budget drafts that the number amounts to a cut of $245,000 in 2026 and $331,000 in 2027 compared to previous drafts of the budget.

The cuts also came as Knapp laid out the situation at the state library, where staff and health insurance costs rose, and the library facility was no longer suitable to house the State Librarys collection.

The library holds historical documents like the states founding documents as part of their conservation role with the state.

A spokesperson from the state library said the entity has evaluated the services (it) provides and determined where we should focus our resources.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As a result, the library has had to cut some services like information technology support in meeting rooms, and left an Information Services & Technology Department position open after it was recently vacated.

The library plans to monitor the federal case in case its appealed to a higher court, and the upcoming federal budget resolution, which is set to expire on Jan. 30, 2026.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
BEIJING, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for promoting the spirit of volunteer to serve the cause of building a great modern socialist country in all respects and achieving national rejuvenation.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks in a congratulatory letter sent to the third congress of the China Volunteer Service Federation. 
Fire has wrecked a derelict bungalow near a hospital.

Crews were called to Fairmile Road near Christchurch Hospital, Dorset, shortly before 19:20 GMT on Thursday.

Road closures were put in place while crews from seven stations spent two hours tackling the blaze.

No one was injured and the fire was out by 21:30. Officers returned on Friday morning to reinspect the scene.

The fire service said the bungalow had been derelict [DWFRS]

More from the BBC

Related internet links
During a Friday appearance on Fox News, former New York State Senator David Carlucci (D) called President Donald Trumps post D.C. shooting anti-immigrant rhetoric really upsetting, adding that hes passing the blame wherever possible.

On Wednesday, 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal shot two National Guard members in Washington, D.C. 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom later passed away from her injuries, while the other victim remains in critical condition.

The 29-year-old alleged shooter entered the U.S. from Afghanistan on a visa in 2021, after the U.S. pulled troops out of the country. His asylum application was granted earlier this year. On Thursday, Trump promised to permanently pause migration from all third-world countries.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Speaking to Fox News host Aishah Hasnie after she criticized former President Joe Bidens administration for allowing Afghan refugees into the country, Carlucci remarked that Trump is just passing the blame wherever possible Of course, we mourn for what happened, but weve got to make sure that we dont have just a scapegoat instead of a real policy in how we fix these problems.

Going out and saying youre going to end asylum, youre going to stop refugees from coming into our country, youre going to review 235,000 green card holders, this is something that is just so knee-jerk that it really erodes trust, he continued. Its really upsetting to see the president use this language, attacking the Governor of Minnesota, even going after Somali Refugees.

On Thursday, in a wild tirade on Truth Social, the president called Governor Tim Walz (D-MN) seriously retarded, while railing against Somali gangs who are roving the streets looking for prey in Minnesota. He went on to baselessly allege that Representative Ilhan Omar (D-MN) was in the country illegally.

The list never ends in terms of who the president can pass the blame to, continued Carlucci. But once you blame enough people, you have got to take responsibility and say what youre going to do. Just shutting the doors and kicking people out because they are from a certain country is not going to solve the problem. Its only going to make it worse.

Watch the clip above via Fox News.

The post Fox Guest Calls Trumps Rhetoric Post-DC Shooting Really Upsetting, Says Hes Passing the Blame Wherever Possible first appeared on Mediaite.
France on Friday caught one of two detainees who used bed sheets to escape from prison a day earlier after sawing through the bars of their cell, a prosecutor said.

The man was arrested south of Dijon, where the jailbreak occurred, said the eastern city's prosecutor, Olivier Caracotch.

He said the person caught was thought to be the older of the pair, a 32-year-old man accused of violence against a partner.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That would mean a 19-year-old suspected of attempted murder was still on the run.

Interior Minister Laurent Nunez congratulated police for having nabbed "one of the two individuals who escaped yesterday from the Dijon detention centre", in a message on X.

Guards noticed the two men had fled on Thursday before dawn.

The 32-year-old man had left a message in his cell, saying he had been held for "too long", the prosecutor has said. It was not immediately clear for how long he had been held.

France has some of the worst prison overcrowding in Europe, and staff unions have complained the state is neglecting normal jails as it moves narco criminals into new supermax prisons.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dijon prison, built in 1853, is in poor condition, with 311 inmates for 180 places, according to the justice ministry.

The jailbreak comes after thieves broke into the Louvre museum in Paris in broad daylight last month, making off with priceless imperial jewels.

The investigation is ongoing, with several people arrested and charged in the case.

burs-ah/ekf/jhb
French President Emmanuel Macron will visit China next week and meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping, the Elysee Palace said in a statement on Wednesday.

The three-day visit is scheduled to begin on December 3, with two stops in Beijing and Chengdu, according to the statement.

"On this occasion, major issues relating to the strategic partnership between France and China will be addressed, as well as several major international matters and areas of cooperation aimed at tackling the global challenges of our time," the statement said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team.

The state visit came as Europe scrambles to respond to the Ukraine peace plan proposed by US President Donald Trump, as well as amid mounting trade tensions between China and Europe.

Beijing's stance in the war has been causing unease in Paris as well as Brussels, both of which accuse China of supporting Russia's war machine.

France expressed its wish for China to persuade Russia to abide by UN principles as a permanent member of the UN Security Council and "in light of what Russia and China call their 'limitless friendship', which binds the two countries together," an Elysee source said during a separate briefing on Tuesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The source chose to remain anonymous, citing professional norms in France.

"We hope that China can convince Russia to put an end to the war and to engage in negotiations that respect Ukraine's fundamental rights and allow us to achieve peace and security on the European continent," the source said.

France is also championing more protectionist trade policies at the European level, advocating for tariffs on Chinese imports such as electric vehicles and steel.

Former French Economic Minister Eric Lombard said recently that free trade has been "killed" by China and the US, with Europe's multiplying tariffs highlighting this.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

China chose French cognac as its first target in its retaliation against the EU's anti-subsidy tariffs on Chinese EVs.

Paris eventually managed to negotiate a minimum price scheme, which exempted 90 per cent of its cognac export from the tariff, a positive example welcomed by both Paris and Beijing.

Indeed, despite increasing frictions between Paris and Beijing on the trade front, as the first major Western power to recognise the People's Republic of China, France has traditionally enjoyed rather good relationships with China.

China's ambassador to France told the Post in a recent exclusive interview that Beijing hopes to see Paris play a leading role in guiding Europe to become a truly independent power and help build a stable multipolar world.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Macron is also considering inviting Xi to the G7 summit next year, when France will be hosting, according to a Bloomberg report.

The Elysee Palace said in its statement that Macron will "advance an agenda of cooperation and balance in economic and trade matters", which is "an ambition that will be at the heart of France's presidency of the G7 in 2026".

Macron last visited China in 2023, while Xi repaid the compliment with a visit to France in 2024.

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.
Fox News Karl Rove could hardly contain his excitement while discussing Democratic infighting on Thanksgiving.

After being asked about the rebellion against Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Rove said the following:

Well, I think there are two things going on here. One is the generational change that is alluded to by Seth Moulton and Cory Booker. And this is natural, I mean, this always happens. The younger crowd wants more responsibility, and if you have these older members of the Senate and the House, they draw younger competitors who want to start their political careers. But theres-, thats normal. But what is not normal is the effort by some on the left of the Democratic Party to go after Chuck Schumer on ideological grounds and to oppose, deliberately oppose the choice of the so-called Democratic establishment in some of these primaries. Senators, a number of senators led by Elizabeth Warren, and [Chris] Van Hollen of Maryland, and [Chris] Murphy of Connecticut have organized a group they call the Fight Club, and they are they are aiming to nominate the most left-wing member of the of the primary contest in critical states like Michigan, and Minnesota, and Maine. And if they do so, the beneficiaries will be the Republican candidates because these are battleground states, these are gonna be battleground races, and the notion that the more-, the extreme left-wing candidate you can nominate is gonna have a better chance of carrying those seats is ridiculous.

He went on to say that whats amazing to me is is that Schumer is the most effective fundraiser the Democrats have on the other side. And what theyre attempting to say is We want to replace the guy who in the meantime we expect to raise the tens of millions of dollars that are necessary in order to beat the Republicans in these battleground states. Sort of a weird message in there. But its fun for Republicans to watch, because none of this is is in the short-run constructive.

Watch above via Fox News.

The post Fun for Republicans! Fox News Karl Rove Delights in Democratic Infighting first appeared on Mediaite.
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier became the first German head of state to visit Guernica in Spain on Friday, acknowledging his country's "historical responsibility" for the destruction of the town.

"We acknowledge it. And we feel an obligation to stand up for peace, democracy and against violence today," he said during a visit to the town in Basque region. The bombing of Guernica - spelled Gernika in the Basque language - by German fighter planes in 1937 was a "brutal crime," he said.

German bombers largely destroyed the town during the Spanish Civil War, as part of their support for General Francisco Franco. Hundreds of civilians died.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Accompanied by King Felipe VI, Steinmeier laid a wreath for the victims while a bell from a church that was also bombed rang six times.

Steinmeier said: "I bow to the victims and our sympathy goes out to the survivors, their families and all those for whom the wounds of that time are still open and have not healed."

Both heads of state spoke at length with two citizens who were 6 years old at the time and survived the airstrikes.

Planes from the German Condor Legion attacked the militarily insignificant small town on April 26, 1937, and destroyed three quarters of it.

Estimates of the number of casualties vary between 300 and 1,500.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It was the first massive bombing raid on the civilian population of an entire town in European history.

The devastation prompted Pablo Picasso to create his famous painting "Guernica," which Steinmeier and his wife viewed on their first day in Madrid.

During his speech at the state banquet on Wednesday evening, Steinmeier acknowledged that "Germans committed terrible crimes in Guernica."

During the Spanish Civil War, the Nazis in Germany and Fascist Italy supported the putschists under Franco.

Felipe had already thanked Steinmeier for travelling to Guernica in a speech at a state banquet on the first evening of Steinmeier's visit. He described it as a "gesture of great symbolic significance and reconciliation."
President Trump and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. held a press conference strongly urging against Tylenol (acetaminophen) use during pregnancy.

They associated its use with the development of autism and other childhood neurodevelopmental disorders. Trump rambled off script, declaring that we found the cause of autism, repeatedly advising against the use of Tylenol during pregnancy, and saying, just tough it out. He continued by stating that babies should also not receive Tylenol and then ventured into questioning current childhood vaccination schedules.

The press conference was chaotic and reckless, resulting in misinformation and confusion. Trumps conclusion that Tylenol use during pregnancy was very high risk and strongly associated with autism goes well beyond what the scientific evidence supports. Studies have found an inconsistent association, and no studies support a causative relationship.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Association is not causation. Its impossible to conduct prospective placebo-controlled studies (the gold standard for demonstrating causation) for Tylenol use during pregnancy for obvious ethical reasons. All studies are retrospective and observational.

Observational studies are burdened with confounding variables that may make an association appear causative. For example, the senior author of an April 2024 Journal of the American Medical Association study, widely considered the definitive research on Tylenol use during pregnancy, offers this scenario: Eating ice cream in the summer is statistically associated with the risk of drowning. Its actually hot weather that increases both ice cream consumption and swimming (which would increase the likelihood of drowning).

Tylenol packages are seen in a pharmacy in Houston, Texas, on September 23, 2025. US President Donald Trump on September 22, 2025 urged pregnant people not to take Tylenol over an unproven link to autism, and urged major changes to the standard vaccines given to babies.

Similarly, conditions that prompt Tylenol use, such as fever and infection during pregnancy, have been linked to autism and other neurodevelopmental conditions if left untreated. These could plausibly be the actual causative factors.

Observational studies can indicate causation, but only when there is an enormous amount of irrefutable evidence over time. Smoking causing lung cancer is an example. Tylenol use during pregnancy is very far from this level of evidence. A recent review in Environmental Health of 46 studies demonstrated conflicting results regarding an association. Some studies finding an association were criticized for a lack of scientific rigor and study design.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The aforementioned JAMA article was a Swedish study of 2.4 million children over 24 years. The study actually demonstrated an association between Tylenol use and autism, but that association disappeared when applying sibling controls who were not exposed to Tylenol during pregnancy. The sibling controls accounted for genetic and other environmental factors. Additionally, no escalating dose-response outcome was found, as would be expected with a causative agent. A Japanese study of over 200,000 children with sibling controls also yielded the same conclusions.

Federal health officials selectively cite and misinterpret studies to support Kennedys agenda. Its noteworthy that the American Psychiatric Association, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and others consider judicious use of Tylenol safe during pregnancy.

Despite the press conferences rhetoric and a safety warning to be added to Tylenols label, the Federal Food and Drug Administrations recommendation is that the lowest effective dose be used for the shortest possible duration. Good advice for most medications used during pregnancy. Nothing new here.

Under pressure, Kennedy has since admitted that he doesnt have sufficient evidence to support a causative link  yet.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Women should feel safe prudently using Tylenol during pregnancy. Its one of the few options available to treat pain and fever. Consult your physician for advice and cast a critical eye on whatever Kennedy or Trump may advise medically.

A former resident of South Bend, Dr. Richard Feldman is an Indianapolis family physician and is a past Indiana state health commissioner. Email him at richarddfeldman@gmail.com.

This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: Getting beyond the confusion, misinformation on Tylenol | Opinion
Republican Rep. Glenn Thompson (Pa.), the Congressional Scouting Caucuss House co-chair, called Defense Secretary Pete Hegseths proposal to cut ties with Scouting America nearsighted in a statement to The Hill.

As co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Scouting Caucus, I can think of no better recruitment tool for our military than the lessons acquired through Scouting, he said. It would be nearsighted to uproot this decades long partnership.

In a draft memo to Congress first reported by NPR, Hegseth proposed cutting ties with Scouting America  formerly known as Boy Scouts of America  and said it has become an organization that attacks boy-friendly spaces.

Hegseth reportedly criticized the organization for being genderless and promoting diversity, equity and inclusion principles in the memo, which has not yet been sent to lawmakers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The organization once endorsed by President Theodore Roosevelt no longer supports the future of American boys, Hegseth wrote.

He called for the Pentagon to pull logistical and medical aid to the National Jamboree, a flagship event hosted by Scouting America around every four years that brings up to 20,000 Scouts to West Virginia. He also said Scout meetings would no longer be allowed to take place at military facilities in the U.S. and abroad.

Scouting America said it was surprised and deeply saddened by the potential policy change, given the organizations strong relationship with the U.S. military for over a century. It also pushed back against Hegseths claim in the memo that the organization was no longer a meritocracy.

This view is clearly uninformed, the organization said. Badges and ranks are not given, they are earned. Just ask any Eagle Scout.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Young men and young women alike thrive in Scouting, the organization continued. Scouts wear an American flag on their sleeves and swear a duty to God and country.

The Congressional Scouting Caucus  which includes several GOP representatives and is co-chaired in the House by Thompson and Rep. Sanford Bishop (D-Ga.)  supports Scouting America on Capitol Hill. Thompson and Bishop introduced a resolution earlier this year celebrating the organizations 115th anniversary since its incorporation.

Scouting helps young men and women build character and confidence, while attaining skills that will help them succeed in all aspects of life, Thompson said in a press release announcing the resolutions introduction. I have been involved with Scouting for more than 50 years, including time spent as Scout, Eagle Scout, Scoutmaster, and Distinguished Eagle.

He added that the organization had a profound impact on the lives of his sons and grandsons. Lessons taken from Scouting have helped young people from all walks of life become leaders, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
- - -

Correction: A previous version of this article incorrectly said Gramma lived through the tenure of 20 presidents. The tortoise lived through the tenure of more than 20 presidents.

Subscribe to The Post Most newsletter for the most important and interesting stories from The Washington Post.

- - -

San Diegos Queen of the Zoo has died. Her name was Gramma, and she was a Galapagos tortoise whose 141 years of existence (give or take) included more than 20 presidents, two world wars and a pair of pandemics.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But to her caretakers at the San Diego Zoo, where she died Thursday after nearly a century in residence, Gramma was a sweet and shy tortoise who enjoyed romaine lettuce and cactus fruit.

She quietly touched the lives of countless people over nearly a century in San Diego as an incredible ambassador for reptile conservation worldwide, the zoo said.

She was an inadvertent witness to periods of rapid change. Cars, computers, the internet and artificial intelligence all emerged during Grammas life. Twelve states joined the United States during her lifetime. Born in the final days of Chester A. Arthurs presidency, she turned 60 in the midst of World War II.

But according to tortoise experts, Gramma probably spent the first two to three years after her Nov. 15, 1884, hatching quietly - living under a rock in Ecuadors Galapagos Islands.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There she would have hidden from hawks and other predators while her shell formed, said James Gibbs, vice president of science and conservation for the Galapagos Conservancy, a nonprofit that protects and works to revitalize the tropical archipelago.

Roughly 350,000 giant tortoises like Gramma roamed the Galapagos Islands before the 1800s, when whalers arrived and began relying on tortoise meat and oil, Gibbs said.

The effects were devastating.

Three of the 15 subspecies of the Galapagos tortoise are now extinct, and the remainder are considered vulnerable or endangered, according to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In the 1920s and 1930s, conservationists such as the New York Aquariums first director, Charles Haskins Townsend, went to the Galapagos to save the species.

It was during a Townsend expedition in either 1928 or 1931 - recordkeeping was poor, Gibbs said - that Gramma was captured and brought back to the Bronx.

Hoping to establish insurance colonies across the country to rebuild the population, Townsend sent tortoises to zoos across the country. He sent eight to San Diego. One was Gramma.

According to the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, which keeps a database of zoo animals, Gramma arrived in San Diego in 1930.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She would have been little, said Joe Flanagan, chief veterinarian at the Houston Zoo. At the time, Gramma was only a third of the way into her life.

But it took a few more decades before conservationists learned how to breed the rare tortoises.

In the late 1960s and early 1970s, conservationists launched a captive breeding program in an attempt to save the species. At the time, he said, there were fewer than 6,000 of the tortoises worldwide.

Some were repatriated back to the Galapagos. The most famous was a fellow San Diego Zoo denizen named, appropriately, Diego. He sired upward of 800 children before retiring in 2020.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There are now 30,000 of the giant tortoises worldwide, Gibbs said - with a third of them attributable to the captive breeding program.

That is really one of the most successful species reintroductions of all time, Flanagan said.

With her species saved from possible extinction, Gramma lived life as a local celebrity in San Diego. Children used to write poems about the zoos tortoises and ride them.

In 2010, the Los Angeles Times wrote about a million-dollar upgrade to the San Diego Zoos Reptile Mesa aimed at making the enclosures more comfortable for the animals.

The article describes many of the giant residents. One is stubborn, another is aggressive. Gramma is also described: As for connubial activity, Gramma (No. 4), thought to be between 120 and 130 years old, is the most accommodating of the females.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Making it to 141 years shows she was loved well, Gibbs said. In the wild, he said, every 10,000th giant tortoise lives to 200 years old.

In captivity, the tortoises dont have to worry about predators and eat a wider variety of foods. Thats because what they would eat in the wild - grass - cant be bought at the grocery store.

Theyre essentially a horse with a shell, Flanagan said. They eat grass and leafy greens.

Lettuces, kale, collards, mustard greens, spinach, endive, dandelion greens and cabbage are all on the menu - which to a tortoise, is decadent, Flanagan said. Thats like trying to survive on candy if youre a human being, he added, noting that the reptiles go crazy for papaya.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But even the cushy confines of captivity cant stop the ravages of time.

As is common for animals of her size and age, Gramma had developed an ongoing bone conditions related to advanced age, according to the San Diego Zoo. They became severe enough that her caretakers decided to euthanize her.

Gramma is remembered as a thread that has connected generations of employees, guests and conservationists, the zoo said. She went from appearing in black-and-white photos to being a social media maven.

It was a privilege to care for such a remarkable tortoise, the zoo wrote.

Related Content

46 gifts were giving (and wishing for) this year

Retired judges warn that the rule of law is unraveling

A Wyoming county fair brings back pig wrestling  but with no men allowed
The State Comptroller's Office has released guidelines for the Texas Education Freedom Accounts. This program is also referred to as school choice or school vouchers, and has stirred up controversy.

It's funded through $1B taxpayer dollars, and while proponents say it gives families the choice to pick the best education for their child, critics have said it takes money away from already underfunded and struggling public school systems.

This program is open to students in pre-K through high school. Standard students who wish to attend a state-approved private school can receive approximately $10,800 per child, per year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Students with disabilities or additional learning needs must have their individual education program, or IEP, on file with the school district to be eligible for up to $30,000 per student, per year

And homeschooled children can get up to $2,000 per child, per year.

SEE ALSO: Private school vouchers are now law in Texas. Here's how they will work

State law dictates that priority will be given to children who have siblings already in the program and based on income and the federal poverty line. If more students enroll than funding allows, a lottery will be instituted.

Eyewitness News previously reported that the funds would probably fund around 90,000 students, even though the Texas Education Agency estimated in 2024 that over 5 million school-aged children live in Texas.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The first important enrollment date comes for private schools and vendors who want to accept voucher students, and is part of the one billion dollars the state is pouring into it. The State Comptroller's office says schools and vendors can start signing on through Odyssey on Dec. 9. Odyssey is the company the state selected to run the voucher lottery and operate a platform that allows families to spend the money awarded to them by the state.

The second important date comes for families, which is Feb. 4. That's when families can start signing up students. The State Comptroller said this gives the state and families ample time to make decisions ahead of the 2026-27 school year

The State Comptroller said schools that wish to apply for the program must have a Texas location and have been accredited for at least two years, but this applies to schools both in and outside of Texas, so in theory, a program accredited outside of Texas could build a campus in the state this year and still be eligible.

SEE ALSO: ABC13 obtains exclusive HISD student enrollment records for 2025-26 school year

The state is also dictating that private schools wishing to be a part of the program will have to administer an assessment to voucher students in grades 3 through 12

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The program will be monitored by the State Comptroller's office, which will partner with a private group to audit the program at least once a year.

State education groups pushed the state to be more transparent about how families were spending money and where, though our partners at the Houston Chronicle note the state rejected those ideas.

For more news updates, follow Lileana Pearson on Facebook, X and Instagram.
JERUSALEM, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Six Israeli soldiers were wounded overnight in a clash in the southern Syrian village of Beit Jinn, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a statement on Friday.

Among the wounded, three are in serious condition, it said.

Israel's state-owned Kan TV News said the two suspects had previously planted explosives and were involved in launching projectiles at Israel.

The IDF claimed that the suspects had advanced attacks against Israeli civilians and were taken into custody. It added that the wounded soldiers were evacuated to a hospital, while several local militants were killed. 
Guinea-Bissau's deposed President Umaro Sissoco Embalo has arrived in neighbouring Senegal following his release by the military forces who toppled his government this week, Senegal's authorities have announced.

It follows negotiations by the regional West African bloc Ecowas to secure his transfer amid rising tensions in Guinea-Bissau.

Senegal's foreign ministry said in a statement that Embalo had landed in the country "safe and sound" on a chartered military flight late on Thursday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The military in Guinea-Bissau has already sworn in a new transitional leader, Gen Horta N'Tam, who will rule the coup-prone country for a year.

Wednesday's coup came a day before authorities were due to announce the provisional results of a presidential and parliamentary election.

The military has suspended the electoral process and blocked the release of the results.

It said it was acting to thwart a plot by unnamed politicians who had "the support of a well-known drug baron" to destabilise the country, and imposed a night-time curfew.

Sandwiched between Senegal and Guinea, the coup-prone country is known as a drug-trafficking hub where the military has been influential since it gained independence from Portugal in 1974.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A mother of three told the BBC it was not the first military takeover she had lived through, nonetheless it had came as a surprise as people were expecting to hear about the outcome of the election, which had an estimated voter turnout of more than 65%.

"We heard gunfire. We ran away. We tried to pack our bags to go home," she said.

Another resident of the capital, Bissau, said he was unhappy about the situation.

"This doesn't help anyone. Because it puts the country into chaos," Mohamed Sylla told the BBC.

But reactions have been mixed, with some residents praising the army and hoping for an orderly transition.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I am not against the military regime as long as they improve the living conditions in the country," Suncar Gassama told the BBC.

"Guinea-Bissau is a very rich country where all the conditions exist for a good life. I cannot understand why Guineans always have violence in their minds and are shooting everywhere. People must fight for the establishment of democracy."

Both Embalo and his closest rival Fernando Dias had claimed victory in Sunday's presidential poll.

Dias was supported by former Prime Minister Domingos Pereira, whose PAIGC party, the liberation movement that ended Portuguese colonial rule, had been barred from fielding a candidate.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Government sources earlier told the BBC that Dias, Pereira and Interior Minister Botche Cande had also been detained.

The military junta has banned public protests and "all disturbing actions of peace and stability in the country".

Tension remained high in Bissau on Thursday, with most shops and markets closed as soldiers patrolled the streets, news agency AFP reported.

Earlier that day, Gen N'Tam, Guinea-Bissau army's chief of staff, was named the country's new leader for a period of one year.

He said in a speech that the military had acted "to block operations that aimed to threaten our democracy".

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Shortly after the swearing-in, the military reopened land, air and sea borders that were shut when it announced the coup.

Some local civil society groups have accused Embalo of masterminding a "simulated coup" against himself with the help of the military, saying it was a ruse to block election results from coming out in case he lost.

Dias made similar claims, saying it was an "organised coup". He told AFP that he considered himself the president-elect of Guinea-Bissau and believed he won roughly 52% of the vote.

Embalo has not responded to the allegations.

The 53-year-old leader has said he has survived multiple coup attempts during his time in office. However, his critics have previously accused him of fabricating crises in order to crack down on dissent.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He dissolved parliament after one such coup attempt in December 2023 and the country has not had a sitting legislature since then.

Persistent political infighting had left Embalo's administration increasingly exposed, explains Beverly Ochieng, West Africa analyst at the intelligence firm Control Risks.

"Over the course of Embalo's presidency, the legislature, judiciary and several state institutions have either been rendered non-operational or are functioning well below capacity," she told the BBC.

Security has been increased on the streets of Bissau [AFP via Getty Images]

Political analyst Ryan Cummings said the president's previous actions had fuelled suspicions that the coup attempt was orchestrated to pave the way for his return to power under military oversight.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

However, he told the BBC it was also "highly plausible" that the armed forces had acted independently to prevent a deeper political stalemate.

It was Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio, the current Ecowas chair, who had contacted the Guinea-Bissau military on Wednesday to secure assurance for Embalo's protection, according to Sierra Leone's Foreign Minister Timothy Musa Kabba.

When asked about Embalo physical health on the BBC's Newsday programme on Friday, the minister declined to comment but said the priority was ensuring his safe evacuation from Guinea-Bissau.

Ecowas leaders have suspended Guinea-Bissau from all decision-making bodies until constitutional order is restored. In a statement, the bloc ordered the military to return to the barracks, calling its actions a "grave violation of Guinea-Bissau's constitutional order".

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The African Union has also condemned the coup.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a statement that he was "deeply concerned" about the situation in Guinea-Bissau, calling for an "immediate and unconditional restoration of constitutional order".

Guinea-Bissau has witnessed at least nine coups or attempted coups over the last five decades.

Additional reporting by Wycliffe Muia, Yemisi Adegoke and Natasha Booty

You may also be interested in:

[Getty Images/BBC]

Go to BBCAfrica.com for more news from the African continent.

Follow us on Twitter @BBCAfrica, on Facebook at BBC Africa or on Instagram at bbcafrica

BBC Africa podcasts
Senegal's prime minister and Nigeria's former president have both said they believe the ousting of Guinea-Bissau's president this week was staged.

Umaro Sissoco Embalo's apparent removal by the military on Wednesday came a day before authorities were due to announce election results.

The military has since suspended the electoral process and blocked the release of the results, insisting it thwarted a plot to destabilise the politically unstable country.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Senegal's PM Ousmane Sonko and Nigeria's ex-leader Goodluck Jonathan did not provide evidence to support their claim that the coup was fabricated. Embalo has previously faced accusations of using crises to quash dissent.

Some local civil society groups have accused Embalo of masterminding a "simulated coup" against himself with the help of the military, saying it was a ruse to block election results from coming out in case he lost.

Embalo has not responded to the allegations.

The 53-year-old former president arrived in neighbouring Senegal on a chartered military flight late on Thursday following his release by the military forces who toppled his government.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Nigeria's Jonathan, who led a team of election observers from the West African Elders Forum to Guinea-Bissau, said the incident "was not a coup".

He described it as a "ceremonial coup", questioning the events that preceded it and why it was Embalo who first announced his own overthrow. The latter phoned French TV station France 24 and said: "I have been deposed."

Jonathan contrasted this with how other leaders in the region were ousted in recent coups.

Meanwhile, Senegal's Sonko told lawmakers that "what happened in Guinea-Bissau was a sham".

Both men have demanded the results of the presidential election be released.

Gen Horta N'Tam has been proclaimed Guinea-Bissau's transitional president [Reuters]

Their statements add to opposition claims in Guinea-Bissau that the coup was contrived, though no-one has so far presented evidence to support this.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Embalo has said he has survived multiple coup attempts during his time in office - though critics have previously accused him of fabricating crises in order to crack down on dissent.

He dissolved Guinea-Bissau's parliament after one attempted coup in December 2023 and the country has not had a sitting legislature since then.

On Friday, Guinea-Bissau's transitional leader Gen Horta N'Tam appointed Ilidio Vieira Te, previously the finance minister, as the new prime minister.

Additionally, the African Union suspended Guinea-Bissau's membership on Friday because of the unconstitutional military takeover, AFP reports.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The West African bloc Ecowas took a similar action, while urging the military to return to the barracks.

Guinea-Bissau is a coup-prone West African nation which is also strained by drug trafficking.

The military said they were taking power to thwart a plot by unnamed politicians who had "the support of a well-known drug baron" to destabilise the country.

A mother of three told the BBC that it was not the first military takeover she had lived through, but had nonetheless come as a surprise as people were expecting to hear about the outcome of the election, which had an estimated voter turnout of more than 65%.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"We heard gunfire. We ran away. We tried to pack our bags to go home," she said.

Another resident of the capital, Bissau, said he was unhappy about the situation.

"This doesn't help anyone because it puts the country into chaos," Mohamed Sylla told the BBC.

But reactions have been mixed, with some residents praising the army and hoping for an orderly transition.

"I am not against the military regime as long as they improve the living conditions in the country," Suncar Gassama told the BBC.
After a powerful earthquake struck outside Bangladesh's crowded capital Dhaka on November 21, images were shared in posts falsely claiming they show buildings destroyed by the 5.5-magnitude tremor. The buildings were in fact damaged during devastating quakes in Nepal in April 2015, Haiti in August 2021, and Myanmar in March 2025 and shown in news reports at the time.

"Buildings damaged in the earthquake at North Badda," reads the Bengali-language caption of a Facebook photo shared on November 21, 2025, after a 5.5-magnitude earthquake struck outside Dhaka (archived link).

The photo, which was shared more than 3,200 times, shows a partially collapsed two-storey building.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A similar Facebook post shared on the same day shows an aerial view of damage to adjacent buildings alongside a caption claiming it was taken in Dhaka after the quake.

More images of damaged buildings were shared in another Facebook post on the same day, with a Bengali-language caption that reads: "Today's earthquake has caused the collapse of a garment factory building in Sreepur, Gazipur. Hundreds of people have died and many workers have been seriously injured."

The same photos were also shared across social media in similar Facebook and X posts after the November 21 tremor, which killed at least 10 people and injured more than 300.

Two minor tremors hit the country the following day, sparking panic across the country of 170 million people.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While the earthquake caused widespread destruction with at least 14 buildings damaged and a fire breaking out at a power station, the circulating photos do not show the quake's impact.

They in fact show the aftermath of tremors in different countries.

Haiti

A reverse image search on Google found the first falsely shared photo had previously been used in an Al Jazeera report from August 14, 2021 about a deadly 7.2-magnitude quake in Haiti that reduced buildings to rubble (archived link).

"Buildings destroyed following the 7.2 magnitude earthquake in Les Cayes," reads the photo caption, referring to a city in Haiti.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The photo is credited to the Associated Press (AP), and was also used by the Reuters news agency (archived link). The AP also published another photo of the building from a different angle (archived link).

Screenshot comparison of the falsely shared photo (left) and the AP photo from August 2021 (right)

Haitian authorities said more than 2,000 people were killed in the August 14 quake, which directly affected nearly 600,000 people (archived link).

Nepal

A separate reverse image search of the second falsely shared image found it was used as the thumbnail for a YouTube video published on a verified Storyful channel on April 30, 2015 titled, "Drone Footage Following Nepal Earthquake" (archived link).

The Guardian newspaper also published a photo of the same buildings on the same day as part of a report about the devastating 7.8-magnitude quake in Nepal that killed almost 9,000 people and left millions homeless (archived link).

Screenshot comparison of the falsely shared image (left) and the same visuals used in a YouTube video in April 2015 (right)

Myanmar

The third falsely shared image was traced to Indian news site Manatelegu, which used the collage of damaged buildings in a March 29, 2025 report titled, "Myanmar Earthquake Triggers Crisis" (archived link).

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The shallow 7.7-magnitude quake killed nearly 3,800 people and destroyed swathes of homes and businesses (archived here and here).

Screenshot comparison of the falsely shared images (left) and the collage used in the Manatelegu report (right)

The photos were also posted separately on the Instagram account of The Guwahati Times on March 28 (archived link).

The buildings were captured from different angles by Reuters, with their captions saying they were located in the central city of Mandalay (archived here and here).

AFP has previously debunked posts that misrepresented old photos and videos of natural disasters.
The National Weather Service warns that travelers should be cautious headed home from Thanksgiving this weekend, as heavy snowfall is predicted to hit Indiana.

With temperatures remaining near or below freezing, the NWS in Indianapolis predicts that a winter storm will hit most of Indiana beginning Saturday and continuing into the early hours of Sunday.

"Starting during the mid-morning hours tomorrow, around 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., we're going to be expecting some pretty significant impacts to the Indianapolis area, especially to the north of us," said Andrew White, meteorologist for the National Weather Service of Indianapolis.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The NWS forecast calls for 2 to 5 inches of snow in Indianapolis, with snowfall predictions increasing northward. South Bend could receive 10 to 14 inches.

Confidence is increasing in moderate snowfall north of I-70 Saturday and Saturday night...with lighter accumulations most likely for points south. Snowfall totals will depend on how fast snow mixes with or changes to light rain Saturday evening. #INwx pic.twitter.com/qpQcPJBilk  NWS Indianapolis (@NWSIndianapolis) November 28, 2025

"Snowfall totals will depend on how fast snow mixes with or changes to light rain Saturday evening," NWS Indianapolis said in a social media post.

Some of the uncertainty regarding Saturday's snowfall for Indianapolis stems from weather models showing a transition area over the city, as warmer air from Southern Indiana collides with the colder air from Northern Indiana.

However, NWS meteorologists are confident that areas north of Indianapolis see significant snowfall.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Conditions are going to get much worse the further north you go," White said. "Traveling along I-69 or I-65 north of Indianapolis is going to get increasingly difficult through the day, especially as you get into the northern portion of the state or Illinois."

A winter storm this weekend will bring accumulating snow Saturday and Saturday night, with greatest travel impacts near and north of I-70, focused during the afternoonand into evening hours when snow should taper to brief light rain for central and southern counties. #INwx pic.twitter.com/2624kL6hh0  NWS Indianapolis (@NWSIndianapolis) November 28, 2025

For people planning to travel through the northern corridor of Indiana, NWS Indianapolis recommends either heading home Friday, while the roads are clear, or pushing their drives to Sunday.

Are the roads safe to drive: Are the roads bad in Indiana on Black Friday? Check travel advisories here

NWS Winter Storm Watch for Central and Northern Indiana

The National Weather Service of Indianapolis has declared a winter storm watch for areas above I-70 from Friday night into Sunday afternoon.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

NWS Indianapolis predicts the region will see total snow accumulations between 3 and 6 inches possible.

The counties affected are Carroll, Warren, Tippecanoe, Clinton, Howard, Fountain, Montgomery, Boone, Tipton, Hamilton, Madison, Delaware, Randolph, Vermillion, Parke, Putnam, Hendricks, Marion, Hancock, Henry, Vigo and Clay.

National Weather Service Indianapolis forecast

Friday: Sunny, with a high near 34. West-northwest wind 8 to 10 mph.

Friday night: Cloudy, near 22. Calm wind.

Saturday: Snow. High near 36. Light southeast wind increasing to 8 to 13 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 22 mph. The chance of precipitation is 90%. Snow accumulation of 1 to 3 inches possible.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Saturday Night: Rain and snow. Low around 29. Southeast wind 11 to 13 mph becoming southwest after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 24 mph. The chance of precipitation is 100%. New precipitation amounts between a quarter and half of an inch are possible.

Sunday: Snow, mainly before 7 a.m. High near 33. West wind around 14 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. The chance of precipitation is 80%.

Sunday Night: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 19. West-northwest wind 3 to 8 mph.

Monday: Mostly cloudy, with a high near 30. Light and variable wind.

Monday Night: A 40 percent chance of snow. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 22. Light northeast wind.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Tuesday: A 20 percent chance of snow before 1 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 29. Calm wind becoming north northwest around 6 mph in the afternoon.

Tuesday Night: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 17. Light and variable wind.

Wednesday: Partly sunny, with a high near 33.

Wednesday Night: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 23.

Thursday: Mostly cloudy, with a high near 32.

Indianapolis weather radar

Weather travel advisories

Weather info you need

 Indiana Weather Alerts: Warnings, Watches and Advisories.

 Indiana power outage map: How to check your status.

 Internet outages: How to track them.

 What you should and shouldn't do when the power is out.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

 Your neighbor left their pet outside. Who you should call.

Where to report power outages and downed lines

AES Indiana customers: 317-261-8111

Duke Energy customers: 1-800-343-3525

How to report downed traffic signals or tree limbs blocking a road

If you encounter a downed traffic signal or a limb blocking a roadway, contact the Mayor's Action Center at 317-327-4622 or online at RequestIndy.gov. When calling after hours, press "2" to be connected.

Indianapolis and Indiana road conditions

Check road conditions, including road closures, crashes and live webcams using Indiana's online Trafficwise map at 511in.org, or visit our gridlock guide page for live traffic cams and more.

INDOT's CARS Program provides information about road conditions, closures and width and weight restrictions. The website has a color-coded map of Indiana's highways and highlights hazardous road conditions and travel delays.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The interactive map also shows road work warnings, closures, roadway restrictions and other information helpful to drivers.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Heavy snow coming to Indiana, NWS says. Here's Indianapolis forecast
The Interstate 94 East-West corridor expansion project, which started Nov. 3 and will cover a 3.5-mile stretch of the freeway between 16th and 70th streets on Milwaukee's west side, is expected to cost $1.7 billion.

How is it getting funded?

A majority of the money will be coming from the federal government.

That's according to Wisconsin Department of Transportation spokesperson Trevor Fannon, who said that 58% of the total project funding comes from the federal government, with 40% from the state and the remaining 2% "from bond and local sources."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The project, expected to take eight years to complete, will redo aging roads, widen the freeway from three to four lanes in both direction, and redesign the Stadium Interchange to a diverging diamond interchange.

Here's everything else we know about the I-94 expansion, from the project's goals to the lawsuit aiming to stop it:

How long will construction last?

Construction is scheduled to last from 2025 to 2028 along the "West Leg" section of I-94, which runs from 70th Street to Zablocki Drive, west of the Stadium Interchange.

That's the project's first section and will include lane closures.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Some construction will also begin in late 2025 on St. Paul Avenue and 27th Street intersecting the interstate, east of the Stadium Interchange.

The "East Leg" section running from 35th Street to 17th Street east of the Stadium Interchange is scheduled for construction from 2028 to 2030.

Work on the Stadium Interchange will begin in 2029 and is to finish in 2033.

One family and six businesses had to relocate to make way for the I-94 project, according to WisDOT. The agency gave financial assistance to those it displaced.

What are the project's goals?

WisDOT said the I-94 East-West project is necessary to repair highway infrastructure built in the early 1960s.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"The corridor is nearing the end of its useful life cycle," the agency said in an overview of the project. "Reconstructing the corridor with the approved plan will ensure that I-94 serves the economy of Southeastern Wisconsin for decades to come."

Widening the corridor from three to four lanes in each direction will improve safety and reduce congestion, WisDOT and other supporters of the project said.

Critics of the project said the corridor could be reconstructed without adding more lanes. Expanding the highway will result in more pollution and disproportionately hurt people of color living near the highway, they said.

In August 2024, a group of activist organizations, including the Milwaukee Inner-City Congregations Allied for Hope and the Sierra Club, filed a civil rights lawsuit challenging the I-94 lane expansion.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The lawsuit said WisDOT failed to properly analyze potential negative environmental and transit equity impacts the project would have on residents living near the interstate. The department has denied those claims.

What is the status of the lawsuit against the project?

A Ramp to Close sign is seen entering westbound on Interstate 94 from N General Mitchell Blvd on Friday October 24, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Road closures are planned along the first phase of construction, the West Leg, on I-94 between 70th Street and Zablocki Drive as part of the interstates expansion project.

The lawsuit challenging I-94's expansion is still pending in U.S. District Court.

The plaintiffs said widening I-94 benefits commuters from the suburbs over Black and brown residents living near the interstate, who may not own a car but will be hurt by more pollution and other environmental hazards brought by the project.

Dennis Grzezinski, an attorney representing the plaintiffs, told CBS 58 Oct. 16 the lawsuit doesn't prevent construction on the West Leg because WisDOT owns land near that section of the project.

What's the history of the project?

The initial version of the project was proposed by then-Republican Gov. Scott Walker, but was canceled in 2017 after the state failed to pay its share of the cost.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Gov. Tony Evers, a Democrat, revived the project in 2020 with support from the Republican-controlled state Legislature. In October, Evers approved $121 million for construction on the West Leg section.

What are its most notable changes?

Cars are seen driving on Interstate 94 from Zablocki Drive on Friday October 24, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Road closures are planned along the first phase of construction, the West Leg, on I-94 between 70th Street and Zablocki Drive as part of the interstates expansion project.

In addition to the expansion from six to eight lanes, the reconstructed highway will turn the Stadium Interchange into a diverging diamond interchange.

A diverging diamond interchange directs vehicles to briefly cross over onto the opposite side of the road, with a pair of traffic signals to control the flow of traffic. WisDOT said this design would save around $80 million in construction costs compared to alternatives.

Though studies have shown diverging diamonds generally improve road safety, the agency projected that the new Stadium Interchange will see a greater number of crashes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Diverging diamond interchanges primarily increase safety by removing left turns against oncoming traffic on surface streets, but the current Stadium Interchange doesn't involve surface streets.

Hawley Road interchange will be dramatically different

The project will also rebuild the Hawley Road Interchange as a half-interchange. Access to and from the half-interchange will come only from the west.

The section of Hawley Road near I-94 will include trail improvements for cyclists and pedestrians, including a new access point to the Hank Aaron State Trail near 64th Street and a connection between the Hank Aaron State Trail and Oak Leaf Trail.

Construction on the Hawley Road Interchange will begin in late 2025 and is expected to finish in 2028.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Here's how the Interstate 94 expansion in Milwaukee will be funded
MINNEAPOLIS (AP)  The production lines at Indeed Brewing moved quickly, the cans filling not with beer, but with THC-infused seltzer. The product, which features the compound that gets cannabis users high, has been a lifeline at Indeed and other craft breweries as alcohol sales have fallen in recent years.

But that boom looks set to come to a crashing halt. Buried in the bill that ended the federal government shutdown this month was a provision to ban those drinks, along with other impairing beverages and snacks made from hemp, which have proliferated across the country in recent years. Now the $24 billion hemp industry is scrambling to save itself before the provision takes effect in November 2026.

Its a big deal," said Ryan Bandy, Indeed's chief business officer. "It would be a mess for our breweries, for our industry, and obviously for a lot of people who like these things.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Here's what to know about the looming ban on impairing products derived from hemp.

Congress opened the door in 2018

Marijuana and hemp are the same species. Marijuana is cultivated for high levels of THC in its flowers. Low-THC hemp is grown for its sturdy fibers, food or wellness products. Rope, not dope was long the motto of farmers who supported legalizing hemp.

After states began legalizing marijuana for adult use over a decade ago, hemp advocates saw an opening at the federal level. As part of the 2018 farm bill, Congress legalized the cultivation of industrial hemp to give farmers, including in Republican Sen. Mitch McConnell's home state of Kentucky, a new cash crop.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But the way that law defined hemp  as having less than 0.3% of a specific type of THC, called delta-9  opened a huge loophole. Beverages or bags of snacks could meet that threshold and still contain more than enough THC to get people high. Businesses could further exploit the law by extracting a non-impairing compound, called CBD, and chemically changing it into other types of impairing THC, such as delta-8 or delta-10.

The result? Vape oil, gummy candies, chips, cookies, sodas and other unregulated, untested products laden with hemp-derived THC spread around the country. In many places, they have been available at gas stations or convenience stores, even to teens. In legal marijuana states, they undercut heavily taxed and regulated products. In others, they evaded the prohibition on recreational use of weed.

Some states, including Indiana, have reported spikes in calls to poison-control centers for pediatric exposure to THC.

A patchwork of state regulations

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dozens of states have since taken steps to regulate or ban impairing hemp products. In October, Democratic California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a bill banning the sale of intoxicating hemp products outside the state's legal marijuana system.

Texas, which has a massive hemp market, is moving to regulate sales of impairing hemp, such as by restricting them to those over 21. In Nebraska, lawmakers have instead considered a bill to criminalize the sale and possession of products containing hemp-based THC.

Washington state adopted a program to regulate hemp growing. But the number of licensed growers has cratered since the state banned intoxicating hemp products outside of the regulated cannabis market in 2023. Five years ago, there were 220, said Trecia Ehrlich, cannabis program manager with the state agriculture department. This year, there were 42, and with a federal ban looming, she expects that number to drop by about half next year.

Minnesota made infused beverages and foods legal in 2022 for people 21 and older. The products, which must be derived from legally certified hemp, have become so popular that Target is now offering THC drinks at some of its stores in the state.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They've also been a boon to liquor stores and to small Minneapolis brewers like Indeed, where THC drinks make up close to one-quarter of the business, Bandy said. At Bauhaus Brew Labs, a few blocks away, THC drinks account for 26% of their revenues from distributed products and 11% of revenues at the brewerys taproom.

A powerful senator moves to close the loophole

None of that was what McConnell intended when he helped craft the 2018 farm bill. He finally closed the loophole by inserting a federal hemp THC ban in the measure to end the 43-day federal government shutdown, approved by the Senate on Nov. 10.

It will keep these dangerous products out of the hands of children, while preserving the hemp industry for farmers, McConnell said. Industrial hemp and CBD will remain legal for industrial applications.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Some in the legal marijuana industry celebrated, as the ban would end what they consider unfair competition.

They were joined by prohibitionists. Theres really no good argument for allowing these dangerous products to be sold in our country, said Kevin Sabet, president and CEO of Smart Approaches to Marijuana.

But the ban doesn't take effect for a year. That has given the industry hope that there is still time to pass regulations that will improve the hemp THC industry  such as by banning synthetically derived THC, requiring age restrictions on sales, and prohibiting marketing to children  rather than eradicate it.

"We are very hopeful that cooler heads will prevail," said Jonathan Miller, general counsel of the industry group U.S. Hemp Roundtable. If they really thought there was a health emergency, there would be no year-long period.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The federal ban would jeopardize more than 300,000 jobs while costing states $1.5 billion in lost tax money, the group says.

Drew Hurst, president and chief operating officer at Bauhaus Brew Labs, has no doubt his company would be among the casualties.

If this goes through as written currently, I dont see a way at all that Bauhaus could stay in business," Hurst said.

What comes next?

A number of lawmakers say they will push for regulation of the hemp THC industry. Kentucky's second senator, Republican Rand Paul, introduced an amendment to strip McConnell's hemp language from the crucial government-funding bill, but it failed on a lopsided 76-24 vote.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Minnesota's Democratic U.S. senators, Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, are among those strategizing to save the industry. Klobuchar noted at a recent news conference that the ban was inserted into the unrelated shutdown bill without a hearing. She suggested the federal government could allow states to develop their own regulatory frameworks, or that Minnesota's strict regulations could be used as a national model.

Kevin Hilliard, co-founder of Insight Brewing in Minneapolis, said the hemp industry needs a solution before planting time next spring.

"If a farmer has uncertainty, theyre not going to plant, Hilliard said.

___

Johnson reported from Seattle. AP congressional reporter Kevin Freking contributed from Washington, D.C.
Hezbollah's chief, Sheikh Naim Qassem, said on Friday that the movement has the right to respond to Israel's assassination of its top military commander in a strike on Beirut's southern suburbs last Sunday.

In a televised speech, Qassem condemned the killing of Haitham Ali Tabatabai as "a blatant aggression and a heinous crime," adding that Hezbollah "has the right to respond."

"We will determine the timing for that," he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While acknowledging that "there is infiltration and there are spies operating in Lebanon, he said the country is an open arena in which the enemy is coordinating with US, international and Arab sides."

He also conceded that "there is no parity in power with the Israeli enemy, neither militarily nor in intelligence."

"The state should be in charge of deterrence  through its army and its people," the Hezbollah chief said.

Responding to a wave of Israeli threats and reports about a possible escalation against Lebanon, Qassem said: "All these threats are a form of political pressure."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He warned that "those who seek to remove weapons are serving Israel," and he added that Hezbollah is "ready to discuss weapons and a defence strategy, but not under pressure and not as part of a new agreement."

"We are ready for political discussions about arms and a defence strategy, but not under Israeli pressure and not through annulling the current agreement," he said.

"Surrendering is out of the question," he said.

Israel and the Iranian-backed militia agreed to a ceasefire in November 2024 after more than a year of intense cross-border fire. But Israeli forces have continued to carry out strikes, mainly in southern Lebanon, as both sides accuse the other of violating the truce.
HONG KONG (AP)  Hong Kong firefighters found dozens more bodies Friday in an intensive apartment-by-apartment search of a high-rise complex where a massive fire engulfed seven buildings, and authorities arrested another 8 people involved in the towers' renovation. The death toll in one of the city's deadliest blazes rose to 128, and many remain unaccounted for.

First responders found that some fire alarms in the complex, which housed many older people, did not sound when tested, said Andy Yeung, the director of Hong Kong Fire Services, though he did not say how many were not working or if others were.

The blaze jumped rapidly from one building to the next as foam panels and bamboo scaffolding covered in netting apparently installed by a construction company caught fire.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Authorities on Friday arrested seven men and one woman, ranging in age from 40 to 63, including scaffolding subcontractors, directors of an engineering consultant company and project managers supervising the renovation, the Independent Commission Against Corruption said in a statement.

On Friday, crews prioritized apartments from which they had received emergency calls during the blaze but were unable to reach in the hours that the fire burned out of control, Derek Armstrong Chan, a deputy director of Hong Kong Fire Services, told reporters. It took firefighters a day to bring the fire under control, and it was not fully extinguished until Friday morning  some 40 hours after it started.

Even two days after the fire began, smoke continued to drift out of the charred skeletons of the buildings from the occasional flare-up.

More bodies may be found

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Some 200 people remain unaccounted for, Secretary for Security Chris Tang told reporters. That includes 89 bodies that have not yet been identified. Yet more bodies might be recovered, authorities said, though crews have finished a search for anyone living trapped inside.

More than 2,300 firefighters and medical personnel were involved in the operation, and 12 firefighters were among the 79 people injured, Yeung said. One firefighter was also killed, he had said previously.

Katy Lo, 70, a resident of Wang Fuk Court, was not home when the fire started Wednesday. She rushed back roughly an hour later to see that the blaze had spread to her building.

Thats my home. I still cant really believe what happened, Lo said on Friday as she registered for government assistance for affected households. This all still feels like a bad dream.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The dead included two Indonesian migrant workers, the Indonesian foreign ministry said Thursday. About 11 other migrants from the country who were working as domestic helpers in the apartment complex remained missing, Indonesian Consul General Yul Edison said.

The government said all official flags in the city will be lowered to half staff in mourning from Saturday to Monday. The city's leader, John Lee, will lead a three-minute silence Saturday from the government headquarters.

The apartment complex of eight, 31-story buildings in Tai Po district, a suburb near Hong Kongs border with mainland China, was built in the 1980s and had been undergoing a major renovation. It had almost 2,000 apartments and some 4,800 residents.

Highly flammable foam panels blamed

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Three men  the directors and an engineering consultant of a construction company  were arrested Thursday on suspicion of manslaughter, and police said company leaders were suspected of gross negligence.

Police have not identified the company where the suspects worked, but documents posted to the homeowners association's website showed that the Prestige Construction & Engineering Company was in charge of renovations. Police have seized boxes of documents from the company, where phones rang unanswered Thursday.

In addition to the new arrests Friday, the anti-corruption agency also searched the suspects' offices and seized relevant documents and bank records.

Police said they found highly flammable plastic foam panels attached to the windows on each floor of the one unaffected tower. The panels were believed to have been installed by the construction company but the purpose was not clear.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Preliminary investigations showed the fire started on a lower-level scaffolding net of one of the buildings, and then spread rapidly as the foam panels caught fire, said Tang, the secretary for security.

"The blaze ignited the foam panels, causing the glass to shatter and leading to a swift intensification of the fire and its spread into the interior spaces, Tang said.

Authorities suspected some materials on the exterior walls of the high-rise buildings did not meet fire resistance standards, allowing the unusually fast spread of the fire.

Authorities planned immediate inspections of housing complexes undergoing major renovations to ensure scaffolding and construction materials meet safety standards.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The fire was the deadliest in Hong Kong in decades. A 1996 fire in a commercial building in Kowloon killed 41 people. A warehouse fire in 1948 killed 176 people, according to the South China Morning Post.

___

Researcher Shihuan Chen in Beijing contributed to this report.

___

This story has been updated to correct the name of a fire services official to Derek Armstrong Chan, not Wong Ka Wing.
At least 128 people are now known to have died in a devastating fire that engulfed multiple high-rise buildings in Hong Kong.

Eight people have been arrested on suspicion of corruption over the renovation works the blocks had been undergoing before the fire. Three others were detained earlier on manslaughter charges.

The cause of the fire remains unclear, though officials said that polystyrene and protective netting placed on the outside of the windows facilitated its spread.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A further 79 people were injured in the blaze - the city's deadliest in more than 70 years. Dozens remain missing.

Police went into the buildings to start gathering evidence, after authorities said that an investigation would take place over the next three to four weeks.

The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) said that those arrested in the corruption probe on Friday included directors at an engineering company and scaffolding subcontractors.

Some 2,311 firefighters worked to bring the fire under control after it spread across seven of Wang Fuk Court's eight apartment blocks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Firefighting efforts have now ceased. The fire was fully extinguished by 10:18 local time (02:18 GMT) on Friday, the fire department said at a news conference.

It also said 89 bodies have yet to be identified, and 16 bodies remain inside the buildings.

Meanwhile, crowds have been gathering at a nearby community hall that has been opened to families looking for missing loved ones. Relatives are being asked to help with the identification process by bringing in family photos.

The Hong Kong government has also set up shelters and support centres for displaced residents. Groups of volunteers have been packing and organising supplies for those affected, including clothing and hygiene products.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The blaze started at 14:51 local time (06:51 GMT) on Wednesday, and by 18:22 local time it had been upgraded to the most serious category by fire officials.

The fire department said the fire started at a lower level before moving upwards, and reached a peak temperature of 500C (932F).

As a result, the blaze reignited in some places after being doused, they said.

One former resident, who moved out earlier this year and only gave his surname, told the BBC: "There was nothing we could do. Together we watched our homes burn gradually."

The fire spread quickly across the separate blocks due to the presence of flammable netting and other materials on the outside of the buildings.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Firefighter Ho Wai-ho, 37, has been identified as among those killed. He was found collapsed at the scene on Wednesday, about 30 minutes after contact with him was lost.

Twelve other firefighters have also been injured, authorities said.

[BBC]

Two Indonesian nationals who had been working on the buildings were also killed in the fire, a migrant charity said. Indonesian and Filipino workers are among those still unaccounted for.

Indonesian worker Fita had been inside the building with her employer when she heard the fire brigade siren. She described it as scary and confusing, but added that she felt "so grateful" to be safe.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"But I'm concerned about friends I know... Usually we talk, and then I haven't met them [since the fire]," she told news agency Reuters.

Many of those in the shelters have been unwilling to speak to the media while reeling from the trauma.

Shock has quickly shifted to anger in Hong Kong, as questions grow on who should be held accountable for the blaze.

Several residents have said they did not hear a fire alarm when the fire broke out. Hong Kong's fire service found that fire alarms in all eight blocks were not working effectively.

Meanwhile, one resident told the BBC that some of the alarms had been turned off by construction workers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Reports of residents' prior complaints over high renovation fees and whether the materials used complied with fire-safety regulations have also resurfaced and are circulating widely online.

"We have reason to believe that those in charge at the company were grossly negligent, which led to this accident and caused the fire to spread uncontrollably, resulting in major casualties," a police spokesperson said.

Wang Fuk Court was built in 1983 and had provided 1,984 apartments for some 4,600 residents, according to a 2021 government census.

Nearly 40% of its residents are estimated to be at least 65 years old. Some have lived in the subsidised housing estate since it was built.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hong Kong's second-deadliest fire on record killed 176 people in 1948 and was caused by a ground-floor explosion at a five-storey warehouse. The most deadly was at Happy Valley Racecourse in 1918, when more than 600 people died.

Additional reporting by Martin Yip and Gemini Cheng in Hong Kong
The mother of a teenager who died from a single punch on a night out believes awareness is growing around the dangers of the attacks.

Kristian Thompson died in 2011, months after being punched in the head in Consett on his 19th birthday.

His mum Maxine Thompson-Curl has launched the annual Punched Out Cold campaign, urging people out celebrating over Christmas to "stop, think and walk away".

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She set up the charity One Punch UK after her son's death and is calling on pubs and bars to keep an eye on those drinking too much.

She said in the 12 years since she launched the charity, messaging around one-punch attacks was "sticking with people" before they went on nights out.

Northumbria, Durham and Cleveland Police have backed the Punched Out Cold campaign [Andy Watson/BBC]

"No-one wants to live the life I've led, losing Kristian destroyed our family and friends, but I hope it can be lesson - take a breath stay calm, walk away," she said.

"Over the years the campaign has grown across multiple different police forces around the country and I just hope the message is sinking in - it feels like awareness is growing."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

One Punch UK also speaks in schools and has published a children's book, with the aim of getting the message out to younger people.

Northumbria Police's Ch Insp Jennifer Busby says the campaign is getting people to pause [BBC]

The campaign is backed by Durham, Northumbria and Cleveland Police.

Northumbria Police's Ch Insp Jennifer Busby said the campaign was about getting people to stop and think.

"Violent crime can have lifelong, devastating consequences," she said.

"We're dedicated to fighting violent crime but we need the public to play their part."

Follow BBC North East on X, Facebook, Nextdoor and Instagram.

More on this story

Related links:
BEIJING, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- The State Council Work Safety Committee has mandated supervised oversight of the investigation into a fatal collision between a test train and maintenance workers on a railway track in Kunming, capital of southwest China's Yunnan Province, the Ministry of Emergency Management said on Friday.

The collision occurred in the early hours of Thursday at Luoyangzhen Station in Kunming, killing 11 people and injuring two others.

The ministry emphasized the urgent need for a thorough investigation into the cause of the collision and implementation of robust preventive measures to avoid recurrence.

A joint working group comprising officials from the State Council Work Safety Committee, the National Railway Administration and China State Railway Group Co., Ltd. has been dispatched to the site to spearhead emergency response and investigation efforts. 
Nov. 27As rain poured on Thanksgiving Day, hundreds of folks from all walks of life gathered in the Spokane Salvation Army building for a free feast.

Around 400 plates filled with turkey, stuffing, potatoes and other fixings were prepared for the Thanksgiving feast. This is a tradition for the Salvation Army in Spokane, said Captain David Cain, who helped coordinate the meal.

"A lot of the folks that we serve are in some of the toughest social spaces in our community," Cain said. "They're facing some of the toughest issues  homelessness, poverty, they're impacted by the foster care system, families that are exiting homelessness. So all of those things, they're isolating. People are kind of driven to the fringes, and they feel alone."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Salvation Army puts on events like this to remind people that they are not alone. It is events like these that helped Cain get off the streets in California.

"16 years ago, the Salvation Army opened their doors to me when I was homeless and on the street and addicted to methamphetamines," Cain said.

It changed his life.

"There were Salvation Army officers just like myself that cared for me. I'm moved by the ways that people loved me when I couldn't love myself. That's what our team embodies," Cain said.

Benjamin Jackson, who lives in transitional housing down the road from the Salvation Army, came to the Thanksgiving meal with his girlfriend. Six years ago, Jackson was living on the streets and addicted to meth.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Life was just bad all the way around," Jackson said. "I started getting clean so I could see my children."

Now, because of help Jackson got from the Salvation Army, he is sober and safe.

Cain walked around the room, hugging and shaking hands with people he was obviously familiar with. Many of the folks who showed up for the Thanksgiving meal are people Cain works with on a weekly basis.

"We serve about 200 families every day, five days a week, right here," Cain said.

Kids come to the Salvation Army's after-school program; families stay at transitional living facilities just down the road or at the Salvation Army's 60-bed shelter. The whole purpose of it all is not to just provide people with a bed, a meal or shelter from the cold weather, Cain said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"We carry a vision for people who can't carry a vision for themselves," Cain said. "... If our job was just to give someone a meal, I think we would be missing the point. We want to see people's lives changed, and that happens when they're reminded of their humanity and their worth."

Some folks Cain works with are just down on their luck. They missed one too many rent payments or got behind on their medical bills. Others have addictions they cannot quite kick and are living on the streets, feeding themselves with what they can find in garbage cans, Cain said.

The Salvation Army provides food and shelter and then tries to help people get back to themselves, Cain said. If basic needs cannot be met, it is hard to get someone off the street and back to independent life, Cain said. People need to be reminded that they are cared for and seen, Cain said.

Hundreds of people helped put the feast together: a cub scout troop that came and decorated the room for Thanksgiving, Blessings and Beyond  a local organization that catered all the food for the feast  and volunteers who served the food.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

More than 50 volunteers served plates and welcomed people into the building for the meal, including Derek McIalwain, his wife Hailey and their two daughters, 11-year-old Drew and 10-year-old Davylyn. The McIalwain's will head over to their own Thanksgiving dinner with family in Spokane later, but first, Derek said they wanted to serve those who are struggling.

"It's just a little part of our day that we can give back," Derek said.

Derek and Hailey decided to bring the kids with them so they could see that other people are not as fortunate as they are.

"Not everybody lives the same way that we do," Derek said.
AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein

Indiana state Senator Mike Bohacek (R) publicly declared he will vote against President Donald Trump-backed redistricting efforts in his state as he raged against the presidents use of a slur Friday to insult Minnesota Governor Tim Walz (D).

Bohacek, a Republican from Michiana whose daughter has Down syndrome, said Trumps Friday remark  using the word retard  crossed a personal line. The president hurled the slur in a late-night anti-immigration tirade during which he branded the Democrat seriously retarded.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Taking to Facebook, the lawmaker warned that words have consequences and he would be voting NO on redistricting efforts until Trump could prove his policies and behavior deserve a congressional majority:

Screengrab via X

His break comes at a tense moment for Indiana Republicans, who are weighing whether to redraw the states congressional map just four years after completing the once-a-decade process. Trump has been urging GOP-led states to reengineer districts ahead of the 2026 midterms, hoping to secure a House majority that his advisers warn could slip away.

The pressure has grown unusually direct. House Speaker Mike Johnson is set to hold a Saturday conference call with Indiana House Republicans after insisting publicly he had no role in state-level efforts. Johnson has already phoned Senate President Pro Tempore Rodric Bray, whose caucus remains divided on whether to proceed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Even with national figures leaning in, the Senate appears short of the votes needed, multiple Republicans familiar with the count told Politico Friday.

The post Indiana Republican With Disabled Daughter Revolts on Redistricting After Trumps Slur: Words Have Consequences first appeared on Mediaite.
Russian President Vladimir Putin will travel to New Delhi for a state visit on December 4 and 5 at the invitation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Kremlin and the Indian government said on Friday that the negotiations will focus on expanding the "special and privileged strategic partnership" between the two countries.

India is one of the largest buyers of Russian oil. Russia is using the proceeds from these sales to finance its war against Ukraine, which Modi has repeatedly called for an end to.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Modi, who visited Moscow and Kazan last year, has long maintained close relations with Putin.

The Kremlin said the talks in New Delhi will focus on economic and trade relations between the two countries.

The signing of a joint declaration and a series of political and economic documents is planned.
Commander hints that the IDF is not leaving Syria any time soon, despite US-sponsored talks

The Magazine recently embedded with a group of female field intelligence soldiers spying on hostile elements in Syria, which included a visit to Position 720 on the Israel-Syria-Jordan border tri-point.

IDF Battalion 595 Commander Lt. Col. G, his Operations Officer Maj. M, and intelligence collection soldiers S, D, and V  all of them other than G being female soldiers  were interviewed to provide an in-depth snapshot of what its like to sneak through Syria to help keep Israeli forces ahead of the curve.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The three female intelligence collection soldiers  S, D, and V  specialize in drone field intelligence collection.

While that might sound like they are sitting back safely in headquarters, they are very much deep in the field and potentially in danger, utilizing a tactical drone from up close so they can eyeball whatever the drone sees.

M said that since the 2023-2025 war, drone use has expanded so exponentially in the IDF that essentially every platoon commander, and sometimes even a few soldiers, have their own drone assigned for collecting forward intelligence.

The gate on the border from the Golan Heights into Syria at Majdal Shams, May 3, 2025. (credit: REUTERS/Avi Ohayon)

G commented that one of the arts of using a drone to collect intelligence in Syria is figuring out the ideal height at which to fly the drone in differing circumstances.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In principle, it would be ideal to fly a surveillance drone as low as possible to get the most specific information and the highest resolution surveillance available. But in many situations, flying too low risks blowing the surveillance, which would alert the targets and enable them to adjust to avoid surveillance, defeating the whole purpose of clandestine intelligence collection.

Battalion 595 has helped locate and catch Iranians, Hamas members, jihadists, and just about anyone who could threaten Israel in its Syrian security zone or nearby.

S, D, and V are part of a new generation of IDF combat women who do not hesitate to pounce on enemies in hostile territory. These women seem to be precisely the kind of confident and forward-leaning field intelligence officers who are helping lead Israels post-Oct. 7 strategy of being more aggressive in enemy territory.

Field intelligence combat soldier S

S had no idea that she would become a combat soldier and field intelligence officer.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When the Magazine interviewed her, she had been serving for two and a half years.

Prior to the IDFs December 2024 invasion of Syria and creation of a buffer zone, she had spent significant amounts of time in enemy territory but did not necessarily go as deep, as there were no IDF bases in Syria.

After the invasion, S has spent significant time serving in the area around Position 720 near the tri-border between Israel, Syria, and Jordan, including the Yarmuk River, which borders all three countries.

One of the biggest challenges she has encountered has been when she has spent at times up to two weeks in the field, learning how to cope with situations where she is barely sleeping at all.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When the Alexandroni Brigade took action in the area, it was always based on intelligence that she and her unit provided and with them guiding operations in real time.

In one operation, S said they went many kilometers beyond the buffer zone. That operation included their providing field guidance for the 890 Paratroopers Unit.

There was an operation where they studied four individuals working for or with associations to Iran or to agents of Iran. Each of them had to be analyzed separately in terms of their movements, timing, and habits, S said.

Field intelligence combat soldier D

D told the Magazine that they operate mostly at night to avoid detection and higher risks of conflict with hostile elements.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They study who goes in and out of each structure on which they are assigned to collect intelligence.

In one operation, D stated they spent four hours preparing a trap to ensnare a hostile individual of interest.

They explained to a large group of soldiers how the individual would likely try to escape capture and how to thwart his escape.

Field intelligence combat soldier V

V had been serving for two years and two months when interviewed.

She was involved in helping IDF forces take over new areas for the Syria buffer zone on December 8.

She also referred to the operation that was many kilometers deep into Syria and to working on significant operations with the paratroopers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In July, the IDF admitted that it had failed to stop large numbers of Israeli Druze from entering Syrian territory.

However, G and other senior IDF officers have also said that the police must take the lead in handling such complex conflict situations with Israeli citizens.

The IDF is not generally trained to handle crowd control of Israeli citizens with non-lethal means; rather, it is focused on eliminating enemy forces with lethal force.

G says he hopes that quick warnings of initial moves by Israeli Druze will get both the police and the IDF into positions that will close off and prevent these Druze from even being able to approach the border.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

M added that intelligence is crucial on the Druze and Sweida issue so that the IDF will be ahead of the curve and will not get caught flat-footed like it did earlier this year.

Also, she said that despite the IDFs failure to block Israeli Druze from crossing into Syria, the militarys primary role during that conflict was its active pressuring of the new Syrian regime to stop attacking the Syrian Druze to avoid a pogrom.

Operations to arrest Iranians and other threats

Asked about how and when he orders an arrest or an attack on Iranian or other jihadist elements near Israels border or its buffer zone, G said there are many factors.

He said it was very important to know which hours of the day a specific target was alone versus surrounded by others who could put up a more difficult resistance to an IDF operation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He also said it was crucial to understand the routines of the specific village where the target lived.

Moreover, he said it is vital to know which kinds of motor vehicles might be involved in the operation from the Syrian side and who is connected to which vehicle.

Whether the mission priority should be to try to arrest or to kill such a target is usually decided by commanders higher up in the ranks than G; but if the mission gets complicated, usually G will decide how to modify the mission parameters.

G talked about an operation in Syria in which he had set up a mobile forward-positioned command center in Syria to make it easier to observe and manage the operation up close.
Nov. 28 (UPI) -- The Israeli Defense Forces launched an attack on Beit Jinn in southern Syria, which killed 13 residents, including two children, and seriously wounded some Israeli soldiers.

The Israeli military described the event as an "exchange of fire" in Beit Jinn, where three of its soldiers were seriously injured. It also said it arrested three people associated with Jamaa Islamiya, a Lebanon-based militant group.

The Washington Post reported that, according to their families, there were two girls, ages 4 and 17, and a 10-year-old boy killed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Syrian Foreign Ministry called it a "criminal attack carried out by an Israeli occupation army patrol in Beit Jinn. The occupation forces' targeting of the town of Beit Jinn with brutal and deliberate shelling, following their failed incursion, constitutes a full-fledged war crime," Al Jazeera reported.

Syrian civil defense said they weren't able to enter the city to rescue the wounded because the IDF continues to target any movement.

Since the civil war in Syria overturned the Bashar al-Assad regime, the Israeli military seized a demilitarized buffer zone in the Golan Heights and in Syria. It has also launched hundreds of air strikes across Syria, including in Damascus. Human Rights Watch has declared some operations war crimes.

Earlier this month, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa met with President Donald Trump in the White House, and Trump paused all sanctions against the country for six months. But so far, Al-Sharaa has refused to normalize relations with Israel.
Israeli forces killed 13 people on Friday in an operation in southern Syria, saying they targeted an Islamist group, in Israel's deadliest attack on the country since Bashar al-Assad's overthrow last year.

Since an Islamist coalition overthrew longtime ruler Assad in December of last year, Israel has conducted hundreds of strikes on Syria's military arsenal as well as incursions into the country.

The Israeli army said an exchange of fire in the operation to detain militants in the Syrian village of Beit Jin left six Israeli soldiers wounded, with three of them in a serious condition.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The official SANA news agency, quoting the Syrian health ministry, reported 13 dead and 24 more wounded in the Israeli operation.

The Syrian foreign ministry condemned the operation as a "war crime" and accused Israel of wanting to "ignite the region".

An AFP journalist saw several wounded people being taken to a hospital in Damascus, around 40 kilometres (25 miles) from the village.

"We were asleep when we were woken up at three in the morning by gunfire," wounded resident Iyad Taher told AFP at al-Mouwassat hospital in the Syrian capital.

"We went outside to see what was happening and saw the Israeli army in the village, soldiers and tanks. Then they withdrew, the air force came, and the shells started falling. I was hit by shrapnel in the neck."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Israeli army said the targets of the operation were fighters from the Islamist group Jamaa Islamiya, which is based in neighbouring Lebanon and allied with Palestinian armed group Hamas.

"The suspects operated in the area of Beit Jin in southern Syria and advanced terror attacks against Israeli civilians," it said in a statement.

A local official told AFP that Israeli forces raided the village to capture three men, sparking clashes.

"Following the clashes, the Israeli occupation forces shelled the area with artillery and drones," village official Abdul Rahman al-Hamrawi said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At the hospital, Ahmad Kamal told AFP he and others "opened fire on the Israeli patrol to defend ourselves and stop them from taking us. My brother was killed, and I was wounded".

- 'Territorial integrity' -

In Damascus and other major Syrian cities, demonstrators marking one year since the Islamist-led offensive that toppled Assad denounced Israel's attacks.

Banners in Damascus read "Beit Jin makes us proud" and "stop Israeli attacks".

United Nations Deputy Special Envoy for Syria Najat Rochdi condemned Israel's attack, calling it "a grave and unacceptable violation of Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity".

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rami Abdul Rahman, head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitor, said Friday's operation was "the deadliest incursion since Israel began conducting operations outside the buffer zone in southern Syria".

Israel sent troops into and beyond the UN-patrolled buffer zone, which has separated Israeli and Syrian forces on the Golan Heights since 1974, in the immediate aftermath of Assad's fall.

In June, Syria accused Israel of "abducting seven people" from Beit Jin and killing one civilian "as a result of direct gunfire on the residents".

Israel accused the people of being Hamas members.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Israel has occupied Syria's Golan Heights, a strategic mountain plateau, since 1967, annexing it in 1981 in a move not recognised by the international community.

Last week Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited Israeli troops deployed in the buffer zone, drawing a sharp rebuke from Damascus and others in the region.

The premier has previously insisted that southern Syria be demilitarised following Assad's overthrow.

Israel's key backer the United States has been pushing for a security pact between Syria and Israel, part of President Donald Trump's goal to shore up the fragile Gaza ceasefire with a broader Middle East peace settlement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While Syrian and Israeli officials have held repeated rounds of talks, President Ahmed al-Sharaa has ruled out Syria joining the Abraham Accords, under which a handful of Arab countries have normalised ties with Israel.

He recently met with Trump and warned in a UN speech that Israel's persistent attacks put the region at risk, but backed diplomacy.

"In the face of this aggression, Syria is committed to dialogue," he said.

burs-nad/dcp
Israeli authorities are reviewing an incident in which soldiers shot and killed two people who appeared to be surrendering in the occupied West Bank, an act described by the Palestinian Authority as a fully-fledged war crime.

The incident took place in the Palestinian city of Jenin in the West Bank, during a widescale counterterrorism operation by the Israeli military on Thursday. The Palestinian Authority confirmed their deaths and identified the men as 26-year-old Al-Muntasir Mahmoud Qassem Abdullah and 37-year-old Youssef Ali Youssef Asasa.

Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) identified the two men as fighters, saying in a statement that they exchanged fire with Israeli forces until their ammunition was depleted, after which they were besieged and killed in what it described as a field execution.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The PA said the incident was a flagrant violation of all international laws, conventions, norms, and humanitarian values.

On Saturday evening, Israels far-right Minister of National Security Itamar Ben Gvir, who had previously said the border police acted exactly as expected of them, doubled down on his support, promoting the units commander. In a video released on social media, Ben Gvir said, This distorted procedure must end  when one of our fighters shoots a terrorist, hes immediately taken in for questioning. This distorted procedure must end, this mindset must stop.

Sharon Nahari, the lawyer for the three Border Police personnel involved, told CNN on Friday that his clients were interrogated by the State Attorneys department of internal police investigations, which is conducting an inquiry into the incident. The three were later released on bail.

Nahari said that his clients genuinely believed their lives were in danger, and that the Border Police had commanded the suspects to remove their clothes to ensure that they were not armed, but they did not comply. The lawyer added that the shooting was conducted merely for the sake of neutralizing them and not with the intention to kill.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), the two individuals were wanted by authorities for alleged terror activities.

The IDF said it had been operating alongside border police to arrest two individuals who belonged to a terrorist organization operating in Jenin, and accused them of throwing explosive devices and gunfire at security forces.

The IDF added that the surrender procedure lasted several hours, with the men exiting the building after an engineering vehicle was used. After they exited the building, gunfire was carried out at the wanted individuals, the IDF said in a joint statement with the Israel Police.

The incident is currently under investigation by field commanders and will be transferred for review by the relevant authorities, the IDF said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Video of the incident shared on social media showed two men emerging from a building with their hands raised above their heads in apparent surrender. They are surrounded by what appear to be Israeli soldiers.

The two men are later seen on the floor in front of the buildings entrance before multiple rounds of gunfire are heard. The body of at least one of the men could then be seen lying on the ground, according to the video.

The Israeli military launched a wide-scale military operation on Wednesday in the West Bank, with Israeli forces searching over 220 sites, questioning dozens and arresting several wanted individuals, per an earlier IDF statement.

The United Nations Human Rights office said Friday that it is appalled by the brazen killing, calling the incident a summary execution.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Our office has verified that since 7 October, 2023, and up until the 27 November this year, Israeli forces and settlers have killed 1,030 Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, spokesperson Jeremy Laurence said at a press briefing in Geneva. Among these victims were 223 children.

This story has been updated with additional developments.

CNNs Mostafa Salem contributed to this report.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
The Jacksonville Sheriffs Office is asking for help with keeping your neighborhood safe from illegal drugs.

Earlier this month, officers took away enough fentanyl that could potentially kill 7 thousand people.

The Jacksonville Sheriffs Office says it spent weeks gathering evidence for a search warrant for a home in the Royal Terrace area, which led to two arrests.

Those suspects are Curtis Smith and Devin Luster, who are facing felony charges after JSO narcotic detectives found several pounds of illegal drugs and seized firearms during a drug bust.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This was a long-term investigation that yielded some great results, said Christian Hancock, media relations manager, Jacksonville sheriffs office.

JSO found over 14 grams of fentanyl, crack, and powder cocaine, marijuana, as well as 3 handguns and one assault rifle.

Theyre getting these firearms off the streets, keeps them out of the hands of individuals that do no good in our community, said Hancock.

JSO is now asking if the community sees illegal drug activity, to let them know.

These are peoples residences. These are neighborhoods where families reside, where kids reside. Nobody wants this set up next to their home, right? said Hancock.

[DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks]

JSO said once they are alerted to a tip, they start compiling evidence, and it can take weeks or up to months to complete the drug bust.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

These are extensive investigations. But once we get inside or we get in, we get an end to that establishment, thats when we start seeing arrests, like we saw here the other day, said Hancock. JSO said you can call in tips at 904-630-0500.

Heres what they found:

14.2 grams of Fentanyl (enough to potentially kill 7,000+ people)

645.2 grams of Powder Cocaine

153.1 grams of Crack Cocaine

Nearly 30 pounds of Marijuana, plus 284.4 grams of Marijuana

3 handguns, assault rifle

$6,128 in cash

[SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter]
A Japanese court has ruled the country's ban on same-sex marriage as constitutional - bucking a trend set by courts around the country that had raised hopes for marriage equality in Japan.

The ruling was met with disappointment from plaintiffs and their legal team who had gathered outside the Tokyo courthouse.

Japan is the only G7 country that does not fully recognise same-sex couples or offer them clear legal protection. But it's not an outlier in Asia, where only Taiwan, Thailand and Nepal offer same-sex marriages.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ayumi Higashi, the judge who delivered the verdict, said laws on same-sex marriage should first be deliberated in parliament, the Mainichi reported.

Outside the Tokyo courthouse on Friday, the plaintiffs of the lawsuit and their legal team held up signs that read "unjust verdict", local media reported.

Shino Kawachi, one of the plaintiffs, told local media that the ruling was "difficult to comprehend".

"What is justice? Was the court even watching us? Were they considering the next generation?" she told local media.

Her partner, Hiromi Hatogai, said she was "extremely outraged" and wondered if the judiciary was "on our side". But, she added, they would "keep fighting".

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Amnesty International described the ruling as a "damaging step backwards on same-sex marriage".

"The Japanese government needs to be proactive in moving towards the legalisation of same-sex marriage so that couples can fully enjoy the same marriage rights as their heterosexual counterparts," the rights group's East Asia researcher Boram Jang said in a statement.

The verdict on Friday is the last among six high court rulings on same-sex marriage lawsuits filed between 2019 and 2021, in courts across the country from Sapporo to Osaka to Fukuoka.

Among them, five found the ban unconstitutional - though they rejected the plaintiffs' compensation claims.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Friday's ruling by the Tokyo high court marks an exception to this series of verdicts, which had been adding weight to the push for same-sex marriage to be legalised in Japan.

The cases will next be taken to the Supreme Court.
United States Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro let loose on the left for fueling the flame of division by criticizing President Donald Trumps National Guard deployment in a Fox News tirade Friday, after hosts asked her about initial Democratic pushback to the policy.

The appearance followed in the wake of Wednesdays shooting of two National Guard members and the arrest of an Afghan national. National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom died of her injuries on Thursday, while the other, Andrew Wolfe, remains in critical condition.

Pirro appeared on Fox & Friends Friday morning, hours after news of Beckstroms passing, to explain that shed upgraded the charges against the suspected shooter to first-degree murder.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

After Pirro explained the move by prosecutors, co-host Emily Compagno pivoted to Democrats who had pushed back against National Guard deployments in the past.

Compagno asked: Attorney General, what is your message to elected officials like Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) that said that our National Guard was terrorizing American cities, that predicted that it would be the National Guard that would shoot innocent Americans and many other horrific comments such as that?

You know, it outrages me and theres part of me that thinks that the left is disappointed that the National Guard didnt shoot someone, Pirro began.

She continued: But the truth is left-wing progressive nonsense is nothing more than fueling the flame of division in this country. People should be grateful that the president of the United States has taken crime so seriously in this country that he is bringing in our law enforcement partners so that we can protect the innocent citizens.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Citing statistics that homicides and robberies were down, 60% and 50% respectively, in the District of Columbia, Pirro unloaded on the left:

The left wants to complain about it? They should thank God that President Trump is the president. He cares enough about the people of this country to fight the criminals and protect the innocent people.

Rounding on former President Joe Biden, Pirro claimed that the administration carried out no vetting when it admitted Afghan nationals during its withdrawal from the country and said the left had delivered that contributing factor also:

Let me say one more thing and its not about this case, its about vetting in general. The nonsense that the left gave us with this Operation Welcome Allies, look, there was no vetting. If you think there was vetting I have a bridge to sell you. If you saw the chaos that was going on at that airport in Kabul in Afghanistan, it was typical of what was going on in the Biden administration. And the people in the Pentagon, I believe it was [Pentagon Spokesperson John] Kirby and people in the Biden administration said the Afghan withdrawal that we all know was disastrous, was a success. Thats a quote. They called that a success. That chaos is not a success. That is a nightmare.

She added:

There was no vetting. The welcome mat was thrown down. They admitted that they short circuited the vetting. What they did was they brought a 90,000 people in this country that were not vetted. [] We dont know who they are until we suffer the consequences we have seen in Washington. I was on that scene, its a very sad place. Sarah Beckstrom and her family did not deserve this. They should have been protected, which is a first order of government. And the left ought to stop their nonsense and recognize that they are not speaking for the American people, they are speaking about ideology and politics. Donald Trump, the president, the attorney general and myself were interested in the facts and the prosecution making people accountable and rest assured, we will.

Watch above via Fox News.

The post Jeanine Pirro Slams Left for Fueling Division Over National Guard Deployment: It Outrages Me! first appeared on Mediaite.
HONG KONG, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government will hold a series of mourning events to express profound sorrow for the victims in the residential area fire in Tai Po, HKSAR government sources announced on Friday.

The national flag and the HKSAR flag will be flown at half-mast at all government buildings and facilities across Hong Kong from Saturday to Monday, among other detailed arrangements.

During the three-day mourning period, principal HKSAR government officials will call off all non-essential public events. Meanwhile, all recreational and celebratory activities organized or funded by the HKSAR government will be either canceled or postponed depending on specific circumstances.

John Lee, chief executive of the HKSAR, will lead principal officials, non-official members of the Executive Council and civil servants in observing a three-minute silence at the HKSAR government headquarters at 8 a.m. on Saturday, paying tribute to the victims of the deadly blaze.

To enable the public to convey their condolences, the Home Affairs Department of the HKSAR government will set up condolence stations in all 18 districts of Hong Kong. People can sign condolence books at these stations from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily from Saturday to Monday.

The death toll from the residential fire that broke out on Wednesday has jumped to 128, the HKSAR government said on Friday. 
Jeffrey Epstein, the disgraced financier and convicted sex offender, once owned a mansion in Palm Beach, Florida.

The Palm Beach home was a key site where many of his crimes occurred, according to investigators.

Underage girls from Palm Beach County told investigators they were assaulted at the Palm Beach mansion as well as Epstein's homes in New York, New Mexico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Epstein was convicted in 2008 on Florida charges of soliciting and procuring a person under 18 for prostitution. He took a plea deal and served nearly 13 months in the Palm Beach County Jail.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He was facing federal charges of conspiracy and sex trafficking and died from an apparent suicide at the Metropolitan Correctional Center in Manhattan on Aug. 10, 2019.

Epstein's mansion was razed about 8 months after his death in 2019.

Here's a look inside Epstein's Palm Beach home:

Jeffrey Epstein's 'house of horrors' in Palm Beach, Florida

Epstein purchased the two-story, 6-bedroom, 14,223 square-foot lakeside mansion in 1990 for $2.5 million.

According to investigators, many of Epstein's crimes happened at the Palm Beach home.

It was demolished following Epstein's death in 2019.

I think that the symbolic power of destroying the house of horrors cannot be overstated, Fort Lauderdale attorney Brad Edwards, who represented dozens of clients who said Epstein sexually abused them, told the Palm Beach Daily News when the house was razed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I can imagine there is going to be some amount of relief that the nightmare of what went on at the house has been buried to some degree.

Look inside Jeffrey Epstein's Palm Beach, Florida house

Contributing: Darrell Hofheinz, Palm Beach Daily News

Support local journalism. Consider subscribing to a Florida newspaper.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Jeffrey Epstein Florida home torn down after his death. See inside
Human rights groups and the United Nations have condemned the execution of two Palestinian men by Israeli forces in the occupied West Bank this week, saying the incident highlights a systematic policy by Israel.

A spokesperson for the UN human rights office on Friday condemned the brazen killing in the northern West Bank city of Jenin a day earlier, which was caught on camera, as yet another apparent summary execution.

Killings of Palestinians by Israeli security forces and settlers in the occupied West Bank have been surging without any accountability, Jeremy Laurence told reporters in Geneva.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He said Israeli forces and settlers have killed at least 1,030 Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, between October 7, 2023 and November 27 of this year, according to the latest UN data. That figure includes at least 223 Palestinian children.

Impunity for Israel security forces unlawful use of force and ever-growing Israeli settler violence must end, Laurence said.

Israel has faced widespread condemnation since footage from Jenin on Thursday showed its forces shooting two unarmed Palestinian men at close range as they attempted to surrender to the military during a raid.





Witnesses said the men  later identified as Al-Muntasir Billah Abdullah, 26, and Youssef Asasa, 37  had raised their shirts to indicate they were unarmed before Israeli forces ordered them back into a building that they had been holed up in.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They were then shot dead by the Israeli army, the footage showed.

Evidence & footage show they were unarmed, had surrendered & posed no threat, Palestinian human rights group Al-Haq said in a social media post on Friday.

This reflects Israels widespread and systematic policy of extrajudicial and wilful killings across the occupied Palestinian territory, the group said, including in Israels genocidal war against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.

We call on the international community to act now, impose sanctions and ensure accountability.

Total impunity

The Israeli military said in a statement on Thursday, The incident is under review by the commanders on the ground, and will be transferred to the relevant professional bodies.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But experts have noted that Israel rarely opens criminal investigations into the killings of Palestinians by the military  even when there is footage of the incidents  and soldiers directly involved are seldom held to account.

They also say top members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus far-right government have incited violence against Palestinians.





Shortly after the killings in Jenin, Netanyahus National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir wrote on social media that Israeli forces acted exactly as expected of them  terrorists must die!

Ben-Gvir has been pushing for Israel to impose the death penalty for so-called terrorism offences  a measure that rights advocates say would apply exclusively against Palestinians.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The killings in Jenin also come as Israeli politicians have been calling for the formal annexation of the West Bank amid the wave of Israeli attacks in the territory.

Shai Parnes, public outreach director at Israeli rights group BTselem, said Israelis enjoy total impunity for violence against Palestinians. Again and again, what were seeing is Israel is unwilling and unable to investigate itself, he told Al Jazeera.

Every once in a while its forced to [investigate] due to international coverage in the media or international pressure by other states, Parnes said.

But each and every time, the outcome is pretty much the same. The entire investigating mechanisms in Israel are whitewashed  and their goal is to pretend like theyre investigating [while] actually [giving] the perpetrators total impunity.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He added that Ben-Gvirs remarks, appearing to celebrate the killings in Jenin, demonstrate that Israel has no intention of conducting a credible investigation.

We already know what the outcome is going to be since the minister who is in charge of the investigators already declared it was OK, Parnes said.




All eight Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams locations in Columbus have moved to unionize, with 80 workers filing a petition to join United Food and Commercial Workers Local 1059.

According to a Nov. 25 petition filed with the National Labor Relations Board, the employees are seeking to unionize "all full-time and part-time team leads and ambassadors employed by Jenis in the Columbus region," while excluding clerical staff, guards, managers and supervisors.

UFCW Local 1059 represents more than 18,000 workers across central and southern Ohio, primarily in grocery stores, food production, retail and health care. Kroger is the most known food-store chain in central Ohio with UFCW 1059 representation.

NEW: 80 ice cream workers across 8 locations of Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream in Columbus, Ohio are unionizing with @UFCW. pic.twitter.com/y8SjSDlvb4  Daily Union Elections (@UnionElections) November 26, 2025

The union negotiates contracts covering wages, scheduling, benefits, safety standards and dispute procedures. UFCW Local 1059 is part of the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union, one of the largest labor unions for food and retail workers in the United States.

Jeni's responds to employee organizing effort

Jenis confirmed in a statement that it was notified Nov. 25 that UFCW Local 1059 had filed a petition.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"It is the company's current understanding that an election regarding whether or not to ratify this union as the representative of the Jeni's Columbus scoop shop Ambassadors, Team Leads, and Full-time Team Leads will potentially be held on a yet to be determined date," the company said.

"Jenis is, and will be, respectful of this process and respectful of our employees and their rights. We will have an update when we gain additional understanding of this circumstance, and the next steps."

An attorney listed in the employees' NLRB filing did not respond to a request for comment.

What does joining a union mean?

Jeni's Columbus footprint includes locations in the Short North, Columbus Commons, Clintonville, the North Market, Easton Town Center as well as in the cities of Dublin and Grandview Heights.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Unionizing would allow workers to elect representatives to negotiate a contract with the company which would address issues such as pay, scheduling, job security, training standards and workplace policies.

Jenis was founded in Columbus in 2002 by Jeni Britton Bauer, who opened the first shop in the North Market. The company, still headquartered in the city, has since grown into a national ice cream brand with more than 80 shops across the U.S.

Trending features reporter Amani Bayo can be reached at abayo@dispatch.com.

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Jenis union in the works as workers move to join UCFW Local 1059
Jet2 is set to launch new flights to destinations in Egypt for the first time since 2011.

The countrys government announced a programme of 14 weekly connections from multiple UK cities to its Red Sea resorts on Thursday, 27 November.

The airline is set to begin flying to Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada in 2027, equating to some 169,000 extra seats for holidaymakers in the first year.

Jet2 suspended flights to the Red Sea in 2011 after political unrest, which at the time frustrated tourists. The new routes mark the first link with the country in 14 years.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The routes to Sharm El Sheikh will include two weekly departures from Birmingham, one from Edinburgh, two from Manchester and two from London Stansted.

The Hurghada routes will have similar departure routes, but instead of Edinburgh, the Scottish flight will be departing from Glasgow.

The new services have been put in place after discussions between Egypts tourism minister, Sherif Fathy, and the CEO of the Jet2 Group, Steve Healy, at the recent World Travel Market held in London.

Holidaymakers from the UK comprise a large part of Egypts tourist numbers, attracted by affordable package holidays, historical sites and warm weather.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A spokesperson for Jet2 said: As the UK's favourite airline and tour operator, we continually review our flight and holiday programmes to ensure that they meet the needs of our customers.

We are in the process of finalising a very exciting programme to Egypt, and we will communicate the details, including a fantastic launch offer, with customers next week.

Jet2 reported a record number of passengers this year, which were partly attributed to a viral TikTok trend that saw its tagline, "Nothing beats a Jet2 holiday," amass over 80 billion global views across social media platforms.

The company welcomed 14.1 million passengers in the six months leading up to 30 September, an increase of 750,000 compared to the previous period.

Read more: Jess Glynne and the viral TikTok trend helps drive record Jet2 holiday demand
A federal judge is pressing the Justice Department to explain how it will protect the identities of Jeffrey Epsteins victims after lawyers said that dozens of their names appeared unredacted in documents released by Congress, prompting what they described as widespread panic.

Judge Richard Berman of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York on Wednesday night requested a detailed description of the materials the government intends to release and an explanation of how it will safeguard the privacy of victims, including through redactions. Berman, who oversaw the trafficking case against Epstein, attached a letter from attorneys Bradley Edwards and Brittany Henderson that calls for strict privacy protections in future releases.

The House Oversight Committees public release of more than 20,000 documents caused widespread panic among survivors, the lawyers wrote.

Edwards and Henderson, who represent hundreds of Epsteins victims, urged the Justice Department to redact all victims names in any future materials sent to Congress or made public. They also asked for a private meeting with the DOJ to share a list of more than 300 victims they represent so that federal officials can protect against further disclosures.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The lawyers said dozens of victims names appeared unredacted in the cache of documents and emails from the Justice Department released this month, turning the release into a new source of concern for victims who had sought to maintain their anonymity.

Transparency CANNOT come at the expense of the privacy, safety, and protection of sexual abuse and sex trafficking victims, especially these survivors who have already suffered repeatedly, the lawyers wrote.

According to the letter, some victims warned that releasing their names would put them in physical danger. Several told their lawyers that they had been approached on the street by reporters, including one who said she was confronted while standing with her 9-year-old son, according to the letter.

The lawyers pointed to one document released by the Justice Department that they said listed the names of at least 28 victims  including individuals who were minor children at the time of the abuse, as well as women granted protection in the same legal jurisdiction as a result of grave public safety concerns.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This type of negligence by the government to a survivor is just unable to comprehend, one alleged victim wrote in a document included in the court filing. I dont understand how this is possible.

I have been unable to mentally and emotionally function or sleep, said another.

A third said, I thought the government had promised to redact our names and identifying material. I dont understand how this is happening again.

In their letter, Edwards and Henderson said some survivors fear the Justice Department intentionally exposed their names when it released thousands of unredacted files tied to Epsteins case to Congress this year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

These women now beg this Court and beg the United States Department of Justice to allow them to choose to remain protected, the attorneys said.

While Epsteins estate also failed to redact some names, the lawyers said they believed these to be genuine mistakes.

The lawyers also accused the DOJ of creating a perpetual distraction through the release of grand jury materials tied to Epstein co-conspirator Ghislaine Maxwell, arguing that the documents provide little meaningful information and are being used as a diversion.

The Justice Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment Thursday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Berman presided over the governments 2019 case against Epstein before the disgraced financier and sex offender died in jail while awaiting trial.

The letter from Edwards and Henderson comes after President Donald Trump signed a bill on Nov. 19 directing the DOJ to release its Epstein files. The president, who for months argued against passing the legislation, has continued to call the push to release the files part of a hoax.

Congress passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which directs Attorney General Pam Bondi to release all unclassified records tied to Epstein within 30 days, while withholding or redacting material that could jeopardize a federal investigation. It is still not known exactly when or how the files will ultimately be released.

Some victims have criticized the attempts to unseal the grand jury testimony, saying those attempts have disregarded victims repeated calls for privacy.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
The Monroe Township Board of Education meets on Oct. 15, 2025. The board was sued over its decision to appoint a new member before holding a public discussion.

A panel of appellate judges this week shined a spotlight on the all-too-common issue of government bodies in New Jersey hashing out decisions behind closed doors.

If youve ever watched a public meeting, you know what Im talking about. Officials tell the public they have legal matters to discuss, so they meet privately, sometimes for hours. The state Open Public Meetings Act allows them to do this, with limits, but any reporter or gadfly will tell you they suspect a lot more goes on during these private sessions than the law allows.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The appellate decision from this week involves the Monroe Township Board of Education, which met on Oct. 18, 2023, in part to fill a vacant seat on the nine-member board. It met in closed session for 45 minutes to discuss the candidates, reached a consensus pick while meeting privately, then returned to public session to appoint a guy named Matthew Gorham, without giving the public a chance to weigh in before their vote to add him to the board. That was a violation of the Open Public Meetings Act, the appellate court ruled.

Substantively, the public only witnessed the nomination and vote to install Gorham. The Board did not take any questions or comments from the public about the candidates or the process because it moved directly to the nomination and vote, this weeks ruling says.

Making matters worse, the board had previously told the public theyd be interviewing candidates at the meeting, then decided not to.

The Open Public Meetings Act certainly gives the Monroe school board the legal right to discuss potential appointments to a vacant seat outside of public view. But the law also requires them to bring that discussion back before the public before acting, as the new ruling says.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The fact (that) all its deliberations regarding candidate qualifications and whether to interview those candidates took place in private, without giving the public any insight into these decisions, was problematic, it says.

Walter Luers, who represented the plaintiff in her lawsuit against the Monroe board, said hes pleased the appellate panel issued an important rule of law stating that school boards, when appointing a new member, must explain the decisions they make behind closed doors to the public.

This is an important rule for transparency and Board governance in New Jersey, and is consistent with existing New Jersey caselaw, Luers said.

The fight over the Monroe school board appointment is largely moot  Gorham lost in his bid to stay in the seat in April 2024  but I hope other public entities take note here. State law governs when you can and cant meet in private, and simply saying weve got legal matters to discuss isnt a good enough reason to shut the public out of matters of public concern. Luers agrees.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I hope it moves the needle closer to public entities having more disclosures and discussions in public, and certainly when appointing an official that ordinarily the electorate votes for, a higher standard applies, Luers said.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
KISUMU, Kenya (AP)  A high court in Kenya on Thursday declared unconstitutional sections of a seed law that prevented farmers from sharing and selling indigenous seeds in what food campaigners have called a landmark win for food security.

Farmers in Kenya could face up to two years imprisonment and a fine of 1 million Kenya shillings ($7,700) for sharing seeds through their community seed banks, according to a seed law signed in 2012.

Justice Rhoda Rutto on Thursday said sections of the seed law that gave government officials powers to raid seed banks and seize seeds were also unconstitutional.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The law was introduced as a measure to curb growing sale of counterfeit seeds that were causing loses in the agricultural sector and gave sole seed trading rights to licensed companies.

The case had been filed by 15 smallholder farmers, who are members of community seed banks that have been in operation for years, preserving and sharing seeds among colleagues.

A farmer, Samuel Wathome, who was among the 15, said the old farming practices had been vindicated.

My grandmother saved seeds, and today the court has said I can do the same for my grandchildren without fear of the police or of prison, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Elizabeth Atieno, a food campaigner at Greenpeace Africa, called the win a victory for our culture, our resilience, and our future.

By validating indigenous seeds, the court has struck a blow against the corporate capture of our food system. We can finally say that in Kenya, feeding your community with climate-resilient, locally adapted seeds is no longer a crime, she said.

Food campaigners have in the past encouraged governments to work with farmers to preserve indigenous seeds as a way of ensuring food security by offering farmers more plant varieties.

Indigenous seeds are believed to be drought resistant and adaptable to the climate conditions of their native areas, and hence often outperform hybrid seeds.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kenya has a national seed bank based near the capital Nairobi where indigenous seeds are stored in cold rooms, but farmers say community seed banks are equally important for variety and proximity to the farmer.

The country has faced challenges in the seed sector where counterfeit seeds were sold to farmers, leading to losses amounting to millions of shillings in a country that relies on rain-fed agriculture.
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission.

Venus is known to have extreme weather on its surface. | Credit: NASA

This article was originally published at Eos. The publication contributed the article to Space.com's Expert Voices: Op-Ed & Insights .

Imagine the catastrophic winds of a category 5 hurricane. Now, imagine even faster winds of more than 100 meters per second, encircling the planet and whipping clouds across the sky, with no end in sight. This scenario would be astonishing on Earth, but it's business as usual on Venus, where the atmosphere at cloud level rotates about 60 times faster than the planet itselfa phenomenon known as superrotation. In contrast, Earth's cloud-level atmosphere rotates at about the same speed as the planet's surface.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Prior research has explored the mechanisms driving atmospheric superrotation on Venus, but the details remain murky. New evidence from Lai et al. suggests that a once-daily atmospheric tidal cycle, fueled by heat from the sun, contributes much more to the planet's extreme winds than previously thought.

Rapid atmospheric rotation often occurs on rocky planets that, like Venus, are located relatively close to their stars and rotate very slowly. On Venus, one full rotation takes 243 Earth days. Meanwhile, the atmosphere races around the planet in a mere 4 Earth days.

To better understand this superrotation, the researchers analyzed data collected between 2006 and 2022 by the European Space Agency's Venus Express satellite and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Akatsuki satellite, which both studied Venus's atmosphere by detecting how it bends radio waves . The research team also simulated superrotation using a numerical model of Venus's atmosphere .

The analysis focused specifically on thermal tidesone of several atmospheric processes, alongside meridional circulation and planetary waves , whose interactions have previously been shown to sustain Venus's superrotation by transporting momentum. Thermal tides are patterns of air movement that occur when sunlight heats air on the dayside of a planet. Venusian thermal tides can be broken into two major components: diurnal tides, which follow a cyclical pattern repeating once per Venusian day, and semidiurnal tides, which have two cycles per day.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Earlier research suggested that semidiurnal tides are the main thermal tide component involved in superrotation. However, this studywhich includes the first analysis of thermal tides in Venus's southern hemispherefound that diurnal tides play a primary role in transporting momentum toward the tops of Venus's thick clouds, suggesting diurnal tides are major contributors to the rapid winds.

Though the researchers note that further clarification of the contributions of diurnal tides is needed, the work sheds new light on Venuss extreme winds and could aid meteorological research on other slowly rotating planets.
Federal investigators are uncovering new details about the Afghan immigrant accused of ambushing two West Virginia National Guard members in downtown Washington, D.C., in what authorities are now treating as a suspected act of terrorism.

The shooting unfolded shortly after 2:15 p.m. Wednesday outside the Farragut West Metro Station, just blocks from the White House. One victim, Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, has died from her injuries, officials confirmed. The second Guardsman, Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, 24, remains in critical condition.

The suspected gunman, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, was taken into custody after being subdued by two National Guard members, one of whom was armed only with a pocket knife.

The Suspect: A Former CIA-Backed Paramilitary Member

Multiple outlets report that Lakanwal previously served in NDS-03, one of Afghanistans CIA-backed Zero Units, an elite paramilitary wing trained for counterterrorism raids and night strikes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A cousin told the Associated Press he began as a security guard in 2012 before becoming a team leader and GPS specialist. Human Rights Watch previously accused elements of the Zero Units of abuses during the war, allegations the CIA has denied.

Updated Immigration Timeline: Reuters Says He Was Granted Asylum

Federal law enforcement sources previously told multiple outlets that Lakanwal had been out of status since his humanitarian parole expired in 2023 and was only waiting on an asylum claim.

However, Reuters reported Thursday that Lakanwal had in fact been granted asylum in the United States, according to sources with direct knowledge of his file.

Reuters also reported that DHS has begun a sweeping review of all Afghan asylum approvals granted under the Biden administration. Federal officials have not said whether Lakanwals case was among those flagged for additional scrutiny.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The news contradicts earlier statements indicating he was present in the country illegally.

Before the confirmation from Reuters, officials had said his:

Humanitarian parole (Operation Allies Welcome) began in 2021 and expired in September 2023

No extension had been granted

Asylum application was pending

He lived in Bellingham, Washington, with his wife and five children. Neighbors told the New York Post the family kept to themselves, owned few belongings, and spoke limited English. FBI agents reportedly forced entry during a Wednesday raid.

Cross-Country Trip and the Ambush

Investigators believe Lakanwal drove nearly 3,000 miles from Bellingham to D.C. in the days before the attack. It remains unclear when he departed or whether he made stops along the way.

The Shooting

Authorities say Lakanwal:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Waited near 17th and I Street NW , beside the Farragut West entrance

Allegedly approached two armed Guardsmen

Produced a .357 Smith & Wesson revolver

Fired multiple rounds, striking Beckstrom in the head and chest and Wolfe in the torso

CBS News reported the suspect had only four rounds and allegedly attempted to continue firing by grabbing Beckstroms weapon.

One Guardswoman Dead, One Critically Injured

Both Guardsmen underwent emergency surgery.

Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20

Enlisted June 2023

Military Police

Volunteered to serve Wednesday so other soldiers could be with family for Thanksgiving

Her father told The New York Times earlier in the week that she had suffered a mortal wound and was unlikely to recover. She died from her injuries on Thursday.

Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, 24

Enlisted February 2019

Decorated airman

Remains in critical condition after being shot in the torso

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Brigadier General Leland D. Blanchard II said both families are forever changed by the attack.

How the Suspect Was Stopped

According to CBS News and law enforcement sources:

A National Guard major was making rounds nearby when gunfire erupted.

He moved toward the scene without a firearm, carrying only a pocket knife .

When Lakanwal paused to reload, the major charged, stabbing him several times in the head .

A fourth Guardsman arrived moments later and shot Lakanwal in the leg and buttocks.

Officers then detained the suspect.

CBS reported that the major heard Lakanwal yell Allahu akbar during the assault.

Charges and Federal Response

U.S. Attorney for D.C. Jeanine Pirro has charged Lakanwal with:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Assault with intent to kill while armed

Criminal possession of a weapon

Possession of a firearm during a crime of violence

Federal prosecutors are now expected to upgrade the charges to first-degree murder following Beckstroms death.

Attorney General Pam Bondi said prosecutors will seek the death penalty:

We will do everything in our power to seek the death penalty against that monster who should not have been in our country.

National Guard Deployment and Security Measures

Federal law enforcement expanded perimeter security zones, increased patrol patterns around federal buildings, and temporarily restricted vehicle access to key corridors near the White House, according to city and federal officials.

President Donald Trump ordered 500 additional National Guard troops into D.C.

FBI Director Kash Patel said the case is being investigated as a potential act of terrorism .

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser called it a targeted shooting.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Reagan National Airport briefly halted departures during the initial emergency response.

President Trump Calls for Permanent Pause on Migration From Third World Countries

President Donald Trump issued a lengthy Thanksgiving message late Thursday announcing that he intends to permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries, linking the announcement directly to the ambush on two National Guard members near the White House.

Trump wrote on Truth Social that U.S. immigration policy has eroded Americas quality of life and said the country needs time to fully recover.

I will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the U.S. system to fully recover, terminate all of the millions of Biden illegal admissions  and remove anyone who is not a net asset to the United States, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump also said he intends to:

 End all federal benefits and subsidies for noncitizens

 Denaturalize migrants who undermine domestic tranquility

 Deport any foreign national who is a public charge, security risk, or non-compatible with Western Civilization

 Reverse what he called millions of Biden-era entries

Only REVERSE MIGRATION can fully cure this situation, Trump added, wishing a Happy Thanksgiving to all, except those that hate, steal, murder, and destroy everything that America stands for.

His comments came after two West Virginia National Guard members were shot on Wednesday in what investigators say was a targeted ambush carried out by Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal.

New Developments

Specialist Sarah Beckstrom has died from her injuries.

Reuters reports the suspect had been granted U.S. asylum status.

Federal prosecutors preparing upgraded homicide charges.

National political reaction intensifies following President Trumps migration remarks.

USCIS halts Afghan immigration requests nationwide

Investigation Expands Coast to Coast

The FBI is examining:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lakanwals digital communications

Travel routes and gas purchases

Associates in Washington state and San Diego

Any ideological or operational motive

His history with the Zero Units

Potential prior threats or behavioral flags

No motive has been publicly confirmed.

Broader Scrutiny of Afghan Evacuee Vetting

The Department of Homeland Security has also halted all Afghan immigration and immigration-benefit processing nationwide pending a full review, according to Fox 5 DC. Officials said the pause will remain in place until further notice, citing security concerns raised by the attack.

Refugee and resettlement groups told the Associated Press they fear reprisals and community backlash following the attack, with several organizations reporting increased threats directed at Afghan evacuees in multiple states.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The attack has renewed questions about federal vetting of Afghan nationals admitted during the 2021 evacuation.

A prior inspector general review found dozens of initial watchlist alerts during the intake process  most later resolved  but concerns about screening gaps have persisted.

Federal officials have not announced policy changes.

This is a developing story. The Dallas Express will continue to update as new information becomes available.
One of the two National Guard members shot in a targeted ambush shooting Wednesday afternoon blocks from the White House has died, President Donald Trump said Thursday evening.

Sarah Beckstrom, 20, died of her wounds, Trump said during a Thanksgiving Day phone call with U.S. troops.

The president said he received news of the death just before speaking.

I heard that Sarah Beckstrom of West Virginia, one of the guardsmen that were talking about  highly respected, young, magnificent person, started service in June of 2023 outstanding in every way  shes just passed away, shes no longer with us. Shes looking down at us right now, Trump said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The other National Guard member was identified as Andrew Wolfe, who Trump said was fighting for his life and in very bad shape.

Sarah Beckstrom, left, and Andrew Wolfe, the National Guard members who were shot on Wednesday in Washington D.C. (Nathan Howard / Reuters)

Both are from the West Virginia National Guard, Jeanine Pirro, the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, said at a Thursday news conference.

Beckstrom and Wolfe were serving on the D.C. Safe and Beautiful Mission when they were shot around 2:15 p.m. Wednesday, the West Virginia National Guard said in a news release.

The shooting occurred less than 24 hours after they were deputized to maintain their status to conduct presence patrols, said a spokesperson for the joint task force investigating the shooting.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Wolfe is hospitalized in critical condition.

The suspected gunman, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, was also shot and taken to a hospital. He now faces a first-degree murder charge.

The CIA said that Lakanwal, an Afghan national, worked with U.S. forces during the war in Afghanistan.

A picture of Rahmanullah Lakanwal on display at a press conference presented by FBI Director Kash Patel, on Thursday. (Nathan Howard / Reuters)

Wolfe, 24, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, entered service on Feb. 5, 2019, the joint task force said. He is a U.S. Air Force staff sergeant assigned to the Force Support Squadron, 167th Airlift Wing.

Beckstrom, of Webster Springs, West Virginia, entered service on June 26, 2023. She was assigned to the 863rd Military Police Company, the 111th Engineer Brigade, and is a U.S. Army specialist.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The National Guard said that they had been deployed to D.C. since August after Trump ordered troops to the city as part of his crackdown on crime.

Her father, Gary Beckstrom, paid tribute on Facebook writing: My baby girl has passed to glory. ... This has been a horrible tragedy.

Beckstroms father previously told The New York Times that she had a mortal wound and likely wouldnt recover.

Im holding her hand right now, Gary Beckstrom said. Its not going to be a recovery.

Beckstroms family did not immediately respond to NBC News requests for comment.

Jason Wolfe, Wolfes father, declined to comment, but added, Just pray for my son.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
JERUSALEM, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- The Israel Defense Forces on Friday said it has found the bodies of nine Palestinian militants killed in tunnels in the southern Gaza Strip.

The Israeli army said in a statement that the bodies were found in the underground "terror" infrastructure in eastern Rafah, adding that the militants were most likely killed during the army's ongoing efforts to dismantle the infrastructure sites through aerial strikes and "engineering measures."

According to the Israeli army, over 30 militants who attempted to flee the underground infrastructure in eastern Rafah have been killed so far.

It added that the pursuit of militants fleeing the tunnels continues.

Hamas on Wednesday urged mediators to press Israel to allow safe passage for dozens of its fighters trapped in tunnels in southern Gaza -- the first public admission by the group that its members were cornered underground.

Israeli media have reported for weeks that 100 to 200 Hamas militants remain stuck in a tunnel network under Rafah, in territory now controlled by Israeli forces. 
Your phone buzzes and you glance at an incoming alert: The mail carrier just delivered a much-awaited package  a gift for a loved one  depositing it, unguarded, on your front porch.

But by the time you arrive home from work, the package has vanished. You scour the porch in the hopes it's just tucked away out of sight, but the box is nowhere to be found.

As online shopping has become the default means by which many Americans obtain big-ticket items and everyday essentials alike, the number of package thefts has soared.

As packages are delivered this holiday season, the Springfield community is urged to be wary of "porch pirates."

Across the Midwest, so-called porch pirates brazenly target unattended packages, particularly during the holiday season as gifts pile up outside homes and apartments.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

National consumer surveys and crime data illustrate the scope of the problem: Between 2024 and 2025, thieves are estimated to have bilked more than 100 million packages, costing American consumers a whopping $14.9 billion.

A review of package theft data by the residential security company SimpliSafe found that over the past year, porch pirates made off with about 250,000 packages each day in the United States, a sky-high figure that still constituted a 13% year-over-year decline.

Springfield Police Sgt. Clint Collier, the property crimes supervisor, said package theft is a city-wide problem that is a "crime of opportunity." He said perpetrators typically follow delivery trucks and steal packages soon after they're delivered. The stolen goods are then quickly sold either at pawn shops, on social media or on the street as a way to turn a quick profit.

On average, SPD sees two to four reports of stolen packages per week. Collier said there are not particular areas of town that are more prone to porch pirates, nor are there any real trends as far as who is responsible.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"There are people that probably commit that same crime more and more, just because they get good at it and, it's like anything, they find a way to specialize in it," he said.

One of the main challenges in solving these crimes, Collier said, is the lack of witnesses.

Tips to protect packages and valuables this holiday season

During the holidays, Collier said it is common to see an uptick in package theft as more people opt for the ease of online shopping. But there are several precautions that online shoppers can take to prevent becoming the next porch pirate victims.

Collier advised camera and home security systems that record video are the primary way to make sure perpetrators are caught. He said while many residents have doorbell cameras, these don't always record and store video footage, which limits how helpful they can be in an investigation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Opting for a delivery to a workplace, to a neighbor that you know will be home, or at an apartment complex leasing office are good ways to avoid packages being left in plain sight, Collier said. While lighting your front door is also helpful, he said most package thefts occur during the day when packages are delivered.

Having packages delivered to a P.O. box or requiring signature upon delivery are also ways to secure deliveries.

Springfield Police Department also has a camera location registry and the department encourages businesses and homeowners who have a camera system to register on SPD's website. SPD spokesperson Cris Swaters said registration does not allow officers to monitor camera footage, but instead gives them details about which locations to approach if a crime has occurred and video footage would be helpful in solving it. The form to register your camera can be found on SPD's website.

Those who believe their package may have been stolen should report the theft to SPD using the online crime report form available on the website at www.springfieldmo.gov/3791/File-Online-Police-Supplemental-Report.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

More: Forget something for Thanksgiving? These Springfield stores are open

Here are some other suggestions to protect valuable packages this holiday season:

Some online vendors such as Amazon operate single-use package lockers that customers can use even without the need to rent a P.O. box.

Provide delivery instructions when placing your order: Instruct the delivery service to deposit packages in a safe location out of view of the road or sidewalk.

Consider shipping high-dollar items to a local retailer, such as BestBuy, Target or Walmart, for in-store pick up.

Marta Mieze covers local government at the News-Leader. Have feedback, tips or story ideas? Contact her at mmieze@news-leader.com.

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Springfield police share tips for preventing holiday package theft
The main suspicion at this stage is that Binyamin assisted an associate in a particularly sensitive investigation.

Assistant-Chief Meni Binyamin, head of Lahav 433, will return to his post this coming Sunday despite the ongoing investigation into suspected breach of trust and misuse of official authority, Israel Police said on Thursday.

Earlier this month, the Justice Ministrys Police Internal Investigations Department detained Binyamin for questioning under caution.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The main suspicion at this stage is that Binyamin assisted an associate in a particularly sensitive investigation. Following the incident, the police commissioner appointed Deputy Superintendent Eli Makmel, head of the National Fraud Investigations Unit, as acting head in his place.

Binyamin began his career in the Border Police, later transferred to Israel Police, where he established and commanded the Yoav Unit. During his career, he served as commander of the Golan and Migdal HaEmek stations and as operations officer for the Northern District.

THE ISRAEL POLICE conducts its high-level investigations through Lahav 433, the countrys FBI, headquartered in this building in Lod. (credit: WIKIPEDIA)

He led one of the largest investigations conducted by Yamar North, the Ocean undercover operation, which ran for about a year and resulted in the largest volume of arrests and extensive weapons seizures.

Ben-Gvir publicly supports Benjamin's right to presumption of innocence

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir (Otzma Yehudit), who previously promoted Benjamin to the senior role in the police, expressed his support, emphasizing Benjamin's right to the presumption of innocence.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In his role as Lahav 433 head, Benjamin was taking the lead of the investigations into corruption at the Histadrut labor federation earlier this month.

Sarah Ben-Nun and Jerusalem Post Staff contributed to this report.
President Donald Trump says he wants to permanently pause migration from poorer nations and is promising to seek to expel millions of immigrants from the United States by revoking their legal status. He is blaming immigrants for problems from crime to housing shortages as part of social dysfunction in America and demanding REVERSE MIGRATION.

His most severe social media post against immigration since returning to the Oval Office in January came after two National Guard members were shot while patrolling the streets of the nations capital under his orders. One died and the other is in critical condition.

Since the shooting not far from the White House, administration officials have pledged to reexamine millions of legal immigrants, building on a 10-month campaign to reduce the immigrant population. In a lengthy social media post late Thursday, the Republican president asserted that millions of people born outside the U.S. and now living in the country bore a large share of the blame for Americas societal ills.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Here's the latest:

Refugee groups worry about backlash after shooting of National Guard soldiers in DC

People who work with refugees are worried that those who fled dangerous situations to start again in America will face backlash after authorities say an Afghan national shot two National Guard soldiers this week, killing one of them.

Many Afghans living in the U.S. are afraid to leave their houses, fearing theyll be swept up by immigration officials or attacked with hate speech, said Shawn VanDiver, president of the San Diego-based group #AfghanEvac, a group that helps resettle Afghans who assisted the U.S. during the two-decade war.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Theyre terrified. Its insane, VanDiver told The Associated Press Thursday. People are acting xenophobic because of one deranged man. He doesnt represent all Afghans. He represents himself.

 Read about what groups are saying in the shootings aftermath

Catch up on the latest headlines

AP Morning Wire curates the most important stories and sends them straight to your inbox. Sign up for the free newsletter here.

 Trump says one of the two West Virginia National Guard members shot by Afghan national has died

 What we do and dont know about the shooting of 2 National Guard members in DC

 Trump criticizes the program that brought Afghan refugees to the U.S. who fought the Taliban  Refugee groups worry about backlash after shooting of National Guard soldiers in DC  A look at the National Guard presence since Trump sent troops to Washington in August  2 Virginia brothers allegedly plotted to kill ICE agents, Homeland Security says  Court transcripts show Border Patrol official Greg Bovino dodging questions about use of force

 Federal judge expands access to bond hearings for detained immigrants nationwide
Hacked materials from the powerful rightwing thinktank the Heritage Foundation show that applicants to a Project 2025-branded effort to create a talent pool for the Trump administration cited the influence of Nazi political theorists and other far-right thinkers on their political views.

Not all applicants revealed in the hack ended up with Trump administration jobs, but some current appointees did make applications.

And amid a developing civil war on the right about the influence of the antisemitic far right  which has included internal dissension at Heritage  the materials show that at least seven members of a nationwide network of men-only, nativist and antisemitic clubs applied to work in the administration, revealing the extent to which the Republicans and the far-right have converged.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hannah Gais, a senior analyst at the civil rights organization the Southern Poverty Law center, told the Guardian: Given Project 2025s reactionary goals, its no surprise that these applicants would cite any myriad of influences peddling such authoritarian and anti-democratic rhetoric.

Gais added: These are the fruits of the strategy that some activists have embraced of no enemies to the right. But its nevertheless telling that these applicants felt safe citing such radical figures.

The database and the hack

Project 2025 was a policy project by Heritage designed to influence and power the agenda of the second Trump administration along radical conservative lines.

One of the pillars of Project 2025 as it developed throughout 2023 and 2024 was to create a pool of politically-aligned candidates for staffing the new administration, according to media reports in 2024.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At that time, Project 2025 director Paul Dans said that the database was akin to a conservative LinkedIn, full of potential recruits likely to be a good fit for a Republican administration. Dans aimed to assemble some 20,000 potential recruits.

One way in which the database was grown was Heritages invitation for applications to the Presidential Administration Academy. The academy, and the open application process, were widely publicized in conservative media in early 2024.

Videos from that academys training curriculum leaked in August 2024, significantly raising public awareness of Project 2025.

The materials analyzed by the Guardian are applications for the Presidential Administration Academy. It contains 13,726 applications, a small minority of which are clearly intended to lampoon Heritage and the Trump movement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Applicants were asked to characterize their political beliefs according to a drop-down menu, spell out their political philosophy, identify the primary influence on their politics, to name a book and a public figure who had influenced them, and then to say whether they agreed with political proposals such as whether the US should increase legal immigration.

Project 2025 was subject to a series of cybersecurity incidents from mid-2024.

In June 2025, the transparency non-profit Distributed Denial of Secrets (DDOSecrets) released the contents of a database containing more than 13,000 submissions to an online application form by individuals interested in working on the Project 2025 initiative. The identity of the hackers is unknown.

The Guardian sourced the data from DDOSecrets and analysed it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

All individuals named in this reporting were contacted for comment via contact information in their applications, and professional email addresses where these were available.

Sources at Heritage said they would not know the political views of applicants applying through a public link nor be able to screen them.

A Heritage spokesman said: The Guardian is a leftist gossip rag. Its dishonesty is matched only by its uselessness. We dont waste time answering its half-baked questions.

Carl Schmitt

Dozens of applicants expressed admiration for Carl Schmitt, a German political theorist who has been called the crown jurist of the Third Reich and whose intellectual legacy is inseparable from his collaboration with the Nazi regime.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ville Suuronen, a research fellow at the University of Turku in Finland who has written extensively on Schmitts legal and political theories, said: After Schmitt joined the Nazi party in late April of 1933, he revolutionized his legal theory according to the ideological principles of National Socialism and did everything he could to legitimize the Nazi party and the policies of Adolf Hitler.

Suuronen added: Schmitt legitimized the murders of Night of the Long Knives by describing Hitler as the highest judge in Germany, and also characterized the Nuremberg Laws as the constitution of freedom and organized a deeply antisemitic conference The Jewry in Legal Science in Berlin in October 1936.

Applicants who cite Schmitt include Paul Ingrassia, who was last week tapped for a new job as deputy general counsel of the General Services Administration, leaving his former role as White House liaison to the Department of Homeland Security.

Last month, Ingrassias nomination for special counsel to the United States foundered after group chats leaked in which he told other participants that he had a Nazi streak and that holidays commemorating Black people should be eviscerated.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Intercept reported in July that Ingrassias application was a part of the Project 2025 trove, but did not mention his expression of admiration for Schmitts books.

In the application, Ingrassia listed Carl Schmitts Concept of the Political, Political Theology, and Constitutional Theory among the books that had influenced him.

Ingrassias sister, Olivia Ingrassia, also now works in the Trump administration, also had a Project 2025 application exposed in the hack, and also cited Schmitt as an influence.

According to her LinkedIn account, Ingrassia has worked in the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) since August, after completing a four-month internship there earlier this year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Under director Russell Vought, who once said of federal workers We want to put them in trauma, the OMB has aggressively moved to dismantle federal agencies and consolidate executive power. Theres no suggestion that Vought himself has praised Carl Schmitt.

Other Schmitt-positive applicants include a Heritage employee who has since landed in the administration. Max Matheu is now an attorney adviser at the State Department, according to his LinkedIn page.

Last year, he was still lead attorney in the Heritage Foundations own Oversight Project. Previously, he served as a congressional intern for Florida congresswoman Laurel Lee, and controversial former legislator Matt Gaetz, according to congressional information service LegiStorm.

For Heritage, he acted as an attorney in several Freedom of Information Act (Foia) suits brought against the US government following up on the blizzard of tens of thousands of Foia requests Heritage made during the life of the Biden administration.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In his Project 2025 application, in response to a question about which books have influenced him, Matheu nominated The Concept of the Political by Carl Schmitt, adding that The friend/enemy distinction is the cardinal concept that undergirds all politics. The Left has been making the distinction since Gramsci and other cultural marxists captured the media and academic institutions to subvert Heritage Americans and the shared ideals this country once held.

Matheus use of Heritage Americans invokes a slogan popular on the new nativist right that supports Donald Trump and the Maga movement. Critics have said it can be used to convey white nationalist sentiments in softer language, though Matheu does not identify as a white nationalist in his application.

Elsewhere in his application, Matheu wrote: Our specific social, cultural, and religious heritage define American politics. Our shared cultural identity is necessary to achieve the common good and share a unified political vision for conservative politics.

The Guardian reached out to Matheu directly for comment. A State Department spokesperson replied that in the future the Guardian should feel free to submit a formal inquiry rather than contact the individual via their personal email.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They added: The essay highlights how the left adopted and applied Schmitts philosophy against Americans, hijacking and corrupting traditional nonpartisan institutions like the media to expand its power, a reply that appeared to bear little relationship to Matheus application.

On the friend-enemy distinction, Suuronen, the academic critic of Schmitt, said For Schmitt, the ideals underlying liberalism  not only rational discussion, but also the idea of inviolable and universal human rights  were nothing but an illusion, and he developed a theory of the political, according to which the fundamental political distinction was that between the friend and the enemy. For Schmitt, politics was not about individuals, but about the potentially violent confrontations of homogeneous groups.

Other applicants teamed apparently racist sentiments with invocations of Schmitt.

Joe Amato, a former Publius fellow at the right-wing Claremont Institute listed as a member of Project 2025s advisory board in the Mandate for Leadership document it published in 2023 and currently chief of staff at an AI-driven law and regulation startup, according to his LinkedIn bio, wrote in his application that Carl Schmitts The Concept of the Political has most shaped my political philosophy for the moment we live in. Its central thesis is that the core of politics is the friend-enemy distinction.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He added: Given that the Left is waging an all out war against the Right, we must remember this distinction in all our actions. No Leftist or Democrat is our friend, nor any Republicans who oppose the America First agenda. If those on the Right want to actually win, we must support those friendly to us, and ruthlessly destroy our enemies.

In the application, he echoed beliefs associated with the Great Replacement conspiracy theory, writing, Its clear that the Democratic Party is importing a blue wave of voters to illegally register. This unprecedented wave of migration is nothing short of a barbarian invasion  Cities will be overrun and become like third world slums. Our women and young women will be raped and sexually assaulted. Our young men will be attacked.

According to his Claremont Institute biography, Amato received an inaugural Passage Prize for poetry.

In May 2024, the Guardian identified Jonathan Keeperman as the founder of Passage Press, the far-right publisher that sponsored the Passage Prize.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Guardian has also reported extensively on Claremonts ties with a secretive far-right men-only network of fraternal lodges, the emergence of its board chair and biggest funder as a conservative megadonor, and its links to JD Vance staffers.

Claremonts links to the Trump movement have seen it labeled as the nerve center of the American right.

Gais, the SPLC analyst, wrote Even just within the United States, Schmitts theories have nurtured any number of anti-democratic impulses, ranging from the war on terror to the Maga rights extreme rhetoric against the left.

Bukele

Dozens of other applicants expressed their admiration for El Salvadors authoritarian president, Nayib Bukele.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Bukeles brutal prison system came into focus earlier this year when the Trump administration summarily deported hundreds of Venezuelans and Salvadorans to that country. According to a humanitarian organizations, some 250 of those deported endured systematic torture.

One applicant, Jackson Kitchin, now serves as a federal law clerk in the eastern district of North Carolina according to his LinkedIn profile, and previously clerked for the supreme court of North Carolina and the US Senate judiciary committee, according to his LinkedIn and the website of his alma mater, George Washington University Law School.

In his Project 2025 application, Kitchin wrote that Bukele has shown the world that morality is objective, that societies which understand this prosper, and that decline is a choice. He has been outspoken in his belief that Gods will ought to be done, and that political leaders ought to actively seek out Gods will.

He added: Bukele has defied a global majority which claimed these things could not be done. The same voices make similar claims about the United States. It is my fervent belief that we can prove them wrong as well.

He looked forward to a time when the US president likewise had more centralized power, writing Over the last fifty years, our nation has seen an attack on the Article II powers of the Presidency. Over the course of this attack, the President has been stripped of his authority to see that the laws are faithfully executed. 

On the law, Kitchin wrote: Any institution which reflects Gods moral order will govern a more virtuous people, achieving societal prosperity.

Another Bukele admirer, Justin Henle, now works as a staffer for the House administration committee under Wisconsin according to Legistorm. Previously, he worked as a intern for Virginia Republican, Bob Good.

In his application, he described Bukele as a public figure I admire whose tough on crime measures brought El-Salvador into a period of prosperity and safety.

Fringe figures

Several applicants nominated Jared Taylor as an influence on their thought. Taylor is a prominent white nationalist, and the founder of the American Renaissance website, journal, and annual conference. For decades, Taylor has denied that he is a white supremacist.

Others found inspiration from other, lesser-known far-right figures.

One is a senior figure in for the New Hampshire Department of Corrections, according to a LinkedIn page and the departments staff directory.

In their application, they express admiration for Neema Parvini, a current British writer who, according to UK anti-fascist non-profit Hope Not Hate, lost an academic position over his far-right activism, has attended far-right conferences, and claimed on social media that black and white people are different species.

They wrote that Parvinis book the Populist Delusion is A thorough and concise overview of political philosophers from history which more directly addressed the myriad problems faced by our nation and some of the mechanisms by which Trump was prevented from governing successfully.

Elsewhere in the application, they said I gravitate towards antebellum writers more than modern ones, and said that the Fourteenth Amendment, passed in the wake of the civil war and granting citizenship to formerly enslaved people, should be repealed, since Nearly all of our modern problems are descended from this verbose and destructive inversion of sovereignty signed under duress.

The Old Glory Club

There were at least seven applicants who the Guardian identified as members of the far-right, men-only secret society, the Old Glory Club, although none of them appear to have been offered jobs in the administration so far.

Although none appear to have gone on to find employment in the Trump regime, they made little attempt to hide their nativist views.

Last July, the Guardian reported that the Old Glory Club had established at least 26 clubs nationwide, had ties with similar far-right groups in the UK and antisemitic activists, had held in-person meetups, and represented a new breed of extremist organisation which aims first to build an offline social network before taking over society.

Ryan Turnipseed is a founding member of the Old Glory Club who appears to have made an application to Heritage that includes his personal email address and phone number.

In describing his beliefs, Turnipseed wrote that he supported Freedom of association and the right to discriminate. They are both one and the same, just worded differently. He added: I believe that ones freedom to associate is vital for a healthy, productive, sane, and morally upright civilization, and that the enshrining of anti-discrimination laws into the American legal system has been disastrous.

In February 2023, Turnipseed was identified by antifascist researchers as a member of what they called a rising white supremacist faction within the Lutheran faith. Later that month, the president of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod called for the excommunication of those propagating radical and unchristian alt-right views.

The Guardian cross-referenced application materials with company records for the Old Glory Club umbrella organization and local chapters to identify six other members who had applied to Project 2025.

The best public interest journalism relies on first-hand accounts from people in the know.

If you have something to share on this subject, you can contact us confidentially using the following methods.

Secure Messaging in the Guardian app

The Guardian app has a tool to send tips about stories. Messages are end to end encrypted and concealed within the routine activity that every Guardian mobile app performs. This prevents an observer from knowing that you are communicating with us at all, let alone what is being said.

If you don't already have the Guardian app, download it (iOS/Android) and go to the menu. Select Secure Messaging.

SecureDrop, instant messengers, email, telephone and post

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.
At least 56 people have been killed and 21 are missing in Sri Lanka after floods and landslides triggered by heavy rains wreaked havoc this week, in one of its worst weather related disasters the country has seen in recent years.

Twenty-one people were killed in the central tea-growing district of Badulla when a landslide crashed onto their homes overnight, the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) said in a statement.

Cyclone Ditwah brushed the island nation's eastern coast on Friday, brining more rains.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Videos uploaded to social media show houses being washed away as flood waters cascade through towns, while most train services have been cancelled across the country.

Ditwa began as a deep depression but later intensified into a cyclone.

In Sri Lanka, river levels are continuing to rise and the DMC has warned residents in low-lying areas to move to higher ground. A red level flood warning has been issued for the low-lying areas of the Kelani River valley within the next 48 hours, the Irrigation Department said. Areas at risk include the capital, Colombo.

During a parliamentary session on Friday, Sri Lankan MP Ajith Perera raised concerns about an emergency situation reportedly involving a stranded bus.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I have been getting multiple reports of a bus that has been stranded near the Kala Wewa [a major reservoir complex in central Sri Lanka] for one and a half hours," he said, urging the government to facilitate the approval of a helicopter to rescue the passengers.

In response, Minister of Justice Harshana Nanayakkara confirmed that the bus was stranded. He told lawmakers that police had instructed the bus to halt its journey because conditions were too dangerous to continue.

Armed forces had already been deployed, and a helicopter had been authorised for the rescue, he added.

"They will be rescued," he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In Anuradhapura, a military helicopter conducted three operations on Friday morning to rescue people stranded by the adverse weather and the overflow of the Kala Wewa.

The helicopter successfully airlifted a man who had been sheltering atop a coconut tree overnight, the Sri Lankan Air Force said.

Ditwa began as a deep depression but later intensified into a cyclone [AFP via Getty Images]

More than 200mm (7.8in) of rain is expected in some central and northern parts of the island on Friday, Sri Lanka's met office said.

Key roads connecting provinces have been closed and the Railway Department has announced that all trains, except for a few essential services, have been cancelled from 06:00 on Friday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The DMC said that almost 44,000 people have been affected by the extreme weather. Around 20,500 army troops have been deployed to provide relief and rescue operations across the country.

Students sitting for the Advanced Level Exams - also known as the A-levels - have also have their exams postponed as a result.

Sri Lanka is currently experiencing its monsoon season but it is rare for the island to see extreme weather on this level.

The worst flooding this century in Sri Lanka was in June 2003 when 254 people were killed and hundreds of thousands were displaced.

The flooding comes as South East Asia is also facing some of the worst floods the region has seen in years, with millions impacted across Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand.

Indonesian authorities have counted 127 people dead while Thai officials said the death toll there had risen to 145.
The Department of Homeland Security received nearly 17,000 comments on its proposed H-1B visa lottery reform, revealing broad support for reform across the political spectrum.

The proposal, titled Weighted Selection Process for Registrants and Petitioners Seeking to File Cap-Subject H-1B Petitions, would replace the current random lottery for 85,000 annual H-1B visas with a system giving priority to higher-wage positions.

Registrants for unique beneficiaries would be entered into a weighted selection pool based on wage levels, with the highest-wage positions having the greatest odds of selection. The plan also addresses the advanced degree exemption and procedures for suspensions of the registration system.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The H-1B visa program allows U.S. employers to hire foreign workers for specialty occupations requiring at least a bachelors degree. Under current law, 65,000 visas are available annually, with an additional 20,000 for workers holding U.S. masters degrees or higher. DHS said the reform aims to incentivize employers to offer higher wages and hire more skilled workers while maintaining opportunities at all wage levels, per the agencys proposal.

Hundreds of public comments reviewed by The Dallas Express skewed overwhelmingly negative or called for reform, with both Republican and Democratic voices criticizing the program.

Several commenters, including college students and advocacy groups, called for the programs elimination or major overhaul.

Fran Rhodes, president of the True Texas Project, urged the program be paused or abolished, citing abuse and underpayment of American workers. 

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The program is riddled with fraud and abuse, and puts American workers at a disadvantage, while creating a financial advantage for the companies hiring foreign workers at a lower pay scale, Rhodes wrote.

Rhodes suggested adjusting the weighted system to favor countries with standards of living closer to the U.S., to account for unemployment in relevant fields, and to penalize companies that have laid off workers or received federal subsidies.

On the opposite side of the political spectrum, a left-leaning think tank reached a similar conclusion. The Economic Policy Institutes (EPI) comment described the program as deeply flawed and in desperate need of reform, before noting that U.S. employers do not have to recruit U.S. workers before hiring H-1B workers and U.S. employers can legally underpay H-1B workers.

EPI gave a qualified endorsement, explaining, Using a wage level prioritization allocation for H-1B visas is reasonable and consistent with the H-1B statute, and it should be the preferred method for allocation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

However, the organization called for an allocation scheme that favored registrations with the highest wage premium, after controlling for occupation and geography, so high-paid software developers in San Francisco were not always favored over software developers or accountants in Cleveland.

This meeting of the minds was foreshadowed earlier this year when Republican Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa and Democratic Senator Dick Durbin of Illinois joined together to excoriate Amazon for using H-1B labor while laying off American workers, The Dallas Express reported.

Their exchange preceded a wave of attacks from Democratic Ohio gubernatorial candidate Amy Acton against Republican competitor Vivek Ramaswamy for his characterization of American workers while supporting the H-1B program, DX reported.

Many American students and workers were intensely critical of the program.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Josh M., a self-identified college student working in technology, wrote that the H-1B program should be abolished or phased out over several years, arguing that qualified Americans could fill the positions currently held by visa holders.

Some academic and healthcare voices defended the current program.

The Association of American Universities comment urged DHS to reconsider the rule to avoid disrupting the pipeline between F-1 students and H-1B employment. The American Hospital Association highlighted challenges for rural and underserved hospitals in paying higher wages while maintaining access to critical staff.

The National Small Business Association warned that early-career workers could face diminished opportunities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At least a dozen commenters with no clear organizational affiliation suggested raising the minimum H-1B wage to $175,000 to protect U.S. workers. Meanwhile, no credible comments were identified from Amazon or Nvidia, two of the largest H-1B employers.

The public comment period on the rule closed November 24, 2025. DHS will now review the nearly 17,000 submissions before issuing a final rule.
A coalition of 21 attorneys general sued the US Department of Agriculture on Wednesday in an effort to block recent guidance from the agency that declared some immigrants, including refugees and those granted asylum, ineligible for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, benefits.

New York Attorney General Letitia James, who led the coalition of other Democratic attorneys general, said in a statement that the Trump administration is illegally cutting off the benefits - also known as food stamps - for tens of thousands of lawful permanent residents.

"The federal government's shameful quest to take food away from children and families continues," James said in the statement. "USDA has no authority to arbitrarily cut entire groups of people out of the SNAP program, and no one should go hungry because of the circumstances of their arrival to this country."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The attorney general from Washington, DC, and the following states joined in on the lawsuit: Oregon, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington and Wisconsin.

On October 31, the USDA provided new guidance to states narrowing SNAP eligibility, aligning with rollbacks of the program outlined in President Donald Trump's domestic policy law that passed earlier this year.

The attorneys general argue in the lawsuit that the memo goes beyond what the law prescribes since it would make anyone who entered the country through humanitarian protection programs permanently ineligible for food stamps, even if they become legal residents.

According to the lawsuit, some immigrant groups are exempt from the rule that requires lawful permanent residents to have lived in the US for five years before receiving benefits.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"The problem is that the Guidance lists some, but not all, of the conditions that render an (lawful permanent resident) immediately eligible for SNAP without a five-year waiting period," the attorneys general said in the lawsuit. "It omits key categories of Humanitarian Immigrant Groups, like Refugees and Individuals Granted Asylum."

Some groups that are exempt from the waiting period but not listed in the guidance include "Certain Afghan and Ukrainian Parolees, Iraqi and Afghan Special Immigrants (SIV), and Victims of Severe Trafficking," according to the lawsuit.

The group of attorneys general warn that the USDA's guidance, which prompts a swift overhaul of eligibility systems, "threatens to destabilize SNAP nationwide," and could put significant financial strain on states that would have to shoulder the cost of fines.

The attorneys general also slammed the USDA for starting the 120-day exclusion period for the guidance on the day Trump's policy law went into effect instead of the day the agency issued the guidance. The 120-day period expired on November 1 - just one day after the guidance was sent to the states, they said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The lawsuit asks a federal judge in Oregon to vacate and block the implementation of the USDA's guidance.

A spokesperson for USDA declined to comment on "pending litigation."

Prior to the lawsuit, James and other attorneys general asked the USDA last week to "correct" the guidance and provide "clarity on SNAP eligibility," to which the agency didn't respond, Wednesday's statement said.

The filing comes just days after a federal judge in Virginia dismissed an indictment against James, whom Trump has viewed as a political opponent.

----------

* Get Eyewitness News Delivered

* Follow us on YouTube

* More local news

* Send us a news tip

* Download the abc7NY app for breaking news alerts

Submit a tip or story idea to Eyewitness News

Have a breaking news tip or an idea for a story we should cover? Send it to Eyewitness News using the form below. If attaching a video or photo, terms of use apply.
Detroit Lions fans pack into Ford Field on Jan 21, 2024, for the Lions' second home playoff game, in which they took on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. (Andrew Roth/Michigan Advance)

Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta and his wife, Callie LaPorta, sent a letter earlier this month to state legislators in support of Queenies Law, a bill that seeks to ban all experimentation on dogs in Michigan public institutions.

The bill was introduced in the state Senate by Sen. Paul Wojno (D-Warren) and in the House by Rep. Joe Aragona (R-Clinton Twp.) in March. The legislation sits in committee in both chambers, though in late October it moved out of the House Committee on Regulatory Reform to the House Committee on Rules.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dogs used in labs are no different than our incredible rescue pup Bonnie, the letter from the LaPortas states, quoted in a press release circulated by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine.

The group added that the couple is thankful that science is moving away from dog experimentation.

The letter urged House Speaker Matt Hall and Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks to prioritize and advance the legislation, which is named after a dog that died after being used in experiments at Wayne State University.

Michigans dogs are lucky to have Sam and Callie on their side, said Ryan Merkley, director of research advocacy for the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, which worked with the LaPortas on the letter. Taxpayers shouldnt be forced to foot the bill for painful, dead-end dog experiments.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Other celebrities have also expressed support for the legislation, including actors Lily Tomlin and Ernie Hudson, who appeared in a TV ad in support of the bill.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
Taking care of 20 alpacas is easy work, said Anne Stallcup. The South American cousin of the camel is clean, low-maintenance and so easy tempered she calls them therapeutic.

Operating a small business is a different story.

Especially when youve got, you know, Jeff Bezos to deal with, she said.

Stallcups Que Sera Alpacas ranch and Ghilie Dhu Ranch, whose 30 combined alpacas share grazing property in Eldorado, will be holding an event this weekend in celebration of Small Business Saturday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The main attraction, said Stallcup, operator and sole proprietor of Que Sera, is the alpacas themselves and the walks attendees can accompany them on. There will be wool-weaving demonstrations and sales from local fiber artisans  including wares utilizing the infamously soft alpaca wool.

112625 nb alpacas 02.JPG

Hand-dyed yarn is among the many wool produced and sold at Que Sera Alpacas. Other items include rugs, clothing, bowls, ornaments and toys.

Attendees will also find a food truck and live music from local country and blues musician Tim Styles.

 Were all going to have to pull together if were going to make it, she said. I dont want the corporate overlords to run the world that I live in.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The event comes during a precarious time for local small businesses. The city has seen a slew of longtime staples shutter their doors in recent weeks citing economic downturn and consumer apprehension, including the surprise closure of El Farol, a Canyon Road bar and restaurant that first opened when Santa Fe was still part of Mexico.

Everyones holding on because theyre expecting the world to end, said Craig Allen, an owner of Santa Fes True West Gallery, who last week announced the business would close its doors and transition to an online- and appointment-only sales model.

But for Stallcup, 74, the impacts of big business have already come for her industry.

Most of the yarn shops in town have closed because people are ordering it online  which I dont understand, she said, as she picked up an almost 2-pound bag of wool sheared from one of her animals priced at $25.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I need to feel it, she said. I need to feel how soft it is before I buy it.

Stallcup, who bought the ranch in 2008, said she noticed the first real downturn in sales during the COVID-19 pandemic, a time she noted made even serious local artisans comfortable with sourcing their materials online. She did, however, note a surge in alpaca sales at the time from people working from home who wanted something else to do.

Since the downturn, she has noticed a slight uptick from tourists seeking something off the beaten path and local crafters aiming to lend support to a business like hers.

112625 nb alpacas 03.JPG

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Anne Stallcup, owner of Que Sera Alpacas, shakes out an alpaca fur rug outside her storefront at her farm on Wednesday. Several dozen alpacas live on the farm and provide grade 1 alpaca fur that Stallcup and her staff use to create a range of products from clothing to ornaments.

Adjacent to her alpaca pastures, her shops shelves are stocked with dyed yarns, crafts like crocheted hats and whole bags of wool sheared during the animals yearly haircuts.

Overlooking customers is a long row of alpaca awards stretching the length of the shop, many bestowed upon Vito  one of her very first alpacas and a much-decorated animal at alpaca shows. A large portrait of his fuzzy visage hangs overhead.

Stallcup bought Vitos mother in 2003; she gave birth to Vito a few months later.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He had a good run, she said of Vito, who died last week at the ripe alpaca age of 22.

Stallcup, originally a Louisiana native, had moved around the country working in property management until she decided that I made really bad decisions at sea level. She moved to Santa Fe 40 years ago and has been here ever since.

112625 nb alpacas 04.JPG

Flash Dancer, left, and Evangeline the alpacas enjoy the sun at Que Sera Alpacas on Wednesday.

She didnt know alpacas existed when she moved here. A friend invited her to an alpaca farm and just three months later, she owned a few of her own.

I fell madly in love with them, she recalled, noting that at her peak, she owned up to 95.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Standing in the pasture as she took turns greeting her gregarious, slender-necked animals, most of whom she raised from birth, she remarked on the lessons that could be learned from animals that take turns standing guard for each other and run interference to block her from catching one of their alpaca brethren.

I wish the human race would learn something from these guys, she said. Their herd dynamic is really wonderful  they take care of each other.
Art lovers from the UK, US and China hoping to admire the Mona Lisas enigmatic smile will have to shell out an extra 10 to do so next year.

The Louvre has decided to increase the price of admission for non-European visitors by 45% starting in 2026. From 14 January, nationals from outside the European Economic Area (EEA, which includes EU member states, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway) will have to pay 32 to visit the world's most visited museum - 10 more than the current admission price.

Approved on Thursday by the Louvre's board of directors, this increase will apply in particular to Americans, who make up the largest contingent of foreign visitors, but also to Chinese visitors, who rank third, according to the museum's 2024 activity report.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Louvre welcomed 8.7 million people last year, 69% of whom were from abroad.

Related

The price rise aims to raise up to 20 million a year to tackle "structural problems" and fund an overhaul of the world's most-visited art museum, which is still reeling from the daylight theft of priceless treasures last month.

On 19 October, a four-person gang raided the Louvre, taking just seven minutes to steal jewelry worth an estimated 88 million before fleeing on scooters. An official investigation indicated that security systems were inadequate, and that the museum had spent significantly more on buying new artworks but much less on maintenance and restoration.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Related

This price hike has been denounced by labour unions, which criticized the decision to scrap the universal entry fee for all nationalities. The CFDT, the largest national trade union federation in France, warned it would be perceived as "discrimination."

Other major French tourist attractions could soon follow suit. According to Frances Minister of Culture Rachida Dati, a differentiated pricing structure will be in place in 2026 for all national cultural operators.

The Palace of Versailles indicated that it is aslo considering increasing the price of individual visits by 3 for residents outside the EEA. However, this price hike has not yet been approved by the board of directors.
HONG KONG, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- "Volunteers gave me clothes and an extra mattress because my knees are not in good shape. There is also a blanket. They are really thoughtful," said a 72-year-old resident surnamed Law, who was relocated to a temporary shelter after a major fire at Wang Fuk Court in Hong Kong's Tai Po District shattered the community's tranquility.

After the No. 5 alarm fire broke out on Wednesday afternoon, the government, the rescue forces and people from all walks of life rallied to launch effort that upheld the dignity of those affected and showcased community's resilience.

SHELTER CENTERS AS SAFE HARBORS

After the fire, temporary shelters were immediately opened in Tai Po, including Tung Cheong Street Community Hall, Tai Po Community Center, CCC Fung Leung Kit Memorial Secondary School, and more.

At 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, the temporary shelter in the secondary school was crowded but orderly. At the entrance, government service counters are arranged according to the urgency of needs and foot traffic: "Reporting Safety," "Medical Support," "Missing Persons Registration," and "Food Supply." Seating areas with power strips were set up for residents to rest and charge their devices.

Outside the venue, power banks, bottled water, diapers, and common medicines were sorted and distributed by care team members and volunteers to meet on-site needs.

"We all stayed here overnight," said Miss Lee, a Wang Fuk Court resident. "It was a bit cold, but quilts were available, and there was plenty of food -- fruit, milk, hot congee. Staff from the Home Affairs Department were on duty at the entrance, so we could raise any issue right away."

CITY'S "EVERYDAY HEROES"

In the face of the disaster, citizens have engaged in acts of kindness that like small streams converging into a vast ocean.

A resident of Tai Wai, Sha Tin District, surnamed Li told Xinhua that she felt heartbroken at the news of the fire. Since Tai Po is only four MTR stations away from her home, she packed some clothing on Wednesday night and headed to the scene of the fire.

While taking the elevator downstairs, she ran into two neighbors who were also on their way to donate supplies. Inside the MTR carriage, people were carrying large bags and boxes, all heading to Tai Po Market Station, the closest stop to the disaster site, with a shared purpose.

"Hong Kong really is a warmhearted city," she said.

Ms. Shen, who lives in Tai Hang, Wan Chai District, told Xinhua that SF Express' delivery person offered free delivery upon hearing that their packages were for fire victims. She remarked how deeply she was moved by the spontaneous solidarity shown by the people of Hong Kong, hoping this warmth and mutual support would help survivors through their ordeal.

Another resident surnamed Lam showed Xinhua a group chat on her phone, where lists were sent to detail various needs at the disaster site. The group admin -- who also runs a restaurant in Tai Po -- kept the donation requests updated based on firsthand information.

A local father of a 6-year-old boy surnamed Leung decided to donate blood when he and his son witnessed the still-burning buildings and scores of fire engines and ambulances on their way to school the next day.

"Not everyone can be a firefighter, a medical professional, or a police officer -- the city's 'big heroes.' But we can all be the city's 'everyday heroes,' helping people in need within our abilities," he said.

At the blood donation center, Leung said he met people from Europe, India, Muslim communities, and other backgrounds coming to give blood.

"Hong Kong is such an inclusive city. People of different ethnicities, all living here, are willing to lend a helping hand in times of crisis," he said.

CARING FOR THE VULNERABLE

Vulnerable groups, particularly the elderly, have received meticulous care during the ongoing rescue. At CCC Fung Leung Kit Memorial Secondary School, Xinhua reporters met a couple in their 80s from Kwong Yau House in Kwong Fuk Estate, just a street away from the fire-hit public housing block.

The pair had stayed at the shelter since Wednesday afternoon. "Supplies are ample, and lots of young volunteers are helping," they said, as a volunteer stepped forward to offer them a rest upstairs.

On-site support also caters to psychological needs. A quiet counseling booth was set up at the far end of the venue, away from the main entrance for privacy.

At mealtimes, some volunteers used loudspeakers to remind residents to collect their meals, while others carried food containers to distribute meals in the seating areas, ensuring that elderly residents with mobility or hearing impairments could promptly receive hot food. The food supply area was stocked with fruits, biscuits, eggs, pickles, bottled water, and hot water.

Members of care teams wearing jackets of different colors were busy moving around at the scene, constantly approaching residents to ask about their needs.

Government departments, social welfare organizations, volunteer groups, and ordinary citizens -- together they form a strong line of relief in times of crisis. Their compassion and cooperation stand as a testament to the resilience and unity that define the community. 
France hopes to establish a framework for ties between Brussels and Beijing "that serves mutual interests" when President Emmanuel Macron visits China next week, an Elysee Palace source said.

"The purpose of [Macron's] strategic conversation with President Xi Jinping is for Europe to be respected as a major partner of China and not as a variable in tensions," the source - who chose to remain anonymous, citing professional norms in France - said during a briefing on Thursday.

Macron will visit China from Wednesday to Friday next week and will meet Xi in both Beijing and Chengdu, Sichuan, in the southwest of the country.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team.

French President Emmanuel Macron doesn't want Europe to be seen as "a variable in tensions", according to an Elysee Palace source. Photo: EPA alt=French President Emmanuel Macron doesn't want Europe to be seen as "a variable in tensions", according to an Elysee Palace source. Photo: EPA>

In a bid to stabilise relations between China and Europe, Macron will propose a rebalancing of trade, commitments on security and peace, and that a new kind of relationship between the two sides be established, according to the source.

The source said Macron would express to Xi "a very clear desire to establish a framework for Sino-European relations that serves mutual interests".

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Not one determined by what happens between China and Russia or between China and the United States, but really based on China's recognition that Europe is a major partner, and that in Europe - by definition - it has fundamental interests, especially regarding peace and security in Ukraine," the source said.

"China needs advanced chips; Europe needs secure access to rare earths; and both sides have a mutual interest in sharing and accelerating technological innovation," the source said.

"This is the basis on which the president wants to operate, rather than following what the Americans want or what the Chinese want in their relationship with the Americans."

The Elysee source also noted that discussions between Paris and Beijing were guided by the European Union's China strategy that regards China as a partner, competitor and systemic rival.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Chinese officials have complained that this strategy is confusing. China's ambassador to France Deng Li previously told the South China Morning Post that the EU strategy was akin to "a crossroad with the red, green and yellow traffic lights all on at the same time".

A key obstacle in relations between China and France is Beijing's stance on Ukraine. Acknowledging China's concerns about European sanctions targeting Chinese entities, Paris hopes to convey its expectation that Beijing refrain from providing Moscow with any means to continue the war, according to the source.

The source said that was "entirely consistent with China's stated objective of facilitating a solution".

Xi will meet Macron in Beijing and again in Chengdu - the third time the Chinese president has joined his French counterpart for an additional meeting on a stop outside the capital. During Macron's previous visits to China the pair met in Shanghai and Guangzhou, as well as Beijing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"This is quite exceptional in Chinese protocol, and it is appreciated as such in Paris and by the president," the source said.

On Taiwan, France reiterated its commitment to the one-China policy and called for all sides to preserve the status quo.

"This necessarily requires restraint, including on China's part, especially in reaction to statements from the Japanese prime minister," the source said, referring to Sanae Takaichi's comment earlier this month that Tokyo could intervene militarily if the PLA attacked the self-ruled island - a remark that has angered Beijing.

In a phone call between Macron's diplomatic adviser Emmanuel Bonne and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, France was urged to support China on issues involving its core interests, according to a statement from Beijing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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.
A 36-year-old man was arrested Thursday night after he allegedly robbed two employees at Chicken University on Ala Moana Boulevard.

At about 10 :20 p.m., a 36-year-old man entered a closed restaurant at 1910 Ala Moana Boulevard and pointed what appeared to be a handgun at two employees.

One employee fled, while the second was assaulted and had her property taken,  according to a statement from the Honolulu Police Department.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Patrol officers arrived while the man was still in the restaurant and arrested him on suspicion of two counts of first-degree robbery.

Anyone with information is urged to call 911 or contact CrimeStoppers at (808 ) 955-8300 or through the P3 Tips app.

See more :

3 Comments By participating in online discussions you acknowledge that you have agreed to the. An insightful discussion of ideas and viewpoints is encouraged, but comments must be civil and in good taste, with no personal attacks. If your comments are inappropriate, you may be banned from posting. Report comments if you believe they do not follow our.

Having trouble with comments ? .
LONDON (AP)  British police on Thursday arrested a man on suspicion of involvement in an attack outside a synagogue last month that left two worshippers dead.

Greater Manchester Police said the 31-year-old was detained at Manchester Airport on suspicion of commission, preparation and instigation of acts of terrorism after arriving on an inbound flight.

A Syria-born British man, Jihad Al-Shamie, was shot dead by police on Oct. 2 outside the Heaton Park Congregation Synagogue in Manchester after he rammed a car into pedestrians, attacked them with a knife and tried to force his way into the building.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Police say the 35-year-old had pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group.

Congregation members Melvin Cravitz, 66, and Adrian Daulby, 53, died in the attack on Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the Jewish year, and three other men were seriously wounded.

Cravitz was stabbed by the attacker, and Daulby was accidentally shot by a police officer as he and other congregants barricaded the synagogue to block Al-Shamie from entering.

Six people were arrested in the greater Manchester area of northwest England in connection with the attack. Five were later released without charge, and a 30-year old man suspected of failing to disclose information about a crime was bailed while investigations continue.
A mugger who murdered an 87-year-old man as he walked home with his shopping has been jailed for a minimum of 23 years.

The Old Bailey heard how Peter Augustine, 59, lost his temper during an attempt to take John Mackey's bag outside a Co-op store in Manor House, north London, on 6 May.

Mr Mackey, who lived in Finsbury Park but was originally from Ireland, died in hospital two days after the attack, in which he was kicked, punched and stamped on.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sentencing Augustine to life with a minimum term of 23 years, Mrs Justice Whitehouse said he had killed a "gentle, innocent" man "for a box of cornflakes, a pint of milk and a saveloy sausage".

She added: "I have no doubt that if this defendant was genuinely starving and had asked Mr Mackey for help, this kind, generous gentleman would have assisted him."

Mr Mackey had lived in north London for 70 years and was well known locally for his trademark trilby hat, his close family relationships and his love of Arsenal FC.

On the day of the attack, he had picked up some shopping from the supermarket and was walking home. He was frail and used a stick.

Peter Augustine did not turn up for his sentencing at the Old Bailey, claiming he had a bad back [Met Police]

The court heard Augustine had been on the lookout for victims and, spotting the 87-year-old, crossed a busy road before following him for 15 minutes and then attacking him in a quiet location.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Witnesses to the minute-long attack described him shouting "give me the bag" while punching and "stomping on" John Mackey.

Prosecuting, Jane Bickerstaff KC said "there had been no need to use any violence at all.

"He could have just snatched that bag from Mr Mackey's hand," she told the court.

John Mackey's family paid tribute to a "perfect uncle" [Mackey family]

Instead, Augustine used "an astonishing level of gratuitous violence", she said, which was "wholly unnecessary and, as witnesses observed, carried out in extreme anger".

Sentencing, the judge told the court that the killing was not the result of an attempt to steal the bag - but of Augustine's rage.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The defendant, who was convicted by a jury on 13 November, was also sentenced to four weeks' imprisonment for theft and eight years for robbery. The sentences will be served concurrently.

During the trial, the judge took the rare step of excluding Augustine from the courtroom as he was giving evidence, because of his aggressive outbursts.

He refused to attend a psychiatrist's appointment and meetings to discuss his case, and was absent from Friday's sentencing hearing, claiming he had a back problem.

John Mackey was a proud Irishman, his family said [Mackey family]

The victim's niece Patricia Schan told the court that the defendant had shown "complete disdain and disrespect to the family".

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She described Mr Mackey as "the perfect uncle".

She said: "He was funny, charming, mysterious and very definitely mischievous - never seen without his trilby hat and always immaculately dressed.

"He was always interested in our lives - taking us to see his beloved Arsenal and introducing some of us to pubs around Manor House."

She said he was never happier than when he was with his extended Irish family and his murder had caused deep upset.

Listen to the best of BBC Radio London on Sounds and follow BBC London on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to hello.bbclondon@bbc.co.uk
In 2015, David Hole was prospecting in Maryborough Regional Park near Melbourne, Australia.

Armed with a metal detector, he discovered something out of the ordinary  a very heavy, reddish rock resting in some yellow clay.

He took it home and tried everything to open it, sure that there was a gold nugget inside the rock  after all, Maryborough is in the Goldfields region, where the Australian gold rush peaked in the 19th century.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To break open his find, Hole tried a rock saw, an angle grinder, a drill, and even doused the thing in acid. However, not even a sledgehammer could make a crack. That's because what he was trying so hard to open was no gold nugget.

Related: 'Supergiant' Gold Deposits Could Be Worth Over US$80 Billion

As he found out years later, it was a rare meteorite.

The video below has a summary:

YouTube Thumbnail

"It had this sculpted, dimpled look to it," Melbourne Museum geologist Dermot Henry told The Sydney Morning Herald in 2019.

"That's formed when they come through the atmosphere; they are melting on the outside, and the atmosphere sculpts them."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Unable to open the 'rock', but still intrigued, Hole took the nugget to the Melbourne Museum for identification.

Dermot Henry and Melbourne Museum geologist Bill Birch with the Maryborough meteorite. (Museums Victoria)

"I've looked at a lot of rocks that people think are meteorites," Henry told Channel 10 News.

In fact, after 37 years of working at the museum and examining thousands of rocks, Henry said only two of the offerings had ever turned out to be real meteorites.

This was one of the two.

"If you saw a rock on Earth like this, and you picked it up, it shouldn't be that heavy," Melbourne Museum geologist, Bill Birch, explained to The Sydney Morning Herald.

The Maryborough meteorite, with a slab cut from the mass. (Museums Victoria)

The researchers published a scientific paper describing the 4.6 billion-year-old meteorite, which they called Maryborough after the town near where it was found.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It weighs a whopping 17 kilograms (37.5 pounds), and after using a diamond saw to cut off a small slice, the researchers discovered its composition had a high percentage of iron, making it a H5 ordinary chondrite.

Once open, you can also see the tiny crystallized droplets of metallic minerals throughout it, called chondrules.

Radial pyroxene chondrule formed in the Maryborough meteorite. (Birch et al., PRSV, 2019)

"Meteorites provide the cheapest form of space exploration. They transport us back in time, providing clues to the age, formation, and chemistry of our Solar System (including Earth)," said Henry.

"Some provide a glimpse at the deep interior of our planet. In some meteorites, there is 'stardust' even older than our Solar System, which shows us how stars form and evolve to create elements of the periodic table.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Other rare meteorites contain organic molecules such as amino acids; the building blocks of life."

Although the researchers don't yet know where the meteorite came from and how long it may have been on Earth, they do have some guesses.

Win a $10,000 Space Coast Adventure Holiday

Our Solar System was once a spinning pile of dust and chondrite rocks.

Eventually gravity pulled a lot of this material together into planets, but the leftovers mostly ended up in a huge asteroid belt.

Related: Rock Used as Doorstop For Decades Found to Be Worth Over $1 Million

"This particular meteorite most probably comes out of the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, and it's been nudged out of there by some asteroids smashing into each other, then one day it smashes into Earth," Henry told Channel 10 News.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Carbon dating suggests the meteorite has been on Earth between 100 and 1,000 years, and there's been a number of meteor sightings between 1889 and 1951 that could correspond to its arrival on our planet.

A slab cut from the Maryborough meteorite. (Birch et al., PRSV, 2019)

The researchers argue that the Maryborough meteorite is much rarer than gold, making it far more valuable to science.

It's one of only 17 meteorites ever recorded in the Australian state of Victoria, and it's the second largest chondritic mass, after a huge 55-kilogram specimen identified in 2003.

"This is only the 17th meteorite found in Victoria, whereas there's been thousands of gold nuggets found," Henry told Channel 10 News.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Looking at the chain of events, it's quite, you might say, astronomical it being discovered at all."

Barred Olivine chondrule formed in the Maryborough meteorite. (Birch et al., PRSV, 2019)

Related: There's Something Special About Meteors That Collide With Earth

It's not even the first meteorite to take a few years to make it to a museum. In a particularly amazing story ScienceAlert covered in 2018, one space rock took 80 years, two owners, and a stint as a doorstop before finally being revealed for what it truly was.

Until recently, only a small fraction of meteorites that land on Earth had been firmly linked back to their parent body out in space  but in 2024, three newly published papers gave us compelling origin stories for more than 90 percent of meteorites today.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Now is probably as good a time as any to check your backyard for particularly heavy and hard-to-break rocks  you might be sitting on a metaphorical gold mine.

The study was published in Proceedings of the Royal Society of Victoria.

An earlier version of this article was published in July 2019.

Related News
Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) vowed hes not backing down in the face of threats from President Donald Trump.

Kelly, a former U.S. Navy fighter pilot and astronaut, drew Trumps fury after he and several other Democrats released a video urging U.S. troops to refuse unlawful orders. Trump accused the lawmakers of sedition punishable by death in a social media post. The Pentagon has since said it is investigating Kelly for possible breaches of military law related to the video.

Politics: Trump Absolutely Loses It Over NYT Story On His Energy, Calls Female Reporter Ugly

On Tuesdays Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Kelly responded defiantly.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The senator blasted Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth as totally unqualified for his job, saying his only role was to please the president.

He also pointed out an absurdity.

Its kind of wild, said Kelly, because we recited something in the Uniform Code of Military Justice and hes going to prosecute me under the Uniform Code of Military Justice for reciting the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

It is so ridiculous. Its almost like you cant make this **** up, he added.

Watch the full interview here:

Related...

Read the original on HuffPost
MASSILLON  Fire Capt. Joseph Glossen Jr. was among the first city firefighters to arrive as flames engulfed the La Cuisina restaurant on Nov. 30, 1975.

The 5:26 p.m. fire alarm alerted personnel about an explosion at the eatery at 1731 Lincoln Way E. Minutes after a first explosion, a second leveled the restaurant.

Glossen, as well as firefighters Kenneth Arnold, Donald Roseman and Frank Urwin, were about to go in the building through a west side door. They were wearing masks but never made it inside before disaster struck.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The four firefighters and a civilian were pinned under a falling wall. Arnold, Roseman and Urwin were killed. Glossen, who suffered burns throughout his body, survived.

He died nearly five years after the devastating event at the age of 46. His death was ruled as work-related, but his sacrifice was never recognized during the fire department's annual memorial service honoring those killed that day.

That's about the change.

Glossen will be honored along with Arnold, Roseman and Urwin and four other firefighters who died in the line of duty during a Nov. 30 memorial service at Station No. 1, 233 Erie St. S.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the fatal La Cuisina fire.

Plaque of Joseph Glossen

Joseph Glossen Jr. and the La Cuisina fire

It's unclear why Glossen, who died Sept. 9, 1980, was never formally honored in the memorial.

Fire Chief Matt Heck said Glossen's family had reached out to him about two years ago, but department records were no help. He had no idea that Glossen's death was tied to the well-known fire. Recently, one of the La Cuisina widows also raised the issue.

Things started rolling recently when Heck enlisted fire Capt. Pat Perkowski to help investigate.

Heck contacted the state pension system, which had Glossen's death classified as coming in the line of duty. They are still working to learn why his death is classified that way, but suspect it is because of his La Cuisina injuries.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Heck and Perkowski reached out to former firefighters to see if they knew what happened.

No one was sure, but Heck said he got answers like, "We were wondering what happened" and "It's about time."

"We are still looking into it and I assume we will find some things out later," the chief said. "Pat has done a tremendous job to right the ship. He's taken the bull by the horns."

Glossen, who at the time of the explosion was a 15-year member of the department, was trapped under the exterior wall with the others. An iron railing is credited with saving his life. According to accounts in the Massillon Evening Independent, the railing fell over him, supporting the wall and giving him enough room to breathe.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Firefighters were then able to rescue him.

"I didn't know how they got that brick wall off me, but I'm grateful that they did," Glossen told the Evening Independent from his hospital bed, days after the explosion.

His face, neck and arms were burned.

Massillon firefighters attempt to put out the flames at the La Cuisina Restaurant in 1975.

Family members remember Joseph Glossen Jr.

Glossen eventually returned to work, serving until his death. His youngest child, Marie Lyall, said her father was never the same.

She was 8 when her father was injured.

"It was just weird. It was hard for us to talk about," said Lyall, a Dellroy resident. "He restored historical vehicles, we had a boat, but after the fire he sold everything. It was weird like he was preparing to die."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lyall doesn't recall much about her father's injuries, but said he suffered long after the fire. She recalled he was in severe pain in his extremities.

Massillon firefighter Pat Perkowski shows how it was discovered that Joseph Glossen Jr.'s death was considered in the line of duty to Glossen's stepson Joe McLean and Glossen's daughters Victoria Hartzel, left, and Marie Lyall at Massillons Fire Station No. 1.

She recalled going to visit her dad in the hospital. He was "wrapped up like a mummy."

"It was scary," she said. "I hadn't seen that before."

She and her siblings  three biological daughters and three stepchildren  are happy their father will be remembered for his service.

"I don't know what made him (Perkowski) dig into it deeper," she said. "We're talking 50 years."

Lyall isn't sure why his death was never recognized. She speculates her mother, Jenny, didn't push the issue because of the time that had passed between the fire and his death. Maybe it was guilt that her mother felt that she was able to have her husband for five more years than her friends had their husbands.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"She was friends with the other wives and maybe she didn't feel it was right," Lyall said.

If her mom were alive today, Lyall said, she would be so proud that he is being recognized for his service to the community.

"We knew it was a danger and it wouldn't have changed a thing," she said.

The large-scale fire and deaths of Arnold, Roseman and Urwin were difficult for everyone. The whole town felt it, Lyall said.

"All public servants that risk their lives, this brings attention to, not just my dad, but all firefighters, military and police," she said. "We have to be grateful and thankful for these men that take this risk for us to be safe."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Many members of Glossen's family will be at the memorial.

"It's time he is recognized with his team and that they can be together once again," Lyall said.

Perkowski is pleased he could bring some closure to Glossen's family.

"I just wanted to correct what needed to be done," Perkowski said. "The family was overjoyed that he will finally be recognized."

In addition to adding Glossen to the Massillon memorial, Perkowski said the International Association of Fire Fighters will add Glossen's name to the Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial in Colorado Spring, Colorado, in September.

Massillon Fire Capt. Joseph Glossen Jrs stepson Joe Mclean and his daughters Victoria Hartzel, left, and Marie Lyall pose with the plaque in honor of their father. Glossen who was injured in the La Cuisina fire died nearly five years later. At the fire department's annual memorial honoring line-of-duty deaths, Glossen will be honored for the first time.

La Cuisina fire memorial is Nov. 30

The Massillon Fire Department will host the annual memorial on Nov. 30. The service begins at 5:26 p.m., the same time firefighters received a fire alarm.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The department honors the three firefighters who were killed in the blaze as well as other line-of-duty deaths suffered over the years  Albert Bamberger, Charles W. Snyder, Everett L. Stevens and Capt. August Theis.

Reflecting on the 50 years since the tragedy, Heck recalled a pastor who spoke during a previous memorial stating that the scabs may have worn off from that day, but the scars remain.

"Think about the impact on the 50 years of the generations," the chief said.

"Nov. 30 is a tough day. You think about what has changed and the impact it had on all of us. The number of people impacted by the fire was not just the immediate family, it is the firefighters that were on the scene and the firefighters that have come after them."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Even after 50 years, it has not gotten easier; the hurt and the grief are still there, he said.

"Not just in Massillon, but this is brought and up and talked about not only on Nov. 30 but on any other day of the year. It's still in the minds of a lot of people," Heck said.

Reach Amy at 330-775-1135 or amy.knapp@indeonline.com.

This article originally appeared on The Repository: Massillon to honor Joseph Glossen Jr. on La Cuisina fire anniversary
The discovery of a series of huge Neolithic pits have been confirmed at the Stonehenge World Heritage Site after initial research a few years ago.

The massive pits at Durrington Walls in Wiltshire are set at regular intervals, ten metres in diameter and more than five metres deep.

Professor Vince Gaffney said that as a "cohesive structure" they could be "one of the largest prehistoric structures in Britain, if not the largest prehistoric structure".

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The new research has been published in the Internet Archaeology Journal and concludes pits are almost certainly man-made and more than 4,000 years old.

Durrington Walls sits next to Woodhenge in the Stonehenge landscape [Historic England Archive/Heritage Images via Getty Images]

Prof Gaffney, from the University of Bradford, explained it would have taken a lot of effort to dig the holes - around two storeys deep - from the chalk landscape.

The horseshoe-shaped pits also link to another monument near Larkhill.

"The circle is pretty accurate. It suggests that people were pacing the distances out to make sure that the pits were aligned at the same distance all the way around as the distance from the henge to the earlier enclosure" he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Prof Gaffney said it added to previous evidence that people were counting and applying it.

"They're inscribing something about their cosmology, their belief systems, into the earth itself in a very dramatic way."

Researchers had surveyed 12 sq km (7.4 sq m) of the landscape when they spotted the giant holes.

No longer visible to the naked eye and too big to realistically excavate very quickly, they made narrow boreholes to take samples of the material from the features.

Experts analysed sediment from the pits to date them [Internet Archaeology journal]

DNA extracted from the samples revealed remains of animals, including sheep and cattle.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The samples also helped experts date the excavations.

Dr Tim Kinnaird from the University of St Andrews called it a "super henge" and used a method called luminescence dating: "So just before that sediment falls into the pit, it's exposed to daylight, so we can date the time of construction."

It also revealed they were kept open for 1,000 years: "So that spans changing cultures," he explained.

Follow BBC Wiltshire on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.

More on this story

Internet links
At just 9.8 inches long and weighing roughly as much as a slice of bread, zebra shark pup Jelly may be small. But her hatch represents a big step for endangered shark conservation in Grit City.

She is the first zebra shark hatchling at the Raja Ampat Research and Conservation Centre nursery in Indonesia to originate from Tacoma, over 8,000 miles away on the other side of the Pacific, according to a release from Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium.

Jelly entered the world in mid-November, the first of seven zebra shark eggs produced at the aquarium this year to be sent overseas as part of a global conservation effort to restore endangered shark populations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Unlike offspring developed by asexual reproduction, the brown-patterned pup is the result of natural mating between her parents, resident sharks Peanut and Butter. Their resulting embryos were heterozygous, meaning they contain greater genetic diversity and can have a greater impact on rebuilding wild populations.

After Peanut laid her eggs earlier this year, a veterinary team monitored them with close care until September, performing ultrasounds and examining for viability. The eggs were then flown from Washington to Indonesia in a temperature-controlled and oxygenated shipping box.

Jelly will now be raised by shark nannies in Indonesia with minimal human contact until she reaches maturity. Then she will be released into a protected ocean habitat spanning 5 million acres.

Zebra sharks are native to the Indo-West Pacific region and face population declines due to overfishing and habitat threats. Its suspected that numbers have dropped by more than 50% over the past three generations, according to The International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its endangered status sparked the creation of the Stegostoma tigrinum Augmentation and Recovery Project, known as the StAR Project for short. This initiative led by the international coalition ReShark helps breed sharks under human care and return their eggs to native habitats.

Under this project, Jelly will be tagged and monitored by scientists to track her movements, survival and how she adjusts to the wild.

This is conservation in action, said Point Defiance Aquarium Curator Chris Spaulding in a press release. To see pups from our adult sharks in Tacoma hatching in Indonesia and preparing for a life in the wild is extraordinary. It shows the powerful, real-world impact of global collaboration.

The Point Defiance Zoo plans to continue this program and keep introducing Tacoma-bred sharks into their natural habitat.

Were hoping that Peanut, the female, and Butter have more viable eggs sometime between April and July, Tessa Miller, the zoos communications supervisor, said. Then were going to put all of the viable eggs on the list as candidates to send again. So it depends on the capacity of the program, but were hopeful that shell lay all the eggs and that they can all be part of it again.
An NHS midwife is on life-support in Barbados after falling ill just one day into her dream holiday.

Alison Phillips, 60 from Manchester, had to be taken to hospital on the third day of her trip and was diagnosed with advanced pneumonia and sepsis and has since spent more than two weeks in an induced coma.

Ms Phillips was due to have a tracheotomy to help her breathe without ventilation- but her family said she still would not be able to fly home, unless by air ambulance - the cost of which may not be covered by insurance.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Daughter, Abigail Phillips is 25 weeks pregnant and unable to fly - "I just want to hug my mum," she said. "Her granddaughter is so upset, she just wants her nanny back."

Ms Phillips, from Whitfield, has been a midwife for 30 years at North Manchester hospital.

She flew to the island with five friends on 2 November, to celebrate her 60th birthday.

After developing symptoms of a chest infection on the first day, she was given antibiotics at a medical centre.

After two days, her condition had worsened and her friends rushed her to A&E at Queen Elizabeth's Hospital in Bridgetown - where she was later admitted into intensive care.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Abigail, 36, said: "When she was transferred to ICU, and I was told the severity of the situation, I just completely broke down.

"I was so scared and I really felt guilty.

"I'm not allowed to fly and I felt like I had a real dilemma of protecting my baby over being with my mum - which is a horrible, horrible battle to have in your own head."

Abigail's older brother Antony, 39 has been at his mum's side in Barbados for the last two weeks.

"Thank goodness my brother has been able to be there," she said. "I don't know what I would've done without him."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I trust him with my life - and I trust him with mum's," she said. "All I can do is just be grateful that I've got him."

After two weeks in an induced coma, Alison opened her eyes for the first time two days ago - and has since nodded, Abigail told BBC Manchester.

Despite this progress, Abigail said her mum was still "temporarily paralysed and on heavy sedative medication... she's not very compos-mentis," Abigail said.

Ms Phillips cannot fly currently, as she is on full ventilation - but after her tracheotomy, she could be able to fly home by air ambulance, her family have been told.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"She will need a three-stop air ambulance," Abigail said. "We don't know the full costs yet, but I'm working on estimates and it could be about 140,000 for the air ambulance alone."

The Phillips family has said they do not yet know whether the full cost of this flight would be covered by her travel insurance.

"This is one of those things that has just happened to an everyday person.

"All she's done is got ill in the wrong place."

Abigail added: "My mum has dedicated more than 30 years to caring for mothers, babies, and families with compassion and strength.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"And now, she urgently needs that same love and support in return."

Listen to the best of BBC Radio Manchester on Sounds and follow BBC Manchester on Facebook, X, and Instagram. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230.

Related stories

Related internet links
BEIJING, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson on Friday said that guided by Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy, China's diplomacy will create a more favorable external environment for the endeavor of building China into a great modern socialist country and advancing the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation through a Chinese path to modernization, and make greater contribution to peace and human progress.

Spokesperson Mao Ning made the remarks at a daily news briefing when asked to share more on the Study Outline on Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy (2025 Edition), which was published on Friday.

Mao introduced that as approved by the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs updated the Study Outline on Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy, which was first published in 2021, and released its 2025 Edition.

The new edition gives an overview of the pioneering contributions and latest development of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era in the field of diplomacy, Mao said, noting that it also systemically elaborates on the epochal backdrop, profound dimensions, theoretical quintessence and rich practice of Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy.

The book serves as an authoritative guide for members of the CPC, officials and the public to understand and apply Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy, Mao added.

Since the dawn of this new era, with a keen understanding of the general trends in China and the world, the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at the core, developed a series of major innovations in theory and practice for China's external work, led the country in making historical achievements on that front and transforming it, and formed and enriched Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy, Mao said.

"Under the strong leadership of the CPC Central Committee, we in the diplomatic service hold high the banner of building a community with a shared future for humanity, advocate an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, implement the four major global initiatives, work to build a more just and equitable global governance system through reform, expand the global network of partnerships and advance the high-quality Belt and Road cooperation," Mao said.

She also said that those on the diplomatic front firmly uphold national sovereignty, security and development interests, and actively act on the abiding commitment of serving the people through diplomacy.

As the major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics is advancing on all fronts, China enjoys enhanced international influence, stronger capacity to lead new endeavors, and greater moral appeal, Mao said. 
Victory is in sight!

For more than two decades, opponents of charter schools that are authorized to operate by the Milwaukee School Board but which are not staffed by Milwaukee Public Schools employees have tried hard to bring an end to what they consider a threat to conventional public schools. They havent succeeded. But current developments are moving things decidedly their way.

But let us pause to define a term: pyrrhic victory. A pyrrhic victory is when victory turns out to lead to defeat.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

What is developing now may well turn out to be a defeat for MPS, wearing the guise of a victory for charter opponents and especially for the Milwaukee Teachers Education Association.

Heres why I say this:

In general, charter schools are semi-independent of the rules for schools that are part of a regular school system. Most are run by private, nonprofit organizations. The overall concept for charter schools is simple: You get to run your own school and you get per-student public funding in exchange for providing positive results. Charter schools generally have to admit any student and they cannot have religious programs, which is one of the big differences between a charter school and a private school receiving state-funded voucher money.

More: Here's what charter schools are and how they work in Wisconsin

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Charter schools have to be authorized by some government body. In the 1990s in Wisconsin, school boards were the only bodies that could approve of a charter school. But state legislation added to the list of authorizers. In Milwaukee, that meant that the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and Milwaukee city government began chartering schools, separate from MPS, which, among other things, meant fewer students and less money for MPS.

Some MPS leaders over the years have responded by favoring the Milwaukee School Board authorizing more charter schools, which kept more students (and money) under the MPS umbrella. But the relationship between MPS leaders and charter school leaders has been fraught for years, with periods of rocky tension.

(Separately, there are MPS charter schools that are staffed by MPS employees. Those schools generally have not been the subject of controversy.)

Overall, some of the highest performing schools in the MPS family have been the independent charter schools, and a disproportionately high percentage of students (especially Black students) in the MPS system who have been rated as proficient or better on standardized tests have been enrolled in those schools.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Furthermore, having the charter students as part of MPS not only has improved the state aid picture for MPS, but it has brought MPS additional money because the amount of money MPS receives from the state for each student is several thousand dollars more than the amount MPS passes on to the schools. For example, in this school year, MPS is receiving $16,773 for each student at Carmen Northwest Middle and High School and sending $12,369 to the school.

Lets do the math: There are more than 500 students in that school. At about $4,000 per student, MPS is receiving about $2 million more for Carmen students than it is actually paying to Carmen. In addition, the school is paying MPS $727,469 this school year to rent the building, which was originally an MPS middle school.

The number of students in the MPS independent charter schools was only about 2,500 in the fall of 2008. That rose to a peak of just under 9,000 in the fall of 2016. Some schools have closed, some have switched to other authorizers, some have lost enrollment. The number in the MPS system this fall is about 6,900.

Current attention has focused primarily on Carmen Northwest, which was up for renewal of its charter contract. The schools test scores have been low, but its general vitality as a school community has been pretty good (as the large number of Carmen supporters at recent school board meetings demonstrated).

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The school board voted Nov. 20 to give the school a one-year renewal, on the condition that it wont be renewed again and it wont be allowed to continue to use the building that has been its home for more than a decade.

Is this a death sentence for the school or will the school find a new building and a new authorizer? Stay tuned. The school is set to leave MPS in any case.

But this is only part of the picture for these charter schools. Six other schools  four campuses of Milwaukee College Prep and two Carmen High Schools that have been housed in MPS buildings on the south side  are leaving the MPS roster after this school year. They plan to be authorized in the future by UW-Milwaukee.

That means the forecast is for the number of students in this group of charter schools to fall by more than 3,500 by fall 2027. That alone would create a revenue loss to MPS of more than $12 million a year. And the loss of these charter schools, most of them with academic performance above the MPS averages, is very likely to drop the MPS overall achievement picture. Furthermore, one of the remaining MPS-authorized charter schools, the Hmong American Peace Academy with about 2,000 students, would account for two-thirds of the remaining students in this scenario. HAPA, as it is called, has achievement scores well above the MPS average. Will HAPA stay with MPS in the future? I wouldnt count on that.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

So the approaching victory for opponents of independent charter schools within MPS can be forecast to mean a loss of longtime, high performing schools from the MPS roster, further decline in the total number of students in the MPS system (a number that has already been declining every year), a systemwide decline in achievement, and loss of quite a bit of money for MPS.

On the upside for MPS? Well, there isnt much tangible upside that I can see, except if you want these schools out of the system.

Will shifting charter authorizers hurt the four Milwaukee College Prep schools or the two south side Carmen High Schools? Almost certainly not. Parents and students are unlikely to care who the authorizer is, the schools financial pictures may improve, and the schools are likely to proceed on course. The two Carmen high schools will be moving into their own building, now under construction at South 20th Street and Oklahoma Avenue. Carmen Northwest is the only question mark  will it find a new building and a new authorizer or will this be the end for the school?

Supporters argued that Carmen Northwest, even with its weak reading and math scores, was still doing better than many MPS schools on the northwest side. This points to another big issue that wasnt on the table before the school board: If the performance of Carmen Northwest isnt acceptable, what is going to be done about other schools in that part of Milwaukee with low success year after year? MPS Superintendent Brenda Cassellius has said that more needs to be done to change the low levels of academic success citywide. But so far, not much has emerged as a plan, with the exception of fresh commitment to increasing literacy success, an effort that in itself is encountering troubles getting launched.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If the definition of success is watching a group of your more successful schools go out the door, increasing your already difficult financial problems, and doing little to nothing that actually promises broader success for students, then the changing picture for semi-independent charter schools in MPS is shaping up as a victory  a victory that may well be pyrrhic.

Borsuk

Alan J. Borsuk is senior fellow in law and public policy at Marquette Law School. Reach him at alan.borsuk@marquette.edu.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: MPS charter school opponents win battle, could lose war
President Donald Trump said that one of the two West Virginia National Guard members shot by an Afghan national near the White House had died, calling the shooter who had worked with the CIA in his native country a savage monster, according to the Associated Press.

As part of his Thanksgiving call to U.S. troops, Trump said that he had just learned that Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, had died, while Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, was fighting for his life.

Shes just passed away, Trump said. Shes no longer with us. Shes looking down at us right now. Her parents are with her.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The president called Beckstrom an incredible person, outstanding in every single way.

Trump used the announcement to say the shooting by Rahmanullah Lakanwal was a terrorist attack as he criticized the Biden administration for enabling Afghans who worked with U.S. forces during the Afghanistan War to enter the U.S. without, in his opinion, sufficient vetting. The president has deployed National Guard members in part to assist in his administrations mass deportation efforts.

This atrocity reminds us that we have no greater national security priority than ensuring that we have full control over the people that enter and remain in our country, Trump said. For the most part, we dont want them.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. APs earlier story follows below.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
By Jasper Ward, Bhargav Acharya and Ted Hesson

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The Afghan man accused of shooting two National Guard members will face first-degree murder charges for an attack that prompted President Donald Trump to declare he would freeze migration from "Third World Countries" to the U.S.

U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C., Jeanine Pirro, said on Friday that there will be other charges as well against 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, who she said ambushed the National Guardsmen from West Virginia near the White House on Wednesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a Thanksgiving call with U.S. military service members on Thursday Trump called the shootings a "terrorist attack" and officials have said they were conducting a terrorism probe into Wednesday's shooting.

"What happened at that crime is unmistakable. It is a premeditated murder," Pirro told Fox News' "Fox and Friends" program. "We are upgrading the initial charges of assault to murder in the first degree," she said.

Sarah Beckstrom, 20, died of her wounds on Thursday. Pirro told Fox that Beckstrom's fellow Guardsman Andrew Wolfe, 24, was in critical condition.

On his Truth Social platform late Thursday, Trump escalated his rhetoric on immigration. Since taking office this year he has stepped up arrests of immigrants in the U.S. illegally, cracked down on unlawful border crossings and stripped legal status from hundreds of thousands of people.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the U.S. system to fully recover, terminate all of the millions of Biden illegal admissions, including those signed by Sleepy Joe Bidens autopen, and remove anyone who is not a net asset to the United States," Trump said on Truth Social, referring to his predecessor.

After taking office in 2021, Biden reversed many of Trump's restrictive immigration policies from his first term, saying they blocked people in need of humanitarian protection and were unfairly discriminatory.

Trump did not name any countries. Asked about "Third World" countries, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on Friday referred Reuters to 19 countries listed in a June travel ban.

Earlier, Homeland Security officials had said Trump ordered a widespread review of asylum cases approved under the Biden administration and green cards issued to citizens of the 19 countries, which include Afghanistan.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

SHOOTING PROMPTS SWEEPING MIGRATION REVIEWS

Lakanwal entered the U.S. in 2021 through Operation Allies Welcome, a Biden-era immigration program to resettle thousands of Afghans who helped the U.S. during the war and feared reprisal from Taliban forces who seized control after the U.S. withdrawal.

More than 70,000 Afghans have been resettled in the U.S. under the program. Officials said Lakanwal was part of a CIA-backed unit in Afghanistan before coming to the U.S. He was granted asylum this year under Trump, according to a U.S. government file on him seen by Reuters.

Investigators said Lakanwal drove across the country from his home in the state of Washington and shot the two Guardsmen with a powerful revolver, a .357 Magnum, before being wounded in an exchange of gunfire with other troops.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The shootings may give Trump an opening to argue that even legal pathways like asylum pose security risks for Americans.

Less than 24 hours after the shooting, Trump officials began ordering widespread reviews of immigration policies.

Lakanwal lived in Washington state with his wife and five children, according to investigators. Asked whether he was planning to deport the suspect's wife and five children who live in Washington state, Trump has said, "We're looking at the whole situation with family."

INTERNATIONAL GROUPS DEFEND ASYLUM SEEKER RIGHTS

U.N. agencies appealed to Washington to continue allowing asylum seekers access to the country and to be given due process.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"We expect all countries, including the United States, to honour their commitments under the 1953 Refugee Convention," Farhan Haq, the deputy spokesperson for the U.N. secretary general, told Reuters.

U.N. human rights office spokesperson Jeremy Laurence told a Geneva press briefing: "They are entitled to protection under international law, and that should be given due process."

Jasmin Lilian Diab, director of the Institute for Migration at the Lebanese American University, said freezing Afghan applications or reconsidering thousands of approved asylum claims would disrupt families and local communities and erode the integrity of the migration system.

"While the recent incident is tragic, using an isolated incident to justify mass restrictions is inconsistent with evidence showing no link between refugee arrivals and increased crime," Diab told Reuters.

(Reporting by Jasper Ward, Bhargav Acharya and Ted Hesson; Writing by David Morgan; editing by Donna Bryson and Deepa Babington)
President Donald Trump posted a series of anti-immigration messages on social media on Thanksgiving, and one of them contained a slur.

"A very Happy Thanksgiving salutation to all of our Great American Citizens and Patriots who have been so nice in allowing our Country to be divided, disrupted, carved up, murdered, beaten, mugged, and laughed at, along with certain other foolish countries throughout the World, for being 'Politically Correct,' and just plain STUPID, when it comes to Immigration," one of Trump's Nov. 27 Truth Social posts read.

It later mentioned Minnesota and called the governor the "r-word." The term was once used medically to describe people with mental disabilities, but over time, it was used as a bullying phrase. In recent decades, advocates have campaigned to end the use of the word, and it was becoming seemingly unacceptable to use.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But over the last year or so, it's made a resurgence, appearing unapologetically in places like Joe Rogan's podcast, Elon Musk's social media posts, and now, the president's statements.

"The post suggests the president used the r-word to mock Gov. Walz. If thats true, this word has a long, painful and humiliating history, and it reinforces unfair and wrong stereotypes that people with intellectual disabilities are incompetent or worse," Dr. Timothy Shriver, Special Olympics Chairman, said in a statement to USA TODAY. "Words matter. Its never OK to use the r-word."

More: Trump: Most foreigners eating alive Great American Citizens and Patriots

Read Donald Trump's Thanksgiving message, posted to Truth Social

Trump used a slur about people with cognitive disabilities. What did it say?

Trump used the r-word, considered a slur, to describe Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, a Democrat who ran against Vice President JD Vance in the 2024 election. While it was introduced as a medical term in 1961, it evolved over the following decades to be an insult used to demean people with and without disabilities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Using the r-word is the same as using any slur against a minority group," the Special Olympics website reads. "Eliminating this word is a step toward respect for all."

In 2010, former President Barack Obama signed "Rosa's Law," which replaced "mental retardation" references to "intellectual disability" within existing federal laws.

What you call people is how you treat them. If we change the words, maybe it will be the start of a new attitude towards people with disabilities," Obama quoted the brother of Rosa, whom the bill was named after, as saying while speaking about Rosa's Law at a bill signing.

Walz shared a screenshot of Trump's post on X with the caption "release the MRI results."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump had an MRI during his Oct. 10 visit to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, but described it as "perfect."

The White House did not immediately respond to USA TODAY's request for comment.

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 Palm Beach Post: Trump used r-word slur in Thanksgiving post to describe Tim Walz
After Democratss devastating loss to Donald Trump, the path forward for the party remains uncertain. With no clear direction  and no obvious standard-bearer  the race for the partys 2028 presidential nomination is wide open. Would-be contenders include governors, senators, members of Congress, a former cabinet secretary and the former vice-president. While no one has officially announced their candidacy, several have begun visiting the early-voting states, and raising their profiles with appearances on popular podcasts and cross-country book tours. Of course, much could change in the months and years ahead, leaving room for surprises and new faces.

Gavin Newsom

The term-limited governor has reprised his role as Democrats most visible Trump foil, setting off high-profile clashes with the president and his administration over federal authority, tariffs, climate policy and immigration. Newsoms satirical social media presence  often aimed squarely at Trump  has helped raise his already growing national profile as he spearheaded a successful redistricting ballot measure, marketed as a check on Trumps power. In preparation for a potential bid, Newsom has launched a podcast, traveled to South Carolina and announced an initiative focused on improving outcomes for young men  a group Democrats struggled with in 2024  all while refining a progressive-but-pragmatic brand. Newsom has acknowledged he is considering a run for the White House but insists his focus for now is on helping Democrats take back the House in the 2026 midterms.

Governor of California

Kamala Harris

Harris, who unexpectedly became the partys 2024 nominee after Joe Biden stepped aside, has left open the possibility that she could pursue the nomination for a third time. Near-universal name recognition, a deep national fundraising network and strong support among core Democratic constituencies, particularly Black voters and suburban women, could give Harris a head start, though her loss to Trump  and unsuccessful 2020 presidential campaign  has left many in the party questioning whether voters would embrace her again. Harris, who was the first female, first African American and first Asian American to serve as vice-president and the highest-ranking woman in American government, returned to California after leaving the White House. She formally ruled out a run for governor, before she re-emerged on the national stage with a memoir about her historic 107-day presidential campaign. Asked repeatedly about her future plans, she is careful to leave the door open for another White House bid, saying recently: I am not done.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Former vice-president, 2024 Democratic presidential nominee

Pete Buttigieg

Buttigiegs calm, technocratic approach and millennial communication savvy catapulted him from small-town mayor to the front of the Democratic pack in the 2020 presidential primary. While unsuccessful, the campaign cemented his status as a rising political star. Biden tapped him to lead the transportation department, making Buttigieg the first openly gay US secretary confirmed by lawmakers. Since leaving office, the 43-year-old has maintained a national profile with regular appearances on manosphere podcasts and town halls, including at a veterans-focused event in Iowa. As a candidate, Buttigieg, a former intelligence officer in the navy reserves who deployed to Afghanistan while serving as mayor of South Bend, Indiana, could try to recapture the energy of his first presidential campaign, casting himself as a next-generation problem solver who blends progressive ideas with midwestern pragmatism.

Former transportation secretary

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez

Seven years after arriving onto the national scene seemingly overnight with a stunning primary upset, the Bronx-born congresswoman remains one of the lefts most energizing and influential voices. Ocasio-Cortez, known simply by her initials, AOC, has emphasized her Puerto Rican and working-class roots  she worked as a bartender and waitress before running for Congress. After Trumps second inauguration, she joined Senator Bernie Sanders on a cross-country Fighting Oligarchy tour that drew massive crowds of furious Democrats hungry for leaders willing to stand up to the new administration. In recent years, Ocasio-Cortez, 36, has worked to broaden her influence beyond her progressive base, using her fundraising prowess and grassroots appeal to mobilize young voters and help boost vulnerable House members. Should she run, Ocasio-Cortez would likely be the youngest candidate in the field. Some supporters would prefer she challenge Senate minority leader Chuck Schumer, who is up for re-election in 2028.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Congresswoman from New York

Josh Shapiro

The Pennsylvania governor has emerged as one of the partys more pragmatic voices, cultivating a reputation for bipartisanship in a swing state Democrats must win to reclaim the White House. Shapiro, 52, was a leading contender to be Harriss running mate in 2024, a nod to his perceived electability. A former attorney general, he gained national attention for his sweeping investigation into clergy sexual abuse and for his offices work securing opioid settlements  achievements he has carried into office. As governor, he has positioned himself as a steady critic of Trump-era policies while avoiding the sharper rhetoric of the partys left. Known for an oratory style that can sound similar to Barack Obama, he speaks often about his Jewish faith and rejecting political violence, hate speech and antisemitism  themes that became personal after the governors residence was the target of an arson attack during Passover in April 2025.

Governor of Pennsylvania

Andy Beshear

A red-state Democrat who has repeatedly won statewide elections  even as Kentucky leans heavily Republican  Beshears profile has grown as the party searches for leaders who can reconnect with voters in Trump-friendly regions. Beshear, 47, has taken steps to raise his national visibility: in 2025, he also launched a podcast and stirred up crowds in South Carolina and other important states while appearing more regularly on cable news. He has pitched himself a pragmatist with a populist streak, a mild-mannered Democrat who can take on Trump without alienating his supporters. As the chair-elect of the Democratic Governors Association, Beshear will help shape the partys messaging, urging candidates to speak to voters more like normal human beings.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Governor of Kentucky

Ruben Gallego

A former Marine and five-term congressman, Gallego, 46, made history as the first Latino to represent the state in the US Senate. The Arizona senators 2024 victory over Kari Lake  in a heavily contested race the same year Trump carried the state  showed his crossover appeal with the presidents supporters. During his Senate campaign, he highlighted his biography  son of immigrants from Colombia and Mexico, combat veteran, first-generation college graduate  to appeal to working-class and Hispanic voters the party has struggled with in recent years. Having worked to shed his progressive image, he has emerged as a leading Democratic voice on immigration, pushing a consensus approach while railing against the Trump administrations crackdown. Gallego has hardly been coy about his interest in a White House bid. He has visited several key states and, when asked, argues that Democrats need a candidate who can compete for working-class voters.

Senator from Arizona

Many more Democrats are viewed as potential contenders. Heres who else to watch.
This article is part of TPM Cafe, TPMs home for opinion and news analysis.

For nine decades, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has stood as the federal governments primary guardian of workers rights to organize and bargain collectively. Created in the depths of the Great Depression, the NLRB was designed to be a buffer between workers and the concentrated economic power of employers, ensuring that the fundamental right to unionize could not be crushed by intimidation or retaliation. Its enabling legislation, the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), is unambiguous in its purpose: to encourage and protect collective bargaining and to level the playing field between employers and employees.

And yet, in one of the most striking ironies of recent years, under the Trump administration, the NLRB itself is suing states like California and New York that have asserted the right to protect their workers when the NLRB fails to do its job.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

How did it come to this? Almost immediately after taking office, President Trump illegally fired board member Gwynne Wilcox  the first time a president has removed a board member before the end of their statutorily required term in the 90 years of the boards existence. Wilcoxs removal left the board without the required quorum of at least three members to advance certain business. Without a quorum, the NLRB General Counsel can continue certain activities related to processing complaints and managing ongoing court cases. However, instead of using the Boards full authority to protect workers, the quorumless Trump NLRB has paused all active investigations  including 24 into Trump megadonor Elon Musks companies  and cannot open any new investigations when employers violate their workers rights.

With an underfunded, understaffed, and ideologically hostile NLRB failing to enforce the law, some states have stepped into the gap. Since Wilcoxs firing, New York and California have passed so-called NLRB trigger laws allowing their state labor agencies to monitor union elections, investigate charges of workplace retaliation, and address other issues in the event the federal labor board is unable to decide cases.

These efforts were not attempts to override federal authority  they were attempts to preserve the core guarantees of the NLRA in the face of federal abandonment. However, while the Trump NLRB is unable to do its actual job of protecting workers, it has found time to make sure that the states dont either. Acting General Counsel William Cowen has filed lawsuits against New York and California attempting to invalidate their NLRB trigger laws under the doctrine of federal preemption.

Under the U.S. Constitutions Supremacy Clause, federal law is the supreme law of the land. The Supreme Court has interpreted this clause to mean that when Congress either explicitly or impliedly intends to create a uniform regulatory scheme where state-level regulations could create conflicting requirements, the federal law preempts the state law and renders it unenforceable.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This is not a legal technicality. Normally, preemption prevents overlapping regulation, but here, the Trump NLRBs claim is both sweeping and deeply cynical. They say that states cannot protect workers in areas that could fall under NLRB jurisdiction, even when the NLRB declines to exercise that jurisdiction. In other words, the NLRB is asserting the exclusive right to not protect workers.

This runs contrary to both the spirit and the letter of the NLRA. Congress explicitly stated that the purpose of the Act was to promote collective bargaining and minimize industrial strife by empowering workers. There is nothing in the statute that suggests Congress intended the federal government to block states from acting when the NLRB is unableor unwillingto fulfill its mission.

The Trump Boards theory of preemption effectively weaponizes federal inaction. Under this view, a hostile or incapacitated NLRB can unilaterally shut down federal labor law enforcement while also preventing states from taking action, ensuring that workers have no substantive rights at all. It creates a regulatory vacuum in which employers face neither state nor federal accountability.

The Supreme Court has long recognized that states serve as laboratories of democracy. Nowhere is that more important than in labor law, where federal enforcement has been chronically underfunded and increasingly politicized. States are often the first to identify emerging problems, from wage theft and workplace safety violations to misclassification in the gig economy, and they are often the first to craft innovative responses.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Californias AB 5, for example, sought to address systematic misclassification of workers as independent contractors  an issue the NLRB had done little to address. New York established new remedies for wage theft, a crisis affecting hundreds of thousands of low-income workers. Both states acted because workers were falling through the cracks of an NLRB that had abdicated its responsibilities.

The Trump NLRBs lawsuits attack these efforts not because they conflict with federal law, but because they succeed where the federal government has deliberately sided with corporations over workers. What makes these lawsuits particularly alarming is the contradiction between the NLRBs posture and its statutory mission. The NLRA was not written to create a single, exclusive federal bureaucracy; it was written to empower workers. The Boards role was always intended to be supportive of worker rights.

The Trump NLRBs approach turns that logic on its head. It treats the NLRA as a ceiling rather than a floor, arguing that workers should have only the protections the Board acknowledges on any given day. And during an administration openly aligned with corporate interests, that ceiling has been set perilously low. The result is an agency using the very authority designed to protect workers to prevent anyone else from protecting them.

If the NLRB succeeds in asserting exclusive authority to deny protections, workers in hostile or underfunded jurisdictions could find themselves without meaningful rights for years at a time. Every change in administration could lead to dramatic swings in worker protections, leaving millions of workers in legal limbo. More broadly, the NLRBs position undermines the basic logic of cooperative federalism. States have always played a vital role in protecting their residents when federal institutions falter. Preventing them from doing so erodes the resilience of the entire labor rights ecosystem.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At stake is not only the future of state-level labor innovation but the future of the NLRA itself. If an anti-labor NLRB can interpret the statute as a tool for stripping away protections rather than expanding them, the pro-worker foundation of the Act will erode.

States will continue to innovate, because they must. Workers cannot wait for an NLRB that is out of quorum, out of resources, and, under certain administrations, out of alignment with its own purpose. The solution is not to restrict states but to restore the NLRB to its original mission: protecting workers, not preventing their protection.
The suspected mastermind of the Nord Stream pipeline attacks in 2022 was remanded in custody in Germany on Friday after his extradition from Italy.

Ukrainian national Serhij K, who cannot be named in full due to German privacy laws, was ordered into detention by a judge at the Federal Court of Justice in Karlsruhe, a spokeswoman for the Federal Prosecutor's Office said.

The attacks on the German-Russian prestige project made headlines around the world in autumn 2022. Several explosions near the Danish island of Bornholm in the Baltic Sea damaged the two pipelines to such an extent that gas could no longer be transported through them.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Russian natural gas had previously flowed through Nord Stream 1 to Germany. Nord Stream 2 was completed shortly before Russia invaded Ukraine, and was never put into operation.

No one has yet been brought to justice for the attacks.

Serhij K, 49, was detained at the end of August while on holiday with his family on the Adriatic coast. He fought his extradition through legal channels and also went on hunger strike due to alleged mistreatment.

Last week, Italy's supreme court gave the green light for his extradition. He was handed over to the German authorities on Thursday.

German prosecutors accuse the man of jointly causing the explosions on the Baltic Sea gas pipelines in 2022. According to the prosecutors, he was one of the coordinators of the operation. He denies the allegations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Investigators say that the team of seven suspects also included four divers.

One of the divers allegedly involved was being held in custody in Poland. However, judges there rejected Germany's extradition request and he has since been released.
Border Police said the shooting occurred during an arrest operation on Route 60, south of Jerusalem.

An off-duty IDF soldier opened fire on a Palestinian suspected of entering Israel illegally near the opening of a tunnel on Route 60, south of Jerusalem, on Thursday, wounding one person, Border Police said.

The shooting happened as Jerusalem area Border Police were acting to detain several individuals who entered Israel illegally during an operation in the area.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The soldier saw the arrests in progress while traveling on a public bus, believed it was a security incident, and got off the bus to fire at the suspects.

Israeli border police officers seen during an operation in the West Bank city of Jenin, February 23, 2025. (credit: CHAIM GOLDBERG/FLASH90)

Border Police kill wanted suspects after apparent surrender

Earlier on Thursday, the IDF and the Israeli police said that they would investigate an incident in which Border Police shot at two wanted Palestinian terrorists after they appeared to surrender during operations in Jenin.

Border Police stated that they identified the building in which the terrorists were hiding and initiated an hours-long attempt to convince the two men to exit the building. When the terrorists refused to exit, Israeli forces used a backhoe to partially open the building's garage door.

This incident came as Border Police personnel were operating in the Jenin area of the northern West Bank, with Israeli Air Force combat helicopters providing support to Commando Brigade forces on the ground, on Thursday afternoon.

Goldie Katz contributed to this report.
One of the two members of the National Guard who were shot in Washington DC on Wednesday has died, US President Donald Trump said.

Sarah Beckstrom, 20, died from her injuries, while the second National Guard member, 24-year-old Andrew Wolfe, was "fighting for his life", Trump said on Thursday evening.

Both were shot at close range near Farragut Square in downtown DC just after 14:00 EST (19:00 GMT) on Wednesday. Police have arrested one suspect in the shooting, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old from Afghanistan.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Friday, the US attorney for Washington DC announced the initial charges of assault against the suspect will be upgraded to "murder in the first degree".

"It is a premeditated murder. There was an ambush with a gun toward people who didn't know what was coming," Jeanine Pirro told Fox and Friends. "And that is the homicide, and that is the murder that we're looking at right now."

The two soldiers who were attacked had been deployed to the US capital as part of the Trump administration's efforts to crack down on what it sees as rampant crime in several US cities.

Trump confirmed Ms Beckstrom's death while on a Thanksgiving call with US service members.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Sarah Beckstrom of West Virginia, one of the guardsmen that we're talking about, highly respected, young, magnificent person... She's just passed away. She's no longer with us," he said.

Trump later spoke to her parents, a White House official told BBC's US partner CBS News.

The US president previously said the attack underlined a major national security threat.

The attack has prompted a range of announcements from the Trump administration aimed at curbing migration from Afghanistan and a number of other countries.

Officials said they would suspend processing all immigration requests from Afghans, and re-examine green cards issued to individuals who migrated to the US from 19 countries.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When asked by the BBC which countries were on the list, the agency pointed to a June proclamation by the White House that included Afghanistan, Cuba, Haiti, Iran, Somalia and Venezuela.

On Thursday, Trump went on to vow to "permanently pause migration" to the US from all "third world countries", without providing details of his plan or naming which countries might be affected.

Victim had volunteered to work on Thanksgiving

Ms Beckstrom had enlisted on 26 June 2023 and was assigned to the 863rd Military Police Company, 111th Engineer Brigade of the West Virginia Army National Guard.

She had volunteered to work in Washington over the US holiday Thanksgiving, Attorney General Pam Bondi told Fox News following the shooting.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"My baby girl has passed to glory," her father Gary Beckstrom posted on Facebook.

The other National Guard member, Andrew Wolfe, is still in a "critical condition".

"We are doing everything we can to assist his family and to make sure that they have everything they need during this difficult time for them," Jeanine Pirro said on Friday morning.

Both soldiers had been on a high-visibility patrol in downtown Washington.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

More than 2,000 troops have been guarding the nation's capital since August, when the president began deploying troops to cities to tackle what he called "out of control" crime.

Ms Beckstrom and Mr Wolfe were deployed in August, the West Virginia National Guard confirmed to BBC News.

National Guard troops are a reservist force that can be activated to serve as military troops, but have limited power as they cannot enforce the law or make arrests.

The location of the shooting, just blocks from the White House, meant a number of law enforcement officials arrived quickly at the scene to treat the two victims and apprehend the gunman.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The suspect was shot four times, law enforcement sources told CBS.

Suspect once worked alongside CIA in Afghanistan

Officials said Mr Lakanwal came to the US from Afghanistan in 2021, under a programme which offered special immigration protections to Afghans in the wake of the US withdrawal from Afghanistan.

At the time, the Taliban had taken back control of Afghanistan, raising fears of retribution against those who had co-operated with the US.

Mr Lakanwal had helped guard US forces at Kabul airport in 2021 as thousands scrambled to escape Afghanistan as the Taliban swept back to power, a former military commander who served alongside him told the BBC.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The suspect had been recruited to Unit 03 of the Kandahar Strike Force. His unit was known locally as Scorpion Forces, operating initially under the CIA but eventually for the Afghan intelligence department known as the National Directorate of Security.

Mr Lakanwal was a GPS tracker specialist, the former commander told the BBC, describing him as a "sporty and jolly character".

His whole unit was moved from Kandahar to Kabul five days before the Taliban entered the capital. They continued to protect the airport for another six days, before they too were airlifted out to the US.

At a press conference on Thursday, FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed Mr Lakanwal's connection to US forces, saying the suspect "had a relationship in Afghanistan with partner forces", before moving to the US.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

CIA Director John Ratcliffe said he worked with the intelligence agency.

Mr Lakanwal applied for asylum in 2024, and his application was granted earlier this year, an official told CBS.

Additional reporting by Hafizullah Maroof and Sayed Abdullah Nizami
Jeanine Pirro, the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, has announced upgraded charges against a man accused of shooting two National Guard members.

The charges are now first-degree murder after the death of Specialist Sarah Beckstrom. Beckstrom, 20, and Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, were critically injured in Wednesdays shooting. President Donald Trump announced Thursday evening that Beckstrom had died.

Authorities say Rahmanullah Lakanwal drove across the country to carry out an ambush-style attack. Pirro mentioned its too soon to determine the suspects motives.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump criticizes the program that brought Afghan refugees to the US who fought the Taliban

The man accused of shooting two National Guard members in Washington is one of about 76,000 Afghans brought to the U.S. after the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan.

The program, called Operation Allies Welcome, was created in 2021. Then-President Joe Biden said the U.S. owed it to those who opposed the Taliban to provide a safe haven.

Critics argued the resettlement process was poorly planned. The accused shooter, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, worked with the CIA in Afghanistan. Resettlement groups emphasize that one individuals actions shouldnt reflect on all Afghan refugees.

Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW
RAMALLAH, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- The Palestinian Authority's presidential spokesman on Friday called on the U.S. administration to intervene "immediately and decisively" to pressure Israel to halt its military operations across the West Bank and Gaza Strip.

Nabil Abu Rudeineh, the spokesman for the Palestinian Authority presidency, warned that Israel's continued military operations, including in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, "will not bring security or stability to anyone, nor will they grant legitimacy to any measures taken by the occupation authorities."

He cited Israeli military activity in several West Bank areas, noting a raid in the city of Tubas for the third consecutive day, alongside ongoing operations in Jenin and its refugee camp, as well as in Tulkarm and its camps. These actions, he said, would keep the region trapped in a cycle of violence.

Abu Rudeineh accused the Israeli government of "defying the entire world" through incessant violations of international law and United Nations resolutions. He argued that such actions undermine efforts to reach a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and eliminate any chance of launching a political process for regional stability.

He reiterated his call for the U.S. to compel Israel to end its "open-ended war against the Palestinian people" and to stop settler violence, which he said threatens to ignite the region and undermine U.S. efforts to reduce tensions.

The spokesman concluded by reiterating the Palestinian position that the Gaza Strip is an integral part of the Palestinian homeland and state, and that its unity with the West Bank and East Jerusalem is "a fixed and non-negotiable right." 
Hungary's Viktor Orban defied the EU Friday by promising Vladimir Putin he will keep buying Russian oil, as he attended a Kremlin meeting held in the midst of a diplomatic push to end Moscow's Ukraine offensive.

Orban -- in power in the EU and NATO country since 2010 -- has throughout the war maintained ties with the Kremlin, while also criticising Hungary's neighbour Ukraine.

It was the Hungarian nationalist's fourth meeting with Putin since Moscow launched Europe's worst conflict since World War II.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The talks will have infuriated Brussels, which has called on EU members to end their dependence on Russian energy and is trying to make its voice heard in peace settlement negotiations on Ukraine.

"We have not given up cooperation (with Russia) in any area, regardless of any external pressure," Orban told Putin.

"I would like to reiterate that energy supplies from Russia form the basis of Hungary's energy supply now and will remain so in the future."

Orban this month said he would take the EU to court over a decision to phase out remaining Russian gas imports to the bloc.

Budapest is heavily reliant on Russian energy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"We greatly appreciate the reliability and predictability of these supplies," Orban said.

Putin thanked the Hungarian leader for what he called Hungary's "balanced position" on Ukraine and for maintaining ties with Russia "despite all the difficulties."

He said Budapest-Moscow ties were based on "pragmatism".

Orban -- facing re-election next year -- said ahead of his trip that he was going to Moscow to "ensure Hungary's energy supply is secured for the winter and the following year at an affordable price".

The 62-year-old has presented himself as a potential mediator on the Ukraine war and reiterated that Hungary was "ready to serve as a venue for peace negotiations."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A summit between Putin and US President Donald Trump was meant to take place in Budapest in October but never happened.

- 'His own ideas on ending war' -

Orban has boasted that Hungary had the lowest energy price in Europe thanks to its access to Russian gas and oil, which he says is "cheap relative to international price levels".

Close to Trump, a political ally, Orban used a trip to Washington earlier this month to secure a one-year US exemption from sanctions for buying Russian oil and gas.

But Washington is yet to publish the official waiver.

Trump had sanctioned Moscow's two largest oil companies in October after losing patience with Putin over his refusal to end the Ukraine offensive.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Orban's trip came a day after Putin once again demanded Ukraine give up land it controls.

The Hungarian leader is seen as the EU's bete noire, and the trip came as Europe scrambled to make sure the United States and Russia will not strike a deal over their heads.

Germany's Friedrich Merz said he was not surprised Orban was travelling to Moscow again.

"He is travelling without a European mandate and without any coordination with us," he said during a Berlin press conference.

"He has his own ideas about ending this war, which so far have not materialised," he added.

Orban has criticised Western support for Kyiv and has said Ukraine has no chance of winning against Russia.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He told Putin on Friday that the almost four-year war is harming Europe's economy and that he hopes the latest diplomatic proposals "will lead to a ceasefire and peace."

Putin has not dropped his maximalist demands that Ukraine cede even more land than Russia occupies.

Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff is due in Moscow next week to discuss an updated US plan to end the Ukraine war with Putin.

The draft plan was initially seen as heeding to most of Putin's demands, but has been reworked by Washington after talks with Kyiv.

bur/st
A European 2025 HIV/AIDS surveillance report has revealed that countries within the continent are currently failing to test and treat HIV early.

The annual report, published by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), was released on 27 November 2025 but looks at 2024 data. While the report identified a small downturn in HIV cases between 2023 and 2024, testing gaps were still highly prevalent.

This is evidenced by the fact that 54% of patients with HIV across the World Health Organization (WHO) European region in 2024 were unable to receive optimal treatment due to late diagnosis.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This is notable as patients with a delayed HIV diagnosis are less likely to gain the full benefits of antiretroviral (ART) therapies. Currently, ART therapies are the mainstay treatment option for patients diagnosed with HIV, as they can suppress viral load and prevent transmission.

According to the annual report, 105,922 HIV diagnoses were made across the WHO European region in 2024, which includes 53 countries. Of those receiving late diagnoses, the highest proportion were heterosexual patients  especially men  as well as people that inject drugs.

As current testing initiatives across Europe are currently failing to diagnose a majority of patients early, the ECDC noted that the 2030 goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat could be in jeopardy.

To ensure this goal is achieved, the ECDC and the WHOs European division are calling for the scale-up and routinisation of HIV testing across the continent, with a key focus on self-testing and community-based options.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO regional director for Europe, tackling the silent HIV crisis will involve removing the deadly barriers of stigma and discrimination that currently discourage individuals from seeking out a HIV test.

Meanwhile, Pamela Rendi-Wagner, director of the ECDC, stressed the importance of innovating testing strategies, while ensuring rapid linkage to care to improve patient outcomes.

A major hit to global HIV treatment efforts came this year came when President Donald Trump cut a large amount of funding for foreign aid. This impacted HIV, malaria and tuberculosis treatment services in low-income countries supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

Trump also trimmed financial support for the presidents Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). The plan has become a major pillar in fighting the global HIV/AIDS response, providing testing services, antiretroviral treatment and education programmes.

HIV treatments advance

Currently, HIV remains a major threat to public health, with the WHO estimating that 40.8 million were living with the disease globally at the end of 2024.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

However, there are a wide range of effective ART options available to patients, meaning that those with access to medications have a similar life expectancy to an individual living without HIV.

The most widely prescribed ART is currently Gileads Biktarvy (bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide), which had a strong financial showing in Q2 2025, with sales jumping 9% to $3.5bn.

While the drugs patent is up for expiry as early as October 2027, GlobalData analysts predict that no other HIV therapy is likely to surpass Biktarvy in terms of commercial success.

Alongside Biktarvy, Gilead has found a new key asset in Yeztugo (lenacapavir), which the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved as a biannual pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for patients at risk of HIV in June 2025.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While this treatment is only suitable as a preventive measure, GlobalData analysts note that the therapy is set to revolutionise the HIV landscape.

Now, some companies are looking to cure HIV completely. This includes American Gene Technologies, which is currently looking to take its potentially curative cell therapy, AGT103-T, to additional trials after a Phase I study yielded promising results.

The International AIDS Vaccine Initiative is also working towards a preventive vaccine for HIV, which has seen an adenovirus vaccine enter Phase I clinical trials in Africa. Currently, the jab is being tested in both HIV-positive and HIV-negative individuals.

"Over half of European HIV patients diagnosed late, ECDC report finds " was originally created and published by Pharmaceutical Technology, a GlobalData owned brand.




LIMA  The Trump administration is overhauling its homeless prevention program to prioritize transitional housing and treatment for people who become homeless due to addiction or mental health disorders, as the administration seeks to end the housing-first philosophy in which treatment is voluntary.

Housing-first advocates say the change could result in thousands of Ohioans returning to homelessness, while Trump administration officials say redirecting funds toward transitional housing will end a pandemic-era slush fund that perpetuated homelessness through a failed housing-first ideology.

The Department of Housing and Urban Development outlined changes to its Continuum of Care grant program in a notice of funding opportunity issued to housing nonprofits earlier this month.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The West Ohio Community Action Partnership now anticipates an $180,000 reduction in grant funding for its rapid rehousing and homeless prevention programs for the next two years, Housing Director Leora Donley said.

Statewide, advocates from the Ohio Coalition on Homelessness and Housing say the change would divert $80 million from similar programs in Ohio. The group calls it a sudden reversal for HUD, which had announced $178 million in Continuum of Care funding for Ohio housing nonprofits in January.

The coalition estimates the change could result in as many as 10,000 Ohio households returning to homelessness due to cuts in housing deposit and rental assistance.

Our models have always worked on the housing-first premise, WOCAPs Donley said. The idea is that having stable housing then gives somebody the ability to start working on their other issues.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The proposal would require people who are homeless due to addiction or mental health disorders to seek treatment to qualify for housing assistance. Donley said this would effectively criminalize homelessness.

WOCAP assisted 45 households at risk of eviction with past-due rent in 2024 and 2025, Donley said. The agency assisted another 62 households exiting the shelter system or living on the street with housing deposits and up to three months of rental assistance.

Now, Donley says WOCAP will only have enough funding to assist 20 households over the next two years, despite high demand for assistance amid rising rents, utility bills and grocery prices.

HUD Secretary Scott Turner described the change as one of the most significant policy reforms in HUDs history.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Our philosophy for addressing the homelessness crisis will now define success not by dollars spent nor housing units filled, but by how many people achieve long-term self-sufficiency and recovery, Turner said in a statement. We are stopping the Biden-era slush fund that fueled the homelessness crisis, shut out faith-based providers simply because of their values and incentivized never-ending government dependency.

These long-overdue reforms will promote independence and ensure we are supporting means-tested approaches to carry out the presidents mandate, connect Americans with the help they need and make our cities and towns beautiful and safe.
One Putnam County family that spoke with Action News Jax didnt celebrate Thanksgiving this year.

Their table now has an empty seat after the death of their loved one in a motorcycle crash last week.

The family of 21-year-old Michael Terry is identifying him only to Action News Jax as the man killed at the intersection of SR-19 and Horseman Club Road in Palatka last week. His mother, Stephanie, told us he was three miles from her house when she found out he wouldnt come home again.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its hard, its been really hard, Stephanie Friend said, Ive been angry, hurt, crying, not realizing that this is real.

The Florida Highway Patrol said the crash happened right before 8:00 PM on November 16th. FHPs news release from the crash said a man on a motorcycle, identified as Terry, was driving on Horseman Club Road when he pulled out onto SR-19 and into the path of an SUV that ended up hitting the back of the motorcycle. FHP said the man died in the crash.

Terrys mother described him to us as a pure soul, someone who loved making music, spending time with his family, and riding motorcycles, the last thing he did before he died.

Who is supposed to be prepared for this? To deal with the loss of their child? They are supposed to bury us, said Friend.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Action News Jax looked at motorcycle crash data from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles and found that four more people across northeast Florida have died in motorcycle crashes this year, compared to last year. We also found that 2025 has been the deadliest year for motorcycle drivers in our area since 2021.

Friend said the pain of her sons life being taken away has made it too difficult to try and have Thanksgiving with family. She told us her father died in 2018, her mother died in 2020, and her brother died in 2021, from COVID. She said shes tired of and hurt by losing her loved ones.

At this point, the only reason Im doing Christmas is because of my grandkids, said Friend, I dont even want to do anything this year, Id feel guilty if I did.

Action News Jax has requested the full report of last weeks crash, but we are still waiting to receive it. Friend has started a fundraiser to help pay for her sons funeral services, which, if you would like to support, you can find at the link here.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

[DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks]

[SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter]

Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live.
A pastor from a local church was killed Nov. 25 when his motorcycle collided with another vehicle in a traffic crash near Atlantis.

The Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office identified the person who died as Joshua R. Rene, 39, of Lantana. According to an online biography, Rene was an executive pastor of Journey Church, a non-denominational Christian church with locations in West Palm Beach, Lake Worth Beach and Boynton Beach.

The sheriff's office reported that the crash happened shortly before 7 p.m. on the 6200 block of South Congress Avenue.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Investigators say Rene was traveling north on Congress on a Harley Davidson motorcycle when a GMC Sierra pickup traveling south veered into the motorcycle's path as the pickup was making a left turn into the Atlantis Plaza.

A sheriff's crash report states the pickup driver failed to see the motorcycle in time to avoid the collision. It identified the pickup driver as a 50-year-old man from Stuart. According to the sheriff's report, the GMC pickup struck the Harley Davidson's front tire, ejecting Rene from the motorcycle and onto the roadway. He died at the scene.

More: Is the stock market open today? Black Friday hours

More: Barron Trump makes 1st appearance since inauguration at home in Florida

Stock fire rescue siren.

Multiple tributes to Rene have been posted online, and Journey Church released a brief statement on its social media pages asking for support for his family. Pastor Scott Baugh discussed Rene's death in a video message posted to the church's Facebook page on Thanksgiving morning.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"It just doesn't feel real," Baugh said. "I don't know what to say. For so many of you, he was Pastor Josh and he was an amazing pastor. But to me he was just Josh. He was a friend, as close as a brother to me for 10 years."

The sheriff's report did not indicate whether the driver of pickup will face any charges or citations.

Julius Whigham II is a criminal justice and public safety reporter for The Palm Beach Post. You can reach him at jwhigham@pbpost.com and follow him on Twitter at @JuliusWhigham. Help support our work: Subscribe today.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Pastor Joshua Rene dies in motorcycle crash near Atlantis
The White House posted in September an article touting President Trumps Top 100 Victories for People of Faith, claiming that he is the most pro-faith and pro-religious liberty president in American history.

While the president has, indeed, taken steps to buttress religious freedom, we believe that some of the former presidents the administration hints hes surpassed might be quite alarmed at the impact his other consequential steps will likely have on the religious lives of millions of Americans.

In fairness, we, a committed conservative and a committed liberal  both experienced advocates of religious liberty  are encouraged that the Trump administration has maintained the White House Faith Office and the Centers for Faith in every department offering guidance on constitutionally valid forms of partnership between faith groups and the government.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Other steps the administration has taken, however  steps that should be encouraging  are being done in a way that raises concerns for many religious liberty advocates like us and may turn those victories to defeats.

Thus, we recognize the support for religious freedom in establishing a Religious Liberty Commission earlier this year, which can be positive if it offers constitutionally acceptable ways to enhance and promote religious liberty for Americans of all religions. We do share concerns about whether this new commissions focus will remain primarily on Christian religious liberty in the most religiously diverse nation in the world.

We strongly support Trumps nomination of former Rep. Mark Walker, R-North Carolina, as U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom, a position within the U.S. Department of State. But we fear little is being done to confirm him in this vital and urgently needed post.

Of course, all of this must be viewed in the context of Trump having named during his first term three justices who deeply value religious freedom to the Supreme Court: Justice Neil M. Gorsuch, Justice Brett M. Kavanaugh and Justice Amy Coney Barrett. However, we do have concerns. First, we are watching whether they will give adequate weight to the establishment clause stipulating that Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.

President Donald Trump, left, greets justices of the Supreme Court, from left, Elena Kagan, Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett, before addressing a joint session of Congress at the Capitol in Washington, March 4, 2025. | J. Scott Applewhite, Associated Press

And, second, we are watching closely how these justices will balance sincere religious freedom claims for exemptions from civil rights laws against the governments compelling interest in protecting the civil rights of all Americans  an issue on which these justices views will be pivotal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But we think that President Trumps most serious impact on religious liberty is not to be found in particular programs, offices, or policies addressing religious freedom, but with his broader steps taken that impact the health of our American democracy as a whole.

Concurrent with his administrations religious liberty victories, Trump has also been testing the broader framework of our nations constitutional order and the rule of law.

The Constitution and its full array of varied rights is more important than any of its parts. And President Trump has proudly taken steps to chill freedom of speech, freedom of the press, freedom to protest and the protections of due process.

In our view, he has also done serious damage to our constitutional separation of powers ignoring congressional authority and federal court rulings. And he undercut our electoral system, so vital to our democracy, by subverting the electoral college clauses in his attempt to stay in power after losing the 2020 election.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In an ABC interview earlier this year, President Trump said he didnt know when asked whether he is required to uphold the Constitution in the context of challenges to his immigration policies.

In the long run, no single freedom, including religious liberty, will long survive without the full panoply of fundamental rights and a robust commitment to the rule of law that protects those rights.

If there is no freedom of speech, there will be no guarantee of freedom of the pulpit. If freedom of the press withers, the right to publish our sacred texts, religious educational materials and share congregational communications is likewise imperiled.

If freedom of assembly gets limited, our freedom to gather in worship or publicly celebrate our holidays also becomes endangered. Without the right to protest the government for redress of grievances, the prophetic witness of our faith communities and their widely held obligation to preach truth can also be stilled.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We have already seen the government challenge the special status of houses of worship from ICE invasive searches without warrants, while also drastically reducing or cancelling support for Catholic Charities, Church World Service and Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society programs which serve immigrant communities.

A person holds a sign reading "Quakers demand no ICE in houses of worship" as Quakers and their supporters gather at an outdoor theater near the Washington Monument, Thursday, May 22, 2025, in Washington, on the final day of a march of more than 300 miles from New York City to Washington, D.C., to demonstrate against the Trump administration's crackdown on immigrants. | Mark Schiefelbein, Associated Press

No matter the administrations declarations of support for religious liberty, if we lose our other democratic freedoms and protections, there will be no guarantee of freedom of religion, just as without freedom of religion and its attendant freedom of conscience all other rights are greatly weakened.

That some of these impositions on our democratic freedoms are being done in the name of religious freedom or fighting persecution of religion, intensifies these concerns.

Some religious denominations and organizations that have spoken out about concern for a weakening of democracy see the administrations favoring of religious freedom as an exception to this broader worrisome trend.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The President may be counting on religious liberty advocates to forget the forest (the Constitution) for the trees (free exercise and establishment clauses of the First Amendment).

President Donald Trump arrives to speak to the White House Religious Liberty Commission during an event at the Museum of the Bible, Monday, Sept. 8, 2025, in Washington. | Evan Vucci, Associated Press

It is time for all who care about religious freedom, whether supporters of this administration or its critics, to stand up and ensure that Americas constitutional system, which integrates all fundamental rights and the rule of law that protects those rights, continues to flourish.

Only then will religious freedom for all be secured.
Its a jewel of the Connecticut shoreline.

After decades of erosion from rising seas that have eaten away at the coastline of Hammonasset Beach State Park in Madison, a plan is underway to restore dozens of acres of salt marsh that provide critical habitat for thousands of native species.

Audubon Connecticut, the local chapter of the National Audubon Society, has received funding to kickstart a major salt marsh restoration project at the states largest public beach. Hammonasset Beach features 936 acres of coastal ecosystem for birds, plants and aquatic wildlife.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hammonasset Beach is an essential ecosystem that features a unique combination of marshland, grassland and coast that benefits wildlife and neighboring communities alike, said Corrie Folsom-OKeefe, director of bird conservation at Audubon Connecticut. The park is home to Saltmarsh Sparrows, Piping Plovers and Brown Thrashers. Restoring this site is essential to maintaining its ecological, recreational and economic value.

Over the last two decades, yearly erosion rates have nearly doubled due to rising seas brought on by climate change, according to Folsom-OKeefe. Erosion has contributed to the loss of 27 acres of salt marsh since 1934, leading to the erosion of the beachs eastern shoreline and the decline of essential habitat for many protected species.

Once restored, officials say Hammonasset Beach will see a reduction in erosion rates and salt marsh loss along 3,000 feet of coastline, according to officials. This will ensure that the state park will continue to provide critical habitat for thousands of species for decades to come, she said.

We are currently completing assessments and preliminary designs for a living shoreline and culvert replacement that will protect park marshes and provide habitat for birds. Simultaneously, staff have been working with CT DEEP educators to provide teacher trainings and field trips for their students to the park, she said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The announcement comes after just over $2.6 million in congressionally directed spending was awarded last year for the project. The federal dollars came from the 2024 Omnibus Appropriations Bill, according to Audubon. U.S. Sens. Chris Murphy and Richard Blumenthal both worked with Audubon Connecticut to secure the funding.

Because of the combination of beach, forest and grassland landscapes, this site has special educational value to young people to learn about conservation in their area, and provides a place for the community to enjoy the outdoors, said Jack Matthias, manager of coastal resilience for Audubon Connecticut. This funding will not only help conserve the park, but also provide opportunities for everyone to play a role in maintaining local outdoor spaces.

Audubon Connecticut and the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection led the first phase of the project. This included site assessments, data collection and developing project design plans. The next step is to get the public involved in the process through community engagement and events, according to officials. The third phase will be implementation and the restoration of coastline.

As part of a community engagement initiative, Audubon is set to host a public meeting on Dec. 8, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Scranton Library in Madison. The public is invited to learn more about the project at Hammonasset Beach State Park and share concerns they may have. Registration is required to attend the event at scrantonlibrary.org.

Stephen Underwood can be reached at sunderwood@courant.com.
A woman on Reddit sparked a wave of outrage and sympathy after revealing that her mom regularly claims theyre broke, while secretly sending thousands of dollars to a megachurch. My mom says we dont have enough money, but I catch her giving thousands of dollars monthly to a megachurch, the person wrote on r/mildlyinfuriating earlier this year. The post, which included a photo of a $600 online donation receipt to Bill Winston Ministries, drew over 142,000 upvotes and more than 7,600 comments.
Philadelphia police rushed to the 800 block of Emerson Street in the city's Fox Chase section around 11:30 p.m. on Thursday.

"They found a 25-year-old male laying in the front driveway. He was suffering from a gunshot wound to his chest and he was unresponsive," said Philadelphia Police Chief Inspector Scott Small.

Medics transported the victim to Jefferson-Torresdale Hospital, where he later died. Witnesses told police the 25-year-old lived in the home where the homicide happened.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Investigators recovered six shell casings inside the house, most of them in the victim's bedroom, indicating the shooter followed him inside.

"The 25-year-old victim and shooter were involved in an argument right outside of the front door of the property. And during the argument, the shooter pulled a gun. And that's when the 25-year-old victim ran inside of the property where he lives. The shooter followed the victim inside and began firing shots," said Small.

Residents say they're stunned this happened in their quiet neighborhood.

"Things like this don't typically happen around here. Sorry to hear about it. Hope the family's doing okay," said a resident.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Police said the shooter, believed to be 24 or 25 years old, took off in a white sedan.

"We have the individual's name, and we do have a last known address. So we're pretty confident we know who the shooter is," said Small.

With help from witnesses and surveillance cameras, investigators are confident they can track down the suspect. Still, neighbors say the violence is unsettling.

"I'm sure everybody in the neighborhood is upset about this, including myself. I don't like to see this kind of stuff happen," said a resident.

Police said the homicide does not appear to be related to any Thanksgiving festivities.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

No arrests have been made, and a weapon was not recovered at the scene. The identity of the victim is being withheld pending family notification.

The investigation is ongoing with the Philadelphia Police Department Homicide Unit. Police are asking anyone with information regarding this incident to call the PPD's tipline at 215-686-TIPS (8477).


PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  Its been more than five months since the Rowena Fire ravaged close to 4,000 acres of the Columbia River Gorge. While the cleanup effort started as soon as the flames were put out, some survivors are still trying to pick up the pieces.

For Floyd Barber Jr., its been a long five months since the Rowena Fire. Its hard to forget the heartbreaking images. When KOIN 6 Reporter Ariel Iacobazzi first met Floyd in June, it was hours after the flames tore through most of his property; he said he lost two-thirds of it.

Its pretty rough here, he told KOIN 6 News.



Rough because every day, he still wakes up to the charred landscape, and he said the recovery process has been very, very little.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement





Floyds son David also lives on the property, his house burned.

Now hes in a trailer with his daughters and dogs.

Its hard to take a break from because we look out the window and its right here in front of us, David said.

Unique Thanksgiving celebrations held around Portland

The aftermath of the Rowena Fire in Wasco County still shows extensive damage, five months later. November 27, 2025. Rowena Fire damage in Wasco County Oregon. June 12, 2025 (KOIN). Rowena Fire damage in Wasco County Oregon. June 12, 2025 (KOIN). Rowena Fire damage in Wasco County Oregon. June 12, 2025 (KOIN). Rowena Fire damage in Wasco County Oregon. June 12, 2025 (KOIN). The Rowena Fire near The Dalles in Oregon. June 11, 2025 (KOIN). The Rowena Fire near The Dalles in Oregon. June 11, 20205 (KOIN). The Rowena Fire near The Dalles in Oregon. June 11, 2025 (KOIN). The Rowena Fire near The Dalles in Oregon. June 11, 20205 (KOIN). The Rowena Fire near The Dalles in Oregon. June 11, 2025 (KOIN).

Almost half a year after the tragedy struck, Floyd said they havent received a penny from the charity United Way, which is raising money for Rowena Fire survivors. And the Barbers said when it comes to state help, theres not much luck there either.



But there could be some hope on the horizon.

Last week, Oregon legislators on the Joint Emergency Board voted to give $2.5 million to the Oregon Department of Emergency Management to help with cleanup effort in Wasco County.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Astoria theatre celebrates magic of 50th Nutcracker

Lawmakers acknowledged the scope of the Rowena Fire apparently didnt meet federal standards for a natural disaster.

Were not going to always be able to do this, but the fact that we can is greatly, greatly appreciated, said Representative Gregory Smith.

Meantime, Floyd and his family are still waiting, taking things day by day. But this Thanksgiving, theyre thankful for the help theyve received from their neighbors.



I didnt realize there was that many people who cared. You know, that there was a kind of real heartwarming feeling, said David, Floyds son.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

We reached out to United Way to see why those funds may not have been given. KOIN 6 is still waiting to hear back.

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 KOIN.com.
MINSK, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- Belarus has exported over 30 billion U.S. dollars of food and agricultural raw materials during the first four years of its current five-year plan, a Belarusian official said Thursday.

Natalya Kochanova, chairwoman of the Council of the Republic of the National Assembly of Belarus, stressed the importance of developing the agro-industrial complex, the processing industry, natural resource management, and ecology, the BelTA news agency reported.

"These sectors ensure the country's economic and food security, provide employment for hundreds of thousands of people, and create the necessary conditions for a comfortable life for citizens," she said.

Kochanova noted that Belarus has achieved significant results in the agricultural sector thanks to dedication and hard work of employees in sectoral enterprises and farms. 
Foreign visitors to some of the United States' most popular national parks will face higher fees next year, the US Department of the Interior has announced.

Starting in January 2026, foreign visitors aged 16 and over will pay an additional $100 per person on top of regular entry fees at 11 of the country's top parks, including Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Yosemite and Glacier. Children are exempt. Standard park entry currently averages about $35 per car.

Foreign visitors can also purchase an annual pass for $250, covering all passengers in a single vehicle, but those entering by bus or on foot will have to pay the $100 surcharge.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

US citizens and permanent residents will pay $80 for the annual pass from January. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said in November the changes ensure affordable access for Americans while asking international visitors to help support park maintenance and conservation for future generations.

The new fees implement a July executive order by US President Donald Trump emphasizing his "America first" policy, which prioritized US citizens in government programmes.

Parks affected include Acadia, Bryce Canyon, Everglades, Glacier, Grand Canyon, Grand Teton, Rocky Mountain, Sequoia & Kings Canyon, Yellowstone, Yosemite and Zion National Parks.

The US National Parks Service manages a total of 428 national parks, memorials, coastal areas and other protected and recreational areas.

Fee-free days over for tourists

Visitors have traditionally been able to enjoy free admission to parks on a handful of national holidays every year, however the Department of the Interior says the eight days in 2026 will only apply to US citizens.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For anyone planning a trip to the Grand Canyon National Park despite the price hike, the best times are around May and October, when temperatures are more moderate compared with the torrid, 40-degree summertime heat of northern Arizona. As such, the free days in April and September may be preferable over the free days in June and August.

The price hike isn't the only one that the Trump administration is imposing on tourists. As part of the controversial "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" signed into law by US President Donald Trump in July, the ESTA fee for travellers to the United States is jumped from $21 to $40 on September 30.

Once issued, an ESTA is valid for two years, provided the traveller's passport remains valid for the same period. If the passport expires earlier, the ESTA also becomes invalid at that time.

If you already have an ESTA, it may help to know that the authorization only needs to be valid at the time of entry into the US, not for the entire duration of the stay.

Crackdown on immigration

The price hikes come as a series of arrests at US borders has unsettled both holidaymakers and foreigners living in America.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Amid a crackdown on immigration, there have now been several cases of people having been denied entry despite having full documentation, including visas and residency permits. In some cases, those affected were held in deportation centres for days or weeks.

The accumulation of cases suggests that these are linked to a stricter line taken by border officials as part of recent migration policy. During the election campaign, Trump had promised significantly stronger border protection and more deportations.

On his first day, he signed an executive order stating that foreigners - whether in the country or entering it - should be vetted as much as possible.

Measured against the number of travellers entering the United States, the cases are still a small fraction. Nevertheless, Foreign Offices in London and Berlin have supplemented their travel advice for the US.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Previous convictions in the US, false information about the purpose of a stay or even a slight overstay when travelling can lead to arrest, detention and deportation upon entry or exit," the German Foreign Office website says.

The ministry also says that ESTA authorizations for visa-free travel and a US visa do not guarantee the holder entry to the United States. In fact, travellers have recently reported much harsher questioning at airports and border crossings. Language barriers can make conversations even more difficult.
NEW YORK  Cops arrested four protesters who tried to block the entrance of the Midtown Apple Store during a Black Friday sale, police said.

A coalition of about 70 protesters, including pro-Palestinian demonstrators, holding signs reading, Think before you buy and Israel is killing children, and waving Palestinian flags, stopped outside the Apple Store on Fifth Ave. at E. 59th St. across from Central Park, where salespersons were offering Apple gift cards of up to $250 for each purchase as part of a Black Friday promotion.

More than a dozen cops were on hand to quickly handcuff protesters who refused to move from the scene or fought back against the officers.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Four protesters were handcuffed and detained. Charges were not immediately filed, an NYPD spokesman said.

The protesters claimed the tech giant benefits from exploitative cobalt mining in the Congo, and also slammed Apples ties to ICE and President Donald Trump.

The protesters continued south along Fifth Ave. after the arrests, cops said.

The Black Friday demonstration occurred not far from the Park East Synagogue on E. 67th St., where pro-Palestinian protesters on Nov. 19 held a tumultuous rally at which participants screamed Intifada! Death to the IDF! and Resistance! Take another settler out! as members of Nefesh BNefesh  an organization that assists Jewish immigration to Israel from the U.S. and Canada  were holding a program inside.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Pro-Israel advocates and Jewish leaders blasted the protest as antisemitic, and Gov. Kathy Hochul called it a blatant attack on the Jewish community.

On Saturday, Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch visited the synagogue and apologized to the congregation, saying that her officers should have set up a frozen zone outside the entrance, which would have pushed the protesters further back.

_____
By Matteo Negri

POMPEII, Italy (Reuters) -Pompeii's ancient Roman frescoes, shattered and buried for centuries, could get a second life thanks to a pioneering robotic system designed to support archaeologists in one of their most painstaking tasks: reassembling fragmented artefacts.

The technology, developed under an EU-funded project called RePAIR, combines advanced image recognition, AI-driven puzzle-solving, and ultra-precise robotic hands to accelerate traditionally slow and often frustrating restoration work.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Launched in 2021 and coordinated by Venice's Ca' Foscari University, the robotic project showcased in Pompeii on Thursday brought together international research teams that have used the archaeological site as their testing ground.

The experimental project "actually started from a very concrete necessity to recompose fragments of frescoes that had been destroyed during the Second World War," said the site's director Gabriel Zuchtriegel.

Researchers believe the technology could transform restoration practices worldwide.

The robot uses twin arms equipped with flexible hands in two sizes and vision sensors to identify, grip and assemble fragments without damaging their delicate surfaces.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The once-thriving city of Pompeii, near Naples, and its surrounding countryside were submerged by volcanic ash when Mount Vesuvius exploded in AD 79.

Researchers focused on frescoes preserved in a fragmentary state in Pompeii's storerooms -- two large ceiling paintings which were damaged during the initial eruption and later shattered by bombing in World War Two, and frescoes from the so-called 'House of the Gladiators' which collapsed in 2010.

Replicas were created during this initial testing phase to avoid risking the original pieces.

While the robotics teams worked on designing and building the system, experts in artificial intelligence and machine learning developed algorithms to reconstruct the frescoes, matching colours and patterns that may not be visible to the human eye.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Experts say the task is similar to solving a giant jigsaw puzzle, with extra difficulties such as missing pieces and no reference image of the final result.

"It's like you buy four or five boxes of jigsaw puzzles. You mix everything together, then you throw away the boxes and try to solve four or five puzzles at the same time," said Marcello Pelillo, the Venice university professor who coordinated the project.

(Editing by Gavin Jones and Crispian Balmer)
Quebec says it will intensify its crackdown on public displays of religion in a sweeping new law that critics say pushes Canadian provinces into private spaces and disproportionately affects Muslims.

Bill 9, introduced by the governing Coalition Avenir Quebec on Thursday, bans prayer in public institutions, including in colleges and universities. It also bans communal prayer on public roads and in parks, with the threat of fines of C$1,125 for groups in contravention of the prohibition. Short public events with prior approval are exempt.

CAQ has made secularism a key legislative priority, passing the controversial Bill 21  which bans some public sector employees from wearing religious symbol  in 2019. It plans to extend that prohibition to anyone working in daycares, colleges, universities and private schools. Full face coverings would be banned for anyone in those institutions, including students.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Quebecs secularism minister, Jean-Francois Roberge, said the controversial new provisions were the latest steps in a province working towards full secularization. He criticized previous accommodations by post-secondary institutions, including prayer rooms, telling reporters the schools are not temples or churches or those kinds of places. The ban on public prayer comes after the group Montreal4Palestine organized Sunday protests outside the citys Notre-Dame Basilica that included prayers.

Its shocking to see people blocking traffic, taking possession of the public space without a permit, without warning, and then turning our streets, our parks, our public squares into places of worship, said Roberge.

The province will also limit the offering of kosher and halal meals in public institutions. We think that when the state is neutral, Quebecers are free, said Roberge, rejecting allegations the law disproportionately affects minorities. We have the same rules applying to everyone, he said.

But for Muslim students, the new rules fee[l] like a personal attack against our community, Ines Rarrbo, a first-year mechanical engineering student, told the Canadian Press. Its as if were not welcome here.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Related: It shut all my doors: how a Quebec law banning religious symbols derails womens careers

Stephen Brown, president of the National Council of Canadian Muslims, said the move amounts to political opportunism and reflects a doubling down on identity politics and division in a desperate attempt to regain the publics trust.

In a statement, the Assembly of Quebec Catholic Bishops said the proposed bill would be a radical infringement on the rights and freedoms of the Quebec population and that the government has not demonstrated the need for such legislation.

Bill 21 bars judges, police officers, prison guards and teachers from wearing religious symbols while at work. Other public workers such as bus drivers, doctors and social workers must only keep their faces uncovered.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The legislation runs afoul of both Quebecs charter of human rights and freedoms and Canadas charter of rights and freedoms but in 2021, Quebecs superior court upheld the statute despite a finding that the law violates the freedom of expression and religion of religious minorities. Governments in Canada can pass laws that breaches certain fundamental rights if they use a legal mechanism known as a the notwithstanding clause.

Like Bill 21, the new legislation also invokes the clause pre-emptively, shielding it from challenges under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Canadas supreme court is expected to hear a legal challenge to the use of the notwithstanding clause in the coming months.
Australia's Queensland Government is advancing the initial stage of the 64-bed Cairns Hospital expansion as part of the A$18.5bn ($12.07bn) hospital rescue plan.

The practical completion of the hospitals clinic is achieved and services are expected to commence before the year-end.

This new specialist outpatient clinic will serve patients with tuberculosis, respiratory and rheumatology conditions, offering a more accessible, larger and modern space for care.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Far North Queenslanders will benefit from the expanded clinic, which is designed to make health services accessible. It will offer cardiopulmonary exercise testing.

Queensland health and ambulance services minister Tim Nicholls said: The relocated and expanded clinical space includes more consult rooms and treatment areas.

The addition of a respiratory laboratory will, for the first time, offer cardiopulmonary exercise testing to assess exercise capacity and how well the heart and lungs function during exercise.

We're delivering for Cairnsnot only through this relocation, refurbishment and expansion project, but we're getting on with the job to fix Labors botched planning, which would have failed to deliver more beds and a much-needed surgical centre.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The clinic is scheduled to open on 22 December, providing patients and their families with improved access to appointments.

Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service chief executive Leena Singh said: The expansion of the number of respiratory labs will improve access for patients requiring lung function testing for conditions such as asthma, emphysema, lung cancer and silicosis, or for those monitored for medication side effects or exposure to asbestos and silica dust.

In July 2024, the Queensland government announced plans to invest A$27m to expand access to virtual emergency care services.

"Queensland government advances first stage of Cairns Hospital expansion" was originally created and published by Hospital Management, a GlobalData owned brand.




TALLAHASSEE, Florida  Even with a quiet Atlantic hurricane season coming to a close, Florida's coastal counties still face damaged and eroded beaches from a busy 2024 season.

And when the Legislature reconvenes in January, local governments will be asking for a big boost in funding for repairing and maintaining Florida's beaches.

"Our message is that beaches are the economic heartbeat of the state of Florida," Pepper Uchino, president of the Florida Shore and Beach Preservation Association, told POLITICO. "By far, beaches are the most identified part of Florida's brand."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A Department of Environmental Protection recovery plan issued earlier this year said local governments are facing $242 million in costs to replace sand eroded in 2024 by hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton.

The Florida Shore and Beach Preservation Association, which represents cities and counties on coastal issues, will also be asking lawmakers to increase annual funding for beach sand maintenance from $50 million to $75 million.

But even beach funding supporters warn that requests to boost spending will face a challenging budget climate in the Florida Legislature.

"We need additional funding for our beach renourishment program," said state Sen. Debbie Mayfield (R-Melbourne). "The budget is going to be tight. We'll have to see what happens."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Hell yeah, it's going to be challenging," state House budget chief Lawrence McClure (R-Dover) said of the budget outlook this year. "That's the job we all signed up for. It should be challenging."

Tourism in Florida is a major economic driver  the largest according to some researchers, with leisure and hospitality producing more than 2 million jobs.

A 2015 study by the state Office of Economic and Demographic Research found each dollar spent on beach management and restoration produced a $5.40 return in state tax revenue.

"Maintaining the beaches at a level of high quality is important, but once the beaches have reached that level, there are diminishing economic returns to beach investment," the EDR report said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Uchino said he believes the return on investment is even higher now. The Florida Shore and Beach Preservation Association also will ask the Legislature to update its 2015 study, Uchino said.

Renourished beaches additionally provide nesting areas for threatened and endangered sea turtles and habitat for migrating shorebirds. And they buffer homes, restaurants, hotels and roads against strong waves from hurricanes and other storms.

A local example of the impact of storms on beaches is Volusia County, which had gone 12 years with no hurricanes until 2016, when it was battered by hurricanes Matthew, Irma and Dorian.

The county received $77 million in grant funding in 2023 after hurricanes Ian and Nicole ravaged the coast again. Milton battered the coast again last year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Sand is sacrificial, and it did exactly what it's supposed to do," Jessica Fentress, Volusia County's coastal director, said earlier this month. "It buffered the upland property owners and associated economies from major damage."

DEP's beach maintenance program has received at least $50 million for each of the past five years and received a big boost in fiscal 2021-22 with the infusion of federal pandemic relief funding.

The Legislature also provided more than $100 million in 2022 and 2023 for damage caused by hurricanes Ian and Nicole.

The 2024 hurricane season report that DEP issued in March identified non-federal costs for beach projects totaling around $74 million for Lee County, nearly $46 million in Charlotte County, $42.4 million for Pinellas County and $36 million in Sarasota County.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Some of those costs include projects in state parks, such as $15 million for repairing a seawall at Gasparilla Island.

"While the plan was not funded in this fiscal years budget, DEP continues to support local governments with available funding and technical assistance in their recovery efforts," department spokesperson Alexandra Kuchta said in a statement.

Uchino said coastlines that are not repaired for erosion caused by the 2024 hurricanes could drop into the DEP maintenance program as "critically eroded" beaches, creating even more financial drain on the program.

That program, with $50 million a year, can't keep up with the needs caused by ongoing beach erosion, Uchino said. That's why his association plans to request $75 million in the upcoming legislative session.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

McClure told POLITICO in response that the state faces a three-year budget forecast that predicts revenue deficits. Plus, House leadership wants to review recurring spending so that future legislatures are not bound by the past decisions of lawmakers.

"The purpose of this body  right?  is to gather every year and pass a constitutionally balanced budget," McClure said. "And we should exercise our brains and deliberate over every taxpayer dollar."

Charlie Hunsicker, Manatee County's director of natural resources, said tourism is the driving force behind Florida's economy and the state's beaches must be maintained.

"Florida cannot afford to stand down from that commitment and let our beaches erode to the point people are choosing to go to close to Mexico or the Carolinas for their summer vacations," Hunsicker said. "Why come here and walk on rock?"
TEXARKANA, Texas (KTAL/KMSS)  Thanksgiving just isnt the same without a plate piled high with turkey, sides, and maybe even a slice of pie. So every year on Thanksgiving, Randy Sams Outreach Center invites the community to a free feast.

Because theres a need, theres a big need, and the homeless population in Texarkana has been steadily growing, year after year, and, in addition to that, it seems like everybody has some kind of strain on them. says Jennifer Lacefield, executive director of Randy Sams.

They shelter the homeless year round but during times like these they recognize that many are still in need, even if they are fortunate enough to have a roof over their head.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I would say probably half of the people that are here are not Randy Sams residents, and I recognize some that are not homeless. So people that are just really struggling right now. says Lacefield, So because of the publics help with donating all kinds of food items, were very happy to be able to provide them with a hearty, Thanksgiving meal that they would have otherwise been able to have at home, if they had the means to.

No matter what their reason for coming though it is a reason to be thankful.



It was great. It helped the community out a lot. It fed the public. Randy Sams does a great job of feeding the community, and it helped with everyone. says Antoine Edwards, who enjoyed his Thanksgiving meal at the shelter.

Randy Sams also handed out cold weather items to anyone in need of help to stay warm, and they are asking for more donations to replenish those supplies ahead of the winter months.

The last five weeks our shelter numbers have been higher than what they normally are for this time of year, and January is always our most populated month as far as our shelter residents. So, weve been asking for more donations than what we normally do. says Lacefield, We are still asking for more cold weather clothing items, scarves, gloves, hats, blankets, coats, also cold and flu medicine. Thats not really something people think about us needing, but well well start to experience a lot of illness in the shelter.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Donations can be dropped off at Randy Sams located at 402 Oak Street.

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 KTALnews.com.
WASHINGTON  President Donald Trump has raged against the four Republicans who forced the House of Representatives to vote on the Epstein files, even calling Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) a traitor for her trouble.

But theres one Republican whos done more than any other to bring new and damaging Jeffrey Epstein material to light  Rep. James Comer (R-Ky.), chair of the House Oversight Committee.

Politics: Sen. Cory Booker Ties The Knot With Alexis Lewis In Two Separate Ceremonies

It was Comer who obtained the birthday book made for Epstein in 2003 that contained a creepy tribute apparently from Trump, plus the thousands of documents released this month, including the email from Epstein saying Trump knew about the girls.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The latest document dump came shortly before Congress passed legislation to force the release of the Justice Departments full Epstein files. Trumps approval rating has fallen to the lowest level of his second term, partly as a result of the Epstein fallout.

As Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) put it: James Comer has been doing an extraordinary job for the Democrats.

It could create a second round of Republican grumbling about Comer, a strong Trump ally who received some intraparty blame when House Republicans various efforts to investigate and impeach President Joe Biden mostly fell flat or blew up in their faces. Back then, Comer overpromised on what his evidence showed, especially a Ukrainian bribe that turned out to have been completely fabricated. But if Comers done anything wrong this time around, its that hes been overly willing to dig up the truth.

Politics: House Oversight Committee Subpoenas Bill Clinton, Justice Department For Epstein Files

Because I, as well as my Republican colleagues on the House Oversight Committee, we want to know what really happened, what went on, who was involved in these unspeakable crimes, Comer said last week in a speech on the House floor, referring to his decision to subpoena the Epstein estate. We want justice for the survivors. Thats why were doing this investigation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Comer has gone beyond the subpoena that a bipartisan vote in his committee over the summer forced him to send to the Justice Department. On his own initiative, he sent an entirely separate subpoena to the late ****** predators estate, which had the birthday book and a cache of emails.

Its hard to imagine a more embarrassing document than the 2003 birthday card to Epstein that bears Trumps signature, which reads we have certain things in common and may every day be another wonderful secret. Trump had denied writing the message  his attorneys even claimed in court it had been concocted by The Wall Street Journal  and Comers disclosure proved it was real.

Trumps allies hyped the Epstein files as the key to unraveling the sort of elite pedophile ring right-wing conspiracy theorists have raved about for years. As of this month, every Republican in Congress but one officially supports releasing the files. But Comer has been way ahead of them.

House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.) walks to talk to reporters about the investigation into Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell on Capitol Hill on Sept. 19, 2025. AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana

Republicans set high expectations for revelations from the Justice Departments investigatory files on Epstein, who killed himself in 2019 while facing federal *** trafficking charges.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In February, Comer set up an Oversight Committee Task Force on the Declassification of Federal Secrets, chaired by Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.), dedicated to revealing the governments goods on the JFK assassination, UFOs and the Epstein files.

Politics: 'Scott Jennings Does Not Deserve A Platform!': Ex-DC Cop Attacked On Jan. 6 Rips Trump Fan

That month, the Justice Department handed binders labeled The Epstein Files: Phase 1 to a group of right-wing influencers gathered at the White House. The stunt backfired; the binders contained no new information, and some MAGA commentators said the whole thing looked unprofessional. Luna called it a complete disappointment.

In May, Luna demanded the Justice Department make its Epstein documents public: We work alongside the DOJ  not for it. AG Bondi needs to stop stonewalling and communicate with us.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When the Trump administration announced in July that it wouldnt release any new information and that there was no Epstein client list, contrary to prior statements made by Trump, Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel, the backlash from MAGA-aligned media figures was intense. Democrats exploited the moment by pushing for a vote on subpoenaing the Justice Department during a subcommittee meeting that month. Comer dutifully sent the subpoena weeks later.

Republican leaders pointed to the Justice Departments cooperation with the subpoena as a reason not to vote on separate Epstein legislation, but their pushback only seemed to stiffen the resolve of Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ga.), Greene, and the two other Republicans who put their names on a discharge petition forcing the House to vote this month.

Politics: MAGA Pumps The Brakes On AI As Trump Goes All In

Privately, some Republicans are apparently unhappy with the role Comer played in the Epstein saga.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

No one has betrayed and fractured MAGA more than Chairman Comer and Rep. Luna, a senior House aide told HuffPost. Their Epstein investigation created virtually every major headache for House Republicans this Congress.

Comer declined to comment for this article. A spokesman for Luna did not respond to a request for comment.

The Oversight Committee has released 33,000 pages of records from its DOJ subpoena, though much was already public. Massie has said he doesnt trust the material coming through the committee, pointing to redactions in the first batch that protected people who werent victims of *** trafficking.

Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) speaks alongside Reps. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) and Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) during a news conference on the Epstein Files Transparency Act outside the U.S. Capitol on Nov. 18, 2025. Heather Diehl via Getty Images

After The Wall Street Journal reported on the existence of the Epstein birthday book in July, Reps. Robert Garcia (D-Calif.) and Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), members of the Oversight Committee, sent a letter asking Epsteins estate for a copy of the book. An attorney for the estate said the estate could only provide it in response to a subpoena.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In September, Comer fired off a subpoena not just for the book, but for a wide range of documents, emails and bank account statements. The committee soon obtained and uploaded to its website another 30,000 pages of documents. Crucially, the Justice Department has had no ability to filter the material.

Politics: Trump Crowns Himself 'THE AFFORDABILITY PRESIDENT' In Rant About Midterms

Rep. Pete Sessions (R-Texas), another Oversight Committee member, said Republicans didnt have much choice but to grab whatever the estate was holding. He called it an easy lift.

I think legitimately, we would have been criticized if we had knowledge and did not get it, Sessions told HuffPost. It became what I would say material to the case. It became material. And, you know, unfortunately or whatever happened, it turned into a treasure trove of opportunity for people.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Garcia, the committees top Democrat, offered grudging respect to Comer while taking partial credit for his Epstein moves.

I think when James Comer and Republicans are pushed to do the right thing, they will sometimes do the right thing. And I respect that, and I want to partner in those spaces, Garcia said. But when they choose to deny or deflect or slow down the process, were going to call that out.

The committee is still sending out new subpoenas, asking the Treasury Department to hand over any suspicious activity reports flagging Epsteins money transfers, and this month demanded Epsteins bank records from JPMorganChase and Deutsche Bank.

For Republicans, there is a bright side: The Epstein documents contain plenty of embarrassing references to high-profile Democrats.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

There was nothing new about the presidents former relationship with Epstein and certainly nothing scandalous, Comer said in his speech last week. But we did find two sitting Democrat members of Congress had communications with Epstein.

The new documents revealed Del. Stacey Plaskett (D-V.I.) had been texting with Epstein during a committee hearing in 2019, and that Democratic fundraisers had solicited campaign contributions from Epstein on behalf of House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.).

Trump, for his part, aggressively lobbied against the bill to release the Justice Departments Epstein files, only to switch his position last weekend when it was clear the bill would pass the House over his objections. Now that hes signed it into law, its up to the Justice Department to create a searchable Epstein database by mid-December.

The White House claims Trump has been on the right side of the Epstein matter all along.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

President Trump has been consistently calling for transparency related to the Epstein files  by releasing thousands of pages of documents, cooperating with the House Oversight Committees subpoena request, and President Trump recently calling for further investigations into Epsteins Democrat friends, the Trump Administration has done more for the victims than Democrats ever have, White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson said in an email.

Jackson noted Plasketts communications with Epstein and said reporters ought to ask former President Bill Clinton about his numerous flights on Epsteins private plane.

The only people who have behaved cynically are the Democrats and the media, Jackson said.

Related...

Read the original on HuffPost
It may seem like a small switch, but pivoting from a gas to an induction stove won't just make cooking easy  it will make the entire kitchen safer and healthier.

What's the research?

A study conducted by Manhattan-based nonprofit WE ACT for Environmental Justice looked at a sample of 20 households  half of which used gas, the other half of which used induction stoves  over the course of nearly a year.

The researchers monitored the homes over week-long periods, tracking air quality and collecting the levels of certain toxic gasses like nitrogen dioxide and methane.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Phys.org reported that the most striking conclusion was that average daily nitrogen dioxide concentrations were 56% lower in the homes with induction stoves compared to the control group of gas stoves.

In fact, during controlled cooking tests, the median background NO2 concentration was nearly 10 times higher in gas homes (from 18 parts per billion to 197) while barely increasing in induction homes.

The findings were published in the journal Energy Research & Social Science and shared by Science Direct.

Why are gas stoves so harmful?

While almost 40% of American households use gas stoves, per Phys.org, these findings are not the first to suggest migrating away from using them.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When it comes to health, limiting exposure to NO2 is particularly important for anybody prone to respiratory illness. Even short-term exposure to the gas can trigger respiratory disease flare ups, some of which can result in hospital stays and even premature mortality, per the EPA.

Long-term exposure, like you'd have in a home with a gas stove, is even worse, having been associated with the onset of asthma as well as premature death.

Gas stoves are just as harmful to the environment as they are to humans. Phys.org reported that residential gas use accounts for 15% of the United States' gas consumption, releasing alarmingly high methane levels into the atmosphere each year.

"A green energy transition should prioritize electric stoves, which both reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve the health of vulnerable populations," Phys.org quoted senior author Darby Jack, Ph.D.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Meanwhile, study co-author Annie Carforo, MUP and climate justice campaigns manager for WE ACT, noted some people are more affected by this issue than others and need support to move away from gas stoves.

"People of color and low-income individuals are more likely to live in smaller, older apartments that have poor ventilation, ineffective or broken range hoods and dated appliances that leak more gas," Carforo said. "It is crucial for environmental justice that they are not left behind in this transition."

What's being done to address this?

In places like New York City, where the gas stove rate is much higher than the national average, governments are looking to quickly move away from them.

In fact, New York passed a law last year that will ban gas-powered heaters, cooking stoves, and water boilers in all new buildings, Phys.org reported. Similarly, in 2022, California adopted a building code requiring new buildings to be "all-electric ready," with the aim of enabling a gas-free and healthier future for residents.



Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices  and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club.
Retired Iowa State University professor Paul Lasley repairs violins and donates them to the university's instrument drive for local schools. (Photo by Brooklyn Draisey/Iowa Capital Dispatch)

Paul Lasleys hobby of restoring old and broken violins and donating them to Iowa State Universitys instrument collection program didnt start with a violin of his own, or really any other stringed instrument  it started with a tin clarinet.

When the retired ISU sociology professor was growing up in Queen City, Mo., he wanted to join his elementary school band. Lasley said his family couldnt afford a new, black-painted wood clarinet, so he had to borrow an older, metal instrument from the school.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Now hes working to make sure students who hope to find belonging and opportunity through music like he did have better equipment than was available to him, through finding and fixing fiddles and giving them to an instrument drive run by Iowa State Centers Stephens Auditorium staff.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

Were enculturating the value of helping others, and thats what we really should be about , Lasley said. I was loaned a tin clarinet, and while I really would like to have had a better instrument, I had the opportunity.

Instrument drive puts music in the hands of area students

Lasley has donated 15 violins to the instrument drive so far, he said, and he has more hes currently repairing to donate. While he originally planned to be an anonymous gifter to the instrument cart that sits in the lobby of the auditorium ticket office, Lasley said his wife took a sneaky picture and posted it online.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The retired professors face would be recognizable to many on campus, as he worked at the university for 40 years. His creation of the Iowa Farm and Rural Life Poll provided a way to track agriculture and farm life, and how changes in these areas affect farmers and rural society, according to the polls website.

Lorna Carroll, outreach coordinator for Stephens Auditorium, and other staff got wind of Lasleys identity and reached out to him. While Lasley said his first thought after answering Carrolls call was Uh-oh, what might I have done, Carroll assured him they just wanted to connect with the generous donor.

What started as seasonal instrument drives in the winter and spring have turned into a year-round practice, Carroll said. Donations of working and non-working instruments  except pianos  may be dropped off at the collection cart when the ticket office is open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday.

Since the drives start in 2023, Carroll said 113 instruments have been donated, with Lasley having donated the most. The instruments go to area school bands and orchestras, where they are loaned to students.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its super expensive to buy an instrument, and even to rent one, Carroll said. Its out of reach for a lot of families, and so the school districts do what they can to provide what they can, repair what they can, but what a gift that (Lasley has) given.

Making fiddles sing again

Lasley said he only repairs beginner and intermediate-level fiddles, as high-level instruments should be taken to professional repair workers.

I am the equivalent of a shade tree mechanic with automobiles, Lasley said. Im not a luthier, Im a shade tree violin fixer upper.

(Photo by Brooklyn Draisey/Iowa Capital Dispatch)

Violins are found in shops, flea markets and on Facebook Marketplace, and even in pieces they can be useful. An electric violin Lasley said he was unable to fix hangs as an art piece on his office/workshop door and instruments both in need of repair and all fixed up are on the walls, a bucket of old bows in the corner and cases not fit for use set against the wall.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lasley buys new bows and cases for the instruments before theyre donated, he said, so students can have new materials that can take the beating often provided by young musicians.

Each violin has its own work that needs to be done, Lasley said, and no two violins are the same. They each have their own history, told through the dings and etchings on the wood that Lasley said he keeps if they have a particular meaning, like the DMPS, standing for Des Moines Public Schools, he found on a fiddle hes already donated.

Lasley said his hobby was born from woodworking, a lifelong hobby he spent more time on after retiring. There are only so many pieces of furniture friends and family can accept before there isnt any room for more, he said.

(Photo by Brooklyn Draisey/Iowa Capital Dispatch)

One violin hes yet to start on has come apart, with the top completely separate from the back and evidence of previous repairs that need to be fixed. Lasley said hell start the project by scratching off old glue, patching cracks and gluing the top plate back on. Once the front has been reattached, Lasley will insert a soundpost that, once restrung, will be held in place by 55 pounds of pressure.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Before he restrings it, however, Lasley said hell have to shape a bridge and attach it to the face of the violin to hold the strings.

You end up doing everything while eyeballing and measuring, and then I get frustrated. Thats when I come over here and practice, Lasley said, gesturing to another corner of his office where a music stand is set up, sheet music laid out.

Playing on

Lasley started playing violin when he was 69 years old. Now 73, the retired professor said he mainly learns by listening to recordings of his teacher playing over and over until hes got the tune in his head and can sing it out on the strings. He emphasized that while he  and his teacher  can both read sheet music, this is his preferred learning style.

Holding the violin owned by his great-grandfather, who died in 1922, Lasley wondered if the melodies he plays on it were made more than a century ago on the same instrument, 30 years before he was born.

Paul Lasley plays Oh Susanna on a violin he restored. (Video by Brooklyn Draisey/Iowa Capital Dispatch)

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lasley was lucky, he said, to have grown up with music constantly in the background  guitar from his father, upright bass from his mother and a reed pump organ he remembers playing at 4 years old with his grandmother, who had to push the pedals since his feet couldnt reach.

In addition to playing the clarinet, Lasley said he played the bass clarinet and saxophone in school and played upright bass in his own band for years.

As he continues to search for fiddles to make sing once again, with the goal of getting them in students hands, Lasley said he hopes they help to instill values of paying kindness and generosity forward.

Its about helping the next generation, he said.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
BERLIN, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Around 6,000 people were temporarily evacuated from their homes in the German city of Cologne on Thursday evening as authorities worked to defuse two unexploded WWII bombs.

The bombs were found during exploratory surveying work. A 500-meter safety perimeter was established, and roughly 220 personnel from the fire department, the public order office, and other agencies were deployed.

Roads had been closed since Thursday afternoon. Several hours passed between the start of the evacuation and the actual defusal due to the large number of people affected.

At 1:20 a.m. local time on Friday (0020 GMT), the city announced that both pieces of unexploded ordnance had been safely defused. All road closures were lifted, residents were allowed to return home, and the defused bombs were transported away for removal.

Before the defusal, a major railway line had been shut down, forcing long-distance, regional and freight trains to be temporarily rerouted. Train and tram services later resumed without restrictions. 
Cans of chickpeas at the Rhode Island Community Food Bank in Providence await being sent off to the organization's network of 137 affiliate food pantries in the Ocean State. (Photo by Alexander Castro/Rhode Island Current)

In any other year, the data that informs an annual report released every Thanksgiving by the Rhode Island Community Food Bank would tell the whole story about hunger in the Ocean State.

But 2025 has been unlike any other year for the Providence-based nonprofit  especially after the recent federal shutdown disrupted benefits for 42 million Americans enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), including 145,000 Rhode Islanders.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Which is why the release of the annual Status Report on Hunger in Rhode Island will have to wait until late January.

The recent federal government shutdown and SNAP delay has been our top priority this fall, Melissa Cherney, the food banks CEO, said in a statement to Rhode Island Current. We remain committed to putting together a comprehensive report and providing an in-depth look at who is food insecure in Rhode Island that takes into account how the government shutdown has impacted food security in our state.

First released in 2007, the annual report lists how many households across the state struggle to afford adequate meals, receive food assistance, along with policy recommendations on how to reduce hunger.

Last years six-page report focused on the need for Congress to expand federal programs like SNAP, which the food bank projected could help the 90,500 households enrolled at the time to easily afford three healthy meals per day. The report had also urged state leaders to reduce barriers for SNAP enrollment.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The food banks report typically relies on hunger data compiled by Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island and the Brown University School of Public Health as part of its annual RI Life Index survey. But that survey is conducted in the spring.

Food bank spokesperson Kate MacDonald said the data would not account for the rapid increase in food insecurity across Rhode Island observed this fall during the 43-federal government shutdown.

Food pantries in the state served around 100,000 people in the month of October. Pantries last year served roughly 84,400 individuals per month, which at the time was the highest total tracked by the Rhode Island Community Food Bank.

We want to be able to capture that in our status report, MacDonald said in an interview. The data were working with has to represent whats going on now.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Food bank staff had to shift their focus away from completing the report during the shutdown i to ensuring there was enough food to distribute across its 137 affiliated pantries and other agencies, MacDonald added.

SNAP payments have since resumed now that the longest federal shutdown in history has ended, but the fallout continues, MacDonald said.

Families who were impacted might be seeing these effects for a little while, she said. Families have made choices in what bills to pay and what not to pay.

Then theres the massive changes to SNAP under President Trump and Republicans signature tax legislation, known as the one big, beautiful bill. Under the new law, parents and older Americans will be required to meet stricter work requirements, and states eventually will have to share in the cost of SNAP benefits.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The law also cuts off access completely for refugees and other immigrants starting Feb. 1, 2026.

Its going to take some time for what that all means for peoples monthly benefits, MacDonald said.

The food banks full 2025 report will be released Jan. 27 to coincide with Food Insecurity Awareness Day, when its leaders will gather at the State House and hold a virtual town hall to discuss the latest findings.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
Hoosiers who plan to drive on Black Friday, Nov. 28, should first check if the latest bout of winter-like weather has impacted road conditions before they get behind the wheel.

Earlier, the National Weather Service in Indianapolis warned freezing conditions could lead to snow Friday and Saturday across Central Indiana, which could impact commutes after Thanksgiving or during Black Friday shopping into the weekend.

Here's how drivers can see what Indiana county, or counties have issued a travel advisories, and check current road conditions.

What Indiana counties have travel advisories today? How to check road conditions on Indiana's highways

Rohin Singh scrapes snow from his vehicle Monday, Nov. 10, 2025, in Avon, Indiana.

The Indiana Department of Homeland Security keeps tabs on road conditions thanks to its online travel advisory map for every county in the state.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If your county is shaded green, routine travel is expected to proceed normally. Orange means local travel conditions are under a "watch," meaning road conditions are a threat to public safety and travel should be limited. A county shaded in red means travel might be restricted altogether.

How to check Marion County road conditions on social media

The Indianapolis Department of Public Works also shares updates about Marion County road conditions on their X page.

Live Indianapolis, Indiana weather radar

You can also check the NWS Indianapolis page on X, formerly Twitter, for updates about the weather.

More weather: High winds and snow flurries could affect Thanksgiving commutes

What does a travel advisory mean?

A travel advisory is the lowest level of local travel advisory.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Routine travel or activities may be restricted in areas because of a hazardous situation, and individuals should use caution or avoid those areas," according IN.gov.

A travel watch means that conditions are threatening to the public so only essential travel is recommended. A travel warning means that unless you are in emergency management, you are recommended to be off the roads.

Is there snow on the ground? How to see if your Indianapolis street has been plowed

Driving in Indianapolis? Check out this live traffic map, per Waze

Drivers can use a free live traffic map from Waze to navigate Indianapolis. The navigation app from Waze provides traffic updates, road condition information and offers directions.

Safe driving tips for snow and ice

Staying safe on Indiana's roads during a winter storm can depend largely on how well you're prepared. The Indiana Department of Transportation offers these tips:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Knowledge : Before leaving home, find out about the driving conditions. Safe drivers know the weather, and their limits. If the weather is bad remember, "Ice and Snow, Take it Slow," or just dont go.

Clear : Remove any snow on your vehicles windows, lights, brake lights and signals. Make sure you can see and be seen.

Inspect : Check your vehicles tires, wiper blades, fluids, lights, belts and hoses. A breakdown is bad on a good day and dangerous on a bad-weather day.

Time : Leave plenty of time to reach your destination safely. Its not worth putting yourself and others in a dangerous situation just to be on time.

Kit: Keep a basic winter survival kit in your vehicle, including a flashlight, batteries, blanket, snacks, water, gloves, boots, and a first-aid kit. Load your car with winter travel gear, including tire chains, ice scraper/snowbrush, jumper cables, and road flares.

More: 'There's no substitute for common sense.' State officials want Hoosiers winter prepared

Katie Wiseman is a trending news reporter for IndyStar and Midwest Connect. Contact her at klwiseman@gannett.com. Follow her on Bluesky @katiewiseman

John Tufts covers trending news for IndyStar and Midwest Connect. Send him a news tip at JTufts@Gannett.com. Find him on BlueSky at JohnWritesStuff.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Which Indiana counties have travel advisories today? Check this map
By Gram Slattery and Humeyra Pamuk

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio plans to skip a meeting of NATO foreign ministers in Brussels next week, two U.S. officials said, in a highly unusual absence of the top U.S. diplomat from a key transatlantic gathering.

Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau will represent Washington instead, said one of the officials, who requested anonymity to discuss matters that have not yet been made public.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It was unclear why Rubio planned to skip the December 3 meeting, and his plans could change. But his likely no-show comes when U.S. and Ukrainian officials have been scrambling to narrow gaps over President Donald Trump's plan to end Russia's invasion of Ukraine, with some European diplomats complaining they are being cut out of the process.

There are usually two formal NATO meetings of foreign ministers per year, and it is exceedingly rare for a U.S. secretary of state to be absent. In 2017, during Trump's first term, then-Secretary of State Rex Tillerson initially planned to skip an April meeting, though the gathering was then rescheduled to accommodate his schedule.

RUBIO MEETS WITH ALLIES REGULARLY: STATE DEPARTMENT

A State Department spokesperson declined to comment on Rubio's potential absence, but said the NATO alliance had been "completely revitalized" during the Trump administration and noted that Rubio met with several European officials recently in Switzerland.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Secretary Rubio also meets with and talks to NATO allies regularly, including last weekend in Geneva," the spokesperson said.

A senior State Department official said Rubio attends enough gatherings.

"Secretary Rubio has already attended dozens of meetings with NATO allies, and it would be completely impractical to expect him at every meeting," the official said.

A NATO official deferred to the United States regarding Rubio's attendance, but said it was not unusual for some foreign ministers to skip the event.

Ukrainian and European officials have been wary of being coerced into accepting a deal that is too favorable to Russian interests, concerns that have intensified considerably after a draft 28-point plan to end the war was leaked to the media on November 18.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rubio's absence risks deepening questions over Washington's commitment to European security, which has already taken a hit in recent years.

Washington is the de facto leader of NATO but Trump has repeatedly raised doubts about the alliance's necessity and has suggested at times that he could pull out of the decades-old alliance.

Landau, the No. 2 U.S. diplomat who will attend on Rubio's behalf, questioned the need for NATO in a June post on X, which he later deleted.

Trump reaffirmed his faith in the grouping during a NATO leaders' summit in June that was widely viewed as a success, but he has also consistently pressured member states to boost their defense spending, saying Washington was no longer going to "bail them out."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The likely absence comes at a particularly fraught moment for Ukraine. In addition to concerns over peace negotiations, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, quit on Friday, hours after anti-corruption agents searched his home.

(Reporting by Gram Slattery; Editing by Chris Reese, Diane Craft, Rod Nickel)
Russia's telecommunications watchdog Roskomnadzor has threatened to completely block WhatsApp in the country following previous restrictions on the messaging service.

If WhatsApp does not meet the requirements of Russian legislation, it will be blocked, the state news agency TASS quoted Roskomnadzor as saying in a statement on Friday.

In the past, the authority has argued that criminals use WhatsApp for extortion, fraud and involving Russian citizens in acts of sabotage.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Calls via WhatsApp and Telegram have been restricted in Russia for some time, and the encrypted service Signal and the messenger Viber were already blocked in 2024.

Foreign messaging services are to be replaced by the state-preferred app Max, which critics fear will give the authorities access to data.

Moscow has been increasingly tightening control and censorship on the internet, especially since the start of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine more than three and a half years ago.

In July, the Russian parliament decided that searching for information classified as "extremist" by the authorities would also be punishable by a fine of up to 5,000 roubles ($64).

Internet resources that criticize the ruling establishment, such as the Anti-Corruption Fund of Kremlin opponent Alexei Navalny, who died in custody in February 2024, are particularly likely to be branded as "extremist."
KHERSON, Ukraine (AP)  When Olena Horlova leaves home or drives through town outside the southern Ukrainian city of Kherson, she fears that she's a target. She believes that Russian drones could be waiting on a rooftop, along the road or aiming for her car.

To protect herself and her two daughters, the girls stay indoors, and she stays alert  sometimes returning home at night along dark roads without headlights so as not to be seen.

After living through the occupation, refusing to cooperate with Russian forces and hiding from them, Horlova, like so many other residents, found that even after her town was liberated in 2022, the ordeal didn't end.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Kherson was among the first places where Russian forces began using short-range, first-person view, or FPV, drones against civilians. The drones are equipped with livestreaming cameras that let operators see and select their targets in real time. The tactic later spread more than 300 kilometers (185 miles) along the right bank of the Dnipro River, across the Dnipropetrovsk, Kherson and Mykolaiv regions.

The United Nations' Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine says the attacks leave little doubt about their intent. In an October report, the commission said that the attacks have repeatedly killed and wounded civilians, destroyed homes and forced thousands to flee, concluding that they amount to the crimes against humanity of murder and forcible transfer.

We live with the hope that one day this will finally end, Horlova said, her voice trembling. What matters for us is a cease-fire, or for the front line to be pushed further away. Then it would be easier for us.

Hunting those who survived

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Horlova lives in Komyshany, a village just outside Kherson and only 4 kilometers (2 miles) from the Dnipro River, where the level of intense attacks has remained the same, despite Ukrainian forces retaking the city from Russian occupation in November 2022  about nine months after Russia launched its full-scale invasion on Feb. 24 of that year.

But the war didn't end there. Instead, it shifted into a phase in which the area has effectively become what locals and the military term a human safari, describing it as a testing ground where people are often the target of drone attacks.

Horlova says that FPVs often land on rooftops when their batteries run low and then wait out.

When people, cars or even a cyclist appear, the drone suddenly lifts off and drops the explosive, she said. Its gotten to the point where they even drop them on animals  cows, goats.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She believes that civilians are hunted as revenge for the celebrations that broke out when Kherson was liberated.

The report from the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine says the attacks have spread terror among civilians and violated their right to life and other fundamental human rights. Investigators found that Russian units on the occupied left bank of the Dnipro carried out the strikes and identified specific drone units, operators and commanders involved. They also noted that Russian Telegram channels routinely share videos of the attacks, often with mocking captions and threats of more.

The U.N. commission said that it examined Russian claims that Ukrainian forces had launched drone attacks on civilians in occupied areas, unable to conclude its investigation because it lacked access to the territory, couldn't ensure witness safety and didn't receive answers from Russian authorities.

Invisible dome

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Interceptions obtained by The Associated Press from the 310th Separate Marine Electronic Warfare Battalion show Russian FPV drones that appear to be hunting for vehicles. The videos capture drones flying low over roads and locking onto moving or parked cars  often pickups, supply vehicles, sedans and even clearly marked ambulances  before diving for a strike.

The commander of the 310th Battalion, which protects the skies over 470 kilometers (nearly 300 miles) of southern Ukraine, including Kherson, says at least 300 drones fly toward the city every day. In October alone, the number of drones that flew over Kherson was 9,000.

This area is like a training ground, said the battalions commander, Dmytro Liashok, a 16-year military veteran and one of Ukraines early pioneers in electronic warfare. They bring new Russian crews here to gain experience before sending them elsewhere. The AP couldn't independently verify the claim.

Despite the sheer volume of drones  a figure that excludes other types of weapons like artillery and glide bombs  his forces manage to neutralize more than 90%, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the U.N. human rights office, short-range drone attacks have become the leading cause of civilian casualties near the front line. Local authorities say that since July 2024, more than 200 civilians have been killed and more than 2,000 wounded in three southern regions, with most victims being men. Nearly 3,000 homes have been damaged or destroyed.

During a surprise visit to Kherson in November, Angelina Jolie described the constant overhead threat as a heavy presence.

There was a moment when we had to pause and wait while a drone flew overhead, she wrote on Instagram. I was in protective gear, and for me it was just a couple of days. The families here live with this every single day.

Human hunting

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

At one of Khersons main hospitals treating drone victims, 70-year-old Nataliia Naumova is recovering after a strike by a Shahed drone, which carries a heavier explosive than FPV drones, left her with a blast injury to her left leg on Oct. 20.

She says the strike hit during the night as she waited at a school in the village of Inzhenerne, where she had been temporarily sheltered, for an evacuation bus that was due to arrive the next morning.

There were so many drones flying over us, she said, adding that she rarely left home even after its windows were shattered and boarded up. People there survive, not live. I never thought such a tragedy would happen to me.

Dr. Yevhen Haran, the hospitals deputy medical chief, says the injuries from drone strikes range from amputations to fatal wounds.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its simply hunting for people. Theres no other name for it, he said.

He says patients wounded in Russian attacks, including drone strikes, arrive at the hospital every day. Last month alone, it treated 85 inpatients and 105 outpatients with blast injuries, all from shelling and drone strikes. It's also the only hospital in the area equipped to handle the most serious cases.

Haran himself came under FPV drone fire on Aug. 26 while driving from nearby Mykolaiv with his wife. Rescuers stopped their car on the highway, warning that a drone was overhead.

I pulled in behind them. The drone circled and, on the next pass, flew straight into their vehicle  the drivers door, he recalled. Shrapnel tore through the front car, while his, parked behind, shielded him.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He reached the hospital with a hypertensive crisis and was later treated for a concussion. Sometimes I still lose words and feel unsteady, he said. It all happened in less than 10 minutes.

For people in Kherson, the experience of occupation, and the moment the city was freed, still shapes how they endure the constant drone attacks.

We held out until liberation  well hold out until peace as well, he said.

___

Associated Press reporters Yehor Konovalov and Volodymyr Yurchuk in Kyiv, Ukraine, contributed to this report.
Sally Rooney, the celebrated Irish author, is back in the news - this time for telling the UK High Court that she is almost certain that she would not be able to publish any new books in the UK as long as Palestine Action was banned under current terrorism laws.

The author, who has supported Palestine Action and other similar protest groups for the last few years also said that she may have to remove her current books from the UK due to the ban.

Back in July, Palestine Action was banned, following the group taking responsibility for breaking into RAF Brize Norton and spraying red paint over two military transport jets- which caused damage reportedly worth about 7 million (approx. 8 million).

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This decision is currently being challenged by Palestine Actions co-founder Huda Ammori, who claims that it hinders the right to protest. Rooney has also voiced support for the reversal of the ban.

In August, Rooney said that she would continue using her public platform and royalties, including those gained from the BBC adaptations of "Normal People" and "Conversations With Friends", to support Palestine Action, highlighting: If this makes me a supporter of terror under UK law, so be it.

However, this could also mean that her British publisher Faber & Faber Limited and the BBC may not be able to pay her royalties anymore, under UK terrorism laws, as they could be accused of funding terrorism.

Related

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rooney has recently cancelled a trip to the UK as well, due to fear of arrest because of her political beliefs. She also highlighted that the ban threatened both her publishers and her rights as an author, since if royalties cannot be paid, she would be forced to take her books off UK shelves, or voluntarily donate them.

As one of the most influential and best-selling authors in the UK in recent years, this could be a huge blow for the entire sector, especially as Rooney may also not be able to speak or participate in any UK events as long as the ban is in action.

In witness statements to the High Court, reported by the BBC, Rooney maintains that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza and that Palestine Actions UK protests stem from a long and proud tradition of civil disobedience.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I myself have publicly advocated the use of direct action, including property sabotage, in the cause of climate justice," she said. "It stands to reason that I should support the same range of tactics in the effort to prevent genocide."

Speaking on behalf of the home secretary, as reported by The Guardian, Sir James Eadie KC noted that the UK parliament could choose how to define terrorism.

Parliament has decided what terrorism is, which includes serious damage to property, whether or not alongside it there is violence against people, he said.

Hundreds of people have already been arrested in the UK since the ban, including poets like Alice Oswald, 58, who is also a former Oxford professor of poetry and taught online classes to young people in Gaza.
A self-proclaimed Satanist who claimed he made a pact with a "red-horned devil" has been jailed for 23 months after being found guilty of having extreme right-wing material on his phone.

Declan Candiani, 26, was stopped by counter-terrorism police at Stansted Airport as he attempted to go on holiday on 13 August 2024.

On seeing the contents of his phone, officers arrested him and searched the home he shares with his mother in Streatham, south London.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

An examination of Candiani's devices revealed a cache of extreme right-wing material including "manifestos" of mass killers and documents advocating the use of serious violence to achieve "white supremacy", the court heard.

'Mild personality disorder'

The former Brit school of Performing Arts student was found guilty of two charges of collection of information likely to be useful for terrorism and acquitted of two similar offences by a jury at the Old Bailey in October.

During his trial, Candiani denied wrongdoing and claimed he was mainly interested in Satanism and the occult.

In an interview with police, he claimed he had downloaded the material after becoming interested in the Satanist group "Order of Nine Angles", which has been linked with right-wing extremism.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Candiani was assessed by psychiatrists who found he had a "mild personality disorder" and was fit to stand trial.

Giving evidence in court, he described being visited by the devil in his bedroom, who was "a big red man with horns".

Jurors were told that Candiani's mental health suffered after his mother was diagnosed with cancer.

Sentencing Candiani, Judge Nigel Lickley KC said he had read a letter that Candiani had written to him saying that he would not "go down these routes again".

He also noted that his mother was terminally ill and receiving palliative care.

Listen to the best of BBC Radio London on Sounds and follow BBC London on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to hello.bbclondon@bbc.co.uk

More on this story

Related internet links
The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) has identified seven new cases of measles in Spartanburg County, according to a Nov. 28 update.

While several recent cases of infection came from unknown sources, DPH investigators have information on the origin of the new cases.

Six of the cases came from within households where a person was already infected, and one occurred in a school. All newly infected people were already under quarantine, according to DPH officials.

South Carolina Department of Public Health continues to monitor an outbreak of measles in Spartanburg County.

Officials warn, however, that there was a public exposure -- at the Spartanburg Costco store, located at 211 W. Blackstock Road, on Nov. 18 between 9:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They urge anyone who might have been in the store during those hours -- specifically in the tire center -- and has not been vaccinated against measles or become immune through prior infection to monitor for symptoms.

A person infected with measles will usually experience symptoms between seven and 12 days following exposure. Early symptoms include a cough, runny nose, and mild-to-moderate fever. After that, the infected person is likely to experience high fever and a red, splotchy rash.

DPH officials urge those who believe they might have measles to contact their health care provider right away -- before visiting a physician's office or other clinic.

"Notifying a health care provider of a potential exposure before seeking care is very important," they said in a prepared statement. "This allows prior arrangements to be made in clinical settings to prevent additional exposures of staff and other visitors, as some clinical sites have also been settings of public exposures."

The South Carolina Department of Public Health has released this information sheet in an effort to raise awareness about a measles outbreak centered in Spartanburg County.

A DPH spokesperson said he did not know which school was the site of the recent infection. DPH will have an additional update early next week, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The schools most recently identified by DPH as locations where the measles virus has spread are Lyman Elementary School and Boiling Springs Middle School.

Currently, 56 individuals from Lyman Elementary, 52 from Boiling Springs Middle, and one from D.R. Hill Middle School are under quarantine. If they avoid infection, the students will be allowed back in school on Monday, Dec. 1.

This article originally appeared on Greenville News: 7 new measles cases in Spartanburg outbreak, public exposure at Costco
The daughter of former South African President Jacob Zuma has resigned as an MP following allegations that she tricked 17 men to fight for Russia as mercenaries in Ukraine.

Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, who became a member of parliament for the main opposition party uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) last year, has said in an affidavit that she thought the men were going to Russia for "lawful" training.

MK says it was her decision to resign as she wants to focus her efforts on ensuring the return of those trapped in Ukraine's war-torn Donbas region.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The brother of one of the men, who has been sending desperate voices notes about his situation, has told the BBC the family wants accountability and his safe return.

"Things you see in the movies, we're seeing it live," the 40-year-old said in one of the messages shared with the BBC by his family about the horrors they were being subjected to in Ukraine.

The BBC is withholding his identity for his safety, and has called him Sipho and his brother - who is in South Africa, trying to help secure his return - Xolani.

"He's living in fear because he doesn't know what the future holds or what will happen to him when night approaches because they are always in a war zone," says Xolani, adding that the resignation of Zuma-Sambudla, whose father now leads MK, means nothing to the family.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"She's just trying to save the reputation of her father's political party The families want accountability and the return of the men who were tricked into fighting for Russia."

The BBC has heard voice notes Sipho sent in which he says he was recruited by two people - one of them being Zuma-Sambudla.

"They [the alleged recruiters] even bought us flight tickets to get here [Russia]," Sipho says in one of the voice notes. Zuma-Sambudla has denied intentionally misleading anyone and says she is "profoundly shocked", adding that she herself is a victim of deception and manipulation.

Xolani says that his brother left South Africa on 8 July, thinking he was going to be trained as a bodyguard for MK.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The party has distanced itself from the controversy.

"The national officials have accepted comrade Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla's decision to resign and support her efforts to ensure that these young South Africans are brought back safely to their families," MK chairperson Nkosinathi Nhleko said at a press conference on Friday.

Formed in 2023, MK is named after the now-defunct military wing of the governing African National Congress (ANC) when it was fighting the racist system of apartheid in South Africa.

Ex-President Zuma was a long-standing member of the ANC, before breaking away to form MK to contest last year's parliamentary elections after a massive fall-out with his successor, Cyril Ramaphosa.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The sister of another South African trapped in Donbas has told the BBC that her brother was recruited to receive "counter-intelligence" and "bodyguard" training for MK - an offer he took up because he was unemployed.

He did not expect to be in the battlefield under the command of Russian men.

"They are treated as slaves, told what to do, and if they don't co-operate they are threatened," she tells the BBC.

South Africa's ex-President Jacob Zuma has tried to cultivate a revolutionary image for his party [Reuters]

Xolani adds that when the group - including his brother - arrived in Russia, they were given contracts to sign but "unfortunately" they were written in Russian which they did not understand.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to Xolani, the group then appealed to Zuma-Sambudla and the other alleged recruiter, whom he named, for help.

The duo then travelled to Russia, which Xolani says convinced the group to sign the contract as they "trusted them", he says.

In a voice note to the family that the BBC has heard, Sipho says that he, along with the rest of the group, were taken to Ukraine in early August. They were then separated, and he was among those who ended up in Donetsk in Donbas.

"[We're] close to the front line, maybe about 10km [six miles] away," Sipho says in the voice note.

In a video screen recording shared with the BBC, from the WhatsApp group used by some of them, the men express their distress about their movements in the war zone.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In the group, one of them writes: "We were told that we are going to a safe place but we went even more deeper in the bad place. And when we arrived here, they [sic] were 3 drone attacks."

Another says: "If anything happens guys until next time."

At some point, a contact is added to the WhatsApp group under the name "Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla".

This person tries to allay the fears of the men as she appeals to them to "hang in there, we are doing everything we can".

The BBC reached out to this number, but it went unanswered. We then sent a WhatsApp message to the number, which had an image of Zuma-Sambudla in the profile picture.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The former MP filed an affidavit with police after her half-sister, Nkosazana Zuma-Mncube, accused her of tricking South Africans to join the war.

On Tuesday, South Africa's elite police unit, the Hawks, confirmed that both women had registered cases with the police.

The Hawks did not give any details, but said in a statement that "both matters are being investigated jointly to determine whether any criminality, including possible human trafficking, illegal recruitment, exploitation or fraud" had taken place.

[BBC]

The BBC has seen a copy of Zuma-Sambudla's affidavit, which is unsigned but was widely reported in local media.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I was not a recruiter, agent, operator or facilitator of any unlawful activity," she says.

The BBC has also seen a statement Zuma-Mncube gave police, alleging that her half-sister - along with two others, whom she named - lured 17 South Africans to Russia "under false pretences" and were "handed to a Russian mercenary group to fight in the Ukraine war without their knowledge or consent".

"Among these 17 men, who are requesting the South African government for assistance, are eight of my family members," Zuma-Mncube says in the statement.

In her affidavit, Zuma-Sambudla reveals that she herself had received non-combat training in Russia, and it was arranged by a man whom, she says, she did not know until he contacted her.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When he suggested recruiting more people to take part in what she believed would be a similar programme, she "shared [this] information innocently" with others, including family members, she says in the affidavit.

"I would not, under any circumstances, knowingly expose my own family or any other person to harm," the MP adds in the affidavit.

The discovery that people had been tricked into joining the war had "caused me profound shock and distress", she says.

"I am myself a victim of deception, misrepresentation, and manipulation," Zuma-Sambudla adds in the affidavit.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Earlier this month, the South African government confirmed it had received distress calls from 17 of its citizens trapped in Donbas after being lured to join mercenary forces on the promise of lucrative contracts.

One of the voice notes the BBC heard says that 24 South Africans had originally been duped into going to Ukraine, but three of them were taken back to Russia as they were deemed to be medically unfit.

Another voice note says one of the South Africans who was forced to stay in Ukraine was wounded, possibly by shrapnel and his whereabouts are unknown.

A report by financial news agency Bloomberg said some men had also been recruited from neighbouring Botswana.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

South Africa's government has remained tight-lipped on the situation since its statement earlier this month. It had promised to work through "diplomatic channels" to bring them back home, but this has not yet happened.

With his brother still trapped in a war zone, Xolani speaks of his family's anguish.

"We can go five days without hearing from him because he's off doing military stuff. The family is concerned about his life," he says.

In the meantime in voice-note exchanges with his family, Sipho keeps repeating the appeal: "It's tough here... we all [just] want to come home."

You may also be interested in:

[Getty Images/BBC]

Go to BBCAfrica.com for more news from the African continent.

Follow us on Twitter @BBCAfrica, on Facebook at BBC Africa or on Instagram at bbcafrica

BBC Africa podcasts
This article was originally published in The Conversation.

Deciding where to send your child to kindergarten has become one of the most high-stakes moments in many American families lives.

A few factors have made selecting an elementary school particularly challenging in recent years. For one, there are simply more schools for parents to pick from over the past few decades, ranging from traditional public and private to a growing number of magnet and charter programs. There are also new policies in some places, such as New York City, that allow parents to select not just their closest neighborhood public school but schools across and outside of the districts where they live.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

As a scholar of sociology and education, I have seen how the expanding range of school options  sometimes called school choice  has spread nationwide and is particularly a prominent factor in New York City.

I spoke with a diverse range of more than 100 New York City parents across income levels and racial and ethnic backgrounds from 2014 to 2019 as part of research for my 2025 book, Kindergarten Panic: Parental Anxiety and School Choice Inequality.

All of these parents felt pressure trying to select a school for their elementary school-age children, and school choice options post-COVID-19 have only increased.

Some parents experience this pressure a bit more acutely than others.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Women often see their choice of school as a reflection of whether they are good moms, my interviews show. Parents of color feel pressure to find a racially inclusive school. Other parents worry about finding niche schools that offer dual-language programs, for example, or other specialties.

Navigating schools in New York City

Every year, about 65,000 New York City kindergartners are matched to more than 700 public schools.

New York City kindergartners typically attend their nearest public school in the neighborhood and get a priority place at this school. This school is often called someones zoned school.

Even so, a spot at your local school isnt guaranteed  students get priority if they apply on time.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

While most kindergartners still attend their zoned schools, their attendance rate is decreasing. While 72% of kindergartners in the city attended their zoned school in the 2007-08 school year, 60% did so in the 2016-17 school year.

One reason is that since 2003, New York City parents have been able to apply to out-of-zone schools when seats were available. And in 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic began, all public school applications moved entirely online. This shift allowed parents to easily rank 12 different school options they liked, in and outside of their zones.

Still, New York City public schools remain one of the most segregated in the country, divided by race and class.

Pressure to be a good mom

Many of the mothers I interviewed from 2015 through 2019 said that getting their child into what they considered a good school reflected good mothering.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mothers took the primary responsibility for their school search, whether they had partners or not, and regardless of their social class, as well as racial and ethnic background.

In 2017, I spoke with Janet, a white, married mother who at the time was 41 years old and had an infant and a 3-year-old. Janet worked as a web designer and lived in Queens. She explained that she started a group in 2016 to connect with other mothers, in part to discuss schools.

Though Janets children were a few years away from kindergarten, she believed that she had started her research for public schools too late. She spent multiple hours each week looking up information during her limited spare time. She learned that other moms were talking to other parents, researching test results, analyzing school reviews and visiting schools in person.

Janet said she wished she had started looking for schools when her son was was 1 or 2 years old, like other mothers she knew. She expressed fear that she was failing as a mother. Eventually, Janet enrolled her son in a nonzoned public school in another Queens neighborhood.

Pressure to find an inclusive school

Regardless of their incomes, Black, Latino and immigrant families I interviewed also felt pressure to evaluate whether the public schools they considered were racially and ethnically inclusive.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Parents worried that racially insensitive policies related to bullying, curriculum and discipline would negatively affect their children.

In 2015, I spoke with Fumi, a Black, immigrant mother of two young children. At the time, Fumi was 37 years old and living in Washington Heights in north Manhattan. She described her uncertain search for a public school.

Fumi thought that New York Citys gifted and talented programs at public schools might be a better option academically than other public schools that dont offer an advanced track for some students. But the gifted and talented programs often lacked racial diversity, and Fumi did not want her son to be the only Black student in his class.

Still, Fumi had her son tested for the 2015 gifted and talented exam and enrolled him in one of these programs for kindergarten.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Once Fumis son began attending the gifted and talented school, Fumi worried that the constant bullying he experienced was racially motivated.

Though Fumi remained uneasy about the bullying and lack of diversity, she decided to keep him at the school because of the schools strong academic quality.

Pressure to find a niche school

Many of the parents I interviewed who earned more than US$50,000 a year wanted to find specialty schools that offered advanced courses, dual-language programs and progressive-oriented curriculum.

Parents like Renata, a 44-year-old Asian mother of four, and Stella, a 39-year-old Black mother of one, sent their kids to out-of-neighborhood public schools.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In 2016, Renata described visiting multiple schools and researching options so she could potentially enroll her four children in different schools that met each of their particular needs.

Stella, meanwhile, searched for schools that would de-emphasize testing, nurture her sons creativity and provide flexible learning options.

In contrast, the working-class parents I interviewed who made less than $50,000 annually often sought schools that mirrored their own school experiences.

Few working-class parents I spoke with selected out-of-neighborhood and high academically performing schools.

New York City data points to similar results  low-income families are less likely than people earning more than them to attend schools outside of their neighborhoods.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For instance, Black working-class parents like 47-year-old Risha, a mother of four, and 53-year-old Jeffery, a father of three, who attended New York City neighborhood public schools themselves as children told me in 2016 that they decided to send their children to local public schools.

Based on state performance indicators, students at these particular schools performed lower on standard assessments than schools on average.

Cracks in the system

The parents I spoke with all live in New York City, which has a uniquely complicated education system. Yet the pressures they face are reflective of the evolving public school choice landscape for parents across the country.

Parents nationwide are searching for schools with vastly different resources and concerns about their childrens future well-being and success.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When parents panic about kindergarten, they reveal cracks in the foundation of American schooling. In my view, parental anxiety about kindergarten is a response to an unequal, high-stakes education system.

Bailey A. Brown, Assistant Professor of Sociology, Spelman College

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
Yu Zemin speaks during the Connectivity Awards gala ceremony in Budapest, Hungary, Nov. 27, 2025. Chinese literary translator and writer Yu Zemin, who has lived in Hungary for more than three decades, received the Geza Szocs Cultural Connectivity Award on Thursday evening at a gala ceremony hosted by the Friends of Connectivity Foundation in Budapest. (Photo by David Balogh/Xinhua)

BUDAPEST, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- Chinese literary translator and writer Yu Zemin, who has lived in Hungary for more than three decades, received the Geza Szocs Cultural Connectivity Award on Thursday evening at a gala ceremony hosted by the Friends of Connectivity Foundation in Budapest.

Yu, known for translating works by Hungary's two Nobel Prize-winning authors as well as the poetry of Geza Szocs, said the award was a recognition of cultural bridges built between China and Hungary.

"I consider Hungary my second home," Yu said in his acceptance remarks. He thanked Hungarian literature for allowing him to serve as "a voice of Hungarian literature in China," and paid tribute to Szocs, whom he met in the 1990s.

"This award encourages me to continue translating Hungarian works, and ensures that we always remember this remarkable man," he added.

The ceremony marked the first edition of the Connectivity Awards established by the Friends of Connectivity Foundation, which was founded in 2025 to promote mutually beneficial East-West cooperation across diplomacy, culture, and economic ties. Awards were presented in four categories: diplomacy, international connectivity, cultural connectivity, and competitiveness.

Speaking at the event, Minister for European Union Affairs Janos Boka said Hungary was committed to strengthening connectivity as a strategy for ensuring long-term competitiveness.

He noted that Hungary's open, export-driven economy depends on foreign investment and advanced technological cooperation.

"We seek partners, allies, friends and points of collaboration," Boka said, adding that Hungary believes in cooperation among sovereign nations based on mutual respect.

Boka said Europe's competitiveness had declined in recent decades and called for a "pragmatic, mutually beneficial relationship" with international partners.

Deputy Minister for EU Affairs Barna Pal Zsigmond, who presented the cultural award, highlighted the geopolitical relevance of dialogue and cooperation.

He said the EU faced significant challenges in a rapidly changing world and stressed the need for diplomacy, economic ties and cultural exchanges that support peace, stability and competitiveness.

Zsigmond praised the legacy of Geza Szocs, calling him a key figure in building historical and cultural connections between Hungary and Eastern countries.

Other awardees included former Hungarian Ambassador to France Gyorgy Karolyi in the diplomacy category, Cambodian lawmaker Suos Yara for international connectivity, and Tata Consultancy Services Hungary in the competitiveness category.

The gala also featured performances by Hungarian artists and brought together officials, diplomats, and cultural figures. 

Yu Zemin attends the Connectivity Awards gala ceremony in Budapest, Hungary, Nov. 27, 2025. Chinese literary translator and writer Yu Zemin, who has lived in Hungary for more than three decades, received the Geza Szocs Cultural Connectivity Award on Thursday evening at a gala ceremony hosted by the Friends of Connectivity Foundation in Budapest. (Photo by David Balogh/Xinhua)

Yu Zemin attends the Connectivity Awards gala ceremony in Budapest, Hungary, Nov. 27, 2025. Chinese literary translator and writer Yu Zemin, who has lived in Hungary for more than three decades, received the Geza Szocs Cultural Connectivity Award on Thursday evening at a gala ceremony hosted by the Friends of Connectivity Foundation in Budapest. (Photo by David Balogh/Xinhua)

Minister for European Union Affairs Janos Boka speaks during the Connectivity Awards gala ceremony in Budapest, Hungary, Nov. 27, 2025. Chinese literary translator and writer Yu Zemin, who has lived in Hungary for more than three decades, received the Geza Szocs Cultural Connectivity Award on Thursday evening at a gala ceremony hosted by the Friends of Connectivity Foundation in Budapest. (Photo by David Balogh/Xinhua)
A 2016 expansion of the Panama Canal helped bigger ships move through the waterway. But it created an unintended side effect: saltwater fish from both oceans are now swimming into the canal's main freshwater lake, pushing out local species and threatening nearby communities, reported the New York Times.

What's happening?

Scientists at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute found that fish from the Atlantic and Pacific  including snooks, jacks, and snappers  have dramatically increased in Lake Gatun since the canal's expansion. These ocean species are replacing peacock bass and tilapia, two freshwater fish that local people rely on for food.

The changes affect people like Felix Martinez Gonzalez, who fishes Lake Gatun in his powder blue canoe.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"I'm not worried for myself; I'm worried for the next generation," he said. "All this affects them, too." On a recent day, he caught only 16 pounds of fish in six hours  half his usual catch before the expansion.

Local fishing guide Oswaldo Alberto Robles sees the impact on sport fishing, too. "Imagine 20, 30, 40 boats searching for one fish," he said. "We'll just keep running out of them even faster."

Why is this fish invasion concerning?

The problem goes beyond fewer fish for dinner. Scientists worry that some species, like the venomous lionfish from the Caribbean, could swim through to the Pacific Ocean and harm fish populations there. The canal's rising salt levels also threaten half of Panama's drinking water.

Manuel Cheng Penalba, a member of Panama's legislature, points out nobody discussed salt problems before expanding the canal. Now, people worry about water access in one of Earth's rainiest countries.

What's being done about the fish invasion?

Panama's leaders say they're working on solutions. Juan Carlos Navarro, the environment minister, used a Spanish saying to describe their approach: "I get dressed slowly because I'm in a hurry"  meaning they'll act urgently but carefully.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Scientists think adding barriers like electric fields or air bubble curtains might block some fish. But these fixes could slow down ships. And with invasive species, results are hard to predict.

Do you think America does a good job of protecting its natural beauty? Definitely Only in some areas No way I'm not sure Click your choice to see results and speak your mind.

Dr. Bella Galil, who studies similar issues in the Suez Canal, said controlling unwanted species takes time. "It takes a lifetime," she said. "But if you don't start, you are left with a destroyed sea."



Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices  and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club.




Scientists searching for snails in the Philippines have rediscovered a rare species of flora once thought to be extinct. According to Southeast Asian outlet ABS-CBN, a sighting of the tiny plant hadn't been recorded in over a century.

In 1895, botanist August Loher first discovered the rare Exacum loheri (H. Hara) Klack. Fast forward to 2025, and researchers from the University of the Philippines Diliman and the Philippine Normal University have published a study showing live photographs of the yellow and light purplish bloom found in the Masungi Georeserve.

The classification of Exacum loheri as a mycoheterotroph  meaning it relies on fungi, almost parasitically, instead of chlorophyll production for nutrients  makes it an interesting species to study. The rediscovery of the rare species adds to knowledge of the rich biodiversity protected within the 2,700-hectare rainforest reserve.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Masungi, located in the municipality of Baras, is home to over 400 plant and animal species. The identification of Exacum loheri within the reserve has now provided stakeholders with even more reason to protect the area from the potential for destructive activities, like raw material extraction, land speculation, and development of a controversial wind farm from Vena Energy  with many conservationists favoring renewable projects but not developed inside the reserve.

"Every year, science reveals more rare and endemic life thriving here  proof that this landscape is irreplaceable," Billie Dumaliang, the Masungi Georeserve Foundation's director for advocacy, said in a news release.

The small Masungi bloom isn't the only miracle of biodiversity stunning scientists. Amalophyllon miraculum is a purple-leafed plant recently rediscovered in an Ecuadorian area that has suffered nearly complete loss of existing biodiversity. The Millettia sacleuxii of eastern Tanzania, also thought to be extinct, now has a chance to thrive as researchers have germinated over 5,500 seedlings from pods found on surviving trees.

If Exacum loheri and other rare flora can adapt and persist, there is continued hope for the survival of countless other species facing ongoing challenges.

Do you think America does a good job of protecting its natural beauty? Definitely Only in some areas No way I'm not sure Click your choice to see results and speak your mind.



Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices  and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club.
San Francisco is an admittedly quirky city, but an emotional debate there over the tragic death of a cat is strangely emblematic about the way too many Americans react to current events. Something bad happens and then throngs of people mourn, get angry, and then demand that the government "do something"even if the something they call for will only make the problem worse.

For those who missed the internationally publicized brouhaha, a tabby named Kit Kat had lived in the city's Mission, where he sauntered into bodegas and bars. Dubbed the Mayor of 16th Street, Kit Kat was by all accounts a charming character. Then on October 27, the unthinkable happened: a Waymo self-driving taxi ran him over. Kit Kat's fans have erected memorials and taken to social media to mourn.

There's nothing wrong with mourning the death of a neighborhood cat. You'll have trouble finding someone who likes cats more than I do. I've got housecats, but also keep a food dish out front to lure neighborhood strays. One of my wife's favorite memories from Istanbul: Friendly cats that wander around restaurants and stores. The city even erected a statue memorializing one.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

So my problem isn't with the upset, but with the proposed solutions. As The New York Times reported, "Jackie Fielder, a progressive San Francisco supervisor who represents the Mission District, has been among the most vocal critics. She introduced a city resolution after Kit Kat's death that calls for the state Legislature to let voters decide if driverless cars can operate where they live."

She argued that human drivers can be held accountable, but not robot drivers. I seriously doubt that drivers are ever held "accountable" for accidentally running over an animal. And, actually, a new California law does hold driverless car companies accountable for traffic incidents.

Such arguments are anathema to public safety. I found research (thank you, AI robots) that cars kill or injure 5.4 million cats a year in the United States, with 5,399,999 coming at the hands of human drivers. I found estimates of hundreds of cats killed by drivers each year in San Francisco. I'd guess that buses and trainssome of Waymo critics' preferred transportation optionhave probably squashed their share of critters.

Then there are those 43,000 humans who die in collisions in the United States each year, many of which could be saved if driverless cars were more prevalent. One reason for the company's rapid growth is robotaxis' stellar safety record. Per the Times: "[H]uman drivers killed 43 people in San Francisco last year, including 24 pedestrians, 16 people in cars and three bicyclists. None were killed by Waymos." Many women and schoolchildren rely on them because of safety concerns, as a Google search of "taxi drivers and sexual abuse" will reveal.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Many robotaxi critics have ulterior motives that are unrelated to safety: Unions that fear job losses, the taxi industry, progressives who freak out at every technological development, transit activists, and people who have watched "Terminator" too many times.

A study by Swiss Re, an insurance company with the obvious financial incentive to understand the relative benefits and risks, found the following, per Reinsurance News: "The Waymo Driver exhibited significantly better safety performance, with an 88% reduction in property damage claims and a 92% reduction in bodily injury claims compared to human-driven vehicles."

Waymo's data find 11 times fewer serious-injury crashes. Most crashes involving a Waymo were due to other vehicles hitting their taxis. That makes perfect sense given their Artificial Intelligence (AI) software is continuously learning, whereas as it's increasingly difficult to teach some human drivers not to get behind the wheel after downing some martinis.

In January, one person and a dog died in a horrible wreck in San Francisco involving a Waymo. But that's the first fatal collision involving a driverless carand was caused by a human driver who plowed into a line of stopped cars. Tesla has received criticism for wrecks related to its self-driving mode, but those systems require active driver supervision.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

If you are creeped out about a robot driver, then you need to read CalMatters' recent investigative report finding: "The California DMV routinely allows dangerous drivers with horrifying histories to continue to operate on our roadways. Too often they go on to kill. Many keep driving even after they kill. Some go on to kill again." A cat's death is sad, but this is devastating.

The state legislature fortunately failed to pass a bill that would have done what Fielder suggests: Give local officials, rather than the state, the power to regulate robotaxis. That would have been a disaster, as every locality would impose its own rules, with some effectively banning them. It would stifle the industry and lead to more deaths of humansand cats.

When something bad happens, sometimes the best approach is doing nothing.

This column was first published in The Orange County Register.

The post Self-Driving Cars Will Make the World Safer for Catsand Humans Too appeared first on Reason.com.
Sen. Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., blasted Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth in an appearance on "Jimmy Kimmel Live" Tuesday, calling him unqualified and saying he just wants to please President Donald Trump.

The comments came after Hegseth asked the Navy secretary to review Kelly's comments in a video to troops for "potentially unlawful conduct," according to a memo posted on social media by the Pentagon.

The Arizona senator was one of six Democrats featured in a video last week addressed to military members telling them they don't have to follow illegal orders.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

MORE: Hegseth orders Navy to review Sen. Kelly for 'potentially unlawful conduct'

"The threats to our Constitution aren't just coming from abroad, but from right here right at home. Our laws are clear. You can refuse illegal orders," the group said. "No one has to carry out orders that violate the law or our Constitution."

The video sparked a firestorm, with President Donald Trump accusing the lawmakers of sedition and saying they should face consequences. In postings on X, Hegseth blasted Kelly for alleged "serious allegations of misconduct" and threatened with a court-martial, calling the video "a politically motivated influence operation."

The Department of Defense on Monday said it is launching a "thorough review" into Kelly, citing "serious allegations of misconduct."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Meanwhile, Kelly told Kimmel that the president and his administration's reaction sows fear, calling it an example of "how democracies die."

"It is right out of the playbook, you know, the playbook of authoritarianism. That's what they do. They try to suppress speech," Kelly said. "Every one of us has First Amendment speech rights, and I think the president is infringing on those and he is sending, he is sending a pretty strong message. You do not want to cross him, and your loyalty should be to him. It should not. It should always be to the Constitution."

Rebecca Noble/Reuters - PHOTO: FILE PHOTO: Senator Mark Kelly hosts a town hall in Sierra Vista, Arizona

MORE: Democrats defend message to troops as Trump, officials suggest they be punished

Kelly said that Hegseth is "totally unqualified" for the job and that "he just wants to please the president."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"He can go after me under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, which is law in the military, which is kind of wild, because we recited something in the Uniform Code of Military Justice, and he's going to prosecute me under the Uniform Code of Military Justice," Kelly said. "It is so ridiculous, it's almost like you can't make this s--- up."

Kelly also told Kimmel how he found out that Trump first reacted to the video with the post, detailing that he was with Sen. Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich., when a staffer interrupted their briefing and slid her a piece of paper.

"So somebody comes in in the middle of our brief, slips her piece of paper and I take a look at the piece of paper, and it says, 'The president is calling for your execution' -- to her, to Elissa, so she, she looks at me, she gets up, she walks out," Kelly said. "About five minutes later, she comes back in, looks at me and says, 'Well, he's calling for your execution too.' So I wasn't off the hook."

MORE: Trump calls Dems video to service members 'seditious behavior, punishable by death

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hegseth bashed the Arizona senator earlier this week, accusing him of incorrectly wearing his military medals.

"So 'Captain' Kelly, not only did your sedition video intentionally undercut good order & discipline...but you can't even display your uniform properly," Hegseth said in a post shared on X on Tuesday.

Hegseth's post was in response to Kelly's statement on Monday regarding the Pentagon's alleged review, which included a photo of his military medals.

"Your medals are out of order & rows reversed. When/if you are recalled to active duty, it'll start with a uniform inspection," Hegseth added.

Evelyn Hockstein/Reuters, FILE - PHOTO: Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth looks on during a meeting with President Donald Trump and Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington, D.C., Nov. 18, 2025.

MORE: Pentagon launches 'thorough review' into Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly over video to troops

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"The military already has clear procedures for handling unlawful orders. It does not need political actors injecting doubt into an already clear chain of command," Hegseth said on Tuesday.

All military officers who have retired after 20 years of service are able to be recalled to active duty, and if they are determined to have engaged in misconduct, they are subject to military prosecution -- potentially a court-martial.

Kelly served for 25 years in the Navy and at NASA, retiring in 2011.

The code referenced by the Defense Department could subject Kelly to an "administrative measure," which could include a reduction in rank -- and a reduction in his pension entitlement.

"That is not how our democracy works, and we cannot go down that slippery slope," said Kelly.
The former boyfriend of slain National Guardsman Sarah Beckstrom told CNN on Friday that Beckstrom was frustrated because she felt her hands were tied during her deployment to Washington, D.C.

Twenty-year-old Beckstrom and 24-year-old Andrew Wolfe were shot while on patrol on Thanksgiving Eve. Beckstrom succumbed to her wounds, while Wolfe remains hospitalized in critical condition. A 29-year-old Afghan immigrant is in custody, charged with the shootings.

CNNs Gabe Cohen traveled to West Virginia, where he asked Beckstroms former boyfriend Adam Carr, Did she believe in the mission of being there? Did she think it was important, or did she think they didnt belong there, the West Virginia National Guard?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It was mixed, Carr said. She got deputized in there, and they gave them no rights to do anything.

Carr continued:

She was like, People spit towards us, cuss at us, throw things at us, and we cant do nothing. She couldnt detain nobody. She couldnt stop them from doing wrong. It was they told them to call the cops. She wanted to make the difference. She wanted to extremely. She was happy with it. And she just was also like, Why am I here if I cant do nothing? Where they limited them so much. Shes like, Its pointless. Shes like, I get why were here. Crime is bad, but its pointless if we cant do anything.

President Donald Trump announced Beckstroms death on Thursday.

I must unfortunately tell you that just seconds before I went on, right now, I heard that Sarah Beckstrom of West Virginia, one of the Guardsmen that we are talking about, highly respected, young, magnificent person, started service in June of 2023, outstanding in every way, shes just passed away, he said. Shes no longer with us.

Trump also announced that he would permanently pause migration from third-world countries to further clamp down on immigration.

Watch the clip above via CNN.

The post Slain National Guard Member Reportedly Thought D.C. Deployment Was Pointless first appeared on Mediaite.
There could be some snow in the Tri-State this weekend. Just not much of it.

The city of Evansville should only receive trace amounts of winter precipitation on Saturday, the National Weather Service said in an update Friday morning. That total could rise as you move closer to Interstate 64.

But we could experience another shot at snow next week  along with a stretch of cold temperatures.

When will the snow start in Evansville?

According to the NWS, light snow will start as early as 5 a.m. Saturday in Evansville.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Precipitation will change over (to) rain by late morning and remain rain throughout the remainder of the day," the bulletin reads. "Brief travel impacts are possible with slippery/slushy road conditions Saturday morning. Afternoon rain and warming temperatures will clear up impacts."

Slabs of Southern Illinois along I-64 could see as much as an inch, while Western Kentucky likely won't get any snow at all.

The high temperature on Saturday will barely breach 40 degrees. The low won't be much lower, at 32 degrees.

A graphic from the National Weather Service shows the chances for snow in Evansville on Saturday, Nov. 29. Much of Indiana faces the possibility of a winter storm.

Other parts of Indiana could face a winter storm

Evansville will field the dregs of a system that will sweep across the state this weekend and dump wildly different amounts of precipitation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Bloomington area could get as much as 3 inches. Indianapolis, meanwhile, will face "some pretty significant impacts" Saturday morning, the NWS told the Indy Star, which as much as five inches of snow possible. Those amounts may reach double digits closer to the Michigan border.

Will it snow next week?

"Another system is possible Monday night into Tuesday," NWS meteorologist Andy Lesage said in an email to media outlets Friday. "Uncertainty in positioning of this system remains, but temperatures will be cold so wintry weather would be projected."

Temperatures may not get above freezing Monday and Tuesday, with highs around 32 and 33. The lows will be around 20 degrees. That trend will continue at least until Thursday, NWS says.

Evansville weather radar

This article originally appeared on Evansville Courier & Press: Will it snow in Evansville or Henderson this weekend?
SOMERSET, Ky. (FOX 56)  A Somerset couple was indicted on Nov. 7 after being charged in 2024 for allegedly sharing sexual images of a minor online.

In September 2024, the Kentucky State Police Electronic Crime Branch announced that officers arrested 38-year-old Christopher and 29-year-old Amy Ethridge.

LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

KSP said the investigation began after Christopher allegedly shared sexually explicit images online.

Christopher was charged with:

First-degree sodomy of a minor under the age of 12

Use of a minor under the age of 16 in a sexual performance

Promoting a minor under the age of 16 in a sexual performance

Procuring or promoting the use of a minor by an electronic means

Distribution of matter portraying a minor under the age of 12 in a sexual performance (nine counts)

Possession of matter portraying a minor under the age of 12 in a sexual performance (20 counts)

Amy was charged with:

Use of a minor under the age of 16 in a sexual performance

Promoting a minor under the age of 16 in a sexual performance

Distribution of matter portraying a minor under the age of 12 in a sexual performance

Procuring or promoting the use of a minor by an electronic means

Possession of matter portraying a minor under the age of 12 in a sexual performance (20 counts)

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They were booked into the Pulaski County Detention Center, where they are still being held, according to the detention center website.

LATEST KENTUCKY LISTS AND RANKINGS:

Christopher and Amy Ethridge will appear in federal court on Dec. 19 in London.

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 56 News.
MELBOURNE, Australia (AP)  Lawyers for two sons of Virginia Giuffre, her housekeeper and her former attorney appeared in an Australian court Friday in a case deciding who controls her estate.

Giuffre was the highest-profile accuser of sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and she settled a lawsuit for an undisclosed sum in 2022 against the former Prince Andrew, now known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, after he was stripped of his royal titles over his association with Epstein

She died by suicide in April at the age of 41 at her farm in Western Australia state without leaving a will.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The only adults of her three children  Christian Giuffre, 19, and Noah Giuffre, who is 18  filed a case in the state Supreme Court in June to gain control of their mothers estate including property in Western Australia, where she had lived for years, and potential revenue from her memoir Nobodys Girl.

The memoir, released last month, expands on her claims that she was sexually trafficked as a teen by the late financier to billionaires, politicians and King Charles III's brother. Mountbatten-Windsor categorically rejected the allegations and said he didn't recall having met her.

The brothers want the court to appoint them administrators of their mothers estate.

The brothers' application is opposed by Virginia Giuffres former housekeeper and caregiver Cheryl Myers and her former Perth-based attorney, Karrie Louden. The women want to be made administrators.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A temporary administrator was appointed this week to manage the estate. The first court hearing in the case was held Friday and another will be scheduled next year.

Lawyers on Friday discussed a range of issues, including whether Virginia Giuffres daughter, who cannot be named for legal reasons, and her estranged husband Robert Giuffre should become parties in the case.

Virginia Giuffre separated from her husband and children this year. She had been charged with breaching a family violence restraining order over an incident in February, and died before she was to appear in court over the matter.
SOUTH BRUNSWICK  A 61-year-old township woman died in a three-car crash on New Road on Thanksgiving Eve.

Around 4:24 p.m. Nov. 26, South Brunswick Police responded to a three-car crash on New Road between Route 522 and Route 1, police said.

One driver died at the hospital at 10:19 p.m., according to police.

The person's identity has not been released.

More: Two injured after Turnpike crash in Cranford

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The crash is under investigation, and no other information is available at this time, police said.

"We extend our heartfelt sorrow to the family and friends of the resident who passed away. We will continue to work with the prosecutor's office to investigate all the details," South Brunswick Police Chief Raymond Hayducka said in a statement.

Email: alewis@njpressmedia.com

Alexander Lewis is an award-winning reporter and photojournalist whose work spans many topics.

This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: South Brunswick NJ woman dies in Thanksgiving Eve crash
Southwest is sending a clear message to travelers and a key competitor.

The airline is engaged in a "billboard war" with United Airlines. And it's taking place in Denver on the side of a couple of buildings. Southwest is taking the messaging war to United amid a year of controversies surrounding the elimination of free checked bags and unassigned seating.

According to Simple Flying, United erected a billboard that read more flights southwest than, well, you know But Southwest didn't take that barb lying down, putting up its own billboard above United's with this message to United: "Cant hear you from up here.

Southwest also added that Flying southwest doesnt make you Southwest," according to Simple Flying.

Another billboard from Southwest sent a message to travelers, telling them that Southwest Airlines "was ranked first in economy/basic class customer satisfaction by JD Power and included the line, 'Dont let the mic hit you,'" according to Simple Flying.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The aggressive messaging shows that Southwest isn't holding back in making the case to customers, focusing on a message of customer satisfaction.

A Man Whose Office Is Nearby Called the Billboard Messages an 'Epic Turf War'

Travelers walk through the Southwest Airlines terminal at the Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport on November 26, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland. Airlines expect up to 31 million travelers to fly during the Thanksgiving holiday between November 21 and December 1. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

One man whose office is nearby took note of the billboard messaging on LinkedIn.

"Just out my office window in downtown Denver, we are witnessing an epic turf warnot on the runway, but on the billboards.  United Airlines and Southwest Airlines are going head-to-head in a cheeky ad campaign, with hyperbole dialed up a mile high," wrote Bill Keller, a senior project manager.

"Uniteds latest static billboard states they fly...southwest...a lot. Meanwhile, Southwest took to a dynamic video platform to have a little fun with that claim in between luxurious scenes of United destinations," he added. "The result? A high-flying mike drop duel thats as entertaining as it is strategic. Love seeing this kind of bold, frenemy marketing in action. Competition like this keeps the skies (and the prices) friendly."

Reddit Users Enjoyed the Competitive Messages

The billboard war made it onto the Reddit thread for United Airlines. "Shots fired," wrote a person who posted photos of the billboards.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to photos posted to Reddit, Southwest has been posting comments on billboards at the location for at least a month.

"Interesting. I found that Southwest billboard to be better actually. They should've just kept it and waited for United to find a better message," one person wrote.

"Yeah, but with United, you get to act like you are better than everyone else because you have status," joked another Reddit user, while another person took a jab at Southwest.

Southwest Airlines has been the focal point of controversy all year because of the series of changes, including a move away from unassigned seating and the elimination of free checked bags for all.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a recent letter emailed to Southwest Airlines customers, Southwest CEO Bob Jordan wrote, We know you count on us to connect you to whats important in your life. Thank you for your patience and trust as we worked through the challenges our industry faced during the recent U.S. government shutdown, Jordan wrote in the email.

Thanks to significant investments weve made in our operation and technology, Southwest was able to minimize disruptionseven in a challenging and constantly evolving environment, and even as others in the industry struggled, Jordan wrote.

Related:

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Nov 27, 2025, where it first appeared in the Travel section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Explainer: Is the new Ukraine "peace plan" a real deal for peace?

Xinhua) 08:17, November 28, 2025

U.S. President Donald Trump (2nd L) welcomes Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, Oct 17, 2025. (Xinhua/Hu Yousong)

The main sticking point is likely to remain territory, a key issue left unresolved in the revised plan.

WASHINGTON, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- The U.S.-proposed 28-point "peace plan" was unveiled last week. Following its release, representatives from the United States, Ukraine and several European countries met in Geneva on Sunday to discuss the plan.

Through discussions, the revised plan has been cut down to 19 points but not been made public, marking the latest shift in the ongoing diplomatic push to end the four-year-old war.

How close, then, does the revised plan come to real peace?

DIPLOMACY EFFORTS AS WAR RAGES

In the hope of finalizing the draft plan, U.S. President Donald Trump said Tuesday he has directed his special envoy Steve Witkoff to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, while Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll is expected to meet Ukrainian officials in the coming days.

The Kremlin confirmed on Wednesday that "a preliminary agreement has been reached."

Citing an unnamed source, Axios reported on Tuesday that a Ukrainian delegation led by Ukrainian Defense Intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov has been holding talks with both the Russian and the U.S. sides in Abu Dhabi, capital of the United Arab Emirates.

However, as diplomatic efforts to end the war continued, strikes still spread. Ukraine on Wednesday reported another night of Russian air strikes, with a drone attack in Zaporizhzhia wounding more than a dozen people and damaging dozens of homes, governor Ivan Fedorov said.

Russia, meanwhile, said its air defenses had shot down 118 Ukrainian drones overnight, including 52 over the border region of Belgorod.

Amid intensifying battlefield pressures and the growing strain on Kiev's finances, the International Monetary Fund said on Wednesday it had reached a staff-level agreement with Ukraine on a new four-year, 8.2-billion-U.S.-dollar program to help the country preserve macroeconomic stability and shore up public finances.

CLOSER TO PEACE?

As U.S. media reported, the initial plan required Ukraine to give up territory, curb its military and abandon North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) membership, with Russia offering a promise to cease future attacks. This has caused worry.

While the specifics of the revised plan remain undisclosed, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Tuesday that "the principles of this document can be expanded into deeper agreements," but that "much depends" now on Washington.

Ukraine has made clear it will not amend its Constitution as part of any potential peace deal. "We have stated that Ukraine will not accept any form of recognition and Ukraine will not make any changes to the Constitution -- these are red lines," said Oleksandr Bevz, an adviser to the head of Ukraine's presidential office, Interfax-Ukraine reported Wednesday.

The main sticking point is likely to remain territory, a key issue left unresolved in the revised plan. The original plan required Kiev to surrender the entire eastern Donbas region, home to an estimated six million people.

Although Russian forces have made gains there over the past four years, large portions of the region remain under Ukrainian control, and Kiev has deemed any demand to relinquish it unacceptable.

Trump has insisted that progress was being made and claimed Moscow was offering concessions, even though the war -- with Russian forces steadily advancing -- was "moving in one direction." But Russia rejected that characterization. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov told reporters on Wednesday: "There can be no talk of concessions, nor of abandoning our positions on the key issues."

"We've seen it and it was delivered to us, but there have been no discussions yet," Yuri Ushakov, Russian presidential aide, told state television, adding that "some aspects can be viewed positively, but many require expert-level examination."

Asked the same day whether a peace deal was close, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said it was "premature to say that," according to media.

"This so-called 'peace plan' has real problems, and I am highly skeptical it will achieve peace," U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, the Republican chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, said in a statement on Friday.

REACTIONS IN EUROPE

The original disclosures have drawn sharp reactions in Europe, where officials fear being sidelined in the negotiating process and view aspects of the draft as favoring Russia.

Referring to the plan, French President Emmanuel Macron pointed out that there are "conditions" for "this peace to be acceptable," although "any initiative that leads to peace is a good thing."

"Ukraine's territory and sovereignty must be respected. Only Ukraine, as a sovereign country, can make decisions regarding its armed forces. The choice of their destiny is in their own hands ... I also want to emphasize Europe's centrality in the country's future," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on Monday.

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul also said on Monday it was clear that nothing could be "agreed over the heads" of the Europeans and Ukraine. It must be ensured that Ukraine's sovereignty is preserved, he added, and Ukraine itself must decide what concessions it makes and when.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
YINCHUAN, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Chen, 30, was born with brachydactyly -- a hereditary condition that results in shortened fingers or toes -- and for the majority of his life, he has been testing the limited capabilities of doctors near his home in northwest China. Until recently, the only alternative was seeking expert care in a large far-off city, but that meant tackling a discouraging maze of scarce appointments, costly travel and endless waits.

A turning point for Chen came when orthopedic surgeon Liang Zhijun at the First People's Hospital of Yinchuan in the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region suggested a different path. Recognizing the complexity of Chen's condition and the significant challenges of surgery, Liang chose not to refer him elsewhere. Instead, he went online to research options close to home.

Through Yinchuan's national expert remote diagnosis and treatment center, Liang consulted with Fang Yousheng, a leading hand surgeon at Huashan Hospital, which is affiliated with Fudan University in Shanghai. Their virtual assessment produced a joint surgical plan and arrangements for Fang to travel to nearby Yinchuan, where he underwent a successful, life-changing surgery.

Chen's case represents one strand of a broad transformation unfolding across China, where a national effort to integrate digital tools into health care is steadily dismantling long-standing barriers to medical access. Through the "Internet Plus Healthcare" initiative, a new model of care is taking hold -- one that reaches deep into regions like Ningxia and turns once distant, top-tier medical resources into something local and attainable.

Driving this transformation is fast-growing digital infrastructure. The Yinchuan center has facilitated over 3,800 remote expert consultations. Patients in far-flung regions can obtain top-level diagnoses from specialists in Beijing or Shanghai without undertaking punishing journeys or stepping outside their local insurance networks, in a systemwide reallocation of medical expertise beyond telemedicine.

The impact of this transformation is felt most keenly at the grassroots level. The rural town of Zhangyi in Yuanzhou District, which is administered by Guyuan City in Ningxia, once battled the daily frustration of a limited medical capacity. "We lacked specialists. Even when we had X-rays, no one could interpret them, so patients had to be referred to the county seat," said Ye Rui, deputy director of the town's health center. "The delays often made their conditions worse."

The arrival of a CT scanner and the remote diagnosis system changed everything. Now, scans are carried out locally and uploaded with a click, and diagnosticians at the People's Hospital of Yuanzhou District return detailed reports online. Results are accepted across the county, sparing patients from repeat tests at higher-level facilities.

By the end of last year, China's remote medical services network covered all cities and counties, extending its reach to communities and villages. Official statistics show that roughly 70 percent of township-level health centers now work in remote partnership with higher-level hospitals.

Behind this change is a firm policy push from the top to build a "Healthy China." The country's pending 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) calls for the advancement of the digital, intelligent construction of a national health system. As the first region designated as an "Internet Plus Healthcare" pilot area, Ningxia has become a national test bed, with its pioneering practices maturing into a replicable model.

The region has built a robust, five-tier remote services system and established centralized diagnostic hubs spanning specialties from imaging to pathology. A "grassroots examination, higher-level diagnosis and region-wide report recognition" model has been established to promote standardized and homogeneous regional health care services.

A fresh wave of innovation is now cresting in the form of artificial intelligence (AI). At the People's Hospital of Helan County in Yinchuan, the DeepSeek system deployed early this year represents the next phase of digital medicine. The platform combines WiNGPT, a specialized medical AI model developed by the Shanghai-based Winning Health Technology Group, with a general-purpose model to support clinicians across workflows.

"Once we make an initial assessment, DeepSeek takes over, issuing risk warnings, recommending tests, prompting differential diagnoses and drafting treatment plans," said Lan Xiaoyan, a neurological physician at the hospital, adding that the only thing they now need to do is fine-tune the results, which has cut consultation times dramatically.

The push toward a future of AI plus health care is reinforced by a national implementation plan, underscoring China's resolve to embed next-generation technologies into the core of its health system.

The story is no longer simply about linking a patient in Ningxia with a surgeon in Shanghai. Instead, it is about constructing an ecosystem where a clear roadmap, robust policy support and a steadfast pace of innovation intersect to deliver a smarter, accessible and equitable medical future for hundreds of millions.

And for patients like Chen, that future has already arrived. 
Migrants from Mexico and Guatemala are apprehended by U.S. Customs and Border Patrol officers after crossing a section of border wall into the U.S. on Jan. 4, 2025 in Ruby, Arizona. (Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images)

In celebration of its 10 years of service, the Southwest Detroit Immigrant and Refugee Center is launching multiple initiatives to expand its reach, strengthen its community partnerships and invite broader participation in its mission.

Since its founding in 2015, the center has offered free and low-cost legal services to more than 25,000 immigrants, refugees and asylum seekers in the Detroit area.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

One of those new initiatives is a year-end donation drive, aiming to bring in $250,000 in donations by the end of the year to expand free and low-cost legal services for immigrants and refugees across Southeast Michigan.

The center is also inviting business and community partners to join in its mission of expanding access to justice through collaborative initiatives, which the center uses to expand its legal services.

It is also working on volunteer engagement, with the center continuing to invite attorneys, legal students, translators and researchers to support their goal of ensuring immigrants are welcomed into their communities and that justice does not depend on how much money someone has.

Each person who walks through our doors carries dreams and challenges, the centers Executive Director Kevin Piecuch said in a news release. To have served 25,000 clients since 2015 means 25,000 steps toward justice, safety and belonging. Were proud of what has been accomplished  but even more excited about whats ahead.

More information on volunteering and the organizations donation drive can be found at detimmigrantcenter.com.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
After remaining earthbound during the Thanksgiving holiday week, SpaceX's Florida fleet of Falcon 9 rockets will resume launching into orbit with a pair of Starlink missions Monday, Dec. 1, and Tuesday, Dec. 2.

SpaceX's first four-hour launch window will extend from 12 a.m. to 4 a.m. Monday from pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center.

Then, the second Falcon 9 window will open from 3:16 p.m. to 7:16 p.m. Tuesday from Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Each rocket will ascend to the southeast, then deploy 29 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit. These Monday-Tuesday liftoffs will follow SpaceX launching the unprecedented 100th and 101st orbital rockets during a single calendar year from the Cape.

Cape Canaveral: Is there a launch today? Upcoming SpaceX, Blue Origin, ULA launch schedule at Cape Canaveral

"This is an incredible milestone for Floridas Space Coast, and the teams that make spaceflight feel routine and remarkable all at once should be proud," U.S. Rep. Mike Haridopolos, R-Indian Harbour Beach, said in a Nov. 21 tweet.

"Heres to a sky full of satellites and a future full of possibilities," Haridopolos said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Looking ahead, SpaceX is also targeting Sunday, Dec. 7, for another Starlink mission from KSC. Two days later, SpaceX aims to launch a Falcon 9 at 2:16 p.m. Dec. 9 from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on the NROL-77 national security mission.

NROL-77 will mark SpaceX's third national security launch this year for the Space Force's Space Systems Command and the National Reconnaissance Office.

"The momentum behind #100andBeyond continues! Last weeks successful launch of Starlink 6-79 officially marked the 101st launch of the year for the #SpaceCoast," Space Launch Delta 45 officials said in a Facebook post on Tuesday, Nov. 25.

"As previously noted, this means the output from our installation alone has now matched the world record for annual orbital launches achieved by any other single nation," the post said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Move over Elphaba and Glinda, SLD 45 are the ones out here #DefyingGravity," the post said, referring to the stars of "Wicked."

For the latest news from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station and NASA's Kennedy Space Center, visit floridatoday.com/space. Another easy way: Click here to sign up for our weekly Space newsletter.

Rick Neale is a Space Reporter at FLORIDA TODAY. Contact Neale at Rneale@floridatoday.com. Twitter/X: @RickNeale1

Space is important to us and that's why we're working to bring you top coverage of the industry and Florida launches. Journalism like this takes time and resources. Please support it with a subscription here.

This article originally appeared on Florida Today: SpaceX's next Cape Canaveral rocket launches coming up Monday, Tuesday
By Jesus Calero and Emma Pinedo

MADRID/BEIJING (Reuters) -China has banned pork imports from Barcelona province after Spain detected its first case of African swine fever in three decades in two wild boar found dead in the area, a Chinese Customs document seen by Reuters showed.

The outbreak of the virus, last recorded in Spain in 1994, coincides with Spanish efforts to court Beijing and gain market share in the pork sector and after China imposed tariffs on EU pork during an anti-dumping investigation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A separate Customs database entry showed China has also suspended pork imports from plants in the affected area belonging to 12 companies, including major exporters Costa Food Meat and Matadero Frigorifico Avinyo.

SPAIN HALTS ALL PORK SHIPMENTS TO CHINA TEMPORARILY

Spain is the European Union's leading pork producer, accounting for roughly a quarter of the bloc's output, ahead of Germany, with annual pork exports of about 3.5 billion euros ($4.05 billion).

Spain recently signed an agreement with China that means producers in other parts of Spain should not be affected by the ban, but it has halted all pork shipments to China as a precaution until Beijing confirms it has implemented the protocol to restrict trade only from the affected province, Emilio Garcia, a senior Spanish agriculture ministry official, told reporters in a briefing.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Once China declares it has been activated, Spain will be able to resume exports from regions that are unaffected by the virus, he said.

The restrictions and special monitoring will last at least 12 months, Garcia added.

South Korea and the United States also have regionalisation protocols with Spain, so they will continue to import from Spanish regions except the province of Barcelona, which contains 14 meat-processing plants.

However, exports to Mexico and Japan will be restricted as the countries have no regionalisation agreements with Spain, Garcia said.

PORK INDUSTRY ALREADY STRUGGLING

"The European market is already struggling after a 20% drop in prices since July," said Jean-Paul Simier, a meat analyst at French commodities research group Cyclope.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"There is a risk of an embargo against the biggest EU pork exporter, notably in Asia, and China in particular."

Spanish pork lobby group Interporc said pork farms within a 20-kilometre (12.4-mile) radius of the location where the boar were found would face restrictions on operating and selling their products. There are 39 pig farms within that radius, according to the Agriculture Ministry.

Spain's farmers' association, Asaja, said the sector was ready to face the outbreak, but called on authorities to address an "out-of-control presence" of wild animals such as boars and rabbits in rural areas that risked contaminating livestock.

"We have spent years modernising farms, reinforcing biosecurity and making our operations among the most advanced in the world," it said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Garcia said authorities would conduct a census of the area's wild boar population and tightly monitor their movements. The two boar carcasses had been found "while they were still fresh," so the virus was detected early, he said.

Spain's pork exports to China of over 540,000 metric tons in 2024 were worth 1.1 billion euros ($1.28 billion), Garcia said.

The virus, which is harmless to humans but deadly for pigs, has been spreading westwards in Europe in recent years.

Germany's sizeable pork industry has already been rattled, with many overseas countries imposing bans on its pork. In recent months, Croatia has been trying to contain an outbreak.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

($1 = 0.8637 euros)

(Reporting by Jesus Calero, Emma Pinedo, David Latona and Corina Pons in Madrid and Ella Cao in Beijing; additional reporting by Gus Trompiz in Paris; editing by Charlie Devereux, Kevin Liffey, Sharon Singleton, Rod Nickel)
St. Paul Fire Chief Butch Inks, whom Mayor Melvin Carter appointed to a second, six-year term last summer, is instead retiring at the end of this year, he told the fire department Friday.

Inks worked for the city for 40 years, of which 31 were as a St. Paul firefighter. He said his decision to leave is not about politics with a new mayor being elected, but about being able to continue doing the physical work of a firefighter after shoulder-replacement surgery this month.

He originally injured his shoulder while working at a major fire when he was a captain. Though Inks is no longer putting out fires, he said he believes St. Pauls fire chief should be able to carry out all the duties of a firefighter.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I ask them to put their life on the line and to do extraordinary things, he said in an interview this week.  As a leader, I dont think I should be expecting them to do something I cant do.

Pride in hometown fire department never faded

Inks climbed through the fire departments ranks to assistant chief and served as interim chief for nearly two years before Carter formally selected him as fire chief in 2019 following a national search.

Carter announced in July that hed appointed Inks to a second term, which began this month. Inks said he was hopeful at that point hed be able to continue in his role as fire chief, but as his surgery date drew closer he said he knew his plans would be dependent on the outcome.

Inks is a licensed firefighter, which requires ongoing training, and he said he determined his shoulder could not withstand continued training without the risk of further injury.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He recently informed Carter and State Rep. Kaohly Her, who ousted Carter in the November election, that he would retire effective Dec. 30.

Hers leadership team will be determining next steps and theyve been in contact with the Carter administration also, according to Matt Wagenius, Hers spokesperson.

Mayor-elect Her stopped by Inks home last Saturday, as he was recovering from surgery, and dropped off dinner for him and his family. She is one of the kindest people Ive ever met, he added, and he said he wishes he could work for her.

Telling the fire department as a whole that hes retiring proved more difficult than Inks expected. On Friday, he was ready to send the message hed been drafting.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I will never forget the day I received my badge, Inks wrote in a department-wide email. The pride I felt was overwhelming  because I wasnt just becoming a firefighter, I was becoming a St. Paul Firefighter. Thirty-one years later, that same sense of pride, service, and overwhelming gratitude for being part of the best fire department in the nation has never faded.

Inks grew up in St. Pauls North End. He was first hired by the city in 1985 through a youth employment program and later joined the St. Paul Fire Department in 1994.

He served for 26 years in the Air Force Reserves, was deployed various times and retired as a master sergeant in 2012.

Next job: Head of fire service certification board

Inks is 56, and married with four children. He isnt retiring from working; he will be the next executive director of the Minnesota Fire Service Certification Board.

Related Articles

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

People seeking to become a firefighter need to be certified in multiple areas of firefighting. The certification board, which is not a state agency, conducts examinations and assessments of individuals. If they pass, the board issues certification. The Minnesota Board of Firefighter Training and Education is where people go from there to seek licensure as a firefighter.

Past St. Paul fire chiefs have served long terms, and there have also been instances of sudden turnover. Inks became interim chief when Tim Butler stepped down as chief during his second term, after hed been in the role for 10 years.

Kyle Thornberg, president of St. Paul International Association of Fire Fighters Local 21, said Inks work with the union strengthened the department and set a model for others to follow.

Chief Inks 31 years of service reflect a deep commitment to St. Paul and to the firefighters who protect it, Thornberg said Friday.

What his time as fire chief entailed

When Carter announced Inks reappointment last summer, the mayor said his notable accomplishments included:

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

 Increasing EMS and fire staffing to the highest levels in department history through an innovative schedule that also reduced overtime costs.

 Implementing Basic Life Support and Advanced Life Support emergency medical response models, which improved response times and created more than 30 new local jobs.

 Coordinating 200 emergency responders during the COVID-19 pandemic and periods of civil unrest by managing over 50 incidents during a 12-hour period in the days after George Floyd was killed in Minneapolis and preventing millions in property damage.

Related Articles

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

 Securing funding and approval for a new fire station in the citys highest call volume area. The new station in Daytons Bluff replaced a station that dated to 1930.

 Introducing comprehensive cardiac screenings and enhanced physical exams for firefighters to support their health and safety.

In his retirement announcement to the department, Inks wrote: Do not be afraid to challenge the norm or push back against tradition  while holding tight to what truly works. Remember what youve learned. Dont take no for an answer when the mission demands better.

Foster relationships, build friendships, and never forget the feeling you had on the day you became a St. Paul Firefighter.
(Reuters) -The Starbucks workers' union said on Friday it is escalating an indefinite strike to more than 120 stores and 85 cities, demanding higher pay and staffing levels at the coffee chain.

The walkout, which is set to be the longest strike in the history of Starbucks, began on its Red Cup Day on November 13 with 65 stores and more than 40 cities.

The strike comes on Black Friday, the busiest time of year for retailers when shoppers hunt for bargains on everything from food and groceries to apparel and appliances.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Workers also went on strike at Amazon warehouses in Germany on Black Friday, aiming to disrupt operations on a key sales day as they push for a collective bargaining agreement, with separate protests also planned outside Zara stores in Spain.

"It's time for Brian Niccol and Starbucks executives to stop stalling and cut the excuses," Michelle Eisen, Starbucks Workers United spokesperson, said.

Starbucks, which has more than 17,000 coffeehouses in the U.S., said that 99% of its locations in the country remain open.

"Regardless of the union's plans, we do not anticipate any meaningful disruption. When the union is ready to return to the bargaining table, we're ready to talk", a spokesperson for Starbucks said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Striking baristas are demanding higher wages, improved working hours and the resolution of hundreds of unfair labor practice charges for union busting.

Contract talks remain stalled despite mediation efforts in February, with both sides trading blame after delegates rejected Starbucks' proposed package in April that guaranteed annual raises of at least 2%.

Workers United said it represents over 11,000 baristas and about 550 Starbucks stores.

Starbucks Workers United has repeatedly targeted the company's busy holiday season and Red Cup Day, when Starbucks hands out reusable red holiday-themed cups to customers for free on coffee purchases.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Workers have staged one-day "Red Cup Rebellions" since 2022, and in December 2024, some employees walked off for a five-day strike over unresolved wage, staffing and scheduling issues.

(Reporting by Chandni Shah in Bengaluru; Editing by Arun Koyyur and Shinjini Ganguli)
The Brief

The SS Edmund Fitzgerald sank on Nov. 10, 1975, during a violent Lake Superior storm that claimed all 29 crew members.

The ship battled escalating winds, massive waves, radar failure and severe listing before disappearing in one of the Great Lakes most notorious "Gales of November."

Experts say the unique weather patterns over the Great Lakes can generate rapid, relentless waves and hurricane-force gusts that contributed to the tragedy.

DETROIT - On Nov. 10, 1975, the SS Edmund Fitzgerald sank during a massive storm on Lake Superior.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It was one of the most devastating shipwrecks in recorded U.S. history.

Take a look back at what happened on that tragic day.

Where was the Edmund Fitzgerald headed?

FILE - View of the 729-foot ore boat SS Edmund Fitzgerald, Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan, 1972. The ship sank, losing all hands, over the night of Nov. 10, 1975. (Photo by Bettmann/Getty Images)

Timeline

The ship's voyage has been well documented through the years.

Nov. 9, 1975, 2:15 p.m. The Edmund Fitzgerald departs Superior, Wisconsin, en route to Detroit.

Nov. 9, 5 p.m. The ship is joined by the Arthur M. Anderson. The National Weather Service issues gale warnings for Lake Superior that forecast winds up to 40 knots and waves of 5 to 10 feet.

Nov. 10, after 2 a.m. Because of the storm, the two ships head northeast, out of the normal shipping lanes. NWS issues a storm warning for northeast winds up to 50 knots and 8-to-15-foot waves.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Nov. 10, 1 p.m. Edmund Fitzgerald turns southeast toward Whitefish Bay, with the Anderson several miles behind. A weather station at Stannard Rock reports winds at 50 knots gusting to 59 knots.

Nov. 10, 3:30-3:35 p.m. The Edmund Fitzgerald calls Anderson to report damage: a fence rail down, two ballast tank vents lost or damaged, the ship listing. It reduces speed so Anderson can stay close. Shortly after, the Coast Guard advises that the Sault Ste. Marie locks have closed and ships should seek a safe anchorage.

Nov. 10, 4:10-4:15 p.m. The Edmund Fitzgerald reports both its radars have failed and asks Anderson to help with navigation. A radio beacon at Whitefish Point has been knocked out by a power failure, further complicating navigation. NWS predicts northwest winds of 38 to 52 knots with gusts to 60 knots and waves of 8 to 16 feet.

Nov. 10, 5-5:30 p.m. McSorley tells the captain of a Swedish vessel that the Edmund Fitzgerald has a "bad list," has lost both radars and is taking waves over the deck, describing the seas as some of the worst McSorley has ever been in.

How many people died on the Edmund Fitzgerald?

All 29 men who were aboard the ship died.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The crew members were:

Michael E. Armagost, 37 Fred J. Beetcher, 56 Thomas D. Bentsen, 23 Edward F. Bindon, 47 Thomas D. Borgeson, 41 Oliver J. Champeau, 41 Nolan S. Church, 55 Ransom E. Cundy, 53 Thomas E. Edwards, 50 Russell G. Haskell, 40 George J. Holl, 60 Bruce L. Hudson, 22 Allen G. Kalmon, 43 Gordon F. MacLellan, 30 Joseph W. Mazes, 57 John H. McCarthy, 62 Ernest W. McSorley, 63 (Captain) Eugene W. OBrien, 50 Karl A. Peckol, 20 John J. Poviach, 59 James A. Pratt, 44 Robert C. Rafferty, 62 Paul M. Riippa, 22 John D. Simmons, 62 William J. Spengler, 59 Mark A. Thomas, 21 Ralph G. Walton, 58 David E. Weiss, 22 Blaine H. Wilhelm, 52

Great Lakes unique weather conditions

Local perspective

The Great Lakes are vast and could be considered oceans. For example, Lake Superior measures about 350 miles wide.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Whats even more astonishing is that storms that take place over the Great Lakes can be worse than storms over oceans, according to Derek Kevra, meteorologist for FOX 2 Detroit.

Dig deeper

High winds over the Great Lakes can produce waves that are more frequent than those in oceans.

That doesnt necessarily mean they are stronger, but they occur more often and are larger, Kevra explained.

"Well, over the ocean, you get a huge wave that comes through, then you get break, then you another huge wave that comes though. But over the Great Lakes, you don't get those breaks. And that's likely one of the things that happened with the Edmund Fitzgerald is there was multiple waves, intense waves, very quickly," Kerva continued.

The backstory

The storm that brought down the Edmund Fitzgerald was not unusual for its time. November is a busy month for inclement weather on the Great Lakes and there's a reason why.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The arrival of colder, darker months means the air temperature blowing into the region arrives with a chill. But not the water, which is still warm from the summer. This clash of cold air and warm water fuels an unstable weather system.

The result? Hurricane-force winds and waves that can reach three stories high, known as the Gales of November.

On Nov. 10, 1975, the 29 sailors aboard the Edmund Fitzgerald got caught in one of these weather patterns, and disappeared while embroiled in the heart of the storm.

What they're saying

"They were expecting initially 40- to 45-, 50-mile-an-hour winds when they issued a gale warning, and then they upgraded it to a storm warning expecting higher ends of 50 to maybe 60, but 100 miles an hour was not expected. And so that is one of the things that we know now, a system like this could produce a high end of 100-mile-an-hour wind gusts. Kind of right in line with the category one hurricane," Kevra said.

The Source

Information for this article was taken from an interview with FOX 2 Detroits Derek Kevra and previous reporting by FOX 2, Detroit Free Press, and The Associated Press. This story was reported from San Jose.
ST. PAUL, Minn., Nov. 28 (UPI) -- Dogs given food supplements containing hemp-derived cannabidiol, or CBD, over a span of several years show reduced levels of aggression, according to a veterinary study published Friday.

The data collected from nearly 50,000 dog owners also reveal a higher prevalence of canine CBD use in states with more progressive cannabis legalization, suggesting that owners who approve of CBD use for themselves transfer those values to their pets as members of their human families.

The study, published in the journal Frontiers of Veterinary Science, was authored by researchers from Arizona State University, the University of Tennessee and members of the Dog Aging Project Consortium, an open U.S. science project dedicated to understanding the biological and environmental factors that influence canine aging and finding ways to prevent debilitating decline.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

CBD, a natural compound from the hemp plant that does not produce a "high," has exploded in use for canines in the United States even though it is not specifically approved for dogs by the Food and Drug Administration. According to one prominent market research firm, the pet CBD market is expected to reach $1.7 billion by 2030.

Many pet owners swear by CBD's perceived ability to relieve arthritic pain, fight cancer and treat seizures in dogs -- similar to many of the claimed medical benefits for CBD in humans. Previous research about its effects on dogs suggests its use is safe and is associated with significant improvement in pain relief and quality of life.

CBD's usefulness in calming anxious, aggressive dogs -- a key claim made by many CBD product makers -- has remained anecdotal, with no controlled studies yet demonstrating it to be particularly effective in that way.

However, researchers now claim their deep dive into the mountains of information collected by the Dog Aging Project links CBD use over time with reduced aggressive behavior.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Scientists looked at data entered about 47,355 dogs between 2019 and 2023, in which owners reported how often they gave their dogs CBD or hemp supplements. They determined that after prolonged use, dogs receiving supplements were reported to have below-average aggression levels compared with dogs with no CBD use.

This "could point to a direct effect," the authors wrote.

But at the same time, they found that related behaviors, such as agitation or anxiety, did not produce similar correlation with CBD use. Study co-author Dr. Julie Albright, an associate professor of veterinary medicine at the University of Tennessee, said it's not immediately apparent why that is.

"Most canine aggression is related to underlying stress or anxiety, the 'fight or flight response,' and it is not entirely clear why only aggression and not other types of anxious or agitated behaviors seemed to be improved with CBD treatment in this study," she told UPI.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"We could find that CBD preferentially affects neural circuits related to the 'fight' versus 'flight' of the threat or stress response pathway. The survey study design did not allow for detailed responses about the CBD use from the dog owners."

One of the study's drawbacks is that researchers didn't have any information about which CBD products were used or how much the dogs were dosed, and there was also an incomplete picture about larger behavioral treatment plans.

"For example," Albright said, "the risk that aggressive dogs pose may have prompted their owners to implement many therapeutic techniques, such as professional behavior modification and strong avoidance of triggers, compared to owners of dogs displaying fear without aggression.

"This multimodal treatment approach may have contributed to better outcomes for aggressive dogs compared to the other types of non-aggressive behavior problems."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

However, she also noted that other prospective clinical studies have demonstrated that CBD can be effective in reducing behaviors that signal fear and anxiety in dogs experiencing distress in certain situations, such as car rides or environments with loud noises.

"Now that we have this data, it is important to dig deeper with additional prospective studies," she added.

Meanwhile, the paper also found that dogs that received CBD were more likely to live in states in which medical cannabis is legalized for humans, highlighting the "humanization" of pets and how owners make decisions about CBD use.

This demonstrates how "we humans view medical cannabis and cannabidiol as beneficial to humans and dogs alike," said co-author Maxwell C. K. Leung, an assistant professor of pharmacology and toxicology and cannabis researcher at Arizona State University.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Medical cannabis is used for a number of human health conditions, such as osteoarthritis and epilepsy," he said. "Dogs also have similar health conditions, and we give CBD to our animals for the same reasons. I think this is an example of how we treat our companion animals as members of our family."

The study's results don't come as a surprise to Bill Bookout, president and chairman of the National Animal Supplement Council, a trade association that represents manufacturers and suppliers of health and nutritional supplements for dogs, cats and horses.

He told UPI it lines up with related research on CBD sponsored by his group indicating hemp-derived cannabinoids are well-tolerated in healthy dogs at recommended dosage levels.

"I think one of the primary reasons that CBD is used is for dogs is for behavioral issues, whether it's separation anxiety or fear-based aggression or something similar, so it's certainly not a stretch for me to believe that CBD could be beneficial for any cognitive issues or for calming purposes, ultimately resulting in the perception that the dogs are less aggressive after a couple years," he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The fact that sales of CBD supplements continue to grow is a good indication they're working for pet owners, Bookout added, pointing out that pet supplements are a "fast-follow" industry in which advances in human health are quickly followed by adapted uses for animals.

"But since there's really no 'placebo effect' with animals, users will judge these products as either 'they work' or 'they don't,' and typically, 99% of the time, if an animal doesn't respond to the product as the owner expects them to, they're not going to buy it again.

"'Calming' is a big category for these types of products so that's why I say, just based on the number of companies that have calming products with CBD .... if people did not see the changes that they expected in the animals, we wouldn't see sales of those products categorically develop, maintain and even increase as they have," he said.

Another veterinarian who has researched the connections between dog behavior and CBD said the study's conclusions are "interesting" but also issued a note of caution.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Dr. Joseph Wakshlag, a professor at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, told UPI its results "should be taken with a grain of salt. as it's not direct treatment comparisons and there is little prospective randomized controlled clinical evidence that this is truly an outcome of CBD administration."

But, he added, "evidence is accumulating that CBD products can have some behavioral modifying or stress relieving properties and is surely an exciting area of investigation."
President Donald Trump lashed out at a reporter, calling her a stupid person on Thursday after she asked him a question about the vetting of the suspect in the shooting of two National Guardsmen in Washington, D.C.

During a press conference about the shooting of two National Guardsmen by a suspected Afghan national, the reporter noted, U.S. officials say that the suspect worked very closely with the CIA in Afghanistan for years, that he was vetted and the vetting came up clean.

He went cuckoo. I mean, he went nuts, responded Trump. It happens too often with these people. You see them. But look, this is how they come in, theyre standing on top of each other. Thats an airplane. There was no vetting or anything. They came in unvetted and we have a lot of others in this country and were going to get them out.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The reporter then questioned, Actually, your DOJ IG just reported this year that there was thorough vetting by DHS and by the FBI of these Afghans who were brought into the U.S., so why do you blame the Biden administration for what this man did?

Because they let them in. Are you stupid? Are you a stupid person? snapped Trump. Because they came in on a plane along with thousands of other people that shouldnt be here and youre just asking questions because youre a stupid person.

He continued:

And theres a law passed that its almost impossible to get them out. You cant get them out once they come in, and they came in and they were unvetted, they were unchecked, there were many of them, and they came in on big planes and it was disgraceful. And if you look, youll see there was a law passed that makes it almost impossible not to let them in, not to certify them, so to speak, once they come in, and they came in and they shouldnt have come in, and frankly the whole thing was a mess. The whole Afghanistan situation was a mess. It shouldve never taken place. If were going to go out, and we wouldve gone out because I had everybody ready to go, we were gonna go out with strength and dignity and precision, and we wouldve left from Bagram, and we wouldve kept Bagram by the way.

The president announced the death of 20-year-old National Guardsman Sarah Beckstrom on Thursday evening, one day after she was shot by a suspected gunman who is believed to be an Afghan national.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

24-year-old Guardsman Andrew Wolfe was also shot during the attack and remains critically injured.

Watch above via NewsNation.

The post Youre a Stupid Person! Trump Lashes Out at Reporter For Asking About Vetting of Suspected Afghan Shooter first appeared on Mediaite.
President Donald Trump called a reporter a "stupid person" during an exchange on Thanksgiving.

Taking questions from the press after a call with service members, Trump was discussing the Nov. 26 shooting of two National Guard members near the White House. The suspect has been identified as an Afghan national who came to the U.S. in 2021, and Homeland Security has said it would review all asylum cases approved under the Biden administration.

"Your DOJ IG just reported this year that there was thorough vetting by DHS and by the FBI of these Afghans who were brought into the U.S., so why do you blame the Biden administration?" CBS News' Nancy Cordes asked Trump in Florida, saying the suspect had been vetted and "came up clean."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Because they let him in, are you stupid? Are you a stupid person?" Trump responded. "Because they came in on a plane along with thousands of other people that shouldn't be here and you're just asking questions 'cause you're a stupid person."

National Guard shooting updates: Murder charge against Afghan suspect

Exchange on DC shooting follows 'quiet piggy' comment

Trump's exchanges with reporters have been getting extra attention since he told a reporter on Air Force One, "quiet piggy," as she asked a follow-up question about the Jeffrey Epstein files on Nov. 14.

The suspected gunman in the shooting of the National Guard troops previously worked with the U.S. military and CIA-backed forces in Afghanistan. Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, came to the U.S. under "Operation Allies Welcome," a refugee program that sought to evacuate vulnerable Afghans who cooperated with U.S. forces during the war.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

One of the victims, U.S. Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, died on Nov. 27. The other victim, U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, was still in critical condition as of Nov. 27, according to Trump.

Lakanwal was shot shortly after the attack and is hospitalized in serious condition. He is expected to face an upgraded charge of first-degree murder after one of the victims and the FBI is investigating the incident as an act of terrorism.

The Trump administration also suspended immigration requests relating to Afghan nationals and said it would re-examine green card holders from 19 countries it deemed "high-risk."

Contributing: Thao Nguyen, Doyle Rice, Bart Jansen, Francesca Chambers, Phillip M. Bailey, USA TODAY

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

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: Trump calls reporter stupid in Thanksgiving exchange on DC shooting
WASHINGTON (AP)  Charges against the man accused of shooting two National Guard members have been upgraded to first-degree murder after one of the soldiers died, the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia announced Friday, while investigators continued to seek a motive.

Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, were hospitalized in critical condition after the Wednesday afternoon shooting near the White House. President Donald Trump announced Thursday evening that Beckstrom had died.

U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirros office said the charges against Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national who worked with the CIA during the Afghanistan War, now include one count of first-degree murder and two counts of assault with intent to kill while armed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Trump administration said Friday it is halting all asylum decisions and has also paused issuing visas for people traveling on Afghan passports.

Beckstrom and Wolfe were deployed with the West Virginia National Guard as part of Trumps crime-fighting mission that federalized the D.C. police force. The president also has deployed or tried to deploy National Guard members to other cities to assist with his mass deportation efforts but has faced court challenges.

Asylum decisions halted

Trump called the shooting a terrorist attack and criticized the Biden administration for enabling Afghans who worked with U.S. forces during the Afghanistan War to enter the U.S. The president has said he wants to permanently pause migration from poorer nations and expel millions of immigrants from the country.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Joseph Edlow, said in a post on the social platform X that asylum decisions will be paused until we can ensure that every alien is vetted and screened to the maximum degree possible.

Experts say the U.S. has rigorous vetting systems for asylum-seekers. Asylum claims made from inside the country through USCIS have long faced backlogs. Critics say the slow down has been exacerbated during the Trump administration.

In an interview on Fox News, Pirro said there are many charges to come beyond the upgraded murder charge. She said her heart goes out to the family of Beckstrom, who volunteered to serve and ended up being shot ambush-style on the cold streets of Washington, D.C."

Pirro said officials have been working around the clock to determine the suspect's motive. Investigators are executing warrants in the state of Washington, where Lakanwal lived, and other parts of the country.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth visited National Guard troops in the nations capital Friday and led them in a prayer for Beckstrom and Wolfe.

Some of you may have known her, Hegseth said of Beckstrom. Obviously a beautiful human being and a great American willing to serve her country brutally targeted.

Hegseth said he and his wife briefly visited Wolfe on Thursday night to be there, lay hands on him, pray over him.

Wolfe remains in very critical condition, West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey said Friday. He ordered state flags to be flown at half-staff in recognition of Beckstroms death.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lakanwal entered the US in 2021

Lakanwal has been living in Bellingham, Washington, about 80 miles (130 kilometers) north of Seattle, with his wife and five children, said his former landlord, Kristina Widman.

Mohammad Sherzad, a neighbor of Lakanwals, told the AP in a phone interview Friday that Lakanwal was polite, quiet and spoke very little English.

Sherzad said he attended the same mosque as Lakanwal and had heard from other members that Lakanwal was struggling to find work. Some of his children attended the same school as Lakanwals children, Sherzad said.

He was so quiet and the kids were so polite, they were so playful. But we didnt see anything bad about him, Sherzad said. Sherzad said Lakanwal disappeared about two weeks ago.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lakanwal had briefly worked as an independent contractor for Amazon Flex, which allows people to use their own cars to deliver packages, a company spokesperson shared with The Associated Press. Lakanwal delivered packages from the end of July to the end of August and hadnt been active since.

Lakanwal entered the U.S. in 2021 through Operation Allies Welcome, a Biden administration program that resettled Afghans after the U.S. withdrawal from the country, officials said. Lakanwal applied for asylum during the Biden administration, but his asylum was approved under the Trump administration, #AfghanEvac said in a statement.

In a Thanksgiving address to the troops Thursday, Trump said that Lakanwal went cuckoo. I mean, he went nuts.

Lakanwal served in a CIA-backed Afghan Army unit, known as one of the special Zero Units, in the southern province of Kandahar, according to a resident of the eastern Afghan province of Khost who identified himself as Lakanwals cousin. He said Lakanwal was originally from the province and that his brother had worked in the unit as well.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The cousin spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals. He said Lakanwal had started out working as a security guard for the unit in 2012 and was later promoted to become a team leader and a GPS specialist.

Zero Units were paramilitary units manned by Afghans but backed by the CIA that also served in front-line fighting with CIA paramilitary officers. Activists had attributed abuses to the units. They played a key role in the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from the country, providing security around Kabul International Airport as the Americans withdrew from the country.

On Wednesday night, Trump called for the reinvestigation of all Afghan refugees who had entered under the Biden administration initiative that brought roughly 76,000 people to the country, many of whom had worked as interpreters and translators.

The program has faced intense scrutiny from Trump and others over allegations of gaps in the vetting process, even as advocates say there was extensive vetting and the program offered a lifeline to people at risk of Taliban reprisals.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Beckstrom exemplified leadership, dedication, and professionalism

Beckstrom had enlisted in 2023, the same year she graduated high school, and served with distinction as a military police officer with the 863rd Military Police Company, the West Virginia National Guard said in a statement.

She exemplified leadership, dedication, and professionalism, the statement said, adding that Beckstrom volunteered to serve as part of Operation D.C. Safe and Beautiful, helping to ensure the safety and security of our nations capital.

The president called Beckstrom an incredible person, outstanding in every single way.

___

Associated Press journalists Sarah Brumfield, Siddiqullah Alizai, Elena Becatoros, Randy Herschaft, Cedar Attanasio and Hallie Golden contributed to this report.
KIEV, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Friday that the head of his office Andriy Yermak has submitted a letter of resignation.

"I want there to be no questions about Ukraine. Therefore, the following internal decisions are being made today: first -- the presidential office will be rebooted. The head of the office, Andriy Yermak, has submitted his resignation," Zelensky said in a video address.

Earlier in the day, anti-corruption authorities conducted searches in Yermak's home as part of an investigation, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau said, without giving further details.

Zelensky thanked Yermak, saying that Ukraine's negotiating position had always been presented properly and had always been a patriotic one.

Last week, Yermak was appointed as head of the Ukrainian delegation for talks with the United States, Russia and other relevant parties. 
Washington, DC  A man who allegedly attacked two National Guard members in the United States capital has been charged with murder after one of his victims died from her wounds.

The updated charges were announced on Friday by Jeanine Pirro, the US attorney for Washington, DC.

They came two days after Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, shot West Virginia National Guard members Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and Andrew Wolfe, 24, just blocks from the White House.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Late Thursday, US President Donald Trump announced that Beckstrom, who had been deployed to the capital as part of what the president has framed as an anti-crime drive, had died of her wounds.

Pirro made the announcement on the Fox and Friends TV programme, a day after she said that Washington state resident Lakanwal would face three counts of assault with intent to kill while armed and three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence.

Lakanwal will now be charged with murder in the first degree, she said on Friday.

There are certainly many more charges to come, but we are upgrading the initial charges from assault to murder in the first degree.





Attorney General Pam Bondi had previously said she would seek the death penalty if either of the soldiers died from the attack. The FBI has said it is investigating the attack as terrorism.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Friday, National Guard member Wolfe remained in critical condition.

Collective punishment

The upgraded charges come shortly after the Trump administration promised a widespread crackdown on immigration in the wake of the attack, as well as a revetting of immigrants already in the US.

Advocacy groups have decried the actions as collective punishment.

In a social media post on Thursday night, Trump said he would permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries, expanding a previous move to stop all immigration requests relating to Afghan nationals.

Trump further pledged to remove anyone who is not a net asset to the United States, or is incapable of loving our Country.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The administration had already said it would re-vet refugees and asylum seekers admitted into the US under former President Joe Biden, with the director of the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) saying on Thursday that it would conduct a full-scale, rigorous reexamination of every Green Card for every alien from every country of concern.

The policy changes come as more details about the alleged attacker, Lakanwal, have emerged.

Trump administration officials have repeatedly blamed the shooting on lax vetting policies during Bidens Operation Afghans Welcome, in which tens of thousands of Afghans were relocated to the US following the withdrawal of Western forces from the country.

US media has reported that Lakanwal was a member of an Afghan force that worked alongside the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in Afghanistan, dubbed the zero unit.





A friend told The New York Times that Lakanwal had suffered mental health issues related to the units conduct, which Human Rights Watch has said included extrajudicial and civilian killings, among other abuses.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A government report viewed by the Reuters news agency showed that Lakanawal had applied for asylum in December 2024.

However, the case was approved in April, months after Trump took office for a second term, with officials noting his work alongside the US in Afghanistan. They found no disqualifying information at the time.

Advocates have said the Trump administration is using the attack to further supercharge a crackdown on immigration.

That crackdown, critics say, has targeted legal immigrants and vulnerable populations, including refugees who have sought sanctuary from persecution.

Responding to the ban on Afghan immigration processing on Thursday, the San Francisco Bay Area chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) said collective punishment is never justified.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

People fleeing violence, persecution, and instability deserve protection and due process  not to be vilified for the alleged acts of one person, the group said.

The Afghan-American Foundation called on elected leaders and media to respond responsibly.

Follow the facts, resist fear, and ensure that this tragedy is not used to divide communities or break apart the ties that bind us, it said in a statement.
Personnel from the IDF, Israel Police and Shin Bet confiscated tens of thousands of shekels to be used in terror funding, dozens of weapons, and arrested scores of suspects.

The IDF arrested more than 40 terrorists, killed three terrorists, and seized dozens of weapons from across the West Bank, the military announced on Friday.

The operations, carried out by the IDF, Israel Police, and the Shin Bet, saw hundreds of structures searched. During the efforts, the combined forces uncovered dozens of kilograms of potassium intended for the production of explosives, the military shared while announcing the seizures.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In the Tammoun area, the forces found tens of thousands of shekels, which were reportedly used for terrorist activity. During a search of the Tammoun area, the Menashe Brigade killed three terrorists.

IDF searches West Bank for threats to state security

While the combined forces operated throughout the West Bank, combat helicopters provided aerial support to combat threats.

IDF arrests more than 40 suspects and locates dozens of weapons in West Bank raids over the past week (IDF SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT)

The Shomron Brigade operated in several villages, arresting around 18 terrorists. The soldiers also located and seized weapons, including five handguns and two additional M16 rifles.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Yehuda Brigade also conducted dozens of raids, arrested 12 Hamas terrorists, and located and seized five lathes used to manufacture weapons in Hebron.

The Ephraim Brigade conducted a nighttime raid in the village of Azzun, where dozens of suspects were interrogated, and weapons were seized. At the same time, in other villages in the Tulkarm area, nine wanted arms dealers were arrested.

Military personnel from the Etzion and Binyamin brigades operated in the village of Beit Umar, where they seized an M16 rifle. During the operation, a terrorist who planned an attack against Israeli forces was arrested, and three additional wanted individuals were arrested in the villages of Biddu, Beit Iksa, and Kafr Aqab.
At least 13 people have been killed in an Israeli raid on a village in southern Syria overnight, state media reported, in one of the deadliest incidents of its kind for months. It said children were among the dead.

Sana news agency said residents of Beit Jinn "confronted" Israeli troops, leading to a firefight. Air strikes were also carried out. Syria's foreign ministry condemned what it called a "war crime" by Israel.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said troops went into the village, on the edge of the occupied Golan Heights, to detain militants who it said "advanced terror attacks against Israeli civilians".

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Six Israeli soldiers were injured in the clashes, three seriously, it said.

The IDF said it targeted the Jamaa Islamiya militant group in Friday's operation. It said that when the raid began, "several armed terrorists opened fire" on its soldiers, who fired back.

Sana said the village was also shelled. Footage released by the IDF shows two air strikes - one apparently on a group of people, and the other on a building. In bodycam footage also released by the IDF, soldiers can be seen firing on a street in the dark with the sound of automatic gunfire in the distance.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), a UK-based monitoring group, said a building collapsed during the operation.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The IDF later said "all of the suspects were apprehended, and a number of terrorists were eliminated".

Sana said three people were arrested by the troops before they withdrew.

Israel said it targeted militants, although Syria said women and children were among the dead [Reuters]

Sana quoted the director of a local hospital as saying it had received bodies, including five from one family. The director said dozens of people had also been injured in the incident.

The Syrian foreign ministry said more than 10 civilians had been killed, including women and children. It accused Israel of committing a "fully-fledged war crime", and called on the UN Security Council to do something to stop Israel's "policy of aggression".

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Israel regularly carries out incursions into Syrian villages, saying it acts to prevent the presence of armed groups.

Since the fall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad nearly a year ago, Israel has moved its forces across a buffer zone on the Golan Heights into southern Syria, where a number of anti-Israel groups and cells operate.

Israel says it will not allow the Syrian army, which it considers a threat, to deploy there.

The buffer zone - a demilitarised stretch of land - had been a no-go area designed to keep the peace after a ceasefire ended the 1973 war between Israel and Syria. The UN has said the IDF's deployment there was a "violation" of the agreement which it said both sides should uphold.

The US has for months been mediating talks between Israel and Syria for a security agreement in the area between the two sides, but without success.
The soldiers opened fire on the terrorist, killing him.

A terrorist threw explosives towards IDF soldiers conducting a counterterrorism operation in the Kabatiya area, near Jenin in the northern West Bank, on Wednesday, the military confirmed.

The soldiers responded by opening fire on the terrorist, killing him.

An altered fire extinguisher used by a West Bank terrorist to make an explosive device, November 26, 2025. (credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT)

After the incident, the IDF soldiers searched the terrorist's vehicle and found several additional explosives, which the soldiers then disabled and dismantled, the military added.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The IDF is mobilizing additional soldiers to the area around Tubas, in the northern West Bank, as part of ongoing counterterrorism operations, the military's Central Command added later on Wednesday night.

IDF, Shin Bet, Border Police conducting ongoing counterterrorism operations in West Bank

The IDF, Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency), and Border Police officers began conducting a broad counterterrorism operation in the northern West Bank, a joint IDF-Shin Bet statement said on Wednesday morning.

The IDF and Shin Bet will not allow terrorism to take root in the area and are acting proactively to thwart it, the agencies stated.

The announcement follows days of heightened Israeli security activity in the West Bank, particularly in the northern area.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In another incident, the IDF killed Sultan al-Ghani, the terrorist responsible for the 2024 murder of Gideon Perry, near Jenin in the northern West Bank, the IDF and Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) said in a statement on Tuesday.

Sam Halpern, Fraidy Moser, Amir Bohbot, and Jerusalem Post Staff contributed to this report.
SAN ANTONIO  When Immigration and Customs Enforcement came calling on Dallas Police Chief Daniel Comeaux months ago to ask his officers to assist in supporting President Donald Trumps sweeping immigration enforcement operations, the chief of police in the third-largest city in this very red state said no.

On the other hand, in Texas largest city, Houston Mayor John Whitmire, a Democrat, has been under fire from residents and officials since he was quoted in the Houston Chronicle acknowledging some cooperation with ICE. The police department there has no formal agreement with the agency, but calls from the citys police force to ICE, mostly as result of traffic stops, have risen 1000% since President Donald Trump was re-elected, the Houston Chronicle reported based on public records.

The approaches in Dallas and Houston show the quandary some police departments face as they weigh their cities public safety priorities against the Trump administrations pressures to multiply its enforcement forces. Texas largest cities, where the majority of its Black and Hispanic populations are concentrated, face a tough choice: partner with ICE and risk blowback from their own communities or take a pass and risk seeing the administration send ICE, Border Patrol or National Guard troops to their cities. Chicago, Los Angeles and Charlotte, North Carolina, chose the latter option, only to see federal immigration enforcement arrive on their streets.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Texas Republican lawmakers and the governor have generally sided with helping the Trump administration by passing laws that require cooperation. Sheriffs offices in Texas counties with populations of more than 100,000 are required by law to sign an agreement with ICE by December 2026. Texas Department of Public Safety, which includes highway troopers, has also signed an agreement with ICE.

Sheriffs offices and other law enforcement departments around the country, including in cities like Las Vegas and Miami, are signing up with unprecedented speed to a decades-old program to partner with ICE, according to the Migration Policy Institute, an immigration think tank that has surveyed departments about the partnerships over the years.

A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security said in a statement: ICE is not only supercharging our hiring, we are also multiplying partnerships with state and local law enforcement to remove the worst of the worst including murderers, gang members, rapists, terrorists, and pedophiles from our country. ... We encourage all state and local law enforcement agencies to become a 287(g) partner and join us in the fight to make America safe again.

Nonetheless, none of the police departments of the top 10 U.S. cities, which include Houston, Dallas and San Antonio, have signed on as partners with ICE, according to a list the agency posts on its website.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In many cases, not cooperating comes with turning down money that is being offered to local and state law enforcement agencies as an incentive, said Muzaffar Chishti, who directs the New York office of the Migration Policy Institute.

What has added a whole new wrinkle to this is money, which has placed more and more pressure on ICE officers and these 287(g) officers to arrest and detain more people, he said. The 287(g) program, whose use has ebbed and flowed under different administrations, gives immigration enforcement powers to state and local law enforcement agencies.

DHS said its program includes reimbursements for each 287(g)-trained officers annual salary and benefits, as well as a percentage of their overtime. Local law enforcement agencies would also be eligible for quarterly monetary performance awards.

Comeaux said ICE had offered Dallas up to $25 million in reimbursement for partnering with it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But he decided, and a joint City Council committee affirmed in a Nov. 6 meeting, that pulling police officers from their current duties and putting them on immigration enforcement arrests would be detrimental to what so far is a trend of lower homicide rates, lower violent crime, fewer traffic deaths and improved police response times, according to Comeaux. The committee voted against partnering.

It will not make Dallas any safer, because we are aggressively going after those who are committing violent crimes already, Comeaux said at the time, so this program would not help us in any kind of way.

In a statement, Comeaux repeated that he turned down an offer of $25 million from ICE because it would not have covered overtime costs and officers would be reassigned under federal oversight, which could negatively affect response times and erode public trust.

Although the Dallas Police Department does not partner with ICE, the Dallas County Sheriffs Office does notify it about immigrants in its custody who may have immigration violations. An ICE field office in Dallas that serves North Texas and Oklahoma was the site of a shooting in September, in which two people who were detained were killed and a third was wounded.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Things have been less clear in Houston, where Whitmire, the mayor, has come under fire locally following his statement about cooperating with ICE. In March, Houston officers were directed to contact immigration authorities when they encountered anyone with a deportation order ICE listed in a national database. Whitmire sought to clarify his comments amid uproar in the city, which has a high immigrant population.

We are the Houston Police Department. We enforce state and city laws, not immigration, not ICE, Whitmire said at a Nov. 12 City Council meeting.

The department has had to defend its calls to ICE, including one in April when it alerted ICE about a woman from El Salvador after she had dialed 911 to report domestic abuse.

The Houston Police Department said in a statement that it does not ask about immigration status but that officers are required to contact the issuing agency when they encounter a person with a warrant. After verifying the warrant with ICE, the officer detains the individual and transfers custody to an ICE agent.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Whitmires office said in a statement that while immigration matters fall under federal jurisdiction, anyone who breaks the law in the City of Houston will be held accountable. When police encounter an individual with an outstanding warrant from another law enforcement agency, they are required to notify that agency.

ICE has added hundreds of thousands of administrative warrants  which are for civil violations and are not signed by judges  to the National Crime Information Center database, which police officers use to check for warrants when they pull someone over for a traffic stop.

The president of the Houston Police Officers Union, Douglas Griffith, told NPR that the warrants are showing up in the database and that if they pop up with a warrant, then we have no alternative but to take those people into custody.

But ICE officials who spoke at the Dallas City Council committee meeting this month said assisting the agency with immigration enforcement would be a benefit.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its good for the city, because you definitely have some individuals that fall through the cracks, an ICE official who identified himself only as an assistant Dallas field office director named Francis said at the meeting. For example, he said, a person released on traffic citations could have been previously deported, re-entered the country illegally and possibly committed offenses.

He also pointed to the arrest by a police officer with 287(g) training in Oklahoma of a foreign-born person who had been flagged by Interpol.

But Comeaux, a former special agent in charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration Houston office, told council members he rejected joining the 287(g) program because the most important thing right now for us to keep everyone safe and keep the community believing in their police department, that its doing the very best to serve them every single day.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Tampa General Hospital (TGH) and USF Health have become part of the CareSource Military and Veterans (CSMV) network, extending TRICARE Prime Demo Tampa healthcare services to the military community in the US.

This partnership aims to provide eligible beneficiaries in Florida's Tampa region, including military retirees and their families, survivors, and active-duty family members, access to extensive healthcare coverage under the TRICARE Prime Demo by CSMV.

Through this collaboration, TRICARE Prime Demo by CSMV beneficiaries in Tampa can receive the same level of comprehensive coverage as the existing TRICARE plan.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

CSMV stated that additional benefits listed include no enrolment fees for the first year, no referrals required for network providers, and access to a CareSource nurse advice line.

The partnership ensures TRICARE Prime Demo patients have access to a wide range of clinical services, including neurology, neurosurgery, cardiology, dermatology, behavioural health, and urology, provided by specialists at the University of South Florida and TGH.

Existing TRICARE patients who opt for the demo will continue to receive care from their current providers, while new patients can benefit from these expanded services.

TGH operates a Military and Veteran Primary Care Center, focusing on healthcare tailored to the unique needs of the military and veteran population.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

USF Health supports the military community through its Office of Military Medical Innovation & Research, which utilises research and multidisciplinary clinical expertise to drive advancements in medical care for service members and their families.

Tampa General Medical Group's medical director primary care Yamil Miranda-Usua said: The Military and Veterans Primary Care Center at Tampa General Hospital exists to give veterans and military families the coordinated and dependable care they should be able to count on every day.

Our partnership with CareSource helps us carry that mission further and strengthens access, improves continuity and supports the level of attention this community has earned through service and sacrifice. We're grateful to move this forward together.

Earlier this year, TGH, Lifepoint Health and the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine announced the opening of the TGH Behavioral Health Hospital in Florida.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"TGH and USF Health join CSMV to expand military healthcare services" was originally created and published by Hospital Management, a GlobalData owned brand.




The warden's office building at the South Dakota State Penitentiary in Sioux Falls. (Photo by John Hult/South Dakota Searchlight)

The state Division of Criminal Investigation will lead an inquiry into the eighth suspected fatal overdose in South Dakotas prison system this year.

The state Department of Corrections announced the Thanksgiving night death of 37-year-old Larry Thomas Dukes Franklin on Friday. Franklin was incarcerated at the South Dakota State Penitentiarys maximum security Jameson Annex in Sioux Falls.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

DCI spokesman Tony Mangan confirmed that the agency is investigating the situation as a suspected overdose.

Franklins death is the fourth this month in the states prison system. Overdoses are suspected in two of the other November deaths, of 33-year-old Travis Long Fox at the penitentiary, and 46-year-old Timothy Tyree at Mike Durfee State Prison in Springfield.

Shane Ostercamp, 44, also died in November. He died in a comfort care setting in Springfield.

Five other inmates died of suspected or confirmed overdoses this year before November, all but one from a synthetic drug known as K2 or spice.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Attorney General Marty Jackley has indicted a handful of people in and outside the prison system for drug distribution, including one former corrections officer. Of the eight total suspected overdose deaths this year, four occurred after Jackley announced the most recent round of charges in mid-September. One of the deaths occured less than a week after the press conference announcing them.

Twenty-two men have now died in Department of Corrections custody in calendar year 2025, the highest figure in recent memory. In addition to the drug deaths, four died by suicide and others died of natural causes.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
(FOX40.COM)  An investigation is underway after nearly 50 vehicles were broken into at a Northern California lodge on Thanksgiving morning.

-Video Above: Most commonly reported crimes in the U.S.

Around 7:30 a.m., the Manteca Police Department responded to the Great Wolf Lodge at 2500 Daniel Street for reports of vehicle burglaries in the parking lot. When officers arrived at the scene, they found 48 vehicles burglarized. Police said thieves gained entry to the vehicles by breaking the windows.

Thieves target nearly 50 vehicles at Northern California lodge, guns and valueables stolen on Thanksgiving

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to MPD, electronic items, miscellaneous toiletry items, and at least one firearm were stolen. Manteca Great Wolf Lodge reportedly has gates to enter the parking lot, which require pulling a ticket to get into their parking area. Additionally, they usually have security and surveillance video. However, it is unclear if security was in the parking lot at the time of the burglaries or if cameras captured the crimes. Police said the lodge has not released video footage to them yet.

MPD said the incident remains under investigation, and anyone with information can call the department at 209-456-8101. Officers also advised people not to leave valuables in their vehicles, especially during the holiday season, when people believe that presents and other high-value items may be in them.

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.
Philanthropist MacKenzie Scotts string of gifts to Oklahoma higher-education institutions has continued with an $8 million gift to a tribal college.

The College of the Muscogee Nation announced Scotts gift on its Facebook page on Friday, Nov. 28. Its the third major gift Scott has made in Oklahoma in eight days. The ex-wife of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos gave $17 million to Northern Oklahoma College in Tonkawa and Enid, then did the same to Northeastern State University in Tahlequah earlier this week.

The College of the Muscogee Nation, located in Okmulgee, said the $8 million is coming from Yield Giving, an organization established by Scott that describes its purpose as being to share a financial fortune created through the effort of countless people.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The college said the gift would be used to secure financial investments for future students and extend our educational legacy of the Muscogee Nation. This gift will also support our continued efforts to empower students, strengthen academic programs, and expand pathways to educational and cultural advancement. We extend our sincere appreciation to Yield Giving and MacKenzie Scott for their investment in our vision and our community.

The college began offering classes in 2004 and gained status as a land-grant institution in 2014. According to its website, it offers associates degrees in gaming, tribal services, criminal justice, natural resources and Native American Studies with an emphasis in the Mvskoke language or Mvskoke studies.

Scott pledged in 2019 to give away most of her wealth, which Bloomberg estimates to be about $39.9 billion. Since mid-October, shes given about $800 million to more than a dozen colleges and universities, including Northern, Northeastern State and College of the Muscogee Nation.

Most of her recent spate of giving has focused on Historically Black Colleges or Universities (HBCUs) and tribal colleges. In addition to the Muscogee Nation college, Scott has given $10 million to the College of the Menominee Nation in Wisconsin and $5 million to Little Priest Tribal College in Nebraska.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Nationwide, there are 38 tribal colleges, according to the College of the Muscogee Nation website.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: The College of the Muscogee Nation receives $8M from MacKenzie Scott
Nov. 28A quantity of spilled mercury at three Libby residences this week brought a strong response from the Environmental Protection Agency.

Eric Sandusky, the Federal On-Scene Coordinator for the EPA's Response Section Superfund and Emergency Management Division, spoke to The Western News Tuesday afternoon about the exposure and what is being done.

"Saturday night we got a call about a possible exposure and we arrived Sunday to begin working to screen the properties," Sandusky said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Officials used a mercury vapor analyzer to determine the levels in the homes before formulating a plan to clean up the substance.

There will be a public meeting with the EPA and Lincoln County Health Department at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, at the Ponderosa Room, Libby City Hall, 952 E. Spruce St.

The online version is available in a Microsoft Teams (Meeting ID: 257 907 959 683 07, Passcode: nJ6NJ3zk) or by phone: 1-406-247-0520, phone conference ID: 573 816 967#.

The incident occurred sometime in late October 2025 when the resident's child's friend brought a fruit cup filled with mercury to the home, according to EPA officials. The mercury was taken from the friend's grandparent's collection. The mercury was spilled onto a rug in the child's room and played with before the friend returned home. At that point, the resident child rolled the mercury beads into the rug and placed the rug under the bed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Then, the child developed symptoms that were initially diagnosed as Scarlet Fever by medical professionals. Family pets exhibited similar symptoms. On Friday, Nov. 21, 2025, a house cleaner discovered and collected mercury beads under furniture in the child's room, prompting the parent to alert a physician. The family was then relocated to a local hotel.

According to EPA Community Involvement Coordinator Beth Archer, a washing machine at a third location had mercury contamination.

"The bulk of the contamination was at the first two locations on Spencer Road," Archer said. "The spill occurred in late October and the EPA was notified Saturday, Nov. 22. After the initial discovery of the contamination at the first two properties, seven property owners asked to be screened and that's when the third contamination was discovered."

A school bus and the elementary school are also going to be screened.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Archer said a child has suffered serious health effects and is being treated for it. She also said officials are not seeing widespread contamination.

The EPA will follow up with mercury screening of all locations related to this incident using the Lumex MVA. The agency will contact local public health officials to inform them of the situation and seek additional support, if necessary.

The EPA screened homes the children may have visited and did not see elevated concentrations of mercury throughout those homes. One home had elevated concentrations in a washing machine. At this time it appears the spread of mercury throughout the community is limited.

Archer said the contaminated materials that are found will be taken with officials when cleanup work is finished. She also said mercury pickups are also available at any Lincoln County landfill, including the following:  Libby Landfill, Monday  Saturday, 8 a.m.  5 p.m.  Troy Landfill, Monday  Saturday, 10 a.m.  6 p.m.  Eureka Landfill, Monday  Fri 8 a.m.  5:30 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m.  5 p.m.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A local meeting is being planned next Tuesday or Wednesday at Libby City Hall's Ponderosa Room. More information will be released when the date and time is known. A mercury take back event is also planned, but a date hasn't been set.

The EPA also has a response website at https://response.epa.gov/SpencerRoadMercury. It provides information on ongoing response actions, emergency procedures and technical resources for responders.

Two of the three residences were evacuated.

"It wasn't mandatory, but both families exited their homes," Sandusky said. "We're not sure how long the cleanup will take. We have one team working on one residence and another on the way after we found out about the second home."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Sandusky said the mercury was elemental, or metallic, and it was typically used for hobby mining. When asked if such a substance could be used in the manufacture of dangerous drugs, Sandusky said he hadn't heard that it could be used for such an endeavor.

The Libby Creek Recreational Gold Panning Area is still a popular area for those wishing to try their hand at discovering a bit of gold dust or a tiny nugget. Located 23 miles south of Libby, the land surrounding the Libby Creek area has been of interest to prospectors since the early 1860s, when it was home to up to 600 miners working at a camp known as Libbysville.

By 1876, only one miner was reported to be working the creek, but a second gold rush in 1885 brought another wave of miners to a new camp known as Lake City or Oldtown. A store in the mining camp was supplied by a packstring that brought supplies via a trail from Thompson Falls. Mining on the creek hit its peak from 1889 to 1909. The current gold panning area was acquired through a land exchange in 1987 and opened to the public the following year.

At the contaminated residence, cleanup crews were already on site, including from Salt Lake City, Denver, Arizona and Missouri.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"We worked with the families to see what was contaminated and what was not," Sandusky said.

He also said the agency wants to do a local mercury take back event at some point in an effort to prevent another exposure and possible illnesses.

According to a EPA fact sheet about elemental mercury, it was historically referred to as quicksilver. When dropped, elemental mercury breaks into smaller droplets which can go through small cracks or become strongly attached to certain materials.

At room temperature, exposed elemental mercury can evaporate to become an invisible, odorless toxic vapor. If heated, it is a colorless, odorless gas.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

According to the EPA, metallic mercury mainly causes health effects when inhaled as a vapor where it can be absorbed through the lungs. Symptoms of prolonged and/or acute exposures include:

 Tremors;

 Emotional changes (such as mood swings, irritability, nervousness, excessive shyness);

 Insomnia;

 Neuromuscular changes (such as weakness, muscle atrophy, twitching);

 Headaches;

 Disturbances in sensations;

 Changes in nerve responses; and/or;

 Poor performance on tests of mental function.

 Higher exposures may also cause kidney effects, respiratory failure and death.
JERUSALEM, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Israel has opened an investigation following a video footage circulated on social media, allegedly showing Israeli soldiers shooting and killing two Palestinians in Jenin, the northern West Bank, after they surrendered, Israel's state-owned Kan TV News reported Friday.

According to the report, three Israeli soldiers from an elite undercover counter-terrorism unit were being investigated following the release of the video showing soldiers from the unit shooting at the two Palestinians after they emerged from a structure and surrendered on Thursday.

The undercover unit operates under the Israel Border Police, in cooperation with the Israeli army and the Shin Bet security agency.

Kan reported that Israeli army chief Eyal Zamir has ordered an expedited investigation into the incident. According to the channel, the soldiers claimed they had operated in line with orders.

On Thursday, the Israeli army and police said in a joint statement that the forces operated to apprehend wanted individuals who had carried out "terrorist" activities, including hurling explosives and firing at security forces in the West Bank. 
U.S. Sen. James Lankford, R-Oklahoma, center, and U.S. Rep. Frank Lucas, R-Oklahoma, right, attend an event Sept. 12, 2025 at Express Ranches in Yukon about the threat posted by New World screwworms. (Photo by Emma Murphy/Oklahoma Voice)

OKLAHOMA CITY  Three of Oklahomas congressional delegation members were ranked as highly effective lawmakers, according to a report.

The Center for Effective Lawmaking analyzed the 118th Congress by party and chamber to determine who the most effective lawmakers were overall and by policy area. The Center is a joint partnership between schools at Vanderbilt University and University of Virginia.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On the Republican side, senators James Lankford and Markwayne Mullin and U.S. Rep. Tom Cole were highlighted in the report as being some of the most effective.

The most effective lawmakers are determined by combining 15 metrics, including the number of bills sponsored, how far those make it in the lawmaking process and how substantial the proposals are, according to the report.

Cole, who represents Oklahomas Fourth Congressional District and chairs the House Appropriations Committee, was ranked the third most effective House Republican. He introduced 20 bills and two became law.

He was also named the most effective House Republican in the policy area of macroeconomics.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I am a tireless advocate for the taxpayers, passionate about the need to produce a budget that can be utilized to defend our country as well as meet legitimate domestic needs, and willing to work in a bipartisan manner, Cole said in a statement. With that being said, I am so proud and honored to be named as one of the most effective House Republicans.

Lankford was ranked as the seventh most effective Senate Republican, a new addition to the top 10 list, according to the report. He sponsored 56 bills and two became law.

He was also named the most effective senator of his party in the policy area of government operations.

Spokespeople for Lankford did not return a request for comment by the time of publication.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mullin was named the most effective Senate Republican in the area of agriculture policy. His overall ranking among Senate Republicans was 37th.

As a lifelong cow-calf rancher, agriculture is truly a way of life for us in Oklahoma, Mullin said in a statement. In the Senate, Im fighting to ensure our farmers and ranchers are heard in the legislative process.  While I appreciate the recognition as the most effective Senate Republican for ag, weve got more to do. Ill always put our ag community first and do everything in my power to protect our rural way of life for generations to come.

Heres how rest of the Oklahomas all Republican congressional delegation also ranked for overall effectiveness:

U.S. Rep. Frank Lucas ranked 35th of the House Republicans,

U.S. Rep. Kevin Hern ranked 106th,

U.S. Rep. Stephanie Bice ranked 159th, and

U.S. Rep. Josh Brecheen, R-Oklahoma, ranked 169th.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
With shoppers about to hit the malls for Black Friday, local law enforcement is warning that crooks will be there, too.

"During the holidays, be aware of your surroundings," Clovis Police Sgt. Abby Padgett told Action News.

She says shoppers can take easy steps to protect themselves. It starts before even entering the store.

"Make sure that you don't leave anything visible," she said. "I do suggest parking as close to the front as you can or in lighted areas."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Once inside, Sgt. Padgett says to remain vigilant.

"I would keep your bag close," she said. "Keep it zipped. Don't put it inside a shopping cart and leave it while you're browsing the aisles."

Amazon also issued a warning this week for online shoppers.

The company is telling its customers that scammers are trying to access sensitive account details, sometimes including their personal and financial information.

Amazon says criminals often try to impersonate the company.

"You want to make sure that you are going to the actual merchant website that's usually indicated by a little padlock on the side, or it says, 'verified information,'" Sgt. Padgett said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Experts say credit cards offer an extra layer of protection over debit cards.

"That way, if there is something that gets compromised, it doesn't tie up your entire checking account, and it's easier for a financial institution to help get your money back," Sgt. Padgett said.

Package theft is also on the rise this season. One in four Americans has had a package stolen.

Prosecutors in New York say brazen "porch pirates" there are known to follow delivery trucks.

"Schedule deliveries for a time that you're going to be home," Sgt. Padgett said. "Give specific instructions. If it's an expensive package, it's a good idea to make sure that you require a signature."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

For Valley residents shopping in person at River Park or Fashion Fair, there will be increased security.

Action News has learned that officers from several agencies will patrol the malls in uniform and while undercover.

For news updates, follow Gabe Ferris on Facebook, X and Instagram.
A top European Union official on Wednesday accused the Trump administration of using blackmail to force the 27-country bloc to weaken regulations affecting U.S. tech companies.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, who visited Brussels for trade talks earlier this week, called on the EU to roll back its digital rules in exchange for a reduction of U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum.

Politics: Trump Commerce Secretary Makes *** Claim On Fox News About America's 'Beautiful' Beef

They would like to have steel and aluminum as part of this package, Lutnick told Bloomberg TV on Monday. And we think it is very, very important that they understand our digital companies and they reconsider their digital regulations to be more inviting to our big companies.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Take your foot off the regulatory statement, build those data centers in America and in exchange for that, well come up with a cool steel and aluminum deal, Lutnick added.

Lutnick also urged the EU to settle its cases against Google and Amazon while noting that the bloc would attract up to $1 trillion in investments if it followed his advice on weakening its digital rules.

Im trying to convince them that winning the way Donald Trump is winning in America is the way to go, Lutnick told Bloomberg.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick speaks at a press conference following a meeting with the EU Trade Ministers' Council in Brussels on Nov. 24, 2025. Dursun Aydemir/Anadolu via Getty Images

However, Teresa Ribera, the blocs antitrust chief, told Politico the U.S. should not dictate the European Unions digital rulebook.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It is blackmail, Ribera told the outlet. This being their intention does not mean that we accept that kind of blackmail.

News: Trump Admin Walks Back Tariff Exemption On Electronics

The EU and the U.S. reached a trade deal over the summer, setting a 15% tariff on most goods, but the agreement does not cover steel, aluminum and other derivative products that contain them. The U.S. still has a 50% tariff on the metals.

Lutnicks criticism seemed to be targeted at the blocs Digital Markets Act, which aims to limit the power of large tech companies, and its Digital Services Act, which polices online content.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Last week, the EU unveiled new proposals that would delay the implementation of stricter rules on the use of AI in high-risk areas like biometric identification and also soften privacy regulations, prompting criticism from 127 civil groups that called the move the biggest rollback of digital fundamental rights in EU history, according to Reuters.

It is disappointing to see the European Commission cave under the pressure of the Trump administration and Big Tech lobbies, said a Dutch member of the European Parliament, Kim van Sparrentak, per the news agency.

Related...

Read the original on HuffPost
Tracy Aviary wont just nurture birds and other wildlife  it plans to nurture some of Utahs youngest minds when it opens a first-of-its-kind preschool next year.

The aim? To keep children outside.

Anything you can do inside, you can do outside. We do art, literacy and building blocks in the open air, Sarah Stone, founder of Wonderbloom Nature Play School, said while announcing the preschools partnership Friday at the aviarys Nature Center in South Salt Lake.

Soley and Theo Gulledge, children of Lesley Gulledge, play at the Tracy Aviary Nature Center during the announcement ceremony for a new nature-based preschool in South Salt Lake on Friday. | Par Kermani, KSL.com

Ultimately, the goal of Wonderbloom is to teach children through nature and about nature so that, eventually, they can become the ultimate conservationists and help preserve our Earth for years to come, Stone said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Wonderbloom school will be able to use 12 acres of space at the Nature Center at Pia Okwai for its outdoor classroom. The preschool will open in August 2026.

The Nature Center, located along the Jordan River, was acquired by Tracy Aviary in 2019 as a dream project for CEO Tim Brown, who wanted an early childhood center on the property. The partnership came to fruition through a coalition called Nature and Human Health Utah.

The preschool hopes to accommodate 40 children on site, including its summer programs, 150 children each year. The children will spend 75% of their time outside, versus 12%, which is how much a traditional preschool would allot for outside time.

Stone emphasized the importance of opening the school in South Salt Lake due to the need for child care in the area.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Were seeing quite the child care crisis, not just in Utah, but across the United States, Stone said. Were seeing rising child care costs, child care centers that have been stable in communities shutting down because they just cant make ends meet.

According to Stone, a lot of issues surrounding the crisis stem from burnout and lots of turnover in early childhood education.

We have built-in systems into our staffing and our program to ensure that were really supporting our teachers and educators to prevent burnout, said Lianna Lopez, executive director at Wonderbloom.

Staff support includes scholarships for children of employees, medical benefits and paid leave, among others.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

To address affordability for families needing child care, the center plans to offer a scholarship endowment and child care options, including part-time, full-day, two days and three days a week. The center also accepts subsidies for families that can qualify, according to Lopez.

Were really excited about this partnership at Tracy Aviary, said Angie Trumbo, director of conservation at Tracy Aviary. Our mission is to, in partnership with community, inspire action to protect birds and their habitats. And this type of program and this type of education is really key to developing that next generation of wildlife conservationists who are passionate about birds, are passionate about our planet and can be the ones who take care of it.

The site will offer children access to lawn spaces, native plants and areas to observe the birds and enjoy spending time outdoors.

Officials from Tracy Aviary and Wonderbloom Nature Play School announce their partnership to launch Utahs first licensed nature-based preschool at the Nature Center at Pia Okwai in South Salt Lake on Friday. | Par Kermani, KSL.com

According to Stone, statistics show that children spend one hour a week outside and 40 hours on screens. But spending time outside in nature for children increases their social skills, decreases anxiety, and increases their health and academic outcomes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Theres no bad weather, only bad clothing, said Stone. We spend about a month before the snow comes, teaching children what to wear and why and when and how to get themselves dressed and undressed in all of the gear. It really is an important part of making a successful outdoor preschool program.

Wonderblooms Murray center has seen wait lists exceed available spots. Plans are underway to expand further, with possible future sites in Summit County.

Were always looking to partner with other churches or other nonprofits as a way to just support each other and support the community and provide as many child care spots as we can to children and families, Lopez said.
Nov. 27JBissett @DominionPost.com Legal ramifications continue for Sukhjinder Singh, the longhaul trucker who pleaded guilty in a fatal crash in January that sent a car plummeting off the Cheat Lake Bridge.

Singh earlier this week was taken into custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and is now lodged in the North Central Regional Jail in Doddridge County, court documents show.

No other information was available.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The 37-year-old, who lists New York as his state of residence, had been employed by a transport company in California.

Eyewitnesses said he had been driving too fast for road conditions at the height of a snowstorm Jan. 19 while crossing the bridge on Interstate 68.

The fatal collision with Kevin Lataille's car came after eyewitnesses reported Singh striking several other vehicles.

Ringcam video from a house in view of the roadway, also showed a large truck skidding and kicking up snow, and another car going off the Cheat Lake Bridge and into the water 80 feet below.

A week later, responders drilled through the ice of the frozen-over lake to recover the car of Lataille, a 59-year-old Smithfield, Pa., man who was on his way home after working his shift at the Patteson Drive Eat 'n Park.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Lataille was still in the driver's seat, still wearing his seatbelt.

The truck driver was arrested in California two months later and extradited back to West Virginia.

Speaking through an interpreter, Singh told authorities that while he was behind the wheel that day, he denied causing the wreck that killed Lataille.

Last month, he entered a guilty plea in Monongalia County Magistrate to a charge of vehicular homicide, which carries a $1, 000 fine and a year behind bars  the North Central Regional Jail, in this case, where he was taken after the ICE detainment.

After the plea and sentencing, Lataille's family members said they were heartened by the outpouring for the Rhode Island native who relocated to southwestern Pennsylvania after a hitch in the U.S. Navy.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Many of his friends searched for him on foot in extreme weather after his family declared him missing.

Her husband would have done the same, Lisa Lataille said.

"If Kevin could help you, he would, " she said. "He'd do anything for anybody. He was just a good guy, taken too soon."
Federal immigration authorities said Wednesday they have paused processing requests from Afghan nationals, after a man who entered the U.S. from Afghanistan was identified as the suspect in the shooting of two National Guard members in Washington, D.C.

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services said in a statement that the "processing of all immigration requests relating to Afghan nationals is stopped indefinitely pending further review of security and vetting protocols," effective immediately.

The announcement came shortly after the Department of Homeland Security announced publicly that the suspected shooter  who was shot by a Guard member and is now in custody  was a man named Rahmanullah Lakanwal who entered the U.S. in 2021 under a Biden-era initiative for Afghans called Operation Allies Welcome.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

President Trump said in remarks following the shooting: "We must now reexamine every single alien who has entered our country from Afghanistan under Biden, and we must take all necessary measures to ensure the removal of any alien from any country who does not belong here or add benefit to our country."

The U.S. military evacuated tens of thousands of people from Afghanistan in 2021, as the United States' two-decade-long war in the country ended with the Taliban returning to power.

Upward of 85,000 Afghans were settled in the U.S. under Operation Allies Welcome. In many cases, they were initially housed at military bases and flown to the U.S. after undergoing processing.

Many Afghan nationals qualified for Special Immigration Visas, a type of permanent visa offered to people who were employed by the U.S. government  including military interpreters who often feared retribution from the Taliban for aiding U.S. forces. That program was plagued by years of backlogs, however.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Others from Afghanistan applied for asylum  which is offered to people fleeing persecution  or visas based on being family members of U.S. citizens or green card holders.

And many were granted less permanent protections like humanitarian parole and temporary protected status, putting them in an uncertain situation with no clear pathway to permanent residency unless they qualified for some other immigration status.

A Department of Homeland Security official told CBS News the shooting suspect was paroled into the U.S. on humanitarian grounds in 2021. Lakanwal later applied for asylum with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services in 2024 and his application was granted in 2025, the DHS official said. But his request for a green card, which is tied to the asylum grant, is pending.

More than 8,000 people from Afghanistan were also granted deportation relief under a separate program called temporary protected status, which Biden extended in 2023 but Mr. Trump chose to end earlier this year.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Members of both political parties have expressed support for assisting Afghans who helped U.S. forces, and the Biden administration emphasized that those who entered the U.S. underwent security vetting beforehand. But some Republican officials have long questioned whether the vetting processes were rigorous or complete enough.

The nonprofit group AfghanEvac condemned Wednesday's attack in a statement, but urged people "not to demonize the Afghan community for the deranged choice this person made." The group said immigrants from Afghanistan "undergo some of the most extensive security vetting of any population entering the country."

"Those who would twist this moment to attack Afghan families aren't seeking safety or justice  they're exploiting division and endangering all of us," AfghanEvac President Shawn VanDiver said.

Trump threatens major immigration overhauls after National Guard shooting

National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom dies after D.C. attack, officials say

Trump reacts to National Guard shooting in D.C. as details emerge about Afghan suspect
AP Photo/Alex Brandon

President Donald Trump announced on Thursday evening that he would permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries in the wake of the shooting of two National Guardsmen by a suspected Afghan national.

A migrant earning $30,000 with a green card will get roughly $50,000 in yearly benefits for their family. The real migrant population is much higher, wrote Trump in a Thanksgiving message posted to Truth Social. This refugee burden is the leading cause of social dysfunction in America.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The president went on to accuse Somalian refugees of completely taking over the once great State of Minnesota, before calling the governor of the state, Tim Walz, seriously retarded.

Even as we have progressed technologically, Immigration Policy has eroded those gains and living conditions for many, Trump continued, announcing:

I will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the U.S. system to fully recover, terminate all of the millions of Biden illegal admissions, including those signed by Sleepy Joe Bidens Autopen, and remove anyone who is not a net asset to the United States, or is incapable of loving our Country, end all Federal benefits and subsidies to noncitizens of our Country, denaturalize migrants who undermine domestic tranquility, and deport any Foreign National who is a public charge, security risk, or non-compatible with Western Civilization. These goals will be pursued with the aim of achieving a major reduction in illegal and disruptive populations, including those admitted through an unauthorized and illegal Autopen approval process. Only REVERSE MIGRATION can fully cure this situation. Other than that, HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL, except those that hate, steal, murder, and destroy everything that America stands for  You wont be here for long!

Trump made the announcement hours after it was revealed that 20-year-old National Guardsman Sarah Beckstrom had passed away from her wounds after being shot in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday by a suspected Afghan national.

Another Guardman, 24-year-old Andrew Wolfe, was also shot during the attack and remains in critical condition.

The post Trump Announces He Will Permanently Pause Migration From All Third World Countries first appeared on Mediaite.
Washington  President Trump has lashed out at several female reporters who have asked him questions or written critically of him in recent weeks, calling them "ugly," "stupid," and "piggy."

The most recent incident came at Mar-a-Lago on Thursday night, when CBS News chief White House correspondent Nancy Cordes asked the president about the suspect in the shooting of two members of the National Guard in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday. The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, is an Afghan national who was let into the U.S. under the Biden administration and granted asylum under the Trump administration.

Cordes pointed out that the inspector general of the Justice Department found that Afghans who entered the U.S. after the fall of Kabul in 2021 had been thoroughly vetted. She asked the president: "So why do you blame the Biden administration "

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Because they let him in. Are you stupid? Are you a stupid person? Because they came in on a plane, along with thousands of other people that shouldn't be here, and you're just asking questions because you're a stupid person," Mr. Trump responded.

President Trump speaks with reporters at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, on Nov. 27, 2025. / Credit: Pete Marovich / Getty Images

On Wednesday, the president assailed New York Times correspondent Katie Rogers, who co-authored an article on his age and physical stamina in his second term, calling her "third rate" and "ugly, both inside and out."

The president's insults at Cordes and Rogers are just the latest in recent weeks that have been aimed at female reporters covering his presidency. While speaking to members of the press on Air Force One earlier this month, the president snapped at Bloomberg White House correspondent Catherine Lucey, telling her "Quiet. Quiet, piggy."

Lucey was asking the president about releasing the files from the Justice Department's investigation into convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Asked about the comment, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Mr. Trump is "very frank and honest" with reporters and contrasted the president's willingness to take questions from the press to his predecessor, former President Joe Biden.

"I think the president being frank and open and honest to your faces rather than hiding behind your backs, is, frankly, a lot more respectful than what you saw in the last administration, where you had a president who lied to your face and then didn't speak to you for weeks and hid upstairs and didn't take your questions," she said. "So I think everyone in this room should appreciate the frankness and the openness that you get from President Trump on a near daily basis."

A Bloomberg spokesperson told the Washington Post that "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."

Then last week, while hosting Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in the Oval Office last week, Mr. Trump berated ABC News chief White House correspondent Mary Bruce when she asked about the 2018 murder of Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi. An intelligence report released by the Biden administration concluded that bin Salman ordered the attack on Khashoggi.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mr. Trump accused Bruce of embarrassing the crown prince with her question and later called her a "terrible person and a terrible reporter." The president said her question was "horrible" and "insubordinate."

Wednesday's insult against Rogers was provoked by a New York Times article published Tuesday that examined the frequency of the president's public events and domestic travel, as well as the timing of his appearances on his public schedule. At 79, Mr. Trump is the oldest person elected to serve as president.

Signs of bruising on his right hand as well as swollen ankles have prompted new questions about Mr. Trump's health. The president also revealed to reporters last month that he underwent an MRI during a physical at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in April.

Rogers' byline on the piece about Mr. Trump's aging in office is listed alongside another reporter, Dylan Freedman, a machine-learning engineer and journalist at the New York Times.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The president attacked the Times and Rogers over the article, which he claimed was a "hit piece." He called the newspaper a "cheap 'rag'" that is "truly an 'enemy of the people.'"

"The writer of the story, Katie Rogers, who is assigned to write only bad things about me, is a third rate reporter who is ugly, both inside and out," Mr. Trump wrote on Truth Social. He did not mention the story's co-author.

The New York Times defended the article and Rogers.

"The Times' reporting is accurate and built on first hand reporting of the facts. Name-calling and personal insults don't change that, nor will our journalists hesitate to cover this administration in the face of intimidation tactics like this," a spokesperson said in a statement. "Expert and thorough reporters like Katie Rogers exemplify how an independent and free press helps the American people better understand their government and its leaders."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Society of Professional Journalists condemned Mr. Trump's attacks on Bruce and Lucey last week, which it said were not isolated and instead "part of an unmistakable pattern of hostility  often directed at women  that undermines the essential role of a free and independent press."

"Journalists are not props at a photo op  they are watchdogs for the public," Caroline Hendrie, executive director of the group, said in a statement. "When reporters ask hard questions about the murder of a fellow journalist, that is not an embarrassment. What's embarrassing is a leader trying to silence those questions."

Trump threatens major immigration overhauls after National Guard shooting

National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom dies after D.C. attack, officials say

Young mom murdered after receiving menacing messages from stalker
Trump's student-loan repayment overhaul includes new borrowing caps for graduate and professional students.

It also reclassifies which programs are considered "professional" and eligible for a higher loan cap.

Advocates expressed concerns that the changes could strain those in healthcare professions.

This year, there's a new topic to argue about at the Thanksgiving table: What is a professional degree?

It's a question that President Donald Trump's Department of Education recently addressed in its overhaul of student-loan repayment. That's led to criticism from groups that are not included in the department's narrower degree definition.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The crux of the issue is new borrowing limits. Trump's "big beautiful" spending legislation that he signed into law in July included new borrowing caps on professional and graduate student loans, aiming to curb excessive borrowing: $20,500 a year for graduate students or $100,000 over a lifetime, and $50,000 a year for professional students or $200,000 over a lifetime.

In addition to the caps, the department also reclassified what constitutes a professional degree, narrowing it down to 10 programs, including dentistry, medicine, and law.

Some advocates said the department's professional degree definition could strain student-loan borrowing access to those in the healthcare profession seeking post-graduate training, like nurses, although the changes won't affect undergraduate borrowing.

"At a time when healthcare in our country faces a historic nurse shortage and rising demands, limiting nurses' access to funding for graduate education threatens the very foundation of patient care," Jennifer Mensik Kennedy, president of the American Nurses Association, said in a statement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Department of Education said that the new definitions only reflect which programs qualify for higher loan limits and are "not a value judgement about the importance of programs. It has no bearing on whether a program is professional in nature or not."

How will the changes to student-loan borrowing caps and professional degrees impact you? Share your story with this reporter at asheffey@businessinsider.com.

Student-loan changes to professional degree programs

The Department of Education said 10 post-graduate programs will be counted as professional degrees and will be eligible for the higher student-loan cap: pharmacy, dentistry, veterinary medicine, chiropractic, law, medicine, optometry, osteopathic medicine, podiatry, and theology.

Preston Cooper, a senior fellow at the conservative think-tank the American Enterprise Institute, wrote in a Monday blog post that Congress "legislated only broad guidelines as to how graduate programs should be classified," and the distinction between professional and non-professional programs was left to the discretion of the Education Department.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

When it comes to nursing programs, Cooper said that the "new caps will affect only a small number of programs charging exorbitant prices."

The Department of Education said that, based on its data, 95% of nursing students borrow below the new student-loan cap. The average cost of a master's degree in nursing in 2020 ranged from $15,030 to nearly $43,000, per the National Center for Education Statistics.

The borrowing caps could strain other professions and cause some students to either forgo their advanced degrees or turn to the riskier, private lending market. For example, the Association of American Medical Colleges found that the median cost for four years of public medical school was $286,454 for the class of 2024. For law school, the average total cost was just over $217,000. The $200,000 lifetime cap would be insufficient to cover those tuition amounts.

While negotiations on the changes have concluded, the public will have an opportunity to comment on the proposals early next year before the department moves toward final implementation. The department said that it "may make changes in response to public comments."

Read the original article on Business Insider
AP Photo/Evan Vucci

President Donald Trump reached another low on Thanksgiving night in a rant against immigrants and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.

Trump, 79, has displayed increasingly erratic and antisocial behavior. This month, he called a reporter piggy to her face. Last week, he claimed that six Democratic lawmakers who urged soldiers to refuse illegal orders had committed sedition. For good measure, Trump reposted a post stating, HANG THEM GEORGE WASHINGTON WOULD !! On Wednesday, the president ranted against Somalians after an Afghan national named Rahmanullah Lakanwal was arrested in connection with the shooting of two National Guard members in Washington, D.C., one of whom has died. During a Thanksgiving press conference, the president erupted at another female reporter who questioned him about his dubious claim that Lakanwal was an unvetted refugee, who reportedly worked for the CIA during the U.S. occupation of Afghanistan. Trump told the reporter, Youre a stupid person.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

After the presser, Trump took to Truth Social, where he railed against Somalis and Walz, whom he called seriously retarded and claimed that the countrys foreign-born population is composed mostly of people who are on welfare, from failed nations, or from prisons, mental institutions, gangs, or drug cartels. He also singled out Walz, whose state of Minnesota has a notable population of Somali immigrants. The president also baselessly claimed that Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN), a Somali immigrant, probably entered the U.S. illegally:

A very Happy Thanksgiving salutation to all of our Great American Citizens and Patriots who have been so nice in allowing our Country to be divided, disrupted, carved up, murdered, beaten, mugged, and laughed at, along with certain other foolish countries throughout the World, for being Politically Correct, and just plain STUPID, when it comes to Immigration. The official United States Foreign population stands at 53 million people (Census), most of which are on welfare, from failed nations, or from prisons, mental institutions, gangs, or drug cartels. They and their children are supported through massive payments from Patriotic American Citizens who, because of their beautiful hearts, do not want to openly complain or cause trouble in any way, shape, or form. They put up with what has happened to our Country, but its eating them alive to do so! A migrant earning $30,000 with a green card will get roughly $50,000 in yearly benefits for their family. The real migrant population is much higher. This refugee burden is the leading cause of social dysfunction in America, something that did not exist after World War II (Failed schools, high crime, urban decay, overcrowded hospitals, housing shortages, and large deficits, etc.). As an example, hundreds of thousands of refugees from Somalia are completely taking over the once great State of Minnesota. Somalian gangs are roving the streets looking for prey as our wonderful people stay locked in their apartments and houses hoping against hope that they will be left alone. The seriously retarded Governor of Minnesota, Tim Walz, does nothing, either through fear, incompetence, or both, while the worst Congressman/woman in our Country, Ilhan Omar, always wrapped in her swaddling hijab, and who probably came into the U.S.A. illegally in that you are not allowed to marry your brother, does nothing but hatefully complain about our Country, its Constitution, and how badly she is treated, when her place of origin is a decadent, backward, and crime ridden nation, which is essentially not even a country for lack of Government, Military, Police, schools, etc

In another post, Trump said, Only REVERSE MIGRATION can fully cure this situation.

During a press conference at Mar-a-Lago on Thanksgiving night, a reporter noted, U.S. officials say that the suspect worked very closely with the CIA in Afghanistan for years, that he was vetted and the vetting came up clean

Trump interrupted to say the suspected shooter went nuts.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He went cuckoo. I mean, he went nuts, Trump said. It happens too often with these people. You see them. But look, this is how they come in, theyre standing on top of each other. Thats an airplane. There was no vetting or anything. They came in unvetted and we have a lot of others in this country and were going to get them out.

Actually, your DOJ IG just reported this year that there was thorough vetting by DHS and by the FBI of these Afghans who were brought into the U.S., the reporter noted. So why do you blame the Biden administration for what this man did?

In response, Trump lost it.

Because they let them in, he replied. Are you stupid? Are you a stupid person? he said. Because they came in on a plane along with thousands of other people that shouldnt be here and youre just asking questions because youre a stupid person.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hours after the shooting of the National Guard members on Wednesday, CNN reported that the Trump administration had approved the asylum application of Lakanwal, the suspected gunman.

The post Trump Hits Another Low, Calls Governor Seriously Retarded first appeared on Mediaite.
TRIPOLI, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Aguila Saleh, speaker of Libya's eastern-based House of Representatives, on Friday called on Libya's High National Elections Commission to immediately implement the law on direct presidential elections and hold the presidential vote as soon as possible.

In a statement published on the official Facebook page of the speaker's media office, Saleh expressed the parliament's support for the peaceful demonstrations that took place across several Libyan regions on Friday evening, demanding the acceleration of the presidential elections.

The statement stressed that the demonstrations reflect "the will of the Libyan people, which constitutes the source of authority."

Saleh emphasized that expediting the elections aims to preserve the country's unity and its institutions, prevent continued division, and meet citizens' aspirations to build a stable state.

Earlier on Friday, several Libyan cities, including those in eastern and southern regions, witnessed large peaceful demonstrations in which citizens demanded the swift holding of presidential elections and the right to choose their political leadership.

Since the fall of former leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, Libya has been split between two rival governments -- the Tripoli-based Government of National Unity led by Abdul Hamid Dbeibah, and the eastern-based administration appointed by the House of Representatives and headed by Osama Hammad. 
US President Donald Trump on Thursday said that one of the two members of the National Guard who were shot a day earlier near the White House has died.

"She was savagely attacked, she's dead," Trump said of the 20-year-old woman who served in the West Virginia National Guard.

On Wednesday afternoon, two members of the National Guard on patrol near Washington's Farragut West metro station, not far from the White House, were shot.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump said that the other member of the guard who was shot, a 24-year-old man, was fighting for his life.

The two members of the National Guard were shot near the metro station at about 2:15 pm (1915 GMT) on Wednesday.

Executive Assistant Chief of the Metropolitan Police Department Jeffery Carroll said that the only suspect in the shooting had been subdued by other members of the National Guard, arrested and transported to hospital for treatment.

Authorities: Suspect came from Afghanistan

Jeanine Pirro, US attorney for the District of Columbia, on Thursday said the suspected gunman, a 29-year-old Afghan national, lived in Bellingham in Washington State on the other side of the country, with his wife and five children. He reportedly drove across the country to the US capital before the attack.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He used a revolver in the attack and faces 15 years for assault with the intent to kill while armed, Pirro said. She made it clear that this was a preliminary assessment. The motive for the attack was initially unclear.

Trump has called the shooting an "act of terror."
Members of the National Guard deployed in the nation's capital gather near the area of a shooting two blocks from the White House on Nov. 26, 2025 in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images)

Days after a shooting that left one member of the West Virginia National Guard dead and another hospitalized in Washington, D.C., U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., said she believes troops from West Virginia should remain in the city only on a voluntary basis.

Capitos statement to reporters came after President Donald Trump requested 500 more National Guard members be sent to the city in the wake of the shooting on Wednesday. About 150 members of the West Virginia National Guard are still in D.C., and have been deployed there on a voluntary basis since about Nov. 15.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I like that idea  for West Virginians to be in a voluntary status. Weve certainly served our time over in DC, Capito said.  I dont know where [Trump] is going to draw his 500 extra guardsmen from. I think West Virginia should stay on a voluntary basis, and that will be up to the governor.

Gov. Patrick Morriseys office did not respond to a request for comment for this story. Morrisey originally sent about 300 members of the states National Guard to D.C. in August, at the request of the Trump administration.

Trumps order to increase military presence in D.C. came after two members of the West Virginia National Guard were shot in a targeted attack blocks from the White House on Wednesday.

U.S. Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, 20, of Summersville, W.Va. , died on Thursday, Nov. 27, 2025, after she was shot while on mission as a member of the West Virginia National Guard in Washington, D.C. (Photo courtesy of Joint Task Force-District of Columbia)

West Virginia National Guard member U.S. Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, 20, died on Thursday evening, according to officials. The other victim, U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, remained hospitalized in critical condition on Friday morning, according to a news release from Morriseys office.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In an interview with CNNs Sarah Sidner on Friday morning, Morrisey said he was supportive of keeping West Virginia National Guard members who volunteer in D.C. He did not indicate whether more troops would be sent from the state, but said he agreed with Trumps move to bring more military into the U.S. Capital. It would be wrong, he continued, to pull the National Guard out after the recent attack.

The last thing in the world we should do is turn around and reverse course and let the bad guys, the evil-doers win, Morrisey said.  We cannot turn around and give in to them. We have to send a clear message that if youre going to mess with our troops, youre going to pay the price.

The suspect was shot during the incident and taken into custody. On Thursday, federal law enforcement officials searched the home of Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan refugee who worked with U.S. forces in Afghanistan. Lakanwal allegedly drove across the country from Washington state to D.C. to target the troops, officials said.

Lakanwal is currently facing a murder charge as well as three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence and two counts of assault with intent to kill while armed.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In the wake of the shooting, Trump and other federal officials have vowed to crackdown on immigration. On Wednesday evening, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services said that all applications from Afghan nationals were being put on pause.

On Friday, Capito said she was concerned about the immigration process and the policies that allowed Lakanwal to come to the United States.

I mean, what kind of vetting processes do we have? Are they thorough? Capito questioned.  I think that this is a sad way to point out that we dont have good and accurate information [on our different immigration processes] that we need to get. We need to get more granular. I think thats why the President put a halt on a lot of this, so that we can evaluate our processes.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
US President Donald Trump said on Thursday he would suspend migration from what he called "third world countries", a day after an Afghan national allegedly shot two National Guard soldiers in Washington, killing one.

His social media post, which also threatened to reverse "millions" of admissions granted under his predecessor Joe Biden, marked a new escalation in the anti-migration stance.

Trump said earlier that Sarah Beckstrom, a 20-year-old West Virginia National Guard member deployed in Washington as part of his crackdown on crime, had died from her wounds.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The FBI has launched an international terror investigation as new details emerged about the alleged gunman, a 29-year-old Afghan national who was a member of the "Zero Units" -- a CIA-backed counterterrorism group, according to multiple US media reports.

The shooting on Wednesday, which officials described as an "ambush-style" attack, has brought together three politically explosive issues: Trump's controversial use of the military at home, immigration, and the legacy of the US war in Afghanistan.

"I will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the U.S. system to fully recover," Trump wrote on social media.

He linked the shooting and his decision to send hundreds of National Guard troops to the city.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"If they weren't effective, you probably wouldn't have had this done," Trump said. "Maybe this man was upset because he couldn't practice crime."

Joseph Edlow, Trump's director of US Citizenship and Immigration Services, said on Thursday he had ordered a "full-scale, rigorous reexamination of every Green Card for every alien from every country of concern."

His agency later pointed to a list of 19 countries -- including Afghanistan, Cuba, Haiti, Iran and Myanmar -- facing US travel restrictions under a previous order from Trump in June.

More than 1.6 million US green card holders, roughly 12 percent of the total permanent resident population, were born in the countries listed, according to the latest immigration data available on the agency's "Eligible to Naturalize Dashboard" analyzed by AFP.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Cuba accounts for the largest share, with about 560,000 green card holders, followed by Haiti (235,000) and Venezuela (153,000).

Afghanistan, which has over 116,000 green card holders, is also affected by a total halt of immigration application processing, ordered by the Trump administration after the shooting.

- 'Brazen, targeted' attack -

The other soldier wounded in Wednesday's attack, 24-year-old Andrew Wolfe, was "fighting for his life", Trump said. The suspected shooter was also in serious condition.

The US attorney for Washington DC, Jeanine Pirro, said the suspected assailant, identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, had been living in the western state of Washington and had driven across the country to the capital.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In what she called a "brazen and targeted" attack, Pirro said the gunman opened fire with a .357 Smith and Wesson revolver on a group of guardsmen on patrol just a few blocks from the White House.

Officials said they still had no clear understanding of the motive behind the shooting.

- Afghan legacy -

CIA director John Ratcliffe said the suspect had been part of a CIA-backed "partner force" fighting the Taliban in Afghanistan, and had been brought to the US as part of a program to evacuate Afghans who had worked with the agency.

The heads of the FBI, CIA and Homeland Security and other senior Trump appointees all insisted that Lakanwal had been granted unvetted access to the US because of lax asylum policies in the wake of the chaotic final US withdrawal from Afghanistan under former president Biden.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

However, AfghanEvac, a group that helped resettle Afghans in the US after the military withdrawal, said they had undergone "some of the most extensive security vetting" of any migrants.

Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth said in the wake of Wednesday's shooting that 500 more troops would deploy to Washington, bringing the total to 2,500.

Trump has deployed troops to several cities, all run by Democrats, including Washington, Los Angeles and Memphis. The move has prompted multiple lawsuits and allegations of authoritarian overreach by the White House.

bur-ane/md
Nov. 28 (UPI) -- President Donald Trump posted that he plans to pardon former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez, who was convicted in a U.S. court of trafficking drugs to the United States.

"I will be granting a Full and Complete Pardon to Former President Juan Orlando Hernandez who has been, according to many people that I greatly respect, treated very harshly and unfairly," he posted on Truth Social Friday.

Trump also said in the post that he is supporting a conservative Honduran candidate as the Central American country prepares for election. He endorsed Tito Asfura, who is from the same party that Hernandez once led, the National Party.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In March 2024, Hernandez was convicted in a U.S. court of conspiring to import cocaine into the United States. He served as president of Honduras from 2014 to 2022. He was extradited to the United States in April 2022.

He was sentenced by a U.S. judge to 45 years in prison for running a "narco-state" that helped send South American cocaine to the United States.

Mayor of Tegucigalpa, Honduras, Nasry "Tito" Asfura, and presidential candidate for the National Party, speaks during an interview with a local television, in Honduras in 2021. On Friday, President Donald Trump said he would endorse his candidacy for president of Honduras. File Photo by Gustavo Amador/EPA

U.S. prosecutors said he built his political career on millions of dollars in bribes from drug traffickers in Honduras and Mexico. They also said he helped move at least 400 tons of cocaine to the United States and protected traffickers from extradition and prosecution, the Washington Post reported.

The post by Trump said, "If Tito Asfura wins for President of Honduras, because the United States has so much confidence in him, his Policies, and what he will do for the Great People of Honduras, we will be very supportive. If he doesn't win, the United States will not be throwing good money after bad, because a wrong Leader can only bring catastrophic results to a country, no matter which country it is. Tito will be a Great President, and the United States will work closely with him in order to ensure the success, with all of its potential, of Honduras! Additionally, I will be granting a Full and Complete Pardon to Former President Juan Orlando Hernandez who has been, according to many people that I greatly respect, treated very harshly and unfairly. This cannot be allowed to happen, especially now, after Tito Asfura wins the Election, when Honduras will be on its way to Great Political and Financial Success. VOTE FOR TITO ASFURA FOR PRESIDENT, AND CONGRATULATIONS TO JUAN ORLANDO HERNANDEZ ON YOUR UPCOMING PARDON. Thank you for your attention to this matter. MAKE HONDURAS GREAT AGAIN!"

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Wednesday, Trump endorsed Asfura, called the opposition in Honduras "Narcoterrorists," and compared them to Venezuela's Nicolas Maduro.

"Tito and I can work together to fight the Narcocommunists, and bring needed aid to the people of Honduras," Trump said.
President Donald Trump on Thursday attacked a journalist for asking a basic question during a Thanksgiving media availability after he spoke to U.S. service members, part of a recent trend of insults hes hurled at the women who cover him.

Are you stupid? Are you a stupid person? he asked the reporter during a tense exchange about the suspect in Wednesdays attack on two National Guard members in Washington, D.C.

Politics: 'Scott Jennings Does Not Deserve A Platform!': Ex-DC Cop Attacked On Jan. 6 Rips Trump Fan

Trump during the event announced that one of the victims, 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom, had died and railed against the immigration policies of President Joe Biden as the suspect, who had worked with the CIA in Afghanistan, was allowed into the United States as part of a resettlement program in 2021.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

However, he was granted asylum this year by the Trump administration.

He was vetted and the vetting came up clean, the reporter pointed out.

He went cuckoo, Trump replied. I mean, he went nuts, and that happens too. It happens too often with these people.

But Trump insisted that Afghan migrants were allowed in with no screening, and held up a photo of a crowded plane of asylum-seekers:

US President Donald Trump shows a printed photo during a call with service members from his Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Florida, on November 27, 2025, during the Thanksgiving holiday. US President Donald Trump said Thursday that Sarah Beckstrom, one of the two National Guard troops shot a day earlier near the White House, had died, while the other soldier was "fighting for his life." (Photo by Jim WATSON / AFP via Getty Images) JIM WATSON via Getty Images

There was no vetting or anything, they came in unvetted, he said.

Actually, your DOJ IG just reported this year that there was thorough vetting by DHS and by the FBI of these Afghans who were brought into the U.S., she persisted. So why do you blame the Biden administration?

Politics: White House Rips Journalist Over DC Shooting Post: 'Respectfully, Shut The **** Up'

Trump did not like the question at all.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Because they let em in, he fired back. Are you stupid? Are you a stupid person? Because they came into on a plane along with thousands of other people that shouldnt be here, and youre just asking questions because youre a stupid person.

Youre a stupid person  Trump lashes out at a reporter who presses him on the fact that the suspected DC shooter was actually thoroughly vetted before he was let in the US from Afghanistan pic.twitter.com/1mOPMGQeJO  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) November 28, 2025

Trump said its almost impossible to remove the people who came in via this program.

You cant get them out once they come in, said Trump, whose administration claimed to have deported 527,000 migrants this year so far (although that number has been challenged).

Politics: MAGA Pumps The Brakes On AI As Trump Goes All In

Trump has a long history of attacking the media, but in recent weeks has been especially vitriolic toward the women who cover him.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He called Katie Rogers of the New York Times ugly after she co-bylined a report on his lighter schedule as he ages. He chastised ABCs Mary Bruce for asking what he called a horrible, insubordinate, and just a terrible question about having Saudi Arabias crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, in the Oval Office.

And when Bloombergs Catherine Lucey asked about the Jeffrey Epstein files, he fired back: Quiet, piggy!

His staff has followed his lead, telling New Yorker writer Jane Mayer to respectfully, shut the **** up when she questioned the deployment of National Guard troops to Washington after the attack.

Politics: Mary Trump Spots The Tell In Uncle's Increasing Meltdowns At Women Reporters

Mary Trump, a clinical psychologist who is also the presidents niece, said those attacks are telling.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hes a little rattled, she said in her podcast earlier this week.

Political Updates

Read the original on HuffPost
Amid a buildup of U.S. military forces near Venezuela and strikes on alleged drug boats, President Donald Trump told U.S. troops on Thanksgiving that the military operation will soon include strikes on land.

In recent weeks, youve been working to deter Venezuelan drug traffickers," Trump said during a call with military service members that alluded to the boat strikes, adding: "Well be starting to stop them by land also. The land is easier, but thats going to start very soon."

Since early September, the Trump administration has attacked at least 21 boats traversing the Caribbean Sea and Eastern Pacific in international waters, killing 83 people  many of them Venezuelans. Administration officials have said, without providing evidence, that those boats were attempting to carry narcotics to the United States.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

More: What the US labeling Venezuelan 'Cartel de los Soles' terrorists means

Sept. 15, 2025: The U.S. military killed three people in a strike on a boat allegedly trafficking drugs in the Caribbean Sea. Sept. 15, 2025: The U.S. military killed three people in a strike on a boat allegedly trafficking drugs in the Caribbean Sea. Oct. 3, 2025: The U.S. military killed four people in a strike on a vessel that was allegedly transporting substantial amounts of narcotics, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 3. Oct. 3, 2025: The U.S. military killed four people in a strike on a vessel that was allegedly transporting substantial amounts of narcotics, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 3. Oct. 17, 2025: The U.S. military killed three people in a strike on a vessel alleged to be smuggling drugs for Ejercito de Liberacion Nacional (ELN), Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 17. Oct. 17, 2025: The U.S. military killed three people in a strike on a vessel alleged to be smuggling drugs for Ejercito de Liberacion Nacional (ELN), Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 17. Oct. 21, 2025: The U.S. military killed two people in a strike on a vessel allegedly smuggling illicit narcotics in the Eastern Pacific, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 22. Oct. 21, 2025: The U.S. military killed two people in a strike on a vessel allegedly smuggling illicit narcotics in the Eastern Pacific, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 22. Oct. 22, 2025: The U.S. military killed three people in a strike on a vessel allegedly smuggling illicit narcotics in the Eastern Pacific, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 22. Oct. 22, 2025: The U.S. military killed three people in a strike on a vessel allegedly smuggling illicit narcotics in the Eastern Pacific, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 22. Oct. 24, 2025: The U.S. military killed six people in a strike on a boat in the Caribbean, alleged to be carrying narcotics, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 24. Oct. 24, 2025: The U.S. military killed six people in a strike on a boat in the Caribbean, alleged to be carrying narcotics, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 24. US military conducts deadly boat strikes against alleged drug traffickers 1 of 12 Sept. 15, 2025: The U.S. military killed three people in a strike on a boat allegedly trafficking drugs in the Caribbean Sea.

The military campaign that has drawn criticism from legal experts, who question the legality of using deadly military force rather than trying to apprehend suspected trafficking vessels and their cargo. This week Senate Democrats escalated their demands that the Trump administration publicly disclose the legal justification for conducting the attacks.

Few decisions are more consequential for a democracy than the use of lethal force," the 13 senators, all members of the Armed Services and Foreign Relations committees, wrote in a Nov. 24 letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

More: Venezuelan boat strikes lack legal justification, Democrats say

President Donald Trump looks on as he participates in a call with military service members on Thanksgiving, in Palm Beach, Florida, November 27, 2025.

Trump has said for weeks that he also is contemplating land strikes on targets within Venezuela. Tensions are high as the U.S. positioned its largest aircraft carrier, two guided missile destroyers, and a special operations ship near Venezuela. Around 12,000 troops are stationed in the area.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Trump administration designated Cartel de los Soles, which it claims is headed by Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, as a foreign terrorist organization on Nov. 24, as it turns up the heat on a longtime adversary.

More: What the US labeling Venezuelan 'Cartel de los Soles' terrorists means

Yet even as he contemplates escalating military action, Trump is leaving the door open to diplomacy, saying he may speak directly with with Maduro amid his pressure campaign on the Latin American leader.

"I might talk to him, we'll see," Trump said Nov. 25 when asked about Maduro while traveling aboard Air Force One to Florida.

Contributing: Cybele Mayes-Osterman and Josh Meyer, USA TODAY

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Donald Trump say military 'soon' will strike land targets in Venezuela
AP Photo/Alex Brandon

On Friday via Truth Social, President Donald Trump announced that he plans to pardon the former president of Honduras, Juan Orlando Hernandez, who was sentenced to 45 years in U.S. federal prison on drug trafficking and weapons charges.

Hernandez was arrested in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, in February 2022 and was extradited to the U.S. in April 2022 to face charges in a New York federal court. U.S. prosecutors said Hernandez governed Honduras as a narco-state, leveraging the presidency to help move more than 400 tons of cocaine toward the United States in exchange for millions in bribes from major traffickers, among them Joaquin El Chapo Guzman.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

A federal jury convicted him in March 2024 on three counts related to drug trafficking and firearms conspiracies. He was sentenced on June 26, 2024, to 45 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay an $8 million fine.

I will be granting a Full and Complete Pardon to Former President Juan Orlando Hernandez who has been, according to many people that I greatly respect, treated very harshly and unfairly, wrote Trump on Truth Social. This cannot be allowed to happen, especially now, after Tito Asfura wins the Election, when Honduras will be on its way to Great Political and Financial Success.

This is the second time this week that Trump has expressed support for Nasry Tito Asfura, the Honduran presidential candidate of the conservative National Party, on Truth Social. A Wednesday post insisted that the two can work together to fight the Narcocommunists, and bring needed aid to the people of Honduras.

His Friday post continued, VOTE FOR TITO ASFURA FOR PRESIDENT, AND CONGRATULATIONS TO JUAN ORLANDO HERNANDEZ ON YOUR UPCOMING PARDON. Thank you for your attention to this matter. MAKE HONDURAS GREAT AGAIN!

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Additionally, Trump promised that if Asfura doesnt win this weekends election, the United States will not be throwing good money after bad, because a wrong Leader can only bring catastrophic results to a country, no matter which country it is.

The post Trump Says Hell Pardon Ex-Honduran President Serving 45 Years for Drug Trafficking first appeared on Mediaite.
President Donald Trump said he will pardon a former Honduran president sentenced to 45 years in prison on drug and gun charges, a clemency move that comes as Trump regularly speaks about the need to crack down on illegal narcotics.

Trump said in a Nov. 28 social media post that he is pardoning Juan Orlando Hernandez, the former two-term president of Honduras who was convicted last year by a U.S. jury for "conspiring to distribute more than 400 tons of cocaine and related firearms offenses," according to the Justice Department.

"I will be granting a Full and Complete Pardon to Former President Juan Orlando Hernandez who has been, according to many people that I greatly respect, treated very harshly and unfairly," Trump wrote on social media.

Sept. 15, 2025: The U.S. military killed three people in a strike on a boat allegedly trafficking drugs in the Caribbean Sea. Sept. 15, 2025: The U.S. military killed three people in a strike on a boat allegedly trafficking drugs in the Caribbean Sea. Oct. 3, 2025: The U.S. military killed four people in a strike on a vessel that was allegedly transporting substantial amounts of narcotics, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 3. Oct. 3, 2025: The U.S. military killed four people in a strike on a vessel that was allegedly transporting substantial amounts of narcotics, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 3. Oct. 17, 2025: The U.S. military killed three people in a strike on a vessel alleged to be smuggling drugs for Ejercito de Liberacion Nacional (ELN), Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 17. Oct. 17, 2025: The U.S. military killed three people in a strike on a vessel alleged to be smuggling drugs for Ejercito de Liberacion Nacional (ELN), Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 17. Oct. 21, 2025: The U.S. military killed two people in a strike on a vessel allegedly smuggling illicit narcotics in the Eastern Pacific, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 22. Oct. 21, 2025: The U.S. military killed two people in a strike on a vessel allegedly smuggling illicit narcotics in the Eastern Pacific, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 22. Oct. 22, 2025: The U.S. military killed three people in a strike on a vessel allegedly smuggling illicit narcotics in the Eastern Pacific, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 22. Oct. 22, 2025: The U.S. military killed three people in a strike on a vessel allegedly smuggling illicit narcotics in the Eastern Pacific, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 22. Oct. 24, 2025: The U.S. military killed six people in a strike on a boat in the Caribbean, alleged to be carrying narcotics, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 24. Oct. 24, 2025: The U.S. military killed six people in a strike on a boat in the Caribbean, alleged to be carrying narcotics, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 24. US military conducts deadly boat strikes against alleged drug traffickers 1 of 12 Sept. 15, 2025: The U.S. military killed three people in a strike on a boat allegedly trafficking drugs in the Caribbean Sea.

The Justice Department said in a press release last year that Hernandez received millions in bribes from "violent drug-trafficking organizations" and used the money "to fuel his rise in Honduran politics."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"In turn, as Hernandez rose to power in Honduras, he provided increased support and protection for his co-conspirators, allowing them to move mountains of cocaine, commit acts of violence and murder, and help turn Honduras into one of the most dangerous countries in the world," the press release states.

Trump has made cracking down on illegal drug trafficking central to his second term, imposing tariffs on countries he accuses of not doing enough to stop fentanyl distribution. His administration has also launched military strikes on alleged drug trafficking boats in the Caribbean. Trump told military service members during a Thanksgiving call that he soon will expand the military operation to include strikes on land.

Trump on Nov. 28 also waded into Honduran politics, reiterating his support for Nasry Asfura of the conservative National Party, who Trump said would push back against Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and "his Narcoterrorists."

"Will Maduro and his Narcoterrorists take over another country like they have taken over Cuba, Nicaragua, and Venezuela?" Trump wrote in a social media post. "The man who is standing up for Democracy, and fighting against Maduro, is Tito Asfura."

Contributing: Reuters

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Donald Trump pardoning former Honduran leader Juan Orlando Hernandez
Washington, DC  United States President Donald Trump says he will pardon the former leader of Honduras, Juan Orlando Hernandez, just days before the Central American countrys closely contested presidential election.

The announcement on Friday came two days before Hondurass vote, in which Trump has endorsed conservative National Party candidate Nasry Tito Asfura.

Hernandez was the partys last successful presidential candidate and had served as president from 2014 to 2022. Last year, he was sentenced to 45 years in prison in the US after being extradited from Honduras on charges of drug trafficking.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said that Hernandez has been treated very harshly and unfairly. He cited many people that I greatly respect.

Trump also again threw his support behind Asfura, who is facing four opponents in the scandal-plagued race. No clear frontrunner has yet emerged.

He added that a loss for Asfura would lead to a rupture in US support for the country of about 11 million, echoing a similar threat he made in support of Javier Milei before Argentinas presidential election in October.

If he doesnt win, the United States will not be throwing good money after bad, because a wrong Leader can only bring catastrophic results to a country, no matter which country it is, Trump wrote.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Following Trumps announcement that he would pardon Hernandez, Asfura told the news service AFP that he does not have any connections with the disgraced former president.

I have no ties (with Hernandez), Asfura told AFP in a phone call. He was president of the Republic, the party is not responsible for his personal actions.





The US president and several right-wing figures have previously accused Rixi Moncada, the candidate for outgoing President Xiomara Castros left-leaning LIBRE party, as well as Salvador Nasralla, of the centre-right Liberal Party, of being in the pocket of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Both candidates have rejected the claims, which come as Trump has increased pressure against Maduro. That has included surging US military assets to the region and floating possible land operations.

Drug trafficking conviction

Despite Trumps statements, the decision to pardon Hernandez sits uncomfortably with his administrations pledges to target drug cartels and narcotic smuggling into the US.

That has included designating several cartels as foreign terrorist organisations and launching strikes on alleged drug smugglers in international waters. Rights groups have said the attacks are tantamount to extrajudicial killings and likely violate both domestic and international law.





During his trial, prosecutors accused Hernandez of working with powerful cartels to smuggle more than 400 tonnes of cocaine en route to the US. That included ties to the Mexico-based Sinaloa cartel, one of the criminal groups designated by the Trump administration as terrorists.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Hernandez allegedly relied on millions of dollars in cartel bribes to fuel his political rise.

At the time of his sentencing, former US Attorney General Merrick Garland said Hernandez used his presidency to operate the country as a narco-state where violent drug traffickers were allowed to operate with virtual impunity, and the people of Honduras and the United States were forced to suffer the consequences.
The Trump administration has halted all asylum decisions following the shooting of two National Guard soldiers in Washington DC, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) director has said.

Joseph Edlow said the pause would be in place "until we can ensure that every alien is vetted and screened to the maximum degree possible".

It came hours after US President Donald Trump pledged to "permanently pause migration" from all "third world countries".

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The flurry of immigration decisions come in the wake of Wednesday's shooting, which left one soldier dead and another in a critical condition, and which officials have accused an Afghan national for perpetrating.

While the first of these specifically targeted Afghans seeking to enter the US, other decisions have been far more wide-reaching.

The USCIS - a branch of the Department of Homeland Security - has been told not to approve, deny or close asylum applications it receives for all nationalities, according CBS News, the BBC's US partner.

Its officers can continue to work on asylum applications and review cases up to the point of making a decision, CBS reported.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But few details are known about Friday's directive.

Trump did not name which countries might be affected by his migration pause, which could face legal challenges and has already prompted pushback from UN agencies.

The US president's recent announcements represent a further toughening of his stance towards migrants during his second presidency.

Trump has also sought to enact mass deportations of illegal migrants, cut the annual number of refugee admissions, and to end automatic citizenship rights currently applicable to many born on US territory.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Following Wednesday's fatal attack, the Trump administration temporarily stopped issuing visas to Afghans through the same programme the shooting suspect had, before suspending all immigration requests from Afghans pending a review.

Then on Thursday, the USCIS said it would re-examine green cards issued to individuals who had migrated to the US from 19 countries, without mentioning Wednesday's attack.

The agency referred to a June proclamation that included Afghanistan, Cuba, Haiti, Iran, Somalia and Venezuela. Details on what re-examination would look like were not provided.

Trump then pledged to "end all federal benefits and subsidies to non-citizens" on Thursday.

'Third-world countries'

Trump blamed refugees for causing the "social dysfunction in America" and vowed to remove "anyone who is not a net asset" to the US.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"Hundreds of thousands of refugees from Somalia were completely taking over the once great State of Minnesota," he said.

"I will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the U.S. system to fully recover."

The phrase "third world" is one previously used to describe poorer, developing nations.

Earlier this year, a travel ban was imposed on nationals primarily from 11 African and Asian nations, including Afghanistan. During Trump's first term, he enacted a travel ban targeting multiple Muslim-majority countries.

The UN has urged the US to observe international agreements on asylum seekers, news agency Reuters reported.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump's reaction to the shooting amounted to a "scapegoating" of migrants in the US, argued Jeremy McKinney, the former president of the American Immigration Lawyers Association.

He told the BBC World Service's Newsday programme before Trump's latest remarks that the attacker's motive were unclear, and that radicalisation and mental illness could affect anyone.

"These types of issues - they don't know skin colour, they don't know nationality."

Suspect in DC shooting is Afghan

Officials said the shooting suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, came to the US in 2021.

He travelled under a programme that offered special protections to Afghans who had worked with US forces in Afghanistan before their chaotic withdrawal and the return to power of the Taliban.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mr Lakanwal had been a member of a "Zero Unit" - an Afghan intelligence and paramilitary force that worked with the CIA - a former Afghan defence and security forces member told CBS.

The US considered Zero Units to be among the most respected domestic forces in Afghanistan.

The CIA's current director has confirmed that he previously worked with the US intelligence agency.

He would have been vetted by the US both when he started working with the CIA and when he travelled to the US, a senior US official told CNN.

A childhood friend told the New York Times that Mr Lakanwal had experienced mental health issues after his work with his unit.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Mr Lakanwal was reportedly granted asylum after Trump returned to office, having applied in 2024.

But his request for a green card - which shows a person has permanent residence in the US - is pending, an official told CBS.

[BBC]

Follow the twists and turns of Trump's second term with North America correspondent Anthony Zurcher's weekly US Politics Unspun newsletter. Readers in the UK can sign up here. Those outside the UK can sign up here.
KIGALI, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Senior government officials and industry leaders have called for bold, coordinated action to strengthen and transform Africa's capital markets.

The call was made Thursday during the formal opening of the 28th Annual Conference of the African Securities Exchanges Association (ASEA) in the Rwandan capital Kigali.

Rwanda's Minister of Finance and Economic Planning Yusuf Murangwa highlighted a need to deepen Africa's capital markets, noting that bank lending still accounts for over 70 percent of corporate financing while equity markets remain comparatively shallow.

Calling for efforts to build a strong equity culture rooted in innovation, risk-sharing, he said long-term investment is essential for wealth creation, resilience, and sustained economic transformation across the continent.

He urged bold, collaborative actions to position Africa's financial markets for a stronger, more sustainable future.

Held under the theme "Adapting to Global Market Shifts: Strategies for Resilience and Growth for African Capital Markets for the Future," the three-day conference brings together securities exchanges, regulators, brokers, investors, and other market players from across the continent.

Rwanda Stock Exchange Chief Executive Officer and ASEA President Pierre Celestin Rwabukumba underscored the importance of innovation and stronger partnerships among African exchanges.

He said that modern, interconnected, and well-regulated markets are crucial for accelerating capital market development and supporting Africa's broader economic goals.

Former African Development Bank President Donald Kaberuka urged policymakers and market leaders to seize the moment to push transformative reforms that will enable African markets to compete globally.

"Africa's capital markets are no longer striving to meet global standards; we must begin shaping those standards," he said. "This is our moment to deepen collaboration, drive innovation, and build markets that reflect Africa's true economic potential."

The ASEA annual conference is the association's flagship event, fostering knowledge-sharing and collaboration among exchanges across the continent.

Established in 1993, the ASEA represents more than 30 securities exchanges from Africa's largest and smallest economies and works to strengthen market development and integration. 
President Donald J. Trump used Truth Social to issue a Thanksgiving message outlining an aggressive stance on immigration, targeting both current and future foreign-born residents in the United States. The post included claims about welfare, public safety and specific refugee communities, along with calls for a major reduction in what he described as disruptive populations.

In his post, Trump said he would permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the U.S. system to fully recover. He criticized previous admissions under the previous administration, claiming that millions of migrants were approved through an unauthorized and illegal Autopen process and promised to terminate those admissions.

Trump also called for ending federal benefits and subsidies for noncitizens, denaturalizing migrants who undermine domestic tranquility, and deporting individuals he considers a public charge, security risk or non-compatible with Western Civilization. He described these measures as necessary to achieve what he termed REVERSE MIGRATION and to reduce illegal and disruptive populations.

Start your day with essential news from Salon.

Sign up for our free morning newsletter, Crash Course.

The message included references to Somali refugees in Minnesota, and criticism of local leaders, including Governor Tim Walz and Representative Ilhan Omar. Trump framed the post within a Thanksgiving context, praising American citizens who endure challenges he attributes to immigration while warning that individuals who hate, steal, murder and destroy everything that America stands for wont be here for long.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The post comes amid ongoing national debate over immigration policy, border security and the treatment of foreign-born residents, highlighting the former presidents continued focus on restrictive immigration measures and public benefits.

The post Trumps Thanksgiving message: Only patriotic immigrants welcome appeared first on Salon.com.
President Donald Trump said Thursday that he will permanently pause all immigration from what he called third world countries and demanded a program of reverse migration as he intensified his rhetoric after the National Guard shooting in Washington, D.C.

Trump offered few details as he disparaged and vowed to remove millions of migrants in the U.S. in a lengthy social media post late on Thanksgiving that came hours after he confirmed the death of National Guard soldier Sarah Beckstrom, 20, in the shooting.

Officials have said that Wednesdays attack on two troops was carried out by an Afghan national who worked with a CIA-backed group during the long war in Afghanistan. The incident has served as a catalyst for Trump to escalate his anti-immigrant rhetoric into pledges that would likely face court challenges if enacted and further undermine Americas global standing as a nation welcoming to immigrants.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the U.S. system to fully recover, terminate all of the millions of Biden illegal admissions, including those signed by Sleepy Joe Bidens Autopen, and remove anyone who is not a net asset to the United States, Trump wrote on Truth Social.

On Friday, the State Department took the first step: stopping issuance of U.S. visas for all Afghan nationals.

"The Department of State has IMMEDIATELY paused visa issuance for individuals traveling on Afghan passports," the State Department said in a post on X. "The Department is taking all necessary steps to protect U.S. national security and public safety."

Additionally, Joseph Edlow, the director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, said on X that "USCIS has halted all asylum decisions until we can ensure that every alien is vetted and screened to the maximum degree possible."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

It was not clear exactly which other countries Trump was referring to, with the phrasing used in the past to refer to poorer nations. The Department of Homeland Security referred a reporter from the Reuters news agency to the 19 countries listed in a travel ban in June, mainly in Africa and the Middle East.

The comments drew swift criticism from two U.N. agencies, which on Friday urged the U.S. to continue to accept asylum-seekers.

The president also threatened to end all federal benefits and subsidies to noncitizens of our country and to denaturalize migrants who undermine domestic security.

In remarks that will cause alarm among migrant advocacy and civil liberties groups, Trump said the government would deport any foreign national who was non-compatible with Western Civilization.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He added: Only REVERSE MIGRATION can fully cure this situation.

The Trump administration also said Thursday that the government would re-examine the status of green card holders from 19 countries of concern, including Afghanistan.

In a subsequent post, Trump said that hundreds of thousands of Somali migrants were completely taking over the once great state of Minnesota.

Trump has previously threatened action against Somalis and last week said he would end temporary protected status  which prevents deportations to dangerous countries  for Somali migrants in Minnesota, many of whom have fled a brutal civil war in the East African country.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its unclear how many people this would affect, but a report made for Congress in August put the number of people covered by the program nationally at 705. The president also attacked Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as retarded and said Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., who was born in Somalia, probably came into the U.S.A. illegally and is from a decadent, backward, and crime ridden nation.

Trumps threats, if enacted by legislation or executive orders, are likely to be challenged in the courts. In his first term, Trump banned people from several majority-Muslim countries in the Middle East and Africa from entering the U.S. This was challenged, but eventually the Supreme Court ruled 5-4 in favor of the bans legality.

Migrant advocacy groups have called for calm and warned against using the D.C. attack to call for a wider crackdown on immigration or to remove the rights of Afghan residents.

Using this horrific attack as an excuse to smear and punish every Afghan, every refugee, or every immigrant rips at something very basic in our Constitution and many faiths: the idea that guilt is personal, not inherited or collective, the Council on American-Islamic Relations said in a statement early Friday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

U.N. human rights office spokesperson Jeremy Laurence said at a Geneva press briefing: They are entitled to protection under international law, and that should be given due process.

U.N. refugee agency spokesperson Eujin Byun said: When people who need protection arrive in their territory, they have to have a due process of asylum. And then they have to have access to territory, she said, adding that the overwhelming majority of refugees are law-abiding members of the host community.

The term third world originated in the Cold War era to describe a country that wasnt aligned with the western NATO alliance or the USSR and the Warsaw Pact. This later evolved into shorthand for describing economically underdeveloped nations, particularly ones with high levels of poverty.

The term has been used to describe several African nations, but until the late 20th century was also attached to descriptions of China.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Economists and health experts have for years said the phrase is inaccurate, derogatory and outdated. The World Bank and other global institutions no longer use the phrase and some have suggested also avoiding its successor, developing countries.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
WASHINGTON  An Afghan national who police say gunned down two National Guard members near the White House this week now faces a first-degree murder charge, Jeanine Pirro, the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, said Nov. 28.

The announcement comes as President Donald Trump threatens to curb immigration and refugee settlements from "third world countries."

Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, was initially charged with assault and weapons possession. But after one of the victims, U.S. Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, died Nov. 27, Pirro told Fox News Fox and Friends the charges would be upgraded. The alleged gunman previously had worked with the U.S. military and CIA-backed forces in Afghanistan.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The other soldier wounded in the attack, U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, was fighting for his life and remained hospitalized in critical condition, Trump announced Nov. 27.

More: 'Magnificent person.' National Guard member remembered after DC attack

Two National Guard soldiers stands next to a US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) agent after a shooting in downtown Washington, D.C., on Nov. 26, 2025. Two National Guard soldiers were shot a few blocks from the White House, according to law enforcement. Members of the U.S. Secret Service and other law enforcement agencies respond to a shooting near the White House on Nov. 26, 2025 in Washington, D.C. At least two uniformed military personnel, appearing to be National Guardsmen, have been shot blocks from the White House. A member of the U.S. Secret Service secures the area near a shooting near the White House on Nov. 26, 2025 in Washington, D.C. At least two uniformed military personnel, appearing to be National Guardsmen, have been shot blocks from the White House. National Guard soldiers huddle around law enforcement officers while receiving information after a shooting in downtown Washington, D.C., on Nov. 26, 2025. Two National Guard soldiers were shot a few blocks from the White House, according to law enforcement. 2 National Guard troops shot near White House in Washington, D.C. 1 of 4 Two National Guard soldiers stands next to a US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) agent after a shooting in downtown Washington, D.C., on Nov. 26, 2025. Two National Guard soldiers were shot a few blocks from the White House, according to law enforcement.

"I want to express the anguish and the horror of our entire nation at the terrorist attack yesterday in our nation's capital, in which a savage monster gunned down two service members in the West Virginia National Guard, who were deployed as part of the DC Task Force," Trump said in a Thanksgiving call with service members.

More: Donald Trump used slur in Thanksgiving post. What did it say?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Here are the latest updates about the shooting and its aftermath:

Suspect granted asylum this year  without vetting, Trump administration says

The alleged gunman was granted asylum this year under the Trump administration but officials blamed Biden administration-era vetting for allowing the Afghan refugee to enter the country.

More: Timeline and maps show how the DC National Guard shooting unfolded

A picture of National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom is displayed at a press conference after Beckstrom and National Guard member Andrew Wolfe were shot in Washington on Nov. 26, in Washington, D.C., Nov. 27, 2025. Beckstrom died from her injuries.

Lakanwal arrived Sept. 8, 2021, under a resettlement program set up by former President Joe Biden after the rapid collapse of the Aghan government and takeover by the Taliban.

The program allowed more than 70,000 Afghan nationals into the country under a two-year parole to obtain more permanent status, according to a congressional report. FBI Director Kash Patel and U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro said the administration failed to conduct adequate background checks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

More: Trump ordered a green card review after DC shooting. What it means.

"This animal would've never been here if not for Joe Biden's dangerous policies which allowed countless unvetted criminals to invade our country and harm the American people," White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson said.

Lakanwal applied for asylum in December 2024 and was approved on April 23, according to a document Reuters reviewed. He had no known criminal history.

D.C. residents bring flags for a makeshift memorial set up near the White House after two National Guard members were shot in Washington, D.C., U.S., November 28, 2025.

CIA Director John Ratcliffe said in a statement that Lakanwal had worked with CIA-backed local units in Afghanistan.

"The Biden Administration justified bringing the alleged shooter to the United States in September 2021 due to his prior work with the U.S. Government, including CIA, as a member of a partner force in Kandahar, which ended shortly following the chaotic evacuation," Ratcliffe said. "This individual  and so many others  should have never been allowed to come here."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

--Bart Jansen

Who is Andrew Wolfe, the wounded Guard member?

A picture of National Guard member Andrew Wolfe is displayed at a Nov. 27 press conference after Wolfe and National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom were shot in Washington on Nov. 26, 2025, in Washington, D.C.

Federal and local law enforcement teams patrol the Farragut West Metro station on Nov. 27, 2025 in Washington, DC. Two members of the West Virginia National Guard were shot on November 26 blocks from the White House in what authorities are calling a targeted shooting.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe graduated in 2019 from Musselman High School in Inwood, West Virginia, where Principal Alicia Riggleman said he was an active, engaged and high-achieving student.

"Our thoughts are with Sergeant Wolfe, his family, and others who recover from their recent injuries sustained in the line of duty, Riggleman said in a statement. The Musselman High School community stands proud of their commitment to service and wishes them strength and healing.

Members of the National Guard patrol the Smithsonian Metro Station on Nov. 28 after two National Guard members were shot on Nov. 26, 2025, in Washington, D.C., Nov. 28, 2025.

The school asked members of its community to keep West Virginia Guard members in their thoughts.

"We also keep the other Guardsmen in our hearts as proud West Virginians, the school statement said. In moments like this, we stand together with them and with one another as one West Virginia family."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

-- Bart Jansen

Suspect worked with US military, CIA-backed forces in Afghanistan

Lakanwal entered the United States through a program designed to allow Afghans who had assisted the U.S. military and their families and who were potential targets of retribution by the Taliban to enter the country after the United States pulled out.

The suspect worked with the U.S. military in Afghanistan, according to FBI Director Kash Patel.

A picture of Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national charged in the shooting of two National Guard members, is displayed at a press conference in Washington, D.C., Nov. 27, 2025. Lananwal had worked with CIA-backed forces in Afghanistan, the CIA director later said.

"I also spoke to Director of the CIA Director John Ratcliffe last night and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, Patel said at a Nov. 27 news conference. There is confirmation now that the subject had a relationship in Afghanistan with partner forces."

Washington Metro Transit employees wash blood stains off the sidewalk next to the Farragut West Metro station on Nov. 27, 2025, in Washington, DC. Two members of the West Virginia National Guard were shot Nov. 26 in what authorities are called a targeted shooting.

Ratcliffe told the New York Times that he was part of a CIA-backed Afghan "partner force" in the southern province of Kandahar, a Taliban stronghold during the two-decade war.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Patel said the FBI would investigate the DC shooting as an act of terrorism.

As we speak, our teams continue to work around the clock following every lead and turning over every stone, Patel said.

Shooting investigated as possible terrorism

The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, was shot moments after the attack near the Farragut West Metro station and was hospitalized in serious condition. The motive behind the deadly shooting is currently unknown.

Lakanwal allegedly drove across the country from his home in Bellingham, Washington, where he lived with his wife and five children, Pirro said at a news conference Nov. 27.

Lakanwal is being investigated as a possible terrorism suspect, according to a news release from the Department of Homeland Security.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The suspect was shot moments after the attack and was hospitalized. He was described as a "lone gunman" by Jeffery Carroll, executive assistant chief of the Metropolitan Police Department. DC Mayor Muriel Bowser called the attack a "targeted shooting."

Lakanwal entered the U.S. in 2021 as part of a Biden-era asylum program called Operation Allies Welcome. Trump officials have used the attack to blame the Biden administration for immigration vetting failures.

Following the shooting, the Trump administration began ordering widespread reviews of immigration policies, including the suspension of all immigration requests relating to Afghan nationals and a reexamination of green card holders from 19 countries that were considered "high-risk."

What type of gun was used in the shooting?

The weapon used to shoot the two Guard members a .357 Smith & Wesson revolver, Pirro said Nov. 27.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The handgun, which was introduced in 1935 after Prohibition, is a six-shooter revolver that fires rounds at a high velocity. The gun became popular with law enforcement officers as they battled organized crime for its stopping power and ability to penetrate vehicles.But the gun has more limited ammunition compared to semi-automatic pistols that can carry 10 to 17 founds or more.

National Guard members and other personnel stand outside of the MedStar Washington Hospital Center after the death of West Virginia National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom is announced, a day after she was shot, in Washington, D.C., on Nov. 27, 2025.

Trump decries illegal immigration, 'refugee burden'

In a pair of blistering Truth Social posts from late Thursday night, Trump railed against illegal immigration and what he called the "refugee burden," which he said was "the leading cause of social dysfunction in America."

Singling out the large Somali community in Minnesota, he said "hundreds of thousands of refugees from Somalia are completely taking over the once great State of Minnesota."

President Donald Trump participates in a call with U.S. service members from his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida on Thanksgiving Day on November 27, 2025 in Palm Beach, Florida.

Trump lashed out at Minnesota politicians including Gov. Tim Walz and U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.), calling Walz "retarded" and saying that Omar "probably came into the U.S.A. illegally."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

He added that "I will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the U.S. system to fully recover." In the Truth Social post, he said he hopes to achieve "a major reduction in illegal and disruptive populations, including those admitted through an unauthorized and illegal Autopen approval process. Only REVERSE MIGRATION can fully cure this situation."

Doug Rand, a former senior adviser at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services under Biden, told Reuters: "I think they're just going to potentially accelerate their plans, the plans they've had all along the way, which are not making us safer."

Victim remembered as a 'magnificent' person

Beckstrom, from Summersville, West Virginia, was assigned to the 863rd Military Police Company, 111th Engineer Brigade, and entered service in June 2023, according to a news release from the West Virginia National Guard. She was among the National Guard members deployed to the district in August as part of Trump's response to crime.

Sarah Beckstrom, a West Virginia National Guard member, was fatally shot near the White House on Nov. 26.

Trump on Thursday described Beckstrom as a "highly respected, young, magnificent person." Jeanine Pirro, the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, wrote on X that Beckstrom had volunteered to serve in D.C. on Thanksgiving for "people she never met and gave the ultimate sacrifice."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Beckstroms high school released a statement on social media, saying the school was "shocked and saddened" to hear of the shooting in D.C.

"Sarah, a member of the Class of 2023, has always demonstrated the strength, character, and commitment that make our school and community proud," Webster County High School said. Read more here.

DC shooting: Trump sent National Guard to DC to fight crime. Then two were shot.

Trump orders review of green card holders from countries of 'concern'

Trump directed the review of green cards issued from "every country of concern," according to Joseph Edlow, the head of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announces on Nov. 27, 2025: "In the wake of the shooting of two National Guard service members in Washington, D.C., Wednesday by an Afghan national, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services issued new guidance allowing for negative, country-specific factors to be considered when vetting aliens from 19 high-risk countries. This guidance comes after the Trump administration halted refugee resettlement from Afghanistan and the entry of Afghan nationals in its first year of office."

Edlow announced on Nov. 27 that he has ordered a "full-scale, rigorous reexamination" of every green card holder from 19 countries. The countries include Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, the Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen, Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The new policy went into immediate effect and applies to immigration requests pending or filed on or after Nov. 27, according to the USCIS. The guidance comes after the Trump administration "halted refugee resettlement from Afghanistan and the entry of Afghan nationals in its first year of office," the agency said in a news release.

Afghanistan was one of the nations included in Trumps travel ban in June, in which he blocked the entry of foreign nationals from 12 nations and partially restricted entry from seven other countries into the United States.

W.V. senator supports seeking death penalty against shooter

On Friday, U.S. Senator Shelly Moore Capito of West Virginia said she supported pursuing the death penalty in the case against Lakanwal.

We should be pressing the ultimate charges, the death penalty, for someone who has attacked our National Guard on the streets of Washington, D.C., Capito said in an interview with Fox News' Fox & Friends.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The victims of the Nov. 26 shooting were both members of the West Virginia National Guard and were among thousands of National Guardsmen deployed to the nations capital as part of what the president has said are necessary efforts to combat urban crime in troubled Democrat-led U.S. cities.

On Nov. 27, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi said if the two guard members did not survive, the Justice Department would do everything in our power to seek the death penalty against Lakanwal, an Afghan national from Washington State.

I think the American people will definitely support these charges, Capito said. Its a horrific attack, a terrorist attack on our peacekeepers. Sarah (Beckstrom) and Andrew (Wolfe) were there to keep peace in our capital city, to be part of the presence there so it could be safer, and they were taken down by the very thing they were trying to prevent.

Contributing: Taylor Ardrey, USA TODAY; Reuters

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Murder charge for alleged National Guard gunman
A Tunisian court has handed jail terms to dozens of opposition leaders, lawyers and businessmen accused of attempting to overthrow the nation's president.

Forty people including opposition leader Jawahar Ben Mbarek were handed sentences ranging from four to 45 years over the alleged conspiracy to oust President Kais Saied.

Twenty of those charged have fled abroad and were sentenced in absentia, while others have been held in detention since 2023.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Human rights groups have criticised the trial as politically motivated, characterising the prosecutions as an escalation of Saied's crackdown on dissent since he suspended Tunisia's parliament in 2021 and began ruling by decree.

Tunisian authorities argue the defendants, who include former head of intelligence Kamel Guizani, attemtpted to destabilise the country and topple Saied.

Ben Mbarek and party leaders Issam Chebbi and Ghazi Chaouachi received jail terms of 20 years. All three have been detained since the 2023 crackdown.

The maximum sentence, 45 years, was given to businessman Kamel Ltaif, while opposition politician Khyam Turki received a 35-year term.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ben Mbarek has been on hunger strike for over a month and was at risk of dying, news agency AFP reports, citing his sister and lawyer Dalila Ben Mbarek.

Among those sentenced in absentia was politician and feminist Bochra Belhaj Hmida, as well as French philosopher Bernard-Henri Levy, human rights groups say.

The final sentences were issued by an appeals court after the opposition figures were initially sentenced in April. Saied had branded them "terrorists".

A lawyer for the defendants was quoted by Reuters as describing the trial as a "farce" that had the "clear intent to eliminate political opponents".

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Human rights groups have also been critical of the prosecutions.

Sara Hashash, deputy regional director at Amnesty International, described the sentences as "unjust" and "an appalling indictment of the Tunisian justice system".

She said that while three defendants were acquitted by the appeals court, it had increased others' sentences.

"The Court of Appeal has thereby also rubber stamped the government's use of the justice system to eliminate political dissent."

After the initial ruling in April, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk said the trial had raised "serious concerns about political motivations", and urged the Tunisian government to "refrain from using broad national security and counter terrorism legislation to silence dissent".

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

On Saturday, thousands of Tunisians marched through the capital, Tunis, in an anti-government protest, accusing Saied of cementing a one-man rule through the judiciary and police.

Saied was elected in 2019 after Tunisia emerged from the Arab Spring democracy movement.

But the north African nation has since seen democratic backsliding and the re-imposition of aspects of authoritarian rule.
UK retail leaders have welcomed the Governments latest update on the Employment Rights Bill, particularly changes to unfair dismissal provisions, while highlighting the need for continued engagement on other employment issues.

The update is part of ongoing efforts to modernise employment law and balance protections for employees with operational flexibility for businesses.

Retailers support practical changes to unfair dismissal rules

The Governments update on unfair dismissal rules aims to streamline procedures and clarify protections for workers, particularly in high-employment sectors such as retail.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive of the British Retail Consortium (BRC), described the revisions as a practical step that could protect both jobs and employees.

The discussions concluded that reducing the qualifying period for unfair dismissal from 24 months to six months, while maintaining existing day-one protection against discrimination and automatically unfair grounds for dismissal, is a workable package.

This change is expected to benefit millions of working people who will gain new rights, while providing businesses and employers with much-needed clarity.

To further strengthen these protections, the Government has committed to ensure that the unfair dismissal qualifying period can only be varied by primary legislation and that the compensation cap will be lifted.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Retailers noted that these adjustments reflect meaningful discussions between businesses, trade unions, and government representatives, offering a model for collaborative policymaking.

Concerns remain over guaranteed hours and flexible employment

While the revision of unfair dismissal provisions has been widely welcomed, retailers continue to express concern over other areas of the Employment Rights Bill.

Proposed rules on guaranteed hours could limit the ability of retailers to provide part-time, flexible, or local employment opportunities, which are critical to the sectors workforce strategy.

The BRC has called for further dialogue to ensure these provisions do not inadvertently restrict operational flexibility or harm employment opportunities.

Implementation timeline and industry engagement

Retail leaders have stressed that the delay in the Bills Royal Assent must not lead to a compressed implementation schedule. The Government has invited businesses to participate in consultations, and industry groups such as the BRC are urging sufficient time for high-quality engagement.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Ensuring the Bills provisions are practical for large-scale employers is seen as crucial to balancing regulatory compliance with workforce sustainability.

The updated Employment Rights Bill represents a significant moment for UK retail, with the potential to shape labour practices for years to come. As discussions continue, industry stakeholders are advocating for policies that support both employees rights and business agility.

"UK retailers praise government unfair dismissal update" was originally created and published by Retail Insight Network, a GlobalData owned brand.




The United Nations committee on torture says there is evidence that Israel is operating a "de facto state policy of organised and widespread torture".

The committee regularly reviews the records of all countries which have signed the convention against torture, taking testimony from their governments, and from human rights groups.

During Israel's review both Israeli and Palestinian rights groups gave harrowing details about conditions in Israeli detention centres. It is alleged that thousands of Palestinians have been detained by Israel since the Hamas attacks of October 7th 2023.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Under Israel's laws on administrative detention and on Unlawful Combatants  suspects who cannot be classed as prisoner of war - they can be held for long periods without access to a lawyer or family members.

Many Palestinian families say they have waited months to even find out that a loved has been detained, amounting, the UN committee said, to "enforced disappearance".

The committee was particularly critical of Israel's reported use of the Unlawful Combatants law to detain whole groups of Palestinians, including children, pregnant women, and the elderly.

But it is the reported conditions in detention which make the grimmest reading in the committee's conclusions, published today.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Palestinians, the evidence suggests, are regularly deprived of food and water, and subjected to severe beatings, attacks by dogs, electrocution, water boarding, and sexual violence. Some are allegedly permanently shackled, denied access to a toilet, and forced to wear diapers.

The committee concluded that such treatment "amounts to war crimes and crimes against humanity". It said evidence of a "de facto state policy of organised and widespread torture" by Israel was one of the acts which constitute the crime of genocide under international law.

Israel has repeatedly rejected accusations that it is committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

One committee member, Peter Vedel Kessing of Denmark, said he and his colleagues were "deeply appalled" by what they heard. Committee members also said they were very concerned at the lack of investigations or prosecutions into allegations of torture. They called on Israel to launch independent investigations, and to ensure those responsible, including senior military officers, are held accountable.

Israel, which has long accused the UN of bias against it, did not comment publicly today on the committee's findings, but during the committee hearings its ambassador, Daniel Meron, described the allegations of torture as "disinformation".

He said that Israel was "committed to upholding its obligations in line with our moral values and principles, even in the face of the challenges posed by a terrorist organisation".

In its conclusions, the UN committee took care to unequivocally condemn the Hamas attack of October 2023, and acknowledged the security challenges Israel faces.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

But it also warned that violations of international law by one side did not justify the other side doing the same. Under the convention, to which Israel is a party, the prohibition on torture is absolute: it is not allowed under any circumstances.

Israel's domestic law is less clear however, suggesting that the convention only applies to Israeli territory, and not to the occupied territories of Gaza and the West Bank  an interpretation that many international lawyers dispute.

The findings come amid increasing pressure on Israel over its human rights record. On Friday in Geneva, the UN Human Rights Office said the killing by Israeli soldiers of two Palestinians in the West Bank looked like a "summary execution". Video of the killing showed the two men with their hands up, apparently surrendering to Israeli forces.

And UN aid agencies say conditions for people in the Gaza strip remain dire, despite the ceasefire. Thousands of families are facing the winter cold and rain in tents, they warn, not enough aid supplies are getting in, and Israeli air strikes against what Israel says are Hamas targets continue.
The incident, which occurred during Israeli counterterrorism operations in Jenin, is currently under investigation.

The United Nations said the killing of two wanted Palestinian terrorists in the West Bank by Israeli security forces as they appeared to be surrendering, looked like a "summary execution" on Friday.

"We're appalled by the brazen killing by Israeli Border Police yesterday of two Palestinian men in Jenin in the West Bank in yet another apparent summary execution," UN human rights office spokesperson Jeremy Laurence told a briefing in Geneva.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The two wanted men killed on Thursday appeared to be surrendering during a counterterrorism operation in the West Bank, footage showed.

Investigation into the incident is underway

The Israeli military and police issued a joint statement announcing that they had opened an investigation after forces shot at suspects who had exited a building after an hours-long attempt to convince them to surrender.

The two men who were shot were wanted individuals who were affiliated with a terror network in the area of Jenin, the statement said.

Israeli soldiers detain two Palestinians during an operation in Jenin in the West Bank, November 27, 2025 (credit: REUTERS/MOHAMAD TOROKMAN)

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir issued a statement giving his "full backing" to the military and the police unit involved in the shooting.

The UN's Laurence said: "We heard those comments, and of course, they need to be deplored, because that is a response in any situation with such brutal use of force (that) is nothing short of abhorrent."
Business leaders cheered legislation approved in 2021 addressing workforce issues such as housing, child care and broadband. Shown is downtown Dubuque. (Photo by Perry Beeman/Iowa Capital Dispatch)

The University of Dubuque is reimagining its adult learning programming to increase flexibility for those working to further their education.

The private university announced its Learning Institute for Fulfillment and Engagement, or LIFE, program will offer both synchronous and asynchronous online options for students starting in the spring.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Designed for adults ages 23 and older with at least three years of work experience, the LIFE program runs five-week courses throughout the year in Dubuque and Cedar Rapids. According to a news release, students can earn bachelors and masters degrees in business, human resources, accounting, marketing, criminal justice and health care through the program.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

Adult learners are balancing careers, families, and community commitments and they deserve an education model that works for them, said Lee Noethe, senior director of LIFE admission  Dubuque, in the release. The new LIFE HyFlex format empowers our students to take control of their education and advance their careers with the same quality, rigor, and personal attention UD is known for.

Classrooms at both the Dubuque and Cedar Rapids locations are being updated to provide the best experience for students no matter their method of learning, the release stated, with the addition of cameras, microphones and other technology. This work is already complete in two Dubuque classrooms and one Cedar Rapids space.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The upgraded program and lower tuition combine UDs hallmark personal touch with the latest in educational technology, Noethe said in the release. Weve created a model that meets students where they are, supports them every step of the way, and opens the door to meaningful credentials and careers.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
A Pennsylvania Rust Belt city was ranked recently among the cheapest places to live in America by U.S. News & World Report.

Johnstown, which is about 90 minutes east of Pittsburgh and 90 minutes southwest of State College, is the only city in Cambria County. U.S. News & World Report placed it 16th on its list based on housing costs for renters and homeowners. The publication also includes Johnstown in its best places to live and retire.

Median rent and utility costs in Johnstown are $616 per month, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, about $100 lower than the area and half that of statewide costs. Mortgage payments are likewise lower, at $889 per month, with owner-occupied home values sitting at $42,100. Median home values for the Johnstown area as a whole are more than double that at $116,000, and Pennsylvanias median home value is $240,000.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Income, like rent, is comparatively low in Johnstown. The citys median annual household income is $34,784, half that of the state and a little more than half that of the region.

The Western Pennsylvania city, like many once tied to coal and steel, has seen a steep population decline from its peak in the early 20th century, but that drop has stagnated in recent years. At about 18,000 people strong, Johnstown is a midsize city by Pennsylvania standards and a little less than half the size of nearby Altoona.

A plurality of Johnstown area workers are in education, health care and social services, per the Census Bureau, with retail and manufacturing as runner-ups, in line with statewide trends. The University of Pittsburgh has a branch campus a short drive from the city, and other major employers include hospitals and defense contractors.

Johnstown is bisected by the Stonycreek River and has a few small parks in its downtown. Three state parks lie within a 30-minute drive of the city, as well as state game lands. Blue Knob All Seasons Resort, a moderately sized but challenging ski resort, is 40 minutes outside the city.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Flood City Music Festival, which originally presented folk acts, but has expanded to other genres, takes place each summer in Peoples Natural Gas Park. The space also hosts events throughout the year. Johnstown also has a childrens museum and a museum dedicated to the 1889 flood from which its nickname is derived.

Most Affordable Places to Live in the U.S. in 2025-2026

U.S. News & World Reports full 2025-26 list includes:

1. Decatur, Ill.

2. Enid, Okla.

3. Weirton, W.Va.

4. Springfield, Ill.

5. Mission, Texas

6. Bay City, Mich.

7. Eagle Pass, Texas

8. Fort Smith, Ark.

9. Anniston, Ala.

10. Midland, Mich.

11. Laredo, Texas

12. League City, Texas

13. Broken Arrow, Okla.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

14. Katy, Texas

15. Wichita Falls, Texas

16. Johnstown, Pa.

17. Cedar Rapids, Iowa

18. Dothan, Ala.

19. St. Joseph, Mo.

20. Joplin, Mo.

21. Harlingen, Texas

22. Florence, S.C.

23. McAllen, Texas

24. Florissant, Mo.

25. Battle Creek, Mich.
With the help of a now-defunded program from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Travis Jones and Makeesha Munro spend almost 15 hours a week traveling to various farmers markets and selling their culinary mushrooms to other buyers in Sedalia, Joplin and Springfield (Meg Cunningham/The Beacon).

When Makeesha Munro and her partner Travis Jones started their farm in Collins, Missouri, they didnt expect to be traveling across the state to sell the culinary mushrooms they grow.

Jones was semiretired and looking for a way to leverage their property for additional income. One night, they decided to dive into farming mushrooms. After a few late-night online purchases, Root 54 Farm was up and running.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They made some mistakes along the way. But with the help of a now-defunded program from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, they spend almost 15 hours a week traveling to various farmers markets and selling to other buyers in Sedalia, Joplin and Springfield.

Owning a business is overwhelming, Jones said. Farming is overwhelming. When the two come together, its super overwhelming. So we are really grateful to people who help.

The Heartland Regional Food Business Center was a part of a Biden administration program aimed at increasing the resilience of local food systems following the COVID-19 pandemic. The program aimed to help small and midsized farms with things like market access and technical assistance to help them grow and maintain their businesses.

But under Trump administration budget cuts, USDA terminated the program.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Now, its leaders are figuring out how to move forward under a new moniker  the Heartland Regional Food Business Coalition  and without the millions of dollars in federal funding once used to support their work.

The program reimbursed farmers for big purchases and helped make connections between farmers and potential buyers. Jones and Munro were never selected for monetary support, but the connections they made helped their business take off.

We met a lot of the people we needed to meet, Jones said.

Whats next for the regional food business centers?

Heartland was one of a handful regional food business centers established by the USDA. It officially launched in 2023 to help farmers across Missouri, Kansas, Iowa, Nebraska, Oklahoma and some Arkansas counties.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The group was slated to get $25 million in funding over four years. But it only made one round of grants to farmers before the rest of the funding was rescinded this summer.

In the only round of grant funding under USDA, Heartland provided nearly $4 million in financial assistance to 90 farmers after receiving nearly 500 applications from across the region.

Heartland was preparing for the second round of Business Builder grants  nearly $9 million in funding  and expected over 1,000 farmers to apply. Instead, it got word that federal funds may be pulled.

The group and its farmers ended up waiting six months to see if that money would actually be paid out.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

One farmer was a sunflower producer who was looking for funds to upgrade his packaging process.

He was ready and poised to expand his market this year, said Katie Nixon, who currently shepherds the coalition through New Growth, a rural community development corporation in El Dorado Springs, Missouri.

Because the funding comes as reimbursements, farmers had to make the upgrades before they could see any of the money.

Youre paralyzed  youve gotten this grant and they say, If you spend the money, youre not going to get reimbursed, Nixon said. So do you say, Well forget it, Im just going to go my own way and lose $50,000, or do you wait?

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Along with programs like Local Food for Schools, which was also eliminated earlier this year, the federal initiative was part of a larger effort to promote local food systems across the country.

They took the conditions of the region and really focused to amplify that to provide an unmet demand from the rest of the nation, said Hannah Quigley, a policy specialist at the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition. They were investing in scaling very regional specialized products.

Support from the regional centers across the country resulted in more than 2,600 new partnerships between farmers and buyers, a June 2024 USDA brief said.

The June data also showed the program taking off. Farmers were starting to report improved processing, distribution, storage and aggregation of regional food products as a result of the support from their regional centers under the initiative.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Part of the reason for the success is because the money was there to actually keep people involved in the conversation. There are so many demands on small farmers, Nixon said. Without the possibility of some financial support, it can be difficult to prioritize where to spend your time.

This just helped (relationships) become stronger and more formalized, because you had money to help keep people at the table, Nixon said.

We know that a lot of food and farm businesses came to us for technical assistance because they saw the Business Builder opportunity, Nixon said. So having that funding to be able to offer really gets people motivated.

Only a small portion of federal farm support goes to producers of specialty crops, which includes produce like fruits and vegetables or nursery crops, Quigley said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In the 1970s, the U.S. was a net exporter of those specialty crops. By the mid-1990s, it became a net importer. Still, in 2020 speciality crops contributed nearly $54 billion to U.S. agricultures $363 billion in cash receipts, USDA data from 2022 show.

We have plenty of land and the way that our food system is organized right now, with commodity crops  most of those are grown specifically to send somewhere else to export, Nixon said. What if even just a sliver of that energy was actually to domesticate real food products?

For smaller farmers, having dedicated support for funding and market access could make a huge difference in their success.

Heartland hosts monthly new farmer calls and connects farmers with established mentors to help them grow their specialty crop.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

They were connecting these farmers who might not have immediately known how to get connected to a distributor, Quigley said. I think a farmer could figure it out, but it might take them two full years, potentially three different growing seasons  to figure it out.

From July 2023 to June 2024, the centers nationwide formalized more than 250 partnerships for their farmers. In the last six months of 2024, they finalized 466.

They were trying to reach the farmers who traditionally dont receive USDA loans, Nixon said.

Nixon and her colleagues are looking for sources to make up for some of the lost USDA funding. But what exactly that will mean is still unclear.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Local food is not easy, Nixon said. Were trying to make it easier.

How to build out a regional food system

Part of the difficulty in building up more regional food systems comes from connecting farmers to wholesale buyers who need large quantities of produce.

That was some of what the regional centers were aiming to address.

In some cases, they connected small farmers to an aggregator, or someone who brokered purchases, then they were able to aggregate them, buy from all these small farmers and then sell to a single buyer, Quigley said.

That structure could help incentivize larger purchasers like food banks, states or school districts to buy more local food.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Because of the control wholesale grocery suppliers have over those markets, it can be more difficult for businesses to stray away from what has become the mainstream model for buying food.

Quigley pointed to agreements the USDA has with states that let states take a more hands-on approach to local food purchasing.

That brings those contracts down from a national scale or a 12-state scale, down to a single-state scale, Quigley said. It allows for a greater number of farmers and businesses to be able to successfully bid on those contracts. They dont have to have a distribution network to serve 12 states, they can just serve a single state.

A 2020 local food marketing survey found that the number of farms selling locally produced food fell by 12% nationwide from 2015 to 2020.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Still, Missouri is seeing some growth when it comes to produce farmers. The 2022 Census of Agriculture in Missouri found that the number of farms working in greenhouse, nursery and floriculture production had grown to 485 in 2022, up from 348 in 2017.

In 2021, more than 90% of the farms selling food directly to consumers were considered small farms.

When you buy from somebody local, your money stays local, Munro said. When youre in the local food business, you really get to know people, and we really do support each other. Its part of what I love, it is a community.

This article first appeared on Beacon: Missouri and is republished here under a Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.
BEIRUT, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Lebanon's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants said on Friday that the country has submitted a complaint to the United Nations Security Council, through its permanent mission in New York, protesting what it described as a new and serious Israeli violation of Lebanese sovereignty.

According to a statement from the ministry, the violation involves Israel constructing two T-shaped concrete separation walls in the southwest and southeast of the southern village of Yaroun, within internationally recognized Lebanese borders.

The complaint said the two walls, documented by the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), have led to the seizure of additional Lebanese land and violate UN Security Council Resolution 1701 and the 2024 ceasefire agreement between the two countries.

Lebanon called on the UN Security Council and the UN Secretariat to take immediate measures to stop Israel's violation of Lebanese sovereignty, demand the removal of the two walls, and guarantee Israel's prompt withdrawal south of the Blue Line.

The UNIFIL said in a statement on Nov. 14 that its peacekeepers had conducted a geospatial survey in October of a concrete T-wall installed by the Israel Defense Forces near Yaroun, finding that it extended beyond the Blue Line and cut off more than 4,000 square meters of Lebanese land.

It added that peacekeepers observed additional T-wall construction in November in the same area, with a subsequent survey confirming that part of the new structure also crossed the Blue Line. 
WASHINGTON  President Donald Trump is ramping up lethal strikes on alleged narcoterrorist drug boats as part of a broader pressure campaign against Venezuela, but the administration has not provided the public and Congress with its legal rationale for the attacks.

This week, those Senate Democrats escalated their demands that the Trump administration publicly disclose their legal justification for conducting the attacks as U.S. military assets gather in the waters off Venezuela, possibly for strikes on that countrys soil.

Few decisions are more consequential for a democracy than the use of lethal force," the 13 senators, all members of the Armed Services and Foreign Relations committees, wrote in a Nov. 24 letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

Sept. 15, 2025: The U.S. military killed three people in a strike on a boat allegedly trafficking drugs in the Caribbean Sea. Sept. 15, 2025: The U.S. military killed three people in a strike on a boat allegedly trafficking drugs in the Caribbean Sea. Oct. 3, 2025: The U.S. military killed four people in a strike on a vessel that was allegedly transporting substantial amounts of narcotics, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 3. Oct. 3, 2025: The U.S. military killed four people in a strike on a vessel that was allegedly transporting substantial amounts of narcotics, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 3. Oct. 17, 2025: The U.S. military killed three people in a strike on a vessel alleged to be smuggling drugs for Ejercito de Liberacion Nacional (ELN), Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 17. Oct. 17, 2025: The U.S. military killed three people in a strike on a vessel alleged to be smuggling drugs for Ejercito de Liberacion Nacional (ELN), Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 17. Oct. 21, 2025: The U.S. military killed two people in a strike on a vessel allegedly smuggling illicit narcotics in the Eastern Pacific, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 22. Oct. 21, 2025: The U.S. military killed two people in a strike on a vessel allegedly smuggling illicit narcotics in the Eastern Pacific, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 22. Oct. 22, 2025: The U.S. military killed three people in a strike on a vessel allegedly smuggling illicit narcotics in the Eastern Pacific, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 22. Oct. 22, 2025: The U.S. military killed three people in a strike on a vessel allegedly smuggling illicit narcotics in the Eastern Pacific, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 22. Oct. 24, 2025: The U.S. military killed six people in a strike on a boat in the Caribbean, alleged to be carrying narcotics, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 24. Oct. 24, 2025: The U.S. military killed six people in a strike on a boat in the Caribbean, alleged to be carrying narcotics, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Oct. 24. US military conducts deadly boat strikes against alleged drug traffickers 1 of 12 Sept. 15, 2025: The U.S. military killed three people in a strike on a boat allegedly trafficking drugs in the Caribbean Sea.

The 21 strikes have killed at least 83 people in recent months. Specifically, they are demanding that the Trump administration release a classified Justice Department Office of Legal Counsel written opinion from Sept. 5 on the lethal airstrikes in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The Office of Legal Counsel, also known as OLC, opinion  reportedly drafted over the summer and first reported by The Washington Post on Nov. 12  argues that U.S. military personnel engaged in lethal action in Latin America, including the boat strikes, cannot be prosecuted for it.

Whats unclear, though, is why the administration believes that is the case, and what legal justification it is using to make that determination.

"The declassification and public release of this important document would enhance transparency in the use of deadly force by our Nations military and is necessary to ensure Congress and the American people are fully informed of the legal justification supporting these strikes," the senators wrote. They noted that such memos have been publicly released before.

Some former military and law enforcement officials and legal analysts say the strikes are illegal and amount to extrajudicial killings. Thats also the assessment of the United Nations' High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk, who says the strikes violate international human rights law.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The debate is increasingly fraught as Trump has said the military or CIA may strike within Venezuela itself, and observers -- seeing a U.S. military buildup near Venezuela -- suspect an effort to topple Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro is in the offing.

Six congressional Democrats, including Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona, went so far as to air a video telling their former colleagues in the military and intelligence community that they should refuse to follow illegal orders, in a suspected reference to the Venezuela strikes. Trump, in response, accused the Democrats of making seditious claims that were punishable by death.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro is pictured holding Simon Bolivar's sword as he speaks during a rally at the Fort Tiuna military base in Caracas, Venezuela, on Nov. 25, 2025.

Why is the Trump administration conducting the strikes?

There is no U.S. law that explicitly authorizes the U.S. Navy to attack or sink ships at sea outside of a congressionally authorized war or valid self-defense situation, legal experts and Democratic lawmakers say.

The strikes began in September, but Trump administration discussions about them began soon after Trump moved back into the White House in January.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Emil Bove, at the time the acting deputy attorney general, told Justice Department prosecutors at a February legal conference that the drug boats leaving Venezuela should be attacked and sunk rather than interdicting them as has been the strategy for decades, a former senior Trump Justice Department counternarcotics official told USA TODAY. The official spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss confidential DOJ matters.

Trump has since appointed Bove, his former personal defense attorney, to a federal judgeship.

Trump campaigned on prioritizing fighting transnational drug cartels, especially those smuggling deadly fentanyl into the United States, where the powerful synthetic opioid has killed more than 250,000 Americans since 2021.

But Venezuela is neither a manufacturer nor the main trafficker of fentanyl, which mostly enters the United States via Mexico.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Cocaine is smuggled through Venezuela according to the former DOJ official, Senate Democrats and other counternarcotics experts interviewed by USA TODAY.

More: Maps, video show US strikes on Venezuelan boats allegedly carrying drugs

The suspected smugglers might be aggressive, they might be committing crimes like transporting cocaine, but none of that meets traditional definitions for an attack or an invasion that justifies using lethal force, said Lisa Gilbert, co-chair of the Not Above the Law coalition of more than 150 legal and national security experts who say theyre committed to protecting U.S. democracy and the rule of law.

And because the administration has really defended the legal rationale, certainly the legal debate is going to intensify as Trump moves forward" with military actions in and around Venezuela added Gilbert, who is also co-president of the government accountability nonprofit Public Citizen.

FILE PHOTO: A combination image shows two screen captures from a video posted on the X account of The White House on September 15, 2025, depicting what U.S. President Donald Trump said was a U.S. military strike on a Venezuelan drug cartel vessel that had been on its way to the United States, the second such strike carried out against a suspected drug boat in recent weeks. The White House/Handout via REUTERS. THIS IMAGE HAS BEEN SUPPLIED BY A THIRD PARTY. IMAGE BLURRED AT SOURCE Verification lines: Reuters checked the footage through our AI detection tool and found no evidence of manipulation. however, the footage is partly blurred, making it impossible to confirm if the video is manipulated. Thorough verification is an ongoing process, and Reuters will continue to review the footage as more information becomes available./File Photo

What do the White House, Justice Department and Pentagon say?

The White House, Justice Department and Pentagon did not respond to USA TODAY requests for comment. Spokespersons for the three have been vague in their public comments on what laws the administration is using to justify the attacks  and possible further military action against Venezuela.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

In a Nov. 12 statement to The Washington Post, Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said current operations in the Caribbean are lawful under both U.S. and international law, with all actions in complete compliance with the law of armed conflict.

The Justice Department told Reuters "the strikes were consistent with the laws of armed conflict, and as such are lawful orders."

Trump himself has frequently alleged that Maduro is behind the smuggling as the alleged head of a drug trafficking organization of military officials known as Cartel de los Soles as part of his rationale for ordering the strikes. He has also blamed the Tren de Aragua criminal organization in Venezuela.

In February, the Trump administration blacklisted Tren de Aragua, Mexico's Sinaloa Cartel and other drug gangs as "Specially Designated Global Terrorist" organizations. In August, administration officials said that designation allowed them to use the military to go after Latin American drug gangs  and that they had directed the Pentagon to prepare options.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"We have to start treating them as armed terrorist organizations, not simply drug dealing organizations," Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Aug. 8.

The Trump administration went even further on Nov. 24, designating a Venezuelan criminal organization known as Cartel de los Soles as a foreign terrorist organization. That gives the U.S. expanded use of so-called War on Terrorism statutes passed into law after the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks against the traffickers, allowing it to seize U.S. bank accounts related to the organization, to sanction American citizens providing material support and to authorize the federal government to "take measures to prevent members of these groups from entering the United States."

But those statutes dont specifically allow the killing of suspected terrorists, especially people believed to be drug traffickers, critics say.

In March, Trump invoked the rarely used Alien Enemies Act to justify deporting alleged Tren de Aragua members.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"This is a time of war, because Biden allowed millions of people, many of them criminals, many of them at the highest level, they emptied jails out, Trump said. That's an invasion. They invaded our country.

Legal questions  and concerns  remain

Critics also question whether the Trump administration is invoking another powerful post-9/11 counterterrorism tool known as an Authorization for Use of Military Force, or AUMF, to justify the drug boat attacks.

The AUMF was established to allow the Department of Defense to carry out targeted killings of suspected terrorists, but with one key provision  it requires prior authorization by Congress, Democratic lawmakers say.

Sen. Jack Reed, D-Rhode Island, was one of many Senate Democrats who took to the Senate floor Nov. 6 seeking to stop the boat attacks and further military action without congressional approval.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The suspected drug smugglers are criminals, not ideological combatants waging war against the United States, Reed, the ranking Democrat on the Armed Services Committee, said. If the White House truly believed that these are terrorist organizations and the Defense Secretary truly thinks Tren de Aragua compares to al-Qaida, the administration should come to Congress and request a AUMF. The fact that they haven't is revealing.

Reed characterized it as a bipartisan issue, saying he and Republican Armed Services Committee Chairman Sen. Roger Wicker of Mississippi have sent multiple requests to Hegseth to submit the basic information Congress is legally entitled to: execute orders, legal justifications, and intelligence underpinning individual strikes.

Reed said the Pentagon has taken more than two months to provide only some of the requested information, and has refused to answer simple questions regarding the very limited information that has been provided to date.

Republicans in the Senate have supported Trump, blocking along party lines a Democrat-initiated measure Oct. 8 that would bar the administration from using military force against boats in the Caribbean Sea without authorization from Congress.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This is an attack on the United States by people who have been designated as terrorists, said Senator James Risch, R-Idaho, the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. The president not only has the right, he has the duty to do something about this.

After Republican Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky began going public with his concerns that the attacks amounted to illegal extrajudicial killings, Trump said his administration would be willing to brief lawmakers on the strikes.

But on Oct. 23, Trump said he saw no reason to seek congressional authorization for them.

Instead of asking for a "declaration of war" from Congress, Trump said, "I think were just gonna kill people that are bringing drugs into our country.  Theyre going to be, like, dead.

And, Trump added, The land is going to be next.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump's strikes on Venezuelan boats killed dozens. Are they legal?
Nov. 27 (UPI) -- Foreign nationals from 19 nations of concern will undergo reviews of their visas following Wednesday's attack on two National Guard members in Washington.

President Donald Trump has ordered U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services officials to review the visas held by individuals from those nations.

"At the direction of [the president], I have directed a full-scale, rigorous re-examination of every green card for every alien from every country of concern," USCIS Director Joseph Edlow said on Thursday in a social media post.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"The protection of this country and of the American people remains paramount," Edlow continued in another post.

"The American people will not bear the cost of the prior administration's reckless resettlement policies," he said. "American safety is non-negotiable."

Edlow on Wednesday announced USCIS has stopped all processing of immigration requests from Afghan nationals after West Virginia National Guard members Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and Andrew Wolfe, 24, were shot about two blocks from the White House while patrolling the capital.

The suspect, Rahmanulla Lakanwal, 29, is an Afghan national who entered the United States in 2021 through the Biden administration's Operation Allies Welcome that was intended to protect Afghans who assisted the U.S. military.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Trump and others in his administration have accused the Biden administration of improperly vetting visa applicants.

When asked which nations' citizens will undergo additional scrutiny, USCIS officials directed NBC News to the president's related executive order made in June.

The Trump administration identified a dozen nations as national security and public safety risks and potential sources of terrorism and suspended or limited visa approvals for their respective citizens.

They include Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea and Eritrea. They also include Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen.

The Trump administration also identified seven nations for partial suspension of visa approvals.

Those are Barundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Tofo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela.
The Washington state Capitol building in Olympia. (Photo by Bill Lucia/Washington State Standard)

How best to spend, save and raise money will be a recurring theme when Washington lawmakers convene in Olympia next week for their annual committee days.

The state is facing a budget shortfall thats poised to dominate the 2026 session, which begins Jan. 12.

Data centers, vaccine safety, bridges hit by trucks, and the states mounting legal payouts are other issues to be tackled in the three days of work sessions, which start Wednesday.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

This year, both chambers will be in town at the same time. It will provide a sense of the pace and tenor of policy debates to come in next years 60-day session.

Wednesday, Dec. 3, is reserved for meetings of seven committees composed of House and Senate members. On Thursday and Friday, individual House and Senate committees will meet starting at 8 a.m. each day.

Data Centers will grab the spotlight at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday. Thats when the Joint Committee on Energy Supply, Energy Conservation, and Energy Resilience will hear recommendations of the data center work group established by an executive order from Gov. Bob Ferguson. A report from the work group is due to the governor by Dec. 1. Data centers consume large amounts of electricity, and more are coming online as artificial intelligence technology expands.

Also Wednesday, health insurance costs and vaccine safety will be on the agenda when the Joint Select Committee on Health Care and Behavioral Health Oversight meets at 3 p.m.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Thursday will be dominated by budget-related conversations.

This year, Democratic lawmakers pushed through billions in new and increased taxes, along with spending cuts, to bridge a projected gap around $16 billion over four years.

Concerns about one of the largest new business taxes that took effect Oct. 1 will be a hot topic in the House Finance Committee at 1:30 p.m. Thursday.

Senate Bill 5814 imposes new sales taxes on a number of services and is counted on to bring in $1.1 billion in the two-year budget that began July 1. Local governments will get a cut of the state sales tax proceeds. Rep. April Berg, D-Mill Creek, the committee chair, has said the law needs fine-tuning to make clearer who is required to collect and pay the taxes.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Operating and transportation expenses will be showcased in four different budget committees meeting at 4 p.m. Thursday.

The Senate Ways and Means Committee has a packed agenda with discussions on future tax collections, growing lawsuit payouts, and state pensions.

In the House Appropriations Committee, conversations are planned on the states budget outlook, plus updates on federal funding and Washingtons strained juvenile rehabilitation system.

Highway maintenance and preservation will be a focus of both the Senate and House transportation panels. The Senate Transportation Committee will devote its one-hour work session to the subject.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Meanwhile, members of the House Transportation Committee will get briefed on how the state Department of Transportation is dealing with bridges damaged by truck collisions. Also on the agenda is an update on the Washington State Ferries multi-billion-dollar electrification program.

For the full schedule, agendas and documents, visit the Legislatures website. All meetings will be livestreamed on TVW.
A beloved East Coast convenience store and popular fast food burger chain are set to open new North Carolina locations less than a mile from Horry County.

They will join two other major retail chains that also announced new stores in the same area.

Philadelphia-based store chain Wawa and Freddys Frozen Custard and Steakburgers are building new locations in Carolina Shores, North Carolina, near Calabash.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Wawa has spread across the East Coast with more than 1,100 stores. Currently, the Wawa store nearest the Grand Strand is in Lumberton, about 90 miles away from Myrtle Beach.

But the planned Carolina Shores location will be less than 30 miles from Myrtle Beach, just over the North Carolina state line.

Publix announced in 2023 a new location opening on the northwest coroner of Calabash Road and Highway 17, The Sun News previously reported. A new Walmart also will be built in the same area. Construction has already begun for those stores.

The Brunswick Planning Department approved site plans to build a Wawa and Freddys in September, according to the Wilmington StarNews.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Although there are no plans to expand into South Carolina, the Calabash-area Wawa isnt the only new location opening closer to Horry County. Over the summer, Wawa broke ground on a new store at South 17th St. and Wellington Avenue in Wilmington.

While there are Freddys restaurants in the Palmetto State, the closest location is out in Florence. Like the name suggests, the vintage-inspired chain is known for its frozen treats and hamburgers.

However, there are currently at least two Freddys that are planned for the Myrtle Beach area, The Sun News previously reported. One will be along S.C. 544 and the other along U.S. 501.

Wawa sells a variety of snacks and drinks, but devotees especially love the coffee and sandwiches. Other prepared food options include soups, salads and pizzas.

While opening dates havent yet been announced, fans will have to wait a while to visit. The Sun News has reached out to Wawa and Freddys Frozen Custard and Steakburgers for comment.
NEED TO KNOW

Karly Rae, 37, reportedly pled guilty to sexually abusing a student who was just 15

Rae, who gave birth eight weeks ago, allegedly had intercourse with the minor in October 2024

She will back in court for her sentencing in March 2026

An Australian high school teacher admitted this week to engaging in sexual intercourse with a 15-year-old student on several occasions, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.

Karly Rae, 37, pled guilty to four charges, including sexually abusing a teenage boy, possessing child abuse material, grooming a child for unlawful sexual activity and committing an act with the intention of perverting the course of justice, ABC reported.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

She appeared in court just eight weeks after giving birth to a child, per the outlet, and is now due back in March for sentencing.

Rae had been arrested for the offenses in October 2024  the same month she allegedly engaged in sexual intercourse with the boy, the Australian Associated Press reported.

She was granted bail but then placed back in custody in January after reportedly contacting the teenager multiple times.

In the course of those calls, its alleged (Rae) sought to persuade the complainant to give a false version of events, Justice Hament Dhanji said at a June bail hearing, according to the Australian Associated Press.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The teenager told his mother about the calls, per 7 News. The boy's cousin had seen his social media exchanges with Rae and alerted his parents, who then contacted authorities, according to ABC.

Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases.

In June, the judge granted her bail after taking into consideration personal matters that could not be reported at the time, the Australian Associated Press reported.

The case had reportedly been scheduled to go to trial in August of next year after Rae initially entered a not guilty plea to all charges.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Rae claimed to be unaware that the boy was underage at the time of her arrest, despite the fact that he was a student at the school where she worked, ABC reported.

She lost that job and was ordered to not be alone in the presence of any person under the age of 16 ahead of her sentencing hearing in March.

Read the original article on People
The Wellcome Trust charity has granted 2m ($2.6m) in funding to the UKs Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), advancing efforts to develop clearer and more consistent regulation digital mental health technologies.

The renewed funding will run to Autumn 2028 and give the MHRA and NICE the ability to continue their work on initiatives within a mental health programme that was launched in 2023.

Work already completed by the agencies will be advanced into its next phase with the fresh funds. The MHRA and NICE said they will now focus on establishing a digital mental health technology AI airlock for allowing companies to test new tools with the regulator before wider NHS roll-out.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Other focuses will include undertaking an exploration of international reliance and mutual recognition for the regulation of digital mental health technologies, driving increased quality and evidence for digital mental health technologies in the UK, and considering the challenges in transporting evidence across international settings.

The initiatives will mean better access to high quality, safe and effective digital mental health technologies and clearer information about what they do, how they have been assessed, and the evidence behind them, according to the two entities. And for developers, the plans will provide a clearer framework that supports both innovation and safety.

Wellcomes funding comprises part of its commitment to drive transformation in early intervention for anxiety, depression and psychosis, an initiative the charity said aims to create a world where no one is held back by mental health problems.

Lawrence Tallon, CEO of the MHRA, said: Digital mental health support is becoming part of daily life for many people. When someone turns to a tool to help with their mental health, they need to know it is safe, effective and built on reliable evidence. This funding helps us continue that work.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

By creating clear, practical guidance for both users and developers, we can give people confidence in the tools they use and help responsible innovation reach the public more quickly.

NICE CEO Dr Samantha Roberts highlighted that the work resonates with the UK Labour Governments 10-year plan for the UK National Health Service (NHS).

To achieve this, were going faster to recommend the safe introduction of promising HealthTech with evidence generation by allowing early use so that the NHS and patients can benefit from these promising technologies sooner, Roberts said.

Revealed in July 2025, key plans for Labours NHS transformation plan includes taking steps to shift the health service from being a sick service to one that is preventative. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said this will be achieved with a stronger focus on early diagnosis and screening with the use of technology such as artificial intelligence (AI).

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The 10-year plan is also focused on drawing down patient waitlists and the establishment of community health centres to meet this aim.

Rachel Reeves, the Labour Partys chancellor of the exchequer, delivered her Autumn Budget on 26 November. Resonating with one pillar of the NHS transformation plans, the chancellor told MPs in the House of Commons that the government plans to deliver 100 of 250 new community health centres by 2030. Rollout for the centres will begin in some of the nations most deprived areas, including Birmingham and Truro, Cornwall.

"Wellcome backs MHRA and NICEs digital mental health tech push with 2m funding" was originally created and published by Medical Device Network, a GlobalData owned brand.




Nov. 27MITCHELL  An impactful winter storm is expected to arrive in South Dakota just as Thanksgiving weekend finishes up.

According to the National Weather Service office in Sioux Falls, many residents across eastern South Dakota will fall under a winter storm watch beginning Friday afternoon to Saturday evening. Residents can expect considerable snow and wind, bringing the first true taste of winter to the area.

"We'll have a quiet day Thursday, and then Friday from mid to late morning we'll have snow coming in from the west-southwest," Tim Masters, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service office in Sioux Falls, told the Mitchell Republic. "We're expecting moderate to heavy snow."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The forecast in Mitchell calls for snow, likely beginning after noon Friday and continuing through at least Saturday midday. Snowfall projections for Mitchell indicate between 4 inches and 6 inches of snow are likely, with slightly less expected west of Mitchell and considerably more east of Mitchell.

Other snowfall forecast amounts in the area include between 2 inches and 5 inches in Burke, 3 inches to 5 inches in Platte and Chamberlain, 3 inches to 6 inches in Wagner, 4 inches to 7 inches in Menno, 4 inches to 6 inches in Huron and 4 inches to 8 inches in Sioux Falls. Farther east in Iowa and Minnesota, as much as 11 inches is expected in Spencer, Iowa and 10 inches could fall in Worthington, Minnesota.

Masters classified potential winds as gusty, but less intense than some of the 50 mile per hour gusts experienced earlier this week. Friday and Saturday night could see gusts of 25-30 miles per hour in the Mitchell area, which could cause issues for travelers heading home from Thanksgiving celebrations or on their way to Black Friday shopping.

For the most part, the snow and wind will be moderate but steady over the course of about 24 hours, Masters said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"We had the big wind the other day  50 mile per hour gusts. But this event will be more of a 25 to 35 mile per hour gusts event, and there might be a little bit of blowing snow. But it's not exactly going to be on the windiest scale nor is the snow going to be on the heaviest scale," Masters said. "Maybe some moderate to maybe heavy stuff with the initial bands, especially during the day on Saturday. It's going to be kind of a light snow that lingers on and on."

Snow and winds should ease off once the weekend is in the rearview mirror, but cold temperatures will move in, following the storm's departure. Saturday night will be mostly cloudy with a low near 2 degrees and winds up to 25 miles per hour. Sunday's high is forecast att 14, with a low of -1. By Tuesday, highs will return to the 20s, with lows between single digits and 14.

With winter weather arriving in earnest, Masters urged residents to be prepared in the event severe weather strikes, especially during a busy holiday travel weekend like this one. He suggested monitoring weather radio and checking in with the National Weather Service via their website or on social media.

It's also a good time to make sure emergency travel kits are stowed away in vehicles and ready for use in an emergency, he said.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

"That's what I keep pushing, especially with people traveling back home from grandma's house or whatever. Make sure you have your winter safety kit in your car and don't rush into this. Check on road conditions before you leave, because you might be driving into a mess. Maybe stay a little longer," Masters said.

Winter weather updates can be found by visiting the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls' website at

www.weather.gov/fsd

or by tuning into weather radio. South Dakota travel conditions can also be found by visiting

www.sd511.org.
WAUKESHA, Wis. (AP)  Wisconsin authorities have asked a state court to revoke the conditional release of Morgan Geyser, the woman who in 2014 almost killed her sixth grade classmate in the name of horror villain Slender Man and escaped from a group home earlier this week.

A Waukesha County Circuit Court judge agreed on Wednesday to seal the petition filed by the Department of Corrections late Tuesday seeking to revoke Geysers conditional release. A Waukesha County judge earlier this year approved releasing Geyser from a state mental institution to live in a group home.

Geyser cut off her GPS monitoring bracelet on Saturday night and fled the group home in Madison, Wisconsin, with a 43-year-old companion, authorities said. Geyser was found by police outside of Chicago on Sunday night, about 170 miles (274 kilometers) from Madison.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Geyser did not fight her extradition to Wisconsin in a Chicago court appearance Tuesday. Online records show she had been brought back to Wisconsin and was being held in the Waukesha County jail late Wednesday.

Geyser's attorney, Tony Cotton, did not respond to an email Wednesday seeking comment on the state's request to revoke her release.

The judge set a motion hearing for Dec. 22.

If Geyser's conditional release is revoked, she could be sent back to the mental institution where she spent most of the past eight years. She also could face new charges in connection with her escape.

Geyser's companion has been charged with trespassing and obstruction, but The Associated Press isnt naming the companion because the person hasnt been charged with aiding Geysers escape. The APs attempts to contact that person have been unsuccessful.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

The companion did call WKOW-TV on Monday, however, saying the two became friends at church and had seen each other daily for the past month. Geyser decided to flee because she was afraid her group home would no longer allow them to see each other, the person said.

She ran because of me, the friend told the television station.

Geyser and her companion took a bus overnight into Illinois, the friend said.

Geyser and her friend, Anissa Weier, lured one of their classmates, Payton Leutner, to a Waukesha park in 2014. Geyser stabbed Leutner 19 times, narrowly missing her heart, while Weier cheered her on. All three girls were 12 years old at the time. Leutner barely survived.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Geyser and Weier later told investigators they attacked Leutner in hopes of impressing Slender Man and becoming his servants. They said they were afraid Slender Man would hurt their families if they didnt carry out the attack.

Slender Man was created online by Eric Knudsen in 2009 as a mysterious figure photo-edited into everyday images of children at play. He grew into a popular boogeyman, appearing in video games, online stories and a 2018 movie.

Both Geyser and Weier were ultimately committed to a state mental institution  Geyser for 40 years and Weier for 25. Wisconsin law allows people committed to state institutions to petition for release. Weier earned conditional release in 2021. Geyser, now 23, won conditional release in September after four requests and was placed in the group home.

State health officials tried to block her release in March, telling the judge that Geyser didnt volunteer to her therapy team that she had read Rent Boy, a novel about murder and selling organs on the black market. They also alleged that she has been communicating with a man who collects murder memorabilia, and has sent him her own sketch of a decapitated body and a postcard saying she wants to be intimate with him.

The judge concluded that Geyser wasnt trying to hide anything and proceeded with her release, which was finalized in September.

___

Bauer reported from Madison, Wisconsin.
Virginia State Police said a woman was struck by a vehicle and seriously injured earlier this week on U.S. 11 in Augusta County.

The incident took place Nov. 25 at about 6:45 p.m. near the Augusta County/Rockbridge County line.

The pedestrian, Ashley N. Floyd, 36, of Buena Vista, was hospitalized with serious injuries. The driver reportedly fled, but police said evidence was recovered from the scene.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

That same day, state police arrested Brandon L. Hemp, 30, of Greenville, charging him with felony hit-and-run and driving while suspended, according to state police. He is being held at Middle River Regional Jail without bond.

The crash remains under investigation.

More: Augusta County man sentenced to prison after pleading guilty to rape charge

More: Wilson Memorial senior starts nonprofit to help community

More: Wilson Memorial senior starts nonprofit to help community

Brad Zinn is the cops, courts and breaking news reporter at The News Leader. Have a news tip? Or something that needs investigating? You can email reporter Brad Zinn (he/him) at bzinn@newsleader.com.

This article originally appeared on Staunton News Leader: Woman seriously injured in Augusta County hit-and-run
Hong Kong firefighters are combing through a high-rise apartment complex apartment-by-apartment on Friday (28 November) in a final attempt to find anyone alive after a massive fire engulfed seven of eight towers, killing at least 94 people in one of the city's deadliest blazes. Crews are prioritising apartments from which they received more than two dozen calls for assistance during the blaze but were unable to reach, AP reported Wong Ka Wing, a deputy director of Hong Kong Fire Services, telling reporters early Friday morning.

OCBC Banks internet and mobile banking services for its consumer and business customers have been restored, following a disruption on Thursday evening (27 November). In a Facebook update at 10.10pm, the bank said, "We would like to assure all customers that no customer data was compromised and that their monies remained safe during this time." No reason has been given for the disruption.

Meanwhile, Stranger Things viewers are reacting to the ending of volume one, calling it mad and the wildest TV cliffhanger of the year, according to The Independent. But reviews have been mixed.

Read more in our live blog below, including the latest local and international news and updates.
ANKARA, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Turkiye on Friday condemned Israel for its latest strikes on the Syrian village of Beit Jinn near Damascus, which have killed at least 13 people and wounded more than two dozen others.

The Israeli latest attacks "must be brought to an immediate end," Turkish Foreign Ministry spokesman Oncu Keceli said in a statement posted on X.

Israel has once again demonstrated its "destructive agenda" with its attacks on Beit Jinn, Keceli said.

"Israel is violating Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity through its military operations, posing a threat to civilians and regional stability," he added.

The Israeli assault followed a ground incursion that prompted clashes with local residents early Friday, Syrian authorities, rescue teams, and eyewitnesses said.

The raid marks one of the most lethal Israeli operations inside Syria since the fall of the Bashar al-Assad government in December 2024. 
Looking for a break? Test your knowledge of this week's news from the Yakima Valley.
BEIJING, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- China's top diplomat Wang Yi met with Jonathan Powell, British prime minister's national security adviser, in Beijing on Friday.

Wang, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs, said China and Britain should maintain strategic communication, enhance mutual trust, and strengthen necessary coordination.

China hopes that Britain will view its relations with China from a long-term perspective, adopt a rational and friendly approach toward China's development, pursue a positive and pragmatic China policy and work with China to meet each other halfway, address issues directly, and keep cooperation as the overarching theme of bilateral ties, Wang noted.

He elaborated on China's principle and position on Japan-related issues, and expressed the hope that Britain would continue to adhere to the one-China principle and work with China to jointly safeguard the outcomes of WWII victory.

Powell said that Britain's Labour government is willing to develop a coherent, long-term and strategic relationship with China, and to further enhance regular dialogues with China across all levels.

The two sides also exchanged views on the Ukraine crisis and other issues. 
KAMPALA, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- At least 11 children have died from measles in Uganda's semi-arid northeastern district of Napak since the outbreak was declared two weeks ago, the ministry of health said.

In a situation update issued late on Thursday, the ministry reported a cumulative total of 74 cases and 11 deaths across all 12 sub-counties in the pastoralist communities.

The ministry confirmed the outbreak on Nov. 19 after a suspected measles case was admitted in the children's ward at Matany Hospital on Nov. 15.

"Active surveillance search is ongoing, and the line list will be updated. The mass measles-rubella vaccination campaign has not yet started," the ministry said in the report.

Risk factors identified by the ministry include low measles immunization coverage in the most affected sub-counties, poor housing conditions, household overcrowding and a high malnutrition rate among children under five years.

Last year, the ministry reported a measles outbreak in 56 districts across the East African country.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease transmitted through coughing and sneezing, causing serious illness. Symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes. According to the World Health Organization, symptoms typically appear about seven to 14 days after infection. 
Hungary has vetoed the European Union's four-year higher education strategy, Balazs Hanko, the minister of culture and innovation, said in Brussels on Thursday, adding that Hungary made clear that only once Hungarian students are restored their rightful access to the Erasmus programme will Hungary approve the higher education strategy.

Speaking the journalists after the meeting of EU education ministers, Hanko said the Erasmus programme would be a sticking point "as long as Hungary has a patriotic government".



"As long as Hungary is not governed by Brusselite idiocy that exploits Hungarians and makes decisions in Brussels' interests, our priority will remain getting Erasmus and Horizon back," Hanko said.



Meanwhile, Pinter: National core curriculum to be reviewed in 2026



The National Core Curriculum (Nat) will be reviewed in 2026, Interior Minister Sandor Pinter said on Thursday at a parliamentary committee hearing.



Pinter said that under Hungary's public education law, the national early childhood education programme and experiences with the implementation of Nat must be evaluated regularly - at least every five years.



He noted that several of the original drafters of the curriculum, including literary historian Mihaly Takaro, have been selected for the review body.



Digital teaching materials, he said, would play an increasingly important role in the future.



He also stressed the importance of ensuring the authenticity of textbooks provided for national minorities, which would be regularly reviewed. Progress was being sought in high-quality, accurate textbook translations, with the help of artificial intelligence, he said.



Pinter stated that the government had met its promise to allow Klebelsberg training scholarship recipients to fulfil their contractual employment obligations not only in state-run but also in minority self-government educational institutions after graduation. Previously, this had not been possible under the relevant government decree, he said.



Regarding the centralisation of teacher training, he said that, in cooperation with the Educational Authority and the National University of Public Service, special attention was being given to national minority self-governments.



"I want to maintain and improve the quality of nursery and school-level minority training," the minister said, adding that the government aimed to support minority teacher training and increase the number of participants.



Pinter said significant progress had been made in creating opportunities for the Roma minority.



He noted that in 2025, the government allocated 2 billion forints to the National Roma Self-Government -- several times the previous level of support -- and an additional 270 million forints (EUR 707,000) for Roma civil organisations, cultural initiatives, and 100 million forints for infrastructure development.



Thanks to these measures and support, school dropout rates had fallen, and the number of Roma students graduating from secondary school had doubled, he said.



Hanko: Hungarian university students have right to Erasmus scholarships



Hungary will veto the adoption of the conclusions of the EU education ministers' council meeting in Brussels unless Hungarian university students are reinstated in the Erasmus scholarship programme, Balazs Hanko, the culture and innovation minister, said in a video posted on his Facebook page.



In the video, Hanko - currently in Strasbourg - spoke by phone with Janos Boka, the EU affairs minister, who was in Budapest.



Hanko said he would travel to Brussels on Friday for the education ministers' council meeting, where a vote on the education sector, including Erasmus scholarships, is scheduled.



The draft document states that 23 percent of university students should participate in Erasmus, and 350,000 non-European students should receive Erasmus scholarships.



Hanko noted that he consulted with the presidency of the Hungarian Rectors' Conference last week, and their position was clear: "We cannot accept this. If we are unjustly excluded from Erasmus, then they should not prescribe a 23 percent target. And if Hungarians are excluded, why should non-Europeans be included?"



Boka said this was "an issue that is making me lose my patience." He insisted that the decision to exclude Hungary was ostensibly made to protect the EU's financial interests, but neither Erasmus nor Horizon Europe was a programme where such concerns could legitimately arise.



He added that the measure was "clearly discriminatory and one-sided", as it barred Hungarian students from participating abroad while allowing foreign students to study in Hungary.



"If we have any opportunity to expose this absurd situation and obvious abuse, we should do so," Boka said.



Hanko said he and Boka were in agreement: if the first point of the document up for vote in Brussels does not restore Erasmus for Hungarian students, "then I will veto it".



Boka said he fully concurred: "We must not assist in this legal outrage against us. We must not pretend everything is fine! ... We must use every political tool to rectify this serious injustice!"



Hanko added: "I will speak out and make it clear that Hungarian students are entitled to Erasmus. We won't accept any Erasmus or education strategy until the European Commission withdraws its clearly unjust, clearly politically motivated witch hunt."



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

*********************************************************************************************



You're very welcome to comment, discuss and enjoy more stories via our Facebook page:



Facebook.com/XpatLoopNews + via XpatLoops groups: Budapest Expats / Expats Hungary



You can subscribe to our newsletter here: XpatLoop.com/Newsletters



Showcase Your Business to Expats in the Loop:

As an independent portal were grateful to all commercial supporters who help keep you in the loop with fresh insights and inspiration. Do you want your business to reach tens of thousands of potential high-value expat customers? If so please contact us here.
Magyar is the most visible new face on Hungarys political stage  a former Fidesz insider who turned into a high-profile opposition leader almost overnight. He now accuses the government of nepotism, misusing EU funds, and using state media for propaganda, advocating for policies to combat corruption and restore democratic institutions.

Peter Magyar alleges that Prime Minister Viktor Orban's government enriches friends and family through questionable means, such as privatizing state assets like lakeside hotels through short tenders. He also criticizes the government for spending more on propaganda than on healthcare and education, arguing this has led to a lack of free media.



His political movement Tisza - formed after he left his position as an ex-diplomat and Fidesz party member - aims to restore the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary. A key policy proposal is to empower the police and public prosecutor's office to operate independently of political influence, a concept he calls "road to the jail".



Trained as a lawyer and with a career that included diplomatic and government posts, Magyar served inside the orbit of Viktor Orbans ruling camp for years before breaking publicly with the party in 2024. He is now the president of the Respect and Freedom (TISZA, commonly Tisza) party and has a seat in the European Parliament.



How Tisza went from small party to centre-right challenger



Tisza began life as a minor conservative grouping but changed rapidly after Magyar allied his grassroots movement with the party ahead of the 2024 European Parliament elections. Under his leadership the party repositioned itself as a broadly centre-right, pragmatic force and joined the European Peoples Party (EPP) grouping in Brussels.



That jump  from marginal to a multi-MEP delegation  gave Tisza nationwide visibility and transformed Magyar from a curiosity into a serious political actor.



What does the Tisza party say it stands for?



Tiszas public pitch blends conservative instincts with a strong anti-establishment message. The party campaigns on restoring institutional checks, fighting corruption and breaking what Magyar calls the System of National Cooperation (the informal network of political and economic power that critics say keeps Fidesz dominant).

At the same time Tisza courts voters who want a pro-European, centre-right alternative to both Orban and the fragmented opposition. In practice this has meant keeping policy positions deliberately broad so the party can attract a wide cross-section of disaffected voters.



For expats, the most immediately relevant signals are Tiszas pro-European orientation and its stated interest in re-anchoring Hungary in EU institutions  a difference in emphasis compared with Orbans more confrontational approach to Brussels.



Magyar and his MPs sit with the EPP in the European Parliament, which matters for EU-level politics and for policy areas that affect foreigners living in Hungary (funding, rule-of-law mechanisms, professional recognition and so on).



How Magyar became an anti-Orban figurehead



Magyars trajectory is unusual: a well-connected former insider who publicly resigned from government-linked roles in 2024 and then mounted a rapid media-centred campaign. He tapped largely into voter dissatisfaction with corruption and the concentration of power, attracting voters from across the opposition spectrum as well as some disillusioned Fidesz supporters.



Large rallies, aggressive social media content and high-profile TV and podcast appearances helped him gain traction fast. Observers describe his rise as part political marketing, part legitimate reaction to a crisis of trust in established parties.



Legal and political headwinds



Magyars sudden prominence has brought scrutiny and, at times, pressure. The European Parliament has recently handled requests related to lifting his immunity amid investigations and accusations that critics argue are politically motivated.



Those maneuvers  and the broader climate of legal and administrative pressure used against opponents in Hungary  are part of the environment any challenger faces. International institutions and many EU lawmakers have pushed back against what they see as weaponised prosecutions.



Can Magyar beat Orban?



Short answer: its possible but far from guaranteed. Longer answer: Magyar and Tisza have altered the opposition landscape by consolidating votes that were previously split across several smaller parties and by attracting media attention and urban crowds. That gives them momentum heading into national contests.



But beating Orban in a national election remains a huge logistical and political hurdle:



Electoral mechanics and loyalty networks : Fidesz retains deep institutional advantages at local and regional levels, strong media reach, and networks that mobilise voters efficiently. Those structures are hard to dismantle in a single electoral cycle.

Opposition unity and strategy : Past Hungarian elections showed the danger of a divided opposition. Tiszas rise has alleviated some fragmentation by creating a single, media-savvy alternative  but it has also provoked counterattacks and legal challenges that could complicate a unified campaign.

Public mood and policy credibility: Magyars appeal so far has been strong on anti-corruption and renewal messaging, but converting enthusiasm into a coherent governing program that convinces rural and older voters will be decisive. Polls fluctuate and enthusiasm on the streets doesnt always translate into votes on election day.



In short: Tisza has made the race competitive in ways few predicted a year earlier, but a full regime change would require overcoming structural incumbency advantages, surviving legal and political attacks, and building a functioning, nationwide party machine  not just rallies and viral interviews.



What expats should watch out for



If you live in Hungary or follow Hungarian politics from abroad, watch these signals over the coming months:



Tiszas policy roll-outs on economy, healthcare, and housing  these indicate whether the party is moving from protest politics to governing detail.

Changes in media access and legal actions affecting opposition leaders, which could reshape campaign space.

Local election results and candidate slates: national outcomes will hinge on ground-level organisation.



The Bottom line



Peter Magyar is not just another opposition figure: he is a former insider who has converted that insider knowledge into a fast-growing challenge to Orbans dominance. Tiszas pro-European, centre-right positioning and strong media campaign have raised real questions about Hungarys political future  but translating momentum into a national victory will require time, unity, and an ability to withstand intense pressure from the incumbent system.



Check out the video below for more info.
2025 Guangzhou International Light Festival wraps up with 1.4 million visits and 260 online impressions

The 2025 Guangzhou International Light Festival concluded on the evening of November 26th. By the night of the 26th, a total of 1.4 million visits had been recorded from citizens and tourists visiting the main venues at Huacheng Square and Haixinsha. Online, related topics generated over 260 million impressions.

2025-11-27 22:25:11
The move is part of Facebook's answer to the trend of email newsletters, led by platforms like Substack, as it focuses on reporters "who are often the lone voice covering a given community," the company has said. The publishing platform, which Facebook announced last month, will be integrated with Facebook Pages and include a free self-publishing tool for journalists to send out newsletters or create their own website. Journalists will be able to earn additional money from publishing stories using Facebook`s tools.
Army Chief Asim Munir has morphed from a brutal dictator into a cunning strategist, orchestrating a propaganda campaign designed to turn the world's superpowers against Afghanistan.
BISSAU, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Transitional President of Guinea-Bissau Horta Inta-A on Friday signed a presidential decree in the capital, Bissau, appointing Ilidio Vieira Te as prime minister, who will also concurrently serve as finance minister.

The appointment takes immediate effect, the Presidency's Office of Communication and Public Relations said in a statement, adding that Inta-A made the decision "in the exercise of his powers and responsibilities."

Born in 1983 in the Biombo Region of western Guinea-Bissau, Te is a member of the Social Renewal Party, the country's third-largest political party. He served as finance minister from July 2022 until the recent political shift in the country.

During this year's presidential election, Te was national campaign director for the No Kumpu Guine coalition, an alliance of several political parties that endorsed deposed President Umaro Sissoco Embalo as their candidate.

On Wednesday, Guinea-Bissau's armed forces announced that they had seized full control of state power to counter what they described as attempts to destabilize the country. Inta-A was sworn in as transitional president the following day.

The sudden political shift occurred only a day before the release of presidential election results and stemmed from sharp tensions among competing political forces, according to analysts.

Guinea-Bissau on Sunday launched its presidential and legislative elections. 
TUNIS, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Tunisian President Kais Saied on Friday condemned a European Parliament resolution calling for the release of his critics as "blatant interference" in the country's affairs.

"The European Parliament resolution is a blatant interference in our affairs," Saied said in a video statement. "They can learn lessons from us on rights and freedoms."

The resolution, adopted on Thursday, urged the release of lawyer and Saied critic Sonia Dahmani, who was freed from prison the same day but remains under judicial supervision.

Saied's condemnation came amid a week of diplomatic tensions involving European envoys.

Also on Friday, the Tunisian Foreign Ministry said it summoned the Dutch ambassador, Josephine Frantzen, to lodge a formal protest over an alleged breach of diplomatic protocol.

Foreign Minister Mohamed Ali Nafti conveyed Tunisia's objections and reiterated the need to respect diplomatic norms and avoid interfering in the country's internal affairs, without providing details on the alleged breach. The ministry said the action was taken under instructions from the Tunisian president.

On Tuesday, Saied summoned the European Union ambassador, Giuseppe Perrone, to protest what the presidency described as "failure to respect diplomatic rules" and "the use of practices outside of official frameworks recognized by diplomatic customs." The statement gave no specifics on the alleged violations.

The summons followed Perrone's meeting earlier this week with Noureddine Taboubi, head of the Tunisian General Labour Union (UGTT), a powerful civil society group. Relations between the presidency and the UGTT have been tense in recent weeks after Taboubi announced plans for a general strike to defend workers' rights amid rising living costs. 
BISSAU, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Transitional President of Guinea-Bissau Horta Inta-A on Friday signed a presidential decree in the capital, Bissau, appointing Ilidio Vieira Te as prime minister, who will also concurrently serve as finance minister.

The appointment takes immediate effect. 
People attend a state funeral of former first lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings in Accra, Ghana, Nov. 28, 2025. Ghana held a state funeral on Friday at the Black Star Square in Accra, the Ghanaian capital, for former first lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings. Agyeman-Rawlings was the wife of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, and founder of the 31st December Women's Movement, a non-governmental organization that advocates for women empowerment, children's rights, and social inclusion for the marginalized. (Xinhua/Seth)

ACCRA, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Ghana held a state funeral on Friday at the Black Star Square in Accra, the Ghanaian capital, for former first lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings.

Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama, first lady Lordina Mahama, Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, former Presidents Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and John Agyekum Kufuor, and former Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia joined other dignitaries during the funeral.

There were also past and present ministers of state, members of parliament, and foreign dignitaries, with many distinguished Ghanaians who thronged the venue of the funeral to pay their last respects to the former first lady.

During the funeral, Mahama laid the ceremonial wreath on behalf of the government and people of Ghana in memory of the former first lady, who is remembered for her strong leadership for women's empowerment and gender equality in the West African country.

The president, in his tribute read by his special aide Joyce Bawah Mogtari, said that Agyeman-Rawlings was far more than a former first lady.

"She was a pioneering leader, an unwavering champion of women's empowerment, a trailblazer in our political landscape, and a deeply committed patriot," read Mahama's tribute.

Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, member of parliament and firstborn of the late former first lady, described her mother's passing as "a very humbling experience for us as a family." She expressed gratitude to the government and people of Ghana for their outpouring of love, which has been the comforting factor for her and her siblings and the entire extended family.

Agyeman-Rawlings was the wife of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, and founder of the 31st December Women's Movement, a non-governmental organization that advocates for women empowerment, children's rights, and social inclusion for the marginalized. 

Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama (R) and first lady Lordina Mahama attend the state funeral for former first lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings in Accra, Ghana, Nov. 28, 2025. Ghana held a state funeral on Friday at the Black Star Square in Accra, the Ghanaian capital, for former first lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings. Agyeman-Rawlings was the wife of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, and founder of the 31st December Women's Movement, a non-governmental organization that advocates for women empowerment, children's rights, and social inclusion for the marginalized. (Xinhua/Seth)

Family members of former first lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings pay their respects at her casket during a state funeral in Accra, Ghana, Nov. 28, 2025. Ghana held a state funeral on Friday at the Black Star Square in Accra, the Ghanaian capital, for former first lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings. Agyeman-Rawlings was the wife of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, and founder of the 31st December Women's Movement, a non-governmental organization that advocates for women empowerment, children's rights, and social inclusion for the marginalized. (Xinhua/Seth)

Ghanaian Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang attends the state funeral for former first lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings in Accra, Ghana, Nov. 28, 2025. Ghana held a state funeral on Friday at the Black Star Square in Accra, the Ghanaian capital, for former first lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings. Agyeman-Rawlings was the wife of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, and founder of the 31st December Women's Movement, a non-governmental organization that advocates for women empowerment, children's rights, and social inclusion for the marginalized. (Xinhua/Seth)

Soldiers salute the casket of former first lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings during a state funeral in Accra, Ghana, Nov. 28, 2025. Ghana held a state funeral on Friday at the Black Star Square in Accra, the Ghanaian capital, for former first lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings. Agyeman-Rawlings was the wife of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, and founder of the 31st December Women's Movement, a non-governmental organization that advocates for women empowerment, children's rights, and social inclusion for the marginalized. (Xinhua/Seth)

Soldiers carry the casket of former first lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings during a state funeral in Accra, Ghana, Nov. 28, 2025. Ghana held a state funeral on Friday at the Black Star Square in Accra, the Ghanaian capital, for former first lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings. Agyeman-Rawlings was the wife of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, and founder of the 31st December Women's Movement, a non-governmental organization that advocates for women empowerment, children's rights, and social inclusion for the marginalized. (Xinhua/Seth)
TOKYO, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- A man was attacked by a bear early on Friday inside a public restroom near a train station in Gunma Prefecture, northwest of Tokyo, police said.

Police said the man was mauled by the bear, about 1 to 1.5 meters in length, when he was about to exit the restroom in front of the Numata Station in the early hours of Friday.

The 69-year-old security guard saw the bear looking inside the toilet from the entrance and fell on his backside but fought back by yelling and kicking, causing the bear to flee the scene, police said.

The man, sustaining a slight injury to his right leg, rushed to a nearby police box to report the incident at around 1:20 a.m. local time.

Operations at the train station, centrally located in Numata City, had already finished for the day at the time of the incident.

Police are patrolling the area, urging residents to refrain from going out unless it is absolutely necessary and to secure all doors and windows in their residences.

Japan is battling a spate of bear attacks in 2025 amid a surge in sightings of and encounters with bears. In the seven months through October, the number of bear attack victims across Japan totaled 196, a record high for the same period in the past five years, including 12 fatalities, according to the Environment Ministry's preliminary figures. 
COLOMBO, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- More than 20,500 Sri Lankan military personnel have been deployed for nationwide disaster-relief operations in response to severe flooding and landslides caused by cyclone Ditwah, which made landfall early Friday, the country's army said.

Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo, commander of the Sri Lanka Army, said the military has activated a central operations center to coordinate rescue, relief, and information-sharing efforts across affected districts. So far, a total of 3,490 people have been rescued and relocated.

He said the operations center has been fully operational since Wednesday evening and is working closely with the Navy, Air Force, Police, and the Disaster Management Center.

Rodrigo said the Sri Lanka Army, Navy, and Air Force will jointly manage the provision of meals for displaced families, while relief centers located near military bases will receive direct support from the respective service branch.

The death toll in Sri Lanka related to the cyclone currently stands at 56.

The Department of Meteorology said heavy rains will continue till Sunday. 
KUALA LUMPUR, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- An 11-year-old boy was reported to have died in Malacca state after being swept away into a flood retention pond during the ongoing floods in Malaysia, authorities said on Friday.

The boy was found by emergency workers about 600 meters from his last known location, the Fire and Rescue Department told local media.

Meanwhile, the number of people displaced nationwide stands at 26,928, with victims being housed in 273 flood relief centers as of 1 p.m. local time, according to the country's social welfare department, with Kelantan state being the most severely affected.

The meteorological department has issued warnings of continuous adverse weather including the tropical storm Senyar which is moving inland from the Strait of Malacca. 
ISLAMABAD, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) said on Friday that more than one million Afghans have returned from Pakistan to Afghanistan so far in 2025.

The refugee agency said in a statement that it has increased its presence at border crossing points, where many returnees including a large number of women and children "are arriving cold, exhausted and in urgent need of assistance."

The agency and its partners are providing temporary shelters, relief items and protection services to support families upon arrival.

According to the UNHCR, the intensifying winter and sharply strained humanitarian resources are creating a growing gap between urgent needs and available support.

Without sustained and expanded assistance, the sustainability of returns from both Iran and Pakistan remains uncertain, and onward movement may become inevitable if families cannot reintegrate. 
ISLAMABAD, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Pakistan on Friday reaffirmed its "firm and principled" commitment to the one-China policy.

Pakistan recognizes the government of the People's Republic of China as the "sole legitimate government representing all of China" and considers Taiwan as an inalienable part of China's territory, Pakistan's Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi told Xinhua at a press conference.

"Pakistan and China share an all-weather, time-tested, and deep-rooted friendship and strategic partnership. We are firmly supportive of and uphold the one-China policy," he said.

"We oppose any attempt to create 'two Chinas' or 'one China, one Taiwan.' Our position remains firm, steady and principled," he added. 
YANGON, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar authorities have seized 55 kg of heroin and 5.8 million stimulant tablets in Mandalay region of central Myanmar, the state-owned daily The Mirror reported on Friday.

Acting on a tip-off, anti-narcotics police searched a vehicle in Mandalay's Patheingyi township on Nov. 6 and confiscated the drugs along with one suspect.

Following the investigation, three additional suspects were arrested between Nov. 7 and 16 in three separate townships across Mandalay, it said, adding that one more suspect, who arranged the transportation of the drugs, remains at large.

The seized drugs had a street value of over 8.9 billion kyats (about 4.23 million U.S. dollars), it said.

The suspects have been charged under the country's law, and further investigation is ongoing, the report said. 
MOSCOW, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Moscow has received the parameters of the peace plan for Ukraine adjusted following consultations in Geneva, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Friday.

"The main parameters have been communicated, and there will be a discussion in Moscow next week," Peskov said.

He said that the Kremlin will not disclose all details of the plan, adding that everything will be discussed.

A U.S.-proposed 28-point peace plan was unveiled last week. Following its release, representatives from the United States, Ukraine and several European countries met in Geneva on Sunday to discuss the plan.

Through discussions, the plan has been cut down to 19 points but has not been made public, marking the latest shift in the ongoing diplomatic push to end the Ukraine crisis.

On Wednesday, the Kremlin confirmed that a U.S. delegation, including President Donald Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff and other senior officials, will visit Moscow next week to discuss a possible peace plan for Ukraine. 
ISTANBUL, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Turkish police detained 1,022 people for various crimes during a large-scale security operation across Istanbul, authorities announced on Friday.

The Istanbul Police Department said its "Peace Istanbul" operation was conducted late Thursday, with support from a police helicopter and marine police boats.

Nearly 3,000 officers were deployed across the city, establishing checkpoints, inspecting public venues and conducting ID checks. More than 363,000 people underwent background screening, and 528 of the detainees were suspects wanted for various offenses.

Security teams also seized unlicensed firearms, blank pistols, rifles and ammunition, as well as over one kilogram of illegal narcotics and cash believed to be linked to drug sales.

Authorities inspected nearly 200 companies and carried out extensive traffic checks. Officials said the operation was part of the ongoing efforts to strengthen public safety in Turkiye's largest city. 
BUDAPEST, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- The exhibition "Civilization of the Qin and Han Dynasties - The First Chinese Emperor's Terracotta Warriors" opened Thursday in Budapest, bringing rare Chinese archaeological treasures to the heart of Central Europe.

Showcasing more than 150 ancient artworks from China's Qin and Han dynasties - including ten original Terracotta Warriors - the exhibition is one of the most significant displays of Chinese culture ever held in Hungary, according to Laszlo Baan, director general of the Museum of Fine Arts in Budapest.

In an interview with Xinhua, Baan recalled that many Hungarians still vividly remember the country's first Terracotta Warriors exhibition in 1988. That earlier display left a deep impression on visitors, he noted, but the new presentation is markedly larger in scale and scope.

The exhibition "covers the most important archaeological discovery of the 20th century," Baan said.

He highlighted the visual and technical sophistication of the show, saying that its design reflects years of collaboration between Chinese and Hungarian experts. "The venue, the colors, the lighting, the materials - everything about this exhibition is truly first-rate," he said.

Calling the event a milestone in China-Hungary cultural relations, Baan also underscored its unusually long run. The six-month display, made possible through close coordination with Chinese institutions, will give both Hungarian and international visitors ample time to explore the collection in depth.

Baan expressed confidence in strong public interest, noting how rare it is to see original Terracotta Warriors outside China. As many Hungarians have not had the chance to travel to Xi'an, he said, the arrival of these artifacts offers a meaningful cultural experience.

He also pointed to Hungary's growing Chinese community, saying the exhibition may resonate especially with those who have not visited the original site in China.

Baan added that advances in research and museum technology have enabled the Budapest exhibition to introduce new interpretive elements. Among them is a world-premiere 3D light projection developed in Hungary, which restores the original colors of the Terracotta Warriors on life-size replicas. This innovative feature, he said, gives visitors a vivid sense of how the sculptures looked more than two millennia ago. "It is a remarkable addition to the exhibition," he noted.

The director emphasized that the Museum of Fine Arts in Budapest, together with its Ferenc Hopp Museum of Asiatic Arts, serves as a universal institution with extensive archaeological and Asian collections. Hosting major exhibitions on ancient civilizations is both a responsibility and a source of pride, he said.

Looking ahead, Baan expects the Terracotta Warriors exhibition to rank among the museum's most attended. "I believe we will see several hundred thousand visitors," he said. "I am almost certain it will be among the top three most visited exhibitions in the history of our museum." 
BERLIN, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Germany's lower house of parliament, the Bundestag, on Friday approved the government's 2026 federal budget, paving the way for record public investment next year while projecting widening fiscal gaps over the following four years.

The budget sets federal expenditures for 2026 at 524.5 billion euros (607 billion U.S. dollars), slightly higher than the 520.5 billion euros proposed in July's draft. Most of the additional funds are earmarked for investment.

Since taking office in May, the federal government has placed public investment at the center of its strategy to revive Germany's sluggish economic momentum. Although optimism surrounding the stimulus has dimmed in recent months amid implementation delays, governing parties insist they still expect an economic improvement next year.

According to the core budget, 58.4 billion euros of next year's spending is allocated to public investment. Including additional expenditure financed through extra-budgetary sources - such as the Climate and Transformation Fund and the new infrastructure fund - total federal investment is expected to reach around 126.7 billion euros in 2026, marking the second consecutive record following an all-time high in 2025.

The medium-term fiscal plan foresees annual public investment of roughly 120 billion euros between 2027 and 2029.

Despite winning approval by a vote of 322 to 252, the budget drew criticism from opposition parties. The Greens called it the "largest budget ever," arguing that much of the spending goes toward fulfilling campaign promises rather than addressing urgent economic needs, including the modernization of Germany's aging infrastructure.

The Alternative for Germany (AfD) party said federal spending in 2026 should be cut to 505.8 billion euros and defense expenditures reduced to ensure a swift return to the old debt-brake rules. The party also warned that Germany faces mounting interest burdens in the coming years due to elevated debt levels.

According to the budget, interest payments are expected to reach 30 billion euros in both 2025 and 2026 before rising sharply to 66.5 billion euros by 2029. Cumulative fiscal gaps over the 2027-2029 period are projected to total 172 billion euros. Analysts cautioned that rising borrowing needs and expanding fiscal deficits could pose increasing risks to the long-term sustainability of Germany's public finances. (1 euro = 1.16 U.S. dollars) 
ST. PETERSBURG, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Russian scientists have developed and patented a computer program that uses waste heat from solar panels to desalinate seawater and groundwater, TASS news agency reported on Friday.

According to Olga Kornyakova, a lecturer at South Ural State University's (SUSU) Department of Industrial Heat Power Engineering, the new software is expected to be in demand among industrial facilities involved in chemical water treatment.

She noted that the program addresses the long-standing problem of excess heat produced by solar panel installations, allowing this previously unused thermal energy to be fed into a desalination device.

Kornyakova explained that SUSU researchers had patented a device capable of purifying seawater and groundwater using electricity generated by solar panels. In the past, she said, solar panels would heat up during operations, releasing waste heat that went unused. With the new system, special heating elements are connected to the panels to absorb this thermal energy.

The software automatically collects digital data from these heating elements, calculates temperatures, and displays the water temperature. Researchers said this integration allows the panel-generated water heat to warm other heat-transfer media as well.

Kornyakova added that the program, written in Python, is user-friendly and does not require specialized training. The development is expected to benefit enterprises engaged in chemical water purification and facilities operations powered by renewable energy sources. 
BERLIN, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- A judge at Germany's Federal Court of Justice on Friday ordered a Ukrainian national to be held in custody over his alleged involvement in the sabotage of the Nord Stream gas pipelines.

The suspect, identified as Serhii K., was extradited from Italy on Thursday.

According to a warrant issued by the Federal Court of Justice, Serhii K. allegedly worked as a coordinator of a group that placed explosive devices on the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines in September 2022 and damaged the gas lines linking Russia and Germany.

The Ukrainian was arrested in Rimini, Italy, in August.

The suspect faces charges including jointly causing explosions and anti-constitutional sabotage.

The timeline for further legal proceedings, including a potential trial, remains unclear.

Another suspect was released by Polish authorities after the court blocked the extradition to Germany. 
TBILISI, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Georgian Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili said Thursday that the EU decision to suspend visa-free travel for Georgian citizens would amount to a "major strategic mistake."

If such a decision is taken, it would represent a significant strategic mistake by the EU, particularly by the EEAS, the EU's diplomatic service, she told the Georgian Public Broadcaster in an interview.

"Georgia has fulfilled all requirements to ensure that its citizens face no obstacles when traveling to EU member states," Botchorishvili said, citing Georgia's readmission agreement over migration with the EU, enhanced law enforcement cooperation and joint border-control procedures.

The Georgian foreign minister made the remarks days after the European Council updated rules for suspending visa-free travel for citizens of third countries. According to the Council, the changes adopted on Nov. 17 will allow the EU to react "quicker and more vigorously" to situations in which visa-free travel is abused or works against its interests.

While expressing hope that the EU would reconsider steps that might affect Georgian citizens, Botchorishvili criticized the use of EU-related issues as an instrument of political confrontation.

She said most calls for suspending the Georgia-EU visa-free regime originated from opposition groups and certain non-governmental organizations acting "in a coordinated manner."

"This has become a tool of pressure aimed at shaping a radical political agenda in Georgia," she said. 
BILBAO, Spain, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Standing before Picasso's Guernica on Thursday during his state visit to Spain, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier appeared momentarily transported. The painting's shattered bodies, frantic lines and muted greys seemed to pull him out of Madrid and into another time.

On the next day, when he stepped into Gernika - the town bombed in 1937 by German aircraft - the tones on the canvas aligned starkly with the real ground beneath his feet.

The streets were unusually still. Walking beside him were Spain's King Felipe VI and several survivors of the attack. As they approached the memorial from beneath the trees, no one spoke; only the soft scrape of footsteps on stone could be heard.

A wreath was laid, and a minute of silence followed - a simple ritual weighted with unspoken heaviness. When the official silence ended and the crowd shifted slightly, Steinmeier remained motionless a few moments longer, neither raising his head nor turning away. The stillness felt more eloquent than any prepared statement.

He later visited the Gernika Peace Museum, moving slowly through survivor testimonies and archival images. Speaking to the press, he called Gernika "a place where the horror of war and the vulnerability of innocent people have been indelibly etched into our European memory."

He acknowledged the bombing as "a brutal crime, whose sole target was the civilian population," saying he walked through the town "with humility" and insisting the suffering "must not be forgotten."

Those listening stood quietly. Emilio Apperibai - only eight months old when the bombs fell - told local media that the German president's visit was "deeply moving," adding that it should "serve as a reminder, so this never happens again."

Today, Gernika's houses stand neatly, its trees sway gently, its air is clear. Compared with the ruins of 88 years ago, everything has been rebuilt, yet nothing has been erased. As Steinmeier concluded his visit, he called for defending peace and freedom, saying "that is the message Gernika gives us today."

In this town, the words feel anything but abstract. They move like wind - across old stones, across the canvas, and across a community that insists on remembering. 
WASHINGTON, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said Thursday that it will reexamine green card holders from 19 "countries of concern," including Afghanistan.

At the direction of U.S. President Donald Trump, "I have directed a full-scale, rigorous reexamination of every Green Card for every alien from every country of concern," USCIS Director Joseph Edlow said in a statement on social media.

The announcement comes a day after two National Guard soldiers were shot and critically wounded near the White House by a suspect identified as an Afghan national who entered the United States in 2021. 
WASHINGTON, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday that one of the two U.S. National Guard soldiers who were shot near the White House one day earlier has died.

Sarah Beckstrom, 20, died from her injuries, while her fellow, Andrew Wolfe, 24, remains in critical condition, Trump said in a video as part of his Thanksgiving address to U.S. troops.

Trump said he had been told of Beckstrom's death seconds before fronting the media. The female soldier was from the state of West Virginia and started service in June 2023.

The attack took place at around 14:15 local time (19:15 GMT) on Wednesday near the Farragut Square Metro Station, according to Joint Task Force D.C., which oversees the National Guard deployments to Washington.

The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, is a 29-year-old Afghan national who entered the United States in 2021 and had worked with the CIA previously in Afghanistan, local media reported. He was shot by another service member and is in custody.

The alleged shooter drove across the country to the U.S. capital from his home in Bellingham, Washington state, according to the U.S. attorney for the D.C.

A U.S. official told CNN that Lakanwal was "clean on all checks" before working with the CIA and again before moving to the United States.

Trump on Wednesday described the attack as "an act of terror," vowing to "re-examine every single alien who has entered our country from Afghanistan" during former President Joe Biden's administration and take measures to remove anyone "who does not belong here or add benefit to our country."

Also on Wednesday, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said day that it has halted all immigration processing related to Afghan nationals indefinitely.

Joseph Edlow, director of the USCIS, announced on Thursday that he had "directed a full-scale, rigorous reexamination" of green card holders from 19 "countries of concern," including Afghanistan, at the direction of Trump. 
WASHINGTON, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Thursday his intention to permanently pause immigration from what he described as "Third World countries."

In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump claimed that "immigration policy has eroded" national progress, and he would "permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the U.S. system to fully recover."

He also threatened to take measures to reverse immigration decisions made under President Joe Biden, and to "remove anyone who is not a net asset to the United States."

In his post, Trump also announced plans to end all federal benefits and subsidies to "noncitizens," calling for the denaturalization of migrants who, in his view, "undermine domestic tranquility."

He emphasized a hardline stance, stating he would deport foreign nationals who are deemed "public charges," "security risks," or otherwise "incompatible with Western civilization."

Trump's remarks came following the death of a National Guard member on Thursday after being shot near the White House by an Afghan national. 
WASHINGTON, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Republicans on Thursday threatened to put an indefinite end to Muslim immigration, after a U.S. soldier was killed and another seriously injured in a recent shooting allegedly carried out by an Afghan national.

Sarah Beckstrom, a 20-year-old member of the U.S. National Guard, died from her injuries on Thursday after being shot near the White House a day earlier.

Her fellow serviceman, Andrew Wolfe, 24, who was also shot, remains in critical condition.

The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, is a 29-year-old Afghan national who entered the United States in 2021 and had previously worked with the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in Afghanistan. He was shot by another service member and is in custody, local media reported.

The incident was met with a "furious" reaction from U.S. President Donald Trump and other Republicans, with some calling for an entire ban on Muslim immigration, according to U.S. media outlets.

"We must IMMEDIATELY BAN all ISLAM immigrants and DEPORT every single Islamist who is living among us just waiting to attack," said Republican Senator Tommy Tuberville on Wednesday in a post on social media platform X.

"We know the solution," posted another Republican lawmaker, Chip Roy. "Stop importing Islamists. Deport Islamists."

Trump said on Wednesday that the shooting underscores "the single greatest national security threat" facing the United States. "There is (are) a lot of problems with Afghans," he added.

In a press meeting at his Mar-a-Lago estate on Thursday, he told reporters that "many of these people are criminals" who should not be allowed into the United States, without providing solid evidence for his claim.

He also threatened to take measures to reverse immigration decisions made under former President Joe Biden, and to "remove anyone who is not a net asset to the United States."

The U.S. president also announced plans to end all federal benefits and subsidies to "noncitizens," calling for the denaturalization of migrants who, in his view, "undermine domestic tranquility."

The Trump administration was also mulling a permanent halt to immigration applications from Muslim-majority nations, according to officials.

On Wednesday, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said that it has suspended all immigration processing related to Afghan nationals indefinitely.

Joseph Edlow, director of the USCIS, announced on Thursday that a thorough, rigorous re-examination will be carried out for all green card holders from 19 "countries of concern," most dominated by Muslims, as requested by Trump.

The expanding crackdown has sparked panic among refugees in the United States, many of whom fear arrest by immigration officers or becoming targets of hate speech amid rising xenophobia. Refugee groups have rejected blaming entire immigrant communities for the shooting.

The latest move marked another step in Trump's broader crackdown on immigration in the United States, which has remained a focus of his presidency.

In June, about 2,000 protests were staged across the United States, including in major cities like New York, Philadelphia and Chicago, in response to Trump's decision to deploy military troops in Los Angeles to intensify raids on immigrants. 
WASHINGTON, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump suggested on Thursday that the United States could "very soon" take actions targeting drug trafficking networks in Venezuela by land.

In Thanksgiving remarks to U.S. troops, Trump thanked the Air Force's 7th Bomb Wing for their work to "deter Venezuelan drug traffickers" and said "it's about 85 percent stopped by sea ... and we'll be starting to stop them by land."

"Also, the land is easier, but that's going to start very soon," Trump added, speaking from his Mar-a-Lago estate.

Trump also said that he could still hold talks with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, suggesting a possible diplomatic off-ramp, even as the U.S. military buildup in the Caribbean has reached its largest scale in more than three decades.

Since early September, the Pentagon has carried out more than 20 known strikes on alleged drug vessels in the Caribbean and East Pacific, killing more than 80 people abroad.

The USS Gerald R. Ford, a major aircraft carrier, arrived in the Caribbean earlier this month, intensifying U.S. military presence in the region that has not been seen for at least three decades.

The Trump administration also designated the Cartel de los Soles, a group Washington alleges is run by Maduro, as a foreign terrorist organization earlier this month.

The Venezuelan government said the organization was "nonexistent" and called the U.S. move a "vile lie."

Maduro has also denied having any ties to the drug trade, accusing the United States of "fabricating" a war aimed at regime change in his country. 
Formula 1s drivers sat down with FIA representatives in Qatar on Thursday evening for what the governing body described as a frank, open and collegial discussion on the sports controversial racing guidelines.

The annual meeting carried extra weight this year following a string of contentious incidents that have reignited the debate around how racing is policed.

Introduced in 2022 at the request of the drivers, the guidelines were designed to bring clarity to overtaking and defensive racing. They have been revised twice since, yet questions over their effectiveness have only intensified during the 2025 season.

Thursdays summit also included the three driver-stewards appointed for the 2026 campaign.

Five Incidents Put Under the Microscope

According to the FIA, five cases from this season were reviewed, starting with the three-car clash at Interlagos involving Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Oscar Piastri and Charles Leclerc.

Piastris in-race 10-second penalty split opinion across the paddock, with many drivers arguing the decision was unjust  even though the stewards insisted it aligned with the guideline framework.

The meeting also revisited two major crashes: Carlos Sainzs collision with Liam Lawson at Zandvoort, for which Sainz originally received a penalty that Williams successfully overturned, and the Monza incident between Oliver Bearman and Sainz that resulted in a penalty for Bearman.

Both cases have fueled concerns that a rigid, position-based interpretation of the guidelines fails to reflect the natural flow and nuance of wheel-to-wheel racing.

Drivers reiterated a long-held criticism: that the current document encourages competitors to race to the apex simply to satisfy the wording, potentially creating artificial or unsafe scenarios.

Track-limits controversies were also discussed, notably the Mexico debate over whether Leclerc or Max Verstappen left the track and gained a lasting advantage, as well as Lando Norriss attempted move on Leclerc in Austin, which raised fresh questions about how to judge overtakes where a driver briefly leaves the track.

FIA Emphasises Consistency  but Admits Limitations

While no firm changes were announced, the FIA stressed that internal analysis supports the guidelines overall effectiveness.

In its statement, the governing body noted that data from the past three seasons indicates the document has contributed to greater consistency, adding that teams own studies back this conclusion.

It also reminded competitors that the latest version has been reviewed and agreed with the GPDA, underscoring the drivers role in shaping the system.

The governing body outlined four key takeaways from Thursdays exchange. The first was a clear preference for stewards to delay certain decisions until after a race when necessaryparticularly in cases where input from the drivers involved may lead to a more accurate judgment. Sainz had publicly pushed for such an approach earlier this year.

Read also:

The FIA also said there was consensus that no guideline document can cover every scenario, reinforcing the importance of having experienced driver-stewards on each panel.

Despite some drivers calling for fully permanent stewarding teams, the FIA did not indicate whether that idea formed part of the discussions. The topic has been contentious, with the FIA president and the GPDA previously disagreeing over who should fund a permanent corps.

The remaining points focused on safety-related matters: stronger adherence to yellow-flag procedures and exploring additional safety measures, as well as a review of blue-flag rules to potentially clarify expectations for lapped cars.

Whether the meeting will prompt revisions to the driving-standards guidelines for 2026 remains uncertain. For now, both sides appear aligned on at least one point: that stewarding must continue to evolve if Formula 1 is to balance consistency, fairness and the freedom to race.

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via X and Facebook
Boohoo Group, a key player in the European small-cap sector, has faced significant share price volatility over the past three months. Currently unprofitable and not expected to achieve profitability within three years, it operates with less than one year of cash runway and relies on external borrowing for funding. Despite these challenges, insider confidence is evident from recent share purchases in September 2025. The introduction of AI solutions by Debenhams Group aims to enhance operational efficiency during peak shopping periods, potentially boosting Boohoo's market position amidst evolving retail dynamics.

Operations: The company generates revenue primarily from its Youth Brands, contributing 514.1 million, followed by Debenhams & Labels at 208.4 million and Karen Millen at 67.8 million. Operating expenses have consistently exceeded gross profit in recent periods, with sales and marketing being a significant cost component, reaching up to 346.5 million in some quarters. The net income margin has shown a declining trend, turning negative in the most recent periods, indicating challenges in profitability despite maintaining substantial revenue figures.

Overview: Boohoo Group is a UK-based online fashion retailer focusing on a diverse range of brands, with operations spanning multiple segments including Karen Millen, Youth Brands, and Debenhams & Labels; the company has a market cap of approximately 0.46 billion.

Let's dive into some prime choices out of from the screener.

Amidst renewed concerns about inflated AI stock valuations, European markets have experienced a decline, with the pan-European STOXX Europe 600 Index falling by 2.21% recently. This environment of cautious sentiment presents an opportunity to explore small-cap stocks that may be overlooked yet hold potential due to insider activity and other compelling factors.

Story Continues

AIM:DEBS Share price vs Value as at Nov 2025

Simply Wall St Value Rating: 

Overview: Breedon Group is a construction materials company operating in sectors such as cement and aggregates, with a market capitalization of 1.36 billion.

Operations: Breedon Group generates revenue primarily from its operations in Great Britain (985.70 million), Cement (302.50 million), Ireland (225.20 million), and the United States (206.70 million). The company's gross profit margin has shown significant variation, peaking at 82.31% as of December 2024, reflecting changes in cost management and operational efficiency over time. Operating expenses include substantial allocations for sales and marketing, which have fluctuated significantly in recent periods, impacting overall profitability metrics such as net income margin.

PE: 12.9x

Breedon Group is attracting attention in the European small-cap space, with recent insider confidence bolstered by share purchases in the past six months. Despite carrying significant debt, its revenue and earnings are projected to grow 11% annually. The company relies entirely on external borrowing for funding, which could pose risks. A recent sales statement highlighted steady performance up to October 2025, suggesting potential for future growth amidst cautious optimism within their industry context.

LSE:BREE Share price vs Value as at Nov 2025

Simply Wall St Value Rating: 

Overview: Alimak Group specializes in providing vertical access solutions for various industries, including construction and industrial sectors, with a market capitalization of SEK 6.82 billion.

Operations: The company's revenue is primarily derived from its Facade Access and Construction segments, contributing SEK 1.997 billion and SEK 1.553 billion, respectively. The gross profit margin has shown an upward trend, reaching 40.41% by the end of September 2025. Operating expenses include significant allocations towards Sales & Marketing and General & Administrative activities, with recent figures indicating SEK 911 million and SEK 719 million, respectively.

PE: 22.4x

Alimak Group, a small European industrial company, is attracting attention for its potential value. Despite a slight dip in third-quarter sales to SEK 1,658 million from SEK 1,742 million last year and net income falling to SEK 133 million from SEK 155 million, the company shows promise with earnings projected to grow by over 12% annually. Insider confidence is evident as President Ole Jodahl recently purchased shares worth approximately SEK 1.45 million in November. This move suggests optimism about future prospects despite reliance on external borrowing for funding.

OM:ALIG Share price vs Value as at Nov 2025

Seize The Opportunity

Delve into our full catalog of 74 Undervalued European Small Caps With Insider Buying here.

Are these companies part of your investment strategy? Use Simply Wall St to consolidate your holdings into a portfolio and gain insights with our comprehensive analysis tools.

Unlock the power of informed investing with Simply Wall St, your free guide to navigating stock markets worldwide.

Ready To Venture Into Other Investment Styles?

This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Companies discussed in this article include AIM:DEBS LSE:BREE and OM:ALIG.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
As Gulf markets navigate mixed outcomes amidst hopes for Federal Reserve easing and the impact of soft oil prices, investors are closely watching regional indices for signs of stability. In this environment, dividend stocks can offer a measure of reliability and income potential, making them an attractive option for those looking to balance risk with steady returns.

Top 10 Dividend Stocks In The Middle East

Name Dividend Yield Dividend Rating Yeni Gimat Gayrimenkul Yatirim Ortakligi (IBSE:YGGYO) 5.38%  Saudi Awwal Bank (SASE:1060) 6.53%  Riyad Bank (SASE:1010) 6.78%  National General Insurance (P.J.S.C.) (DFM:NGI) 7.63%  National Bank of Ras Al-Khaimah (P.S.C.) (ADX:RAKBANK) 6.60%  Goltas Goller Bolgesi Cimento Sanayi ve Ticaret (IBSE:GOLTS) 3.52%  Emaar Properties PJSC (DFM:EMAAR) 7.58%  Commercial Bank of Dubai PSC (DFM:CBD) 5.40%  Arab National Bank (SASE:1080) 5.86%  Anadolu Hayat Emeklilik Anonim Sirketi (IBSE:ANHYT) 5.97% 

Click here to see the full list of 63 stocks from our Top Middle Eastern Dividend Stocks screener.

Let's review some notable picks from our screened stocks.

Simply Wall St Dividend Rating: 

Overview: The Saudi Investment Bank offers commercial and retail banking services to individuals, small to medium-sized businesses, and corporate and institutional customers in Saudi Arabia, with a market cap of SAR16.20 billion.

Operations: The Saudi Investment Bank's revenue segments include Retail Banking with SAR1.39 billion, Corporate Banking at SAR1.49 billion, Asset Management and Brokerage generating SAR271.08 million, and Treasury and Investments (Including Business Partners) contributing SAR1.10 billion.

Dividend Yield: 6.2%

Saudi Investment Bank offers a compelling dividend yield of 6.17%, placing it in the top quartile of Saudi Arabian dividend payers. Despite its volatile dividend history, with significant annual drops, the dividends are currently well-covered by earnings at a 55.7% payout ratio and expected to remain sustainable in three years at 49.8%. The bank's price-to-earnings ratio of 9.1x suggests good relative value compared to peers and the broader market.

SASE:1030 Dividend History as at Nov 2025

Simply Wall St Dividend Rating: 

Overview: Arab National Bank offers a range of banking products and services across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, other GCC countries, the Middle East, Europe, North America, Latin America, Southeast Asia, and internationally with a market cap of SAR44.36 billion.
But the reality is that fundamentals also play a role in shaping investors' outlook moving forward. If we're talking about collectibles, fine are or wines, that comes down to basically scarcity and perceived quality.

Again, I don't see Bitcoin as a market hedge, by any means. I'd put those other assets in the same category of speculative long-term growth.

The reality is that cryptocurrencies, in a similar fashion to alternative assets such as collectibles, wine, or fine art, are valued on the basis (generally speaking) of what a given investor thinks another investor will pay for said asset at some time frame down the road. All these alternative assets have climbed in recent years. I think that's mostly a function of the fact that asset prices have seen broad-based rises, allowing the wealthy to continue to put more and more capital into these speculative assets many view as a hedge.

And while I have the view that we could see some pain ahead, given the uncertainty that's been building via various monetary, fiscal and trade policies which are unfolding now, I do think there are some other reasons why Bitcoin could be a solid buy after its recent decline.

And despite some in the crypto sector who may be holding onto the long-told thesis that Bitcoin resembles "digital gold" and holds some sort of store of value argument, I'd say that thesis really has been blown in recent years. If anything, Bitcoin's correlation to other higher-risk equities is sky-high. This is a digital asset I've heard others call a mega-cap tech stock on steroids, providing essentially a much higher beta option for those looking to bet on continued positive sentiment within the riskiest grouping of assets in the market.

Some investors get rich while others struggle because they never learned there are two completely different strategies to building wealth. Dont make the same mistake, learn about both here.

As the world's largest cryptocurrency, Bitcoin (CRYPTO:BTC) matters a great deal to investors looking to amplify their upside in a market that's been pretty consistently driven by risk assets during this bull market rally we've benefited from.

Story Continues

On those fronts, Bitcoin's core usage metrics including active addresses, throughput and episodic fee pressure continue to point to positive underlying fundamentals. On the scarcity front, Bitcoin has a total supply cap of 21 million tokens (with roughly 20 million tokens currently minted). So, whatever's out there is basically what we're working with now.

Those thinking long-term may consider these underlying resilient network fundamentals as a key reason to buy. That thesis is a more solid one than the "digital gold" narrative I keep hearing.

Future Supply Shocks and Lengthening Cycles

Creativa Images / Shutterstock.com

Bitcoin halving visual

On that key topic of scarcity, the remaining 1 million Bitcoin which will be minted will take a significant amount of time to flow into the market. Bitcoin's network was designed this way - accommodating miners who support this network's proof-of-work consensus model with tokens as they validate transactions and secure the network over time.

Concerns around centralization in the world of Bitcoin mining companies has been around for a long time. That said, thus far, the network has remained resilient and not fallen prey to some of the same headwinds other projects in the proof-of-work segment of the crypto sector have.

I think Bitcoin's 2024 halving should support this view, and encourage higher prices to form over time. If that's the case, and miners can show some profitability via higher revenue for mined Bitcoin, this is a network whose stability won't come into question.

Of course, there are diminishing returns with each halving (which takes place roughly every four years), and we may be nearing the point where miners will be forced to look mostly at the transaction fee revenue they receive. But I do think Bitcoin's underlying fundamentals remain among the most robust in the crypto sector, and I don't see this dynamic changing anytime soon.

Institutional Demand

gopixa / Shutterstock.com

ETF visual

Given the aforementioned reality that prices essentially need to continue to rise in order for mining Bitcoin to remain "worth it" for those companies in this space, key demand drivers for Bitcoin will continue to be important to watch.

Perhaps the most important driver of demand right now isn't coming from retail investors piling in. I'd argue most investors are rightly focusing in on institutional demand for Bitcoin either directly, or via a number of exchange traded funds (ETFs) tracking either Bitcoin futures or spot Bitcoin.

Indeed, some of the more recent spot ETFs tracking the price of Bitcoin directly have been very impactful for investor demand. Some in the institutional money management industry don't want to own an ETF that's loosely tied to Bitcoin, either via futures or other treasury companies that hold this digital asset on their balance sheet. Holding Bitcoin directly, or via an ETF that holds tokens in cold storage (offline) can be the best option for asset managers looking for exposure to alternative assets.

For those who believe this dynamic will continue, institutional adoption via spot ETFs (at around 6% of Bitcoin's market capitalization presently) could be the demand driver we're all watching moving forward.

Why Some Investors Get Rich While Others Struggle

The fact is there are two totally different investment paths you can take right now. And while either can make you some money, choosing the right one at the right time can mean the difference between just getting by and getting truly rich. Most people dont even realize the difference, and that mistake can be devastating for your portfolio. Whether youre investing $1,000, or $1,000,000 today, learn the difference and put yourself on the right path. See the report.
ACCIONA Energia has agreed to sell its stakes in two renewable energy projects in South Africa with a combined capacity of 232MW to Cennergi, a subsidiary of Exxaro Resources, for an enterprise value of 255m ($295.36m).

The projects included in the sale are the 138MW Gouda wind farm and the 94MWp Sishen photovoltaic (PV) plant, which have been operational since 2015 and 2014, respectively.

ACCIONA Energia currently owns a 55% stake in each project through ACCIONA Energia Internacional, with AXA owning 20% and Bestinver Infra FCR holding 5%.

The remaining 45% is owned by Royal Bafokeng Holdings (25%), Soul City (10%), and Community Trust (10%).

Additionally, the transaction covers ACCIONA Energias 80% ownership in the company that operates and maintains both assets.

Subject to customary regulatory approvals, the deal is set to close in 2026, and is projected to generate a capital gain of approximately 65m for ACCIONA Energia.

Both renewable assets are supported by project financing amounting to 100m.

The sale further advances ACCIONA Energias asset rotation plan, first announced in November 2023.

Since then, the company has signed agreements for the sale of over 1.4GW of renewable capacity in Costa Rica, Spain, and Peru, totalling over 2bn.

In May this year, ACCIONA Energia started commercial operations at the Forty Mile wind farm in Alberta, Canada.

"ACCIONA Energia sells stakes in two South African renewable assets to Cennergi" was originally created and published by Power Technology, a GlobalData owned brand.




Aegon is considering a divestment strategy outside of the US as part of a review aimed at sharpening business focus on its largest market, reported Bloomberg, citing sources.

The Dutch insurer, which generates most of its earnings from US operations, is working with financial advisers to assess which international units could be sold, the source said.

Aegon UK, responsible for administering retirement accounts, is among the divisions being examined for a potential sale.

Additionally, the possibility of selling Aegon's 51% stake in a joint venture (JV) with Banco Santander was raised. This JV distributes insurance products in Portugal and Spain.

Representatives for both Aegon and Banco Santander did not provide comment to Bloomberg regarding the review.

These considerations follow an announcement made in August regarding an evaluation to move Aegon's primary listing and legal domicile to the US.

Further information on these plans is expected during Aegon's capital markets day scheduled for 10 December 2025.

In 2022, Aegon combined its Dutch business with ASR Nederland for 4.9bn ($5.7bn), enhancing its presence in the Dutch market.

Following this deal, Aegon changed its legal domicile to Bermuda as it no longer operated a regulated insurance business in the Netherlands.

By September this year, Aegon further reduced its involvement in ASR Nederland by reducing its stake from 30% to around 24% through a share sale.

Transamerica continues as Aegon's largest business segment, providing insurance, investment and retirement services in the US market.

Aegon also owns World Financial Group, which distributes Transamericas products.

In an analyst call this month, Aegon CEO Lard Friese said: Our aim is to build Transamerica into Americas leading middle-market life insurance and retirement company.

"Aegon evaluates selling operations outside the US " was originally created and published by Life Insurance International, a GlobalData owned brand.




Another step forward in the fast-growing partnership between the European Union and the countries of Central Asia was made during the 3rd EUCentral Asia Economic Forum, that took place in Uzbekistans capital, Tashkent.

Following this years EUCentral Asia Summit in Samarkand (Uzbekistan), the ministerial meeting in Ashgabat (Turkmenistan), and President Shavkat Mirziyoyevs visit to Brussels in Belgium, the forum became the latest milestone in a year that has elevated cooperation to a new strategic level.

It brought together business leaders, investors, and government representatives from 32 countries. The European delegation was led by EU Commissioners Jozef Sikela and Marta Kos. Sikela highlighted the importance of 2025 for the partnership, calling it The Year of Europe for Central Asia as President Mirziyoyev defined it.

Jozef Sikela, EU Commissioner - Euronews

We are moving from potential to implementation  in digital connectivity, clean energy and transport. Today, I announced three new contracts on critical raw materials that will strengthen governance and open new opportunities for both regions, Sikela told to Euronews.

Signed agreements

In total, six major cooperation agreements worth nearly 100 million were signed in sectors ranging from irrigation and ecology to digital geodata and security:

Signing ceremony between EU and Central Asia - Euronews

DATA4CRM (7.5M)  modernising geological data to attract investors. SECURE CRM (3M)  building transparent supply chains for critical raw materials. GROW CRM (3M)  developing new CRM projects with the EBRD. Aral Sea Project (8.8M + 40M in loans)  restoring degraded ecosystems. - 6. BOMCA (12M) and CADAP (18M)  supporting border security and tackling drug trafficking.

Matteo Patrone, vice president of banking at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), underlined the group's growing presence in Central Asia, with almost 21 billion invested across 1,227 projects to date. The bank and the EU also signed a new 3 million agreement to develop sustainable mining of critical raw materials across Central Asia. This sector is crucial for the green transition, and the region has a lot to offer, Patrone stressed.

Matteo Patrone, Vice President of EBRD - Euronews

EU Commissioner, Jozef Sikela emphasised that cooperation will bring benefits to both sides: Joint projects will create jobs, value chains and economic growth in Central Asia, and at the same time increase Europes economic security and resilience.

Reform momentum draws global attention

William Tompson, head of the OECDs Eurasia Division, described the forum as one of the regions most significant economic diplomacy events.
An updated edition of the Oct. 9, 2025, article.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming industries by allowing machines to process massive volumes of data, uncover patterns and make intelligent decisions. The fast adoption of generative AI, agentic AI, and multimodal learning  accelerated by powerful hardware such as GPUs and TPUs  is driving breakthroughs across healthcare, finance, robotics, cybersecurity and e-commerce. AI now underpins capabilities ranging from chatbots and medical diagnostics to fraud detection and autonomous systems, enhancing organizational agility while significantly improving operational efficiency.



Per Gartner, global AI spending is expected to hit $1.48 trillion in 2025, indicating 49.7% growth over 2024. Per IDC, global spending on AI infrastructure is expected to reach $758 billion by 2029. U.S. tech giants, including Microsoft MSFT, Adobe, Alphabet GOOGL and Meta Platforms META, have been at the forefront of bringing remarkable advances to AI technology, well supported by powerful AI chips from NVIDIA NVDA, Analog Devices ADI and Micron Technology MU. The deals between OpenAI and AMD, as well as OpenAI and NVIDIA, reflect growing demand for AI chips. Alphabets Tensor Processing Units are also gaining traction. Per NVIDIA, spending on AI infrastructure by cloud service providers and hyperscalers is expected to hit $600 billion in 2026, an increase of more than $200 billion estimated at the beginning of 2025.



AI models continue to evolve thanks to strong spending on developing large language models (LLMs). Microsoft-backed OpenAI introduced GPT-5 in August, which offers multi-modal understanding across text, images, audio and more. Anthropics latest Claude Opus 4.5 targets enterprise workflows and advanced agentic use cases. Expanding its generative AI footprint, Alphabet introduced Nano Banana Pro, which is built on Gemini 3 Pro. Alphabet is infusing AI into its search business in order to attract more users, while Meta Platforms focus on integrating AI into its platforms is driving user engagement. Both initiatives are driving ad revenue growth.



We believe that the rapid deployment of AI technology and huge spending on its development efforts offer significant growth opportunities for investors. Our Artificial Intelligence Screen is an invaluable source for identifying AI stocks with massive growth prospects.



Explore 36 cutting-edge investment themes with Zacks Thematic Investing Screens and uncover your next big opportunity.

3 AI Stocks to Buy Right Now

NVIDIA is benefiting from the strong demand for AI and high-performance accelerated computing. The growing demand for generative AI and LLMs using graphics processing units (GPUs) based on NVIDIAs Hopper and Blackwell architectures is aiding data center revenues. The Blackwell Ultra and upcoming Vera Rubin platforms are expected to strengthen NVIDIAs leadership as the AI chip race intensifies. This Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) companys recent partnership with OpenAI, which involves the construction of massive AI data centers powered by NVIDIA systems, is expected to boost long-term demand for its GPUs. You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.



NVIDIA is rapidly gaining traction in enterprise AI, expanding its market beyond cloud providers. NVIDIA CUDA is helping hyperscalers to shift search, recommendations and content understanding from classical machine learning to generative AI. The companys foray into the autonomous vehicles and other automotive electronics space is a positive. NVDA, currently, is on a firmer footing in the autonomous vehicle market. NVIDIA is working with more than 320 automakers, tier-one suppliers, automotive research institutions, HD mapping companies and start-ups to develop and deploy AI systems for self-driving vehicles.



Micron Technology is benefiting from surging demand for HBM and robust DRAM pricing recovery. The pricing benefits are likely to be driven by rising AI server demand, causing a scarcity in the availability of cutting-edge DRAM supplies. This will support Microns margin expansion and profitability.



This Zacks Rank #1 company is capitalizing on the AI boom with its HBM3E solutions, which are increasingly being adopted by major hyperscalers and enterprise customers. Micron is poised to be the key beneficiary of surging AI-related infrastructure spending, as companies continue to build out GPU clusters and AI data centers that require advanced memory solutions. AI PCs are an important part of Microns growth plan. MUs new LPCAMM2 memory is made for AI-ready laptops and workstations that need to handle heavy workloads, such as AI tasks, simulations, and multitasking.



An expanding partner base that includes the likes of NVIDIA, AMD and Intel, is enabling Micron to capture a larger share of the AI infrastructure market. Deepening relationship with major cloud and enterprise customers ensures stable revenue streams and reduces the risk of pricing volatility.



Analog Devices is benefiting from secular growth drivers in automation, AI infrastructure, and automotive electrification. This Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) company is riding on its strong market position in high-performance analog, especially in the industrial, communications infrastructure and consumer markets.



ADI is benefiting from a diversified portfolio and a resilient business model. The company believes that the industrial segment will remain one of its fastest-growing markets in fiscal 2026. Automation demand is rebounding, with increased adoption of software-defined connectivity solutions that enable decentralized intelligence in manufacturing. Additionally, AI-driven demand for automatic test equipment is fueling a surge in Analog Devices signal chain and power content. Accelerating AI investments bodes well for Analog Devices communications segment. Robust demand for ADIs solutions across both wireline/data center and wireless markets is a key catalyst. Analog Devices is also targeting robotics and humanoid markets as a multi-year growth driver for its industrial automation business.
The first prototype will focus on the aircrafts behavior in the air, including cruise and autopilot performance, and fly about 300 hours in test mode. The second unit will focus on testing the air conditioning system for cooling and heating, smoke tests and low-visibility take offs.

The airframer has commenced final assembly line work for the first test aircraft, involving the installation of systems, engines and instrumentation, with the second prototype to follow soon.

What weve learned is that its quite tricky to certify the derivative of an existing certified platform. And the certification authorities are much more demanding than they used to be a decade ago, said Guillaume Vuillermoz, the head of widebody program development, during a virtual briefing for members of the press. And for that reason we have started about a year earlier compared to what we would have done.

Flight testing will be relatively light  about 400 hours  because the freighter only requires an upgrade certification from the latest A350 variant, the A350-1000, and the engine doesnt need certification because the Rolls-Royce Trent engines are totally unchanged. That doesnt mean the process is simple.

Program managers on Tuesday outlined plans for production of two test aircraft and achieving certification for the next-generation widebody freighter, a derivative of the popular A350 composite-frame passenger aircraft. The freighter program was delayed one year by supply chain problems.

Airbus estimates that the new aircraft will be split between 1,120 small aircraft, 855 mid-size widebodies and 630 large widebodies. Overall, of the 2,605 additional freighters, 1,670 will be conversions from passenger aircraft and 935 will be production freighters.

The company last month released a 20-year forecast calling for shipping demand to grow at a 3.3% compounded annual rate, helping to drive a 45% increase in the worldwide fleet of dedicated freighter aircraft to 3,420 units  815 existing freighters and 2,605 new units. The majority of new builds (1,530) will replace older aircraft and the rest will be for growth.

Airbus has passenger-to-freighter conversion programs for smaller aircraft, but until 2021 had never participated in the large freighter market. It currently has 82 firm orders from 13 airlines and leasing companies, compared to more than 50 orders at Boeing for the next-generation 777-8 freighter.

Airbus is conducting rigorous systems ground tests as it gears up for a nine-month campaign of flight tests for the all-new A350 freighter beginning next October with hopes of getting the first aircraft in service by the end of 2027.

Story Continues

Airbus has more than 30 sets of ground test equipment that are currently checking the functionality and endurance of operating systems, including for environmental control, fog detection, tail-tip warning and cargo loading, said Vuillermoz. Two specialized facilities are validating the cargo door actuation and capabilities of the automated cargo loading system.

The goal is to obtain concurrent certifications from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration, said lead flight test engineer Laurent Bussiere.

The aerospace giant designed the A350F with a customer wish list of features, including perfect ground stability and in-flight balance when fully loaded, independent pallet loading systems for the main and lower decks, volume to carry outsize loads such as aircraft engines, highly-accurate temperature controlled cargo areas and digital connectivity between the cockpit, cargo and cargo compartment, said Joel Rocker, chief engineer for the A350 project.

The main deck cargo door, for example, is 175 inches across, wider than any cargo door in the market, and the extra reinforced floor will allow pallets with a higher maximum weight, providing flexibility for transporting all manner of goods. Another welcome feature is the watertight main-deck floor, which will allow operators to clean corrosive substances and other dirt without having to worry about corrosion or dry cleaning.

That will improve, significantly, the operability and the cost of operation, he said.

A section of the A350 freighter arrives at Airbus Toulouse assembly plant. (Photo: Airbus)

Crew upgrades include windows in the galley area and segregated air recirculation for the cockpit area and the cargo compartment, where livestock or other shipments could create unwanted odors.

The A350F can haul up to 111 metric tons, comparable to that of a Boeing 747-400, with a range of 4,700 nautical miles. Powered by the latest Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, the aircraft will reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions by 40% compared to previous generation aircraft with a similar payload-range capability, according to Airbus.

Rocker said Airbus has taken a cautious approach on the payload, but is likely to increase the maximum allowable takeoff weight once engineers gather data on how the A350F behaves in real-world operations.

Shipping demand supports production growth

Between 2019 and 2024, the freighter fleet recorded its strongest period of growth, expanding by 33%. The surge was fuelled by heightened demand for goods and air transport when the Covid pandemic disrupted normal supply chain flows. All-cargo carriers and leasing companies heavily invested in feedstock for converting narrowbody aircraft, especially the Boeing 737-800 and Airbus A321, creating a short-term glut. The aerospace manufacturers and aviation experts expect a large number of large freighter retirements in the next few years because airlines held onto assets longer than planned during the Covid era, when freight rates soared.

Airbus has a more conservative outlook about air cargo market growth and fleet expansion than rival Boeing.

Rival Boeing projects a 67% increase in the global freighter fleet by 2044. Last summer it forecast 2,900 new freighters will enter the market, about 300 more than the Airbus estimate, of which 855 will be large widebody aircraft.

Meanwhile, London-based aviation market intelligence and consulting company IBA recently estimated that the global freighter fleet will grow by almost 4,000 aircraft, marking a 41% increase from 2024s figure of 2,800 in-service aircraft. IBAs outlook calls for about 2,000 passenger-to-freighter conversions and 900 factory deliveries to drive fleet growth.

Boeing forecast air cargo volumes to grow 3.7% annually. The bottom line is both aircraft manufacturers expect volumes to approximately double over the next two decades.

IBA is even more tempered than Airbus, predicting air cargo shipment volumes will only grow about 1% to 2% per year, as geopolitical conflicts and rising tariff policies cause businesses to diversify their supply chains, especially from China to other countries in the Asia-Pacific like Vietnam and the Philippines, and look at souring goods near their home base.

At the same time, countries like Brazil and Indonesia are becoming stronger economies and opening up to trade, which is attracting freight transportation. Meanwhile, e-commerce remains a standout sector for demand, with IBA anticipating growth of 6% to 7% by 2030, well above global GDP forecasts for the same period.

Although these trends will alter the global air freight flows they wont hurt overall demand, according to Airbus.

In 2025, air cargo volumes so far have grown about 4% year over year. While a significant drop from last year, when demand grew about 12%, but many still feel the market is solid considering that demand was expected to cool off and fears of a contraction after the Trump administration launched tariff wars early this year.

Boeing is finalizing development of the 777-8 for commercial release in 2028. It will cease producing the legacy 767 and 777 freighters at the end of 2027.

Click here for more FreightWaves stories by Eric Kulisch.

Sign up for the biweekly PostalMag newsletter The Delivery here.

RECOMMENDED READING:

Boeing raises outlook for widebody freighters as 777-8 production begins

Airbus nabs five orders for A350 freighters at Dubai Air Show

Air Lease confirms canceled order for Airbus A350 freighter

The post Airbus finalizes A350 freighter prototype for test flights, certification appeared first on FreightWaves.
Endeavour Silver Corp. (NYSE:EXK) is one of the best silver mining stocks to invest in right now. On November 10, Alliance Global Partners raised its price target for Endeavour Silver Corp. (NYSE:EXK) to $7.75 from $6 and maintained a Buy rating on the stock. The firms decision is based on what it described as Endeavours mixed Q3 2025 earnings report.

Alliance Global Partners Lifts Endeavour Silver (EXK) Target to $7.75, Keeps Buy

In the Q3 2025 earnings report, Endeavour reported $111 million in revenue, which is 109% higher than Q3 2024. The growth was driven by record silver sales and higher metal prices. However, this fell short of analyst estimates by 9.32%. EPS also undershot expectations by 131.85%  the reported EPS was -$0.01 against the projected $0.0314.

Silver production soared 102% to 1.77 million ounces, thanks to the new contribution from the Kolpa mine and higher throughput at Guanacevi, noted management. However, gold production dropped 22% to 7,285 ounces due to lower grades at Bolanitos.

Commenting on the earnings, CEO Dan Dickson described the quarter as transformational but acknowledged the short-term financial noise. To him, the derivative losses, while hurting reported earnings, are a non-cash reflection of the companys hedging strategy in a rising price environment.

Endeavour Silver Corp. (NYSE:EXK) is a Canadian mid-tier precious metals mining company. It engages in the acquisition, exploration, development, extraction, processing, and refining of mineral properties, primarily in Mexico and Peru. Its main products are silver bullion and gold bullion.

While we acknowledge the potential of EXK 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.

READ NEXT: 12 Best Consumer Goods Stocks Billionaires Are Quietly Buying and Goldman Sachs Penny Stocks: Top 12 Stock Picks.

Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
By Aditya Kalra and Arpan Chaturvedi

NEW DELHI (Reuters) -Apple is challenging India's new antitrust penalty law under which the U.S. company could potentially face a fine of up to $38 billion, a court filing at the Delhi High Court, seen by Reuters, shows.

The challenge is the first against India's antitrust penalty law that since last year allows the Competition Commission of India (CCI) to use global turnover when calculating the penalties it imposes on companies for abusing their market dominance.

Since 2022, Tinder-owner Match and Indian startups have been locked in an antitrust battle with Apple at the CCI, where investigators last year issued a report saying the U.S. smartphone company had engaged in "abusive conduct" on the apps market of its iPhone Operating System, iOS.

Apple denied all wrongdoing, and the CCI is yet to make a final decision in the case, including about any penalty.

The company is asking judges to declare as illegal the 2024 law that allowed the CCI to use global turnover, not just that in India, when calculating penalties, according to its 545-page court filing, which is not public.

Apple's "maximum penalty exposure" at the rate of 10% of its average global turnover derived from all of its services globally for three fiscal years to 2024 could be around $38 billion, it said in the filing.

Such a "penalty based on global turnover...would be manifestly arbitrary, unconstitutional, grossly disproportionate, unjust," it added.

Apple and the CCI did not respond to requests for comment.

Companies also risk fines of as much as 10% of their global turnover for antitrust violations in the European Union.

RETROSPECTIVE IMPOSITION

Apple cited the CCI's use of the new rules for the first time on November 10 in an unrelated case, where they were retrospectively applied to a violation by the affected company a decade earlier.

Apple has "no choice but to bring this constitutional challenge now to avoid retrospective imposition of penalty against them," it argued.

The company has maintained it is a small player compared to Google's Android, which is the dominant player in the Indian market.

Apple's smartphone base has, however, become four times larger in the last five years in India, according to Counterpoint Research.

APPLE CITES STATIONERY, TOYS EXAMPLE

The CCI found last year that Apple was not permitting any third-party payment processor to provide services for in-app purchases, where the fee could be up to 30%.

In a private submission to the CCI, reported by Reuters in October, Apple opponent Match argued a fine based on global turnover could "act as a significant deterrent against recidivism".
Q : What is the company's prediction about the sugar market in 2026 and 2027? A : Julia Bereshchenko, Director for Sustainable Business Development and Investor Relations, explained that globally, there is forecasted production growth in sugar in Europe and Brazil. However, Europe is expected to reduce its acreage by 3-4% in the 2026-2027 season, leading to a reduction in sugar output by 1 million tonnes. Imports into Europe are at 2 million tonnes, with Ukrainian inputs at only 100,000 tonnes. The Ukrainian sugar industry typically responds to price downturns by reducing acreage, similar to European peers, with an expected 20% reduction in sugar beet acreage next year.

Global and domestic sugar prices are declining, leading to a reduction in sugar beet acreage by approximately 20% for next year.

For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript .

Story Continues

Q: How is the company managing the impact of lower harvests on its agriculture segment? A: Julia Bereshchenko noted that the agriculture segment is affected by last year's lower harvest, particularly in corn. The company is shifting more acreage to strategic crops like soybeans and sugar beets, which are processed in-house. This strategic shift aims to mitigate the impact of lower corn sales.

Q: What are the company's plans for soybean processing and expansion? A: The company is actively developing its soybean processing segment, with investments more than doubling from last year. They are on track to launch a new soybean protein plant next year and are working on a multi-seed crushing project. This expansion aligns with the Ukrainian government's push to motivate domestic oilseed processing.

Q: How is the cattle farming segment performing, and what are the future expectations? A: Cattle farming has seen an increase in production volume and herd size year-on-year. Despite lower profitability due to changes in the trading regime between Ukraine and Europe, Astarta continues to gain market share from backyard households and expects to maintain good prices for its products.

Q: What is the current status of the company's sugar production and export activities? A: Astarta is three-quarters through the sugar production season, with all five plants operating and producing 234,000 tonnes of sugar, in line with last year. Exports account for 44% of revenues, but volumes are lower due to uncertainties with the EU trading regime. The company is adapting to new free trading quotas and expects further acreage reductions in response to declining global sugar prices.

For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.
ASHLAND  William P. Miller II has been approved to serve as the executive in residence at Ashland University's Dauch College of Business and Economics (COBE).

Miller, a chartered financial analyst, will serve in the role for the 2025-26 academic year, according to a community announcement from the university.

From left: Ashland University faculty member and former COBE Dean Dan Fox, AU President Jon Parrish Peede, new Executive in Residence Bill Miller, Interim COBE Dean Lance Kaltenbaugh, and AU Provost Greg McBrayer.

As executive in residence, Miller will share his experience and knowledge with students, providing insight on strategic planning, course content and internship and graduate employment programs. He has been a member of the college's advisory council for three years and played a role in the university earning business accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.

Leadership experience spans multiple industries

Miller has held several chief executive positions throughout his career, including his current role as senior managing director of Financial Markets International in Washington, D.C. He previously served as chief financial officer for the Saudi Arabian Investment Company, deputy chief investment officer of the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System, senior risk manager for the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority and senior vice president for the Commonfund Group. He also spent more than 20 years in various positions with General Motors Corp.

Miller has served on several boards, including the corporate governance at American Axle and Manufacturing since 2005, where he has been chairman of the audit committee since 2007. Richard E. Dauch, for whom the college is named, was the co-founder of American Axle and Manufacturing, one of the world's leading automotive suppliers.

Leaders praise Miller's appointment

Lance Kaltenbaugh, interim dean of the college, said Miller's commitment to the university and his leadership experience make this an extraordinary opportunity for the college's continued growth.

I am excited to welcome Mr. Bill Miller as our executive in residence for the Dauch College of Business and Economics, Kaltenbaugh said in the announcement. Mr. Millers commitment to Ashland University and his distinguished leadership experience make this an extraordinary opportunity for our colleges continued impact and growth.

Ashland University President Jon Parrish Peede also praised the announcement.

Our students are fortunate to learn from a great faculty, as well as a seasoned business executive with global leadership experience," Peede said.

About the Dauch College of Business and Economics

The Dauch College of Business and Economics offers a variety of undergraduate programs, ranging from traditional disciplines such as accounting, finance, management and marketing to more specialized areas such as entrepreneurship, fashion merchandising and brand management, industrial systems and engineering, and sport management. The college also offers master's level programs with a number of formats and specializations.
Company Logo

Austria's cement market is poised for growth, driven by strong performance in residential, non-residential, and infrastructure sectors. Opportunities lie in segment-level expansion, distribution channels, and varied cement types like Portland, blended, and specialty cements.

Dublin, Nov. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Austria Cement Industry Size & Forecast by Value and Volume Across 80+ Market Segments by Cement Products, Distribution Channel, Market Share, Import - Export, End Markets - Databook Q4 2025 Update" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The cement market in Austria is expected to grow by 5.5% annually to reach US$414.7 million in 2025.



The cement market in the country recorded strong growth during 2020-2024, achieving a CAGR of 7.1%. Growth momentum is expected to remain positive, with the market projected to expand at a CAGR of 5.1% during 2025-2029. By the end of 2029, the cement market is projected to expand from its 2024 value of US$393.2 million to approximately US$506.8 million.



This report provides a detailed data-centric analysis of the the cement industry in Austria, covering market opportunities and analysis across a range of the cement domains. With over 80+ KPIs at the country level, this report provides a comprehensive understanding of the cement market dynamics, market size and forecast, and market share statistics. Its unbiased analysis leverages a proprietary analytics platform to offer a detailed view of emerging business and investment market opportunities.

Reasons to Buy
Bank of Singapore is intensifying investment in hiring and technology as it seeks to enter the top five Asia private banking growth rankings within five years, following a nearly 20% increase in assets under management (AUM) to over $145bn in the third quarter, according to chief executive Jason Moo.

The banks strategy is anchored in Asias expanding wealth landscape, which is driving demand for private banking services, reported Reuters.

We hope to be within the top five in the next three to five years, Bank of Singapore chief executive Jason Moo told Reuters in an interview.

Finews, which keeps a track of standalone private banks, currently places Bank of Singapore, the private banking arm of Oversea-Chinese Banking Corp (OCBC), at seventh in the region.

When Moo took over as head of Bank of Singapore in early 2023, the banks assets under management (AUM) were approximately $120bn.

The banks number of relationship managers has increased to 500 now, up from approximately 400 in 2023.

Moo noted that hiring will accelerate again in 2026. We hired aggressively in 2024, we hired moderately in 2025. We'll probably switch back to the aggressive mode in 2026. So we'll continue that trend, continue that runway for the next few years, he said.

Bank of Singapore is also set to launch additional bespoke products tailored for clients with assets of $100m or more, according to Moo.

Ultra-high-net-worth assets increased by nearly 20% in the first three quarters of this year, while assets from financial intermediaries rose by more than 30%.

Moo added that the bank is investing in proprietary asset allocation technology designed to incorporate local currencies and insurance holdings into portfolio planning, with the goal of delivering a more personalised wealth management experience for clients.

According to Moo, Hong Kongthe banks largest office outside of Singaporehas already surpassed its goal of increasing assets under management (AUM) by 50% between 2024 and 2026, achieving this milestone more than a year ahead of schedule.

Dubai also remains a key market for the bank, currently ranking third among private banks in the city behind Julius Baer and UBS.

The bank is on track for Dubai to contribute 20% of its total AUM by 2027, Moo added.

In October, Bloomberg reported that JPMorgan Asset Management was planning to expand its AUM in the Asia-Pacific region to $600bn over the next five years.

Australia, China, and Japan are expected to be the primary contributors to this growth target.

"Bank of Singapore to intensify investment in hiring and technology- report" was originally created and published by Private Banker International, a GlobalData owned brand.
The Charles Schwab Corporation (NYSE:SCHW) is one of the best large cap stocks to invest in for the long term. Barclays analyst Benjamin Budish reiterated a Buy rating on The Charles Schwab Corporation (NYSE:SCHW) on November 17, setting a $115 price target. The company reported its monthly activity highlights for October on November 17, reporting that the core net new assets brought to the company rose 80% compared to October 2024, reaching $44.4 billion and setting a record for the month of October.

Charles Schwabs (SCHW) Financial Strength Makes It a Dividend Buy in August

Similarly, total client assets also rose 20% compared to the same month last year, equaling $11.83 trillion. New brokerage accounts opened during the month painted the same optimistic picture, rising 30% compared to October 2024 to 429,000.

Furthermore, management reported that investor engagement experienced an acceleration in October, with the average margin loan balances rising 7% compared to September 2025 and daily average trades reaching 8.6 million.

The Charles Schwab Corporation (NYSE:SCHW) is a savings and loan holding company that engages in securities brokerage, wealth management, custody, asset management, and financial advisory services. Its operations are divided into Advisor Services and Investor Services segments.

While we acknowledge the potential of SCHW 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.

READ NEXT: 30 Stocks That Should Double in 3 Years and 11 Hidden AI Stocks to Buy Right Now.

Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE:QBTS) is one of the Best Quantum Computing Stocks to Invest In Right Now. On November 10, Benchmark analyst David Williams lifted the price target on the companys stock to $35 from $20, while keeping a Buy rating. As per the firm, D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE:QBTS)s Q3 2025 saw healthy progress with continued momentum for broader commercialization and sustainable profitability. Notably, the company saw bookings to the tune of $2.4 million, reflecting a rise of ~$100,000 or 3% YoY, and a rise of 80% compared to Q2 2025.

Benchmark Lifts PT on D-Wave Quantum (QBTS) Stock

Also, after the close of the quarter, the company signed a EUR 10 million agreement to place a D-Wave Advantage2 system in Europe. In Q3 2025, D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE:QBTS)s revenue rose by $1.9 million, or 100% YoY, to $3.7 million, with the rise mainly aided by revenue from a system upgrade project of $1.8 million and higher professional service revenue of $0.2 million. This was partially mitigated by a reduction in QCaaS revenue of $0.2 million.

D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE:QBTS)s adjusted EBITDA loss for Q3 2025 amounted to $20.6 million, reflecting a rise of $6.8 million, or 49% YoY. This increase was mainly because of increased operating expenses, partly mitigated by higher gross profit.

While we acknowledge the potential of QBTS 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.

READ NEXT: 13 Cheap AI Stocks to Buy According to Analysts and 11 Unstoppable Growth Stocks to Invest in Now

Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
BigBear.ai is taking steps to grow its business. In Q3, it announced the impending acquisition of Ask Sage, which provides agentic AI to 160,000 government teams. Ask Sage is forecast to hit annual recurring revenue of $25 million in 2025, a sixfold increase over 2024, and should boost BigBear.ai's sales in 2026.

The majority of BigBear.ai's revenue comes from the U.S. government. Cuts to those contracts caused its sales to drop to $100.4 million through the first three quarters of 2025, compared to $114.4 million in the prior-year period. That revenue decline coincided with an increase in operating expenses , resulting in the company booking a total operating loss of $133.4 million through the first three quarters of 2025, compared to a loss of $125.3 million in the prior-year period.

However, its sales growth lately has been dismal for an AI tech business. In 2024, revenue rose 2% to $158.2 million. The company brought in a new CEO at the start of 2025 -- Kevin McAleenan, who served as acting secretary of the Department of Homeland Security during President Donald Trump's first term. But despite that, BigBear.ai's business was hit this year by spending cuts implemented by the Trump administration.

BigBear.ai's tech has been adopted by numerous airports, including Chicago O'Hare. Other customers included the U.S. Army and Navy.

As artificial intelligence adoption ramps up, which of these AI-powered businesses is better positioned to be a rewarding investment?

BigBear.ai's tech focuses on bringing AI to bear on national security applications, including using it to sift through facial recognition data from airports and identify potential threats among travelers. SoundHound applies AI to interpret human speech for commercial purposes, such as taking food orders at restaurant drive-thrus or over the phone.

Organizations around the world are rushing to adopt artificial intelligence (AI) technologies and apply them to a range of uses. This led to the emergence of companies focused on specific niches in the space. Some, such as BigBear.ai (NYSE: BBAI), are geared toward meeting the needs of government clients. Others, for example, SoundHound AI (NASDAQ: SOUN), target the demands of consumer-facing companies.

SoundHound provides AI-enabled voice solutions to consumer-facing businesses, and its revenue is up thanks to acquisitions.

BigBear.ai generates the bulk of its revenue from the U.S. government, and federal spending cuts have impacted sales.

Story Continues

SoundHound AI's pros and cons

SoundHound's tech has been adopted by businesses across the automotive, restaurant, and financial services industries, among others. Major customers include Red Lobster and Chipotle Mexican Grill.

Like BigBear.ai, SoundHound turned to acquisitions to grow its business. Those buys contributed to its revenue of $113.9 million through the first three quarters of 2025, which more than doubled the $50.2 million it brought in during the first three quarters of 2024. In light of its strong sales growth, management has raised its full-year revenue forecast to a range of $165 million to $180 million.

However, those acquisitions also increased operating costs, leading to a Q3 operating loss of $115.9 million compared to a loss of $33.8 million in the prior-year period. SoundHound is working to cut expenses across its acquired businesses, and expects to see results from those efforts in 2026.

In addition, the company predicts it can achieve adjusted EBITDA profitability in the near future, perhaps as soon as the end of 2025. Its success on that score will depend on whether the company hits the high end of its full-year sales forecast. SoundHound had an adjusted EBITDA loss of $14.5 million in Q3.

Choosing to invest in BigBear.ai or SoundHound AI

Given that neither of these AI businesses is profitable yet, one reasonable way to gauge them as potential investments is to weigh their revenue growth. One of the alluring features of tech companies for investors is that they can deliver fast-rising sales. When a company can show such an arc on the top line, it demonstrates there's a market for its product. Moreover, it's common for younger tech businesses to pour money into expansion, foregoing profits in the short term to capture as large a share of their target market as possible.

SoundHound fits this profile, as its revenue has risen significantly over the past several years. BigBear.ai has not been as successful.

In addition, SoundHound's business possesses more diversified income streams. No single industry contributes more than 25% of its sales. Meanwhile, BigBear.ai's reliance on the federal government means its success hinges on a single, large customer.

Moreover, BigBear.ai's tepid sales growth even before Trump began cutting spending suggests that its potential customers aren't finding its offerings as compelling as those of its rivals. Perhaps the acquisition of Ask Sage will make a difference, but the prudent approach would be to hold off buying shares of BigBear.ai until the company's performance improves.

As a result, between these two, SoundHound is the superior AI stock to invest in at this time. That said, its valuation is on the expensive side. Its price-to-sales (P/S) ratio of 30 is far higher than BigBear.ai's 12. With that in mind, even though it's a better bet than BigBear.ai, I'd suggest the wisest approach would be to wait for SoundHound stock to drop to a less lofty valuation before buying it.

Should you buy stock in BigBear.ai right now?

Before you buy stock in BigBear.ai, consider this:

The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now and BigBear.ai wasnt one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.

Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $563,022!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $1,090,012!*

Now, its worth noting Stock Advisors total average return is 991%  a market-crushing outperformance compared to 192% for the S&P 500. Don't miss the latest top 10 list, available with Stock Advisor, and join an investing community built by individual investors for individual investors.

See the 10 stocks 

*Stock Advisor returns as of November 24, 2025

Robert Izquierdo has positions in Chipotle Mexican Grill and SoundHound AI. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Chipotle Mexican Grill. The Motley Fool recommends the following options: short December 2025 $45 calls on Chipotle Mexican Grill. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

Better Artificial Intelligence Stock: BigBear.ai vs. SoundHound AI was originally published by The Motley Fool
Financial regulators pushed Bithumb to suspend its Tether Market services, which allowed customers to buy and sell Bitcoin and nine high-cap altcoins using USDT, say South Korean publications.

The crypto exchange said the service was still in Beta mode and involved an order book sharing agreement with the Australian crypto exchange Stellar.

Bithumb says it will close the service at 11am KST on November 28 due to system maintenance and that it will be reorganised to provide a more stable and advanced trading environment.

We will provide a separate update regarding the services reopening schedule, Bitthumb wrote.

The move could put an end to the practice of order book sharing with international partners, with regulators apparently unconvinced that exchanges are meeting their anti-money laundering-related obligations.

Bithumb has given up on order book sharing, say sources

All pending orders placed after the November 28 deadline will be automatically cancelled, the exchange added.

The South Korean publication Dailyan, quoting unnamed sources, said the crypto industry thinks Bithumb has effectively given up on its service after two months of intense investigation and pressure from financial regulators.

Neither Bithumb nor Stellar immediately responded to DL News requests for comment.

A crypto exchanges order book is a real-time list of all active buy and sell orders for a trading pair. Order book sharing allows for the real-time integration of buy and sell order histories across different exchanges.

These allow Bithumb customers to execute orders from not only other Bithumb users, but also from overseas partner exchanges: in this case, Stellar.

Regulatory scrutiny intensifies

Shortly after Bithumb launched its Tether Market service, the regulatory Financial Intelligence Unit, also known as the FIU, summoned the exchanges CEO Lee Jae-won for questioning.

The FIU expressed concerns over the services potential to expose domestic customers to personal data leaks and money laundering-related risks.

Order book sharing means that domestic and international transactions are processed together, which increases the risk of money laundering, an unnamed crypto industry insider told Korea Times in September. That makes it an issue that regulators cannot ignore.

Earlier this week, the FIU conducted an on-site inspection at Bithumb, as well as the exchanges Dunamu, Coinone, Korbit, and GOPAX.

The regulator said it wanted to gauge the exchanges compliance with money-laundering regulations.

The South Korean media outlet Newsis reported that Bithumb also underwent an additional on-site inspection at the hands of the FIU. This probe was related to its order book, the outlet explained.

Tim Alper is a news correspondent at DL News. Got a tip? Email at tdalper@dlnews.com.
Key Points

The prices of some top dividend stocks have fallen of late, giving you a great opportunity to buy.

Dividend growth stocks, in particular, can make a huge difference to your total returns from investment.

These three stocks share a common link: a commitment to growing dividends.

10 stocks we like better than Energy Transfer 

Who says Black Friday shopping is restricted to splashy store deals? Shopping for stocks is an equally exciting idea, especially companies that pay you to own a piece of them through dividends.

Dividend investing is the cornerstone for investors who want to make their money work for them. Just find top stocks that pay regular dividends and grow them steadily, buy some shares, reinvest the dividends all along, and sit back and watch your money grow.

The right dividend stocks can be a killer combination of income and growth. If you don't believe me, check out these three stocks that have delivered solid returns so far -- one of them has delivered almost 400% returns in 10 years -- and could supercharge your portfolios over the next five years if you buy them this Black Friday.

Image source: Getty Images.

1. Big business and dividend plans

There's something special about companies that have a clear vision of where they want to be in five years. And, there's nothing like it if returning capital to shareholders is a key part of the company's growth strategy. Eventually, that should mean a lot of money ending up in shareholders' pockets.

Brookfield Asset Management (NYSE: BAM) aims to double its business in five years. In other words, it aims to double the fees that it earns for managing assets for its clients.

Brookfield Asset Management attracts large institutional capital from government and corporate clients, invests and manages them through private funds and publicly traded platforms like Brookfield Renewable and Brookfield Infrastructure on the client's behalf, and earns fees in return. Today, Brookfield Asset Management is one of the world's largest alternative asset managers with more than $1 trillion in assets under management across infrastructure, renewable energy, real estate, private equity, and credit.

Digitalization, such as data centers and artificial intelligence (AI) factories, and decarbonization, such as energy transition, are two of the biggest tailwinds for Brookfield Management. Just days ago, it launched a new $100 billion AI program, backed by tech giant Nvidia and the Kuwait Investment Authority.

Brookfield Asset Management delivered record earnings in its latest quarter. Growth opportunities are so huge that it expects to grow its distributable earnings by a compound annual growth rate of 18% over the next five years. With management aiming to pay out 90% of all those earnings as dividends, you could miss out on gigantic dividends and stock price return potential if you don't buy shares of Brookfield Asset Management now, while they're trading 21% below 52-week highs and yielding 3.5%.
The Chancellors measures on investment, skills and business rates provide short-term support, yet fall short of the systemic overhaul entrepreneurs need to thrive in a digital economy.

The Chancellor placed entrepreneurs and start-ups at the centre of the UKs economic narrative in the Autumn Budget, an acknowledgment that is timely and deserved. Entrepreneurs are not just contributors to growth; they are the drivers of innovation, job creation and regional development. Their success shapes the resilience of the economy.

For many SMEs, the appetite to invest in expansion, technology and people hasnt gone away. What has diminished is their access to capital and the conditions that enable confident decision-making. Rising operating costs and economic uncertainty continue to stifle otherwise ambitious growth plans.

Against this backdrop, the Chancellors announcement of a new 40% first-year allowance for SME investment stands out as a positive step. Enabling businesses to offset some of their upfront investment costs could unlock delayed projects and give entrepreneurs a clearer runway for growth. The impact of this measure will depend on the scope of assets that qualify. If extended beyond hard assets to include investment in software and digital infrastructure, it could be transformative.

A boost for skills

Over the past year, a troubling trend has emerged across the SME landscape: investment in recruitment, training and skills development has become one of the first areas to be cut as businesses tighten their belts, particularly in light of changes to employment legislation and the increase to employers National Insurance contributions.

The Chancellors renewed investment in apprenticeship schemes for under 25s is encouraging. Additional funding for early-career training sends an important signal that the Government recognises the role of skills in long-term business competitiveness.

As AI and emerging technologies reshape all sectors, adaptability is no longer optional; it is essential. SMEs need workforces capable of learning and innovating in real time, and young talent need pathways into industries that are rapidly evolving. The Chancellors measures will help restore momentum in this area, offering businesses the chance to rebuild their talent pipelines.

Business rates relief

If there is one pressure point that consistently surfaces in our conversations with SMEs, it is increased overheads. As a specialist SME lender, we see daily how these rising burdens erode margins, limit investment and in some cases threaten the viability of otherwise healthy businesses.
Despite the recent correction, CDNS's valuation is still notably high, with a P/E ratio of 48, almost double the sector average of 24, indicating it is considerably overpriced compared to its peers.

Valued at $80 million by market cap, Cadences stock has had a bumpy year. Early 2025 worries about China export curbs weighed on shares, but once those eased, the business rebounded. Cadence itself noted, China design activity remains very strong as restrictions were lifted. The share price climbed into the summer, peaking near its alltime high around $375 in midSeptember, driven by the NvidiaAI boom and Chinas recovery. After the Q3 report, it dipped a bit, as if some of the rally was already priced in. Still, the stock is materially higher on the year. In short, Cadence is trading nearly flat year-to-date (YTD), reflecting strong growth offset by lofty expectations.

Cadence Design Systems is a market leader in electronic design automation and AI and digital twins, accelerating the engineering of nextgeneration products from silicon to full systems. Cadences tools are used by the worlds top semiconductor and tech companies to build chips for cloud computing, 5G, AI, automotive, aerospace, and more.

One company quietly sitting at the heart of that shift is Cadence (CDNS). It supplies the software and simulation engines chipmakers use to design, verify, and optimize the very processors that run agentic AI. By deepening partnerships with Nvidia, new AI-centric design platforms, and a growing project pipeline, Cadence positions itself to benefit if demand for complex AI chips keeps climbing.

Nvidia (NVDA) has become nearly synonymous with the AI boom, powering everything from massive data center training clusters to the next generation of intelligent applications. Its latest earnings made one thing clear: the age of AI is in full steam, as CEO Jensen Huang said. He also highlighted that enterprises are now adopting agentic AI to transform workflows. Nvidias GPUs are enabling this shift toward more autonomous, decision-making systems, which many now call agentic AI, and that momentum is reshaping the entire chip ecosystem.

Story Continues

www.barchart.com

Nvidias AI Boom and Cadences Opportunity

Nvidia is doing a massive shift in computing. Huang described foundation model makers scaling up, demand for Nvidias new Hopper GPUs, and coming Blackwell chips as incredible. Crucially, Nvidia explicitly tied this to agentic AI, where systems autonomously plan and execute tasks. Agentic AI, as Nvidia defines it, uses sophisticated reasoning and iterative planning to solve multi-step problems. This means workloads like robotics, data center orchestration, and autonomous software are ramping up.

That trend is good news for Cadence. Every new GPU or AI chip design requires extensive verification and simulation, which is Cadences core business. In effect, Nvidia is calling out real-world AI applications (like digital AI factories and robots), and Cadences design tools are used to build those chips and systems. For example, at a recent event, Cadence unveiled a new Millennium supercomputer using Nvidia Blackwell GPUs to accelerate semiconductor design and simulation. It also announced a fullstack agentic AI solution integrating Cadences JedAI platform with Nvidias NeMo AI framework, targeting things like conversational design assistants and AIdriven circuit synthesis.

In practical terms, Cadences Q3 strength reflects this wave. All of its segments contributed to growth, and management raised guidance accordingly. The company is investing aggressively; it agreed to acquire Hexagons Design & Engineering unit to bolster its digitaltwin and simulation offerings, and it recently closed the purchase of Arms Artisan IP portfolio to capture more of the AI design ecosystem.

Looking forward, if Nvidia and others maintain brisk demand for new AI chips, Cadence should see continued robust sales as chipmakers leverage its software.

Cadence Beats Q3 Earnings

Cadence delivered another solid quarter. Revenue hit about $1.339 billion, up nearly 10% from a year ago. Net income rose to roughly $287 million, and EPS came in at $1.51, a strong jump from last years $1.64. All three business segments grew, and the companys backlog climbed to a record $7 billion. Free cash flow also remained strong, with Cadence generating around $1.5 billion last year.

Management raised its guidance again. For Q4, the company expects EPS of roughly $1.20. For the full year, it now sees revenue in the $5.26 billion to $5.29 billion range, up about 14% from last year, along with EPS between $3.80 and $3.86. Analysts are on the same page, generally expecting around $5.25 billion in revenue and about $6.90 in EPS for 2025.

CEO Anirudh Devgan called the quarter excellent, pointing to broad strength across the business and the tailwind from Cadences growing AI partnerships. Overall, the company beat expectations and nudged its outlook higher.

What Analysts Say About CDNS Stock

The Wall Street consensus is bullish. Barchart data shows a Moderate Buy consensus with a split of 16 Strong Buy, one Moderate Buy, four Hold, and one Strong Sell.

The average 12month price target is set at about $384, which means CDNS stock could climb up to 26% from the current price.

Separately, we have seen multiple firms raise their price targets in recent times. For instance, Goldman Sachs reaffirmed its Buy rating with a new $410 price target, up from $400, while Baird lifted its target to $418. Loop Capital is at $400, Wells Fargo is calling for $410, and J.P. Morgan sits at $405, all suggesting theres still room for upside.

www.barchart.com

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
The owner of a small pub chain in the south east of England has said his costs will rise by 62,000 per year after changes announced in the Budget.

Phil Thorley, who runs the Thorley Taverns pub group, said business rates - a tax on commercial properties - will rise for 17 of his 18 sites, despite Rachel Reeves promising lower taxes for retail, leisure and hospitality firms.

Reeves had vowed to introduce the lowest taxes since 1991 for pubs, restaurants and small shops by increasing the levy on higher-value properties such as warehouses used by Amazon and other online giants.

The government said changes it had made meant it was saving most "typical independent pubs" 4,800 per year.

A firm's rateable value is based on how much it would cost to rent a firm's property for a year, and is used to calculate a business's rates bill.

The government said it would calculate business rates for 750,000 High Street retail and hospitality firms using a lower percentage of the rateable value of premises, but this lower tax rate was not as generous as expected.

At the same time, many firms have seen their rateable value increase and face the phasing out of a Covid-era 40% discount from April.

The net result is that, despite some transitional relief, lots of them will see significant increases in their business rates bill.

Transitional relief caps the increase in rates for each year. For properties outside London with a rateable value of 20,000 to 100,000, the limit is 15% in 2026-27, 25% in 2027-28, 40% in 2028-29 (plus inflation).

UK Hospitality estimates that an average pub would pay 12,900 more over those three years, while an average hotel would pay 205,200 more.

Mr Thorley told BBC Radio 4's Today programme that the rateable value at most of his sites had "gone north".

"A further 62,000 worth of costs onto the business, which is absolutely at its knees at the moment."

He said the industry was already under significant pressure following the chancellor's first Budget last October, which pushed up hiring costs with a hike in employer national insurance contributions and the minimum wage.

Mr Thorley said another minimum wage hike will mean "less employment, less investment, less training in the people that we've got, and less jobs for young people".

And he warned the chancellor's Budget would "be the death knell to the British pub".

'More closures could follow'

The government said it is protecting pubs, restaurants and cafes with a 4.3bn package of support, limiting firms' business rates bills.
Its facilities stretch across low-cost energy hubs in Trinidad, Pecos, and Silverton, Texas, giving it a structural edge in power-intensive operations. In mid-2025, BitMine unveiled the worlds largest ETH treasury, marking a major shift in focus and establishing the company as a rising force in Ethereum-centric infrastructure and treasury strategy.

Founded in 2019, Las Vegas-based Bitmine has grown into a hybrid Bitcoin and Ethereum network company with a clear long-term mission to accumulate digital assets through mining, advisory services, and strategic capital raising. Now valued at $11.10 billion by market capitalization, the firm operates across multiple verticals  from traditional Bitcoin mining to synthetic hashrate products, corporate mining services, and broad Bitcoin consulting.

Her confidence is why traders watch every ARK transaction  buys, sells, all of it  because her timing has often shaped trends before the crowd catches on. Should you follow her lead and snag Bitmine Immersion Technologies (BMNR) now?

The ARK Innovation ETF (ARKK) led the activity, acquiring 181,774 shares of Bitmine Immersion Technologies (BMNR), while 260,651 shares were added to the ARK Next Generation Internet ETF (ARKW) and ARK Fintech Innovation ETF (ARKF). Despite falling Ethereum (ETHUSD) and sliding miner valuations, Wood has scooped up shares of the crypto mining and treasury firm on various occasions in November, leaning into the weakness rather than running from it.

But just as the screens turned red, Cathie Wood moved in the opposite direction. While most investors pulled back, Ark Invest quietly loaded up, buying the dip across crypto-linked names.

Cryptocurrencys latest slide hit the market like a sudden cold wind, sparked by a gap in economic data after the historic government shutdown. With the Fed now seen as less likely to cut rates in December, risk assets recoiled. Bitcoin (BTCUSD) cratered by more than 30% from its October peak, Ethereum (ETHUSD) followed, and another wave of liquidations swept across the sector. Rumors of a forced seller only deepened the pressure, leaving crypto-treasury firms scrambling as their balance sheets shrank overnight.

Story continues

Bitmines NYSE listing on June 5 began at $8 per share, until the company made its pivotal move on June 30. By declaring ETH its core treasury asset, securing a $250 million private placement, and bringing in respected strategist Tom Lee as chairman, Bitmine ignited one of the markets most dramatic surges. BMNR stock skyrocketed 695% in a single session, hitting $161 by July 3 and vaulting the company into mainstream visibility almost overnight.

But that initial euphoria has since cooled. BMNR has slid about 83.9% from its peak, mirroring the turbulence across digital assets. Over the past month alone, the stock has fallen 42.65%, with another 10.44% drop in just the last five days. The companys shift toward a crypto-treasury model  heavily weighted toward ETH  has tethered its stock closely to the broader crypto sell-off. And as the market grapples with liquidity shocks and sliding Ethereum prices, BitMine Immersion shares have been swept into the same storm.

www.barchart.com

BMNR, with a towering valuation, priced at 103 times sales, trades far above sector norms, looking pricey even after its pullback. Still, Bitmines massive ETH reserves, non-dilutive cash flows from ancillary operations, and backing from heavyweights like Cathie Wood could be factors shaping its place in a fast-moving crypto landscape.

The company recently declared an annual dividend of $0.01 per share, payable on Dec. 29, making it the first large-cap crypto company to take that step, a clear signal of its commitment to shareholder value. Earlier in July, the firm also approved a share buyback program, positioning it among the few digital-asset treasuries pairing buybacks with ongoing ETH accumulation.

Cathie Woods Steady Accumulation of BMNR

Cathie Wood keeps pouncing on every pullback in BMNR, pouring millions into Ethereum-rich BitMine Immersion Technologies as a bet on the next leg of crypto infrastructure. Her conviction shows across Ark Invests major funds. As of Nov. 21, ARKK now holds 5.5 million shares, worth $143.2 million; ARKW carries 1.59 million, valued at $41.3 million; and ARKF owns 791,771 shares worth $20.6 million. Together, the stakes signal Woods steady accumulation strategy  turning each dip into an opportunity to deepen her position in Bitmines long-term story.

A Closer Look at Bitmines Fiscal 2025 Financials

Bitmine Immersion released its fiscal 2025 earnings report on Nov. 21, and that was the kind of headline numbers that usually light up a trading screen. Its revenue rose 84% year-over-year (YOY) to $6.1 million, driven mostly by self-mining and leasing. Plus, the company generated a striking $328.16 million in net income and EPS of $13.39, compared to last years losses.

Bitmines balance sheet has swelled to $11.8 billion in crypto and cash assets, underscoring the companys growing weight in the digital-asset ecosystem. It now controls roughly 2.9% of all Ethereum in circulation, a scale rarely seen among publicly traded firms. As of Nov. 16, its treasury includes 3,559,879 ETH valued at $3,120 per token, alongside 192 Bitcoin, a $37 million position in Eightco Holdings (ORBS), and $607 million in unrestricted cash. These figures, detailed in a recent press release, highlight the depth of BitMines reserves and its influence within the broader crypto market.

But the market did not quite throw a celebration after the report. Instead, BMNR stock slipped as investors parsed the fine print  specifically, the companys slow move into staking. Unlike Bitcoin, Ethereum can be staked natively, allowing holders to earn a steady yield simply by validating transactions. For a firm sitting on billions in ETH, staking could be a lucrative, low-friction way to grow its treasury. Yet Bitmine has not deployed those assets meaningfully, and with ETHs recent price drop, that hesitation has stirred fresh debate about strategy and timing.

Bitmines answer came with a forward-looking pitch. The company is building out its Made-in-America Validator Network (MAVAN), a homegrown ETH staking infrastructure slated for launch in early 2026. To set the foundation, Bitmine has already lined up three pilot partners to test staking capabilities using a small slice of its ETH reserves. It is a move designed to shift the story, showing that BitMine isnt avoiding staking but preparing to scale it in a controlled, institutional-grade way.

Backed by major investors and positioned at the intersection of ETH infrastructure and U.S.-based digital-asset innovation, Bitmine is trying to reassure the market that short-term volatility does not define its long-term playbook. And if crypto prices rebound once liquidity pressures ease  as many expect  the companys massive treasury could quickly flip from a worry to a weapon.

What Do Analysts Expect for Bitmine Stock?

BitMine may not be a Wall Street favorite just yet, but the momentum around the stock is taking shape. Investor interest has steadily grown, and while the stock previously held a Strong Buy rating from the single analyst on Barchart, expanded coverage has shifted the consensus to a Moderate Buy.

Although a downgrade overall from a couple of months back, among the three analysts now following BMNR, two maintain Strong Buy ratings while one recommends a Hold, reflecting cautious optimism rather than unqualified enthusiasm.

The average price target of $53.50 signals an upside potential of 85% from current levels. Plus, with a Street high target of $60, the forecast hints at a potential 107.54% upside from current levels, signaling that quiet confidence is gradually turning into firmer expectations for Bitmines longer-term trajectory.

Final Thoughts on Bitmine

ETHs extended slide has been a defining force across the crypto landscape, and Bitmines CEO, Mr. Lee, offered a pointed explanation for the turbulence. He highlighted the massive liquidity shock on Oct. 10  the largest single-day liquidation event in crypto history  noting that similar disruptions, including the post-FTX freeze in 2022, took several weeks to unwind but ultimately snapped back in classic V-shaped recoveries. In his view, the recent drawdown was not a verdict on Ethereum or Bitcoin fundamentals, but a temporary dislocation driven by thinning market liquidity and mechanical positioning. That distinction matters when gauging whether the stress is cyclical or structural.

Bitmine itself sits squarely at the center of this liquidity story. BMNR stock, like much of the crypto-equity sector, has stalled under the weight of ETF outflows, market-maker selling, and cautious sentiment. Yet Lees framing suggests the pressure reflects the market's underlying plumbing. For investors trying to decipher the signal from the noise, this perspective may offer reassurance  if the timeline he outlines holds, liquidity pressures could begin easing in the weeks ahead, setting the stage for a more normalized environment.

At the same time, Bitmine continues signaling stability and discipline in its own right, becoming the first large-cap crypto company to declare an annual dividend  a rare move in a sector known for volatility.

As markets wobble, Cathie Wood keeps buying Bitmine, viewing it not just as a miner but a digital asset treasury with the makings of an on-chain asset manager. Its massive ETH reserves clearly draw ARKs confidence, even as ETH-linked swings make it a high-volatility play.

In essence, it shows a company pushing through a tough liquidity stretch, backed by management confidence and smart-money support, and now it is up to investors to decide if this moment is a setback or the start of a setup.

www.barchart.com

On the date of publication, Sristi Suman Jayaswal 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
South Korean biopharma Celltrion has obtained regulatory approval for its Eylea (aflibercept) biosimilar, Eydenzelt, from Health Canada.

The therapy will now be available in both a pre-filled syringe and a vial version. Eydenzelt is designated for use in all approved Eylea indications.

Eydenzelts approval was granted based on clinical data collected in global Phase III studies, as well as non-clinical and analytical data  which all demonstrated the comparable efficacy and safety of the biosimilar to the original Eylea formulation.

According to Celltrion Healthcare Canada managing director Jungyong Shin, this approval is a positive step forward for the company, which is currently looking to diversify its portfolio, while expanding into the growing ophthalmology market.

Eydenzelt was previously given regulatory approval by the European Commission (EC) in February 2025 while the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) greenlighted the drug in October 2025.

The therapy joins two other approved Eylea biosimilars in Canada: Biocon Biologics Yesafili and Apotexs Aflivu, which got the go-ahead from Health Canada in June and July 2025, respectively.

Regeneron looks to boost Eylea revenues

Since the US expiry of Eyleas regulatory patent in May 2024, the drugs sales have been on a steep downward trajectory  primarily due to biosimilar competition. Analysts at GlobalData forecast that this trend will continue, with Eylea sales set to drop to less than half of the $3.57bn value observed in its 2024 sales peak by 2030.

GlobalData is the parent company of Pharmaceutical Technology.

To fend off the financial losses associated with Eyleas recent patent cliff, Regeneron launched Eylea HD  a higher-dose, longer-acting version of its highly successful predecessor.

While Eylea HD originally gained US approval in diabetic macular oedema (DME), wet age-related macular degeneration (wAMD) and diabetic retinopathy (DR) in 2023.

Despite a review delay this year, the FDA also approved Eylea HD for macular oedema following retinal vein occlusion (RVO) this month, expanding the drugs use cases across the field of ophthalmology.

Manufacturing shortcomings at a Novo Nordisk-owned facility are still dashing approval hopes for a pre-filled syringe version of Eylea HD. The FDA rejected this formulation of the drug in October 2025. Pre-filled syringes would further bolster the franchise with more efficient administration.

Eylea HD's expansion to further indications could help the company keep up with Roche, which became a dominant force in the ophthalmology market after winning approval for Vabysmo (faricimab-svoa) in 2022. Since its debut, the drug has become a best-seller for the Swiss big pharma company, raking in $4.4bn in 2024 alone.
China Crypto Ban. Photo by BeInCrypto

S&P Global Ratings downgraded Tethers USDT stablecoin stability score from constrained to weak, citing increased exposure to volatile assets like Bitcoin. This move triggered intense debate on Chinese social media, with traders expressing concerns ranging from skepticism to outright panic.

The timing is critical for Chinas underground crypto market. Over 20 million participants depend on USDT as their primary route to digital asset trading, even after the countrys 2021 ban.

S&P Flags Reserve Composition Concerns

The official S&P Global report released on Wednesday highlights significant risks in Tethers reserve structure. Bitcoin now makes up 5.6% of circulating USDT, exceeding the previously stated buffer of 3.9%. S&P pointed to insufficient transparency and limited disclosure of reserve assets.

According to Tethers Q1Q3 2025 attestation reports, the company holds $9.9 billion in Bitcoin and $12.9 billion in gold. Combined, these volatile assets account for about 13% of total reserves backing $174.4 billion in liabilities. Tether maintains $181.2 billion in reserves and has generated over $10 billion in profit in the first three quarters of 2025.

S&Ps analysis also highlighted exposure to high-risk assets, such as secured loans, corporate bonds, and precious metals. The agency noted ongoing gaps in disclosure practices, raising doubts about USDTs long-term ability to keep its 1-to-1 peg with the US dollar. However, Tethers transparency reports show US Treasury holdings of more than $113 billion, accounting for most of its reserves.

Chinese Traders React With Mixed Emotions

The downgrade sparked a heated debate within Chinese crypto circles, where USDT dominates trading. One veteran trader noted that negative news about Tether regularly surfaces without effect, often near market lows. This view shows how many remain skeptical of stability warnings that have not come true in the past.

Other participants expressed concern about the potential fallout. The anxiety centers around USDTs key role as vital infrastructure for Chinas thriving but banned stablecoin crypto community. Many exchanges serving Chinese users operate under local management, creating deep ties between traders and USDT-denominated markets.

"If this bomb goes off, the cryptocurrency market is completely finished!" Source: Weibo

Meanwhile, conspiracy theories emerged about coordinated attacks by stablecoin rivals USDC and USD1. Some analysts argued that these competitors have much to gain from undermining USDTs dominance, particularly as global regulatory scrutiny intensifies. Critics took the opportunity to promote USDC as the future of stablecoins, citing stronger transparency and regulatory compliance.
Chinas demand for liquefied natural gas is on course for yet another annual decline this year, estimates from BloombergNEF suggest. The outlet expects Chinese LNG demand to be 5% weaker this year than last, at 73 million tons.

Such a development would dethrone China as the largest LNG importer in the world, with the dubious import-dependence crown going to Japan.

The BloombergNEF forecast follows reports earlier this week that revealed Chinas LNG imports have been on the decline for 13 months straight. The countrys November total in imports is seen at 5.81 million tons, which would be a 5.5% decline from a year ago, Kpler said this week. The decline would be significantly smaller than the ones registered for the previous two months, both of which were at over 10% on the year.

Bloomberg noted in its report on this years LNG imports that China used to be the fastest-growing import market for liquefied gas prior to 2022 and the spot market price surge following Russias invasion of Ukraine. As prices changed, so did Chinas demand.

At the time, BNEF forecast Chinas LNG imports for 2025 at as much as 100 million tons. Since then, the forecasting outlet has had to revise its projections repeatedly to reflect the close link between price movements and purchasing behavior.

There has also been another factor affecting Chinas appetite for liquefied gas, and that is the Power of Siberia pipeline from Russia, which has been pumping ever-growing volumes of gas. Earlier this year, the two countries also signed a deal for the expansion of the pipeline, which would double its capacity to over 100 billion cu m of natural gas per year.

Meanwhile, China has also been working on boosting its domestic natural gas production, and the efforts have been paying off, with output hitting an all-time high earlier this year.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com

Oilprice Intelligence brings you the signals before they become front-page news. This is the same expert analysis read by veteran traders and political advisors. Get it free, twice a week, and you'll always know why the market is moving before everyone else.

You get the geopolitical intelligence, the hidden inventory data, and the market whispers that move billions - and we'll send you $389 in premium energy intelligence, on us, just for subscribing. Join 400,000+ readers today. Get access immediately by clicking here.
Investing.com -- UBS says investors should look past this weeks headlines after Bloomberg reported that the Pentagon has concluded Alibaba, Baidu, and BYD should be added to its Section 1260H list.

The list identifies companies that the U.S. deems to be supporting the Chinese military while operating in the country.

In a note headed by Mark Haefele, the banks global wealth management chief investment officer, UBS notes that Hong Kong-listed shares fell 1.4% to 2.7% following the report, moderately underperforming the Hang Seng Tech index.

But UBS stresses that the report remains unconfirmed, and company responses have pushed back.

Alibaba said there is no basis for its inclusion and that its business is unrelated to US military procurement.

UBS argues that while such headlines can spark volatility or grab media attention, investors should not let it distract from the China tech sectors resilient fundamentals and the ongoing improvement in its policy setting.

Analysts highlight that Chinas AI firms continue to advance in AI innovation and monetization, with AI capex up 57% year over year. Chinas AI spending over 202325 is only around 18% of US spending, which UBS says leaves ample room for growth and catch-up.

Diplomatic momentum is also improving. UBS points out that the alleged Pentagon letter pre-dates the recent Trump-Xi trade truce, and that the U.S. Treasury Secretary has suggested Trump could meet Xi up to four times in 2026.

The White House, UBS says, appears focused on maintaining stability and avoiding escalation.

UBS concludes that China tech remains one of our highest conviction equity ideas globally and that the recent correction offers a compelling entry point for under-allocated investors.

Related articles

Can China tech stocks still stage a rally despite Pentagon scrutiny?

Silver's Bullish Pattern Points Higher  Keep an Eye on $52 Resistance Zone

Nasdaq 100 Setup Turns Cautious as Insiders Sell and Technicals Flash Fatigue
Top Chinese diplomat Wang Yi used a call with the French presidents diplomatic adviser to say the two sides needed to support each other, underscoring Beijings push to win diplomatic backing during a spat with Japan.

Wang said in the exchange Thursday with Emmanuel Bonne that Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi had made provocative remarks related to Taiwan this month.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Beijing and Paris should firmly support each other on issues involving each others core interests, Wang said, according to a statement from the Foreign Ministry in Beijing. I hope that the French side will continue to firmly abide by the One China principle.

French President Emmanuel Macron is due to make a state visit to China next week, and hold discussions on economic and commercial matters.

An official at Macrons Elysee Palace said Thursday that Paris is consistent in supporting the One China policy  the recognition that the mainland and Taiwan make up a single nation governed by Beijing  and calls for the status quo to be respected.

In light of the Japanese prime ministers statements, France is urging everyone to adhere to this position, since it guarantees stability and ensures theres no escalation around Taiwan.

That also requires China to refrain from escalating the situation following Takaichis remarks, said the person, who asked not to be named discussing internal deliberations. France calls for tensions to be eased and for a return to a consensual approach that respects the status quo.

Japans chief cabinet secretary, Minoru Kihara, declined to comment on Wangs outreach to France at a regular press conference on Friday afternoon. We will continue to explain and communicate Japans views through various opportunities, he said.

Beijing kept up pressure on Takaichi, with a commentary in the Chinese Communist Partys flagship newspaper saying Japan has yet to show remorse and still refused to retract its erroneous remarks. The Peoples Daily article on Friday said the prime ministers comments amounted to a serious provocation to Chinas sovereignty.

China has tried to rally diplomatic support during its dispute with Japan by sending a letter to United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres last week accusing Takaichi of violating international law with comments that publicly linked a Taiwan Strait crisis with the possible deployment of Japanese troops.
Great Wall Motor aims to export one million cars globally by 2030 - Maxim Shemetov/Reuters

A Chinese electric vehicle (EV) maker is scouting for locations to build one of Europes biggest car factories.

Great Wall Motor is looking at sites in Spain and Hungary along with other countries as it targets a production output of 300,000 vehicles per year locally.

Assuming most of the carmakers production is concentrated there, the factory would be one of the largest in Europe.

Britains largest plant, run by Nissan in Sunderland, has a maximum capacity of 600,000 but in practice has been producing far fewer vehicles than this recently.

Volkswagens Wolfsburg plant in Germany is the biggest in Europe, with a maximum theoretical capacity of around 900,000 per year.

Amid brutal competition on pricing at home, Chinese carmakers have been piling into the European market where they have been able to undercut more established brands.

For example, BYD has increased its sales from about 36,000 to 138,000 in the first 10 months of the year while SAIC Motor, the owner of MG, has gone from about 198,000 to 250,000. The European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA) does not publish figures for Great Wall Motor.

Parker Shi, the president of Great Wall Motor International, said his company had a target to export one million cars globally by 2030. The target includes 300,000 cars in Europe.

Mr Shi told Reuters, which reported the announcement: Thats why were speeding up the European strategy. Everything needs to speed up.

In the UK, Great Wall Motor is selling the electric ORA 03, a five-door hatchback, for upwards of 21,000, along with the Haval Jolion Pro compact SUV for about 22,000 and the POER300 pickup truck for about 31,500.

By comparison, electric versions of the Mini Cooper and the Vauxhall Corsa  which are similar in terms of performance  start at around 28,000 and 27,000 respectively.

But as Chinese firms sales have grown, so has anxiety in European governments about the threat to local jobs and regional brands such as VW and Renault.

The companies have stolen a march in particular on EVs, which they are able to produce at significantly lower cost than their European counterparts.

There are also concerns about the massive amounts of state aid lavished by Beijing and Chinese local authorities on their own car manufacturers through cheap loans, vehicle mandates, charging infrastructure and grants.

Against that backdrop, the European Union last year imposed tariffs on imported Chinese EVs.

That has spurred the companies to look at local production lines. However, to avoid tariffs, they will have to meet certain rules of origin requirements that demand more than simply shipping parts to Europe and putting them together.
Alibaba Group Holding Limited (NYSE:BABA) is one of the Chinese tech stocks to buy now. On November 17, Citi analysts said they consider the White House memo, which alleges ties between Alibaba Group Holding Limited (NYSE:BABA) and the Chinese military, as a short-term overhang on the companys stock rather than a long-term risk. Accordingly, the analysts reiterated a Buy rating on Alibaba shares and maintained the $218 price target. In the analysts view, any potential selloff stemming from the memo is a buying opportunity.

Citi Keeps Buy Rating on Alibaba (BABA) Despite White House Memo

Gil C / Shutterstock.com

Independently of the analyst action, Alibabas Qwen AI app, a generative AI-driven consumer assistant, logged over 10 million downloads within the first week of its public beta launch. The app launch is Alibabas answer to Googles Gemini and OpenAIs ChatGPT, and the company described it as the best personal AI assistant with the most powerful model. Qwen AI app is currently available on mobile and web, with plans for an international rollout.

Alibaba Group Holding Limited (NYSE:BABA) is a leading Chinese technology conglomerate. It operates across e-commerce, cloud computing, digital media, and AI, with flagship platforms such as Taobao, Tmall, and Alibaba Cloud. The company is also investing in autonomous driving and smart logistics.

While we acknowledge the potential of BABA 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.

READ NEXT: 11 Best Nancy Pelosi Stocks to Buy Right Now and 12 Cheap AI Stocks to Buy Right Now.

Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
Michelle Carnahan has spent the better part of the last three decades working in healthcare at companies like Thirty Madison and Eli Lilly (NYSE:LLY). Now, the entrepreneur has raised $52 million in seed money for her own startup, Arbiter, a platform that connects health care professionals and payers to provide better patient care.

The money has all been raised from family offices, including TriEdge Investments, MFO Ventures, and WindRose Health Investors, according to the company's funding announcement. Their investments give Arbiter a $400 million valuation.

Don't Miss:

Building on years of experience

Following a 26-year tenure at Eli Lilly, Carnahan left big pharma for virtual care company Thirty Madison in 2020. She served as the company's president during the 2021 venture capital boom and was instrumental in helping the business attain its $1 billion valuation.

In September, Thirty Madison was acquired by Remedy Meds in a $500 million all-stock deal.

Despite witnessing firsthand the boom and bust of venture capital money, Carnahan told Business Insider she didn't intentionally set out to build Arbiter without it. That decision came from a desire to partner with specialized investors who could help bring the product to market faster.

This gives us not only a knowledge advantage, but a distribution advantage in partnerships that would take years to develop, she said.

Trending: GM-Backed EnergyX Is Solving the Lithium Supply Crisis  Invest Before They Scale Global Production

Utilizing AI

Arbiter's goal is to unite payers, providers, and patients on an AI-powered platform that eliminates waste and improves patient care. The startup is only six months old, but Caarnahan told BI it is already live with more than 1,000 clinicians.

The support from family offices and the acquisition of data platform SecondWave Delivery Systems helped accelerate that path to market, she says.

SecondWave Delivery Systems was founded by MFO Ventures co-founder Erick Moskow in 2020. The software amalgamates patient data and evaluates that information for potential health risks in order to help doctors make better treatment decisions. It was a perfect match for Arbiter.

Arbiters mission is nothing less than to rebuild the operating spine of U.S. healthcare, Carnahan said in the funding announcement. By aligning payers and providers around the needs of patients, were transforming healthcare from a fragmented set of parts into a connected system that works for everyone.
Corn bulls are trying to hold together on Wednesday morning, with contracts up 1 to 2  cents. Futures closed Tuesday with contracts seeing some spreading and adding carry back into the market as December was up  cent and deferreds up 2  cents. Preliminary open interest dropped 39,716 contracts, mostly in the December (-74,996) with March up 33,466 contracts. Friday is first notice day for December futures. The CmdtyView national average Cash Corn price was up 1/4 cent at $3.88. The market will be closed on Thursday for Thanksgiving, with a hard open at 8:30 CST on Friday.

Export Sales data from Tuesday morning showed a total of 1.327 MMT of corn sold in the week of 10/9, in the middle of traders looking for 0.9-2.5 MMT in the delayed dataset. That was a 4-week low and below the same week last year. Data for the week of 10/16 will be out on Friday.

More News from Barchart

Delayed CFTC data from the week of October 14 showed managed money with a net short position of 191,055 contracts in corn futures and options. That was an addition of 49,089 contracts as of that week. Commercial slashed 37,930 contracts from their net short to just 13,776 contracts, as longs were increasing.

Brazilian corn exports in November are expected to total 6.11 MMT according to ANEC, down 0.25 MMT from the week prior.

Dec 25 Corn closed at $4.23 1/2, down 1/4 cent, currently up 2  cents

Nearby Cash was $3.88, up 1/4 cent,

Mar 26 Corn closed at $4.38 1/4, up 1 1/2 cents, currently up 2  cents

May 26 Corn closed at $4.46 3/4, up 2 1/2 cents, currently up 2 cents

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
Three out of four crypto traders in the United States are not reporting all of their digital asset income to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), according to crypto tax expert Clinton Donnelly.

He warned that the era of limited IRS visibility into crypto activity is ending, and traders who have fallen behind on filings may face increasing enforcement risk.

IRS to receive detailed digital asset reports starting in 2026

In a post on X on Nov. 25, Donnelly explained about a new report by the IRS that would target crypto traders.

The IRS is preparing to implement Form 1099-DA, a new information report that U.S. centralized exchanges must issue starting on Jan. 1, 2026.

The form, mandated under the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, requires exchanges to report:

Every sale

Every swap

Every exchange

Every transfer in or out

Donnelly said the change removes ambiguity around taxable events.

Up until now, the IRS struggled to see the full scope of your trading activity. But thats changing. Fast. he wrote.

He added that the new reporting regime will give the agency direct insight into users transactions.

More News:

Global reporting set to expand under CARF in 2027

Some traders attempt to avoid domestic reporting by using foreign exchanges or platforms with weak know-your-customer controls. However, Donnelly said those strategies will stop working when the Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework (CARF) begins rolling out globally in 2027.

CARF, developed by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), requires participating jurisdictions to collect and share information about crypto users with their home tax authorities.

Under CARF, foreign exchanges must:

Collect full KYC information

Identify users tax residency

Record tax identification numbers

Report all transactions to the users home country

Donnelly gave Malta as an example, citing that exchanges operating there would be required to send U.S. traders data back to the IRS through Maltese authorities.

Unlike traditional financial reporting, CARF includes no minimum thresholds. This means exchanges must report every sale, swap, and transfer, even movements of small amounts between wallets.

How transfer data reveals self-custody wallets

Donnelly emphasized that transfer reporting gives tax agencies visibility into users self-custody wallets.
This article first appeared on GuruFocus.

Release Date: November 27, 2025

For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.

Positive Points

Dev Information Technology Ltd (NSE:DEVIT) reported a consolidated total income of INR 49.18 crore for Q2 FY 2026, showing an increase from INR 48.24 crore in the same period last year.

The company has secured new strategic projects in the e-governance ecosystem, including cloud migration and financial management systems, which are expected to drive future growth.

Dev Information Technology Ltd (NSE:DEVIT) is focusing on building capabilities in AI, cybersecurity, blockchain, and platform development, which are progressing well and are key areas for future growth.

The public issue of the subsidiary, Dave Accelerator Limited, worth INR 143.35 crore, strengthens the balance sheet and enables expansion in the managed office space segment.

The company is expanding its presence in international markets, including North America, Australia, and Europe, supported by partnerships with Microsoft and other technology leaders.

Negative Points

EBITDA for Q2 FY 2026 stood at INR 3.82 crore, a significant decrease from INR 11.22 crore in the same period last year, indicating margin pressures.

The reported net profit for Q2 includes an exceptional gain of INR 93.55 crore, which may not be sustainable in future quarters.

There is a pricing pressure in both domestic and international markets, particularly in cloud services and digital transformation projects.

The company is facing challenges due to geopolitical uncertainties, particularly in the North American market, affecting its export business focus.

Margins have declined due to investments in creating intellectual property and upskilling employees, which may not yield immediate returns.

Q & A Highlights

Q: What are the key drivers that could accelerate revenue growth for Dev Information Technology Ltd in the coming months? A: The CEO mentioned that the focus is on maintaining growth and sustainability, with optimism for growth in the next six months. The company is focusing on the Indian market while also seeing growth in the USA and export markets. By the end of the year, they expect to perform reasonably well in terms of revenue numbers.

Q: What were the main pressures on margins, and when can improvement be expected? A: The CEO explained that the focus on low-margin business and investments in creating intellectual property have impacted margins. The company is upskilling employees and investing in IT-based solutions, which are expected to yield high returns in the coming quarters. The margins have decreased due to these investments, but they are expected to improve as the investments start generating returns.
The Price-to-Earnings (PE) ratio is a widely used valuation tool for profitable companies, like Meituan, because it directly relates the market price to the companys bottom-line profits. For investors, the PE multiple provides a snapshot of what the market is willing to pay today for a dollar of earnings, offering a straightforward way to gauge value, especially when earnings are positive and growing.

Our Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) analysis suggests Meituan is undervalued by 57.1%. Track this in your watchlist or portfolio , or discover 930 more undervalued stocks based on cash flows .

Based on these calculations, the estimated intrinsic value per share for Meituan is HK$242.67. This suggests the stock is trading at a 57.1% discount to its DCF-derived value, indicating potential undervaluation in the current market. Investors looking for value opportunities in Chinese tech may find this particularly compelling.

For Meituan, the current Free Cash Flow (FCF) stands at approximately CN38.99 billion. According to analyst consensus, Meituans FCF is projected to reach about CN56.29 billion by 2028. Beyond this, Simply Wall St extends the projection out to 2035 using reasonable growth rates, with the 10-year FCF estimate reaching over CN115.45 billion. All these projections are expressed in billions of Chinese Yuan (CN) and serve as the basis for the 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity model used for valuation.

The Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model estimates the true worth of a company by forecasting its future cash flows and then discounting them back to todays value. This approach provides a grounded view of intrinsic value, regardless of short-term market swings.

On our value dashboard, Meituan scores a 4 out of 6 for undervaluation, suggesting there is more beneath the surface than daily price swings. Lets break down the valuation, and stick around for an even more insightful approach at the end, one that goes beyond just numbers.

The stock has popped up 5.6% over the last week and 4.0% in the past month, a noticeable rebound even as the year-to-date return shows a steep -30.9% loss.

Ever wondered if Meituan is simply misunderstood, or if its share price really signals a value opportunity you dont want to miss?

Story Continues

A companys fair or normal PE ratio is not only a function of its profits, but also factors in how quickly it is expected to grow and the risks it faces. If investors expect faster earnings growth or perceive lower risk, they are typically willing to pay a premium, resulting in a higher PE. Conversely, slower growth or higher risk can pull that multiple down.

Meituan is currently trading at a PE of 19.6x. This puts it above the hospitality industry average of 16.1x, but well below the peer group average of 30.9x. At this point, it is important to go beyond simple comparisons. Simply Wall St's proprietary "Fair Ratio" for Meituan is 34.8x. This figure is calculated with a broad view of factors like the companys earnings growth, industry dynamics, profit margins, market capitalization, and risk profile. Unlike peer or industry averages, the Fair Ratio offers a more tailored and holistic picture, capturing nuances that can make a significant difference in assessing value.

Comparing Meituans current PE to its Fair Ratio, the stock appears undervalued by this multiple-based approach, suggesting the current market price may not be fully reflecting Meituans potential.

Result: UNDERVALUED

SEHK:3690 PE Ratio as at Nov 2025

PE ratios tell one story, but what if the real opportunity lies elsewhere? Discover 1441 companies where insiders are betting big on explosive growth.

Upgrade Your Decision Making: Choose your Meituan Narrative

Earlier, we mentioned that there is an even better way to understand valuation, so let's introduce you to Narratives, a tool that allows you to connect your unique perspective on a company directly to financial forecasts and fair value estimates. Rather than just looking at numbers, a Narrative lets you tell the story behind the assumptions: what you believe about Meituans future, how you expect revenue, earnings, and margins to play out, and why. By linking the "why" (your story) with the "what" (the numbers), Narratives give you a complete investment thesis that is easy to update and share.

This approach is available to everyone on Simply Wall St's Community page, where millions of investors weigh in with their own perspectives. With Narratives, you can quickly see if your fair value is above or below the current price, helping you decide if it is time to buy, hold, or sell. Because they refresh instantly as new news or earnings are released, your view stays relevant. For example, some Meituan investors use a bullish story of sustained growth and margin gains to justify a fair value as high as HK$300.96, while others, focusing on intensifying competition and weak profitability, place it as low as HK$78.28. This shows there is always more than one side to every market price.

Do you think there's more to the story for Meituan? Head over to our Community to see what others are saying!

SEHK:3690 Community Fair Values as at Nov 2025

This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Companies discussed in this article include 3690.HK.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
SUDPACK, the producer of films for the packaging sector, has started work on a capacity expansion for its PharmaGuard blister packaging range at its logistics site in Erolzheim, Germany.

The aim is to bring the new facilities on stream in the third quarter of 2027.

The project will see the addition of new production areas dedicated to PharmaGuard, SUDPACK Medicas polypropylene mono-material blister solution for solid-dose applications.

It will also include a new unit to regranulate plastic waste generated during manufacturing.

The German company's output at its main site in Ochsenhausen will not be sufficient to meet projected lon-term demand.

The first stage of the Erolzheim scheme involves converting an existing hall to accommodate an ISO 7-classified cleanroom for GMP-compliant production, including a new extrusion line and a slitting machine.

A separate extension will be constructed to house the sites technical infrastructure and the planned regranulation facility.

Construction work is due to be finalised by June 2026.

Installation of the production technology will then follow, with commissioning of the new capacity targeted for the third quarter of 2027.

The ground-breaking ceremony for the project was attended by representatives of the company and the local community.

The development is expected to generate around 50 new jobs when fully operational, with a further 120 positions anticipated by 2030 as part of later expansion stages.

SUDPACK described the project as an important step for the family-owned group and its regional base, in line with the growth and sustainability agenda pursued by second-generation managing partners Johannes Remmele and Carolin Grimbacher since the business was established in 1964.

Erolzheim Mayor Jochen Ackermann stated: SUDPACK continues to demonstrate its strong commitment to Germany as a business location  even under challenging economic conditions. As a successful, forward-looking company and one of the regions major employers, it is creating new jobs.

"SUDPACK begins PharmaGuard blister capacity expansion in Germany " was originally created and published by Packaging Gateway, a GlobalData owned brand.




With a market cap of $130.8 billion, Eaton Corporation plc (ETN) is a power management company that serves multiple industries through segments including Electrical Americas, Electrical Global, Aerospace, Vehicle, and eMobility. The company provides a wide range of electrical products, hydraulic systems, aerospace components, and industrial solutions.

Companies valued at more than $10 billion are generally considered large-cap stocks, and Eaton fits this criterion perfectly. Eaton offers advanced vehicle technologies and power management systems for both traditional and electric mobility applications.

More News from Barchart

Shares of the Dublin, Ireland-based company have fallen 14.5% from its 52-week high of $399.56. Eatons shares have declined 2.9% over the past three months, underperforming the Industrial Select Sector SPDR Funds (XLI) marginal dip over the same time frame.

www.barchart.com

In the longer term, ETN stock is up nearly 3% on a YTD basis, lagging behind XLIs nearly 16% return. In addition, shares of the power management company have dropped 9.4% over the past 52 weeks, compared to XLIs 6.3% return over the same time frame.

Despite recent fluctuations, the stock has been trading above its 50-day moving average since late April.

www.barchart.com

Despite beating adjusted EPS expectations with $3.07, ETN shares fell 2.3% on Nov. 4 as the company reported weaker-than-expected Q3 2025 revenue of $6.99 billion. Investors were also concerned about significant weakness in Eatons Vehicle and e-Mobility segments, which saw sales declines of 8% to $639 million and 19% to $136 million, respectively.

However, ETN stock has performed better than its rival, Honeywell International Inc. (HON). Shares of Honeywell have dipped 10.9% on a YTD basis and 12.6% over the past 52 weeks.

Despite the stocks underperformance relative to the sector, analysts remain moderately optimistic about its prospects. ETN stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy from 23 analysts' coverage, and the mean price target of $418.43 is a premium of 22.5% to current levels.

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
The European Commission has approved a new Strategic Framework for a Competitive and Sustainable EU (European Union) Bioeconomy, outlining measures to speed up the industrial roll-out of bio-based materials and technologies, including those used in packaging.

The plan focuses on widening the use of renewable biological resources from land and sea to reduce fossil-based inputs, bolster supply security and support more circular, low-carbon production models.

According to the Commission, the EU bioeconomy was worth up to 2.7tn ($3.12tn) in 2023 and provided 17.1 million jobs.

Bio-based plastics, fibres and chemicals are already present in sectors such as packaging, automotive components and personal care.

The framework aims to push bio-based solutions from the lab to the market by boosting innovation and investment.

Planned actions include simplifying regulation, speeding up authorisations for new products and aligning EU funding with bio-based technologies.

A proposed Bioeconomy Investment Deployment Group would work to assemble a pipeline of investable projects and draw in private finance.

To foster lead markets, the commission has pinpointed areas with significant potential: bio-based plastics, fibres, textiles, chemicals, fertilisers, construction materials, advanced fermentation and permanent storage of biogenic carbon.

The strategy also suggests establishing a Bio-based Europe Alliance under which European companies would collectively purchase 10bn of bio-based solutions by 2030.

Ensuring sustainable biomass supply is central to the framework.

The commission stresses maintaining broad self-sufficiency while keeping forests, soils, water and ecosystems within ecological thresholds.

Planned incentives target farmers and foresters who protect soil health, enhance carbon storage and support sustainable biomass production.

The strategy also envisages partnerships to strengthen Europes role in global bio-based markets, limit resource risks and improve industrial resilience.

The new framework updates and redirects the EU Bioeconomy Strategy launched in 2012 and reviewed in 2018 and 2022, placing stronger emphasis on industrial scale-up, competitiveness and resilience.

Clean, Just and Competitive Transition executive vice-president Teresa Ribera stated: The bioeconomy holds the answer to combining prosperity with environmental protection. It restores ecosystems while leading on biotechnologies.

Finnish-based material solutions company UPM welcomed the EUs new Bioeconomy Strategy, calling it a decisive step to boost growth, innovation, competitiveness and climate neutrality through renewable and circular bio-based solutions.
In recent weeks, European markets have experienced declines, with the pan-European STOXX Europe 600 Index falling by 2.21% amid concerns over inflated AI stock valuations and receding expectations for a U.S. interest rate cut. Despite these challenges, eurozone business activity has shown steady expansion, suggesting resilience in certain sectors. In this environment of market uncertainty, growth companies with high insider ownership can be particularly appealing to investors due to the potential alignment of interests between insiders and shareholders, indicating confidence in the company's future prospects amidst broader economic fluctuations.

Top 10 Growth Companies With High Insider Ownership In Europe

Name Insider Ownership Earnings Growth Pharma Mar (BME:PHM) 12% 41.5% MilDef Group (OM:MILDEF) 13.7% 83% MedinCell (ENXTPA:MEDCL) 12.5% 96.3% KebNi (OM:KEBNI B) 36.3% 61.2% Elliptic Laboratories (OB:ELABS) 22.5% 109.1% DNO (OB:DNO) 13.5% 97.5% CTT Systems (OM:CTT) 17.5% 52% Circus (XTRA:CA1) 24.1% 65.8% CD Projekt (WSE:CDR) 29.7% 50.6% Bonesupport Holding (OM:BONEX) 10.4% 49.7%

Click here to see the full list of 202 stocks from our Fast Growing European Companies With High Insider Ownership screener.

Here we highlight a subset of our preferred stocks from the screener.

Simply Wall St Growth Rating: 

Overview: Ercros, S.A. is a Spanish company engaged in the manufacturing and sale of basic chemicals, intermediate chemicals, and pharmaceuticals with a market cap of 302.65 million.

Operations: The company's revenue segments include 62.24 million from pharmaceuticals, 376.44 million from chlorine derivatives, and 182.19 million from intermediate chemicals.

Insider Ownership: 15.9%

Ercros, S.A. shows potential as a growth company with high insider ownership in Europe. Despite a recent net loss of 41.22 million for the first nine months of 2025, Ercros is forecast to achieve profitability within three years, outpacing average market growth. Revenue is expected to grow at 9.6% annually, surpassing the Spanish market rate. However, its dividend yield of 2.9% lacks coverage by free cash flows and share price has been volatile recently.

BME:ECR Ownership Breakdown as at Nov 2025

Simply Wall St Growth Rating: 

Overview: Bonesupport Holding AB is an orthobiologics company that develops and sells injectable bio-ceramic bone graft substitutes across Europe, North America, and internationally, with a market cap of SEK13.29 billion.
(Reuters) -The former chief financial officer of View settled a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission lawsuit claiming he negligently allowed the company to understate the cost of replacing defective "smart windows."

Lawyers for Vidul Prakash and the SEC reached an agreement in principle to end the civil case, subject to approval by SEC commissioners, according to a Wednesday filing in San Jose, California, federal court. Both sides want the case put on hold during the approval process.

An SEC spokesperson declined to comment. Prakash's lawyers did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The settlement was disclosed three weeks after U.S. District Judge Beth Labson Freeman rejected Prakash's claim that the SEC could not prove he violated antifraud and other provisions of federal securities laws.

Smart windows have tinted panes that adjust with the sun, and are common in office buildings.

The SEC said View understated window-related liabilities stemming from a defective sealing component by $53 million in 2019 and 2020, by not disclosing shipping, installation and manufacturing costs.

Prakash said the SEC could not show he knew or should have known View would cover those costs.

View went public through a $1.6 billion merger with a Cantor Fitzgerald-backed special purpose acquisition company in March 2021. It decided to restate more than two years of financials and replace Prakash as CFO eight months later.

The Milpitas, California-based company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in April 2024 and agreed to go private.

(Reporting by Jonathan Stempel in New YorkEditing by Rod Nickel)
By Francesco Guarascio

HANOI (Reuters) -China's leading telecommunication firms Huawei and ZTE have won a string of contracts this year to supply 5G equipment in Vietnam, in another sign of Hanoi's strengthening bonds with Beijing, stirring concern among Western officials, seven people with direct knowledge of the situation told Reuters.

For years, Vietnam was seen as reluctant to use Chinese technology in sensitive infrastructure, but in recent months it has embraced Chinese tech companies as sometimes frosty relations with its northern neighbour have warmed while ties with Washington have soured over tariffs on Vietnamese goods.

While Sweden's Ericsson and Finland's Nokia secured contracts for Vietnam's 5G core infrastructure, with U.S. chipmaker Qualcomm providing network equipment, Chinese companies have begun winning smaller tenders with state-owned operators, so far unreported public procurement data shows.

A consortium including Huawei was awarded a $23 million contract for 5G equipment in April, weeks after the White House announced tariffs on Vietnamese goods. ZTE has won at least two contracts, one last week, totalling more than $20 million for 5G antennas. The first publicly disclosed deal came in September, a month after U.S. tariffs took effect.

Reuters could not establish whether the timing of these wins was linked to U.S. tariffs, but the deals raised concerns among Western officials.

The exclusion of Chinese contractors from Vietnam's digital infrastructure, including undersea fibre-optic cables, has long been identified by Washington as a key condition for support in advanced technologies.

Huawei and ZTE are banned from U.S. telecom networks as an "unacceptable risk" to national security. Sweden and other European countries have similar restrictions.

Ericsson declined to comment on Chinese companies, but said it was "fully committed to support its customers in Vietnam."

"Access to secure and trusted networks is key for all countries, increasingly so as more critical functions of society become digital," Sweden's foreign ministry said in a statement when asked about Chinese 5G contracts in Vietnam.

Neither Huawei, ZTE, Nokia, Qualcomm, the U.S. embassy in Vietnam, China's embassy, nor Vietnam's tech ministry responded to requests for comment.

VIETNAM-CHINA TIES WARM

The unaligned Southeast Asian nation is a crucial battleground in the competition for global influence. Its proximity to China has made it a major industrial hub for multinationals such as Apple, Samsung and Nike, which rely on Chinese components and Western consumers.
Ford CEO Jim Farley learned from older employees that some young workers at the carmaker were taking shifts at Amazon to make ends meet, he said at the Aspen Ideas Festival. Farley said he drew on founder Henry Fords decision to raise factory wages to $5 a day in 1914 to make temporary workers into full-time employees. Young people have previously eschewed manufacturing jobs due to low wages.

Some economists credit carmaker Henry Ford for jump-starting the American middle class in the 20th century when, in January 1914, he hiked factory wages to $5, more than double the average wage for an eight-hour workday.

More than 100 years later, facing the reality of many employees barely getting by, Ford CEO Jim Farley said he took a page out of the founders playbook.

The carmakers chief executive recognized the need to make a change in his workplace when he spoke to veteran employees during union contract negotiations and learned young Ford employees were working multiple jobs and getting inadequate sleep because of low wages, Farley said in an interview with journalist and biographer Walter Isaacson at the Aspen Ideas Festival earlier this year.

The older workers whod been at the company said, None of the young people want to work here. Jim, you pay $17 an hour, and they are so stressed, Farley said.

Farley learned some workers also held jobs at Amazon, where they worked for eight hours before clocking in to a seven-hour shift at Ford, sleeping for only three or four hours. At a Ford Pro Accelerate event in September, the CEO said entry-level factory workers told him they were working up to three jobs.

As a result, the company made temporary workers into full-time employees, making them eligible for higher wages, profit-sharing checks, and better health care coverage. The transition was outlined in 2019 contract negotiations with the United Auto Workers (UAW), with temporary workers able to become full-time after two years of continuous employment at Ford.

It wasnt easy to do, Farley said. It was expensive. But I think thats the kind of changes we need to make in our country.

Fords own decision to double factory wages in 1914 was not altruistic, but rather a strategy to attract a stable workforce, as well as provide a stimulus for his own workers to be able to afford Ford products.

He said, Im doing this because I want my factory worker to buy my cars. If they make enough money, theyll buy my own product, Farley said. Its a self-fulfilling prophecy, in a way.

Trouble attracting Gen Z trade workers

Farley, a proponent of growing U.S. manufacturing productivity to support the essential economy, has advocated for young workers to have strong trade experiences. Earlier this month, he sounded the alarm on the shortage of manual laborers, saying in an episode of the Office Hours: Business Edition podcast that Ford had 5,000 open mechanic positions that have remain unfilled, despite an up-to $120,000 salary for the role.
Bridgewater Associates made a surprising investment last quarter, snapping up 270,556 CoreWeave (CRWV) shares valued at $37 million. The timing stands out because Ray Dalio, who founded the hedge fund, recently warned about artificial intelligence stocks trading at bubble levels.

Yet Dalio isn't telling anyone to panic and dump their holdings. His argument is more nuanced. Yes, prices have climbed way past what many companies are actually worth, but bubbles don't just pop on their own. They need a catalyst, like sudden policy changes or new wealth taxes, to bring them down, and Dalio is worried about what comes next for investors who stay put.

More News from Barchart

When markets get this frothy, history suggests the following decade typically delivers disappointing gains. Dalio explained the need for portfolio diversification into other asset classes such as gold (XAUUSD). The precious metal recently blew past $4,300 per ounce, hitting fresh records.

www.barchart.com

The CoreWeave purchase shows Bridgewater sees an opportunity despite the warnings. CoreWeave runs specialized data centers built specifically for AI work and maintains close ties with Nvidia (NVDA).

That puts the company right in the path of surging demand for the massive computing horsepower needed to build and operate AI systems. Bridgewater appears willing to ride that wave while keeping Dalio's longer-term cautions in mind.

The Bull Case for CoreWeave Stock

CoreWeave blew past revenue expectations in Q3 but stumbled on its annual guidance, which dragged the stock lower last week. In the September quarter, the AI infrastructure company posted revenue of $1.36 billion, an increase of 134% year-over-year (YoY) and above consensus estimates of $1.29 billion.

Despite the strong quarter, management estimated full-year revenue between $5.05 billion and $5.15 billion, missing analyst forecasts of $5.29 billion. The guidance miss was attributed to construction delays from a third-party data center developer. CEO Mike Intrator explained that the delay involves powered-shell facilities, partially built structures where CoreWeave installs its equipment.

The shortage isn't about actual electricity but instead getting these semi-finished buildings ready for use. Intrator emphasized the delay affects just one location among CoreWeave's 41 data centers and shouldn't hurt the company's massive $55.6 billion backlog.
A lackluster earnings announcement from Gas Malaysia Berhad (KLSE:GASMSIA) last week didn't sink the stock price. However, we believe that investors should be aware of some underlying factors which may be of concern.

This technology could replace computers: discover the 20 stocks are working to make quantum computing a reality.

KLSE:GASMSIA Earnings and Revenue History November 28th 2025

A Closer Look At Gas Malaysia Berhad's Earnings

As finance nerds would already know, the accrual ratio from cashflow is a key measure for assessing how well a company's free cash flow (FCF) matches its profit. The accrual ratio subtracts the FCF from the profit for a given period, and divides the result by the average operating assets of the company over that time. This ratio tells us how much of a company's profit is not backed by free cashflow.

That means a negative accrual ratio is a good thing, because it shows that the company is bringing in more free cash flow than its profit would suggest. While having an accrual ratio above zero is of little concern, we do think it's worth noting when a company has a relatively high accrual ratio. That's because some academic studies have suggested that high accruals ratios tend to lead to lower profit or less profit growth.

Over the twelve months to September 2025, Gas Malaysia Berhad recorded an accrual ratio of 0.41. As a general rule, that bodes poorly for future profitability. To wit, the company did not generate one whit of free cashflow in that time. Over the last year it actually had negative free cash flow of RM86m, in contrast to the aforementioned profit of RM407.1m. It's worth noting that Gas Malaysia Berhad generated positive FCF of RM366m a year ago, so at least they've done it in the past.

That might leave you wondering what analysts are forecasting in terms of future profitability. Luckily, you can click here to see an interactive graph depicting future profitability, based on their estimates.

Our Take On Gas Malaysia Berhad's Profit Performance

As we discussed above, we think Gas Malaysia Berhad's earnings were not supported by free cash flow, which might concern some investors. As a result, we think it may well be the case that Gas Malaysia Berhad's underlying earnings power is lower than its statutory profit. Nonetheless, it's still worth noting that its earnings per share have grown at 12% over the last three years. Of course, we've only just scratched the surface when it comes to analysing its earnings; one could also consider margins, forecast growth, and return on investment, among other factors. So while earnings quality is important, it's equally important to consider the risks facing Gas Malaysia Berhad at this point in time. For example, we've discovered 2 warning signs that you should run your eye over to get a better picture of Gas Malaysia Berhad.
Geomet, a joint venture between European Metals Holdings (49%) and CEZ (51%), has received a grant of up to 360m ($416.98m) from the Czech Government, pending completion of administrative procedures.

The funding, provided by the Czech Republics Ministry of Industry and Trade under the Strategic Investments for a Climate-Neutral Economy programme, will support the advancement of the companys flagship Cinovec lithium project.

The programme is designed to support significant investments in the production and expansion of equipment, key components and critical raw materials needed for the transition to a climate-neutral economy.

It aligns with the European Commissions (EC) Temporary Crisis and Transition Framework and is intended to accelerate economic development and investment in strategic sectors.

The final grant amount will be confirmed upon the formal award and may be lower than the maximum of 360m.

European Metals executive chairman Keith Coughlan said: This is a transformational milestone for European Metals and the Cinovec project. The Czech Governments award of a grant of up to 360m represents one of the largest direct project-level funding commitments to a critical raw materials project within the EU.

Following the previously detailed formal recognition of the project, the approval of such a significant financial contribution clearly demonstrates the support for and importance of Cinovec in the future of European electromobility.

Coming at a time of renewed positive outlook for lithium and strong geopolitical commitment to critical raw material supply chain security, the grant confirms the significant support at both Czech Government and EU levels.

The Cinovec project has been declared a strategic initiative by the EC under the EU Critical Raw Materials Act.

This status provides access to accelerated permitting, funding eligibility through institutions such as the European Investment Bank and one-stop-shop regulatory processes.

The Czech Government has also designated Cinovec as a strategic deposit, which simplifies and prioritises its permitting process under the Czech Construction Code.

The programme supports manufacturing of key components for relevant equipment, as well as production or processing of critical raw materials identified in Regulation (EU) 2024/1252, including lithium.

Its objective is to catalyse rapid and large-scale investments to strengthen European energy security, bolster supply chain resilience and enhance industrial competitiveness.

The next steps for the Cinovec lithium project include completion of administrative processes to issue the formal grant-award decision, incorporation of the grant into Cinovecs project finance structure, ongoing coordination with the Ministry and CzechInvest on eligible-cost planning and reporting, and finalisation of construction readiness activities once remaining approvals are completed.
Cheniere Energy Inc. (NYSE:LNG) is an affordable blue-chip stock to buy. On November 3, Goldman Sachs reiterated a Buy rating on the stock but cut the price target to $275 from $2780. The price target cut is in response to what the investment bank terms soft quarterly results due to feedgas quality challenges.

Goldman Sachs Cuts Cheniere Energy, Inc. (LNG) Price Target on Soft Q3 Results but Asserts Buy Rating

Photo by Max Bender on Unsplash

In the third quarter, Chenier Energy generated $4.44 billion in revenue below $4.89 billion expected. On the other hand, earnings per share came in at $4.75, better than $2.92 expected. Amid mixed third-quarter results, management reiterated full-year EBITDA guidance, contrary to expectations of a potential downside revision.

Goldman Sachs also reiterated its Buy stance on Cheniere, reiterating its commitment to shareholder value. The company repurchased $1 billion in the quarter and pointed to continued high levels of buyback activity. In addition, the investment bank sees substantial value in the companys EBITDA profile.

Cheniere Energy, Inc. (NYSE:LNG) is a leading producer and exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG) in the United States, providing energy to markets worldwide. It operates two extensive LNG liquefaction and export facilities on the US Gulf Coast: the Sabine Pass facility in Louisiana and the Corpus Christi facility in Texas.

While we acknowledge the potential of LNG 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.

READ NEXT: 10 Affordable Blue Chip Stocks to Buy and 10 Must-Buy Non-Tech Stocks to Invest In.

Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
WARN-related layoff filings have risen to their highest levels in nearly a decade, Goldman found.

Outplacement firm data showed corporate layoff announcements peaking outside a recession.

Goldman said it has not concluded that AI is driving a significant share of recent job cuts.

Goldman Sachs researchers are warning that the US labor market may be starting to soften as private-sector data show a growing wave of layoffs across several industries, the Wall Street bank said in a new report.

The firm said state filings related to planned mass layoffs have surged to their highest level since 2016, excluding the pandemic spike  the sharpest increase Goldman has tracked in nearly a decade.

Layoff announcements compiled by Challenger, Gray & Christmas, a firm that tracks corporate job cuts, had by October climbed to a level previously unseen outside of a recession, the report noted, citing cuts in sectors like tech, industrial goods, and food and beverage as factors that drove the increase.

Goldman's economists said the combination of rising layoff signals is concerning  representing "growing signs of weakness"  because workers are increasingly struggling to secure new employment, making rebounding after losing a paycheck especially difficult.

Even some of corporate America's biggest names haven't evaded the job market's cooling. Amazon, for example, announced plans this fall to eliminate about 14,000 corporate jobs as it seeks to streamline and embrace AI.

"A sustained increase in layoffs would be particularly concerning because the hiring rate for workers is low and it is harder than usual for the unemployed to find jobs," economists Manuel Abecasis and Pierfrancesco Mei wrote.

Decade-high layoff signals

The state filings Goldman cited  known as Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification, or WARN, notices  are required by companies with more than 100 employees in advance of instituting layoffs. They're a helpful indicator of employer behavior, signaling when cuts may be around the corner.

On top of the rise in WARN notices, the bank found that the leadership of more publicly traded companies had begun openly discussing potential layoffs on recent earnings calls with shareholders. Taken together with the Challenger outplacement data, the picture strongly suggests more companies are considering trims and efficiencies in the coming months.

Still, the bank said weekly jobless claims remain low, which means government reports might not yet reflect the full extent of deterioration in the labor market. A recent Bureau of Labor Statistics jobs report for September surpassed economists' expectations.
A Google executive has issued a warning amid fears that a dotcom-like bubble burst could hit the artificial intelligence market. However, an oft-overlooked issue looms.

What's happening?

Google CEO Sundar Pichai told the BBC in an exclusive interview that he sees "irrationality" in parts of the AI movement, noting that the industry could "overshoot" during its investment cycle.

"I think no company is going to be immune, including us," Pichai said.

His warning was eerily similar to former U.S. Federal Reserve chairman Alan Greenspan's counsel in 1996, when Greenspan cautioned against "irrational exuberance," according to the BBC.

After that warning, the market rose for several more years before the dotcom bubble burst in 2000 amid widespread overvaluation, as detailed by Investopedia.

While Google famously survived the market crash  along with Amazon, eBay, Priceline, and Microsoft, among others  high-profile tech companies like Cisco saw their market value plummet by more than 80%. Some companies went bankrupt.

Why is this important?

Companies are betting big on AI, but not everyone is convinced there's a path to profitability. A recent report from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology discovered that 95% of companies that have tried to incorporate AI haven't made any money from the technology.

This is worrying because a central factor in the dotcom crash of 2000 was the fact that optimistic promises didn't translate into actual earnings. When investments dried up, the market contracted.

Pichai, who also heads Google parent company Alphabet, highlighted another hurdle to the industry's development when speaking with the BBC: AI data centers require massive amounts of energy. According to the International Energy Agency, just one AI-focused data center can gobble up as much energy as 100,000 households.

As it stands, our infrastructure isn't set up to handle this surge. In practice, this can lead to higher electric bills for consumers, grid outages, and  when data centers rely on polluting fuels such as gas or coal  dirtier, less healthy communities that are increasingly feeling the effects of rising global temperatures, from more intense extreme weather to sky-high insurance rates.

TCD's Solar Explorer will connect you with vetted providers who can save you thousands on solar panels, helping you reduce your energy bills and (if paired with battery storage) your reliance on the grid.

What's being done about this?

Even though Pichai expressed some reservations about the AI market, he acknowledged that ignoring its potential doesn't make sense. More accurate weather forecasting, improved health outcomes, and other life-saving AI upgrades could be around the corner  and powering data centers with clean energy could help mitigate the industry's negative environmental impact.

"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," Pichai told the BBC. "I expect AI to be the same. So I think it's both rational and there are elements of irrationality."

As for Google, its history of turning vision into profit may bode well for its chances in the AI race. As it stands, Nvidia controls at least 90% of the market of AI chips, per The Motley Fool. It announced a 62% surge in revenue in its third-quarter fiscal results.

Google appears to be all-in on developing its own superchips to compete with the Jensen Huang-led company that recently became the first in history to reach a $5 trillion valuation.



Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices  and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club.








With Alphabet (GOOG) (GOOGL) poised to generate needle-moving revenue from the artificial intelligence revolution and changing hands at a relatively low valuation, the shares are a buy now. Moreover, Warren Buffetts company, Berkshire Hathaway ((BRK.A) (BRK.B), has given Google its seal of approval, and that development should enable GOOG stock to outperform over the near to medium term. Finally, over the long term, the company could very well get a big boost from its driverless cars.

About Alphabet

Alphabet has many very popular and valuable digital assets, including its Google search engine, YouTube, the Android ecosystem, Gmail, and Google Cloud. However, the firm currently generates the vast majority of its revenue from advertising. In the month that ended on Nov. 25, the shares had climbed 20.5%, causing the companys market capitalization to approach $4 trillion.

More News from Barchart

In the third quarter, the conglomerates revenue jumped 16% versus the same period a year earlier to $102.3 billion, while its operating income, excluding a one-time charge, soared 22% year-over-year.

GOOG stock is changing hands at a trailing price-earnings ratio of 31.4 times, while 44 of 55 analysts who cover the shares rate it a Strong Buy.

www.barchart.com

GOOG Is Poised to Get a Lift From Its AI Businesses

Meta (META), which buys a very high number of AI chips, is reportedly considering utilizing Alphabets AI chips, according to a recent report. The notion that Meta, a big rival of Google in the digital ad space, is even thinking of buying a sizeable number of chips from its competitor suggests that the processors are high-quality products which are poised to attract significant demand.

Indeed, according to one source, GOOGs chips are more cost-effective and power-efficient than Nvidias GPUs. In light of these points, GOOGs chips could easily attract needle-moving revenue for the firm over the longer term.

Staying in the AI space, the companys latest AI model, Gemini 3, won immediate praise for its capabilities in reasoning and coding, as well as niche tasks that have tripped up AI chatbots, Bloomberg reported. Investors have also been pleased by the tech giants partnership with AI startup, Anthropic.

Gemini 3 will also probably boost GOOGs financial results in the longer term.
Grayscales plan to launch the first US Zcash ETF could bring one of cryptos most privacy-driven assets into Wall Streets main spotlight.

The firm filed a Form S-3 with the US Securities and Exchange Commission on Wednesday, November 26, asking to convert the Grayscale Zcash Trust into an exchange-traded fund.

If approved, the product would trade on NYSE Arca under the ticker ZCSH.

According to the preliminary prospectus, the ETF would track CoinDesks Zcash Price Index (ZCX).

Coinbase Custody would hold the underlying asset, Coinbase, Inc. would act as prime broker, and BNY Mellon would serve as transfer agent and administrator.

DISCOVER: Zcash (ZEC) Price Prediction 2025-2040

What Would the Grayscale Zcash Trust ETF Look Like After Conversion?

The goal is simple: give investors regulated, exchange-traded access to ZEC, a cryptocurrency built around privacy.

The filing comes after a tough year for ZEC. The token has made a sharp comeback in recent weeks. The new ETF push lands at a time when interest in privacy-focused transactions is picking up again. CoinDesk noted that Grayscale moved to convert its long-running trust into a spot ETF as ZEC posted some of the strongest gains of 2025.

At press time, ZEC traded near $513, showing an increase of about +5% and moving between roughly $488 and $526 over the past 24 hours.

In the filing, Grayscale states it will rename the product Grayscale Zcsh Trust ETF once regulators approve the conversion.

The documents also note that creations and redemptions are limited to cash for now. In-kind activity may require further steps from the exchange, and theres no clear timeline for when those changes might be allowed.

On November 25, the trust held about 394,400 ZEC, worth roughly $199M based on prices at that time. That figure offers an early look at how the ETF could be seeded if the conversation moves forward.

DISCOVER: 16+ New and Upcoming Binance Listings in 2025

What Do Cash and In-Kind Creations Mean for ZCash Investors?

The ETF aims for its share price to track the value of the trusts ZEC holdings, minus fees, using the ZCX index as a benchmark. New shares and redemptions would begin in blocks of 10,000, with cash orders handled by a liquidity provider.

Regulators must grant NYSE Arca the required in-kind approval before it can add in-kind creations.

Analysts say the move reflects ZECs renewed momentum and the significance of seeing a US-listed spot product tied to a privacy coin, a corner of the market often squeezed by AML rules and delistings.

The prospectus spells out the plan clearly. The Trust intends to list the Shares on NYSE Arca under the symbol ZCSH and will switch to the Grayscale Zcash Trust ETF name once the filing takes effect.
This article first appeared on GuruFocus.

Release Date: November 25, 2025

For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.

Positive Points

Grupa Azoty SA (STU:5PL) reported improved performance across all segments in the nine months of 2025 compared to the previous year.

The company secured a waiver for the non-delivery of the ratio to stabilize performance, indicating strong negotiations with financial institutions.

A strategic plan up to 2030 has been published, focusing on core business segments such as fertilizers, chemicals, and advanced chemicals and plastics.

The company reported a positive EBITDA margin of 13.5% in the third quarter, with a significant year-on-year improvement.

Grupa Azoty SA (STU:5PL) has managed to reduce costs significantly, particularly in raw materials, due to declining natural gas prices.

Negative Points

The company is facing challenges in the plastics segment, particularly due to low demand from the automotive and construction sectors.

There is a significant impact from the underutilization of capacities due to lengthy shutdowns and repairs, affecting overall performance.

The demand for fertilizers remains weak, with low global balance and prices not improving significantly.

Grupa Azoty SA (STU:5PL) is dealing with high debt levels, with a net debt to EBITDA ratio over 14 times as of September 2025.

The company is experiencing financial strain from the Polymere Polite project, with ongoing negotiations for stabilization and potential sale of assets.

Q & A Highlights

Q: Do you see any effects of the new tariffs on Russian fertilizers, and if so, how and to which extent and when will these effects be fully visible in the fertilizers segment? A: As I said before, we do not see those effects yet. They were only implemented as of the 1st of July. The very high record-breaking levels of import in the first half of the year translated into the market situation. They are in Poland, but they are still in the transshipment terminals, and the prices are pre-customs duties prices still. We expect that the effects will be shifted by 6 months, meaning they will be seen as of the 1st of January 2026.

Q: What is your assessment of the higher customs duties on the prices of products across Poland? A: We see that the higher prices are not of major importance in Poland. Fertilizers in Poland are sold at very competitive prices versus other countries, so we cannot say that it has any major impact on the situation of farmers.
Emily Fontaine is the global head of venture capital at IBM. The companys venture fund, IBM Ventures, is a $500 million fund currently focused mostly on AI and quantum computing. So far it has made 23 investments in companies including Hugging Face (tools for machine learning), Not Diamond (optimizes the choice of AI model on a task-by-task basis), Unstructured (which structures data for LLMs), QEDMA (error correction in quantum computing), and Reality Defender (deepfake detection software).

Fontaine talked to Fortune recently about what she is looking for when she invests.

Primarily, IBM is focused on business-to-business companies, especially if they fit into IBMs ecosystem of clients and customers, she said.

Were looking for investments that are ready to scale, ready to partner, deploying responsible AI, [using] what we call the capital-plus model, Fontaine said. The plus aspect is that unlike a standalone VC fund, IBM has the ability to find new customers for its startups among its current clients.

We actually have an over 90% collaboration rate with our portfolio companies, Fontaine said.

We look at three key areas for every one of our investments. The first, products or capabilities. The second being: Are they an ecosystem partner? Generally, they fall within those two categories. The third being: Are they very disruptive to industry? And we work very closely with IBM Research on those ones that are totally disrupting the industry and doing something incredibly novel.

Some of the investments focus on products that IBM itself wants to use.

At IBM, we are client zero. We drink our own champagne and what I mean by that is we use our own capabilities internally to drive a ridiculous amount of value.

An example of that is AskHR, IBMs internal HR app, which is driven by AI.

I have a ton of amazing, young employees that all need an apartment, Fontaine said. I need a mortgage rate! I need all these things! So before it used to be, Zach would come to me, ask me for this. Id go to HR. HR would make the request. Theyd come back to me. And it would take time. Now, we can go to AskHR, he can get it immediately.

Fontaine said IBM was on course to save $4.5 billion in operating expenses this year due to its internal adoption of AI tools.

In terms of quantum computing, IBM has so far been more focused on the software and algorithm side of the challenge than hardware, Fontaine said (although IBM has developed quantum chip hardware and deployed it in the real world). One example is QEDMA, an Israeli company whose software focuses on quantum error correction. (Quantum chip output involves a lot of noise that requires some method to resolve the data into something reliably useful.)
MINNEAPOLIS (AP)  The production lines at Indeed Brewing moved quickly, the cans filling not with beer, but with THC-infused seltzer. The product, which features the compound that gets cannabis users high, has been a lifeline at Indeed and other craft breweries as alcohol sales have fallen in recent years.

But that boom looks set to come to a crashing halt. Buried in the bill that ended the federal government shutdown this month was a provision to ban those drinks, along with other impairing beverages and snacks made from hemp, which have proliferated across the country in recent years. Now the $24 billion hemp industry is scrambling to save itself before the provision takes effect in November 2026.

Its a big deal," said Ryan Bandy, Indeed's chief business officer. "It would be a mess for our breweries, for our industry, and obviously for a lot of people who like these things.

Here's what to know about the looming ban on impairing products derived from hemp.

Congress opened the door in 2018

Marijuana and hemp are the same species. Marijuana is cultivated for high levels of THC in its flowers. Low-THC hemp is grown for its sturdy fibers, food or wellness products. Rope, not dope was long the motto of farmers who supported legalizing hemp.

After states began legalizing marijuana for adult use over a decade ago, hemp advocates saw an opening at the federal level. As part of the 2018 farm bill, Congress legalized the cultivation of industrial hemp to give farmers, including in Republican Sen. Mitch McConnell's home state of Kentucky, a new cash crop.

But the way that law defined hemp  as having less than 0.3% of a specific type of THC, called delta-9  opened a huge loophole. Beverages or bags of snacks could meet that threshold and still contain more than enough THC to get people high. Businesses could further exploit the law by extracting a non-impairing compound, called CBD, and chemically changing it into other types of impairing THC, such as delta-8 or delta-10.

The result? Vape oil, gummy candies, chips, cookies, sodas and other unregulated, untested products laden with hemp-derived THC spread around the country. In many places, they have been available at gas stations or convenience stores, even to teens. In legal marijuana states, they undercut heavily taxed and regulated products. In others, they evaded the prohibition on recreational use of weed.

Some states, including Indiana, have reported spikes in calls to poison-control centers for pediatric exposure to THC.

A patchwork of state regulations
Hong Kong's insurance sector is expected to face record claims of HK$2.6 billion (US$334 million) related to the deadly fire in Tai Po, the worst in seven decades that claimed 55 lives and seriously damaged seven buildings, according to industry insiders.

The fire would lead to a surge in insurance payments for personal and property coverage in the coming year, they said.

The Insurance Authority on Thursday set up a special task force led by senior executives to ensure all insurance companies sped up their compensation processes for claims related to the fire in which nearly 280 people were still missing. Among those hospitalised, 45 were in serious condition.

Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team.

"Many insurance companies have already taken immediate action, such as setting up hotlines, as well as simplifying and speeding up the claims process to provide additional help to those affected to cope with the tough times," said Stephen Yiu Kin-wah, chairman of the Insurance Authority, in a statement.

Thousands of victims lost their homes after a massive blaze broke out on Wednesday in seven of eight buildings under renovation at Wang Fuk Court in the northern New Territories. The blaze was only brought under control on Thursday afternoon.

Members of the Hong Kong Federation of Insurers were taking proactive measures to help, such as waiving the need for death certificates to process death claims and offering holidays and grace periods on premium payment, according to a statement by the industry guild.

"Our member companies are fully equipped to assist victims in their time of need, providing resources and support to help them through this difficult journey towards recovery," said Selina Lau, the federation's CEO.

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) and the Hong Kong Association of Banks were also taking steps to help the victims. They urged banks to adopt a flexible approach to assist those who need funds, including prioritising loan applications and waiving late repayment fees.

The HKMA urged banks to add staff at their branches in Tai Po to provide prompt service.

HSBC said those affected by the fire could access the bank's services without producing Hong Kong identification cards, passbooks or ATM cards, while its insurance arm, HSBC Life, would fast track claims. Bank of East Asia said it would keep its Tai Po branch open until 6pm on Friday, and until 4pm on Saturday and Sunday.
A storefront sign reading Come in, We Are Open displayed on a shop window. Photo: Tim Mossholder / Pexels

(The Center Square)  Although the National Federation of Independent Business Uncertainty Index reached its lowest point of the year in October, small businesses in Illinois still face the prospect of higher taxes and red tape.

NFIB Illinois State Director Noah Finley said the federal law enacted by President Donald Trump extended the small business tax deduction and fueled a twelve-point decline in the NFIB Uncertainty Index.

Thats a 20% deduction for small businesses to bring greater parity between a small business and a large corporation. Thats millions of dollars of savings for small businesses. It brought increased certainty, so they can plan, they can invest, they can hire. Thats been huge for small businesses. Nine out of ten small businesses will benefit from that, Finley explained.

Finley said there is uncertainty for small businesses in Illinois, after Gov. J.B. Pritzkers office projected future budget deficits.

Theres just continual talk of tax increases. Were continuing to see new proposals introduced in the General Assembly to drive increased red tape and bureaucratic requirements for many of these small businesses, Finley said.

Last week, Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity announced nearly $10 million in state taxpayer funding for 47 small businesses through the Small Business Capital and Infrastructure Grant Program.

The grants are limited to businesses owned by Socially Economically Disadvantaged Individuals with a maximum of 25 full-time permanent employees or Very Small Businesses with less than 10 employees.

Pritzker recognized Democratic state lawmakers standing behind him when he announced the grants in Skokie last Friday.

When you send really great leaders to Springfield to represent you, it makes our job so much easier, the governor said.

The Illinois Senate voted to confirm NFIB Illinois State Director Noah Finley to the states Employment Security Advisory Board during the fall veto session, after Pritzker appointed Finley to represent employers on the board for a two-year term.

Finley said Small Business Saturday helps drive economic development in Illinois. The national effort falls on Nov. 29 this year, a day after Black Friday. According to Finley, small businesses are the lifeblood of Illinois communities.

These small business owners, they invest in our local communities. They support our local charities, our fundraisers. They hire locally, and oftentimes they source locally, too. Theyre really drivers of Main Street economies across Illinois, Finley said, adding that the holiday season is a huge driver of retail sales for small businesses.
Key Points

IonQ is the most established of the pure-play quantum computing stocks.

The company is generating material revenue.

Profitability is years away, and its valuation looks optimstic.

10 stocks we like better than IonQ 

Quantum computing stocks have soared since 2024 as enthusiasm about the artificial intelligence (AI) boom has carried over to emerging technologies like quantum.

While quantum stocks are still generating minimal revenue, they are making material technological advances, and tech luminaries, including Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, have given credit to the development, saying it could become very useful sooner than he had expected. Alphabet recently announced another milestone, that its quantum algorithm runs 13,000 times faster than a traditional supercomputer.

IonQ (NYSE: IONQ) has emerged as the leading pure-play company in quantum, though the stock has underperformed peers like Quantum Computing Inc. Like other emerging technology stocks, IonQ has pulled back in recent weeks, but is IonQ a buy today? Let's explore what the stock is offering.

Image source: Getty Images.

What you need to know about IonQ

There are different scientific methods for making quantum computing work, and IonQ uses a trapped-ion process, removing an electron from a ytterbium (Y) atom to create an ytterbium ion, which eventually becomes a qubit, or a quantum bit.

Unlike most of its pure-play quantum computing peers, IonQ has also begun to deliver material revenue. In the third quarter, its revenue jumped 222% to $39.9 million. The business is still deeply unprofitable with a generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) operating loss of $168.8 million.

However, numbers aren't the most important point for a business like IonQ as it's still in the proof-of-concept phase, where it needs to demonstrate that its technology is valuable for customers. Revenue growth, especially in the triple-digit range, is a good sign for IonQ.

Among the company's achievements in the third quarter was a new contract with Oak Ridge National Laboratory to develop advanced energy applications and accelerate quantum-computing workflows. Together with a Swiss consortium, IonQ launched the first citywide dedicated quantum network in Geneva, and the company signed a memorandum of understanding with the U.S. Department of Energy to develop quantum technologies in space.

It's also making acquisitions to build out its technology, taking over Oxford Ionics and Vector Atomic in the third quarter, and IonQ achieved a key milestone as part of its goal of developing 2 million qubits and 80,000 logical qubits by 2030.
The Italian government has given conditional approval to JD.coms planned acquisition of German consumer electronics group Ceconomy, as reported by Reuters, citing a parliamentary document.

The approval was granted under Romes golden power regime, which allows the government to veto or attach conditions to deals - domestic or foreign - that involve assets deemed strategic to the country.

Ceconomy, which controls the MediaMarkt and Saturn retail chains, operates in Italy through the MediaWorld brand.

The deal therefore triggers a change of ownership for these Italian operations as part of the wider $2.5bn transaction between the Chinese and German companies.

The document showed that the Italian cabinet authorised the transaction while imposing a set of unspecified prescriptions that JD.com must meet in order to complete the deal.

No further detail on those requirements was disclosed in the filing.

JD.com, a Chinese e-commerce platform, entered advanced discussions in July 2025 over a voluntary public takeover of Ceconomy.

According to Ceconomys 24 July statement, the potential offer under discussion was 4.60 ($5.33) cash per ordinary share.

JD.com, acting through subsidiary Jingdong Holding Germany, will purchase at least 31.74% of Ceconomy.

MediaMarkt and Saturn together operated 1,030 stores across Europe as of 30 September 2024, employing 50,000 people and operating a sizeable online electronics platform.

In the 2023/24 financial year, Ceconomy recorded total sales of 22.4bn, of which 5.1bn were online.

In August 2024, Walmart sold its stake in JD.com to raise $3.74bn, a term sheet seen by Reuters revealed.

The decision was part of the US retailers strategy to focus on its own operations within China. Walmart sold 144.5 million American depositary shares priced between $24.85 and $25.85.

"Italy grants conditional clearance to JD.coms acquisition of Ceconomy " was originally created and published by Retail Insight Network, a GlobalData owned brand.




HONG KONG  Justin Sun, the founder of the Tron blockchain and an adviser to TrueUSD issuer Techteryx, returned to the podium in Hong Kong with a more forceful version of allegations he first aired in April, accusing First Digital Trust (FDT), a fiduciary company, and its CEO Vincent Chok of exploiting gaps in the citys trust company framework to move hundreds of millions of dollars in TUSD reserves offshore.

At a Thursday press conference in the city, Sun alleged the Hong Kong trust company not only rerouted the stablecoin's reserves offshore but also fabricated transaction documents to mask the transfers.

Techteryx acquired TUSD in 2020 and appointed FDT to be the fiduciary responsible for holding and managing the reserves backing the token.

The follow-up press conference comes months after Sun disclosed a liquidity shortfall in TUSDs reserves and alleged that Hong Kongs trust regulations let FDT reroute nearly half a billion dollars into illiquid offshore vehicles without authorization, as CoinDesk reported earlier this year.

In court filings, Techteryx claimed the transfers went to Aria Commodities DMCC  not to a fund called Aria CFF, as it initially said it was directed  and were tied up in illiquid commodity and infrastructure deals that could not be redeemed, allegations Aria has denied.

Unauthorized money transfers?

Both Techteryx and Aria agree that the reserves ended up in Aria-linked entities. The dispute centers on whether FDT was authorized to send the funds there and whether it understood the assets would be committed to long-term, illiquid trade-finance projects, which are inappropriate for stablecoin reserves.

Techteryx says it instructed FDT to place reserves only in the Aria Commodity Finance Fund, a Cayman vehicle. FDT denies it diverted the money instead to Aria Commodities DMCC, saying it acted strictly on instructions from Techteryx or its representatives. Aria, for its part, says the assets were placed into term-based financing arrangements consistent with the agreements it believed were in place.

Since the first press conference, Dubais Digital Economy Court has issued a worldwide freeze on assets tied to the alleged misappropriation. The ruling does not determine liability and was granted on the basis that there were serious issues to be tried.

The order locks down the assets until Hong Kong courts resolve the dispute, adding external pressure on local regulators to address the custodial practices at the center of the case. The episode has become a test of how Hong Kong regulates trust companies at a time when the city is preparing a stablecoin licensing regime in which custodial controls will be central to investor protection.
U.S. and European oil and gas majors are back to doing business in Libya, a decade after pulling out as civil war engulfed one of the top oil producers and the biggest oil resource holder in Africa.

Amid a relatively calm security situation this year, Libya launched its first bid round for oil and gas exploration in 18 years.

The previous such bid round was held in 2007, four years before the toppling of Muammar Ghaddafi in 2011, which led to a protracted civil war in the country with various factions and tribal interests vying for control of key institutions and major oilfields.

More than a decade after the ousting of Ghaddafi, Libya remains divided with an UN-recognized government based in Tripoli and forces loyal to strongman Khalifa Haftar in the east, where several of Libyas key oil-producing fields and export terminals are located. Haftar and his Libyan National Army (LNA) have long been backed by Russia, which shifted focus to Libya after the toppling of Bashar al-Assad in Syria at the end of last year.

Senior officials of the Tripoli government visited Washington D.C. last week to boost the strategic U.S.-Libya partnership and bilateral relations. And reportedly, to convince the U.S. that Libya needs its help to reduce Russian influence and become a reliable energy partner for Western companies, including the U.S. supermajors ExxonMobil and Chevron.

Big Oil Lines Up for Big Contracts in Libya

Exxon, Chevron, and the top European oil and gas majors have recently signed deals with Libya to return to exploration and production in the country. Big Oil is also bidding in Libyas first exploration bid round in 18 years.

Libya is offering a total of 22 blocks for exploration and development, 11 offshore and 11 onshore blocks, which are believed to hold huge untapped resources. The acreage up for grabs is close to existing infrastructure, which would enable cost-effective exploration and development, and efficient production for global markets, Libya says.

The country has also introduced new, more attractive fiscal conditions for the production sharing agreements it will offer to the successful bidders.

Libyas crude oil production currently exceeds 1.4 million barrels per day (bpd), the National Oil Corporation (NOC) says.

The corporation looks to boost oil production to 2 million bpd within the next three years, contingent on sufficient funding.

The landmark bid round is now in its final stages, and the international majors, including Chevron, Eni, Repsol, Shell, and TotalEnergies, are all pre-qualified to bid in the exploration tender.
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.

LIVE

142 updates
Imperial Brands has seen its fair value price target increase from 33.19 to 34.38 per share, following reassessments from several leading analysts. This modest upward revision is supported by improved revenue growth forecasts and a slightly higher discount rate, reflecting a mix of optimism and caution about the companys near-term prospects. Stay tuned to discover how changes in analyst sentiment may continue to influence Imperial Brands' outlook and how you can stay ahead of these evolving narratives.

Analyst Price Targets don't always capture the full story. Head over to our Company Report to find new ways to value Imperial Brands.

What Wall Street Has Been Saying

Recent analyst commentary on Imperial Brands reflects a generally constructive tone, with several firms adjusting their outlook and price targets upward. However, there remains a degree of caution, with some analysts highlighting persistent valuation and execution considerations.

 Bullish Takeaways

Citi reaffirmed a Buy rating and increased its price target on Imperial Brands to 3,650 GBp from 3,425 GBp. The firm highlighted continued confidence in the companys ability to deliver on execution and growth momentum.

JPMorgan also raised its price target twice in recent months, first to 3,350 GBp from 3,300 GBp and then to 3,500 GBp, both times maintaining an Overweight rating. This reflects optimism regarding Imperial Brands' cost controls and ongoing transparency in operations.

Analysts rewarded improvements in operational execution and steady growth, but some express caution about whether much of the upside is already priced in.

 Bearish Takeaways

RBC Capital's recent revision saw the price target lifted to 2,700 GBp from 2,400 GBp, while maintaining only a Sector Perform rating. This suggests a more cautious outlook, with a preference to wait for further evidence of sustained growth before turning more constructive.

Valuation concerns and near-term risks continue to temper enthusiasm among some analysts, particularly in light of the substantial recovery already reflected in the current share price.

Overall, while the prevailing sentiment among covering analysts is constructive, there remains a spectrum of opinion regarding valuation and the durability of recent operational improvements. These dynamics continue to shape the near-term outlook for Imperial Brands' shares.

Do your thoughts align with the Bull or Bear Analysts? Perhaps you think there's more to the story. Head to the Simply Wall St Community to discover more perspectives or begin writing your own Narrative!
Although many well-meaning people recommend that everyone get a mentor, whether they need one personally or professionally, Mark Cuban has frequently said he doesnt think people should.

Find Out: The No. 1 Key To Wealth, According To Wahei Takeda, the Warren Buffett of Japan

Learn More: 8 Things You Must Do When Your Savings Reach $50,000

In fact, Cuban often says that people shouldnt rely on anyone except themselves when it comes to making money, building wealth or pursuing a business. He has never had a formal mentor, and has said there is no specific person he calls for advice.

What Mark Cuban Recommends Instead of Mentors

Cuban says that rather than consulting mentors for advice, he takes radical responsibility when he needs to learn something. If there is a new technology on the horizon, he figures it out himself. Thats because, he explains, mentors rely on past knowledge and may not be able to give advice on future ventures.

While it might seem like a good thing that mentors have experience, there are several instances when well-known entrepreneurs wanted to try something new, only to have their mentors caution them against it. In a recent Inc. article, author Jeff Haden shared a few examples of other notable entrepreneurs whose mentors recommended different paths.

For example, Jeff Bezos boss said his concept for Amazon would be better suited to someone else to start, someone who didnt have a secure job like Bezos. And Warren Buffetts father cautioned against entering the securities industry. These examples support Cubans belief that mentors can only draw on experience; they might not know how to advise on new technology or innovation.

Read Next: Im Retiring a Multimillionaire: Heres What I Wish I Knew in My 30s

Can Mentors and Financial Advisors Be Helpful?

Of course, mentors and advisors can help in many situations, and many businesses rely on consultants to help solve complex problems. For example, financial advisors can help clients avoid costly mistakes and develop a wealth-building strategy.

Overall, Cubans central message is to encourage others to take ownership of their choices and to stay informed. For many people, that could mean meeting with a mentor or hiring a financial advisor if they need help. However, Cuban believes people should understand why a mentor encourages them to make specific decisions, rather than unquestioningly trusting an advisor and acting without thinking.

Ultimately, Cuban explains that the most important ingredient for success is for people to recognize that every choice is ultimately up to them. Individuals are responsible for their own destinies and need to make confident choices in both their professional and personal lives.
Microsoft is deepening its global clean energy footprint with new solar power agreements in Mexico, Brazil, and Spain, aiming to reduce its carbon footprint while supporting community development in key growth markets.

In Latin America, Microsoft has partnered with Powertrust, an energy procurement platform, to back the construction of 270 MW of solar capacity over the next four years. The projects, spread across Mexico and Brazil, will generate Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) that Microsoft will purchase to offset its energy use.

According to Microsofts energy director Danielle Decatur, the partnership will enable sustainability infrastructure that enhances the well-being of local communities. Both companies emphasized that the initiative will target regions with limited access to low-carbon energy, creating jobs, training workers, and partnering with local NGOs to ensure equitable project development.

Powertrust CEO Nick Fedorkiw described the deal as a powerful example of how corporate climate leadership can go hand-in-hand with community empowerment, noting that distributed solar offers tangible benefits to the people who need them most.

While RECs remain a debated mechanismoften criticized for not directly guaranteeing new clean generationthe deal aligns with Microsofts broader efforts to expand renewable infrastructure across emerging markets. The tech giant previously signed a 15-year wind power deal in Brazil with AES and continues to invest heavily in regional cloud and AI facilities, committing $2.7 billion in Brazil alone.

In Europe, Microsoft has struck a long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Spanish developer Zelestra for 95.7 MW of solar power from two projects in AragonEscatron II and Fuendetodos II. Beyond supplying Microsofts local data centers, the deal will fund a Community Fund managed by the NGO ECODES, supporting local infrastructure, education, and sustainability programs.

These agreements form part of Microsofts global plan to match 100% of its electricity use with zero-carbon power by 2025 and become carbon negative by 2030. The company has already contracted 34 GW of renewable capacity worldwide and continues to lead among major tech firms in advancing climate-focused investments tied to social impact.

Oilprice Intelligence brings you the signals before they become front-page news. This is the same expert analysis read by veteran traders and political advisors. Get it free, twice a week, and you'll always know why the market is moving before everyone else.

You get the geopolitical intelligence, the hidden inventory data, and the market whispers that move billions - and we'll send you $389 in premium energy intelligence, on us, just for subscribing. Join 400,000+ readers today. Get access immediately by clicking here.
ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP) is one of the best large cap stocks to invest in for the long term. Morgan Stanley analyst Devin McDermott reiterated a Buy rating on ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP) on November 20, setting a $117 price target. The rating update followed the companys fiscal Q3 2025 earnings release on November 6, with reported earnings per share of $1.38 and adjusted earnings per share of $1.61.

Why ConocoPhillips (COP) is One of the Most Resilient Safe Dividend Stocks in Oil & Gas

ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP) exhibited strong financial and operational performance in the quarter, which led to higher production and a reduction in operating cost guidance for 2025. The company also raised its base dividend by 8%, consistent with its goal to provide top-quartile dividend growth in the S&P 500.

ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP) expects lower capital and operating costs in 2026, with flat to modest production growth. Supported by its diverse portfolio, the company is on track to deliver an estimated $7 billion in incremental free cash flow by 2029, including $1 billion each year from 2026 through 2028.

ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP) is an exploration and production company that explores, transports, produces, and markets natural gas, crude oil, and bitumen. It operates through the following geographical segments: Alaska, Lower 48, Canada, Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa, Asia Pacific, and Other International.

While we acknowledge the potential of COP 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.

READ NEXT: 30 Stocks That Should Double in 3 Years and 11 Hidden AI Stocks to Buy Right Now.

Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
Staff and customers inside a Supercuts salon - Elliott Cowand Jr/Shutterstock

Before 2025 was over, Gary Robins told the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's online magazine he expected to make $20 million in revenue that year. He isn't a rock star or the creator of the most profitable "Shark Tank" product ever  he's a Supercuts franchiser. And not just any franchiser  he owns 63 Supercuts across Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.

Those 63 locations are only a small portion of the more than 2,600 Supercuts locations operating in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Founded in 1976, the company is now owned by Regis Corp., a Minnesota-based corporation that also owns several other salon brands, including Cost Cutters, Roosters, and First Choice Haircutters. As of 2024, about 93% of Regis' operations are run as franchises.

So how much can a franchise owner actually earn with a single Supercuts location? According to a 2024 franchise agreement, the average gross sales of a Supercuts location were $290,728 in the fiscal year 2022 to 2023. However, that sum does not take into account a slew of investment expenses, franchise fees, and other ongoing costs. According to franchise data platform Vetted Biz, the final figure, after expenses, can span from $39,723 to $51,084. To make a comparison across industries, that's far below the $200,000 to $260,000 a Wendy's franchise owner typically makes each year. It can also take six to eight years for typical Supercuts franchise owners to recoup their investments.

Read more: Small Bets That Paid Off Big Time

The typical expenses of a Supercuts owner

a Supercuts storefront and sign - Kevin Carter/Getty Images

According to the Supercuts franchise agreement of 2024, the total investment needed to start a Supercuts salon was between $185,406 and $317,878; this includes $54,816 to $57,838 that must be paid to Supercuts or an affiliate. In addition, a franchiser will also have to pay fees for advertising (5% of net services revenue monthly, excluding hair products) and royalties (4% of net revenue per month during the first year and 6% monthly thereafter), which are taken even if the Supercuts location is losing money. The 2024 agreement adds that if Supercuts changes its business model, there may be other expenses incurred by the franchisee.

Those figures don't include salaries for employees who, like the franchiser, must be trained by Supercuts' corporate staff using online courses. Per Indeed.com, average salaries at Supercuts can range from $18.80 per hour for a cosmetologist to $24.10 an hour for a stylist. A sales assistant at Supercuts makes an average of $36,250 a year.
Dutch semiconductor manufacturer Nexperia has publicly appealed to its Chinese subsidiaries to resume engagement and help re-establish normal production flows, following months of disruption triggered by a government takeover in the Netherlands.

In an open letter yesterday (27 November), Nexperias Dutch operation said it had made repeated and multiple attempts to restore communication channels with its China-based entities but had so far failed to secure a response.

The company supplies high volumes of standard chips used widely across automotive and electronics applications.

Interruptions to its output have added to pressure on carmakers and other industrial customers, with component shortages contributing to reduced production and temporary factory stoppages.

Nexperias production model relies on wafer manufacturing primarily at its site in Hamburg, Germany. These wafers are then shipped to a facility in Dongguan, China for packaging before being dispatched to customers worldwide.

The Netherlands took control of Nexperia in September this year, citing concerns that its Chinese owner Wingtech planned to shift European production to China, posing risks to European economic security.

Authorities in The Hague said the intervention was intended to prevent the former chief executive from shifting European operations from the Netherlands to China.

Following the move, Beijing halted exports of Nexperias finished products from China in October, though those restrictions have since been partially eased.

Tensions escalated further when Nexperias Chinese subsidiary announced it no longer considered itself under the authority of European management after the Dutch takeover.

Last week, Wingtech called for its authority over Nexperia to be fully reinstated.

In its open letter, the Dutch unit of Nexperia said: Nexperia B.V. has made repeated and multiple attempts, both formal and informal, to re-establish the dialogue with Nexperias entities in China by means of direct outreach via calls, emails and proposed meetings.

Regrettably, Nexperia did not receive any meaningful response, the letter added.

Nexperia originated in 2017 when NXP sold its Standard Products unit to JAC Capital and Wise Road Capital for $2.75bn. In late 2019, Wingtech Technology acquired a controlling stake for $3.6bn.

"Nexperia calls on Chinese units to help rebuild disrupted supply chain" was originally created and published by Just Auto, a GlobalData owned brand.




Ancient DNA reveals kinship, social structure of China's prehistoric Shimao city

Xinhua) 08:36, November 28, 2025

This image shows a structural diagram of the city walls at the Shimao ruins in Yulin, northwest China's Shaanxi Province. (National Cultural Heritage Administration/Handout via Xinhua)

BEIJING, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- Scientists have harnessed ancient DNA to reconstruct the intricate social structure of one of China's earliest cities, revealing a genetically diverse society anchored in the authority of patrilineal clans.

The research published on Thursday in Nature presents the first direct genetic evidence regarding the origins of the Shimao population -- the builders of Shimao, a massive Neolithic walled settlement in northern China that thrived around 4,300 years ago and was abandoned about 500 years later.

The findings, based on genetic analysis of ancient individuals, offer a glimpse into the kinship practices, including sex-specific sacrificial rituals, of an early state-level society in East Asia.

The 4-million-square-meter Shimao city is the largest known prehistoric settlement in China. Its sophisticated fortifications, including pyramid-like platform, cyclopean stone walls, palatial complexes and stone carving, along with high-status artifacts like exquisite jades, point to a highly complex, stratified society.

Yet anthropologists have long argued over the Shimao population's genetic roots, its relationship to Yellow River farmers and northern steppe pastoralists, and the social order that raised this vast stone metropolis.

ANCESTRY

A team led by Fu Qiaomei from the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology (IVPP) under the Chinese Academy of Sciences analyzed DNA extracted from the remains of 144 individuals excavated from Shimao's core areas and its surrounding satellite settlements.

Globally, only a tiny number of prehistoric sites have produced genomic data for more than a hundred individuals. Shimao, with its immense scale and a social order built on elaborate human sacrifice, is the first such complex society to be decoded by ancient DNA.

Genetic analysis shows that the Shimao people can trace the bulk of their ancestry to local Yangshao culture farmers who tilled the Loess Plateau more than a millennium earlier, underscoring an unbroken chain of regional genetic continuity.

However, the study also uncovered interactions across vast distances. Some individuals carried genetic components linked to the populations from the northern steppes, and ancestry from southern Chinese rice-farming populations was also detected in a few individuals, suggesting broader contacts than previously recognized.

This confirms Shimao's long-term interaction with farmers and herders across China, providing pivotal proof of the early "pluralistic-yet-unified" trajectory of Chinese civilization.

STRUCTURED KINSHIP

A key breakthrough of the research was the reconstruction of extensive family pedigrees within the Shimao society, some spanning up to four generations.

The analysis of tombs from elite burial areas revealed a society organized primarily along patrilineal lines. High-status male tomb owners were central to the kinship networks, with their wives genetically traced to different, external biological families.

The study also shed light on the cruel practice of human sacrifice, a hallmark of Shimao's social hierarchy. Sacrificial victims found in ritual pits and as attendants in high-status tombs showed distinct patterns.

Victims from a skull pit were predominantly male, while those sacrificed to accompany elite individuals in tombs were almost exclusively female.

Also, the sacrificed individuals showed no close biological kinship to the tomb owners, but some sacrificed females were found to be biologically related to each other, suggesting that specific families or communities might have been selected for sacrificial rites, according to the study.

The highly structured sacrificial rituals and the lack of kinship between elites and victims highlighted a rigid social stratification.

The findings also indicate that high-status Shimao lineages appear to have deliberately shunned, or at least rarely practiced, close-kin marriage.

These results have helped uncover fine details about the regional population and social structure during the early establishment of states, said the researchers.

This undated file photo shows artifacts unearthed from a tomb at the Shimao ruins in Yulin, northwest China's Shaanxi Province. (National Cultural Heritage Administration/Handout via Xinhua)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
By Eduardo Baptista and Toby Sterling

BEIJING/AMSTERDAM (Reuters) -Wingtech, the Chinese parent company of Netherlands-based Nexperia, accused its Dutch unit on Friday of conspiring to build a non-Chinese supply chain and permanently strip it of its control, escalating tensions between the two sides.

In a separate statement, Nexperia's Chinese arm demanded the Dutch business halt overseas expansion, including in Malaysia. "Abandon improper intentions to replace Chinese capacity," Nexperia China said.

The accusations follow an open letter from Nexperia published on Thursday claiming repeated attempts to engage with its Chinese unit had failed.

Nexperia, which produces billions of chips for cars and electronics, has been in a tug-of-war since the Dutch government seized the company two months ago on economic security grounds. An Amsterdam court subsequently stripped Wingtech of control.

Beijing retaliated by halting exports of Nexperia's finished products on October 4, leading to disruptions in global automotive supply chains.

The curbs were relaxed in early November and the Dutch government suspended the seizure last week following talks. But the court ruling remains in force.

The chipmaker's Europe-based units and Chinese entities remain locked in a standoff. Nexperia's Chinese arm declared itself independent from European management, which responded by stopping the shipment of wafers to the company's plant in China.

CHINESE PARENT WARNS OF RENEWED SUPPLY CHAIN DISRUPTION

The escalating war of words casts doubt on the viability of a company-led resolution urged by China and the European Union this week.

Wingtech said on Friday that Nexperia's Dutch unit was avoiding the issue of its "legitimate control", making negotiations untenable.

"We need to find a way first to talk to one another constructively" a spokesperson for Nexperia's European headquarters said on Friday.

Nexperia China said that the Dutch unit's claim it could not contact its management was misleading, accusing it of stifling communication by deleting the email accounts of Nexperia China employees and terminating their access to IT systems.

The Chinese unit claimed that the Dutch side was engineering a breakup, citing a $300 million plan to expand a Malaysian plant, and an alleged internal goal of sourcing 90% of production outside China by mid-2026.

Wingtech warned that supply chain disruptions could return if the issue of its control remained unresolved.

"This is therefore far more than a simple corporate control dispute," Wingtech said.
BEIJING (Reuters) -Wingtech, the Chinese parent company of Netherlands-based Nexperia, said on Friday that the Dutch unit was conspiring to create a non-Chinese supply chain and permanently strip it of its control.

Wingtech was responding to an open letter published by Nexperia's Dutch unit on Thursday in which it wrote that it had made repeated and multiple attempts to restore dialogue but had failed to receive a response from its Chinese units.

Nexperia's Dutch and Chinese units have been locked in a standoff ever since the Dutch government seized the company two months ago and an Amsterdam-based court stripped Wingtech of its control over the chipmaker soon after.

While The Hague suspended the seizure last week following talks in Beijing, the court ruling is still in effect, meaning Wingtech's control over Nexperia has not been restored.

(Reporting by Eduardo Baptista; Editing by Joe Bavier)
Japanese automaker Nissan Motor Company reported a 4.8% year-on-year decline in global sales to 258,517 vehicles in October 2025, including Nissan and Infiniti-branded models, down from 271,549 units in the same month last year, reflecting mainly a sharp decline in domestic sales. Sales in Japan plunged by over 22% to 27,703 units last month, while overseas sales were down by 2.2% to 230,814 units  with sales in North America weakening significantly.

In the first ten months of 2025, Nissans global sales fell by 4.1% to 2,664,291 units from 2,777,409 units in the same period last year, with sales in Japan falling by almost 15% to 346,610 units, while overseas sales declined by 2.3% to 2,317,681 units.

Sales in China have rebounded strongly in the last few months, resulting in a 5.9% decline to 524,993 units year-to-date, while sales in Europe fell by 5.2% to 283,375 units. Deliveries in North America rose by 2% to 1,094,623 units, with US sales slightly lower at 778,120 units, while in Mexico sales rose by 7.5% to 220,146 units and in Canada volumes were up by 6.3% to 95,117 units. Sales in other markets combined fell by 6% to 414,690 units.

In terms of production, global volumes dropped by 7.1% to 2,451,800 units in the ten-month period, with output in Japan falling by 12.5% to 477,239 units. Overseas volumes declined by 5.7% to 1,974,561 units, driven lower by a 10.7% drop in US output to 411,089 units and a 5.4% decline in Chinese output to 504,191 units, while production in Mexico declined slightly to 572,928 units. Production in the UK fell by almost 9% to 228,174 units.

Exports from Japan declined by 16% to 270,295 units year-to-date, with shipments to North America dropping by over 30% to 111,878 units and exports to Europe plunging by 35% to 31,164 units, while exports to other markets increased by 12.5% to 127,253 units.

"Nissans global sales drop 5% in October" was originally created and published by Just Auto, a GlobalData owned brand.




Nvidia (NVDA) didnt ring the bell on this one, but its shadow was clearly all over it.

A relatively obscure Beijing chipmaker, Moore Threads, just staged perhaps one of Chinas wildest IPOs in years.

The so-called Nvidia of China, priced 70 million shares at CNY 114.28, raising an eye-popping CNY 8 billion ($1.1 billion), while securing a stratospheric initial valuation near CNY 53.7 billion (around $7.5 billion) when it went public on November 24, on Shanghais STAR Market.

Surprisingly, the real kicker wasnt its valuation but the insatiable investor appetite.

For perspective, it drew 4.83 million retail bidders and an eye-watering 4,126x oversubscription rate.

That equates to nearly CNY 33.7 trillion (about $4.54 trillion) in orders flooding in, with the haul so huge it surged past Nvidias entire market cap at the time ($4.5 trillion at the time of writing).

Furthermore, giants such as China Telecom and Meituan scooped up 14 million shares, while retail and smart money investors requested a superb CNY 116.6 billion in combined bids.

But the incredible enthusiasm wasnt just FOMO.

With U.S. export bans knocking Nvidias China market share from approximately 95% to effectively zero, Beijings tech sector is in desperate need of a home-grown alternative.

Moore Threads gives them just that, and though it isnt a threat to Nvidia at this point, the stars are aligning in a way investors just cant afford to ignore.

A little-known chipmaker is suddenly attracting attention thats hard to ignorePhoto by I-HWA CHENG on Getty Images

All about Moore Threads, Chinas Nvidia

Moore Threads clearly isnt shy about its ambition or its impressive resume.

James Zhang, a 14-year Nvidia veteran and the tech giants former China GM, founded the company in 2020 with the mission to produce robust GPUs for gaming and AI.

More Nvidia:

In doing that, the businesses created their very own CUDA-compatible architecture, MUSA, enabling Chinese developers to run AI and graphics workloads on domestically produced chips.

Its pace of expansion has been dizzying.

In just four short years, Moore Threads pushed out four GPU generations in Sudi, Chunxiao, Quyuan, and 2024s Pinghu.

Related: Jim Cramer drops blunt call on Nvidia stock

If that wasnt dizzying enough, the latest can reportedly train trillion-parameter models, which puts it in the same league as OpenAIs GPT or DeepSeeks LLMs.
Nvidia Corp. is facing rising concerns that its stranglehold on the market for semiconductors used in artificial intelligence computing is slipping. And that skepticism is now showing up in the stock market.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Shares of the chipmaker fell 2.6% on Tuesday following a report suggesting that Alphabet Inc.s AI processors are gaining ground. While the stock rose 2.2% on Wednesday, shares remain down 10% this month, erasing more than $500 billion in market value, as investors grow increasingly fearful of a bubble in AI spending as well as Nvidias circular investments in startups like OpenAI that are also customers.

The slump has left the chipmaker trading at less than 26 times profits projected over the next 12 months, down from about 34 times at the start of this month.

Nvidias valuation was really based on the idea that it would maintain its market share, said Adam Sarhan, chief executive officer of 50 Park Investments. If it starts losing some market share, then investors will reassess what growth could look like, and what kind of valuation it should have.

The stock is cheaper than the Bloomberg Magnificent Seven Index, which has a multiple of around 30, and its the worst performer in the gauge this month. Yet, Nvidias revenue and profit growth is far in excess of the rest of the group: Alphabet, Amazon.com Inc., Apple Inc., Meta Platforms Inc., Microsoft Corp. and Tesla Inc. This year, Nvidias revenue is expected to rise 63%, Meta is next among the Mag Seven at 21%.

That level of growth has the shares looking relatively undervalued given the potential going forward, Sarhan said.

Wall Street doesnt seem particularly concerned about Nvidias trajectory, however. Profit estimates for its next fiscal year are up 12% from a week ago, and of the 80 analysts covering the company, 74 have buy ratings and only one rates it a sell, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.

Even the lone bear, Jay Goldberg of Seaport Global Securities, raised his estimates in the wake of Nvidias earnings report. But he still remains a skeptic.

Nvidias numbers were good, and I moved my numbers up, Goldberg said. But supply constraints are starting to ease, and once you get to the point where you go from excess demand to excess supply, thats a cycle-turning moment. I dont think thats happening in three months, but I think this happens in 2026.
Wipro has entered into a multi-year agreement with Odido Netherlands to deliver an AI-enabled transformation of the Dutch telecommunications providers IT landscape.

Under the terms of the engagement, Wipro will oversee the modernisation and automation of Odidos digital and enterprise technology systems across its business and consumer segments.

The project is structured around a self-funded model, with cost savings from efficiency improvements being reinvested into further digital initiatives.

Wipro will deploy its WEGA and WINGS AI platforms from its Wipro Intelligence suite to support enhancements in service reliability, IT operations, and incident management at Odido.

Wipro Intelligence is a suite of AI-based platforms and solutions designed to help enterprises scale and operate effectively in an AI-driven environment.

Odido Netherlands chief IT officer Robert Purdy said: At Odido, our goal is to make technology more human. Everything we do is driven by a human-centric approach.

This applies not only to our network services and product innovations, but also to our processes, operations, and IT infrastructure.

As part of the engagement, Wipro will implement a conversational AI chat system designed to provide multilingual and context-based self-service capabilities for Odido users.

The company will also apply its experience-led studio model, coordinated by its Designit unit, to integrate design, development, and engineering teams.

This approach aims to address user and business needs early in the process and support the accelerated delivery of digital solutions.

Wipro Western Europe managing director Graziella Neuveglise said: Odidos trust in Wipro reflects our ability to deliver strategic value through intelligent operations, agile development, and a future-ready IT strategy.

This transformation is consulting-led, with our teams shaping the roadmap, optimizing processes, and aligning technology with business goals.

Wipro said its innovation network brings together partners from labs, start-ups, academia, and technology sectors to address complex business challenges.

In August 2025, Wipro announced an agreement to acquire the Digital Transformation Solutions (DTS) business unit from Harman, a Samsung subsidiary.

After the closing of the acquisition, the DTS unit will be integrated into Wipros Engineering Global Business Line.

"Odido selects Wipro to lead end-to-end IT overhaul using AI" was originally created and published by Verdict, a GlobalData owned brand.




Crude oil is holding gains ahead of Sunday's OPEC+ meeting, while U.S. natural gas prices have spiked on the news of a new U.S. LNG export record.

Friday, November 28, 2025

As Russia-Ukraine peace talks drag on, dampening last weeks hopes that a swift resolution could be around the corner, ICE Brent has settled comfortably around $63 per barrel by the end of this week. Low US traded volumes on the back of Thanksgiving, exacerbated by a once-in-a-decade CME blackout, have added to the pricing lull. OPEC+ is an unlikely candidate to sway sentiment in either direction as the November 30 meeting is widely expected to result in a rollover.

OPEC+ Expected to Roll Over Production Quotas. As OPEC+ countries meet this Sunday to discuss production plans for January 2026, the market expectation is that the so-called 'Great Eight' will keep its quota unchanged compared to December, concurrently mulling respective members' capacity.

CME Outage Disrupts WTI Trading. Cooling issues with the CyrusOne data center in Dallas have led to the world's largest exchange operator, CME, halting trade on its platforms, disrupting trading of WTI futures on Friday in a market that routinely trades 26 million contracts per day.

Syria Plans Major Upstream Recovery. The government of Syria has announced plans to boost crude production in the embattled country to 200,000 b/d, doubling current output rates, alongside downstream expansion plans that include the construction of a new 150,000 b/d refinery.

Related: OPEC+ Expected to Extend Pause on Oil Hikes as Prices Stay Weak

Canada Doubles Down on Pacific Egress. Canada's federal government signed a memorandum of understanding with the province of Alberta to build a new oil pipeline wielding a whopping 1 million b/d capacity to connect oil sands to the Pacific Ocean, with construction expected to start in 2029.

Africa's Most Recent Military Coup Derails Oil Ambitions. A military coup led General Horta Nta Na Man toppled the president of Guinea-Bissau, sending shockwaves across upstream markets as US major Chevron (NYSE:CVX) signed a major two-block exploration deal less than a month ago.

Argentina Pulls in Partners to Boost Uruguay Drilling. Argentina's state oil firm YPF has reached an agreement with Italy's ENI for a farm-in into its offshore exploration venture in neighboring Uruguay, hoping to replicate the success of Namibia's Orange Basin that wield similar geological characteristics.

Drones Strike Kurdistan's Largest Gas Field. A drone attack that hit a liquid storage tank shut the 0.75 BCf/d Khor Mor gas field in Iraq's semi-autonomous Kurdistan region, triggering widespread outages across the region as Iraqi militias continue striking the Dana Gas-operated asset.
OpenAI's head of forward-deployed engineering spoke on a podcast about how his team helps companies deploy AI.

Colin Jarvis' team works on high-value projects in the "tens of millions to sometimes the low billions."

The forward-deployed engineering model has gained traction in the tech world in recent months.

A team at OpenAI embeds itself inside some of the world's biggest companies to turn AI models into real-world deployments.

Colin Jarvis, who leads OpenAI's forward-deployed engineering team, explained in an episode of the "Altimeter Capital" podcast published Thursday how his team helps companies generate "tens of millions to sometimes the low billions" in value.

The team is still small: 39 engineers, with plans to grow to 52 by year-end, Jarvis said. OpenAI lists 24 openings for the forward-deployed engineering team in the US, Europe, and Japan, with salaries in the US topping out at $345,000, plus equity, according to the job postings.

The term "forward-deployed engineer" was popularized by Palantir, the defense tech software giant. It describes engineers who work directly with clients to fine-tune the product on-site.

When ChatGPT came out in 2022, the model sparked "tons of hype." "People were really excited, but it was also, like, kind of hard to get value from the models," Jarvis said.

Early enterprise customers struggled to translate that excitement into usable systems. Jarvis said the only consistently successful approach was to embed directly with clients, learn their workflows, and work alongside their staff. This led OpenAI to set up a forward-deployed model.

One of the team's major projects was with Morgan Stanley, which became one of OpenAI's first enterprise customers to deploy GPT-4.

The technical scaffolding took six to eight weeks, but convincing financial advisors to trust the tech took far longer, Jarvis said. The team had to spend another four months running pilots, collecting evaluations, and iterating with wealth advisors.

"In the end, about 98% of them adopted it," he said.

The team also worked with a semiconductor company in Europe to build a "debug investigation and triage agent" that could examine failures and fix bugs. They looked across the company's value chain and realized engineers were spending 70% to 80% of their time debugging chips, Jarvis said.

Jarvis said that forward-deployed engineering teams have to be clear about their purpose. His team avoids "services revenue" and is focused on creating product playbooks, he added.
Some investors express concern that the company may not devote enough attention to a product that represents only 1% of AUM.

The discount to NAV is around 25% to 26%, which is higher than the 10-year average of 19%.

Year-to-date NAV is slightly negative due to FX headwinds, particularly the weakening of the US dollar against major currencies.

Liquidity remains robust with EUR2 million in cash and an undrawn credit facility of EUR111 million, recently renewed at better terms.

A share buyback program of up to EUR15 million was approved, signaling a commitment to managing the discount and creating shareholder value.

For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript .

Story Continues

Q & A Highlights

Q: Cyrill, can you comment on the valuation uplift and the decrease in expected uplifts compared to previous years? A: Cyrill Wipfli, Advisory Partner: The focus is on achieving true and fair value, avoiding under-promising and over-delivering. The aim is to have valuations that reflect the actual value, ensuring that exits are at or slightly above NAV. This year, exits have been at NAV or a 5-10% premium, which is positive given the current 25% discount to NAV in the market.

Q: Federica, do you plan to sell more of Vishal, and if so, when? A: Federica Cazzaniga, Senior Portfolio Manager: The stock has performed well, up approximately 35% year-to-date. A block sale was executed in June 2025, with a 150-day lockup expiring soon. Depending on stock performance, more realizations may occur, potentially driving distributions into 2026.

Q: What distributions do you expect for next year, and can you discuss the pipeline of new investments? A: Federica Cazzaniga, Senior Portfolio Manager: We expect to revert to a 20% NAV run rate by the end of 2025, approximately EUR200 million, with similar expectations for 2026. The pipeline for new investments is anticipated to normalize, with 10-15% of NAV in new investments, aligning with historical averages.

Q: Considering macroeconomic challenges, what kind of NAV return per annum should investors expect? A: Cyrill Wipfli, Advisory Partner: Excluding this year's unusual FX impact, the last 6 and 10 years have seen a 10% net return. Private equity direct investments have achieved a 15% net return over the last decade, targeting double-digit returns in the long run.

Q: How has the macro environment impacted NAV, and what are the expectations moving forward? A: Cyrill Wipfli, Advisory Partner: The US dollar's weakness has been a significant headwind. However, excluding this year's FX impact, the portfolio has historically delivered strong returns. The focus remains on achieving double-digit returns over the long term.

For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.
Brazils state-owned Petrobras has announced that its Board of Directors approved its investment plan for the next five years, Business Plan 20262030 (BP 202630).

The investment budget was reduced by 2% to $109bn (581.2bn reais) as the state-owned oil and gas company adjusts to lower international oil prices.

Out of the total investment, $91bn will be directed to projects under implementation, including $10bn for projects needing budget confirmation and financing analysis.

The remaining $18bn budget is still under analysis with a lower degree of maturity.

Petrobras is a significant source of cash for the Brazilian federal budget and its spending is monitored by investors and the government.

This is the first time Petrobras has reduced its five-year budget since President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva took office in 2023, reported Bloomberg.

The 202630 business plan allocates $69.2bn for exploration and production projects within the Implementation Target Portfolio over the five years.

From this investment, 62% is designated for pre-salt fields, 24% for post-salt fields and 10% for exploration activities.

It also includes a 4% allocation for onshore projects, shallow-water assets, international assets, technology initiatives or decarbonisation projects.

Petrobras plans to implement eight new production systems by 2030, with an additional ten projects considered after 2030.

The company expects to drill 15 wells at Brazils Equatorial Margin, where it recently received a permit for its first well.

It forecasts peak oil production to reach 2.7 million barrels per day (mbbl/d) in 2028 and a peak total production of 3.4 million barrels of oil equivalent and gas per day in 2028 and 2029.

Petrobras also raised its short-term target to 2.5mbbl/d of oil for the next year from the earlier 2.4mbbl/d.

Additionally, the company has committed to a regular dividend payout of $45$50bn for the 202630 period, while maintaining its gross debt limit of $75bn.

"Petrobras five-year investment plan reduced by 2% to $109bn " was originally created and published by Offshore Technology, a GlobalData owned brand.




Brazils state-run oil giant Petrobras is preparing to slightly reduce its five-year investment plan for the first time under President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, reflecting pressure from weaker crude prices, sources told Reuters.

The companys new 20252029 strategic plan, set for release Thursday, will cut planned capital expenditures by about 2%from $111 billion to around $109 billionmarking the first decline since the Bolsonaro administrations 20212025 roadmap. Despite the modest reduction, Petrobras aims to preserve financial stability without increasing debt or altering its dividend policy.

The adjustment comes as Brent crude trades near $62 per barrel, down from an average of $70.85 earlier this year. Executives say Petrobras must do more with less, focusing on expanding production and refining capacity mainly through upgrades to existing platforms and refineries.

The company plans to replicate the success of its Almirante Tamandare floating production unit, which recently set a record of 270,000 barrels per daywell above its 225,000-bpd design capacity. Petrobras is also expected to renegotiate with suppliers and reassess select projects to rein in costs.

President Lula, who has encouraged Petrobras to invest aggressively in Brazils economic growth, faces a balancing act between maintaining energy expansion and adapting to lower global oil prices. For 2026, much of the companys roughly $19.6 billion in investments is already committed, limiting flexibility for further cuts.

The new plan signals a pragmatic shift for Petrobrasstill expanding production but tightening its belt in response to a softer oil market.

Oilprice Intelligence brings you the signals before they become front-page news. This is the same expert analysis read by veteran traders and political advisors. Get it free, twice a week, and you'll always know why the market is moving before everyone else.

You get the geopolitical intelligence, the hidden inventory data, and the market whispers that move billions - and we'll send you $389 in premium energy intelligence, on us, just for subscribing. Join 400,000+ readers today. Get access immediately by clicking here.
ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP) is one of the Best Very Cheap Stocks to Invest In. On November 24, Ryan Todd from Piper Sandler reiterated a Buy rating on ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP) with a $115 price target. Earlier, Devin McDermott from Morgan Stanley had also reiterated a Buy rating on the stock but lowered the price target from $122 to $117.

The ratings follow the companys fiscal Q3 2025 results, announced on November 6. During the quarter, revenue grew by 14.10% to $15.52 billion, surpassing estimates by $893.56 million. The EPS of $1.61 also topped estimates by $0.20. Management attributed growth to total company production of 2,399 thousand barrels of oil equivalent per day and Lower 48 production of 1,528 MBOED.

Notably, ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP) raised its full-year production guidance to 2.375 MMBOED, compared to prior guidance of 2.35 to 2.37 MMBOED. In addition, the full-year adjusted operating cost guidance was lowered to $10.6 billion versus prior guidance of $10.7 to $10.9 billion.

ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP) explores, produces, transports, and markets various energy resources such as crude oil, natural gas, natural gas liquids, and liquefied natural gas. It operates in several regions, including Alaska, the contiguous United States, Canada, Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, Asia Pacific, and other international locations.

While we acknowledge the potential of COP 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.

READ NEXT: 30 Stocks That Should Double in 3 Years and 11 Hidden AI Stocks to Buy Right Now.

Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
Piraeus Bank has completed its acquisition of all shares in Ethniki Holdings, the parent company of Ethniki Insurance, from CVC Capital Partners Fund VII and the National Bank of Greece.

The bank's acquisition of Ethniki Insurance, first disclosed in March this year, involved a total payment of 600m in cash.

Ethniki Insurance operates in Greece, providing services to 1.8 million active customers and 850m of gross written premiums (GWP) in 2024.

The companys share in the national insurance market is 14.6%, including 18.3% in life insurance and 11.3% in non-life insurance.

The insurer reported total assets of 4.1bn and shareholders equity of 400m as of 2024.

Pre-tax profit for 2024 was 14.8m, while unaudited results for the first ten months of 2025 showed pre-tax profit above 30m.

Ethniki Insurance CEO Dimitris Mazarakis said: The acquisition by Piraeus Bank marks an exciting new era for Ethniki Insurance. By joining forces with a leading financial group, we are unlocking new opportunities for growth and the ability to create even greater value for all our stakeholders.

Together, we are building a strong, reliable and innovative ecosystem that will further reinforce Ethniki Insurances role as a vital and trusted partner for our customers and generate long-term value for our shareholder.

The transaction is expected to result in a total capital ratio for Piraeus Financial Holdings of roughly 19% by the end of 2025, supporting a Pillar 2 Guidance buffer estimated at 300 basis points.

This integration is designed to broaden the groups revenue sources and extend its range of banking, protection and investment products.

Piraeus Group CEO Christos Megalou commented: The acquisition of Ethniki Insurance is a defining moment for Piraeus Group and underscores our commitment to revenue diversification and strategic growth.

By joining forces with Ethniki Insurance, we are broadening our capabilities across protection and investment solutions and unlocking new opportunities to deliver value to our customers and shareholders.

"Piraeus Bank concludes $654m acquisition of Ethniki Insurance " was originally created and published by Life Insurance International, a GlobalData owned brand.




Bolivias hydrocarbons sector began the 21st century from a position of strength. Major discoveries, steady foreign investment, and robust exports underpinned national development. However, the 2006 nationalization fundamentally changed sector dynamics. While the state captured a larger share of revenues, the policy environment gradually discouraged upstream investment. Exploration waned, reserves declined, and production began to fall just as regional markets became more competitive. Bolivia still has meaningful geological potential, but capital and capabilities must return if that potential is to materialize.

Bolivias contemporary export picture is starkly different from what it was even a decade ago. Brazil is now effectively Bolivias only significant market for natural gas. Although a long-term gas supply contract with Brazil expired in 2019, Bolivia continues to export under shorter-term arrangements, leveraging existing pipeline infrastructure and long-standing commercial ties. Brazils fundamentals remain favorable: industrial gas demand continues to expand, thermal generation remains important for grid stability, and the liberalization of the Brazilian gas market is encouraging new entrants who increasingly value pipeline gas as a flexible complement to liquefied natural gas.

However, Brazils appetite for Bolivian gas is tempered by concerns about supply reliability. Declining Bolivian production has resulted in delivery shortfalls, forcing Brazilian buyers to diversify. This creates an opportunity for competitors, and Argentina is the most prominent among them.

Argentina, once Bolivias second major export destination, no longer represents a real market. The ramp-up of Vaca Muerta shale production, combined with investments in transport infrastructure, has allowed Argentina to sharply reduce imports from Bolivia. In fact, Argentina is now positioning itself as a future exporter to Brazil, particularly during high-demand seasons. This development has strategic consequences: Bolivia now faces a region where it must compete, rather than one where geography alone guaranteed its relevance.

For Bolivia to secure and expand its remaining export foothold in Brazil, the country must present itself as a dependable, long-term supplier supported by clear policy direction and credible investment plans.

YPFB will play a decisive role in shaping this trajectory. The state company remains central to Bolivias hydrocarbons ecosystem, but to catalyze a meaningful sector revival it must operate more commercially, streamline decision-making, and partner more effectively with international oil companies and private firms. YPFBs future relevance depends on facilitating new exploration rather than attempting to manage all upstream activities internally. Joint ventures, transparent contracting frameworks, and more agile project execution will be essential.
About 45 minutes west of downtown Chicago lies a rather unassuming, glass-encased data center that some of the worlds largest markets depend on. By one 2018 estimate, at least $25 quadrillion of notional trade volume passes through the facility every day.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The Aurora, Illinois, complex has served as the primary hub of digital operations for the worlds largest futures exchange operator CME Group Inc. for nearly two decades. The 450,000-square-foot facility is famous among high-frequency traders and Wall Street firms, whove long jostled for position around the site to gain a leg up on competitors. At one point, DRW Holdings mounted an antenna on a utility pole near the complex to cut down on the latency. Rival Jump Trading bought property across the street for its own antenna. Scientel erected a tower, too.

Traders want to be close to the data center to reduce latency, minimizing the distance data must travel in order to shave microseconds off their trades. As a former executive of the data centers operator once put it: If you read the book , you can get a real quick lesson on whats going on.

The CyrusOne data center in Aurora, Illinois on Nov 28.Photographer: Jim Vondruska/Bloomberg

On Friday, the data center  located in the Chicago suburb probably best known for serving as the setting of the comedy film  became infamous to all who trade across equities, foreign exchange, bonds and commodities markets globally. A malfunction in the cooling system at the complex took down virtually all CME futures and options trading platforms, wreaking havoc for traders around the world. The operator of the data center, CyrusOne, said that its teams were working around the clock to respond to the cooling system issue but didnt respond to further questions.

This critical piece of infrastructure to global markets dates back to 2009, when CME started building the facility to host its electronic trading infrastructure, essentially serving as the backbone for CMEs futures and options trading platform Globex.

In 2016, CME decided it wanted to shift away from owning infrastructure and sold the site to Dallas-based CyrusOne. As part of the deal, CME agreed to rent space from CyrusOne for 15 years so it could continue to house the computers at the site that keep its markets running, essentially outsourcing its day-to-day operations.

CyrusOne knew what it was getting into. Gary Wojtaszek, the companys chief executive officer at the time, described the data center to analysts as ground zero for high-speed trading and the epicenter for all the futures trading. In laying out the business case for a new tower that the company was building there in 2018 to boost connectivity, he emphasized that speed is of the essence there.
The digital services tax has become increasingly important to the Exchequer amid the growth of big tech companies such as Meta and Google - Stephen Lock / i-Images

Rachel Reeves has resisted pressure from Donald Trump to drop a tax on US technology companies, with the levy poised to raise billions for the Treasury.

A long-awaited review of the digital services tax (DST)  a 2pc charge on big tech companies revenues in Britain  said it would continue to operate in the absence of a global tax agreement.

It comes despite the White House threatening retaliation against countries employing DSTs, which it claims unfairly target American companies.

Mr Trump has said that American companies are being treated as a piggy bank and warned that countries imposing DSTs face substantial tariffs. Show respect to America and our amazing tech companies or consider the consequences, he wrote in August.

The DST has become increasingly important to the Exchequer amid the growth of big tech companies such as Meta and Google.

It applies to the UK revenues of large search engines, online marketplaces and social networks. In practice, it largely targets US companies that dominate the internet.

Official forecasts said it could raise 1.4bn a year by 2030, up from 380m when first introduced four years ago.

Unnecessary risks to trade

Mr Trump has threatened tariffs on countries that impose DSTs, although the UK has yet to face any consequences.

The Treasury was forced to review the DST five years after introducing it, but the study published alongside the Budget said it would continue until a global tax agreement is reached.

It said it ensures digital businesses make a contribution that reflects their economic activities in the UK.

The DST was introduced as a temporary measure amid international negotiations on a global tax agreement that would charge companies based on where they did business. However, the Trump administration has opposed these reforms.

Matthew Sinclair, of the Computer & Communications Industry Association, a lobby group, said: It is disappointing that the Government has not taken the opportunity presented by this review to look again seriously at the arbitrary and distortionary Digital Services Tax.

With longstanding concerns in the US about taxes that single out multinationals headquartered there, this tax will continue to create unnecessary risks to trade and cooperation between two countries that otherwise have many interests in common as the largest global exporters of digital services.

The Treasurys review found that tech companies had passed on the costs of the DST to customers, such as advertisers and shoppers, but that this had not affected the growth of the digital economy. It said no avoidance or fraud had been found.
Reliance Industries, in partnership with Brookfield Asset Management and Digital Realty Trust, has announced plans to invest $11bn by 2030 to develop an AI-focused data centre campus in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India.

Digital Connexion, the JV formed by the three companies, confirmed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Andhra Pradesh Economic Development Board for this project, reported Bloomberg.

The campus will cover 400 acres (1.6187km) and is expected to have a capacity of one gigawatt (1GW).

Other technology companies have recently announced similar investments in India.

In October 2025, Google stated its intention to spend approximately $15bn over five years on an AI infrastructure hub, also in Visakhapatnam.

Meanwhile, Amazon has outlined plans to invest $12.7bn towards cloud infrastructure in India by the end of this decade, while OpenAI is exploring the development of a 1GW data centre in the South Asian country.

Also in October 2025, Reliance Industries, through Reliance Intelligence, and Google have announced a strategic partnership to promote the adoption of AI across India.

The collaboration will combine Reliance Industries scale and ecosystem with Googles AI technology to increase AI accessibility and support the development of Indias digital infrastructure.

Reliance Industries is partnering with Google Cloud to provide broader access to the latters AI hardware accelerators, including Tensor Processing Units (TPUs), as part of its plan to develop large-scale, clean energy-powered computing infrastructure.

The collaboration also designates Reliance Intelligence as a strategic partner to support the adoption of Gemini Enterprise by Indian organisations.

In a separate announcement, Tata Consultancy Services reported it will work with private equity firm TPG to establish a JV named HyperVault AI Data Centre, with a combined equity investment of Rs180bn ($2.03bn).

The capital will be committed in stages over several years, and the companies are seeking to raise an additional $4.5bn to $5bn through debt financing.

TCS did not provide further information regarding the number or locations of the new data centres.

"Reliance plans $11bn AI data centre in Visakhapatnam, India" was originally created and published by Verdict, a GlobalData owned brand.




Cheng Xin / Getty Images Robinhood's bet on prediction markets is paying off as it works to be a one-stop shop for trading in stocks, crypto, and events contracts, among other services

Key Takeaways

The retail brokerage is launching a new derivatives exchange in a bid to expand its prediction markets offerings.

Robinhood's stock has more than tripled year-to-date, making it one of the top gainers in the S&P 500.

Robinhood's latest venture raises the prediction-markets stakes.

The U.S. brokerage made popular by offering slices of stocks to retail investors is launching a futures and derivatives exchange in a bid to expand its prediction markets business. Robinhood (HOOD) announced Tuesday that the exchange will be managed by a joint venture with market maker Susquehanna International Group.

Its shares were up 10% as of Wednesday afternoon, solidifying Robinhood's position among the top gainers within the benchmark S&P 500.

WHY THIS MATTERS TO YOU

Robinhood built its business on catering to individual investors, starting with fractional shares of stocks and, more recently, offering banking and mortgage services to some of its more active users. As its business grows, the brokerage appears to be stepping into position to woo bigger customers.

Robinhood aims to be a one-stop shop for trading in stocks, crypto, and events contracts as well as banking and mortgage services. While it faces fierce competition in rivals like Polymarket, which yesterday announced receiving a regulatory nod to resume U.S. operations, Robinhood could also attract partners that want to get into the events-markets action but don't have the infrastructure to do so.

Robinhood's new venture comes with an acquisitiona 90% stake in MIAXdx, a CFTC-licensed derivatives clearing house; the deal is expected to close in the first quarter of next year. Miami International Holdings (MIAX) will retain the remaining shares. The company said its new exchange would serve its derivatives business and other futures commission merchant platforms.

A Robinhood spokesperson said its derivatives business "plans to continue to partner with multiple DCM/DCO partners," referencing the entities where derivatives contracts are executed and settled. "There will be no changes in the short term" for that business's customers, the spokesperson said. Robinhood offers some of its event contracts through Kalshi, another dominant player in predictions markets.

"Prediction markets are really on fire," Robinhood CEO Vlad Tenev said during the company's third-quarter earnings call earlier this month, according to a transcript provided by AlphaSense. Robinhood has doubled volume in that business every quarter since it launched roughly a year ago, according to the company, reaching 2.3 billion contracts in the third quarter.



Read the original article on Investopedia
Free cash flow decreased by 92 million compared to the same quarter last year, mainly due to lower earnings, less favorable working capital development, and higher investments.

Q3 sales and earnings were negatively affected by a sales decrease in the UK, where large flat roof projects were canceled or postponed.

Rockwool AS ( RKWBF ) is optimistic about long-term demand for its products, driven by energy efficiency agendas in Europe and expansion in the United States.

The US market is back to growth levels, with capacity available in Canadian factories to support US demand.

Revenue in the first nine months increased by 1% in local currencies, with acquisitions contributing an additional 2% increase.

Full Year Revenue Outlook: Expected to be at the same level as last year in local currencies.

Investment Activities: Major investments in electrification of production lines in the Netherlands and France, capacity expansion in Romania, and a large factory project in the United States.

Story continues

Q & A Highlights

Q: Can you elaborate on the current state of your North American business, particularly the differences between the US and Canadian markets? A: The US market is experiencing growth, while Canada is facing a downturn. We have capacity in our Canadian factories that can be utilized in the US market. This flexibility allows us to compensate for the Canadian slowdown. We anticipate that the US growth will help balance the overall North American performance in the short term. - Jes Hansen, CEO

Q: What is causing the reduced efficiency in your factories, and is this a temporary issue? A: The reduced efficiency is temporary, primarily due to ongoing projects and maintenance that have been brought forward. Some factories have lower capacity utilization, affecting absorption rates. These are project-specific issues, and we expect efficiency to normalize as projects are completed. - Jes Hansen, CEO

Q: Regarding your margin guidance for Q4, does the expected decline indicate worsening market conditions? A: The guidance reflects a realistic outlook, considering one-off expenses and continued challenges in Canada and Russia. The market dynamics remain similar to Q3, and the margin decline is not indicative of worsening conditions but rather a reflection of these factors. - Kim Andersen, CFO

Q: With the ongoing CapEx projects, are you considering delaying or reducing investments due to market uncertainties? A: We continuously monitor our CapEx plans, but we remain committed to our investment programs, especially in regions with strong demand like Southern Europe and North America. We believe in the long-term demand for our products and plan to maintain a high level of investment. - Jes Hansen, CEO

Q: Can you provide insights into the impact of the Swiss factory incident and your ability to meet demand in that market? A: We can supply approximately 50% of the Swiss market demand from other factories. The incident was due to a mechanical error, and we are working to resume full operations early next year. The financial impact is included in our Q4 guidance. - Jes Hansen, CEO

For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.
Ford Motor Co (NYSE:F) is turning a major page in its history. For the first time since the Eisenhower era, the company is moving its headquartersan effort designed not only to modernize its workspace but also to appeal to the tech and AI experts reshaping the auto industry.

A Headquarters Built for Ford's Future

Ford announced that the new Ford World Headquarters in Dearborn, Michigan, spans 2.1 million square feet, doubling the size of the company's longtime home known as "The Glass House." The move is just three miles away, but Ford leaders say the change reflects a much bigger shift in how the company wants to operate and who it hopes to attract.

Don't Miss:

The AI Marketing Platform Backed by Insiders from Google, Meta, and Amazon  Invest at $0.85/Share

An EA Co-Founder Shapes This VC Backed MarketplaceNow You Can Invest in Gaming's Next Big Platform

"Ford wants a new headquarters building that reflects who they think they are and who they want to be going forward," University of Michigan business professor Erik Gordon told the Associated Press. "They dont want to viewed as the car company from yesterday. They want to be viewed as a car company for tomorrow."

Gordon added that Ford needs to attract and compete for new kinds of employees, like software engineers and AI specialists, and this new building will set the mood for them.

Inside the Crown Jewel': A Showroom Built for Decision-Making

One of the standout features of the new HQ is a dramatic vehicle showroom. "Some of us joke that it feels like the James Bond villains lair," Jennifer Kolstad, Ford Land's global design and brand director, told AP. The space includes floor turntables, massive LED displays, and adaptable lighting designed to mimic natural conditions anywhere in the world.

According to Kolstad, the showroom isn't just for display. It plays a central role in product development, giving executives and design teams a shared place to evaluate and make decisions on future vehicles.

Trending: From Chipotle to Red Bull, Top Brands Are Already Building With Modern Mill's Tree-Free Wood Alternative  Here's How You Can Invest Too

Six Design Studios and Full-Scale Prototyping Labs

The building brings together design and engineering teams that were previously spread out. Ford says that the six identical studiosorganized around customer themes like Build, Thrill, and Adventureare fully equipped for clay modeling, milling, and high-tech prototyping. Large freight elevators and thick concrete floors allow employees to move full-size vehicles between work areas.
BARCELONA, Spain, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Smart City Expo Doha closed on November 26 after two days of intense discussions on how technology can transform cities in the Middle East into sustainable and livable environments. The leading event on the urban future in the MENA region is now preparing for its fifth edition, scheduled for April 2829, 2026.

Next Smart City Doha will be held from April 28 to 29, 2026.

The 4th Smart City Expo Doha, organised by Fira de Barcelona and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) of Qatar, focused on the impact of AI in fields such as mobility, design, and urban management. Under the slogan "Beyond connectivity: a digital solutions pathway to a smarter, thriving future", the event brought together over 30 international experts and featured four standout keynotes: Kent Larson (MIT) on tech-driven urban design, Jesus Serrano on AI innovation, H.E. Reem Al Mansoori on Qatar's urban transformation strategy, and FIFA ambassador Ghanim Al-Muftah with an inspiring message on resilience and inclusion.

The celebration of this local edition of SCE highlights Qatar's leadership in smart and sustainable urban development across the MENA region. This prominent role is already evident through major national projects that translate the country's digital vision into reality. Lusail City, one of the most advanced smart city developments in the region, integrates real-time data systems, intelligent mobility solutions, and connected urban services that enhance quality of life and operational efficiency. Similarly, Msheireb Downtown Doha stands as the first fully built smart and sustainable city district in Qatar, combining digital innovation, energy efficiency, and human-centred urban design. Together, these living examples demonstrate how Qatar is shaping future-ready urban environments and progressing toward the ambitions outlined in the Qatar National Vision 2030 and the nation's Digital Agenda 2030.

This year, Smart City Expo Doha has been featured at MWC25 Doha. Organised by the GSMA in collaboration with MCIT, the first MWC event in the MENA (Middle East and Africa) region brought together over two days nearly 300 thought leaders and over 250 exhibitors and sponsors.

Smart City Expo in the world

Held annually in Barcelona, Smart City Expo World Congress is the world's leading event on smart cities. SCE Doha is one of its local editions organized outside Spain in 2025, including those in New York, Curitiba, Puebla, Santiago del Estero, Santiago de Chile, Kuala Lumpur, Cartagena de Indias, and Tomorrow.City in Shanghai.
Silver jumped to a record, surpassing a peak set during a historic squeeze in the London market in October.

Spot prices surged as much as 4.2% to about $55.66 an ounce. The white metal has been supported by rising hopes of a Federal Reserve interest-rate cut in December, inflows into bullion-backed exchange-traded funds and ongoing supply tightness.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Friday also saw erratic price moves and thin liquidity in the silver market, after a chaotic hours-long halt to trading in futures on the CMEs Comex Exchange. By early morning US-time, most trading operations were back.

Silvers new high comes just over a month after a severe supply squeeze in the dominant silver trading hub in London last month, which sent prices soaring above levels in Shanghai and New York. While the arrival of nearly 54 million troy ounces has eased that squeeze, the market still remains markedly tight with the cost of borrowing the metal over one month hovering above its normal level.

The flows into the London market have now put pressure on other hubs, including in China. Silver inventories in warehouses linked to the Shanghai Futures Exchange recently hit their lowest level since 2015, according to bourse data.

In the short term, a further price increase cannot be ruled out if registered silver inventories in China continue to decline, analysts at Commerzbank AG wrote in a note earlier Friday.

Traders are also monitoring any potential tariff on silver after the precious metal was added to the US Geological Survey list of critical minerals in November. While 75 million ounces have left the vaults of the Comex futures exchange in New York since early October, fears of a sudden premium for US silver have caused some traders to hesitate before shipping metal out of the country.

Silver has surged almost 90% this year, as investors pile into alternative assets in a wider retreat from government bonds and currencies, dubbed the dabasement trade. Optimism about the metals fundamental supply and demand balance have also supported prices  the market is set to see a fifth consecutive supply deficit this year. Unlike gold, a large share of silver demand is industrial, with applications in solar photovolaics and electronics.

Spot silver was higher at $ an ounce as of 4:52 p.m. in London. Spot gold rose to $ an ounce.

--With assistance from Sybilla Gross.
Sri Lanka's October shipments to the US and UK fell by 1.92% and 11.99% respectively, compared to the same period last year. These figures are based on data from the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF), the apex body of Sri Lankas apparel industry.

Exports to other markets outside of the EU dropped by 9.84% year-over-year.

In October 2025, exports to the EU rose by 12.53% compared to the same month in the previous year.

Overall, Sri Lankas apparel and made-up articles exports decreased by 0.05% in October 2025 versus October 2024.

From January to October 2025, total Sri Lanka apparel exports grew by 6.12% year-on-year.

During this period, exports to the EU increased by 14.05% compared with the same time last year.

Exports to the US rose by 1.37%, while those to the UK and other destinations grew by 0.98% and 8.31%, respectively, over the corresponding period in 2024.

JAAF said: Sri Lankas apparel sector continues to hold steady despite challenging global conditions. The strong growth in EU markets and the positive cumulative performance reflect the industrys resilience, ongoing investments in competitiveness, and our commitment to meeting the needs of international buyers. Sustained market diversification and consistent policy support will be essential as we work to build on this momentum in the months ahead.

In September 2025, the countrys apparel exports registered a year-on-year increase of 1.58%, reaching just over $403m.

Last month, JAAF urged the Sri Lankan government to delay removing the simplified value added tax (SVAT) system until effective VAT refund mechanisms are implemented, emphasising that a smooth transition is important for supporting exporters in the apparel sector.

"Sri Lanka October apparel exports fall as US, UK demand drops" was originally created and published by Just Style, a GlobalData owned brand.




Ferry company Stena Line and Associated British Ports (ABP) are set to begin construction on a new freight ferry terminal at the Port of Immingham on the east coast of England, marking a joint investment exceeding 200m ($264m).

The project aims to address rising demand in the unaccompanied freight market in the Humber region, with the new Immingham Eastern roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) terminal (IERRT) scheduled for development in Lincolnshire.

The terminal will offer access to the main Humber Estuary, which will enable faster sailing times and accommodate larger RoRo vessels.

ABPs four ports on the Humber collectively represent the UKs largest gateway for trade by volume.

Stena Line currently operates two daily ferry services between the Humber region and the Netherlands.

Stena Line CEO Niclas Martensson said: Stena Line has 20 routes across Northern Europe and the Mediterranean and Immingham port is a key part of that network.

This project highlights our ongoing commitment to the North East of England but will also be integral to the expansion of freight operations on our routes between the UK and Continental Europe to meet demand.

Employment opportunities are expected to arise from the project, with about 700 jobs anticipated during construction and roughly 200 roles in ongoing terminal operations following completion.

Backers of the project have indicated that the new terminal will support business for exporters and importers both locally and throughout the UK.

ABP CEO Henrik Pedersen said: Associated British Ports is committed to fulfilling our mission to Keep Britian Trading as the UKs largest and leading port operator.

The Immingham Eastern RoRo Terminal is the latest demonstration of this commitment. Im delighted that we continue to deepen our long-term partnership with Stena Line and strengthening choice and supply chain resilience for UK businesses trading with Europe.

In April this year, Stena Line introduced a concept design for its new RoRo vessel, the Stena Futuro, which is expected to cut energy consumption by at least 20%.

This initiative is part of the companys wider strategy to decarbonise its fleet and achieve a 30% reduction in CO emissions by 2030.

"Stena Line, ABP launch 200m freight terminal project at Port of Immingham" was originally created and published by Ship Technology, a GlobalData owned brand.




Portage, Michigan-based Stryker Corporation (SYK) offers innovative products and services in MedSurg, Neurotechnology, Orthopaedics, and Spine that help improve patient and healthcare outcomes. With a market cap of $143.4 billion, Stryker operates as one of the worlds leading medical technology companies.

Companies worth $10 billion or more are generally described as "large-cap stocks." Stryker fits this bill perfectly. Given that the company impacts over 150 million patients annually, its valuation above this mark is not surprising. The companys operations span nearly 75 countries in the Americas, Indo-Pacific, and EMEA and employ nearly 53,000 people.

More News from Barchart

Stryker touched its all-time high of $406.19 on Jan. 28 and is currently trading 8.3% below that peak. Meanwhile, the stock has dropped 5.6% over the past three months, significantly underperforming the Health Care Select Sector SPDR Funds (XLV) 15.6% surge during the same time frame.

www.barchart.com

Stryker has underperformed over the longer term as well. SYK stock prices have gained 3.4% on a YTD basis and dipped 4.5% over the past 52 weeks, compared to XLVs 15.2% surge in 2025 and 8.4% gains over the past year.

SKY stock has remained mostly below its 50-day moving average since early August and below its 200-day moving average since mid-September, underscoring its downturn.

www.barchart.com

Despite reporting better-than-expected results, Strykers stock prices dropped 3.5% in the trading session following the release of its Q3 results on Oct. 30. Driven by a 9.1% increase in volumes and a 40 bps increase in prices, the companys organic sales increased 9.5% compared to the year-ago quarter. Meanwhile, its overall net sales increased 10.3% year-over-year to $6.1 billion, exceeding the Streets expectations by 24 bps. Meanwhile, its adjusted EPS surged 11.1% year-over-year to $3.19, surpassing the consensus estimates by 1.6%. Following the initial dip, SYK stock maintained a positive momentum for two subsequent trading sessions.

Meanwhile, Stryker has lagged behind its peer Boston Scientific Corporations (BSX) 13% gains on a YTD basis and 11.9% returns over the past year.
Kofola CeskoSlovensko is forecasting a full in annual sales, with the Czech drinks business pointing to the impact of a sugar tax in Slovakia.

The soft drinks producer expects to record a 4% decline in revenues this year, versus its previous forecast of growth of 1.5%.

Kofola CeskoSlovensko's new guidance came after it reported a 7.5% fall in third-quarter revenues.

The business said "lower consumption" in the quarter had been "significantly influenced" by Slovakia's sugar tax on sweetened drinks and muted consumer sentiment in Czechia.

Kofola CeskoSlovensko also cut its forecast for 2025 EBITDA, which the company now sees reaching Kc1.75bn ($83.8m). It had previously projected this metric to sit at Kc1.9bn.

CFO Martin Pisklak said: We managed to offset the negative revenue trend in the CzechoSlovakia region through cost savings. EBITDA for the third quarter is therefore comparable with the results for the same period in 2024.

At the turn of August and September, the revenue trend began to improve, which is why we published an outlook for the full-year 2025 result at Kc1.9bn. However, autumn and November revenues show that the negative trend unfortunately continues. We therefore need to revise the overall outlook to Kc1.75 bn.

Kofola's third-quarter revenues declined 7.5% to Kc3.1bn. EBITDA in the period fell 1.1% to Kc727m.

The group saw declines across its business segments in its third quarter. Its 'CzechoSlovakia' business segment, the largest portion of its business, saw revenues decline 10% to Kc4.7bn. EBITDA within this segment also dropped 12.5% to Kc823m.

Revenues in its beer and ciders segment were down 10.3% in the quarter, mainly driven by "lower demand in central and eastern European countries", Kofola said.

Profit for the period in its third quarter still grew 5.4% to Kc391m. However in its first nine months of 2025, total profits dropped 18.9% to Kc528m.

Kofola's revenue dipped 3.6% in the nine-month period to Kc8.2bn. EBITDA dropped 11.8% at Kc1.4bn.

"Sugar tax sours Kofola CeskoSlovensko revenue forecast" was originally created and published by Just Drinks, a GlobalData owned brand.




A fierce war of words has erupted between Dutch chipmaker Nexperia and its Chinese owner, Wingtech Technology, after China and the European Union signalled that their dispute should be resolved at the corporate level.

Wingtech accused Nexperia's head office of being insincere after the Dutch head office publicly released a letter that said the chipmaker's Chinese unit had been unresponsive to requests for talks.

The heightened tensions underscore the complexity in resolving the two sides' dispute over the control of Nexperia, which threatens to disrupt global car supply chains.

Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team.

It has also raised speculation that operations of Nexperia could be split into two: one centred at the Chinese unit's factory in Dongguan in southern Guangdong province, and the other at the chipmaker's head office in Nijmegen, the biggest city in Gelderland, the Netherlands' largest province.

Shanghai-listed Wingtech demanded the restoration "of its lawful control and shareholder rights" in Nexperia, according to a statement released in both Chinese and English on Friday.

Regaining control of Nexperia marks "the foundation and prerequisite for resolving the current crisis in the global semiconductor supply chain," Wingtech said. It also alleged that Nexperia's head office was attempting to create a "de-China-ised" supply chain that would permanently strip Wingtech of its shareholder rights.

Bikes are seen parked next to Nexperia China's factory in Dongguan, southern Guangdong province, on November 7, 2025. Photo: Reuters alt=Bikes are seen parked next to Nexperia China's factory in Dongguan, southern Guangdong province, on November 7, 2025. Photo: Reuters>

Nexperia's Dutch head office maintained that it had "made repeated and multiple attempts" to talk to the firm's China unit "via calls, emails and proposed meetings", but "did not receive any meaningful response".

"We urge you to respond to Nexperia's outreach and engage constructively and with a view to restore the supply chain, as this is in the interest of all parties involved, including our customers," the head office said in its public letter to the Dongguan-based unit.

In response, Nexperia China rejected the head office's accusation in a statement on Friday. The unit reiterated that the problem was Dutch headquarters' suspension of wafer supplies to the Dongguan plant and its denial of Nexperia China employees' access to email and other information technology systems.
Jon McNeill, VC investor, was a Tesla executive for nearly 3 years and now sits on GM's board.

He told Business Insider that automakers conduct teardowns of competitors' vehicles all the time.

McNeill said Tesla was a "learning sponge" that took valuable lessons from Chinese EVs.

Automakers are constantly learning from their competitors in China. Tesla, one of the leading EV companies, is no exception.

Jon McNeill, the former president of Tesla who now sits on General Motors' board, told Business Insider that Tesla has torn down Chinese EVs and that the lessons learned can be seen in some of Tesla's most popular models.

"Tesla is a learning sponge," McNeill, who was at the EV company between 2015 and 2018, said.

During his tenure, Model 3 was in its infamous "production hell," and Tesla had just teased the first image of the Model Y.

The former Tesla executive said one lesson learned from Chinese EVs was the reuse of parts  using some of the same guts of one model for another  and that can be seen "across the 3 and the Y."

Tesla CEO Elon Musk said in a 2019 earnings call that the Model Y shared about three-quarters of its parts with the Model 3, allowing for easier production ramp-up.

A spokesperson for Tesla did not return a request for comment.

Another level of reusing

McNeill didn't name which Chinese EVs Tesla tore down during his tenure, but said he's recently seen BYD, the leading EV maker in China, take the technique of reusing parts to another level at a teardown with GM.

"The Chinese engineers are really disciplined about reusing parts underneath the hood that the customer can't see, and they save a lot of money that way," he said.

It's not a unique concept to Chinese automakers; the automotive industry has long relied on using the same parts from one model of car for another in an automaker's lineup, including components such as the steering wheel or the turn-signal stalk.

BYD and other Chinese automakers, however, are distinctive in the degree to which they reuse parts down to the ancillary components of a vehicle, from the battery packs to the heat pumps and motors inside the car seats, McNeill said.

"If you tear down all the BYDs  same windshield wiper motor across all of them; same heat pump across all of them; same conduit across all of them," he said. "In other words, there's not a team that's designing a particular model, and they're off on their own."

McNeill added that the technique was "super smart because a windshield wiper motor really doesn't change or add to the experience."
Texas has made some strong developments in the cold chain supply chanel. Mexico continues to be the top trading partner with the U.S. with $226.4 billion worth of trade so far for the year, narrowly surpassing Canda. Across the state, cold-storage developers, produce importers, 3PLs, and tech-forward warehouse operators are pouring money into temperature-controlled infrastructure, turning Texas into one of the most influential cold-chain hubs in North America.

And its happening fast enough that the rest of the industry is starting to take notice.

New Jersey and California have been consistent powerhouses in cold chain. With proximity to pharmaceutical manufacturers and busy ports, but the newest competitor could be a sleeper.

Cold chain rewards location, and Texas has it in spades. The state sits on top of some of the most valuable freight arteries in the country: north-south interstates connecting to the Midwest, east-west lanes feeding the coasts, two of the busiest air cargo gateways in DFW and Houston, and a Gulf Coast port system thats expanding at a breakneck pace.

Layer in the proximity to Mexico, where produce, proteins, and pharmaceuticals funnel across the border daily, and Texas becomes the natural front door for perishable goods moving into the U.S. interior. Laredo, Pharr, and McAllen are transforming from simple crossing points into sophisticated cold-chain ecosystems with inspection stations, ripening rooms, and temperature-controlled cross-docks designed to keep product moving.

Its the kind of environment shippers dream about: high velocity, high connectivity, and plenty of room to scale.

What sets Texas apart isnt the size of the expansion; its the sophistication of it.

New facilities arent just sealed boxes keeping lettuce from wilting. Theyre packed with automation, dense sensor networks, and visibility systems that monitor every corner of the warehouse in real time. Operators are deploying AI-driven pallet tracking, forklift-vision systems that verify inventory movements automatically, and refrigeration setups engineered to survive blistering summers without temperature drift.

Earlier this year RealCold opened a 14 million cubic foot temperature-controlled warehouse near Austin. Tom Musgrave, Chief Operating Officer of RealCold, lauded the project stating This is one of flagship facilities and we believe that what weve built is an opportunity to showcase our capabilities and extend our brand. One of the unique elements of the design was our focus on flexibility to ensure that we can serve a diverse array of customer needs and engineer solutions that are optimized for their businesses using our infrastructure.
Japans Toyota Motor Corporation reported a 3% year-on-year rise in global sales to 1,003,631 vehicles in October 2025, including its Daihatsu and Hino subsidiaries, with sales in Japan and overseas both rising by 3% to 200,045 and 803,586 units respectively.

In the first ten months of 2025, Toyota Groups sales increased by 5.5% to 9,362,057 units, with sales in Japan rising by over 13% to 1,745,403 units, reflecting a strong first-half rebound following last years production stoppages at Daihatsu, while overseas sales increased by 3.8% to 7,616,654 units. Toyota remains the worlds largest vehicle manufacturing group, ahead of Germanys Volkswagen Group.

Sales of Toyota- and Lexus-branded vehicles increased by 4.5% to 8,705,094 units year-to-date, with sales in Japan rising by 4.5% to 1,265,631 units and overseas sales also up by 4.5% to 7,439,463 units. Sales in North America rose by 7.7% to 2,416,597 units, while deliveries in Latin America (excluding Mexico) were up by just 0.8% to 403,629 units. In Asia, excluding Japan, sales rose by 3.4% to 2,670,721 units, driven by strong growth in China, India, Vietnam and Pakistan, while in Europe volumes increased by 2.3% to 993,070 units.

Toyota and Lexus reported a 12.5% rise in global sales of electrified vehicles to 4,131,758 units in the first ten months of the year, accounting for 47% of total sales. Sales of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) rose by over 30% to 154,512 units, almost all of which were sold overseas, while global sales of hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) rose by 9.5% to 3,675,577 units.

Daihatsus global sales increased by 29% to 564,562 units year-to-date, with sales in Japan rebounding by 54% to 451,309 units following last years production stoppages, while overseas sales fell by 21% to 113,253 units  mainly reflecting weak demand in Indonesia.

The groups commercial vehicle unit, Hino Motors, reported a 10% decline in global sales to 92,401 units, with sales in Japan falling by almost 18% to 28,463 units, while overseas sales declined by 6.5% to 63,938 units.

"Toyotas global sales rise by 3% in October" was originally created and published by Just Auto, a GlobalData owned brand.




Tariffs have changed the economic landscape for the entire U.S. automotive industry.

Japanese automakers were particularly affected by the 27.5% duties imposed on their exports to the United States.

Top auto importers to U.S. in 2024

Mexico : 22.8%

Japan : 18.6%

South Korea : 17.3%

Canada : 12.9%

Germany: 11.7%

According to Worlds Top Exports count, nearly 20% of the money U.S. consumers spent on auto imports went to Japanese car companies. The only country with a higher percentage was Mexico.

However, many of the vehicles Japanese automakers sell in the U.S. are actually manufactured here.

Last year, Japanese auto manufacturers produced 3.28 million vehicles in the U.S.

Honda, Subaru, Nissan, Mazda, and Toyota combined employed nearly 75,000 manufacturing workers in the U.S. last year, according to the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association.

Japan was able to renegotiate its tariff burden in July to 15%, but the lower rate is retroactive only until September 16.

Toyota sold over 2.3 million vehicles in the U.S. in 2024, a 3.7% year-over-year increase.

Of the 2.4 million vehicles Toyota sold worldwide in the first quarter of FY 2026, nearly 800,000 of those sales came from North America, making it Toyotas most important region by far.

On Thursday, the Japanese auto giant gave an update on its October sales that showed its strongest region is getting even stronger.

North America is Toyota's most important sales region.Bloomberg/Getty Images

Toyota reports fifth straight month of increased U.S. output

Toyota is riding a wave of U.S. demand for hybrid electric vehicles to a streak of increased sales and production, according to its October sales figures.

Toyota's global output increased 4% year-over-year to 926,987 cars, as worldwide sales rose 2% to 922,087 vehicles. It is the tenth consecutive monthly sales gain for the automaker.

Related: Toyota makes a major bet on US manufacturing

Toyota was able to achieve this despite weaker sales in Japan and China, thanks to a 26% increase in U.S. production in October. This is the fifth consecutive double-digit sales increase in the U.S. for the company.

Toyota sold 207,910 vehicles in the U.S. in October.

Meanwhile, Japan's output rose 7%, even though sales declined 4%, and China's production dropped 6%, as sales fell 7%.

Toyota sold 8.7 million vehicles globally through the first 10 months of the year, with hybrids making up 42% of those sales, battery electric vehicles making up 2%, and internal combustion engine vehicles making up the rest.

Toyota sold 185,748 Toyota and Lexus vehicles in the U.S. in September, a 14.2% year-over-year increase in volume, according to a press release. For the third quarter, Toyota North America reported sales of 629,137 vehicles, a 16% increase.
The Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing campus in Hsinchu, Taiwan.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. sued a former executive who left to work for Intel Corp., saying there is a high likelihood that he leaked trade secrets from the worlds most advanced chipmaker to his new employer.

TSMC said it filed the lawsuit against Lo Wei-jen, a former senior vice president, on Tuesday at the Intellectual Property and Commercial Court in Taiwan. It said the legal action was based on a non-compete agreement that Lo had signed during his employment. A spokesperson for the court confirmed it received a lawsuit from TSMC on Tuesday.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The unusual action from TSMC underscores the growing sensitivities around cutting-edge chip technology, which anchors not just the companys leading global position but also Taiwans own geopolitical dynamic. The company regularly loses employees to competitors and other firms in the supply chain  but rarely of Los standing and seniority.

There is a high probability that Lo uses, leaks, discloses, delivers, or transfers TSMCs trade secrets and confidential information to Intel, thus making legal actions (including claiming damages for breach of contract) necessary, TSMC said in a statement.

Intel rejected the allegations. Based on everything we know, we have no reason to believe there is any merit to the allegations involving Mr. Lo, an Intel spokesperson said Wednesday in a statement. Intel maintains rigorous policies and controls that strictly prohibit the use or transfer of any third-part confidential information or intellectual property.

Lo, 75, was at one point in charge of research and technology development at TSMC and played a key role in facilitating the mass production of cutting-edge chips, including those used to make AI accelerators.

After a tenure spanning more than two decades, Lo left TSMC in July. The company said Lo had failed to disclose in his exit interview that he was planning to work for Intel, telling company lawyers he would join an academic institution.

Before he joined TSMC in 2004, Lo was employed at Intel focusing on advanced technology development, including running a chip factory in Santa Clara, California. Intel said Wednesday that Lo worked for 18 years as part of the process technology team at the company.

Talent moving between companies is a healthy part of the industry, the Intel spokesperson said in the statement, and the company welcomes Lo back.
Two years ago, a pair of 22-year-old friends who met in high school in Michigan found themselves sitting inside Tsinghua Universitys brain lab in Beijing, staring down a multimillion-dollar offer from Elon Musk.

The two had just done something unusual for the moment: they built a small large-language model (LLM) trained not on massive internet data dumps, but on a tiny, carefully chosen set of high-quality conversations. And they taught it to improve itself using reinforcement learning (RL), a technique where a model learns the way a person or animal does: by making decisions, receiving feedback, and then refining behavior through rewards and penalties.

At the time, almost no one was doing this with language models. The only other group exploring RL for LLMs was DeepSeek, the Chinese OpenAI competitor that would later terrify Silicon Valley.

The two students, William Chen and Guan Wang, called their model OpenChat, and they open-sourced it on a whim.

To their shock, OpenChat blew up.

It got very famous, Chen told Fortune. Researchers at Berkeley and Stanford pulled the code, built on top of it, and began citing the work. In academic circles, it became one of the earliest examples of how a small model trained on good data, as opposed to more data, could punch above its weight.

Then it landed somewhere Chen never expected: Elon Musks inbox.

Musk sent an email through what, at the time, was his new company, xAI, which wanted to recruit the students in a multi-million dollar pay package, Chen says. It was the kind of offer young founders dreamed of.

They hesitated. Then, they turned it down.



We decided that large-language models have their limitations, Chen said. We want a new architecture that will overcome the structural limitation of [large-scale machine learning].

Instead of taking the deal, they left the comfortable momentum of OpenChat behind and pursued something far more ambitious: a brain-inspired reasoning system they believed could outperform current AI models.

That decision would lead, two years later, to Sapient Intelligence  and to a model that outperformed some of the worlds biggest AI systems on tests of abstract reasoning. They are confident their model is going to be the first to achieve AGI, or artificial general intelligence, the so-called holy grail in AI research where a machines intelligence can match or surpass that of a human in any cognitive task.

Between the two worlds of the arms race

Chens path to turning down Musk didnt begin in Beijing, but in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, and with a childhood obsession that drove his parents crazy.
With a market cap of $173.9 billion, Uber Technologies, Inc. (UBER) is a California-based technology company best known for its ride-hailing platform, which connects passengers with drivers through its mobile app. Beyond transportation, Uber operates Uber Eats for food delivery, a freight logistics division, and other mobility services such as shared bikes and scooters.

Companies valued at $10 billion or more are generally considered large-cap stocks, and Uber Technologies fits this criterion perfectly, exceeding the mark. Operating in dozens of countries, the company has become a major player in on-demand services and urban mobility, aiming to build a scalable platform for transportation and delivery worldwide.

More News from Barchart

However, shares of the company have dipped 16% from its 52-week high of $101.99 touched on Sept. 22. Over the past three months, shares of Uber Technologies have decreased 11.3%, trailing the S&P 500 Index ($SPX) 5.4% surge during the same period.

www.barchart.com

In the longer term, UBER stock has soared 42% on a YTD basis, outperforming SPXs 15.8% return. Moreover, shares of the company have returned 19.7% over the past 52 weeks, compared to SPXs 13.1% over the same time frame.

Despite a few fluctuations, UBER stock has been trading below its 50-day and 200-day moving averages this month, indicating a downtrend.

www.barchart.com

Shares of ride-sharing and on-demand delivery platform Uber slid 6.8% on Nov. 4, after the company posted mixed third-quarter results that featured a narrow miss on a key profitability metric. The company generated $13.47 billion in revenue, topping analyst expectations of $13.27 billion, while EPS came in at $3.11, far exceeding the Streets forecast of $0.69.

It continued to demonstrate strong operating momentum, with trips rising 22% year over year to 3.5 billion and gross bookings up 21% to $49.7 billion. Adjusted EBITDA reached $2.26 billion, up 33% from the prior year but slightly below consensus estimates of $2.27 billion, an outcome that appeared to dampen investor sentiment despite record profitability and robust performance across both mobility and delivery segments. The company added 28 million new monthly active platform users during the quarter, bringing the total to 189 million, while generating $1.1 billion in operating income and $2.2 billion in free cash flow.
The Financial Conduct Authority has admitted RegTech platform Eunice into its Regulatory Sandbox to trial an industry-designed framework for enhancing transparency across Britains digital asset markets.

The initiative brings together major exchanges, including Coinbase, Crypto.com, and Kraken, to develop standardized disclosure templates.

Eunices sandbox participation is the latest chapter in Britains accelerating push toward comprehensive crypto regulation, building on the FCAs roadmap to publish final rules throughout 2026.

Source: FCA

The working group led by Eunice has created uniform disclosure standards to simplify compliance for firms while ensuring investors receive key risk information before transactions.

Industry Collaboration Shapes UKs Regulatory Future

The disclosure template project emerged directly from the FCAs Admissions and Disclosures Discussion Paper published in December 2024, which invited industry expertise to inform upcoming regulations.

Eunice will now experiment with these templates in the sandbox environment to achieve maximum transparency, with the findings expected to directly influence the FCAs final disclosure requirements for cryptoassets.

The platform specializes in helping financial institutions, regulators, and businesses work with cryptoassets, tokenized assets, and on-chain infrastructure.

Yi Luo, CEO and co-founder of Eunice, emphasized the importance of the collaboration.

The FCA Sandbox is where regulators and industry participants meet to build the foundations for a safer and smarter digital asset market, Luo stated.

Colin Payne, head of innovation at the FCA, also pointed out the regulators track record in supporting beneficial market innovations.

Our Regulatory Sandbox accepts applications year-round from all types of firms who are looking to test their innovative ideas, Payne explained.

We encourage any firm to apply who are looking to test a similar solution to help inform our regulatory approach to cryptoassets.

Broader Framework Addresses Market Conduct Standards

The disclosure initiative forms one component of Britains broader regulatory transformation, which has gained momentum following years of industry criticism over restrictive oversight.

The FCAs crypto roadmap outlines staged policy publications covering stablecoins, market abuse, trading platforms, intermediation, lending, and staking.

Consultation Paper CP25/25, launched in September, proposed applying traditional financial institution standards to crypto firms, including governance obligations, financial crime controls, and operational resilience measures.
By Helen Reid and James Davey

LONDON (Reuters) -British retailers have welcomed the government's decision to start charging customs duties on low-value e-commerce parcels but said a March 2029 timeline is too late and risks making the country an international outlier.

UK retailers have been squeezed by rapidly growing ultra-low-cost platforms like AliExpress, Shein, Temu, and more recently Amazon Haul, which send packages directly from factories in China to shoppers' doorsteps, benefiting from a customs waiver on parcels worth less than 135 pounds ($179).

"I will stop overseas online firms from undercutting our high street" by applying customs duty on parcels of any value, Reeves told parliament in her budget speech on Wednesday.

TIME FRAME IS 'SIMPLY TOO LONG'

But the finance ministry said the change would be made in March 2029 "at the latest", with a consultation on the policy to run until March next year.

Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium trade body, said the proposed time frame is "simply too long", citing government figures that 1.6 million parcels are taking advantage of the exemption every day, twice as many as last year.

"Businesses cannot afford any delay," she said.

The United States, the biggest market for Shein and Temu, has already ended its customs waiver, dubbed "de minimis", on parcels worth less than $800, scrapping it for imports from China and Hong Kong in May before removing it across the board in August.

The U.S. initially tried to remove the waiver in February with just 48 hours' notice, but was forced to row back after more than a million packages piled up at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport.

The 2029 timeline also puts Britain well behind the European Union, which two weeks ago brought forward a plan to scrap its equivalent customs waiver, on packages under 150 euros, to 2026 from 2028.

Last year South Africa began charging value added tax on low-value parcels, while Brazil introduced a 20% tax on international purchases of up to $50.

CLOSING THE GAP WITH HIGH STREET

Removing de minimis adds to costs for online retailers sending direct to consumers, denting their competitiveness compared to traditional retailers who pay duties on products imported in bulk.

"The gap between online and high street prices will shrink, potentially encouraging shoppers to return to UK retailers," said Andrew Thurston, customs duty senior manager at accountancy firm MHA.

Dan Finley, CEO of Debenhams Group, which owns online fast-fashion retailer Boohoo, said delaying implementation until 2029 "means lost revenue for the UK and continued unfairness in the market."
Britain could face emerging risks to natural gas supply in the 2030s as a freefall in domestic production makes it increasingly dependent on imports, the National Energy System Operator (NESO) has warned in a new report.

NESOs first annual Gas Security of Supply Assessment focused on winters between 2030 and 2036 under its obligation to assess gas supply security in its new responsibility as Great Britains Gas System Planner.

The assessment found that under seasonal normal weather conditions, gas supply would be sufficient to meet demand.

Supply currently comes from the UK Continental Shelf and from pipeline imports from Norway, LNG imports and pipeline imports from Europe, gas storage, and biomethane.

The relative contribution of these sources will evolve over time, primarily driven by the long-term natural decline of UKCS production  a trend evident since the early 2000s, NESO said.

Normal conditions wouldnt threaten supply, but when testing against a range of 1-in-20-year peak demand scenarios for 2030/31 to 2035/36, the analysis identifies an emerging risk to GB gas supply security, the energy system operator said.

In scenarios where all gas supply and network infrastructure are operational (intact), this risk is evident only where decarbonisation is slowest  where peak gas demand is expected to remain close to, or even exceed, current expectations, NESO said.

However, in the unlikely event of the loss of the single largest piece of gas infrastructure, gas supply falls short of demand expectations for all pathways in 2030/31.

NESOs report pointed out that a combination of measures will likely be required to mitigate emerging security of supply risks, and these mitigation options include reducing peak day gas demand through decarbonization, maximizing peak day supply from existing infrastructure, and developing new gas supply infrastructure.

Oil and gas production in the UK North Sea has been falling since the 2000s and the UKs pledge to ban new projects and refusal to amend the punitive tax regime doesnt make it easier for operators to reverse the decline.

No new exploration wells have been drilled in 2025 and domestic oil and gas production has fallen by 40% in the last five years and is on course to halve again by 2030, industry body Offshore Energies UK (OEUK) said, commenting on the autumn budget that doesnt address calls for reforms of the Energy Profits Levy (EPL), the so-called windfall tax.
Known for its rainforest and white sand beaches, as well as its diversity of bird life, Costa Rica has, in recent years, seen both an increase in tourist numbers and several airline route expansions to the Caribbean island nation.

A recent trends report from travel booking system Skyscanner identified the Costa Rican city of Limon on the Caribbean Coast as the year's most popular destination, while airlines such as JetBlue and American Airlines both recently launched new routes to the country from additional U.S. cities.

With the capital of San Jose just a two-and-a-half-hour flight from Miami, the United States continues to be Costa Rica's largest source of tourism year after year  Americans made up 1.5 of the 2.6 million international arrivals who came to the country in 2024.

"Property crimes, financial crimes, and robberies": U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica

While the official State Department travel advisory for Costa Rica has long remained at level two's "exercise increased caution," the U.S. Embassy issued a recent travel advisory warning of a spike in "property crimes, financial crimes, and robberies that have impacted foreigners."

"Criminal gangs have targeted foreign residents and travelers, forcing them to withdraw large sums of cash from ATMs or to make bank transfers," the travel warning reads further. "Tourists have reported break-ins and armed robberies at Airbnbs and other rental properties."

Related: US government warns travelers 'stopping is not allowed'

As Costa Rica has long been considered one of the safest countries in Latin America, past advisories have focused primarily on petty crime such as pickpocketing. But the increase in break-ins at hotels and short-term rental companies has now been recorded for the last several years.

In July 2025, Costa Rica's The Tico Times reported a 40-year-old Canadian tourist was killed during a break-in to his rental home in the popular beach town of Tamarindo.

And although not treated as suspicious by authorities, the mysterious death of the son of former Yankees star Brett Gardner due to carbon monoxide inhalation in March 2025, reported by CNN, led to a string of cancellations amid tourists traveling to the Manuel Antonio resort town in the ensuing months.

For those traveling to Costa Rica, the State Department advises taking basic security practices, especially at rental properties, such as checking for functioning cameras and forming a plan on how to reach out for help in an emergency.

Costa Rica is known for its lush rainforest and diverse array of bird life.Shutterstock

"Minimize your online presence and do not share information on social media"

"Research your Airbnb, rental, or hotel in advance," the suggestions shared by the embassy read further.
Amphenol Corporation (NYSE:APH) is one of the best large cap stocks to invest in for the long term. Amphenol Corporation (NYSE:APH) received a rating update from Barclays on November 13, with the firm raising its price target on the stock to $143 from $120 while keeping an Equal Weight rating on the shares. The firm released the rating update to the companys model after its fiscal Q3 earnings were announced on October 22.

Whats Fueling Wall Streets 90-Day Optimism on Amphenol (APH)?

Amphenol Corporation (NYSE:APH) reported a 53% growth in sales compared to last year, supported by strong organic growth in virtually all of the companys end markets, along with solid organic growth in the IT datacom market. Another factor driving the growth included contributions from the companys acquisition program. Operating margin for the quarter reached a record 27.5%.

Separately, Amphenol Corporation (NYSE:APH) announced on November 6 the completion of its previously announced acquisition of Trexon from Audax Private Equity for approximately $1 billion in cash. The company expects Trexon to be accretive to earnings in the first year after closing and would be included in the Harsh Environment Solutions segment.

Amphenol Corporation (NYSE:APH) is involved in the design, marketing, and manufacture of electrical, electronic, and fiber optic connectors, antennas, interconnect systems, sensors and sensor-based products, and specialty cable. The companys operations are divided into the following segments: Harsh Environment Solutions, Communications Solutions, and Interconnect and Sensor Systems.

While we acknowledge the potential of APH 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.

READ NEXT: 30 Stocks That Should Double in 3 Years and 11 Hidden AI Stocks to Buy Right Now.

Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
Key Points

Deere crushed on sales in its Q4 report, and beat nicely on earnings.

Guidance, however, was weaker than Wall Street anticipated, sparking a selloff.

10 stocks we like better than Deere & Company 

Agricultural machinery-maker Deere & Co. (NYSE: DE) stock fell 4% through 10:35 a.m. ET Wednesday, despite delivering surprisingly good earnings today.

For Q4 2025, analysts forecast Deere would earn $3.83 per share on sales of $9.8 billion. Deere beat the earnings forecast, reporting $3.93 -- and destroyed the sales forecast, reporting $12.9 billion, 32% ahead of estimates.

Image source: Getty Images.

Deere Q4 earnings

Earnings did decline year over year, down 14% despite an 11% gain in sales -- but the numbers weren't as bad as expected. For the full year, moreover, Deere earned only $18.50 per share, a 28% decline, on a 12% sales decline to $45.7 billion -- so relatively speaking, Q4 2025 was much better than 2025 as a whole.

And 2026? Turning to guidance, Deere gave a muted outlook, predicting "large ag" sales down as much as 20%, with other segments of its business mostly up low-to-mid single digits. At best, Deere thinks it might earn $4.75 billion in fiscal 2026, which, divided among the company's 270 million shares outstanding, would mean less than $17.60 per share in profit.

"This past year brought its share of challenges and uncertainty," explained CEO John May, and next year won't be great either. Still, the CEO predicts "we believe 2026 will mark the bottom of the large ag cycle," with things starting to look up thereafter.

Is Deere stock a sell?

Investors don't seem thrilled with the earnings beat, and are even less enthused about guidance. Wall Street analysts, after all, have been telling them to expect Deere to earn $19.32 per share in 2026 -- so what Deere basically guided to was a 9% 2026 earnings miss.

Factor in Deere's valuation, a pricey 27 times earnings, and it's no wonder investors are selling Deere stock today.

Should you buy stock in Deere & Company right now?

Before you buy stock in Deere & Company, consider this:

The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now and Deere & Company wasnt one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.

Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $563,022!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $1,090,012!*
By Toby Sterling

AMSTERDAM (Reuters) -China's Wingtech on Friday said it has appealed decisions stripping it of control of its Nexperia chipmaking subsidiary to the Netherlands' Supreme Court.

The dispute over Nexperia, which has contributed to shortages of chips widely used in car electrical systems, began on September 30 when the Dutch government moved to seize control of the company, citing concerns it was moving intellectual property and operations to China.

A day later, the Amsterdam Enterprise Court suspended Nexperia's former CEO Xuezheng Zhang and placed the company's shares under the control of a Dutch lawyer.

The emergency ruling followed a lawsuit by European members of Nexperia's management alleging mismanagement.

Wingtech's appeal, filed on November 26, argued that the October 1 decisions - made in a single day - were not proper due to Dutch state involvement and because judges ruled "ex parte" - meaning without hearing arguments from Wingtech.

Wingtech's appeal was made to the Supreme Court because the Amsterdam Enterprise Court is an appeals court. The high court is not expected to rule this year.

Separately, Wingtech has appealed the Dutch state's intervention, which was later suspended following talks with Beijing.

Although the U.S., Chinese and Dutch governments have stepped back from the dispute, the struggle for control of Nexperia continues to disrupt production and the auto industry says shortages of its chips still threaten output.

Nexperia makes most of its wafers in Europe, and previously shipped most to China for packaging and distribution. Its European headquarters has halted shipments to China, citing nonpayment, while the Chinese arm is operating independently.

(Reporting by Toby Sterling, Editing by Louise Heavens)
ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP) ranks among the 9 hot energy stocks to buy. On November 6, Wolfe Research reaffirmed its Outperform rating on ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP) and increased its price target to $131 from $130. The change comes after ConocoPhillips announced an 8% dividend raise, which Wolfe Research characterizes as a possible trigger for the market to recognize the companys potential.

Wolfe Research highlighted the companys free cash flow growth in its third-quarter results, estimating a $1 billion gain in 2026-2028, followed by a $4 billion rise in 2029. In addition, ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP) completed the Anadarko purchase and inked $0.5 billion in noncore dispositions, surpassing its $3 billion asset sales goal for 2025.

Moreover, ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP) expects to generate an additional $7 billion in free cash flow by 2029, once the Willow project is operational. Wolfe Research added that COP is a major that should be compared to more prominent energy companies like CNQ and CVX rather than comparatively smaller shale-focused E&P companies, given the clarity on its free cash flow trajectory.

ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP) is a global energy company headquartered in Texas that discovers, produces, transports, and trades crude oil, bitumen, natural gas, liquefied natural gas, and natural gas liquids.

While we acknowledge the potential of COP 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.

READ NEXT: 10 Best Magic Formula Stocks for 2025 and 10 Best Retirement Stocks to Buy According to Hedge Funds.

Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
Digital asset manager Grayscale advanced its plans to convert the Zcash Trust, launched in 2017, into an Exchange-Traded Fund as US regulatory posture begins to shift under the Trump administration. The firm submitted its ZCSH Form S-3 filing, marking a required step toward launching the first Zcash exchange-traded products.

Posting on X on Tuesday, Grayscale said it has filed the ZCSH Form S-3, describing it as an important step required to launch the first ZEC ETPs.

The company also emphasized its position as one of the earliest institutional investors in Zcash. The $35 billion asset manager launched its Grayscale Zcash Trust as a private placement in 2017, just a year after the blockchain genesis block.

The Trust has now filed a registration statement, including a prospectus, with the SEC for the offering, with investors encouraged to review the documents before participating.

Chairman Barry Silbert also weighed in on the Trusts planned transition, signaling confidence in the assets long-term role as US regulators softened their stance on crypto ETFs.

Zcash Price Struggles at $500 Resistance

Grayscales Zcash Trust currently oversees $196.8 million in assets under management, trading under the ticker ZCSH with a 2.50% expense ratio. The conversion to a spot ETF would bring ZEC into alignment with newly approved altcoin ETFs, including the Bitwise Solana ETF, which has already accumulated $621 million in under a month. The strong inflows into comparable products highlight expectations that ZEC could attract significant institutional capital once conversion is complete.

Despite the positive regulatory and structural catalyst, Zcash price action remains muted. ZEC hovered around the $500 resistance, posting less than a 1% intraday gain as the broader crypto market stayed stagnant. Futures markets indicated a decisive sell-the-news reaction.

Coinglass data shows Zcash open interest fell 6.24%, holding just above $1 billion, even as trading volume jumped 20.7% to $3.57 billion. The combination of declining open interest and rising volume suggests that most intraday activity came from traders taking profit on the news and those adjusting existing positions.

Bearish bets piled up as bulls took profit, dragging the ZEC long-to-short ratio below 1 on Tuesday, plunging as low as 0.88 among whale traders on Binance.

With fewer upside bets being placed, traders are pricing in a low probability of ZEC breaking meaningfully above the $505 resistance level in the near term.

Read original story Zcash Price Reclaims $500 as Grayscale Files Form S-3 to Convert $277M Zcash Trust to Spot ETF by Ibrahim Ajibade at Coinspeaker.com
Trendy, high-end celebrity wellness fads are often prohibitively expensive, which only adds to their mystique.

Apheresis  a decades-old medical procedure  was first used in a clinical setting in 1952, but the practice philosophically stretches back to the bloodletting of Ancient Rome and Greece.

Movie stars, influencers, and the generally well-to-do have begun to seek apheresis for broader wellness-related reasons, and while the procedure is pricey, intrepid journalist Kate Spicer agreed to experience it firsthand for The Times.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

Just a few days before Spicer's article appeared, legacy beauty magazine Allure took an in-depth look at the increasingly blurred line between "med spa" treatments and more aggressive cosmetic medical interventions.

"Med spas provide the supply, in most cases, more conveniently and at a lower cost than a board-certified doctor would," the outlet observed.

In Spicer's case, the apheresis procedure occurred at London's Viavi clinic, founded by Dr. Sabine Donnai. Donnai emphasized that what Spicer described as "blood cleaning" was "not a pampering treatment," but rather, a "medical procedure."

Although apheresis has established, evidence-backed clinical applications, the jury is still out on whether it's worth the expense for "cleaning" blood. As Spicer noted, Orlando Bloom was one of the celebrities to tout the procedure, which he underwent due to concerns about microplastics.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

Donnai "collects data assiduously," the outlet said, in order to add to evidence of its efficacy in filtering environmental contaminants like microplastics from the blood.

Microplastics are environmentally pervasive and impossible to avoid completely, and Spicer mentioned "heavy metals, microplastics, forever chemicals, pesticides, [and] herbicides" as toxins apheresis could theoretically purge  for a considerable price.

Viavi clients first require an intake assessment, which costs 14,000 ($18,311), prior to the procedure. Apheresis treatment "costs 3,800 a pop," or $4,970, and the outlet said that one treatment is "rarely enough."

Spicer described a "flush" during the treatment, when a debris canister requires emptying, and said her procedure produced five "flushes," with the highest number Donnai has seen placed at seven.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

"A week after my treatment, I still feel a bit sick all the time," she wrote, adding that Donnai provided an analysis of Spicer's labs, with toxins "as high as she has ever seen."

Apheresis has shown potential as a method for filtering microplastics, but Spicer pointed out that she and many others couldn't afford the 17,800 ($23,280) price tag. To her credit, Donnai didn't frame apheresis as the only way to purge environmental toxins.

"Avoid eating and drinking out of plastic, and try to avoid using nonstick pans and cosmetics with parabens and phthalates," Donnai advised.

In addition to using less plastic and eschewing cookware known to leach toxins, Donnai's final recommendation for accessible blood filtration happened to be one that benefited others.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

"Give blood. Getting rid of 300ml [of blood] with toxins in [it] means you can make your own clean new blood," she advised.

Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices  and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club.
Macquarie Technology Group (ASX: MAQ) today welcomes the Australian Telecommunications Alliances (ATA) decision to change its constitution so that only telecommunications company leaders can be appointed to the Board. The decisions sees Macquaries own Group Executive Luke Clifton join the Board, bringing decades of technological and customer experience leadership.

The change reflects both the organisations commitment to strengthening industry leadership and the value of Cliftons long-standing contribution across the telecommunications sector.

The ATA plays a critical role in shaping national standards, ensuring connectivity for all Australians, advocating for innovation, and supporting the growth of Australias telecommunications ecosystem. The constitution change and Mr Cliftons appointment will help advance these priorities, bringing a perspective informed by his work with customers and partners across government, small and mid-sized business, not-for-profit organisations, and enterprise organisations.

With over 20 years experience across Australias leading telecommunications and managed-services organisations, Clifton has led national transformations in secure networking, SD-WAN, SASE and cyber security-enabled services while prioritising customer-centric culture.

I'm honoured to be joining the Board of the ATA at this important time for the sector. I've been a staunch and passionate advocate for great service delivery and innovation in the telecommunications industry throughout my entire career, said Clifton.

At Macquarie Telecom, our entire ethos is built around being the benchmark for great technology and customer service since our inception in the early 1990s. The change of Board composition to include only the most senior leaders from our industry is a strong signal of intent that we, as a critical sector for Australia, are committed to being the best we can be for our customers, partners, and stakeholders. I look forward to working closely with my industry peers to support the industry in every way I can.

Macquarie Technology Group congratulates Clifton on this recognition and looks forward to supporting him as he continues to contribute to the Australian telecommunications landscape.
(Photo courtesy of Haps Magazine Korea)



Check out whats going on around the city this weekend in Busan.

Please consider subscribing to our YouTube channel so you can keep up-to-date on whats happening around the city.

Weather Forecast

Busan Weather Forecast (Image courtesy of Accuweather)



Music

Pipe Organ Series @ Busan Concert Hall  Thomas Trotter performs in the latest installment of the series. Busan Concert Hall, Busanjin-gu, Friday, 7:30 p.m.

Li Biao Percussion Group @ Busan Concert Hall  One of the worlds best percussionists performs this Sunday evening. Busan Concert Hall, Busanjin-gu, Sunday, 5 p.m.

B0JEONG @ KT&G Sangsang Madang Live Hall  B0JEONGs 2025 concert tour, Hellvetica: Sabotage makes its way to Busan. KT&G Sangsang Madang Live Hall, Saturday, 5 p.m.

Koyote @ BEXCO Auditorium  The vocal trio return to Busan for a Saturday evening concert. BEXCO Auditorium, Centum City, Saturday, 6 p.m.

Busan Jazz Port @ Space Won-ji  Every Saturday evening in November brings a new jazz concert. Space Won-ji, Saturday, 6 p.m.

Live Music @ Ol55  Open stage events take place every Friday and Saturday night. Ol55, KSU, Friday and Saturday, 7 p.m.

Other stuff

Events

Wicked @ Dream Theatre  The first original Broadway production to perform in Korea in 13 years begins its Busan run. Dream Theatre, Busanjin-gu, November 13 through January 18

Christmas Village Busan @ Busan Cinema Center  Enjoy a Christmas-themed village in the city sure to get anyone in the holiday spirit. Busan Cinema Center, Centum City, Through December 25

Indian Film Festival @ Busan Cinema Center  The 13th edition features seven popular Indian films. Busan Cinema Center, Centum City, Thursday through Sunday

CO-Show @ BEXCO  The 2025 CO-SHOW brings together 18 advanced study fields, offering cutting-edge competitions and hands-on programs open to students of any major.. BEXCO, Centum City, Wednesday through Saturday

Korean Franchise Start-up Expo @ BEXCO  Check out a startup fair for aspiring entrepreneurs and the self-employed. BEXCO, Centum City, Thursday through Saturday

2025 BusanASEAN Week @ Dong-gu Cultural Platform  Throughout the week, visitors can explore exhibitions introducing ASEAN countries, a resort-style rest zone, traditional souvenirs, and a market featuring ASEAN drinks and desserts. Dong-gu Cultural Platform, Dong-gu, Through November 30

Nanta @ Sohyang Theatre Shinhan Card Hall  The very popular non-verbal comedic performance features samulnori sounds from various cooking utensils. Sohyang Theatre Shinhan Card Hall, Centum City, Wednesday through Sunday

Sasang Pet Festival @ Silla University Animal Behavior Correction Training Center  Bring your pet to experience a variety of programs where you can enjoy walks, play, and education. Silla University Animal Behavior Correction Training Center (in front of Sasang-gu Animal Welfare Center), Sasang-gu, Saturday, 10 a.m.

Haeundae Kimchi Day With Haenam County @ Haeundae Platform  Stock up on your kimchi making supplies with direct sales of kimchi and sales of agricultural products like pickled cabbage, salt, and red pepper powder. Haeundae Platform, Haeundae-gu, Friday through Sunday

2025 Seven Bridge Tour  Busan Childrens Bicycle Festival @ Spo 1 Park Geumjeong Indoor Gymnasium  A kids bike event and more family fun experiences. Spo 1 Park Geumjeong Indoor Gymnasium, Geumjeong-gu, Saturday, 10 a.m.

2025 Busan Christmas Market @ Lotte Department Store Seomyeon  A Christmas market with all kinds of goodies are up for sale at the Signature Pop-up, B1, Lotte Department Store Busan Main Branch in Seomyeon through December 28. Lotte Department Store, Seomyeon, Through December 28

Village dAnanti Tree Forest @ Ananti Village, Gijang  The village features 100 snow-covered Christmas trees ranging in height from 4 to 10 meters, decorated with 3,000 lights and festive ornaments, and is set to operate until the years end in Gijang. Ananti Village, Gijang, Through December 31

Haeundae Light Festival @ Gunam-ro, Haeundae Beach  The 12th edition of the Light Festival lights up the beach and Gunam-ro for the holiday season. Gunam-ro and Haeundae Beach, Saturday through January 18

Millak Luce Festa @ Millak Waterside Park  The 2nd annual light festival brings festive spirit to Millak-dong. Millak Waterside Park, Suyeong-gu, Through January 31

Green Barley, Becoming the Sea @ Millak Beach Park  The popular end-of-year flower arrangement lets you walk amongst the manmade barley field. Millak Beach Park, Suyeong-gu, Through May 17, 2026

Millak Waterside Sea Cinema @ Millak Waterside Park  Every weekend in November sees nightly screenings. Millak Waterside Park, Suyeong-gu, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 6 p.m.

PNU University Road Light Street Re:naissance @ PNU University Road area  Underway since late October, the PNU University area streets come alive with light from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. daily through January 18. PNU University Road area, Through January 18

2025 Seo-gu Light of Hope @ Songdo Beach, Gudeok Stadium, Chungmu Intersection  Running from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. daily, the streets of Seo-gu are transformed into an array of light sculptures. Songdo Beach, Gudeok Stadium, Chungmu Intersection, Seo-gu, Through March 14

Seomyeon Light Festival @ Around Seomyeon 1st Street  Eight events spread over a few weeks brings the downtown area alive. Around Seomyeon 1st Street, Busanjin-gu, Through February 14

Gwangalli M Drone Light Show @ Gwangalli Beach  This weeks drone show returns to its regular schedule. Gwangalli Beach, Saturday, 7 p.m. and 9 p.m.

International Meet-up @ Cafe With  Join a new language exchange and culture program each Friday night. Cafe With, Kyungsung University, Friday, 7 p.m.

Culture

Busans Treasure Island, Yeongdo @ Busan Museum of Modern and Contemporary History  The exhibition sheds light on the history, culture, and people of Yeongdoan island that encapsulates the dramatic twists and turns of Busans modern and contemporary history. Busan Museum of Modern and Contemporary History, November 18 to March 2, 2026

2025 Jeonggwan Museum Childrens Special Exhibition: The World Inside House-shaped Pottery @ Jeonggwan Museum  To celebrate its 10th anniversary, the museum will hold a special childrens exhibition, The World Inside House-Shaped Pottery, to expand the diversity of its content to meet the needs of visitors and continue its mission of cultural education for future generations. Jeonggwan Museum, Through December 28

Dancing LEGO: 8th Yeongnam Dance Festival Collaboration @ Busan National Gugak Center  The display, located in the B1 and 1F exhibition halls, transforms Koreas traditional performing arts into imaginative LEGO-style brick sculptures from LEGO Maker Colin Jin. Busan National Gugak Center, Busanjin-gu, Through December 21

Writers Revealed  500 Years of Literature and Art from Shakespeare Onward @ Busan Museum  This exhibition, the first of its kind in Asia, features works from Shakespeare, Charles Dickens, Jane Austen, Arthur Conan Doyle, JK Rowling, andf 78 world-renowned British literary giants. Busan Museum, Daeyeon-dong, Through January 18, 2026

Steidl Book Culture Magic On Paper @ Domoheon  This cross-genre archival exhibition illuminates the multifaceted world of Gerhard Steidl, the renowned German publisher of photography and art books. Domoheon Multipurpose Room, Suyeong-gu, Through December 7

Sawadee Thailand @ Sasang Life History Museum  437 cultural items from the Land of Smiles are on display. Sasang Life History Museum, Through November

Arte Museum Busan  The exhibition features 19 works themed CIRCLE, highlighting the natural and cultural elements of Busan. Arte Museum Busan, Yeongdo-gu, Ongoing

Please note that some events may be postponed or canceled around the city. While we do strive for accuracy, some events may change their operating times and days.
Comparta este articulo

Businessman Raul Rocha Cantu, owner of the Miss Universe pageant, is identified by Mexicos Attorney Generals Office (FGR) as the leader of a criminal network dedicated to illegal fuel trafficking, drug trafficking, and arms sales. According to LatinUs, the scheme used containers and rafts, and the stolen fuel was even sold to the public transportation system in the State of Mexico known as Mexibus.

La Silla Rota reported this Wednesday that Soluciones Gasiferas del Sur, a company owned by Rocha Cantu, received contracts from Petroleos Mexicanos (Pemex) worth nearly 2 billion pesos.

Stolen Fuel Through the Usumacinta River

According to the FGR case file, revealed by LatinUs, the criminal network led by Rocha Cantu transported stolen fuel from Guatemala across the Usumacinta River, which serves as a natural border between Mexico and that country.

The operational method for moving the illegal fuel included using rafts to cross the river. Once inside Mexican territory, the gasoline was transported in water tankers and 20,000-liter containers.

The investigation details that the criminal operations were not limited to the border area; the group also operated in Chiapas, Villahermosa (Tabasco), and Queretaro.

Sales to Mexibus and Bribes to Authorities

One of the investigations key revelations is the destination of the illegal fuel: it was even sold to Mexibus in the State of Mexico.

To ensure the movement of the stolen fuel, the network bribed Mexican authorities. The case file indicates that 80 centavos per liter were paid to agents of the Special Prosecutors Office for Organized Crime (FEMDO). Another section of the file states that 18 centavos per liter were paid to public prosecutors assigned to FEMDO.

In addition to fuel trafficking, the FGR is investigating the group for alleged drug trafficking from Guatemala to Mexico and the purchase of weapons destined for cartels such as the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) and Union Tepito.

Million-Dollar Pemex Contracts

Parallel to its alleged illicit activity, Soluciones Gasiferas del Surfounded in Monterrey in 2020 and owned by Rocha Cantureceived significant contracts from Pemex Exploration and Production (PEP).

The state-owned company awarded two contracts to the firm in January 2023, totaling approximately 1.941 billion pesos, according to documentation from La Silla Rota.

djh
Comparta este articulo

Motor oil or coconut oil, industrial silicone, biopolymers running hot inside a veterinary syringe and applied directly into the buttocks, legs, nose, or hip to meet the standard. Homemade injections in makeshift rooms, without anesthesia, without hygiene, botched surgeries, with no idea that the beauty they wanted could cost them their lives.

Since she was 13, Gretel looked for a body that matched her identity. Her transition was guided by what she could afford on her own and the urgency to find a face and a body that would make her feel at peace. But her search ended up becoming a surgical tragedy.

The procedure that was supposed to beautify her turned into irreversible harm. The doctor who operated on her, Charbel Andres Sosa Azar, sliced off her nose, and the procedure left her barely able to breathe. Later he injected a substance into her nasal cavities that sealed off any possibility of airflow. Since then, her life depends on her mouth. She cannot close her lips to sleep. If she does, she suffocates.

The nights go by in fright: she wakes up gasping, hitting her chest, clinging to the idea of staying alive. Her nose is useless; her body, vulnerable; her work, destroyed. For her, the surgery not only weakened her health: it took away the way she earned a living and the presence with which she defended herself in the street.

She tried to seek justice. In 2005 she filed a complaint. The case never moved forward; it sank among desks, paperwork and pressure. And although public discourse boasts a Mexico City with cutting-edge policies for trans people, Gretel lives the contradiction: on one hand, rights announced in forums and documents; on the other, a system that leaves her adrift.

Nearly two decades after the harm, she still has no reconstructive surgery and no public institution has taken on her case. For Gretel, being beautiful ended up meaning losing her ability to breathe.

Context: In Mexico there is no official record of cases of women and trans women who have died from botched surgeries or from injecting body-shaping substances. The organization Brigada Callejera reports that in 2025 alone, around 150 have died and more than 300 have been treated. The most recent data from the National Medical Arbitration Commission (Conamed) reports more than 500 complaints related to the risks of unregulated procedures.

The rise of harm from body-shaping substances

In community work, Elvira Madrid, president of Brigada Callejera, explains that the organization has seen a drastic increase in complications from body-shaping substances among trans women.

They are currently accompanying more than 100 people who continue to wait for hospital care. This increase, she says, is related to the lack of access to specialized medical services and the persistence of clandestine procedures. She adds that the life expectancy of trans women is around 35 yearswell below the national average.

According to Dr. Edith Cabrera, a general physician at the National Polytechnic Institute, the substances most commonly used in these clandestine interventionsand also the most dangerousare industrial-grade liquid silicone, mineral oil, paraffin, polyacrylamide, and products marketed as biogel or natural biopolymers, which in reality are not.

She explains that all of them share a liquid or oily consistency, similar to a soft wax, which makes it easy for them to migrate throughout the body over time. That movement makes them especially harmful because they can shift into areas that cause chronic inflammation, systemic disorders, infections or progressive deformities, further complicating any later attempt at removal or repair.

COFEPRIS has documented that body-shaping substances cause severe infections, necrosis, organ damage, and permanent disfigurement. Added to that are chronic inflammatory reactions and autoimmune effects that continue to appear years later. Gretel is the face of that statistic: harm that does not end and repairs that never arrive.

To be beautiful, she paid with blows and fear

For Salma, beauty was never a whim; it was a desperate way to carve out a place in the world. But her story does not begin in an operating roomit begins on the street, where she works handing out flyers and where every day brings a new risk.

She injected biopolymers as a teenager, following what she then saw as beauty models among older trans women. They were thick substances, boiled oils, applied with ten-centimeter syringes without any control. What in her adolescence seemed like an instant miracle is today pain that does not stop.

When she sought support in the public health system, the response was an appointment eight months away. During that wait, the pain folded her over. Eight months she knew she wouldnt survive. That is why she went to Brigada Callejera, where she does receive care.

Despite everything, Salma keeps going. She breathes halfway through poverty, violence and a body marked by interventions that never imagined such severe consequences. She believed beauty would give her freedom; she discovered it left her more exposed than ever.

For her, being beautiful meant surviving. And surviving, each day, becomes harder.

Living in pain for being beautiful

Sabrina now uses crutches. She looks at her legs, hips, arms, and she knows exactly where it hurts. She knows which areas burn inside, which throb in the early morning, which harden as if hot metal lived under her skin.

For years she has had oil injected into her calves, hips and arms. At the time she did it without thinking; beauty was urgent, a race against fear and discrimination. Today, every night, the price drives itself into her body.

The pain is unbearable. She wakes up because her calf burns, because her hip pulses, because the oil has shifted. She herself saw a 63-year-old friend inject her arms to lift them.

For Sabrina, being beautiful was not a luxuryit was a bet against the world. She boasts that she managed to have a body, but admits the price was far too high because today she wanders through hospitals that give her the runaround, she says, that dont even have gauze; she struggles to get care and wonders why the government has left them alone.

Noemi always thought beauty was a door. A door to the modeling job she dreamed of. Anything that would take her out of those dawn hours cleaning tables and serving drinks. She was 22 when she decided to fix herself a little. She had no money, but someone told her she could do it with oil.

The first fix was with industrial oil, hot, loaded into a thick syringe that went straight into her chest. They told her it was normal for it to burn. That the lumps would settle on their own. That she shouldnt worry if her skin became hard. Over time, the breast began to look deformed, but she carried on: she gathered money, saved for months, borrowed. She paid to correct herself. What they injected her with later also wasnt what they promised.

In mid-2020 she felt a strange heat. Then a stabbing pain. It was very difficult for her to get medical attention because of the pandemic, and when she finally did, they told her the implant fluid had leaked and Noemi could not even lift her arm from the pain. They took her to Ruben Lenero Hospital, where she is still treated today. The daily dressings hurt. Her skin is irritated, inflamed, fragile. The doctors explained that the oil mixed with the shaping substances had deformed ducts. That real reconstruction would cost even more than what she already paid and that it might not even be possible.

She lost her waitress job in the pandemic. Today she and her daughter run a hamburger stand in their neighborhood. I tell her, no surgeries, no putting on a little breast or anything. I was dumb, lookone is dumb, really. If someone had told us that this really happened, none of us would have done it, or I dont knowI dont understand today why we want a body that costs us so much, she adds.

These women all agree that the brutal demand to reach a beauty ideal has cost them dearly. The three paid for more feminine bodies, more acceptable, more beautiful, and today they are seeking medical care.

djh
Firefighters battled a blaze at a high-rise apartment complex in Hong Kong for the second day yesterday, as the death toll rose to 75 in one of the deadliest blazes in the citys modern history.

Rescuers holding flashlights were going from apartment to apartment at the charred towers as thick smoke continued to pour out from some windows at the Wang Fuk Court complex, a dense cluster of buildings housing thousands of people in Tai Po district, a northern suburb near Hong Kongs border with the mainland.

It was unclear how many people were missing or trapped. Hong Kong leader John Lee said contact had been lost with 279 people early yesterday. Authorities did not provide updates on the missing people or how many were still inside the ravaged buildings during a press conference.

Latest video showed rescuers searching in some apartments in the dark. Orange flames were still seen from inside several windows, though the whole complex was now largely a blackened ruin.

Firefighters have been trying to control the flames since midafternoon Wednesday, when the fire was believed to have started in bamboo scaffolding and construction netting and then spread across seven of the complexs eight buildings. Fires in four buildings had been effectively put out, with the remaining three towers under control, authorities said yesterday afternoon.

Rescuers are battling high temperatures and carefully going up floor by floor, thoroughly searching and aiming to rescue people as quickly as possible, said Wong Ka-wing, deputy director of the fire services. (We) dont rule out rescuing more injured people.

One firefighter was among the dead, and 70 people were injured, authorities said. About 900 people were evacuated to temporary shelters overnight.

Resident Lawrence Lee was waiting for news about his wife, who he believed was still trapped in their apartment.

When the fire started, I told her on the phone to escape. But once she left the flat, the corridor and stairs were all filled with smoke and it was all dark, so she had no choice but to go back to the flat, he said, as he waited in one of the shelters overnight.

Winter and Sandy Chung, who lived in one of the towers, said they saw sparks fly around as they evacuated Wednesday afternoon. Although they were safe, they were worried about their home. I couldnt sleep the entire night, Winter Chung, 75, told The Associated Press yesterday.

3 arrested on suspicion of manslaughter

Three men, the directors and an engineering consultant of a construction company, were arrested on suspicion of manslaughter. Police have not directly named the company where they work.

We have reason to believe that those in charge of the construction company were grossly negligent, said Eileen Chung, a senior superintendent of police.

Police yesterday also searched the office of Prestige Construction & Engineering Company, which the AP confirmed was in charge of renovations in the tower complex. Police seized boxes of documents as evidence, according to local media. Phones for Prestige rang unanswered.

Authorities suspected some materials on the exterior walls of the high-rise buildings did not meet fire resistance standards, allowing the unusually fast spread of the fire.

Police also said they found Styrofoam  which is highly flammable  attached to the windows on each floor near the elevator lobby of the one unaffected tower. It was believed to have been installed by the construction company but the purpose was not clear. Secretary for Security Chris Tang said they would investigate the materials further.

Buildings were covered in scaffolding

The housing complex consisted of eight buildings with almost 2,000 apartments for about 4,800 residents, including many older people. It was built in the 1980s and had been undergoing a major renovation. Hong Kongs anti-corruption agency said it was launching a probe into possible corruption relating to the renovation project.

Officials said the fire started on the external scaffolding of a 32-story tower, then spread on the bamboo scaffolding and construction netting to the inside of the building and then to the other buildings, likely aided by windy conditions.

Bamboo scaffolding is a common sight in Hong Kong at building construction and renovation projects, though Lee said officials will meet with industry representatives to discuss a switch to metal scaffolding amid safety concerns.

While we know that bamboo scaffolding has a long history in Hong Kong, its flame retardancy is inferior to that of metal scaffolding. For safety reasons, the government believes that a complete switch to metal scaffolding should be implemented in suitable working environments, said Eric Chan, the Chief Secretary for Administration.

Authorities will also be carrying out immediate inspections of all housing estates that are undergoing major renovation work to ensure scaffolding and construction materials meet safety standards.

The fire was the deadliest in Hong Kong in decades. In November 1996, 41 people died in a commercial building in Kowloon in a fire that lasted for around 20 hours.

CHAN HO-HIM & HUIZHONG WU, HONG KONG, MDT/AP

Like this: Like Loading...
A financial resource matching session for Macau and Hong Kong youth startups was recently held in Nansha, co-hosted by the districts Human Resources and Social Security Bureau, the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office, and Bank of China (BOC) Nansha Branch. The event, the first since the launch of the Nansha Financial 30 Measures, featured 30 startups and 19 startup base representatives. BOC Nansha introduced specialized loans, cross-border services, and support measures, while three founders shared how youth startup loans helped secure funding for growth. By October, over RMB20 million had been disbursed to 20 eligible startups.

Like this: Like Loading...
In an investigation of a gambling fraud case, the Judiciary Police (PJ) uncovered an extortion scheme in which a gang coerced 10 scammers into paying cash to prevent exposure, leading to the arrest of a 13-member extortion ring linked to 35 cases, with losses ranging from HKD2,500 to HKD4,000.

The extortion scheme was uncovered during a June investigation by the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau (DICJ) into a fraud operation at a casino.

In this scheme, 10 victims pretended to place bets on behalf of gamblers using fake gestures, allowing them to appropriate the betting funds for themselves and defraud the gamblers.

According to the police, members of the extortion gang subsequently approached these victims, demanding hush money after witnessing their successful scams. They threatened to report the victims to casino security, prompting them to comply out of fear of criminal prosecution.

Police dismantled the gang on Wednesday, comprising members aged 52 to 82 from Macau, Hong Kong, and mainland China. PJ spokesman Ho Wai Lok stated at a press conference yesterday, Each extortion demand ranged from several hundred HKD, with criminal activities persisting since the beginning of the year. The proceeds were primarily used for personal consumption and gambling, noting that illicit gains from casinos in Macau and Cotai reached at least HKD800,000.

The police also reported that a separate fraud investigation has been initiated involving 10 victims linked to the case.

Longtime friend caught stealing from victim

At yesterdays press conference, police also announced the arrest of a local woman on Tuesday in connection with a theft case involving stolen gold jewelry and valuables worth approximately MOP500,000. The incident occurred in the Areia Preta area, and the suspect is believed to be a roommate and longtime friend of the victim.

Investigations revealed that the suspect repeatedly stole jewelry and gold items hidden under the victims bed between May 7 and December 24 last year, replacing them with counterfeit gold purchased online. The suspect committed at least 11 thefts, illegally profiting around HKD160,000, which she claimed was used for daily expenses and gaming top-ups.

According to supplementary police records, the victim had been living with the suspect after divorcing her husband. The stolen gold items included wedding gifts from relatives and friends, which the victim only noticed were missing when she discovered the counterfeit replacements on November 24.

Meanwhile, among the three cases announced, one involved illegal currency exchange, leading to the arrest of a local female manager and a female employee from a jewelry store inside a casino in ZAPE. The illegal exchange involved at least HKD70 million, generating over HKD2 million in proceeds.

Like this: Like Loading...
Macaus annual Light Up festival returns this year for a 37-day run from December 6 to January 11, 2026, with a focus on large-scale installations across different districts.

The Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) announced that the events budget has been reduced to MOP17.83 million, allowing organizers to concentrate on immersive exhibits, community activities, and culinary attractions aimed at boosting tourism and the nighttime economy.

Themed LightscapeHorizon, this years event focuses on three main exhibition areas: Nam Van, the Northern District, and NAPE, and will feature 28 installations along with community activities and culinary attractions, all aimed at boosting tourism and enhancing the nighttime economy, according to MGTO director Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes.

Speaking at the press conference yesterday, the official explained that the decision to reduce the budget and shorten the events duration was intentional.

It allows the festival to concentrate on three areas with larger installations and more focused activities, to attract tourists and residents to visit, experience, check in, and consume. She also stated that activities were funded primarily by Macaus six leisure enterprises.

This year, new features include weekend pop-up events and a special 3D light projection mapping titled Macao Odyssey: The Story Unfolds at the Macao Grand Prix Museum. This presentation, designed by the local KCT Cultural Tourism team, will be accompanied by themed carnival activities offering gourmet food, drinks, and games to enrich the visitor experience.

Emphasizing the events international focus combined with local innovation, the MGTO head explained that this years theme highlights Macaus unique dual heritage as both a Historic Centre and a Creative City of Gastronomy.

In addition, MGTO said it will operate two free Light Up Bus Routes during Light Up Macao 2025. Services will operate from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. from Fridays to Sundays and on designated festive days throughout the event.

The tourism bureau stated that the event aims to blend food, culture, creativity, and technology to create a light and shadow extravaganza.

International Artist

Participation

A panel showcasing the works of international and local artists featured in this years festival followed the MGTO directors speech and event introduction yesterday.

South Korean artist Jeon Young Ill presented End of Light: The Black Hole, which combines traditional Hanji paper with modern lighting to create immersive and philosophical effects. Beijing-based Weixin Huang introduced Starry Snow, a digital installation inspired by the Edelweiss star that reflects his expertise in architectural and material innovation. Locally, Hei Lok, president of the Macau Artists Society, showcased Zodiac Atlas, described as a canvas for projections and a stage for wishes.

Other notable international participants who were not present at the press conference but are part of the festival include the returning Australian duo Amigo & Amigo, Portuguese artist Emanuel Barbosa, and the U.S. design studio Pneuhaus, recognized for its work at events like Burning Man and Vivid Sydney.

Like this: Like Loading...
A 50-year-old local civil servant was apprehended for hit-and-run after crashing his car into roadside railings on Alameda Dr. Carlos dAssumpcao I last Friday evening. The Public Security Police used the Eyes in the Sky surveillance system to track the suspect to his residence. Police found him intoxicated, with a blood alcohol level of 1.64 g/L. The man reportedly had consumed alcoholic drinks during dinner before the incident. No injuries were reported from the crash.

Like this: Like Loading...
Veteran journalist David Chan, who passed away mid-month at 81, was mourned by the media industry, which praised him as a low-key, warm-hearted, and highly respected figure in the journalism community.

Chan entered the media industry in the 1960s, holding various roles including reporter and editor.

Throughout his career, he worked for multiple media outlets, including newspapers and radio stations, contributing significantly to the field.

In his editorial, Paulo Rego, founder and director of the bilingual weekly newspaper Plataforma Macau and the multilingual news hub Plataforma Media, highlighted Chans profound command of Chinese, his trust across generations, and his dedication to mentoring young journalists, making Chan a vital pillar of the newspapers bilingual Chinese-Portuguese initiative.

He stressed Chans ability to bridge Chinese and Portuguese news perspectives, as well as his wisdom and experience in navigating challenges while laying the groundwork for long-term development.

The bilingual weekly newspaper and multilingual news hub mourned Chans passing with endless remembrance, expressing gratitude for his contributions to the Macau Media Workers Welfare Association and his commitment to daily professional practice rooted in mutual respect.

Chan held successive leadership positions in multiple organizations representing Macau journalists. A fellow member of the Macau Media Workers Welfare Association shared with the Times that Chan was humble and approachable, always eager to engage with younger colleagues to understand diverse viewpoints and share his own experiences.

In a heartfelt tribute, Goncalo Cesar de Sa, founder and editor-at-large of Macao News, expressed his condolences following Chans passing.

I worked with David for many years. I always admired his calmness, professionalism, and kindness, said Cesar de Sa in a message to the Times. He emphasized Chans unique ability to understand the intricacies of Macau, a skill that enabled him to produce high-quality articles consistently.

We have lost an excellent journalist who left his mark on the territory with his articles. He will certainly remain an important reference in the history of Macaus journalism, Cesar de Sa added, reflecting on Chans lasting impact.

Like this: Like Loading...
Rescuers searched yesterday in rivers and the rubble of villages for bodies and possible survivors after flash floods and landslides on Indonesias Sumatra island left 69 people dead and 59 missing.

Monsoon rains over the past week caused rivers to burst their banks in North Sumatra province Tuesday. The deluge tore through mountainside village, swept away people and submerged more than 2,000 houses and buildings, the National Disaster Management Agency said. Nearly 5,000 residents fled to government shelters.

Seventeen bodies were recovered by yesterday in South Tapanuli district and eight bodies in Sibolga city, North Sumatra provincial polices spokesperson Ferry Walintukan said in a statement. In the neighboring district of Central Tapanuli, landslides hit several homes, killing at least a family of four.

Rescue workers also recovered two bodies in Pakpak Bharat district and were searching for five people reported missing in Humbang Hasundutan, another district devastated by landslides that killed two villagers, Walintukan said. At least one resident died when mud and debris struck a main road on a tiny Nias island, he added.

With many missing and some remote areas still unreachable, the death toll was likely to rise, Walintukan said.

Cloud seeding is planned

More downpours were forecast for North Sumatra province and the danger of extreme rainfall will continue until next week, Indonesias Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency said.

It recommended weather modification to reduce rain, and disaster agency chief Suharyanto said cloud seeding would be done to prevent further rainfall and floods.

We are deploying weather modification technology starting tomorrow so that rain does not fall during this emergency response period, Suharyanto, who goes by a single name like many Indonesians, told reporters before visiting flood- and landslide-hit areas of Sibolga city yesterday.

Cloud seeding involves dispersing particles into clouds to create precipitation, which would be done to redirect rainfall away from areas where search and rescue efforts were continuing.

Television reports showed rescue personnel using jackhammers, circular saws, farm tools and sometimes their bare hands to dig in areas marked by thick mud, rocks and uprooted trees. Rescuers in rubber boats were searching through a river and helped children and older people who were forced onto the roofs of flooded homes and buildings.

Deadly floods hit other provinces

Floods were also occurring elsewhere in the vast archipelago, including in Aceh and West Sumatra, where hundreds of houses were flooded, many up to roofs, the disaster agency said.

Rescuers by yesterday recovered at least nine bodies after landslides triggered by torrential rains struck three villages in Central Aceh on Wednesday, said the district chief Halili Yoga, who called on the local disaster agency to deploy and excavator to pull out at least two people buried under mud.

Acehs Disaster Mitigation Agency said nearly 47,000 people were displaced by floods in the province, forcing about 1,500 residents to flee to temporary shelters.

In West Sumatra province, rescue teams pulled six bodies of people who drowned in floods in Lumin Park residential area in the provincial capital of Padang, the local disaster agency reported. The flooding submerged more than 3,300 houses in Padang Pariaman district.

The local agency said rescuers were searching for 14 people believed to be buried under mud and rocks that hit hilly Jorong Toboh village, while landslides also cut off bridges and blocked main roads, isolating some residents.

Heavy seasonal rain from about October to March frequently causes flooding and landslides in Indonesia, an archipelago of 17,000 islands where millions of people live in mountainous areas or near fertile floodplains. NINIEK KARMINI & BINSAR BAKKARA, MEDAN, MDT/AP

Like this: Like Loading...
Studio City Macau, in collaboration with international fashion magazine Man About Town China, will celebrate its 10th anniversary with the Night of Cinematic Mastery on December 10.

The event will showcase accomplished filmmakers and performers, offering guests an immersive experience through a film-inspired evening that reflects the resorts Fun Never Ends spirit.

As a film-themed integrated resort under Melco Group, Studio City has partnered with Man About Town China to present a gala that combines international reach with industry influence.

According to a statement issued by the integrated resort, the evening will include a gourmet gala dinner prepared by Studio Citys Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant, Pearl Dragon, followed by a fireworks display at 10 p.m.

In addition, from November 21 to January 4, 2026, Studio City will transform into a fantastic world of light and motion, presenting a captivating lineup of themed events.

Like this: Like Loading...
Hong Kongs worst fire in memory was still smoldering in several apartment towers yesterday as firefighters struggled to rescue dozens of people who remained unaccounted for.

Heres what to know about the disaster:

Why the buildings burst into flames

Officials are investigating why construction materials, netting and bamboo scaffolding being used in renovations to the outsides of the high-rise buildings at Wang Fuk Court caught fire.

In the meantime, authorities arrested three people, the directors and an engineering consultant of a construction company, on suspicion of manslaughter. Police did not name the company, but they searched the office of Prestige Construction & Engineering Co., which The Associated Press confirmed was in charge of the renovations. Phone calls to the companys offices went unanswered.

The type of buildings affected

About a third of Hong Kong residents live in the governments Housing Authority dwellings. Wang Fuk Court is a complex of privately-owned but subsidized housing.

Built in the 1980s, the basic apartments measure 40-45 square meters, according to online real estate listings. Like most Hong Kong mass market housing, they appear not to be equipped with smoke detectors or sprinkler systems.

The buildings were constructed before revisions to Hong Kongs fire codes required mandatory fire refuge floors.

Hong Kongs 7.5 million residents mostly live in cramped apartments crammed on scarce flat lands or perched on the slopes of steep mountainsides. Many of those high-rise buildings are crowded closely together.

How authorities have responded

Firefighters struggled to bring the blazes under control as their ladders and hoses could only reach just over halfway up the 32-story buildings, or about 53 meters  under 20 stories.

High winds and extremely high heat may have prevented use of aerial equipment such as helicopters. The high temperatures also deterred firefighters from entering the buildings to fight the blaze and rescue survivors, said Derek Armstrong Chan, deputy director of Hong Kongs Fire Service Operations.

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee said the government would set up a task force to conduct a full investigation into the disaster. He said the case would be submitted to the Coroners Court, which conducts inquiries into the causes and circumstances of certain deaths.

Helping the survivors

The hundreds of survivors who were evacuated or were outside the buildings at the time the fire started were staying in temporary shelters, including a nearby school.

There, workers were distributing bottled water, food and other necessities. Volunteers were bringing supplies like water and snacks.

Seventy people were injured, the citys Fire Services Department said. The Hospital Authority said earlier that 17 taken to hospitals were in critical condition. MDT/AP

Like this: Like Loading...
Comrades of the Revolutionary Communist International (RCI) from various states of Brazil gathered in Sao Paulo for an emergency congress. Its purpose was to found a new Brazilian section of the International and to hold a cadre school. Dozens of delegates, who had been previously elected in regional plenary sessions, took part in the proceedings from 20 to 23 November, beginning a new phase in the history of the RCI in Brazil.

[This report can also be read in Portuguese]

The event took place two months after the majority of the former Brazilian sections leadership broke with the RCI. With only two months to go before the congress, an undeclared faction crystallised around leading member Serge Goulart, which opted for a unilateral and hasty split. The immediate reason was the prospect of losing the congress to the minority Faction in Defence of the International, which was gaining strength from the rank and file of the organisation, especially among the youth.

Those comrades who refused to embark on the sectarian adventure of the majority of the leadership of the International Communist Organisation (OCI) responded to the call of the International Secretariat of the RCI and held an emergency conference on 21 September. At this conference, they called for a congress to found a new section of the International in Brazil, to bring together supporters of the RCI from across the country, and to debate the ideas they defended.

A new beginning

The decision taken by the delegates at the congress on the name of the new organisation, Internacional Comunista Revolucionaria (Brasil) (RCI Brazil), is a highly symbolic gesture. This unique choice reflects the desire of the Brazilian comrades to establish a true Brazilian section of the International. It expresses confidence in the ideas and traditions of the RCI as those capable of overcoming the difficulties of the past and paving the way for the future.

The majority of the OCI leadership resisted assimilating the ideas and traditions of the RCI, despite the fact that, since 2008, what was formerly the Marxist Left had formally been a part of the International. Over time, disagreements arose, especially over the character of Chinese capitalism and the possibility of developing the productive forces under capitalism.

Some of these differences were expressed in August this year at the RCI World Congress. Serge Goularts undeclared faction presented a counter-report to the congress, which opposed the world perspectives document with their own. However, their perspectives document did not obtain a single vote from any delegate or member of any of the other sections and groups of the International, which is present in more than 60 countries.

In addition, some of the leaders of the Brazilian section were convinced by the ideas and analysis of the International and decided to open a debate in the Brazilian section to correct the perspectives that had been developed. A factional struggle ensued, and Serges undeclared faction, faced with the prospect of losing the national congress convened for November, put forward a plan to break with the RCI.

It became clear that Serge Goularts secret faction never broke with the legacy and traditions of so-called Lambertism from which they had come. Serge and other former cadres of the section were educated and trained by Corrente O Trabalho, a tendency which operated within the Brazilian Workers Party, and were members of the so-called Trotskyist international of Pierre Lambert, a French Trotskyist leader. From that period, they brought with them Zinovievist conceptions of theory, party building, and methods  based on resolving political differences with administrative measures and suppressing debate  and they never abandoned them.

The delegates gathered at the congress held in Sao Paulo showed enormous optimism towards the founding of a legitimate section of the RCI in Brazil. This was also the sentiment of the dozens of greetings received from national sections of the RCI from all continents. With this new beginning, the new Brazilian section embraces the true ideas of the International, and its comrades are willing to fully assimilate its legacy and traditions.

The awakening of youth

The delegates' enthusiasm is based on the understanding that we are living in a period of historic change, marked by turbulence and upheaval, as highlighted by Jorge Martin of the International Secretariat on the first day of the congress. As examples of this turbulence, he listed the so-called Gen-Z revolutions, the important strike movements in Italy and France, the largest concentration of US military power in the Caribbean in 40 years, the farce of the peace agreement in Gaza, and the defeat of Zelensky in Ukraine.

Despite the constant flow of news stories, which gives the impression of chaos, Jorge noted that general trends can be observed beneath the surface of these events. The central factor is the crisis of the capitalist system, a crisis of an organic nature. This is resulting in a readjustment in the relations between the capitalist powers.

This situation is aggravated by public debt, which has grown enormously since the 2008 crisis. The system is paying the price for the capitalists' strategy of using state debt to get out of the last crisis  now global debt is equivalent to 250 percent of global GDP! This acts as a huge dead weight on the economy, preventing a vigorous economic recovery. This deepens the contradictions of capitalism by reinforcing financial speculation, with capitalists always chasing easy and quick profits.

The political effect of this is that every generation under the age of 30 has only lived under the conditions created by the 2008 crisis. It can therefore be said that Gen-Z is the generation that has only known capitalism in crisis.

Two fundamental characteristics of the new situation have therefore emerged. First, there is a high degree of radicalisation and sympathy for communism in all countries, especially among the younger sections of the population.

Second, there is a growing crisis of legitimacy of bourgeois democratic regimes and their representatives in the eyes of an increasingly broad section of the population. Instead of a march towards Bonapartist or dictatorial regimes, as the former OCI leadership maintained, what we are seeing is an increasing crisis of bourgeois democracy, expressed in the rise of right-wing demagogues such as Donald Trump, and the search for alternatives on the left, such as Zohran Mamdani.

Another effect of the new situation  and one that was a central factor in the debates that preceded the break of the majority of the OCI leadership with the RCI  is a realignment in the relationship between the imperialist powers. At the same time that the US is experiencing a relative decline, China is clearly rising as an imperialist power. In fact, recent agreements involving rare earth elements signify a recognition by the US that it is unable to bend China to its will.

Despite this, the US remains the most powerful and reactionary force on the planet. Trump recognises that the US is experiencing a relative decline  only relative  and seeks to act on that basis. He thus aims to regain control, first and foremost, over the Americas as his priority sphere of influence. This is reflected in the 50 percent tariffs on Brazil, the financial aid to Argentina, the impositions on Panama, and the escalation of threats against Venezuela, Colombia, and Mexico.

Absent subjective factor

Jorge Martin also highlighted an important change in the recent political situation. Ten years ago, the crisis was mainly expressed in the dominated and less economically powerful countries. Now it is also manifesting itself in the advanced countries. And the movements that are shaking these countries are not coming from traditional workers' organisations, but from below, pushing aside the old leaders, unions, and parties.

The inspiring revolts led by Gen-Z are a continuation of the insurrections that took place in the wake of the 2008 crisis. Jorge pointed out that, in all of these movements, the masses demonstrated their total dedication and will to struggle.

But unfortunately, they paid for their initiative with thousands of deaths. In some cases, they achieved partial victories. But even in those cases, soon after, little changed, or things returned to as they were before.

In the global uprisings of 20242025, Gen-Z adopted the flag of the anime One Piece as a symbol of rebellion: a black cloth with a smiling skull wearing a straw hat, above two crossed tibia bones. This pirate flag is appearing in protests around the world, from Indonesia to Ecuador, from Madagascar to Italy.

This image is associated with the pirate crew led by the protagonist Luffy, who faces the tyranny of a world government and corrupt elites on his journey. The flag has become an immediate emblem for young people who find no inspiration in traditional political parties and ideas. Lacking a genuine reference point from the left, they turn to an imaginary universe to fuel their collective courage.

By raising Luffys flag, they affirm their desire for freedom, camaraderie, and a radical transformation of society. This phenomenon expresses enormous potential if this insurgent energy is connected to the genuine ideas of communism, the most powerful inspiration that Gen-Z can embrace, to transform revolt into real social change. These revolts, spread across five continents, reveal Gen-Zs powerful revolutionary instinct.

The great lesson of all these revolutionary processes, however, is the need for a revolutionary party capable of implementing a programme for the complete transformation of society. It was the lack of this subjective factor that, sooner or later, determined the defeat of these movements.

This subjective factor can develop rapidly, as has been shown several times in history. But it is not enough for an organisation just to grow numerically. It is necessary that it grows on the right basis, so that all the effort is not lost. In this sense, even ruptures and splits may be necessary to advance to a higher stage of development. We are experiencing the beginning of a very favourable situation for building a political alternative for the masses, and the RCI-Brazil is ready to advance this goal.

A correct view of Brazil

In analysing the national situation and the tasks of the RCI in Brazil, Caio Dezorzi emphasised the importance of a correct analysis of the inter-imperialist struggle on a global scale in order to understand what is happening in Brazil. He demonstrated how, by rejecting the former leadership's mistaken thesis that China is a dominated country and not an imperialist power, it is possible to reinterpret the events in Brazil after the 2008 crisis in a much more accurate way, giving us a far better understanding of these events.

The old leadership, however, could not incorporate these developments into its analysis without questioning its long-held axioms that China is a dominated country and that the development of productive forces has been impossible since 1938. This is based on the fact that Trotsky wrote at the time that the productive forces had stopped growing. This schematic interpretation of Trotskys 1938 perspectives led the leaders of the old section to fail to realise their mistakes and to develop a sectarian and dogmatic line.

Caio pointed out, however, that Brazils recent political and economic history can only be fully understood in the light of the dispute between the US and China. For example, Bolsonaro faced the same dilemma as Milei in Argentina, which is politically aligned with the US but economically deeply dependent on China. Even in the case of the massacre in Rio de Janeiro, this factor is evident, with Claudio Castro seeking Trump's support and pressing for the Comando Vermelho to be recognised as a terrorist organisation.

Traces of instability and of the international crisis are also developing in Brazil. Social and economic contradictions are advancing beneath the record rates of employment on the surface. Official data hides a situation of high levels of informal employment, precariousness, and low wages in formal jobs, the deterioration of public services, constant increases in the cost of living, growing deindustrialisation, and the spread of crime and social breakdown. This situation is subject to an unstable international situation, in which Brazil increasingly positions itself as a supplier of raw materials.

Under these conditions, communists need to formulate a set of transitional demands that translate their revolutionary programme into terms that are understandable to the masses, according to their level of consciousness at any given moment. These may include, for example, the nationalisation of American companies; the establishment of Petrobras as a 100 percent state-owned company, from the well to the petrol station; state control of petrol, gas, telecoms, the internet and cable TV; free public services for all, such as health, education, transport, and housing, with all the funding necessary for quality service; and decent employment for all. All of this raises the question of non-payment of the public debt.

The Central Committee that was elected to lead the new section of the RCI in Brazil has a mandate to develop the most appropriate programme for communists to disseminate in the coming period in the country. In each of the 60 countries where the RCI is present, its comrades face the challenge of developing a programme tailored to the conditions in the country in which they are building.

In Brazil, such a programme should take into account, for example, a survey conducted on social media posts, which shows that the younger the person, the more likely they are to make radical and left-wing posts, reaching 48 percent among those aged 18 and under.

At the end of the debates, some amendments presented by the delegates were accepted, and the political document was unanimously approved.

The ideas of Ted Grant

Although there has been a section of the RCI in Brazil since 2008, Ted Grant's ideas and legacy have never been adequately disseminated in this country. Today, it is clear that this was not accidental. The leadership of the former Brazilian section of the RCI upheld another legacy, that of Pierre Lambert and his political tendency. They had no interest in ensuring that Brazilian comrades had a thorough understanding of the history and ideas of their own International.

A complete change in this orientation was initiated by our cadre school on 22 November, which included a session on the life and ideas of Ted Grant, the founder and main theoretician of the RCI, after the assassination of Leon Trotsky. The lead-off was given by the author of this report, Johannes Halter, and included contributions from comrades on Teds life and legacy, which enriched the discussion.

Ted was responsible for keeping the torch of Marxism burning under the most adverse conditions, particularly in the face of the collapse of the Fourth International. One of the important discussions that emerged after World War II was a debate over what was happening in Eastern Europe. The defeat of the Nazis resulted in the Red Armys occupation of a number of countries that were previously under the control of the capitalist class. The leaders of the Fourth International put forward an analysis that capitalist regimes had been established in these countries under the protection of the Red Army.

Ted Grant, however, saw that, although Stalins policy was one of class collaboration via popular fronts, the fragility of the bourgeoisie at that time, and the revolutionary initiative of the masses in these countries, led the bureaucracy to expropriate capital and establish bureaucratic regimes in its own image.

Whereas the leaders of the Fourth International, with their incorrect methods, were disoriented by the developments that followed, such as the Tito-Stalin split, Ted explained that this was a struggle for power between two wings of the same Stalinist bureaucracy. He analysed the development of bureaucratic regimes based on what Trotsky had already characterised as proletarian Bonapartism, with the Stalinist bureaucracy going further than it would have liked under pressure from the struggling masses.

Post-war economic growth

Another important debate between Ted Grant and the leaders of the Fourth International was over their analysis of the economic situation after World War II. The leaders of the Fourth International maintained that, as Trotsky had predicted before the war, a period of capitalist crisis, revolutionary explosions, and the rise of the Fourth International had now begun. After all, Trotsky wrote that this was the perspective.

Ted was the only one who saw that, according to all available evidence, the capitalist system was entering a period of economic growth. Ted noted that the capitalists were able to restore a certain normality after the war by relying on the collaboration of the social democrats and the Stalinists to contain or divert mass movements.

This situation can only be fully understood if one realises that the end of World War II led to something that Trotsky had not foreseen at its outset. The dynamics of the conflict did not lead to a weakening of the Stalinist bureaucracy, but rather strengthened it to a surprising degree.

Like Stalinism, reformism too was strengthened in this period. The British Labour Party, for example, which, under pressure from the masses, began to implement a genuine programme of reforms. It did so, however, without jeopardising the existence of the capitalist class or the private ownership of the major means of production.

This was the basis for the post-war economic recovery and the postponement of the revolution, at least in Europe. It was therefore the basis for enormous growth in the productive forces, as well as further contradictions, which then led to a new classical crisis of capitalism.

Ted defined this situation as a counter-revolution in democratic form. Failing to understand this, the leadership of the Fourth International continued to argue that crisis and dictatorship were coming. This error of analysis led to political mistakes, such as in France, where the section decided to go underground. This could have been corrected through debate and a revision of this policy by the comrades of the Fourth International.

A faction in the American SWP, led by Felix Morrow and Albert Goldman, developed a position similar to Teds on this issue. However, James Cannon crushed them with Zinovievist methods, branding them as London Gangsters, and replacing debate with manoeuvres and character assassination.

Theoretical errors of the old leadership

Reality, therefore, invalidated Trotskys pre-war perspective. This, in itself, should not have been a cause for concern, since a perspective is a working hypothesis that must be revised as events unfold.

The leaders of the Fourth International, however, did not understand this method of analysis and continued to repeat Trotskys pre-war perspectives in a dogmatic manner. Lambert maintained, until the end of his life in 2008, that the productive forces had stopped growing, supposedly defending in an orthodox manner the legacy of Trotsky and the Transitional Programme.

Lamberts position was inherited and defended by the majority of the CC of the OCI within the RCI, and led to its error in analysing China today, for example. Alan Woods, in his preface to the Brazilian edition of The History of Philosophy: A Marxist Perspective, demonstrates how the basis of this mistaken position is not dialectical materialism, but formal logic.

Once it is distorted into a rigid and ossified schema, Marxism is turned into its opposite  from a profound and scientific method into a lifeless dogma that can be mechanically applied to any situation or context that is required. To cite one example which may be familiar to you: capitalism is unable to develop the productive forces under any circumstances. Therefore, China cannot have developed the productive forces. Therefore, China is a backward, undeveloped, dominated semi-colony controlled entirely by the USA. Therefore, the alleged conflict between China and US imperialism is merely an invention or a figment of the imagination. The logic of this seems impeccable, and, in fact, it faithfully follows the rules of formal logic. Once one accepts the initial proposition, the rest follows, as night follows day. [...] The theory that, in the age of imperialism, no development of the productive forces is possible, is regarded as an absolute proposition valid for all time  a magical key that opens all doors. It is based on a misinterpretation of what Trotsky wrote in 1938 Trotsky wrote in The Transitional Programme, where he pointed out that the productive forces had ceased to grow. That was correct at that time. But Trotsky never claimed that this was a proposition that had a universal application, independent of time and space. In fact, he warned against this in advance: But a prediction in politics does not have the character of a perfect blueprint; it is a working hypothesis One must not, however, get intoxicated with finished schemata, but continually refer to the course of the historic process and adjust to its indications. (Trotsky, Writings, 1930, p.50) By turning what was a conditional prognosis into an absolute assertion, valid for all time and applicable in all circumstances, the sectarians have turned Trotskys scientific analysis into a complete nonsense.

That is why we criticised the method of analysis used by the majority of the CC of the OCI. We presented a political and theoretical criticism that aimed to draw attention to this problem and correct it. However, as we have seen, this was not a problem exclusive to the majority of the CC of the OCI. They inherited this error from Lambert.

Readers can see for themselves the similarity between the political report defended by the majority of the OCI CC, available here [in Portuguese], and the translation by RCI comrade Taisa Leonardo of a 20-page document by Pierre Lambert, dated January 1969, entitled The Actuality of the Transitional Programme, available here [in Portuguese]. The original French can be read here.

Both the OCIs document and Pierre Lamberts share the same assumptions as a starting point for analysing the situation in the year 2025 and at the end of the 1960s respectively. These assumptions include:

The productive forces have stopped growing.

The productive forces have become destructive forces.

The only barrier preventing victory is the crisis of revolutionary leadership.

If the productive forces grow, then the possibility of a proletarian revolution would be refuted by history and we should adapt to the capitalist system.

But it was not Lambert who first developed these positions. Lambert was not a theorist and inherited his ideas first from Pierre Frank, the leader of the French section at the time of Lamberts youth, and then from Ernest Mandel and Michel Pablo. This error therefore stems from the post-World War II leaders of the Fourth Internationals misunderstanding that Trotskys perspectives were not historical laws. They were based on the objective conditions of the historical period Trotsky was analysing until his assassination.

Historical patience

A third example of the difference between Ted Grants method of analysis and that of the other leaders of the Fourth International concerns the understanding of the isolation of the Fourth International and the working-class movement. Shortly before Trotsky was struck with an ice pick by a Stalinist agent, he had made a prediction that in ten years the Fourth International would become the dominant force in the labour movement.

A decade later, not only was the Fourth International not hegemonic, but it was struggling to survive. It was a series of small national groups that were isolated from the working class. Faced with this fact, the leaders of the Fourth International drew different conclusions, all equally false.

One was Pabloism, with its theory of camps and the tactic of dissolving into the Stalinist parties. Another was Mandelism, which revised the perspective of the Fourth Internationals leadership after World War II, making a 180-degree turn to say that capitalism was in a new historical stage and the proletariat had become bourgeoisified, even in 1968.

Ted Grant maintained that, however surprisingly long the isolation of the Trotskyists was proving to be, it could be understood objectively. Sooner or later it could be overcome, but not by some trick or magical shortcut applied by a clever leadership.

It would be the very development of the contradictions inherent in capitalism that would lead to new crises, the beginning of a new economic situation, and social turmoil. It would be the masses own experiences of the communist and reformist parties, with all their betrayals and mistakes, that would open up new political opportunities and turn the tide in the Trotskyists favour.

The Trotskyists tactics, Ted emphasised, should first and foremost take into account the masses connection to the organisations they had historically built. He explained that, at first, the masses always tend to look towards what is familiar to them, and what they consider to be the simplest way to solve their problems. Unlike Marxists, the masses do not learn from books, but from their own experience.

Until new political conditions arose, Ted maintained that Trotskyists should patiently work within the traditional working-class organisations in which the masses were organised and which they used. They should do so without dissolving their own organisation, as Michel Pablo proposed, without adapting to the petty bourgeoisie or to opportunist leaders, and without hiding their banner and programme.

This was the tactic by which Trotskyists could best prepare their forces for the new revolutionary opportunities that were still on the horizon.

Zinovievism and Trotskyism

These are just a handful of examples of the controversies between Ted Grant and the other leaders of the Fourth International. It became increasingly clear that behind the various differences was a question of method. Ted advocated for dialectical materialism as the method for investigating each new problem and developing a policy. Meanwhile, the self-styled leaders of the Fourth International applied all sorts of eclectic methods.

Added to these constant political and theoretical clashes, an increasingly Zinovievist regime was developing in the Fourth International and in the various sects that emerged from its collapse.

This bureaucratisation of the regimes of these organisations is unsurprising. Unable to apply the Marxist method of analysis to interpret reality, the so-called Trotskyist leaders were incapable of formulating a correct political line. Without that, the political regime of their organisations could not be guided by democracy and freedom of discussion. Instead, to save the supposed authority of their leaders, it was necessary to suppress dissent and defeat critics even before ideas were debated.

Brazilian comrades of the RCI experienced this type of bureaucratic Zinovievist regime firsthand. The secret faction of Serge Goulart sought in various ways to suppress discussion and dissent, resorting to sanctions, slander, and administrative manoeuvres.

In Brazil, the majority of the CC justified its decision to split by claiming that the RCIs leadership had committed a crime in demanding that, until the scheduled national congress was held, the wave of sanctions against the leaders of the Fraction in Defence of the International be suspended.

The RCI also asked that manoeuvres like merging regional committees and changing the responsibilities of full timers  all to bureaucratically undermine the minority  be reversed. The leadership of the International asked that the focus be on political discussion and that differences be resolved democratically at the congress.

Teds work with the so-called leaders of the Fourth International ended in 1965. After three bureaucratic expulsions by the Fourth Internationals leadership, Ted came to the conclusion that the defence of Trotskys legacy could only be done far away from the so-called Trotskyists and their tendency towards setting up fronts of revolutionaries. From then on, he devoted himself to establishing an independent tendency based on the true ideas and organisational methods of Trotsky and Marxism.

In conditions of extreme isolation, against the pressure of imperialism and Stalinism, which both came out of WWII strengthened, Ted was responsible for keeping the torch of the ideas of Marx, Engels, Lenin, and Trotsky burning. The contrast between his clarity and the decline of the Fourth International was not limited to tactical differences or personality issues. It represented a profound clash of methods.

While the leaders of the Fourth International sank into Zinovievism, dogmatic formalism and eclecticism, Ted Grant rigorously upheld and applied dialectical materialism. He understood that perspectives are working hypotheses to be revised in accordance with the real situation, and that there are no shortcuts or magic tricks in building the revolutionary party.

A profound lesson left by Ted Grants life is that political clarity is inseparable from attention to Marxist ideas and theory. Theoretical weakness and an inability to convince through free debate have always led so-called Trotskyists to bureaucratisation and the use of Zinovievist tricks to suppress dissent. This type of deviation always leads to splits and crises.

Ted founded a tradition  of which the RCI and its members are heirs  on the solid foundations of Marxist ideas, enriched by the experience of decades of struggle. His legacy is not just a set of documents, but a lifetimes proof of the importance of Marxist theory, patience, and revolutionary audacity.

A profound lesson imparted by Ted, and learned by the participants of our cadre school, was that it was through the development of capitalisms contradictions that a new period of revolutionary opportunities opened up, which allowed the Marxists to overcome their isolation. What we have been experiencing since the 2008 financial crisis is, therefore, a spectacular confirmation of the economic and political perspectives developed by Ted Grant.

Launch of The History of Philosophy: A Marxist Perspective

The founding congress of the new RCI section in Brazil also featured a session dedicated to the launch of the Portuguese edition of Alan Woods' book The History of Philosophy: A Marxist Perspective [available here in the original English from Wellred Books]. On Saturday afternoon, delegates and guests gathered in the auditorium for a presentation of the book by Jorge Martin.

The launch of Alans book breaks a seven-year drought, as, for all that time, the former leadership refrained from publishing a single book in Brazil. Meanwhile, the Mexican section published eight books in 2024 alone. Not to mention that, since 2021, the International has launched a worldwide campaign in defence of Marxist theory and against postmodern ideas, which had very little resonance in the Brazilian section at the time.

The book The History of Philosophy: A Marxist Perspective, in particular, was systematically refused publication in Brazil by the former leadership. Excuses were constantly made, and four years passed with the book gathering dust in a drawer. Brazilian comrades who wanted to read it had to purchase the work in English or Spanish at international events.

Two and a half months after the split, however, communists of the Brazilian RCI managed to organise the translation of the book, which shows that the decision not to publish it was political.

The choice to publish this specific book was also no accident. The Brazilian comrades are convinced that the best way to build the new section of the RCI in Brazil is to found it on the solid rock of Marxism, and to understand and defend Marxist ideas as the greatest theoretical achievement of human thought.

After the book launch, the audience was invited to attend another session of our cadre school, which featured a rich discussion on dialectical materialism, introduced by Marcos Andrade. A surprising number of delegates and guests took part in the discussion, highlighting the comrades thirst to debate philosophy and to learn and assimilate a Marxist understanding of the subject.

In the coming months, comrades of the RCI Brazil will devote themselves to studying each chapter of The History of Philosophy: A Marxist Perspective. They will also invite all friends of the RCI to join the voyage of discovery announced by Alan Woods in his introduction and so well reinforced by Jorge Martins presentation during Saturdays launch.

RCI as inspiration: are you a Communist?

Comrades from various sections of the RCI participated in the congress. Brazilian comrades left inspired by the fantastic progress of the International in countries such as the United States, Mexico, Canada, Italy, and Great Britain. The International is now present in 60 countries and, in all of them, incredible gains are being made on the basis of the radicalisation of the youth.

The common denominator for progress in all of these places has been the worldwide Are you a Communist? recruitment campaign, launched in August 2023. This campaign combined a systematic orientation towards the youth, especially in schools and universities, with a dedicated focus on theoretical training and the development of material for the theoretical and political education of young people.

Reports on the progress of the RCI around the world deeply inspired the Brazilian comrades who participated in the congress. This was evident during the collection held on Friday night, led by Rennan Valeriano.

All branches in Brazil were called upon to announce the total amount they would contribute to the collection. At the end of these announcements, it was revealed that the comrades had exceeded the initial fundraising goal. Incredibly, we raised more than R$30,000  this at the congress of an organisation that has just been born! Another demonstration of the comrades' enormous enthusiasm was the auction of a cap from the Canadian section of the RCI, which was the subject of intense bidding between several comrades. It was finally sold for R$500.

One of the most exciting moments of the congress came at the end of Sundays session. The leader of the Italian section, Alessandro Giardiello, took to the floor to declare that, from everything he had seen during the event, the Brazilian comrades had won his confidence that they were capable of building a genuine section of the RCI in Brazil.

Our confidence and security in our future derive from the fact that we are advancing armed with Ted Grants legacy and, most importantly, his method of analysis. This theoretical arsenal represents the living ideas of Marx, Engels, Lenin, and Trotsky, that is, the authentic thread of revolutionary continuity that goes back to the Communist League and which has been preserved for us.

On this basis, we will build a genuine section of the Revolutionary Communist International in Brazil. If Ted Grants historic patience was vital to preserving the thread of continuity of Marxism under the most adverse conditions, it now finds its dialectical complement in the revolutionary impatience of Gen-Z.

The theory preserved with such effort by Ted and the comrades of the RCI will serve as a weapon in the hands of the youth, which has nothing to lose. These ideas, the ideas of genuine Marxism, constitute the cornerstone on which we will build the revolutionary party that history demands in Brazil, and the International that humanity needs throughout the world.
On 22 and 23 November, more than 110 people gathered in Paris for this year's Revolutionary School to discuss the most urgent problems of our time.

[Originally published on marxiste.org, website of Parti Communiste Revolutionnaire, French section of the RCI]

This school reached far beyond Paris: around twenty comrades from Caen, Bourges, Nantes, and Strasbourg were also in attendance, as well as a comrade from our American section, the Revolutionary Communists of America.

Organised by the Paris branches of the Revolutionary Communist Party (PCR), this weekend of training took place against a backdrop of worldwide upheaval: rising tensions between rival imperialisms, political crises, but also revolutionary mobilisations across a whole series of countries. As many comrades pointed out throughout the weekend, only Marxism can provide the theoretical basis for navigating such turmoil. This school was therefore very timely!

Where is France going?

Comrade Gabriel Vergne opened the proceedings with a powerful presentation on the prospects for French capitalism. He discussed the profound crisis of the regime, particularly since the early parliamentary elections in July 2024. Faced with political instability, the French bourgeoisie is divided between the need to intensify austerity attacks on workers and youth, and, on the other hand, the fear of provoking a large-scale social movement.

The Bloquons tout movement  which was sabotaged by the reformist leaders of the labour movement  was only a foretaste of the colossal struggles that are brewing. It was therefore an essential discussion to arm activists and help them understand  and explain  the current situation.

Next, Jules Legendre outlined the history of French imperialism in Africa and how Frances colonial domination of the continent was transformed during the 20th century into more indirect  but equally brutal  economic and political domination. Today, new imperialist powers are competing with French imperialism in Africa, which has now been driven out of a whole series of countries, such as Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali.

Nevertheless, French imperialism continues to exploit and oppress entire countries, while subjecting workers in France to a barrage of austerity measures. The struggle to overthrow it is therefore a common struggle by the working class on both sides of the Mediterranean.

The end of the day was devoted to a discussion on fascism, introduced by comrade Pietro S. With the National Rally (RN) on the verge of power, many young people, concerned about its success, are questioning its nature. Pietro explained that the RN, whilst a reactionary bourgeois party, is not a fascist party.

Given the enormous social weight of the working class and the current dynamics of the class struggle, the establishment of a fascist regime is not on the agenda in France in the short term. That said, the intimidation and attacks carried out by fascist groups are already a threat to which the labour movement must respond.

In defence of Marxism

The second day began with a discussion entitled In defence of Marxism, introduced by Jerome Metellus. The aim of this talk was to respond to the numerous attempts to revise Marxism, particularly in academic circles. Jerome revisited the three fundamental, constituent parts of Marxism: dialectical materialism, historical materialism, and Marxist economics. During the discussion, various comrades spoke to demonstrate the vitality of these ideas, using various examples to illustrate how they still apply today.

The last session of the school focused on the theme of class, party and leadership. Comrade Guillaume Eudeline emphasised the urgency of building a revolutionary party, firmly rooted in the working class and armed with the revolutionary ideas of Marxism. This was the key to the victory of the Russian masses in 1917, who had such a party: the Bolshevik Party of Lenin and Trotsky.

Only implacable firmness in principles and equal flexibility in tactics can avoid the two pitfalls of opportunism and ultra-leftism. Several comrades illustrated the tragic consequences of the absence of a party sufficiently prepared to intervene in a revolutionary situation: in May 1968 in France, in Germany between 1918 and 1923, and in Spain during the civil war of the 1930s.

In his conclusion, Guillaume asked all participants a question: Who wants to actively participate in the overthrow of capitalism? All hands in the room immediately shot up! Eight people have already joined the PCR in the wake of the school, and a dozen other participants have been invited to attend the next meetings of our branches.

As a clear sign of the enthusiasm generated by this school, sales of the political material produced by the PCR and our international publishing house, Wellred Books, reached a new record. We made nearly 800 in sales, more than 500 of which was from books!

There is no doubt that this revolutionary school was the most successful ever organised in Paris. All the comrades came out of it fired up, ready to redouble their efforts in the building of the Revolutionary Communist International in France!
The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, has expressed, on November 27, profound concern over the escalating crisis in Guinea-Bissau, condemning in unequivocal terms the military-led coup and all actions that undermine the countrys constitutional framework.

He stressed that disregarding the will of citizens who voted peacefully in the 23 November general elections represents a grave breach of democratic norms. Through his spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, the UN chief on Thursday called for the immediate and unconditional restoration of constitutional order and the release of all detained officials.

Guterres further appealed to all actors to demonstrate restraint, uphold democratic institutions, and respect the electorates mandate. He underscored the need for disputes to be resolved through peaceful dialogue and lawful mechanisms, reaffirming the UNs robust backing for ECOWAS, the African Union and the West African Elders Forum in their efforts to protect democracy and stabilise the situation.

His remarks come as Guinea-Bissaus armed forces announced they had seized state power on Wednesday, citing alleged attempts by political figures to destabilise the nation, and as senior military officer Horta Inta-A was sworn in on Thursday as transitional president for a one-year term.
Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has launched on November 27 the countrys next five-year development framework, the 20262030 National Development Strategy (NDS 2), designed to fast-track the nations progression toward upper-middle-income status by 2030.

Building on the foundation of the outgoing NDS 1, the new blueprint is anchored on ten national priorities and seeks to deepen reforms that enhance competitiveness and ease the cost of doing business. Mnangagwa highlighted goals including maintaining macroeconomic stability, boosting value addition in agriculture and mining, strengthening infrastructure across all sectors, and reinforcing food and nutrition security.

The strategy further aims to foster a knowledge-driven, digitally enabled economy, promote inclusive development, expand job creation and youth entrepreneurship, and strengthen access to quality social services such as health and education.

Mnangagwa underscored that industrialisation, modernisation and robust resource beneficiation will be central to ensuring broad-based national benefit. Complementing this, Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube noted that NDS 2 introduces innovative mechanisms to drive sustainable, resilient growth, supported by strong monitoring systems and disciplined fiscal and monetary management to safeguard the currency, stimulate investment, and ensure equitable wealth distribution.
ECOWAS, on Thursday, November 27, has suspended Guinea-Bissau from all its decision-making bodies following the military coup that removed President Umaro Sissoco Embalo from power.

The decision, taken by the blocs Mediation and Security Council after an Extraordinary Virtual Summit chaired by Sierra Leones President Julius Maada Bio, reflected deep concern over the escalating political crisis.

ECOWAS condemned the coup, urged the armed Forces to return to the barracks, and insisted that constitutional governance be restored without delay.

The bloc demanded the immediate release of all detained officials and called for the National Electoral Commission to proceed swiftly with announcing the results of the 23 November elections. A mediation mission will be dispatched to Bissau, with ECOWAS reserving the right to impose sanctions on those deemed responsible for undermining the democratic process.

The United Nations also issued a strong condemnation, with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres calling for the unconditional restoration of constitutional order and the release of detained authorities. President Embalo has since fled to Senegal, where authorities confirmed his safe arrival.

Meanwhile, military officers identifying themselves as the High Military Command for the Restoration of National Security and Public Order have taken full control of state power, appointing General Horta Inta-A as transitional president and naming new military leadership. The junta announced the lifting of curfews and movement restrictions from Friday as the country awaits clarity in the wake of contested electoral claims and deepening instability.
A military-escorted convoy transported uranium from the Somair site in Arlit on Thursday, 27 November 2025, covering roughly 250 kilometres toward Agadez. The site, which holds over 1,300 tonnes of uranium, has been unable to export its stock since the Benin border closure. The operation follows the June 2025 nationalisation of the Air Mining Companypreviously majority-owned by Oranodeepening diplomatic friction between Niamey and Paris after the 2023 coup.

Orano has condemned what it calls the illegal transport of uranium, saying it has no information on the volume moved, its destination, or the security arrangements. The French firm has already triggered two arbitration cases, and the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes ruled two months ago that Niger must not sell the disputed stock.

During a recent visit to northern Niger this month, General Abdourahamane Tiani reiterated that the uranium belongs to the Nigerien people and insisted Niamey will not ask anyones permission to sell it.

A source close to the government, speaking to RFI, suggested Niger is seeking a credible buyer to avoid fuelling nuclear proliferation, though the existence of the convoy was not confirmed. As the standoff escalates, Orano has signalled that it may initiate further legal action, underscoring a widening gulf between Nigers assertion of resource sovereignty and Frances commercial and legal claims.
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:

Charlotte Bigras, an audiologist and lecturer at Universite de Montreals School of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Credit: Joelle Simard-Lapointe

For most of us, the hum of a refrigerator, the clatter of plates or a nearby conversation are just background noise. But for some, these sounds are uncomfortable, distressing or even painful. Hyperacusis, or heightened sensitivity to sound, can result from head trauma, autism or ear disorders. In some cases, the cause cannot be identified.

Regardless of its origin, hyperacusis can significantly impact daily life, leading to a fear of noise, social isolation or excessive use of earplugs or noise-canceling headphones.

But there has been little research on hyperacusis, and the lack of knowledge about the condition has impeded the development of effective diagnostic tools.

Charlotte Bigras, an audiologist and lecturer at Universite de Montreal's School of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, is working to change that.

"We currently use subjective tools such as questionnaires and measures of loudness discomfort levels," said Bigras. "We have nothing objective, which makes it difficult to evaluate the effectiveness of a treatment. It also means that those who would pay to treat hyperacusis, including the CSST, Quebec's workers' compensation board, are reluctant to recognize it."

Blind spot in testing

In her doctoral thesis, Bigras delved into the characteristics and underlying mechanisms of hyperacusis with the goal of improving clinical assessment. In a new study, she examines loudness discomfort level, a commonly used variable, at very high frequenciesabove 8,000 hertz. The work is published in the journal Hearing Research.

"Clinics usually test hearing at frequencies between 250 and 8,000 hertz, as this is the range that is important for speech comprehension," she explained. "However, we know that some early-onset hearing impairments, such as tinnitus, can first appear at higher frequencies, so standard tests fail to detect them."

Bigras's study confirmed that hyperacusis can occur at frequencies above 8,000 Hz, which conventional tests don't measure. Therefore, testing at higher frequencies could become a new clinical evaluation tool.

'It's all in your head'

Hyperacusis is more common than you might think. About 15% of people live with some form of the disorder. Of this group, more than 10% report that it frequently or constantly interferes with their daily activities.

This means that more than one in every 100 people is significantly impacted by hyperacusis.

According to Bigras, those affected tend to isolate themselves to avoid noisy environmentsand that might make them seem antisocial.

"Unlike hearing loss, which is visible or at least measurable, hyperacusis is difficult to observe and quantify," she said. "Many patients are told 'it's all in your head' but it's actually a sensory disorder."

Bigras hopes to change this perception by developing scientifically validated benchmarks for diagnosing hyperacusis. This would enable early identification and appropriate treatments to improve the quality of life of people living with the disorder.

Desensitizing the brain

There are several approaches to alleviating hyperacusis symptoms, including cognitive behavioral therapy to address the patient's fear of noise and anxiety about their condition worsening.

Another approach is sound therapy, which retrains the brain's auditory system to better tolerate sounds. This may involve gradually habituating the patient to environmental sounds of increasing intensity or to continuous low-level white noise generated by a wearable device.

While a medical cause can sometimes be identified and addressed, treating hyperacusis usually requires a multidisciplinary approach combining audiology and psychology.

More information: Charlotte Bigras et al, Loudness discomfort levels at extended high frequencies in young adults: A potential marker of hyperacusis, Hearing Research (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2025.109425
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:

Loss of TDP-43 leads to widespread APA changes. Credit: Nature Neuroscience (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41593-025-02049-3

Neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) are medical conditions characterized by the progressive degradation of cells in the brain, spinal cord and nerves. Over time, these diseases cause a decline in varying mental and physical functions, such as memory and cognitive deficits or a loss of voluntary muscle control and an inability to move parts of the body.

Past studies showed that both ALS and FTD are associated with the dysfunction of the TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43). In patients diagnosed with these diseases, this protein was found to abnormally accumulate in the cytoplasm (i.e., the gelatinous liquid that fills the inside of cells), while being depleted from the nucleus (i.e., the "control center" of cells that contains their genetic material).

The link between this pattern of TDP-43 accumulation and some neurodegenerative diseases is now well-documented. However, the molecular processes via which this protein regulates the RNA of the patient and contributes to progression of these diseases have not yet been fully elucidated.

Two research teams at Stanford University and University College London (UCL)Nature Neuroscience, suggest that this loss of TDP-43 could influence a mechanism known as alternative polyadenylation (APA), which plays a key role in the expression of genes and the function of proteins.

"Our project emerged from a critical gap in understanding how TDP-43 dysfunction affects RNA processing in ALS and FTD. TDP-43 is a master editor of RNA in cells," Yi Zeng, researcher at Stanford and co-author of the first paper, told Medical Xpress.

"In ALS and FTD, it leaves the nucleus and forms toxic clumps in the cytoplasm of degenerating neurons. Recent breakthroughs showed this causes splicing defects, where the missing editor fails to remove unwanted sections from RNA messages. This affects important genes like STMN2 and UNC13A; our lab co-discovered the splicing defects in UNC13A."

In addition to this widely investigated function, the protein TDP-43 is known to have other functions that remain less investigated in the context of neurodegeneration. Some earlier studies had found that this protein helps to determine where RNA "messages" will end, via polyadenylation.

"Think of it like deciding where to put the period at the end of a sentenceput it in the wrong place and you completely change the meaning," said Zeng. "Where an RNA ends determines its stability, localization, how much protein gets made, and even what kind of protein gets made, so different ending points can completely change a gene's output."

The approach employed by the Stanford team

Both the team at Stanford and the one at UCL drew inspiration from earlier works suggesting that polyadenylation processes are somewhat disrupted in neurodegenerative diseases and that this could be linked to the abnormal accumulation of TDP-43.

"For instance, when TDP-43 is lost, STMN2 RNA not only includes unwanted sections but also ends prematurely," said Zeng. "Our primary objectives were to systematically map how many genes show altered polyadenylation when TDP-43 is lost and understand the molecular rules governing how TDP-43 binding controls where RNAs end. In addition, we set out to validate these changes in patient tissue and determine whether these changes affect protein behavior in disease-relevant ways."

To perform their experiments, Zeng and his colleagues used a combination of techniques to map how the loss of TDP-43 in nuclei affects cell APA processes. First, they analyzed publicly available datasets collected from patients with ALS or FTD, specifically looking for hints of altered polyadenylation.

"We then used human stem cell-derived neurons where we could reduce TDP-43 levels to mimic disease, directly comparing normal and TDP-43-deficient neurons," explained Zeng. "Because standard RNA sequencing isn't designed to map polyadenylation sites precisely, we employed specialized 3' end sequencing that maps exactly where each RNA molecule ends at single-nucleotide resolution."

As part of their experiments, the researchers also knocked down the TDP-43 protein in neurons and used a technique known as 3' end sequencing to map all polyadenylation sites across the genome. Using computational tools, they identified sites that were altered by the loss of TDP-43 and combined their observations with data collected by earlier studies.

"Importantly, we validated our findings in patient samples, confirming these polyadenylation changes occur in actual patients, not just models," added Zeng. "For select genes like TMEM106B, a known FTLD-TDP risk gene, we performed functional studies showing that altered 3' UTR lengths from polyadenylation changes affect protein production levels, demonstrating real biological consequences."

The approach employed by the UCL team

For their paper, researchers at UCL studied the link between TDP-43 loss and APA processes using similar methods to those employed by the team at Stanford. First, they developed a new bioinformatic framework that allowed them to identify various APA sites.

They then examined pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons in which TDP-43 was depleted, looking for APA alterations in these cells. This allowed them to pin-point APA sites around which TDP-43 binding occurred and shed light on how the protein regulates the selection of these sites.

Similarly to the team at Stanford, these researchers also set out to investigate whether the APA changes were also evident in tissue extracted from individuals with ALS or FTD post-mortem. They also used techniques known as RNA-sequencing, SLAM-sequencing and ribosome profiling to shed further light on the effects of TDP-43 on specific aspects of APA.

Impact of TDP-43 loss on alternative polyadenylation

The two studies concurrently carried out by the research team at UCL and by Zeng and his colleagues at Stanford offer important new insight into the molecular underpinnings of both ALS and FTD. Specifically, the researchers showed that the loss of TDP-43 in nuclei causes polyadenylation defects in hundreds of genes.

"We uncovered an entirely new dimension of RNA misprocessing in ALS and FTD," said Zeng. "These changes were found to occur in patients, establishing polyadenylation dysregulation as a bona fide disease feature. TDP-43 binding strength and position determine its effect, with TDP-43 acting like a guard blocking inappropriate ending sites that get used when it's gone."

The researchers also showed that the altered polyadenylation of the gene TMEM106B following TDP-43 loss impaired the production of proteins. Notably, variations in this gene were previously linked to a greater risk of developing FTD.

"Importantly, three independent labs published similar findings simultaneously using different approaches, including the team at UCL and another research group at UC Irvine," said Zeng. "We now have a more complete picture of TDP-43 dysfunction: both splicing and polyadenylation defects affecting hundreds of genes critical for neuron survival. These polyadenylation changes could help detect TDP-43 pathology, track disease progression, and measure therapeutic response, addressing a key field need."

Therapeutic implications and future research directions

The recent work by these independent research teams could potentially inform the development of future treatments for ALS, FTD and potentially other neurodegenerative diseases. While translating their findings into therapeutic strategies could take time, their papers offer a comprehensive map that could guide further studies focusing on how TDP-43 loss contributes to neurodegeneration.

"As TDP-43 pathology occurs across ALS, FTD, certain Alzheimer's forms, and other conditions, understanding polyadenylation dysregulation may have broad implications across this spectrum of diseases," said Zeng. "We are pursuing several research directions that will allow us to move from discovery to patient impact.

"First, we must distinguish drivers from passengers. Not all hundreds of polyadenylation changes necessarily contribute to disease, so we need to determine which drives neurodegeneration by testing whether correcting specific events improves neuron survival and identifying which appear earliest in disease progression."

In their next studies, the researchers are planning to also explore the impact of TDP-43 loss on different types of cells and across varying neurodegenerative diseases. For instance, they could investigate whether motor neurons exhibit different alterations than cortical neurons, which could ultimately be linked to the distinct symptoms of ALS, FTD and some types of Alzheimer's disease.

"As part of our next studies, we will also try to determine if these changes track disease progression or measure therapeutic response. This work is already underway," said Zeng.

The development of pharmaceutical drugs aimed at preventing or reversing the effects of the APA alterations uncovered by the researchers will take some time. Nonetheless, upcoming studies could pin-point genes and pathways that are most affected by TDP-43 loss, which could be promising therapeutic targets.

"Our mechanistic insights into how TDP-43 controls polyadenylation may also inform strategies to compensate for its loss," added Zeng. "The overarching goal is to use this more complete understanding of TDP-43 dysfunction to develop tools that help patients."

Written for you by our author Ingrid Fadelli, edited by Lisa Lock, and fact-checked and reviewed by Robert Eganthis article is the result of careful human work. We rely on readers like you to keep independent science journalism alive. If this reporting matters to you, please consider a donation (especially monthly). You'll get an ad-free account as a thank-you.

More information: Yi Zeng et al, TDP-43 nuclear loss in FTD/ALS causes widespread alternative polyadenylation changes, Nature Neuroscience (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41593-025-02049-3 Sam Bryce-Smith et al, TDP-43 loss induces cryptic polyadenylation in ALS/FTD, Nature Neuroscience (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41593-025-02050-w Journal information: Nature Neuroscience

 2025 Science X Network
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: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Researchers at University of Tsukuba have demonstrated that during Japan's COVID-19 booster vaccination campaign, online information influenced vaccination intentions in ways similar to the initial rollout. The study identified a "cyclical effect," whereby an increase in vaccination intent prompted further information-seeking behavior, which in turn reinforced beliefs and attitudes.

Japan's COVID-19 vaccination program began in 2021 with a two-dose primary series that rapidly achieved widespread coverage. As new variants emerged, booster doses were recommended. However, the type of information that would influence previously vaccinated individuals to form vaccination intentions regarding booster shots remained unclear.

This study, published in Vaccine, surveyed 594 Japanese adults aged 2564 through an online research company at two time points: February 2022, when booster shots became available to the general adult population under 65 and four months later.

The researchers examined the relationship between online information and vaccination intent. Drawing on prior research, online vaccine-related information was classified into three types: (1) information on vaccine efficacy and side effects, (2) practical information regarding when and where the boosters could be obtained, and (3) domestic and international vaccination trends.

The findings revealed that practical information about vaccine availability enhanced self-efficacy and perceived benefits, strengthening vaccination intent. Conversely, technical information on vaccine efficacy and side effects reduced perceived benefits and weakened intent. Notably, the study confirmed a cyclical effect: stronger vaccination intent led to increased information-seeking behavior, which further reinforced beliefs and attitudes. These patterns were aligned with those observed during the initial rollout.

This study provides empirical evidence that, post-vaccine dissemination, a dynamic interplay persists between online information and vaccination intent where they mutually reinforce one another. These insights are essential for the design of effective information strategies during future outbreaks of infectious diseases.

More information: Sanae Inoue et al, The mutual cyclical influence of internet information and vaccination intention on post-dissemination vaccination: A longitudinal study during the availability period of COVID-19 booster shots, Vaccine (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2025.127741 Journal information: Vaccine
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:

Regional frequency estimation of the ODAD4 c.245delA variant in Quebec. Credit: Cells (2025). DOI: 10.3390/cells14181460

A study led by the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Center (The Institute) has identified a rare genetic variant in the ODAD4 gene that causes primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD), a chronic hereditary disorder affecting the respiratory system. Through extensive genetic and genealogical analysis, the research team found strong evidence that this variant likely traces back to a single ancestor who lived roughly 330 years ago and may account for undetected PCD cases across Quebecparticularly in the Bas-Saint-Laurent and Cote-du-Sud regions.

The study also reveals that this variant can lead to a previously unrecognized, milder form of PCD. The researchers' findings, published in Cells, could explain why some undiagnosed individuals experience chronic sinusitis, recurrent ear infections, persistent wet cough or severe nasal congestion from birth.

PCD is a rare genetic disorder that impairs the structure and function of ciliamicroscopic hair-like structures that help move mucus out of the airways. When cilia do not work properly, mucus builds up, leading to chronic infections and inefficient mucociliary clearance. Over time, people with PCD typically develop bronchiectasis, an irreversible widening of the bronchial tubes that causes persistent mucus accumulation and is visible on medical imaging.

"This study is the first to describe a milder form of the disease that causes lifelong upper respiratory symptoms, but does not always progress to visible lung damage, and, importantly, to show that it is very likely associated with a Quebec founder variant," says Dr. Adam Shapiro, senior author of the study and founder of the McGill University Health Center (MUHC) PCD clinicthe only specialized clinic in Quebec that provides state-of-the-art diagnostic testing, with phenotype and genotype testing.

"Our findings have immediate clinical implications. They mean there are people in Quebec, particularly in Bas-Saint-Laurent and Cote-du-Sud, who likely have PCD but have never been evaluated for it because their lungs appear 'too good,'" he adds.

The researchers' analyses revealed that carriers of the novel variant c.245delA likely descend from a single ancestor who lived roughly 330 years ago, during the French settlement of Quebec. Further simulations showed that the c.245delA variant is more common in two regions of eastern Quebec along the south shore of the Saint Lawrence River. In these areas, the estimated frequency of the variant is as follows:

Bas-Saint-Laurent: 1 in 111 people

Cote-du-Sud: 1 in 143 people

"This strong geographic concentration suggests a clear founder effect and indicates that additional PCD cases may exist in these regions, meaning physicians may be unknowingly caring for patients with the c.245delA variant causing their respiratory issues," says Dr. Shapiro, who is also Investigator in the Child Health and Human Development Research Program at The Institute, a pediatric respirologist at the Montreal Children's Hospital of the MUHC and Associate Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at McGill University.

From five patients to a population signal: How a Quebec founder variant emerged

In this study, the research team reported on five individuals with no familial relationship and with PCD caused by biallelic variants in ODAD4meaning that both copies of the gene, one inherited from each parent, carried a disease-causing alteration. The patients were identified through clinical patients' referrals to the MUHC PCD clinic and through the Genetic Disorders of Mucociliary Clearance Consortium (GDMCC), a collaborative network involving eight research sites across North America led by the University of North Carolina (UNC). Researchers from McGill University, UNC and Yale University also contributed to this work.

Three of these individuals were of French-Canadian descent and shared the same novel homozygous variant, c.245delA, while the two other cases, identified in the United States, carried other ODAD4 variants.

Strikingly, two Quebec patients carrying the c.245delA variant, aged 14 and 38, displayed unusually mild lower-airway symptoms, with no evidence of bronchiectasis. Despite this milder lung involvement, both individuals still experienced significant chronic sinus disease, recurrent ear infections and a persistent wet cough. One patient also experienced fertility problems, another common consequence of PCD, due to the essential role of cilia in moving both sperm and eggs.

"The reason why the c.245delA variant in ODAD4 is associated with a milder form of the disease in some people remains unclear. Regional screening for this variant in Quebec may help identify additional cases and deepen our understanding of this newly recognized form of PCD," says Dr. Shapiro.

To determine whether the Quebec cases shared a common origin, the researchers combined whole-genome sequencing, state-of-the-art genetic modeling and four centuries of genealogical data. Using the CARTaGENE population database, which includes genetic and health information from 43,000 Quebecers, they identified carriers of the rare ODAD4 variant. Advanced analytical tools then enabled the team to trace how the variant was transmitted through generations and to link consenting carriers to the BALSAC database, which contains more than 400 years of birth, marriage and death records from across Quebec.

The next step: Increasing diagnosis through targeted genetic testing

When PCD is diagnosed early, a treatment can be offered to help slow down its progression. Unfortunately, because PCD symptoms resemble many more common respiratory conditions, the disease often goes unnoticed. Diagnosis is also complex, requiring multiple assessments and specialized equipment to rule out other illnesses, as well as genetic tests to find variants that cause the disorder.

"Our findings underscore the importance of targeted genetic testing and closer partnerships with physicians in regions where this variant is more common," says Dr. Shapiro. "We encourage clinicians in these areas to refer patients with unexplained chronic respiratory symptoms for PCD evaluation. This will allow us to provide accurate diagnosis and appropriate care, better understand how this rare variant behaves across the population and uncover the mechanisms underlying milder forms of PCDinsights that will ultimately guide the development of better therapies."

More information: Marie-Helene Bourassa et al, ODAD4-Related Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia: Report of Five Cases and a Founder Variant in Quebec, Cells (2025). DOI: 10.3390/cells14181460
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:

In normal flies (left), the axons of a specific type of olfactory receptor neurons (green) do not connect with dendrites of another type of projection neurons (magenta). In the rewired flies (right), green axons are retargeted to match part of the magenta dendrites. Credit: Cheng Lyu

How the brain gets wired up matters. Consider the neurons involved in the sense of smell. Hook them up wrong, and suddenly turpentine might smell like a lovely chianti.

Yet how our developing brains get the wiring right and keep us out of trouble remains unclear. Without that knowledge, it's hard to understand how the brain forms the circuits that drive behavior.

Now, Wu Tsai Neuro scientists have taken major steps toward a deeper understanding of the brain's wiring system. In two papers published in the journal Nature, researchers in the lab of neurobiologist Liqun Luothe Ann and Bill Swindells Professor in the School of Humanities and Sciences and a professor of biologyfirst probed the forces underlying neuron wiring in brain regions responsible for fruit flies' sense of smell. Then, they showed they could rewire those systems to change flies' behavior.

"As Richard Feynman said, 'What I cannot create, I do not understand,'" said postdoctoral fellow Cheng Lyu, who led the work with graduate student Zhuoran Li. "Now that we've done this, we are one step closer to understanding the whole system."

An old puzzle

Neuroscientists have figured out a lot about how neurons form synaptic links to build functional neural circuits, and new discoveries keep coming.

But how neurons find the correct partners to link up with in the first placesometimes over impressive distanceshas been a bit harder to figure out.

It's a complicated task. Even in the brain of a tiny insect, each region contains thousands of neurons in dozens of varieties. If neurons don't match up in sensible ways, circuits may not form as expectedand the brain might not work as expected either.

In the fruit fly olfactory circuit, for example, there are about 50 different types of neurons that receive smell signals from the antennae, and another 50 or so types that send those signals into the brain. If those don't get paired up in the usual way, a fruit fly might go in search of wet concrete when it should instead hunt down some tasty bananas to chew on.

More than six decades ago, neurobiologist Roger Sperry proposed a solution to the puzzle: Neurons might come with chemical tagsmolecules that are expressed on the surface of cells that would help one another sniff out their matches.

That hypothesis turns out to be largely correct, albeit incomplete. There are so many neurons in the brain that the relatively small number of chemical tags researchers have discovered aren't enough to solve the matching problem.

Earlier this year, Luo, Lyu, Li, and other members of Luo's lab found one way neurons simplify the problem. To sniff out potential partners, neurons extend their axons, the long branches that send signals to downstream neurons. Writing in Science, the Luo lab showed that those axons follow predetermined paths rather than search an entire three-dimensional brain region.

That narrows the possibilities considerably, Luo said, but still doesn't eliminate the problem, said Luo. Even with chemical tags and smaller search spaces, each neuron will still encounter a large handful of others it could match with.

A neuron's gag reflex

In the first of the two new papers, Li and her lab-mates explored whether the nature of the chemical tags themselves might address the remaining issues.

Sperry's original hypothesis, Li said, involved what are called "attractive" chemical tags. In that case, a neuron's axon grows toward other neurons with matching tags.

But there's another possibility: repulsion. Previous research has shown that both attraction and repulsion help determine the search paths axons take. There is evidence that repulsive chemical tags play a role in other wiring processesfor example, keeping a neuron from forming synapses with itself.

Whether repulsion played an important role in the final stages of synaptic partner matching was less clear, so Li set out to find some repulsive tags. Li and the lab focused on two kinds of olfactory neurons that sense different smells. Crucially, those two have the same attractive chemical tags, meaning that other neurons would not be able to distinguish them using attraction alone.

Drawing on a single-cell RNA sequencing databasebuilt as part of the Neuro-Omics Initiative, a 2018 Wu Tsai Neuro Big Ideas projectLi and colleagues identified three genes that produce previously unknown chemical tags. When the team knocked out those genes, brain circuits ended up cross-wired: Axons that ordinarily linked only to one of the two neuron types ended up wired to both. That suggests that the new tags repelled certain kinds of neurons, Li said.

Creating is understanding

To check whether the group really understood the role of attraction and repulsion in synaptic partner matching, however, the team decided they needed to show they could use their knowledge to control how olfactory circuits in the fruit fly brain formed.

In the second Nature paper, Lyu and the team did exactly that. By changing how much different genes were expressed, they manipulated a specific type of olfactory receptor neuron in three ways: increasing repulsion between usual neuron partners, decreasing repulsion between new partners, and increasing attraction between new partners.

Lyu and colleagues demonstrated that these changes physically rewired fruit flies' brain circuits, and also that this rewiring changed flies' behavior. Ordinarily, the receptor neuron the team studied plays a role in mating behaviorin particular, it discourages male flies from trying to mate with other males.

Rewired male flies, however, attempted to court both male and female partners. Male flies chased other males, vibrated their wings to produce courtship songs, and showed other signs of attempted mating.

Still more to learn

The results are significant steps toward figuring out how brain circuits form, Luo said. Having shown it's possible to control which neurons will link up with each other and subsequent behavior means that they know in detail how neurons form the links that underlie brain circuits.

At least they know how that works in the fruit fly olfactory system. Now, they need to study how other types of neurons wire up elsewhere in the fly olfactory system and throughout the fly brain. The team is also curious to see how the wiring principles they've discovered play out in other animals, such as mice.

"This is an important milestone in one part of one circuit," Luo said of the new paper. "Now, the question is, 'Does this generalize?'"

More information: Zhuoran Li et al, Repulsions instruct synaptic partner matching in an olfactory circuit, Nature (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-025-09768-4 Cheng Lyu et al, Rewiring an olfactory circuit by altering cell-surface combinatorial code, Nature (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-025-09769-3 Journal information: Science , Nature
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 Strathclyde, Glasgow

A pioneering interdisciplinary study has shown that how young children play a simple iPad game could support early identification of autism.

Led by researchers at the University of Strathclyde, the study, "Motor organization of social play in children with autism," published in Journal of the Royal Society Interface, is believed to be the first in the world to combine methods from satellite communications with child psychology to analyze patterns in children's play.

Play patterns

The international team developed a digital food sharing game to examine play patterns in 878 children aged from 2.5 to 6 years old. This included 372 diagnosed with autism, 64 diagnosed with other neurodevelopmental conditions and 441 without a neurodevelopmental diagnosis.

The children were encouraged to drag four pieces of food from a serving area to deliver them to a set of four expectant children to trigger feeding animations and an audible celebration. All the children had their swipes tracked.

Researchers discovered that children with autism often developed a distinct strategy from other children, using a "two-step" pattern of food movement followed by distribution, in stark contrast to their peers, who developed an integrated and direct strategy of moving one item of food to one plate.

Support needs

The study found this previously unseen indirect strategy became prominent with age among children with autism, highlighting a developmental divergence in motor organization. It suggests that how children physically execute actions plays a key role in autistic play and development.

Researchers in this novel collaboration between the Laboratory for Innovation in Autism at Strathclyde and University's Applied Space Technology Laboratory, say this has implications for early detection, as well as understanding the developmental trajectory of autism and the additional support needs of children.

Lead author Dr. Ruaridh Clark from the University of Strathclyde, who has a background in the development of space systems and network research, said, "The implication of these differences are profound, both for their diagnostic potential and in shaping early-years support for children with autism."

A company has been launched to put this technology into the hands of teachers for accessible, scalable autism assessment. Evermind AI will help with neurodivergence identification and support. The analysis produced is based on the same game and the same system but with artificial intelligence technology. The solution is being piloted across UK schools to help teachers understand learner diversity and give every child the best possible educational experience.

Project co-lead Jonathan Delafield-Butt, Professor of Child Neurodevelopment and Autism and Director of the Laboratory for Innovation in Autism at Strathclyde, said, "We applied analysis techniques originally developed for satellite networks to understand how children coordinate their actions in play. It reveals a fundamental difference in how autistic children perceive and engage with the world."

He said that bridging child psychology with space network analysis was time-consuming, but the rewards were considerable, and added, "The research points to the potential of digital play-based tools to support earlier diagnosis and tailored interventions and also involved the Gillberg Neuropsychiatry Center and the Universities of Aberdeen, Glasgow, Gothenburg and Warsaw."

Researchers say next steps will be to explore motor organization in other play scenarios, with the ideas and concepts from the paper also feeding into another space sector project being led at Strathclyde.

More information: Ruaridh Clark et al, Motor organisation of social play in children with autism, Journal of The Royal Society Interface (2025). DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2025.0302 Journal information: Journal of the Royal Society Interface
In a case of high-tech identity theft, a Vakola-based security guard who earns Rs 3 lakh per year was slapped with a colossal income tax liability via a phantom company that used his PAN card to conduct business worth over Rs 2.2 crore.



The victim, Austin Xavier Froes (31), who works as a security guard for an international shipping company, lodged a complaint with the Vakola Police Station after receiving two notices from the Income Tax (IT) Department this year.



According to the FIR, the fraud was executed sometime between 2019 and 2022.



An unidentified fraudster allegedly hijacked Austins PAN card number to establish a fictitious export firm named Graphical Trading Company. The company was then given a GST number and allegedly used to run a cloth export business.



The ghost company showed transactions totalling a colossal Rs 2,20,36,436 (Two crore twenty lakh thirty-six thousand four hundred and thirty-six rupees).



This massive turnover is why the IT Department was chasing Austin, demanding he pay the income tax incurred by the fraudsters.



Austin, whose salary supports his family, initially ignored the first tax notice that arrived in April this year. It was only after a second, more urgent notice arrived in July 2025 that his wife, Maria, took the matter to a chartered accountant.



A senior official at the Income Tax Office in Lalbaug confirmed the notices were genuine and that Austin was on the hook for the tax on the Rs 2.2 crore transaction. However, a crucial clue gives Austin a fighting chance: while the PAN number used by the fraudsters was his, the investigation found that the photo and signature on the fraudulent PAN card were completely different from his own.



The Vakola Police have registered an FIR against the Unknown Accused Person under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, including cheating, forgery, and using a forged document.



The search is now on for the identity thief who imposed a lifetime of financial ruin onto a security guard for tax evasion.




The dispute over the Will of late industrialist Sunjay Kapur intensified in the Delhi High Court, where the appointed executor, Shradha Suri, accused the challengers of relying on bias and guesswork. One of the arguments raised by the challengers  that a wife should not inherit her husbands personal assets  was firmly criticised in court as a retrograde and outdated view. Suris lawyer argued that the Will clearly reflects Kapurs intentions, supported by emails exchanged around the same time, while those contesting the Will questioned its authenticity and the one-month gap between its signing and registration.



Defence argues intent, timing



During Thursdays hearing, Suris lawyer, Senior Advocate Anuradha Dutt, firmly rejected allegations aimed at her client. She said the signatures on the Will are not disputed and claimed that accusations of manipulation or hiding facts have no evidence behind them.



Suri and Kapur have a long-standing family connection, as both had known each other since childhood, since their parents shared a close friendship. They later became second-generation entrepreneurs in automotive components industry and remained part of the same business circle.



A major point of debate was the timeline of how the Will surfaced. Dutt explained that on June 14, Suri noticed that the wrong document had been circulated and immediately provided the correct one. Between June 15 and June 24, she requested a certified copy and then collected the original from the custodian, which the defence says shows transparency. Dutt argued that learning about being named executor only after someones death and then seeking legal advice is normal and not suspicious. The defence also said the challengers delayed raising objections. The Will was read out on July 30 in front of the plaintiffs own senior lawyer, who remembered key details such as the signing date and witness names. Yet no concerns were raised until August 22, almost a month later, a delay the defence says weakens any claim of irregularity.



Plaintiffs raise doubts over shifting accounts



She had earlier said she first received the Will from Priya Kapur but now says it was one Dinesh Agarwal who sent it on June 14, initially attaching the wrong document before sending what he claimed was the real Will later that day.



Suris admission that she did not know she had been named executor has also drawn scrutiny, while Priya Kapurs statement that she is merely a nominee appears to contradict the Will. Suris request for legal protection before acting as executor is being cited as another sign of uncertainty.



The defence has pushed back, saying Sunjay Kapur had every right to name his wife as nominee on his personal accounts and arguing that assuming a wife should not inherit her husbands assets reflects a biased, outdated mindset. To support their case, they walked the court through email exchanges from June 14 to June 24, which they say strengthen their timeline. They also defended the requirement of a non-disclosure agreement before allowing inspection of the Will  a step the court itself later endorsed as reasonable. Dutt concluded by saying none of the allegations raised meet the legal threshold required to doubt a Will and urged the court to rely on evidence rather than speculation. The case will next be heard on December 1, 2025.




Chinese Camp, CA  A business and a charity joined forces to bring some Thanksgiving cheer to the Chinese Camp 6-5 fire victims who suffered loss from the flames.

The Chinese Camp store and Nancys Hope put on a Thanksgiving feast that included stuffing and all the trimmings, plus a twist of homemade Thai food for the tasting. The invitation posted on social media noted, Come celebrate community and thankful hearts. Lets fill the day with love, laughter, and delicious food.

The meal was held at the store located at 13750 Highways 120 and 49 in Chinese Camp on Thanksgiving Day. Those impacted were told to bring a dish or simply come to enjoy a warm meal, and there was plenty of food and thanks to go around. The dinner ran from noon until 7 p.m., with to-go meals also arranged for those who could not attend, as organizers wanted to make sure fire victims enjoyed a tasty Thanksgiving meal.

The blaze broke out on September 2, 2025, when rolling thunderstorms produced lightning across multiple locations in Calaveras and Tuolumne County, San Joaquin County, and Stanislaus County. The final two fires to reach containment were the 6-5 (6,935 acres) and 6-2 (1,025 acres) fires near Lake Don Pedro on September 13, 2025, as reported here. The blaze forced hundreds from their homes, prompting evacuations. The TCU Complex Fires destroyed 95 structures; 45 were homes, mostly around Chinese Camp, and damaged seven more.
President Donald Trump says he wants to permanently pause migration from poorer nations and is promising to seek to expel millions of immigrants from the United States by revoking their legal status. He is blaming immigrants for problems from crime to housing shortages as part of social dysfunction in America and demanding REVERSE MIGRATION.

His most severe social media post against immigration since returning to the Oval Office in January came after two National Guard members were shot while patrolling the streets of the nations capital under his orders. One died, and the other is in critical condition.

Since the shooting not far from the White House, administration officials have pledged to reexamine millions of legal immigrants, building on a 10-month campaign to reduce the immigrant population. In a lengthy social media post late Thursday, the Republican president asserted that millions of people born outside the U.S. and now living in the country bore a large share of the blame for Americas societal ills.

Heres the latest:

Mayor of Bellingham, Washington, says theres no excuse for the heinous, violent attack

Shooting suspect Rahmanullah Lakanwal was living with his family in Bellingham, authorities said.

The actions dont represent Bellinghams values. They dont reflect the values of either Washington, Mayor Kim Lund said in a written statement. They dont represent what makes our communities great.

In an email to The Associated Press, Bellingham police Lt. Claudia Murphy did not address whether the department had any past encounters with Lakanwal.

The chief said the department would assist the FBI if help is needed.

Shooting suspect briefly delivered packages for Amazon Flex

Amazon Flex allows people to use their own cars to deliver packages to customers. Rahmanullah Lakanwal worked as an independent contractor for the company from the end of July to the end of August and hadnt been active since, a company spokesperson told The Associated Press.

Charges against Lakanwal were upgraded to first-degree murder after one of the soldiers died, federal authorities said Friday. Lakanwal served in a CIA-backed Afghan army unit before immigrating to the U.S. in 2021.

He lived in Bellingham, Washington, and drove across the country before Wednesdays shooting, authorities said.

One neighbor said the suspect disappeared two weeks ago

Mohammad Sherzad, a neighbor of Lakanwals in Bellingham, Washington, told The Associated Press in a phone interview Friday that Lakanwal was polite, quiet and spoke very little English.

Sherzad said he attended the same mosque as Lakanwal and had heard from other members that Lakanwal was struggling to find work. Some of his children attended the same school as Lakanwals children, Sherzad said.

He was so quiet and the kids were so polite, they were so playful. But we didnt see anything bad about him. He was looking OK, Sherzad said. Sherzad said Lakanwal disappeared about two weeks ago.

What to know about Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, the slain National Guard member

Beckstrom enlisted in 2023, the same year she graduated high school, and served with distinction as a military police officer with the 863rd Military Police Company, the West Virginia National Guard said in a statement.

She exemplified leadership, dedication, and professionalism, the statement said, adding that Beckstrom volunteered to serve as part of Operation D.C. Safe and Beautiful, helping to ensure the safety and security of our nations capital.

Trump called Beckstrom an incredible person, outstanding in every single way.

More National Guard troops on the way to DC

Soon after Wednesdays shooting, Trump said he would send 500 more National Guard troops to Washington, D.C. Its not clear where the additional troops would come from.

As of early November, the D.C. National Guard had the largest number on the ground, with 949 members. In addition to West Virginia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Ohio, South Carolina, Georgia and Alabama also had forces in the capital early this month.

A federal judge last week ordered an end to the Guard deployment but also put her order on hold for 21 days to allow the Trump administration time to either remove the troops or appeal.

How the attack unfolded

Video reviewed by investigators showed Lakanwal came around the corner on Wednesday afternoon and immediately started firing at the troops, according to Jeffery Carroll, an executive assistant D.C. police chief.

Troops ran over and held down the shooter, Carroll said, and he was taken into custody. Authorities believe he was the only gunman.

Carroll said that it was not clear whether one of the Guard members or a law enforcement officer shot Lakanwal.

The suspects wounds were not believed to be life-threatening, one of the officials said.

Who are the two Guard members who were shot?

Beckstrom, 20, and Wolfe, 24, were deployed with the West Virginia National Guard to the nations capital as part of Trumps crime-fighting mission that involved taking over the local police department. There were nearly 2,200 Guard members from various states in D.C. for the mission.

Both Beckstrom and Wolfe were on orders in Washington since August, according to the West Virginia National Guard.

Beckstrom, a resident of Summersville, West Virginia, had volunteered for the operation to ensure the safety and security of our nations capital, the West Virginia National Guard said in a statement. She had graduated from Webster County High School in June 2023 and enlisted with the guard that month, serving with distinction as a military police officer, the guard said.

Wolfe, who is from Martinsburg, West Virginia, entered service in February 2019. He had graduated from Musselman High School as part of the Class of 2019, said Karla Troppman, a spokesperson for Berkeley County Schools in West Virginia.

Wolfe remains in very critical condition, West Virginia governor says

Gov. Patrick Morrisey issued a proclamation Friday requesting that all West Virginians observe a statewide moment of silence or prayer at 2:15 p.m. to honor Wolfe and Beckstrom.

He also ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in recognition of Beckstroms death.

Wolfe serves with the 167th Force Support Squadron and Beckstrom served with the 863rd Military Police Company, the governor said in a news release.

These two West Virginia heroes were serving our country and protecting our nations capital when they were maliciously attacked, Morrisey said. Their courage and commitment to duty represent the very best of our state.

Suspect faces more charges, Pirro says

In an interview on Fox News, Pirro said there are many charges to come beyond the upgraded murder charge.

She said her heart goes out to the family of Beckstrom, who volunteered to serve and ended up being shot ambush-style on the cold streets of Washington, D.C., by an individual who will now be charged with murder in the first degree.

Pirro declined to discuss the suspects motive, saying officials have been working around the clock on that question. Investigators are continuing to execute warrants in the state of Washington and other parts of the country, she said.

She said Wolfe remains in critical condition and that we still have hope.

We are doing everything we can to assist his family and to make sure that they have everything they need during this difficult time for them, Pirro said.

Who is the suspected shooter?

Lakanwal, 29, had worked in a special CIA-backed Afghan Army unit before emigrating from Afghanistan, according to two sources who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the situation, and #AfghanEvac, a group that helps resettle Afghans who assisted the U.S. during the two-decade war.

He entered the U.S. in 2021 through Operation Allies Welcome, a Biden administration program that evacuated and resettled tens of thousands of Afghans after the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from the country, officials said.

Lakanwal applied for asylum during the Biden administration, but his asylum was approved under the Trump administration, #AfghanEvac said in a statement.

Supporters have said there was extensive vetting and the program offered a lifeline to people at risk of Taliban reprisals.

Suspect in shooting of National Guard members now facing a first-degree murder charge

Jeanine Pirro, the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, announced Friday that charges against a man who authorities say shot two National Guard members have been upgraded to first-degree murder.

The announcement comes after the death of one of the soldiers.

Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, were hospitalized in critical condition after Wednesday afternoons shooting and Trump announced Thursday evening that Beckstrom had died.

As of Thursday morning, Rahmanullah Lakanwal faced charges of assault with intent to kill while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, but Pirro suggested that the charges would be upgraded to first-degree murder if the victims did not survive.

Pirro said that Lakanwal drove across the country to launch an ambush-style attack with a .357 Smith & Wesson revolver. He initially faced charges of assault with intent to kill while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence. Pirro said that its too soon to say what the suspects motives were.

Refugee groups worry about backlash after shooting of National Guard soldiers in DC

People who work with refugees are worried that those who fled dangerous situations to start again in America will face backlash after authorities say an Afghan national shot two National Guard soldiers this week, killing one of them.

Many Afghans living in the U.S. are afraid to leave their houses, fearing theyll be swept up by immigration officials or attacked with hate speech, said Shawn VanDiver, president of the San Diego-based group #AfghanEvac, a group that helps resettle Afghans who assisted the U.S. during the two-decade war.

Theyre terrified. Its insane, VanDiver told The Associated Press Thursday. People are acting xenophobic because of one deranged man. He doesnt represent all Afghans. He represents himself.

 Read about what groups are saying in the shootings aftermath

Catch up on the latest headlines

AP Morning Wire curates the most important stories and sends them straight to your inbox. Sign up for the free newsletter here.

 Trump says one of the two West Virginia National Guard members shot near White House has died

 What we do and dont know about the shooting of 2 National Guard members in DC

 Trump criticizes the program that brought Afghan refugees to the U.S. who fought the Taliban  Refugee groups worry about backlash after shooting of National Guard soldiers in DC  A look at the National Guard presence since Trump sent troops to Washington in August  2 Virginia brothers allegedly plotted to kill ICE agents, Homeland Security says  Court transcripts show Border Patrol official Greg Bovino dodging questions about use of force

 Federal judge expands access to bond hearings for detained immigrants nationwide

By The Associated Press
Japan blasted for continuing to defend remarks

08:45, November 28, 2025 By ZHANG YUNBI ( Chinadaily.com.cn

While China and the United States revisited their World War II legacy and talked about the Taiwan question in the latest heads-of-state phone conversation, Japan  both a defeated country and a perpetrator state in the war  took more actions on Tuesday to defend Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's recent provocative comments on Taiwan.

On Monday evening, President Xi Jinping spoke with US President Donald Trump over the phone, outlined China's principled position on the Taiwan question, and underscored that Taiwan's return to China "is an integral part of the postwar international order".

In response, Trump said the US understands the importance of the Taiwan question to China.

On Tuesday, Trump held a phone conversation with Takaichi.

When Takaichi was asked whether her remarks in parliament about Taiwan were raised in the talks on Tuesday morning with Trump, she said she will "refrain from elaborating on the details", according to Japan's public broadcaster NHK.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said on Tuesday that the phone call between Xi and Trump was initiated by the US, and the talks' atmosphere was "positive, cordial and constructive".

"Communication between the two heads of state on issues of common concern is crucial for the stable development of China-US relations," she added.

Yang Bojiang, director-general of the Institute of Japanese Studies at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said, "Japan's painful lesson from its aggression and its postwar economic miracle has proved that it serves the resource-lacking country's interests to subscribe to friendly cooperation with China, and peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific."

Tokyo should not pin its hope on "a contingency in Taiwan" and on containing its neighbors, not to mention military provocation or threats of war, Yang added.

Tokyo has repeatedly refused Beijing's demand to retract Takaichi's comments by saying that her words align with the "consistent position" of the Japanese government.

Kazuyuki Yamazaki, Japan's ambassador to the United Nations, sent a letter to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday, dismissing China's request to withdraw Takaichi's remarks.

In Tokyo, Japanese Vice-Foreign Minister Takehiro Funakoshi held talks with Chinese Ambassador to Japan Wu Jianghao on Tuesday.

Earlier on Tuesday morning, the Japanese Cabinet made a decision to adopt a written response prepared for a Japanese lawmaker's question about Takaichi's Taiwan remarks, saying that Takaichi's words "do not change the government's consistent position".

"We do not consider it necessary to review or reexamine (the remarks)," Japan's Kyodo News Agency quoted the Cabinet decision as saying.

Liu Jiangyong, a professor of Japanese studies at Tsinghua University, said, "Regrettably, we have not seen Tokyo, either in theory or in practice, truly learn from lessons in history or genuinely abide by international law, international rules and the international order."

Mao, the Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, called on Tokyo to specify what its "consistent position" is.

She said Japan has never addressed the core of the issue, and "is deliberately evading China's call for it to retract the erroneous remarks" and attempting to gloss it over.

"We could not but question whether the Japanese side does have the sincerity and whether it will take action to do serious soul-searching and correct its wrongdoing," she added.

As some voices in Japan said the People's Republic of China is not entitled to discuss the Taiwan question, as "it was the Republic of China, not the PRC, that accepted Japan's surrender" in 1945, Mao said that the sovereignty and inherent territorial boundaries of China "stayed unchanged" when the PRC government replaced the ROC government in 1949.

In addition, the China-Japan Joint Statement in 1972 clearly stated that the government of Japan recognizes the government of the PRC as the sole legal government of China, she emphasized.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Du Mingming)
MINNEAPOLIS (AP)  The production lines at Indeed Brewing moved quickly, the cans filling not with beer, but with THC-infused seltzer. The product, which features the compound that gets cannabis users high, has been a lifeline at Indeed and other craft breweries as alcohol sales have fallen in recent years.

But that boom looks set to come to a crashing halt. Buried in the bill that ended the federal government shutdown this month was a provision to ban those drinks, along with other impairing beverages and snacks made from hemp, which have proliferated across the country in recent years. Now the $24 billion hemp industry is scrambling to save itself before the provision takes effect in November 2026.

Its a big deal, said Ryan Bandy, Indeeds chief business officer. It would be a mess for our breweries, for our industry, and obviously for a lot of people who like these things.

Heres what to know about the looming ban on impairing products derived from hemp.

Congress opened the door in 2018

Marijuana and hemp are the same species. Marijuana is cultivated for high levels of THC in its flowers. Low-THC hemp is grown for its sturdy fibers, food or wellness products. Rope, not dope was long the motto of farmers who supported legalizing hemp.

After states began legalizing marijuana for adult use over a decade ago, hemp advocates saw an opening at the federal level. As part of the 2018 farm bill, Congress legalized the cultivation of industrial hemp to give farmers, including in Republican Sen. Mitch McConnells home state of Kentucky, a new cash crop.

But the way that law defined hemp  as having less than 0.3% of a specific type of THC, called delta-9  opened a huge loophole. Beverages or bags of snacks could meet that threshold and still contain more than enough THC to get people high. Businesses could further exploit the law by extracting a non-impairing compound, called CBD, and chemically changing it into other types of impairing THC, such as delta-8 or delta-10.

The result? Vape oil, gummy candies, chips, cookies, sodas and other unregulated, untested products laden with hemp-derived THC spread around the country. In many places, they have been available at gas stations or convenience stores, even to teens. In legal marijuana states, they undercut heavily taxed and regulated products. In others, they evaded the prohibition on recreational use of weed.

Some states, including Indiana, have reported spikes in calls to poison-control centers for pediatric exposure to THC.

A patchwork of state regulations

Dozens of states have since taken steps to regulate or ban impairing hemp products. In October, Democratic California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a bill banning the sale of intoxicating hemp products outside the states legal marijuana system.

Texas, which has a massive hemp market, is moving to regulate sales of impairing hemp, such as by restricting them to those over 21. In Nebraska, lawmakers have instead considered a bill to criminalize the sale and possession of products containing hemp-based THC.

Washington state adopted a program to regulate hemp growing. But the number of licensed growers has cratered since the state banned intoxicating hemp products outside of the regulated cannabis market in 2023. Five years ago, there were 220, said Trecia Ehrlich, cannabis program manager with the state agriculture department. This year, there were 42, and with a federal ban looming, she expects that number to drop by about half next year.

Minnesota made infused beverages and foods legal in 2022 for people 21 and older. The products, which must be derived from legally certified hemp, have become so popular that Target is now offering THC drinks at some of its stores in the state.

Theyve also been a boon to liquor stores and to small Minneapolis brewers like Indeed, where THC drinks make up close to one-quarter of the business, Bandy said. At Bauhaus Brew Labs, a few blocks away, THC drinks account for 26% of their revenues from distributed products and 11% of revenues at the brewerys taproom.

A powerful senator moves to close the loophole

None of that was what McConnell intended when he helped craft the 2018 farm bill. He finally closed the loophole by inserting a federal hemp THC ban in the measure to end the 43-day federal government shutdown, approved by the Senate on Nov. 10.

It will keep these dangerous products out of the hands of children, while preserving the hemp industry for farmers, McConnell said. Industrial hemp and CBD will remain legal for industrial applications.

Some in the legal marijuana industry celebrated, as the ban would end what they consider unfair competition.

They were joined by prohibitionists. Theres really no good argument for allowing these dangerous products to be sold in our country, said Kevin Sabet, president and CEO of Smart Approaches to Marijuana.

But the ban doesnt take effect for a year. That has given the industry hope that there is still time to pass regulations that will improve the hemp THC industry  such as by banning synthetically derived THC, requiring age restrictions on sales, and prohibiting marketing to children  rather than eradicate it.

We are very hopeful that cooler heads will prevail, said Jonathan Miller, general counsel of the industry group U.S. Hemp Roundtable. If they really thought there was a health emergency, there would be no year-long period.

The federal ban would jeopardize more than 300,000 jobs while costing states $1.5 billion in lost tax money, the group says.

Drew Hurst, president and chief operating officer at Bauhaus Brew Labs, has no doubt his company would be among the casualties.

If this goes through as written currently, I dont see a way at all that Bauhaus could stay in business, Hurst said.

What comes next?

A number of lawmakers say they will push for regulation of the hemp THC industry. Kentuckys second senator, Republican Rand Paul, introduced an amendment to strip McConnells hemp language from the crucial government-funding bill, but it failed on a lopsided 76-24 vote.

Minnesotas Democratic U.S. senators, Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, are among those strategizing to save the industry. Klobuchar noted at a recent news conference that the ban was inserted into the unrelated shutdown bill without a hearing. She suggested the federal government could allow states to develop their own regulatory frameworks, or that Minnesotas strict regulations could be used as a national model.

Kevin Hilliard, co-founder of Insight Brewing in Minneapolis, said the hemp industry needs a solution before planting time next spring.

If a farmer has uncertainty, theyre not going to plant, Hilliard said.

___

Johnson reported from Seattle. AP congressional reporter Kevin Freking contributed from Washington, D.C.

By STEVE KARNOWSKI and GENE JOHNSON

Associated Press
BANGKOK (AP)  Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko arrived in Myanmar on a goodwill visit, state media reported Friday, becoming only the second foreign leader to visit the Southeast Asian country since it came under military rule in 2021.

The visit comes just a month before an election in Myanmar that has been criticized as neither free nor fair. Lukashenkos visit is seen by critics as giving the appearance of support to the polls.

Since Myanmars military takeover, Belarus has been a major supporter and supplier of its government, along with China and Russia. It is one of only a few countries that have been visited by Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, the head of Myanmars military government, who traveled there in March and June. Like Myanmar, the government of Belarus is widely seen as authoritarian.

Myanmars military leaders have been shunned and sanctioned by many Western nations for ousting the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in February 2021, and for committing major human rights violations in trying to crush the resistance to army rule.

The only other foreign leader to visit Myanmar since 2021 was Cambodias then-Prime Minister Hun Sen, in his capacity as chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations in 2022.

A report in the state-run Global New Light of Myanmar newspaper said Lukashenkos Thursday night arrival at the military airport in the capital Naypyitaw saw him welcomed by Myanmars Prime Minister Nyo Saw and other Cabinet members with full state honors and cultural performers.

Myanmar state television MRTV reported that Lukashenko held talks Friday with Min Aung Hlaing and other top officials, exchanging views on bilateral relations, electoral processes and the dispatch of Belarusian election observers, as well as enhancing cooperation in all sectors, including military.

The report said they signed memorandums of understanding and contracts for cooperation in sectors including science, technology and economics.

During Min Aung Hlaings visit in March to Belarus, Lukashenko pledged to support the military-organized election and promised to send observers.

Critics say the planned election is a sham to normalize the militarys grip, and several opposition groups, including armed resistance forces, have said they will try to derail the polls.

Justice For Myanmar, a rights advocacy group that seeks to expose the financial underpinning of the military, said in a statement released Thursday that Belarus has provided Myanmars military with arms, equipment and training that builds the armys technical capacity and domestic arms industry.

Transfers from Belarus include a Myanmar air defense operational command system, radar technology and ground-based missile systems, the groups statement said.
ANKARA, Turkey (AP)  Two tankers were struck and caught fire in the Black Sea, prompting rescue operations, Turkish authorities reported Friday. Crew members on board both vessels were reported to be safe.

The OpenSanctions database, which tracks people or organizations involved in sanctions evasion, described the vessels as shadow fleet  or vessels used to evade sanctions imposed on Russia following its 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

Rescue teams on the scene suspect the tankers were subjected to an external interference, Transport and Infrastructure Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu said.

Haberturk television reported that the tankers may have been attacked by drones that operate on the waters surface.

Turkeys Directorate General of Maritime Affairs said the first tanker, the Gambian-flagged Kairos, caught fire in the Black Sea, approximately 28 miles (45 kilometers) off the coast of Turkeys Kocaeli province. It blamed the fire on an external impact, without providing details.

The Kairos was sailing empty toward Russias Novorossiysk port, it said.

Within an hour, the maritime authority reported that a second tanker, Virat, was struck while sailing in the Black Sea about 35 nautical miles off the Turkish coast. It did not provide further details.

Rescue teams were dispatched to the scene to provide assistance. All 20 crew members aboard the Virat were safe, although heavy smoke was reported in the engine room, the maritime authority said.

All 25 crew aboard the Kairos were safely evacuated, Kocaeli Gov. Ilhami Aktas said, adding that efforts to extinguish the fire were continuing.

A large fire is taking place, he said.

He would not comment on what caused the fires  including whether they may have been struck by sea mines  but said the authorities would issue a clearer statement once their inquiries are completed.

There is no confirmed information yet, but our colleagues who first went to carry out the rescue, believe there was an external intervention, Uraloglu, the transport minister told Haberturk. He said both tankers were empty.

The maritime authority posted distant shots of smoke rising from the area where the Kairos caught fire.

The VesselFinder website showed the Virat was anchored north of the Bosphorus, not far from its current position, on Nov. 4. The Kairos last position was on Nov. 26 south of the Dardanelles Strait connecting the Aegean Sea and the Sea of Marmara.

The United States sanctioned the Virat in January this year, followed by the European Union, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and Canada, according to the OpenSanctions website. Similarly, the EU sanctioned the Kairos in July this year, followed by the U.K. and Switzerland.

The shadow tanker fleet continues to provide multibillion-dollar revenues for the Kremlin bypassing sanctions, disguising its activities under the flags of third countries, using complex schemes to conceal owners and poses significant environmental threats, OpenSanctions says in its website entry on the Kairos.

The Virat, built in 2018, uses irregular and high-risk shipping practices and has previously sailed under the flags of Barbados, Comoros, Liberia and Panama, OpenSanctions says.

The Kairos, formerly flagged as Panamanian, Greek and Liberian, was built in 2002.

Ukraines military intelligence service, the GUR, says on its website that both ships visit Russian ports and have a history of shutting off their automatic identification systems, which transmit a ships position.

They have also docked at ports in China, Turkey and India, among other locations.

By SUZAN FRASER and ANDREW WILKS

Associated Press
Women named Adairia are often perceived as possessing a natural strength and resilience reminiscent of the oak tree from which their name derives. They tend to be grounded individuals with deep roots in their principles and values, yet adaptable like water flowing through a ford. This combination creates a personality that is both steadfast and flexible, able to withstand challenges while navigating life's changes with grace. Their connection to natural elements in their name often manifests as a practical wisdom and an ability to provide stability during turbulent times.



Adairias typically exhibit a nurturing quality combined with quiet authority, much like an ancient oak providing shelter and strength. They are often drawn to nature, conservation, or heritage preservation, feeling a strong sense of responsibility toward protecting traditions and environments. Their personality balances the solid, enduring qualities of the oak with the transitional, flowing nature of water crossings, making them excellent mediators and community builders who can bridge different perspectives while maintaining core integrity. This duality allows them to be both anchors in storms and guides through transitions.
Symbolically, Ata represents the fundamental concept of duality and complementary balance, embodying the idea that opposing forces can create harmony when properly integrated. This twin symbolism extends to representing the connection between past and future, tradition and innovation, making it a name that speaks to continuity and evolution. In spiritual contexts, Ata often symbolizes the bridge between human and divine, or the balance between worldly responsibilities and spiritual aspirations. The name carries connotations of heritage and legacy, representing the transmission of wisdom, values, and cultural identity across generations. This rich symbolic tapestry makes Ata a name that encompasses both the practical and philosophical dimensions of human existence, serving as a reminder of the interconnectedness of all things and the importance of maintaining balance in one's life and relationships.
Women named Christal are often perceived as possessing a unique blend of spiritual depth and practical sensibility. They tend to be intuitive individuals with strong moral compasses, reflecting the Christian roots of their name, while also demonstrating the resilience and independence associated with Scottish heritage. Many Christals are known for their clarity of thought and purpose, much like the crystal their name references - able to see situations with transparency and honesty.



They often exhibit strong leadership qualities combined with compassionate understanding, making them natural mediators and trusted advisors in both personal and professional settings. The dual nature of the name - combining spiritual significance with earthly beauty - often manifests in individuals who balance idealism with practicality, faith with reason, and tradition with innovation. This balance allows them to navigate complex situations with grace and wisdom that others find both inspiring and reliable. Their personality typically includes a strong sense of responsibility toward others while maintaining clear personal boundaries and values.
Individuals named Danno are often perceived as community-oriented, practical, and grounded in their approach to life. They tend to exhibit strong collaborative skills and a natural ability to bring people together, reflecting the 'gathering' aspect of their name's meaning. These individuals typically demonstrate reliability, patience, and a methodical approach to problem-solving, much like the careful planning required in agricultural work. Their personality often blends traditional values with adaptive thinking, making them both respectful of heritage and open to innovation.



Danno-named individuals frequently show leadership qualities that emphasize service to the community rather than personal ambition. They are often seen as the glue that holds groups together, possessing excellent organizational skills and a calm, steady presence during challenging situations. Their grounded nature makes them excellent mediators and team players, while their connection to agricultural symbolism gives them an appreciation for growth, nurturing, and long-term planning in both personal and professional endeavors.
Women named Duci are typically perceived as warm, nurturing individuals with strong family values and deep cultural roots. They often possess a natural elegance and grace combined with practical wisdom, making them excellent caretakers and community builders. Their personality reflects the name's meaning of being a 'wealthy gift' through their generous spirit and ability to enrich the lives of those around them. Duci's tend to be creative and artistic, with a particular affinity for music, dance, or visual arts that connect them to Hungarian cultural traditions.



They are known for their resilience and adaptability, qualities that have been historically important in Hungarian society. While they value tradition, they also possess a modern sensibility that allows them to bridge generations and maintain relevance in contemporary contexts. Their strength lies in their ability to preserve cultural heritage while embracing positive change. Duci's often exhibit a quiet confidence and emotional intelligence that makes them natural peacemakers and cultural ambassadors within their communities.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Edwina emerged as a distinctly Christian feminine name during the Victorian era, created as the female equivalent of the Anglo-Saxon name Edwin, which means 'wealthy friend.' The name gained prominence in English-speaking Christian communities as part of the broader trend of creating feminine forms of traditional male names. Its Christian significance lies in its meaning of 'wealthy friend,' which aligns with Christian values of friendship, community, and spiritual richness rather than material wealth.



Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Edwina became associated with aristocratic and upper-class families in Britain, particularly through notable figures like Edwina Mountbatten, who served as the last Vicereine of India and was known for her humanitarian work. This connection to nobility and service reinforced the name's Christian associations with stewardship and using one's position for the benefit of others. The name also reflects the Victorian emphasis on creating feminine versions of established names while maintaining their dignified character and meaningful origins.
People named Elye are typically characterized by their deep sense of purpose and spiritual awareness. They often exhibit a quiet confidence that comes from strong internal values rather than external validation. Elyes tend to be natural leaders who inspire others through example rather than forceful direction, demonstrating patience and wisdom in their decision-making. Their introspective nature makes them excellent listeners and thoughtful advisors, though they may sometimes appear distant as they process information deeply. Emotionally, Elyes are often stable and resilient, able to weather challenges with remarkable composure. They value meaningful relationships over superficial connections and are fiercely loyal to those they trust. While they can be perfectionistic at times, their high standards usually apply more to themselves than to others, making them compassionate rather than judgmental companions.
Individuals named Lap are typically characterized by strong independence and self-reliance from an early age. They possess a natural inclination toward autonomy and often prefer to work through challenges on their own rather than seeking external assistance. This independence is complemented by remarkable determination and perseveranceonce they set their mind to a goal, they pursue it with unwavering focus and commitment. Their self-sufficient nature makes them excellent problem-solvers who trust their own judgment and capabilities.



While they value their independence, people named Lap are not necessarily isolated; they often form deep, meaningful relationships with those who respect their need for autonomy. They tend to be natural leaders who inspire others through their self-confidence and ability to stand firm in their convictions. Their independent streak is balanced by a strong sense of responsibility and loyalty to those they care about, creating a personality that combines self-reliance with meaningful connections. This balance allows them to maintain their autonomy while contributing positively to their communities and relationships.
Women named Lovisa typically exhibit a powerful combination of strength and sophistication that reflects their name's dual heritage as both 'famous warrior' and royal name. They tend to be natural leaders with strong moral compasses, possessing the courage to defend their beliefs while maintaining diplomatic grace. Lovisas often demonstrate remarkable resilience and determination, facing challenges with a composed confidence that inspires others. Their intellectual curiosity and appreciation for culture frequently make them patrons of the arts or advocates for education and social progress.



Beneath their strong exterior, Lovisas typically possess deep emotional intelligence and loyalty to those they care about. They balance their assertive nature with compassion, creating relationships built on mutual respect and trust. This multifaceted personality allows them to adapt to various situations while remaining authentic to their core values. The combination of warrior spirit and refined sensibility makes Lovisas particularly effective in leadership roles where both strength and subtlety are required, embodying the ideal of the modern Renaissance woman who excels in multiple domains.
In contemporary naming practices, Pepperell occupies a unique niche as a distinguished surname that has gained traction as an unconventional first name, particularly in New England and among families with historical connections to American colonial heritage. While it remains rare on national baby name charts, it has seen increased usage among parents seeking names with historical depth, aristocratic connotations, and distinctive character. The name appeals particularly to families valuing French-American cultural connections or those interested in names that tell a story of achievement and legacy. Its usage has expanded beyond its traditional geographic strongholds, appearing occasionally in birth announcements across the United States and even in Europe, where parents appreciate its Old World origins combined with New World success narrative. The continued existence of Pepperell, Massachusetts, and various Pepperell-branded products helps maintain the name's visibility in American culture.
Individuals named Renard are typically perceived as possessing a unique blend of intellectual sharpness and practical strength. They often exhibit natural leadership qualities combined with analytical thinking, making them excellent problem-solvers who can navigate complex situations with both wisdom and determination. Their inherent counsel-giving nature means they're often sought out for advice, and they typically approach challenges with strategic foresight rather than impulsive reactions.



Renards tend to be resilient and adaptable, capable of weathering difficulties while maintaining their core principles. They often display a certain cleverness or resourcefulness in their approach to life's challenges, reflecting the name's folkloric associations. While they can be strong-willed and determined, this is usually balanced by their capacity for thoughtful consideration and their ability to see multiple perspectives before making important decisions.
Individuals named Rowin are often perceived as passionate, creative, and determined. The name's association with the color red suggests fiery energy, enthusiasm, and strong emotions. Rowins tend to be natural leaders with a charismatic presence, often standing out in social situations. They typically possess a blend of traditional values and innovative thinking, making them adaptable yet grounded. Many Rowins demonstrate artistic talents or excel in fields requiring both creativity and practical application.



Their red-haired namesake suggests they may have strong convictions and the courage to defend their beliefs, while also showing warmth and loyalty to those they care about. This combination of traits often makes them memorable individuals who leave lasting impressions. Rowins are frequently described as having a magnetic personality that draws people to them, combined with a practical intelligence that helps them turn creative ideas into reality. They tend to approach life with intensity and purpose, whether in personal relationships or professional pursuits.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Rozene emerged as a distinctly American name innovation during the 20th century, reflecting the American tradition of creating unique variations from classic names. While traditional names like Rose have deep European roots, Rozene represents the American tendency toward name customization and personalization. The name gained traction particularly in the mid-20th century as American parents sought names that maintained floral elegance while offering distinctive spelling and pronunciation. This naming pattern aligns with broader American cultural values of individuality and innovation, while still honoring traditional botanical symbolism. The name's development mirrors the evolution of American naming conventions, where classical elements are reimagined to create fresh, contemporary identities that bridge heritage and modernity.



In the context of American naming history, Rozene exemplifies how immigrant communities and cultural blending have influenced name creation in the United States. The name maintains connections to European floral traditions while establishing its own unique American identity. This process of name adaptation and innovation reflects the larger American narrative of taking established traditions and transforming them into something new and distinctly national. The name's usage across different regions and communities demonstrates how American names often transcend specific ethnic boundaries to become part of the shared national naming lexicon.
Cultural & Historical Significance

The name Salih holds profound significance in Islamic culture and Egyptian society, deriving from the Arabic root meaning 'righteous' or 'virtuous.' In Islamic tradition, Prophet Salih is a revered figure mentioned in the Quran who was sent to the people of Thamud, known for his miracles and moral teachings. His story emphasizes the importance of faith, patience, and standing up for truth against opposition. In Egyptian context, the name embodies traditional values of integrity and moral uprightness that have been cherished for centuries. The name reflects the deep-rooted Islamic heritage in Egypt while maintaining its universal appeal across Muslim communities worldwide. It represents the ideal of living a life guided by ethical principles and spiritual values, making it a popular choice for parents seeking to instill these qualities in their children. Throughout Egyptian history, the name has been borne by scholars, leaders, and common people alike, each carrying forward the legacy of righteousness that the name signifies.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Sebak holds significant cultural importance in ancient Egyptian mythology as a companion deity to Set, the god of chaos, storms, and the desert. In the Egyptian pantheon, Sebak was often depicted as a minor deity who assisted Set in his various mythological roles, particularly in contexts involving chaos, foreign lands, and the harsh desert environment. The name appears in various Middle Kingdom and New Kingdom texts, where Sebak is sometimes associated with the more prominent crocodile god Sobek, suggesting a possible linguistic and theological connection between these deities.



As Set's companion, Sebak represented the destructive but necessary forces of nature that the Egyptians both feared and respected, embodying the concept that chaos and order were complementary forces in the universe rather than purely oppositional. This theological understanding reflects the sophisticated Egyptian worldview where even seemingly negative forces had their place in maintaining cosmic balance. The preservation of Sebak's name in archaeological records indicates that this deity held enough significance to be memorialized in formal religious contexts, though always in a secondary role to the more prominent Set.
Cultural & Historical Significance

In Vietnamese culture, the name Tai (often spelled Tai) carries profound significance as it directly translates to 'talent' or 'ability.' This name reflects the traditional Vietnamese emphasis on education, skill development, and personal excellence. Historically, names containing 'Tai' were often given to express parents' hopes that their child would grow up to be talented and successful, contributing meaningfully to their family and community. The name embodies the Confucian values deeply embedded in Vietnamese society, where talent and virtue are considered essential qualities for personal and societal advancement. Throughout Vietnam's history, the concept of 'tai' has been celebrated in literature, folk tales, and educational systems as a virtue to be cultivated and respected.



The name also represents the Vietnamese diaspora's connection to cultural roots, serving as a reminder of traditional values while adapting to global contexts. In modern Vietnamese society, the name continues to symbolize the aspiration for excellence and the belief in human potential. It reflects the cultural narrative that talent, when combined with hard work and moral character, leads to meaningful success and contribution to society. The enduring popularity of the name across generations demonstrates its deep cultural resonance and the continuing importance of these values in Vietnamese identity.
The name Tilda evokes personality traits of quiet strength, intellectual depth, and artistic sensibility. Individuals with this name are often perceived as self-possessed and independent, possessing an inner confidence that doesn't require external validation. They tend to be observant and thoughtful, preferring to listen and analyze before speaking or acting. This contemplative nature often masks a determined will and strong principlesthe 'battle-might' of the name's meaning manifesting as resilience and moral courage rather than aggression. Tildas typically exhibit sophisticated tastes and creative intelligence, often excelling in artistic or intellectual pursuits. They value authenticity and depth in relationships, forming few but meaningful connections. Their strength combines with sensitivity, making them both resilient and empathetic. While they may appear reserved initially, they reveal warmth and loyalty to those they trust. This combination of strength and refinement makes Tildas natural leaders who inspire through example rather than command, embodying the modern interpretation of 'mighty in battle' as overcoming personal and professional challenges with grace and intelligence.
Individuals named Yolotli are often perceived as deeply compassionate, emotionally intelligent, and spiritually grounded. They tend to possess a natural empathy that allows them to connect with others on profound levels, often serving as emotional anchors in their communities. Their name meaning 'heart' seems to manifest in their personality through genuine warmth, sincerity, and an innate understanding of human emotions. Yolotli bearers typically demonstrate strong moral conviction and courage when defending their beliefs or protecting loved ones.



They approach life with passion and intensity, whether in personal relationships, creative pursuits, or professional endeavors. While they can be sensitive, this sensitivity is balanced by remarkable resilience - much like the physical heart that continues beating through life's challenges. Their emotional depth often makes them excellent listeners and trusted confidants, though they may need to guard against taking on others' emotional burdens too heavily. The name's cultural heritage also tends to instill a sense of responsibility toward community and tradition, making Yolotli individuals often deeply committed to causes larger than themselves.
Cultural & Historical Significance

The name Yousef holds profound significance in Islamic culture as it belongs to Prophet Yusuf (Joseph), one of the most revered figures in the Quran. His story, detailed in Surah Yusuf, is considered one of the most beautiful narratives in Islamic scripture, showcasing themes of patience, faith, divine protection, and ultimate triumph over adversity. Prophet Yusuf's journey from being sold into slavery by his brothers to becoming a powerful ruler in Egypt serves as a powerful metaphor for God's plan and the reward for steadfast faith.



Throughout Islamic history, the name Yousef has been borne by numerous scholars, leaders, and influential figures, cementing its status as a name representing wisdom, integrity, and spiritual strength. In many Muslim communities, naming a child Yousef is seen as invoking the prophetic virtues of patience in hardship, forgiveness toward wrongdoers, and the ability to interpret dreams and signs. The name carries the expectation that the bearer will embody these noble characteristics while maintaining strong faith through life's challenges.
By Vishu Adhana Pakistan is going through its darkest time and witnessing "Hitler-era-like repression," with citizens being killed, beaten, and jailed without accountability, said Noreen Niazi, sister of jailed and former Prime Minister Imran Khan. In an exclusive interview with ANI, Noreen Niazi called Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir a "dictator" and described Shehbaz Sharif''s government as the most "unpopular" in the country''s history. "Pakistan is going through its darkest period. We used to read stories of tyrants; now we are living one. People are abducted and killed. I met a young man in Peshawar--shot in the head on November 26 last year--paralysed, his body destroyed. There are countless such cases," she said. "Sometimes I feel like the stories we heard about the Hitler era--the way people were dragged into basements--are repeating here," she added. Noreen''s brother, Imran Khan, the patron-in-chief of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has been in jail since August 2023 in multiple cases. The government has placed an undeclared ban on meetings with him for over one month. Noreen Niazi, and Imran Khan''s other sisters, Aleema Khan and Dr Uzma Khan, camped outside Adiala Jail along with other Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) members after being denied a meeting with him for a month. They were reportedly attacked by Pakistan''s Punjab Police last week. "We have been going there for the last four weeks, and they are not letting us meet him. This is why such rumours are spreading (that he has been killed)," she said. When asked about the action meted out against her, Noreen called out the police for their "misbehaviour." "For the first time in Pakistan, they don''t care whether it''s a child, an elderly person--nothing. They have been given the licence to assault anyone they find. As if no one will question them," she said. She warned that public frustration is mounting. Citizens are increasingly fed up with the government and the incarceration of Imran Khan, and even a small trigger could set off widespread protests. "I think just one spark is enough--then even they won''t know to what extent people will go. The oppression is too much. People are coming out, and they will continue to come out. Even today, people are sitting there. We were also there on Tuesday till midnight. I think just one spark is enough--then even they won''t know to what extent people will go. The oppression is too much," Niazi said. "They are very unpopular people. They have no public support. Imran Khan''s strength is public support--people from every background stand with him. No one stands with this government. People are angry and fed up. When you oppress your own people, they will never support you," she added. Niazi explained that Shehbaz Sharif''s position is largely backed by powerful forces behind the scenes, which she believes is why the current system in Pakistan continues despite public discontent. "They lost all elections. They inflated numbers--if someone got 1,400 votes, they made it 101,400. They stole everything. That is why they are weak. And the weaker they are, the more force they use. They have the support of foreign forces," she said. She expressed disappointment in the international community, saying that foreign powers are aware of human rights violations but choose not to act. "Pakistanis abroad have a voice and freedom that those inside the country lack, and they should use it to speak out against oppression," she added. (ANI)
VMPL New Delhi [India], November 28: Ultra Rich Weddings Limited, India's leading luxury matchmaking company, has opened a new office in Lucknow. The move strengthens its reach in North India and meets the growing demand from families and individuals searching for reliable partner search services and genuine Indian matrimonial matchmaking. Lucknow Office Address:Hotel Kings ParadiseNear Ambedkar UniversityShaheed Path, Lucknow The company continues to support people who want to find a life partner in India, connect with verified profiles, and use a trusted marriage bureau that offers personal guidance.Founded in 2011, Ultra Rich Weddings Limited operates two premium brands -- Ultra Rich Match and Absolute Matrimony -- created for different audiences while maintaining the same trust-led approach. Ultra Rich Match works with business families, HNIs, NRIs, and global clients who prefer private and direct matchmaking support. The brand focuses on one-to-one meetings and curated alliances for people who want a selective partner search experience. Absolute Matrimony serves professionals and young entrepreneurs who want verified Indian matrimonial profiles, real connections, and a safe platform to find a bride or groom in India. The brand follows the motto "No Fake Profiles" and was recognized as the "Most Trusted Indian Matrimony Site" at the Snehshilp Foundation Start-Up Fest Gujarat. It is steadily gaining traction among educated, career-focused singles searching for a serious match. The new Lucknow office will support matchmaking requests from Uttar Pradesh and nearby states. Clients will get local consultations and access to a wider network of families searching for partners across India. Ultra Rich weddings Limited is proud to have partnered with Mr. Dheeraj and Mr. Anjani , Directors of Wedding Chimes Event & Management, a high-end wedding services provider in Lucknow, to offer full support before and after match finalization. Saurabh Goswami, Founder and Managing Director of Ultra Rich Weddings Limited, said:"Our new office in Lucknow takes us closer to people who want a trusted and guided matchmaking experience. Interest from North India is rising, and this step helps us serve them better." Ultra Rich Weddings Limited continues to support Indians looking for marriage with services built on trust, client support, and strong relationship management. About Ultra Rich Weddings LimitedEstablished in 2011, Ultra Rich Weddings Limited is an ISO 9001:2015 certified company offering specialized matchmaking services through Ultra Rich Match and Absolute Matrimony. The company works with business families, NRIs, professionals, and entrepreneurs, helping them with meaningful partner search journeys that blend tradition with modern methods. For media inquiries, please contact:Ultra Rich Weddings LimitedEmail: info@absolutematrimony.com Website: www.absolutematrimony.com Phone: +91 -9909967753 (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same.)
PNN New Delhi [India], November 28: India's premier platform for LED and smart lighting innovation, LED Expo New Delhi 2025, opens its doors today at Yashobhoomi (IICC), Dwarka, marking a historic milestone as the event celebrates its 30th edition. The three-day exhibition features 250 exhibitors, including 75 first-timers. The show floor is buzzing with cutting-edge innovations in LED products, components, and applications that are driving the country's transition towards sustainable, energy-efficient infrastructure. This year, the expo's focus is on diverse areas such as solar lighting for sustainability, facade lighting as an emerging storyteller of architecture and design, and a human-centric lighting solutions approach that aligns with the body's rhythm and environments. The 30th edition welcomes brands from China, Germany, Hong Kong, South Korea, and the UAE, along with the launch of 60 new products. As India's LED lighting market experiences unprecedented expansion, LED Expo New Delhi 2025 arrives at a pivotal moment. The expo serves as the definitive platform where industry leaders, innovators and stakeholders showcase breakthrough technologies that are reshaping how India lights its homes, cities and industries. From intelligent street lighting systems and IoT-integrated, innovative ecosystems to architectural LED walls and tunable spectrum solutions, this year's exhibition captures the full spectrum of India's lighting revolution. Visitors are discovering an extensive range of offerings spanning high-performance LED bulbs and luminaires, intelligent street lighting systems, decorative LED applications and industrial lighting systems representing the entire value chain of the LED ecosystem. The shift toward smart, connected, and sustainable lighting reflects India's broader commitment to energy efficiency and environmental responsibility, positioning the nation as an emerging hub for LED technology exports and manufacturing excellence. Several distinguished dignitaries attended the inauguration ceremony. Dr Ashok Kumar, Deputy Director General of the Bureau of Energy Efficiency, graced the event as the Chief Guest. The ceremony was further honoured by the presence of Ms Lipika Sud, Director of Lipika Sud Interiors Pvt. Ltd. and President of The Guild of Designers & Artists, who attended as Distinguished Guests of Honour. Also in attendance were Ms A. Vijaya, Principal Director of the Architectural & Heritage Division at INTACH, and Ar. Ankit Aggarwal, President of the UP Architects Association, and Shree Ashish Malviya, Head of UJALA at Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL). Adding to the event's promise are Mr Lawrence Lin, Founder & CEO of Lighting Recipe Studio; Mr Linus Lopez, representing the Lighting Designers Association of India (LiDAI); and Mr Winston Pereira, Executive Director of Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India Pvt. Ltd. On the occasion, Chief Guest Dr Ashok Kumar, Deputy Director General, Bureau of Energy Efficiency, Ministry of Power, Government of India, expressed: "As India strides towards its energy efficient and climate resilient future, platforms like LED Expo play a crucial role in accelerating market transformation. The 30th edition, with over 250 exhibitors, 2,000 brands, and more than 6000 innovative lighting products from India and across the world, reflects the remarkable progress of our LED and energy-efficient technologies ecosystem. Such collaborations strengthen our national mission, especially the National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency under the National Action Plan for Climate Change, and support the widespread adoption of efficient lighting solutions across sectors. The LED story in India under the UJALA program is history in itself, having witnessed a transformative change in LED adoption across the country. I am pleased to witness the industry's commitment to innovation, sustainability and responsible energy use." Ms A."Vijaya, Principal Director, Architectural & Heritage Division, Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH), conveyed, "Our work" spans the restoration of museums, palaces, stepwells and historic precincts, where adaptive reuse is key to sustaining heritage. Thoughtful lighting plays a transformative role in this process -- it enhances the character of historic spaces, elevates their night-time experience and helps communities reconnect with heritage. Events like this offer valuable insights into ffacadeand interior lighting solutions that can support our conservation efforts with subtlety and respect for the original architecture." Mr Ra" Manek, Executive Director & Board Member, Messe Frankfurt Asia Holdings Ltd, shared, "The In"ian LED industry has transformed dramatically over the past decade. The 30th edition of LED Expo reflects the sophistication and maturity of our market. This year is special as the backbone of the Indian economy - Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs)- has a dedicated presence at the expo with 50+ companies. We are proud to bring energy-efficient, intelligent lighting solutions to every corner of India from our homegrown brands. The exponential growth we're witnessing validates the trajectory we have been building together as an industry." The exp" received support from Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Energy Efficiency Services Ltd (EESL), Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Council of Architecture (COA), Federation of Hotels and Restaurant Association of India (FHRAI), International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD), Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH), Illuminating Engineering Society (IES), Luminaire Accessories Components Manufacturers Association (LACMA), Lighting Designers Association of India (LiDAI), UP Architects Association and Women in Lighting (WIL). (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.)
PRNewswire Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], November 28: Roast CCx, Hyderabad's flagship specialty cafe and one of India's most advanced culinary destinations, hosted the Consul General of France, Mr. Marc Lamy and Ms. Maud Miquau, Director of Alliance Francaise, at its Banjara Hills flagship outlet. The visit comes shortly after Roast CCx appointed Michelin-Star Chef Joakim Prat as its Corporate Pastry Chef, marking a significant Indo-French collaboration in Hyderabad's food and beverage landscape. - A cultural moment highlighting French pastry, innovation, and Roast's growing influence on India's modern cafe landscape The French delegation toured the Roast CCx flagship - a multi-level, 60,000 sq. ft. cafe and production space featuring India's first Loring S70 Peregrine air-roasting setup, a 15,000 sq. ft. pastry laboratory, a private theatre and a dedicated coffee education studio. They interacted with Roast CCx's Founder, Hanumanth Rao Naineni, acknowledging his vision in bringing world-class talent like Chef Joakim Prat to India. Speaking on the visit, the delegation highlighted Roast CCx's role in strengthening Indo-French culinary ties, particularly through its commitment to modern French pastry, specialty coffee and international training standards. Chef Joakim Prat, globally known as the 'King of clairs' and a veteran of nine Michelin-starred restaurants, is currently leading Roast CCx's pastry program. Under his guidance, the brand is integrating French techniques with India's evolving cafe culture creating new pathways for culinary innovation, pastry education and experiential dining in Hyderabad. The visit further cements Roast CCx's position as a pioneering cafe brand in India, bringing together air-roasted coffee, advanced pastry production and international collaborations that push the boundaries of craft and technique. About Roast CCx Founded in 2019, Roast CCx has evolved from a boutique coffee shop in Hyderabad into one of India's most advanced multi-outlet cafe brands, known for its uncompromising focus on quality, craft, and specialty coffee. Entirely bootstrapped and valued at over 250 Cr, Roast CCx is built on a product-first philosophy--doing the classics right, from a clean, honest cup of coffee to globally inspired comfort food. Its flagship experience centre in Banjara Hills features India's first Loring S70 Peregrine air-roasting system, an expansive 15,000 sq. ft. pastry laboratory, a private theatre, and a dedicated coffee education and experience studio. These investments reinforce Roast CCx's commitment to world-class cafe experiences, modern French pastry, and innovation in India's evolving specialty coffee and culinary landscape. Media Contact:Name: Sudeep ReddyContact No: +91-9985864932 Email ID: sudeep@roastcoffee.in Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2834110/Roast_CCx_IFCE_Hyderabad.jpg Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2815852/ROAST_CCx_Logo.jpg (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
India is hopeful of signing the first tranche of the India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement within the current calendar year, Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agarwal said on Friday. Addressing the FICCI Annual General Meeting, he indicated that talks have progressed substantially despite recent shifts in global trade conditions. Reflecting on the negotiations done so far, the Secretary said, "I think our expectations, we are very optimistic and very hopeful that we should find a solution within this calendar year." The Commerce Secretary cautioned, however, that trade negotiations are unpredictable, noting that "with any trade negotiations, the final deadlines cannot be because even if there is one sticking point or one sticking issue which is in the mind of even one of the partners, the trade deal may not meet that deadline." India and the US were initially aiming to complete the first tranche of an India-US bilateral trade agreement by fall of 2025, but new developments in the US trade policy landscape, that include tariffs, have altered those plans. The Secretary explained, "We have found lot of changes in the global trade landscape. One of the key has been in the US landscape, where it came out with reciprocal tariffs, which were imposed on all the trading partners..." Because of this, India and the US, the secretary said, are now engaged in two parallel negotiations: a broader Bilateral Trade Agreement and a more immediate Framework Trade Deal -- aimed at addressing high tariffs imposed on India. The Secretary said the framework discussions have advanced considerably, stating, "we are close, we have tried to iron out most of the issues. Now it is only matter of time when this decision has to be taken, that when the two countries have to find the right landing zone to announce it." "I think we need to find pathway for complete elimination of reciprocal tariff in our process of doing (full) BTA. So I think that will take a bit of time, and we'll not hurry up those we are working on various aspects of BTA," the secretary said, reiterating hopes for the first tranche of BTA very soon. Summing up the state of talks, Agarwal said that he thinks they are in a zone where one can say "it is something that we can achieve in a very short while." The BTA, formally proposed in February following directives from the leadership of both nations, seeks to more than double bilateral trade, from the current USD 191 billion to USD 500 billion by 2030. Talks were first announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Washington earlier this year. In recent months, negotiations have continued despite tariff escalations by the United States. US President Donald Trump imposed a 25 per cent tariff on Indian goods starting August 1, followed by another 25 per cent increase days later, citing India's continued purchase of Russian oil. The US had imposed reciprocal tariffs on several countries where it faces trade deficits. (ANI)
The government is actively considering a harmonised infrastructure status to the hotel industry, a move that could unlock significant capital inflows and strengthen the country's position in the global tourism market, Union Minister of Tourism and Culture, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, said at the 98th AGM and annual convention of FICCI. This is "a long-standing demand that will unlock capital, expand rooms inventory and strengthen our global price competitiveness," the minister said, as was quoted in a FICCI statement. The minister's statement came as part of a comprehensive address outlining the government's vision to transform tourism into a USD 1 trillion sector generating millions of jobs by 2047, when India marks its centenary of independence. Minister Shekhawat emphasised that achieving this ambition requires substantial private investment and reimagined hospitality models to compete with regional peers. The consideration of infrastructure status is part of a broader governmental push to position tourism as a structural engine of economic growth. The sector currently contributes 5.2 per cent directly to India's GDP and supports 84 million livelihoods, according to FICCI President Harsha Vardhan Agarwal, who noted the industry could become a USD 250 billion opportunity by 2030 with appropriate policy support. India has undertaken what Shekhawat described as "one of the largest tourism infrastructure programmes in the world", with over Rs 12,000 crore invested in destination development. The government is developing 50 global-standard destinations under a challenge-mode framework, encouraging states to compete on infrastructure quality, user experience, and sustainability parameters. Minister Shekhawat highlighted the transformation of India's connectivity infrastructure over the past decade, with operational airports expanding, alongside international-standard cruise terminals, about 150,000 kilometres of new highways, inland waterways for river cruises, and over 10,000 kilometres of metro lines across tier I and II cities. The rejuvenation of temple corridors, including Kashi, Mahakal, Kedarnath, Puri and Ayodhya, represents "one of the most transformative tourism initiatives in modern India", he added. The minister emphasised India's emergence as a leader in wellness tourism, medical value travel and integrated healing pathways, whilst highlighting the country's growing concert tourism sector and its position as host of the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Gujarat. However, significant gaps remain. FICCI President noted that, despite India's civilisational depth and diversity, it attracts only 10 million international visitors, compared with France's 90 million, Spain's 84 million, and the United States' 80 million. "This shows not a gap in potential, but a vast opportunity waiting to be unlocked," he said. President-elect of FICCI, Anant Goenka, praised government initiatives, including Swadesh Darshan 2.0 and the Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive, noting they reflect a commitment to global standards and visitor experience whilst creating high-quality tourism assets. (ANI)
Actor Farhan Akhtar expressed gratitude to Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta for declaring his film '120 Bahadur' tax-free in the national capital. "...The film highlights the inspiring leadership of Major Shaitan Singh Bhati, whose actions and sacrifice remain a defining symbol of courage in India's military history. As a special mark of respect to the valiant soldiers, the Delhi Government has decided to grant tax-free status to the film in Delhi from 28th Nov. Congratulations to the creators of the film," CM Rekha Gupta's post on X read. Touched by CM's gesture, Farhan took to X and thanked her for her "support". "120 Bahadur is now tax-free in Delhi. Grateful to the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Delhi, @gupta_rekha ji, for her support. Her gracious gesture will help this story of courage reach an even wider audience," he wrote. Directed by Razneesh Ghai, 120 Bahadur portrays Major Shaitan Singh Bhati, who was conferred the Param Vir Chakra for bravery in the Battle of Rezang La in 1962. His unit, predominantly composed of Ahir (Yadav) soldiers from Rewari and adjoining regions, defended the Rezang La Pass -- the first line of defence of the Chushul airfield. Bringing such real-life stories to the screen is never easy, and there is added responsibility and pressure to make them appealing and to do justice to the major events and the people involved. Speaking to ANI, Farhan opened up about the challenges of getting involved with such stories. He said, "All films are challenging in some way or another. Of course, this demanded a lot more because of where we shot it. That does make a difference."Akhtar also spoke about the added responsibility of ensuring that the film accurately depicted the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers and their families. "We had to make sure that people whose family member is associated with the story, who we are representing in the film, that they should feel proud when they watch the film. That we are giving an accurate depiction, a respectful depiction," he said. The film also stars Raashii Khanna, Sparsh Walia, Vivan Bhatena and Dhanveer Singh in prominent roles. (ANI)
Kriti Sanon and Dhanush's 'Tere Ishk Mein' is now out in theatres. Interestingly, the film was screened on the closing day of the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) on Friday. From co-stars Dhanush and Kriti to the producer Bhushan Kumar, the team of 'Tere Ishk Mein' attended the film's IFFI premiere in full style. They all even posed for the pictures on the red carpet. Before coming to Goa, Kriti and Dhanush visited Varanasi for promotions. They performed the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat there. Speaking about the film, actress Kriti Sanon told ANI, "This is a very special film, and in only a few films do we feel that we are making something different... We came here to take the blessings of Mahadev. There is a special relationship with Banaras..." Actor Dhanush expressed his long-standing connection with the city and its significance in Aanand L. Rai's films. He said, "I don't think Aanand L. Rai can make any film without Banaras in it... Banaras is always a part of our film, and we are also part of Banaras. This film also has a connection with Banaras... This place is very special to me, and the connection I have with this place is very special." Director Aanand L Rai first revealed the project on the 10th anniversary of 'Raanjhanaa', his 2013 romantic drama that also starred Dhanush in a leading role.'Tere Ishk Mein' is produced under the banners of Gulshan Kumar, T-Series, and Colour Yellow Productions. (ANI)
Ever wondered which 'Stranger Things' characters almost didn't make it? As the hit Netflix sci-fi series heads into its final chapter after nearly a decade, it turns out that two fan-favourite characters were nearly killed off in earlier seasons, decisions that could have completely changed the emotional direction of the show. According to The New York Post, in a previous interview with a media outlet, Matt Duffer shared that Jim Hopper, played by David Harbour, was almost written out permanently at the end of Season 3. Matt explained that during internal discussions, Hopper was the character who came closest to dying for real. Before revealing the original plan, Matt added that they debated the emotional and narrative impact of such a decision and felt it would have changed the tone of the show completely. "There was a version where [David Harbour's Jim Hopper] perished at the end of [Season] 3. It's been a while since we had those discussions, but I feel like he came the closest to dying," Matt had said earlier. https://www.instagram.com/p/Ce6LHqZOsAO/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Season 3 of the popular series ended with everyone believing Hopper died in a massive explosion at the Russian lab hidden beneath the Starcourt Mall. However, the mid-credits scene hinted at his survival, and months later, Netflix confirmed that Hopper was indeed alive, imprisoned in Kamchatka, Russia. His emotional reunion with El, aka Eleven, in Season 4 became one of the most memorable moments of the show. The Duffers also revealed that fan heartthrob Steve Harrington, played by Joe Keery, was nearly killed off in Season 1. Matt shared that the decision completely shifted after the team saw how Keery transformed the character. He said the original plan was to keep Steve unlikable, but they fell so much in love with Keery that they decided not to kill his character. https://www.instagram.com/reel/CersN36DGwK/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link "That was close," he said. "We just fell in love with Joe Keery, but had we not liked Joe Keery, Steve would've been gone," said the Duffers, as per The New York Post. Steve, who began as a popular high-school jerk, eventually became one of the show's most loved characters, later evolving into the protective "big brother figure" to the younger kids. The show, however, is no stranger to killing off supporting characters, including Barb, Bob, Billy, and fan-favourite Eddie. The highly awaited final season premiered its first four episodes on November 26. It will be released in three parts: Episodes 5, 6, and 7 arrive on December 25, and the final episode lands on December 31. (ANI)
Cannabis might calm angry dogs.

Cannabis may help to calm angry dogs

A huge new study from Arizona State University suggests that CBD  the cannabis compound beloved by stressed-out humans  could help soften aggressive behaviour in dogs.

Researchers sifted through data from 47,355 pooches in the Dog Aging Project, one of the largest canine studies ever conducted.

It found a surprising pattern - dogs given CBD supplements for years started out more aggressive than the rest, but gradually mellowed.

Maxwell Leung, senior author, who also heads the universitys cannabis analytics, safety and health initiative, said: "Dogs given CBD products for multiple years are initially more aggressive  but their aggression becomes less intense over time."

The findings, published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science, stop short of declaring CBD a miracle cure.

Other behavioural issues - anxiety, agitation, general canine drama - did not shift much.

And co-author Professor Julia Albright urged caution, noting: Most canine aggression is related to underlying stress or anxiety It is unclear why only aggression, but no other types of anxious or agitated behaviours, seemed to be improved.

The dogs receiving CBD were typically older - about three years older than non-users - and more likely to have health problems such as dementia, osteoarthritis or cancer.

Male dogs were also more likely to get CBD, as were pets living in states with medical cannabis laws, suggesting that owners attitudes toward weed may be shaping canine treatment trends.

Researchers also warn that the study relies on owner-reported data, with no information on dosing or product quality  meaning the results should be handled with care.
Veteran filmmaker Ramesh Sippy paid an emotional tribute to actor Dharmendra, who passed away on November 24, and said, "We are missing him." Speaking to the media at the closing ceremony of the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), he said, "It is very unfortunate, there are no words to express this. We thought that he would celebrate the 50 years of the film (Sholay), but for the past one-two months, he has been unwell... We are missing him a lot..." The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) turned nostalgic as legendary filmmaker Ramesh Sippy paid an emotional tribute to actor Dharmendra while revisiting the timeless legacy of Sholay during an 'In-Conversation' session titled '50 Years of Sholay: Why Sholay Still Resonates?'.Hosted by his wife, actor-producer Kiran Sippy, the session saw Ramesh Sippy recount behind-the-scenes memories that highlighted Dharmendra's unmatched dedication, humility and passion, qualities that shaped some of the most unforgettable moments in 'Sholay'. He got emotional recalling his long association with Dharmendra, who passed away on November 24. Sharing a defining memory from the film's shoot, Sippy said that during a horse-riding action sequence, the saddle slipped, causing the actor to fall. "My heart stopped for a moment," said Ramesh Sippy, "but Dharam ji just stood up, dusted himself off, and was ready to go again. He always wanted to push himself and try new things." Ramesh Sippy shared one of the most eagerly awaited announcements for cinephiles: the re-release of Sholay this time with its original ending intact, according to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting release. When the film was first released in 1975 during the Emergency, the then-censor board objected to the climax where Thakur Baldev Singh kills Gabbar Singh using his spiked shoes, insisting that a police officer could not be portrayed seeking revenge. Reluctantly, the filmmaker and his team had to reshoot the ending. "Now you will see the movie as it was made," an elated Sippy told the audience, celebrating the long-overdue restoration of his creative vision. To commemorate the 50-year milestone, IFFI showcased the iconic Sholay motorbike on its festival grounds, drawing large crowds of admirers reliving the world that Dharmendra and Ramesh Sippy helped create. (ANI).
Country legend Dolly Parton shared a warm Thanksgiving message, thanking fans for their support while recovering from recent health setbacks. In a video posted across her social-media channels, Parton greeted viewers with her signature charm: "Well hey! It's Dolly here, and I want to wish all of you and your family blessings this Thanksgiving." She continued, "I am so thankful for all of you and for the memories that we've shared through the years. So Happy Thanksgiving to everyone, and just know that I will always love you," according to The Hollywood Reporter. The heartfelt clip comes after a turbulent few months. Earlier this fall, Parton postponed her Las Vegas residency and missed the Academy's 16th Governors Awards--where she was slated to receive the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award--citing medical concerns. In an October video, she reassured fans, "I'm not ready to die yet. I don't think God is through with me, and I ain't done working." She explained that following her husband Carl Thomas Dean's death in March, she had let some health matters slide, prompting doctors to recommend "a few procedures" and a period of rest closer to home and Vanderbilt for treatments, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Parton thanked everyone for their prayers and concern, saying, "I love you for caring and keep praying for me." Her sister Freida Parton also issued a statement clarifying that the health issues were minor and that the prayer request was simply a sisterly gesture, not an alarm, according to The Hollywood Reporter. (ANI)
Prominent religious leader Maulana Khalid Rasheed Firangi Mahali on Thursday urged the public to take the Special Summary Revision (SIR) process seriously and ensure accurate voter registration in Uttar Pradesh. Speaking to ANI, Maulana Firangi Mahali emphasised that while voters should not rely solely on Booth Level Officers (BLOs), they should actively assist them and complete their forms correctly. "The Election Commissioner of Uttar Pradesh explained in very simple terms how to fill out the form. My appeal to everyone is that if we want our country's democracy to remain strong and exercise our right to vote properly, it is essential that everyone fill out their SIR form correctly and submit it to their BLO," he said. He highlighted that online registration is available, adding, "You can register online as well. There's nothing to fear." The leader's statement comes amid efforts to raise awareness about voter enrolment and ensure comprehensive participation in the upcoming elections. Authorities have been encouraging citizens to verify their details during the SIR process to prevent errors in the electoral rolls. Filling out the SIR form correctly, he added, is a vital step in protecting the integrity of the electoral process and strengthening democracy at the grassroots level. Meanshile, The Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav on November 22 urged the Election Commission of India (ECI) to extend the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Uttar Pradesh by three months, citing large-scale irregularities in voter enumeration, missing voter lists, duplication of lists at polling stations and failure of Booth Level Officers (BLOs) to distribute forms door-to-door in several constituencies. On Saturday, Akhilesh Yadav also accused the Election Commission and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of allegedly misusing the SIR process. He claimed the two are working together to "cancel over 50,000 votes" in assembly constituencies where parties of the India bloc had secured victory in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Addressing a press conference, Akhilesh Yadav expressed concern about the EC and the BJP, particularly about the BJP's "targeting" of Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal through SIR."After the Bihar elections, we learn from newspapers, social media, and other sources that the BJP is preparing on an extensive level in Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal in collaboration with the Election Commission. After the 2024 loss, the BJP and EC are targeting UP and West Bengal," Akhilesh Yadav said. (ANI)
Three of the candidates -- Anupriya Krishna, Ashrin Kalakkat and Aswathi Das -- are classmates pursuing their LLM and practising lawyers. The trio, who also share a residence near the Palayad campus, have taken the political plunge while continuing their higher studies. The fourth candidate, Shivani Parambatt, is an LLB student.

Anupriya Krishna is contesting from Ward 11 of the Alakode Grama Panchayat (Alakode Town) in Kannur district. Ashrin Kalakkat, who has served as area secretary of the Students'' Federation of India (SFI), the ruling CPI (M) ''s student wing, and as chairperson of Thrissur Government College, is contesting from Ward 11 of Irinjalakuda Municipality in Thrissur district.

Aswathi Das, contesting from Ward 6 of Kollengode Grama Panchayat in Palakkad district, previously served as SFI unit president at Kerala Law Academy Law College in Thiruvananthapuram and currently serves as vice president of the Peroorkada Area Committee.

Meanwhile, Shivani Parambatt, the sole undergraduate among the four, is contesting from Ward 9 of Pulpatta Panchayat in Malappuram district.

All four candidates bring backgrounds in student leadership and activism, marking a notable example of young legal professionals entering grassroots politics while juggling academics and law practice. (ANI)
Weighing in on the ongoing leadership dispute within the Karnataka Congress, BJP MP Manan Kumar Mishra on Thursday criticised the party's central leadership, questioning its ability to resolve internal rifts. Speaking to ANI, Mishra mocked the Congress' handling of the crisis and said contradictory statements from its senior leaders reflect deeper organisational confusion. "What is the Congress high command? This is the biggest question," he said. Referring to the differing remarks made by party chief Mallikarjun Kharge and the national leadership, Mishra remarked, "When this matter came to Mallikarjun Kharge a couple of days ago, he said the high command would decide. Now the Congress national president says that the high command will decide. How ridiculous is this?" He said the growing discord within the party was expected. "This was bound to happen in Congress. There are too many differences among these people," he added. Predicting further turmoil, Mishra claimed that the Karnataka Congress is headed towards a split. "I feel that the Congress party will split in Karnataka, and their high command does not have the power to resolve this dispute," he said. The Congress leadership has yet to respond to the remarks as discussions over the Karnataka CM issue continue. Earlier, senior party MLA and former minister KN Rajanna said the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) should decide on the chief minister and, hence, "dissolve the assembly and face elections." He said that it was the CLP that had elected Siddaramaiah as the CM, and as such, it should be on the CLP to choose their leader. Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has been launching relentless attacks on the Congress, alleging that the party's infighting is stalling development in Karnataka. Senior BJP leader and MLA Mahesh Tenginkai commented on the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the Congress leadership in Karnataka, stating that the ruling party's internal rift is beginning to reflect in the state's governance. Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah earlier said the debate over the CM post is an "unnecessary debate", attributing recent discussions within the party to a cabinet reshuffle. The Chief Minister clarified that the senior party leadership would make the final decisions regarding the reshuffle, as two of the total 34 ministerial posts in Karnataka are currently vacant and would be filled during the process. Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Sunday reiterated his loyalty to the Congress and dismissed speculation over his resignation as Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) President. Shivakumar has also sought a meeting with party leader Sonia Gandhi on November 29 to discuss the ongoing topics. (ANI)
In a significant breakthrough against organised crime, the Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) Rajasthan has arrested Pradeep Gurjar, a hardcore criminal and key member of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. Gurjar, a resident of Rawaton ki Dhani, Ward No. 15, Kotputli, was apprehended from a posh society in Gurgaon. Additional Director General of Police (AGTF) Dinesh MN stated that Pradeep Gurjar is the leader of the notorious 6161 gang, which has been infamous for extorting hotel owners on highways through intimidation and violence. This arrest is considered a significant success in curbing organised crime and dismantling networks linked to Lawrence Bishnoi in the state. The gang's origins trace back to Harit Tanwar in Bhilwara, later led by Vinod Mandli, and eventually by Pradeep Rawat after Mandli's death. Gurjar was actively working under Lawrence Bishnoi associate Sachin Thapan, organising youths across Kotputli, Behror, Bansur, Bhilwara, and Gurgaon. The gang's modus operandi included indiscriminate firing at highway hotels to create fear, followed by threats and demands for extortion. Gurjar faces over three dozen serious criminal cases, including extortion, bank robberies, dacoity, murder, and attempted murder. A reward of 25,000 had been announced for his arrest in connection with seven pending criminal cases. Under the guidance of ADG Dinesh MN and supervision of Additional SP Siddhant Sharma, a special AGTF team led by Inspector Ram Singh conducted a meticulous investigation. Informers were activated, and Head Constable Sudhir Kumar confirmed Gurjar's presence in a luxury society, M R Palm Hill, in Kherkhedola, Gurgaon. The team conducted extensive reconnaissance, analysing over 150 CCTV footages. Under the guise of guards, Head Constable Sudhir monitored the suspect's movements. Once Gurjar's exact location was confirmed, the team raided the flat and apprehended him without incident. The arrested gangster was brought to Kotputli and handed over to the police for further interrogation, which may lead to breakthroughs in multiple cases. The operation saw significant contributions from Head Constables Mahesh Somra, Hemant Sharma, Constables Jitendra Kumar and driver Dinesh Sharma, along with SI Banwari Lal Sharma, Pratap Singh, Head Constable Mahavir Singh, and Constables Devendra Singh, Gopal Dhabai, Vijay Singh, and Gangaram. This arrest marks a significant victory in the fight against organised crime in Rajasthan and demonstrates the AGTF's continued focus on dismantling criminal networks. (ANI)
President Droupadi Murmu in her address to the members of the Odisha Legislative Assembly at Bhubaneswar got nostagic about her own time as a Member of Legislative Assembly and a Minister in the state. The President felt nostalgic while addressing the members of the Odisha Legislative Assembly. She said that after many years, old memories of this place had re-surfaced. As a legislator, she had asked questions and as a minister, she had answered legislators' questions in this house, read a statement from her office on Thursday.President Murmu represented the Rairangpur assembly constituency from 2000 to 2009 and served as Odisha government's Minister of State (Independent Charge) from 2000 to 2004. "Odisha played a significant role in India's freedom struggle and nation-building. This land had witnessed the transformation of Chandashoka into Dharmashok. Tribal communities of Odisha have set an example for the country by fighting against foreign rule," she said, according to the statement The President underlined that there is an ancient tradition of women's empowerment in Odisha. She said that it is a matter of pride that the Odisha Legislative Assembly has a long history of women's representation. Before and after independence, there has been no Legislative Assembly in Odisha without women's representation. She stated that women from Odisha have made the country proud by achieving success in various fields. The President noted that the Odisha Legislative Assembly has passed numerous public welfare laws. She was happy to note that the 17th Legislative Assembly has held many productive meetings in a very short period. She pointed out that this Assembly has a healthy tradition of dialogue. While pointing out that the state is making rapid progress, she appreciated Odisha Government for taking many new initiatives in areas such as agriculture, education, health, development of tribal and other disadvantaged groups, housing, disaster management, appreciating the process of industrialisation taking a new shape with the concerted efforts of the central and state governments. Nature has blessed Odisha with all kinds of bounty, the President said. "It is blessed with abundant mineral deposits, forests, and water resources, as well as human resources. Odisha's environment is highly conducive to the development of agriculture, industry, and commerce. By leveraging all these advantages, Odisha can be transformed into a leading state in the country," she added. The President said that the centenary of Odisha's formation will be celebrated in 2036. If all stakeholders can work together to build a prosperous Odisha by 2036, it will be Odisha's greatest contribution in making India a developed nation by 2047. She expressed confidence that everyone will work with the spirit of 'Nation First'. People of Odisha have immense hope and trust in them and they have entrusted a huge responsibility to them, the president said. It is the duty of all MLAs to fulfill citizens' expectations, realize their dreams, and bring smiles to their faces. (ANI)
Severe waterlogging was witnessed in parts of Thoothukudi on Friday due to continuous widespread rainfall over the past few days that has left large portions of urban and suburban areas inundated. With rainwater still not fully drained, heavy rain lashed parts of Thoothukudi around 5 am today, further disrupting the daily routine of residents already struggling with stagnant water. Several roads and low-lying residential neighbourhoods remain submerged, heightening public concerns. According to officials, necessary precautionary measures are underway to mitigate potential impact. The Indian Meteorological Department has issued a yellow warning to the Thoothukudi district, predicting thunderstorms, lightning, and squalls for today, along with strong surface winds. The warning for thunderstorms has been issued till November 29 (Saturday). Earlier, the residents had alleged that no officials had come to inspect the area or even visit them. The residents also demanded that proper road facilities and drinking water be provided in the area immediately. Residents insist that authorities must take swift action to resolve these long-standing issues faced by KVK Saami Nagar. "Every time the monsoon season begins, we are forced to face the same challenges. With small children and elderly people at home, we are suffering a lot. Even an ambulance cannot enter our streets. We are unable to go to work, and children cannot go to school. A few families here are already affected by fever," one of the residents told ANI. However, on November 26, Tamil Nadu minister Geetha Jeevan inspected waterlogging areas in the district. According to Chennai's Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) the Northeast monsoon has been vigorous over Tamil Nadu on November 24, and active over the state on November 22-23 and over South Tamil Nadu on November 25. On Wednesday (November 26), rainfall occurred in isolated places over the state, including a few places over South Coastal Tamil Nadu, whereas dry weather prevailed over Puducherry and the Karaikal region. The low-pressure area over the Southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining areas of South Sri Lanka has become a 'well-marked low-pressure area', and is likely to move north-northwestwards to be concentrated into a depression. (ANI)
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has stepped up its investigation into the deadly suicide car bomb attack near Delhi's Red Fort, taking one of the arrested accused, Doctor Shaheen Saeed of Uttar Pradesh' Lucknow to Haryana's Faridabad for on-site questioning, sources said on Friday. Shaheen is among seven arrested suspects arrested in connection with the November 10 blast that claimed 15 lives and left several others injured. The agency believes that Shaheen, along with other arrested individuals played a crucial role in planning and executing the terror strike, which has prompted one of the most extensive counter-terror operations in recent months. On November 20, the agency arrested Shaheen along with Dr Muzammil Shakeel Ganai of Pulwama (Jammu and Kashmir), Dr Adeel Ahmed Rather of Anantnag (Jammu and Kashmir), and Mufti Irfan Ahmad Wagay of Shopian (Jammu and Kashmir). They were taken into custody by NIA in Srinagar on production orders from the district sessions judge in Patiala House court. Sources privy to the development told ANI that Shaheen was taken to Faridabad to recreate the plot of terror plan as a massive cache of explosives (nearly 2,900 kg) was seized in Faridabad shortly before the blast. The Hyundai i20 car used in the explosion was traced to a local dealer in the same area. Shaheen was taken to Faridabad to corroborate some leads the NIA learnt to have known with during interrogation of other suspects and the seventh accused Soyab, a resident of Dhauj in Faridabad. According to the agency, Soyab allegedly sheltered the bomber, Umar Un Nabi, shortly before the terror act. He told the NIA during his interrogation that he "not only harboured Umar but also extended logistical support to facilitate the terrorist's movements ahead of the attack." During the course of investigation in the case (RC-21/2025/NIA/DLI) with the arrested accused so far, the NIA said the inputs received till now has strengthened the agency's understanding of the operational network behind the bombing. The agency continues to track multiple leads and conduct searches across different states in collaboration with local police forces to identify additional suspects connected to the conspiracy. Officials said efforts are underway to fully expose and dismantle the network involved in planning and executing the deadly attack. Moving expeditiously with its probe in the case, the NIA had earlier arrested two other accused-- Amir Rashid Ali, in whose name the explosion car was registered, and Jasir Bilal Wani (alias Danish), who had allegedly provided technical aid to the terrorist involved in the deadly attack. The agency has so far confronted all the seven arrested accused. The anti-terror agency, which was handed over the investigation by the Union Home Ministry soon after the attack, is working closely with various state police forces to track and arrest every member of the terrorist module involved in the carnage. The NIA launched massive searches the next day it took over the case from the Delhi Police. So far, the NIA got to know that one of the accused, Amir had come to Delhi to facilitate the purchase of the car which was eventually used as a vehicle-borne Improvised Explosive Device (IED) to trigger the blast. Forensic analysis had established the identity of the deceased driver of the vehicle borne IED as Umar, a resident of Pulwama district and Assistant Professor in General Medicine Department in Al Falah University at Faridabad. The anti-terror agency has also seized another vehicle belonging to Nabi. The vehicle is being examined for evidence in the case, in which agency has so far examined 73 witnesses including those injured in the blast that rocked the national capital. Working in close coordination with Delhi Police, Jammu and Kashmir Police, Haryana Police, Uttar Pradesh Police and various sister agencies, the NIA is continuing its investigation across states. (ANI)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Goa today to take part in the 550th-year celebration of Shree Samsthan Gokarn Partagali Jeevottam Math in Partagali and unveil a 77-foot-tall bronze statue of Lord Ram. According to a press release from PMO, the Prime Minister will also inaugurate the 'Ramayana Theme Park' developed by the Math. He will also release the special postal stamp and a commemorative coin and address the gathering on the occasion. Joint Convenor of the Organising Committee of celebrations, S Mukund Kamath, said that more than 15,000 people are expected from all over India today. "More than 15,000 people are expected from all over India. PM will first visit Lord Ram's bronze statue, then our Ram Mandir, and address the people," Kamath told ANI on Thursday. He said that the 11-day 550th-year celebration of the Math will witness more than 1.2 lakh people. "In 11 days' time, more than 1.2 lakh people are expected here. There will be cultural programs, and renowned artists, including Shankar Mahadevan and Anup Jalota, and others, will be performing." Shree Samsthan Gokarn Partagali Jeevottam Math is the first Gowd Saraswat Brahmin Vaishnava Math. It follows the Dvaita order, a system established by Jagadguru Madhvacharya in the 13th century AD. The Math is headquartered in Partagali, a small town in South Goa, on the banks of the river Kushavati, the press release stated. While PM Modi's visit to the Math in Goa is scheduled at 3:15 pm, he will also visit Sri Krishna Matha in Udupi, Karnataka, at around 11:30 am today. At Sri Krishna Matha in Udupi, he will participate in the Laksha Kantha Gita Parayana programme, a devotional gathering of about 1,00,000 participants, including students, monks, scholars, and citizens from various walks of life, who will recite the Srimad Bhagavad Gita in unison. The Prime Minister will also inaugurate the Suvarna Teertha Mantapa, located in front of the Krishna sanctum, and dedicate the Kanaka Kavacha (golden cover) for the sacred Kanakana Kindi, a sacred window through which the saint Kanakadasa is believed to have had the divine darshan of Lord Krishna. Sri Krishna Matha, Udupi, was established over 800 years ago by Sri Madhvacharya, the founder of the Dvaita philosophy of Vedanta, the press release said. Ahead of his of visit to Udupi, PM Modi said that he is "honoured" to attend the Laksha Kantha Gita Parayana programme at Sri Krishna Matha. PM Modi remarked that the programme brings together people from different sections of society to recite the Gita. "I am honoured to be visiting Sri Krishna Matha in Udupi to take part in the Laksha Kantha Gita Parayana programme tomorrow, 28th November. This is a special gathering that brings together people from different sections of society for a recital of the Gita. This Matha has a very special significance in our cultural life. Inspired by Sri Madhvacharya, it has been at the forefront of serving society," he had said in a post on X. (ANI)
Alicia Silverstone has offered a $50,000 reward for the return of two missing giraffes.

Alicia Silverstone wants to help find missing giraffes

The Clueless actress has appealed for people with any information to come forward after two calves disappeared from the Natural Bridge Zoo in Virginia in April amid ongoing allegations of animal cruelty.

Alicia said in a statement issued by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA): Tearing babies away from their distraught mothers is devastating for both, no matter what species they are.

These missing babies need specialised care, and every day counts in finding them, so I hope someone with information about their whereabouts will come forward now.

Back in December 2023, the Attorney Generals Animal Law Unit seized around 100 animals from the facility due to concerns including sick animals denied treatment, other creatures kept in filth and dozens of dead bodies and parts on the property.

In March 2024, after the county needed to prove each creature had suffered deliberate cruelty or a level of deprivation which posed direct and immediate threat to the animals life, health or safety", a judge ruled 71 of the animals would remain in the governments custody.

But 29 remaining animals - including 11 lemurs, a pack of sheep, an albino Burmese python, giraffes, llamas and a donkey - were returned to the zoo.

Two of the four adult giraffes which stayed at the zoo during the seizure were pregnant and while the facility was required to notify the state when the calves were born, it never happened.

Public records showed the zoo had a history of separating baby giraffes from their mothers prematirely, with at least 14 calves being shipped out over the previous decade.

Co-owner Gretchen Mogensen 1 is serving 100 days in jail after refusing to comply with a court order requiring her to disclose the calves whereabouts. She is expected to be released in February 2026.

Anyone with information about the missing giraffe babies is urged to contact the Virginia Office of the Attorney Generals Animal Law Unit.
The Special Investigation Team (SIT), under the supervision of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), arrested senior TTD engineering department official in connection with the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) laddu-ghee adulteration case, an SIT official said. Guntur Range I G Sarvasresti Tripathi said that the arrested person RSSVR Subrahmanyam had earlier served as the General Manager (Procurement) at TTD and was responsible for procuring key materials, including the ghee used for preparing laddus. The Supreme Court on September 26 had stayed the order of the Andhra Pradesh High Court, which observed that the CBI Director had violated the apex court's directions by appointing an officer outside the SIT to probe allegations of adulterated ghee used in the preparation of the famed TTD laddu prasadam. On June 6, TTD initiated legal action against multiple unauthorised entities found selling or promoting products under the "Tirupati Laddu" name in violation of its registered Geographical Indication (GI), TDP said in a press release. Legal notices were served through Sahadeva Law Chambers to several online platforms and vendors, including PushMyCart (Mahita LLC) and Transact Foods Limited, for unauthorised commercial exploitation of the Tirupati Laddu name and falsely associating their offerings with the temple. Earlier in February 2025, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested four individuals and sent them to judicial remand in connection with the adulteration of ghee used in the Tirumala Srivari Laddu, the agency reported finding "severe lapses" in the e-tendering process of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). The CBI, acting on orders from the Supreme Court, had formed an SIT to investigate the matter. The remand report confirmed adulteration in the ghee supplied, and according to the investigating agency, AR Dairy, Vaishnavi Dairy, and Bhole Baba Dairy were involved in the case. (ANI)
In a push towards 'Atmanirbharta' (self-reliance), Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh said on Friday that the Indian government is looking to source a majority of its defence equipment indigenously within the next decade. Addressing ANI's National Security Summit here, the Defence Secretary said, "Overtime you will see the shift (from import dependence) and hopefully the majority of our equipment will be Indian in the next 10 years or so." Talking about import dependence of India, the Defence Secretary said the main reason has been the use of legacy systems, which are often stretched above their service life due to the shortage of resources. However, India has pivoted heavily to indigenous production, having more than 80% of the defence budget being spent domestically, much higher than the normative target of 75%. "A lot of the import dependence now increasing relates to our legacy systems. In the last financial year, we spent almost 85-86% of the budget within the country, obviously the shift is going to take time, given that we have tendency to not replace our equipment that quickly. We ensure that we often take it beyond its service life simply because of shortage of resources," he said. "The fact remains that prospectively, what we are doing, we have a normative target that not less than 75 per cent will be spent domestically every year. We are exceeding that target. Last year we did about 2 lakh crore of contract signing, bulk of it within the country. As such, over a period of time there will be decreasing import dependence. However, being totally self-reliant to fill all the gaps will not be feasible," the Defence Secretary added. The Defence Secretary said that though India's import dependencies are decreasing there will continue to be some reliance on trusted supply chains. "Over a period of time you are going to see a decreasing dependence, it will never go away altogether where we have gaps like jet engines. There will be areas where it is infeasible to try to be self-sufficient. You will have to rely on some supply chains outside, hopefully in trusted geographies and not that are adversarial to us," he said. When asked if India should take inspiration from United States and invest in making a venture capital firm like the 'In-Q-Tel', the Defence Secretary said that India might not need such a thing as there is already robust fund system already. "The fact is that India already has a fairly robust venture capital ecosystem already, and many of them are investing in many of our defence start-ups. I don't think it is particularly necessary for the government to set up a venture capital fund," Secretary Singh said. In-Q-Tel is a non-profit venture capital firm started by the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in 1999 in order to encourage research and development and providing solutions for US national security agencies. According to the Defence Secretary, funding is increasingly becoming available for start-ups showing promising technologies "The way the government can support defence is through spending the budgets that we have and doing as many contracts within the country as we can, identifying promising firms. The combination of orders and quick contract signings and procurement is more than enough to attract capital," he said. India has recorded its highest-ever defence production of 1.54 lakh crore in FY 2024 25m with indigenous defence production hitting a record 1,27,434 crore in FY 2023-24, a 174% surge from 46,429 crores in 2014-15, according to government data. Around 16,000 Micro Small Medium Enterprises are emerging as "game-changers, strengthening indigenous defence capabilities." With over 788 industrial licences issued to 462 companies. India's defence exports too reached a record 23,622 crore in FY 2024 25 from less than 1,000 crores in 2014. (ANI)
Over 50 families of small and marginal farmers in Mehra village of Rajouri district have shifted from conventional methods to 100% organic vegetable farming on their small agricultural plots. With government support, small-scale mountain farmers in Mehra have transformed their hardships into prosperity by adopting organic vegetable farming to meet community demand. Chief Agricultural Officer from Rajouri, Rajesh Verma, stated that the region is currently focusing on sustainable farming practices. The government is supporting natural farming through various schemes and has identified specific clusters to promote organic farming. Additionally, they are also providing training to farmers. He further noted that as people become more health-conscious, the government is encouraging farmers to enhance their interest in organic production. "Nowadays, we are focusing on sustainable farming.... to promote the concept of natural farming...we have schemes, at the same time, we have identified the clusters for organic farming... even for natural farming..under HADP, we have identified a components, and we are providing training regarding this..with people becoming health-conscious, a demand has been created...to fulfill the demand, the government department is further encouraging farmers to scale organic production...in the aspects of marketing, branding and value addition...the work is being done.." Verma told ANI. Abid Hussain, a farmer from Mehra village, stated that approximately 50 houses in the village have embraced organic farming practices. Due to a lack of employment opportunities, many residents have turned to farming as their profession. "Due to no help provided regarding employment opportunities, the youth have turned to vegetable farming as their profession. We sell the vegetables, and earn our daily wages. Around 50 houses in the village have embraced organic farming," Hussain told ANI. Safeena Kousar, a farmer from Nagrota, mentioned that people from various parts of the country, including cities, buy vegetables. "Whenever we prepare desi vegetables, people come from faraway places, and even cities to buy these vegetables", around 3,000-4,000 worth of vegetables are sold," Kousar told ANI. Rameez Ahmed, a farmer from Rajouri, stated that the village was once poor, but development is gradually taking place. However, he mentioned that issues regarding water and seed acquisition still persist. "We used to traditional farming, now we have started with this (organic farming)...we grow all kinds of vegetables. Earlier, our village was poor, now development is slowly taking place, but the issues of water and another issue is of seed acquisition, as we buy seeds from Jammu," Ahmed told ANI. Meanwhile, in the Rajouri border regions of Sunderbani and Nowshera, the Department of Agriculture is promoting 100% organic vegetable farming. Under the centrally sponsored schemes, the government is providing extensive support to farmers in these remote hilly border areas. With government support, farmers can now grow a wide variety of vegetables using organic methods. For example, Hi-Tech Vermi-Compost units have been provided to farmers in the Sunderbani area. Additionally, Hi-Tech polyhouses for protected cultivation are being supplied to enable year-round vegetable growth, even during harsh winters. Many centrally sponsored schemes are funding these polyhouses, compost units, and awareness drives to support this initiative. (ANI)
A team of FSL (Forensic Science Laboratory) examined and collected evidence from the encounter site where the accused, Salman, in the alleged rape case of a 6-year-old girl in Raisen's Goharganj, was injured this morning, an official said. The police were carrying the accused to Raisen and their vehicle got punctured in the Kiratnagar village area near Bhojpur in the early hours of Friday. As he was being shifted to another vehicle, the accused snatched a pistol from an official, fired at the police and tried to flee. In retaliation, the accused was shot in the leg and admitted to Hamidia Hospital, where he is undergoing treatment. Senior Scientist and Incharge of FSL Bhopal, Dr Arvind Kumar Badolia told ANI, "We have found evidence of the police encounter which took place here. The evidence collected here includes items related to the firing and blood samples. The evidence will be sent for forensic testing. Our report is admissible in the court." The accused, Salman, reached Bhopal's Gandhinagar area and was looking for a rental home. The local people here suspected as the accused lacked ID card, following which the youth and locals apprehended him and handed him over to the police. Sub Inspector Sunil Singh told ANI, "The accused, Salman, was being taken to Raisen when the vehicle transporting him got punctured. He had to be shifted to another vehicle. During this process, the accused snatched a pistol from an official and attempted to fire at the police. In the crossfire, the accused was shot in the leg, and one police official was also injured. The incident occurred between 3 to 3.30 am." Inspector Vijay Tripathi who shot at the accused, injuring him, told ANI, "The accused snatched the pistol of the police official and in retaliatory firing, the accused got injured. The accused also attempted firing at police and we fired four bullets and one of which hit the accused in the leg." According to the police, the incident occurred on November 21 under the jurisdiction of Goharganj police station, where the minor was playing outside her home. The accused, identified as Salman, lured her with chocolates, took her to the forest and raped her. The girl was found in a nearby forest area and immediately taken to the Obaidullaganj Hospital, where the doctors confirmed rape. She was then referred to Bhopal AIIMS for further treatment. (ANI)
Karnataka BJP President BY Vijayendra on Friday took a dig at Congress amid the speculated power tussle between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM DK Shivakumar, saying it would not be surprising if Karnataka Congress splits into two factions. While Vijayendra stated that the BJP has nothing to do with the "internal bickering" within the ruling Congress, he added, the state administration is being affected. The BJP leader told ANI, "In May 2023, the people of Karnataka gave a mandate to the Congress. There were high expectations, but within a span of two-and-a-half years, people are desperate due to a lack of development, and the youth are unhappy as the promises have not been fulfilled. Due to an internal fight within the Congress, the administration is paralysed." Further, he asked the Congress to resolve its issues before the upcoming Winter Session of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, which will begin on December 8. "We (BJP) have nothing to do with the internal bickering of the Congress government. But, as the state is getting affected, what I said was that Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar should resolve the issues before the Winter Session starts, as there are demands from the farmers who are expecting compensation. DK Shivakumar is posing aggressively. I will not be surprised if a vertical split occurs within Congress," he said. The tussle for the CM post reportedly began when the Congress government reached the halfway mark on November 20. Meanwhile, Deputy CM DK Shivakumar dismissed speculation over discussions regarding a change of leadership in the state, asserting that he is "not in a hurry for anything" and had not held any talks with senior Congress leaders about the CM post. Speaking to reporters in Mumbai, Shivakumar categorically denied meeting Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge or Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi during his visit to Mumbai. "I have come for a family function. There was no meeting or anything. Why would I come to a meeting in Mumbai? If there has to be a meeting, it will be in Bangalore or Delhi," he said. Responding to questions about whether he had raised the issue of the Karnataka Chief Minister's post with the party leadership, the Deputy Chief Minister said, "No... I am not in a hurry for anything." Shivakumar's remarks come amid growing speculation about a change in the Chief Ministerial face of Karnataka, fueled by the "power-sharing agreement" of 2023 between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, which has been cited frequently in political circles. Congress MLC and son of Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah, Yathindra Siddaramaiah, on Thursday backed his father for the Chief Ministerial post, saying he is unaware of any "power sharing agreement" between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar. (ANI)
Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh has said that while certain Indian companies have a "tendency to overpromise and under deliver" when it comes to defence equipment, it is not just domestic companies which have delayed orders, but rather various other countries are facing supply chain issues due to ongoing conflicts in the world. Talking about the delay in S-400 air defence system from Russia, and the delays of certain orders from Israel, the Defence Secretary said that both the countries are facing supply chain issues due to the ongoing conflict in their respective regions. "When I talk to HAL I will obviously go after the delays, but let me say in a more sort of open forum, that the delays are not just from domestic manufactures. You have seen the S-400 (air defence system) get delayed due to the conflict. Israel orders, many of them are delayed because of the conflict they are facing. There are supply chain issues which have affected them in context of General Electric Engines (HAL) that they have to wait for, so not all of them are solely attributable to domestic manufactures," the Defence Secretary said while speaking at ANI's National Security Summit. However, he added to curb such delays the government is looking to introduce new rules, including foreclosing any deal if deliveries are not made within a year. "There is a tendency to over promise and under-deliver. We will need to start tacking down much more supply LD clauses much more. In the current round of emergency purchases that we are doing we are actually taking a much more tough stand that any case where delivery is not done within 1 year, that will be foreclosed. I intend to sort of ensure that it is done, irrespective of who it is, which country, which company. Hopefully those kind of decisions will bring in some of accountability," he added. Regardless of delays, the Indian government still has planned various other international cooperation for jet engines, with the Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) to be fully held in India too. "We are in the process of finalising our program with a leading international engine house to co-develop a 120KN jet engine entirely domestically produced with full IPR to be held in India. That is hopefully going to go to top level in government soon...that will happen but it will take around 10-12 years," he said. Similarly, on the Kaveri engine project, while the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has not been able to reach the required parameters, they are looking to use the engines in the Unmanned-Combat Aerial Vehicle (U-CAV), which could then be licenced too. Multiple Indian companies have already participated in the U-CAV tender, according to Secretary Singh. "The decision on Kaveri (engine project), the decision DRDO has made since they have not been able to reach the required thrust to weight ratio, they will use it for their U-CAV program. Hopefully that will enable them to licence that technology to private sector partners who participate in U-CAV tenders, one of which is out right now. A mind boggling 24 Indian companies with various partners have bid for that tender," he added. Meanwhile, speaking on domestic defence manufacturing, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited's Chairman and Managing Director said that today the company has an order book of upwards of 2 lakh crore, with every single product indigenously developed, save for 15 Sukhoi Su-30 "Today the order book is upwards of Rs 2 lakh crores and every single product is homegrown. Except for the 15 Sukhoi Su-30, which are in order, the balance orders are the Prachand, the Tejas, the HTT-40s, and the Utility Helicopter Maritime (UHM), which is under development, will come out. We also have a civil version of Dhruv, which is under certification. Next year we will have the Dhruvs also in place. These are all coming out of our own design products," the HAL chairman added. S-400 systems were one of the air defence systems successfully used to bring down various Pakistani planes during Operation Sindoor. As such, India is India is looking to buy a large number of missiles worth around Rs 10,000 crore from Russia. The S-400 air defence system of the Indian Air Force brought down five to six Pakistani fighter aircraft and one spy plane at a distance of over 300 Km deep inside Pakistan during the four-day conflict and has been termed as a game-changer by the Indian Air Force. Russian President Vladimir Putin is also likely to visit India in the near future, with the Indian government discussing the order then too. Earlier, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with President Putin in Moscow too along with other delegations in the Sanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). (ANI)
The Delhi Police Crime Branch on Friday arrested gangster Bandhu Man Singh, India-Canada-based handler of the Goldy Dhillon gang, from Ludhiana in connection with the conspiracy to fire at actor-comedian Kapil Sharma's restaurant in Canada, police said. Bandhu Man Singh has several criminal cases registered against him. He is linked to a chain of weapons recovered earlier by the Delhi Crime Branch. Delhi police also recovered a Chinese pistol and cartridges from him. He is alleged to be the main supplier of weapons and vehicles used by the shooters involved in the attacks on Kapil Sharma's cafe. After returning to India, he was again trying to rebuild Goldy Dhillon's gang network and was reportedly arranging the acquisition of sophisticated weapons for future shootouts in India. The vehicle used in the recent cafe shooting reportedly belonged to him. The police are investigating the international gang connections, and an investigation into arms supply, funding, and target list has also been intensified. In October, Kapil's cafe in Canada was reportedly targeted in another shooting incident. The Surrey Police Service (SPS) is investigating after reports of shots being fired at the outlet, Kap's cafe, on 85 Avenue and 120 Street, around 3:45 a.m., as per City News Vancouver. Kulvir Sidhu, reportedly linked to gangster Lawrence Bishnoi's operations, claimed responsibility in a viral social media post. "Today's firing at Caps Cafe, Surrey, was carried out by me, Kulvir Sidhu, and Goldy Dhillon. We hold no grudge against the general public. Those who owe us or cheat us will be warned. Bollywood individuals who speak against our religion should also be prepared, bullets can come from anywhere." This was the third time since July that Kapil's restaurant has been targeted in a shooting incident. The first attack was reported on July 10. The second attack happened on August 8. (ANI)
Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil has been booked on charges of alleged rape, criminal intimidation, and coerced abortion, with the FIR listing multiple non-bailable sections. Kerala Police have also arraigned his friend Joby Joseph as the second accused in the case. According to the FIR, the survivor was allegedly sexually assaulted by Rahul on March 4 this year at her flat in Thrikkannapuram, Thiruvananthapuram. The complaint states that Rahul allegedly assaulted her and forced her into sexual intercourse. Later on March 17 at the same flat, Rahul allegedly recorded nude videos of the survivor on his mobile phone without her consent, after threatening her. The FIR notes that the MLA warned her that he would "destroy her life" if she disclosed the relationship to anyone. The survivor told the police that, despite knowing she was pregnant, Rahul again raped her at the Thrikkannapuram flat on April 22 and later, for two days in May at the MLA's Build Tech Summit flat in Palakkad. The second accused, a close friend of Rahul, allegedly picked up the survivor from Kaimanam in Thiruvananthapuram on May 30 and gave her abortion pills while driving her in a car. The FIR states that Rahul then allegedly forced the survivor to consume the pills, leading to an induced abortion. He allegedly threatened her again, warning her not to reveal the incident to anyone. Police are proceeding with further investigation based on the detailed complaint. The police fast-tracked the case after the woman and her family met Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan at the latter's office in the Secretariat on November 27. The FIR, initially lodged at the Nedumangad Valiyamala Police Station, was later transferred to the Nemom Police Station as the alleged incidents occurred within its jurisdiction. Meanwhile, tight security has been deployed by Kerala Police at the residence of MLA Rahul Mankootathil in Adoor in Pathanamthitta district. Police teams remain stationed in and around the house as precautionary measures. The case has been registered under eight non-bailable sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, including Section 64 for rape, Section 64(2) for repeatedly committing rape on the same woman, Section 64(f) for rape by a person in a position of trust, Section 64(h) for rape on a woman knowing she is pregnant, and Section 64(m) for repeated rape on the same woman.It also includes Section 89 of the BNS for causing miscarriage without a woman's consent, BNS 316 for criminal breach of trust, and Section 68(e) of the Information Technology Act relating to transmission of offensive digital content.The offences cumulatively carry punishments ranging from ten years to life imprisonment. SFI Pathanamthitta District Committee staged a protest march to the MLA 's residence. (ANI)
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Friday asserted that the state government would show zero leniency in the case of the accused arrested for allegedly raping a minor girl in Raisen district. He also highlighted that Madhya Pradesh is known for good governance, and the state government knows how to deal with those who disobey this system and can prevent them under the relevant legal provisions. Speaking to reporters, the CM said, "Since its inception, our government has established its identity that it is known for good governance, and everyone should live their lives in their own way, in harmony with the governance system. But those who disobey this system, the government knows how to deal with them and can prevent them under the relevant legal provisions." "I have received information through the Madhya Pradesh Police about the accused, Salman, who raped an innocent girl in Raisen district. Our police will not let him go, and we would not tolerate even the slightest laxity. The way the police caught him in a brief encounter while he was fleeing, it is certain that no one can escape our clutches," the CM said. Additionally, the Chief Minister further added if anyone tried to break the law in the state, then strict action would be taken against them. "I hope that under our management, there is full potential for development and a spirit of inclusiveness in Madhya Pradesh. But if anyone takes the law into their own hands, we will not spare them," the CM said. Earlier today, the police were carrying the accused to Raisen and their vehicle got punctured in the Kiratnagar village area near Bhojpur in the early hours of Friday. As he was being shifted to another vehicle, the accused snatched a pistol from an official, fired at the police and tried to flee. In retaliation, the accused was shot in the leg and admitted to Hamidia Hospital, where he is undergoing treatment. Sub Inspector Sunil Singh told ANI, "The accused, Salman, was being taken to Raisen when the vehicle transporting him got punctured. He had to be shifted to another vehicle. During this process, the accused snatched a pistol from an official and attempted to fire at the police. In the crossfire, the accused was shot in the leg, and one police official was also injured. The incident occurred between 3 to 3.30 am." According to the police, the incident occurred on November 21 under the jurisdiction of Goharganj police station, where the minor was playing outside her home. The accused, identified as Salman, lured her with chocolates, took her to the forest and raped her. (ANI)
Dr. Shankar Chakraborty, Medical Superintendent of the Agartala Government Medical College & Govind Ballabh Pant Hospital, Agartala, was felicitated by the Telangana Governor Jishnu Dev Varma during the Telangana-North East Connect Phase-II, a techno-cultural festival held in Hyderabad. Dr. Chakraborty, while speaking to ANI, said, "Receiving this honour from the Governor was a historic achievement for Tripura's premier medical institution." He further informed that along with him, AGMC Medical Superintendent Dr. Anup Kumar Saha, Dr. Sanjib Kr. Debbarma and Dr. Partha Pratim Saha from Devalok Hospital were also present at the event in Hyderabad on Thursday evening. Dr. Chakraborty added that during the visit, he also toured AIG Hospital, Apollo Hospital, and NIMS Hospital, where he discussed improving the quality of public healthcare services. He exchanged views on modernising systems, enhancing service delivery, and adopting advanced practices to strengthen patient care in Tripura. Earlier this month, Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha said that the state government is working on improving the health system infrastructure in the state with priority and emphasised that work should be done to bring the Agartala Government Medical College within the top 10 across the country. Additionally, he emphasised the importance of enhancing the confidence and skill development of doctors. CM Saha said this after laying the foundation stone for various infrastructure projects at Agartala Government Medical College and GBP Hospital, highlighting the importance of this initiative. The projects inaugurated include the Critical Care Building (CCB), Communicable Disease Centre (CDC), a 20-bed special ward at GBP Hospital, and the Inter-Departmental Call Management System (IDCMS). Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Saha, who is also the Health Minister, stated that there are currently 400 seats available for the MBBS course in the state's medical colleges. "Students will have to score better in the examinations in medical colleges. GB Hospital, TMC Hospital, and other district hospitals are performing quite well now. I have information that some brokers are sitting in GB Hospital or TMC Hospital. Their job is to influence patients and send them to outside hospitals. Therefore, measures are being taken to trap them," he said. Providing further information, the Chief Minister stated that eight hip replacements have been performed in the state so far. (ANI)
Mandy Moore has had a "difficult" year.

Mandy Moore lost her home

The This Is Us actress - who has Gus, four, Ozzie, three, and 14-month-old Louise with husband Taylor Goldsmith - lost her home in Altadena, California, to the devastating wildfires in January but in her reflection of 2025, she insisted she still has "overwhelming gratitude" for the everythingin her life.

Sharing a series of family photos to mark Thanksgiving on Thursday (27.11.25), she wrote: "Its been a pretty wild and difficult year but the top line is definitely overwhelming gratitude. Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours. The most grateful for these 4. (sic)"

Mandy previously paid tribute to her mother-in-law Kathy Goldsmith, describing her as the "silver lining" amid the devastating wildfires.

She wrote on Instagram: "Its been a hell of a year and my Mother-in-law, Kathy, has risen to the occasion in every way. Selfishly, Im not sure what I would have done without her in the hours, days, weeks, and months since the fire. She suffered her own immense loss and has been by our side since the very beginning, without skipping a beat. Im heartbroken that our 5 min walk to her house is no longer on the table BUT so grateful that weve been able to live under the same roof these last 6 months- if theres any silver lining in this whole thing, shes definitely ours. (sic)"

Mandy heaped praise on Kathy for "absolutely mastering" the childcare of her and Taylor's three children, admitting the couple "couldnt be luckier that shes ours".

She added: "From coffee in the morning as we let the dogs out, to tea after the kids go down and talking about our grief, funny things that happened in our day, etc. To her absolutely mastering bath time, mealtime, playtime and everything in between- including moments like when Gus declared today- I have to GO POOP with Gaga now!, we couldnt be luckier that shes ours and were never letting her go.

"Seriously, she thinks she can move into her new place but thats not happening. Ha! I know you want this Birthday to just move right along, but those of us that know your friendship and heart are MORE THAN HAPPY to celebrate you today and always.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, @kathy_goldsmith!! We Love you, Gaga!! Xo (sic)"

Mandy recently admitted she is "looking forward to rebuilding" her family home following the fires.
Congress leader Pawan Khera on Friday said that Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma won't be able to fulfil his promise of implementing the Uniform Civil Code in the state as he "won't be returning to power" and claimed that the BJP leader will go "directly to jail" after the conclusion of the Assembly polls. Speaking to ANI, Khera said, "First of all, he will not return to power; he will go to jail. He knows it. This country is a collection of cultures and beliefs. You can't impose one belief on everyone." Sarma has said that UCC will be implemented in Assam if he becomes the CM again after the Assam assembly polls next year. Congress leader Pawan Khera further said that the Special Intensive Revision in Assam is a total attack on the rights of voters of India. "We will not allow that to happen. As far as Bihar is concerned, we have raised many questions, not just after the results but also before the elections. Rahul ji launched the 'Voter Adhikar Yatra' and raised many questions that went unanswered. He showed evidence from Haryana, Karnataka and Bihar of EC's wrongdoings," Khera said. The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced a special revision of electoral rolls in Assam, where the assembly elections are scheduled to be held in 2026. This 'special revision' is not the same as the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) drive being carried out by the EC in 12 states and union territories, given Assam's distinct citizenship framework and the ongoing Supreme Court-monitored National Register of Citizens (NRC) process. According to a letter addressed to the Assam Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), ECI Secretary Pawan Diwan said, "I am directed to convey that the Commission has directed a Special Revision (SR) u/s 21 of the Representation of the Peoples Act 1950, with reference to January 1, 2026, as the qualifying date, in the State of Assam."During the SIR drive being carried out in other states, the Booth Level Officers (BLOs) are tasked with conducting house-to-house verification using blank forms. However, according to EC, the BLOs in Assam will be given a pre-filled register to verify existing electors. (ANI)
With the "full support and cooperation" from the local people in Bhopal's Gandhinagar area, the accused in the rape of a six-year-old girl in Raisen district was nabbed in the state capital in the early hours of Friday, a senior police officer said. The accused, Salman, reached Bhopal's Gandhinagar area and was looking for a rental home. The local people got alarmed as the accused had no ID card, following which the youth and locals of Gandhinagar apprehended him and handed him over to the police. "We got full support and cooperation from the local people. We received information from the locals about the accused and, acting on it, the police reached the spot and took the accused into custody," Inspector General of Police (IG), Mithlesh Shukla told ANI. A local, Abdul Rizwan, told ANI, "Youths in our area were alert and active. They came to know that a man is searching for a house on rent and he has no ID card. His face also matches with picture of the accused in the Raisen rape case. They sent me his photo, and I spoke with the police to verify it. The police asked me to keep him with us. After that, the police came, and we handed him over to the police." He further added that all the locals in the Gandhinagar area demand that the accused be awarded the death penalty and that the minor receive justice. Meanwhile, the police said that when the accused was being taken to Raisen, their vehicle got punctured in the Kiratnagar village area near Bhojpur, and the accused tried to flee by snatching a pistol from an official, and fired at the police. In retaliation, the accused was shot in the leg and admitted to Hamidia Hospital, where he is undergoing treatment. Sub Inspector Sunil Singh told ANI, "The accused, Salman, was being taken to Raisen when the vehicle transporting him got punctured. He had to be shifted to another vehicle. During this process, the accused snatched a pistol from an official and attempted to fire at the police. In the crossfire, the accused was shot in the leg, and one police official was also injured. The incident occurred between 3 and 3.30 am." Inspector Vijay Tripathi, who shot at the accused, injuring him, told ANI, "The accused snatched the pistol of the police official and in retaliatory firing, the accused got injured. The accused also attempted to fire at police, and we fired four bullets and one of which hit the accused in the leg." According to the police, the rape incident occurred on November 21 under the jurisdiction of Goharganj police station, where the minor was playing outside her home. The accused, identified as Salman, lured her with chocolates, took her to the forest and raped her. The girl was found in a nearby forest area and immediately taken to the Obaidullaganj Hospital, where the doctors confirmed rape. She was then referred to Bhopal AIIMS for further treatment. (ANI)
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued notices to top officials of the Madhya Pradesh government, the state police, and the University Grants Commission (UGC) after taking cognisance of a complaint alleging severe human rights violations at VIT University, located in Sehore district. The notice, dated November 27, has been sent to the Principal Secretary of the Higher Education Department, the Principal Secretary of the Food Supplies Department, the Commissioner of Police, Bhopal, and the Chairman of the UGC. All have been directed to inquire into the allegations made in the complaint and to submit an Action Taken Report (ATR) within two weeks. The notice states that a complainant, a resident of Bhopal, alleged that a large number of students at VIT University contracted jaundice due to unhygienic food, unsafe drinking water, and poor sanitation. The complaint further claimed that inadequate administrative responses and a lack of transparency allegedly led to unrest among students. The complainant also alleged possible concealment of health information. The complainant sought the NHRC's intervention in the matter and requested an urgent independent inquiry, health audits, corrective measures, and protection for students who raised concerns. The NHRC noted that the allegations in the complaint prima facie indicate violations of the victims' human rights. The Bench of the Commission, presided by Priyank Kanoongo, has taken cognisance under section 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, into the matter and directed to issue of notices to the concerned authorities to inquire into the allegations. Additionally, the commission sought an Action Taken Report within two weeks of the date of receipt of the letter. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav also took cognisance of the matter on Thursday and directed Sehore district's in-charge minister to visit the campus, interact with students, management and ensure necessary steps are taken. "Taking cognisance of the VIT University incident, I directed the Minister in Charge of Sehore District, Krishna Gaur, to immediately visit the campus, interact with the students and management, and ensure necessary actions are taken. To prevent recurrence of such incidents, I also directed the Higher Education Minister, Inder Singh Parmar, to conduct a high-level review of private universities and educational institutions, identify student-related issues, and ensure their prompt resolution," said CM Yadav in a post on X. He further added that district administration officials were also directed to take note of the problems related to students' food and water and resolve them promptly. The welfare of students and a quality education system are the state's top priorities. (ANI)
Joint defence operations during Operation Sindoor were only a "glimpse" of how India's future theatre commands will function, according to Chief of Integrated Defence Staff, Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, who on Friday noted that theatreisation will be the country's most important defence reform. Addressing ANI's National Security Summit in the national capital today, the Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (CSIC) explaining the need for theatre commands. "We have to understand why we are saying that theatreisation is the new reform we need, and why it is going to be the most important defence reform we are looking at. We are moving from jointness to integration, and now towards theatreisation," he said. The aim, he said, is to clearly divide responsibilities between force development and force application. "What we want to achieve is a clear segregation between force development and force application. Force development will become the responsibility of the service headquarters, and force application will become the responsibility of the theatre commander," Air Marshal Dixit said. He stressed that modern warfare now spans multiple domains, including cognitive warfare, cyber and space, which need to be brought together under a theatre concept. "This is needed because warfare now takes place across multiple domains and multiple fronts. You need the capability of each service or each vector to be used at the same time and in a planned manner... All of this has to be brought together, and that can only be done through the theatre concept," the CSIC Air Marshal Dixit said He added that the Indian Air Force will continue to operate in its domain, but operations will be far better integrated. "The roles and missions it performs will continue, but everything will be much better integrated with the land and naval domains, as well as cyber. The effect of each strike or mission will be much greater." Speaking about Operation Sindoor, the CSIC said the joint functioning of the CDS and the three service chiefs during the operation showed only the beginning of what theatre commands will eventually deliver. "There will be a theatre ops room where all information will come in. The theatre commander will be able to take decisions based on it... What you saw during Sindoor was only a glimpse, and it was possible because we have been working on integration and jointness for the last four to five years," Air Marshal Dixit said. The Air Marshal Dixit said he also spoke about the importance of creating asymmetry in future conflicts. "To understand asymmetry, you have to see how wars are won. To win any war, you have to create asymmetry... In the 1971 war, the Tangail paradrop created a huge asymmetry," he said. He added that traditional domains like land and sea are now largely matched between major powers, and asymmetry will come from new domains and better integration. "One way is through integration. The way we integrate land with the Air Force, or the Air Force with cyber--this is how we will create asymmetry. If we create asymmetry earlier than the adversary, we will win."(ANI)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday unveiled the 77-feet-tall bronze statue of Lord Rama at Shree Samsthan Gokarn Partagali Jeevottam Math in Canacona, South Goa. The Prime Minister will later participate in the 'Sardha Panchashatamanotsava', which is the 550th-year celebration of the Shree Samsthan Gokarn Partagali Jeevottam Math. The Prime Minister also inaugurated the 'Ramayana Theme Park' developed by the Math. He released the special postal stamp and a commemorative coin. Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a roadshow in Karnataka's Udupi after participating in the Laksha Kantha Gita Parayana programme at the Sri Krishna Matha. Earlier today, the Prime Minister also inaugurated the Suvarna Teertha Mantapa, located in front of the Krishna sanctum, and dedicated the Kanaka Kavacha (golden cover) for the sacred Kanakana Kindi, a sacred window through which the saint Kanakadasa is believed to have had the divine darshan of Lord Krishna. During his address at the event, PM Modi hailed Bharatiya Janata Party's predecessor, Jan Sangh's good governance model in Udupi, after reciting shlokas from the Bhagwat Gita along with one lakh devotees at the Laksha Kantha Gita Parayana event at Sri Krishna Matha here. PM Modi recited the Bhagwat Gita in unison with over one lakh participants, including students, monks, scholars, and citizens from various walks of life, during the event. Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister recalled the work of former Karnataka MLA VS Acharya in Udupi. He said, "Coming to Udupi is very special for me. Udupi has been the karmabhoomi of the Jana Sangh and the Bharatiya Janta Party's model of good governance. In 1968, the people of Udupi elected VS Acharya of the Jana Sangh to the Udupi Municipal Corporation. With this, Udupi laid the foundation of a new governance model. The cleanliness drive we are witnessing today was adopted by Udupi five decades ago. Udupi began to develop a model of water supply and drainage system in the 70s." He added that the world witnessed India's "divinity" as one lakh people recited shlokas from the Bhagwat Gita. "The world has witnessed India's divinity as one lakh people together recited shlokas from the Bhagwat Gita... When one lakh people recited the shlokas and divine words echo in one place, the energy released gives new strength to our minds and bodies. This energy is the power behind spirituality and social unity," the Prime Minister said. Drawing a connection between Udupi and Dwarka in Gujarat, PM Modi hailed the founder of the Math, Jagadguru Madhwaachaarya. (ANI)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a roadshow in Karnataka's Udupi after addressing the Laksha Kantha Gita Parayana programme at the Sri Krishna Matha. During his visit to Udupi, the Prime Minister inaugurated the Suvarna Teertha Mantapa, located in front of the Krishna sanctum, and dedicated the Kanaka Kavacha (golden cover) for Kanakana Kindi, a sacred window through which the saint Kanakadasa is believed to have had the divine darshan of Lord Krishna. During his address at the event, PM Modi hailed Bharatiya Janata Party's predecessor, Jan Sangh's good governance model in Udupi after reciting shlokas from the Bhagwat Gita along with one lakh devotees at the Laksha Kantha Gita Parayana event at Sri Krishna Matha here. PM Modi recited the Bhagwat Gita in unison with over one lakh participants, including students, monks, scholars, and citizens from various walks of life, during the event. Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister recalled the work of VS Acharya in Udupi. "Coming to Udupi is very special for me. Udupi has been the karmabhoomi of the Jana Sangh and the Bharatiya Janta Party's model of good governance. In 1968, the people of Udupi elected VS Acharya of the Jana Sangh to the Udupi Municipal Corporation. With this, Udupi laid the foundation of a new governance model. The cleanliness drive we are witnessing today was adopted by Udupi five decades ago. Udupi began to develop a model of water supply and drainage system in 70s," he said. PM Modi added that the world witnessed India's "divinity" as one lakh people recited shlokas from the Bhagwat Gita. "The world has witnessed India's divinity as one lakh people together recited shlokas from the Bhagwat Gita... When one lakh people recited the shlokas and divine words echo in one place, the energy released gives new strength to our minds and bodies. This energy is the power behind spirituality and social unity," the Prime Minister said. Drawing a connection between Udupi and Dwarka in Gujarat, PM Modi hailed the founder of the Math, Sri Madhvacharya. (ANI)
In a joint effort of Assam Rifles and Mizoram Police to curb the spread of drug menace in Mizoram, an anti-narcotics operation was conducted on November 27. Based on specific intelligence about the movement of drugs on Champhai-Saitual Road, an operation was launched in general area of Saitual. The team of Assam Rifles established a vehicle check post which intercepted the suspected vehicle carrying drugs. During the search operation, 5.421 Kgs of Methamphetamine Tablets worth 16.26 Crores were recovered from Thangtinsei, son of Zamhau and a resident of Moreh, Manipur. Recovered contraband along with the apprehended individual were handed over to Saitual Police for detailed investigation and further legal proceedings. Earlier on November 26, the Assam Rifles seized methamphetamine tablets valued at Rs 13.33 crore during an operation near the Indo-Myanmar border in Mizoram's Champhai district. According to the Assam Rifles, the operation was launched on November 25 following specific intelligence inputs about possible narcotics movement along World Bank Road in the Zokhawthar area, a key transit point for cross-border trafficking. A team from the force conducted surveillance in the area and detected suspicious activity, prompting immediate action. During the subsequent search, security personnel recovered 4.444 kg of methamphetamine tablets. The substance, classified as a psychotropic drug under Indian law, is among the most trafficked narcotics in the region due to its high demand in international markets. One individual, identified as Bawi Kanthanga, a male national of Myanmar, was apprehended at the site. Initial assessment indicates that the consignment was likely part of a larger trafficking network operating across the porous border. The relevant authorities will conduct further investigations and interrogations. Assam Rifles stated that the seized narcotics were handed over to the Excise and Narcotics Department in Champhai for detailed examination and initiation of legal proceedings as per existing regulations. Zokhawthar, located along the India-Myanmar border, has witnessed several narcotics-related incidents in recent years. Security forces routinely conduct joint and independent operations to curb the trafficking of methamphetamine tablets, heroin, and other contraband that often originate from drug-producing hubs in the region. (ANI)
Delhi's Patiala House Court on Friday granted bail to nine accused persons arrested in the Parliament Street Police Station protest case. They are accused of raising slogans and scuffling with the police. Delhi police had arrested 17 persons from outside of Parliament Street Police Station on Sunday. Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC) Sahil Monga granted bail to the nine accused. The court has granted bail to the accused persons, furnishing bail bonds of Rs. 20000 each. Some bail applications are pending for a hearing on Saturday. Advocate Nizam Pasha, along with Ahmad Ibrahim, Advocate Soujanya Shankaran, and Advocate Rajesh Kaushik, appeared for some of the accused for the bail hearing. During the bail hearing, Advocate Ahmad Ibrahim, counsel for Gurkirat Kaur, had argued on Thursday that she was not involved in the protest or scuffle. She went to the police station after knowing that her sister, Ravjot Kaur, was detained by the police. She is not seen in the video. Delhi's Patiala House Court on Thursday remanded Gurkirat Kaur, Ravjot Kaur, Kranti, and Avinash Satyapati in two days' police custody. Alongside, at least 13 accused were also remanded to judicial custody. While seeking the custody of five accused persons, the police on Thursday submitted that custody is required, as the police have to arrest three accused seen in the video. Delhi police had also submitted, "There are not only three people...we don't know how many people are there... There is a Conspiracy, we are investigating." The Court questioned the investigation officer, "Why don't you specify that some of the accused have been arrested in another FIR. What is the scope of your investigation?" It was stated that the source of funding was to be verified as the accused were travelling, organising conferences, and using expensive mobile phones. It was submitted that custody is required for the recovery of the pepper spray and the identification of the other accused. The investigation officer also sought judicial custody of the 12 accused persons. It was submitted that their addresses have not been verified. The counsel for the accused had opposed the custodial remand application. It was submitted that it is an admitted case of a scuffle between students and police at the police station. They also said that in this case, no police custody is required and claimed that there was no use of pepper spray at the protest site. It was also submitted that the whole area is under CCTV footage surveillance, and the police are seeking remand of the accused persons to identify other responsible persons. It shows that police want to extract a confession statement, but the same is not admissible in law. The counsel had also argued that the video the police are relying upon is related to the incident of Kartavya Path for which an FIR has already been registered. (ANI)
Amid escalating tensions within the Karnataka Congress over the Chief Minister's post, the party's high command is likely to take up the issue during the Congress Strategy Group meeting scheduled for the evening of November 30, ahead of the Winter Session of Parliament, sources said. CWC chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, and party president Mallikarjun Kharge are expected to attend the meeting Meanwhile, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who has consistently maintained that he will abide by whatever decision the party leadership takes, posted on X that he has invited Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar for lunch on Saturday. He added that he would travel to New Delhi if summoned by the high command. "There is no change in my stance. I have already informed that I will act as per what the party seniors have said. Even now and tomorrow, I will say the same. The party seniors have called me and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and instructed us to meet. Therefore, I have invited him for lunch, where we will discuss. D.K. Shivakumar has said that he will accept what the high command has said. If the high command calls me to New Delhi, I will go," the 'X' post stated. Speculations about a leadership change in Karnataka rose on November 20, when the Siddaramaiah-led government completed its half-term. Siddaramaiah, the current CM, insists he'll complete his five-year term, citing the mandate given by the people of Karnataka. He's emphasised his commitment to fulfilling the party's promises, including the five guarantee schemes. Shivakumar, on the other hand, is pushing for a leadership change, citing a "secret agreement" among senior leaders that he should take over as CM after 2.5 years. The high command, led by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, is expected to make a decision soon. Both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar have expressed willingness to abide by the party's decision. The tussle, fueled by the "power-sharing agreement" of 2023 between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, has pushed each side's loyalists to lobby for their leaders' claims to the state's top post. (ANI)
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel visited the 'Pramukh Swami Vocational Training Centre (PSVTC)' at Dharampur and presented certificates to the trainee students. On the occasion of Pramukh Swami Maharaj's birth anniversary, the Vocational Training Centre organised a felicitation ceremony for the Chief Minister. The Chief Minister stated that Pujya Pramukh Swami Maharaj spread the timeless message of peace, love, and compassion across the world. He added that the Swaminarayan sect has played a noble role in preserving India's ancient rishi culture. Chief Minister also lauded the sect for its long-standing efforts to steer youth away from addictions, instil strong values, and make them Atmanirbhar, as per the Chief Minister's Office "There is no substitute for skill, innovation, and hard work," the Chief Minister remarked, noting that India's youth embody all three, and proudly noted that, with their talent, determination, and enthusiasm, our young people have the power to achieve the seemingly impossible, even drawing water from stone. Two decades ago, the tribal belt from Ambaji to Umargam had no science colleges. Over the past 20 years, more than two dozen colleges offering science, arts, and commerce programs have thrived in the region. Highlighting the steady growth in education, infrastructure, schemes, and economic activities, the Chief Minister said that eight state-of-the-art vocational training centres have been established in tribal areas under the PPP model. Over three lakhs tribal youth have benefited from training and placement opportunities provided through these vocational centres, ITIs, and KVKs. The Pramukh Swami Vocational Training Centre in Dharampur, situated in a tribal area, stands out as a shining example of this initiative. He said that, rather than depending on the hope of degree-based jobs, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has paved the way for youth through skill development. This innovative approach has empowered millions of young people, making them both skilled and capable. At Dharampur PSVTC, around 30 different trades are currently offered, and within just the first three years of its operation, over 500 trained youth have successfully secured employment. The Chief Minister urged everyone to adopt a "Swadeshi" approach and strive for Atmanirbharta, noting that the Prime Minister has called for a Swadeshi and Atmanirbhar Bharat to achieve the vision of a Viksit Bharat@ 2047. He stressed that this goal can only be realised through the collective efforts and cooperation of all. Tribal Minister Naresh Patel stated that the Prime Minister, during his tenure as Chief Minister, launched the Vanbandhu Kalyan Yojana to promote the development of the tribal community and facilitate their holistic growth. The state government has been actively working to ensure that tribal youth have opportunities to become pilots, doctors, and engineers. With government support, tribal youth are now soaring to new heights as pilots, achieving remarkable success. Finance Minister Kanubhai Desai stated that the government has shown its commitment to the upliftment and development of the tribal community through the implementation of various schemes in education, healthcare, employment, and economic growth. On this occasion, prominent personalities, including MP Dhaval Patel, Secretary to the Chief Minister Dr Vikrant Pandey, MLA Arvind Patel, Tithal BAPS leaders Kothari Swami Pujya Vivek Swarupji and Pujya Chinmay Swami, Collector Bhavya Verma, District Organisation President Hemant Kansara, along with other dignitaries, students, residents, and devotees, were in attendance. (ANI)
Pope Leo has warned that the "future of humanity is at stake" amid wars around the globe.

Pope Leo fears for humanity with conflicts going on around the globe

The 70-year-old pontiff is visiting Turkey on his first trip abroad as the head of the Catholic Church and expressed concern that the world is being destabilised by "ambitions and choices that trample on justice and peace".

After meeting Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara on Thursday (27.11.25), the Pope said: "We must in no way give in to this. The future of humanity is at stake."

Pope Leo did not directly refer to the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza but was thought to be addressing them and Erdogan, who has offered to assist with peace negotiations in both wars, praised the pontiff's message.

The politician said: "We commend (the Pope's) astute stance on the Palestinian issue. Our debt to the Palestinian people is justice, and the foundation of this is to immediately implement the vision of a two-state solution based on the 1967 borders. Similarly, preserving the historic status of Jerusalem is crucial."

Pope Leo previously waded into current affairs as he expressed alarm at Tesla chief Elon Musk becoming a trillionaire.

He feels that the world is forgetting "the value of human life, of the family, and the value of society" and stated that the ever-widening gap between the rich and poor is a key cause of this.

In his first interview since being elected as pontiff in May - published on the website Crux in September - the Pope said: "For example, CEOs that 60 years ago might have been making four to six times more than what the workers are receiving, the last figure I saw, it's 600 times more than what average workers are receiving."

Revealing how he heard that "Elon Musk is going to be the first trillioniare in the world", Pope Leo added: "What does that mean and what's that about? If that is the only thing that has value any more, then we're in big trouble."

The Pope also explained that he has "a huge learning curve ahead" as he settles into life at the Vatican following the passing of his predecessor Pope Francis in April.

He said: "The totally new aspect to the job is being thrown onto the level of world leader.

"It's very public, people know the phone conversations or meetings I've had with the heads of state of a number of different governments, countries around the world, in a time when the voice of the church has a significant role to play."
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, during a press conference on Friday, expressed frustration over the central government's interference in state matters, saying they're being unfairly targeted. He emphasised that no one has the right to illegally occupy government land, but criticised the targeting of a single community. Abdullah urged the central government to implement the J&K Reorganisation Act fairly and restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir as soon as possible. He believes the central government should respect the separation of powers and fulfill its promises. "We're not going beyond our jurisdiction, but what's within our jurisdiction is being interfered with... No one has the right to illegally occupy government land. But you should not target a single community. It is not right to defame the elected government... Implement the J&K Reorganisation Act in letter and spirit. Respect the separation of powers and restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir as soon as possible..." he said. Abdullah's statement comes amid tensions over issues like the Pahalgam attack and allegations of government land encroachment. He took a jibe at the central government, demanding that it admit to punishing the people of Jammu and Kashmir for not bringing the BJP to power, if it fails to fulfil its promise of restoring statehood; however, he remains hopeful. "I have not given up yet... I believe that the central government is at least not so deceitful as to renege on its promises in Parliament. Or they should admit that they are punishing the people of Jammu and Kashmir because the BJP did not come to power... But when it is said that we will give statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, we are then given reasons to keep us deprived of statehood..." he said. He further underlined that the matter of restoration of statehood was also discussed in the party meeting, adding that two of its three steps have been completed, however, the final step is being delayed. "The promises made by the Centre in the Parliament were not only for the people of Jammu and Kashmir but for the people of the entire country... When the Supreme Court was assured that the restoration of statehood is a three-stage process: delimitation, elections, and restoration of statehood. Two steps have been completed; now, why the delay in the third step? So, this was discussed in detail..." he said. Moreover, CM Abdullah stressed that two discussions took place in the National Conference party meeting, underlining that the suggestions received will be considered and implemented. "It's been over a year since the government was formed. The party has a working committee. It's the party's stage body. Two discussions were held on the current political situation... From party officials, feedback was taken on the government's performance. Any suggestions received from the organisation will be carefully considered and implemented..." he stated. He further ensured that the election results in Budgam and Nagrota were reviewed to identify and correct the shortcomings. "Discussions were also held regarding Budgam, and the results were reviewed. Elections were held not only in Budgam but also in Nagrota. Both were reviewed, and wherever shortcomings were identified, the organisation took decisions to correct them. Those decisions will be made in the coming days..." he said. In a sharp attack, he challenged the national security measures taken by the centre, and stated that there were no attacks like the Pahalgam terror attack during his tenure as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir. (ANI)
Delhi's Patiala House Court on Friday granted one-day custody of Vagisha and Ayesha to the police. The other 13 accused were remanded to judicial custody for seven days. They were arrested in the case linked to an FIR lodged at the Kartavya Path Police station in connection with the protest and raising slogans in support of Maoist Madvi Hidma, who was neutralised in an encounter with the security forces. Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC) Aridaman Singh Cheema remanded two accused to one day's police custody and 13 accused to seven days' judicial custody. The court also rejected the application seeking the release of seven accused and upheld the arrest as legal. Delhi moved an application seeking permission to arrest eight accused, including six girls who were in judicial custody in connection with the case lodged at Parliament Street Police Station. The counsel for the accused persons opposed the application seeking permission to arrest six women after sunset. After hearing the submissions, the court allowed the arrest of six women, after sunset, along with two men. Delhi Police interrogated these eight accused with the permission of the court. Thereafter, the police moved an application seeking their arrest. After their arrest, the police moved an application seeking their seven-day judicial custody. After hearing the submissions, the court allowed the application and remanded eight accused, including six women, to seven days' judicial custody. During the hearing, the police custody of Vagisha and Ayesha was opposed by their counsel. Advocate Soujanya Shankaran, Diksha Dwivedi, Advocate Nijam Pasha, Advocate Ahmad Ibrahim, and others submitted that Vagisha, Ayesha, and the other five were arrested on November 26 and were produced before the court 24 hours after their arrest. It was also submitted that the ground of the arrest was not provided, and their parents were not informed about their arrest. It was also stated that the accused were arrested after an order on their bail plea was reserved, and that the accused are being victimised. The court said that the duty magistrate had granted permission to arrest 17 accused on November 25. (ANI)
Adam Burakowski, Associate Professor at the Polish Academy of Sciences and Former Ambassador of Poland to India and South Africa, said that the relations between South Africa and the United States (US) have been deteriorating for a long time and were not initiated during Donald Trump's tenure. Speaking to ANI, Burakowski argued that Trump merely continued on the line of the previous administration, but with additional points given his accusations of South Africa "disrespecting human rights" of the white minority population residing there. "The US-South African relations have been deteriorating for a long time. It didn't just start during Trump's term. When he became President, he continued the previous administration's line but added some very important points. First is the accusation of Donald Trump against South Africa of not respecting the human rights of the white minority population in South Africa, the associate professor said. He held Billionaire Elon Musk responsible for Trump's "harsh" statement against South Africa's current government. Musk hails from South Africa and has been critical of the regime there. One South African person has played an important role in the Donald Trump administration. Elon Musk. He was born in South Africa, and he is interested in South African politics. He's very critical of South Africa's current government, and he influenced Donald Trump to make even more severe statements about this relationship," Burakowski said. He further argued that India continues to play a key role in the Group of 20, where it has presented itself as a "dynamic country" during its G20 presidency. Burakowski said that India's proposal for the African Union to be a permanent member of the G20 was accepted in 2023, which allowed the latter full rights. He added that India's initiative reflected its desire to be the voice of the global south in the G20. "India continues to play a very important role in the G20. We should remember that when India held the G20 presidency, it was a major event. India presented itself to the world as a very dynamic country. India proposed that the African Union be a permanent member of the G20, a proposal that was finally accepted. So in the G20 summit in Johannesburg, we had the African Union as a full member with full rights. This was the initiative of India because India wants to play the role of the voice of the global south in the G20," the Professor said. During this Johannesburg summit of G20, we saw that the PM Narendra Modi was very active, meeting many people, and also meeting with the Indian community in South Africa and playing one of the major roles in this whole summit," he added. (ANI)
Juan Carlos Marsan Aguilera, Ambassador of Cuba in India, recalled that it was after Revolutionary and former Cuban Industries Minister Che Guevara's meeting with the first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru during his visit to India that diplomatic and bilateral relations between the two nations kick-started and have been kept alive. "The first visit to India by a senior Cuban leader was paid by Che Guevara in July 1959, just months after the Cuban revolution. During this visit, he met PM Nehru three times, and they agreed to open diplomatic bilateral relations between the two countries. This relationship has been alive," Aguilera told ANI. The Diplomat further stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel spent over 30 minutes discussing efforts to enhance political relations between the two nations and to strengthen economic, commercial, and financial ties. "Recently, in July on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in Brazil, Prime Minister Modi, and Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel spent more than 30 minutes talking about how to continue enhancing not only the political relations but also the economic, commercial, trade and financial relations between our two countries," Aguilera said. He added that efforts were being made to cooperate in crucial sectors that could benefit the two nations, including health, education, agriculture, and digital public infrastructure. "There are some important sectors in which we would like to continue cooperating, such as biotechnology, health, education, agriculture, energy, and digital public infrastructure. So we are concentrating on how to continue growing the bilateral exchange between India and Cuba that could be in favour of both countries," Aguilera said. Speaking about an event organised to commemorate Revolutionary and former Cuban president Fidel Castro's ninth death anniversary, the Diplomat highlighted his contributions in furthering bilateral relations with India. "We organised a talk about the life of Fidel Castro because we are commemorating the ninth (death) anniversary of Fidel. We catered to many people who had the experience of meeting Fidel and were also close to the Cuban solidarity movement. They talked about their experiences with the contribution of Fidel to the bilateral relations with India and also to the global south and the international community," he said. Aguilera listed Castro's contribution in extending solidarity to those fighting for their liberation. He highlighted Fidel's role as a leader in the Non-Alignment Movement (NAM). "Fidel was not only a leader of the Cuban revolution, but an international leader. He made many contributions, trying to show a path to real liberation for the people. Fidel contributed a lot by extending solidarity to people fighting for their freedom and self-determination. He was a leader of the Non-Alignment Movement (NAM)," he said. "Fidel visited India in 1973 and 1983. On both occasions, he was able to show solidarity to India and its people," he added. (ANI)
US President Donald Trump intensified his criticism of the Biden administration's resettlement policies after being questioned about Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal, accused of shooting two National Guard soldiers near the White House. When asked about the attacker's reported CIA links, Trump said the individual "went cuckoo (crazy or foolish), he went nuts," arguing that incidents like this occurred "too often with these people." Trump linked the suspect's presence in the country to broader issues with the 2021 "Operation Allies Welcome" programme, claiming there had been "no vetting or anything" of Afghan nationals and asserting, "They came in unvetted." Former President Joe Biden rolled out Operation Allies Welcome in August 2021 to assist at-risk Afghans following the US withdrawal from Afghanistan. The Taliban moved back into power soon after the US withdrawl. Teump further warned that "we have a lot of others in this country. We're going to get them out," framing the case as part of what he described as systemic lapses during the Afghan evacuation. The exchange grew tense when the reporter noted that Afghan arrivals after the Kabul withdrawal had undergone security checks. Trump dismissed that, insisting they were brought in "along with thousands of other people that shouldn't be here." He then rebuked the reporter with, "Are you a stupid person?" and repeated, "you're just asking questions because you're a stupid person." As the political debate over vetting intensified, Trump later announced that Sarah Beckstrom, one of the two Guardsmen shot in Wednesday's attack, had died of her injuries, while the second remained "fighting for his life." He called Beckstrom a "highly respected, young, magnificent person," saying he learned of her death just before joining a Thanksgiving video call with US troops. He added that the surviving soldier was in "very bad shape." "Seconds before I went on right now, I heard that Sarah Beckstrom of West Virginia... highly respected, young magnificent person..." Trump said. "She's just passed away. She's no longer with us. She's looking down at us right now. Her parents are with her. This just happened." The shooting occurred on Wednesday afternoon (local time) near 17th Street NW and I Street NW, close to the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, which houses senior White House staff. Trump later said in a statement that the attacker would face severe consequences. "The animal that shot the two National Guardsmen is also severely wounded, but regardless, will pay a very steep price," he said, adding, "God bless our Great National Guard, and all of our Military and Law Enforcement. I am with you." Authorities have identified the accused as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national who entered the United States in 2021. (ANI)
The US Citizenship and Immigration Services has issued a fresh set of guidelines in wake of the shooting of two national guards by an Afghan person on the eve of Thanksgiving in the United States. The new policy guidance would authorise USCIS officials to consider country-specific factors from 19 countries when reviewing immigration requests. In an official statement released on Thursday (local time), the USCIS said, that it will consider relevant country-specific factors when using its broad discretionary authorities regarding aliens from 19 high-risk countries after halting refugee resettlement from Afghanistan and the entry of Afghan nationals in the first year of the Trump administration. This comes in the wake of the shooting of two National Guard service members in Washington, DC, Wednesday by an Afghan national. USCIS, which comes under the Department of Homeland Security said in the statement that the policy guidance is effective immediately and applies to requests pending or filed on or after November 27. USCIS Director Joseph Edlow said, "Yesterday's horrific events make it abundantly clear the Biden administration spent the last four years dismantling basic vetting and screening standards, prioritizing the rapid resettlement of aliens from high-risk countries over the safety of American citizens. The Trump administration takes the opposite approach. Effective immediately, I am issuing new policy guidance that authorizes USCIS officers to consider country-specific factors as significant negative factors when reviewing immigration requests. American lives come first." In a post on X, he mentioned that US would rigorously now re-examine Green Cards issued to aliens from every country of concern. https://x.com/USCISJoe/status/1994114271844676047?s=20 USCIS said in the statement that the updated guidance, including consideration of country-specific factors, will further strengthen USCIS' implementation of President Trump's Presidential Proclamation (PP) 10949, Restricting the Entry of Foreign Nationals to Protect the United States from Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats, and allow USCIS officers to more meaningfully assess whether an alien is a threat to public safety and national security. US President Donald Trump has announced the demise of one of the two National Guard soldiers wounded in the recent shooting that occurred blocks away from the White House. The deceased National Guard soldier has been identified as US Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, who hailed from West Virginia. "Sarah Beckstrom of West Virginia, one of the guardsmen that we're talking about, highly respected, young, magnificent person, started service in June of 2023, outstanding in every way. She's just passed away," CNN reported Trump as saying in a Thanksgiving call to service members on Thursday (local time)."She's no longer with us. She's looking down at us right now," Trump said. "As you know, the other young man is fighting for his life. He's in very bad shape. He's fighting for his life. And hopefully we'll get better news with respect to him," CNN reported Trump as saying while referring to 24-year-old Andrew Wolfe, the other victim in Wednesday's shooting. Earlier, Trump denounced the shooting of two National Guard soldiers near the White House, describing it as a "horrific assault" and "an act of terror," as federal agencies continued to investigate the attack that took place a day before Thanksgiving. The deceased National Guard soldier has been identified as US Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, who hailed from West Virginia. The shooting occurred at close range in central Washington, prompting a swift reaction from the administration. Addressing reporters, Trump criticised former president Joe Biden's earlier immigration policies, claiming the suspect had entered the United States from Afghanistan in 2021, and referring to the Asian country as a "hellhole." Authorities identified the accused as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national who arrived in 2021. Officials believe he acted alone. Citing information from Homeland Security, Trump again noted that the suspect was Afghan. (ANI)
Former Diplomat KP Fabian called for Nepal to diplomatically engage with India on the issue territories of Lipulekh, Limiyadhura and Kalapani, which have been now represented on the newly minted currency of the country. Speaking to ANI after the release of the new NPR 100 banknote, featuring an updated map that includes the disputed areas of Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura, and Kalapani, Fabian said, "This is most unfortunate, and more importantly, unnecessary. If Nepal had the conviction that a part of what is Indian territory is part of Nepalese territory, then Nepal should engage with India diplomatically, not just put an updated map on its currency. That is the best way to resolve problems, especially with neighbours." He further added, "Nepal had no business to do it... Perhaps the Chinese, and even Pakistan, have been prompting Nepal to do this... Nepal has done something foolish in terms of its own interest..." Nepal on Thursday issued its new banknote for the NPR 100, featuring an updated map that includes Indian territories of Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura, and Kalapani. The bank note came into circulation from today.In a public notice, Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB), the central bank of the Himalayan nation, stated that the newly introduced NPR 100 note was designed to include "refined security and identification elements to enhance authenticity and usability". In October last year, the NRB entrusted a Chinese company with printing the new banknotes. The design of the NPR 100 denomination was approved by the Nepalese Cabinet during a meeting led by the former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli in May 2024.The contract for printing was awarded to China Banknote Printing and Minting Corporation. On May 20, 2020, Nepal issued a new map incorporating Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh, and Kalapani through a constitutional amendment. India had firmly rejected the Nepal move and said Nepal governent has released a revised official map that includes parts of Indian territory. Under the Nepal Rastra Bank Act, the NRB is responsible for designing the notes, though any changes to the design or size of the notes require government approval. The new note features Mount Everest on the left side and a watermark of the Rhododendron--the national flower of Nepal--on the right. The centre of the note includes illustrations of Nepal's map and the Ashoka Pillar, while the main design highlights a one-horned rhinoceros with its calf. For visually impaired users, a tactile black dot has been added near the Ashoka Pillar to help identify the denomination by touch. The note retains the colour and size of the previous version and includes a depiction of Maya Devi printed in silver metallic ink inside an oval on the left side. The note carries the signature of the then-Governor Maha Prasad Adhikari and includes a series number marked "2081" in Nepali numerals at the bottom. The NRB had commissioned the Chinese company to design, print, supply, and deliver 300 million 100-rupee notes. The total printing cost is estimated at approximately USD 8,996,592. At the current exchange rate, this amounts to over NPR 1.2 billion, making the cost of printing each 100-rupee note roughly NPR 4 and 4 paisa. (ANI)
The UN's deputy spokesperson reaffirmed that the world body has urged Pakistani authorities to ensure the human rights and due-process rights of Imran Khan are respected. This follows his arrest and ongoing legal proceedings -- the UN has emphasized that in such politically sensitive cases, fair treatment under law and procedural fairness are essential. In a response to ANI, United Nations deputy spokesperson Farhan Haq said, "We have called for his human rights and due process rights to be respected." The statement recalls earlier appeals by the UN leadership to uphold the rule of law, the right to a fair trial, and to allow peaceful assembly and protests -- even as unrest grows in parts of Pakistan. Khan has faced multiple charges since he was ousted as prime minister in 2022. His legal team and supporters allege that many proceedings are politically motivated, and international rights bodies -- including UN-linked ones -- have accused authorities of violations such as arbitrary detention and denial of fair trial rights. The UN statement thus serves as a call to Pakistan's institutions to ensure justice is not only done -- but seen to be done -- in compliance with both domestic and international human-rights norms. Notably, Kasim Khan, the youngest son of ex-Prime Minister Imran Khan, sounded an alarm on X, claiming the government has cut off all family access and kept his father in absolute isolation. He said the family has been left without any proof of life and cautioned that authorities will be accountable for whatever happens to the former premier. (ANI)
After Nepal released new currency featuring the territories of Lipulekh, Limiyadhura and Kalapani, Foreign Affairs Expert Robinder Sachdev said that India's reaction to it should not be rhetorical. Speaking to ANI on the issue, Sachdev said, "I see this as a logical continuation of their first step in which, in 2020, they included these territories in their map. These NPR 100 notes in circulation carry the map of Nepal. Logically, the new map of the country will be represented on the NPR 100 notes... The whole country is in a political turmoil. There is an interim government. The Indian reaction to it should not be much louder or rhetorical, otherwise, the political parties in Nepal will turn it into an issue of nationalism, especially those who are anti-India will gain more currency and will try to obtain political benefit from this controversy..." Former Diplomat KP Fabian called for Nepal to diplomatically engage with India on the issue territories of Lipulekh, Limiyadhura and Kalapani, which have been now represented on the newly minted currency of the country. Speaking to ANI after the release of the new NPR 100 banknote, Fabian said, "This is most unfortunate, and more importantly, unnecessary. If Nepal had the conviction that a part of what is Indian territory is part of Nepalese territory, then Nepal should engage with India diplomatically, not just put an updated map on its currency." Nepal on Thursday issued its new banknote for the NPR 100, featuring an updated map that includes Indian territories of Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura, and Kalapani. The bank note came into circulation from today.In a public notice, Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB), the central bank of the Himalayan nation, stated that the newly introduced NPR 100 note was designed to include "refined security and identification elements to enhance authenticity and usability". In October last year, the NRB entrusted a Chinese company with printing the new banknotes. The design of the NPR 100 denomination was approved by the Nepalese Cabinet during a meeting led by the former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli in May 2024.The contract for printing was awarded to China Banknote Printing and Minting Corporation. On May 20, 2020, Nepal issued a new map incorporating Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh, and Kalapani through a constitutional amendment. India had firmly rejected the Nepal move and said Nepal governent has released a revised official map that includes parts of Indian territory. Under the Nepal Rastra Bank Act, the NRB is responsible for designing the notes, though any changes to the design or size of the notes require government approval. The new note features Mount Everest on the left side and a watermark of the Rhododendron--the national flower of Nepal--on the right. The centre of the note includes illustrations of Nepal's map and the Ashoka Pillar, while the main design highlights a one-horned rhinoceros with its calf. For visually impaired users, a tactile black dot has been added near the Ashoka Pillar to help identify the denomination by touch. The note retains the colour and size of the previous version and includes a depiction of Maya Devi printed in silver metallic ink inside an oval on the left side. The note carries the signature of the then-Governor Maha Prasad Adhikari and includes a series number marked "2081" in Nepali numerals at the bottom. The NRB had commissioned the Chinese company to design, print, supply, and deliver 300 million 100-rupee notes. The total printing cost is estimated at approximately USD 8,996,592. At the current exchange rate, this amounts to over NPR 1.2 billion, making the cost of printing each 100-rupee note roughly NPR 4 and 4 paisa. (ANI)
US President Donald Trump called the alleged gunman, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a "savage monster," after one of the two injured National Guard personnel died of her wounds, while another is critical and fighting for his life. Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, one of the two West Virginia National Guard personnel shot near the White House on Wednesday afternoon (local time), had died from her injuries. Trump said he had spoken with Beckstrom''s family and described her as "an incredible person, outstanding in every single way." Speaking to US service members during his Thanksgiving call, Trump described the shooting as a terrorist act. He noted that the second Guardsman, Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, remained in critical condition and was "fighting for his life." Linking the attack to broader security concerns, Trump criticised the Afghan resettlement and asylum vetting systems, arguing that shortcomings in those processes had enabled individuals like the suspect to enter the country. He said national security and immigration enforcement would remain major focus areas as the case progresses. As further information emerged, officials confirmed that Rahmanullah Lakanwal, the Afghan national accused of shooting the two soldiers, had previously worked within one of the CIA''s covert Afghan combat units. The 29-year-old had served in the CIA-backed Zero Units, which fought the Taliban and later helped secure Kabul airport during the final phase of the 2021 withdrawal. Lakanwal entered the US in 2021 through Operation Allies Welcome, the programme created to resettle Afghans who had supported American personnel or agencies. In a statement to CBS, CIA Director John Ratcliffe said, "The Biden Administration justified bringing the alleged shooter to the United States in September 2021 due to his prior work with the US Government, including CIA, as a member of a partner force in Kandahar, which ended shortly following the chaotic evacuation." According to US officials, Lakanwal drove more than 2,500 miles from Bellingham in Washington state to Washington, DC, before the shooting. US Attorney Jeanine Pirro described the attack as "ambush-style" and said he used a .357 Smith & Wesson revolver. Beckstrom later died, while Wolfe remains in critical condition. National Guard personnel at the scene shot and detained Lakanwal. He has been charged with assault with intent to kill while armed and a firearms offence, and is currently being treated under guard. Earlier at a press briefing, FBI Director Kash Patel also acknowledged Lakanwal''s previous role with US partner units, saying the suspect "had a relationship in Afghanistan with partner forces" before entering the United States. Following the attack, Trump had denounced the shooting as an "act of terror" and announced that the US would stop processing immigration requests from Afghans. He added that the country "must now re-examine every single alien who has entered our country from Afghanistan under Biden." Trump also said that an extra 500 National Guard troops would be deployed to Washington, where more than 2,000 personnel have already been stationed since August. (ANI)
Rockstar Games is under mounting political pressure after the dismissal of more than 30 employees sparked allegations of union-busting.

Rockstar Games is under mounting political pressure after the dismissal of more than 30 employees sparked allegations of union-busting

According to STV News, Scottish Green Party councillor Dan Heap has tabled a motion for next weeks Fair Work Committee meeting, urging the local authority to support the fired workers with welfare and financial guidance and to press the Grand Theft Auto studio directly to reinstate them.

Heaps motion follows weeks of protests and rising political attention, with the controversy now reaching UK Parliament and even Polish lawmakers.

The row began last month when Rockstar let go of over 30 employees, claiming they had shared confidential information in a public forum.

The Independent Workers Union of Great Britain (IWGB) disputes that version of events, arguing the group had been privately discussing workplace conditions while forming the Rockstar Games Workers Union.

The IWGB has since filed a legal claim accusing the studio of the most ruthless act of union busting in UK games industry history.

Inside Rockstar North, more than 200 employees have signed a letter condemning the firings and demanding their colleagues be reinstated.

Workers say the dismissed staff were key union organisers, and that Rockstars actions were designed to intimidate their employees.

Protests have taken place outside Rockstar North in Edinburgh and publisher Take-Two Interactives London and Paris offices.

IWGB organisers also note that Rockstar has benefitted from more than 440 million in UK tax relief, intensifying calls for accountability.

The backlash lands at a sensitive moment for Rockstar, as the studio recently delayed GTA VI from May to November 2026 and faces pressure to maintain momentum without undermining its workforce.

Rockstar denies all allegations, insisting the dismissals were due solely to misconduct.
US Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F Kennedy Jr this week posted a Thanksgiving lunch photograph showing him seated with US President Donald Trump, Tesla founder Elon Musk, Donald Trump Jr, and House Speaker Mike Johnson, signalling renewed attention on the evolving relationship between Trump and Musk. The image, shared on X, appeared to be taken at an undisclosed location and showed Trump and Musk sitting side by side on the same side of the table. The arrangement quickly prompted speculation that the strained ties between the two may be easing. Kennedy captioned the post with a simple holiday message: "Happy Thanksgiving." https://x.com/SecKennedy/status/1994099827861241862?s=20 Their appearance together follows another public moment earlier this month when Trump was seen tapping Musk''s stomach during an Oval Office gathering that included Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, a gesture that many interpreted as further evidence of reconciliation. Trump and Musk, once viewed as close political allies, saw their relationship falter over two major disputes -- the fallout from the release of the Epstein Files and their disagreement over Trump''s "Big Beautiful Bill." Musk had also accused US ambassador Sergio Gor of attempting to drive a wedge between them. Musk briefly served as the head of Trump''s Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, for five months and had travelled with Trump to Saudi Arabia in May. Tensions mounted when Trump claimed Musk opposed the "Big Beautiful Bill" due to its proposal to phase out electric vehicle tax incentives, which benefit Tesla. Their rift deepened after Musk suggested in a June 5 post that Trump had been mentioned in the Epstein Files, a post he later appeared to delete. The two have since exchanged indirect criticisms online and in interviews, amplifying perceptions of a broader political and personal split. Signs of easing tensions emerged in September when Trump and Musk were seen shaking hands at a memorial event for conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The Thanksgiving photograph has now added to the impression that both may be moving toward mending their relationship. (ANI)
US President Donald Trump faced renewed political pressure on immigration as Republicans demanded sweeping restrictions after one of the two National Guard members shot at near the White House by an Afghan national died and another is fighting for his life, according to The Hill. The Hill reported that the suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, had previously worked with the CIA in Afghanistan before the 2021 US withdrawal, and later entered the United States through a Biden-era programme created to resettle Afghans who assisted American forces. As outrage mounted, several Republican lawmakers issued sharp critiques of the former Biden administration''s policies. Citing The Hill, Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) wrote on X, "The Afghan terrorist who shot 2 National Guard heroes in D.C. was welcomed into this country with open arms by Joe Biden." He went on to say, "We must IMMEDIATELY BAN all ISLAM immigrants and DEPORT every single Islamist who is living among us just waiting to attack." The backlash intensified as Rep Mary Miller (R-Ill.) echoed the sentiment online by saying, "Deport them all. Now." Accused Lakanwal faces charges including assault with intent to kill while armed, offences that carry prison terms of up to 15 years. The Hill noted that Attorney General Pam Bondi told Fox News prosecutors would pursue the death penalty. Additional Republican figures stressed failures in vetting procedures. Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.), quoted by The Hill, wrote, "Outraged to learn the monster who ruthlessly shot two members of our National Guard was let into our country during Biden''s reckless Afghanistan withdrawal." He added, "He MUST BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE, and we must pass my Afghan Vetting Accountability Act... so this NEVER HAPPENS AGAIN!" Scott''s legislation, reintroduced with Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), would require US Customs and Border Protection to verify screening records of Afghans who arrived between July 2021 and January 2022. As reported by The Hill, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services announced an immediate halt to "processing of all immigration requests relating to Afghan nationals" pending a review of vetting protocols. Rep. Brian Mast (R-Fla.) also slammed the former US President Biden, "Let''s be clear about this: reckless, lazy, and outright dishonest policy decisions of Joe Biden, Jake Sullivan, Antony Blinken, Jen Psaki led to the shooting of two National Guard members." He added that officials "lied to the American people day-to-day about all things regarding the withdrawal from Afghanistan, including the vetting of individuals leaving Afghanistan." Republican Rep. Randy Fine (R-Fla.) called for even harsher measures, stating, "Deny entry. Deport all non-citizens. Denaturalize all fraudsters." He further added, "We start with Afghanistan. But we must not end there." Amid rising tensions, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that roughly 500 additional National Guard troops would be deployed to Washington. According to The Hill, the decision followed months after President Trump declared the capital a "crime free zone" during his summer crackdown and as troops were preparing to withdraw. In a Thanksgiving message, the White House posted, "God bless America''s National Guard, and all of our military and law enforcement." (ANI)
US President Donald Trump on Friday said that he would permanently pause migration from all "third-world countries", to allow the US system to terminate illegal admissions into the United States. This comes in the wake of the shooting of two National Guard service members in Washington, DC, on Wednesday by an Afghan national, which resulted in the death of one National Guard and left the other critically injured. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said, "I will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the US system to fully recover, terminate all of the millions of Biden illegal admissions, including those signed by Sleepy Joe Biden''s Autopen, and remove anyone who is not a net asset to the United States, or is incapable of loving our Country, end all Federal benefits and subsidies to noncitizens of our Country, denaturalize migrants who undermine domestic tranquillity, and deport any Foreign National who is a public charge, security risk, or non-compatible with Western Civilization." Trump said that these "goals" would be pursued with the aim of achieving a major reduction in illegal and disruptive populations, taking a dig at former President Joe Biden saying, "including those admitted through an unauthorized and illegal Autopen approval process." He further said, "Only REVERSE MIGRATION can fully cure this situation. Other than that, HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL, except those that hate, steal, murder, and destroy everything that America stands for -- You won''t be here for long!" https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/115625427648743414 Trump further said that the refugee burden is the leading cause of social dysfunction in America. "American Citizens and Patriots who have been so nice in allowing our Country to be divided, disrupted, carved up, murdered, beaten, mugged, and laughed at, along with certain other foolish countries throughout the World, for being "Politically Correct," and just plain STUPID, when it comes to Immigration. The official United States Foreign population stands at 53 million people (Census), most of which are on welfare, from failed nations, or from prisons, mental institutions, gangs, or drug cartels. They and their children are supported through massive payments from Patriotic American Citizens who, because of their beautiful hearts, do not want to openly complain or cause trouble in any way, shape, or form. They put up with what has happened to our Country, but it''s eating them alive to do so! A migrant earning $30,000 with a green card will get roughly $50,000 in yearly benefits for their family. The real migrant population is much higher. This refugee burden is the leading cause of social dysfunction in America, something that did not exist after World War II (Failed schools, high crime, urban decay, overcrowded hospitals, housing shortages, and large deficits, etc.)," he posted. The statement by Trump comes shortly after the US Citizenship and Immigration Services has issued a fresh set of guidelines in wake of the shooting of two national guards by an Afghan person on the eve of Thanksgiving in the United States. The new policy guidance would authorise USCIS officials to consider country-specific factors from 19 countries when reviewing immigration requests. In an official statement released on Thursday (local time), the USCIS said, that it will consider relevant country-specific factors when using its broad discretionary authorities regarding aliens from 19 high-risk countries after halting refugee resettlement from Afghanistan and the entry of Afghan nationals in the first year of the Trump administration. US President Donald Trump has announced the demise of one of the two National Guard soldiers wounded in the recent shooting that occurred blocks away from the White House. The deceased National Guard soldier has been identified as US Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, who hailed from West Virginia. Earlier, Trump denounced the shooting of two National Guard soldiers near the White House, describing it as a "horrific assault" and "an act of terror," as federal agencies continued to investigate the attack that took place a day before Thanksgiving. The shooting occurred at close range in central Washington, prompting a swift reaction from the administration. Addressing reporters, Trump criticised former president Joe Biden''s earlier immigration policies, claiming the suspect had entered the United States from Afghanistan in 2021, and referring to the Asian country as a "hellhole." Authorities identified the accused as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national who arrived in 2021. Officials believe he acted alone. Citing information from Homeland Security, Trump again noted that the suspect was Afghan. (ANI)
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi staged an overnight sit-in outside Adiala jail after being denied a meeting with PTI founder Imran Khan for the eighth consecutive time, Dawn reported. The protest began on Thursday afternoon and included members of the KP cabinet, with visuals shared by the PTI showing Afridi and party workers offering Fajr prayers outside the prison on Friday morning. According to Dawn, Afridi announced on the party's livestream that the sit-in was being wrapped up and that he would now approach the Islamabad High Court (IHC). "We will now go to the IHC to meet the chief justice," he said, wrapped in a beige shawl amid cold weather. He added that three IHC judges had ordered the meeting and directed the jail superintendent to arrange it. A three-member bench had earlier instructed Adiala authorities in October to allow a meeting between Afridi and Imran. Referring to previous court directives, the KP CM said, "Previous orders were very clear that Khan sahib would be allowed to meet his family and lawyers on Tuesdays and party leadership on Thursdays." He stressed that the court must ensure its orders are enforced, adding, "Otherwise, this is the law of the jungle." Dawn reported that Afridi expressed frustration over exhausting all "constitutional and legal" options to secure the meeting. "What other avenue is left for me to explore now?" he asked. Afridi further said he had not received an explanation for why repeated requests were being denied, adding that party leaders had developed suspicions due to the prolonged restrictions. He lamented that despite court orders, he, other PTI leaders, and Imran's family were not being permitted to meet the incarcerated party chief. Referring to an incident involving Imran's sisters outside Adiala last week, he said, "You have seen their condition yourself; they were grabbed by their hair and disrespected." Afridi accused authorities of using such "tactics" to "break the spirit" of the former prime minister. He also alleged that Imran's wife, Bushra Bibi, "who is a pious woman," was being targeted in an attempt to "break" Imran. "These tactics have no place in a civilised society," he added. Afridi expressed concern that courts were failing to ensure compliance with their directives. "I have not been allowed to meet him despite being here all day, all night, and it's morning now," he said. As Dawn detailed, Afridi had travelled to Rawalpindi on Thursday morning for the scheduled meeting, but the jail administration did not allow him to proceed. Police stopped him at Factory Naka, near Adiala jail, prompting the sit-in. He told reporters, "I told the police that I was stopped last time, and I am also being stopped this time." He added that he asked officers for a written explanation of why court orders were being defied but received none. Afridi said the situation was "worsening" and questioned why authorities continued to ignore court instructions. He remarked, "A province is being treated like a stepmother," adding that such treatment of a representative of 25 million people was unacceptable. "Would you like it if it happened to someone else in another province tomorrow?" he asked. He said no one, including Imran's sisters, doctors, lawyers, or party leadership, was being permitted to meet the PTI founder. "These people need to decide who they are standing with. If they continue with this attitude, then we will take a final option," he said, without elaboration. The PTI has also raised concerns over Imran's health, as he has been barred from meeting family and lawyers for more than three weeks. Former aide Zulfi Bukhari said no one had seen Imran since November 4, and no reason had been provided for denying meetings, Dawn reported. (ANI)
A Japanese court has upheld the country's ban on same-sex marriage as constitutional, making the Tokyo High Court the only high court so far to support the government's stance among six similar lawsuits filed nationwide, Kyodo News reported. The court ruled that current civil law provisions preventing same-sex couples from marrying remain reasonable under existing conditions. This contrasts with earlier high court decisions in Sapporo, Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka and Fukuoka, which found the lack of legal recognition for same-sex marriage to be unconstitutional, though all those rulings dismissed demands for compensation. In delivering the final judgment among the six lawsuits, Presiding Judge Ayumi Higashi stated that issues surrounding same-sex marriage "should first be thoroughly discussed in parliament." Kyodo News reported that the Supreme Court is expected to issue a unified decision sometime next year. In the latest case, eight plaintiffs aged between their 40s and 60s sought 1 million yen (USD 6,400) each in damages, arguing that the civil law's ban on same-sex marriage violates constitutional guarantees of equality and freedom of marriage. The government rejected the claim, asserting that the Constitution defines marriage as between a man and a woman, Kyodo News reported. The group had appealed a Tokyo District Court ruling from March 2024, which described the situation as "in a state of unconstitutionality" but dismissed their compensation request. Among the 12 high and lower court decisions issued so far, the Osaka District Court remains the only other court to have upheld the constitutionality of withholding legal recognition for same-sex marriage. Article 24 of the Constitution states, "Marriage shall be based only on the mutual consent of both sexes." Japan remains the only Group of Seven nation yet to legalise same-sex marriage or civil unions, despite increasing pressure from the LGBT community and its supporters. (ANI)
Russian President Vladimir Putin will pay a state visit to India from December 4-5 next month at the invitation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During the visit Putin will attend the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit and hold talks with PM Modi, according to an official statement by the Ministry of External Affairs on Friday. The President of India will also receive Putin and host a banquet in his honour. The visit will provide an opportunity for the leadership of India and Russia to review progress in bilateral relations, outline the vision for strengthening the ''Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership'', and exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest, the MEA statement said. The upcoming visit will mark Putin''s first to India since 2021. The two leaders last met in person on September 1 this year in Tianjin, China, on the sidelines of the SCO Summit. Kremlin has described Putin''s upcoming visit to India as an important moment for both nations. Russian state news agency TASS cited a Kremlin statement, "The visit is of great importance, providing an opportunity to comprehensively discuss the extensive agenda of Russian-Indian relations within the particularly privileged strategic partnership in the political, trade, economic, scientific, technological, cultural, and humanitarian spheres, as well as to consider topical international and regional issues." "These issues will be at the heart of negotiations with the Indian delegation led by [Prime Minister] Narendra Modi," the Kremlin said as per TASS. Building on this announcement, the Ministry of External Affairs had yesterday said that preparations for the annual summit are already underway, with Putin''s December arrival aligning with the state visit outlined by the MEA. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, responding to media queries during the weekly briefing, said the dates will be announced soon and noted that both nations are working to further strengthen bilateral ties. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Putin in Moscow last week ahead of the annual summit. Jaishankar had also conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi''s greetings during the meeting. Following the discussions, Jaishankar wrote on ''X'': "Honoured to call on President Putin of Russia in Moscow today. Conveyed greetings of Prime Minister @narendramodi. Apprised him of preparations underway for the upcoming Annual India-Russia Summit. Also discussed regional and global developments. Deeply value his perspectives and guidance on further advancement of our ties." Earlier this month, the Kremlin also said Russia is "actively preparing" for President Vladimir Putin''s visit to India, expected before the end of the year, according to state news agency TASS. Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov was quoted as saying that Putin''s visit is planned next month. The Russian Embassy in India also noted ongoing preparations, stating: "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." "We are currently actively preparing for Putin''s visit to India, which is planned before the end of this year. We hope that it will be a meaningful visit," Peskov said. India and Russia signed their Declaration on Strategic Partnership in 2000, establishing the framework for annual summits and cooperation across political, defence, economic and technological sectors. In 2010, the relationship was elevated to a "Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership." (ANI)
Speaking at an event at the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) office to mark the campaign '16 Days of Activism Against Technology-Based Gender Violence,' participants highlighted the state's apathy and a weak institutional response. The report highlighted the growing gap between legislation and enforcement, as reported by Dawn.

According to Dawn, Sadia Baloch, an HRCP Council Member and prominent rights advocate, stated that the country urgently needs to strengthen its support systems for survivors. "Women must know their legal rights and have access to trained personnel who can assist them in reporting abuse and pursuing justice," she said.

She added that combating gender-based violence (GBV) requires "sustained and collective action" rather than symbolic campaigns.

Advocate Shazia Nizamani from the Sindh Women Lawyers Alliance noted that conviction rates in GBV cases stand at a mere 1.2 per cent, mainly due to flawed investigations and judicial delays.

She stressed the absence of a centralised GBV database and the underfunding of crisis centres, shelters, and dedicated courts.

"Pakistan's 2010 anti-harassment law is barely enforced," she said, noting that nearly 90 per cent of workplaces have failed to form mandatory inquiry committees.

Nida Tanweer, HRCP Regional Coordinator, stated that the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) lacks both the resources and capacity to deal with digital GBV cases under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA).

"There must be a specialised unit to handle such complaints," she said, emphasising that fear, stigma, and poor awareness deter women from reporting abuse, as cited by Dawn.

Romasa Tunio, representing the Digital Rights Foundation, urged society to confront patriarchal mindsets and hold state institutions accountable. She called on men and youth to take an active part in awareness drives.

The participants demanded that the Pakistan government ensure strict enforcement of anti-harassment laws, provide safe complaint channels for women workers, and repeal regressive laws like PECA that restrict digital freedoms, Dawn reported. (ANI)
In a joint appeal, prominent international legal organisations have condemned what they described as Pakistan's "persistent judicial harassment" of human rights lawyers Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir and Hadi Ali Chattha, urging authorities to immediately drop all charges and ensure the protection of lawyers' rights, as reported by The Balochistan Post. According to The Balochistan Post, groups including Lawyers for Lawyers, the International Bar Association's Human Rights Institute, the Law Society of England and Wales, the International Commission of Jurists, and the International Observatory of Lawyers at Risk expressed grave concern over "procedural irregularities" in the ongoing trial. They alleged that the case seeks to punish the couple for their lawful criticism of Pakistan's security establishment and their advocacy for victims of state violence. The National Cybercrime Investigation Agency (NCIA) registered a case against Mazari and Chattha on August 22, accusing them of using social media to "incite linguistic divisions" and portray the armed forces as "involved in terrorism." The FIR, citing tweets from 2021 to 2025, targeted their criticism of enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and military operations in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. They were charged under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016, which carries a maximum sentence of up to 14 years in prison. Following their indictment on October 30, proceedings reportedly moved at "unprecedented speed." International legal bodies highlighted instances of judicial bias, including the arrest of Chattha despite his presence in court, hearings scheduled without due notice, and rejection of defence applications to replace state-appointed counsel. Several lawyers reportedly withdrew from representing the couple after facing intimidation, raising serious doubts about the trial's fairness, as reported by The Balochistan Post. In their open letter, the signatories stated that the prosecution forms part of a "wider campaign of intimidation" against lawyers and activists challenging Pakistan's powerful institutions. They reminded the government of its obligations under the UN Basic Principles on the Role of Lawyers and international human rights treaties. Pakistani authorities have not issued an official response to the appeal, as reported by The Balochistan Post. (ANI)
Amid growing public unrest, Pakistani citizens have strongly condemned the 27th Constitutional Amendment, calling it a direct assault on democracy and the rule of law. During protests and public gatherings, participants declared that their ongoing demonstrations were a necessary act of resistance against what they described as a "loser constitution" that must be questioned and rolled back. "The 27th Constitution imposed after the 26th is a loser, and it is necessary to question it," one protester said, voicing frustration over what many see as the government's systematic erosion of constitutional safeguards. The speaker added that if the authorities intended to dismantle the constitution altogether, "they should have simply said that the constitution is closed." Protesters accused the ruling establishment of acting as if the country belonged solely to them, disregarding public voices and constitutional limits. "Our laws are our own; we are the kings. This is a jungle, and the law of the jungle will run according to our will," one protester remarked, expressing anger at what they perceive as authoritarian behaviour by state institutions. Demonstrators further criticised the concentration of power within select circles of authority, warning that Pakistan cannot function as a "one-man show." "The country does not belong to them alone. Their borders have to be protected, so go there and do it," another participant asserted, urging those in power to fulfil their national duties instead of tightening control over the people. Public anger continues to build as protests spread to major cities, with participants calling for the restoration of judicial independence and genuine democratic accountability. Critics argue that the 27th Amendment has blurred the separation of powers, granting excessive influence to the executive while weakening institutional checks and balances. As dissatisfaction deepens, analysts warn that Pakistan faces a widening legitimacy crisis unless the government engages with the people's demands. (ANI)
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's remarks on Taiwan have sent a severely wrong signal to "Taiwan independence" separatist forces, Beijing said on Friday, as reported by Chinese state media. After Takaichi suggested that Tokyo could deploy military forces in the hypothetical event of a conflict in the Taiwan Strait, Beijing has increased diplomatic and economic pressure on Japan, seeking to force the Japanese Prime Minister to retract her November 7 remarks in Parliament. "Japan imposed colonial rule on the island of Taiwan for half a century, committing countless heinous crimes. The DPP authorities' act of "currying favour with Japan to seek independence" is despicable," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning was cited as saying by the Global Times on Friday in reference to the Democratic Progressive Party of Taiwan. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's remarks on Taiwan interfered in China's internal affairs, sent a seriously wrong signal to "Taiwan independence" separatist forces, and endangered peace and stability across the Taiwan Straits, the Chinese news outlet cited the foreign ministry spokesperson as saying. Chinese Embassy in Japan, meanwhile, has issued a fresh travel warning for Japan claiming the Japanese security environment has deteriorated. The second alert was issued on Wednesday night after an initial warning on November 14, Kyodo News reported. Beijing had on November 16 also urged its citizens to reconsider studying in Japan, citing safety risks. China also has suspended the resumption of Japanese seafood imports. Meanwhile, the Japanese news outlet reported yesterday, citing a government source that Takaichi and US President Donald Trump, during their phone call earlier this week, had discussed cooperation to calm tensions between Japan and China over her remarks on Taiwan. Kyodo cited the Wall Street Journal, which first reported that Trump had asked Takaichi not to aggravate the dispute with China. In an editorial published by the Communist Party in China Daily on Thursday, the United States was urged to rein in Japan to prevent "actions to revive militarism". Following the escalating diplomatic row, Takaichi said on Wednesday it is her "responsibility" to maximize Japan's interests by building good relations with China through dialogue. China also took its feud with Tokyo over Japanese Prime Minister's remarks on Taiwan to the United Nations. "If Japan dares to attempt an armed intervention in the cross-Strait situation, it would be an act of aggression," China's permanent representative to the UN, Fu Cong, wrote in a letter to the global body's Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, referring to the strait that separates mainland China from self-governing Taiwan, which Beijing insists belongs to China. Beijing has not ruled out the possibility of forcibly taking Taiwan. China's Foreign Ministry said that in his talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Trump said that he understands the importance of the Taiwan issue . After their talks on phone, Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Monday that China and the United States should keep up the momentum in ties, and keep moving forward in the right direction on the basis of equality, respect and mutual benefit, Xinhua reported. (ANI)
Astrologer Claire Petulengro

Astrologer Claire Petulengro

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 28th

ARIES (March 21st-April 20th)

You didnt just go through life, youve grown through it. You know now that trust is something which has to be built over time. You also know that sometimes it has to be a leap of faith you show in a heartbeat moment. What you do know is that youll never stay where you dont feel love now.

TAURUS (April 21st-May 21st)

The very person you thought would most let you down, is the one whos most supported you. You were wrong to cast judgement, but you were also right to keep your boundaries strong. Now though, its time to drop the manners and get to the raw emotion.

GEMINI (May 22nd-June 21st)

You must feel as if youve been on an emotional rollercoaster, but peace of mind comes from you bringing to the fore the questions you need in order to open your heart the whole way. Those who don't answer reveal their true colours, and lose your interest and respect.

CANCER (June 22nd-July 23rd)

You dont care who hears what you have to say, or watches the way youre reacting. But the whole point is you do care, which is why you began acting this way in the first place. Repair talks in both friendships and relationships get to a good place by the positivity you offer into the melting pot today.

LEO (July 24th-August 23rd)

Dare I say that there appear to be too many people involved in a decision which should involve only two. Dont tell tales on others, unless you want the same done to you. Those that you think you will not work with again, are more a part of your professional future than you currently realise.

VIRGO (August 24th-September 23rd)

Dont make promises you know you will not keep in our personal life today, Virgo. Its not just someone's emotions that are going to be hurt, but also their finances appear to be involved. Joint work projects decided upon at this time have the makings of success.

LIBRA (September 24th-October 23rd)

Family have made it hard for you to be honest with them about your personal life. You think they will judge you, but I see they only want to support you. Those who dont will also be outnumbered by those who always have and always will, be by your side.

SCORPIO (October 24th-November 22nd)

Saturn stations direct in Pisces and youre not scared of admitting your feelings anymore. In fact what you think is written all over your face. You dont want to play games anymore, and why should you? Youre playing for keeps, and for many of your sign, this is what youve waited years to hear.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23rd-December 21st)

Trust yourself, Sagittarius. You know more than you think you do. Professional changes you gravitate towards seem to show a different style to your work. You like this journey of growth and if others try to stunt it, then youll know to move on without them.

CAPRICORN (December 22nd-January 20th)

Its kind of fun to do the impossible. Dont think for a moment you have to be a version of someone else. Being you, unashamedly you, is what can see you turn something temporary into something both lasting and profitable. A great day for auditions and tests of all kinds.

AQUARIUS (January 21st-February 19th)

Its always too early to quit for an Aquarian, so those who think youll throw the towel in, are in for a big surprise. Toying with those youre in competition with, is part of your nature. But I also see its what can turn something playful into something permanent. You may not have prepared to fall, but thats what many of your sign are doing this month, and head over too.

PISCES (February 20th-March 20th)

Own who you are, or others will own you. Your eccentric boho eclectic mix is what makes you stand out from the crowd. Its also whats led to your most dramatic and interesting opportunities along the way too. Takeovers in work or investing in a more independent area as your focus, helps you build what youll want, and can, make permanent.

Visit Claires website to get more details, plus personal readings, audio horoscopes
The Ministry of Defence on Friday signed Letters of Offer and Acceptance (LOAs) with the United States Government for a five-year sustainment support package for the Indian Navy's MH-60R multi-role helicopters, valued at approximately Rs 7,995 crore. According to a release issued by the Defence Ministry, the agreements, concluded under the US Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programme, were inked in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. The ministry further stated that the sustainment package includes spares, support equipment, product support, training, technical assistance, repair and replenishment of components, and the establishment of intermediate-level repair and maintenance inspection facilities within India. "Sustainment Support is a comprehensive package which includes provisioning of spares, support equipment, product support, training and technical support, repair & replenishment of components and setting up of 'Intermediate' level component repairs & Periodic Maintenance Inspection facilities in India," the release stated. The ministry further stated that the in-country development of these capabilities would help reduce dependence on the US in the long term and align with the government's Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision by promoting indigenous services and product development through Indian companies and MSMEs. The MH-60R Seahawk fleet--equipped for anti-submarine warfare and designed for all-weather operations--will see improved operational availability and maintainability under the new support framework. The MoD noted that the sustainment programme will strengthen the Navy's ability to operate the helicopters from dispersed bases as well as from frontline warships, ensuring optimal performance across primary and secondary missions. The Indian Navy inducted the MH-60R Seahawk--the maritime version of the Black Hawk helicopter--into service back in March 2024 at INS Garuda in Kochi, marking a major milestone in the nation's defence modernisation efforts. The Seahawk fleet is being formed as INAS 334 squadron, and the helicopters are part of the 24-aircraft procurement signed with the US government under an FMS agreement in February 2020. The ministry also made the announcement of the Rs 7,995-crore pact in a post on X. "Ministry of Defence has signed Letters of Offer & Acceptance with the US Government for five-year sustainment support of the Indian Navy's MH-60R helicopters, valued at approx. Rs 7,995 crore. The FMS-route LOAs, inked in presence of Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh, will enable in-country repairs, training & maintenance facilities--boosting operational availability, capability build-up and Aatmanirbhar Bharat," the ministry stated. (ANI)
Councillor for French Citizens Abroad representing France in Hong Kong and Macau, Marc Guyon, on Friday called for deeper collaboration between France and India on technology and social issues, particularly in emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence, as well as addressing domestic challenges faced by France. Speaking to ANI on the sidelines of the Global Patriots Meet 2025 in New Delhi, Guyon, who is also an advisor to French expatriates for Hong Kong and Macau, praised India's growing global stature and urged stronger bilateral ties. He noted India's influence as part of the BRICS grouping, stating that the country has a "very important role" in developing ties with the member countries, as well as maintaining good relations with Western nations, particularly France. "India plays a very important role in the world order across everything. Today we talked a lot about economics, education, AI, safety, politics, security, and so on. India is part of the BRICS. I think it has to play a very important role in developing relationships with Russia, China, Brazil, and so on, while at the same time maintaining good relations with the Western world, especially France," Guyon said. "I hope France and India can collaborate more on issues like AI and on solving the problems we face in France. We talked about it today, the protest, the unions and so on," he added. Earlier this month, France's Special Envoy for Artificial Intelligence (AI), Anne Bouverot, declared that 2026 will be the year of French-Indian innovation, highlighting the deepening collaboration between the two nations ahead of the AI Impact Summit 2026 to be hosted in India. In an interview with ANI, Bouverot expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, showing her support for the ties between the two countries in advancing AI development. "2026 will be the year of French-Indian innovation. And that's a great opportunity to get our ecosystems, our startups, to work together," she said. "I'm here to help support this partnership between our two countries in doing that. I think we have a very good alignment between the vision from France and the vision from India that AI needs to be useful for our people, our users, and our citizens. And therefore, I'm very interested in any use cases in agriculture, commerce, education, and healthcare," the special envoy added. The India-AI Impact Summit 2026, announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the France AI Action Summit this year, is scheduled to take place from February 19 to February 20 in the national capital and will be the first-ever global AI summit hosted in the Global South. Building on the momentum of leading international forums such as the UK AI Safety Summit, the AI Seoul Summit, the France AI Action Summit, and the Global AI Summit on Africa, this high-level convening marks a critical inflexion point. According to the official website, the summit will strengthen existing multilateral initiatives while advancing new priorities, deliverables, and cooperative frameworks - moving from high-level political statements to demonstrable impact and tangible progress in global AI cooperation. Meanwhile, speaking on India's strengths on the global stage, the Councillor said the country's large population and unique capabilities give it a critical role in shaping global economic, cultural, and technological dynamics, emphasising the importance of exploring areas where India can contribute to the world order, both in terms of innovation and international cooperation. "India has the largest population in the world, and it has a lot of strengths that many countries don't have nowadays, so I think we have to see where India can contribute to the world order in terms of everything, economics, culture and so on," he noted. The Councillor was speaking on the sidelines of the eighth conference of Global Patriots Meet 2025. (ANI)
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand Sihasak Phuangketkeow will undertake a four-day official visit to India, accompanied by his spouse, Waraporn Phuangketkeow. In a release issued by the Ministry of External Affairs on Friday, the Foreign Minister will arrive in India on Saturday, November 29. His visit will continue till December 2. According to the MEA release, the delegation will arrive in New Delhi on November 29. During the visit, the Thai Foreign Minister will hold official engagements in the capital on November 30. On December 1, Sihasak Phuangketkeow will meet his counterpart, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, at Hyderabad House for bilateral discussions. The delegation will depart from India on December 2, the MEA release added. Earlier in April, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was in Bangkok, Thailand, to attend the 6th BIMSTEC Summit. He went to the Southeast Asian country on an official visit at the invitation of Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra. During his visit, PM Modi added new vigour to the bilateral friendship between the two nations during a meeting with his Thai counterpart, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, by elevating the bilateral ties to a Strategic Partnership. India and Thailand also exchanged memorandums across a range of sectors, including the Joint Declaration on the Establishment of the India-Thailand Strategic Partnership. An MoU was also exchanged between the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society of Thailand and India's Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology on Cooperation in the fields of Digital Technologies. The Sagarmala Division of India's Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways and the Fine Arts Department of Thailand's Ministry of Culture exchanged an MoU for the development of the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) at Lothal, Gujarat. An MoU was also signed between National Small Corporation Ltd. (NSIC) and the Office of Small and Medium Enterprises Promotion (OSMEP) of Thailand on co-operation in the field of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises. The Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDONER) and Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs exchanged an MoU. An MoU was also exchanged between North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation Ltd (NEHHDC) and Thailand's Creative Economy Agency (CEA). India and Thailand have historically enjoyed warm and cordial relations. In contemporary times, diplomatic relations between the two countries were established in 1947, and both sides celebrated the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties in 2022. (ANI)
The death toll from Cyclone Ditwah in Sri Lanka has risen to 69, with 34 people still missing as of Friday, as the country continues to face severe weather conditions. India commenced Operation Sagar Bandhu to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to the affected island nation. According to The Daily Mirror Online, citing Sri Lanka's Disaster Management Centre (DMC), the adverse weather, which began on November 16, has affected 219,286 individuals from over 63,000 families across the country. The DMC further reported that four houses have been destroyed, while 666 others suffered partial damage. As part of the operation, Indian naval ships INS Vikrant and INS Udaygiri handed over relief materials to Sri Lankan authorities in Colombo, as confirmed by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in a post on X. "Operation Sagar Bandhu commences. INS Vikrant and INS Udaygiri hand over relief material at Colombo. Further steps are underway," Jaishankar said in his post. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his heartfelt condolences to the people of Sri Lanka, who have lost loved ones due to Cyclone Ditwah. In a gesture of solidarity, PM Modi stated that India has dispatched relief materials and vital Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) support under Operation Sagar Bandhu. "My heartfelt condolences to the people of Sri Lanka who have lost their loved ones due to Cyclone Ditwah. I pray for the safety, comfort and swift recovery of all affected families. In solidarity with our closest maritime neighbour, India has urgently dispatched relief materials and vital HADR support under Operation Sagar Bandhu," PM Modi said in a post on X. He further noted India's humanitarian help to Sri Lanka is guided by its "Neighbourhood First policy and Vision MAHASAGAR". "We stand ready to provide more aid and assistance as the situation evolves. Guided by India's Neighbourhood First policy and Vision MAHASAGAR, India continues to stand firmly with Sri Lanka in its hour of need," the Prime Minister added. In its latest forecast, the Sri Lankan Meteorological Department warned of very heavy rainfall exceeding 200 mm in parts of the Northern, North-Central, Central, North-Western, Sabaragamuwa and Western Provinces, The Daily Mirror Online reported. Rainfall above 150 mm is also expected in the Trincomalee, Badulla, Galle, and Matara districts. The department further cautioned that other regions of the island may experience fairly heavy showers above 75 mm. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Friday provided a further update on Cyclonic Storm Ditwah, which is currently over coastal Sri Lanka and the adjoining southwest Bay of Bengal. According to the IMD, the storm has been moving north-northwestward at 7 kmph over the past 6 hours. As of 1730 hrs IST on November 28, the cyclone was centred near latitude 8.7N and longitude 80.9E, approximately 40 km west-northwest of Trincomalee, 140 km northwest of Batticaloa in Sri Lanka, 270 km south-southeast of Karaikal, 380 km south-southeast of Puducherry, and 490 km south of Chennai. "The Cyclonic Storm Ditwah [Pronunciation: Ditwah] over coastal Sri Lanka and adjoining southwest Bay of Bengal moved north-northwestwards with the speed of 7 kmph during past 6 hours and lay centered at 1730 hrs IST of today, the 28th November 2025 over the same region, near latitude 8.7N and longitude 80.9E, about 40 km west-northwest of Trincomalee (Sri Lanka), 140 km northwest of Batticaloa (Sri Lanka), 270 km south-southeast of Karaikal (India), 380 km south-southeast of Puducherry (India) and 490 km south of Chennai (India)," the IMD stated in a post on X. The department further warned that the storm is very likely to continue moving north-northwestwards across the Sri Lanka coast and the adjoining southwest Bay of Bengal. It is expected to reach the southwest Bay of Bengal near North Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and the adjoining south Andhra Pradesh coasts by the early morning of November 30. "It is very likely to continue to move north-northwestwards across Sri Lanka coast & adjoining southwest Bay of Bengal and reach over southwest Bay of Bengal near North Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and adjoining south Andhra Pradesh coasts by early morning of 30th November," it added. Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake today also issued an extraordinary gazette notification designating several key sectors as essential services, as reported by The Daily Mirror Online. The services now classified as essential include electricity supply, distribution of petroleum products and fuels (including gas), hospitals, water supply, and public transportation. The Sri Lankan Ministry of Health and Mass Media also announced a one-week health emergency from November 28 to December 4 to ensure uninterrupted medical services in the wake of the ongoing disaster, The Daily Mirror Online reported. (ANI)
In a post on X, the Official Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, Randhir Jaiswal, said, "Augmenting Afghanistan's healthcare efforts. India has delivered 73 tonnes of life-saving medicines, vaccines and essential supplements to Kabul to cater to urgent medical needs. India's unwavering support to the Afghan people continues."

https://x.com/MEAIndia/status/1994358783771132263?s=20

The Ministry of External Affairs on November 3 said that India delivered food items for families affected by the earthquake in Afghanistan. Jaiswal shared images of aid sent by India.

"Reaffirming its support to the Afghan people, India delivers food items for the families affected by the earthquake. India's first responder," Jaiswal said in a post on X.

https://x.com/MEAIndia/status/1985323730932002970?s=20

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday called his Afghanistan counterpart Amir Khan Muttaqi to convey condolences at the loss of lives in an earthquake that struck Balkh, Samangan and Baghlan provinces of the landlocked nation.

Jaishankar said that the Indian relief material is being distributed, and supplies of medicines will reach soon.

In a post on X, Jaishankar said, "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 supplies of medicines to reach soon," he said.

https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1985310475325001759?s=20

The earthquake of magnitude 6.3 struck northern Afghanistan near the city of Mazar-i-Sharif in the early hours of Monday at around 2:00 am IST, killing at least 20 people and injuring over 300 others.

https://x.com/NCS_Earthquake/status/1985085880802173408?s=20

"Discussed progress in our bilateral relationship since his visit. Welcomed the improving people-to-people contacts between India and Afghanistan. Appreciated the exchange of views on the regional situation," the EAM added.

Afghanistan's shrine of Mazar-i-Sharif, also known as The Blue Mosque, was seen damaged after the 6.3 magnitude earthquake. (ANI)
A four-member delegation from the Russian Land Forces visited formations of the Indian Army from November 26 to 28 with the objective of strengthening defence cooperation and sharing expertise. The Indian Army said that the visit focused on the exchange of knowledge in the field of "integrated safety and security of defence infrastructure." "The visit aimed to facilitate expert exchange in the field of 'Integrated Safety and Security of Defence Infrastructure. The delegation's interactions reflected the enduring spirit of defence cooperation, innovation and strategic partnership, further strengthening the long-standing defence ties between India and Russia," the Army posted on X. Russian President Vladimir Putin will pay a state visit to India from December 4-5 next month at the invitation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During the visit, Putin will attend the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit and hold talks with PM Modi, according to an official statement by the Ministry of External Affairs on Friday. The President of India will also receive Putin and host a banquet in his honour. The visit will provide an opportunity for the leadership of India and Russia to review progress in bilateral relations, outline the vision for strengthening the 'Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership', and exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest, the MEA statement said. The upcoming visit will mark Putin's first to India since 2021. The two leaders last met in person on September 1 this year in Tianjin, China, on the sidelines of the SCO Summit. Kremlin has described Putin's upcoming visit to India as an important moment for both nations. Russian state news agency TASS cited a Kremlin statement, "The visit is of great importance, providing an opportunity to comprehensively discuss the extensive agenda of Russian-Indian relations within the particularly privileged strategic partnership in the political, trade, economic, scientific, technological, cultural, and humanitarian spheres, as well as to consider topical international and regional issues." (ANI)
Ahead of Vladimir Putin's scheduled visit to India, foreign affairs expert Robinder Sachdev highlighted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Russian President need to discuss the path ahead, given the emergence of a new world order. "At this time of the early 21st century, when a new world matrix is under construction...the world order is crumbling and a new world order is emerging. At this juncture, it becomes extremely important what the two leaders discuss and what the path ahead is," Sachdev told ANI. He said that India-Russia relations remain "strategic, trusting, and have gone deeper", especially after the Ukraine war. Despite the US imposing 25 per cent additional tariffs, he added, India continued to buy crude oil from Russia. "Definitely, the relationship between Russia and India is very strategic, very trusting, and I would say that after the Ukraine war, India-Russia relations have gone even deeper and more mature. India stood by Russia and kept buying crude oil despite the tariffs," Sachdev said. Russian President Vladimir Putin will pay a state visit to India from December 4-5 next month at the invitation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During the visit, Putin will attend the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit and hold talks with PM Modi, according to an official statement by the Ministry of External Affairs on Friday. The President of India will also receive Putin and host a banquet in his honour. The visit will provide an opportunity for the leadership of India and Russia to review progress in bilateral relations, outline the vision for strengthening the 'Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership', and exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest, the MEA statement said. The upcoming visit will mark Putin's first to India since 2021. The two leaders last met in person on September 1 this year in Tianjin, China, on the sidelines of the SCO Summit. Kremlin has described Putin's upcoming visit to India as an important moment for both nations. Russian state news agency TASS cited a Kremlin statement, "The visit is of great importance, providing an opportunity to comprehensively discuss the extensive agenda of Russian-Indian relations within the particularly privileged strategic partnership in the political, trade, economic, scientific, technological, cultural, and humanitarian spheres, as well as to consider topical international and regional issues." "These issues will be at the heart of negotiations with the Indian delegation led by [Prime Minister] Narendra Modi," the Kremlin said as per TASS. Building on this announcement, the Ministry of External Affairs had yesterday said that preparations for the annual summit are already underway, with Putin's December arrival aligning with the state visit outlined by the MEA.MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, responding to media queries during the weekly briefing, said the dates will be announced soon and noted that both nations are working to further strengthen bilateral ties. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Putin in Moscow last week ahead of the annual summit. Jaishankar had also conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's greetings during the meeting. Following the discussions, Jaishankar wrote on 'X': "Honoured to call on President Putin of Russia in Moscow today. Conveyed greetings of Prime Minister @narendramodi. Apprised him of preparations underway for the upcoming Annual India-Russia Summit. Also discussed regional and global developments. Deeply value his perspectives and guidance on further advancement of our ties." Earlier this month, the Kremlin also said Russia is "actively preparing" for President Vladimir Putin's visit to India, expected before the end of the year, according to state news agency TASS. India and Russia signed their Declaration on Strategic Partnership in 2000, establishing the framework for annual summits and cooperation across political, defence, economic and technological sectors. In 2010, the relationship was elevated to a "Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership." (ANI)
Former Diplomat KP Fabian said that Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to India in December will be significant for the entire world, as both nations may deepen bilateral relations, focusing on defence cooperation. "It is a very important visit, significant not only for India, but also for Russia and the rest of the world. It is taking place amid geopolitical change, with many uncertainties surrounding this move. India and Russia may engage in deeper bilateral relations, including cooperation in defence," Fabian told ANI. Meanwhile, Foreign Affairs Expert Robinder Sachdev said that India-Russia relations remain "strategic, trusting, and have gone deeper", especially after the Ukraine war. Despite the US imposing 25 per cent additional tariffs, he added, India continued to buy crude oil from Russia. "Definitely, the relationship between Russia and India is very strategic, very trusting, and I would say that after the Ukraine war, India-Russia relations have gone even deeper and more mature. India stood by Russia and kept buying crude oil despite the tariffs," Sachdev said. Russian President Vladimir Putin will pay a state visit to India from December 4-5 next month at the invitation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During the visit, Putin will attend the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit and hold talks with PM Modi, according to an official statement by the Ministry of External Affairs on Friday. The President of India will also receive Putin and host a banquet in his honour. The visit will provide an opportunity for the leadership of India and Russia to review progress in bilateral relations, outline the vision for strengthening the 'Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership', and exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest, the MEA statement said. The upcoming visit will mark Putin's first to India since 2021. The two leaders last met in person on September 1 this year in Tianjin, China, on the sidelines of the SCO Summit. Kremlin has described Putin's upcoming visit to India as an important moment for both nations. Russian state news agency TASS cited a Kremlin statement, "The visit is of great importance, providing an opportunity to comprehensively discuss the extensive agenda of Russian-Indian relations within the particularly privileged strategic partnership in the political, trade, economic, scientific, technological, cultural, and humanitarian spheres, as well as to consider topical international and regional issues." "These issues will be at the heart of negotiations with the Indian delegation led by [Prime Minister] Narendra Modi," the Kremlin said as per TASS. Building on this announcement, the Ministry of External Affairs had yesterday said that preparations for the annual summit are already underway, with Putin's December arrival aligning with the state visit outlined by the MEA. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, responding to media queries during the weekly briefing, said the dates will be announced soon and noted that both nations are working to further strengthen bilateral ties. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Putin in Moscow last week ahead of the annual summit. Jaishankar had also conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's greetings during the meeting. Following the discussions, Jaishankar wrote on 'X': "Honoured to call on President Putin of Russia in Moscow today. Conveyed greetings of Prime Minister @narendramodi. Apprised him of preparations underway for the upcoming Annual India-Russia Summit. Also discussed regional and global developments. Deeply value his perspectives and guidance on further advancement of our ties." Earlier this month, the Kremlin also said Russia is "actively preparing" for President Vladimir Putin's visit to India, expected before the end of the year, according to state news agency TASS. India and Russia signed their Declaration on Strategic Partnership in 2000, establishing the framework for annual summits and cooperation across political, defence, economic and technological sectors. In 2010, the relationship was elevated to a "Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership." (ANI)
Michael B. Jordan thinks his performance as Smoke in Sinners should earn him an Oscar nomination.

Michael B. Jordan thinks his role as Smoke in Sinners should earn him an Oscar nod

The 38-year-old actor starred in director Ryan Cooglers vampire movie as the Smokestack Twins, and Jordan thinks his performance as the calm, collected World War I veteran should be recognised by the Academy.

During an interview with Comic Book Resources, he said: As much fun as I had with Stack, which was a lot of fun, I think for me, probably Smoke.

I think Smoke will probably be my guy. You know, it's a side of me I think it's the furthest away from me.

Both characters were extremely tough for me to dive into, and build them from the ground up, and from the research we were doing and from the twin consultants that we talked to, and the work that I did to compartmentalize with the two of them.

Coogler added Jordan was closer to Stack as a person, but the Creed star insisted Smoke was the role to beat.

He said: If I had to put my money on somebody, it'd be Smoke.

In Sinners, twin gangster brothers Smoke and Stack (Jordan) return to their Mississippi hometown in 1932 to open a Black-owned juke joint under the noses of the KKK, hoping to leave their criminal pasts behind.

When a charismatic vampire preacher (Jack OConnell) unleashes a supernatural nightmare on the town, the twins, their musician cousin Sammie (Miles Caton), and a tight-knit community must decide what theyre willing to sacrifice to survive - and to stay free.

The flick also stars Hailee Steinfeld, Wunmi Mosaku, Delroy Lindo, Jayme Lawson and Omar Benson Miller.

On a production budget of approximately $90 million, Sinners grossed $367.8 million worldwide, with a taking of $279.6 million domestically and $88.2 million in other territories.

Following the commercial and critical success of Sinners, talk of a potential sequel began to intensify, but Coogler has since insisted the film will not get a follow-up.

In interview with Ebony magazine, he said: Ive been in a space of making franchise films for a bit, so I wanted to get away from that.

I was looking forward to working on a film that felt original and personal to me and had an appetite for delivering something to audiences that was original and unique.

The Black Panther director wanted moviegoers to watch Sinners and come away with the feeling it was a holistic and finished thing.

He added: I wanted the movie to feel like a full meal: your appetizers, starters, entrees and desserts, I wanted all of it there. I wanted it to be a holistic and finished thing.

That was how I was asked all about it. That was always my intention.
Ways of fostering maritime security cooperation between Morocco and India were at the center of talks held by Rear Admiral, Inspector of the Royal Moroccan Navy Mohamed Tahin in India with Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi.

Discussions focused on enhancing naval engagement, structured training exchanges and collaboration in maritime domain awareness, said a release issued by the Indian Defense ministry.

According to press reports, talks between the two top navy officials also covered defense exports, collaboration in defense industries, joint and multilateral exercises.

The working visit of Rear Admiral Mohamed Tahin to India (Nov.24-27) included a wreath-laying at the National War Memorial and engagement at key maritime establishments such as Information Fusion Centre-Indian Ocean Region (IFCIOR), Weapon and Electronic System and Engineering Establishment (WESEE), as well as training establishments of the Indian Navys Southern Naval Command at Kochi, they said.

The visit, which marks a key milestone in India-Morocco naval relations, aimed at deepening cooperation and promoting shared maritime interests.
On 27 November 2025, President Kais Saied instructed Foreign Minister Mohamed Ali Nafti to deliver a second firmly formulated protest to a foreign State representative in Tunisia, following an initial protest sent two days earlier.

Meeting at Carthage Palace, Saied emphasised the imperative of respecting diplomatic protocol and national sovereignty, declaring that any disregard for these principles would not be tolerated. He stressed that Tunisias sovereign decisions are non-negotiable and that foreign actors must acknowledge the countrys history and the will of its people before offering assessments or advice.

The directive comes after Tunisia formally protested to European Union ambassador Giuseppe Perrone on 25 November, regarding actions outside recognised diplomatic procedures. Saied highlighted that certain foreign parties timing was premeditated, coinciding with a court ruling, and warned that any attempts at confrontation would be met with an appropriate response.

He reaffirmed that Tunisia will never renounce its sovereignty or the will of its citizens, underscoring the nations determination to assert its independence in international affairs.
Norways State Secretary Andreas Motzfeldt Kravik clarified on Thursday, November 27, that the United States has not submitted any new truce proposals for Sudan, a statement welcomed by Sovereign Council head and Army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan. The clarification comes after Burhan publicly rejected what he described as a fresh U.S. plan earlier this month.

On 23 November, Burhan told supporters that U.S. presidential adviser Massad Boulos had circulated a document suggesting the disbandment of the army while leaving the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) intact. He called it the worst paper and warned that mediators risked losing neutrality. Kravik, visiting Port Sudan, reported that Boulos confirmed there was no new U.S. document or proposal on a humanitarian truce, attributing earlier reports to a misunderstanding.

Sudanese Foreign Ministry under-secretary Muawiya Osman noted that Burhan welcomed this frank clarification, with similar assurances received directly from Washington. Burhan also praised U.S. President for their peace efforts and reaffirmed the governments readiness to engage positively to end the 20-month conflict.
204 items in this article 204 items on sale! Photo-Illustration: The Strategist; Photos: Retailers

Editors note: Cyber Monday has officially started, and were no longer updating this Black Friday post. You can find all the best Cyber Monday fashion deals here, and you can find all of our Cyber Monday coverage here.

Its the most wonderful time of the year for a deal with Black Friday officially here. While the whole month of November has turned into Black Friday, some retailers dont open up their biggest discounts until today. I know a thing about Black Friday; its my fourth year covering the shopping holiday for the Strategist. If Prime Day is the Strategists Super Bowl, then Black Friday is our Olympics.

Across the board, this years Black Friday fashion deals are the same as last years. But if youre wondering where to go first, its the mall brands. Not only for the inventory online but for nearly everything being on sale. For example, the Gap is offering 50 percent off and Banana Republic, 40 percent off. (I myself will be getting a lot of shopping done at J.Crew; under Olympia Gayot, it might be better than I can ever remember.) This is the only time of the year retailers like Cos and & Other Stories have sitewide sales, too. Thats all to say, theres a lot of fashion to shop this Black Friday. Here are all the Black Friday fashion deals worth shopping. For more Black Friday deals, check out our deal editors definitive guide. Be sure to sign up for the Strategist Sales Alert newsletter to get all our Black Friday and Cyber Monday coverage as well.

Deals I personally think are the best Over at Old Navy, the discounts are between 50 percent and 60 percent off, and these Jennifer Lawrence-y track pants that our senior writer Lauren Ro just ordered are down to $20. Meanwhile, Alex Mill opened up its Friday-ish Sale, with up to 50 percent off select styles. The striped version of its Nico cardigan (which Strategist readers bought last Black Friday) is less than $100. And as New York deputy editor Alexis Swerdloff says, the Boden sale is honestly kind of amazing. She likes this scarf, for instance; its 40 percent off right now.

Agnes B.s Snap Cardigans  the Chanel tweed jacket of New York  are 30 percent off with code BFOREVER.

Some Alex Mill is cheaper elsewhere (like Tuckernuck or Shopbop, which are both featured below), but there are plenty of great finds at Alex Mills own Black Friday-ish sale, like a Nico cardigan for 40 percent off.

This years Amazon deals are so good, you might even be able to knock out your entire holiday gifting list before December gets here  a holiday shoppers dream, says our writer Dominique Pariso. For more Amazon Black Friday deals, be sure to check out her roundup here.

Take it from a former Anthropologie employee: The best deal all year at Anthropologie is the week of Black Friday, when theres 30 percent off sitewide and theres an extra 50 percent off sale items. Surprisingly, some pairs of Colettes, a favorite of Anthropologie employees, are marked down (something that doesnt happen often, either).

During Aritzias Black Fiveday Sale, get 20 to 50 percent off everything. Plus, get 10 percent off the Super Puff. (Its not the biggest discount, but this is one of the few times its ever on sale.)

All Baggus  from the Standard Baggu to the Baby Baggu (and even the collaboration with Molly Goddard)  are 25 percent off.

Banana Republic finally feels like the same brand that had Nora Ephron and Hunter S. Thompson write product reviews for its mail-order catalogue. Thats to say, its very good now. You can try it out for yourself with 40 percent off your full-price purchase (this includes its normally pricey cashmere) and up to 50 percent off sale items.

Banana Republic Factory is offering 60 percent off everything, with an additional 20 percent off at checkout for Black Friday. If you only buy one thing, let it be a pair of Haydens (a Strategist reader-favorite work pants). I cant remember the last time they were $29. For more Banana Republic Factory Black Friday deals, check out our deal writer Alexandra Polks roundup here.

Ban.dos offering 35 percent off sitewide with code ITSHERE. But the bigger deal might be all the Le Bon Shoppe thats marked down 25 percent.

Select items at Bloomingdales labeled BLACK FRIDAY are 25 percent off. But the best deals are on C by Bloomingdales cashmere: A lot of it is at least half-off.

Select styles are 40 percent off, while everything else is 20 percent off.

Brooke Callahans colorful clothing basics are now 25 percent off with code BF25.

Catbirds biggest sale of the year is here, with 20 percent off sitewide. Anything fine and shiny would make a great gift, whether its the tiniest alphabet charm in diamonds or an engraved signet ring.

Oui, bien sur: Theres Le Sale at Clare V., or 20 percent sitewide.

Take up to 60 percent sitewide through December 2.

For The Row (on a budget): Get 25 percent off sitewide at Cos.

Doens annual Giving Thanks Sale has arrived with up to 70 percent off past-season styles. (Note that all sales are final.)

The Dr. Martens site is taking up to 40 percent off select styles through the end of the month. Theres a lot on sale, for everyone from todand include styles, for everyone from newborns to adults.

For Black Friday, Everlanes offering 40 percent off everything and hundreds of select styles for up to 70 percent off. The Strategist staff cant get enough of its basics, be it a high V-neck cashmere sweater or a turtleneck thats described as tight enough that it doesnt bunch up underneath things, but not, like, Uniqlo Heattech tight. For more Everlane Black Friday deals, be sure to check out our writer Arielle Avilas roundup here.

Welcome to the Gapnaissance, which might be even more welcome now with 50 percent sitewide, including CashSoft and the matching separates for a sweat suit moms love. Plus select items are Really Big Deals, or 60 percent off.

Gap Factory

Over at Gaps outlet store, Gap Factory, everythings between 50 and 70 percent off.

Everything at Hill House Home, home of the Nap Dress, is 25 percent off with the code EVERYTHING25.

J.Crews Black Friday deals include 50 percent off almost all full-price items and an additional 60 percent off items in its sale section with the code FRIDAY. Plus, get 30 percent off cashmere, chinos, and suiting separates. (As with previous J.Crew sales, roll-necks are excluded.)

Kule, one of our favorite places for stripes, is offering 30 percent off sitewide with the code BF30.

Our contributor Erika Veurink made the case for shopping at Lands End: It feels cool to wear something thats impossible to identify. Or on sale (more often than not, its version of the Boat and Tote will be marked down). This Lands End sale is as good as it gets: up to 50 percent off sitewide, plus an extra 12 percent off at checkout with code FRIDAY50.

All of Lesets high-quality  and high-priced  basics are 30 percent off, including markdowns (including the Barb Crew Cardigan appeared on our Fall 100).The discount is automatically applied at checkout.

Take 30 percent off full-price items and an extra 30 percent off sale items, at the very fun Lisa Says Gah.

Get up to 40 percent off select items from Loeffler Randall with the discount shown at checkout.

Many of the athleisure brands coveted running tights and yoga pants are already 50 percent off in lots of cute colorways. Also heavily discounted: marathon-ready sports bras and running tees and shorts that will last for years without losing their shape in the wash, says our writer Katherine Gillespie about Lululemons Black Friday sale. For more deals, check out her roundup here.

During Madewells Black Friday Event, get 40 percent off full-price items and up to 70 percent off sale items with code LETSGO. Select jeans, like the Longline Straight, are also marked at just $50 (or, over 60 percent off, if youre doing the math). Unfortunately, Madewells collaboration with Alexa Chung is excluded from all discounts.

Not only is Margaux offering 20 percent off sitewide for Black Friday, Margauxs collaboration with Alex Mill is included in the promotion.

Get up to 50 percent off sitewide at one of our favorite places for affordable cashmere, Naadam.

For discounted designer goods, your best bet is Net-a-Porter. Its sale opened up on Monday with up to 50 percent off.

Select styles up to 60 percent off at Nordstrom. But new markdowns are going quickly. You know what to do. For more Nordstrom Black Friday deals, be sure to check out our roundup here.

Nearly everything at Old Navy is on sale for up to 60 percent off.

The new Outdoor Voices (under old co-founder Ty Haney) is 40 percent off. Maybe get yourself another Exercise Dress.

Find your next wedding-guest dress (or just a high V-neck sweatshirt) for 25 percent off at Reformation.

Rothys machine-washable (and recycled from plastic bottles) shoes are up to 30 percent off, while the mary janes Veurink walked 10,000 steps around Florence in are almost half-off.

Name brands like Alex Mill, &Daughter, Still Here, and Staud are 25 percent off with the code HOLIDAY at Shopbop.

Use code SHOWTIME to get 25 percent sitewide (or 30 percent off orders over $1,000) at the preppy Tuckernuck.

Much of the selection at Urban Outfitters is 40 percent off, with name brands like Puma, Ugg, and Baggu between 25 and 30 percent.

& Other Stories offers 30 percent off sitewide for Black Friday.

get the strategist newsletter Actually good deals, smart shopping advice, and exclusive discounts. Email This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Vox Media, LLC Terms and Privacy Notice By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Notice and to receive email correspondence from us.

The Strategist is designed to surface useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Every product is independently selected by our team of editors, whom you can read about here. We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.
Guinea-Bissaus ousted president, Umaro Sissoco Embalo, has fled to neighbouring Senegal after being detained during a military coup that once again plunged the country into uncertainty.

Dakar confirmed on Thursday that Embalo had arrived aboard a military aircraft chartered by the Senegalese government, even as accusations swirled that he may himself have had a hand in the power grab.

The move comes amid heightened tensions following Sundays presidential and parliamentary elections, the results of which were due to be announced this week.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Soldiers seized control on Wednesday, detaining key political figures and shutting down much of the capital, Bissau.

The United Nations has denounced the coup, with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemning what he called an unacceptable violation of democratic principles and urged the immediate and unconditional restoration of constitutional order.

The intervention has underscored a growing international fatigue with West Africas cycle of coups  this being the regions tenth in five years, following military takeovers in Mali, Guinea, Sudan, Burkina Faso, Niger, Gabon and, most recently, Madagascar.

Guinea-Bissau general sworn in as transitional president following coup

Disputed elections

Despite the UNs stance, the military has pressed ahead with entrenching its authority.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

General Horta NTam, the armys chief of staff and a figure seen as close to Embalo in recent years, was named transitional leader for a year-long period.

I have just been sworn in to lead the High Command, he announced from military headquarters, flanked by heavily armed soldiers.

As the generals moved to consolidate control, a rival version of events emerged from opposition candidate Fernando Dias da Costa.

Speaking to French news agency AFP from hiding, Dias claimed he had in fact won the election  possibly with around 52 percent  and alleged that Embalo had orchestrated the coup to prevent him taking office.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

I am the president [elect] of Guinea-Bissau, he insisted, adding that the events unfolding were organised by Mr Embalo, not a coup in the traditional sense.

The upheaval followed a contentious electoral process. Dias became the main opposition contender only after the Supreme Court barred long-standing opposition figure Domingos Simoes Pereira from standing.

Pereira was arrested on Wednesday, while Dias said he escaped his campaign HQ just as armed men arrived to detain him.

Observers warn of deepening crisis after Guinea-Bissau military takeover

International concern

Since gaining independence from Portugal in 1974, the country has endured four successful coups and several failed attempts. With results often disputed and political factions frequently at loggerheads, moments of stability tend to be short-lived.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Regional and international bodies have reacted sharply to the coup, with the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) suspending Guinea-Bissau from its decision-making bodies.

The African Union has condemned the coup outright, while the European Union has urged a swift return to constitutional rule and the electoral process.

(with AFP)
Global geothermal investment is entering a period of accelerated growth, with capital expenditure (capex) expected to climb about 20% annually through 2030, according to Rystad Energys latest geothermal economics model. This momentum comes as geothermal energy, produced by tapping heat from deep within the earth, is no longer defined only by mature hubs in Southeast Asia and the US. Interest in regions such as Africa and Europe has been building at a measured pace, contributing to a steady broadening of activity worldwide. Meanwhile, the distribution of spending remains relatively stable across development categories due to consistent cost structures in drilling, surface facilities and steamfield infrastructure.

Currently, just over half of total spending goes toward surface facilities, while an estimated 47% is directed to subsurface work and about 2% is allocated to pre-final investment decision (FID) activities. This distribution is broadly consistent across most markets, making this cost structure a defining aspect of geothermal development. Even the relatively small share devoted to pre-FID work can represent a significant risk, as early exploration determines whether a project advances or is halted altogether. The distribution of costs helps explain why project timelines and financing needs remain relatively uniform across regions, even as overall activity grows.

Global investment in geothermal energy is gaining momentum as more projects move toward FID. Our research shows that geothermal energy is increasingly being tailored to regional needs, reflecting its dual role as a source of clean, reliable power and a provider of heat. In the US, growth is being driven by the expansion of enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) and rising demand for baseload power from data centers. Europe, on the other hand, is focusing on decarbonizing heat, while Southeast Asia is turning to geothermal to meet growing electricity demand. The sectors longer-term potential in cooling applications is growing as well, a market set to expand alongside global data center activity thats less considered,

Alexandra Gerken, Vice President, New Energies Analysis, Rystad Energy



Learn more with Rystad Energys Geothermal Solution.

When comparing geothermal deployment across continents, Europe stands out as a market dominated by district heating, driven by ambitious decarbonization targets and extensive municipal heating networks. In contrast, Asia, particularly Indonesia, and North America focus primarily on electricity-generating geothermal projects, reflecting strong baseload power needs and abundant geological resources. This divergence shapes both installed capacity and investment patterns. Europe relies more on subsurface development for heating despite lower surface infrastructure costs, while Asia and North America exhibit a more balanced demand between drilling and surface power facilities.

Beyond regional deployment differences, geothermal energys role as a clean, reliable source of baseload power is gaining importance. EGS reduces site dependence by requiring only hot rock rather than aquifers, unlocking additional clean power potential and providing stable baseload heat. The technology also shows long-term promise in cooling applications. Pilot projects in the Middle East are exploring its use for data centers, including the UAEs first geothermal cooling plant, the G2COOL project.

Further research from Rystad Energy, using a bottom-up approach, examines each geothermal asset and its individual cost components, including drilling operations, equipment, and surface infrastructure, rather than focusing solely on total project costs or subsurface development. Geothermal projects are primarily used for district heating systems or power generation, and the resource stands out as one of the few energy sources capable of providing clean baseload power, meaning it can deliver a steady and reliable energy supply.

Costs are often expressed in dollars per watt, which indicates the investment required to produce one watt of energy. On this basis, district heating projects generally require about half the investment of geothermal power plants. This difference arises because heating systems do not require expensive turbine sets or complex surface infrastructure, which are essential for electricity generation. In contrast, geothermal power projects involve more extensive facilities and intricate designs, resulting in roughly $6 per watt for power versus around $3 per watt for district heating.

These cost differences are important for policymakers, investors, and developers when assessing project feasibility, choosing technologies, and planning long-term geothermal development. Understanding these relative costs helps guide decisions on which projects to prioritize and how to maximize the value of geothermal resources.

By Rystad Energy

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
Crude oil is holding gains ahead of Sunday's OPEC+ meeting, while U.S. natural gas prices have spiked on the news of a new U.S. LNG export record.

Friday, November 28, 2025

As Russia-Ukraine peace talks drag on, dampening last weeks hopes that a swift resolution could be around the corner, ICE Brent has settled comfortably around $63 per barrel by the end of this week. Low US traded volumes on the back of Thanksgiving, exacerbated by a once-in-a-decade CME blackout, have added to the pricing lull. OPEC+ is an unlikely candidate to sway sentiment in either direction as the November 30 meeting is widely expected to result in a rollover.

OPEC+ Expected to Roll Over Production Quotas. As OPEC+ countries meet this Sunday to discuss production plans for January 2026, the market expectation is that the so-called 'Great Eight' will keep its quota unchanged compared to December, concurrently mulling respective members' capacity.

CME Outage Disrupts WTI Trading. Cooling issues with the CyrusOne data center in Dallas have led to the world's largest exchange operator, CME, halting trade on its platforms, disrupting trading of WTI futures on Friday in a market that routinely trades 26 million contracts per day.

Syria Plans Major Upstream Recovery. The government of Syria has announced plans to boost crude production in the embattled country to 200,000 b/d, doubling current output rates, alongside downstream expansion plans that include the construction of a new 150,000 b/d refinery.

Related: OPEC+ Expected to Extend Pause on Oil Hikes as Prices Stay Weak

Canada Doubles Down on Pacific Egress. Canada's federal government signed a memorandum of understanding with the province of Alberta to build a new oil pipeline wielding a whopping 1 million b/d capacity to connect oil sands to the Pacific Ocean, with construction expected to start in 2029.

Africa's Most Recent Military Coup Derails Oil Ambitions. A military coup led General Horta Nta Na Man toppled the president of Guinea-Bissau, sending shockwaves across upstream markets as US major Chevron (NYSE:CVX) signed a major two-block exploration deal less than a month ago.

Argentina Pulls in Partners to Boost Uruguay Drilling. Argentina's state oil firm YPF has reached an agreement with Italy's ENI for a farm-in into its offshore exploration venture in neighboring Uruguay, hoping to replicate the success of Namibia's Orange Basin that wield similar geological characteristics.

Drones Strike Kurdistan's Largest Gas Field. A drone attack that hit a liquid storage tank shut the 0.75 BCf/d Khor Mor gas field in Iraq's semi-autonomous Kurdistan region, triggering widespread outages across the region as Iraqi militias continue striking the Dana Gas-operated asset.

UK Keeps Windfall Tax but Flags More Auctions. After UK oil industry was shocked by the Starmer government's decision to keep the 78% windfall tax in place until 2030, the authorities vowed to soften their stance on new oil and gas permits, provided they're close to currently producing assets.

Venture Global's Beef with Shell Turns Official. US LNG developer Venture Global (NYSE:VG) has accused energy giant Shell (LON:SHEL) of waging a 'three-year' campaign to damage its business after the latter appealed against its recent arbitration loss, potentially worth $1 billion.



Hungary Mulls Plans to Save Serbian Refining. As Serbia's only refining asset in Pancevo has entered cold circulation and could be soon halted due to US sanctions on Russia, Hungary's MOL is considering buying Gazprom's 11% stake in Serbias national oil company NIS and boosting oil exports there.

Profiting From High Margins, China Wants Refineries to Run. With middle distillate cracks shooting through the roof, much to the benefit of Chinese product exporters, the country's Commerce Ministry has issued its first batch of 2026 crude import quotas for private refiners, totaling 8 million tonnes.

Canada Greenlights This Year's Top M&A Deal. The Canadian government approved Anglo American's (LON:AAL) proposed $20 billion takeover of mining peer Teck Resources (NYSE:TECK) on national security grounds, leaving the country's economic benefit review as the last remaining regulatory hurdle.



Lebanon and Cyprus Delineate Their Maritime Border. The governments of Lebanon and Cyprus have signed a long-anticipated maritime demarcation deal this week, mirroring initial agreements from 2007 as Lebanon seeks to expand its exploration area, still yet to wield any commercially viable discoveries.

Germany Calls for Softer EU Car Bans. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has suggested easing the European Unions 2035 complete ban on sales of combustion-engine cars, saying that highly efficient conventional vehicles should be allowed beyond 2035 to save the continents ailing car industry.

By Tom Kool for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
Sentiment in oil markets remains overwhelmingly negative, driven by perceived market oversupply and negative global demand indicators. Brent crude for January delivery was trading at $63.10 per barrel in Thursdays intraday session, little changed from $62.97 a week ago while the corresponding WTI contract ticked up slightly to $58.70/bbl from $58.46. Meanwhile, the recent rally in oil product prices has cooled off, with ICE Gasoil-Brent crack dropping from a 35.84/bbl peak on 18 November to ~$26/bbl. This is partly due to the easing of panic over the delivery specification into the ICE gasoil futures contract.

Market focus remains firmly on the supply-side, with a view that any progress towards a ceasefire in Russias war in Ukraine could lead to easing of heavy U.S. sanctions on Russian producers. The Trump administration has drafted a new 19-point peace plan thats far more favorable to Ukraine compared to the original 28-point plan. Some of the critical amendments in the new plan include no handover of the Donbas region to Russia for free, no automatic veto on Ukraine joining NATO in the future, and provision of Article 5-style protection for Ukraine, meaning the U.S. would be bound to intervene if Russia invades in the future. A proposal for full amnesty for war crimes that was part of the first plan has also been removed.

Related: OPEC+ Expected to Extend Pause on Oil Hikes as Prices Stay Weak



China remains the leading buyer of Russian crude, with imports increasing by 275.6 kb/d over the past two months to ~2.15 mb/d. Overall, Chinas crude imports have increased by 866 kb/d Y/Y to 11.44 mb/d as the country continues to stockpile crude. Rystad Energy estimates that China has stockpiled more than 1 million barrels of crude per day in some months, socking away nearly 160 million barrels in the first nine months of 2025. The buying spree has been triggered by strategic concerns like energy security and potential conflicts, as well as taking advantage of low oil prices. China is expected to continue stockpiling crude oil at least through 2026, supported by new laws and infrastructure development that allow for greater storage capacity, though some analysts suggest the pace might slow as storage limits are reached.

Related:

Potential U.S. intervention in Venezuela has also added to the bearish sentiment after the Trump administration designated Cartel de los Soles, which it alleges is led by President Maduro, as a foreign terrorist organization. The US Operation Southern Spear has been targeting boats suspected of trafficking drugs in the region, with the hawks linking the moves to Venezuelas 303 billion barrels of proven oil reserves, the largest of any country.

Venezuelan oil production has been on a sharp decline since 2017, with a slew of sanctions prohibiting its access to financial markets. However, production has been slowly rising, from 360 kb/d in 2020 to around 1 mb/d currently, supported by black-market sales. However, commodity analysts at Standard Chartered have pointed out that it will take years before the South American country can hit peak production of around 2.5 mb/d that it achieved in the 2011-2015 period thanks to years of underinvestment in maturing oil fields as well as a lack of exploration drilling. Shortages of equipment, supplies and labour have also taken a toll on Venezuelas energy sector. Further, the country is likely to have a hard time attracting fresh capital after the ConocoPhilips (NYSE:COP) debacle. The Venezuelan government under the late Hugo Chavez, and continued under Nicolas Maduro, expropriated ConocoPhillips' oil assets in 2007 during a wave of nationalizations of foreign oil investments. This led to ConocoPhillips receiving two major international arbitration awards totaling over $8 billion. Venezuela's attempts to annul the awards have failed, and ConocoPhillips is now pursuing legal avenues to enforce the rulings and collect the compensation from Venezuela's remaining overseas assets, such as those related to the Citgo refinery.

On the gas front, European natural gas prices have softened, with the front-month Dutch Title Transfer Facility (TTF) contract for December delivery settling below EUR 30 per megawatt hour

(MWh) at EUR 29.5/MWh, its lowest settlement in 18 months. European natural gas inventories drew by 3.76 billion cubic metres (bcm) to 91.97bcm on 23 November, according to Gas Infrastructure Europe. This marks the largest weekly fall in inventories since late February 2025. Recent cold weather has not supported prices, and there are now mild forecasts for the rest of December.

In contrast, U.S. gas prices have continued rallying, with gas futures hitting $4.6/MMBtu on falling inventories coupled with expectations of higher demand. Weather forecasts suggest temperatures will remain mostly below normal over the next two weeks, boosting demand. Further, U.S. LNG exports are rising, with flows averaging a record 18 bcfd in November, up from Octobers 16.6 bcfd.



By Alex Kimani for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
Jools Hollands annual Hootenanny is set to ring in the New Year with a star-studded lineup, led by Rolling Stone Ronnie Wood.

Ronnie Wood is among the stars set to ring in the New Year with Jools Holland

Wood will mark six decades in music by performing tracks from his recent anthology release, Fearless. Joining him is neo-soul sensation Olivia Dean, fresh from a breakthrough year that has cemented her as one of Britains brightest new talents.

Scottish icon Lulu will return to the stage alongside Jools and his band, while Jessie J adds her powerhouse vocals to the night. Fans can also look forward to garage king Craig David, making his first appearance on the show in 25 years.

The celebration continues with Heather Small, the unmistakable voice of M People, who will deliver two of the groups biggest anthems: the dance-floor classic Moving On Up and the inspirational Search for the Hero.

Indie giants The Kooks will also take to the stage, performing timeless classics from their album Inside/Inside Out, ahead of its upcoming 20th anniversary, plus a track from their most recent record, Never/Know.

Frontman Luke Pritchard said: Were so excited to be back on Hootenanny. Big love to Jools for inviting us down to celebrate the New Year; its always such an honour and a genuine joy to be part of the show.

He added: Weve been completely blown away by the reception Never/Know has had. The support, the messages, the crowds singing it back to us; its meant the world. Doing this show feels like the perfect way for us to say thank you to everyone whos been with us on the journey this year.

In keeping with the Hootenannys tradition of showcasing jazz, soul, and boogie-woogie, the lineup also features Imelda May, Mercury Prize-shortlisted pianist Joe Webb, drummer and vocalist David Hermlin, and the ever-vibrant Ruby Turner, hailed as the Queen of Boogie Woogie.

The episode will air on BBC Two on December 31 and will be available on BBC iPlayer.
From the beginning of Donald Trumps first term in office in 2017 to the start of his second term earlier this year, the relationship between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia shifted between tense and downright hostile. Those years included an Oil Price War, the de facto Saudi leader labelled a murderer, and all lines of communication between the two sides grinding to a complete halt. However, as Trump and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) sat next to each other at a black?tie dinner at the White House last week  with the former designating the latters country as a major non-NATO ally -- all this must have seemed a distant past, and as L.P. Hartley put it: They do things differently there. So, how does the future for the worlds top superpower and one of its top hydrocarbons powers look from here?

It is apposite to note here that this is not a meaningless designation from the U.S. for Saudi Arabia. Only 19 other countries -- Argentina, Australia, Bahrain, Brazil, Colombia, Egypt, Israel, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Kuwait, Morocco, New Zealand, Pakistan, the Philippines, Qatar, South Korea, Thailand, and Tunisia  have such a standing in Washingtons eyes. Taiwan also has the same de facto designation, but does not officially enjoy the label, given the U.S.s complicated One China policy. Saudi Arabias new-found status also brings with it a host of economic and military advantages in its dealings with the U.S. and its allies, according to the State Department. These include eligibility for loans of material, supplies, or equipment for cooperative research, development, testing, or evaluation purposes, as well as for being a location for the placing of U.S.-owned War Reserve Stockpiles. Saudi Arabia will also now be able to enter into agreements with the U.S. for its security forces training on a bilateral or multilateral basis, will be eligible for the priority delivery of excess defence articles (including C-130 Hercules aircraft or frigates, at low or zero cost), and for the purchase of depleted uranium ammunition. It will also be entitled to enter into agreements with the U.S. Department of Defense for research and development projects on defence equipment and munitions, and to procure explosives detection devices and other counter-terrorism research and development projects, among many other advantages. In short, Saudi Arabia is officially now regarded by the U.S. and its allies  including NATO members  as one of ours.

Related: OPEC+ Expected to Extend Pause on Oil Hikes as Prices Stay Weak

That said, this unofficial designation  and the official major non-NATO ally counterpart  comes with its own obligations for Saudi Arabia. Beginning from a broad perspective, the Kingdom will be expected to tilt more towards the interests of the U.S. and its allies than those of the China-Russia bloc, regardless of the issue, and regardless of what has gone before. The years of cosying up with China after the devastating financial impact of the 2014-2016 Oil Price War of OPEC members, led by Saudi Arabia, on the U.S. and its allies -- analysed in full in my latest book on the new global oil market order  are expected to count for nothing going forward. Nor is the adjunct relationship normalisation deal brokered by China between Saudi Arabia and Iran, as the same highly-placed Washington-based legal source exclusively told OilPrice.com last week. In any direct conflicts of interest like this, we [the U.S.] expect Saudi to be on our side from now on, he underlined. A firmer line from Saudi Arabia is expected by the U.S. to be drawn on the issue of the Kingdoms earlier drift towards the formal economic, political, and security cooperation structures with China and Russia at their centres. This particularly applies to the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) which Saudi Arabia joined as a dialogue partner in March 2023. And Saudi Arabias continued support for the ongoing expansion of Chinas multi-generational power-grab project, The Belt and Road Initiative is also expected by Washington to be toned down. This equally carries through into Saudi Aramcos dealings with China, which had been characterised by chief executive officer Amin Nasser in the comment: Ensuring the continuing security of Chinas energy needs remains our highest priority  not just for the next five years but for the next 50 and beyond, as also fully detailed in my latest book.

Instead of its formerly Sino-centric posture, Saudi Arabia is now expected by Washington to adopt an actively positive stance in the rollout of Trumps broader vision for the Middle East. Just as in his first presidential term, this involves building out relationship normalisation deals between key Arab states and the U.S.s longstanding core ally in the region  Israel. This Abraham Accords initiative had seen some success in that first term in office, with notable signatories being the UAE and Bahrain, before Trumps tenure was cut short by his loss to Joe Biden in November 2020. However, there had been signs from MBS even then that he might look favourably on the Kingdom signing such a deal, albeit at a point after King Salmans death. Given Saudi Arabias diplomatic and mediatory stance during the recent Israeli attacks on Hamas and Iran  themselves a response to the murder, torture and rape of hundreds of Israeli citizens by Hamas on 7 October 2023  Washington is quietly confident that an Abraham Accord by whatever name will be reached between Saudi Arabia and Israel in the near future. Indeed, Saudi Arabia (alongside Qatar  another major non-NATO ally, and Oman) reportedly relayed messages between Tehran and mediators from the U.S.-Israeli side, helping to shape ceasefire conditions.

The final part of Saudi Arabias obligations from the U.S. side will be full cooperation on the oil price. Specifically, Washington expects active assistance in the oil markets to keep oil prices within the Trump Oil Price Range, as fully analysed in my latest book on the new global oil market order. Suffice it to say here, this sits roughly between a Brent price floor of US$4045 per barrel (pb, the breakeven price plus a bit of profit for the bulk of U.S. shale oil producers) and a ceiling of US$7580 pb (which ties into historical data showing that a gasoline price of under US$2 per gallon has been most advantageous for U.S. economic growth)  and the range is critical to Trump from an economic and political perspective. On the former, historical data highlights that every US$10 pb or so change in the price of crude oil results in around a 25-30 cent change in the price of a gallon of gasoline, and for every 1 cent that the average price per gallon of gasoline rises, more than US$1 billion or so per year in consumer spending is lost. On the latter, since 1896, the sitting U.S. president has won re-election 11 times out of 11 if the economy was not in recession within two years of an upcoming election. However, sitting U.S. presidents who went into a re-election campaign with the economy in recession won only once out of seven occasions. The same pattern broadly applies to the re-election chances of candidates of any sitting presidents party in U.S. mid-term elections as well. Trump may find a way to run again for President, but even if he does not, his Republican Party will want to optimise their chances for another of their members to be in the top job.

By Simon Watkins for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
Oil prices were headed for a fourth consecutive monthly loss early on Friday as a data center glitch forced CME Group to halt trading in futures and options, disrupting oil futures trades as well as equities, bonds, and foreign exchange.

Due to a cooling issue at CyrusOne data centers, our markets are currently halted, CME Group, of which NYMEX is part, said in early Asian trade on Friday.

Support is working to resolve the issue in the near term and will advise clients of Pre-Open details as soon as they are available.

Just before the technical outage that halted live trades in commodities, equities, and bonds, WTI Crude futures traded at $59.08, up by 0.73%.

Brent Crude futures on the ICE exchange were down by 0.11% at $63.27 as of 5:55 a.m. ET.

The trading halt in WTI Crude futures stoked concerns that volatility may be higher when live trading resumes on the last trading day of November.

At any rate, both crude benchmarks were on track to post their fourth monthly loss in a row, amid concerns about oversupply. At the OPEC+ meeting this weekend, producers from the group are expected to stick with their decision to pause oil production increases in the first quarter of 2026.

Traders are also watching the negotiations the U.S. is trying to broker about ending the war in Ukraine, with some expecting that a potential deal could ease sanctions on Russian energy flows.

Crude prices are heading for their steepest run of monthly losses since 2023, pressured by rising supply from producers both outsideand increasingly insidethe OPEC+ group, analysts at Saxo Bank said in a Friday note.

This weeks brief hope of a Russia-Ukraine peace deal also weighed on sentiment, though that prospect has since faded. WTI and Brent remain firmly rangebound, with the latter stuck in a broad USD 6067 corridor.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
Ukraine hit the Saratov refinery of Russian oil giant Rosneft in the Volga region on Friday, Ukraines General Staff said, in what was the second attack on the refinery in recent months as the Trump Administration continues with its efforts to broker a peace deal.

As part of efforts to reduce the military and economic potential of the Russian aggressor, during the night of 28 November, units of the Defence Forces of Ukraine struck the Saratov Oil Refinery in Russias Saratov region, Ukraines General Staff said on their Telegram channel.

The facility produces more than 20 types of petroleum products, including gasoline, fuel oil, diesel fuel and technical sulphur, and is involved in supporting the needs of the Russian occupation army.

Ukraine said that a series of explosions was recorded, followed by a fire in the target area. The results of the strikes are being clarified.

A similar attack on the Saratov refinery in August prompted the facility to halt the intake of crude oil.

Last week, Rosnefts refinery at Ryazan, Russias fourth-largest, was said to have suspended crude processing after a Ukrainian drone attack over the November 15-16 weekend.

In recent weeks, Ukraine has intensified attacks on Russias oil refineries, depots, and export terminals in an escalation of the war on energy infrastructure, which has also seen Russia targeting Ukraines gas producing facilities and gas and power distribution networks as temperatures drop.

The targeting of energy infrastructure continues from both sides as the Trump Administration intensified in the past week efforts to broker a peace agreement.

Earlier this week, reports emerged that Ukraine had mostly agreed to a peace deal, with minor details to discuss and settle.

White House envoy Steve Witkoff will travel to Moscow next week to discuss the peace plan with the Kremlin.

On Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin doubled down on Moscows demand that it would stop the war only if Ukraine withdraws from territories Russia has already seized.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
As the Trump Administration looks to broker a Ukraine-Russia peace deal, analysts and traders seek to anticipate how a potential agreement could change energy flows in Europe.

To be sure, a peace deal is far from certain, as stumbling blocks and differences remain, while Russia has not weighed in on the plan yet. White House envoy Steve Witkoff will travel to Moscow next week to discuss the peace plan with the Kremlin as Russia appears reluctant to accept any offer that doesnt fully meet all its demands.

Even if a deal is reached  and this is not the base case scenario of many traders and observers  it is unlikely to change Europes reluctance to return to the Russian energy dependence which it has fought so hard to shake off. Most analysts say even a clean ceasefire wouldnt meaningfully shift Europes stance after 2022.

Going off Russian pipeline gas cost European households and industries a lot as energy bills and industry costs surged. More than three years after the energy crisis began to take its toll on Europes cost of living and competitiveness, the prospect of eased energy flows from Russia is not particularly appealing to most of the EU.

No Turning Back

Russian gas has not been banned in the EU, and will not be for another year. As-is, the EU aims to stop LNG imports from Russia from 2027.

Its unlikely that a peace deal would reverse Europes course to cut off dependence on Russian energy once and for all.

Europe also doesnt have an easy way to restart Russian pipeline flows even if a peace deal landed tomorrow. Nord Stream is physically destroyed, YamalEurope has been shut since Poland terminated its contract, and Ukraines own transit agreement with Gazprom expires next year with no political appetite to renew it. The hardware, contracts, and politics simply dont line up for a quick return.

Related: UK Risks Gas Shortages in 2030s as Domestic Output Plunges

Even if sanctions on Russia's energy sector were eased, European governments would be reluctant to re-embrace Moscow as a core supplier after the shock of 2022, Reuters columnist Ron Bousso wrote in his opinion column this week.

Indeed, most EU member states havent received Russian gas for three years and many dont plan to return depending on the Kremlin for supply even if a fair peace deal for Ukraine is reached.

After three difficult years, and especially winters, with soaring gas prices in Europe, this year prices have held in a narrow trading range despite the fact that European gas storage sites were filling at a slower pace ahead of the winter compared to previous years. Storage levels are about 10 percentage points lower than at this time last year and the five-year average. As of November 25, gas storage sites across the EU were about 77% full, according to data from Gas Infrastructure Europe.

Despite the lower levels of gas in storage, the market appears to believe that Europe will have enough supply this winter, mostly thanks to record U.S. LNG exports, most of which are going to Europe right now.

Even if Russian pipeline gas magically came back into play, Europe has already rebuilt its entire supply picture around LNG.

Strong LNG Flows Ease Winter Supply Concerns

The U.S. exported 10.1 million metric tons of LNG in October, per data from LSEG cited by Reuters, becoming the first country ever to ship out more than 10 million metric tons in a single month. The start-up of Venture Globals Plaquemines export project and the ramp-up of Chenieres Corpus Christi Stage 3 facility led the increase.

Europe took almost 69% of all U.S. LNG exports last month, the LSEG data showed.

The U.S. is set to further boost its LNG exports in the coming months and years.

The U.S. is expected to export 14.9 billion cubic feet per day of LNG this year, up by 25% from 2024, the Energy Information Administration (EIA) said in its latest Short-Term Energy Outlook (STEO) this month. Plaquemines LNG in Louisiana has ramped up exports more quickly than the EIA expected, leading the administration to raise its forecast of LNG exports in the current quarter by 3% compared with last months outlook. The EIA expects U.S. LNG exports to increase by an additional 10% in 2026.

The supply wave of U.S. LNG will continue through this decade as LNG developers are taking advantage of market and regulatory tailwinds to approve investments in new projects.

Supply from Qatar is also set to rise as the worlds second-largest LNG exporter after the U.S. is hiking production and export capacity in the biggest LNG expansion ever. Qatar looks to boost its export capacity by a whopping 85% from current levels by 2030.

The LNG supply wave is good news for Europe, if the EU moves to significantly scale back its Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), which places additional barriers to LNG flows to Europe, and even penalties on companies.

The EU is working to rewrite the proposed legislation, fearing its supply security is at stake.

With the start of the winter heating season amid lower-than-usual inventories, Europes gas prices havent spiked as in previous winters.

On the contrary, the benchmark price at the TTF hub in Amsterdam slipped below the key threshold of 30 euros per megawatt-hour (MWh) this week, for the first time in a year and a half, amid strong LNG flows, milder temperatures, and negotiations about the end of the war in Ukraine.

In a sign that gas supply conditions in France and Europe have stabilized, French supermajor TotalEnergies will demobilize its LNG floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU) in the port of Le Havre, which was installed in 2022 to serve as a safety net for gas supply. The floating terminal is no longer necessary, TotalEnergies said this week.

Another sign of a well-supplied market is that portfolio managers have turned increasingly bearish on European gas.

The latest positioning data showed that speculators shifted from a net long to a net short position on the Title Transfer Facility (TTF) futures for the first time since March 2024, according to ING.

The move was once again driven by fresh shorts entering the market, which pushed the gross short to yet another record high, ING strategists Warren Patterson and Ewa Manthey said on Thursday.

This large short position leaves a fair amount of positioning risk, if any supply or demand surprises emerge through the winter.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
Colombias Ecopetrol is pressing ahead with a 2026 spending plan of 2227 trillion pesos ($5.9$7.2 billion), essentially holding the line from this year despite a political climate that couldnt be more hostile to hydrocarbons. The company says the money will be deployed with discipline, which in Ecopetrol-speak means: drill aggressively enough to keep the lights on, but not so aggressively that Bogota accuses you of sabotaging the energy transition.

The plan calls for 380430 development wells next year, almost all in Colombia, plus a handful of exploratory wells. Around 70% of the total budget is earmarked for production, with Ecopetrol forecasting 730,000740,000 boe/d in 2026  basically the same level it fought to maintain in 2025 after hitting record H1 output of 751,000 boe/d. The kicker is that the entire plan is based on $60 Brent and a 4,050 peso exchange rate, both conservative assumptions that tell you the company expects no favors from the macro backdrop.

The bigger story is what Ecopetrols spending says about Colombias bind. President Gustavo Petro has halted new exploration, banned fracking, and layered on new taxes that gutted foreign investment  all while proven reserves have shrunk to barely eight years of supply. Yet production remains the countrys main export earner and one of the last reliable sources of fiscal revenue. That contradiction leaves Ecopetrol doing the heavy lifting: sweating existing fields harder, squeezing lifting costs below $12/bbl, and leaning on U.S. Permian acreage to diversify away from Colombias political risk.

The companys partners have taken the hint. Foreign investment in Colombias oil sector has eroded for a decade, with majors scaling back or walking away entirely. Ecopetrol has responded by pursuing production-sharing deals on mature fields and doubling down on blocks like CPO-09, where its own finds are some of the few bright spots left.

Ecopetrols 2026 blueprint isnt trying to impress anyone; its a survival plan dressed up as a budget. The government keeps tightening the leash on exploration, reserves are shrinking, and foreign investors are jittery. Someone has to keep the barrels flowing, and right now that someone is Ecopetrol. The company is doing what it can with the ground it already controls: drill whats drillable, squeeze every peso out of efficiency, and buy time for a country that hasnt decided what should replace oil and still depends on it more than almost anything else.

By Julianne Geiger for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
Germany will plead with the EU to allow plug-in hybrids and highly efficient conventional cars to be sold in the bloc even after the effective ban on gasoline and diesel passenger cars in 2035, Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Friday as the government looks to prop up its massive but currently ailing auto manufacturing industry.

The ruling coalition in Germany has decided to seek some exemptions from the hard deadline of 2035, the chancellor of Europes biggest economy said on Friday.

In 2023, the EU member states approved an emissions regulation under which the bloc will end sales of new carbon dioxide-emitting cars and vans in 2035.

Merz said he would send a letter today to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen seeking reprieve for some technologies as the ruling coalition understands how precarious the situation in the automotive industry is.

The auto industry in Germany, Europes largest and most important, has suffered in recent months from the U.S. tariffs, the Chinese curbs on rare earth exports, falling EU demand, and competition from the cheaper vehicles made in China.

The German government wants to maintain the competitiveness of the automotive industry without compromising climate targets, Merz said today, as carried by Bloomberg.

Our common goal should be to achieve innovation-friendly and technology-neutral regulations that reconcile climate protection and industrial competition, the German chancellor said.

As early as last year, Germanys car manufacturing giant BMW warned that the EU ban on the sale of gasoline and diesel cars from 2035 is no longer realistic amid slow EV sales, as the European auto industry will see a massive shrinking with such a ban.

In June this year, Germanys key car industry association VDA called on Germany and the EU to enable the flexibility and technological openness required to achieve climate targets to ensure the industrys competitiveness.

Brussels must respond to the changing global situation. Achieving the ambitious climate targets must be strategically linked to maintaining competitiveness, VDA said.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
Crude oil and natural gas from overseas, including Russia, are important for Japans energy security, the countrys economy ministry told Reuters this week, noting the Sakhalin-1 oil and gas project in Russias Far East.

Japan government continues to recognize that securing energy from overseas, including the Sakhalin Project, is extremely important for Japan's energy security, the statement said. We will take necessary measures to ensure that Japan's stable energy supply is not compromised, the ministry also said.

Japans Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry was responding to a question by Reuters regarding the latest U.S. sanctions on Rosneft, Russias biggest oil producer and a shareholder in the Sakhalin-1 project, which also has the Japanese economy ministry as a shareholder. The project used to be operated by Exxon, but the supermajor left Russia in 2022.

Rosneft has 20% in Sakhalin-1, Indias ONGC Videsh holds another 20%, and a Japanese consortium comprising the economy ministry and several energy companies holds 30%. When the sanction barrage on Russia started following its invasion of Ukraine, the Japanese companies and the ministry were granted an exemption from the punitive action due to the countrys overwhelming dependence on foreign energy commodities.

Since then, Japanese government officials have repeatedly stated Japan would find it difficult to quit Russian energy. Besides Sakhalin-1, which exports crude oil to Japan, the country also buys liquefied natural gas from the Sakhalin-2 project. Russian LNG accounts for about 9% of Japans total liquefied natural gas imports. Utility JERA imports the gas from Sakhalin-2 under contracts expiring in 2026 and 2029

Last month, following President Donald Trumps suggestion that Japan stop buying Russian energy commodities, the government reiterated its stance, with the economy minister noting the country had been steadily reducing its dependence on Russian energy.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) and its partner, Heirs Energies, have successfully doubled natural gas production at a key oil block, OML 17, as part of a broader strategy to boost domestic supply and ease the country's electricity shortages.

The increase comes from the OML 17 oil and gas field, operated by Heirs Energies in a joint venture with the NNPC. A "rigless well intervention" unlocked an additional 135 million standard cubic feet of gas per day (MMscf/d), enough to feed multiple power plants, directly contributing to an increase in electricity generation capacity by over 350MW.

Nigeria's overall daily average gas production reached 7.59 billion standard cubic feet per day (Bscf/d) in July 2025, marking a sustained increase over recent years.

Western energy majors including Shell Plc (NYSE:SHEL), Chevron Corp. (NYSE:CVX), TotalEnergies SE (NYSE:TTE) and Seplat Energy Plc have increased gas output in a bid to strengthen Nigeria's electricity supply for industries and households. Average daily electricity generation clocked in at 5,700 MW in the final quarter of 2025, an increase from 4,100 MW in Q4 2023.

Meanwhile, ongoing and completed infrastructure projects are set to further boost Nigerias domestic gas supply. The newly commissioned Assa North-Ohaji South (ANOH) gas plant, considered Nigeria's largest, is expected to deliver up to 850 MMscf/d. Other critical infrastructure projects, such as the Obiafu-Obrikom-Oben (OB3) gas pipeline, are part of the effort to expand the gas network and meet increasing domestic demand.

That said, Nigeria has been struggling to meet its OPEC+ quota in recent years, thanks to years of underinvestment coupled with rampant theft and pipeline vandalism. Africas largest oil producer saw crude output average ~1.5 million bpd in 2024, well below its 1.8 million bpd target. In 2022, NNPC reported losing up to 95% of its production at the Bonny terminal to theft, driven by widespread illegal connections. However, government interventions have helped reverse this trend: Nigeria's crude production jumped from 1.1 mbpd in 2022 to 1.83 mbpd in October 2025, reclaiming its place among the continent's top producers thanks to the government's new laws, fiscal incentives, and efforts to combat theft and vandalism.

By Alex Kimani for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
UK automotive production plunged in October, with combined car and commercial vehicle output falling 30.9% year-on-year to 62,116 units, according to new data released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). The sharp contraction reflects both the ongoing fallout from a major cyber incident that disrupted operations at Britains largest carmaker and wider structural pressures in the countrys auto sector.

Car production dropped 23.8% to 59,010 units, leaving factories 18,474 vehicles short of October 2024 levels. The decline marks the first month of a phased restart following the cyberattack that forced a temporary production halt earlier this autumn. Output for the domestic market fell 10.6% to 13,785 units, while exports slid 27.1% to 45,225. Shipments to the UKs largest overseas markets, particularly the EU, US and Japan, recorded declines, though exports to Turkiye and China rose.

Commercial vehicle manufacturing endured an even steeper decline, tumbling 74.9% to just 3,106 units, its seventh consecutive monthly drop. The SMMT attributed the collapse primarily to a major manufacturer consolidating its operations in the North West, a move that has temporarily depressed national volumes.

Despite the grim headline figures, one bright spot was the continued rise of electrified vehicle production. Nearly half of all cars built in October, 46.2%, were battery-electric, plug-in hybrid or hybrid models. Electrified output rose 10.4% to 27,287 units, underscoring the UK industrys pivot toward EV manufacturing even as domestic demand remains under pressure.

The production update comes two days after the UK governments Autumn Budget, which included several measures welcomed by manufacturers. These included a 1.5 billion increase in Automotive Transformation Fund support, a deferral of regulations affecting employee car ownership schemes, and the launch of a consultation on a new British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme aimed at reducing industrial energy costs, long a sticking point for UK manufacturers competing with international rivals.

However, industry leaders warned that new tax measures could weaken the UKs appeal just as policymakers are trying to attract major EV investment. The government confirmed plans for a new pay-per-mile electric vehicle tax (eVED), a move that could suppress EV demand at the very moment automakers are required to increase sales under the countrys Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate.

In introducing a new electric vehicle Excise Duty, the government risks undermining demand for the very vehicles manufacturers are compelled to sell, said SMMT Chief Executive Mike Hawes. This is the wrong measure at the wrong time.

Year-to-date, UK factories have produced 644,366 vehicles, down 17% from the same period in 2024. Yet the latest independent outlook from Auto Analysis forecasts a return to growth in 2026, with output expected to reach 828,000 units as new electric models come online. Under favourable industrial conditions, UK production could climb toward 1 million units by 2030, the report suggests.

The SMMT cautioned that Octobers data includes provisional figures from one manufacturer and may be revised. The next production release is scheduled for 19 December 2025.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
Subsidies and Contracts for Difference (CfD) that the UK government has promised to the two projects for new nuclear power stations are expected to add $1.32 billion (1 billion) annually to the UK power bills from around 2030, The Telegraph reports, citing documents by the Treasury and the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR).

The Hinkley Point C nuclear power station, developed by EDF, is expected to begin generating electricity in 2030-31, after years of delays and cost overruns.

That year, CfD is expected to generate $6.1 billion (4.6 billion) in receipts, including 1.0 billion to fund subsidy payments to the Hinkley Point C nuclear power plant for its first year of expected generation, OBR said in its economic and fiscal outlook released after the UKs latest budget announcement.

The UK government earlier this year also took the final investment decision to build the $51-billion Sizewell C nuclear power plant on the Suffolk Coast in eastern England, which was the first British-owned nuclear power station to be announced in over three decades.

Sizewell C will be the first nuclear power station in the UK financed using a regulated asset base (RAB) model that levies an additional charge on consumer energy bills, which contributes to the financing costs of the plant, OBR noted. This levy is also expected to increase energy bills as early as January.

UK households will pay slightly higher energy bills in the first quarter of 2026 after energy market regulator Ofgem last week raised the Energy Price Cap by 0.2%, against expectations of a 1% drop.

The slight increase in the price cap is driven by government policy costs and operating costs. This includes funding the governments Sizewell C nuclear project, which will bring more clean power, Ofgem noted.

Opponents of new conventional nuclear plants in Britain argue that consumers will be burdened with a nuclear tax for the expensive projects in their energy bills.

The Government has a misguided belief that nuclear will be a cheap, green solution to our energy needs, but the evidence shows the opposite  that costs of delivery and of dealing with nuclear waste  will continue to rise, Alison Downes, of Stop Sizewell C, told The Telegraph.

We remain opposed to the imposition of a nuclear tax on households, given the acknowledged uncertainty about the projected costs of constructing Sizewell C.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
Queen Camilla has urged Britain to stand up to tyranny to end the war in Ukraine.

Queen Camilla called on Britain to stand up to tyranny

The 78-year-old royal paid tribute to those who came before The Rifles, of which she is colonel-in-chief, and fought in the Crimean War as she drew parallels with the past and current conflict with Russia during an awards dinner in London.

According to the Daily Telegraph, Camilla said in a speech at the Biennial Rifles Awards Dinner on Thursday (27.11.25):Only recently we marked the 80th anniversaries of both victory in Europe and victory over Japan.

"During these moments of commemoration, I was fortunate to speak privately with so many of our surviving veterans who voiced a clear and unanimous plea; the path to peace must be pursued with the same vigour and determination that our Forces prepare for combat.

It is only fitting, then, to rewind the clock 170 years, when The Rifles antecedents stood alongside our European allies in modern-day Ukraine.

Let us hope, as our antecedents did then, that our resolve to stand up to tyranny in this same region can again find a resolution to another devastating and brutal war.

Camilla also paid tribute to her equerry Major Ollie Plunket, who was in attendance and is set to be succeeded by fellow Rifleman Major Rob Treasure.

She said: I would like to say a huge thank you to Major Ollie Plunket, who has been my staunch equerry for the past three years. He has excelled in everything he has done for me.

The royal - who is married to King Charles - was joined at the awards dinner by the units Royal Colonels, the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester and Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh.

Camilla took over as The Rifles' colonel-in-chief from her late father-in-law, Prince Philip, in July 2020.

She has ties to the regiment through her late father, Major Bruce Shand, because two battalions of The Rifles form part of the 7th Infantry Brigade, otherwise known as the Desert Rats, with whom her dad served.
Exports of liquefied natural gas from the United States are on track to book a 40% annual increase this month, hitting 10.7 million tons, projections from Kpler have shown, as cited by Bloomberg.

An ample supply of liquefied gas has already pushed natural gas prices down in Europe, with prices reaching the lowest in over a year earlier this week, even as the weather gets colder as winter advances. According to Bloomberg, prices could fall further in the coming months, even though winter is peak demand season, all thanks to the abundance of U.S. liquefied gas.

The United States turned into the worlds largest exporter of LNG in a matter of years as energy companies raced to build new liquefaction trains along the Gulf Coast in response to the surge in demand for a lower-emission alternative to coal. Last month, the U.S. became the first country to export 10 million tons of liquefied gas in a single month, enjoying solid demand from Europe, which earlier this year signed a commitment to buy significant volumes of both LNG and oil to get President Trump to lower tariffs.

Earlier this month, Reuters reported that the United States had become the first country to export 10 million tons of liquefied natural gas in a single month. Citing data from LSEG, the publication reported that U.S. LNG exports in October had hit 10.1 million tons, of which 6.9 million tons went to Europe, and another 1.96 million tons went to Asia. Europe accounted for 69% of total U.S. exports of liquefied gas, cementing the continents top spot among U.S. LNG clients.

As for the source of the LNG, two companies accounted for over two-thirds of the total exports: Cheniere Energy and Venture Global. The two sold 72% of the 10.1 million tons of LNG that the country exported last month.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
By Taxpayers Association of Oregon

OregonWatchdog.com

At the Portland ICE building protest, there were these sticker vandalism posts that said, Senator Wyden supports War crimes. This appears to be a protest against Senator Ron Wydens support for voting military aid to Israel. Additionally, the bombing of Irans nuclear facilities this year divided the Democrat Party in Congress.

This shows that there are many seriously hot issues that do not follow clearly defined party lines or traditional political labels.


By Oregon Campaign Watch,

Nike co-founder Phil Knight has contributed $3 million to the Bring Balance to Salem PAC which is designed to help bring balance in Salem by aiding Republicans who are not represented by the current Democrat super-majority in both the Oregon Senate and House.

The Bring Balance to Salem PAC now has $3.93 million in cash on hand.
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:   from Pexels

Mistreating a dog may come back to bite you. Scientists have long known that childhood abuse, neglect, and trauma can have lifelong consequences in humans. Now, a study by Harvard scientists links early adversity to similar effects in our oldest domesticated species.

In a study of nearly 4,500 dogs published in Scientific Reports, researchers found that adverse experiences in the first six months of puppyhood were strongly associated with elevated aggression and fearfulness in adult dogs.

"In the general population of dogs, you see a significant impact of life experience on behavior," said Julia Espinosa, lead author of the new study and a research associate in the Department of Human Evolutionary Biology (HEB). "What we found that was really surprising is that this impact varies by the breed of the dog, so that suggests there's an important heritable component to behavior and individual susceptibility to stress."

Numerous studies have established that early adversity has lifelong effects on humans as well as other animals, including mice. But no comprehensive studies had been performed on dogs until now. The research was conducted in the lab of Erin Hecht, an assistant professor in Human Evolutionary Biology and a prominent researcher of canine biology, evolution, and domestication.

Espinosa collected data on 4,497 dogs by having their owners fill out a survey that covered whether the animals had been subjected to harsh punishments such as beatings, having their mouths held shut, or being pinned down by humans seeking to assert dominance (the so-called "alpha roll"). The survey also asked whether the dogs had gone through traumatic events such as living on the streets, being attacked by other dogs, or getting hit by cars.

"We know that the nervous system is especially plastic early in life," said Hecht. "In this study, we found that in dogs, traumatic experiences during the first six months had the biggest impact on their fear and aggression behavior later in life.

"This lines up with what we've seen in humans and in other animalsthere's this critical period of development when the nervous system is more sensitive and impacts during that time can have bigger effects."

As dog owners can attest, different breeds exhibit stark differences in behavior and temperament. Researchers uncovered wide variability in baseline levels of fear and aggression among different breeds. For example, breeds that specialized in guarding livestock or bringing down big game were more prone to aggression.

Within each breed, researchers reported that puppyhood trauma had measurable effects: Animals with histories of adversity displayed greater fear and aggression than other members of the same breeds. These experiences were at least as influential as other factors such as sex and whether the animal had been neutered.

The impacts were most dramatic in breeds such as American Eskimo dogs, American leopard hounds, and Siberian huskies. On the other hand, Labradors showed relatively few effects.

More than half the dogs in the survey came from single breeds. About 48% were mutts from mixed or unknown ancestry.

Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly.

About one-third of the animals were reported to have suffered some form of adversity. But Hecht cautioned that those numbers were probably unusually high in this study population.

"We specifically recruited dogs that had trauma histories," she said. "So I don't think this necessarily means that a third of the dogs out there in the world have been neglected or abused."

The researchers heard heartbreaking stories. One golden retriever puppy was fed only a few tablespoons of food every day and by the time he was rescued at age six months, he weighed only 20 pounds. Although his body recovered, he remained unusually fearful.

The lesson: Our best friends carry early trauma for the rest of their lives. "Maybe this makes them a little bit more like us than we realized," said Hecht.

More information: Julia Espinosa et al, Influence of early life adversity and breed on aggression and fear in dogs, Scientific Reports (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-18226-0 Journal information: Scientific Reports

This story is published courtesy of the Harvard Gazette, Harvard University's official newspaper. For additional university news, visit Harvard.edu.
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: Sabel Blanco from Pexels

Australia passed a landmark bill to overhaul the nation's environmental laws after Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's government struck a deal with the left-wing minority Greens party.

Both houses of the country's parliament passed the legislation, Environment Minister Murray Watt said in Canberra. It amends the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, a framework widely viewed by industry and environmental advocates as outdated and in need of reform. Past efforts to update the laws, the most recent earlier this year, had foundered.

The new laws strengthen protections for the environment while also streamlining approval processes for major developments in areas like mining.

"As a result of these laws being passed, Australia's natural environment will be better protected for generations to come," Watt said.

"In addition, these reforms will deliver much quicker processes to ensure we can deliver the housing, renewables and critical minerals that our country desperately needs," he said. Earlier on Nov. 27, Watt said the bill could inject up to A$7 billion ($4.5 billion) into the economy.

Australia, the world's driest inhabited continent, is constantly grappling with trade-offs between its powerhouse mining and energy industries that underpin the nation's prosperity, and its unique and often fragile environment. The new laws will increase scrutiny of major projects related to the country's three largest exports: iron ore, coal and liquefied natural gas.

The government will now establish a nationwide Environmental Protection Authority and require large projects to disclose their emissions, Claire Smith, partner and head of Environment at law firm Clayton Utz, told Bloomberg by phone.

"We've been waiting on reforms for the environment for 15 years," she said. "The earlier Act was overly complex, and frankly, it wasn't actually protecting the environment. There's much bigger penalties for impacting threatened species and other contraventions, which could see fines as high as A$825 million."

The new EPA will operate concurrently with separate bodies by the same name in Australia's eight states and territories. The law also creates national standards to guide departmental decision-making.

While the Greens party pushed for resource projects to be assessed on their carbon-emission intensity, it was not successful.

"The government has other legislation that regulates carbon impacts, but the new law requires emissions disclosure," Smith said. Most major resources companies in Australia, including its biggest miners BHP Group and Rio Tinto Group, already disclose their annual emissions.

2025 Bloomberg L.P. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

According to an EHU study, lack of social support leads to increased loneliness of bisexual people. The work by Garikoitz Azkona of the Psychobiology group explored the relationship between sexual orientation and loneliness. It detected the highest level of loneliness among bisexual people, above that of homosexuals and heterosexuals.

It revealed that bisexual individuals have less social support and concluded that this intensifies their loneliness. The study calls for the adopting of measures to improve the well-being of the bisexual population.

A study by the University of the Basque Country (EHU) measured the level of loneliness of bisexual, homosexual and heterosexual people and examined the effect exerted on them by social support and mental well-being. The paper is published in the Journal of Homosexuality.

"We set out to produce an X-ray of the current situation. When embarking on this research, we expected the scientific paper to show that today, by now, in the Basque Country, whatever the sexual orientation might be, the feeling of loneliness would be the same. But that was not the case. It is true that we did not see any significant difference between homosexuals and heterosexuals, but the results revealed that even today, bisexual individuals experience greater loneliness," said Azkona.

The EHU research drew conclusions from the questionnaire responses given by participants with the three sexual orientations (bisexual, homosexual and heterosexual) in Navarre and the Basque Autonomous Community. Specifically, the study showed that 13% of bisexual individuals suffer great loneliness, and 64% moderate loneliness. By contrast, the majority of homosexuals and heterosexuals expressed a low degree of loneliness.

Azkona explained that this does not mean that sexual orientation is a predictor of loneliness. "In other words, one is not predestined to feel lonely because one is bisexual. The research showed that the direct determining factor is not sexual orientation. Whereas social support and mental well-being are."

When examining these two variables, the EHU research revealed that the situation of bisexual individuals is worse and, in actual fact, their loneliness is intensified as a result of them. Indeed, when the respondents were asked whether they had someone to turn to when they needed company, emotional or practical help, the bisexual individuals said they had fewer people available; fewer than homosexuals and heterosexuals. And it was confirmed that this perception of having limited help networks reduces psychological well-being and increases loneliness.

"Loneliness intensifies if someone does not feel that they are part of a community, and that seems to be particularly the case with bisexual individuals. In the case of homosexual individuals, the situation would appear to have changed; work has been done and, despite the fact that it is not a normative sexual orientation, the increase in acceptance by society and individuals has been achieved. Bisexuality, on the other hand, is still being questioned and there are many prejudices," said Azkona.

Intervention on two fronts, individual and social, to address the loneliness of bisexuals

Faced with the situation depicted by the results, the researchers stress that measures need to be adopted.

Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly.

"In the surveys we conducted for our research, in which many participants were young university students, we are increasingly seeing that more and more people are identifying as bisexual. For example, 22% in the ongoing study I am working on. Such high values used not to emerge a few years ago.

"If the number of people in the bisexual cohort is rising, and, as a society, if we are not ready, many will experience the loneliness revealed by our research. So if we want to improve the well-being of this population, we have to do our homework," said Azkona.

They propose two kinds of measures. Firstly, individual ones: those geared towards reinforcing the self-esteem, identity, stress management and help networks of bisexual individuals. And secondly, of a social nature: education programs to work on respect for sexual diversity, actions to support both the acceptance of bisexuality and its integration into society.

More information: Ezequiel Collantes et al, A Study on Loneliness, Social Support, and Mental Well-Being Based on Sexual Orientation in Northern Spain, Journal of Homosexuality (2025). DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2025.2556861
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:

This aerial shot taken using a drone shows a flooded neighborhood in Medan, North Sumatra, Indonesia, Friday, Nov. 28, 2025. Credit: AP Photo/Binsar Bakkara

The death toll from flash floods and landslides on Indonesia's Sumatra island rose to 164 on Friday with 79 people missing, authorities said, as rescue workers found their efforts hampered by damaged bridges and roads and a lack of heavy equipment.

Monsoon rains caused rivers to burst their banks in North Sumatra province Tuesday. The deluge tore through mountainside villages, swept away people and submerged more than 3,200 houses and buildings, the National Disaster Management Agency said. About 3,000 displaced families fled to government shelters.

The death toll in North Sumatra province rose to 116, while 25 people died in Aceh. Rescuers also retrieved 23 bodies in West Sumatra, National Disaster Mitigation Agency's Chief Suharyanto said.

"Mudslides that covered much of the area, power blackouts and lack of telecommunications were hampering the search efforts," Suharyanto, who goes by a single name like many Indonesians, told a virtual news conference. He spoke from an airport in North Tapanuli district, shortly after conducting an aerial inspection above the devastated areas to see the scale of the disaster.

At a National Teachers' Day commemoration speech, President Prabowo Subianto noted that three aircraft including a Hercules C-130 and a newly Airbus A-400carrying rescue personnel, food, medicines, blankets, field tents and generators were deployed Friday morning as part of ongoing relief operations.

"We continue to send aid and support the needs of those affected," Prabowo said. "Many roads are cut off and the weather remains unfavorable. Even our helicopters and planes sometimes struggle to land," he added.

This aerial shot taken using a drone shows a flooded neighborhood in Medan, North Sumatra, Indonesia, Friday, Nov. 28, 2025. Credit: AP Photo/Binsar Bakkara

Prabowo said the disaster highlights growing global challenges such as climate change, global warming and environmental degradation. He suggested that environmental awareness should be strengthened in school curricula.

"We must teach the importance of protecting our environment and our forests, and seriously prevent illegal logging and destruction," he said.

Footage on the aerial view above devastated areas in the three provinces shows swathes of emerald forest and terraced hillsides have been ripped open, their scars bleeding torrents of mud into valleys below. In North Sumatra, entire neighborhoods in the provincial capital of Medan and Deli Serdang regency lie submerged under a vast sheet of brown water, rooftops barely visible as rivers burst their banks. Roads that once pulsed with traffic now resemble canals, littered with stranded vehicles and uprooted trees.

Rescue workers on Friday were trying to reach many people in isolated villages after floods or landslides damaged roads and bridges, Suharyanto said. Aid and other logistic supplies in some places can be distributed only by foot over the severe terrain,

Rescue teams struggled to reach affected areas in 12 cities and districts of North Sumatra province. while the flooding in West Sumatra also destroyed rice fields, livestock and public facilities.

In Aceh province, authorities struggled to bring excavators and other heavy equipment over washed-out roads after torrential rains sent mud and rocks crashing onto hilly hamlets.

The extreme weather was driven by tropical cyclone Senyar, which formed in the Strait of Malacca, said Achadi Subarkah Raharjo at Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysical Agency.

This aerial shot taken using a drone shows a flooded neighborhood in Medan, North Sumatra, Indonesia, Friday, Nov. 28, 2025. Credit: AP Photo/Binsar Bakkara

He warned that unstable atmospheric conditions mean extreme weather could persist as long as the cyclone system remains active.

"We have extended its extreme weather warning due to strong water vapor supply and shifting atmospheric dynamics," Raharjo said.

Senyar intensified rainfall, strong winds, and high waves in Aceh, North Sumatra, West Sumatra, Riau, and nearby areas before dissipating. Its prolonged downpours left steep, saturated terrain highly vulnerable to disasters, he said.

Seasonal rains frequently cause flooding and landslides in Indonesia, an archipelago of 17,000 islands where millions of people live in mountainous areas or near fertile flood plains.

 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
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:

An artist's conception of a red dwarf flare. Credit: ASTRON

A first ever detection of a coronal mass ejection from a small red dwarf could have big consequences for life on any nearby planets.

On Earth, coronal mass ejections (CMEs) like the one we experienced earlier this month are aesthetic, even disruptive events, sending aurora southward and interrupting radio signals. But around other stars, they could prove lethal to life.

This point was driven home by a recent CME detection from an M-class red dwarf star.

This marks the first detection of an energetic Type II radio burst from a nearby star. The study titled "Radio Burst from a Stellar Coronal Mass Ejection" was published in the journal Nature. Researchers in the study used the Low Frequency Array (LOFAR) radio telescope, as part of what's known as the LOFAR Two-Meter Sky Survey. LOFAR consists of an array of 20,000 dipole detectors, spread primarily across the Netherlands and neighboring countries.

"It is important because this is the first direct detection of such a stellar storm (a CME) on another star," says Cyril Tasse (University of Leiden). "Before, we only had indirect hints. Now we can really see the shock moving in the star's atmosphere, so we know for sure it is a CME."

The source is M dwarf StKM-1262, a star with 60% the mass of our sun. This M dwarf is located at Right Ascension 15h 37' 10," Declination +53 19' 19" north on the Draco/Bootes border, barely across the boundary in the constellation Draco the Dragon. The star is located about 130 light-years distant, and to date isn't known to host exoplanets.

The location of the source red dwarf from the study. Credit: Stellarium

"It looks much more powerful than an average CME from our sun. So not a good idea to be in its firing line," says Joe Callingham (ASTRON-University of Amsterdam). "Especially since planets around M dwarfs, if in the habitable zone, are much closer to their host star than Earth is to the sun."

The European Space Agency's XMM-Newton space telescope also followed up on the observation, monitoring the outburst at X-ray wavelengths.

"We used LOFAR to see the radio emission from the shock as it travels through the star's corona," says Tasse. "The emission frequency depends on the density of the plasma, so with LOFAR we can follow the shock. XMM-Newton, with its X-ray data, helps us measure or constrain the density profile of the corona, and we can get a physical measure of the CME."

The study observed 86,000 stars out to 100 parsecs (326 light-years) from our solar system over an eight-hour span to make the detection.

"It's 10100,000 times brighter than the sun's ones," says Tasse. Assuming the star is fully convective, it is also likely more magnetized, and produces a stronger magnetic field with much bigger eruptions.

Red dwarfs are tempestuous stars, smaller but much more active than our sun. They're also the most common class of star in our universe. But due to their faintness, not one can be currently seen from the night skies of Earth.

"Since red dwarfs are the most common stars in the universe, they are also the most likely place to find a planet," says Callingham. "So we want to determine if a planet is potentially habitable around these stars. However, we really did not know how often these stars undergo these giant storms (coronal mass ejections). This is important to determine, because even if the planet is in the habitable zone, it is possible the star blasts it with CMEs so often its atmosphere disappears."

One thing red dwarfs do have going for them are terrestrial-sized planets. A majority of confirmed exoplanets orbit red dwarfs, which constitute 75% of the total population of main sequence stars. This includes the well-known TRAPPIST-1 system, and the recent trio of exoplanets seen orbiting TOI-2267.

Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly.

Unfortunately, the implications from this discovery do not bode well for the prospects for life on exoplanets around M-dwarf stars.

The discovery confirms what many researchers have long suspected, that prospects for life evolving on an exoplanet orbiting a red dwarf may be slim. Though the long miserly life span of red dwarfs is measured in the range of trillions of years, which is much longer than the current 13.8 billion year age of the universe, planet-sterilizing CMEs are a definite downside.

Although such a star may unleash a powerful CME once every 500 years or so, life needs time to evolve. Plus, the habitable zone around a red dwarf is tiny. Think of a solar system in miniature, versus our own. CMEs in our solar system can compress our magnetosphere almost down to Earth's surface, and a red dwarf flare could effectively strip a planet's atmosphere.

"It tells us that 'habitable zone' is not only about liquid water," says Tasse. "It is also about the magnetic environment. If the star produces many violent CMEs, a planet needs strong magnetic shielding to keep its atmosphere. So life as we know it around such stars might be more difficult.

"Next is to collect more data and build real statistics. With future instruments like the SKA, we will detect many more events and understand how often these big CMEs happen and how they affect nearby planets."

The next step is to examine exoplanets in orbit around red dwarfs in greater detail. JWST is working to detect atmospheres around Earth-sized exoplanets orbiting red dwarf stars. The SKA (Square Kilometer Array) currently under construction in South Africa and Australia and coming online for scientific observations in 2027 could detect tens to hundreds of CME flares from nearby stars in its first year of operation alone.

This study adds one more small piece to the puzzle of answering just how common (or rare) our own story is in the larger context of the drama of the universe. Red dwarfs may be tough neighborhoods when it comes to life, and that could well be why we're here instead, orbiting a relatively placid G-type yellow dwarf sun.

More information: J. R. Callingham et al, Radio burst from a stellar coronal mass ejection, Nature (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-025-09715-3 Journal information: Nature
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: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

In short order, Teddya bright-eyed and bushy-tailed 3-year-old yellow Labpunched a wall button with his nose, yanked a rope to open a kitchen cabinet door and tugged a walker across the floor.

After each feat, trainer Emma Hetrick rewarded Teddy with a well-earned piece of kibble. With just a few months to go before graduation, Teddy is close to starting his "career" as a mobility service dog, Hetrick said.

It's what he was born to do.

Across Minnesota, more than a dozen organizations are breeding, raising and training a growing legion of service dogs to help people with a widening range of disabilitiesfrom autism spectrum disorder to diabeteslive their best, most independent lives.

The importance of the work has become so recognized that a new law that took effect Aug. 1 protects people who train service dogs from paying more in rent. The move is expected to increase the number of volunteer trainers and, eventually, the number of available dogs.

Can Do Canines in New Hope is the largest service dog operation in the state.

Teddy is one of 50 dogs the organization gives free-of-charge each year. Since its founding in 1989, the nonprofit has placed nearly 1,000 dogs who have been trained to open doors, summon elevators, pick up remotes, fetch telephones and sense seizures when their people cannot.

"They have a real joy in helping," said Jeff Johnson, Can Do Canines executive director since 2020. "It's really important to us that each of our dogs get joy out of the work."

Over its 37 years, Johnson said, Can Do Canines has expanded from an organization that trained dogs to work with people who were hard of hearing or deaf to one that assists people with multiple disabilities. They now train mobility assist dogs, autism assist dogs, seizure assist dogs, diabetes assist dogs, hearing assist dogs and facility dogs, who are placed at hospitals or with community service organizations.

Johnson, a former Hennepin County commissioner and state legislator, is now leading a capital campaign that seeks to expand Can Do Canines' facilities and capabilities. With more room, volunteers and trainers, he said, the organization hoped to place 70 dogs a year with the people who need them.

The biggest area of need is for people with mobility disabilities, Johnson said. Can Do's dogs work with people who use wheelchairs, walkers, crutches and canes. Dogs help protect people with balance issues and at risk of falling, such as those with Parkinson's, multiple sclerosis or cerebral palsy.

They can push elevator buttons or the handicapped buttons on doors. They can even take laundry out of the washer and drier, Johnson said.

Seizure-assistance dogs can sense when its person is about to have a seizure and summon help or provide comfort. Diabetes-assist dogs can smell when their person may need food or medication. For children with autism, the dog can act as a guard against a child wandering away or a source of calm and comfort.

Teddy has learned to pick up everything from oven mitts to remote controls, Hetrick said. He can even pick up a credit card or coin dropped on the floor.

Allie Brown lives in Minneapolis and is a middle school teacher at St. Thomas More in St. Paul. Starting in the seventh grade, Brown said, she began to suffer frequent and painful dislocations to her knees. Later diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Brown was referred by a doctor to Can Do Canines.

Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly.

Since 2021, Brown's dog Finley has not only helped her get things that are difficult for her to pick up and carry, but Brown said she's reduced the number of times Brown is injured from once a month to two or three times a year.

If Brown falls, Finley helps her get up. At work, the 6-year-old pooch lies in a little bed beneath Brown's desk. Finley has even become a way for her students to discuss disability, Brown said.

"She makes them comfortable to even talk about their own disabilities," Brown said. "She's a very good girl."

Most Can Do Canines' dogsprimarily golden and Labrador retrieversare bred by the organization and born in its whelping center. A small number of pups are donated by breeders. Shelter or rescue dogs are included as well.

At five weeks of age, the puppies are weaned and begin crate and potty training. At 10 weeks, they move on to the puppy program where volunteers help raise them and give them their foundational training.

The organization works with about 750 volunteers, including prison inmates and college students at the University of Minnesota and the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. In all, Can Do Canines works with inmates at nine prisons, Johnson said. Eventually, they hope to work with 12.

At the age of 2, the dogs return to the Can Do Canines facility for final training. There, they are matched with prospective clients. Johnson estimates that it costs $45,000 to raise one of their service dogs. Clients pay nothing, except for a $50 application fee.

He said the organization has a $4 million annual budget, raised mostly through individual donations. At any time, Can Do Canines staff of 55 is working with about 250 dogs.

And, he said, Can Do can do with even moretrainers, volunteers, funding and dogs.

"It's our mission that we transform people's lives by creating mutually beneficial partnerships with specially trained dogs," he said. "And we hear it every day, how these dogs are not just helping people. They're changing their lives."

2025 The Minnesota Star Tribune. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC
Channel 4 has axed The Honesty Box after one series because it did not perform as well as Virgin Island.

Vicky Pattison hosted The Honesty Box

Hosted by Vicky Pattison, The Honesty Box saw singletons travel to a luxurious resort in Cyprus called Truetopia, and the contestants had to stay truthful about their feelings to win a potential jackpot of 100,000, as fibs reduced the amount.

It was pitted against fellow E4 experimental show, Virgin Island - which raked in a series average of 1.4 million viewers per episode to see some of the worlds top sexologists help the 12 virgins in a plush Mediterranean retreat take their first steps towards sex and intimacy.

The latter - Channel 4's biggest streaming hit so far this year - has been recommissioned for a second series, but The Honesty Box has not, despite the broadcaster being impressed with Vicky's performance as its presenter.

A Channel 4 spokeswoman told The Sun newspaper's TVBiz column: "The Honesty Box was a brilliant format from a great team, but there were many great new reality hits this year.

"We have had to make tough decisions on what is returning. Virgin Island really landed with our audience, and it will return next year."

As Channel 4 bosses were thrilled with Vicky's work on The Honesty Box - which aired in April - they have given her a co-hosting role on the network's Stand Up to Cancer fundraiser on December 12.

The star - who was recently eliminated from BBC's Strictly Come Dancing - will join The Last Leg presenter Adam Hills, 55, TV host Davina McCall, 58, and author Hannah Fry, 41, on the night.

Vicky, 38, said: "I've supported cancer-related causes for many years, taking part in fundraising treks and awareness campaigns for breast cancer, and it means a great deal to continue championing such work."

Series two of Virgin Island will be "bigger and bolder than ever".

Jonah Weston, Virgin Island Commissioning Editor, said: It's been such a thrill to watch this show catch fire.

"This is a live issue among young people, and from the brave cast to our wonderful experts I don't think I've ever worked on anything quite so bold, warm and well-intentioned.

"Watch out for season two, which will be bigger and bolder than ever!
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:

Ancient cat skulls analyzed at the ancient DNA facilities of the Biology Department at the University of Rome Tor Vergata. Credit: Patrizia Serventi, ERC-Felix Project

Despite the ubiquity of cats in modern homes, we still don't know many details about the timing and routes of early cat domestication and dispersal into Europe and beyond, aside from the common association of cats with ancient Egyptian culture.

However, a new study, published in Science, uses nuclear DNA evidence to shed light on the origins of what we know as the modern domestic cat (Felis catus), and also challenges the view that domestic cats were introduced into Europe during the Neolithic period.

Origins of the modern domestic cat

The remains of cats and artistic depictions of them have been observed in various archaeological sites throughout Europe, Africa, and Asia for over 10,000 years, indicating some form of relationship between cats and humans in certain cultures. However, it was not always clear whether these cats could be thought of as 'domesticated' or not.

The authors of the new study say, "This is due to a variety of factors, including the paucity of felid remains in archaeological contexts, the difficulty of assigning species and domestication status to skeletal elements [because wild and domesticated forms overlap in size and morphology], and the limited number of ancient and modern genomes analyzed so far. As a result, present hypotheses regarding when, where, and how cats were domesticated are poorly supported by empirical evidence."

There are two known centers of early cat domestication: the Neolithic Levant area around 9,500 years ago and Pharaonic Egypt around 3,500 years ago. Evidence of domestication in the Levant is seen in the remains of a cat buried alongside a human. Ancient Egyptian culture, meanwhile, has abundant evidence of cat domestication, ranging from mummified cat remains to drawings of cats eating off dishes near humans.

Chronology of cat dispersal. Credit: Patrizia Serventi, ERC-Felix project

Studies based on mitochondrial DNA have indicated that cats may have been brought from Turkey into Europe alongside Neolithic farmers, during the rise of agriculture, around 6,000 years ago and also from Egypt around 2000 years ago. The modern domestic cat has been shown to genetically arise from the African wildcat (Felis lybica lybica), which would have been native to these areas.

The new study analyzed the genomes of 70 ancient cats over a span of the last 11,000 years originating from archaeological sites in Europe and Anatolia (modern Turkey) and 17 modern wildcats from Italy, Bulgaria, and North Africa. The results indicate that modern cats did not actually arrive in Europe until around 2000 years ago, meaning that they were not brought over by Neolithic farmers, as previously thought. Analysis shows that modern domestic cats are more closely related to modern African wildcats than to the modern Levantine population.

The cats of early Europe

Europe had its own native wildcat, Felis silvestris, which is the species that pops up in DNA records earlier than 2000 years ago in Europe (as opposed to F. l. lybica, which would have come with Neolithic farmers). According to the new study, there was evidence for admixture between early F. silvestris and F. l. lybica cats, which is likely the hybrid species identified in other studies. Although they are not the domestic cats we now know, these cats still appeared to play a role in some cultures, although what role they played may have varied.

"The relationship between humans and wildcats in Europe was possibly based on exploitation for fur and food, as suggested by the Mesolithic samples from Galgenbuhel/Dos de la Forca. However, more complex sociocultural and symbolic relationships should not be discounted, considering the wildcat remains analyzed here from Bronze Age Partanna (Sicily, Italy) collected in a bellshaped vase and a feline clay head from Chalcolithic Bulgaria," the study authors explain.

Regardless, they say that their data indicates that F. silvestris did not lead to the spread of F. l. lybica/F. catus cats into Europe.

A distinct relative

The team's DNA analysis also revealed a distinct population of cats living on the island of Sardinia. They say these cats came in a separate wave of migration from Northwest Africa.

Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly.

The study authors write, "Although preliminary, owing to the limited sample of wildcat genomes (three from the Levant and two from North Africa), these results allow for hypothesizing that domestic cats and Sardinian wildcats derived from two genetically distinct populations in North Africa, represented in our dataset by Tunisian and Moroccan wildcats, respectively."

While this study helps to narrow down the origins of modern domestic cats, the authors note that more data from Egypt and other regions would help to pinpoint source populations.

The study authors conclude, "Our results offer a new interpretive framework for the geographic origin of domestic cats, suggesting a broader and more complex process of domestication that may have involved multiple regions and cultures in North Africa. Efforts should continue to narrow down the original source population(s) of present-day domestic cats and to clarify the cultural and socioeconomic processes that led to their domestication and promoted their global dispersal."

Written for you by our author Krystal Kasal, edited by Gaby Clark, and fact-checked and reviewed by Robert Eganthis article is the result of careful human work. We rely on readers like you to keep independent science journalism alive. If this reporting matters to you, please consider a donation (especially monthly). You'll get an ad-free account as a thank-you.

More information: M. De Martino et al, The dispersal of domestic cats from North Africa to Europe around 2000 years ago, Science (2025). DOI: 10.1126/science.adt2642 Jonathan B. Losos, The cat diaspora out of Africa, Science (2025). DOI: 10.1126/science.aec9283 , www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.aec9283 Journal information: Science

 2025 Science X Network
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: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Widely circulated claims of out-of-control mass immigration in Australia are false and misleading and stem from the incorrect reporting of tourism and travel data that has nothing to do with migration, according to a major new report from The Australian National University (ANU).

The report's authors say that public commentators, activists and some media outlets are incorrectly using Permanent and Long-Term (PLT) movement data, which is collected by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), to claim Australia has a "migration problem" and distort public understanding.

This is despite repeated, clear comments from the ABS that PLT does not measure migration but instead records people coming in and out of Australia, and includes tourists, temporary visa holders, returning residents and repeated short absences.

ANU Professor Alan Gamlen explains that net overseas migration (NOM)the number of migrants arriving in Australia minus the number of migrants departing Australiais in fact falling sharply and has been since June 2023.

He said the misuse of PLT data is generating sensational news headlines that are fueling misinformation and peddling false narratives, while also undermining public policy on migration.

"PLT is tourism and travel behavior data, while NOM is migration data. They measure entirely different things. The ABS has repeatedly warned that their PLT data should not be used to draw conclusions about overseas migration," Professor Gamlen, who is the Director of the ANU Migration Hub, said.

"Researchers who ignore those warnings from the ABS are likely committing research misconducta serious offense at any research institution.

"Under volatile conditions, like the country's border reopening post-COVID-19, the errors in PLT-based claims explode, producing charts and headlines that are factually wrong.

"False claims based on this misused data were used by extremist groups to encourage participation in a series of immigration marches this year which featured self-described neo-Nazis and white supremacists."

According to the researchers, in recent years, PLT arrivals have been 23% to 30% higher than actual migrant arrivals, and PLT departures have been 115% to 135% higher than actual migrant departures.

"If PLT numbers are used instead of NOM to measure migration, you are led to believe there are 120,000 more migrants in Australia than is actually the case. To put that in perspective, that figure is nearly two-thirds the size of Australia's entire permanent migration program," Professor Gamlen said.

Co-author Emeritus Professor Peter McDonald said the consequences of the misuse of PLT data extend beyond public discourse. "NOM is the figure used to update Australia's Estimated Resident Population (ERP)the number that governments use for funding, infrastructure planning and representation," he said.

"This makes NOM the benchmark for accurate migration figures to influence issues such as housing, infrastructure, labor planning, population change, budgeting and more. Using PLT instead of NOM risks poor policy decisions and misallocation of resources.

"NOM is the standard used globally and is Australia's official measurement of migration that is built into the country's legal and institutional frameworks. People often confuse NOM with permanent migration, but it is bigger than that. It also includes flows the Government can't cap, like people departing and Australians returning home."

More information: What's the difference between NOM and Net PLT? migration.anu.edu.au/briefings  ssions#section-29865
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: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

Research from the University of Bath exposes the overlooked burdens of remote working in the Global South, revealing how it transfers economic, physiological and emotional strain to Indian IT workers supporting global firms.

Drawing on in-depth interviews with 51 Indian IT professionals, the research reveals how remote work demands adaptations going far beyond setting up a home office or managing work-life boundaries.

Workers are balancing the needs of multigenerational households in small living spaces, adjusting daily routines, managing frequent power outages and unreliable internet connectivity, navigating pervasive surveillance technologies, and sharing constrained internet bandwidth among several family members.

The research shows that while organizations benefit from reduced operational costs, they often transfer infrastructural responsibilities to employees, without adequate support. Workers even reported installing industrial-grade power backups in regions with unreliable power.

"In the Global South, where infrastructure is volatile and homes are often shared with extended family, the burden of making remote work viable falls disproportionately on entire households," said Professor Vivek Soundararajan, from the University of Bath's School of Management, who led the study.

The study, published in the Journal of Economic Geography, highlights five key dimensions of how IT workers have to adapt their households at multiple levels to sustain professional work, namely space, time, technical, surveillance, and emotional.

"Remote work's big promise was that talent could work from anywhere but it didn't eliminate workplace inequality, it just moved it into the home," said Professor Soundararajan.

"Indian IT professionalsdoing identical jobs to their counterparts in London or New Yorkspend their salaries on industrial backup power systems, negotiate with apartment associations over equipment installations, and coordinate elaborate family schedules just to stay online."

India's IT sector employs 5.80 million professionals. They supply remote services to multinational clients across finance, health care, retail and government.

"Our findings call for a rethink of remote work policies, one that integrates home as an integral component of productive work," said co-author Dr. Pankhuri Agarwal. "Organizations and policymakers must recognize that home/remote working is not inherently equitable or flexible.

"Family structure and housing arrangements are completely different to the Global North and pose very different remote working challenges. Companies must better understand the realities on the ground for remote work if they want to protect worker well-being."

The researchers say that while "infrastructural volatility" is a condition endemic to the Global South it is increasingly relevant worldwide, as climate change and economic pressures strain infrastructure globally, including the UK.

More information: Vivek Soundararajan et al, Remote work and reorganization of household infrastructure in the Global South: insights from the Indian information technology industry, Journal of Economic Geography (2025). DOI: 10. /jeg/lbaf052
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:

A deeper understanding of space weather also helps distinguish between natural and human-made disturbances. Solar storms also appear as auroras. Aurora over Luosto in Northern Finland, 21 November 2025. Credit: Otto Karha / University of Oulu

A strong geomagnetic storm in spring 2024 brought the northern lights unusually far south, as the auroral oval expanded well beyond its typical position. "I am surprised at how sparse the measurement network is, even though we know that the impacts of space weather can vary greatly from one area to another," says Doctoral Researcher Otto Karha from the University of Oulu, Finland.

"For safety reasons, it is important to expand measurement instrumentation also in southern Finland and across Arctic sea regionsareas where the network is currently sparse or non-existentin order to better understand how disturbances are distributed," Karha continues. He will defend his doctoral thesis on 28 November 2025.

Space weather refers to the interaction between the solar wind and various solar eruptions with Earth's magnetic field. The most intense space weather events can generate large-scale disturbances in the geomagnetic field, known as magnetic storms. These disturbances may interfere with power transmission, communication systems, and navigation. "The regional nature of space weather can be compared to ordinary weathersuch as differences in temperature or cloud cover," Karha explains.

Geomagnetic storms are monitored using magnetometers, which are primarily installed within the auroral zone, where the strongest field variations usually occur. Station networks can detect disturbances and provide information on how the most intense variations distribute across different latitudes. Local disturbance data is especially important for assessing space-weather-related risks to infrastructures and technologies. However, the current network is considered too sparse in Fennoscandia.

In his dissertation, Karha examines how large momentary differences in geomagnetic storm-time variations can become between stationsthat is, how local disturbances truly are. In addition to the 2024 storm, earlier cases were studied. During a storm recorded in Fennoscandia in October 1977, the disturbance in the northward magnetic field component differed by more than 500 nanoteslas between stations only 170 km apart. During the so-called Halloween superstorm in October 2003, the difference reached 1,200 nanoteslas over 160 km. The strongest variation was detected on Earth's night side.

"Subsurface conductivity structures also guide the flow of currents and create areas with higher disturbance risk," Karha notes. "Future magnetic storms cannot be predicted precisely, but their probability increases as the solar cycle declines over the coming years. A deeper understanding of space weather is vital for global safety."

"This dissertation shows that the magnitude of space-weather-induced geomagnetic disturbances can vary significantly within just a few tens of kilometers. Natural geomagnetic disturbances may resemble human-made interference, and distinguishing between them is increasingly important in the current geopolitical climate," emphasizes dissertation supervisor Professor Eija Tanskanen, director of the Sodankyla Geophysical Observatory at the University of Oulu.

The study utilized both modern digital measurements and extensive historical material originally recorded on 35 millimeter film in the 1970s. The dissertation presents a digitization method through which nearly 40 kilometers of magnetic field variation film records can be converted into digital data for future research use.

More information: From strong to superstorms : regional effects and spatial geomagnetic gradients driven by extreme space weather. oulurepo.oulu.fi/handle/10024/59156
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:

Dr. Tomas Slanina, head of the Redox Photochemistry research group, and Lucie Salkova, PhD student, IOCB Prague. Credit: Tomas Bellon / IOCB Prague

A team of researchers at IOCB Prague headed by Dr. Tomas Slanina has developed a new method for labeling molecules with fluorescent dyes that surpasses existing approaches in both precision and stability. The new fluorescent label remains covalently bonded to its target molecule and does not fall apart even under demanding conditions inside living cells. This allows scientists to track labeled molecules over long periods with high reliabilityan advantage for research in biology, chemistry, and medicine.

The study is published in Angewandte Chemie International Edition.

Current challenges in fluorescent labeling

Fluorescent labeling of proteins and peptides enables scientists to determine where a molecule is located in a cell and how its behavior changes over time. Current methods, however, have clear limitations.

The label often attaches to an unintended site on the molecule, potentially disrupting its structure and, in extreme cases, even its biological function. Moreover, molecules labeled in this way tend to be unstable and can easily unlabel in the cellular environment.

"In our work, we applied a highly precise peptide-labeling approach that uses a two-step chemical reaction triggered by light. This allows us to create exceptionally stable fluorescently labeled molecules," says Slanina.

Credit: Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the CAS

How the new method works

The new method from IOCB Prague combines the best features of existing strategiesnamely, precision and outstanding molecular stability. Fluorescent labeling proceeds in two steps. First, the dye attaches to the molecule at a precisely defined position. Then, upon exposure to light, the attached label is "glued" in place, converting a temporary bond into a permanent, chemically robust one.

"We call the method Stick and Glue!" explains Lucie Salkova, the study's first author and a Ph.D. student.

"Imagine someone dancing with a glow stick. If the stick isn't activated, you can't see it and they disappear into the crowdthey might even drop it. But once they snap it and fasten it to their wrist, they won't lose it, and you can easily spot where they are. Our method works similarly.

"First, we attach the fluorescent dye, and only after illuminating it with light do we stabilize itwe glue it to the target molecule. From then on, the molecule can be tracked easily without the dye falling off. Unlike other methods, our glow sticks don't end up scattered on the floor at the end of the night," she adds.

A flask containing fluorescently labeled glutathione. Glutathione is a small tripeptide and one of the most important antioxidants in cellsit helps neutralize free radicals and protects cells from oxidative stress. In our research, it served as a model molecule to test a new labeling method. While glutathione consists of three amino acids, by the end of the project, we were able to label a protein containing 583 amino acids. This sample, therefore, represents an important milestone of the projectthe moment we confirmed that our method truly works. The image captures the lyophilization step, during which the peptide is being dried after conjugation. The visible transition from yellow to red color is related to changes in the fluorophore's environment as the sample dries. Credit: IOCB Prague

The innovative labeling method developed at IOCB Prague offers a universal, precise, gentle, and permanent way of attaching fluorescent dyessuitable for small molecules as well as large peptides and proteins. These highly stable labels allow scientists to monitor the movement of selected biomolecules in cells and study their interactions with their environment.

The technology expands the possibilities for research in biology, chemistry, and materials science and may contribute to the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic tools.

More information: Lucie Salkova et al, ThiosulfonateDerived BODIPY "Stick and Glue" Strategy for Fluorescent Thiol Labeling, Angewandte Chemie International Edition (2025). DOI: 10.1002/anie.202515338 Journal information: Angewandte Chemie International Edition
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:

A sample of poly(dicyclopentadiene) plastic, which is a material often used in car bumpers and farm equipment that is difficult to degrade, made with the Rutgers scientists' process using degradable chemistry. The chemical structure is designed so the plastic starts breaking down on its own within a few days at normal room conditions. On the left is the original sample; on the right is the same sample after 18 hours in the open air. Credit: Gu Lab/Rutgers University

Yuwei Gu was hiking through Bear Mountain State Park in New York when inspiration struck. Plastic bottles littered the trail and more floated on a nearby lake. The jarring sight in such a pristine environment made the Rutgers chemist stop in his tracks. Nature makes plenty of long-stranded molecules called polymers, including DNA and RNA, yet those natural polymers eventually break down. Synthetic polymers such as plastics don't. Why?

"Biology uses polymers everywhere, such as proteins, DNA, RNA and cellulose, yet nature never faces the kind of long-term accumulation problems we see with synthetic plastics," said Gu, an assistant professor in the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology in the Rutgers School of Arts and Sciences.

As he stood in the woods, the answer came to him.

"The difference has to lie in chemistry," he said.

If nature can build polymers that serve their purpose and then disappear, Gu reasoned, perhaps human-made plastics could be made to do the same. Gu already knew that natural polymers contain tiny helper groups built into their structure that make chemical bonds easier to break when the time is right.

"I thought, what if we copy that structural trick?" he said. "Could we make human-made plastics behave the same way?"

The idea worked. In a study published in Nature Chemistry, Gu and a team of Rutgers scientists have shown that by borrowing this principle from nature, they can create plastics that break down under everyday conditions without heat or harsh chemicals.

"We wanted to tackle one of the biggest challenges of modern plastics," Gu said. "Our goal was to find a new chemical strategy that would allow plastics to degrade naturally under everyday conditions without the need for special treatments."

A polymer is a substance made of many repeating units linked together, like beads on a string. Plastics are polymers, and so are natural materials such as DNA, RNA and proteins. DNA and RNA are polymers because they are long chains of smaller units called nucleotides. Proteins are polymers made of amino acids.

Chemical bonds are the "glue" that holds atoms together in molecules. In polymers, these bonds connect each building block to the next. Strong bonds make plastics durable, but they make them difficult to break down. Gu's research focused on making these bonds easier to break when needed, without weakening the material during use.

The advance does more than make plastics degradable: It makes the process programmable.

The key to the discovery was how the researchers arranged components of the plastic's chemical structure so they were in the perfect position to start breaking down when triggered.

The process can be likened to folding a piece of paper, so it tears easily along the crease. By "pre-folding" the structure, the plastic can break apart thousands of times faster than normal. Even though the plastic is easier to break when activated, its basic chemical makeup stays the same, so it remains strong and useful until the moment the user wants it to degrade.

"Most importantly, we found that the exact spatial arrangement of these neighboring groups dramatically changes how fast the polymer degrades," Gu said. "By controlling their orientation and positioning, we can engineer the same plastic to break down over days, months or even years."

This fine-tuning capability means different products can have lifetimes matched to their purpose. Take-out food packaging might only need to last a day before it disintegrates, while car parts must endure for years. The team demonstrated that breakdown can be built-in or can be switched on or off using ultraviolet light or metal ions, adding another layer of control.

Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly.

The implications go beyond solving the global plastics crisis. Gu said the principle could enable innovations such as timed drug-release capsules and self-erasing coatings.

"This research not only opens the door to more environmentally responsible plastics but also broadens the toolbox for designing smart, responsive polymer-based materials across many fields," he said.

For Gu, the ultimate goal is clear: Plastics should serve their purpose and then disappear.

"Our strategy provides a practical, chemistry-based way to redesign these materials so they can still perform well during use but then break down naturally afterward," he said.

Early lab tests have shown that the liquid produced by the breakdown is not toxic. But Gu said that more research needs to be done to ensure that is the case.

Looking back, Gu said he was surprised that the idea sparked on a quiet mountain trail actually worked.

"It was a simple thought, to copy nature's structure to accomplish the same goal," he said. "But seeing it succeed was incredible."

Gu and his team are now taking their research in several new directions.

They are studying in detail whether the tiny pieces that plastics break down into are harmful to living things or the environment. This will help make sure the materials are safe for their entire life cycle.

The team is also looking at how their chemical process could work with regular plastics and fit into current manufacturing methods. At the same time, they are testing whether this approach can be used to make capsules that release medicine at controlled times.

There are still a few technical challenges, but Gu said that with more development, along with working with plastic makers who understand the need for sustainable plastics, their chemistry could eventually be used in everyday products.

Other Rutgers scientists who contributed to the study included: Shaozhen Yin, a doctoral student in the Gu lab who is first author on the paper; Lu Wang, an associate professor in the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology; Rui Zhang, a doctoral student in Wang's lab; N. Sanjeeva Murthy, a research associate professor at the Laboratory for Biomaterials Research; and Ruihao Zhou, a former visiting undergraduate student.

More information: Conformational preorganization of neighbouring groups modulates and expedites polymer self-deconstruction, Nature Chemistry (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41557-025-02007-3 Journal information: Nature Chemistry
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: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Humanitarian migrants (refugees) in Australia remain significantly less likely to be employed than non-humanitarian migrants, even after five years of resettlement, largely due to employer discrimination rather than any shortfall in skills or language, a study by UNSW researchers published in the British Journal of Industrial Relations has found.

Conducted by Dr. Liwen Guo, Lecturer in Economics at UNSW Business School, and Professor Massimiliano Tani, from the School of Business at UNSW Canberra, the study showed differences in education and language explain some of the employment disadvantage faced by refugees in Australia, but the primary driver is discrimination by employers due to how they screen candidates when they lack reliable information about overseas qualifications or experience.

The study's lead author Dr. Guo said, "Although relying on visible traits like race, age, or appearance may conflict with Australia's anti-discrimination laws, this kind of behavior is usually subtle and informal. Employers do not say openly that they are rejecting someone because of their background; instead, when they are unsure how to judge overseas qualifications or experience, they fall back on 'gut feeling' and visible cues.

"Because there is no explicit statement or clear evidence of unequal treatment, it is treated as implicit rather than overt discrimination, and often falls below the threshold for legal action, but it still means that qualified refugees are unfairly screened out and their skills are discounted."

To address this, the researchers recommend building more inclusive job pathways for refugees, which they say isn't just the right thing to doit's also smart economics, helping to create a stronger, more inclusive, and more productive society for all.

Refugees have poorer employment outcomes than non-refugee migrants

Combining data from two of the nation's most comprehensive longitudinal surveys: Building a New Life in Australia (BNLA) and the Household, Income and Labor Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) survey, the researchers analyzed responses from 2155 humanitarian migrants aged 1760 and 1602 non-refugee migrants of the same age range who arrived in Australia between 2013 and 2017.

The BNLA sample included refugees who were granted permanent visas through Australia's offshore and onshore Humanitarian Program, with approximately 84% referred by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) or connected to Australia through family or community sponsorship. The HILDA sample provided a comparison group of non-refugee migrants who arrived in the same period.

The study revealed refugees were about 88 percentage points less likely to be employed than non-humanitarian migrants upon arrival, and even five years later, they remained over 51 percentage points less likely to have a job, highlighting a persistent and substantial employment gap.

"We found a persistent gap that is not fully explained by differences in education, English, or other observed characteristics like gender and age," Dr. Guo said.

"Refugees earn a lower return for the skills they have, meaning that they receive a lower payoff for the same degree or Australian training than other non-humanitarian migrants who arrived in Australia at the same time."

Dr. Guo added that the persistent "discount" in how employers value refugees' skills channels many into precarious work environments. "This steers many refugees into long-term unstable or lower-paid roles, slowing not only their wage and career growth over time but also producing less tax revenue for Australia at large," she said.

Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly.

The economic cost of wasted talent

This dynamic comes at a double cost: it harms people by adding to the challenges they face, and it sets the nation back economically. "Individuals face slower earnings growth and weaker attachment to stable work. The economy loses productivity, tax revenue, and innovation that diverse teams generate," Dr. Guo said.

Poor employment outcomes have implications for mental health and well-being, as long-term job seekers experience limited access to secure income, training, and social support.

By contrast, fair recognition of overseas credentials and mentoring initiatives within inclusive workplaces can help refugees rebuild social capital and contribute fully to the labor market.

Dr. Guo said, "When qualifications are recognized and matched to roles, firms expand their effective talent pool and public returns to settlement investment rise through higher taxable income and faster integration. If you consider a 60% penalty on an average salary over a working life of 30 or 35 years, that is a lot of money.

"The loss to Australia is the lower income tax collected on that salary, and the ensuing lower consumption and savings of migrants relative to what they could do if their earning gap was smaller," she said.

"Multiply this for the thousands who resettle in Australia, and this is a pretty large loss to the country."

Why employer bias persists

The researchers said the evidence is consistent with a strong presence of statistical discrimination, where individuals or groups are treated differently based on the average characteristics of the group to which they belong, rather than their individual qualities.

Prof. Tani said, "Employers often place too much weight on visible traits, such as a person's height or appearance, when they can't easily assess overseas credentials.

"However, the size and persistence of the employment gap suggest that it's not just about this missing informationrefugees also face deeper barriers, such as employers preferring to hire from personal networks, requirements for local experience, and licensing rules that slow down recruitment.

"Employers can also say that they need someone with previous Australian experience and that cuts off most migrants."

Refugees often struggle to demonstrate their prior experience and qualifications from their home country. Organizations such as the UNHCR and the Refugee Council of Australia have long called for stronger employment services and action plans that encourage hiring refugees across diverse groups and industries.

What businesses can do

Businesses in Australia can play a leading role in breaking down these barriers by actively employing refugees and creating inclusive hiring pathways that recognize different cultural backgrounds and levels of English proficiency. Employers can also collaborate with government initiatives to access resources that support diverse recruitment and retention strategies.

Prof. Tani said, "Reducing uncertainty can definitely help here, but so can leadership from businesses and industry bodies willing to challenge outdated hiring filters.

"Two possible interventions seem to provide relevant benefits here. First, to normalize the use of employer-sponsored refugee pathways with fast-track credential recognition, provisional licensing, and supervised practice designed for the industry."

Australia has already trialed some similar initiatives with strong positive results. "The experience from the pilot programs introduced in Australia over the past five years seems overwhelmingly positive for both the sponsored and sponsors," Prof. Tani said.

The second recommendation focuses on how businesses approach the job search and hiring refugees. "We need to de-emphasize the 'local experience' filter that is often used by employers against recruiting migrants who are penalized by our own ignorance of what skills they have that can be gainfully employed in Australia's labor market," Prof. Tani said.

"For instance, use short trials designed with government and/or local industry groups to provide newcomers with the 'local experience' required by many recruiters. This can tell a lot about the 'hard-working-ness' of newcomers."

Prof. Tani said the university sector, which frequently employs staff in casual and part-time research roles, could also serve as a model for other sectors. "The university sector, which relies on short-term research assistant positions, can be an excellent industry to give highly educated refugees, of which there are many, the local credentials that prevent many employers from considering them in the first place."

An inclusive labor force is good for productivity

Tackling employer discrimination is not only an ethical responsibility but also essential for Australia's economic growth, the researchers say.

"When qualifications are fairly recognized, when skills are matched to opportunity, everyone benefitsthe worker, the employer, and the broader economy," said Dr. Guo.

In critical sectors such as health care, where skill shortages are acute, it makes little sense to overlook qualified individuals because their expertise and training were gained overseas.

"As Australia seeks to address its labor shortages and boost productivity growth, helping refugees find and retain jobs could contribute to building a more diverse and productive workforce," said Dr. Guo.

More information: Liwen Guo et al, Migrants, Refugees and Employer Discrimination, British Journal of Industrial Relations (2025). DOI: 10.1111/bjir.70016
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: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

At any single time, retail investor welfare constitutes a key focus for regulators, and this is ramping up with the surge of retail investment activity in the stock markets following COVID.

Similarly, for SMU Assistant Professor of Finance Sun Jian, the topic motivates and influences his research projects, including a recent paper that dives deep into a new proposal by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to resolve US retail trades by auction, rather than the current broker routing structure.

Formed in the 1930s to restore investor trust after the 1929 US stock market crash that crippled many global economies, the SEC is followed keenly by global counterparts when it comes to the prudential evolution of money markets.

The paper "Would Order-by-Order Auctions Be Competitive?" studies the two waysbroker routing and order-by-order auctionsthat stock trades for retail US market investors can be handled, and how they influence retail investment welfare through price efficiencies.

It was published in The Journal of Finance and co-authored by Assistant Professor Thomas Ernst, Smith School of Business, University of Maryland, US; and Professor Chester Spatt, Tepper School of Business, Carnegie Mellon University, US.

Closer to home, the research also serves as a timely contribution to current policy debates on the structure of the equity market and its implications for retail investors, even if the retail order execution mechanism in Singapore differs from the one in the US.

Case in point: authorities are striving to strengthen and increase liquidity in Singapore's stock market through a S$5 billion Equity Market Development Program.

The paper sets out pros and cons for each of the two structures that it studies. As Professor Sun told the Office of Research Governance & Administration (ORGA), the proposed auction is neither the first mechanism suggested for retail orders, nor will it be the last.

"The key contribution of this paper is to highlight the potential trade-offs inherent in any new market mechanism for retail order execution," he said.

Investor welfare

Under the SEC's current broker routing system, as its name implies, trading orders are sent by brokers to market makers, or wholesalers, for execution. The proposed order-by-order auction system, however, will see market makers compete to bid on individual trades. One advantage of this is better pricing, but as the research shows, it is not an overriding edge.

Market makers, for the uninitiated, are little-known but pivotal players in the share market that provide buy and sell quotes for trades. By doing so constantly, they ensure that there is a ready market that allows investors to trade efficiently without the delays that could arise if, for instance, a seller had to wait for a buyer before obtaining a final price.

These companies, going by less-than-household monikers like Citadel Securities, Virtu Financial, and Two Sigma Securities, also ensure prices are kept stable by, say, absorbing excess buying or selling pressure and hence preventing excessive price swings.

For example, Professor Sun explained, when a retail investor places a market order to buy one share of stock immediately, the final price to be paid remains unknown at that point in time. What happens, and it happens very quickly, is that the investor's broker receives the order and sends it off to a market maker, who then sells the stock to the investor. The investor, naturally, will want to buy at a low price, which then translates to higher investor welfare.

"Similarly, if the retail investor wants to sell one share of stock, higher welfare means selling at a higher price," the academic continued.

To give a sense of magnitude, albeit "very roughly," he explained, the efficiency of a trading system could translate to potential price differences of as high as one percent of a stock's share price.

"We are interested in a market mechanism that can give the retail investor a better price, meaning higher welfare. This will be more significant if the investor is trading more often, or trading illiquid stocks, both of which are common retail investor behavior."

Ultimately, in financial terms, this difference in welfare can be "huge" considering the aggregated potential of all retail investor activity, he added.

Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly.

Efficiencies vary

The key difference between the two systems, the research paper points out, is that now, when brokers send trades to market makerswhich must then be acceptedthere is no pre-trade communication between parties.

This means a trade may be routed to a company that has high inventory costs: the financial risks and expenses incurred to hold a stock before it is sold or bought, such as funding costs and capital charges. This, the paper sets out, could then lead to "inefficient order allocation and inventory management."

Under the auction structure, a market maker is forced to consider its costs before bidding. Theoretically, the paper notes, "the participant with the lowest realized inventory cost will always win the auction with the most aggressive bid, leading to first-best allocative efficiency."

However, it adds, this could result in the "winner's curse" whereby market makers bid conservatively to win the auction and so maximize profit. This can reduce the sell price of a stock and hence investor welfare, subject to contributory factors like the presence of institutional investors, bidding volume, and market liquidity. The research further addresses such factors and games them out under varying scenarios.

The main aim of the research, Professor Sun said, "is to challenge the simple intuition underlying the order-by-order auction proposal."

"We highlight that the proposed mechanism may not necessarily improve retail investor welfare," he notes.

"Based on current developments, it appears unlikely that this new auction system will be adopted."

Next steps

The academic and his team have since gone ahead to collaborate with several large brokers in the US market in new research focusing on the effectiveness of the current broker routing system. The new results are in their working paper "What Does Best Execution Look Like?"

Professor Sun also hoped his work can help shape public policy such as Singapore's plans to boost its stock market. After all, he said, "designing a system that provides retail investors with the best possible prices is a natural way to encourage their participation."

More information: Thomas Ernst et al, Would OrderByOrder Auctions Be Competitive?, The Journal of Finance (2025). DOI: 10.1111/jofi.13449 Journal information: Journal of Finance
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:

Male superb fairy-wrens have bright plumage, particularly in the mating season. Credit: Andrew Katsis

After years studying wild birds in the bush, Flinders University experts have described a new call type frequently used by one of Australia's favorite birds, the superb fairy-wren.

In a new article just published in Royal Society Open Science, scientists from the Flinders BirdLab and European experts describe for the first time the shrill whistle-sounding "seet" danger call of these well-known little birds.

"This newly described danger call is produced in response to predators near the nest, particularly when the nest contains vulnerable offspring, and represents a distinct component of the species' vocal repertoire," says lead author Dr. Lauren Common, Ph.D. from the College of Science and Engineering and researcher at the Konrad Lorenz research group at the University of Vienna.

"The call is given at the highest rates when chicks are still in the nest, when parental investment is high and young are most susceptible to predation, and declines after fledging."

Danger call. Credit: L Common (Flinders BirdLab)

The research team combined field observations, acoustic analyses, and experiments to document and classify the new call type. The discovery sheds light on how parents manage risk around their nests, and how evolution shapes communication when offspring are at their most vulnerable.

Senior author, University of Vienna Professor Sonia Kleindorfer, who founded the BirdLab at Flinders University, says the acoustic secrets of one of Australia's more popular birds are still being unveiled. "The discovery of a new call type in such a well-researched species highlights how much more there is to learn about avian communication," says Professor Kleindorfer, from the Department of Behavioral and Cognitive Biology at the University of Vienna.

The study shows that the danger call is consistently associated with threats to reproduction and is acoustically distinct from known fairy-wren alarm calls.

Superb fairy-wren. Credit: S Kleindorfer (University of Vienna)

"These findings expand our understanding of how small passerines encode threat information in their vocalizations and coordinate group responses," says Professor Kleindorfer.

Both sexes of superb fairy-wren (Malurus cyaneus) give a series of high-pitched trills, with males featuring dazzling breeding plumage. They have a wide-ranging habitat in eastern Australia but are showing concerning signs of decline, particularly in urban environments.

Flinders University senior lecturer in animal behavior Dr. Diane Colombelli-Negrel, director of the BirdLab research group, says the study "underscores the sophistication of fairy-wren communication and its importance for survival in predator-rich environments."

The fieldwork for this and other BirdLab research was conducted at Cleland Wildlife Park, near Adelaide in South Australia.

More information: Lauren K. Common et al, The 'seet' danger call: an active nest warning in superb fairy-wrens, Royal Society Open Science (2025). DOI: 10.1098/rsos.251100 Journal information: Royal Society Open Science
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:

Multiwavelength finding chart of the inner 0.8 pc of the Galactic center. Credit: Astronomy & Astrophysics (2025). DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/202556229

An international research team led by PD Dr. Florian Peissker at the University of Cologne has used the new observation instrument ERIS (Enhanced Resolution Imager and Spectrograph) at the Very Large Telescope (VLT) facility in Chile to show that several so-called "dusty objects" follow stable orbits around the supermassive black hole Sagittarius A* at the center of our galaxy.

Earlier studies had surmised that some of these objects could be swallowed up by the black hole. New data refute this assumption. The findings have been published in the journal Astronomy & Astrophysics.

New insights into dusty objects

The study focused on four of these unusual celestial bodies, which have been the subject of much discussion in recent years. In particular, G2 was long regarded as a pure dust and gas cloud. It was thought to have been initially elongated by the gravitational pull of Sagittarius A*, a process known as "spaghettification," before being destroyed.

However, the specific observations made with ERIS, which captures radiation in the near-infrared range, show that G2 follows a stable orbit. This is an indication that there is a star inside the dust cloud. These results confirm that the center of the Milky Way is not only destructive, but can also be surprisingly stable.

Binary star system and other findings

The binary star system D9, which Peissker and his team discovered in 2024, also remains stable despite the enormous tidal forces of the black hole. It is the first known binary star system to be observed so close to a supermassive black hole.

In theory, the stars involved in D9 could merge to form a single, more massive star due to strong tidal forces. However, the ERIS data so far show that D9 remains intact. The same applies to Objects X3 and X7, which also orbit in stable orbits and are therefore less fragile than earlier models had suggested.

Implications for galactic center research

"The fact that these objects move in such a stable manner so close to a black hole is fascinating," says Peissker. "Our results show that Sagittarius A* is less destructive than was previously thought. This makes the center of our galaxy an ideal laboratory for studying the interactions between black holes and stars."

The results demonstrate that the processes at the center of the Milky Way are more complex than previously assumed. "The supermassive black hole at the center of the Milky Way has not only the capability to destroy stars but it can also stimulate their formation or the formation of pretty exotic dusty objects, most likely via mergers of stellar binaries," says Michal Zajacek from Masaryk University in Brno (Czech Republic).

Future observations from the ERIS and the Extremely Large Telescope (ELT)which is currently under constructionshould help to further track the evolution of these objects and to understand how stars can survive even in the extreme regions of the universe.

More information: F. Peiker et al, Closing the gap: Follow-up observations of peculiar dusty objects close to Sgr A*using ERIS, Astronomy & Astrophysics (2025). DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/202556229 Journal information: Astronomy & Astrophysics
Peter Kay rejected Netflix's request to air Phoenix Nights because he did not want a trigger warning slapped on it.

Peter Kay appeared on the Capital Breakfast radio show on Friday (28.11.25) /  Global

The 52-year-old comedian said the early 2000s sitcom - which saw his alter ego Brian Potter be determined to make The Phoenix Club the best working men's club in Greater Manchester - "is not very politically correct now".

Appearing on the Capital Breakfast radio show on Friday (28.11.25), he told hosts Jordan North, 35, Chris Stark, 38, and 39 year old Sian Welby: "They got in touch with me last year because they wanted to put Phoenix Nights on Netflix.

"They rang me up and said, Can we license some of your shows to put on Netflix? Anyway, they sent me a load of paperwork.

"Basically, its not very politically correct now. This was made in a time, do you know what I mean?"

Sian laughed as she chimed in: "When things were different!"

Before Peter's refusal, the streaming giant had tempted him with an air fryer.

He continued: "I just said, Im not keen on that, I dont really want a warning before it. So, I just said, No, Ill leave it.

"Anyway, they sent me an air fryer. I think that was trying to sweeten me."

Sian responded with: "What, one air fryer? That will do it."

Peter added: "Anyway, the Netflix air fryer arrived. It was a Phillips air fryer, it wasn't even a Ninja one. But I was grateful."

Elsewhere in his radio interview, the comic - who wraps up his years-long Better Late Than Never tour in 2026 - has revealed he has penned a Phoenix Nights movie.

Peter revealed: "And its written and its done. But Im waiting for the de-aging process to come into fruition. Because the storyline involves a lot of flashbacks to the past, and I dont want to be using really bad makeup to make people look young."

He then quipped: "Seriously, when the tour is finished, Ive been thinking about it. Ive been looking at the capabilities of de-aging technology."

Proceeds from Peter's 2026 stand-up tour - with arena shows in Manchester, Liverpool, Newcastle, Nottingham, Glasgow, Dublin, Birmingham, Belfast, Sheffield, Leeds and London - will be donated to 12 cancer charities.

These are Children With Cancer UK, Teenage Cancer Trust, Kidney Cancer UK, Blood Cancer UK, Bowel Cancer UK, Prostate Cancer UK, DKMS UK, Ovarian Cancer Action, Pancreatic Cancer UK, Anthony Nolan, The Brain Tumour Charity and Breast Cancer UK.
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:

Researcher Adam Leontowich. Credit: Canadian Light Source

This fall, when Adam Leontowich headed to southeast Saskatchewan to hunt whitetailed deer and ruffed grouse, he once again opted for lead-free ammunitioncartridges with copper bullets for his .308 rifle and shells with steel pellets for his 12-gauge shotgun. It's the fourth hunting season that he's done so.

While Canada implemented a full ban on the use of lead shot for hunting migratory birds like ducks and geese in 1999, many huntersparticularly those after large game and upland game birdscontinue to use ammunition that contains lead, which is toxic to humans and linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer.

New research reveals hidden lead risks

New research published in Scientific Reports by Leontowich, a staff scientist at the Canadian Light Source (CLS) at the University of Saskatchewan, shows that fragments of lead left behind in hunted meat are far tinier than previously shown andmore alarminglypresent in concentrations exceeding levels set by human health agencies.

In a 2022 study, Leontowich showed that fragments of lead from bullets fired into ballistic gelatin (the same material used in shows like CSI) were far smaller and more widely dispersed than previously shown. This new study is the first time that such tiny fragments, some as small as 50 nanometers in diameter, have been observed in game meat harvested from actual hunting. (For comparison purposes, a human hair is thousands of times larger, at 50,000 to 100,000 nanometers in width.)

Leontowich and colleagues compared images generated with standard X-ray equipmentsuch as that used in hospitalsto images generated with synchrotron X-rays, which are thousands of times brighter, and electrons. Some agencies in the USincluding food banks in at least one state (Minnesota)use medical X-ray equipment to screen for lead in hunted meat that's been donated.

The new research, says Leontowich, proves there's no value in scanning meat for lead ammunition fragments with normal X-ray equipment because the light is not sufficiently bright to detect lead particles which are smaller than the width of human hairessentially lead "dust," and can't positively identify suspected objects as lead at all.

First-of-its-kind research reveals tiny lead fragments in hunted meat pose health risk. Credit: Canadian Light Source

Advanced imaging and health implications

"We used techniques with much higher spatial and energy resolution, so we could see finer and finer details and smaller and smaller particles," says Leontowich. "We could compare our synchrotron-based method with the hospital X-ray method and show that there are small fragments you can't see with the hospital X-rays that we can see here, and we could quantify that amount of material. We found that the amount you can't see with hospital X-rays exceeds safe levels for ingestion."

Lead poses a health risk to people who consume hunted meat, but also to scavenger animals who eat the remains left in the field by hunters.

The researchers did some of their imaging at the CLS, and some at the Advanced Photon Source, a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science user facility at DOE's Argonne National Laboratory, located outside Chicago. Data were captured at less than 10 nanometers of spatial resolution, allowing scientists to see and quantify nanometer-scale particles in the samples.

"It's always better to use as many tools as possible to look at a problem," says Leontowich. "The BMIT-ID beamline here (at CLS) provided an important part of the picture. The imaging we did at the APS gave us another perspective on this issueit allowed us to focus in even tighter and deeper into the material."

Images of several #6 lead shot impacts on a sharp-tailed grouse breast. (A) Photograph. (B) Medical radiograph. The white arrow indicates the location of a sub-millimeter scale suspicious object. (C) Digital zoom in on the suspicious object within the medical radiograph (B). (D) High resolution X-ray projection image at 30 keV of the suspicious object, now resolved as a cluster of micro-scale lead fragments. Credit: Scientific Reports (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-20285-2

He says the takeaway message from this new study is simple: There are alternative forms of ammunition that don't contain any lead, so the health and environmental impacts are eliminated. "I know from experience that it's just as effective as the lead-based ammunition for hunting, and there's no real difference in cost when you consider all the costs involved with even a one-day hunting trip. There is no real reason to continue using lead-based ammunition for hunting."

More information: Adam F. G. Leontowich et al, Lead micro- and nanoparticles directly observed within gunshot wounds in hunted game meat, Scientific Reports (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-20285-2 Journal information: Scientific Reports
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: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

When a plate drops or a glass smashes, you're annoyed by the mess and the cost of replacing them. But for some physicists, the broken pieces are a source of fascination: Why does everything break into such a huge variety of sizes? Now, Emmanuel Villermaux at Aix-Marseille University in France and the University Institute of France has come up with a simple, elegant law for how objects shatter, whether they are brittle solids, liquid drops, or exploding bubbles.

Scientists have long suspected that there was something universal about fragmentation. If you count how many fragments fall into each size range and make a graph of that distribution, it would have the same shape regardless of the object that shattered.

A formula for fragmentation

Villermaux's starting point was the massive chaos of a shattering event. He argued that, in the majority of cases, the most likely outcome would always be the messiest and most irregular one, a principle he called maximal randomness. This is nature choosing the path of least resistance.

However, because it is generally known that chaos must obey physical limits, he introduced a conservation law that his team had previously discovered. This law acts as an invisible rule that ensures the overall scale of the fragments (how many large pieces and how many small pieces) cannot change randomly as the object breaks. To come up with his universal fragmentation law, he combined both maximal randomness and the conservation law.

"A kinematic constraint applied to a maximal randomness principle infers both the power law shape of the fragment size distribution and the value of its dimensionality-dependent exponent," Villermaux wrote in his paper published in the journal Physical Review Letters.

Testing the new law

By linking these two principles, he was able to mathematically predict the universal size pattern of the fragments. He showed that the law perfectly matched large amounts of fragmentation data collected over decades from a variety of objects, including brittle solids and liquids. And he tested it in an original experiment by crushing single sugar cubes and correctly predicted the specific size pattern based on the cube's three-dimensional shape.

However, this universal law doesn't explain every breakage. The rule works best when an object shatters randomly, such as when a glass tumbler suddenly hits the floor. But it doesn't work well if the material is too soft, like some plastics, or if the breakup is too orderly, such as when surface tension causes a stream of water to break into droplets of the same size.

Written for you by our author Paul Arnold, edited by Gaby Clark, and fact-checked and reviewed by Robert Eganthis article is the result of careful human work. We rely on readers like you to keep independent science journalism alive. If this reporting matters to you, please consider a donation (especially monthly). You'll get an ad-free account as a thank-you.

 2025 Science X Network
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: Science of The Total Environment (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2025.181019

Some bat species seek shelter during the day in the attics of large, mostly historic buildings within human settlements, even though they forage for insects at night in the dark surrounding countryside.

This requires daily commuting between brightly lit districts and dark foraging grounds. A team at the Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (Leibniz-IZW) has shown that greater mouse-eared bats (Myotis myotis)Germany's largest batsprefer to use sparsely lit or completely dark areas when commuting through residential areas. In an article published in Science of the Total Environment, the team advocates for the preservation and expansion of dark corridors in towns and villages to protect nocturnal animals.

The scientific team, led by first author Dr. Daniel Lewanzik and project head Prof Christian Voigt from the Leibniz-IZW, equipped greater mouse-eared bats in three villages in the German federal states of Baden-Wurttemberg and Thuringia with miniaturized, high-resolution GPS loggers. After a few days, they removed the loggers and analyzed the bats' daily routes as they commuted between their daytime roosts and foraging grounds.

The scientists reconstructed a total of 38 commuting routes and correlated them with environmental variables such as the number of street lights and the type of light they emitted, the vegetation, impervious surfaces and the proximity to water bodies.

"Our analyses show that the bats did not choose random routes through the settlement areas, but used dark corridors as far away from street lights as possible," explains Lewanzik, who is now a conservationist at the Federal Agency for Nature Conservation (BfN). The bats exhibited this avoidance behavior towards street lights at all three locations studied.

Landscape and vegetation influence commuting behavior

Analyses of the correlation between the bats' movements and landscape features provided further clues about the commuting routes of the greater mouse-eared bat through the settlement areas: In all three study areas, the bats frequently flew along vegetation near water bodies. "They were probably not directly seeking proximity to the water, but rather using the rivers, streams or lakes as natural dark corridors," explains Lewanzik.

In the two larger settlements, bats preferred areas with natural, non-sealed surfaces; areas with an impervious surface level of 50% or more were hardly flown over at all. "Dense development and heavy lighting of roads, pavements and even green spaces leave the greater mouse-eared bats with only narrow corridors suitable for commuting between their roosts and their hunting grounds," summarizes Voigt.

There are historical reasons why this species of bat still regularly seeks its daytime roost in buildings, sometimes even in the center of a town or village: local mouse-eared bat colonies develop a very loyal to their roosts over decades, sometimes using the attics of old churches or castles for many generations, sometimes even for centuries.

However, the expansion of street lighting has only increased significantly in the last century. In addition, new sub-urban districts have sprung up on the outskirts of towns or villages over the past 50 years. This has also led to a further increase in light pollution.

Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matterdaily or weekly.

Recommendations for urban and regional planning

Advancing urbanization poses a challenge for many wildlife species, including light-sensitive bats. If dark corridors become increasingly brightly lit, bats that live in urban or sub-urban areas may be forced to abandon their colonies, according to the authors, yet alternative roosts are scarce. Colonies of bats may also decline and eventually collapse if cities grow without taking dark corridors into account.

In urban and regional planning, care should therefore be taken to ensure that dark green corridors connecting natural areas are preserved or even expanded. Artificial light, especially in green spaces and parks, but also beyond, should be limited to what is absolutely necessary. In this way, the negative impact of urbanization on biodiversity can be mitigated.

More information: Daniel Lewanzik et al, Urban sprawl and light pollution disrupt commuting corridors of urban-roosting bats, Science of The Total Environment (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2025.181019 Journal information: Science of the Total Environment
Nava Thakuria

The curtain came down for the Pragjyotishpur Literature Festival 2025 on 16 November, as two Assamese writers were felicitated in the valedictory ceremony at Srimanta Sankardeva Kalakshetra in the prehistoric city of Guwahati with gracious presence of PLF president Phanindra Kumar Dev Choudhury, chief guest Dr Apurba Kumar Saikia and a galaxy of authors, critics, journalists and literary enthusiasts. The third edition of annual PLF commenced on 14 November marking the beginning of a literary exploration with a mission searching for roots enhancing a humble dream to connect Assam's younger generation with the land's glorious literary heritage.

Tiwa scholar and a tireless researcher of the societyliteratureculturehistory, and a distinguished essayist Maneswar Dewri along with emerging short-story writer Srotashwini Tamuli were honoured with PLF awards 2025. Accepting the award, Dewri, who has for several decades enriched Assamese literature as well as research activities in culture and history of the land, expressed happiness and stated that he was deeply moved by the honour. Narrating his struggle and search works for the Tiwa ethnic community's identity amidst many challenges, Dewri added that many of his published books contain different events taking place in western Assam, which may be helpful for the research scholar and historians while penning a comprehensive history of Assam. Srotaswini, the author of an Assamese story collection titled 'Jalkhar and a research scholar at Birangana Sati Sadhani State University, admitted that receiving the award at an early stage of her literary journey had enhanced the sense of responsibility in the field of creative writing.

While addressing the closing session, Sahitya Akademi awardee Dr Saikia appreciated the three-day literary exploration with the theme 'In Search of Roots', showcasing the history, culture and languages of the land, once known as Pragjyotishpur (later known as Kamrup kingdom, where the capital was located roughly in the present day Guwahati), in the right perspective. Dr Saikia also expressed satisfaction that the festival could generate a significant enthusiasm among the budding writers, translators, journalists, theatre & film workers as well as common literary appreciators and hoped that the PLF would soon emerge as an important litfest in India.

Earlier, an analytical discussion on 'The Creative World of Novelist Birendra Kumar Bhattacharya: An Exploratory Journey', which was attended by Akademi winning writer Anuradha Sarma Pujari, storyteller Pranjal Sharma Basishtha, researcher Smritirekha Bhuyan and media columnist Rupam Barua, enlightened the audience over the creations of Gnyanpeeth awardee, who is considered as one of best novelists in the country.

Another important event witnessed a pragmatic discussion on nature literature, conducted by conservationist writer Soumyadeep Dutta, where the wildlife activist elaborated on how literature on nature can nurture the society. A vivid appreciator of Gautam Buddha's teachings, Dutta categorically distinguished between the western green writings-which are mostly human centric and the nature literature of Bharat that is dedicated to all creatures on Earth.

A reflective discussion on the expanding horizon of Assamese translated literature was also organized where Akademi (translation) award recipient Bipul Deuri, another Akademi (translation) winner Diganta Biswa Sarma and young writer-translator Dr Nayanjyoti Sharma participated. Addressing the listeners of 'Transcending Language Boundaries: The Triumphant Journey of Assamese Translated Literature', acclaimed scholar on the Indian knowledge system, Biswa Sarma opined that an honest translation is now admired as an original literary work. He also viewed that Sanskrit, though largely not a daily spoken language, cannot be neglected and it needs to be kept alive so that Indian regional languages get nourishment for the future generation. Nayanjyoti spoke about some difficulties but also a promising space for translation works from Assamese to other languages and vice versa.

The three-day annual litfest was inaugurated by distinguished litterateur Nanda Singh Barkola, who highlighted India's growing global stature while painting a vivid portrait of the nation's cultural heritage. Aligning with the festival's theme, Barkola, a senior police officer by profession, referenced to Dr Bhupen Hazarika's iconic song 'Karbi Anglong Oti Numoliya.....', while encouraging a return to pre-Sankari traditions to rediscover the forgotten literary roots. Internationally acclaimed author Shefali Vaidya, who delivered the keynote address, appreciated the festival's evolving journey along with the mission to reconnect younger generations with their cultural and intellectual heritage. Opening her speech in Asomiya, she also invoked the timeless songs of Bhupen-da, underscoring the linguistic and cultural richness of the far eastern part of Bharat.

Chairman of the organizing committee (Sankardeva Education and Research Foundation), Lt Gen (Retd) Rana Pratap Kalita and Pragjyotishpur University vice-chancellor Smriti Kumar Sinha also shared the dais. Special highlights of the inaugural day included the release of souvenir titled 'Pragjyoti', edited by Hemchandra Doley, and attendees paying floral tributes to Assam's three cultural icons namely Sudhakantha Dr Hazarika, Pranar Shilpi Zubeen Garg and flute maestro Deepak Sharma.

The unique litfest housed four intriguing sessions on the second day, where the interaction with eminent actor and playwright Prithwiraj Rabha, who spoke about his father Kalaguru Bishnu Prasad Rabha's colourful life, philosophy and struggles, stole the limelight. During a reflective session, moderated by technocrat writer Nayanjyoti Bhattacharyya, legislator Rabha brought alive the extraordinary cultural journey of his father, honoured as a towering Assamese cultural personality, from a luminous student to a legendary artist to a revolutionary preacher. Kalaguru dedicated his life to three masters namely Sri Krishna, Srimanta Sankardeva and Leonardo da Vinci, stated the illustrious son, while narrating the fascinating stories from Kalaguru's personal, artistic and revolutionary world.

Earlier, a panel discussion titled 'Assamese Language, Literature and Journalism: Growth and Expansion' attracted the attention of novice journalists, where there seasoned scribes namely Dilip Chandan, Bedabrata Dev Mishra and Bidyut Kumar Bhuyan along with this writer tried to highlight the challenges ahead of print journalism. The speakers were unanimous in views that traditional journalism while nurturing the native language can return back to the valued readers as the digital fatigue of electronic and other internet media outlets start exhausting the consumer-audiences.

In another session on 'Evolution of Assamese Performing Arts: From Ankiya Bhawana to Bhramyman', four cultural personalities viewed theatre as the mother of all performing arts. National award-winning filmmaker and playwright Kripal Kalita, much-admired performer Pakija Begum, dramatists Pankaj Jyoti Bhuyan and Hillal Kumar Pathak painted a challenging picture of Assamese theatre but with promises to be kept in the coming days. Acknowledging the contribution of Assam's mobile theatre groups, they lamented that the landscape of Assamese theatre was yet to ascertain a distinct school of tradition.

The festival's first panel discussion on 'Transformation and Evolution of Assamese Lyric Literature: From the Nineties to Present Era' was moderated by lyricist and composer Gautam Sharma, where cultural personalities Tarun Kalita, Diganta Bharati and Ibason Lal Baruah participated and viewed their cautious optimism over the future of Assamese language enriched with a vigorous literature. Two multilingual poetry sessions named Kavya Kaveri were joined by a number of popular poets, where they captivated the audience with self-composed literary recitations in different languages. On behalf of the organizers, PLF general secretary Bikram Kalita along with Kishor Shivam, Hirakjyoti Sarma, Pramod Kalita and Bhaskarjyoti Sarma lauded everyone for the fascinating deliberations in harmonious presence of author-translators, art-connoisseurs, critics, budding writers, performing artistes, translators and literature enthusiasts.

The writer is an Assam based senior journalist and can be contacted at M-98640 44917
CFE starts pole removal on Rueda Medina Avenue for Isla Mujeres underground electrical project

Isla Mujeres, Q.R.  An electrical project to replace overhead wires with an underground system has begun along Rueda Medina Avenue. Isla Mujeres Mayor Atenea Gomez Ricalde provided an update to the project Thursday.

Mayor Atenea Gomez Ricalde reported on the project Thursday night.

Federal Electricity Commission (CFE) personnel began with the removal of overhead poles along Rueda Medina Avenue Thursday night. The work is being done at night so as to not affect traffic or tourist activity.

Mayor Atenea Gomez Ricalde says this key transformation is part of the comprehensive electrical grid modernization program promoted by the municipal government.

The overhead wire transformation project to an underground system has been possible thanks to the coordinated work with the Federal Electricity Commission (CFE) and the Mexican Navy, institutions that support each technical and operational stage to ensure that the process is safe, efficient, and meets quality standards, she reported.

The work is being done at night to not disrupt traffic November 27, 2025.

Atenea Gomez said that migrating to an electrical system that is completely underground represents a profound change in how Isla Mujeres prepares for natural disasters.

An underground system is more stable, safer and drastically reduces the failures that for years affected island families during hurricane season, she explained.

She also says removing the overhead power lines will allow for the restoration of the urban landscape, one of the most traveled and photographed on the island. The removal of the overhead lines and their poles will eliminate visual pollution.

The mayor explained that work will continue into Friday and that the main avenue will be closed to traffic while CFE continue with the project using cranes.

Atenea Gomez Ricalde says a total of 51 utility poles are slated for removal along the avenue and require heavy machinery for their removal. Once this phase of the project is complete, the entire avenue will be repaved.

Atenea Gomez says next year, Rueda Medina Avenue will be repaved from the Fishermans Monument to the Chedraui pedestrian crossing.

A total of 51 poles will be removed from the islands busy avenue.

The mayor of Isla Mujeres reiterated that each section being addressed is the result of responsible planning aimed at improving mobility, strengthening security and consolidating an organized and competitive destination.

We are building a safer, more modern and more resilient Isla Mujeres where families can live better and our destination continues to shine before the world, she said Thursday night.
Gang member arrested on beach arriving to pick up company extortion payment

Isla Mujeres, Q.R.  Elements of the Investigative Police carried out an arrest warrant against a male for extortion. Police have identified Fernando Alberto N, for his alleged involvement in acts possibly constituting the crime of extortion against a company located in the Continental Zone of Isla Mujeres.

Police say Fernando Alberto N is a suspected member of a criminal group dedicated to extortion in the beach area of the Continental Zone.

According to initial investigations, in 2020, he demanded an initial weekly payment of $1,000 USD, threatening that if the amount was not paid, the business would be shut down and the lives of the employees would be threatened.

Several individuals frequented the area to collect extortion payments. Authorities identified Fernando Alberto N, who allegedly came on Fridays to receive these payments.

Recently, other people arrived at the location to report that the fee would be reduced to $700, the FGE reported.

Following the report of the incident, the Specialized Prosecutors Office for Combating Kidnapping and Extortion requested and obtained an arrest warrant from a judge against the suspect.

Fernando Alberto N was arrested by members of the FGEs Investigative Police Friday and is facing charges of extortion.
Mexico to begin construction of 6 billion peso Coatlicue supercomputer in 2026

Mexico City, Mexico  President Claudia Sheinbaum says construction of the Coatlicue supercomputer will begin next year. Mexicos new public supercomputer will bring the country the full use of artificial intelligence and data processing.

Today we dont have enough computing power, so this will help us a lot, not only in the development of science and technology, but also in the development of the country.

The president said that 375,000 computers will process data simultaneously to make weather predictions, prevent tax crimes in order to speed up the operation of customs, as well as analyze health censuses.

If Mexico wants to be at the forefront in many areas we need data processing capacity. It is a supercomputer for the people of Mexico, a public one, with a computing capacity that no other country in Latin America has.

Sheinbaum said that higher education institutions, as well as the Center for Research and Innovation in Information and Communication Technologies (Infotec) and the Potosino Institute of Scientific and Technological Research (Ipicyt), are participating in the Coatlicue project.

Mexicos supercomputer, which will be the largest in Latin America, will also be open to state and municipal agencies interested in participating, as well as the scientific community.

The Secretary of Science, Humanities, Technology and Innovation, Rosaura Ruiz Gutierrez, explained that Coatlicue will be the main node of the cluster made up of various computers.

It will be linked to the National Supercomputing Cluster made up of universities and public research centers. Those include the National Polytechnic Institute, University of Sonora, Center for Scientific Research and Higher Education of Ensenada, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Metropolitan Autonomous University and Center for Research and Advanced Studies.

It allows for precise modeling and simulation of complex problems, as well as the development of artificial intelligence systems that involve large amounts of data.

Jose Antonio Pena Merino, the General Director of the Agency for Digital Transformation and Telecommunications (ATDT), added that the Coatlicue project is part of the Mexico Plan as it links key areas such as technology, inclusive prosperity and cutting-edge scientific research.

He explained that a supercomputer is made up of thousands of processors like those found in home and office computers. In this case there will as many as 400,000 to process 314 quadrillion operations per second.

They will work simultaneously on solving a single problem by processing millions of data points solved by artificial intelligence algorithms.

He reported that the six billion peso Coatlicue supercomputer project will allow estimating the amount of surface and deep water, processing data on climate, agriculture, energy, mobility or telecommunications.

In this way, Mexico will work in a sovereign manner to solve public problems that require high computing capacity and cutting-edge scientific research. It will also offer capacity to support entrepreneurial projects and massive computing services to companies.

He emphasized that the supercomputer will be operated by Mexican engineers who will receive advanced computing training. Mexico will receive technical support from the Barcelona Supercomputing Center and the C-DAC Center for Advanced Computing Development in India.

The location of Coatlicue will be defined in January 2026 based on the availability of water resources, access to energy, seismic conditions and connectivity.
One killed several injured in multi-vehicle Riviera Maya highway crash

Akumal, Q.R.  One was person was confirmed dead at the scene of a multi-vehicle accident Friday. State Civil Protection said the accident happened near the Bahia Principe hotel Friday morning.

Three vehicles were involved in the morning crash.

Two of the involved vehicles were heading south at the time of the accident. According to initial reports, the crash occurred when three vehicles collided, one of which was a parked van.

One car was forced onto its roof and located in the central median.

The second car was found demolished in the center of the highway. From that car, one woman, reported to be an Asian-American tourist, was pronounced dead. Her body was found laying on the highway outside the vehicle.

One of the cars was left on its roof in the center median.

A second person from the car, a man, was rushed to hospital. Several people were found injured inside the hatchback that flipped onto its roof.

One person was pronounced dead at the scene.

The State Civil Protection Coordination reports a multi-vehicle accident involving several private cars on the Tulum-Akumal Federal Highway heading south near the Bahia Principe Hotel.

The National Guard and medical units are already on the scene attending to the injured. The public is advised to exercise caution when traveling in this area, Coordinacion Estatal de Proteccion Civil Quintana Roo reported Friday regarding the accident.

Several ambulances arrived to attend to the injured.

Other motorists who saw the accident stopped to help. Emergency services from Tulum attended to the scene. National Guard Highways cordoned off the area to divert traffic and facilitate rescue efforts.

The official number of injured is not known. A cause for the accident is still under investigation however, initial reports say one of the involved cars was attempting to pass the other when it hit a van parked on the highway shoulder.
Sam Thompson had a "really special" time volunteering over Christmas last year.

Sam Thompson helped spread festive cheer

The 32-year-old reality star enjoys being able to make the festive season "a little bit better" for others, and ahead of this year's celebrations, he dressed as Santa to team up with Coca-Cola in order to thanks the Christmas Makers of the UK.

The brand launched the campaign after research found 81% of Brits agree one person in every family or friendship group makes Christmas magical, but just 39% name themselves as the festive organiser.

Sam launched a 'Free Thank Yous' station in Spitalfields, London, earlier this week, where he invited passers-by to nominate the people in their lives who make Christmas happen.

Dressed as Santa, Sam then rang, video called and video messaged those nominated, delivering personalised thank yous on behalf of their loved ones.

He said: "Last year I spent Christmas Day volunteering, and it was really special. There are so many makers of Christmas  from all walks of life, creating magic for families across the UK during the festive season.

"I am so excited to help make Christmas that little bit better for the hero makers with Coca-Cola  and of course I love dressing up as Santa, so Im buzzing about that too.

And Sam himself received his own festive surprise when his best friend Pete Wicks showed up to be an extra helper - and requesting his pal say thank you to him for putting up with him all year.

Those who missed seeing the former I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! winner can still get the chance to shout out their Christmas Makers by visiting his Instagram post at https://www.instagram.com/p/DRfcA-ACKCf/?hl=en-gb, and sharing details of their nominees, with the chosen few selected to receive a direct message in the lead up to Christmas.

Coca-Cola's survey found Christmas Makers start their preparations seven weeks ahead of 25 December, spending an average of 20 hours buying presents, 15 hours cooking and food shopping, 14 hours decorating and 11 hours writing cards.

Unsurprisingly, 75% said they feel stressed about the things they need to do over the festive period, and it seems their efforts can go unrecognised as 19% admit they don't always thank or show appreciation. 35% assume their loved ones already know how valued they are, one in five (21%) don't think their Maker expects a fuss, 17% find it hard to find the right words an d 16% just get caught up in the festive rush.

As a result, 68% of Makers say they feel unappreciated, and 49% joked they plan to go on strike.

Charlotte Butt, Senior Marketing Manager at Coca-Cola Great Britain and Ireland said: At Coca-Cola, we believe in spreading joy and recognising those who make special moments happen. We want to inspire the nation to give those unsung heroes the heartfelt thank you they truly deserve.

"Every maker nominated for a shout-out, will support Coca-Colas donation to FareShare this Christmas. By extending this spirit of giving, we ensure that while we celebrate the Makers, we're also supporting communities across the UK.

As well as every Maker nominated for a shout-out supporting the brand's donation to FareShare, they will also make a separation donation, equivalent to a million meals, to support the food distribution charity.
Tropical temperatures to return as cold front 16 moves away from Yucatan Peninsula

Riviera Maya, Q.R.  Early morning temperatures around the northern portion of the Yucatan Peninsula have taken a noticeable dip. A mass of polar air from the north reached the region Thursday. Mexicos National Meteorological Service (SMN) says the polar air mass, cold front 16, will linger for the day.

For today, cold front number 16 will extend over the Yucatan Peninsula and the southeast of the national territory, bringing rain to areas along the north including the states of Yucatan and Quintana Roo.

Showers with isolated heavy downpours of 25 to 50 mm are forecast for Friday. Likewise, the polar air mass associated with the front will maintain the Norte event with wind gusts of 60 to 80 km/h in the Isthmus and Gulf of Tehuantepec and with gusts of 40 to 60 km/h along the coasts of Campeche, Yucatan and Quintana Roo.

Those winds will diminish during the afternoon. Meanwhile, a cooling of temperatures is expected in southeastern Mexico and the Yucatan Peninsula.

The SMN says for the Yucatan Peninsula, partly to mostly cloudy skies with isolated heavy showers in Campeche, Yucatan and Quintana Roo are expected for Friday. Cool in the morning, mild to warm in the afternoon.

A Norte wind event with speeds of 20 to 30 km/h and gusts of 40 to 60 km/h is expected along with waves of 1.5 to 2.5 meters in height along the coasts of Campeche, Yucatan, and Quintana Roo.

By the end of the day, cold front number 16 will enter the Caribbean Sea and cease to affect the country. Normal tropical temperatures for this time of year are expected to return for the weekend.
At the invitation of Secretary of the Russian Federation Security Council Sergei Shoigu, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs Wang Yi will travel to Russia for the 20th round of China-Russia strategic security consultation from December 1 to 2.



Xinhua News Agency: The Study Outline on Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy (2025 Edition) was published today. Could you please share more on that?



Mao Ning: As approved by the CPC Central Committee, the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs updated the Study Outline on Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy, which was first published in 2021, and released its 2025 Edition. The new edition gives an overview of the pioneering contributions and latest development of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era in the field of diplomacy. It also systemically elaborates on the epochal backdrop, profound dimensions, theoretical quintessence and rich practice of Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy. The book serves as an authoritative guide for members of the CPC, officials and the public to understand and apply Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy.

Since the dawn of this new era, with a keen understanding of the general trends in China and the world, the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at the core, developed a series of major innovations in theory and practice for Chinas external work, led the country in making historical achievements on that front and transforming it, and formed and enriched Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy. The Central Conference on Work Relating to Foreign Affairs held in 2023 established the pillars of building a community with a shared future for humanity as a scientific system and put into shape the top-level design of Chinas diplomatic strategy on the new journey. The Central Conference on Work Relating to Neighboring Countries held earlier this year gave a systematic review of the achievements and experience of the work on this front in the new era, and defined the goals and missions as well as the method and steps in this regard in the years ahead.

Under the strong leadership of the CPC Central Committee, we in the diplomatic service hold high the banner of building a community with a shared future for humanity, advocate an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, implement the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, the Global Civilization Initiative and the Global Governance Initiative, work to build a more just and equitable global governance system through reform, expand the global network of partnerships and advance the high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. We on the diplomatic front firmly uphold national sovereignty, security and development interests, and actively act on the abiding commitment of serving the people through diplomacy. As the major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics is advancing on all fronts, China enjoys enhanced international influence, stronger capacity to lead new endeavors, and greater moral appeal.

Guided by Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy, Chinas diplomacy will follow the principles of self-confidence and self-reliance, openness and inclusiveness, fairness and justice, and win-win cooperation, create a more favorable external environment for the endeavor of building China into a great modern socialist country and advancing the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation through a Chinese path to modernization, and make greater contribution to peace and human progress.

CGTN: What does China expect to achieve through the upcoming China-Russia strategic security consultation?



Mao Ning: China and Russia are comprehensive strategic partners of coordination for a new era. Through the strategic security consultation mechanism, the two countries maintain regular exchanges on major issues of mutual interest that have strategic and overarching significance. Director Wang Yi will be traveling to Russia for the upcoming consultation. The aim is to implement the important common understandings reached between the presidents of the two countries, have an in-depth exchange of views on international and regional issues of mutual interest, and strengthen communication and coordination on important issues that bear on the strategic security interests of the two countries.

Bloomberg: Yesterday, Foreign Minister Wang Yi had a call with his French counterpart and the Chinese readout said that he asked the French to cooperate on the core issues of both sides. We understand obviously Taiwan is one of the core issues of the Chinese state. Did Wang Yi have any specific mention about cooperating on the issue of Taiwan to the French? Does China plan to bring this issue up again when President Macron is here next week?



Mao Ning: Weve released a readout about the phone call you mentioned. On the exchanges between the Chinese and French presidents, I have no information to share at the moment.

RIA Novosti: U.S. President Donald Trump said the United States is now ahead of Russia and China in the space race after creating the Space Force. What is the Foreign Ministrys comment?



Mao Ning: China is committed to the peaceful use of outer space, and opposes any arms race in outer space or weaponizing it. China has no intention to engage in a space race with any country, nor do we seek so-called advantage in outer space.





Global Times: Prime Minister Sanae Takaichis erroneous remarks have been opposed and criticized by visionary people in Japan and the wider world. Yet, the Taiwan authorities kept backing Takaichi. Days ago, Lai Ching-te conveyed his support by eating sushi, and Taiwans foreign affairs department said that the mainlands letter to the UN Secretary-General contains rude and unreasonable content. Whats your comment?



Mao Ning: Japan exerted colonial rule on Taiwan for half a century and committed innumerable crimes there. The DPP authorities keep ingratiating themselves with Japan to seek Taiwan independence. That is simply disgraceful.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichis remarks on Taiwan interfere in Chinas internal affair, send a gravely wrong signal to Taiwan independence separatist forces and endanger peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese Peoples War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and Chinas recovery of Taiwan. Japan should deeply reflect on its war crimes, learn lessons from history, adhere to the one-China principle, and exercise utmost prudence when it comes to the Taiwan question. We ask the Japanese side to retract the erroneous remarks, stop interfering in Chinas internal affairs, and take practical steps to honor its commitments to China.

Ukrinform News Agency: Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov this week in an interview with Sky News stated that Russia is in talks with China regarding efforts to end the war in Ukraine. Can the Foreign Ministry confirm that such negotiations with Russia are taking place, and if so, could you add some specifics on the issues being discussed, and whether China is discussing or planning to discuss peace in Ukraine with Ukraine itself?



Mao Ning: China always believes that dialogue and negotiation are the only viable way out of the Ukraine crisis. We support all efforts conducive to peace. Since the crisis broke out, China, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council and a responsible major country, has maintained communication with relevant parties, including Russia and Ukraine, and played a constructive role in promoting the political settlement of the crisis.

Bloomberg: Your colleague made a statement yesterday that the San Francisco Treaty is illegal and invalid. Is it the contention of the Chinese government that state of war still exists between Japan and 47 other parties of the treaty?



Mao Ning: As my colleague stressed yesterday, the so-called Treaty of San Francisco was issued with the exclusion of important parties to the WWII, such as the Peoples Republic of China and the Soviet Union, in order to seek a separate peace deal with Japan. The document goes against the provision of not making a separate armistice or peace with the enemies in the Declaration by United Nations signed by 26 countries in 1942, including China, the U.S., the UK and the Soviet Union, and violates the UN Charter and the basic principles of international law. Anything set out in the treaty on the sovereignty over Taiwan or the handling of the territory and sovereign rights of China as a non-signatory, is thus entirely illegal and null and void.

Bloomberg: China did sign a peace treaty with Japan in 1978, correct? This is after the Treaty of San Francisco. So in 1978 the Chinese position was that they did accept the San Francisco Treaty. And now your position is you dont accept the San Francisco Treaty. Is that correct?

Mao Ning: Your understanding is not correct. China has never recognized anything set out in the Treaty of San Francisco, including on the sovereignty over Taiwan or the handling of the territory and sovereign rights of China as a non-signatory, and has never accepted the treaty. The 1972 Sino-Japanese Joint Statement clearly states that The Government of Japan recognizes the Government of the Peoples Republic of China as the sole legal Government of China. The Government of the Peoples Republic of China reiterates that Taiwan is an inalienable part of the territory of the Peoples Republic of China. The Government of Japan fully understands and respects this stand of the Government of the Peoples Republic of China, and it firmly maintains its stand under Article 8 of the Potsdam Proclamation. The four political documents between China and Japan provide clear provisions on the Taiwan question and other issues, and together they constitute the political foundation of China-Japan relations.

Hubei Media Group: Its reported that according to the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. formally designated Cartel de los Soles as a Foreign Terrorist Organization from November 24, imposing sanctions on its members, including President Nicolas Maduro and other high-ranking officials. Venezuelas Foreign Ministry said in a statement that Venezuela firmly rejects the ridiculous fabrication by the U.S., which designates the Cartel de los Soles as a terrorist organization, and its a lie to justify an illegitimate and illegal intervention against Venezuela. Whats Chinas comment?



Mao Ning: China opposes unilateral sanctions that have no basis in international law or authorization of the UN Security Council and the interference of external forces in Venezuelas internal affairs under any pretext. We call on the U.S. side to lift the illicit unilateral sanctions and choose the course of action that is conducive to peace, stability and development in Latin America and the Caribbean region.
Each week, Prudence asks readers for their thoughts on the letters shes received. Her reply will be available every Friday only for Slate Plus members.

Hey Prudence,

Re Bloody Bathroom: Reading through the comments, it seems my kid is a disgusting slob and Im a terrible parent. Yikes. But heres the thing I think people are missing.

Theres a wide range of bathroom behaviors at issue in that first letter. My 15-year-old routinely leaves towels and clothes on the floor and definitely does not wash out the sink every time she brushes. She will even occasionally forget to flush (I blame the phone permanently attached to her hand). But the tampon on the floor is truly vile and has never been an issue with my kid. Suffice it to say, I think treating this entire spectrum of messiness/disgustingness as the same seems a touch dramatic.

I think my kid is a fairly typical teen (getting worked up for ADHD, so theres that; I think it contributes). I maintain a very neat, clean household otherwise and certainly make her clean up the bathroom, but it is a constant effort that has not been improved by (1) being a good example, or (2) teaching her the value, importance, and how-to of cleaning. Do I hope shell learn eventually? Yes. Is she a horrible brat because she leaves towels on the floor? No. Am I a terrible parent because my teenager is not yet as tidy as I am in my 40s? God, I hope not. Was I on the messier side as a kid and did I learn how to maintain my space? Yes, yes I did.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

The kid in the first letter is not irredeemable. Her mom is not necessarily a lazy parent, as the letter writer suggests (and as so many comments seem to endorse, geez!). LW1 needs to understand that theres a lot of daylight between not washing toothpaste out of the sink twice a day and dropping a used tampon on the floor. He may not be suited to living with a preteen/teen. It takes a little bit of flexibility on cleanliness sometimes (did she really not have these behaviors at 10? Or did mom do a lot more cleaning up after a smaller child? Did the kid even live with him then?). If he wants to stay in this relationship, I think a practical solution is to draw a hard line with the truly gross stuff (no tampons on the floor! Ever! No excuses!) but work with the kid on the other stuff with positive reinforcement. Or, since the kid is not his and they dont seem to have a great relationship, make sure mom is on board with this plan and have her implement it while LW exercises a bit of patience.

Advertisement

Knowing that the sink may not be washed out after every brushing, it may make sense eventually to let the kid have the other bedroom/bathroom to reduce conflict between LW and the kid. Not in the immediate aftermath of Tampon Gate, but as a longer-term solution. Three people sharing one bathroom is a lot when another available bathroom is going unused.

Holmey

Great perspective. I especially agree with the letter writer taking a backseat to mom on this issue.

Hey Prudence,

Re I Wish I Were Ready: This letter writer sounds a lot like my ex. He loved me. He totally wanted to marry me! Definitely wanted a family. But after two years, he wasnt ready. Didnt know when he would be. But he wanted to marry me! Totally!

Advertisement

Today, Ive been married for over a decade and have a kid. My husband was clear from the beginning that he wanted to marry me, so we werent together long before the wedding. My ex just turned 54, and Im pretty sure were still on that break he initiated to figure out his feelings. Im sure Ill hear from him any day now!

Advertisement

Congratulations on being a lifetime boyfriend! Hope it works out for you. At your rate, youll be getting married by the time you qualify for Medicare.

Also, you two live together and have been exclusive for over two years. Youre already spending your life with her. That you dont see that means you are so not ready to be married to anyone.

TaylorNotSoSwift

Or maybe when he meets the right person he will suddenly be ready! Either way, my wish for his girlfriend is that she feels a sense of peace and security, and that might mean finding someone like your husband instead of the LW.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Hey Prudence,

Re I Wish I Were Ready: I was where the LW is now. I really wrestled with the decision to get married, and I think this is common for people who get married later than our parents generation.

My girlfriend (now wife) was losing patience, and I knew I needed to make a decisionat 39. One night, my older sister gave me the best advice of my life, which I think you need to hear now. So, 24 years of marriage and three kids later, I give you her wordsverbatim, which I have saved for such occasions as this:

Advertisement

Listen, what you are going through is totally normal and I have had this conversation with so many of my friends, Ive lost count. The truth isthere is no one person for you and there is no magic answer to your question. You dont just get a marriage. You dont just get a relationship. Every relationship you have, whether its your spouse, your kids, your parents, your family, your employerEVERY relationship is generally about as good or as bad as you decide to make it.

Sure, there are exceptions and Im not talking about abusive or exploitative relationships, but generally speaking, real relationships take work. Every day. If you dont feel like your relationship is good today, then you get out of bed and ask yourself: What have I done to make my relationship better today? And you keep asking yourself that every day.

Heres your problemthe theoretical possibility of something else out there, some other relationship, is ALWAYS going to seem more attractive than the mundane reality of a real relationship you have, because it is imaginary and perfect and unburdened by any of the messiness or reality of real people. Your problem is that you havent yet closed the door to those outside possibilitiesand until you do, you wont know. But if you close the door on those other possibilities and focus on what you have and making what you have what you want, you may find it is all that you want. You may not, but you know each other well and youll get to the heart of that pretty quickly.

But this isnt just your decisionits hers too. And you need to do that together.

One other thing: I have never told you what to do because youre stubborn and push back when people tell you what to do, but for what its worth, I think shes great and really gets you, understands you and loves you for who you areboth the good and the bad. Thats the hardest thing of all to find and thats a pretty good place to start. Work on making what you have what you want, and youll know the answer quickly.

Advertisement

Advertisement

So, the LW should think over the best advice I ever got. Youd be surprised what clarity a little focus can bring.

Demosthenes2

Thank you for this! I feel like we need to somehow get your message to go viral on TikTok so it can spread among the youth!

Get advice from Prudiesubmit 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 Prudence, * Your letter signoff Your pronouns Your email (optional and confidentialplease include if you're open to Dear Prudence following up) Submit

Hey Prudence,

In response to Baby Is His Maybe: Its also possible that your son knows he isnt the father. It could be a sperm donor (or egg donor) or even a donated embryo. So many parents go this route today and dont tell the family. Regardless, Prudies suggestion stands: Back off.

Still His Baby

So true! This is definitely a possibility. And even if we knew for a fact that he was completely clueless, let me say it again: Back off!

Hey Prudence,

Re Baby Is His Maybe: Genetics are funny. Inheritances are random and can lie dormant for generations before being expressed again. I would caution you against accusations of infidelity. I am biracial (half Black, half white). I have dark hair and eyes, and darker skin. My husband has blond hair and blue eyes, as do all of his parents and grandparents.

Advertisement

Although my oldest child has blond hair now, they were born a redhead (they lost the red hair in their first three months, and it grew back a strawberry-blond color). We assumed that my second child would look more like the first, but #2 looks like me. And then #3 was born, and they also had red hair, which they have to this day. To be clear, all three kids are 100% biological siblings with the same parentageand they are each distinct: a blond with green eyes, a brunette with brown eyes, and a redhead with blue eyes.

Advertisement

Advertisement

As it turns out, both my husband and I have distant relatives with red hairhis great-great-grandfather and my great-grandfather. My grandmother had red hair as a child, but it gradually darkened as she grew older, in the same way that very fair-haired children often end up with darker blond hair. Im willing to bet there are other redheaded relatives a few generations back that no one is aware of.

Genetic Lottery

Im going to forgive myself for not thinking about the genetic possibilities here because I never claimed to be a science advice writer. But youre absolutely right.

Classic Prudie

About 15 years ago, when I was a young teenager, I told a lie that seemed harmless at the time but as an adult, I now realize that my lie could have cost total strangers their jobs.
A Brazilian immigrant, identified as the mother of Karoline Leavitt's nephew, was arrested on 12 November 2025, by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Revere, Massachusetts.

The woman, Bruna Caroline Ferreira, who has lived in the United States since 1998 and was once a DACA recipient, was detained while driving to pick up her son. She now faces removal proceedings to Brazil.

The arrest  occurring close to the Thanksgiving holiday  has sparked public interest because of her link to the White House press secretary and has raised questions about the scope of ongoing immigration crackdowns.

Mother of Karoline Leavitt's Nephew Arrested by ICE

Ferreira was taken into custody during what family members described as a routine trip to pick up her 11-year-old son in New Hampshire.

ICE agents intercepted her in Revere, placed her under arrest, and later transferred her to a detention center in southern Louisiana. She is currently in immigration court proceedings where she faces potential deportation.

Who is Bruna Caroline Ferreira

Ferreira, a Brazilian-born immigrant, is the mother of a child she shares with Michael Leavitt  the brother of White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. She and Michael were previously engaged and share joint custody of their son.

According to family sources, Ferreira and Karoline Leavitt have not been in contact for many years. According to CNN, the child has lived with his father full-time in New Hampshire since birth.

Ferreira Has Lived in the US Since 1998

Ferreira arrived in the US in December 1998 when she was just a child on a B-2 tourist visa, which required her departure by mid-1999. She remained in the country and grew up in the US, eventually receiving protection under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.

Loved ones say she has spent nearly her entire life in the United States, raising her son, maintaining steady employment, and contributing to her community.

DHS Explains Why ICE Arrested Her

According to the Department of Homeland Security, Ferreira is classified as an 'unlawfully present' immigrant because she overstayed her tourist visa more than two decades ago. DHS also cited a prior arrest for battery as part of the justification for her detention.

Her attorney disputes those claims, insisting that Ferreira has no criminal record and was already in the process of obtaining permanent residency when she was detained.

Officials also emphasized that Karoline Leavitt had no involvement in the arrest and was not notified in advance.

'Karoline had no involvement whatsoever in this matter', a DHS spokesperson clarified.

Family Launches Fundraiser to Fight Deportation

Following her detention, Ferreira's sister, Graziela Dos Santos Rodrigues, created a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for legal fees and travel expenses needed to support the family during the immigration case.

The fundraiser has surpassed $15,000 (11,404.20), with Rodrigues writing that her sister has lived in the US 'nearly her entire life', has followed the law, and deserves a chance to remain with her child.

The family expressed deep concern that Ferreira's son now faces the holiday season without his mother.

'Any amount, no matter how small, will make a difference. If you're unable to donate, sharing this page also helps more than you know', said Rodrigues.

Ferreira's family still needs donations as their goal is to reach $30,000 (22,810.80).

Originally published on IBTimes UK
The Canam Banker asserted himself on the front end and upset as the longest shot on the board, defeating five rivals over a surface labelled good in the $11,500 Preferred Handicap Trot at Rideau Carleton Raceway on Thursday, Nov. 27

Starting from the inside, The Canam Banker clashed with Raising Rusty (Melanie Plourde) and Tyrone Bow Tie (Pascal Berube) early and forced both of them take back as he secured the lead in a :28.4 quarter. He headed the single-file group to the half in 1:00 for Guy Gagnon but was prompted to up the tempo to three-quarters in 1:28.2 as Tyrone Bow Tie, a 12-time Rideau Preferred winner this year, came calling out of the three-hole. But The Canam Banker repelled him at the top of the lane and strode to his first career Preferred win by 2-1/4 lengths in 1:58.3. Tyrone Bow Tie held off Raising Rusty for second.

The Canam Banker, trained by Carl Duguay, is now five-for-34 this season. The four-year-old son of The Bank-Fiery Ash took his ninth win in 67 career starts, raising his earnings to $134,903. Duguay, of Trois-Rivieres, Que., co-owns the gelding with Investissement KFB of Sorel-Tracy, Que. The winner returned $23.40.

Exotic Sand remained perfect in the Rideau ranks as he stretched his win streak to six in the $8,000 conditioned pace later on the card. Marie-Claude Auger drove the seven-year-old grey gelding to a gate-to-wire 1:56.2 score, keeping him undefeated since moving to Rideau and the John MacMillan barn in October. The son of American Ideal-Jus Chilln Out, owned by MacMillan of Odessa, Ont. and 2099551 Ontario Inc. of Greely, Ont. was a half-length clear of Lovemyrockinbird (Sylvain Lacaille), who closed for second over Stonebridge Hermes (Plourde).

Live harness racing at Rideau will continue on Sundays through the conclusion of the 2025 meet on Dec. 14.

To view Thursdays harness racing results, click the following link: Thursday Results - Rideau Carleton Raceway.

(Standardbred Canada)
Apple's iPhone Air is now an example of what not to do in the market as it flopped in its release and was never able to bounce back or improve its sales. Now, many of Apple's rivals are reportedly opting to cancel their developments in this niche.

Apple's iPhone Air Flop Is Causing Industry Fears

According to a new report by DigiTimes Asia (via MacRumors), Apple's iPhone Air has a significant impact on the industry, and this is because the ultra-thin smartphone's sales flopped in the market.

The industry is now reportedly taking this as an example or a lesson to steer clear of developing their own version of an ultra-thin device, with many fearing suffering the same fate.

The report talks about how multiple Apple rivals across China have now opted to pull back on their ultra-thin smartphone developments that were meant to challenge the iPhone Air in the industry.

Apple significantly suffered from the iPhone Air as, according to MacRumors, reports of poor sales led to manufacturing cuts from the Cupertino tech giant's partners, with supply chains also joining in. Foxconn was reportedly the first to put the hammer down for Apple as it dismantled all iPhone Air production lines and was later followed by Luxshare in October.

It is known that Apple had opted for massive trade-offs for the iPhone Air to be possible as it only received a single rear camera, but it also got a smaller battery. All these came at a cost, which was not that appealing among customers.

Rivals Cancel Ultra-Thin Smartphone Development

As mentioned by DigitTimes Asia, many rival companies, especially major Chinese smartphone brands, have either canceled or shelved their ultra-thin smartphone development due to the iPhone Air's performance.

Companies like Oppo, Vivo, and Xiaomi are said to be among those who have either scrapped or pulled back on their ultra-thin smartphone plans and focused on other models instead.

Xiaomi was previously planning to bring a "true Air model" to go toe-to-toe against Apple's iPhone Air, with Vivo aiming to deliver a midrange smartphone from its S series that would be noticeably slimmed down.

Both of these reported developments from the two Chinese smartphone brands are no longer going into production, but it is said to only be "halted" for now.

The Chinese companies mentioned above have yet to share any official comments or announcements regarding the cancellation of their ultra-thin smartphone developments.

On the other hand, Samsung was the first to compete with Apple as it released a Galaxy S25 Edge variant as a first in its lineup, but it was reported to be a one-and-done model for now.

According to a Korean publication, Samsung has now moved to cancel the supposed Galaxy S26 Edge release, attributing it to poor sales of this year's Galaxy S25 Edge.

Originally published on Tech Times
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission.

Credit: Getty Images/MF3d

Chinese startup Zhonghao Xinying is offering a home-grown General Purpose Tensor Processing Unit (GPTPU) as an alternative to international AI training and inferencing hardware, like Nvidia's graphics cards, and Google's TPUs, as reported by the South China Morning Post. These ASIC chips are said to be up to 1.5 times faster than Nvidia's 2020 A100 release based on its Ampere architecture.

Although this is several years and generations behind the capabilities of the latest hardware from its international competition, this shows increasing competitiveness for global compute power and how China may have a path to silicon independence in the future as it explores both traditional GPU and ASIC designs as alternatives.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

The "Ghana" chip was developed at the company by Yanggong Yifan, who previously attended Stanford and the University of Michigan to learn electrical engineering. He also worked on chip architectures at Google and Oracle, with specific design work on several generations of Google's TPUs. Co-founder Zheng Hanxun previously worked at Oracle and Samsung's Electronics research and development facility in Texas.

They claim the new TPU uses only self-controlled intellectual property for the core design, with no reliance on Western companies, software stacks, or components for development, design, or fabrication.

Our chips rely on no foreign technology licences, ensuring security and long-term sustainability from the architectural level, the SCMP quotes Xinying as saying earlier this year, highlighting his understanding that national security is now closely intertwined with access to semiconductors.

They claim that the Ghana chip is capable of delivering 1.5 times the performance of Nvidia's A100, as well as "reducing power consumption to 75 per cent using a manufacturing process that is an order of magnitude lower than that of leading overseas GPU chips."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

If true, that would be an impressive achievement, but not unheard of gains for an ASIC, which is a purpose-built chip that excels at certain functions by stripping out all unnecessary compute elements found in more general-purpose silicon, like GPUs.

Still, if this Chinese TPU design is even close to what they claim, it should be quite powerful. The A100 was cutting-edge hardware five years ago, although even 1.5 times that performance would still put Ghana well behind the Hopper designs from 2022, and far, far behind the latest Blackwell Ultra hardware.

But for a Chinese market that is still smuggling in these older GPUs? That might be plenty.

All of this comes at an intriguing time for the AI chip industry. Although Nvidia has been a dominant force and the face of the industry for the past year, Google's recent announcement to start renting and then selling its own TPU silicon to Meta has opened up the possibility, and the very idea, of direct competition. It's a small-fry deal, despite being worth billions, but as alternatives appear in the West, so they do in the East as China pushes for more domestic chip production and support, via energy subsidy carrots, and mandated quota sticks.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

GPUs like those developed by Nvidia and, to a far lesser extent, AMD, will likely remain the most versatile methods for training AI for some time to come, but ASICs like Google's TPUs, and perhaps even those from firms like this, could offer an intriguing alternative for companies looking to break free from the Nvidia near-monopoly.

Or just to get access to hardware. Memory prices, silicon shortages, and trade barriers can all get in the way of even accessing the GPUs your company needs. In their absence, unproven ASICs may be a viable alternative.

Credit: Future

Follow Tom's Hardware on Google News, or add us as a preferred source, to get our latest news, analysis, & reviews in your feeds.
Costumed humans pretending to be robots at an Iranian tech expo in November. (photo credit: screenshot)

Acne scars, blinking and breathing revealed the "advanced" robots were people in costumes.

Footage from Irans 2023 Kish Inox Tech Expo has gone viral after it was discovered that the beings presented as advanced technology humanoid robots were actually just people in costumes and make-up.

While presented to attendees as advanced robots, visitors quickly realized that the figures were simply people in costume. The acne scars, regular breathing, and natural blinking gave away their less-than-mechanic nature, according to Turkish site Haberler.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

Footage circulated online of the two robots, one man and one woman. They wore white outfits, glasses, and a series of zeros and ones plastered to their clothing to reference code.

Iran denies trying to pass costumed humans as advanced robots.

Commenting on the now-viral incident, Iranian channels have claimed that they never intended to present the people as robots, and it was part of a performance at the expo.

Hossein Afshin, a senior official in Iran for Science and Technology and Knowledge-based economy, told officials at the sidelines of a government meeting that the performance was a company decision, according to the Iranian site Zoomit.

"I only know that one of the companies did this for its own advertising. Consequently, it has no objection, and it must definitely accept its responsibility," he said. "This was not something that the policymakers of the Innotex Kish exhibition did, or it was not the exhibition's ideas to use humans as robots."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

The performers described themselves as a collection of data that work together in a shared data code, according to a translation provided by Roya News. They claimed they were also capable of tasks associated with Artificial Intelligence.

This year's expo. was held under the slogan "Discovering the future, with the support of governmental institutions and the participation of the private sector," according to BBC Persian.

The expo claimed on its website that the opening was attended by high-ranking Iranian officials, investors, and business delegations from around the world.
Alibaba Group Holding on Thursday launched its first artificial intelligence glasses in China, as the tech giant seeks to carve out a solid niche in the growing smart wearables market.

The Quark AI Glasses, named after the company's Quark AI assistant, include three versions each of the series' flagship S1 model and the lightweight G1 model. Alibaba owns the South China Morning Post.

"AI glasses are the intelligent devices that truly usher in a revolution in human-computer interaction in the AI era," Alibaba vice-president Wu Jia said at the product launch. "In this respect, their importance is no less than that of mobile phones."

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team.

With prices starting at 3,799 yuan (US$537), the S1 has a dual-chip system that features Qualcomm's Snapdragon AR1 processor and a low-power coprocessor. This model provides "intelligent, hands-free assistance for everyday life" - from answering user questions and real-time translation to payments and navigation, Alibaba said at the launch.

The G1 glasses, which cost from 1,899 yuan and weigh 40 grams, share the S1 model's core hardware, except for the display.

Alibaba's Quark AI Glasses series is expected to present a fresh challenge to Meta Platforms' consumer-ready smart glasses with a built-in display - the Meta Ray-Ban Display, released in September - as well as similar smart wearable devices from Chinese firms Rokid and Xiaomi.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

The Meta Ray-Ban Display glasses, priced from US$799, feature a full-colour display in the right lens, while the Quark AI Glasses are equipped with a monochrome green display.

A woman tries on a pair of Quark AI Glasses from Alibaba Group Holding at the company's exhibition booth during the World Internet Conference in Wuzhen on November 8, 2025. Photo: Reuters alt=A woman tries on a pair of Quark AI Glasses from Alibaba Group Holding at the company's exhibition booth during the World Internet Conference in Wuzhen on November 8, 2025. Photo: Reuters>

The launch came months after Alibaba previewed the Quark glasses in July, which stirred excitement for the company's first smart wearables.

The company started presales of the glasses in late October on major domestic e-commerce platforms - including Taobao, JD.com and ByteDance-owned Douyin - but had not announced plans for its overseas release.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

In the first half of 2025, the global smart glasses market saw shipments more than double, driven mostly by strong demand for Meta's glasses, along with new offerings from Xiaomi, according to market research firm Counterpoint.

Xiaomi in June launched its own smart glass model that costs 1,999 yuan, while Baidu's Xiaodu AI Glass Pro went on sale earlier this month priced at 2,299 yuan.

Hangzhou-based AI and augmented reality start-up Rokid earlier this month introduced lightweight AI glasses priced from 2,199 yuan. The product was developed in partnership with Chinese eyewear brand Bolon.

Compared with its domestic rivals, Alibaba on Thursday touted the deep integration of its Quark AI Glasses with its extensive app ecosystem - from mapping service Amap and online shopping marketplace Taobao to online travel agency Fliggy and mobile payment platform Alipay, operated by fintech affiliate Ant Group.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement

Alibaba said it was also working with external partners to "deliver a unified experience across shopping, travel, payments, music and productivity". The partnerships include Tencent Holdings' QQ Music and NetEase Cloud Music.

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.
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: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

A power developer has a novel plan to build a $4 billion data center in rural southwestern Minnesota, as well as an armada of wind, solar and battery plants the company hopes will attract a wealthy buyer.

Somewhere among the farm fields that dominate the landscape around the tiny enclaves of Brewster and Reading, Geronimo Power envisions a project that could eventually use as much electricity as roughly 1 million homesdwarfing other data centers proposed in Minnesota.

The development would be remarkable for its rural location, its size and Geronimo's idea to bundle clean power with a data center.

The plan also reflects how Minnesota's energy sector is changing at a breathtaking pace, and the lengths businesses, local governments and electricity providers will go for a piece of the volatile but lucrative artificial intelligence industry.

The data center might never happen. Geronimo hasn't cleared the most important hurdle: persuading a U.S. tech giant such as Google, Amazon or Apple to buy the data center and renewable energy.

Geronimo's plan has also been met with mixed feelings in the epicenter of Minnesota's renewable power sector, where some bristle at the idea of turning more corn and soybean fields into wind and solar installations.

Geronimo and the small Nobles Cooperative Electric hope to win over skeptics by pitching themselves as responsible and transparent while building a more environmentally friendly data center that would usher in a once-in-a-generation economic transformation.

"Nobles County will never see anything like this again, ever, I don't believe," said Adam Tromblay, CEO and general manager for the cooperative. "We're dying communities down here, and we're going to be able to bring so much life and vitality into these places with these good jobs."

Bloomington-based Geronimo's main business is building renewable power. The idea for a data center came as more large tech companies, with ambitious goals to reduce their carbon footprint, signed up to buy Geronimo's clean energy, said president Blake Nixon.

Energy demand has spiked with the growth of cloud computing services and AI. For Geronimo, that's what makes selling new clean power with a data center a potentially attractive option for tech companies.

Geronimo would develop the data center complex in phases through the early 2030s. It would start with a $4 billion campus, and then hopes to add an estimated $6 billion development later on. The company would build three wind and battery projects, as well as a solar and battery farm to help power the data center.

Minnesota has no large-scale data centers yet, but developers have proposed more than a dozen. Most are in the suburbs of Minneapolis and St. Paul. Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, is building the state's first large-scale data center in Rosemount.

Some data center projects have been controversial for their potential electricity use, water consumption and secrecy.

Geronimo says its project would use a minimal amount of water for cooling. The company has not asked local governments to sign nondisclosure agreements. Geronimo also hopes its clean energy plans will help reduce the concerns of environmental advocates who fear the data center boom will threaten Minnesota's climate goals.

One reason Geronimo wants to build in southwestern Minnesota is to use up cheap surplus wind power that is now wasted because of limited capacity on power lines.

Geronimo estimates the data center would create about 1,000 construction jobs, as well as roughly 180 full-time jobs to operate. It could bring in tens of millions of dollars every year in local tax revenue, said Jordan Burmeister, Geronimo's senior director of development.

Tromblay said a data center would allow the cooperative to improve its infrastructure with new projects such as burying power lines, and he said the income would help stabilize electric rates for other customers.

It's unclear if that will be enough to win trust in local communities.

Southwestern Minnesota is already home to wind farms and is a growing hub of solar production. Geronimo's three wind projects would cover 100,000 acres.

The Fultz family farms corn, soybeans and pigs in southwestern Minnesota and plans to host wind turbines for the Plum Creek project tied to the data center.

Eric Fultz worries that building so much new renewable power will lead to higher electric bills, and he questioned whether the grid will be reliable. Still, several family members said the prevailing view in the area is that wind, solar and data centers are inevitable as the economy changes, even if not everyone is thrilled with the industries.

Eric's brother Denny said income from the turbines will be a "nice little bonus" when income from farming fluctuates.

"This area has got three big natural resources," Denny Fultz said in an interview at the family's shop office in Tracy, Minn. "Black dirt with plenty of moisture to grow good crops. It has the sun and the wind. Until 20 years ago, we were only using the one natural resource, the black dirt."

Geronimo's Summit Lake solar and battery project has upset many in and around Reading, Minn., because the panels would surround some houses and crowd the town's borders.

Debra Rogers is one of a handful of landowners who wrote to state utility regulators earlier this year, asking them to reject the Summit Lake plan.

Under Geronimo's initial proposal, solar panels would have covered the farm land on three sides of Rogers' home, where she has lived since 1990 and raised three children.

Rogers said she loves the quiet, rural character of the area. She has a view now of maple trees in her front yard, a playset for her grandchildren and rows of crops that stretch to the horizon. She wonders if deer and other wildlife that roam her property will disappear if solar is built.

Rogers said she doesn't bring up the solar project in the community, because not everyone sees it the same way.

"I just feel if this does go through, it's going to cause friction between neighbors and friends," Rogers said.

Geronimo says it's redesigning the layout of the solar farm after local frustration.

Local buy-in is not the only challenge for Geronimo.

One is whether the cooperative can handle such a large customer. The data center could eventually use about 27 times more electricity than Nobles' entire system.

"We're this little $23 million-a-year co-op," Tromblay said. "I'm going to be asking (a data center company) for hundreds of millions of dollars in deposits because I don't have that cash."

The rural location also presents unique challenges.

Most data centers are near population hubs. That helps reduce latency for services like streaming video, said Andy Cvengros, co-leader of the data center markets team for real-estate firm Jones Lang LaSalle.

Proximity to cities is less important for sites focused on artificial intelligence, he said. But there are limits.

"You go build a 20-building, gigawatt campus in the middle of nowhere, where are those people going to stay?" Cvengros said. "Are there hotels? Are there restaurants? Do they have to drive two hours to work every day back and forth?"

Back in Tracy, a white stake marks the site of one turbine in a field of black soil that, after a recent rainfall, cakes boots like cement. The stake is a sign of economic promise in the region but also the speculative nature of the power industry and the changing market.

The Plum Creek wind farm hasn't come to fruition since it was proposed nearly a decade ago. "Electricity was going to the metro," Eric Fultz said about the original wind farm pitch.

He knows that project timelines and business strategies don't always turn out as first envisioned. But, he added, "It's a little frustrating."

2025 The Minnesota Star Tribune. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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:

Schematic illustration of chiral bifacial NFA, CISS effect and application to organic solar cells. Credit: Angewandte Chemie International Edition (2025). DOI: 10.1002/anie.202518505

Organic solar cells are made from conductive polymers, which makes them cheap, light, and flexible. However, one drawback is that their efficiency lags behind the best silicon devicesbut this may soon changeas researchers from Japan have developed a new method to improve organic solar cell performance.

In a study, "Chiral Bifacial Non-Fullerene Acceptors with Chirality-Induced Spin Selectivity: A Homochiral Strategy to Improve Organic Solar Cell Performance," published in Angewandte Chemie International Edition, researchers from The University of Osaka describe new semiconducting polymers for organic solar cells to improve electron flow and efficiency. This was achieved by changing the type of symmetry of the acceptor molecules, which can improve the efficiency of organic solar cells.

How organic solar cells work

In organic solar cells, electron donor molecules absorb light and give electrons to electron acceptor molecules, leaving behind electron "holes." To be able to generate electricity, electrons and holes must remain separated and be moved to an external circuit to prevent them from recombining.

Organic semiconducting polymers have a much stronger attraction between electrons and holes than silicon semiconductors, meaning recombination is a major hurdle to achieving high efficiency in organic solar cells.

Preventing recombination can be influenced by symmetry. Molecules can have two symmetrical sides that are mirror images of each other, but asymmetric left to right molecules have left and right sides that are not mirror images.

Similarly, vertical asymmetry means that the top and bottom of the molecule are different, so there are two mirror-image versions of the whole molecule that cannot be superimposed, similar to hands. This property is called chirality.

a) Conventional achiral indacenodithiophene (IDT) and the chiral bifacial IDT framework developed by our group. b) Chemical structures and CISS properties of poly-(S,S)-IDT and poly-(R,R)-IDT previously developed using the chiral bifacial IDT backbone. c) Molecular structures of the chiral bifacial NFAs developed in this work based on the chiral IDT core, and their CISS characteristics observed in neat and BHJ films. EH denotes the 2-ethylhexyl group. Credit: Angewandte Chemie International Edition (2025). DOI: 10.1002/anie.202518505

a) Chemical structures of the chiral bifacial NFAs, (S,S)-IE4F and (R,R)-IE4F, and the reference compounds rac-IE4F (1:1 mixture of (S,S)- and (R,R)-IE4F) and achiral meso-IE4F. b) Power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of organic solar cells (OSCs) employing PBDB-T:IE4F bulk heterojunction (BHJ) active layers. c) Device architecture of the OSCs. d) Light-intensity (Plight) dependence of short-circuit photocurrent density (Jsc) for OSCs. The inset table shows the fitted S values obtained from the relation that Jsc is proportional to the S-th power of Plight. e) Proposed mechanism of suppressed charge recombination in chiral NFAs exhibiting the CISS effect. Credit: Angewandte Chemie International Edition (2025). DOI: 10.1002/anie.202518505

The role of chirality and spin

"We knew that using electron acceptor molecules that are asymmetric left to right could boost organic solar cell performance by preventing recombination," says lead author, Shuang Li. "But chiral acceptors that have vertical asymmetry hadn't been explored."

Vertical asymmetry has several important benefits. The acceptor molecule has a greater difference in charge between the top and bottom. Meaning the molecules pack together and mix better with donor molecules, improving the flow of electrons, says corresponding author, Fumitaka Ishiwari.

"Most importantly, we thought that these acceptor molecules could show chirality-induced spin selectivity," explains senior author, Akinori Saeki.

Chirality-induced spin selectivity arises from electrons having an up or down "spin" on its axis. Each mirror-image acceptor molecule preferentially conducts up- or down-spin electrons, giving a spin-polarized current in which one spin dominates.

"This effect is really interesting because spin-polarization separates electrons and holes better, so it decreases charge recombination, which is a major problem in organic solar cells," Saeki adds.

The creation of a spin-polarized current from the mirror image molecules led the organic solar cells to show power conversion efficiencies of about 8%, which is three times higher than the non-mirror-image version.

Using mirror-image molecules to prevent recombination with spin-polarized currents is a new design strategy that could increase the efficiency of organic solar cells and potentially provide cheaper, cleaner, and greener electricity generation technology.

More information: Shuang Li et al, Chiral Bifacial NonFullerene Acceptors with ChiralityInduced Spin Selectivity: A Homochiral Strategy to Improve Organic Solar Cell Performance, Angewandte Chemie International Edition (2025). DOI: 10.1002/anie.202518505 Journal information: Angewandte Chemie International Edition
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: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

Dell Technologies Inc., HP Inc. and other tech companies are warning of potential memory-chip supply shortages in the coming year due to soaring demand from the build-out of artificial intelligence infrastructure.

Consumer electronics makers including Xiaomi Corp. have sounded the alarm about potential price increases, while others, including Lenovo Group Ltd. have begun stockpiling memory chips in anticipation of rising costs. Counterpoint Research this month forecast a 50% price rise for memory modules through the second quarter of next year.

A shortage would threaten to increase the costs of manufacturing everything from phones to medical equipment and cars. Such chips are used in virtually every modern electronic device that stores data.

The AI boom is indirectly to blame. There are two types of memory chips, ones that help with processing and ones that store information. Manufacturers are allocating more production to meet demand for new, more complex and profitable products used in AI systems, causing a shortage of more common types of memory.

Dell has never seen "costs move at the rate" that they are now, Chief Operating Officer Jeff Clarke said on a call with analysts on Tuesday. The company has seen tighter supplies of dynamic random access memory, DRAM for shortwhich includes high-bandwidth memory for AI to the chips powering personal computersas well as of hard drives and so-called NAND flash memory, he said. "The cost basis is going up across all products."

Dell will work on its configurations and product mix, but Clarke said he sees the impact inevitably reaching customers. The Texas-based computer maker will consider all options, including repricing some devices, he said.

U.S. sanctions have also worked to exacerbate the supply crunch by limiting the technological capabilities of new Chinese entrants.

Palo Alto, California-based HP sees the latter half of 2026 as particularly challenging and will increase prices where necessary, Chief Executive Officer Enrique Lores told Bloomberg News in an interview.

"For the second half, we are taking a prudent approach to our guide, while at the same time we're implementing aggressive actions" like bringing on more memory suppliers and putting less memory in products, he said. The company estimated that memory accounts for 15% to 18% of the cost of a typical PC.

The race to build AI infrastructure has already raised energy bills in areas near large data centers. It's also lifted the valuations of the world's top memory makers. Shares of South Korea's Samsung Electronics Co. and SK Hynix Inc., along with Micron Technology Inc., have surged in recent months as inventories dwindle and supply challenges crystallize. SK Hynix said last month that it's sold its entire memory chip lineup for next year, while Micron expects supply will remain tight into 2026.

Japan's Kioxia Holdings Corp., which specializes in NAND production, saw its stock increase multiple times over following its December public listing, propelled by the same tight supplies.

"Everything that's related to memoryadvanced or conventionalis in very strong demand and supply is lagging," Sanjeev Rana, head of research at CLSA Securities Korea, said after Samsung issued earnings last month. "We are likely to see this DRAM and NAND price upturn lasting several quarters from here."

Suppliers of logic chips, the kind that process data and are critical to building AI systems, may also see their business affected as their customers may refrain from placing orders if they can't secure enough memory.

China's top chipmaker Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corp. has noted that the memory shortage is coming as manufacturers prioritize business with the world's largest AI chip provider, Santa Clara, California-based Nvidia Corp.

Nvidia in turn has placed an emphasis on assembling its highest-value, most advanced systems bound for AI data centers. SMIC warned that a shortage of memory may constrain car and electronics production in 2026.

In Beijing, Xiaomi jacked up the price on its marquee device and said it expects a shortfall in memory chips will lead to price increases for mobile devices next year, too.

Lenovo has touted its economies of scale and said it sees an opportunity to grab more market share by leveraging its supply chain while competitors struggle. Still, Chief Financial Officer Winston Cheng echoed Dell's remarks, also calling the cost surge "unprecedented."

Apple Inc. has given one of the most sanguine of assessments. CFO Kevan Parekh acknowledged on a call with analysts that there's "a slight tailwind" on memory prices and some "new products do have a slightly higher cost structure." But he stressed that Apple is managing costs well. Like Lenovo, Apple's position as one of the top customersif not the top customerfor many players in the electronics supply chain helps it secure strong terms for ongoing supply.

Lenovo's memory inventories are meanwhile roughly 50% higher than usual, Cheng told Bloomberg TV. Taipei-based Asustek Computer Inc. has also raced to stockpile, with both PC makers planning to hold prices steady in the holiday quarter and reconsider the market situation in the new year.

Chey Tae-won, chairman of SK Hynix parent SK Group, also warned of a supply bottleneck earlier this month. "We have entered an era in which supply is facing a bottleneck," Chey said in a keynote speech at the SK AI Summit in Seoul. "We are receiving memory chip supply requests from many companies, and we are thinking hard about how to address all demands."

2025 Bloomberg News. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Missouri residents will be required to verify they are older than 18 before accessing adult-only content online by the end of November. Websites and apps in which more than one-third of the material is considered "harmful to minors" would fall under the new law.

Missouri is the latest state to enact age verification, as more states adopt the growing national trend to keep children safe online.

Privacy Risks and Data Security Concerns

Though the new law requires online services to use reasonable measures to protect user data and forbids retaining personal information unless it is required by law enforcement, experts warn that these protections may not be enough.

Websites and apps must verify the age of a user before allowing access. The acceptable methods of verification include government-issued identification, digital identification, or other transactional data. Providers that do not comply could face fines of up to $10,000 per day, as violations are considered unlawful under Missouri law.

Molly Buckley, an associate director of activism at the Electronic Frontier Foundation, denounced the bill, saying that the law endangers the people by building a "dangerous" surveillance infrastructure. With that, it appears to be forcing the users to hand over their sensitive and personal identity data.

As TechRadar recalls, past incidents, including Discord's third-party service hack in the UK, which exposed over 70,000 government ID photos, serve as reminders of the risks. The age verification systems can also be prone to data leaks that put the personal information of millions of users at risk.

Big Tech's Role in Missouri's Age Verification

The Missouri law also requires that mobile operating systems, with at least 10 million devices in the U.S., implement a digital age verification system for websites and apps. This poses a major problem for tech giants, such as Google and Apple, whose Digital ID functions are so far intended only for government use, such as driver's licenses or passports.

John Perrino, Senior Policy and Advocacy Expert at the Internet Society, noted that Missouri's bill is similar to legislation passed across various states. These actions, while aiming to make the internet a much safer place, could raise issues related to increased surveillance, censorship, and privacy risks.

Even if the Digital ID is technically secure, users may feel uncomfortable storing and sharing sensitive documents such as driver's licenses or passports simply for accessing restricted websites and apps.

Originally published on Tech Times
The New Democratic Party (NDP) carved out a new general election strategy, cranked up its campaign prowess, spent lavishly from what seemed to have been a well-stocked treasure chest, de-emphasized its previous elections focus on picking away at Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, concentrated on advancing its "plan for the continued development of the country, and in the process took the reins of government from the Unity Labour Party (ULP) by the resounding margin of 14 to 1, in the Thursday 27th November, 2025 general election.





As it stood long before the stroke of midnight and even on the basis of the preliminary count, the NDP had been returned to government after being at the mercies of the winds of opposition for the better part of twenty-four years, and the ULP was told to start thinking about adopting to its new role in opposition, having been unable to create even "more history by copping a six consecutive victory at the polls.





A victory not seen coming





Preliminary results of the count for the November 27, 2027 general election showed that the NDP had turned the tables with added victorious in eight constituencies.





In the last twenty-four years, not since the 2001 general election when the ULP won 12 of the 15 seats, has there been such an overwhelming victory as the NDP performed in 2025.





No one saw this coming. A victory for the NDP some felt was on the cards, but not in this exacting manner.

And while it might be pre-mature to speak of the popular vote, it is more than likely that the NDP would have, like it did in the 2020 general, taken that numerical advantage. The popular vote while providing the basis on which to build a concerted effort at the pools, does not translate into any parliamentary clout, given our first past the post electoral system.





Debutants and more





Of the fourteen seats the NDP won, six of those were protected by incumbents, all of whom romped home with increased votes. Eight were brought into the fold by first time winners. Of those, five - Dr. Kishore Shallow (North Leeward), Andrew John (South Central Windward), Kaschaka Cupid (West St. George), Phillip Jackson (Marriaqua) and Conroy Higgins (Central Leeward) - were debutant candidates. The remaining two were taken by second time candidates - Shevern John in North Windward and Israel Bruce in North Central Windward.

This contrasted with the ULP whose debutants  Darron John (South Central Windward), Dr. Grace Walters (North Windward, Keisal Peters (West Kingstown), Marvin Fraser (Central Kingstown) and Grenville Williams (South Leeward) were all unsuccessful, John and Walters failing to protect constituencies that had been the domains of the ULP since 2001.





Things of note  looking ahead





Of note is that Shevern John became the first female to be elected to the Parliament here since the ULP Rene Baptiste and Girlyn Miguel. She also became the first female to be elected to that northerly constituency.





On the other side of the coin, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves became the first candidate in the history of modern politics in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, to be returned by the voters on six consecutive occasions. His popularity with voters in the North Central Windward constituency translated into him increasing his tally of votes over his 2020 outing.





And while that is an accomplishment of which he should be justly proud, he will feel a sense of loneliness in Parliament without the likes of Saboto Caesar and his son Camillo Gonsalves at his side.





It is anticipated that the ULP will now put in earnest a succession process that will see Dr. Gonsalves handing over leadership of the party.





The NDP meantime, has to retreat to deliberate on the best distribution of ministerial portfolios predicated on the qualification and skills of its parliamentary caucus.





THE VINCENTIAN congratulates the New Democratic party and its leader Dr. Godwin Friday on their exceptional achievement.





We also want to wish Dr. Ralph Gonsalves a period of rest and reflection that will prepare him for his new role.

And as we look towards the next five years of governance under a new entity, THE VINCENTIAN looks forward to a period characterized by honesty, transparency and respect for all.
Garnet Jeffers (third from left) hands over an item to Andrea Ashers, President of the NSPD, while other members, including Terrence Davis (stooping) display samples of the donations.

The National Society of Persons with DisAbilities (NSPD) is positioned to further empower its members, thanks to assistance from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).





A formal presentation of items last Monday, November 24, 2025, at the NSPDs base at the former Kingstown Anglican School building on Higginson Street, took the process a step further.





The items included computers (desktops and laptops), monitors, printers, saws and other equipment.





Garnet Jeffers, the UNDPs Youth and Citizen Security Analyst for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, as well as the Country Officer for St. Vincent and the Grenadines, who handed over the items, gave a background to the initiative.





"This is part of our track funding, where we pick initiatives in countries and try to assist them every year, Jeffers said.





Explaining the process, Jeffers disclosed, "A number of organisations would have put forward proposals. These proposals were submitted, and they were put up for a review by the board, and upon the NSPDs proposal, the organization decided it was worth funding, so we moved forward to implementation.





Whilst deemed a small project by Jeffers, he gave a breakdown of the cost.





"It is roughly about $30 000; the equipment is about $17 to $20 000. For the training we will actually be paying for the facilitators, organizing venues, meals, etc. We have taken into consideration that there are persons who are deaf, so there will be sign language involved and there are persons with other disabilities, so it will not be like any other ordinary training. Jeffers informed.





Meanwhile, Terrance Davis, speaking on behalf of the NSPD, exuded gratitude to the UNDP for its benevolence.





"Let me first say thank you to the UNDP for coming on board with our organization, and this programme is truly at a point when it is really needed our members over the years have shown that we are able to do stuff and this is one of the things that will even propel members not only for the job market, but to give them a skill needed to enhance or develop, Davis stated.





Looking forward with great anticipation, Davis added, "It is a timely project, and I am praying and hoping for the best that our members fully utilized the opportunity afforded them.





Davis will be pivotal in the execution of the project as he along with others will help with some aspects of the training (e.g. computer usage) which begins early December, 2025 for members of the NSPD and other disabled (differently abled) persons.





Even as it welcomes the UNDP donation and is excited to get doing to making full use of the equipment therein, the NSPD also has its eyes on December 03 which is designated International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD).





The Day is about "promoting the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities at every level of society and development, and to raise awareness of the situation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of political, social, economic, and cultural life.





The NSPD will organize activities to mark that Day as would other organisations who serve differently abled persons here in SVG.





Persons are urged to take note of the date, December 03, and join with disAbled persons/differently abled persons in activities that would advance their cause.





About the NSPD: The National Society of Persons with disAbility (NSPD) was founded in 1987. It was the first organization whose membership was comprised entirely of adult disabled persons with a wide range of physical, sensory, intellectual/developmental, and mental/behavior challenges. For the first time, disAbled persons were organized to advocate on their own behalf, and not be dependent on abled bodied persons to do so for them.
Phillip Pierre (left) and his SLP aim to break the trend and win a second consecutive term, but Allan Chastanet (right) and the UWP are determined to continue the trend by turning the table of victory this time around.

Parliament was dissolved on Monday, November 10 and Nomination Day was Friday, November 21 paving the way for St. Lucias general elections on Monday, December 01, 2025.





Nomination Day was reportedly filled with much frolic, and activities were not far different from what obtained on Carnival street parades.





When nominations were complete, it showed that three political parties were registered to participate in the general elections.





The incumbent St. Lucia Labour Party (SLP) will field candidates in 15 of the 17 constituencies; the main opposition United Workers Party (UWP) will field candidates in all 17 constituencies; and the National Congress Party will field two candidates.





Nine independent candidates are contesting in five constituencies.





When general elections were last held in July 2021, the Phillip Pierre led opposition St. Lucia Labour Party romped home to victory with an overwhelming 13-4 margin.





In the process, the SLP displaced the incumbent UWP, led by Allan Chastanet, which had enjoyed an 11-6 majority in the Parliament.





The two major parties will be led, once again, by the same men who lead them in 2012.





Pierre and Chastanet





Phillip Pierre has been the leader of the St. Lucia Labour Party since June 2016. He has represented the Castries East constituency in the House of Assembly since 1997.





Allan Chastanet was elected leader of the opposition United Workers Party in 2013. He won the parliament seat for Micoud South constituency in the 2016 general election and was subsequently sworn in as Prime Minister.





Both political leaders made statements following their nominations.





Phillip Pierre told the media: "This election is about progress. Its about people. And nomination day reminds us that the Labour spirit is alive in every constituency.





Allen Chastanet said, "All 17 of our candidates are officially nominated and the message is clear: the United Workers Party is READY. Ready to lead, ready to serve and ready to deliver real solutions for the people of Saint Lucia.





Interestingly, no party, since 2006, has managed to retain office for more than a single term. In 2011 the UWP lost the election to Labour, regained power in the 2016 elections, taking 11 of the 17 seats in the House, only to return to Opposition with just 4 seats after the 2021 election.





No Anthony





Of note is the absence of Dr. Kenny Anthony from the SLP ticket. Dr. Anthony, 74, who served as prime minister for three terms and was nd parliamentary representative for Vieux Fort South for 28 years, in May this year officially announced his retirement from active politics.




Experts warn of dangerous signs of Japan's militarism revival

Xinhua) 08:49, November 28, 2025

BEIJING, Nov. 26 (Xinhua) -- Experts in both China and Japan have warned that the international community must remain very vigilant against the dangerous trend reflected in Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's recent Taiwan-related remarks, which revealed Japan blatantly undermining the post-war international order and reviving militarism.

Takaichi said on an official occasion that the Chinese mainland's "use of force on Taiwan" could constitute a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan and implied the possibility of Japan's armed intervention in the Taiwan Strait. Despite multiple representations and protests from China, the Japanese side has refused to retract the remarks.

Xiang Haoyu, a research fellow in the Department for Asia-Pacific Studies of the China Institute of International Studies (CIIS), stated that as Japan's incumbent prime minister, Takaichi's comments indicate that the right-wing forces in Japan are attempting to use the "China threat" rhetoric and tensions in the Taiwan Strait as pretexts to break free from its pacifist constitution and promote their agenda to remilitarize the country.

Xiang noted that this dangerous sign requires intense attention from the international community.

Su Xiaohui, a CIIS associate research fellow, believes that the recent erroneous statements by Takaichi were driven not only by her personal political needs to cater to domestic right-wing forces, but also signaled a deeper and ongoing trend of political rightward shift in Japan. The ultimate aim is to break the "exclusively defense-oriented policy" established in Japan's constitution, an attempt that poses a serious threat to regional security.

The Potsdam Proclamation explicitly stipulates Japan's complete disarmament, and Japan's pacifist constitution also pledges to "forever renounce war as a sovereign right of the nation and the threat or use of force as means of settling international disputes." These provisions are the conditions under which post-war Japan was accepted by the international community, and they are international law obligations that Japan must abide by, Su said.

Wang Xu, a researcher at the China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations, believes that Japan's recent remarks suggesting the possibility of armed intervention in the Taiwan Strait situation constitute a blatant threat of war. She said a series of actions by Japan in recent years have effectively undermined and altered the principle of the exclusively defense-oriented policy, both institutionally and substantively.

The experts also pointed out that cooking up external threats and creating a "sense of crisis" have been an old tactic of Japanese militarist forces. In the past, Japan has repeatedly used similar pretexts to launch wars of aggression and disrupt regional peace.

In 1931, Japan claimed whether it could seize "Manchuria" was a "survival-threatening" issue and used that as a pretext to invade and occupy northeast China.

It later claimed that defending "the Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere" was an existential battle for Japan, and used that to expand its aggression to the entire Asia.

It attacked the Pearl Harbor using the same pretext, bringing the war to the Pacific ocean.

However, the absurd logic of viewing the territory of other nations as essential to its own survival and accompanying acts inevitably lead to its own failure.

Japanese scholars are also expressing their clear disagreement with Takaichi's relevant comments. Magosaki Ukeru, a former Japanese foreign ministry official, pointed out that such claims are completely unfounded. Noting that the Taiwan question is purely China's internal affair, he said the Japanese government should strictly adhere to its political commitments regarding Taiwan.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered that all people aboard an alleged drug vessel were killed by a U.S. strike in September, prompting the military to conduct a second strike to finish off survivors, according to a new report.

Citing two people with knowledge of the operation, The Washington Post noted that a second strike was conducted to kill two survivors of the first strike, which had already destroyed the vessel and killed nine.

"The order was to kill everybody," one of the people said about Hegseth's orders. The strike was the first one of the ongoing military campaign that has so far killed more than 80 people.

Todd Huntley, a former military lawyer who advised Special Operations forces for years, told the outlet that the actions amount to "murder." Ordering the strike when surviving crew members were no longer able to pose a threat "would in essence be an order to show no quarter, which would be a war crime," he added.

Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell rejected the report, saying the "narrative is completely false." "Ongoing operations to dismantle narcoterrorism and to protect the Homeland from deadly drugs have been a resounding success," he added.

The commander who oversaw the mission, Adm. Frank M. "Mitch" Bradley, justified the measure saying the survivors could have called other drug traffickers to retrieve them and their cargo.

Protocols were changed after the strike, the report added, directing troops to rescue suspected smugglers if they survived the strike. That happened in one that took place on October 16, when two men were captured and sent to Ecuador and Colombia.

Originally published on Latin Times
More than 30 years after his departure from The Tonight Show, Johnny Carson is still often viewed as the best thats ever done it. In addition to his wonderful, funny interviews, a big part of Carsons legacy is how he shaped comedy for decades to come.

During Carsons reign as host, featuring a comedian on the show would massively boost their career. As Drew Carey told me, The Tonight Show was such an important credit. It was a legitimacy that I needed. After I did it, all of a sudden I was getting all these offers.

As such, much of Careys success can be traced back to his first appearance on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, and the same is true of these comedians.

Advertisement

10 Andy Kaufman Andy Kaufmans greatest talk show appearances were on Late Night With David Letterman, but he had a successful first appearance on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson. Kaufman came out on January 21st, 1977 as his Foreign Man character that would later become Latka on Taxi. While it's unclear if Carson knew that Kaufmans character was a front, Carson played the straight man perfectly as Kaufman deliberately stumbled through the interview. Kaufman then painstakingly read a children's book aloud before getting to his act of terrible, punchline-less stand-up comedy, followed by a repertoire of awful celebrity imitations. Carson didnt quite make Kaufmans career the way he did some others, but his first Tonight Show was an excellent showcase. Advertisement

9 Roseanne Barr Just a few years into her stand-up career, on August 23rd, 1985, Roseanne Barr began making waves with her groundbreaking Domestic Goddess persona, which talked about her life as a housewife and how she specifically objected to that term. While Barrs signature snark and attitude would eventually be played completely straight, its charming to see her break and chuckle at a number of her own jokes. She also commanded the stage with lines like So, Im fat. I thought Id point that out, before complaining about her husband and explaining why fat moms are better than skinny moms.

8 David Spade David Spade appeared on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson on August 14, 1991less than a year after he debuted on Saturday Night Live. Spade immediately began with self-deprecating jokes about his youthful appearance, saying My name is David Spade and Im 12, before adding that his mom just dropped him off. Many of his appearance-related jokes received only smatterings of laughter, as did his complaints about River Phoenixs vegetarianism, which ages especially poorly.

7 Ray Romano Ray Romanos signature whine was first heard on November 15, 1991. Whereas most young stand-up comics were bachelors during their first time on Carson, Romano stood out with jokes about his wife and new baby. The domestic, relatable humor was a hit with the audience and led to his hit sitcom Everybody Loves Raymond. Advertisement Advertisement

6 Tim Allen On November 13, 1991 Tim Allen performed on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson as an already-established star. Tim Allen had risen to fame by doing various stand-up comedy showcases like Comedys Dirtiest Dozen in 1988 and Rodney Dangerfield: Opening Night at Rodney's Place in 1989, but on The Tonight Show, Allen brought out his regular guy comedy, and talked about cars and his German-Irish ancestry. His material was also laced with an element of dark humor, like saying he hated his grandmother. And, of course, there was plenty of grunting.

5 Steven Wright Steven Wrights legendary deadpan comedy paired with non sequitur, brilliantly-written jokes debuted on August 6th, 1982. Carson warned I think youre going to find him a little different, when introducing him, and Wright immediately cracked up the audience by responding Thanks. He then opened with I had a dream that all the babies prevented by the pill showed up  they were mad. It was a stunning performance by a singular comedic voice, made only more impressive by the fact that it was Wrights first time on national television. Advertisement

4 Eddie Murphy At just 20 years old, Eddie Murphy appeared on The Tonight Show during his tenure as SNLs biggest star. On New Years Day, 1982, Eddie Murphy strolled out without a hint of nervousness. His material was a little raunchier than most, at least for NBC at the time, as one of his topics was the lack of bulge underwear models seem to have. He also mentioned prostitutes, homosexuals and how risky it would be to be the first Black president. None of it was nearly as edgy as what would appear in stand-up specials like Delirious and Raw, but his act was more risque than any of the other performers on this list. Advertisement

3 Jay Leno Jay Lenos first Tonight Show appearance was March 2nd, 1977. Lenos material, which talked about various idiosyncrasies of news reports and growing up with parents who came up during the Depression, got a lukewarm response initially, but he finished strong.. Advertisement

2 Garry Shandling Garry Shandling first appeared on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson on March 18, 1981. His neurotic, sarcastic material included waiting to hear your name called at restaurants and what camping is like when youre Jewish. Shandlings performance was strong, but some of his best material would come decades later, when he was deconstructing late night comedy on The Larry Sanders Show.
Authorities have accelerated their investigation into an anonymous individual accused of blackmailing and defaming actor Lee Yi Kyung, with law enforcement now taking steps toward uncovering the suspect's identity through newly approved digital evidence collection.

According to the police, the case has enlarged significantly with the court order for accessing the suspect's online accounts.

A report by AllKpop stated that the investigation started to gain momentum after new developments emerged this week.

According to a report from Dispatch on November 24, "a court issued a search and seizure warrant on November 21 for the social media accounts belonging to the suspect, known as 'A.'"

Additional reporting by Insight provided details on which platforms the search targeted. Officials said they intended to gather "key evidence, such as IP addresses and log data from A's Naver and X accounts."

Both Naver and X reportedly were cooperating with the investigation after receiving the formal request.

Per The Korea Times, the case first came into light on October 20 when 'A' posted an article on Naver Blog titled "Revealing the Real Lee Yi Kyung," which contained some private conversations and screenshots.

'A' claimed in the post to have had private conversations with the actor and published what they alleged were KakaoTalk messages and Instagram DMs.

The agency of Lee Yi Kyung has strongly denied the allegations. They said, "The claims were fabricated," and the actor filed a criminal complaint for blackmail and defamation to Gangnam Police Station.

The actor also publicly addressed the situation on November 21. He explained that someone "claiming to be German" had sent threatening emails to his agency and had repeatedly appeared and disappeared, contributing to months of distress.

He further stated that 'A' admitted within a day that their claims were fabricated, only to vanish again shortly afterward.

Lee Yi Kyung also explained rumors of his departure from "Hang Out with Yoo." He revealed that though the suspect withdrew their accusation, "he was encouraged to step down from the show," and the situation had really hurt him, especially when linked with a different "noodle-slurping controversy."

He finished his message by highlighting a belief in the investigative process: once the warrant took effect, "the suspect will soon be identified." He added that if 'A' truly resided in Germany, he would travel there to pursue a formal complaint.

Meanwhile, the suspect continued to display erratic behavior, now vacillating between saying the charges were "a joke," then claiming the pictures were AI-generated before later recanting the statement again. Authorities say identifying the individual remains their top priority as the investigation expands.
The Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT) has issued a warning about a large-scale global cyberattack campaign known as ClickFix, which is rapidly spreading and targeting accommodation facilities across the country, including hotels, homestays and resorts.

The alert follows a rise in cases where hackers have used phishing techniques to impersonate emails from popular booking platforms such as Booking.com and Expedia, amid forecasts of surging room reservations ahead of the New Year and Tet (Lunar New Year) holidays.

According to the VNAT, attackers are sending fraudulent e-mails with familiar subject lines such as booking confirmation, customer complaint, payment update or reservation cancellation, designed to mimic genuine platform correspondence. With interfaces almost identical to real e-mails, distinguishing authentic messages from fake ones has become increasingly difficult. With tens of thousands of accommodation providers operating on online booking platforms, the risk of attack is significant, particularly as many reception and reservations staff have not received sufficient cybersecurity training.

Experts from BKAV, a technology corporation specialising in cybersecurity, software, e-government and smartphone manufacturing, explained that these emails often contain links or Excel files disguised as invoices or booking information but embedded with malicious code. Clicking on links or opening attachments can instantly trigger malware. ClickFix is powered by PureRAT  a remote-access trojan that allows attackers to monitor users, steal account credentials, expand attacks and remain hidden for prolonged periods. Notably, the campaign appears to operate under an Attack-as-a-Service model, meaning that anyone can purchase tools pre-loaded with malware and carry out attacks without advanced technical skills  increasing the scale and impact of malicious code dissemination.

Cybersecurity experts advise email users to remain vigilant, carefully check sender addresses, and avoid opening unfamiliar attachments or links. They recommend accessing booking platforms only through official websites or apps.

Meanwhile, accommodation providers are urged to deploy email monitoring systems, antivirus software and advanced anti-malware solutions, as default operating-system protection offers only basic security and cannot defend against modern, persistent viruses and ransomware./.VNA
On the morning of November 28, residents of Ho Chi Minh City were greeted by the coldest temperatures since the beginning of the year, with many weather apps reporting a drop to 19C. The cool air brought a striking contrast to the citys usual tropical heat, with many likening the feeling to walking the misty hills of Da Lat.

Early in the morning, clear skies and light winds combined with the lower temperature to create an atmosphere rarely seen in the southern metropolis.

Many locals expressed excitement and surprise at the rare chill. On major streets, people bundled up in thick coats and scarves to keep warm.

"I was honestly freezing this morning," said Ms. Hang, a resident in Saigon Ward. "I had to wrap myself in a thick coat and scarf. It really felt like Da Lat. It was strange but refreshing."

Parents also dressed their children warmly before sending them to school, a noticeable change from the usual light outfits.

Photo: Tuan Kiet

Children were bundled in coats, masks, and gloves before heading to school. Photo: Tuan Kiet

Low temperatures left motorbike taxi drivers curled up by the sidewalk. Photo: Tuan Kiet

People wore coats and scarves to keep warm on the streets. Photo: Tuan Kiet

A rare image in HCMC: commuters wearing thick scarves to fight off the cold.

Photo: Tuan Hung

Photo: Tuan Hung

Even older residents shared concerns about sudden joint pain triggered by the cold. Photo: Tuan Hung

"I had to rub medicated oil on myself to warm up enough to drive," said Minh Tam. Photo: Tuan Hung

Photo: Tuan Hung

According to meteorological experts, this unexpected cold spell was caused by a strong continental cold air mass. Typically, such cold air masses veer eastward over the sea and have little effect on southern Vietnam. However, this time, Typhoon Koto disrupted the pattern, forcing the cold air to plunge directly southward.

Despite reaching southern provinces, the cold front retained significant strength, leading to a sharp drop in temperatures. By 7:00 a.m., temperatures in HCMC remained around 20C. Other southern provinces, especially in the Southeast, also recorded unusually low readings.

In Phuoc Long (Dong Nai, formerly part of Binh Phuoc), the temperature fell to just 16.6C, while Ta Lai (Dong Nai) recorded 17.5C. In the Mekong Delta, the lowest readings ranged from 20.7C to 25C. Notably, stations in Can Long (Vinh Long, formerly Tra Vinh) and Cao Lanh (Dong Thap) each recorded 20.7C.

In HCMC, overnight and early morning temperatures ranged from 19.4C to 22.2C, with Tan Son Nhat Airport registering a low of 20C.

Le Dinh Quyet, Head of Forecasting at the Southern Hydrometeorological Center, explained that the phenomenon is linked to an intensified high-pressure cold air mass, redirected southward by Typhoon Koto. As a result, northern winds blew directly into southern Vietnam. Though the sky was clear and pleasant, the air remained dry and cool.

Throughout the day, the weather was mostly sunny with occasional light rain in the afternoon. Daytime and nighttime temperatures dropped slightly. The eastern region of the South in particular experienced a distinctly chilly sensation.

According to forecasts, the current cold spell in the South may persist until at least December 3. After that, the cold air mass is expected to weaken slightly, and temperatures will rise again, bringing back warmer sunshine. However, early mornings and late nights will likely remain cool in early December.

Meteorologists also anticipate a new cold front arriving in the North between December 4 and 5, which could again sweep south and cause further temperature drops across southern provinces.

Tuan Kiet - Tuan Hung
On November 28, the Economic Police Department of Da Nang announced it had indicted an additional 10 individuals across multiple provinces and cities, bringing the total number of suspects in the case to 33.

The newly indicted suspects include Le Van Ngoc Duy (Dak Lak), Phan Duc Hau (Hue), Ho Le Vu Hoai (Quang Ngai), Nguyen Truc Mai (Nghe An), Cao Ngoc Son and Vo Dai Luong (Khanh Hoa), Dinh Ngoc Long and Nguyen Minh Sang (Gia Lai), Chau The Anh, and Nguyen Van Tuan (Quang Tri).

Several suspects involved in the VND 67 trillion money laundering ring have been indicted. Photo: A.T

This move marks an expansion of an investigation that began in January 2025, targeting a large-scale money laundering operation closely linked to Cambodia-based cybercrime organizations.

Initially, the investigation revealed suspicious transactions totaling around 30 trillion VND (USD 1.2 billion). Under the direction of Major General Nguyen Huu Hop, Director of Da Nang Police, the case was expanded to uncover increasingly complex layers of fraud.

Following forensic audits, investigators found that the total amount laundered exceeded 67 trillion VND, alongside USD 43 million, EUR 1.5 million, and CAD 1 million.

During several coordinated raids, police froze over 1,000 bank accounts and seized approximately 100 billion VND (USD 4 million) in cash, 15 embossing and printing machines, 500 forged stamps and seal imitations, nearly 100 counterfeit or blank ID cards, and over 1,200 documents related to bogus company registrations.

Preliminary findings revealed that the suspects colluded with certain bank employees to open over 1,000 fake corporate accounts using forged documents. They also purchased around 10,000 personal bank accounts that were not registered to legitimate users.

This elaborate account system was then sold to criminal networks in Cambodia for use in fraudulent transactions and money laundering operations.

To date, police have identified dozens of victims across Vietnam who have had assets stolen through this scheme. In some cases, individuals lost as much as 12 billion VND (nearly USD 490,000).

The investigation is ongoing and expected to widen in scope.

Ha Nam
We will return home and help build better lives for our villages, said many of the young individuals honored at the 2024 Recognition Ceremony for Outstanding Ethnic Minority Students and Youth. These pledges are no longer just words - they are beginning to take shape. At the 2024 ceremony, 125 outstanding students and youth from various ethnic minority groups across Vietnam were celebrated, including 12 individuals from particularly disadvantaged backgrounds. Recognition as both pride and motivation At the 2024 Recognition Ceremony, 125 individuals were honored, including 12 from particularly disadvantaged ethnic groups.

One of the honorees, Mac Luong Ha Anh, an ethnic Thai, is now a freshman at the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam. She was among the 125 exemplary ethnic minority youth recognized in 2024.

Ha Anh recently participated in the Understanding Ho Chi Minh's Diplomacy in the Digital Age competition, organized by the academys Department of Political Theory. For the contest, she and her team chose to film at an interactive exhibition hosted by Nhan Dan newspaper, alongside visiting historic sites.

Just one year ago, during the 2024 recognition ceremony, Ha Anh - a student from the mountainous commune of Tuong Duong in Nghe An - was hesitant in front of crowds. Today, she exudes the confidence, poise, and maturity of a future diplomat.

That moment of being honored among peers from across the country was not only a source of pride - it became a daily motivation for me to fulfill the promise I made: to return home and help build a more prosperous and beautiful village, she shared.

Like Ha Anh, every one of the 125 honorees carried their own powerful stories of resilience, aspiration, and perseverance. The recognition ceremony instilled in them not only pride but also a profound sense of responsibility. These youth are continuing their journeys, showcasing the intelligence and determination of Vietnams ethnic minority generation in this new era.

Fueling the journey toward dreams

The ceremony empowers ethnic minority youth to pursue their dreams. Illustrative photo.
Regarding e-commerce, Hoang Anh proposed excluding logistics, payment systems, and small platforms from the laws scope, and only regulating large-scale platforms that manage consumer data.

He also suggested that sectors such as animal feed, aquaculture inputs, environmental treatment products, pesticides, and veterinary drugs should not be classified as conditional at the legal level. Instead, specialized laws and decrees should set the technical conditions, with post-inspection mechanisms and penalties for violations.

Lawmaker Pham Van Hoa (Dong Thap) also recommended a broader review to eliminate more business lines that require licenses - beyond the 25 currently listed in the draft.

He noted that some similar business sectors could be consolidated and managed by their respective ministries. However, he cautioned against removing accounting services from the list of conditional business lines without further consideration.

Shifting toward post-inspection, standards-based regulation

In response, Finance Minister Nguyen Van Thang said the Prime Minister had tasked his ministry with conducting a thorough review to maximize the reduction of conditional business lines.

The initial draft reported to the National Assembly Standing Committee proposed removing about 25 sectors from the list of conditional business lines - meaning they would no longer require business licenses. These included accounting services, rice exports, and temporary importre-export of frozen food.

Currently, Vietnamese law requires licensing for 234 business sectors. However, many of these can be regulated through output standards and technical specifications instead.

Following the review, the Ministry of Finance now proposes cutting at least 50 conditional sectors - double the number in the earlier draft. Thang called it a major effort and added that the Prime Minister has asked the Ministry of Finance to continue working with other ministries to expand the review and propose further reductions.

Once the law takes effect, the government will assign relevant ministries to amend business conditions, transitioning toward a post-inspection approach based on technical standards and regulations. This reform aims to ensure full and consistent protection of citizens' and businesses' right to free enterprise.

During the session, lawmakers also raised concerns about banning the trade of electronic cigarettes and heated tobacco products. In response, Thang said the draft now includes a ban on such products.

The government will also issue transitional regulations for investment projects related to the production of electronic cigarette equipment that were legally approved prior to the implementation of Resolution 173/2024.

As several factories were already operating before the resolution was passed, the minister said the transition clause is necessary. However, no new licenses will be issued after the resolution takes effect.

Thang added that the draft will include new bans on substances like nitrous oxide (NO) and other psychoactive agents. The Ministry of Finance will coordinate with the Ministry of Health to define these bans clearly while allowing for specific exemptions where justified.

Tran Thuong
Earlier that day, the Hanoi Party Committee held a conference to announce a decision from the Politburo regarding personnel appointments. According to the decision, the Politburo reassigned and appointed Vu Dai Thang, then Secretary of the Quang Ninh Party Committee, to join the Hanoi Party Executive Committee and Standing Committee, assuming the role of Deputy Secretary of the Hanoi Party Committee.

The current leadership structure of the Hanoi Peoples Committee now includes Chairman Vu Dai Thang and five vice chairpersons: Duong Duc Tuan, Nguyen Manh Quyen, Nguyen Xuan Luu, Vu Thu Ha, and Truong Viet Dung.

Thang, 50, hails from Hanoi. He holds a masters degree in International Relations from Waseda University (Japan), as well as bachelor's degrees in Foreign Trade Economics and Law. He is a former alternate member of the 12th Party Central Committee and a full member of the 13th Party Central Committee.

Thang previously served as Director of the Department for Economic Zone Management under the Ministry of Planning and Investment. From 2010 to 2015, he was Vice Chairman of the Ha Nam Provincial Peoples Committee. In March 2018, he was appointed Deputy Minister of Planning and Investment.

Between August 2020 and October 2024, Thang was the Secretary of the Quang Binh Party Committee, and was re-elected for a second term. In October 2024, the Politburo reassigned him to serve as Secretary of the Quang Ninh Party Committee for the 20202025 term.

Tin tuc va Dan toc (News and Ethnic Affairs)
According to the resolution:

Gasoline-powered motorbikes will be restricted by time or area within the low-emission zone.

Ride-hailing motorcycles will be entirely banned from the zone.

Cars failing Euro 4 emission standards will be progressively restricted and eventually banned from entering the area on specific roads or times as designated by the Hanoi People's Committee.

The first phase affects 9 wards within Ring Road 1 from July 2026, expanding to 14 wards within Ring Road 2 by January 2028, and eventually to 36 wards across Ring Roads 13 by 2030.

Electric transition roadmap and public feedback

To facilitate the transition:

All ride-hailing motorbikes must switch to electric by 2030.

From July 2026, new taxis must be electric or powered by green energy.

From 2035, broader traffic restrictions may apply based on evolving conditions.

The city plans to offer up to VND 5 million (~$200) in subsidies for residents switching to electric motorbikes.

Surveys show broad public support for the initiative, with many citing Hanois high pollution levels and dense traffic.

Rush hour fumes are unbearable. Prioritizing electric vehicles will reduce noise and pollution, said Hong Hanh, a parent who often books ride-hailing services.

Fine dust levels in Hanoi are always high. Cutting down on gas bikes will help air quality, added Minh Quan, an office worker in Ba Dinh district.

Many support the gradual approach that allows for adaptation without sudden disruptions.

Concerns from ride-hailing drivers and delivery workers

Despite general support, the policy has raised serious concerns among ride-hailing drivers, especially those heavily dependent on short trips within the city center.

If we cant enter the center, we lose most of our income. Electric bikes are still expensive, and we have nowhere to charge overnight in our rental homes, said Tran Duc Long, a ride-hailing driver.

Im still paying off a gas bike I just bought. Now theyre saying Ill have to replace it? And theres no clear support package yet, said Tran Van Son, a delivery driver working in Hanois Old Quarter.

Customers also worry about reduced availability of ride-hailing services, especially during peak hours or bad weather.

I use 35 rides daily. What if no electric drivers are nearby? Delivery and food orders will also cost more if drivers must detour around banned areas, said Thu Trang, a white-collar worker.

She and others call for a clear rollout plan, financial support for drivers, and increased charging infrastructure to prevent service disruptions.

Expert opinion: Transition must be well-planned

Prof. Dr. Tu Sy Sua, senior lecturer at the University of Transport and Communications, supports the initiative but emphasizes the need for thorough planning.

Tens of thousands will need new electric vehicles - this affects livelihoods, especially for low-income workers. Enforcement logistics, monitoring, and traffic management all need to be carefully mapped out, he cautioned.

Without clear preparation, the ban risks being seen as a top-down move that could backfire or strain public trust.

Hoang Hiep
HCM City (photo: Nguyen Hue)

Northern capital flows heading south

Toward the end of the year, the HCMC real estate market becomes more bustling, with the East as the main hotspot. According to DKRA Group, new housing supply in this area accounts for nearly 97 percent of total primary supply across the market, showing that capital and development strategies remain heavily concentrated there.

In the luxury apartment segment, Masterise Homes has just introduced the high-rise Masteri Park Place. The developer is now accepting reservations for Tower A after units in Tower B sold out earlier.

Eaton Park, a high-end condominium project on Mai Chi Tho Boulevard developed by Gamuda Land, has also launched multiple sales phases this year. The upcoming phase is already taking reservations at prices higher than previous releases.

In Nam Rach Chiec residential area, The Prive by Dat Xanh Group is another highlight in the high-end segment. With nearly 3,200 units, more than 1,000 were sold in the first sales phase in August, and the developer is now proceeding with phase 2. Its rapid absorption rate shows strong demand for high-end products.

In the mid-range segment, the market recorded new towers released at MT Eastmark City, invested by Dien Phuc Thanh, adding significant supply.

Speaking at the Riding the East Saigon wave  A golden opportunity for Hanoi investors workshop in Hanoi on November 16, Nguyen Quoc Anh, Deputy CEO of Batdongsan.com.vn, noted that the recent administrative merger has highlighted promising growth potential in the Southeast region.

The formation of the new HCMC (comprising HCMC, Ba Ria - Vung Tau, Binh Duong) and the new Dong Nai (comprising Dong Nai, Binh Phuoc) is not simply an expansion of administrative boundaries, but a consolidation of strengths to create a major economic zone. After the merger, the GRDP of HCMC reached more than VND2.7 quadrillion in 2024, leading the country, while Dong Nai ranked fourth with over VND609 trillion.

The merger of HCMC with Binh Duong and Ba Ria - Vung Tau has provided a strong boost for the entire Southern Key Economic Region. Numerous inter-regional infrastructure projects have accelerated to form a comprehensive network, laying a solid foundation for investment attraction and urban development.

Along with this, the presence of leading real estate corporations in this area is playing a market-leading role.

"The Eastern area is almost the only region with sufficient land fund to develop large-scale urban areas. This is also the reason why Hanoi investors are continuously increasing their interest. In the next 510 years, this area will be the focal point of the Southern market," Anh emphasized.

According to him, real estate in the East of HCMC is facing a new growth cycle as three core factors, including infrastructure, capital flow, and real demand, converge. The development model along the Dong Nai River is assessed as similar to the urban chain along the Red River, promising to create a complete urban  industrial  service belt in the near future.

Anh believes that in the short term, investors should prioritize areas where urban areas have been clearly formed, with can be rented, or meeting real living needs. In the long term, infrastructure progress and urbanization rate will be the decisive factors for the true value of the East area in the next development cycle.

Opportunities

According to Batdongsan, in the third quarter of 2025, the level of interest in apartments in HCMC from Northern customers increased by 28 percent compared to the same period last year.

This figure reflects a trend of capital shifting given the continuously escalating price level in the North. Many areas in Hanoi and its vicinity have established relatively high new price levels, causing the profit margin from rental exploitation to decline.

Rental prices have not increased proportionally to selling prices, reducing investment efficiency. This has prompted many investors to seek markets with better growth potential.

HCMC and its neighboring provinces are assessed to be in the phase of forming new growth drivers. A series of inter-regional infrastructure projects such as Ring Road 3, Ring Road 4, the expansion of the HCMC - Long Thanh - Dau Giay expressway, and the progress of Metro Line 1 have created a premise for stronger regional connectivity. As a result, housing demand in areas with complete infrastructure continues to be high.

Anh Phuong
At the event, Nguyen Quang Duong, Deputy Head of the Central Organization Commission, explained the reason behind Mr. Nguyen Duc Trungs departure from his position as Deputy Secretary of the Hanoi Party Committee.

According to the announcement, due to unforeseen and urgent health issues recently arising - along with Trungs personal request - the Politburo approved for him to step down from the Party Executive Committee, the Party Standing Committee, and the position of Deputy Secretary of the Hanoi Party Committee.

Trung has now been reassigned to serve as Deputy Head of the Central Policy and Strategy Committee.

Mr. Nguyen Duc Trung.

At the same time, the Politburo has issued decisions to transfer and appoint new personnel to assume the role of Deputy Secretary of the Hanoi Party Committee.

Previously, on November 10, the Politburo decided that Trung would step down from the Executive Committee, the Standing Committee, and the position of Secretary of the Nghe An Provincial Party Committee.

He was then transferred and appointed to join the Executive and Standing Committees of the Hanoi Party Committee, taking the role of Deputy Secretary for the 20252030 term.

On November 13, the 16th session of the Hanoi People's Council elected Trung as Chairman of the Hanoi People's Committee for the 20212026 term.

Trung was born on March 21, 1974, in Tinh Hai Commune, Tinh Gia District, Thanh Hoa Province. He holds a masters degree in economics.

He has previously held several key positions, including:

Director of the Department of Organization and Personnel

Director of the Department of Local and Regional Economy

Director of the Department of Infrastructure and Urban Development under the Ministry of Planning and Investment

From January 2019 to February 2020, he served as Deputy Minister of Planning and Investment.

From March 2020 to November 2024, he was the Secretary of the Party Committee and Chairman of the People's Committee of Nghe An Province.

In November 2024, he was elected as Secretary of the Nghe An Provincial Party Committee, and was re-elected in October 2025.
Between 2020 and 2024, thousands of customers were drawn in by flashy social media campaigns on Facebook and TikTok, costing up to 20 billion VND (approx. $800,000) per month, promoting Mailisas beauty clinics.

Behind these professionally crafted advertisements lay the scheme of transforming cheap, unregulated skincare products made in Guangzhou, China, into what was advertised as premium Asian cosmetics, operated by couple Phan Thi Mai and Hoang Kim Khanh.

Phan Thi Mai (left) and Hoang Kim Khanh (right). Photo: Ministry of Public Security

On November 21, the Department of Anti-Corruption, Economic Crimes, and Smuggling (C03, Ministry of Public Security) launched a criminal case for smuggling involving MK Skincare Co. and related entities. Eight individuals have been arrested and charged under Article 188 of the Penal Code.

Phan Thi Mai, born in 1974, came from a poor family and left school after seventh grade. She moved to Ho Chi Minh City and worked as a waitress and shoe seller. By late 1997, she opened a small hair salon, gradually expanding into skincare and beauty services.

Her first company, Mailisa Beauty Clinic Co., specialized in skincare and cosmetic procedures. It was during this phase that she met Hoang Kim Khanh, a newly graduated communications student aiming to build a career in media.

Combining Khanhs sharp media skills with Mais instinct for consumer psychology, the Mailisa brand rapidly expanded. It now operates 17 branches nationwide and claims to have sold over 8 million units of nearly 100 products under the Doctor Magic label.

Of particular note, just three key products - M01 (Pigment Removal Cream), M03 (Brightening Cream), and M23 (BB Nano Sunscreen) - accounted for over 3.2 million units sold, generating illicit profits worth trillions of VND.

These products were all manufactured in Guangzhou at costs ranging from 30,000 to 150,000 VND ($1.20 to $6.00) per item. The bulk of the investment was poured into premium packaging to create the illusion of luxury, misleading consumers into believing they were purchasing high-end international goods.

Mailisas 4,000m luxury mansion in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Phuoc Sang

Mai and Khanh orchestrated the transport of these products from China through Hong Kong, where two shell companies - jointly owned with Chinese partners - handled fake customs declarations for export to Vietnam.

Each shipment was labeled Made in Hong Kong, supported by forged export invoices and fake international payment documents. Once in Vietnam, the goods were imported through MK Skincare, where Khanh served as general director, giving the operation a legal appearance.

To distribute the products in the domestic market, the couple worked with Chinese contacts to acquire fake Free Sale Certificates from Hong Kong.

These were then used to file for Vietnamese cosmetic registration numbers through the Ministry of Healths online portal, submitting forged international-standard documentation, contracts, and fake invoices from satellite companies.

Investigators confiscated 3 billion VND ($120,000), $400,000 in cash, 300 SJC gold bars, and 100 land use rights certificates.

In a bid to mitigate consequences, Mai and Khanh voluntarily returned 300 billion VND (approx. $12 million), surrendered 12 luxury car registration documents, and turned over various valuable assets to aid the investigation.

Dinh Hieu
This years cold air surge is pushing unusually deep into southern Vietnam and growing stronger, bringing intense and dry cold conditions to the North starting mid-December. Meanwhile, weather experts say another tropical storm may still form before the year ends.

According to Hoang Phuc Lam, Deputy Director of the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, the agency had already forecast in early November that between mid-November and the end of December, one to two tropical storms could still emerge over the East Sea.

Storm No. 15 is one of them, and there may be one more storm, Lam said.

He noted that any late-season storms in late November and December are likely to impact the South Central and Southern regions. Therefore, after Storm No. 15, the next potential storm would likely focus on these same areas.

Cold air to dominate late 2025 and early 2026

The strongest cold air is expected between December 2025 and January 2026. Illustration: Hoang Minh

Lam emphasized that the more significant weather trend during this period is the dominance of cold air. Forecasts show that the intensity of cold air will increase through December 2025 and January 2026 - typically the peak period of the cold season.

This years defining feature is that cold air is pushing deeply into the south and growing stronger, causing severe and extreme cold in the North starting mid-December. In the mountains, frost and ice may occur, Lam explained.

In northern Vietnam, the most common weather pattern over these two months will be dry cold - with cold nights and sunny days. Though there may be occasional rain, the dominant trend is dry, biting cold.

Additionally, Lam pointed out that from late February to March 2026, there is a likelihood of light drizzle and mist in the North.

At the same time, he warned of the possibility of unseasonal rainfall in the Central Highlands and Southern regions between January and March. In the Central region, rain is expected mainly in late November and early December due to cold air, though its intensity is not expected to be strong.

Bao Anh
I urgently call on the National Assembly to add laughing gas (recreational NO) and other new psychoactive substances to Article 6, he said.

Nhan pointed out a disturbing contradiction: while health authorities issue warnings, police crack down, and media reports highlight the dangers of laughing gas, it remains legally unregulated - absent from the list of banned investment activities.

There is no national data on laughing gas use not because it is harmless, but because it operates in a completely uncontrolled market, he said. Its a market of five nos: no permits, no quality standards, no toxicity testing, no traceability, and no mandatory health reporting. A market with no legal oversight.

Nhan emphasized that the issue isnt a lack of regulatory capacity - its that this market cannot be managed without a legal framework. The only viable solution, he stressed, is to shut it down at Article 6, or risk the legal blind spot growing into a future health crisis.

He cited a study by Bach Mai Hospital showing that nitrous oxide poisoning almost invariably causes spinal cord damage, with rates ranging from 60% to 100%. Up to 82% of users experienced limb paralysis, and hormone levels surged to five times the norm - indicative of acute myelin sheath destruction. Many patients were permanently disabled after just weeks or months of use, and all showed lasting damage post-treatment.

NO harms the body through two toxic mechanisms. It depletes vitamin B12, damaging the nerve sheath and causing numbness and paralysis, sometimes irreversible. At the same time, it activates the brains pleasure center, leading to rapid dependence and escalating use.

These two mechanisms combined mean young users are both neurologically impaired and addicted - making recovery nearly impossible, Nhan said. A substance that simultaneously destroys the nervous system and causes strong addiction like NO has no justification to remain legal - not even for a day.

He warned that the primary users are students and young people - those most vulnerable to harm. Laws are meant to protect the weak, not pave the way for products that exploit their ignorance, he said.

No need to wait for 1,000 hospitalizations to ban it

Nhan argued that no legal system can keep up with the rapidly changing nature of new psychoactive substances. The answer, he said, is to preemptively ban them under Article 6 - not to continually react to criminal trends. The mindset of no data, no ban is inappropriate for risk governance. No country waits until there are 1,000 hospitalizations to issue a ban, he said.

He noted that many countries have already acted decisively on NO: the UK has banned it outright; the Netherlands prohibits its sale and possession; Thailand, Japan, and South Korea enforce strict controls; and the United States bans its sale for recreational use.

No country has ever faced legal challenges for protecting the health of its young people, Nhan added.

He urged the National Assembly to amend Article 6 to include a full ban on laughing gas (NO for recreational use) and new psychoactive substances. He also proposed that the government develop clear criteria for identifying such substances, and conduct a comprehensive review of industrial and food-grade gases to prevent commercial abuse targeting youth.

Supporting the call to ban e-cigarettes and heated tobacco, lawmaker Nguyen Anh Tri (Hanoi) proposed that Article 6 explicitly state: The production, trade, import, possession, transportation, and use of electronic cigarettes, heated tobacco, and any gases or addictive substances harmful to human health are prohibited.

He explained that the sale and use of these products has become seriously concerning, while the recreational abuse of nitrous oxide is exploding in Vietnam.

The battle to eliminate these seemingly convenient, flavored, and harm-reducing products will be long and difficult, Tri warned.

Thanh Hue
Vietnam has called on the World Bank (WB) to provide preferential green credit to support mechanisation in agriculture and help cooperatives access funding to produce organic fertiliser from rice straw, thereby advancing the cultivation of high-quality, low-emission rice.



The proposal was put forward by Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Tran Thanh Nam at a working session in Can Tho on November 27 with Carlos Felipe Jaramillo, WB Vice President for East Asia and the Pacific. The discussion centred on the sustainable development project for one million hectares of high-quality, low-emission rice in the Mekong Delta.



Nam noted that after nearly two years of implementation, the programme had surpassed expectations, particularly in shifting farmers production methods and mindset. The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment has created a measurement, reporting, and verification (MRV) protocol for cutting greenhouse gases, which now serves as the legal foundation for use at the provincial level.



At present, almost 400,000 hectares of rice are cultivated under sustainable practices, including 20,000 hectares set to apply MRV procedures during the 202526 winterspring crop.

Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Tran Thanh Nam (fourth, left) holds a working session with Carlos Felipe Jaramillo, WB Vice President for East Asia and the Pacific in Can Tho on November 27 (Photo: VNA)

The Deputy Minister attributed progress to support from international partners, including the WB, the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and the Transformative Carbon Asset Facility (TCAF).



TCAF has committed a non-refundable loan of 20 million USD to Vietnam for low-emission rice cultivation, but has warned that disbursement may be halted if implementation falls behind schedule.



To keep the programme on track, Nam proposed that the WB work with TCAF to maintain the pledged loan, stressing that the Vietnamese government has set 202728 as the earliest period for allowing the sale of carbon credits.



He highlighted that several pilot models have already produced measurable emission reductions and could form the basis for future carbon credit payments.



The official also asked the WB to expedite the disbursement of its planned two-year non-refundable support package for training and pilot deployment under the programme.



Responding to the recommendations, Mariam J. Sherman, WB Country Director for Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia, affirmed that the WB would facilitate discussions with TCAF regarding the 20 million USD commitment. She also encouraged Vietnam to accelerate programme progress and reaffirmed the WBs readiness to continue accompanying the Government.



Both sides agreed to conduct a mid-term review and explore options to expand the one-million-hectare project.



Earlier the same day, Jaramillo and the WB delegation visited New Green Farm Cooperative in Thoi Long ward, Can Tho, to observe the cultivation model first-hand. The cooperative has completed four production cycles across 148 hectares, achieving yields of 68 tonnes per hectare. Post-harvest straw is collected for mushroom production and later processed into organic fertiliser for rice, vegetables and orchards, helping reduce straw burning, protect the environment and improve local incomes.



According to cooperative director Dong Van Canh, using straw-based fertiliser has reduced chemical nitrogen demand by 40%, lowered production costs by around 1.7 million VND (65 USD) and increased profits by roughly 3.5 million VND per hectare.



In 2024, the World Bank committed a 350 million USD loan to the Vietnamese Government to implement the one-million-hectare project which associated with green growth in the Mekong Delta./.VNA
According to the decision by the Standing Committee of the Hanoi Party Committee, Tuan will officially be transferred to the capital and appointed to the dual role of Deputy Head of Propaganda and Mass Mobilization, and future Director of the capital's media agency.

Nguyen Van Phong, Standing Deputy Secretary of the Hanoi Party Committee, emphasized that Tuan brings a wealth of experience in leadership and administration across various sectors, including journalism and the National Assembly.

Phong noted that Hanoi holds high expectations for the establishment of a centralized media institution - combining newspaper, radio, and television operations - which is envisioned as a crucial instrument for the citys Party organization and government in public communication, consensus building, and inspiring civic ambition.

The citys leadership expressed its hope that Tuan would swiftly adapt to his new role and collaborate with the Propaganda and Mass Mobilization Department to develop and present a proposal for the establishment of the new media agency to the Standing Committee of the Party Committee.

In his remarks at the conference, Tuan pledged to devote his full efforts to contributing to the departments mission. He also expressed commitment to enhancing media content quality, amplifying positive values, and staying attuned to the public's concerns and aspirations, thereby reinforcing social trust and unity.

Born in 1975, Tuan has had a long career in journalism. He previously worked at the Voice of Vietnam and the National Assembly Television Channel. He has served as Deputy Chief of the National Assembly Office since September 2020.

Tran Thuong
Reflecting on the award, Thai Phien shared that his initial thoughts were not of personal joy, but of the sweat, tears, and even the grimaces of pain endured by the women featured in the book.

Cover of the photo book Sunlight behind the curtain

Behind the 133 photographs in the collection lies a grueling journey of training, sleepless aching nights, and above all, the courage to overcome hesitation and vulnerability. These women went beyond simply modeling - they surrendered themselves to yoga and art in their purest forms.

They are not just models, Thai Phien emphasized. They are elite yoga warriors who have transcended their bodily limits to create poses that are not only beautiful and unique but also physically dangerous in front of the camera. They are extraordinary yoga ambassadors. I am deeply grateful to the 15 female yoga instructors who bravely took part. Their physical grace, spiritual strength, and sacrifices are the boundless inspiration behind Sunlight behind the curtain.

The photographer revealed that the concept of yoga art nude began forming during the lockdown days in Saigon at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic - a time when society became more conscious of mental health and physical well-being. As a yoga enthusiast, Thai Phien was captivated by the elegant strength of the female form expressed through yoga postures.

But capturing that beauty on camera was anything but easy.

There have been countless brilliant photographers in the world who have captured yoga. Creating something new was incredibly difficult, he said. Throughout the process, I focused on reimagining basic asanas and presenting the subtle beauty of yoga from my own perspective. Each photo was crafted to convey a unique story or emotion.

This project, he continued, was my way of preserving peaceful moments of yoga practitioners during those dark, uncertain days. Sunlight filtering through the curtains illuminated quiet corners of a room, symbolizing hope and belief in a brighter future. This isnt just a photography book - its a message about optimism and the extraordinary strength of the human spirit in adversity.
HA NOI  Viet Nam is well placed to seize opportunities from the burgeoning growth of the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) sector, with the domestic market projected to reach US$23 billion by 2030, targeting $10 billion in revenue and one million jobs by 2035, according to experts.

According to Markets & Markets and PwC, the global aerospace industry, especially the UAV sector, is booming with a compound annual growth rate of over 15 per cent. The global UAV market is expected to hit $128 billion in 2030 and rise to $700 billion by 2035.

The UAV usage is expanding across Viet Nam. In agriculture, the Mekong Delta already operates over 3,000 drones across 1.5 million hectares. The agricultural UAV and robotics market is predicted to reach $363.7 million by 2030, up 4.76 per cent annually. A single drone can spray or monitor 6070 hectares per day, far exceeding the manual labour capacity of one hectare. In the electricity sector, one hour of UAV inspection can replace three days of manual work.

As Viet Nams e-commerce market is forecast to reach $63 billion by 2030, UAVs are emerging as highly effective last-mile delivery tools. Pilot programmes in Thai Nguyen, Tuyen Quang, and Lang Son provinces have proven their ability to reduce delivery times and overcome difficult terrain.

Viettel has long invested in UAV R&D and deployment. During severe flooding in OctoberNovember 2025, the group used drones equipped with mobile 4G/5G transmitters operating at a height of 50100 metres, providing a 6-kilometre coverage radius and up to 24 hours of service via hybrid cable power, to support disaster response efforts. Viettel has also designed and manufactured multiple UAV models comparable to international products.

Lieut. Gen. Tao uc Thang, chairman and general director of Viettel, said the group is developing dual-use UAVs to build a low-altitude economic ecosystem serving both economic and defence needs.

CT Group is also expanding its UAV footprint. In August 2025, it signed a contract to export 5,000 heavy-load UAVs (60300kg) to the Republic of Korea. The company operates five UAV factories and is preparing to build a space centre in HCM City for 10,000 engineers. A new facility in Tay Ninh province is also in the pipeline.

The firms Chairman Tran Kim Chung said CT Group expects to complete the 5,000-unit order in 2026 and is negotiating ten additional international contracts. The group has mastered six core technologies  electronic circuit design and manufacturing, composite airframe moulding, flight control systems, telecommunications, stabilised gimbals, and battery solutions  achieving 8590 per cent self-sufficiency across 16 UAV product lines.

It also designs chips, a capability rare among UAV manufacturers, he added.

Clearing bottlenecks for Vietnamese UAVs to advance globally

Despite its potential, the UAV industry still lacks a complete legal framework.

Tran Anh Tuan, permanent vice chairman and CEO of the Vietnam Aerospace and UAV Technology Network, stressed that UAVs serve not only defence but also agriculture, logistics, energy management, security, and rescue operations. Domestic demand is rising rapidly.

He recommended that the Government increase R&D investment, provide financial and credit support for start-ups, place orders for Make in Vietnam UAVs, complete regulations, and establish UAV sandbox zones for testing and standards for design, production, maintenance, and flight licensing.

FPT Groups Chief Technology Officer Vu Anh Tu highlighted the need for multi-stakeholder cooperation. The State should lead institutional and infrastructure development, enterprises invest in technology, institutes and universities supply knowledge and human resources, and users serve as the meter of success.

Chung proposed that the Ministry of Science and Technology coordinate with the Ministry of National Defence and the Ministry of Public Security to form an inter-agency task force to resolve legal bottlenecks. CT Group also suggested SIM-based UAV identification for airspace management and registration fees.

The company expects greater Government support for UAV production infrastructure and access to science-and-technology funding to help bring Vietnamese UAVs to international markets.  VNS
HA NOI  President and Chief Executive Officer of Japans Mitsui & Co Ltd Hori Kenichi on Thursday reaffirmed Mitsuis commitment to long-term cooperation and investment in Viet Nam when he met with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh in Ha Noi.

At the meeting, Hori extended his condolences to the Government and people of Viet Nam over the heavy losses caused by recent natural disasters. He spoke highly of the Vietnamese Governments leadership and direction, especially efforts to improve the business and investment climate.

He noted that Viet Nam is developing rapidly and strongly with long-term strategic vision. He reaffirmed Mitsuis wish to continue contributing to Viet Nams development goals, particularly in the energy sector.

He reported to PM Chinh on recent progress in the Block B gas project chain, praising the capacity of the Petrovietnam Technical Services Corporation (PTSC). Mitsui and its Vietnamese partners are working to accelerate all components of the project, he affirmed.

He also outlined Mitsuis plans to expand investment in energy and carbon-reduction projects and to promote the export of high-value Vietnamese products, particularly in agriculture, aquaculture (notably shrimp), wood pellets, food processing and circular economy initiatives.

The group also hopes to enhance technology transfer, consulting cooperation, training and the development of scientific and technological human resources.

PM Chinh stressed that the Viet NamJapan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership is enjoying strong, extensive and substantive growth, underpinned by high political trust. Japan remains one of Viet Nams leading economic partners, the largest provider of ODA and among the top partners in trade, investment, labour and tourism. He highlighted the recent success of the Viet NamJapan Local Cooperation Forum as evidence of the deepening ties.

The PM expressed appreciation for contributions by Japanese enterprises, including Mitsui, to Viet Nams socio-economic development through technology transfer, export expansion, job creation and tax payments.

He welcomed Mitsuis long-term strategic investment in Viet Nam, particularly its strong commitment to the Block B gas-to-power project, which has moved forward rapidly.

PM Chinh said Viet Nam aims for double-digit annual growth in the coming years, which will require substantial energy resources. He called on Mitsui, with its long-term vision, to continue advancing its cooperation with Vietnamese partners, accelerate progress on the Block B project, expand operations and improve collaboration efficiency in the energy sector.

He also encouraged Mitsui to strengthen cooperation in fisheries, trade and export; establish research and development centres in aquaculture and energy; promote technology transfer; support human-resource development; and expand links with institutions including Ha Long University.

The PM welcomed Mitsuis intention to further promote the export of high-value, processed Vietnamese goods, which aligns with Viet Nams goal of enhancing growth quality and increasing technological content in export structures.

He reaffirmed the Governments commitment to protecting the legitimate rights and interests of investors, improving the investment climate, reforming administrative procedures, advancing the national single-window investment mechanism, upgrading strategic infrastructure and developing a high-quality workforce.

Viet Nam will continue creating favourable conditions for foreign investors, including Japanese enterprises, to operate effectively on the basis of harmonised benefits and shared risks.

The PM said ministries and sectors will continue to accompany Mitsui, address challenges promptly, facilitate project implementation, expand supply chains and promote trade cooperation.  VNA/VNS
CAN THO  Viet Nam has called on the World Bank (WB) to provide preferential green credit to support mechanisation in agriculture and help cooperatives access funding to produce organic fertiliser from rice straw, thereby advancing the cultivation of high-quality, low-emission rice.

The proposal was put forward by Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Tran Thanh Nam at a working session in Can Tho on November 27 with Carlos Felipe Jaramillo, WB Vice President for East Asia and the Pacific. The discussion centred on the sustainable development project for one million hectares of high-quality, low-emission rice in the Mekong Delta.

Nam noted that after nearly two years of implementation, the programme had surpassed expectations, particularly in shifting farmers production methods and mindset. The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment has created a measurement, reporting, and verification (MRV) protocol for cutting greenhouse gases, which now serves as the legal foundation for use at the provincial level.

At present, almost 400,000 hectares of rice are cultivated under sustainable practices, including 20,000 hectares set to apply MRV procedures during the 202526 winterspring crop.

The Deputy Minister attributed progress to support from international partners, including the WB, the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and the Transformative Carbon Asset Facility (TCAF).

TCAF has committed a non-refundable loan of US$20 million to Viet Nam for low-emission rice cultivation, but has warned that disbursement may be halted if implementation falls behind schedule.

To keep the programme on track, Nam proposed that the WB work with TCAF to maintain the pledged loan, stressing that the Vietnamese Government has set 202728 as the earliest period for allowing the sale of carbon credits.

He highlighted that several pilot models have already produced measurable emission reductions and could form the basis for future carbon credit payments.

The official also asked the WB to expedite the disbursement of its planned two-year non-refundable support package for training and pilot deployment under the programme.

Responding to the recommendations, Mariam J. Sherman, WB Country Director for Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia, affirmed that the WB would facilitate discussions with TCAF regarding the $20 million commitment. She also encouraged Viet Nam to accelerate programme progress and reaffirmed the WBs readiness to continue accompanying the Government.

Both sides agreed to conduct a mid-term review and explore options to expand the one-million-hectare project.

Earlier the same day, Jaramillo and the WB delegation visited New Green Farm Cooperative in Thoi Long ward, Can Tho, to observe the cultivation model first-hand. The cooperative has completed four production cycles across 148 hectares, achieving yields of 68 tonnes per hectare. Post-harvest straw is collected for mushroom production and later processed into organic fertiliser for rice, vegetables and orchards, helping reduce straw burning, protect the environment and improve local incomes.

According to cooperative director ong Van Canh, using straw-based fertiliser has reduced chemical nitrogen demand by 40 per cent, lowered production costs by around VN1.7 million ($65) and increased profits by roughly VN3.5 million per hectare.

In 2024, the World Bank committed a $350 million loan to the Vietnamese Government to implement the one-million-hectare project which associated with green growth in the Mekong Delta.  VNA/VNS
HA NOI  Viet Nam's pursuit of a dual digital-green transition is creating new momentum for enterprise development, according to discussions at the "Sustainable Development 2025" conference held on November 27.

Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister of Finance Nguyen uc Tam said that digital transformation and green finance have become essential pillars as the country works to reshape its growth model and enhance long-term competitiveness.

He noted that amid global economic fluctuations and rising pressures to reduce emissions, advancing both digital transformation and green transition is an inevitable trend that allows Viet Nam to seize fresh opportunities.

According to the Ministry of Finance (MoF), recent policy directions have consistently placed businesses and citizens at the centre of reform efforts, particularly in areas related to innovation, science and technology, and the development of a knowledge-based economy.

At the conference, the MoF highlighted progress in modernising public financial management, standardising datasets and building an integrated national financial database.

The ministry reiterated that data is becoming a strategic resource, making the development of digital infrastructure a top priority for ensuring transparency, efficiency and adaptive capacity across the financial system.

The ministry stressed that the green transition has now been formalised through the issuance of Viet Nam's "Green Classification List". This framework identifies 45 project categories across seven sectors, ranging from renewable energy and green transport to sustainable agriculture and environmental remediation, that qualify for green financing.

By establishing clear criteria, the list offers enterprises greater clarity and supports the mobilisation of capital toward environmentally responsible projects.

The MoF reported strong market reactions to these policy signals, with green bond issuance rising more than 60 per cent since the start of the year.

Officials described this growth as evidence that investors and businesses are increasingly recognising the value of sustainable development models and low-carbon investment pathways.

Deputy Minister Tam affirmed that promoting digital and green finance is a key part of the ministry's commitment to acting as a pioneer in economic innovation and national development.

He added that the Government will continue refining legal frameworks and creating conditions for enterprises to participate more actively in digital transformation and the green economy.  BIZHUB/VNS
HA NOI  Viet Nams electronics exports have hit a new record this year, driven by surging shipments of computers and components, according to preliminary data from the Department of Customs under the Ministry of Finance.

As of mid-November, Viet Nam had shipped almost US$143 billion worth of electronics. Exports of computers and components jumped 48 per cent to more than $92 billion, while phones and parts reached $50.8 billion, up 5 per cent from last year.

Customs officials said the sector added roughly $32 billion in new export value compared with the same period in 2024. Electronics continued to lead the countrys export growth, helping push Viet Nams total export revenue past $410 billion. Shipments in the first ten and a half months have already surpassed the electronics export total for the whole of 2024 by $16.5 billion.

Viet Nams electronics industry has consolidated its position as a pillar of national economic growth, contributing more than 30 per cent of industrial exports. Last year, the sector earned $126.5 billion, up $17 billion from 2023.

o Thi Thuy Huong, a member of the executive committee of the Vietnam Electronic Industries Association (VEIA), said the country had transformed from a contract-manufacturing base into a smart-production hub attracting hundreds of billions of US dollars in FDI from major global corporations such as Samsung, Intel and Foxconn.

Factories worth from tens of millions to several billions of dollars, built by leading US, Korean and other technology firms, have helped Viet Nam maintain electronics exports above $100 billion a year, she noted.

The industry now employs more than 1.5 million skilled workers, supports technology transfer and is lifting the localisation rate of components to 4050 per cent in several segments.

Preliminary customs data also showed that Viet Nams total merchandise trade in the first ten and a half months reached more than $801.2 billion, up 17.2 per cent, equivalent to an increase of $117.4 billion year-on-year.

Export value reached $410.3 billion, up 16.1 per cent, and import value totalled nearly $391 billion, an 18.3 per cent increase year-on-year.

Firms with foreign direct investment (FDI) accounted for $579.1 billion, rising 25 per cent, or $116.11 billion in absolute terms.

On November 19, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh issued Directive No. 221/C-TTg calling for stronger efforts to maintain macroeconomic stability and accelerate export growth. The Government noted that ministries, agencies and localities had implemented multiple measures throughout 2025 to stabilise the economy, diversify markets and support exporters.

However, with global conditions still uncertain, the directive calls on ministries, provinces and State-owned groups to act quickly and consistently to meet the 2025 growth target of more than 8 per cent while keeping the economy stable.  VNS
HA NOI  Viet Nam is set to have 33 airports with a total capacity of 297 million passengers by 2030, according to a newly adjusted master plan from the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV).

The CAAVs plan, submitted recently to the Ministry of Construction for review, outlines adjustments to the national airport and seaport system for the 2021-30 period, with a vision to 2050. It estimates that nearly VN500 trillion (US$19 billion) will be needed to develop the countrys airport system by 2030, sourced from the State budget, non-budgetary capital and other legal sources.

Under the new plan, Mang en and Van Phong airports will be added to the national system.

Previously, under a planning system approved by the Prime Minister, Van Phong Bay in Khanh Hoa Province was designated as a service-logistics centre, while Mang en Town in Quang Ngai Province was identified as a national tourist area, with infrastructure including an airport to connect the Central Highlands and Central Coast.

The planning for Khanh Hoa Province allocates land for Van Phong Airport, while Quang Ngai Province and the general Mang en tourist area planning identify Mang en Airport as a key infrastructure project.

The CAAV said the inclusion of Mang en and Van Phong airports in the master plan is necessary to align with national, regional and provincial development goals, attract private investment, support tourism and logistics, strengthen regional connectivity, and bolster national defence and security in the south central and Central Highlands regions.

Mang en Airport is estimated to cost nearly VN5 trillion and cover about 350 hectares, while Van Phong Airport will require more than VN9.2 trillion and occupy over 497 hectares.  BIZHUB/VNS
HA NOI  Two subsidiaries of Vietnam National Coal and Mineral Industries Holding Corporation Limited (Vinacomin), Vinacomin Coal and Mineral ImportExport Joint Stock Company and VinacominNorthern Coal Trading Joint Stock Company, signed a coal supply contract with Laos Xekong Power Plant Limited, a subsidiary of Phonesack Group, at Vinacomin headquarters on Thursday.

The signing comes as Laos prepares to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the National Day of the Lao Peoples Democratic Republic, highlighting the significance of the traditional, close and trustworthy cooperative relationship between the two countries.

The agreement is the result of thorough discussions and negotiations between the parties and opens a new phase of cooperation in coal trade between Vinacomin and energy companies in Laos.

It affirms Vinacomins role in expanding markets and ensuring stability and efficiency for the group's production and business activities.

Previously, the Minister of Industry and Trade of Viet Nam and the Minister of Energy and Mines of Laos signed a cooperation agreement between the two governments on the trade of coal and electricity in Vientiane, Laos, on November 9.

This document is strategic and lays the foundation for long-term cooperation between the two countries in the energy and mineral sectors.  VNS
HCM CITY  Viet Nam has secured the leading position in Southeast Asia for AI user readiness and trust, according to the 10th edition of the e-Conomy SEA 2025 report by Google, Temasek and Bain & Company.

This is demonstrated by three metrics in which Viet Nam ranks highest in the region: 81 per cent of users engage with AI tools and features daily, 83 per cent are participating in AI learning and upskilling, and critically, 96 per cent express a willingness to share data with AI agents.

This strong user engagement is reflected commercially by an increase of 78 per cent revenue growth in apps featuring AI over the one-year period concluding in the first half of 2025.

User motivations for adopting AI are primarily centered on saving time on research and comparisons (44 per cent), leveraging 24/7 customer support (35 per cent), and obtaining savings through better deals (30 per cent).

Viet Nam currently has more than 40 active AI start-ups and attracted US$123 million in private AI funding over the past year, accounting for 5 per cent of the regions total AI investments. A further 79 per cent of investors expect funding to increase in Viet Nam, particularly in software, services, AI and deep tech.

Marc Woo, managing director of Google Vietnam, said: With 81 per cent of users interacting with AI tools daily, it underscores a highly dynamic and adaptive digital landscape in Viet Nam. Driven by the digital economy's positive growth and the regions highest AI adoption rate, Viet Nam has established itself as one of the most pivotal markets in Southeast Asias digital evolution, contributing to enhanced productivity and value creation across various sectors.

The report forecasts Viet Nams digital economy to reach $39 billion in gross merchandise value (GMV) in 2025, a 17 per cent year-on-year increase, making the country the second fastest growing digital economy in the region.

All key digital economy sectors are sustaining double-digit growth, and e-commerce continues to contribute the largest share to Viet Nam's GMV, accounting for two-thirds of the digital economy, and projected to grow 17 per cent this year to $25 billion.

Online media is experiencing a marked acceleration compared with previous years, with growth projected at more than 16 per cent to $6 billion. The sector is comprised of advertising, gaming, video-on-demand and music-on-demand. Gaming is a particularly strong driver, with three Vietnamese game developers among the global top 15 by downloads.

Online travel is expected to grow by 16 per cent to $4 billion as the tourism sector continues to recover, aided by favourable visa policies and rising demand from both Asian and European markets.

The report also highlighted that the digital financial services sector in Viet Nam is a key area of expansion, driven by the Government's strategic push for cashless payments. Digital payments are projected to reach $178 billion this year, underscoring widespread digital adoption.

Erik Pot, partner at Bain & Company, said: With a digital economy on track to reach $39 billion by 2025, Viet Nam is showing how trust and technology can drive inclusive growth at scale. The real opportunity now lies in how businesses harness AI as a catalyst for impact while balancing Viet Nams structural realities, he added.  VNS
HCM CITY  The need for a unified, transparent, and internationally compatible green finance taxonomy has become more urgent than ever as Viet Nam pursues its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, positioning green capital flows as a key driver of sustainable economic growth, according to a seminar in HCM City on Friday.

Entitled Developing and Implementing Green Finance Taxonomy: International Experiences and Applications in Viet Nam, the seminar, which was jointly organised by the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry HCM City (VCCI-HCM) and Singapore Management University (SMU), brought together 80 companies, regulators, financial institutions, businesses, and international experts.

Providing the latest insights and knowledge on green finance taxonomy, the seminar acted as a crucial platform to bridge international practices with Viet Nams local context, aiming to support the establishment of a national green taxonomy aligned with global standards.

In the context of green transformation, emission reduction, and restructuring of growth models, the development of the green taxonomy system is not just a technical requirement but a fundamental framework, highlighted Nguyen oan Thong, head of membership department - training and communications cum head of CEO programme VCCI-HCM.

The green finance taxonomy system is envisioned to help Viet Nam attract green and sustainable capital inflows, set common standards for businesses, financial institutions, and regulatory bodies, enhance transparency in supply chains and value chains, and reduce compliance risks when aligning with international standards, Thong said.

Viet Nam has taken a significant step forward with the issuance of Decision 21/2025/Q-TTg, establishing the national green taxonomy and outlining a framework for verification, environmental criteria, and the eligibility for green credit and bonds.

Moreover, the implementation raises essential questions concerning data availability, verification capacity, institutional readiness, and alignment with international systems  integrating strategy, finance, policy, and practice.

During the seminar, experts presented research on global trends in green taxonomies.

Professor Theodor Cojoianu, associate professor of Sustainable Finance at SMU and a key figure in sustainable finance, highlighted that globally, over 50 taxonomy systems have been developed or are in progress.

This represents extraordinary momentum. But it also brings significant complexity. Financial flows increasingly operate across borders. Investors need clarity. Regulators require coherence. And businesses need predictable frameworks to plan, report, and invest. Viet Nams new taxonomy is therefore entering a global conversation  and helping shape it, he said.

Dr. Scott Fritzen  scholar of public policy and leadership, Vice President (Impact & Value), and Professor of Practice at Singapore Management University  underscored the importance of regional collaboration and the strategic role of green taxonomies in sustainable development.

A well-designed national green taxonomy not only enhances financial market transparency but also creates a shared language that enables more effective collaboration among countries, financial institutions, and businesses. At the regional level, alignment and interoperability among taxonomies will be key to mobilising sustainable capital flows, especially as economies confront common climate challenges, he shared.

The involvement of universities, research institutes, and international organisations is anticipated to lay a robust knowledge foundation to assist Viet Nam in developing a practical, context-appropriate green taxonomy aligned with global standards.  VNS
HCM CITY  Viet Nam is emerging as a competitive destination in the global semiconductor supply chain, with experts emphasising the need for stronger links between the State, academia and businesses to build a high-quality workforce and accelerate technology development.

These priorities were highlighted at an international seminar on semiconductor training, technology and applications held in HCM City on Thursday (November 27).

Co-organised by the HCM City Semiconductor Industry Association, the Saigon Hi-Tech Park (SHTP) Management Board and the citys Investment and Trade Promotion Centre, the event was part of the HCM City Autumn Economic Forum 2025.

It provided a platform to update global training trends, new technological breakthroughs and international cooperation opportunities to support the sustainable growth of Viet Nams semiconductor sector.

Le Quoc Cuong, deputy head of the SHTP Management Board, said the industry can only move forward through coordinated action rather than isolated efforts.

He noted that the three houses+ model under the Politburos Resolution 57  connecting the Government, scientists, businesses and international investors  is expected to create collective strength, establish SHTP as a leading high-tech centre and enable Viet Nam to integrate more deeply into the global value chain.

Through this model, SHTP is developing a comprehensive semiconductor ecosystem spanning training, research and development, technology transfer, manufacturing, innovation and global supply chain connectivity, he said.

In 2024, the Government issued the national semiconductor industry development strategy through 2030 with a vision to 2050, aiming to make Viet Nam a leading regional talent hub while gradually building capacity in chip design, manufacturing, packaging and testing.

By 2030, Viet Nam targets training at least 50,000 engineers and specialists for the industry. New incentives also support enterprises investing in semiconductor and AI R&D centres, including subsidies covering up to 50 per cent of initial investment costs for key technology projects.

Experts underscored the pivotal role of semiconductors in powering the global digital economy from AI, cloud computing and IoT to automotive manufacturing, clean energy and defence technologies.

Major global corporations such as Synopsys, Marvell, Infineon and Amkor have already invested or formed partnerships in Viet Nam, expanding the countrys role in the global ecosystem.

Ho Thi Quyen, deputy director of the citys Investment and Trade Promotion Centre, said the agency will continue coordinating with municipal departments to promote investment and deepen training cooperation to attract more semiconductor investors.

The seminar explored three main themes: developing high-quality human resources; updating technologies and applications in materials, automation, chip design and integrated circuits; and advancing international cooperation and technology transfer to build a complete semiconductor ecosystem.

Speakers also shared practical solutions, including smart-city systems by VNTT under Becamex Group, plasma surface treatment technologies from APP Viet Nam, low-code platforms for digital transformation, hermetic sealing for semiconductor packaging, and new training programmes in microchips and integrated circuits.

Participants agreed that Viet Nam must reinforce the linkage between training, research and industry to join the global value chain more effectively.

Pham Tan Thi from the HCM City University of Technology said the country currently has about 5,600 micro-electronics engineers, while the industry will need 5001,000 new engineers annually over the coming years.

However, the number of experts capable of designing a complete chip remains limited, and the conversion of university research into commercial products is still weak, he said.

Training programmes remain largely experimental, he added, lacking lecturers with hands-on industry experience and sufficient infrastructure.

To build a high-quality workforce, Viet Nam needs more design and testing companies, along with expanded university and postgraduate programmes, to enable Vietnamese engineers to participate deeply in the semiconductor supply chain and eventually design and commercialise home-grown chips, he said.

The seminar helped lay the groundwork for a cross-sector, cross-border collaboration network to support talent development and innovation, strengthening Viet Nams position on the global semiconductor map.  VNS
HA NOI  Viet Nam has emerged as the second largest market in Asia for Norwegian King Crab, underscoring the countrys fast-growing appetite for high-value, traceable seafood.

According to the Norwegian Seafood Council (NSC), Viet Nam now accounts for 27 per cent of all Norwegian King Crab exports to Asia, with an estimated volume of 110 metric tonnes in 2024. This places the country ahead of long-established markets such as South Korea and Japan, second only to China.

The growth is driven by a maturing HORECA (hotels, restaurants and cafes or catering) sector where chefs and procurement teams are increasingly prioritising consistent quality and trusted origin. Norwegian supply currently accounts for around 41 per cent of the live king crab market in Viet Nam.

A seminar aimed at identifying the steps needed to unlock the next phase of growth for Norwegian King Crab in Viet Nam was held in HCM City by NSC, bringing together seafood exporters, importers and hospitality professionals.

At the event, industry specialists shared insights on the products market potential in Viet Nam and outlined practical actions to strengthen market access. Discussions centred on resolving logistical challenges in importing live products, improving distribution channels in the expanding food service sector and addressing mislabelling through better education and awareness.

Hospitality guests were also treated to a live chef demonstration and a Nordic inspired tasting menu designed to showcase the versatility of Norwegian King Crab as a centrepiece for high-end dining in HORECA. With its natural sweetness, firm texture and cold clear water origin, Norwegian King Crab has long been regarded as an ideal choice for premium restaurants and luxury celebrations.

Norwegian King Crab stands out as a premium delicacy that suits the spirit of year end celebrations in Viet Nam, said Director for NSC Southeast Asia, Ashild Nakken. Its harvest season coincides with the time when families, companies and hospitality venues look for exceptional ingredients to honour important relationships, whether through shared meals or through thoughtful high-end gifting.

Looking ahead, the director highlighted that Viet Nams position as the second largest market for Norwegian King Crab in Asia makes it a priority partner for NSC.

She noted that the organisation will continue to support the market through deeper insights, trade facilitation and consumer education efforts to ensure Vietnamese consumers have access to the best and safest seafood available.

NSC works with the Norwegian fisheries and aquaculture industries to develop markets for Norwegian seafood through market access, consumer intelligence and marketing promotion. The NSC is headquartered in Troms, Norway and maintains a strong presence in Southeast Asia to support the growing demand for sustainable seafood.  VNS
Cape Town, South Africa (PANA)  There is growing outrage after US President Donald Trump announced that South Africa would be barred from the 2026 G20 Summit and face the immediate suspension of all US financial support
HA NOI  Selected documents, records and photographs from archival agencies in Viet Nam and China are on display in Ha Noi, honouring the traditional relationship between the two countries.

The exhibit is organised by the Viet Nam State Records and Archives Department, the China National Archives Administration, news agencies from both countries and other relevant bodies.

Each document tells a story through historical records, reviving memories of the past while also strengthening the social and emotional bonds between both peoples.

These materials serve as authentic evidence highlighting key milestones, cooperative journeys and major achievements in bilateral relations since the two countries officially established diplomatic ties.

At the exhibition opening ceremony on November 26, Vietnamese Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Cao Huy said: "The event carries profound political, diplomatic and professional significance, taking place as the two countries celebrate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties and continue strengthening their Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership."

Held by the archives department of Viet Nam in cooperation with the National Archives Administration of China, the exhibition honours the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Viet Nam and China, which were established on January 18, 1950.

These documents are evidence of history, according to Deputy Head of the Chinese National Archives Administration Lin Zhenyi.

"The exhibition highlights the friendship between the two countries and reflects periods of exchanges and mutual support across various fields since the establishment of diplomatic ties," Lin said.

"Viewing these materials evokes historical memories, reminding people of the proud years of solidarity between the two nations. They also reinforce the founding spirit of bilateral relations and inspire both sides to continue moving forward together as they reach new milestones."

The exhibition features three parts: Laying the Foundation of Friendship, Cooperation and Development, and Looking Toward the Future.

Documents, photos and materials on display are the result of dedicated, meticulous and collaborative efforts by experts from both countries, according to ang Thanh Tung, director of the archives department of Viet Nam.

Each item was carefully selected and thoroughly cross-checked to ensure authenticity, historical value and the effective delivery of its message to viewers.

This reflects not only professional rigour, but also the sincere cooperation, responsibility and mutual respect shared by the two archival agencies throughout the preparation of the exhibition.  VNS
LANG SON  Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee and Chairman of the Peoples Committee of Lang Son Province Nguyen Canh Toan held local talks with Wei Tao, Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee and Chairman of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region (China) on Thursday to tighten cross-border economic and security ties.

Toan hailed the Lang SonGuangxi relationship as a standout success within the broader Viet NamChina Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership and the orientation toward building a Viet NamChina Community with a shared future, citing robust people-to-people links across culture, sports, education, health care, border management and crime prevention, plus fresh momentum in digital transformation, smart border gates, logistics, artificial intelligence, and the digital economy.

Cross-border trade via border gates, dedicated routes, and customs checkpoints between Lang Son and Guangxi remain stable and smooth, bolstered by upgraded and expanded specialised cargo routes and the ongoing pilot smart border gate project at the Huu NghiYouyi Guan international border gate pair, while the restored Ha NoiNanning passenger train has opened new channels for people-to-people exchanges, tourism, and trade.

He proposed both sides thoroughly realise high-level common perceptions and agreements reached at the 2025 early spring meeting and the 16th Joint Working Committees meeting while gearing up for 2026 early spring meeting and the 17th meeting in Nanning. He pushed for rapid rollout of new cargo procedures at Huu NghiYouyi Guan and Chi MaAi Dian gates, plus formal launch of the Tan ThanhPo Chai freight route to maximise throughput to domestic and third-country markets.

The Vietnamese host asked Guangxi to extend operating hours and upgrade roads at the Coc Nam  Nong Yao crossing to match rising trade volumes, and called for regular information exchange and close coordination in immigration management and the fight against cross-border crime to ensure a peaceful, friendly, and stable border that supports socio-economic development.

Toan invited Guangxis capable, high-tech, green-tech firms to invest in Lang Sons renewable energy, agro-forestry processing, supporting industries, electronic components, logistics, and warehouse centres linked to border gate systems.

Lang Son commits to all possible support for Guangxi investors and stands ready to share its experience in administrative reform and digital governance, he said, expecting to learn from Guangxis experience in smart urban development, traffic management, environment protection, and quality tourism.

To further deepen friendly cooperative ties, Wei called on Lang Son to accelerate the construction of its smart border gates. Smart border gate components on the Guangxi side are on track for pilot operation by year-end and ready to connect with Lang Sons system. He urged Lang Son to direct relevant agencies to coordinate swiftly so that the two systems can operate synchronously and efficiently. He also stressed the need to boost transport and infrastructure connectivity, especially the railway link between Viet Nam and China through the region.

The guest expressed strong interest in expanding cross-border tourism cooperation, pointing out that Viet Nam has become a top draw for Chinese travelers while Guangxi hosted roughly 150,000 Vietnamese visitors in the first 10 months of 2025, with ample untapped potential still ahead.  VNA/VNS
VIENTIANE  A ceremony marking 20 years of cooperation between Viet Nam's Central Military Hospital 108 and Laoss Central Hospital 103 was held in Vientiane on November 27.

Addressing the ceremony, Major General Prof. Dr. Le Huu Song, Director of the Central Military Hospital 108, emphasised that both hospitals are leading centres for training, scientific research and medical treatment.

Since their comprehensive cooperation programme was launched in 2005, bilateral ties have been continuously strengthened with practical outcomes, he noted, adding that annual cooperation plans have been implemented seriously, supporting capacity-building, scientific research and the transfer of advanced medical techniques.

Over the past two decades, many Vietnamese experts have undertaken long-term missions at the Central Hospital 103 to provide training and technical assistance, contributing to the successful treatment of complex cases. The Central Military Hospital 108 has also trained 206 Lao doctors, six nurses and two engineers  a clear demonstration of substantive, long-standing cooperation.

In recent years, Viet Nam's Ministry of National Defence has helped the Central Hospital 103 deploy a telemedicine system directly linked to the Central Military Hospital 108, enabling joint consultations on complicated cases and the digitalisation of all bilingual medical records. The Central Military Hospital 108 has treated more than 2,600 Lao military personnel and civilians, with a recovery rate of over 95 per cent.

Song stressed that these achievements reflect not only professional cooperation but also the special solidarity, trust and close bonds between the militaries and people of the two countries.

For his part, Sen. Lieut. Gen. Vongsone Inpanphim, Lao Deputy Minister of National Defence and Director of the General Department of Politics, commended the 20-year cooperation between the two hospitals. He affirmed that the partnership has strengthened professional capacity, credibility and public trust, making an important contribution to the great friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between Laos and Viet Nam.

In the context of evolving regional and global uncertainties, he said, the comprehensive cooperation between the two militaries, including the two hospitals, should be further deepened. He called for continued mutual support, helping build stronger military medical forces capable of responding to all contingencies.

On this occasion, Vongsone presented second- and third-class Labour Orders, second- and third-class, and Friendship Orders and Medals of the Lao State and Government to collectives and individuals of the Central Military Hospital 108 in recognition of their outstanding contributions to medical support for Laos.

Concluding the ceremony, the two hospitals signed a memorandum of understanding for the 20252030 period, reaffirming their commitment to advancing the Viet NamLaos, LaosViet Nam special relationship and working towards new achievements in military medicine.  VNA/VNS
HA NOI  Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh will co-chair the 48th meeting of the Viet Nam - Laos Inter-Governmental Committee, scheduled for December 2-3 in Vientiane at the invitation of his Lao counterpart Sonexay Siphandone.

The previous meeting was also co-chaired by both PMs in Vientiane in January.  VNA/VNS
HA NOI  A friendship exchange and dialogue between young officers of the Viet Nam Peoples Army (VPA) and Cubas Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces (MINFAR) was held in Ha Noi on Friday.

The Cuban delegation is paying an official visit to Viet Nam from November 26 to December 8.

The event was co-chaired by Lieutenant Colonel Nguyen Quang Huy, head of the Youth Department under the VPA's General Department of Politics, and Colonel Fernando Quivillet Loyola, head of the Political Department of the MINFAs Eastern Command.

Huy noted that the exchange takes place as the two countries are preparing for the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2025. He stressed that these activities play an important role in educating younger generations of both armies about the traditional friendship and special solidarity between Viet Nam and Cuba, while deepening bilateral defence cooperation.

He highlighted the sincere and enduring affection that young Vietnamese officers have for the Cuban people, adding that many participants once studied or worked in Cuba and achieved outstanding results. Recalling the 65-year history of the special relationship, he affirmed that the younger generations of both nations, particularly of their militaries, have the responsibility to preserve and strengthen this unique bond for the benefit of both peoples.

Given the complex global and regional landscape, Huy underlined the need for both armies to intensify political and ideological education and translate major orientations agreed upon by high-level leaders of the two Parties, States and militaries into concrete cooperation.

He proposed that Viet Nam and Cuba continue to expand young officer exchanges to create more opportunities for sharing experience and fostering mutual trust. He also suggested closer coordination in communication, ideological work and theoretical research to promote deeper understanding of the importance of Viet Nam-Cuba solidarity.

Further cooperation should also focus on enhancing professional capacity in areas such as science and technology research, innovation, digital transformation, military medicine, cybersecurity and information technology, supported by joint workshops and exchanges, he added.

Colonel Fernando Quivillet Loyola said the visit and dialogue offer a unique opportunity for young officers of both countries to meet - an event that transcended borders, language, and generations. He affirmed that the relationship between the two countries is built not only on tradition but also on a shared vision for the future, with younger generations committed to nurturing the special Viet NamCuba solidarity.

He expressed his hope that the event will inspire young officers to strengthen cooperation and continue learning from one another.  VNA/VNS
PHNOM PENH  Deputy Prime Minister Bui Thanh Son and Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sar Sokha co-chaired the 13th Conference on Cooperation and Development between Vietnamese and Cambodian border provinces in Phnom Penh on November 27-28.

The event drew the presence of leaders from nine ministries and sectors, 10 cities and provinces, and three military regions.

Both sides expressed delight at the strong progress in Viet Nam  Cambodia ties in recent years. Political and diplomatic ties have been continously reinforced, while economic, trade, and investment relations have grown positively, particularly among the provinces along the shared border.

Two-way trade has averaged US$10 billion annually over the past four years and reached $9.5 billion in the first ten months of 2025, up more than 13.5 per cent from a year earlier. Cross-border collaboration in education, health care, labour, transportation and livelihood support has been ramped up, delivering tangible benefits to residents.

Sar Sokha asked delegates to thoroughly grasp and closely work on the orientations and concrete measures adopted at the conference. These efforts, he stressed, will enhance the quality and effectiveness of cooperation among the border provinces, safeguard political security and social order, improve local livelihoods, and build a borderline of peace, friendship, cooperation and development.

Concluding the conference, the two sides issued a joint press communique affirming their candid exchange of views and shared determination to preserve and advance relations and cooperation between the border provinces of Viet Nam and Cambodia, in line with the motto of friendly neighbourliness, traditional friendship, comprehensive cooperation, long-term sustainability. They also reiterated their commitment to the continued building and maintenance of the Viet Nam  Cambodia border as a boundary of peace, friendship, cooperation, and sustainable development.

The conference commended the achievements made in implementing the outcomes of the 12th Conference on Cooperation and Development between Vietnamese and Cambodian border provinces, held in Viet Nams Tay Ninh Province from April 23 to 25, 2023.

Both sides noted the positive relations and effective cooperation between the administrations and functional forces of the countries' border provinces in recent years, which have helped safeguard security, public order, and stability along the shared border. These efforts have also supported socio-economic development and contributed to improved living conditions for border residents.

The conference underscored the need to continue strengthening cooperation across a wide range of key sectors, including national defence, security, public order, and social safety; cross-border trade; investment and border gate management; cross-border transport, infrastructure development and connectivity; land border demarcation and marker planting; agriculture, health care, energy, environment, and water resources; tourism, information, law, justice, and banking; local-level administrative management; and cultural exchanges and people-to-people ties.

Delegates agreed to encourage the border provinces' administrations to continue meeting at least once a year to review the progress and results of cooperation activities, address new challenges, and outline future directions, with a view to further enhancing cooperation and promoting development in the border localities.

The two sides also agreed to convene the 14th conference in Viet Nam in 2026. The specific time and venue will be arranged through the diplomatic channel.  VNA/VNS
HA NOI  Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Le Thi Thu Hang has authored an article on the overview and development prospects of the Viet Nam-European Union (EU) relations on the occasion of the 35th anniversary of diplomatic ties (November 28).

Hang wrote that ties that began in 1990 have matured into one of the EUs deepest engagements with any ASEAN nation. Viet Nam now operates more formal cooperation frameworks with the EU than any other ASEAN member, underpinned by the 2012 Partnership and Cooperation Agreement, the landmark 2019 EU-Viet Nam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), and a string of deals covering national defence  security, investment, and agro-forestry-fisheries.

Political and diplomatic exchanges have intensified in recent years, marked by frequent high-level delegation exchanges and close coordination at global and regional forums. Amid a rapidly changing global landscape, both sides continue to share common stance on respecting international law, safeguarding maritime security and safety, and upholding multilateralism. Their mutual liaison within the United Nations, ASEAN-EU framework, strategic dialogues, security-development cooperation, and parliamentary exchanges has built a network of mutual trust, contributing to the shared responsibility for peace, stability, and development in the Indo-Pacific region.

Trade and investment collaboration has been a standout success. Five years after EVFTA entered force, bilateral trade surged more than ten per cent year-on-year to US$68.4 billion in 2024 and rose another 8.4 per cent to $54.6 billion in the first nine months of 2025. The EU ranks as Viet Nams fourth largest trade partner and sixth biggest investor, while Viet Nam has overtaken all other ASEAN nations as the EUs top trade partner in the region. The EU is also Viet Nams third largest export market, with Vietnamese coffee, cashews, fishery products, electronics, and garments gaining strong consumer traction, the Deputy FM noted.

European companies, some present since Viet Nams early economic opening, continue to expand. Thousands of EU-backed projects are running nationwide, drawn by political stability, an improving business climate, a skilled workforce, a strategic location, and the countrys growing reputation as a magnet for green and high-tech capital.

On the development front, she added, the EU remains a leading donor, channeling funds into judicial reform, education, forestry, environmental protection, and climate resilience. The EU-supported programmes helped Viet Nam become a model of realising the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and have since driven progress on the Sustainable Development Goals, transforming remote and mountainous communities. Initiatives like the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP), climate finance packages, and circular economy projects are cementing the EUs role as a trusted partner in Viet Nams net-zero ambitions.

National defence-security ties are also deepening. The 2019 Framework Participation Agreement (FPA), which enables Vietnamese involvement in EU crisis-management operations, and the defencesecurity dialogue mechanism affirm both sides' commitment to contributing more to common efforts in keeping global peace and security. The two partners have also worked closely in addressing non-traditional security challenges, including search and rescue, the combat against transnational crime, cybercrime and human trafficking, and counterterrorism, with encouraging results.

Bilateral cooperation in other fields, including education-training, science-technology, innovation, and culture, has also been steadily strengthened and expanded. Through programmes such as Erasmus+, Horizon Europe, Team Europe and various research and education initiatives, the two sides have regularly exchanged students and lecturers, conducted academic exchanges and implemented joint research projects. In addition, cooperation in other areas such as justice, agriculture, forestry and sustainable fisheries has continued to advance, with enhanced dialogue aimed at removing obstacles and facilitating bilateral engagement. In an increasingly volatile world, Viet Nam and the EU share many commonalities  enduring values, a commitment to multilateralism, the pursuit of peace and the prevention of armed conflict and localised hostilities, in order to unlock broader developmental advantages.

Their shared vision for a peaceful, secure, safe and prosperous Indo-Pacific region, together with common values regarding respect for international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), as well as support for free trade and sustainable development, will provide renewed momentum for Viet Nam-EU cooperation at a deeper strategic level. This is particularly true in areas such as strengthening political trust, exchanging high-level delegations, boosting collaboration in maritime security and cyber security, UN peacekeeping operations, and coordination within international and regional mechanisms including the UN, the ASEAN-EU strategic partnership framework and the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), Hang continued.

Against the backdrop of current global trends, Viet Nam-EU cooperation faces a wide horizon of opportunities in circular economy development, renewable energy, semiconductors, satellite technology and digital transformation.

The EU is pushing ahead with efforts to diversify its supply chains and markets, while Viet Nam, with its strategic location, young workforce and increasingly favourable business environment, is well-positioned to become a prime destination for EU enterprises. Once fully ratified, the EU-Viet Nam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA) will help attract high-quality EU investment into sectors where the bloc holds strong advantages and Viet Nam has significant demand, such as renewable energy, transport infrastructure, smart urban development, the circular economy, biotechnology, health care and pharmaceuticals.

Green transition and sustainable development  strengths of the EU  are expected to become prominent pillars of future cooperation, as the bloc continues to support Viet Nam in its energy transition and its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. In addition, both sides possess substantial potential for collaboration in emerging industries such as quantum technology, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, technology transfer, satellite systems and cloud computing.

In terms of cooperation in education, culture, the arts and people-to-people exchanges, Viet Nam will remain a favoured destination for EU travellers thanks to the Vietnamese Governments facilitative visa policies, while the EU will continue to serve as a hub of culture and education for Vietnamese students seeking international experience, according to the Deputy FM.  VNA/VNS
HA NOI  Numerous individuals and initiatives at the recent National Patriotic Emulation Congress of the Viet Nam Red Cross Society have been praised for acts of compassion and humanitarian service that embody the spirit 'for everyone, at everywhere in the new era.'

Among those honoured, Pham Viet Long, Phung Thi Hien and Tran Huynh Hoai Phong each shared different stories, yet all reflect a shared commitment to spreading empathy and the humanitarian strength of Viet Nam.

Pham Viet Long, head of the Front Work Committee of Group 5, Phu Xuan Ward, Hue City, was highlighted as a typical exemplary figure.

Having worked in grassroots humanitarian efforts for many years, Long is known for his initiative, responsibility and dedication to supporting people in difficult circumstances.

Born into a poor family, his childhood was marked by hardship and deprivation. Those challenging years instilled in him compassion, deep understanding and empathy for the less fortunate.

"Having experienced hardship, I understand the feelings of those in need. Helping someone overcome adversity feels like sharing what I once lacked," Long said.

He has directly advised and organised many campaigns to aid poor households and those facing especially difficult circumstances. Whether providing emergency assistance during natural disasters, funeral support for the poor, or calling for Tet (Lunar New Year holidays) gifts, he consistently leads efforts, ensuring help reaches those who need it most.

Between 2021 and 2025, Long and the Thuan Loc Ward Red Cross team collected over VN700 million (US$26,500) and thousands of gifts and essential items, distributing them directly to people in need.

This year, he plans to continue the 'Compassionate Tet' model, presenting 200 rice portions to poor households.

Beyond relief programmes, Long actively encourages youth to participate in voluntary blood donation and support vulnerable groups. His persistent contributions have been recognised multiple times by Hue City and the local Red Cross Society.

Despite many years dedicated to humanitarian work, Long remains simple, sincere and guided by a 'work from the heart' ethos. For him, helping anyone overcome difficulties is his greatest happiness. This sense of simple joy continues to motivate him to dedicate himself daily, spreading love and helping build a united and compassionate community.

Compassionate porridge pots

For over five years, Phung Thi Hien, leader of the Compassionate Porridge Pots group in Cao Bang Province, has been maintaining hot porridge pots alongside volunteers, sending thousands of servings to poor patients in the area.

Since launching her charitable activities in 2020, she has been the initiator and organiser of the model. She coordinates 30 volunteers to cook and distribute free porridge at the provincial general hospital and district health centres once or twice a week.

Hien also directly appeals for funding and ingredients from philanthropists, businesses and individuals both within and outside the province.

Thanks to a rigorous approach and the groups persistence, the activity has been continuously maintained, delivering 200300 servings per session, equivalent to around 14,000 servings annually.

To date, more than 40,000 bowls of porridge have been sent to poor patients, helping to ease some of their daily living concerns during treatment.

On average each year, the group collects more than VN400 million ($15,100) in cash and materials to sustain the initiative.

In addition to running the porridge kitchen, Hien actively participates in provincial Red Cross Society activities, such as Tet for the poor and Agent Orange victims, Humanitarian Month, Humanitarian Market, free-of-charge stalls and numerous other relief missions.

The Compassionate Porridge Pots model assigns clear duties, keeps full records and rotates participation to ensure sustainability. This scientific and dedicated approach has made the model a highlight of the local humanitarian campaign.

Not only does it provide a warm meal, but the model also builds a bridge between those who want to help and poor patients, strengthening community trust in charitable activities.

From its initial base in Cao Bang City, the initiative has expanded to Trung Khanh, Quang Hoa and Ha Quang, attracting more members, students and union participants.

At the congress, Hien said many families in her hometown still face difficulties, and she hopes the model can expand further to support more patients.

She also plans to implement the 'Com co thit' (Meals with meat) model for highland students weekly, ensuring they receive full meals and can attend school with confidence.

Rescue missions

Among the inspiring stories at the Viet Nam Red Cross Patriotic Emulation Congress, Tran Huynh Hoai Phong, captain of the Search, Rescue and Humanitarian Aid Team of Vinh Long Province, was highlighted by many delegates as a model of perseverance and community spirit.

The provincial rescue team was established in 2021 amid complicated natural disasters and epidemics, with urgent rescue needs rising, limited resources and a lack of equipment.

Phong and his team had to self-manage, building the team while seeking support from sponsors to acquire essential rescue equipment.

The team has since grown to 45 members, including 25 regular on-duty personnel, and is equipped with two ambulances, four rescue boats and numerous specialised medical devices, most of which were provided by businesses and philanthropists.

Over the past five years, the team has participated in rescue and first-aid operations for more than 1,160 cases, including traffic accidents, drownings, fires and landslides.

They have helped locate and return 33 missing people to their families, raised funds for funerals for 51 disadvantaged cases, and assisted 50 poor patients in receiving treatment. Additionally, the team has distributed over 3,500 gifts and helped construct two houses and two rural bridges.

A highlight of the teams work includes implementing the Humanitarian Life Buoys model at bridges and the Humanitarian Oxygen Machine model for poor patients receiving treatment at home.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the team was the provinces key humanitarian force. Phong and his volunteers collected over 80 tonnes of vegetables, 10,000 medical masks, 3,500 gifts and organised the Mobile Humanitarian Market model to support locked-down areas.

From 2020 to 2025, the team delivered more than 100 tonnes of relief goods and over VN400 million to 10 provinces in the northern and central regions affected by natural disasters, with the total value of their activities reaching about VN6 billion ($227,900).

Beyond emergency rescue, the team also participates in other humanitarian programmes such as Compassionate Tet, Warm Clothes for Children and the Mid-Autumn Festival for Children, supporting thousands of children in the Central Highlands and other disadvantaged areas. These initiatives help the team maintain a sustained spirit of compassion rather than focusing solely on emergency response.

Last year, the team won second prize nationwide at the sixth Red Cross Youth-Volunteer Camp for disaster prevention and response, recognising their collective effort and motivating them to continue expanding their work.

As an honoured delegate, Phong said: "Through many trips, each time saving a person or timely giving a gift, I feel this work cannot stop. Although I have not done anything great, I try to appear when people need me most. I always keep in mind 'as long as I have strength, I will keep going,' together with others to do the necessary work and always be present in difficult places, saving many lives, helping thousands of families overcome hardships."  VNS
HA NOI  The Government has issued a resolution allowing eligible Vietnamese citizens to enter casinos at several casino business projects.

The resolution permits eligible Vietnamese citizens to enter the casino at the Phu Quoc casino project in An Giang Province from November 26.

It also pilots allowing eligible Vietnamese citizens to enter the casino at the Ho Tram casino project in HCM City for five years from November 26 and at the Van on project in Quang Ninh Province for five years from the date a certificate of eligibility for casino business operations is issued.

Under the resolution, the management of eligible Vietnamese citizens entering casinos, as well as the business and supervision of casino activities at the above-mentioned projects, must comply with Government Decree No. 03/2017/N-CP on casino business operations or any amended, supplemented or replaced documents.

At the end of the pilot period, the Ho Tram and Van on casino projects must stop allowing eligible Vietnamese citizens to enter casinos until a competent authority issues conclusions in line with the law on casino business operations.

The resolution takes effect on November 26.

Casino project owners are responsible for organising business operations and managing eligible Vietnamese citizens entering casinos strictly and lawfully, in accordance with regulations on casino business operations.

In 2016, the Politburo permitted a pilot scheme allowing Vietnamese citizens to enter casinos in Phu Quoc and Van on for three years.

However, at that time, only the Phu Quoc Casino was operating, beginning in January 2019. Under Decree No. 03/2017/N-CP, the pilot was to run until January 2022.

In 2022, the Ministry of Finance proposed that the Government submit to the Politburo a request to extend the pilot period by two more years at Phu Quoc Casino, until the end of 2024.

The ministry explained that the COVID-19 pandemic had severely affected casino business performance, meaning the short initial pilot period did not produce the desired results.

In May 2024, the Politburo agreed to extend the pilot scheme allowing Vietnamese citizens to enter casinos at the Phu Quoc project until the end of 2024.

For the Van on project, the pilot period was set at three years from the date the project begins casino business operations. To promptly formalise this extension, the Government issued Decree No. 145/2024/N-CP amending Decree No. 03/2017/N-CP on the pilot duration permitting Vietnamese citizens to enter casino business locations.

Accordingly, for the first casino enterprise permitted to pilot welcoming Vietnamese citizens to enter casinos, the pilot duration ran until December 31, 2024.

For other casino enterprises, the pilot duration is three years from the date they receive a certificate of eligibility for casino business operations.

Decree No. 145/2024/N-CP stipulates that once the pilot period ends, enterprises must stop allowing Vietnamese citizens to enter casinos until the Government issues a decree on either terminating or continuing to permit Vietnamese citizens to enter casinos.  VNS
HA NOI  Many manufacturing enterprises in industrial zones (IZs) have been speeding up recruitment of workers to complete year-end orders. But recruitment is not easy, even though businesses have continuously attended job fairs, posted job advertisements and offered many incentives to employees.

Hoang Thi Chin, recruitment staff at Pentax Ricoh Imaging Company in Ha Nois Sai ong B IZ, said that her company needed to recruit about 200 workers and technicians for electronic assembly chains.

"The increase in orders at the end of the year means we need to recruit unskilled and technical workers between 18 and 35 years old. Income depends on the position, with workers earning an average of VN7 to 10 million (US$265-380) per month, while technical workers are paid based on experience and skills," Chin said.

"In addition to participating in mobile job fairs, we also posted on social networks and job groups. Besides salaries, bonuses and free meals, the company also applied a separate bonus policy for new employees, skilled workers and employees with outstanding performance."

Due to competition with other companies in industrial zones, some companies have accepted reducing recruitment criteria and lowering input requirements to secure workers.

Nguyen Van Anh, a human resources staff member at Viet Chef Company in Lai Xa IZ, said: "As a business producing food seasoning, the year-end months are the peak of orders.

Currently, the company needs to fulfill positions for food industry specialists, accountants and purchasing specialists, but the most difficult are still more than 20 positions for workers and technicians.

The company offers a salary ranging from VN7 million per month for new workers with no experience, to VN12 million for technical workers with intermediate or higher degrees.

"It seems easy to recruit, but in reality, it is very difficult," she said.

At this moment, recruitment demand is increasing, so we have had to increase direct recruitment. Through participating in a number of job fairs of the Ha Noi Employment Service Centre, I found that although there were many applications for accounting and purchasing positions, unskilled workers are scarce. We accepted posting on paid job sites but still could not recruit enough."

Therefore, we had to employ workers aged over 40 with good health and high adaptability to the job.

Recruitment information posted on the Ha Noi Job Exchange shows that job opportunities are concentrated in the young labour group, with those aged 18-25 and 26-35 accounting for nearly 75 per cent of total recruitment demand.

This shows that the labour market still prioritises young people with high working capacity and adaptability.

According to recruitment companies, year-end months are when employees are least likely to change jobs because they are expecting year-end bonuses.

Explaining the labour shortage in the year-end months, Vu Quang Thanh, deputy director of the Ha Noi Job Service Centre, said that unskilled labourers now had many job options, both part-time and full-time.

Although businesses offered attractive salaries and benefits, young labourers tended to look for jobs in offices with a modern and stable environment, said Thanh.

Unskilled labour is really in demand at this time. Many companies were forced to switch to recruiting workers over 40 years old to ensure production at the end of the year when orders increase."

Enhancement of supply-demand connection

Enterprises are continuing to ramp up production and business activities to meet orders for the New Year and Lunar New Year (Tet) 2026, according to Thanh. Among them, the trade and services sector is forecast to see the strongest increase in labour demand, around 4-5 per cent, particularly in retail, logistics and marketing.

The construction sector is also expected to grow by around 4 per cent as many public investment projects enter the year-end disbursement acceleration phase.

Meanwhile, manufacturing and processing industries are projected to maintain stable growth of 3-4 per cent, focusing on consumer goods production.

Nguyen Tay Nam, deputy director of the Ha Noi Department of Home Affairs, said that the department launched the Ha Noi Job Portal, an important tool helping enterprises, workers and management agencies enhance the application of information technology and artificial intelligence in operations, especially in online labour supply-demand matching.

In the context of an increasingly vibrant year-end labour market, enterprises are working both to recruit sufficient staff and retain their current workforce.

The issue of a shortage of unskilled labour is therefore not merely a temporary problem during the peak season, but a long-term challenge for businesses in building a stable, attractive and humane working environment.

A representative of Manpower Viet Nam said that the expansion of production and the implementation of new projects made the need to recruit skilled workers more urgent than ever.

To ease difficulties, Manpower recommended that enterprises review their recruitment criteria, choose appropriate candidate-reach channels for each industry group and adjust wage and benefit policies to increase competitiveness in attracting labour.  VNS
A Palestinian-American teenager who was detained in an Israeli prison has finally been freed after nine months of imprisonment.

The teenager was identified as 16-year-old Mohammed Ibrahim, who was given back his freedom on Thursday following a months-long pressure campaign from United States lawmakers and several civil rights groups.

Teenager Freed From Israeli Prison

Mohammed was 15 years old in February when he was arrested and taken from his family home in the town of al-Mazraa ash-Sharqiya, near Ramallah. In a statement, the teenage boy's uncle, Zeyad Kadur, said that words could not describe the immense relief they have as a family right now.

The young boy was detained over allegations that he threw rocks at Israeli settlers, which he denied. Mohammed's father, Zaher Ibrahim, and other relatives said that the teenager was blindfolded and beaten during the February raid of their home.

Additionally, Israeli authorities did not allow the boy to contact his family while he was in prison, nor did they give him any visitation rights. The only updates that Mohammed's family got were through U.S. officials, who were granted access to the teenager, according to Aljazeera.

Throughout the time that Mohammed was imprisoned, his family pleaded with the administration of United States President Donald Trump to push for his release. They at least wanted the government to ensure that the teenager had access to sufficient food and healthcare.

Kadur claimed that Israeli soldiers had no right to take the teenage boy from them in the first place. He added that throughout his imprisonment, his family, particularly his parents, were living a "horrific and endless nightmare."

Speaking Up for Mohammed Ibrahim

Immediately after his release, Mohammed's family said the boy was taken to a hospital for intravenous therapy and blood work. They said he was severely underweight, pale, and was suffering from scabies that he contracted during his imprisonment, The Guardian reported.

The young boy's case first gained attention after Sayfollah Musallet, a 20-year-old American-Palestinian, was allegedly beaten to death by Israeli settlers in mid-July. That was when reporters heard news of Mohammed being detained since February.

Kadur expressed gratitude to more than a hundred different organizations, local Florida community members, volunteers, and members of Congress for continuously speaking up for Mohammed and demanding his freedom.

He added that they were also grateful to the countless other people who continued to tell the young boy's story. Kadur thanked the public for bringing his nephew's story to the American people and the world, as per Common Dreams.
In recent days, individuals and organisations nationwide have been working together to support flood-affected communities in the central region through various donation drives.

Across many locations in the city, essential goods, including clothing, blankets and food, are being collected and promptly transported to provinces hardest hit by the recent storms and flooding.

Each box of supplies reflects heartfelt compassion, and every relief trip strengthens bonds of solidarity.

The spirit of mutual support is spreading widely throughout the community, demonstrating the affection and responsibility of the capital city for the disaster-stricken central region.

Colonel Nguyen Truong Toan of Regiment 917, Division 370 of the Air Force, reported that two helicopter crews of the unit successfully carried out an airdrop mission delivering essential relief supplies to residents of Phong Lien Commune in ak Lak Province, one of the localities hardest hit by the recent heavy rains. VNS
HA NOI  Permanent Deputy Minister of Health Vu Manh Ha has called on the European Union, European businesses and the EU-ASEAN Business Council to concentrate their cooperation efforts on the green economic chain, training, research, technology transfer, and the production of vaccines, pharmaceuticals and advanced medical equipment for both domestic use and export.

Ha made the remarks during a recent working session with a delegation from EuroCham and the European business community at the ministrys headquarters.

He also urged European companies to expand direct investment in Viet Nam by building and enlarging factories, strengthening cooperation, transferring technology and sharing expertise with Vietnamese enterprises.

Such collaboration would help Viet Nam access high-quality medicines, modern treatment options and lower healthcare costs through exposure to international best practice across preventive medicine, clinical care, vaccine production and drug manufacturing.

He encouraged businesses to work alongside the ministry in standardising medical training, advancing AI applications, accelerating digital transformation and improving medical equipment, so that more Vietnamese people can benefit from modern healthcare services.

Ha underlined that the ministry highly values the EUs longstanding and substantial support for Viet Nam, particularly from the European business community in healthcare.

Over the past 35 years of diplomatic relations, Viet Nam and the EU have signed numerous agreements, reflecting the importance of deepening cooperation for sustainable development.

Viet Nam sees the EU and the EuropeASEAN business community as practical, important and effective partners in its economic development, trade expansion and broader international integration.

Ha highlighted several key policy directions issued by the Politburo, including Resolution No. 72-NQ/TW on September 9, 2025 on breakthrough solutions to enhance public healthcare, and Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW on December 22, 2024 on advancing science, technology, innovation and national digital transformation.

He expressed hope that Viet Nam and the EU would further translate the political commitments into concrete, mutually beneficial actions, and called on European partners to maximise their comparative strengths to deepen cooperation in priority fields.

Ha said that the ministry is currently restructuring the Steering Committee on Global Health and establishing a Global Health Office under the Department of International Cooperation.

The office will advise the Minister on sector priorities and key areas of global health engagement, serving as a focal point for strengthened cooperation with the EU and European-ASEAN businesses.

Representing the visiting delegation, Li Chen, Executive Board Member of the EU-ASEAN Business Council and Head of ASEAN Public Affairs at HSBC, and Torben Minko Board Member of EuroCham Viet Nam and General Director of B. Braun Viet Nam said that the meeting offered a valuable opportunity to exchange views on shared priorities, improve mutual understanding and learn more about Viet Nams forthcoming health-sector development directions. VNS
HA NOI  Police have seized and frozen large sums of cash, gold, land certificates and luxury vehicles as part of an expanding investigation into Mailisa, a prominent Vietnamese beauty spa chain accused of large-scale smuggling and illicit profiteering.

The police have so far confiscated VN3 billion (US$160,000), more than $400,000, 300 taels of gold, 100 land use right certificates, and 12 supercars to serve the investigation.

On November 21, the Anti-Corruption, Economic and Smuggling Crimes Police Department launched legal proceedings for the offence of smuggling involving MK Skincare Company and related units and localities. At the same time, the agency pressed charges and ordered the temporary detention of Phan Thi Mai, director of Mailisa Aesthetic Clinic Co Ltd, along with seven others for the same offence.

The initial investigation determined that between 2020 and 2024, Mai and her husband Hoang Kim Khanh purchased cosmetics manufactured at low cost in Guangzhou, China, then resold them across Viet Nam through the Mailisa beauty clinic chain for substantial profit. The products did not meet declared quality or ingredient standards and did not satisfy conditions for obtaining a Certificate of Free Sale in China.

Investigators allege that the defendants colluded with Chinese partners, signed sham contracts and altered the declared origin of the cosmetics from Guangzhou to Hong Kong before smuggling them into Viet Nam. They were then advertised as Hong Kong-made products to bolster consumer trust and sold at prices dozens of times higher, generating significant illegal profits.

Based on just three of more than 100 key products supplied by the Mailisa network, illegally obtained profits have been estimated at several trillion ong, equivalent to hundreds of millions of US dollars. By the time the case was opened, Mailisa had grown to 17 branches nationwide and had distributed more than eight million products across nearly 100 product codes.

After their arrest, Mai and Khanh voluntarily paid VN300 billion ($11.4 million) to the State budget to remedy consequences, and handed over registration papers for 12 supercars as well as other valuable assets to support the investigation.

According to police, Mailisa spent around VN20 billion ($760,000) per month on social media advertising to build its brand. The couple allegedly exaggerated the quality and effectiveness of the low-cost products through media campaigns and aspirational imagery to sell them at vastly inflated prices.

So far, the Ministry of Health has revoked 80 declaration receipt numbers and 162 cosmetic products linked to Mailisa Beauty Salon.  VNS
GIA LAI  Provinces across Viet Nams south-central coast are rushing to bring thousands of fishing boats to shore and move residents out of high-risk zones as Typhoon Koto, the countrys 15th storm this year, gathers strength offshore.

Meteorologists say the storms track and intensity remain uncertain, but its wide circulation combined with a cold-air surge could unleash more intense downpours from a Nang to Lam ong, which are already struggling to recover from recent historic flooding.

Officials fear that saturated hillsides could give way, triggering fresh landslides and flooding in low-lying communities.

In Gia Lai Province, the provincial government ordered close monitoring of storm bulletins and imposed tight controls on boats heading out to sea.

Local authorities were told to contact every vessel in the storms projected path and instruct captains, including those operating tourist and transport boats, to steer clear of dangerous waters.

Fishing communities were warned to maintain constant radio contact as winds strengthen.

Communes were also told to prepare rapid evacuations from areas vulnerable to flash floods or slope failure, and to pre-position food, fuel and rescue equipment under the national 'four on-the-spot' emergency plan.

Provincial border-guard units said they had already alerted more than 5,400 vessels with over 39,000 crew members operating offshore.

In neighbouring Khanh Hoa, more than 3,300 boats had reached safe harbour by Thursday afternoon, according to the provincial fisheries-infrastructure authority.

From 7am on Friday, all fishing boats, tourist vessels and cargo ships were banned from going out to sea, and all remaining offshore crews will be brought ashore by 6pm.

Officials said ports had been instructed to arrange boats safely, maintain order and enforce fire-safety rules as hundreds of vessels crowd into anchorages.

Reservoir operators were ordered to lower water levels ahead of incoming flows to protect dams and downstream communities.

Lam ong also activated its highest-level response plans.

The province issued a ban on all sea activities from Friday morning and told local governments to finalise evacuation scenarios for coastal households, aquaculture farmers and residents living on unstable slopes.

The storm is expected to make its closest approach later this week, though forecasters caution that sudden shifts in direction remain possible.  VNS
KHANH HOA  An alleged transnational fraud and human trafficking kingpin has been arrested in Khanh Hoa Province fewer than eight months after he was placed under a wanted order by a South Korean court and an Interpol Red Notice was issued for him as an especially dangerous offender.

On November 21, Khanh Hoa Provincial Police apprehended Yeo Sungjin, 37, a South Korean national, while he was hiding in a luxury apartment within the Muong Thanh Vien Trieu apartmenthotel complex in Bac Nha Trang Ward.

According to Interpol Red Notice A-4658/4-2025 requested by South Korea, Yeo was one of the key executives of a large romance scam and human trafficking ring operating out of a criminal compound in Bavet, Cambodia, near the Vietnamese border.

From August 2024 to February 2025, under Yeos direct command, a group of around 60 people used deepfake technology to create large numbers of fake social media accounts for attractive women, targeting men in multiple Asian countries.

The organisation operated by building romantic trust and luring victims into transferring money via fake travel websites, promising full refunds along with free flights and hotel stays, purportedly for trips together.

In that period alone, the ring allegedly defrauded victims of at least US$1million.

Defrauding money was only the first step. Many victims, after being coaxed into coming to Viet Nam to meet their purported partner, were allegedly taken by Yeo or his accomplices and smuggled across the border into Cambodia.

In the notorious criminal compounds in Bavet, their passports were confiscated, they were held in confinement, assaulted and forced to continue scamming others; those who resisted were brutally beaten or sold to other criminal groups.

For these alleged acts, Yeo has been charged in South Korea with three particularly serious offences: fraud, participation in a structured criminal organisation, and human trafficking.

After part of the ring was dismantled earlier this year, Yeo fled Cambodia, moving clandestinely through the Golden Triangle region before illegally entering Viet Nam to continue evading arrest.

At the time of his arrest, Yeos red notice had not yet appeared in the international database of wanted criminals accessible in Viet Nam.

However, through stringent monitoring of foreign nationals and heightened vigilance, the Immigration Management Division of Khanh Hoa Police detected that Yeo was residing illegally in the Muong Thanh Vien Trieu apartment.

During a unit inspection, he was unable to present any identity documents and displayed numerous suspicious signs. Through specialised investigative measures, officers confirmed he was the subject of the urgent Interpol Red Notice.

On the same day, the provincial police swiftly completed case documentation, executed an emergency custody order and coordinated with the Ministry of Public Security's Department of Foreign Affairs to request official verification from the South Korean side via the Interpol National Central Bureau in South Korea, preparing legal procedures for his expulsion from Viet Nam.

Khanh Hoa Police have escorted Yeo to Cam Ranh International Airport for a direct handover to South Korean police on the night of November 26, implementing extradition in accordance with Vietnamese law and existing mutual legal assistance agreements.

In addition to handling Yeo, provincial authorities are expanding the investigation to clarify acts of 'Organising or brokering for others to exit, enter or stay in Viet Nam illegally' committed by individuals, organisations and lodging establishments that assisted or facilitated his evasion within the locality.  VNS
HA NOI  Viet Nams efforts in HIV response have cushioned the impact of funding cuts on HIV treatment, but preventive programmes are seeing disruptions, according to a 2025 World AIDS Day report.

The report released by the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) shows that the number of people using pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in Viet Nam fell by 21 per cent between late 2024 and mid-2025.

PrEP, considered a critical prevention option against HIV, used to be provided for free at local clinics under donor-supported programmes before the funding disruptions.

A similar situation was also reported in other countries, with Burundi and Uganda recording 64 per cent and 38 per cent drops in PrEP users, respectively.

Community-led organisations from Viet Nam to Kenya and Mozambique have also been impacted by funding cuts, with many forced to reduce staffing. Layoffs range from a third of organisational staff to nearly all clinical staff, per the report.

At the UNAIDS Asia Pacifics report and advocacy campaign launch on Friday, Director of the Regional Support Team Eamonn Murphy said: After decades of struggle, the world is within reach today of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. Yet, a severe funding crisis has thrown that response into turmoil, disrupting HIV prevention and community-led services.

If these cuts persist, almost four million people could contract HIV over the next five years, from 2025 to 2030. Instead of finishing the job, we will have given the epidemic fresh momentum to spread and grow.

Viet Nam has been recognised for its commitment to prioritising domestic resources, including its national health insurance scheme, to reduce disruptions caused by declining external funding.

Evidence demonstrates that cuts in donor support have had a less severe impact on access to HIV services in countries where antiretroviral therapy (ART) is already integrated into national health insurance systems, such as the Philippines, Thailand and Viet Nam, according to a UNAIDS report.

However, the UN joint programme underscored the need for sustainability, stressing that governments must move beyond simply covering treatment costs and begin making substantial investments in prevention and community-led services.

The Viet Nam Administration of Disease Prevention has also formed an informal task team to receive feedback from people living with HIV and key populations, according to a UNAIDS update in March focused on the impact of US funding cuts on HIV response programmes in Viet Nam.

Meanwhile, the key population-led Hai ang (Lighthouse) Social Enterprise has piloted tiered co-payment models for PrEP to mitigate the effects of donor cuts, while also providing financial assistance to community members negatively affected by service cutbacks.

HIV response efforts in the Asia Pacific reported positive news recently, after the Australian government on Thursday announced an AUD48 million (US$31.3 million) programme to provide the region with technical assistance and co-investment.

This year, UNAIDS also launched the French-supported LInitiative/Expertise France on Equitable, Sustainable and Efficient Financing for HIV and Health in Southeast Asia. This effort aims to increase sustainable and equitable financing for national HIV responses and health in several countries in the Southeast Asia region, including Viet Nam, Cambodia, Laos and Thailand.  VNS
SEOUL  A delegation of the Viet Nam General Confederation of Labour (VGCL) led by its President Nguyen inh Khang is paying a working visit to the Republic of Korea (RoK) from Thursday to Saturday to enhance cooperation in labour and employment.

During the trip, the delegation held discussions with the RoKs National Labour Relations Commission (NLRC) to learn about procedures for handling labour disputes, labour mediation, and labour arbitration. They also had a meeting with the Korea Labour & Employment Service (KLES) to explore its support for Vietnamese workers employed in the RoK, as well as for Korean enterprises investing in Viet Nam.

On Friday, the delegation met with representatives from the Federation of Korean Trade Unions (FKTU) to exchange experiences in trade union activities and discuss ways to deepen cooperation between the VGCL and FKTU in the coming time.

At these meetings, both sides commended the strong development of Viet Nam  RoK diplomatic relations and agreed on the need for closer coordination between the VGCL and Korean labour authorities.

Strengthening support for workers and enterprises, and fostering harmonious labour relations were considered crucial to promoting the shared interests of all parties, especially against the backdrop of increasingly robust bilateral cooperation. Human resources exchange was highlighted as an important area requiring further attention.

As part of their trip, the VGCL delegation also visited the Vietnamese Embassy in Seoul. On this occasion, Khang briefed the embassy on the outcomes of the visit and recent developments within the VGCL, particularly the ongoing restructuring of trade unions within the state apparatus.

Vietnamese Ambassador to the RoK Vu Ho provided an overview of the progress in the two countries comprehensive strategic partnership, and updated the delegation on the situation of the Vietnamese community in the RoK.

He noted that the community has been growing rapidly in both size and quality, with more than 350,000 Vietnamese currently living, working, and studying in the RoK. While they have made significant contributions to both countries, many also face challenges related to cultural differences, legal procedures, and language barriers.

The ambassador stressed that the embassy has been working tirelessly to help Vietnamese nationals integrate into Korean society while preserving their cultural identity.  VNA/VNS
SYDNEY  Vietnamese Spring Fest 2025, the largest cultural and community event of the Vietnamese community in Western Australia, has taken place in Perth, attracting thousands of Vietnamese and local residents.

The event was jointly organised by the Consulate General of Viet Nam in Western Australia and the Northern Territory, in coordination with the AustraliaVietnam Talent Network (AVTN) and the Vietnamese Womens Association of Western Australia (WAVNWA).

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Consul General Nguyen Thanh Ha said the festival aims to promote Vietnamese cultural values to international friends while serving as a bridge to enhance trade links between Viet Nam and Western Australia.

In his welcome remarks, Perth Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds said that the Vietnamese community is an important part of the citys multicultural fabric, contributing significantly to its economic, cultural and social life.

He affirmed that the city authorities fully support similar events, which foster cultural exchange among communities.

Representing the organising committee, Hannah Vu, AVTN President, said the Vietnamese community in Perth had spent months preparing for the festival with the hope that it would not only be a celebration but also a symbol of unity and a place where overseas Vietnamese can relive memories of their homeland and strengthen new bonds between the two nations.

A highlight of the programme was the show of an ao dai collection by designer La Pham. The garments, crafted from Vietnamese silk, hemp, fabrics and ethnic brocade, were designed to honour the traditional culture within a contemporary setting.

The festival also featured a Tet (Lunar New year) village, recreating the ambience of home with Vietnamese food stalls and displays of regional specialities.

Booths offering study-abroad consultations, import-export services, and other Vietnamese and Australian business support quickly became popular stops for young people and local enterprises. Nguyen Trang Ngoc Minh Thu, the founder of Global Trade Connection, said many Australian visitors expressed interest in potential cooperation in cuisine, trade and tourism.

She noted that the Vietnamese community in Western Australia is entering a new phase of development, with a growing number of capable young entrepreneurs, an important foundation for strengthening future Viet Nam-Australia trade links. VNA/OVN
NEW DELHI  The new labour codes mark a significant step towards creating a more inclusive, safe, and enabling work environment for women, the Government claimed on Thursday.

With progressive provisions on equality, maternity benefits, workplace safety, and representation in decision-making bodies, the codes modernise labour regulations to meet the needs of todays economy, an official press note said.

These reforms not only safeguard the rights of women workers but also expand opportunities by ensuring equal treatment and supporting their participation across all sectors, including night shifts and hazardous industries.

Together, these measures strengthen womens economic empowerment and contribute to a more resilient and gender-balanced labour ecosystem.

The four labour codes include the Code on Wages, 2019, the Industrial Relations Code, 2020, the Code on Social Security, 2020, and the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020.

The codes modernise labour regulations and provide women with equality, maternity benefits, workplace safety, and representation in decision-making bodies.

Beyond safeguarding the rights of women workers, the reforms also expand opportunities by ensuring equal treatment and supporting their participation across all sectors, including night shifts and hazardous industries.

The key benefits extended to women span all four labour codes.

The Industrial Relations Code 2020 mandates adequate representation of women in the Grievance Redressal Committee (GRC), not less than their proportion in the total workforce of the establishment. It ensures women workers have a fair voice in workplace dispute resolution; womens perspectives help address issues more comprehensively and sensitively.

Under the Code on Social Security, every woman employee who has worked for at least 80 days in the 12 months before the expected delivery is eligible for equal wages during the maternity leave period of 26 weeks.

In addition, a woman who adopts a child below 3 months of age or is a commissioning mother (a biological mother who uses surrogacy) is eligible for 12 weeks of maternity benefit from the date of adoption or when the child is handed over.

Notably, the law provides for work from home, nursing breaks for breastfeeding women, and creche facilities.

Further, the law has opened the gates for women workers to work in all establishments and do all types of work.

They may also work at night, that is, before 6 a.m. and beyond 7 p.m., with their consent, and the employer is required to make adequate arrangements for their safety, facilities, and transportation, the statement said, supporting a higher female participation in the workforce.

The Code on Wages, 2019, also mandates employers not to discriminate on the grounds of gender in matters relating to recruitment, wages, or conditions of employment.

Together, these measures strengthen womens economic empowerment and contribute to a more resilient and gender-balanced labour ecosystem, the statement added.  THE STATESMAN/ANN
BANGKOK  Thailand has recently kicked off its initiative to strengthen efforts to end violence against women.

As reported by the countrys Government Public Relations Department, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul presided over the national kick-off event, affirming that guaranteeing womens safety, protection, and access to appropriate support is one of the Governments highest priorities.

To reinforce long-term protection, the Thai Government appointed the Ministry of Interior as the central agency overseeing efforts to end violence against women, highlighting its strong presence at the community level.

The PM urged local authorities to work proactively, promote awareness, detect early signs of risk, and prevent violence before it happens, stressing that all communities must ensure a safe environment for women and children.

He instructed the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, the Ministry of Public Health, the Royal Thai Police, the Damrongdhama Centre, and local administrative bodies to synchronise their information systems and coordinate to ensure swift, comprehensive, and effective assistance.  VNA/VNS
A teenage college student was deported to Honduras by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents despite a federal judge's orders blocking the 19-year-old's removal.

The teenager was identified as Any Lucia Lopez Belloza, who was about to board a plane from Boston Logan Airport to Texas to surprise her parents before being detained by ICE agents on Nov. 20. The incident was confirmed by her attorney, Todd Pomerleau.

College Student Deported to Honduras Against Judge's Order

Court documents showed that U.S. District Judge Allison D. Burroughs had ordered that the teenager not be deported from the U.S. or transferred outside the state of Massachusetts. Despite this, Lopez Belloza was transferred to a detention facility in the southeast U.S.-Mexico border on Nov. 21, and subsequently deported to Honduras the day after.

Pomerleau said that what ICE did to the college student is "unconstitutional on so many levels." The attorney added that when Lopez Belloza went through TSA, she was surrounded, handcuffed, dragged out of the airport, thrown into a van, and taken to the Boston field office, according to People.

The attorney revealed that neither he nor his client had any idea about a removal order for the college student. Poemeleau noted that Lopez Belloza had protection from being removed from the country and that she was supposed to get her day in court. He argued that ICE agents violated his client's rights and denied her that opportunity.

Pormeleau is the founder of Mass Deportation Defense, which is serving immigrants in the Greater Boston area. The recently deported teenager is a business major at Babson College, who said she worked hard to be at Babson in her first semester, as it had been her dream.

A 2015 Removal Order

In response, a spokesperson for ICE confirmed that Lopez Belloza's removal was due to a deportation order that was issued in 2015. Now, Pomerleau said they are planning to take legal action to bring the college student back to the U.S., AA reported.

The situation comes after ICE detained an Oregon teenager, which sparked a walkout of students from McMinnville High School. They protested the government detaining 17-year-old Christian Jimenez, who was driving his father's car at the time he was detained.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said that the teenage student tried to use his vehicle to "violently attack" ICE and border patrol agents. It added that the teenager colluded with another driver to "barricade" agents before fleeing the scene, as per Oregon Live.
Sustainability is moving beyond a trending concept to become a defining principle of architecture and design. The question is no longer whether beauty and environmental responsibility can coexist, but how they can harmonise within our living spaces. As one of the world's leading manufacturers in paints and coatings, AkzoNobel is at the forefront of this transformation, bringing forward fresh perspectives and practical solutions to the urgent challenges of climate and community wellbeing.

Wijnand Bruinsma, director of sustainability at AkzoNobel, directly leads these efforts. He focuses on driving climate change mitigation strategies, community projects, and product innovations to reduce the industry's carbon footprint. In this conversation, he shared his candid and practical insights on balancing aesthetics with sustainability, and how collaboration and technology are shaping the future of design.

Wijnand Bruinsma, director of sustainability at AkzoNobel

What recent initiatives has AkzoNobel led to address climate change?

Over the past 45 years, the average global temperature has risen by nearly 1 C. That might sound like a small number, but it's actually immense, as we have only about one more degree to spare over several centuries. Meanwhile, atmospheric carbon levels have increased by roughly 25 per cent, leading to severe impacts like natural disasters and heat stress. This shows that climate change is not just a headline, but a tangible reality that directly affects our lives.

The world will face even greater challenges ahead, and I firmly believe that businesses play a central role in moderating climate impact. At AkzoNobel, we have set two major ambitions.

Within AkzoNobel operations: Our 130 manufacturing sites worldwide aim to cut carbon emissions by 50 per cent by 2030, compared with 2018 levels. By the end of last year, we had already achieved a 41 per cent reduction and are moving closer to our target this year.

Across our entire value chain: Beyond internal operations, we also aim for a 50 per cent emissions reduction among our suppliers and customers by 2030 (taking 2018 as our baseline).

These are complex tasks, but we are making steady, measurable progress.

In your opinion, are cross-sector research and collaboration the ideal solutions for environmental challenges?

When it comes to sustainability, the most important keyword is collaboration.

First, collaboration must happen within the company. Different departments, from marketing to research and development and supply chain, each see emerging trends and challenges from unique angles. What matters is connecting these insights to develop actionable solutions.

Next is partnership with direct partners who are our customers, suppliers, and neighbouring businesses to drive change together.

And the third level, which is both the most complex and the most critical, is collaboration across the entire value chain. We work closely with green building councils, non-governmental organisations, and policymakers because no single entity can provide a complete solution to environmental challenges on its own.

What role do technology and innovation play in realising AkzoNobel's sustainable solutions ?

At AkzoNobel, we are applying a range of modern technologies. With the number of professional painters declining globally, we've started using robots to handle wall painting. In research and development, we are experimenting with quantum computing to shorten the development process for paint formulation. We've also launched Coatings AI in our powder coatings business. This tool uses AI to help customers optimise paint usage and minimise waste while maintaining surface protection.

In regions with specific climates, such as Southeast Asia, what sustainable solutions is AkzoNobel focusing on to meet local market needs?

For wall paints and coatings in Southeast Asia, I would emphasise two key points: first, reducing heat and improving climate resilience; and second, contributing positively to human health and wellbeing. These are the two core priorities when developing sustainable products for this region.

Many Asian cities are already hot and are getting hotter due to the urban heat island effect. To address this, we have developed KeepCool Technology, which reflects sunlight and lowers the surface temperatures of buildings by up to 5 C compared with conventional paint solutions. That translates to a 15 per cent reduction in air-conditioning energy use, achieved through a paint layer less than one millimetre thick.

The Dai Lanh Lighthouse, one of three lighthouses renovated under AkzoNobel's Lighthouse Protection Campaign, was protected by Dulux Weathershield, a premium exterior paint with the ultimate protection against harsh weather

We've also created paint products capable of absorbing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as formaldehyde. This helps to improve indoor air quality for urban residents.

What role do paints and coatings play in creating spaces that are both beautiful and sustainable?

Some might wonder, how can something less than a millimetre thick make a difference in sustainability and climate resilience? I believe this is the superpower of paints and coatings. They not only bring aesthetic value but also contribute to improving air quality, reducing heat buildup, and even protecting buildings for years. This is crucial when the construction industry accounts for nearly 40 per cent of global carbon emissions.

Through advanced technologies, AkzoNobel's goal is to prove that even a thin coating can make a lasting impact on health, the environment, and the community.

AkzoNobel is proud to protect the exterior of Grand Marina Saigon, including windows, facades, and sunshades, with Interpon D2525 powder coatings

Could you share some projects that illustrate AkzoNobel's approach to sustaina bility, especially those connected to the community?

In Vietnam, we have participated in preserving coastal lighthouses and renovating 14 decorating schools, giving children better spaces to learn and grow. In Indonesia, one of our most meaningful projects involved repainting a school canteen entirely in yellow. That simple change drastically reduced the number of flies, thereby improving hygiene and student health.

To me, that is the true power of paint, and especially of colour. A single coat can change behaviour, enhance wellbeing, and elevate quality of life. And that's why I believe sustainability is not just a concept, but a journey of tangible benefits for society.

AkzoNobel launches campaign to drive sustainable wood manufacturing AkzoNobel Wood Finishes has rolled out a new regional campaign, highlighting practical steps for wood product manufacturers to boost efficiency and cut emissions.

AkzoNobel introduces air-purifying Dulux paint to Vietnam AkzoNobel has introduced Dulux Ambiance AirFresh, a premium interior paint designed to purify indoor air and promote healthier living spaces.
The latest data from the National Statistics Office shows that total capital raised on Vietnams stock market reached $15.7 billion in the first nine months of 2025, up 4.8 per cent on-year. The number of investor accounts hit 10.75 million as of end-August, up 15.7 per cent compared to end of 2024.

These figures highlight the markets strong growth momentum and rising vibrancy, with liquidity improving sharply and fresh capital continuing to flow in.

In a recent talk with the press, Nguyen Quang Thuan, chairman of FiinGroup, a financial intelligence and analytics company, remarked that the total value of equity capital  excluding bonus shares, stock dividends or initial public offerings (IPOs)  would reach an all-time high this year, surpassing the previous peak of $5.08 billion in 2021.

In fact, in just the first 10 months of 2025, this figure had already approached $4.16 billion. With two major IPOs from VPS JSC and VPBank Securities added, FiinGroup estimates that total equity raised will reach at least $5.2 billion.

This accounts only for equity mobilisation, excluding private corporate bonds and public offerings by listed companies, highlighting the vital role of Vietnams stock market in channelling medium- and long-term capital to the economy.

Vietnam must balance attracting foreign investment with strengthening a sustainable domestic capital base. Diversifying funding sources  from hedge funds and portfolio funds to mutual funds, pension funds, and sovereign wealth funds  is essential, as these stable flows help reduce market volatility, said Thuan.

At a recent regular government press meeting, Deputy Minister of Finance Nguyen Duc Chi reaffirmed that Vietnams capital market development strategy through 2030 clearly positions the capital and stock markets as the primary medium- and long-term funding channels for the economy.

The Ministry of Finance is rolling out a series of coordinated measures to meet this goal. In particular, the push to upgrade Vietnam from a frontier to an emerging market remains a top priority in 2025.

This backdrop has encouraged a wave of securities firms to accelerate capital-raising plans in preparation for a new business cycle.

Capital-intensive sectors such as securities and real estate continue to lead the fundraising push through various channels, including IPOs, private placements and rights offerings.

VietCap Securities has approved a plan to privately place up to 127.5 million shares, expected to raise at least $92 million. Following the deal, the firms charter capital is projected to reach $340 million.

Similarly, HD Securities has finalised a large-scale capital hike plan. With an expected raise of $351 million, its charter capital could increase to $438 million.

IPO activity remains brisk. VPS Securities said it successfully sold more than 200 million shares at $2.40 per share. Its two earlier announced IPOs also closed, with demand far exceeding supply.

Techcom Securities offered 231.15 million shares at $1.87 each. VPBank Securities received registrations for nearly 390.5 million shares, worth $533 million.

In real estate, Nam Hanoi Housing and Urban Development Investment Corporation is expediting a public share offering plan at a 3:1 ratio to raise $6.48 million for upcoming projects.

After several delays, DIC Group has resumed and successfully completed its public share offering plan, raising $72 million at an offering price of $0.48 per share.

This year marks an exceptionally dynamic phase for Vietnams stock market, with the VN-Index surpassing 1,600 points, liquidity strengthening significantly and the countrys prospects for a market-status upgrade becoming clearer.

Supporting this momentum, the KRX trading system went live in May, modernising trading infrastructure and improving clearing and settlement mechanisms to international standards.

The planned rollout of the Central Counterparty Clearing mechanism by 2027 will further enable businesses to better leverage the stock market for fundraising needs.

Robust market could pull in fund appetites The nations capital market can offer a wide range of opportunities for both local and foreign financial backers, particularly investment funds.

Driving forces set scene for capital market momentum Vietnam is entering a pivotal phase of economic transformation, with bold policy reforms and a renewed focus on domestic capacity building setting the stage for a capital market upgrade and long-term growth.
The cooperation focuses on promoting sustainable agriculture and reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, contributing to the countrys efforts to accelerate its Net Zero target.

The MoU was announced during a meeting between MAE leaders and Remy Ejel, CEO for Nestle Zone Asia, Oceania, and Africa.

Nestle Vietnam and the MAEs Department of International Cooperation signed an MoU on sustainable growth

The agreement underscores Nestles long-term confidence in Vietnams growth potential and recognises the countrys position as a key driver of the companys regional strategy. It also reflects a shared commitment to aligning economic growth with environmental protection and social progress.

A central pillar of the cooperation is the promotion of regenerative and low-emission farming practices. By supporting farmers in adopting these methods, the MAE and Nestle aim to strengthen climate resilience and improve the competitiveness of Vietnams agricultural sector.

Nestles NESCAFE Plan, one of its flagship sustainability programmes, has so far supported more than 21,000 farming households, rejuvenated 86,000 hectares of coffee crops and improved farmer incomes. Building on this foundation, the partnership will expand training, technical support and the provision of high-quality seedlings for coffee farmers, particularly in the Central Highlands.

Beyond farming practices, the cooperation prioritises innovation, knowledge sharing, and capacity building. The two sides will jointly organise workshops, seminars, and training sessions to raise awareness of new regulatory frameworks and best practices in sustainable agriculture and environmental protection.

These events will bring together experts, policymakers, and industry leaders to discuss issues such as emissions reduction, circular economy models, and waste management.

Nestle will also introduce an internship programme for agriculture students at Tay Nguyen University, aimed at equipping future professionals with practical skills and experience in sustainable farming.

Farmers are trained in regenerative farming techniques under the NESCAFE Plan

Nguyen Hoang Hiep, deputy minister of the MAE, said the ministry values the proactive engagement of the business community in contributing to national sustainability objectives.

The signing of this MoU reaffirms the long-term commitment between the MAE and Nestle Vietnam in advancing green-growth strategies and supporting Vietnams net zero target for 2050, he noted.

Remy Ejel emphasised that the partnership demonstrates Nestles sustained investment in Vietnam and its role as a strategic development partner.

We are honoured to accompany the Vietnamese government in its efforts to build a sustainable, low-emission economy and foster a new generation of farmers ready to adopt regenerative agriculture, he said.

With more than 30 years of operations in Vietnam, Nestle has positioned itself not only as a major food and beverage enterprise but also as a long-term partner in promoting healthy lifestyles, regenerative agriculture, and waste-free solutions, aligned with Vietnams green transition ambitions.

In response to recent severe storms affecting several provinces, Nestle Vietnam has also provided financial support and nutritional products through the Vietnam Fatherland Front.
The Gen AI solution has enabled SGF to effectively streamline its documentation for global exports, enhancing regulatory compliance and operational speed. The initiative was conceived and implemented by award-winning cloud and data transformation partner Cloud Kinetics, and is powered by Gen AI technology from Amazon Web Services (AWS).

SGF has launched a Gen AI-powered translation platform. Photo: AWS

As a key exporter to Japan with planned expansion into the EU, US, and Korea, SGF, a member of the Maruha Nichiro Group (Japan), regularly handles high volumes of specialised multilingual technical documents. This includes production procedures, HACCP, MSC, BRC, ISO certifications, QA/QC reports, and product labels requiring translations between Vietnamese, Japanese, and English.

Manual translation processes were time-consuming, costly, and prone to errors in specialised food industry terminology, creating compliance risks that could jeopardize international safety standards and disrupt export operations.

To address these challenges, SGF partnered with Cloud Kinetics to build its specialised AI translation platform. The system leveraged the power of AWSs cutting-edge Gen AI services including: Amazon Translate to provide high-speed automated translations; Anthropic's Claude Sonnet 3.5 on Amazon Bedrock to standardise industry terminology (e.g., HACCP, ISO) and ensure contextual accuracy; and OCR Technology and an automated pipeline to process various file types (DOCX, PDF, XLSX, PPTX, images), preserving document formatting.

The AI translation platform has delivered breakthrough benefits. First is operational speed. Document translation and processing time has been reduced by over 75 per cent through automated formatting, enabling faster responses to international partners, especially for urgent shipments and inspections.

Second is meeting global compliance standards. Food terminology and HACCP/ISO safety standards are now consistent across languages, minimising legal risks and standardising packaging.

Third is cost and resource savings. Manual translation and editing costs have been cut by 45 per cent, freeing staff to focus on research and development (R&D) and product quality improvement.

Four is data sovereignty and control. An internal AI system provides full control over language, data, and processes while maintaining corporate data security and sovereignty.

Le Quoc Hung, vice general director of SGF, said, "The Gen AI solution, brought to life by Cloud Kinetics and AWS, has enabled us to become faster, more accurate, more agile, and more efficient. By placing digital transformation, and Gen AI specifically, at the core of our business development strategy, this solution ensures we remain a pioneering enterprise in leveraging the power of Industry 4.0 in our operations. This is a testament to how Vietnamese businesses can apply technology to constantly refine themselves and reach out to the world."

"As global food manufacturers face increasing pressure to meet diverse regulatory requirements and accelerate time-to-market, Gen AI and cloud technologies are emerging as critical enablers of transformation. We are proud to support SGFs journey in leveraging these technologies to transform their global operations. Their success demonstrates the tangible business value Gen AI delivers in driving growth and operational excellence," said Eric Yeo, country general manager of AWS Vietnam.

The new AI platform, while dramatically boosting SGFs efficiency and reach, also sets a new operational benchmark for the entire Vietnamese food processing industry.

As Phuc Anh Do, managing director for Vietnam at Cloud Kinetics, pointed out, Our goal was to provide the precise AI capabilities SGF needed to overcome complex export hurdles and build operational efficiency. The initiative affirms how using AI technology smartly, with focused goals and the right partners, gives local companies a strong edge when competing on the world stage.

SGF, established in 2003, is one of Vietnam's leading enterprises in ready-to-eat food and seafood exports. SGF currently owns five modern factories, employs nearly 2,000 staff, and maintains an extensive distribution system.

Cloud Kinetics is a leading digital transformation and managed services partner with deep and extensive hybrid cloud, multi-cloud, AI, and data expertise. Through cloud-powered AI innovation, Cloud Kinetics enables businesses to re-imagine their technology, build, scale, and drive tangible business outcomes. As a top-tier partner of AWS and other IT leaders, Cloud Kinetics leverages the best of the tech ecosystem for its customers.

Cloud Kinetics is headquartered in Singapore and operates globally across Asia, Australia, and the United States.

VPBank leverages AWS Skill Builder to fuel digital transformation VPBank announced on August 7 that it has integrated Amazon Web Services (AWS) Skill Builder into its cloud computing training programme to foster continuous learning at scale.

Empowering ASEAN via generative AI Amazon Web Services (AWS) has made the largest-ever investment in ASEAN by an international tech company, demonstrating its strong commitment to providing customers with the most resilient and secure cloud infrastructure. Jeff Johnson, managing director of AWS ASEAN, gave VIRs Bich Thuy his insights on how the investment is to shape the future of infrastructure and AI-driven innovation.
Lee Leong Seng, head of property development, Vietnam, Real Estate, Keppel Ltd

Seng said that Keppel has always regarded ESG as a foundational pillar. Sustainability is in Keppel's DNA, he emphasised. However, translating this commitment into real-world projects involves overcoming various challenges in planning, design, and operations.

During the planning and design stages, Keppel must identify land plots that are both commercially viable and capable of accommodating green spaces and natural elements, a balance that is not always easy to achieve. The biggest challenge is balancing economic value with environmental value, Lee noted.

ESG principles are integrated from the earliest concept sketches. Every design must meet fundamental sustainability criteria before being further enhanced during detailed development and materials selection. However, green solutions typically involve higher upfront costs, which may lead to increased selling prices. And while most buyers appreciate environmentally friendly projects, some remain cautious about the additional cost.

This challenge requires the collective effort of all stakeholders, Lee said. He also believes that government support and appropriate incentive policies will help raise public awareness and encourage businesses to invest more confidently in green materials and sustainable solutions.

During the operational phase, Keppel ensures that all projects meet green building standards. Energy-saving equipment, smart cooling technologies, and renewable energy, including solar power in commercial buildings, have been widely adopted.

A key highlight of Keppel's operations strategy is the Energy-as-a-Service (EaaS) model, provided by the group's infrastructure division. This subscription-based model includes intelligent energy management systems, smart cooling solutions, and emission-reduction initiatives.

In Vietnam, Keppel's Operations Nerve Centre enables real-time monitoring of energy consumption, optimising building performance.

Thanks to EaaS, buildings can operate more efficiently, reduce energy use, and cut carbon emissions, while improving real estate asset value over time. Seng believes that expanding this sustainable operations model will inspire local businesses and help strengthen the green ecosystem.

"Keppel considers Vietnam one of its priority markets in its regional sustainable urban development strategy," Seng said, and pointed out three main reasons. First, Vietnam is a core market in Keppel's real estate portfolio, with numerous flagship projects in major cities.

Second, rapid urbanisation and a growing middle class are creating considerable demand for smart and sustainable urban solutions, an area where Keppel has strong expertise. "Vietnam's economy continues to grow positively. The expanding middle class is driving demand for high-quality urban products," he said.

Third, Vietnam's strong focus on sustainability, particularly its net-zero commitment, aligns perfectly with Keppel's direction. At Keppel, sustainability is truly in our DNA, Seng said.

The alignment between national policies and Keppel's vision creates significant opportunities to introduce sustainable infrastructure, clean energy, and green building solutions into the market.

Concluding his remarks, Seng shared a concise but powerful message reflecting Keppel's long-term commitment: We grow with a long-term vision, creating safe, comfortable, and future-ready spaces.

In Vietnam, Keppel aims to build resilient, prosperous cities that contribute to green growth and improve quality of life for generations. For investors, Keppel is committed to being a trusted partner delivering sustainable value. For residents, Keppel's developments are not just homes but a SANCTUARY, a living space of quality today and sustainability for the future.

Keppel: investing in Vietnam's sustainable development As Vietnam continues its economic advancement, Keppel has been a steady contributor to its growth journey over the past three decades. Joseph Low, chief representative (Vietnam) and president (Vietnam) of Real Estate at Keppel Ltd., talked to VIR's Ngoc Anh about how the Singaporean firm is contributing to Vietnam's growth through bold sustainability strategies and a deep commitment to excellence.

Keppel receives investment registration certificate for Saigon Center Phase 3 The Real Estate Division of Keppel received the investment registration certificate for Phase 3 of Saigon Center, the company's flagship mixed-use development in Vietnam at the Vietnam-Singapore Connectivity Ministerial Meeting held in Hanoi on October 10.
Councillors probe education budget woes but told the size of the cake is the size of the cake

Wrexham Council have been warned that lumping redundancy costs on schools who are under pressure to make staff cuts will just create a negative cycle of further debt.

The comments emerged during a session of the Lifelong Learning Scrutiny Committee that took direct evidence from head teachers and governors.

The meeting took place in the context of warnings that a financial crisis is looming for our schools, and senior politicians stating There is only a crisis if the schools make it into a crisis.

Chair, Cllr Carrie Harper opened the debate with a broadside at the council administration leadership pointing to Wrexham.com articles, Just a few comments I would like to make before we get started in terms of a lot of the press coverage that theres been around this over the last couple of weeks.

I think some of the comments that weve seen from the council leadership to the press have been quite unhelpful. The deputy leader was quoted as saying, theres only a crisis if schools make it into a crisis. I think lets be clear, when youve got a situation where weve got 31 schools being projected to go into licenced deficit, as is set out in the report, I would call that a crisis.

I think as a committee, weve watched that crisis grow steadily over the last couple of years. Weve already lost 100 school staff locally.

Id sadly expect that number to go up. Im hearing we may have class sizes or 30 or 38 or more going forward.

The bottom line is that schools just havent got enough money, and we know that funding just hasnt kept up with rising demands and costs.

I think what came across as publicly pointing the finger at schools and governing bodies, even if that wasnt necessarily the intention, was just unhelpful. I hope that therell be some contemplation and reflection from the council leadership leadership in terms of how this issue is going to be discussed going forward, because as a council, we need to be working alongside schools to deal with what we all know is an unprecedented amount of pressure thats on staff and governors.

I think this is a difficult enough situation as it is, without the leadership being seen to take pot shots.

Lead Member for Education Cllr Phil Wynn then replied, Obviously, I cant speak for the leader or the deputy leader, but I can speak for myself. Ive had the pleasure of working with school communities in Wrexham since in the role as lead member since 2017 theres always challenges, but its always been a pleasure for me to have worked with schools, their staff, their governing bodies, and I hope my statement to the press earlier in the week record is full recognition of the input of those professional people.

Unfortunately, finances in the public sector is consuming everybodys time. At the moment, its just sucking the life out of everyone, and its no different in schools, and its no different in education either.

We have been talking about it for years, this cliff edge that were all heading towards, it just feels that its just getting closer and closer.

Wrexham is no worse, no better off, than any other local authority in Wales. Were just working tirelessly as well.

Paying tribute to council officers and a reworking of not just formula but transparency on figures, he added, The crucial thing is, we just need more money going in to actually help our schools.

Demographic changes were also referenced several times in the meeting with Cllr Wynn noting, I suppose one of the saving graces is that, as theres fewer children coming through in reception, it does give us an opportunity to redirect some some of that money back into the school formula to plug certain gaps that need better funding, but again, you can only allocate the money once.

Chris Wilkinson, head teacher of St Josephs told councillors, I think one thing that unites us all from the executive board, councillors, officers, head teachers and governing bodies is that there is insufficient money in the system to provide the education that wed like to provide for the young people of Wrexham.

Ive been a head for almost 10 years, and thats been 10 years of managing decline, and at times, has felt like taking an axe to staffing structure, and there are people around this table who will know the number of posts that have been removed from both frontline teaching but also in terms of support for pupils, either in terms of teaching assistants or in terms of support staff.

The only way to balance a budget is largely, because of the the the immense amount of school budget that is taken up purely by staffing costs, is therefore to remove staff from school, and where that is via redundancy procedures, inevitably, the school balances get worse, not better in the first instance as well.

I think in terms of the messages that went out recently, along with the school balances, I think its clear that they are likely to get worse before they get better, particularly in the short term.

Heads have a very difficult role to play, often being the face of any discussions with staff, it is difficult, the wellbeing of head teachers is is to some extent overlooked in terms of the pressure thats put on us to to deliver messages.

Ysgol Clywedog Headteacher Simon Ellis added created a unusual double act with Mr Wilkinson echoing comments made, Id start by because you started by mentioning the comments in the press. Id like to thank Councillor Wynn for his comments that appeared today. I think they set the right tone. I think they were supportive of of governors and head teachers, and I felt they were also very timely.

I think you would anticipate that head teachers are passionate people. You would want them to be so, and want them to be passionate about children and their education. So often, head teachers become very connected with their schools in which they work in and dont always step back and deal with it entirely in a business way, but see the impact on childrens education and futures in a more closely connected way than you might anticipate if we were just running businesses.

So, I would ask councillors to be particularly mindful of the impact that then that falls on both our business managers and the head teachers who are then faced with these situations.

If we are to make adaptations to our staffing, then you can only do that if theres funds available to do that, we need to seed-fund change. To seed-fund change, it seems to me that we need to provide redundancy costs for schools. Otherwise, what happens is you create a negative cycle of further debt. Debt to pay for the redundancy, to create further debt, etc, and it starts ball rolling. Thats very, very difficult to stop.

In fact, you have to cut harder and further than you ought to in order to pay for the redundancy cost, to bring the cost back in line within a three year cycle.

Cllr Robert Ian Williams kicked off the councillor questions, asking specifically about Darland Schools projected -1,183,812 closing balance along with The Maelor schools -764,903 noting the figures seemed way out compared to the other secondary schools.

Cllr Wynn said, The figures speak for themselves. We are working, particularly with those two schools closely, we will address that issue.

Its going to take a bit of time to actually pull that back to a balanced budget, but please be assured that were fully sighted on it.

Cllr Williams pressed for an actual answer, But what has gone wrong? Councillor?

Cllr Wynn declined to answer, I dont think its appropriate at this moment in time, in a public forum to talk about particular schools. I think I prefer to talk about things on a strategic high level. But please be assured, we are fully sighted. Were fully engaged with those skills and all the other skills as well that are currently in a licenced effort, because we we work tirelessly with them to set their budget the beginning of the year, and then we monitor them half termly to ensure that they are delivering against that.

If everything stays consistent, then we do expect schools to return at least to a balanced budget, but the days of having like 5 million pounds worth of school reserves, I think thats a thing of the past now, so I can understand why you want to push me on that, but I would prefer not to delve into particular schools, because if you pick on two, lets pick on all 69.

Cllr Robert Ian Williams changed tack, I do think that the people of Wrexham need to know about these things, particularly people who live in those areas.

But, Id like to ask the two heads here present. Ive been very concerned about supply teaching, because I had an experience of being on supply at one stage, and the supply is now in the hands totally of privatised agencies, and I know that they take a considerable sum

You talk very committedly about how you youre fighting for your schools, and you know youve had to deal with redundancies and other issues of staff. How dependent are you on supply in your schools and is that causing you concern?

Simon Ellis took up the question, In the last two years we have reduced supply by about 80%. One of the things that weve done in order to do that was to employ internal cover supervisors to cover short term supply issues.

They can cover for two or three days, and what it does is it reduces that very, very small levels of supply that takes place.

They also know the children, they know the schools rules and routines, and often find that any disruption that can take place is much reduced by their use, and that that leaves us then free to bring in long term supply as and when necessary from the agencies.

Sam Regan, a Parent/Governor speaking from direct experience in the Rhosnesni area, was critical of information before councillors saying the report lacks the detail that is really driving pressures in terms of budget and why schools are struggling to meet budget deficits.

Mr Regan stated in his view, Were not meeting the practical needs of children in terms of Individual Development Plans, Additional Learning Needs and behavioural issues. I think thats the number one biggest issue, certainly at Borras school, and trying to manage that process.

Staff morale was described as a huge issue, amplified by budget problems.

As mentioned several times in the meeting the responsibility for redundancy costs was also highlighted,  I know from from Borras perspective, its actually added a huge amount of money to the projected deficit, which really was out of our control, and although, yes, its never guaranteed, it was promised to us through separate meetings in multiple areas, and that the local authority have always come to the table with this.

Citing a Wrexham.com article on cleaning costs for schools he added, Cllr Bithell turned round and said its just a case of it being moved back into school budget. But the reality is, for Borras alone, 11,500 in additional cost.

Listing several other budget impacts he summarised, Im listing all the sorts of pressures that are coming back on schools, and all the things that we feel that we we cant really do anything about, apart from kick it back and say, Well, where do we go from here?'.

Cllr Wynn thanked Mr Regan and others who give up their time voluntary with no charge to the local authority, to their schools in a governor role, adding The budget formula has rebuilt it from zero, really, in the last year to make it as transparent as possible. But ultimately, the cake is the cake. The size of the cake is the size of the cake.

Whilst the review thats going on at the moment is identifying areas that should be prioritised if weve got any additional monies, thats where it needs to go to plug pressure. All those pressures that youve listed are recognised in that forum.

Its just that at the moment, we need additional money to be able to take those pressures away from you.

We fully appreciate your honesty in sharing that with the committee. But the only saving grace is as theres fewer children in the system.

Theres not enough money going into the system to address the pressures that schools are, particularly primary schools who provide teaching assistant support for children that are presenting with ALN needs.

Speaking about the recent UK Government budget and possible consequential to Cardiff he added, Hopefully, if there is money coming from the UK Government to the Welsh Government, that the Welsh Government will recognise that that is a particular pressure thats not going away. Its just growing. We do need that additional money to assist those children, but also to assist the school in being able to cater for their needs and make sure that theyve been educated in the school in their community that is the best outcome for that child.

Mr Regan detailed his frustration and pondered where the buck stopped, As it is kicked back to local authorities, it is kicked back to Welsh Government. Is it kicked back to UK Government?

Going a step further he added that things were getting to a point where things could be potentially unsafe for children, and asked who should be fighting the corner for better funding, You have got teachers trying to teach, teaching assistants trying to look after kids. Is it up to me and the head teacher to be fighting?

The situation in reality is that if we continue on this trajectory, things are going to become unsafe for the children.

If we continue on this trajectory of cut, cut, cut, were putting ourselves into a statutory position where were not delivering a good education for these children  behavioural issues, ALN issues, everything else.

The Chair asked officers about the topic of redundancy costs and if they would be covered by Wrexham Council as some evidence had detailed.

The Education Officer said there was a redundancy pot to help contribute to the covering of redundancy costs but was concerned to hear that schools had been told that the costs would be effectively fully covered. I cant comment any further on that, because that is my understanding of what has been said at the school budget forum and the meetings that Ive been in.

Cllr Anthony Wedlake, a governor at Ysgol Penygelli related how he was sure such assurances were made. I and my fellow governors and my interim head teacher went to meetings where we were absolutely told, not only were those redundancies going to be covered 100% by the local authority, we were encouraged to make braver decisions this year, because it wouldnt be on the agenda next year and wed have to fund redundancies going forward.

He added Now Im not looking for a witch hunt of people who might have got something wrong. After all, the leader and deputy leader and education lead cant agree on whether we have a crisis in our schools. There must be quite a lot of mixed messages going on, but it is clear, it is absolutely clear that this was the case that schools were told not only that it would be funded, but to be brave and dont put off decisions until other years, because this wont happen again.

Now I discovered this when my new head teacher had a phone call to say, your budgets changed and youre only going to get 20% of the funding for your redundancy costs, which meant immediately my school and others, but in this in this case, my school had an extra 50,000 to pay this year, and the advice was, well, Youll have to make someone else redundant to fund the first two redundancies that youve made.

The Chair declared, I think one thing is clear, something has gone very wrong in terms of communication on redundancies, and I think its important that we scrutinise that in a bit more detail and get to the bottom of whats gone wrong in terms of process and communication.

The Education Officer said, Im speaking truthfully and factually. The meetings that I have attended, I have not heard that said, however, what I have been told by Councillor Wedlake and other governors is that they have been told those messages in meetings. Now clearly that is an issue that we have to look at internally.

If there is misinformation out in the system, we need to understand where and why and whats accounted for

What this is is a very difficult, stressful, complicated situation for all, and if there is miscommunication, that miscommunication has been unintentional.

Cllr Wynn added, We will look into what miscommunication has taken place to make sure it doesnt happen going forward, as I said earlier on, we will sharpen up our communications going forward, because this problem is going away and theres going to be more schools in a licenced deficit next year.

Figures speak for themselves, but all I can do is give the assurance that I and Karen are working tirelessly to plug that shortfall in the redundancy costs.

The issue appears to be booted to the Executive Board to discuss and decide, with the committee asking that ALN and redundancy costs are set out in the report for the future year.

The committee also is looking for a confidential meeting to probe specific figures, with it appearing the public nature of the meeting this week being a barrier for those discussions.

The administration of the council were also encouraged to have consistency in messaging, with the personal pressures staff are under in the circumstances.

The committee also noted they recognised and appreciated all the work officers, staff, senior leaders and head teachers and others were doing.

Top pic: Home economics fan, Cllr Phil Wynn, Lead Member of Eduction
MP welcomes Budget move to scrap two-child benefit cap

The Member of Parliament for Montgomeryshire and Glyndwr has welcomed a decision to lift the two-child benefit cap in the Autumn Budget.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves announced the change, introduced by the Conservative Government in 2017, will be removed in April 2026.

It is estimated that the removal of the limit would lift 450,000 children out of hardship across the UK.

Around a third of children in Montgomeryshire and Glyndwr grow up in poverty, with 2,270 children in the constituency directly affected by the limit.

Introduced by George Osborne in 2017, the two-child benefit cap limited Child Tax Credit and Universal Credit payments to the first two children in a family.

It meant that most households received no additional support for a third or subsequent child born after April 2017.

The policy was intended to cut welfare spending, and the Institute for Fiscal Studies estimates it has saved around 3.6bn a year. The Conservatives and supporters of the cap argue that it encourages parents to consider the financial impact of having more children.

However the chancellor faced sustained pressure from backbench Labour MPs, including Mr Witherden, and dozens of charities who say that policy has forced too many children to live in poverty.

Steve Witherden MP campaigned over the three weeks prior to the budget for the fair taxation of wealth, the restoration of Local Housing Allowance, and the lifting of the two-child limit in full.

Steve Witherden MP commented: This is the difference Labour in government makes. The 2,270 children in my constituency affected by the limit will have a brighter future after today.

This will be a government that goes down in history as one that reduces child poverty. That means fewer teachers buying nutrigrain bars out of their own money, like I used to, and less talent wasted with pupils too hungry to learn.

I have been campaigning hard for the lifting of the limit, paid for by the fairer taxation of wealth. This is a budget which does just that.

While it is not the decisive shifting of the tax burden away from work and onto wealth that I would like to see, it is certainly a budget that makes the wealthiest pay a fairer share.
North Wales emergency services unite for cathedral carol service

The regions emergency services will come together next month for their Christmas carol service.

Hosted by North Wales Police, Welsh Ambulance Service and the North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, the event will take place at Bangor Cathedral on Monday 8 December at 7.30pm.

During the evening, there will be performances from the North Wales Police Choir and Seindorf Beaumaris Band, along with readings by representatives of the emergency services and well-known carols for the congregation to sing.

Chief Constable Amanda Blakeman of North Wales Police said: I am looking forward to joining colleagues, partners and friends for this special occasion to start off the Christmas celebrations.

This annual service is one of the highlights of the festive period, not only for the emergency services, but also for the community who turn out to support us.

We hope to collect as much money as possible on the evening which will be donated to this years chosen charity  Prostate Cancer UK, supporting the vital work they do to help those affected by the disease.

A warm welcome is extended to all to what I am sure will be a wonderful evening.

Admission is free and proceeds from the collection will go to Prostate Cancer UK. Free refreshments will be available at the back of the cathedral following the service.
News and commentary on organized crime, street crime, white collar crime, cyber crime, sex crime, crime fiction, crime prevention, espionage and terrorism.
Powys Council to Object to North-East Wales National Park Proposal

Councillors will be asked to agree that Powys County Council (PCC) formally objects to proposals for a new national park in north-east Wales, which includes a sliver of Powys.

The consultation on the proposed Glyndwr National Park, which is being run by Natural Resources Wales (NRW), will finish on Monday, December 8.

The council will hold a meeting on Thursday, December 4, and councillors will receive a report on the detailed objection which is set to be submitted on their behalf by Council Leader Cllr Jake Berriman (Liberal Democrat  Llandrindod North).

Powys councillors from all across the political spectrum have been steadfast in their opposition to the national park proposal since it was first revealed in 2023.

But results from the previous consultation held on draft proposals last year show that this is a minority view.

This is because 52 per cent of people and organisations who responded to the consultation are in favour of the national park, 44 per cent were against and four per cent dont know.

In September, modified proposals were revealed which show that much of the potential park area in Powys has been taken out.

Originally, the plan was for Llanfyllin to be the southern gateway for the park.

But the revised proposal sees Llanfyllin, along with Meifod, Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant, and the surrounding area, taken out of the proposal.

The new proposal would see the parks southern boundary at A458 road at Llangadfan. Lake Vyrnwy would be within the national park as would Llansilin and Llangedwyn to the east of Llanrhaeadr-ym Mochnant.

In the objection document, Cllr Berriman states: Having considered the evidence, PCC writes to formally object to the proposed designation of the Glyndwr National Park under the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949, as applied in Wales.

The proposal does not meet key statutory tests and raises significant practical concerns for communities and planning authorities.

For these reasonsinsufficient natural beauty, poor accessibility, and disproportionate socio-economic impactsthe proposed designation does not align with the intent of the Act or Welsh Governments sustainable development principles.

It is essential that more detailed assessments are carried out on the cumulative impacts on housing, rural economies and resilience, and on local governance, drawing on lessons from other National Parks both within Wales and the wider United Kingdom.

Alternative mechanisms, such as strengthening the existing National Landscape (AONB) designation, would better achieve conservation and community objectives without imposing the rigid framework of National Park status and so impose disproportionate socio-economic costs.

The document details issues that could include delays to the replacement Powys Local Development Plan (LDP) that the council is working on  as well as the loss of money made in planning fees.

The papers show that last year Powys council made 28,270 from 72 planning applications that came from the area.

There is also scepticism around the economic benefits that an influx of tourists could bring to the area.

Data from Bannau Brycheiniog National Park is used to say that day trippers go there for a brief visit: not staying and often spending little in the local economy.

The council also claims that the pressure would be put on housing with an expected increase in second homes and holiday lets if it is created.

NRW programme manager, Ash Pearce said: This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to protect nature, support communities, and shape a better future for this stunning part of Wales.

With the right approach, a new National Park could bring real benefits for people, wildlife and the local economy.

To have your say visit: https://ymgynghori.cyfoethnaturiol.cymru/north-east-gogledd-ddwyrain/proposed-national-park-statutory-consultation-2025/

By Elgan Hearn  BBC Local Democracy Reporter
This year's conference, themed Accelerating EnterpriseLocal Government Collaborative Innovation for Green Transition, featured a rich program: an opening and plenary session, two key events, one technical exchange activity, and six thematic meetings. Additional activities included guided tours of Energy Valley, project roadshows, and closed-door exchanges.

The opening ceremony and plenary session, held on the first day, brought together energy industry leaders from China and abroad to explore applied innovation, ecosystem development, and cross-sector collaboration. Major deliverables released at the event included the Global Energy Transition Report 2025 and the Beijing Future Science City Energy Valley Industrial Development White Paper 2025.

Two spotlight events  the Enterprise-Local Government Cooperation Forum and the Energy Valley High-Quality Development Conference  focused on deepening collaboration among enterprises, universities, financial institutions, and local governments. These sessions aimed to drive coordinated innovation and accelerate the rise of Energy Valley as a globally recognized energy innovation hub.

The conference featured a technical exchange activity that adopted a hybrid indoor-outdoor format. Fifteen renowned domestic and international enterprises were invited to showcase their latest innovations in green energy transition and digital technology. The indoor section highlighted the integration of energy with digital and AI technologies, while the outdoor exhibits featured hydrogen-powered robot dogs and two-wheelers, hydrogen production and refueling equipment, and drones for power equipment inspection.

The conference venue, the Energy Valley of Future Science City, is tasked with becoming a globally influential innovation hub in the energy sector and a core zone for Beijing's advanced energy industry. It has distinctive strengths in developing the advanced energy industry, including abundant innovation resources, comprehensive industrial elements, well-established enterprise-friendly policies, and high-quality supporting services. Changping District will leverage Future Science City as a pivotal platform to transform the Energy Valley into a source of technological innovation, a new highland for industrial development, and a demonstration zone for green transition in the advanced energy field. Changping District warmly welcomes global talent, especially experts, entrepreneurs, and investors in the energy sector, to the Future Science City for exchanges, field visits, and investment opportunities. Let us join hands to build Future Science City and contribute our wisdom and strength to accelerating Beijing's development as an international sci-tech innovation hub.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2833774/2025_Energy_Transition_Conference.jpg

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2833775/Outdoor_Exhibition_Zone.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2833773/Beijing_Future_Science_City_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Beijing Future Science City Administrative Committee
Officers responded around 5:20 a.m. to a report of a man who appeared to be dead with a gunshot wound in the parking lot of an apartment complex at 920 Continental Loop, S.E., near Louisiana Blvd. and Gibson Blvd. Pictured is a bullet casing at the scene.. Roberto E. Rosales for the Albuquerque Journal Roberto E. Rosales

Officers responded around 5:20 a.m. to a report of a man who appeared to be dead with a gunshot wound in the parking lot of an apartment complex at 920 Continental Loop, S.E., near Louisiana Blvd. and Gibson Blvd. Roberto E. Rosales for the Albuquerque Journal Roberto E. Rosales

Officers responded around 5:20 a.m. to a report of a man who appeared to be dead with a gunshot wound in the parking lot of an apartment complex at 920 Continental Loop, S.E., near Louisiana Blvd. and Gibson Blvd. Pictured are criminalistic investigators gathering evidence at the scene. Roberto E. Rosales for the Albuquerque Journal Roberto E. Rosales

Police are investigating after a man was found dead in Southeast Albuquerque.

Albuquerque Police Department spokesperson Gilbert Gallegos said police responded sometime before 5:30 a.m. Friday after receiving a report that a man with a gunshot wound was dead in the parking lot of the Warren Sandia apartments, near Louisiana and Gibson.

"First responders confirmed the man was deceased," Gallegos wrote in the release.

Homicide detectives are investigating. Gallegos did not give additional details and said more information would be released at a later time.
By Paul Sweeney the Pension Scams Action Group Intelligence Business Lead, TPR As we launch our new Pledge campaign, Paul Sweeney reviews the significant progress industry has made so far, what still needs to be done and the way ahead. Pension fraud can be devastating. In one hit, a lifetime of savings can be wiped out. And as our latest analysis indicates, fraudsters often target victims at a time of life when they may have little or no chance to recover their finances. Ensuring savers get the message their pensions could be at risk  and what they can do to stay safe  is critical. Thats why we and our Pension Scams Action Group (PSAG) partner, the Money and Pensions Service (MaPS), are taking part in BBC Scam Safe this week (24-30 November). The BBCs nine-stop nationwide TV roadshow and week of programming aims to inform the public about fraud and how to protect themselves. Taking part in the roadshow helps us and MaPS to reach savers directly, and alongside our broader ongoing media and campaign activity, helps keep pension fraud on the public and media radar. But industry has a critical role to play in warning and protecting savers. Trustees and administrators are the first line of defence and best positioned to reach their members. Analysis identifies those most at risk Reporting suspicions to Action Fraud is a key principle of the Pledge  providing the vital intelligence we and our PSAG partners need to identify and disrupt emerging threats. Through our ongoing close analysis of reports to Action Fraud as part of our wider partnership with City of London Police to tackle fraud, we have now enhanced our profile of those savers most at risk. The analysis, has revealed that pension savers over 55 are at a higher risk of being scammed. Fraudsters are ruthless and nobody is immune. They will target anyone, which is why industry must strengthen their security and urge their members to be vigilant. By uniting in our commitment to adopt good anti-scam practices, we can drive progress to better protect savers. The Pledge  five years of progress Thats why we have updated the Pledge to Combat Pension Scams and launched a new campaign, calling on those who have not engaged with the Pledge to do so now. We are also urging those who have signed up to go one step further and self-certify they are turning their commitment into action. Launched with a clear mission to unite the pensions industry against fraud, the Pledge has made great strides towards its goal in the last five years. Its based on simple principles drawn from the Pension Scams Industry Groups Code of Best Practice. Over 650 schemes and organisations have now joined us by pledging and/or self-certifying, helping to better protect 31.5 million memberships. Adoption of the Pledge has even spread beyond our remit, bringing the total memberships protected to 43 million  around 44% of pension savers. Thats real progress. But theres more to do. We need the pensions industry to be 100% united in the fight against fraud. Evolving to meet new challenges The Pledge has not stood still. It continues to evolve in response to your feedback. Weve clarified the wording of the self-certification stage and simplified the reporting process by making Action Fraud the single avenue. Weve also worked with partners to improve the reporting journey, including our secondment of a TPR intelligence expert to CoLP to analyse reports to Action Fraud  a partnership continuing into 2026. Next year, we will work with industry to further improve the Pledge. There will also be a webinar in the spring which will help educate industry on scams and further promote the Pledge. Join us. Make the pledge today.
After DC Shooting, US Orders Fresh Review of Green Cards Issued to Immigrants From 19 Countries 2

The Trump administration has announced a rigorous re-examination of all Green Cards issued to immigrants from 19 countries of concern, following the shooting of two National Guard service members in Washington, DC, by an Afghan national earlier this week.

US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Director Joseph Edlow said President Donald Trump had directed a full-scale review of Green Cards issued to immigrants from these nations, noting the safety of Americans remains the administrations top priority.

The American people will not bear the cost of the prior administrations reckless resettlement policies, Edlow said in a post on X, adding that the new policy guidance applies immediately to all pending and future requests filed on or after November 27, 2025.

The new rules allow USCIS to weigh negative, country-specific factors when vetting immigrants from the 19 countries, which include Afghanistan, Iran, Cuba, Somalia, Yemen, Libya, Myanmar, Haiti and Venezuela. These nations were previously included in a travel ban issued by Trump in June.

The move follows Wednesdays shooting that left US Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, dead, and US Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, critically injured. The accused, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, arrived in the US under the Biden-era refugee programme Operation Allies Welcome, meant for Afghans fleeing after the Talibans 2021 takeover.

Edlow said the updated policy will help USCIS determine whether an immigrant poses a public safety or national security threat, accusing the Biden administration of eroding crucial vetting safeguards over four years.

Trump, calling the shooting a terrorist attack, claimed many Afghan arrivals were brought in unvetted and vowed to remove individuals he deemed dangerous.

USCIS said the guidance follows the administrations earlier halt on Afghan refugee resettlement and further strengthens vetting procedures to prevent similar incidents.
Bombay HC Questions Delay in Disha Salian Death Inquiry: "How Long Will Police Keep Probing?" 2

The Bombay High Court on Thursday questioned the prolonged delay in the investigation into the death of celebrity manager Disha Salian, asking how long the Mumbai Police intended to continue its inquiry.

Salian, who had worked with several Bollywood personalities, died on June 8, 2020, after falling from the 14th floor of a residential building in Malad, north Mumbai. The police had registered an Accidental Death Report (ADR) following the incident.

A division bench of Justices A.S. Gadkari and R.R. Bhonsale observed that even after five years, the police had yet to determine whether the death was a case of suicide or culpable homicide. Why is the inquiry still ongoing? Someone has died  all you have to ascertain is whether it was a suicide or culpable homicide, the bench remarked after Public Prosecutor Mankhunwar Deshmukh informed the court that the inquiry was still underway.

Deshmukh said the probe was being conducted minutely to rule out all possibilities.

Dishas father, Satish Salian, had filed a petition earlier this year seeking a CBI investigation, alleging that his daughter was raped and murdered, and claiming a political cover-up to shield influential individuals. He also sought the registration of an FIR against Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aditya Thackeray.

The prosecutor, however, told the court that both Satish and his wife had earlier told investigators they had no suspicion or doubt about anyones involvement, questioning the credibility of the new allegations raised after five years.

The bench also asked why the police had not shared copies of statements and basic investigation documents with Dishas father. He is the father of the victim. Any document that is legally permissible can be handed over to him, the judges said, directing the police to clarify their stance by December 11 and to produce the post-mortem report before the court.

Meanwhile, Aditya Thackeray has filed an application to intervene in the case, terming the petition false, frivolous, and politically motivated.

The court will hear the matter further on December 11, when the police are expected to present their report and explain the reasons for the prolonged inquiry.
McDonalds is launching a new Disney-themed Happy Meal to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Disneyland Resort.

One of the biggest collectible Happy Meal toy lines is launching on Dec. 2, with 70 toys total, organized into pairs. The toys feature characters from Star Wars, Marvel, Pixar and others, plus classic figures like Mickey and Minnie Mouse.

Once customers receive the Happy Meal, they can scan a QR code to virtually explore parts of Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. It shows a maze to collect in-game items and characters digitally.
Tony Germano, an actor featured in Netflix and Nickelodeon projects, is dead after a fatal fall. He was 55.

The actor died on Wednesday at his home in Brazil while doing repairs, according to reports.

It is with deep sorrow that we confirm the passing of actor and voice artist Tony Germano on the morning of Wednesday, November 26. Tony suffered a fall at his residence and, unfortunately, did not survive his injuries, Germanos rep told PEOPLE in a statement.

The Brazilian is known for Netflix shows like Go, Dog, Go! as well as Nickelodeons Nicky, Ricky, Dicky & Dawn and Disneys live-action Beauty and the Beast, according to Jam Press.

We kindly ask for respect and understanding during this painful time for his family, friends, and colleagues, the statement continued. Tony leaves behind a legacy of dedication, generosity and immense talent that touched everyone who had the privilege of working with him. His absence will be deeply felt.

Germanos work on stage included stints in The Phantom of the Opera, Miss Saigon and Jekyll & Hyde. He also recently made appearances in 2025s Labyrinth of Lost Boys and in 2023s An Unforgettable Year: Autumn.


A UAB physician who used AI to make hospital respirators safer may move abroad because of his parents problems with the U.S. immigration system.

Were kind of like passively sitting in this limbo state where they cant refuse us, because if they refuse, I can apply again. But also theyre not accepting us, said Dr. Abdulhakim Tlimat.

Tlimat is a critical care physician at UAB with a background in software engineering. Following the COVID-19 pandemic he invented an AI system for hospitals to remotely monitor patients on respirators. Hospitals in other states are interested in using the device, according to Dr. Tlimat.

He came to the country as a Syrian refugee, with his sister in 2013. In 2019 he became a naturalized citizen. In 2020, he applied to bring his parents to the U.S. through a visa program.

Yet Tlimats parents have been in administrative limbo for years. He is considering moving to Abu Dhabi, where he helped his parents relocate, due to the dangers of staying in Syria, unless he can sort out his parents U.S. visas.

If we were to lose him, this would not only stagnate our current project, but it would drastically impact UABs ability to remain at the cutting edge of AI integration into healthcare systems, said Raymond Wade, a professor of medicine at UAB. He said Tlimat is one of a handful of practicing physicians in the United States who are also experts in artificial intelligence.

Dr. Tlimat's parents have been waiting since 2020 for U.S. visas Dr. Abdulhakim Tlimat

Mechanical ventilators, like the ones used for people with severe COVID-19, can cause harm to patients, especially if the ventilator settings are not right, said Tlimat. His AI system tracks ventilators for patients to make sure the machines stay within safe parameters for patients diaphragm and lung ventilation.

Tlimat said his life feels like a roller coaster due to his parents situation.

In 2022, Tlimats mother had an interview for her visa. Afterwards, he said he could not get an update on her application. The typical wait time for a parent visa for a citizen is 17 months, according to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

This September, five years after applying, his father, also a physician, had an interview for his visa. At his fathers interview, Tlimat asked about his mothers application. An agent told him his mothers case was held up in Washington. Tlimat contacted his representatives in Congress for help, he said, but nothing happened.

Tlimats father had COVID-19 about 6 months ago, and his lungs are not healing normally.

Im gonna just leave everything behind, said Tlimat, about his work helping patients in the U.S. When my dad has something wrong with him, I cant even help him.
Some people watch birds. Some people watch bird feeders - and tabulate which of our feathered friends congregate. In Alabama, you might be surprised at the result.

Heres a list of the most common birds seen near feeders at 53 sites in the Yellowhammer State, according to the Cornell Lab of Ornithologys Project FeederWatch. Birds are ranked by the percent of sites visited from Nov. 8 to Nov. 21. Ties are broken by the average group size when seen, any further ties were not broken.

The most commonly seen birds near feeders in Alabama:

Northern Cardinal- Sites visited Nov. 8 to Nov. 21: 89%- Average group size: 2.87. Alabama had the third highest number of any state in the study with Northern Cardinals visiting 89% of the feeders watched.

Carolina Chickadee- Sites visited Nov. 8 to Nov. 21: 87%- Average group size: 1.78. Alabama was the second most visited state for this little chickadee with 87% of feeder sites visited.

Carolina Wren- Sites visited Nov. 8 to Nov. 21: 68%- Average group size: 1.33. Alabama had the 4th highest percentage of feeder sites visited by this bird at 68%.

White-throated Sparrow- Sites visited Nov. 8 to Nov. 21: 55%- Average group size: 1.8. Alabama had this sparrow sighted at 55% of feeders watched, placing the state at number 5.

Brown-headed Nuthatch- Sites visited Nov. 8 to Nov. 21: 42%- Average group size: 1.7. Alabama is king when it comes to nuthatches - at least those spotted near bird feeders. A whopping 42% of the observed feeders got visits from Brown-headed Nuthatches in Alabama. It is not just your imagination.

Northern Mockingbird- Sites visited Nov. 8 to Nov. 21: 36%- Average group size: 1.15. For this bird, not good to kill, according to a celebrated Alabama author - Alabama ranks number 4, with 36 percent of feeders in the state getting a visit.

Chipping Sparrow- Sites visited Nov. 8 to Nov. 21: 32%- Average group size: 2.12. With 32% of Alabama feeders getting a visit, the state ranks number 3 for this sparrow.

Brown Thrasher- Sites visited Nov. 8 to Nov. 21: 23%- Average group size: 1.03. Alabama is number 2 for this bird, with 23 percent of feeders getting a visit.

Eastern Phoebe- Sites visited Nov. 8 to Nov. 21: 21%- Average group size: 1.04. Although many may have never heard of it, the Eastern Phoebe paid a visit to 21 percent of observed feeders in Alabama, leaving it tied with Florida and Oklahoma for number 3.

Project FeederWatch, a citizen science project where participants collect data on birds at their feeders, was founded in Ontario by Erica Dunn and the Long Point Bird Observatory in 1976. The project partnered with the Cornell Lab of Ornithology after 10 years to scale the project across the U.S. and Canada and now has over 20,000 participants.

The data Project FeederWatch collects is used by scientists to understand trends in bird populations. If you would like to participate as a FeederWatcher you can learn more about the project here.
The judge who always likes the results he reaches is a bad judge.  Antonin Scalia

As a litigator in the uber-left San Francisco Bay Area for three decades, I routinely witnessed left-leaning judges make up the law as they went along. One went so far as to say, I know what the law is, but I think... What constrained them a little was the fact that it was considered humiliating to be reversed by a higher court. Todays leftist judges no longer operate under that constraint. Their goal isnt justice; its to interfere in the political process, precisely as Judge Robert Yates predicted in 1787.

Eleven months into the second Trump presidency, its become old news that leftist federal judges at the district court level (that is, judges appointed under Article III of the Constitution) are blocking every single administrative initiative. My guesstimate is that roughly 80% of them have been reversed at the appellate or Supreme Court level. Significantly, these reversals havent been over subtle legal points. Theyve come about for gross errors that first-year law students wouldnt make.

Image created using AI.

In the first half of 2025, the Supreme Court repeatedly batted down rogue rulings that dont even reach the merits of a case but are simply intended to run out the clock. Three examples will suffice:

Trump v. CASA, Inc. was a Supreme Court decision overruling district court judges in Maryland, Washington, and Massachusetts, all of whom had issued nationwide preliminary injunctions to prevent Trump from blocking birthright citizenship.

In the CHNV Parole Program Termination matter, both the district court in Massachusetts and the First Circuit immediately blocked the Trump administrations order ending the Cuba-Haiti-Nicaragua-Venezuela parole program. The Supreme Court reversed this stay on proceedings.

In National Assn. of Diversity Officers in Higher Education v. Trump, the Supreme Court reversed rulings by a Maryland district court and the Fourth Circuit staying Trumps crackdown on DEI programs.

In normal times, these Supreme Court rulings would have caused other district court judges to reconsider reflexively ruling against Trump, but that hasnt been the case. Instead, theyve increased the pace of rulings that effectively nullify the Executive branchs authority.

Earlier this month, a federal judge issued an order telling Trump that he must remove the National Guard from Washington D.C. Also this month, a Rhode Island judge ordered Trump to pay SNAP benefits during the shutdown, even though the existing law prevented the administration from doing so. The judge didnt care about the law.

And then, of course, theres infamous Judge Boasberg and his endless rulings blocking Trump from deporting violent illegal immigrants. Politico has noticed the judicial trend to protect illegal aliens. Its reported that over 100 judges have ruled against Trumps efforts to deport these people.

In the new reign of judges, America is now controlled by unelected, often foreign-born judges who have effectively usurped the presidents executive authority. This is a worldwide phenomenon. In Israel, a radical left judiciary will do anything to stop Benjamin Netanyahu. In Brazil, a radical left judiciary ensured that a leftist won the last election, and sent the actual winner, Jair Bolsonaro, to prison for 27 yearswhich is what the Democrats had hoped would happen to Trump after 2020. And in England, the Labour Party, at the direction of a man who is both a British and Guyanese citizen, plans to end the jury system in most criminal cases, a system that has been in place since the Magna Carta of 1215.

But how could this happen in America? What about the Constitution and the balance of powers between the three branches? How can the judiciary contend that it is the final arbiter of all Executive branch actions? As it happens, in 1787, looking at the Founders ideas for the judiciaryideas that were then incorporated into the ConstitutionJudge Robert Yates had the answer:

The supreme court under this constitution would be exalted above all other power in the government, and subject to no control. [snip] The judges in England are under the control of the legislature, for they are bound to determine according to the laws passed under them. But the judges under this constitution will control the legislature, for the supreme court are authorised in the last resort, to determine what is the extent of the powers of the Congress. They are to give the constitution an explanation, and there is no power above them to set aside their judgment. The framers of this constitution appear to have followed that of the British, in rendering the judges independent, by granting them their offices during good behavior, without following the constitution of England, in instituting a tribunal in which their errors may be corrected; and without adverting to this, that the judicial under this system have a power which is above the legislative, and which indeed transcends any power before given to a judicial by any free government under heaven. [snip] 1st. There is no power above them that can correct their errors or control their decisions. The adjudications of this court are final and irreversible, for there is no court above them to which appeals can lie, either in error or on the merits. [snip] 2nd. They cannot be removed from office or suffer a diminution of their salaries, for any error in judgment [due] to want of capacity. [snip] 3rd. The power of this court is in many cases superior to that of the legislature.

Yates was deeply concerned about the power of unelected judges to control the peoples elected representatives. Even he did not foresee that the judges would one day arrogate to themselves the authority of the entire executive branch.

When Nayib Bukele became president of El Salvador, he took the reins of a completely broken country, one wracked by crime and dysfunction. He turned it around with remarkable speed, based on two principles: The first is that you can make your country safer by incarcerating criminals, even if that means mass incarcerations. The bad guys are in prison, and the law-abiding citizens live safe, happy, and productive lives.

The second is that you must have an honest judiciary. If you dont, your country will become a kritarchythat is, a dictatorship of judges:

If you dont impeach the corrupt judges, you CANNOT fix the country.



They will form a cartel (a judicial dictatorship) and block all reforms, protecting the systemic corruption that put them in their seats. https://t.co/crNZDuj0Kf  Nayib Bukele (@nayibbukele) February 26, 2025

This article has been edited since publication.
TAIPEI, Nov. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- As Moore's Law slows, advanced packaging has become the critical lever driving breakthroughs in AI chip performance, according to DIGITIMES chief semiconductor analyst Tony Huang. Speaking with DIGITIMES Asia, Huang emphasized that heterogeneous integration is now as pivotal to system performance as transistor scaling once was.

Without advanced packaging, moving from 28nm to A16 would deliver roughly an 80-fold increase in compute density per reticle area, Huang said. With it, the gain rises to around 320 times.

Credit: Digitimes Credit: Digitimes Source from: DIGITIMES ASIA

Bottlenecks driving innovation

He explained that AI workloads have exposed multiple technical bottleneckswhat he calls the new "walls": the memory wall, addressed through high-bandwidth memory (HBM); the I/O and communication walls, tackled by reducing latency through chiplet and interposer technologies; the power and thermal walls, mitigated through power efficiency and thermal management; and the yield and fabrication walls, eased by smaller chiplets with higher yields.

Technologies such as 3D SoC stacking, hybrid bonding, and co-packaged optics (CPO) are now key enablers, he added.

Market growth outpacing the semiconductor industry

Huang forecasts that advanced packaging for AI data center chips will grow at a compound annual rate of 45.5% from 2024 to 2030, far outpacing the overall semiconductor industry's 8.7% and the broader packaging and testing sector's 9.5%.

"2.5D CoWoS-type solutions still dominate and will account for more than half of the total market," he said. "Their share will gradually decline from 69% to 58% as 3D and hybrid approaches mature."

He noted that the industry is transitioning from 2.5D to 3.5D packaging, citing AMD's MI300X AI accelerator, which combines 3D SoIC and 2.5D CoWoS and is manufactured by TSMC. Broadcom is also developing a 3.5D accelerator using a face-to-face structure, he said.

Taiwan's dominant position

"Taiwanese companies accounted for about 77% of the global data center AI packaging market in 2024," Huang said. "Even with intensifying competition from Intel, Samsung, and new US and Chinese ecosystems, Taiwan's share is expected to stay near 70% by 2030."

If HBM assemblystill primarily done in South Koreais excluded, Taiwan's market share reached 90% in 2024, he added.

Defining the landscape

Huang noted that DIGITIMES defines data center AI chips in three categories: AI server CPUs; AI accelerators, including GPUs from NVIDIA and AMD, and custom AI chips like Google's TPU and AWS Trainium; and AI networking chips such as switch ICs from Broadcom and DPUs from NVIDIA.

CPO, or co-packaged optics, falls within the AI networking segment and is also considered advanced packaging.

"TSMC's hybrid bonding approach integrates electrical ICs and photonic ICs into a single optical-electronic module," Huang explained.

China's self-sufficiency push

China, meanwhile, is pushing for over 70% self-sufficiency in data center AI chips. Key domestic players include SMIC (foundry), CXMT (HBM2E memory), and SJ SEMI (2.5D CoWoS-type packaging).

By 2030, Huang estimates that Chinese AI chips could represent more than 15% of global shipments, though their revenue share may reach only 1012% due to lagging technology.

"To close the gap, Chinese vendors are adopting large-scale clustering and optical interconnect approaches," he said.

"For example, Huawei's next-generation AI chipsexpected around 2028will roughly match the performance of Nvidia's H200 from 2023, but China compensates with scale and software optimization."

The new axis of progress

Advanced packaging, with its projected 45.5% compound annual growth rate, represents more than an engineering trendit's the new axis of progress for the AI era.

"If transistor scaling was the vertical climb of Moore's Law, advanced packaging is the horizontal expansion," Huang concluded. "It's what allows AI chips to break physical limits and deliver the performance needed for the data-driven world ahead."

Tony Huang will deliver a keynote speech at a DIGITIMES webinar on advanced packaging on December 5, 2025. This interview offers a preview of his insightsmore details will be shared during the event.

SOURCE DIGITIMES ASIA
The Federal Republic is on an economic crash course. A return to a market economy seems impossible as long as an oversized party cartel rigidly defends the course of the green transformation. The relaxation of the moral contact ban with the AfD by the Association of Family Businesses could now expose the ideological devastation of this path.

Marie-Christine Ostermann has been president of the business association Die Familienunternehmer since 2023. In recent days, the 47-year-old entrepreneur has achieved something many observers of Germanys economic decline have been waiting for: she has effectively abolished the contact ban against the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, a ban that the political-media establishment has enforced with iron discipline.

Return to Open Discourse

At its core, Ostermann decided something that should be self-evident in a parliamentary democracy: a return to open dialogue. In early October, she invited AfD parliamentarians for the first time to a parliamentary evening hosted by her association -- together with representatives of other parties.

This is how things normally work when an association claims political neutrality for itself. Ostermann justified this step by explaining that the strategy of total exclusion had not weakened the AfD. The party must now be confronted with arguments, not isolation.

This is actually a banality: the AfD -- especially in economic policy -- offers, alongside the radically socialist positions of the Left Party, the only order-policy counterposition to the eco-socialist course pursued by the federal government and its predecessor coalitions.

Criticism From Within

Reflexively, the large state chapter of North Rhine-Westphalia distanced itself from its president. Especially in Dusseldorf, a red-green ideological logjam prevails, embodied by CDU state leader Hendrik Wust, who has shown like few others that the Christian Democrats have long been under the influence of the green transformation agenda. They act as ideological absorption bodies for Brussels Green Deal, which they have translated into political action since the Merkel years -- to the delight of the Left.

Whether debt policies, the heating law, the hydrogen ramp-up, the combustion-engine ban, or the absurd extortion over CO2 emissions -- the CDU/CSU is always on board when it comes to strangling the economy and making the citizen pay.

Ostermann now stands alone in the firestorm of a toxic debate that, on the surface, aims to sterilize the AfD as a growing opposition but, beneath the surface, attempts to suppress the truth about the failed megaproject of green transformation.

First Cracks in the Foundation

At least the Central Association of the German Baking Trade and the Family Businesses Land and Forest (FABLF) also spoke out on Wednesday in favor of an open approach to the AfD. Both organizations stressed that economic associations must act impartially and engage with all democratically-elected parties in order to properly represent the interests of their members -- an aspect often ignored in the debate over the political firewall against the AfD.

Large parts of German business are too deeply entangled in the subsidy machinery of green patronage economics to face the truth: green central planning is destroying the foundation of the economy. The doctrine of pure market economy would be the truly ethical position for politically neutral organizations. Everything else leads to corporatism, extraction mentality, and entrepreneurial dependence on state redistribution.

Excluding the AfD from economic-policy discourse cannot be justified even by simple democratic principles. More than a quarter of voters would now cast their ballots for the party -- regardless of the pompous moralizing of the federal president or the moral front-line speeches of the chancellor.

Well-Founded Criticism

A mere glance at Germanys permanent recession, accelerated deindustrialization, and the associated capital flight away from an overpriced, overregulated business environment shows that Ostermanns move was years overdue. Her courageous action mercilessly exposes the failures of Germanys economic elites. For years, not only corporate leaders but also representatives of business associations and the economic press have remained silent -- about the true background and scale of the crisis.

The golden calf of man-made climate change through CO2 emissions was never allowed to be questioned -- until President Donald J. Trump finally dealt the narrative its death blow, burying the era of eco-socialist mismanagement, at least in the United States.

Only in recent weeks have the first critical voices emerged -- from the automotive industry with Ola Kallenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group; from the chemical sector with Christian Kullmann, CEO of Evonik Industries; and even from the trade unions, such as IG BCE under Michael Vassiliadis. All of them, for the first time, have taken aim at the Green Deal and centrally planned green transformation in view of the catastrophic state of German industry.

Yet even they avoided, at all costs, discussing the corresponding AfD positions, which stand diametrically opposed to the policies of Brussels and Berlin. The AfD advocates market liberalization, a return to the social market economy, and an end to grotesque climate regulation.

Maximum Reality Distortion

In the coming weeks, we will see how the political-media establishment will attempt to defend the hitherto almost immunized green transformation with all remaining media firepower. The withdrawals of Rossmann and Vorwerk from the Association of Family Businesses show how great the fear of media stigmatization runs in German business circles.

And as if anticipating it, Verdi chairman Frank Werneke opened the hunt for dissidents on Thursday morning with a bizarre and irresponsible historical comparison.

Together with the DGB, he warned that Die Familienunternehmer now risk drifting to the Right. Werneke invoked Adolf Hitlers secret 1933 meeting with industrialists -- the decisive turning point toward the end of the Weimar Republic.

One must resist the beginnings, Werneke argued, sharply condemning the end of the contact ban toward the AfD, which he considers deeply anti-democratic and dangerous for both Germanys economic prospects and social cohesion in Europe. He called on all business and employer associations to take a firm stand against any form of rapprochement with the AfD.

The End of Immunization

With this, Verdi has chosen the sharpest rhetorical weapon -- placing Ostermann and Die Familienunternehmer directly in the shadow of right-wing fascism.

But Werneke & Co. will soon face a surprise when they realize that the national-conservative movement in Europe -- whether Fidesz in Hungary, Giorgia Meloni in Italy, or the new Polish government -- is gaining significant wind in its sails. A growing number of EU citizens see a return to national sovereignty and opposition to climate policy and the expanding Brussels surveillance apparatus as a path out of the current crisis. And many union members are likely to feel the same way.

Verdis frantic defensive line shows where the discourse is headed in the coming weeks. With maximum media force, the strategy of excluding undesirable political opinions will be defended -- solely to avoid an honest reckoning with the failed eco-socialist policies that have plunged the country into its worst economic crisis since the end of World War II.

But now the train has left the station. Hundreds of thousands have lost their livelihoods in recent years -- all in the name of the green god, whose following is fading. And politics will not succeed in rehabilitating the narrative of man-made, CO2-based climate change to suppress, once again, both the dialogue with the AfD and the critical debate on the Green Deal.

Image: Die Familienunternehmer
The holiday season makes demands. It demands that people walk into living rooms filled with memories, to hear familiar voices, and to remember that the past feels warm because it is shared. Yet this year, political fractures sit heavier than usual.

Molly McNearney, Jimmy Kimmels wife and the executive producer, as well as co-head writer, for his late-night show, made clear why.

Image created using AI.

On the We Can Do Hard Things podcast, McNearney revealed that she cut ties with family members who supported Donald Trump. She explained, It hurts me so much because of the personal relationship I now have where my husband is out there fighting this man Trump, and to me, them voting for Trump is them not voting for my husband and me and our family.

McNearney later reflected that she emailed relatives before the 2024 election, pleading for them to reject Trump. She said, I have sent many emails to my family, like right before the election, saying, I am begging you. Here is the 10 reasons not to vote for this guy. Please do not. She received overwhelming silence or anger in return.

That silence speaks to a truth many Americans quietly live with. Loved ones sit across from each other yet struggle to recognize the world the other inhabits.

On his HBO program, Bill Maher argued that McNearneys approach reflected a growing purity test culture among the left. His words rang true: Ultimatums do not make people rethink their politics. They make people rethink you. Maher, a committed Democrat, shared his views on McNearneys list: Ten reasons. I can think of 100. But I would never present it to someone as an ultimatum.

Sasha Stone, at her website Awards Daily, confronted McNearney directly. She wrote, If Id stayed on your side, Molly, my entire career would not have been destroyed because I decided to vote for Trump in 2024. Youd probably agree with that  obviously you would. If you are willing to give up your family members over politics, then sure, whats the 26-year career of a woman-owned business to you?

This candid reflection captures the personal toll of liberal ideological conformity.

The research deepens this picture. A study from the American Enterprise Institute in April 2022 showed that 23 percent of very liberal Americans reported cutting off family communication over politics compared to 9 percent of very conservative Americans. Another AEI survey in June 2021 revealed that 45 percent of extreme liberals admitted to ending friendships due to politics, while 22 percent of extreme conservatives did the same.

The numbers arent opinions. They show one side far more eager to sever ties.

A national poll from September 2025 by The Argument, an online newsmagazine, reported that 40 percent of Kamala Harris voters saw it as acceptable to cut off family members over political disputes. Its sobering to consider that nearly half of one voting bloc sees relationships as disposable when politics intervene.

Consider all of this as families and friends gather again. They pass plates, share stories, and smile while avoiding certain subjects. Among lefties, long-lasting relationships often seem more disposable now. Its as if political identity has become a final test of loyalty. When that test is failed, ties are left to wither, and the relative or pal becomes a stranger.

Its brutal when bonds break. Its depressing when shared history cannot withstand a vote, a policy preference, or a partisan affiliation. Yet this is simply life playing out through human connection. Relationships, like every living thing, are born. They grow, they thrive, they decline, and, eventually, they die.

Trying to force one back to life cannot end well. Even if a dead relationship could be revived by niceties and false agreement, the result would resemble something grotesque. A zombie looks like a body, but it has no heartbeat, and it always causes problems. A revived relationship built on veiled resentment would be the same. It would lurch along, breeding tension and turning holidays into quiet battles beneath polite, but fake, smiles.

This is our country. These are our families and, perhaps, one-time friends. The long-held idea that Americans can agree to disagree does not hold like it used to. Accepting that ugly truth frees a person from illusions. While inviting on the surface, illusions soon enough pull one into a spiral of despair. What is no longer viable cannot be repaired by begging or scolding or persuasion, especially when delivered as an ultimatum.

This holiday season invites clarity. Life moves forward, as nature itself does. Holding onto the past is no more valuable than fools gold. Not everything broken can be fixed. Not every bond can survive the world we live in. When confronted with hard facts, the wise choice is acceptance.

The alternative looks nice, but its nightmarish.

Dr. Joseph Ford Cotto is the creator, host, and producer of News Sight, delivering sharp insights on the key events that shape our lives. He publishes Dr. Cottos Digest, sharing how business and the economy really impact us all. 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.
In July 2025, the Senate voted 99-1 to preserve state authority over AI regulation  but Washingtons push for centralized control hasnt stopped. As Congress debates AI laws and schools quietly test AI-driven emotional monitoring tools on students, one question rises above all others:

Will citizens still govern themselves  or will they be governed by algorithms?

AI regulation is not just legislation  it is the test of whether human judgment and state sovereignty can survive automation.

This is not theoretical: AI systems already shape what we see online, what may be said on major platforms, what we can buy  and increasingly, how we think  often without us noticing.

The framework of technocratic control is already in place  encompassing, but not limited to, climate orthodoxy, debt economics, and Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs). The debate over CBDCs has already raised concerns about programmable money and centralized control. But today, the frontier of governance has moved inward  into the realm of thought and judgment.

AI as Administration

The danger is not that AI will become human  but that humans will become machine-like. AI already performs the work that used to belong to human judgment. Modern AI-powered moderation tools now screen enormous volumes of user-generated content in real time  allowing platforms to flag or suppress posts almost instantly after submission. Research queries can be downranked or removed  not by editors, but by automated systems. This is not innovation. It is the automation of control.

On major platforms, shadow labeling quietly reduces the visibility of certain posts  not deleting them, but ensuring almost no one sees them. The content remains online, but it is effectively erased from public view. Googles Jigsaw  an open-source moderation tool intended to help platforms filter extremist or disallowed content  has tested systems that scan content as it is being written and warn users if it might violate recommended guidelines. Other tools can automatically downrank or flag such content the moment it is posted  preventing it from reaching a normal audience. This is not editorial judgment  it is automated pre-censorship.

Already:

Googles AI search suppresses dissenting content, including medical and climate research  a trend documented since at least 2010, when over 151,000 content removal requests were logged.

Governments now use AI tools to refine online censorship.

HR firms test AI sentiment analysis to detect employee compliance.

Schools piloted AI emotional tracking during COVID; some now use facial recognition for behavior monitoring.

Central Bank Digital Currency proposals discuss programmable money  spending permissions enforced by code.

I witnessed this suppression firsthand. When I asked AI probing questions about UN climate claims, it refused to mention the work of scientists who challenged the narrative  not because their research was disproven, but because it fell outside what the system labeled scientific consensus. The response was blunt: I cant provide content disputing the scientific consensus. AI did not debate  it filtered. That is not intelligence; it is administration.

And administration always raises the oldest political question:

Who defines consensus, and who benefits from enforcing it?

The Technocratic Ambition

Power is shifting from politics to programming  and the major actors are not hidden:

The World Economic Forum has publicly called for global AI governance and co-ordination across nations.

The UN has launched initiatives to treat AI governance as part of global sustainable-development policies.

The Federal Reserve itself has acknowledged using AI-based tools internally  and central banks, including those coordinated by the BIS, are evaluating AI for financial-system management  raising prospects of AI-managed currency and programmable money.

These are not theories. They are policy proposals  written in official documents.

The Constitutional Question

The debate over AI is no longer just technical  it is constitutional. Within the Republican Party, concern has emerged that federal agencies may seek to take authority away from the states. Some Republican lawmakers opposed a moratorium on state AI laws, arguing that Washington should not decide how every state must regulate technology.

In July 2025, the Senate voted 99-1 to strike a ten-year ban on state-level AI regulation. That vote was not a rejection of AI laws  it was a rejection of the idea that Washington could forbid the states from writing their own. It was a defense of federalism.

But pressure for centralization did not stop. In November 2025, House leaders tried to attach AI pre-emption to the National Defense Authorization Act  framing AI as a matter of federal security. Some Republican leaders signaled support, citing concerns over burdensome state regulations.

This raises a question older than the technology itself: Who should decide policy  Washingtons agencies  or the states and the people, as the Tenth Amendment affirms? The battle over AI is quickly becoming a test case for state sovereignty  and whether government automation is moving ahead without public consent.

What AI Cannot Do

AI can process data  but only humans perceive meaning. It can measure a sunset, but it cannot experience beauty. It can detect patterns, but it cannot care.

The technocratic view reduces mind to circuitry and conscience to software. But judgment is not calculation  it is responsibility. And when responsibility is outsourced to algorithms, freedom stops feeling like a right and begins to feel like an inconvenience. That is when we begin to hear the most dangerous phrase of all: Let the code decide.

The Faculty at Stake

What AI threatens most is the human faculty that has sustained free civilizations  discernment. AI offers convenience  but convenience can become quiet consent to control.

Discernment separates truth from illusion and consent from coercion. If citizens no longer author their own thoughts, political freedom will not disappear by force  it will disappear by automation.

The Real Question

AI already influences how we speak, research, shop, and even think. The question is no longer what can AI do?  but what will we stop doing for ourselves?

Technology can process data  but it cannot judge meaning. It can predict behavior  but it cannot understand purpose. That remains the responsibility of the human person  and the foundation of a free society.

What Freedom Requires

The solution is not only policy  it is character.

To remain free, we must:

Choose attention over addiction.

Keep the right to question alive.

Guard reality against engineered illusion.

Freedom depends on discernment. The Republic may not be taken  but is it in danger of being automated?

If we surrender judgment to algorithms, we may keep the language of liberty  but not its substance.

A machine may process data  but only a soul can defend liberty.

Mark Keenan is a former United Nations technical expert who writes on the intersection of science, finance, and public policy. He is the author of The Debt Machine, Climate CO Hoax, The War on Men, and Staying Human in the Age of AI. He publishes at markgerardkeenan.substack.com and comments on X at @TheMarkGerard.

Note to readers who purchased my book The War on Men: a limited number of early print copies were mistakenly released before the editorial process began. The current edition has been fully revised, edited, and professionally formatted. If you received an early draft copy, feel free to contact me via Substack  Ill gladly send you the corrected edition at no cost.

Image: Free image, Pixabay license.
The worlds largest cryptocurrency trading platform, Binance, has been accused, once again, of funding terrorism. This allegation can be found in a court filing made on behalf of the families of October 7 victims in a North Dakota venue:

The 284-page filing, submitted in federal court in North Dakota, claims the worlds largest crypto exchange deliberately failed to monitor inbound funds tied to Hamas, Hezbollah, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Among the 306 American plaintiffs are families of dual Israeli-American victims, including freed Hamas hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin and IDF soldier Itay Chen, who was killed while held by the group.

This new offense is not the companys first bout with criminal activity:

The crypto platform had already been subject to criminal enforcement actions by the Department of Justice in 2023, resulting in Binance admitting to charges of money laundering and paying more than $4 billion in fines  as well as a four-month prison sentence for [CEO Changpeng] Zhao.

How can the plaintiffs be so certain that Zhao not only knew what was occurring, but facilitated the activities? The court documents explain the circumstances:

Despite knowing Binance was required to comply with U.S. law, Zhao chose not to register the company with U.S. regulators; he chose not to comply with fundamental U.S. antimoney-laundering (AML) requirements; he chose not to implement and maintain an effective know-your-customer (KYC) system, which prevented effective transaction monitoring and allowed suspicious and criminal users to transact through Binance; and even when Binance employees detected suspicious transactions, Zhaos choices meant those transactions were not reported to U.S. authorities.

The potential for Zhao not knowing these requirements, as the CEO of the company, is near zero. The facts demonstrate that Binance has played a role in financing terrorist groups for several years. Per the NY Post, Binance served as a financial platform for more than just Hamas:

[T]he nearly 300-page complaint stated that Binances conduct was far more serious and pervasive than what the US government disclosed during those [earlier] proceedings  and that the company knowingly sent and received the equivalent of more than $1 billion to and from accounts and wallets controlled by the [foreign terror organizations] responsible for the October 7 Attacks. Those include Hamas, Hezbollah, Palestinian Islamic Jihad and Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

Now, just weeks ago, President Trump pardoned Zhao, explaining the reasoning that led to the pardon:

I dont know him. I dont believe Ive ever met him, Trump told reporters when news of the pardon leaked. He had a lot of support, and they said that what he did is not even a crime, it wasnt a crime that he was persecuted by the Biden administration and so I gave him a pardon at the request of a lot of very good people.

In response to questions about the presidents pardon of Zhao, the media attempted to drum up a corruption narrative, as Trumps sons also have a hand in the world of crypto, and had accepted donated software from Binance:

CBS News reported that Binance donated software to Trump family-linked World Liberty Financial, helping the firm launch a cryptocurrency. A source familiar with the arrangements said that without Zhaos involvement, the technology doesnt exist. Months later, an Emirati fund made a $2 billion investment in Binancepaid entirely in World Liberty cryptoturning the previously obscure digital currency into a major player.

Have these journalists considered that maybe the Emirati fund read the writing on the wall and wanted to do business with Trumps sons because theyre successful in their own right, apart from their dads political power? And, until the media applies the same scrutiny to all political powerhouse families, like the Bidens and the Clintons, this is all just noise.

But back to the matter at hand: Do we really want a company like Binance operating in our country?

Image: Public domain.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson recently declared that imprisoning violent criminals is racist and immoral.

Appearing at a news conference alongside Illinois Governor J.B. Big Pants Pritzker, Johnson opined that society needs to find ways of dealing with violent criminals that dont involve incarcerating them.

According to GatewwayPundit, the Less-Large One said, The addiction on jails and incarceration in this country, we have moved past that. It is racist. It is immoral. It is unholy and it is not the way to drive violence down. He added, We cannot incarcerate our way out of violence.

No, it is racist to clearly infer that minorities (blacks?) cannot help but commit acts of violence. It is immoral to let repeat violent offenders out where they can continue to murder, rape, rob, and assault innocent, law-abiding citizens. And it is unholy to believe otherwise, as Democrats are wont to do, routinely taking the side of violent criminals against American citizens.

Asserting that we cannot incarcerate our way out of violence is akin to saying that removing cancerous organs and tissue from our bodies wont help prolong our lives, or that we cannot eat our way out of starvation. It is obvious that both of these statements are false, or at least likely so. When criminals are incarcerated, they cannot commit crimes, at least not the murder, rape, robbery and assault of innocents. Period.

Period.

The Left has an insatiable desire to force others to believe  and parrot  outright lies. It is not hyperbole to say that this is an existential threat to society. Its propensity to aver that the most preposterous lies are facts, the most improbable impossible beliefs true, will wreak havoc on a nation. Putting people in prison will not reduce crime? Trans women are women? Trump colluded with Russia? The coronavirus came from a wet market/pangolin/but definitely not from the Wuhan virology lab, etc., etc. These notions, incessantly pushed by the mainstream media, are nothing but flat-out lies. And have proven to be nothing but flat-out lies.

But no one will be held accountable and similar lies and hoaxes will continue to be peddled  until Republicans grow a spine and become cis-male again. Or at least until they find their inner morality and purpose. Dont hold your breath. Non-MAGA Republicans favorite activity seems to be pre-emptively surrendering. This craven proclivity is as pathetic as it is dangerous. In fact, it, too, is a crime.

Image: Wikipedia // public domain
Well, Fani's case is history. Hopefully, the Trump team will send a bill to get some of the legal fees refunded. Talk about a miscarriage of justice brought to you by some who drank a bit too much of that TDS wine passed around Democrat circles.

The judge down in Georgia ended this mess just in time for us to give thanks on Thanksgiving Day. Here is the story:

A judge in Georgia dismissed the last pending criminal prosecution against President Trump on Wednesday, effectively ending efforts to hold him criminally responsible for attempts to overturn the 2020 election. The president has now seen three criminal cases against him dissolve since he was re-elected last year. Charges were also dropped against Mr. Trumps remaining co-defendants in the Georgia racketeering case, including Rudolph W. Giuliani, his former personal lawyer, and Mark Meadows, the former White House chief of staff. The Georgia case had been seen as one of the most serious legal threats to Mr. Trump, because state criminal convictions are not subject to presidential pardons. A motion to end the prosecution was filed Wednesday morning by Pete Skandalakis, the executive director of the states nonpartisan prosecutor council. In his 22-page filing, Mr. Skandalakis, a career prosecutor who ran for office early in his career as a Democrat but later as a Republican, shredded the case originally brought by Fani T. Willis, the Fulton County district attorney, taking it apart charge by charge. He asserted that it is not illegal to question or challenge election results.

No, it's not illegal to question or challenge election results. Just check out all the Democrats who did it to President George W. Bush in 2000 and 2004 and of course President Trump ever since he came down that escalator.

Furthermore, it must have been painful for the New York Times to publish this article. Very painful indeed.

Of course, the circle will be complete when an appeals court in New York throws those stupid 34 felonies in the trash. It would be nice if they followed that reversal by sending Prosecutor Alvin Bragg and judge whatever his name is to the boards to have their licenses revoked. It was a travesty -- the kind of stuff that they do in banana republics, not the U.S.

In the meantime, don't be tender with Fani. She needs to be questioned for her intentions and disregard for justice.

No, don't be tender with Fani. She doesn't deserve it.

P.S. Check out my blog for posts, podcasts and videos.

Image: White House
The Jeffrey Epstein saga refuses to fade into the shadows of history, casting a long shadow over American politics, even six years after the financiers suspicious death in a Manhattan jail cell. As a nation still recovering from the moral rot exposed by Epstein revelations over the years, the case pops up like a bad penny during every major election cycle, including the heated 2024 contest that returned Donald Trump to the White House. This fall, Democrats weaponized the Epstein files with renewed fury, staging a theatrical push that reeks of desperation.

Sudden U-Turn

As a proud MAGA conservative and defender of the Constitution, I have to own up to a moment of frustration with Trump on this front. During the 2024 campaign, he pledged to unleash the full trove of Epstein documents, vowing transparency to expose the elite predators lurking in their pages.

Yet by August 2025, he pivoted sharply, dismissing the release as a Democrat-led hoax designed to deflect from his administrations real work  like slashing taxes, sealing the border, and making better living. This u-turn left many GOP loyalists scratching their heads, handing Democrats a golden cudgel to bludgeon the White House and fuel their endless anti-Trump fever dreams.

The Epstein Files Transparency Act

After months of hollow Democrat bleating for the release of tens of thousands of pages of evidence, they finally muscled through the Epstein Files Transparency Act in mid-November 2025. The bipartisan bill mandates the Justice Department to disgorge all unclassified Epstein-related materials within 30 days of signing. Trump inked it into law on November 19, but not before his team triedand failedto stall the vote, a move that only amplified the political circus.

A Deliberate Plan to Trap the Dems?

Conservative commentators are buzzing with a delicious theory: Trumps early refusal to release the files wasnt weakness; it was brilliant rope-a-dope. He pretended to drag his feet, baiting the Democrats into wasting months of time, money, and political capital on a bill they thought would hurt him.

While they were screaming about transparency, Trumps team quietly stacked up wins on the border, the economy, and foreign policy, and let the left burn cash on lawyers, and watched them squirm as Bill Clintons twenty-six Lolita Express flights came back into the spotlight. Classic Trump chess: make your enemy chase ghosts while you get the real work done, then smile when their own trap snaps shut on them.

Let the Evidence Speak

Of course, thats just speculation, as juicy as it sounds. To cut through the fog, lets drill into the hard facts that expose this whole release the files frenzy as a cynical Democrat hoax, engineered not for justice but to torpedo Trumps reputation and hobble his second term. The evidenceor lack thereofpaints a picture of calculated deceit, straight out of the lefts playbook of smears and distractions.

Start with the elephant in the room: the assumption that these files hide some smoking gun nailing Trump to Epsteins wall of infamy. The feds have possessed this mountain of documents for over a decade, sifting through flight logs, emails, and witness statements that could bury any politician. Trump has gone through three brutal presidential campaigns2016, 2020, and 2024, none of which faced accusations in the Epstein mess.

If there were even a whiff of real dirt, like proof of island jaunts or underage entanglements, the Obama-Clinton machine or Bidens DOJ wouldve plastered it across every cable TV by now. They didnt, because it doesnt existTrump banned Epstein from Mar-a-Lago years ago, and cooperated with probes, while Bill Clintons name dances through the pages like a guilty ghost.

Epstein Files Amid Shutdown

The Democrats motives this fall scream tactical desperation, not righteous outrage. Theyre nursing wounds from the longest government shutdown in historyfrom October 1 to November 12, 2025fueled by their own insane demands for extended Obamacare subsidies amid Trumps push for fiscal sanity. Eight Senate Democrats even defected to end the farce, extending funding through January 2026 and averting more pain for furloughed feds.

Now, with Trump delivering booming GDP growth, brokering peace deals in the Middle East and Europe, and restoring America's swagger on the world stage, the left needs a distracting show. Here comes the Epstein revival: a low-cost psyop to paint Trump as complicit, erode GOP unity, and drown out headlines about zero illegal crossings in five months.

This isnt about victims or truthEpsteins victims have been sidelined in the Democrats rush to politicize their trauma. Its a classic bait-and-switch. Trump flipped the script by suddenly supporting the bill and ordering probes into Epsteins Democrat enablers, turning their info-op into a boomerang.

As the December 19 deadline looms, expect redactions galorethanks to clauses shielding active investigationsbut zero bombshells on the president. The real revelation? How the left clings to hoaxes when real accountability would expose their own hall of shame.

Deep State Strikes Back

This Epstein hysteria doesnt stand alone; its merely one front in the Deep States autumn offensive against the MAGA agenda. Just days after Democrats forced the Transparency Act through Congress, the same legacy media outletsCNN, The New York Times, and their echo chamberlaunched a coordinated smear against President Trumps Ukraine peace framework, falsely claiming it surrenders to Putin and abandons Kyiv. The reality, as always, is far from this critique.

In the end, the Epstein farce underscores why America handed Trump the keys again: exhaustion with elite games and a hunger for leaders who deliver results, not empty slogans. Democrats can claim all they want, but the files will vindicate the man they fear most. Transparency? Sure. But justice for the truth? Thats the MAGA way, and its just getting started.

Image from Grok.
Is the GOP paying attention?

What do we want?

Free money!

When do we want it?

Now!

What do we want?

Free money!

When do we want it?

Well, you get the idea.

No doubt inspired by Mamdanis election in New York, when he promised the moon to an evidently gullible electorate, Illinois Cook County Board of Commissioners recently approved $7.5 million for a permanent guaranteed basic income program. Chicago, the largest city in the Midwest and third-largest in the country, is the county seat for Cook County.

Image created using AI.

Of course, Democrats ownum, I mean, runIllinois, and have for decades. J.B. Pritzker is governor, Brandon Johnson is mayor of Chicago, and 16 of 17 Cook County commissioners are Democrats. Fox News cheerleader Joshua Q. Nelson seems to have left this out of his story, putting on a move along, nothing to see sort of spin on what is yet another Democrat vote-buying scheme:

Guaranteed basic income programs have become a trend across the U.S. in recent years with more than 100 pilots launched since 2018. Mayors for Guaranteed Income grew into a coalition of 150 mayors pushing pilot programs, offering low-income participants up to $1,000 a month with no strings attached. The group has pushed pilot programs that have been adopted by municipalities across the country. The Cook County program was launched in 2022 with the aid of federal COVID-19 relief funds. Once the largest publicly funded program in the nation receiving $42 million in federal funding from the American Rescue Plan Act, the Cook County Promise Guaranteed Income Pilot provided monthly payments of $500 to 3,250 households for two years, with no strings attached. Economic Security Illinois Director Sarah Saheb described Cook Countys guaranteed basic income pilot as a historic success and said that when the federal government was stepping back from its responsibilities to working families, Cook County is leading the way to ensure people can afford basic necessities.

Now, the commission has decided to make the program permanent based on survey results that showed that the people receiving the free money liked receiving free money:

The findings released by the commission in April showed that three-quarters of participants reported feeling more financially secure and 94% of participants used the funds to address financial emergencies during challenging times. Majorities also reported the program improved their mental health and lowered their stress levels. The commission learned from the survey that participants mainly used the funds for essential needs such as food, rent, utilities, and transportation.

In the push-back column, such as it was, we have Josh Bandoch, head of policy for the Illinois Policy Institute, a think tank that tracks public policy decisions in the state.

Cook County is making its guaranteed income pilot permanent and committing millions to a failed strategy already shown to leave people with less work experience and lower earnings. That should alarm anyone who wants real, long-term progress for low-income residents. A recent pilot program in northern Illinois, including Cook County, decreased workforce participation and lower individual income (before transfers), said Josh Bandoch...

No worries, replied the Commission:

...outcomes and impacts vary depending heavily on program design: amount of cash, frequency/duration of payments, eligibility criteria (income-based, place-based, etc.), and local cost of living. Cook County is partnering closely with the Inclusive Economy Lab at the University of Chicago to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the Promise Pilot. We will then design our next program in a thoughtful way that considers short- and long-term outcomes, the commission said.

I dont know about you, but I feel so much better knowing that the prestigious University of Chicago will be involved in a comprehensive evaluation of the Promise Pilot. University social scientists will give Pritzker the best assessment money can buyum, I mean, an objective, rigorous, fact-based analysis that other social scientists can use in a thoughtful way as precedent, if called upon. Scholarship at its best, folks.

Speaker Mike Johnson must make sure that federal money is notrepeat, notflowing into Democrat vote-buying schemes, in Illinois or elsewhere. With midterms less than a year away and control of Congress precariously in the balance, the GOP needs to get its act together and draw the logical conclusion from Mamdanis election. American Thinker readers will no doubt be howling with laughter when they read this sentence.

Arnold Cusmariu is the author of Logic for Kids (2023) and Echoes from Platos Cave (forthcoming in 2026). The Plato book is some 700 pages long and features an all-star cast that includes Bond girl Carole Bouquet, Michelangelo, CIA Director Robert M. Gates, Billy Idol, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Picasso, and Wittgenstein. The book is illustrated with hundreds of Arnolds sculptures.
Today is Black Friday. In Seattle, like every other day, it is red. It should be painted black, but for different reasons well get to. One things for sure: Despite its Emerald City moniker, it is not in the green.

Like many major U.S. cities, Seattles budget is in the red. The problem is, the mayor-elect is also red. Her priorities, including protecting illegal aliens (bizarrely, she rejects this legal term, perversely calling them undocumented migrants) will provide more expensive socialist soviet services. Thats part of her Trump-Proof agenda, but once again shes bending definitions because shes bent, and cant help herself.

Actually, its a TDS agenda impervious to common sense, but not to fiduciary responsibility as budget projections predict increased deficits. Taxes will go up even as business activity goes down  some are already dodging them as they get the heck out of Dodge.

One of the Rolling Stones musical masterpieces is Paint it, Black. A popular interpretation of the harrowing message is that it expresses deep grief, loss, and despair. Thus, it captures the dire and destitute state of Seattle. There are red doors all over the rotten place now, including to the mayor-elect and city councils socialist soviets. They might appropriately be painted black to reflect dark Dem despair that engulfs at least half of the voting populace.

About half of Seattle (including illegal aliens) is Glad all over that they are now red all over. That blackens the mood of the 49% more circumspect voters who rejected the socialist mayor-elect. For them, there are no colors anymore, they might as well be red that are painted black  certainly not glistening Emerald. On the bright side, once businesses escape the slimy Seattle soviet tentacles, setting up operations in greener pastures, they may eventually relish Black Friday for the right reasons.

Image generated by ChatGPT.
After a gunman ambushed and shot two National Guardsmen in D.C. just days ago, the first assumption for many was that the shooter was (another) crazed leftist, driven to violence (again) by recent Democrat rhetoric, particularly Elissa Slotkins suggestion that people in law enforcement, people in uniform, in military, were close to shoot[ing] at American civilians because of the pressure of being in high-stress environments as they help to restore law and order in Democrat strongholds (Chicago, D.C., etc.).

Sen. Elissa Slotkin went on TV last Sunday and claimed that National Guardsmen were going to start shooting at American civilians.



Two Guardsmen have now been wounded after being shot on the streets in DC. pic.twitter.com/lKKrqxYFWu  Greg Price (@greg_price11) November 26, 2025

It turned out though that the alleged shooter is an Afghan national, and naturally, the newest assumption for motive is his religious beliefs. (However, just because the suspect is an Afghan and the likeliest cause of his alleged motive is his Islamist background, I still think its worth investigating if he were allegedly driven to murder because of the seditious sixs suggestion that military authority is now the enemy.)

Yet, heres the real point of the essay: In the wake of the shooting, the mainstream media rushed to defend Afghans in the U.S., saying we shouldnt condemn an entire population based on one mans criminal actions. From the Wall Street Journal today: The alleged shooting by an Afghan partner shouldnt condemn all who assisted the U.S. and now live here.

From CNN:

[Shawn] VanDiver [president of AfghanEvac] urged the public not to demonize all Afghans because of the alleged choices of one individual  whose motive has not yet been identified. Weve got so many people who are here, and one guy doing this does not mean that all Afghan families are troublemakers or terrorists.

And, from a statement released by Racial Unity Now of Whatcom county:

Racial Unity Now is aware of the recent reports involving an Afghan neighbor who lived in our community. The violence in Washington, D.C. is tragic and we hold the victims and their families in our prayers. We want to address the fear and confusion. Our community is facing a choice: we can shrink into narratives that divide us, or we can practice the courage that peace requires. Our immigrant neighbors came here fleeing violence, not bringing it. One persons actions, especially in a case still unfolding, cannot speak for thousands of families yearning for safety and belonging.

(The D.C. guardsmen alleged shooter has been living in Whatcom county, just outside Seattle.)

Now, its not a great comparison, since Afghan nationals by their very nature are obvious security risks (this applies to all third-world Muslims with their third-world behaviors, customs, and culture), but what a concept to not demonizing an entire demographic based on one individuals actions?

Id like to know though: Where is this logic every time the media campaigns to strip law-abiding Americans of their right to self-defense, protected by the Second Amendment, because a homicidal psychopath goes on a killing spree?

Every time a trans individual goes on a murderous rampage, were told not to pass judgments or recognize the patterns. The same goes for every time a black man winds up committing a violent (and often race-based) crime, or apparently, when (again) a Muslim slaughters innocent people.

Can the press ever be disabused of their illogical and deep-seated biases?

Hat tip: Jack Hellner.

Image from Grok.
Separatist plans of Lai slammed

08:54, November 28, 2025 By Li Shangyi ( China Daily

A Chinese mainland spokesman strongly condemned on Thursday Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te's new action plans regarding the island's security, warning that these would bring ruin to the island and expose a "warmongering nature".

Chen Binhua, a spokesman for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, accused Lai of undermining cross-Strait relations and pursuing "Taiwan independence". Chen warned that such actions would push Taiwan into the "abyss of war and danger".

The remarks follow Lai's speech at a high-level security meeting on Wednesday in Taiwan, where the Democratic Progressive Party authorities unveiled plans to safeguard "democratic Taiwan" and strengthen "defense" capabilities by increasing the island's military expenditure.

During a news conference after the meeting on Wednesday, Lai announced a NT$1.25 trillion ($40 billion) special "defense" budget over eight years. He also reaffirmed his pledge to raise "defense" spending to 3.3 percent of GDP next year and to 5 percent by 2030.

Chen criticized the plans for "aggressively hyping the 'mainland threat' and attempting to seek 'independence' by force and by relying on external forces". He described Lai's action plans as a warmongering scheme that threatens disaster for the island and its people.

Chen denounced Lai for ignoring mainstream public opinion on the island and for heightening tensions across the Taiwan Strait.

Lai's remarks also drew criticism within Taiwan. Cheng Li-wun, chairwoman of the Chinese Kuomintang party, condemned Lai for moving further toward "independence".

"Lai's words have not only turned the Taiwan Strait into a powder keg, but also turned Taiwan into an arms factory," Cheng said on Wednesday.

Ma Ying-jeou, former Taiwan leader and former KMT chairman, wrote on Facebook on Thursday that Lai has not considered paths for cross-Strait reconciliation and dialogue.

Chen, the spokesman, reiterated Beijing's position that there is only one China in the world, and both the Chinese mainland and Taiwan belong to one China.

He added that "peaceful reunification and one country, two systems" is the best approach to achieve national reunification. It will fully take into account the realities of Taiwan, extensively draw on views and suggestions from people across the Taiwan Strait, and fully safeguard the interests and feelings of compatriots in Taiwan.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Recognized as Biologics CDMO of the Year, BioDlink shares insights into the world's first approved EGFR-targeted ADC for recurrent/metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma

The company enables seamless EuropeChina tech transfer and faster biologics development through an integrated, end-to-end CMC platform

SUZHOU, China, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- BioDlink, a global leader in biologics contract development and manufacturing, took center stage at Biologics CDMO Europe 2025 to present its critical role in the regulatory approval and manufacturing support of the world's first approved EGFR-targeted antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) for the treatment of recurrent or metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma (R/M NPC).

During his keynote presentation, "Linking Europe and China Mutual Success in Biologics CMC Development," Dr. Jian Zhang, Chief Operating Officer at BioDlink, discussed global and Chinese biologics market trends, pointing out that China contributed 54 percent of ADCs and 48 percent of bispecific and tri-specific antibodies in global Phase / trials as of 2025[1]. In Q1-Q3 2025, the country's license-out total deal value hit $920.3 billion, a 77 percent increase over 2024, including 16 deals valued over $1 billion each based on industry report[2].

Dr. Zhang also introduced BioDlink's cross-regional project execution capabilities, providing case studies on how its integrated one-base, end-to-end CMC (Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls) platform facilitated seamless technology transfer, agile regulatory alignment, and accelerated manufacturing timelines. The company recently manufactured a first-in-class Becotatug Vedotin injection, receiving marketing approval from China's National Medical Products Administration (NMPA), and is the first EGFR-targeted ADC ever approved globally, representing a significant R/M NPC therapeutic advancement.

Further reinforcing its industry leadership, BioDlink was named Biologics CDMO of the Year at the Biologics CDMO Excellence Europe 2025 awards, recognized for its overall excellence in biologics across core customer needs, including quality, speed, and cost.

BioDlink sponsored the "Tech-Transfer Simplified: Lessons across the Lifecycle" forum, with Dr. Zhang participating in a lively discussion with top biotech CEOs, MNC executives, research leaders, and investment leaders. Technology transfer should be treated not just as a technical handoff but as a strategic phase covering the transition from development to manufacturing, with implications for product quality, timelines, regulatory applications, and commercial outcomes. Seamless technology transfer is also essential to China's growth as a global innovation hub, enabling greater speed, broader modality expansion, and a shift to NewCo and out-licensing financing.

"We are empowering our global clients to innovate more fearlessly," said Dr. Zhang. "With world-class facilities anchored in Asia, strategic reach into Europe and tested quality systems, BioDlink is a strategic bridge from Europe to China's fast-growing drug discovery and CMC development ecosystem with significant speed and cost advantages. We are committed to serving as a strategic CDMO partner to global pharmaceutical companies advancing first-in-class and other advanced therapies."

About BioDlink Biopharm Co., Ltd.

BioDlink (1875.HK) is a leading global CDMO specializing in biologics and bioconjugates (ADCs/XDCs). Headquartered in Suzhou with centers in Shanghai and Beijing, the company provides fully integrated, end-to-end services spanning early R&D through commercial manufacturing.

With its one-base integrated platform and proprietary technologiessuch as BDKcell for rapid cell line development and GL-DisacLink for site-specific conjugationBioDlink helps partners accelerate development, improve efficiency, and reduce costs.

The company operates four commercial manufacturing lines with large-scale sterile fill-finish capabilities, backed by a global GMP-aligned quality system that has earned PMDA accreditation in Japan and supported product approvals across China, Indonesia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Colombia and Bolivian.

Guided by the philosophy of "Quality First, Innovation Driven, Success Together," BioDlink is committed to advancing global access to next-generation biologics and building trusted partnerships worldwide. For more information, please visit: https://www.biodlink.com/

Reference:

[1] McKinsey & Company, Building the bridge to global innovation report [2] Source from NextPharma Database and MedAlpha Database

SOURCE BioDlink Biopharm Co., Ltd.
As U.S. military operations continue on the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, taking out drug-smuggling boats, the left has been dining out on the absurd claim that the U.S. Navy's targets are nothing more than fishing boats, filled with humble fishermen.

Like these guys:

ICYMI: Colombias Gustavo Petro BLASTS The United States.



A clan of pedophiles wants to destroy our democracy. To keep [Epsteins] list from coming out, they send warships to kill fishermen and threaten our neighbor with an invasion... that is only about their oil.



They pic.twitter.com/RF7WQ1PjAl  Going Underground (@GUnderground_TV) November 12, 2025

Trump is out of control with power.



He says he will not go to Congress to declare war on fishing boats carrying what he says are drug runners.



Trump said we are just going to go in and kill them.



The MAGA GOP has created a monster who should be on trial at the Hague. pic.twitter.com/jky3ZOfNWb  Feisty is proud to be a Democrat! (@FeistyLibLady) October 24, 2025

The US military just killed another fisherman in its attacks in the Caribbean. This man was a Colombian citizen.



The Trump admin also killed 2 fishermen from Trinidad and Tobago.



The US rogue regime is committing acts of international terrorism in its imperial war on Venezuela. https://t.co/vp8teHLZDZ  Ben Norton (@BenjaminNorton) October 19, 2025

Since September 2, Trump has summarily executed 76 fishermen.. that HE, and HE alone, suspected of drug trafficking..  Old Man Lefty (@OldManLefty1) November 11, 2025

Trump & his minions have already murdered a number of innocent fisherman in their boats off the S American coastline.

No charges, no names. Just murder. https://t.co/Jy9AGfXHhB  Scott Shepard (@Shepardofmaine) November 26, 2025

Trump and Hegseth are murdering fishermen off the coast of Venezuela.  Justin Carroll (@justincarroll_x) October 21, 2025

Trump can't prove why he's killing those fishermen https://t.co/SDhgpHIlLS  Trump is a pimp (@Tomorrow_File) October 22, 2025

I'm not sure why they did this, but the Wall Street Journal decided to interview a few, and well, yes, they are drug dealers.

According to its original report, by longtime Wall Street Journal correspondent Juan Forero:

CALI, ColombiaThey see themselves as the cowboys of the drug trade, highly experienced crews that ferry narcotics on small boats across the open seas, running on a mix of bravado, skill and dreams of a massive payday. Now, designated as terrorists by the Trump administration, they face not only the perils of a capricious sea but the new danger of getting blown out of the water by the U.S. military. The trades unofficial mottodeliver or diehas never rung so true. Three men who have manned these drug boats, known as go fasts, spoke to The Wall Street Journal, describing a once little-known but essential part of the narcotics trade that is now in President Trumps sights. They run drug cargoes worth as much as $70 million on the sleek 40-foot-long boats, often built from fiberglass and powered by oversize outboards. These boats are the workhorses for the traffickers along 2,000 miles of Colombian coastlineand hundreds more miles in Ecuador and Venezuela.

In reality, they make big money for their 'hauls' -- much more than they can make with fishing at sea, with payouts of $100,000 a haul, or as much as $10,000 a day for crew members, with pilots probably paid more. The pecking order was identified as pilots at the top; mechanics who keep the boats fueled second; a 'guarantor' who is trusted by both the buying and selling side third (these are drug dealers, after all); and sometimes a navigator bringing up the rear.

Even with the new threats, the incentives remain huge. The pilot said a clean run of two or three tons can mean $100,000 for a days work. With that kind of money at stake, he said it wouldnt be hard to find willing men to keep running the boats, even with the threat of military strikes. The ocean is very big, very big, said the pilot. These drug organizations live from trafficking. They will continue to do this. This doesnt end. This will continue even if the United States continues its bombings.

The hauls are multi-ton amounts, delivered to confederates in homemade submarines, or boats they meet at sea that head onward to Honduras, Mexico and other intermediate points until the Mexican cartels take it from there. (So Sen. Rand Paul's point about these drug boats not being able to reach the U.S. is nonsense -- drug boats do what they do in relays.)

In this regard, they roughly parallel Colombia's coca farmers who grow what they grow because Colombia's bad or absent roads hamper them from bringing legitimate food crops to market, while drug lords who buy coca for cocaine are experienced at smuggling it through dense jungle undergrowth. So, the farmers make more money farming coca than farming food crops and that's why they grow coca.

Forero writes that they are very methodical in their planning and execution:

Smuggling runs are mapped out weeks ahead, the Colombian navy says, with the cocaine often making its way north in stages. The boat crews try to slip past or outrun whatever Colombia and the U.S. put in front of them: coastal patrol boats to frigates and helicopters farther out. Some crews run the entire route themselvesfrom Colombia to Honduras or even Mexico24 hours or more depending on the size of the cargo, the power of the engines and weather conditions. With speed of the essence, they dont stop for anything; even bathroom breaks are handled as the boat rockets forward.

Which doesn't exactly sound like innocent fishermen randomly being out to see, only to fall prey to the U.S. Navy.

The Navy has technical intelligence that can find and identify these drug-transporting boats simply because the planning provides numerous ways of harvesting intelligence in a way that some rando fisherman not sure where he might be going on a given day wouldn't be able to provide.

The reason why this talking-point rubbish matters is, well, start with this narrative-building here:

The @ICC must indict Trump, Rubio, Hegseth, Stephen Miller, JD Vance for the killing of Venezuelan fishermen. Trump declared it a war, making them accountable under international law. It is unacceptable for America to freely target and kill individuals in other countries. pic.twitter.com/tfQf7zf2jN  Voice of Australia (@Voice_of_Aust) October 6, 2025

Killing fishermen is a crime.

Terrorist trump is a criminal.

Scotus created this by going against law to protect donold.

They all must be held accountable!#VoteBlue pic.twitter.com/uRat13sjJa  SocialJusticeNow (@now_justice) October 2, 2025

This slew of false claims and calls to file charges over the 'fishermen' is pretty much why these toads here made their 'Seditious Six' video calling on U.S. servicemen to stop obeying their commander-in-chief's orders. Notice the use of the term 'don't give up the ship':

Big ups to the 6 Congressional Democrats (Sens. Slotkin and Kelly, and Reps. Crow, Deluzio, Goodlander, and Houlahan) for making a pro-freedom statement with their Dont Give Up The Ship video.https://t.co/yj1ekhgEzC pic.twitter.com/Ha8LxTzOgn  Justin Gibson (@JGibsonDem) November 26, 2025

Now it's getting out that President Trump has been telling the truth all along -- that the drug boats are out there, the U.S. Navy is out there looking to take out drug boats, and none of this has anything to do with the left's romantic notions of 'fishermen.'

Image: X video screen shot
This year marked the fiftieth anniversary of the end of the Vietnam war. What can be learned from that conflict? We can start by understanding what propelled the U.S. into that war. Unlike World War II, when the nation was thrust into war after Japan bombed Pearl Harbor and Hitler inexplicably declared war on us, the reasons for our involvement in the Vietnam conflict are rather murky. Helping the French regain their former prominence in Indochina, sticking with an anticommunist ally, and challenging ascendant Soviet power, are all reasons given. More than anything though, it was because of our earlier military involvement in the Korean war.

The Korean war started because a communist nationalist regime in the north backed by the Soviet Union wanted to assert its hegemony over the south of the country. The U.S. wanted to uphold the terms of the Potsdam agreement with the Soviets to divide Korea along the 38th parallel. Stalin had already reneged on terms of the Potsdam agreement by not allowing free elections in Eastern Europe, and Truman was adamant that there would be no further backsliding on the terms of that agreement. General MacArthur pulled off a spectacular amphibious landing at Inchon and drove North Korean troops back to the Yalu River, but the war degenerated into a grueling contest as the communist Chinese entered the conflict and pushed U.S. troops to the 38th parallel, where the conflict has been frozen in place ever since.

What emerged from the Korean conflict was thinking amongst Washington elites that communism could be successfully contained through limited military engagement, even in the age of nuclear weapons. John F. Kennedy voiced this sentiment in his inaugural address when he stated, Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the survival and the success of liberty. Whether you believe his words to be a political stunt or not, they comprise a promise to the world by the young president that could not possibly be kept. This set the stage for what was to happen later when Kennedys successor, Lyndon Johnson, led us piecemeal into the Vietnam conflict.

With Vietnam, Johnson was unwilling to risk an Inchon-style amphibious assault on Haiphong and rapid troop advance on Hanoi, because he feared it might lead to direct involvement with Chinese or Russian troops in an expansive land war in Asia. He chose instead a limited engagement with ground troops, countering a communist insurgency in the South and securing air bases so that U.S. air power could be a deciding factor. At least that was the hope of U.S. planners. The reality took a different turn with Johnson unwilling to unleash the sustained level of bombing necessary to induce the North Vietnamese to compromise on their goal of reunification with the South. As the war dragged on, the U.S. appeared as the blinded Cyclops feeling its way around in a vain attempt to catch the enemy. It took escalation of the bombing campaign in December of 1972 by Nixon to bring the North to a compromise. However, with Nixons fall from power after the Watergate scandal and Congress passing the War Powers Act restricting the presidents ability to act independent of its wishes, enforcement of the Paris Peace Accords floundered. In the spring of 1975, North Vietnam initiated a tank assault on the South, and the U.S. did not respond militarily as it had promised earlier with air strikes on the North, ending its ten-year involvement in the war.

By the time that the last Marine helicopter left the U.S. embassy in Saigon in 1975, the U.S. had lost all the naivete that was so apparent in JFKs inaugural address promise in 1960. The nations appetite for foreign military entanglement was at an ebb. For a while, the specter of Vietnam hung over U.S. foreign policy and served as a reminder to the foreign policy Establishment that Americans would not undertake the impossible task of remaking a world that they had little interest in or control over. They would not be the guardian of liberty for all suffering people. They understood that the world would remain a menacing place and they would confine their task to guarding U.S. interests against it. That is the lesson learned from the Vietnam war. It was one that had to be relearned decades later in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Image generated by ChatGPT.
Everybody (with a brain) knows it: When Zohran Mamdani swears in as mayor in a matter of weeks, criminality will reign supreme in the Big Apple. The public safety measures hes talked about implementing, like the closure of Rikers Island, the slashing of resources and funding from law enforcement, and the prohibition of sending police officers to deal with domestic violence calls, are all policies that protect and prioritize criminals, not victims. On top of that, hes announced that his administration and his police chief will not cooperate with ICE, and instead, will shield illegally-present foreigners from federal agents. And, Mamdani very recently met with Siraj Wahhaj (real name Jeffrey Kearse). To the surprise of no one (with a brain), Wahhaj has an established history of supporting Muslim terrorists and their causes, even calling America filth and urging Muslims to use the political system to wage jihad in the states; Mamdani called Wahhaj a pillar of Muslim community and a local leader.

Mamdani is going to usher in an unprecedented wave of crime, anarchy, and chaos (which explains the predicted mass exodus).

All that being said, the neighboring county of Nassau is not taking any chances, and county executive Bruce Blakeman has decided that when Mamdani takes office, hes planning to run the border between Queens and Nassau like Tom Homan would, literally putting up a wall, using high-tech security measures to track who comes in from Mamdanis domain, and directing a heavy police presence to patrol the area. From an item at the New York Post this morning:

We are doing everything necessary to make sure that Nassau County is safe, Blakeman told the outlet, calling Mamdanis policies pro-criminal and anti-American. The county executives office hasnt disclosed a price tag for the bolstered border security but said hed fund the price tag for the gadgets through asset forfeitures.

Additionally, Blakeman intends to take the exact opposite approach of Mamdani, and plans to hire more police and boost the countys existing and controversial collaboration with ICE.

Perhaps most telling is this: Blakeman and his police chief arent really sure how much intel they plan to share with the NYPD once it comes under Mamdanis control, acknowledging the serious security risks this could meanNew York City has become a hostile enemy state.

When your ideology and policies turn the sparkling capital of the world into third world hellholes, like Juarez or Gaza, with the dysfunction to match, maybe its time to adjust course.

Image generated by ChatGPT.
In the early decades of the twentieth century, as radium fever gripped scientists and entrepreneurs alike, one Philadelphia businessman joined the race for the glowing substance that promised medical miracles and industrial riches. His name was Dicran Hadjy Kabakjianan Armenian immigrant and inventor, whose ambition outpaced the safety knowledge of the era.

Kabakjian was neither a famous physicist nor a well-funded industrialist. He was part of a smaller, largely forgotten world of independent experimentersmen who believed that with enough perseverance and chemical ingenuity, they too could produce a substance worth more than its weight in gold.

What Kabakjian did not know, and what few in his day fully understood, was that radium was a danger unlike anything that had ever been handled in small workshops or private homes. In trying to refine it, he contaminated both places so thoroughly that decades later federal surveyors would still find his walls, floors, and pipes ticking ominously on a Geiger counter.

When Marie and Pierre Curie announced the discovery of radium in 1898, the world was dazzled by its faint green glow. Physicists and chemists everywhere scrambled to probe this strange new realm of radioactivity and search for practical uses for the element. Kabakjian was no different. With a background in physics, he quickly established himself as one of the leading American authorities on radiation and its properties.

In 1913, he developed a process for extracting radium salts from carnotite, the yellowish clay-like uranium ore mined in Colorado and Utah. His method called for crushing the ore into a fine sand and treating it with strong acids, a technique that could recover nearly 90 percent of the radium presentfar more efficient than existing extraction processes. Kabakjian sold the exclusive rights to this method to the W.L. Cummings Chemical Company, where he served as their chief radium consultant.

In 1915, Cummings established a radium-refining facility in Lansdowne, housed in a wooden building beside the train tracks near South Union and Austin Avenues. Powerful grinding machines reduced the ore to fine sand, which workers then manually shovelled into towering two-story vats. There, the sand was subjected to a series of chemical treatments designed to coax out minute quantities of radium. The plant processed as much as two tons of carnotite ore a day, yet its yearly yield amounted to only about three grams of radiumroughly the mass of a modern penny.

While such a return might seem miserly for the effort involved, the economics of the era told a different story. A single gram of radium commanded an astonishing $100,000well over $2 million in todays money. And Cummingss operation was one of only six radium-producing facilities in the entire world. The business flourished for a time, and both Cummings and Dr. Kabakjian enjoyed the profits.

But the success was short-lived. In the early 1920s, richer ores were discovered elsewhere, and despite Kabakjians continued refinements to the extraction process, Cummings could no longer compete. The refinery shut down for good in 1922.

Kabakjian, however, saw an opportunity in miniature. Although his method was no longer viable on an industrial scale, it remained profitable for small-batch refining. So in 1923, he set up a modest radium-processing workshop in the basement of his elegant three-story Victorian duplex, located not far from the shuttered refinery.

Kabakjian purchased ore by the truckload, which arrived at his home every few months. His two sons, Armen and Raymond, hauled the heavy sacks into the basement, where they ground the ore into sand. Even the daughters took part in the operation. Alice heated the sand until radium crystals began to form, Louise weighed the crystals and packed them into fine-gauge platinum needles, and Lillian kept the accounts. Kabakjian and his wife oversaw the entire enterprise from start to finish.



A piece of carnotite in sandstone, mined in Colorado. Credit: James St. John

The radium they produced was sold to doctors and hospitals for the rapidly growing field of cancer radiotherapy. During the Second World War, the family even supplied radium to the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard, where it was used in industrial x-ray work to detect microscopic cracks and flaws in ship components.

By the 1940s, Kabakjians health began to decline, forcing him to close the family business. He died in 1945 at the age of seventy. An autopsy later revealed that he suffered from fibrosis of the lungs, caused by years of inhaling fumes from the strong acids used in his refining process.

After his death, the Kabakjian family sold their three-story house and moved to a smaller residence. The property passed to the Tallant family, who were initially unaware of Kabakjians long history of radium work in the basement. When Anna Tallant learned of it from neighbours, she quickly moved out, selling the house once again, this time to another unsuspecting buyer, the Kizirian family, in 1961.

In the late 1950s and early 1960s, Pennsylvania began identifying former sites where radioactive materials had been processed, checking them for lingering contamination. Dr. Kabakjians name surfaced during the review, and one day investigators from the Department of Health arrived at the Kizirian home carrying Geiger counters. The family was stunned to learn what their house had once been used for, and even more alarmed when the instruments began to chatter. Radiation levels throughout the property were far beyond what could be considered safe.

The basement, where Kabakjian had conducted most of his refining work, was the worst. One basement sink emitted so much gamma radiation that inspectors refused to come within several feet of it. But the contamination was not confined to the cellar. The first-floor dining room, the front porch, the garage, and even the driveway all showed elevated readings.

State authorities ordered the Kizirians to clean up the property, but Harry Kizirian had no way to cover the estimated $10,000 cost. At the time, state and federal clean-up programs funded only military and industrial sites, not private homes. The Bureau of Radiation Protection ultimately announced that the house would have to be demolished.

Desperate, the Kizirians hired a lawyer, who persuaded a congressman to intervene. His efforts succeeded in securing a joint statefederal decontamination effort led by the U.S. Air Force. Clean-up began in 1964, and by the time the work was completed, more than 120 drums of radioactive material had been removed and shipped to a disposal facility near Buffalo, New York.

Fortunately, the Kabakjian and Kizirian families, along with others who had lived or worked in the house, were tested, and no long-term health effects were found. As part of the investigation, the bodies of Dr. and Mrs. Kabakjian were exhumed for analysis. Tests revealed that the professors remains contained 5.7 micrograms of radiumat the time, the highest concentration of radioactive material ever recorded in a human body.

The initial clean-up cost the state $200,000, yet even after a thorough decontamination, the house still emitted enough radiation to raise the long-term cancer risk for anyone living there, particularly the risk of lung cancer from inhaling radon gas and microscopic radium particles. The Kizirians were barred from returning, and because further remediation was impractical, the state decided the house would ultimately need to be demolished.

But demolition did not come immediately. The structure remained standing as a curious piece of local lore for nearly twenty more years. When the Environmental Protection Agency returned in the 1980s with fresh surveys, the results were alarming. A resident living in the house would have received an annual dose of roughly 1.6 remabout ten times the accepted limit. The surrounding soil was also heavily contaminated with radium, thorium, actinium, and protactinium.

The most serious dangers came from radon gas and radium dust trapped inside the house. Once inhaled, these internal sources irradiate the body from within, posing far greater risks than external exposure.

Dismantling finally began in 1987 and concluded in 1989. The clean-up cost the government $11.6 million. Workers removed 1,430 tons of radioactive rubble to a nuclear waste site in Utah, along with an additional 4,000 tons of contaminated soil. More than 6,000 tons of clean soil were brought in to replace it, and 246 feet of municipal sewer line had to be excavated and replaced.

Following the demolition of the Kabakjian house, the EPA turned its attention to the former W.L. Cummings Chemical Company refinery on Austin Avenue. During the investigation, officials discovered that Cummings had, years earlier, disposed of waste sand containing trace amounts of radioactive material by giving it to local contractors. The sand had been mixed into mortar, stucco, plaster, and concretemeaning that an unknown number of homes in Lansdowne and nearby communities had been built or repaired with radioactive materials containing radium, thorium, and possibly uranium.

EPA crews spent weeks driving through the neighbourhood in a van outfitted with external radiation detectors, scanning houses from the street in search of radioactive stucco. Their survey ultimately identified 21 contaminated sites. The agency repaired one house, demolished and rebuilt ten others, and permanently condemned and relocated the residents of eight more.

With these actions, the radioactive legacy that began with Dicran Hadjy Kabakjian was finally brought to an end.

Luckily, no one who had purchased contaminated concrete in the 1920s appeared to suffer serious harm. Most problems were confined to the Kabakjian home, where several individuals later developed illnesses that, while impossible to conclusively link to radiation, remain unsettlingly suggestive

Anna Tallant , who lived in the house from 1949 to 1961, died in 1969 of breast cancer at age 54.

, who lived in the house from 1949 to 1961, died in 1969 of breast cancer at age 54. Raymond Kabakjian , Dicrans son who spent most of his youth in the house, died in 1977 of abdominal cancer at age 65.

, Dicrans son who spent most of his youth in the house, died in 1977 of abdominal cancer at age 65. Raymond Kabakjian Jr. , Dicrans grandson, died in 1983 of bladder cancer at age 37.

, Dicrans grandson, died in 1983 of bladder cancer at age 37. William Dooner, who delivered carnotite ore to the Kabakjian home for two decades, died in 1984 at age 71 from lung cancer.

References:

# The Hot House, The Ancient and Esoteric Order of the Jackalope
The skyline of Trinidad and Tobago's capital city, Port of Spain. An American was found dead in Castara, a fishing village on the island of Tobago, according to reports (Getty Images)

An American man was killed in Trinidad and Tobago this week after reportedly leaving his friends to buy marijuana, according to reports.

Christopher Brown, a 43-year-old builder from Colorado, was found dead Wednesday night in Castara, a small village on the island of Tobago, according to a police report reviewed by the Associated Press. Police believe he was stabbed, and are investigating his death as a suspected murder.

The report said Brown had dinner and drinks with his friends in Castara on Wednesday evening before leaving the group. Brown reportedly told his friends he was leaving to buy marijuana.

Officers from the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service found Brown unresponsive around 10:30 p.m. Brown had several wounds on his body, and a metal object was protruding from his back, the AP reports. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

A 24-year-old man has been held in connection with Browns death, the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service told The Independent. Investigators have not revealed the suspects identity.

Christopher Brown, a 43-year-old from Colorado, was found dead on Wednesday night (Getty Images)

Authorities have not said when Brown arrived on the island, or whether he was visiting, according to CBS News.

A spokesperson at the U.S. Embassy in Trinidad and Tobago told The Independent that officials are aware of the death of an American citizen in Tobago this week.

We are working with the TTPS, and would like to thank Chief Secretary Farley Augustine, the TTPS, and other officials of the Government of Trinidad and Tobago for their assistance, the spokesperson said. The embassy offers its condolences to the family of the deceased, and asks the public to respect the privacy of the family and friends of the deceased at this difficult time.

Tobagos Division of Tourism, Culture, Antiquities and Transportation released a statement Thursday that appeared to address the incident, but did not identify Brown by name.

In the statement, the agency condemned the tragic murder of a foreign national in the peaceful community of Castara.

This is the first such act of violence in idyllic Castara, a community known for its safe and welcoming environment and a community which stands as a pillar of community tourism excellence, the statement reads.

There have been 330 homicides in Trinidad and Tobago so far this year, according to police data reviewed by the AP. The nation is also under a state of emergency, with officials citing concerns about an alleged criminal network within the countrys prisons, the outlet reports.

This article was updated on November 28 to include comment from the U.S. Embassy in Trinidad and Tobago and the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service
As fighting continues on the front line, the EU is wrangling over frozen Russian funds - Reuters

Belgium is blocking an EU plan to use 140bn of frozen Russian assets to help Ukraine defend itself, arguing that it could derail a potential peace deal to end the war.

Its support for the reparation loan, worth the equivalent of around 122bn, is vital because the sovereign assets are held by Euroclear, which is headquartered in Brussels.

Belgium fears it would be liable for Russian legal action against the clearing house, which could in turn trigger a financial crisis.

Bart De Wever, the Belgian prime minister, has refused to back the plan without cast-iron guarantees from the EU despite mounting pressure from other European leaders.

It comes as Volodymyr Zelensky faces bad news from the front lines in the east of Ukraine, a corruption scandal and US demands that he signs a land for peace deal with Putin.

Belgian PM Bart De Wever is blocking a plan to let Mr Zelensky benefit from Russian funds - Anadolu

Under the EUs plan, the frozen Russian central bank assets in Europe would be lent to Ukraine for Kyiv to use for defence and regular budget needs.

This would provide welcome respite for European governments, the biggest donors to Ukraine since Russias full-scale invasion in February 2022. Ukraine would pay back the loan only when it received war reparations from Russia.

Mr De Wever, a Flemish nationalist, wrote to Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commission (EC) president, setting out his objections in a letter on Thursday.

He said: Hastily moving forward on the proposed reparations loan scheme would have, as collateral damage, that we as EU are effectively preventing reaching an eventual peace deal.

Ukrainians continue to lose their lives resisting Putins troops, as hopes of peace ebb and flow - Reuters

Mr De Wever called the proposed reparations loan scheme fundamentally wrong, pointing out that, historically, a warring countrys immobilised assets had not been used until the conflict had ended, and then it was to pay reparations.

He also repeated his concerns over legal liability in the event of Russian litigation, which Moscow has threatened.

Sir William Browder, a British-American anti-Putin activist, thinks a deal will be done to release the funds to avoid the need for European soldiers to fight. He said the UK should take the same approach as the EU with the estimated 26bn of frozen Russian central bank assets in London.

He told The Telegraph: I think that Europe would rather lose money than people for as long as they can.

He said Belgium had a very justified position and the EU member states should agree to share any liability equally, but that it was unlikely Russia would win any litigation.

Sir William added: The Russians can scream bloody murder all they want. Theres no credible threat. Its not like we have $300bn of our money held in the Russian central bank.

The EC will address Belgiums concerns in draft legal proposals on Friday or at the weekend. Leaders including Emmanuel Macron of France and Friedrich Merz of Germany see the assets as rare European leverage in the negotiations between the US and Russia to try to end the war in Ukraine.

European prime ministers and presidents backed the idea at an EU summit last month but could not get Belgiums support. It was an embarrassing setback at a sensitive moment in the peace talks, and exposed how Europe had been sidelined.

Brussels hopes the EU can come to an agreement on the issue at the next summit of the blocs leaders, on Dec 18 and 19.

In addition to the immobilised funds held by Euroclear, an estimated 25bn of Russian assets are frozen in EU banks based elsewhere, mainly France and Luxembourg.

Belgium has previously said other countries with Russian assets, including Britain, Canada, Japan and the US  all members of the G7  should be included in the scheme. The issue of legal liability is particularly sensitive as Mr De Wever attempts to fix his countrys finances.

After months of negotiations and crisis talks that began on Sunday morning and lasted until Monday morning, Belgiums dysfunctional five-party coalition finally agreed a budget to cut its deficit. That was followed by a three-day national strike, as unions protested cuts and pension reforms.
A resident looks through a broken window at an apartment building in Kyiv after a Russian drone strike. Photograph: Valentyn Ogirenko/Reuters

Belgium has hit back against an EU plan to use Russias frozen assets to aid Ukraine, describing the scheme as fundamentally wrong and throwing into doubt how Europe will fund Kyiv.

In a sharply worded letter, Belgiums prime minister, Bart De Wever, said the proposal violated international law and would instigate uncertainty and fear in financial markets, damaging the euro. These risks are unfortunately not academic but real, he wrote to the European Commission president, Ursula von der Leyen.

Belgium hosts 183bn of Russian assets, about two-thirds of the Russian assets immobilised in the west, at the Brussels-based central securities depository Euroclear.

De Wevers intervention comes amid growing pressure on the EU to agree the use of Russias frozen assets to aid Ukraine, after a US-led plan to end the war called into question Europes control of the funds.

The commission is expected to present imminently a draft legal text on using Russian assets immobilised in Europe as the basis for a 140bn (122bn) loan for Ukraine.

De Wever said the scheme posed systemic risks for the EU as a financial marketplace and warned that Euroclear could be sued by Russians with a claim on the assets, landing the Belgian government with a multibillion euro bill.

He said he would not not sign off on the scheme unless all Belgiums concerns were addressed, including a full guarantee to be provided by willing member states if the loan went wrong, according to the letter seen by the Guardian, which was first reported by Politico.

The Flemish nationalist leader also argues that moving forward with the reparations loan plan would prevent the EU from reaching a peace deal, because the Russian assets would not be available for the reconstruction of Ukraine.

In language that will dismay many of Ukraines EU backers, he suggested Ukraine could lose the war. In the very probable event Russia is ultimately not officially the losing party, it will, as history has shown in other cases, be legitimately asking for its sovereign assets to be returned, De Wever said.

EU leaders failed to agree on the idea in October, but are under added pressure to finalise the plan after the White House revealed its thinking on Russias frozen assets, which are mostly held in Europe, above all Belgium.

The controversial US-led 28-point plan that emerged last week proposed that $100bn (76bn) in frozen Russian assets would be invested in US-led efforts to rebuild and invest in Ukraine, with the US reaping 50% of profits from the venture. The rest of Russias frozen assets would be invested in a US-Russian investment vehicle focused on joint projects.

These ideas are understood to have been removed from the latest version of the plan to end the war, but have underscored for European leaders the urgency of acting quickly.

The US proposal has maybe sharpened some European minds, Latvias former prime minister Krisjanis Karins told the Guardian, saying he had been taken aback by the original proposals on the funds. There had been the realisation that things could go very, very differently [so] better to keep those funds under European control and therefore take some decisions in Europe which would preclude anyone else getting their hands on the assets, he said.

The assets are seen as a key element of upping pressure on Russia, as well as a means of funding Ukraines defence at a time when many EU governments are grappling with tight budgets or deficits.

Following a meeting with EU foreign ministers on Wednesday, the EUs high representative for foreign policy, Kaja Kallas, said using the frozen assets would send the strongest message to Moscow, that it cannot wait us out, adding that we need to make this decision fast.

An EU diplomat said the overwhelming majority of member states feel there is an increased urgency to take decisions, referring to using the frozen assets for Ukraine. Under any scenario there is a large need for financing for Ukraine.

EU leaders are due to discuss the idea at a summit on 18 and 19 December, having already pledged to meet Ukraines funding needs. Kyiv is estimated to need 136bn to maintain its defence and keep the country running in 2026 and 2027.

The Belgian government said it wanted to see a legal text and has faulted the lack of detail about risk-sharing with the other 26 member states if the plan goes wrong.

Brussels has also called for legal proposals on common EU borrowing to fund Ukraine, using unspent funds in the EU budget as the guarantee. De Wever argues this option would be cheaper than using the assets, once the risks are factored in.

The commission has suggested money for Ukraine could be funded by common borrowing on capital markets, but member states are unenthusiastic. Germany, Sweden, as well as central and eastern European states and von der Leyen, argue the frozen assets plan is the best option.

The commission says the scheme does not equate to confiscation of the Russian assets.

EU diplomats admit the plan is fraught with complexity, not least because it requires a unanimous decision  including Hungarys Kremlin-friendly government  to ensure the Russian assets remain frozen in perpetuity. Some say that even under a best-case scenario the frozen assets plan could take months to yield funds for Ukraine and that other short-term bridging loans could be needed.
Blue Moon (Press handout)

The great American lyricist Lorenz Hart (Ethan Hawke) collapses on a side street one rainy night in New York at the age of 48. This is the prologue of Richard Linklaters new film, Blue Moon, his latest collaboration with Hawke and an expectedly poignant one from the prolific director.

The film quickly waltzes from this rainy street to the bar at Sardis restaurant in Manhattan, to an evening of reflection and sorrow seven months prior. That evening is the opening night of the hit musical, Oklahoma!, which Hart leaves early. He heads to Sardis to talk the night away before an audience of three  a bartender (Bobby Cannavale), an enlisted pianist on leave (Jonah Lees) and the writer E.B. White (Patrick Kennedy).

Hart slates Oklahoma!, hating its shallow Americana kitsch but fully aware of its soon-to-be-stratospheric status. Hes jealous of its writer, Richard Rodgers (Andrew Scott), as the two were until recently a hugely successful songwriting duo. Together, they wrote iconic songs like My Funny Valentine, The Lady Is a Tramp, and of course the titular Blue Moon, but Rodgers grew tired of Harts unreliability and alcoholism and partnered with Oscar Hammerstein II (Simon Delaney) instead. Rodgers and Hammerstein would go on to be legendary, getting off to a flying start with Oklahoma! and going on to write award-winning shows like Carousel, South Pacific, The King and I and The Sound of Music in the golden age of musical theatre, the 1940s and 50s.

Andrew Scott and Ethan Hawke star in Blue Moon (Sony Pictures Classics/PA)

On the evening of Linklaters film, then, Hart is a bitter man. Bitter and drunk with beauty wherever he finds it. To  or rather at  those in attendance, he delivers a non-stop commentary on song, the screen and the stage, frequently recalling his favourite line from Casablanca  Nobody ever loved me that much  and gushing over Elizabeth Weiland (Margaret Qualley), a beautiful Yale student half his age who doesnt return his affection. There is a great deal of vulnerability to Hawkes Hart, not just owing to his diminutive height (less than five feet) and unfortunate comb-over, but more to his wounded heart, his intense insecurity, his evident genius and yet his fading relevance.

When Elizabeth arrives, the old Hollywood glamour about Qualley slots right into this believably-rendered crowd of Broadway socialites, and later, Andrew Scott convincingly steps into frame as Rodgers, swanning into the bar with the rest of his posse to await the first newspaper reviews of Oklahoma! Hart knows success when he sees it and so does Rodgers  though gracious and serious, Rodgers cant help but feel rather buoyed by the exuberant praise hes showered with on this intoxicating evening. This, of course, leaves Hart all the more bitter, and allows for Hawke and Scott to really flex their acting muscles in some painfully awkward scenes where the two dance around their frustrations with each others creative approaches, a confusing concoction of friendship, anger, gratitude, jealousy and pity swirling between the two. There is much tension between them  Hart longs to write emotionally complex shows and prefers satire, and Rodgers questions whether theres something wrong with sentimentality. Hart says its too easy, but Oklahoma!s success reminds us of Blue Moons wartime setting  this is an America that wanted to laugh, wanted to cry, and wanted the guy to get the girl. For all Harts genius, it's just not what the people want. Regard and love seem to have deserted him.

The events of Blue Moon unfold solely in this one location, which works in the films favour. It allows for an incredibly deep exploration of desperation, the creative mind, and what it is to be loved. The acting is very strong  Qualley is especially excellent in one scene where she tells the eager/enamoured Hart about a confusing college fling  and Robert Kaplows screenplay and dialogue take us on a smooth, perfectly-paced tour around Sardis smoky bar and Lorenzs cigarette heart.

It is one night, one location, and brings the imagined to life: it imagines Harts feelings on Oklahoma!s opening night and was inspired by letters exchanged between Hart and Elizabeth. It is its own moment in time  it feels impossibly sad but still chooses not to be overly melancholic. It allows us to simply exist with him for a little while, unobserved, and swirl the bitter dregs of bourbon shots in solidarity. In the films final moments, the camera slowly zooms away from the scene, and although we do know how Harts life ends, its as if were just stepping back from this captured moment  thats all for tonight.

Blue Moon is in cinemas from 28th November
"Yellow Day is a powerful reminder that when we stand together, hope becomes action. Creating a world free from intimidation takes courage and we're proud to lead this journey" said Elise Auvachez Millot, Vice-President, Public Affairs, Government Relations and Corporate Sustainability at BRP. "To everyone who wore yellow, shared their voice, and amplified the message around the world, thank you for speaking up in favor of workplaces and communities where everyone feels safe, seen and respected.''

BRP pledged to make a donation for every public post featuring photos of participants wearing yellow on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn using the hashtag #RideOutIntimidation on Yellow Day. Thanks to an incredible participation from its community, BRP was able to make generous donations to organizations with programs dedicated to raising awareness and putting an end to bullying: Abrace - Programas Preventivos (Brazil), Fondation Tel-Jeunes (Canada), Fundacion Saloma para el Avance de la Educacion A.C. (Mexico), Project Rockit (Australia), Tyttojen Talo (Finland), CESABI (Mexico), Tandem Kinderschutzzentrum (Austria), Patouch (Switzerland), and Stand for the Silent (United States).

A Wave of Yellow on Instagram Reels

To show their unwavering support for the cause, five BRP ambassadors teamed up with a charity of their choice for a Yellow Day Instagram Reel. BRP donated CAD $27,000 to each of these five charities to support their work and contribution to the fight against bullying. Click the links below to watch the videos:

Ski-Doo ambassador  Craig McMorris x McMorris Foundation

Can-Am Off-Road ambassador  Dustin Jones x One Tribe

Sea-Doo ambassador  Bri Andrassy x The Little Legs Big Heart Foundation

Can-Am Motorcycles ambassador  Ellis Spieza x Boys & Girls Club of the Austin Area

Can-Am 3-wheel ambassador  Kellie Raspberry x Kidd's Kid

Australia Lights Up for the Cause

Thanks to BRP's partner Bully Zero , Australia's leading organisation delivering programs on cyber safety, bullying prevention, wellbeing and resilience, more than 20 monuments and main roads across Australia were illuminated with yellow lights in the days leading up to Yellow Day. These included Melbourne Town Hall (VIC), Newcastle City Hall (NSW), Story Bridge (QLD), Parliament House (SA), Sky Ribbon Gateway Bridge (WA), and Launceston Town Hall (TAS). This vibrant show of solidarity is another way in which BRP's Yellow Day helps spark conversations and raise awareness against bullying.

Since 2022, BRP has invested over CAD $10 million in charitable contributions through its Ride Out Intimidation program. To find out about how BRP is driving change beyond Yellow Day, click here .

About BRP

BRP Inc. is a global leader in the world of powersports products, propulsion systems and boats built on over 80 years of ingenuity and intensive consumer focus. Through its portfolio of industry-leading and distinctive brands featuring Ski-Doo and Lynx snowmobiles, Sea-Doo watercraft and pontoons, Can-Am on and off-road vehicles, Quintrex boats and Rotax marine propulsion systems as well as Rotax engines for karts and recreational aircraft, BRP unlocks exhilarating adventures and provides access to experiences across different playgrounds. The Company completes its lines of products with a dedicated parts, accessories and apparel portfolio to fully optimize the riding experience. Committed to growing responsibly, BRP is developing electric models for its existing product lines. Headquartered in Quebec, Canada, BRP had annual sales of CA$7.8 billion from over 130 countries and employed approximately 16,500 driven, resourceful people as of January 31, 2025.

www.brp.com

@BRPNews

Ski-Doo, Lynx, Sea-Doo, Can-Am, Rotax, Quintrex, and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

SOURCE BRP Inc.
Ryan Wedding at the Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City in 2002 - Adam Pretty/Getty Images North America

So talented was Ryan Wedding that he gained a spot on Canadas national ski team aged just 15.

Three decades later, the 44-year-old  whose nicknames include El Jefe, meaning The Boss, and Giant  has been described by the FBI as the most dangerous and prolific drug dealer since Pablo Escobar.

Wedding stands accused of ordering a hit on a witness and hiring assassins to murder rival traffickers, earning him a place on the FBIs 10 most wanted list of fugitives. He is now holed up in Mexico under the protection of the countrys powerful Sinaloa cartel, US investigators say.

Born in Thunder Bay, Ontario, to wealthy parents who owned the Mount Baldy ski resort, Wedding grew up carving the slopes in the provinces rugged northern landscapes.

By 2002 he was representing Canada at the Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, where his dream faltered. He finished 24th, far short of the podium, and of the expectations that had followed him since childhood. Prosecutors later said that disappointment marked a turning point.

Ryan Wedding, 44, is charged with murder, witness tampering, money laundering, and drug trafficking

Six years after Salt Lake, Wedding travelled to San Diego with two men to buy 24 kilograms of cocaine, where they met a dealer who was operating undercover with the FBI. Wedding and his companions were arrested, thrusting the former Olympian into a criminal world that would define the next decade of his life.

Wedding went from shredding powder on the slopes at the Olympics to distributing powder cocaine on the streets of US cities and in his native Canada, Akil Davis, the assistant director of the FBIs Los Angeles office, said.

At his trial in 2009, his lawyer argued he had been duped by an experienced drug dealer and career criminal. Wedding was convicted of conspiracy to distribute cocaine and sentenced to four years in prison. Having already spent two years in custody, he apologised to his family for his stupid and irresponsible decisions.

In the past 24 months Ive spent in custody, Ive had an opportunity to see first-hand what drugs do to people, and honestly, Im ashamed that I became a part of the problem for years, he said. I guess I lost my way.

Wedding is in hiding in Mexico under the protection of the Sinaloa cartel

Weddings remorse seemed so genuine that the judge imposed a lighter sentence, meaning he was freed with time served in Dec 2011. But his remorse did not last. Within months, Wedding had founded a sprawling drug empire, one that would ultimately bring him to the attention of the FBI.

Last Tuesday, he was charged with murder, witness tampering, money laundering, and drug trafficking. His indictment depicts a vast operation run with the help of Mexican cartels, moving hundreds of kilograms of cocaine from Colombia into Mexico by boat and plane.

b'

'

Semi-trucks transported the drugs across the Mexican border to a hub in southern California, before they were distributed across the US and into Canada.

Pam Bondi, the attorney general, said the organisation imported roughly 60 metric tons of cocaine each year into Los Angeles. He controls one of the most prolific and violent drug-trafficking organisations in this world, she said. He is currently the largest distributor of cocaine in Canada.

The empire, the justice department says, thrived on fear. Wedding allegedly placed a multimillion-dollar bounty on a federal witness, posting pictures of the man and his wife on a now-defunct Canadian website.

b'

'

The witness was killed in Medellin before he could testify. A Canadian assassin network was also allegedly used to murder another victim and two members of a family accused of stealing a shipment.

But Wedding did not act alone, nor did he solely rely on the help of the Mexican cartel. His wife, Miryam Andrea Castilla Moreno, allegedly laundered money and helped him conduct acts of violence, prosecutors said.

Protection also came from Edgar Aaron Vazquez Alvarado, known as the General, a former Mexican police officer. Deepak Balwant Paradkar, a Canadian lawyer, allegedly facilitated bribery, murder, and introductions to traffickers.

The manhunt for Wedding continues, and there is a sense that the walls may be closing in.

Last Tuesday, 10 individuals, including Paradkar, were arrested.

The FBI is offering a $15m reward for information leading to Weddings arrest - Andrew Harnik/Getty Images North America

One of those was Rasheed Pascua Hossain, a 32-year-old man from Vancouver who went by the alias JP Morgan.

He faces extradition to the US on charges of conspiracy to distribute and possession of cocaine.

According to the criminal indictment, Hossain managed and laundered the Wedding Criminal Enterprises drug proceeds.

On Monday, a trucker from Toronto was sentenced to six years in US federal prison for attempting to smuggle cocaine into Canada on behalf of Weddings alleged drug gang.

Ranjit Singh Rowal was the first Canadian resident to be sentenced in connection with the FBIs two-year investigation into Wedding and his associates.

Yet Wedding, at least for now, remains at large, holed up in Mexico under the protection of the Sinaloa cartel.

Last week, the bounty for his capture was raised to $15m (11.5m).

But officers warned he would stop at nothing to evade capture, suspecting he may even undergo plastic surgery to avoid being caught and continue to run his lucrative criminal empire.
Zarah Sultanas spokesman has said she wants Your Party to be a home for all socialists - Leon Neal/Getty Images

Communists are planning to disrupt the inaugural Your Party conference, The Telegraph can disclose.

A group called the Socialist Unity Platform (SUP) is set to fight for a caretaker committee to take over Jeremy Corbyns new hard-Left party this weekend.

The group, which includes members of the Communist Party of Great Britain and the Socialist Workers Party, is in contact with Zarah Sultana, the partys co-founder, raising concerns that she has been aware of the planned takeover.

Your Party organisers are understood to be planning to hire extra security in response to the potential disruption.

The caucus state on their website: We believe that unity between workers and socialist movements, groups and organisations will build power to intervene in Your Party.

Ms Sultana is set to headline a fringe event the SUP is running at the conference on Saturday evening.

Ms Sultanas spokesman denied the claims that she knew about the plan, saying: Zarah has spoken with individuals across the entire Left and believes the party must be the home for all socialists.

Smearing her with these accusations is not only false, but destructive to what we are building here as a socialist mass movement.

Party membership for migrants

The caucus is set to call for migrants, who do not have the right to vote in British elections, to be allowed to become members of Your Party.

They will also call for members to be able to hold memberships to other national parties as well as Your Party  a position Ms Sultana has openly endorsed.

The Telegraph understands Ms Sultana has pushed repeatedly for a co-leadership option with Mr Corbyn but has been shut down.

The conference is set to vote for either a single leadership model or for a collective leadership, with no option for co-leadership.

Ms Sultana compared her relationship with Mr Corbyn to Noel and Liam Gallagher in October, following a series of spats.

Lewis Nielson, the national secretary of the Socialist Workers Party (SWP), criticised Your Party at a rally held by Ms Sultana on Friday evening, claiming that its chaotic founding reflects the worst of Labour Party culture. He has denied any knowledge or involvement in the alleged planned takeover.

However, he was expelled from the party on the eve of the conference over his role in the SWP.

In a public statement, he said: This decision has been made by an unelected clique with no democratic mandate.

This decision should be reversed at the conference.

Your Party was initially seen as a potential challenger to Labour and Reform UK. At the time of its launch, Mr Corbyn said: Its going to be fun.

But the group quickly descended into chaos. In September, Ms Sultana launched a membership drive without Mr Corbyns permission, and accused her co-founder of running a sexist boys club.

They fell out again after she failed to transfer 800,000 held in a bank account from the partys original launch to another account backed by Mr Corbyn.

All money and data were intended to be transferred to Your Party after it was registered with the Electoral Commission on Sept 30. The Telegraph understands that Ms Sultana offered to transfer 600,000 and retain the rest in case of future legal or administrative expenses, but this was rejected by party organisers.

Ms Sultana has now transferred 400,000, with further instalments to be paid as soon as possible, her spokesman said.

Mr Corbyn, who is understood to have not wanted Ms Sultana as co-leader, recently apologised to supporters for the drama.

He told The New Statesman: Im sorry if you are all disappointed. We are all socialists. Its never going to be an easy road, but I want to make things work.

Some close to the partys founding saga believe months of chaos leading up to the conference meant potential members who were moderately Left-wing fled to the Greens  meaning hard-Left economic groups risk dominating the conference.

A YouGov poll on Thursday appears to confirm organisers fears. The largest fall in interest in Your Party is among people who voted for the Greens in the general election last year, with less than one in three now saying they would consider backing the outfit, a sharp drop from 58 per cent in July.

The Workers Party of Great Britain, headed by George Galloway, has written publicly to Your Party organisers hoping to form electoral agreements with the new hard-Left party, but have not received a response, The Telegraph understands.

One source close to Your Party said: The summer spat has lost Green-friendly voters  meaning only the economically socialist have stayed.

Another source agreed, expressing concerns that only the Marxists are left now.

A spokesman for the SUP said: If an emergency motion is being moved that calls for a reconstituted conference with democratically elected branch delegates and an emergency steering group, then we will urge our members and supporters to vote in favour of it.

The Socialist Workers Party and the Communist Party of Great Britain were contacted for comment.
A protester waves the National League for Democracy (NLD) flag during a demonstration against the military coup in Yangon in 2021. As the US looks towards ending Temporary Protective Status for Myanmar nationals in January 2026, people fear deportation and imprisonment in their home country. Photograph: AFP/Getty Images

Aung* was finishing his studies in New York when Myanmars junta tried to conscript him into the civil war raging in his homeland.

Terrified by the idea, Aung applied for Temporary Protective Status (TPS) in the United States, hoping that by the time he finished his degree the conflict might have calmed. Instead, the war has only escalated.

Now, as the countrys ruling junta plans to hold what are widely seen as sham elections this December, the US government has revoked temporary legal status for citizens of Myanmar  a decision that has put the lives of 4,000 nationals like Aung in jeopardy, all while lending legitimacy to the countrys military government.

Related: Leaked footage and prison logs reveal Aung San Suu Kyis life in detention

Myanmars military seized power in a February 2021 coup, overthrowing the elected government and violently suppressing dissent. A patchwork of armed resistance has emerged since, with some fighters joining longstanding ethnic armies as the junta increasingly uses airstrikes and fresh conscripts to counter opposition.

But the Trump administration says the juntas planned election, and successful ceasefire agreements, show progress in the south-east Asian nation.

The situation in Burma has improved enough that it is safe for Burmese citizens to return home, so we are terminating the Temporary Protected Status, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem announced this week.

The regime welcomed the decision, with spokesperson Major-General Zaw Min Tun telling media that Myanmar nationals in the US can return home to vote, extending a welcoming hand for them to participate in building a modern, developed, and progressive nation.

Im in limbo

The US Temporary Protective Status is short-term protection that shields foreign nationals from deportation to disaster zones and allows them the right to work. It will be revoked for Myanmar nationals on 26 January, in a move that has filled the diaspora community in the US with panic and fear.

We are some of the grateful few that had the chance to escape, but theres still a constant fear that looms over us about having to go back, says Aung, one of three Myanmar nationals who spoke to the Guardian on the condition of anonymity.

Aung has a student visa until 2026, but worries that once it expires he might be deported. After this weeks announcement, he has already started on an asylum claim.

Asylum provides a pathway to permanent residency, but it is granted to people who can show they face persecution on specific grounds. The TPS, by contrast, is short-term protection to people from countries hit by disaster, allowing them to work in the US while conditions at home remain unsafe.

Im not sure if Ill have a future here, he says, Im in limbo.

In 2019 Su Htet* arrived in Washington DC on a student visa and graduated in 2023. Although she is authorised to work she says the city feels increasingly scary with regular news of immigration raids.

After the 2021 coup, she organised virtual demonstrations and fundraisers for Myanmars striking civil servants. In June this year, officials visited her family home in Myanmar looking for her and her brothers.

Related: The 2021 Myanmar coup explained in 30 seconds

My friend and his siblings were arrested, beaten and tortured by the regime, she says. He was finally released, but hes no longer involved in anything.

Given her activism and her faith  she is Muslim in a country where ethnic and religious minorities have long borne the brunt of state violence  she fears that returning home is a real danger.

Just by appearance alone Id assume theyd question me. Googling my name, theyll see Ive spoken out against them, she says. Im pretty scared. Im alone here; I dont have any family with me.

Lungpi*, a Christian from an ethnic minority, secured a scholarship to study in the US. Soon afterwards, soldiers torched his town, leaving it in ruins, forcing his relatives to flee across the border. You can imagine, all their houses are burned, he says.

Lungpi was granted temporary protection and an education sponsorship, but once that expires, he says, theres a lot of anxiety.

Myanmar is far from being safe, he says. Id definitely be arrested if I had to return.

International Crisis Group senior Myanmar adviser Richard Horsey says Myanmar remains deeply unsafe with no meaningful improvements in security or governance.

Elections planned for the coming weeks are provoking further repression, he says, adding that those who returned would almost certainly come under scrutiny and face serious risk of detention or mistreatment.

By framing these developments as justification for ending temporary protection, Washington risks reinforcing the regimes narrative and could signal to other governments that they can restart ties based on elections, rather than real improvements, he warns.

Aung, who has built a life in New York, is determined not to fall into the juntas hands.

Their aim is to oppress, he says. As long as youre young and educated in Myanmar, youre always an enemy of the state.

*Names have been changed
Chloe Hayes with her daughter Mia Lucas who died in Becton Centre, under Sheffield Childrens NHS Foundation Trust, where she had been detained under the Mental Health Act (Hudgell Solicitors/PA)

The mother of a 12-year-old girl who took her own life after being sectioned has vowed that she will never forgive the doctors she blames for failing to diagnose an underlying brain disorder.

Chloe Hayes criticised a failure to provide appropriate care to her in her time of need after an inquest jury concluded that inadequate testing at Nottinghams Queens Medical Centre (QMC) had possibly contributed to the death of her beautiful little girl, Mia Lucas.

The trust overseeing QMC has since issued an apology to Ms Hayes and her family, saying that it was truly sorry that further crucial tests were not conducted.

Mia Lucas was found unresponsive in her room at the Becton Centre in January 2024 (Family Handout/PA)

Mia was found unresponsive in her room at the Becton Centre, which is part of Sheffield Childrens Hospital, on 29 January 2024.

The jurors heard that Mia was suffering from undiagnosed autoimmune encephalitis, a swelling of the brain, which would have been the cause of the acute psychosis she was exhibiting.

This diagnosis only emerged partway through the nine-day inquest, after a pathologist revealed that she had just received new post-mortem examination test results, provoking shock in the courtroom and tears among Mias relatives gathered in the public gallery.

On Thursday, the jury found that the failure to perform a lumbar puncture at QMC before Mias transfer to the Becton Centre had possibly contributed to Mias death.

The jury also said there was a failure at the Becton Centre to respond adequately to Mias risk of self-harm.

In a statement after the inquest, Ms Hayes said: It has been devastating to listen to how, when she needed specialist healthcare for the first time in her life, she was so badly let down.

She was let down at the Queens Medical Centre in Nottingham, who wrongly decided there was no underlying physical cause of her psychosis, and failed to carry out appropriate testing.

I believe they simply dismissed her and looked to pass her on to mental health services as quickly as possible, which led to her transfer to the Becton Centre.

Ms Hayes continued: Her mental health spiralled deeper out of control there, as she was not being treated for her condition, and the many failings and lack of care meant sadly she wasnt properly protected from harming herself.

She said: My beautiful little girl has lost her life and I will never forgive the Queens Medical Centre or the Becton Centre for failing her.

Ms Hayes said the Becton Centre had proved to be completely unsuitable for [Mia], and one which failed to keep her safe.

She added: I have never believed for a moment that Mia ever wanted to take her own life. She was always a happy, healthy child and had so much to live for.

Ms Hayes said she wanted everyone to know that Mias extreme behaviour was only evident in the final few weeks of her life, and that for the other 12 years, she was a beautiful soul who loved life and loved her family, and thats how we want her to be remembered.

She said Mia was a happy, fun, friendly girl who had so much to live for.

The inquest heard that Mia had begun to began to behave strangely over Christmas 2023  including hearing voices and attacking her mother  and that her family became so concerned that she was taken by ambulance to QMC on New Years Eve.

She was found to be experiencing an acute psychotic episode and was sectioned under the Mental Health Act.

Chloe Hayes said the Becton Centre had proved to be completely unsuitable for her daughter Mia and had failed to keep her safe (Family Handout/PA)

The jury of five women and four men heard that blood tests and an MRI scan were untaken at QMC, both of which were negative, and that doctors ruled out a physical cause for Mias psychosis.

But doctors at Nottingham decided not to order further tests, on brain-wave function and on spinal fluid via a lumbar puncture  tests that might have revealed the autoimmune encephalitis, which is very rare.

Mia was transferred to the Becton Centre on 9 January and died three weeks later.

In a narrative conclusion, the jury said: The failure to undertake a lumbar puncture at this point [at QMC] meant that potential indicators of autoimmune encephalitis were missed. This possibly contributed to Mias death.

The jury added that the information passed between QMC and the Becton Centre provided an inappropriate level of assurance that organic causes had been ruled out.

In relation to the Becton Centre, the jury concluded: Insufficiently robust communication and management of risk led to a failure to respond adequately to Mias risk of self-harm.

The jury also said that a rare presentation of a rare condition had provided particularly complex challenges in relation to diagnosis and care.

Mia was described as a fun, friendly and happy girl who had so much to live for (Family Handout/PA)

The jurors found, on the directions of the senior Sheffield coroner Tanyka Rawden, that Mias cause of death was compression of the neck, caused by acute psychosis, caused by autoimmune encephalitis.

They heard how Mia self-harmed in her three weeks at the Becton Centre, but the coroner said there was not enough evidence for the jury to find that staff handovers on 29 January had contributed to Mias death.

Ms Rawden said she would be writing to the health secretary, Wes Streeting, along with a number of professional bodies, to express her concerns about the lack of national guidance on testing for autoimmune encephalitis.

She said she was satisfied she did not need to write to Sheffield Childrens Hospital after hearing about a number of changes that had been made at the Becton Centre.

Ms Rawden said she would wait six months, to allow Nottingham University Hospitals to finish its own investigation, before considering writing a letter to that trust.

Ms Hayes solicitor Amy Rossall, of Hudgell Solicitors, said: Weve heard many comments about lessons being learnt as a result of what happened to Mia, and those learnings will hopefully help to avoid other families losing their children to the condition.

Dr Manjeet Shehmar, medical director at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, said: We accept the coroners outcome in court today and apologise to Mias family for not identifying autoimmune encephalitis while she was in our care.

While this is an incredibly rare condition and initial tests were negative, we recognise that further testing may have had an impact on her future, for which we are truly sorry.

Dr Jeff Perring, executive medical director at Sheffield Childrens NHS Foundation Trust, said: We are deeply sorry for Mias death and recognise the profound impact this has had on those who loved her.

Dr Perring outlined the changes made at the Becton Centre following a review of Mias care, and said a CQC inspection in September had found it to be safe and staff there caring and responsive to patient needs.

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.
Participation in the 130bn Security Action for Europe scheme was promised as part of Sir Keir Starmers post-Brexit reset deal with the EU - Carl Court

Post-Brexit negotiations for British membership of a major EU weapons programme to deter Russian aggression have ended in failure.

Participation in the 150bn (130bn) Security Action for Europe (Safe) scheme was promised as part of Sir Keir Starmers post-Brexit reset deal with the EU.

Officials were unable to bridge gaps between Brussels and London over how much the UK should pay for access to the defence spending boosting scheme.

The EU was demanding a fee of up to 6.5 billion (5.7bn), while the UK offered a maximum of 300m (262m). That fee would allow British arms firms to bid for contracts worth up to half of the war chest.

Negotiations were carried out in good faith, but our position was always clear: we will only sign agreements that are in the national interest and provide value for money, said Nick Thomas-Symonds, minister for European Union relations.

Talks in Brussels broke up after it became clear that an end-of-November deadline to break the impasse would be missed.

It means British defence firms will not be able to pitch for projects on preferential terms in the first round of Safe, a programme designed to boost arms production.

The companies can still compete for the contracts on less advantageous third country terms.

While it is disappointing that we have not been able to conclude discussions on UK participation in the first round of Safe, the UK defence industry will still be able to participate in projects through Safe on third country terms, Mr Thomas-Symonds said.

Safe is open by design

The Telegraph understands that there remains goodwill on both the UK and EU sides despite the failure to reach a deal at this time.

It is hoped that a compromise can be found in time for the second round of funding.

Brussels is continuing to negotiate with Canada over Safe membership and is aiming to find a deal before Sundays deadline for the first round of funding.

Throughout these intense negotiations, our negotiators have engaged constructively and in good faith with the UK to get a deal over the line, Thomas Regnier, European Commission spokesman, told The Telegraph.

Even if an agreement could not be found at this time, lets not forget that Safe is open by design. Without an agreement, the UK can still participate in up to 35 per cent of Safe procurements.

He added: We remain fully committed to delivering our ambitious UK-EU Security and Defence Partnership.

London and Brussels were making progress in the other ongoing reset negotiations over alignment, the Erasmus+ scheme and the UK rejoining the EUs Emissions Trading Scheme.

Mays reset deal included a UK-EU defence pact, which unlocked negotiations over membership of the scheme. As part of the reset, Sir Keir agreed a 12-year fishing rights deal with the EU.

One issue contributing to the failure of negotiations this week was long-standing French demands that EU companies be given as advantageous a deal as possible.

Other reset negotiations continue, including on a deal where the UK will align with EU plant and animal health rules in an effort to boost trade.

Mr Thomas-Symonds said: We continue to make strong progress on the historic UK-EU May agreement that supports jobs, bills, and borders.

In the last fortnight, we have launched negotiations on a food and drink deal and an energy deal that will bring down bills and slash red tape for business.

He added: From leading the coalition of the willing for Ukraine to strengthening our relationships with allies, the UK is stepping up on European security in the face of rising threats and remains committed to collaborating with our allies and partners.

In the last year alone, we have struck defence agreements across Europe and we will continue this close cooperation.

The European Commission was asked for comment.

The Government wants to take part in Safe because of US demands on Nato allies to boost defence spending at a time when public budgets are tight and the threat from Russia high.

Mark Francois, shadow Armed Forces minister, said: So much for Sir Keir Starmers much vaunted EU reset! Asking us to pay billions into an EU procurement fund, from which UK firms might receive absolutely no contracts in return was always deeply flawed  but with the current 2.6 billion efficiency savings drive underway within the MoD, they couldnt afford it anyway. Another Labour shambles on defence.

Sir Nick Harvey, former Armed Forces minister and chief executive of the European Movement UK, said:

The UKs failure to negotiate access to the European defence fund is a major blow to our defence industry. This is a project potentially worth billions to our economy, and something we would automatically have been a part of before Brexit.

Bureaucratic wrangling

The reset announced in May left many contentious issues for further negotiation later. Since then, European capitals have warned the UK must pay into the EU budget for the first time since Brexit to get the reset over the line.

The bloc is divided over whether Britain should pay into European regional funds to rejoin the EUs carbon trading market as part of the push to reach net zero.

Member states want Britain to ditch a cap on student numbers coming to the UK and for them to pay the same fees as domestic students if the UK rejoins the Erasmus+ exchange programme.

The UK wants a 50 per cent discount on the fee to rejoin Erasmus, arguing that more EU citizens come to Britain than the other way around. Brussels is pushing for a mere 30 per cent discount that would last for only one year.

Naomi Smith, chief executive of Best for Britain, which promotes closer UK-EU ties, said: In Ukraine, brave men and women stand between us and the tyrant on our doorstep.

Now is not the time for bureaucratic wrangling. It is time for liberal democratic allies across the EU who are serious about defending freedom and deterring aggression to get their act together, secure UK access to Safe, and prioritise keeping our continent secure. After all, ensuring lasting peace was the EUs founding rationale.
Kanal is housed in a remodelled former Citroen garage in north-west Brussels. Photograph: Kanal

A year before its scheduled opening on 28 November 2026, building works at Kanal, a new contemporary art museum in Brussels, are running on time.

Housed in a remodelled former Citroen garage on the north-western edge of the city centre, the centre is 95% complete. Curators are putting the finishing touches to an opening show that will feature works by Matisse, Picasso and Giacometti on loan from the Centre Pompidou in Paris. Trilingual wall texts in English, Dutch and French have already been signed off.

With 12,500 sq metres of exhibition space over five floors, an architecture centre, restaurants and live performance venues, the museum will be bigger than the original Tate Modern in London, the Palais de Tokyo in Paris and the Guggenheim Bilbao. The investment reflects a will to turn the administrative capital of Europe into a cultural destination in its own right.

But in recent weeks, the conversation around Kanals opening has moved from when to if. A year and a half on from Belgian regional elections, a functioning government for the semi-autonomous Brussels-Capital region is still nowhere in sight. The only certainty seems to be the predicted austerity measures and mooted plans to slash Kanals budget by more than half.

We never anticipated that 12 months before opening, and 18 months after the election, there would be no government, said the museums director, Kasia Redzisz. If there isnt a decision on the budget, we risk having to stop construction, threatening the entire projects future.

Plans to equip the Belgian capital with a museum that doesnt just showcase but also collects contemporary art go back at least a quarter of a century. Neither Brussels modern art gallery Wiels nor the more classical Bozar Centre for Fine Arts have their own collections. In the absence of such an institution, collections by significant Belgian artists such as Marcel Broodthaers have been bought by MoMA in New York and shipped to the US.

In 2001, the American curator Michael Tarantino was recruited to head up an arts centre but the project was hampered by political infighting and shelved after Tarantinos death in 2003.

Thirteen years later, under the watch of the governing socialist PS party, a compromise was reached to transform the 1934-built former Citroen garage on the Place de lYser into Kanal.

The sheer scale of the plans drew criticism from the outset.

Its a nation state-sized project done by a regional government, a technocratic decision that has been amplified out of all proportion by consultants and advisers, said Dirk Snauwaert, the director of Wiels, which does not receive structural financial support from the Brussels region. Who thinks this is doable?

The formalised partnership with the Centre Pompidou, limited to five years after Kanals opening, will cost Brussels 2m (1.75m) a year. The connection with the Paris arts complex has been greeted with scepticism by some Flemish speakers, who make up 60% of Belgiums population but who are a minority in the capital, raising suspicions of French colonial attitudes.

Kanal is a really significant project, but the relationship with the Pompidou was complicated and confusing from the outset, said Chris Dercon, the Belgian former director of Tate Modern who now runs Fondation Cartier in Paris. Why do we need the Pompidou collection in Brussels when we have some of the best private collections in Europe right here in Belgium?

Kanals supporters say such controversies are inevitable for a project with global ambitions and that similar objections were levelled at arts centres now seen as indispensable to the fabric of their cities such as Tate Modern and Pariss own Centre Pompidou.

Redzisz said that Kanal, under her leadership, would focus on championing contemporary artists who were either born in or who live in Belgium, and said the museum would create 780 direct and indirect jobs and inject 144.4m into the Brussels economy every year.

The arts complex includes 20,000 sq metres of public space and a playground designed by the Turner prize-winning collective Assemble. Kanal has also organised workshops to prepare children from 27 nearby schools for the opening.

Its absolutely essential for Brussels to have this space, said Ann Demeester, a Belgian art historian who is the director of the Kunsthaus Zurich in Switzerland. This is the symbolic heart of Europe, a city full of artists that is as edgy as Berlin used to be.

The deadlock in the Brussels-Capital region has been running for 537 days and could surpass the previous record.

We must find 1bn in savings out of a total budget of 7bn, said a spokesperson for the Francophone centrist party Les Engages, one of six parties at the negotiating table. All departments and projects will have to contribute to this collective effort and the Kanal project will not be exempt.

A spokesperson for the Flemish Green party said: The current ambitions of Kanal, a project that falls outside the core competencies [of the Brussels regional government], will have to be severely curtailed. We will have to see what is possible with a smaller budget.

According to reports in the newspaper LEcho, the liberal party MR has proposed reducing Kanals 35m annual operating budget by 60%, though it has not made this proposal official.

Wielss Snauwaert is urging officials to find savings in the costly tie-in with the Pompidou. We all hope our money wont be wasted, he said. But the wise decision would be to cut ties with the Pompidou and invest the money in culture instead.

Redzisz said: There is a new fiscal reality, which we understand, and we are prepared to take a cut like everyone else.

I still believe that politicians will realise the huge potential of this project as a destination, as a landmark for Brussels. Abandoning Kanal now would amount to cultural suicide.

 This article was amended on 28 November 2025. An earlier version said Kanal will be bigger than the Tate Modern; in fact, it will be larger than the original Tate Modern before its extension in 2016.
The dramatic moment National Guard members traded fire with a gunman in Washington, D.C., on Thanksgiving Eve has been caught on video.

Two West Virginia National Guard members were shot, just blocks from the White House, Wednesday afternoon. U.S. Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, died from her injuries, while U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, remains in critical condition, President Donald Trump said Thursday.

Photos and video, obtained by The Wall Street Journal, shows National Guard members reacting to the attack and running down the street. The footage appears to have been taken by a witness who was inside a car driving past the street corner.

The shooter can be seen looking around the corner, holding a revolver in his right hand, while a National Guard member runs down the street.

Seconds later, the National Guard member can be seen firing shots back at the attacker. The video also shows fallen National Guard members lying on the street, the WSJ reports.

U.S. Marshalls and National Guard troops are seen after reports of two National Guard soldiers shot near the White House in Washington, D.C. (AP)

Police have identified 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal as the suspected shooter (Reuters)

The suspected gunman came around the corner, raised his arm with a firearm and discharged at the National Guard members, according to Jeffery Carroll, the executive assistant chief of the Metropolitan Police Department. The video of the incident corresponds with Carrolls account, the WSJ reports.

Investigators have identified the suspected shooter as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national who entered the U.S. in 2021 and was living in Bellingham, Washington. Lakanwal was taken to a local hospital in the aftermath of the shooting, and is now in custody.

The incident was described as a brazen, targeted attack, by D.C. Attorney General Jeanine Pirro, who announced Friday that Lakanwal will face a first-degree murder charge.

Evidence markers sit on the ground after two National Guard members were shot near the White House (Reuters)

Officers handle police tape at the scene of the shooting in downtown Washington, D.C., on Wednesday (AFP via Getty Images)

He was previously charged with three counts of assault with intent to kill while armed and three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence.

Trump announced Thursday that Beckstrom died from her injuries, calling her a highly respected, young, magnificent person and outstanding in every way.

Shes just passed away, the president said. Shes no longer with us. Shes looking down at us right now. She was savagely attacked, shes dead now.

Attorney General Pam Bondi told Fox News that the 20-year-old had volunteered to work in D.C. during the Thanksgiving holiday week. Beckstrom was caring and tenderhearted, her former boyfriend, Adam Carr, told The New York Times. The 20-year-old enjoyed nature and road trips, and dreamed of having a career in the FBI, according to Carr.

National Guard members and other personnel stand outside of the MedStar Washington Hospital Center after the death of West Virginia National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom (REUTERS)

Meanwhile, Wolfe is still fighting for his life and in very bad shape, Trump added. He joined the National Guard in February 2019 and serves as a U.S. Air Force staff sergeant assigned to the Force Support Squadron, 167th Airlift Wing.

Andy is easily one of the strongest, determined and God-fearing men I know. I have no doubt he has the willpower in him to come out on top of this, his friend, Brooke Davison, told The New York Times.

Law enforcement officials have described the attack as an ambush, and are investigating it as an act of terrorism.

Lakanwal is believed to have arrived in the U.S. four years ago under former President Joe Bidens administration, following the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. Lakanwal had worked with the U.S. government, including the CIA, as a member of a partner force in Kandahar, Afghanistan, CIA Director John Ratcliffe said.

Lakanwal applied for asylum in 2024, and was granted it earlier this year under the Trump administration.

Following the attack, Trump said his administration will reexamine every single alien from Afghanistan who has entered our country under Biden and we must take all necessary measures to ensure the removal of any alien from any country who does not belong here or add benefit to our country.
Hello, hello again: the Beatles. Photograph: PR

Dear readers, the circus has left Canberra, which means weve reached the slow slide into 2026. Praise be. Before you dive into this weeks selection, feel free to nominate your favourite read of a somewhat lighter persuasion. Ill be on Team Animalia (unless The Eleventh Hour finally gets its due).

1. Surviving a horror trek in Chilean Patagonia

Five hikers died in Chiles Torres del Paine national park earlier this month after winds hit 190km/h and temperatures plummeted to 5C. Some Australians were among a group of about 30 who tried over several hours to save them. Caitlin Cassidy gets their perspective on what survivors have dubbed a terrible, avoidable tragedy.

Communication failures: There were no rangers in that area of the park that day due to mandatory voting in Chiles presidential election. Police and additional backup didnt reach the scene until about 24 hours after an SOS was first issued.

How long will it take to read: Four minutes

2. Attaining nirvana can wait

So says Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara, the controversial Sri Lankan monk who believes it is his duty to act against any threat to Buddhism. In his homeland the perceived enemy within is Islam  and in towns where Gnanasara has shared his anti-Muslim rhetoric, mob violence has often followed.

Sonia Faleiro got an audience with the spiritual leader turned politician in Sri Lanka, where a leader of the countrys largest Muslim political party declared: The yellow robes are untouchable.

Origin story: Gnanasara says he began his monastic living in cave-like dwellings in dry tropical forests. In Colombo, a very different story about Gnanasaras past has circulated.

How long will it take to read: 12 minutes.

3. How a WhatsApp saga spiralled into two parents wrongful arrest

Maxie Allen and Rosalind Levine questioned the governance of their childs school in a school WhatsApp group they set up and on social media. The school, north-west of London, was bombarded with derogatory social posts and complained to police. Six uniformed officers turned up on the couples doorstep, sparking a global conversation that even Elon Musk weighed in on.



Alexandra Topping catches up with some of the WhatsApp groups members, for whom the controversy is still so fresh they agreed to speak only under a pseudonym.

***

Youre looking at other people, like, was it her? Whos screenshotting our messages? And that itself was awful.  Sarah (not her real name)

How long will it take to read: Four minutes.

Further reading: Sean Szeps on the hell that is a parents WhatsApp group.

4. Why the bodys internal wetsuit matters

Desk jockeys, theres a reason your body doesnt move as fluidly as you like when you try to exercise  your fascia has tightened. Is there a way to use the continuous, all-encompassing network that wraps around and connects everything in the body to our advantage? Joel Snape asks the experts.

What it looks like: If youve ever carved a joint of meat, its the thin, silvery layer wrapped around the muscle.

How long will it take to read: Three minutes.

5. The four narratives theory of the Fab Four

Another year, another remastered treasure from the Beatles archives. This time its The Beatles Anthology documentary from 1995 getting the spit and polish treatment. Why are we still picking over the entrails of a band that broke up 55 years ago? Stuart Maconie investigates the celebrated four narratives theory that has kept them relevant.

The ultimate chronicler? Mark Lewisohn, who since the 1980s has been combing through the vaults so studiously that the fourth narrative takes his name, is working on part two of a three-volume biography. His mission, while some of the players are still alive: To get at the truth if I can and let the rest fall away.

Further reading: Stuart Heritage is full of superlatives for the remastered series. Alexis Petridis reckons the new episode is evidence the cupboard is bare.

Sign up

If you would like to receive these Five Great Reads to your email inbox every weekend, sign up here. And check out out the full list of our local and international newsletters.
Former Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal says prostate cancer statistics cannot be ignored and believes tests should be readily available after experts advised against screening for most men in the UK.

The UK National Screening Committees draft recommendation argued that there were more harms than benefits to using the PSA test for screening all men.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting says he will examine the evidence ahead of the final decision in March, by which point Van Gaal hopes more thought is given to the decision.

Louis van Gaal managed United between 2014 and 2016 (Mike Egerton/PA)

The Dutchman, who managed United between 2014 and 2016, revealed in April 2022 that he had undergone successful treatment on prostate cancer.

Van Gaal told the Press Association: Every country has its own norms and values, but the statistics are also important.

I think many men suffer from prostate cancer, that should be a reason to at least institute a screening test for prostate cancer.
France has agreed to intercept small boats in the Channel in a change of tactics to stop so many migrants travelling to the UK illegally, according to reports.

Le Monde said the policy change follows a letter sent by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to French president Emmanuel Macron urging "it is essential that we deploy tactics this month" and "we have no effective deterrent in the Channel".

France previously said it would review its maritime rules to allow police to intervene when boats are in shallow water, rather than requiring them still to be on land.

But the change appeared to have stalled and UK border security commander Martin Hewitt told MPs last month it was "frustrating" it had taken time to bring in the rules.

A No 10 spokesman said: "As you know, we never comment on reported leaks of private correspondence.

"You'll be aware that the Prime Minister and President Macron speak regularly on this topic, and we always want to go further on our work with our French partners on tackling illegal migration.

"Our close co-operation with the French continues and has prevented over 20,000 crossings this year.

"That close co-operation obviously includes our landmark one in, one out scheme and, for the first time ever, we've secured agreement from the French to review their maritime response so their border enforcement teams can intervene on shallow waters."

Le Monde said it had seen a document dated November 25 that the framework for the interventions has been established.

The BBC said the French maritime police force confirmed to the outlet that French security forces will be allowed to stop small boats at sea, but only before passengers are picked up.

The move comes as 39,292 people have made the journey across the English Channel so far this year.

The arrivals have already passed the number for the whole of 2024 (36,816) and 2023 (29,437) but the number is below the total for 2022 (45,774).

Meanwhile, the Home Office confirmed on Thursday that 153 migrants have been sent back to France and 134 have arrived in the UK under the UK-France returns deal aimed at deterring people making the dangerous journey across the English Channel.

Under the "one in, one out" pilot scheme with France, which came into force in August, people who arrive in the UK by small boat can be detained and returned to France, in exchange for an equivalent number of people who apply through a safe and legal route.
PRAGUE, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Zentiva, a leading European generics pharmaceutical company, has received the esteemed ESG Transparency Award 2025 by the EUPD Group. This award recognises companies that excel in clarity, structure and transparency in their Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) reporting.

The awards were presented at the ESG Summit 2025, as part of the European Sustainability Week 2025, hosted by the EUPD Group. The recognition is a testament to the efforts of industry leaders who have embedded sustainability in their business strategy and communicate it transparently according to relevant standards.

Zentiva received recognition at the Excellence Level of the ESG Transparency Award 2025 for its high degree of clarity, accessibility and transparency in sustainability reporting. The Excellence Level distinction places Zentiva among the top organisations in Europe in terms of transparent reporting of its ESG disclosures.

The company excelled in the presentation of a well-structured and strategically grounded sustainability approach that incorporates current European requirements into governance and reporting processes. Furthermore, the disclosure of climate related information, including the use of renewable electricity at European production sites and its integration into a broader long term climate strategy reached a high level of transparency. In addition, Zentiva offered a full calculation of the indirect carbon footprint with externally reviewed methodology to strengthen data integrity and clearly explained its governance structures, highlighting the role of the Audit Committee in approving sustainability related plans. These results underline the determination of Zentiva to strive to drive positive change for society and the environment.

Steffen Klink, COO of the EUPD Group commented: "We proudly congratulate Zentiva on its exceptional commitment to transparent ESG communication, clearly demonstrating accountability by publicly detailing material impacts, risks, and opportunities across key environmental, social, and governance areas. This dedication to holistic performance, including ambitious decarbonization targets and robust global policies on ethical conduct and responsible sourcing, sets a definitive benchmark for industry excellence."

Ines Windisch, Head of Corporate Affairs & Sustainability at Zentiva, commented: "We are truly proud to receive this award for our sustainability reporting. It acknowledges a journey that is far more than just compliance - it is about learning, testing, piloting, and acting with courage and transparency. At Zentiva we understand small steps can create a big impact, and we must act today for a sustainable tomorrow. Sustainability is not just a responsibility; it is an opportunity for people and partners to create a lasting positive impact for future generations. This award is a milestone that inspires us to keep moving forward."

About Zentiva

Zentiva provides health and wellbeing for all generations, with focus on developing, producing, and delivering high-quality, affordable medicines to more than 100 million people in over 30 countries across Europe and beyond. Zentiva has four wholly-owned manufacturing sites and a broad network of external manufacturing partners to ensure supply security. Zentiva employs more than 5,000 unique talents, bonded together by a commitment to the people who depend on our medicines every day. Visit us at www.zentiva.com

About the EUPD Group

Since its foundation in 2000, the EUPD Group has been developing innovative, integrated solutions for sustainability-oriented companies. We lead companies to success with our data-based market research and consulting services in the areas of energy, social and ESG. On the one hand, we have specialised in technology sectors such as photovoltaics, energy storage, heat pumps and electromobility under the topic of "Energy". In the "Social" category, we also offer services in areas such as occupational health management and equal opportunities, while "ESG" focuses on corporate sustainability and responsibility issues, including their transparency in reporting. Our aim is to help companies become and remain competitive, create optimal framework conditions and develop business opportunities. www.eupd-group.com

About the ESG Transparency Award

The ESG TRANSPARENCY AWARD honours European organisations that have already anchored forward-looking sustainability concepts in their company and communicate these transparently in the form of a sustainability report. These pioneers serve as role models because they change the world and prove that profitability and sustainability are not opposites, but successful strategies for a future worth living. The EUPD Group has developed the ESG Transparency Evaluation Standard to objectively assess transparency, accountability and structural quality of ESG reporting. It draws on the most relevant European and international guidelines of sustainability reporting and serves as the methodical basis of the ESG Transparency Award. www.esg-transparency-award.de/en/

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2660891/5411039/Zentiva_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Zentiva
Jeremy Corbyn (left) and Zarah Sultana take part in a discussion on Your Party, their new political movement, in October. Photograph: PA Images/Alamy

At an early meeting to set the path for what would become Your Party, participants quickly agreed on one thing: given the cliches about leftwingers forever falling out, at all costs they must avoid a descent into factionalism.

Six months on and the Liverpool venue hosting this weekends inaugural Your Party conference has been warned to expect potential disruption, including stage invasions by disgruntled members representing particular wings. Extra security guards have been hired.

How did an idea with so much potential traction and reach  hundreds of thousands of people signed up to support the idea of a movement spearheaded by Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana before it even existed  become so quickly and comprehensively bogged down in power struggles and infighting?

The slightly simplified answer, one agreed on at least in private by people from all sides, is rooted in escalating tensions between Corbyn, portrayed as indecisive and at times ambivalent about yet another political venture at the age of 76, and Sultana, the combative former Labour MP who has enraged colleagues by making major decisions unilaterally.

The ground zero for a split so comprehensive that, insiders say, Sultana has for the past three months mainly communicated with her supposed colleagues through lawyers, came on 3 July, or terrible Thursday as one calls it. This was when the Coventry South MP announced she was resigning from Labour and would jointly lead a new entity with Corbyn.

The news followed a meeting of the embryonic organisation earlier that day at which the co-leadership was discussed. There was, however, one problem: Corbyn and his allies firmly believed that no decision was made.

Their surprise at Sultanas fait accompli was briefed to the media, while an internal WhatsApp group descended into intense disagreement. It took until the next afternoon for Corbyn to respond publicly, with a tweet pointedly saying that discussions were ongoing.

It highlights the contrasting and often incompatible personalities of the partys protagonists, one where Sultana either believed Corbyns lack of a firm answer on co-leadership was a tacit yes or simply chose to bounce him into it.

Even allies of Corbyn say the former Labour leader can be hard to pin down, with an aversion to open conflict and a tendency to, as one person involved in the project put it, disappear to his allotment for 24 hours without his phone.

Jeremy can be a touch avoidant, one ally said. Another source involved in the project was more blunt: Thats always been the problem  he wont say anything. You have this whole industry of Jeremy-whisperers, trying to interpret what he means.

A source close to Corbyn disputed the idea he was wary about leading the party and said it was for members to decide. The idea he disappeared to his allotment was, they added, complete nonsense.

Corbyn said: Lots of people have said a lot of things about me. I will carry on representing my community in parliament and speaking out against inequality, poverty and war.

The first push for Corbyn to lead a new leftwing party came before last years general election, at which he stood in his Islington North seat as an independent. These overtures were rebuffed. There are some who view him as still slightly reluctant, but urged on by Karie Murphy, his chief of staff when he was Labour leader, and his wife, Laura Alvarez.

After the election, Corbyn suddenly found himself one of five left-leaning independents, with Shockat Adam, Adnan Hussain, Ayoub Khan and Iqbal Mohamed winning urban, formerly Labour seats on Gaza-focused platforms. Two months later they jointly formed the Independent Alliance.

By this point, discussions had begun about the possibility of launching a new Corbyn-focused, not necessarily Corbyn-led, political movement.

While a platform of specific policies will have to await agreement on a leader or leaders, those involved in Your Party argue they will have a voice distinct not just from Labour but also the Greens, with a focus on community organising, internationalism, nationalisation and redistribution.

But from the start, there were difficulties. The first meeting was very disorganised, one source recalled. It started late as they were waiting for Jeremy to turn up and then the agenda kept changing.

The coming months produced progress, including an outline of the partys philosophy, but also disagreements: for example, attempts to create a powerful role of general secretary, viewed as a means for Murphy to take over.

Into this slightly ponderous mix arrived Sultana, whose punchy social media presence reflects an MP keen to get things done, but one with a tendency to fall out with people who could be allies.

Zarah has made her profile by being combative and theres clearly a place for that, said one observer. But her diplomacy has been shockingly bad. There has been a complete failure to either produce an alternative plan, or win people over.

An ally of Sultana said she sought to work collaboratively but was excluded from decision making process, and that she remained fully focused on the party and its mission.

If the divide created on 3 July was bad, worse was to come when Sultana unilaterally launched a membership portal, collecting reams of data and about 800,000 in donations and levies.

Your Party had spent 13,000 on a software system intended for this process and Sultana planned to use it for her membership drive, the Guardian has been told. But she was thwarted when Corbyns allies learned of her plans and sent a staffer into the organisations offices at 3am to change the passwords, sources claimed.

Sultana pressed on, using her own software, prompting fury from Corbyn. He accused Sultana of creating a false membership system that had collected money and data without authorisation, and said Your Party had referred Sultana to the Information Commissioners Office. In response, Sultana said she was consulting defamation lawyers over what she called baseless claims from a sexist boys club.

Since then, the tensions have become less dramatic, if no less entrenched. Much of the recent disagreement has centred on how the money can be passed from a holding company set up before Your Party existed to the party itself, with counterclaims of delay and of a failure to understand the basics of company law.

Possibly more damaging was the departure of two of the independent MPs, Hussain and Mohamed. The former lashed out at what he called persistent infighting and a toxic, exclusionary and deeply disheartening culture, rancour based in part on issues such as transgender rights.

For now, Adam and Khan remain in place, but the departures highlight the difficulties in creating a party encompassing Sultana and Corbyn, along with the often more socially conservative electoral bases of the other independents.

At one point we had six MPs and four different factions, one source said. Another observer blamed what they called bridge burning by Sultana. This is not to say that independent MPs are flawless, but if youre going to build a big thing you need to work with a lot of people.

As members travel to Liverpool to decide on everything from a leadership structure to a name  Your Party was only ever an interim choice  opinions differ on what might come next.

I think its toast, one participant said, noting how the splits in Your Party have been mirrored by a surge in membership and attention for the Greens under their new leader, Zack Polanski.

Some omens remain unpromising. Sultanas decision to hold a self-organised pre-conference rally in Liverpool on Friday evening, billed an official Your Party event, annoyed others in the party.

And although Your Party members are barred from also being members of other parties, Sultana is backed by the Socialist Unity Platform, a lobby organisation comprising groups including the Communist party of Great Britain. It is from here that possible disruption is predicted.

Related: Your Party is a mess. Heres what they could learn from Farage and Polanski | Zoe Williams

Others see the conference as a chance to move forwards, especially if members choose the option of collective rather than individual leadership, thus preventing a long and possibly brutal contest between Corbyn and Sultana.

One reason for going so soon to a conference is because we cant decide anything among ourselves, so it has to go to the membership, one insider said. Then, maybe, a committee can move forward like normal human beings.

Despite the drama, there is seemingly an appetite for a leftwing challenger to Labour that is not the Greens, shown by the mass sign-ups and by about 3,000 people heading to Liverpool for an event only weeks in the planning.

This is a long-term project, said one person who is, at least for now, involved in it. Who knows where we will be in a couple of years? There are likely to be areas of the country the Greens cant get into, and we could cooperate.

By then we might be saying: Do you remember that absolutely mental period at the start? But this conference has to provide some stability and some structure. It doesnt need to be perfect, but it does need that.

The best public interest journalism relies on first-hand accounts from people in the know.

If you have something to share on this subject, you can contact us confidentially using the following methods.

Secure Messaging in the Guardian app

The Guardian app has a tool to send tips about stories. Messages are end to end encrypted and concealed within the routine activity that every Guardian mobile app performs. This prevents an observer from knowing that you are communicating with us at all, let alone what is being said.

If you don't already have the Guardian app, download it (iOS/Android) and go to the menu. Select Secure Messaging.

SecureDrop, instant messengers, email, telephone and post

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.
Holiday retail revolution? Nearly 80 percent of shoppers want to do all their spending at small businesses

This Black Friday, if consumers had their wish, theyd spurn lengthy lines at big-box retailers and national chains, and opt for the cozy confines of a local independent store.

Thats according to a survey of 2,202 adults. conducted earlier this month for AT&T, which found that 77 percent of respondents would do all of their holiday shopping at small businesses if they could.

Additionally, the survey found that 77 percent of shoppers would buy from a small business instead of a large retailer when prices are equal.

The shopping decisions made by consumers are critically important to the nationwide and local economy, Heather Perry, CEO of family-owned coffee company Klatch Coffee, told The Independent by email.

There are implications for local sales tax providing additional funding for local government services, opportunities to provide employmentand when you buy from a local small business, you're also increasing sales and service opportunities for upstream providers in your community.

Spending with small businesses keeps more dollars circulating locally, one expert said (Getty Images)

The survey arrives ahead of Small Business Saturday on November 29, a nationwide initiative that encourages shoppers to support local, independent businesses.

What drives a shoppers preference for small businesses?

AT&Ts survey found that small businesses offer specific advantages over large retailers. For example, 73 percent of consumers said they find better, more unique holiday gifts at small businesses.

Shoppers also hinted that small businesses may be easier to communicate with. The survey found that 65 percent of consumers prefer calling a small business to get their questions answered compared to 35 percent of respondents who would rather call a large retailer.

Consumers also believe that shopping at small businesses provides an economic boost to their area, with 67 percent saying they shop at small businesses because they want to support their local economy.

If youre running short on gift ideas for family and friends, a trip to a local business could be the solution. While not specific to small businesses, the AT&T survey found that 72 percent of shoppers say they get ideas from shopping in person compared to using social media.

How do small businesses benefit local economies?

Imagine scanning your holiday shopping list and, instead of finding all those gifts at a large retailer and dropping them into your online cart, you hop in your car and shop at local small businesses instead.

What kind of impact would that have on those businesses, and how would it benefit your local economy? If the majority of shoppers adopted the practice of shopping at local small businesses, the impact could be significant, according to a 2021 stud y from the American Independent Business Alliance.

The study found that 48 percent of the money you spend at local small businesses is recirculated locally, while that figure is less than 14 percent for chain stores.

Nearly half of the money spent at small businesses returns to the local economy (Getty Images)

That local economic benefit is multi-dimensional, too, said Andrew Kanzer, North America managing director at small business accounting software firm Xero.

Spending with small businesses keeps more dollars circulating locally, supports job stability, strengthens community supply chains, and reduces the economic consolidation that has accelerated in recent years, Kanzer said in an email to The Independent.

For shoppers hesitant to swap big-box stores for local small businesses, Kanzer noted that devoting some - not all - of your spending to local shops can make a difference.

If more shoppers shifted even a portion of their Black Friday budgets to , the result would be stronger, more resilient regional economies with greater reinvestment into hiring and innovation, he said.
Authorities in Hong Kong warned renovators of a high-rise complex about fire hazards just a week before it was engulfed by the Chinese city's deadliest fire in decades.

At least 94 people died and almost 280 were unaccounted for after a massive fire tore through seven of the eight towers at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po on Wednesday.

Firefighters had mostly contained the fire by Thursday evening before one apartment burst into flames again in the early hours of Friday. Rescuers scoured the smouldering remains for survivors as the fire services department vowed to extinguish the blaze by the end of the day.

The Hong Kong Labour Department said it had inspected Wang Fuk Court as recently as 20 November and 16 times overall since renovation work began last July.

Less than a week before the inferno erupted, the department had reportedly notified the contractor of the need to implement fire safety measures. This was one of a series of warnings issued to the contractor about the fire safety measures.

The department told Bloomberg it had received complaints about issues relating to the scaffolding in September 2024.

Burned buildings at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po district of Hong Kong on 28 November 2025 (AP)

The blaze started on the external scaffolding of a 32-storey tower, engulfed its bamboo scaffolding and construction netting, moved inside the building, and eventually leapt to nearby high-rises, likely aided by windy conditions.

In the wake of the fire, police arrested two directors and an engineering consultant of Prestige Construction, which was contracted to perform maintenance on the building, on suspicion of manslaughter. Authorities accused the grossly negligent firm of using unsafe building materials.

Authorities also raided the companys office and seized bidding documents, a list of its employees, 14 computers and three mobile phones.

Firemen at the Wang Fuk Court residential estate in Hong Kong (AFP via Getty)

The fire has put a spotlight on the use of bamboo scaffolding in the city, a decades-old practice, after bamboo lattices came crashing down in flames. However, some experts have argued that the bamboo scaffolding retained its structural integrity even after it was engulfed in flames for hours and that the fire could have rapidly spread because of low-quality nets.

The city's development bureau has discussed gradually replacing bamboo scaffolding with metal scaffolding as a safety measure.

The Labour department said in a statement its inspectors had consistently monitored the installation of netting wrapped around the towers and found the quality certificate met official fire-proof standards.

A veteran electrical and building services engineer told the South China Morning Post that several residents noted they did not hear the fire alarms and questioned why the safety system was not functioning during a renovation project.

If the system was not working, did they give the fire services a heads-up that renovation on the system was underway? Ho Wing Ip asked, referring to the contractor. So that the department could make special arrangements in case of an emergency.

Secretary for security Chris Tang said investigators discovered foam boards had been used to cover the windows of the only block in the eight-tower complex that escaped the blaze.

These foam boards are highly flammable and the fire spread very quickly, so we found their presence unusual, he said.

Thick smoke and flames rise as a major fire engulfs apartment blocks at Wang Fuk Court in Hong Kong (AFP via Getty)

Firefighters continued to work at the smouldering complex on Friday morning. "We will endeavour to effect forcible entry to all the units of the seven buildings, so as to ensure there are no other possible casualties," deputy fire services director Derek Chan told reporters.

The confirmed death toll rose to 94 early on Friday. Two of the dead were Indonesian nationals working as domestic helpers, the countrys consulate said. Hong Kong has around 368,000 domestic workers, mostly women from low-income Asian countries who live with their employers.

Among the dead was also hero firefighter Ho Wai Ho, 37, who died rescuing residents from one of the buildings.

He was found collapsed at the scene of the fire and immediately taken to the Prince of Wales Hospital, the fire department said. Despite efforts, he succumbed to his injuries at 4.41pm local time, according to the city administration.

Ho served with the department for nine years. Authorities and his friends paid tribute to his gallantry and selfless devotion to duty.

The fire was Hong Kong's deadliest since 1948, when 176 people died in a warehouse blaze. It has prompted comparisons to London's Grenfell Tower blaze, which killed 72 people in 2017.

Hong Kong leader John Lee said his government would set up a HK$300m (29m) fund to help residents while some of China's biggest listed companies announced donations.
Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla volunteered to resign and step back from public roles while cooperating with a police investigation and working to bring the men home, her party said. Photograph: EPA

A daughter of the former South African president Jacob Zuma has resigned as an MP, after being accused of tricking 17 South African men into fighting for Russia in Ukraine by telling them they were travelling to Russia to train as bodyguards for the Zumas uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party.

Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, 43, the most visible and active in politics of her siblings, volunteered to resign and step back from public roles while cooperating with a police investigation and working to bring the men home, the MK chair, Nkosinathi Nhleko, said at a press conference in Durban.

Magasela Mzobe, another MK official, told reporters: As far as we know, the resignation has got nothing to do with admission of guilt or the organisation finding her guilty, adding that MK party had not been involved with the group of men who ended up trapped on the frontline of the war in Ukraine.

On 22 November another of Zumas daughters, Nkosazana Zuma-Mncube, filed a police report alleging that her sister Zuma-Sambudla and two others, Siphokazi Xuma and Blessing Khoza, had recruited the men, including eight of their family members. Zuma-Mncube did not suggest a motive for her sisters alleged recruiting in the statement she made to police.

Zuma-Sambudla then filed an affidavit of her own, claiming she was a victim of deception, misrepresentation and manipulation by Khoza after the men were recruited for what she had believed was a legitimate paramilitary training course.

Zuma-Sambudla said she went to Russia herself for a month of the training, in excerpts from her statement to police published by local media: I experienced only non-combat, controlled activities. I was never exposed to combat, never deployed.

She claimed that she had shared information innocently with others, who then volunteered to go to Russia themselves. She added: I would not, under any circumstances, knowingly expose my own family or any other person to harm.

The South African outlet News24 said it had received videos from three of the men trapped in Ukraine, in which they alleged Zuma-Sambudla persuaded them to sign contracts in Russian that they did not understand and said she would spend a year in Russia training alongside them.

Zuma, MK partys president, was at the press conference but did not speak. The 83-year-old has been married six times and currently has four wives and more than 20 children. Polygamy is recognised in South Africa via a law governing customary marriages.

Zuma was ousted as South Africas president in 2018, after being accused of directing a period of huge corruption known as state capture, allegations he has always denied. He founded MK party in December 2023, winning 14.6% of the vote in the 2024 national elections.

On Tuesday, police confirmed they were investigating, after receiving both affidavits. Zuma-Sambudla did not return calls and messages seeking comment. Khoza and Xuma could not be reached for comment.

On 6 November the office of South Africas president, Cyril Ramaphosa, said it was investigating how the men became trapped in eastern Ukraine and was working to bring them home, after receiving distress calls for assistance.

The men were lured to join mercenary forces involved in the Ukraine-Russia war under the pretext of lucrative employment contracts, it said, noting that South Africans were not permitted to assist or fight for foreign militaries without government authorisation.

Zuma-Sambudla has consistently posted her support for Russia and its president, Vladimir Putin, online. We Love You Both LOUDLY And UNAPOLOGETICALLY So  Ill Drink To That she posted on X, then Twitter, with a photo of her father and Putin making a toast, on 22 February 2022, the day Russia invaded Ukraine. In May, she posted on X: I Stand With Russia, alongside photos of the Hermitage Museum in St Petersburg, although it was not clear if she had taken the photos herself or when they were taken.

South Africas African National Congress party, which forced Zuma to stand down as president in 2018, has long been close to Russia after the Soviet Union supported its struggle against apartheid. South Africas government, whose foreign policy is still controlled by the ANC although it is now in a coalition, has refrained from criticising Russia for invading Ukraine. It has tried to present itself as a neutral arbiter in the search for a peace deal.

Zuma-Sambudla is on trial on charges of inciting violence in posts on X, during deadly riots that erupted in 2021 when her father was sent to jail for contempt of court. She has denied the allegations.
What is Labours Employment Rights Bill  and how has it changed?

The government has come under fire for rowing back on a manifesto commitment as it changes a key element of its landmark workers bill.

Currently in its final stages, Labour said its Employment Rights Bill would strengthen the collective voice of workers as part of its Plan to Make Work Pay launched ahead of the general election last year.

The raft of major changes  thought to be spearheaded by former deputy prime minister Angela Rayner  included the proposal to reduce the qualifying period for workers to make an unfair dismissal claim from 24 months to the first day in a new job.

This has now been cut down to six months instead, in light of a series of constructive conversations between trade unions and business representatives, a government update said. It added that the change was necessary to ensure the bills passage through parliament.

Business secretary Peter Kyle denied that the move broke a manifesto promise (PA Wire)

While Labours pre-election manifesto said it would consult fully with businesses, workers, and civil society on how to put our plans into practice before legislation is passed, it also pledged protection from unfair dismissal from day one.

Business secretary Peter Kyle insisted that the concession is not a breach of Labours manifesto, saying that unions and employers have gone through the difficult process of working together to find a compromise, adding: Its not my job to stand in the way of that compromise.

But Labour MP for Middlesbrough and Thornaby East, Andy McDonald, branded the move a complete betrayal and vowed to push for its reversal.

He said: We cannot support that halfway measure, adding: This is a wrong-headed move and I will campaign to have this concession reversed.

Here is an overview of how the bill will change the workplace for employees across the UK.

New day one rights

The Employment Rights Bill is now expected to make only parental leave and sick pay available from day one of the job for all workers.

However, protection from unfair dismissal will now only be secured after six months, rather than on day one as was the case when the bill was introduced.

Exploitative zero-hour contracts banned

New measures will ban what Labour terms exploitative zero-hour contracts, to make sure workers get a contract that reflects the number of hours they work. The rules will also require workers to be compensated for any changes in shifts that are made without reasonable notice.

New measures would ban what Labour terms exploitative zero-hour contracts (Getty/iStock)

Fire and rehire outlawed

Controversial fire and rehire practices are when an employer fires one or several employees to offer them a new contract under different terms  generally, less favourable ones.

The issue gained attention in 2021 when Tesco proposed firing some of its distribution staff and rehiring them on lower pay. In 2024, the supermarket chain lost a Supreme Court battle with the Usdaw union over the row. Tesco accepted the judgement, which it said affected a very small number of colleagues.

Labours plan stated: Labour will end the scourges of fire and rehire and fire and replace that leave working people at the mercy of bullying threats. We will reform the law to provide effective remedies against abuse and replace the inadequate statutory code brought in by the government with a strengthened code of practice.

Strengthen union rights

The government says the bill will modernise trade union legislation by giving trade unions greater freedom to organise, represent and negotiate on behalf of their workers.

Two of the key ways it will do this is through repealing the Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Act 2023, and most of the Trade Union Act 2016.

The first bill, introduced by the Conservatives, gave employers in certain sectors such as health and transport the ability to issue work notices during industrial action to ensure a certain number of people had to remain at work. It was criticised as undermining the right to effectively strike.

In repealing the second bill, Labour will increase the mandate for industrial action  the amount of time after the ballot that the action can continue  from six months to 12. It will also reduce the notice that the union must give employers from 14 days to ten.
Lando Norris fears Oscar Piastri will eat into his championship lead at Saturdays sprint race in Qatar after a mistake allowed his title rival to take pole position.

Norris had been on course to topple his McLaren team-mate in qualifying before he ran through the gravel trap at the final corner to leave him third on the grid.

Mercedes George Russell split the McLarens  lapping just 0.032 seconds slower than Piastri under the lights of the Lusail International Circuit  while Max Verstappens championship bid suffered a blow after he could manage only sixth.

Verstappen ran off the track with his first run  sustaining slight damage to the floor of his Red Bull  and while he managed to get a lap on the board, he failed to trouble the leaders.

Verstappen was outqualified by team-mate Yuki Tsunoda for the first time, with the Japanese driver one place ahead of him on the grid. Lewis Hamiltons woeful run continued. He will start the 25-lap dash to the flag from 18th.

Norris needs to outscore both Piastri and Verstappen by two points to secure his maiden title here and avoid a season finale in Abu Dhabi next weekend.

But while he starts three places clear of Verstappen, Norris expects Piastri will take at least a point out of his championship advantage.

The winner of the sprint, which takes place prior to qualifying for Sundays main event, receives eight points with points decreasing by one for each subsequent position.

(PA Graphics)

The pace was there but I made a mistake in the last corner and I just didnt put it together, said Norris, who finished 0.230secs behind Piastri.

I would be stupid to not try and win. Lets see what I can find overnight but it is impossible to overtake here so I think I will probably finish third. Getting ahead of George off the line is probably the best I can hope for.

While this marked a rare boost for Piastri, Verstappen endured a poor evening by his usual high standards.

Verstappen aborted his first attempt in Q3 and was straight on the radio: This f****** car man. It is bouncing like an idiot. He finished nearly half-a-second off the pace.

Looking ahead to Saturdays sprint, Verstappen said: With this balance, it will not be a lot of fun. It will be more about trying to survive I guess, and then making some changes.

A week after he qualified 20th and last in Las Vegas, Hamilton suffered further misery with a second early bath in seven days.

Max Verstappen had a sprint qualifying to forget (David Davies/PA)



The seven-time world champion, who insisted on Thursday he had no regrets about his move from Mercedes to Ferrari, headed into the final runs in Q1 facing elimination, and although he clocked a faster lap to temporarily haul himself out of the drop zone, he soon fell down the order as others improved.

He finished nine tenths off Verstappens Q1 pace-setting lap and fourth tenths adrift of Charles Leclerc in the other Ferrari.

Ah, man, the car wont go any quicker, said Hamilton over the radio. Leclerc progressed to Q3 and will start ninth on Saturday.

Hamiltons mood had improved little when he reached the media pen for his television interviews.

Asked if the car was tricky to drive, Hamilton replied: Same as always. He was then asked if there were any positives he could take into tomorrow. The weathers nice, he said.
Champion-in-waiting? Lando Norris can clinch his first Formula 1 world title at the Qatar Grand Prix on Sunday (Getty Images)

Lando Norris is on the cusp of winning his first F1 world title.

Despite a disaster in Las Vegas, in which both Norris and McLaren team-mate Oscar Piastri were disqualified after it was found that their cars' skid blocks had worn out too much, Norris remains the heavy favourite to end Max Verstappen's four-year championship reign.

That mistake saw Norris, who finished second on the Strip, miss out on 18 points as the victorious Verstappen drew level with Piastri.

Norris remained 24 points ahead of the pair, though that lead was cut to 22 after Piastri won the sprint race in Qatar, with Norris finishing third and Verstappen fourth.

Current F1 standings

Norris - 396 points Piastri - 374 points Verstappen - 371 points

Norris can still be confirmed as champion on Sunday, though he will have to do things the hard way after a mistake in qualifying led to the abandonment of his final lap and Piastri taking pole position at the Lusail International Circuit as he looks to take the title fight down to the final weekend in Abu Dhabi.

How can Lando Norris win F1 title this weekend?

Norris will be crowned champion if he outscores Piastri by four points, and finishes ahead of Verstappen in any position, in Sunday's main event.

The top-10 finishers in a grand prix earn points, with the winner picking up 25 points, second place 18 points, third place 15 points, fourth place 12 points and then at two-point intervals until ninth gets two points and 10th gets one point.

Still in the fight: Oscar Piastri (AFP via Getty Images)

The title race landscape is far clearer following the Qatar sprint race, in which Piastri converted his pole position into a comfortable victory to reduce Norris' advantage at the top to 22 points with 50 to play for.

Norris finished third, while Verstappen made up two places to take the chequered flag in fourth.

However, the Red Bull driver now trails Norris by 25 points. George Russell started and ended the 19-lap dash in second for Mercedes.
People protest against the Trump administration in Indianapolis, Indiana, on 4 March 2025. Photograph: Jeremy Hogan/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

Hacked materials from the powerful rightwing thinktank the Heritage Foundation show that applicants to a Project 2025-branded effort to create a talent pool for the Trump administration cited the influence of Nazi political theorists and other far-right thinkers on their political views.

Not all applicants revealed in the hack ended up with Trump administration jobs, but some current appointees did make applications.

And amid a developing civil war on the right about the influence of the antisemitic far right  which has included internal dissension at Heritage  the materials show that at least seven members of a nationwide network of men-only, nativist and antisemitic clubs applied to work in the administration, revealing the extent to which the Republicans and the far-right have converged.

Hannah Gais, a senior analyst at the civil rights organization the Southern Poverty Law center, told the Guardian: Given Project 2025s reactionary goals, its no surprise that these applicants would cite any myriad of influences peddling such authoritarian and anti-democratic rhetoric.

Gais added: These are the fruits of the strategy that some activists have embraced of no enemies to the right. But its nevertheless telling that these applicants felt safe citing such radical figures.

The database and the hack

Project 2025 was a policy project by Heritage designed to influence and power the agenda of the second Trump administration along radical conservative lines.

One of the pillars of Project 2025 as it developed throughout 2023 and 2024 was to create a pool of politically-aligned candidates for staffing the new administration, according to media reports in 2024.

At that time, Project 2025 director Paul Dans said that the database was akin to a conservative LinkedIn, full of potential recruits likely to be a good fit for a Republican administration. Dans aimed to assemble some 20,000 potential recruits.

One way in which the database was grown was Heritages invitation for applications to the Presidential Administration Academy. The academy, and the open application process, were widely publicized in conservative media in early 2024.

Videos from that academys training curriculum leaked in August 2024, significantly raising public awareness of Project 2025.

The materials analyzed by the Guardian are applications for the Presidential Administration Academy. It contains 13,726 applications, a small minority of which are clearly intended to lampoon Heritage and the Trump movement.

Applicants were asked to characterize their political beliefs according to a drop-down menu, spell out their political philosophy, identify the primary influence on their politics, to name a book and a public figure who had influenced them, and then to say whether they agreed with political proposals such as whether the US should increase legal immigration.

Project 2025 was subject to a series of cybersecurity incidents from mid-2024.

In June 2025, the transparency non-profit Distributed Denial of Secrets (DDOSecrets) released the contents of a database containing more than 13,000 submissions to an online application form by individuals interested in working on the Project 2025 initiative. The identity of the hackers is unknown.

The Guardian sourced the data from DDOSecrets and analysed it.

All individuals named in this reporting were contacted for comment via contact information in their applications, and professional email addresses where these were available.

Sources at Heritage said they would not know the political views of applicants applying through a public link nor be able to screen them.

A Heritage spokesman said: The Guardian is a leftist gossip rag. Its dishonesty is matched only by its uselessness. We dont waste time answering its half-baked questions.

Carl Schmitt

Dozens of applicants expressed admiration for Carl Schmitt, a German political theorist who has been called the crown jurist of the Third Reich and whose intellectual legacy is inseparable from his collaboration with the Nazi regime.

Ville Suuronen, a research fellow at the University of Turku in Finland who has written extensively on Schmitts legal and political theories, said: After Schmitt joined the Nazi party in late April of 1933, he revolutionized his legal theory according to the ideological principles of National Socialism and did everything he could to legitimize the Nazi party and the policies of Adolf Hitler.

Suuronen added: Schmitt legitimized the murders of Night of the Long Knives by describing Hitler as the highest judge in Germany, and also characterized the Nuremberg Laws as the constitution of freedom and organized a deeply antisemitic conference The Jewry in Legal Science in Berlin in October 1936.

Applicants who cite Schmitt include Paul Ingrassia, who was last week tapped for a new job as deputy general counsel of the General Services Administration, leaving his former role as White House liaison to the Department of Homeland Security.

Last month, Ingrassias nomination for special counsel to the United States foundered after group chats leaked in which he told other participants that he had a Nazi streak and that holidays commemorating Black people should be eviscerated.

The Intercept reported in July that Ingrassias application was a part of the Project 2025 trove, but did not mention his expression of admiration for Schmitts books.

In the application, Ingrassia listed Carl Schmitts Concept of the Political, Political Theology, and Constitutional Theory among the books that had influenced him.

Ingrassias sister, Olivia Ingrassia, also now works in the Trump administration, also had a Project 2025 application exposed in the hack, and also cited Schmitt as an influence.

According to her LinkedIn account, Ingrassia has worked in the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) since August, after completing a four-month internship there earlier this year.

Under director Russell Vought, who once said of federal workers We want to put them in trauma, the OMB has aggressively moved to dismantle federal agencies and consolidate executive power. Theres no suggestion that Vought himself has praised Carl Schmitt.

Other Schmitt-positive applicants include a Heritage employee who has since landed in the administration. Max Matheu is now an attorney adviser at the State Department, according to his LinkedIn page.

Last year, he was still lead attorney in the Heritage Foundations own Oversight Project. Previously, he served as a congressional intern for Florida congresswoman Laurel Lee, and controversial former legislator Matt Gaetz, according to congressional information service LegiStorm.

For Heritage, he acted as an attorney in several Freedom of Information Act (Foia) suits brought against the US government following up on the blizzard of tens of thousands of Foia requests Heritage made during the life of the Biden administration.

In his Project 2025 application, in response to a question about which books have influenced him, Matheu nominated The Concept of the Political by Carl Schmitt, adding that The friend/enemy distinction is the cardinal concept that undergirds all politics. The Left has been making the distinction since Gramsci and other cultural marxists captured the media and academic institutions to subvert Heritage Americans and the shared ideals this country once held.

Matheus use of Heritage Americans invokes a slogan popular on the new nativist right that supports Donald Trump and the Maga movement. Critics have said it can be used to convey white nationalist sentiments in softer language, though Matheu does not identify as a white nationalist in his application.

Elsewhere in his application, Matheu wrote: Our specific social, cultural, and religious heritage define American politics. Our shared cultural identity is necessary to achieve the common good and share a unified political vision for conservative politics.

The Guardian reached out to Matheu directly for comment. A State Department spokesperson replied that in the future the Guardian should feel free to submit a formal inquiry rather than contact the individual via their personal email.

They added: The essay highlights how the left adopted and applied Schmitts philosophy against Americans, hijacking and corrupting traditional nonpartisan institutions like the media to expand its power, a reply that appeared to bear little relationship to Matheus application.

On the friend-enemy distinction, Suuronen, the academic critic of Schmitt, said For Schmitt, the ideals underlying liberalism  not only rational discussion, but also the idea of inviolable and universal human rights  were nothing but an illusion, and he developed a theory of the political, according to which the fundamental political distinction was that between the friend and the enemy. For Schmitt, politics was not about individuals, but about the potentially violent confrontations of homogeneous groups.

Other applicants teamed apparently racist sentiments with invocations of Schmitt.

Joe Amato, a former Publius fellow at the right-wing Claremont Institute listed as a member of Project 2025s advisory board in the Mandate for Leadership document it published in 2023 and currently chief of staff at an AI-driven law and regulation startup, according to his LinkedIn bio, wrote in his application that Carl Schmitts The Concept of the Political has most shaped my political philosophy for the moment we live in. Its central thesis is that the core of politics is the friend-enemy distinction.

He added: Given that the Left is waging an all out war against the Right, we must remember this distinction in all our actions. No Leftist or Democrat is our friend, nor any Republicans who oppose the America First agenda. If those on the Right want to actually win, we must support those friendly to us, and ruthlessly destroy our enemies.

In the application, he echoed beliefs associated with the Great Replacement conspiracy theory, writing, Its clear that the Democratic Party is importing a blue wave of voters to illegally register. This unprecedented wave of migration is nothing short of a barbarian invasion  Cities will be overrun and become like third world slums. Our women and young women will be raped and sexually assaulted. Our young men will be attacked.

According to his Claremont Institute biography, Amato received an inaugural Passage Prize for poetry.

In May 2024, the Guardian identified Jonathan Keeperman as the founder of Passage Press, the far-right publisher that sponsored the Passage Prize.

The Guardian has also reported extensively on Claremonts ties with a secretive far-right men-only network of fraternal lodges, the emergence of its board chair and biggest funder as a conservative megadonor, and its links to JD Vance staffers.

Claremonts links to the Trump movement have seen it labeled as the nerve center of the American right.

Gais, the SPLC analyst, wrote Even just within the United States, Schmitts theories have nurtured any number of anti-democratic impulses, ranging from the war on terror to the Maga rights extreme rhetoric against the left.

Bukele

Dozens of other applicants expressed their admiration for El Salvadors authoritarian president, Nayib Bukele.

Bukeles brutal prison system came into focus earlier this year when the Trump administration summarily deported hundreds of Venezuelans and Salvadorans to that country. According to a humanitarian organizations, some 250 of those deported endured systematic torture.

One applicant, Jackson Kitchin, now serves as a federal law clerk in the eastern district of North Carolina according to his LinkedIn profile, and previously clerked for the supreme court of North Carolina and the US Senate judiciary committee, according to his LinkedIn and the website of his alma mater, George Washington University Law School.

In his Project 2025 application, Kitchin wrote that Bukele has shown the world that morality is objective, that societies which understand this prosper, and that decline is a choice. He has been outspoken in his belief that Gods will ought to be done, and that political leaders ought to actively seek out Gods will.

He added: Bukele has defied a global majority which claimed these things could not be done. The same voices make similar claims about the United States. It is my fervent belief that we can prove them wrong as well.

He looked forward to a time when the US president likewise had more centralized power, writing Over the last fifty years, our nation has seen an attack on the Article II powers of the Presidency. Over the course of this attack, the President has been stripped of his authority to see that the laws are faithfully executed. 

On the law, Kitchin wrote: Any institution which reflects Gods moral order will govern a more virtuous people, achieving societal prosperity.

Another Bukele admirer, Justin Henle, now works as a staffer for the House administration committee under Wisconsin according to Legistorm. Previously, he worked as a intern for Virginia Republican, Bob Good.

In his application, he described Bukele as a public figure I admire whose tough on crime measures brought El-Salvador into a period of prosperity and safety.

Fringe figures

Several applicants nominated Jared Taylor as an influence on their thought. Taylor is a prominent white nationalist, and the founder of the American Renaissance website, journal, and annual conference. For decades, Taylor has denied that he is a white supremacist.

Others found inspiration from other, lesser-known far-right figures.

One is a senior figure in for the New Hampshire Department of Corrections, according to a LinkedIn page and the departments staff directory.

In their application, they express admiration for Neema Parvini, a current British writer who, according to UK anti-fascist non-profit Hope Not Hate, lost an academic position over his far-right activism, has attended far-right conferences, and claimed on social media that black and white people are different species.

They wrote that Parvinis book the Populist Delusion is A thorough and concise overview of political philosophers from history which more directly addressed the myriad problems faced by our nation and some of the mechanisms by which Trump was prevented from governing successfully.

Elsewhere in the application, they said I gravitate towards antebellum writers more than modern ones, and said that the Fourteenth Amendment, passed in the wake of the civil war and granting citizenship to formerly enslaved people, should be repealed, since Nearly all of our modern problems are descended from this verbose and destructive inversion of sovereignty signed under duress.

The Old Glory Club

There were at least seven applicants who the Guardian identified as members of the far-right, men-only secret society, the Old Glory Club, although none of them appear to have been offered jobs in the administration so far.

Although none appear to have gone on to find employment in the Trump regime, they made little attempt to hide their nativist views.

Last July, the Guardian reported that the Old Glory Club had established at least 26 clubs nationwide, had ties with similar far-right groups in the UK and antisemitic activists, had held in-person meetups, and represented a new breed of extremist organisation which aims first to build an offline social network before taking over society.

Ryan Turnipseed is a founding member of the Old Glory Club who appears to have made an application to Heritage that includes his personal email address and phone number.

In describing his beliefs, Turnipseed wrote that he supported Freedom of association and the right to discriminate. They are both one and the same, just worded differently. He added: I believe that ones freedom to associate is vital for a healthy, productive, sane, and morally upright civilization, and that the enshrining of anti-discrimination laws into the American legal system has been disastrous.

In February 2023, Turnipseed was identified by antifascist researchers as a member of what they called a rising white supremacist faction within the Lutheran faith. Later that month, the president of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod called for the excommunication of those propagating radical and unchristian alt-right views.

The Guardian cross-referenced application materials with company records for the Old Glory Club umbrella organization and local chapters to identify six other members who had applied to Project 2025.

The best public interest journalism relies on first-hand accounts from people in the know.

If you have something to share on this subject, you can contact us confidentially using the following methods.

Secure Messaging in the Guardian app

The Guardian app has a tool to send tips about stories. Messages are end to end encrypted and concealed within the routine activity that every Guardian mobile app performs. This prevents an observer from knowing that you are communicating with us at all, let alone what is being said.

If you don't already have the Guardian app, download it (iOS/Android) and go to the menu. Select Secure Messaging.

SecureDrop, instant messengers, email, telephone and post

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.
Dunbar Street (Google Maps )

A man has been jailed for 24 years following a Metropolitan Police investigation into a shooting in south London.

Ayman Benhalima, 22, of Norwood, was sentenced at Woolwich Crown Court on Friday, 28 November, after pleading guilty to attempted murder.

In July, at the same court, Benhalima also pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply cannabis and possession of criminal property.

Police were called to Dunbar Street in Norwood on 16 December 2024 after reports of gunshots. Officers from the Mets Trident team  which specialises in tackling and investigating shootings across the capital  launched an investigation.

Detectives soon uncovered that the case extended beyond the initial firearms incident, revealing a drug-dealing network involving teenagers who had been groomed into transporting drugs into London.

The investigation directed their attention to a second man  Giovanni Bennett, 23, of Croydon. He pleaded guilty to being concerned in the importation of cannabis and to possession of criminal property on July 24.

Met Detective Inspector Ray Sekalongo, who led the investigation, said: Firearm offences have a devastating impact on victims, families, and our communities.

Our priority is not only to bring offenders to justice but also to safeguard young and vulnerable people who are at risk of being exploited through gang crime and drugs.

Alongside our partners, officers are working around the clock to prevent further harm and provide support for those who need it.

Police were called to reports of gunshots on Dunbar Street just before 10pm on December 16.

Benhalima had fired a gun at the driver of an Audi  believed by police to be a member of a rival gang  though no injuries were reported. He then fled the scene with Bennett.

Officers attended and carried out a forensic examination of the area as they began piecing together vital evidence to build their case.

Detectives used a music video, which had been filmed on the night, to prove the pairs guilt.

Both were seen to be in the same clothing as the assailants who had been pictured at the scene.

Cell data and CCTV analysis also backed up this hypothesis following an examination of all evidence.

After their investigation placed both Benhalima and Bennett at the scene of the shooting, officers searched their addresses.

Numerous packages of drugs and cash were found when officers searched their homes, as well as images of their drug dealing on their devices.

This led detectives to discover that the duo were involved in encouraging young girls and women to import drugs into London from Thailand for a large cash fee.

Bennett would advertise the drug-dealing opportunity on social media platform Snapchat.
A Metropolitan Police firearms officer lawfully killed a man who pointed a gun at officers in Dagenham, an inquest has concluded.

Giedrius Vasiljevas, 40, was shot dead by police in November 2023 after leaving his home armed. He had called police to say he possessed two loaded guns and intended to take his own life, an inquest heard.

Officers spent significant time speaking with Mr Vasiljevas over the phone, attempting to reassure him and resolve the situation peacefully before attending his address, police said, adding their aim was for the incident to end safely, without injury to anyone.

Despite these efforts, the situation escalated when Mr Vasiljevas left his home carrying a firearm.

Giedrius Vasiljevas (Facebook)

Commander Charmain Brenyah of Met Operations, said: We are aware of the conclusion of todays inquest and our thoughts are with Mr Vasiljevas family and friends at this difficult time.

"Our armed officers bravely respond to more than 4,000 incidents each year, but there are only one or two incidents where shots are fired. These officers are the most professional, accountable and cautious in their use of lethal force in the world and their operations have prevented countless acts of violence across our city.

The inquest heard officers responded on Thursday, November 23, 2023, just before 8pm to a 999 call from Mr Vasiljevas. He referenced the guns and said he wanted to take his own life.

Officers kept him engaged on the phone trying to persuade him to leave the property unarmed to seek medical attention.

Armed officers attended the address in Weston Green, Dagenham at 8.20pm to continue to engage with Mr Vasiljevas.

Shortly before 9pm, Mr Vasiljevas left the address with a firearm pointing at officers and was shot.

Officers began first aid until paramedics and Londons Air Ambulance arrived.

Mr Vasiljevas died a short time later.

A handgun was recovered from next to Mr Vasiljevas and another firearm from inside the property.

As is routine, Mr Vasiljevass death was investigated by the Independent Office for Police Conduct.

The IOPC report in December 2024 found no criminal offences, misconduct or learning identified for any officer and the use of force was necessary, reasonable and proportionate in the circumstances of the incident.

Mr Vasiljevass actions were found to have caused the officer who fired the fatal shot to believe there was an imminent threat to life.
Facing ALS head on, the actor aims to raise funds for Target ALS to accelerate progress towards effective treatments for everyone living with the disease

NEW YORK, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Actor and ALS advocate Eric Dane and Target ALS, a nonprofit breaking down barriers to ALS research, have come together to launch "Ending ALS Starts with You," a campaign to raise $500,000 for ALS research before December 31. Every donation powers Target ALS's innovative model, built to accelerate the development of effective treatments for the devastating disease.

Actor Eric Dane joins Target ALS for "Ending ALS Starts With You" campaign to raise $500,000 by December 31 for ALS research. Dane, who was diagnosed with ALS in November 2024, posed for exclusive new photos to launch the campaign with the leading ALS research nonprofit.

Diagnosed with ALS in November 2024, Dane has become a powerful voice for ALS research. His advocacy even carried onto the screen in a recent episode of NBC's Brilliant Minds where he portrayed a character with ALS. ALS or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis is a fatal disease affecting motor neurons that causes the loss of muscle control, including the ability to talk, walk, and eventually breathe. The life expectancy after diagnosis averages only two to five years, and current treatments have limited efficacy or application. "I wake up every day and I'm immediately reminded that this is happening. It's not a dream. Still, I don't think this is the end of my story. I don't feel like this is the end of me," says Dane.

By partnering with Target ALS, Dane is amplifying the organization's mission to break down barriers to ALS research to find effective treatments. "I chose to support Target ALS because I know that this organization is making the most headway towards developing effective treatments and I want to play my part to make that possible," says Dane. After receiving his diagnosis, he connected with Target ALS Founder and Former Deputy Mayor of New York City, Dan Doctoroff, who also lives with ALS, to learn more about the research landscape and Target ALS's efforts. "I founded Target ALS in 2013 with a clear vision: to build a world where everyone with ALS lives," says Doctoroff. "I'm grateful that Eric believes in that vision and has joined us to make it a reality." Doctoroff founded Target ALS after losing his father and uncle to the disease and was later diagnosed himself in 2021.

Under Doctoroff's visionary leadership, Target ALS has become the largest and most impactful private funder of ALS research. The organization has transformed the ALS research landscape through its holistic approach: funding the best ideas from scientists around the world, enabling access to scientific tools and resources, and conducting studies that fill critical gaps in our understanding of the disease. To date, Target ALS has invested more than $80M in ALS research, quadrupling its research budget over the last four years. With more than 750 grants funded and 1700 projects supported worldwide, the organization's novel approach has led to the launch of 11 clinical trials and six biotech companies.

While progress in the field has inspired hope, ending ALS relies on the generosity of donors. Ending ALS starts with you. Join Eric Dane and Target ALS this giving season by making a donation to deliver hope, and one day soon, effective treatments to people living with ALS and their families. Make a gift today .

About Target ALS

Target ALS is a medical research foundation breaking down barriers to Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) research to find effective treatments. Since 2013, Target ALS has revolutionized ALS research through its Innovation Ecosystem. By democratizing research through an unbiased review process, providing access to cutting-edge research tools, facilitating cross-disciplinary collaboration, and galvanizing industry involvement, Target ALS accelerates the most promising ideas in scientific research into drug development programs. In addition to funding and enabling research, Target ALS also conducts its own critical studies through the ALS Global Research Initiative (AGRI), a groundbreaking, worldwide collaboration aimed at reshaping the landscape of ALS research. Driven by impatient optimism, deliberate disruption, and radical collaboration, Target ALS aims to transform ALS from a fatal disease into a manageable disease, building a world where Everyone Lives.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Stephanie Ishoo

Director, Marketing and Communications, Target ALS

[email protected]

SOURCE Target ALS
American woman who mysteriously disappeared from cruise excursion on Caribbean island is finally found

An American woman whose mysterious disappearance from a cruise excursion in the Caribbean sent authorities on a frantic search was finally found Friday following an eight-day search, authorities said.

Ann Evans, 55, was reported missing after she didnt return to the Holland America Line cruise ship docked in Philipsburg, Sint Maarten, on November 20, according to a missing person alert.

Following coordination between [police] and other partners, contact has been made with the individual in question, the Police Force of Sint Maarten wrote in an update Friday.

In accordance with the laws governing privacy and the protection of personal data, no additional information will be released about the individual or their circumstances, authorities added.

Evans disembarked the ship last week and took a bus to Marigot, French Saint Martin, but did not return to the bus or to the cruise ship after the excursion, the Police Force of Sint Maarten said Thursday.

Ann Evans has been found, authorities said  but it was unclear why she had disappeared (The Government of Sint Maarten)

Through their search, the police force found that Evans had used her passport to check into a hotel on the French side of the island.

Based on information gathered during the investigation, KPSM has reason to believe that a female matching Ms. Evans description checked into a hotel on the French side of the island using her passport.

She has also reportedly been seen in the surrounding area of that establishment, the police force added.

The cruise ship departed from Fort Lauderdale, Florida on November 16 and visited several Caribbean destinations, including St. Lucia and Barbados. It was expected to return to Florida on November 28.

Police have encouraged Evans to contact her family if she sees the missing person reports in order to quickly confirm her safety.

A guest on Holland America Lines Rotterdam did not return to the ship on November 20 following a visit to Philipsburg, Sint Maarten. We notified local authorities immediately and we are working closely with them to confirm the guests whereabouts, the cruise line said in an earlier statement to The Independent.

As of Thursday, police reported on their social media page that a woman matching the guests description and using her passport checked into a hotel on the French side of the island and we are waiting further confirmation from authorities.
Sarah Beckstrom, 20, entered service with the West Virginia national guard in June 2023. Photograph: Nathan Howard/Reuters

One of two US national guard soldiers shot in a targeted attack near the White House this week has died, while the second is fighting for his life, Donald Trump has announced.

As part of his Thanksgiving call to US troops late on Thursday, the US president said he had been informed that Sarah Beckstrom, 20, had succumbed to her wounds.

Sarah Beckstrom of West Virginia, one of the guardsmen that were talking about, highly respected, young, magnificent person  Shes just passed away. Shes no longer with us, Trump said in his first live remarks since the shooting on Wednesday.

Trump added that the second guard member, Staff Sgt Andrew Wolfe, 24, was fighting for his life.

The alleged assailant, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, will now face upgraded charges as a result of Beckstroms death, said Jeanne Pirro, US attorney for the District of Columbia.

Lakanwal, 29, would now be charged with murder in the first-degree, she said.

In an interview with Fox News, Pirro anticipated that as the investigation progressed, authorities would find out what actually happened in terms of this individual even being in this country and being in a position to ambush and shoot down an innocent young woman who was doing her duty.

A day earlier, the US attorney general, Pam Bondi, said she would urge prosecutors to seek the death penalty against Lakanwal, an Afghan national who had worked for CIA-backed anti-terrorism units and was admitted to the US in 2021 under a post-Afghan war resettlement program.



I will tell you right now, I will tell you early, we will do everything in our power to seek the death penalty against that monster who should not have been in our country, Bondi said.

Beckstroms father had told the New York Times in a phone call earlier in the day that his daughter was unlikely to recover. Im holding her hand right now, Gary Beckstrom said. She has a mortal wound. Its not going to be a recovery.

Beckstrom and Wolfe belonged to the West Virginia national guard, which deployed hundreds of troops to Washington as part of Trumps controversial crime-fighting mission in the capital.

Beckstrom, from Webster Springs, West Virginia, entered service in June 2023. West Virginias governor, Patrick Morrisey, said in a social media post that Beckstrom had served with courage, extraordinary resolve and an unwavering sense of duty to her state and to her nation.

Investigators are looking into motives on the part of the suspect, who was shot at the scene by a third guard member and is being treated in hospital. His wounds are not believed to be life-threatening.

Lakanwal, who Trump has called a savage monster, was part of a CIA-backed unit in Afghanistan before he came to the US in 2021 under a resettlement programme launched after the chaotic US withdrawal.

Officials have confirmed Lakanwal arrived under a programme that gave some Afghans who had worked for the US government entry visas. He was granted asylum in April this year, under the Trump administration, Reuters reported.

A resident of eastern Afghanistan who identified himself as Lakanwals cousin told the Associated Press that he was originally from the province of Khost. The cousin, who spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals, said Lakanwal had worked in a special Afghan army unit.

A former official from the unit, who also spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the situation, said Lakanwal was a team leader and his brother was a platoon leader.

The cousin said Lakanwal started out working as a security guard for the unit in 2012, and was later promoted to become a team leader and a GPS specialist.

The suspects former landlord, Kristina Widman, said he had been living in Washington state with his wife and five children.

Jeanine Pirro, the US attorney for Washington DC, said at a news conference on Thursday that Lakanwal drove across the country to launch an ambush-style attack with a .357 Smith & Wesson revolver. The suspect shot one guard member twice before turning to fire at the second, she said.

The FBI director, Kash Patel, told the news conference the agency was investigating the shooting as an act of terrorism. Law enforcement agencies had executed search warrants at the suspects home in Washington and in San Diego, California.

The US has perennially high numbers of mass shootings, which have prompted many to call for more substantial gun control. A study released earlier this year found that one in 15 Americans has witnessed a mass shooting.

Investigators believe Lakanwal acted alone. He is one of roughly 76,000 Afghans brought to the US through the resettlement programme, many of whom worked alongside US troops and diplomats as interpreters and translators.

Related: Trump officials announce sweeping immigration reviews after national guard shooting

Supporters have said candidates were extensively vetted. But the initiative has drawn intense criticism from Republicans over what they have argued are gaps in the vetting process and the speed of admissions.

Shortly after the national guard shooting, Trump was quick to cast the blame on the Biden administration, accusing it of failing to properly vet migrants from Afghanistan. And he later said he would permanently pause migration from all third world countries, without specifying how.

After the shooting, Trump said he would send 500 more national guard troops to Washington DC. It is not clear where the additional troops would come from.



A federal judge last week ordered an end to the guard deployment but also put her order on hold for 21 days to allow the Trump administration time to either remove the troops or appeal.

The Associated Press contributed to this report
The man accused of gunning down two National Guard troops in Washington, D.C., will face a charge of first-degree murder following the death of West Virginia service member Sarah Beckstrom.

The upgraded charge against Rahmanullah Lakanwal was first announced by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro on Fox & Friends Friday morning.

There are certainly many more charges to come, she said.

Lakanwal was wounded when National Guardsmen returned fire and is being treated in a D.C.-area hospital.

Pirro had announced a day earlier that the Department of Justice would charge Lakanwal with assault with intent to kill while armed and three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence.

Rahmanullah Lakanwal is accused of killing National Guard service member Sarah Beckstrom (U.S. Attorney's Office)

We are hoping that the more information we can get and the more investigations going on  the more we will find out about what actually happened, Pirro said Friday.

Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, was taken into custody shortly after two National Guard members were shot roughly two blocks from the White House on Wednesday afternoon.

President Donald Trump announced the death of 20-year-old Beckstrom Thursday night. A second guardsman, 24-year-old Andrew Wolfe, remains in critical condition.

Lakanwal will face a charge of first-degree murder as well as assault and firearms charges, according to U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro, who said additional charges are forthcoming (REUTERS)

Federal law enforcement officials have accused Lakanwal of shooting the service members in an ambush that is being investigated as an act of terrorism.

It was a crime against our entire nation, Trump said in remarks Wednesday night. It was a crime against humanity.

National Guard service member Sarah Beckstrom, right, has died following a shooting in DC that also critically injured Guardsman Andrew Wolfe, left (U.S. Attorney's Office)

Lakanwal is believed to have arrived in the United States in 2021 during Joe Bidens administration and the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. He applied for asylum in 2024 and was granted asylum in April 2025 under the Trump administration.

He had previously worked with the U.S. government, including the CIA, as a member of a partner force in Kandahar, according to CIA Director John Ratcliffe.

Trump has used the shooting to escalate his attacks on immigration and the Biden administrations withdrawal from Afghanistan, casting the violence in D.C. as evidence of the single greatest national security threat facing our nation.

The administration will reexamine every single alien from Afghanistan who has entered our country under Biden and we must take all necessary measures to ensure the removal of any alien from any country who does not belong here or add benefit to our country, the president said.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services also announced an immediate and indefinite halt to the processing of all immigration requests relating to Afghan nationals pending a review of security and vetting protocols.

Lakanwa was believed to have been living in Bellingham, Washington with his wife and five children and working as a delivery driver, according to officials.

Shots were fired in Washington around 2:15 p.m. Wednesday near the Farragut West Metro Station, a short distance from Lafayette Square near the White House.

The two wounded soldiers were part of a high-visibility patrol when they encountered the suspect, who rounded a corner, raised his arm and fired at them with a .357 revolver, according to Jeffery Carroll, executive assistant chief of D.C.s Metropolitan Police Department.

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has described the shooting as a targeted attack. Law enforcement officials have not publicly identified a motive for the attack.
TMG video grab

Dressed in a black puffer coat with a revolver in hand, a picture has emerged showing the moment an Afghan national ambushed US National Guards on the streets of Washington DC.

A witness took the photograph just as Rahmanullah Lakanwal is alleged to have opened fire on the troops who were on patrol close to the White House on Wednesday.

One of the victims, 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom has since died, Donald Trump announced on Thursday night. She was targeted alongside Andrew Wolfe, 24, who is now fighting for his life, the US President said. The pair had only been sworn in the day before.

Mr Lakanwal has since been charged with first-degree murder, three counts of possession of a firearm and two counts of assault with intent to kill.

Sarah Beckstrom, who was shot in Washington DC has died from her wounds

The photo shows the 29-year-old suspect, a former special forces commander from Afghanistan who worked with the CIA, chasing the troops around the corner of a metro station.

It is the first known image of the suspect holding a gun. In it, one male guard can be seen running down the street, appearing to try to reload his own weapon.

In a further video, obtained by the Wall Street Journal, five shots can be heard as a gunfight ensues. Two Guards, in their camouflage fatigues, are then seen slumped on the ground.

Lakanwal came to the US in 2021 under a Biden-era refugee programme for vulnerable Afghans fleeing the Taliban takeover.

Authorities said the troops he shot had been sworn in to guard the streets of the US capital less than 24 hours before the attack, which took place on the eve of Thanksgiving. Ms Beckstrom is said to have volunteered to work on the holiday.

Credit: Reuters

Announcing her death during a Thanksgiving call with service members on Thursday evening, Mr Trump called Ms Beckstrom, from West Virginia, a highly respected, young, magnificent person.

He added: Shes no longer with us. Shes looking down at us right now. Her parents are with her. Its just happened. She was savagely attacked.

Mr Wolfe, who underwent surgery on Wednesday, is in very bad shape and fighting for his life, the president added.

Andrew Wolfe remains in a critical condition following the attack - Andrew Wolfe / Facebook

Authorities said the pair had been sworn in to guard the streets of the US capital less than 24 hours before the attack, which took place the day before Thanksgiving. Ms Beckstrom is said to have volunteered to work on the holiday.

Gary Beckstrom, the young soldiers father, told The New York Times earlier on Thursday that his daughter had received a mortal wound and was not expected to survive.

Im holding her hand right now, he added.

Sarah Beckstrom was killed in the shooting near the White House

The National Guard has been deployed in Washington DC since August, when Mr Trump declared he was mobilising troops to clamp down on crime.

The US president ordered 500 more troops onto the streets shortly after the shooting. A judge has ruled the deployment illegal, but the Trump administration appealed the decision on Wednesday, following the attack.

Pam Bondi, the US attorney general, said shortly after Ms Beckstroms death that America would never forget her courage and suggested Mr Lakanwal would face the death penalty. His subsequent charge of first-degree murder does carry the death penalty.

The suspect has been named as Rahmanullah Lakanwal

Mr Lakanwal drove across the country from his home in Bellingham, Washington state, where he lived with his wife and five children, and allegedly ambushed the two National Guard members on 17th and I Streets near the Farragut West station, Ms Pirro said.

She continued: One Guardsman is struck, goes down, and then the shooter leans over and strikes the Guardsman again. Another Guardsman is struck several times.

Mr Lakanwal, who was subdued by other National Guard members after the shooting, was taken to hospital and is under heavy guard.

b'

'

Fox News reported on Wednesday that he was in the country illegally after his visa expired in September, but this was not confirmed by authorities.

The FBI on Thursday searched multiple properties, including a home in Washington state, linked to the suspect, seizing a number of electronic devices, including phones, laptops and iPads, and interviewing his relatives.

Kash Patel, the FBI director, who briefed the media in the hours after the shooting, paid tribute to Ms Beckstrom as a young soldier with her entire life ahead of her and asked for prayers for her family and friends.

Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, said: May God bless Sarahs family during this unimaginably difficult time.
Prostate cancer screening should not be made available to the vast majority of men in the UK, a committee advising the government has said.

In a draft recommendation, the UK National Screening Committee (UKNSC) said it does not recommend population-wide screening using the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, because doing so would be likely to cause more harm than good.

Experts are waiting to see data from a large trial launched by Prostate Cancer UK last week, which aims to establish whether combining the PSA test with other tests, such as rapid MRI scans, could be a more effective protocol than that which is currently in place. The research could potentially lead to a recommendation for population-wide screening.

For now, the committee will only put forward a recommendation to screen men with BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic mutations  which put them at far higher risk of prostate cancer  every two years, between the ages of 45 and 61.

Health secretary Wes Streeting said he would consider the findings, adding that, while he wanted to see earlier diagnosis and quicker treatment, this would need to be balanced against the harms that wider screening could cause to men.

Professor Sir Mike Richards, a former national cancer director and chair of the UKNSC, told a briefing that modelling shows that whole-population screening may lead to a small reduction in prostate cancer deaths, but the very high levels of overdiagnosis mean that the potential for harm outweighs the benefits.

Many high-profile figures, including Sir Tony Robinson and journalist Dermot Murnaghan, have expressed their disappointment at the decision.

The UK National Screening Committee has said it does not recommend population-wide screening using the PSA test (PA)

Many experts argue that the PSA test is not very reliable, because men with a high PSA level may not have cancer, and some men with cancer have a normal PSA result.

A positive test result may lead to unnecessary treatment for slow-growing or harmless tumours, leaving men at risk of side effects such as incontinence and erectile dysfunction.

The UKNSC said on Friday that it would also not recommend extensive prostate cancer screening for Black men  who are at double the risk of the disease  because there is currently not enough data or evidence relating to this group. Neither does the committee recommend targeted screening for men with a family history of the disease, who are also at higher risk of developing prostate cancer.

The UKNSC said it would work closely with the Transform trial, launched last week by Prostate Cancer UK, to gather more data in these areas.

The trial is looking at the most promising screening techniques available, including PSA blood tests, genetic tests, and 10-minute MRI scans, and whether they can be combined to provide population-wide prostate screening.

It is hoped that the results will be ready within two years.

The UKNSC has modelled outcomes of prostate cancer screening (PA Wire)

Laura Kerby, chief executive of Prostate Cancer UK, said: The committees decision will come as a blow to the tens of thousands of men, loved ones and families whove fought for a screening programme. Today were deeply disappointed, but as determined as ever, and it wont slow us down.

People are sick and tired of seeing the men they love harmed by this disease, and we wont rest until no mans diagnosis is left to chance.

We know that a mass screening programme could save thousands of mens lives. While screening men with BRCA gene variations will save only a fraction of that, the committees decision is the first time theyve recommended screening of any kind for prostate cancer.

It shows that research and evidence can shift the dial and save mens lives. And the research programme that could achieve screening for all men is already underway  our 42m Transform trial, which will bring new evidence back to the screening committee in just two years.

Dr Ian Walker, executive director of policy at Cancer Research UK, said: Its good news that prostate cancer screening is being considered for men with faulty BRCA genes, which increase a mans risk of developing an aggressive type of the disease. The UK National Screening Committees analysis shows that screening this group will save lives.

We support the committees conclusion that for other groups of men, there isnt currently enough high-quality evidence that screening would do more good than harm  it can miss dangerous cancers, and detect ones that dont need treatment.

Health secretary Wes Streeting says that while he wants to see earlier diagnosis and quicker treatment, that needs to be balanced against the potential harms (Getty)

Mr Streeting said: I have always said I want to see screening in place for the most common cancer in men, provided this is backed by evidence. I want to change the NHS so it diagnoses earlier and treats faster. That aim will be balanced against the harms that wider screening could cause to men.

I will examine the evidence and arguments in this draft recommendation thoroughly, bringing together those with differing views, ahead of the final recommendation in March.

He said the government is providing funding to the Transform trial, which has the potential to revolutionise prostate cancer screening, cutting out harmful side effects and making screening far more accurate.

Around three in every 1,000 men have BRCA 1 and 2 mutations. The UKNSC said it is working with the NHS on ways to find those men who may be carriers.

At present, men may become aware that they have the faulty gene when a woman in their family with breast cancer tests positive for BRCA.

Prof Richards said: There are existing guidelines on who should get that [BRCA] testing, and I think we will make those probably more prominent during the consultation process. He said that men with a strong family history of prostate cancer can still get a PSA test via their GP, but that more data is needed to justify widespread testing of men with this history, and for widespread screening to be introduced for Black men.

More than 63,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer annually in the UK, with over 12,000 dying from the disease each year (Getty/iStock)

The charity Prostate Cancer Research described the recommendation as a missed opportunity, and said that the historical harms associated with screening (such as unnecessary biopsies) have been dramatically reduced by modern MRI-first techniques.

Its chief executive, Oliver Kemp, said: Todays decision to recommend screening to BRCA variant carriers does not go far enough. It is a missed opportunity for other high-risk groups, including Black men and men with family history.

We are failing these groups, and entrenching inequalities further, by not providing them with the best chance of having their disease caught early  when they are more likely to survive. There is still time for the government to reconsider this decision for all high-risk men, as further delays will continue to condemn the lives of thousands more.

Figures published by the UKNSC suggest that around 80 per cent of men whose prostate cancers are identified through PSA screening would not benefit in terms of preventing prostate cancer deaths and [advanced disease].

Ros Eeles, a professor of oncogenetics at the Institute of Cancer Research, in London, said screening men with BRCA mutations would save lives. But she said that her institute recommends yearly screening, rather than every two years.

She added: Men with the BRCA1 gene fault are more than three times as likely, compared with non-carriers, to have aggressive prostate cancers that are likely to grow and spread quickly.

The risk of prostate cancer in BRCA2 carriers is more than doubled, as is the risk of aggressive prostate cancer, and they will develop prostate cancer at a younger age, on average.

If you stop screening at 61 years of age, you miss nearly half of all cancers for BRCA carriers between 40 and 69 years.
Camilla is colonel-in-chief of the Rifles and Royal colonel 4th Battalion The Ranger Regiment

Britain must stand up to tyranny to end the war in Ukraine, the Queen has said.

Queen Camilla told an awards dinner in the City of London that she hoped the countrys resolve would help to find a resolution to another devastating and brutal war.

Vladimir Putin, the Russian president, has demanded that Ukraine surrender territory in exchange for peace as the United States seeks an agreement to end the conflict.

In the speech on Thursday, the Queen paid tribute to the precursors to The Rifles, of which she is colonel-in-chief, who fought in the Crimean War in the 1850s.

She said: Only recently we marked the 80th anniversaries of both victory in Europe and victory over Japan. During these moments of commemoration, I was fortunate to speak privately with so many of our surviving veterans who voiced a clear and unanimous plea; the path to peace must be pursued with the same vigour and determination that our Forces prepare for combat.

It is only fitting, then, to rewind the clock 170 years, when The Rifles antecedents stood alongside our European allies in modern-day Ukraine.

Let us hope, as our antecedents did then, that our resolve to stand up to tyranny in this same region can again find a resolution to another devastating and brutal war.

The Queen told guests at the Biennial Rifles Awards Dinner, that the path to peace must be pursued with the same vigour and determination that our Forces prepare for combat - Kin Cheung

The awards dinner was celebrating the achievements of The Rifles, one of the Armys key infantry regiments, at the Guildhall in the City.

Putin said on Thursday that Russia was ready to fight until the last Ukrainian dies as he demanded Volodymyr Zelensky agree to give up the entire Donbas region.

The latest US peace proposal, negotiated with Ukraine and its European allies, will be negotiated directly between Donald Trump and Mr Zelensky.

The Russian president has said the 19-point plan could form the basis for future agreements but has insisted Ukraine agree to give up territory, claiming his army is practically impossible to hold back.

The Queen also thanked her equerry, Major Ollie Plunket, who was in attendance.

Major Ollie Plunket and Queen Camilla in 2024 - he has been her equerry for three years - Max Mumby/Indigo

The Rifleman has served as Camillas first equerry for three years and will soon be succeeded by Major Rob Treasure of the same regiment.

She said: I would like to say a huge thank you to Major Ollie Plunket, who has been my staunch equerry for the past three years. He has excelled in everything he has done for me.

Camilla attended the biennial awards dinner alongside the units Royal Colonels, the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester and the Duchess of Edinburgh.

The Duchess of Edinburgh accompanied the Queen to the event - Kin Cheung

The Queen succeeded Prince Philip, the late Duke of Edinburgh, as Colonel-in-Chief of The Rifles regiment in July 2020 and is also linked to The Rifles through her late father, Major Bruce Shand, who died in 2006 aged 89.

Two Battalions of The Rifles form part of the celebrated 7th Infantry Brigade, otherwise known as the Desert Rats, with whom Major Shand served.
John Taylor, 69, was denied a PSA blood test despite repeated urinary symptoms - Paul Cooper

John Taylor, 69, from the Lake District, went to his GP twice complaining about needing to pass urine more than normal, but he was denied a PSA blood test. It was only at an annual check-up that he had a test, which detected that he had stage two prostate cancer

I didnt know anything about prostate cancer when I first went to the doctors. Id started noticing that I needed to go to the loo more often than normal. I was getting up to pee three times a night. And because my job as a chartered surveyor meant that I was driving around the country a lot, I felt like I knew every public toilet in Britain, as I had to keep going to the bathroom  it was ridiculous. Im also a keen fisherman and noticed that I had to keep coming out of the river to go to the toilet.

There was none of the awareness about prostate cancer that there is now as a result of men such as Sir Chris Hoy speaking out at the time.

My GPs response

When I told my GP about my symptoms, he told me: Look, youre 57, dont worry about it.

So, as far as I was concerned, Id done my bit by going to the doctor and was told not to worry  crack on. I hate going to the doctor and making a fuss about things, and because he was unconcerned, so was I.

I went back to the doctor a few months later with an ear infection and told my GP for a second time that Im peeing quite a lot and its becoming more frequent. By this point, Id looked up my symptoms and knew about prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, which are used to detect prostate cancer. I asked if I should have one, but my GP said no, not to worry and to come back if it gets worse.

Getting the PSA test

So I carried on. It was by complete chance that I finally had a PSA test in June. I have an annual MOT through the NHS, at Broadgreen Hospital, because I had a heart problem years ago. During the check-up, I told my consultant about my symptoms. He said hed do a PSA test while he was doing some other blood tests. He was the first to mention PSA properly.

When he phoned me at home the next day and told me there was a problem, my heart dropped. I had a PSA score of 27, which is quite high. Its supposed to be lower than three.

Later that week, I went on a fishing trip on the river Tweed, in the Scottish Borders, and the man who used to run that trip had died the previous December from prostate cancer. It was at this point that it really hit. The fear that I might die much sooner than I had imagined pushed its way into my head. It was a frightening thought. I was staring at the river, thinking it was going to be me next.

The diagnosis

Thankfully, everything happened quickly. Within a week of my PSA result, I had an appointment with a urologist, who referred me for extra tests, all of which happened within the next fortnight.

A tumour was confirmed and I was diagnosed with stage two prostate cancer and my Gleason score (which is now known as the grade group score) was 4 + 3 (equivalent to grade group three). This meant the cancer was likely to grow at a moderate rate.

The news was hard to share, but Taylors family rallied around him with support

I cried after getting off the phone with the urologist. When my then-wife came home, she immediately saw Id been upset. I told her right away. She was clearly devastated but reassured me wed get through it together. She believed I was strong and would face whatever came next.

I waited to tell my children, Sarah, 35, and Jonathon, 31, until I fully understood the treatment plan and my chances of recovery. We shared the news over a family dinner at home. It was a tough conversation  Id always thought I was invincible until then. They were deeply upset but incredibly supportive, and they appreciated my positive outlook.

When I first heard I had the big C, my mind went to the worst. It was a very difficult moment. But the relief came when I learnt the tumour was confined to one side of my prostate and hadnt spread.

Receiving treatment

I was referred to Clatterbridge Hospital in Liverpool, where I underwent an 18-month course of hormone therapy and a daily radiation treatment for seven weeks. Honestly, it was pretty exhausting.

Thankfully, I had good friends around me. When I told them I had quite advanced prostate cancer and was starting treatment, it was worrying, but I hoped to get it sorted.

Taylors 18-month hormone therapy and daily radiation were exhausting, but steadfast friends helped him through - Paul Cooper

One close friend from London even came up for a week at the end of my radiation, driving me to my 6am appointments in Liverpool because I was so tired and struggling to get there alone. Unfortunately, some friends withdrew  perhaps they couldnt face serious illness or death and preferred to stay uninvolved.

After treatment, the cancer settled well, but I continued PSA tests every six months. Over time, my levels slowly crept up, and about eight years later, they reached a dangerous point. The cancer had really come back with a vengeance.

I began treatment again, this time just hormone therapy with a daily tablet called bicalutamide. Im still on it today, and my PSA is back down to effectively zero.

The side effects and aftermath

At times, the mental effects of treatment were quite debilitating, and I would feel really down. The hormone drug works by reducing testosterone levels, which helps stop the tumour from growing. I was left very tired, and my body changed.

Those side effects arent great, but Id rather deal with them than the alternative. Ive gained some weight and my breasts have swollen. I also struggle with fatigue, but Im getting to an age where afternoon naps are normal anyway.

I played quite a lot of rugby before my diagnosis, so going from being fit to suddenly becoming a bit of a blob  its not great for the old head sometimes. Doctors dont really warn you about the mental side effects.

Now, I lead a normal life. Nothing really debilitates me. The treatment is excellent once youre on it, says Taylor

My urologist suggested I get involved with Prostate Cancer UK, and now I do awareness talks through the charity with men struggling to come to terms with their diagnosis. The message from all of them is the same  I wish Id had a PSA test earlier.

Many of the guys get depressed because some suffer side effects such as breast growth and changes to their sex lives. Theres the saying big boys dont cry, but they really need to  and should let their emotions show more. Its much better to share what youre going through with your partner or friends and face it together.

For me, the trickiest part was actually after treatment stopped. I expected to be back to my old self, but I never have been. Nearly two years of treatment takes its toll. But talk to your pals, talk to your partner. It definitely helps. Theres no quick fix, but there are good, positive influences out there.

Staying fit

I try to stay as active as I can. I walk and go fly fishing for salmon and trout. Its not just sitting on the bank  youre constantly moving, walking to fishing spots, wading through deep rivers, and when you hook a big fish, it takes real strength to get it in.

Fishing is also a great chance to chat with friends. On one trip, my mate Jim was going to the bathroom a lot, and I kept pushing him to get a PSA test. Eventually, he did  and it turned out he had full-blown prostate cancer too.

The first time Jim saw his doctor about his symptoms, no PSA test was mentioned. He had to really push for it on his second visit. Now hes had treatment and is clear. Jims bought me several pints since then.

Taylor stays active with fly fishing, which also gave him the chance to encourage a friend to seek help early

Simply put, if you have doubts, see your GP and insist on a PSA test. The consequences of missing it can be severe. Catching cancer early means treatment is successful, and the treatments themselves have improved  you can still lead a full, normal life.

If my doctor hadnt proactively checked mine, Id have been in serious trouble.

I dont blame my GP for turning me away at first. They arent currently directed to refer middle-aged men who have urinary symptoms for PSA testing. But the system needs to change. Some of the celebrities now speaking out about prostate cancer, if screened earlier, might not be facing life-threatening situations.

Now I lead a normal life. Nothing really debilitates me. The treatment is excellent once youre on it  the hard part is getting started.

As told to Emily Craig

This article was first published on July 28 2025
A Republican state legislator in Indiana said he would oppose President Donald Trumps overtures to redraw the states congressional district lines after the president used a slur often made against people with disabilities.

For the past few months, the president and his allies in Congress have sought to have states with Republican governors and state legislatures redraw their congressional lines in the hope of winning more seats in the 2026 midterm elections.

Texas and Missouri both redrew their maps. A lower court judge ruled against the effort in Texas, but the Supreme Court temporarily blocked that order.

But so far Republicans in Indiana have not taken up the initiative and do not have the votes. Over the Thanksgiving holiday, Trump went on a tirade where he called Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz seriously r*****ed.

That proved to be too much for state senator Mike Bohacek who announced his opposition to the redistricting effort based on Trumps words.

President Donald Trumps use of a slur against people with disabilities might have cost him a chance to redraw Indianas congressional districts (Getty)

Many of you have asked my position on redistricting, he said. I have been an unapologetic advocate for people with intellectual disabilities since the birth of my second daughter. Those of you that dont know me or my family might not know that my daughter has Down Syndrome. This is not the first time our president has used these insulting and derogatory references and his choices of words have consequences.

Trump has in the past mocked people with disabilities or used ableist language calling his political rivals low I.Q. Most famously, he mocked Serge Kovaleski, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist with a disability, in 2015.

Bohacek said that that Trump needed to be worthy of having a Republican majority.

I will be voting NO on redistricting, perhaps he can use the next 10 months to convince voters that his policies and behavior deserve a congressional majority.

The slur has had increasing purchase on many corners of the American right despite a push to remove the word from vocabulary throughout much of the 2000s.

Governor Tim Walz was the target of one of the presidents latest insults (Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Trump has aggressively pushed for redistricting ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Polling shows that the president is increasingly unpopular and the presidents party typically loses control of the White House during the midterm election. In July said Republicans were entitled to additional seats thanks to Trumps success in Texas.

This came despite the fact that historically, redistricting only happens every decade after the Census takes place.

But the effort also backfired massively. California, which had nonpartisan redistricting, voted overwhelmingly for Proposition 50  which could give the state an extra five Democratic seats  after Gov. Gavin Newsom pushed for it to be on the ballot, saying that Democrats needed to meet fire with fire.

Despite the success, the Department of Justice sued California after Proposition 50 passed.
Singer Robbie Williams has said he is super proud of his eldest daughter Theodora Rose Teddy Williams who stars in the upcoming Christmas film Tinsel Town.

The Rock DJ singer, known for his hit songs including Millennium, Angels and Let Me Entertain You appeared with his 13-year old daughter and wife Ayda Field Williams on the red carpet for the UK premiere of the festive film which follows a washed-up Hollywood action hero who is tricked into starring in a Christmas pantomime in England.

Starring Canadian actor Kiefer Sutherland and Australian actress Rebel Wilson, the film marks Teddys on-screen debut as she plays Cara, the daughter of Wilsons character, Jill.

Speaking about Teddys role in the film, Williams told the Press Association, Williams said: Im super proud.

Its a very weird situation to be in, to put your daughter out into the public, and its a very, very tiny little toe in just to go, this is what its like, now go back to school and well see what happens later on.

But I just want people to see what I see with her every day, which is how kind and how compassionate and empathic she is. Im super proud of just her and then this is (the) icing.

Teddy Williams arriving for the UK premiere of Tinsel Town in London (Ian West/PA)

Directed by Chris Foggin, known for comedies Fishermans Friends and Bank Of Dave, Tinsel Town also stars Danny Dyer, best known for playing pub landlord Mick Carter in EastEnders and London-based Canadian comedian Katherine Ryan.

Prior to launching his solo career, Williams was part of Take That who had hit songs including Pray, Everything Changes and Sure.

He left in 1995 and released his chart-topping debut album, Life Thru A Lens, in 1997 before going on to release a series of number one albums including Ive Been Expecting You (1998), Sing When Youre Winning (2000), Escapology (2002), Intensive Care (2005) and Rudebox (2006).
The Churchill Arms in Kensington has been dubbed the most festive pub in Britain. (SWNS)

The landlord of what has been described as Britains "most festive" pub has spoken of his desire to bring cheer to the streets of London over Christmas.

Nestled in the heart of Kensington, west London, just a few hundred metres from Kensington Palace, the Churchill Arms is a beacon of festive cheer and one of London's most Instagrammable spots, boasting no fewer than 50 Christmas trees and tens of thousands of lights.

"Sometimes you need more than just food and drink, you need that magic, and by god we have it," James Keogh, 61, told Yahoo News.

The 18th-century pub, named after Sir Winston Churchill, has put on elaborate displays for more than 30 years, and this year will be no different, with its impressive display lighting up at 4pm every day between now and 'Twelfth Night' on 6 January.

Costing more than 18,000 to set up, the display features over 300,000 energy-saving light bulbs and takes four weeks to assemble each year. Other decorations include Santas, Christmas presents, Christmas puddings, reindeer and snow machines.

Both the outside and inside of the pub are adorned with decorations for the festive season. (SWNS)

Keogh, who has worked at the pub since 1987 and managed it for 35 years, said the tradition started in 1990 when they put a 16ft tree above the main entrance of the pub, prompting rave reviews from customers who loved the festive atmosphere.

"So next year we added more trees. Maybe four or five on each side of the pub, and such was the response we became excited about this, and it just snowballed," he said.

"Back then there was no social media or anything and it was word-of-mouth so people passing on buses and people walking past would tell people about it and we noticed it was getting busier all the time. And we really got into it and year after year we began adding more and more trees."

During COVID, to thank the NHS, The Churchill adorned the pub with over 100 trees but has since reduced the amount of trees, first from 100 to 85, then down to 55, but increased the lights and festive ornaments and decorations - while trying to stay sustainable, hence using energy-saving bulbs.

James Keogh has managed the pub for 37 years. (SWNS)

Opened in 1750 and part of the Fuller's chain, the Churchill Arms changed its name to honour Britain's war hero after World War II.

Churchill's grandparents are said to have regularly visited the watering hole in the 1800s, and the walls of the pub are decked out with memorabilia of the two-time PM.

Its decadent flower displays during the warmer months have also secured its place among the few pubs to be a winner at the Chelsea Flower Show.

The pub has become a social media sensation, garnering nearly 30,000 followers on Instagram, with crowds of people turning out to see the lights switched on on 13 November.

Keogh and his staff decorate the inside of the pub themselves, but the outside has been decorated by the same contractor since 1990, City Plant Displays, which has to install the display between 4am and 10am because of the heavy footfall at the pub's location on Kensington Church Street.

The inside of the pub is adorned with flags, ornaments and Christmas memorabilia. (SWNS) (Tony Kershaw / SWNS)

The pub has garnered a huge social media following and shares its light display on Instagram. (Instagram/Churchill Arms)

The Churchill Arms pub is decorated with Christmas trees, in Notting Hill, London, Britain November 28, 2018.REUTERS/Henry Nicholls (REUTERS / Reuters)

Despite the effort, it's worth it - with the festive display helping to attract people to the pub at a notoriously difficult time for UK watering holes.

Earlier this year, the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) warned that the UK faced the prospect of a pub losing every single day in 2025, with 378 closures expected across England, Wales and Scotland, resulting in more than 5,600 job losses.

Keogh said the lights help triple the pub's business as well as attracting people to the area.

Watch Britain's 'most festive' pub switch its lights on with staggering 22,000 bulb display

"What we have done with the display is a great encouragement for business. Sometimes you need more than just some food and drink, you need that magic, and by god we have it," he said.

"Our business really goes up, we treble our trade at Christmas time and we are so well known now all over the world because of apps like Instagram and TikTok. Iit is often said we are the most Instagrammable pub in London."

He admitted they are lucky to be located in Kensington but said the pub also brings a lot of people to the area.

"The display both on the inside and outside makes the pub feel so warm and welcoming and atmospheric, and we are packed often," Keogh said.

The pub also boasts a spectacular floral display in the summer months. (Getty) (Dukas via Getty Images)

"Ive never seen so may people stand and study the pub. They stand and admire the pub and I think its wonderful the response we get, even during the day.

"As the lights go on at 4pm we will have people outside the pub studying it, taking photos, and you can see how appreciative people are and thats a great feeling. And the inside is just as beautiful as the outside so I would encourage everyone to take a look inside.

"It is truly an iconic pub. And we sit on a lot of peoples wishlists, and the weekends we are often packed out."

Click below to see the latest London headlines
LONDON, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Global Brands Magazine (GBM) is proud to announce that First Bank of Nigeria Limited, one of West Africa's leading financial institutions, has been recognised with two prestigious honours at the Global Brand Awards 2025  'Most Innovative Banking Brand, Nigeria 2025' and 'Best Digital Banking Innovation (DXC), Nigeria 2025'.

Adding to this achievement, the bank's Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Olusegun Alebiosu, was also named 'Most Innovative CEO, Nigeria 2025'.

These distinctions celebrate FirstBank's ongoing efforts to make banking smarter, faster, and more meaningful for its customers. Through continuous innovation and a strong focus on digital growth, the bank continues to set new standards in customer experience and leadership across the region.

Commenting on the recognition, Jay Reddy, CEO of Global Brands Magazine, said:

"First Bank of Nigeria has consistently demonstrated what true innovation in banking looks like. Their focus on digital transformation and customer-first solutions sets them apart, and we're delighted to recognise their efforts on a global stage."

Receiving the award, Mr. Alebiosu said: "We are honoured to be recognised by Global Brands Magazine for our relentless pursuit of innovation. These awards validate our strategy to deliver smarter, faster and more inclusive banking through digital excellence and customer-first solutions. It is a testament to the trust placed in us by our customers to continue to set the standards of banking in Africa. We are committed to accelerating digital transformation that empowers individuals, businesses, and communities to thrive."

ABOUT FIRST BANK OF NIGERIA

First Bank of Nigeria Limited 'FirstBank', established in 1894, is the premier bank in West Africa, a leading financial inclusion services provider in Africa, and a digital banking giant.

FirstBank's international footprints cut across three continents  Africa, Europe and Asia, with FirstBank UK Limited in London and Paris; FirstBank in The Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, The Gambia, Guinea and Sierra Leone; FBNBank in Senegal; and a FirstBank Representative Office in Beijing, China. All the subsidiary banks are fully registered by their respective Central Banks to provide full banking services.

Besides providing domestic banking services, the subsidiaries also engage in international cross-border transactions with FirstBank's non-Nigerian subsidiaries, and the representative offices in Paris and China facilitate trade flows from Asia and Europe into Nigeria and other African countries.

ABOUT GLOBAL BRANDS MAGAZINE (ENGLAND)

Based in the UK, Global Brands Magazine (GBM) is a leading publication delivering insights, news, and opinions on brands shaping their industries. With over 8.4 million annual visitors and 14 million page views, GBM is a premier source of brand-related content. The magazine boasts a strong social media presence, with 35,000+ Facebook followers, 20,000+ Instagram followers, 25,000+ Twitter followers, and 4,000+ LinkedIn followers.

ABOUT THE GLOBAL BRAND AWARDS

The Global Brand Awards celebrate excellence in brand performance, recognising companies and organisations that excel in quality, innovation, and customer-centric services across various sectors, including finance, education, hospitality, technology, and more.

The 2025 awards ceremony was hosted at the Grand Hyatt, Dubai, continuing a tradition of high-profile venues including The Address Downtown, Waldorf Astoria, and JW Marriott.

The 2026 ceremony will take place at Address Sky View Dubai on 12 June 2026.

For a complete list of winners, visit:

https://www.globalbrandsmagazine.com/brand-awards-winners/.

To nominate a company or leader for the Global Brand Awards 2025, visit: https://www.globalbrandsmagazine.com/nomination-form/.

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2648066/GBM_Awards_2025_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Global Brands Magazine
A new report suggests school staffing shortages are harming childrens education and safety.

The survey by Unison of almost 3,000 support staff  including teaching assistants, caterers and cleaners  found that three in five reported having fewer colleagues than a year ago, with just six per cent saying numbers have increased.

More than three-quarters surveyed said there were not enough workers to meet pupils needs, with a similar number warning that reduced staffing made it harder to keep pupils safe.

The main reason given for the shortage was the failure of schools to replace people when they leave.

Unison said the knock-on effect was an increase in workloads and unpaid overtime for those who remain.

More than three-quarters of those surveyed said there were not enough workers to meet pupils needs (PA)

Unisons head of education Mike Short said the survey paints a bleak picture of an underappreciated workforce going above and beyond.

Staff believe pupils education is suffering due to shortages. The situation is bad news for everybody and simply unsustainable. Overstretched employees are taking on extra responsibilities and doing teacher-level work for support-staff wages.

Schools need extra cash so they can replace people when they leave and afford fair pay rises for all their employees.

The forthcoming school support staff negotiating body should mean better recognition of the vital contribution made by the likes of teaching assistants, caterers and technicians.

Crucially, it must improve their pay and conditions, backed by the increased government funding that schools clearly need.

James Bowen, assistant general secretary at school leaders union NAHT, said: Support staff play a vital role in our schools  without them, schools simply wouldnt be able to function.

They really are the unsung heroes of the school workforce. Ever-increasing budget pressures mean that many schools are finding it harder and harder to afford the level of support staff they need, and where this is the case, children undoubtedly suffer  often the most vulnerable.

We frequently hear of leaders who are having to reduce the number of teaching assistants they have in order to balance the books. If the government wants a more inclusive school system then it must ensure schools have the necessary funding to deliver it.
Shona McGarty has spoken candidly about her recent breakup after a conversation about marriage in the Im A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here! camp proved too raw to sit through.

The EastEnders star, 34, ended her engagement to Irish guitarist David Bracken shortly before travelling to Australia.

The subject resurfaced during Thursday nights episode when campmates began swapping stories about proposals.

Rapper Aitch told the group: Ive been proposed to off a fan, at a meet and greet.

She got on one knee and I said go on then, put the ring on, gave her a hug and all that it was cute but unfortunately I never saw her again.

When asked if marriage was on his radar, he replied hed 100% like to tie the knot.

Shona McGarty spoke candidly about her recent split (ITV)

The actress was engaged to Irish guitarist, David Bracken (Instagram/DavidIrishBand)

Kelly Brook then revealed she had been engaged about five times before meeting husband Jeremy Parisi, adding that Parisi never really proposed.

I think he was petrified in the past, that because of all the engagements Id had that it was the beginning of the end, she shared.

In the end, Brook was the one who suggested marriage, while Martin Kemp chimed in with his own story, admitting he never proposed in a traditional sense.

During a trip to Dublin, he recalled his wife Shirlie grabbed my collar and dragged me in to a jeweller, declaring she had her eye on that one.

As the conversation continued, McGarty quietly excused herself from the main camp.

Later, while washing up with Tom Read Wilson, she admitted the topic was too close for comfort.

I just couldnt be part of that conversation, it just got too much, she said. When I came in, Id just broken up with my fiance, so I just walked away.

McGarty pictured with fellow campmate Aitch (ITV)

Read Wilson gently reassured her, saying she had done a really sensible thing, encouraging her to trust that the right person would come along in time.

McGarty and Bracken ended their engagement prior to her stint in the jungle.

A source previously told The Sun: They are on amicable terms, but have ended their romantic relationship.

There are no hard feelings, they realised they wanted different things and are better off as friends. Shona is now focusing on her music and career.

Her time in camp has also sparked light speculation about a potential connection with Aitch, who admitted during a dip in the creek: Ive got a bit of a soft spot for Shona, me.

Co-star Angry Ginge replied: I think shes really nice, if thats what you mean, to which Aitch smiled: Yeah, thats what I mean.
Shoppers smiles of solidarity (Retail Trust)

London shoppers are being urged to show their respect for the store workers who serve them this Christmas by publicly sharing their smiles at major retail locations.

A thousand faces will light up big screens all over the the capital from today - Black Friday - as part of the Retail Trusts Lets Respect Retail campaign to confront the abuse facing the countrys retail workers.

Shoppers can upload their smiles at retailtrust.org.uk/respect and shared smiles will appear on the screen at Piccadilly Circus on 17 December

Smiles from shop workers, members of the public and industry leaders will appear across high streets, shopping centres and landmark sites including Piccadilly Lights, Heathrow Airport and Flannels flagship Oxford Street store, in a united call for respect for retail staff in the run-up to Christmas.

Research by the Retail Trust revealed that 77% of shop staff have experienced intimidating behaviour in the last year with almost one in four being physically assaulted.

More than four out of ten said they are being abused or attacked every week, a rise of 10 percentage point on 2024, when 33% told the Retail Trust they were experiencing weekly verbal or physical assaults.

The charity for retail workers is calling on shoppers to help restore humanity to the high street this Christmas, starting with simple gestures of respect like a hello, thank you or a smile.

Lord Stuart Rose, the former chairman of Marks & Spencer, Asda and Ocado, Charlie Mayfield, the former chairman of the John Lewis Partnership, and Howard Dawber, Londons Deputy Mayor for business, are among those retail bosses to have shared smiles of respect for the Retail Trusts screens.

Chris Brook-Carter, chief executive of the Retail Trust, said: Thoughtless, unkind and aggressive behaviour has become part of the job for too many shop workers today. Its on all of us to help bring humanity back to the high street this Christmas, starting with acts as simple as a thank you, a greeting, and a smile.

The smiles being shared across the country represent the Retail Trusts call for dignity and decency. We know that the smallest acts of respect still make a huge difference to people who are facing daily hostility at work and this is our moment to prove that and to change behaviour.

As well as Piccadilly Circus, Heathrow Airport and Flannels, screens featuring the Retail Trusts smiles of respect will appear at 24 UK shopping centres until Christmas, including Bluewater, Metrocentre, Westfield London and Westfield Stratford, thanks to a partnership with the JCDecaux Community Channel.

Others supporting the campaign include Holland & Barrett, H&M, bp, Landsec and Elevate, the retail media network for Frasers Groups physical and digital advertising spaces, which include Flannels Oxford Street store.

Jo Hayward, vice president, mobility & convenience retail of bp, said: Im proud to support the Retail Trusts Respect Retail campaign. Our retail teams work incredibly hard to deliver great experiences for our customers every single day. Theyre a vital part of our business and a key part of your communities. A smile or thank you goes a long way. Lets show them we care.
Many airline passengers booked to fly on the Airbus A320 family of aircraft could find their flights disrupted while urgent modifications are made to a piece of equipment susceptible to intense solar radiation. A total of 6,500 of the twin-jets are believed to be affected.

In most cases the necessary update is expected to take two hours. With tight scheduling for many aircraft, disruption was widespread in Europe, Asia and Australasia. But Britain's three biggest A320 operators  British Airways, easyJet and Wizz Air  say their operations are unaffected.

The Civil Aviation Authority had warned those aircraft would have to be modified or remain on the ground from Sunday onwards until the software has been changed. But by noon on Saturday Rob Bishton, the CAAs chief executive, said: I want to thank the airlines for working at pace to take this precautionary maintenance action.

Thanks to their diligent and swift efforts, UK aviation has come together to minimise significant passenger disruption.

Diarmuid O Conghaile, chief operations officer at Wizz Air, said: The software update required by Airbus has been successfully implemented overnight on all of its affected Airbus A320 family aircraft. All flights today are operating, with no further disruption now anticipated as a result of the issue.

Air France cancelled more than 50 flights that were scheduled to be operated by Airbus A320 family jets to and from Paris CDG between Friday evening and early afternoon on Saturday. They include an evening flight to Birmingham and the return flight to Paris.

Air New Zealand grounded its entire fleet of A320 aircraft on Saturday morning, but flights have now resumed.

Jetstar cancelled around 90 flights, mostly domestic Australian services, affecting more than 15,000 passengers  mostly flying in or out of Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne. The Australian budget carrier now says: Were expecting all affected aircraft to be ready to return to service overnight, allowing flights to resume as planned on Sunday 30 November.

Airbus issued a dramatic announcement on Friday evening saying: Intense solar radiation may corrupt data critical to the functioning of flight controls.

Airbus has consequently identified a significant number of A320 family aircraft currently in-service which may be impacted.

The equipment in question is the elevator aileron computer (Elac). It controls the elevators that change the pitch of the aircraft, and the ailerons that enable the plane to turn. The fear is that solar radiation acting on the system corrupt data  which may trigger a movement that may result in exceeding the aircrafts structural capability.

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (Easa) has issued an emergency airworthiness directive, effective from 11.59pm on Saturday 29 November, instructing operators of the affected aircraft to take action.

Easas directive says: An Airbus A320 aeroplane recently experienced an uncommanded and limited pitch down event. The autopilot remained engaged throughout the event, with a brief and limited loss of altitude.

It is believed that the incident involved was a JetBlue flight on 30 October from Cancun in Mexico to Newark, New Jersey. At least 15 people were hurt when the aircraft suddenly dropped. The plane made an emergency landing at Tampa in Florida.

Airbus said it identified a malfunction of the affected Elac as possible contributing factor.

The planemaker said: This condition, if not corrected, could lead in the worst-case scenario to an uncommanded elevator movement that may result in exceeding the aircrafts structural capability.

The fix for most of the planes involves a software update, taking around two hours. But for around 900 of the aircraft, new hardware is required. Airbus says it is working to accelerate delivery of the hardware to affected airlines.

The Airbus A320 family, which includes the A319 and A321, is now the worlds most popular shorthaul plane. It overtook the Boeing 737 in terms of deliveries last month.

According to Cirium data, the A320 family operated 1,414,516 flights in September alone  roughly 2,000 take-offs and landings every hour. Around 8 million seats depart each day on the series of aircraft.

A senior UK aviation source said: Its a serious issue but one which looks to be tackled very rapidly, and that in turn will exacerbate disruption to passengers.

Its a reminder that where passengers can take safety for granted, everyone in the aviation industry cannot and this is one of those rare occasions where decisive action is clearly needed to protect safety.

The transport secretary, Heidi Alexander, said: I am aware of the technical issue impacting certain aircraft and concerns over how this will affect passengers and flights this evening. Passengers who are due to fly this weekend should check with their carriers for the latest information.

The good news is it seems the impact on UK airlines seems limited with a smaller number of aircraft requiring more complex software and hardware changes.

I would really like to thank the experts, staff and airlines who are working at pace to address this and reassure passengers that work is ongoing. It is heartening this issue has been identified and will be addressed so swiftly demonstrating the high aviation safety standards globally.

The Colombian national airline, Avianca, said that 70 per cent of its fleet was affected and warned significant disruptions to operations will inevitably occur over the next 10 days. The carrier has stopped selling new flights up to and including 8 December to avoid a greater impact and to be able to rebook passengers on available flights.

On Friday afternoon and evening, Avianca cancelled a dozen flights to and from its hub at Bogota  mostly on domestic links.

Read more: Airbus grounding: What rights do you have to compensation for cancelled flights?
Supporters of Angela Rayner and Andy Burnham have let the Labour Government know what they think of the changes to the workers rights bill

Angela Rayner and Andy Burnhams allies have turned on Sir Keir Starmer after the Prime Minister tore up a central pledge in the workers rights bill.

The Government is under fire from its own MPs and supporters after it announced on Thursday that plans to allow employees to sue for unfair dismissal from day one of their employment had been abandoned.

The plans had been championed by Ms Rayner, who was Sir Keirs deputy until her resignation in September following a Telegraph investigation that exposed her tax affairs.

The backlash has been led by Justin Madders, who was the employment minister and Ms Rayners enforcer for the legislation until Sir Keir sacked him in September.

Mr Madders said: It might be a compromise. It might even be necessary to get the bill passed, as soon as possible. But it most definitely is a manifesto breach.

Meanwhile, Mainstream, a soft-Left pressure group launched in September with an endorsement from Mr Burnham, accused the Prime Minister of leaving unions high and dry.

A Mainstream spokesman said: Ensuring millions of workers have enhanced sick-pay protection, defending improvements in collective rights, and progress on guaranteed hours are good outcomes from this compromise if it sticks.

But we have to be clear: the delay in introducing this legislation, an unwillingness to use the Parliament Act, and the bad faith interference of those who would see Labour ditch the whole project have left unions high and dry in the wrangling of the last few weeks.

Its time for a change of direction and the development of a second Employment Rights Act which fulfils manifesto commitments on single worker status and sectoral collective bargaining  policies that are popular with the mainstream of the Labour Party and the country.

Sir Keir Starmer tore up a central pledge in the workers rights bill championed by his former deputy Angela Rayner - Anadolu

Both Mr Burnham and Ms Rayner have been tipped as potential successors to the Prime Minister, whose political future has been the source of growing speculation in recent weeks.

The Mayor of Greater Manchester has repeatedly refused to rule out challenging Sir Keir despite not currently sitting as an MP, which means he would need to return to Parliament.

Earlier this month, The Telegraph revealed that Ms Rayner was laying the groundwork for a leadership challenge of her own by offering Cabinet roles to MPs in exchange for their support.

The change to the workers rights bill is the latest in a series of politically embarrassing about-turns for Sir Keir, whose first 18 months in power have been marred by backbench rebellions.

He was forced into climbdowns on cuts to the winter fuel allowance and welfare spending. He also backtracked on his initial refusal to hold a national grooming gang inquiry.

On Friday, Downing Street admitted it had wanted to introduce the Employment Rights Bill in full prior to talks with businesses and unions.

Asked why journalists had been told earlier in the week that the Government would overturn any attempts to scupper its plans, a No10 spokesman said: It was our position as of that moment that going into those talks we wanted to deliver those reforms as swiftly as possible and in full.

But as Ive said we committed in our manifesto to consult with unions and businesses fully Weve agreed a pragmatic way forward and a partnership with businesses and unions means we remain on track to delivering better rights for workers from April 2026.

Latest Starmer U-turn

Sir Keirs latest about-turn came a day after the Government unveiled 30bn of tax rises and scrapped the two-child benefit cap in an attempt to appease Left-wing backbench critics.

At last years general election, the Labour manifesto said it would consult fully with businesses, workers and civil society on measures in the Employment Rights Bill.

It added: This will include banning exploitative zero-hours contracts; ending fire and rehire; and introducing basic rights from day one to parental leave, sick pay, and protection from unfair dismissal.

But the changes made by the Prime Minister mean that staff will have to be employed by a company for six months before they can sue for unfair dismissal, a reduction from the present rule of two years.

In further comments to The Times, Mr Madders said: The U-turn on a manifesto commitment which had been passed by the Commons multiple times is a very serious matter and we will need a great deal of convincing that this is the right thing to do.

Justin Madders says Labour MPs will need a great deal of convincing that the about-turn is the right thing to do

Left-wing backbenchers who served in the shadow cabinet under Jeremy Corbyn also expressed fury, warning Sir Keir that they were poised to rebel against the watered-down legislation.

Richard Burgon, a former shadow justice secretary, said: My years working as a trade union lawyer  before becoming an MP  showed me exactly why every worker needs full employment rights from day one. Just as the Labour manifesto promised.

If this report is true, the Government needs to understand that this fight is far from over.

Andy McDonald, the MP for Middlesbrough and Thornaby East, added: The plans announced to merely reduce the qualifying period for unfair dismissal, from two years to six months, is a complete betrayal.

We cannot support that halfway measure... This is a wrong-headed move, and I will campaign to have this concession reversed.

Rachael Maskell, the Labour MP for York Central, told the PA news agency: Employers have nothing to fear from day-one rights, but workers have everything to fear from an employer who doesnt want day-one rights.

As of Friday morning, a total of a dozen Labour MPs had expressed or signalled their opposition to the climbdown.

In response to the backlash over the manifesto breach, Bridget Phillipson, the Education Secretary, declared, thats life.

Ms Philipson told Sky News: Sometimes you have to be pragmatic. Thats life sometimes, you do have to adopt some pragmatism if you want to make sure you get the wider package through.

She added: The Employment Rights Bill is the biggest upgrade to workers rights in a generation. There has been discussion on the point around unfair dismissal and the time period between businesses, the TUC and the Government.

Following that discussion, theres been agreement about the way forward, which is welcome.

Sir Keirs decision risks a row with Ms Rayner, who is yet to publicly address the about-turn but has repeatedly insisted the Employment Rights Bill should be introduced in full.

Biggest boost to rights at work in a generation

In a Commons debate about the legislation earlier this month, Ms Rayner said: We are going to strengthen sick pay, family rights, bereavement leave and protections from sexual harassment at work.

We will have a ban on zero-hours contracts, a historic fair pay agreement in social care, an end to fire and rehire, a genuine living wage and the single biggest boost to rights at work in a generation, creating an economy that works for working people.

That was the promise we made to the British public, and I urge the Secretary of State to fight every step of the way to deliver it in full.

Ms Rayners departure from Sir Keirs top team came after The Telegraph revealed she had failed to pay 40,000 in stamp duty on the sale of her seaside flat.

The row follows Sir Keir and Rachel Reeves, his Chancellor, also reneging on a manifesto promise not to raise taxes on working people in this weeks Budget.

The Prime Minister and Ms Reeves have both claimed that the partys specific manifesto commitments on income tax, VAT and National Insurance have not been breached.

But Ms Reevess decision to extend a freeze on income tax thresholds until 2030-31 means that 1.7 million tax bands will be dragged into higher tax bands by the end of the decade.

On Friday, TTSA, a Labour-affiliated transport union, called on Sir Keir to reinstate the day-one right to claim unfair dismissal.

Maryam Eslamdoust, the general secretary of TTSA, added: This is a very significant watering down of the Employment Rights Bill and a breach of Labours manifesto commitment  one we do not support.
Survivors on narco boat targeted by Trump order were blown apart after Hegseth verbal command to kill everybody: Report

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reportedly gave a verbal order to leave no survivors behind as Donald Trumps administration launched the first of more than a dozen attacks on alleged drug-running boats that have killed more than 80 people over the last three months.

On September 2, U.S. military personnel fired a missile striking a vessel in the Caribbean that carried 11 people accused of trafficking drugs into the United States.

When two survivors emerged from the wreckage, a Special Operations commander overseeing the attack ordered a second strike to comply with Hegseths instructions to kill everybody, according to The Washington Post, citing officials with direct knowledge of the operation.

The two men were then blown apart in the water, according to the report.

News of Hegseths alleged command follows intense legal scrutiny from international investigators and members of Congress alleging that the Trump administrations deadly campaign amounts to illegal extrajudicial killings, which law-of-war experts speaking to The Independent have labeled outright murder and a war crime.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth allegedly instructed military personnel to leave no survivors behind as the Trump administration launched a series of strikes targeting boats suspected to carrying drugs towards the United States (REUTERS)

The Department of Defense has no response to this post and declines to comment further, a Pentagon spokesperson told The Independent Friday.

Chief Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell told The Washington Post that the newspapers entire narrative is completely false and that ongoing operations to dismantle narcoterrorism and to protect the Homeland from deadly drugs have been a resounding success.

In a statement on Friday evening, Hegseth criticized what he called fabricated, inflammatory, and derogatory reporting but he did not refute the claims.

As weve said from the beginning, and in every statement, these highly effective strikes are specifically intended to be lethal, kinetic strikes, he wrote on X. The declared intent is to stop lethal drugs, destroy narco-boats, and kill the narco-terrorists who are poisoning the American people.

He claimed the airstrikes are compliant with U.S. and international law and under rules of armed conflict, approved by the best military and civilian lawyers, up and down the chain of command, he added.

In September, the Trump administration told Congress that the United States is formally engaged in an armed conflict with drug cartels that the president has labeled unlawful combatants.

Administration officials have labeled cartels nonstate armed groups whose actions constitute an armed attack against the United States and are now engaged in a noninternational armed conflict  or war with a non-state actor.

In the weeks that followed, the Trump administration directed more than a dozen strikes that have killed more than 80 people on vessels in the Caribbean and Pacific Ocean but have not publicly provided any evidence or legal justification for their deaths, according to lawmakers and civil rights groups.

A newly unveiled legal memo from the Department of Justice claims military personnel involved in the strikes wont face criminal prosecution in the future, a defense that legal experts and national security scholars say has failed to prevent exposure to potential criminal liability.

The alleged traffickers pose no imminent threat to the United States and are not in what the administration has labeled an armed conflict with the country, according to officials and experts.

The term for premeditated killing outside of armed conflict is murder, said Brian Finucane, senior adviser with the International Crisis Group, a conflict policy nonprofit.

And the Trump administration has not established that these strikes are taking place in an armed conflict nor that the targets would be lawful under the law of war, he told The Independent this month.

Donald Trump shared video of a missile strike on September 2 that killed11 people on a boat that officials claim was carrying drugs headed toward the United States (White House)

While its not clear what instructions the Justice Department's Office of Legal Counsel has provided the administration, the White House appears to be using that guidance as a legal permission slip to commit acts that might otherwise be criminal, according to Finucane.

Asked why he wont seek permission from Congress for his military campaign taking aim at South American regimes he claims are fueling a drug epidemic in the United States, Trump has said his government is just going to kill people instead.

I dont think we're going to necessarily ask for a declaration of war. I think were just going to kill people that are bringing drugs into our country, OK? Were going to kill them, Trump said during a White House roundtable with administration officials last month.

Theyre going to be, like, dead, OK, he said.

Trump shared a 29-second drone footage of the first strike on September 2 in a post on his Truth Social account the following day, warning that that the attack also served as a notice to anybody even thinking about bringing drugs into the United States of America. BEWARE!

The president said the 11 people on board were terrorists from the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, which the administration has labeled a foreign terrorist organization.

Admiral Frank M. Mitch Bradley, the commander overseeing the operation from Fort Bragg in North Carolina, told personnel involved in the strike that survivors were legitimate targets because they could theoretically call other traffickers to retrieve them and their cargo, according to people with knowledge of the command who spoke to The Washington Post.

Bradley allegedly ordered the second strike to fulfill Hegseths command to kill all onboard.

At the time of the attack, he led the Joint Special Operations Command, which operates under command of the U.S. Special Operations Command and typically is responsible for performing classified military operations. He was later promoted to lead the parent organization.

SEAL Team 6  formally known as the Naval Special Warfare Development Group, which handles complex and classified operations that may include higher-profile targets  reportedly performed intelligence collection to determine who was on the boat.

News of the so-called double tap strike was first reported by The Intercept within days after the attack.

Trump administration officials have posted drone-captured footage on social media chronicling more than a dozen attacks on alleged drug-carrying vessels that law-of-war experts say amount to illegal extrajudicial killings (US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth)

Earlier this month, members of Congress last month received closed-door briefings on the attacks from administration officials, who were unable to provide any credible explanation for its extrajudicial and unauthorized attacks, according to Rep. Gregory Meeks, the top Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

The legal justifications are dubious and meant to circumvent Congress constitutional power on matters of war and peace, he said in a statement following the briefings.

Top Democrats on House committees overseeing national intelligence, armed forces and foreign affairs have also demanded a vote on a resolution to block the Trump administration from continuing the strikes.

The Trump administration has not provided a credible rationale for its 21 unauthorized military strikes on vessels in the Western Hemisphere, which have resulted in the extrajudicial killings of dozens of individuals, they said in a joint statement last week.

Nor has this administration explained why it has deployed an invasion-level force of roughly 15,000 troops, a carrier strike group, and military aircraft for a mission it claims is about counter-narcotics, they added. This posture is wildly disproportionate to the stated objective and far more reminiscent of preparations for war.
Law enforcement officers seen near Farragut Square where two national guards were shot. Photograph: Nathan Posner/Shutterstock

The suspected shooter of two national guard members in Washington DC on Wednesday worked with CIA-backed military units during the US war in Afghanistan, the agency has confirmed.

The alleged gunman, identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, came to the US in September 2021 under an Operation Allies Welcome program that gave some Afghans who had worked for the US government entry visas to the US. He was granted asylum in April this year, under the Trump administration, Reuters reported.

Lakanwals ties to the Central Intelligence Agency, which worked alongside US special forces in Afghanistan, were confirmed by the CIA director, John Ratcliffe, to media outlets.

The New York Times reported that the shooting suspect had worked for several US government agencies in Afghanistan, including CIA-backed units in the southern province of Kandahar, a stronghold of the Taliban.

The Washington Post, citing anonymous sources, said those CIA-backed units included counterterrorism squads known as the zero units, which were involved in combat missions to seize or kill suspected terrorists.

The Biden administration justified bringing the alleged shooter to the United States in September 2021 due to his prior work with the US government, including CIA, Ratcliffe told Fox News digital, adding that Lakanwals involvement with the agency was as a member of a partner force in Kandahar, which ended shortly following the chaotic evacuation.

The two victims in the attack were named as Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and Andrew Wolfe, 24. Both are members of the West Virginia national guard .

Beckstrom succumbed to her injuries on Thursday evening, Donald Trump said. Beckstroms father had told the New York Times in a phone call earlier in the day that his daughter was unlikely to recover. Im holding her hand right now, Gary Beckstrom said. She has a mortal wound. Its not going to be a recovery.

Wolfe was fighting for his life, according to the president.

Both Beckstrom and Wolfe had both been sworn into service less than 24 hours before they were ambushed at a bus stop by the suspect.

A man reached at the family home of Wolfe told a reporter at the outlet: All we need right now are prayers for my son.

Jeanine Pirro, US attorney for Washington DC, said at a news conference Thursday that the suspect had used a .357 Smith & Wesson revolver, shooting one guard member twice before turning to fire at the second.

She said the two wounded national guards had put their lives on the line to protect people they dont even know.

Other national guard members at the scene had engaged and neutralized the suspect, she said.

The suspect is under arrest and being treated at a hospital.

Pirro said he drove across the US from his home in Bellingham, Washington, with a plan to conduct what she called a brazen and targeted assault.

The prosecutor said Lakanwal would be charged with three counts of a assault with intent to kill while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence. Pirro said that if the national guard members do not survive, then charges could be increased to murder in the first degree.

The FBI director, Kash Patel, told the news conference the agency is investigating the shooting as an act of terrorism. Law enforcement agencies had executed search warrants at the suspects home in Washington and in San Diego, California.

This is a coast-to-coast investigation, Patel said.

The mayor of Washington, Muriel Bowser, who has criticized the Trump administrations deployment of national guard in the district, said: These young people should be at home in West Virginia with their families.

Patel also confirmed the suspects relationship with US forces in Afghanistan. The investigation, he said, would include any known associates of the suspect overseas and in the US.

Following the shooting, Donald Trump ordered 500 additional national guard troops to Washington DC.

He was quick to cast the blame for the shooting on the Biden administration, accusing it of failing to properly vet migrants from Afghanistan. And he signalled he considered the attack justification for a broad review of asylum and green card applications.

We must now re-examine every single alien who has entered our country from Afghanistan under Biden, and we must take all necessary measures to ensure the removal of any alien from any country who does not belong here, or add benefit to our country, Trump said on Wednesday. If they cant love our country, we dont want them.

The leaders of several federal agencies have promised reviews.US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said that it has stopped processing residency applications from Afghan nationals.

Effective immediately, processing of all immigration requests relating to Afghan nationals is stopped indefinitely pending further review of security and vetting protocols, the agency said on social media.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) meanwhile it was expanding that to include a review of all asylum cases approved under the Biden administration. DHS did not clarify whether it is reviewing all asylum cases from only Afghanistan or from other countries, as well.

The USCIS director, Joseph Edlow, later added he was also directing a full-scale, rigorous re-examination of every green card for every alien from every country of concern at Trumps request. When asked what countries were considered of concern, USCIS pointed at Trumps executive order restricted the entry to the US of nationals of 19 countries.
Mohamed Al Najjar, right, and his brother Muhanad claim that their father, Khaled, acted alone in murdering their sister Ryan, left - Hollandse Hoogte/Shutterstock

Two Syrian brothers are on trial in the Netherlands accused of murdering their teenage sister over her Western behaviour.

Mohamed Al Najjar, 23, and his brother Muhanad, 25, are alleged to have gagged, bound and thrown 18-year-old Ryan Al Najjar in a swamp after discovering she had a boyfriend, which prosecutors claim brought shame on the family.

Their father, Khaled, is accused of ordering the honour killing and has reportedly fled to Syria.

Ryans body was found submerged in a swamp six days after she disappeared from the family home in Joure.

The discovery was made by a passer-by on May 28 in Lelystad, around 25 miles north-east of Amsterdam.

DNA belonging to her father was found lodged under Ryans fingernails by investigators, suggesting that she had fought back before she was killed.

Her father is to be tried in absentia.

Dutch prosecutors have claimed that Ryan was killed for having a boyfriend, behaving in a way that was Western and had shamed her family.

Her killing has been formally designated as an honour killing by the Dutch public prosecution service.

The brothers plead their innocence and claim that their father murdered Ryan alone.

It has been reported that Khaled wrote two emails to Dutch media outlets saying his sons were innocent and that he was fully responsible, but prosecutors have rejected the claim.

They counter that Khaled ordered his sons to collect Ryan before driving her to a remote location and throwing her into open water while she was gagged and weighed down.

Before her death, Ryan had been monitored by police and provided protection, but this was ended soon before her murder.

Nieuwsuur, a Dutch current affairs programme, has reported that Khaled is now in northern Syria and has since remarried.

The Netherlands has no way of securing his return, the Dutch ministry of justice and security told the programme.

The possibilities for criminal co-operation with Syria are currently not available, the ministry said. The criminal justice authorities required for this co-operation are not [yet] operational in Syria.

The gagged and bound body of Ryan Al Najjar was discovered in a swamp by a passer-by

Syrias own ministry of justice denied this, saying that the extradition system had been rebuilt.

Minister Mazhar al-Wais said that may have been the case in the beginning when the regime had just fallen and now the Syrian justice system has been fully restored.

He added that the country was ready, noting that Syria has already received three legal assistance requests from European nations.

We will provide the necessary legal assistance in accordance with the regulations, he said.

The Syrian minister also claimed that his government had never received a request from the Netherlands concerning this case.

It is estimated that police in the Netherlands provide heavy protection each year to at least five women at risk of honour killings.

Reports from multiple countries indicate that honour killings and related abuses have risen in Europe over the past 20 to 30 years.
Keir Starmer with the European Commission president, Ursula von der Leyen, in Brussels. Photograph: Omar Havana/AP

Keir Starmers attempt to reset relations with the EU have suffered a major blow, after negotiations for the UK to join the EUs flagship 150bn (131bn) defence fund collapsed.

The UK had been pushing to join the EUs Security Action for Europe (Safe) fund, a low-interest loan scheme that is part of the EUs drive to boost defence spending by 800bn and rearm the continent, in response to the growing threat from Russia and cooling relations between Donald Trumps US and the EU.

Entrance to the scheme would have enabled the British government to secure a bigger role for its defence firms. In September, France proposed a ceiling on the value of UK-produced military components in the fund.

The UK and EU had been expected to sign a technical agreement on Safe after establishing an administrative fee from London. But after months of wrangling, and only days before the 30 November deadline for an agreement, sources said the two sides remained far apart on the financial contribution Britain would make, Bloomberg reported.

EU officials have suggested an entry fee of up to 6bn, far higher than the administrative fee the government had envisaged paying. Peter Ricketts, the veteran former diplomat who chairs the European affairs committee in the House of Lords, described a rumoured 6.5bn fee as so off the scale that it suggests some EU members dont want the UK in the scheme.

The minister for EU relations, Nick Thomas-Symonds, said it was disappointing that talks had fallen through but insisted that the UK defence industry would still be able to participate in projects through Safe on third-country terms.

While it is disappointing that we have not been able to conclude discussions on UK participation in the first round of Safe, the UK defence industry will still be able to participate in projects through Safe on third-country terms.

Negotiations were carried out in good faith, but our position was always clear: we will only sign agreements that are in the national interest and provide value for money.

Related: Loan scheme to rearm Europe could be important breakthrough in Ukraine support

The door to greater UK participation appeared to have been pushed open in May when Starmer and the European Commission president, Ursula von der Leyen, signed an EU-UK security and defence partnership. Without this pact, the UK could never supply more than 35% of the value of components of any Safe-funded project.

As recently as last week, the prime minister had expressed a belief that quiet diplomacy would result in agreement, telling reporters travelling with him to the G20 summit in South Africa: Negotiations are going on in the usual way and they will continue.

He added: I hope we can find an acceptable solution, but my strong view is that these things are better done quietly through diplomacy than exchanging views through the media.

But soon after, the talks appeared to be on rocky ground after the defence secretary, John Healey, said the UK was willing to quit, telling the i newspaper the UK was not willing to sign up for any price.

Thomas-Symonds sought to downplay the significance of the collapse of negotiations on Friday, stating: From leading the Coalition of the Willing for Ukraine to strengthening our relationships with allies, the UK is stepping up on European security in the face of rising threats and remains committed to collaborating with our allies and partners. In the last year alone, we have struck defence agreements across Europe and we will continue this close cooperation.

He added that the UK and EU were continuing to make strong progress on the historic UK-EU May agreement that supports jobs, bills and borders.
Police are investigating the collision (PA Archive)

Two women have died and a nine-year-old boy was left fighting for his life after a crash on the border of Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.

Police were called to the collision between a Vauxhall Meriva and a Suzuki Alto on Common Lane in Pleasley at around 6.20am on Thursday. Officers arrested an 18-year-old man on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving at the scene.

Two women in their twenties, who were passengers in a Suzuki, were pronounced dead at the scene. A nine-year-old boy, who was a passenger in the same car, has been rushed to hospital where he remains in a life-threatening condition, Derbyshire Police said.

Three men who were in the Vauxhall were also injured, two of them seriously, according to the force.

Officers are now appealing for information and have asked anyone who may have seen the collision or have knowledge that may assist the investigation to come forward.

In a statement, the force said: Officers are appealing for witnesses and information after two people died in a collision in Pleasley.

The collision, involving a Vauxhall Meriva and a Suzuki Alto, occurred in Common Lane at around 6.20am on Thursday 27 November.

Two women in their 20s, who were in the Suzuki, were pronounced dead at the scene. Their families are aware and our thoughts are with them. A nine-year-old boy, who was a passenger in the Suzuki, has been taken to hospital with life-changing injuries.

Three men who were in the Vauxhall were also injured, two of them seriously.

An 18-year-old man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. Due to the injuries he sustained in the collision he was taken to hospital where he remains.

We are keen to speak to anyone who witnessed the collision as well as anyone with any information.
HANGZHOU, China, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Hangzhou's annual Innovation & Entrepreneurship Competition for Overseas Talents, themed "Creating the World  Sailing to the Future", is a concentrated demonstration of this comprehensive service system. The competition not only features dedicated sessions for overseas-educated talents and foreigners, but also provides entrepreneurial mentors, customized training programs, and facilitates connections with investors through job fairs, startup salons, and events such as the Maker Rainbow Bridge.

More importantly, to encourage greater participation from overseas talents, projects that win the competition not only receive prize money, but also enjoy comprehensive policy support after landing, including tax incentives, rent subsidies, financing guarantees, and interest-subsidized loans.

To date, Hangzhou has established 11 entrepreneurship parks for overseas-educated talents, spanning national, provincial, and municipal levels. In addition, the municipally operated "Overseas Returnee Town Entrepreneurship Park", led by private capital, has further expanded the capacity for overseas-educated entrepreneurs.

Hangzhou's consistent ranking over 14 years as the "Most Attractive Chinese City for Foreign Talent", along with its leading net inflow of overseas talents nationwide, owes a good deal to its favorable entrepreneurial environment and strong alignment with industry needs.

The "Creating the World  Sailing to the Future" Innovation & Entrepreneurship Competition for Overseas Talents 2025  Hangzhou closely follows the city's industrial development trends, covering key sectors such as the digital economy, life and health, and advanced manufacturing, while also introducing cutting-edge industries including artificial intelligence, humanoid robotics, brain-inspired intelligence and digital medicine, helping overseas-educated projects integrate into Hangzhou's dynamic growth.

Over the past eleven years, the competition has attracted more than 12,000 projects, with nearly 400 of them landing in Hangzhou and a total registered capital exceeding 3 billion RMB. PhD holders and teams from countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany have chosen Hangzhou as their first stop for entrepreneurship, further demonstrating the city's international influence and strong appeal to global talent.

Hangzhou's 'first choice for overseas-educated entrepreneurs' has evolved from a slogan into a genuine option for a growing number of international talents. This environment offers both robust policy support and unparalleled industrial opportunities. In the future, the city is set to become a shining landmark on the global innovation map.

The Hangzhou's Innovation & Entrepreneurship Competition for Overseas Talents 2026 has launched a global call for participation, and we are looking forward to your joining.

SOURCE HZICC
First responders at the scene after a 12-year-old trapped in a sand hole in Texas (The Woodlands Fire Department)

A Thanksgiving outing for a Texas family came close to tragedy after a 12-year-old girl became trapped in a sand hole that caved in around her.

First responders were called to the Spring Creek trail in The Woodlands, a northern suburb of Houston, around 5 p.m. Thursday to a report of a child trapped under sand, Woodlands Fire Department said.

The young girl was on a family outing when she became trapped after a large hole she was digging in the sand collapsed, covering her completely, the department said.

Her father sprang into action and quickly cleared the sand from around her head, allowing her to breathe while they waited for rescue crews to get her out of the collapsed hole.

When crews arrived, they found the patient with just her face and head showing, the fire department added.

A 12-year-old Texas girl was saved by first responders after a hole in the sand that she had dug collapsed around her on Thanksgiving (The Woodlands Fire Department)

Crews responded to reports of the trapped girl around 5 p.m. Thursday (The Woodlands Fire Department)

Crews worked quickly to shore up the area and then carefully cleared away the sand to extricate the patient.

The girl was then evaluated by medics before she was released to her parents. Her parents declined transport to the hospital, the department said, without specifying whether she needed further medical treatment.

First responders from four agencies worker together seamlessly to turn a near tragedy into a Thanksgiving story that will be told for decades! the fire department added.

The department did not identify the little girl who was trapped.

Crews were able to remove the sand from around the girl and save her (The Woodlands Fire Department)

Collapsed sand holes have proven deadly for beachgoers in the past. Last year, a seven-year-old Indiana girl died after falling in a collapsed sand hole while on vacation with her family in Florida.

The girl had been digging a hole at Lauderdale-by-the-Seas beach with her nine-year-old brother when the sand collapsed, opening into a five-foot hole. Maddox was buried up to his chest, while his younger sister was completely submerged.

Rescuers arrived in minutes as bystanders attempted to dig the children out. She was taken to the hospital where she was later pronounced dead.

Three years ago, an 18-year-old died after he and his 17-year-old sister were trapped in a sand collapse at a beach in Ocean County, New Jersey. His sister was rescued by the police.
Health workers in the DRC

As the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is poised to declare its latest Ebola outbreak over, a former US government official who led the response to the deadly virus in 2014 has warned that future outbreaks could spiral out of control because of Donald Trumps aid cuts.

Jeremy Konyndyk, most recently an official in Joe Bidens government and now president of Refugees International, told The Independent he feared there would be large and complex outbreaks in the future that will get out of control because the US government health security preparedness and response capacity has been dismantled.

The last Ebola patient in the current outbreak in the DRC was discharged from hospital on 19 October, triggering a 42-day countdown to declaring the outbreak over if no further cases are confirmed, the World Health Organization (WHO) said. This is twice the maximum time it takes for someone exposed to the virus to start showing symptoms.

The Ebola virus is spread to humans by animals, and causes internal and external bleeding. It has a death rate that reaches between 50 to 90 per cent unless patients receive very rapid treatment.

If no new cases are detected, the outbreak will be declared over in early December, the WHO said.

While the outbreak was on track to being contained, I think it's important not to over-interpret the relevance of that vis-a-vis the USA, Konyndyk said.

The 2025 Ebola outbreak in Bulape, DRC has proven easier to contain than some previous outbreaks. Cuts could change that in the future. (MSF)

When Trump took office in January, he cut roughly 80 per cent of all overseas aid including to teams primed to respond to emergency disease outbreaks.

This is, as things go, a relatively more straightforward containment operation than other outbreaks you might see. It's in a peaceful part of Congo. It's in a country that has dealt with this a lot before and has a lot of capacity. It has that capacity in part because of the sort of investments the US made which are now being cut, Konyndyk added.

The US previously provided training to local infectious disease experts, funded laboratories, vaccines and treatments as well as prevention. Stockpiles of things like drugs and personal protective equipment (PPE) are not being maintained.

The progress and success that's apparent so far in the present outbreak is built on the very investments that the Trump administration is now systematically dismantling, Konyndyk explained. This included investments that had been made by governments of different colours including by Trump himself during his first administration. That's just been completely shredded. It's gone.

Fortunately the outbreak did not metastasise into something larger and more complex that might have exceeded those capacities. But we cant count on being fortunate indefinitely, Konyndyk added.

This time, other donors including in European countries stepped in to fill the gap. However, countries across the rich world are set to cut overseas aid in the coming years.

And while the WHO is well-versed in leading outbreaks response, the UN health agency has also faced deep cuts this year including from the US, with more set to come.

That to my mind is the question for the future, Konyndyk said. If this same outbreak happens in two years time...will those capabilities still be at the level that they are now?

This outbreak started with a 34-year-old pregnant woman who was admitted to hospital at the end of August and died within five days. Two health workers treating her also became infected and died.

It is the sixteenth Ebola outbreak the country has faced since the disease was first discovered there in the mid-70s.

International organisations are now withdrawing from the country including Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) teams which handed over their work on 19 October, the same day the last patient was discharged.
Donald Trump could recognise Russias illegal annexation of Crimea and other occupied territories in an appeasement of the Kremlins key demands for a peace deal, according to a report.

The US president is said to have sent special envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner to Moscow with the expressed intention of offering Vladimir Putin US recognition of the occupied territories in return for a peace deal.

A source told The Telegraph: Its increasingly clear the Americans dont care about the European position. They say the Europeans can do whatever they want.

Russia has refused to budge on its maximalist demands for a deal to end their war in Ukraine. On Thursday, Putin said his forces would fight on until the last Ukrainian dies, in chilling comments that underlined Moscows reluctance to engage with the peace process. Meanwhile, Europe has been making the case to Washington that Kyiv must have territorial sovereignty and security guarantees in any agreement.

Putin said on Thursday that Washingtons legal recognition of Crimea and the Donbas as Russian would be in focus when Russian officials speak with Witkoff next week.

The Independent has contacted the White House for comment.

Ukraines top negotiator, Andriy Yermak, said in his swan song interview before resigning on Friday that Zelensky would never allow Ukraine to cede land to Russia and not a single sane person today would sign a document to give up territory.

Russia is demanding territory from Ukraine it has devastated throughout the course of the nearly four-year war (AFP/Getty)

Ukraine has been engaging in attempts to find an agreeable solution to end the war, but has repeatedly ruled out handing over what it still holds of the Donbas, its eastern industrial heartland that is coveted by Putin. Zelenskys government is bound by its constitution not to give it up.

The original 28-point plan floated by the Trump administration suggested Washington could recognise Crimea, Luhansk and Donetsk as de facto Russia. Kherson and Zaporizhzhia would be recognised de facto Russian along frozen frontlines.

Europe was incensed by the brash offer to effectively hand away Ukraines territory and shot back with a counterproposal last week that negotiations should start from frozen lines.

Kyiv and the US worked to iron out fundamental differences over the weekend and both delegations came away hailing progress. But Russia still has to agree to terms, and remains obstinate on the issue of giving back territory it has captured since the war began in February 2022.

"Ukrainian troops must withdraw from the territories they hold, and then the fighting will cease. If they don't leave, then we shall achieve this by force. That's it, Putin said on Thursday.

Andriy Yermak (right) said Ukraines Zelensky (left) would never give up land before he resigned on Friday amid an anti-corruption probe (Reuters)

The Kremlin said on Friday that Moscow is working on the assumption that it is negotiating a peace plan solely with the United States.

Russia also expects to have information on the agreed points of a proposed peace plan by the time Witkoff and his delegation arrives next week, Interfax reported.

Kyiv kept up the pressure on Friday as Russias defence ministry reported having shot down 136 drones over several regions including the annexed Crimean peninsula overnight. Damage to cars, residential buildings and houses was reported by local authorities in Russias Rostov and Voronezh regions.

Russia meanwhile continue to claim gains in and around the beleaguered city of Pokrovsk. Putin said on Thursday that Russian forces were now in control of 70 per cent of the vital transport hub. On Friday, the defence ministry said Ukrainian troops had been cleared from more than 6,500 buildings in the last week as fierce fighting raged.

Moscow has been trying to take full control of Pokrovsk since mid-2024 as part of its push to take the whole of the wider Donbas industrial region.
ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS/AFP

By November 1917, what we now call the First World War had gone on for well over three years. A former Foreign Secretary, the Marquess of Lansdowne, who had earlier lost a son in combat, wrote to this newspaper. We published his letter 108 years ago on Saturday.

Lansdowne called for a negotiated peace with Germany, because We are not going to lose this war, but its prolongation will spell ruin for the civilised world. He sought an agreement on security and reparations which would readmit Germany into the comity of nations.

His intervention was widely condemned as naive, even defeatist. Most historians agree that Germany would not have responded in good faith, even if the British Government had taken up his proposal. But Lord Lansdownes anguish at the war itself was justified. In an earlier note to ministerial colleagues, he had protested that We are slowly but surely killing off the best of the male population of these islands, which was true.

President Trump may not have heard of the Lansdowne Letter, but he too says he minds about the death of hundreds of thousands in war, and therefore seeks peace.

The Russo-Ukrainian war was started by Russia when it occupied Crimea in 2014. The catastrophe came with Putins full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, in between the two Trump presidencies (and therefore, in Trumps view, all Joe Bidens fault). By June next year, this catastrophic phase will have lasted as long as the First World War.

Actual war has not (yet) engulfed all Europe, and so the casualties are lower than in 1914-18 or 1939-45. Nevertheless, they are the next worst thing in living European memory  perhaps over a million. In the past five months, Russia, though widely alleged to be winning on the battlefield, is thought to have lost 25,000-28,000 men dead or wounded  roughly the same number as arrived at the front in the same period. The Ukrainian casualty toll is smaller, but still shocking  and there were far fewer Ukrainians in the first place.

President Trump rightly observes that the killing is horrible. Because he is such an aggressive man people tend to assume his concern is affected. He certainly has additional motives in wanting peace. He seeks lucrative deals for his country and himself, and  still more important to a man who sees his life as one extended Oscars ceremony  the Nobel Peace Prize.

But it may help to accept the sincerity of Trumps longing for peace because it may help explain his mistakes. He is a critic of the belligerence of Americas imperial presidency: it gets in the way of prosperity and spoils the American dream. His vision of Gaza, for example, as a new tourist Riviera, reveals him as the capitalist version of a peacenik.

That is the problem. The trouble with peaceniks is not their sincerity but their naivete. They do not understand why anyone would want to fight, and do not bother to try. As they sang in 1969, All we are saying, is give peace a chance, The Plastic Ono Band then and Donald Trump (23 at the time) still. He may be more of a hippy than he looks. Give peace a chance cannot be all that a true peacemaker says. The true peacemaker talks to both sides to find out where, if anywhere, that chance for peace might lie.

Perhaps the most striking thing about Trumps approach to Ukraine is his profound lack of interest in the issues involved, especially as they affect Ukraine. Neither he, nor his isolationist vice-president J.D.Vance, nor the Presidents special envoy, Steve Witkoff, has ever been to Ukraine. All, in effect, deny Ukraines right to decide its own future.

None shows any interest in the way European peace was internationally constructed after victory in the Second World War. None appears to understand why the doctrine that the borders of Europe must never been changed by force is the key to  or rather, the lock on  lasting peace. None seems to have studied how that doctrine was reinforced after the end of the Cold War.

Trumpians hate wokery and love strong men who claim (however impiously) to be good Christians, so they are instinctively drawn to Vladimir Putin. Even if they have no corrupt connections with Putin, they think Russia is the big deal. Do that big deal with him, they imagine, and then America can divide the spoils, end the deaths and stop running up the bills.

Putin sees this coming and rejoices. His utterly unreasonable claims on Ukraine are adamantine. He perfectly understands the key weakness of Trumps position  that he is desperate for a deal. It follows that Putin can, in effect, draft most of it. He knows the White House does not interrogate the Russian version of history and scarcely understands the meaning of what it seeks to concede.

The 28-point plan, fanfared last week, accepted almost all Russias contentious points and prior assumptions  that it can keep what it has conquered and tell Nato what to do, that Ukraine can never join Nato, that Nato troops can never invigilate any settlement and that the number of Ukraines troops (but not Russias) will be capped. No Lansdowne-style security guarantees and reparations here. The 28 points infringe Ukraines rights as a sovereign nation.

The plan also accepts a longstanding Russian libel against Ukraine by declaring that All Nazi ideology and activities must be rejected and prohibited, and it repeats the Russian trope that Ukraine is not a democracy by demanding elections within 100 days.

No Ukrainian government could accept the plan  or anything like it  and survive. That is part of the plans fell purpose. It now seems likely, as revealed in our news pages today, that Witkoff and Trumps son-in-law, Jared Kushner, will unilaterally offer US recognition of Russian sovereignty over occupied Ukraine when they visit the Kremlin next week. If that happens, then Trump the naive peacenik will have scorned allies, broken all previous agreements and betrayed Ukraine.

All Ukraine can do, which it managed quite skilfully at Geneva this week, is to keep on trying to be constructive, winkle out, with allied help, the worst of the 28 points and avoid being the victim who gets blamed or accused, in Trump language, of zero gratitude.

The recent publication of a taped private conversation between Witkoff and his Russian interlocutor, Yuri Ushakov, shows just how desperate the White House is. Steve advises his friend Yuri to tell Putin, when talking to Trump, to show respect that he is man of peace. Trump will then give Steve a lot of space and discretion to get to the deal, boasts Steve. President Zelensky is coming to the White House soon, says Steve. I know that, the tape records Yuri chuckling. Your boss must call before then, Steve advises.

Russia stands to gain whether the Trump plan goes ahead or fails. Putin can go on saying it is not enough, knowing that this will induce Trump to give him yet more. He can be confident that Zelensky, now destabilised by the resignation of his right hand man Andriy Yermak, cannot accept it. Therefore Zelensky, not Putin, will be excoriated by the US government for blocking peace. Besides, he has never recognised the Ukrainian governments right to be part of negotiations.

It feels as if Donald Trump, in the name of peace, is about to try legitimise Europes biggest waging of aggressive war for over 80 years. Is Sir Keir Starmer practising his roar of defiance in front of the mirror?
Donald Trump has told military personnel he will escalate operations against alleged Venezuelan drug traffickers very soon, as tensions between the two nations continue to grow.

During a Thanksgiving phone call with Army servicemen and women, the president went further and suggested the U.S. would take action on land as well as sea.

The United States has killed more than 80 people in military strikes on the alleged drug boats, as part of Operation Southern Spear, with the actions branded imperialist by Venezuelan officials.

Donald Trump has claimed that he will escalate action against alleged Venezuelan drug smugglers very soon (AP)

In recent weeks, youve been working to deter Venezuelan drug traffickers, of which there are many, Trump said on the call. Of course, there arent too many coming in by sea anymore.

You probably noticed that people arent wanting to be delivering by sea, and well be starting to stop them by land also. The land is easier, but thats going to start very soon. We warn them: Stop sending poison to our country.

The exact measures Trump plans to use against alleged drug smugglers on land are not clear.

However, there has been a massive build-up of the United States military presence in the Caribbean in recent weeks.

The United States has killed over 80 people in strikes on alleged Venezuelan drug boats (US Secretary of Defense Pete Heg)

The U.S.S. Gerald R. Ford, the most advanced aircraft carrier in the U.S. military, arrived in the Caribbean Sea last week, with the U.S.S. Winston Churchill, a destroyer-class vessel, also conducting exercises in the area.

General Dan Caine, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and President Trumps primary military adviser, also visited Puerto Rico, heightening fears of American military action against Venezuela.

Delcy Rodriguez, the Venezuelan vice-president, has accused the military build-up of being part of an effort to seize the countrys oil and gas reserves.

For nothing, without paying. They want Venezuelas gold, she said. They want Venezuelas diamonds, iron, bauxite. They want Venezuelas natural resources.

Venezuelan President Maduro has vowed to fight any imperialist threat or aggression (AFP via Getty Images)

President Nicolas Maduro, who led a crackdown against his opponents after refusing to concede the 2024 Venezuelan election, has also vowed to fight any imperialist threat or aggression.

In a speech commemorating the 200th anniversary of the presentation of the Sword of Peru to independence fighter Simon Bolivar, he brandished the historical weapon to cheers from supporters.

We must be ready to defend every inch of this blessed land from imperialist threat or aggression, no matter where it comes from, he said. The homeland is sacred, the homeland must be respected.
Andriy Yermak, right, has never been far from Volodymyr Zelenskyys side since becoming the presidents chief of staff in 2020. Photograph: Gleb Garanich/Reuters

Volodymyr Zelenskyys powerful chief of staff and closest ally, Andriy Yermak, has resigned after Ukraines anti-corruption agencies conducted searches at his apartment earlier today.

The abrupt departure of the aide, who had been leading the latest round of the delicate peace negotiations with the US, was announced by the Ukrainian president in a late-afternoon social media video on Friday.

Zelenskyy praised Yermak, but made clear that there should be no reason to be distracted by anything other than the defence of Ukraine at a time when Kyiv was dependent on retaining US support in the face of Russian territorial demands.

Yermak had submitted his resignation, the president said. The search for a successor would begin on Saturday and the powerful office of the president of Ukraine, which Yermak led, would be reorganised as part of the process.

I am grateful to Andriy for always representing Ukraines position in the negotiation track exactly as it should be. It has always been a patriotic position. But I want there to be no rumours or speculation, Zelenskyy said.

Journalists had filmed about 10 investigators entering Kyivs government quarter early in the morning, in a widening of the investigation into a nuclear energy kickback scandal allegedly run by an associate of the Ukrainian president who has fled the country.

Nabu, the national anti-corruption bureau, said it and the specialised anti-corruption prosecutors office, Sapo, were conducting investigative actions at the head of the office of the president of Ukraine.

A seemingly indispensable aide until today, Yermak was a former intellectual property lawyer and film producer who knew Zelenskyy in his days as an actor and comedian before helping him be elected as president. Yermak became a foreign policy adviser, then the presidents chief of staff in February 2020.

Rapidly he assumed a central position as Zelenskyys gatekeeper in the charge of the presidents office. He was routinely consulted on foreign policy, domestic affairs and appointments. Never far from Zelenskyys side, the two were particularly close during the early days of the invasion, when Kyiv was under threat.

Earlier, in a short statement, Yermak confirmed that searches were continuing at his home. The investigators have no obstacles, he added in a social media statement. They were given full access to the apartment, my lawyers are on site, interacting with law enforcement officers. From my side, I have full cooperation.

The energy corruption scandal first emerged earlier in November, but after days of damaging revelations it dropped down the news agenda when Donald Trump unexpectedly released a pro-Russian 28-point peace plan, in which the Kremlin demanded control of all the Donbas region before any ceasefire.

But Fridays developments thrust the scandal back into the spotlight just as Ukraine had been carefully wooing the White House on a 19-point counterproposal, with Yermak fronting talks in Geneva with the US secretary of state, Marco Rubio.

Earlier in November, investigators from Nabu said they had uncovered a high-level criminal scheme at the heart of government. Insiders allegedly received kickbacks of 10%-15% from commercial partners of Energoatom, the state-owned nuclear power generator and Ukraines most important energy supplier.

Timur Mindich, an old friend and business partner of the Ukrainian president in the Kvartal 95 TV production company, set up by Zelenskyy before he went into politics, was accused of being the organiser. Mindich fled abroad, leaving his apartment in Kyivs government district hours before investigators came to arrest him.

Zelenskyy himself has denounced the scheme. However, questions swirled in the days that followed about how much the most senior figures in government knew about what was happening, given how many others in or close to the administration have been accused of involvement.

Related: The 28-point peace plan for Ukraine may be dead  but Trump still wont stop Putin | Dmytro Kuleba

Zelenskyy fired two ministers this month and the allegations have prompted widespread public outrage at a time when most Ukrainians are having to endure hours of daily electricity blackouts because of Russian bombing of energy infrastructure.

Another high-profile suspect is Oleksiy Chernyshov, a former deputy prime minister who was charged by Nabu for allegedly receiving $1.2bn (900m) from participants in the anti-corruption scheme. Chernyshov allegedly spent some of the illicit cash building four luxury mansions in a new-build riverside plot south of Kyiv.

The anti-corruption investigation has been based on more than 1,000 hours of conversations recorded secretly by Nabu, details of which have been released to the media. In one, a suspect said it was a pity to build structures to defend power stations from Russian attacks since the money could be stolen instead.

The European Commission said the investigations showed that Ukraines anti-corruption bodies were functioning. We understand that investigations are ongoing, and we very much respect these investigations, which show that anti-corruption authorities in Ukraine are doing their job, a spokesperson said.
Russia has released a 2026 calendar glorifying its leader Vladimir Putin.

The 12-page spread features flattering images of the 73-year-old doing a variety of activities showcasing his machismo including flipping a man in judo, walking through mountains while looking rugged, and playing the piano.

This years publication is also accompanied by a series of inspirational quotes including his advice for August, which reads: My recipe for energy: Sleep little, work a lot and dont whine.

The calendar features flattering pictures of the 73 year-old Vladimir Putin (Social media)

Putin flips a man in judo in on of the monthly images (Sputnik)

His January quote declares: Russias border never ends in a possible allusion to Ukraine, upon which Putin inflicted a deadly war nearly four years ago.

February, which shows the leader flipping a man in judo, says: I am a dove, but I have very powerful iron wings.

While there is no direct mention of the countrys invasion of Ukraine, which has reportedly led to over one million casualties since February 2022, there appear to be other potential references to the conflict.

I think Russia has become much stronger in the last two or three years because we are becoming a truly sovereign country, he has said in one.

Another picture shows Putin playing the piano (AFP/Getty)

The Russian president posing on the ski slopes (AFP/Getty)

Other pictures feature Putin astride an automobile while wearing a parka, while the rest show him lighting candles, taking telephone calls, and giving speeches.

The calendars are sold for $3.50 (2.65) and hang in government facilities and homes, as well as schools, post offices and other public buildings.

Putin became leader of Russia over 26 years ago and has since been accused of war crimes. However, his image is carefully maintained within Russia, where his health and vitality are celebrated as extensions of his powerful leadership.

This genre is its own kind of art, Maxim Trudolyubov told the New York Times. Its an empire with this ancient emperor whos been around for decades, so it is supposed to be boring; it is supposed to signal stability, predictability, even if the reality is nothing of the kind.
Wales failed to make the most of their chances as they were held to a 1-1 draw by South Korea in a friendly in Spain.

Rhian Wilkinsons side looked set to claim their first victory of the year when Sophie Ingle gave them an early lead, while they also hit the post twice, but Korea turned the tables in the second half and Kim Min-ji levelled.

Ingle won the corner that led to the opening goal in the sixth minute with a shot that was acrobatically pushed over the bar by Kim Min-jung.

The keeper got nowhere near the corner, though, as Ingle headed in Lily Woodhams delivery from under the bar.

Ingle nearly engineered a repeat a few minutes later, while Hannah Cain should have made it two but shot wide and Ingle could not apply the finishing touch when the ball was sent back in following another corner.

Wales might have conceded in the 20th minute but Ji So-yun dwelt on the ball after being played through and Gemma Evans got back to block the shot.

Most of the threat in Malaga continued to come from Wales, though, and after Mared Griffiths had hit the post with a shot across goal, Rhiannon Roberts had the ball in the net but Ingle was penalised for a foul on the keeper.

They came very close again three minutes after the break when Elise Hughes, who had come on for Cain for the second half, was played in on the left and struck her shot against the base of the near post.

But Korea improved markedly from there and Olivia Clark was called upon in the 51st minute to deny Choi Yoo-jung after sloppy play in defence.

The equaliser arrived in the 68th minute, with Jang Sel-gis deep cross finding an unmarked Kim, who headed beyond Clark, while Korea might have scored a quick second but Shin Na-yeongs shot was deflected behind.
Volodymyr Zelensky with his former chief of staff Andriy Yermak, right, considered by many to be Kyivs de facto vice-president - Maxym Marusenko/NurPhoto

Andriy Yermak could hardly have been closer to the Ukrainian president.

At night, they slept just feet apart in the bunker underneath the presidential palace. In the morning, they would work out side-by-side.

And during the day, the 54-year-old chief of staff would rarely leave the side of Volodymyr Zelensky, towering over him just to the left or right in any number of photographs from diplomatic conferences or set-piece events.

No longer. On Friday evening, Mr Yermak resigned  or perhaps, was asked to resign  amid intense pressure over his ties to the $100m (75m) corruption scandal roiling Ukrainian politics. Then he said he would be going to the front line.

He was not named as a suspect in the scheme siphoning off funds intended to construct air defences and protect Ukraines power supplies.

But opposition MPs claimed his name appeared in the investigation and, on Friday morning, anti-corruption investigators raided the office of the former film producer.

Andriy Yermak resigned hours after his home was raided by anti-corruption investigators - Ukrainska Pravda/Getty/AFP

Is he guilty? He denies any wrongdoing. But many supporters of the president will breathe a sigh of relief that he has acted to impose some distance between himself and the unelected official who, through his ties to Mr Zelensky, had amassed a staggering level of political power.

Critics accused the green cardinal of acting as the presidents bouncer and personal enforcer, as well as foreign minister, defence minister and interior minister rolled into one.

Long before the scandal broke, just 17.5 per cent of Ukrainians trusted Mr Yermak, according to a poll by the Razumkov Centre think tank, which put the presidents rating at 60 per cent.

They were not school friends, like most of Mr Zelenskys inner circle when he rose to power.

Instead, the president met Mr Yermak through the world of television, where he was a star and the latter a lawyer.

He does what I tell him

Last year, Mr Zelensky summed up the growth of their relationship simply. He told Bloomberg: I respect him for his results, he does what I tell him.

Over the course of the war, that could include almost anything: drafting peace plans, conducting diplomatic back-channels, striking deals to free Ukrainian soldiers or return abducted children.

Such was his power, he also interfered in the conduct of the war itself, according to a deeply-reported profile in the Financial Times.

Earlier this year, crowds gathered outside the presidential palace, chanting Sack Yermak.

He was rumoured to be behind the aborted attempt to neuter the anti-corruption agencies closing in on Mr Zelenskys inner circle.

True or not, the all-powerful aide had by then accrued legions of political enemies, who accused him of fostering the authoritarian, suspicious bent of the presidency  running black ops against perceived enemies, or outright dismissing them from their posts.

He knew everything that happened in Ukraine, the maxim ran, and the question therefore followed: how could he not have known about the pilfering of vast amounts of state money meant to stop citizens freezing to death or being blown up in drone attacks?

Jarsolava Barbieri, a research fellow at the Chatham House think tank, said the timing of Mr Yermaks departure was crucial.

Last weekend, the chief of staff went to Geneva for talks with the US over a 28-point peace plan seen in Kyiv as a capitulation to Russias wishes.

The Trump administration has long fixated on Ukraines problems with corruption.

Supporters argued that they should prevent the distribution of multibillion-dollar aid packages.

Andriy Yermak met the US delegation in Geneva to discuss a peace plan aimed at ending the war with Russia - Martial Trezzini/EPA/Shutterstock

Ms Barbieri said: The corruption scandal was becoming so toxic for Zelenskys image and that political vulnerability was really, really dangerous given the renewed negotiations on terms favourable to Moscow.

In the end, the presidents survival instincts kicked in. His desire to be seen as someone that puts loyalty to the national interest [won out] over loyalty to his closest allies, she added.

European allies may have lobbied Mr Zelensky to cast aside Yermak, but there had already been mis-steps in terms of managing White House relations.

It was the chief of staff who counselled Mr Zelensky to seek out the disastrous Oval Office meeting with Mr Trump, and he who suggested handing the US president the set of images of starving prisoners of war which sent the meeting south, according to the FT.

Both Republicans and Democrats were tired of Mr Yermaks abrasive, hortatory style, with one insider describing him as a bipartisan irritator.

Trump officials advised Mr Zelensky to sack him after that White House meeting  partly because he needed an English translator  to no avail.

The axe has finally swung. Ukrainian civil society will hope for a period of political renewal, as the president emerges from the shadow of his suspicious, power-hoarding aide.

For his part, Mr Zelensky will miss his political shock absorber, a 6ft 2in behemoth of a man who soaked up a great deal of the scorn flung at his administration.

But he will be able, crucially, to maintain his moral pleas for Western support, without inviting awkward questions about where it ends up.

The dismissal of his fixer was, in the end, the only fix possible.
Men at risk of prostate cancer, including black men and those with a family history of the disease, are set to miss out on a screening programme that could catch it early.

A draft ruling by the UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC) concludes that the harms outweigh the benefits, even though these groups face a higher risk of prostate cancer.

This is despite research suggesting that such a programme could prevent 1,500 deaths a year. The decision has led to a backlash from charities, MPs, celebrities and scientists, who have warned that tens of thousands of men will suffer needlessly as a result.

The Telegraph is campaigning for targeted screening for those most at risk, including black men and those with particular genes or a family history of the disease.

Lord Cameron, who has been treated for prostate cancer, and Sir Chris Hoy, who is terminally ill after it spread to his bones, have called for a wider rollout of testing. Rishi Sunak, the former prime minister, also supports the move.

PSA tests can save lives but also lead to over-treatment - iStockphoto

Prostate is the most common type of cancer in men, with around 63,000 diagnosed and 12,000 dying from it annually. It is the only major cancer without a screening programme.

The committee recommended that men with mutations in the BRCA gene should be screened, but, with so few men knowing if they have it, its unclear how many would benefit.

Here are the committees decisions and the data that led to them.

Screening all men from 50: rejected

Testing all men over 50 for prostate cancer may well do more harm than good and could only be considered once prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests become more accurate, the committee said.

The Telegraph is campaigning for targeted screening for those most at risk, as opposed to a population-based programme.

UK NSC modelling suggests that, for every 1,000 men aged 50 to 60 who were screened for prostate cancer, two lives would be saved. However, the committee found that there would also be 20 men who were over-diagnosed.

This means they would be told they have cancer but that the disease would never have caused them harm in their lifetime  leading to anxiety and potential unnecessary treatment.

There would be 12 men who were over-treated, meaning they would have the likes of surgery, radiotherapy or hormone therapy for a cancer that would not have caused harm. This group could be left managing side effects such as incontinence, erectile dysfunction and bladder problems.

Prof Freddie Hamdy CBE is Nuffield Professor of surgery and professor of urology at the University of Oxford, and honorary consultant urological surgeon at the Oxford Radcliffe Hospitals.

He said: The diagnosis of prostate cancer in a healthy man is a hugely disruptive event. It starts with a blood test and then its a snowball, and before you know it you are on an operating table, having your prostate removed.

However, others say the decision about whether to have treatment should be one for an individual man to take, not the state on his behalf.

Screening for black men: rejected

Screening black men for prostate cancer has been rejected by the UK NSC.

This newspaper has called for black men to be included in a screening programme because they have a one in four chance of developing the disease, compared to a one in eight risk for white men.

The committee said it simply did not have enough data on black men to assess risk versus benefit. The UK NSC admitted its recommendation was based on research that included a very low number of black men. One study it based its advice on involved more than 200,000 men but only 89 were black.

Ben Lamb, a consultant urological and robotic surgeon at Barts Health and UCLH NHS Trusts, said: Its hard to accept a decision that claims to be evidence based, when we know that the evidence does not fully represent the interests of black men.

Maintaining the status quo risks entrenching the disadvantages faced by black men and those in more deprived groups and regions.

However, the committee concluded that annual checks for black men aged 55 to 60 would have an over-diagnosis rate of 44 per cent.

It noted that there was a lower risk of over-diagnosis if black men were screened every four years between the ages of 50 and 62. Over 15 years, 571 prostate cancers would be detected and seven to 11 lives would be saved.

Prof Hamdy said: The studies which have looked at the actual characteristics of prostate cancer in black men are missing in the UK. It is a big knowledge gap that we have.

The committee hopes the 42m Transform trial, which aims to recruit 300,000 men to test different prostate cancer screening strategies and report findings within three years, will gather more evidence, as a tenth of those invited to take part will be black.

Screening for men with a family history: rejected

The committee considered screening men for prostate cancer if they had a family history of prostate, breast or ovarian cancer in first-degree relatives (parents, siblings and children).

This is a huge section of the population and would encompass one in three men.

Prof Derek Rosario, a consultant urological surgeon and honorary professor at Sheffield Hallam University and clinical advisor (prostate) to the UK NSC, admitted: Its entirely feasible that any associations are watered down because its such a broad definition of family history.

He said in the US there is a stricter definition of men who are at risk of prostate cancer because of family history. For example, the American Cancer Society says men are at high risk if their father or brother was diagnosed with prostate cancer when younger than 65.

The broader family history screening approach considered by the committee was found to have a similar risk of over-diagnosis and over-treatment to screening the whole population  around half of prostate cancer cases detected would be classed as over-diagnosis.

Screening for men with a BRCA gene: recommended

Screening men with variants of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes every two years, from the age of 45 to 61, is the approach most likely to do more good than harm, according to the committee.

Three in 1,000 men have the genes and have a one in three chance of developing aggressive prostate cancer, often at a younger age than the average patient.

Across the UK, this would mean about 20,000 men aged 45 to 61 could be eligible, but the committee said it thought just a few thousand fell into this group.

However, the majority of men with the genetic variant do not know they have it. Scientists have also pointed out that ending screening at 61 for men with BRCA variants would miss half of prostate cancers in men with the genes.

Any man who is concerned they may carry the genes should contact their GP to establish whether they are eligible for checks every two years, the committee said.

The committee has now launched a three-month public consultation on its recommendations. It will then issue its final recommendations next year, at which point it will be up to the UKs health secretaries to decide what form of screening to implement.

Prof Sir Mike Richards, chair of the UK NSC, said: The consultation is a genuine consultation. If new evidence is presented to us, we will take that into account. If people think we have got things not quite right [...] we will reconsider it in March when the consultation is closed.

Prostate Cancer Research is one of four charities supported by this years Telegraph Christmas Charity Appeal. The others are Motor Neurone Disease Association, Canine Partners and The Not Forgotten. To make a donation, please visit telegraph.co.uk/appeal2025 or call 0151 317 5247
Suzy Levian partners with Macy's to launch exclusive collections and limited-time savings. Post this

"We're incredibly excited about this new Suzy Levian New York collection," said a Macy's insider. "It delivers a level of artistry and innovation we haven't seen before."

This debut also introduces Suzy Levian's groundbreaking patented Firework Cut , featured for the first time at Macy's. The innovative cutting method doubles the total facets of each stone, creating a "Firework Effect" that delivers unmatched sparkle and brilliance from every angle. These exclusive Firework-Cut designs, whether showcased in a dramatic cocktail ring or a shimmering pendant necklace , are available only from Suzy Levian New York at Macy's.

Macy's is further expanding its Suzy Levian New York offerings with a lineup of brand-new collections, including:

The Helix Collection  modern, sculptural elegance featuring twisting silhouettes in rich gold.

The Aurora Collection  softly luminous pieces, highlighting glowing pearl accents and delicate diamond details.

The Enchanted Lace Collection  delicate pave with timeless femininity, offering romantic earrings, rings, and necklaces perfect for gifting.

The Lumina Collection  bold geometry with contemporary sophistication, blending polished gold and silver structures with radiant stones.

These collections have already caught the attention of many celebrities and red-carpet stylists, drawn to Suzy Levian's signature blend of luxury, empowerment, and accessibility- whether selecting standout diamond earrings, a fashion-forward ring, or a classic pearl necklace.

"It's an honor to partner with Macy's as we introduce these new collections," said Suzy Levian. " Their reach as one of the largest jewelry retailers allows my designs to be enjoyed by millions."

With exclusive designs, unbeatable Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals, and holiday-ready styles you can't find anywhere else, Macy's is the ultimate destination to shop Suzy Levian this season - where every piece, from engagement rings to evening jewelry, tells a story of inner beauty and modern femininity.

To shop exclusive Suzy Levian New York deals at Macy's, please visit: https://www.macys.com/shop/featured/suzy-levian-new-york

Media Contact: Brittany Zerub, Suzy Levian, New York, [email protected]

About Suzy Levian New York:

Suzy Levian New York is a renowned name in luxury jewelry, from a 500-year legacy of master jewelers. As the first woman in her family to establish her own business, Suzy Levian has redefined the fine jewelry landscape through her passion for design and dedication to empowering women.

Born into a family of jewelers, Suzy's exceptional talent for design emerged early, sketching pieces for her father. This innate creativity and love for design led her to create her own award-winning brand.

With a blend of courage, perseverance, and innovation, Suzy Levian has crafted a legacy that honors her family's rich traditions while forging a modern path. Every piece in her collection reflects the strength, beauty, and individuality of the women who wear it. Central to Suzy's design philosophy is The Secret Diamond  a hidden stone embedded in each piece, symbolizing the inner strength and empowerment of every woman. Just as a diamond sparkles with brilliance, Suzy Levian encourages women to embrace their unique beauty and shine from within.

Today, Suzy Levian New York is celebrated for its luxurious, timeless designs, available at prestigious retailers and department stores nationwide. The brand continues to inspire women through its collection of jewelry and home decor, with a focus on creativity, innovation, and elegance. Suzy Levian's mission is to honor the femininity and inner beauty of women, empowering them to embrace their radiant selves.

SOURCE SUZY LEVIAN NEW YORK
John Garthwaite was professor of experimental neuroscience at University College London from 1996 to 2014 Photograph: none

My friend and former colleague John Garthwaite, who has died aged 76, was a neuroscientist who helped to transform our understanding of how brain cells communicate with each other.

In the 1980s, while working at Liverpool University, John overturned the previous belief that cells communicate only at direct contact points (synapses) by showing that the brain also uses nitric oxide gas as a chemical messenger.

He showed that activation of the NMDA receptor  a master switch for learning and memory  triggers nitric oxide production. This gas then diffuses freely, influencing blood vessels and networks of brain cells  a phenomenon now known as volume transmission.

This foundational work, which earned John several awards, now lays the groundwork for discovering new medicines that target nitric oxide signalling.

John was born in Scarborough, North Yorkshire, to Peter, a silviculturist, and his wife, Betty (nee Gorman), a homemaker. He was educated at Wellington college in Berkshire and then at the University of Surrey, where he earned a degree in medical biochemistry. He later completed his PhD at the University of London (School of Pharmacy) in 1977.

Afterwards John worked as a researcher at the Medical Research Councils Developmental Neurobiology Unit within the University of London, before moving to the University of Liverpool as a lecturer in 1980, first at the department of veterinary physiology and pharmacology, then at the department of physiology, where he rose through the ranks to become professor of physiology.

In 1992 John was invited to become head of neuroscience research at the Wellcome Research laboratories in Beckenham, Kent, and in 1996, following closure of the labs, he moved to University College London, where his leadership was pivotal in establishing the Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research. He remained there as professor of experimental neuroscience until his retirement in 2014, after which he was awarded an emeritus position.

Beyond his research career, John was a dedicated educator and generous mentor, known for his meticulous approach and dry wit. In his spare time he was an avid outdoorsman and environmental advocate, and enjoyed carpentry.

John met his wife, Giti (nee Yamini), in London. She was an Iranian postdoctoral fellow at the London School of Pharmacy at the time. They married in 1978. From 1983 until their retirements, they worked together and moved in tandem with their careers. He is survived by Giti and their daughter, Nina.
Mike Alexander decided as a 13-year-old that he wanted to be warden of Skomer Island in Pembrokeshire  and eventually landed the job in his late 20s Photograph: provided by friend

My friend and former colleague Mike Alexander, who has died aged 77, made a huge contribution to nature conservation in Wales and beyond.

After a decade as a warden on Skomer Island off the Pembrokeshire coast, Mike joined the Nature Conservancy Council (NCC) in 1986 as warden for the South Meirionnydd reserves in north Wales. Frustrated by what he saw as the lack of rigour in nature reserve management, he was pivotal in developing a computerised system for managing the special features of reserves, at a time when computers were viewed with suspicion by colleagues in the field.

Working with an NCC co-worker, James Perrins, he developed the Countryside Management computer system, now widely used by conservation organisations globally. He also went on to assume overall responsibility for all the national nature reserves in Wales. His book, Management Planning for Nature Conservation: A Theoretical Basis & Practical Guide (2008), is a standard text on the subject.

Mike was born in Neath, south Wales, to Rhys, a civil engineer, and Mary (nee Parsons), a secretary, but grew up in various places around mid and south Wales, moving several times due to his fathers job. When he was 13 at Gwendraeth Valley grammar school in Carmarthenshire, a teacher, planning a private visit one weekend to Skomer, asked if anyone would like to join. Mike, fascinated by the prospect of a boat journey, went along, and the day changed his life. He decided instantly that one day he would be warden of the island.

He left home at 16 to become a crew member on the ferry to Skomer, also volunteering on the island as an assistant to the main warden. The following year, in 1966, he became assistant warden on the neighbouring island of Skokholm, then, in 1967, warden of the Calf of Man bird observatory off the Isle of Man.

Briefly leaving the UK in 1968 to become warden of the Long Point bird observatory in Ontario, Canada, he returned a year later as a field assistant in the oil pollution research unit at Orielton Field Centre in Pembrokeshire, studying the effects of oil on vegetation.

In 1973 he enrolled full-time at Dyfed College of Art, studying fine art sculpture, before returning to conservation in 1976 with his dream job as warden on Skomer, which was where I met him. When the Skomer post was advertised, it included the condition that the warden must be married, and at the interview Mike was told he could start in 10 days time provided he had tied the knot by then. He and his girlfriend, Rosanne Daniel, whom he had met at art college, underwent the formalities in haste and crossed over to the island straight afterwards.

In addition to his work with NCC, Mike spent 16 years (2005-21) as chair of Pori Natur a Threftdaeth, a charity designed to build bridges between nature conservation advocates and farmers. After retirement at 72, he chaired the Wildlife Trust for South and West Wales from 2021 until 2024.

A background in art and nature merged in Mikes skill as a photographer. His pictures graced many publications, including his book Skomer Island: Its History and Natural History (2021). He was also a producer of exquisite wood carvings.

He is survived by Rosanne and his siblings, Jeff, Anne and Tina.
The arrests of the teenagers led to days of race-related anti-immigration rioting in Ballymena, Northern Ireland - PAUL FAITH

Romanian teenagers who were accused of attempting to rape a schoolgirl in Co Antrim are to have charges withdrawn, the Public Prosecution Service has said.

The boys had been charged in connection with an alleged serious sexual assault on a teenage girl in the Clonavon Terrace area of the Co Antrim town in June.

The incident prompted days of race-related anti-immigration rioting in Ballymena, with linked sporadic outbreaks of violence in other parts of Northern Ireland.

The PPS said there had been significant evidential developments in the case.

The boys are aged 14 and 15 and have been in custody since they first appeared in court in June, when they addressed the court through a Romanian interpreter.

A third youth who was suspected of involvement in the alleged attack is believed to have fled to Romania the following day.

It is understood that proceedings against the third suspect will also be discontinued.

Representatives from the prosecution and police investigation teams have held meetings with the complainant and her family to explain the reasons for the decision, Belfast Youth Court was told.

RTE reports that the two defendants were not in court during the brief hearing.

Granting the withdrawal of the charges, District Judge George Conner said: Im aware this is a very sensitive case, but the matters are now marked withdrawn. The less I say about it, the better.

A PPS spokesperson said: The PPS has a duty to keep prosecution decisions under consideration and take into account any change in circumstances that occurs as the case proceeds.

Where new information or evidence becomes available, it will be considered along with all the existing information and evidence in the case and the test for prosecution will be applied.

We have recently been made aware of significant evidential developments in this case.

Test for prosecution no longer met

They added: In light of this new evidence, it has been determined that the test for prosecution is no longer met on evidential grounds, and therefore, the case should not proceed.

The prosecution team and the police investigation team met with the complainant and her family this morning to explain the reasons for the decision.

All charges faced by both defendants were formally withdrawn at Laganside Youth Court on Friday.

The PPS added: All PPS decisions in this case were taken independently, impartially and in line with the code for prosecutors.

Due to the importance of respecting the privacy, anonymity, and well-being of all the young people involved, including the complainant, the PPS will not be making any further comment.

We would appeal to the public not to engage in speculation, including online, about the case.

Significant public interest

Det Ch Insp Stephanie Finlay, from the Police Service of Northern Irelands public protection branch, said: Any reported sexual crime is taken extremely seriously and thoroughly investigated by our specially trained team of detectives.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland will follow up on all lines of inquiry as we seek to ensure justice.

Information gathered during an investigation will be submitted to the Public Prosecution Service, who then make an independent decision in accordance with evidential tests.

We continue to encourage those who have been victims of sexual crimes to come forward and report to us. You will be dealt with sensitively and will be offered the appropriate additional support.

We will listen, treat you with respect and act to keep you and others safe.

We are aware that this case has generated significant public interest. I would remind everyone to remain respectful in light of todays decision, and refrain from speculation, particularly on social media.

Simmering tensions with Roma community

The alleged sexual assault in June lit the touchpaper on simmering tensions with the Roma community, resulting in marauding riots which echoed the disorder following the Southport murders.

The unrest began in Clonavon Terrace, where homes were torched and cars set alight, before some rioters started to move door to door in search of foreigners.

Non-Roma immigrants resorted to putting up signs saying Filipino lives here for those from the south-east Asian country, or coronation memorabilia and crockery featuring the late Queen Elizabeth II, in an effort to deter rioters.

Police were pelted with petrol bombs, bricks and fireworks, returning fire with water cannons.

Ballymena was 95.1 per cent white at the time of the latest census, with 4.9 per cent of the population from another ethnic background.

The Roma, which represents the largest minority, have been accused by some of failing to integrate.
Samantha Kane wanted 162,000 in compensation after the NHS refused a third gender reassignment - Peter Jolly

A transgender laird has dropped legal action against the NHS after it refused to carry out a third sex-change surgery.

Samantha Kane, who was born male, is thought to be the only person in Britain to have changed their gender three times.

The laird, who is now self-styled as Lady Carbisdale after buying a 5m Scottish castle, had surgery in 1997 to become Samantha, before having it reversed and taking on the identity of Charles Kane in 2004.

Kane sued University College London Hospital (UCLH) NHS Foundation Trust, alleging that doctors had refused a request for a third surgery to revert to a woman in 2017.

This led to Kane having a private procedure in Serbia in 2018, which was allegedly botched.

Kane alleged that the NHS then refused treatment again after the Serbian procedure allegedly resulted in infected surgical devices being left inside the lairds body. UCLH medics finally agreed to help in 2021, Kane said.

A legal claim lodged by the trained engineer, barrister and business tycoon said the refusal to provide treatment amounted to negligence, discrimination and a breach of human rights.

Kane wanted 162,000 in compensation but told the High Court last year the claim was more about achieving justice than money. A full trial was scheduled for next year.

Samantha Kane told the High Court the claim was about achieving justice rather than money - Peter Jolly

But the 65-year-old has now withdrawn the claim after receiving assurances on improvements made by the trust.

I am delighted to announce that there are no further proceedings against UCLH NHS trust. I stated that the matter raised was about patients safety and nothing else. I am satisfied that my views were taken into consideration and I have highlighted an important area, Kane said.

I am pleased that UCLH were awarded 3m in funding from NIHR Central London Patients Safety for research on patient safety and I have written to them to contribute to the research.

My action was always about patient safety  nothing else. I am satisfied that my concerns have now been addressed.

I am also pleased to announce my offer of bringing Scottish gifts from Carbisdale Castle to patients having treatment at the University College London Hospital, and Chelsea and Westminster Hospital over Christmas and Christmas Day.

In 2000, Kane, then known as Sam Hashimi, spearheaded a Saudi attempt to buy Sheffield United.

Carbisdale Castle was bought by Kane in 2022 and valued at 5m two years later - Lumir Pecold/iStock

In 2022, Kane bought Carbisdale Castle, a 19-bedroom clifftop castle near Ardgay in Sutherland. In 2024, the property was valued at 5 million.

Kane recently offered the castle to the former Prince Andrew as a retreat, claiming he had suffered unfair accusations and judged purely by the court of public opinion.

The laird is also embroiled in legal action against Ardgay and District community council and has won a judicial review over the decision to dissolve the former council.

UCLH NHS trust was approached for comment.
Traveling with your pet in a business-class cabin might sound like a dream, but its entirely possible for pet owners who cant bear to part with their furry friends. Many airlines offer pet-friendly policies for their premium cabins, though each comes with specific rules. Heres a guide to the airlines that allow pets in their business-class cabins and what you need to know before booking.

Aeromexico

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Aeromexico sets clear boundaries for pet travel in the cabin, allowing small pets under 20 pounds (carrier included) to accompany their owners. The catch, however, is that space is limited, so booking early is important. Carriers must also fit snugly under the seat, and your pet will need to stay there for the entire flight.

Air Canada

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

If youre heading to or from Canada, Air Canada is a reliable option for pet owners. Small pets, up to 22 pounds with the carrier, can travel in the cabin, provided their carrier meets the airlines strict guidelines. This includes enough room for the pet to turn around and lie down comfortably. Always double-check restrictions, as not all routes accommodate pets in the cabin.

Asiana Airlines

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Asiana Airlines welcomes pets weighing up to 15 pounds and is a good choice for travelers flying within Asia or connecting internationally. They require a well-ventilated carrier that meets specific dimensions. Travelers should also be prepared with documentation like vaccination records, as these are often necessary for international travel.

Austrian Airlines

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Austrian Airlines keeps things simple and allows pets up to 17 pounds in the cabin. Their straightforward policies mean youll know exactly what to expect, with clear instructions on carrier dimensions and travel documents. Whether you're flying to Vienna or using the airline as a gateway to Europe, your pet will be in good hands.

Brussels Airlines

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Flying with pets can be stressful, but Brussels Airlines aims to ease the process by permitting small pets in the cabin. With a maximum weight of 17 pounds, your furry companion must stay in a carrier under the seat. The airline also recommends confirming the pet policy when booking, especially for longer flights.

Iberia

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Spains flagship carrier, Iberia, offers a pet-friendly policy for those traveling with small pets. Pets under 17 pounds, including the carrier, can accompany their owners in the cabin. Iberia is known for its efficient handling of pet travel, but its essential to comply with any additional regulations for international destinations.

ITA Airways

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

As Italys main airline, ITA Airways doesnt disappoint when it comes to pet travel. Pets up to 22 pounds are welcome in the cabin, provided theyre in a suitable carrier. For international flights, travelers should ensure all health certificates and vaccination records are in order.

Korean Air

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Korean Air understands the importance of keeping pets close, particularly for long-haul flights. They allow pets weighing up to 15 pounds to travel in the cabin, as long as theyre in a carrier that fits comfortably under the seat.

La Compagnie

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

La Compagnies boutique, all-business-class flights are a standout for pet owners. With one of the most generous weight limits33 poundsthis French airline allows larger small pets in the cabin. The carrier must still fit under the seat, and passengers are advised to secure health documentation well in advance.

LOT Polish Airlines

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Polands LOT Polish Airlines keeps things efficient and organized when it comes to traveling with pets. They allow small pets under 17 pounds in the cabin, provided theyre in an airline-approved carrier. Their policies are particularly useful for travelers connecting through Poland to other international destinations.

Lufthansa

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Lufthansas reputation for precision extends to its pet travel policies. They permit small pets weighing up to 17 pounds to accompany their owners in the cabin. The carrier must meet the airlines specifications for size and ventilation. Lufthansa also emphasizes the importance of advance booking, especially on popular international routes.

Royal Air Maroc

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

For those flying to or from Morocco, Royal Air Maroc offers a straightforward pet travel policy. Pets up to 17 pounds can join you in the cabin as long as they remain in a suitable carrier under the seat. The airline also provides detailed information on any additional requirements for international travel to ensure a hassle-free experience.

Swiss International Air Lines

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Swiss Airlines offers a polished, reliable option for travelers flying with pets. Pets up to 17 pounds, including the carrier, are welcome in the cabin. Their customer service team is known for helping travelers navigate international pet regulations, which means Swiss is the perfect choice for journeys through Europe.

Turkish Airlines

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Turkish Airlines is a fantastic choice for pet owners traveling across Europe, Asia, or beyond. Their pet travel policy allows small pets up to 17 pounds in the cabin. Turkish Airlines also provides guidance on ensuring your pets comfort during the flight, such as acclimating them to the carrier well in advance.

Alaska Airlines

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

For domestic flights in the United States, Alaska Airlines provides a pet-friendly option with clear, no-nonsense policies. Pets traveling in the cabin must stay in a carrier that fits under the seat. While theyre known for their excellent service on short-haul flights, international travelers should confirm specific requirements before booking.

Air France

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Air France permits small dogs and cats to travel in the cabin if the combined weight of the pet and its soft carrier does not exceed 17.6 pounds. The carrier must fit entirely under the seat in front of the passenger, and reservations are required. Policies vary by aircraft and route.

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

KLM allows small pets to travel in the cabin on select routes, including Business Class on flights within Europe, as long as the pet and its carrier together weigh no more than 17.6 pounds. A soft carrier that fits under the seat is required, and travelers must reserve pet spaces in advance.
Food & Wine / Getty Images

Key Points

Anthony Bourdain's favorite sandwich recipe has been popular online for years, and it's a simple, comforting dish that everyone should know how to make.

The recipe was first published in his 2016 cookbook, Appetites, and it calls for only five ingredients.

Bourdain's version of the sandwich is inspired by a similar dish at Bar do Mane in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

During this time of year, I usually find myself doing one of two things in the kitchen: Im either preparing an elaborate dish that takes time and effort  likely for Thanksgiving or a dinner party with friends  or Im cooking the simplest thing possible to feed myself.

Amidst the holiday chaos, I refuse to do meal prep that calls for 15 ingredients or bake a pot pie just for my weeknight dinner. Instead, I turn to options like my favorite bagged salads or quick premade meals.

I also crave comforting bites when its cold out, and anything that requires minimal effort while delivering decadent results is a win in my book. Thats exactly why Im whipping up the same five-minute dish every week during winter: Anthony Bourdains favorite sandwich.

The late chefs ultimate sandwich was first introduced in his 2016 cookbook, Appetites. Its far from new, and other dedicated Bourdain fans may already be familiar with it. However, this is the kind of perfectly simple, genius sandwich that deserves another round of applause every few years. If you dont already know how to make it, I think its essential that every home cook keep this recipe in their back pocket.

How do you make Anthony Bourdains favorite sandwich?

This sandwich requires just five ingredients and five minutes of your time. Youll need thinly sliced mortadella (an Italian cured meat made of pork, often flecked with pistachios), provolone, a roll (Bourdain suggests using either a sourdough or Kaiser roll), your mustard of choice, and mayonnaise.

Start by heating a small pan over medium heat. Once the skillet is hot, add a little neutral oil, like avocado or canola. Place the mortadella into the pan in three small piles. Youre looking to use around five to six slices of mortadella, and they should be clustered into little mounds of two or three slices each.

Let the piles of mortadella sit until the edges are crisp and the bottoms turn golden brown. (The small heaps of deli meat help the edges to get crispy while the interior remains soft and tender.) Flip the stacks of mortadella and place a slice of cheese on each. Once the other side has browned as well, remove the meat from the pan and stack the piles on a plate.

Related: Jacques Pepins Effortless 2-Ingredient Cocktail Channels French Simplicity

Now its time to toast the buns, and youre almost finished with the sandwich. Slice the roll in half, then place the cut sides down on the pan used to cook the mortadella. (Optionally, spread a little mayo on each half of the bun before toasting to help them turn golden brown.) Let them toast until theyve taken on some color, then turn off the heat.

Spread mayo on one half of the roll and mustard on the other. Then, assemble everything with the melty cheese and piles of mortadella sandwiched between the pieces of bread. Youre all set to dine like Anthony Bourdain, without needing to hop on a plane.

Where does this sandwich come from?

Of course, this delicacy draws on Bourdains travels. His simple recipe is inspired by the signature sandwich at Bar do Mane in Sao Paulo, Brazil. This casual eatery is known for its sandwich starring roughly a half-pound of crispy, pan-fried mortadella and slices of melty, yellow cheese, all inside a soft Portuguese bun.

Related: Anthony Bourdain Once Said This Restaurant in Paris Was a Must-Visit, Second Only to the Eiffel Tower

While the cheese on Bar do Manes sandwich is usually described simply as yellow cheese, it looks strikingly similar to American cheese. If youre making this dish at home, feel free to swap Bourdains choice of provolone for any other cheese that melts easily, such as American cheese or fontina. You can even use piles of bologna instead of mortadella if you prefer.

As long as you have a sky-high sandwich made with crispy, savory meat thats been thinly sliced and stacked with melted cheese, youre close enough to perfection.



Read the original article on Food & Wine
Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak talks to the press at the U.S. Mission to International Organizations in Geneva, Switzerland, Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025. (Martial Trezzini/Keystone via AP)

KYIV, Ukraine (AP)  Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced Friday the resignation of his powerful chief of staff, Andrii Yermak, who was also the country's lead negotiator in talks with the U.S, after Yermak's residence was searched by anti-corruption investigators.

The unprecedented search at the heart of Ukraines government was a blow for the Ukrainian leader that risked disrupting his negotiating strategy at a time when Kyiv is under intense U.S. pressure to sign a peace deal nearly four years after Russia's full-scale invasion.

Yermak has long been a trusted confidant of Zelenskyy, who has resisted persistent pressure to replace him.

In a nod to the controversy over Yermaks long stay at his side, Zelenskyy said Russia was waiting for Ukraine to make missteps and upset the delicate and tense peace negotiations.

We dont have a right to retreat or argue between ourselves. If we lose unity, we risk losing everything  ourselves, Ukraine, our future, Zelenskyy said. We must unite, we must hold on. We have no other choice. We wont have another Ukraine.

To preserve our internal strength, there must be no reasons to be distracted at anything else except for defense of Ukraine," he added. "I dont want anybody to be questioning Ukraine, and thats why we have todays decisions.

In his nightly address, Zelenskyy announced that he was resetting the presidential office. He said Yermak had submitted his resignation and that he would begin consultations Saturday to appoint a new chief of staff.

Yermaks name did not appear on a list of officials that Zelenskyy said would make up the Ukrainian delegation for the next round of negotiations with the United States.

The delegation will now be jointly lead by Andrii Hnatov, the head of Ukraines armed forces; Andrii Sybiha, Ukraines foreign minister; and Rustem Umerov, head of Ukraines security council, Zelenskyy said. He said negotiations would happen soon.

Two national agencies fighting corruption in Ukraine said their search targeted Yermak. Oleksii Tkachuk, a spokesperson for Yermak, said the anti-graft agencies had not served Yermak a notice of suspicion, meaning he was not a suspect in an investigation. Yermak was not told what the searches related to, Tkachuk said.

Yermak confirmed the search of his apartment inside the presidential compound in downtown Kyiv, where checkpoints limit public access. Media reports said Yermak's office was also searched, but investigators declined to comment on that.

It was not clear where Zelenskyy or Yermak were at the time of the morning raid.

The investigators are facing no obstacles, Yermak wrote on the messaging app Telegram. He said he was cooperating fully with them and that his lawyers were present.

In an interview Thursday with The Atlantic, Yermak said that as long as Zelensky is president, no one should count on us giving up territory. He will not sign away territory.

Ukraine, he said, is prepared to discuss only the question of what land each side controls, as indicated by the location of the front lines.

All we can realistically talk about right now is really to define the line of contact, Yermak said.

Energy sector scandal

The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office are leading a major investigation into a $100 million energy sector scandal involving top Ukrainian officials that has dominated domestic headlines in recent weeks.

It was not clear if the searches were connected to the case, and a spokesperson for the NABU, Anton Tatarnikov, declined to comment, citing legal restrictions on revealing details on an ongoing probe.

The head of Ukraines parliamentary anti-corruption committee, Anastasiia Radina, said on social media that Yermaks resignation was better late than never.

Mykyta Porturaev, a lawmaker with Zelenskyys party who last week called for Yermaks resignation and for a cross-party government to be established, said the anti-corruption raid deepened Ukraines political crisis.

Yermak definitely had political responsibility, Porturaev told The Associated Press. Of course he had to go.

A spokesperson for the European Commission, Guillaume Mercier, told Ukrainian news outlet Radio Svoboda on Friday that they were following developments closely and that the searches showed that Ukraine's anti-corruption agencies were working. He said fighting corruption was central to the country's European Union accession.

Investigators suspect that Tymur Mindich, a one-time business partner of Zelenskyy, was the plots mastermind. Mindich has fled the country, with any criminal proceedings against him likely to be carried out in absentia. Two top government ministers have resigned in the scandal.

Two of Yermaks former deputies  Oleh Tatarov and Rostyslav Shurma  left the government in 2024 after watchdogs investigated them for financial wrongdoing. A third deputy, Andrii Smyrnov, was investigated for bribes and other wrongdoing but still works for Yermak.

Political turmoil for Zelenskyy

The scandal has heaped more problems on Zelenskyy as he seeks continued Western support for Ukraines war effort and tries to ensure continued foreign funding. The European Union, which Ukraine wants to join, has told Zelenskyy he must crack down on graft.

Zelenskyy faced an unprecedented rebellion from his own lawmakers earlier this month after investigators published details of their energy sector investigation.

Although Yermak was not accused of any wrongdoing, several senior lawmakers in Zelenskyys party said Yermak should take responsibility for the debacle in order to restore public trust. Some said that if Zelenskyy didnt fire him, the party could split, threatening the presidents parliamentary majority. But Zelenskyy defied them.

Zelenskyy urged Ukrainians to unite and stop the political games in light of the U.S. pressure to reach a settlement with Russia.

Yermak met Zelenskyy over 15 years ago when he was a lawyer venturing into the TV production business and Zelenskyy was a famous Ukrainian comedian and actor.

He oversaw foreign affairs as part of Zelenskyys first presidential team and was promoted to chief of staff in February 2020.

Yermak has accompanied Zelenskyy on every trip abroad since Russias invasion in February 2022, and the presidents trust in him has made Yermaks power appear almost untouchable.

Domestically, officials describe Yermak as Zelenskyys gatekeeper, and he is widely believed to have chosen all top government appointees, including prime ministers and ministers.

___

Follow APs coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine
A wooden judges gavel with a brass band rests on a dark surface. Photo: Alan Wooten / The Center Square

(The Center Square) - An Arizona man is one step closer to building his hotel in downtown Prescott after years of being denied city permits for what's being called vague reasons.

Jim Griset, who owns buildings in the Arizona city of about 46,000 people, has been trying to build his boutique hotel on his property. But the city has been denying him the right to do so.

Since 2023, Griset has attempted to turn the three buildings he owns - a Harley Davidson shop, an art gallery and a souvenir store - into a hotel.

Goldwater Institute attorney Jon Riches, who represents Griset, told The Center Square that Griset needed to obtain a permit from the Prescott Historical Preservation Commission before he could build a hotel.

The commission kept denying Grisets permit without any clear objective criteria or guidelines," Riches said. Instead, the attorney said, the permit was denied on subjective determinations.

After Griset got his first permit application denied by the commission, he appealed it to the Prescott City Council, but it upheld the commissions ruling, said the Goldwater Institute, a Phoenix-based conservative litigation and public policy research organization.

The permit denial from the city council was vague and subjective, Riches noted.

And as Griset redesigned his hotel to meet the standards sought by Prescott, those standards kept changing, according to the Goldwater Institute.

Griset told The Center Square that it was very disheartening when the city repeatedly denied his permit applications.

He added that this ordeal has been going on for years, saying he has spent a considerable amount of money on the project.

One of the key reasons the city kept denying the permits for Grisets hotel was due to the influence of people who believe in the "Not In My Backyard" philosophy. They're known as NIMBYs, people who oppose certain types of changes in their neighborhood.

In Grisets case, the NIMBYs were particularly egregious during the city council and commission hearing, Riches said.

Numerous people testified at the hearings that they didnt want the hotel there, and they didnt want the building to change, Riches noted.

Riches called the pushback against Grisets hotel a troubling display of people not wanting anything to change, regardless of what Arizona law says or Grisets private property rights.

The people who showed up in opposition to his hotel project only represented a small portion of the citys population, Griset said.

The attorney added that he thinks the commission didnt like the project and did not want it where Grisets property is located.

To put this into perspective, while Griset was seeking approval for his hotel design, the city approved another hotel for construction in the same area, Riches said.

Earlier this month, after two years of battling Prescott on his hotel project, the city council overturned the commissions decision and approved Grisets hotel project.

Griset told The Center Square that it was a huge hurdle for the city to overturn the commissions denial of his hotel project.

One of the main arguments Riches used in helping Griset get his hotel design approved was the states Permitted Freedom Act.

Riches said this law says that if a government is going to act on a permit, it must be based on clear and objective criteria. Gov. Katie Hobbs signed the act into law in 2023.

The Permitted Freedom Act changed the legal landscape for property owners pretty substantially, according to the attorney.

After the city council overturned the commissions decision, Riches said, It was gratifying to see the Prescott City Council finally respect Jims property rights and respect Arizona law that says you cant base these denials on these sorts of vague, unsubstantiated claims.

The government has to have real objective standards that are measurable, he noted.

Griset has both a moral and legal right to use his property in any lawful way, the attorney said.

Riches said he thinks Grisets case is a good lesson for city governments across Arizona. He added that if cities arbitrarily impair private property rights, then theyre gonna be held accountable under Arizona law.

Griset is almost done getting his hotel approved for the build. He told The Center Square that he has to get a use permit approved by the citys zoning and planning commission and then by the city council.

He said he was unsure about how the city council would rule on his use permit because it will be adding four new members.

On top of this, Griset added that he will need the hotels water service agreement approved by the city as well.
ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations officers and a federal agent detain a person at a home in Phoenix, Ariz. Photo: Tia Dufour / U.S. Department of Homeland Security / Public Domain

(The Center Square)  Assaults against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers are up 1,153% in 11 months, according to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

As ICE officers continue to arrest the most violent criminals nationwide, U.S. citizens have increasingly obstructed their efforts, including physically attacking them and threatening to kill them, according to multiple reports nationwide. The most recent death-threat-related arrests were of a Virginia high school assistant principal and his brother.

Earlier this month, DHS and the Virginia Beach Police Department launched an investigation into brothers John Wilson Bennett and Mark Booth Bennett, after an off-duty Norfolk Virginia Police Department officer overheard them discussing plans to kill police officers and ICE agents, DHS said.

The brothers are U.S. citizens and Virginia residents.

The officer claims he overheard Mark Bennett tell his brother that he was planning to meet with likeminded individuals in Las Vegas to purchase firearms with explosive rounds to carry out the attacks, DHS said.

He was arrested at the Norfolk International Airport, where he was booked on a flight and scheduled to depart to Las Vegas, DHS said. His brother, John Bennett, was arrested in Virginia Beach on the same day. John Bennett is the assistant principal of Kempsville High School in Virginia Beach. He is still employed by the school; his photo and contact information are still on the school website. He is reportedly on leave, according to local news reports.

Both were charged with a state crime of one count of conspiracy to commit malicious wounding.

Its chilling that a human being, much less a child educator, would plot to ambush and kill ICE law enforcement officers  offering such specifics as to getting a high caliber rifle that would pierce the law enforcements bullet proof vests. Thanks to Homeland Security Investigations and our partners, these men are behind bars, DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said.

They werent behind bars for long and were released on a $25,000 bond, with GPS monitoring. They claimed they were joking around and the Las Vegas trip was preplanned to attend an F1 race, WAVY 10 News reported. Their next hearing is scheduled for Jan. 23.

Law enforcement took the claims seriously, as assaults against ICE officers up now by 1,153% in just 11 months.

From Jan. 21 through Nov. 21, 2025, 238 assaults were reported against ICE officers, up from 19 reported during the same time-period last year, DHS said.

Thats an increase of 1,153%.

At the same time, the number of death threats made against ICE officers have increased by 8,000%, The Center Square reported.

ICE and U.S. Custom and Border Protection and Border Patrol officers have also experienced a surge of targeted vehicular attacks. Vehicular attacks against CBP and Border Patrol agents are up 58%; attacks against ICE officers are up by 1,300%, The Center Square reported.

DHS blames Democrats for increased violence and threats of violence.

After months of Democrat politicians comparing ICE to Nazis, the gestapo, slave patrols, and even encouraging illegal aliens to resist arrest, our brave ICE law enforcement have been assaulted 238 times, McLaughlin said. Our law enforcement officers have had Molotov cocktails and rocks thrown at them, been shot at, had cars used as weapons against them, and been physically assaulted. Sanctuary politicians need to tone the rhetoric down before a law enforcement officer is killed. They should be thanking these brave law enforcement officers who risk their lives every single day to arrest pedophiles, rapists, murderers, gang members, and terrorists from our neighborhoods.

Examples of assaults include hitting, spitting, kicking, biting, attempted strangulation, drive by shootings and cartel bounties, The Center Square reported.

Despite these threats, ICE officers are prioritizing arresting violent criminals, including those with removal orders from federal immigration judges. The overwhelming majority being arrested, 70%, have criminal convictions or pending charges, ICE says. The 70% figure excludes those wanted for violent crimes in other countries, including those with INTERPOL notices and human rights violators, among others, ICE says.

ICE is encouraging Americans to report suspicious criminal activity, threats against ICE officers and their family members, as well as doxxing, by calling 866-DHS-2-ICE or submitting a tip online.
Stefanie Pieper/Facebook Stefanie Pieper

NEED TO KNOW

Beauty influencer Stefanie Pieper, 31, has been missing since she returned home from a Christmas party on Sunday, Nov. 23

Her ex-boyfriend, 31, has since been arrested in connection with her disappearance

Local authorities said on Wednesday, Nov. 26, that the 31-year-old woman remains missing

Multiple people have been arrested following the disappearance of a makeup artist and beauty influencer in Austria.

On Sunday, Nov. 23, Stefanie Pieper, 31, from the city of Graz in the southeast of the country, went missing after returning home from a Christmas party, according to the Styrian State Police.

While Pieper was reported to have gotten out of a taxi with a friend after arriving at her apartment on Sunday morning, family members alerted the police when she didnt show up to a scheduled photoshoot.

Piepers dog was also located alone in her apartment, while her phone had been turned off, according to local outlet Kurier.

The Styrian State Police confirmed in a release on Wednesday that a 31-yearold woman was missing after not showing up for work and could not be reached.

Stefanie Pieper/Instagram Stefanie Pieper

They then added that her ex-boyfriend, 31, had been arrested in connection with her disappearance.

The man is believed to have traveled to Slovenia several times in his car. He could not be contacted by the investigating police, they wrote.

Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases.

On Monday evening, November 24, 2025, the Slovenian police reported that a car had caught fire in the parking lot of a casino near the border," the release added. "This was the 31-year-old man's car. He was found in the immediate vicinity of the burning vehicle and arrested by the Slovenian police. Extradition to Austria has been requested.

Police said that the 31-year-old woman remains missing.

Further investigations by officers of the Styrian State Criminal Police Office are ongoing, they added.



While Pieper had reportedly sent a message on WhatsApp to a friend stating that she had arrived home safely, she then took her dog for a walk and sent another message that revealed she believed someone was in her stairwell, according to local outlets Oe24 and 20 Minuten.

Kleine Zeitung added that neighbors then heard arguing and saw her ex-boyfriend.

Stefanie Pieper/Instagram Stefanie Pieper

The Styrian State Police revealed in an update on Thursday that two family members of her ex-boyfriend had also been arrested in Austria.

The detainees are in police custody and are being questioned, authorities wrote in a release. Forensic examination of the ex-boyfriend's car yielded no clues as to the missing woman's whereabouts.

They added, Investigations are being conducted in both Slovenia and Austria, and there is close cooperation between the two authorities. Search operations carried out in Slovenia have so far been unsuccessful; these will continue tomorrow.

Rumors are circulating in various media outlets and online platforms that the missing woman has been found in Slovenia. Several media inquiries refer to this rumor, they concluded. The Styrian police cannot confirm this rumor.

PEOPLE has contacted the Styrian State Police for further comment.



Read the original article on People
XI'AN, China, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- On World AIDS Day 2025, Tianlong reiterates its commitment to advancing global transfusion safety by presenting its fully integrated nucleic acid blood screening solution. Combining high automation with high-sensitivity NAT reagents, the solution enables earlier detection of low-viral-load infectionsan essential step in reducing transfusion-transmitted HIV and safeguarding patients who rely on safe blood.

Strengthening Blood Safety Through Earlier Detection

Ensuring blood safety remains one of the most effective defenses against transfusion-transmitted infections. By enhancing screening accuracy and enabling laboratories to detect HBV, HCV, HIV-1, and HIV-2 during early infection stages, Tianlong supports global public health efforts and reinforces trust in every unit of donated blood.

A Fully Automated Workflow for Blood Screening Application

At the core of Tianlong's solution is the Aurora PANA X6 Fully Automated Nucleic Acid Extraction System, developed for blood centers and large-scale screening programs.

When paired with the Gentier 96 Real-time PCR System, the platform enables a true sample-in, result-out process, integrating: original tube loading, barcode identification, automated capping/decapping, direct sample pooling, nucleic acid extraction, PCR setup, PCR amplification. This end-to-end automation reduces manual steps, lowers contamination risk, and enhances operational safety.

High Throughput for High-Volume Blood Screening Demands

Aurora PANA X6 processes up to 576 samples per run and 1,152 samples per day, providing the capacity required for high-volume screening. The ability to load original sample tubes with automated capping/decapping ensures consistent, contamination-controlled operations.

Direct Pooling and Flexible Screening Modes

The system conducts direct pooling into deep-well plateseliminating the need for extra collection tubesand supports individual testing and 6-in-1 pooled testing, allowing laboratories to balance efficiency and sensitivity.

To ensure reliable performance, the platform features independent work zones, HEPA filtration, UV disinfection, controlled airflow, and anti-drip design, delivering robust biosafety in demanding laboratory environments.

High-Sensitivity NAT Reagents to Detect Low-Load Infections

KHB's high-sensitivity NAT reagent complements Tianlong's automated platform, using qualitative real-time PCR in an all-in-one format that integrates extraction and amplification.

The reagent system is engineered to detect HBV, HCV, HIV-1, and HIV-2 even at low viral loads, enabling laboratories to identify window-period infections, reduce the risk of transfusion-transmitted diseases and improve overall blood supply safety.

On World AIDS Day, this early-window detection capability highlights a shared commitment to protecting every life connected to blood donation and transfusion.

Committed to Safer Transfusions  Today and Every Day

"On World AIDS Day, we are reminded that every safe transfusion represents a promise of protection for another human life," said Li Ming, CEO of Tianlong. "Our mission is to equip laboratories with solutions that enhance accuracy, strengthen biosafety, and support the global effort to prevent HIV transmission."

About Tianlong

Tianlong Science and Technology, founded in 1997, is a pioneer in the field of genetic testing and molecular diagnostics. Together with our group company Shanghai Kehua Bio-engineering Co., Ltd. (KHB), we have established five core technology platforms  immunodiagnostics, biochemistry, molecular diagnostics, POCT, and mass spectrometry, specializing in the research, development, and manufacturing of instruments and in vitro diagnostic (IVD) reagents  offering comprehensive solutions across a wide range of sectors, including clinical diagnostics, blood centers, disease control, veterinary epidemic prevention, and food safety.

For more information, please visit Tianlong's official website and its LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter pages.

https://www.medtl.net/

linkedin.com/company/tianlongbiotech/

https://www.facebook.com/TianlongGlobal/

https://x.com/TianlongGlobal

SOURCE Tianlong Science and Technology
A council in the Republic of Ireland is seeking information following the "callous" beheading of a stag.

Fingal County Council has issued an appeal for information after the headless body of the stag, that was part of a herd at Newbridge Demesne, Donabate in County Dublin, was found by staff on Thursday.

The stag's head was removed from the grounds and staff say they have no doubt it was taken as a trophy, Irish broadcaster RTE is reporting.

Gardai (Irish police) confirmed they are investigating a reported incident of wildlife crime.

"It had been killed overnight [on Wednesday] by intruders who had broken into the park. The discovery was made when staff went to feed the herd of Irish Red Deer," Fingal County Council said in a statement.

The stag, who was eight years old, was one of two in the herd.

The killing of the stag is also under investigation by the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

'He was a big favourite with the public'

The Mayor of Fingal, councillor Tom O'Leary, condemned the killing.

He said: "I have visited this park area with my granddaughters who really enjoyed meeting the stag and deer. A wonderful animal to behold close up.

"It's truly shocking that someone would carry out this act," he said.

"I am appealing to anybody with information to contact the gardai or the National Parks and Wildlife Service. It is illegal to kill deer without a licence and I hope that the perpetrators can be brought to justice."

Ivan Smith, foreman of Works at Newbridge House and Traditional Farm, said the team was "absolutely shocked" by the incident.

"He was a lovely stag with a beautiful pair of antlers and was a big favourite with the public who walk through the park."

'Unnecessary killing'

Ireland's National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA) have expressed "horror" at the attack.

"The unnecessary killing of such a majestic creature for, what appears to be, a trophy is appalling," Pat Watt of the NSPCA said.

"It is the NSPCA's hopes that the perpetrator/s will be caught and prosecuted with the full force of the legal system relating to this type of crime. Animal abuse is not acceptable in any situations."

'Disgusted and appalled'

Councillor for the area Eoghan Dockrell told BBC News NI that he was "in shock".

"The one common response to anyone I've spoken to in the community is they're disgusted and appalled," he said.

He added that he has "an awful lot of sympathy for the staff members who would have had to come upon that scene and how distressing that must have been".

"I have been in touch with council officials to see if they'd review security procedures in the park and while a lot of patrols are being carried out during the day, we're going to see if we can increase patrols at night time," he said.

Anyone who has any information should report it to National Parks and Wildlife Service, Fingal County Council or their local Garda Station.

Gardai (Irish police) also said they wish to speak with anyone who has footage, including dashcam, from between 00:00 and 02:30 local time on Thursday on the R126 road, Cobbe's Lane and Turvey Avenue, around Newbridge Demense, to make it available.
British Airways announced a deal with Starlink in November. Courtesy of British Airways

Korean Air is the latest airline to sign up for Elon Musk's Starlink WiFi.

22 other carriers have also announced deals for the ultra-high-speed internet.

It's already available on some airlines  here's the full list.

Elon Musk's Starlink has gained yet another airline customer as the ultra-high-speed WiFi service continues to gain popularity.

Korean Air announced in early December that it's installing Starlink and expects it to enter service between July and September next year, becoming the 23rd airline in total to do so.

Business Insider previously tested Starlink on Qatar Airways' first flight with it last October. The connection speed peaked at 215 megabits per second, more than enough for a lag-free video call, and faster than many cable-based internet services.

Starlink functions thanks to a constellation of over 7,000 satellites, which allows internet connections in remote locations, such as flying over an ocean. The satellites are in low-earth orbit, which means faster internet speeds  but also disrupts astronomers.

Starlink isn't the only game in town, however.

JetBlue has signed up for Amazon Leo, which functions similarly, but has only launched 150 satellites so far.

Another in-flight WiFi rival is Viasat, which is used by Delta Air Lines and American Airlines. It only has a handful of satellites in a geostationary orbit, which have a longer time delay.

While it has rivals, Starlink wants to cement its dominance. As Starlink grows in popularity, it could be that more carriers sign up to Starlink to keep up with competitors. All airlines with Starlink offer it free of charge, although some require passengers to sign up for their loyalty programs.

As of the Korean announcement, here are all the airlines that have publicly announced plans to launch Starlink:

Aer Lingus

An Aer Lingus Airbus A330. Nicolas Economou/NurPhoto/Getty

The Irish flag carrier is part of International Airlines Group, which announced its Starlink deal in early November. It's set to roll out Starlink from early 2026, but plans are still being finalized across the conglomerate.

Air Baltic

An Air Baltic Airbus A220. Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Latvia's airBaltic flies around Europe and the Middle East only using Airbus A220 jets. It was the first European airline to adopt Starlink, and hopes to complete installation on all its planes by the end of the year.

Air Busan

An Air Busan Airbus A321. Fabrizio Gandolfo/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

Air Busan is a budget carrier and a subsidiary of Korean Air, which announced in December that it's adding Starlink.

While the legacy carrier has clearer plans for its wide-body jets, Korean said Air Busan will review which planes to prioritize.

"Rollout schedules will vary by carrier, with the earliest service introduction expected as early as the third quarter of 2026," it added.

Air France

An Air France Boeing 777. AaronP/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images

The French flag carrier announced its Starlink deal last September, available to Flying Blue loyalty members. Installation began across its fleet, including regional planes, this summer.

Air New Zealand

An Air New Zealand flight arrives at Sydney Airport in Sydney, Australia. Bai Xuefei/Xinhua via Getty Images

Air New Zealand first said it was working with Starlink two years ago. It then rolled it out on two domestic aircraft in June, saying that it was "currently in the test phase."

Air Seoul

An Air Seoul Airbus A321. Fabrizio Gandolfo/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

Air Seoul is a budget carrier and another subsidiary of Korean Air. Like with Air Busan, it is not yet clear which jets will get Starlink.

Alaska Airlines

An Alaska Airlines Embraer E175. Kevin Carter/Getty Images

After merging with Hawaiian Airlines  the first major carrier to offer Starlink  Alaska Airlines announced its deal in August. It says it will first be available next year and will be rolled out across the fleet by 2027.

Asiana Airlines

Asiana Airlines is merging with Korean Air. AaronP/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images

Asiana Airlines is another subsidiary of Korean Air.

The two airlines merged in 2024, while the Asiana brand is set to be phased out by the end of next year.

"Following the integration with Asiana Airlines, the airline plans to complete fleetwide installation by the end of 2027," Korean said in its Starlink announcement.

It also said it will prioritize installation on its Boeing 777 and Airbus A350 jets.

British Airways

A British Airways Boeing 787. Kevin Carter/Getty Images

The UK flag carrier is also part of IAG. BA said it would start rolling out Starlink next year and that it would be available free of charge to all its passengers.

Emirates

An Emirates Airbus A380. Nicolas Economou/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Dubai's airline is starting to roll out Starlink this month and plans to add it to all 232 in-service aircraft by mid-2027. It's also set to operate the first double-decker Airbus A380 with the service.

FlyDubai

A FlyDubai Boeing 737. Fabrizio Gandolfo/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

The Emirati budget airline also announced its Starlink deal during this month's Dubai Airshow. It only operates Boeing 737s and plans to install Starlink on 100 of them from next year.

Iberia

Mitsubishi CRJ-200ER for Iberia Air Nostrum. adolf martinez soler/Shutterstock

The Spanish flag carrier is also part of IAG. The conglomerate said it would roll out Starlink across its fleets from 2026.

Jin Air

A Jin Air Boeing 737. Fabrizio Gandolfo/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

Budget airline Jin Air, another subsidiary of Korean Air, will also get Starlink on its planes.

It will first install the high-speed WiFi on its Boeing 737-8 jets, the announcement said.

JSX

A JSX plane. AaronP/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images

JSX is a charter air carrier and was the first carrier to equip Starlink back in 2023. Its fleet is mostly made up of regional Embraer jets.

Korean Air

A Korean Air Boeing 777. Joan Valls/Urbanandsport/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Korean Air announced in December that it's adding Starlink, with service starting as early as the third quarter of 2026.

It said it will prioritize installation on its Boeing 777 and Airbus A350 jets, aiming for Starlink to be across the fleet by the end of 2027.

Level

A Level Airlines plane at Barcelona Airport. Joan Valls/Urbanandsport/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Level is a budget airline based in Barcelona and is part of IAG. The airline's parent company said it would roll out Starlink from 2026.

Qatar Airways

A Qatar Airways Boeing 777 at Athens International Airport. Nicolas Economou/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Qatar Airways outpaced its regional rival, Emirates, by announcing Starlink back in May 2024. As of November, it operates the most wide-body aircraft with the service, numbering over 100. Starlink is installed on all Qatar's Boeing 777s and is being rolled out to its Airbus A350s.

SAS

Mark Harkin/Flickr

Scandinavian Airlines, or SAS, is the flag carrier for Sweden, Denmark, and Norway. It announced Starlink in January and said the rollout would begin at the end of the year. Passengers would need to sign up for its EuroBonus loyalty program for free access.

United Airlines

United Airlines planes at Newark on Saturday. Gary Hershorn/Getty Images

United Airlines was the second US airline to announce a Starlink deal, but the first of the Big Three. It has installed the service on over half of its regional planes, and is continuing to roll it out across its whole fleet. The airline says customers will get a notification before their flight if it is equipped with Starlink. Passengers need to sign up for its MileagePlus loyalty program for free access.

Virgin Atlantic

A Virgin Atlantic Airbus A350. NurPhoto/NurPhoto/Getty Images

Virgin Atlantic was the first UK airline to announce its deal with Starlink, which it did in July. Installation is planned to start in the second half of next year. Passengers will need to sign up for the airline's Flying Club loyalty program to use it.

Vueling

Flickr/Eric Salard

Another IAG subsidiary, Vueling is a Spanish budget airline. Its parent company said it would roll out Starlink from 2026.

WestJet

Flickr/Lord of the Wings

Canada's WestJet started installing Starlink in February, and it's now equipped on over 100 of its Boeing 737 jets. It plans for all its 737-800 and 737 Max 8s to have Starlink by the end of the year. Free access requires signing up for its loyalty program.

Zipair

ZipAir Boeing 787-8 takes off from Tokyo Narita International Airport. Kittikun Yoksap/Shutterstock

Zipair is a Japanese budget airline and a subsidiary of Japan Airlines. It was an early adopter of Starlink, announcing its deal in early 2023, but doesn't appear to have yet launched the service.

Read the original article on Business Insider
With Stranger Things season 5 quickly taking over social media since its release, Linda Hamilton, who plays Dr Kay in the Netflix series, has spoken out about defying Hollywoods rigid beauty standards.

In recent years, cosmetic procedures have become common among actors, but the Terminator star recently explained why she refuses to follow the industrys ever-changing ideals.

This is how 95% of other actresses would also look like if they aged naturally, wrote one admiring fan online.

Linda Hamilton, who plays Dr Kay in Stranger Things season 5, recently opened up in a new interview about her stance on beauty standards and cosmetic procedures

Image credits: Getty/Monica Schipper

The beloved 80s and 90s icon, best known for her role as Sarah Connor alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger, has now gracefully embraced her age at 69.

In an interview with AARPs Movies for Grownups, published on Wednesday, November 26, the actress primarily discussed her unexpected role as Dr. Kay in Stranger Things season 5.

Image credits: Netflix

Unlike her usual heroine roles, Hamilton takes on the part of a villain this time, a government agent hunting down Millie Bobby Browns iconic character.

This new role marks Linda Hamiltons second major project of 2025, following a six-year break from Hollywood.

Image credits: IMDb/Terminator: Dark Fate

She made her return earlier this year with the sci-fi action film Osiris, which premiered just a few months before the Netflix hit.

However, the conversation soon shifted to her views on aging naturally.

The 69-year-old star made her big-screen return in 2025 after a six-year hiatus, having last appeared in 2019s Terminator: Dark Fate

Image credits: Netflix

She shared that she has surrendered to aging and chooses to own her age.

The interviewer asked, Youve said you want to own your age. What does that mean to you?

To this, Linda replied without hesitation, I do not spend a moment trying to look younger on any level, ever. I have just completely surrendered to the fact that this is the face that Ive earned.

And it tells me so much. And sometimes its stuff I dont want to hear. I dont chase beauty, and I dont chase longevity particularly.

She emphasized that while she doesnt prioritize youthfulness, maintaining a balanced approach to her health still matters, though she isnt strict about it.

Hamilton told the outlet, Sometimes it is just a jelly donut. Im not rigid, which is a fantastic way to get older. Ive always said that rigidifying is what ki**s us: the rigid thoughts and the sort of not moving.

I love it when actresses age gracefully, echoed fans and supporters of Linda, celebrating her choice to embrace her natural self

Image credits: IMDb/Terminator 2: Judgment Day

Ive tried very hard in my life to stay as fluid as possible. One definition of happiness is being in the middle of a fast-moving river and not trying to swim to the left or the right side.

Hamiltons candid reflections on aging struck a chord online, with many praising her as a true icon for her honesty and refusal to conform to Hollywoods beauty pressures.

Image credits: Getty/Variety

One fan wrote, Hooray for some honesty and natural aging. It isnt so bad is it. I refuse to give in to modern opinion that we should look younger. Linda you are still beautiful.

Another user commented, Wise woman.there are many other hollywood and celebrity types who have fallen into the trap of trying to look like they are 30 forever.

Image credits: Getty/Steve Granitz / Instagram/Kris Jenner

A third chimed in, This is the most refreshing post Ive seen in years. Its about time we start embracing ourselves in every stage of life.

Some even compared Lindas natural aging to Kris Jenners recent transformation, noting how the two are nearly the same age but have taken drastically different approaches to beauty.

Lindas honest take on aging naturally also sparked comparisons to several Hollywood figures, including Kardashian-Jenner matriarch Kris Jenner

Image credits: IMDb/Terminator 2: Judgment Day

Shes more wrinkled than many at that age but ok, it is what it is. Imagine what Kris Jenner would look like without all the work shes had done. I admire her for having the sense of self and character to age naturally.

Kris, 70, recently underwent a dramatic facelift performed by New York plastic surgeon Dr. Steven Levine, a transformation that drew widespread criticism and stunned the internet.

Image credits: Getty/Han Myung-Gu

Many say she now bears a striking resemblance to her 30-year-old daughter, Kendall Jenner.

The Dantes Peak star ended the conversation on a heartfelt note, revealing that her biggest motivation to avoid cosmetic procedures has always been her 32-year-old daughter, Josephine, whom she shares with ex-husband James Cameron.

Image credits: Trimark Pictures/Everett Collection

She recalled how, as a child, Josephine once called her mother beautiful because her face is filled with joy.

Ive used that as my definition of beauty ever since, Linda shared. And I work on the joy.

Society unfortunately puts a lot of pressure on women especially in the Movie Business. I appreciate & applaud her decision, wrote one fan
Pope Leo XIV and the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I, left, lead an Ecumenical prayer service near the archaeological excavations of the ancient Basilica of Saint Neophytos, in Iznik, Turkey, Friday, Nov. 28, 2025. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Pope Leo XIV marked a high point of his his first foreign trip to Turkey with a pilgrimage to the site where early Christian church leaders met 1,700 years ago under the auspices of the Roman Emperor Constantine to host the Council of Nicaea.

Leo on Friday prayed for Christian unity with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, spiritual leader of the worlds Orthodox Christians, at the site of the A.D. 325 gathering, now the town of Iznik.

The unprecedented gathering of at least 250 bishops from around the Roman Empire during the first council established the first version of the Nicene Creed, a statement of faith that millions of Christians still recite each Sunday. Eastern and Western churches were united until the Great Schism of 1054, a divide precipitated largely by disagreements over the primacy of the pope.

The American pope has emphasized a message of peace and a plea to help end wars in Ukraine and Gaza during his trip to Turkey and Lebanon, which lasts through Tuesday. On Thursday, he met in the capital Ankara with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and encouraged Turkey to be a source of stability and dialogue in a world riven by conflict.

Leo then traveled to Istanbul to carry not only his message of unity among Christians at Iznik, located southeast of the city, but also to reinforce the churchs relations with Muslims.

Leo also is due to visit the Blue Mosque and preside over an interfaith meeting in Istanbul.

Here's the latest:

Leo returns to Istanbul after praying at the site of a key Christian gathering

The prayer service to commemorate the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea has ended, and Pope Leo XIV is heading back to Istanbul.

The brief service took place in Iznik, at the site of the A.D. 325 gathering of bishops that produced the Nicaean Creed, a profession of faith that is recited by millions of Christians today.

Leos participation in the service, hosted by Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I, had been the main reason for his trip to Turkey.

The American pope has one more event on his busy schedule Friday, a private gathering with bishops back in Istanbul.

Leo tells Christians to overcome the scandal of divisions and reunite

Pope Leo XIV is urging Christians to overcome the scandal of their divisions and reunite as he marked an important anniversary in the history of the Christian faith with Orthodox and other leaders.

Leo traveled to Iznik to commemorate the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea. The unprecedented gathering of bishops led to a creed, or profession of faith, that is still recited by millions of Christians today.

Speaking on the shores of Lake Iznik over the ruins of what was the site of the council, Leo said the creed is of fundamental importance in the journey that Christians are making towards full communion.

In this way, we are all invited to overcome the scandal of the divisions that unfortunately still exist and to nurture the desire for unity for which the Lord Jesus prayed and gave his life, he said.

He said all Christians must strongly reject the use of religion to justify war, violence or any form of fundamentalism or fanaticism. Instead, the paths to follow are those of fraternal encounter, dialogue and cooperation, he said.

Leo joins Orthodox leaders to pray that Christians may again unite

Pope Leo XIV joined Orthodox patriarchs on Friday in commemorating an important moment in Christian history, gathering at the site in Turkey of an unprecedented A.D. 325 meeting of bishops to pray that Christians might once again be united.

Leo, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I and other Christian leaders met on the shores of Lake Iznik, the site of the Council of Nicaea that produced a creed, or statement of faith, that is still recited by millions of Christians today.

Leo flew by helicopter to Iznik from Istanbul to take part in an ecumenical prayer to commemorate the 1,700th anniversary of the Nicaea meeting, the highlight of his visit to Turkey. He arrived just after the Muslim call to prayer rang out from a nearby mosque.

Pope Leo on the way to Iznik to commemorate a key moment in Christianity

Pope Leo XIV is on his way to commemorate an important moment in Christianity, heading to the site of a A.D. 325 gathering of bishops that produced a creed, or statement of faith, that is still recited by millions of people today.

Leo was flying by helicopter to Iznik, about 130 kilometers (80 miles) from Istanbul, to commemorate the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea. He is being joined by the spiritual leader of the worlds Orthodox Christians and other Christian patriarchs.

In Iznik, the Christian leaders will light candles and pray at the lakeside archaeological excavations of the ancient Basilica of Saint Neophytos in a service featuring alternating Catholic and Orthodox hymns.

The significance of the Nicaean Creed

Pope Leo XIV, the spiritual leader of the worlds Orthodox Christians and other Christian leaders are commemorating an important moment in the history of their shared faith that produced the Nicaean Creed, a statement of faith that is recited by millions of Christians today.

Roman Emperor Constantine had convened the gathering of at least 250 bishops from around the Roman Empire in 325, after he had consolidated control following years of civil war and political intrigues.

The council produced a creed, the original more abbreviated form of which was written in Greek. Over the centuries, it has been amended, changes that Leo referred to earlier Friday as a natural development of doctrine that didnt alter the core profession of faith.

The version cited today by Catholics begins: I believe in one God, the Father almighty 

While there are still theological disputes, the creed is the most universally accepted faith statement in Christianity, a rare point of unity among Catholics, Orthodox and many Protestant churches.

In the runup to the anniversary, Leo penned a special apostolic letter emphasizing the creeds place as the common heritage of Christians, written at a time in history when the wounds inflicted by the persecutions of Christians were still fresh.

An Irish woman traveled to attend Leos visit to Istanbul nursing home

Carmen Nolan traveled to Turkey from Ireland, after receiving an invitation to attend Pope Leo XIVs visit to the Little Sisters of the Poor Nursing Home in Istanbul.

The 55-year-old said she would have loved to have met the late Pope Francis but feels honored to meet Leo instead. She says she sees him as a promising leader for the Church.

I think hes watching and waiting and seeing whats going on, she said. Hes slowly but surely showing us hes going to be a fantastic pope.

Leo visited the nursing home earlier Friday. The home said: He was so simple. We just felt he was at home. He felt very much at ease. Everybody got what they expected: a blessing, a kind word. Its just enormous.

Nolan added: He is strengthening our faith. He has given us courage to continue on and to really be a family together, to give the example of peace and unity and respect for the old people, for the aged.

Iznik is also known for its pottery

Since the 16th century, Iznik has been renowned for its pottery, particularly the colorful tiles produced by artisans within the towns ancient walls. Such tiles give Istanbuls Sultan Ahmet Mosque, which Leo is due to visit Saturday, its alternative moniker, the Blue Mosque.

For the pope, in other words, for the Christian world, Iznik is an important center, Iznik potter Mesude Kunen said. For his visit I am preparing a 3D plaque of Iznik that I sketched myself.

The town of 45,000, which lies 90 kilometers (56 miles) southeast of Istanbul, has seen a boom in interest from visitors since the popes visit became known.

We are truly excited, realtor Samet Yakut said. There has already been a tremendous acceleration in real estate sales in Iznik since before his arrival. We believe this acceleration is definitely due to his visit.

For Leo and Bartholomew, however, the town also has a history less compatible with Catholic-Orthodox unity  the Byzantine Empires Orthodox rulers fled to Nicaea after Catholic crusaders brutally sacked and occupied Constantinople in the first half of the 13th century.

Iznik bears a central role in the history of Christianity

Iznik, the town at the center of Leos visit to Turkey, bears a central role in the history of Christianity as the place when the Council of Nicaea was held in A.D. 325.

The council resulted in the Nicene Creed, a statement of faith recited by millions of Christians to this day. Leo and Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, spiritual leader of the worlds Orthodox Christians, will pray by the ruins of the Basilica of Saint Neophytos Friday to mark the councils anniversary.

The stone foundations of the basilica, which were recently uncovered by the receding waters of Lake Iznik, are believed to be on the site of an earlier church that hosted the council 1,700 years ago.

This is the base of the Catholic faith and I think its very important since this is the faith in God, which is the faith of Islam, French tourist Gil de Guerry said, adding that the popes visit was a great moment.

Small Islamic party stages brief protest in Iznik

Around 20 members of a small Islamic party staged a brief protest in Iznik ahead of the meeting between Pope Leo XIV and the Greek Orthodox Patriarch, marking the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea. The demonstrators argued that the event posed a threat to Turkeys sovereignty and national identity.

Under a heavy police presence, Mehmet Kaygusuz, a member of the New Welfare Party, read a statement denouncing what he said were efforts to establish a Vatican-like Greek Orthodox state in Turkey.

We will not sacrifice our nations thousandyear sovereignty over these lands to any political support or trap, Kaygusuz said. Members of the partys youth branch waved Turkish flags and party emblems.

The group dispersed peacefully shortly afterward.

Meeting pope excites and inspires cathedral visitors

Outside the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, shortly after the popes departure, people who met him Friday were exhilarated.

Leny Jugueta, 50, from the Legion of Mary at Saint Anthony Church and Missionary Families of Christ in Istanbul, met the pope once before in the Vatican while on a pilgrimage.

It was so overwhelming to meet him," Jugueta said. "We are so grateful and blessed that the pope is here.

Ferit Ozaltun, 45, an Assyrian Catholic from the southeastern Turkish city of Mardin, said the visit is a historic moment for us."

"Its a feeling I cannot describe, to have this happening in our country, he said.

Barbara Mukoki, 46, a diplomat at the Embassy of Zimbabwe in Ankara, said Leo's trip to Turkey means a lot for Christianity and for spreading the gospel."

With all the challenges the region is facing, his visit gives us hope, Mukoki said.

Spanish couple try to draw pope's attention

A couple from Spain arrived in Iznik early Friday morning and drew a large cross in the sand on the shores of Lake Iznik, hoping Pope Leo XIV would spot it from his helicopter as he flew in for the commemoration marking 1,700 years since the first Council of Nicaea.

The symbolic act was short-lived, however, as security officials removed the couple and journalists from the area.

Irati Aguirre, 26, and Thomas Libeau, 32, traveled to Iznik to witness the popes historic visit to the town where he will join Greek Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomew I for prayers.

Iznik residents differ on papal visit

Iznik resident Suleyman Bulut, 35, acknowledged his towns deep historical and spiritual significance for Christians and said he had no issue with them coming to honor their heritage.

Muslims (too) should go and visit places that belong to us in the rest of the world, in Europe, he said.

But Hasan Maral, a 41-year-old shopkeeper, said he felt uncomfortable with Leo's visit to the area Friday.

The pope coming here feels contradictory to my faith, he said.

Pope enourages Catholics in Turkey

Pope Leo XIV is encouraging Turkeys Catholics to look to the future with hope despite their tiny numbers.

There are around 33,000 Catholics in Turkey, a nation of more than 85 million people, most of whom are Sunni Muslim. Many of the Catholics are foreigners, including migrants, according to Vatican statistics.

Leo sought to bolster them in his remarks at Istanbuls Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, saying the logic of littleness is the churchs true strength.

It does not lie in her resources or structures, nor do the fruits of her mission depend on numbers, economic power or social influence," he said.

Cheers and applause greet pope at Cathedral of the Holy Spirit

Excitement filled the exterior and interior of Istanbuls Cathedral of the Holy Spirit as Pope Leo XIV arrived Friday. Worshippers applauded and cheered while the pontiff made his way down the aisle

I am so excited, to happy to see the pope. This is the first time like I can say to have this opportunity, in Turkey of course, so, no words. With all my heart I am so happy, said Debora Martina Da Silva, a political science student from Guinea Bissau who is studying in Turkey.

Elias Bogane, a 53-year-old tourist from Luxembourg, said he felt blessed to be visiting Turkey at the same time as the pope.

Its the first time I come here. For me it was something so special, Bogane said.

Mateusz Zajdecki, a 21-year-old from Szczecin, Poland, said he regarded the popes visit as a chance for unity, prayer and spiritual reflection.

I think his is very much important, even nowadays to just reflect on our faith, reflect on our spirituality, and just maybe get some results form it," Zajdecki said.

Father Giuseppe Spoto from Matera, Italy, said the Christian community in Turkey is very small and can feel insignificant, but he believes the popes presence can encourage them to keep moving forward in their faith.

Pope Leo can encourage Christianity and the small community that is here to go ahead, to walk in faith and to one day see the fruit that the lord can bring to this land, he said.

Pope will open day at cathedral and nursing home

Pope Leo XIV is to start the second day of his tour of Turkey and Lebanon meeting bishops and other church officials at the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, a 19th-century Baroque church in Istanbuls Sisli district.

He then is scheduled to visit a nearby nursing home run by the Little Sisters of the Poor, an order founded in France in the 1840s to care for poverty-stricken older people.

Leo to visit Council of Nicaea site

After his stops at the cathedral and nursing home, the pope is set to take a short helicopter ride to Iznik, a town south of Istanbul known in Roman times as Nicaea. It was here that the Council of Nicaea was held in A.D. 325 to produce the Nicene Creed, a statement of faith that millions of Christians still recite each Sunday.

Leo will pray with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, spiritual leader of the worlds Orthodox Christians, at the site of the gathering, which is today marked by the ruins of the Basilica of Saint Neophytos, built some 50 years after the council.

After returning to Istanbul, he will hold a private meeting with bishops at the Apostolic Delegation, which serves as the Vaticans consulate in the city.
The suspect in Wednesdays shooting in Washington, D.C., now faces first-degree murder charges, after U.S. Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom died from her wounds Thursday.

Rahmanullah Lakanwal, the Afghan national accused of shooting Beckstrom and U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, members of the West Virginia National Guard on deployment in the nations capital, now faces three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, two counts of assault with intent to kill while armed and one count of first-degree murder, the office of U.S. Attorney for D.C. Jeanine Pirro confirmed to The Hill.

Pirro confirmed the upgraded first-degree murder charges during an appearance on Fox News Channels Fox & Friends early Friday, adding that there are certainly many more charges to come.

Attorney General Pam Bondi told Fox News on Thursday, before Beckstrom died, that the Department of Justice will seek the death penalty against Lakanwal.

A native of Webster Springs, W.V., Beckstrom, 20, enlisted in the National Guard in June 2023 and had been on deployment since West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey (R) sent state National Guard troops to the District in August, according to a release from the West Virginia National Guard.

Webster County High School, where Beckstrom graduated from in 2023, said Thursday on Facebook she has always demonstrated the strength, character, and commitment that make our school and community proud.

Her decision to serve her country reflects the very best of what we hope to instill in our Highlander students, the school added.

Wolfe, 24, remains hospitalized in critical condition. The Martinsburg, W.V., native enlisted in the Guard in February 2019 and has also been in the nations capital since the beginning of the Joint Task Force-DC mission began in August, the West Virginia National Guard said.

Pirro told Fox News on Friday that we still have hope regarding Wolfes condition.

Lakanwal, 29, allegedly shot the two at roughly 2:15 p.m. EST near the Farragut Square Metro Station in the area of 17th and I streets Northwest, Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) Executive Assistant Chief Jeffery Carroll said at a press conference Wednesday.

National Guard members, including Beckstrom and Wolfe, were on high visibility patrol in the area. After the suspect was shot, other National Guard members apprehended him and brought him into custody.

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) said at the Wednesday press conference that the attack was targeted. Pirro said Friday that investigators are still working to determine an exact motive for the crime.

Lakanwal entered the U.S. in September 2021 through a program for Afghans who assisted the U.S. during its two-decade war in Afghanistan.

On Thursday, the Trump administration indefinitely paused migration from Afghanistan and said it would reexamine green cards given to migrants from Afghanistan and 18 other countries.

A June memo from the White House listed 19 countries of concern with entry restrictions: Afghanistan, Burundi, Chad, Cuba, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Laos, Libya, Myanmar, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Togo, Turkmenistan, Venezuela and Yemen.

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.
On Nov. 18, the European Unions Commission announced a new regulation on military mobility and joint communication that would create an EU-wide military mobility area by 2027.

The commission asserted that the regulation brings [it] one step closer toward a Military Schengen. Like the current Schengen Zone, which enables the borderless passage of people and goods, the new military version would make it faster, safer, and more coordinated to move troops and military equipment across Europe.

The commissions initiative, coupled with an emphasis on investing in drones and other technologies; an effort to transform defense industry; and an increase in member state defense spending, all reflect Europes double hedge.

On the one hand, Europeans are deeply concerned about the nature and sustainability of Americas commitment to NATO and its implications for their security. At the same time, Europe continues to worry about Moscows long-term objectives beyond its determination to conquer all or at least more of Ukraine.

The Trump administration crafted a 28-point plan with Moscow but without European or Ukrainian input, and this has reinforced both concerns. Even if the plan were soon dropped in favor of a modified 19-point version more acceptable to Kyiv and European leaders, Europeans remain worried.

The EUs plans for 2026, which may or may not not be realized in the next year obscure a more pressing concern. Far too many EU and NATO member statutes are simply not pulling their weight in supporting Ukraines resistance to the Russian invaders.

Indeed, as Swedish foreign minister Maria Malmer Stenergard warned only a day after the Commissions announcement, the fact that the Nordic countries, with less than 30 million peopleprovide for one-third of the military support that the NATO countries, with almost one billion people, provide  is not sustainable  It says a lot about what the Nordics do  but it says even more about what the others dont do.

In an email that she sent me earlier this week, Stenergard fleshed out her deep concerns about insufficient support on the part of her EU partners. This year, she wrote, Europe has surpassed the U.S. in total military avoid to Ukraine. Still, the support to Ukraine is not big enough and this increase has not been evenly distributed across Europe. In fact, the total EU support to Ukraine is 124 billion euros less than the EU Member States total imports from Russia since the full-scale invasion. This is nothing but a disgrace. Stenergard added that a good start would be to use the frozen Russian assets for Ukraines military and civilian needs.

The difficulty with implementing her proposal is that Belgium, whose Euroclear holds about three-fourths of the 260 billion frozen Euros, has thus far opposed releasing the assets or using them as collateral for a loan to Ukraine. Belgian officials worry about the legal implications of unfreezing or using the Russian assets; Russia would be certain to litigate the issue. Instead, the Belgians are seeking guarantees from other EU member states that they would share all financial risks and costs if Russia were indeed to take legal action. However, some EU members, Hungary for instance, are reluctant to support unfreezing Russias assets for any purpose.

In the wake of the ill-fated Russo-American 28-point proposal to bring about an end to the Ukraine conflict, the EU has ramped up its pressure on Belgium to unfreeze the assets so as not only to erase Ukraines $65 billion budget shortfall over the next two years but also to finance arms acquisition and civilian reconstruction.

But the Belgian government is still refusing to budge. And there are some in Europe, as a senior official told me this week, who believe that Washington is quietly encouraging Brussels to hold out against European pressure.

The Trump administration has in fact supported the EUs efforts use the assets as a loan guarantee for Ukraine. Although the U.S. has not unfrozen the $5 billion of Russian assets that it holds, it has permitted income that those assets generate to be loaned to Kyiv. Suspicion that Washington is actually undercutting its own public position may therefore simply be a reflection of Europes increasing distrust of American motives and policies.

At all events, the U.S. and the EU should consider taking additional steps to support Ukraines urgent financial needs. The EU should accede to Belgiums requirement that it only allow Russian assets to serve as collateral so that other member states provide it financial comfort to protect it against any Russian legal action. For its part, Washington could join the Europeans in unfreezing the Russian assets it currently holds.

Taking these steps, and doing so as soon as possible and certainly before years end not only would bolster Ukraines near term budget concerns and long term economic and military prospects. It would also strengthen Kyivs hand in what is likely to be a complicated and arduous negotiation with a Kremlin that remains determined to swallow up more of Ukraine, if not all of it.

Dov S. Zakheim is a senior adviser at the Center for Strategic and International Studies and vice chairman of the board for the Foreign Policy Research Institute. He was undersecretary of Defense (comptroller) and chief financial officer for the Department of Defense from 2001 to 2004 and a deputy undersecretary of Defense from 1985 to 1987.

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 64-year-old retiree out to pick up a Thanksgiving turkey was struck by a stray bullet during a broad daylight Manhattan shootout  with the slug now lodged dangerously close to her spine.

Francisca Nunez was walking at West 204th Street and Broadway at 4:18 p.m. Monday when a gang of teen hoodlums opened fire, striking her in the buttocks, with the punks still on the loose, police said.

Now Nunez, who was planning to return home to the Dominican Republic next month, is at Harlem Hospital, where doctors have been unable to remove the bullet, longtime friend Jose Louis said.

Francisca Nunez, 64, was walking on West 204th Street on Monday afternoon when she was struck by a stray bullet. Kyle Mazza/Shutterstock

Im angry, Louis, who has known Nunez for 30 years, told The Post Wednesday. They could have killed my friend. She could have got shot in the head, she could have got shot in the chest.

Its sad that it happened, he said. No matter what day or time, but its even sadder because it happened so close to Thanksgiving. Everybody is celebrating Thanksgiving but shes going to be in the hospital.

Police said at least a half-dozen suspects were behind the shooting, but it is unclear what sparked it and who was being targeted when the retiree was accidentally hit instead.

Nunez told WABC Eyewitness News that the teens were arguing when one pulled a knife before the shots rang out, knocking her to the ground.

Francisca Nunez, 64, told WABC she felt the heat from the bullet that hit her on Monday, then saw the blood. ABC7NY

The NYPD said at least a half-dozen suspects got into a scuffle when shots rang out and hit a bystander in Harlem. Kyle Mazza/Shutterstock

She told the outlet she felt heat from the bullet, then saw her blood gushing out.

Cops have launched a manhunt for the crew but have not announced any arrests.

Nunez retired to the Dominican Republic but came back to New York for a visit about seven months ago and was planning to return home next month, Louis said.

Jose Louis, a friend of Francisca Nunez, said the bullet that hit her lodged dangerously close to her spine. Kyle Mazza/Shutterstock

He said he believed Nunez was in the area to take advantage of turkeys and other Thanksgiving trimmings that were being donated in the neighborhood when she was hit.

These streets around here are very bad, he said. Its happening too often in this neighborhood.

Who are you looking for? Louis said, referring to the gunmen. How did you get the gun? Why are you carrying a knife? Why are you carrying a gun? I have too many questions to ask them.
When most people (myself included) think of New Mexico, they picture mountains, adobe buildings, lonesome highways, and barren desert landscapes. Jemez Springs, located about an hour north of Albuquerque, is none of those things. This historic village is a small town straight out of The Lord of the Rings, featuring lush terrain, extraterrestrial rock formations, and stunning waterfalls.

When you visit Jemez Springs, you leave the hustle and bustle of city life behind and enter a world where time stops and the air is charged with magic. From hiking through the dense forest to soaking in ancient hot springs and exploring a 4,000-year-old mission, this idyllic escape seems too perfect to be real. But that's the beauty of small towns in New Mexico; they're always full of surprises waiting to be discovered by adventurous travelers.

Kit Leong  stock.adobe.com

The American Southwest isnt exactly associated with forested hillsides, lush river valleys, or pristine bodies of water, but Jemez Springs has all three of those things. Visiting the town feels like youve traveled through a portal to Middle-earth, trading the arid desert landscape for a verdant oasis. Middle-earth, a fictional continent created by J.R.R. Tolkien for his iconic works, including The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, is characterized by pointed cliffs, illustrious waterfalls, emerald-green fields, and majestic castles. While you wont find any castles in Jemez Springs, the Jemez Historic Site is very fortress-like in appearance. This cultural landmark preserves the remains of the 16th-century Native American Giusewa Pueblo and the 17th-century Spanish colonial mission, San Jose de los Jemez.

The site is open to the public year-round, and walking through its narrow corridors, framed by eight-foot-high stone walls, is an unforgettable experience. If you happen to visit around Christmas time, hundreds of farolitos illuminate the mission in an ethereal glow that resembles the lanterns of Middle-earth.

Jim Ekstrand  stock.adobe.com

Fertile meadows and dramatic rock formations are Hallmark characteristics of a Middle-earth landscape, and Jemez Springs has both in abundance. The picturesque scene above showcases the ancient landscape of Valles Caldera National Preserve, a nearly 14-mile-wide volcanic crater perched atop a dormant supervolcano. Its lofty mountains, winding streams, and sprawling fields that paint the ground in a sea of green look like a fantasy novel brought to life.

The Jemez East River Slot Canyon Trail, shown below, is another Tolkien-esque destination, with its rugged bluffs, vast wilderness, and peaceful river that shimmers in the sunlight. Located within the Santa Fe National Forest, the trail is about five miles long and features numerous waterfalls.

Guy Bryant  stock.adobe.com

Of course, Ive saved the best for last. Of all the magical spots in Jemez Springs, Soda Dam looks the most like Middle-earth. This otherworldly place is home to 15 mineral-rich hot springs that have created a distinctive rock formation that spans the Jemez River. Some sections are window-like in appearance, resembling Tolkiens signature round Hobbit doors.

TSchofield  stock.adobe.com

Have you ever visited this small town straight out of The Lord of the Rings? Are there any other towns in New Mexico reminiscent of popular shows or films?

Plan your own trip to Jemez Springs with Only In Your State's AI-powered itinerary planner.
Homicide detectives in Trinidad and Tobago are investigating the suspected murder of an American man after reportedly going out to try to purchase marijuana.

The victim has been identified as Christopher Brown, 43, a builder from Silverthorne, Colorado, according to Trinidad and Tobago Police Service.

Police were told that Brown had dinner and drinks with friends on Wednesday night in Castara, a small fishing village on the island of Tobago. He then left his friends, telling them he was going to buy marijuana, the police report said.

Shortly after 10:30 p.m. local time, officers from the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service responded to a report that Brown was found unresponsive in the area, and he was later pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators believe he was stabbed, as they said there were several wounds about his body, and a metal object was found protruding from his back. Investigators are still trying to determine the motive for the killing.

Castara Bay in Tobago. / Credit: Westend61

A 24-year-old suspect is held in connection with the death, police said.

Authorities did not immediately say whether Brown was visiting Tobago at the time of this death or when he arrived on the island.

Tobago's Division of Tourism condemned the killing, saying this was "the first such act of violence" in the fishing village, which is known for being safe and welcoming, officials said.

Trinidad and Tobago has recorded over 330 homicides so far this year, according to police statistics. A state of emergency is currently in effect for the twin-island nation. Authorities implemented the measure in July, accusing a criminal network in prisons across the country of plotting to kill key government officials and attack public institutions.

The U.S. Embassy in Trinidad and Tobago recently issued a warning for Americans in the country. The alert cautioned Americans in the island nation to stay away from American government facilities amid growing tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela. Venezuela is just miles away from Trinidad.

Trump threatens major immigration overhauls after National Guard shooting

National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom dies after D.C. attack, officials say

Young mom murdered after receiving menacing messages from stalker
Democratic Tennessee congressional candidate Aftyn Behn [Screenshot/MS NOW]

Democratic Tennessee congressional candidate Aftyn Behn has entered the spotlight over her dramatic behavior, her far-left agenda and her admitted hatred for the state she hopes to represent.

Behn is running to become the next representative for Tennessees 7th district in a special election on Tuesday, which is being held due to former Republican Tennessee Rep. Mark Greens resignation. Both new and resurfaced footage has revealed that Behn has shown deep disdain for her potential constituents, condemned women for being wives and mothers and even got dragged out of a sitting governors office for rushing in without permission.

In April 2019, Behn and Enough is Enough-Tennessee, an activist group she was part of, engaged in a sit-in outside of Republican Tennessee Gov. Bill Lees office and demanded to speak with him about supporting the resignation of then-Republican Tennessee state Rep. David Byrd, who faced sexual misconduct allegations. Footage showed Behn rushing into Lees office and immediately being dragged out by officers while she screamed and sobbed.

WATCH:

State troopers warned that the women would be arrested if they did not leave the building, prompting several of them to follow orders. However, Behn and a few others remained in the building. (RELATED: Watch As Democratic Congressional Candidate Sobs Like Toddler After Being Thrown Out Of Governors Race)

A month later, Behn walked into the chamber in the Tennessee state Legislature and shouted that Byrd and then-House Speaker Glen Casada must resign.

Im here today on behalf of communities that you have silenced today in this legislative session, Behn shouted. You have been violent to our various communities this entire legislative session. You have stopped any accountability! You have been taken out! You have been violent and extreme towards people of color, towards women, towards minorities! You have failed! This is unacceptable behavior! You shouldnt do this! This is the worst administration!

Security then escorted her out of the chamber, cited her and released her from police custody later that day, News Channel 5 Nashville reported in 2019.

WATCH:

Behn stated that she hates everything about Nashville, which is partially located in the 7th district that she hopes to represent. She complained about the country music, the bachelorettes, the pedal taverns and everything else that makes Nashville distinct from other parts of the U.S.

I hate the city, I hate the bachelorettes, I hate the pedal taverns, I hate country music, I hate all of the things that make Nashville apparently an it city to the rest of the country. But I hate it, Behn said on the Year old GRITS podcast in February 2020.

The congressional candidate further labeled Tennessee as a racist state in an op-ed for the Tennessean in March 2019. She wrote, Let me be clear: Tennessee is a racist state. Racism is in the air we breathe, permeating the State Capitol, codified in the legislation being passed at the detriment of women, communities of color, and the working poor. Our problem with racism in this state is wild and untamed.

Behn pushed for training programs to show women how to perform an abortion at home during a May 2022 interview with The Tennessee Holler. She also promised that she would help women find ways to get access to abortion pills.

What is the positive if there is a silver lining? What this does not mean for Tennessee is that groups on the ground will continue to provide training in terms of self-managed abortions, and so, instead of going to a doctor because we wont have any doctors that provide abortions, how do you do it at home? We will continue to support reproductive justice organizations and grassroots movements and well continue to figure out how to get abortion pills to people. So the organizing does not stop just because Roe is overturned, Behn said.

WATCH:

During a House race forum, Behn vowed to carry a trans bill of rights at every legislative session. She lamented how children identifying as transgender are in danger and that she supported resources for transgender people.

Every legislative session, I promise to carry a trans bill of rights so that we can push back against the far right narrative that is being emanated by Matt Walsh and the Daily Wire, who have set up their homes in Nashville. And I promise to do that. I promise to fight for our trans community, Behn said.

WATCH:

The far-left candidate supports taxpayer funded surgeries and procedures for trans-identifying kids. In June, she condemned the Supreme Courts decision to uphold Tennessees ban on trans surgeries for minors, claiming in a statement that the ruling was pushing us farther into a dangerous future where politics  rather than science dictates the lives of our most vulnerable.

During the Year old GRITS episode in 2020, Behn also claimed that men can give birth.

I think we have as birthers men and women who can give birth we can maybe leverage that as collective bargaining which is the basis of this book that Ive just started reading called Birth Strike,' Behn said.

Behn accused women who get married and have children of engaging in deeply patriarchal structures. She said that she dreams of standing up in a cafeteria full of women and saying, I dont want children! I want power!

My therapist always asks me to transcribe my dreams when they happen. And the recurring dream Ive had is standing up in a Cafeteria full of women, I dont know why we were there, and saying I dont want children. I want power! And just screaming it at the top of my lungs. And for someone who grew up with my mother telling me, never have kids because youll have to give up a lot. Youll have to sacrifice professionally is what shes saying and where I am now with seeing the consequences and ramifications of women having kids in the political field and what theyre able to achieve  but also the deeply patriarchal structures that these women are involved with because theyve chosen marriage and theyve chosen to raise children.

In another interview, Behn said that sororities at southern colleges are a staple of white supremacy.

The Tennessee Democrat complained during the Red State Blue Moon podcast in June 2024 that she is deeply uncomfortable by every state legislative session in the Tennessee House opening up with a prayer.

In 2020, Behn wrote in now-deleted X posts that the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department should be dissolved, that defunding the police should be a requirement for reopening schools and suggested that burning down police stations is justified. She refused to walk back these comments during an interview on MS NOW Sunday.

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.
The vehicle is the second entirely Varda-made vehicle and carries a government payload.

EL SEGUNDO, Calif., Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Varda Space Industries announced today that their fifth mission, W-5, successfully launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base in Lompoc, California aboard the Transporter-15 rideshare mission with SpaceX.

W-5 is the company's fifth launch overall, and fourth launch of 2025. The vehicle carries a government payload funded through the Prometheus program, a partnership between the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) and commercial space entities. Prometheus is addressing a national security need to accelerate the ability to conduct novel science and technology experiments in the extreme reentry environment through a low-cost, high cadence flight testbed enabled by industry providers. Previous flights funded through Prometheus include Varda's W-2 and W-3 missions.

Dual-use flights leveraging commercial entities like Varda provide the reentry test community with a novel, low-cost approach to iterative hypersonic science and technology experimentation. The unique aerothermal chemistry of the reentry environment is impossible to fully simulate or replicate on the ground, and flight testing is the best way to advance comprehensive understanding of the reentry environment.

Varda's W-series hypersonic reentry capsule is the lowest cost, most rapid, recoverable option to reproduce the most challenging hypersonic and reentry flight environments. Varda's capsule enters the atmosphere at 18,000 miles per hour and hits Mach 25+ on every mission before landing by parachute on Earth.

"With W-5, AFRL and Varda again demonstrated that hypersonic flight testing can be done routinely and affordably," said Brandi Sippel, Vice President of Mission Management at Varda Space Industries. "Each Prometheus mission helps expand access to the reentry environment, accelerating the science and engineering that define the future of hypersonic systems."

The W-5 vehicle consists of three Varda-made components: the hypersonic reentry capsule, the satellite bus, which provides power, navigation and propulsion in orbit, and an ablative heatshield made of C-PICA. The entire W-series vehicle is produced at Varda's El Segundo headquarters.

About Varda

Varda Space Industries is building the infrastructure for a thriving orbital economy, from in-orbit pharmaceutical processing to reliable and economical hypersonic reentry capsules. The company operates out of El Segundo, California with office and industrial production space and has office space in Washington, D.C. and Huntsville, Alabama. Follow Varda on X (@vardaspace), Instagram (@vardaspaceindustries), and LinkedIn.

Alex Pearlman: [email protected]

SOURCE Varda Space Industries Inc.
The Trump administration on Thursday said it would reexamine green cards linked to 19 countries after two National Guard members were shot outside of a metro station blocks from the White House.

At the direction of @POTUS, I have directed a full scale, rigorous reexamination of every Green Card for every alien from every country of concern, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Director Joseph Edlow wrote in a post on the social platform X.

The protection of this country and of the American people remains paramount, and the American people will not bear the cost of the prior administrations reckless resettlement policies. American safety is non-negotiable, he added in a follow-up post.

A June memo from the Trump administration listed 19 countries of concern with entry restrictions. The nations highlighted are Afghanistan, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Myanmar, Somalia, Sudan, along with Yemen, Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela.

The move comes after the suspected shooter who targeted two National Guard members on Wednesday was named as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national who entered the United States in September 2021 through the program Operation Allies Welcome.

President Trump and Vice President Vance have slammed the Biden administration for presiding over the immigration policy that welcomed Afghan refugees, while USCIS immediately suspended all immigration applications from Afghan nationals.

I remember back in 2021 criticizing the Biden policy of opening the floodgate to unvetted Afghan refugees, Vance said.

Friends sent me messages calling me a racist. It was a clarifying moment. They shouldnt have been in our country.

Attorney General Pam Bondi said they are seeking the death penalty for Lakanwal. Reports allege that he previously served in one of Afghanistans elite counterterrorism units, according to #AfghanEvac, a nonprofit run by U.S. veterans and others who served in Afghanistan.

This subject had a relationship in Afghanistan with partner forces, FBI Director Kash Patel said on Wednesday, according to NPR. We are fully investigating that aspect of his background as well, to include any known associates that are either overseas or who are here in the United States of America.

Before the shooting, the Trump administration on Tuesday ordered USCIS to re-interview some 200,000 refugees who entered the country, according to a memo obtained by The Hill. The memo suggested that refugees protections could be stripped.

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.
Makeshift shelters erected by displaced Sudanese who fled the Rapid Support Forces make up the Um Yanqur camp, located on the southwestern edge of Tawila, Sudan, on November 3, 2025. - AFP/Getty Images

President Donald Trump has pledged to use the influence of the presidency to bring an immediate halt to the two-year-old war in Sudan that the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees estimates has displaced nearly 12 million people.

Its a significant development for a crisis that has shown little sign of abating, with some experts expressing cautious optimism that the US presidents intervention could help stop the fighting. However, they warn that a long-term end to the brutal conflict will not be easily reached.

Trump, who has touted himself as a peacemaker, said last week that it was not on (his) charts to be involved in ending the war. However, after a personal request from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, Trump said he would engage on the issue.

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 were going to start working on Sudan, he said at an event alongside the Saudi leader in Washington, DC last Wednesday.

The war has been raging for more than two years between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). It has claimed tens of thousands of lives and given rise to the worlds largest humanitarian crisis. Both sides have been accused by the US of war crimes; the Biden administration declared that the RSF committed genocide.

The US has been working for years alongside Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Egypt as part of whats known as the Quad to try to broker an end to the fighting and establish a path to a democratic transition in Sudan. The efforts by the Trump administration have been led by Special Envoy Massad Boulos, a Trump ally and Tiffany Trumps father-in-law.

But to date, the White House has stayed out of the negotiations, which changed with Trumps direct commitment last week and has created some optimism among experts.

I think theres a whole bunch of very needed and necessary short-term objectives that Trump can help to bring about, said Cameron Hudson, an Africa analyst and former director for African Affairs on the National Security Council. Theres no question, and I think hes uniquely positioned to do it.

Still, a week after his commitment, it is unclear how specifically the president plans to personally use his influence. Diplomatic efforts continue to stall; Sudans top general rejected the latest ceasefire proposal this weekend and accused the mediators of bias.

There is no sense that theres a shift in Washington. Theres no sense that now theres going to be a strategy, said Kholood Khair, the director of the Khartoum-founded think tank Confluence Advisory. Its incredibly unlikely that there is movement on a truce before the end of the year, Khair told CNN.

US President Donald Trump meets with Crown Prince of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman in the Oval Office of the White House on November 18, 2025. - Brendan Smialowski/AFP/Getty Images

Questions of pressure

The conflict has been heavily fueled by outside support. There have been calls for the US to increase the pressure on the United Arab Emirates, which has been widely accused, including by US lawmakers and a UN panel of experts, of supplying weapons to the RSF. The UAE has denied this.

Sudan has become, really, the theater of war for a lot of the US allies in the region, Khair said.

There are questions about whether Trump himself is prepared to exert pressure on allies, particularly the UAE.

Khair noted that the administration has interests with Abu Dhabi specifically related to Israel, as the UAE is a member of the Abraham Accords. She argued that the accords, which Trump touts as a keystone foreign policy achievement, is a far higher priority to the US president than Sudan.

The Trump family also has business ties to the UAE, Khair noted. The Trump Organization is making millions from licensing agreements and cryptocurrency deals with government backed businesses in the country, Forbes reported last month.

The US has not publicly pressured the UAE, but Secretary of State Marco Rubio said recently that something needs to be done to cut off the weapons and the support the RSF is getting.

I can just tell you at the highest levels of our government, that case is being made and that pressure is being applied to the relevant parties, Rubio said in mid-November. He has spoken twice in two weeks with his Emirati counterpart.

Still, some experts told CNN that Trump is more likely to have sway over the outside actors than the warring parties themselves as the US has little leverage over the RSF or SAF.

The Trump administration is well positioned to mediate among the outside powers, because all of those powers are their friends. Its Turkey, its Egypt, its Qatar. Its Saudi. Its UAE, Hudson said.

Trump is made for that moment, he added. Hes made for the moment of striking an elite deal among big men. What hes not made for is rolling up his sleeves and getting involved in the nitty gritty of Sudanese politics.

Jeffrey Feltman, a former US special envoy for the Horn of Africa, said that Trumps comments were promising and encouraging.

Im persuaded that the Quad countries will only take Sudan seriously if they believe the President finds this important, he told CNN. There has to be a serious reduction in violence, and I dont see where the US has the leverage to do that, meaning we have to use our leverage on those that do.

However, Manal Taha, a security and peace process expert from Sudan, told CNN that a ceasefire between the two warring generals is not going to stop the war and the suffering on the ground.

The war has become tribal and ethnic, and there have been so many atrocities, the generational trauma has to be addressed, she said.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
President Trump Addresses U.S. Troops On Thanksgiving From Mar-A-Lago (Photo by Pete Marovich/Getty Images)

President Donald Trump suggested the military will expand its campaign against alleged Venezuelan drug traffickers very soon, during remarks to U.S. service members on Thursday.

Though the militarys anti-drug trafficking strikes have been limited to the Caribbean Sea, the president said the armed forces would soon be taking new action against drug traffickers by land. The military has executed nearly two dozen strikes on alleged drug boats since early September, resulting in the deaths of more than 80 people. (RELATED: Most Americans Do Not Want Trump To Strike Venezuela: POLL)

In recent weeks, youve been working to deter Venezuelan drug traffickers, of which there are many, Trump said during a call thanking the Air Forces 7th Bomb Wing for their efforts supporting the newly-named Operation Southern Spear. Of course, there arent too many coming in by sea anymore.

You probably noticed that people arent wanting to be delivering by sea, and well be starting to stop them by land also, Trump continued. Also, the land is easier, but thats going to start very soon  We warn them: Stop sending poison to our country.

Trumps Thanksgiving Day remarks come as he is evaluating whether to pursue military action against Venezuela. The White House has repeatedly referred to Venezuelan socialist dictator Nicolas Maduro as an illegitimate leader and taken a variety of steps to ramp up pressure against his socialist regime.

Trump has deployed a level of military assets around Venezuela not seen in decades. The USS Gerald R. Ford  the worlds largest aircraft carrier  arrived in the Caribbean Sea in mid-November as part of Operation Southern Spear.

Several top military leaders, including General Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, have visited the region over the past several weeks.

On Nov. 16, the State Department announced it would designate a Maduro-linked cartel as a foreign terrorist organization. The declaration could allow the president to order new sanctions targeting Maduros assets.

Trump has also not ruled out talking directly to Maduro amid the multi-pronged pressure campaign.

Venezuelas President Nicolas Maduro delivers a speech while holding the Venezuelan independence hero Simon Bolivars Sword of Peru during a military ceremony in Fuerte Tiuna, Caracas on November 25, 2025. (Photo by Federico PARRA / AFP via Getty Images)

Trump previously floated expanding the militarys strikes against alleged drug smugglers to land in October.

The land is going to be next, Trump said during a press conference with his homeland security task force. And we may go to the Senate; we may go to the Congress and tell them about it, but I cant imagine theyd have any problem with it.

The vast majority of Americans are opposed to potential military action against Venezuela, according to a CBS News/YouGov survey conducted in November. Seventy-six percent of respondents also said the Trump administration has yet to explain its position on military action against the Maduro regime.

Congressional Democrats and leading opponents of foreign intervention, including Republican Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul, have sharply criticized the military strikes against alleged drug smugglers. They argue the Trump administration must provide evidence that the vessels are trafficking drugs and that Trump needs authorization from Congress to strike the boats.

The Pentagon referred the DCNF to the White House for comment. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

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.
NEED TO KNOW

President Donald Trump snapped at a CBS News reporter when she questioned him about the man accused of shooting two National Guard members in Washington, D.C.

Trump had claimed the suspect was among hundreds of Afghan nationals whom Biden let into the U.S. without vetting, prompting CBS' Nancy Cordes to note that Trump's own administration said the man was thoroughly vetted

Trump has lashed out at multiple women in the White House press corps over the past two weeks, including calling one reporter "piggy" and another "ugly, both inside and out"

President Donald Trump lashed out at another female reporter while taking questions from the White House press corps on Thanksgiving Day, asking her, Are you stupid?

While talking to reporters at Mar-a-Lago on Thursday, Nov. 27, CBS News White House correspondent Nancy Cordes asked Trump about the Washington, D.C., shooting on Nov. 26 that killed one National Guard member and injured another.

Suspect Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, an Afghan national, drove from his home in Washington state to the nations capital, where he allegedly shot the two troops just blocks from the White House, authorities said.

West Virginia National Guard Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, died from her injuries and National Guard Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, was seriously wounded.

Quickly taken into custody, Lakanwal now faces multiple charges including first-degree murder, U.S. Attorney for D.C. Jeanine Pirro announced on Fox & Friends on Friday, Nov. 28.

U.S. Attorneys Office via AP Rahmanullah Lakanwal's mug shot

At Thursday's press conference, Cordes asked Trump about Lakanwal, who had previously worked with the CIA as a member of a "partner force" in Afghanistan, according to CIA Director John Ratcliffe.



U.S. officials say the suspect worked very closely with the CIA in Afghanistan for years and he was vetted and the vetting came up clean," Cordes said.

Trump replied, He went cuckoo. He went nuts and that happens too, it happens too often with these people."

Holding up a picture of dozens of Afghans stuffed on an airplane, he said, Look, this is how they come in. Theyre standing on top of each other."

There was no vetting or anything," Trump continued. "They came in unvetted. And we have a lot of others in this country and were going to get them out. But they go cuckoo. Something happens to them.

Lakanwal was among hundreds of Afghans allowed into the U.S. under the Biden administrations Operation Allies Welcome program in 2021, during the chaotic withdrawal from Kabul.

Pete Marovich/Getty; Michele Crowe/CBS via Getty President Donald Trump asked CBS News' Nancy Cordes if she was "stupid" on Thanksgiving

Trump became irritated when Cordes challenged him about Lakanwal's vetting, saying, Your DOJ IG just reported this year that there was thorough vetting by DHS and by the FBI of these Afghans who were brought into the U.S., so why do you blame the Biden administration?

Without missing a beat, Trump said, Because they let 'em in. Are you stupid? Are you a stupid person?

He continued, Because they came in on a plane along with thousands of other people that shouldnt be here, and youre just asking questions because youre a stupid person.



He went on, saying, They were unvetted. They were unchecked. There were many of 'em. And they came in on big planes, and it was disgraceful."

Once they are here, he insisted, "its almost impossible to get people to leave.

Questioning Cordes' intelligence was the latest instance of Trump lashing out at the female journalists who cover him.

On Nov. 26, Trump called The New York Times' Katie Rogers "ugly, both inside and out" in a lengthy social media post after the outlet published a story about how his age has seemingly affected his schedule during his second term.

Those remarks came less than two weeks after Trump hushed Bloomberg's Catherine Lucey when she asked if there is anything incriminating in the Epstein emails, pointing at her and angrily saying, "Quiet. Quiet, Piggy."

He then called ABC News' Mary Bruce a "terrible person and a terrible reporter" when she similarly asked a question about his ties to Epstein during a Nov. 18 press conference.

The White House has doubled down in support of the president in response to backlash over Trump's recent attacks.

On Nov. 20, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt suggested that her boss's frankness to journalists' faces is more "respectful" than going behind their backs or avoiding questions altogether.

"Look, the president is very frank & honest with everyone in this room," she said during a press briefing with White House correspondents. "You've all seen it yourselves. You've all experienced it yourselves. And I think it's one of the many reasons the American people reelected this president, because of his frankness."

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.

After Trump called Rogers "ugly," a White House spokesperson leaned on the same defense in a statement to PEOPLE, saying, President Trump has never been politically correct, never holds back, and in large part, the American people re-elected him for his transparency."

"This has nothing to do with gender," the spokesperson insisted, adding, "it has everything to do with the fact that the Presidents and the publics trust in the media is at all time lows.

PEOPLE has reached out to the White House and to CBS News for comments on Trump's latest comments.



Read the original article on People
President Trump suggested Thursday the United States will very soon take action against alleged Venezuelan drug traffickers on land after weeks of repeated strikes in Caribbean waters.

In recent weeks, youve been working to deter Venezuelan drug traffickers, of which there are many, Trump told military personnel in remarks on Thanksgiving. Of course, there arent too many coming in by sea anymore.

You probably noticed that people arent wanting to be delivering by sea, and well be starting to stop them by land also, he continued.

The land is easier, but thats going to start very soon. We warn them: Stop sending poison to our country, Trump added.

His comments come after the militarys decision to position the USS Gerald R. Ford in the region earlier this month.

The enhanced U.S. force presence in the USSOUTHCOM AOR will bolster U.S. capacity to detect, monitor, and disrupt illicit actors and activities that compromise the safety and prosperity of the United States homeland and our security in the Western Hemisphere, chief Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell said in a statement.

These forces will enhance and augment existing capabilities to disrupt narcotics trafficking and degrade and dismantle Transnational Criminal Organizations, Parnell added.

The Trump administrations maintains its goal is to prohibit illegal narcotics from being smuggled into the U.S. However, strikes on boats in the Caribbean have raised concerns for foreign leaders and lawmakers in Washington, as reports allege people killed while in transport had no involvement in drug trafficking.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has been dubbed an illegitimate leader by Trump, who has associated him with drug trafficking operations in the region, despite his denial.

[Oil] is at the heart of the matter, Colombian President Gustavo Petro told CNN in an interview published Wednesday.

So, thats a negotiation about oil. I believe that is [President] Trumps logic. Hes not thinking about the democratization of Venezuela, let alone the narco-trafficking, added the South American president, who last month was sanctioned by the Trump administration.

Venezuela is not a large producer of fentanyl, and the Drug Enforcement Agency in 2020 estimated that approximately 74 percent of the cocaine entering the United States travels through the Pacific.

The State Department also estimated in 2020 a majority of the cocaine coming out of Venezuela was transferred to Europe or Brazil, according to The New York Times.

The news outlet reported earlier this month that military officers confirmed no cocaine was found onboard the ships struck by United States armed forces.

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.
National flags of the U.S. and Switzerland are placed on tables before an event of the Swiss-American Chamber of Commerce in Zurich, Switzerland January 18, 2019. REUTERS/Arnd WIegmann

By Dave Graham

ZURICH (Reuters) -The U.S. Commerce Department pressed Switzerland during recent trade talks to commit billions of dollars in investments that Washington could allocate at its discretion, but Swiss officials refused, according to two people familiar with the matter.

On November 14, the United States and Switzerland announced a framework agreement under which Washington would cut tariffs on Swiss goods to 15% from 39%, while Swiss companies pledged to invest $200 billion in the U.S. by the end of 2028.

That was 10 days after a meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and a group of Swiss business leaders at the White House which helped accelerate talks to roll back tariffs Trump imposed in August, the sources said.

Back in September, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick had urged Swiss negotiators to pledge investments for Washington to direct, similar to an accord the Trump administration said it had reached with Japan, the sources said.

Alfred Gantner, co-founder of Partners Group and a member of the Swiss business delegation that met Trump, told Friday's edition of Switzerland's Tages-Anzeiger newspaper that top Swiss trade officials refused to put money at the disposal of the U.S.

"When the Americans demanded $100 billion to be used as they wished, as in the deal with Japan, they said Switzerland would never accept such a thing," Gantner said.

Gantner referenced Lutnick by name in the same context during a separate interview with Swiss national broadcaster SRF. He did not specify when the demand had been made.

The Swiss Economy Ministry said it would not comment on what was discussed and pointed to a statement issued two weeks ago in which Switzerland pledged to facilitate investment in the United States. It said the business delegation's meeting helped move talks forward.

The U.S. Commerce Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Lutnick had previously said the U.S.-Japan deal could serve as a model for other countries, including in Europe.

After meeting the Swiss business delegation, Trump publicly instructed U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer to resume tariff talks with Switzerland.

During the final phase of negotiations this month, Lutnick again urged the Swiss to put billions of dollars in investment at the disposal of the United States, but Switzerland refused, one of the sources told Reuters.

Neither Greer nor U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent pressed the Swiss to grant the United States discretion over how Swiss investments should be spent as they worked towards securing a deal, one of the sources said.

Greer's office and the U.S. Treasury Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Lutnick's push was ultimately ignored as the Swiss put the finishing touches to the deal, the source added.

(Reporting by Dave GrahamAdditional reporting by Elisa MartinuzziEditing by Ros Russell)
ISRAEL-US-PALESTINIAN-CONFLICT-TRUMP (Photo by SAUL LOEB/AFP via Getty Images)

One year into President Donald Trumps second term, the relationship between the United States and Israel has been tested on several fronts, including a brief but significant confrontation with Iran and a prolonged effort to secure peace in Gaza, foreign policy experts told the Daily Caller News Foundation.

Dealing with issues related to Israel has been a major focus of Trumps first year back at the White House, and he spent significant political capital to negotiate a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas and to settle Jerusalems brief but decisive conflict with Iran over its nuclear program. As the U.S.-Israel relationship faces tough scrutiny from both the left and the right, experts spoke to the DCNF about how the relationship has evolved during an eventful 2025, and where it might lead as Trump takes on three more years of power.

It was very frustrating to leave the relationship between the United States and Israel on such a high with the Abraham Accords in 2020, and then come in to find the relationship really in tatters after what I consider to be the almost overt abuse of the Biden administration in two years of war after after October 7. [Trump] moved quickly to mend those ties. (RELATED: Israel Carries Out Strike In Beirut Targeting High-Profile Official)

US President Donald Trump (L) speaks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the Israeli parliament, the Knesset, in Jerusalem on October 13, 2025. (Photo by Evelyn Hockstein/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Trump made securing a ceasefire between Hamas and Israel a high priority for his administration, ultimately succeeding in October. Both sides have since carried out limited strikes and accused each other of violating the terms, but the agreement remains in place and has held back major hostilities.

However, Israel launched a strike on Beirut, Lebanons capital, for the first time in months. The strike targeted and eliminated Hezbollah Chief of Staff Haytham Ali Tabatabai, but also killed five others and injured 28, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry.

Many conservatives have grown more skeptical of the U.S.-Israel relationship, pointing to Israels heavy involvement in numerous conflicts with its neighbors and the potential of Israel to drag the U.S. into a conflict in the future.

On the argument that Israel is an important partner for the United States in the Middle East: Show me the receipts for that, Trita Parsi, executive vice president of the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, told the DCNF. Where are the big wins for the United States that Israel has helped deliver?

The U.S. burned through nearly a quarter of missile interceptors to defend Israel from Iranian missile attacks during the 12-day war. Defense experts have long sounded the alarm that shrinking U.S. stockpiles of critical munitions could leave America unprepared to face China in a war over Taiwan.

Amid those challenges, some officials aligned with the Trump administration continue to argue that Israels relationship with the U.S. remains worth guarding.

Victoria Coates, former deputy national security advisor during Trumps first term, told the DCNF that Israels extensive defense and technology cooperation with the U.S. has been a great help in the development of the Golden Dome missile defense system, aimed at protecting the American mainland from incoming ballistic missiles.

What we are now building, in terms of Golden Dome in the first year of the Trump term, I dont think would be possible without the participation of Israel, Coates told the DCNF. That is a very material gain for us, for the American people. They are a very small country, but they have punched so hugely above their weight in terms of innovation.

Parsi said that the Israeli strikes on Doha, Qatar were a turning point for the administrations perception of Israel, arguing that the strikes severely damaged the U.S. confidence in Israels supposed push for peace in the Middle East.

We saw a change that was in the making, which was a lot of frustration in the White House with Israel and with Netanyahu in particular, Parsi told the DCNF. Trump started to recognize that Israel was becoming political baggage for him.

Trump was reportedly furious with Netanyahu after the strikes in Doha, saying the prime minister was f*cking him. Israel failed to kill any of Hamas leadership in the strikes, only killing 5 Hamas personnel and one Qatari security officer. There were conflicting accounts as to whether Trump was notified about the strikes on Qatar before they happened, with Israeli officials insisting that they gave the president at least short notice prior to the event.

Trump has expressed frustration with Netanyahu and Israel multiple times during his term, but Coates does not believe any actions that may have angered Trump will have a lasting impact on the relationship.

I actually dont think it was damaged, because I dont think it was all that personal to begin with, having interacted with them on a fairly regular basis, Coates told the DCNF regarding Netanyahu and Trumps relationship. They are both politicians, they are colleagues. They both have a very profound respect and appreciation for the U.S.-Israel relationship. But theyre not friends. Its not a personal relationship, [and] I dont say that to denigrate it.

Trump and Netanyahu continue to publicly support one another, and both have reaffirmed their commitment to the important, long-standing alliance. However, Trump acknowledged in September the significant impact that Israel-aligned lobbying efforts have had in shaping U.S. policy, and previously told the DCNF that he believes their power is waning in Congress.

I mean, I will tell you, Israel had the strongest lobby in Congress of anything or body, or of any company or corporation or state that Ive ever seen. Israel was the strongest. Today, it doesnt have that strong a lobby. Its amazing, Trump told the Daily Callers Reagan Reese.

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.
POLAND-UKRAINE-DIPLOMACY-ZELENSKY-DUDA (Sergei Gapon/AFP via Getty Images)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyys chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, resigned Friday after his home was raided in an ongoing corruption probe that threatens to undermine Zelenskyys grip on power during wartime.

Ukrainian authorities on Friday raided the home of Andriy Yermak, Zelenskyys chief of staff and right-hand man, as part of a sweeping corruption probe investigating Zelenskyys possible involvement in a $100 million scheme to defraud the nations atomic energy company. Yermaks resignation comes at a time when Zelenskyy is under increasing pressure to accept a U.S.-brokered peace deal to end Ukraines war with Russia.

The investigation has shaken Ukrainian confidence in Zelenskyys administration while Russian strikes continue to rock critical infrastructure. So far, Russia has not commented on the new proposed peace deal. (RELATED: Ukraines Holy War Comes To America)

Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (R) and Head of the Office of the Presidency of Ukraine Andriy Yermak (L) during their meeting at the Zarzuela Palace in Madrid on November 18, 2025. (Photo by Oscar DEL POZO / AFP via Getty Images)

Ukrainian opposition party European Solidarity called for a no-confidence vote to remove Zelenskyy from power, but so far attempts to remove him have failed.

Zelenskyy first rose to power on an anti-corruption platform in the 2019 elections, which propelled him into the international spotlight. He has enjoyed a positive global reputation during the three-year war with Russia and has been hailed by numerous Western leaders as a beacon of democracy against autocratic Russia.

Zelenskyy has so far worked with the U.S. on the proposed peace agreement, but has also expressed major reservations about what it will mean for his country. In a public address on November 21, Zelenskyy said the plan puts Ukraine in the position of either losing its dignity or the risk of losing a key partner.

Despite the prospect of losing U.S. intelligence sharing and weapons if Ukraine doesnt accept the deal, Zelenskyy has been shoring up European alliances and international support, most recently signing a deal with France to obtain 100 Rafale jets for its air force. The deal also included anti-air equipment, drones and other munitions.

The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs did not immediately respond to the Daily Caller News Foundations request for comment.

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.
As the U.S. Supreme Court is weighing the limits of the executive branchs authority on tariffs, it is important to consider the tradeoffs that come with free trade. In American political and business circles, free trade has long been the favored mantra. Investors, executives, and most politicians speak of it with near-religious conviction. According to Google Trends, Americans have searched for free trade roughly twice as often as for fair trade since 2004. Mentions of fair or reciprocal trade, by contrast, are far rarerthough Donald Trump managed to raise their profile over the past decade.

This imbalance in attention is not just a matter of economic theory. It reflects the political arithmetic that makes free trade a perennial favorite and fair trade a hard sell in Washington. This arithmetic follows an old Chinese proverb: It is better to break one finger than to injure ten (). But doing this can land the American economy in a ditch.

Politicians rarely lose votes backing free trade, because the numbersof voters, donors, and dollarstilt decisively in its favor. On the one hand, tariffs are the inevitable instrument of fair trade. They help domestic producers compete, reopen shuttered plants, and revive manufacturing towns. They also allow middle-aged steelworkers, for example, to keep well-paying jobs rather than take minimum-wage ones.

But tariffs come with visible costs on the other hand. Importers pay first, then tryoften unsuccessfullyto pass them along to consumers. Exporters and original equipment manufacturers absorb another share to keep their business. Eventually, the burden ripples through currencies, supply chains, and countries. As such, tariffs are not exactly a tax on consumers in the conventional sense, even though consumers may and frequently do end up paying higher prices.

As a result, politicians follow the Chinese proverb instinctively: higher tariffs hurt many consumers a little, but help a few workers a lot. Lower tariffs, meanwhile, help many consumers a little, but hurt a few workers a lot. Faced with a choice between slightly annoying millions or devastating thousands, politicians will choose the latter. Theyd rather break one finger than to injure ten. And so, free trade wins.

Theres more. Advocating free trade is not only politically saferits more lucrative. Campaign donations tend to flow from the beneficiaries of global capital mobility, not from the victims of industrial decline.

Free trade in America, of course, does not mean reciprocal trade. Foreign firms often enjoy wide access to U.S. markets, while American companies face high barriers abroad. This asymmetry gives foreign producers a structural advantage. They can exploit scale economies, invest more heavily in innovation, and recruit global talentall while American firms face shrinking market share.

Imagine a pharmaceutical company in New Jersey with a patented drug. If it produces in the U.S., it can sell domesticallybut faces steep tariffs abroad. If it produces, say in China, however, it can sell both in China and in the U.S. tariff-free. The giant sucking sound Ross Perot once warned about is the sound of capital following profitsaway from American workers and communities.

As JPMorgans Jamie Dimon recently lamented, Its a little embarrassing that we as a nation allowed 100% of our penicillin to come from China, and all of our rare earths, and all of our advanced chipmaking tools. We need to get our act together.

Yet the arithmetic of modern politics stands in the way. Capital is mobile; labor is not. Free trade enriches many investors by a small margin but impoverishes some workers by a large one. Fair or reciprocal trade, conversely, would slightly reduce returns for many investors to substantially improve conditions for a few workers. Given that political campaigns depend on money more than on gratitude, its easy to see which side wins.

The irony is that by repeatedly breaking one finger to save ten, we may end up with none. Each individual decision to favor capital over labor, imports over production, or global supply chains over domestic resilience may seem compelling and rational in isolation. But cumulatively, they hollow out the national hand that once built and held the global economy.

To get our act together, policymakers must change the arithmetic itself. Sometimes, it is wiser to injure ten fingers a little than to break one entirely. The business community can help by following the lead of companies like Applewho has pledged to invested $600 billion in four years as part of its new American Manufacturing Programand JP Morgan Chasewho is committing to facilitating and financing $1.5 trillion in the next decade to support U.S. economic security and resilience.

Efforts like these allow the system to heal and keep all ten fingers intact. Its time policymakers, business communities, and even consumers do the right thing and give fair trade a chance, even if it means we all must make some small sacrifices.

The opinions expressed in Fortune.com commentary pieces are solely the views of their authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and beliefs of Fortune.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
Two years ago, a pair of 22-year-old friends who met in high school in Michigan found themselves sitting inside Tsinghua Universitys brain lab in Beijing, staring down a multimillion-dollar offer from Elon Musk.

The two had just done something unusual for the moment: they built a small large-language model (LLM) trained not on massive internet data dumps, but on a tiny, carefully chosen set of high-quality conversations. And they taught it to improve itself using reinforcement learning (RL), a technique where a model learns the way a person or animal does: by making decisions, receiving feedback, and then refining behavior through rewards and penalties.

At the time, almost no one was doing this with language models. The only other group exploring RL for LLMs was DeepSeek, the Chinese OpenAI competitor that would later terrify Silicon Valley.

The two students, William Chen and Guan Wang, called their model OpenChat, and they open-sourced it on a whim.

To their shock, OpenChat blew up.

It got very famous, Chen told Fortune. Researchers at Berkeley and Stanford pulled the code, built on top of it, and began citing the work. In academic circles, it became one of the earliest examples of how a small model trained on good data, as opposed to more data, could punch above its weight.

Then it landed somewhere Chen never expected: Elon Musks inbox.

Musk sent an email through what, at the time, was his new company, xAI, which wanted to recruit the students in a multi-million dollar pay package, Chen says. It was the kind of offer young founders dreamed of.

They hesitated. Then, they turned it down.



We decided that large-language models have their limitations, Chen said. We want a new architecture that will overcome the structural limitation of [large-scale machine learning].

Instead of taking the deal, they left the comfortable momentum of OpenChat behind and pursued something far more ambitious: a brain-inspired reasoning system they believed could outperform current AI models.

That decision would lead, two years later, to Sapient Intelligence  and to a model that outperformed some of the worlds biggest AI systems on tests of abstract reasoning. They are confident their model is going to be the first to achieve AGI, or artificial general intelligence, the so-called holy grail in AI research where a machines intelligence can match or surpass that of a human in any cognitive task.

Between the two worlds of the arms race

Chens path to turning down Musk didnt begin in Beijing, but in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, and with a childhood obsession that drove his parents crazy.

When I was young, I would break things apart and never put them back together, he said. Thats what got me started.

Chan was born in China, raised partly in San Diego and Shenzhen, and eventually sent to attend Cranbrook Schools  a prestigious private boarding school in Michigan  around the time he met Wang, a boy his age who attended a different school but had an equally unusual obsession.

On the first day they met, the two fell into a long conversation about what Chen calls their metagoals, the ultimate purpose of their lives.

For Wang, that metagoal was AGI, long before the term became popular. He described it in high school as an algorithm that solves any problem, since the terminology didnt exist yet. Chens metagoal was different but complementary: optimizing everything, from engineering problems to real-world systems.

It was an instant alignment, Chen said.

Today, the two still ask every single person they hire what their metagoals are.

Chen founded the schools drone club, petitioned administrators to let students fly quadcopters on campus, and spent hours tinkering in robotics labs. The two were the kids who stayed late, broke hardware, and kept experimenting.



It was a great time, Chen said.

When college admissions rolled around, Chen was accepted to Carnegie Mellon and Georgia Tech  the obvious, prestigious paths for a gifted robotics student. Wang, meanwhile, had been admitted to Tsinghua University, Chinas elite engineering powerhouse, often described as Chinas MIT.

Chen visited the Beijing campus, toured the labs, and made a decision few American high schoolers would: He followed Wang to Tsinghua.

The transition wasnt easy. The coursework was intense, and the two struggled, even flunking some classes.

Most of the Chinese kids are really  I hate to be stereotypical  but theyre really good at studying, Chen laughed. Theyre really sharp.

Still, he was surprised by how supportive his professors were once they learned what he and Wang were building.

They were like, Hey, I know this thing youre trying to make  its a very good thing. I actually believe in the concept of AGI, he said.

By then, nearly everyone in Tsinghuas Brain Cognition and Brain-Inspired Intelligence Lab knew what the two undergraduates were attempting: a new approach to machine intelligence that challenged the dominant assumptions of the field.

A 3 a.m. breakthrough

It was at Tsinghuas brain lab where they developed the Hierarchical Reasoning Model (HRM), the architecture they believe can surpass transformers entirely.

If OpenChat was their proof of concept, HRM was the moonshot they had been building towards. And the moment it proved itself came, appropriately, in the dead of night.

On a random early morning in June this year, at 3 a.m., Chen and Wang stared at the benchmark results returned by their small experimental model. Their tiny HRM prototype  just 27 million parameters, microscopic compared to GPT-4 or Claude  was outperforming systems from OpenAI, Anthropic, and DeepSeek on tasks designed specifically to measure reasoning.

It solved Sudoku-Extreme, found optimal passages through 3030 mazes, and achieved startlingly high performance on the ARC-AGI benchmark  all without chain-of-thought prompting or brute-force scaling.

It was crazy, Chen said. Just with a change in the architecture, it gave the model a lot of what we call reasoning depth.

Unlike a transformer, which predicts the next word based on statistical patterns, HRM uses a two-part recurrent structure modeled loosely on how the human brain mixes slow, deliberate thought with fast reflexive reactions. The system can plan, dissect problems, and reason using internal logic rather than imitation. Its not guessing, Chen said. Its thinking.

Chen says their models hallucinate far less than traditional LLMs and already match state-of-the-art performance in time-series forecasting tasks like weather prediction, quantitative trading, and medical monitoring.

They are now working on scaling HRM into a general-purpose reasoning engine, with a simple but radical thesis: that AGI wont come from bigger transformers, but smaller, more efficient architecture. Todays frontier models are massive  in some cases, hundreds of billions of parameters  but even their creators admit they struggle with reasoning, planning, and multi-step problem decomposition, Chen said.

He believes that limitation is structural, not temporary.

You can stack more layers, he says. But youre still hitting the limits of a probability model.

Sapient is now preparing to open a U.S. office within the next month, raise additional funding, and maybe change their name to begin deploying the second version of their model. The founders believe continuous learning  the ability for a model to absorb new experiences safely, without retraining from scratch  is the next major frontier.

AGI is the holy grail of AI Chen says. And he expects it to emerge in the next decade.

One day, were going to have an AI thats smarter than humans, Chen said. Guan and I always say its like Pandoras box, if were not going to make it, someone else will. So we hope that were going to be the first one to make that happen.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
Rarely does an industrial accident develop into a major tourist attraction.

But when a Soviet exploratory team drilled for natural gas in Turkmenistan more than 50 years ago, they are said to have set off a chain reaction that created the Darvaza Gas Crater  a giant, fiery hole that eventually became the countrys most sought-after sight.

Also called the Gates of Hell and the Shining of Karakum, the phenomenon is caused by methane-fueled flames escaping from scores of vents along the crater floor and walls. Standing around the rim, you can feel intense heat emanating from the hole. Its especially dramatic at night, fiery tongues blazing beneath a starry sky.

Flanked by dunes and rocky outcrops in a remote part of the Karakum Desert, the crater is the top stop on almost every tour of the Central Asian nation.

When travelers first started flocking to Darvaza, there were no visitor services or amenities, and you had to bring everything you needed for an overnight stay. Nowadays there are three permanent camps with overnight accommodation in yurts or tents, as well as meals and motorized transportation to the crater rim for those who dont want to walk.

The crater is roughly 230 feet (70 meters) wide and 100 feet (30 meters) deep, with vertical walls that drop sharply into a rocky debris field scattered across the bottom. A safety fence was added in 2018 to keep visitors from venturing too close to the blazing sinkhole.

Garagum is one of three permanent camps located near the crater. - Joe Yogerst

Its a collapsed gas cave, which sounds about as interesting as an old gas oven, says author Ged Gillmore, who wrote about the crater in Stans By Me: A Whirlwind Tour Through Central Asia.

But theres this eeriness about it, and I actually found it quite creepy.

However, the crater may not be around much longer, at least not in its fiery form. On several occasions, the Turkmenistan government has mentioned the possibility of somehow sealing the crater. Meanwhile, those who have been visiting Darvaza for years say the flames are much smaller than they once were.

I would say its only burning at around 40% of the level I first witnessed there in 2009, says Dylan Lupine, whose UK-based Lupine Travel was one of the pioneers in bringing tourists to Turkmenistan.

A much larger area of the crater had flames burning in it back then. There are less now, and they are not as high as they were.

Standing on the edge of the crater, a local guide who wished to remain anonymous because he wasnt authorized to speak with the media, confirms the flames have been getting lower and lower over the last seven years and his 40 or so visits to Darvaza.

Before there were more flames than now, probably because the gas pocket is wearing out, he says.

But that doesnt diminish the allure of a hybrid manmade/natural wonder thats especially amazing when a sandstorm blows in and obscures everything but flickering fire reaching up from the darkened pit below.

Mysterious origins

No one is quite sure when the gas crater opened, apparently because the Soviet-era reports are missing, incomplete or still confidential.

Theres a lot of controversy, a lot of disagreement over how it started, says George Kourounis, a Canadian adventurer and television presenter whos the only known person to have explored inside the gas crater.

I dont even know what to believe. Theres so many stories and mythology with this place. Its crazy.

According to Kourounis, the most common theory is that the crater formed in 1971 and was lit on fire shortly thereafter.

But while I was in Turkmenistan, we had two old school geologists from the government come out to the crater with us, and what they told me was that the crater actually formed at some point in the 1960s and was bubbling away with mud and gas for quite some time and didnt get ignited until the 1980s.

How the gas first ignited is another mystery.

Some say it was a hand grenade, Kourounis adds. Some say the Soviets just threw a match in. Ive heard a story that a drunk farmer drove his tractor into there at some point.

The local guide floats another theory: There was a nearby village in those days, and Ive heard they set the crater on fire because they didnt want the smell ruining life or the poisonous gas becoming harmful to the health of the villages. They thought it would burn out in a couple of weeks.

The "Gates of Hell" is a four-hour drive north of the Turkmenistan capital, Ashgabat. - Iwanami_Photos/iStockphoto/Getty Images

In addition to just experiencing the thrill of plunging into a flaming crater, Kourounis was on a National Geographic-funded scientific mission to find any lifeforms that could survive in that environment, especially those that could yield clues as to what we might find under similar conditions on other planets.

During a 17-minute descent in 2013  inside an aluminized suit with a Kevlar harness and Technora ropes of the type used on NASA Mars missions  he collected soil samples for the Extreme Microbiome Project. Later analysis revealed simple organisms, like bacteria and thermophiles, that are somehow able to survive the extreme temperatures inside the crater.

Reaching Darvaza

The gas crater lies a four-hour drive north of Ashgabat, the national capital. Four-wheel drive is highly recommended for a journey along the rough two-lane highway and sandy desert roads that lead to Darvaza.

Wandering camels are a frequent sight along the way.

Other than general stores in Bokurdak and Erbent, remote desert villages along the highway, theres nowhere to stock up on provisions after leaving Ashgabat.

Darwaza Camp is the most upscale of the three overnight options. Located around a five-minute walk from the crater rim, the camp features yurts with beds and chairs, a shaded dining area and porta-potty/outhouse-style toilets.

On the opposite side of the crater, Garagum Camp offers yurts with futon-like floor pads spread across traditional Turkmenistan carpets, solar-powered interior lights and evening barbecue meals served on outdoor tables.

Garagum lies about a 10-minute walk from the crater rim and even closer to a small rocky mount where visitors can snatch a birds-eye-view of the Gates of Hell.

Arriving at Darvaza at night is definitely the best, says Gillmore. Its this incredible thing that you first see from a distance after hours of driving across the desert. Theres no other illumination anywhere near it and you do feel like youre really at the gates of hell.

Nearby are two other accidental craters  formed around the same time and by similar drilling gone wrong  that are just as large as Darvaza but not nearly as spectacular.

Near the intersection of the tarmac highway and the sandy road to Darvaza is a gas crater with much smaller flames. Farther south along the highway in the direction of Ashgabat is a water-filled crater with gas bubbles but no flames.

The crater has been burning for decades, but repeat visitors say the flames are less intense these days. - darkydoors/iStockphoto/Getty Images

Will the gas crater vanish?

For years theres been talk that the Turkmenistan government will transform Darvaza into a natural gas production site by extinguishing the flames.

In 2022, the state-run Neytralny Turkmenistan newspaper reported that the president had asked his cabinet to consult with scientists to find a way to extinguish the flames and close the site to tourism.

Among the reasons cited for closing the crater were the loss of a valuable natural resource, environmental damage and health concerns.

Since then, theres been much discussion about the craters predicted demise but nothing concrete to prove the government is going to dampen the flames anytime soon.

Some say the government has already drilled a nearby exploratory well that has siphoned off a considerable amount of gas that was escaping through the crater and caused the level of the flames to drop significantly.

Its only rumors, says the local guide, who adds there is still nothing official about the termination. And he wonders how it might be done.

They can fill it in with cement or foam, but the gas will just escape elsewhere. We dont know how it will happen or if it will happen.

CNN Travel has reached out to government officials for comment on the future of the crater.

Lupine, who visited the site again earlier this year, agrees that Darvaza may be doomed.

The locals believe this is going to be a renewed attempt to finally put out the flames, says Lupine. There is a lot of concern amongst the locals, as they believe if the crater is extinguished then tourism to Turkmenistan will take a huge hit and many of them will be out of work.

For the time being, the Darvaza Gas Crater continues to amaze visitors who make the long and arduous trek across the Karakum Desert to view Turkmenistans accidental natural wonder.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
by Gregory

Myanmar's military junta has released more than 3,000 political prisoners and dropped charges against another 5,500 people. Friends and relatives of the prisoners rejoiced yesterday, but it is also a threat to the population, who find themselves forced to vote in order to avoid arrest. This has been confirmed by the military itself: more than 700 prisoners will only be released on parole and risk returning to prison at the first sign of dissent.

Yangon (AsiaNews) - Myanmar's military junta yesterday granted amnesty to more than 3,000 political prisoners and dropped charges against another 5,500 people who had been charged with spreading comments critical of the Burmese regime.

The release of about 200 prisoners took place yesterday at the notorious Insein prison in Yangon: at least eight buses of prisoners were greeted by friends and relatives who had been waiting since dawn, and several photos were then posted online.

However, this is not a benevolent gesture or an attempt at reconciliation: the state broadcaster MRTV explained that the amnesty was granted to ensure that all eligible voters can vote freely and fairly in the upcoming democratic multi-party general elections. International bodies and humanitarian organisations have repeatedly pointed out that these are in fact sham elections because the military junta does not control the entire territory (in several parts of the country, the army is still clashing with the militias that make up the resistance) and the participation of the opposition has never been contemplated.

Dozens of political parties, including Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (who, at 80, remains in prison, but in the military capital, Naypyidaw), had already been dissolved in 2023.

Following the announcement of the elections, which will be held in several stages starting on 28 December, the junta has intensified its attacks on the resistance and introduced new laws criminalising activities that hinder the electoral process.

Yesterday, specifically, the National Defence and Security Council authorised the release of 3,085 prisoners convicted under Section 505(a) of the Penal Code, which punishes the dissemination of false information or comments that generate fear among the population.

This is a law that has been widely used against anyone who has criticised the regime since the 2021 coup. According to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, 30,031 people have been arrested in the last four years, of whom 22,708 are still in detention.

Yesterday's amnesty should therefore be seen as a threat to the civilian population: vote or face imprisonment. This is a very difficult position for Burmese citizens to support: many refuse to support the junta but feel they have no alternative.

The elections, especially if they have a high turnout, serve the Naypyidaw regime to consolidate its government and normalise relations with other countries.

China, a supporter of the coup junta, has long expressed its support for the electoral process, and several other countries in the region interested in doing business in Myanmar, including India, have proposed sending international observers.

This is not the first time that the military regime has granted broad amnesties, usually on the occasion of important Buddhist holidays, to consolidate its power: in January, nearly 6,000 prisoners were released, but only about 600 were political prisoners.

This time too, 724 of the 3,085 prisoners released yesterday were explicitly granted conditional release. This means that in the event of new offences, they will be returned to prison, where they will have to serve the new sentence together with the remaining sentence. Again, this would not be the first time that the generals have returned prisoners to their cells after releasing them.
by Maria Casadei

At last week's summit in Johannesburg, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented a six-point agenda, ranging from coordination against drug trafficking and terrorism to a new framework for critical minerals, as well as regulations on artificial intelligence. Relations with Japan, Italy, and Canada have strengthened. But while New Delhi claims a central role for emerging economies, tensions with Beijing flared up again after yet another incident related to the disputed territory of Arunachal Pradesh.

Johannesburg (AsiaNews)  The latest G20 summit ended last Sunday in Johannesburg, South Africa, during which Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented an ambitious agenda to strengthen India's role as a voice for the Global South.

The six proposed initiatives include an initiative on Countering the drug-terror Nexus, the creation of a Global Healthcare Response Team ready to respond to emergencies, and an Africa Skills Multiplier programme.

Modi also suggested setting up of a Global Traditional Knowledge Repository, an Open Satellite Data Partnership, and a Critical Minerals Circularity initiative

The summit's final communique, the Leaders Statement, announced the launch of a G20 Critical Minerals Framework, with the aim of using critical minerals to drive sustainable development and inclusive economic growth and ensure that producer countries, particularly those in the Global South, can maximise the benefits derived from their resources.

The statement emphasises that, in a rapidly transforming economy, demand for critical minerals is expected to increase and that the benefits associated with these resources are not yet fully realised.

Producer countries face challenges related to underinvestment, limited value addition and beneficiation, a lack of technologies, as well as socioeconomic and environmental issues.

Modi emphasised that strengthening the international community also requires more equitable representation of southern countries. As part of this, India has pushed for reform of the UN Security Council, calling for a broader and more representative composition.

In fact, the Leaders Declaration reads: We pledge to reform the Security Council through a transformative reform that aligns it with the realities and demands of the 21st century. We call for an enlarged Security Council composition that improves the representation of the underrepresented and unrepresented regions and groups, such as Africa, Asia-Pacific and Latin America and the Caribbean.

Regarding technology, the Indian leader reiterated the need for a global compact on artificial intelligence (AI) to prevent abuse and distortions. Invoking the principles of human oversight, transparency, and safety-by-design, he called for strict limits on the use of AI in deepfakes, criminal activities, and terrorism. For India, AI management must remain human-centred, with verifiable systems and final decisions entrusted to people.

On a bilateral level, Modi has consolidated important relations with Japan, Italy, and Canada.

With Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi (meeting Modi for the first time since taking office), priority sectors are innovation, defence, economic and talent exchanges, to be implemented through existing agreements, ranging from semiconductors to clean energy and artificial intelligence. Takaichi confirmed Japan's support for the AI Summit that India will host in 2026.

Together with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Modi announced a new joint initiative to counter-terrorist financing, and strengthening cooperation in international bodies such as the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and the Global Counterterrorism Forum (GCTF).

The meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, described as "very productive," ended with cooperation agreements in the defence and space sectors and agreements on trade, investment, technology, energy, and training. Under Carneys predecessor, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, relations between India and Canada were frosty.

In his closing speech, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa acknowledged the contributions of India, Brazil, and Indonesia in shaping the summit's agenda. The absence of the United States from the summit left more room for the so-called emerging powers.

While much of the Indian press praised India's role at the meeting, some commentators saw India's ambitions as a simple attempt to assert control over resources, particularly rare earths and new technologies. This position risks clashing with China's, despite the diplomatic rapprochement between New Delhi and Beijing in recent months.

Tensions between the two Asian neighbours have recently flared again due to a territorial dispute. Last week, a woman with an Indian passport travelling from the United Kingdom (where she resides) to Japan via Shanghai was detained at the citys airport and questioned by Chinese immigration officials because her passport listed Arunachal Pradesh as her birthplace.

Both India and China claim the territory, which Beijing calls "South Tibet" (Zangnan).

The woman, interviewed by Indian media after she was released thanks to the intervention of consular officials, said that Chinese officials singled her out saying that her passport was invalid because Arunachal Pradesh is part of China, not India.

Relations between China and India, which had improved in recent months, now appear to be going in the opposite direction over certain unresolved issues.

INDIAN MANDALA IS THE ASIANEWS NEWSLETTER DEDICATED TO INDIA. WOULD YOU LIKE TO RECEIVE IT EVERY FRIDAY? TO SUBSCRIBE, CLICK HERE.
by Giorgio Bernardelli

In Penang, 800 delegates from churches across the continent gathered for a pilgrimage of hope in the Jubilee year. Cardinal Tagle: like the Magi, we reject the despair of today's Herods. Archbishop Simon Poh of Kuching: We are a minority. But the Lord asks us too not to shut ourselves in our churches and go out to serve our brothers and sisters.

Penang (AsiaNews) - If Jesus returned to Asia today, we would find him waiting for a crowded train in Mumbai or in the traffic of Manila, among migrants and young people shaking their cellphones. He would say to us: I remember this place, I was born here. But wouldn't he find us too busy, divided, afraid? Cardinal Charles Maung Bo, Archbishop of Yangon, suggested this image to the more than 800 delegates from across the continent gathered since yesterday in Penang, Malaysia, for the Great Pilgrimage of Hope, the second Asian Missionary Conference promoted until Sunday 30 November by the Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences together with the local archdiocese.

At the 80 tables around which bishops, priests, religious and a large number of lay people from more than 30 countries are gathered, experiences are being exchanged on how this presence - regardless of the size of their communities - is alive in every corner of the continent. There is also discussion about the path proposed by Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, pro-prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelisation, in his introductory report yesterday afternoon. Starting from the perspective of the Magi, he drew on the Gospel icon chosen by the Asian Bishops' Conferences in Bangkok in 2022 during the Assembly commemorating the 50th anniversary of the FABC.

The Magi came to Bethlehem from the East and returned to their homeland by another route. Their pilgrimage, Cardinal Tagle explained, can only be fully understood when viewed alongside Herods journey. The Magi represent those who come from a context considered pagan, guided by a prophecy written on fragile parchment, yet able to read in the star a visiona goal toward which to walk. In contrast stands a king surrounded by experts in Scripture who, absorbed in themselves, have become blind to signs and deaf to the Word. It is a pilgrimage of hope, against the despair of those who cling to power and even kill children to keep it, the Filipino cardinal remarked, linking yesterdays wounds with those that scar todays world.

But it was Jesus who showed the Magi another way, Tagle emphasized. He chose a path different from Herod and the kings of this world. The Son of God emptied himself to embrace human freedom. He was a teacher with nowhere to lay his head. He called disciples whom no rabbi would have accepted. He taught truth, yet was the target of lies and false testimony. He was enthroned on a cross, accused of being an impostor. And he continues to live in the hungry, the thirsty, the homeless, the prisoners, the strangers. Jesus walks a different pathyet he is the way, the truth, and the life.

How, then, can we walk this path in Asia today? This is the question the Churches gathered in Penang are addressing, with a realistic view of their own condition and of a continent that is home to three-fifths of humanity. Asia is not a museum; it is a place of creativity and hard work, summarized Archbishop George Palliparampil of Miao, president of the FABC Commission for Evangelisation. Asia is a global hub for industry and commerce, but it also faces serious challenges: environmental degradation, labor exploitation, geopolitical tensions, and economic disparities. It includes some of the richest and poorest nations in the world.

This jubilee moment in Penang, Palliparampil added, is an occasion for the Churches to thank God by showing love and appreciation for our faith and cultures. At the same time, we commit ourselves to respond to the Lords call to make the world a better place: to create a social order where everyone has a place, where business is conducted with integrity, land is cultivated to feed people, and medical care heals rather than serves profit. We will respect every religion and celebrate every festival. We will not indulge in superiority, but will foster a genuine spirit of solidarity and equality.

Significantly, the opening session of the Congress was attended by Malaysias Minister of National Unity, Aaron Argo Dagan, who highlighted the pluralistic nature of his countrya nation of 35 million people, comprising over 200 ethnic subgroups and embracing Muslims, Christians, Buddhists, Hindus, Sikhs, and others living together in mutual respect. This diversity, he said, is not just a characteristic of our nation. It is its strengththe source of resilience and creativity.

Being a minorityjust 3% of the continents populationis not a limitation but a vocation. If the first Asian Missionary Congress in 2006 focused on telling the story of Jesus to the peoples of Asia, today the challenge is to dream and point out the path the Gospel offers. This vision sees other religions not as rivals but as brothers and sisters of other faiths. Archbishop Simon Poh, president of the Bishops Conference of Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei, stressed this in his address on walking together as peoples of Asia: We know there are places where the Church faces discrimination and persecution. We are a minority, and we acknowledge this. But we are still baptized and sent to all. The Lord asks us to leave our churches and go into the streetsto leave our comfort zones for the peripheries, to serve him in our brothers and sisters.